Issuu

Chester,

Region 4 Budget Calls for 2.5% Increase

By Aaron Rubin

Staff Writer

The Region 4 School District’s budget for John Winthrop Middle School and Valley Regional High School proposes a 2.54 percent increase in expenditures, totaling $24,582,406 in spending for the 2027 fiscal year.

The district arrived at its proposed total

following three budget workshops, according to district Superintendent Brian White. He told the the budget will be up for referendum by all eligible district voters on May 5.

As usual, salaries and benefits make up roughly half of the $24.5 million budget, totaling more than $16 million in yearly expenditures. However, unlike other school Courier

districts across the shoreline, employee insurance costs are not a major driver of the proposed budget. White credited Region 4’s ability to reduce spending on health benefits to its self-insured status through a health care reserve fund currently at approximately $7.5 million.

See Region 4 Budget page 8

Children race across the lawn to gather eggs during the Chester Hose Company Auxiliary’s annual Easter egg hunt April 4 at the Chester Firehouse, as parents watch from the hillside.

has joined the Connecticut River Museum to help bring the past to life...............2

Eager for Success Girls lacrosse is heading into the season with optimism.................12

Columnist Liz Egan continues her two-part series, working through transformation as a metaphor for grief.......................................20

Jane Bowers

PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ ValleyCourier

Embracing Change

Jane Bowers: Bringing the Past to Life

By Pam Young

Correspondent

Nearly a month into her new role as collections curator at the Connecticut River Museum, Jane Bowers is already immersed in the past—cataloging centuries-old ship logs, uncovering historic photographs, and helping shape how the region’s story is told.

“There are lots of different kinds of words to describe what I do,” Jane says. “There is the management side of things which includes organizing the schedule, working with staff to decide what exhibits will be displayed, working with other institutions, and working with artists to decide what objects to put on display.”

Jane brings decades of museum experience to the position, though her path into the field was not a direct one. A Massachusetts native, she earned a bachelor’s degree in comparative literature from Simmons College and later a master’s degree in art history from UMass Amherst. “I was focused on modern and con-

Person of the Week

temporary art, but I have not use it most of the time because I have been working in history museums since I finished with my master’s degree,”

Jane says.

Her introduction to museum work came unexpectedly. After initially planning to pursue publishing, she took a job in public relations at a small museum in Brockton.

“It was a small place with little staff and they needed help one day moving some art around,” Jane says. “I was able to touch the work that I was writing press releases about. It sparked something in me. It was an aha moment. I thought, I would much rather be handling the art, deciding how it was to be displayed.”

That moment set the course for a career that has spanned multiple

institutions across Massachusetts and Connecticut, including the Kendall Whaling Museum, the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the Greenwich Historical Society, and the Wenham Museum, where she spent 17 years.

Along the way, Jane developed a deep appreciation for the wide range of materials that make up museum collections—from paintings and sculptures to manuscripts, tools, and everyday objects.

“The history collection is eclectic,” Jane says. “At almost every museum there is art, photographs, furniture, tools related to whatever industry is in the area, manuscripts, letters, wills, probate records, deeds, drawings, journals, log books, and things that were printed a long time ago like brochures, posters, and fliers.”

Now at the Connecticut River Museum, she is especially energized by the opportunity to both preserve and reinterpret those kinds of materials.

See Jane Bowers page 7

Photo courtesy of the Connecticut River Museum Jane Bowers recently joined the CT River Museum in Essex as collections curator, bringing decades of experience and a passion for making history accessible through exhibits and archival work.

Essex, Chester, & Deep River’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 2001

Letters Editor to the

Deep Concern and Sadness

I am writing to express my deep concern and sadness regarding the proposed demolition of 40 Prospect St., also known as the Captain Alvah Post house, located on Champlin Square next to the Pratt Smithy in Essex Village. I have lived in the village for more than 20 years, and I have seen our community’s unique character slowly erode by the loss of our historic landmarks.

This house is more than just an old building; it is a physical link to our local history. The Posts were early Essex residents, and their ties to the shipbuilding part of Essex village history are well documented. The loss of a ship captain’s house in this historic part of the village is significant.

Demolition is an irreversible act that effectively erases our historical footprint. Beyond history, there is the environmental cost: tearing down a single 1,500-square-foot house sends roughly 45 tons of material into a landfill.

Instead of “the wrecking ball,” we should be discussing the housing crisis in the lower Connecticut River Valley and how this house could be a home to someone. I do not know what plans the owner may have for this property.

