Issuu

January 8, 2026

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Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXVI Iss. 2

Chester Tourism Liaison Opening New Beverage Spot Downtown By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer

The town of Chester will soon be getting a brand new combination spot, the first of its kind in the town. Resident Tiffany Nevers, a tourism liaison in the area, has received clearance and approval for a coffee shop/wine and cocktail bar, called Three Fates. It is set

to open on North Main Street. The project has been nearly five months in the making, with Nevers saying that despite the time it has taken to put this project together and make it come to life, she is thankful for this opportunity. “I spent many months looking for a location. I understand that the process is lengthy, and many spaces go very quickly,” she said.

“I know the Realtor of the space that we ended up selecting, and it really felt like the opportunity fell right into my lap.” Nevers is now excited to share her ideas and new shop with residents and visitors of Chester, wanting to emphasize a sense of community and togetherness. See Chester Tourism page 9

Nancy Meinke is getting Clinton ready for America's 250th birthday..............................2

Fun On Ice Kathleen Jarzabek, right, reaches out for her son Cody Robida, 7, during an afternoon skate along with Tyler Robida, left, on Jennings Pond in Chester on Saturday, Jan. 4. With the pond frozen over in a cold start to 2026, skaters created two makeshift ice rinks while ice fishermen also took advantage of the frigid conditions.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Valley Courier

Captain Morgan sums up the local fishing year in review by referring to iffy weather.................................12

Trends in travel for 2026 include going with small groups and finding new places.................................19

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JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Nancy Meinke Invites Clinton To Celebrate America 250 By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

Clinton, get ready to say “semiquincentennial.” The year 2026 marks the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence, and Clinton will join communities around the country in recognizing the important anniversary. Locally, those efforts are being spearheaded by Nancy Meinke. To honor the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence, municipalities across the country were asked to find ways to celebrate the occasion. In a statement, the national 250 committee describes the initiative as “an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.” In June 2024, Nancy was elected chairperson of Clinton’s local America 250 committee that was charged with brainstorming

Person

of the Week events for Clinton specifically to celebrate the nation’s semi-quincentennial (which Nancy stresses are pronounced “sem-i-quin-centen-ni-al:). After over 14 months of planning, now, Nancy and the Clinton committee are ready to tell the public what they have in store throughout 2026. “We are really excited, and we really want the whole community to be involved,” Nancy tells the Harbor News. The focal point of the 250 committee celebration will be a town wide party planned for the first week of August at Town Hall. The event will feature food, music, live signings of the Declaration of Independence, as well as

the participation of different community groups showcasing what the date means to them. “The goal for the town is to create a lasting tribute to this milestone event that will serve as a reminder of the Declaration’s enduring impact for future residents of Clinton,” says Nancy. “It’s an opportunity for everyone to be involved.” While the big event may not be until August, Nancy says that the committee will be holding smaller ongoing programming throughout the year. There will be a lecture series by David LeVasseur on Revolution-era history as well as a cemetery tour around Halloween highlighting graves from the Revolutionary era, materials from the Clinton Poet Laureate, contributions from Clinton school students and participation in the annual Boat Parade – where Nancy proudly notes the 250 committee-themed boat was See Nancy Meinke page 9

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Nancy Meinke is getting Clinton ready for America's 250th birthday.

Library Hosts Food Drive Essex Library Association (ELA) will host a food drive until Friday, Jan. 30, during regular library operating hours. A wagon for nonperishable donated food items is set up across from the library’s circulation desk. The donated food items benefit the Region 4 Backpack Program, which provides nutritious food when other resources are not available to students identified by school social workers at Essex Elementary, John Winthrop Middle School, and Valley Regional High School. Occasions when other resources are unavailable include weekends or school vacations. Suggested donations include juice boxes, shelf-stable milk, (vanilla or chocolate), applesauce cups, fruit cups, pretzels, fruit snacks, oatmeal pouches, cereal cups, breakfast/granola bars, Nutella, tuna, mayonnaise, mac & cheese, Chef Boyardee products, ramen, peanut butter, grape or strawberry jelly, beef stew, Ricea-Roni, pasta, sauce, beans, corn, and sloppy joe. The food is delivered weekly to students and includes breakfasts, lunches, dinners, beverages, and snacks. For more information, call the library at 860-767-1560.

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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Inside Living

Triple Shows at LAA The Lyme Art Association (LAA) rings in the new year with three shows, including its annual associate artists show.........................................................................27 New Shows for 2026 New musicals and shows mark 2026 in Connecticut theaters....................................21 MLK Day Breakfast Renowned civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale will be the featured speaker at the 41st annual MLK Day Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 19, at Branford High School.....................................................................................................................................25

Quote

of the week

“People are seeking value, escape, and something new.”

Marcia Simon...........19

Index Obituaries............................................ 5 Horoscopes.......................................10 Crossword Puzzle...........................10 Sports..................................................12 Fishing................................................12 Tides....................................................14

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

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(usps 021-267) Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Deep River, CT 06417 Postmaster: Send address changes to Valley Courier, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320

Classifieds..........................................15 Sudoku...............................................18 Living..................................................19 Calendar.............................................20 Real Estate.........................................31

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Essex Bank Announces Chief Lending Officer, VP Essex, Chester, & Deep River’s Hometown Newspaper

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

From a Press Release

Thomas Casey, a seasoned finance professional with four decades of experience, has been promoted to Chief Lending Officer at Essex Bank. In another noteworthy personnel change, the bank’s loan team added Vice President and Senior Credit Officer Denise Sokolowski. Casey’s most recent role was President and CEO of Nations Equipment Finance. Prior to that role, Tom maintained numerous leadership positions including Vice President at DLL Group, Global Credit Risk Manager at Debis Financial Services, a division of Daimler Chrysler Capital Services, and Controller at Anastasio & Sons Trucking Company. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Quinnipiac College. Recently, he was an active board member of the Associated Equipment Distributors Foundation (AEDF), which seeks to address the need for skilled professionals in the equipment distribution industry through a “commu-

nity•based, school-to-work” strategy. Sokolowski has over 20 years of banking experience in the Connecticut market, most recently holding the position of SVP/Senior Credit Risk Manager. She has expertise in oversight of commercial credit underwriting, training and mentoring credit analysts, watched asset portfolio management, developing lending policies, commercial loan structuring and loan review. She also serves as Secretary of the notfor-profit organization Shoreline Greenway Trail. “We are excited to promote Tom and welcome Denise to the team,” President and CEO Diane Arnold said. Essex Bank donates up to 10% of its after-tax net income to nonprofit organizations and community development projects. The Essex-based bank is rated by Bauer Financial as a 5-Star institution. For more information, visit www.essex. bank.

Singing Voices Wanted

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Editorial Staff

The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords, conducted by Samuel Tucker and accompanied by a 10-piece orchestra under the direction of Alan Dougherty, is currently seeking individuals to join its expanding alto, tenor, and bass sections. No auditions or prior experience are required—only a passion for singing and a commitment to the ensemble is necessary. Rehearsals will start Tuesday, Jan. 20, from 6:45 to 9 p.m. at St. Francis Church, Msgr. Fox Parish Hall, 10 Elm Street, Middletown, in preparation for the spring concert scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at Portland High School. New members may enroll through Tuesday, Feb. 3. For more information, call 860-342-3120 or visit vocalchords20.org.

Need Help with Challenging Children? Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

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.

Correction Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Eric O’Connell Harbor News

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

The best way to get hold of Serenity Bishop, Shore Publishing's news sports editor, is to email s.bishop@shorepublishing.com. Coaches and athletic directors who want to get in touch with Serenity are encouraged to give him a call at 203-245-1877, ext. 6141. Serenity's email was given incorrectly in last week's editions.

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Obituaries

Contacting Valley Courier

Obituary

David Austin Wood Essex David Austin Wood was born Oct. 27, 1927, in Flushing, N.Y., lived in Bayside, Manhattan, N.Y., Old Greenwich, Darien, Conn., Sunapee N.H., and Essex (Essex Meadows), Conn. Austin is survived by his son Gordon and grandson Nikolas of Seattle, Wash.; and daughter Elizabeth and husband Jack Bunce, of Ketchum, Idaho; as well as his grandchildren, Austin Nalen-Sprole, of Toronto, Calif., and Christopher Nalen of San Francisco, Calif. Austin was predeceased by his dear and beloved first wife, Marie Bennett Wood in 1975; his son Blake in 2012; and beloved second wife Suzanne Tower Wood in 2023. Austin graduated from fBayside High School in 1945, then served in the U.S. Army, in the Medical Corps in Germany 1945 - 1947. He then attended Colgate University, majoring in Social Psychology, graduating in 1951. At Colgate he was a member and President of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, as well as serving as Editor of the "The Banter" humor magazine. He spent his career in the decorative textiles trade, an industry and field he loved and flourished in for forty-six years, commencing with F. Schumacher & Co., onto Stevens Linen, Cheney Brothers, K&M Fabrics, with the last eighteen years styling, designing, man-

ufacturing, importing, and selling beautiful jacquard textiles as a partner in South-Eastern Fabrics, of Hickory, N.C. He was passionate about establishing partnerships, relationships both with the various textile mills in Europe, especially N. Italy and with his customers in the U.S. as converters and jobbers. Austin’s passion for beauty in nature, arts and crafts along with his creative gifts, abilities, endeavors extended to and embellished many others lives with his skilled craftmanship of woodworking, gardening and homemaking with an intuitive and trained eye and mind. Sailing and cruising was a life-long passion of his, with extensive history of adventures on the water extending from Maine to Florida, Caribbean, and San Juan Islands, WA, Gulf Islands, BC, Canada. When winter arrived and the boats were put to bed for the season, he loved to ski with his family and friends, creating great experiences and memories with all in New England, Utah, New Mexico, Idaho, Colorado and Europe. Austin was truly a people-person, across generations, countries, states, race and gender. Most of all he loved his family, treasured being a father and grandfather, his friends, always willing to lend a hand and support. He was a spiritual man, one that lived in and with unconditional love, hence he was loved and cherished by many. Austin’s legacy of love, laughter and connection will live on in the hearts and minds of all that knew him and shared his life.

As your hometown paper, the Valley Courier 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 Valley Courier 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 Valley Courier 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. Valley Courier 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 news@shorepublishing.com 203-245-1877 Fax 203-245-9773

Louie Listens The Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, continues with Louie Listens, a program that allows children to read with a licensed therapy dog. Louie Listens takes place Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 5:15 p.m. Parents and guardians can register their children to read for a 15-minute period to Louie the Labrador, a local licensed therapy dog, and his handler, Rebecca Russell. For more information or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Chester Kindergarten Count Chester Elementary School is looking to get an accurate kindergarten count for the 2026-’27 school year and predict the count for future years. For families with a child who will be entering kindergarten in August 2026 or for new families with a child aged 5 and under, call Gayle Capezzone, secretary at Chester Elementary School, at 860-526-5797.

SPONSORED CONTENT: 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 Valley Courier 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.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Photo by June Getchius

Nice Girl Nahla Story by Carol Andrecs

It is time for our petite and adorable Nahla to find a home of her own. Nahla is a soft and silky 5-year-old female dilute tortoiseshell with a beautiful fluffy tail. Her markings are unique and extraordinary. Nahla loves to receive treats, and she also enjoys the company of other cats but prefers a quiet home without dogs. When she gets attention and is being petted, she will purr very loudly. For an appointment to meet sweet Nahla, stop by during our open house events or apply online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

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

Find Your Match at Forgotten Felines

Christmas Tree Pick-up Cub Scout Pack 21 will hold its annual Christmas tree pick-up and haul away Christmas trees in the towns of Old Saybrook and Essex for a suggested donation of $20. Cash or checks are accepted on pick-up day. The remaining pick-up day is Saturday, Jan. 10. Christmas trees can be left out by 8 a.m. for pick-up. For more information or to request a pick-up, email pack21treepickup@gmail.com.

