Valley Courier 04-24-25

Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXV Iss. 17

Railroad Crossing Project to Temporarily Close Route 153

fic—including vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians—for approximately 72 hours.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will begin work on a railroad crossing safety improvement project on Route 153 (Plains Road) in Essex from Monday, April 28, through Wednesday, April 30. During this time, the roadway near the rail crossing will be closed to all traf-

A posted detour will guide motorists around the construction site using Route 154 and Westbrook Road (SR 604) through Centerbrook. All homes and businesses along Route 153 will remain accessible.

The existing rail crossings will be replaced with new materials to improve safety and

ensure a smoother surface for vehicles. The work is being carried out by the Valley Railroad Company, operator of the line, and is partially funded through a CTDOT grant.

“To ensure the safety of workers and the public, vehicles cannot travel through the area,” said Benjamin Limmer, Bureau Chief

See Railroad Crossing page 5

Daffodil

Daydream

Four-year-old Cassidy and twoyear-old Ezra fish for sunfish with their dad, Tucker Kerner, on Sunset Pond amidst the local daffodils on April 17. The Sunset Pond daffodils are part of a campaign in which the Essex Foundation has planted over 35,000 daffodil bulbs to support the town's beautification program.

The Valley girls’ lacrosse team has a strong and motivated roster ready to build on the progress made last spring...........................14

Press Release from the Connecticut Department of Transportation

PhotobyLauraMatesky/ ValleyCourier

Jeff Moore: Strike Up the Band

By Rita Christopher

Courier Senior Correspondent

Jeff Moore: Strike Up the Band

Not many people can remember whom they sat next to in high school band rehearsals, but Jeff Moore can. That’s because he married her. Hilarie Clark played the French horn, and Jeff the tenor saxophone. Now, Jeff and Hilarie Clark Moore are about to celebrate their 40th anniversary.

Jeff, who lives in Chester, is still playing in a band, the Old Lyme Town Band, which will give its 50th Anniversary Concert on April 26 at 7 p.m. at Old Lyme High School. The concert is free and open to the public.

Jeff, however, is no longer playing the saxophone. For the last year, Hillarie, a musician, composer, and conductor, has been giving him trumpet lessons.

“I thought about what I really wanted to do and I realized I wanted to learn to play the trum-

Person of the Week

pet,” Jeff says. “I realized if I ever wanted to do it, I had to do it now.”.

The Old Lyme Town Band concert program, along with band classics, show tunes, and marches, will feature a suite composed especially for the occasion by Connecticut composer

Anthony Susi, inspired by three paintings in the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme. The band, now under the direction of Richard Chiappetta, had its beginnings in 1975, looking toward the bicentennial activity for the 200th birthday of the United States in 1976.

The first concert was in Clinton

on August 6, 1975, with a concert in Old Lyme the following day.

Michelle Smith Dickey, who still plays with the band, recalled there had been a turn-of-the-century town band in Old Lyme and started the process of recreating it. And for Dickey, it remains a family activity: her daughter and son-in-law play in the band, and her husband is the group’s master of ceremonies.

Jeff has a family history with the band as well. His father, Wallace Moore, once a first selectman in Old Lyme, played the sousaphone with the group. (The sousaphone is a distinctively shaped tuba that can be carried over the shoulder for marching.) Hilarie, too, once played with the band.

“Playing in the band is such a gift,” Jeff says. “I enjoy the music; I enjoy the people. It is a

Essex, 35 Plains Road, 860-767-2573 • Essex, 9 Main Street, 860-767-8238

203 Middlesex Avenue, 860-526-0000 • Madison, 99 Durham Road, 203-318-8611

Lyme, 101 Halls Road, 860-434-1646 • Old Saybrook, 155 Main Street, 860-388-3543 Toll-Free 877-377-3922 • essexsavings.com

See Jeff Moore page 8

Photo by Rita Christopher/Valley Courier

Jeff Moore, who lives in Chester, is still playing in a band, the Old Lyme Town Band, which will give its 50th Anniversary Concert on April 26.

FORBES’ BEST-IN-STATE WEALTH ADVISORS 2025

LEADING THE WAY IN WEALTH MANAGEMENT,

FINANCIAL ANNOUNCES THAT FIVE OF THEIR

ADVISORS WERE NAMED TO THE FORBES 2025 BEST-IN-STATE LIST

Tim Furgueson, Michael LaRiviere, Kevin Nolan, Bill Tait, and James Sullivan have all been selected for the list, which honors top performing wealth management and financial planning advisors in each state.

This is the fifth consecutive year that Tim Furgueson has been included on this prestigious list, the third year for both Michael LaRiviere and Kevin Nolan, and the second year of recognition for both Bill Tait and James Sullivan.

“All of us at Essex Financial are extremely proud of this prestigious recognition from Forbes for Kevin, Tim, Mike, James and Bill,” said Charles R. Cumello, Jr., President & CEO of Essex Financial.

“We take immense pride in the talent and integrity of our team, and this recognition highlights the extraordinary efforts of these outstanding advisors. Their success is a reflection of the collaborative spirit and high standards that define our entire organization. We are so proud of their accomplishments and the positive impact they make every day on our clients’ lives.”

Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Data as of 6/30/24. “Source: Forbes.com (April 8, 2025).” Forbes America’s Top Wealth Advisors and Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual, and telephone due diligence meetings to measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.

Ups and Downs

The Valley softball and boys’ lacrosse teams both split the week last week

The Midway Mark

Living SportS

The spring sports are approach ing the midway point of the campaign - check out this week’s upcoming schedules

Schoolie Striper Time

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

TIM FURGUESON

MIKE LARIVIERE

KEVIN NOLAN

JAMES SULLIVAN

BILL TAIT

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DOUGLAS MECHANICAL SERVICES

• 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

• …and so much more!

Deep River Cares Fund

at the Community Foundation of Middlesex County

• Deep River Elementary School’s after school enrichment programs.

• Deep River Public Library’s immersive chess program for all ages.

• A Little Compassion & The Nest’s New Employment Skills Training (N.E.S.T.) program.

POP UP GRANTS WERE PROVIDED TO:

• Deep River Land Conservation Trust

• Deep River Public Library

• Tri-Town Youth Service

at the WE CONGRATULATE OUR FIRST YEAR RECIPIENTS

Thank you to our Friends & Neighbors for believing in & supporting our passion of giving financial hugs to the community!

STOP BY & SAY HELLO

• Opening Day of Deep River Farmers Market - June 21st

• Deep River Family Day September 20th

at the

• Stay tune for more to come on our Winter Music Series Feb. 2026

To Learn more, donate or apply for a grant!

SCAN HERE

Editor

Railroad Crossing Project to Temporarily Close Route 153

We must continue to come together as a community to support our town and our schools. I urge you to participate in this important budget referendum. Vote “Yes” on April 16.

Continued from page 1

of Public Transportation at CTDOT. “We thank the Town of Essex for its continued support in minimizing community impacts during this short-term construction project.”

to the support for the Town of Guilford Budget and encourage the same. I believe our have created a budget that residents. to 3,500 meals from Meals served at the Community miles of town transportation errands, and trips to the services are vital to many of us. than an opportunity for economical, nutritious hot meal; it with others. Other social special lunches with entertainmagicians, speakers, and also several evening dinner popular May “Senior Prom” movie. Family Services requests continue to support the critical agency. continue to be among the best score high on the State standardized tests. They in addition to the arts proposed education budget for additional funding for athletics as support for students’ social a continued commitment communities for teachers from instructional coaches to schools. budget continues to provide environments where and socially thrive.

A public pre-construction meeting will be held Wednesday, April 23, at 10:30 a.m. in the Valley Railroad’s rear parking lot, just off Plains Road south of the track

Little Learners at the Library

Suzanne Carlson Guilford

crossings. Officials will review detour details and communication plans.

Extend the Same Welcome Mat

The project is a coordinated effort between CTDOT, the Town of Essex, local emergency services, transit providers, and Valley Railroad. In the event of extreme weather, schedules may change.

Guilford’s Hometown Newspaper

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

Founded in 1998

Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2024 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2025 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

For more information, contact the CTDOT Customer Care Center at 860594-2560 or email DOT.Customer Care@ct.gov.

Essex Library continues its series of Little Learners story times with stories, songs, rhymes, and crafts around a designated theme. Children enjoy story time at 10 a.m. on Fridays with a theme of gardens April 25. On Friday, May 2, Little Learners story time takes place at 11 a.m. with a theme of trains. The program is best for children ages 2 to 5 to learn early literacy concepts of colors, shapes, opposites, the alphabet, and more. Little Learners story times take place at the library, 33 West Avenue. For more information or to register, contact the library at 860-767-1560 or staff.essexlib@gmail.com, or visit youressexlibrary.org.

ESSEX TOWN MEETINGS

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:

Thursday, April 24

Tuesday, April 29

Board of Finance Budget Workshop

Thursday, May 1

Perhaps you’ve noticed that many of our local churches provide regular meeting space for both Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous programs. I would bet these meetings even take place in our towns on a weekly basis. There is a good chance that some of them are located near daycare centers, residential neighborhoods, and schools. They provide much-needed space for people to achieve sobriety through fellowship and the ongoing support of an understanding community. They have been doing so in Connecticut for well over 75 years without complaint. Addiction takes many forms, including a dependency on opiates. Addictions are non-discriminatory. They affect the rich and poor, old and young, suburban and urban residents. Guilford is not immune from the very real health crisis that comes with opiate addiction. Why then brand a methadone clinic with the prejudice of fear? Choosing to maintain sobriety should be encouraged with appropriate and effective treatment. Why not extend the same welcome mat to a methadone clinic that we have extended to other groups confronting the devastation of addiction? A methadone clinic in our town would serve the very people who we call our relatives, neighbors, and friends. They deserve our support so they can continue to do the hard, heroic work of staying sober.