Many residents may wonder how this demolition has been approved. They should know that the town of Essex currently has no zoning regulations that support historic preservation. None. If this surprises you, or more importantly concerns you, please contact our town selectman and the members of our Planning and Zoning Commission. They need to hear from you. Our town leadership thinks no one cares about historic preservation, and I know that simply isn’t true. Let’s be vocal about this and support those on the Planning and Zoning Commission who want to correct this situation.

Jane Piro Essex

The Valley Regional High School (VRHS) Trades Award Fund at the Community Foundation of Middlesex County (CFMC) is accepting applications for its annual trades award through the VRHS School Counseling Office. Two awards of $2,000 each will be presented on VRHS Awards Night in the spring. Established by members of the VRHS Class of 1982 to encourage careers in the trades, the award is open to VRHS seniors pursuing employment in the trades and/or entrepreneurship. Applicants must be in good academic standing and demonstrate a commitment to positive community involvement and service to others. Students may obtain applications and additional information through the VRHS School Counseling Office. The VRHS Trades Award is an educational award fund of CFMC. For more information about the fund or to support it, call 860-347-0025 or visit MiddlesexCountyCF.org.

A Talk Show on Arts and Entertainment

The Valley Shore Community Television airs the show, Arts and Entertainment with Deborah Gilbert, every Tuesday at 6 p.m. on Channel 19 and 1070 and on Frontier TV channel 6089. Started in July 2020, the weekly half-hour program highlights the arts, entertainment and culture such as featuring artists of all genres, theaters, organizations and museums. The program is taped at the Valley Shore Community Television studio, 1587 Boston Post Road, Westbrook. For more information, call 203-912-2319 or visit vsctv.com.

Volunteers Needed to Tutor Valley Shore Residents in English

Literacy Volunteers Valley Shore (LVVS) is accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Tutor Training Workshop to prepare volunteers to teach English to adult residents from around the world. No experience is required. The 12-hour training runs over eight sessions. Participants may attend morning sessions from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in person at the Westbrook Library or evening sessions from 7 to 8:30 p.m., offered in a hybrid format with Zoom. Sessions are scheduled for April 9, 14, 16, 21, 28, and May 7, 12, and 14. An online self-facilitated option is also available. A $40 donation is requested for materials. For more information, contact Joanne Argersinger at 860-399-0280 or jargersinger@lvvs.org, or visit www.lvvs.org.

VRHS Trades Award Fund Accepting Applications

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor Ext. 6141

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Alicia Gomez Assistant Editor

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Eric O’Connell Staff Reporter

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Aaron Rubin Staff Reporter

Editorial Staff

Obituaries

Obituary

Alice Hopper

Chester

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Alice Hopper, who passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 91.

Born to the late Frank and Molly Monte, she was one of four children growing up in Chester and was a member of the first graduating class of Valley Regional High School in 1952. At the heart of her life was her family. She was a devoted and loving caregiver who gave selflessly of her time, energy, and heart, always placing the needs of those she loved before her own. Her kindness, strength, and constant presence were a source of comfort to everyone around her.

She is survived by her children, Thomas (Jeannine) Zemienieski, Paul (Jennifer) Zemienieski, and Nicole Bizzarro; and was blessed to spend cherished years with her grandchildren, Danielle (Marty), Robyn (Brian), Maggie (Joey), and Zoe; as well as five greatgrandchildren: Everleigh, Maddox, Makenna, Declan, and Lexi. She also leaves behind her sister, “Cathy,” along with several nieces and nephews; all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, “Vinnie,” with whom she now rests surely hand in hand, dancing once again; as well as her brothers, Roy and “Frankie.”

Her legacy of love, devotion, and quiet generosity will live on in the lives of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Contacting Valley Courier

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Later in life, as an empty nester, she continued to give back by volunteering at Chester Elementary School, where she spent time reading to children and sharing her warmth with a new generation. Her home was always a place of welcome, filled with care, compassion, and unconditional love. Through gentle words, thoughtful gestures, and quiet sacrifices, she showed her love each and every day.

A private service will be held for the family.

Remembrances can be made through donations in her memory to an organization supporting dementia research or care.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Affinity Hospice and Autumn Lake for the compassion and care they provided.

See Obituaries page 9

on the Lawn’

Essex Historical Society seeks sculptors for its 2026 Art on the Pratt House Lawn exhibition at 19 West Ave., Essex. Four artists will be selected to display up to three outdoor sculptures for two-month periods: June 1 through July 31; Aug. 1 through Sept. 30; and Oct. 1 through Nov. 30. (The April 1 through May 31 session is filled.) Participation is free. Works must be suitable for outdoor display and approved by the selection committee. Artists are responsible for installation and removal. Submit images to Kate Savage at membership@essexhistory.org. For more information, call 860-767-0681 or visit essexhistory.org.