Little Learners at the Library Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, continues its series of Little Learners story times with stories, songs, rhymes, and crafts around a designated theme. Children and their caregivers can enjoy story time on Fridays at 10 a.m., with the theme of police pals on Jan. 9, yetis and abominable snowmen on Jan. 16, sledding on Jan. 23, and our five senses on Jan. 30. The program is best for children ages 2 to 5 to learn early literacy concepts of colors, shapes, opposites, the alphabet, and more. Little Learners story times take place at the library, 33 West Avenue. For more information or to register, contact the library at 860-767-1560 or staff.essexlib@gmail.com, or visit youressexlibrary.org.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Deep River Board of Selectmen Consider Outside Company for Emergency Notifications

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The Deep River Board of Selectmen met on Monday, Dec. 29, for the last time in 2025. On the agenda was a topic that drew the attention of many residents, especially during this time of year, the issue of emergency response, especially when it comes to winter weather and storms. According to the board, there were numerous concerns from the residents of Deep River during the most recent winter storm in Connecticut, leading to this conversation about how the town can do a better job of alerting its residents regarding situations like this. First Selectwoman Carol Jones, along with the other members of the board, brought up the idea of working with an outside company, mentioning a company like Everbridge. Jones mentioned conversations that she had with Chester First Selectwoman Cindy Lignar, since Lignar signed off on using Everbridge and a town wide alert system for the people of Chester. Selectwoman Cynthia Torres said that the board is currently considering all options, and that a partnership with an outside company could be very beneficial to the town and its residents. “I do feel that working with a vendor

such as Everbridge is part of the comprehensive emergency operations plan that we want to have in place,” she said. “We are expanding our response plan by exploring a more inclusive and broadreaching communication plan.” When asked about what a plan like this would entail and what residents could expect, Torres said that this new system would be used to deliver more information to those who need to be in the know, and it will be used in different formats. “This would incorporate not only the use of the siren public address system, as we have used for many years in the past,” Torres said. “We would also be using text messaging with the potential content of geofencing affected areas, email and direct calls to our residents to notify of hazards, and take the next steps to make themselves and their families safe.” While there is no confirmed partnership with any company yet, Torres did volunteer herself during the meeting with the Board of Selectmen to look into the costs associated with a contract with an outside company, as well as requesting a demonstration with Everbridge. It is also very likely that this topic will be discussed further at a future Deep River Board of Selectmen meeting.

Shoreline Arts Alliance Accepting Applications for Scholarships in the Arts Shoreline Arts Alliance is now accepting applications for its annual Scholarships in the Arts program, open to juniors and seniors (or homeschooling equivalent) residing within Shoreline Arts Alliance’s 24-town region who will be pursuing an education in the arts. Eligible students may apply in the fields of creative writing, dance, instrumental music, theatre, visual art, and vocal music. Deserving students will be awarded scholarships ranging from $250 to $1,000. The winner in each category will receive a $1,000 scholarship for continuing education and/or supplies as well as a mentorship from a professional artist. Applicants will be contacted to schedule interviews and auditions. Students who are interested in the arts and reside in the 24-town region (covering all of Middlesex County, Madison, Guilford, North Branford, Branford, and East Haven) are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through Thursday, Jan. 8. A nonrefundable fee of $25 is required with each application. The Jeffrey Dobbs Scholarship for Excellence in Painting and Richard S. Dart Memorial Arts Scholarship are also offered as part of the Shoreline Arts Alliance’s Scholarship in the Arts program. To submit an online application, visit shorelinearts.org. For more information, contact the Shoreline Arts Alliance at 203-421-6739 or office@shorelinearts.

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Nancy Meinke Invites Clinton To Celebrate America 250 Continued from page 2 recognized for its decorations in the 2025 parade. Asked what her favorite event the committee has planned is, Nancy points to a program that will be ongoing throughout 2026. “We’re going to do a series where people can explain who they are either in written statements or they can submit short video or audio clips and we’ll share them on the website. Everyone has a story to tell, and we want people to tell us about themselves. I’m so excited about the stories.” The parameters for the submissions to the series will be posted online. Nancy is quick to direct the public’s attention to the town website and to the Facebook page “America 250 Clinton” which will share more information about upcom-

ing events. Additionally, any individuals or groups seeking to sponsor an event or help participate in an event can contact Nancy at nnmeinke@gmail.com. Nancy’s journey to becoming involved in the 250 committee and coming to Clinton is not your typical story. Nancy and her husband came to Clinton three years ago aboard a house boat they had renovated to live on fulltime and planned to stop in Clinton only to visit family in the area. Life had other plans, however, and Clinton became a fulltime home. “Then one day my daughter told me she saw an ad for the 250 committee and said ‘mom this really seems up your alley’, and I hadn’t really been involved in town yet, so I joined,” Nancy explains. While she concedes she’s not much of a history buff herself, Nancy was actually a volunteer for the Roxbury, Connecticut, bicentennial celebration, an event that she

says proved formative for her. “I was always sticking my neck out to be involved with initiatives over the years, especially when my kids were in school,” Nancy says of her past civic involvement. Additionally, Nancy says she was motivated to join the committee after reading comments from the bipartisan national 250 committee stressing that the event is “a once in a lifetime celebration” and thinking about how fun it would be to help organize such an event on the local level. “My goal is just simply to bring the community together,” Nancy says. Though she isn’t a Clinton native, Nancy says the town has certainly grown on her quickly. “I love the Harbor area. We’re all boaters in my family; we love to go clamming. It’s really just a nice community. I also love Café Nola and spending time there,” says Nancy.

Chester Tourism Liaison Opening New Beverage Spot Downtown Continued from page 1 “I really want this to be a communitydriven space for the people here in Chester,” she said. “Ultimately, I wanted to create a hub not just for creativity, but for community as well. I really wanted to make a space that is for everyone.” The location will focus on providing the best quality beverages and services to its

customers, whether they are coming in to grab a quick coffee to-go, or spending an evening at the bar with their family or friends. Nevers recognizes that a location like this is very unique, and said that there were many reasons for wanting to explore this kind of business, including trends and changes. “When I was considering opening up this space, I thought about how much

trends have changed over the years,” she said. “We understand that there is a bigger community of people who do not drink alcohol. We have an expansive list of mocktails…we want to create a space that is for everyone, and deliver a high level of hospitality.” Nevers is also looking at even more ways to bring the community closer and have them more involved in her work, as

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF DEEP RIVER Legal notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of Deep River that the second installment of all REAL ESTATE and PERSONAL PROPERTY tax bills based on the October 1, 2024 Grand List, and on all MOTOR VEHICLE SUPPLEMENTAL tax bills are due and payable on January 1, 2026. These taxes become delinquent if paid or postmarked after February 2, 2026. The interest rate on delinquent taxes is one and one-half percent of said tax for each month or fraction thereof which elapses after January 1, 2026. A minimum interest charge of $2.00 is made on all delinquent tax bills. Payments may be made online at deepriverct.us (Fees apply) or mailed to the Tax Collector, PO Box 13, Deep River, CT 06417. Katherine L. Cryder, CCMC Tax Collector

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF ESSEX All property owners liable to pay a tax to the Town of Essex on the Grand List of October 1, 2024, are hereby notified that the second and final installment of taxes becomes due and payable on or before the 1st of January, 2026. Failure to make payment on or before the 2nd day of February, 2026 will be subject to an interest charge of one and one half (1½%) percent per month from the due date of January 1st 2026 (18% annually) with a minimum interest charge of $2.00 per bill. This also applies to the Motor Vehicle Supplemental tax bill due and payable in January, 2026.

she has brought up the idea of an events schedule when the space opens later this year. Among potential events for customers to enjoy, she wants to invite local artists to perform and bring atmosphere to the space, as well as a potential comedy and/or open mic night, as a way for people to come in and express themselves as they enjoy the ambiance and beverages.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF CHESTER By the authority of the State of Connecticut, I have received a Tax Warrant to collect taxes due to the Town of Chester on the Grand List of October 1, 2024. All persons whose names are listed on the 2024 Grand List are hereby notified and liable to pay tax to the Town of Chester, with the second installment of Real Estate and Personal Property bills due and payable on January 1, 2026. All persons receiving a supplemental Motor Vehicle tax bill are hereby notified that said tax is due and payable in one installment on January 1, 2026. Failure to make payment on or before February 3, 2026 will result in an interest charge of one and one half percent (1.5%) per month from the due date of January 1, 2026 until payment is made with a minimum charge of $2.00 per bill. Mail postmarked on or before February 3, 2026 will be considered an on-time payment. As a matter of law, the taxpayer is liable to the town for the tax installment(s) as they become due and payable. Failure to receive a bill does not relieve the taxpayer of the requirement to pay the bill or the statutorily required interest when a late payment is made. Tax office hours for January 2026 are Monday-Thursday 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm. Closed Fridays except for January 16, 2026 9am-12pm and January 30, 2026 9am-12pm. We encourage you to view and pay your bill(s) online at https://www.chesterct.org/ (payment processing fee applies) or via mail. Checks should be made payable to Town of Chester Tax Collector and mailed to the following address.

We suggest you pay online or mail in your payment.

Town of Chester Tax Collector PO Box 314 Chester, CT 06412

Megan Haskins Tax Collector

Emily J. Vetter-Haupt Tax Collector

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JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Horoscopes

Crossword

For the week of January 8 - January 14 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Minor obstacles are in your path, Aries. It’s easy to get frustrated right now. Once you clear the hurdles it will be smoother sailing before long. Remain patient.

Your energy will remain high this week, Libra, enabling you to come up with some innovative ideas that have true staying power. Pursue your options.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21 You treasure family and friends, Taurus. This week calls for an important decision that could affect them all. It may be challenging, but you will make the right call. GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, you may have to reset your priorities, as new information has come to the surface. Prioritize responsibilities so major issues are taken care of first. CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22 Unavoidable situations may cross your path this week, Cancer. It is important that you stay the course. Committing to tackling things head-on is the most productive approach. LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23 It may be tempting to shirk your responsibilities right now, Leo. Resist that temptation. Keep your head down and keep on working. It will soon prove worth it. VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, be confident and listen to your instincts, Libra. Do so before taking on any important tasks that might turn up in the days or weeks to come. A surprise might be around the corner.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22 The conditions are right for finishing an important task, Scorpio. You will be able to come up with wonderful ideas that have true staying power. Pursue your options. SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you have been working hard lately and this may result in an overactive and tired mind. You should factor in a break so you can recharge your body and spirit. CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20 Focus on keeping your cool even if that proves difficult, Capricorn. Be the bigger person in all of your interactions. You have a strong ability to control of your emotions. AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you may feel uneasy or worried for unknown reasons. Trust your gut in this instance and steer clear of trouble should it try to get in your way this week. PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20 Family tops your list of priorities right now, Pisces. You are likely to spend considerable time with loved ones in the days to come. Relish in all the opportunities to connect.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

Crossword solution for January 1, 2026

JANUARY 8 Cynthia Erivo, Actress (39) JANUARY 9 Catherine Princess of Wales (44) JANUARY 10 Mason Mount, Athlete (27) JANUARY 11 Marc Blucas, Actor (54)

JANUARY 12 Rob Zombie, Singer (61) JANUARY 13 Liam Hemsworth, Actor (36) JANUARY 14 Dave Grohl, Singer (57)

CLUES ACROSS 1. Lakes 6. Electromotive force 9. Invests in little enterprises 13. Longtime Utah Jazz coach 14. Small sailboat 15. Actor Idris 16. Mild yellow Dutch cheese made in balls 17. System that detects objects under water 18. Harsh, grating noise 19. Steward 21. A fencing sword 22. Infections 23. Actress Ryan 24. Sodium 25. Swedish castle 28. A lump of slime 29. African antelope 31. Insurance providers 33. Choosy 36. Ringworm 38. Unpolished 39. Drenches 41. Pant style 44. Son of Noah 45. Spiritual being 46. Upton Sinclair novel 48. Journalist Tarbell 49. Popular sports highlight show 51. Born of 52. Rich tapestry 54. S. China seaport 56. State of being unclothed 60. Surrounded by 61. Residue 62. Away from wind 63. Dried-up 64. Visionary 65. A very large body of water 66. Garden tools 67. Screen type 68. Ancient Scandinavian poet

CLUES DOWN 1. Millisecond 2. Spanish city 3. A sudden very loud sound 4. “The Indiana Jones of beer” 5. Tin 6. Sea eagles 7. Volcanic crater 8. Type of coat 9. Women’s apartments in Ottoman palace 10. Divulge a secret 11. Norwegian playwright 12. “It’s a Wonderful Life” director 14. Poisonous perennial plant 17. 18-year astronomical period 20. Clothes 21. Places to sit 23. Family of regulator genes 25. New York ballplayer 26. Impressive in size or scope 27. Jacques __, French biologist 29. One from the Big Apple 30. Genus of woolly lemurs 32. Songs to one’s beloved 34. Indigenous person of N.E. Thailand 35. Supplemented with difficulty 37. Farewell 40. Investment account (abbr.) 42. One from Utah 43. Begets 47. A male child 49. Break apart 50. Brief appearance 52. Partner to “oohed” 53. A light informal meal 55. Fabric with smooth, shiny surface 56. One billionth of a second 57. Ancient Italian-Greek colony 58. Close tightly 59. Mail out 61. Language 65. Computer characteristic

Word Search

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.

