Issuu

December 18, 2025

.com

Branford, North Branford & Northford Vol. XXIX Iss. 51

A Second Chance for Resilient Scholars By Nicholas Checker Special to Shore Publishing

When the fabulous film “Rocky” first hit cinemas in 1975, the notion of a second chance for a more meaningful life absolutely captivated the American public. And when the film’s star and first-time screenwriter, Sylvester Stallone, was asked what he con-

sidered the most important element to the story, he replied instantly: “Rocky had to be identifiable.” In any struggle-to-success story, that theme does indeed contain a universal appeal. And many people can relate. Let it be said, then, that the same is true of adults benefiting from the Branford Rotary Club’s Resilient Scholarship, which began only last

year, and affords the proverbial second chance to those seeking to transcend where life has landed them. The origins of this unique, second chance at life’s dreams came, ironically, when an aspiring adult, seeking the means of continuing education, inquired about available See A Second Chance page 14

Nativity Portrayal Actors and live animals portrayed seven biblical Christmas scenes during the annual Stony Creek Christmas Pageant and Live Nativity on Dec. 13. The event, hosted by Stony Creek Congregational Church, featured the nativity story along a route lined with luminaries between the Stony Creek Museum and town dock with the Stony Creek Fife and Drum Corps opening celebration.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ The Sound

Mace Vitale has been teaching the metallic arts at the Guilford Arts Center for about 20 years..............2

National Champs The Branford Youth Cheerleading D16 Level 4 team capped off a strong season this year with a national championship.................20

Christmas in the Philippines Living Editor Maria Caulfield shares her experience with celebrating the holidays overseas........................24

Donations from our readers help ensure we can provide our product FREE of charge each week. We are grateful for your generosity.

DONATE NOW AT ZIP06.COM/VOLUNTARYPAY

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

Learning About the Metallic Arts With Mace Vitale By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer

Located just outside downtown, the Guilford Arts Center offers a variety of workshops for those who want to explore their creative side, from weaving to painting, to ceramics and sculpture. There is also an opportunity for crafters to get a bit more physical and noisy in their quest to create something from nothing, like a kitchen knife that cuts with precision or a beautiful hook for hanging a coat. These metallic creations can be forged in the blacksmithing and bladesmithing classes at the arts center under the tutelage of Mace Vitale. Mace has been teaching the metallic arts at the art center for about 20 years, a journey that began when he first learned her craft at the facility. “I took my first blacksmithing class here,” Mace says. “That was my introduction to it.” He was eventually approached

Person

of the Week by a former instructor at the arts center who asked if was interested in teaching a class himself. This was before there was a specific space devoted to metallic arts like there is now, where things can get dusty, noisy, but thrilling, too. Since then, Mace’s elevation of the program has been an ongoing process. He built up the space by bringing in equipment from his own workshop and raising funds over the years to acquire more equipment for the classes. He is still looking to bring in more equipment to expand the possibilities of creations and satisfy the artistic side of handy individuals like himself. Beyond teaching, Mace had desired to work in a space where

craftsmanship meets creativity. Fortunately, the universe appeared to be listening. “I was at a point in my life where I was working for companies selling mortgages, and the company was closing, and I was going to look for a job. A friend of mine was helping me with a resume, and he said, ‘What would your dream job be?’ Without even thinking about it, I said, ‘I don’t know, working with metal, hammers and torches, something like that.’ And then, literally three days later, I picked up the [paper’s] wanted ads and all it said was ‘Hammer and torch guy wanted, phone number here in Guilford.’ I called the number and I got hired at Connectiut Coppersmiths here in town.” Along with being the town blacksmith, Mace is also a member of the American Bladesmith Society and the president of the Connecticut Blacksmith Guild. Members of such organizations

PAUL

See Learning page 12

hair

SHORELINE I NSU RA NC E

Photo Credited to Aaron Rubin

Mace Vitale is a seasoned craftsmen who teaches the art of the hammer and anvil at Guilford Art Center.

COMPANY color & design

SERVICES INC

556 Main Street, Branford, CT 06405

203-433-4969

Steve

www.shorelineinsurancect.com

The Shoreline Team for 2025

John

“The Shoreline’s Local Medicare and Health Care Specialists”

Happy Holidays from the Staff at Shoreline Insurance Services! Is your plan right for you? Call us for a complimentary review. Representing all the major carriers & Access Health CT Authorized Broker. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Ready for a fresh new look?

Brighten your Look WhetherUp you want a bold color for Winter 97 Montowese Street, Branford, change or a sleek new cut, our CT 06405 203-488-7922 withexpert ourstylists Special ! PaulAndCompany.com will bring your

Partialvision Highlight, Haircut to life. Book now! and Style for $120*(Regular Price - $178) *New Customers only 97 Montowese Street, Branford, CT 06405 PaulAndCompany.com

203-488-7922

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Inside Sports The Chance to Develop The Hand girls’ ice hockey co-op team, which includes athletes from Westbrook and Old Saybrook, is focused on development and staying competitive this winter.........................21 Winter Basketball Camps Madison Hoop Dreams is holding a three-day basketball camp the week after Christmas.............................................. 22

Living The Perfect RETIREMENT

Starting Off Strong The Branford girls’ basketball team earned a dominant win in its season opener last week.......................................... 22

A Must-See Show Goodspeed’s production of White Christmas is leaving people impressed with its final product.......... 27 Arts and Events Check out the list of upcoming events happening all across the shoreline...... 25

Quote

of the week

Scan to Schedule Your Tour or Call (203) 654-3360 ACTIVE ADULT • INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING • SKILLED NURSING • REHAB 88 Notch Hill Road • Branford, CT 06471 (203) 654-3360 • Evergreen-Woods.com

“As a coach, of course you dream of wins, but those proud, genuine smiles at the end of a routine — that’s what stays with you long after the season ends.” - Oriana Orsini..................20

The Sound

(usps 020-332) Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Branford, CT 06405 Postmaster: Send address changes to The Sound, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320

Mixed Feelings Yale Rep’s production of Hedda Gabler leaves an underwhelming impression..................................................... 28

Index Obituaries............................................ 5 Classifieds..........................................15 Sudoku...............................................19 Sports..................................................20 Tides....................................................22 Living..................................................24 Calendar.............................................25 Real Estate.........................................31

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

North Branford Town Manager Departing For New Position Branford, North Branford, & Northford’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 1997 Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2025 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Editorial Staff

Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Gabrielle Maljanian Sports Editor

Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Eric O’Connell Harbor News

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

North Branford Town Manager Michael Downes has announced he will be leaving his position for a new job with state Republicans effective Jan. 5. The town will begin a search to find his replacement in the new year. At a North Branford Town Council meeting on Dec. 9, Downes informed the council of his decision to leave as town manager, a position that has him running Branford’s day-to-day operations. He will be taking a new job as the Connecticut Senate Republican Office’s next Chief of Staff. Downes has previously worked with the Connecticut House Republican Caucus for 21 years, most recently as Director of Communications for the House Republican Office in the Connecticut General Assembly from 2010-2017. Downes has been the town manager in North Branford since 2022. Prior to that he served as the Chief of Staff for the Town of Stratford and served on the North Branford Town Council from 1997-2003, and again from 2021-2022. His last day in North Branford will be Jan. 5. Downes told The Sound that he had not been planning on leaving North Branford, but the new opportunity was “too good to turn down.” “It’s tough to say goodbye. I’ll be leaving a great team behind at town hall and at the council. I was born and raised in North Branford and still live in town so I won’t be a stranger. They’ll still have to deal with me as a taxpayer now,” Downes joked. At the meeting on Dec. 9, Downes read a statement into the record thanking the council and residents for their trust in him. “I deeply appreciate the opportunity the North Branford Town Council gave me to serve the residents of the community I was born and raised in. I am especially grateful for the opportunity I have had to work with such an amazing town staff - these are hardworking dedicated public servants who are tireless in their effort to make our amazing little town the best it can be. I thank the council, the staff, and the residents who have given me such great support in this role. I am looking forward to the new challenges that await me, and I will always remember the great people I had the privilege to work with here,” Downes said in part. Later in the meeting, North Branford Mayor Rose Angeloni publicly thanked

Town of North Branford

Departing North Branford Town Manager Michael Downes. Photo courtesy of the Town of North Branford

Downes for his service and said she has “thoroughly enjoyed working with him.” Toward the end of the public session of the meeting, Downes was given a round of applause from the council members and those in the audience. b

The Search In North Branford, the manager is responsible for tasks like “appointing town staff, the development and execution of the annual operating and capital budget, directing municipal operations, and communications with the Town Council, various boards and commissions, and Town staff,” according to a job description on the town’s website. With Downes departing, the town will now have to plan to find a full-time replacement. Angeloni said that Assistant Town Manager Rory Burke will be named interim manager at a special Town Council meeting scheduled for the week of Dec. 14 (after press time for this issue). “Rory has worked under Mike for a few years and will work to make sure there is a smooth transition,” Angeloni said. Angeloni said the town will advertise the opening and begin interviewing candidates for the full-time position “in a few weeks.” In the days leading up to his departure, Downes said he would be working on handing off ongoing projects to ensure “a smooth transition for the town.”

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Obituaries

Contacting The Sound

Obituary

Elizabeth Vancisin Branford Elizabeth Ann Butler Vancisin, daughter of Lee and Trula Butler, passed away on Nov. 19, 2025, just eight days shy of her 101st birthday. She was born on Thanksgiving Day on November 27, 1924. Elizabeth graduated from Iowa State University in 1946, where she was homecoming queen and a member of Gamma Phi Sorority. She remained a loyal ISU fan her entire life. After graduation, she moved to Minneapolis where she worked in Dayton’s Department Store in the Bridal Registry Department. She met her husband, Joseph Richard Vancisin, an Assistant Coach for basketball and baseball at the University of Minnesota, and married in 1951. They had two children, Richard and Susan, and moved to Connecticut to raise their family, where Joe became the Head Basketball Coach at Yale. Elizabeth was involved in the Woman’s Club, a service club, and eventually became the President of the Connecticut State Federation of Women’s Clubs. She was active in her church as the Treasurer and as the Flower Chairman, as well as many other things. She helped run and organize the Red Cross Blood Drive in town, as well as serve as the Troop Leader for her daughter’s Girl Scout Troop. She was an invaluable partner to her husband in running the National Association of Basketball Coaches after he became Executive Director. Elizabeth was a positive person who

always had a smile for everyone. She had an adventurous spirit with a bucket list for life that culminated in skydiving when she was 89! She traveled to many places around the world including Europe, Africa, Argentina and one of her favorite places Kauai, Hawaii. She loved to read and always wanted to learn new things and continued to learn up to the very end of her life. She loved to meet new people and learn their stories. Elizabeth’s greatest joy in her life was her family. She always wanted to hear about what they were doing and rejoiced in all their achievements. Having everyone together was one of the most important and happiest times of her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Trula Butler; her sisters, Mary Lou Hines and Nancy Lee Pegram; and her loving husband, Joseph Richard Vancisin. Elizabeth is survived by her two children, Richard (Heidi) and Susan (Kenneth Miller); four grandchildren: Christopher Vancisin (Abigail), Dana Schryver (Conner), Rebecca Miller and Joshua Miller (Elizabeth Marie); and three greatgrandchildren, Finley, Annabelle and August. Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of her Life at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, in the dining room at Wesley Woods Towers, 1825 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to: First Baptist Church of Branford, 975 Main Street, Branford, CT. 06405; Branford Food Pantry, 30 Harrison Avenue Unit 2, Branford, CT. 06405; or Atlanta Community Food Bank, 3400 N Desert Dr. East, East Point, GA 30344.

As your hometown paper, The Sound welcomes reader contributions and questions. If it’s important to you, we want to know about it. Here are the best ways to bring matters to our attention. LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Sound encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues. Writers may submit letters as often as every two weeks. Letters must include the writer’s full name, street address, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters submitted under pseudonyms, anonymously, or through third parties will be declined. Letters must be written by the submitter. No more than four signees are permitted per letter. Letters must be 300 words or fewer and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Letter writers may be asked to supply sources to corroborate information presented as fact in letters. Civility is required. Letters with personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined. For letters endorsing a political candidate, Shore Publishing will accept one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections to allow for candidate rebuttal. Letters must be received and verbally confirmed by 5 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Publication is subject to approval by the editor. Letter writers who knowingly violate this policy three times will be banned from submitting future letters to the editor. Letters may be submitted at www.zip06.com or email to shoreletters@shorepublishing.com. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CALENDAR To have your item considered for print, please email news@shorepublishing.com. Announcements and calendar items are printed as space allows. Deadline for submissions is Tuesday at noon, nine days before publication. These are just a few ways to get involved in your newspaper. If you have an idea for a story, a question about news deadlines, or any other news-related inquiry, email news@shorepublishing.com or call the News Department at 203-245-1877, ext. 0. OBITUARIES The Sound publishes paid obituary notices in print and at Zip06.com. Obituaries should be sent to obits@theday.com. The deadline for all obituaries is Wednesday at 4 p.m., eight days prior to publication date. Obituaries will also be posted as quickly as possible at Zip06.com. ADVERTISING To speak with someone about newspaper and online advertising, contact the Sales Department at advertising@shorepublishing.com or 203-245-1877. All advertising is subject to the approval of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing shall have the right to revise, reject or cancel, in whole or in part, any advertisement at any time for any or no reason. LEGAL NOTICES To place a legal notice, email legal@theday.com or call 860-701-4410. CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad in the Classifieds section or in the Classifieds Service Directory, call 860-701-4200 and/or email classifiedads@theday.com. CIRCULATION To speak with someone about receiving or canceling the paper, please call 203-245-1877, ext. 6 or email shorecirculation@shorepublishing.com. The Sound 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 news@shorepublishing.com 203-245-1877 Fax 203-245-9773

SPONSORED CONTENT:

See Obituaries page 9

Come for Sunday Service The Northford Community Church, 4 Old Post Road, offers weekly church service on Sunday at 10 a.m. All are welcome. For more information, call 203-484-0795 or visit northfordcongregational.church.

Correction Branford’s Fair Rent Commission holds hearings at the Joe Trepasso Community House, 46 Church St., Branford. The site of the hearings was incorrect in a front-page article in The Sound last week.

Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

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

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

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

Village Greene

Visit our new store!

Martin Luther King Heritage Foundation Sponsors Breakfast Jan. 19 Featuring Civil Rights Attorney Press Release from the MLK Heritage Foundation

Sunflower Seed $28(40lb) NEXT TO ANTHON Y’S RESTAURANT

EXPANDED BIRD DEPT. (shop prices online)

$5 Off any $30 SALE OR

$10 OFF

any $60 SALE Wreaths, Trees, Swags Greens, Poinsettias, Arrangements, Pots, Grave items Excludes Gift, Sale items, Must hand in Coupon. Not combinable. Expires 12-24-25

Village Greene Gardens 2392 Route 1, Guilford (Exit 57) 203-453-1818

Details in store and at villagegreene.net

Renowned civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale will be the featured speaker at the 41st annual MLK Day Breakfast on Jan. 19 at Branford High School. Sponsored by the MLK Heritage Foundation and Branford Public Schools, the breakfast has become an annual tradition, bringing together hundreds of community members for a morning of food, music, and inspiration. As a long-time public defender and president of the Public Justice Foundation, Tisdale has dedicated his life to standing up to injustice. A partner at Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder, he has fought in the courts against bias, discrimination and oppression, and has served on the boards of multiple civic organizations that aid the less fortunate, including the Fairfield County Community Foundation and the Bridgeport Public Education Fund. He is also a recipient of the NAACP Distinguished Service Award. Tisdale’s speech at the 2026 MLK Breakfast is titled, “Now Is the Time to Take a Stand,” and will address the need to step forward and not turn away in the face of increasing uncertainty, he said. “Now is the time to make real the promise of democracy and transform our national elegy into a creative psalm of brotherhood,” said Tisdale, quoting Dr. King. “Now is the time to lift our national policy from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of human dignity.” Tickets at $20 ($5 for students) will include a full breakfast,

SERVING PATIENTS IN OUR

Smile Confidently This Holiday Season Start the new year with the smile you’ve always wanted.