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 Farm Animals on April 10 and All About the Ambulance on April 17. 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, staff.essexlib@gmail.com, or visit youressexlibrary.org.

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

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Valley Courier

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Find Obituaries

Posted Daily Online

While our press schedule often does not allow us to publish death notices in time to announce memorial services, readers can find obituaries posted to the 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.

Essex Historical Society Seeks Artists for ‘Art

CHS to Host Lecture on Edward Hungerford

Staff Report

The Chester Historical Society will present “Edward Hungerford, Hero Carrying the Torch Forward,” an illustrated lecture by Marta Daniels, on Sunday, April 12, at 4 p.m. at Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St. The event is free and open to the public.

As Connecticut’s celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary gets underway, the program will explore the life and legacy of Edward C. Hungerford (1827–1910), a figure described by the society as integral to Chester’s history.

A businessman, philanthropist, abolitionist, church deacon, and community leader, Hungerford played a key role in shaping the town. His contributions included developing Main Street, cofounding the Chester Bank, and securing land for the public library, high school, and a baseball field.

Organizers say Hungerford’s legacy extends beyond physical development. He is remembered for putting into practice the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice reflected in the nation’s founding documents.

of the Chester Historical Society Edward C. Hungerford (1827–1910) was a businessman, abolitionist, and community leader who helped shape Chester’s development. The Chester Historical Society will host a lecture on his life April 12.

Thursday, April 23, 2026

Hil ton My s tic | 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

The lecture will place Hungerford’s work within the broader context of American history, noting how the principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights required action by later generations to be fully realized.

According to the Historical Society, Hungerford was among those who took on that responsibility in the 19th century. Opposed to slavery and racism, he worked to challenge both through direct action.

The program will highlight his pre-Civil War efforts aiding runaway slaves in defiance of the Fugitive Slave Act, as well as his involvement in early Republican Party

leadership during Abraham Lincoln’s era. It will also examine his work in post-Civil War Florida, where he organized reading and math instruction for formerly enslaved people and, in 1897, founded and funded a school for their children.

The lecture will also recount a near-fatal lynching attempt he survived in 1899, tied to his educational and philanthropic efforts in the South.

For more information, contact Bekah Wright, outreach coordinator, at bekwright@gmail.com or 818-231-4203.

Volunteer Opportunity to Help Others

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

Photo courtesy

Jane Bowers: Bringing the Past to Life

Continued from page 2

“It is exciting,” Jane says. “There have been discussions about interesting, exciting new potential plans for exhibit spaces, and they are turning the lighthouse into more of an exhibit space. I am excited about that and being on the forefront of making changes to some of the exhibits and also to making improvements to the database.”

Improving that database—so collections are easier to access and use—is one of her immediate priorities.

“I am hoping to make it better so that it makes an impact on people being able to have better access to and use of the collection,” Jane says.

Her early discoveries in the museum’s archives have already been rewarding.

“It is really wonderful,” Jane says of reviewing ship log books, some dating back to 1797. “There was a portrait of the ship, Cleopatra, which is an early example of a drawing in the ship’s log in America, which is really cool.”

She also points to historic glass plate

negatives that offer “snapshots of lives and life around the river.”

For Jane, the work is as much about storytelling as it is about preservation.

“Organizing and cleaning up the collection is really satisfying. Anyone who does this knows that getting things in order makes you feel really good, knowing others can access information easily that you have put together. Exhibit design and planning are really nice ways to use creative skills and tell the story about objects on display,” she says. “It is about representing a moment in history or representing people’s lives.”

That philosophy carries into her broader goal: making the museum accessible and engaging for all visitors.

“Museums aren’t for everybody, so we want to make it a comfortable and fun place for people of all ages to come look at what we have and learn the history of the Connecticut River,” Jane says. “We don’t want it to be a stiff, dusty museum. We want people to be excited to walk through and learn something.”

Wellness Services for Older Adults Offered at The Estuary

The Estuary, 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, offers wellness services to adults aged 50 and over living in the estuary region. Services are by appointment and include footcare (Mondays), haircuts (Tuesdays and Thursdays), massage (first Tuesday of each month), Medicare counseling (first Tuesday of each month), hearing clinics (last Wednesday of each month), and mental health support. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 860-388-1611, ext. 202.

Workforce Alliance offers training, certificates, and job search assistance to youth and young adults living in south central Connecticut who are not currently enrolled in high school or college. Workforce Alliance also provides tuition assistance, academic help, internships, GED completion, and guidance toward higher education. For more information, visit www.workforcealliance.biz.

