In response to the discovery of antiLGBTQ+ flyers distributed throughout Deep River, community members, town officials, and state leaders have condemned the materials and affirmed support for the LGBTQ+ community.
More than 50 people gathered at the Deep
River Public Library on Wednesday, April 2, for an event organized in collaboration with Tri-Town Youth Services. The event, featuring licensed social worker Jillian Celentano, focused on promoting education and understanding about transgender people and the broader LGBTQ+ community. Attendees carried signs with messages such as “Trans Rights Are Human Rights” in a show of solidarity.
“We are a youth service agency, but we really care about all people,” said Rob Bibbiani, Executive Director of Tri-Town Youth Services. “This event was arranged to provide an educational opportunity for the community.”
Bibbiani acknowledged that the flyers, which were found across town—including on
See Community page 8
On the Hunt
Children rush to find the golden egg while enjoying a chilly, somewhat rainy Spring Eggstravaganza Easter Egg Hunt at Devitt Park on April 5. The event, hosted by Deep River Parks and Recreation, included Easter baskets for the winner of each children's age group, face painting by Sweet Caroline, food by Chris' Dog House, and a visit from the Easter Bunny by fire truck.
byLauraMatesky/ ValleyCourier
After 28 years, is retiring as Con Brio’s music director............................2
Steve Bruce
The Chester Wolves are a tackle football team that meets in Chester every weekend to play the sport while having fun and being very inclusive...........................14 Bringing People Together
Photo
Staff Writer DEEP
Steve Bruce: The Song is Ending
Rita Christopher
Senior Correspondent
The answer, according to Steve Bruce, is simple: It’s time. The question is equally direct: Why, after spending 28 years as the music director of Con Brio, he is retiring?
“I’m turning 80 next week,” Steve says.
Retirement, yes, but not before the choral group’s spring performance will provide a final opportunity for local supporters to say goodbye at Christ the King Church in Old Lyme on Saturday, April 12 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 13 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $40 and available at conbrio.org or by calling 860-526-5399.
There will also be goodbyes for Susan Saltus, the longtime associate music director, who is also retiring.
Steve is not simply Con Brio’s latest music director. He is the only music director Con Brio has ever had. However, Steve is
Person of the Week
thinking about the future—not the past.
“At the 25th anniversary three years ago, I thought it had been a great 25 years, but what is it going to take to get us through the next 25?” Steve says. “Are audiences changing, trends changing? I thought it was time for new blood.”
When he looks back at the highlights of his tenure, Steve mentions a concert which Con Brio did with noted opera performers David Pittsinger and Patricia Schuman—shoreline singers with international reputations who have always made a special effort to appear with local groups.
Steve also recalls a concert
Choral Fantasy
with pianist Mihae Lee, another local musician with a long and eminent career, with whom Con Brio performed Beethoven’s , a work for soloists, chorus, and piano. Lee is also stepping down the artistic director of the Essex Winter Series this year.
Chris Shepard, a Clinton resident, will take over as Con Brio’s new music director after Steve’s official retirement in July. Shepard is a well-known choral conductor in New England who, among other groups, conducts the Connecticut Choral Artists, which is the oldest professional choir in Connecticut.
The first half of the upcoming Con Brio concert will include two movements of Puccini’s
Gloria
. “A wonderful piece. The singers have a great time with it,” Steve says.
Shepard will lead the group in
See Steve Bruce page 11
Photo by Rita Christopher/Valley Courier
Steve Bruce is retiring as the music director of Con Brio after spending the past 28 years in that position.
EASTER FESTIVAL
SCHEDULE
Saturdayy, April 12th | 11am-4pm
9am-3pm:
Collectible Trading Card Show inside Suite C100 11am-4pm:
Small Business Vendor Market, Food & Beverage Trucks, Bounce House, Games, Face Painting, Tinsel Hair Weaving, Kettle Corn, Glitter & Henna Tattoos… 11:30-4pm:
Arrival of the EASTER BUNNY | Golden Egg Scavenger Hunts Begin Easter Bunny Parade EGG HUNT SCHEDULE
Kids Only, Please bring your own baskets
1:30: Ages 1-3 year s | 2pm: Ages 4 & 5 year s 2:30: Ages 6 & 7 year s | 3pm: Ages 8-12 year s
Living SportS
April Vacation Basketball Camp It’s the last chance to sign up for the Madison Hoop Dreams April vacation basketball camp, which takes place from Tuesday, Aoril 15 to Friday, April 18
Premier Soccer Stars Vale Sports Club (SC) is a program that offers premier soccer programs across the shoreline and beyond for people ages 3 to 23 16 of the week
17
“I was influenced to start this tackle football team because I wasn’t allowed to play in an actual league, so
Chester Elementary School is looking to get an accurate kindergarten count for the 2025-’26 school year and predict the count for future years. For families with a child who will be entering kindergarten in August 2025 or for new families with a child aged 5 and under, call Gayle Capezzone, secretary at Chester Elementary School, at 860-526-5797.
Want Help to Get into Art School?
Spectrum Gallery is hosting a new program, Portfolio Development for Art Schools, to help young artists get accepted into their chosen art school. During these oneon-one, two-hour sessions, participants and their art instructor will investigate what each student’s specific art schools are looking for and how to achieve an art portfolio which will increase their chances of admission. The program helps clarify the requirements for the schools of interest, create the assignments accordingly, and review and improve participant skills like shading, coloring, composition, and basic design. The program takes place at Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. For more information or to register, email barbara@spectrumartgallery.org or visit spectrumartgallery.org.
ESSEX TOWN MEETINGS
Thursday, April 10
Planning and Zoning Commission: Plan of Conservation and Development Meeting
Board of Finance: Board of Education Budget 2025-’26
Conservation Commission
Tuesday, April 15
Zoning Board of Appeals
Wednesday, April 16
Tree Committee Board of Selectmen
NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-7674340, ext. 129, or visit the Essex town website www.essexct.gov to learn how to participate in the following meetings: : 6 p.m. : 7 p.m. : 7 p.m. : 7 p.m. : 10 a.m. : 6:30 p.m.
DEEP RIVER TOWN MEETINGS
Transfer Station Committee Library Board of Trustees Firehouse Building Committee Board of Finance Budget Workshop
and Zoning Commission
and Zoning Commission
Thursday, April 10
Housing Authority
Deep River Sustainable CT Committee
NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-526-6024 or visit the Deep River town website www.deepriverct.us to learn how to participate in the following meetings: : 4 p.m. : 5 p.m. : 7 p.m.
NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-5260013, ext. 511, or visit the Chester town website www.chesterct.org to learn how to participate in the following meetings: : 7 p.m. : 4:30 p.m. : 9:30 a.m. : 7 p.m. : 8 p.m. : 6 p.m. : 7 p.m.
Carmela Giovanna Saglimbeni (Manuli) passed away after a brief illness on March 29, 2025. Her beloved husband of nearly 53 years, Anthony Angelo Saglimbeni Sr., was by her side.
The eldest of the seven Manuli children, she was the leader of the family, and when she met her husband Anthony at 18, they married and moved to America from Sicily, where she was born and raised. Soon, they were able to bring her parents and five of the six siblings over, and they created a sense of community. They had two sons, Carmen and Anthony Saglimbeni Jr., and together, Carmela and Anthony raised their family, as well as successfully ran a family business with Carmela’s sisters, Reliable Cleaners and Tailoring, for nearly 40 years before retiring in October of 2024.
Although Carmela suffered a double brain aneurism at age 35 that left her paralyzed on her left side and with a slew of health issues, it did not slow her down. She relearned how to walk, talk, and everything that came with it. She continued to work, both at the business and, more importantly, in being there for her family. After raising her sons, Carmela became a pillar of support to her sibling’s children. She raised her nieces and nephews with a support, love and patience that is nearly indescribable.
Carmela enjoyed gardening; her eye for detail oversaw the planting of each tomato plant. Each leaf of basil was inspected, and with the efficiency of a drill sergeant, she commanded her troops of siblings, in-laws, and next-generation cousins each planting and har-
vest time. Her talents in the garden and kitchen were unmatched; prior to her brain surgery, she would hand-make clothing, her skill in sewing taught by her father, who had been a tailor in Italy.
Carmela primarily enjoyed spending time with the children in her family, and her joy multiplied with her grandchildren, Anthony, Liam, and Elizabeth Giovanna. She loved nothing more than when great-nieces and nephews came along, and she would thrive seeing all the children together. Many will remember not only the iron willpower of Carmela, but also the glow and softness that came with her gentle heart. Carmela would attribute her strength and force of will to her relationship with God.
Carmela’s family would like to sincerely thank the staff of both the Middlesex and Yale New Haven hospitals for taking excellent care of their matriarch. Her parents, Giuseppe and Giuseppa Manuli; her sister Maria Manuli; and her grandson, Anthony Angelo Saglimbeni, predecease Carmela. Her husband, Anthony Saglimbeni Sr., and son, Carmen, and wife, Heather Saglimbeni, and their son, Liam Skiles, survive her. She is also survived by son Anthony Saglimbeni Jr., his wife Erin, and their daughter Elizabeth Giovanna, as well Carmela’s other siblings, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who miss their “Carmy” already.
A visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, at Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook, with a service to follow from 6 to 7 p.m. that evening. A private funeral will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Carmela’s name to the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House Charity.
Do you know a woman or girl who deserves recognition for leading with kindness, helping others, or making a positive change in herself or others in a community? Women & Family Life Center, a nonprofit organization in Guilford that provides resources and education for women and families in crisis, is now accepting nominations for SHEro candidates. Completed nomination forms must be submitted online at bit.ly/sheroawards2025 by Monday, April 28. Selected SHEros will be notified Friday, May 2. SHEros will be awarded Saturday, May 17, at 9:30 a.m. at the First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Lane. For more information, contact Emily Rorke at 203-458-6699 or erorke@womenandfamilylife.org.
Contacting Valley Courier
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR The ValleyCourier 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.
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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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Fountain Hill Cemetery Announces ‘Save the Frog Pond’ Project
Press Release from Rhonda Forristall
Fountain Hill Cemetery is announcing the start of its Save the Frog Pond project.
Decades of sediment in the pond have created a poor environment for local wildlife. Winthrop Construction has been awarded the contract to clean out the sediment. The goal of the project is to restore the pond to its beauty and function of 1929. Located in Deep River, the pond serves as a habitat for wildlife, as a water source for the Deep River Fire Department, and as an educational resource for area schoolchildren.
Fountain Hill Cemetery is reaching out to the community to help raise the needed funds for this project. Donations can be made through its website at fountainhillcemetery.com or by mailing a check to Fountain Hill Cemetery Preservation Society, PO Box 263, Deep River, CT 06417. For questions, call Dave Blifford at 860-918-1346.
The Save the Frog Pond project at Fountain Hill Cemetery is underway in Deep River with a mission to clean out the sediment in the pond.
Valley Shore Toastmasters Welcomes New Members
The Valley Shore Toastmasters holds its meetings every first and third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Road. The aim is to create a supportive environment so that participants improve their public speaking skills. For more information, email cathferg@yahoo.com or visit www.3940.toastmastersclubs.org.