EAST HAVEN OFFICE AND OPTICAL BOUTIQUE SHOP

Dr. Anthony Bellucci, DMD

144 N Main St #6 Branford, CT 06405

EYE HEALTH ASSESSMENTS, OCULAR CONDITIONS, POSTTOPERATIVE CARE, PRECISION CONTACT LENS

Dr. Vinnie Gupta, DDS

Now Accepting New Patients

SPECIALIZING IN GENERAL MANAGEMENT OF COMPLEX

FREE Invisalign® Consultations Flexible Financing Available Top-Rated Care in Branford

(203) 780-4008

songs by the Branford High School Music Makers and a chance to network with others. “There is nothing in Branford quite like the MLK Breakfast,” said Mary Fitz-Perry, president of the MLK Heritage Foundation, which co-hosts the event. “To see more than 250 people, from all ages and backgrounds, get together and genuinely talk to each other is a marvelous thing.” “Branford Public Schools is honored to partner with the MLK Heritage Foundation for this year’s annual breakfast,” said Superintendent Chris Tranberg. “This event brings out the very best in our community, students, educators, and residents coming together to celebrate the enduring legacy of Dr. King.” Begun in 1985 at the small AME Zion Church in Branford, the breakfast has grown to become an important annual event on the holiday calendar, attracting politicians and dignitaries from across the state. Past speakers include Pulitzer Prize winning author Jeffrey Stewart; Jane Elliott, creator of the famed Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes study; CT U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts; and author and criminal justice advocate Chris Wilson. The breakfast also spawned the MLK Heritage Foundation, which now holds events throughout the year, including the Meals for the Mind evenings where 10 strangers from different backgrounds - whether cultural, racial, ideological, or generational – share a meal and simply get to know each other. For more information visit MLKHeritage.org. Tickets are available at: https://events.eventgroove.com/event/2026-MlkBreakfast-Preston-Tisdale-118580.

FITTINGS, AND EMERGENCY EYE CARE.

Scan to Book Instantly

PureSmilesCT.com

Limited Appointments Available This Year

DR. ANN M. CARONE, OPTOMETRIST

203-468-8800 middlesexeye.com

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Home for the Holidays: Who Can Resist Snickers? Story by Carol Andrecs

Beautiful Snickers was passed from house to house, confused as to who would love and care for her the rest of her life. Through no fault of her own, this colorful tortoiseshell has endured too many upsetting changes and longs to feel safe and secure. Would you open your heart and home to Snickers and offer her permanent, unconditional love? To bring her home for the holidays, come meet this sweet and affectionate girl at our open house or apply to adopt her online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org. b

Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. 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. For more information, contact 860-669-1347 or volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.

Photo by Tracye Mueller

Looking for the Perfect Christmas Tree and Wreath? The East Shoreline Catholic Academy (ESCA) hosts its annual Christmas tree and wreath sale featuring a variety of trees, wreaths, and cemetery blankets. The sale runs through Tuesday, Dec. 23 (or until supplies run out), with the following hours: Thursdays, 5 to 8 p.m.; Fridays, 5 to 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The sale takes place on the ESCA campus, 62 Cedar Street, Branford. All proceeds benefit the student population of East Shoreline Catholic Academy, the only Catholic Pre-K-8 school on the east shoreline from Guilford to New Haven. For more information, email escatreesale@esca.eduk12.net.

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

Ring in the New Year at WoodWinds Premium Open Bar, DJ Entertainment, Party Favors & Midnight Champagne Toast!

Your DREAM WEDDING Starts Here! Sunday, January 25th from 11-2 Two Lucky Couples will WIN $5,000 toward your WoodWinds Wedding!

Picture Yourself Here!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day Saturday, February 14th from 7-11p Premium Open Bar, DJ with Full Dance Floor & Our Award Winning Cuisine! View the full menu on our website

Call Now For Reservations 203-481-6577 201 Granite Road, Guilford, CT 06437 | SolsticeSeniorLivingGuilford.com | (203) 458-3337

thewoodwinds.com

29 Schoolground Rd, Branford

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

Spirit of Christmas (Still) Lives On at Two Local Diners By Nicholas Checker Special to Shore Publishing

In the 1951 Alastair Sim film version of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” a pair of kindly businessmen approach the surly Scrooge about a donation to help provide some holiday food and drink for those in need. And true to his dour disposition, old Ebenezer callously asks them … “Why?” If the miserly Scrooge’s cynical question were posed today, there are those in the Branford and East Haven communities who would respond in ways that might rattle Dickens’ sour old miser every bit as much as the Yuletide Spirits did, who visited him Christmas Night and reawakened his soul. In an immediate follow-up to their free Thanksgiving dinners donated to people in need of a holiday filled with cheer instead of despair, the Parthenon Diner of Branford and the Twin Pines Diner of East Haven are once again extending their generosity this forthcoming Christmas season. This time it’s in the form of Holiday Gift Cards ($25 each) for individuals or families that could use a bit of a financial boost. “My feeling has always been that if you have a healthy life, and a healthy happy family of your own, it’s only right that you look to help others too,” said Andy Amendola, longtime Branford resident and East Haven attorney as well. Amendola was among the first to launch the annual Thanksgiving gift dinners for families and individuals whose finances had been diminished … in particular, due to the Covid crisis. Pretty much everyone felt the bite back then, some a good deal more than others. It gave local citizens like Amendola and Parthenon Diner owner John Sousoulas cause to initiate what would evolve into an annual Thanksgiving tradition, followed by a gift certificate Christmas special to cap off the season. “The important thing here is to help relieve pressure and stress from people during a time when they should be experiencing a degree of respite … and to feel some comfort when it’s most needed and most deserved,” Amendola said. Such an answer to Scrooge’s glib question “why” might well have got that old miser’s attention. John Sousoulas agrees totally with Amendola, and it’s why his Parthenon Diner in Branford — and Jim Triantis’ Twin Pines Diner in East Haven — have joined forces in providing the free Thanksgiving dinners and the Christmas gift certificates for those who would benefit from them. “If you’re able to help your neighbors, it’s

photo submitted

Parthenon Diner in Branford

important then that you do so. You want them all to know the joy and comfort of a gift … especially where there are children involved,” Sousoulas added. “It’s a matter of knowing that someone cares.” And while the Christmas season can instead be a time of depression and anxiety for those who feel lonely or abandoned, citizens like Amendola, Sousoulas, and Triantis recognize that, and continue their annual Thanksgiving and Christmas tradition — along with the many generous donors who also contribute — all in hopes of seeing people experiencing more comfortable and memorable holidays. The $25 gift certificates are good for shopping at outlets like Stop & Shop, Kohls, and Five Below. “We especially look to our seniors, our veterans, and our local residents in need … and the children of people who could use something extra,” said Amendola. “No

child should ever be disappointed by not receiving a gift from Santa.” Thanksgiving dinner donations this year generated over $10,000; Christmas gift card donations should exceed $25,000. (Any leftover funds will go toward Stop & Shop gift cards in 2026.). Those who’d like to donate to the Christmas Gift Certificates, contact Amendola (203-469-5333). To receive a Christmas Gift Card, prospective recipients need only contact the local diner where they obtained their gifted Thanksgiving dinner: Parthenon Diner in Branford (203-481-0333); Twin Pines Diner in East Haven (203-468-6887). Select organizations that will also receive Christmas Gift Cards include Branford Counseling & Community Services, Orchard House Adult Medical Day Center, Branford Early Learning Center, Feed Branford Kids, BHcare Branford

Clothing Bank, St. Mary’s Church (St. John Bosco Parish), Take A Vet Fishing, Branford Rec Department. “In the end,” Sousoulas adds, “Christmas is family … and it’s giving without expecting anything in return. It’s all about the feelings of love, peace, and happiness.” Even miserly old Ebenezer Scrooge finally understood that in the end. This year’s Christmas donors include: Andy Amendola, John Sousouous, Jim Triantis, Bob & Jeanette Mobeck, Elain Parisi, Mike Piagentini, Gary Vogel, Melodie Lane O’Connor, Anthony Scialla, Dino Maniatis, Don and Jesse Herzog, John and Gerry Nicholson, Jamie Weiland, Ryan Torello, Rich Ammerling, Mike Iannuzzi Jr./Tyco, Dan McNammara/V.F.McNeil Insurance, Charles Masotta, Barry and Pam Ertelt … and a number of generous anonymous donors.

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Obituaries

Picture YourselfREWIRING Here! LAMP

Continued from page 5

Obituary

Ann Casanova Branford Ann Reed Olson Casanova, age 94, of Branford, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 30, 2025. Ann is survived by her husband of 75 years, James Casanova of Branford; sons, James E. Casanova, (Robbie Butler) of Charlottsville, VA, Gerald Casanova of Branford, David Casanova (Randee) of East Hampton; and daughter Lisa Morrison (John) of Waxhaw, NC; along with grandchildren: Nicole Bristow (Charlotte, NC), Samantha Lambiase Crawford (Michael) Candler, NC, and Christian Casanova (Brooklyn, NY). Ann is also survived by three great-grandchildren, Lucas and Amelia Bristow, and Isabella Crawford; as well as many cousins, nephews, nieces, and dear friends. Ann is predeceased by her parents, Ernest Olson and Marion Reed Olson; and brothers, Philip Olson (Nancy) and Ernest Olson (Peggy). A lifelong resident of Branford, Ann often remarked on the wonderful life she’d lived on Connecticut’s Shoreline. She grew up in Indian Neck, half a block from the beach, surrounded by loving relatives, many of whom lived nearby. Especially memorable were her teen years when summers with her mother and brothers were spent on

Block Island, RI, helping at the Vail Hotel owned by her uncle Louis Ritzinger. Following graduation from Branford High School, Ann earned a degree in accounting from the Stone School of Business. Like many progressive women of the 70s, she found satisfaction juggling home, children, marriage, and a busy career as a bookkeeper with longstanding clients. Ann especially enjoyed time with family and friends, entertaining, travel, and leading a healthy lifestyle. She was a Lifetime Weight Watchers member who stayed current on medical and nutrition news, and was a charter member of the Soundview Family YMCA, where she participated in aquatic fitness well into her 80s. At home she was an ardent UConn women’s basketball fan, an avid cruciverbalist (solver of crossword puzzles), and a regular viewer of TV’ shows, "Young and the Restless," "Jeopardy," and "Wheel of Fortune." A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, at St. Therese Church of St. John Bosco Parish, 105 Leetes Island Road, Branford, followed by her Committal at St. Agnes Cemetery in Branford. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Ann’s memory to the Branford Community Foundation at https://www.branfordcommunityfoundation.org/donate/ Please see her online memorial @ www.wsclancy.com.

Table Lamps, Floor Lamps, Chandeliers WALLINGFORD LAMP AND SHADE, LLC

Street, • 203-269-2177 201 Granite124 Road,Center Guilford, CT 06437 | Wallingford SolsticeSeniorLivingGuilford.com | (203) 458-3337

FHA REVERSE MORTGAGES Regulated and insured by FHA • • • •

Supplement retirement income Stop depleting your savings Help pay off other debt Improve your quality of life!

Rick Schluter NMLS: 485946 Reverse Mortgage Specialist

5 Crescent Bluff Ave., Branford, CT 06405 rschluter@mutualmortgage.com

Call 973.723.5106 475.372.6283for foryour yourfree freeguide! guide! Borrower must occupy home as primary residence and remain current on property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, the costs of home maintenance, and any HOA fees. Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, Inc. dba Mutual of Omaha Reverse Mortgage, NMLS ID 1025894. Connecticut Mortgage Lender License ML-1025894. Licensed by the New Jersey Banking and Insurance Department. New Jersey Residential Mortgage Lender License 1025894. These materials are not from HUD or FHA and the document was not approved by HUD, FHA or any Government Agency. Subject to Credit Approval. For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org #1600693569 Expires 02/2028

See Obituaries page 10

Connecticut Trial Lawyers

$22.8 MILLION

Medical Malpractice Verdict

*Results are case-specific

The Lawyers you need when you need a lawyer.

We are proud of our 70 year reputation as an honest firm that employs hard working attorneys who are dedicated to fighting for their clients’ rights.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION!

(203)

333-3333

LTKE Law, 52 Trumbull Street, New Haven, CT 06510 • www.LTKE.com



DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

Be prepared before the next power outage.

Obituaries Continued from page 9 Obituary

Austra Schneider Branford Austra Schneider, 78, of Branford, passed away on Dec. 2, 2025, at the Hospital of St. Raphael Campus, YNHH. She is survived by her daughter, Adrienne; her sisters, Anna and Alena; five grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, Arnold Obituary

Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase* - valued at $535.

Ciro Buonocore Branford

Call 860-743-9632 to schedule your free quote!

SAVE OVER

52 % includes shipping

REG. $49.99

#483X | Hale Select Deluxe Gift Box

This gift box is the ideal gift for fruit and snack lovers alike. Perfect for sharing or gifting, this box brings a taste of sunshine and sweetness straight to your door. SAVE OVER

NOW

3499

+$7.99

shipping

REG. BONUS DEAL! $39.99

46% NOW $2999 +$7.99 shipping

#485X Hale Select Gift Box

Call 877-548-3116 or visit HaleGroves.com/H6YF24 Mention Code H6YF24 for your savings on Items #483X or #485X.

*$7.99 shipping & handling. Satisfaction completely guaranteed. This gift ships in December at the peak of freshness. Order by Dec. 19, 2025 for GUARANTEED Christmas delivery. AZ, CA, TX & LA order by Dec. 12, 2025.

SINCE 1947 - HALE GROVES, VERO BEACH, FL 32966

and Genevieve Egletes; her brother Albert; her sister Jo Ann; and her beloved daughter, Regina. Mrs. Schneider retired after a 25-year career as a supervisor with SNET/SBC. Relatives and friends are invited to a memorial visitation from 2 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford.

IC: H6YF24

Ciro Buonocore, of Branford, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, while at Autumn Lake Healthcare in Madison. He was the beloved husband of the late Rosemarie Salperto Buonocore. Ciro was born in New Haven on Nov. 18, 1932, a son of the late Giacomo and Maria Buonocore. He grew up in the well-known Morris Cove area of New Haven, and had also spent some time in the U. S. Army as a young man, as well. He married Rosemarie in 1958, and later went on to buy their long-term home in Branford. He worked as a liquor salesman for many years prior to his retirement, but his true passion was always being out on the water, and he had owned many boats throughout the years.

He was a member of the APBA and was an avid hydroplane racer, as well as a longtime and very active member of the Branford Yacht Club. He is survived by his daughter Loren Curran of Guilford; his grandchildren, Caleigh Curran of Medford, of Massachusetts, and Jack Curran of Guilford; his sister Resty Melaccio of North Branford; and his brother Louis Buonocore of Indiana. He was predeceased by his oldest sister, Christine Miller. Visiting hours were from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday evening, Dec. 8, at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. on Tuesday morning, Dec. 9, in St. John Bosco Parish at St. Therese Church, 105 Leetes Island Road, Branford. Burial followed in St. Agnes Cemetery. For directions and online memorial, see www.wsclancy.com.

Give Seniors the Gift of Warmth Snuggles For Shoreline Seniors is hosting its 2025 New Blanket Drive. Donations of new blankets can be dropped off through Sunday, Dec. 21, at the following Branford locations: James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main Street; Branford Cleaners, 275 Main Street; Coastal Wine and Spirits, 103 North Main Street; Eli's Branford, 624 West Main Street; Lockworks Tavern, 1212 Main Street; Parthenon Diner, 374 East Main Street; Shoreline Insurance Services, 556 Main Street; Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Centers, 374 East Main Street; the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Road, Stony Creek; and Bringing Joy, 37 Broadway in North Haven. The new blankets will benefit seniors in the Community Dining Room Home Delivery Service and other seniors within the town of Branford. For more information, contact 203-208-8942 or Blanketsforseniors@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Twin Pines

Restaurant & Diner

Affordable Family Dining

Where the Food is Good & The Price is Right!

Private banquet room available for all occasions.

$5 OFF *with this ad

*Exp. 12/31/2025. Min. of $35 Purchase. 1 coupon per table. Not combinable with other offers

10% OFF

OPEN 7 Days

860-388-6313

Family Owned Female Run

VarietyAdultBoutique.com

Our Prices Our Selection Our Knowledge We Carry Only the Newest Intimate Health and Fitness Gear

*with this ad

Making Us Worth the Time and Drive

Open 24 Hours 7 Days A Week

Lingerie, Pumps, Lotions, Potions, Electro-Play, Fetish, Fantasy, Furniture

*Exp. 12/31/2025. Min. of $10 Purchase. 1 coupon per table. Not combinable with other offers

34 Main St. • East Haven • 468-6887

Conveniently located off I-95N, exit 51, 3 Lights Ahead On Branford/East Haven Line on Rt. 1

Saturday, December 20th | 11am to 4pm

All the Sizes, Colors and Body Safe Materials Needed for Every Orientation

Over 200 Holiday Gift Vendors, Crafters, Authors, Bakers, Food & Beverage Vendors, Musicians, Entertainers, Artisans, Kids Activities, Cookie Decorating, Face Painting, Toy Stuffing Event Specialty Coffees and more!

LOCATED INSIDE OUR HOLIDAY CORRIDOR BETWEEN LOFT AND SHOPPER SERVICES!

Variety Boutique 774 Boston Post Rd. Old Saybrook, CT

WELCOMING DR. NHU-Y T. DAO JANUARY 5, 2026 Expanding Expert Eye Care in Guilford & Middletown

Christmas Toy Event Visit SANTA * Noon-3pm

Suite B110 * 11am to 5pm FREE GIFT WRAPPING (In Store purchases only)

Discounts, Raffles, Kids Activities and LOADS of Toys!