Harbor Management Commission Board of Finance Budget Public Hearing

: 6:30 p.m. : 7 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29

Centerbrook Cemetery Association Annual Meeting

: 5 p.m. For info, email centerbrookcemetery@gmail.com.

Thursday, May 1

Region #4 Board of Education

: 6 p.m. Visit www.reg4.k12.ct.us for login details.

Saturday, April 6

DEEP RIVER TOWN MEETINGS

Meetings

clerk at 203-453-8001 or visit website at www.guilfordct. participate in the following

Thursday, April 24

Commission: 7:30 p.m.

: 6 p.m. Visit www.reg4.k12.ct.us for login details. : 6 p.m.

Kate Summerlin Guilford

CHESTER TOWN MEETINGS

Legacy Theatre Spring 2024 Classes registrations for its classes for spring 2024. Classes are offered for participants ranging in age from abilities in acting and the performance arts. Classes offered are Wheel Life Theatre Troupe, Toddler sessions), Musical Theatre Performance (middle school and high school sessions), Creating Your Own Technical Theatre, Adult Improv, and more. Classes may take place at any of the following Branford locaThimble Islands Road; Legacy Theatre Rehearsal Studio, 28 School Street; Joseph Trapasso Community Branford High School, 185 East Main Street. Space may be limited. For more information on each class legacytheatrect.org/classes.

Monday, April 28

Region #4 Board of Education Firehouse Building Committee Retirement Board

Tuesday, April 29

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:

: 5 p.m. : 7 p.m.

Thursday, May 1

Inland Wetlands Commission Walk Meeting: 7:30 a.m.

Monday, April 8

Public Hearing for 2024-’25 Draft Budget

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: : 7 p.m.

Conservation Commission Region #4 Board of Education

: 5:30 p.m. : 6 p.m. Visit www.reg4.k12.ct.us for login details.

Marina Commission: 7 p.m.

Wednesday, April 10

Inland Wetlands Commission: 7 p.m.

Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commission Quarterly Conservation Matters Only Meeting : 7 p.m.

Shell sh Commission: 7:30 p.m.

Chris Piccirillo Deputy Editor

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor

Laura Carpenter Harbor News Ext. 6140

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Christopher Dobbins Prepress Coordinator & Multimedia Designer

John Lecardo Sports Reporter

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Chris Piccirillo Digital Editor

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Laura Carpenter Harbor News Ext. 6140

Louvenia Brandt Associate Publisher & Regional Sales Director Ext. 6142 Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

David A. Ellis Classifieds Manager Ext. 6130

Lisa Martin

Christopher Dobbins Prepress Coordinator & Multimedia Designer

John Hyzak Guilford Courier Ext. 6168

Eric O’Connell Harbor News John Lecardo Sports Reporter

Maria Caulfield Associate Editor

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Jennifer Corthell Senior Graphic Designer/ Special Sections

Gabrielle Hurlbut Sports Editor

Pam Johnson Senior Staff Writer

Aaron Rubin Valley Courier

Jim Schiavone Regional Digital Advertising Manager

6114

Pem McNerney Living Section Editor

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Multimedia Sales

Editorial Staff

Gabrielle Maljanian Sports Editor

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent Kristen Lennon

Jennifer Corthell Senior Graphic Designer/

Pam Johnson Senior Staff Writer

Eric O’Connell Harbor News

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

James Mitchell Director of Sales Ext. 4247

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Editorial Staff

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Obituaries

Obituary Margot Calder Chester

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Margot Calder, 82, of Chester, who died on March 26, 2025.

Margot was born in Sheffield, a small coal mining village in northern England, the daughter of a country doctor. She inherited her humanitarian spirit and lifelong commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities from her father, whose dedication to service was a guiding influence throughout her life.

A graduate of Queen Margaret College at the University of Edinburgh, Margot traveled the world, living in South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Brazil before eventually settling in the United States.

In London, she met the love of her life and soulmate, Richard Calder, a native of New Zealand, on a blind date—the beginning of a passionate and enduring love story. The couple lived in Brazil for two years before moving to the U.S. to raise their two daughters, Caitlin and Fenna. Richard predeceased Margot in 2015.

Margot began her career as a speechlanguage pathologist and served as a dedicated fundraiser for a local musical theatre group. These early efforts laid the groundwork for what would become her life’s work: co-founding the Brazilian American Youth Cultural Exchange (BRAYCE) with Richard in 2005. Over the past 20 years, BRAYCE has provided leadership training and life skills to at-risk youth from Brazil, bringing

more than 40 young people to Connecticut and forever changing their lives. The Calder legacy lives on in each of them.

Margot and her family built a joyful, spirited life in Chester, where they were active members of the community. Their home was a lively hub filled with music—especially bossa nova—fresh flowers, homegrown vegetables, and a rotating menagerie that included sheep, hens, cats, dogs, and the occasional mouse. Margot was known for her colorful dinner parties, which often ended with dancing and late-night charades. She adored her sprawling garden, was an enthusiastic member of the Herb Society, and sang in the choir at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Essex. Her signature style—pearls, lipstick, and vibrant elegance—matched her wit, warmth, and joie de vivre. Margot entered every room with grace and left it brighter.

She is survived by her devoted daughters, Caitlin (José) and Fenna (Merritt); and her beloved grandchildren, Nicolas, Isabel, and Hugh. She also leaves behind her cherished stepchildren, Rachel (Dan) and Toby (Gislene), and their children: Jack, Milo, Tilly, Arthur, and Hugo. Margot will be mourned by extended family in the U.K. and Brazil, and by many dear friends across the globe.

There are no words to describe the magnitude of our loss.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 3, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Essex. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Margot’s memory to BRAYCE at brayce.org/donate.

The Fountain Hill Cemetery announces the start of the Save the Frog Pond project. Decades of sediment in the pond have created a poor environment for wildlife. Winthrop Construction has been awarded the contract to clean out the sediment. The goal is to restore the pound to its 1929  beauty and function. The pond serves as a habitat for wildlife, a water source for the Deep River Fire Department, and an educational resource for area school children. Fountain Hill Cemetery welcomes donations to fund the project. Donations can be made online at fountainhillcemetery.com or by mailing a check to Fountain Hill Cemetery Preservation Society, P.O. Box 263, Deep River, CT 06417. For more information, call Dave Blifford at 860-918-1346

Donations Welcome for Save the Frog Pond

LEGAL NOTICE

DEEP RIVER

WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY

Applications Open for AAUW Education Grant

By Christian Maldonado

Staff Writer

Women living in Middlesex and New London counties who are pursuing a college degree may be eligible for a $5,000 education grant from the Lower Connecticut Valley branch of the American Association of University Women. Applications are due by June 9.

The program, which began during the 2010–11 school year, is open to women working toward associate’s or bachelor’s degrees at accredited colleges and universities. Applicants must be at least 20 years old by Dec. 31, 2025. According to branch treasurer Nancy Fairchild, grants are awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, and personal goals.

“There have been a wide range of majors, such as nursing, social work, speech pathology, etc. Many different colleges have been represented in the past,” Fairchild said.

Past recipients have attended schools both in Connecticut and out of state, including St. John’s University in New York, Bryant University in Rhode Island, and Howard University in Washington, D.C.

“The grants help fulfill the mission statement of AAUW,” Fairchild said. “We want to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.”

Grant awards will be announced in July. For more information or to apply, visit https://lowerctvalley-ct.aauw.net or contact Nancy Fairchild at 860-339-5765.

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF CHESTER 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

notice is hereby given to all owners whose properties are along the following streets: Bridge St, Burcam

Elm

Lafayette

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

Legal notice is hereby given to all users liable to pay a usage fee to the Chester Water Pollution Control Authority that the second installment of the usage fee for the period October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025 is hereby due and payable on April 1, 2025. Failure to make payment on or before May 1, 2025 will result in an interest charge of one and one half percent (1.5%) per month from the due date of April 1, 2025 with a minimum charge of $2.00 per bill.

Payments may be made online (fees apply), at the Office of the Tax Collector, Chester Town Hall, 203 Middlesex Avenue, Chester or mailed to: Tax Collector, PO Box 314, Chester, CT 06412. Checks should be made payable to Town of Chester.

Office hours: Monday through Thursday 9-12 and 1-4. Closed Fridays.

Emily J. Vetter-Haupt Tax Collector 860-526-0013 Ext. 513 taxcollector@chesterct.org

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ESSEX PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Planning and Zoning Commission will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Essex Town Hall 29 West Avenue Essex, CT (see agenda on Town’s website www.essexct.gov for further details), at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following application:

- PZC #25-1 Text Amendment under Section 123 of the Essex Zoning Regulations to modify 40X Fast Food Restaurants and 40Y Drive-Through Access. Applicant: 125 Bokum Center, LLC

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.

Essex Planning and Zoning Commission Russell Smith, Chairman

via: Association for American University Women

Jeff Moore: Strike Up the Band

“Oahu, 180 degrees away from Switzerland,” he says.

Warner, who started the Chester ferry in 1769.

wonderful group.”

Band members come from communities along the shoreline as well as other parts of the state. One trombone player who recently moved to Monroe is still driving an hour on Monday nights to practice with the band.

