The Sound 07-10-25 by dayshorepublishing

July 10, 2025

Branford, North Branford & Northford

Vol. XXIX Iss. 28

Branford Police Lead Multi-State Fraud Investigation

Press Release from the Branford Police Department

A Missouri man has been extradited to Connecticut after a months-long investigation by Branford police into a wire fraud scheme that stole more than $350,000 from a Branford-based company.

According to police, in May 2024, $355,859 was stolen from a local finance company

through a fraudulent wire transfer. The funds were initially deposited into an account opened under a fictitious name, then traced to a personal JPMorgan Chase account belonging to Shawn Evans, 57, of Sikeston, Missouri.

With assistance from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office in Benton, Missouri, Branford detectives located Evans and conducted a

joint investigation that linked him to what police described as a broader fraud operation.

An arrest warrant was secured for Evans on charges of larceny in the first degree and conspiracy to commit larceny in the first degree. The New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office approved the warrant for extradition.

See Branford Police Lead page 4

Summer Splash

com

Kenny Cowan, 2, plays at the water feature while his sister Gavin, 4, splashes behind him at the Foote Park Splash Pad in Branford on July 6. The siblings cooled off during an early evening visit with their parents as temperatures climbed into the mid-80s.

is leading with love for local animals....................2

Making History

Lily Ardito pasted herself in the record books as the most decorated athlete in North Branford High School history..............................12

A Travelogue

Liz Egan continues her series recounting her travels with Con Brio......................................21

Rebekah DeMatteo

PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ TheSound

774 Boston Post Rd. Old Saybrook, CT

Rebekah DeMatteo: Leading with Love for Local Animals

Staff Writer By Eric O’Connell

As vice president of Army’s Legacy Animal Rescue and Sanctuary in Westbrook, Rebekah DeMatteo is helping launch the newly merged organization, complete major renovations, and spread the word about a June 22 fundraiser to support the effort.

Rebekah first became involved with Army’s Legacy four years ago while working at Central Hospital for Veterinary Medicine. That’s when she met Amanda Armstrong, the founder of Army’s Legacy.

“They had recently opened and were working to build relationships with local vets,” Rebekah tells the . In speaking with Amanda, Rebekah learned about one particularly troubled dog the new organization was struggling to help. A dog trainer by profession, she offered to assist Harbor News

Person of the Week

however she could.

“We started talking and then we never stopped talking and now here I am as vice president,” Rebekah says with a laugh.

Army’s Legacy is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of dogs and cats. Its mission is to ensure that each animal is cared for and placed in a good home. The group recently took over the facility at 647 Horse Hill Road, previously operated by the Valley Shore Animal Welfare League. The two organizations officially merged in January.

Since the merger, Rebekah says the group has been busy

See Rebekah page 7

Photo courtesy of Rebekah DeMatteo

Rebekah DeMatteo is one of the driving forces behind Army’s Legacy Animal Rescue’s upcoming “adult field day” fundraiser.

Staying on Top

The Braves maintained their first place lead in the Deep River Horseshoe League last week

Summer Basketball Camps

There are three weeks left in Madison Hoop Dreams’ summer basketball camps, and signups are still open

Holiday Fishing Scene

Ahoy! Check out Captain Morgan’s weekly fishing column of the week

“She was never looking for accolades. It was never about the awards or recognition. She’s just genuinely caring.”

Branford Police Lead Multi-State Fraud Investigation

Continued from page 1

Evans was arrested June 20 in Sikeston as a fugitive from justice and held on a $500,000 bond. He later waived his right to an extradition hearing.

Branford detectives transported him back to Connecticut on July 1. He was processed and formally charged, and arraigned July 2 in New Haven Superior Court.

Police said a substantial portion of the

stolen funds has since been recovered from JPMorgan Chase accounts and returned to the victim company.

“This case highlights the increasing complexity of financial crimes that span multiple states and utilize digital currencies,” Branford police said in a statement.

“We are grateful for the cooperation of the Scott County Sheriff’s Office and the support of the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office throughout this investigation.”

GrandparentsRaisingGrandchildrenGroup

The Estuary, located at 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, holds the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group every fourth Monday at 5:30 p.m. Hosted by the Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services clinical staff, the group provides conversation, support, and resources for grandparents who—for a variety of reasons—become parents to their grandchildren. Registration is not required. All area towns are welcome. For more information, contact 860-510-5042 or heather.mcneil@oldsaybrookct.gov.

BRANFORD TOWN MEETINGS

NOTE: Call the town clerk at

or visit the Branford town website at

to learn how to participate in the following meetings:

Thursday,July10

Inland Wetlands Commission Planning and Zoning Commission Special Meeting

Representative Town Meeting Public Services Committee

p.m.

NOTE: Call the town clerk at 203-484-6015 or visit the North Branford town website at www.northbranfordct.gov to learn how to participate in the following meetings:

Board of Police Commissioners Traffic Committee Board of Police Commissioners Representative Town Meeting Education Committee

Housing Authority Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter Commission

Monday,July14 Tuesday,July15 Wednesday,July16

Zoning Board of Appeals Board of Selectmen

Contacting The Sound

As your hometown paper, The Sound welcomes reader contributions and questions. If it’s important to you, we want to know about it. Here are the best ways to bring matters to our attention.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Fax 203-245-9773

Obituaries

Obituary Joseph Rollo Branford

A long-time resident of Branford, Joseph "Joe" Peter Rollo died unexpectedly at his home on June 23, 2025. Born in New Haven on Dec. 22, 1950, Joe was the son of Joseph and Helen Johnson Rollo.

Raised in East Haven, he was educated in East Haven public schools, St. Vincent DePaul Middle School, and at UConn. Joe joined the U.S. Navy in 1971 and was a proud veteran. He worked as an electrical engineer and was plant manager at ACG Electronics, which was ultimately purchased by Data Physics. He was a dedicated Boy Scout leader and filled with pride that both his sons became Eagle Scouts. A member of the Branford Exchange Club, he was famous for making fried dough at the Branford Festival annually. Additionally, he supported BHS athletics, filming football and hockey games for ADs Jake and Sav. Joe was predeceased by Linda Samuels Rollo, his adored wife of 35 years, and the loving mother of his children. Joe fiercely loved his family. He was the father of Aaron Joseph Rollo, who, with his wife Julie Williams, gave him two amazing granddaughters to love, Sophia Pearl Rollo and Jamie Kristen Thornton. Andrew Joseph Rollo was born four years after Aaron; he and his wife, Molly, delighted Joe with Penny Josephine and Samuel Robert Rollo. Daughter Sarah Marie Rollo was born 15 months after Andrew and lives

Find Obituaries

Posted Daily Online

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

in Cromwell. Joe is also survived by his loving companion Francine Cardali, with whom he shared many adventures; his sister Lynn Hidek (Ron Frattini); sister-in-law Shelly Greenhouse (Matthew); and nieces and nephews: Lori Hidek Franck (Kevin), E.J. Hidek, Molly Greenhouse, and Ben Greenhouse; and great-nieces and nephews, Madeline Leahy (Joe), Lottie Franck, and Wyatt Bernard. They loved Joe deeply. A host of cousins and friends will miss him profoundly. Joe was predeceased by his brother-in-law Edward Hidek.

Friends were invited to pay their respects on June 29 at W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 N. Main Street, Branford. Funeral services were at Clancy’s on June 30. Burial followed at Beaverdale Cemetery in New Haven. All who loved Joe will forever cherish his legendary hugs, his ever-curious mind, his talent as a photographer, and his hearty laugh. Joe identified as a “Proud Scot,” always sharing that his father was born in Scotland. This past April, Joe joined Aaron and his family for a trip through Scotland, discovering the famed ”Rollo Church,“ a national historic heritage site in Scotland. His zest for overseeing the annual Thanksgiving celebration earned him the nickname of “Grandpa Turkey” or GPT. Every Thanksgiving, there he was, carving the turkey and feeding all the family dogs begging for a treat. Last year, he was surrounded by Pepper, Herschel, Potato, Fern, Fergus, and Griswold. Joe’s humans and canines are eternally thankful that he loved us and we loved him back.

Rebekah DeMatteo: Leading with Love for Local Animals

Continued from page 2

completing extensive renovations.

“We officially got all our licenses recently so that’s exciting. We’re still doing some renovations, but it’s a completely new building now and we’re looking to have a soft opening to the public in a few weeks,” she says.

To help fund remaining startup expenses, Army’s Legacy is hosting both a virtual and in-person fundraiser on Saturday, June 22, from 6 to 9 p.m.

The event is being conducted by Jordan’s Way, an organization founded by Kris Rotonda that raises money for animal shelters nationwide. According to its website, Jordan’s Way has raised over $12 million and built a popular social media presence around its fundraising efforts.

As for the event, Rebekah says there are many ways for the community to get involved, even from home.

“It’s basically going to be like an adult field day. We’re kept a little bit in the dark about what exactly is going to happen, but it’s going to be very fun, very family friendly, very funny, and we’re even going to get a little bit dirty,” Rebekah explains.

While the exact lineup of activities is a surprise, possible games include locking staff members in a kennel until $500 is raised or a manhunt-style challenge.

“It’s all going to be a lot of fun. We need a minimum of 30 adult volunteers, but kids are welcome too. You just need to contact us beforehand so we know we have room,” Rebekah says.

Army’s Legacy can be contacted at (203) 915-4722. The fundraiser will also be livestreamed on the Army’s Legacy Facebook page, where viewers can donate and

participate online.

“It’s going to be such a fun night and we’re really excited,” Rebekah says.

As vice president, Rebekah says, “I wear a big hat where I do a little bit of everything.” One day may include returning phone calls and facilitating adoptions, while another might mean overseeing volunteers or shelter operations.

Asked what she enjoys most about the role, Rebekah says, “I like connecting families and helping them find that missing part. Finding the perfect family for our animals and seeing that full circle moment between the people and the animals right before my eyes.”

While a date hasn’t been set yet for the full public opening, Rebekah says the group is planning a community event to give tours of the facility and offer yard games.

“Right now, we really need volunteers for things like cleaning, laundry, working with the dogs, playing with the kittens, or if you can’t do that, we need help too with things like listening to voicemails, returning phone calls. There’s always something we can use help with,” she says.

Anyone interested in volunteering can visit armyslegacy.org or email Rebekah at Armyslegacyrescuesanctuary@gmail.com.

Originally from North Branford, Rebekah now lives in North Haven. In her spare time, she enjoys fishing with her boyfriend, both for fun and in tournaments.

Though she’s new to the area, she says she already feels welcomed.

“Everyone has been so welcoming and willing to get to know us for who we are. They’ve been really great,” Rebekah says.

Members of the public are invited to

CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

VIRTUAL PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING

State Project No. 0172-0535

Traffic Control Signal Replacements in Eastern Connecticut (Chaplin, Griswold, Ledyard, New London, Norwich, Old Saybrook, and Plainfield)

Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

Learn More & Register: https://portal.ct.gov/DOTEasternCT0172-0535

The purpose of this meeting is to provide the community with an opportunity to learn about the proposed project and allow an open discussion of any views and comments concerning the proposed improvements. A Q&A session will immediately follow the presentation.