A Book Now (203) 453-3100 middlesexeye.com

COLLECTIBLE CARD SHOW Suite C100 10am to 3pm

CHRISTMAS

ϯϭϰ &ůĂƚ ZŽĐŬ WůĂĐĞ ͮ tĞƐƚďƌŽŽŬ͕ d ͮ Ϭϲϯϵϴ ϴϲϬͲϯϵϵͲϴϲϱϲ ͮ ǁǁǁ͘ǁĞƐƚďƌŽŽŬŽƵƚůĞƚƐ͘ĐŽŵ

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

Learning About Metallic Arts with Mace Vitale at Guilford Art Center Continued from page 2 recognize the artistic aspect of knife-making that give them a gleaming beauty. “The level of craftsmanship and artistry that’s found in this line of work is absolutely mind boggling,” Mace says. “I’ve been trying, on my end, to try to bring knives as art to people, because they can be very artistic. There’s something primordial and powerful about a knife and holding a knife.” ‘Primordial’ is the key word in the ancient craft of blacksmithing and blademithing tied to narratives across time, from the Ancient Greeks and Romans, to Medieval times, and the American Old West. In the blacksmithing classes, beginning crafters will typically start with making nails and work their way to making objects like knives and swords. Under Mace’s instruction, hunks of metal will be turned into various objects like knives and hatchets, skulls and faces, and war hammers. In these workshops, students will learn not just how to physically make these objects, but also the chemistry that makes them beautiful to look at. Both of these aspects often need to connect in order to have a usable object. “That’s really the important part of it,” says Mace. “That’s how I approach my work: I make it a tool first, and then aesthetically pleasing and pretty after that. Because if it doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to, then it’s just a wedge-shaped piece of metal.” The feeling of holding a well-crafted knife in one’s hands was part of the draw when Mace became interested in antique American Bowie knives. “You might look through a book and see something and think, ‘Well, that’s an interesting piece.’ Then you make it and once it’s made and you’re as close to the

dimensions as you think you can get, and then you have it in your hand- Yeah, now I understand it!.” To ease people into the art form, beginner classes are offered to teens and adults. From there, students can choose classes that focus on knifemaking, hacksaw making, and cooking tools. On the latter, Mace says the process of making metal ladles and spatulas reveals a different feeling than purchasing one at a big retail store. “It’s more rewarding and it probably works a lot better, too,” he says. There are other classes that can help students really hone in on the technique that goes into beautifully crafted metallic arts, such as a certification class for the Artists and Blacksmiths Association of North America. “They’re designed for you to get your techniques down, your elements that you’re creating, whether it’s a square taper, round taper, particular shape item … you’re learning how to assemble things. I’m hoping it’s going to take off a little bit more.” While blacksmithing and bladesmithing may seem intimidating at first, Mace is there to create a fun environment where safety and comfortability around heavy equipment is guaranteed for all people. “I do get people coming in thinking that it’s this big guy swinging a hammer, but some of the best blacksmiths I know are not big, old burly men. It’s about finesse and understanding the mechanics of it. photo submitted You can move a lot of metal with a small Trish Doyle, Branford Garden Club member, designed the holiday swags at the Town hammer if you do it right. Anybody can do it. You can take a piece of nothing - just a Green this year. chunk of garbage on the shop floor and turn it into something beautiful.” Details on the various blacksmithing classes at Guilford Art Center can be found at https://guilfordartcenter.org/artclass/blacksmithing-classes/.

LEGAL NOTICE NORTH BRANFORD CONSERVATION AND INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES AGENCY The North Branford Conservation & Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency at its 12-3-25 Special Meeting took the following action: 1.

APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS: IWWA Appl. #2025-5, 40/50 North Street – Pond maintenance to include pumping water out of pond and removal of organic sediment. Owner: Nate Rose/Applicant: Alfred D. Rose

SCHEDULED SITE WALK FOR SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2025 AT 9:30 AM: Appl. #2025-4 – 90 Ciro Road

CONTINUED TO DECEMBER 17, 2025 MEETING: Appl. #2025-4, 90 Ciro Road – Site Plan modification to include an additional fourth building - 30’ x 50’ metal building with associated driveway, grading, septic, utilities and site work within the upland review area. Owner: Maclellan North Branford LLC/Agent: John Paul Garcia, PE, LS Stephen Scavo, Chairman

Branford Garden Club Greens Up the Town for the Holidays Press Release by Branford Garden Club

Every December the Branford downtown comes alive with holiday lights and fresh evergreen boughs. To enhance the classic ambiance on the town green, 66 fresh mixed green swags adorned with red ribbons were installed. These swags were meticulously designed and handcrafted by members of the Branford Garden Club and installed by the town Public Works staff. The Blackstone Library also embraced the festive spirit, displaying fragrant boughs and wreaths both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, the Garden Club’s

handmade wreaths and boughs adorned the historic Harrison House, Harbor Chase, the Community House, the BACA window, Willoughby Wallace Library, and the Counseling Center. This two-week endeavor, involving over 30 members of the Branford Garden Club, culminated in the creation of these festive decorations. This annual tradition, which spans two weeks, is just one of the ways the Branford Garden Club celebrates and honors its community. Throughout the year, the club actively distributes money, food, and gift cards to those in need. For more information, visit Branfordgardenclub.org,

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

SHORELINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMERCE Serving towns of Branford, Guilford, and North Serving thethe towns of Branford, Guilford, North Branford and Branford Beyond…

2614764 Boston PostPost Road,Road, Guilford, CT 06437 • 203-488-5500 • shorelinechamberct.com Boston Branford • 203-488-5500 • shorelinechamberct.com The Shoreline Chamber is the trusted business association of the CT Shoreline. Our mission is to foster the visibility and economic success of our member and communities.

CHAMBER SIGNATURE EVENTS AND NEWS UPCOMING EVENTS Nominations are Open for our Annual Excellence Awards!

PAST EVENTS Thank you to all who joined our 2025 Holiday BAsH at Woodwinds!

Mark your calendars! The Shoreline Chamber’s Annual Excellence Award is Tuesday, February 24th, and we can’t wait to celebrate the businesses, leaders, and community partners who make our Shoreline thrive. Know someone making a big impact? Nominate them for an Annual Excellence Award now on the event page of our website and help us shine a spotlight on the excellence happening all around us!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Shoreline Chamber’s Holiday BAsH. Your presence was such a great way to kick off the holiday season, and you all helped create such a wonderful and memorable event. We’re grateful for the support of our community, local businesses, and friends who came together to celebrate a wonderful year. A special thank you goes out to our Chamber members, whose continued commitment and involvement make events like this possible. Your dedication strengthens our business community and allows us to grow, collaborate, and thrive. We appreciate each of you and look forward to an exciting year ahead!

Member Ribbon Cuttings, Milestones and Celebratory Events

Congratulations to Guilford Dental Arts on their Ribbon Cutting!

Congratulations to Key2Green on their Ribbon Cutting! Key2Green brings a fresh vision for lawn care to the Shoreline — offering expert pet-safe and ecofriendly fertilization, weed and crabgrass control, tick-management, aeration, and so much more. Their owner-operator, Jay Pompano, is a licensed pesticide supervisor and built Key2Green out of a love for yard maintenance and a commitment to attentive, hands-on service. We look forward to seeing Key2Green grow and help neighborhoods across the Shoreline and beyond enjoy beautiful, vibrant lawns.

Guilford Dental Arts is committed to delivering outstanding, patient-centered dental care — from preventive and restorative treatments to cosmetic services provided with comfort, skill, and expertise. Their team includes prosthodontists, Dr. Lomartire and Dr. Patel, specializing in precision-driven treatments for restorative, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. We’re thrilled to welcome Guilford Dental Arts to the Chamber and look forward to supporting their continued growth and success.

Congratulations to Blur Barbershop on their Ribbon Cutting!

Blur Barbershop brings a fresh take on classic men’s grooming with a blend of modern style and traditional barber-craft. Their experienced barbers specialize in men’s haircuts, fades, clean beard trims, straight-razor line-ups, and hot towel shaves — offering precision and attention to detail in every cut. We were honored to celebrate this exciting milestone with the Blur Barbershop team! We were joined by owners and barbers Angelo Graziano and Joe DiPalma, and barbers Alex Blimberg and Alex Harvey. CT State Community College - Gateway 20 Church Street New Haven, CT 06510 Blur Barbershop 242 Main St Branford, CT 06405

Congratulations to Fresh Green and Proteins on the grand opening of their Branford location, and welcome to the Shoreline Chamber! Fresh Greens & Proteins offers clean, wholesome smoothies, salads, and bowls made to leave you feeling refreshed and energized. Their focus is real ingredients, simple proteins, and nutrient-rich greens so you can eat better, feel better, and live better. We were honored to celebrate this ribbon cutting with owners AJ Cooney and Mack Cianciolo and their team!

Welcome New Members to the Shoreline Chamber Maestra 7 Acorn Rd Madison, CT 06443 Lint Patrol LLC 177 Newton Rd Woodbridge, CT 06525

Guilford Neighbors Magazine & Media 5 Hart Road Guilford, CT 06437 Fresh Greens & Proteins - Branford 1100 W Main St Bldg 2 Branford, CT 06405

Key2Green, LLC. 22 Overlook Ln Guilford, CT 06437

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

Branford Messiah Rings Out Dec. 21 for Holiday Concert

A Second Chance for Resilient Scholars

Press Release by Branford Messiah

Continued from page 1

Branford Messiah, now in its 36th year, will perform Part I of Handel’s Messiah on Sunday afternoon, Dec. 21, at 5 p.m. in the First Congregational Church on the Branford Green. Under the baton of conductor Roy Wiseman, a professional chamber orchestra and professional soloists join over 35 community singers to share the joy of the season in this beautiful and festive space. Soloists for this performance will be Lielle Berman, soprano; Rebecca Ringle Kamarei, mezzo soprano; Alex O’Neil, tenor; and Chancelor Barabee, baritone. For more information, visit branfordmessiah.org. Wiseman has conducted at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival, the Kennedy Center, the Oregon Festival of American Music, the Goodspeed Opera House, the Yale Center for British Art, and the Palace Theater (New Haven). He currently serves as conductor of the Wesleyan University Orchestra, and is the founder and artistic director of both New World Consort, a chamber ensemble that specializes in American music, and Elite Syncopation, a ragtime/early jazz ensemble that tours nationally.

funding possibilities for doing so. “Four years ago, our Branford Rotary got a letter from a woman about a possible scholarship for someone of her age returning to school in pursuit of a more gratifying career,” said Andy Marlatt, chair for the Resilient Scholarship Committee. “This was something entirely unique. As a result we looked into it, and it wound up in our collaborating with CT State Gateway College in New Haven, to set up a scholarship fund for ‘nontraditional students’ seeking to take classes in fields like electronics, mechanics, nursing, water management, automotive, and similar areas. Gateway is more affordable than state universities and colleges and made for an ideal partner in pursuing the program. As a result, adults finding themselves working at jobs with limited or no real promise for a fulfilling future now have that opportunity.” photo submitted In short, adults have dreams too. Lielle Berman, soprano, and Alex O'Neil, Dreams they have not abandoned. And tenor. Branford’s newly formed Resilient Scholarship affords them a chance to pursue them. Doors open at 4:30; trumpet holiday car“We felt that people who want this secols start at 4:40. First Congregational ond chance at bettering themselves Church is at 1009 Main Street, Branford. through a program like the one we’re offering definitely deserve our support,” said Marlatt. Community Lens: A Program for North Branford Residents To qualify for scholarship funding Totoket TV Channel 16 presents Community Lens, a monthly program with a panel through the Branford Rotary’s new prodiscussion airing weeknights at 6:30 p.m. and available on YouTube (TotoketTV). This gram, an adult must be at least 26 years program informs and involves residents in North Branford town government, old and a Branford resident. There are no emphasizing transparency and encouraging voter participation in referendum votes. essays or interviews required. “These peoFor more information, contact 203-859-1512 or communitylensinfo@gmail.com. ple are already working hard at life and don’t need any more demands placed on them,” said Marlatt. “If this is an avenue they seriously want to pursue in bettering their lives, then we’re ready to back them.” LEGAL NOTICE And the Resilient Scholarship does indeed provide opportunities for a wide ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS range of participants. “We have immiTHE PINE ORCHARD ASSOCIATION grants in our program … scholars from PINE ORCHARD, CONNECTICUT Ecuador and Jamaica, as well as American born citizens. This is about people who just want that second chance and are At a meeting of the Pine Orchard Zoning Board of Appeals held on December 8, 2025, following a public hearing, eager to put in the time and the work to the Pine Orchard Zoning Board of Appeals made the following decisions and took the following actions: earn it,” Marlatt added, with the air of pride one might hear in the voice of a I. DENIED: The Application of Vincent and Maria Adinolfi, owners, 12 Pinewood Road, Branford, teacher or parent seeing a student tasting CT, to appeal the Stop Work Order issued by the Zoning Enforcement Officer, dated September 25, 2025.

II. GRANTED: The Variance request of Vincent and Maria Adinolfi, owners, relative to 12 Pinewood Road, Branford, CT, seeking relief from Section 6 of the Zoning Ordinance, side yard setback from 30’ required to 15’ proposed for construction of an addition, AA-1 Zoning district. James Killelea, President Zoning Board of Appeals

the success that comes only from the fruits of labor. “Last year we donated $5,000 that led to five scholarships … and this year we’ve donated $7,000 so far, leading to nine scholarships. The funds are distributed among our nontraditional scholars earning them.” Marlatt speaks glowingly of some past winners like Caitlyn Pasquine, the youngest at 28, and who had previously bounced around at a variety of different jobs, seeking her niche. Now, she has a real chance at discovering her true direction and destination in life; while onetime substance abuse victim, Jeffrey Givner, overcame his addiction and, through his resilient scholarship opportunity, has transcended the past with a future as an addiction counselor. (And a proud owner of a therapy dog.) “I post often on Social Media about all of our success stories,” Marlatt added. He is currently spreading the word to other Rotary Clubs about implementing nontraditional scholarships. “A woman who had read about our program, Barbara Colley, donated $7,000. So, anyone who would also like to contribute, we welcome all donations. No amount is too small.” Anyone interested in doing so may contact the Branford Rotary at: info@BranfordRotary.org. “Seeing the success of our resilient scholars is what makes it well worth it to all of us involved.” The great American playwright, Edward Albee had a memorable quote in one of his renowned works … one of definite relevance: “Sometimes a person has to go a long distance out of the way, in order to come back a short distance correctly.” Names of the 2025 Resilient Scholarship winners, in no particular order: 1. Jeffrey Givner 2. Prashama Neaupane 3. Uyen Nguyen 4. Christina Knowles 5. David Nazario 6. Caitlyn Pasquine 7. Stephanie Nettleford 8. Andrea Coello-Cardenas 9. Aayushka Gainju

Enjoy a Game of Duplicate Bridge A duplicate bridge game is held every Friday at 12:30 p.m. at the Joseph Trapasso Community House, 46 Church Street, Branford. The game is for beginner to intermediate players. A partner is not necessary to play. For more information, contact Rick Seaburg at 203-915-5987 or tillerjock@gmail.com.

Legals

DECEMBER 18, 2025

Legals

THE SOUND • CLASSIFIEDS • 15

Employment

Announcements Instructions

Instructions

Marine/ Boats

Employment Services

Automotive Financial

a d AD dea d l i n e : mFRIDAY o n d a yATa4 t PM 10 am DEADLINE: Animals

or Call 1-800-582-8296 Merchandise Merchandise

Pets PlaCe and your liner ad online at Legals

Service Directory and Classified Displayand/or Ads: 860.701.4412 Service Directory and Classified Display Ads: 860-701-4200 Email classifiedads@theday.com Go to Zip06.com, select your town and click on classifieds or call weekdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Shore Publishing reserves the right to reject any advertisement. Shore Publishing is not responsible for the content of any ad or Business consequences of any misprinted ads. Shore Publishing will rerun any misprinted classified ad. no cash refunds are available. Real Estate Directory

Instructions

Financial/ Accounting

Automotive

Employment

Automobiles

Driver

2005 PT CRUISER Mileage: 66,300 | Auto trans $4000 860-767-6514 —

M&J BUS INC School van drivers & monitors needed in the Old Saybrook & Waterford areas. Call Marie: 860-388-6782

Animals and Pets Wanted Automotive

JUNK CARS WANTED Title or No Title CA$H PAID ON SPOT 203-907-7766 —

Business

Directory place your classified online

www.zip06.com

Employment Services General Help SHOP CLEAN UP Local diesel repair shop is looking for a reliable shop clean up person. FT/PT Shoreline Diesel 860-664-4652

search &

HOME HEALTH AIDE Looking for Live-In Job to

The Town of Westbrook is seeking applicants for a full-time Union position (30 hours per week, $22.42 to $31.05 per hour) Assistant Tax Collector.

