Valley Courier 05-29-25

May 29, 2025

Chester, Deep River, & Essex

Vol. XXV Iss. 22

DRES Students Celebrate Nature, Neighborhood

By Christian Maldonado

Deep River Elementary School’s fourth annual PTO Ice Cream Social offered more than just sweet treats this year. Held on the school playground May 21, the event also featured a clothing, book, and shoe swap — and a student-led transformation of the

school’s art room inspired by the local landscape.

The art project, titled “Be Inspired by the Place You Live,” was developed by art teacher Diana DeWolf-Carfi in collaboration with students in kindergarten through sixth grade. With help from their teacher, students painted the walls and crafted forest animals from papier-mâché, turning the art room into

a wooded habitat reminiscent of the Connecticut River and surrounding Deep River environment.

“We started by learning a little bit more about the river and the woods around Deep River,” said DeWolf-Carfi. “I was then able to provide them with the structure on how to

See DRES Students page 13

Wheels for the Brave

Top of the Standings

Zander Bubie, 14, and Essex Veterans Memorial Hall President Art Davies pose with a new D5 Ranger 6 electric cart on May 20 in Essex. Bubie raised funds to donate the six-passenger vehicle to assist his grandfather, Sam Riggio, and other local veterans in riding the town’s three-mile Memorial Day parade route. “They served our country; it’s now time for us to serve them,” said Bubie.

The Braves had a standout week in Week Four of the Deep River Horseshoe League, moving into first place in the standings...........................14

Tea at Five

An Insider’s Look at Ivoryton gives a glimpse inside Katharine

PhotobyLauraMatesky/ ValleyCourier

Hepburn’s life...............................................25

Kristi Poehlmann: She Has a Platform

By Rita Christopher

Courier Senior Correspondent

Kristi Poehlmann’s picture is in the clubhouse of the Essex Platform Tennis Club (EPTC), but you might not recognize it. She was eight years old at the time it was taken.

Even then, Kristi had game. She had started playing at the platform tennis club at the age of five. Her parents, Sal and Marie Sapia, were among EPTC’s founders in 1974.

Today, a grown-up Kristi is still involved with the club. In fact, she is the first woman to be its president.

Platform tennis, as its name makes clear, is played on an elevated wooden surface. The game is played year-round, and there are heaters under the playing floor to melt off ice.

The game is often called paddle tennis because of the rackets used.

There is one thing the game is

Person of the Week

not called: pickleball. At a recent interview, Kristi and longtime platform tennis player Kevin Joyce made that clear.

“They are completely different sports,” Joyce said.

Still, both sports use rackets, but of different kinds and with different balls. A platform tennis court is half the size of a regular tennis court, and it is surrounded by wire mesh. Balls can be played off the wire. Pickleball courts are approximately one-fourth the size of a regulation tennis court.

Kristi says that at one time, EPTC was, if not formally, then in practice, an all-male club. Now, however, some 40% of the members are female, and mixed doubles are a popular playing combi-

nation. In addition, she points out the club has many informal social occasions for members, including cookouts, potluck dinners, and Friday night get-togethers.

A person does not have to join the club to get a feel for the game. Rackets are provided for those who want to try the sport out a few times before committing.

“We want you to come and enjoy it,” Joyce said. “Of course, if you were still doing that after a year, we would probably ask you to join.”

Kristi herself tries to play five or six times a week.

“After a hard day, the stress, it is good to spend 90 minutes smacking the dickens out of a little yellow ball,” she says. “It’s a way to decompress.”

Krist’s days are spent as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) at Consulting Cardiologists, a practice in Glastonbury and Wallingford.

See Kristi page 7

Photo by Rita Christopher/Valley Courier

Kristi Poehlmann is the first woman to be president of the Essex Platform Tennis Club.

We offer a full service of transformation, from the site prep, to the delivery of water. Our talented team of craftsmen take pride in delivering you a complete package, without the pressures and time constraints of hiring outside contractors. Let us make your vision and dreams become a relaxing reality in your backyard.

Aquatic Team

Former Governor to Speak at Library’s New History Lecture Series

By Christian Maldonado

Staff Writer

The Essex Library will launch a new annual lecture series next month to honor longtime trustee Barry Fulford, who passed away in 2020. The Fulford History Lecture will debut on Saturday, June 8 at 4 p.m. with a talk by former Connecticut Governor and Essex resident Dannel P. Malloy.

The inaugural lecture, titled “Leadership, Legacy, and Lessons from Connecticut’s Capitol,” will focus on Malloy’s time in public office and his perspective on Connecticut politics. Malloy currently serves as chancellor of the University of Maine System.

“We knew that former Gov. Malloy is an Essex resident and patron of the Essex Library,” said Ann Thompson, Director of Adult Programming at the library. “He wants to talk about his history in Connecticut as governor and mayor of Stanford.”

ESSEX TOWN MEETINGS

Thursday, May 29

Semi-Q Committee

Tuesday, June 3

Planning and Zoning Commission

Thursday, June 5

Worksite Safety and Health Committee

Board of Selectmen Joint Boards of Education

NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-7674340, ext. 129, or visit the Essex town website www.essexct.gov to learn how to participate in the following meetings: : 8 a.m. : 7 p.m. : 7:45 a.m. : 5 p.m. : 6:30 p.m. Visit www.reg4.k12.ct.us for login details.

DEEP RIVER TOWN MEETINGS

The Fulford History Lecture Series is named for Barry Fulford, a dedicated library patron and member of the Board of Trustees, who died during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fulford left a $200,000 bequest to the library.

“Barry was such a great and tremendous reader…and we wanted to honor the generous bequest that he left for us in the best way possible,” Thompson said. “We are looking for people who have knowledge on the history of the beginning of the United States, and who can speak on how important Connecticut was to the beginning of our country.”

The series is intended to be held annually, featuring speakers with expertise in American and Connecticut history.

The June 8 lecture is free and open to the public. Registration is suggested, as space is limited. To RSVP, call 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. The Essex Library is located at 33 West Avenue.

Wednesday, June 4

Thursday, June 5

Monday, June 2

Tuesday, June 3

Monday, June 2

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: :

NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-526-6024 or visit the Deep River town website www.deepriverct.us to learn how to participate in the following meetings: : 7 p.m. : 7 p.m.

Tuesday, June 3 Wednesday, June 4 Thursday, June 5

Board of Fire Commissioners Community Health Committee : 7 p.m. : 6 p.m. : 6:30 p.m. Visit www.reg4.k12.ct.us for login details.

Obituaries

Obituary

James Dengler

Chester

James “Jim” Dengler ("Ding") passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, at Water’s Edge in Middletown. Jim was 80 years old and was a lifelong Chester resident. Born on June 7, 1944, Jim was the son of the late John H. Dengler and Emiglia Zanardi Dengler, of Chester. He is survived by two of his three siblings, Claudina Dengler Makuck (Zigmund) and David Dengler, both of Chester. He is predeceased by his sister, Ruth Dengler, and nephew Thomas Makuck. Jim was a graduate of Valley Regional High School class of 1962. A U.S. Vietnam veteran, Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army repairing damaged helicopters. Upon returning home, he worked many years at Uarco Industries and later at Silgan Plastics. Jim served as the Chester Hose Company

Obituary

Louis Lerner

Deep River

assistant chief in his early years. Jim leaves behind his nephew John Makuck (Lauri). He is also survived by three grandnieces, two grandnephews, and three great-grandnephews. Additionally, Jim leaves behind his best friend, cousin, and real estate partner James Zanardi. They enjoyed traveling to the Daytona 500 and attending horse races together.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Waters Edge, Middletown, for their superior care of Jim. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chester Hose Company, P.O. Box 214, Chester, CT.

A graveside service with the rendering of Military Honors was held on May 23 at Saint Joseph Cemetery, 48 Middlesex Avenue, Chester. To share a memory of Jim or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.

Contacting Valley Courier

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 ValleyCourier encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues.

Writers may submit letters as often as every two weeks. Letters must include the writer’s full name, street address, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters submitted under pseudonyms, anonymously, or through third parties will be declined. Letters must be written by the submitter. No more than four signees are permitted per letter.

Letters must be 300 words or fewer and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Letter writers may be asked to supply sources to corroborate information presented as fact in letters.

Civility is required. Letters with personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined.

For letters endorsing a political candidate, Shore Publishing will accept one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections to allow for candidate rebuttal.

Letters must be received and verbally confirmed by 5 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Publication is subject to approval by the editor.

Letter writers who knowingly violate this policy three times will be banned from submitting future letters to the editor.

Letters may be submitted at www.zip06.com or email to shoreletters@shorepublishing.com.

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

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.

Louis Joseph Lerner of Deep River, age 88, passed away on May 13, 2025, after several ongoing health issues. He was born in Queens, New York, on May 25, 1936. He was predeceased in death by his father, Joseph Lerner, and his mother, Johanna (Wachter) Lerner; as well as his siblings: Joseph, Frances, Edward, and Josephine. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Priscilla (Powers) Lerner of Deep River; his son Christopher and wife Krista of New Britain; his son Nicholas and wife Mara of New Canaan; and his grandchildren, Luke, Hannah, and Noah. He is also survived by his brother Donald and several nieces and nephews in Long Island and Florida.

Upon graduation from trade school in New York, he was employed by several

machine shops in both New York and Connecticut as a tool & die maker, including local area businesses such as Deep River Tool & Die, Chapco, the Cramer Company, and finally retiring from the Lee Company in Westbrook at age 65.

His skills working with small intricate parts carried over to his hobbies, which included building a 14-foot sailboat and carving wonderful shore birds. He also enjoyed traveling, skiing in Vermont, kayaking, biking, and summer days at Hammonassett Beach.

As per his wishes, there will be no calling hours. Burial will be in Deep River at the convenience of the family.

A special thank you is extended to his doctors, Jennifer Sutherland, Michael Farrell, and the oncology staff at Middlesex Health in Westbrook, for their caring and compassion. Donations in his name may be made to the Deep River Ambulance Association or the Deep River Fire Department.

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

SPONSORED CONTENT:

Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

While our press schedule often does not allow us to publish death notices in time to announce memorial services, readers can find obituaries posted to the Valley Courier website, www.zip06.com, five days a week as they arrive.

Stories and features denoted with the Shore Publishing “Sponsored” icon are sponsored by advertisers. Sponsored content is content created or commissioned by advertisers in collaboration with Shore Publishing’s marketing team. As with all advertising, sponsored content does not necessarily reflect the views of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing will ensure the treatment and design of Advertising and Sponsored Content is clearly differentiated from its editorial content.

Kristi Poehlmann: She Has a Platform

Continued from page 2

In addition to cardiac care, Kristi has special expertise in geriatric medicine and is an end-of-life nursing coach.

“It’s an honor to help people celebrate their lives, preserve dignity, die on their own terms, and present the information to help them make good decisions,” she says.

Kristi grew up in Essex and graduated from Valley Regional High School, where she played on the tennis team. She went to Boston College for her undergraduate degree and has both a master’s degree and a doctorate in nursing practice from the University of Connecticut.

The nursing practice doctorate, she explains, concentrates on the practical aspects of nursing as distinct from a PhD, which looks more at questions of theory and science.

Nursing is something of a family tradition. Both her mother and her aunt were nurses, and now her 28-year-old son

Splash of Math

Matthew Goudie is also a nurse in California.

Kristi left Connecticut after her studies were finished.

“Rebellious, I guess,” she explains.

She lived for a decade in Texas and for 15 years in Vermont before returning to Essex in 2015.

“I think I came back really to be there for my parents,” she says.

When Kristi returned to Essex, she says her mother had a piece of advice for her.

“She told me to get back into paddle,” Kristi remembers. “She said it would be a great way to meet people and a good social experience.”

Kristi did make a social connection, but through a neighbor’s introduction to Andy Kressley, an oral surgeon who practices in Old Saybrook. Kristi introduced him to platform tennis.

“Something we could do together,” she says.

