May 8, 2025 Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXV Iss. 19
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Town Swears In New Emergency Management Team By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer DEEP RIVER
The town has officially sworn in Cynthia Torres as its new Emergency Management Director, with assistant Courtney Huntington taking her oath of office during the Board of Selectmen meeting on April 22.
Though the role is new to Torres, she brings local government experience, having served on Deep River’s Board of Finance for the past six years. Huntington, a town resident for over a decade, expressed enthusiasm about the new role and the opportunity to support emergency preparedness in the community.
“I am very much looking forward to the new challenges that have been put in front of me,” Huntington said. “I’m just ready to get to work in this new position.” First Selectwoman Carol Doak-Jones praised both appointees. See Town Swears page 10
Making a Splash Atreus Ludwig, 13, and Gabe Fernandez, 12, jump into Chester Creek for a quick dip on April 28. Summer-like weather drew children outdoors for early seasonal recreation throughout the region.
Photo by Laura Matesky/ Valley Courier
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William Schaeffer’s photo collection is the focus of a new exhibit at The Metropolitan Museum of Art...........2
Talent to Succeed Valley boys’ outdoor track is relying on a combination of veterans and new athletes to make a deep run in the postseason.............................14
Celebrating Mothers Of motherhood, acceptance, and gratitude................................25
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MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
William Schaeffer: Picture That By Rita Christopher Courier Senior Correspondent
It is impossible to miss the publicity for the exhibit of Will Schaffer’s collection of photographs at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. A huge red banner announcing the exhibit, some 24 feet high by 25 feet wide, hangs from the front facade of the museum building. The banner will be a part of the publicity until exhibit ends in July, but will not be hung every day as there are multiple exhibits to showcase at the Met at the same time. Some 250 images from Shaeffer’s collection are on display in a show entitled The New Art; American Photography 18391910. Shoreline residents can see them on June 2, when Chester Parks and Recreation is running a bus to the exhibit. Will is going to be on the bus to tell those attending about the photographs they will see. The show highlights the various images that were made in the
Person
of the Week earliest days of photography, among them daguerreotypes, cyanotypes, cartes de visite, and three-dimensional stereoscopic images. According to Jeff L. Rosenheim, curator in charge of photographs at the Met, who organized the show, the aim was to exhibit the different kinds of photographs in relatively the same proportion as they existed in Will’s collection. The daguerreotypes are perhaps the best-known of the early photography formats. “They are shiny and challenging, sometimes hard to see, and you can look at both sides of the image. The back is as important as the front,” Will says. Cartes de visite, small cards
with a photograph the size of modern business cards, were traded and often kept in albums in the mid-19th century. Will describes the three-dimensional stereoscopic images, similar to what children can look at today with a toy like a View-Master, as the television of the 19th century. “They were how people in those days saw the world,” he says. Metropolitan Museum trustee Philip Maritz and his wife Jennifer financed the purchase of the Schaeffer photographs donated them to the museum, over 700 in all. The Met is lucky to have the trove and not simply for its historical and artistic value. The photographs escaped destruction when a pipe in Will’s Chester office burst and damaged some of his collection. Luckily, he had just moved a batch of the photographs that went to the Met from a self that was inundated. See William page 7
Photo by Rita Christopher/Valley Courier
Will Schaeffer, whose collection of 19th-century photographs is the focus of a major exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, sits in his Chester office surrounded by books and guitars. The show, The New Art: American Photography 1839–1910, runs through July 20.
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Inside Sports Kicking off the Season The Deep River Horseshoe League kicked off its season last week.....................................................15
YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL
Navigating Your Retirement Journey Life is a journey and there are many turns along your path before reaching your retirement destination. We invite you to take this opportunity to use navigational support from trusted experts on aging and learn how to fill your golden years with more “want tos” than “have tos” while still preserving your nest egg and maintaining financial freedom.
Staying Focused The Valley girls’ tennis team locked up three wins last week, and golf earned a win and a loss....................................................17 A Coach’s Dream Lyle Pitman carries himself with maturity beyond his years and serves as a strong role model on and off the track as a senior captain for Valley............................ 16
Living Romeo and Juliet at Hartford Stage Some may be disappointed.............................27 Game On NHSO welcomes video game band DiscoCactus...................36
Don’t leave your retirement to chance by relying on someone else to make decisions for you. Attend our upcoming presentation and learn how to identify the best choices for your future while still living life to the fullest.
Join us Wednesday, May 21st, at 12 p.m.
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RSVP TODAY 860-500-1614
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Welcome Home Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care
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Quote
of the week
“We want to see individual and team development throughout the season. We also set the bar high for sportsmanship and pride ourselves on our conduct both on and off the field.” - Kevin Woods ................14
Valley Courier (usps 021-267)
Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Deep River, CT 06417 Postmaster: Send address changes to Valley Courier, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320
Nature Up Close Spectrum Gallery explores the natural world in its newest exhibit..........................32
Index
Obituaries............................................ 5 Sports..................................................14 Tides....................................................17 Classifieds..........................................18 Sudoku...............................................24 Living..................................................25 Calendar.............................................26 Horoscopes.......................................30 Crossword Puzzle...........................30 Real Estate.........................................37
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MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
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The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center will host its Kate’s Camp for Kids summer day camp at 300 Main Street, Old Saybrook, from Monday, June 23, through Friday, Aug. 15. Seven one-week sessions will be offered from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for children ages 5 to 10. Each week of Kate’s camp is filled with theater, music, dance, and visual art and culminates in a performance for family and friends that unifies all of the art forms. The camp weeks will run with the following themes: Week 1, June 23 to June 27, Robots; Week 2, July 7 to July 11, Exploration: Antarctica; Week 3, July 14 to July 18, The Wild West; Week 4, July 21 to July 25, Under the Sea: Australia's Great Barrier Reef; Week 5, July 28 to Aug. 1, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles; Week 6, Aug. 4 to Aug. 8, Wilderness Adventure; and Week 7, Aug. 11 to Aug. 15, Kate's Tournament of Champions. The cost is $350 per session with a 10% discount for siblings within the same household. Campers must have completed kindergarten to be eligible. Beforeand after-camp care are available for an additional fee. Registrations are now being accepted and partial scholarships are available. For more information or to register, call 860-510-0473 or visit thekate.org.
ESSEX TOWN MEETINGS
Monday, May 12
NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-767- Transfer Station Committee: 6:30 p.m. 4340, ext. 129, or visit the Essex town Library Board of Trustees: 6:30 p.m. website www.essexct.gov to learn how to participate in the following meetings: Tuesday, May 13 Board of Finance Special Meeting: 6 p.m. Thursday, May 8 Board of Selectmen: 6:30 p.m. Conservation Commission: 4:30 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission: Plan of Wednesday, May 14 Conservation and Development Meeting: Joint Land Use Commissions: 6 p.m. 6 p.m. Parks and Recreation Commission: 7 p.m. Essex Elementary School Board of Education: 6 p.m. Visit www.reg4.k12.ct.us for details. Thursday, May 15 Deep River Elementary School Board of Education: 6 p.m. Visit www.reg4.k12.ct.us Capital Committee: 10:30 a.m. for details. Annual Budget Town Meeting: 7:30 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission: 7 p.m.
Monday, May 12
Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167
Laura Carpenter Lori Gregan Betsy Lemkin Harbor News Valley Courier The Sound Laura Carpenter David A. Ellis John Hyzak Ext. 6140 Ext. 6167 Guilford Courier Harbor News Classifieds Manager Guilford Courier Ext. 6130 Ext. 6140 Ext. 6130 Ext. 6168
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Tuesday, March 13 Retirement Board: 5 p.m. Inland Wetlands Commission: 7 p.m.
Wednesday, March 14 Tree Committee: 10 a.m. Economic Development Commission: 4 p.m. Chris Piccirillo Digital Editor
Maria Caulfield Gabrielle Maljanian Pam Johnson Pem McNerneyLiving Editor Maria CaulfieldSports Editor Gabrielle Hurlbut Senior Staff Writer Living Section Editor Associate Editor Sports Editor
Thursday, May 15
Aaron Rubin Valley Courier
Eric O’Connell Wesley Bunnell Harbor News Chief of Photography
John Lecardo John Sports Reporter Sports
Eric O’Connell Harbor News
Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier
Thursday, May 8 Planning and Zoning Commission: 7 p.m.
Board of Finance: 7 p.m.
Monday, May 12 Economic Development Commission: 4:30 p.m. NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-526-6024 Parks and Recreation Commission: or visit the Deep River town website 6:30 p.m. www.deepriverct.us to learn how to participate in the following meetings: Tuesday, May 13 Energy Team: 2 p.m. Thursday, May 8 Board of Selectmen: 6 p.m. Housing Authority: 4 p.m. Annual Town Budget Meeting Vote: 7 p.m. Deep River Sustainable CT Committee: 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 14 Conservation and Inland Wetlands Com- Citation Review Board: 7 p.m. mission: 7 p.m.
DEEP RIVER TOWN MEETINGS Alicia Gomez Rita Christopher Christian Maldonado Pam Johnson Wesley Bunnell Rita ChristopherValley Courier Specialty Publications Senior Correspondent Senior Staff Writer Chief of Photography Senior Correspondent Editor
CHESTER TOWN MEETINGS 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:
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Obituaries
Contacting Valley Courier
Obituary
Joan Devine Nolan Madison Joan Devine Nolan, born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on June 8, 1921, died peacefully of natural causes in Meriden on April 23, 2025, weeks short of her 104th birthday. She was predeceased by her parents, Grace and Robert Devine; her sister, Mary Grace Devine Marks; two brothers, William and Robert; and, in 2011, her cherished husband of 65 years, Thomas F. Nolan, MD. Joan grew up in Erie, attended Villa Maria Academy, and graduated from St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana, receiving a B.A. in home economics. After graduation from St. Mary’s, she moved to New York City and served as a dietician at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Greenwich Village, where she met the love of her life, Tom Nolan, then a surgical resident at St. Vincent’s. They were married in 1946 in San Antonio, Texas, where Tom was serving as a Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corps. They eventually settled in Erie, where Tom practiced general surgery (interestingly, at another St. Vincent’s Hospital) and Joan ran the household that included five children. Joan was the consummate homemaker, never happier than when gathering family and friends together. She said she felt very lucky that she could live out her dream! In addition to creating a warm, loving home, she also served as president of the St. Vincent’s Hospital Auxiliary, president of the St. Peter’s Cathedral Women’s Council, and was among the first Eucharistic Ministers of the Diocese of Erie. She was a longtime volunteer with Meals on Wheels, which she enjoyed doing with one of her dear friends. In retirement, Joan and Tom moved to Madison, where they lived for more than 30 years, enjoying everything that New England has to offer. As in Erie, it was their family and friends who defined their lives. After Tom’s death, Joan lived inde-
pendently for several years. She then moved to Assisted Living at The Hearth in Glastonbury, where the staff created an atmosphere that she truly enjoyed. Joan was an independent woman who gracefully adapted to the losses of family members and many friends and increasing dependency on others. Her last two and a half years were spent at Connecticut Baptist Home in Meriden, where she received extraordinary care from everyone - from the administrators, the nursing staff, the aides, the dining room staff - each and every member of the team. Joan’s entire family will be forever grateful to them. Joan treated everyone who cared for her with kindness, good humor, and consistent appreciation. An ER doctor once commented as Joan — then 100 years old — spent hours at the hospital awaiting treatment after a fall, “Everyone here is in love with your mother!” In her later years, she lived with no regrets from the past and few worries for the future - she lived fully in the present moment. She will be remembered as a woman of enthusiastic, eternal optimism and abiding faith. She had a wonderful sense of humor, encouraging practical jokes among her children, and laughing infectiously at each one. One of her last-uttered words of advice to her children was “count your blessings.” Joan is survived by her five children, Betsy Sandberg (Bill) of Essex; Tom Nolan (Barrie) of Fairview, Pennsylvania; Jodie Nolan (Jon) of Northampton, Massachusetts; Bob Nolan (Marianne) of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania; and Kate Clemens (Dave) of Glastonbury. Joan is also survived by her grandchildren, Tyler Sandberg (Dasha), Griffin Sandberg (Tori), Brendan Nolan (Meaghan), Chris Nolan (Johanna), Jesse Nolan (Tony), Emma Nolan-Thomas (Cyrus), Ian Camera (Sam), Liz Nolan, Ian Clemens, Dylan Clemens, and seven great-grandchildren. A private memorial service will be held in Erie, Pennsylvania, at a future date. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be sent to Meals on Wheels America, P.O. Box 791568, Baltimore, MD 21279, adding the memo “in Memory of Joan Nolan” or mealsonwheelsamerica.org. See Obituaries page 10
As your hometown paper, the Valley Courier welcomes reader contributions and questions. If it’s important to you, we want to know about it. Here are the best ways to bring matters to our attention. LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Valley Courier encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues. Writers may submit letters as often as every two weeks. Letters must include the writer’s full name, street address, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters submitted under pseudonyms, anonymously, or through third parties will be declined. Letters must be written by the submitter. No more than four signees are permitted per letter. Letters must be 300 words or fewer and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Letter writers may be asked to supply sources to corroborate information presented as fact in letters. Civility is required. Letters with personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined. For letters endorsing a political candidate, Shore Publishing will accept one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections to allow for candidate rebuttal. Letters must be received and verbally confirmed by 5 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Publication is subject to approval by the editor. Letter writers who knowingly violate this policy three times will be banned from submitting future letters to the editor. Letters may be submitted at www.zip06.com or email to shoreletters@shorepublishing.com. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CALENDAR To have your item considered for print, please email news@shorepublishing.com. Announcements and calendar items are printed as space allows. Deadline for submissions is Wednesday at noon, eight days before publication. These are just a few ways to get involved in your newspaper. If you have an idea for a story, a question about news deadlines, or any other news-related inquiry, email news@shorepublishing.com or call the News Department at 203-245-1877, ext. 0. OBITUARIES The Valley Courier publishes paid obituary notices in print and at Zip06.com. Obituaries should be sent to obits@theday.com. The deadline for all obituaries is Wednesday at 4 p.m., eight days prior to publication date. Obituaries will also be posted as quickly as possible at Zip06.com. ADVERTISING To speak with someone about newspaper and online advertising, contact the Sales Department at advertising@shorepublishing.com or 203-245-1877. All advertising is subject to the approval of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing shall have the right to revise, reject or cancel, in whole or in part, any advertisement at any time for any or no reason. LEGAL NOTICES To place a legal notice, email legal@theday.com or call 860-701-4410. CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad in the Classifieds section or in the Classifieds Service Directory, call 860-701-4412. CIRCULATION To speak with someone about receiving or canceling the paper, please call 203-245-1877, ext. 6510 or email shorecirculation@shorepublishing.com. Valley Courier 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 news@shorepublishing.com 203-245-1877 Fax 203-245-9773
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
William Schaeffer: Picture That Continued from page 2 Will has both loaned and sold pictures to the Met before, particularly for a 2013 Civil War exhibit. That led to talks with Met curators about acquiring much more of the collection. It took some five years of looking through the collection for curators to make their final selection. When Will started out collecting in 1974, he says very few museums had photograph collections. Now, 50 years later, most have such collections. He did not start out as a collector and dealer of rare and historic photographs. His family thought he would go into banking as his father had. “I was sort of a math genius,” he remembers. At Trinity College in Hartford, he successively changed his major from economics to psychology to art. After graduation, he tried his hand as a photographer. “I didn’t want to do weddings, families, passports,” he says. “I wanted to do the nitty-gritty of real life.”
