Issuu

May 28, 2026

Branford, North Branford & Northford Vol. XXX Iss. 22

RTM Approves $148.6 Million Budget

By Laura Robida

Managing Editor

The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) approved a $148.6 million fiscal year 2026-27 budget May 12 that would increase Branford’s mill rate from 21.40 to 22.22 mills while boosting education spending, debt service, and capital investments.

The adopted budget totals $148,599,609, approximately 5.1% higher than the current year’s amended budget. The spending plan includes $73,189,576 for the Board of Education and $75,410,103 for town operations.

According to budget documents prepared by the Board of Finance (BOF), the proposed mill rate increase of 0.82 mills represents a

3.8% increase over the current rate.

The BOF’s recommended budget originally totaled $148,694,679 before amendments adopted by the RTM reduced the final spending plan by about $95,000.

In a transmittal letter presented during

See RTM Approves page 7

Framing Community Support

Longtime volunteer David Dong stands with a photograph he took at the Summer Palace in Beijing, China, in 2001 during the Community Dining Room’s Fourth Annual Art Gala at Nuzzo’s Farm in Branford on May 21. The event featured works by local, youth and emerging artists, with proceeds benefiting the Community Dining Room, which provided more than 60,000 meals last year.

fish ladder.....................................2

Ready for the Run Hornets boys lacrosse opens postseason play against Guilford........20

PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ TheSound

Postcards from Afar

Susan Cornell wraps up her threepart travel series from Italy..........23

Tom Cleveland: Restoring a River’s Return

By Pam Young

Correspondent

Every spring in Branford, thousands of river herring push upstream through the fish ladder at Supply Ponds, following a migration route their species traveled long before roads, neighborhoods, or dams reshaped the watershed.

For Tom Cleveland, watching those fish return never gets old.

“We opened the ladder and almost immediately had fish running up the ladder,” Tom says. “They ran up 2,000 to 3,000 in the first year.”

More than two decades after helping lead the effort to build the Branford fish ladder, Tom still speaks about the project with the excitement of someone watching it happen for the first time.

A longtime Branford Land Trust volunteer and former sustainability director for Stony Creek Quarry, Tom has spent years advocating for land conservation, watershed protection, and

Person of the Week

the restoration of migratory fish habitats along the shoreline. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Supply Ponds fish ladder, a project Tom helped organize, fundraise for, and oversee beginning in the early 2000s.

“In 2002, I volunteered to head up the effort to build the fish ladder at the Supply Ponds in Branford,” he says.

Tom’s connection to fish migration and natural ecosystems stretches back much further than Branford. Born in Alexandria, Virginia, he moved to Alaska in 1954 and grew up along the Yukon River, surrounded by salmon runs and remote wilder-

tems can deliver,” Tom says. “We would catch 4,000 to 5,000 salmon in the summers.”

Those early experiences left a lasting impression, even though Tom’s professional path initially moved in a different direction. After graduating from Princeton University with a degree in politics in 1975, he worked in banking, commercial lending, hedge fund investing, and financial services in New York City for decades before eventually relocating to Branford with his wife in 1992.

Not long after moving to town, Tom became involved with the Branford Land Trust.

“I was drawn to the land trust because I had been making threats to make civilian arrests for illegal ATVers on private property,” Tom says with a laugh.

What began as local conservation work eventually grew into a much larger ecological restoration

See Tom Cleveland page 8

Photo courtesy of Tom Cleveland

Tom Cleveland helped lead the effort to build Branford’s Supply Ponds fish ladder, a project that has helped restore migratory river herring to the Queach Brook watershed.

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Branford Firefighters, EMS Providers Honored for Cardiac Arrest Saves

Staff Report

The Branford Fire Department recently recognized emergency medical providers honored during the 2026 Yale New Haven Hospital Center for EMS EMS Week Celebration for their roles in three separate cardiac arrest incidents in 2025 that resulted in patients making full recoveries.

According to the department, the annual event recognized EMS providers from across the region for lifesaving care and brought together more than 250 providers, survivors, and family members. The May 15 ceremony also included reunions between cardiac arrest survivors and the emergency responders involved in their care.

“The highlight of the ceremony was recognizing the 42 cardiac arrest survivors from 2025,” Yale New Haven Hospital Center for EMS wrote in a May 17 Facebook post marking EMS Week 2026. “Ten survivors were able to attend and reunite with the EMS providers whose rapid actions, clinical excellence, and teamwork helped save their lives.”

The Branford Fire Department said one of the survivors recognized during the event attended the ceremony after being successfully resuscitated while visiting his wife at a nursing facility.

The department recognized the following personnel for their roles in the incidents:

For an Aug. 4, 2025, incident: James Carson, Jason Karpovich, Tyler Mahoney, Joseph Mazzarella, and Jeremiah Palmisano.

For a Dec. 11, 2025, incident: James Carson, Tyler Mahoney, Mitchell Mako, Dante Ghiroli, Michael Rebmann, Nicholas Antonucci, and Tate Barbarotta.

For a Feb. 11, 2025, incident: Eleftherios Gionteris and Andrew Raffile.

The Branford Fire Department credited the successful outcomes to “exceptional clinical care, teamwork, training, composure under pressure, and the dedication our personnel bring to every response.”

The Yale New Haven Hospital Center for EMS held its 12th annual EMS Week Celebration on May 15, according to WTNH.

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.

Orchard House Seeks Volunteers Planning to Go Abroad?

The East Shore District Health Department, 14 Business Park Drive, Branford, offers help with all the required and recommended vaccines for travel abroad. For more information, call 203-481-4233 and ask for the travel clinic office.

Programs Offered at W&FLC

Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC), located at 96 Fair Street, Guilford, offers Lawyer Time, a program to allow individuals to meet one-on-one with a volunteer attorney to discuss legal questions and better understand one’s personal rights and the legal process. Attorneys can discuss most civil matters. W&FLC does not provide pro bono services or legal representation. W&FLC also offers Financial Consults, a program that involves one-on-one appointments with a volunteer financial coach to review finances of participants and help them take control of their economic independence and success. Topics cover budgeting, divorce, finances, debt, death claims paperwork, and more. Lastly, W&FLC offers a guided assistance program with a social worker who can connect individuals with community resources on crisis services, social services, mental health, financial assistance, and legal services. For more information or an appointment, contact 203-458-6699 or programs@womenandfamilylife.org.

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

Obituaries

Obituary

John E. Chambers Branford

John E. Chambers of Branford, a man whose presence was matched only by the size of his heart, passed away May 14, 2026, at Connecticut Hospice after a long battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and deep love for the world around him. He was the beloved husband of Yvette Phenix Chambers.

John was born in New Haven March 23, 1957, a son of the late Norman R. Chambers Jr. and Marion Schmidt Chambers, and was a lifelong resident of Branford. He and his family owned Shelley’s Garden Center on Main Street in Branford for many years until its closing in 2023.

In addition to Yvette, John is survived by his children, Christiane (Andy) Fowler of Clinton and Taylor (Benjamin) Chambers-Scussel of Branford; his grandchildren, Henry Fowler and Ava, Aurora, and Autumn Scussel; and his sister, Michele (Alan) Santos of Vermont. He was predeceased by his brother, Norman R. Chambers III.

John was truly a gentle soul who cared deeply for all of God’s creatures, great and small. Throughout his life, he moved through the world with a quiet reverence for nature, taking immense pride in cultivating remarkable plants

Honor

Them With a Flag Program

Planned in North Branford

of every kind. To know John was to know a man rarely seen without a faithful German shepherd by his side, a reflection of his deep bond with animals and his loyal, protective nature.

His personality was, in every sense, larger than life. John had a rare gift for brightening any room. He was often the first to make others laugh, offer a playful nickname, or greet someone with his signature warm, welcoming handshake. Beneath his joyful humor, however, was a steady and peaceful presence, a source of strength for his family and community whose impact will be felt for years to come.

Burial services will be held privately. In honor of John’s lifelong commitment to the land and the industry he loved, his legacy will continue to foster the premier agricultural leaders of tomorrow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in John’s memory to the Lyman Hall FFA and Fox Field Farm 4-H youth programs, ensuring his passion for agricultural leadership inspires future generations. To learn more about John’s deep dedication to agriculture and our family’s enduring legacy — past, present, and future — please visit www.foxfieldfarm.net, where you can also learn about the FFA and 4-H youth programs that will help ensure his passion for agricultural leadership continues to inspire future generations.