Kressley has found other ways to help

the club. He often runs the grill at EPTC cookouts. He is a great griller, Kristi says, but, with her experience, she remains the better platform tennis player.

Locally, EPTC has a particular challenge: finding it. The club is down a long driveway behind Scotch Plains Tavern. Because people play at night, the courts are lit, and locating them away from private houses ensures the lights do not disturb neighbors. The way to get to the courts, located on Westbrook Road in Essex, is to make a quick left onto the driveway at the Essex Veterinary Clinic.

Kristi has another year left in her term as president. That’s more than enough time for many more paddle tennis games and just as important, enough time to get an updated picture to accompany the image of her as an eight-year-old that now

Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, announces its new Splash of Math Club for two groups of children—one for kindergarten through grade 2 at 1 p.m. and another for grades 3 to 5 at 2 p.m. The club will meet Saturdays, from June 14 through Aug. 16. Splash of Math is a math club that offers unique, high-energy math activities that appeal to children of all math abilities. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 860-767-1560.

TOWN OF DEEP RIVER Water Pollution Control Authority

Notice of Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the Deep River Water Pollution Control Authority will hold a Public Hearing on Monday June 16, 2024 @ 6:00 pm, at the Deep River Water Pollution Control Facility Meeting Room 99 Winter Avenue, Deep River CT concerning the establishment of the annual Operations and Maintenance Fee for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026. At this hearing, ratepayers shall be heard and correspondence received. The anticipated Equivalent Dwelling Unit Charge for the Fiscal Year of 25-26 is to be raised by $50 per dwelling.

A copy of the proposed budget is on file and available for review at the Town of Deep River’s website. Nicholas Kornacki

Chairman Deep River Water Pollution Control Authority

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF DEEP RIVER NOTICE OF VACANT LAND FOR SALE BY THE TOWN OF DEEP RIVER IN COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL PARK ZONE

By Sealed Bids of highest and best offer complying with the below requirements Determined in the sole discretion of the Town

Sealed Bids must be submitted on or before Wednesday, June 18th, 2025 at 11:30AM to be considered. Bids will be opened at 12:00 Noon on June 18th and the successful bidder will be announced and notified thereafter.

Two parcels are available:

1. Parcel #1 is 0.73 acres (31,997 square feet) with 82.12 feet of frontage on Mislick Drive, Assessor’s Map 38 Lot 68-1; topography level; will require private well and septic; Flood Zone X. Minimum offer to be considered $120,000. Cash- no contingencies; close in 20 days from bid acceptance. Earnest money deposit of $2,500.00 payable by cashier’s check to the Town of Deep River within three (3) days of acceptance. Town will convey marketable title subject to all matters of record, such other matters as a more accurate survey might disclose and zoning and other regulations imposed by governmental authority.

2. Parcel #2 is 0.79 acres (34,396 square feet) corner lot with 291.87 feet of frontage on Mislick Drive and 102.43 feet of frontage on Industrial Park Road. A watercourse bisects the lot and there is an area in Flood Zone AE, leaving approximately 0.60 acres of useable land; will require private well and septic Minimum offer to be considered $100,000. Cash- no contingencies; close in 20 days from bid acceptance. Earnest money deposit of $2,000.00 payable by cashier’s check to the Town of Deep River within 24 hours of acceptance. Town will convey marketable title subject to all matters of record, such other matters as a more accurate survey might disclose and zoning and other regulations imposed by governmental authority.

The Town of Deep River makes no representations concerning the said lots and no warranties other than the warranty of good and marketable title when conveyed.

Properties are to be conveyed “AS IS”. Potential buyers are required to conduct their own due diligence at their own expense (such as title search, municipal search, zoning evaluation, development potentials, site walk, etc.) prior to making offers as offers with contingencies will not be considered. If any real estate agent is involved, buyers shall pay any commission via separate agreement to which the Town will not be a party.

Bids must include the full name and address of the person or entity to whom title will be conveyed, be signed by that person or by an authorized officer or member of the legal entity, and include telephone and email address for contact and the total price in US dollars being offered and the Lot for which the offer is being made clearly identified.

Bids shall be in hard copy form with an original ink signature and shall be delivered in person or mailed to the Selectman’s Office, Deep River Town Hall, 174 Main Street, Deep River, CT 06417.

To be considered, bids shall be submitted to and received by the Selectman’s Office at the Deep River Town Hall at 174 Main Street in Deep River, Connecticut 06417 on or before 11:30AM on June 18th, 2025. The Town of Deep River reserves the right, (acting through its First Selectman) and in its sole discretion, to accept none of the bids received. All responsibility for ensuring that bids arrive for consideration rests with bidders.

Initial inquiries may be directed to the Office of the First Selectman at 860-526- 6020 or via email: firstselectman@deepriverct.us

Valley Regional High School Quarter 3 Honor Roll

Grade 12 High Honors

Amy Alberto, Chloe Alsback, Luke Rafal Baczewski, Kenneth Batt, Holly Board, Sophia Bonanno, Aiden Boxwell, Phoebe Bryan, James Brzozowy, Kobe Castellano, Rubee Cecchini, Anthony Christopher Cordova Zumba, Cameron Costanzo, Kendall Costello, Nathan Crown, Andrew Michael Delouchry, Andrew Dowie, Hannah Faucher, Jasmine M. Ferguson, Laura Gessner, Emma Gibson, Stella Reilly Greenawalt, Regan Grow, Savannah Grace Hanley, Daeveon Harrell, Kaeden Harrell, Niki Hashimoto-Kehayias, Delny Marsden, Amelia Martinez, Campbell Massey, Joseph Medel-Herrera, Tucker Norton, Nataly Pavon-Avila, Alessia Pisanzio, Lyle Pitman, Hailey Gail Lucibello Plano, Isabel Schmelzer, Gavin William Shkutzko, Thomas Troy, John Wadle, Noah Joseph Lee Walls, Birch Whitbeck, Cecilia Wilkens, Caleb Winkley

Grade 11 High Honors

Gavin H. Abderhalden, Abigail K. Alexander, Sofia Amaya, Elijah W. Arsenault, Tyler W. Benson, Sophie T. Bowers, Caitlin E. Brady, Ava B. Cannan, JacAlan Cecchini, Camille M. Cobbs, Noah C. Dolinsky, Bethany Erkkila, Patrick S. Finnegan, Cody J. Frost, Amelia Giantonio, Lucca B. Giordano, Catalena Goldberg, Addie Jane Guzallis, Rowan Herlihy, Sadie Iselin, Aldino Jasavic, Chase King, Rinze Knoop, Kellyn P. Kolber, Justin N. Lenda, Sydney Liggett, Antonia Rose Marchese, Anahi Matute, Nathan Mezick, Gavin Nadolny-Pallatto, Garrison Nankee, Abigail Noll, Ava Parker, Ryan Poulin, Isabel Rice, Tsering Samphel, Hannah O. Smith, Tristan Spallone,

Charles Spinelli, Gabriella Rose Sweet, Jayden A. Vasquez, Connor Walden, Cooper James Wrubleski, Sonya Xaypanya

Sophia Abramson, Luke Jacob Beighau, John Blalock, Kai Andrew Carlin, Mark Anthony Condon, Karlee Diana Cutler, Madison A. Czepiel, Ethan Dean, Madelyn J. DeLorso, Sara Abigail Delouchry, Cody Jason Donahue, Cameron Donoghue, Charles Edwards, Alexa EscarramanAndujar, Addison Marie Hardman, Jalen Jay Harrell, Lyrical Lee Hupkau, Abigail Innamorato, Aaron Johnson, Daisie Jones, Kalonji Joyce, Anne Keck, Violet Adeline Keyes, Jacob Knox, Charlotte Elsie Kolb, Hawley Kornacki, Christopher Kostek, Clementine Lavezzoli, Penelope Ludwig, Fernanda Luna, Julian Mardjekaj, Owen Constantine McCuin, Jonah William Morrissey, Alanna Grace Nye, Elleigh Alivia Ortola, Camille Grace Pagliuco, Elliott Paradis, Noah Plancon, MaiLi Quale, Sway Daniel Riechel, Julianna Amelia Robinson, Riley Russell, Emma Li Schultz, Talia Shankar, Benjamin D. Snyder, Avery Davis Soares, William Ung, Theodore Vari, Vincent Vari, Abigail J Vilca, Kajsia Wright

Jacob Matthew Allard, Sydney Larkin Archambault, Grace Ellin Bauer, Reagan Belloni, Adam Michael Brown, Madison Brzozowy, Dakota Camire, Daniel Ray Charbonnier, Winghei Vincy Cheung, Emily Collins, Shayla Cronan, Adriana

See Valley page 10

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING

ESSEX PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Planning and Zoning Commission will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Essex Town Hall 29 West Avenue Essex, CT (see agenda on Town’s website www.essexct.gov for further details), at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following application:

- PZC #25-3 Special Exception under Section 101E.1 of the Essex Zoning Regulations to complete bank stabilization of existing wave break and pilings to reduce erosion at 36 Fordham Road Essex. Applicant/Owner: Samuel S. Bowles

- PZC #25-4 Text Amendment under Section 123 of the Essex Zoning Regulations to add a definition of transients to Section 20, clarifying definition of marinas to remove word transient, and modify Section 45E.6 and 45-1F.7 noting the requirement of short-term rental permit.

Applicant: Essex Planning and Zoning Commission

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

Essex Planning and Zoning Commission

Russell Smith, Chairman

Q: We just moved into a new house last fall. My neighbor told me the previous owner planted hundreds of crocuses. I’ve never had crocuses before, what are they like? - Donna

A: Crocuses are fascinating. They are perennials that tolerate cold temperatures well and are among the first bloomers in the garden every year. Crocuses are members of the iris family that bloom in an array of colors: yellow, white, blue, violet and striped. There are over 80 varieties known around the world and over 30 are cultivated commercially. While most crocus varieties bloom in the late winter and spring, there is one particularly interesting variety, the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus), that blooms in the fall. The saffron crocus has been around for thousands of years and bred to have especially long threads, which when picked and dried, are used to make the well-known saffron spice. Amazingly, it takes about 80,000 crocus flowers to produce 1 lb. of saffron! To satisfy the estimated 600,000 lb. annual worldwide demand for saffron, over 50 million crocuses contribute their stigmas! That’s a lot of hand-picking! Not surprisingly, Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, selling for up to $5,000 per oz.! Thank you for a great question.