He embarked on a photographic project in the hills of West Virginia but hit a wall when some of his subjects, distrusting his motives, proved uncooperative. A friend told Will he was collecting daguerreotypes. Will thought it an interesting idea. He bought a daguerreotype for $180 and sold it for $200. That $20 profit was all he needed to convince him he could make a living as a dealer specializing in photographs. “Motel 6 was six bucks then; my rent was $40 a month; I figured I could do this,” he says. Will found old daguerreotypes and photographs at country auctions and antique shops. He grossed $3,400 in his first year, of which his profit was $400. Still, he never thought dealing in old photographs would be his life’s work. “I was just supporting myself out of college,” he recalls. He also took all kinds of other jobs, including working in factories, to make ends meet. There was one job he did not take. Given his prowess with numbers and the advice
of his parents, he considered an offer from a Wall Street firm for $13,000. He turned the job down. “My father was upset,” he recalls. “Now, looking back, I can understand them.” Will’s collections have always emphasized historic items, but of late, he has, in addition, started compiling another kind of photographs, classic 20th century press images focusing on civil rights and the Vietnam War. The prints themselves can be cracked, bent — “crummy,” he calls some of them—but he says he is drawn by the drama and the strength of the images. One of those contemporary shots shows Sante Kimes, con artist, fraudster, and finally convicted murderer, at a White House reception shaking hands with President Gerald Ford. “Imagine that, crashing a White House party,” he says. Will’s office is not only full of photographs and books; it is also full of guitars in their cases. “You know, given my nature, I collect,” he says.
He claims he has no ear for music and does not play well. Still, he adds that now he is working on finger-picking. “I once took five lessons, and I am still trying to absorb what I learned,” he says. Will says that though the major focus of most photography collections today is contemporary works, that has not changed his own focus. “I’m still doing historic photos. My fantasy has always been to build an early Americana photo collection that a museum would want,” he says. And now, with the exhibition at the Met, that has indeed happened. “It is a dream come true,” he says. The New Art: American Photography 1839-1910 Through July 20 Metropolitan Museum of Art, Chester Parks and Rec bus trip to see the collection on June 2. For information, visit https://chester.recdesk.com/Community/ Home or call 860-526-0013, ext. 223.
Little Learners at the Library
Louie Listens
Essex Library continues its series of Little Learners story times with stories, songs, rhymes, and crafts around a designated theme. Children enjoy story time on Fridays with the following themes: bunnies on May 9 at 11 a.m., bugs on May 23 at 10 a.m., and camping on May 30 at 10 a.m. 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.
The Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, announces the return of Louie Listens, a program that allows children to read with a licensed therapy dog. Louie Listens takes place Thursday, May 15, at 5 p.m. Parents and guardians can register their children to read for a 15-minute period to Louie the Labrador, a local licensed therapy dog, and his handler, Rebecca Russell. For more information or to register, call the library at 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ESSEX ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, by in person meeting at Town Hall (see agenda on Town’s website www.essexct. gov for further details), at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following applications: Application No. 25-3 on behalf of Essex Light and Power LLC, 6 Ferry Street Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 47 Lot 45, Essex Village District (EV), requesting a modification of variance 07-29 which was granted on August 21, 2007 by deleting the stipulation that the guest apartment not be used as a separate apartment/unit. Application No. 25-4 on behalf of Douglas J. Domenie 27 Pratt Street Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 47 Lot 9, Village Residence 1 District (VR1), requesting variances of Sections 40C, 40D, 40E, 40I.1, 40I.2, and 60-1B for a proposed detached 480 sq ft garage 5 feet from the side property line where 12 feet is required and 5 feet from the rear property line where 15 feet is required and a total building coverage of 21.5% where 15% or 4,000 sq ft whichever is less is allowed. Copies of the application are on file in the Town Clerk’s Office and Land Use Department at Essex Town Hall and can be viewed on the Town’s webpage. Carey Duques, Land Use Official
TOWN OF DEEPRIVER Annual Town Meeting Monday, May 19, 2025, 7:00PM Richard H. Smith Town Hall Auditorium The Annual Town Meeting of the Town of Deep River will be held Monday, May 19, 2025, at 7:00PM in the Richard H. Smith Town Hall Auditorium, to act upon the following: 1) Approve the Town Budget for the Fiscal year 2025-2026 in the amount of $21,394,437.00. 2) To authorize the Tax Collector to collect real estate taxes and personal property taxes in two semiannual installments, the dates to be July 1, 2025, and January 1, 2026. To authorize the Tax Collector to collect regular motor vehicle taxes in one installment, due and payable on July 1, 2025. To authorize the Tax Collector to collect supplemental motor vehicle taxes in one installment, due and payable on January 1, 2026. Any property tax due to the Town of Deep River in an amount that does not exceed one hundred dollars ($100) shall be due and payable in a single installment on July 1, 2025. Dated at Deep River, CT, this Wednesday, April 30th, 2025. Board of Selectmen: Carol Doak-Jones, First Selectman Duane Gates, Selectman Kathryn Russell, Selectman
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MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
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MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
Buddy Up The Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, offers Buddy Up, a program that takes place on a select Saturday each month. Buddy Up features a teen volunteer paired with a younger reader (aged 4 to 8) for a relaxed hour of literacy fun. Teen volunteers earn community service hours and share friendship, fluency, and confidence with an elementary aged book buddy. For the month of May, the program takes place Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m. For more information or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560.
TOWN OF CHESTER NOTICE OF TOWN MEETING 7:00 PM MAY 13, 2025 Chester Meeting House 4 Liberty Street, Chester, CT 06412 IN PERSON ONLY
The electors of the TOWN OF CHESTER, CT and all other citizens qualified to vote in town meetings of the TOWN OF CHESTER are hereby notified and warned that a Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 7pm, to consider and act upon the following: 1. To select the method of payment and due date of installments of property taxes in keeping with CT General Statutes 12-143 as follows: a. Real estate taxes due in two halves, first half due July 1, 2025, and the second half due January 1, 2026 b. All motor vehicle bills due in one payment on July 1, 2025 c. All motor vehicle supplement bills due in one payment on January 1, 2026 d. Minimum interest charge of $2.00 e. Negate all bills under $5.00 2. To adopt a budget for the Town of Chester for fiscal year July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 an amount totaling $18,567,708 as recommended by the Board of Finance. 3. To adopt a five year Capital Budget, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 4. To appropriate the sum of $151,000 from the unassigned general fund balance to Capital Non-Recurring line item # 10-05-62-1000-150, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 5. To authorize the following Capital transfer, as recommended by the Board of Finance: From 20-00-01-0000-007 From 20-00-31-0000-060 From 20-00-31-0000-454 From 20-00-31-0000-458 To 20-00-01-0000-092 To 20-00-31-0000-446 To 20-00-31-0000-453
Board of Selectmen – Assigned Infrastructure – Energy Efficient Projects Infrastructure – North Quarter Park NRCS Matching Funds Board of Selectman – Computer Replacement Infrastructure – Road/Sidewalk/Bridge/Dam Repairs Infrastructure – Parks and Recreation Commission
$256,000.00 $ 19,999.73 $ 19,592.86 $ 47,245.35 $ 13,000.00 $310,245.08 $ 19,592.86
6. To authorize the expenditure of $51,500 from the Capital Fund – Town Hall Computer Replacement line item # 20-00-01-0000-092, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 7. To authorize the expenditure of $24,000 from the Capital Fund – Public Works Highway Equipment line item # 20-00-30-0000-030, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 8. To authorize the expenditure of $449,245.08 from the Capital Fund – Road/Sidewalk/Bridge/Dam Repairs line item # 20-00-31-0000-446, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 9. To authorize the expenditure of $19,592.86 from the Capital Fund – Parks and Recreation Commission line item # 20-000-31-0000-453, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 10. To authorize the expenditure of $110,000 from the Capital Fund – Tree Removal line item # 20-00-31-0000-456, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 11. To authorize the expenditure of $49,537 from the Capital Fund – Town Buildings – Repairs/Code Compliance line item # 20-00-36-0000-065, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 12. To authorize the expenditure of $50,000 from the Capital Fund – Fire – Equipment Replacement line item # 20-00-42-0000-235, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 13. To authorize the expenditure of $60,000 from the Capital Fund – Police – Cruiser Replacement line item # 20-00-45-0000-070, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 14. To authorize the expenditure of $50,000 from the Capital Fund – Chester Elementary School – Building Rehab & Enhancement line item # 20-00-90-0000-064, as recommended by the Board of Finance. 15. To authorize the expenditure of $20,000 from the Capital Fund – Chester Elementary School – Electronic HVAC Controls line item # 20-00-90-0000-461 as recommended by the Board of Finance. Cynthia R. Lignar First Selectwoman
Patricia Bandzes Selectman
Paul Radicchi Selectman
Obituaries Continued from page 5 Obituary
David Martindale Deep River David K. Martindale of Deep River, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on April 13, 2025, following a battle with cancer. Born Jan. 29, 1953, he was the son of the late Harold and June Martindale of Killingworth. David worked at Unilever in Clinton for many years before his retirement. He is survived by his wife, Nancy
(Potter) Martindale, and his children, Elissa of Killingworth, Cynthia and Cheryl of Deep River, and Robert and his wife, Tiffany of Old Saybrook. He is also survived by his brother Gary of Chester; and sister Carol and her husband Leon of Ivoryton; as well as two grandchildren. Memorials were private.
Town Swears In New Emergency Management Team Continued from page 1 “Having Courtney and Cynthia in these positions is great for the town,” she said. “I have no doubt they will do such great work.” Both appointments are effective immediately. The town’s Emergency Management Department is responsible for coor-
dinating and integrating all activities related to preparing for, preventing, mitigating, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and disasters. This includes working with other agencies and departments, developing and implementing emergency plans, and providing resources and support to the community.
Weekend Wiggle Worms The Essex Library offers Weekend Wiggle Worms, an added session of Wiggle Worms, the library's regular Tuesday story time. Weekend Wiggle Worms is a playbased music and movement story time for children ages 3 and younger and their caregivers. Siblings are welcome. Weekend Wiggle Worms takes place at the Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, on Saturdays, May 10, May 17, and May 31 at 9:30 a.m. For more information or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560.
Essex Library Holds Book Sales The Friends of the Essex Library holds its book sales for May, June, and July in the foyer and on some shelves just inside the library, 33 West Avenue. The sale for the month of May focuses on history, biography, and maritime books. The book sale for the months of June and July highlight beach reads, odds and ends, and special interest. Unless otherwise noted, hardcovers are priced at $3 each, or two for $5, and paperbacks are $2 each. For more information, visit the Friends tab at youressexlibrary.org.
Wellness Services for Older Adults Offered at The Estuary The Estuary, 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, offers wellness services to adults aged 50 and over living in the estuary region. Services are by appointment and include footcare (Mondays), haircuts (Tuesdays and Thursdays), massage (first Tuesday of each month), Medicare counseling (first Tuesday of each month), hearing clinics (last Wednesday of each month), and mental health support. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 860-388-1611, ext. 202.
11
COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
TOWN OF CHESTER PROPOSED BUDGET 2025-2026
Revenue in Brief State of Connecticut Education General
$991,921 $344,900
Local Revenue and Fees Property Taxes General
$16,062,207 $968,680
General Fund Balance Total Income
$200,000 $18,567,708
Town Government Capital Chester Elementary School Regional School District #4 Total Expense
$5,391,858 $650,000 $6,081,568 $6,444,282 $18,567,708
From Fund Balance
Proposed Revenue 2025 - 2026 Description State of Connecticut - Education Education - ECS Education - Miscellaneous Total State of Connecticut - Education State of Connecticut - General Government Gas Tax Refund Judicial Fine Reimbursement State Owned Property Telecommunications Veterans’ Tax Exemption Miscellaneous Grants Local Capital Improvement Project Mashantucket Pequot Municipal Revenue Sharing Grants for Municipal Projects Totally Disabled Exemption Town Aid Road Total State of Connecticut - General Government Property Taxes Grand List Current Year Prior Year Taxes Interest and Fees Total Property Taxes Licenses and Permits Aircraft Registration Environmental Fund Fire Marshal Permits Building Permits Pistol Permits Inland Wetland Permits Solicitors’ License Planning and Zoning Permits Raffle Permits Zoning Board of Appeals Permits Total Licenses and Permits Local Revenues Ambulance Interest Dog Fund Parks & Recreation - Program Revenue Police: Private Duty Conveyance Tax Community Investment Account Police Violations Parks & Recreation - Park Passes Rental - Cedar Lake Shack Rental - Meeting House/Community Center Town Clerk Fees Library Fines/Copies Miscellaneous Income Rental - 203 Middlesex Avenue Rental - 20 Water Street Copier - Assessor Sale Obsolete Items Transfers In WPCA Assessment Total Local Revenues Assigned from General Fund Balance Grand Total
Actual 2023/2024 $942,336 $0 $942,336
Adjusted Budget 2024/2025
Proposed Budget 2025/2026
$947,013 $0 $947,013
$991,921 $0 $991,921
$1,442 $1,885 $17,627 $14,516 $2,228 $85 $104,497 $3,278 $94,734 $89,264 $139 $185,991 $515,686
$750 $1,000 $17,500 $8,500 $2,250 $0 $45,000 $3,300 $0 $89,300 $200 $186,000 $353,800
$0 $1,500 $13,000 $10,000 $1,700 $0 $40,000 $3,300 $0 $89,300 $100 $186,000 $344,900
$13,707,633 $64,216 $61,617 $13,833,466
$14,530,365 $70,000 $47,500 $14,647,865
$15,944,707 $70,000 $47,500 $16,062,207
$13,100 $66 $5,989 $121,316 $1,820 $1,150 $800 $1,903 $100 $0 $146,244
$13,000 $100 $1,000 $120,000 $1,500 $500 $750 $4,000 $100 $0 $140,950
$8,550 $75 $500 $120,000 $1,000 $1,000 $750 $3,000 $100 $0 $134,975
$272,734 $336,459 $1,190 $61,486 $106,529 $68,402 $1,086 $1,225 $22,230 $1,700 $8,250 $21,710 $636 $2,957 $76,707 $0 $0 $1,100 $48,545 $26,563 $1,059,509
$325,000 $200,000 $1,600 $71,330 $28,000 $55,000 $1,500 $750 $16,100 $3,000 $7,500 $23,000 $500 $0 $69,300 $0 $0 $0 $0 $10,000 $812,580
$300,000 $225,000 $1,200 $78,855 $30,000 $65,000 $1,100 $0 $17,250 $3,000 $15,000 $22,000 $500 $0 $69,300 $0 $0 $0 $0 $5,500 $833,705
----
$200,000
$200,000
$16,497,241
$17,102,208
$18,567,708
Expenditures in Brief
General Fund Balance Total Fund Balance on June 30, 2024 Nonspendable Assigned for 24/25 Encumbrances Assigned to 24/25 Budget Estimated Surplus 24/25 Additional Appropriations Additional Appropriations (proposed) * Assigned to 25/26 Budget Estimated June 30, 2025 Unassigned Fund Balance
$4,207,631 $0 $0 -$200,000 $282,000 $0 -$151,000 -$200,000 $3,938,631
* Assumes pre-funding capital in the amount of $151,000 from the general fund fiscal year 24/25 surplus.
