The Sound 06-05-25

PhotosbyWesleyBunnell/TheSound

Thunderbirds Take Three

North Branford High School celebrated a championship sweep with three Shoreline Conference titles in three days. The girls lacrosse team raised the trophy after defeating Old Saybrook on May 29; softball players celebrated near home plate after topping Hale-Ray on May 30; and on May 31, Coach Billy Mitchell was doused after the baseball team’s 3-2 extra-innings win over Valley Regional.

June 5, 2025

Branford, North Branford & Northford

Vol. XXIX Iss. 23

Two Pulled from Branford Waters after Small Plane Crash

By Pam Johnson

Senior Staff Writer

Branford Fire Department (BFD) assisted the U.S. Coast Guard when two people were plucked from Long Island Sound after their small plane crashed into waters off the Thimble Islands mid-morning on June 1.

Both rescued individuals were treated for minor injuries and symptoms of hypothermia and then transported for further evaluation, according to BFD.

The small craft had been redirected to land at TweedNew Haven Airport in East Haven, according to reports. It went down in waters southeast of Outer Island near the Guilford line, according to information provided by BFD.

According to BFD, at approximately 10:30 a.m., Branford 911 received a call reporting a boat in distress.

“While responding, crews were updated that the incident was, in fact, a plane crash, with two individuals reported in the water,” BFD reported. “The Coast Guard was the first to arrive on the scene and successfully rescued two individuals from the water. By the time rescue crews arrived at the site, the aircraft had fully submerged.”

BFD reported Branford Marine 2 and Branford

See Two Pulled from Branford Waters page 4

Reaching Goals

The North Branford boys’ and girls’ outdoor track teams set several goals for themselves to start the season, and they far surpassed those goals this spring.................14

Bringing Bluebirds Home

A local couple is helping bring bluebirds back to Madison..................25

Shiavone Invites Shoreliners to Summer Learning at GAC

By Pam Johnson

Sound Senior Staff Writer

For Claudia Shiavone, seeing folks from the shoreline come together for summer programming at Guilford Art Center (GAC) is perhaps the most exciting time on campus. Drawing aspiring and accomplished artists from shoreline towns, including Guilford, Branford, North Branford, and beyond, non-profit GAC inspires and promotes community participation in the visual arts through education, exhibitions, and outreach.

From June through August, Claudia’s looking forward to seeing the interaction of kids, teens, adults, and creative minds of all ages unfold. Registration is underway now at guilfordartcenter.org for a wide range of exciting summer programming that will be filling the GAC buildings and grounds at 411 Church Street in Guilford.

“There are so many classes and workshops over the summer for all levels and at all different times of the day and evening and weekends,” says Claudia. “The campus is also just so beautiful. It really comes alive in the summer.”

One very special opportunity at GAC is

Person of the Week

its Summer Art Program for Kids, a nineweek art camp experience for ages 5 and up, which opens Monday, June 23, and runs through Friday, Aug. 22. With morning or afternoon sessions, GAC summer art camp offers a range of opportunities to explore art, develop new skills, and make friends in art. Working with experienced instructors, campers are exposed to a wide range of art, including blacksmithing, ceramics, drawing, painting, sculpture, sewing, metals, comic book making and characters, mixed media, kitemaking, drawing, monster art, and much more.

Registration is open through Tuesday, June 10, at guilfordartcenter.org.

Registration is also open now for teen and adult classes and workshops, which will keep GAC buzzing all summer with

busy and budding artists involved in many different mediums.

As a non-profit organization, GAC serves the shoreline beyond with classes, exhibitions, and events to support its mission of fostering a love and understanding of the visual arts.

Prior to taking on her new role in January as GAC’s ceramics studio manager, Claudia’s GAC connection includes being both a long-time ceramics instructor as well as a former studio assistant and student. During her years at GAC, Claudia has seen that initial GAC artistic childhood experience take root, turn into a passion, and become a life-long interest.

“We see kids coming in when they’re five years old, and then they’ll keep coming in as teens and young adults. I’m sure many of them are blowing away their high school classes with their skill levels, and then they go on to college, and they’re taking ceramics in college. So it’s really kind of exciting for us to see that happening,” Claudia says.

Claudia holds a B.A. in ceramics from Southern Connecticut State University. In

See Shiavone page 7

Branford Dental Care is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Ann Ruvolo, DMD, to our dental family! Please join us welcoming her to our office starting July 21st.

A little bit about Dr. Ann:

Education

Dr. Ann Ruvolo grew up in Carmel, NY, and earned a biology degree from Mount Saint Mary College. She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and completed a rigorous General Practice Residency at Danbury Hospital, where she gained advanced skills in comprehensive dental care.

Dr. Ruvolo is passionate about continuing education and has completed advanced workshops in crown lengthening, cosmetic flowable composites, smile design principles, and Invisalign treatment planning. She is a certified Invisalign provider and regularly attends regional and national dental conferences to stay current with evolving technologies and clinical techniques.

Professional Affiliations

Dr. Ann Ruvolo is an active member of the Greater Waterbury Dental Society, the Connecticut State Dental Association, and the American Dental Association.

Outside the Office

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Ruvolo enjoys a well-rounded lifestyle—spending time with her French Bulldog, Noah, and indulging in reading, yoga, fitness, crafting, and traveling with her significant other.

Photo courtesy Claudia Shiavone

For Claudia Shiavone, summer programming at Guilford Art Center (GAC) is perhaps the most exciting time on campus.

A Trio of Champions

The North Branford baseball, softball, and girls’ lacrosse teams all won the Shoreline Conference title last week ....................................................

Among the Elites

Several Branford athletes were named All-Conference last week, and boys’ tennis won in the opening round of the state tournament

Breaking Records

Djamilla Toukour has found a lot of success in the running lanes for Branford, as she has set school records and qualified for states in multiple events .......................................

“When the competitive season began, we could feel the energy continue to grow. It was evident something special was going oninclusivity, positivity, and hard work.”

Branford, North Branford, & Northford’s Hometown Newspaper

Founded in 1997

Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2025 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Two Pulled from Branford Waters after Small Plane Crash

Continued from page 1

Marine 5 were dispatched in response to the emergency. Additionally, local mutual aid partners from the towns of Guilford, East Haven, New Haven, and West Haven responded to the incident.

BFD reported both rescued individuals were transferred by the U.S. Coast Guard

to Branford Marine 5 for further transport to Stony Creek, with crews from Marine 5 and Marine 2 providing initial patient care. Branford Medic 3 ambulance transported the two from Stony Creek to receive further evaluation.

As of press time, the incident remained under investigation.

GACOpensRegistrationfor2024SummerYouthProgram

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

BRANFORD TOWN MEETINGS

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

Thursday,June5

Monday,June9

Tuesday,June10 Wednesday,June11

Thursday,June12 Planning and Zoning Commission

or visit the North Branford town website at www.northbranfordct.gov to learn how to participate in the following

Thursday,June12

Obituaries

Obituary Wendy Skelton

Guilford

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Wendy Rose Skelton, age 65, at her home in Guilford. She was freed of her earthly pain on April 27, 2025, after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. A private Celebration of Life was held at Rose Vineyards on May 5. Born in 1959, Wendy grew up on the Rose farm in North Branford. She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, David Skelton, whom she met at Southern Connecticut State University and then built a wonderful, busy life in Guilford. She also leaves behind her children: Aaron, Avery, Emma, and Alden Skelton; sisters Sara Querfeld (Rose) of Guilford and Diane Nunzianto (Rose) of North Branford; and her brothers, Alfred and Robert Rose of North Branford, along with their respective families. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world; she supported and loved her family deeply and never gave anyone opportunity to doubt it.

together a great Halloween costume: a skill she took to the next level when she annually transformed herself into the Witch of Sandy Hollow for the Rose Orchards Haunted Hayride. Her creativity and love for fun were apparent in everything she did.

Wendy and Dave loved the outdoors, on two occasions having traveled the U.S. for months on end to hike and camp in the U.S. National Parks. Her favorites were Acadia, Yosemite, Tillicum National Forest, and some special others we cannot share because she wanted to keep the best campsites secret. She visited the Grand Canyon but only peeked over the edge before disappearing to the motorhome to busy herself with making an apple pie — a distraction from her fear of heights. She was a ski instructor at Powder Ridge and hiked up Mount Washington multiple times, once even bringing ten of her young nieces and nephews along with her.

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Wendy graduated from North Branford High School in 1977, where she was active in field hockey and track and played the trumpet. She continued to appreciate any musical composition featuring the trumpet for the rest of her life. Her father nicknamed her "Nurse Jane Fuzzywuzz," due to her affinity for animals; she once raised a heifer named Picadilly and always ranked the cow as her favorite “pet."

Wendy was a master at making simple things special, with a low threshold to declare a party (It only takes one visitor to have a party!). She enjoyed simple pleasures: a glass of iced tea in the sun, working in her enviable perennial garden, time with family, and having her favorite fried shrimp from Lenny and Joe’s Fish Tale. She never took anything for granted and often remarked how lucky she was. Wendy coached youth soccer for Soccer Club of Guilford and was one of the first women in town to earn a coaching license. She enjoyed membership to the Goodspeed Opera House and was known for putting

Wendy valued camaraderie and hard work, stemming from her childhood on the dairy farm. When the barns burned to the ground in 1977, the farm transitioned to fruits and vegetables. Wendy relished the agricultural work and continued to do so into adulthood, picking and packing bin after bin of apples, hosting school field trips to the orchard, managing the pie bakery and creamery, and doing it all while being an exemplary mother to four children with daunting extracurricular schedules.

Wendy was known for her vibrant personality and always wore colorful outfits to match her happy disposition. Her defining characteristics were her constant smile and zest for life, her empathy, and her ability to keep the goal in mind when faced with a challenge. She could see the forest through the trees, and she was unstoppable. Her legacy is the unconditional love she showered on her family. We invite you to remember her not with sorrow but with the same enthusiasm and laughter she brought into our lives. In lieu of flowers, donations in Wendy’s memory may be made to the National Park Foundation (nationalparks.org), whose mission is to protect and enhance the parks Wendy loved.

See Obituaries page 12

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Shiavone Invites Shoreliners to Summer Learning at GAC

Continued from page 2

addition to teaching at GAC, she’s taught adult education courses and classes with the Branford After School Program. Her first GAC connection began in 1985 when she took a few adult pottery classes.

“It’s like a family there,” says Claudia of those who work together in GAC’s remarkable ceramics studio. “Everybody is so welcoming and helpful, from the instructors to the other students to the resident potter. Everybody’s there to help everyone else out. It’s a great place.”

The studio welcomes students of any ability, and that mix of experience is part of the magic.

“Beginners are mixed in with advanced students, so if you’re sitting on the wheel as a beginner, whoever’s next to you might lean over and say, ‘Hey, try this!’” says Claudia. “It’s just a great place. And that’s just in the pottery studio.”

With its wide range of options to develop abilities in many mediums for kids, teens, and adults, GAC has something for everybody.

“I would say that’s the best thing about Guilford Art Center — there are so many opportunities to try different things out,” says Claudia. “The instructors are very knowledgeable, and they’re all great teachers. They just offer such a variety of courses to choose from, like jewelry making, weaving, different two-dimensional art. I’ve taken different painting classes, and it’s the same thing as the pottery studio - it’s all levels, and everyone helps you out, and you become close in the course of the class.”

GAC is also notable for having one of the most well-equipped instructional ceramics studios in the area.

“We have a lot of different opportunities

because we have our studio and the space outside. We have a lot of firing techniques that we can use - you can do a Raku firing, a pit firing, the gas firings; you can experiment with glazes,” says Claudia.

Running safety-minded Raku firings outdoors is always an especially exciting event for her students and for Claudia.

“You bring the kiln to temperature in an hour, and then you open the kiln up, and the glaze is molten — it looks like a volcano. You take the pots out with tongs and put them into a barrel of newspapers and sawdust, which flares up; and then you close the lid, and an hour later, you take out your finished piece with its iridescent colors. It’s just such a blast,” she says.

Claudia says an important component of every GAC experience is the center’s warm and welcoming environment, which encourages students of all abilities. She truly enjoys sharing that sentiment in the pottery studio.

“When you have a mixed class, it can be very intimidating for first-time students when other people are throwing beautiful forms, and you’re trying to get something that’s round off the wheel,” says Claudia. “One of the things I keep trying to say to them is that we all started there. Our first pots were an inch tall, and they weren’t round! I say, ‘Just wait — when you glaze it, you’re going to end up liking it!’ Everybody started in the same place, and I think that’s why everybody is so encouraging to new students.”

Claudia especially noticed the special atmosphere after students were allowed to come back following the pandemic shutdown.

“Students returned with such a longing for the community and the feeling they have when making art. I think everyone recognized and appreciated how much

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF BRANFORD

ATTENTION DOG OWNERS: JUNE IS DOG LICENSING MONTH

Dog licenses are available beginning June 2, 2025 in the Branford Town Clerk’s Office. By Connecticut General Statute (§22-337-359c), all dogs six months and older are REQUIRED to be licensed by law. There are applicable fines for failure to license a dog. Planning a vacation? Boarding and doggie day care now require proof of licensing.

$ 8.00 Fee for spayed or neutered dogs

$19.00 Fee for dogs not spayed or neutered

$1.00 Late fee added per month starting 7/1/25

Licensing requests may be made via mail or in-person accompanied by a certificate of proof for spay/neuter if the dog has not previously been registered in Branford. A current rabies certificate is also required. Payment by cash or check only. Further information may be obtained at www.branford-ct.gov .

Lisa

they depend on the studio for both their social and mental health!”

Speaking of socializing, GAC also offers special options such as birthday parties and group sessions for kids, teens, and adults, she notes.

“If you have a group of people, whether it’s a birthday party or not, they will find an instructor for your interest. I teach a Friday night class twice each term where participants can make a pot and glaze it in the same night, and so people can request that as a group. There’s a lot of opportunities for both adults and kids of all ages to have special events there.”

As one who has experienced other studios and art enclaves and has shown her work in gallery shows in Oregon and at GAC, Claudia has a special place in her heart for the unique opportunities GAC presents.

