The Sound 04-30-26

Branford, North Branford & Northford

Vol. XXX Iss. 18

Parade Route Shifts Due to Main Street Work

Staff Report

One of the town’s most visible annual traditions will take a different path this year, as ongoing construction in the center of town forces changes to the Memorial Day parade route.

The 2026 Branford Memorial Day Parade will take place Monday, May 25, with open-

ing ceremonies and the parade start relocated to South Main Street behind Town Hall to accommodate the Main Street Reconstruction project.

Opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m. The parade will proceed west on South Main Street to Main Street and North Harbor Street before returning to the starting point.

major construction began April 1 on a sweeping overhaul of Main Street, a project that town officials have described as a complete reconstruction of the downtown corridor.

Supply Pond fish ladder, which supports river herring migrating from Long Island Sound to Linsley Pond.

PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ TheSound

Jakub Schreiner: Building a Better Space

By Pam Young

Correspondent

As Jakub Schreiner approaches a major milestone in scouting, his final project is coming together just in time.

Northford resident Jakub Schreiner, a senior at the Sound School in New Haven, has spent the past several weeks planning and organizing his Eagle Scout service project—replacing a set of aging outdoor benches at his school with new ones designed for daily use.

“It is a big deal,” Jakub says. “You have to get the project done before you turn 18.”

Jakub, a member of Boy Scout Troop 463 since 2019, is currently a Life Scout—the final rank before Eagle. Reaching that level requires earning 21 merit badges and completing a service project that demonstrates leadership, planning, and community impact.

For Jakub, the idea for his project came after an earlier plan fell through.

Person of the Week

Originally, he had hoped to work with a food pantry in New Haven, but when that did not materialize, he turned his attention to a need he saw every day at school.

“The current benches we have outside are not safe in my opinion,” he says. “I would not want to sit on any of them for longer than a half hour.”

From there, the project quickly took shape. Jakub set out to raise funds, source materials, and organize volunteers—all while working within the tight timeframe required to complete the project.

“You have to be a manager, gathering people, being a leader, and completing the goal,” he says. “It is about how and where you get the materials from, how much

it will cost, who you are getting help from, and first aid considerations.”

After launching a GoFundMe campaign and reaching out through school and community networks, the response exceeded his expectations.

“Within 24 hours, the amount of money I raised shot up to $2,100,” he says. “The support from the community kept growing and I ended up around $2,690 in donations, with 45 people donating.”

The funding allowed him to purchase five prefabricated benches, along with the materials needed to assemble and finish them, including stain, brushes, and protective equipment. He also plans to use the remaining funds to add small plaques.

In recent weeks, Jakub has been coordinating volunteers and organizing work sessions to assemble and install the benches on campus.

See Jakub page 7

Photo courtesy of Jakub Schreiner

Jakub Schreiner, a Northford resident and Life Scout, is completing an

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Lions Club Marks 75 Years of Service

Staff Report

The Branford Lions Club will celebrate 75 years of service to the community this May with an anniversary gala reflecting on decades of local involvement and fundraising.

The club, chartered May 21, 1951, was founded by a group of Branford men committed to community service. The 75th anniversary will be marked with a “Roaring Twenties”-themed dinner dance Wednesday, May 20, from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Woodwinds on School Ground Road.

The event is described by organizers as a nod to past club traditions, including the longtime “Sweetheart Ball” once held each February at the Branford Armory.

In addition to dinner and dancing, the evening will include awards recognizing individuals for community service and contributions to sight-related causes.

Over the decades, the Branford Lions Club has supported a wide range of local and national efforts, with a longstanding focus on vision-related initiatives. Early fundraising efforts included door-to-door broom sales, while later events grew to include the club’s annual Beerfest, which eventually evolved into the Branford Festival in 1985.

At its height, the Beerfest raised tens of thousands of dollars annually for eye research and community programs. A version of that effort continues today through

the club’s Oktoberfest event, held each fall at New England Brewing Company.

The club has also contributed to a number of local projects, including painting the original Community House, building Lion’s Park at Connecticut Hospice, and rebuilding the grandstand at Hammer Field.

Funds raised by the organization support international disaster relief, eye research, and services for individuals who are sight- or hearing-impaired, as well as local programs such as the Branford Food Bank, Community Dining Services, and Feed Branford Kids.

In addition, members participate in eye screening initiatives, including KidSight, and collect used eyeglasses for refurbishment and distribution to those in need.

Membership in the club has fluctuated over the years, reaching more than 100 members during its peak. The organization currently has 56 members and continues to meet from September through June, with most dinner meetings held at La Luna Ristorante on the first Monday of each month.

The anniversary event is open to the public. Tickets are $75 per person and are available through members of the Branford Lions Club and the organization’s website. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/BranfordLionsClub or www.lionsbfdct.org.

The Walter Dymarczyk Memorial VFW Post 12106 in Branford seeks new members. All eligible veterans are welcome to join the post members on the first Thursday at 6 p.m. for food, followed by the meeting at 7 p.m. The Walter Dymarczyk Memorial VFW Post 12106 is located at 99 Indian Neck Avenue, Branford. For more information, contact 203-483-7413 or fstanowski@hotmail.com.

The Branford Veterans Parade Committee and Francis Walsh Intermediate School are sponsoring the Captain Thomas Yester Memorial Day Essay Contest for students in grades 5 through 8. Students are invited to submit essays on the theme “What Memorial Day Means to Me.” Ten students will be recognized for their entries, and the top two essays will be presented during the opening ceremonies for the Branford Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 25. The Branford Community Foundation and ASCEND Bank will sponsor the contest and award cash prizes to the top 10 selected entries. Essays must be submitted by Thursday, May 7. Additional contest details are available through Francis Walsh Intermediate School. The 2026 Branford Memorial Day Parade opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m. on South Main Street behind Branford Town Hall. For more information, email Ray Ingraham at ingrada@gmail.com or Mario Ricozzi at Mario.ricozzi.2000@gmail.com.

New Members Welcome at VFW Post

Memorial Day Essay Contest Open to Branford Students

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor Ext. 6141

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Alicia Gomez Assistant Editor

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Eric O’Connell Staff Reporter

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Aaron Rubin Staff Reporter

Editorial Staff

203-483-2858

www.allusionssalonandboutique.com

Saturday, May 9th, 2026

10am - 3pm

Downtown

Main St. Branford

More than 50 Connecticut Authors representing a wide variety of genres: Ken Engelman ~ Chad Betz ~ Elissa Bass ~ Richard Friswell

Regina Kyle ~ Marc Youngquist ~ Lisa O’Connor ~ Archer Atwood

Leigh Allen ~ Maria Briganti ~ Frank Jodaitis ~ Ania Jastreboff

Stephanie Robison / Jessica Haight ~ Corbin Kime ~ Bob Crelin

Lisa Hughes ~ Paige Lawrence ~ Daniel Chambrello ~ Kristen Ferencz

Sally Bahner ~ Kenneth Coulson ~ Joseph Briganti ~ Sally Green

D Walsh Gilbert ~ Allia Zobel Nolan ~ Jen Payne ~ Ralene Goff

Caleb Rand ~ Mary Keeting ~Heidi Rocha ~ Amanda Fee

Friends of the Blackstone Library ~ Kelly Jarvis ~ Chris Abbott

Jack Matthews ~ Bill Meyers ~ Jerry Augustine ~ Jacqueline Ford

Greg Gilmartin ~ Krys Rayne ~Peter J. Marzano ~ Mark Perlman

Randee Mack ~ Sarah Branson ~ Tony Renzoni ~ Greg Dillon ~ Jacqueline

Killelea ~ Barbara McClane ~ Erica Summers ~ Ma’ayan Harel-Sibelman

Lisa Aceerbo ~Jordan Lopez ~ Ariel Rae / R.A. Desilets ~ Kiersten Schiffer

Dana Buckmir ~ Sarah P. Blanchard ~Jim DiNapoli ~ Hal Johnson

Timothy Craig ~ Janet Lamond ~ Mary Jane Ruffo

https://sites.google.com/view/branfordbookfest/home https://sites.google.com/view/branfordbookfest/home

https://sites.google.com/view/branfordbookfest/home?authuser=0 https://sites.google.com/view/branfordbookfest/home

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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.

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Obituaries

Obituary

Patricia

Robertson Branford

Patricia Flanagan Robertson of Branford passed away on April 9, 2026. Born in New Haven on March 16, 1931, she was the daughter of Joseph and Mildred Kennedy Flanagan.

She was a proud graduate of Hillhouse High School, Albertus Magnus College, and Southern Connecticut State University.

Pat was predeceased by her beloved husband, William Robertson. She was the loving mother of Kevin (Nancy, dec.) Robertson, Carol (Mike) Schmidt, Bruce (Cheryl) Robertson, and Bill (Caryl) Robertson. She cherished her nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and 24 nieces and nephews. Pat was also predeceased by her siblings, Joseph Flanagan, Marilyn Mercier, and Capt. Alan B. Flanagan, U.S.N.

Pat was a retired educator who taught at Stony Creek Elementary

School and Frances Walsh Intermediate School. Her faith was very important to her, and for many years, she was a daily communicant of St. Therese Church, a eucharistic minister, and a religious education instructor. She also volunteered with the Branford Food Pantry. Her passions were faith, family, swimming, reading, traveling, and walking in Stony Creek. She had a competitive nature and — even into her 90s — could beat just about anyone in a game of ping pong or pick-up sticks. She will be remembered as our family matriarch who always brought us together with love and laughter. The family gives special thanks to Pat’s caregivers, Monet, Melissa, Rachael, and her granddaughter, Rachel, as well as to the staff at Hospice in Branford for the exceptional care she received. A memorial Mass was held on April 25 at St. Therese Church in Stony Creek. Donations may be made to the Branford Food Pantry, 30 Harrison Ave., Branford, CT 06405.