The Northford-North Branford Women’s Club, GFWC, is sponsoring Honor Them

With a Flag, a salute to military personnel, veterans, first responders, and loved ones in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The public is invited to purchase a U.S. flag dedicated to a member of the military, a first responder, or someone close to their heart. The 12-inch-by-18-inch flags will be displayed on the front lawn of North Branford Town Hall from Wednesday, June 10 through Saturday, July 4. Each flag will include a white ribbon inscribed with the name and rank of the honoree. Flags may be collected from the Town Hall lawn for one week following July 4. Proceeds benefit local veterans’ projects. Flags are $10 each. Order forms and checks payable to the Northford-North Branford Women’s Club, GFWC should be mailed to NorthfordNorth Branford Women’s Club, P.O. Box 264, Northford, CT 06472. Orders must be received by June 6. There is no limit on purchases. A ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, at 7 p.m. on the North Branford Town Hall lawn. For more information, call Mary Ellen Collett at 203-484-9079 or visit northfordnbwomensclubgfwc.org.

Contacting The Sound

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

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

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

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

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

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Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

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

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

Branford Community Gardens

Launches Adopt-a-Plot Program

Branford Community Gardens has launched its first Adopt-a-Plot Sponsorship Program to support the organization’s Seed, Weed, and Feed program during the 2026 growing season. The all-volunteer nonprofit organization is inviting individuals, families, businesses, and community organizations to sponsor garden plots to help fund supplies and operations, including soil, tools, water access, infrastructure improvements, and community programming. Branford Community Gardens promotes organic gardening, sustainable growing practices, and local food access for residents. Organizers say the new sponsorship program will help strengthen longterm sustainability while supporting efforts to address food insecurity in the community. Sponsorships are available at multiple levels, and sponsors will be recognized at the garden, on the organization’s website, and in select promotional materials. For more information, email branfordctgardens@gmail.com or visit branfordctgardens.org.

Edward Smith Library Announces Temporary Closure

The Edward Smith Library in Northford is closed for approximately two to three months for a major HVAC system replacement project. Library officials anticipate reopening in early August. During the closure, patrons may use the Atwater Library, 1720 Foxon Road, for all library services. Atwater Library is serving as the sole pickup location for requested materials, and all library programs have been moved there during the closure. Materials may be returned to Atwater Library or to any Connecticut public library. Library staff continue to provide printing, scanning, information, and computer services at the Atwater location. Atwater Library hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Summer Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to noon. For more info, call 203-315-6020, visit nbranfordlibraries.org, or follow the library on social media.

NOTICE

The 105th Annual Meeting of the Civic Association of Short Beach will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 7:00 P.M. at Orchard House, 421 Shore Drive, Branford, CT.

Agenda: (1) election of Executive and Zoning Board of Appeals members, (2) presentation of income and expenditures, (3) budget, (4) report on issues of current interest and (5) consideration of issues raised by members of the Association.

By: The Executive Board

Civic Association of Short Beach

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF BRANFORD

The Planning & Zoning Commission of the Town of Branford, Connecticut hereby gives notice of Public Hearings to be held on Thursday June 4, 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#26-17 Special Exception for a Major Home occupation located at 19-25 Fairlawn Avenue

Jonathan Morasutti -Applicant & Owner.

2. Application PZ#26-15 Special Exception for Grading (Sec. 6.8) located at 850 West Main St. for the construction of a retail building.

Kevin Sisc0-Applicant.

SBC Real Estate Group- 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

Rotary Installs Second Purple Pantry Box in Branford

Press Release from the Branford Rotary Club

The Branford Rotary Club on Saturday installed a second Purple Pantry Box in town, providing shelf-stable foods to anyone in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The new pantry box was placed outside the Branford Community House, 46 Church St. The club also built and installed a collection box for food donations in the lower lobby of the Community House. The first Purple Pantry Box, installed last year, is located at the Soundview Family YMCA, 758 E. Main St., which also serves as a donation location.

The project was part of Rotary’s “Epic Day of Service,” a one-day event in which Rotary clubs around the world complete community service projects. In Branford, Rotarians and community volunteers installed a stone path and the pantry box, as well as a purple donation box built by Rotarian John McColl with materials provided by Branford Building Supplies and Burban’s Landscaping.

“Hunger in our community is a need we all should address, and I’m very proud of Rotary members and thankful for partners like Branford Building and Burban’s for

stepping up,” Branford Rotary President Tery Elton said in a release. “Because they’re available day and night, the Purple Pantry Boxes are a wonderful complement to the existing resources we have in town, like the Branford Food Pantry and Community Dining Room, making food available during hours when those facilities aren’t open.”

The Purple Pantry Boxes are continually replenished food pantries intended to encourage people to “Take what you need, and donate what you can.” There are no eligibility requirements to receive food. Residents may donate factory-sealed, shelf-stable foods at the Community House lower lobby or the Soundview Family YMCA front desk.

“We’re excited to see this come to life and are proud to partner with Branford Rotary by hosting a Purple Pantry Box,” Dale Izzo, director of Parks, Recreation & Senior Services, said in the release. “Our missions align in bringing the community together through acts of kindness, compassion and support — helping ensure that no family faces food insecurity alone.” Thousands of Rotarians from clubs in more than 10 countries participated in this year’s Epic Day of Service event.

NOTICE OF DECISION

Notice is given of the following decisions made by the Town of Branford’s Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission at the Regular Meeting held on Thursday May 14, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.

The following application was approved with conditions:

a) IW-26-9 | 187 Cherry Hill Rd EXT | construction of a single-family home, pool and grading and earth work The following application was approved with conditions administratively by a Duly Authorized Agent in May: a) IW-26-17 | 52 South Montowese St | shed

Peter Bassermann, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE

NORTH BRANFORD PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION

Notice is hereby given that the North Branford Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at the North Branford Town Hall, 909 Foxon Rd., North Branford, CT to consider the following:

A. Appl. #2026-4, 36 Woods Hill Road – Special Use Permit request under Section 44.6.1.f, for the construction of an oversized detached garage (46’ x 36’, 1,697 sf) for vehicle storage and workshop area in the rear yard. Owner: Traci Planinshek/Applicant: White Engineering

B. Appl. #2026-1, Zoning Text Amendment – update Schedule A – Table of Uses, revise Restaurant regulations (Continued from April 2, 2026). Applicant: North Branford Planning & Zoning Commission

At this hearing, all interested persons may appear and be heard and written communications will be received. Copies of proposals are on file for public inspection in the Town Hall Planning Department.

Robert Nowak, Chairman

RTM Approves $148.6 Million Budget

Continued from page 1

the meeting, BOF Chair Joseph Mooney said increased state education aid, ambulance revenue, building permit revenue, and interest income helped offset some budget pressures while allowing the town to reduce reliance on fund balance appropriations.

The budget includes a 4.3% increase in Board of Education (BOE) spending and a 19.2% increase in debt service expenditures. Public safety spending would increase 3.4%, while town capital spending would increase 5.3%, according to budget documents.

BOF documents also note the addition of two patrol officers in the Police Department budget.

The RTM approved the BOE budget by roll-call vote, with one dissenting vote from Representative James Healy.

Several amendments were made during the meeting.

RTM members voted to reduce funding for a proposed geothermal feasibility study from $90,000 to $45,000 following discussion about the project’s scope and cost.

Members also approved a $50,000 reduction to employee group insurance funding and transferred $10,000 from sidewalk repairs to the Town Center Maintenance Fund.

The RTM additionally approved creation of a $1.5 million Board of Education Electrification Fund using appropriations from the town’s fund balance.

Members also approved a solar power purchase agreement between the town and Connecticut Green Bank to provide electricity to Branford High School and Police Headquarters.

Several ordinance-related items, including proposals involving a senior property tax freeze, a traffic authority ordinance, and designation of Jefferson Place as a town road, were re-referred for further consideration.

In his transmittal letter, Mooney described the spending plan as “a balanced and responsible plan” that provides departments with resources needed to operate while maintaining a “fiscally responsible approach to future uncertainties.”

Legacy Theatre Announces Auditions for The Wizard of Oz

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 legacytheatrect.org.

Tom Cleveland: Restoring a River’s Return

Continued from page 2

effort centered on river herring, including alewives and blueback herring, migratory fish that historically traveled up Branford waterways each spring to spawn.

Before dams blocked access to upstream habitats, Tom says enormous numbers of herring once moved through Connecticut rivers and streams.

“We estimated that there had been about 10 to 20 tractor loads of fish which would come in every spring,” he says. “These fish used to have a real impact with their runs.”