Boats

This position requires a thorough working knowledge of various computer programs: Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, QDS tax collector and DMV software. Prior experience in a municipal tax collector’s office is preferred but not necessary. The ability to learn computer programs will be required. Provides assistance to the public in person, email and phone. Ability to work independently with attention to detail. Minimum Qualifications Required: Graduation from high school plus specialized training and 9-12 months experience in general office work or equivalent combination of education, training and experience. A full job description is available in the First Selectman’s Office and on the Town’s website. The posting is open until filled. Please send cover letter and resume (marked confidential) to: John Hall, III, First Selectman Mulvey Municipal Center 866 Boston Post Road Westbrook, CT 06498 jhall@westbrookct.us

place

PROMOTE YOUR SERVICE OR BUSINESS To The Entire Shoreline!

Call 860-701-4412

online at www.zip06.com

Employment

Legals Brilliant Basement BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

Waterproofing, LLC

Brilliant Basement Basement Waterproofing Services Employment Waterproofing, LLC

Services 50 Years combined experience.

Egress Windows, Repair, Sump Pumps, Instructions BasementFoundation Waterproofing Services Pumps Eliminated in most homes. 50 Years combined experience. Crawl Gravity Drains, Landscaping EgressSpaces, Windows, Foundation Repair, SumpDrainage, Pumps, Gutter Downspout Drains • Mold Remediation Financial Pumps Eliminated in most homes. Crawl Spaces, Gravity Drains, Landscaping Drainage, Marine/ FREEtes • Mold Boats Don't justRemediation be smart, stimaDownspout Drains EGutter be brilliant! FREEtes Don't just be smart, stima ELegals be brilliant!

www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com HIC. 0653192 • CALL US Merchandise

860-598-8091 www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com Instructions 860-598-8091 HIC. 0653192 • CALL US

Real Estate

Employment Wanted

JOB OPENING TOWN OF WESTBROOK ASSISTANT TAX COLLECTOR

Financial

classified ads

Financial/ Accounting

Wanted to Buy

take care of the elderly. I have 19yrs exp., Excellent Marine/ Ref’s. 203-815-2690 —

PROMOTE YOUR SERVICE OR BUSINESS

Clothing OLD CLOTHES IN THE ATTIC OR EXTRA CLOSET? Real Estate I’m looking for vintage women’s clothing from the 1920s-1980s. Dresses, coats, belts, hats, anything special or unique. Happy to pay cash and give your old treasures a new life! Please call 203-530-0197

Rental

Repairs • Remodeling ALL TYPES OF BUILDING REPAIRS Repairs • Remodeling $50.00 per hour ALL TYPES OF BUILDING REPAIRS Carpentry • Doors • Locks $50.00 per hour Windows • Stairs • Closets Decks • Drywall • Painting Carpentry • Doors • Locks Windows Stairs Small •jobs are• Closets fine Decks • Drywall • Painting Jim 203-530-2670 LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590 Small jobs are fine

Jim 203-530-2670

LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590 Casanova Builders, LLC

Call (860) 701-4412

Joseph Casanova Jr.

Storage/ Warehouse

AUTO STORAGE

—

Climate controlled auto storage located In Essex CT area. 3, 6, and 12 month rentals available. Call Eric 860-662-6151

MR. FIX IT

BUILDING & REMODELING

HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTING

MR. FIX IT

Kitchens • Bathrooms HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTING Basement Kitchens • •Bathrooms Plumbing Electrical I Will Call Back! Basement Stephen S. Simonetti Plumbing • Electrical 203-245-2592 203-458-8222 Licensed I Will Call Back! & Insured www.mrfixitllc.com

203-245-2592 203-458-8222

www.mrfixitllc.com

Lic. #578530

Stephen S. Simonetti Licensed & Insured Lic. #578530

Since 1956

203-444-6297

Rental

www.zip06.com

Casanova Builders, LLC

Addition • Decks • Flooring • Attic/Basement Remodeling Finish Carpentry • Custom Ceramic, Marble & 1956 Since Granite Tile Work & Counter Tops • Total Custom Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling Interior & Exterior Painting Addition • Decks • Flooring •• Attic/Basement Remodeling Lic. #561417 ~ Insured ~ Work Guaranteed Finish Carpentry • Custom Ceramic, Marble & 203-444-6297 Joseph Casanova Jr. Granite Tile Work & Counter Tops • Total Custom Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Interior & Exterior Painting Lic. #561417 ~ Insured ~ Work Guaranteed

Rental

place your classified online

**WANTED** Firearms Single or Collections ______________________ Including military and related items. Federal firearms license. Appraisals. ______________________ Richard Pleines 860-663-2214

Merchandise

Real Estate

Wanted to Buy

WANTED TO BUY Old Records Purchased 12” LPs and 7” 45 rpm only. No 10” 78s. 203-710-9943

d239532 d239532

Announcements

• • Siding • Windows • Siding • • Gutters • Windows • Siding Repairs • Siding • Windows • Gutters • Windows 24MO 0% OR • Siding • Repairs Gutters • Siding Gutters $500 OFF • Windows Repairs • Windows Repairs 24MO 0% OR • Gutters • Gutters $500 24MO 0% OR 24MO 0% OR OFF 860 •860.230.0853 Repairs •$500 Repairs OFF OFF $500 RI www.jfkroofing.com 860 24MO 0% OR 24MO 0% OR * credit terms apply $500 OFF $500 OFF 860.230.0853 CT

Reg #0654527

Reg #06545

*credit t

Reg #0654527

Reg #43858

Reg #0654527

www.jfkroofing.com * credit terms apply

Reg #06545

*credit t

Reg #43858

16 • CLASSIFIEDS • THE SOUND

DECEMBER 18, 2025 BUILDING & REMODELING

Shoreline Deck Company, LLC Making Ideas Happen Additions, Bathrooms, Pergolas, Pool Houses, Pavilions, Outdoor Kitchens

ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS DOORS GUTTERS FAMILY TRADITION SINCE 1955 DECKS

860-552-6027

Please call for a free design consultation & estimate

203-453-2333

www.shorelinedeck.com | chris@shorelinedeck.com

HIC.0547261

Additions • Dormers • Decks Basements • Roofs • Rip Jobs Build Up or Build Out We Do It All!

Since 1981 38 Years Exp.

BRUCE STERLING Remodeling & Building

• Carpentry: Interior/Exterior • Drywall • Siding No Jobs • Decks Too Small! • Doors & Windows • Kitchens, Baths & Flooring • And More!

Cell (203) 915-5084

Lic. #541195 Insured • Over 30 Years Experience

T. Robert’s Construction, LLC From Design To Completion

Fully Insured

Lic #563264

(203) 507-6902 • Branford, CT

CLEANING SERVICES

Home & Business Cleaning info@geniemaids.com

J&P RESTORATION General Contractor J.A. Petrillo - Owner Roofing Remodeling Additions Kitchens Garages Masonry Decks Gutters

Siding Sheet Rock Bathrooms Paper Hanging Painting Plumbing Electrical Windows

203-982-5436 HIC.0560655

Free Estimates - References Over 10 Years Experience

ROBLES CLEANING SERVICE Jeisi Robles (203) 572-7483

HOUSES - CONDOS - OFFICES

E-mail: jeise24@hotmail.com

SKY CITY

HOME IMPROVEMENT, LLC DECKS KITCHENS BATHROOMS ADDITIONS CARPENTRY PAINTING

WINDOWS DOORS SIDING GUTTERS ROOFING

(203) 392-4516

Guilford, CT. Licensed & Insured

Free Estimates HIC # 0646127

DECKS

DRYWALL

DECK RESTORE

Seasons Greetings from

Sanding/Refinishing Softwash House Cleaning Decks/Hardwood Floors Decks Cleaned/Repaired/Sanded &Power Stained • Hardwood Floors Washing of Homes Patios & Walkways Power Washed Protect your investment, Free Estimates beautify your home.

203-996-4981 Brian

licensed /insured HIC #0678344

ELECTRICAL

Early Deadlines for Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 Issues SERVICE DIRECTORY ADS Tues., Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. CLASSIFIED LINERS ADS Wed., Dec. 17 at 4 p.m. and Tues., Dec. 23 at 4 p.m.

Daniel Brown Electric LLC • New Construction • Generators Chargers • Remodeling/ • Car Landscape Lighting Additions • Pools • Service Upgrades • Troubleshooting • Kitchens • Baths • Finished Basements

860-399-4444

CT License #199056-E1 Licensed & Fully Insured P.O. Box 221, Westbrook, CT 06498

Early Deadlines for Jan. 8 Issue SERVICE DIRECTORY ADS Tues., Dec. 23 at 5 p.m.

Marc Geoghegan

Community

License #ELC.0203098-E1 Fully Insured

CLASSIFIED LINERS ADS Tues., Dec. 30 at 4 p.m.

Remodeling/Additions Kitchens, Baths, Finished Basements Generators and Service upgrades Troubleshooting • Free Estimates

Call 860-701-4200

4gelectricct@gmail.com • fb.me/4GElectric

860.331.9901

in print every week & online every day at zip06.com 203-245-1877 Ext. 6130 860-701-4200

EXCAVATING

GUTTER CLEANING

CLUTTER IN THE GUTTER

EXCAVATION DEMOLITION & SITE PACKAGES Building Lots Cleared and Developed Site Excavation for New Homes, Additions & Garages Septic Systems, Utilities Trenching

The Original

FOUNDATIONS & CONCRETE WORK Foundations & Concrete Work Additions, Garage Foundations Barns, Slabs & Structural Piers Retaining Walls

Complete Site Work - Paving - Driveways Mulch, Stone, Screened Topsoil,

SEAWALL & DOCK CONSTRUCTION Seawall Masonry Repointing Boulder and Revetment Stone Dock Repairs & Pile Installations.

Sand & Gravel House Sites, Septic Systems, Demolition

Why Hire 3 Contractors When K.E.Braza Construction Handles The Entire Site Process?

Water Mains, Sewers 756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT

25 Year Family Business Proudly Serving Connecticut Shoreline

www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665

www.KEBrazaConstruction.com 203-530-7191

SEAMLESS GUTTERS PLUS

Gutter Installation • Gutter Guards Gutter Cleaning • Maintenance Program abguttersplus.com We do half-round, seamless gutters

Joe Scala

Fully Insured | HIC. 061885 References upon request

LANDSCAPING

Mejia’s Lawn Cut Services, LLC

All Aspects of Residential/Commercial Lawn Care * Spring & Fall Cleanups * Tree Work * Power Washing * Snow Plowing * Brush Removal * Gutter Cleaning * Stonework * Lawn Installations (Seed or Sod) & Maintenance * Planting, Pruning, Mulching, Trimming, Weeding * Weekly Lawn Cutting Available * Painting No Job Too Big or Too Small Call (203) 928-0241 today for your free estimate!

Scott’s Gutter Fully Insured Cleaning HIC #0634550

No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters

• We Demo We Dig and We Pour your Foundation 1 Contractor 1 Price • Make The Call This Fall, Get it Done Before Next Season Direct: 860-662-0124 | Office: 860-399-5290

GUTTERS

Owner/ Operator Scott Behler

Roof Repairs • Handyman Services Power Washing • Roof Washing Black Stains & Algae Removal Prompt Courteous Service, Done on Time

203-466-0520

Green Gloves L Gutters, LC

SEAMLESS GUTTERS

JUNK REMOVAL

LANDSCAPING

CHAMPLIN’S LANDSCAPING & EXCAVATION

Commercial & Residential

JUNK REMOVAL SERVICES

Locally Owned and Operated Family Business

• Installation • Repair • Cleaning • Roofing • Window Replacement • Remodeling • Gutter Gaurds • Siding

203-245-9448

SERVING MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW HAVEN COUNTY & FAIRFIELD COUNTY

GREENGLOVESGUTTERS.COM

HIRE A VETERAN

• General Waste Removal • Construction Debris • Sheetrock Demo • Shed and Deck Demo & Removal • Oil Tanks and Drums • Garage Cleanouts

We Donate & Recycle!

860-415-3313

• Fall Clean Up • Snow Plowing • Shrub Pruning • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding SENIOR DISCOUNT

• Fence Repair • Gravel Driveways • Excavator Work • Shed Demolition • Junk Removal

860-510-3509

Lic. # 0653900

203.727.6405

www.thecleanoutcompanyllc.com

Ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com

FULLY INSURED

• Landscaping • Painting • Mowing • Trimming • Masonry Service • Mulching • Gutter Cleaning • Powerwashing • Small Tree Removal • Fall & Spring Clean-Ups

LANDSCAPING

Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • CONDO • Irrigation Systems Installs/Maintenance • Lawn & Landscape Maintenance • Fertilizing & Tick Control • Retaining Walls • Architectural Pavers: Poolside & Patios • New Lawn Installations: Sod Installs/Hydroseed • Excavations & Drainage • Landclearing/Foundation: Dozer Site Work • Dumpster Services Serving the Shoreline Area Since 1996

Call today for consultation (860) 767-2811 www.sullivanlawnservices.com FERT #B2547

CT HIC #0606162 CT Lic# P1-0204385

NOW SERVICING THE SHORELINE AREA FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE Weekly Mowing Spring/Fall Clean Ups Aerating & Overseeding Pruning Mulching

Landscape Design & Installation Paver Patios & Walkways Retaining Walls Cobblestone Poolscapes Fire Pits Outdoor Kitchens Concrete Fencing CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

www.violalandscaping.com

Fully licensed HIC #0561037 & Insured

THE SOUND • CLASSIFIEDS • 17

DECEMBER 18, 2025

CELEBRATING OVER 41 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

860-635-1030 office@violalandscapingllc.com

18 • CLASSIFIEDS • THE SOUND

DECEMBER 18, 2025 MASONRY

OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP

SOSOLI’S

MOVING & HAULING

Father & Son Masonry Over 30 years experience Specializing In:

M AS O N RY, L LC HIC.0618942

Stone Walls • New Fireplaces Special Steps • Stone Design Swimming Pools • Sidewalks • Stucco Chimneys • Patio Bricks & Blocks Small & Large Jobs

10% OFF WITH THIS AD (exp. 4.30.25)

Specialized Masonry Work Owner on Every Job 30 Years Experience Free Estimates

Stonewalls, Seawalls, Special Steps, Patios, Sidewalks, Swimming Pools, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Belgium Block, Blue Stone Pavers, Stucco, Big & Small Jobs Welcomed We do it all! Serving the Shoreline with Pride Great Prices Italian Craftsmanship All Work Guaranteed

NEED SOMETHING MOVED? “No Job Too Small”

Will do Dump Runs also. Call Luke at

203-464-0444

Cell: 203-510-9162 - Jeff Office: 203-565-9079 - Jimmy

www.greatmason.com PLUMBING SERVICES

Commercial & Residential Interior/Exterior Painting • Power Washing - Staining Free Estimate/Fully Insured/Licensed CT HIC.0578520

203-483-5590 203-645-8717 Valentinopaintingllc@yahoo.com

NUMBING E WBoilers, I•NWater S TA L LWater AT I O NlSAIR O R pumps, RWell E PA pumps, IRS Water Heaters, l HEATING Boilers, Heaters, WellCONDITIONING Heaters • Well Pumps

SOFT WASHING R ReRgCoRCRogeR C Boilers, R Rampton C C Water Heaters, Well pumps, • House Washing

Leaking l GC NRBoilers, ITogeR AogeR EFOR Hwww.RogerCramptonLLC.com lC PLUMBING G NntnIooBppipes, UaaYEARS LRCC PGas l RRReeHEATING l AIR CONDITIONING C Rampton no m a R epiping oR pumps, R Rampton m C g ogR • Roof Cleaning ogeR CWater Rampton ttM ppm R g o eR Rampton Heaters, Well Well Tanks, Water ﬁltration, Faucets, OVER 20

860-434-2200 • Solar Panels C C R • Cedar Wash Leaking pipes, Gas piping 860-434-2200 860-434-2200 21281480420-21-P1P# #cicl iTl CTC

CTCTliclic# #P1-204812 P1-204812

ddeerruussnnii yylllluuFF

860-434-2200

218402-1P # cil TC www.RogerCramptonLLC.com

CT mlicoc#.P1-204812 CLLnotpmarCregoR.www

RogerCramptonLLC.com

2 V_70 9718 D CT lic # P1-204812

D817907_V2 218402-1P # cil TC

derusni ylluF

ROOFING • SIDING • WINDOWS

$500 Off

Complete Roofing, Siding or Window Estimate

Complete job with coupon. Expires day time of estimate.

CT Reg No. 00509027

CALL TODAY 203-623-9503 ShorelineRoofing.com

INC.