RESOLUTIONS WORD SEARCH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for January 1, 2026: STORE

ACCOUNTABILITY ACHIEVEMENT ASPIRATION CHANGE COMMITMENT DETERMINATION DISCIPLINE FOCUS GOAL HABIT IMPROVEMENT INTENTION MILESTONE MINDSET MOTIVATION OBJECTIVE PERSISTENCE PLAN PROGRESS PROMISE RENEWAL ROUTINE TRANSFORMATION VISION Word Search solution for January 1, 2026

Sports By Captain Morgan Special to The Courier

VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026 • SPORTS

Valley Courier Valley Courier Thursday, January 8, 2026

The Fishing Year in Review for 2025 Fishing report

The year 2025 was a year of weather and/or whether. More often than not, fishing trips had to be molded around impending weather fronts that were as predictable as the winning lottery ticket. Then one had to gaze into the immediate future and decide whether or not to venture out on Long Island Sound (or beyond) to fish or turn inland to hit the sweet water. Before that, short blasts of snow hit the shoreline - even a taste or two of a noreaster - brought the rumbling of snow plows. Freezing temperatures also enlisted the work of USCG Cutter Bollard, the primary ice breaker, aided by the Howser and Cleat, to clear the Connecticut River. Ospreys got into their routine late - some nests doing better than others. Fish migrations heading north stalled their arrival while boaters’ plans were deferred on more than one occasion due to inclement weather, leaving marinas with a backlog and weekenders running around getting their vessels sea-ready in time for the upcoming season. There were more ice fishing opportunities early on - significantly less by the immediate shoreline. Hard water species normally caught through the ice did not disappoint - neither did trout waters for anglers who enjoyed the solitude and challenges that winter brought. The typical tidal rivers brought anglers to Atlantic salmon waters where broodstock were fought between the dams, sea-run brown trout were running upstream and holdover striped bass were gathered. Most ‘linesiders’ were caught and released while, fortunately, other misguided anglers had to pay the price for disregarding common sense regulations and attempted to poach their way around without getting caught. Colorful brookies were coaxed to take a fly or small inline spin-

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

ner while being fished in Classdesignated rivers as rainbows and browns danced the cool waters with anglers casting artificials in their direction. Trout stockings covered most of the popular hard water spots that did experience good flags while happy jiggers and several family and friend get-togethers gathered around a cozy campground setting. Wind was not friendly! As spring approached, in fact, it was the weather that reared its ugly head interrupting the stocking program. In some cases it was the ice, but more to the point, it was the water levels and, in some cases, flows that caused any disruption. The end result, though, was that trout stocking was over the top and successfully kept anglers into fish all season. Lake and pond fishing kicked off early with good largemouth, smallmouth, and pickerel catches. Panfish fired up along with white perch, some northern pike, channel catfish and river carp. Bowfin caught attention while shortnose sturgeon were encountered breaching in the Connecticut River during spawning season - startling, yet stunning to witness. Inland fishing continued to be a bed of ‘hot’ activity throughout the whole season. By spring, striped bass livened up the holdover rivers when they moved down, creating untold interactions with fishers catching and releasing numbers of below-theslot fish. Around the same time, blackfish (tautog) season opened for the month of April. Wind direction and weather were big factors despite warmer water. Small and short fish were the norm in light of a few fish caught further up the ladder. Few fishers attempted winter flounder even though bays and some channels held these flatties.

Photo montage courtesy of Captain Morgan

Throughout 2025, fishing the sweet and briny waters produced an array of fish species and many personal bests, but weather reared its challenging head as weather fronts dashed plans while other days turned out to be spectacular.

If one knew the spots and winds calmed down enough, the limit of two fish were generally caught using soft baits and chum. Weather continued to play into fishing plans as by now, anglers sensed that coastal migrations of fish hit the delay button. Normal signs of baitfish were missing even some of the winter river herring normally found upriver were not too quick to move down. Small harbor bluefish were in short supply compounding May’s marina dump due to weather setbacks. Eventually they showed up, along with small stripers that eventually ushered in slot and over-the-slot fish. Rain and wind continued to upset plans - but not for the

weakfish run. Sizes were not as impressive as last season and the one before that however, they were one of the species caught pretty much throughout the season. These Squeteagues took artificials (including flies) and bait as they penetrated the Sound making their way to spawning and feeding grounds. Catches of decent fluke were made as the season developed in spite of the high numbers of shorts but that did not stop the serious fluke hunters. Water temps warmed which turned scup, spot croaker and black sea bass collectively, into a key popular bottom fishery. Reefs and rock piles held fish pretty much throughout most of the

Sound and reef fishers took full advantage of the action. Overall, striped sea robins left anglers wanting, but brown sharks, sand tigers and dogfish added another dimension to one’s fishing. Again, striped bass were the target of those brown (sandbar) sharks. We saw numbers of cownose stingrays and skate, oyster toadfish and other miscellaneous bottom fish, like gray trigger and ladyfish. As Fall rolled in, the fishery began to bulk up while reef fish fed aggressively before edging into deeper water. Short fish were annoying to say the least, but eyeopening catches did turn heads. See page 14

SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Ouellette Leaves Legacy at Westbrook and Daniel Hand By Serenity J. Bishop Sports Editor

Brooke Ouellette has had an exceptional four-year career at Westbrook High School. As a member of the Westbrook field hockey and outdoor track teams, as well as the Daniel Hand Ice Hockey coop, Ouellette is one of the most decorated athletes in the area. As a freshman field hockey player, she earned Honorable Mention All–Shoreline Conference honors, followed by First Team All–Shoreline Conference recognition during her sophomore, junior, and senior seasons. She was also named Shoreline Conference Player of the Year as both a junior and senior and earned Class S All-State honors her sophomore through senior years. Ouellette completed her high school field hockey career with 99 career points, which ranks first all-time during the Westbrook-Lyme-Old Lyme co-op team and third all-time in Westbrook school history alone. In outdoor track, she previously held the Westbrook record in the mile, and this winter was named a team captain for the ice hockey team, which serves as a combined hockey team that serves Hand, Branford, Haddam-Killingworth, Cromwell, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and Valley Regional. In addition to her athletic success, Brooke has excelled academically. She was recognized as a Shoreline Conference Scholar Athlete and earned the NFHCA Scholar of Distinction Award from her sophomore through senior years, demonstrating a strong commitment to her academics alongside her athletic pursuits. Westbrook’s Director of Athletics, Caitlin Eichler, said Ouellette has left an historic mark on Westbrook and neighboring communities. She said the senior standout’s success is a reflection of the kind of person she is. “Beyond her impressive list of accolades, Brooke is a leader within our athletic programs and a positive role model for younger student-athletes,” Eichler said. “Her work ethic, competitiveness, and commitment to her teams have made a lasting impact on the Westbrook athletic community.” For Ouellette, her athletic journey began on the ice hockey rink before also picking up field hockey in middle school. Her mother, Jodi, signed her up for field hockey and while Ouellette refused to participate at first she ultimately fell in love with the sport.

Sports Person Week of the

This past season, she helped lead the Westbrook field hockey co-op team to the Shoreline Conference Championship. The 1-0 victory over North Branford marked the first ever conference title in the co-op era. Ouellette said with all of team and individual success, the one honor that sticks out above the rest is her back-to-back Shoreline Conference Player of the Year awards the past two seasons. She said the award was never something she thought about, but one she appreciated due to the criteria. “The all-state honors were great, but honestly the Player of the Year awards were the best for me because it’s just one person that gets that award and to get it two years in a row I feel like it’s very uncommon,” Ouellette said. “I’m just very proud of myself that I was able to achieve that in such a competitive conference.” Some internal fuel that gave Ouellette the motivation to go out and stack her athletic resume stemmed from a moment during her freshman year. Each day she walked through the gym she would see the names on the banners of previously great players and would picture her name up on the wall with the rest of them. From the second she stepped onto any athletic field or rink she carried that motivation with her, but most importantly, she didn’t allow her own individual desires consume her. She always played with and for her team, and when or if the individual recognition came, she celebrated then after the season. “I don’t think I ever expected myself to be able to achieve all that,” she said. “I definitely feel like I stepped up in my junior year. I went from scoring just under 10 goals my sophomore year to scoring around 20 goals my junior year. So that was amazing, but I just hope that what I did can inspire the younger girls to want to do that and keep the program strong.” Westbrook field hockey coach Janet Dickey called Ouellette the heart and soul of the team. The senior captain was always talented, but it was the leadership that allowed her to blossom into the player she is. Her ability to lead by example and to

Photo courtesy of Brooke Ouellette

Brooke Ouellette named field hockey Shoreline Conference Player of the Year in both junior and senior seasons.

encourage allowed the rest of the team to develop and play to her level. “When she started as a freshman, we could see the potential in her to be a leader. It’s been fun to kind of mentor her through all of that and watch her develop not only as a player, but as a leader,” Dickey said. “She’s also a captain for the ice hockey team, so it’s nice to see it put into other sports. She’s just a phenomenal young lady, and a good friend to everybody on the team.” Dickey also acknowledged Ouellette’s work ethic, as another quality that set her apart from the crowd. She said Ouellette was simply not fine with being good and always worked on different aspects of her game. “The first thing that Brooke brings and has brought is her work ethic. She saw areas of her game that she wanted to work on, so she worked on them. She worked in the offseason. She joined whatever clubs or clinics she could to strengthen the weaker parts of her game,” Dickey said. “She was someone who loves the game. You have to have a passion and a love for this game.”

Next year, Ouellette will be continuing her field hockey career at Roger Williams University. However, for now she is the process of helping build the Daniel Hand co-op Ice hockey team into a winning program. Last season, Hand struggled to reel off many wins and this season has started sluggish out the gate with an 0-4 record. Hand has fallen to Guilford, Hamden, Hall and Avon, but Ouellette and the rest of the team is optimistic about the season going forward. “Last season, we had a tough season. We did not win any games, so we’re honestly just trying to rebuild this year. We have a lot of younger girls. We haven’t won a game yet, but we’re looking to win some games moving forward,” Ouellette said. “We definitely have some teams that we can beat. I’m just trying to get through the season and enjoy myself because this will be like the last year that I play competitive hockey.” Ouellette and Daniel Hand return to the rink Thursday, Jan. 8 in a rematch against Guilford at 3:10 p.m.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • SPORTS

Valley Regional Boys in a Groove after Shaky Start

Schedules VALLEY REGIONAL b

Friday, Jan. 9: at Haddam Killingworth at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13: vs. Coginchaug at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: at Hale Ray at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 10: at Eagles Hockey at 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: vs. Amity at 6:15 p.m.

Boys Basketball

Boys Ice Hockey (East Haven Coop)

b b

Girls Basketball Friday, Jan. 9: vs. Haddam Killingworth at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: at Coginchaug at 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: vs. Hale Ray at 5:30 p.m.

Girls Hockey (Daniel Hand Coop) Thursday, Jan. 8: vs. Guilford at 3:10 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11: vs. Hall at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: vs. Masuk at 4 p.m.

The Fishing Year in Review for 2025 Continued from page 12 Blackfish were peppered by fishers with jigs and rigs - some of which scored some nice 8-10 pound togs but most fell either short or within 3-5 pounds. There was about a week or so of some fairly good blitz action - something that the season needed. Lowering Fall temps also brought in bonito and sparse runs of false albacore. The better runs were definitely out by the ‘pork chop’ and the vineyard where hardtails proved to be impressive. Farther out, the tuna bite was good inbetween weather fronts and prior to the bluefin shutdown. As was expected, after migrating striped bass slipped through and out of the Sound on their coastal journey south, holdover ‘linesiders’ began staging before entering their winter tidal rivers. Once water temperatures tanked in the salt, it was ‘Sayonara’ unless fishing tidal rivers, specifically the Housatonic lower tidal river where ‘new’ regulations are meant to have a serious deterrence effect on poachers, was a destination. After that, it was deep water, warm-railed headboat fishing, soft water for trout and lake/pond fishing for either open or hard water excursions. Oh yes, and of course, there were trips to our southern warm waters and the tropics. b

On The Water: One of the few December surprises, Winter Storm Devin delivered a mix of everything - most notably, snowpacks and ice covering the shoreline! The area remained behind a bitter cold front with low pressure remaining to the north bringing a long-lasting cold airmass. A cold front moved through with low pressure that developed east of the area. High pressure finally built followed by a another cold front then followed both high and low pressure pressure systems. Pre-dawn air temperatures dipped to

single digits as daytime ones barely topped the teens with some days hitting above freezing. Long Island Sound water temps dropped to 35ºF, dense fog blanketed the shoreline and gale force winds drove seas from relatively calm to times of 8-10 feet before Gale Warnings were dropped. The mix of windy, wintry conditions saw limited hard water action and plenty of false flags as south of I-95 played with intermittent, nearly ‘safe’ ice. Trout and Atlantic salmon kept open water in play along with a few other species like pickerel and panfish. Trips to our southern warm waters increased along with those to the Caribbean while up north, headboat trips battled a schedule fraught with wind. Time was spent by many anglers getting a jump on gear prep for the upcoming 2026 season. Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media. Or, contact Captain Morgan for a fly fishing trip of a lifetime to a remote national or international fishing destination. For all things fishy including ice fishing, bait, the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rod/reel service and repair, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2026 licenses/permits and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison or call 203-245-8665 for updated winter hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better. Tight Lines, Captain Morgan captainmorganusa@hotmail.com captainmorgan-fish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa

By Serenity J. Bishop Sports Editor

The Valley Regional boys’ basketball team got off to a slow start to begin the season this year. The team entered the regular season already identifying several challenging areas, but the first three games quickly showcased where the Warriors needed to develop in. The young, and inexperienced roster dropped their first three games of the season with losses to Morgan, East Hampton and Kaynor Tech, but in their last two game since the boy’s basketball team has began to settle down, and find a rhythm. Valley Regional has relled off back-toback wins against Goodwin Tech and North Branford last week to improve to 23 in their first five games. Valley Regional coach Kevin Woods said despite the inital challenges right out of the gate, the team has started to get healthy, which has translated to consecutive victories. “It’s been a challenging start just because I’ve had some people sick and some people out, so getting a consistent lineup has been a challenge,” Woods said. “I think we’re at a point where we’re just about full strength right now, and definitely the last couple of games we’re playing better. Dealing with those challenges has been difficult to say the least to start, but now that we settled in we’re in a good place right now.” Valley Regional is young. Three of the five starters are sophomores and what often comes along with youth, are mistakes. The Warriors have been prone to turnovers early in the season, but have even shown progression in that are over the last five games. Wood said taking care of the basketball is one of the main areas of focus, as the

HIGH

Tides ESSEX

Jan. 8 to Jan. 14

season continues. He saidsince the team is younger, they often are smaller than opposing teams so ball security is crucial it maintain success and being competitive. “Taking care of the basketball is one of the areas that we’ve needed to get better at and we have been better at,” Woods said. “Defense has been an area that we’re trying to get stronger at as well. We’re pretty good at putting the ball in the basket. We got some good shooters, but sometimes we’re a little overmatched. Last season, the Warriors advanced to the conference tournament, but fell one game short of reaching the state tournament. This year, they are aiming to reach both tournaments and finish with a winning record. The team is led by senior Noah Dolinsky. Woods describes Dolinksy as a pure scorer and a impressive shooter. He has developed his ability to drive to the basket, and has played aggressive when taking it into the paint. Next is junior Tavis Filacchione, who is describe as a big shooting guard at 6’2. He can play both guard spots and play low in the paint . His versatility allows him to put his back to the basket and creates a mismatch for many defenders. Brady Evans is the team’s point guard. Simply put, the Warriors are 0-3 without Evans and 2-0 with him. He can handle the ball and is simply a hard player to replace when he is not in the game. Logan Pruem and Mike Spencer round out the guard depth. Tanner McIntyre also provide a staple force in the lineup, who is very coachable and understand the game. Valley Regional returns to the court Friday, Jan. 9 at Haddam-Killingworth at 7 p.m.

Day 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

A.M. 2:21 3:17 4:13 5:11 6:09 7:04 7:55

P.M. 2:40 3:34 4:32 5:34 6:35 7:30 8:18

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GUTTER SERVICES

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756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT

SPECIALIZING IN WINDOW CLEANING, SPECIALIZING IN RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING

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licensed /insured HIC #0678344

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DRYWALL

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HIC # 0646127

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Repairs • Remodeling

WINDOWS DOORS SIDING GUTTERS ROOFING

Guilford, CT.

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Moss, Algae, Black Stains

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

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Call Scott’s Gutters 203-466-0520 HIRE A VETERAN HIC #0634550

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JANUARY 8, 2026

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Landscape & Lawncare Services

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

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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Photo courtesy of Marcia Simon

The crew wave from the bowsprit of the Royal Clipper while anchored off the coast of Italy, part of the Star Clippers line of tall ships.

Photo courtesy of Marcia Simon

A man relaxes on the beach on Shoal Bay in Anguilla. Ferry service is available from St. Martin.

Travel Tips and Trends for 2026: Small Groups and New Places Press Release from Friendly Group Travel

New destinations, longer journeys, and off-season perks are among the travel trends you can expect for 2026, which is looking like an active year for solo, train, and mindful travel, according to the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and Marcia Simon of Friendly Group Travel. “People are seeking value, escape, and something new,” says Simon, owner of Friendly Group Travel in Westbrook. Cruises continue to draw growing numbers of passengers. While many enjoy the entertainmentfilled monster ships with thousands of people onboard, more people are opting for small instead. River cruise and expedition ships carry between 50 and 600 passengers interested in more immersive cultural and nature experiences. The ability to dock in smaller ports that are less crowded provide a deeper sense of authenticity when arriving at a destination. “Small ships do less environmental harm to oceans and destinations. Climate-friendly solutions are easier to implement, including solar and wind energy while moving and shore power when docked,” says Simon. River cruise destinations now include the Columbia and Magdalena Rivers in South America, the Nile in Egypt, Mekong in Cambodia, as well as less traveled rivers in France. The Danube and Rhine, as well as America’s Mississippi and Snake

Photo courtesy of Marcia Simon

The stairway onboard the SS Maria Theresa, part of the Uniworld river cruise line, offers a comfortable sense of casual luxury.

rivers, continue to be most popular for first-time river cruisers. Expedition ships to Antarctica, Alaska, Galapagos Islands, and Greenland are accessible to anyone who has a mind for exploration. Norway’s coast, dotted with small islands and archipelagos, is becoming a bucket list trip for both the Northern Lights in winter and midnight sun in summer. Here are 10 tips and trends for travel for 2026, according to Simon:

1. For international travel, check your passport to make sure the expiration date is at least six months from your date of arrival at your destination. 2. For domestic air travel, you’ll need to bring your passport or a REAL-ID document, which most often is a qualified driver’s license. 3. The lowest prices and smallest crowds can be found offseason and shoulder season, while giving you a true feeling of

local life in a destination. 4. Puerto Rico is popular because of its weather, beaches, rain forest and nonstop flights from local airports. Because Puerto Rico is a US territory, you can visit without a passport, currency exchange or international phone plan. 5. The Caribbean islands have their own vibes. For example, Aruba and St. Martin/St. Maarten are known for great beaches and vibrant restaurant

scenes. Anguilla as well as Turks and Caicos are known for having some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world. Curacao, outside of the hurricane belt, is the new hot spot with new beachfront resorts. 6. More resorts have added accommodations for multigenerational families. A three- or fourbedroom space with en-suite bathrooms, kitchen and private pool can easily accommodate families who don’t want to eat all meals in restaurants. 7. For solo travel: Small, single groups of like-minded travelers make it easier to go solo without being totally on your own. Especially for older women, these trips are a readily available and easy way to find new travel buddies. 8. Small ships, because they have fewer cabins, sell out quickly. Plan ahead or take advantage of last-minute travel opportunities due to someone else’s cancellation. 9. For train travel, new sleeper trains are being added in Europe. Sleep in a private cabin instead of a hotel when moving between cities or countries. Amtrak offers train/hotel packages across the United States. 10. Earn and redeem loyalty points through Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Best Western and IHG, all of which are buying boutique hotels throughout the world. For more information, contact Marcia Simon at 860-399-0191 or welcome@friendlygrouptravel. com.

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Calendar for the Week of January 8, 2026

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

National Theatre Live in HD Encore: The Fifth Step: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 100 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 8

FRIDAY, JAN. 9

Sashiko Mending Workshop for Beginners: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a hands-on workshop for adults 19 years and older. Materials provided; participants may bring an item to mend. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Auditions for Annie Jr.: 1 to 3:30 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. AudiPeace Crane Folding: 1 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Tweens Writing: 4 to 5:15 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 tions are for grades 4 to 8. Free to audition but registraRte. 81. Features a program for ages 9 to 12 to write and Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features an inaugural tion is required. Hosted by the Guilford Youth & Family share their stories with others. Participants explore differ- Services (GY&FS) Family Theatre. Performances will be event that continues every Thursday to fold and complete 1,000 origami peace cranes. The purpose is to bring ent kinds of narratives, including fantasy, family stories, held at the Guilford High School Performing Arts Center essays, and research. This group is based on a workshop on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28. To register, people together and find inner peace while folding the model. A writing prompt is completed and shared at cranes. Once 1,000 cranes are reached, they will be call 203-453-8047. For info, visit guilfordyouthandfamilyeach meet-up. The shared prompt is then developed into services.org. donated to a charity of the group's choosing. No experience needed. Directions and materials provided. For info a piece to share at the next meeting. Participant sharing of written work is not mandatory. For info or to register or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Healthy Kids Today, Healthier Futures Tomorrow: The (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthliRole of Food Policy: 3 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memobrary.org. Creative Crafts with Jesse: Paper Quilling Make-up: rial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Pre2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston sented by Susan Mayne, adjunct professor at the Yale One Night in Memphis (Tribute to Sun Record Artists: School of Public Health and former director of the U.S. Post Rd., Madison. For ages 18 and over. Features a Presley, Perkins, Lewis, and Cash): 8 p.m. The Katharine Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Food Safety make-up class for missed paper quilling classes, including those to make pumpkins, a coastal scene, flower, and Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Sayand Applied Nutrition. Sponsored by Tilde Café. Free and brook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit fall tree. Materials provided. For info or to register open to all ages. For info or to register (required), visit thekate.org. (required), visit scrantonlibrary.org/events. tildecafe.org. Read to a Therapy Dog: 5 to 6 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Children in grades SATURDAY, JAN. 10 three to five can read to Libby, a trained therapy dog. Who’s Been Walking in These Woods? A Family Participants may bring a book or select one from the library. Registration required. For info or to register, email Nature Hike: 10 a.m. Falls River Preserve, Falls River Drive, Ivoryton. Meet near the parking area on Falls River Mary Wilhelm at mwillhelm@nbranfordlibraries.org. Drive. Features a one-hour hike led by local naturalist Phil Miller. No dogs. Hosted by Essex Library, Essex Land Teen Movie Series Night with Candy Potluck: 5:45 to Trust, and the Appalachian Mountain Club. For trail 7:45 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr., maps, visit essexlandtrust.org. For weather-related Westbrook. Part of a two-part movie series for teens in updates, visit facebook.com/EssexLibrary. For info or to grades 8 to 12 with a candy potluck. For info about the register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlimovie call 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org. brary.org.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting: 3 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For teens ages 13 to 18 to participate in library planning, programming, and advisory activities. Snacks provided. Registration is encouraged. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Whales, Whaling, and Whalemen: A History of 19thCentury Whaling: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by Mystic Seaport Museum. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

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

Harlem Wizards Come to Clinton: 7 p.m. The Morgan School, 71 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features a fundraiser event with the Harlem Wizards. Tickets: general admission $18, reserved seating $30, courtside plus seats $50. Service fees apply. Proceeds benefit The Morgan School Class of 2026 Project Graduation to provide seniors with a fun and safe way to celebrate on graduation night. For tickets, click on the event at harlemwizards.com/schedule-tickets. For info, email morganprojectgrad26@gmail.com.

Loeb’s Weekend Wildlife: Living Dragons: 11•a.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features an animal education program about reptiles with Ranger Russ. For info or to register, call 203•453•8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Teen Cooking Class: Mini Donuts: 11 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a cooking workshop for teens focused on making mini donuts. Tasting included. Registration is encouraged. For info or to register, call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Met in HD Live: I Puritani: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 225 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Lions Club 45th Annual Senior Dinner: 5:30 p.m. Deep River Congregational Church, 1 Church St. Doors open at 5 p.m. Seniors from the Deep River and Chester area are invited to a free sit-down turkey dinner. For info or to RSVP (required) by Jan. 9, call Deep River Hardware at 860-526-2776.

SATURDAY, JAN. 10 AND SUNDAY, JAN. 11 VIBE Cabaret: Murder on the Orient Express: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, noon and 3 p.m. Daniel Hand High School, 286 Green Hill Rd., Madison. For info, visit dhhsvibe.com.

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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Connecticut Theaters Kick Off 2026 with New Shows and Musicals By Karen Isaacs Columnist

Aisle

Hartford Stage Opens 2026: Hartford Stage is the first Connecticut theater to offer a new production in 2026. The Cottage is a take on the classic 1920s drawing room comedy set in England and inspired by Noel Coward. A woman, convinced she’s married the wrong man, telegrams that message to both her husband and her lover’s wife. They aren’t the only ones to arrive at the cottage. It runs from Friday, Jan. 16, through Sunday, Feb. 8. Tickets are available at HartfordStage.org. Concert Version: Brief Cameo Productions is presenting a concert version of the musical Side Show from Friday, Jan. 16, to Sunday, Jan. 18 at the Centerbrook Meeting House. The musical tells the story of Violet and Daisy Hilton, conjoined twins who became famous performers in the

1930s. Tickets are available at BriefCameoProductions.com. Busy Weekend at Goodspeed: The 20th Anniversary Festival of New Musicals is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 17, through Sunday, Jan. 18. It features staged readings of three new musicals, two cabaret evenings, workshop sessions, and a Q&A with the creators. Tickets are available for the entire weekend or for single events. For more information or tickets, visit Goodspeed.org. Sunday Broadway Concert Series: The Legacy Theater’s popular Sunday concert series will feature six well-known Broadway performers in solo shows. The series will feature three Tony Award nominees: Matt Doyle on Feb. 22, Beth Leavel on Aug. 16, and Norm Lewis on Oct. 25.