Fields Wind Ensemble

April 19th, at 4:00

The Academy of St Martin in the Fields was founded by Sir Neville Marriner in 1958 and is currently led by Music Director, Joshua Bell. In 1967, the Academy Chamber Ensemble was formed to perform the larger scale chamber music repertoire with players who customarily worked together, instead of the usual string quartet with additional guests. Drawn from the principal players of the orchestra, the Chamber Ensemble’s touring commitments are extensive and include regular tours of Europe and North America, while recording contracts with Philips Classics, Hyperion, and Chandos have led to the release of over thirty CDs.

The Chamber Ensemble now performs in multiple configurations, including the Academy Wind Ensemble, which returns to North America with wind quintet repertoire in April 2026.

Region 4 Budget Calls for 2.5% Increase

Continued from page 1

“The supervision district is sort of the governing authority for our health insurance reserve, so we’re self-insured,” said White. “Our employees will pay into that reserve by way of their payroll deductions, just like you would anywhere else. But instead of those payroll deductions going directly to some other insurance provider, they go into our insurance reserves.”

All Boards of Education in the tri-town area “collectively agree on how much money we will fund that reserve,” White added, with decisions based on “benefit claims trends and projections that are provided to us by an insurance consultant.”

As a result, rising health care costs are not a major driving factor within the budgets for the individual elementary schools in the tri-town area, White confirmed.

Additionally, the Region 4 district has not been affected financially by the impact

of the recent winter season. Rising costs associated with snow clearing by the district were avoided through reliance on contracted services for snow-related operations, White said. These services will continue to be relied upon next year as well, along with district staff who may be called upon for help.

“Although it was definitely a demanding winter with all the snow we had, it didn’t really present any financial challenges or hardships,” said White. “We’ll see what next year brings. But we’re not concerned about it. We think we have enough in our budgets to handle it.”

More than $1.3 million is included in the budget for debt service payments, specifically those tied to the new and renovated athletic fields at Region 4 schools, and the new HVAC system and ADA-compliant vestibule project at John Winthrop. White said the athletic fields and HVAC system are “substantively complete,” and that the

Wanted: Volunteers for Spectrum Gallery and Arts Center

Arts Center Killingworth, 276 North Parker Hill Road, and Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, are seeking volunteers to help at events and programs throughout the year. No experience is necessary. Teens can earn community service credit. For more information, contact 860-663-5593 or artscenterkillingworth@ gmail.com, or visit the volunteer page at spectrumartgallery.org/volunteer.

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF CHESTER

PARTY-SELECTED DELEGATES TO CONVENTIONS 2026

Per Section 9-395 of the Connecticut General Statutes

A certified list of party-selected candidates for the Republican Party in the Town of Chester for participation as delegates to the conventions of said Party specified below is on file in my office at 203 Middlesex Avenue, Chester, Connecticut and copies are available for public distribution:

CONVENTIONS

1. Republican Congressional Convention – 2nd District

2. Republican State Convention

3. Republican State Senate Convention – 33rd District

4. Republican State Assembly Convention – 36th District

5. Republican Judge of Probate Convention – 33rd District

Kathryn Hair

Town Clerk of Chester

LEGAL NOTICE

A certified list of party-selected candidates for the Republican Party in the Town of ESSEX for participation as DELEGATES to the conventions of said Party specified below is on file in my office at 29 West Avenue, Essex, Connecticut, and copies are available for public distribution:

CONVENTIONS

State Convention

33rd Senate District

36th Assembly District

33rd Probate District

Dated at Essex, Connecticut, this 1st day of April 2026.

Caitlin Riley

Town Clerk Essex, CT

district is working with the state on the latter for reimbursement.

Across the entire tri-town region, enrollment numbers have been dropping gradually. The budget for the middle school and high school projects 513 students across both buildings by the 2030 academic year, with the expectation that the overall number of students in the region will dip below 1,200 “for the next few years,” said White.

In response, the district has been compelled to reexamine its space, programming, and the costs associated with those and numerous other education-related factors. To address this, the district has established four task forces that are collectively tasked with determining whether the district should “be thinking differently about the structure of our system” in the future.

The four task forces, which have been meeting since late last year, are working in the areas of school finances, governance,

YMCA Offers Child Care

grade configuration, and teaching and learning needs.

In the meantime, Region 4 has worked to reevaluate staffing through reductions — none in recent years through district-directed layoffs, according to White — by adjusting to declining enrollment, determining whether positions formerly held by retired teachers are still “critical” in the district, or making other positional changes “so that we’re right-sizing our system to the best of our ability.”

“Wherever we’ve had opportunities to responsibly reduce staff based on enrollment, we’ve done that, and we’ll continue to do that to the best of our ability,” said White. “It’s always the balance between making sure that we’re being responsible in how we operate, but we want to be very careful not to harm the quality of education for our students.”