Sign Up for Fashion Week
Get ready to design, illustrate, and sew this summer at Spectrum Gallery’s July Fashion Weeks. Fashion One runs from Monday, July 14, to Friday, July 18, for ages 10 to 12, while Fashion Two runs from Monday, July 21, to Friday, July 25, for ages 13 to 15. Fashion Weeks are held at Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, and run from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In the mornings, participants will learn to illustrate fashion silhouettes as live models pose for their sketches, resulting in a “portfolio-ready” piece by week’s end. The afternoons will focus on sewing with professional seamstresses who teach participants how to read, pin, cut, and sew a chosen pattern. Participants will construct and finish their garment, adding accessories to bring their vision to life. At the end of the week, professional hair and makeup stylists prepare participants for a photo shoot and a fashion show as they model their creations for friends and family. No experience is necessary as instructors guide participants every step of the way. Material lists for drawing and sewing are provided upon registration. To jump start sewing, participants need to register for the Pre-Camp Workshop: Make Friends with Your Sewing Machine, where they will learn to troubleshoot the machine and stitch with confidence. Two sessions are available: Friday, July 11, from 3 to 5 p.m. or Saturday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to noon. The cost for the workshop is $40 and participants must bring their own machine. The cost of either of the two Fashion Weeks is $425; a deposit of $200 secures a spot. Spaces fill quickly. For more information or to register for Fashion Weeks, contact 860-767-0742 or barbara@spectrumartgallery.org.
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.
Photo courtesy of Rhonda Forristall
Chester Historical Society Offering Scholarship for Local Students
Press Release from Chester Historical Society
The Chester Historical Society is pleased to announce its first year of offering a $1,000 scholarship for Chester students who will be attending college or graduate school.
Eligible applicants must be either high school seniors or undergraduate or graduate college students who are Chester residents. The applicant must be interested in history, historic preservation, museums, and/or the environmental impact on historic sites. The applicant must demonstrate an interest in history through coursework, volunteer opportunities, clubs, or personal involvement in historical activities. Additionally, the applicant must be in good academic standing and must demonstrate a financial need.
Calling All Artists
The mission of the Chester Historical Society is to foster a deep appreciation for Chester’s rich history by curating engaging museum exhibits, offering educational outreach programs, preserving historical records and artifacts, and highlighting the town’s significant historical sites and unique environment.
The applicant must complete the Valley Regional High School standard scholarship application. If not attending Valley Regional, the applicant can obtain the application through the Chester Historical Society’s website at: chesterhistoricalsociety.org.
The deadline to apply is Thursday, May 1. Applications can be emailed to: chestercthistoricalsociety@gmail.com.
Spectrum Gallery is seeking submissions from artists and fine artisans for two upcoming events: the Essex Green Summer Arts Festival on Saturday, June 14, and Sunday, June 15, and the Madison Green Autumn Arts Festival on Saturday, Oct. 11, and Sunday, Oct. 12. Artists and fine artisans are invited to submit their work to Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. For more information, including deadlines and a prospectus, or to register for either festival, email barbara@spectrumartgallery.org or visit the festivals link at spectrumartgallery.org.
Community Responds to Anti-LGBTQ+ Flyers
Continued from page 1
lawns and near school bus stops—were upsetting to many residents, but he emphasized the positive response that followed.
“This really ignited people who are in support of LGBTQ+ people or are a part of the community themselves,” he said. “It really went from heart-wrenching to heartwarming, and kindness won in the end.”
In a statement posted on the town’s website, Deep River First Selectman Carol Jones addressed the incident, urging residents to support one another and reject messages of hate.
“I am thankful to the community members who have taken the time to call, email, text or stop in to talk to me about the negative response and disturbing vitriol,” Jones wrote. “Our diversity is what we want to celebrate, not attack. Please support all of your neighbors and allow each of us the ability to freely be who we are.”
Jones also asked residents with home security cameras to check their footage for information about the flyers’ distribution and report any findings to the Deep River Police Department, which is currently
investigating.
State Senator Norm Needleman also condemned the flyers, describing them as “homophobic and transphobic falsehoods” that “disparage, demonize and attack minority groups under false pretenses using false information.”
“These flyers go far beyond reasonable rhetoric and delve into homophobic and transphobic falsehoods, as well as direct attacks against individuals that could be interpreted as libel or hate speech,” Needleman said. “Deep River is better than this, and there should be no room for hate speech here or anywhere.”
Tri-Town Youth Services released a statement affirming its commitment to inclusion and respectful dialogue: “We want to be clear: our goal is to provide accurate, compassionate, and researchbased information to help families navigate these important conversations with care and respect. Hate has no place in our community.”
As of press time, no arrests have been made in connection with the flyer distribution.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Deep River Police Department at 860-526-6027.
Kate’s Camp for Kids
The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center will host its Kate’s Camp for Kids summer day camp at 300 Main Street, Old Saybrook, from Monday, June 23, through Friday, Aug. 15. Seven one-week sessions will be offered from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for children ages 5 to 10. Each week of Kate’s camp is filled with theater, music, dance, and visual art and culminates in a performance for family and friends that unifies all of the art forms. The camp weeks will run with the following themes: Week 1, June 23 to June 27, Robots; Week 2, July 7 to July 11, Exploration: Antarctica; Week 3, July 14 to July 18, The Wild West; Week 4, July 21 to July 25, Under the Sea: Australia's Great Barrier Reef; Week 5, July 28 to Aug. 1, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles; Week 6, Aug. 4 to Aug. 8, Wilderness Adventure; and Week 7, Aug. 11 to Aug. 15, Kate's Tournament of Champions. The cost is $350 per session with a 10% discount for siblings within the same household. Campers must have completed kindergarten to be eligible. Before- and after-camp care are available for an additional fee. Registrations are now being accepted and partial scholarships are available. For more information or to register, call 860-510-0473 or visit thekate.org.
Steve Bruce: The Song is Ending
Continued from page 2
a performance of a movement from Benjamin Britten’s .
St. Nicolas
The second half of the concert will feature some of Steve’s favorite songs, including an by a 20th-century German composer Franz Biebl. Steve first heard it sung by the Yale Glee Cub in the early 1990s, when he was not directing a chorus.
Sing, Sing Unto God
programs with by 20th-century American composer Paul Fetler
Chester Garden Club Scholarship
Over the years, Con Brio has performed in some notable locations, among them St. Peter’s in Rome, St. Mark’s in Venice, and the Duomo in Florence.
When the late Joan Matz asked Steve to be the music director of Con Brio, Steve immediately thought of performing the Biebl work.
“I vowed if I had a chorus, I would sing it,” he recalls.
The April concert will end with the ‘Amen’ from the .
Ave Maria Messiah
“A good way to go out,” Steve says.
Except that Steve is not really going out. Instead of directing, he will find a place as a singer in the baritone section.
Although Steve will not be conducting Con Brio again on this continent, he still has one last conducting stint with the group in Europe. Con Brio is going on tour in Germany, France, and Switzerland from Monday, May 19 to Thursday, June 5.
This will be the ninth European tour the Steve has done with the group. Con Brio singers will perform in joint appearances with local choirs, each group in concert individually, and then joining together for a few numbers.
Con Brio always opens its European
Steve’s retirement as music director of Con Brio is really his second retirement. He retired as managing editor of BLR (Business and Legal Reports), formerly in Old Saybrook, in 2018. While his undergraduate degree and his doctorate are in music, Steve’s professional life was spent in publishing and editing.
Steve is still involved in the written word as a volunteer editor, working on the monthly magazine of the Mystic Seaport.
Steve is looking forward to a trip with his wife Abby, fulfilling a dream which started in elementary school. He wants to go to Egypt.
“I’ve been fascinated by it since 3rd grade,” he says.
Just like so many people who have contemplated retirement, Steve says that there are all sorts of jobs around the house which need doing. Steve would also like to organize the vocal music scores he has accumulated over the years to ready them for donation to a college or university.
“To conduct Con Brio was the privilege of a lifetime,” Steve says.
If he had but one thing to say to the musicians, it would be a simple message.
“I love them all.”
Workforce Alliance Connecting Youth & Young Adults to Training and Jobs
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.
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, 2025. The sewer assessment payment is late and subject to interest if not paid on or before May 1, 2025. The interest rate on delinquent sewer assessments is one and one-half percent for each month or fraction thereof after April 1, 2025. 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
The Chester Garden Club offers a scholarship of $500 for graduating high school students and current college students who are residents of Chester and are pursuing the study of horticulture and/or environment-related fields. The successful candidate must have plans to pursue a degree at an accredited twoor four-year institution with the intent on majoring in horticulture, floriculture, landscape design, conservation, forestry, agronomy, environmental science, botany, biology, plant pathology, or other related field. Interested students may send their completed applications to the Chester Garden Club, Attention: Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 623, Chester, CT 06412. Applications are due Wednesday, April 30. Scholarship recipients will be notified by Saturday, May 31. For more information, email Chester Garden Club member Margo Novak at margonov@comcast.net.
GriefShare Meetings
GriefShare is a weekly faith-based bereavement support group that offers help, encouragement, and support after the death of a spouse, child, other family member, or friend. The support group meets from noon to 2 p.m. on Sundays through June 8 in the cafe at Christ Chapel, 1185 Durham Road, Madison. (No session on Easter Sunday, April 20; Mothers' Day, May 11; and possibly May 25, the Sunday preceding Memorial Day.) The weekly format includes supportive discussion about video content and a journaling workbook reinforcing each week’s topics. A journal/workbook can be ordered directly through GriefShare when participants register. All are welcome. For more information or to register, call Sue Granniss at 860-913-1654 or specify “Madison, Connecticut” at griefshare.org/findagroup.
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, 2025 to September 30, 2025 is hereby due and payable on April 1, 2025. The second installment becomes delinquent if not paid on or beforeMay 1, 2025. The interest rate on delinquent payments is one and one-half percent for each month or fraction thereof after April 1, 2025. Minimum interest is $2.00.
Mail your payment to the Tax Office, Town Hall, 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
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 15, 2025, by in person meeting at Town Hall (see agenda on Town’s website www.essexct.gov for further details), at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following applications:
Application No. 25-2 on behalf of Gregory and Mary-Jo Toczydlowski, 175 Saybrook Road Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 74 Lot 11, Rural Residential District, requesting variances of Sections 40C, 40D, 40E, 40I.1, 40I.2, 61B, and 101E for an existing pergola roof 19.2 feet from the side property line where 30 feet is required and within 100 feet of the coastal jurisdiction line.
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
Moosie’s Story
Story by Carol Andrecs
Beautiful Moosie is a young tabby female who was discovered living underneath a house during the cold and bitter winter months. She was very shy when she first arrived at Forgotten Felines, but has since warmed up to being petted, brushed, and given lots of attention and love. She is longing for a lap of her own where she can snuggle up nicely. Moosie would be great as a companion for another cat or as the only princess in your home. Stop by our open house to meet Moosie or apply to adopt her online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.
2025 Forgotten Felines Mother’s Day Plant Sale
Forgotten Felines is holding its annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale on Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All plants must be pre-ordered. To place an order, please fill out the form found on www.forgottenfelinesct.org and return with a check to Forgotten Felines, PO Box 734, Clinton, CT 06413 by Monday, April 21. Plants must be picked up on May 10 at 153 Horse Hill Road in Westbrook. For more information, please leave a message on the fundraising line at 860-669-1347.