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

ON THE

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SUNDAY, JAN. 11 Documentary Screening: Inhabitants: 1 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a screening of Inhabitants: Indigenous Perspectives on Restoring Our World and a talk by Jesse Rose and Clan Mother Shoran Waupatukuay Piper of the Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe, a Connecticut state-recognized tribe. Hosted by the Branford Land Trust. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Also performing are Patti Murin (Frozen) on March 8, Adrianna Hicks (Some Like It Hot) on Aug. 30, and Sam Gravitte (Wicked) on Oct. 18. Subscriptions are now available at LegacyTheatreCT.org. TheaterWorks Arts Award: TheatreWorks Hartford has received the Joyce C. Willis Equity in the Arts Award from the Roberts Foundation for the Arts. This competitive grant will fund a residency and development of a new play, which will be part of TheaterWorks 2026-’27 season. Paloma Nozicka, a Mexican-American writer, will develop Both, a world premiere play. Musical Spoof: If you need a laugh, Guttenberg! The Musical! tells the story of a pair of aspiring playwrights who audition their new, big, splashy musical about Gutenberg for possible investors. The two play every role, hoping for that Broadway contract. It runs at Playhouse on Park in West Hartford from Wednesday, Jan. 21, to Sunday, Feb. 8. Tickets are available at PlayhouseOnPark.org. Extra Performances: March is two months away, but ACT-CT of Ridgefield has added performances from March 11 to

requested for non-Essex Meadows residents. For info, visit essexhistory.org/events. General Putnam: 4 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St. Features a presentation about General Putnam by Kenneth Noll, a community theater performer in Storrs and professor emeritus of microbiology at the University of Connecticut. Sponsored by the Friends of the Chester Public Library. To register, contact the Chester Public Library at 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org. For info, visit chesterctlibrary.com/adultprograms. On a Winter's Night: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Story Time and Workshop on Kindness and Friendship: 2 to 3 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Road, Stony Creek. Features a special story time and hands-on activities led by local author MONDAY, JAN. 12 Sara Levine. Appropriate for all ages. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 203-488Movement and Music with More to Say: 10:45 to 8702 or visit wwml.org. 11:15 a.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Winter-themed music and movement class Opening Reception for First Impressions: 34th Annual for children ages 2 to 5. Registration is required. For info Associate Artists Show: 2 to 4 p.m. Lyme Art Association, or to register (required), call 203-488-1441. 90 Lyme St., Old Lyme. The show runs through Friday, Feb. 20. For info, call 860-434-7802 or visit lymeartassoci- Kids’ Ping-Pong Party: 5 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memoation.org. rial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features openplay ping-pong for children and teens. For info, call 203Winter Lecture Series: The Burning of New London: 245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com. 3:30 p.m. Hamilton Hall, Essex Meadows, 30 Bokum Rd. Second in the Essex Historical Society’s Winter Lecture Social Justice Book Discussion (America 250 Event): Series on the American Revolution. Features a talk by Eric 6:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Lehman, author of Homegrown Terror: Benedict Arnold Old Saybrook. Book: Espionage and Enslavement in the and the Burning of New London. Doors open at 3 p.m. Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend and ElizaSeating is first-come, first-served. Registration is beth by Claire Bellerjeau and Tiffany Yecke Brooks.

March 15 for its production of Frozen. For more information, visit ActOfCT.org. NYC Notes: Four shows closed before the New Year started. Two of them, the star-studded revivals of Art and Waiting for Godot, were hits; the other two, the play Little Bear Ridge and the musical Queen of Versailles, were financial failures although the play received positive reviews. January is a great time to catch a Broadway play or musical. With tourists gone and the holidays over, many shows will have discount tickets available. TKTS is a reliable source for same-day discount tickets and Today’s Tix is another source. Both have apps that will give you information on which shows are offering discounts and other details. Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident. To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Copies of the book will be available for checkout at the library. Virtual participation via Zoom is an option. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Just Desserts Book Club: 7 p.m. Ivoryton Library, Ivoryton. Book: The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow. No registration required. Limited number of physical books at the library. For info, call 860-767-1252 or email staff@ivorytonlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 13 Met in HD Encore: I Puritani: 10 a.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 210 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Gardening with Mosses: Noon to 2 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Features a talk on moss ecology, horticulture, and ideas on how moss can be utilized in the garden. Presented by Christine Cook, owner of Mossaics Ecological Landscape Design. Part of the Leete’s Island Garden Club monthly meeting. Guests are welcome. For info or to register, contact 203-453-0780 or kayclaiborn@comcast.net.

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JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

Comic Crew: Bad Guys: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 8 to 12. Features games, contests, The Creative and Compassionate Art of Seeing Others crafts, or activities based on the series. For info or to regDeeply with David Brooks: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: ister (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit essexliHow to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply. brary.org. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to Your Heart and You: Gender-Specific Symptoms of register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. Heart Attacks: 4 to 5 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features a The Creative and Compassionate Art of Seeing Others presentation by James Murray Jr. examining how heart Deeply with David Brooks: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: attack symptoms can differ by gender and why early How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply. recognition is critical. For info or to register (required), Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org. the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit Acoustic Artists Storyteller Series: Terri LaChance: libraryc.org/essexlib. 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features stories and songs paired with picArt with Kristin: Cardinals and Birch Tree Collage: tures and visuals. For participants of all ages. For info or 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Bos- to register, visit actonlibrary.org/events. ton Post Rd., Madison. Led by local artist and educator Kristin Cafferty. For children ages 5 to 8. For info or to Author Talk: Lauren LaRusso: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Bookregister (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlisellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Beyond Infibrary.org. delity: How to Turn the End of Your Relationship into the Beginning of Your Life. For info or to register (required), Wacky Wildlife: Moose: 5:30 to 6 p.m. Atwater Memorial call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Participants learn about moose and make a moose craft. Recommended for ages 6 to 11. For info or to register THURSDAY, JAN. 15 (required), call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranBook Club: Noon to 2 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, ford.librarycalendar.com. 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Book: The Berry Pickers: A Novel by Amanda Peters. For info or to register, call 203LEGO Stem Club: 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com. 301 Rte. 81. For grade 1 to 4. Project for the session is Continued from page 21

foosball. Participants will use the STEM steps to solve a problem, plan and create a design, and then test their project. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. The Art of 18th-Century Chocolate Making (America 250 Event): 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features historical chocolatemaking techniques and authentic methods from the 1700s. Attendees will enjoy samples of the chocolate products made on-site. Presented by Robert Lecce of Pewter Pot Chocolates. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Pickin’ Party: 6 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 14 Designing with Containers: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Evergreen Woods, 88 Notch Hill Rd., North Branford. Hosted by the Guilford Garden Club. Presented by Rene Marsh, founder and owner of A Simpler Place in Monroe where she is a garden designer, horticulturist, and flower farmer. Free and open to the public. For info, visit guilfordgardenclub.org/events.

STEM Challenge: Build a Bridge: 4 to 4:45 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a hands-on engineering activity for children in K to grade 4. For info or to register (required), call 203-4881441. Teddy Bear Clinic: 5 to 6 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Children ages 2 to 10 bring stuffed animals for a pretend medical check-up. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com. Shoreline Opera Club Discussion of the Met in HD Live Broadcast: I Puritani: 5:30 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Open to all. For info, email ShorelineOperaClub@gmail.com. American Girl Doll Club: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children in grades 1 through 4. Features a story or discussion, activities, and a craft from a different history time period. Dolls don’t have to be American Girl. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Virtual Art Talk: Uncovering a Masterpiece: 6:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Features curator Mallory Mortillaro discussing the authentication of an Auguste Rodin sculpture. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Shoreline Sailing Club Event: 7 p.m. Clark Memorial Field, 210 Elm St., Old Saybrook. For active singles 35 and over. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Cost: free for members and first-time guests, $10 for others. BYOB. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com. In Public: 50 years of Candid Street Photography with George Schaub: 7 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. For info, email schaubphoto@gmail.com. Concert by Albert Lee: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 16 Friday Night “Oldie” Film: 7 to 9 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Not rated. Doors open at 6:50 p.m. Light refreshments provided by the Friends of the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library. For info, including the name of the movie, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org. Miss Hysteria: 7:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org. Concert by Kashmir (Tribute Led Zeppelin): 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Cabaret Performance by Rona Siddiqui: 10 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 17 Saturday Sleuths Book Club: 10 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: She’s Not Sorry by Mary Kubica. Snacks will be provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Winter Family Painting Workshop: 10 a.m. to noon. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For families with children ages 6 to 12. Led by Valley Regional High School art teacher Jessica Stedman. For info or to register Art Talk with Curator Mallory Mortillaro: The Discovery of a Masterpiece: 6:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Sponsored (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit essexlibrary.org. by the Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a talk on how Mortillaro identified and authenticated an Auguste Rodin sculpture of Napoleon Bonaparte hiding in plain sight in New Jersey. Second in a two-part series, “Exciting Discoveries in Art History.” Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or See page 24 visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Photo by George Schaub

In the waning days of the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans (better known as the World’s Fair), the grounds were a bit of a shambles and the crowds were very thin. Buskers set up their high-wire act in a fenced-in corner off the midway. A clown obliged for the photo.

Photo by George Schaub

This billboard with a giant eye sat outside the main entrance to the Photokina trade fair in Germany, 2010. The photographer waited for something to happen, and soon enough a group of gentlemen in suits lined up in front of it.

On the day this photo was shot, the light was brilliant and a walker cast a shadow that joined the shadows of architecture in Sevilla, 2023.

Guilford Library Hosts In Public: A Candid Street Photography Press Release from George Schaub

Guilford resident George Schaub presents In Public, an exhibit that joins photographic imagery with commentary from 50 years of candid street photography. The show takes place on Thursday, Jan. 15, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Guilford Free Library, 67 Park Street. The presentation is intended to encourage both phone and digital camera users to explore the potential of a visual study of human nature and the human experience through their images. Aside from being a wonderful travel journal, the images can become even more valued as an inward-looking examination that joins the photographer to the cast of characters who share life’s stage. Schaub explains, “Having been raised during the time when Life, Look, and the New York Daily News—which billed itself as the ‘Picture Newspaper’—were in wide cirPhoto by George Schaub culation, I became aware of the work of Eisenstadt, Gene A sweeper in Bangkok (1982) resting in an alcove with a Smith, and Russell Lee, and later the work of the Bresgrace and elegance struck the photographer's eye. son, Winogrand, WeeGee, and other ‘street’ photographers. He continues, “When I eventually got my hands on a photographs of people and their activities, both candid camera, and later, through my work that allowed me to and ‘permission’ posed.” travel more extensively, I gravitated towards making Schaub adds, “A year or three in the wedding and PR

photo game also honed my skills of interacting with strangers and made me much less shy about taking their photos. While there are rules and lines that should not be crossed, I always took the attitude that with a nod and a wink, it’s OK to take the picture.” b

About George Schaub Guilford resident George Schaub taught and lectured at workshops and universities in the United States and abroad. He served as an adjunct professor in the photography department at the New School/Parsons School of Design in New York City for 20 years and authored over 20 books on photography. He served as editor and editorial director at numerous enthusiast and professional photographic magazines, including Shutterbug, Popular Photography, and Studio Photography & Design. His images have been published in a wide range of publications, including The Sunday New York Times, Travel & Leisure, Travel Holiday, New Mexico Magazine, Camera Arts, and Lens Magazine. The selection of work in this program is from an anthology entitled In Public: George Schaub 1970-2020, published by Blurb Press (www.blurb.com).