Proposed Expenditures 2025 - 2026 Actual 2023/2024
Adjusted Budget 2024/2025
Proposed Budget 2025/2026
$201,092 $164,865 $102,960 $107,106 $59,602 $113,194 $300 $28,595 $24,451 $36,994 $380 $5,120 $89,150 $14,265 $90 $1,163 $213,183 $0 $167,581 $1,330,091
$185,842 $176,043 $109,322 $113,542 $72,208 $136,291 $150 $96,485 $51,039 $84,376 $610 $5,815 $53,200 $15,577 $550 $7,100 $195,351 $0 $184,814 $1,488,315
$185,337 $188,173 $118,000 $116,882 $80,905 $140,202 $150 $128,365 $48,600 $81,465 $710 $6,565 $53,200 $16,038 $550 $4,850 $213,947 $8,000 $187,478 $1,579,417
Public Works Highway Building and Grounds Municipal Services Total Public Works
$796,379 $211,876 $180,984 $1,189,238
$852,666 $269,100 $201,200 $1,322,966
$882,262 $264,300 $202,700 $1,349,262
Public Safety Fire Protection Police Protection Safety Services Animal Control Total Public Safety
$533,262 $416,343 $207,072 $32,699 $1,189,376
$547,500 $401,094 $223,550 $47,039 $1,219,183
$585,615 $379,274 $232,863 $43,000 $1,240,752
Health and Welfare Public Health & Sanitation Human Services Department Total Health and Welfare
$63,758 $94,196 $157,954
$50,273 $110,543 $160,816
$45,273 $111,783 $157,056
Miscellaneous Employee Benefits Retirement Board Municipal Insurance Payments to Organization Debt Total Miscellaneous
$565,403 $194,671 $101,867 $24,699 $74,261 $960,901
$573,950 $198,721 $109,536 $23,355 $70,835 $976,397
$649,350 $198,721 $112,629 $36,375 $68,296 $1,065,371
$1,102,250 $1,102,250
$550,000 $550,000
$650,000 $650,000
Education Regional School District #4 Chester Elementary School Total Education
$4,960,720 $5,712,606 $10,673,326
$5,462,645 $5,921,886 $11,384,531
$6,444,282 $6,081,568 $12,525,850
Grand Total
$16,603,136
$17,102,208
$18,567,708
Description General Government Board of Selectmen Finance/Treasurer Town Office Operations Town Clerk Tax Collector Assessor Board of Assessment Appeal Board of Finance Registrar of Voters Building Department Conservation Commission Harbor Management Planning and Zoning Commission Inland Wetlands Zoning Board of Appeals Economic Development Commission Park and Recreation Commission Cedar Lake Watershed Commission Library Total General Government
Reserve Funds Capital Reserve Fund Total Reserve Funds
12
MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
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Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. Call the volunteer line at 860-669-1347 or send an email to volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.
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Chester Blood Pressure Clinic Chester seniors and community members are invited to a blood pressure clinic every third Tuesday from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Chester Town Hall community room, 203 Middlesex Avenue. The public health nurse will be available to check blood pressure and provide health information. Healthy snacks will also be available. For more information, call Public Health Nurse Sherry Carlson at 860-661-3300. FREE ASSESSMENTS FREE ESTIMATES FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Town of Deep River Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Working Budget
Proposed
2024-25
2025-26
Change Dollars
Percent
REVENUES Tax Revenues
$17,374,574
$17,830,265
$455,691
2.6%
New Financing All Other Town Revenues State & Federal Grant Revenues Total Revenues
$0 $772,531 $2,187,733 $20,334,838
$275,000 $1,047,821 $2,035,855 $21,188,941
$275,000 $275,290 ($151,878) $854,103
35.6% -6.9% 4.2%
EXPENDITURES Operating Expenditures Capital Expenditures Total Expenditures
$20,793,663 $50,000 $20,843,663
$20,961,379 $433,058 $21,394,437
$167,716 0.8% $383,058 766.1% $550,774 2.6%
EXCESS OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES
($205,496)
GENERAL FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
$2,925,350
GENERAL FUND FISCAL YEAR-END BALANCE
$2,925,350
GENERAL FUND BALANCE AS A % OF TOTAL EXPENDITURES
$2,719,854 12.71%
ASSESSED VALUATION Total Net Taxable Grand List Tax Rate
$557,357,270 31.38
$561,480,240 31.98
0.60
1 mill Equals
$557,357
$561,480
$4,123
Total Revenue Schedule by Classification Total 4001 Tax Revenues Total 4002 Licenses and Permits Total 4003 Current Service Charges Total 4004 Federal and State Grants Total 4005 Miscellaneous Total Revenue
-17,374,574 -199,700 -288,500 -2,187,733 -284,331 -20,334,838
-17,830,265 -209,700 -288,621 -2,035,855 -549,500 -20,913,941
455,691 10,000 121 -151,878 265,169 579,103
230,654 49,000 109,739 175,221
285,229 42,230 115,430 179,800
Total Expenditures by Department and Function Total 4101 Selectman Total 4102 Elections Total 4103 Town Clerk Total 4104 Finance
1.9%
2.6% 5.0% 0.0% -6.9% 93.3% 2.8%
54,575 23.7% -6,770 -13.8% 5,691 5.2% 4,579 2.6%
Total 4105 Board of Finance Total 4106 Board of Assessment Appeals Total 4107 Assessor Total 4108 Tax Collector Total 4109 Planning and Zoning Total 4110 Zoning Board of Appeals Total 4111 Building Official Total 4112 Inland Wetland Conservat Total 4113 Town Hall Operations Total 4114 Special Services Total 4115 Insurance and Bonds Total 4116 Employee Benefits Total 4201 Police Protection Total 4202 Fire Department Total 4203 Fire Marshal Total 4204 Communications Center Total 4205 Civil Preparedness Total 4301 Highway Department Total 4302 Public Utilities Total 4303 Waste Removal/Recycling Total 4401 Sanitarian Total 4402 Social Services Total 4501 Library Total 4502 Probate Court Total 4503 Park and Recreation Comm Total 4701 Elementary and Supervison Total 4702 Elementary Maint & Equip Total 4703 Regional District #4 Total 4801 Interest Payments Total 4802 Redemption of Debt Total 4901 General Government Capital Total 5001 Political Subdivisions Total 5002 Fountain Hill Cemetery Total Expenses
Working Budget
Proposed
Change
2024-25 31,136 500 189,904 79,296 77,500 300 50,279 12,000 311,895 154,539 127,106 855,002 463,539 235,408 28,170 78,625 3,000 1,020,602 155,485 401,882 51,095 30,251 215,456 2,000 256,646 6,145,233 28,034 8,465,502 25,000 611,946 50,000 86,718 35,000 20,843,663
2025-26 29,943 1,200 198,554 82,990 76,500 300 57,504 11,770 316,568 158,750 127,106 746,306 440,656 220,139 28,950 80,789 3,000 1,057,148 160,978 384,566 52,628 31,973 220,513 8,160 215,080 6,539,337 55,000 8,270,508 25,000 613,892 433,058 87,883 35,000 21,394,437
Dollars Percent -1,193 -3.8% 700 140.0% 8,650 4.6% 3,694 4.7% -1,000 -1.3% 0 0.0% 7,225 14.4% -230 -1.9% 4,673 1.5% 4,211 2.7% 0 0.0% -108,696 -12.7% -22,883 -4.9% -15,269 -6.5% 780 2.8% 2,164 2.8% 0 0.0% 36,546 3.6% 5,493 3.5% -17,316 -4.3% 1,533 3.0% 1,722 5.7% 5,057 2.3% 6,160 308.0% -41,566 -16.2% 394,104 6.4% 26,966 96.2% -194,994 -2.3% 0 0.0% 1,946 0.3% 383,058 766.1% 1,165 1.3% 0 0.0% 550,774 2.6%
14
Sports
VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025 • SPORTS
Valley Courier Valley Courier Thursday, May 8, 2025
Valley Boys’ Track Looking to Make Mark in the Postseason
By Jenn McCulloch Special to The Courier
The Valley boys’ outdoor track team had a “great year” in 2024, according to Head Coach Kevin Woods, who is in his fourth year of coaching after serving 10 years as assistant coach under Tim King and Lou Luciani. The squad was able to fly high and accomplish many different things on the track, due in large part to the talented roster at Woods’ disposal. Now, a year later, the Warriors look at a squad that lost some key contributors from last year’s team, but they hope to push through obstacles and make their presence known in the postseason. The Warriors graduated several athletes who contributed in a variety of events, including Jack Driscoll (high jump, shot put, 100 meters, 4x100), Aidan Babek (high jump, 100, 200, 4x100), McKinley Hartt (javelin, 200, 100, 4x100), and Paul Giantonio (high jump, 4x100). “Those seniors are tough to replace, but we are confident that we will have success with our upand-coming athletes,” said Woods. “We have a good group of freshmen, and we have high expectations for our returning veteran athletes.” Leading the Warriors this season are senior captains Lyle Pitman and Andrew Thomas. Both are four-year veterans with the team. Pitman specializes in long distance and middle distance, while Thomas participates in the shot put, discus, javelin, and long jump. “Lyle is very dedicated, punctual, leads by example, and is always there for his teammates both at practices and meets — Lyle is like having another coach on the field,” said Woods. “Andrew has worked hard transitioning from the jumps to the
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier
Junior Oliver Proctor is a competitive runner for the Valley indoor and outdoor track teams, and he is expected to be a big contributor for the rest of the spring campaign.
throws for his senior year. He is a very supportive teammate, never misses a practice, and is incredibly dedicated to helping the team succeed in any way he can.” The leadership from Pitman and Thomas will be even more important, as Woods noted the Warriors are a “very young team.” In addition to some lack of experience, the team has lower numbers this season, making it necessary for athletes to compete in three or four events in each meet. Woods has to “give our kids a lot of credit for their commit-
ment and flexibility.” In addition to the senior captains, Woods is expecting large contributions from seniors McCoy Gosman, Cooper Mondelci, and Finn Boyles; junior Oliver Proctor, sophomores Kalonji Joyce, Jalen Harrell, Derek Beaudoin, Jonathan Howley, and Finn Recchia; and freshman Tucker Ferretti. The Warriors enjoy competing in the Invitational meets with multiple schools competing. Valley participated in the Marty Roberts Invitational on May 3
and will travel to Old Saybrook for the Running Rams Invitational on May 9. “We always get excited for the big invitational meets,” said Woods. “Our goals are to have as many athletes as possible qualify for events in both the Shoreline and state championships.” Woods is hoping to have a number of athletes competing in the postseason, with the Shoreline Championship scheduled for May 24 and the Class S State Championship on June 2. Standing at 2-4 as a team on the sea-
son, Valley has already seen many of its team members secure their place in the postseason. The 4x400-meter relay team of Beaudoin, Harrell, sophomore Will Ung, and Joyce has qualified for both the Shoreline Conference Championship and Class S State Championship with a time of 47.84. The same quartet makes up the 4x100 team that qualified for the Shoreline Conference Championship. The Warriors have also had a number of Shoreline Conference Championship-qualifying performances. Harrell has qualified in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter, while Beaudoin will compete in the 100-meter and 200-meter. For the sprinting events, Joyce has also secured a spot in the 100-meter, and Howley will compete in the 200-meter. Howley is also a member of the 4x800 relay team along with Pitman, Ferretti, and Proctor that has qualified for Shorelines. Qualifying in individual events were Proctor in the 1600-meter, Recchia in the 110-meter hurdles, and Ferretti in the pole vault. “We want to see individual and team development throughout the season,” said Woods. “We also set the bar high for sportsmanship and pride ourselves on our conduct both on and off the field.” Valley’s roster includes seniors Finn Boyles, McCoy Gosman, Cooper Mondelci, Lyle Pitman, and Andrew Thomas; junior Oliver Proctor; sophomores Derek Beaudoin, Mark Condon, Kaylib Dorothy, Jalen Harrell, Jonathan Howley, Kalonji Joyce, Elliott Paradis, Finn Recchia, and William Ung; and freshmen Mitchell Bowe, Benicio Cardoso, Rex Cecchini, Tucker Ferretti, Adam Goodwin, Bieler Lopez, Payton Riebold, Joshua Sweet, and Jaxon Welch.
15
SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Deep River Horseshoe League Kicks off the Season By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor
Opening Night on Marvin Field signifies the official beginning of spring for members of the Deep River Horseshoe League. Prior to the start of play, Reverend Caronna of the First Congregational Church welcomed the members for their 70th season and offered a prayer for the league and its members. In keeping with tradition, she gave the “Blessing of the Pits” and asked that the players be especially kind to the Yankees team. Teams scurried to get started, knowing that most game sixes would be completed in the dark. Prior to the season, the league determines which players are returning and how many vacancies it will need to field 18 teams, each consisting of three players. Players’ averages are used in deciding which division they will be in, with the top 18 in “A”, the middle 18 in “B,” and the final 18 in “C”. Players move up and down within divisions until the team averages are fairly equal. This year, “A” division gained Frank Rausch, last year’s main substitute, John Sciacca returning from shoulder surgery, Mark Goodale, and Jeremy Davis, and Damin Roberts moved up to “A” division. In addition, the league added four new players to be substitutes, three of which were used in Week 1. The White Sox and Red Sox all started the season in first place with a 5-1 record. The Pirates are the league’s top scoring team and the first to top 300 points at the start of the season. Several players dominated the individual division statistics: Giants’ Mike Zanelli Sr. and Cards’ Kris Toohey for “A” division, Braves’ Peter Furmonavicius, Angels’ Scott Allen Jr., and Tigers’ Harvey Strausser for” B” division, and Pirates’ Anthony Conkling for “C” division. The White Sox got off to a quick start, winning the first three games behind Brady Miller’s two games of 31 and 32 points, and Brian Walsh’s best game of 27 points before Jeremy Davis’s Dodgers were able to gain their lone win. The White Sox won the last two games. In game five, Brady scored another 30 points, and his ringer in the last box gave the White Sox a one-point win, while in game six, it was Howie Fisher’s 31-point game. Bill Beckwith’s Red Sox were without their “B” player. Marlins’ John Hutra had brought a guest, Adam Fortier, who was thrust into the substitute role on the Red Sox. Ironically, the first shoe he tossed was for a ringer. The Red Sox won the first
Photo courtesy of Joe Heery
Pictured is Reverend Caronna of the First Congregational Church providing the "Blessing of the Pits" before the Deep River Horseshoe League kicked off last week.
three games in part due to Fortier scoring 21 points in each of his first two games, and in part as the Marlins’ “B” and “C” players were having difficulty scoring. The Marlins managed to win one game behind Mike Beckwith’s 26-point game. His 74point series was the third leading scorer for “C” division. The Marlins really made the Red Sox work for their wins, as the Red Sox won four of their five games by less than three points.
Braves’ Rausch and Mets’ Goodale both scored 35 points in game one, but it was Goodale’s double, and Leif Selander added four points in the last box for a Mets win. In the next four games, Furmonavicius was the spark that led to the Braves winning. His 109-point series was the leading “B” division scorer. In game six, well past sunset and with only the streetlights for some light, it was Mike Shashok, who last played in the league seven years ago, sub-
stituting on the Mets and had a 27-point game to lead to the Mets’ second win. The Braves are grouped with six other teams with a 4-2 record. In Sciacca’s first game back since his shoulder surgery, his Diamondbacks had a four-point handicap advantage in game one, as they battled Skip Robinson’s Pirates. The Pirates held a one-point lead going into the last box. Both teams scored seven in the last box, and the Pirates got their first win. The players would match up again in game four, and this time, the Diamondbacks had a five-point lead going into the last box. The Pirates scored six, while the Diamondbacks only managed one point, and it resulted in the night’s only tied game. The Pirates finished the night with a 4.5-1.5 victory. Robinson’s 123-point series was second highest for “A” players, and Pirates’ Anthony Conkling’s 88-point series was tops for “C” division. He was the leader for “C” Division in all six statistics categories. The 303 points the Pirates scored as a team was rare for the first night. Last year’s top two scorers faced each other - Cardinals’ No. 1 Toohey vs. Giants’ No. 2 Zanelli Sr. In the first two games they faced each other, Zanelli scored 42 and 47 points for Giants’ wins. In their next two games, Toohey scored 35 and 33 points, leading to Cardinals’ wins. Zanelli finished the night with a 131-point series and was the leading scorer for “A” division. He is the leading scorer in all six statistics categories. Toohey was the third leading scorer for “A” division with a 119-point series. The Cardinals won both “B”/”C” games and finished with a 4-2 record. Angels’ Tony Cutone and Scott Allen Jr. combined for 206 points in a 4-2 win over John Durinick’s Orioles. Allen’s 104-point series led the “B” division, and he was in the top three in all six statistics categories for “B” division. The Angels finished 4-2 for the night. The Yankees vs. the Tigers was one of four matches that had to finish their last game in the dark. Paul Noel was a substitute on the Yankees’ team, and his 83point series was the second leading score for “C” division. Tigers’ Strausser’s 102point series was the third highest for “B” division players and in the top three of all statistics categories. The Tigers won 4-2, and they finished the last game in the dark. Both the Cubs defeated the Reds 4-2 and the Rangers won two games against the Rockies – the first and the last one in the dark.