Find Your Match at Forgotten Felines
Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road in Westbrook. No appointment is necessary.
Please help local firefighters collect donations of non-perishable food for the 13th Annual Fire House Food Drive to benefit The Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries (SSKP).
SATURDAY, APRIL 12TH, 9am - 1pm
Saybrook Fire Dept.; Essex VFD; Westbrook VFD; Chester VFD; Clinton VFD; Killingworth FD; Deep River VFD; and North Madison VFD Robert’s Food Center in North Madison; Stop & Shop in Old Saybrook and Clinton; Big Y in Old Saybrook and Clinton; Walmart in Old Saybrook and DG Market in Essex.
• Regular maintenance on all makes/ models: gas, oil or electric
• Frozen or broken pipes
• Winterizing home heating systems
• Venting for dryers & exhaust systems
• Gas fireplace inserts & piping
• Pool heaters; service and install
• Complete residential and commercial HVAC system change outs (including ductless splits and heat pumps)
• Air purification systems, water heaters, commercial rooftop units and water heaters, custom duct work, processed piping
Non-perishable food donations can be brought to Mirsina’s Restaurant in Old Saybrook; the Parthenon Diner in Old Saybrook; Sal’s Pizza & Pasta in Old Saybrook; Scotch Plains Tavern in Essex as well as the Essex Savings Bank in Old Saybrook and Little Pub in Old Saybrook. Please note that all these additional locations are accepting non-perishable food donations during their regular business hours through Saturday, April 12th.
• …and so much more! The most needed items: Canned beans/vegetables/fruit, peanut butter & jelly; canned tuna, pasta
Q: Hi Linda, what happened to my Rhody? It looked normal earlier this winter... - Tim
A: Hi Tim, Winter injury is the culprit. Broadleaf evergreens, such as Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Andromeda lose water as they breathe through their leaves. In the winter, frozen ground prevents replacement of the lost water from the leaves so the leaves curl as a protective measure to deter water loss. Once the weather warms, the leaves usually unfurl. Prolonged cold, windy weather exacerbates the drying process which injures and/or kills the leaves. The plant will grow back. If the entire shrub has been damaged, wait until late spring and note if there is any new growth at the base of the plant. If new growth is present, cutback all the dead stems to the base of the plant and leave the new growth. If new growth does not appear, remove the shrub and plant a new rhododendron. One suggestion to deter damage is to deeply water broad leaf evergreens in the Fall. Continue watering until the temperature drops below 40 degrees. This helps to keep an ample amount of water in the soil to help the shrub survive the winter. Be sure the soil under the rhododendron is covered with 2-3” of mulch to keep the soil moist. Rhododendrons have shallow roots and dry out very easily.
Sat. 4/12 Full Power Live Remote at Old Saybrook Fire Dept. Info: www.shorelinesoupkitchens.org • Ph. 860.395.5550
Sponsors:
Photo courtesy of Genevieve Ray
Chester Wolves Youth Football Focused on Unity and Inclusion
By Maria Cipriano
Sports Reporter
Youth sports are all about unity and bringing people together. They are a great way for individuals of all ages and ability levels to stay active and be part of a special community with two common goals: to win, and to have fun. A local youth football team in Chester aims to hit those aspirations on a weekly basis while creating lifelong friendships in the process.
Chester resident and eighth grader Broden Schulte has been running a football team, the Chester Wolves, since he was in fourth grade. What started off as flag football eventually developed into a tackle league. The Wolves
had their own uniforms made when they were in elementary school, and they meet every weekend to play.
“It started in fourth grade, when we had a small group of 10 or so kids that wanted to play football at the elementary school,” said Schulte. “I was influenced to start this tackle football team because I wasn’t allowed to play in an actual league, so we made our own.”
Schulte is the facilitator of the program that keeps the wheels turning, and every week, new inter-squad teams are formed for the day.
“I am the creator who sent the invites to everybody and organized it,” Schulte said. “Every
weekend we meet, draft teams, and play a game. We often go to downtown Chester after.”
The Chester Wolves pride themselves on being very inclusive, as they are a squad for kids of all abilities, including those who aren’t able to play because of physical disabilities. Athletes who can’t be on the field have been given other roles, including announcer and video crew.
Schulte has seen tremendous growth in numbers over the last few years, as more and more young athletes learned about the club and have started to play more consistently.
“Once we got to middle school, and as people made friends with other kids in other towns, the
league spread by word of mouth,” said Schulte. “We made a roster, and our biggest game had 30 or so players with two camera operators to record the game. The amount of people at the games varies depending on if people are busy or not, but our biggest game was around 35 players.”
While many of the kids who play for the Wolves are from Chester, there are also many other athletes that reside in Essex and Deep River, too.
“The league is hosted in Chester, but it consists of all people from the tri-town area mostly who attend John Winthrop Middle School,” Schulte said. “We play every weekend year-round, but usually the biggest games are
in the fall and spring.”
One of Schulte’s favorite things about his involvement in the football program is that everyone shows up with a good attitude, and every athlete wants to be there.
“We haven’t faced many challenges because all the people who play are inclusive and participate,” said Schulte. “I don’t necessary oversee the league, as I am a player as well, but it’s always fun to see the team we have made.”
The Chester Wolves have a YouTube channel, ChesterWolvesOfficial, that includes funny moments and highlights from their games.
Photo courtesy of Christopher Strempel
Photo courtesy of Christopher Strempel
The Chester Wolves are a tackle football team that meets weekly in Chester and prides themselves on being very inclusive.
Pictured is a team huddle with members of the Chester Wolves, an organized tackle football team that meets every weekend in Chester to play games and have fun.
Vale Sports Club Offering Premier Soccer Programs Across the Shoreline
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
Vale Sports Club (SC) offers premier soccer programs in Connecticut with 1000+ players at branches in Middlesex, New Haven, and Tolland county for people ages 3 to 23. From summer camps and the grassroots programs (as early as 3 years old), to the collegiate showcase and semipro men's/women’s team, Vale SC takes pride in offering the best experience to maximize potential in the youth of Connecticut. Vale SC is newly minted as the first program in Connecticut to partner with Major League Soccer (MLS) “Go”, allowing its staff to incorporate a fantastic pathway for kids in the communities which they serve.
Vale’s current magnificent project, with a grand opening event on Friday, May 16
from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Forge (49 Randolph Road in Middletown, CT), is a truly exceptional turf soccer complex, highlighted by Middlesex Health Stadium. This permanent home is going to be the best facility in Connecticut, and with Vale’s sponsors through the Vale Foundation, it will allow the program to invest in opportunities for free play to the local community.
Vale SC encourages people to join for a training session, a week of summer camp, and tryouts, which will be held on Monday, May 12 and Wednesday, May 14 in Middletown. Find unlimited information on the program’s website at www.valesc.com, and if you are interested in any of the programs, reach out to Mike Cunningham, Chief Operating Officer at MC@valesc.com.
Spring Has Sprung, Mixing Fish and Fishers in a Big Way
It’s finally here! For early readers, Catch and Keep opens this Saturday. Anglers who have been wetting a line already know how good trout fishing has been. Finding an excuse (good, bad, or indifferent) for not hitting the banks or wading the rivers and streams was easy considering how typical this spring’s weather pattern has been. Fishers closely monitoring weather fronts and barometric pressures for upcoming drops, however, were able to time it right and hooked up amazingly.
Trout stocking was consistent pretty much all the way throughfrom the winter right on through - including Catch and Release. If one followed Captain Morgan’s weekly column, trout were showing up anywhere from colorful native brookie size right up to magnificent browns and rainbows to 27” that were released immediately after their photo op. Although crowd sizes on Saturday, April 12 will most likely not compete with those from the true opening days in previous years, there is little doubt that there will be ample trout to target throughout state waters. Around 500,000 trout are predicted to have been splashed by CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) inland fisheries
CAPTAIN MORGAN’S
Fishing report
division through the month of May.
What is different now are the conversations. When anglers used to bait and gear up the week prior to opening day, and absolutely on the pair of days just before, stories of the previous season’s encounters filled the air along with tips and questions. Now, we are hearing conversations centered around recent catches and releases shadowed by mumblings about missing the old opening days with their traditional annual get-togethers, firemen’s breakfasts, and reunions with folks traveling from distant states.
If you are one of those anglers who looks forward to cooking freshly caught trout over an open fire, or Trout Almandine served with all of the fixings, then Saturday is your day. We have had recent rainfall, so water flows and levels will be manageable, while fish will be somewhat trained and acclimated, giving some anglers more of a challenge.
Forget giving up terminal tackle, lures, and/or flies, losing a good fish can be avoided by pay-
ing attention to three simple details. Bad knots, worn line/leaders, and compromised guides (chips, cracks, missing inserts) can sour an end result. Most of these weaknesses go uncorrected because of being unnoticed or lazy. Getting into the habit of closely checking for these faults and correcting them before hitting the water can make a big difference. A simple few-second feel with one’s fingertips or a Q-tip test can easily change a disappointing outcome to a cheering one.
On The Water
High pressure and warm conditions blanketed the area and the Atlantic. A cold front moved in, tapping 60-degree temperatures down into the 30s. Air temperatures fluctuated throughout the week from lows in the high 20s to daytime highs in the low 60s. This warm front passed as another high pressure system built in from the north. The frontal boundary in the vicinity of the region brought unsettled conditions that typified springtime weather. Long Island Sound waters vacillated, as fog, wind, and high seas became predictably unpredictable. Water temperatures remained around 44
degrees but has been trending upward, and tides did manage to get into negative territory as it went through its phases. Fishers that hugged the shore
during the openings of blackfish (tautog) and winter flounder seasons had varying results.
See Spring page 17
Photo courtesy of Mike Cunningham
Pictured are athletes from Vale Sports Club, a program that offers premier soccer programs across the Connecticut shoreline and beyond.
Photo courtesy of Captain Morgan
Aboard the fishing vessel Black Hawk, kids enjoy a day of fishing donated by owner Captain Greg Dubrule and sponsored by the New England Saltwater Fishing Club.
Spring Has Sprung, Mixing Fish and Fishers in a Big Way
Continued from page 16
Channels and inside the harbors produced some nice blackbacks to 15” on soft baits and dunking chum pots. Toggers, on the other hand, had colder temperatures and winds to deal with that unfortunately, held most of those fishers tied to the docks. Conditions calmed down on day two, but cold temperatures bottomed out at 33 degrees from the previous day’s 55 degrees. However, workday got in the way of many that had to think twice about whether or not a trip would be worth the time taken.
The turn of the seasons has seen a gradual increase of ospreys returning to their nests to start their rebuilding process. Tidal rivers have seen the most preying activity in addition to the state’s stocked trout waters. Between those fish hawks whose diets consist entirely of fish and eagles, both waters and anglers are being severely tested by these efficient hunters. Soon, the egrets and blue herons will follow and begin working the estuaries for small fish.
As active striped bass join the rocky blackfish and surprising winter flounder marine migrations, inland fisheries are exploding. Pre-spawn imposing largemouth bass are being caught on the edges, trout catches are going through the roof, including several in excess of 25,” and the rest of lake, pond, and river fish are taking everything from natural and scented baits to hard and soft artificial lures, including flies. Note that female largemouth bass are feeding aggressively in order to build up their storage reservoirs in preparation for their spawning season. Treat them gently before returning them to the water.