The Valley Shore YMCA School Age program offers before- and after-school childcare. Organized games and outside/gym times are planned, including homework time, arts and crafts, snacks, and special activities. Children may attend one to five days, with drop-in options available. Registration is required. For more information, call 860-399-9622, ext. 118 or visit vsymca.org.

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF CHESTER

PARTY-SELECTED DELEGATES TO CONVENTIONS 2026

Per Section 9-395 of the Connecticut General Statutes

A certified list of party-selected candidates for the Democratic Party in the Town of Chester for participation as delegates to the conventions of said Party specified below is on file in my office at 203 Middlesex Avenue, Chester, Connecticut and copies are available for public distribution:

CONVENTIONS

1. Democratic Congressional Convention – 2nd District

2. Democratic State Convention

3. Democratic State Senate Convention – 33rd District

4. Democratic State Assembly Convention – 36th District

5. Democratic Judge of Probate Convention – 33rd District

Kathryn Hair

Town Clerk of Chester

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF DEEP RIVER PARTY-SELECTED DELEGATES TO CONVENTIONS

Certified lists of party-selected candidates for both the Democratic and Republican Parties in the Town of Deep River for participation as DELEGATES to the conventions of said parties specified below are on file in my office at 174 Main Street, Deep River, Connecticut, and copies are available for public distribution:

CONVENTIONS

State Convention

2nd Congressional District

33rd State Senatorial District

36th State Assembly District

33rd Judge of Probate District

Amy M. Winchell, MCTC

Town Clerk of Deep River

Dated at Deep River, CT, this 31st day of March, 2026.

Obituaries

Continued from page 5

Obituary Zigmund Makuck

Chester

Zigmund “Ziggy” P. Makuck, 87, of Chester, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on March 8, 2026.

He is survived by his wife, Claudina Makuck, née Dengler. Ziggy was born June 15, 1938, and was a lifelong resident of Chester. He is the son of the late Zigmund Makuck and Julia Makuck, née Calamari.

Ziggy was a painter by trade, working for Carl Dahlstrom and Sons, selling paint and wallpaper. He was a past member of the Chester Hose Company. Ziggy had a passion for motorcycles and hot rods, starting at an early age. He loved music of all genres and enjoyed playing many favorite songs on his guitar.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose steady presence, warm stories,

and amazing sense of humor touched all who knew him.

Besides his parents, Ziggy was predeceased by his son, Thomas “Tommy” Makuck. In addition to his wife, Claudina, he is survived by his son, John Makuck (Lauri); his brothers, John L. Makuck and Richard Makuck (Paul); his five grandchildren: Katlyn King (Seth), Hannah Makuck (Jordan), Sara Jascot (Dave), John Taylor Makuck (Patrick), and Ethan Makuck (Heidi); and his three great-grandchildren, Ryder King, Finbarr Daly, and Zig Jascot. He also leaves behind a nephew, cousins, and a brother-in-law.

The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to the staff, nurses, and doctors at Aaron Manor and Middlesex Health, who took such good care of him.

A graveside service for Ziggy will be held at St. Joseph’s Church in Chester at a later date in June. Contributions in his name can be made to the Chester Hose Company and Chester Ambulance Association, 6 High Street, Chester, CT 06412.

Calls for Artists: Essex Summer Arts Festival

Artists and craftspeople are invited to participate in the Essex Summer Arts Festival, scheduled for June 20 through June 21 on the Essex Green in Essex. The outdoor event features fine art and crafts displayed in the historic walkable town overlooking the Connecticut River. Essex is a popular tourist destination known for its restaurants, coffee shops, and marina, and the festival typically attracts strong visitor traffic. Space is limited and early reservations are encouraged. For more information or to reserve a spot, email barbara@spectrumartgallery.org.

LEGAL NOTICE

DEEP RIVER WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY

Legal notice is hereby given to all users of Deep River’s municipal sewers that the second installment of all SEWER OPERATION & MAINTENANCE charges for the period April 1, 2026 to September 30, 2026 is hereby due and payable on April 1, 2026. The second installment becomes delinquent if not paid on or before May 5, 2026. The interest rate on delinquent payments is one and one-half percent for each month or fraction thereof after April 5, 2026. Minimum interest is $2.00.