The purpose of this project is to upgrade or revise existing traffic control signal equipment to current standards. Existing equipment will be replaced with updated infrastructure at existing signalized intersections on state roadways.

Right-of-way impacts are expected to be minimal around new signal equipment and newly installed sidewalks at some project intersections.

Construction is expected to begin spring 2027. The estimated cost is $10 million, with 100% state funds.

The public can submit comments and questions during the two-week public comment period following the meeting. Please direct comments and questions by Tuesday, July 29 to DOTSignalReplacements@ct.gov or (860) 594-2189.

ACCESSIBILITY

Non-English translation options will be available on Zoom and YouTube. The recording will also be posted following the meeting in the list of CTDOT virtual public meetings at portal.ct.gov/ctdotVPIMarchive

For limited internet access, call (877) 853-5257 with Meeting ID 821 3590 1168. Project information can be mailed within one week by contacting Kaethe Podgorski at DOTSignalReplacements@ct.gov or (860) 594-2189.

For hearing/speech disabilities, dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS). Request language assistance from CTDOT’s Language Assistance at (860) 594-2109 at least five business days before meeting.

Building Natural Fairy Houses with BLT

Children ages 5 to 9 are invited to a magical morning of creativity during a fairy house-building workshop at Van Wie Woods on Saturday, July 12, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. (Rain date: July 13).

The event will be led by Rachel Obbard, who combines a love of gardening, crafting, and all things miniature with a professional background in engineering and polar research. Obbard has conducted ice science research funded by the National Science Foundation and currently teaches writing at Dartmouth College. She also teaches fairy house construction at Cobb Hill Co-Housing in Vermont.

The program begins near the trail kiosk at Van Wie Woods, located near 100 Red Hill Road. After an introduction to fairy house inspiration, guidelines for collecting materials, and some starter supplies, participants and their accompanying adults will walk a short trail and select their own building sites. Children will then craft their own fairy houses using natural materials provided or found on-site. At the end of the event, the group will gather to admire each creation.

The event is free, but registration is required and limited to 12 children. Parents or guardians must remain with their child throughout the workshop. Register at tinyurl.com/BLTfairy houses.

Participants are advised to dress to prevent tick and mosquito exposure, bring water and snacks, and note that there are no restroom facilities at the site. Dogs are not permitted.

LEGAL NOTICE NORTH BRANFORD PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION

The North Branford Planning & Zoning Commission at its June 26, 2025 Special Meeting:

1. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS: Appl. #2025-3 – 1874 Middletown Avenue – Site Plan request to operate a facility to foster cats and conduct a spay/neuter clinic for cats. Owner: AMB Property Holdings LLC/Applicant: The Greater New Haven Cat Project, Inc.

2. FAVORABLE REPORT: CGS Section8-24 Referral regarding a Utility Easement request from Regional Water Authority thru Town owned property at 99 Doral Farm Road

William Galdenzi, Vice Chairman

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Brian Fenn Lynch (25-00238)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated June 23, 2025, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Taylor Carafeno, Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Palma Migliore Lynch

c/o MICHAEL TODD TAYLOR, THE LAW OFFICES OF MICHAEL TODD TAYLOR, 161 MAIN STREET, WEST HAVEN, CT 06516

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 June 26, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.

The following applications were approved with conditions:

1. IW#25.05.01-8 Orchard Avenue-Replacement of a privately owned bridge

The following applications were approved with conditions administratively by a Duly Authorized Agent in June:

1. IW#25.05.02-7 Valley Road-septic replacement

2. IW#25.06.01-2 and 4 Commercial St.-excavation for remediation

3. IW#25.06.02-214 Alps Rd (aka 18 East Village Dr)-expansion of deck

Suzanne Botta, Acting Chairperson

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Raymond R Pantalena (21-00279)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated June 26, 2025, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Lynne L Pantalena, 3 Pine Tree Drive, Branford, CT 06405

Press Release from the Branford Land Trust

Photo courtesy Branford Land Trust

Parents and children are invited to Branford Land Trust's magical morning of fairy house construction on Saturday, July 12, registration required.

Vox Church Hosts Multi-State Serve Our City Day

responders, and organizing foster care closets.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Rhea Parillo, AKA Rhea Kamienski (25-00224)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated June 20, 2025, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

On June 7, Vox Church, a Connecticutbased multi-site Christian church, hosted its largest Serve Our City Day to date, mobilizing more than 800 volunteers across 12 cities in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

The annual day of service featured over 80 community sites, where volunteers worked on local projects ranging from packing meals and care bags to beautifying public spaces.

“Serve Our City Day is a day set aside in our church’s calendar with one focus — to be a blessing in our towns and cities in whatever way we can,” said Vox Church Outreach Director Bru Hickey. “We view the 86 different places we got to serve this year as unique opportunities to meet a need and lift a burden off a local organization.”

Volunteers served in towns and cities including Bridgeport, New Haven, Middletown, Hartford, Springfield, and Worcester. Projects included helping at local schools, packing summer care bags for first

“Today, the department was pleased to accept the appreciation shown by Vox Church with their summer care bags. THANK YOU!!!” the South Windsor Fire Department shared in a Facebook post following the event.

“We are thankful to all the organizations we are able to partner with and the work that they do each and every week to care for people in need in our communities,” Hickey said. “This is one of the ways we get to give back, say thank you, and show our support.”

Founded in 2011 in New Haven, Vox Church is a non-denominational Christian church with a mission to “see New England transformed from the least-churched region in the U.S. to the most spiritually vibrant place on Earth.” The church hosts weekly services in 12 cities across Connecticut and Massachusetts, including Branford, where it meets at 131 Commercial Parkway, Building 4.

For more information, visit Vox Church.org.

LEGAL NOTICE

NORTH BRANFORD ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

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

A. Appl. #2025-5, 7 Williams Road – requesting a variance to reduce the front property line setback to 25 feet where 50 feet is required, for expansion of existing front porch. Owner/Applicant: Nicholas M. Pisano

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

Steve Kenning, Chairman

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Elizabeth G. Barnes (25-00223)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated June 24, 2025, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Michael D. Golden c/o PETER ADLAI BERDON, BERDON YOUNG & M, 350 ORANGE STREET, 2ND FLOOR, NEW HAVEN, CT 06511

Amos F. Barnes c/o PETER ADLAI BERDON, BERDON YOUNG & M, 350 ORANGE STREET, 2ND FLOOR, NEW HAVEN, CT 06511

Jonathan A. Barnes c/o PETER ADLAI BERDON, BERDON YOUNG & M, 350 ORANGE STREET 2ND FLOOR. NEW HAVEN CT 06511

Denise Rapuano

c/o ELLEN C MARINO, ELLEN C MARINO, 596 MAIN STREET, WINSTED, CT 06098

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Sylvie Kunz (25-00233)

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Radim Kunz, 30 Angela Drive, Wallingford, CT 06492

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF BRANFORD BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT 06405

LEGAL NOTICE

The Branford Zoning Board of Appeals will meet Tuesday July 15, 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:

25/7-1 Pue Yong (Jane) (Applicant & Owner) (G07-000-002-00032 R4) 19 Milo Drive

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.5- 25 feet setback where 40 feet is required for a storage shed.

25/7-2 Tony Mortali (Applicant) Gregory Bozzi ( Owner) (F08-000-002-041.1 R4) 88 Pine Orchard Road

Var. Sec. 6.11.C To allow a structure on an interior lot to be located closer than 50 feet from a property line.

James Sette (Chairman)

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF NORTH BRANFORD OFFICE OF THE TAX COLLECTOR

Taxpayers of the Town of North Branford are hereby notified that the first installment of Real Estate, Personal Property, and Motor Vehicle taxes on the October 1, 2024 Grand List are due and payable on July 1, 2025. Taxes will be considered delinquent on August 2, 2025, and will be subject to interest at the rate of 1.5% per month or fraction thereof, from the due date of July 1, 2025, with a minimum interest charge of $2.00. Payments received with an August 1, 2025 postmark are considered on time. Payments may be made at the Tax Collector’s Office, North Branford Town Hall, 909 Foxon Rd. North Branford CT 06471. Hours are 8:30 – 4:30 M-F or mail to P.O. Box 349, North Branford, CT. 06471. You may also pay by debit/credit card or electronic check at www.northbranfordct.gov and clicking on the link Online Services. There is a fee for this service - $3.95 for a debit card - 2.5% per transaction for credit card and $2.00 for electronic check. If you do not receive your tax bill(s), please call the tax office at 203-484-6011. Failure to receive a tax bill does not invalidate the tax or interest as per State Statute 12-145.

Gerri Winnick, CCMC, Tax Collector

Dated at North Branford – June 26, 2025.

Press Release from Vox Church

The Whole Kitten Caboodle

between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Only applications for pairs will be considered.

Abby, Alex, Anthony, Christian, Mia, and Opie are 10-week-old sweethearts who are ready for new adventures in homes of their own. They were trapped with their mom in a condo complex, where she somehow took care of them with no food or shelter. These six siblings, three males and three females, are super friendly, playful, and affectionate. They exert a lot of energy chasing each other and playing with toys, and then cuddle up in a pile for a nap. They are guaranteed to fill your life with unconditional love and endless entertainment. For an appointment to meet the kittens, apply online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org or visit them at our Open House on Saturday, July 12,

Your Match At

Forgotten Felines holds an Open House every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. Call the volunteer line at 860-669-1347 or send an email to volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.

Photo by Lisa Nadeau

Story by Carol Andrecs

FundraiserforFelines

The Greater New Haven Cat Project (GNHCP) annual raffle fundraiser runs through Saturday, July 26. Each ticket costs $1 for a chance to win one of four gift card: $250 Visa, $200 Amazon, $100 Cabela, and $50 Chewy. The raffle drawing will be held at the GNHCP Center, 965 State Street, New Haven, on July 26 at 6 p.m. Winners need not be present. GNHCP is a nonprofit organization that is committed to addressing feline overpopulation through low-cost spay/neuter and public education. To purchase tickets, visit gnhcp.org/raffle. For more information, contact GNHCP at 203-782-2287 or rise@gnhcp.org.

PlanningtoGoAbroad?

The East Shore District Health Department, 14 Business Park Drive, Branford, offers help with all the required and recommended vaccines for travel abroad. For more information, call 203481-4233 and ask for the travel clinic office.

ProgramsOfferedatW&FLC

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

BereavementSupportGroup

The Women & Family Life Center, 96 Fair Street, Guilford, is hosting an eightsession bereavement support group from noon to 1:30 p.m. beginning Monday, Sept. 8. Registration is required. For more information or to register, contact 203458-6699 or programs@womenand familylife.org.

Dear Reader,

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the readers of Shore Publishing’s newspapers for your past contributions to our Voluntary Pay efforts. Your generosity has made a significant difference, and we are truly thankful for every donation.

Local journalism is a vital pillar of our communities, serving as the voice that shares the stories of our friends and neighbors, celebrates our successes, and addresses our challenges. Small businesses depend on local newspapers to connect with customers and promote their services. When local journalism thrives, so does our community and economy.