Catch and Keep for trout begins on Saturday, April 12. Based on what has been happening so far, inline spinners, swim-
mers, Gulp, worms, and flies should continue to be top producers. Largemouths will hit spinner baits, large inline spinners, and soft plastics, while pickerel will chase spinners, and crappie will take small jigs. Worms will do nicely for any white perch. Atlantic salmon, searuns, seefs, and northerns, along with catfish and carp, are great additions to your catch.
Limited Opportunity:•Northeast Saltwater Fishing Club is seeking serious recreational fishers to bolster their wellestablished traditional organization involved with all aspects of marine fishing: dynamic tournaments, seminars, in-house charity/social functions, and community service such as supporting cancer foundations, Vets, kids, etc. With an eye to the future, these individuals will be brought into the fold with the idea of future growth for themselves and the club. Become one of the ten selected. Interested parties should contact President Robert Fischbach at fischbach@ccsu.edu or 203-605-6995.
Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.
For all things fishy, including the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2025 licenses/permits, and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call ahead (203-245-8665) for hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter and Authorized Penn Premium Dealer, 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
Madison Hoop Dreams
April Vacation Basketball Camp
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
Madison Hoop Dreams has an April vacation basketball camp from Tuesday, April 15 to Friday, April 18 at H-K Middle School in Killingworth. The program guarantees lots of fun during four days of basketball instruction and competition. There are terrific coaches and guest speakers to teach the game and to motivate the players.
For more information and to register, go to www.madisonhoopdreams.com.
The cost is $60 a day or $200 for the four days. If five or more players from a team attend, the cost is $175 a player. Financial assistance is offered for families in need of help. If you have any questions, please call or text Coach Bill Barker at 203-494-6905, or email him at wab6933@gmail.com.
Baseball Softball
PhotocourtesyofCaptainMorgan Dustin Ranciato of Guilford hooked into this 19” brown trout while fly fishing these pristine Vermont waters, with an eye towards guiding and related business development.
Fun By The Numbers
Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!
Last Week’s Answers
Here’s How It Works:
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Bread at Home
Living RECIPES with Liz Egan for
By
The creation of bread is one of the key developments in human history. Bread is among the most popular foods in the world. Whether it is leavened or unleavened, made into loaves or cakes, baked, steamed, or fried in oil, bread is universal. Bread occupies a prominent place in every civilization. A symbolic foodstuff international in scope, bread is the quintessential human food. Its history underlies a large part of the history of the human race. It connects people to culture, to tradition, and sometimes to religion.
As with much of early civilization, our knowledge of when people first made bread is limited by what evidence is available. The earliest proof we have of humans cooking bread is from 14,000 years ago at a site in Jordan, where scientists uncovered two structures, each containing a large stone fireplace containing the charred remains of breadcrumbs. It is not until around 1700 B.C., however, in Greece, that we find a proliferation of small, clay ovens that indicate not just widespread bread baking in individual households but also commercial bakeries.
During its life cycle, the grain of wheat dies and is reborn months later in the form of a spike capable of providing sustenance
to human beings. This “rebirth” and ability to provide sustenance has become symbolic in religion and culture. Wheat and bread are symbols of the fruitfulness of the earth. In Hebrew, Bethlehem means ”house of bread,” and God sends manna, the symbol of bread, from heaven to sustain the Hebrews as they crossed the desert. The Jewish matzoh is an unleavened bread to celebrate Passover. Many Christian faiths break a loaf of bread as part of their liturgical communion, the reenactment of the Last Supper. Bread also finds symbolic expression in now common phrases surrounding pregnancy and birth, such as having ”a bun in the oven.” Growing up, my family enjoyed bakery bread. After church on Sunday, we would stop at Stanley’s Bakery in East Islip, Long Island, and pick up one loaf of rye and pumpernickel breads and three loaves of white bread, all sliced. In addition, on Sundays, we were treated to hard rolls, crumb cake, and pastries, which accompanied our special weekly brunch. During the week, making school sandwiches for my many siblings was one of the chores I enjoyed. Laying out of the 10 bread slices and layering the lunch ingredients of the day, followed by the top, was both methodical and meditative in the midst of the chaotic environment that was a natural part of readying more than a dozen children for their day. Stanley’s Bakery is still in operation today. Even now, at events that gather my family, one sibling or another will happily make a stealth run to Stanley’s for their famous crumb cake.
See page 26
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan Braided challah and egg wash.
Quick loaves in the oven.
John's crusty bread.
Special to Living
Liz Egan
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Finished challah loaves.
from page 25
When I was young, bread was 19 cents a loaf. As these many years have passed, while the price has increased with the cost of living, bread has always seemed to be an inexpensive and necessary staple of a family’s shopping list. It is doubtful that the volume of food shopping my parents did in the ‘60s for such a large household could be sustained today. During a chat with my neighbor, who has too young boys, she mentioned that she was going to try baking bread at home to see if she could save money. Bread is made from simple ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. While it takes a bit of practice, making bread at home is inexpensive. And best of all, the creation of bread is centering and embraces all of the senses.
One rainy morning, I decided to try my hand at making braided challah bread. The tradition of challah is a very spiritual one. For observant Jews, it is a way to directly connect with the spiritual energy of God. In fact, baking challah is considered an important blessing in the Jewish home. Known simply as “hallah” in Biblical times, women would tear off a piece of dough and burn it in the fire as an offering. Today, challah is a sweet, braided bread made with eggs, fine white flour, water, yeast, sugar, and salt. It is typically enjoyed on ceremonial occasions such as Shabbat (Sabbath) and major Jewish holidays (other than Passover). The bread is a testament to the ability of a single bread to carry profound cultural and religious significance.
To make challah bread, I used the recipe on Tori Avery’s website, Tori Avery Challah Bread. At her informative site, she shares largely kosher recipes exploring the Mediterranean cuisine, culture, and traditions that she was raised in. It took the making of these two medium loaves to get the braiding part right. Two loaves are more than I can use, so sharing with several neighbors and friends becomes an added benefit. In addition, I had enough dough for a small, braided roll that I ate for lunch. You can also choose to make rolls instead of loaves with this delicious recipe.
My friend John Zachos has been enjoying making bread and sharing it with friends for a good long while. He brought this bread to our home during my husband Paul’s illness, a gift of self and a wish for nourishment and healing. John’s Crusty Bread recipe and the loaf he brought us were the most like artisanal loaves. Crispy crust and chewy inside, well-suited for hearty sandwiches and as an accompaniment to soup. My neighbor’s and my loaf breads are a work in progress but delicious, nonetheless. Her bread was perfect for my personal favorite - peanut butter and jelly on toast. The grilled cheese I made with both of these breads was superb. Leftover homemade bread makes amazing French toast.
Out of curiosity, I estimated the cost of baking bread. While it is not possible to buy just the exact measure of ingredients, I based the final cost on my ability to make all three recipes– that is a lot of bread! A five-pound bag of flour, a 3-pack of Fleischmann’s yeast, and a dozen large eggs - only the challah bread uses eggs, but figured the cost of the eggs would cover the other incidental ingredients needed. The total came to $14.87. Divided into three, it was under $5 for two large loaves of each bread. Bread freezes well. I have divided loaves and placed them in Ziploc freezer bags and stored them for several months. For me, the benefit of baking bread at home is not the savings. The smell of baking bread filling my home provided me with a warm stability that touched my soul. The physical act of creating tapped a portion of my inner self that connected me with this tradition in the history of civ-
illness, a gift of self and a wish for nourishment and healing. He shared an easy favorite recipe, which he adapted from the King Arthur website. He uses a kitchen scale to measure ingredients carefully, which is his secret to this delicious no-fail bread.
454g (2 c. plus a pinch) All Purpose
King Arthur Flour
340g lukewarm water (1-1/2 c.)
9g salt (1 1/2 tsp.)
7g (1 2/3 tsp.) Fleischmann’s instant or active dry yeast [one packet is 2 1/2 Tbsp.]
ilization. Sharing these loaves was a gift of self-connecting me to the kind of life and community I value.
Easy Loaf Bread
Super easy and delicious! Every meal is made better
1 2/3 cup warm water
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (I used the Fleischmann’s Fast-Acting)
1 tsp sugar
1 Tbsp. honey
1 1/2 Tbsp. butter, soft
4 cup flour
Combine yeast, sugar, and water in a mixing bowl fitted with a dough hook. Mix until foamy, about 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients to mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly 8-10 minutes. (if mixing by hand, mix for 15 minutes).
Grease a large bowl; place dough inside the bowl. Cover with a dish towel and set in a warm place. Let rise until double in size about 30 minutes.
Remove contents of bowl onto floured surface. Punch down dough by folding it over on itself until no longer sticky.
Divide the dough in half and roll into loaves. Another bit of flour may be needed.
Place loaves on oiled bread pan or 13 x 8 pan. Slice a few diagonal lines into the top. Pour a tablespoon of melted butter (or brush and egg wash or olive oil) over the top.
Sprinkle with kosher or coarse sea salt (optional). Bake at 380 degrees for 20 minutes or when tops are golden brown. Serve warm.
Tips
: When measuring flour, scoop from the container
2 1/4 tsp is approximately 1 1/2 packets of yeast. Use a with some warm bread! with a ½ cup measure and drop into a 1 cup measure. Level the top. Repeat for required cups of the recipe; measuring spoon and make sure it is leveled.
No Knead Crusty Loaf
My friend John Zachos has been enjoying making bread and sharing it with friends for a good long while. He brought this bread to our home during my husband Paul’s
In a large bowl or mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine water, yeast, and salt. Mix until combined. Add flour a bit at a time with mixer going or use a large wooden spoon to keep mixing and combining. Once all the flour is added, mix until fully combined. Turn out dough on a lightly floured surface and form into a mound. Place in a large clean bowl or pot greased with oil. Cover with a damp cloth, cover, or plastic wrap and place in a warm spot. Let rise for 90 minutes until it doubles in size. This may take a bit longer depending on weather and humidity. Once the dough rises, turn out onto a floured surface and form into a round mounded loaf. Brush the top with oil or egg white wash. Sprinkle with kosher salt or parmesan cheese (optional). This will help create a crisper crust. Bake for 30 minutes in a 350-degree oven. Make sure it is cooked through by inserting a toothpick until it comes out clean. If necessary, turn oven off, and let bread continue to bake gently as oven cools. Place bread on a wire rack to cool. Place a foil ‘tent’ over the bread if it starts to get too browned.
Notes: If using active yeast, place in a bowl with ¼ c. of lukewarm water and ‘activate’ it by mixing gently and letting sit until it becomes foamy. If using the rapid rise version, simply add it to the liquid ingredients prior to adding the flour.
I learned when I made challah bread that a great place to let dough rise is your oven. Place the large bowl with dough on the center rack. Place a roasting pan with boiling water in the bottom rack and close the door. Do not turn the oven on. Works great!
Quick Honey and Butter Loaf
I can’t remember when or where I acquired this handwritten recipe, but it is made in steps similar to my neighbors’ loaves. The addition of butter and honey adds warm and sweet notes. After I made it, I realized I should have let dough rise more fully and given it a few more minutes to gently bake by leaving it in the over after I shut it off following the allotted cook time.