Jeff says music was always a part of his life growing up. His father played the piano, the banjo as well as the tuba and sousaphone. Wally Moore, who was born in Chester, played with many groups besides the Old Lyme Town Band, even performing regularly at the Griswold Inn with a piano player.

“I don’t think he ever had lessons. He just had an affinity for it,” Jeff says. “He loved big band music. I always heard music around the house.”

Jeff himself got bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, as well as a master’s degree in business administration. His professional life has been spent in engineering, working with power plants and power generation. He has lived in Switzerland and in Hawaii, each for some two years in job postings.

Hillarie found the property where they now live online. Once the couple saw it, Jeff says they knew they wanted to buy it. It was land but no structure.

The focal point of the house they built is Hillarie’s large music room, where she gives individual lessons as well as conducting ensembles. She also leads two local orchestras, the Cheshire Symphony and the Southeastern Connecticut Community Orchestra (SECCO) in Waterford. Jeff got to play with the Waterford group once, “a small part for a third trumpet”, he says.

Jeff is still working for the same firm he has been with for over 20 years but on a reduced schedule. He plans to be completely retired by the end of 2025.

He will not lack for things to do. He has a trove of family papers and wants to organize the material and possibly scan much of it to make it easily available for future generations. “I have old family pictures, Bibles, deeds, letters,” he says.

Eight generations of Jeff’s family have lived in Chester. His father was born in town. An early ancestor was Jonathan

Unlike many people who put travel at the head of their retirement plans, that is not on Jeff’s list. In fact, he has no desire to travel in retirement. He explains that he has traveled for business for many years.

“I’m looking forward to staying home,” he says.

He is also planning on doing more music.

“I certainly haven’t mastered the trumpet yet. I really have a lot to learn,” he says, “but I’m not giving up. It’s really fun to be with the band.”

Jeff knows what it takes to get better. “As soon as you leave,” he says to a visitor, “I’m going upstairs to practice.”

Solarize Returns to Power a Brighter Future

With spring in full bloom and the sun climbing ever-higher in the sky, our days are getting longer, and we are, thankfully, experiencing more sunlight in our waking hours. Thank goodness for spring! This season of renewal is an ideal time to embrace the extraordinary power of the sun and all of its lasting benefits.

Sustainable Essex is excited to announce the launch of a program which is designed to help lower the price of electric bills by making rooftop solar more affordable and accessible to homeowners.

“Thank you to Sustainable Essex for their work in moving another solarize campaign forward!” said Norm Needleman, first selectman of the Town of Essex. “Their efforts continue to make a meaningful impact on our community and environment.”

“Solarize campaigns are one of the most-effective ways to drive solar energy adoption in a community,” said Sustainable Essex co-chair Lindsay Tomsheck.

“By simplifying the installation process and leveraging group buying power, these programs lower upfront costs, which increases participation. We’ve

Deadline Nearing for Scholarship Honoring Longtime Visiting Nurses Leader

By Christian Maldonado

Staff Writer

The Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley will award a $5,000 nursing scholarship this spring to a local student from Chester, Deep River, or Essex.

Named for longtime board member Judith McCann Heiser, the scholarship honors her decades of service to the organization and the community.

“Judy’s life was about serving and being part of her community,” said VNLV board member Sarah Foley. “She joined the Board of the Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley in Centerbrook soon after arriving in town and remained an active and committed leader for almost 50 years. She was devoted to the scholarship program.”

The scholarship is open to high school graduates, community college students, and graduate students pursuing a degree in nursing. Selection is based on academic achievement, an interview, a short essay, and demonstrated motivation. Extracurricular activities and volunteer service are also considered.

“We plan to award at least one scholarship,” Foley said. “Five thousand dollars is the total being awarded.”

Students must reside in Chester, Deep River, Essex, Old Saybrook, Old Lyme, or East Lyme to be eligible. One or more scholarships will be awarded, and applications are due by Friday, April 25.

Forms can be picked up at the Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley office at 61 Main Street, Suite 5, in Centerbrook between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, or requested by emailing Susan Maxwell at smaxwell@visitingnurses.org.

Founded more than a century ago, the Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley is a nonprofit, Medicare- and Medicaid-certified home health care organization serving shoreline and Lower Valley towns. The agency is known for its personalized in-home care and community health programs. Its mission is to foster health, independence, dignity, and comfort through home-based services and healthoriented outreach initiatives.

Via: Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley

A Prince Among Cats

Story by Carol Andrecs

Prince is so thankful to be inside, feeling safe and loved after having spent his entire life outdoors on his own. This young and energetic, brownish gray and white tabby with golden eyes is a purr machine once you start petting him. He has lots of energy, whether he’s playing with other cats or is alone with his toys.

Is your castle in need of a Prince? Come meet this very adorable boy at our open house or apply to adopt him online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

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.

Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. Call the volunteer line at 860-669-1347 or send an email to volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.

Photo courtesy of Genevieve Ray

Solarize Returns to Power a Brighter Future

Continued from page 10

it builds trust and excitement,” Tomsheck added. “These programs also have a strong education element and are about empowering communities with the tools, knowledge, and financial incentives needed to transition to renewable energy.”

The first solarize campaign in the United States originated in Portland, Oregon in 2009. Solarize Portland was so successful that its model—group purchasing, community education, and a vetted solar installer—became the blueprint and inspiration for hundreds of similar initiative across the country, including the one which Sustainable Essex organized back in 2014.

“We ran a highly successful solarize campaign 11 years ago, and we’re eager to recreate that momentum here in 2025,” said longtime Sustainable Essex member Stacy Abbott.

“Prior to the 2014 program, there were eight homes with solar in Essex with a generation capacity of 44 kilowatts. After the program, this increased to 30 homes with a quadrupled capacity of 202 kilowatts,” Sustainable Essex veteran Frank Hall added. “We’re really excited to see what we can accomplish this time around, especially with an expanded campaign footprint that includes the towns of Chester and Deep River!”

With electricity rates up nearly 40% over the past decade, Connecticut has some of the highest energy costs in the country. The process of going solar helps protect homeowners from rising costs and offers long-term savings and predictable bills. Through this campaign, most systems pay for themselves in five to seven years and will deliver over 3.5 times the initial investment in lifetime savings.

“Going solar has allowed us to invest in a more-sustainable future,” said recent solar customer and Essex resident Deb Herskowitz. “We’ll be able to save a significant amount of money on ever-increasing energy bills. We hope more people will choose solar energy this year and help protect our planet. Our only regret—not doing this sooner!”

Sustainable Essex has vetted and is

partnering with solar installation company Earthlight Technologies to bring Solarize Essex & Friends to life. Earthlight was founded in Ellington in 2008 and has earned multiple, consecutive awards from the Connecticut Green Bank for their outstanding work in the field. Their reputation is built on quality installation and trustworthy, transparent sales practices. Their strong commitment to customer satisfaction makes them an ideal partner for this community-driven campaign.

“As more people participate in this solarize campaign, the collective impact grows,” said Kalyn d’Occhio, Sustainable Essex co-chair. “This is a chance for our community to take meaningful, local action against climate change. And it also very much about stabilizing energy costs by lowering or even eliminating our electric bills!”

Join Sustainable Essex and Earthlight Technologies in the Essex Town Hall auditorium on Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. for a ‘Solar 101’ style presentation and workshop. At this event, solar experts will break down the basics of solar energy, explain how Solarize Essex & Friends works, and answer any questions about installation, financing, and available incentives. This is an opportunity to learn how solar can save you tens of thousands of dollars on your energy bills, while also contributing to a more-sustainable community.

In the meantime, to find out more about the program, visit sustainableessex.com/ solar, contact Tomsheck at lindsay. tomsheck@gmail.com, or sign up for a nocost, no-obligation home solar evaluation at bit.ly/EssexSolar (case sensitive). In order to qualify for the group discount, residents must sign up during the campaign period of April 22 to June 30.

Solarize Essex & Friends is building on the 2024 community outreach efforts focused on weatherization and energy efficiency for homes. A Home Energy Solutions energy assessment can help lower your electricity bills and may even reduce the size of the solar system needed to power your home. Visit sustainable essex.com/energywise or call 203-292-8088 to sign up.

Valley Girls’ Lacrosse Looks to Net Postseason Berths in 2025

By Jenn McCulloch

The Valley Regional girls’ lacrosse team saw some progress in the 2024 campaign, and Head Coach Alex Rose is looking for the Warriors to continue that momentum this year. Despite losing a key player to graduation and having several others who moved out of the school district, Rose sees great potential in his team.

“I’m excited to continue building on the foundation we laid last year — while our performance last season wasn’t exactly what we hoped for, we made valuable progress, and this year, we’re ready to take it to the next level,” said Rose. “We have a great group of girls who are really coming together as a team, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness. We have endured some tough personnel losses in the offseason,

but we remain united•as a team and keep pushing forward every day.”

Rose is in his second season as head coach and is assisted by John Iacobellis, who has proven to be an “invaluable asset” to both Rose and the Warriors. Rose noted that Iacobellis brings experience, knowledge, and commitment.

“His support has been essential in helping me navigate the challenges of coaching; whether it’s offering strategic insights, stepping in to motivate the players, or providing guidance in critical moments, Coach I is always there with a calm, steady presence,” said Rose. “His commitment to the team and his passion for the game make him a key figure in our success, and I’m incredibly grateful for his partnership and the positive impact he has on our program.”

In addition to the coaching staff, the

team will be led by a quartet of senior captains: Lucy Resnisky, Grace Lunz, Lilly Bragdon, and Grace Matute-Isman. Resnisky returns to the goal after stepping into the position just last season. Lunz, a midfielder, is known for her “powerful shots and relentless defense,” as well as her ability to control the draw circle. Bragdon anchors the Warriors’ defensive line, while Matute-Isman plays attack.