“There’s just such a wide variety of opportunities at Guilford Art Center,” says

LEGAL NOTICE

Claudia. “They bring in special artists for weekend workshops; we have the great blacksmithing program, which is a tremendous opportunity; there’s weekly jewelry making, and then there’s special workshops on the weekend in jewelry making, and really in all the arts. There’s a large variety to choose from. I think that’s something we have that’s really special.”

GAC summer sessions feature hands-on art classes and workshops for all levels, taught by professional instructors. Classes (daytime and evening) begin the first week of July; applications are due June 10. Options range across a variety of mediums, including ceramics, painting, blacksmithing, drawing, fiber arts, leatherworking, metalsmithing, glass, collage, weaving, and more. Visit guilfordart center.org to view the full summer catalog, register, or for information about financial aid that may be available; or call 203-4535947.

The 104th Annual Meeting of the Civic Association of Short Beach will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 7:00 P.M. at Orchard House, 421 Shore Drive, Branford, CT.

Agenda: (1) presentation by ESHD on the data from the Microbial Source testing, (2) election of Executive and Zoning Board of Appeals members,

(3) presentation of income and expenditures, (4) budget, (5) report on issues of current interest and (6) consideration of issues raised by members of the Association.

By: The Executive Board Civic Association

of Short Beach

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, June 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM by remote technology to consider the applications listed below. Information regarding how to participate in the Public Hearings will be provided on the Commission’s meeting Agenda that will be posted on the Town’s website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

1. Application #25-5.4 Special Exception for Automotive Tinting/Vinyl Wrap located at 4 Sycamore Way (Unit 4 & 5).Zach Woxland-Applicant. RCR Enterprises LLC c/o Chris Russo- Owner.

2. Application #25-5.6 Special Exception for an Interior Lot (Lot 1) located at 72 Hilltop Drive & 43 Totoket Road. M & V LLC c/o Mark Andreucci-Applicant. Mary Keegan (Trustee)-Owner.

3. Application #25-5.7 Special Exception for an Interior Lot (Lot 2) located at 72 Hilltop Drive & 43 Totoket Road. M & V LLC c/o Mark Andreucci-Applicant. Mary Keegan (Trustee)- Owner.

4. Application #25-5.8 Special Exception for an Interior Lot (Lot 3) located at 72 Hilltop Drive & 43 Hilltop Road. M & V LLC c/o Mark Andreucci-Applicant. Mary Keegan (Trustee)-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

Inland Wetlands Commission TOWN HALL BRANFORD CONNECTICUT 06405

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 22, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.

The following application was approved with conditions:

1. IW#25.01.01- 19-37 Gould Lane-Proposed Subdivision for 3 Residential Lots

Peter Bassermann, Chairman

BRANFORD REPRESENTATIVE TOWN MEETING LEGAL NOTICE AND CALL

The RTM will be convened on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. at Joe Trapasso Community House, 46 Church St, Branford, CT to consider and act upon the following matters.

1. Call to Order, and Pledge of Allegiance

2. Roll Call

3. Approval of the minutes of the annual budget meeting, held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

4. Reception of communications, reports of committees, and citizen petitions.

5. To consider, and if appropriate, approve a transfer request from the Inland Wetlands Director to approve a transfer request for FY25 for the following:

From: 10141160-518000 Overtime $250 To: 10141160-519020 Longevity $250

6. To consider, and if appropriate, approve a transfer request from Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library for following FY25:

From: 10149040-588802 Contingency $14,000 To: 101446020-517660 Library Staff $13,000 & 10146020-555300 Communications $1,000 Total=$14,000

7. To consider and, if appropriate, establish a harbor management commission pursuant to CGS 22a-113k.

8. To consider, and if appropriate, create an ordinance which will encode reasonable restrictions on short-term rentals in Branford.

9. To consider, and if appropriate, recommend amending the Town Blight Ordinance, Chapter 124 Blight Prevention, based on recommendations from the Town of Branford’s Blight Enforcement Officer.

10. Any other business to come before the RTM.

11. Adjournment.

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF BRANFORD BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT 06405 Legal Notice

The Branford Zoning Board of Appeals will meet Tuesday June 17, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom technology to conduct Public Hearings on the following applications. Information regarding how to participate in the Public Hearings will be provided on the meeting Agenda that will be posted on the Town’s website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

New Business:

25/6-1 John Wolfenden (Applicant & Owner)

(E11-000-004-00010 R3) 6 Montgomery Parkway

(E11-000-004-00009 R30 10 Montgomery Parkway

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.1 To reduce the lot area of #10 Montgomery Parkway to 12,039 sq feet where 15,000 sq feet is required for the reconfiguration of the shared property line between #6 & #10 Montgomery Parkway to eliminate the side setback nonconformities.

25/6-2 Kevin Odell (Applicant & Owner)

(D09-000-005-00008 R3) 264 Harbor Street

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.5 Requesting a 3-foot front setback where 30 feet is required and 25 feet is already existing for the replacement and expansion of the existing front porch.

25/6-3 Wendy Duby (Applicant & Owner)

(C10-000-006-00013 R3) 11 Howard Avenue

Var Sec. 3.4.A.6 – 11 feet for a side setback where 15 feet is required and 14.6 feet is existing for the construction of a deck.

25/6-4 Mark Shifman & Melinda Sanders (Applicants & Owners) (F10-000-005-00008 R3) 45 Seaview Avenue

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6- From 10 feet to 6 feet West side, 8 feet East side (where 0.8 ft exists) to make the house FEMA compliant. Var. Sec. 3.4.A.10 Coverage from 0.25 to 0.32 to allow new stairs & elevator (0.28 existing).

James Sette (Chairman)

Over $90K Awarded in Branford Community Foundation 2025 Annual Grants

The Branford Community Foundation (BCF) is pleased to announce the recipients of their 2025 annual grants.

In total, $90,550 will be awarded to 29 recipients, including American Legion Corcoran Sundquist Post 83, Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance, Branford Compassion Club, Branford Early Learning Center, Branford Microfund, Camp Hazen YMCA, Camp Totokett, Carrie P. Chandler Housing Development Corporation, Children In Placement (CIP), Clifford W. Beers Guidance Clinic, Inc., Columbus House, Inc., Community Dining Room, Fair Haven Community Health Care, Feed Branford Kids, Friends of Outer Island, James Blackstone Memorial Library, New Haven Ballet, Orchard House Medical Adult Day Center, Pine Orchard Nursery School, Read to Grow, Inc., Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Heritage Foundation, Shoreline Village CT, Soundview Family YMCA (twp grants), Special Olympics Connecticut, Take a Vet Fishing, The Connecticut Hospice, Inc., The Cove Center for Grieving Children, and Women & Family Life Center.

In this 2025 grant process, BCF saw another significant increase in applications compared to years prior. The Foundation received 51 applications from 48 applicants requesting a total of $296,806, with requested amounts ranging from $1,500 to $20,000. In 2024, the 45 applications totaled $245,338, with amounts ranging from $793 to $12,000.

BCF’s Community Investment Committee (CIC) met five times to review applications and prepare recommendations, and according to BCF Executive

Director Liza Janssen Petra, this year’s decision-making process was particularly tough.

“We’ve been receiving greater numbers of applications year after year, with the size of requests increasing as well. With recent funding cuts at the state and federal levels, we are seeing many of our local nonprofits facing serious funding shortfalls, many of which were not budgeted for, and so they are reaching out to the Foundation for more support,” said Petra. “As a result, the committee felt the need to focus more on basic needs than our usual wider range of funding areas. We wanted to make sure that we were supporting the organizations providing essentials to those who needed it most, first, and so that focus played a much larger role in this year’s grant recommendations than in the past.”

Grants are awarded to 501(c)3 not-forprofit organizations and 170(c)(1) governmental agencies serving the Branford community and creating a positive impact, enhancing the quality of life in Branford.

The Board of Directors considers applications from one or more areas of focus: Animal Welfare; Arts, Culture, and Heritage; Basic Needs; Community Improvement and Vitality; Education; Environment and Sustainability; Human Services; Children and Youth; Seniors; Wellness and Mental health. Grant applications should address a need within the focus area and demonstrate impact on the organization, project, and community, and impact to Branford residents.

For more information on upcoming grants, sponsorships, and community events, or to make a contribution to the Branford Community Foundation, please email Marketing@BranfordCommunity Foundation.org.

LEGAL NOTICE

NORTH BRANFORD CONSERVATION AND INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES AGENCY

The North Branford Conservation & Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency at its 5-28-25 Regular Meeting took the following action:

1. Set SITE WALK for JUNE 14, 2025 at 9:00 a.m; IWWA Appl. #2025-2, West Pond Road/Glenwood Road – Subdivision application for six (6) lots. Meet at cul-de-sac on Glenwood Road.

2. Set PUBLIC HEARING for JUNE 18, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.; IWWA Appl. #2025-2, West Pond Road/Glenwood Road – Subdivision application for six (6) lots. Owner/Applicant: BC Investment Properties LLC, Bruce Ciccone Stephen Scavo, Chairman

Press Release, Branford Community Foundation

Maryann Amore, RTM Moderator, 4th District

Close Council Vote Sets $64.69M North Branford Budget with 4.62% Increase

By Pam Johnson

Senior Staff Writer

On May 27, by a close, bipartisan vote of 5 to 4, the North Branford Town Council approved $446,499 in further 2025-’26 budget reductions in response to a townwide budget referendum rejecting the council’s original $65 million budget recommendation as too high. As a result, North Branford will begin the 2025-2026 fiscal year on July 1 with a $64,693,639 budget, representing a 4.62% annual increase and a new mill rate of 27.61.

All cuts impact Town government. No further cuts were proposed nor made to the Board of Education (BOE) budget.

The adjustment reduces the council’s original budget of $65,044,838, equating to an annual increase of 5.1% and proposing a 27.84 mill rate. Due to the October 2024 state-mandated property revaluations, North Branford property values have increased substantially. With the impact the reval creates on property taxes in

mind, the council’s proposed 27.84 mill rate reflected a reduction of 8.9 mills from North Branford’s current 35.93 mill rate to help mitigate the burden on taxpayers.

However, on May 13, with a voter turnout of 20.1%, a majority of North Branford voters rejected the council’s recommended budget.

Following the referendum, the council met on May 20 to discuss adjustment suggestions from departments, discuss council members’ ideas for further cuts, and task the Town Manager with presenting staff reductions or hourly reductions. Numbers were then applied to be reviewed on May 27. In addition, the council welcomed budget input from residents via email by noon of May 27 or in person at the council’s special meeting on May 27 at North Branford High School.

At the May 27 meeting, Town Manager Michael Downes read eight budget-based emails received from residents, and the council heard from four residents in atten-

Presented by:

dance. The impacts of the additional tax burden on the town’s seniors and young families were emphasized. Three residents among the 12 commentors reported they would be impacted by a property tax increase ranging from $900 to $1200 based on a 27.84 mill rate.

Among the email comments, seven residents raised concerns about property taxes increasing even with the reduced mill rate and asked for further cuts to the budget, including five seeking a 0% tax increase. One resident requested the council make no further cuts to the BOE budget.

Among the four citizen speakers, three residents sought cuts to the mill rate, and one asked for no further cuts to the BOE budget.

Following citizen comments, the council discussed proposed further cuts to the budget. Mayor Rose Angeloni noted the council had already made substantial cuts during the earlier budget review process.

“Like we’ve said in previous meetings, people are looking for substantial cuts, but unfortunately, substantial has a lot of different meanings to a lot of different people. When you look at the budget and what came in and what was proposed, what we already cut from the budget on April 22, and also the proposed cuts from tonight, on the Town side, we’re cutting approximately 50% of the increase that was requested between Town departments and capital,” said Angeloni.

The mayor also noted that BOE budgets are required by state mandate to meet the previous year’s bottom line and that the council’s 2025-’26 recommended budget provisioned a $200,000 annual increase to North Branford’s education budget.

“If there were any further cuts to the Board of Education, all we can cut is $200,000, which is what they got. We can’t go into their existing budget, and that is by state statute,” said Angeloni.

As previously reported, the BOE recommended a 2025-’26 “status quo” budget request of $35.98 million and sought an annual increase of 6.16% or $2.088 million.

On April 22, by a party-line vote of 6-3, the Republican-led Town Council approved a BOE annual increase of $200,000, allocating a budget of $34,101,724 to the BOE.

Angeloni also noted that, on April 1, the council went through the budget and what the budget would look like based on cuts of 2 mills, 3 mills, or 3.5 mills.

“All of that would come out on the Town side of the budget, and you’re talking millions and millions of dollars. We would decimate departments, our services in town would greatly be reduced, and I don’t think that is what the majority of people are looking for,” said Angeloni.

Following discussion of the council, the vote to adopt the revised 2025-’26 budget was passed by a 5-4 roll call vote. Voting in favor were Mayor Angeloni (R), Deputy Mayor Jeffrey Macmillen (R), and council members Marie Diamond (D), Nick Palladino (R), and Ronald Pelliccia (R). Voting against were council members Bruce Abelson (D), Walter Goad (R), Craig Miller (D), and Thomas Zampano (R).

North Branford’s adopted $64.69 million budget provides $22,462,304 for Town governance. In a press release, Town Manager Michael Downes reported cuts made by the council on May 27 eliminated a part-time library position and made “significant reductions” in hours in the Town’s two libraries, Town Clerk’s Office, Parks & Recreation Department, and Public Works Department.

Downes noted that on May 27, the council also “...acted on over $16,000 of savings from the renegotiation of the Animal Control agreement with the Town of East Haven, and $15,000 of good faith concessions from the town’s trash hauling company, John’s Refuse, with no impact on service.”

Additionally, over $30,000 of the budget adjustment was achieved by reducing brush cutting, guardrail repair, and outside plowing in the Public Works budget, Downes noted.

“Increases in the budget are driven largely by inflation, increased costs in materials and supplies, contracts, insurance, and personnel, as well as increasing debt service mostly associated with the new high school and police department projects. This is coupled with a significant decrease in state aid in the Governor’s proposed budget,” Downes stated.

The council is required by Town Charter to set the new budget by June 1. The new 2025-2026 fiscal year begins on July 1.