As the last independently owned newspaper in Connecticut, our mission has always been to provide local news, share meaningful stories, and elevate the voices within our community. Each week, you can count on our reporters for the latest coverage, including:

• Person of the Week Profiles

• Education and School News & Updates

• High School Sports & Athlete of the Week Profiles

• Local Politics & Government News

• Real Estate Transactions

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– Arts, Culture, Recipes & Local Events

• Letters to the Editor

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Sports

Ardito Most Decorated Athlete in North Branford High School History

By Kellyn Kolber

Special to The Sound

For most athletes, winning a conference or state championship is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For Lily Ardito, it was routine. As a multi-sport athlete, primarily participating in softball and field hockey, Lily has won eight Shoreline Conference championships and four state championships, making her the most decorated athlete in North Branford High School history. This past season, she was the Shoreline Conference Player of the Year in field hockey, and she received the Steve Lenzi Award as North Branford High School’s Most Outstanding Female Athlete. She’s demonstrated talent and grit, culminating in her commitment to play Division II field hockey at Lander University.

Lily began playing softball around age 4 or 5 and was quickly enamored. This was her main sport growing up, but she also tried her hand at soccer and karate. She even credits her karate coach, Tom Smith, for her early growth and love for sports.

“He’s the one that made me coachable,” she says. “He taught me to be dedicated and to always try my best.”

It wasn’t until 6th grade that Lily really started considering field hockey to add to her already packed sports resume. Even though she loved the sports she was already competing in, she wanted to branch out.

“I knew the high school team was pretty strong, so I told my dad that I wanted to try something new and play field hockey,” Lily says.

Though she tried the sport in middle school, it wasn’t until her freshman year that she got serious. An injury to her throwing shoulder during her 2021 travel softball season changed everything. Prior to this, Lily was set on playing softball in college, but this setback encouraged her to focus on field hockey, which ultimately became her passion. The

Sports

Person Week of the

captains who served her freshman year, Olivia Toto and Braeden Lebeau, also helped nurture her love for the sport.

“They were always pushing me to do my best,” Lily reflects. “They were great role models. You could just tell they loved the sport, and I wanted to be like them.”

Even after the duo graduated, their guidance remained. As the lone captain of her field hockey team, Lily often asked herself how her previous mentors would handle challenges.

Encouraged by her field hockey coaches, Babby Nuhn and Cheryl Canada, to play at the next level, Lily embraced her potential. Though she favored field hockey, she stayed committed to softball.

“I went through a little period of time when I thought about quitting softball, and field hockey was always on my mind,” Lily admits. “I realized that I didn’t want to quit softball, but I loved field hockey so much more because it just fit the person I am.”

Fortunately, Lily balanced both sports, becoming a reliable and compassionate leader who impacted both teams. As a captain, she valued genuine connection and authenticity over authority.

“I was never the kind of person to tell people what to do. I wasn’t going to be that bossy leader,” Lily says. “I wanted to lead by example, and if my teammates had a question or needed help with homework, I wanted them to be able to approach me.”

Specifically, Lily’s coaches saw her as a role model to the younger girls. According to Nuhn, Lily has volunteered at the field hockey program’s youth clinic since her freshman year and organized a

sister program with her teammates to encourage team bonding.

“Lily embraced the opportunity to be that leader, to organize everything, and to work with these younger players,” Nuhn says. “When Lily talked, they looked up to her. They listened.”

Despite all of the high school success in both sports, Lily’s journey wasn’t seamless. Besides injuries, she had to handle enormous pressure. Unlike most athletes who might play one or two high-stakes games in high school, Lily played many.

“She has probably done a season and a half worth of games just in playoff games in her career, which is amazing,” North Branford softball Head Coach Nick DeLizio says. “Combined with field hockey, she’s probably put in two extra seasons worth just because of how far she’s gone in the conference and state tournaments.”

All that experience taught Lily to handle pressure and adversity, fostering a mindset of endurance and tenacity. After a key playoff victory, DeLizio recalls telling the team to push hard for a few more days, aware the athletes were eager to kick off their summer break.

“She looks at me and goes, ‘I just want to win,’” DeLizio says. “It was something so small, but I’ll never forget it.”

Off the field, Lily’s achievements are equally impressive. She has maintained honors every semester and thrown herself into service and various leadership roles. At North Branford High School, she was a member of several student organizations, including the Student Union, Yearbook Club, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SAD), and Dream Team, where members attend and volunteer at elementary/middle school events.

“Everywhere I go now, I know a kid because of Dream Team, and it just feels so good,” says Lily. “Younger softball or field

hockey girls will recognize me and say ‘Oh my god, you’re my dream teamer!’”

As Lily prepares to go off to Lander University in the fall, she is both excited and nostalgic.

“I’m happy to step out into the world and meet new people, but I’m super sad to leave my sports teams,” she says. “Today, I went down to the track, and it just felt weird not being at conditioning. It felt weird not being with the girls.”

Meanwhile, Lily’s coaches agree that her determination and charisma will undoubtedly take her far in life. DeLizio, who teaches video production and journalism at North Branford

High School, has watched her progress and is excited to see what she accomplishes as a communications major.

“She always wants to be her best, so I see her flourishing in whatever she decides to do, especially in a career like that.” Nuhn echoes that sentiment and also has no doubt Lily will thrive at the next level, not only because of her undeniable talent, but also because of who she is as a person.

“She was never looking for accolades. It was never about the awards or recognition,” Nuhn says. “She’s just genuinely caring.”

Photo courtesy of Lily Ardito Lily Ardito experienced more conference and state championships than any other athlete in North Branford High School history, as she competed in both field hockey and softball.

Braves Still Dominating in Deep River Horseshoe League

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Players in the Deep River Horseshoe League were thankful for the gray skies and cooler temperatures in Week 10 instead of the heat wave of the previous three days. There were sprinkles midway through the evening for about 30 minutes, after which players were wishing for a little of the signs of summer.

The Dodgers climbed out of last place with a sweep of the Cubs. The Pirates outscored the Red Sox 314 -304 but lost 4-2. The Braves split with the Marlins to maintain their hold on first place. The average team score was 268 points, up 11 points from the previous week.

When Frank Rausch’s Braves met John Hutra’s Marlins, there were expectations of high scoring since it featured four of the top scorers in the league, and the Marlins were coming off of two 300+ point matches. When Rausch teams with Peter Furmonavicius, they average 248 points per match. This means the Marlins would get a big handicap in those two games. When Marlins’ Dennis Allen and Mike Beckwith played together, they had the scoring edge. Rausch outscored the Marlins in game one. In the two games with the large handicap, Rausch and Furmonavicius faced Hutra and Allen, and the teams split. Allen and Beckwith easily won their two games against Furmonavicius and Joe Machado. With the split, the Braves remain in first place. Rausch’s 142-point series was the second leading “A’ division score. Furmonavicius’s 106point series tied for the third leading “B” division score. Allen’s 115-point series was the second leading “B” division score, and Beckwith’s 91-point series was the second leading “C” division score. The Braves scored 311 points to the Marlins’ 286 points. This was the fourth time the Braves topped 300 points.

Cody Layton’s Cubs were coming off of a big win over the first place Braves, and they were hoping to take advantage of Jeremy Davis’s last place Dodgers. In game one, the Dodgers had eight ringers in the first five boxes, which was more than enough for

the win. Davis’s clean game and Ed Turner’s 26 points led to a double-digit win in game two, and they used their handicap to win the next two games. The Dodgers went on to win the last two games for the sweep, and they moved out of last place. Davis has stated each week of the season, “I am not concerned about being in last place, and the team will come around.” After the match, Layton said, “Teams need to be wary of the Dodgers – they could be the spoilers.” Turner had a season best 93-point series.

Another match in which high scores were the expectation, and it more than lived up to the hype, was when Skip Robinson’s Pirates faced Bill Beckwith’s Red Sox. However, it also featured the annual “Brothers Match”- Bill Beckwith vs. his younger brother Bob of the Pirates. All of the Pirates rank in the top five scorers within their respective divisions. In game one, Robinson and Bill Beckwith each scored 33 points, but it was Sox’s Gerry Hines’ 27 points that carried them to the win. In the two games, the brothers’ matchup against each other included Bill outscoring Bob 64-54, and each team won a game. The league’s top “C” scorer, Pirates’ Anthony Conkling, teamed with Bob Beckwith to score 63 points and overcome a 10-point handicap to win game three. The Sox used their handicap to win game four. Although Conkling’s 35-point game was a season best, his last game woes and quest for the century mark came up short again, as the Sox used their handicap to win the last game. The Red Sox won 4-2. The Pirates scored 314 points to the Red Sox’s 304 points. Although Bill outscored Bob 125118, Bob was the leading “B” division scorer. Hines’s 84-point series was a season’s best. For once, Cardinals’ Kris Toohey proved he is normal – he did not outscore the opponent, Chip Goodrich’s Reds, in the first game, and he only had one game over 40 points. Toohey started with three opens in the first game, but the Cardinals led going into the last box. A ringer by Reds’ John O’Brien plus their handicap gave the teams a tie –the Cards’ fifth of the season. The

teams split the next two games. Toohey’s 46 points, 14 ringers, and four doubles gave the Cardinals their only win for the night. Despite losing 3.5 – 2.5, the Cardinals remain in second place. Toohey’s 135-point series was the third highest “A” score.

Mark Goodale’s Mets have been on a roller coaster in the standings over the last four weeks – moving up one week and down the next. In part, Goodale has been struggling with the “turn,” and he has decided to go back to the “flip.” His ringer in the last box of game one gave the Mets a two-point win over Sheryl Serviss’s Tigers. The Mets went on to win the next three games, and Mets’ Mike Shashok’s 22 points and 31 points were the difference for two games. In game four down 12 points going into the last two boxes, Mets’ Leif Selander tossed two ringers, and Goodale had back-to-back doubles for a two-point win. In the last two games, Tigers’ Harvey Strausser had 30 points in each, leading to wins. The Mets won 42 and are now in a three-way tie for 10th place.

John Durinick’s Orioles did not tell Mike Zanelli Sr.’s Giants that they only win on even week games. Durinick started the match with two doubles and finished with a clean game for the Orioles’ first win. Durinick and Butch Carotenuto defeated Frank Jolly and Zanelli Sr. 48 –47 for their second win. Giants’ Gay Haney was the high scorer in game three with 15 points, but Jolly’s ringer in the last box secured the win. The Giants evened the match 2-2, as Zanelli Sr.’s 41 points led to a win. It was Carotenuto’s ringer in the last box plus the Orioles’ seven handicap points that gave the teams a tie. The Giants had four handicap points and held a one-point lead (with the handicap) going into the bottom of the last box. Carotenuto and Adam Fortier each got a point, as well. The Orioles won by one point, and their streak remains intact. They won 3.5 –2.5.

Joe Heery’s Rangers only had four open boxes in the first two games but also only had 11 ringers, while Tony Cutone’s Angels had 23 ringers which led

to the Angels winning the first two games. Rangers’ Andy Konefal’s season best 28 points, combined with Hunter Beckwith’s 32 points, led to a 20-point win in game three. Game four ended in a tie, as each team matched the score in the last two boxes. Game five also ended in a tie, as the Rangers held a one-point lead going into the last box, but the Angels scored 3-2 for the second tied game. The Rangers won the last game, and the teams split the match. The Rangers have moved into a tied for third place. Beckwith’s 106-point series tied for third best “B” division score, and Konefal’s personal best 90-point series was the third highest for the “C” division.