By the early 2000s, however, the fish no longer could reach their ancestral spawning grounds near Supply Ponds because of an aging dam system along Queach Brook.

Tom says the project gained momentum after a DEEP fisheries biologist visited the Branford Land Trust to discuss migratory fish restoration and recognized the watershed’s potential.

“He knew how clean the water was and knew that the municipality owned the dam, which made it a lot easier to work with,” Tom says.

Over the next several years, the project evolved into a major collaboration involv-

ing state and federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, engineers, conservation groups, and the town of Branford. Tom helped coordinate fundraising efforts that eventually secured roughly $200,000 for the project.

“This took two to three years to raise the money, hire engineers, get permits, and convince the town to hire a contractor,” he says.

Construction of the fish ladder was completed in 2005, allowing herring once again to move upstream into spawning areas that had been inaccessible for generations.

Since then, the ladder has steadily supported growing fish runs. Tom says the project saw a particularly large increase over the past two years.

“In 2025, we saw 23,000 fish,” he says.

The project also transformed the area itself into a public gathering space. Built in part with Stony Creek granite, the fish ladder and surrounding berm now attract residents who come to fish, walk, or simply observe the annual migration.

“It is a beautiful place,” Tom says.

Despite the progress, Tom says significant challenges remain for river herring populations, particularly from commercial fishing practices that unintentionally

catch herring while targeting other species offshore.

“If humans didn’t catch them, they’d come back in hundreds of thousands,” he says.

Tom hopes future efforts will focus not only on restoring habitats, but also on educating younger generations about migratory fish and watershed ecosystems.

“The cool thing about the way the ladder was built is that it is low maintenance and could last another 50 years without any investment,” he says.

Recently, the Branford Land Trust and project supporters celebrated the fish ladder’s 20th anniversary with a public event attended by more than 100 people.

“There were hundreds of fish below the ladder waiting to run up it and everyone could see fish,” Tom says. “It was a great time.”

For Tom, the project represents more than environmental restoration. It reflects the long-term impact communities can have when conservation, education, and public access come together around a shared goal.

“The land trust continues to work with the town of Branford and it is a special thing,” he says.

The United Methodist Church (UMC), Branford now offers Sunday School during its 9:30 a.m. worship service. Young children will join their families in the sanctuary at the start of service. After the children’s message by Pastor Barbara Marks, they will head to the education wing. Located at 811 East Main Street, UMC Branford welcomes everyone to its Sunday worship services. For more information, contact 203-488-0549 or umcbranford1966@gmail.com.

The United Methodist Church, 811 East Main Street, Branford, celebrates worship services every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. The church also has its Prayer Shawl Ministry at 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday, when those who can knit or crochet can use their talents by creating shawls as a way to reach out to people in need of comforting. Still another ministry is Sewing for God, a venue for quilters to gather and create quilts to be distributed to those in need. All materials are provided. The group meets at 1 p.m. every Monday. The church also has Bible study small group every Tuesday at 7 p.m. and Thursday at 10 a.m. For more information or schedule updates on these and other ministries, contact the church at 203488-0549 or umcbranford1966@ gmail.com, or visit umcbranford.org.

Would you like to be outdoors, get a good workout, meet like-minded people, and help the environment and community at the same time? If so, then Branford Land Trust (BLT) welcomes you as a volunteer. From spring through fall, the Native Plant Protection Corps works to suppress nonnative, invasive plant populations on BLT and town preserves. On the third Saturday morning of each month, year-round, work parties keep trails clear, pick up trash, remove invasives, and improve drainage and water crossings. Also, every Monday and Wednesday, year-round, the trails crew clears downed trees, prepares fields for mowing, performs larger-scale invasive control, builds and repairs bridges, and works to keep trails safe and passable. Volunteers work as their schedules allow, and all are welcome. For more information, contact 203-483LAND (5263) or info@branfordland trust.com.

Boots Is A Hoot!

Story by Carol Andrecs

Sweet, petite Boots suddenly found herself all alone when her owner passed away not long after giving birth. Luckily, that sadness did not affect her personality at all. This 6-year-old calico is the real deal. Boots is super affectionate, very playful, and the true definition of a lap cat. She jumps right up whenever someone sits down. You will be fascinated by her striking colors and markings, as well as her animated antics. Stop by during our open house events to meet petite Boots, or apply online to adopt her at Forgotten Felines.

Find Your Match At Forgotten

Volunteers Needed Felines

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

: Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. The organization is always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep the 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.

The Shore Line Trolley Museum is seeking volunteers for its Speaker’s Bureau program, sharing the story of the museum’s background, artifacts, restored trolley collection, and how the trolley system shaped the state and was the first “green” mode of transportation. Audiences range from school children to seniors to rail fans, either on-site or at remote locations. Materials are provided and volunteers will be trained to set up a conference room or meeting hall. The Shore Line Trolley Museum runs its trolleys on the last remaining 1 ½ miles of the Connecticut Company’s New Haven line, making it the oldest continuously operated suburban street railway system in the U.S. For more information, contact 203-467-6927 or info@shorelinetrolley.org.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1382 Middletown Avenue, Northford, celebrates Sunday worship at 10 a.m. followed by refreshments and fellowship. The church is also open to all in the community on Tuesdays for a noontime worship service and for individual prayer from noon to 2 p.m. St. Andrew’s supports many community programs and contributes regularly to the North Branford Scholarship Program, North Branford Social Services (NBSS) Thanksgiving Basket Share and Christmas gift and food basket share programs, NBSS back-to-school backpacks, clothing donations (donation shed located at the back of the church parking lot), and more. A number of fundraising events are held throughout the year to help the church to help its neighbors, such as an annual rhubarb fest, summertime ice cream socials, and the annual harvest supper. All are invited to the events and help the church help neighbors. Additionally, the church’s parish hall is available for rent for birthday parties, showers, receptions, and others. The Rev. Bryan Spinks is St. Andrew’s priest; Nan Monde is senior warden. For more information please contact Nan at 203-7107005 or visit standrewsnorthford.org.

Photo by Emily Burr

St. Andrew’s Offers Worship and Outreach

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Every year, Shore Publishing/Zip06.com recognizes 15 volunteers in the communities we serve who help fulfill the Shoreline’s promise as a place of opportunity, wellbeing, and safety for all. The honorees will be celebrated at a special event at Woodwinds on June 24th surrounded by their peers and fellow community leaders.

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Fun By The Numbers

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

How It Works:

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

Branford Boys Lax Enters Postseason Battle-Tested

By Serenity J. Bishop

spent building team chemistry and learning how to play together. The Hornets have earned several key victories this season, but they will need to put together another strong stretch of play to accomplish their postseason goals.

The Branford Hornets finished the regular season 12-4, with three of the four losses coming in close games against Amity, Old Saybrook, and Hamden. Both Old Saybrook and Amity finished the season with double-digit victories.

The only game in which the Hornets were clearly overmatched came against

tle-tested this season against strong competition and will enter the postseason prepared. Branford coach Jim May said the regular season has prepared the team for what lies ahead, and that the conference tournament will help further prepare the Hornets for the state tournament.

“Eleven out of 16 teams we played in the regular season are moving onto the playoffs in their respective classes,” May said.

“That in itself has definitely prepared us. As a group, we obviously watch film on all of our opponents, which is a big deal to get prepared.”

you for the speed of the game, especially in the state playoffs.”

The SCC boys lacrosse tournament will feature a competitive group of teams, with Branford entering as the sixth seed. Powerhouse Fairfield Prep sits atop the conference, followed by Notre Dame-West Haven. Guilford enters the tournament as the No. 3 seed despite finishing with the conference’s best regular-season record at 13-3.

Cheshire is seeded fifth, followed by Daniel Hand, which finished the regular season 9-7.

2005 and 2007.

Branford will open the postseason with a difficult road matchup against Guilford. May said the team is approaching the postseason with the added motivation of knowing every game could be its last.

“We are going into every game from here on out, knowing it could be our last and expecting to win,” May said. “It’s our die, rock, and kill attitude.”

While Branford battles through the conference tournament, the Hornets will also await the Class M State Tournament, where they are currently ranked seventh.

Photo courtesy of Jim May

Branford boys lacrosse finished the regular season 12-4.

Sports Editor

Branford Teams Head Into Postseason Play

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The Branford Hornets’ spring sports teams have found success this season. Several teams have qualified for the state tournament, and some have already begun their postseason push with the start of the Southern Connecticut Conference Tournament.