Valley Regional High School Quarter 3 Honor Roll

Continued from page 8

Dos Santos, Tucker Ferretti, Bella Sophia Florentino, Isaac Gardner, Katie Gerl, Thomas Chad Guillerault, Claire Johnson, Kirstin Elin Lenda, Cole Gianni Ludovico, David Willard Maynard, Tanner McIntyre, Abigail Muggleston, Charlotte Ava Parker, Josephine Porter, Susanna Ray, Boden Rice, Oliver Daniel Smith, Phoebe Rose Walmsley Spallone, Carley Spearrin, William Tressel, Auri Rose Vacirca, Grayson Michael Walden, Abigail Yurasek, Cody Ziobron

Grade 12 Honors

Bryam Sebastian Balarezo Molleturo, Lily Belcher, Lilly Ann Bragdon, Tyler Brown, Nicolas Cartagena, Rigo ChirinosIzaguirre, Olivia Dart, Chloe Donahue, McCoy Gosman, Elizabeth Natalie Irons, Abigail Jones, Braden Karcich, Michael Lelyo, Grace Lunz, Grace Matute-Ishman, Jack McPherson, Jovanie Raul Molina, Cooper Mondelci, Gavin Ortola, Reilly Quinn, Nathan Rowland, Colbie Anne Ryan, Adam Schmelzer, Sofia Skorbezh, Madeline Sonn, Lauren Verhagen, Caden Villegas, Joseph Welch, Shepard Whitney

Grade 11 Honors

Emma Abramson, Scarlett E. Boland, Jonas Campion, Joshua Clark, Owen J. Gallagher, Corallina Giuliano, Kellen Graham, John Finnian Heiser, Jack P. Helsel, Sebastian I. Heredia, Madeline K. Hollister, Owen Lee Ingram, Aemelia Z. Kostek,

Nyla Maignan, Payton May McIntyre, Anthony Thomas Miers, Jayvien Jesus Molina, Hallie Victoria Moore, Samantha Jane Moore, James M. Preston, Madelyn Riebold, Cody Saunders, Reed Schmelzer, Anna Cloe Sheikowitz, Jared W. Valakos, Tula J. Whitbeck, Taylor Julia Zduniak

Grade 10 Honors

Jaquelyn Alberto, Amelia C. Athay, Charlotte Louise Bach, Derek James Beaudoin, Matilda Diana Barbara Boutilier, Colton B. Brooks, Kayleigh Nicole Cornett, Avery Katherine deMik, Patrick James Doyon, Megan Joy Dugan, Jackson Keller Fritz, Jonathon Charles Louis Howley, Upel Lhamo, Ronin Magee, Penelope Martell, Josephina Umbria McGee, Marina Grace Morgan, James Pinski, Sarah Pinski, Alan Jhosue Pinto Correa, Finnegan H. Recchia, Emma Reilly, Lily Resnisky, Macy Kelly Rock, Haven Rayne Sarafin, Madelyn Stone, Maksim Matthew Stopa, Hope Trippconey

Grade 9 Honors

Levi S. Batt, Caden Bedell, Audrey Noreen Carlone, Keegan David Colquhoun, Grace Lily Conlan, Keenan C. Covey, Mariaclara Evangelista Dias, Kali Shea Dorso, Zoe Dumas, Canyon Erkkila, Emma Jean Gallagher, Kash Oliver Glowac, Landon Heft, Sara Heiser, Alex C. Holcomb, Varrick Recchia, Payton May Renzoni, Payton Riebold, Olivia Faith Shorey, Tage Wright

The Essex Zoning Board of Appeals conducted its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Essex Town Hall. The following Decisions were rendered:

- Application No. 25-2 on behalf of Gregory and Mary-Jo Toczydlowski, 175 Saybrook Road Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 74 Lot 11, Rural Residential District, requesting variances of Sections 40C, 40D, 40E, 40I.1, 40I.2, 61B, and 101E for an existing pergola roof 19.2 feet from the side property line where 30 feet is required and within 100 feet of the coastal jurisdiction line. APPROVED

- 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. APPROVED

- 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. DENIED

Respectfully submitted,

Ward Feirer, Vice Chairman

Facts About Max

derful senior cats are often overlooked for adoption. Forgotten Felines was contacted about Max, an extremely affectionate and playful declawed orange tiger, who needed help after the person who adopted him as a kitten was moved into an assisted living facility and the house was being sold. Imagine losing your mother and home after 15 years. He is a very special boy who would prefer to be your only spoiled fur baby. Will you open your heart and give Max a forever home for the rest of his life? For a private appointment to meet him, please fill out an adoption application online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

Weekend Wiggle Worms

Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No

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.

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 31 and June 7, at 9:30 a.m. For more information or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560.

Photo by Genevieve Ray

Story by Carol Andrecs

Obituaries

Continued from page 5

Obituary

Theodore

Abderhalden

Ocean, NJ

Theodore "Ted" John Abderhalden, of Ocean, New Jersey, Boynton Beach, Florida, and the towns of Essex, Old Saybrook, and finally Madison, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on May 16, 2025. Ted is survived by his wife of 56 years Michele (Griffin); his daughter Jeanne Gade and son-in-law Owen of Old Saybrook; his son Christian and daughter-in-law Shana (Haskell) of Essex; his grandchildren, Grace and Gavin Abderhalden of Essex; his brothers-in-law, Robert Griffin of Armonk, New York, and Jack Griffin (Sue) of Cross River, New York; his beloved grand-dogs Mason and Captain of Old Saybrook; many cousins; and countless numbers of cherished friends.

2010. The town of Boynton Beach was never the same. Ted and his friends would gather on the beach during the day, and the party would continue at night in one of their many regular spots in town or back at their house, where they were known for elaborate dinner parties and guaranteed good times. In addition to Florida, Ted’s retirement years were filled with constant travel. He and Michele explored the world, oftentimes with friends in tow. Ted’s global adventures took him to six continents and over 40 countries.

Ted was born Jan. 13,1940, in Jersey City, New Jersey to Theodore Sr. and Doris (Feeney). After his time at St. Peter's Prep boys' high school, Ted went on to a life of hard work, bouncing around jobs before finding his place as a house painter, and going on to own and operate Abbey’s Painting throughout the '80s and '90s in Bergen County, New Jersey. Later in life, Ted and Michele took full advantage of the hot real estate market and had great success buying, moving into, and then quickly selling properties in northern New Jersey and the Jersey Shore. In the summer of 1966, while spending weekends at the shore towns of Belmar and Spring Lake, Ted met Michele, and they later married in January of 1969. They settled in northern New Jersey and soon after welcomed Jeanne. Four years later, Christian arrived, and the family moved to Ridgefield, where they stayed until retirement in the late 1990s. Moving to Ocean, New Jersey, meant Ted could take full advantage of his favorite pastime, sitting on the beach and enjoying the ocean. Even in his later years, no one could ride a wave like Ted.

After years of living the snowbird life, Ted and Michele could no longer resist and finally moved to Florida full-time in

Ted’s life was full of so much joy, no more so when he was in the company of his family, especially his grandkids. "Opa," as he was called, took being a grandfather very seriously, and he and Michele spent just about every holiday, winter trips in Florida, and summers along the Connecticut shoreline with Grace and Gavin. Ted was a true patriarch of the family, and the legacy he leaves behind will be with us forever.

The last years of Ted’s life were not easy, but his amazing personality and that smile made it easier for us all. The family would like to extend our most sincere thanks to the staff at Harbor Chase in Madison, especially all of Ted’s friends in the Cove, where he was affectionately known as “Theodorable,” and the staff at Yale New Haven Hospice. And finally, we would like to acknowledge and thank Ted’s personal aid, Angela. Angela has been by Ted’s side around the clock these last nine months of his life. The level of care, respect, and kindness Angela and these organizations showed Ted through his illness should be a reminder to us all that there is so much good in this world.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 19, at Saint John’s Church, 161 Main Street in Old Saybrook, followed by a gathering of friends and family at the Saybrook Point Inn. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ted’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and The Alzheimer's Association. To share a memory of Ted or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com Arrangements are in the care of the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.

Legendary fashion icon Clinton Kelly was at The RiverLane boutique in Essex for an exclusive spring styling makeover event and trunk show in March. Pictured are Lenore Elbrecht; Jill Marie Macaluso; Erica Tannen; Robin Zubretsky, owner of The RiverLane; Kelly; Debra Boardman; Emma Boardman; and Susan Dee.

Style Fundraiser Raises $2,750 to Support Dog Days Adoption Event

What Not to Wear The Chew

Legendary fashion icon Clinton Kelly, known for and , joined The RiverLane boutique in Essex for an exclusive spring styling makeover event and trunk show in March.

Featuring the Los Angeles-based lifestyle brand Staud, the event sold out and raised $2,750 to support Dog Days Adoption Events, LLC—a local organization supporting animals in need— making it a resounding success.

“Clinton Kelly brought star power to this event to help us support local animals,” said Robin Zubretsky, owner of The RiverLane. “It was a funfilled, fashionable afternoon that not only showcased the latest spring styles, but also allowed our community to come together for a great cause. We’re so grateful to everyone who participated and helped make a difference for animals in need.”

Two lucky guests—Jill Marie Macaluso of South Windsor and Lenore Elbrecht of

Little Learners at the Library

Napanoch, New York—were randomly selected in advance to participate in the fashion show and be styled in Staud by Kelly himself. Others included were Emma Boardman of Cranston, Rhode Island; Debra Boardman of Old Lyme; Susan Dee of Essex; and Erica Tannen, founder of , a weekly newsletter about the best of the Connecticut shoreline.

The E List

Along with the trunk show and fashion show, Kelly delivered what he called a “style esteem seminar.” In that seminar, Kelly offered his tips on how to feel good about what you’re wearing every single day.

An upcoming Dog Days Adoption event will present 30 to 50 dogs who are available for adoption to be prevented from going to kill shelters. The RiverLane boutique will hold the event in its parking lot on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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 at 10 a.m. with the theme of camping on May 30 and summer on June 6. 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.

Photo courtesy of First Position Media

Press Release from First Position Media

DRES Students Celebrate Nature, Neighborhood

Continued from page 1

make all of the different animals and other things.”

The exhibit featured ducks, squirrels, deer, and a variety of birds, alongside painted backgrounds and sound effects of nature to complete the immersive effect. Families visiting during the social were able to spot the pieces their children helped create and hear firsthand about the process.

Students who had previously worked on similar installations returned to share memories of their contributions, DeWolfCarfi said.

“I still have students that are in high

Essex Library Holds Book Sales

school now that tell me about the animal they made that they still have,” she said.

The art room remained open for viewing the day after the event as well, giving additional families a chance to see the work. While the social was limited to the school community, its impact stretched further — remaining clothing, shoes, and books from the swap were donated to local organizations.

DeWolf-Carfi said the project is intended not only to spark creativity, but to foster a deeper connection to the natural world surrounding Deep River.

“It’s about helping students understand the place they live — and encouraging them to explore it more.”

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, children's books, young adults, and self-help. 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.

The 2025 Beacon Award winners will be celebration with a special dinner at The Woodwinds on October 14.

Presented by:

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Braves Take First Place in Week Four of Deep River Horseshoes

Gray skies and cool temperatures were quite a change from Week Three of the Deep River Horseshoe League, but it did little to affect the scoring, as seventeen B and C division players improved on one or more statistical categories of their game in Week Four. The average series for a B player was 84 points, and for the C player it was 71 points.

The Braves scored 316 points, as Frank Rausch had a season best scoring night, and the team moved into first place. The Rockies swept the White Sox, the Mets topped 300 points but fell to the Orioles 4-2, the Yankees halted the Pirates’ sting of 300 points per game, and the Cubs grabbed third place with their fourth 4-2 win.

For the second time in three weeks, Braves’ Rausch was the “A” division’s top scorer, as they faced off against Tony Cutone’s Angels. After a mediocre start in losing game one, Rausch found his stroke in game two. He had a personal best game of 51 points, 15 ringers, and five doubles, and no open boxes. The Braves went on to win the next three games. In game three, Peter Furmonavicius singlehandedly outscored the Angels. In game four, Rausch scored 40 points with 12 ringers, and then in game five, Rausch scored 37 points, and Furmonavicius added 34 points for the team’s fourth win. Rausch finished the night with a season best series of 158 points, 43 ringers, and nine doubles. Furmonavicius’s 107-point series was “B” division’s third leading scorer. The Braves topped 300 points for the second time this season with 316 points. Angels’ Cutone had a season best 121-point series. With the 4-2 win, the Braves are alone in first place. Being a high scoring team like Skip Robinson’s Pirates means you must score better than your average to overcome handicaps in order to win. This was the case as they played Todd Nuhn’s Yankees. The Yankees were getting thirteen points in games one and four, ten points in games two and five, and nine points in games three and six. The Pirates won game one easily, as Robinson and Anthony Conkling scored 63 points to win by double-digits. In the next three games, the Pirates were unable to score their averages, while the Yankees scored at or above their average for the wins. The Pirates won the last two games and gained a split 3-3 with the Yankees. Conkling’s 97point series (second week in a row) was “C” division’s leading scorer, while Yankees’ Paul Stevens’s 91-point series was “C” division’s second leading scorer. The Pirates finished with 291 points, ending their 300-point matches at three. The Pirates are in second place. Damin Roberts’s Rockies were tied with Brady Miller’s White Sox for 10th place entering the night. Roberts was noted for his slow start in game one, and it offered an opportunity for a win by his opponent. Roberts and Miller had subpar games, but the Rockies won by four points. Except for Brian Walsh, the White Sox’s scoring woes

continued throughout the match. Walsh’s 84-point series was the high score for the White Sox, but the Rockies won all six games. Deb Scully’s 81-point series was a season’s best. The team scored 287 points and is fourth in total team points. The Rockies scored on 191 of the 288 shoes they tossed (66%), which is a league season high.