The May 27 Special Meeting of the North Branford Town Council was livestreamed by Totoket TV and can be viewed at Totoket TV on YouTube. The full press release issued by Town Manager Michael Downes can be viewed at Zip06.com.

‘What Memorial Day Means to Me’ Student Essay Winners

cated to their remembrance. That is what Memorial Day means to me.”

Obituaries Continued from page 5

Obituary John O’Connor Branford

The Branford Veterans Parade Committee recently recognized Walsh Intermediate School’s (WIS) top 10 winners of the committee’s 2025 “What Memorial Day Means to Me” essay contest. Grade five student Muhammad Sarwarzai wrote the winning essay, and fifth-grade student Aaron Herrmann was selected as runnerup for his essay.

The Branford Community Foundation provides cash prizes for student writers of the top 10 essays. BCF awarded $150 to the winning essayist and $100 to the runner-up and presented cash prizes of $35 to each of the eight finalists.

Parade officials, BCF, the WIS administration, and teachers of the students joined in recognizing the top ten essayists during prize and certificate presentations at WIS. Sarwarzai wrote, “To me, Memorial Day means a day when we remember the people who died while fighting for America. It is a day when we honor them. We place flowers at their graves as a sign of remembrance and respect. It is definitely a special day when we remember the ones who have fallen during battle. And when we remember them, we remember the people who have shaped our country to make it what it is today. It is a day, one day, dedi-

Herrmann’s essay stated, “Memorial Day is a day where we remember the men and women who fought in the wars across the globe and within our borders and died. They fought for our freedom, for democracy, equality, against slavery, and terrorism. In my extended family, there have been several brave soldiers in the service from World War II to recent deployments. While I’m glad that they all returned safely to us, my thoughts are with all the young men and women that left behind their families and loved ones and gave the ultimate sacrifice. We need to preserve their memory and valor for future generations.”

The eight student finalists are essayists Neve Brogan, Matthew Edgar, Sophia Ehrlich, Guillermo Gonzalez, Alexa Lage, Layla Nixon, Cara Parente, and Leah Amor Trimble.

All of the student essayists were congratulated and thanked by Parade Chief of Staff Alex Palluzzi Jr., parade committee members Donald Langlois and Harvey Goldstein, Branford Community Foundation Executive Director Liza Petra, WIS Assistant Principal Peter Anaclerio and WIS grade five teachers Gail Mattie-Boyle and Robin Axtell.

CT Trails Day Hike with NBLCT

Join the North Branford Land Conservation Trust (NBLCT) on Connecticut Trails Day 2025, Saturday, June 7, for a two-walk to experience the newly established Angeloni Woodland Preserve•in North Branford. You will also hike part of the Kampmeyer Preserve in Guilford. This an educational, family-friendly nature walk. The forested land has some inclines, streams, glacial deposits, and

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rocky cliffs.•The initial part of the hike will take you by NBLCT’s Notch Hill Brook Trails, so keep that in mind for a later date. From there, you will continue along an old trolley line.

Meet by 9:15 a.m. at 60 Ciro Road, North Branford. There is sufficient parking around the cul-de-sac on Ciro Rd. Learn more about CT Trails Day and preregister at trailsday.org/events (search North Branford Angeloni Woodland Preserve).

Shoreline Arts Alliance’s IMAGES is accepting digital submissions for its annual exhibition. IMAGES 2025 is a jury-curated photography exhibition to be held from Saturday, Aug. 2, through Sunday, Aug. 24, at Kehler Liddell Gallery, 873 Whalley Avenue, New Haven. Shoreline Arts Alliance encourages Connecticut photographers of all skill levels to submit their work to IMAGES via the Shoreline Arts Alliance website at shorelinearts.org through Thursday, June 12. For more information on submission rules and cost, email office@shorelinearts.org or visit shorelinearts.org.

John Robert O'Connor passed peacefully at home on May 23, 2025, surrounded by family and in view of Long Island Sound, which gave him so much joy for so many years. He was born in New Haven on Sept. 16, 1944, to Doris and Robert “Okie” O’Connor, growing up on Lombard Street in Fair Haven and spending summers at the family cottage in Branford. He met Jean Charlotte, the love of his life, in Short Beach at age 18. They married in 1966 and resided in Branford for their entire 58 years of marriage, the last 25 years at their home in Sunrise Cove. To his sorrow, his beloved Jean predeceased him in December 2024.

served on the board of the Branford Counseling Center. In his retirement, he completed his 50-year dedication to the Branford School System as vice chairman of the Board of Education and a member of the Walsh Intermediate School Building Committee. He was inducted in 2002 into the Branford Education Hall of Fame.

Together, they lovingly raised sons Jeff and Sean and welcomed daughtersin-law Kristin Wildermann and Lisa Friedlander to the family. His greatest pride was his beloved grandchildren: Paul, Daniel, Rowan, and Meaghan, who each brought joy to his life. He shared his love with his extended family, including his sisters-in-law Virgina Charlotte and Patricia Dickinson (Ken); nieces Krista Depukat (David) and Kelly Dickinson; and nephews, Kyle Dickinson (Alicia Michaud) and Erik Kousen (Kayla).

John graduated from St. Francis Grammar School and Wilbur Cross High School and received his B.A., M.S, and Sixth-Year Certification from Southern Connecticut State University. At SCSU, John was a four-year member of the swim team under legendary coach Bruce Hutchinson. He achieved NCAA college all-American honors and was a school record holder.

John’s career began as an elementary and special education teacher in West Haven and Branford, and he was a school psychologist in Branford for almost three decades. In the 1970s, he served as president and chief negotiator of the Branford Education Association during tense negotiations to improve teacher pay and benefits. John also

His real passion, after his family, was swimming. Coach O’C shared his love of swimming with the community as a founding coach of the Branford Stingrays and as Pool Director for many summers at the Pine Orchard Club. In 1975, he became coach of the Branford High boys' swim team, which he led for 18 years, and in 1980, he coached the first of 27 seasons for the girls' swim team. His teams won a total of 15 state championships and included over 200 swimmers who achieved All-State recognition and 12 All-Americans. Due to the success of his swimmers, he received awards as CT and Northeast Coach of the Year, and in 2007, he was named the National Swim Coach of the Year by the National High School Coaches Association. He served as president of the CT High School Coaches Association and the CT Swim Coaches Association and was inducted into the CT Coaches Hall of Fame and the Branford Sports Hall of Fame. In 2006, the Walsh Intermediate School pool was named the “John R. O’Connor Pool” in his honor.

John thanks his family and friends who did so much to support him and Jean these past two years, especially caregivers Nicole and Shauna from Family Matters LLC and his Hospice Nurse Carrie. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the John and Jean O’Connor Scholarship Fund with the Branford Community Foundation, PO Box 462, Branford, CT 06405, or at www.branfordcommunityfoundation.org.

Visiting hours were on May 3 at W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on May 31 at St. John Bosco Parish in St. Therese Church, 105 Leetes Island Road, Branford.

Press Release from the North Branford Land Conservation Trust

Press Release, Branford Veterans Parade Committee

Obituaries Continued from page 12

Obituary

Elizabeth Barnes

Branford

Elizabeth Goodrich Barnes, age 103, died on May 9, 2025. Not long before her death, she was quoting lines from Shakespeare, reviewing her daily paper, and watching for ospreys. Elizabeth was born March 25, 1922, in Columbus, Ohio, to Marion Hanson Goodrich and John Butler Goodrich. She was predeceased by her husband, Amos F. Barnes III, and her sister, Marion Sanford.

She moved to New Haven when she was 10, graduated from Hill House High School, and then attended Connecticut College (at that time, CT College for Women). In 1942, she married Amos Foote Barnes III at Dwight Chapel at Yale. They moved to Branford, Pine Orchard, where only 17 families lived year-round, prior to her husband entering the service for World War II.

She leaves her children: Betsy Anderson of Brookline, Massachusetts; Jonathan Barnes (Patricia Sullivan) of Barrington, Rhode Island; Anne Golden

(Michael) of Chatham, New York; Sally Barnes of Bristol, England; Amos Barnes of Gorham, New Hampshire; and Tucker Barnes of Sebring, Florida; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

She was involved with many volunteer efforts over the years: Pine Orchard Nursery School treasurer, March of Dimes Polio Drives, Branford Blood Mobile, PTA work, Branford Land Trust treasurer, Yale New Haven Hospital (gift shop and infusion clinic), and Nursing Home Review Committee (Connecticut Department of Health). Her great loves were her children! And grandchildren! And dogs! She read the every day and did the crossword puzzles - in ink! She was an avid reader, belonging to two book groups and making weekly trips to the Willoughby Wallace Library in Stony Creek. She also enjoyed traveling. She moved to Harbor Chase of Branford in 2022 after living for several decades at Turtle Bay in Short Beach. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Branford Land Trust, the Willoughby Wallace Library, or others of your choice.

New York Times NYT

Josh Brooks Announces Candidacy for Branford First Selectman

Longtime Branford resident, business owner, and Democratic Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member Josh Brooks has officially announced his candidacy for First Selectman of Branford in the upcoming November 2025 municipal election.

“Branford is in my blood,” said Brooks. “This town has given so much to me and my family, and I’m running for First Selectman to give back in a deeper and more lasting way.”

Brooks is a small business owner, operating a Branford stone masonry company since 2005, which employs six people in Connecticut.

“Running a small business, I see every day the impact I can have through hard work. Whether it’s building something lasting for a neighbor or helping guide policy decisions that shape our town’s future, I know you get out of this world what you put into it,” Brooks said.

In addition to his business, Brooks brings

Obituary Daniel Lawler Sr. Branford

Daniel "Dan" Francis Lawler Sr., 82, of Branford, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, at the Connecticut Hospice, Branford, with his family by his side. He was the beloved husband of 62 years to his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth “Betty” Cappello Lawler. Daniel was born in New Haven on Aug. 14, 1942, and was the son of the late Edward M. and Catherine M. Schultz Lawler. He was father of Daniel Lawler Jr. (Mary) and Darren Lawler (Amy Wise); uncle and godfather of Catherine “Cathy” Webster Stevens (Arthur); and grandfather of Daniel L. Lawler and Madigan K. Lawler. Dan had many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whom he adored.

the majority of his career as an indoor fabricator with a specialty in wrought iron. He took great pride in having worked on the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council, New Haven, and Foxwoods Casino, Ledyard.

Dan loved watching his grandchildren play sports in high school and could always be found sitting in the stands and bleachers at every game. An avid golfer, Dan looked forward to spending winters in Jupiter, Florida, every year to work on his golf game. Besides his love of golf, Dan was a swimmer and a history buff. He was a member of the Branford Elks #1939, an avid fan of the New York Yankees, New York Giants, and UConn men’s and women’s basketball. Most of all, Dan enjoyed being with his family (especially his grandchildren) and loved them all unconditionally.

Dan grew up in the Momauguin Section of East Haven and attended East Haven High School, where he played basketball. He worked as a mechanic for the former New Haven Bus Company, where he learned how to weld, which led to a career as an iron worker for over 40 years. Dan was a member of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers, Local #832. He spent

decades of personal, professional, and public service experience to the race. A Branford resident for his entire adult life, Brooks has raised two children in town, volunteered extensively in local schools and youth sports, and served the community in multiple capacities. For seven years, he worked as Branford’s Youth Outreach Worker, helping young people navigate challenges and find success. He has served for 14 years on the RTM, where he’s been a consistent voice for responsive, communitycentered government. He is also a board member of the Stony Creek Association and has been an active volunteer with Branford’s Parent-Teacher Associations and local nonprofits.

Brooks emphasized his campaign will be rooted in community connection, listening, and action.

“Branford deserves leadership that is visible, accessible, and committed to making sure all voices are heard. I’m excited to hit the campaign trail, meet more of my neighbors, and talk about how we can keep Branford moving forward together.”

The visiting hours were on May 24 at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, North Haven. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated in St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish at St. Therese Church, 555 Middletown Avenue, North Haven. Interment followed in All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the CT Hospice, Inc., 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405. www.northhavenfuneral.com.

Art from the Heart Gala Returns June 6

Press Release, Community Dining Room

The Community Dining Room invites the public to its rescheduled third annual Art from the Heart Gala, an evening celebrating art, community, and compassion, on Friday, June 6, from 6 to 10 pm at Nuzzo’s Farm, 736 East Main Street, Branford.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, the Community Dining Room continues to honor its mission of “more than just a meal” by uniting the community for an unforgettable night. This year’s gala will be hosted by Kerry Collins, with a full program including art from local artists; live and silent auctions; Family Fun Raffles featuring prizes from Hartford Athletic and the Hart-

ford Yard Goats; grazing tables by Perfectly Planned Parties by Andrea; The Greenery Truck onsite for additional food and beverage purchases (cash only).

Tickets are $40 and support the Community Dining Room’s mission to feed and support individuals and families across Branford, East Haven, Guilford, and North Branford.

“This event is about more than art,” said Patrick Hackett, Fundraising Coordinator for the Community Dining Room. “It’s about community coming together to uplift . “It’s about community coming together to uplift and sustain the heart of the shoreline.”

To purchase tickets or learn more, visit communitydining room.org

Press Release from Josh Brooks

North Branford Outdoor Track Makes Noise in Conference Championship Meet

By Maria Cipriano

Sports Reporter

With a lot of representation from a variety of athletes across several different events, the North Branford boys’ and girls’ outdoor track teams saw a lot of success at the Shoreline Conference Championship meet. With many personal records (PRs) being set over the course of the campaign, the Thunderbirds entered the postseason well on their way to see even more success.

At the Shoreline Conference Championship on May 22, the North Branford girls’ team placed 10th out of 12 teams, and the boys placed eighth out of 12. First-year Head Coach Kathleen Griffin-Daley was proud of the competitiveness her athletes showed on the big stage.

“75% of our athletes made it to the Shoreline Championship this season, competing in the 100, 200, 400, 800, discus, shot put, javelin, high jump, long jump, triple jump, and 4x100 and 4x400 relays,” said Griffin-Daley. “We collectively earned 12 medals, broke two school records, and achieved several person records (PRs) at this meet.”