Mike Didomizio subbed for Rockies’ Damin Roberts, as they took on Todd Nuhn’s Yankees. Games one and four were scratch games, and the teams split. In the A/B games (two and five), the handicap favored the Yankees by seven points, and the teams split. In the two B/C games (three and six), there was one handicap

point favoring the Rockies, and the teams split. Vinny Jonynas’s double in the last box gave the Rockies the win, and in the last game, the Yankees took the lead at the outset for the win. The Yankees are tied for third place in the standings.

Mike Zanelli Jr.’s Diamondbacks jumped out to win the first four games by an average of 10 points against Brady Miller’s White Sox. Zanelli Jr. had two games of 40 and 45 points in those wins, and it looked as if the White Sox may suffer their fourth sweep. However, they rallied to win the last two games behind Miller’s 30 points and Brian Walsh’s 27 points. Zanelli Jr. was the top “A” scorer with a 148point series, and Walsh’s 97-point series was the top score for the “C” division. The Diamondbacks won 4-2, and the White Sox are now in last place.

For more information regarding the Deep River Horseshoe League, visit https//www.deep riverhorseshoes.com/contacts.

Photo courtesy of Joe Heery

Pictured are Bob and Bill Beckwith of the Deep River Horseshoe League.

Great Fishing, Smiling, Clammers, and Sky-Filled Fireworks

Why travel great lengths when what one travels to is easily available locally?

Vacation time is precious to those who work hard during the week, so getting away is understandable. Ideally, summertime travel entails heading to a beach resort area with plenty of sun, water, and an atmosphere with vacationers of similar interests - local cuisine, drink, and more shopping than can be packed for the return trip home.

All of that is great! Chalk up another memory, and, of course, travel time with stories of the asphalt jungle and interstate demolition derby. There is something to be said for an away vacation, but remember there are many of the same adventures that can be had around one of the best outdoor protected habitats the New England salt air has to offer.

Multiple tides offer a variety of activities. Coastal migrations present a wide range of fish to observe, catch, and eat if one prefers. From saltwater panfish to intriguing sharks, delicious bottom fish, and the blazing speeds of bonito and false albacore right up to popular striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish - the Sound offers them all and many more. Seining is always popular, while the wetlands can put a serious pile of steamed blue crabs on yesterday’s newspaper.

Grab your clamming basket, favorite rake, shellfish license, and measuring ring, and hit the beds at low tide, and that is just the beginning of putting together a family clam bake. There is so much that can be done with clams, oysters, and mussels. Add some corn and a few lobsters, and you go from roughing it to full bore classic recipes. Ring the bell and gather on the beach as the sun sets. What’s better than that?

Vacations are great, and getting away is fun and relaxing. It should be done to clear the air, so to speak. Nevertheless, there is so much to experience near our home turf when there is this precious body of water

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

Fishing report

so close and without the trials and tribulations that goes with traveling distances. So, fit in the summer experiences Long Island Sound and its tributaries offers. You’ll be glad you did!

On The Water

High pressure was in control and weakened before the July 4 holiday weekend, as a warm front approached and quickly lifted though the region. That was followed by a cold front before a weak high pressure controlled mid-week weather. Another cold front moved in before daytime air temperatures climbed from the 80s into the 90s with a mix of sun, clouds, rain, and a few thunderstorms. Long Island Sound experienced early morning patchy fog conditions, mostly light to moderate 5-10 knot southerly winds (at times gusty) and relatively calm seas, as water temperatures fluctuated from the mid-to high 60s.

Fourth of July holiday weekend welcomed a Sound full of fish. Many were of the expected variety and others traveling through, while some species drifted in on their migration up the warm Gulf Stream. As all of that was going on, there has been talk of more large dogfish and sand sharks being caught than normal for this early in the season. Although snout to tail lengths are not considered large compared to other sharks - like the great white in the thriller ‘Jaws’ that recently had its 50 year anniversary - nevertheless, shark catches in the Sound get attention.

The best time to re-live that kind of fishing adventure is to soak a hefty chunk of bait weighted on the bottom after the sun goes down. Of course, smooth and spiny dogfish can be caught mid-day. However, if

you are after the large bottom dweller variety of not only dogfish but also others, fish near shore after dark on a flood tide. It is also a good time hear your drag scream from the run of a striped bass. Juice up the offering by fishing a live eel!

Out on the reefs, hookups and releases remain fairly steady, as slot fish, below and many above, are on live and chunk baits, bucktails, plugs, swimmers, and definitely diamond jigs. Trolling, drifting, and jigging are interchanging, varying with tides, currents, and time of day. When played right, there ought to be dinner for the table and plenty of releases. Seeking out cooler water found in deep water and by the rips will up catches. There are some decent bluefish taking bait and lures, but diving gulls and blitzes have not gained momentum. Top water action is around, if you can find it. Dropping diamond jigs and trolling is a better bet. There is a good chance of picking up a weakfish while fishing a bucktail and squid. Look out for Bonito!

Catches of black sea bass in New York waters are really doing well, but sizes have been trending on the smaller side - keepers included. Reefs, sandwaves, and other rock-related bottom structures are holding fish. Setting anchor or drifting are options to produce hookups. However, anchoring on a reef that has a propensity to hold food, such as clams, crabs, small fish, squid, lobsters, barnacles, etc. is the optimum choice. Porgy fishing, both from shore and vessel, is well underway and getting better each passing day. Porgy Pounders are catching scrappy slabs with both natural bait and artificial scented baits - mostly using rigs. And now that blackfish is open in Connecticut waters, reefs, wrecks, and various bi-valve beds that provide food and shelter will find the three fish species just mentioned on them. They are their preferred structured habitat at the appropriate tide. There many other bottom fish feeding during various tides, so it is a great time to

Madison Hoop Dreams Basketball Camps

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Give your child the ultimate basketball experience this summer at Madison Hoop Dreams (MHD) - Connecticut’s most popular basketball day camp for over 20 years. MHD’s program is for players entering grades 3 to 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at H-K Middle School in Killingworth. The camp includes expert coaching and terrific guest speakers. Players learn the fundamentals, team-

work, sportsmanship, and leadership skills that last a lifetime. With three weeks of camp remaining (the weeks of July 14, July 21, and July 28), MHD hopes that everyone can join them for at least one week. Please go to www.madisonhoop dreams.com for more information and to register. If you have any questions, please call or text Coach Bill Barker at 203-494-6905, or email him at wab6933@ gmail.com.

take out your nautical chart and plan a family fishing trip. Note the coordinates of a few local spots that meet the criteria, bait up, and head out around an hour or so ahead of a flipping tide. Soft baits like seaworms, squid, or clams will usually hook you up. Remember that the shoreline also has great blue crabbing in the estuaries, excellent seining along the beaches, and of course, terrific clam beds.

Lake, pond, and river fishing continues to produce above-average catches with the exception of hot mid-day air temperatures. Sunfish may be the exception and fish able to settle in deep cool parts of the water column. Generally, low light conditions are best. Rainbow, brown, and brook trout are still being caught using live and scented baits, hard/soft lures, and flies. Largemouth bass have been taking topwaters, soft plastics, jerk, and spinner baits. Pickerel, perch, black crappie, catfish, bullheads, carp, etc. are all reacting to summer - thumbs up!

Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media. For all things fishy, including the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2025 licenses/permits, and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call 203-245-8665 for updated summer hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer, and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better.

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

July 10 to July 16

Fun By The Numbers

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!

The final stop on Liz's bike ride, Colmar’s Champs de Mars Park is known for its tree-lined paths, historic fountains, and peaceful ambiance.

Travel with Me – Part II: Colmar, France

By Liz Egan

Special to Living

The best part of traveling is being surprised. When I choose to be open to the new adventures unfolding before me, I experience them in ways I could never have imagined. This was the story of the next stop in my travels with Con Brio Choral Society’s European Performance Tour - Colmar, France.

Our home base in Colmar was The James Boutique Hotel. Family-owned and operated with outstanding service, it is situated just a few blocks from the Old Town, making the entire visit walkable. Colmar is located in the Alsace Region of France, known for its many wineries. Like the neighboring villages, Colmar is small, its history is rich, and its people are welcoming. The hotel boasts that all of its food, products, and equipment are locally sourced.

Upon arrival in the late afternoon, my friend Betsy and I headed right out to the local market next door and were delighted to find an amazing and affordable array of fresh vegetables, breads, cheeses, as well as a host of sundries. I purchased a bag of fresh salad greens, shredded carrots, some local cave-aged Roquefort, and fresh Caesar dressing. We split a package of paper plates, and I purchased several packages of compostable utensils. Dinner for the next three nights was set. Yoghurts from local dairies, fresh and

Colorful half-timbered buildings and flowerlined canals give Colmar’s Little Venice its storybook charm—and served as inspiration for Belle’s village in Beauty and the Beast.

dried fruits, homemade granolas, fresh breads, hot eggs, sausages, bacon, as well as an assortment of meats and cheeses, eclipsed by the amazing coffee, began each day’s feast. I had learned at our previous stop in Germany that eating too much in

Shuttered windows, cobblestone streets, and overflowing flower boxes showcase Colmar’s timeless European charm at every turn.

the morning had other consequences, so I started each day with a local yoghurt, fresh fruit, topped with homemade granola. I also dropped a fresh egg in the hot water bath and took the timer to my table. On a separate plate, I would take a slice of

hearty fresh bread with some meat and cheese. With this, I would make a small sandwich for later in the day.

We gathered outside for a walking tour of Colmar with our funny, friendly local guide. As we passed through each of the Old Town sites, I was transported, as I learned that this fairy tale village were the basis for Belle’s village in Beauty and the Beast. One vantage point in the area known as Little Venice was a scene from a puzzle that one of the members of the group exclaimed she had just completed. I too had done the same puzzle and later went back to take the photo. The flower boxes on many of the buildings were captivating.

When Americans think “old,” we think decades. When Europeans think “old,” they think about centuries. Churches played a huge part in the history of every European town, and Colmar was no exception. The Gothic-style Église SaintMartin, St. Martin Church, is a Roman Catholic church built between 1234 and 1365. Like many churches, it suffered much damage and loss during the French Revolution as well as the Protestant Reformation. In 1462, the municipal painter Casper Isenmann received a commission to paint a set of wood panels dedicated to the Life of Jesus Christ. In 1720, the altar was dismantled, and Isenmann’s paintings were dispersed. Seven surviving

See Travel with Me page 22

Photo by Liz Egan

Miles of bike paths wind through vineyards and picturesque villages surrounding Colmar, offering an unforgettable way to explore the Alsace region.