Mark Goodale’s Mets were coming off a sweep in Week Three but decided to change to a different shoe after a team’s practice session. The results are in their scores. Goodale had a 111-point series, Mike Shashok’s 109-point series was second leading “B” division scorer, and Leif Selander’s 83-point series was a season’s best, and the team totaled 303 points. They played John Durinick’s Orioles who only won one game the week before. Fred Hill subbed on Durinick’s team. The Mets overcame seven points of handicap for a win in game one, but the Orioles won the next four games. Butch Carotenuto found his scoring touch in the next two games, and the Orioles

Valley Courier

Thursday, May 29, 2025

made use of their handicap for the next two wins. The Mets won the last game, as Shashok and Selander closed out the match with their best games of the night. Carotenuto’s 125 point series was the top score for “B” division, and the Orioles won 4-2. The Mets are tied for sixth place.

Joe Heery’s Rangers faced Kris Toohey’s Cardinals last week. The Rangers’ goal was to try win the B/C games by taking advantage of the handicap and hope that Toohey would not have a repeat of Week Three’s scoring. Matt Mule was a last-minute substitute for the Cardinals and resulted in the handicap, favoring the Cardinals in four of the six games. Toohey singlehandedly won game one and tied the Rangers’ score in game four. Heery’s 34 points in game two and Hunter Beckwith’s 34 points in game three gave the Rangers two wins. The Cardinals won game five benefit of the handicap, and in the last game, Beckwith topped the Cardinals’ score, but with the handicap, the game ended in a tie. Toohey finished the night with a 135point series and was “A” division’s second leading scorer. The Cardinals won 3.5-2.5 and moved into fourth place. Cody Layton’s Cubs gained their fourth-straight 4-2 win, as they played John Hutra’s Marlins. Layton had a season’s best 118-point series, while Marlins’ Dennis Allen had his season best 100-point series. In game five, the Cubs led by four points going into the last box, and the Marlins outscored them 8-1 for a three-point win. Cubs’ Paul Chrystal’s 33 points in game six gave the Cubs their fourth win, and Chrystal’s 88-point series was the third highest for “C” players. The Cubs are currently in fourth place.

Bill Beckwith, noted for tossing doubles, has struggled so far. He feels confident he made the necessary changes in his delivery, as the Red Sox faced Chip Goodrich’s Reds. He had three doubles in each of his first two games, and in game five, his 38 points (including two doubles) singlehandedly won the game. In the last game, the Red Sox held a one-point lead going into the last two boxes, but the Reds came away with a three-point win. Beckwith had nine doubles for the night, and his 126-point series was the third highest for “A” division. The Red Sox won 42.

In other matches, Mike Zanelli Sr.’s Giants split 3-3 with Jeremy Davis’s Dodgers. The match featured three games decided by one point - two won by the Dodgers and one by the Giants. Sheryl Serviss’s Tigers split 3-3 with John Sciacca’s Diamondbacks. Adam Fortier subbed in place of Serviss. The Diamondbacks decided to change shoes, going from Mustangs to EZ-Flips. The Tigers won game one by handicap and then went on to win the next two games by double-digits. The Diamondbacks won the last three games.

For more information regarding the Deep River Horseshoe League, head to http://www.deepriverhorse shoes.com/contacts.

Photo courtesy of Joe Heery

Pictured are the Braves of the Deep River Horseshoe League in Joe Machado, Peter Furmonavicius, and Frank Rausch.

A Salute to the Fallen and our Stars and Stripes

Here is a salute to Old Glory and all who gave the ultimate sacrifice serving her and the country while in the United States Armed Forces. Hearts and prayers go out during this solemn Memorial Day, observed since 1868 that also happens to be today’s unofficial first day of summer.

Interestingly enough, striped bass in Connecticut waters dates back to colonial times which would be circa 1636. They certainly were observed and documented back in 1864 - four years prior to Memorial Day first being observed. So when we celebrate Memorial Day weekend, between honoring, praying, and a bit of fishing, focusing on stars and stripes is not a stretch zeroing in on striped bass under a sky full of stars.

Stars mean night, and a nighttime tide means live eels. And the way this season has been shaping up, linesiders have been filling Long Island Sound from the rivers and the coast. They are laser-focused on feeding, and, as they migrate in, they will invariably meet up with American eels in those rivers - some already established, others entering.

This Memorial Day we will be having an early evening flood tide - one day before the new moon. Providing wind and weather do not set up roadblocks, this period of time can see an increase in activity and stronger currents, which can trigger feeding sprees. During a new moon, the earth, sun, and moon align, causing the forces of the sun and moon to combine and thus creating a spring tide that has a larger tidal range due to gravitational pull. Greater differences between high and low tides generate stronger tidal currents. And that could be a very good thing - especially in areas of significant bottom structure.

Have a memorable weekend. And while you are honoring our fallen front line patriots, save time to catch and release a few fish adorned with stripes while fishing under the stars.

On The Water

Wet, wild, and uncooperative best describes our weather pattern that seems to have gotten into a routine, causing uncertainty for weekenders. Relaxing recreational plans or outdoor-related work made little difference if the weather played a role. Most recently, low pressure was slow to depart the New England coast, sending several surface troughs through the area and leaving weekend play in disarray. High pressure finally nosed in from the north followed by a frontal system that

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

Fishing report

impacted the area before moving northeast. Several small craft advisories were posted due to the nor’easter, raising havoc with Long Island Sound’s six-foot seas while dense morning fog caused the blare of foghorns to echo above the 54 to 56degree water. And then, suddenly it was Memorial Day weekend!

When fishers paid more attention to the weather and sea conditions as they were unfolding and then factored in high probable weather events, they would be much farther ahead in their To-Do list. For the moment, striped bass still headline as this month’s most available, sought after marine fish to catch. Their mystique, foraging capabilities, hardy makeup, keen multiple senses, and trademark fighting skills (as well as being an attractive historic species) make them so revered. If it is a natural part of a striper’s habitat, it will eat it. Anything closely resembling an organism related to the habitat will also get eaten. Artificials resembling or made to act accordingly will be eaten if conditions warrant it. Live eels, sea worms, a variety of frozen baits, soft plastics, topwater plugs, and some sub-surface lures have given rise to some serious action. Aside from natural baits, topwater poppers, spooks, paddletails, and soft stick baits have been hot.

Surging striped bass continue flowing into Long Island Sound with massive appetites for natural baits and a variety of topwater and subsurface lures. Flooding tides at sundown have produced outstanding catches that run the board from schoolies to 31 inches and now, more 40” linesiders. Early morning fogged-in tides have even produced hefty cows over 50” when trolling or drifting dressed up shad bodies and bucktails. Natural foraging on shad and menhaden is incessant, giving fishers clues as to which artificials to cast. Near-shore hookups rule a lot of the action, while offshore reefs are seeing an increase in activity. With less boat traffic preMemorial Day, fishers are having more gunwale-to-gunwale room, but that will soon change.

The way the striper bite has materialized, it is doubtful that off-beat weather will keep many fishers from taking advantage of the action. Wind has been a hin-

derance to fly fishers, however, the occasional north wind to the back during a flood tide at sundown has yielded results worth the trip. Aside from live bait (eels, sandworms, finfish) and chunks, top water plugs (keep knee-jerk reactions to a minimum) have been the go-to as well as bucktails/strips and soft plastics. Small to medium-sized swimmers are definitely having their moments.

As expected, shark vs. striped bass conversations are re-surfacing, indicating that interceptions and predation is of concern. Once again, early striper fishing got off to a robust start. Because little evidence is provided to indicate a drop in the Sound’s sandbar shark population, one can reasonably expect another season of shark vs. striper. As in the past and to further studies, we would like to know about any encounters between sandbar sharks and striped bass via photos and/or videos.

Slab porgies are being caught from deep water offshore reefs primarily using rigs and squid. As water temperatures rise, the near-shore bite will rapidly increaseprobably sooner than expected. Fluke catches have been lackluster - better in western Sound and variable midway through. Black sea bass season has opened, but winds and messy seas have

kept most vessels from heading out. Fish stocks remain full, and catches should follow last season (if not better)) provided forage is sustainable. Striped sea robins are starting to move in, while smooth dogfish will be considered fun to catch by some, and others a nuisance, will once again be stacked up. Get ready for a good but varied season ahead!

Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media. For all things fishy, including the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2025 licenses/permits, and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call 203-245-8665 for updated spring hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better.

Tight Lines, Captain Morgan captainmorganusa@hotmail.com captainmorgan-fish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa

Photo courtesy of Captain Morgan

A fisherman’s tribute to front line Armed Forces who served and paid the ultimate price for defending life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Cokas Leads Valley Boys’ Lacrosse as Captain and Top Scorer

By Jenn McCulloch

Special

to Valley Courier

As the regular season nears its end, Valley Regional High School senior Kai Cokes is leading the Valley boys’ lacrosse team both on and off the field. The senior captain, Kai is the team’s top scorer and a key figure in its push toward the postseason.

“Kai has grown tremendously in character and as an elite lacrosse player, and as we enter the final week of the regular season, our team stands behind his leadership with the intent to play in the Shoreline and state playoffs,” says Valley boys’ lacrosse Head Coach Colby Hawkins. “He’s done an excellent job on the field this year and as a team captain. He takes time to work with players one on one and continually speaks in our team huddle about having the right mindset and attitude towards each practice and game.”

Kai, who plays attack, leads the team in scoring this year with 45 goals and 21 assists, surpassing his stats from last year when he tallied 30 goals and 10 assists. Kai has helped guide the Warriors through a season filled with both wins and challenges.

“This season has had some highs and lows, as we were struggling a bit to find the right chemistry and balance, but we’re working hard every day and pushing ourselves and have a lot of good energy on the team,” says Kai. “We’re working hard to get to a place where we can compete for the playoffs and the championship.”

Lacrosse has been part of Kai’s life since third grade, when his dad handed him a stick and he started playing in the backyard with his older brother, Cobe. He joined the CT Ticks, a club team that pulls players from several towns, and he quickly fell in love with the game.

“I missed a year in sixth grade after breaking my arm, but I never stopped loving it,” Kai says. “Lacrosse teaches you to control your emotions and stay locked in even when everything’s moving fast. It’s one of the best sports you can play.”

Freshman year, Kai barely saw the varsity field, but he was paying attention. The seniors that season left a mark on him that he still carries.

“They showed me what great leadership looks like,” Kai says. “They made sure no one felt judged and everyone felt like they were learning. I knew I wanted to lead the same way someday.”

He reached that goal as a senior following a successful career with Valley boys’ lacrosse. After his freshman year, Kai knew he wanted to make a bigger impact on the team. He began training in the off-

Sports Person Week

season with his cousin and his brother, Cobe — who he shared the field with his freshman and sophomore year — working on footwork, shooting, and off-hand skills. He was rewarded with varsity time in every game of his sophomore season.

“I put in a lot of work in that offseason, and that season was big time growth for me within the game and in myself,” says Kai. “It was a big step for me. I was nervous to start the season, but I got settled in and started to like the pressure, and that motivated me to get better. It was super special to be able to share the field with Cobe. It was cool to have someone out there you’ve been growing with and training with your whole life.”

Heading into his junior year after Cobe graduated, Kai not only continued to contribute on the field, but as a mentor to the younger players as well. He had some experience in leading younger players, as in the offseason, through the Valley Lacrosse Club, Kai helped teach fundamentals to youth players just getting started in the sport he loves.

“They’re funny and energetic and just love to play,” he says, smiling. “It’s awesome to pass on what I’ve learned and build that connection. Hopefully I’m giving them what older players once gave to me.”