16
MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • SPORTS
Pitman is a ‘Coach’s Dream’ as he leads Valley Outdoor Track in Senior Season By Serenity Bishop Special to the Courier
Valley Regional senior captain Lyle Pitman has been referred to as a coach’s dream, and as he helps lead his outdoor track team into his final high school season, Lyle is hoping to leave the program in better hands than how he found it. Leadership is a quality that has always been instilled into Lyle, even before he decided to run competitively in eighth grade. Lyle’s athletic career began as a soccer player, but he ultimately switched to track after being encouraged by his father, whom he would join on runs at Canfield Woods as an enjoyable pastime between the two. Almost immediately, Lyle fell into a position of leadership, as he was thrust into a captain role. Lyle has held that title on the outdoor team for the last five seasons, while also being named captain in cross country and indoor track over the last few years. Lyle explains that becoming the team captain is not a role that he initially sought, but it is one that has become natural for him since he has had several years of experience in leading different teams. “I’ve had plenty of experience in that field of leadership in the past, so I think I can be a logical choice for whenever the position comes around, but through that experience, it has also taught me to seek it out,” Lyle says. “I know that I enjoyed it, and I know that I’m alright at it.” He adds that this season, his role is slightly different, as the Valley Regional team is much younger than in years past after graduating several of its top athletes last season. “I’m one of two boys’ captains on the team, and I cover all of the running stuff,” Lyle says. “My counterpart, Andrew Thomas, is the field side of things. He’s a thrower and a jumper while I deal with all the running, so I have a decent amount of weight on my shoulders, but I’ve been taught to handle it well.” Individually, Lyle has found success in several events as part of the distance relay teams and the 400-meter, but his main race is the 800-meter. The combination of distance, speed, and strategy has allowed him to set a personal record (PR) in that specific race of 2:18.2. Athletes must run under 2:20 to qualify for the Shoreline Conference meet, which Lyle attended last year. He said reaching the conference meet as an individual was a
Sports Person Week of the
testament to the work that he has put in over the last few seasons. “It felt very gratifying last year to kind of see that most of the work that I put in paid off,” says Lyle. “I was floating around that 2:25 mark for a really long time, and it was nice to finally get over that hump and take down that hurdle.” Lyle’s improvement comes down to the training that he puts in all year long and the guidance of his coaches at Valley Regional. He trains all year, while taking 10 days to two weeks off between seasons and a month off in the summer to relax and recover. The small size of the team at Valley Regional also provides a more singular coach focus. Valley Regional boys’ outdoor track Head Coach Kevin Woods speaks to the hard work that Lyle puts in and how it resonates with the rest of the team. “He leads by example. He pushes everybody in practice, sets the tone with his work ethic, and pushes others to get to their potential,” Woods says. “He’s always positive, puts the team first at all times. He’s just a coach’s dream to have.” Woods also mentions the maturity of Lyle and how the way he carries himself stands out among his peers. “He’s a very mature 17-year-old,” Woods adds. “He’s years ahead of his time with maturity and responsibility. We’re truly blessed to have him.” So far this season, the team has had solid times in its first three meets. Despite the youth of the team, the roster holds several talented athletes who are working to make their mark in the conference. Lyle specifically is working to get his wind back under him but has acknowledged that he can already see the development from years past to the start of his senior season. Lyle is running with more strategy and has come into the season with better times than at the start of previous years. “I can see that what I’m learning is paying off,” Lyle says. This will be the last season that Lyle
Photo courtesy of Lyle Pitman
Lyle Pitman serves as a senior captain for the Valley boys' outdoor track team this spring, as he leads with maturity beyond his years.
plans to run competitively. Next year, he intends to study journalism at UConn after developing a love for the craft of production and writing while being a fouryear team member of Valley TV. He shares that while his goal is to return to the conference meet, he is hoping that he can look back on his senior season
more fondly than anything else. “I’d like to remember it as a fun, successful season,” Lyle explains. “I’d like to get back to shorelines, and I’d like to have a good time with my teammates and friends that I’ve gained over the past couple of years in the program.”
17
SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Golf Splits the Week, Girls’ Tennis Wins Three By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor b
Golf
Wraps WARRIORS
On April 28, Valley golf defeated Hale Ray 184-202 in league play. The match was played at Black Hall Club. The Warriors traveled to HaddamKillingworth on May 1 and fell 172-176. Braeden Nunes scored a 38, Owen Gal- Hannah Smith won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 2 sinlagher scored a 42, Owen Ingram scored a gles. Ella Smith earned a No. 3 singles vic43, and Luke Beighau scored a 53. tory (6-0, 6-0), and Riley Russell competed at No. 4 singles and won 6-2, 6-0. b At No. 1 doubles, Regan Grow and AlesBoys’ Tennis sia Pisanzio won 6-1, 6-0. Alana Martinez On April 28, Valley boys’ tennis hosted and Ella Martinez earned a 6-0, 6-0 victory Cromwell and took a 5-2 loss. Myles Gar- at No. 2 doubles, and Sydney Liggett and rity won 6-3, 6-1 at No. 2 singles, and Ryan Charlotte Kolb won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 3 sinPoulin won 6-4, 6-3 at No. 3 singles. gles. Two days later, the Warriors hosted On April 30, Valley traveled to WestWestbrook and fell 6-1. brook and won 5-2. Hannah Smith picked The Warriors wrapped up the week at up a win at No. 2 singles (6-0, 6-1), and home on May 1, taking a 7-0 loss to Had- Ella Smith won 6-3, 6-0 at No. 3 singles. dam-Killingworth. Riley Russell earned a 6-4, 6-3 victory in the No. 4 singles spot. b On the doubles side, Grow and Pisanzio Girls’ Tennis won 6-2, 6-0 at No. 1, and Liggett and Kolb The Valley girls’ tennis team traveled to won 6-1, 6-1 at No. 3. Cromwell on April 28 and won 7-0. Sophia On May 1, the Warriors traveled to Bonanno won 6-3, 6-1 at No. 1 singles, and Haddam-Killingworth and won 7-0.
Fishing report CAPTAIN MORGAN’S
Most of the focus is on striped bass now that spring blackfish season is in the rearview mirror. Stripers have lined the beaches, bays, and tidal rivers with a class of schoolies stretching light gear to the limit. A combination of natural baits and artificials are racking up solid catches. Be on the lookout for the slot limit curve breaker that slipped in from the holdover pack or made its way into the Sound after migrating. Porgy fanatics are excited
about porgy season being open, and flukers are looking forward to more doormats this season. Inland waters keep getting more productive as trout get more stockings and lakes see action-packed bass, toothy critter, and panfish catches increasing. For more on this attention-getting fishing season, click over to Captain Morgan’s weekly column featured on zip06.com and search for: “Ospreys Deserve Better.”
Bonanno won 6-3, 6-3 at No. 1 singles, and Hannah Smith won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 2 singles. Ella Smith earned a 6-0, 6-1 victory at No. 3 singles, and Riley Russell won 6-2, 61 at No. 4 singles. For doubles, Grow and Pisanzio won 60, 6-0 at No. 1. Alana Martinez and Ella Martinez won 6-1, 6-0 at No. 2, and Liggett and Kolb won 6-2, 6-3 at No. 3. b
Softball Valley softball traveled to Coginchaug on April 28 and fell 1-0. Paige Williams pitched six innings, giving up two hits and one unearned run. She walked one and struck out eight. The next day, the team traveled to Somers and won 6-2. Dakota Camire and Williams drove in two runs each, and Amelia Giantonio and Carley Spearrin each drove in one. Williams threw seven innings, giving up three hits and two earned runs. She walked three and recorded 13 strikeouts. b
Crew The Valley/Old Saybrook co-op crew team competed in the Coventry Lake
Community Rowing Invitational regatta on May 3. Seven schools and clubs participated on Coventry Lake. It turned out to be a beautiful day with some wind and plenty of sunshine. The girls’ first varsity boat came out strong and took a significant lead. The girls did not, however, understand clearly where the finish line was and stopped short of it. They were not able to get going before the North Hampton boat passed them, and they realized their mistake. They finished in second place. One of the boys in the first varsity boat suffered a concussion while the boat was launching, so they did not end up racing. Although the boys in the second varsity race launched successfully, there was an equipment failure, and they were not able to race. The G1V4 boat placed second out of four. The G2V4 boat placed second out of four, and the B1V4 boat did not finish due to injury. The B2V4 boat did not finish due to an equipment issue, and the G3V4 boat placed third out of three.The BN4 boat took third out of four, and the B1V8 boat placed third out of three. The G1V8 boat placed third out of five.
Schedules Baseball
Boys’ Tennis
Friday, May 9: vs. North Branford at 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 12: at Cromwell at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 15: vs. Tolland at 4 p.m.
Saturday, May 10: at Westbrook at 11 a.m. Monday, May 12: vs. Coginchaug at 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, May 13: vs. Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m. Thursday, May 15: vs. Morgan at 3:45 p.m.
b
Golf
b
Friday, May 9: at Wheeler at 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 13: at Old Lyme at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 15: at Cromwell at 2 p.m.
Monday, May 12: at Coginchaug at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, May 21: vs. Coginchaug at 3:45 p.m.
Girls’ Tennis
b
b
Wednesday, May 14: at Morgan w/ Coginchaug at 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10: vs. Notre Dame Prep at noon Tuesday, May 13: vs. Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. Thursday, May 15: at Old Saybrook at 6:30 p.m.
Outdoor Track
Boys’ Lacrosse
b
Want Help to Get into Art School? Spectrum Gallery is hosting a new program, Portfolio Development for Art Schools, to help young artists get accepted into their chosen art school. During these one-onone, two-hour sessions, participants and their art instructor will investigate what each student’s specific art schools are looking for and how to achieve an art portfolio which will increase their chances of admission. The program helps clarify the requirements for the schools of interest, create the assignments accordingly, and review and improve participant skills like shading, coloring, composition, and basic design. The program takes place at Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. For more information or to register, email barbara@spectrumartgallery.org or visit spectrumartgallery.org.
Softball
b
Friday, May 9: vs. North Branford at 4 p.m. Monday, May 12: at Cromwell at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 14: vs. Cromwell at 3:45 p.m.
Tuesday, May 13: at Cromwell at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 15: vs. Old Saybrook at 6 p.m.
HIGH
Tides ESSEX
May 8 to May 14
Girls’ Lacrosse
Day 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
A.M. 9:07 9:48 10:27 11:07 11:48 12:35
P.M. 9:20 9:59 10:37 11:15 11:54 12:31 1:14
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20 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER
MAY 8, 2025
Eastern Connecticut’s leading multimedia company is
NOW HIRING
— SPORTS REPORTER (SHORELINE EDITORIAL) —
Position Summary:
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
DECKS
WeResidential Stain& Commercial Decks!
DECK RESTORE
Complete Power Washing
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Decks, Fences, Houses, Concrete
Quality Hand Staining
Decks, Fences, Houses, Concrete Affordable Rates • Free Estimates Call for an Appointment We also do Interior Painting
Mike 203-589-0442
Free Estimates beautify your home.
203-996-4981 Brian
licensed /insured HIC #0678344
Lic #0633727
EXCAVATING
• Septic Repair • Wet Basement Repair • Top Soil & Stone
s ed Licenured s n I &
Serving the Shoreline Since 1985
Complete Site Work - Paving - Driveways Mulch, Stone, Screened Topsoil, Sand & Gravel House Sites, Septic Systems, Demolition Water Mains, Sewers 756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT
www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665
C&C EXCAVATING
DRYWALL
ELECTRICAL
Carrier Drywall
Daniel Brown Electric LLC
Drywall Specialist Over 40 years experience • Hanging • Textured Ceilings • Taping
I’m French Canadian! I’m not saying I know it all, but when it comes to drywall, give me a call.
203-623-4087
carrierdrywall.com
GUTTER CLEANING
EXCAVATION • FOUNDATIONS • SEAWALLS
CLUTTER IN THE GUTTER
We Dig & Pour Foundations for New Homes, We Raise Homes & Install Elevated Foundations, Additions & Garage Foundations Seawall Construction & Repointing Dock Installation & Jetty Revetments
GUTTERS
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Joe Scala
Fully Insured | HIC. 061885 References upon request
The Original
Owner/ Operator Scott Behler
CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
203-530-7191
860-399-4444
CT License #199056-E1 Licensed & Fully Insured P.O. Box 221, Westbrook, CT 06498
FOUNDATIONS
www.camarotaexcavating.com • 203-868-2389
SEAMLESS GUTTERS PLUS
• New Construction • Generators Chargers • Remodeling/ • Car Landscape Lighting Additions • Pools • Service Upgrades • Troubleshooting • Kitchens • Baths • Finished Basements
Scott’s Gutter Fully Insured Cleaning HIC #0634550
With The Proven Experience In Site Excavation & Waterfront Development for Over 25 years
Protect Your Investment | Call Us Today
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www.KEBrazaConstruction.com
No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters Roof Repairs • Handyman Services Power Washing • Roof Washing Black Stains & Algae Removal Prompt Courteous Service, Done on Time
203-466-0520
HIRE A VETERAN
VALLEY COURIER • CLASSIFIEDS • 21
MAY 8, 2025 GUTTERS
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Green Gloves L Gutters, LC
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
ZIGGYS
• Residential/ Commercial
HOME IMPROVEMENT
• Irrigation Installs/ Renovations
ALL TYPES OF HOME IMPROVEMENT
SEAMLESS GUTTERS • Installation • Repair • Cleaning • Roofing • Window Replacement • Remodeling • Gutter Gaurds • Siding
• Maintenance Kitchens • Baths • Decks • Roofing Hatchway Doors • Patios • Siding
• Irrigation Winterizations
We also have licensed plumbers & electricians as needed
203-245-9448
SERVING MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW HAVEN COUNTY & FAIRFIELD COUNTY
GREENGLOVESGUTTERS.COM
COMPLETE BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
860.202.2697
860-767-0889
Fully Licensed and Insured CT Lic# P1-0204385
www.waterworksirrigations.com
Lic# HIC.0656691 • Fully Licensed & Insured
HOME IMPROVEMENT
JUNK REMOVAL
HOME IMPROVEMENTS FREE ESTIMATES - INSURED - HIC# 0647093
INTERIOR - EXTERIOR REPAIRS SHEETROCK - FINISHING CEILING - WALL REPAIRS DEKS - PORCHES - STAIRS DECKS POWER WASHED - STAINED
CALL BILL 203-901-2136 LANDSCAPING FRESH EGGS
The CT handyman LandsCaping LLC
Tree Work - Mulching of Beds - Spring & Fall Clean Ups Weeding of Beds - Pruning of Shrubs – Firewood Deck Repairs - Landscape Design - Brush Hogging of Fields
860-490-0986 ask for Jim
LANDSCAPING
DUMPSTER RENTALS
Rent our E-Z 8 YDer Easy to Load Low-Sided Dumpster Commercial & Residential
JUNK REMOVAL SERVICES
MAJOR CHARGE CARDS ACCEPTED
Licensed & Insured
• Spring Start Ups
Lic. # 0653900
Locally Owned and Operated Family Business 12YD 12 YD,, 15YD 15YD,, 20YD 20YD,, 30YD 30YD AVAILABLE
Mobile Storage Units Available Rent A Shed 8ft x 14ft Demolition / Renovations / Clean-Outs 7 Days a Week Service 22 Years Serving CT Shoreline
Call for Current Rates
• General Waste Removal • Construction Debris • Sheetrock Demo • Shed and Deck Demo & Removal • Oil Tanks and Drums • Garage Cleanouts
We Donate & Recycle!
860-373-2464
860-662-0124 www.KEBrazaConstruction.com
www.thecleanoutcompanyllc.com
203.727.6405
Ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com
• Landscaping • Painting • Mowing • Trimming • Masonry Service • Mulching • Gutter Cleaning • Powerwashing • Small Tree Removal • Fall & Spring Clean-Ups
Mejia’s Lawn Cut Services, LLC All Aspects of Residential/Commercial Lawn Care * Spring Cleanups * Tree Work * Power Washing * Brush Removal * Gutter Cleaning * Stonework * Lawn Installations (Seed or Sod) & Maintenance * Planting, Pruning, Mulching, Trimming, Weeding * Weekly Lawn Cutting Available * Painting No Job Too Big or Too Small Call (203) 928-0241 today for your free estimate!