As the team progressed through its schedule, Sophia Sorrell (junior, sprints, hurdles, 4x100, and 4x400 relay) and Raul Cepeda (senior, sprints, 4x100 and 400 relay, and high jump) led the way as captains. They both displayed traits of hard work and dedication day in and day out, and it rubbed off on all of their teammates.

“Sophia is part of the 4x100 team that just broke the school record. She also broke the school record in the 200-meter dash. Her natural leadership abilities coupled with her friendly personality, positive attitude, and natural athleticism make her a tremen-

dous asset to the team,” said Griffin-Daley. “Raul is a very respectful, mature, and focused young man. His level of motivation, selfdiscipline, and commitment make him someone his teammates look up to. He has been very successful in his events this year, qualifying for states in both the 4x100 relay and 4x400 relay.”

The Thunderbirds began their season with a three-day pentathlon. This allowed the team to create a strong culture, and it helped each athlete to identify what events they wanted to focus on during the spring.

“The entire team was divided into two teams for friendly competition in a variety of events. This not only began the development of our spirited culture but helped athletes discover events they excelled at,” said GriffinDaley. “Donning wristbands of team colors, athletes cheered on their teammates and discovered more about themselves and one another. In the week that followed, student-athletes set goals for themselves with strategies to help reach their goals.”

The first official meet of the season was on April 14 against Westbrook and Coginchaug. The boys’ and girls’ teams both finished second overall to begin the strong campaign.

“When the competitive season began, we could feel the energy continue to grow. It was evident something special was going oninclusivity, positivity, and hard work. From the invitationals to the regular conference meets, every athlete achieved at least one personal record, if not many,” said Griffin-Daley. “PR Bars were awarded to these athletes after each meet, increasing their motivation and drive to do well. Among goals being achieved, PRs being met, qualifying times/distances being achieved,

school records being broken, something more important was taking place.”

Several athletes stepped up on a consistent basis for the Thunderbirds, including Destiny Christie (senior, sprints), Emma Preiss (junior, sprints and middistance), Brandon Longo (junior, sprints), and Nicolas Salvati (sophomore, sprints and throws).

“Destiny has undeniable speed and talent as evident in her position on the highly ranked 4x100 relay team and 4x400 relay team. She is also ranked in the top 10 in the Class S state for the 100 meter dash as well as being a record holder in the 4x100m relay,” said Griffin-Daley. “Emma is also a member of the highly ranked 4x100 relay and 4x400 relay teams. She is fiercely competitive and has great grit and determination and contributes to the team greatly. Brandon has set aspirational goals for himself and met them with flying colors as the season has unfolded. He eagerly accepts all the workouts thrown his way and has accomplished personal records in all his events, including state qualifications in the 200m, 400m, 4x100m relay, and 4x400m relay. Nicolas’s desire and dedication stand out every day at practice and extend beyond the track, as he is always looking for ways to improve and prepare himself for competition. He is also a member of the 4x100 relay team that qualified for states.”

Griffin-Daley also added that Preiss broke the school record in both the 400 and 800, as well as being part of the school recordholding 4x100 relay.

The experienced athletes on the team did their part to record good team scores every meet for North Branford, but several novice competitors also earned their spots on the varsity roster.

Gabbi McDermott (freshman, long jump, triple jump, sprints), Craig Miller (sophomore, sprints, mid-distance, throws), and Santino Carbone (junior, throws) all paved their way in competition.

“As a rookie, Gabbi has been a standout athlete, not only in her

performances, but in her willingness to try new things, such as the triple jump in which she qualified for states quickly. She has wonderful courage, resilience, and focus,” Griffin-Daley said. “Craig has made his mark in

See North page 17

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound

Sophia Sorrell is an integral member of the North Branford indoor and outdoor track teams, serving as a captain this spring and competing in a variety of different events.

Several Athletes Named All-Conference, Boys’ Tennis Wins in States

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

On May 19, the Branford girls’ outdoor track team competed in the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) West Sectional Championship and placed fourth with 79 points.

In the long jump, Ella Stone placed first (18’ .25”), and ZuZu Pont Strong placed 13th (14’ 10”). Stone also won the high jump (4’ 10”). In the triple jump, Stone placed first (36’ 5”), and Pont Strong took ninth (31’ 4.25”). Djamilla Toukour won the 400 meters in a time of 58.08, and she placed second in the 200 (25.52). Cheyenne Wilson took ninth in the 200 (28.07). Jessica Radziunas placed first in the javelin (93’ 9”), and Zayna Cella placed fifth (81’ 4”). The 4x100 team of Pont Strong, Toukour, Wilson, and Glorianna Buckley placed third (51.61). In the discus, Cella placed fifth (92’ 10”), and Wilson took 12th (70’ 1”). Stella Elston placed seventh in the 300 hurdles (53.00), and eighth in the 100 hurdles (17.67). In the 4x400, Stella Andresen, Kendall Fagan, Favour Nwagboli, and Beulah Anigekwu placed seventh with a time of 4:48. Cella placed ninth in the shot put (28’ 7.25”).

“Ella and Djamilla had one of the greatest meets by Branford athletes ever. Ella won all three jumping events, which is unheard of, and Djamilla set two school records in the 400 and 200. They have been motivated to perform at a high level since the winter season,” said Head Coach Kevin Connell. “Zayna Cella has quietly become one of our best all-around throwers. She has qualified in all three events for the SCC Championships. It was a very

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good team effort today. We missed out on a few things due to injury but overall very pleased and looking forward to the championship season. This is a great group to work with, and they don’t disappoint.”

Stone earned a spot on the All-SCC First Team for both the high jump (5-00) and the long jump (17-06). Toukour was named to the Second Team for the 400 (58.23) and for the 200 (25.74). Radziunas was named to the Second Team for the javelin (115-08).

At the SCC Championship on May 27, Branford finished seventh with 50 points. Stone placed first in the long jump (17-6) and first in the high jump (5-0). Toukour placed second in the 200 (25.74) and second in the 400 (58.23). In the javelin, Radziunas placed second (115-8), while Zayna Cella placed 10th in that event (843). The 4x100 relay team of Pont Strong, Toukour, Wilson, and Buckley placed seventh in a time of 50.61. In the pole vault, Summer Sabatino placed 14th (7-6), and Cella placed seventh in the discus (91-11). Stone was seventh in the triple jump (34.5), and Elston (18.06) had a strong performance in the 100 hurdles and in the 300 hurdles (52.96).

“Once again, Ella and Djamilla were remarkable. Ella surprised us with a win in the high jump, and Djamilla battled to the finish in both races,” said Head Coach Kevin Connell. “Jessica Radziunas was

leading the javelin until the last throwshe had a great competition for a first time thrower. Lost in all the excitement, the 4x100 broke a school record going back to 1999. They have worked at this all season, and everything clicked in this meet. This was a good meet for our team. We didn’t bring many athletes, but they performed well. I look forward to next week’s Class MM - some of the girls have a solid chance to finish well.”

Scholar Athletes

Stone (girls’ outdoor track) and Michael Radziunas (boys’ tennis) were named Branford’s SCC Spring Scholar Athletes this year for their efforts both in the classroom and in their respective sports.

Luke Gagliardi and Nick Panuccio earned a spot on the All-SCC Team for Division II for Branford boys’ lacrosse.

For boys’ tennis, Mathias Schalper was named to the All-SCC Second Team for singles.

On May 30, the Hornets hosted Rocky Hill in the first round of the Class M State Tournament and won 6-1. Schalper won 60, 6-0 at No. 1 singles, and Saahil Bhawnani won 7-6, 7-5 at No. 2 singles. Sawyer Gaudreau earned a 6-2, 6-1 victory at No. 3 singles, and at No. 4 singles, Evren Akin won 6-0, 6-1. At No. 1 doubles, Michael Radziunas and Ishaan Bhawnani won 6-4, 6-1. Alexander Ferrara and Jacob Tran won 6-2, 6-1 at No. 2 doubles.

Shelby Burnham was named to the Second Team All-SCC for her efforts with Branford softball this spring.

Softball Baseball

Trevor Cser earned a spot on the AllSCC First Team for Branford baseball.

Girls’ Lacrosse

Aliza Giordano (attack) was named to the All-SCC First Team for Branford girls’ lacrosse. Ellie Meyran was named to the First Team as a midfielder. Several athletes were named to the Second Team, including Giuliana Barros (midfield), Charlie Kenney (defense), and Lilly Panuccio (goalie).

Peyton Gaudreau was named to the AllSCC First Team as a singles player for Branford girls’ tennis.

Branford closed out the regular season at home on May 23, hosting Stonington and falling 4-3.

On June 1, the team hosted Stonington in the first round of the Class M State Tournament and fell 6-1.

Peterson earned a spot on the AllSCC Second Team in the javelin throw (150-03) for Branford boys’ outdoor track.

Baseball, Softball, Girls’ Lacrosse All Win Conference Titles

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Softball

On May 24, North Branford softball hosted East Hampton in the quarterfinals of the Shoreline Conference Tournament and won 5-0. Lexi Falcioni drove in two runs, and Ava Ryszczyk and Lily Ardito each drove in one. Lauren Vitarisi pitched seven shutout innings, giving up just one hit and one walk while striking out 14 batters.

On May 27, the team hosted Coginchaug in the semifinals and won 2-0. Vitarisi and Alia Mar-

tone each hit a double in the contest, and Christina Aneiro drove in a run. Vitarisi pitched seven shutout innings, giving up two hits. She walked one batter and struck out 13.

In the championship game on May 30, the Thunderbirds faced Hale Ray and won 4-3. Vitarisi and Falcioni each drove in a run, and Vitarisi pitched eight inn-

ings, giving up nine hits and three earned runs. She walked three and struck out 12.

pionship game on May 31 and won 3-2.

Baseball

North Branford baseball hosted East Hampton in the Shoreline Conference Tournament quarterfinals on May 24 and won 8-5.

The team then hosted Haddam-Killingworth in the semifinals on May 27 and earned a 4-2 victory.

The Thunderbirds faced Valley Regional/Westbrook in the cham-

The North Branford girls’ lacrosse team hosted Old Saybrook in the Shoreline Conference Tournament semifinals on May 21 and won 10-8.

The team then faced Lyme-Old Lyme in the finals on May 23 and won 5-4.

Girls’ Outdoor Track

Tyler

Boys’ Lacrosse

Girls’ Lacrosse

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound Christina Aneiro drove in a run in North Branford softball's 2-0 win vs. Coginchaug in the semifinals of the Shoreline Conference Tournament.

Toukour Sprints Her Way to BHS Record Books

By Jennifer McCulloch

Special to the Sound

When Djamilla Toukour first stepped onto the track as a high school freshman, there were no grand expectations, no dreams of school records or state championships. She had just come out of a pandemic shutdown, feeling out of shape, and joined track mainly to get healthy again. But four years later, Djamilla has left her mark on the Branford High School girls’ track record books and found a passion for track she will continue next year at Southern Connecticut State University.

“Djamilla has been the model track athlete, as she has shown that dedication and focused work can lead to success in this sport,” says Branford girls’ track Head Coach Kevin Connell. “Every day at practice she brings her A game, and it inspires others. Her confidence has grown by leaps and bounds since freshman year. As a relay leg, she never disappoints and has been someone her teammates can rely on. Djamilla and her fellow seniors — Ella Stone, Cheyenne Wilson, Glorianna Buckley, and ZuZu Pont-Strong — are one of the best track classes we’ve ever had. They’ve been through the good times and bad times together. They have left big shoes to fill.”

Now a senior, Djamilla can hardly believe how far she’s come.

“It’s really emotional,” she says, smiling. “I can’t believe it went by so fast. It feels like I was just a freshman. I have three more races left. I feel happy, fulfilled. I don’t think I could’ve done more. I kept pushing, kept running, and stretched out my goals as best I could.”

Djamilla has every reason to feel fulfilled. This season alone, she has broken two individual school records — the 200 meters in 25.52 seconds and the 400 meters in 58.08 — both feats she hadn’t even dreamed of when she first took up sprinting. For the 200, her motivation was more focused. She had run a 27.71 during

Sports Person Week of the

the indoor track season at the New Balance meet, a personal best, but then set her sights on the school record. Breaking the school record in the 400 was a highlight of her track career.

“It was really nice to break it at the last home meet — it was something I really wanted to do, and knowing I could do it was just amazing. I don’t think I could have a moment like that again in my life — to know that I ran all four years, ran my race, and came out on top,” says Djamilla “[For the 200], when I saw 25.5 on the clock, I was literally jumping for joy. I was so proud of myself. It felt like everything I’d worked for had paid off.”

Another highlight came at the Marty Roberts Invitational, where Djamilla was named Sprinter of the Meet.

“I went into that meet just planning to have a relaxed Saturday,” she says. “I wasn’t expecting anything special, just running for fun — and it ended up being great.”

Djamilla’s success hasn’t been limited to solo events. She has been an anchor in several record-breaking relay teams: the 4x200 (1:50.05), the Sprint Medley Relay (4:09.19), and the 4x400 (4:07.13). Breaking the 4x200 record during this past indoor season with teammates Wilson, Buckley, and Stone was especially meaningful.

“We really wanted to break it,” she says. “It was our last indoor race together, and we just went for it. We set our goal and accomplished it. That was really special.”

Her performance is even more impres-

sive considering her past battles with injuries. As a junior, Djamilla battled issues with her shins, but she persevered. She attributes much of her success to one simple thing: showing up.

“I always showed up,” she says. “I didn’t want to miss the workout. I didn’t want to miss what could be.”

Djamilla’s progress is undeniable. As a freshman, she ran the 100 in 14.34 seconds and the 200 in 33.84. By junior year, her 100 time had dropped to 13.14 and the 200 to 27.9. Now, with school records in hand and a growing medal collection, her transformation is nothing short of remarkable.

“I’m shocked to see those times [from freshman year to senior year],” says Djamilla. “I didn’t know I’ve come that far. I just kept showing up. And I’m glad I did.”

Despite her success in the sprinting events, Djamilla began her track career focused on throwing events. In addition to indoor and outdoor track, Djamilla was a member of the cross country team her freshman, sophomore, and junior years.