Legacy Theatre will hold in-person auditions for its upcoming production of The Wizard of Oz. Performers are encouraged to review all audition information on the theater’s website prior to scheduling an audition. Rehearsals begin Monday, June 15. Performances will run from Thursday, July 9, through Sunday, Aug. 2. The production is directed by Hannah Ryan, with choreography by Eric Santagata. Audition requirements include a headshot, resume, and a brief song in the style of the show. Optional materials may include a short monologue, special skill, or personality showcase. Video submissions, approximately three minutes in length, will also be accepted. Actors should be local or have access to local housing. Both Equity and non-Equity contracts are available. Materials may be submitted via email to auditions@legacytheatrect.org. For more information, visit legacytheatre.org.

Free Business and Leadership Program

Next Girl Up, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young women, is partnering with the Soundview Family YMCA to host a free 10-week business and leadership program every Wednesday through May 6 (no session April 15). The sessions take place from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Soundview YMCA, 628 East Main Street, Branford. The program introduces students to marketing, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and career exploration. Designed for girls in grades 9 to 12, Next Girl Up helps participants build confidence, communication skills, and practical knowledge rarely taught in traditional classrooms. Weekly sessions feature interactive lessons, group discussions, and real-world case studies. No prior experience or interest in business is required. The program is free and open to high school students in the community. For more information or to register, visit nextgirlup.org/soundview-ymca-february2026.

Legacy Theatre Announces Auditions for The Wizard of Oz

Jakub Schreiner: Building a Better Space

Continued from page 2

“I plan to have a work party where anyone who wants to help can, as long as they are willing to put in the effort,” he says.

Once completed, the project will be submitted for review as part of the Eagle Scout approval process.

Along the way, Jakub says he has learned how critical communication is when leading a project.

“It is not easy to manage projects involving multiple people,” he says. “Everyone has to be on the same page.”

Even with the pressure of the timeline, there have been parts of the process he has enjoyed.

“I think I will enjoy staining most because I have always liked to paint rooms and objects,” he says.

At the Sound School, the project has been well received by administrators, staff, and students, many of whom regularly use the outdoor spaces.

“The Sound School is known for having an outdoor focus and people are always using the benches we have now,” Jakub says. “They all think it is a great idea.”

Jakub’s path in scouting began with some hesitation. Encouraged by a friend,

he attended a Troop 463 meeting and quickly found a sense of connection.

“There was a sense of brotherhood, like a community,” he says.

After stepping back during the COVID19 pandemic, he returned more committed, advancing through the ranks while contributing to community projects including installing flagpoles, building a gazebo, and painting signs.

“All these different things benefit the community,” he says.

As graduation approaches, Jakub is still considering his next steps and has not yet decided where he will attend college or what he will study. He expects his time with Troop 463 will come to a close, but says the experience has shaped how he approaches community involvement.

“Stay involved with the community,” Jakub says. “Look at the needs and wants of it. This will influence how you have an impact.”

With his Eagle project nearing completion, Jakub is focused on finishing strong—bringing together months of planning and effort into a final result that will remain in use at the school for years to come.

Short-Term Residential Rental Registration Now Available

The Town of Branford announces that the Short-Term Residential Rental (STRR) Registration Application is now available online. Property owners who operate, or plan to operate, a short-term residential rental in Branford must complete the annual registration process in accordance with Chapter 199 of the Town Code. The application is available through the Town’s OpenGov portal at branfordct.portal.opengov.com. Annual permits are issued for the period of May 1 through April 30. Properties operating without a valid permit may be subject to enforcement action, including fines and permit revocation. For more information, email PlanningandZoning@branford-ct.gov.

Tax Relief for Veterans and Elderly or Totally Disabled Homeowners

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

EDUCATION FUNDING

Story by Carol Andrecs

contentment with loud purrs. Oreo and Misty’s playful antics will provide your home with endless laughter. These two cuties have made it clear that they are inseparable and need to be adopted as a pair, preferably into a quiet home. Could you give them the love and nurturing they crave? For an appointment to meet these sweet sisters, stop by during our open

Orchard House Seeks Volunteers

Photo by Genevieve Ray

Sweet Sisters Need a Loving Home!

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

Orchard House Medical Adult Day Center, 421 Shore Drive, Branford, is seeking volunteers to have fun with local seniors. Volunteer positions are available on Monday through Saturday. For more information, contact 203-481-7110, ext. 104 or recreation@theorchardhouse.org.

Richard Lynch

Marisa Bellair

Steven Errante

Parade Route Shifts

Due to Main Street Work

Work will take place in phases along the roadway, beginning near Laurel Street and moving east toward Chestnut Street. The project is expected to continue through 2026, with additional work anticipated into early 2027 depending on weather and

The reconstruction will address longstanding infrastructure issues, including deteriorating pavement, aging underground elements such as buried trolley tracks, and drainage concerns that have

In addition to rebuilding the roadway, the project includes upgrades to sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting, and streetscape features. Plans also call for improvements designed to increase accessibility and pedestrian safety, along with new trafficcalming measures and enhanced stormwater management systems.

Town officials have said the goal of the project is to improve safety and mobility for all users of the roadway—including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and public transit riders—while modernizing the look and function of the town center.

Because of the scope of the work, residents and visitors can expect periodic dis-

ruptions, including changes to traffic patterns, detours, and impacts to events held in the downtown area as construction progresses.

Despite those changes, organizers say the Memorial Day parade and ceremony will continue as planned, maintaining a longstanding tradition of honoring those who died in military service.

This year’s parade will be led by grand marshal Colonel Chris Beckert (U.S. Army, Retired), a Branford resident who served more than 30 years in the military, including multiple operational tours.

As part of the event, the Branford Veterans Parade Committee and Francis Walsh Intermediate School will again host the Captain Thomas Yester Memorial Day Essay Contest. Students in grades 5 through 8 are invited to submit essays on the theme “What Memorial Day Means to Me.”

Ten students will be recognized, with the top two entries selected to present their essays during the opening ceremonies. The contest is sponsored by the Branford Community Foundation and ASCEND Bank, with cash prizes awarded to the top 10 entries. Essays are due May 7.

ESTATE OF Sherri L. Fiordelisi, AKA Sherri Lynn Fiordelisi, AKA Sherri Fiordelisi (26-00119)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated April 13, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Gail Wright-Gallant c/o GERALD MICHAEL GALLANT, LAW OFFICE OF GERALD M. GALLANT LLC, 26 CHERRY STREET, MILFORD, CT 06460

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF BRANFORD

WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY (WPCA)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) of the Town of Branford will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Joe Trapasso Community House, 46 Church St, Branford, CT to receive public comment on the following:

1. Change in Billing: A proposal to combine the Real Estate Tax bill and the WPCA Sewer Utility bill into a single, all-in-one bill payable in two installments—July 1 and January 1.

At said hearing, all persons will have the right to be heard and written communications will be received. A copy of the proposal is on file at the Branford Tax Department. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Tax Department at (203) 315-0672.

Dated at Branford, CT, this 22nd day of April 2026.

David Steinhardt, Chairperson, Water Pollution Control Authority

Town Names April ‘Branford Volunteer Month’

The Town of Branford has designated April as Branford Volunteer Month for the second consecutive year, recognizing the contributions of residents who support the community through volunteer service. The proclamation highlights the role volunteers play in improving the lives of others and supporting local nonprofit organizations. BranfordVolunteers.org, launched in 2024 by the Branford Community Foundation in collaboration with the Blackstone Library and Antonym Partners, connects volunteers with local organizations in need of support. The free platform allows nonprofits to post volunteer opportunities and enables residents to connect directly with organizations. For more information, visit branfordvolunteers.org.

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

Shoreline Arts Alliance Announces IMAGES 2026 Call for Entries

Shoreline Arts Alliance is accepting submissions for IMAGES 2026, Connecticut’s oldest statewide photography competition. The jury-curated exhibition will be held Aug. 8–30 at Kehler Liddell Gallery, 873 Whalley Avenue, New Haven. Connecticut photographers of all skill levels are invited to submit digital entries through the Shoreline Arts Alliance website by Thursday, June 11, at noon. Submission guidelines and fees are available online. Founded in 1980, Shoreline Arts Alliance is a nonprofit organization that supports professional arts development through mentorship, networking, education, and community engagement. For more information, call 203-421-6739, email office@shorelinearts.org, or visit shorelinearts.org.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Deborah Lee Romero, AKA Debbie Lee Romero (26-00116)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated April 14, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Donna Marie Mishiwiec, 24 Meadow Circle Road, Branford, CT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Mark Francoeur (26-00077)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated April 8, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Jassa Canth, 59 Green Springs Drive, Madison, CT 06443

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ACTIONS

At the Regular meeting of the Branford Planning & Zoning Commission held on Thursday April 16, 2026 the following actions were taken:

1. Application PZ 26-1 Four Lot Resubdivision located at 76-82 Totoket Road–APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS.

2. Application PZ 26-9 Zoning Regulation Amendment -Amend Sec. 2.2 & 7.20.C- APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS WITH AN EFFECTIVE DATE OF MAY 1, 2026.