LANDSCAPING
LANDSCAPE SERVICES LLC
Serving All Shoreline Communities
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
FINANCING AVAILABLE
www.violalandscaping.com 860-635-1030 office@violalandscapingllc.com
Spring & Fall Clean Ups • Mowing Complete Lawn Maintenance Bed Design • Plant Installation Mulching • Retaining Walls Lawn Repair Sod and Seed Lawn Installation Is Our Specialty!
We Use Ryan Aeration and Slice Seeding Equipment Call for Free Estimates and Mowing Quotes!
203-481-2436
perfectturflandscapeservices.com www.perfectturfservices.com
22 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER
MAY 8, 2025 LANDSCAPING
R&J
Precision Landscaping for Every Season
Call for your FREE LANDSCAPING estimate today. Ryan & Glenn 203-200-8886 Rjlandscapesllc@gmail.com
MIKE’S LANDSCAPING
Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans
Commercial / Residential
Property Maintenance, Drainage, Tree Service, Power-washing, Masonry, Patio’s, Retaining Walls, Sidewalks, Flower Beds, Hedges, Mulching / Stonework (Delivery Available), Lawn Installation & More!
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • CONDO • Irrigation Systems Installs/Maintenance • Lawn & Landscape Maintenance • Fertilizing & Tick Control • Retaining Walls • Architectural Pavers: Poolside & Patios • New Lawn Installations: Sod Installs/Hydroseed • Excavations & Drainage • Landclearing/Foundation: Dozer Site Work • Dumpster Services Serving the Shoreline Area Since 1996
203-676-7181
Lic & Ins
FREE Est.
THE SEASHORE CONSTRUCTION CO. Sand, Fill, Pipe Bedding, Gravel, Sub Soil, Screened Topsoil Call for Pricing - 203-245-9457
Call today for consultation (860) 767-2811 www.sullivanlawnservices.com FERT #B2547
CT HIC #0606162 CT Lic# P1-0204385
seashoremadison@aol.com
Since 1959
MASONRY
D. Masonry & Restoration
Father & Son Masonry
203. 469.6670
• Pointing & Brick • Caulking • Power Washing • Patios & Water Proof • Chimneys / Chimney Cleaning • Block • All Types of Masonry Work & Repair Lic. #616858
Accept Major Credit Cards
*Free Estimates*
MASON CONTRACTOR FIREPLACE SPECIALIST OLD WORLD MASONRY LICENSED & INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES
Fireplaces • Brick Veneers • Exterior Kitchens Pizza Ovens • Stone Walls • Thin Stone Patios • Walkways • Retaining Walls All Types of Repairs
Tom: 203-410-6037 www.clemmartoneconstruction.com
Over 30 years experience Specializing In:
Stonewalls, Seawalls, Special Steps, Patios, Sidewalks, Swimming Pools, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Belgium Block, Blue Stone Pavers, Stucco, Big & Small Jobs Welcomed We do it all! Serving the Shoreline with Pride Great Prices Italian Craftsmanship All Work Guaranteed Cell: 203-510-9162 - Jeff Office: 203-565-9079 - Jimmy
HIC.0571018 Fully Insured Free Estimates
OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP
SOSOLI’S M AS O N RY, L LC HIC.0618942
Stone Walls • New Fireplaces Special Steps • Stone Design Swimming Pools • Sidewalks • Stucco Chimneys • Patio Bricks & Blocks Small & Large Jobs
10% OFF WITH THIS AD (exp. 4.30.25)
Specialized Masonry Work Owner on Every Job 30 Years Experience Free Estimates
Cell (203) 598-2524 www.greatmason.com
MOVING AND HAULING
PAINTING
NEED SOMETHING MOVED?
Quality Work Since 1987
“No Job Too Small”
Will do Dump Runs also. Call Luke at
203-464-0444
Gold Star Painting Specialists Connecticut Shoreline
Dominic Bosco
office: 203-245-7144 cell: 203-444-3465 dominic@GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com www.GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com
203-245-1877 Ext. 6130 860-701-4412
Interior/Exterior • Minor Carpentry Popcorn Ceiling Removal Wallpaper Removal
c: 203.430.4194 • martinardolino@gmail.com
VALENTINO PAINTING, L.L.C.
Community
in print every week & online every day at zip06.com
M.A. PAINTING
MARTIN ARDOLINO CTHIC#0638601
Interior | Exterior | Cabinet Refinishing Call or email today for a free quote.
(203) 218 5400
kevin@brodallpainting.com
Commercial & Residential Interior/Exterior Painting Power Washing - Staining Free Estimate/Fully Insured/Licensed CT HIC.0578520
203-483-5590 203-483-5590 • 203-645-8717 www.valentinopaintingllc.net Valentinopaintingllc@yahoo.com
TONY’S TONY’S MASONRY TONY’SMASONRY MASONRY TONY’S MASONRY LLC LLC LLC LLC LLC “Old World Craftsmanship”
Stonewalls • Stone Design • Fireplaces Outdoor Kitchens • Patios • Brick & Stucco Swimming Pools • Porches • Special Steps www.tonythemason.com Excavations & Drainage • Etc. www.tonythemason.com www.tonythemason.com CELL www.tonythemason.com (203) 982-5267 www.tonythemason.com
CELL (203) 982-5267 CELL(203) (203)871-9971 982-5267 OFFICE CELL (203) 982-5267 CELL (203) OFFICE (203)982-5267 871-9971 OFFICE(203) (203)871-9971 871-9971 OFFICE OFFICE (203) 871-9971
Licensed • FREE Estimates Over 30 years exp.
Sam’s Stoneworks, LLC
Sidewalks • Stonewalls • Chimneys Serving CT Patios • Pavers • Concrete for over 20 years NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL Call Sam today for a FREE estimate!
203-558-3261
Fully licensed and insured • CT reg#0669540
Professional Workmanship
CoastlinePainters.com Call: 203-458-2073 Text: 203-738-9090 Custom Interior & Exterior Painting Carpentry, Power washing, Decks Kitchen Cabinet Painting Expert Wallpaper/Wall Covering Installers
VALLEY COURIER • CLASSIFIEDS • 23
MAY 8, 2025 PAINTING
POWERWASHING
ROOFING
BOOK YOUR EXTERIOR PAINTING NOW!
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
CALL OR TEXT TODAY
Interior/Exterior Painting Specialists Cabinet Repainting Popcorn Removal Carpentry & Rot Repair
EAG PAINTING
PRESSURE WASHING • Cement & Patios • Tennis Courts • Brick • Driveways • Walkways • Decks • Fence • Truck Fleet Washing
Insured CT LIC. #606457
ENTERPRISES, LLC
EAGPainting@Comcast.Net Call or E-mail Today for a FREE QUOTE!
203-915-3913
SERVICES
Since 1986
Many References • Clean Quality Work
SOFT WASHING
HOME IMPROVEMENT LLC.
• House Washing • Roof Cleaning • Solar Panels • Cedar Wash
ROOFING SIDING GUTTERS WINDOWS DECKS
YOUR ROOFING AND SIDING EXPERTS
• Gutter Cleaning • Window Cleaning
1000 OFF
$
FULL ROOF OR SIDING REPLACEMENT WITH THIS AD
LICENSED & INSURED FREE ESTIMATES • FINANCING AVAILABLE
860.381.9336
Call 203-318-0308 • whitegloveservicesct.com
christopherimprovement.com
ROOFING
INSURANCE CLAIMS MADE EASY
ROOFS WASHED
Roofing Specialists
Moss, Algae, Black Stains
Free Estimates All Work Guaranteed
Call Scott’s Gutters 203-466-0520 HIRE A VETERAN
24-Hour Emergency Service Available
860-526-2127
ROOFING ANDDAMAGE SIDING • STRUCTURAL STRUCTURAL DAMAGE • WATER DAMAGE WATER DAMAGE • INSURANCE CLAIMS INSURANCE CLAIMS • KITCHENS, MAJOR ANDADDITIONS MINOR REPAIRS & MAJOR RENOVATIONS
Roofing Gutter Cleaning EPDM Roofing Flat Roofs COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
HIC #0634550
ROOFING & SIDING 230 Deming Road, Berlin, CT 2046 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT
860-759-8617
artisanroofingct.com
CT Reg No. 00509027
CT Reg No. 00509027
COVONERESTORATION.COM
INC.
“Quality Roofing Since 1928” “Quality Roofing • Shingle RoofsSince 1928” Shingle Roofs• Leaders • Flat Roofs • Seamless Gutters Flat Roofs •••Shingle Roofs •Seamless Leaders Repairs • Skylights • Slate Repairs ••Flat Roofs •Gutters • Repairs ••Seamless • Skylights Leaders Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates SlateInsured Repairs• Licensed •Gutters Repairs ••Fully • Skylights
www.russoroofing.com Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates (203) 562-8077 • Slate www.russoroofing.com Repairs CT Reg No. 00509027 • Fully Insured • Licensed
(203) 624-ROOF
Residential • Commercial (203) 562-8077 (203) 624-ROOF Free Estimates www.russoroofing.com • Fully Insured • Licensed
(203)
A Roof Above The Rest
A Roof Above The Rest 562-8077 • (203) 624-ROOF
“Quality Roofing Since 1928”
RESTORATION,LLC
ROOFING
ROOFING
203-453-5571 203-453-5571 Family Owned & Operated
Family Owned & Lic. #613241 Insured Financing Available Family/ Fully Owned & /Operated Operated
www.ENHRestoration.com www.ENHRestoration.com
Lic. #613241 / Fully Insured / Financing Available
24 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER
MAY 8, 2025 ROOFING
BENNY’S
ROOFING & REMODELING, LLC
Lic #HIC 563451
FREE ESTIMATES
RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL CT License #603258
Residential
Residential/Commercial • New Roofs • Re-Roofs(All Types) New Roofs • Re-Roofs (All Types) • Chimney Flashing All Types of Chimney Flashing • All Types of Flashing Work Sky Lights • Seamless Seamless Gutters Gutters • Demolition Fully Insured • All Work Warranteed • Reasonable Prices Fully Insured • All Work Warranteed
203-640-9820 bennysroofingremodeling@gmail.com
ROOFING & REPAIRS
Reasonable Prices • Free Estimates
CT Lic #06032512
203-640-9820
CT License #603258
manolyroofing@aol.com
A+Rating Rating A+
TREE SERVICES
Rob’s TRee Removal
••Tree TreeRemoval Removal ••60’ Truck 60’Bucket Bucket Truck StormDamage Damage ••Storm BranchPiles Piles ••Branch Firewood ••Stump Grinding AllCalls Calls Returned ••All Returned Reasonable Rates ••Reasonable Rates
SKYWAY
5 STAR QUALITY & SERVICE
ROOFING &REPAIRS CONTACT PAUL:
Licensed
Insured
203-483-7314
Restoration LLC
ROOFINGProfessionals
FINANCING Roofing / Siding / Gutters / Skylights / Windows / Doors AVAILABLE 0% Interest 1000’S OF SATISFIED HOMEOWNERS! 18 Months Have your project done the RIGHT way, 60 Months Low Interest with SKYWAY. FATHER & SONS OWNED & OPERATED
203-234-1906 | 203-671-1368 www.skyway-roofing.com
860.961.2825
Licensed & Insured Lic. #0573204
AMPMRoofing.com
Senior & Veteran Discounts
TREE SERVICES
OWNER ON EVERY JOB
860-552-9376
We Make Tree Work Affordable
Fully Isured
License # S-6079
J. Witkowsky & Sons Tree Service llc
Pruning • Removals Crane Service Bucket Truck • Firewood Stump Grinding
203-671-9662
North Branford, CT 06471
John Witkowsky johnross@snet.net
RT
T REE REMOVAL L.L.C Affordable and Professional Tree Services
Tree Removal • Chipping • Storm Cleanup • Stump Grinding Shrub Trimming • Emergency Response • Line Clearance Certified
Free Estimates - Fully Insured - Competitive Prices
203-731-7710 • 1-877-669-1535
Same day call back. We accept credit cards. www.rttreeremoval.com • brian@rttreeremoval.com
CALL NOW SPRING IS HERE!
• TREE REMOVALS • STUMP GRINDING Div. of Provider Inc. • TREE and SHRUB PRUNING NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL Our Staff are Prompt, Courteous, Professionals Richard Anderson CT Licensed Arborist # 62697
(203) 245-8733
FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES
WATERPROOFING Licensed & Insured
Fun By The Numbers
FREE
TREE REMOVAL TREE CLIMB
Estimates
60’ Bucket Truck • 75’ Bucket Truck
CALL JOHN 860.304.0411 WINDOW CLEANING
R
C
ROWELLCLEANING CLEANING ROWELL SERVICELLC LLC SERVICE S
SPECIALIZING IN WINDOW CLEANING, SPECIALIZING IN RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING
WINDOW CLEANING, CARPETS & FLOORS RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIALTel. CLEANING P.O. Box 589,
Madison, CT 06443
203-245-8647
203-245-8647 email. rcsllc64@gmail.com
39 ORCHARD PARK ROAD • MADISON
SUDOKU
• Full Service Tree Removal • Land/Lots Cleared • Brush Piles Chipped • 60’ Aerial Truck/Climbers • Stump Grinding
Brian Miller
Over 20 Years Experience Clinton, CT
&
SUDOKU
TOP NOTCH TREE, LLC
Basement Waterproofing Services Over 31 years experience
FOOTING DRAINS GUTTER DOWNSPOUT DRAINS CRAWL SPACES LANDSCAPING DRAINAGE GRAVITY DRAINS CRACK SEALING SUMP PUMPS PUMP INSPECTIONS Lic & Ins. FREE Est.
860-639-7935
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25
LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Of Motherhood, Acceptance, and Gratitude By Liz Egan Special to Living
Recently, I had a revelation about my mother. It was not a lightning bolt moment or an “aha! I figured it out” sensation, but an unfolding awareness that has ripened with age. I have realized I am the person I am not “in spite of” but “because of.” I can accept my mother as a person just like me and be grateful for all she provided. My mother, Virginia Dolores Weber, was born in August of 1922, the third of four children, in Brooklyn, New York. When she was 13, at the height of the Depression, her mother, whom she adored, died of acute appendicitis at home. Her two older brothers joined the Army and were stationed overseas. In high school, she took on the role of the mother in her home. When her brothers returned from the war, she cared for them. Her father remarried, changing the home dynamic. She was athletic and adventurous. She loved to read. She enjoyed her proximity to New York City and frequently windowshopped her favorite stores. She had secretarial skills she learned in high school. Asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, she responded, “A mother.” My parents were married in May of 1942 and moved to Hempstead, Long Island. After having three children in as many years, they bought a larger home in the small community of Islip Terrace in the township of The Islips. When they were blessed by many more children, my father added additions onto their home. Together, they enlarged their family to 15 children and expanded their home by five additions. I enjoy many childhood memories of my mother. Her face smiled at all of us as she peeled apple after apple with a paring knife while we all sat around the kitchen table doing our homework after school. On Friday nights, we would play Pokeno or Bingo. She would sneak into her drawer in the laundry room and share a rain hat, a pencil, a pad, or a mint that she collected as prizes. She loved the beach and took us there often. She taught us to make jelly from the grape vines in our yard. She loved dress shops like Loehmann’s. She had her hair done every Friday. She told us we had great skin. Her skin was so soft, made so by years of cold cream and lotion. Once my siblings and I were all in school, she took up playing golf and joined a Women’s League on Wednesdays. She participated in a regular Bridge Group and hosted many tournaments in our home. She belonged to a Tuesday Home Extension group of other homemakers who shared recipes and crafts each week. Through that group, she learned to hook rugs, cane chairs, and do needlepoint. She took painting lessons from a local art teacher. She always had a knitting project going, teaching each of us to knit. She had a sweet tooth. As a child with epilepsy, my case was reviewed monthly as part of New York Hospital’s Grand Rounds program. The two of us took the Long Island Railroad and she instinctively navigated the subways and buses to get to our destinations. She rewarded my courage during these trips by going to museum exhibitions. The trials of these journeys I see now as the gift that inspired me to be an artist. My seizures also frequently brought me home from school early. On those many days, we would often bake together.