While the team didn’t finish with as many wins as Kai would have liked, he was happy to gain more experience on the field. Heading into his senior year, he was proud to be named one of four captains — something he aspired to be since his freshman year.

“As captain, I take it personally to make sure guys are getting along, helping each other grow, and giving 100% every day,” Kai says. “It’s something I always looked forward to—being someone the team can count on. The other captains and I all want what’s best for the team. It’s easy to rally behind people like that. We’ve done a good job making sure everyone’s not just becoming a better player—but a better person, too.”

Hawkins has seen the impact that having Kai serve as one of the team’s four senior captains has had, not only on the team, but on the Valley boys’ lacrosse program as a whole.

“He’s done an excellent job on the field

this year and as a team captain,” says Hawkins. “He takes time to work with players one on one and continually speaks in our team huddle about having the right mindset and attitude towards each practice and game. He has already left a lasting impression on the underclassmen and will be remembered as one of the most competitive players to come through our program.”

While Kai is looking forward to the postseason, one of his favorite memories came in one of the last regular-season games. Valley pulled out a 16–15 overtime win against Old Saybrook —exactly the kind of momentum the team needs for a postseason run.

“We needed that one,” Kai says. “The

energy was different. We believed all week that we could pull it off, and we did. That win gives us a real shot.”

Next year, Kai plans to study business and walk on to the Division III lacrosse team at Roger Williams University, where his brother also attended. It’s a new challenge he’s excited to face, but he’s still locked in on finishing strong with Valley.

“Coach Hawkins and I both started here the same year, so it’s been special to learn and grow together, and my dad has also been a huge support — I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” says Kai. “It being senior year is surreal. With only a few games left, you want to leave it all out there.”

Photo courtesy of Kai Cokas

Senior Kai Cokas serves as a captain for the Valley boys' lacrosse team this spring and leads the squad in scoring with 45 goals and 21 assists.

Schedules

Saturday, May 31: Class S State Tournament Qualifying Round

Monday, June 2: Class S State Tournament First Round

Tuesday, June 3: Class S State Tournament Second Round

Saturday, June 7: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 10: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Friday, June 13 or Saturday, June 14: Class S State Tournament Finals

Monday, June 2: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 3: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Wednesday, June 4: Class S State Tournament Finals

Girls’ Tennis

Friday, May 30 or Saturday, May 31: Class S State Tournament First Round

Monday, June 2: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 3: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Wednesday, June 4: Class S State Tournament Finals

Girls’ Tennis Completes Undefeated Regular Season, Softball Takes a Loss

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Boys’ Tennis

The Valley boys’ tennis team closed out the regular season on May 20, traveling to East Hampton and taking a 5-2 loss. Myles Garrity won 7-5, 6-0 at No. 2 singles, and the No. 1 doubles pairing of Nic Cartagena and Jonah Morrissey won 6-3, 2-6, 6-2.

Saturday, May 31: Class S State Tournament Qualifying Round

Monday, June 2: Class S State Tournament First Round

Girls’ Lacrosse

Wednesday, June 4: Class S State Tournament Second Round

Friday, June 6: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Monday, June 9 or Tuesday, June 10: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Saturday, June 14: Class S State Tournament Finals

Tuesday, June 10: Division III State Tournament at 8 a.m.

Friday, May 30 or Saturday, May 31: Class S State Tournament First Round

Tuesday, June 3: Class S State Tournament Second Round

Friday, June 6: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Tuesday, June 10: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Sunday, June 15: Class S State Tournament Finals

Boys’ Lacrosse

Friday, May 30: Class S State Tournament First Round

Wednesday, June 4: Class S State Tournament Second Round

Girls’ Tennis

On May 19, the Valley girls’ tennis team hosted North Branford and won 6-1. Hannah Smith won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 2 singles, and Ella Smith won 6-1, 6-0 at No. 3 singles. Riley Russell earned a 6-0, 6-0 victory at No. 4 singles.

Regan Grow and Alessia Pisanzio earned a 6-0, 6-0 victory at No. 1 doubles, and Alana Martinez and Ella Martinez won 6-2, 6-2 at No. 2 doubles. At No. 3 doubles, Charlotte Kolb and Sydney Liggett won 6-0, 6-0.

On May 21, the Warriors hosted Coginchaug and won 5-2 to wrap up a perfect regular season at 14-0. Hannah Smith earned a 6-0, 6-1 win at No. 2 singles, and Ella Smith won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 3 singles. Russell won 6-1, 6-0 at No. 4 singles. Grow and Pisanzio won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 1 doubles, and Liggett and Kolb won 6-2, 6-0 at No. 3 doubles.

Softball

Valley softball hosted Bacon Academy on May 20 and lost 8-0. Carley Spearrin hit a double in the contest, and Paige Williams pitched seven innings, giving up 13 hits and seven earned runs. She walked six and struck out 11.

Monday, June 2: Class S State Championship meet at 10 a.m.

Saturday, June 7: Class S State Tournament Quarterfinals

Wednesday, June 11: Class S State Tournament Semifinals

Saturday, June 14: Class S State Tournament Finals

Friday, May 30 or Saturday, May 31: Class S State Tournament First Round

Summer Internship Program

Valley Shore Community Television is offering a paid summer internship program for high school students beginning Tuesday, July 1. This six-week internship provides students with the opportunity to develop skills in media production, including filming, editing, and storytelling. Interns will be responsible for producing at least one local human-interest story from start to finish. Guided by professional storytellers, students will gain real-world experience in a supportive, hands-on environment. Valley Shore Community Television is located at 1587 Boston Post Road, Suite A2, Westbrook. For more information or to apply, email valleyshore19@gmail.com.

more information and to apply online: https://www.region18.org/district-information/employment Deadline is until filled / EOE.

Secretary at Mile Creek School (full-time position)

DECK RESTORE

Fun By The Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!

Here’s How It Works:

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

By Karen Isaacs

at Ivoryton Looks Inside Katharine Hepburn’s Life Tea at Five

Katharine Hepburn was not only born in Hartford, but she made her home on Fenwick Point in Old Saybrook a principal residence in the latter part of her life. She had visited and stayed at the family home throughout her life, finding it a sanctuary from the vicissitudes of Hollywood. , now at Ivoryton Playhouse through Sunday, June 8, is a one-person show whose title reflects a Hepburn family tradition from her childhood: the daily tea and conversation at 5 p.m.

One-person shows provide challenges for playwrights. Why is the person telling these stories? How can additional information be provided? Playwright Matthew Lombardo uses triedand-true methods – phone calls and doorbells- to provide the opportunity to bring in action and new information. He never addresses why Hepburn is telling all of this. She recognizes there is an audience and asks, “You may wonder why I….” but it is never clear. Are we just passive listeners, an interviewer, or perhaps a ghostwriter for a memoir? More unlikely, is she just talking to herself?

The actress playing Hepburn also has a tightrope to negotiate. The best shows of this type give us an impression of the subject, but not an imitation. In this case, Carlyn Connolly mostly succeeds. She may not have all the gestures or a consistent accent, but she has enough of them to let us recognize Hepburn. We might not instantaneously recognize it is Hepburn, but within minutes, we accept that it is her.

The show is broken into two acts; the first is set in 1938, during a low point in her Hollywood career, and the second in 1983, when she has “retired” and is bat-

Vivien Leigh was announced for the role in 1939, after Act One ends. Perhaps it is poetic license.

Bringing Up Baby Holiday

Act One is set after a series of six box office failures; even the films that got good reviews ( and ) did poorly at the box office, which was blamed on Hepburn. She was viewed as “arrogant” and “difficult.” It didn’t help that one of the most powerful gossip columnists (Louella Parsons) constantly attacked her. No doubt she was she was a woman who spoke her mind and did not easily acquiesce.

recounts her brother’s suicide when he was 15 and her life with Spencer Tracy, that seemed less loving and more emotionally abusive. They never married but lived together for years; Tracy, a fine actor, was also an alcoholic. It is here that Connolly seems to overdo the emotion. Her raw outpourings seem out of character. One can question both Connolly’s and director Jacqueline Hubbard’s decisions in the scenes.

tling physical problems; it is thought she had Parkinson’s which would account for the movements of her head and hands, but she adamantly denied it. Hepburn died in 2003. Lombardo has to be blamed for

some factual errors. In the play, Hepburn desperately wants the role of Scarlett O’Hara in . While that is true (every actress in Hollywood wanted or tested for the role), that was in 1936, not 1938. Gone with the Wind

The second act is less careercentered; she talks more about her home and her family. The portraits of her father and mother are less rosy than those mentioned in Act One. They were not very emotionally open, and she seems to have always wanted to gain her father’s approval.

She focuses more on the difficulties except for a humorous anecdote about Stephen Sondheim. They lived next door to each other in NYC.

The act is darker as she

Starlet Jacobs’ scenic design provided an appropriate 1930s summer house, but it is strange that so little has changed in Act Two; the house was destroyed during the hurricane of 1938 and rebuilt, apparently exactly the same as it was. It also appears that except for some changes in pictures, Hepburn did little updating of the house since then.

But that is a minor concern.

For audiences who remember and admire Hepburn, a very independent woman, will enjoy this fictionalized portrait of her.

For tickets, visit IvorytonPlayhouse.org.

Tea at Five

Special to Living

Photo courtesy of the Ivoryton Playhouse

Photo courtesy of the Ivoryton Playhouse

The show is broken into two acts; the first is set in 1938, during a low point in her Hollywood career, and the second in 1983, when she has “retired” and is battling physical problems.

Carlyn Connolly stars as Katharine Hepburn in at the Ivoryton Playhouse. Tea at Five

Photo courtesy of the Ivoryton Playhouse , now at Ivoryton Playhouse through Sunday, June 8, is a one-person show whose title reflects a Hepburn family tradition from her childhood: the daily tea and conversation at 5 p.m.

Tea at Five

Comedy, Mythology, and Live on CNN

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

Aisle ON THE

Maybe Happy Ending Death Becomes Her Buena Vista Social Club

Spamalot

Annie’s Composer

Annie Bye-Bye Birdie

A Comedic Look at the Von Trapps

The Sound of Music

: Baroness Els Schraeder is a minor character in ; the woman who was supposed to marry the Captain. Now, Connecticut’s own playwright, Jacques Lamarre, has written

The Baroness: what happens when the jilted fiancé plots revenge

. Its world premiere is at West Hartford’s Playhouse on Park from Wednesday, June 4, through Sunday, June 22. For tickets, contact Playhouse OnPark.org.

Care Giving in the Digital Age

Your Name Means a Dream

: TheaterWorks-Hartford is ending its season with by José Rivera, who was an Oscar-nominee. The press materials describe the play as set in the not-too-distant future when an elderly woman finds her new caregiver is not quite human. The play runs from Tuesday, June

3, to Sunday, July 6. You can get tickets at TWHartford.org.

Not So Mythic

Golden Boy

Applause

Hurricane Diane

: Hartford Stage’s final production of the season, , reimagines Greek mythology in a suburban New Jersey setting. The play runs from Thursday, June 5, through Sunday, June 29. It is described as a “smart, funny, and thought-provoking look at how we connect with the planet.”

Avenue Q

Avenue Q

: Center Stage in Shelton presents the award-winning musical, , from Friday, June 6, through Sunday, June 15. The show, about a college grad who moves to a shabby New York apartment, and finds friends who help him discover his purpose in life. For tickets, visit CenterStageShelton.org

Going on Tour

: Some musicals have announced national tours for 2025. They

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

THURSDAY, MAY 29

Community Open House

: 4 to 6 p.m. Vicki G. Duffy Pavilion, 155 College St., Old Saybrook. Hosted by the Friends of the Vicki Duffy Pavilion. Features a gathering to celebrate the pavilion with stories, refreshments, and community connection. Open to the public. For info, email saveduffypavilion@gmail.com.