24 Continued from page 22 Weaving Mug Rugs Workshop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Participants will complete four tabby patterns inspired by classic fabric arts: a ninepatch quilt block, plaid, gingham, and bordered square. Cost: $37.80 for members, $42 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $12 is payable with the tuition. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-453-5947. Stop Motion Animation Workshop: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. Drop-ins welcome by space is limited. Participants may stay longer to finish their projects. For info or to register, contact 860-5260018 or ChesterKidLib@gmail.com.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING Concert by the Amish Outlaws: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Ser20th Anniversary Festival Concert: 9:30 p.m. The Good- vice, and Belonging. Hosted by the Chester Public Library speed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Fes- through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit tival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. 8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 18

Inaugural Consignment Art Sale: Noon to 4 p.m. Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek (CBSRZ), 55 East Kings Hwy., Chester. Features original prints, drawings, and paintings from area collections. Works by the followFrames in Film Encore: Hopper: An American Love Story: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, ing artists will be for sale: Irving Amen, Hella Bailin, Nohra Barros, James Britton, William Hogarth 1835 reprint, John 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big Massimino, Josef Presser, Lynn Shaler, and many more. A screen, in collaboration with the Florence Griswold portion of the proceeds benefits CBSRZ. To RSVP, email Museum. Running time: 90 minutes. For info or tickets, office@cbsrz.org. For info, email Pat Sher at CBSRZcall 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. gallery@gmail.com. Festival Seminars: 1 to 4:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

Foolproof: 1 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

Creative Crafts with Jesse: Birthday Cards: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Participants create three birthday cards using stamping, embossing, and die-cut techniques. Registration required. For info or to register, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Sunday Afternoon Concert: The Kenn Morr Band: 2 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features music by Kenn Morr with bandmates Tom Hagymasi (violin), Pat Ryan (bass), and Tido “T-Bone” Holtkamp (drums). Free and open to all. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Teams work on identical puzzles within a set time; prizes awarded to the first three teams to finish. Team size: two to four participants. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Winter Lecture Series: The Woman Who Printed the Declaration: 3:30 p.m. Hamilton Hall, Essex Meadows, 30 Bokum Rd. Concluding program in the Essex Historical Society’s Winter Lecture Series on the American Revolution. Features a talk by Dr. Emily Sneff, author of the forthcoming When the Declaration of Independence was News. Doors open at 3 p.m. Seating is first-come, firstserved. Registration is requested for non-Essex Meadows residents. For info, visit essexhistory.org/events.

A Tribute to Prince: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by Purple Luscious Love. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a buffet dinner. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will be seated at tables with other guests. For info or reservations, call 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events. Festival Dinner at Gelston House: 5:30 p.m. Gelston House, 8 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-8738668 or visit goodspeed.org. Winter Dance Party: 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. F Word: 7:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 20

Meet the Writers Q&A: 3:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

MONDAY, JAN. 19 41st Annual MLK Breakfast: 8:30 a.m. Branford High School (BHS), 185 E. Main St. Features a presentation by civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale, “Now Is the Time to Take a Stand,” with music by the BHS Music Makers. Hosted by the MLK Heritage Foundation and Branford High School. Tickets: $20 general admission, $5 for students. Includes full breakfast. Proceeds benefit scholarships for BHS students who embody the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For info or tickets, visit mlkheritage.org.

Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-7671560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib. Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries. Chester Blood Pressure Clinic: 2 to 3 p.m. Chester Town Hall community room, 203 Middlesex Ave. Free for Chester seniors and community members. For info, contact Public Health Nurse Sherry Carlson at 860-661-3300 or Scarlson@crahd.net. Sip and Paint Polar Bears: 2 to 3 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For grades 2 to 4. Participants will follow step-by-step directions to paint a polar bear, learn new art techniques, and sip on healthy juice boxes (provided). Space and supplies are limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. Facts and Fibs Book Group: 3:30 p.m. Ivoryton Library, Ivoryton. Hosted by Mary Ann Pleva and Ginny Bliss. Book: Finding Me by Viola Davis. For info or to join, call 860-767-1252 or email staff@ivorytonlibrary.org. Pajama Story Time: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For families with children of all ages. For info or to sign up for a spot, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. Pickin’ Party: 6 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org. Author Event: Madeleine Dunnigan in Conversation with Marisa Helff: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Jean. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

See page 25

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

41st Annual MLK Day Breakfast Features Speaker, Music, and More Press Release from the MLK Heritage Foundation

Renowned civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale will be the featured speaker at the 41st annual MLK Day Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 19, at Branford High School, 185 East Main Street. Sponsored by the MLK Heritage Foundation and Branford Public Schools, the breakfast has become an annual tradition, bringing together hundreds of community members for an incredible morning of food, music, and inspiration. As a longtime 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 entitled “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. “Now is the time to make real the promise of democracy and transform our national elegy into a creative psalm of brotherhood,” Tisdale said. “Now is the time to lift our national policy from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of human dignity.” The MLK Day Breakfast promises to be an evocative morning.The event features a full breakfast prepared by the BHS Culinary Arts program and Branford Rotary and performances by the award-winning Branford High School Music Makers, as well as music by XX, YY, ZZ. Tickets cost $20 for general admission or $5 for students. “There is nothing in Branford quite like the MLK Breakfast,” said Mary FitzPerry, president of the MLK Heritage Foundation. “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

Continued from page 24 Parenting in the Smartphone Years: 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Parents and guardians will learn how to reset expectations with the Family Tech Agreement, spot red flags, lead the five must-have safety conversations, and partner with their child for healthier tech use. Part of the Family Tech Roadmap series. Hosted by the Center for Online Safety. For info or to register (required), visit centerforonlinesafety.com/haddam.

25 Greater Old Saybrook Chamber (GOSC) 2025 Annual Awards Night: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features a silent auction, a wine pull, live music, awards honoring community standouts, and more. Tickets: $45. For info or tickets, visit goschamber.com.

Metropolitan Opera Talk: The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay: 6•p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features a lecture on the opera adaptation of the novel. For info or to register, call Popcorn and PJs: Virtual Family Story 203•453•8282 or visit guilfordfreeliTime: 7 p.m. Online event. Features author brary.org. Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrator Jerry Jordan reading Unstoppable John, discussing Author Event: David Borges: 6:30 p.m. their creative process, answering quesRJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., tions, and leading a brief drawing activity. Madison. Book: Hurley's Heroes. For info or Cost: $10 for the secure link to the live to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or event; $30 for the full package, which visit rjjulia.com. includes the link, a signed copy of the book, popcorn, crayons, sketch pad, and Community Storyteller and Poetry additional materials shipped to the proSlam: 6:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 vided address. Presented by Read to Grow Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free in Branford. For info or to register, call and open to all. For info or to register, call 203-488-6800 or visit readtogrow.org. 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org/events.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21

Photo courtesy of Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder PC

The 41st annual MLK Day Breakfast will feature civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale.

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 Prizewinning author Jeffrey Stewart; Jane Elliott, creator of the Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes study; Vanessa Roberts, former U.S. attorney for the District of Connecticut; 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 groundbreaking Meals for the Mind, bimonthly evenings where 10 strangers from different backgrounds share a meal and simply get to know each other. For more information visit MLK Heritage.org.

Did a Connecticut Woman Kill Jack the Ripper?: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Atwater Memorial Shoreline Village Tea and Talk: 2 p.m. Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Parthenon Diner, 374 E. Main St., Branford. Features a presentation examining a hisFeatures a conversation with members of torical theory connecting a Connecticut Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to woman to the Jack the Ripper case. Virtual register, contact 203-747-5939 or participation by Zoom is an option. For info@ShorelineVillageCT.org. info or to register (required), visit northbranfordlibraries.org. Kate Classic Film: Adam's Rib: 2 and 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. THURSDAY, JAN. 22 For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Junior Librarians: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a new four-session Inside the World of Hummingbirds: program for ages 8 to 12 offering a 4 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. behind-the-scenes look at library operaFeatures a program on hummingbird tions with the children’s and teen Librarispecies, behaviors, adaptations, and con- ans. Participants will explore organizing servation concerns. Presented by Joe Att- materials, designing displays, planning water, conservation and education coorprograms, and more. Free. Commitment dinator for the Connecticut Audubon to all four sessions and celebration is Society’s Roger Tory Peterson (RTP) Estuexpected. For info or to register ary Center. Free and open to all. Registra- (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit tion required. For info or to register, call youressexlibrary.org. 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Colorful Paper Weaving: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For Migrate, Hibernate, and Adapt: 4 p.m. grades 1 to 3. Space and supplies are limEssex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a ited. For info or to register (required), call STEAM program for ages 5 to 10 led by 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthliSteward Outdoor Day School, exploring brary.org. how animals adapt to winter. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. See page 26

26 Continued from page 25 Connecticut River Ferries: Past, Present, and Future with Captain Paul Costello: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a talk on the histories of the ChesterHadlyme and the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury ferries, the challenges both ferries faced, the reason they survived, the improvements made to them over the decades, and the future of the two remaining ferries. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org. Drive-in Movie Night: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Decorate a file box with paper plates for wheels and bring it to the library for a “drive-in” movie. Participants can sit in the “car” (or on the floor) in the children’s room for the film showing. Popcorn served. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING Get Grounded for the New Year: EFT Tapping and Boundaries Workshop: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features a workshop led by energy practitioner Jess Leone introducing EFT tapping techniques focused on stress reduction and boundary setting. For info or to register (required), visit northbranfordlibraries.org.

Kids Create: Axolotl Keychains: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Kids ages 6 to 12 will design and assemble beaded axolotl keychains using colorful pony beads. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Fourth Annual Jigsaw Puzzle Competition: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Teams (maximum four members) race to complete a 500-piece puzzle. The winning team receives a gift card to a local business. Free and open to all. Limited seating. Sponsored by the Friends of the Acton National Theatre Live in HD Encore: Life of Pi: 7 p.m. Library. For info or to register (required), call 860-395The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., 3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 150 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 Turkish Coffee Tasting: 2 to 4 p.m. James Blackstone or visit thekate.org. Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Hosted by Peace Islands CT. Features presentations, demonstraAn Evening with Edgar Allan Poe: 7•p.m. Guilford Free tions, activities, and Q&A exploring Turkish coffee culLibrary, 67 Park St. Features a dramatic performance cele- ture. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library. brating the works of Poe. For info or to register, call Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 203•453•8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Friday Movie Matinee: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Popcorn and soda provided. Registration preferred. For info, including the movie title, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Concert by Suzanne O Davis: Tapestry: the Carole King Songbook: 3 and 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

A Tribute to The Eagles: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by The Eagles Experience. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a Concert by Ellis Paul: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cul- buffet dinner. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will tural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or be seated at tables with other guests. For info or reservatickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. tions, call 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events.

SATURDAY, JAN. 24 Winter in Broomstick Ledges: 8:30 a.m. Broomstick Ledges, Guilford. Meet at the Bluff Head parking lot on Route 77. Features a 3.5-mile hike with a steep section and some rocky portions. Hosted by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust (GLCT). Led by GLCT Director Sam Mandel. Precipitation may cancel. For info or weatherrelated updates, text 347-969-4178. Practice SAT Exam: 9 a.m. to noon. Virtual event. Features a full-length practice SAT hosted by the library in partnership with C2 Education. For info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. YMA Annex, 554 Woodward Ave., New Haven. Sponsored by the New Haven Philatelic Society. For info, visit nhps1914.com.

Lava Lamp Making Workshop: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Volunteer Fair: 10 a.m. to noon. James Blackstone Rd., Stony Creek. Features a hands-on workshop for chilMemorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Representatives from local nonprofits provide information on community dren exploring solubility and density while creating a work and volunteer opportunities. Free. For info, call 203- lava lamp to take home. Led by STEAM Dreamers LLC. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-8702 or 488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org. visit wwml.org.

Author Event: Jen Hatmaker: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Awake: A Memoir. For info or to register (required), call 203-2453959 or visit rjjulia.com.

FRIDAY, JAN. 23

SUNDAY, JAN. 25

Put the Phone Away, Let the Marbles Play: 10 to 11 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features a story with Mrs. Fig while adult caregivers and parents join a discussion with experts from the Shoreline Therapy Center on the topic, "Unplugging our Kids Without Losing Ourselves." Adults get practical tips, tricks, and strategies to help their family step away from screens, reclaim their time, and break the device habit. Co-sponsored by the Haddam-Killingworth Youth & Family Services, HK Unplugged, Shoreline Therapy Center, and the Killingworth Library. For info or to register (required), call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Essex Winter Series (EWS): Timeless Bonds and New Horizons: 3 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Features the inaugural Mihae Lee legacy concert with new Artistic Director Tara Helen O’Connor joined by Ani Kavafian, violin; Peter Wiley, cello; and Shai Wosner, piano. Part of the EWS 2026 Season, in the celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. Tickets: $45, general admission; $5, students through college. For info or tickets, call 860272-4572 or visit essexwinterseries.com. Who Were the Hammonassetts? The Interrelationship of Indigenous Communities at the Time of English Colonization: 4 p.m. Hubley Hall, First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln. Presented by Jim Powers. Sponsored by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Part of the 2026 Frederick Lee Lectures series. Admission: $5 suggested fee, free to MHS members. For info, call 203-245-4567 or office@madisonhistory.org. Concert by The Meadow Brothers and Belle of the Fall: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Tickets: $29. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

MONDAY, JAN. 26 Songs and Stories with Patti Smith: 7 p.m. The Lyman Center at SCSU, 501 Crescent St., New Haven. Book: Bread of Angels. Cost: $55, includes admission for one attendee and a copy of the book; $20, admission for one student. Sponsored by R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), call 203-2453959 or visit rjjulia.com.