Photo by Liz Egan

Travel with Me – Part II: Colmar, France

Continued from page 21

panels are now housed in the Unterlinden Museum, one of the highlights of my visit to Colmar. Meaning ‘under the lime trees’, this sizable world-class museum originally housed a convent built in 1232. The Dominican nuns were ousted during the French Revolution, and the convent closed in 1792. The buildings were used as military barracks and left abandoned in disrepair for years. In 1849, the buildings were saved, and the renovated structure by Herzog de Meuron opened its doors as a museum in 1853. I was overcome by several items at the museum and will be inspired for years to come. The museum houses the famous Isenheim altarpieces. Displayed in the renovated chapel, with their rich history explicated in the audio tour, was very powerful. At the opposite end of the museum was a fabulous collection of modern art. One piece in particular was a tapestry of Picasso’s La Guernica. Picasso facilitated the commission from Nelson Rockefeller for the Aubusson weavers Réné and Jacqueline de la Baume Dürrbach. Jacqueline had adapted over 30 of Picasso’s works into tapestries. I was moved to tears as I came to learn that only three tapestries of La Guernica exist. The Rockefeller commission, now housed at the U.N. Security Council Room in New York City, another in Japan, and the other was before me in the Unterlinden Museum. I took pictures of much of the artwork that I would later research.

Colmar is the birthplace and home to the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi. Inaugurated in 1922, it preserves a collection of his sculptures, paintings, drawings, photographs of sketches and models of Liberty Enlightening the World, commonly known as our Statue of Liberty. Engineered by the architect Eiffel, it was fascinating to see the models and pictures of its development, construction, and installation. The museum also houses a collection of objects referring to the presence of a Jewish community in Alsace that has been well established for centuries.

My husband, Paul, and I loved to explore on bicycles and have had many travel adventures on bikes. While in Colmar, the group was scheduled for a morning tour of area wineries with tastings at each. I skipped this tour and rented a bicycle to follow a 20-mile bike route through the same region. Colmar, like many other European cities, is very bike-friendly with identified bike lanes and directional systems. Ever since Paul passed away, whenever I am lost or frustrated, I find a feather. These feathers let me know he continues to watch over me and not to fear. This trip was no different. Just leaving the town for the countryside was a challenge as I got used to the GPS signals. I found three feathers during my ride.

The feeling of biking through the vineyard-laden countryside on this beautiful day was amazing. There is no better way to see the world than on a bike. Having traveled for over an hour, I noticed that the battery of my phone was about to go out. I tried to connect the external battery I brought along, but to no avail. About 12 miles into the ride, I feared that I would be lost – too far to turn back and not enough battery to complete the route. After finding a feather, I received the help of a local 15-year-old at a community center and was back on track. I rode into the beautiful town of Eguisheim, where the Vosges Mountains meet the Upper Rhine Plain. I sat and enjoyed

Cheese. The crust was easy to make, and it was amazing. I will definitely be making this again and again. Con Brio gave an uplifting concert at the Église Saint Matthieu with a local chamber choir. In all its performances, Con Brio has opportunities for the audience to sing along, which I enjoy heartily. My role on the trip was as a “clapper,” and I was proud to support the singers and initiate a well-deserved standing ovation.

Each day of the trip was filled with many adventures. Colmar was definitely a highlight for me. Au Revoir! Goodbye for now!

A specialty of the Alsace region of France, flamee or flammekueche means cooked over a fire. Easy to make and oh, so delicious, this can be made and served as an appetizer. Preheat the sheet pan for 3 minutes to ensure a crispier crust. This recipe is a combination and a modification of several recipes I read online in order to achieve what I had eaten in France.

Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.

INGREDIENTS

1 onion ( I used a sweet Vidalia onion)

5 oz. Crème Fraiche

Sprinkle of nutmeg

½ c. Emmental Cheese, shredded

¼ c. Munster cheese, shredded

3 slices bacon, thinly sliced crosswise into lardons

(option to replace with pancetta or leave out entirely)

my lunch in the gorgeous town square.

Like Colmar, Eguisheim is filled with specialty shops. As I was biking out a side street, I passed a shop filled with caramels and doubled back. With only 7 euros in my pocket, the owner weighed and adjusted a bag of traditional homemade caramels that were the most delicious I had ever eaten. As I biked the hilly final section of my route, I took a shortcut back, ending in Champ de Mars Park, a beloved green space located in the heart of Colmar, nestled between the city’s charming historic district and the Ill River. Established in the 19th century, the park is known for its well-manicured gardens, winding paths, and a serene pond that reflects the surrounding buildings and lush foliage. Its iconic sculpture and fountains were a grand finale to my ride.

After burning many, many calories on the ride, I decided that this was the evening to try the Tarte Flambée, a specialty of Colmar. Tarte flambée, also known as flammekueche, is a savory dish from the Alsace region of France. Mine was purchased at Le Flamm’s, a recommendation of the Bike Shop. It was made with a thin layer of unleavened bread dough topped with crème, onions, lardons (bacon), with local Munster and Emmental cheeses. It is traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven and resembles a pizza, but is distinct in its ingredients and preparation. Making it at home in my oven was a lot easier than I expected. For my at-home version, I went to Fromage Cheese Shop in Old Saybrook and purchased crème fraiche, Emmental, and a Munster-like Parrano

CRUST

2 cups all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

2/3 cup room temperature water

Combine the first three ingredients in a mixer. Slowly add the water until fully combined and the dough pulls away from the bowl. Turn out onto a floured surface and form into a ball. Cover with plastic wrap while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Sauté thinly sliced onions in a tablespoon of melted butter over medium heat until translucent and lightly browned. Set aside. In a small bowl, mix the crème fraiche with the nutmeg until creamy smooth. Place the sheet pan in oven to heat for 2 minutes. Place the dough on a floured surface and roll out as thin as possible without having it tear. Transfer to the warmed parchment-lined sheet pan. Smear the crème fraiche over the surface to the edges with a spatula. Add the shredded cheese and the onions. Top with the bacon pieces. Bake for 20 minutes, turning the pan halfway through. The crust will be browned, and the top sizzling. Remove from oven. Let sit for a minute. Cut into squares. Larger for dinner size portions, smaller for appetizer portions. After you have done this a few times, you will realize that you can substitute almost any topping. Be mindful that too many toppings can make the crust soggy.

Tarte Flambée

Photo by Liz Egan

A scenic 20-mile solo ride led Liz to the charming town of Eguisheim, where she paused in the town square for a wellearned lunch.

Summer Shows, Extra Performances, and Shows to Travel For

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

Comedy or Tragedy?

The Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival offers you the option of a comedy, , or a tragedy, . The two plays will run in rotation through Sunday, Aug. 3, on the campus of the University of St. Joseph in West Hartford. Performances are outdoors, but the production moves inside the Hoffman Auditorium in case of inclement weather. Before each show is pre-show entertainment. Patrons are welcome to bring food and beverages; food trucks will also be present at select performances. For tickets, visit CapitalClassics.org.

Will It Rain on Stage?

Twelfth Night King Lear Rain

Singin’ in the

is a classic Hollywood musical that was turned into a moderately successful Broadway musical. It’s the summer production at Playhouses on Park in West Hartford. As the movies begin talking and singing, some stars find that their voices

Aisle ON THE

don’t fit their characters. In this case, leading lady Linda Lamont may be out of a job.

The Playhouse production, which runs from Wednesday, July 16, through Sunday, Aug. 17, is a scaled-down show but will feature all the great songs, from the title song to “Good Morning,” “Make ‘Em Laugh,” and others. For tickets, visit PlayhouseOnPark.org

Added Performances

: Goodspeed’s current show, , has proven to be so popular that the theater has added eight additional performances. The show will not run through Sunday, Aug. 24. If you want to nab seats for one of the extra performances, visit Goodspeed.org.

Lerner & Loewe Classic All Shook Up Camelot

: Take a drive up to the Berkshires and catch a performance of at Barrington Stage Company in Pittsfield. The production, which runs through Sunday, July 19, is

based on the critically acclaimed Washington, D.C. production directed by Alan Paul. Ken Wulf Clarke and Ali Ewoldt as King Arthur and Guenevere. For tickets, visit BarringtonStageCo.org.

Hartford Stage Tickets

: Tickets for individual performances are now on sale at HartfordStage.org. In addition, you can purchase a FlexPass, which offers discounts on shows. You can select the shows you want to see and the specific performances.

Going to Maine?

The Masked Man Returns

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

HURSDAY, JULY 10

Robert Jawitz: Animal Portraiture

: 10:30 a.m. to noon. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. The exhibit runs through Saturday, Aug. 30. For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Opening Reception for Red Cross Blood Drive

: 12:45 to 6:15 p.m. St. Mary Church, 731 Main. St., Branford. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

If you are headed “down East” this summer, check out the venerable Ogunquit Playhouse in Ogunquit. This traditional summer theater produces excellent work. , with multiple Broadway veterans, is playing through Sunday, July 19. Following that is , based on the play/movie and the film musical of the same name. It features songs by Cole Porter and runs from Thursday, July 24, through Sunday, Aug. 23. For tickets, visit OgunquitPlayhouse.org

A Loss Guys and Dolls

High Society The Philadelphia Story

: Connecticut theatergoers will remember the outstanding performances by Harris Yulin at Long Wharf, the Yale Rep, and Hartford Stage. He was one of the three cast members who premiered

Summer Reading Event: Nature Walk with Wood Cookies

: 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features a walk on the trolley trail followed by time to decorate wood cookies. Free. For info or to register, call the library at 203-4888702 or visit wwml.org/events.

Concert Series at Jacobs Beach

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Jacobs Beach, Seaside Ave., Guilford. Music by Moto. Sponsored by Guilford Parks and Recreation. For info, call 203-4538068 or click on the link for the spring-summer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.

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

Author Event: Megan Abbott Branford Jazz on the Green 2025 El Dorado Drive

: 6:30 p.m. Branford Town Green. Music by Rebecca Jade. Free. No dogs. No alcoholic beverages. Presented by the Town of Branford and the Branford Parks & Recreation Department. For info, visit branfordjazz.com.

A Lesson from Aloes Phantom of the Opera Masquerade

Athol Fugard’s at the Yale Rep, and more recently at Hartford Stage. Yulin died on June 10 at 88. : A clever PR campaign has hinted that a new production of will arrive in NYC this summer. Now it’s official. The immersive revival, renamed , will begin previews on Thursday, July 31. The press material says the production brings audiences inside and closer than ever. Among those in the cast are Hugh Panaro (who played the Phantom for over 2000 performances), Kaley Ann Voorhees (who played Christine), and Jeremy Stolle, who also played the Phantom. It is scheduled to run for six weeks.

NYC Notes

Good Night, and Good Luck

: The CNN broadcast of reached over 7 million viewers throughout the U.S. and internationally.

Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.

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

Calendar for the Week of July 10, 2025

Prophet Song

Willoughby Book Talk: by Paul Lynch

7 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Led by library staff member Rabia Ali. Open to all. For info or to register, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.

Outdoor Summer Concert Series

: 7 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library Patio, 67 Park St. Music by Java Groove. Seats are available but may be limited. Bring your own chairs. In the event of rain, the concert will be moved to the meeting room. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

2025 Grassy Strip Music Series

: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Music by Dave Matthews Tribute Band. Free and open to the public. The show starts with the Pledge of Allegiance; music begins at 7:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for sale on the lawn. Bring chairs and blankets. For info, visit madisonbeachhotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings.