C. Andres, Chairperson

F. Russo Secretary

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Anthony N. Esposito

(26-00121)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated April 13, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Marc Esposito c/o GRIFFIN BOTTOMLEY, GESMONDE, PIETROSIMONE, & SGRIGNARI, LLC, 3127 WHITNEY A VENUE, HAMDEN, CT 06518

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF BRANFORD

BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT 06405 DECISION NOTICE

The Branford Zoning Board of Appeals met Tuesday April 21, 2026 by Zoom technology at 7:00 p.m. to conduct Public Hearings on the following applications and the following decisions were made:

New Business:

ZBA 26-7 Robert Carroll - (Applicant & Owner) 44 Limewood Avenue – GRANTED

Other Business:

March 17, 2026 Meeting Minutes - APPROVED

James Sette (Chairman)

Ordinance

Notice is hereby given of the enactment of Ordinance #272 (Council #2026-2), entitled “Building Department Permit Application & Delinquent Taxes ”, which adds a new chapter to the Code of North Branford.

A copy of the entire ordinance is available in the Town Clerk’s Office or on the town website. Below is a summary of the adopted ordinance for informational purposes.

This new proposed ordinance puts in writing a long established procedure requiring applicants for permits issued in the Building Department to obtain certification from the Tax Department that no delinquent taxes are due on the property before a permit is issued. Under certain conditions, a lessee may be exempt.

I hereby certify that the above is a true and exact copy of a summary of the ordinance passed by the Town Council of the Town of North Branford on April 21, 2026 in accordance with Section C4-6 of the North Branford Town Charter.

Effective date: This ordinance shall become effective twenty-one days after publication, to wit: May 21, 2026.

Lisa A. Valenti, MMC North Branford Town Clerk

LEGAL NOTICE - REVISED TOWN OF BRANFORD

The Planning & Zoning Commission of the Town of Branford, Connecticut hereby gives notice of Public Hearings to be held on Thursday May 7, 2026 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 PZ#26-12 Special Exception for an Accessory Apartment located at 51 Applewood Road. Michael Zanarini-Applicant & Owner.

2. Application PZ #26-13 Zoning Map Amendment –Change 7&9 Indian Neck Ave. from R3 to Mixed Use District. True North Capital LLC(Owner & Applicant of 7 Indian Neck Ave.) 9 Indian Neck Marine LLC- (Owner & Applicant of 9 Indian Neck Ave.).

3. Application PZ#26-14 Special Exception for an Oversized Accessory Structure located at 19-25 Fairlawn Avenue. Jonathan Morasutti- 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

Branford Softball Building Through Tough Start

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

Things have started off slowly in the first year under new leadership for the Branford softball team. The Branford Hornets have opened the season 1-9 and have struggled to put together full games to come out on top.

Offensively, Branford has been unable to cash in at the plate and once runners get on base. In fact, the Hornets finished the first five games 0-5 and were outscored 64-12 in that span. However, the Hornets were able to get a positive sign on April 17, when the team traveled to face Wilbur Cross.

The Hornets earned their first victory of the season by exploding offensively. Branford defeated Wilbur Cross 226. Their 22 runs were nearly double the amount they were able to score in their first five games combined.

Branford coach Theresa Kane said the victory was an impressive performance by the Hornets and one that the team needed after a tough start to the season. She said it showed the growth that Branford has made since the season started and the lessons learned from previous opponents.

“We have been focusing on fundamentals from the start, and we knew it would finally click over time,” Kane said.

The first-year Branford coach added that entering the season, the team was not focused on its win-loss record. The Hornets knew it could be a tough year, game in and game out, but their focus needed to be on individual development and team growth as they look to rebuild the Branford culture.

Kane said it’s about building structure in the program.

“This season is not about wins and losses, but about improving our core skillset and building good structure as a team,” she said. “We knew the wins would come with all the hard work we have been putting in.”

Since earning their first victory of the season, Branford has continued to struggle against its opponents. The Hornets have fallen to East Haven, Guilford, Sacred Heart Academy, and North Haven.

Those losses add to previous defeats against Westhill, West Haven, Jonathan Law, Amity, and Lauralton Hall to make their record 1-9. In the last four games, Branford has been outscored 46-24 and has also been shut out twice, by both Guilford and North Haven.

Branford found the most success against Sacred Heart

Donations Sought for GNHCP Tag Sale Fundraiser

Academy, as they only fell to SHA 11-10. Despite the continued struggles, Kane has been impressed by the growth of the team’s confidence and skillset.

Kane said she has noticed several players finding their voice and expanding their leadership skills.

“The team has grown both skill-wise and confidencewise,” Kane said. “Many girls are finding their leadership qualities and learning to use them, and finally believing that they’re the talented athletes that they are. And the exciting part is we still have a ways to go.”

The Greater New Haven Cat Project, Inc. (GNHCP) is seeking donations of gently used items for its annual tag sale fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, May 16. Donations will be accepted beginning April 25 at the GNHCP Center, 1874 Middletown Ave., Northford. Items may include household goods, collectibles, jewelry, garden furniture, toys, and more. Contributions will support GNHCP’s mission to help cats in need throughout Greater New Haven. Proceeds benefit GNHCP’s rescue, care, and community programs. For more information, contact 203-782-2287 or gnhcp1@gnhcp.org.

As the Hornets prepare for the second half of the season, they will be heading toward rematches with several of the teams they have already faced. Branford will face Jonathan Law, Guilford, Amity, Lauralton Hall, Wilbur Cross, and Sacred Heart Academy for a second time.

The second-time matchups will show how much Branford has grown and developed throughout the season. The first chance will be Friday, May 1, on the road at Jonathan Law at 3:45 p.m.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound

Sophia Rasile applies the tag at home plate during the Hornets’ season opener against Westhill.

North Branford Softball Streak Ends at Jonathan Law

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

North Branford has been a powerhouse in the Shoreline Athletic Conference over the last decade. With 10 consecutive conference titles and coming off the program’s first state title last season, the Thunderbirds have picked up exactly where they left off.

Through the first nine games, North Branford has dominated its opponents. It truly hasn’t been close. The Thunderbirds have outscored opponents 120-6 while pitching five shutouts.

North Branford has been rolling, but on April 25, the Thunderbirds hit their first roadblock of the season. The T-Birds were shut out by Jonathan Law and fell 1-0 in their first loss, snapping a nine-game winning streak.

North Branford coach Nicolas DeLizio was disappointed with the play, specifically the team’s approach at the plate. He said his players were unable to adjust throughout the game and, as a result, were unable to produce offensively.

North Branford falls to Jonathan Law 1-0 to snap nine-game win streak.

the plate, and they have to adjust better. They have to adjust more pitch by pitch than just next atbat to at-bat.”

The Thunderbirds believed they simply beat themselves, but have already taken lessons from the loss and are applying them moving forward.

So far this season, North Branford has received strong play from several athletes. Even in the loss, DeLizio praised senior pitcher and captain Lauren Vitarisi, calling her the rock of the team and a major factor in the success the team has had this year and during last year’s state title run.

He also highlighted senior shortstop Ava Ryszczyk for her ability to hit the ball, freshman second baseman Tessa DeLucia, and junior Alia Martone, who hit the go-ahead home run against Hale Ray.

“We have some good pieces in place here. We’re taking it game by game,” DeLizio said. “I’m very proud of how they have been doing, and hopefully we carry that and throw this one away and do what we need to do to repeat.”

“Today was a let-down game. We played Hale Ray yesterday, high emotions and a big conference rival, and today we couldn’t make the adjustments at the plate,” DeLizio said. “Their girl, us…We just wouldn’t make the adjustment.”

Schedules

BRANFORD

Friday, May 1: vs. Foran at 4 p.m.

DeLizio added that Jonathan Law’s pitcher threw a little slower and with spin, which resulted in North Branford getting ahead of

swinging at pitches in the dirt. Defensively, he felt the T-Birds pitched well and played well on the backend, except for one play that got away from them and resulted in the lone run.

have to score to win, and we didn’t do that today,” DeLizio said. “They can throw this one away, but we talked more about their approach. They have to change their mental approach at

North Branford will continue its four-game road trip against Coginchaug, Haddam-Killingworth, and Morgan before returning home Wednesday, May 6, against Valley Regional at 4 p.m.

NORTH BRANFORD

Girls Lacrosse

Saturday, May 2: vs. Wilvur Cross at noon

Monday, May 4: at Lyman Hall at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: vs, East Haven at 4 p.m.

Friday, May 1: at Jonathan Law at 3:45 p.m.

Monday, May 4: vs. Guilford at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: at Lyme-Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Thursday, May 7: at Amity at 7 p.m. Baseball

Monday, May 4: vs. Savred Heart Academy at 6:30 p.m.

Boys Tennis

Friday, May 1: at Notre DameWest Haven at 3:45 p.m.

Monday, May 4: vs. Jonathan Law at 3:45 p.m.

Baseball

Saturday, May 2: at Cromwell at 11 a.m.

Monday, May 4: at Morgan at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: vs. Valley Regional/Westbrook at 4 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse

Saturday, May 2: vs. Foran at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, May 5: at Haddam Killingworth at 4 p.m.

Saturday, May 2: at Morgan at 2 p.m.

Tuesday, May 5: vs. North Haven at 5 p.m.

Thursday, May 7: vs. Foran at 5 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse Boys Golf

Monday, May 4: at Morgan/Coventry at 3 p.m.

Tuesday, May 5: vs. Cheshire at 3 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: at East Haven at 2:15 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: vs. Guilford at 3:45 p.m.

Thursday, May 7: vs. Amity at 3:45 p.m.

Girls Tennis

Saturday, May 2: vs. Guilford at 11 a.m.

Monday, May 4: at Guilford at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: at Hamden at 3:45 p.m.

Thursday, May 7: at Lauralton Hall at 3:45 p.m.

Softball

Monday, May 4: at Morgan at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: vs. Valley Regional at 4 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse

Tuesday, May 5: vs. Haddam Killingworth at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6: vs. Cromwell at 3:45 p.m.