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Virginia Dolores Weber in her 8th grade graduation photo.
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Virginia Weber at the beach, one of her favorite places.
In my teens, there was a great deal of turbulence in my family. I became my mother’s counselor and a caretaker for my younger siblings. I encouraged her to go back to work after unexpected circumstances dramatically changed our lives at home. It was then that I started to listen to her story, her dreams, and her intentions for her life rather than focus on her role in ours. I never realized how her not having a mother as a teenager had affected her ability to mother so many teenagers. I only saw what I needed and what she sometimes was unable to give. At 52, she returned to work as a Ward Clerk at Southside Hospital, where her social skills and affability made her well-known among the staff. At night, after a long day, she would butter some saltines and microwave a half grapefruit with honey on top as a treat with her tea. In my late 20s, she taught me how to play golf. Over 35 years later, I still enjoy it. I recall how patient my mother was when I hit into the reeds or the water. “No one is looking. Drop one in the fairway and try again.” My mother gave much credence to diligent effort and hard work. She believed that trying your best would always yield a positive outcome. The gifts presented to my mother on Mother’s Day changed a lot over the years. As children, each of us made homemade cards. Sometimes, we would wrap up some chocolate. A simple homemade craft was her favorite gift. My father always brought my mother a corsage and made a special dinner on Mother’s Day. As a teen, I started planting her begonias each Mother’s Day.
In the summer of 2000, my mother came to live in an assisted living facility in Connecticut. My husband Paul and I were her “go-to” people. Her transition from the home she lived in for 56 years went well until macular degeneration and yet another unexpected death of one of her children exposed a weariness she could not escape, and she began to fail. She returned to Long Island to be near her people and several of my siblings who lived there. On Mother’s Day 2007, all of my siblings went to our hometown course, Timber Point Country Club, and played a round in her honor. On the back nine of the Blue Course, each of us hit a golf ball scribbled with a message into the ocean. After the round, we visited her at the hospital. I gave her a clay sunflower pin I had made with my art club students. She asked me to put it on her hospital gown. She was surrounded by her children. Four days later, she passed away. My mother’s influence on my life has evolved over the years. I appreciate how special she was and my relationship with her. I see her humanity and can accept her limitations. When I wake up complaining of aches and pains, I can laugh remembering her doing her stretches and complaining about her knees. Her creativity, her love of learning, of baking, of puzzles, and the outdoors all live within me. She was a good woman who was the best mother she could be. This Mother’s Day I will celebrate all that was and continues to be in my life and the life of my siblings.
26
LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Calendar for the Week of May 8, 2025
For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website, www.zip06.com.
THURSDAY, MAY 8 Chamber Connect Morning Networking: 8:30 to 10 a.m. The Wise Apothecary, inside the Shops of Madison Earth Care, 1250 Durham Rd. Presented by herbalist Melissa Blundon. Hosted by the Madison Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by Olando and Son Painting. For info, call the chamber at 203-245-7394 or visit madisonct.com.
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. Last date: Friday, May 23. Attendees may try out a particular writing style and attend any date they prefer. For info or to register (required), call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. Friday Movie Matinee: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
and an ambulance. Attendees can meet firefighters, police officers, emergency response personnel, and police service K9s. Free hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be served to the first 300 guests. The first hour of the event will be horn- and siren-free to accommodate noise-sensitive guests. For info, email EMD@deepriverct.us or visit deepriverfd.com. Killingworth Historical Society Tag Sale and Killingworth Evergreen Garden Club Annual Sale: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Parmelee Farm, 465 Rte. 81, Killingworth. Features as tools, dishes, toys, collectables, jewelry, homemade goodies from Killingworth kitchens, and more. Rain or shine. For info, visit allthingskillingworth.com/events.
Author Event: Charlie Young: 6 to 7 p.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. Book: Houdini’s Last Handcuffs. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killing- Annual Killingworth Volunteer Fire Company AuxilIntroduction to Family Research and Genealogy: worthlibrary.org. iary Town-Wide Tag Sale: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Killingworth 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Covers best practices Firehouse, 333 Rte. 81 and town-wide. Rain or shine. Free for the overall genealogy research process, including free Swing Dance Party: 7 to 9 p.m. First Congregational maps of registered tag sale locations available at the online tools, primary sources, and lesser known sources. Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Features the Killingworth Firehouse. For info, email rumblinRegistration is required. For info or to register (required), Survivors Swing Band, an open dance floor, beverage, grock@sbcglobal.net or visit facecall the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexliand desserts. Cost: $25/person suggested entry donabook.com/KVFCAuxiliary. brary.org. tion. Proceeds benefit the Appalachia Service Project Trip. For info, contact 203-245-2739, ext. 14, or mainofVRHS Robotics Program: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 Your Edible Landscape: 6 to 7 p.m. Chester Meeting fice@fccmadison.org. West Ave. For ages 10 to 18. Participants can get up close House, 4 Liberty St. Presented by The 3 Foragers. Sponand personal with some robots. Led by the Human Error, sored by the Friends of the Chester Public Library. For Row the River Cocktails and Crew Fundraiser: 7 to the Valley Regional High School (VRHS) Robotics Team. info or to register, contact the library at 860-526-0018 or 9:30 p.m. Essex Yacht Club, 13 Novelty Ln. Features hors For info or to register (required), call the library at 860Library@chesterct.org or visit chesterctlibrary.com. d’oeuvres, open bar, raffles, and a silent auction. Hosted 767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. by the Valley Regional High School/Old Saybrook High Author Event: Jessica Anya Blau: 6:30 p.m. Julia BookSchool Booster Club. Tickets: $75. Service fees apply. Pro- Frames in Film: My National Gallery London: 1 p.m. The sellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Shopgirls: A ceeds benefit the Valley Regional and Old Saybrook high Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Novel. For info, call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. schools combined crew team. For info or tickets, visit vrh- Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen, in collaborascrew.org/crew-spring-fundraiser. tion with the Florence Griswold Museum. Running time: Creative Container Design: 6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull 90 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features a demon- Concert by SoulShine (Tribute to Allman Brothers thekate.org. stration of new ways to plant using containers. Presented Band): 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Cenby Karla A. Dalley, landscape designer and columnist for ter, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call Photo Editing Apps with Your iPhone: 2 p.m. Essex West Hartford Magazine. Hosted by the Clinton Arbor 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Library, 33 West Ave. Second in a two-part series on how Garden Club. For info, contact 860-669-2342 or visit to take better pictures with a smart phone. Presented by events.hchlibrary.org. photographer Fred Verillo. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 SATURDAY, MAY 10 Concert by Jonatha Brooke: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine or visit youressexlibrary.org. Annual May Garden Market: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. WestHepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook Town Hall, 866 Boston Post Rd. Hosted by the brook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit Great Gatsby Night: 6 to 9 p.m. BarrelHouse, 176 Rte. 81, Westbrook Garden Club. Features vegetable plants, thekate.org. Killingworth. Features live music, Gatsby-inspired props, hanging baskets, planters, perennials, herbs and plants photo opportunities, and more. In celebration of the grown by members, several vendors, a food truck, and 100th anniversary of the publication of the book, The more. For info, email westbrookgardenFRIDAY, MAY 9 Great Gatsby. Hosted by the Friends of the Killingworth clubct@yahoo.com. Library. Free admission. Dressing up in 1920s attire is Women in Business Luncheon: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sayencouraged but not required. For info, call 860-663-2000 brook Point Resort and Marina, 2 Bridge St., Old SayInaugural Public Safety Appreciation and Touch-aor visit killingworthlibrary.org. brook. Features a talk by professional speaker and coach Truck Event: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Deep River Fire DepartMary Cheyne on "Multiply Your Business Success Using ment, 57 Union St. Co-hosted by the Deep River DepartPublic Speaking, Even Online." Cost: $25 for members, ment of Emergency Management and Deep River Fire $35 for nonmembers. Includes lunch. For info or to regis- Department. Features police boats, ATVs, cruisers, crime ter, visit oldsaybrookchamber.com/events. See page 28 scene vehicles, emergency response vehicles, firetrucks,
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Photo by T. Charles Erickson
The nurse (Annmarie Kelly) and Carmen Berkeley (Juliet).
Photo by T. Charles Erickson
A strength of the production is the swordplay by fight director Ted Hewlett. It is realistic and makes good use of the big stage.
Some Will Be Disappointed with Hartford Stage’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ By Karen Isaacs Special to Living
Romeo & Juliet, now at Hartford Stage through Sunday, May 18, may seem like a straightforward play to produce. For many people, it is their first exposure to Shakespeare. But for a director, minefields are everywhere. Unfortunately, Hartford Stage Artistic Director Melia Bensussen tripped on a few. You see the set as you enter the theater, with mottled paint in orange, purple, and red covering the floors and walls. Lighting effects (by Dan Kotlowitz) will modulate the colors throughout the play. On one side are three leaning arches, and on the right side is a building, also askew. Everything in the set is leaning – it looks like an earthquake has hit. Are Bensussen and scenic designers Christopher and Justin Swader implying that Verona is on the verge of collapse? Or perhaps the world is falling. Certainly, the worlds of the two warring factions – the Capulets and the Montagues are collapsing. The program notes indicate that the show is set, not in Italy, but in Mexico in the mid-19th century. The opening party, where Romeo first sees Juliet, is supposedly on the Day of the Dead. Until you read the program notes, you may not recognize this. The costumes by Fabian Fidel Aguilar may not look Elizabethan or Renaissance, but you might not see them as Mexican. A major problem that every director faces is casting. If we look at the text,
Photo by T. Charles Erickson
Friar Lawrence in red (Carman Lacivta), Niall Cunningham (Romeo), and Carmen Berkeley (Juliet).
Juliet is not yet 14; her mother and the nurse are both about 30. We might assume the father is not much older. Yet in every production I’ve seen, these characters are decidedly older. Juliet’s father is gray, and her mother is mature. The same goes for Romeo: it is likely his parents are in their 30s but look much older. Then there is the problem of finding actors for the two leading roles who are experienced enough to handle them, yet still look younger than their age. In this
case, Romeo (Niall Cunningham) could be in his late teens, but Juliet (Carmen Berkeley) could never pass for 14, though she makes a valiant effort to act as if she is in her early adolescence. One of the most memorable productions of the play that I’ve seen was at Hartford Stage in 1995. It was directed by Mark Lamos and starred Calista Flockhart and Robert Petkoff as the lovers. Flockhart looked like a young teen. Overall, this production is a sturdy,
competent one. For anyone who has not seen Romeo and Juliet, it conveys the story effectively. You may not walk out of the theater feeling you have seen an outstanding production, but you also will not be disappointed. Bensussen seems to have emphasized the humor in the piece. While usually only the nurse (a nursemaid/governess) is played as humorous, in this production, several other characters, including Mercutio (Alejandra Escalante), get laughs. Cunningham, like Romeo, seems to lack ardor at times. His performance wasn’t helped by under-micing or a lack of vocal strength. Often, when his back was turned, his words were difficult to hear. Yet, with his slim build, he looked the part. Juliet (Berkeley), on the other hand, was extremely outgoing. Both Cunningham and Berkeley overdid the gestures. Surprisingly, Lord Montague (Michael Samuel Kaplan) becomes lost in this production; even the stronger character, Lord Capulet (Gerardo Rodriguez), seems milder than usual. Bensussen cast a woman, Emily Bosco, as Prince Escalus, the ruler of Verona. In the opening scene, when the Prince warns the warring youth to desist, it lacked the authority and sternness needed. There are other moments when you can question Bensussen’s decisions. However, a strength of the production is the swordplay by fight director Ted Hewlett. It is realistic and makes good use of the big stage. You can contact HartfordStage.org for tickets or information.
28 Continued from page 26 Sweet Saturday Nights: Paul Loether and Sue Mead (Tribute to Bill Staines and David Mallett): 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. Concert by Jimmy Webb: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Patrons may purchase an add-on pass for a meet-and-greet at 9:30 p.m. A ticket to the show is required for the meetand-greet pass. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
SUNDAY, MAY 11 Mother's Day Tea: Noon to 2 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $49.95 plus tax and gratuity. For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860-399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.
MONDAY, MAY 12 Movie Matinee: 10 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free and open to all. No registration is needed. For info, including the movie title, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the calendar link at youressexlibrary.org. Art for All: Painting with Acrylics: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. Presented by Helen Hadley, a retiree who paints and donates proceeds of her sales to breast cancer research. For adults and seniors. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING Clinton. For ages 6 to 14. Hosted by the Clinton Parks and Recreation. Open to Clinton residents and nonresidents. Cost: $40. For info or to register (required), contact 203464-8447 or marysculinaryclassesllc@gmail.com, or visit the class schedule link at marysculinaryclassesllc.com. Cookbook Club: 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Book: Come Hungry: Salads, Meals, and Sweets for People Who Live to Eat by Melissa Ben-Ishay. Attendees make a dish of their choosing from a recipe in the cookbook and bring it to the meeting. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-3996422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org. Spring 2025 Business Fundamentals Session: Marketing and Sales Basics: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Third of five sessions. Participants are encouraged to attend all five modules but may attend any single session. Free. Hosted by SCORE Southeastern Connecticut Chapter. Series sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct/local-workshops. Pickin’ Party: 6 to 8 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door. For info, call 860-434-1961 or visit danstevens.net. Open Rehearsal: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main St. Hosted by the string ensemble of the Community Music School (CMS). The ensemble is intergenerational, with members from ages 13 to 80. Repertoire includes classical, contemporary, traditional fiddle music, and movie and show tunes, as well as music arranged specifically for the group. Guests can remain after the rehearsal to speak to the conductor and members. New members are welcome. For info, call CMS at 860-575-2797. Getting Paid to Talk: An Introduction to Voice Over Work: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Via Zoom. Cost: $30. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.
Concert by Justin Howl: 7 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Tickets: $15. Refreshments are available for purchase. For tickets, text Gail at 860227-5003 with names, number of seats, and concert date. Author Event: James Patterson: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Book: The For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org/events. #1 Dad Book: Be the Best Dad You Can Be in 1 Hour. Cost: Starring Katharine Hepburn: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hep- $30, includes admission for one attendee and a copy of the book. Sponsored by R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston burn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), call Features a film screening and Q&A with filmmakers 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. David Heeley and Joan Kramer in celebration of Hepburn's birthday. Free admission but tickets are required Concert by Rickie Lee Jones: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine while supplies last (max two per person). For info, call Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Say860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org brook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
a weather-related cancellation. For info or reservations (required), call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org. Chatfield Hollow Lecture and Walk: 10:30 a.m. Oak Lodge Nature Center, Chatfield Hollow State Park, 381 Rte. 80, Killingworth. Led by Jim Powers. Bring a picnic lunch. Sponsored by Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to register (required), contact SVCT at 203-747-5939 or info@shorelinevillagect.org. Hollywood Gems: The Old Man and the Sea: 1 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. Chamber on Tap: Speed Networking and Business Matchmaking: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Myrcene Ale Co., 39 Ragged Rock Rd., Old Saybrook. Hosted by the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for nonmembers. Includes one beverage (beer or wine). For info or to register, visit the oldsaybrookchamber.com. Acoustic Artists Story Teller Series: Crows in the Meadow: 6 to 7:45 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For participants of all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. For info or to register (required), visit actonlibrary.org/events. America's Cassandra: Connie Converse at 100: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Howard Fishman, author of To Anyone Who Ever Asks: The Life, Music, and Mystery of Connie Converse. Part of the Topically Ted series, in honor of Madison resident Ted Mallory. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org. On Writing a Brilliant, Dark, and Diabolical Thriller with Author Liann Zhang: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: Julie Chan is Dead. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. On Writing a Brilliant, Dark, and Diabolical Thriller with Author Liann Zhang: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: Julie Chan is Dead. Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-7671560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib. Concert by the Glenn Miller Orchestra: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
TUESDAY, MAY 13 Tuesday Book Discussion: 1 to 2 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Book: The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store: A Novel by James McBride. Newcomers welcome. Copies of the book are available at the library. For info, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. Mary’s Culinary Class: Broccoli and Cavatelli and Spring Chex: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Indian River Recreation Complex Multipurpose Room, 201 Killingworth Tpke.,
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
THURSDAY, MAY 15
Homeschool Day: Spring Onrust Voyage: 10 a.m. to noon. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Part of Homeschool Days, a drop-off program for homeschool learners ages 6 to 12 and their families to learn about the history and natural environment of the Connecticut River through hands-on activities. Refunds will be given with a 24-hour notice. Payment will be refunded in the event of
Opening Day for Tea at Five: 2 p.m. Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. Runs through Sunday, June 8. Other showtimes available. For info, call 860-767-7318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.org. See page 33
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Photo courtesy of the Ivoryton Playhouse
Carlyn Connolly at Katharine Hepburn's former Fenwick estate.