“Quality Roofing Since 1928” “Quality Roofing • Shingle RoofsSince 1928” Shingle Roofs• Leaders • Flat Roofs • Seamless Gutters Flat Roofs •••Shingle Roofs •Seamless Leaders Repairs • Skylights • Slate Repairs ••Flat Roofs •Gutters • Repairs ••Seamless • Skylights Leaders Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates SlateInsured Repairs• Licensed •Gutters Repairs ••Fully • Skylights

www.russoroofing.com Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates (203) 562-8077 • Slate www.russoroofing.com Repairs CT Reg No. 00509027 • Fully Insured • Licensed

Residential • Commercial (203) 562-8077 (203) 624-ROOF Free Estimates www.russoroofing.com • Fully Insured • Licensed

(203) 624-ROOF

PAYMENTS AVAILABLE!

BBB

derusni ylluF

moc.CLLnotpmarCregoR.www

Celebrating 30 yrs. of service with 15% Off All Year! New Roofs & Roof Repairs

A+ Rated

• Gutter Cleaning • Window Cleaning

www.RogerCramptonLLC.com rs, Water Heaters, CT Well pmup lleW ,sretaeH retaW ,srelioB 60-434-2200 licpumps, # P1-204812g•nLic #,sS1-390795 Conditioning Fully 0insured CT lic # P1-204812 Tanks, Water ﬁltration, Faucets, lﬁ retaW ,sknaT lleW 02i2no-4,istt3eidc4una-o0FC,6nro8IiiAtartwww.RogerCramptonLLC.com -434-06Air8860-434-2200 Call 203-318-0308 • whitegloveservicesct.com Installations snoitallatsn860-434-2200

INSTALLATIONS ON FACEBOOK. CT lic # P1-204812 gerCramptonLLC.com Leaking pipes,RECENT Gas piping gnipip D817907_V2 saG ,sepip gnikaeL nsured 218402-1P # cil TC derusni ylluF www.RogerCramptonLLC.com moc.CLLnotpmaCT rClicre#gP1-204812 oR.www 860-434-2200 ROOFING dewww.RogerCramptonLLC.com rusni ylluF 0022-434-068 CT lic # P1-204812 tpmarCregoRFully .winsured ww

c: 203.430.4194 • martinardolino@gmail.com

Lic.#538272 • Fully Insured

BUY A GIFT CARD TODAY. A O N S218O4Leaking PA Rpipes, IA E#rR SN L Llic TsnSP1-204812 edL L AT Iwww.RogerCramptonLLC.com 0R2-1RP E #g cin l TiCIp P1-204812 dA eru# iN yllIuFW E N .CGas aanlic rPiCk ee gRoLOR.w wOwI TA iSpmsaomcG ,LCsLeLnLpnopiping itSppRmgCT a red CT INSURED ly insured 218860-434-2200 4Heating 02-1FULLY P # cil TC and derusni ylluF www.RogerCramptonLLC.com od c.n For a00g2oCTn2t-plici4tm e-r0CH 3#a4P1-204812 6r8ergooFR.www Make their season shine - one clean surface at a time. Fully insured

Interior/Exterior • Minor Carpentry Popcorn Ceiling Removal Wallpaper Removal

ROOFING

INSTALLATIONS N NEW EW SSTA OORRREPAIRS RREEPA W IIN N TALLLLAT ATIIO ONNSSOR PAI IRRSS

Fully Fully insured insured

M.A. PAINTING

HARRISON

RogeR NCERampton W I N S TA L L AT I OSince N 1986 S1986O R RSERVICES ESERVICES PA I R S Since R

office: 203-245-7144 cell: 203-444-3465 dominic@GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com www.GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com

ROOFING

PLUMBING l HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING RogeR Rampton RogeR C ogeRC CRampton Rampton

insured # P1-204812 insured P1-204812 www.RogerCramptonLLC.com • Brick E PLUMBING W Fully IFully NPLUMBING S TAl SHEATING LRllLHEATING IGAT ANIPNIEOO N RSCONDITIONING RCIRN PA A IHLEpumps, RCTlCTlHLlicSGGlicA I UW Boilers, Water Well N AIR INOO IDO NHeaters, RIIAR AO GIN NT AEEH PLUMBING HEATING GGlIN lR IAIR N IN CONDITIONING TITIO D NC OOR CS llEGG IITTIA NNlI#IBBT ULIN PBM l T AIR I D O CONDITIONING A l N T A GMMS N LP E N ogeR n o t Rampton p m a R R e g EATING l AIR CONDITIONING Well Tanks, Water Faucets, NWell EW IIN SSTA LLLLAT IIO SNN RSISIAA OO PRERERRRERERPA Ofiltration, ISSIRN NSSO OIIfiltration, TAALLLLA A TSSN NIIo WE N Faucets, • Driveways Tanks, Water W N TA AT O S R P O PA R T T W OE WIBoilers, TIA LHEATING A TIpTN SlODHeaters, EsNNpN IOsRlRepipes, W Itpumps, EaHGas SOHNNrrITA IMO S O R R E PA I R S N N SL TA LIm LSWater AT RFREE IILeaking A P EmlO SW RuAIR O RWell SN EltN PA ITpiping RTA SLW LL AL TBlre SAT EUNLN ,sN pWater u860-434-2200 lHeaters, Heaters, W rWRW eICONDITIONING e aA lNiN oI IBBW LUMBING G l N O I C A G P Boilers, ,e p,rlWell ,epumps, sra rteeate eG epumps, tIaat W ,sE srreH ellisi,oorsBe Estimate Boilers, Water , s p m u p l Well e , s a e H r e t W , •P1-204812 Walkways • Boilers • Water n o i t a t filtration l i f r W • l i o B • L L ATWell Iwww.RogerCramptonLLC.com O NTanks, S O R R E PA I R S CT lic # Leaking pipes, Gas piping Well Water sttee cuu F,n Faucets, arrttlr lfirret etta aW W nak Tn llea WT lleW Well Tanks, s,n atafiltration, Fa tittafi W ,stogeR eTanks, cEstimate Water FWater ocfiltration, rnoo,tossitfor lWell Faucets, Wr,tR,essakkte,nW Water •,,Rampton Faucets ctm ufiae •aC asag eTH aio R CEpipes, ni,piping aeFpumps, R o Boilers, Water ,u spa upipes, lfiltration, lieGas rssaeepaFaucets, H ,lsleR B•lic # P1-204812 CT Heating gW nS ipS Ga se pand niikkaL aeeIL For Heating 860-434-2200 Leaking gGas nO pppiping ip GR ,,sO eR p iIipp n LLR Nnsured E WreI••tN Swww.RogerCramptonLLC.com TA Spumps RHeaters IsHEATING LA AT Pm IHeaters, Rpo R N N EGTrgNgesgPA A AeprSrNeeTLIlBtll& SW N E N• Decks Well pumps, H aFREE W ,LlLeaking lpipes, Well •ia Leaking p iiIip pipes •a m PLUMBING lO N,sB IeNCONDITIONING TtGas Ia DgO N Ie As,Esp Hk UW LP•I WHeaters, Leaking i p p s G p i k Well Tanks, ,srtg ee Water cnu FGiAIR n filtration, oOa rntO,ilsCkBoilers, fieaRpiping rAFaucets, eLiltp WITn nlauaGWater T lM leeW Water Heaters, Well pumps, • Fence Air Conditioning Installations 860-434-2200 0 0 2 2 4 3 4 0 6 8 • Well Tanks • Gas Piping g n i p i P s a G • s k n a T l l e W • Fully lic P1-204812 www.RogerCramptonLLC.com 3I T4gA-0nL6iL8kACTaTe N Einsured W I N S TA860-434-2200 L L AT I OConditioning NSSRO P ERRE PA R0OI0R2SS2N-4 SN I WEN Air ipIiA,pRsGas piping ,CsWell eLnpotriOppe L#m geR C Rampton n p C Reg•oTruck R Fleet Washing sLeaking pm Water uTp llpipes, lgeenW Heaters, rslelaemmWtGopumps, eliaoR BWater nks, Faucets, taWater WBoilers, ,sk,filtration, n a l W Tanks, filtration, Faucets, www.RogerCramptonLLC.com oa c.C.e LH atpumps, ra C reW ego gooRRt .,ws wrw www.RogerCramptonLLC.com cWell pmm Boilers, Water Heaters, ,spmup Well ,srLeLtnaoetH raertCarW ,sre.wliw ow B 860-434-2200 0 0 2 2 4 6 8 Installations Ductless Mini Splits HEATINGWell l AIR,sWell CONDITIONING G N Ia3 NWFaucets, O4,,IsTks-nI0 DaTn NlO C RlIlAeW l GNITAEH l GNIBMULP Tanks, Water , s filtration, t e c u a F , n o Faucets, i t a r t l fi r e t l e W Tanks, t e c u a F Water , n o i t a filtration, r t l fi r e t a W k a T aking pipes, Gas piping 860-434-2200 0 0 2 2 4 3 4 0 6 8 pipes, Gasgnpiping ipip ,seiptipsE gniE kLeaking aEeR LF ip gnikaFREE eLeaking L Estimate pipes, Gas piping estaaGm

Dominic Bosco

MARTIN ARDOLINO CTHIC#0638601

W I NPLUMBING S TAl HEATING LllLHEATING AT I Olll AIR N SCONDITIONING O R R E PA I R S PLUMBING HEATING AIR CONDITIONING LUMBING AIR CONDITIONING

Boilers, Water•Heaters, pumps, • Boilers Water Well filtration Well Tanks, Water filtration, Faucets, Well Tanks, Water filtration, Faucets, Faucets, Leaking Pipes • Water Filtration Well Tanks, Water filtration, ••Boilers, Water Heaters • Faucets ogeR Rampton Water Heaters, Well pumps,PRESSURE WASHING pipes, Gas piping Leaking pipes, Gas piping E W IogeR S TA LlLeaking LRampton AT N STanks O R E PA•ICement R S & Patios n o t pm aAIR R R eRg o •PLUMBING Faucets Well •N Well pumps •I•lO Leaking pipes HEATING CONDITIONING Leaking pipes, Gas piping Well Tanks, Water filtration, Faucets, Tanks Gas UMBING•NWell lESERVING G HEATING NII N IT860-434-2200 I860-434-2200 DLlLNTHE AIR OCI •ORCONDITIONING IN AS lOPiping GRNRITEAPA EHI RlS GNIBMU•LPTennis Courts W NO S TA AT SHORELINE

Connecticut Shoreline

Quality Work Since 1987

POWERWASHING

MBING l HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING

Gold Star Painting Specialists

PAINTING

RogeR CRampton RogeR CRampton Cell (203) 598-2524

HIC.0571018 Fully Insured Free Estimates

PAINTING

203-668-0833 office-203-468-9889 cell-

East Haven, CT 06512

SKYWAY

Residential

Restoration LLC

ROOFINGProfessionals

FINANCING Roofing / Siding / Gutters / Skylights / Windows / Doors AVAILABLE 0% Interest 1000’S OF SATISFIED HOMEOWNERS! 18 Months Have your project done the RIGHT way, 60 Months Low Interest with SKYWAY. FATHER & SONS OWNED & OPERATED

203-234-1906 | 203-671-1368 www.skyway-roofing.com

Licensed & Insured Lic. #0573204

Senior & Veteran Discounts

THE SOUND • CLASSIFIEDS • 19

DECEMBER 18, 2025 ROOFING

BENNY’S

A AboveThe TheRest Rest A Roof Roof Above RESTORATION,LLC

CT Lic #06032512 ROOFING & REMODELING, LLC Residential/CommercialCT•License New Roofs • Re-Roofs(All Types) #603258 CT License #603258

203-453-5571 203-453-5571 Family Owned & Operated

CT License #603258

Family Owned & Lic. #613241 Insured Financing Available Family/ Fully Owned & /Operated Operated

ROOFING

www.ENHRestoration.com www.ENHRestoration.com

ROOFING • SIDING • GUTTERS Lic. #613241 / Fully Insured / Financing Available

Fully Insured • All Work Warranteed Reasonable Reasonable Prices • 203-640-9820 Free Estimates Prices • Free Estimates

203-640-9820 bennysroofingremodeling@gmail.comA+ Rating

manolyroofing@aol.com 203-640-9820 203-640-9820 CT License #603258 manolyroofing@aol.commanolyroofing@aol.com

CT License #603258 CT Lic #06032512

CT License #603258

Rating A+A+Rating

A+ Rating

TREE SERVICES

TOP NOTCH TREE, LLC Landscape & Lawncare Services

• Full Service Tree Removal • Land/Lots Cleared • Brush Piles Chipped • 60’ Aerial Truck/Climbers • Stump Grinding

Lawn Mowing • Spring & Fall Clean-ups • Mulching • Pruning Tree Removal • Planting • Diagnosis • Treatments • Stump Grinding

We Make Tree Work Affordable

LANDSCAPE & TREE SERVICE A FULL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COMPANY

Roofing Specialists

Residential/Commercial • New Roofs • Re-Roofs(All Types) All Types of Chimney Flashing All Types of Flashing Work Seamless Gutters Demolition

All Types ofResidential/Commercial Chimney Flashing • All Types of Flashing Work • New Roofs Residential/Commercial • New Roofs • Re-Roofs(All Types)• Re-Roofs(All Types) •Demolition Seamless Gutters •Flashing Types of Chimney Flashing • All Types of Flashing Work All Types of ChimneyAll Flashing • All Types of Work • • Demolition Insured • All Work Warranteed Seamless Gutters Seamless Fully Gutters • Demolition Reasonable Prices • Free Estimates Fully Insured • All Work Warranteed • Reasonable Prices • Free Etstimates Fully Insured • All Work Warranteed

OWNER ON EVERY JOB

860-552-9376

(860)227-2774

RT &

Brian Miller

Over 20 Years Experience Clinton, CT

T REE REMOVAL L.L.C Affordable and Professional Tree Services

Tree Removal • Chipping • Storm Cleanup • Stump Grinding Shrub Trimming • Emergency Response • Line Clearance Certified

Free Estimates - Fully Insured - Competitive Prices

203-731-7710 • 1-877-669-1535

Same day call back. We accept credit cards. www.rttreeremoval.com • brian@rttreeremoval.com

24-Hour Emergency Service Available

860-526-2127

Roofing Gutter Cleaning EPDM Roofing Flat Roofs COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL COVONERESTORATION.COM

WATERPROOFING

First Time Customers!

WINDOW CLEANING

ROWELLCLEANING CLEANING ROWELL SERVICELLC LLC SERVICE S

SPECIALIZING IN WINDOW CLEANING, SPECIALIZING IN RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING

WINDOW CLEANING, CARPETS & FLOORS RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIALTel. CLEANING P.O. Box 589,

Madison, CT 06443

203-245-8647

203-245-8647 email. rcsllc64@gmail.com

39 ORCHARD PARK ROAD • MADISON

Basement Waterproofing Services Over 31 years experience

FOOTING DRAINS GUTTER DOWNSPOUT DRAINS CRAWL SPACES LANDSCAPING DRAINAGE GRAVITY DRAINS CRACK SEALING SUMP PUMPS PUMP INSPECTIONS Lic & Ins. FREE Est.

860-639-7935

Finished with your newspaper?

Help us

keep the shoreline green by recycling this paper.