Monday, May 4: at East Hampton at 4 p.m.

Wednesday,May6:atCromwellat4p.m.

Monday, May 4: vs. Coginchaug at 3 p.m.

Thursday, May 7: at Lyme-Old Lyme at 3 p.m.

Photo by Serenity J. Bishop/The Sound

The Numbers

down into

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!

Your Next Audiobook? Narrated Next Door

By Kristina Dorsey

Special to Living

Consider Me The Country Club Murder South of Somewhere

If you’ve been listening to audiobooks like , one of series, or , you should know this: those narrators might be your neighbors.

Several southeastern Connecticut residents have developed full-time careers as audiobook narrators. The four narrators The Day interviewed all began recording at Tantor Studios, a major audiobook publisher in Old Saybrook, in 2015 or 2016.

The popularity of audiobooks has soared, propelled by two major factors. First was the advent of internet downloads. Before that, books were on tape or CDs; Alex Kydd, of New London, recalled that the first audiobook he narrated was a 10-disc compilation.

The second industry-changing event was the pandemic, when people stuck at home were looking for entertainment options.

These four narrators — all actors first — went into Tantor daily when they started. Callie Beaulieu, of Stonington, recalled regular 9-to-5 shifts at the Old Saybrook location.

“We used to call each other booth buddies. Tantor had a series of recording booths in their on-site facilities, and we would all go in for 9 o’clock, we’d all record our pages, and we’d all leave at 5 o’clock. We were a team,” she said.

When the 2020 shutdown happened, they shifted to working at home in makeshift recording booths. They have since upgraded to impressive setups, using materials like foam and moving blankets for soundproofing.

Having a booth at home comes with occasional challenges. Beaulieu recalled recording and hearing what sounded like snoring. She finally opened her booth door to find her 20-pound cat “dead asleep outside the door snoring,” she said.

Voice of Romance

When it comes to narrating audiobooks, some people are hired for a range of subjects, while others — like Kydd — find themselves selected for a specific genre.

“I’m circling in on about 300 books at this point, all romance. It’s aaall romance,” Kydd said. “For me, there’s a huge focus on sports romance. Specifically, hockey. It’s ironic because I’ve never even seen a hockey game.”

Heated Rivalry

He didn’t narrate , though he noted Tantor produced the 2019 audiobook of that now-buzzy release. Narrators are paid per finished hour,

with rates varying widely based on experience, Beaulieu said. Amy Bentley noted the standard negotiated rate for SAGAFTRA narrators is $200 to $300 per finished hour, along with contributions toward health and retirement, though each publisher negotiates its own rate. Nonunion narrators set their own prices.

Kydd was cast as a romance narrator early on because of where his voice sits.

When he narrates, he adapts his delivery to match the genre.

“I always imagine — because it’s romance — that I’m telling, like, my best friends a very sexy secret, you know what I mean?” he said. “I imagine I’m really talking to somebody and telling them a story, versus sitting here and reading, which is, I think, why I’ve worked a lot, because I think listeners really respond to that — especially with romance.”

Narrating a book is much more than reading. It is closer to acting, though, as Kydd put it, “honestly, it’s a lot more work because you’re playing everybody.”

There are two types of recordings. In one, Kydd plays all the men, a female narrator plays all the women, and an editor blends the recordings so it sounds like a real-time conversation.

In the other, “you’re playing everybody,” he said — “the female lead, the child, the grandmother, the sister, the best friend, the security guard — you’re literally playing everybody. So it’s mental and vocal gymnastics, really.”

Kydd works on four to six books a month, usually giving himself about a week per book. Sometimes, he works 12- to 16-hour days.

“You get into a flow. Sometimes you vibe with one author’s writing over another’s. Sometimes I’m able to go for two minutes without a mess-up. Sometimes I’m going sentence by sentence. It just depends on the day,” he said.

Casting directors and producers now know Kydd well and book him accordingly. Authors who have heard his work sometimes request him directly.

Kydd studied acting at the William Esper Studio in New York City. His favorite theater roles include Romeo in with Flock Theatre in New London, and Victor Frankenstein in at Capital Classics in Hartford.

He has recorded for Disney, Audible, and Simon & Schuster, among others. He still occasionally records at Tantor, and Audible brings him to its New Jersey headquarters.

Romeo and Juliet Frankenstein

Photo by Sarah Gordon/The Day

Audiobook narrator Alex Kydd works April 1, 2026, from the studio he built with family in the basement of his home in New London.

Photo by Sarah Gordon/The Day

Audiobook narrator Amy Bentley records from her booth in the guest room at her home in Oakdale on April 2, 2026.

Your Next Audiobook? Narrated Next Door

Continued from page 20

He is often booked months in advance; in late March, he said he was scheduled through September.

Kydd enjoys the work.

“I get to act every single day, and that’s rare for a normal person to get to act every day, to really commodify the art in a full-time, sustainable way. ... I feel lucky in that sense,” he said.

He also appreciates the flexibility. While it’s full-time, the schedule is his own.

people are more suited to nonfiction. Within those, there are subcategories as well. It just depends on where your voice falls naturally,” she said.

tions, following a document that notes each issue, before editors finalize the track.

Beaulieu grew up in Stonington, where she performed with the Stonington Players, studied acting at the University of Connecticut, worked as an actress in Chicago, and later returned home after time abroad.

She still acts in film and television, recently appearing in episodes of on Fox and on NBC. She no longer performs onstage, finding that theater and audiobook work together took too much of a toll on her voice.

Audiobook narrators, she said, must remember “you’re in someone’s ear.”

“The intimacy level shifts, and I’m sure you can gather from this conversation, I’m basically Carol Channing just in general. I’m pretty big,” she said, laughing. “So it’s been learning to create an intimacy on the mic, and you don’t have to push so hard.”

During her busiest year, Beaulieu recorded 48 books. Her work spans genres, including 25 books in a single cozy mystery series.

She also records nonfiction, from self-help to science.

“I think what I love the most about doing nonfiction is I truly, honestly believe that I’ve become smarter and I’ve become a better human being, because I’ve read titles I never in a million years would have picked up, and they’ve made me better for the narrating,” she said.

For one seven-hour science book, she spent 23 hours on research.

“It takes longer because you have to stop and literally sometimes do a sentence a couple times in order to get the pronunciation right so it has a flow to it, so it sounds like you know what you’re saying,” she said.

From Amish Romances to Cozy Mysteries

Amy Bentley, who grew up in East Lyme and now lives in Oakdale, began narrating audiobooks after Beaulieu mentioned audition opportunities at Tantor while they were performing together with Flock Theatre. Now an independent contractor, Bentley worked with 13 companies last year.

She narrates across genres.

“Some people’s voices are more suited for fiction. Some

Hatha Yoga Series

Bentley said she tried textbooks “a spin — not for me.”

“If you were to listen to an audiobook, you’ll know right away whether you’re going to like it because if the narrator is not interested and engaged in the topic, you probably won’t be interested and engaged in the topic,” she said.

Bentley often narrates cozy mysteries and small-town romances. She previously did more young adult titles.

“For a while, I was big in Amish romances. ... That’s exactly what you think, romance over the butter churning and so on,” she said.

Different genres require different tones. Cozy mysteries often feature a sassy, rough-around-the-edges protagonist, while Amish romances call for a more wholesome delivery.

A typical 200-page book takes about three days to record. She caps her daily workload at 60 to 70 pages.

Bentley graduated from East Lyme High School in 2008 and earned a theater degree from Western Connecticut State University. Her stage roles include Olga in Anton Chekhov’s at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Hysteria in by Hannah Simms at Hartbeat Ensemble, and Lady Macbeth in Flock Theatre’s

Three Sisters Fat and Blood Macbeth

“What is similar between acting and narrating is you really launch yourself into that character and start thinking of things as if you were that person,” she said. “But when you’re doing an audiobook, you have a million chances to get it exactly the way you like it. Whereas when you’re onstage ... what you get is what you get. You can’t erase and do another take.”

‘This

is a Marathon’

Vanessa Vradenburgh, whose professional name is Vanessa Daniels, was an actress in New York City before moving to Madison with her family. After stepping back from acting to raise her children, she auditioned at Tantor and has worked in audiobooks for a decade.

The transition wasn’t easy.

“I had some commercial voice-overs, which is quick, right? Quick clips. This is a marathon. It’s a marathon mentally and vocally, and I’ll be honest, I was terrible at it when I started,” she said. “I’m very grateful that they actually stuck with me and believed that I would get better. I’m sure that’s pretty normal ... because it’s a different sort of media. It takes a minute to get used to the nuances of something new.”

Maintaining focus for hours at a time was the biggest challenge.

Once recording is complete, a proofreader reviews the audio and flags errors. Vradenburgh then records correc-

Library Donations Wanted

She primarily records detective novels and cozy mysteries, but has also narrated books on parenting and women in business.

“It’s cool because you work alone, but it’s a huge community. I’ve made a lot of friends,” she said.

She also enjoys building relationships with authors.

“I’ve made relationships with a couple of authors that I’ve done multiple books for in their series, and that’s really cool, especially if they really like what you’ve done and they start to request you for their titles. That feels really good,” she said.

Hearing from listeners is especially meaningful. Vradenburgh recalled a conversation with a man who told her he has dyslexia and can’t read.

“The only way I can enjoy books is through audio,” he said.

While he hadn’t heard her work specifically, she said the moment stuck with her.

“Even though I’m alone — you’re sort of like a lone ranger listening to the sound of your voice all day — the audio industry really does reach people,” she said. “To hear that he had this disability and it was the only way he could enjoy books really touched my heart.”