Mail your payment to the Tax Office, PO Box 13, Deep River, CT 06417 or at the Tax Office Tues, Wed 9-12 & 1-4, Thurs 9-12 & 1-6:00 860-526-6028

Katherine Cryder, CCMC

Tax Collector

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF DEEP RIVER

Legal notice is hereby given to all owners whose properties are along the following streets: Bridge St, Burcam Cir, Elm St, High St, Lafayette Ave, Lords La, Pent Rd, Spring St, Union St, Village St, West Elm St, Kirtland St, Prospect St, Fairview Ave, Old River St. 1 & 2, Phelps La, Read St, River St. SEWER ASSESSMENT bills are due and payable on April 1, 2026. The sewer assessment payment is late and subject to interest if not paid on or before May 1, 2026. The interest rate on delinquent sewer assessments is one and one-half percent for each month or fraction thereof after April 1, 2026. Minimum interest is $5.00.

Mail your payment to the Tax Office, PO Box 13, Deep River, CT 06417

Or pay at the Tax Office, Tues, Wed 9-12 & 1-4, Thurs 9-12 & 1-6:00

Katherine Cryder, CCMC

Tax Collector

LEGAL NOTICE

A certified list of party-selected candidates for the Democratic Party in the Town of ESSEX for participation as DELEGATES to the conventions of said Party specified below is on file in my office at 29 West Avenue, Essex, Connecticut, and copies are available for public distribution:

CONVENTIONS

State Convention

2nd Congressional District

33rd Senate District

36th Assembly District

33rd Probate District

Dated at Essex, Connecticut, this 1st day of April 2026.

Caitlin Riley Town Clerk Town of Essex, CT

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING

ESSEX ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, by in person meeting at Town Hall (see agenda on Town’s website www.essexct.gov for further details), at 6:30 p.m. to hear the following application:

Application No. 26-3 on behalf of Brett Overacker, 83 North Main Street Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 75, VR District, requesting variances of Sections 40C, 40D, 40E, 40I.1, and 60B for the replacement of a garage located within the rear yard setback and exceeding the coverage but will be a reduction from the existing setback encroachment and coverage.

Application No. 26-4 on behalf of Candance Hardgrove, 6 Brookside Lane Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 33 Lot 6, VR District, requesting variances of Sections 40C, 40D, 40E, 40I.1, and 60B for the shifting and enclosure of an 8’ X 16’ deck located within the side yard setback.

Copies of the application are on file in the Town Clerk’s Office and Land Use Department at Essex Town Hall and can be viewed on the Town’s webpage.

Carey Duques, Land Use Official

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of April 9 - April 15

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, you have a certain energy that is building this week. Momentum increases the second you stop overthinking, so jump into whatever you were planning to do with two feet.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Something cozy, such as a hobby, recipe or routine could turn into something surprisingly productive, Taurus. Don’t dismiss passion projects this week when comfort meets opportunity.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, your words equal magic this week. Conversations open doors and can help clear up confusion about important topics, even about budding relationships.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Peace will look good on you this week, Cancer. You will be exuding quiet confidence. It is a good time to organize your space or schedule a spa session. Relax as stress levels drop.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

The spotlight is yours, Leo, even when you are not trying to be in it. This is a great week to share ideas, pitch something creative or post fun content on social media.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

A small, healthy habit or tweak to your lifestyle can change your whole week, Virgo. Tiny improvements will produce a huge payoff that you will enjoy.

APRIL 9

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

A random invite or chat leads to a helpful connection, Libra. Say yes to invitations to go out, as it is time to be a social butterfly for the foreseeable future.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you are giving off quiet power vibes this week. Your focus and follow-through is all based on trusting your instincts. Someone in your circle is noticing your efforts.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, going on an adventure doesn’t have to necessarily mean traveling. This is a good time to try a new class, go to a show or experiment with new cuisine.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you are building something solid behind the scenes. It may take a lot of time, but steady effort now will likely lead to bragging rights.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Collaborations sparkle for you this week, Aquarius. All of those ideas that you think are unusual will turn out to be genius. It’s all about perspective and looking at things the right way.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Your inner world could intersect with the outside world this week, Pisces. Expect a few days of creative, dreamy and intuitive moments where you daydream on purpose.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

Leighton Meester, Actress (40) APRIL 10

David Harbour, Actor (51) APRIL 11

Jennifer Esposito, Actress (53) APRIL 12

Claire Danes, Actress (47)

APRIL 13

Rick Schroder, Actor (56) APRIL 14

Adrien Brody, Actor (53) APRIL 15

Chris Stapleton, Singer (48)