Growing Mountain Laurels

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by Felicia Millet, a plant diagnostician with the Department of Plant Pathology and Ecology at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. Features a discussion of the history of these native plants, cultivar descriptions, tips on planting, and the pests and diseases to look out for. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

The Estuary Outreach Series

Annie All in the Family Bonnie and Clyde

Live on CNN

Good Night and Good Luck

include the current Broadway shows, , , and . Also planning on a national tour is the revival of . : Charles Strouse, who composed and which both won Tony Awards, has died at the age of 96. But he wasn’t a two-hit wonder. Strouse also composed , that starred Sammy Davis, Jr., and starring Lauren Bacall, among other shows. Most people know at least one of his songs – “Tomorrow” from , but he also wrote “A Lot of Livin’ to Do” as well as the theme song for and the film score for . : You can see George Clooney’s Tony-nominated performance in (the play is also Tony-nominated) without having to move from your living room. It will be aired live on Saturday, June 7, on CNN at 7 pm. I saw the play; it is thought-provoking.

NYC Award Winners

: While the Tony Awards won’t be presented until Sunday, June 8, other groups have announced their winners. These can sometimes indicate a

Maybe Happy Ending

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Hosted by The Estuary, a community-focused organization that provides vital programs and services for older adults. The event aims to introduce The Estuary's mission, highlight its available services, and engage in discussions with community members about the challenges facing the organization, including the funding crisis for the Meals on Wheels program. For info, visit yourestuary.org.

Concert by The Sweet Remains

: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 30

Witness Stones Installation Ceremony

: 10 to 11 a.m.

Phoebe Griffin Noyes Public Library, 2 Library Ln, Old Lyme. Features music, poetry, and words from community partners. Keynote speaker: Kate Rushin, professor of English and poet-in-residence at Connecticut College. Other participants include Dennis Culliton, co-founder of the Witness Stones Project; Michelle Dean, director of

trend. picked up four awards from the Outer Critics Circle (best musical, outstanding book and score of a musical, and outstanding direction). The group also named as outstanding play. The Drama League also named as best musical as well as for best direction, with as best revival of a musical.

John Proctor is the Villain

Maybe Happy Ending Sunset Blvd. Ragtime

Time for Ragtime

: Goodspeed is presenting an excellent production of , one of my favorite musicals. Now Lincoln Center has announced a revival of the show beginning in September. It will star Joshua Henry as Coalhouse Walker, Jr., Caissie Levy as Mother, and Brandon Urbanowicz as Tateh. The three were in the acclaimed NYC City Center Encores! concert in 2023.

Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.

To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women, and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Calendar for the Week of May 29, 2025

curriculum at the Lyme-Old Lyme Public Schools; Martha Shoemaker, Old Lyme first selectwoman; and Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School poets and select chorus. For info, visit witnessstonesoldlyme.org.

Bunny

: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Features a short play based on the story by Mo Willems. Presented by the Grove School Children’s Theater Troupe. For families with young children. No registration required. For info, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.accountsupport.com.

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.

Movie Matinee

: 3 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free and open to all. No registration is needed. For info, including the movie title, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

See page 29

Knuffle

Immersive Long Wharf Theatre Exhibition Now Open

Invita-

tion to Engage: 60 Years of Long Wharf Theatre & Beyond

Theater fans, rejoice! A new multi-gallery exhibition is bringing the vibrant history of Long Wharf Theatre to life at the New Haven Museum (NHM). , which opened on May 21, invites visitors into an immersive celebration of stage royalty, featuring costumes, posters, and rare archival treasures. The exhibition will remain on view through February 2026.

Spanning three museum spaces—the NHM’s elegant upper rotunda, gray gallery, and center gallery— invites guests to step inside six decades of theatrical history. Attendees can try on costumes, explore immersive set recreations, flip through original scripts, and engage with interactive rehearsal spaces. A dedicated gallery also spotlights the next generation of Long Wharf Theatre artists.

Dozens of original production photos, programs, and archival gems take center stage in the rotunda. Jessica Durdock Moreno, Long Wharf Theatre’s chief of staff and the exhibition’s project manager, delves into the context and resonance of productions from 1965 to today.

In the gray gallery, visitors can explore a reconstructed rehearsal room, handle props, try on past costumes, and view the Tony Award that helped define Long Wharf Theatre’s legacy.

Invitation to Engage El Coquí Espectacular and the Bottle of Doom

The center gallery highlights the theatre’s 60th anniversary season, inviting guests into the world of and encouraging them to craft their own stories and contribute artwork to a communal gallery wall. The season’s theme, “Building Our Future Together,” serves as both inspiration and invitation.

“When we began shaping this exhibition, we wanted to do more than just look back—we wanted to create something that feels alive,” said Moreno. “Every script, every photo, carries a story. This is a chance to honor the artists and audiences who built this legacy, while also inviting our

The Gin Game The Shadow Box Wit

telling. More than 30 Long Wharf productions have transferred to Broadway and Off-Broadway, including three Pulitzer Prize winners: , , and . The theatre received a Regional Theatre Tony Award for its achievements and has earned Connecticut Critics Circle honors across multiple categories.

Now in a transformative new phase, Long Wharf Theatre is redefining what it means to make theatre accessible and community-driven. No longer tied to a single venue, the company is bringing live performance to unexpected spaces throughout Greater New Haven. In 2023 alone, residents experienced productions in seven towns and neighborhoods at free or affordable prices. The 2024 season continues this innovative approach with projects ranging from A View from the Bridge at Canal Dock Boathouse to celebrations of the 60th anniversary. This movement aims to connect neighbors through storytelling and shared experience.

community to imagine what comes next.”

Let Me Down Easy Wit

Exhibition highlights include more than 100 enlarged production photos spanning six decades; never-before-seen rehearsal photographs; autographed show posters featuring A-list performers; hand-painted set-design renderings; and archival materials such as scripts, costume and prop bibles, and stage manager binders from landmark productions like Anna Deavere Smith’s and the Pulitzer Prize–winning . Also on view are programs from the theatre’s inaugural season, a handwritten subscription ledger, displays from costume stock, and multimedia elements including audio clips from artist interviews and videos of special projects.

Since 2023, Long Wharf Theatre has pioneered a new model of presenting work in 26 venues across seven cities.

“No longer confined to a single stage, the company is expanding its reach, transforming unexpected locations into places of performance, and bringing the-

atre to audiences where they are,” said Artistic Director Jacob G. Padrón. He noted that the interactive exhibition reflects the theatre’s bold evolution. “ honors six decades of transformative theatre-making while casting a bold vision for the road ahead.”

Haven icon and a pillar of American regional theater.”

Invitation to Engage

“We’re delighted to celebrate this milestone with Long Wharf Theatre,” said NHM Executive Director Margaret Anne Tockarshewsky. “This exhibition is more than a retrospective; it’s a bridge connecting the past, present, and future of one of New Haven’s most influential cultural institutions. It reminds us how theatre can reflect our world, challenge us, and bring us together.”

Jason Bischoff-Wurstle, director of NHM’s photo archives, coordinated the exhibition at the museum. “It’s been wonderful to welcome Long Wharf Theatre to the New Haven Museum,” he said. “Through daily collaboration with their incredible team, this exhibit offers a vast and intimate look at the legacy of a true New

In addition to the exhibition, Long Wharf Theatre is offering a robust calendar of community events across New Haven. The programming includes workshops, readings, parties, pop-ups, virtual programs, and a mobile museum experience that will bring the story to neighborhoods across the city.

The Crucible

Founded on July 4, 1965, with Arthur Miller’s , Long Wharf Theatre emerged as a cornerstone of America’s regional theatre movement. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Jacob G. Padrón, the company has produced more than 400 works, from beloved musicals and classic plays to world premieres by groundbreaking playwrights such as Anna Deavere Smith, Paula Vogel, Lloyd Suh, and Dominique Morisseau. Long Wharf Theatre is internationally recognized for its commitment to commissioning, developing, and producing new plays that expand the boundaries of American story-

The New York Times The Washington Post American Theatre PBS NewsHour

Long Wharf Theatre’s pioneering model has garnered national attention in , , magazine, and . Padrón was named among Town & Country’s 2023 “Creative Aristocracy” and was honored as 2023 Person of the Year by the National Theatre Conference, joining the ranks of August Wilson, Lloyd Richards, and Joseph Papp.

Since its founding as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862, the New Haven Museum has preserved, interpreted, and celebrated the heritage of Greater New Haven. Located at 114 Whitney Avenue in downtown New Haven, the museum brings over 375 years of local history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs, and outreach. As a Blue Star Museum, the NHM offers free admission year-round to active-duty military personnel and their families, including members of the National Guard and Reserve. Learn more at newhavenmuseum.org or follow @NewHavenMuseum. For more information, call 203-562-4183.

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

Photo by T Charles Erickson

Exhibition highlights include enlarged production photos spanning six decades; never-before-seen rehearsal photographs; autographed show posters featuring A-list performers; hand-painted set-design renderings; and archival materials such as scripts, costume and prop bibles, and stage manager binders.

Page Turners

TheEmperorofGladness By

OceanVuong

An old woman stops a young man from jumping off a bridge, and what follows is a portrait of humanity, the good and the bad. This novel is a masterclass in craft, with lyrical prose and a tone that perfectly balances the comic and the tragic. Reading this will break your heart and give you so, so much hope. Bonus: it takes place in Connecticut!

— Marisa, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Every other week, we invite local booksellers to submit suggestions for the best books on shelves now—it’s all part of our mission to keep our readers informed, up-to-date, and entertained. View previous Page Turners at www.zip06.com/pageturners.

TheDevilThreeTimes

ByRickeyFayne

The Devil Three Times is an epic, genre-bending debut from Fayne. I knew from the goosebumps that broke out after reading the first three pages that this would be one of my favorite books of the year. Yetunde wakes on a slave ship headed for the US, and she strikes a deal with the Devil himself- who agrees to protect Yetunde, and in turn her bloodline, if it means he can get right with God. I loved the way the Devil was characterized, it was so unlike anything I’ve read before. Following eight generations of Yetunde’s family, Fayne created original and exceptionally clear voices for each character that I truly adored. You will run through a gamut of emotions while reading this creative and thought-provoking piece. I can’t wait to read what Rickey Fayne writes next!

— Maeve, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

TheNames

ByFlorenceKnapp

What’s in a name? Perhaps absolutely everything. This beautiful, painful story imagines how a boy’s life will play out if he is named after his abusive father, if he’s given a name favored by his mother, or if his sister names him. It’s a fascinating concept and would make for a great book club discussion.

— Karen, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

FeverBeach

ByCarlHiaasen

No one does crazy Florida better than Carl! This new one may seem extra unhinged, but no more so than what’s going on in our mad world! Enter a notso-bright white supremacist, a congressman with some very bad habits, and a few flawed but principled nemeses for the offenders. Enjoy this gleefully hilarious ride through some spectacular comeuppances!

— Julie A., R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Page Turners

Continued from page 28

Continued from page 26

Author Event: Martha Hall Kelly in Conversation with Beatriz Williams

: 6 p.m.

R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book:

The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club

. Cost: $5 includes admission for one with the ticket serving as $5 coupon toward purchase of a copy of the book at the event or $30 admission for one and a copy of the book. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features an introductory seminar for the non-martial artist interested in developing wisdom in life and property protection to pair with their instinct to fight back. Presented by Stephen Watson, a martial arts instructor who trained under Bruce Walker, founder of the Silent Dragon School of Kung Fu and Tai Chi. No martial arts or athletic experience required. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

TheDarkMaestro

ByBrendanSlocumb

The prologue of this book had me hooked! I needed to find out more and fast. Slocumb expertly weaves together classical music, comic books, and drug dealers in a unique thriller that I loved. I really had no idea how the story was going to play out, which kept me invested and the pages turning.

— Julie G., R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

JVs.K

ByKwameAlexanderandJerryCraft

Pick this up because they are two blockbuster authors, but stay for the jokes, the friendship, and the final twist. I loved every page!