See page 24

Continued from page 23

FRIDAY, JULY 11

Red Cross Blood Drive

: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. East Creek Landing, 390 S. Union St., Guilford. For info or to make an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

Summer in New England

Opening Reception for and Pastel Demonstration

: 4 to 8 p.m. Susan Powell Fine Art, 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison. The exhibit runs through Sunday, Sept. 28. The event includes a pastel demonstration by artist Jeanne Rosier Smith from 4 to 5 p.m. Hors d'oeuvres and wine will be served in the gallery garden. Bring a small lawn chair. For info, call 203318-0616 or visit susanpowellfineart.com.

Taylor Swift Cooking and Karaoke Class

: 6 to 8 p.m. The Carriage House at the Women and Family Life Center, 96 Fair St., Guilford. Students will make gnocchi carbonara and friendship bracelet cupcakes. Cost: $40, includes all ingredients and materials. Open to ages 7 and up. Presented by Mary’s Culinary Classes. For info, contact 203-464-8447 or marysculinaryclassesllc@gmail.com, or visit marysculinaryclassesllc.com.

snacks. No dogs. No restroom facilities on-site. Sponsored by the Branford Land Trust. Rain date: Sunday, June 13. To register (required), visit tinyurl.com/BLTfairy houses. For info, visit branfordlandtrust.org.

Introduction to Sourdough: The Big Rise

: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Participants will get fresh, homemade sourdough bread for hands-on learning. Presented by Wild Rise Productions. For info or to register (required), call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Part of the Legacy Theatre 2025 Family Series. Tickets: $25. Service fees apply. For info or tickets, contact the Legacy Theatre at 203315-1901 or Info@LegacyTheatreCT.org, or visit legacytheatrect.org.

: 11 a.m. Stony Creek Beach. Features a parade of boats and watercraft receiving a blessing from local clergy, live music from the Stony Creek Fife and Drum Corps, and more. Sponsored by Stony Creek Church, Thimble Island Sailing Club, and The Stony Creek Association. For info, contact the Stony Creek Church at 203-488-7827 or office@stonycreekchurchct.org.

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

Diverse Voices

: 2 to 4 p.m. City Gallery, 994 State St., New Haven. The exhibit runs through Sunday, July 27. For info, email info@citygallery.org or visit city-gallery.org. : 4 to

Sunday Broadway Concert Series with John McDaniel and Nicholas Rodriguez Opening Reception for Jammin' by the Shore: Mid-Summer Beach Party

7 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Music by Caribbean Vibes Steel Drum Band. Free admission. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the outdoor beach bar. Outside food/beverages are not permitted. For info, visit madisonbeachhotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings.

Summer Sounds: Concerts on the Green Series

: 4 to

7 p.m. Guilford Town Green. Music by the Community Band. Sponsored by Guilford Parks and Recreation. For info, call 203-453-8068 or click on the link for the springsummer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.

GreenStage Guilford: e

Every Good Story Ends with On

6 to 9 p.m. The Marketplace at Guilford Food Center, 77 Whitfield St., and the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, 11 Water St., Guilford. Features a pre-show reception at the Marketplace with hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, and a silent auction at 6 p.m. followed by a one-man show presented by theater artist Martin Dockery at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio at 8 p.m. Tickets: performance only, $30 for adults and $20 for students; pre-show reception and performance, $50. Proceeds benefit GreenStage Guilford Live Arts events. For info or tickets, visit greenstageguilford.org.

Friday Night Modern Film

: 7 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Free. Light refreshments provided by the Friends of the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library. No registration needed. For info, including the movie title, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.

Dialogues: Composers Abroad

: 8 p.m. Battell Chapel, 400 College St., New Haven. Part of the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival-Yale School of Music. Features a program of European composers who influenced American music in various ways, both through their musical works and as pedagogues. Ticket cost varies. A free pre-concert conversation with professors from the Yale School of Music takes place at 7 p.m. For info or tickets, visit music.yale.edu/concerts-events-norfolk.

SATURDAY, JULY 12

Build Your Own Natural Fairy House

: 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Van Wie Woods, Branford. Park by the pond next to the trail kiosk near 100 Red Hill Rd., Branford. Led by Rachel Obbard, a professor in the writing program at Dartmouth College and fairy house construction at Cobb Hill Cohousing in Vermont. For ages 5 to 9 and their parents/guardians. Limited to 12 children. Bring water and

: 11 a.m.

to 1 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Various jigsaw puzzles will be available to work on as a group or individually. Registration is not needed. For info, visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For ages 18 and over. Participants will use die cuts, embossing folders, and stamps to make three Father’s Day cards. All materials provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

: 6 to 10 p.m. Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. Incudes live music, inflatables, and food trucks. Tickets at the gate are $20 residents/$40 non-residents. Rain date: Sunday, July 13. For info, call the Guilford Parks and Recreation at 203-4538068 or click on the link for the spring-summer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.

: 8 p.m. Battell Chapel, 400 College St., New Haven. Part of the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival-Yale School of Music. Ticket cost varies. A free pre-concert conversation between festival director Melvin Chen and festival artists takes place at 7 p.m. For info or tickets, visit music.yale.edu/concerts-events-norfolk or brentanoquartet.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 13

Quinnetukut: Stories of Survival

: 2 p.m. Pardee-Morris House, 325 Lighthouse Rd., New Haven. Presented by Darlene Kascak, educator, storyteller, and member of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation. Free admission. Rain date: Sunday, Aug. 24. For info or to register (required), visit newhavenmuseum.org.

2025 Summer Concert Series

: 6 to 8 p.m. Madison Town Green. Music by The Kerry Boys. Free. Bring lawn chairs and a picnic. No alcohol. Sponsored by Madison Beach and Recreation. For info, visit madisonct.org/710/Summer-Concerts.

MONDAY, JULY 14

Water Art

: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For children in grades 1 to 5. Presented by the Regional Water Authority. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Musical Monday

: 6 to 8 p.m. Behind the Branford Town Hall, 1019 Main St. Music by Blue Rhythm Band. Part of the Musical Mondays series through Aug. 25. Sponsored by the Branford Parks and Recreation. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.

Geology Course

: 7 to 8 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Presented by the New Haven Mineral Club. Part of a weekly geology course through August. Features a presentation developed by John Renton, a professor from the University of West Virginia, and the Great Courses DVD series. Covers earth’s formation, plate tectonics, and more. No registration needed. For info, call 203-530-4554 or 203-484-0873.

TUESDAY, JULY 15

Red Cross Blood Drive

: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. East Creek Landing, 390 S. Union St., Guilford. For info or to make an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

The Joke Show

Traditional Blessing of the Fleet

Piece by Piece: A Community Puzzling Group

Creative Crafts with Jesse: Father’s Day Card

Guilford Community Fireworks

Concert by the Brentano Quartet

Legacy Theatre Serves Up a Sondheim Classic with a Hometown Cast

The Legacy Theatre will serve up suspense, song, and a touch of dark humor when it brings Stephen Sondheim’s to the Branford stage from Aug. 7 to 24.

Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

The award-winning musical thriller, which has captivated audiences worldwide, will be presented in Legacy’s intimate Stony Creek venue as part of its fifth anniversary season. The production is directed by Legacy Associate Artistic Director Colin Sheehan, who calls the musical “a masterpiece” and a personal favorite.

“ has always held a special place in my heart,” Sheehan says. “To bring this show to life in such a unique setting, with an exceptional cast and crew, is very special.”

Leading the cast is Karl Gasteyer as Sweeney Todd and Stephanie Stiefel Williams as Mrs. Lovett. The production has a strong local connection—Williams is a graduate of Hamden Hall, and Gasteyer curSweeney

Continued from page 24

as Anthony, and Amron Salgado as Pirelli. Ensemble members are Nate Bloom, Madeline Olexy, Bella Pacheco Rarick, Christine Voytko, and John-Michael Whitney.

The creative team includes Jamie Burnett (set and lighting design), Mark Ceppetelli (music director), Adam Jackson (sound design), T. Rick Jones (equity stage manager in residence), Nora Longway (assistant stage manager), and Paola Pacheco Rarick (choreographer).

Tickets are available at www.LegacyTheatreCT.org or by calling the box office at 203-3151901.

in Sweeney Todd.

rently teaches in the school’s arts department.

Broadway veteran Eric Santagata joins the cast as the Judge. A Branford native, Santagata returns to Legacy after several concert appearances. He also has a personal link to the show’s setting—his grandfather once oper-

ated a barbershop on the very grounds where Legacy Theatre now stands.

The musical tells the tale of an unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th-century London to seek revenge, forming a gruesome partnership with pie-shop owner Mrs. Lovett. The show fea-

Food Explorers: Strawberry Lemonade Pies

tures some of Sondheim’s most haunting and memorable music, and has won eight Tony Awards including Best Musical.

The cast also includes Thomas Beebe as the Beadle, Ava Broneer as Johanna, Brayden Esler as Toby, Sarah Anne Hughes as the Beggar Woman, Charles Romano

The Legacy Theatre is located at 128 Thimble Islands Road in the Stony Creek section of Branford, just minutes from I-95 and steps from Long Island Sound. Fully renovated and reopened in 2021, Legacy has quickly become a cultural hub along the Connecticut shoreline. The theater’s historic building once hosted performances by Orson Welles and, in 2024, a production directed by Julie Andrews.

Summer Reading Event: Pop Up Art Studio Presents Needle Felting

: 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Free. For info or to register, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.

Author Event: Silvia Moreno-Garcia

The Bewitching

: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Book: . Cost: $33, includes admission for one attendee and a copy of the book. Sponsored by R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16

Judy Pancoast's Box of Crayons Concert

: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features original songs about things in a coloring book. For info or to register (required), call 203315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Baobab: Learning and Teaching by Making Family History Books

: 12:30 p.m. New Haven Museum (NHM) 114 Whitney Ave. Presented by former NHM intern and 2025 Yale University graduate KaLa Keaton. For info, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a no-bake treat. The recipe is nutfree and vegetarian but may contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. For grades 2 to 5. Sponsored by the Branford Community Foundation. For info or to register (required), visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Marbled Shells

: 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For ages 5 to 12. Participants will use shaving cream and food coloring to create marbled shells. Dress for a mess. Artist aprons will be available. For info or to register (required), call 203-2457365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Cash Budgeting

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Southern Connecticut State University School of Business, 10 Wintergreen Ave., New Haven. Second in a four-session course called "Managing Money in Your Business: Financial Essentials." Hosted by the Connecticut Small Business Development Center. For info or to register (required), email Amanda Tronchin at aet11001@uconn.edu or visit ctsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events.

Shake, Rattle and Roll: Way Back Wednesdays

: 6 to

8 p.m. Branford Town Green. Features music from the 50s and 60s by DJ Dennis Nardella and a car show on Town Hall Drive. Runs through Wednesday, July 30. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.

23rd Annual Night Out to Benefit the Kids

: 6 to 10 p.m.