Listen to these Audiobooks

The narrators shared a few titles they recommend as favorites or good introductions:

Pucking Around Jacksonville Rays

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

Alex Kydd ( series), by Emily Rath ( series), by Becka Mack , by Liz Tomford

Consider Me Playing for Keeps Caught Up

The Country Club Murder A Devil Went Down to Georgia

In the Bones

Callie Beaulieu series, by Julie Mulhern , by Deb Miller Landau , by Tessa Wegert

South of Somewhere

The Mortician Murders

The Hanging City

The Boxcar Librarian

Amy Bentley , by T.I. Lowe series, by Greta Boris , by Charlie Holmberg , by Briana Labuskes

Riddle of Spirit and Bone

Secrets of Six Figure Women

Armed and Fabulous

Vanessa Vradenburgh , by Carolyn Korsmeyer , by Barbara Stanny , by Camilla Chafer

The Friends of the James Blackstone Library are accepting donations of new and used books of all kinds, DVDs, CDs, and vinyl records. Donation bins are located behind the James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main Street, Branford, or at 30 Harrison Avenue, Branford. Proceeds benefit the Blackstone Library’s enrichment activities and programs for children and adults within the community. For more information or to make arrangements for a large donation, email friends@blackstonelibrary.org.

Acting and Narrating

Best Medicine Stumble

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

THURSDAY,

APRIL 30

Hearts, Minds, and Monkey Business: Engaging with a Visual, Social, and Stressful World

: 10 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Jonathan Pertile, Lihao Yan, Nisarg Shah, and Stephanie Reis of Yale Science in the News. 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.

Virtual Author Talk with Jason Reynolds

: 2 p.m. Virtual. Hosted by Essex Library. Features a conversation with author Jason Reynolds on his latest work and writing process. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Mission: Ready

: 3:15 to 4:30 p.m. Kathleen E. Goodwin Elementary School, 80 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Hosted by Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services. Features an after-school program with activities focused on building confidence, problem-solving, and community engagement. For grade 4 students. Cost: $20 for four-week session. For info or to register (required), contact 860-510-5050 or jessica.wood@oldsaybrookct.gov.

Tri-Town Fortnite Tournament

: 3:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St., Guilford. Fortnite tournament hosted by OneUp Games. Limited team spots available. For ages 12 to 18. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Junior Librarians: Plan the Fun

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Program for ages 8 to 12 exploring how library programs are planned, with participants creating their own program ideas. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Art Reception: Sonya Gill and Students

: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Masonicare at Chester Village, 317 West Main St., Chester. Reception featuring artwork by Sonya Gill and mosaics by Gloria Nilsson’s students. Free. For info, call 860-531-1400.

Opening Reception: Clinton Art Society

Spring Members Exhibition

Spring Members Exhibition

: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Marks the opening of the , on view through June 25. Features works by members of the Clinton Art Society across a range of fine art media. Free and open to the public. For info, contact casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org.

The Beatles! Author Talk and Musical Performance

:

6 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features a multimedia presentation with visuals and recordings by Charles Rosenay, along with readings and signing of

Celebrities, Actors, Athletes, Mods and Rockers: The Book of Top 10 Beatles Lists

. Includes an acoustic Beatles performance by a Paul McCartney soundalike. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Empowerment Through Preparedness Workshop

: 6 to 7:30 p.m., Women and Family Life Center, 96 Fair St., Guilford. Informational workshop on safety planning and the restraining order process. Registration required. For info, call 203-458-6699 or visit womenandfamilylife.org.

Evening of Guitar at the Blackstone

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Blackstone Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Guitarist and teacher Neal Fitzpatrick leads a program of performances, discussion, and instruction exploring connections between classical music and guitar. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-4881441 ext. 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Documentary Screening

: 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Documentary on the role of caterpillars in ecosystems. Hosted by Guilford Land Conservation Trust and Guilford Free Library. Free. Registration requested. For info or to register, contact 203-453-8282 or 203-457-9253 or info@guilfordlandtrust.org or deadevito@guilfordfreelibrary.org, or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Virtual Author Talk with Jason Reynolds

Coach

: 7 p.m. Virtual. Features a conversation with author Jason Reynolds on , the fifth book in the Track series, exploring the character’s backstory. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 1

Tween Writing

: 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 188 Route 81. Writing program for ages 9 to 12; family invited to attend final session. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Calendar for the Week of April 30, 2026

Tween Time: Star Wars Party

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Program for ages 8 to 12 featuring a themed party with games and crafts. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Exhibit Reception:

A Town Named Madison: Celebrating 200 Years

: 4 to 7 p.m. Lee’s Academy, 14 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society. Features a reception for the exhibit highlighting Captain Frederick Lee and Madison’s Revolutionary War history. Free. For info, call 203-245-4567, email office@madisonhistory.org, or visit madisonhistory.org.

Chester First Friday Night Art Stroll

: 5 to 8 p.m. Downtown Chester. Shops, restaurants, and galleries open late. Live music and artist events throughout town, including Paddy Whack performing at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Gallery, 1 Spring St., and Mike and Rich Acoustic Duo performing at 6:30 p.m. at Little House Brewing Company, 16 Main St. For info, call 860-526-2077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 1 AND SATURDAY, MAY 2

Razzle Dazzle: Community Talent Show

: 6:30 p.m. Valley Regional High School Auditorium, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Presented by Tri-Town Youth Services Bureau. Features a community talent show. For info or tickets, visit ttysb.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 2

One Day Warehouse Book Sale

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 20 Thompson Rd., Branford. Hosted by the Friends of the James Blackstone Memorial Library. Features adult fiction (hardcover, trade, and mass market paperback), history and Civil War titles, children’s books, and DVD movies. Prices: $3 hardcover, $2 softcover, $0.50 mass market paperback, $1 each DVD or $10 for 25 DVDs. Children’s books individually priced from $0.50 to $3. Cash, credit cards, and Apple Pay accepted. For info, contact 203-4881441 or friends@blackstonelibrary.org.

Plant and Bake Sale

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ivoryton Library, 106 Main St., Ivoryton. Sale to benefit the library. Donations of plants and baked goods accepted Friday or Saturday morning; empty pots available at the library. For info, call 860-767-1252 or visit ivorytonlibrary.org.

See page 23

Choices Galore At Connecticut Theaters This Month; Bushnell Will Host Multiple Tony Winners Next Season

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York professional theater

By Karen Isaacs

Returning to New Haven

: The new dean of the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale and artistic director of Yale Rep is Evan Yionoulis, who served on the drama school faculty and directed numerous plays at Yale Rep. She will take over for James Bundy, who is retiring at the end of June. She is currently the dean and director of the drama division at the Juilliard School.

Two Adventuresome Choices

Aisle ON THE

of the popular game. For information and dates when subscriptions and tickets for individual productions will be available, visit mtcofct.com.

Next Year at the Shubert

Prior to that, the cast will complete final rehearsals at the theater. is an outrageous comedy that took Broadway by storm last year. Audiences seem to either adore it or dislike it intensely. Tickets are now on sale at bushnell.org.

Award Nominations

The Lost Boys Schmigadoon!

The

: MTC (Music Theatre of Connecticut) in Norwalk has announced two adventuresome choices for next year’s season. It will open with (Sept. 11 to 27), the musical written by Barry Manilow, based on the true story of the musical group Comedian Harmonists, who were popular in Germany in the 1920s and early 1930s until Hitler destroyed them. Next up, from Nov. 6 to 22, is . In the new year is (Feb. 5 to 21), based loosely on Shakespeare’s . The season will conclude with (April 16 to May 2), based on the film

: The Broadway series at New Haven’s Shubert Theatre will feature productions of (Oct. 1 to 4), (Nov. 18 to 22), (Feb. 26 to 28), (April 30 to May 2), and (June 1 to 6). For information about subscriptions and other ticket options, visit shubert.com.

Harmony Always… Patsy Cline Desperate Measures — A Musical Comedy Gone Wild Measure for Measure Clue

Continued from page 22

Babysitter Training

Tickets on Sale

: Cheyenne Jackson will perform his concert Cheyenne Jackson: That Guy from That Thing at the Bushnell on Oct. 17. Tickets are now on sale at bushnell.org. Jackson, who may be best known for his role on , has appeared on Broadway in , , , , and more.

Wiz Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas Beetlejuice The Book of Mormon Heathers the Musical Glee Into the Woods Xanadu Once Upon a Mattress Finian’s Rainbow

It Starts in Hartford

Oh, Mary!

: The national tour of the Broadway hit will launch at the Bushnell from Sept. 19 to 23.

: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 56 High St., Deep River. Course covers child safety, emergency response, diapering, and care basics, and includes CPR, First Aid, and AED certification for adults, children, and infants through the American Heart Association. Hosted by A Second Chance and Tri-Town Youth Services. Cost: $85 per person. Registration required. For info, contact 860526-3600 or abby@ttysb.org.

Taking Care: Intentional Aging:

9:30 a.m., Women and Family Life Center, 96 Fair St., Guilford. Program focused on navigating healthcare and self-advocacy. Registration required. For info, call 203-458-6699 or visit womenandfamilylife.org.

Pratt House Volunteer Kick-Off

: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pratt House, 19 West Ave., Essex. Hosted by Essex Historical Society. Training session for volunteers interested in leading tours or serving as hosts during the summer season. Free. RSVP required. For info or to register, contact 860-767-0681 or membership@essexhistory.org, or visit essexhistory.org.

Ragtime Death of a Salesman Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York Fallen Angels Joe Turner’s Come and Gone Oedipus

Beaches Chess

Unsettling Giant

: is an unsettling play that raises questions about separating the artist from their work. The English Oh, Mary!