Here is a recap of the baseball, softball, boys lacrosse, and girls lacrosse teams as they conclude the regular season and prepare for postseason play:

Baseball

The Branford Hornets baseball team had a solid regular season. The Hornets finished 10-10, earning a spot in the postseason after securing their eighth win against Wilbur Cross.

Despite a fast start that featured a sixgame winning streak, Branford struggled during the second half of the season. The Hornets closed the regular season with a 7-1 victory over Shelton to boost morale heading into the postseason and snap a three-game losing streak.

The Hornets will have time to rest this week after failing to qualify for the conference tournament. Branford enters the Class L State Tournament as the No. 21 seed.

Softball

The Branford softball team experienced plenty of change this season. The Hornets featured a new coach in Theresa Kane along with several new players as the program continued its rebuilding process.

Entering the season, the team focused more on developing good habits than on wins and losses. Branford finished 4-15 but earned its final victory of the season in the finale against Portland.

The Hornets defeated Portland 2-0 to send the seniors out on a positive note and provide momentum heading into next season. The future remains promising as Branford continues to develop its young talent.

Volunteer Opportunity to Help Others

Girls’ Lacrosse

The girls and boys lacrosse programs were among the highlights of Branford’s spring sports season, as both teams reached double-digit victories. Under coach Caitlin O’Brien, the girls lacrosse team finished 13-3 and closed the regular season with a three-game winning streak, including a 13-3 victory over Glastonbury.

The girls lacrosse team enters the SCC tournament as the No. 4 seed behind topseeded Daniel Hand, No. 2 Guilford, and No. 3 Cheshire.

The Hornets will be motivated to return to the conference championship game after

falling to Amity Regional in last year’s title game. The SCC tournament could also preview the Class M state tournament, as Daniel Hand and Branford are the top two seeds in the state bracket.

Boys Lacrosse

The Branford boys lacrosse team finished the regular season 12-4, with three of its four losses coming in close contests against Amity, Old Saybrook, and Hamden. Both Old Saybrook and Amity finished the season with double-digit victories.

The nonprofit hospice program of Yale Health at Home has volunteer opportunities in the following areas: patient/caregiver companions; complementary therapies, including massage, Reiki, reflexology, pet therapy, art, and music; bereavement and spiritual support; and veteran-to-veteran. Volunteers receive free mandatory screenings, training, the support and appreciation of a team, and more. Volunteers can choose their preferred towns from those served by the hospice program, which include Branford, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, East Haven, Essex, Guilford, Killingworth, Madison, North Branford, North Haven, Northford, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. For more information, contact Ericka Copeland at 203-453-7659 or Ericka.copeland@ynhh.org, or visit ynhhs.org/health-athome/about/volunteer.

The SCC boys lacrosse tournament features another competitive field, with Branford entering as the No. 6 seed. Fairfield Prep sits atop the conference standings, followed by Notre Dame-West Haven. Guilford enters the tournament as the No. 3 seed despite posting the conference’s best regular-season record at 13-3.

Branford opens postseason play with a difficult road matchup against Guilford. While competing in the SCC tournament, the Hornets will also await the Class M State Tournament, where they are currently ranked seventh.

Photo courtesy of Stephen Malafronte Branford baseball finished the regular season with a 10-10 record.

By Susan Cornell

Discovering Northern Italy Aboard a Luxury Barge

Our final cruise, on yet another sunny 70-degree day, brought a dramatic approach to Mantua, home of artists Andrea Mantegna and Donatello. This may have been my favorite stop of the trip. We started the day riding the bike path around Lago Inferiore before trading the bikes for a walking tour of the city.

Mantua’s historic center is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and this hidden gem — or “Sleeping Beauty” (Bella addormentata) — of Italy is less crowded than Venice while still offering the same sense of history and ancient-city charm. We visited Basilica di Sant’Andrea and La Cattedrale di Mantova before discovering an unexpected treasure: Museo

Vigili del Fuoco, the National Gallery of Historical Firemen, which houses a sizable collection of fire vehicles and memorabilia. We met Lorenzo, a historian and tour guide, at Palazzo Te. The villa, built outside Mantua’s city walls, was commissioned by Federico Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua, as a place of leisure where he could spend time with his mistress and keep his beloved horses.

The palace is known for its elaborate frescoes, and each chamber has its own theme, including the Room of Psyche, featuring mythological and erotic scenes; the Room of Eagles; and the Room of the Horses. In the most famous chamber, the Hall of the Giants, the walls and ceilings depict the gods of Olympus crushing the Titans, symbolizing the power of the emperor over the city and the duke’s loyalty to the empire.

Our final evening aboard ended with drinks and hors d’oeuvres with our captain, followed by the captain’s farewell dinner featuring a selection of Mantua’s local specialties.

See Discovering page 25

Day 6 — Friday (Venerdì)

Photos by Bob and Susan Cornell

A bicyclist rides through a quiet cobblestone street in Mantua, Italy, one of the final stops on the European Waterways La Bella Vita cruise.

A historic castle surrounded by water stands along the cruise route through northern Italy.

Vintage Italian fire vehicles are displayed inside Museo Vigili del Fuoco, Mantua’s National Gallery of Historical Firemen.

Special to Living

Photos by Bob and Susan Cornell

Susan and Bob Cornell pose with bicycles beside European Waterways’ La Bella Vita during their northern Italy barge cruise.

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

THURSDAY, MAY 28

Craft and Board Game Night

: 6 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Evening of crafts and games for all ages. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, email SMehmet@clintonct.gov or visit hchlibrary.org.

American Girl Doll Club

: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 188 Route 81. Program with story, activity, and craft. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Evenings with Psychic Medium Tracy Ann

: 6 to 8 p.m.

Women and Family Life Center, Carriage House, 96 Fair St., Guilford. A group-style reading event. Benefits programs and services supporting women and families. Cost: $45. For info or tickets, contact 203-458-6699 or info@womenandfamilylife.org, or visit womenandfamilylife.org.

Stony Creek Forum: Why Is Everybody Talking About AI: And What Is It Anyway?

: 7 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features a talk by Jeffrey Davitz on artificial intelligence. For info or to register, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.

Calendar for the Week of May 28, 2026

Evening of Guitar at the Blackstone:

6 to 7:30 p.m.

James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Program featuring performance and discussion. Free. Registration required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 29

Fourth Grade “Dance Into Summer” Social

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. The Madison Arts Barn, 8 Campus Dr., Madison. Features music, dancing, games, activities, and café snacks available for purchase. Beach-themed clothing encouraged. For info or to register, visit madisonartsbarn.org.

See page 26

Tony Surprises, Searching for Sandy, and Broadway Returns

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York professional theater

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

Aisle ON THE

Ending the Season Great for Kids

for Elephants

: The Bushnell’s Broadway series ends with the national tour of from Tuesday, June 2, through Sunday, June 7. The musical adaptation of the popular novel is about the adventures of a young man who literally runs away and joins the circus. Tickets are available at Bushnell.org.

of Annie was in rehearsal. He was asked to find a dog; he did, and he trained the original Sandy. Thus, a career was born. All his dogs live with him and his family in Connecticut.

Two Adventuresome Choices

: MTC

The Wiz Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas Beetlejuice The Book of Mormon Heathers the Musical

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

LA Law Reunion

Sardi’s

: I saw , based on the children’s books by Arnold Lobel, on Broadway and was enchanted by the inventive musical. West Hartford’s Playhouse on Park is presenting the musical as part of its Theatre for Young Audiences Series through June 6. It’s recommended for children from pre-K through grade 5. For tickets, contact PlayhouseOnPark.org.

Come, Sit, Stay

A Year with Frog

: Goodspeed isn’t producing until November, but already the theater and Bill Berloni are searching animal shelters for the perfect dog to play Sandy. Berloni, who now trains and provides dogs for many shows on Broadway and around the country, was just an intern at Goodspeed when the original production

Harmony

(Music Theatre of Connecticut) in Norwalk has announced two adventuresome choices for next year’s season. It will open with (Sept. 11-27), 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. 6-22, is . In the new year is (Feb. 5-21), based loosely on Shakespeare’s . The season will conclude with (April 16-May 2), based on the film inspired by the popular game. For information and dates when subscriptions and tickets for individual productions will be available, visit MTCofCT.com.