SUDOKU

Schedule 12-Point Sump Pump Service

SUDOKU

$59Service CT.SumpPumpGeeks.com Only

Fun By The Numbers

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

Last Week’s Answers

Here’s How It Works:

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

THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025 • SPORTS

SBranford ports Youth Cheerleading D16 Team Claims National Title The Sound Valley Courier Thursday, December 18, 2025

By Jennifer McCulloch Special to the Sound

Oriana Orsini has been coaching with Branford Youth Cheerleading (BYC) for nearly eight years, serving as the head coach for BYC’s D16 Level 4 team this season. The team is made up of 8th- to 11th-graders, including Angelina Biehl, Olivia Gagner, Gia Gambardella, Ava Glick, Grayce Gomes, Lila Long, Katherine MacLeod, Cassie Mckittrick, Caleigh Moran, Jane Voets, Nicole Wells, and Devina Vaicunas. “I’ve spent nearly a decade watching athletes grow, find their confidence, and fall in love with this sport the way I did,” said Orsini. “This is a group of driven, passionate athletes who are truly such a special mix of ages, strengths, and personalities.” BYC D16 competed at five competitions this season, earning first place at every single one. The season culminated with Nationals, with Branford being crowned champions. “This season was full of milestones — new skills, stronger bonds, and moments where everything just clicked — and ending our year by coming home from Nationals as National Champions was the ultimate dream come true,” said Orsini. “Watching their confidence, consistency, and energy build with each event was incredible. Day two at Nationals is a moment I’ll carry with me forever. Watching them go out there and perform with every ounce of heart they had — and then seeing them run off the mat smiling, proud, and knowing they left everything out there—meant more than any title. As a coach, of course you dream of wins, but those proud, genuine smiles at the end of a routine — that’s what stays with you long after the season ends.” Orsini is grateful for the support of her assistant coaches — Molly Brunson, Diana Vaicunas,

Photo courtesy of Oriana Orsini

The Branford Youth Cheerleading (BYC) D16 Level 4 team capped off a very successful season with a national title.

and Jill Gailloux — who are impressive. Their dedication to “amazing coaches who inspire me the league, the sport, and each every day.” other is admirable.” Vaicunas noted that the D16 While the team doesn’t have team had multiple cheerleaders captains, several athletes served who were new to competing at in leadership roles with BYC as Level 4. As a longtime volunteer junior coaches for the younger with BYC, Vaicunas has seen teams. Devine Vaicunas worked many of the athletes grow with the D14 team, Lina Biehl throughout their time with the and Lila Long worked with the sport, with many participating D12 team, Olivia Gagner worked since 1st or 2nd grade. with the D10 team, and Grayce “These girls worked hard•and Gomes and Caleigh Moran juggled high school, other sports, worked with the D8 team. junior coaching, work, and more,” As head coach, one of Orsini’s said Vaicunas. “They got to responsibilities is to choreograph Nationals and competed against the team’s routine. She works to one of the best teams in the create a routine that highlights nation and broke their•winning each of the athletes on the team. streak by taking first in the Orsini not only carefully connation. Being the first D16 and siders the music selection, looking the first level 4 team BYC had, for something that “lights them they were nothing short of up from the second it starts,” but

the choreography as well. “I look at their strengths, their personalities, and even the skills they’re still working toward — whether it’s added tumbling, creative transitions, or motions that strengthen our score, I build the routine around who they are right now and who they’re growing into,” said Orsini. “I want every athlete to feel seen, included, and challenged in the best way. This season was more than just reps and conditioning. It was conversations, corrections, confidence-building moments, and learning how to trust the people standing next to you. The girls put in so much work behind the scenes—long practices, lastminute changes, injuries, and moments where they pushed past frustration and doubt to get bet-

ter for each other. More than anything, I want them to not just perform, but to feel those two minutes and 30 seconds—to enjoy it, to live in it, and to walk off the floor knowing they gave everything they had.” Even though she didn’t grow up in Branford, cheerleading has always played an integral part in Orsini’s life. Her mother owns a dance studio in Branford, and Orsini got involved in coaching in town while she was still in college. In addition to the support she received from her assistant coaches, Orsini noted that another group that has been instrumental to her team’s success is the athletes’ families. “Joining this league truly felt like such a blessing, like finding a second home I never expected — the families here are incredibly supportive, and the community rallies behind these athletes in a way that still amazes me,” said Orsini. “To the parents, thank you for every ounce of trust, encouragement, and support throughout the years. None of this would be possible without you.” Orsini has worked with many of the athletes since the beginning her coaching career with BYC. Early on, her team made a trip to Nationals, and she is proud that she was able to return to Nationals with them, coming home with a title. “This team holds such a special place in my heart,” said Orsini. “Most of these girls were the first athletes I ever brought to Nationals early in my coaching career, and now I’ve had the privilege of standing beside them as they experience some of their last Nationals with this league. That full-circle moment is something I’ll cherish forever. My athletes are the reason I am the coach I am today. Thank you for pushing me, inspiring me, and giving me some of the most beautiful memories I’ll ever have. You made this season unforgettable.”

SPORTS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Hand Girls’ Ice Hockey Co-op Embraces Development and Competition By Zachary Halas Special to The Sound

The Daniel Hand girls’ ice hockey co-op team is taking charge and heading into the current season with a lot of optimism and excitement. After a campaign last year that saw the squad loaded with younger, more inexperienced talent, the athletes are ready to make a mark on the ice this winter. Last year was considered a rebuilding year for the Tigers, which are made up of students from Hand, Branford, H-K, Cromwell, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and Valley Regional High School, due to the number of seniors who graduated. The focus was on assessing the roster and building a solid foundation for the future. This winter, Head Coach Greg Thompson and the Tigers are looking to develop the younger talent on the club with the assistance of the experienced senior captains, who are there to help acclimate the new players to the team’s overall play style and philosophy. “They are excited,” Thompson said. “We got four to five freshmen that seem to be kinda jibing. They are excited, they are very excited, they think this year is going to be very competitive, and they want to produce. Last year, we took a big hit and lost a lot of seniors, a bunch of girls went to prep school, so it was kinda like a rebuilding year. They see that the rebuilding from last year is gonna go into this year. We have four seniors, and I think next year, we are having about the same amount, four to five freshmen coming in next year.” Hand has six players from last year who are returning to the program, including four seniors who are captains. Thompson highlighted seniors Brooke Ouel-

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound

Chloe Monaghan will be relied on as a strong and experienced leader this winter to help mentor the underclassmen on the Hand girls' ice hockey co-op squad.

lette (Westbrook), Daniella Spaniotis (Cromwell), and Maggie DiNapoli (H-K) who will be taking on expanded defensive roles during the season. Underclassmen Olivia Albino (Hand) and Savannah Johnson (Branford) are expected to make a large impact this season, with Johnson being one of last season’s top scorers alongside fellow underclassman Ana Milne (Branford).

Ice leadership

DiNapoli, Chloe Monaghan (Hand), Ouellette, and Spaniotis will be serving as the squad stewards this winter. They will all be expected to step up into strong leadership roles on and off the ice. With the team consisting of a large number of underclassmen and a handful of experienced seniors, one of the main goals the Tigers are striving for is to develop cohesion among the athletes and instill a winning mindset into the less experienced hockey players. “One thing with the hockey is

that they all kinda know each other,” Thompson said. “If they haven’t played together in their programs, they have played against each other, or even during school, everyone has been kinda bonding with everyone, you know, even during practice, some of the other seniors try to get the freshmen and sophomores to try and buy into how we kinda play.” One of the things Thompson emphasized is the idea of freshmen stepping up into roles this winter that have typically been unfamiliar to them. Having new players thrusted into unfamiliar positions will be critical for the squad’s overall development, as well as that of each individual athlete. Additionally, it will help each player to gain more knowledge of the overall high school game. If everyone is constantly learning and developing, Thompson will see that as a big win for his club. “I would say just to have everyone be able to play any position, and in any circumstance. If a

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound

Daniella Spaniotis is serving as a captain this year for a Hand girls' ice hockey co-op team looking to do damage on the ice.

defender can play a wing, or center, or anything, that is success right there,” explained Thompson. “Also develop a hockey sense - hockey sense is huge. That’s our main goal, as long as they are producing, having fun, and being good kids. They are terrific to coach, and I really enjoy it. We don’t have any drama really.” The Tigers’ first game this season was at Guilford on Dec. 9, and Hand lost 4-3 in overtime. Then, on Dec. 13, the team hit the road to Avon and took a tight 2-1 loss. Despite falling short in the first two contests, there are still positives to take away. Hand’s first two goals of the campaign were scored by freshmen, who achieved their first goals of their high school hockey careers. “That game showed what we are looking to do this season,” Thompson said. As Thompson looks ahead to the rest of the winter, he and the Tigers are looking forward to some competitive Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC)

matches, including against the likes of Hamden. “We always look forward to everybody in our SCC competition,” said Thompson. “We have Hamdem coming up, we have West Haven/Sacred Heart. They are always competitive - we either beat them or lose, and if we do lose, it is not by much. We play Hamden on Tuesday, so we are looking forward to that.” Thompson emphasized how the games are always competitive and provide great learning opportunities for the team, and the community showing support is vital to the group’s overall success. “All the girls enjoy having a big crowd. That is a part of high school sports, support of classmates and parents. Just fill the stands,” Thompson said. “I feel that girls’ sports don’t get the recognition that boys’ sports do. The more that people recognize it, I think that is what the people should be doing.”

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • SPORTS

Madison Hoop Dreams Winter Basketball Camp By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor

On Monday, Dec. 29, Tuesday, Dec. 30, and Wednesday, Dec. 31, Madison Hoop Dreams (MHD) will offer three days of basketball camp. Each day features skill development, competition, and fun at H-K Middle School (451 Route 81). The camp is for players in grades 3 to 8 and is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Players are encouraged to register early to ensure a spot. The limit is 90 campers, and MHD will draw from over 15 towns. MHD plans to have three leagues to provide ageappropriate competition, and all of the programs are co-ed. Each day starts with 45 minutes of skill development. Then, campers will have fun participating in competitive basketball games for the remainder of the day. During the games, the coaches give instruction to help each player improve their

knowledge and understanding of the game. This is an excellent opportunity for all players to improve their skills and confidence for the basketball season. The cost is $60/day for the six-hour camp. However, teams are encouraged to attend together. If there are three or four teammates attending, MHD offers a discounted price of $55/player each day. For five or more teammates, the cost is $50/day. One of the parents should text Coach Bill Barker with the names of the teammates attending (203-494-6905). If possible, the program will have teammates on the same team. However, trades may be necessary to balance the competition. For more information and to register, please go to www.madisonhoop dreams.com. If you have any questions, please call or text Barker at 203-494-6905, or email him at wab6933@gmail.com.

Schedules BRANFORD b

Friday, Dec. 19: vs. Lyman Hall at 7 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 19: at East Haven at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22: vs. Sheehan at 6 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

NORTH BRANFORD b

Saturday, Dec. 20: vs. Wright Tech at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23: at Morgan at 4:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 18: at Branford at 3:15 p.m. (scrimmage)

Monday, Dec. 22: vs. Morgan at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 18: at Branford w/ Lauralton Hall at 3:15 p.m. (scrimmage)

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

Boys’ Indoor Track

Girls’ Indoor Track

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound

Jessica Radziunas scored 18 points in Branford girls' basketball's 51-25 win vs. Westhill on Dec. 12.

Branford Girls’ Basketball Wins Big in Season Opener Jessica Radziunas scored 18 points each. Stella Andresen added five points, and Erica Chiechi added three. Kendall Fagan, The Branford girls’ basketball team Talia Tamsin, and Juju Pantani knocked opened the season at home vs. Westhill on in two points each, and Addie Guandalini Dec. 12 and won 51-25. Ellie Meyran and scored one. By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor

Boys’ Hockey

Saturday, Dec. 20: at Watertown-Pomperaug-Holy Cross at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 20: at Guilford at 9 a.m.

HIGH

Tides BRANFORD Dec. 18 to Dec. 24

Wrestling

Day 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

A.M. 9:47 10:27 11:05 12:17 12:57 1:39

P.M. 10:20 10:59 11:38 11:44 12:24 1:05 1:49

SPORTS • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Need Help with Challenging Children? Struggling to understand your child's behavior? National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Shoreline and Guilford Youth and Family Services are offering free Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) classes. CPS is a non-punitive approach to helping adults care for challenging children of all ages, grounded in 50 years of neuroscientific research. The class runs for six weeks, starting Thursday, Jan. 8, through Thursday, Feb. 12. Sessions will take place on Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. via Zoom. Registration is required. To register, email DivinnaSchmitt@gmail.com. For more information, text Divinna Schmitt at 860876-0236 or visit ThinkKids.org.

Spectrum Holiday Show: The Art of Dreaming Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, hosts its holiday show, The Art of Dreaming through Saturday, Jan. 10. The gallery showcases representational and abstract art in all mediums—including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media—that explore the many dimensions of dreaming. Spectrum’s artisans store also offers fine crafts in wood, ceramic, pottery, glass, paper, fabric, jewelry, and more. In addition, the gallery has handmade ornaments in its six-foot holiday tree and seasonal items in all mediums. For more information, call 860767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org..

Choral Scholarship Program for High School Students High school students are invited to audition for a place in The Anglican Singers, artists-in-residence at St. James Episcopal Church in New London. The choir is dedicated to preserving the English choral tradition of choral evensong. Selected singers will rehearse weekly from September through May in New London, receive instruction from Music Director Simon Holt, and sing alongside experienced vocalists. The group performs up to eight services and concerts during the season at St. James Episcopal Church, 76 Federal Street, New London, and at venues from Mystic to New Haven. Students accepted into the program must pass an audition with Holt and will receive a $500 stipend toward voice lessons or relevant training. Positions are open in the soprano, alto, tenor, and bass sections. For more information or to audition, email Simon Holt at smo.artisticdirector@yahoo.com.

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

• Real Estate Transactions

• Education and School News & Updates

• Living Features – Arts, Culture, Recipes & Local Events

• High School Sports & Athlete of the Week Profiles

• Letters to the Editor

• Local Politics & Government News

• Obituaries and Public Notices

While delivering news free of charge is our goal, it is costly. Unlike larger media outlets, we rely heavily on the support of readers like you. We are reaching out to ask for your continued support to keep Shore Publishing thriving and independent. In 2015, we launched our Voluntary Pay program to help sustain our mission and enhance our resources for even better coverage. Due to the evolving media landscape and rising production costs, we now seek your voluntary contribution to help sustain our publication. Your donation will directly support printing and editorial work, continuing to maintain our editorial independence. Thanks to your contributions, in 2024, we donated $40,150 worth of advertising space to several non-profit organizations, including Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries and the Community Foundation of Middlesex County. These donations allowed these vital organizations to promote fundraising events that support their initiatives. We appreciate each of our donors and invite you to make a difference. If you value our weekly product, please consider contributing. We understand everyone’s financial situation is unique, and any gift—large or small—helps us continue delivering the local news that matters. To contribute to our Voluntary Pay program, please visit www.zip06.com/voluntarypay or complete and return the form below. You can also scan the QR code below and help us reduce our costs by donating electronically. For questions or more information about your contribution’s impact, please contact us via phone or email. Regardless of your decision to donate, we will continue to deliver your paper each week. It is our privilege to keep providing you with local news, ads, and information. To remain compliant in our partnership with USPS, please complete the form below or visit www.zip06.com/subscribe. Your request to receive your community newspaper is valid for three years and enables us to provide cost-effective and efficient delivery via mail. Thank you for your support of Shore Publishing. Together, we can ensure our community remains informed and connected. Sincerely,

If you would like to contribute to our Voluntary Pay program, please complete and return this form to: 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Or donate online at www.zip06.com/voluntarypay

President & Publisher, The Day & Shore Publishing Companies

Name: Phone: Address: City:

State:

Zip:

Email: Date

Donation Amount: $ YES, continue to send the local newspaper each week to my home address (Local delivery only) If you have an address change, please complete and return this form so there is no interruption in delivery.

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • LIVING

Christmas in the Philippines: It’s About Faith, Friends, and Family By Maria Caulfield Living Editor

It’s quite literally on the opposite side of the world; take a globe with the United States facing you, then spin it 180 degrees, and somewhere in that region in the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find the Philippines. The time zones also indicate its distance—in the spring, when the United States observes daylight saving time, Philippine time is 12 hours ahead. So, midnight in the U.S. East Coast is noon in the Philippines. Occasionally mistaken as an island, the Philippines is an archipelago with a whopping total of 7,641 islands with three main regions: Luzon in the north, Visayas in the central region, and Mindanao down south. I boarded two plane rides over some 20 hours to get to Manila, the capital and the largest metropolis in Luzon and in the country. My parents and most of my siblings live in different cities within the borders of Manila. Door-to-door and including the wait time, the trip takes at least 24 hours, a journey I say is not for the faint of heart. But traveling to the Philippines to spend the Christmas season with family is well worth the trip. Although my trips don’t always last through Dec. 25, I get the meaning and essence of Christmas by simply being with family around the season, when the Christmas spirit comes alive. Christmas in the Philippines is not a celebration of a day or a week. It is a season far longer than that. While Americans debate whether Christmas displays in stores and on streets before Thanksgiving is too early, there is no such discussion among Filipinos. Thanksgiving is rooted in a historical event in the United States, and so for the Philippines—though a predominantly Catholic country—no such celebration of gratitude exists. Hence, Christmas does not come on the heels of a major holiday marked by family reunions. Instead, once the ‘ber’ months begin (that’s September), Filipinos start hearing Christmas tunes played over the radio, in TV

Photo by Mike Angeles

The author's niece, Isabelle, and nephew, Miggy, in their younger years in their home in Manila at Christmas

Photo by Mike Angeles

Christmas lights and ornaments are put up early at Bag of Beans, a popular restaurant and coffee shop in the Philippines known for its thematic decorations.

commercials, and in live performances. Churches, stores, streets, and even entire residential subdivisions glow with Christmas trees, glimmering lights, religious Nativity scenes, and animated holiday displays. The country also does not experience four seasons. Rather, it has the rainy monsoon season that begins April or May and runs through October, and the drier months spanning November to March. The months of November to February tend to also have cooler weather, though December may experience the fluke of some hot days.

Christmas Day hit a hot and humid 90 degrees years ago when I brought my husband and two young boys for a Philippine vacation. No matter for my boys—they ran around the yard, sweat dripping down their faces but happy to give chase to their cousins and delighted to ignite some sparklers typically not allowed in my household in the U.S. Part of the country’s Christmas tradition is what is called Simbang gabi, literally translated as “night Mass.” The term is a misnomer because Mass is held not in the nighttime hours but just before dawn for nine consec-

Photo by Mike Angeles

Photo by Maria Caulfield

The reason for the season: The birth of Jesus is depicted in Nativity scenes that are common in Philippine homes and churches weeks before and after Christmas Day.