“I didn’t love distance running, but I knew I’d always push myself hardest at the finish line,” says Djamilla, who ran cross country her first three years, not because she loved the mileage, but because of the bond she formed with her teammates. “I really enjoyed being around the upperclassmen. We had a good bond, and that’s mostly why I kept doing it. I didn’t necessarily enjoy running far, but the team bonding — team dinners, stopping for water breaks, going for ice cream — was what I really enjoyed.”

Even if the sport wasn’t her passion, Djamilla says cross country helped shape her into the sprinter she is today by building her endurance and eventually leading to her success in the 300 and 400. While she didn’t enjoy the 300 during indoor when she first started, as her endurance grew, she began to set new personal records (PRs) every week.

When Djamilla thinks about her athletic career in Branford, she has had a constant support in her coach. Connell coached her in every season, and she is grateful for his leadership and support.

“Kev has been the most supportive coach I could’ve ever had,” says Djamilla, who also founded the Black Student Union with her friend Nneoma Obi. “He always knows what to say and how to push his

See Toukour page 17

Photo courtesy of Djamilla Toukour Djamilla Toukour has made an impactful difference on the Branford girls' track program as a speedy school record holder.

Schedules

BRANFORD

Baseball

Saturday, June 7: Class L State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 10: Class L State Tournament Semifinals

Friday, June 13 or Saturday, June 14: Class L State Tournament Finals

Boys’ Lacrosse

Saturday, June 7: Class M State Tournament Quarterfinals

Wednesday, June 11: Class M State Tournament Semifinals

Saturday,June14:ClassMStateTournamentFinals

Outdoor Track

Saturday, June 7: State Open Championship at 11:30 a.m.

Golf

Monday, June 9: Division II State Tournament at 8 a.m.

NORTH

BRANFORD

Girls’ Lacrosse

Friday, June 6: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 10: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Sunday, June 15: Class S State Tournament Finals

Boys’ Lacrosse

Saturday, June 7: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Friday, June 6: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Monday, June 9 or Tuesday, June 10: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Saturday, June 14: Class S State Tournament Finals

Friday, June 6: Class M State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 10: Class M State Tournament Semifinals

Sunday, June 15: Class M State Tournament Finals

Girls’ Lacrosse Softball

Friday, June 6: Class L State Tournament Quarterfinals

Monday, June 9 or Tuesday, June 10: Class L State Tournament Semifinals

Saturday, June 14: Class L State Tournament Finals

Toukour Sprints Her Way to

BHS Record Books

Continued from page 16

athletes to be their best. He sees us as people, not just point-scorers. Even if you do badly in a meet, he shows he cares. I don’t think I would’ve stuck with sprinting without him — not in cross country, indoor, or outdoor. He believed in me.” That belief helped Djamilla make her next big decision: to continue running track at Southern Connecticut State Uni-

versity, where she’ll also study nursing. As she looks at how far she’s come since her freshman year, she knew she had more to accomplish.

“For the longest time, I thought when high school ends, that would be it, but with the improvement I’ve shown, I feel like I shouldn’t let it go to waste,” says Djamilla.

“I want to keep growing as an athlete. I don’t want to miss out on what I could accomplish.”

PublicStargazingatYoung’sPondPark

The Astronomical Society of New Haven is hosting an open stargazing event on Saturday, June 7 after 8 p.m. at Young’s Pond Park, 60 Blackstone Avenue, Branford. The telescopes will be pointed at an almost full moon, Mars, the Hercules star cluster and some double stars. Admission and parking are free. Bring mosquito repellent. For more information or updates in case of cancellation due to weather (including clouds) call 866-808-ASNH or visit www.asnh.org.

Wednesday, June 11: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Saturday, June 14: Class S State Tournament Finals

Outdoor Track

Saturday, June 7: State Open Championship at 11:30 a.m.

June 5 to June 11

Saturday, June 7: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 10: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Friday, June 13 or Saturday, June 14: Class S State Tournament Finals

Golf

Tuesday, June 10: Division III State Tournament at 8 a.m. Softball Baseball

North Branford Outdoor Track Makes Noise in Conference Championship Meet

Continued from page 14

several events. He is a natural athlete with unyielding determination and adaptability. He competes in the sprints, mid-distance, and throws. He is also a member of the 4x100 relay team that qualified for states. Santino has proven his abilities in the throws, especially the javelin where he has qualified for states. He has also been a great contributor in the mid-distance and distance events, continually improving his mile time.”

Other notable athletes from the Thunderbirds this season include Juliana Porcu (sophomore, 100m hurdles, sprints, 4x100m relay, javelin), Brianna Kundrath (sophomore, throws, 4x800m relay), and Ethan Heff (senior, sprints, and throws).

“Juliana is the type of athlete that will welcome a challenge with a positive attitude and always puts forth her best effort,” said Griffin-Daley. “Brianna specializes in the javelin in which she qualified for states. She shows great spirit and determination at every practice. Ethan excels in the javelin, and the 100m dash and 4x100m relay. His friendly, outgoing nature paired with his work ethic make him an invaluable member of the team.”

As the Thunderbirds turn their attention to the state championship portion of the schedule, Griffin-Daley is hoping the athletes keep a positive mindset and don’t take their feet off the gas.

“As we look toward states, we are maintaining our positive culture and vibes as we embrace all the moments as the season comes to a close,” Griffin-Daley said. “18 of our 36 athletes will be going to states this year. We have qualifiers in the 100, 200,

400, 800, 300 hurdles, 4x100, 4x400, long jump, triple jump, and javelin events. It is with great pride that we bring this wonderful group of talented and passionate student-athletes to represent North Branford and look forward to what they will do next.”

Griffin-Daley is assisted by Chelsea Dodds (throwing coach), Matthew Daley, and Aidan Maloney.

The Thunderbirds outdoor track team includes seniors Makaila Amen (200 and 400m), Cepeda, Christie, Heff, and Jordan Keil; juniors Taylor Bliven (mid-distance and 4x800m relay), Carbone, Star Colon (200 and 400m, javelin), Longo, Cassidy Navarrete (mid-distance, 4x800m relay, and discus), Preiss, and Sorrell; sophomores Talan Caffalette (mid-distance and hurdles), Dustin Gildersleeve (sprints and throws), Kayla Kleckner (sprints, 4x400 relay), Kundrath, Miller, Marcus Magazzi (mid-distance), Edmira Marashi (sprints and mid-distance), Skye Pancak (4x800 relay and discus), Luciano Pearson (middistance, hurdles, 4x800 relay), Salvati, Sorrell, Michael Sigal (200 and 400m, 4x400 relay), and Sasha Sigal (mid-distance and 400m); and freshmen Ellie Budd (sprinter and javelin), Shelby Chittenden (discus, shot put, javelin, 4x800 relay), Mariela Cereni (mid-distance and 4x800 relay), Logan Dahlheimer (discus, shot put, and javelin), Grace Fuina (manager), Clifford Hench (discus and javelin), McDermott, Gianna Stone (sprints), Monnique LaRock (sprints and hurdles), Isabella LeClaire (sprints, high jump, and throws), Josh Walston (shot put and discus), and Gavin Vrabel (distance and 4x800 relay).

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!

Last Week’s Answers

Here’s How It Works:

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

Bringing Bluebirds Home

How One Couple is Helping Bring Birds Back to Madison

By Michael Fitzsousa

When Susannah and Tom Graedel moved to Connecticut from New Jersey in 1997, they brought with them a love of bluebirds. As they had at their former home in the Garden State, they erected small wooden nest boxes to attract and harbor the brightly colored songbirds, which only a few decades before appeared to be in danger of disappearing.

The boxes were part of a national effort by the North American Bluebird Society, launched in the ‘70s, to save the Eastern bluebird species. These specially designed boxes protected bluebird nests and young from predators. For the Graedels, who live in North Branford, the boxes became the focal point of a weekly routine to monitor the progress of a now-expanding population. Coordinating with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Citizen Science Program, the Graedels would check the boxes at their former home on Legend Hill Road in Madison and repair any damage caused by rodents, snakes, or competing bird species such as wrens and sparrows. When the bluebird offspring arrived, they recorded the details and sent the data off to Cornell. That backyard operation expanded over time to other locations, including Bauer Park, the Madison town park where Susannah Graedel worked as an environmental educator for many years, and now Rettich Preserve on River Road, which is managed by the Madison Land Conservation Trust. The Graedels maintain 22 boxes at Bauer Park and seven boxes at Rettich Preserve. They even check the boxes at their former home.

“The idea is you inspect them regularly. Is there a nest there? Are there eggs in the nest? Are there baby birds?” said Tom Graedel. “If you do this every week, then if something’s wrong, you can clean them out and get things going again.” And much can go wrong. Marauding house wrens and starlings are prone to trashing the nests or moving in on top with their own nests. If bluebird eggs or hatchlings are present, the invaders destroy them.

Unlike many species of birds, Eastern

bluebirds are cavity nesters, typically making their homes in empty hollows of trees and old fence posts. As old-growth forests were cleared for farmland in the 1800s, their numbers declined dramatically—as much as 90% by the mid-20th century. The success of invasive species, notably house sparrows and European starlings, created competition for nesting spaces. But the bluebirds rebounded in large part thanks to the many thousands of nest boxes that became popular after efforts to publicize their plight. They now have a rating of “least concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The Christmas Bird Counts organized by the Audubon Society showed a three-fold increase in Eastern bluebirds from 1980 to 2004.

“They really are thriving,” said Susannah Graedel, who studied zoology at the University of Michigan and earned a master’s degree in ecology and evolutionary biology from Rutgers University. She will be leading a program titled “Get Ready for Bluebirds” on Saturday, June 21 at Bauer Park in Madison.

Tom Graedel, who was a researcher at Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey, before joining the faculty at Yale School of the Environment, has enjoyed a lifelong fascination with birds but is particularly drawn to the bluebird.

“You get into this business, and you tend to like an awful lot of different birds, but bluebirds are pretty special—and it’s special that you can deal with them,” he said.

“A lot of birds that are special, but you just have no way of connecting with them. A chickadee is small and does its own thing, and we love them, but we’re not housing them. But bluebirds, they’re just right. We can deal with them and do them some good.”

Bluebirds start nesting in Madison in early spring. On Saturday, June 21, from 8 to 10 a.m., learn about what these lovely songbirds need to raise a family, then tour the Bauer Bluebird Trail to see the birds in action. Learn how to become a bluebird nest box monitor as part of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Citizen Science Program. Next box plans are available. This is an outdoor program, so dress for the weather. All ages, though children must be accompanied by an adult. Instructor: Susannah Graedel. Meets outside the Bauer Park Classroom building. Rain date is Sunday, June 22, from 8 to 10 am. Register here: https://bit.ly/4k4qmh4

Special to Living

Photo courtesy of Michael Fitzsousa

When Susannah and Tom Graedel moved to Connecticut from New Jersey in 1997, they brought with them a love of bluebirds.

Photo courtesy of Michael Fitzsousa

When Susannah and Tom Graedel moved to Connecticut from New Jersey in 1997, they brought with them a love of bluebirds.

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

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

Ribbon Cutting

: 10:30 a.m. Little Sprouts Learning Center, 169 Ledge Hill Rd., Guilford. The learning center offers child-centered learning experiences, lessons, and activities for ages 2 to 5. For info, visit littlesproutsnorthguilford.com.

The Estuary Outreach Series

: 1 p.m. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. The Estuary aims to introduce its mission, highlight its available services, and engage in discussions with community members about the challenges facing the organization, including the funding crisis for the Meals on Wheels program. For info, visit yourestuary.org.

Music by Dan Stevens

: 5 to 7 p.m. Pa's Place, 514 Whitfield St., Guilford. For info, call 203-689-5526 or visit danstevens.net.

Guilford Community Fund (GCF) Annual Meeting

:

5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. GCF will present the 2025 grantees with their awards. For info, email info@guilfordcommunityfund.org or visit guilfordcommunityfund.org.

31st Annual Poetry Presentation

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Winning poets will read their poems and receive their awards. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Open Mic Night

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by Madison’s Poet Laurate Ed Lent. Sign-ups begin at 5:45 p.m. The first 12 to sign up are guaranteed a spot. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

The Poetry of Protest: Just in Case This is Not a Perfect World

: 6 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library 67 Park St. Features a discussion led by Guilford Poet Laureate Mark McGuire-Schwartz. For info or to register, call the library at 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Author Event: Sanibel in Conversation with Tory Bilski To Have and Have More: A Novel

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

Shoreline Sailing Club Event

: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. For active singles 35 and over. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Cost: free for members and first-time guests, $10 for others. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

Concert by Karla Bonoff

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

FRIDAY, JUNE 6

Good Neighbor Lighting: An Informative Event on Lighting and Bird Migration

: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Page Hardware & Appliance Co., 9 Boston St., Guilford. Features outdoor demonstrations about ways to reduce energy bills, save money, and lower carbon footprints by converting outdoor lighting to bird-safe lighting. Cohosted by Page Hardware and two nonprofit organizations combating light pollution, Lights Out Connecticut and Dark Sky. For info, email Janice Ross at jross3340@gmail.com.

Friday Movie Matinee

: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Registration recommended. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Opening Reception for

David Dunlop: Quest for Radiance

: 5 to 8 p.m. Susan Powell Fine Art, 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features wine, hors d'oeuvres, and an opportunity to meet the artist. The exhibit runs through Sunday, July 6. For info, call 203-318-0616 or visit susanpowellfineart.com.

Phantom of the Opera

: 6 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall Auditorium, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Presented by the Shoreline Theater Academy. Free. For info or tickets, contact 860-227-2363 or shorelinetheateracademy@gmail.com, or visit shorelinetheateracademy.org/tickets.

Best of Boston Comedy Festival

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

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Church Tag Sale

: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St., Durham. Outdoor tables will have records, tapes, CDs, books, pictures and frames, baskets, electronics, sporting equipment, and miscellaneous tag sale items. Indoor tables will have clothing, toys, jewelry, china, linens, kitchen supplies, craft supplies, and more.

Calendar for the Week of June 5, 2025

Rain or shine. For info, contact 860-349-3058 or maryellend1947@comcast.net.