CLUES ACROSS

1. Health care pros

4. A person inhabiting Benin

7. One thousand cubic feet (abbr.)

10. Split pulses

11. Frozen water

12. Small constellation

13. Perennial mountain rice

15. Pick up

16. Japanese historical period

19. Suggesting the horror of death and decay

21. Unattached

23. Fishing port in SE France

24. Products for dogs

25. One point south of southeast

26. Having the skill or resources to do something

27. Involve oneself deeply

30. Immobile

34. __ pai dong: Hong Kong food stall

35. Move quickly on foot

36. Gathered

41. A way through

45. Another name for Thor

46. Sharp dueling sword

47. The supreme commander of a fleet

50. Seasoned sausages

54. Path

55. Christian hermit

56. Ancient region of Asia Minor

57. Where wrestlers go to work

59. Roman statesman

60. Explosive

61. Licensed for Wall Street

62. Where golfers start

63. Grow old

64. Autonomic nervous system

65. No seats available

CLUES DOWN

1. A legally binding command

2. General feeling of discomfort

3. Dribble

4. Soft touch

5. South American plant

6. Clouds of gas and dust in space

7. Warm-blooded vertebrates

8. Lines created by folding

9. Strong belief

13. Senior officer

14. Adult

17. Joint entrance examination in India

18. Passports and drivers’ licenses are two

20. Those who go against an accepted authority

22. One point east of northeast

27. Journalist Tarbell

28. One’s mother (British)

29. Nowhere to be found

31. A way to save for old age

32. Fall behind

33. Midway between northeast and east

37. The work of a sailor

38. Mark with striae

39. Energy, style and enthusiasm

40. Sticky situation

41. Monetary units of Spain

42. Three-banded armadillo

43. Chooses

44. More disreputable

47. Defensive nuclear weapon

48. “The Partridge Family” actress Susan

49. Livestock owners assn. in Spain

51. Duplicating machine (abbr.)

52. OJ trial judge

53. Politician

58. Airborne (abbr.)

Word Search

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

ROAD TRIPPING WORD SEARCH

ASPHALT ATLAS BILLBOARDS CARAVAN COOLER DETOUR HIGHWAY HORIZON INTERSTATE ITINERARY MILEAGE MOTEL

NAVIGATION ODOMETER OVERLOOK

PITSTOP PLAYLIST ROADSIDE SCENIC SNACKS

SUNSET TOLLBOOTH VASTNESS WANDERLUST

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for April 2, 2026: TACKLE

Word Search solution for April 2, 2026

Valley Regional Girls Lacrosse Eager for Success

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The spring season is officially underway, and the Valley Regional girls lacrosse team is already hard at work, looking to make this season better than the year before. The Warriors have already identified parts of the game they want to improve after opening the season with a tough contest against Morgan.

The Warriors fell to Morgan in their

season opener, 13-7, but the team is optimistic, as it has returned a significant number of experienced players from last year.

Valley Regional coach Alex Rose said the players and coaches are aligned, and the team is hungry to achieve success this season.

“As we head into a new season, there’s a real sense of excitement and purpose surrounding this group of girls,” he said.

“From top to bottom, we can see that this is a team that’s hungry, connected, and ready to take the next step.”

Rose said it all starts with senior leadership, and that the two captains bring an energy that’s impossible to ignore. Addie Guzallis and Nia Marchese have set the tone for the team and have demonstrated leadership on and off the field.

“They compete hard, they lead with confidence, and they’ve really embraced the

responsibility of guiding this team,” Rose said. “Whether it’s in practice or in big moments, they’re the ones everyone looks to—and they deliver. Their chemistry and intensity have elevated the entire group, and they’ve created a standard that’s pushing us forward every day.”

The team also returns a strong core of juniors ready to do their part in elevating

Photo courtesy of Richard Strauss

Valley Regional falls to Morgan, 13-7, in season opener.

Deep River Horseshoe League Set to Start 71st Season

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

With good weather on the horizon and more people making their way outside, the Deep River Horseshoe League is also getting set to start back up and bring back fun, competitive play.

The Deep River Horseshoe League was established in 1955 and is Connecticut’s oldest horseshoe league. In fact, the league has been a staple in the community for quite some time. This year will mark the 71st season of the Deep River Horseshoe League.

The league plays on Marvin Field, Deep River’s “unofficial town green,” adjacent to the First Congregational Church. Members range in age from their teens to their 90s and include people from all trades and careers. League members include firemen, lawyers, stockbrokers, police officers, real estate professionals, contractors, and retirees.

The league is also open to both men and women.

The Deep River Horseshoe League has 18 teams that compete on nine courts. Each team is composed of three players divided into A, B, and C divisions based on

their handicaps. Teams play six matches per week.

The longtime league play will begin Thursday, April 30, at 5:15 p.m., following the traditional “Blessing of the Pits” by the Rev. Caronna of the First Congregational Church, and continues each Thursday evening for 17 weeks. In the event of rain, makeup days are played the following Monday.