“Lucy’s leadership and growth have been vital to our team’s success, and we’re excited to see how she continues to develop in goal. Her progress over the last year has been a testament to her hard work and dedication, and she’s ready to take her game, and our team, to the next level this season. Her clears, shot stopping ability, and communication on defense are extremely valuable to our team,” said Rose. “Grace is a force to be reckoned with

on the field who consistently challenges opponents and dominates in key moments. Grace’s work ethic and versatility make her an invaluable player, contributing both offensively and defensively with every game. Lilly is a rock on our defensive line, bringing toughness, leadership, and a relentless work ethic to the field — beyond her skills, Lilly’s positive attitude and work ethic are contagious, bringing energy and determination to the field every day, inspiring her teammates to give their best. Grace is the epitome of a team player. Even when she’s not on the field, her passion and care for the team shine through. She’s always encouraging her teammates, offering support, and helping in any way she can. Grace’s commitment to the team goes beyond her

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier

Kayleigh Cornett is expected to be a key contributor for the Valley girls' lacrosse team this spring, hoping to contribute in many different ways.

Lucy Resnisky shows strong leadership skills as a captain and goaltender for the Valley girls' lacrosse team this spring.

Special to The Courier

Schoolie Stripers are on the Move

While schoolie striped bass are being schooled by fishers, both fishermen and fish are getting a little more educated. For a short amount of time, these fish will go after the same lure time and time again and then shut down. Imprint of that lure finally sinks in, and then the bite suddenly stops. That is the down side. The up side is their memory is short lived, and, with a little patience, one can resume fishing - usually with experiencing the previous results.

Changing locations or tying on a different lure can spark the bite again. If tying on a different lure, try to find one with a similar action, a shade or two off-color, and one with a comparable profile. If that does not re-activate the bite, then go with one totally dissimilar - or maybe add a colored bead or two. Try a sandworm or herring scent to spice things up. Beads can also send a signal to their lateral line while scent fires up their sensitive olfactory system.

Always keep one thing in mind. There is a reason we refer to young striped bass as schoolies. They group or school together. So, unlike working a larger, lone striped bass, when casting to a school in the midst of a bite, one is actually placing a lure in front of several fish. In that case, maneuver the lure in such a way as to cover a wider area, presenting the lure to numerous fish instead of only one. When using either a lipped or lipless lure, experiment with adjusting the eye so as to cause the lure to move more to one side than the other upon retrieving. Being creative can

sometimes be the difference of hooking up or not.

Schoolie season is primed. Holdover fish and those migrating up the coast are on the move and need food to compensate for the energy spent migrating. They are fresh and hungry. It is now up to you to take advantage of the bite.

On The Water

A cold front moved east of our waters as a series of weak surface troughs moved across. High pressure gradually began to build in, taking short control of the area. A frontal system then approached impacting the sector just before high pressure returned, leaving an opening for another frontal system to slip into the region. Air temperatures waivered from the low 50s into the high 60s as days saw a mix of clouds, sun, rain, and patches of fog. Long Island Sound water temperatures fluctuated between 44-48 degrees as seas responded to multiple small craft advisories, wind, and patches of dense early morning fog.

In spite of cold starts, rain, and wind, trout anglers had multiple opportunities to catch eye-opening breeders. Colors were absolutely spectacular and the fights on light gear exceptional. Those who know the shop have already learned that what we say will happen happens. Newcomers have not learned that yet, so a disbeliever or believer in fish sto-

ries usually will be converted if time permits a quick photo op. Periodically, though, it will be evident, as fish are either being weighed or photographed.

Quality trout are being caught causing ear-to-ear grins to be more common than uncommon these days. Time of day, barometric pressure trends, and water conditions all play a part in fishing results. These elements have a direct effect on feeding - which leads us to forage. This season has seen wide swings of trout preferences, as feeding patterns have changed inconsistently, and at times, quickly. Natural, scented and artificial baits are running the gamut from day-today - sometimes hour-to-hour. One thing is very noticeable: when these breeders are on something, they do not readily change over, but do become cautious and extremely evasive. In most instances, the lighter the setup, the better.

It is time to switch gears for a moment to the young anglers. True, some of those trout caught may not be eye-openers, but to these young-ins, the thrill is unmistakable. To them, whether it was a trout, small bass, sunfish, or something else, they are delighted. It is an adventure that will be remembered for decades, and more importantly, they will recall the event almost verbatim. taking a kid fishing is the first step in making a true angler! Largemouth bass are into prespawn mode. They are hungry, protective, and very feisty. Attacking hard/soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and natural baits, such as worms and live shiners, are

seemingly irresistible. Expect the fight to be one of testing and skill. Lakes and rivers will have quality bucketmouths, but one cannot rule out the local neighborhood pond. For some of the best action, gear up for and fish smallie territory to experience a rod-jolting topwater hit. White perch remain good, yellow’s plentiful, and large sunfish are taking worms. Catfish and carp are being caught, along with aggressive pickerel, a few pike, and a few salmon. Try tossing out shad darts or willow leafs for American shad in the CT River.

School is in session, and schoolie striped bass are schooling while being schooled themselves. Crank out the eightweights and light spinning gear for some really good early springtime action. Within the last two weeks, linesiders threw off their winter cobwebs and responded to their innermost desire for food. Around our local waters, it is slightly early for consistent cow bass, but fish within and below the slot of 28 to 31” have been taking natural baits, soft plastics, small jigs, and swimmers. With the wind to one’s back, casting an intermediate fly line with a sinking fly can produce some fastpaced action during either a flooding or ebbing tide. Winter flounder catches were hit or miss, while blackfish (tautog) went from iffy to catch as catch can (mostly small) again this week.

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.

First striped bass to kick off the season, Chris Brockett of Clinton hooked this 29-incher on a paddletail swim bait that was destined for a family dinner - one of a few that will be served this year.

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 at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call ahead for spring 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 captainmorganfish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa

Photo courtesy of Captain Morgan

Boys’ Lacrosse, Softball Split the Week

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Boys’ Lacrosse

The Valley boys’ lacrosse team hosted Old Lyme on April 15 and won 19-7. Goals were scored by Gavin Ortola (five), Drew Delouchry (four), Kai Cokas (four), and Cameron Costanzo (two). Gavin Shkutzko, JP Hayes, Kellen Graham, and Mason Fearon each added a score. Michael Leylo recorded five saves on 12 shots on goal. On April 17, the Warriors traveled to North Branford and lost 7-5. Alan Rivera and Cameron Atkinson scored two goals each, and Dylan Smith scored one. Atkinson, Daniel Charbonnier, and Rigo Chirino each recorded an assist.

Wr a ps WARRIORS

Softball

Valley softball hosted Old SaybrookWestbrook on April 17 and won 12-0. Nataly Pavon-Avila, Paige Williams, and Carley Spearrin each drove in two runs. Megan Dugan also added an RBI. Williams pitched six innings and gave up three hits and no runs. She also recorded eight strikeouts.

The next day, the Warriors traveled to Old Lyme and took a 5-3 loss.

Schedules

Boys’ Tennis

Friday, April 25: at East Hampton at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 28: vs. Cromwell at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 30: vs. Westbrook at 5:15 p.m.

Thursday, May 1: vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m.

Monday, April 28: at Coginchaug at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29: at Somers at 4 p.m.

Thursday, May 1: at East Hampton at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 28: vs. Hale Ray at 3:15 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29: at Wheeler, Lyman Memorial at 3 p.m.

Thursday, May 1: at Haddam-Killingworth at 3 p.m.

Friday, April 25: vs. East Hampton at 3:45 p.m.

Monday, April 28: at Cromwell at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 30: at Westbrook at 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 1: at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m.

Girls’ Tennis Baseball

Friday, April 25: vs. Hale Ray at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 28: at Coginchaug at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29: at Parish Hill at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 30: vs. Old Saybrook at 4 p.m.

Thursday, May 1: at East Hampton at 4 p.m.

Softball

Friday, April 25: vs. Hale Ray at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29: at East Hampton w/ Old Saybrook at 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 26: vs. Ellington at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 1: at Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Lacrosse

Tuesday, April 29: vs. New London at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 1: vs. Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Valley Girls’ Lacrosse Looks to Net Postseason Berths in 2025

Continued from page 14

individual performance—she truly wants the best for everyone, and her positive attitude and leadership make a lasting impact, no matter her role in the game.”

In addition to Valley’s captains, Rose is expecting big contributions from several players, who should make an impact across the field. In particular, Rose will be looking to Macy Rock, Kayleigh Cornett, Nia Marchese, Avi Santangelo, Karlee Cutler, Annie Keck, and Addie Guzzalis as crucial pieces to the team’s success this season.

As a squad, the Warriors’ biggest goals are to qualify for both the Shoreline Conference Tournament and state tournament. With those goals in mind, key matchups will include contests against North Branford, Morgan, Old Saybrook, and Haddam-Killingworth.

“Our out-of-conference games will also play a major role in our overall success, as every matchup is an opportunity to grow and show what we’re capable of,” said Rose. “For our seniors, we want to extend their season as long as possible and give them a memorable end to their high school careers. Every game matters, and we’re focused on making the most of this opportunity.”

Valley started the season strong with wins against Morgan (11-10) and Cromwell (10-6). Rose is looking for his defensive line, which he considers “the backbone” of the team to remain strong while Valley works to build an effective offense.