1 2/3 c. lukewarm water
2 1/4 tsp. instant yeast (1 packet)
1 tsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. honey
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 Tbsp. softened butter
4 c. flour
Combine yeast, sugar, and water in a mixing bowl and let sit until foamy – 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients to mixing bowl and mix – 15 minutes. Place dough into a greased large clean bowl. Let rise in a warm place until double in size – at least 30 minutes. After dough has risen fully, turn out onto lightly floured surface. Punch down to remove air pockets. Divide dough into 2 loaves and shape into loaves in two separate oven safe dishes or bread pans. Bake at 380 degrees for 20 minutes.
Finished quick loaf.
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
George Flynn Concerts Presents Isidore String Quartet
On Sunday, May 11, The George Flynn Classical Concerts series presents the Isidore String Quartet. Winner of the 14th Banff International String Quartet Competition in 2022, the New York City-based Isidore String Quartet was formed in 2019 with a vision to revisit, rediscover, and reinvigorate the repertory. The quartet is heavily influenced by the Juilliard String Quartet and the idea of ”approaching the established as if it were brand new, and the new as if it were firmly established.”
The Isidore String Quartet has performed in Chicago, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Washington, Toronto, Edinburg, and Amsterdam and has collaborated with a number of eminent performers, including Jeremy Denk.
Free tickets must be ordered via the georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com website.
Clinton residents can order on a first-come, first-served basis one month before each concert. Non-residents can order two weeks before each concert, depending on availability. For further information, visit www.georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com www.facebook.com/ GeorgeFlynnClassicalConcerts
For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website, www.zip06.com.
THURSDAY,
APRIL 10
Vincent Van Gogh: From Paris to Arles to Eternity
: 11 a.m. Via Zoom. Presented by Bob Potter, art historian at the Lyme Academy of Art and docent at the Yale Center for British Art. Hosted by Madison Art Society. For info or to register (required to receive the Zoom link), email Marianne@RTDTECH.com.
Progressive Leaders of Today (PLOT) Quarterly Meeting
: Noon to 1 p.m. Via Zoom. Features a networking and community event for professionals about age 40 and under. For info or to register (required to receive the Zoom link), email christa@oldsaybrookchamber.com or visit oldsaybrookchamber.com.
Small Business Loans: Issues and Options
: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Online event. Features a panel of lending professionals from a cross section of small business lenders, including Berkshire Bank, the Community Economic Development Fund (CEDF), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and Southeastern Connecticut Enterprise Region (seCTer). Hosted by SCORE Eastern Connecticut Chapter. Free. For info or to register (required), score.org/easternct/local-workshops.
Fused Glass Garden Panel
: Noon to 3 p.m. RiverFire Glass Studio at SoMA, 500 Main St., Deep River. Features a two-part class. After the first firing, participants will bring everything together in the second session (Thursday, April 17), and assemble their full garden panel before its final firing. Once complete, the glass garden will be ready for pickup in about 10 days. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and safety glasses are required. Bring an N95 facemask in case glass powder is involved in the class. No prior experience required. Cost: $190. Service fees apply. For info or to register, call 860-864-5004 or visit riverfireglass.com.
Calendar for the Week of April 10, 2025
Transitions into Adolescence and Adulthood
: 12:30 to 2 p.m. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St. A second session from 6:30 to 8 p.m. also takes place via Zoom. Part of the monthly support group meetings for parents and grandparents of children diagnosed with Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder/Asperger Syndrome. Free and open to residents of Old Saybrook and surrounding towns. For info, or to register, call OSYFS at 860-395-3190 or email counselor Joanne Baker Deal at joannebakerdeal@gmail.com.
Container Gardening:
6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Covers how to select the best containers, choose the right plants, and design a layout that showcases a specific style. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
See page 28
Press Release from the George Flynn Classical Concert Series
Photo courtesy of the George Flynn Classic Concert Series Isidore String Quartet.
Continued from page 27
Homeschool Day: Little Universes
: 1 to 3 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Features a hands-on lesson to peek into the lives of insects, baby insects, and microscopic critters that call the Connecticut River home. Part of Homeschool Days, a drop-off program for homeschool learners ages 6 to 12 and their families to learn about the history and natural environment of the Connecticut River through hands-on activities. Refunds will be given with a 24-hour notice. Payment will be refunded in the event of a weather-related cancellation. For info or reservations (required), call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.
and Loss
: 6 to 7 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Presented by Ben James, an audio and print journalist based in western Massachusetts. Part of the Live from the Boathouse lectures. Cost: free for members, $5 for nonmembers. Virtual participation via Zoom is an option. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.
: 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a talk about the Green Old Saybrook Community Tree and Shrub Planting Guide developed by the Town of Old Saybrook. Presented by landscape designer Kathy Connolly, who helped develop the guide, which is available as a free e-book and is a searchable PDF. For a pdf of the guide, click on the "Tree Guide and Initiatives" at oldsaybrookct.gov/land-use. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Molds, Mushrooms, and Mycorrhizae: Fungal Friends and Foes in the Garden
:
6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Hosted by the Clinton Arbor Garden Club. Presented by Sarah Selke, a master gardener and biology professor at Connecticut State Community College, Three Rivers. For info, call 203-710-0133 or visit hchlibrary.org.
FRIDAY, APRIL 11
Red Cross Blood Drive
: Noon to 5 p.m. First Church of Christ, 366 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Five Fridays Lenten Concert Series
: 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Features a performance on the church’s 1929 Möller pipe organ by Ezequiel Menéndez, professor of organ at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, and former director of music and organist at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hartford. Sponsored in part by the New London County Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Attendees listen in the sanctuary or on the Town Green as the music is broadcast through the church speakers. Fourth of five Fridays through April 18. Free and open to all. For info, call 203-245-2739, ext. 14, or visit fccmadison.org.
Writers Writing
: 1 to 2:15 p.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. For adults, seniors, and homeschoolers ages 15 and up. Covers different genres of writing, including fairy tales, children's stories, letters to the editor, poetry, and personal essays. Other dates: Fridays, April 25, May 9, and May 23. Attendees may try out a particular writing style and attend any date they prefer. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Author Event: Colm Tóibín
Long Island: A Novel
: 6 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . Cost: $5 includes admission for one and a $5 coupon toward purchase of a copy of the book at the event or $18.99 admission for one and a copy of the book. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
Military Whist Game Night
: 6:30 p.m.
First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Includes prizes for top players and a raffle. Cost: $15 per player. Advance purchase required. Hosted by the Women's Club of Madison. For info, contact Joan Powers at 917-601-8194 or jonci1@Verizon.net, or visit womensclubmadisonct.com.
The Occasional Coffee House: Sam Robbins
: 7 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd. Features live music, coffee, and a relaxed evening with friends. Tickets: $20. Space is limited. For info or tickets, visit northmadisoncc.org/occasional-coffeehouse.
Open Mic with Terri Lachance
: 7 to
9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Café, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Minimum three songs for each performer, more if time allows.
Family Day Set for April 26
The Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center invites families to an afternoon of fun and discovery at its annual Family Day on Saturday, April 26, from 1 to 5 p.m. This community event will take place along the banks of the Lieutenant River, offering an exciting lineup of activities for all ages. Families can enjoy a variety of engaging experiences, including science experiments, nature building, games, crafts, and plein air painting along the river. At 3 p.m., local band Sunny Train will take the stage, providing live music and entertain-
House piano and sound system available. Admission: $5 donation at the door. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.
FRIDAY, APRIL 11 AND
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
An Evening with Garrison Keillor
: Friday,
8 p.m.; Saturday, 2 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.
ment, including giant bubbles that are sure to delight attendees of all ages. The Lions Club will also be on-site, offering hamburgers and hot dogs for purchase throughout the afternoon.
Family Day will be held at the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center in Old Lyme. The cost is $10 per family, and while registration is recommended, it is not required. Families can register online in advance or pay at the door on the day of the event.
For more information and to register, visit www.ctaudubon.org/2025/03/registerfamily-day-4-26-25.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
59th Annual Easter Egg Hunt:
10 a.m. Madison Surf Club, 87 Surf Club Rd. Children from pre-K to grade 2 are invited. Hosted by the Madison Exchange Club. Rain date: Saturday, April 19. For info, visit madisonexchange.org/easter-egg-hunt.
See page 29
Photo courtesy of Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center
The Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center invites families to an afternoon of fun and discovery at its annual Family Day on Saturday, April 26.
Press Release from the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center
Life
Along the Connecticut River Green Old Saybrook
Continued from page 28
Annual Shredding Day
: 9 a.m. to noon. Clinton Chamber of Commerce parking lot, 50 E. Main St. Vehicles enter from the Town Hall driveway entrance, 54 E. Main St., and drive around to the Clinton Chamber/Town Annex parking lot. Cost: $10 per copy paper-sized box. Staples and paper clips do not have to be removed. Open to the public. For info, contact 860-669-3889 or chamber@clintonctchamber.com, or visit clintonct.com.
Preview Screening and Panel Discussion:
Free for All:
The Public Library
: 10 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with former Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin, former Executive Director of the American Library Association Keith Michael Fiels, and Hartford Public Library President and CEO Bridget E. Quinn. Essex Library Executive Director Ann Thompson moderates the panel discussion. Free and open to the public. The film will debut Tuesday, April 29, at 10 p.m. on PBS and the PBS app. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
The Return of the Osprey
: 10 to 11 a.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Alan Poole. Sponsored by Friends of Hammonasset. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.
Living History Day at the Daffodil Farm
: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum. Presented by the Cromwell Historical Society and the Dirty Blue Shirts living historians. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.
Annual Spring Craft Fair and Bake Sale
: 10 a.m. to
3 p.m. Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St., Durham. Features handmade crafts, Easter and spring decor, and an assortment of baked goods. For info, contact the church rectory at 860-349-3058 or scndchurches@comcast.net.
Math Rules: Roller Coaster Fun
: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. For ages 7 to 11. Features a math and science program where participants build a marble roller coaster. For info or to register (required), call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.
What Makes a Bird a Bird
: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. For children ages 5 and up. Presented by environmental educator Julie Ainsworth. Participants will learn about bird beaks, feathers, and bird colors (male and female), then design and create their own bird with adaptations for feeding, moving, and survival. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Osprey Day
: Noon to 2 p.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison. Features the opening of a new educational exhibit, . Sponsored by Friends of Hammonasset. No registration needed. For info, call 203-245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.
Osprey Nest
STEAM Saturday: Save the Egg
: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free and open to children in ages 5 to 12. Participants will use recycled materials to create a protective structure to keep an egg safe. In the process, they will learn the principles of physics, engineering, and design as well as concepts like impact force, cushioning, and structural integrity. Seating and materials are limited. For info or to register (required), contact the library at 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
Spring Crafts with Natalie: DIY Wildflower Seed Bombs Saturday Cinema
: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For adults. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
: 2 to 4:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to all. Limited seating. Registration is suggested. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Sweet Saturday Nights: Lucas Neil and Princess June Concert by Slambovian Circus of Dreams
:
7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Tickets: $10. Service fees apply. Refreshments are available for purchase. For info or tickets, visit musicnowfoundation.org/events.