Proof Chess The Outsiders Beaches Dog Day Afternoon

: The New York City awards season is starting, with two groups — the Outer Critics Circle (of which I am a member) and the Drama League — announcing their nominations. The two have different criteria, so the nominations varied. The OCC gave the new musical 11 nominations, with the satire , based on the popular TV show, receiving eight. Other shows with multiple nominations were , , , , , and . Well-known performers receiving nominations include Rose Byrne, Nathan Lane, John Lithgow, Kelli O’Hara, Joshua Henry, and Laurie Metcalf. The category of best solo performance features Sean Hayes, Jean Smart, and Daniel Radcliffe. It was interesting that productions of , , , , and were basically shut out. One performer each from and did receive a nomination.

Shoreline Greenway Trail First Saturday Walk

: 10 a.m. to noon. Timberland Preserve, 319 Rte. 80, Guilford. Hosted by the Shoreline Greenway Trail. Features a guided two-mile walk to observe signs of spring. Not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. Rain cancels. For info, visit shorelinegreenwaytrail.org.

New York Transportation Weekend

: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Features rides on historic New York subway cars from the museum’s collection, including NY 6688, which appeared in the film Spider-Man II, and a Lo-V subway car featured in Megalopolis. Themed music and access to museum grounds throughout the day. Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for children; museum members receive 50% off. For info, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

Spring Craft Fair

: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features local artisans and handmade goods. Rain date May 3. Free. For info, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Currently Playing in Connecticut Circus Fire

Lifespan of a Fact

9 to 5 The Musical Native Gardens It’s a Grand Night for Singing Jesus Christ Superstar Nunsense Primary Trust

import, starring John Lithgow in a stunning performance, is about author Roald Dahl and his antisemitic beliefs. The events portrayed are fictional, but the show is based on an incident in 1983. An incendiary book review about the IsraelLebanon conflict leads to the finale — Dahl’s vehemently antisemitic rant to a newspaper reporter. For a full review, visit twoontheaisle.wordpress.com. Go see this limited run for the performances. : at TheaterWorks Hartford through Sunday, May 31; at Playhouse on Park through Sunday, May 3; at MTC in Norwalk through Sunday, May 3; at Hartford Stage through May 10; at Seven Angels Theatre in Waterbury through May 2; at Goodspeed Musicals through June 7; at Legacy Theatre through May 17; and at Westport Country Playhouse through May 2.

Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.

To read her reviews of New York and Connecticut shows, visit twoontheaisle.word press.com. She is a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, Connecticut Theater Women’s Network, and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Connecticut River Valley Environmental Summit:

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wesleyan University, Fayerweather–Beckham Hall, 45 Wyllys Ave., Middletown. Hosted by the Connecticut River Museum. Environmental leaders will present sessions on issues affecting the Connecticut River watershed, with discussions and networking opportunities for scientists, policymakers, academics, and community stakeholders. Theme: “Stewardship in Action.” For info or tickets, call 860-7678269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

STEAM Saturdays: Build a Mini Lightsaber

: 10:30 a.m.

Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Science program for ages 5 to 12 exploring basic circuitry through a hands-on project. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Balloon Animals

: Noon to 1 p.m. Chester Public Library, 21 West Main St., Chester. Free balloon animals in celebration of Chester’s Conn-Ducky Derby. For info, call 860526-0018 or visit chesterctlibrary.com.

See page 24

Columnist

Memorial Day Weekend Lawn Party At Madison Beach Hotel

Press Release from the Madison Beach Hotel

Madison Beach Hotel will kick off the summer season with a Memorial Day weekend lawn party Sunday, May 24, featuring live music, food, and oceanfront views.

The free event runs from 4 to 7 p.m., with live music by the Caribbean Vibes Steel Drum Band from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the hotel’s outdoor beach bar.

In case of rain, the event will move indoors to The Wharf Restaurant from 4 to 6 p.m.

Complimentary valet parking will be available on-site. Madison Beach Hotel is located at 94 W. Wharf Road, Madison. For more information, call 203-245-1404 or visit eventvesta.com/events/143153/t/tickets.

Caribbean Vibes

Continued from page 23

All About Invasive Plant Species

: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a talk on identifying and managing invasive plants in Connecticut, presented with the Essex Land Trust. Free. Registration suggested. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

The Lucky Husky Storytime

: 1 to 2 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Storytime with author Bethany O’Brien followed by a visit from the UConn mascot. For grades K to 6. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Chats

:

1 to 2 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Author reading and discussion. Free. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

: 1 to 3 p.m. Greater New Haven Cat Project Center, 1874 Middletown Ave., Northford. Features a talk by Donna Velardi on techniques of animal communication and practical guidance. Includes a brief one-onone photo reading of a current or past pet. Cost: $25. For info or tickets, visit gnhcp.org.

:

1 to 5:10 p.m. Madison Cinemas, 761 Boston Post Rd. Features a live broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera’s , followed by a 30-minute discussion led by Alan Mann. Co-sponsored by the Shoreline Opera Club and Shoreline Village Connecticut. Admission to the cinema applies. For info, email ShorelineOperaClub@gmail.com or visit shorelinevillagect.org.

: 5:30 p.m.

Tpke., Clinton. Kentucky

viewing event with raffles and a best hat contest. Cost: $75. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

New York Transportation Weekend Night Photography Session

: 6 to 10 p.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. After-hours photography session featuring historic New York transit equipment in a nighttime setting with extended access for photographers. Cost: $30 for adults, $25 for museum members. For info or tickets, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 3

Field Trip: Farm River Trolley Trail

: 8 to 10:30 a.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Guided walk along the trolley tracks through marsh and woodland habitats to observe resident and migrating birds. Led by DeWitt Allen. A trolley ride will return participants to the starting point at the end of the walk. Hosted by Friends of the Farm River Estuary and the New Haven Bird Club. Meet in the rear parking lot. For info or to register, contact DeWitt Allen at 860-949-0995 or allendatlow@gmail.com.

Griswold Forum: Connecticut River Museum

: 9:30 a.m.

Saint Ann’s Episcopal Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. Talk by Elizabeth Kaeser, executive director of the Connecticut River Museum, on the museum and its environmental summit. Free. For info, contact 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.

Community Tag Sale

: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Features a tag sale with more than 20 vendors, plus food, music, and community activities. Rain date May 10. Vendor spaces available. For info or to reserve a spot, call 203-457-0047.

:

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Features rides on historic New York subway cars and family programming, including children’s activities and a costumed superhero appearance. Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for children; museum members receive 50% off. For info, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

: 1 p.m. Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, 55 East Kings Highway, Chester. Author talk and reading on World War II history and the events behind the novel. Free and open to the public. For info, contact 860-526-8920 or office@cbsrz.org, or visit cbsrz.org.

: 1 to 3 p.m. Bauer Park, 245 Copse Road, Madison. Activities include bike safety checks, races, obstacle courses, and giveaways. Participants should bring a bike and helmet. Free and open to ages 1 to 13. Rain date May 17. Hosted by Madison Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee with community partners. For info, call 203927-6411 or visit madisonct.org.

Delving into the Art of Papercutting

: 1 to 4 p.m. Spectrum Art Gallery and Store, 61 Main St., Centerbrook. Workshop on the history and techniques of papercutting, including two-fold, single-fold, no-fold, and layered designs, with demonstrations by the instructor. No experience necessary. Cost: $50; $15 materials fee payable to the instructor. For info or to register, visit spectrumartgallery.org.

Tunes and Tales from Connecticut

: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Musical storytelling program featuring Connecticut history and folklore. Free. Registration required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit

See page 26

The

Steel Drum Band brings island rhythms to the lawn at Madison Beach Hotel.

Photo courtesy of the Madison Beach Hotel

Fireside

with Local Authors: Roberto Alfaro

Yes, You Can Talk to Animals: The Basics of Animal Communication Met Live Broadcast and Discussion: Eugene Onegin

Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth

Derby

Hats and Horses

New York Transportation Weekend: Family Day

Books and Bagels: by Loretta Goldberg

Bike Bash

Beyond the Bukubuk Tree

Page Turners

TheBeheadingGame byRebeccaLehmann

In this clever, feminist reimagining of the death of Anne Boleyn, the late queen awakens in her box, sews her head back on, and goes out into the world seeking revenge. This book is a winning combination of known facts blended with the author’s own magical realism. I loved it!

— Marilyn, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Every other week, we invite local booksellers to submit suggestions for the best books on shelves now—it’s all part of our mission to keep our readers informed, up-to-date, and entertained. View previous Page Turners at www.zip06.com/pageturners.

SonofNobody byYannMartel

Yann Martel’s new novel is wholly inventive and unique. It takes the form of a lost Trojan epic and the footnotes of the Oxford scholar who reconstructed it. The prose alternates between academic and deeply personal, telling a story of war, family and duty. This book is a great work of fiction, but it’s also full of thoughtful commentary on Homer and his work.

— Marisa, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

DaughterofEgypt byMarieBenedict

Marie Benedict never disappoints. Her ability to unearth stories of meaningful and important women in history and bring them into the light through her masterful storytelling has made me a lifelong fan.

— Terri, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

TheAstralLibrary byKateQuinn

Are you looking for an escape from *gestures wildly*? Right this way for a trip through a magical library. Your journey includes visits with literary hotshots such as Sherlock Holmes and Jay Gatsby, period-appropriate costume changes, and dragons! Kate Quinn’s first foray into magical realism is a whimsical delight to read, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves books.

— Julie, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

: 4 p.m. Deep River Congregational Church, 1 Church St. Concert celebrating America 250 under the direction of Jacob Wilson. Free and open to the public. For info, call 860-526-5045 or visit deeprivercc.org.