Tag Sale

: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. St. John's Episcopal Church, 3 Trumbull Pl., North Haven. Features household items, toys, and more. For info, contact 203-239-0156 or office@stjohns-northhaven.org.

Tag, Plant, and Bake Sale

: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lutheran Church of Madison, 9 Britton Ln. Features household items, kitchenware, linens, jewelry, plants, decorative pots, books, homemade bakery treats, and more. Hosted by the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Guild. Proceeds benefit the church mission projects at home and abroad. For info, call the church at 203-245-4145.

Church Spring Fair

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Mary’s Church of the Visitation, 54 Grove St., Clinton. Features crafters, raffles for cash prizes, food, and more. For info, call the parish office at 860-669-8512.

Madison Lions Club 51st Annual Flea Market

: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Madison Town Green. In conjunction with the ABC bike sale. Free admission. Food and beverage available for purchase. Proceeds benefit the local and state charities supported by the Madison Lions Club. For info, call 860-227-8045.

Trails Day Walk at Angeloni Woodland Preserve

: 9:30

a.m. Angeloni Woodland Preserve. Hikers will begin walking the interconnected trail systems from the cul-de-sac on Chestnut Grove Road in Guilford. Hosted by the North Branford Land Conservation Trust. Led by Frank Angeloni and David Bell. For info, email info@nblandtrust.org or visit nblandtrust.org/events.

Demonstration

: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/events.

: 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Meet at the Sullivan Drive entrance to the East River Preserve, 55 Sullivan Dr., Guilford. Some portions of the planned route are steep, so hiking shoes/boots and poles are recommended. Hosted by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust (GLCT). Led by GLCT President Janet Ainsworth. For info, text 203-530-7826 or visit guilfordlandtrust.org.

Native American Jewelry Exhibition

: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Maximus Home, 143 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features varieties of turquoise, cut cabochon stones, and other semi-precious jewelry. Presented by Martin Seidel from Albuquerque, New Mexico. The show is free and open to the public. For info, contact Lu Leahy at 860-961-9296 or maryluleahy@gmail.com

See page 28

Church

Blacksmith

Nut Plains Woods Trails Day Hike

‘Quest for Radiance’ Illuminates Susan Powell Fine Art

Susan Powell Fine Art is presents , a solo exhibition by artist David Dunlop, running from Friday, June 6 through Sunday, July 6.

Dunlop’s work captures the ephemeral qualities of light, movement, and perception. Through layering semi-transparent Quest for Radiance

pigments on reflective surfaces, his paintings evoke the shifting luminance of sunlight across marshes, the shimmer of color on drifting leaves, and the glowing symphony of city lights.

“Radiance—revealing it, reveling in it, exploring it—that is my quest,” said Dunlop. His paintings blend realism with abstraction, drawing inspiration from science,

art history, and plein air observation to convey the experience of light in motion. Depending on the time and lighting, each piece invites contemplation and may reveal something new with every viewing.

An opening reception will be held Friday, June 6 from 5 to 8 p.m., featuring hors d’oeuvres, wine, and an opportunity to meet the artist.

Susan Powell Fine Art is located at 679 Boston Post Road in Madison. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and visits are available by appointment. For more information, call 203-318-0616, email susanpowell fineart@gmail.com, or visit www.susan powellfineart.com.

David Dunlop, , Oil on brushed gold aluminum, 48 x 48 Luminous Tranquility

David Dunlop, , Oil on aluminum 24 x 36 May to September

Press Release from Susan Powell Fine Art

David Dunlop, , Oil on aluminum, 32 x 32 Lift Off

David Dunlop, , Oil aluminum, 36 x 36 Bright at Twilight on 42nd

Art Blooms at Pratt House

The Essex Historical Society invites the public to experience Pratt House and art in a fresh way with , a new outdoor gallery on the side lawn of Pratt House, Essex’s only historic house museum. The lawn will feature temporary installations by Connecticut artists, with exhibits rotating every two months throughout the summer. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables on the lawn to savor coffee or lunch while taking in the artwork. The society asks visitors to enjoy the space responsibly and leave it clean for others.

Currently on display through June are two works by Horace Miller, a professional artist and teacher. A graduate of Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston, Jamaica, and currently studying at Central Connecticut State University, Miller’s exhibit, , highlights the shared experiences of human struggle despite cultural and ethnic differences.

The Essex Historical Society welcomes local artists to submit works for display during the season; one slot remains for 2025. Submitted pieces must be stable, able to withstand outdoor elements, appropriate for public display, and free from political affiliation. All works are subject to committee review and are temporary. The society does not purchase or retain works after their display period but will promote participating artists on its website and social media. Interested artists should contact Outreach Coordinator Kate Savage.

The Pratt House is located at 19 West Avenue, Essex.

For more information about Pratt House, featured artists, summer events, and volunteering, visit essexhistory.org.

Continued from page 26

Stony Creek Strawberry Festival

: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stony Creek Congregational Church, 192 Thimble Islands Rd. Features strawberry shortcake, homemade biscuits, berries, and freshly whipped cream. A lunch of hamburgers, hot dogs, and beverages will also be available for purchase. For info, contact 203-488-7827 or admin@stonycreekchurchct.org.

Guided Walk at Beacon Hill, Branford

: Noon. Meet at The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven, for a scenic ride to the trailhead. In celebration of National Trails Day. Co-sponsored by the Shoreline Greenway Trail and The Shore Line Trolley Museum. Free admission. For info, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

: Noon to 9 p.m. Ethel Peters Recreational Complex, 145 Glenwood Rd., Clinton. For info, visit clintonrotaryct.com or facebook.com/Clintonrotaryct.

Chats with Local Authors: Karen Warfield

: 1 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Book:

The Emancipation of Hannah Faythe Winslow: A Woman's Journey in Colonial America

. Registration is not required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Summer Crafts with Natalie: Wood Decoupage and Paint Summer Sign

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

in The Preserve State Forest

: 2 to 4:30 p.m. Meet at the parking lot across the street from #231 Ingham Hill Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a moderate to brisk pace over rolling trails. The path may be rocky and walking sticks are helpful. The hike will have a few stops to observe nature and geological features. Bring water and insect protection. Wear boots. Hosted by Old Saybrook Parks and Recreation. Heavy rain cancels. For info, call leader Kathy Connolly at 860-510-2136 or visit the natural side/outdoor programming link at oldsaybrookct.myrec.com/info/activities.

Art on the Lawn

Expressions of the Story of Us

Press Release from the Essex Historical Society

Photo courtesy of the Essex Historical Society

The Essex Historical Society invites the public to experience Pratt House and art in a fresh way with Art on the Lawn, a new outdoor gallery on the side lawn of Pratt House.

Clinton Rotary Cancer Relief Walk

Fireside

Hike

of local teen artists. The exhibit runs Friday, June 6, through Sunday, June 22, with a special opening reception on Sunday, June 8.

GAC Presents ‘The Third Place’ Teen Exhibition

The Third Place

The Guilford Art Center proudly announces the opening of , a vibrant new gallery exhibition showcasing the talents of local teen artists. The exhibit runs Friday, June 6, through Sunday, June 22, with a special opening reception on Sunday, June 8, from 2 to 4 p.m., featuring live music from School of Rock Madison. Admission to both the exhibit and reception is free and open to the public. explores the idea that spaces beyond home and school—so-called “third places”—are vital for young people to express themselves, feel a sense of belonging, and cultivate personal growth through the arts. Reflecting this theme, the exhibit shows how creativity and artistic community serve as powerful tools for youth development and innovation.

The Third Place

The exhibition features a diverse collection of work from teen artists across the shoreline, including paintings, drawings, mixed media, and more.

“The Guilford Art Center is proud to support

The Third Place

young artists and create a space where they can be seen, heard, and celebrated,” said Maureen Belden, executive director of the Guilford Art Center. “ is a testament to the power of creativity and community in shaping confident, thoughtful, and expressive individuals.”

The gallery is open daily and free to visit. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

The Guilford Art Center is located at 411 Church Street (Route 77) in Guilford.

The Guilford Art Center is a nonprofit school, shop, and gallery established to nurture and support excellence in the arts. Through classes for adults and children, gallery programs, a shop of contemporary crafts, and special events, the center fulfills its mission to provide opportunities for the public to participate in the arts, experience their cultural and historical diversity, and appreciate the process and product of creative work.

For more information, visit www.guilford artcenter.org or call (203) 453-5947.

Continued from page 28

Author Talk and Film Showing: An Evening Through Cuba

: 6:30 p.m. SWF Foundation, 348 E. Main St., Clinton. Features Cathy Weiss, author of . Co-hosted by Connecticut Book Festivals and SWF Foundation Gallery. To RSVP, email cathy_weiss@mac.com. For info, visit swffoundation.com.

Public Stargazing Night

: 7 p.m. Young’s Park, 60 Blackstone Ave., Branford. Free admission and parking. Sponsored by the Astronomical Society of New Haven. Open to all. For info, directions, or cancellation notices due to clouds or weather, call 866-808-ASNH or visit asnh.org.

Concert by Nefresh Mountain

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

SATURDAY, JUNE 7 AND SUNDAY JUNE 8

Finding Neverland

: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. The Morgan School Auditorium, 71 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Presented by Shoreline Ballet. Tickets: $30 general admission, $20 children. For info or tickets, call 203-533-5622 or visit shorelineballet.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

Trails Day Weekend 2025: Killingworth Reservoir Trail Hike

: 10 a.m.

Meet at the Platt Nature Center, 44 Roast Meat Hill Rd., Killingworth. Features a 1.5 mile loop in the Killingworth and Kelseytown Reservoir watershed area, which includes some minor hills and will cross the Menunketesuck River footbridge. The loop trail takes hikers past Pete’s Pond and borders the Cockaponset state forest. Hosted by Connecticut Water. For info, call Jessica Baldwin at 203- 623-8657.

The Women of '76

: 2 p.m. Pardee-Morris House, 325 Lighthouse Rd., New Haven. Features a portrayal of five women who witnessed the American Revolution and changed the course of history. Presented by actor Rita Parisi. Free admission. Rain date: Sunday, Aug. 24. For info or to register (required), visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Opening Reception for Opening Reception for

Solstice The Third Place

: 2 to 4 p.m. City Gallery, 994 State St., New Haven. The exhibit runs through Sunday, June 29. For info, contact Kathy Kane at 203-988-6221 or kathykanered@gmail.com, or Karen Wheeler at 203-415-7553 or klw825@gmail.com.

: 2 to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center (GAC), 411 Church St. Features the works of teen artists and live music by peers from School of Rock Madison. The exhibit runs through Sunday, June 22. For info, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Concert by the Shoreline Soul Community Choral

: 3 p.m. First Congregational Church, 122 Broad St., Guilford. Doors open 2:30 p.m. Led by professional singer Angela Clemmons. Presented by Music at the Meetinghouse. Admission is free but a freewill offering is appreciated. Proceeds benefit Raise the Roof, the shoreline’s connection to Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven. For info, contact 203-619-1415 or shorelinesoul@gmail.com.

Community Concert by the Stony Creek Singers

Metal and Cloth: My Time in Cuba In Some Chosen Place

: 4 p.m. Stony Creek Congregational Church, 192 Thimble Islands Rd. Features , a 7-movement work that recounts the history of Stony Creek, and other works. For info, visit stonycreeksingers.org.

Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center

The Guilford Art Center proudly announces the opening of The Third Place, a vibrant new gallery exhibition showcasing the talents

Press Release from the Guilford Art Center

CAS to Open Summer Juried Exhibition

The Clinton Art Society will present its annual Summer Juried Exhibition from Thursday, June 26 through July 30 at Andrews Memorial Town Hall in Clinton.

“This event will be the highlight of our exhibition season as we celebrate visual arts and the vast talents of our member artists,” said Robin Hammeal-Urban, president of the Clinton Art Society. “We are honored to have renowned artist Anda Styler serve as our juror to select works and choose award recipients.”

An opening reception will be held Sunday, June 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend the free event, which will include live music, refreshments, and a wide variety of artwork.

The juried exhibition features works in an array of styles and mediums, highlighting the diversity and talent of artists from across Connecticut and beyond. Art lovers are encouraged to stop by and enjoy the show during regular Town Hall hours, Monday through Friday.

Founded in 1949 by a small group of professional artists, the Clinton Art Society has grown into a regional

hub for the visual arts. Today, it includes members from across New England and offers exhibitions, critique sessions, and educational programming throughout the year. Artists working in all fine-art media, including painting and sculpture, are welcome to join.

Andrews Memorial Town Hall is located at 54 East Main Street in Clinton. For more information, contact casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org.

Jeannette Delmore, , watercolor Mornings Gift

JoAnna Chapin, , watercolor The Fledglings

Press Release from the Clinton Art Society

Victoria Williams, , oil Sunday in the Park with Smartphone

Ceal Swift, , acrylic Lobster Boats

Christine Drago, , watercolor Last Day of Summer

Event to Combat Light Pollution, Protect Migrating Birds

Press Release from Lights Out Connecticut

The greatest spring show in the skies recently concluded over Guilford, yet very few people glimpsed it. The spectacle is the mass migration of millions of birds traveling north to their summer nesting grounds, with the shoreline directly beneath their path.

From early April through the end of May, the night skies over coastal towns served as a superhighway for these hardy travelers, who cover thousands of miles during their annual migration. Connecticut sits under the Atlantic Flyway, where hundreds of migrating bird species use the coastline and green spaces to rest, refuel, and forage at daybreak, when insects become active.

These long-distance travelers have evolved to journey at night when temperatures are cooler, winds are lighter, and predators are less active. Their navigation depends on dark skies so they can orient themselves using illumination from the moon and stars. However, artificial lighting and its increasing intensity pose a lethal new threat to these feathered travelers.

Most migrating birds pass through Connecticut at

Though we may not see the migratory show in the night sky, the birds see us. Our presence on the ground, with ever brighter and more intense artificial lighting, contributes to the catastrophic deaths of up to 2 billion birds each year. Known as light pollution, excessive lighting from buildings, streetlights, bridges, residential, and outdoor sources disorients migrating birds, causing them to lose their naviga-

Continued from page 29

: 4 p.m. Madison Surf Club, 13 Surf Club Rd. The event honors the Daniel Hand High School class of 2025 and gives tribute to Kenny Carter, who will be attending Union College in the fall. Keynote speaker: Marvin Walker, a 2005 Madison ABC alumnus and current regional director for math at KIPP NYC. Open to the public. For info, email madisonabcevents@gmail.com or visit madisonabc.org/events.