— Jamie, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

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

SATURDAY, MAY 31 RiverQuest

10 a.m. to noon. Connecticut River Museum (CRM), 67 Main St. Features a cruise on , departing from the dock at the CRM to view the Inner and Outer Lighthouses on the Connecticut River. Cost: $45. For info or to register, visit ctrivermuseum.org.

The Wampanoag Legend of Baby Maushop

: 10 a.m. Munger Barn at The Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd. Features Robert Peters, a Native American artist and author of . His artwork will also be on exhibit and for sale in the yellow Munger Barn. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/events.

Big Baby

RemarkablyBrightCreatures

ByShelbyVanPelt

Just out in paperback, this is a remarkably delightful novel you don’t want to miss. The story follows Tova, an elderly widow, who forms an unlikely friendship with Marcellus, a Pacific octopus at the aquarium where she works. The story is told from three points of view: Tova, Marcellus, and Cameron, a young man new to town looking for his father. This is a story of love, loss, grief, friendship, and healing, and a remarkable bond between animals and humans. Also, a mystery is uncovered that will pique your interest. Highly recommend.

— Sue, Breakwater Books, Guilford

See page 30

Prepare Your Inner Mama Bear

Concert by Tom Rush

Lighthouse Cruise to Old Saybrook

A Musical Tribute to Stephen Schwartz

Madison Lyric Stage will celebrate the music of legendary composer Stephen Schwartz with , a concert running June 20 to 22 under the theater tent on the grounds of the historic Deacon John Grave House.

We’ve Got Magic to Do: The Music of Stephen Schwartz

The performance will feature a cast of eight vocalists and a live band, performing selections from Schwartz’s most iconic works, including , , and , as well as music from his acclaimed film scores for and

Wicked Pippin Godspell The Hunchback of Notre Dame The Prince of Egypt

The show highlights more than five decades of Schwartz’s contributions to American musical theater, with familiar favorites such as “All Good Gifts,” “Corner of the Sky,” “Day by Day,” “Defying Gravity,” “For Good,” “Meadowlark,” “Magic to Do,” “Morning Glow,” and “Popular.”

“We are thrilled to honor Stephen Schwartz, whose extraordinary contributions have profoundly shaped the world of musical theater,” said Marc Deaton, artistic director of Madison Lyric Stage. “Our production will celebrate his enduring legacy, and we invite everyone to join us for a night of unforgettable performances.”

The concert is directed by Deaton, with musical direction by Nathaniel Baker.

Show The Baker’s Wife Working Rags Children of Eden Pocahontas The Hunchback of Notre Dame Enchanted

Schwartz’s Broadway credits also include , , , , and . He has collaborated with composer Alan Menken on scores for Disney films including , , and . His accolades include three Academy Awards, four Grammy Awards, and a Tony Award. He is a member of both the Theater Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Performances will be held Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Deacon John Grave House, 581 Boston Post Road. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased at madisonlyricstage.org.

The 2025 season will continue with Peter Shaffer’s Amadeus in July and August, followed by Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Medium in September.

Continued from page 29

Met in

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 215 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

: 1 p.m. Madison Cinemas, 761 Boston Post Rd. Running time: 215 minutes with an intermission. Shoreline Opera Club will lead a 30minute talk-back after the broadcast. For info or tickets, call 203-245-2456 or visit madisoncinemas2.com.

: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

John Grave House.

Madison Lyric Stage is a professional non-Equity theater company that presents accessible, inclusive, and affordable opera, musical theater, and drama to the Connecticut shoreline. It is supported in part by The Commu-

Container Gardening

: 1 to 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to children in kindergarten to grade 3. Sponsored by the Old Saybrook Garden Club. For info or to register (required), visit actonlibrary.org/events.

Author Event: Christina E. Cole

: 4 to 5:30 p.m. Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum. Book:

Connecticut: Quaint, Historic Barns and Farms of the Nutmeg State

. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.

Sweet Saturday Nights: Rennie and Sherrill

: 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.

nity Foundation for Greater New Haven, Guilford Savings Bank, The Madison Foundation, the Madison Rotary Foundation, and the Connecticut Office of the Arts. For more information, visit madisonlyricstage.org.

Performance by Resurrection of Screamin' Jay Hawkins Band

: 8 p.m. Scottish Dave's Pub, 24 E Main St., Clinton. Cost: $25. For info, contact 860-552-4727 or mjajazz@optonline.net.

Concert by Ronnie Earl and the Broadcasters

: 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.

Family Astronomy Night

: 8:30 p.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by the Astronomical Society of New Haven, Shoreline Astronomical Society, and Thames Amateur Astronomical Society. Registration not required. Sponsored by the Friends of Hammonasset. Bring binoculars if preferred. Cover flashlights with red cellophane or red plastic to preserve everyone’s night vision. For info, call 203-245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.

The Magic

Press Release from Madison Lyric Stage

Photo courtesy of Madison Lyric Stage

Madison Lyric Stage will celebrate the music of legendary composer Stephen Schwartz with We’ve Got Magic to Do: The Music of Stephen Schwartz, a concert running June 20 to 22 under the theater tent on the grounds of the historic Deacon

Witness Stones Old Lyme to Install 12 New Plaques

In the final year of its five-year project, Witness Stones Old Lyme will install 12 new plaques commemorating the lives of enslaved African Americans in the region. The small brass markers, known as Witness Stones, will be placed in late May at the Sill Lane Green and the Florence Griswold Museum.

This year’s plaques will honor Prince Freeman, Sabina Freeman, Jordan Freeman, Caesar, Prince, Cesar, Zacheus Still, Philis, Dorcas, Lewis, Robin Freeman, and an unnamed woman listed in records only as “Negro Woman.” The additions bring the total number of Witness Stones in Old Lyme to 60. Previous plaques were installed between 2021 and 2024 on Lyme Street, McCurdy Road, Old Shore Road, and at the Lyme Public Library.

To commemorate the new installations and celebrate Juneteenth, the Old Lyme Witness Stones Partnership will host two free public events:

The Witness Stones Installation Ceremony will be held Friday, May 30, from 10 to 11 a.m. on the lawn of the Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library, 2 Library Lane. The program will include music, poetry, and remarks from community partners. The keynote speaker is Kate Rushin, professor of English and poet in residence at Connecticut College. Additional speakers and participants include Dennis Culliton, cofounder of the Witness Stones

Continued from page 30

SUNDAY, JUNE

1

Project; Michelle Dean, director of curriculum at Lyme-Old Lyme Public Schools; Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker; and student poets and singers from Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School.

On Saturday, June 22, from 2 to 4 p.m., the Juneteenth Celebration with Jazz and Poetry will take place on the north lawn of the Florence Griswold Museum, 96 Lyme St. The program will feature acclaimed bassist and composer Avery Sharpe and his quartet, along with Connecticut poets Marilyn Nelson, Kate Rushin, Rhonda Ward, and Antoinette Brim-Bell. Sharpe’s quartet includes Zaccai Curtis on piano, Haneef Nelson on trumpet, and Yoron Israel on drums. Seating will be provided under a tent, and attendees are welcome to bring additional lawn chairs. In case of rain, the event will move to the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, 2 Ferry Road.

Following the celebration, the Florence Griswold Museum will offer free admission from 3 to 5 p.m. for visitors to view the final day of Their Kindred Earth: Photographs by William Earle Williams, an exhibition that explores sites of enslavement in Old Lyme and beyond. Williams will be present to sign copies of the exhibition catalogue, which will be available for purchase.

Witness Stones Old Lyme is part of a growing national coalition of communities working to restore history and honor the lives of those once enslaved. The project is a local initiative of the

Westbrook Spring Arts and Crafts Fair

: 10 a.m. to

4 p.m. Westbrook Town Green, 1196 Boston Post Rd. Features a juried arts and crafts fair with over 60 skilled artisans exhibiting painting, jewelry, baskets, pottery, woodcraft, needlecraft, floral arrangements, clothing, accessories, candles, soaps and oils, and more. Free admission and parking. For info, visit WestbrookSpringArtsCraftsFair.yolasite.com.

For Home and Country

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Presented by the Old Saybrook Historical Society. Based on

Saturday, June 22,

Witness Stones Project, a nonprofit that helps communities memorialize individuals once held in bondage through historical research and public art. In Old Lyme, each Witness Stone is embedded flush with the ground and includes the name and life details of an enslaved person, drawn from historical documents such as land records and emancipation certificates. An interpretive sign on the lawn of the Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library

includes a map of plaque locations throughout the town. The project has been made possible through support from the Lyme-Old Lyme community, including schools, museums, churches, and civic organizations. Founding partners include the Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library, Florence Griswold Museum, Lyme-Old Lyme Schools, and the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme. Additional partners include the Roger Tory Peterson

Estuary Center, St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, Lymes’ Youth Services Bureau, and the Old Lyme Historical Society.

The partnership has received funding from the Health Improvement Collaborative of Southeastern Connecticut Partnership Grant for Racial Equity and the Connecticut Arts Council. For more information, visit www.WitnessStonesOldLyme. org.

For Home and Country: An American Family and the Second World War

the book, by Brett Martin. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Seabreeze: A Nautical-Themed Artisan Reception

: 1 to

4 p.m. Connecticut River Artisans, 55 Main St., Essex. Features the work of four artisans on display and available for purchase. For info, call 860-767-5457.

Pratt House Opening for 2025 Summer Season

: 1 to

4 p.m. Pratt House, 19 West Ave., Essex. The museum will be open on Saturdays and Sundays, June through September, from 1 to 4 p.m. Includes free tours of the historic home and two exhibit spaces featuring objects and photographs from the town’s past. The first rotating exhibit will be about blacksmithing, the Pratt family

trade. Hosted by the Essex Historical Society. For info, visit essexhistory.org.

Concert by California Guitar Trio and Kaki King

: 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.

MONDAY, JUNE 2

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

Il Barbiere di Siviglia

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Open to all. For info, email

See page 32

Press Release from Witness Stones Old Lyme

Photo courtesy of Zaccai Curtis

On

the Juneteenth Celebration with Jazz and Poetry will feature Avery Sharpe and his quartet, including Zaccai Curtis on piano.

ChoralFest 2025 Brings Together 100 Voices for Sacred Music Celebration

Press Release from the First Congregational Church of Madison

Music at the Meetinghouse, a concert series presented by the First Congregational Church of Madison, will host its third annual ChoralFest on Sunday, June 8, at 4 p.m. The sacred music festival will feature 100 voices from area church choirs performing individual anthems and three combined pieces, accompanied by piano, organ, and a string orchestra.

Held in the church’s historic Meetinghouse, ChoralFest is free and open to the public, with donations welcome.

First launched in 2023, ChoralFest was created to bring together church choirs following years of pandemic-related separation. The inaugural festival was a success, and last year’s event filled the sanctuary with nearly 130 singers and a 20-piece orchestra.

Continued from page 31

ChoralFest will feature 100 voices from area church choirs.

Author Event: Abraham Verghese

“This is an opportunity for church choirs of varying skill levels and sizes to come together in a spirit of unity to sing and support each other,” said Nathan Bayreuther, director of music ministry at the First Congregational Church of Madison. “It’s a real thrill for everyone, especially when they have the chance to sing with professional instrumentalists.”

Participating choirs represent congregations from Madison, North Madison, Guilford, North Guilford, Clinton, Westbrook, North Haven, and East Haven. The event celebrates sacred choral music across denominations and encourages fellowship through music.

ChoralFest will take place at the First Congregational Church, 26 Meetinghouse Lane, Madison. For more information, visit fccmadison.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 3

2025 Clinton Chamber Annual Breakfast Meeting

: 7 p.m. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info, call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. :

8 a.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, Green Room, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Continental breakfast by Doc's Bar & Grill begins 7:45 a.m. Agenda includes the election of new board members, election of officers, presentation of the Robert DiBona Scholarship award recipients, and legislative and local updates. For info, call 860-669-3889 or visit clintonct.com.

Met in HD Encore:

: 10 a.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 215 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

: 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.