On a warm Christmas Day in the Philippines, the author's son, Justin, runs around the yard and is held back for a brief rest by his cousin, Miggy.

utive days in the lead-up to Christmas. Among Catholics, it’s a novena of Masses in anticipation of the nativity of Jesus; Filipinos literally and figuratively rise to the occasion from Dec. 16 to Dec. 24 and attend Mass in their Sunday best. It’s a tough practice to follow—as I can attest—and I applaud those who have completed the nine consecutive dawn Masses. Growing up in the Philippines, I tried to keep with the practice year after year; the longest I could go was four or five consecutive Masses. Gatherings outside churches usually take place after each predawn Mass. As the sun begins to rise, friends and families share an early morning meal with different rice cakes: bibingka (a delicious rice cake topped with butter, cheese, and slices of hardboiled salted egg and cooked in a shallow terracotta bowl with heat from above and below), suman (sweetened glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves and sprinkled with sugar or drizzled with coconut caramel), and puto bumbong (steamed purple rice slathered with butter, sugar, and grated dried coconut). The food is paired with hot chocolate called tsokolate or ginger tea called salabat. For those who want a more

savory dish, a Filipino-style rice and chicken congee flavored with ginger and garlic called arroz caldo is real comfort food in the cooler early morning hours. Aside from the dawn Masses, Filipinos typically attend the Advent Masses on the four Sundays that precede Christmas. In my teenage years and early 20s, I sang with the church choir on both the Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses. It allowed me to deepen my faith, feel more involved with the church and community, and connect with friends, especially during the Christmas season. Apart from Christmas hymns in churches and songs over the radio and TV, Christmas carols are often heard outside homes when street children go house to house to sing popular holiday jingles. Though not always in tune and with hardly any practice, the children would come to our home to give an amusing—yet endearing—performance as they happily belt out their songs accompanied by bells and tambourines to collect a few pesos before running off to the next house. In my family, Christmas Eve is a boisterous affair. Growing up with seven siblings along with aunts, uncles, cousins, and See Christmas page 25

LIVING • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Calendar for the Week of December 18, 2025

FRIDAY, DEC. 19

For more Life & Style stories, visit our website, Scranton Library Friends Annual Meeting: 10 a.m. E.C. www.zip06.com. To submit events for the calendar, Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by Scranton Library Friends. Attendees can email news@shorepublishing.com. meet board members and learn about past and planned activities for the Friends. For info, contact 203-589-8303 or chas.reese2@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, DEC. 18 Book Club: Noon to 2 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library Community Room, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Book: The God of the Woods: A Novel by Liz Moore. For info or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Winter Solstice Craft Workshop: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For high school-aged teens. Part of GAC's drop-in art club. Free. No prior registration or Guilford residency required. For info, call 203453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Red Cross Blood Drive: 12:45 to 6 p.m. St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1382 Middletown Ave., Northford. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

Solstice Celebration: 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features family-friendly stories, crafts, and activities. For families with children ages 6 and up. Participants are advised that one of the crafts involves peanut butter. For info or to register (required), call the library at 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Make Your Own Snow Globe: Two sessions: 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. and 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For children ages 5 and up. All supplies provided. Arrive 15 minutes before the program starts. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-8722 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com. Decorate a Gingerbread House: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For children ages 5 to 12. Each child will receive a graham cracker house, frosting, and candy to create a "gingerbread" house. For info or to register, call 203-4840469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Living Nativity: 6 and 7 p.m. Lutheran Church of Madison front lawn, 9 Britton Ln. Features a cast of performers, the church choir, and live animals from Tripledale Farm in Guilford. After each 20-minute program, guests are invited indoors for free hot cocoa and cookies. Children are welcome. For info, call the church at 203-2454145 or visit lutheranchurchofmadison.com. Ireland with Michael: A Celtic Christmas: 7 p.m. Shubert Theatre, 247 College St., New Haven. For info or tickets, call the Shubert Box Office at 203-562-5666 or visit Shubert.com.

FRIDAY, DEC. 19 AND SATURDAY, DEC. 20 Who Sleighed Santa? A Holly Trolley Musical Mystery: Three rides per night at 7 p.m., 8 p.m., and 9 p.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Cost: $29 for general admission, $49 for VIP, which includes priority seating and a souvenir. Service fees apply. Advance purchase tickets only. For info or tickets, visit shorelinetrolley.org/programs.

SATURDAY, DEC. 20 Letters to Santa: 10 a.m. to noon RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a drop-in activity where children can write letters to Santa using provided stationery and coloring supplies. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. Allis-Bushnell House Open House: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Allis-Bushnell House Museum, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Visitors can explore the museum and view the exhibit, A Snail-Mail Holiday: Selections from the MHS Collection of Greeting Cards in the tearoom. The MHS shop offers a variety of Madison-themed gifts. Free admission but donations are welcome. For info, visit madisonhistory.org. Drop & Shop Art Workshop: Noon to 2 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Young artists explore holidaythemed art projects while parents have time for holiday shopping. Cost: $25; $22.50 for members. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org. See page 26

Christmas in the Philippines: It’s About Faith, Friends, and Family Continued from page 24 grandparents, I have vivid memories of large gatherings around a Christmas tree decorated with festive balls and lights. However, our attention was not so much on the decorations and lights on the tree as on the dozens of presents that lay beneath. As children typically do, we would feel and shake each present, eager to guess what each wrapped package held. Before we could open our gifts, our family would go to the traditional midnight Mass—another loose term because the Mass often takes place a few hours before midnight to allow families to return home

for noche buena, or the traditional Christmas Eve feast. My mother would dress up our large oval table in a red table cloth and layer it with a white table textile crocheted by my grandmother that allowed the crimson color to show through. The table would be laden with ham or lechon (a whole roasted pig), pancit (noodles with vegetables and chicken or pork), queso de bola (Edam cheese formed into a ball), relyeno (filleted milkfish), lumpia (spring rolls), various stewed dishes, and several desserts. As children, we would finish our meal ahead of the adults, eager to get to the presents. It’s fairly common for my family to

get to that exciting part of opening Christmas gifts after the clock strikes midnight and we joyfully greet each other, “Merry Christmas!” There was no order on who opened presents first. As soon as we all gathered in the living room, we would search under the tree for our presents and excitedly unwrap each one. Neighbors always knew when we were done with our noche buena and started opening gifts with our loud laughter and celebration. Now in their 90s, my parents have relegated the Christmas arrangements to my siblings, who organize the Christmas family reunions as a way of passing on some of

the traditions to the next generation. Although slightly different from the counterpart celebrations in the Philippines, the Christmases I celebrate now with my family members in the U.S. carry many similarities. Many of us gather at my aunt’s house in Maryland to be with close friends and family members. Many still attend Christmas Eve Mass, and we all share the traditional noche buena feast. And yes, Christmas gifts still abound in the living room. At the stroke of midnight, we all give each other celebratory greetings of “Merry Christmas,” followed by the opening of gifts and much festive laughter.

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • LIVING

A Holiday Memory: The Wrap & Rap By Liz Egan Special to Living

One of the special memories I have of the holidays is the years I spent between 1987 and 2000 visiting my mother on Long Island and wrapping her gifts for my siblings, their spouses, and children, while she shared stories of my childhood and the history of my family. We called these weekends the Wrap & Rap. Although I grew up in a very large family—the 11th of 15 children—by the time I was a few years out of college, my mother was living at home alone. My father had passed away a year after I graduated. My older siblings had families of their own, and my younger siblings were just starting their post-college careers. I was a nonprofit arts administrator, divorced at the time, and living alone in Connecticut. On Friday of the second weekend each December, I would travel by ferry to Long Island after work. My mother and I organized the dining room table with gift wrap, scissors, cellophane tape, tissue paper, recycled gift boxes, bows, and curly tie ribbon. Down from the closets and under the beds came all of the shopping bags of presents that my mother had purchased all year long. She shopped throughout the year because with the sheer numbers—15 children, most with spouses, a growing number of grandchildren—and a limited budget, doing it all in a few weeks before Christmas was not a logistical option. Throughout the year, when something caught her eye, she bought it. In my childhood, my mother and siblings and I attended many church fairs. My mother did a lot of holiday shopping there purchasing handmade ornaments and white elephant treasures. Special gifts to her working daughters allowed her to frequently shop at her favorite store, Loeh-

Photo courtesy of Liz Egan

Photo credit: Liz Egan

The author's mother, Virginia Bermel

Wrapped presents under the Bermel family Christmas tree

mann’s. Toys and games for a range of ages and her own hand-knit mittens and hats filled dozens of shopping bags. She didn’t always know who she bought what for, and part of the special fun of the Wrap & Rap was assigning gifts to individuals. My mother manned the lined pad, spacing names by family—her child, their spouse, their children—until all the names were listed. I would pull a gift from the bag, and she would say for whom she intended to give the gift or we would decide together. Then, she would write it down next to the person’s name until everyone was accounted for. Usually, she had created a special family gift for all of us, like the year she made a dozen wreaths from the grape vines in our backyard or the year she made handsewn quilt Nativity wall hangings. I would always wrap those gifts first in a gift box,

with her special note. Each family gift would also have one of the handmade ornaments tied to the curly tie ribbon on top. These larger gifts started the piles, set all about the room, by family, that would later be packed into cardboard boxes and addressed, ready to ship by the end of the weekend. After breakfast Saturday, we continued throughout the day, taking necessary breaks, to locate bags of gifts that were overlooked when we emptied the closets before we started. At times, there were as many as 150 gifts, some as small as an ornament, small toy, or a bag of a favorite candy, each individually wrapped. While I wrapped the gifts, my mother shared story after story of Christmases gone by—the hand-knit Christmas stockings, holiday baking, the Christmas play, my Christmas Day birth story, and dozens more. It was

Continued from page 25

SUNDAY, DEC. 21

Ice Carving Demonstration: Holiday Bear: 1 to 3 p.m. Üni-Home Life (front), 1046 Chapel St., New Haven. Features a professional ice carver who will transform two 300-pound blocks of ice into holiday-themed works of art. Last of three carvings. Open to the public. Part of the 2025 holiday events and promotions at The Shops at Yale. For info, visit theshopsatyale.com/holiday.

Breakfast with Santa: 9 to 11 a.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Features breakfast, meet-and-greet with Santa and time for pictures, and a treat bag for each child. Tickets: $59 per person. Free admission for children under 3. Service fees apply. Bring a camera and have your child write a letter to Santa if preferred. For info or reservations, visit madisonbeachhotelcurio.eventbrite.com or madisonbeachhotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings.

Holiday Dance Party with Spotlights: 7 to 10 p.m. Time to Dance Ballroom Dance Studio, 45 NE Industrial Rd., Branford. Admission: $20, includes a group lesson from 7 to 7:30 led by Karen Pfrommer. For info, email info@timetodanceballroom.com.

Silver Bells: A Holiday Handbell Concert: 4 p.m. Tabor Lutheran Church, 45 Tabor Dr., Branford. Features a holiday concert by Shoreline Ringers, a community handbell ensemble. The program includes Christmas classics and arrangements of traditional holiday hymns. A freewill offering will benefit the Shoreline Ringers and the Tabor

too many years before I thought to tape her, but the yearly repetition cemented them in my mind and heart, and I reflect upon them fondly every year around the holidays. Before I left Sunday, I would clean up the gift wrap station and bake a couple of batches of cookies for her to gift to her friends and neighbors. Recently, I attended our town’s craft fairs, supporting local artisans and churches, something I now see is a learned tradition of my holiday. I continue to knit Christmas stockings, bake many of the same cookies, and still wrap my gifts with colorful papers, not bags. The Wrap & Rap allowed the traditions of my childhood to be forged into my life as an adult making every Christmas special. These expressions of love and connection have become part of me and I love sharing them every year, in the form of gifts from my heart.

Handbell Choir. Free and open to the public. For info, call the church at 203-488-2541 or visit taborchurchbranford.org.

TUESDAY, DEC. 23 Music Together Demo Class: 10:30 to 11 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Features an early childhood music program for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers accompanied by a parent or guardian. Recommended for ages birth to preK. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

See page 28

LIVING • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Irving Berlin and Spectacular Dancing Highlight Goodspeed’s White Christmas By Karen Isaacs Columnist

How can you go wrong with spectacular dancing, glorious Irving Berlin tunes, and two romantic couples? With Goodspeed’s production of White Christmas, through Dec. 31, you can’t. This may not be a perfect production, but it is a truly enjoyable one. But before I quibble about some things, let’s look at the plot. Developed in 2000, this show appeared on Broadway in 2008; authors David Ives and Paul Blake take the basic plot from the

Review THEATER

1954 movie starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera Ellen, and tweaked it; some songs were added and others deleted. The first scene sets up at the background—a European WWII army unit in 1944. Captain Bob Wallace and Private Phil Davis have joined forces to put on a Christmas show for the company;

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

The finale in Irving Berlin's White Christmas at Goodspeed Musicals.

Wallace is an established performer, and Davis seems more of a cut-up. When the commanding officer, General Waverly, is reassigned, he addresses his troops and wonders where they will be in 10 years’ time. Fast-forward to 1954. Wallace and Davis are very successful song and dance men; Wallace is all business, and Davis is a ladies’ man. Just before Christmas, they go to a club to hear a nightclub act featuring the sisters of a fellow soldier, Pvt. Haynes. Phil and Judy Haynes are immediately attracted to each other and set about bringing Bob and Betty together, though there appears to be an instantaneous dislike. All four end up at a Vermont inn where the sisters are booked to appear, which just happens to be owned (not successfully) by General Waverly. Various romantic complications occur, but, as in a Hallmark movie, it all ends happily; even the inn is saved. The show ends with “White Christmas.” The highlight is the dancing. An early number, “The Best Things Happen While You’re Photo by Diane Sobolewski Dancing,” sets up the expectaLauren Nicole Chapman as Betty and Jonalyn Saxer as Judy in "Sisters" tions with a ballroom number by

Phil and Judy. Act II opens with a perhaps overlong but spectacular tap number, “I Love a Piano.” It stopped the show. Director Henter Foster has done a competent job but has made a few choices that seem inexplicable. For example, Ezekiel, a guy who works at the inn, is slow-moving and taciturn in Act I. It’s funny. By the Second Act, he is more vocal, he moves faster and has an apparent romantic exchange with the stage manager. I also expected Foster to make some use of the aisles as well as to make the finale memorable. But there were also some larger problems. Betty’s dislike of Bob is so extreme and exaggerated that it makes their coming together less believable. In fact, while the four leads are very, very good, that inexplicable chemistry is missing. You don’t really feel the immediate attraction between Phil and Judy, nor the growing attraction between Betty and Bob. Omar Lopez-Cepero, who was Emile de Becque in Goodspeed’s South Pacific, is vocally more of a crooner here. He doesn’t try to emulate Bing Crosby but brings

his own take on the role. At times, he doesn’t seem like the driven businessman/performer. Clyde Alves as Phil Davis dances up a storm and projects the devil-maycare attitude of the role. As the Haynes sisters, Jonalyn Saxer as Judy dances up a storm, and Lauren Nicole Chapman is fine as Betty. Chapman is very effective in “Love, You Didn’t Do Right By Me.” Sofie Nesanelis, as Martha, the manager of the inn (who just happens to have been a Broadway performer), almost brings the house down with “Let Me Sing and I’m Happy.” The three women join for an unfamiliar Berlin tune, “Falling Out of Love Can Be Fun.” As usual, the production values are excellent, particularly the costumes by Jeff Hendry, the lighting by Kirk Bookman and Nathan W. Scheuer, and the sound by Jay Hilton. The musical direction by Adam Souza and the Goodspeed orchestra were terrific. The star of the show is Kelli Barclay’s choreography. You might be able to snag a ticket to this enjoyable seasonal show at Goodspeed.org.