: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12 AND
SUNDAY, APRIL 13
Con Brio Choral Society Concert with Festival Orchestra and Soloist Ransom Bruce
: Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 4 p.m. Christ the King Church, 1 McCurdy Rd., Old Lyme. In honor of the retirement of Stephen Bruce, music director, and Susan Saltus, associate music director. Tickets: $40. For info or tickets, call 860-526-5399 or visit conbrio.org.
SUNDAY, APRIL 13
Palm Sunday Mass
: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-2457301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.
Palm Sunday Service
: 8:30 and 10 a.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. The blessing of the palms for the 10 a.m. service will take place at the outdoor chapel. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.
Palm Sunday Service
: 8:30 and 10 a.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. Features blessing of the palms and reading of the Passion. For info, contact the church at 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.
Palm Sunday Service
: 10 a.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. For info, call 203-245-2739 or visit fccmadison.org.
: 10 a.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. A celebration of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem with children carrying palms. For info, visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.
Palm Sunday Service Concert by Tusk
: 3 and 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
Opening Reception for
: 4 to 6 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library Keyes Gallery 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. The show runs through Monday, May 26. For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/gallery.
MONDAY, APRIL 14
Movie Matinee
: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free and open to all. No registration is needed. For info, including the movie title, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.
Art for All: Make a Matisse
: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. For adults and seniors. Presented by Gunnar Johnson, retired graphic designer and journalist. Participants can make a Matisse-inspired collage. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
MONDAY, APRIL 14 THROUGH THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Open House
TUESDAY, APRIL 15
Spring Break Camp: Sailor Life, Pirates, and
The Missing Pictures: Photographs by Sean Kernan RiverQuest
: Tours begin 9 a.m., 10 a.m., and 1 p.m. The Country School, 341 Opening Hill Rd., Madison. Guests tour the campus while classes are in session, learn about the admission process, and see the programs in action. Free and open to the public. For info or to register, call 203-421-3113 or visit thecountryschool.org. : 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Drop off 9 to 9:10 a.m. Pick up 1 p.m. Wear closed-toe footwear and bring insect repellent, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, and water bottle. No nut-based foods. Optional: Bring a hat and sunglasses. Cost: $60 for members, $70 for nonmembers. For info, call 860-7678269, ext. 121, or visit ctrivermuseum.org.
Fuseday Tuesday: Pick Your Project
: Noon to 2:30 p.m. RiverFire Glass Studio at SoMA, 500 Main St., Deep River. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and safety glasses are required. Bring an N95 facemask in case glass powder is involved in the class. No prior experience required. Cost: $64. Service fees apply. For info or to register, call 860864-5004 or visit riverfireglass.com.
Horoscopes Crossword
For the week of April 10 - April 16
ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20
Expect some valuable insight regarding your future to emerge in the next few days, Aries. It won’t be difficult to set plans in motion when you have the right people on your side.
TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, take a breather and give some careful thought to your recent experiences and your expectations going forward. You will benefit from this in the long run.
GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21
You are focused on your work, Gemini. However, distractions are beyond your control right now and will pull your attention away from what matters to higher-ups.
CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22
Romantic endeavors are a little hard to plan and consider right now, Cancer. Just stick to what your intuition is telling you and you will come out just fine in the end.
LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you might be called upon to be a mediator for friends or loved ones who need a fresh set of eyes. Keep a cool demeanor and a level head and you can lead them to a resolution.
VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you are drawn to creative projects, but avoid using them to put off other endeavors. These distractions will only delay the inevitable and then youÕll be pressed for time.
APRIL 10
Mandy Moore, Actress (41)
APRIL 11
Ken Carson, Rapper (25)
APRIL 12
Brandon Urie, Singer (38) APRIL 13
Rick Schroder, Actor (55)
LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, carefully schedule your time this week, as you cannot afford to get behind on your assignments at work or in school. You also have many important appointments on the calendar.
SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, someone comes to you for advice this week and wants you to keep their situation private. You need to help them without betraying their request for confidentiality.
SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21
It is possible your mind will wander this week, Sagittarius. You might not be able to focus on the tasks at hand, and will need to focus extra hard to limit distractions.
CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, pay attention to detail in all things that you do. Be mindful of this when tending to professional and personal matters.
AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, the simplest resolution is often the best one. Keep this mind when tackling a perplexing problem in the days ahead.
PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, you are eager to sail through your to-do list, and certain tasks need to be postponed to address those that are high-priority. Rearrange things accordingly.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
APRIL 14
Chris Wood, Actor (37)
APRIL 15
Jordan Chiles, Athlete (24) APRIL 16
Sadie Sink, Actress (23)
CLUES ACROSS
1. Garden tool
5. A way to preserve
11. Gratitude
14. Domestic sheep
15. Simpler
18. Cavities containing liquid
19. Large fish-eating bird
21. Ocular protection index
23. Phil __, former CIA
24. Icelandic poems
28. Pop
29. Device
30. Actor Rudd
32. A pituitary hormone
33. Focus on an object
35. Corpuscle count (abbr.)
36. Young Women’s association
39. Not shallow
41. Doctor
42. Furniture
44. Hindu male religious teacher
46. Highly spiced stew
47. A way to communicate
49. Almost last
52. Astronomer Carl
56. Small horses
58. A slender tower with balconies
60. A disrespectful quality
62. Fully shaded inner regions
63. Short convulsive intake of breath
CLUES DOWN
1. Popular Sunday dinner option
2. Oil cartel
3. Agile
4. Greek goddess of discord
5. Genetically distinct variety
6. Indicates badly
7. Popular Mr. T character
8. Consumed
9. Chinese dynasty
10. NFL great Randy
12. Within
13. Palm trees
16. Fungal disease
17. Tall, slender-leaved plants
20. Affirmative! (slang)
22. A passport is one
25. Two outs in baseball (abbr.)
26. Swiss river
27. Deferential
29. Where a bachelor lives
31. Portable computer screen material
34. A crying noise of a bird
36. Sticky, amorphous substance
37. Starchy dish of dried tubers
38. Type of acid
40. Partner to “Ma”
43. 16 ounces
45. The Bay State
48. A well-defined track or path
50. Substitution
51. Defined period
53. Group of toughs
54. Region
55. Famed Scottish Loch
57. Blood relation
58. Not around
59. Recipe measurement
61. Father to Junior
Word Search
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.
Madison Lyric Stage Presents World Premiere of ‘A Memory of Truth?’
Press Release from Madison Lyric Stage
Madison Lyric Stage (MLS), a professional theater company on the Connecticut shoreline, will present the world premiere of , an original play with music for four performances May 9 to 11 at the MLS theater tent on the ground of Madison’s Deacon John Grave House.
A Memory of Truth?
This compelling new work by Marc Deaton is an evocative exploration of memory, truth, and the complex ties of family. Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest, the play spans the 1950s to the 1990s, tracing the lives of three women—Delilah and her daughters, Dinah and Eve—through the lens of Thaddius, Dinah’s son. The narrative unfolds through a series of scenes that reveal deeply held secrets, betrayals, and unspoken loyalties, offering an emotionally raw and thought-provoking experience.
“This play is extremely personal to me as it is inspired by my own life and family growing up,” said Deaton, artistic director of Madison Lyric Stage. ”I hope audiences will join us for this extraordinary theatrical event that challenges perceptions, evokes deep emotions, and contemplates the nature of truth itself.” is more than just a
A Memory of Truth?
Continued from page 29
Tasty Tuesday with Storybook Characters
play—it is a theatrical and musical journey, incorporating traditional hymns, Gregorian chant, and inspirations from Mozart and Fauré, all composed and arranged by Nathaniel Baker. The fusion of drama and music intensifies the themes of human cruelty and survival, making for an unforgettable performance that is both harrowing and humorous, deeply poignant and profoundly resonant.
The play features a cast of eight representing four characters in two generations, with Susan Kulp and Allison Waggener as Dinah, Catherine Cavender and Allison Lindsay as Eve, and Debi Freund and Mary McCue as Delilah. Logan Clingan and Marc Deaton share the role of Thaddius. The performance will also feature a four-piece orchestra conducted by Nathaniel Baker. will be presented in cooperation with Madison Youth and Family Services (MYFS), with onsite fundraising opportunities for MYFS’s Back to School program, which provides critical support in the form of supplies and gift cards to local students from families experiencing financial hardship.
A Memory of Truth?
A Memory of Truth?
Tickets for are $40 and are available at madisonlyricstage.org. The Deacon John Grave House is located at 581 Boston Post Road in Madison.
All CT Reads Book Club:
: 1 p.m.
Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. Features an interactive story time a food theme for children and their adults. Books may include by Rita Golden Gelman and by Kimberly and James Dean. Part of the HK Unplugged for Promoting Wellness initiative, held in conjunction with the Week of the Young Child. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
More Spaghetti, I Say Pete the Cat and the Perfect Pizza Party
Kids Create: Jumbo Beaded Lizards
: 2:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Children will string together noodle "beads" to design a big, bendy, and vibrant lizard. Free and open to children ages 5 to 12. To register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560. For info, visit youressexlibrary.org.
May 9 to 11 at the MLS theater tent on the ground of Madison’s Deacon John Grave House.
2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Book: by Etaf Rum. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Navigating Menopause: The Town Hall
: 7 p.m. The
: 6 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book:
Uncharted: How Trump Beat Biden, Harris, and the Odds in the Wildest Campaign in History
. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
: 6 to 8 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. For info, call 860-434-1961 or visit danstevens.net or musicnowfoundation.org/events.
Author Event: Chris Whipple in Conversation with Cynthia McFadden Pickin’ Party Trivia Night Evil Eye
: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For info, contact 860-6692342 or sudie@hchlibrary.org.
Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features a discussion hosted by WTNH-TV news anchor Ann Nyberg. Free admission but tickets are required to attend. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. :
Spring Break Camp: River Explorers and
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16 RiverQuest
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Drop off 9 to 9:10 a.m. Pick up 1 p.m. Wear closedtoe footwear and bring insect repellent, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, and water bottle. No nut-based foods. Optional: Bring a hat and sunglasses. Cost: $60 for members, $70 for nonmembers. For info, call 860-767-8269, ext. 121, or visit ctrivermuseum.org.
Photo courtesy of Madison Lyric Stage
Madison Lyric Stage will present the world premiere of A Memory of Truth?, an original play with music for four performances
BLT Speaker Series Continues for Earth Day
Have you noticed more and more dead trees in our state? What’s going on, and how can you help? Explore answers on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m. with forester David Irvin from the DEEP Forestry Division. His presentation on Forest Health in an Era of Climate Change is part of the Branford Land Trust Winter Speaker Series and will be held at the Blackstone Memorial Library.
This important presentation discusses the latest slew of forest health pests and pathogens and how climate change tends to exacerbate the impacts of insects, disease, and weather on the overall health of our forests. What’s going on, and what can be done? Irvin will also explain how forests can be made more diverse and resilient to better withstand the onslaught of new environmental challenges.
David Irvin is a forester for the DEEP Forestry Division. He has been a professional forester for 34 years in several states. For most of his 28 years with DEEP, he has been responsible for the management of specific state forests in the northwest hills of Connecticut. He has actively participated in forest fire control both here in the state and nationally, as needed. From 2020 to 2024, he handled most social media outreach work for the Forestry Division. In 2024, David left the
State Lands Management Program of the Forestry Division to cross over to the Private and Municipal Lands Program. He now provides advice and assistance to private landowners, municipalities, and land trusts in the Central one-third of Connecticut.