TUESDAY, JAN. 27 AND WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 Barry and Bette: The Music of Bette Midler and Barry Manilow: 7:30 p.m. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, 297 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Madison Lyric Stage with tenor Marc Deaton in a tribute concert featuring songs such as Mandy, I Write the Songs, Wind Beneath My Wings, and The Rose. Includes guest artists. Part of the Summer Festival 2026 festival. Duration: Two hours with one intermission. Suitable for all audiences. For info and tickets, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org. See page 28

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Lyme Art Association Welcomes 2026 With Triple Shows Press Release from the Lyme Art Association

The Lyme Art Association (LAA) rings in the new year with First Impressions, its annual associate artists show, and Congratulations, a lovely show that exhibits the works of LAA’s newest elected artists. Running concurrently is a new show called The Artists Garden, which focuses on gardens as artistic inspirations. All three shows run from Friday, Jan. 9, through Friday, Feb. 20. Opening reception for all shows is Sunday, Jan. 11, from 2 to 4 p.m. First Impressions for 2026 is the LAA’s 34th annual associate artists show and recognizes the artistic work of its associate artist members. This annual exhibition showcases the varied approaches of representational artmaking created by LAA’s talented membership. Congratulations is an annual show that welcomes LAA’s newest elected artists, who are the cream of the crop and walk in the representational artist tradition of LAA’s founders. LAA elected artists are elected by their peers after a rigorous selection and evaluation process. This year’s new elected artists are Betsy Barry, Mike Laiuppa, Liane Philpotts, and Five Blessings from the Gasp, oil, by Mike Laiuppa Jeanne Carol Potter. The Artists Garden is a new show at the LAA and is inspired by the beauty of gardens. These cultivated spaces where nature and creativity intertwine have long been a source of inspiration and creativity. From lush florals to quiet corners, cultivated plots to imagined landscapes, this exhibition reflects on how artists see and interpret the garden as a place of growth, reflection, and renewal. The show is a celebration of the beauty, symbolism, and personal meaning of gardens.

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Tabasco, colored pencil, by Betsy Barry

About the Lyme Art Association Founded in 1914 by the American impressionists, the Lyme Art Association continues the tradition of exhibiting and selling representational artwork by its members and invited artists, as well as offering art instruction, lectures, and other public programs to the community. The Lyme Art Association is located at 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, in a building designed by architect Charles Adams Platt. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information, visit www.lymeartassociation.org.

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Eight Blue Ball Jars, watercolor, by Jeanne Carol Potter

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Glass Ceiling Pioneer, oil, by Liane Philpotts

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING Author Event: Kat Ashmore in Conversation with Diane Morrisey: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church, 26 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Book: Big Bites: Time to Eat!. Ticket options available. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Introduction to Sourdough: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Covers sourdough starter care, fermentation and proofing basics, dough shaping, and baking techniques. For info or to register (required), call 860-7671560 or visit essexlibrary.org.

Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: The God of the Woods: A Novel. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.

Author Event: Harper Ross in Conversation with Kristan Higgins: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: The Unwritten Rules of Magic. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: The God of the Woods: A Novel. Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with History Comes Alive: The History of Nintendo: 5 p.m. the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Interactive learning (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit event about Nintendo’s evolution for children. For info or libraryc.org/essexlib. to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore: 7 p.m.

Willoughby Book Talk: 7 to 8 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Book: When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén, translated from the Swedish by Alice Menzies. Held in the Keyes Gallery. For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

Continued from page 26

TUESDAY, JAN. 27 History of Nintendo Playable Museum: 3:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Retro Nintendo consoles and history on display. For info or to register, call 203453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Math Mania: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For elementary-aged children. Features games and activities to reinforce math skills. Focus for the session is addition. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Concert by Satisfaction (Tribute to The Rolling Online event. Book: The God of the Woods: A Novel. Stones): 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Kids' Movie Showing: 5 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnCenter, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call Library, 801 Boston Post Road, Madison. Features a ership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. screening of a movie (rated PG) with snacks and popto register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries. corn. Registration is required. For info on the movie or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranConcert by Lee DeWyze: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine HepFRIDAY, JAN. 30 ton.librarycalendar.com. burn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For An Evening with Author and Film Director John info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Sayles: 6 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features a Pickin’ Party: 6 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 presentation on Sayles’s forthcoming historical novel Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues Crucible. Copies of the book will be available for purchase musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, courtesy of Breakwater Books. Free and open to all. Regfree for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfounda- THURSDAY, JAN. 29 Story and Craft: Llama Llama Mess, Mess, Mess: 10 to istration required. For info or to register, call 203-453tion.org. 10:45 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston 8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. The Anatomy of Grit: A Journey From Survival to Pur- Post Rd., Madison. Features a reading of Llama Llama Mess, Mess, Mess (Anna Dewdney) followed by a craft; for Knitting With Knightley: 6 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, pose: 6 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a talk by Justin Brownell. ages 2 and up. Registration is required. For info or to reg- 4 Liberty St. Doors open at 6 p.m.; movie begins at ister (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scran6:30 p.m. Features a potluck-style gathering, so attenHosted by the Branford Land Trust. Free. For info or to ton.librarycalendar.com. dees may bring an entrée, appetizer, or dessert to share. register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit Includes a free showing of Pride and Prejudice. Attendees events.blackstonelibrary.org. SEL-Based Theater Workshop with Wilder Moon Colmay bring knitting or other fiber crafts. Free. For info or lective: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. to register (required), visit chester.recdesk.com. Social-emotional learning workshop for ages 9 to 12. For WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreel- Antique Map Collecting 101: Foxing, Soiling, and Hollywood Gems: The Marrying Kind: 1 p.m. The ibrary.org. Worm Holes: 6 to 7 pm. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Presented by Brian Tims of the Connecticut Map Society. Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit Migrate, Hibernate, and Adapt: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or thekate.org. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children ages 5 to visit killingworthlibrary.org. 10. Features a hands-on STEAM experience that blends National Lego Day: 4 to 5 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial science, nature, and art. Presented by the Steward OutConcert by Jesse Cook: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features Lego free door Day School. Space is limited. For info or to register Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info play and theme builds, with stop-motion projects using (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlior tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. the Lego Play app. Registration is required. For info or to brary.org. register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com. Whitney Literary Society Inaugural Event: 5:30 p.m. Kindergarten Kickback with Legos and Cars: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Bring your favorite matchbox racers or try the cars provided by the library. Dinner will be served. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org/events.

New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Features an informal, bimonthly book discussion on U.S. history with a focus on New Haven, which was once the center of governance, education, trade, and culture in Connecticut. Includes a discussion of a book along with a viewing of materials in the New Haven Museum collection, a visit from an author, or a guided tour of a related exhibit. Book: The Case of the Piglet's Paternity: Trials from the New Haven Colony, 1619-1963 by Jon C. Blue. Snow date: Thursday, Feb. 5. Visitors may register to read and discuss any or all of the books. Free and open to all. For info or to register, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 31

Nuno Felting-a-Scarf Workshop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Participants will use fine merino and a laminated felting technique to create a unique accessory. Cost: $63 for members, $70 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $25 is payable with the tuition. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203453-5947.

See page 29

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Brief Cameo Productions Announces Casting For Side Show: In Concert Press release from Brief Cameo Productions

Brief Cameo Productions (BCP) announces the complete casting for its 2026 production, Side Show: In Concert. The concert is scheduled to perform Friday, Jan. 16, and Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. Performances of Side Show will take place at The Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main Street, Centerbrook. Interested patrons can become a sponsor of the production by visiting www.briefcameoproductions.com. Sponsorship packages include reserved seated ticketing and other perks. General admission tickets are $30 and are on sale now, also via the company’s website. Originally opening on Broadway in 1997, Side Show tells the story of Violet and Daisy Hilton, conjoined twins who became famous performers in the 1930s. The show has the book and lyrics by Bill Russell and the music by Henry Krieger. A heavily revised production played Broadway in 2014, with additional material by Bill Condon. Brief Cameo will be presenting the 2014 version of the script. Samanta Rae Bass (BCP’s The Drowsy Chaperone) will portray Daisy Hilton, with Violet Hilton being performed by Johanna Regan Milani (Drowsy Chaperone). The Side Show cast will also feature several

Chaperone), and Galen Donovan (Drowsy Chaperone) as members of the ensemble. Joining the company for the first time are Tullio Milani as Terry Connor; Miles Hanna as Jake; and Kathryn Dooley, Elizabeth Stassen, Nathan Szymanski, and Sydney Yargeu in the ensemble. The Side Show production team features Co-Directors Jim Clark (BCP cofounder and producer) and Alan Piotrowicz (BCP associate producer), with Piotrowicz also contributing production design, Musical Director Jill Brunelle (BCP resident musical director), costume designer Kathleen Santomasso, and Stage Manager Holly Price. “From day one, Alan and I have been trying to figure out when the right time to produce Side Show would be,” said Clark, Side Show: In Concert co-director along with Piotrowicz. “It always hinged on finding performers to play Violet and Daisy Hilton, the conjoined twins at the center of the musical. Once Samantha Rae Bass and Johanna Regan Milani joined our company last year for Drowsy Chaperone, Photo courtesy of Brief Cameo Productions Photo courtesy of Brief Cameo Productions we knew we had found our Hilton sisters. Samanta Rae Bass Johanna Regan Milani I’m also incredibly proud of the ensemble we’ve assembled, made up of returning returning Brief Cameo Productions cast Drowsy Chaperone) as Sir, Benjamin performers and exciting new additions to members: Ethan Smith (Drowsy Chaper- Wambeke (Drowsy) as Houdini, as well as the Brief Cameo family.” Side Show is presented through special one) as Buddy Foster, Bryan Songy (Rag- Nathan Russo (Ragtime, Sunday in the time, Sunday in the Park with George, Park with George, Master Class, Drowsy arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

Soap Making with Shell & Bee: 1 p.m. Chester Public Concert by Chrome Horse (Tribute to Bob Dylan): Library, 21 W. Main St. Space is limited. For info or to reg- 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Met in HD Encore: The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier ister, contact 860-526-0018 or ChesterKidLib@gmail.com. Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510& Clay: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Cen0453 or visit thekate.org. ter, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 192 minutes. For info or tickets, SUNDAY, FEB. 1 call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Hike on Westwoods West: 10 a.m. Westwoods, Guilford. MONDAY, FEB. 2 Meet at the southern Moose Hill Road entrance, across Author Event: Stephen Fishbach: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Concert by EWF (Tribute Earth, Wind & Fire): 8 p.m. from Landon’s Way. Features a 1.5-hour exploration of Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Escape!. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Westwoods, including a new acquisition by the Guilford For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or Land Conservation Trust (GLCT) off Moose Hill Road. The visit rjjulia.com. visit thekate.org. hike includes hemlocks, small waterfalls, caves, roots, rocks, mud, and a few steep climbs. Hosted by the GLCT. Saturday Cinema: 2 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Sponsored by the Friends Led by GLCT Director David Grigsby and Secretary Sarah TUESDAY, FEB. 3 of the Blackstone Library. Free. For info about the movie Williams. Heavy rain cancels. For info, call 203-915-0663. Author Event: Gayle Feldman in Conversation with or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit Roxanne Coady: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 BosEssex Ed Parade (Groundhog Parade): 2 p.m. Parade events.blackstonelibrary.org. ton Post Rd., Madison. Book: Nothing Random: Bennett kicks off at the Essex Boat Works, 9 Ferry St. In celebraCerf and the Publishing House He Built. For info or to regisA Tribute to Bon Jovi: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, tion of Groundhog Day, a community organization ter (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. dresses Essex Ed, a 12-foot paper-mâché version of a 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by 1 Wild groundhog. Essex Ed’s costume recognizes a person or Night. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a buffet dinner. special occasion. Sponsored by the Essex Board of Trade. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will be seated at Parade takes place rain, snow, or shine. For info, visit tables with other guests. For info or reservations, call essexct.com/events. 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events. Continued from page 28

See page 30

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • REAL ESTATE

Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Pronounced Ah-Beetz Exhibit Focuses on Flavor and Fun video footage adapted from the documentary, and photographs. The exhibit’s title, “Pronounced Ah-Beetz,” comes from the way many people mispronounce the word apizza, which originally grew out of the Italian “la pizza.” The exhibit will remain on view through October 2027.