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • LIVING

Yale Rep Tackles Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler with Mixed Results: The Passion is Missing THEATER

By Karen Isaacs Columnist

Henrik Ibsen in his play Hedda Gabler created a title character who can be difficult to like or to feel sympathy for unless the director and cast help us dive deep below the surface. The Yale Rep production of Hedda, unfortunately, leaves us floundering. Where the emotions and the tension among the characters should be electric, they aren’t. The result: The night I saw the play was one of those rare occasions when an audience did not give a standing ovation. It’s disappointing because this production is director James Bundy‘s swan song as he retires as dean of the Drama School and artistic director of the Yale Rep in June. He is a fine director. Hedda can, on the surface, be a malicious, manipulative, and ultimately destructive person, not just to herself but to those around her. The program tries to point out that she is a woman living in a society that does not give her, in modern terms, agency. But when you need extensive notes in the program to flesh out a show, it indicates there is a problem. Unlike Nora, who in A Doll’s House frees herself, Hedda is lacking, as she will admit, the courage to live outside the boundaries of societal expectation. The result is, she destroys not only herself but most around her. We meet Hedda in her new home in a provincial Norwegian town after returning from a six-month European honeymoon. She is restless and bored; it is clear she does not love her husband, Jørgen Tesman, an academic. Hedda is a romantic at heart. It helps if we realize she had run out of options and had settled for what might be a safe choice. Though her father was a

Review

well-known general, it’s clear she was not left with any financial security upon his death. She’s beyond the normal marrying age, and her options have expired. She is afraid to take the leap into love, particularly when the man she might choose has a destructive streak. Safe, boring, and respectable Jørgen Tesman it is. The honeymoon was dull, with Tesman more interested in researching in dusty libraries than spending time with his new wife. She doesn’t even get to select her own home; rather, Tesman and his aunt have gone into debt to provide a home she didn’t really want. Almost immediately, she learns Eilert Løvborg, the man she may have truly been attracted to, has reformed his self-destructive ways and is about to achieve academic success. She sees herself, day after day and year after year, as being trapped. If she had been a man, you could have pictured her becoming a military officer. The problem with this production isn’t Marianna Gailus as Hedda. It is that a sense of danger is lacking. The play creates triangles of characters; the first triangle is Jørgen, Hedda, and Judge Brack, a friend. You should feel that Brack (played by Austin Durant) understands her all too well and wants power to use over her. The second, third, and fourth triangles involve Løvborg. The first is him with Hedda and Mrs. Elvsted, who is the cause of his reformation. She has demonstrated the courage that Hedda lacks, taking a leap of faith and violating societal norms. The other is with Hedda, Judge Brack, and Løvborg.

Photo courtesy of Yale Rep

Jørgen Tesman (Max Gordon Moore) and Hedda (Marianna Gailus)

Brack knows about their past relationship. In reality, additional triangles exist in the play. Gailus as Hedda gives a performance that emphasizes her manipulative nature so much so that a friend of mine asked if she was a sociopath. The performance doesn’t reveal enough of her depression, despair, and sense of being trapped. Judge Brack, played by Austin Durant, gives a totally fine performance, but it is only late in the play that you feel any sense of danger. The play works best when the audience recognizes that Brack wants to exert power over her and can destroy her at will. Løvborg represents the romantic hero—think of the poet Lord Byron—as he violates conventions without a care. She

pictures him with “vine leaves in his hair” like some Greek god. James Udom’s Løvborg seems no more interesting or charismatic than Tesman. It is hard to imagine that there was anything romantic or passionate between him and Hedda. Sobriety may have changed him, but in this performance, he has shrunk to a cypher. It is hard for the audience to imagine that there is still electricity between the two. Perhaps the performance that is most true to the character is Max Gordon Moore’s as Tesman—he conveys his love for Hedda, his dedication to his research, and his niceness, though he is oblivious to her feelings and what is going on. Tickets are available at YaleRep.org.

Continued from page 26

SUNDAY, DEC. 28

TUESDAY, DEC. 30

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24

Red Cross Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Soundview Family YMCA, 628 E. Main St., Branford. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

Winter-Inspired Sea Glass Ornaments Craft Workshop: 5:30 to 7 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Led by Courtney of Re-loved Designs. All supplies provided. For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Red Cross Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 2 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.

SATURDAY, DEC. 27 Saturday Cinema: 2 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

MONDAY, DEC. 29 Red Cross Blood Drive: 12:45. to 6 p.m. First Congregational Church, 26 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

See page 29

LIVING • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

CAS Presents its Holiday Exhibition Press Release from the Clinton Art Society

The Clinton Art Society (CAS) presents its Holiday Members Exhibition on view through Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. The exhibition offers inspiring art, ready for holiday gift-giving. “The show is an uplifting and art-filled way to come together to celebrate the holiday season,” says CAS President Robin Hammeal-Urban. The exhibit is at the Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 East Main Street, Clinton, and is open during regular Town Hall hours. CAS is a vibrant arts community with members from across the state and beyond working in all fine art media. The organization sponsors exhibits, educational programs, and critique sessions. New members are always welcome. For more information, email CAS at casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org.

Photo courtesy of the Clinton Art Society

Lucretia Bingham, Winter in Westbrook Bay, oil

Continued from page 28 Noon Year's Eve Storytime: 11:30 a.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. For children ages 5 and below. Drop-ins welcome. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Memorial Library. For info, visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 1 Annual Frosty 5K Road Race: Race day check-in and bib collection from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Features a 5K race, a kids fun run, and a 2M walk. All events begin at the Guilford Green. Kids fun run starts 10:30 a.m.; 5K race and 2M walk start 11 a.m. Post-race celebration at 11:45 a.m. Cost: 5K run and 2M walk, $35; kids fun run, $10 through race day. Proceeds benefit local community programs. Hosted by the Guilford Rotary Club. For info or tickets, visit guilfordrotaryclubct.com or runsignup.com/Race/CT/Guilford/GuilfordFrosty5K. Sixth Annual New Day Hike: 11 a.m. Chatfield Hollow State Park, meet at the toll booth. Hosted by the Friends of Chatfield Hollow State Park. Features a pinecone bird-feeder activity for children at the Oak Lodge Museum led by naturalist Wray Williams. For info, call Cheryl Buckley at 860-391-1919.

First Night: Bonfire Night 2026: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Branford Town Green. Features entertainment, ice carvings, wood carvings, s’mores, and a bonfire. In celebration of the New Year and America's 250th milestone anniversary. Free and open to the public. Sponsored by the Branford Parks, Recreation, and Senior Services Department. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.

FRIDAY, JAN. 2 Friday Movie Matinee: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features an afternoon film screening. Popcorn and soda provided. Registration preferred. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

SATURDAY, JAN. 3 Curator Tour: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Presented by Jessica Durdock Moreno, director of artistic planning at Long Wharf Theatre. The tour highlights the new exhibition, Invitation to Engage: 60 Years of Long Wharf Theatre & Beyond. Other tours are scheduled through Saturday, Feb. 7. For info, visit newhavenmuseum.org. To submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email to news@shorepublishing.com. For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website zip06.com. The deadline for submissions is noon, eight days prior to the publication date.

Chester Museum at The Mill Hosts Holiday Exhibit Press Release from Chester Historical Society

Chester Historical Society’s (CHS) Chester Museum at The Mill is in full holiday mode with a special installation of festive seasonal décor, live music performances, and an upcoming talk from Chester resident Jane Gordon about her book of holiday newsletters that spans decades. In conjunction with Chester’s Holiday Market, the museum will be open on Sundays through Dec. 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Gordon’s romance with the holidays is on full display on the first floor of Chester Museum at The Mill, which is brimming with décor on loan from Gordon: a twinkling tree, vintage cards from 1903 to 1914, antique decorations dating back to the Gilded Age, an ornate birdcage, and a handcrafted crèche with 1950s Fontanini figurines. Also on tap are favorite holiday pieces from Chester Historical Society’s archives and from CHS members’ personal collections. On Dec. 21 at noon, Gordon will talk about her book Christmas Memories: Letters at Christmastime. The book reflects both Gordon’s personal memories—recipes, traditions, cards— and what was happening in the world—annual holiday stamps, music, gifts—in a timespan stretching from 1950 to 2023. “Since I was a child, I’ve always written

Photo courtesy of the Chester Historical Society’s Chester Museum

Chester resident Jane Gordon will talk about her book of holiday newsletters that spans decades.

Christmas cards to family and friends,” Gordon says. “This time of year is the glue that keeps me in communication with them.”

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • LIVING

Christmas on the Rocks is a Hilarious Antidote to Too Much Holiday Sugar

Review THEATER

By Karen Isaacs Columnist

New this year is Matthew McGloin, who is playing all the male characters. Jen Cody returns for another year as the women in the show and Richard Kline is back for his third year as the bartender. He’s even more comfortable in the role, which includes sly references to his role in Three’s Company. Improved video quality of scenes from the various films and TV shows that play before the show is new this year. The scenes are crisper and clearer—a big improvement. Audience members will all have their favorite scenes. I was glad to see ZuZu return, but I do wish Karen (the little girl from the TV cartoon, Frosty the Snowman) was permanently retired. The joke has gone on too long. Jen Cody is a fine comedian who has the dexterity to play The Elf on the Shelf to perfection. McGloin is still finding his way with some of the characters. He was terrific as Ralph, and good as Kevin and Charlie Brown. HerPhoto courtesy of TheaterWorks Hartford mey, from the Rudolph the RedRichard Kline as the bartender and Matthew McGloin as Hermey the Elf from the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Nosed Reindeer cartoon, is always Reindeer cartoon an audience favorite. Christmas on the Rocks is a Last year, Ralphie from A I’m glad to report that this year gone, after several years, Zuzu delight. For more information or Christmas Story was no longer in he is back and better than ever. from It’s a Wonderful Life has tickets, visit TWHartford.org. the show. I was disappointed, but While the Little Drummer Boy is returned.

If you need a break from Hallmark movies or Scrooge discovering the joys of Christmas, then take yourself to TheaterWorks in Hartford to see this year‘s production of Christmas on the Rocks, which runs through Tuesday, Dec. 23. Artistic Director Rob Ruggiero developed this concept years ago, but each year it is slightly different. The premise is original: What happened to those iconic children whom we all grew up seeing in movies and TV shows? What are they like as adults? A series of accomplished playwrights have answered these questions, sometimes in surprising and/or cynical ways. In The Nutcracker, Clara is a young girl in love with her Cavalier. But what happens when she grows up? Does the romance continue? Is it happy? Her Cavalier is still young and handsome, but Clara is desperate to remain a young girl. In a series of short scenes, we meet a number of these child characters, now as adults, who wander into a lonely neighborhood bar on Christmas Eve. They tell the bartender, in this case the marvelous Richard Kline, their tale of woe. You will laugh your head off. This is definitely not for kids, although older teens will enjoy it. A few of the sketches have been in the show since the beginning, including the absolutely wonderful Charlie Brown sketch (written by Jacques Lamarre) that ends the show. Over the years, some sketches have been Photo courtesy of TheaterWorks Hartford removed, others have changed, Richard Kline with Matthew McGloin as Charlie Brown and some have returned.

Photo courtesy of TheaterWorks Hartford

Jen Cody plays the Elf on the Shelf in Christmas on the Rocks with Richard Kline

WA R E C K D’O S T I L I O

RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL | INVESTMENT 978 Main Street | Branford

Greg Robbins 203-464-0125

REAL ESTATE • THE SOUND • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Real Estate Transactions Three Generations of Real Estate Excellence

BRANFORD

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INVESTMENT

978 Main Street | Branford

Three Generations of Real Estate Excellence

Greg Robbins

203-464-0125 RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL | INVESTMENT

978 Main Street | Branford

27 Maplewood Dr: James and Jill E. Nenninger of Clinton to Evan T. Barillaro and Carly R. Ruzbasan, $600,000 on 11/25/2025 25 Olde Orchard Rd: Andrew Hurley of Clinton to Zachary Plourde and Caitlin Glazier, $610,000 on 11/24/2025

1 Osprey Cmns S: Tamara Sutfin and Kathleen Wadlow of Clinton to 22 Bayberry Ln: Laura Jane Zilinskas RET and Matthew Zilinskas of Stephen E. and Judith Y. Vance, $1,350,000 on 11/24/2025 Branford to Michael Stocker and Patricia Wang, $1,760,000 on 11/24/2025 7 Rocky Ledge Dr: Zachary Plourde of Clinton to Gianna Abbatello and 13 Brushy Plain Rd: Clifford A. and Timothy Smith, $365,000 on 11/24/2025 Linda M. Trudeau of Branford to Salem Development LLC, $430,000 on 7 Taylor Ridge Rd: Deena R. Gallerani of Clinton to Thomas M. 11/24/2025 Mayeski, $765,000 on 11/26/2025 75 Harbor St: Robert Falcigno of Branford to Steven and Dana Anderson, $1,280,000 on 11/25/2025 EAST HAVEN

CHESTER

MO O N EY M ISH LER TE A M

59 Castle View Dr: Joseph E Kmetz T and Janice M. Kmetz of Chester to Theresa Kmetz and Rodney Mcdaniel, $283,330 on 11/25/2025 54 Maple St: Edward F. Mcgrath of Chester to Northofgrace LLC, $325,000 on 11/26/2025

CLINTON Home is where our heart is Find yours with us Katie Hainsworth Westrin The Hainsworth Team 203-509-3619 1080 Main St., Branford Katie.westrin@raveis.com

Bill Mooney and Beth Mishler 203.444.1171 / 203.640.6567 bill.mooney@raveis.com • beth.mishler@raveis.com

119 Bradford Ave: Susanne Pellegrino of East Haven to Lauryn L. Reinhardt, $300,000 on 11/24/2025 218 Dodge Ave: Travis Williams of East Haven to Franklin G. Jimenez and Mercedes E. Vintimilla, $320,000 on 11/19/2025 89 Eddon Dr: Anna Belli Irt and Angela Belli-Infante of East Haven to Jose L. Morales, $568,000 on 11/25/2025

60 Edward St: Albis Helen M Est and Michael A. Albis of East Haven to Jesse E. and Michael Brown, $545,000 Clinton Yacht Dockominium Unit on 11/25/2025 B3609: James and Karen Piscitelli of 49 Foote Rd: Constanza V. Mcnellis Clinton to Melissa B. and Lucille Crescenzi, $14,000 on 11/24/2025 of East Haven to Jade P. Salvattore, $335,000 on 11/19/2025 102 Long Hill Rd: Marie A. Lancaster of Clinton to Kyle L. Fillion, 75 Henry St: Superior Prop Group $302,000 on 11/24/2025 LLC of East Haven to Dylan P. Mcallister, $260,000 on 11/21/2025 28 Maple Ave: Robert Klein and Brenda Wiley of Clinton to Patricia Gallagher, $425,000 on 11/24/2025

16 Eastwood Dr: Jeffrey Y. and Susan P. Ngeow of Madison to Michael J. and Jennifer C. Siteman, $700,000 on 91 Main St: Ann M. Bates of Essex to 11/24/2025 Briana Fioretti and Scott Wilson, $650,000 on 11/24/2025 110 Randi Dr: Thomas F. Swank of Madison to Kevin P. and Melody Becker, $1,400,000 on 11/25/2025

ESSEX

GUILFORD

60 Winterhill Rd: Frank J. Kuszpa of Madison to Brandon G. Spadory and Davia A. Schioppo, $620,000 on 11/25/2025

Results That Will Move You

(203) 410-6718

jana.ghidossi@cbmoves.com

24 Copper Hill Dr Unit 24: James H. Ballentine of Guilford to Sharon Crockett, $440,000 on 11/26/2025 249 Driftwood Ln: Anthony W. Sorrentino of Guilford to Mandie S. Canestri, $70,000 on 11/26/2025 19 Polpis Ln Unit 19: 19 Polpis Lane LLC of Guilford to Raffaele and Amanda P. Romano, $162,500 on 11/26/2025 602 W Lake Ave: Michael Vespoli Dynasty T and Michael N. Delgass of Guilford to Goran Micevic and Cristiana Baloescu, $1,050,000 on 11/25/2025

KILLINGWORTH 252 Chestnut Hill Rd: Beck Lorraine A Est and Amy B. Nashwinter of Killingworth to Murphy S. Hackett, $750,000 on 11/25/2025 593 Route 148: Edward M. Alexandro and Madalyn G. Conforti of Killingworth to Kara A. Rogers, $630,000 on 11/25/2025

MADISON 52 Copse Rd: Deborah J. Dahl of Madison to Barbara E. Parker and Michael K. Hawkes, $799,000 on 11/26/2025

NORTH BRANFORD My job is real estate. My business is building relationships.

Nancy Hunt

203.927.7105 nancy.hunt@cbrealty.com 1024 Main Street, Branford

2 Burr Hill Ter: Lawrence Cawley and Nancy Abrams of North Branford to Elel Properties LLC, $330,000 on 11/24/2025 4 Overlook Dr: Zachary W. Hawk of North Branford to Albert C. Nyack and Brooke L. Somers, $510,000 on 11/26/2025 Totoket Rd: Lp Home Improvements LLC of North Branford to Richard J. Esposito, $697,300 on 11/24/2025

NORTH HAVEN 35 Belvedere Rd: Bradley and Kathryn L. Vogel of North Haven to John Waybright, $455,000 on 11/17/2025 84 Grove Rd: Johnson Pearl M Est and Patricia L. Gurney of North Haven to Elliott C. Griffin, $385,000 on 11/19/2025 282 Maple Ave: 282 Maple Ave Assoc LLC of North Haven to Y Access Transport LLC, $860,000 on 11/19/2025 Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • THE SOUND • COMMUNITY NEWS

2025 BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL THE DAY

TUESDAY DECEMBER 23, 2025 MOHEGAN SUN ARENA TICKETS: $12

Purchase tickets by scanning the QR code or visiting the Mohegan Sun Box Office

NEW LONDON VS. NFA 4:00 PM PRESENTED BY

GRISWOLD VS. OLD LYME 6:00 PM

WEST HAVEN VS. NOTRE DAME WEST HAVEN

8:00 PM