Owenego Inn, 40 Linden Ave., Branford. Hosted by Camp Rising Sun. Features live music from Vivid and the School of Rock House Band, dinner, a silent auction, raffle, and children’s games. Tickets: $25 for adults ($35 at the door), $10 for children. Services fees apply. Proceeds benefit Camp Rising Sun, a free summer camp for children ages 5 to 17 who have been diagnosed with cancer, as well as their siblings. For tickets, visit camprisingsun.com. For info, call 203-481-7277.

Make a Resin Beach Coaster

: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Materials provided but participants can bring sand from a beach. Limited spots. Individuals who have been to a previous resin coaster class are requested to let others register. For info or to register (required), call 203-3156020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16 THROUGH SATURDAY, JULY 19

Annual Madison Carnival

: 6 to 10 p.m. Academy Field, Academy St., Madison. Sponsored by the Madison Rotary Club. Features carnival games, rides, local food trucks, and more. Proceeds benefit local charitable initiatives and scholarships for students in the Madison community. For info, visit MadisonCTRotary.com.

Sweeney Todd

Photo courtesy of The Legacy Theatre

Stephanie Stiefel Williams stars as Mrs. Lovett in Legacy Theatre’s upcoming production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, running Aug. 7 to 24 in Branford.

Photo courtesy of The Legacy Theatre

Photo courtesy of The Legacy Theatre Karl Gasteyer, faculty member at Hamden Hall, takes on the title role in Sweeney Todd at Legacy Theatre.

Eric Santagata, Broadway actor and Branford native, returns to Legacy Theatre to play the Judge

Real estate

Valley Courier

A Home Steeped in History

175 North Cove Road, Old Saybrook Year Built: Sq. Feet: Acres: Style: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Price:

The Sound

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Staff Report

Every home tells a story, and the admired 1704 Black Horse Tavern in historic North Cove is no exception. Located at the water’s edge, this stunning private residence offers expansive water views and is rich in both local history and architectural detail. Meticulously curated to perfection, the quality of craftsmanship is evident throughout.

A warm and welcoming entry leads to elegant, well-proportioned rooms, ideal for entertaining. The formal living room and dining room, each with its own fireplace, offer the perfect balance of relaxed and refined.

The chef’s kitchen with a casual dining area centered around the fireplace is perfect for everyday gatherings. The sunroom, with floor-to-ceiling windows, allows interior spaces to blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.

The first-floor primary suite serves as your own private sanctuary. The upper level features a second primary suite and two guest bedrooms, where every detail has been carefully considered.

Woven into this magical landscape is a lovely blue stone terrace, an in-ground pool, and an enchanting pool house, surrounded by colorful hydrangeas and stately trees that adorn the property.

Recognized as a significant property by the National Register of Historic Homes, the Black Horse Tavern stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of North Cove. Whether you wish to set sail from your own private dock, unwind by the pool, or savor the serenity of the cove, schedule your private showing today and embark on the journey of a lifetime.

This home is being offered for sale by Coldwell Banker Realty for $3,995,000. The listing is co-listed by Kyle Hinding and Peg Mitchel. For more information or a showing, contact Hinding at 860-857-4219 or Mitchel at 860-581-8247.

The sunroom, with floor-to-ceiling windows, allows interior spaces to blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.

Located at the water's edge, this stunning private residence offers expansive water views and is rich in both local history and architectural detail.

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

: Mary H. Lewis to Kathryn H. Lewis and Marion J. Decarlo, $175,000 on June 18 : Allen and Arlene Ciociola to Pyramid Properties LLC, $800,000 on June 18 : Geoffrey Yasevac to Ryan M. Loschiavo, $360,000 on June 16 : Candace and Jordan Bognar to Christina A. Luna, $335,000 on June 18 : Joy Ft and John D. Joy to Robert Keller and Anthony Solorzano, $750,000 on June 17

: Bianca B. Hunt and Ronald A. Fisher to Michele L. Hull, $470,000 on June 18

NORTH BRANFORD

Nancy Hunt 203.927.7105 nancy.hunt@cbrealty.com 1024 Main Street, Branford My job is

relationships.

Edward J. Peterson and Christina M. Mazzara to Kathleen Scheffler and Binyam M. Ashenafi, $392,000 on June 16

Cosey Beach Avenue Unit 121-1

Estate of Douglas Macdonald and David Macdonald to Barbara Palmerino, $289,000 on June 17

55 Gay Street Unit 3

: Robert E. Smith to Christina Tescione, $230,000 on June 16

1107 North High Street

: Teresa

Martino and Us Bank TNa to Gabor Datz, $244,300 on June 16

12 Roses Farm Road

: Phillip and Whitney Baxter to Andrew J. and Jessica T. Schmidt, $435,000 on June 20

330 Short Beach Road Unit F7

Marjorie Zuniga to Gaelen Rhoads, $269,500 on June 16

108 Stevens Street

: Jean Cipollini to Moira K. Manko, $325,000 on June 20

91 Stevens Street

: Stephen A. Boughton to Morgan and Marisa A. Russo, $231,076 on June 20

230 Thompson Street Unit 301

Danielle Spector to Isaura Delossantos, $316,000 on June 20

43 Victor Street

: 216 Ventures LLC to Dieulifaite Jeudi, $370,000 on June 16

Vineyard Road

: Nicholas Gabrielli

Irt and Patricia A. Gabrielli to Donna J. Pellegrino, $345,000 on June 17

74 Willow Road

: Linda L. Andree to Danielle Spector, $420,000 on June 20

GUILFORD

: Northeast Hmbuyers Court LLC to Arthur P. Ziegler, $380,000 on June 16 : Sean C. and Jessica M. Townsend to Matthew D. Madar and Katherine T. Yale, $575,000 on June 20

94 Cooks Lane

: Elizabeth Ciccone to Michael Kavgaci, $1,000,000 on June 20

18 Fair Street Unit 7

: Michael J. Kneeland and Roxzene Hunter to Jjddkd T and John J. Dropick, $1,150,000 on June 18

35 Lovers Lane

197 Meadow Hills Drive

: Jennifer Massaro to Todd Raskin, $128,188 on June 17 : Lars G. and Elizabeth M. Beholz to Julie Wessinger, $589,000 on June 17

59 Mill Road

: Marissa Teodosio to Samuel M. and Tessa H. Kramer, $430,000 on June 17 : Michael

1 Northview Drive

Kavgaci to Kyle J. Kinard and Beth

Napoli, $649,900 on June 20

54 Old Quarry Road

: Wesley D. Cain to Katherine H Campbell RET and Katherine H. Campbell, $610,000 on June 18

65 Sachems Head Road

: Sean J. and Leah A. Portley to Maryjane Anderson and Samuel Dienel, $950,000 on June 17

16 Sunset Creek Road

: Matthew and Adeline Shaughnessy to Megan Preneta, $1,125,000 on June 20

12 Sunset Ridge Drive

: Lisa A.

Samuels to Jing Hughes, $1,210,000 on June 20

150 Whitethorn Drive

: Joan K. Ames to Charles G. and Janet H. Hilborn, $760,000 on June 20

KILLINGWORTH

206 Old Deep River Turnpike

Alexander J. Twarowski to Leo M. Slight, $300,000 on June 20

10 River Road

: John Catalano to John Catalano Irt and Adam C. Catalano, $100,000 on June 20 : Mary A. Nelson to Ethan and Kelsie Drain, $160,000 on June 20

170 Route 81

MADISON

Bishop Lane Unit 2

: Mark J.

Mackowiak and Christiane M. Burton to Stephen and Phyllis Sun, $225,000 on June 16

$675,000 on June 9

: Roseann MarsicoGyer and Maribeth M. Gesler to Jamyang Lhamo and Lobsang Cyatso, $400,000 on June 4

: Maria Giannelli to Agatha Dalley, $436,000 on June 6

: James N. and Tracy L. Wagner to Fanny A. Aguirre and Oscar R. Cedillo, $495,000 on June 6 : Mark J. Lee to Daniel M. and Gina L. Altano, $530,000 on June 6 39 Locke Drive

OLD SAYBROOK

5 Cromwell Court

: Janet K Brown RET and David R. Brown to Ann S. Distefano, $615,000 on June 17

5 Cromwell Court

: Robert C Brown

RET and David R. Brown to Ann S. Distefano, $615,000 on June 17

20 Otter Cove Drive

: Lozinak Fret and Gregory J. Lozinak to Francis J. and Mary Mayeda, $1,500,000 on June 20

100 Sheffield Street Unit D4

Estate of Phyllis M. Pechon and Ernest E. Pechon to Emil Goduti, $662,500 on June 18 : Keith P. Schroeder to Roberto F. Jimena and Laura S. Gomez, $429,600 on June 16

15 Hurd Bridge Road

9 Evarts Lane Unit 9 65 Old Route 79 Unit 8

: Stephen and Sally Glick to Ann E. Lynch, $1,045,000 on June 17

: Gunilla B

Ferland RET and Gunilla B. Ferland to Carrie H. and Craig P. Carter, $245,000 on June 18

: Leon D. and Yolanda Y. Tates to Timothy J. and Anne Smith, $1,225,000 on June 20

: Jo A. Lynch to Carolyn W. Judge, $1,667,000 on June 18

NORTH HAVEN

: Fracesco J.

Dicristina to Nathan and Paige Stauffer,

16 Mary Mac Loop

: Maureen A. Holden to Reena M. Odera and Rajendra Singh, $440,500 on June 20

297 Old Post Road

: Brandi M. and Craig M. Alfano to T M. GutierrezSarmiento and Fanny Ortiz, $430,000 on June 18

96 River Road

: Dallas Conway to Theodore and Jenna Bemenderfer, $228,750 on June 16

96 River Road

: Mileysa Ponce-Rios to Theodore and Jenna Bemenderfer, $228,750 on June 16

Escape the Noise

(Clinton); Riley Bogart (Westbrook); Sydney Liggett (Chester); Nolan Borysewicz (Mystic); Adeline Burnett (New London); Eliza Sweeney (Guilford); Josh Cooper (East Lyme); Miles Reese (Mystic); Aesop Rish (Northford); Faye Staschke (Madison). Not pictured: Morgan Cheslock (Branford); Elise Paglino (Guilford); Xavier Gonzalez (Madison); Ella Kapsinow (Guilford).

‘Escape the Noise’ Puts Shoreline Teens on Global Stage

Shoreline Theater Academy’s Kidz Konnection program has been selected to perform at the prestigious Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August 2025, presenting an original play that sheds light on the global mental health crisis affecting today’s youth.

personal struggles. Through conversation and shared experiences, they learn that real connection doesn’t require Wi-Fi.

Escape the Noise

The original production, , was created by NYC playwright and artist-in-residence Joey Brenneman in collaboration with 14 students in the academy’s elite dramatic theater program. Developed over the course of two years, the play uses music by Kidz Konnection alum and musician Xan of Mars to explore the impact of smartphone addiction and social media on teenage mental health.

The work was one of just a handful chosen from over 250 youth theater applicants by the American High School Theatre Festival and is endorsed by U.S. Senator Chris Murphy. The group will perform four shows at the Fringe in Edinburgh, joining more than 3,000 other performances from around the globe.