MONDAY, MAY 4

: 3 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Film screening in the Buel Room. Movie title available through the library. Free. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Hearing Loss: Challenges and Opportunities

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Program on communication strategies for hearing loss. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Getting Paid to Talk: An Introduction to Voice-Over Work

: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $30. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 5

What’s the World Made Of: From Quarks to the Cosmos

: 10 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Presented by Charles Baltay, the Eugene Higgins professor emeritus of physics and astronomy at Yale University. 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.

Library Renewal with Stephen Watson

:

2 to 3 p.m. Killingworth Library, 188 Route 81. Introductory Tai Chi class focused on balance and movement. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Mother’s Day Surprise

: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 188 Route 81. Craft program for ages 3 and up. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Lego WeDo Coding

: 4:15 to 5 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Program combining Lego building and coding. For grades 2 to 6. Free.

Comes to Ivoryton Lady Day

Press Release from the Ivoryton Playhouse

Benefits programs providing care and support for cats in the Greater New Haven area. For info or to donate, visit thegreatgive.org or gnhcp.org.

Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill

Ivoryton Playhouse continues its 2026 season with , an intimate portrait of jazz legend Billie Holiday. Previews begin Thursday, May 7, opening night is Friday, May 8, and the production runs through Sunday, May 31.

Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill

Set in a small Philadelphia nightclub in 1959, captures one of Billie Holiday’s final performances. Through songs and storytelling, Holiday reflects on her life, her loves, and the struggles that shaped her artistry. The play features many of her most iconic songs, including “God Bless the Child” and “Strange Fruit,” offering an evening that is both musically rich and emotionally compelling.

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

The production stars Christina Acosta Robinson ( ) as Billie Holiday. She is joined by actor-musician Manny Houston as Jimmy Powers, Holiday’s accompanist and confidant, who also serves as music director. The live band features Jocelyn Pleasant on drums and Eneji Alungbe on upright bass, creating an intimate jazz club atmosphere inside the Playhouse.

Todd L. Underwood directs, with scenic and lighting design by Marcus Abbott, sound design by Rhian Franchebois, props by Kat Schorn, and costumes by Sean Spina. The creative team also includes audio engineer Brian Salvia, stage manager James Joseph Clark, assistant stage manager Holly Price, wig associate Tinika Sadiku, and wig designer Nikiya Mathis, who in 2024 became the first hair and wig designer to receive a Special Tony Award

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

Bleeding Kansas, Chapter 1

: 6:15 to 7:30

p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Meeting starts 6:15 p.m., presentation at 6:30 p.m. Features a presentation by Steve Chatlas. Part of the Shoreline Civil War Roundtable monthly meeting. Free and open to the public. For info, contact the group’s facilitator at 860-395-1124 or olivia.jean@sbcglobal.net, or visit facebook.com/shorelinecivilwarroundtable.

Trivia Night

: 6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Evening trivia program. Free. Registration

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6

Godfrey Memorial Library 75th Anniversary Open House

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Godfrey Memorial Library, 134 Newfield St., Middletown. Tour the facilities and learn about genealogy and family history research services. Free and open to the public. Refreshments provided. Contact: 860-346-4375. Visit: godfrey.org.

APL Poetry Writing Group:

6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Writing group led by Sandra Yannone. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Tabletop RPG Game Night

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Role-playing game night. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Adult Movie Night

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 188 Route 81. Film screening. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

for her work on Jaja’s African Hair Braiding.

This production contains mature themes and language consistent with the life and experiences of Billie Holiday.

Tickets and more information are available at ivorytonplayhouse.org or by calling 860-767-7318.

Ivoryton Playhouse is located at 103 Main St., Ivoryton.

required. For info or to register, call 860669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Adult and Pediatric First Aid Awareness Training

THURSDAY, MAY 7

The Chocolate Factory of Life: Cellular Machines and Transporters

: 10 a.m.

Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. Presented by Sue Moon, Deepanshi, and Nghia Le of Yale Science in the News. 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.

Blackstone Game Group

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6 AND THURSDAY, MAY 7

The Great Give Fundraiser

: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. No certification is available with this class. Cost: $25. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org. : Online.

Hosted by The Greater New Haven Cat Project. Part of a 36-hour online giving event supporting nonprofit organizations.

: 5 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Casual game group for adults. Free. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Evening Tech Support and Exploration

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Technology help sessions. Free. No registration required. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Photo courtesy of the Ivoryton Playhouse

Christina Acosta Robinson stars as Billie Holiday in the Ivoryton Playhouse production of at Emerson's Bar & Grill." Lady Day

CT River Valley Symphonic Band Spring Concert

Movie Matinee

Summer Art Classes Open For Registration at GAC

Guilford Art Center announces that registration opened April 26 for its Summer 2026 adult art program. The seasonal program offers a diverse array of classes and workshops designed for adults of all skill levels — from beginners to experienced artists looking to expand their practice.

The summer session features hands-on courses across a variety of mediums, including ceramics, painting, blacksmithing, drawing, fiber arts, leatherworking, metalsmithing, glass, collage, weaving, and more. Taught by professional artists and instructors, classes provide a welcoming and enriching environment for creativity and personal growth.

“We’re excited to offer such a wide range of classes that meet the creative interests of our community,” said Maureen Belden, executive director of Guilford Art Center. “Summer is a great time to explore something new or deepen your artistic skills, and our instructors are here to support every student’s journey.”

Classes begin the first week of

Military Whist Card Party

July, with both daytime and evening options available. Workshops will be held throughout the summer. Financial aid is available for those who need help covering tuition costs. Applications are due Friday, June 12; visit guilford artcenter.org for more information.

Early registration is encour-

aged, as class sizes are limited and tend to fill quickly. To view the full summer catalog or register, visit guilfordartcenter.org or call 203-453-5947.

Guilford Art Center is a nonprofit organization serving the shoreline community and beyond with classes, exhibitions, and events that foster a love and understanding of the visual arts.

Continued from page 26

: 6:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Talk on local history during the American Revolution presented by the Essex Historical Society. Free. Registration suggested. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 West Wharf Rd., Madison. Event featuring rosé tastings and floral arrangements. For info or tickets, visit eventvesta.com/events/143152/tickets.

Revolution Close to Home: Five Lives in Early Potapaug during America’s Turning Point Roses and Rosé On Courage, Turmoil, and the Transformative Power of Love with Marjan Kamali

The Lion Women of Tehran

FRIDAY, MAY 8

: Doors open at 6 p.m.; games begin at 6:45 p.m. St. Monica Church Hall, 1321 Middletown Ave., Northford. Card games, raffles, and light refreshments. Cost: $12. Advance tickets required. For info or tickets, call 203-239-5378.

SATURDAY,

MAY 9

Killingworth Town-Wide Tag Sale:

Goodness Grows Plant Sale

: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd., Madison. Annual plant sale featuring member-grown perennials, annuals, herbs, hanging baskets, garden goods, and gardening demonstrations. Live music and baked goods available. Rain or shine. For info, contact 203-421-3241 or office@northmadisoncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/goodnessgrows.

Friends of the Guilford Free Library Spring Book Sale

:

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St., Guilford. Features a sale of gently used books, DVDs, CDs, and puzzles. Proceeds benefit library programs and services. For info, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

: 7 p.m. Virtual. Author talk discussing . Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. :

8 a.m. Locations throughout Killingworth, with a central site at the Courtyard, 176 Rte. 81. Hosted by the Killingworth Women’s Organization. Features tag sales across town, plus a “Snag-A-Bag” sale and Juniorettes thrift shop fundraiser. Proceeds benefit the KWO Scholarship Fund and other charitable efforts. For info or to register, email tagsale@kwoct.org or visit kwoct.org.

Killingworth Evergreen Garden Club Plant Sale

:

Friends of the Guilford Free Library Spring Book Sale

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St., Guilford. Features a sale of gently used books, DVDs, CDs, and puzzles. Proceeds benefit library programs and services. For info, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Parmelee Farm, 465 Route 81, Killingworth. Annual plant sale featuring locally grown perennials, hanging baskets, houseplants, and planters for Mother’s Day. Rain or shine. Proceeds benefit the club’s scholarship fund and town gardens. For info, call 203-988-1528.

Caregiver Support Group

: 10 to 11 a.m. Women and Family Life Center, Carriage House, 96 Fair St., Guilford. Ongoing support group for family and informal caregivers. Cost: Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-458-6699 or email programs@womenandfamilylife.org.

See page 29

Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center

Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center

Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center

Press Release from the Guilford Art Center

Anne Coffey At Belle Vie Café Loft Gallery

ness, shapes, and patterns.

In Love With Paper at the Loft Gallery through June 17 continues the Belle Vie Café tradition of supporting local artists. The show includes , , and Anne Coffey is a retired high school math teacher. She loves precision, neat-

The Gentleman Caller Come What May Garden Therapy

“There is a distinct connection between mathematics and art, so I am not surprised that, in retirement, I turned to creating art. The tools and materials I use in making my collages enable me to be precise and neat … and creative!”

She finds the relationships between marks, shapes, and colors intriguing.

“Those relationships have the power to evoke memories and feelings, a sense of a specific time or place. For me, art making is a kind of meditation — a way of slowing down, of escaping the obligations and business of everyday life.”

Coffey is an exhibiting member of several area art organizations, including Connecticut Women Artists, Essex Art Associ-

ation, Lyme Art Association, Guilford Art League, and Clinton Art Society. She is also a member of the Shoreline Arts Trail and exhibits her work at the BACA Gallery in Branford.

The Belle Vie Café Loft Gallery, 20 Church St., Guilford, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

14 x 14

Scorpio Scuttling into the Night.

11 x 14

Summer Petals.

Press Release from Belle Vie Cafe Loft Gallery

12 x 12 Garden Therapy.