: Not quite, but several members of the cast of the popular TV series — Michael Tucker, Jimmy Smits, and Jill Eikenberry — will be at Westport Country Playhouse on Monday, June 7, for the Playhouse’s almost monthly “Script in Hand” series. The three will be reading a play by Tucker, , described as a “warm and wise comedy.” Tickets for this one-night-only reading can be purchased at WestportPlayhouse.org.

NYC Notes The Book of Mormon

Always ... Patsy Cline Desperate Measures – A Musical Comedy Gone Wild Measure for Measure Clue

Next Year at the Shubert

: The

A Tailor Near Me Queen of Versailles

Some Tony Surprises — or Maybe Not

: The Tony Award nominations, as usual, left out some productions and performers, though perhaps some of them did not really deserve nominations. , the Stephen Schwartz musical starring Kristin Chenoweth, was totally shut out; that’s not surprising because the show received poor notices. More surprising was that the revival of , starring Neil Patrick Harris, James Corden, and Bobby Cannavale, received no nominations, nor did the current revival of Jean Smart was not nominated for her role in Izzy. Among the established stars

not getting nominations were Jon Bernthal, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Adrien Brody, Tessa Thompson, and Lea Michele. : The famed restaurant Sardi’s, known for its opening-night parties and its walls full of caricatures of actors, directors, playwrights, and more, was sold to The Shubert Organization. The restaurant will be open through Wednesday, June 24, and then close for renovations. It originally opened in 1927. No reopening date has been announced. : was shut down for two weeks or so following a fire. , the parody of the famed 1997 film set to the songs of Celine Dion, has extended its Broadway run through Sept. 20. The revival of has also extended its Broadway stay; it was to close July 19 but now will play through Nov. 29. Other productions that have extended their runs include (now through July 26), (through Aug. 2), and , which has moved its closing date from July 26 to Aug. 30.

Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident. Titanique The Rocky Horror Show Joe Turner’s Come and Gone Ragtime Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Art Proof

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

Discovering Northern Italy Aboard a Luxury Barge

Continued from page 23

Inside and Outside La Bella Vita

There were two junior suites, each measuring 135 square feet, on the main deck. My husband and I stayed in one of the eight standard cabins on the lower deck. Though our cabin measured only 105 square feet — smaller than cabins on most cruises — we weren’t bothered. Having owned boats for 30 years, we were accustomed to compact quarters. For us, a cabin is simply a place for sleeping, showering, and storing belongings. We spend most of our time outdoors onboard or exploring ashore.

La Bella Vita featured spacious public areas on both the main and sun decks. The main deck included a living room with five leather couches, a piano, a bar, and an espresso machine.

Next to the living room was the dining area, which could seat 20 passengers but was arranged for our group of nine. A blackboard in the corner listed the menus.

The room also featured a large refrigerator stocked with drinks, all included in the cruise price along with meals and excursions, so there were no surprises at disembarkation.

The entire upper deck was open, offering excellent views of the passing scenery along the lagoon and canals. Two large tables sheltered by awnings provided ample shade. This quickly became a favorite gathering place for our group to enjoy sailing, refreshments, and conversation.

Six bicycles and a hot tub were also located on the top deck.

The cuisine and wine were consistently outstanding, perhaps the best of any cruise we’ve experienced. The

service was stellar, and the excursions were interesting and well organized. The ship itself dates to 1960, but it is a barge after all, and its age adds character and charm.

One of the things I appreciated most about European Waterways was that, while traveling aboard a cruise, guests still visit local restaurants, cafes, and villas because European Waterways arranges these experiences as part of the trip.

Excursions were offered once or twice daily. We joined every one of them but also discovered some of our favorite moments while exploring independently. It’s wonderful to wander without a plan and discover surprises not found in guidebooks — anything from a small museum to genuine encounters with locals who were often just as curious about the strangers arriving by barge as we were about them and their traditions.

Every stop was walkable, and we averaged 6.5 miles a day, though we could just as easily have relaxed in La Bella Vita’s hot tub while watching the scenery drift past.

If immersive luxury travel with a small group of likeminded travelers appeals to you, a European Waterways hotel barge cruise may be the perfect fit.

For more information, visit europeanwaterways.com.

Susan Cornell, owner of Moppet Magic Publishing and Public Relations, is an independently contracted photographer, marketing and public relations consultant, and writer specializing in business, boating, home and garden, and travel. She handles public relations for several art galleries and is the author of the children’s book “Essex Ed’s Groundhog Day Parade.” In her free time, she hikes, kayaks, serves on the advisory board for the Connecticut Sea Music Festival, and is a steward for the Essex Land Trust. Susan has two grown children and lives in Essex with her husband and rescue puggle.

Photos by Bob and Susan Cornell

Visitors gather in a lively piazza in Mantua, Italy, during the couple’s final days aboard La Bella Vita.

A detail from the famous frescoes at Palazzo Te in Mantua. Hall of the Giants

Photos by Bob and Susan Cornell

Fried vegetables and seafood are served aboard La Bella Vita during the weeklong European Waterways cruise.

Liz Egan Exhibit on Display at CBSRZ through July 31

Moments in Time

, an exhibit featuring 40 works by artist Liz Egan, is on display through Friday, July 31 at Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek (CBSRZ) in Chester.

The exhibit features both printmaking and painting — representational and abstract — created in response to moments from the artist’s life during the past six years.

Continued from page 24

“My work is a process that starts with observational drawing and plein air painting, then moves on to printmaking,” Egan said. “Acquiring an understanding of color, form, and composition by drawing inspiration from the natural world, I use this understanding as jumping-off points for silkscreen, linocut, and woodcut monotypes.”

“My focus is on communicating the feelings experienced by imagery rather than on simple

: 7 p.m. The Marketplace at Guilford Food Center, 77 Whitfield St., Guilford. Interactive performance featuring storytelling and audience participation to identify the one false story. Cost: $25 adults; $20 students. For info or tickets, visit greenstageguilford.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 29 THROUGH

SATURDAY, MAY 31

representation,” she continued. “My process of learning is to respond to a painting or the print by asking the question, ‘What does it need?’ Then, I take a risk by attempting the ‘what if?’ This grows my practice through discovery.”

Egan said she works in very small editions of four to six prints and allows each piece to “differentiate as needed.”

“These works are part of my personal growth as well as my

SATURDAY, MAY 30

response to the world around me,” she said. Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, known as CBSRZ, is devoted to living and teaching Jewish heritage while offering opportunities for spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth. The congregation’s name combines the names of two original synagogues in the lower Connecticut River valley that later merged into one congregation.

A reception with the artist will

Healthy Kids Day

take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, 55 Kings Highway, Chester. The public is invited, and kosher refreshments will be served. The synagogue, which features designs by artist Sol LeWitt, also offers exhibit viewing by appointment during regular business hours. For information, call 860526-8920 or contact Liz Egan at 860-304-7345.

Into the Woods :

: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Shoreline Theater Academy, 61 E. Main St., Clinton. Features a student production of Stephen Sondheim’s musical presented by Kidz Konnection. Cost: $15 to $20. For info or tickets, contact 860-227-2363 or shorelinetheateracademy@gmail.com, or visit shorelinetheateracademy.org.

RiverQuest Lighthouse Cruise to Old Saybrook

10 a.m. to noon. Connecticut River Museum, Steamboat Dock, 67 Main St., Essex. Features a narrated cruise along the Connecticut River to view Lynde Point and Saybrook Breakwater lighthouses, with information on local history, ecology, and wildlife. Cost: $40.50 to $45. For info or tickets, call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Community Ag Day

: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. Features educational exhibits and activities focused on agriculture, including animal husbandry, bee pollination, maple syrup production, farm equipment displays, a farmers market, food trucks, farm animals, and children’s activities. Hosted by the Guilford Agricultural Society. Free and open to the public. For info, visit guilfordfair.org.

Guilford Keeping Society House Tour 2026

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guilford Green, 96 Broad St., Guilford. Hosted by the Guilford Keeping Society. Features a self-guided tour of historic homes in downtown Guilford. Cost: $40. For info or tickets, contact 203-453-2263 or info@guilfordkeepingsociety.org.

: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Valley Shore YMCA, 201 Spencer Plains Rd., Westbrook. Family event with activities including petting zoo, pony visits, rock climbing, games, and more. Free. For info, call 860-399-9622 or visit vsymca.org.