This event and the Winter Speaker Series events are free and open to the public. It will be held in person at the Blackstone Library, 758 Main Street, Branford.
The Branford Land Trust Winter 2025 Speaker Series is made possible by a grant from the Branford Community Foundation and Guilford Savings Bank. Save the Date for our Annual Meeting presentation: “Insects and Water” with Julie Michaelson (May 12).
The Branford Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, accredited by the Land Trust Alliance, established in 1967 to protect Branford’s open space and natural resources. Run by volunteers and supported by member families and businesses, the Land Trust maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails, and manages and protects over 1,000 acres in more than 130 parcels and holds conservation easements on another 400 acres in Branford. For more information and to become a member, visit www.branfordland trust.org.
Continued from page 32
What Our DNA Reveals About Our Ancestors
: 10 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Samantha Miller from the Yale Peabody Museum Speakers Bureau. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.
Marketing Strategy and Customer Engagement
: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Online event. Presented by Margo Weitekamp, a marketing professional and SCORE mentor. Free. Hosted by SCORE Eastern Connecticut. Sponsored by Guilford Savings Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct.
: Noon to 4:45 p.m. Valley-Shore YMCA, 201 Spencer Plains Rd., Westbrook. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-7332767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Wildlife Detectives
: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 5 to 10. Participants will learn how to read animal tracks, signs, and movements, then make their own wildlife track to take home. Presented by Emily Nelson, director at Bushy Hill Nature Center. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
Acoustic Artists Story Teller Series: The Sweet Polly Duo
: 6 to 7:45 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For participants of all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. For info or to register (required), visit actonlibrary.org/events.
Adult Movie Night
: 6 to 8:20 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. In line with the movie showing, complimentary prohibition-inspired mocktails will be served. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Author Event: Chloe Barcelou and Brandon Batchelder
Tales of a Not So Tiny House
: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
Holy Wednesday Tenebrae Service
:
7 p.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Spring Break Camp: Historic Voyagers and Maundy Thursday Services
: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Drop off 9 to 9:10 a.m. Pick up 1 p.m. Wear closed-toe footwear and bring insect repellent, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, water bottle. No nut-based foods. Optional: Bring a hat and sunglasses. Cost: $60 for members, $70 for nonmembers. For info, call 860-767-8269, ext. 121, or visit ctrivermuseum.org.
: 3, 6, and 7 p.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. The 3 p.m. service features the Stations of the Cross in the Memorial Garden. The 6 p.m. features the Agape Meal; attendees are asked to sign up in the Griswold Room. The 7 p.m. features the Holy Eucharist, washing of the feet, and stripping of the altar. For info, contact the church at 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.
Kids' Cookie Decorating Class
: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 5 to 12. Presented by baker Stacey Britner from The Cookie Jar. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
Building Blocks, From Atoms to Anatomy
: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by Yale doctorate students Miranda Margulis-Ohnuna, Aurora Miranda, and Shahank Dattathro. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
Brenda Milkofsky Curatorial Fund Dinner
: 6 to 9 p.m. Old Lyme Country Club, 40 McCurdy Rd., Old Lyme. Features a presentation by Connecticut historian Frank Mitchell on "Radiance from the Waters: Late 19th-Century Shipboard Performances. Tickets start $125. For info or tickets, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.
Agape Meal RiverQuest
: 6:30 p.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 50 Emmanuel Church Rd., Killingworth. An event to commemorate Jesus’ last meal and reflect on His commandment to love one another. For info, email roseprel@gmail.com or visit churchinthewilderness.org.
See page 34
Photo courtesy of the Branford Land Trust
David Irvin from the DEEP Forestry Division will present on Forest Health in an Era of Climate Change is part of the Branford Land Trust Winter Speaker Series.
Press Release from the Branford Land Trust
Red Cross Blood Drive
Good Friday Service and Holy Communion
Continued from page 33
Author Event: Gina Barreca
Fast Famous Women: 75 Essays of Flash Nonfiction
: 630 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
Author Event: Howard Fishman
: 6:30 p.m. Masonicare at Chester Village, 317 W. Main St. Book:
To Anyone Who Ever Asks: The Life, Music, and Mystery of Connie Converse
Sponsored by the Chester Public Library. For info or to register, contact 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org.
Maundy Thursday Mass
: 7 p.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-245-7301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.
Maundy Thursday Service
: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. For info, call 203-245-2739 or visit fccmadison.org.
: 3 p.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-245-7301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.
Mission to the Moon: Launch It!
: 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 8 to 12. Participants will learn about the engineering design process with a hands-on design challenge building an air-powered rocket that can hit a distant target. Presented by educators from the Society of Women Engineers. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
Tenebrae Service
: 7 p.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 50 Emmanuel Church Rd., Killingworth. Features a solemn candle lighting and ending in silence and darkness. For info, email roseprel@gmail.com or visit churchinthewilderness.org.
Good Friday Service
Chauncey Stillman Gallery
: Lyme Academy of Fine Arts, 84 Lyme St., South Lot, Old Lyme: For info, visit lymeacademy.edu.
True to Form: Academic Figure Studies from the Late 19th to Early 20th Centuries
: Runs through April 27.
Connecticut River Museum
: 67 Main St., Essex: For info, call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.
River Ballads: Artwork by Barbara Hocker
: Runs through May 18.
Essex Library Buel Room
: 33 West Ave.: For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
Anna Scanlon Art Exhibit
: Runs through May 1.
Flat Rock Gallery
Future Choices 2025 Exhibition
: 314 Flat Rock Place, Westbrook: For info, contact 203-421-6739 or office@shorelinearts.org. : Runs through April 11 and April 23 through April 27.
Masonicare at Chester Village
: 7 p.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. Includes the traditional washing of the feet. The service is followed by an overnight watch. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.
Maundy Thursday Service Shoreline Sailing Club Meeting
: 7 p.m. Clark Memorial Field, 210 Elm St., Old Saybrook. For active singles 35 and over. Features a discussion of safe boating practices by Kate Mosley. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Cost: free for members and first-time guests, $10 for others. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.
Show by Tim Cotter
: 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, APRIL 18
: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.
: Noon and 3 p.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. The noon service features the liturgy with reserved Sacrament. The 3 p.m. features the Stations of the Cross. For info, contact the church at 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.
: 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Features a performance on the church’s 1929 Möller pipe organ by Nathan Bayreuther, director of music ministry at First Congregational Church of Madison. Sponsored in part by the New London County Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Attendees listen in the sanctuary or on the Town Green as the music is broadcast through the church speakers. Last of five Fridays in the series. Free and open to all. For info, call 203245-2739, ext. 14, or visit fccmadison.org.
: 7 p.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.
Good Friday Tenebrae
: 7 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. Features a reading of Jesus’ walk to the cross and crucifixion and extinguishing of candles to accompany Him into the darkness of the tomb. For info, contact the church at 203421-3241 or office@northmadisioncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.
Concert by Tom DiMenna and Friends: Story Songs of the 70s
: 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.
Lunar Praxis: A Creative Gathering
: 8 to 9 p.m. Via Zoom. For artists and creative individuals to have time for quiet reflection, journaling, or creative thinking. Led by Margaret McNellis. Free. For info, visit artandastrology.substack.com.
FRIDAY, APRIL 18 AND SATURDAY, APRIL 19
Easter Vigil: Keeping Watch
: Friday, 8 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. Churchgoers take shifts to keep watch while Jesus is entombed. For info, contact the church at 203-421-3241 or office@northmadisioncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.
ONGOING EVENTS
Art Exhibits
Andrews Memorial Town Hall:
54 E. Main St., Clinton: For info, visit clintonartsocietyct.org/exhibitions.
Clinton Art Society 2025 Winter Juried Members Artists Show
: Runs through April 24.
: 317 W. Main St.: For info, call 860-531-1400.
Michele F. Tycz: A Retrospective Exhibit
: Runs through April 30.
Spectrum Art Gallery
: 61 Main St., Centerbrook: For info, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org. : Runs through May 3.
Good Morning, Good Night
Susan Powell Fine Art
Spring into Art
Vincent Giarrano: City Color
David Dunlop: Quest for Radiance
: 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison: For info, call 203-318-0616 or visit susanpowellfineart.com. : Runs through April 26. : Runs May 2 through May 31. : Runs June 6 through July 6.
Village Herbery
8x8 Paintings by the River Valley Artists
Music
Bill’s Seafood Restaurant:
: 14 Union St., Deep River: For info, visit rivervalleyartists.com. : Runs through May 11. Rte. 1, Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-7224 or visit BillsSeafood.com.
First and third Wednesdays: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Corinthian Jazz Band.
Fridays: 7 to 9 p.m. Bill’s Seafood All-Star Jazz Band. Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Various performers. Sundays: 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Various performers.
Nightingale’s Acoustic Café:
68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Donation $5 to $10 at the door. For info, email gstevens@musicnowfoundation.org or visit musicnowfoundation.org.
Tuesdays: 6 to 8 p.m. Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Last Friday: 7 to 9 p.m. Teen Open Mic. Sweet Saturday Nights: 7 to 9 p.m. Various performers.
Seaview Bistro at Water's Edge Resort & Spa
: 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, visit watersedgeresortandspa.com.
Fridays and Saturdays: 9 p.m. to midnight. Various performers.
See page 35
Opera Theater Announces Season-Opening Concert
Opera Theater of Connecticut (OTC) is pleased and excited to be starting its 40th year of producing professional opera on the Connecticut Shoreline for music lovers from across the state and the country. OTC is the oldest opera company in Connecticut and a destination performing arts company.
Melodies of Spring
To start their Ruby Anniversary Season, OTC presents on Sunday, May 4, a fundraising concert that will sing the praises of the seasons, love, and glorious music.
The concert begins at 4 p.m. at the Lutheran Church of Madison, 9 Britton Lane, in Madison.
Eric Trudel will accompany the ensemble of professional singers performing a variety of opera, operetta, and musical theater pieces.
OTC Artistic Director Alan Mann will serve as master of cer-
emonies and chief raconteur, punctuating the concert with witty and informative commentary. Projected slides will provide translations of the pieces as needed.
Enjoy wine, cheese, and other delights at a post-performance reception.
General admission tickets are $40 and may be ordered by visiting operatheaterofct.org or calling the office at 860-669-8999.
Later this season, OTC presents Wine, Women, and Song, an annual event, starting at 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 22, once more at the Woodwinds Banquet Hall, Branford, an afternoon of select fine wines, substantial buffet stations, thrilling singers, and witty commentary.
And to celebrate their 40th year of producing affordable opera in an intimate setting, OTC presents the operetta classic comedy , sung in English, and with its witty dialogue, originally written in 1874, updated by Alan Mann to parody contemporary events. opens on Thursday evening, Aug. 7, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 9 and 10, 2025. Visit operatheaterofct.org for more information and to purchase tickets.
Die Fledermaus
Die Fledermaus
Continued from page 34
The Choo Choo Lounge at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina:
2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-3952000.
Thursdays and Sundays: 6 to 9 p.m. Live music.