Ivoryton Playhouse Spotlights Katharine Hepburn in ‘Tea at Five’ The second production in Ivoryton Playhouse’s 2025 season offers an intimate look at a Hollywood icon with local roots. Tea at Five, a solo show about the life of Katharine Hepburn, begins previews May 15 and opens May 16, running through June 8. Before Hepburn became a household name and record-breaking Oscar winner, she was a bold young talent performing in places like the Ivoryton Playhouse—just miles from the Fenwick home where she later spent her most private days. In Tea at Five, audiences are invited into that sunroom to witness Hepburn reflect on her life, career, and legacy. This production paints a vivid portrait of a woman who defied Hollywood norms, championed independence, and stayed true to herself through triumph and heartbreak. Equal parts sharp, moving, and charming, Tea at Five offers a fresh look at one of America’s most legendary women. Playing Hepburn is returning favorite Carlyn Connolly, a New York-based performer who wowed Ivoryton audiences in The Great Gatsby (2022) and Cabaret (2019). Connolly is also a classically trained vocalist, accomplished entrepreneur, and founding member of the musical trio Always Andrews: A Tribute to the Andrews Sisters. She brings both strength and nuance to the role, capturing Hepburn’s essence with uncanny authenticity.
Photo courtesy of the Branford Land Trust
The Branford Land Trust will host two spring bird walks on Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, beginning at 9 a.m.
Annual Mother’s Day Weekend Bird Walks Planned Press Release from the Branford Land Trust
Photo courtesy of the Ivoryton Playhouse
Carlyn Connolly as Katharine Hepburn.
“Staging this show here—where Hepburn herself once performed—feels incredibly meaningful,” said Jacqueline Hubbard, Ivoryton’s executive director and the director of Tea at Five. “It’s a thrilling glimpse into some of the history of our community.” Performances will be held on Wednesdays at 2 p.m.; Thursdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at ivorytonplayhouse.org or through the box office at 860-767-7318. With strong early buzz and limited seating, advance reservations are recommended.
The Branford Land Trust will host two spring bird walks on Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, beginning at 9 a.m. Local birder Chris Woerner will lead the popular walks along the Stony Creek Trolley Trail and into the Land Trust’s Vedder property. Woerner, a longtime Stony Creek resident, has been birding for decades both locally and internationally in South America, Europe, and Asia. He enjoys sharing his extensive knowledge with young and old alike and will help participants identify birds by sight and call. Participants will meet in Stony Creek at the far end of West Point Road, across from the Willoughby Wallace Library. Attendees may choose the day that best fits their schedule, or attend both days, as different species are often spotted each day. Binoculars are recommended, though a
limited number will be available. The walk includes both flat and hilly sections with rocky, uneven terrain. All ages are welcome, but no dogs are allowed. The event will be held rain or shine unless weather is dangerous. For updates, visit the Branford Land Trust’s website or Facebook page at www.facebook.com/branfordlandtrustCT. The event is free and open to the public. Participants should dress appropriately and wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes. Bring water. For more information, contact info@branfordlandtrust.org. The Branford Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, accredited by the Land Trust Alliance, and was established in 1967 to protect Branford’s open space and natural resources. Run by volunteers and supported by member families and businesses, the Land Trust manages and protects more than 1,000 acres in over 130 parcels and holds conservation easements on another 400 acres in Branford.
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MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING
Horoscopes
Crossword
For the week of May 8 - May 14 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20
LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23
Aries, you soon find yourself pushing forward with great determination. Your drive is unstoppable, but tread carefully and respectfully in the pursuit of greatness.
Libra, the spotlight is on you for the time being. You are feeling more confident and ready to take charge of your destiny. Personal growth may come by way of a job promotion.
TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21
SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22
Introspection is paramount right now, Taurus. You may find yourself reflecting on your values, goals and personal growth. This week there are chances to change.
Scorpio, you may be drawn to more quiet, intimate moments with your partner this week. This is a great time for reflection and connection for the both of you.
GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21
SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21
Gemini, right now is a good time to collaborate with others, whether at work or in personal projects. Use any time this week to your advantage to attend social events.
Sagittarius, expect to meet new people or form bonds with others who share similar interests and goals this week. Community-based projects may draw your attention.
CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22
CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20
Put your long-term goals in focus this week, Cancer. Start thinking about where you would like your career to go. You’ll certainly feel driven to make progress.
This week the focus will be on your career, Capricorn. You’ll feel more motivated than ever to achieve your goals, but it will take a lot of hard work to get there.
LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23
AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18
Adventure is the name of the game for you right now, Leo. Whether it is travel, higher learning or other new experiences, you just may soon break free of your routine.
Aquarius, you might feel more connected to your spiritual side right now and want to seek knowledge or inspiration in areas like philosophy. Take every opportunity to learn and grow.
VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22
PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20
This is a week when practicality and organization will be your friends, Virgo. You will likely feel a need to get things in order. If you have any outstanding debts, tackle them now.
Pisces, now is a good time to focus on your financial situation and make some changes for your security and personal growth. Your intuition will guide you.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
Crossword solution for May 1, 2025
MAY 8 Enrique Iglesias, Singer (50) MAY 9 Mary Mouser, Actress (29) MAY 10 Bono, Singer (65) MAY 11 Sabrina Carpenter, Singer (26)
MAY 12 Tony Hawk, Skateboarder (57) MAY 13 Morgan Wallen, Singer (32) MAY 14 Mark Zuckerberg, Entrepreneur (41)
CLUES ACROSS 1. Herring-like fish 5. Perform on stage 8. Soda 11. Small growth 13. In support of 14. Step taken when walking 15. Hollyhocks 16. Returned material authorization (abbr.) 17. Feel pain 18. San Diego ballplayer 20. Inches per minute (abbr.) 21. Fat from a pig’s abdomen 22. Create again 25. Honors once more 30. Thin coating of gold 31. Welsh river 32. Japanese novelist Mizumura 33. Husks of corn 38. Green vegetable 41. Showing guilt 43. Soldier 45. Photographers 48. Language spoken in Nigeria 49. Mimic 50. Expressed pleasure 55. Ancient Greek sophist 56. Beverage container 57. Night monkey genus 59. Lace bugs 60. Hogshead (abbr.) 61. Frameworks 62. Keyboard key 63. Greek goddess of the dawn 64. Influential Korean independence figure
CLUES DOWN 1. A place to unwind 2. Helped (archaic) 3. Razorbill genus 4. Bleached 5. Continent 6. Fruit preserved in syrup 7. Impediment to one’s freedom 8. Nocturnal rodents 9. Earthy pigment 10. Relieved oneself 12. Golf score 14. Tech hub __ Alto 19. Sportscaster Andrews 23. Records electric currents 24. Popular Hitchcock film 25. Revolutions per minute 26. NY Giants legend 27. Sports radio host Patrick 28. When you hope to get somewhere 29. French seaport 34. Thai river 35. Rocker’s accessory 36. Extra charge 37. Influential American president 39. Pain in the head 40. Great Plains people 41. Consumed 42. Soluble ribonucleic acid 44. Improves 45. Secret clique 46. Behind the stern of a ship 47. Dough made from corn flour 48. Fallow deer 51. Swiss river 52. Grayish white 53. Engrave 54. College’s Blue Devils 58. Midway between south and southeast
Word Search
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle. SAFE BUILD WORD SEARCH ANCHOR APRON BEAM BOARD CAULKING CIRCUIT BREAKER COLUMN CONCRETE CONDUIT DISCONNECT DRYWALL DUCTS ELECTRICIAN FIRE RATED FLASHING FOUNDATION FRAMING GRADE GROUND WIRE INSULATION JOIST PANEL PLANS TRUSSES
Word Scramble
Word Scramble solution for May 1, 2025: THEME
Word Search solution for May 1, 2025
32
MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING
Carol Lowbeer, Dreaming of Pink Blossoms, fine art photograph on metal
Linda McCarthy, Teardrop on Roses, oil
Nature Up Close at Spectrum Press Release from Spectrum Art Gallery
Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisans Store in Centerbrook invites the public to explore the beauty of the natural world through its newest exhibit, Nature Up Close, opening Friday, May 16. As summer approaches, the show celebrates the details of blooming gardens, towering trees, and the intricate lives of insects that
come alive with the season. Nature Up Close presents original paintings, sculpture, mixed media, and photography by both established and emerging artists who offer intimate perspectives on the world around us. An opening reception will be held Friday, May 16, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., with fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments available throughout the evening. The cel-
Maryann Flick, Butterflies Flutter, Stained Glass
ebration continues during the Open House Weekend on Saturday, May 17, from 1 to 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 18, from 1 to 5 p.m. The exhibit will remain on view through July 6. In addition to the exhibit, the Spectrum Artisans Store features a wide variety of new handmade items including pottery, glass, fiber art, home décor, jewelry, clothing, accessories, children’s books, and toys.
Spectrum Art Gallery is located at 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. Gallery and store hours are Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information about exhibits, classes, workshops, and summer camps for preteens and teens, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.
Beth Terhaar, Bursting Flower of Blues & Greens Pendant, polymer clay
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Resonate and Relate with an Open Rehearsal Press Release from the Community Music School
The String Ensemble of the Community Music School will hold an open rehearsal on May 13, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main Street. The ensemble is intergenerational, with members ranging in age from 13 to 80 who play violin, viola, cello, or string bass at an intermediate to advanced level. The group currently includes 35 musicians. Rehearsals are held Tuesday evenings from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Essex Town Hall. Repertoire includes classical, contemporary, traditional fiddle music, and movie and show tunes, as well as pieces arranged specifically for the ensemble. Formed in 2001, the group is directed by Martha Herrle. “Making music by yourself is satisfying in its own way, but making music with other people is magic,” Herrle said. “The String Ensemble, over the past 25 years, has been the place where I have been able to share the great joy of music-making with people from all backgrounds and all ages, many of whom have become my dearest friends.” The event offers the chance to witness musicmaking across generations, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and learn more about the program. All are welcome to attend and to stay afterward to speak with the conductor and ensemble members. New members are always welcome. For more information, call the Community Music School at 860-575-2797. Continued from page 28 Stresses on the Neurotypical Sibling: Autism Spectrum/High High-Functioning Autism (AS/HFA) Individual’s Hobbies and Obsessions: 12:30 to 2 p.m. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St. A second session from 6:30 to 8 p.m. also takes place via Zoom. Part of the monthly support group meetings for parents and grandparents of children diagnosed with Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder/Asperger Syndrome. Free and open to residents of Old Saybrook and surrounding towns. For info, or to register, call OSYFS at 860-395-3190 or email counselor Joanne Baker Deal at joannebakerdeal@gmail.com. Container Gardening: Beyond Annuals: 4:30 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Features a talk and a root-pruning demonstration. Presented by Renee Marsh, owner of A Simpler Place. Part of the Westbrook Garden Club monthly programs for 2025. For info, email westbrookgardenclubct@yahoo.com. Spring 2025 Business Fundamentals Session: Pricing and Managing Money: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Fourth of five sessions. Participants are encouraged to attend all five modules but may attend any single session. Free. Hosted by SCORE Southeastern Connecticut Chapter. Series sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct/local-workshops.
Photo courtesy of the Community Music School
The String Ensemble of the Community Music School will hold an open rehearsal on May 13, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Centerbrook Meeting House.
Mystery Book Club: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Book: The Other Half: A Novel by Charlotte Vassell. Newcomers welcome. Copies of the book are available at the library. For info, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. Shoreline Sailing Club Meeting: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. For active singles 35 and over. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Cost: free for members and firsttime guests, $10 for others. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.
Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main St., Centerbrook. Features the work of established and emerging artists in abstract and representational painting, mixed media, photography, and more. The exhibit runs through Sunday, July 6. For info, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.
SATURDAY, MAY 17
Race To Graduation: 6:45 a.m. Madison Town Green. Features a 5K and kids fun run. Race day check in 6:45 a.m., kids fun run starts 7:45 a.m., 5K run begins 8 a.m. Concert by Paula Cole: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cost: $35 for 5K run, $5 for the kids run. Service fees Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info apply. Proceeds benefit Night in Hand, the post-graduation celebration for the Daniel Hand High School class of or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. 2025. For info or to sign up, visit runsignup.com/ Race/CT/Madison/RunToGraduation.
FRIDAY, MAY 16 Concert by Completely Unchained (Tribute to Van Halen): 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.
FRIDAY, MAY 16 THOUGH SUNDAY, MAY 18 Opening Reception for Nature Up Close and Open House: Friday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday, 1 to 6 p.m.;
Old Saybrook Rotary Club Food Drive: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Four locations: Stop & Shop, 665 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook; BIG Y, 22 Spencer Plain Rd., Old Saybrook; Westbrook Town Green; and the Old Lyme Fire Department, 69 Lyme St. Members of the Old Saybrook Rotary will collect nonperishable food items, toiletries, and other paper products. Monetary donations will also be accepted. For info, contact Joan Winters at 86-861-8811 or wj.winters.com, or visit osrotary.org. See page 36
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35
Expressive Art and Writing Workshop at Dudley Farm Press Release from Amy J. Barry
A new Expressive Art and Writing Workshop will be held at the Dudley Farm Museum this spring, offering adults a chance to recharge their creativity in a supportive group setting. Led by writer and expressive arts educator Amy J. Barry, the workshop runs on four consecutive Wednesdays, May 21 through June 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. Barry will guide participants through imaginative writing and drawing exercises using intuitive, image-based prompts inspired by the farm’s natural surroundings, historical items in the 19th-century farmhouse, and art and artifacts in the Quinnipiac Dawnland Museum. No previous writing or drawing experience is necessary. Sessions will take place in the yellow Munger Barn at Dudley Farm, located at the corner of Routes 77 and 80 in North Guilford. The cost for the four-week workshop is $100, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the nonprofit Historic Dudley Farm. Space is limited. To reserve a spot, mail a check made out to the Dudley Foundation to Dudley Farm Museum, 2351 Durham Road, Guilford, CT 06437 by May 12, or register online at dudleyfarm.com. Barry earned a certificate in Expressive Arts from Salve Regina University in 2010 and has since led workshops throughout
Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center Photo courtesy of Amy J. Barry
Amy J. Barry will lead a new Expressive Art and Writing Workshop will be held at the Dudley Farm Museum this spring.
The Guilford Craft Expo marks its 68th year as one of New England's premier craft shows. Organized by the Guilford Art Center.