From the Mountains to Broadway

: 5:30 p.m. Pine Orchard Chapel, 25 Chapel Dr., Branford. Features a musical performance by Broadway performer Jonathan Savage. Registration required. For info or to register, visit pineorchardchapel.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 31

Reception for

Honoring the Soul: Prayers and Images for Presence, Justice, and Peace

: 2 to 4 p.m. Mercy by the Sea Retreat and Conference Center, 167 Neck Rd. Features a reception for the exhibit of works by Rose Amodeo Petronella. Free and open to the public. Call in advance. For info, call 203-245-0401 or visit mercybythesea.org.

, 2021, oil, 8 x 8 v2

Self Portrait , 2021, acrylic, 14 x 11 On the Trail

, Silkscreen and Trace Monotype, 8 x 8 47th Mess , 2024, woodcut, 6 x 6, 10 x 10 framed

Simple Abundance

Press Release from Congregation

Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek

The Liar Show

New Haven Paint & Clay Club Exhibit Opens at GAC

Guilford Art Center will present an exhibition featuring work by members of the New Haven Paint & Clay Club from through Saturday, June 20.

The community is invited to a free opening reception from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 31, at Guilford Art Center. Awards will be presented at 2 p.m.

The New Haven Paint & Clay Club brings together artists committed to fostering artistic excellence while supporting and promoting the visual arts throughout the greater New Haven area and beyond. The organization showcases member and regional artists through annual exhibitions and community programming, including scholarships, lectures, merit awards, and artrelated activities.

“We are honored to welcome the New Haven Paint & Clay Club to Guilford Art Center,” Executive Director Maureen Belden said in a statement. “This exhibition celebrates the power of

Continued from page 26

MONDAY, JUNE 1

artistic expression and the vibrant cultural landscape of our community. We invite art enthusiasts of all ages to join us in experiencing the beauty and inspiration of these incredible artworks.”

Artwork and awards for this year’s open juried exhibition were selected by Nancy Stuart, retired dean of the Hartford Art School and current director of education at Five Points Arts in Torrington. According to organizers, the exhibit includes a wide range of traditional and contemporary works representative of the club’s exhibitions and permanent collection.

Visitors can expect a variety of styles and subjects, from traditional landscapes to abstract compositions.

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

For more information, contact Guilford Art Center at info@ guilfordartcenter.org or call 203453-5947.

The Future Impact of Artificial Intelligence, Part Two

10 a.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Presented by educator Harvey Heyman. This event is a continuation of the program held May 15, 2025, on the development of AI with video clips of leading thinkers and developers. 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.

Experiencing America Book Club

: 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Book:

No More

Tears: The Dark Secrets of Johnson & Johnson by Gardiner Harris

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

TUESDAY, JUNE 2

The Extraordinary Octopus

: 10 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Presented by MaryEllen Mateleska, senior director for education and conservation at the Mystic Aquarium. 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.

Pajama Storytime

: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Children may attend in pajamas with stuffed animals and blankets for stories, puppets, and activities featuring books by James Dean. Family members of all ages welcome. For info or to register (required), call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Bleeding Kansas, Chapter 2

: 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.

The Lisbon Traviata

: 7 p.m. The Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main St., Centerbrook. Presented by Brief Cameo Productions. Features a staged reading of Terrence McNally’s exploring themes of obsession, jealousy, and relationships through operacentered storytelling. Cost: $30. For info or tickets, contact 203-988-8430 or jim@briefcameoproductions.com, or visit briefcameoproductions.com.

The Lisbon Traviata

Faulkner’s Light Brigade Annual Membership Meeting

: 7:30 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, “Faulkner’s Room,” 32 Church St., Guilford. Features a presentation by a member of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Aids to Navigation Team, Sector Long Island Sound, on its responsibilities, including Faulkner’s Island Lighthouse. Open to members and the public. For info, call 203-4531111.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

Your Ticket to the Best State Fair Crafts with Smithsonian Curator Mary Savig

: 2 p.m. Via Zoom. Hosted by Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a virtual author talk on the history and significance of crafts at state fairs, including quilts and butter sculptures. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

The Thin Blue Lie

: 6 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features local author and former special agent Greg Dillon discussing his book . For info or to register (required), call 860669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Press Release from Guilford Art Center

Photo courtesy of Guilford Art Center

Chester Folk Fest Returns June 14

The second annual Chester Folk Fest will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 14, at the Chester Meeting House and on the Chester Green.

The festival, created by Steve Azzaro, celebrates singer-songwriters and original music with performances ranging from bluegrass and sea chanteys to American Songbook-inspired tunes and cowboy ballads. This year’s event will feature 10 acts — including solo performers, duets, and trios from Maryland to Massachusetts — performing original compositions and arrangements in 30-minute sets.

“I wanted to create a special space — a more formal setting — for them to share their music,” Azzaro said of the festival’s origins.

Indoor performances will take place inside the 230-year-old Chester Meeting House. Tickets are available for those performances, while activities on the Green are free and open to the public.

Shelby Howe, co-owner of Chester’s The Wayfinder Society and the festival’s stage manager, said the event offers audiences a chance to connect with musicians in a unique setting.

“One of the best things about being

backstage for Chester Folk Fest is that I get a glimpse into what it’s like for the performers,” Howe said. “I love hearing them warm up, and it’s neat to see their pre-performance rituals.”

The festival will also feature 29 artisans and vendors on the Green, including local honey from Sweet Willow Farm, walking sticks by Carl Wolf, vintage aprons and bags from The House She Loved, jewelry, handmade soaps, granola, and work by local zine creators. Complimentary face painting will be provided by Events from Sweet Caroline. Food vendors will include Linda’s Cucina, The Spotted Donkey, and Honeycone.

Families can also enjoy free mini concerts for children by Terri Lachance at 1 and 3 p.m. at the gazebo. Visitors are encouraged to bring picnic blankets or chairs to spend the afternoon on the Green.

Admission to Chester Folk Fest is free. Tickets for performances inside the Meeting House are $10 per person or $20 per family, with proceeds benefiting the Chester Historical Society’s Save the Mill Fund.

For tickets, parking information, and a full performance lineup, visit chesterhistoricalsociety.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 4

Immigrants: Connecticut’s Diverse Ethnic Heritage

: 10 a.m. Evergreen Woods, 88 Notch Hill Rd., North Branford. Presented by Bruce Clouette, a specialist in the field of Connecticut history and historic preservation. 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 203-4538086 or visit ssill.org.

Access Health CT

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features appointments with trained enrollment specialists for health insurance assistance. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Impact100 Southern Connecticut Membership Gathering

: 5 p.m. Safe Harbor Pilots Point South Yard, 63 Pilots Point Dr., Westbrook. Gathering featuring Impact100 founder Wendy Steele. For info or to register, call 860-573-2835 or president@impact100sct.org, or visit impact100sct.org.

Shoreline Opera Club Discussion of the Met in HD Live Broadcast:

El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Open to all. For info, email ShorelineOperaClub@gmail.com.

Adult Craft Night: Pressed Flower Lantern Jar

: 6 and 7 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Participants will make pressed flower lanterns from recycled glass jars with Adult Services Librarian Elizabeth Reinhart. Materials provided while supplies last. For adults ages 18 and up. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Drive-In Movie Night

: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Children may decorate cardboard-box “cars” and watch a storybook film while enjoying popcorn. Floor seating also available. For info or to register (required), call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Concert Underway: Ben Cosgrove

: 6:30

to 7:30 p.m. Aboard RiverQuest, Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Features a performance by Artist in Residence Ben Cosgrove, a composer and performer whose work explores themes of environment, place, and geography through

music. For info or tickets, call 860-7678269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Shoreline Sailing Club Nautical Tag Sale

: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. Features a nauticalthemed tag sale and information about club activities including sailing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and social events. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

Impact100 Southern Connecticut Big Give

: 10 a.m. Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Members will vote to award a $100,000 grant to one of four nonprofit finalists serving shoreline communities. Doors open at 9 a.m. Suggested donation $20. For info or to register, contact 860-5732835 or president@impact100sct.org, or visit impact100sct.org.

Writers Writing

: 1 to 2:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Ongoing writing workshop for adults and seniors featuring short stories, personal essays, novels, memoirs, and poetry. Participants may share their work and receive feedback. Sharing is optional. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Tweens Writing

: 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Final session before summer break for the writing program for ages 9 to 12. Participants will read selected works aloud for parents, relatives, and friends. Refreshments will be served. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Second Annual Killingworth Motown Music Festival

Continued from page 27 See page 29

: 5 p.m. Parmelee Farm, 465 Route 81, Killingworth. Features a free community concert with Motown music, food trucks, and activities benefiting Haddam Killingworth Youth and Family Services (HKYFS). For info, visit hkyfs.betterworld.org.