Third Annual ChoralFest

: 4 p.m. First Congregational Church, 26 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison. Features 100 voices from area church choirs accompanied by piano, organ, and a 20-piece orchestra. Participants will include choirs from Madison, North Madison, Guilford, North Guilford, Clinton, Westbrook, North Haven, and East Haven. Free but donations are welcome. For info, contact Nathan Bayreuther at 203-245-2739, ext. 14, or nbayreuther@fccmadison.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 10

Vision to Reality: Creating Memorable Buildings and Spaces

: 10 a.m. Guilford Community Center, 32 Church St. Presented by Mitchell Hirsch, architect and partner at Pelli Clarke & Partners. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL

tion cues in the night sky. Confused birds become exhausted, forced to land in unsafe areas where they collide with windows or lit structures, or simply drop from exhaustion and die.

Light pollution is as deadly as chemical

members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Explore Unexpected Twists and Turns with Bestselling Author Lisa Jewell

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

pollution and even more insidious, affecting not only birds but also the reproductive cycles of insects, animals, aquatic life, and aspects of human health.

This sad story, however, offers hope for a happier ending in our community. On Friday, June 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in front of Page Hardware across from the Guilford Green, Lights Out Connecticut and Dark Sky—two leading nonprofits combating light pollution—are partnering with Page Hardware to offer outdoor demonstrations about easy and affordable ways to reduce energy bills, save money, and lower carbon footprints by converting outdoor lighting to bird-safe lighting.

Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a conservation advocate, or simply curious about how to be a better neighbor to nature, this event is for you. Together, let’s make our skies safer for birds—one light at a time.

The event will be held Friday, June 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Page Hardware & Appliance Co., 9 Boston Street, Guilford. For more information about the event, contact Janice Ross at jross3340@ gmail.com. For more information about light pollution and bird migration, contact Lights Out Connecticut founder Craig Repasz at contact@lightsoutct.org or visit www.lightsoutct.org.

Make Your Own Fused Glass Art: Pick Your Project Class

Kate Classic Film: Cookbook Club

Suddenly, Last Summer

: 2 and 7 p.m.

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

: 6 to 8:30 p.m. RiverFire Glass Studio at SoMA, 500 Main St., Deep River. Features a beginner to advancedbeginner class depending on what a participant prefers. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and safety glasses are required. Bring an N95 facemask in case glass powder is involved in the class. Cost: $64. Additional fee may be required depending on selected project. Service fees apply. Materials and firing included. Items will be fired in the kiln and can be picked up in seven to 10 days. For info or to register, call 860-864-5004 or visit riverfireglass.com.

Author Event: Betsy Golden Kellem in Conversation with Debby Applegate

Jumping Through Hoops

Healthy in a Hurry: Real Life. Real Food. Real Fast.

: 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Book: by Danielle Walker. Attendees make a dish of their choosing from a recipe in the cookbook and bring it to the meeting. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

Mandala Tote Bags Workshop Don’t Let Him In

: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Led by nature artist Denise Smith. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-2453959 or visit rjjulia.com.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11

Breastfeeding Support Meeting

: 9:30 to 11 a.m. Grace and St. John’s Episcopal Church, 2927 Dixwell Ave., Hamden. Sponsored by the La Leche League of Hamden/North Haven. For info or to RSVP, email Anne.M@LLLCT.org or visit lllct.org/hamdennorthhaven.

See page 33

Photo courtesy of Lights Out Connecticut

nighttime.

Madison ABC Annual Meeting

Summer Arts Festival Comes to the Essex Green

Enjoy a weekend of art, artist meet-and-greets, and the outdoors at the Summer Arts Festival on the Essex Town Green Saturday, June 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, June 15, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by Arts Center Killingworth and Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, the festival is located at 12 Main Street, Essex.

Visitors will find original artwork by painters working in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, photography, mixed media, and collage. Fine crafts will include pottery, ceramics, woodwork, and unique jewelry creations. Enjoy the many attractions Essex offers, including fine restaurants, classic New England architecture, and scenic vistas.

The 2025 Essex Festival is partially sponsored by Renewal by Andersen. Arts Center Killingworth, the nonprofit festival sponsor, presents several annual festivals and offers workshops and classes for artists of all ages and skill levels.

Spectrum Gallery and Store, an extension of the Arts Center, is located nearby at 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. It is currently exhibiting Nature Up Close through July 6. Spectrum showcases emerging and established artists and offers fine crafts in fabric, glass, ceramics, paper, pottery, jewelry, wood, and more. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit spectrumartgallery.org or call 860-767-0742.

Photo courtesy of the Art Center Killingworth

Photo courtesy of the Art Center Killingworth

Sue Braden-Hull, Swarovski Crystal Starfish Pendant, beaded double strand with handmade beads & Czech glass and crystals, 22in long.

Jean Maki, A Place to Rest, oil on wood, 11in h x 14in.

Press Release from the Arts Center Killingworth

Lisa Conti. , mixed media, photograph on linen w, ink enhancements mounted on wood panel, 8x10.

The Cape

Photo courtesy of the Art Center Killingworth

Legacy Offers Free Mainstage Performance for CT Open House Day

Press Release from Legacy Theatre

The Legacy Theatre, celebrating its fifth anniversary season, will join the State of Connecticut for CT Open House Day on Saturday, June 14, by offering free admission to the 2 p.m. performance of its mainstage production of Keely Baisden Knudsen, executive artistic director of The Legacy Theatre, said, “CT Open House Day 2025 provides The Legacy Theatre with a unique opportunity to give back to the community and expand accessibility to our theatre for some who may not typically be able to attend. After this special performance, there will be a talk-back with Eugene O’Neill scholar Robert Dowling.”

Long Days

According to CT.gov, Connecticut’s official state website, “The purpose of this event is to inspire Connecticut residents to learn about all the experiences in their own backyard, anticipating that this will convert them into ambassadors who will recommend these experiences to other visitors.”

Long Day’s Journey into Night Long Days

is a world premiere comedy. Playwright Gabe McKinley said, “I started this play by simply wondering if one could write a comedy that takes place during the greatest American drama, Eugene O’Neill’s Perhaps foolishly, I gave it a shot. What began as a thought experiment grew into a love letter to

Continued from page 31

9:30 a.m.

actors, the theater in all its forms and, of course, the eternally complicated Mr. O’Neill. I hope everyone enjoys the show as much as I enjoyed writing it.”

Complimentary tickets for the Saturday, June 14, 2 p.m. performance are available while supplies last at www.LegacyTheatreCT.org, with a limit of two tickets per person. Tickets for all other performances are available for purchase at the website or by calling the box office at 203-315-1901. Long Days runs from June 12 through June 29.

The Legacy Theatre is located at 128 Thimble Islands Road in the Stony Creek Village of Branford.

A fully accessible professional theatre company and training center, The Legacy Theatre serves as a cultural hub along the Connecticut shoreline, uniting audiences through timeless classical works and fresh contemporary theater. The theatre is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of visionary theatre-makers, incubating emerging new works, and inspiring a lifelong love of the arts in audiences of all ages. The theatre, fully renovated prior to its 2021 opening, occupies the former Stony Creek Puppet Theatre, a building with a century of rich history that includes performances by Orson Welles and, in 2024, a musical directed by Julie Andrews.

Meet at St. George Church parking lot, 33 Whitfield St., Guilford. Features a docent-led tour of the Jeremy Frey basketry exhibit. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $64, includes a catered lunch at the museum. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

: 9:45 a.m. 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Greene Art Gallery garden, 29 Whitfield St., Guilford. Led by yoga instructor and practitioner Erin Schuster. Cost: freewill donation upon arrival by cash or check. Proceeds benefit Women & Family Life Center. For info or to register (required), email to shorelinectyoga@gmail.com.

: 12:30 p.m.

New Haven Museum (NHM), Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Presented by Daphne Stratton Gignac, a graduating history major student from Yale University. For info or to register (required), call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Presented by Amy J. Barry and Haley Grunloh, author and illustrator of the children’s book, . For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

Third Thursday Movie Matinee

: 10 a.m. to noon. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Leverage the Media Tools You Own

: Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Online event. Presented by Melissa Tarlton of Miranda Creative. Hosted by SCORE Southeastern Connecticut Chapter. Supported by M&T Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct/local-workshops.

Mary’s Culinary Class: Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo and S’mores Cookie Bars

: 5 to 7 p.m. Meet in the kitchen at the East Haven Recreation Department, 1 Maple St. For children ages 5 to 12. Open to East Haven residents and nonresidents. Hosted by the East Haven Parks and Recreation. Cost: $40. Bring a drink to class. For info or to register (required), visit the class schedule link at marysculinaryclassesllc.com.

Opening Night for Long Days

: 7 p.m. The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. The show runs through Sunday, June 29. Other showtimes available. For info, call 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 13

Concert by the U.S. Coast Guard

: 10 a.m. Evergreen Woods, 88 Notch Hill Rd., North Branford. Features a performance by the brass quintet of the U.S. Coast Guard Band, with two trumpets, horn, trombone, and tuba. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Free and open to the public. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

Annual Tag, Plant, and Bake Sale

: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thomas Griswold House, 171 Boston St., Guilford. For info, visit guilfordkeepingsociety.org/events.

Lacemaking at Dudley Farm

: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/events.

Neurodiverse Exceptional Youth Society Parents Coffee Chat

: 10 a.m. to noon. Guilford Town Green, 33 Whitfield St. For parents and caregivers to share experiences and learn more about the nonprofit NXYS: Neurodiverse Exceptional Youth Society. For info, email nxysociety@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy of the Legacy Theatre

The Legacy Theatre, celebrating its fifth anniversary season, will join the State of Connecticut for CT Open House Day on Saturday, June 14, by offering free admission to the 2 p.m. performance of its mainstage production of Long Days.

Bus Trip to Bruce Museum in Greenwich, Connecticut

Outdoor Yoga for a Cause

Untold Tales of Yale’s Immigrant Artisans The Inside Story on Publishing a Picture Book

Real estate

A Newly Constructed Home

The lower-level surprises with 9-foot ceilings and large windows that invite natural light and possibilities for future expansion, adding value and versatility to the home.

The Sound

Valley Courier Thursday, June 5, 2025

Discover the perfect blend of elegance and comfort in this newly constructed home on scenic Tanner Marsh Road. This property boasts four luxurious bedrooms and 4.1 bathrooms, including a primary bedroom on both the first and second floors, ensuring ample privacy and convenience for all residents.

Quality craftsmanship is evident in every corner, from the high-end finishes to the thoughtful layout. The sun-drenched sunroom with vaulted ceiling, shiplap trim, and limestone gas fireplace is a true highlight, offering a seamless transition to one of the two expansive outdoor decks/patios—ideal spots for soaking in the picturesque early evening sunsets and contemplating adding a pool to the beautiful lot.

412TannerMarshRoad, Guilford Year Built: Sq. Feet: Acres:

2025 4,000 3.14 Colonial, Cottage 4 4 full, 1 half $2,150,000

The home’s gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, designed with stunning finishes and state-of-the-art commercial appliances.

The lower-level surprises with 9-foot ceilings and large windows that invite natural light and possibilities for future expansion, adding value and versatility to the home.

Located minutes to I-95 and the Guilford train station with easy access to Yale, hospitals, and the Guilford historic district, convenience is an integral part of the lifestyle. Promising a balanced blend of upscale living and practical accessibility, this home is more than a place to live, it’s the cornerstone for your next chapter.

This home is being offered for sale by William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty for $2,150,000. For more information or a showing, contact Diane Dupont at 203-506-4218. An open house will be held on June 8 from noon to 2 p.m.

home's

is a

finishes and stateof-the-art commercial appliances.

The

gourmet kitchen

chef's dream, designed with stunning

Discover the perfect blend of elegance and comfort in this newly constructed home on scenic Tanner Marsh Road.

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

EAST HAVEN

269 Glenwood Drive

: Estate of Betty B. Frink and Bobette F. Schmid to Carter T. and Elise Orce, $387,500 on May 12

3-1

: Barbara F Suraci Ft and Brian A. Suraci to Nitz Ft and Jennifer L. Suraci, $375,000 on May 9

17 Beechwood Road

: Estate of Joseph Szaszfai and Julie Edwards to Robert Westrin, $600,000 on May 16 : James G. Camuti to James T. and Jay M. Brennan, $525,000 on May 14 : Donald P Calcagnini Ft and Elise C. Palumbo to Bryan P. Adinolfi, $1,050,000 on May 15

214 Brushy Plain Road

101 Limewood Avenue Unit 1

615-627 Main Street

: Theresa J. and Ellen B. Sikel to Pink Granite Partners LLC, $650,000 on May 14

509 Plymouth Colony Unit 509

: Yizzel Abreau to Kenneth Pesce and Harrison Obbins, $319,998 on May 15 : Warren Cruver to Lawrence J. and Donna R. Mercugliano, $28,500 on May 16 : Laurie I. Brennan and Michael F. Zendan to Siobhan Devlin, $240,000 on May 13

40 Quarry Dock Road

49 Rose Street

NORTH BRANFORD

: William J. and Janet M. Wolfe to Justin and Kathryn Mccabe, $380,000 on May 14 : William and Kenneth Neubig to Michael P. and Louise S. Bogert, $139,900 on May 15 : Peter Nelson to Antonietta Izzo, $150,000 on May 14 : Sandra Grebinar T and Lisa Antonecchia to George Mattie, $550,000 on May 16

8 Clancy Street

: Estate of Nicholas J. Pizzorusso and Lorraine Pizzorusso to Teresa M. Kraszewski and Justin F. Vanderharten, $332,000 on May 15 : Andrew and Abigail Stein to David D. Beatty, $270,000 on May 16 :

375 Coe Avenue Unit 23

111 Cosey Beach Avenue Unit 7

James Narduzzo to Hope Looney, $560,000 on May 16

7 Deerfield Street

: Edward M. Sabatino and Anna Elise to Melissa Santamaria, $250,000 on May 12

7 Gordon Street

: Estate of V.J. Castellon III and Vincent Castellon to Jeffrey Wimbush, $330,000 on May 12 : Mark Batchelder to Angel Family Landscaping, $479,900 on May 12 : Estate of Pasquale Garguilo to Mortgage Assets Mgmt LLC, $240,600 on May 12 : Giovanny F. Sanchez to Hermia Bertrand, $505,000 on May 15

270 Hemingway Avenue

611 Main Street

27 Renshaw Drive

173 Russo Avenue Unit 412

:

Ridgewood Properties LLC to Michael J. Celentano, $260,000 on May 16

140 Thompson Street Unit 8A

:

Robert L. Monack to Lulaj LLC, $160,000 on May 16 : Christopher Pizzorusso to Raymond Adkins and Elvia E. Martin, $320,000 on May 12

128 Vista Drive

GUILFORD

26 Arrowhead Drive

: Peter J. and

Jeanne Stein to Tucker Randle and Marnie Merrill, $980,000 on May 14

281 Boston Street

: Kenneth G.