“With the leadership of our captains and the hard work of the entire defensive unit, we’re confident we can build a foundation that will support us throughout the season,” said Rose. “While we have the talent and the potential to create scoring opportunities, we need to refine our offensive strategies, improve communication, and ensure we can convert those opportunities into goals. It’s about building chemistry and maintaining offensive pressure throughout each game. We are all excited to continue growing as a team this year, and every player and•coach is committed to taking things one game, one practice, and one rep at a time. We know that success doesn’t happen overnight, but through consistent effort and a focus on improvement every day, we’re building something special. Our goal is to keep progressing together, learning from each experience, and working toward becoming the best team we can be.”

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier

Drew Delouchry (19) scored four goals in Valley boys' lacrosse's recent 19-7 win vs. Old Lyme.

Boys’ Lacrosse

Girls’

Position Summary:

Eastern Connecticut’s leading multimedia company is

HIRING NOW

— SPORTS REPORTER (SHORELINE EDITORIAL) —

The Sports Reporter is responsible for reporting on various sports across the Connecticut shoreline community newspapers. This position requires attending key games and events as needed to deliver engaging and insightful stories that capture the spirit of local athletes and teams. The ideal candidate will excel at conducting interviews with coaches and players, gathering compelling quotes and statistics to enrich coverage. Responsibilities include tracking regular and post-season results and contributing weekly bylined articles.

Essential Duties:

1. Cover a variety of community and high school sports across the Connecticut shoreline community newspapers, attending key games and events as needed.

2. Write engaging and well-researched stories that highlight the achievements of athletes, teams, and coaches.

3. Conduct interviews with coaches, athletes, and other relevant sources to gather compelling quotes and accurate statistics.

4. Track and maintain regular season and postseason results for covered teams.

5. Develop and pitch creative and timely story ideas that extend beyond game recaps.

6. Contribute to weekly roundups, providing summaries and insights on notable performances and outcomes.

7. Maintain a strong presence within the community, fostering relationships with athletes, coaches, and families.

8. Adhere to journalistic standards by ensuring accuracy, fairness, and professionalism in all reporting.

9. Collaborate with the sports editors to refine content and meet publication deadlines.

10. Stay informed about trends and developments in high school sports to enhance coverage and story ideas.

Other Duties: Performs other duties as assigned.

Confidentiality: Maintains confidentiality of all records and information.

Conduct: Always Represents The Day and Shore Publishing Company in a professional and courteous manner.

Dependability: Regularly attend and are punctual for work.

Supervision Received: Reports to Sports Editor.

Supervision Exercised: None.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

- Ability to think strategically.

- A deep understanding of editorial best practices and style guidelines.

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

- Proficient with text management and desktop publishing software.

- Proficient computer and software skills (i.e. Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Presteligence (Content Management Software).

- Highly motivated, self-starting individual with initiative and drive to succeed.

Send, fax or e-mail qualifications and salary requirements to: The Day Publishing Company • Human Resources Department • 47 Eugene O’Neill Drive, P.O. Box 1231 • New London, CT 06320 r.magyar@theday.com

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. M/F/D/V

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!

In Search of the Best Slice

By Eric O’Connell

Staff Writer

Grab a couple pies and cast your vote—time is running out! Only one week remains to help crown Connecticut’s best slice in the Pizza Capital Trail contest, and nearly 50 shoreline spots are in the running.

It’s a question that can inspire heated debates and stir strong passions: Who has the best pizza in Connecticut? Now, the state is asking residents to help settle the debate.

In March, Governor Ned Lamont announced that the Connecticut Office of Statewide Marketing and Tourism created a contest to find the top 100 independent pizza restaurants in the state. The winners will be added to the Pizza Capital Trail, which will “serve as a guide for visitors and pizza enthusiasts on where they can get some of the best pizza in the country,” a press release stated.

PizzaCapitalTrail.com features more than 900 restaurants eligible for voting. Eleven local favorites made the list.

To cast a ballot, voters can visit PizzaCapitalTrail.com and select up to 10 pizzerias from the list or submit a write-in vote for a different spot. Voting ends May 1, and the Pizza Capital Trail will be announced in September, just ahead of

National Pizza Month, the release said. To be eligible, restaurants must have a permanent brick-and-mortar location, according to contest rules. Additionally, “every independent pizzeria counts as one restaurant regardless of how many locations that business may have. So, whether a pizzeria has one location or four, it will be represented as one single entity in the voting and rankings. This ensures that every vote reflects quality, tradition, and taste, rather than just a footprint,” the rules state.

Final rankings will be determined through a combination of the public vote and a panel of food critics and influencers. Here are the local restaurants included list:

Benny J’s

Big John’s New Haven Pizza

Branford Pizza

Brother’s Deli & Pizzeria

Capone’s Pizza Bar

Da Carmine’s

Genaro’s Pizza Restaurant

Honeyspot Pizza

Jon’s Pizza Venture

Lomonaco’s Ristorante Italiano

Marco Pizzeria

Branford

Photo courtesy of Otto Pizza

Photo courtesy of Grand Apizza

Otto Pizza in Chester features wood-fired pizzas and is the only Chester pizzeria listed on the CT Pizza Trail.

With locations in Clinton, Guilford, and Madison, Grand Apizza is one of nearly 50 pizza shops listed on the CT Pizza Trail.

Photo courtesy of Marco Pizzeria

Branford's Marco Pizzeria is one of 13 Branford pizzerias listed on the CT Pizza Trail.

Calendar for the Week of April 24, 2025

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

THURSDAY, APRIL

24

Business After Hours and Sneak Peak Performance

5:30 to 7 p.m. Madison Lyric Stage, Deacon John Grave House, Rear lawn, 581 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Includes drinks, appetizers, and a sneak peek performance of Madison Lyric Stage’s preview of . Sponsored by the Madison Chamber of Commerce. For info or to register, contact the Madison Chamber at 203245–7394 or chamber@madisonct.com.

A Memory of Truth?

Incredible Journeys: Spring Bird Migration in Connecticut

Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

Concert by Ticket to Ride (Tribute to The Beatles)

:

7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

FRIDAY,

APRIL 25

The Adult Disability Community in Connecticut: Advocacy, Resources, and Legislation

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, 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.

The Choristers Perform

: 5:30 p.m. First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, 5 Lyme St. Presented by TheGuild of Salt Marsh Opera. Hors d'oeuvres, wine, beer, and seltzer will be served. For info or to RSVP, email info@saltmarshopera.org.

Author Event: John Himmelman

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by Joe Attwater, conservation and education coordinator for the Connecticut Audubon Society. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. :

: 10 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Lynn Arezzini, a political advocate for the disabled and the chair of the Southern DDS Regional Advisory Committee; Karl Arezzini, a 34-year-old adult with autism who is also a fine cellist and singer; and Heather LaTorra, president and CEO of Marrakech, a New Haven-based program that supports people with disabilities. 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.

The Thrill of Writing Action, Adventure, and Suspense: A Conversation with Author Gregg Hurwitz

7 p.m. Online event. Book: series. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.

The Thrill of Writing Action, Adventure, and Suspense: A Conversation with Author Gregg Hurwitz

Orphan X Orphan X

7 p.m. Online event. Book: series. Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library

New York, New York: Frank Stella, William de Kooning, Helen Frankenhaler, and Jasper Johns

: 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.

In Search of the Best Slice

Continued from page 25

Pacileo’s Apizza & Pasta

Stony Creek Market

Bella Maria Pizzeria

Grand Apizza Palmeri’s NY Style

DeLuca’s

Discovering Amphibians: Frogs, and Salamanders of the Northeast

: 6 to 7 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Book: . Best for adults, but older children with an interest in the topic are welcome to join. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

History Happy Hour: Invasive Plants: Colonial Times to Today

: 6 to 7 p.m. Allis-Bushnell House, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Sponsored by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Features a talk by Heather Crawford, chair of Madison’s Conservation Commission. Admission: $10 members, $15 nonmembers. Includes beverages from The Wine Thief of Madison and hors d’oeuvres. For info or to register, call 203-245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org.

See page 27

Paint & Clay Club Celebrates 125 Years of Artistic Legacy

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

A new exhibition at the New Haven Museum honors one of the state’s oldest arts organizations with

Enduring Creativity: Celebrating 125 Years of the New Haven Paint & Clay Club

. The show features more than 50 works from the club’s permanent collection and will be on view through June 28, 2025.

Founded in 1900 by local artists seeking exhibition opportunities and arts advocacy, the New Haven Paint & Clay Club has played a pivotal role in New Haven’s cultural landscape for over a cen-

Continued from page 26

tury. From its earliest days, the club was progressive for its time, welcoming women as full members and exhibitors.

The group’s first exhibition took place above a printer’s shop on Pitkin Alley in December 1900. Over the years, the club has held exhibitions at notable venues including the New Haven Free Public Library and the John Slade Ely House, where it remained for over 50 years.

The club began building its permanent collection in 1928 and today holds nearly 400 works. The collection reflects a broad diversity of styles, media and artistic voices from throughout the region.

: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Café, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Admission: $5 donation at the door. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 25 AND

SATURDAY, APRIL 26

: 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.

Curated by artist Greg Shea, a past president of the club and current curator of the collection, the exhibition is presented in collaboration with Jason Bischoff-Wurstle, director of photo archives at the New Haven Museum.

“As an artist member and curator of the Paint & Clay Club’s permanent collection, I’m proud to be part of a long-standing tradition of artistic excellence in New Haven,” said Shea. “This exhibition reflects the depth of talent and enduring importance of the club to regional and national art history.”