The Highliner III:
139 Essex Rd., Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-5042 or visit thehighliner3.com.
Fridays and Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Live music. Second and fourth Thursdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Open mic.
The Tap Room at The Griswold Inn:
36 Main St., Essex. No cover charge. For info, call 860-767-1776 or visit griswoldinn.com.
Fridays: 8:30 p.m. to midnight. Psychedelic ‘60s.
The Wharf:
Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. For info, call 203-350-0014 or visit thewharfmadison.com.
Acoustics Club:
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. On temporary break for winter. Bring your own acoustic instrument. No registration required. For info, call 203245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
American Girl Doll Club:
6 to 6:45 p.m. First Thursday. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children in grades 1 through 4. Dolls don’t have to be American Girl. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Art Critique Series (General Critique Session):
10 a.m. to noon. First Thursday. Via Zoom. Artists may send works as jpeg attachments prior to the session to casclinton@gmail.com. Sponsored by the Clinton Art Society (CAS). For info, email casclinton@gmail.com.
Art Critique Series (Special-Themed Session):
Ask-A-Lawyer: A Free Legal Clinic:
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
10:30 a.m. First Sunday. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. For grieving parents, grandparents, and siblings suffering the loss of children and family members. For info, call Vanessa Pentz at 203-645-7777.
Bereaved Parents USA and PS It Hurts Support Group: Bingo:
6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Cost: $12 per person. For info, call 860-3881611.
Board Game Club
Groups and Activities
Fridays: 8 to 10 p.m. Acoustic Fridays. Various performers. 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. Free. Registration is required to receive a Zoom link. For info, contact 203-245-5695 or gillespiee@madisonct.org.
A Journey Through America’s Past: Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group:
5 to 6 p.m.
Second Tuesday. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free. No registration. For info, call 860-767-1560.
10 a.m. to noon. Third Thursday. Via Zoom. Runs November through April. Artists may send works as jpeg attachments prior to the session to casclinton@gmail.com. Sponsored by the Clinton Art Society (CAS). For info, email casclinton@gmail.com.
Arts and Entertainment with Deborah Gilbert:
6 p.m.
Tuesdays. Valley Shore Community Television Inc., 1587 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, call 203-912-2319 or visit vsctv.com.
: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Third Thursday. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. All ages welcome. For info, contact 860-526-0018 or ChesterKidLib@gmail.com.
Books on Tap Book Club:
6 to 7 p.m. Second Wednesday. Myrcene Ale Co., 39 Ragged Rock Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to patrons ages 21 and up. Sponsored by the Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Press Release from Opera Theater of Connecticut
Photo courtesy of Opera Theater of Connecticut Opera Theater of Connecticut celebrates its 40th season.
Continued from page 35
Chair Yoga with Martha:
6:30 p.m. Fourth Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Chester Blood Pressure Clinic:
2 to 3 p.m. Third Tuesday. 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.
Coastal Camera Club Meeting:
7 p.m. First and third Wednesdays. Via Zoom. To register (required), contact wfrprs@att.net. For info, visit coastalcameraclub.org.
Coloring and Conversation:
2 to 3 p.m. First Monday. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Registration is suggested. For info or to register, contact Cindy Baklik at 860-395-3184 or cbaklik@actonlibrary.org, or visit actonlibrary.org.
Community Breakfast
: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturdays. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Hosted by The Shoreline Soup Kitchen & Pantries, Madison. For info, email mainoffice@fccmadison.org or visit shorelinesoupkitchens.org.
Compassion Kits:
4 p.m. Wednesdays. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Participants knit and/or crochet items for charity. Needles, yarn, and patterns are provided, but participants may bring their own. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Cookbook Club:
6 to 7:30 p.m. Fourth Tuesday. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Craft Night:
6 p.m. Third Tuesday. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to ages 14 and up. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Craft of the Month:
6 to 7:30 p.m. First Tuesday. Creative Loft at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Creative Craft Night
: 6 p.m. Tuesdays. Creative Loft at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Creative Writing Group:
6 p.m. Second Monday. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For info, contact 860-669-2342 or sarah@hchlibrary.org.
Discussion Group: The Atlantic Magazine:
10:30 a.m.
Fourth Wednesday. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For info, call 860-669-2342 or email sarah@hchlibrary.org.
Duplicate Bridge:
6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. First Church of Christ in Saybrook, Congregational, 366 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-388-0693.
Ekphrastic Poetry Trust:
3 to 4:30 p.m. Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Participants create poetry from art. No registration required. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
F3 Shoreline Men’s Bootcamp Workout:
5:30 a.m. Fridays. Madison Town Campus, 8 Campus Dr. Free and open to all men. Held outdoors rain or shine. For info, email F3shoreline@gmail.com.
Family Support Group:
6 p.m. First Monday. Via Zoom. Offered by BHcare. A group for family members and caregivers who assist people through their journey of mental wellness. For info, call 203-800-7177 or visit BHcare.org.
Fiber Arts Club:
10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fridays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Drop-ins welcome. Bring your own project. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Forever Young: A Young Adult Book Club:
6 to 7:30 p.m. Last Wednesday bimonthly. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
French Conversation Group:
3 to 4 p.m. Mondays. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Drop-ins welcome. For info, call 860-767-1560.
Friday Movie Matinee:
2 to 4 p.m. Second and fourth Fridays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Registration recommended. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Future Artists:
9:30 to 10 a.m. Fourth Monday. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560.
Genealogy Interest Group:
2:30 to 4 p.m. Second and fourth Tuesdays. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Drop-ins welcome. For info, call 860-767-1560.
Genealogy with Marcy Fuller:
6 to 8 p.m. Fourth Tuesday. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. No appointment necessary. For info, call the library at 860399-6422.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group:
5:30 to
7 p.m. Fourth Monday. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Facilitated by the Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services clinical staff. Hosted by The Estuary in collaboration with the Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Registration is not required. For info, visit events.hchlibrary.org.
Guilford Job Network Meeting:
7 to 8:30 p.m. Second and fourth Wednesdays. Via Zoom. Includes guest speaker. All job seekers are welcome. For info or to register (required), call 203-457-0121 or email RussAllen2@aol.com.
12:30 p.m. Mondays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Bring your own instruments. No registration required. For info, call 203245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Guitar Club: iPhone Photography Collaborative:
6:30 p.m. First Monday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. All levels are welcome. No registration required. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Noon to 3 p.m. Second Sunday. Myrcene Ale Co., 39 Ragged Rock Rd., Old Saybrook. No cost to join but must bring a jigsaw puzzle to swap. Co-hosted with Old Tyme Toys. For info, visit oldsaybrookchamber.com.
Jigsaw Puzzle Meet Up and Swap: La Leche Virtual Meetings:
7 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. Saturdays. Via Facebook. Sponsored by La Leche League of Connecticut. For info, visit facebook.com/groups/LLLofCTDiscussionForum.
Lego Club
: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. For info, contact the library at 860526-0018 or library@chesterct.org.
Lego STEM Club:
5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Second or fourth Tuesday. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children in grades 1 through 4. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Letter Writing Social:
1 to 5 p.m. First Friday. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Writing implements, stationery, postcards, and stamps available. No registration. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Love2Sign with Jaye:
10:45 a.m. Thursdays. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children ages 6 months to 6 years. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Madison Movie Chat:
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. First and third Mondays. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Theater Hank Williams: Lost Highway:
Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. Runs through April 27. For info, call 860-7677318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.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
A Captivating Colonial
This captivating Colonial in the heart of North Guilford is 2,800 square feet, located on a 1.9-acre lot. This residence is being built on one of the seven parcels
The main floor offers an open-concept kitchen and great room, perfect for entertaining the family. The formal dining room and office are located on the
attached bathroom that includes a soaking tub and walk-in shower.
The laundry room is located on the second floor, along with the two additional bedrooms and a second full bath.
There is a bonus room on the second floor, which is perfect for multi-purpose use. There is also a walk-up unfinished attic and a full walk-out basement.
This home is being offered for sale by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices for $930,000. For more information or a showing, contact Matty Murchison at 203-7395650.
This captivating colonial in the heart of North Guilford is 2,800 sq ft, located on a 1.9-acre lot. This residence is being built on one of the seven parcels of the Mountain View subdivision on Jans Way.
Staff Report
The main floor offers an open-concept kitchen and great room, perfect for entertaining the family.
The main floor offers an open-concept kitchen and great room, perfect for entertaining the family. The formal dining room and office are located on the first floor with one half bath.
DEEP RIVER
: Cynthia Sullivan to Steven D. Crabtree, $642,000 on March 21
OLD SAYBROOK
73 Ayers Point Road
: Edward R.
Warley to Robert S. Springer and Maria G. Luis, $625,000 on March 21
35 Owaneco Trail
: Teresa R. Curry to Thomas R. and Janet A. Sponzo, $515,000 on March 17
WESTBROOK
1 Docs Hill Road
: Fred Caffarelli to Dennis and Maureen Briand, $692,350 on March 17
931 Old Clinton Road Unit 8
:
Barbara Aaron and Jeffrey A. Nese to Timothy G. Gregoire and Candace Obrien, $549,000 on March 18
159 Old Horse Hill Road
: Rose C.
Hosking to Kevin Obrien and Rachel Cyr, $180,000 on March 17
9 Falls River Circle
: Kevin P. Moran to Jonathan Lowe and Yeou H. Yu, $349,999 on March 18
Salt Island Road Unit 128
: Noreen
A. Leopardi to Jeffrey M. Scheinblum and Maureen C. Mcguire, $193,888 on March 17
CLINTON
18 Fox Hill Drive
: Rachel U.
Manemeit to Karl Herman, $465,000 on March 21
5 Indian Drive
: Pierre M. and Penelope Hill to Darren and Laureen Eller, $620,000 on March 17
: Lucas
Mainiero to Ellen J. St Pierre, $560,000 on March 17
GUILFORD
1 Partridge Lane 23 Plymouth Court
: Recreational Mktg Assoc I to Ana M. Ambuludi, $430,000 on March 20
: Estate of Edward C. Armour Jr and Elizabeth Deyoung to Clinton Town Of, $208,000 on March 21
MADISON
33 Beaver Pond Road
: Alexandre
Demetrio to Jenna and Christopher A. Maloney, $940,000 on March 18
961 Boston Post Road
: Estate of
Sheila F. Sullivan and Kevin Sullivan to Sean J. Sullivan and Kathleen Frawley, $510,000 on March 19
25 Fence Creek Drive
: Kathryn L. and Anthony R. Tutino to Alexandre Demetrio RET and Alexandre Demetrio, $2,000,000 on March 20
436 Opening Hill Road
: Stephen and Jennifer Sebetic to Gaston Carreno, $348,000 on March 20
: Scott and Donna Tosta to Luke and Kimberly Zaleski, $550,000 on March 21
: Kelly Roberts and Citizens Bank Na to Zayd Construction LLC, $333,000 on March 19
: Karen A. Owen to Williwaw LLC, $965,000 on March 21
: Stephen W. and Elizabeth A. Page to Amanda Uscilla and Brandon Cain, $564,900 on March 17
Wauwinet Court Unit 19
: Erica G. Rivera to Loren J. Jacobson, $202,500 on March 20
62 Lords Lane
Rick
JOEL LUCAS, REALTOR®
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Arlene Mingione, RN Medical Oncology
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