Kohary to Phillip Ross, $450,000 on May 16

519 West Lake Avenue

: Kevin F.

Duggan to Kurt and Linda Woodhouse, $515,000 on May 14

247 Wilderwood Drive

: Brian G.

Rich to 247 Wilderwood LLC, $455,000 on May 14

KILLINGWORTH

2 Tower Hill Road

: Allan M. and Catherine M. Stebinger to Aaron J. Tonks, $450,000 on May 15

MADISON

3 5th Street

: Elizabeth Billik to Mark and Nancy Daley, $65,000 on May 12

71 Bradley Road Unit 6

: Jay & Reinhard Recovery to Core Group Realty LLC, $625,000 on May 14

18 Centre Village Drive Unit 18

:

Estate of Anne G. Thompson and Scott Grey to Helen C. and Peter S. Knudsen, $505,000 on May 12

1928 Durham Road

: Premier Prop Soln Prtnr to Paula M. Eldridge, $512,000 on May 16

31 Governors Way

: Judith Velenchik to Jodi and Elliot Westwater, $1,600,000 on May 13

16 Harkness Drive

: John K. and Margaret M. Sprague to Margaret O. Maruzo, $546,000 on May 13

: Nick Sergey Mehmet LLC to Hamdiya M. Ibrahim and Ismaila Musah, $450,000 on May 8

: Sargis Ohanyan to Hesui Li, $485,000 on May 7

: Myung S. Park to Augustin K. and Elisabeth N. Yao, $530,300 on May 5

: 301 303 State St Re LLC to 301 State Ip Assoc LLC, $1,900,000 on May 8

: Estate of Richard Donabedian and Paul E. Whitaker to Sarah Lipsker, $385,000 on May 9

: Matthew W. and Brittney R. Schloemann to Tony Ni, $460,000 on April 8

OLD SAYBROOK

: Kevin R. and Mary A. Spedding to Daniel Pumerantz, $725,000 on May 14

: Penelope South Hein Irt and Lauren E. Ohara to Gregory and Lisa Ghezzi, $805,000 on May 13

48 Stonewall Lane 7 Wildcat Road

: George Marvin to Maynard C. and Jessica C. Wheeler, $620,000 on May 16

: Sunil Dcunha Lt and Sunil Dcunha to Courtney Fraser and Brian P. Williams, $870,000 on May 13

NORTH HAVEN

: Thomas F Shelto RET and Thomas F. Shelto to David Sullivan, $699,000 on May 12 : Thomas J. and Michelle M. Murphy to Penelope South Hein Irt and Lauren Chara, $895,000 on May 14

: Donna C. Hilliard to Alfredo D. and Sandra P. Botet, $650,000 on May 16 : Kristin F. Bartunek and Leah E. Sousa to Luanne Murphy and Richard Bueno, $610,000 on May 12

Continued from page 33

Family Day

: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Read to Grow, 53 School Ground Rd., Branford, Features read-aloud time with authors Lizzy Rockwell and Gaia Cornwall, snacks, drinks, games, live entertainment, and more. Free and open to the public. For info, call 203-488-6800 or visit facebook.com/ReadtoGrowCT.

2025 Worth Tasting Tour

: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Departs from the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale, 155 Temple St. Features a culinary walking tour to six to eight restaurants in downtown New Haven. Hosted by Stephen Fries, food columnist and professor of hospitality management. Remaining dates: Saturdays, Sept. 13, Oct. 25, and Dec. 13 (holiday tour). Parking available at the Crown Street or Temple Street Garage. Tickets: $80 each, except for the December tour, which is $85. Service fees apply. For info or to make a reservation (required), call 203-415-3519 or visit worthtasting.co/newhaven.

Piece by Piece: A Community Puzzling Group

: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Registration is not required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Plant Sale

: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hyland House Museum, 84 Boston St., Guilford. In celebration of Connecticut Open House Day and National Garden Week. Hosted by the Leete’s Island Garden Club. Features member-grown perennials, annuals, vegetables, and more. Proceeds support town beautification and other projects. For info, call 203-453-0780.

Summer Market and Open House

: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Allis-Bushnell House Museum, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society, in conjunction with Connecticut Open House Day. Features the new exhibit, "For Medicinal Purposes Only," showcasing medical devices, advice, and medication containers of the past. Guests may also proceed to the back lawn for the summer market with vendors selling photographs, prints, and jewelry. Refreshments will be offered. Free admission but donations are welcome. For info, visit madisonhistory.org.

Free Mainstage Performance:

ONGOING EVENTS

Art Exhibits

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) Gallery

: 1004

Yale University Art Gallery

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

David Goldblatt: No Ulterior Motive:

Runs through June 22.

Welcome Summer BBQ: A Church Dinner Long Days

: 2 p.m. The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. In conjunction with Connecticut Open House Day. The performance will be followed by a talk-back with Robert Dowling, a Eugene O'Neill scholar. For info, visit legacytheatrect.org.

: 6 p.m. North Guilford Congregational Church (NGCC), 159 Ledge Hill Rd. Features BBQ chicken, salads and slaws, fresh watermelon, and strawberry shortcake. Tickets: $25 for adults, $10 for children ages 10 and under. Tickets are limited. For info, call Debbie Ripley at 203-605-0429 or visit facebook.com/NGCCUCC.

Main St.: For info, contact 203-433-4071 or baca06405@gmail.com, or visit branfordarts.org. : Runs through June 30.

Spring 2025 Art Show

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) West Gallery

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

Vibrant Vision of Painter Howard Fussiner

: Runs through Aug. 31.

City Gallery

: 994 State St., New Haven: For info, email info@city-gallery.org or visit city-gallery.org.

Solstice

: Runs June 6 through June 29.

Guilford Art Center (GAC)

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

The Third Place

: Runs June 6 through June 22.

James Blackstone Memorial Library Upper Rotunda Gallery

: 758 Main St., Branford: For info, call 203-4881441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Rod Serling: Submitted for Your Approval

: Runs through June 30.

Kehler Liddell Gallery

: 873 Whalley Ave., New Haven: For info, visit shorelinearts.org.

IMAGES 2025 Photography Competition

: Runs Aug. 2 through Aug. 24.

Madison Cinema Art Gallery

Music

Edward A. Norton VFW Post 7666:

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

The Shore Line Trolley Museum:

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

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

The Wharf:

Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. For info, call 203-350-0014 or visit thewharfmadison.com. Fridays: 8 to 10 p.m. Acoustic Fridays. Various performers.

Groups and Activities Banned Book Club: Bingo

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

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

Blackstone Fiber Art Community:

Solo Show by Linda McCarthy

: 761 Boston Post Rd.: For info, email linda@lindamccarthyart.com. : Runs through June 24.

Mary C. Daly Art Gallery at Mercy by the Sea Retreat and Conference Center

: 167 Neck Rd., Madison: For info, visit mercybythesea.org.

Into the Light

: Runs through June 28.

Nathanael B. Greene Community Center

Guilford Art League 2025 Spring Show

: 32 Church St., Guilford: For info, visit guilfordartleague.org. : Runs through July 15.

New Haven Museum

: 114 Whitney Ave. For info, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Enduring Creativity: Celebrating 125 Years of the New Haven Paint & Clay Club

: Runs through June 28.

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

: Runs through February 2026.

Susan Powell Fine Art

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

David Dunlop: Quest for Radiance

: Runs June 6 through July 6.

Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library Keyes Gallery

:

146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek: For info, call 203488-8702 or visit wwml.org/gallery.

Ink Slingers Unite: Works by the Printmaking Faculty of the Creative Arts Workshop

: Runs through June 23.

6 to 8.m. Wednesdays. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. All experience levels in fiber art forms are welcome. Registration is not required, drop-ins welcome. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Blackstone Library Tour:

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

Book Club:

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

Chair Yoga with Martha:

6:30 p.m. Fourth Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Christ Episcopal Church Choir Rehearsal:

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

See page 38

All Ages Invited to TradesUp Woodworking Event

All ages are invited to immerse themselves in a free program exploring the trade of woodworking with hand tools. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 22, at the Henry Whitfield State Museum.

TradesUp will offer a STEAM-based learning experience with hands-on activities for participants to gain skills such as basic math, measuring, and hand-eye coordination while developing confidence and self-sufficiency. TradesUp is a nonprofit organization providing opportunities to try the trades and experience the joy of hands-on creating, making, and problemsolving.

Andrew Rowand, museum curator at the Eric Sloane Museum in Kent, Connecticut, will give participants the chance to work with antique woodworking hand tools. Eric Sloane, a renowned Connecticut artist and author, amassed a large collection of early American hand tools now on display at the Eric Sloane Museum as a tribute to American artisanship.

Rick Liegl and Lara Miller will demonstrate decorative woodcarving unique to 1600s and 1700s New England, using traditional patterns like those found on period furniture exhibited in the Whitfield House. Rick, a woodworker for many years, has spent the last year teaching Lara this historical woodcarving and joinery in an apprenticeship funded by the National

Continued from page 37

TradesUp will offer a STEAM-based learning experience with hands-on activities for participants to gain skills such as basic math, measuring, and hand-eye coordination while developing confidence and self-sufficiency.

Endowment for the Arts, the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History, the Connecticut Cultural Fund, and the Connecticut Office of the Arts.

Sweeney Todd:

Christian Science Church Service and Sunday School:

10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sundays. First Church of Christ, Scientist, 49 Park St., Guilford. Open to all. For info, call 203453-1975 or visit christianscienceCT.org/Guilford.

Christian Science Testimony Meeting:

7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays. First Church of Christ, Scientist, 49 Park St., Guilford. Open to all. For info, call 203-453-1975 or visit christianscienceCT.org/Guilford.

Theater Long Days:

The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Runs June 12 through June 29. For info, call 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.org.

We've Got Magic to Do!

: Madison Lyric Stage, Deacon John Grave House grounds, 581 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Runs June 20 through June 22. For info, call 203-2156329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.

Trades Day will take place rain or shine. Admission to the Whitfield House and visitor center exhibit galleries is free. For more information, call 203-453-2457,

: The

Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Runs Aug. 7 through Aug. 24. For info, call 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.org.

Farmers Market

City Seed Edgewood Park Farmers Market

: 10 a.m. to

1 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 23. Edgewood Park, Corner of West Rock and Whalley Avenue. For info, visit cityseed.org/cityseed-markets.

City Seed Wooster Square Farmers Market

: 9 a.m. to

1 p.m. Saturdays through Nov. 22. Conte West Hills Magnet School, 511 Chapel St., New Haven. For info, visit cityseed.org/cityseed-markets.

Durham Farmers Market

: 9 a.m. to noon. Saturdays, June 7 through Oct. 4. Durham Community Center grounds, 144 Picket Ln., or on the Town Green. For info, email farmersmarket@townofdurhamct.org or visit townofdurhamct.org/articles/summer-farmers-marketupdate.

email whitfieldmuseum@ct.gov, or visit https://portal.ct.gov/ECD-HenryWhitfieldStateMuseum.

: 4 to

7 p.m. Thursdays, through Oct. 30 (later, if weather permits). Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. For info, email farmersmarket@guilfordfair.org or visit guilfordyouthandfamilyservices.org.

: 3 to 6 p.m. Fridays through Thanksgiving. Madison Green. For info, visit madisonctfarmersmarket.com.

Dudley Farm Farmers Market

: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays, June 7 through October. The Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/farmers-market.

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 Henry Whitfield State Museum

Photo courtesy of the Henry Whitfield State Museum

Photo courtesy of the Henry Whitfield State Museum

Rick Liegl and Lara Miller will demonstrate decorative woodcarving unique to 1600s and 1700s New England, using traditional patterns like those found on period furniture exhibited in the Whitfield House.

The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Farmers Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds

Madison Farmers Market

The

Shoreline Soul to Perform Free Gospel Concert

Press Release from Shoreline Soul

The Shoreline Soul community gospel choir will present its annual spring concert on Sunday, June 8, at 3 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, 122 Broad Street on the Guilford Green. Doors open at 2:30 p.m., and admission is free.

Presented by the Music at the Meetinghouse concert series, the performance promises an afternoon of joy, inspiration, and powerful music that celebrates the spirit of community. The 90-voice choir, under the direction of professional singer and choir director Angela Clemmons, features singers from across the shoreline and beyond who participated in Shoreline Soul’s five-session gospel workshop.

The concert will also feature a special appearance by guest soloist Erica Wilkins, whose dynamic vocals and emotional delivery have captivated past audiences.

“This is more than a concert—it’s a moment of grace where music, community, and spirit come together in perfect harmony,” Clemmons said.

A free-will offering will be collected to support Raise the Roof, the shoreline’s connection to Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven. Proceeds will help fund the organization’s 24th sponsored home, currently under construction at 24 Old Schoolhouse Road in Madison.

For more information, contact Angela Clemmons at 203-619-1415 or shorelinesoul@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy of Shoreline Soul

The Shoreline Soul community gospel choir will present its annual spring concert on Sunday, June 8.