The New Haven Paint & Clay Club is

FRIDAY, APRIL 25 THROUGH

SUNDAY, APRIL 27

2025 Connecticut Spring Boat Show

: Friday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Safe Harbor Essex Island, 11 Ferry St. Open to the public. Showcases some of the latest innovations in boating, sailing, and fishing. Cost: $20 per adult, includes access for all three days; free admission for children ages 13 and under. Half of the proceeds benefits Sails Up 4 Cancer. Free parking. For tickets, visit ctspringboatshow.com. For info, contact 203-644-7798 or info@ctspringboatshow.com.

the oldest continuously operating arts organization in Connecticut and one of the oldest in New England. The club continues to support regional artists through exhibitions, awards, scholarships and educational programming.

The New Haven Museum, located at 114 Whitney Ave., is open to the public and offers free admission year-round to active-duty military personnel and their families through the Blue Star Museums program. For more information, visit newhavenmuseum.org or call 203-5624183.

SATURDAY, APRIL 26

Earth Day Beach and Park Cleanup

: 9 to 11 a.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison. Volunteers help clean up debris from Hammonasset Beach State Park. For info, call 203-245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.

Beginner Yoga Class:

9:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Second in a two-part beginner yoga series. Presented by yoga instructor Lana Beluge. Bring a yoga mat. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

Summer Landscape is among more than 50 works featured in Enduring Creativity, celebrating the 125th anniversary of the New Haven Paint & Clay Club. Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

Autumn Hydrangeas is on view in the exhibition Enduring Creativity at the New Haven Museum. Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

Teen Open Mic

Concert by John Oates

Continued from page 27

Four-Way Test Speech Contest Finals

: 9 a.m. to noon. Old Saybrook High School, 1111 Boston Post Rd. Hosted by the Old Saybrook Rotary. Features a concert by Rotary Peace Fellow and cellist Diego Carneiro, a presentation by District Peace Committee Co-chair John Waller, and a panel discussion with the speech contest finalists. For info, call Joan Winters at 860-861-8811 or visit osrotary.org.

Beginner Yoga Class

: 9:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Second in a two-part beginner yoga series. Presented by yoga instructor Lana Beluge. Bring a yoga mat. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Paper Shredding Event

: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Madison Chamber of Commerce, 12 School St. Cost: $10 for a standard box of papers. Discounts apply for three or more boxes. For info, contact the chamber at 203-245-7394 or chamber@madisonct.com, or visit madisonct.com.

35th Anniversary Celebration

: 10 a.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a book drive to benefit Read to Grow, free ice cream, and instore specials. For info, call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Saturday Sleuths Book Club

: 10 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: by Frieda McFadden. Snacks will be provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-2457365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Met in HD Live:

: 1 p.m. Madison Cinemas, 761 Boston Post Rd. Running time: 235 minutes with an intermission. Shoreline Opera Club will lead a 30minute talk-back after the broadcast. For info or tickets, call 203-245-2456 or visit madisoncinemas2.com.

Introducing: Clinton's New Poet Laureate

: 1 to 3 p.m.

Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features a meet-and-greet event with Clinton Poet Laureate Bethany Howard. For info, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Family Day

: 1 to 5 p.m. Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center, 100 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features live music by Sunny Train, science experiments, nature building, games, crafts, and plein air painting along the river. Food available for purchase. Admission: $10 per family. For info or to register, ctaudubon.org/rtp-programs-events.

A Turkish Coffee Tasting

: 2 to 3 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Attendees will learn the cultural significance of Turkish coffee and enjoy samples of the beverage, along with Turkish tea and other refreshments. Presented by representatives of the Peace Islands Institute, an international organization that promotes cross-cultural conversations and friendship. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Bestseller Book Club

Le Nozze di Figaro Dream Count

RiverQuest

Osprey/Eagle Cruise

: Departs 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. from Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Cost: $50. Service fees apply. For info or tickets, visit ctrivermuseum.org/waterfront.

SUNDAY, APRIL 27

16th Annual Madison Touch a Truck

: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Madison Surf Club, 87 Surf Club Rd. Presented by the Madison Newcomers Club. Features several large trucks for families to explore, food trucks, live music, local youth performers, and more. Free shuttle bus to and from the Madison commuter lot on Route 79 off Exit 61. Limited parking at the Surf Club. Free admission but suggested donations are $5 per person or $20 per family. Proceeds benefit the Madison Newcomers Scholarship Fund for graduating Daniel Hand High School students and the Madison Youth and Family Services. For info, visit madisonnewcomersct.com/touch-a-truck.

The Carnival of the Animals

: 2 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Doors open 1:30 p.m. Performed by Orchestra New England, under the direction of James Sinclair; narrated by Ivoryton Playhouse Executive Director Jacqueline Hubbard. Free but tickets are required. For audience members of all ages. Sponsored by a friend of the Essex Winter Series (EWS). For info, visit www.essexwinterseries.com.

Concert by Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives

Old Saybrook Environmental Fair

: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Online event. Book: by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. For info or to register, visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Chicken and Rib BBQ Fundraiser

: 4 to 6 p.m. Deep River Congregational Church, 1 Church St. Tickets: $20 per person, $10 seniors ages 60 and over. Tickets available at Deep River Hardware Co., 2 Elm St. Hosted by the Deep River-Chester Lions Club. Proceeds benefit local Lions charities. For info, visit e-clubhouse.org/sites/deepriver.

: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Patrons may purchase a VIP package that includes a private pre-show event featuring a two-song performance along with a Q&A storytelling session at 5 p.m. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

MONDAY, APRIL 28

Shoreline Opera Club Discussion of the Met in HD Live Broadcast:

Le Nozze di Figaro

Earth Day with the Old Saybrook Garden Club

: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Old Saybrook Middle School Gym, 60 Sheffield St. Features speakers, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities to raise awareness and promote action on environmental issues. Free admission. Open to all. For info, call Lynette Wacker at 860-395-3131 :

10:30 to 12:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features face painting, birdhouse craft, nature scavenger hunt, games, and more. Free and open to all. No registration needed. For info, call 860395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Chester Earth Day

: Noon to 4 p.m. Main Street, Chester. Features live music, guest speakers, an art exchange, farm tour, a film festival, hiking, e-cycling, a town cleanup, and more. For info or to RSVP, visit chesterearthday.com.

Kids' Percussion Day

: 12:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features an interactive program for children of all ages to explore the percussion family of instruments. Led by local musician Gary “Coach” Ribchinsky. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Met in HD Live: The Housemaid Le Nozze di Figaro

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 235 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Sweet Saturday Nights: Gene Parise with Kyle Rathbun

: 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.

SATURDAY, APRIL 26 AND SUNDAY, APRIL 27

Day Out with Thomas: The Party Tour

: Departure every 45 minutes from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.. Essex Train Station, 1 Railroad Ave. Features a train ride with a life-sized Thomas the Tank Engine (ride is approximately 25 minutes), live entertainment, photo ops with Sir Topham Hatt, lawn games, and shopping at the pop-up gift shop. Rain or shine. Tickets: $30.50 general admission. Children under age 1 are admitted free but must sit on the lap of a parent or guardian. Service fees apply. Ticket sales are final. For info or reservations, call 860-767-0103 or visit essexsteamtrain.com/experiences.

TUESDAY, APRIL 29

Exploring Nature Adventures

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Open to all. For info, email MetOperaMadison@gmail.com. : 2:45 to 5 p.m. Bushy Hill Camp, 253 Bushy Hill Rd., Ivoryton. For grades 5 and 6. Part of an after-school outdoor program series. After school is let out, students will walk to Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St. Student pickup will be at OSYFS at 5 p.m. Cost: $35. Space is limited. Hosted by OSYFS and Bushy Hill Day Camp. Last date: Tuesday, May 6. For info or to register, visit the link for after-school clubs OSMS/half-day trips at osyfs.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.

Live Owls to Visit Pardee-Morris House

Press Release from Pardee-Morris House

Owl rehabilitator and educator Gwen Rice, co-founder of Freedom First Wildlife Rehab, will present “Owls Among Us” at the historic Pardee-Morris House on Sunday, June 1, at 2 p.m. The program marks the site’s 2025 season opening and will feature two live owl “ambassadors.” Admission is free; registration is available online.

Rice will introduce visitors to the eight species of owls native to Connecticut, explain their ecological role as natural pest controllers, and offer advice on how residents can help protect them. Topics will include the dangers of rodenticides and other human-caused threats to owl survival. Only one in four owlets survives

their first year in the wild, Rice notes, making education and conservation critical.

“We encourage citizens to become good stewards of the environment by avoiding poison, installing owl houses, and supporting conservation,” she said.

Rice, a former occupational therapist, turned her rehabilitation skills toward raptors in 2016. She trained under Bird of Prey Rehabilitator Rodney Paul at the Raptor Center of Central Arkansas and spent five years earning federal and state permits to work with owls. She and her husband, Rich, now operate Freedom First Wildlife Rehab out of their Connecticut home.

Photo courtesy of Pardee-Morris House

Ljiljana Plisi

Gioioso-Datta FACOG Craig Sauer

Ravski

Casper

Susan Richman

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of April 24 - April 30

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, there’s a secret that you have been holding on to and you are ready to let it go. It won’t weigh you down anymore and you can finally focus fully on the future instead of the past.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, certain ground is tough for people to travel, but you have conviction and grit to get things done. You have a history of thriving when faced with adversity, and that’s an asset.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, keep an eye open for a challenge. When you are given an opportunity that will require for fullest and best effort, embrace it as an opportunity to fulfill your potential.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, keeping things pleasant and lighthearted is a talent of yours, but this week you might need to take a new approach. Work with others and listen to suggestions.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you often are the life of the party, always ready to find something to do and be with other people. This week you might need to slow down and enjoy some alone time.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you could be especially energized this week and feel the need to get as much done as possible. Try not to race through tasks without focusing on doing things right.