14 x 14

The Gentleman Caller.

Madison Marks 200 Years With Living History Event

The Deacon John Grave House will step back in time May 16 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Madison’s incorporation with a living history event, complete with a horseback messenger and a colonial-style toast. The program begins at 4 p.m. on the lawn with music and games. Admission is free.

At 5:45 p.m., a post rider on horseback — portrayed by North Madison resident Tom Hopkins — will arrive with a message from the General Assembly, re-creating the moment in 1826 when the parish of East Guilford was granted permission to incorporate as its own town.

The rider will deliver the resolution to “Curtis Wilcox,” portrayed by Henry Griggs, who will read it aloud to the crowd. The reenactment reflects the events leading up to

Continued from page 27

: 10 to 11 a.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Guided tour of the library. Free. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

: 10 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: T by Lucy Burdette. Snacks will be provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-2457365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

he Key Lime Crime

: 10 a.m. to noon. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Demonstration by Paul Loescher. Free and open to the public. For info, email Marianne@RTDTECH.com or visit madisonartsocietyct.org.

: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All the King’s Horses Equine Rescue, 628 Forest Rd., Northford. Community event featuring local animal welfare organizations including All the King’s Horses Equine Rescue, Branford Compassion Club, Water N Webs, and The Greater New Haven Cat Project. Features vendors, educational materials, and animals. For info, contact 203-815-4013 or allthekingshorsesequinerescue@gmail.com.

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Chester. Self-guided walking tour of seven historically significant private homes hosted by the Chester Historical Society. Ticket holders will receive tour details and locations after purchase. Cost: $40 early bird; $35 for Chester Historical Society members; $50 day of tour. For info or tickets, visit chesterhistoricalsociety.org.

A Community Puzzling Group

: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Casual puzzle group; materials provided. Free. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Madison’s first town meeting, held June 19, 1826, and the naming of the town after the nation’s fourth president, James Madison.

Following the reading, brief remarks and patriotic songs will round out the outdoor program.

At 6 p.m., adults 21 and older are invited inside the house for a toast to the occasion. Refreshments will include soft drinks and a rum punch known as the Gravedigger, along with light snacks served by costumed volunteers. The event continues until 7 p.m.

The Deacon John Grave House, which dates to 1685, is located at 581 Boston Post Road, Madison, at the corner of Academy Street.

For more information, contact Henry Griggs at henry.griggs@yahoo.com.

Photography 101: Composition

: 2 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Workshop on light, white balance, and composition. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Songs We All Know

: 3 p.m. Clinton Town Hall, 54 East Main St., Clinton. Spring concert by the Shoreline Chorale featuring guest artist Dylan Armstrong. For info or tickets, visit shorelinechorale.org.

Friends of the Farm River and Estuary Riverside Dance

: 7 to 10 p.m. Italian American Social Club, 40 Hamre Ln., Branford. Features music, dancing, refreshments, games, and a cash bar to benefit Friends of the Farm River and Estuary. Cost: $25; free for children under 15. For info or tickets, visit friendsoffarmriver.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 9 AND SUNDAY, MAY 10

Mother’s Day Weekend: Scenic Trolley Rides and Craft Activity

: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Features scenic trolley rides along the Farm River. On Saturday, children can create a handmade Mother’s Day craft. Mothers and grandmothers receive free admission. General admission for other guests. For info, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 10

Mother’s Day Grand Buffet

: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd., Madison. Features a Mother’s Day brunch buffet. For info or reservations, visit madisonbeachhotelevents.com/events/mothers-daybrunch.

Tango and Jazz Concert

: 2 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Performance by The Broken Reed Saxophone Quartet. Free. Registration required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

MONDAY, MAY 11

Book Discussion

: 10 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Book:

The House at Sugar Beach: In Search of a Lost African Childhood By Helene Cooper

. Facilitated by educator Pamela Asmus. 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.

Social Justice Book Discussion

: 6:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Hybrid discussion program. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 12

Inside the World of Hummingbirds

: 10 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Presented by Joe Attwater, conservation and education coordinator for the Connecticut Audubon Society’s RTP Estuary Center in Old Lyme. 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.

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

Press Release from the Madison Historical Society

Photo courtesy of Henry Griggs

"Curtis Wilcox" c. 1826, portrayed by Henry Griggs.

Blackstone Library Tour

Saturday Sleuths Book Club

Madison Art Society: Framing Watercolors Without Glass

Animal Welfare Day

Historic Homes Walking Tour

Piece by Piece:

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

525 East Main Street

: 509 Branford

LLC to Susan G. and Patrick J. Clifford,

$91,000 on April 7

DEEP RIVER

134 River Street

GUILFORD

53 Brushy Plain Road Unit 4A

:

Ronald V. Cimmino to Brushy Plain LLC, $204,000 on April 8

57 Brushy Plain Road

: Estate of Jane M. Carnaghan and Ellen Carnaghan to Michael and Debra Kieslich, $185,000 on April 6

7 Dogwood Court

: Manacchio Holdings LLC to Alyssa M. Marino, $570,000 on April 9

420 East Main Street

: Jjjg LLC to Mark Colelo, $76,000 on April 9

525 East Main Street

: Phong Pham to Bertha Rizzuti, $99,000 on April 9

43 Hampton Park Unit 43

: Estate of Anthony Zdancewicz and Allison Dicicco to Rebecca Kohn, $320,000 on April 9

10 Hamre Lane

: Amy Angelo to Katherine Romanik, $189,999 on April 7

22 Montoya Drive Unit 22

: Maria

L. Couto to Hiliary M. Bassett, $300,000 on April 9

43 Peddlers Drive

: Danny Chang to Syed M W. Haider and Alina Zaidi,

$330,000 on April 7

21 Sagamore Cove Road

: Robert G

Bartner T and Robert G. Bartner to Blackjack Holdings LLC, $3,500,000 on April 8

: Edgardo A. and Colleen A. Mercadante to Gregory Canna, $65,250 on April 9

EAST HAVEN

: Estate of Dorothy Milardo and Laurie Cawley to Martha F. Wolfe, $440,000 on April 9

Long Hill Farms Road

: Kathy E. Breed to Lake Jessica LLC, $770,000 on April 10

2125 Long Hill Road

: Rose M.

216 Cosey Beach Avenue

: Robert

F. Braca to Ariana Mongillo and Edward Adams, $592,500 on April 9

52 Foote Road

: Bryan Barboza to Gianni Colon, $204,000 on April 6

Evangelista and Anthony Crisera to Akash R. and Mitalben R. Patel, $775,000 on April 8

: Elizabeth A. Hassan to Ethan and Rebecca Roberts, $15,000 on April 6

: Usama and Nayeema S. Khalidi to Vince Bayeh and Jennifer Abousada, $450,000 on April 6

2 Old Town Highway Unit 7 560 Silver Sands Road

: Pamela M.

Hemingway to Donna Ruotolo, $375,000 on April 8

Strong Street

: Zebcon LLC to Gzz Ss Us LLC, $280,000 on April 10

ESSEX

Edgewood Avenue

: Hxl

Incorporated to Stephen T. Giangrande, $550,000 on April 9

River Road

: Edgardo A. and Colleen A. Mercadante to Gregory Canna, $2,109,750 on April 9

: Brian Baker and Jason T. Forst to Mark and Linda F. Narbey, $950,000 on April 10 : Brian J. Marsh to William J. and Susan Manley, $235,000 on April 10 : Ellen RoseWood to Randi Lebar, $487,500 on April 6 : Kathleen E. Lynch to Nicholas Joseph and Elizabeth Jade Anderson, $1,020,000 on April 6

Real Estate Transactions

MADISON

Your hardworking and dedicated real estate agent...

Tracy Bonito, Realtor 203-772-5319

Tracy.Bonito@raveis.com

NORTH BRANFORD

Bob Lukaszek

203.623.3757

: Elite

140 Shawmut Avenue Renovations LLC to Pamela Hemingway and Lisa Carr, $535,000 on April 6

39 Sagamore Terracerace Road

: Mary C. Delaney to Kevin and Jennifer Rogers, $545,000 on April 6

: John M. and Karen E. Rankin to Callie Walter, $725,000 on April 9

: Estate of John C. Chapman and Jeffrey B. Chapman to Jose Espinosa, $695,000 on April 9 21 Little Hollow Road

BLukaszek@houlihanlawrence.com

Stephen Gaffney 917-705-7199

: Kyle and Maria Manske to Kenneth C. Erdos, $700,000 on April 10

HAVEN

: Kimberly Rogers to Jose G. Aguilera, $113,750 on April 6

: Estate of Ralph J. Pagliuca and Tracy Lawless to Jose G. Aguilera, $341,250 on April 6 2 Farmington

: 56 Associates LLC to Jmla Properties LLC, $540,000 on April 8 39 State Street

WESTBROOK

951 Old Clinton Road

: Suzanne Kerr to Michelle St Onge, $510,000 on April 7

Experience an architectural masterpiece on 5.65 secluded acres. This English Georgian estate offers enduring design and superior construction. Surrounded by mature woodlands, the property is a private retreat, complete with a gently winding stream and the preserved stone remnants of a historic mill. A world apart yet close to all that shoreline living has to offer. $2,650,000 | 24indigotrail.com

MARK MCELRATH

Real Estate Advisor

860.951.4918

mmcelrath@wpsir.com

markmcelrath.williampitt.com

Each office independently owned

: Real estate transactions are published using publicly available records and are matters of public record. Listings are not removed in response to general privacy requests. Removal will only be considered in cases involving a documented and credible

Note personal safety concern. Requests may be submitted to zip06@shore publishing.com

Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group.

For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.

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