The project originated from the teens themselves, who expressed concern about the mental health crisis in their communities and saw firsthand how digital life fuels anxiety. The program not only created an original theatrical work, but also inspired the development of a long-term arts activism campaign promoting dialogue and policy change around teen mental health.

Before departing for Scotland, the cast will hold a fundraiser and send-off performance on Thursday, July 18, at the Shoreline Theater Academy, 61 E. Main St., Clinton. Showtimes are 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., and tickets are $15, with proceeds supporting the academy’s arts activism efforts.

Escape the Noise

The American premiere of will take place on Friday, August 16, at 6 p.m. on the Guilford Green, as part of the Guilford Arts Festival.

Under the direction of founder and Artistic Director Laura Attanasio, tells the story of 13 teens forced to give up their phones during an outdoor education trip. What begins as frustration turns into connection as the characters confront anxiety, self-doubt, and hidden

Escape the Noise

Funding for this production has been made possible through individual donors, business sponsors, and grants from the Connecticut Office of the Arts, the Guilford Foundation, Project Courage, and the Elks Club of Westbrook.

For more information, call 860-2272363, email shorelinetheateracademy@ gmail.com, or visit shorelinetheater academy.org.

courtesy of Shoreline Theater Academy

Actors and student playwrights from the Shoreline Theater Academy’s Kidz Konnection program prepare to take to Scotland. Back row from left: Miles Reese (Mystic), Aesop Rish (Northford), Nolan Borysewicz (Mystic), Elise Paglino (Guilford), Eliza Sweeney (Guilford); middle: Sydney Liggett (Chester), Ella Kapsinow (Guilford); kneeling back: Morgan Cheslock (Branford), Xavier Gonzalez (Madison), Faye Staschke (Madison); kneeling front: Kiera Flannigan (Clinton), Josh Cooper (East Lyme), Adeline Burnett (New London). Not pictured: Riley Bogart (Westbrook).

Escape the Noise

Photo courtesy of Shoreline Theater Academy

The full cast of , developed at Shoreline Theater Academy in Clinton, will perform at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August 2025. Pictured left to right: Kiera Flannigan

Press Release from the Shoreline Theater Academy

Photo

Continued from page 25

THURSDAY, JULY 17

Discerning the Truth with Marie Lu (Grades 9 to 12)

4 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/scrantonlibrary.

Discerning the Truth with Marie Lu (Grades 9 to 12)

4 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.

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Features networking with local professionals, complimentary appetizers, and a view of the hotel’s summer concert series. Bring business cards. Sponsored by the Madison Chamber of Commerce. For info or to register (required), contact the Madison Chamber at 203-245–7394 or chamber@madisonct.com.

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For children in grades 1 to 6. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Jacobs Beach, Seaside Ave., Guilford. Music by Bootleg Harmony. Sponsored by Guilford Parks and Recreation. For info, call 203-453-8068 or click on the link for the springsummer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.

: 6:30 p.m. Branford Town Green. Music by Jon Regen. Free. No dogs. No alcoholic beverages. Presented by the Town of Branford and the Branford Parks & Recreation Department. For info, visit branfordjazz.com.

: 7 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library Patio, 67 Park St. Music by The Subliminals. Seats are available but may be limited. Bring your own chairs. In the event of rain, the concert will be moved to the meeting room. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Music by Orleans. Free and open to the public. The show starts with the Pledge of Allegiance; music begins at 7:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for sale on the lawn. Bring chairs and blankets. For info, visit madisonbeachhotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings.

FRIDAY, JULY 18

: Noon to 5 p.m. St. Mary Church, 731 Main. St., Branford. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

Summer Reading Event: Judy Pancoast Music and Storytime

: 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Free. For info or to register, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.

SummerWeen (Halloween) Party Cooking Class

: 6 to

8 p.m. The Carriage House at the Women and Family Life Center, 96 Fair St., Guilford. Students will make monster meatball sandwiches and spooky Halloween party cupcakes. Cost: $40, includes all ingredients and materials. Open to ages 6 and up. Students can come dressed in their favorite Halloween costume. Presented by Mary’s Culinary Classes. For info, contact 203-464-8447 or marysculinaryclassesllc@gmail.com, or visit marysculinaryclassesllc.com.

Friday Night Oldie Film

Opening Night for

: 7 p.m. Madison Lyric Stage, Deacon John Grave House grounds, 581 Boston Post Rd., Madison. The show runs through Sunday, Aug. 3. Other showtimes available. For info or tickets, call 203215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.

FRIDAY, JULY 18 THROUGH SUNDAY, JULY 20

68th Annual Guilford Art Center (GAC) Craft Expo

: Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Guilford Town Green. Features more than 170 modern makers in various media, including pottery, glass, leather, jewelry, clothing, fiber art, metal, mixed media, painting, photography, print making, and gourmet food and specialties. Includes live music, food trucks, a family art tent for young visitors, and a silent auction of exhibitor-donated work. Admission: $11 for adults, $9 for seniors (65 and over), and free for GAC members, active military, and children 16 and younger. Multiday pass is $15. Rain or shine. For info, visit guilfordartcenter.org/expo.

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Mary’s Culinary Parent and Me Class: Potato Head Pancakes

: 9 to 10 a.m. Carriage House at the Women and Family Life Center, 96 Fair St., Guilford. Cost: $30 a pair (additional $10 per child if one adult is bringing multiple children). Other adult caregiver apart from parent permitted. For info or to register (required), contact 203464-8447 or marysculinaryclassesllc@gmail.com, or visit the class schedule link at marysculinaryclassesllc.com.

Saturday Sleuths Book Club

: 10 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: by A.J. Finn. Snacks will be provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

The Woman in the Window: A Novel

Open House and Summer Market

: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Allis-Bushnell House back lawn, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Features crafts, art, flowers, and more. Visitors can explore first floor of the museum and the maritime exhibit in the annex. Free admission. For info or to register, call 203-245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org.

: 2 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a no-bake treat. For ages 3 and up. Sponsored by the Friends of Blackstone Library. For info or to register (required), visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Party with a Snow Princess Geology of the Marsh

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a marsh walk at different times of the day; a presentation and Q&A by Ralph Lewis about the Long Island Sound; a display of rocks, minerals, gems, and other items; and a presentation at 4 p.m. about plans to restore the shore at Hammonasset Beach State Park. Part of Salt Marsh Days series. Free admission. Open to families. No registration needed. For info, contact 203-245-8743 or rangermpnc@gmail.com, or visit MeigsPointNatureCenter.org.

New Creation Coffee House

SUNDAY, JULY 20

2025 Summer Concert Series

: 7 p.m. Northford Community Church, 4 Old Post Rd. Features a coffee and praise/worship event with A Revival Sound. For info, call 203-484-0795 or visit northfordcommunity.church. : 6 to 8 p.m. Madison Town Green. Music by the Nightshift Band. Free. Bring lawn chairs and a picnic. No alcohol. Sponsored by Madison Beach and Recreation. For info, visit madisonct.org/710/Summer-Concerts.

MONDAY, JULY 21

Photography for Artists

: 11 a.m. Branford Arts and Cultural Alliance (BACA), 1004 Main St. Features photographer Robert Thomas on the professional techniques for photographing artwork for juried show submissions. Part of a program of monthly workshops covering various aspects of professional art practice, including marketing strategies, pricing artwork, building collector relationships, and navigating gallery representation. To register (required), text Edith Reynolds at 203-232-4384. For info about BACA, visit branfordarts.org.

Musical Monday

: 6 to 8 p.m. Behind the Branford Town Hall, 1019 Main St. Music by Nick Sproviero. Part of the Musical Mondays series through Aug. 25. Sponsored by the Branford Parks and Recreation. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.

Business After Hours

Magnets and Motion

Concert Series at Jacobs Beach

Branford Jazz on the Green 2025

Outdoor Summer Concert Series

2025 Grassy Strip Music Series

Red Cross Blood Drive

Another red fox navigates a snowy landscape, captured in broad daylight but representative of the state’s thriving nocturnal

Things That Go Bump in the Night

From the quiet rustle of a raccoon to the eerie call of an owl, the natural world doesn’t go to sleep when the sun goes down. Learn more about the animals that stir after dark at “Things That Go Bump in the Night,” a free talk by Master Wildlife Conservationist Ginny Apple, hosted at the historic Pardee-Morris House on Sunday, July 27, at 2 p.m.

Apple, a seasoned educator and passionate naturalist, will introduce visitors to Connecticut’s nocturnal wildlife—ranging from opossums and porcupines to great horned owls. The talk is appropriate for all ages and offers an engaging look at the behavior, habitats, and adaptations of the state’s nighttime dwellers. Apple brings a unique perspective to her conservation work. A former sportswriter and public relations professional, she now

lives in the woods of Barkhamsted, where she closely observes black bears and other wildlife from her home near Peoples State Forest. Her field notes and photography regularly contribute to research by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), where she serves as a Master Wildlife Conservationist.

Her expertise spans bears, bobcats, beavers, bald eagles, and coyotes, and she

volunteers with multiple organizations, including the Shepaug Bald Eagle Observatory, Friends of Connecticut State Parks, and the Barkhamsted Conservation Commission.

The program is part of the New Haven Museum’s 2025 summer season at the Pardee-Morris House. For updates, visit newhavenmuseum.org or follow @New HavenMuseum on social media.

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

wildlife.

Black bears climb a tree in search of food in Barkhamsted, where Ginny Apple documents local wildlife as part of her conservation work.

A raccoon emerges from tall grass near a body of water, one of many local animals that forage during quieter hours.

A red fox stands alert in a snowy field—one of Connecticut’s many elusive animals active at dusk and dawn.

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

Continued from page 30

ONGOING EVENTS

Art Exhibits

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) West 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:

River St., East Haven. Cost: $5 suggested donation. For info, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

Vibrant Vision of Painter Howard Fussiner

: 360 State St., New Haven: For info, contact 203-433-4071 or baca06405@gmail.com, or visit branfordarts.org/events. : Runs through Aug. 31.

Guilford Art Center (GAC)

: 411 Church

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

Fiber Reimagined III

: Runs through July 27.

James Blackstone Memorial Library Upper Rotunda Gallery

Robert Jawitz: Animal Portraiture

: 758 Main St., Branford: For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org. : Runs through Aug. 30.

Nathanael B. Greene Community Center

: 32 Church St., Guilford: For info, visit guilfordartleague.org.

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

Farmers Market

East Haven Farmers Market

: 8 a.m. to

1 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 12. East Haven Town Green. For info, call 203-4683204 or visit easthaven-ct.gov/farmersmarket.

Farmers Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds

: 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.

: Runs through July 15.

Susan Powell Fine Art

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

Guilford Art League 2025 Spring Show Summer in New England

: Runs through Sept. 28.

Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library Keyes Gallery

: 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek: For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/gallery.

Madison Farmers Market

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

The Dudley Farm Farmers Market

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

: Runs Aug. 1 through Aug. 24

The Annual Stony Creek Summer Art Show

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.

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OLD SAYBROOK

‘Escape the Noise’ Puts Shoreline Teens on Global Stage

Things That Go Bump in the Night

ONGOING EVENTS