APRIL 24

Kelly Clarkson, Singer (43)

APRIL 25

Jonathan Bailey, Actor (37)

APRIL 26

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

The news that comes your way isn’t what you had hoped, Libra. Roll with the punches and embrace the challenge. Soon there will be blue skies again and everything will settle.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you will meet up with someone you haven’t seen in a while and it will be like no time has passed whatsoever. Be prepared for a coincidental situation to bring you together.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

The universe will put you in touch with someone who is reputable and diligent, Sagittarius. This way you can both tackle what you need to get done reap the rewards of your hard work.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, a little competition never hurt anyone. Embrace an upcoming chance to see how you stack up. Give your best effort, as always.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

This is a good week to play things safe and keep your cards close to the vest, Aquarius. Consider each situation carefully before engaging.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you are a sociable person and ready and willing to chat up others. This week you might not be up for any social interaction and prefer a few days of solitary time spent.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 28

Jay Leno, TV Host (75) APRIL 29

Jerry Seinfeld, Comic (71) APRIL 30

Melania Trump, First Lady (55)

APRIL 27

Lizzo, Rapper (37)

Gal Gadot, Actress (40)

CLUES ACROSS

1. English TV station

4. It fuels cars

7. Where ships dock (abbr.)

10. Indigenous people of Thailand

11. Midway between northeast and east

12. Small Milky Way constellation

13. Fritz __, Austrian chemist

15. A Brit’s grandmother

16. Colombian city

19. Visualize

21. Charged

23. People’s assets

24. Informative books

25. Jeer

26. You can do it with your horn

27. Agents of your downfall

30. Central Uganda city

34. Supervises flying

35. Type of tree

36. Alfalfa

41. Dishwasher soap brand

45. Hall where military eats

46. Ancient Greek City

47. Speaks incessantly

50. Discuss again

54. Extreme greed

55. Adopt or support

56. Fantasy writer Russell

57. Seize

59. Early Mesoamerican civilization

60. Noted pet detective Ventura

61. Automobile

62. Georgia rockers

63. Color opposite green

64. Amount of time

65. Attempt

CLUES DOWN

1. Sheep sound

2. Some can be emotional

3. Inflammation of colon lining

4. Origins

5. Comedienne Gasteyer

6. Perceived by the senses

7. A place to play ball

8. Occur before

9. Animal body parts

13. Thanksgiving dessert

14. Root mean square (abbr.)

17. 1960s teen idol Bobby

18. Promotional materials

20. One point east of northeast

22. Piers Anthony protagonist

27. Popular sports league

28. Cologne

29. Partner to cheese

31. Constrictor snake

32. Not good

33. Supplement with difficulty

37. Hug with fondness

38. Enforced again

39. Small amount of time (abbr.)

40. Substance

41. Anterior parts of the brain

42. Brews

43. Where ships load cargo

44. Holiday season singer

47. “__ humbug!”

48. Monetary unit of Macao

49. Popular children’s book elephant

51. Glutinous

52. Function

53. Old world, new

58. Swiss river

Word Search

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

SPRING HAS SPRUNG WORD SEARCH

APRIL AWAKENING BLOOMS BREEZE BUDDING BUNNY CHIRPING EGGS FLOWERS GARDEN GREEN GROWS INSECTS NEST POLLEN REBIRTH SAPLING SHOWERS SPRING SUNNY SUNSHINE TREES

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for April 17, 2025: FICTION

Word Search solution for April 17, 2025

GAC Exhibit Celebrates Art and Earth

The newest exhibition at Guilford Art Center, Dear Mother, honors the human connection to the natural world through a wide range of artistic media and practices. The exhibition explores our most ancient relationships with nature through one of our most fundamental human behaviors: artmaking.

Dear Mother will be on view rom Friday, May 2, through Sunday, June 1, and will feature more than 100 works by local artists. Media include painting, photography, drawing, ceramics, woodworking, fiber, woodcut, mixed media and encaustic.

A free, public opening reception will be held Sunday, May 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Guilford Art Center gallery.

The gallery is open seven days a week and free to enter. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The Shop, featuring handcrafted work by hundreds of artists, is also open during these hours.

Guilford Art Center is located at 411 Church Street, Guilford. For more information, visit www.guilfordartcenter.org or call 203-453-5947.

, photograph by Kathy Frederick Ashes , woodcut by Helen Cantrell

Signs of an Unknown Land , felted Merino wool by Cathy Lovell Raven's Reward

Press Release from the Guilford Art Center , oil on canvas/collage by Sue Rollins Before/After Dunes

NMCC Hosts Pollinator-Themed Plant Sale

Pollinators play a vital role in the health of our environment, from supporting local ecosystems to helping produce much of the food we eat. That’s why North Madison Congregational Church is focusing on pollinator-friendly plants and education at this year’s Goodness Grows Plant Sale, to be held Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The annual sale will feature a wide variety of locally sourced perennial plants, annuals, shrubs and herbs ideal for creating pollinator pathways—green corridors that support bees, butterflies and other pollinators. These pathways can be as small as a window box or as expansive as a backyard garden or meadow.

Attendees can meet with Heather Crawford, Chair of the Madison Conservation Commission, who will be on-site to answer questions about native plantings and sustainable landscaping practices.

Crawford and members of NMCC’s expert gardening team will offer guidance on selecting plants and building beautiful, environmentally friendly gardens.

In addition to plants, shoppers can browse the popular Garden Tools and Goods Tent, filled with gently used tools, pots, hoses and other garden treasures. There will also be a puzzle table, a bake sale with fresh pastries and treats, and live music throughout the event. The sale will take place on the grounds of North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Road, just south of the Route 80/Route 79 circle. Parking is available in the upper lot across from the North Madison Firehouse on Opening Hill Road. The event will be held rain or shine.

For more information, visit www.northmadisoncc.org/goodness grows, email office@northmadisoncc.org or call 203-421-3241.

Photo courtesy of NMCC

Shoppers browse perennials and herbs during last year’s plant sale, which supports sustainable gardening and local pollinator pathways.

Press Release from North Madison Congregational Church

Photo courtesy of NMCC

Shoppers check out gently used garden tools and accessories at the Goodness Grows Plant Sale at North Madison Congregational Church.

Oddfellows Playhouse to Celebrate 50 Years of Youth Theater

Oddfellows Playhouse Youth Theater, Connecticut’s oldest youth theater, will celebrate its 50th birthday the weekend of July 4 with a three-day celebration at its Middletown headquarters. The festivities will honor five decades of supporting young people’s well-being through the performing arts.

Alumni, families, former staff, teaching artists and volunteers will gather July 5 to 6 for tours, performances, reenactments, improvisation, games, a group photo, and the premiere of a new documen-

tary about the Playhouse’s history. A giant birthday cake and an evening open mic cabaret, followed by dancing, will cap off Saturday’s events. A special Sunday morning gathering will celebrate the organization’s earliest years and founding story.

Founded in 1975 by Wesleyan University students, Oddfellows Playhouse has become a cornerstone of the Middletown arts community. Each year, the Playhouse engages about 1,500 young people through programs in theater, circus, dance, music and visual arts. Its professional teaching staff focuses on delivering high-quality, imaginative productions while fostering personal growth and inclusion.

Signature programs include the Children’s Circus of Middletown, the Teen Repertory Company, and Neighborhood Troupes, which bring free arts programming to children living in public housing. Oddfellows’ three-pronged mission focuses on artistic excellence, youth education, and social change, with a particular emphasis on serving underserved and at-risk youth.

The celebration is open to the public. Events will take place at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington St., and throughout downtown Middletown.

For more information, visit www.oddfellows.org, call 860-347-6143, or email info@oddfellows.org.

Photo by William DeKine

Photo by William DeKine

Press Release from Oddfellows Playhouse Youth Theater

Photo by William DeKine

Photo by William DeKine

Photo by William DeKine

Real estate

An Elegant European-Style home in the Heart of Madison

Staff Report

An Elegant European-Style home in the Heart of Madison

A perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and convenience awaits in this remarkable home, over 4,700 square feet and ideally located just steps from the Madison Town Green, downtown shops, and stunning beaches.

This five-bedroom home offers a host of exceptional features. Step through the front door into a dramatic twostory great room with an open floor plan bathed in natural light. The newly updated kitchen, fresh and inviting, seamlessly connects to the great room, creating the perfect hub for gatherings. The home has been recently painted and features stunning white maple floors throughout.

Each of the five spacious bedrooms boasts its own private bath. The home’s luxurious amenities include a breathtaking Gunite in-ground pool and hot tub. Enclosed for year-round enjoyment, the pool area transforms effortlessly for the summer months with doors that open onto a grand stone patio.

The left wing of the house features a beautifully remodeled one-bedroom apartment, ideal for in-laws, an au pair, guests, or a rental income. A newly renovated study and office space with custom cabinetry and a gas fireplace provide an ideal work-from-home setup.

Outdoors, the private backyard is a true sanctuary, featuring a spacious stone patio, wood-burning fireplace, and a built-in pizza oven—perfect for entertaining family and friends. The lower level adds over 1,000 square feet of bonus living space, including a newly remodeled media room, play area, and fully equipped gym.

This home is being offered for sale by Kate Jasko, Coldwell Banker Realty, for $2,300,000. For more information or a showing, contact Kate Jasko at 860-3049034.