Guilford Craft Expo 2025 Celebrates Artistry and Community
the Connecticut shoreline. She is an award-winning journalist, columnist, and poet, and the author of several children’s books, including A Child’s Grief Journey and, most recently, A Cat All His Own Press Release from the Guilford Art Center (2024). The Guilford Craft Expo returns to the For more information about the instrucGuilford Green July 18 to 20 for its annual tor, visit www.aimwrite-ct.net. celebration of fine craftsmanship, creativity, and community spirit. Set against the historic backdrop of the town green, the 2025 event will showcase an array of exceptional traditional and contemporary work by American artists and makers. Now in its 68th year, the Guilford Craft Expo is one of New England’s premier craft shows. Organized by the Guilford Art Center, the expo draws thousands of visitors each year and offers a rare opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind handcrafts while supporting the arts. This year’s expo will feature more than 170 nationally recognized artists and makers across a wide range of mediums, including pottery, glass, leather, jewelry, clothing, fiber art, metal, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, and gourmet food and specialties. “We’re thrilled to highlight the exceptional talent of both local and national artists, offering something meaningful for seasoned collectors and first-time visitors alike,” said Maureen Belden, executive director of Guilford Art Center. “Craft Photo courtesy of Amy J. Barry Expo is not only a celebration of creativity — it’s our largest fundraiser, playing a Collage by a student in Expressive Arts Workshop.
vital role in supporting the educational and community programs we offer yearround.” Visitors will enjoy a vibrant atmosphere that includes live music, food trucks, a Family Art Tent for young guests, and a silent auction featuring donated work from exhibitors. Guilford Craft Expo 2025 will take place Friday, July 18, and Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $11 for adults, $9 for seniors (65+), and free for Guilford Art Center members, children 16 and under, and active military personnel. A multi-day ticket is available for $15. The event is held outdoors on the Guilford Green, rain or shine, with the main entrance at 33 Whitfield Street, Guilford. Free parking and shuttle service are available from the commuter lots at Adams Middle School on Route 77 (233 Church Street) off I-95 Exit 58. On-site parking is available for a fee at St. George’s Church, 33 Whitfield Street, and there is also free street parking available throughout the town. For more information and to stay up to date on artist announcements, visit www.guilfordartcenter.org or www.artrider.com.
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MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING
NHSO Welcomes Special Guest Video Game Music Band DiscoCactus Press Release from the New Haven Symphony Orchestra
The New Haven Symphony Orchestra (NHSO) will take audiences on a nostalgic, high-energy adventure with a weekend of live video game music in collaboration with genre-bending band DiscoCactus at Let’s Play! Video Game Music Reimagined. Led by Principal Pops Conductor Chelsea Tipton II, performances will take place Saturday, May 31, at Southern Connecticut State University’s Lyman Center for the Performing Arts, and Sunday, June 1, at Shelton High School. Both concerts begin at 3 p.m., with a special “Cosplay Hour” starting at 2 p.m. in each venue’s lobby, encouraging fans to gear up and show off their favorite video game character looks before the music begins. Blending the full force of a live orchestra with DiscoCactus’s electric, improvisational style, the performances will feature music from a wide range of gaming’s most beloved titles. Audiences can expect fresh takes on tracks from The Legend of Zelda, Minecraft, Hollow Knight, NieR, World of Warcraft, Elden Ring, Hades, and Undertale, plus a few surprises. In recent decades, video game music has evolved into one of the most dynamic and influential genres in contemporary composition, earning accolades from both the classical and pop music worlds. With this concert, the NHSO honors the artistic creativity and emotional storytelling that these soundtracks bring to players and listeners alike—now reimagined for the concert stage. DiscoCactus is a collective of composers,
Photo courtesy of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra
Video game music band DiscoCactus.
performers, and arrangers who reimagine video game soundtracks as high-energy, genre-blending performances. Founded in 2014, the group’s six core members are experienced game audio professionals and classically trained musicians who have worked on projects including Celeste, Destiny 2, Sid Meier’s Civilization VI, and Final Fantasy XV. Their live shows combine contemporary art music with dozens of pop styles, creating performances that are as imaginative as they are kinetic. Whether performing with full orchestra or on their own, DiscoCactus builds concerts that transcend genre and invite audiences into a vibrant, ever-shifting musical world. Learn more at discocactusmusic.com.
Continued from page 28 Old Saybrook Garden Club Annual Gardeners' Market: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Old Saybrook Town Green. Features member plants, zinnias, dwarf tomatoes, annuals, hanging baskets, houseplants, herbs, vegetables, baked goods, and more. Master gardeners will be available for advice. For info, visit old-saybrook-gardenclub.myshopify.com. SHEro Awards: 9:30 a.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Hosted by the Women & Family Life Center. For info, contact Emily Rorke at 203458-6699 or erorke@womenandfamilylife.org. Spring Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features handcrafted items and products made by local small businesses and artisans. Guests can also shop the library's book sale for gently-used and nearly-new paperback and hardcover books for adults and children. For info, visit events.hchlibrary.org.
“This project has been a dream of ours since we started the band,” said Doug Perry, vibraphone player with DiscoCactus who also frequently performs with the New Haven Symphony’s percussion section. “It’s a rare chance to merge two musical worlds we love: playing orchestral music and creating new, energetic takes on video game music with DiscoCactus. We’re excited to bring these soundtracks to life in a way that feels both authentic to the games and fresh for the concert hall.” Let’s Play! Video Game Music Reimagined will be performed Saturday, May 31, at 3 p.m. at the John C. Lyman Center for the Performing Arts at Southern Connecticut State University, and Sunday,
Cans for Cancer: Donation of Recyclable Cans and Plastic Bottles: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Clinton Fire Department, 35 E. Main St. Proceeds benefit the Clinton Rotary Cancer Relief Fund to help shoreline cancer victims with bills not covered by insurance. For info, call Sandy Allen at 860-883-5185. Chess Workshop: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. First in a three-part series. Features immersive instruction with a chess coach. Lessons will demonstrate tactics and strategies, and time will be allotted to allow for game play. Open to children, teens, and adults who are looking to improve their chess skills. For info or to register (required), call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com. Met in HD Live: Salome: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 195 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Met in HD Live: Salome: 1 p.m. Madison Cinemas, 761 Boston Post Rd. Running time: 135 minutes with no inter-
June 1, at 3 p.m. at Shelton High School. Featured performers include the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, Principal Pops Conductor Chelsea Tipton II, and DiscoCactus members Pete Bobinski (guitar), Sam Bobinski (bass), Laura Intravia (voice, flute, EWI), Doug Perry (drums, vibraphone, voice), Chris Pierorazio (drums), Matheus Garcia Souza (violin), and Ben Wallace (keyboard). Tickets start at $15. Tickets for youth under 18 are free with the purchase of an adult ticket. To purchase tickets, visit NewHavenSymphony.org or call 203-6931486 Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. This concert is sponsored by Southern Connecticut State University, the Valley Community Foundation, Frontier, and the New Haven Register. The fourth-oldest orchestra in America, the New Haven Symphony Orchestra’s dynamic performances and education programs inspire, delight, challenge, and connect communities across Connecticut. Led by Music Director Perry So, the NHSO’s innovative programming, dedication to the commission and performance of new works, and meaningful artistic and educational collaborations inspire audiences. Through the nationally acclaimed Harmony Fellowship program, as well as numerous award-winning education and community engagement programs, the Symphony strives to be a leader for racial equity in the arts. Learn more at NewHavenSymphony.org.
mission. Shoreline Opera Club will lead a 30-minute talkback after the broadcast. For info or tickets, call 203-2452456 or visit madisoncinemas2.com. Goodspeed Musicals Gala and Auction: 3 p.m. Smith Farm Gardens, 60 Smith Rd., East Haddam. Features animal trainer Bill Berloni as 2025 honoree for his dedication to the safety and protection of animals in the arts. For info or tickets, visit goodspeed.org. Sweet Saturday Nights: BlueBird (Bob Perfetto and Leigh Harrison): 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. 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.
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REAL ESTATE • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Real estate
ValleyCourier Courier Valley Thursday, May 8, 2025
A Sophisticated Downtown Madison Townhome Staff Report
5 Evarts Lane #5, Madison
Nestled in the heart of downtown Madison, this stunning townhouse features a freshly painted interior, offering the perfect blend of luxury and convenience.
Year Built:2003 Sq. Feet: 2,418 Acres: N/A Style: Townhouse Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 full, 1 half Price: $1,050,000
The beautifully designed kitchen boasts soaring 9-foot ceilings, a Sub-Zero refrigerator and an inviting eat-in space that overlooks a private outdoor patio.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Madison, this stunning townhouse features a freshly painted interior, offering the perfect blend of luxury and convenience. It’s just a short stroll from sandy beaches, the library, a cinema, a charming independent bookstore, and an array of shops and restaurants. The beautifully designed kitchen boasts soaring 9-foot ceilings, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, and an inviting eat-in space that overlooks a private outdoor patio. The main living and dining areas are highlighted by gleaming hardwood floors and a striking Mendota fireplace with a contemporary tile front, creating a warm and stylish ambiance. Upstairs, a cozy sitting room leads to two spacious bedrooms, including the primary suite with a massive walk-in closet, spalike bath with a whirlpool bathtub, and a standing shower. The second bedroom features vaulted ceilings. The laundry area is conveniently located on this level. A full, unfinished walk-up attic presents possibilities for additional living space. Plus, the option to purchase a second detached garage is also available. City water, natural gas and low condo fees of $459 a month make this condominium a wise choice! The condo comes with an attached garage. A second detached garage can be purchased separately. This home is being offered for sale by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties for $1,050,000. For more information or a showing, contact Sheila Tinn-Murphy at 203-915-7530.
The main living and dining areas are highlighted by gleaming hardwood floors and a striking Mendota fireplace with a contemporary tile front, creating a warm and stylish ambiance.
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MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • REAL ESTATE
Real Estate Transactions
17 Lookout Hill Road, Essex 4 bdrs, 4 bths. Full in-law suite An enchanting retreat atop a quiet, private cul-de-sac. New England charm with expansive vistas and modern comforts throughout. 1.51 acres Offered at $1,395,000
CHESTER
KILLINGWORTH
K I RS T E N A DA M S
172 Parker Hill Road: Ferdinand Almodovar to Sky Circle Homes LLC, $254,000 on April 17
Nothing Compares
203.500.4000 kadams@wpsir.com Unrivaled real estate service from the CT Shoreline to the CT River and beyond.
19 West Main Street: Michael W. Klemens to Steven and Susan Hollander, $1,363,500 on April 15
914 Boston Post Road Unit 2 : Nancy Olson Benn 2004 T and Nancy A. Olson to Pauline Bennett, $1,675,000 on April 17 9 Shorelands Drive: Mady Devel Iii LLC to Eliana V. and David J. Carlson, $2,025,000 on April 15
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23 Elm Street : Kristin L. Madden to Christopher Simoni, $360,000 on April 14 5 Merriwold Lane: Michael P Osborne RET and Carolyn P. Osborne to Michael Michaels, $235,000 on April 14
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48 North Main Street: William J. and Bo E. Jacaruso to Stuart C. Bennett and Jennie G. Summerall, $1,716,000 on April 15 12 Rachel Lane: Joseph J. Galluzzi to Julie South Liseo Lt and Julie S. Liseo, $675,000 on April 16
107 Ayers Point Road, Old Saybrook
$799,000
Enjoy the ease of one-floor living in a serene, private setting with this charming ranch style home nestled on a full acre just moments from the Connecticut River and the scenic Turtle Creek Preserveperfect for daily walks and enjoying nature. Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, this spacious residence features generously sized rooms, both formal and informal living spaces, and ample storage throughout.
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Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
MADISON
2621 Boston Post Road : Jeanne M. Cinotti to Joseph Boughton, $350,000 on April 17 18 Foxwood Road S: Ero Enterprises Inc to Sheldon Gayle, $712,000 on April 15 114 Landons Way: Donald J. and Lisa G. Rusconi to Yatrik D. Shah and Arpita Patel, $1,290,000 on April 17 30 Preble Drive: John Barbetti to Julia Judge and Nicholas Trombetta, $479,000 on April 14 Seaside Avenue: Scott T. and Barbara J. Macdowall to Sea Wall Properties LLC, $150,000 on April 17
BRANFORD
53 Brushy Plain Road Unit 8A : Shawn Ketchum to Susan Gargano, $184,000 on April 14 20 Flat Rock Road Ext: Estate of Patricia A. Patton and Thomas M. Patton to Jan and Whitney Prentice, $695,000 on April 17 15 Great Oaks: Susan E. Sheehan to OLD SAYBROOK Nancy L. Bormet, $172,500 on April 17 19 Lomartra Lane: Joann Delucia to 11 Chandler Street : Lori CookeBrian and Alexandria Cantore, $815,000 Marra and Morelle C. Marra to Mirra on April 17 LLC, $1,420,000 on April 15 155 North Ivy Street Unit 2: Bayshore Home Sales Inc to Anthony J. WESTBROOK Petruzzelli, $27,500 on April 17 15 Economy Drive Unit 6 : Vincent 16 Pine Orchard Road Unit 13: J. Ackerman to Matthew J. Anastasio, William G. Ahern to Elizabeth Padden, $165,000 on April 15 $100,000 on April 17 92 Grove Beach Road S: Iolanda A. 13 Tidelands: William G. Ahern to Sgroi to Ronald and Michelle Belcourt, Elizabeth Padden, $100,000 on April 17 $805,000 on April 15
CLINTON
NORTH BRANFORD
92 Chidsey Drive : Marcia E. Jara 12 Davis Farm Road : Bhunesh and and Ariel Y. Portilla to Cristofer Dipti Gandhi to Mckenzie L. and Guaman, $497,000 on April 14 Michael J. Lanouette, $670,000 on April 15 See page 39
39
REAL ESTATE • VALLEY COURIER • MAY 8, 2025
Real Estate Transactions
1446 Middletown Avenue: Justin Nerreau to Logan Adams and Kayla Walewski, $568,000 on April 17 936 Totoket Road: Carol C. and Michael T. Teixeira to Danielle Ezzo and Steven Konarski, $775,000 on April 17
Participation and Us Bank to John L. Rogers, $315,000 on April 10
EAST HAVEN
53 Cosey Beach Road: Bank TNa to Yongdeng Wang, $319,900 on April 16 143 Foxon Road: Luther A. and NORTH HAVEN Stacey Quattlebaum to Klever O. TapiaArichabala, $368,000 on April 14 14 Juniper Drive : Marianne P. Pearsall to Lisa Antonecchia, $560,000 7 Hobson Street: Jack C. and on April 15 Christina Lee to Felice and Anna Mottola, $395,000 on April 14 8 Locust Avenue: Michael A. Ruotolo to Sarah Brooks, $425,000 on 491 Silver Sands Road: Lanpro April 15 LLC to William Normand, $343,000 on Nettleton Avenue: Carol Ladutko to April 15 Andrew Ladutko, $440,000 on April 10 24 Stoddard Road: Manika LLC to Jennifer Mcnamara, $430,000 on April 66 Roarke Road: Jan A. and Paula R. Childs to Maryou Musallam, 15 $479,000 on April 14 55 Thompson Street Unit 4C: Craig Carofano to Nicole D. Morra, 14 Roger Avenue: Brian Axler and Teresa Dimatteo to Cody Mahon and $220,000 on April 14 Kaylee Wagner, $535,000 on April 15 24 Thorpe Street: Luis and Roxanne Oliveira to Sarafadeen and Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman Mariam Gbadamosi, $312,000 on April / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. 9 For past transactions, visit zip06.com/realestate. 66 Upper Street: Lsf9 Master
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6 Old County Road, Chester • Listed at $869,000 • Sold SUSAN A. MALAN Broker Associate CT & Licensed in RI o. 860.767.5011 • c. 617.645.4392 smalan@wpsir.com susanmalanrealtor susanmalan.williampitt.com Essex Brokerage: 13 Main Street, Essex
#1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN ESSEX 2019-2025 (ytd)* #1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY 2023 & 2024** #1 DOLLAR VOLUME IN ESSEX 2024*** DIAMOND AWARD WINNER 2020-2024**** *Source: SmartMLS, 1/1/19-4/29/25, total transactions by agent, Essex; all properties listed or sold by agent. **Source: SmartMLS, 1/1/23-12/31/24, total transactions by agent, Middlesex County; all properties listed or sold by agent. ***Source: SmartMLS, 1/1/24-12/31/24, total transactions by agent, Essex; all properties listed or sold by agent. ****Source: William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty 20202024 Awards Recognition, Essex Brokerage. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
40
MAY 8, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
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For appointments and information: 203-200-2328 Smilow Cancer Hospital – Waterford 230 Waterford Parkway South Waterford, CT 06385 SmilowCancerHospital.org