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

If you love the crust, the crunch, and the char of New Haven pizza, you won’t want to miss the behind the scenes curator’s tour of the Pronounced AhBeetz exhibit with co-curator Jason Bischoff-Wurstle, at the New Haven Museum, on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at 6 p.m. The tour is free with regular museum admission. From Frank Pepe’s original hat to celebrity-signed pizza boxes (including Gwyneth Paltrow and Yogi Berra), the collection of memorabilia relating to New Haven’s renowned pie will fascinate guests. Pronounced AhBeetz shows the fun, flavor, and history of Elm City pizza, including its origin as an affordable means of feeding workers in the fields of Italy, and how it became the food of the poor in the U.S. The Italian migration to New Haven gave way to Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana, which gave birth to Sally’s Apizza. A mile away, Tony’s Apizza became Modern. Pronounced Ah-Beetz is coContinued from page 29

About the New Haven Museum

Guests view the pizza-themed exhibit at the New Haven Museum.

curated by Bischoff-Wurstle, award-winning curator of the 2020 exhibit FACTORY and host of the New Haven Museum You-

Tube series Micro-Histories, and Gorman Bechard, Dean Falcone, and Colin M. Caplan, the producing team behind the documen-

The New Haven Museum has been collecting, preserving and interpreting the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its inception as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862. Located in downtown New Haven at 114 Whitney Avenue, the museum brings more than 375 years of New Haven history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs, and outreach. As a Blue Star Museum, the New Haven Photo by Defining Studios Museum offers the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve, free tary, Pizza: A Love Story. The admission all year. For more exhibit includes first-hand oral information, call 203-562-4183 or histories and apizza-related arti- visit newhavenmuseum.org. facts from personal collections,

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

National Theatre Live in HD Encore: Hamlet: 7 p.m. The WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4 Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old APL Poetry Writing Group: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Hosted by Old Say- 180 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit brook poet laureate Sandra Yannone. Open to all experi- thekate.org. ence levels. Supplies available. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: Author Event: William J. Mann: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Book- Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel. Hosted by the Chester Public sellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Black Dahlia: Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Murder, Monsters, and Madness in Midcentury Hollywood. Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. visit rjjulia.com. Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures Concert by Gadan: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn with Novelist Vanessa Riley: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel. Hosted by the Essex Library or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

FRIDAY, FEB. 6 Winter Jams for Camp Fundraiser Concert: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, 4 Liberty St. Doors open at 5 p.m. Features performances by Someone You Can XRay, Shorebreak, and The Gleeful Conspiracy. Suggested donation: $10 individual, $20 family. Proceeds benefit the Chester Park & Rec summer camp funds. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct. Concert by Laurel Canyon Band (Tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young): 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

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.

REAL ESTATE • VALLEY COURIER • JANUARY 8, 2026

Real Estate Transactions 59 Founders Vlg Unit 59: ESSEX Christopher A. Jones of Clinton to 26 Cedar Knolls Dr Unit 26: Steven Edward H. Desgrosseilliers and Betty A. Contact me to learn more about the current Beresner of Branford to Lori A. Crisanti, $299,900 on 12/18/2025 market and the value of your home. Morrissey, $334,900 on 12/19/2025 59 Old Post Rd Unit AR1: Lara B. 107 Chestnut St: Jennifer S. Bickford of Clinton to Joy and John SUSAN A. MALAN Cassella of Branford to Ngawang Broker Associate CT & & Licensed in RI Henault, $249,900 on 12/16/2025 Namdak and Zhu Jingzhi, $450,000 on o. 860-767-5011 7 Osprey Cmns S: Eileen R Matthay e. smalan@wpsir.com 12/17/2025 T and Richard A. Matthay of Clinton to 13 Fenway Rd: Simone R. and Marc Lori S Payton 2020 RET and Lori S. Dostie of Branford to Paul S. and Payton, $1,740,000 on 12/16/2025 Deborah S. Greenbaum, $910,000 on 85 River Rd Unit J6: Anne Novak of 96 Shore Rd: David P. and 12/15/2025 Samantha R. Herrington of Clinton to Essex to Lkh LLC, $450,000 on 129 Florence Rd: Killian Diane E Gary and Barbara Corliss, $396,000 on 12/16/2025 Est and Rosalie M. Killian of Branford 12/16/2025 to Victoria Rooney, $265,000 on The Hammocks: Harvey N. and Lori 12/19/2025 S. Payton of Clinton to Steiner A & C GUILFORD 63 Gould Ln: Relo Direct Eberle RET and Christine S. Eberle, Government Sv of Branford to George 48 Andrews Rd: Sara A Woolston $1,295,000 on 12/15/2025 and Kaileen Dummar, $740,000 on RET and Joseph L. Woolston of Guilford 12/15/2025 to Erin Leroy and Robert Christensen, $2,200,000 on 12/15/2025 85 Ivy St: Raymond C. and Karen C. DEEP RIVER Seligson of Branford to Jennifer and 42 Copper Hill Dr Unit 42: Seaside Kevin Lamb, $575,000 on 12/16/2025 Capital LLC of Guilford to Claire Ellis, Castle Hts: Richard J. Lof of Deep $480,000 on 12/17/2025 76 Limewood Ave: Twin Tides LLC River to Andrea Lanoux and Christopher Colbath, $105,000 on of Branford to Brian Feuerstein, 360 E River Rd: Chamberlain 11/19/2025 $1,380,000 on 12/18/2025 George L Est and Mari Mariano of Guilford to Jenna and Juan Melendez, 60 Maple St Unit 40: Sherry L. 24 Elm St: Rita Palmer Samuels T and Caroline Samuels of Deep River to Dupont of Branford to Gohlsch Lt and $650,000 on 12/15/2025 Yousef and Madelyn Mazaheri, Thomas K. Gohlsch, $835,000 on 42 Horseshoe Rd: Carolyn F. Johns $454,000 on 12/02/2025 12/18/2025 of Guilford to Debbie Volpe, $525,500 on 12/19/2025 58 Quarry Dock Rd Unit 58: 69 High St: Robert D. Foltz and David Devlin-Foltz of Deep River to Barbara A. Shailor and Harry W. Blair 40 Kenneth Cir: Eugene F. Mulone Brandon G. and Jessica L. Green, of Branford to Michael W. and Susan of Guilford to Stephen Cestaro and $407,000 on 11/25/2025 Jensen, $770,000 on 12/17/2025 Cheyenne Inturri, $425,000 on 12/16/2025 24 Riverwalk: Janice M. Geier of 347 Main St: Olit 2025-Hb1 Branford to Thomas P. and Suzanne M. Alternative of Deep River to Mieczyslaw 817 Lake Dr: Dominican Fathers Of Palak, $316,000 on 12/03/2025 Smith, $785,000 on 12/17/2025 New of Guilford to Kirsten Seyler, 32 Wood Rd: 32 Wood LLC of $400,000 on 12/17/2025 15 Prospect St: Amburg Caroline Branford to Steven R Newton RET and Joyce Est and Lisa Fraser of Deep River 120 N Fair St Unit 2C: Morriss T Steven R. Newton, $175,000 on to Bradley P. Kline and Katherine E. and George W. Morriss of Guilford to Straka, $393,000 on 11/25/2025 12/15/2025 Ritva Ruskewich, $1,250,000 on 12/17/2025 111 Union St: P&z Realty LLC of Deep River to Jacob Mcnally, $275,000 72 Prospect Hill Rd: Mary L on 12/02/2025 Spencer Lt and Michael J. Sweeney of CHESTER 152 Union St: Danielle Thompson of Guilford to George Spencer, $350,000 on 47 Ferry Rd: Nancy Devens of Deep River to John C. Felix, $379,000 12/19/2025 Chester to Ryan and Robin Linares, on 11/26/2025 $1,275,000 on 12/18/2025 28 S Wig Hill Rd: Vito L. Nanni and KILLINGWORTH Maria Arce of Chester to Holly S. Pinto, EAST HAVEN $580,000 on 12/15/2025 37 Titus Coan Rd: Timothy P. and 156 Henry St Unit 156: Bowden Robin Faircloth of Killingworth to Frederick W Est and Margaret Daniel M. and Melissa M. Sherrin, Mclaughlin of East Haven to Christina $720,000 on 12/18/2025 CLINTON Madonna, $385,000 on 12/18/2025 10 Bluff Ave Unit 1-3: Jeffery and 34 Hughes St: Heather DostertMargrit Flynn of Clinton to Swift Home Mazzacane of East Haven to Anthony MADISON Services LLC, $95,000 on 12/16/2025 N. Maturo, $360,000 on 12/15/2025 81 Bartlett Dr: Joshua D. and 9 Bonny Ln: Klaus and Adela 66 John St: Michaelle J. Rodiguez Breuer of Clinton to Ernest and Amanda E. Bird of Madison to Joanna and Felipe A. Luis of East Haven to Geraldine Fusco, $599,000 on Angel E. Vinan, $335,000 on 12/16/2025 B. Suriani and Michael A. Madden, 12/18/2025 $630,000 on 12/16/2025

BRANFORD

513 Boston Post Rd: Thomas J Cartledge T and Thomas J. Cartledge of Madison to Walter Kerr, $1,100,000 on 12/19/2025 71 Madison Springs Dr: Satterwhite Nancy O Est and J Michael Satterwhite of Madison to William H. and Andrea Creaser, $975,000 on 12/18/2025 76 Squires Rd: Carol A. Barfield of Madison to Brian A. Leete, $472,500 on 12/15/2025

NORTH BRANFORD 30 Ciro Rd: Troiano Gaetano Est and Vivian Troiano of North Branford to Robert Miller, $500,000 on 12/15/2025 21 Idylwood Dr: Mark E. and Michele Rowland of North Branford to Renee E. Farrell, $440,000 on 12/15/2025 259 Old Post Rd: Renee E. Farrell of North Branford to William Nugent, $720,000 on 12/16/2025 20 Twin Lakes Rd Unit 10: Coyle Anna M Est and Robert G. Coyle of North Branford to Theresa A. Guadagnino and Leo C. Freund, $301,000 on 12/18/2025

OLD SAYBROOK 1057 Boston Post Rd: Bfc LLC of Old Saybrook to Steven Jeske, $400,000 on 12/16/2025 249 Boston Post Rd: Jhinson Jara and Mershuri Velez of Old Saybrook to Jenny P. Palacios, $350,000 on 12/16/2025 19 Lynde St: Robert Schaum and Maria A. Fernandes of Old Saybrook to Cynthia A. and Steven J. Fetteroll, $935,000 on 12/17/2025

WESTBROOK 30 Dowd Rd: Janet Cartwright of Westbrook to Wendy Lang, $425,000 on 12/19/2025 155 Fawn Hill Dr: John and Meredith Werner of Westbrook to Theresa M. and Holly A. Bonanomi, $425,000 on 12/15/2025 321 Old Clinton Rd: Matthew J. Egan of Westbrook to Timothy E. Brophy, $945,000 on 12/17/2025 Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. For past transactions, visit zip06.com/realestate.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

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Madison Office 752 Boston Post Road | Madison, CT 06443 williampitt.com Licensed CT Real Estate Broker williampitt.com ESSEX BROKERAGE | 13 MAIN| 860.767.7488 STREET | 860.767.7488 ESSEX BROKERAGE | 13 MAIN STREET Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the OLD LYME BROKERAGE | 103 HALLS ROAD | 860.434.2400 OLD LYME BROKERAGE | 103 HALLS ROAD | 860.434.2400MORTGAGE FINANCING AVAILABLE MORTGAGE FINANCING AVAILABLE Coldwell Banker 1.855.298.5650 logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real 1.855.298.5650 Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary © 2013 Citibank, N. A. equal housing lender, member FDIC. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.

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© 2013 Citibank, N. A. equal housing lender, member FDIC. Citi, Citibank,ofArc Design and Citi withLLC. Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Anywhere Advisors The Coldwell Banker System fully supportsInc. the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

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#1 DOLLAR VOLUME IN ESSEX 2024-2025(YTD)*** #1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN ESSEX 2019-2025(YTD)* #1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY 2023 & 2024** #1 IN DOLLAR VOLUME IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY 2025(YTD)** DIAMOND AWARD WINNER 2020-2025**** *Source: S ma rtM LS, 1/ 1/ 19 -1 2/ 2 3/ 25, total t ransa ction s by a ge nt , Essex; a l l p ro pe rt ies listed o r sold by agent. * *Sou rce: Sm ar t MLS, 1/1/2 3-12/ 23/ 25, tota l transactions by a gent, Midd lesex County; a ll pro p erties listed o r so l d by agent . * **Source: Sm a rtMLS, 1/ 1/ 24-12 /2 3/ 25, to tal t ra nsa ctions by agent , Essex; a l l prop erties listed or so l d by agent . * ** *Source: Wi l li am Pi t t Sotheby’s Inter na tiona l Realty 2020 2025 Awa rds Recog nition, Essex B rokerage. Each O f f ice is Indep endent ly Owned and Op era ted.