584 Boston Post Road, Madison Year Built: Sq. Feet: Acres: Style: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Price:

Valley Courier 2007 5,795 0.93 Colonial, European 5 6 full $2,300,000

A perfect blend of luxury, privacy and convenience awaits in this remarkable home.

Step through the front door into a dramatic two-story great room with an open floor plan, bathed in natural light.

Enclosed for year-round enjoyment, the pool area transforms effortlessly for the summer months with doors that open onto a grand stone patio.

9 Water Street

: High End Chester LLC to 9 Water Street LLC, $395,000 on April 2

Cedar Lake Road

: Matto Lt and Christopher Matto to Erik Anderson and Joshua Brown, $50,000 on April 4

CHESTER DEEP RIVER ESSEX

: Estate of Robert H. Ingram and Kerry E. Knobelsdorff to Fitzgerald Road LLC, $315,000 on April 4

: James Amendola to Patricia L. Hector, $465,000 on April 3

: Russell

K. Fallo and Bryanna L. Sforza to Noah M. and Nicole Gorman, $485,000 on March 31

: Saybrook Offshore LLC to Oyster River Indus Bldg L, $400,000 on April 3

: John J

Annunziata T and John J. Annunziata to Lloyd N. Friedman and Kai Yang, $952,000 on April 2

: Paul M. and Kim M. Seegert to Veronica P. Cranny, $710,000 on April 4

: Sarah

Peirson and Steven Rauccio to Daniel G. and Kathleen R. Fisher, $625,000 on April 1

: Anthony Esposito to Enty Candelario, $664,562 on April 2

: Noreen Rowe to Df Builders LLC, $51,000 on April 2

: Noreen Rowe to Df Builders LLC, $51,000 on April 2

KILLINGWORTH

9 Dogwood Knoll Road

: Marilyn

Gordon RET and Julie Tillotson to John N. Salerni and Nicole V. Iovanne, $477,000 on March 31

201 River Road

: Lane C. Thornbury to Sheila and Silvio Sitarich, $625,000 on April 2

MADISON

21 Centre Village Drive Unit 21

:

Justine B. Rutan to Kathryn L. Hunter, $525,000 on April 1

174 Concord Drive

: Christine

Prestash to And Management LLC, $26,609 on April 2

71 Oak Avenue

: Dominick

Dagostino to Nicholas Racanelli, $2,462,500 on April 4

GUILFORD

70 Cedar Hill Road

: Magnum Prop Group LLC to Scott Nichols, $405,000 on April 1

8 Cornfield Lane

: John J. May to Michele G. and Charlotte R. Montesi, $535,000 on April 1

22 Granite Road Unit 22

: Laurie J.

Davis to Jean and Jacqueline Cipollini, $145,000 on April 1

22 Granite Road Unit 22

: Not On

My Dime Lt and Deborah A. Laskowski to Jean and Jacqueline Cipollini, $145,000 on April 1

1051 Hoop Pole Road

: Debra A. and Robert J. Doorack to South & K Taylor T and Scott D. Taylor, $615,000 on April 3

Moose Hill Road

: Carrie L. Walker to Guilford Land Conservatio, $635,000 on April 4

80 Seaview Terrace Unit 11

: Diane Hart to Maryanne Neary and John Ogden, $525,000 on April 1

224 Shore Drive

: Abbe Dillon Lt and Morgan Dillon to Karen E. Goodwin and Timothy A. Marshall, $535,000 on April 4

71 Trailwood Drive

: Robert Dalton and Caitlin Garzi to Jane Zumwalt, $650,000 on April 2

185 West Lane

: Estate of Gisela K. Parmelee and Janice Wingo to Beth F. and Bryan Nesteriak, $1,300,000 on March 31

BRANFORD

16 Breezy Lane

: John Carty and Emily Jackowitz to Lauren E. Roth, $535,000 on April 1

Brushy Plain Road Unit 6D

:

Fusco Midge Est and Frank Bonito to John J. Boyle, $186,000 on April 4

: Ronald P. Pera to Kathleen T. Moniello and Scott Cretella, $530,000 on April 4

: Carol

Jones to Miseo LLC, $225,000 on March 31

: Waterside

Bldg & Dev Ii L to Christine South Sansone T and Christine S. Sansone, $1,416,725 on April 2

: Estate of Pamela Esposito and Michael Esposito to Samuel Krause and Jarrett Murray, $385,000 on April 4

:

Frances East Kraekel 2023 RE and Frances E. Kraekel to Barbara H. Craig, $324,000 on April 2

: Estate of Taylor A. Mackinnel and Tiffany Mackinnel to New Gen Prop Soln LLC, $350,000 on March 31

Lirnewood

:

Estate of John E. Lynch and Polly Defrank to Keith and Sandy Robinson, $1,050,000 on April 2

: Masc99 LLC to 1171 Main Street LLC, $252,000 on April 2

: Deca Properties LLC to 944 Branford LLC, $1,175,000 on April 3

: Barbara

Butler to 157 Pine Orchard Hldg LLC, $1,220,000 on March 31

: 30 Hunting

Ridge LLC to Marc and Mary M. Pelletier, $1,950,000 on April 2

NORTH BRANFORD

: 53 Twin Lakes LLC to Big Pine Tree LLC, $622,500 on April 3

: Stacy Miller to Anthony and Teresa Yasevac, $475,000 on April 2

NORTH HAVEN

: Ocwen Lane Acqui T 2024-Hb1 and Wilmington Svgs Fund Soc to Ilaa Atluru and Daniel K. Underkofler, $563,000 on April 2 : Brigitte Bolduc to Rachel Mastracchio and Harve Solomon, $453,500 on March 31 : Estate of Mary Alice Zullo and Noella Z. Rhone to Guardian Prop Invest LLC, $335,000 on March 31

EAST HAVEN

240-A Commerce Street

: Proto Property LLC to Mavis Tire Supply LLC, $272,020 on Jan. 3

14 Crisci Place

: Janystsie and Saverio L. Annunziata to Destiny Lee, $375,000 on Dec. 27

86 Hotchkiss Road Ext

: Michael L. and Debra A. Mingione to Wilbert P. Ortega, $355,000 on Jan. 2

116 Hunt Lane

: Michelle I. and Anchit Soni to Jose A. Sanchez, $400,000 on Dec. 31

Navarro Road Unit 8

: Bonnie L.

Damico to Mabel Investments LLC, $300,000 on Dec. 31

51 Piscetelli Circle

: Gabianna Const LLC to Mohammed and Rizwana Ayub, $500,000 on Jan. 3

76 Proto Drive

: Proto Property LLC to Mavis Tire Supply LLC, $272,020 on Jan. 3

199 Short Beach Road

: Matthew S. Waggoner to Samantha Kaye, $337,000 on Jan. 2

55 Thompson Street Unit 16D

: Krisanna Viglione to Mckinley Rowe, $233,500 on Dec. 27

99 Coe Avenue 31 Dodge Avenue

: Randall and Andrew Roach to Roach Francis and Yvette H. Lewis, $450,000 on April 1 : Shannon L. Criscuolo and Johnathan J. Sullivan to Luis A. Oliver, $310,000 on March 31

40 Foxon Hill Road Unit 32

: Natatie Anthony to Jovan A. Bloise, $247,000 on April 1

8 Lombard Circle Unit 3

: Ral

North Haven LLC to Lisa M. Deming, $598,655 on April 2

Mclay Avenue

: Scott D. Yeager to Edwin and Amy Nichols, $403,500 on April 4

376 Strong Street

: Melissa R. Thibault to Christina R. and Pasquale Cicarella, $340,000 on April 3 : Luis Ortiz to Christopher Silva, $214,000 on April 1

55 Thompson Street Unit 4F

79 Vista Drive

: Freedman Re Hldg Iii LLC to Fatema A. Alhelo and Abdullah F. Zatar, $295,000 on April 2

I’m

Thank

I’m

6 Elm Street, Old Lyme $895,000

Nestled just off the prestigious Library Lane is a timeless New England gem where the charm of 1904 architecture meets thoughtful modern updates. This post-and-beam home, including the original structure and master suite, is rich with character, warmth, and history. Whether you’re a young family seeking a place to grow or looking to downsize without compromise, this home offers comfort, space, and a true sense of place. The large, updated country kitchen is the heart of the home, beautifully blending period details with modern functionality, and filled with built-ins that echo the home’s heritage.

#1 Coldwell Banker Agent in Middlesex County

With nearly $300 million in sales volume and helping almost 1000 happy buyers and sellers over 20 years on the shoreline, Joel’s experience is invaluable. Let him help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact Joel Lucas Today!

REALTOR®

Serving the CT Shoreline from Branford to Stonington for over 20 years 860.304.9150

bankerbuddy@hotmail.com COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM

LISA BERNARD EAST LYME / MYSTIC

/ OLD SAYBROOK / ESSEX

NANCY MESHAM

CHARENE CLARK EAST LYME / MYSTIC

JENNIFER JONES OLD LYME / OLD SAYBROOK / ESSEX

MARC DELISE OLD LYME / OLD SAYBROOK / ESSEX

WILLIAM JOHNSTON EAST LYME / MYSTIC LISA GOLEBIEWSKI

JOHN HUHN EAST LYME / MYSTIC

JOE RHODES

HILARY

KIMBERLY PETERSEN

LYME / OLD SAYBROOK / ESSEX

PEG MITCHEL

SAYBROOK / ESSEX

RICK

TERRY KEMPER

SHELLY CUMPSTONE

SCOTT