The Journey Home 2026 Gala

: 6 p.m. Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, 2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. Features a cocktail hour, dinner, silent and live auctions, and a program highlighting families and pets helped through emergency veterinary assistance grants. Proceeds benefit the Pieper Olson Foundation. For info, contact 412-853-2587 or info@pieperolsonfoundation.pet, or visit pieperolsonfoundation.pet.

Photo courtesy of Chester Folk Fest

Katy Tessman, an accomplished singer/song writer from Minnesota, will perform on June 14 at the Chester Folk Fest.

Press Release from Chester Folk Fest

Continued from page 28

FRIDAY, JUNE 5 AND

SATURDAY, JUNE 6

Plein Air by the Sea Competition and Sale:

Friday, noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Downtown Clinton, Clinton Town Beach, and Clinton Town Dock. Features artists painting outdoors at locations throughout Clinton as part of a plein air painting competition hosted by the Clinton Art Society. For info, email casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsociety.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 6

Shred-a-thon

: 9 a.m. to noon. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features secure on-site document shredding from participants’ vehicles. Prepaid cards available through Friday, June 5, at the library for $10 and valid for two copy-size boxes. Day-of-event cost: $7 for the first box and $5 for each additional box. Cash, card, and checks accepted. Proceeds benefit the James Blackstone Memorial Library. For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Spring Craft Festival

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. John School, 161 Main St., Old Saybrook. Event featuring vendors with handcrafted items, home décor, specialty foods, jewelry, and more. Raffle and Nearly New Shoppe; breakfast and lunch available. For info, call 860-227-0849.

: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Madison Green, 8 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Annual flea market with vendors, food, and the ABC Bike Sale. Free admission. For info, call or text 860227-8045.

: 10 a.m. Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln., Guilford. Kids Fun Run begins 9:45 a.m. Features a 5K run and walk benefiting child safety initiatives, followed by food, drinks, live music, and awards. Virtual participation option available. Cost: $35 for adults after May 31; $10 Kids Fun Run; $30 virtual participation. For info or to register, visit runsignup.com/Race/CT/Guilford/SongStrong5K.

Occasional Coffee House Hosts

Laura Clapp Album Release

Guilford native Laura Clapp will celebrate the release of her new live album during a special performance at the Occasional Coffee House at 7 p.m. Friday, June 5, at North Madison Congregational Church.

The evening will feature live local music in the venue’s listening-room setting, along with homemade gourmet cookies, coffee, tea, and what organizers describe as plenty of “good vibes and hometown goodness.”

The Occasional Coffee House is sponsored by Shoreline Pastoral Counseling and regularly features local and regional

Walk and Talk Forest Walk children’s olfactory walk. Hosted by the Friends of Chatfield Hollow State Park. Free and open to the public. For info, call Cheryl Buckley at 860-391-1919.

: 10 a.m. Chatfield Hollow State Park, 381 CT-80, Killingworth, Red Oak Lodge Building. Led by Connecticut DEEP State Forester Alexander Amendola. Features a discussion on the state of forests and concerns about trees on private property followed by a

Stony Creek Strawberry Festival

: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stony Creek Congregational Church, 192 Thimble Island Rd., Branford. Food includes hamburgers, hot dogs, and strawberry shortcake. Rain or shine. For info, contact 203-488-7827 or office@stonycreekchurchct.org.

Outdoor Storytime with A Place Called Hope

: 2 to 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features a bird-themed story and live birds from A Place Called Hope rehabilitation and education center. Sponsored by the Clinton Land Conservation Trust. For grades K to 4. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Reception and Awards for Plein Air by the Sea Competition and Sale

: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, Clinton Art Society Gallery, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Features an exhibition and sale of plein air paintings, awards presentation, and light refreshments. Free and open to the public. For info, email casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 6 AND

SUNDAY, JUNE 7

Pratt House Kickoff Weekend

musicians in an intimate concert setting. Milton Brasher-Cunningham and Heather Arcovitch will serve as hosts for the evening.

Organizers say the concert offers audience members an opportunity to experience Clapp’s music in a close-up setting while celebrating the release of her newest album.

Tickets are $23.18.

For tickets or more information, visit northmadisoncc.org/occasional-coffeehouse.

North Madison Congregational Church, known as the “Church at the Circle,” is located at 1271 Durham Road, Madison. For information, call 203-421-3241.

SUNDAY, JUNE 7

Community Worship Service

: 1 to 4 p.m. Pratt House, 19 West Ave., Essex. Features a Meet the Artist event with June–July featured artist Marsha Boreden. Free. For info, visit essexhistory.org. : 10 a.m. Parmelee Farm, 465 Rte. 81, Killingworth. Hosted by Emmanuel Church, Killingworth; St. James, Higganum; and St. Andrews of Northford as part of the Middlesex Area Cluster Ministry Network. Open to all spiritual backgrounds. For info, email roseprel@gmail.com.

Mountain Laurel Walk at Red Hill Woods Preserve

11 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a science program for ages 5 to 12

Trash Bash: Let’s Clean Up Our Planet! led by educator Stacey Giaquinto of Litter Awareness, LLC on littering and single-use plastics. Includes hands-on activities, an interactive clothing display made from plastics, and an eco-friendly craft. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

: 2 p.m. Red Hill Woods Preserve, Branford. Hosted by the Branford Land Trust. Features guided 1.2-mile and 1.6-mile walks through displays of blooming mountain laurel and along a section of the Branford Trail honoring trail founder Chet Blomquist. The longer walk includes the preserve’s elevated bogwalk. For info, call 203-483-5263 or visit branfordlandtrust.org.

Photo courtesy of the North Madison Congregational Church

Guilford musician Laura Clapp will perform at the Occasional Coffee House in Madison on Friday, June 5, celebrating the release of her new live album.

Press Release from the North Madison Congregational Church

Madison Lions Club Flea Market

SongStrong 5K

Pizza Documentary to Premiere at New Haven Museum

The New Haven Museum will host the premiere of , a documentary celebrating the world’s largest pizza party, at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 4.

The screening is part of the museum’s “Monthly Slice” series and accompanies the exhibition

Pronounced AhBeetz

. Admission is free with regular museum admission. documents New Haven’s September 2025 attempt to break the Guinness World Records title for the world’s largest pizza party by serving 10,000 slices to 4,525 people in three hours on the New Haven Green.

The film was directed by Gorman Bechard, whose previous work includes . Following the screening, pizza historian and entrepreneur Colin M. Caplan will lead a talk-back discussion featuring behindthe-scenes stories and details from the event.

“The film offers a tasty look at the greatest party of all time,” Bechard said in a statement. “And, if you were there, you might just be in it!”

The exhibition includes oral histories, pizza-related artifacts, photographs, and video footage connected to New Haven’s pizza culture. The exhibit title references the local pronunciation of “apizza,” derived from the Italian phrase “la pizza.” The exhibition will remain on view through October 2027.

Caplan is the founder of Taste of New Haven food tours and the author of several books on New Haven history, including . He also helped spearhead efforts declaring New Haven the Pizza Capital of the United States and Connecticut “The Pizza State.”

The New Haven Museum is located at 114 Whitney Ave. For more information, visit newhavenmuseum.org or call 203-562-4183.

Continued from page 29

Sunday Broadway Concert Series: Matt Doyle

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Island Rd., Branford. Features a performance by actor and singer Matt Doyle as part of the Sunday Broadway Concert Series. For info or tickets, visit eventvesta.com/events/139854/t/tickets.

Buddhism, Unitarian Universalism, and Hinduism

Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $10. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 9

From Forks to Pharmacies: America’s Obesity Crisis and the GLP-1 Fix:

Farmers Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds

: 4 to

7 p.m. Thursdays through October, weather permitting. Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. Features locally grown produce, baked goods, artisan breads, meats, seafood, fresh pasta, eggs, specialty foods, and Connecticut-made crafts. Rain or shine. For info, email farmersmarket@guilfordfair.org

Stony Creek Farmers’ Market

MONDAY, JUNE 8

Trip: Harkness Memorial State Park and Eolia Mansion in Waterford, Connecticut

: 2 to 4 p.m. Mercy by the Sea Retreat and Conference Center, 167 Neck Rd., Madison. Third in a three-part series called "To Love Your Neighbor, Know Your Neighbor,” featuring panel discussions surrounding nine faith traditions. Co-hosted by Mercy by the Sea and the Connecticut Council for Interreligious Understanding (CCIU). Free admission. For info or to register (required), call 203245-0401, ext. 114, or visit mercybythesea.com. : 9:30 a.m. Meet at St. George Church parking lot, 33 Whitfield St., Guilford. Features a docent-led tour of the 42-room Renaissance Revival mansion overlooking Long Island Sound and its elaborate gardens. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline

10 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Presented by Dr. Michael Saxe, former chairman of the Middlesex Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays, June 7 through Nov. 1. Bayview Park, Thimble Island Rd., Stony Creek. Features a weekly market with local produce, baked goods, seafood, meats, crafts, live music, and family activities. For info, call 203-988-9335 or email shreichert@gmail.com, or visit scfarmersmarket.org.