The objective is to pitch each of two shoes around the stake (ringer) or within six inches (one point) of a metal stake from 40 feet away. Men 70 years old or women can pitch from a distance of 30 feet. Each game consists of 12 innings, after which scores are totaled. All points count, and scoring is done using a handicap system.

The season ends in the third week of August, with the top eight teams competing in a tournament championship. Anyone interested in playing or who would like more information can visit www.deepriverhorsehoes.com/contacts.

The Deep River Horseshoes serve all communities throughout the Shoreline and retain members from each of the towns in the area.

Madison Hoop Dreams to Host April Vacation Camp

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

Madison Hoop Dreams will hold its annual April Vacation Basketball Camp from Monday, April 13, to Friday, April 17, at the Robert H. Brown School, located at 980 Durham Road in Madison. The camp runs daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is open to players in grades 3-8. Players in grade 2 may also participate if they can shoot on a regulation-height hoop and comfortably play with athletes in grades 3-4. The weeklong camp focuses on skill development, confidence building, and creating a fun, energetic environment for

young athletes. The cost is $300 per camper, with discounted rates for families. Families can pay $275 per camper for two siblings and $250 per camper for three or more.

Space is limited to 60 participants, and early registration is encouraged. Families are also invited to organize carpools—more players means more energy and more fun. Registration is available at www.madisonhoopdreams.com. For questions or financial assistance, contact Coach Bill Barker at 203-494-6905 or wab6933@gmail.com.

Valley Regional Girls Lacrosse Eager for Success

Continued from page 12

the program. Fellow captains Annie Keck and Kayleigh Cornett return, along with Macy Rock, Karlee Cutler, and Josephina McGee. Junior Sara Delouchry is a new addition to the program but has been putting in the work so far this season.

In goal, Rose is excited to see a new Resnisky step in between the pipes. He said Lily Resnisky has big shoes to fill following in her sister’s footsteps.

“She’s embraced the challenge,” Rose said. “She’s been working hard, and we have full confidence in her ability to anchor our defense and make key saves when we need them most.”

Rose added that this group has gained valuable experience in previous seasons, and now it is stepping into bigger roles with confidence. He said the players bring a combination of skill, toughness, and game awareness that will help push the team to the next level.

“Avi Santangelo is another player we’re really looking forward to working with this season,” he said. “As a sophomore, she’s already showing the ability to impact the game on both ends of the field. Whether it’s creating opportunities on offense, stepping

up defensively, or contributing in transition, she’s going to be someone opponents have to account for every time we take the field.”

The team also includes a solid core group of freshmen ready to contribute right away. Caitlyn Lunz, Brooke Guyer, and Sienna Nardizzi have entered the season prepared and eager to compete.

Rose said they’ve adjusted quickly to the pace and expectations of high school varsity lacrosse, and they’re going to add depth and energy to the lineup.

“Overall, this is a group we’re really fired up about,” Rose said. “Defensively, we’re tough, disciplined, and ready to set the tone every time we step on the field. On the offensive end, we’re bringing a fast, aggressive style that should make us dangerous and exciting to watch.”

Rose added that, more than anything, the team is hungry.

“They’re putting in the work, they trust each other, and they’re ready to compete at a high level,” he said. “There’s a lot of energy around this group right now, and we can’t wait to get out there and show what we’re capable of in the coming season.”

Shoreline Arts Alliance is accepting submissions for IMAGES 2026, Connecticut’s oldest statewide photography competition. The jury-curated exhibition will be held Aug. 8–30 at Kehler Liddell Gallery, 873 Whalley Avenue, New Haven. Connecticut photographers of all skill levels are invited to submit digital entries through the Shoreline Arts Alliance website by Thursday, June 11, at noon. Submission guidelines and fees are available online. Founded in 1980, Shoreline Arts Alliance is a nonprofit organization that supports professional arts development through mentorship, networking, education, and community engagement. For more information, call 203-421-6739, email office@shorelinearts.org, or visit shorelinearts.org.

The Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, offers Buddy Up, a program that takes place on a select Saturday each month at 11 a.m. Buddy Up features a teen volunteer paired with a younger reader (aged 4 to 8) for a relaxed hour of literacy fun. Teen volunteers earn community service hours and share friendship, fluency, and confidence with an elementary-aged book buddy. For more information or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560.

Chester seniors and community members are invited to a blood pressure clinic every third Tuesday from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Chester Town Hall community room, 203 Middlesex Avenue. The public health nurse will be available to check blood pressure and provide health information. Healthy snacks will also be available. For more information, call Public Health Nurse Sherry Carlson at 860-661-3300.

Shoreline Arts Alliance Announces IMAGES 2026 Call for Entries

Buddy Up

Chester Blood Pressure Clinic

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