Theater

The Wizard of Oz

Farmers Markets

Dudley Farm Farmers' Market

: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 31. Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Features fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, handmade crafts, live music, children’s activities, and seasonal events. For info, email marketmanager@dudleyfarmfoundation.com or visit dudleyfarm.com.

: The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Island Rd.., Branford. Runs July 9 through Aug. 2. For info, call 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.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.

The Pizza Party

Pronounced Ah-Beetz

Pizza Party

Pizza: A Love Story

Pizza in New Haven

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

EAST HAVEN

MADISON

65 Nida Drive

: Charles A. and Nikki

S. Kubie to Roberta and Brock Freehling, $679,000 on May 4

: Steven Beresner to Christine Roll, $330,000 on May 5

: Cynthia Nardella to Timothy and Lauren Debaise, $340,000 on May 5

: Vincent M. Suraci to Angela Rolli, $174,900 on May 7 :

Michael F. and Danielle M. Barraco to Bita Taubes, $299,000 on May 4

: Jocelyn R. Pettenato to Francisco E. Rincon and Ana M L. Delgado, $302,500 on May 6

: Santha S. Rathnam to Taylor Teulings, $310,000 on May 7

Kimberly A. Placeaneta to Maureen Obuck, $345,000 on May 5

Jocelyn R. Pettenato to Francisco E. Rincon and Ana M L. Delgado, $302,500 on May 6

Alex J. Velardi to Madison O. Blakeslee, $248,000 on May 4

: Sharon W. Mrowka to Barry and Abigail Levine, $579,999 on May 4

Estate of Janet L. Sereyko and Dana Schmaltz to Alessandra Marchionni, $332,000 on May 8

: Nancy A. Ruggiero to Karen Foster, $100,000 on May 6

Sherry A. Morgan to Susan Ziegler, $450,000 on May 4

NORTH HAVEN

: Christopher P. Daigle to Jennifer Elizabeth Jakubiec,

: Rosaria and John H. Harris to Sonia M. and F J. GarzonGonzalez, $370,000 on May 4

: Estate of

Kathleen Grant and Russell Grant to Anthony B. Nucolo, $350,000 on May 7

: Estate of Rosemarie Lembo and Barbara Consolo to Aliz A. Arichabala and Jose V. Orellana, $290,000 on May 7

: Estate of Barbara Metzler and Donna Ryan to Nardo M. Nieto, $360,000 on May 4

: Mark E.

Toce to Daniel Mclawrence, $401,500 on May 7

Michael Datre to Alexandra Lamastra and Dominic Gregorio, $364,900 on May 4

: Yifei Jin to Pasquale Cannata, $502,500 on May 7 111 Cosey

Post Road

: Janet A. Riesman to William G. Butterly, $100,000 on May 7

: William H. and Andrea Creaser to Nicholas and Chelsea Vasquez, $1,400,000 on May 4

: Robert P. and Lorraine C. Graham to Michael P. Russell and Lauren A. Mclean, $700,000 on May 4

: Lorraine C

Hance Irt and Katherine H. Stella to Lori Markusfeld and Jeffrey C. Cole, $661,000 on May 5

: Adam and Stephanie Rowbotham to Sesna Shore LLC, $1,675,000 on May 4

: Eor Ianna B. Boschen to Peter Suneson, $440,000 on May 7

Estate of Gary A. Childress and Susannah Scally to Katya Svoboda, $1,050,000 on May 4

: Estate of Mary A. Kozma and Louis Kozma to Louis and Jennifer S. Altschuler, $210,000 on May 4

NORTH BRANFORD

40 Coach Drive

: Lisa Keller to John F. Cote, $475,000 on May 7 :

1789 Foxon Road Unit 1B

Fbmmoneybrookmead LLC to Jake Puciato, $190,000 on May 7

3 Glen Circle

: Peter M. and Mary B. Desantis to Peter and Diane Viauso, $625,000 on May 7

1877 Middletown Avenue

: Jason P. Capasso to Nicole Galati, $530,000 on May 5

12 Frost Drive $465,000 on May 6

: Kimberly W. Doheny to Timothy M. Doheny, $308,500 on May 6

: Elizabeth Capone to Justin Orcutt, $435,000 on May 5

: Marino 2019 Real Estate Trust and Wendy L. Marinelli to Allison Carroll and Collin Sweeney, $435,600 on May 4

Dgg Properties Co Inc to Mark V. and Rosemary E. Benevento, $19,500 on May 5 :

Dgg Properties Co Inc to Michele M. and James L. Bradley, $10,000 on May 5 : Dgg Properties Co Inc to Samantha P. and Chester S. Warner, $10,000 on May 5

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

You’re Invited to

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Shore Publishing’s annual Beacon Awards recognize outstanding individuals who selflessly step up to help fulfill the Shoreline community’s promise as a place of opportunity, well-being, and safety for all.

Each year we recognize, honor, and thank these distinguished members of the community for all they do at a dinner and celebration event.

THE WOODWINDS

29 SCHOOL GROUND ROAD • BRANFORD

$85.00 PER PERSON

$50 PER PERSON FOR PREVIOUS BEACON AWARDS WINNERS

Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and your choice of entrée.

Ticket purchase deadline is June 18th, 2026. Purchase tickets at beaconawardsct.com/tickets

Joseph Secki (Killingworth) | Laura Downes (Madison) | Virginia Baltay (Guilford)

Tristan Kiekel (North Branford) | Kyle Miller (East Haven)

Nancy Gray (North Haven) | Catherine Cook (Old Saybrook)

Nancy Morin (Old Saybrook) | Judy Morelli (East Haven)

Jennifer McNabola (Branford) | Colleen Cummings (Madison)

Meghan Abate (North Branford) | Jean Cotter (Branford) | Lee Cotter (Branford) Congratulations to our 2026 Honorees

The Sound 05-28-26

RTM Approves $148.6 Million Budget

Framing Community Support

Tom Cleveland: Restoring a River’s Return

Correspondent

Person of the Week

Branford Firefighters, EMS Providers Honored for Cardiac Arrest Saves

Orchard House Seeks Volunteers Planning to Go Abroad?

Programs Offered at W&FLC

Obituaries

Them With a Flag Program

Contacting The Sound

SPONSORED CONTENT:

Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

Branford Community Gardens

Launches Adopt-a-Plot Program

Edward Smith Library Announces Temporary Closure

NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF BRANFORD

Rotary Installs Second Purple Pantry Box in Branford

Press Release from the Branford Rotary Club

NOTICE OF DECISION

LEGAL NOTICE

NORTH BRANFORD PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION

RTM Approves $148.6 Million Budget

Tom Cleveland: Restoring a River’s Return

Boots Is A Hoot!

Volunteers Needed Felines

THE 2026

SEEKING SPONSORS FOR OUR 2026 EVENT

on the shoreline

RogeR CRampton

RogeR CRampton

Fun By The Numbers

How It Works:

Branford Boys Lax Enters Postseason Battle-Tested

Branford Teams Head Into Postseason Play

Baseball

Softball

Volunteer Opportunity to Help Others

Boys Lacrosse

Discovering Northern Italy Aboard a Luxury Barge

Tony Surprises, Searching for Sandy, and Broadway Returns

Aisle ON THE

Discovering Northern Italy Aboard a Luxury Barge

Inside and Outside La Bella Vita

Liz Egan Exhibit on Display at CBSRZ through July 31

Moments in Time

New Haven Paint & Clay Club Exhibit Opens at GAC

Chester Folk Fest Returns June 14

Occasional Coffee House Hosts

Laura Clapp Album Release

Pizza Documentary to Premiere at New Haven Museum

TUESDAY, JUNE 9

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

EAST HAVEN

MADISON

NORTH HAVEN

NORTH BRANFORD

You’re Invited to

THE WOODWINDS