: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Decorate a file

box with paper plates for wheels and bring it to the library for a “drive-in” movie. Participants can sit in the “car” (or on the floor) in the children’s room for the film showing. Popcorn served. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Extra Billy Smith: Controversial Confederate General on the Field of Gettysburg

: 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Acton

Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a presentation by Civil War historian Scott Mingus. Part of the Shoreline Civil War Roundtable monthly meeting. Free and open to the public. For info, contact the group’s facilitator at 860-395-1124 or olivia.jean@sbcglobal.net, or visit facebook.com/shorelinecivilwarroundtable.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4

The Concept of Reincarnation and Past Lives

: 10 a.m.

Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. Presented by Kristen White, mystic and shaman. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Author Event: Marie Bostwick

Extinctopedia: A Discovery of What We Have Lost, What is At Risk, and What To Do About It with Smithsonian Scientists

: 2 p.m. Online event. Book:

Extinctopedia: Discover What We have Lost, What is At Risk, and How We Can Preserve the Diversity of Our Fragile Planet

. Presented by Brian Gratwicke, a conservation biologist for the amphibian conservation programs at the Smithsonian National Zoo, and Gina Della Togna, executive director of the Amphibian Survival Alliance and a research associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.

The Estuary Outreach Series

: 2 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Hosted by The Estuary, a community-focused organization that provides vital programs and services for older adults. The event aims to introduce The Estuary's mission, highlight its available services, and engage in discussions with community members about the challenges facing the organization, including the funding crisis for the Meals on Wheels program. For info, visit yourestuary.org.

Chicken Caesar Wrap and S'mores Cups

The Book Club for Troublesome Women: A Novel

: 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. The Griswold Inn, 36 Main St., Essex. Book: . Features a talk and book signing. Cost: $65, includes admission to the event, a copy of the book, and luncheon. For info or to RSVP, call 860-767-0210 or visit griswoldinn.com.

: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Indian River Recreation Complex Multipurpose Room, 201 Killingworth Tpke., 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, visit the class schedule link at marysculinaryclassesllc.com.

See page 33

Photo courtesy of the First Congregational Church of Madison

Il Barbiere di Siviglia Berenstain Bears

Continued from page 32

5:30 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Presented by Joshua Toenyes, CEO of Cardsetter. Free. Hosted by SCORE Southeastern Connecticut Chapter. Series sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct/local-workshops

6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Write-in led by Old Saybrook Poet Laureate Sandra Yannone. Open mic follows. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

6 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Matt Yanarella. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Make Your Own Fused Glass Art: Pick Your Project Class

Essex Historical Society to Open Pratt House for Summer Season

enjoy a special talk on blacksmithing and visit the on-site Pratt Smithy.

The Essex Historical Society will open the historic Pratt House for the 2025 summer season beginning Sunday, June 1. The town’s only historic house museum, Pratt House will welcome visitors on Saturdays and Sundays through September, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Trained guides will offer free tours of the 300-year-old home, giving visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich past. New this year, the museum will feature two rotating exhibit spaces showcasing artifacts and photographs from Essex’s history. The first exhibit focuses on blacksmithing, the trade of the Pratt family.

Several special events are also planned for June. The front lawn will feature Art on the Lawn: Works by Horace Miller, now on display through the end of the month. As part of the Connecticut Sea Music Festival, musical performances will take place at the Pratt House on June 7 and 8.

On June 14, the museum will participate in Connecticut Open House Day, a statewide initiative encouraging residents to explore the culture and history in their own communities. That day, visitors can

The Essex Historical Society will also launch its new Connecticut History Book Club this season. In partnership with the Essex Library and the Ivoryton Library, the group’s inaugural meeting will include a discussion of The Witch of Blackbird Pond. The club will meet quarterly to explore titles that connect with local and state history.

For more information about Pratt House, upcoming events, volunteering opportunities, or the work of the Essex Historical Society, visit essexhistory.org.

The Essex Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging and inspiring the community across Essex, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton. In addition to seasonal programming in all three villages, EHS offers guided tours of the 1732 Pratt House and maintains its library, archives, and office at Hills Academy, built in 1832. Each year, EHS collaborates with more than 30 partner organizations to deliver educational programs, walking tours, speaker series, research projects, and community events. Learn more at essexhistory.org.

: 6 to 8:30 p.m. RiverFire Glass Studio at SoMA, 500 Main St., Deep River. Features a beginner to advanced-beginner class depending on what a participant prefers. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and safety glasses are required. Bring an N95 facemask in case glass powder is involved in the class. Cost: $64. Additional fee may be required depending on selected project. Service fees apply. Materials and firing included. Items will be fired in the kiln and can be picked up in seven to 10 days. For info or to register, call 860-864-5004 or visit riverfireglass.com.

Thinking Ahead: Legal and Financial Planning for Your Child's Future

: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Features speakers on special needs trusts, power of attorney and guardianships, supported decisionmaking, estate planning, financial planning, Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Hosted by the Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services. For info or to register, email Rachel Berliner at rachel@berlinerspecialedlaw.com.

Estuary aims to introduce its mission, highlight its available services, and engage in discussions with community members about the challenges facing the organization, including the funding crisis for the Meals on Wheels program. For info, visit yourestuary.org.

Watercolor Workshop

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For ages 19 and over. Participants will use the three primary colors and experiment with blending, transparency, and basic brush techniques. Materials provided. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

ONGOING EVENTS

Theater

Tea at Five:

Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. Runs through June 8. For info, call 860767-7318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.org.

Art

: Drama Works Theatre Company, 323 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Runs May 23 through June 1. For info, contact 860876-2020 or info@dramaworkstheatre.org, or visit dramaworkstheatre.org.

About Time

: The Terris Theatre, 33 N. Main St., Chester. Runs May 24 through June 15. For info, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

Farmers Market

Chester Sunday Market

: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays, June 15 through Oct. 12. Chester Center, Main St. For info, visit chestersundaymarket.jimdo.com.

Durham Farmers Market

: 9 a.m. to noon. Saturdays, June 7 through Oct. 4. Durham Community Center grounds, 144 Picket Ln., or on the Town Green. For info, email farmersmarket@townofdurhamct.org or visit townofdurhamct.org/articles/summer-farmers-market-update.

Madison Farmers’ Market

: 3 to 6 p.m.

100 Years of Hank Starring Jason Petty

: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

The Estuary Outreach Series

: 1 p.m. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. The

Fridays through Thanksgiving. Madison Green. For info, visit madisonctfarmersmarket.com.

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.

Photo courtesy of the Essex Historical Society

The Essex Historical Society will open the historic Pratt House for the 2025 summer season beginning Sunday, June 1.

Win Customers with Your Website

Wednesday Write-in and Open Mic

Crash Course Cooking: Pizza Making

estate

A Stunning Luxury Home with Water Views

Staff Report

With beautiful water views and a prime location just moments by golf cart from the prestigious Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club, this exquisite property offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and an unparalleled lifestyle that invites you to indulge in the beauty of coastal living. Discover and enjoy the nearby amenities of the private yacht club — tennis, golf, live entertainment, and dining options.

10 Island View Avenue is beautifully situated on a double, corner lot, enclosed by a classic white picket fence, enhancing its curb appeal and creating a sense of privacy. This unique home boasts three distinct levels. At the heart of the house is a custom, gourmet kitchen equipped with premium appliances, an impressive quartzite hand-crafted island with a built-in beverage fridge, and an open layout that flows seamlessly into the inviting family room.

With water views enhancing the ambiance, the central gas fireplace adds a touch of warmth and elegance to the space. Custom windows and a stunning glass wall allow natural light to flood the interior spaces. At the same time, architectural details like floor-to-ceiling columns and integrated ceiling speakers add a sophisticated touch. The living room, water views, and the dining area create the perfect setting for entertaining guests.

Upstairs is home to six distinct bedrooms, including the luxurious primary suite. This serene retreat is accessible by elevator and features an electric fireplace, a private deck with water views, and a beautifully designed ensuite bathroom.

The finished basement offers an additional 1,400 square feet of living space. This lower level leads to a heated, three-car garage, thoughtfully designed with a dedicated bay for a golf cart. Outdoors, you will find an expansive deck, beach rights, nearby trails, and a dog park. With an easy commute to Yale-New Haven, this magnificent property blends sophistication and convenience, making it a rare find you won’t want to miss.

This home is being offered for sale by William Raveis Real Estate for $2,950,000. For more information or a showing, contact Vicky Welch at 203-215-4990.

With beautiful water views and a prime location just moments by golf cart from the prestigious Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club, this exquisite property offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and an unparalleled lifestyle that invites you to indulge in the beauty of coastal living.

10 Island View Avenue, Branford Year Built: Sq. Feet: Acres: Style: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Price:

1910 4,262 0.3 Colonial 6 4 full, 1 half $2,950,000

At the heart of the house is a custom, gourmet kitchen equipped with premium appliances, an impressive quartzite hand-crafted island with a built-in beverage fridge, and an open layout that flows seamlessly into the inviting family room.

The living room, water views, and the dining area create the perfect setting for entertaining guests.

Real Estate Transactions

CHESTER

: 2010

Klicka T and Robert J. Griffin to Courtney Fox, $320,000 on April 29

: Thomas A. and Belinda N. Ahern to Douglas and Elizabeth Kartsen, $1,250,000 on May 6

: Kenneth W. and Judith A. Miller to William P. Miller, $165,000 on May 7

: Rachel Nunn to Douglas L. and Laura E. Holm, $820,000 on April 28

: Wesley H.

Miracle to Daniel Valdini, $575,000 on April 28

: Shelley A.

Deproto to Samuel and Rebecca Stamatiou, $515,000 on May 8

: David Sullivan and April Loiseau to Timothy L. and Lynne R. Okeefe, $630,250 on May 5

: Troy J. Clifton to Erik Bentley and Mallory Daley, $513,000 on May 7

Nestled at the end of a quiet cul-desac, this beautifully maintained colonial home offers the perfect blend of space, style, and natural surroundings. With 3 to 4 bedrooms, this residence provides flexibility for growing families or those seeking dedicated work-from-home spaces. The sun-filled office or studio, freshly updated with new carpeting, is ideal for creative pursuits or focused productivity.

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of May 29 - June 4

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

This week you might feel a surge of energy, Aries. It’s a good time to get moving on a long-term project or any passion projects that you may have been avoiding.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, this week is all about finding balance. You may be torn between your career and personal life, but don’t forget to set aside time for yourself.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, your creativity is at an all-time high, so use this week to explore new hobbies or start a creative project that excites you. You can be creative at work as well.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

This is a week you may feel pulled toward home and family, Cancer. It’s a time for reorganizing your space or even simply enjoying quiet moments however you choose.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, your communication skills that will be on display this week. It’s a great time to express your ideas and connect with other people. Start that conversation.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Pay attention to your budgeting and spending this week, Virgo. There may be opportunities to invest your money in a wiser way. Finances will be on your mind a lot.

MAY 29

Mel B, Singer (50)

MAY 30

Idina Menzel, Actress (54)

MAY 31

Clint Eastwood, Director (95)

JUNE 1

Heidi Klum, Model (52)

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you may feel like the spotlight is on you right now. Either at work or in social settings, your leadership abilities will be put to the test and on display.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

This might be a week that calls for introspection, Scorpio. Although you might feel like retreating, don’t close yourself off entirely from others for too long.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Connections with friends and groups will be front and center this week, Sagittarius. You might receive an unexpected invitation and make new friends who share your interests.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you should prioritize your professional goals over the next few days. Might there be something you can do to land a promotion or step into a leadership role?

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

This week may present opportunities for learning, exploring or even travel. A spontaneous trip might be just what you need to recharge and reflect on yourself, Aquarius.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

It’s time to put some effort into making deeper connections and fostering your relationships, Pisces. That requires spending a little more time with the people around you.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JUNE 2

Ethan Slater, Actor (33)

JUNE 3

Rafael Nadal, Athlete (39)

JUNE 4

Angelina Jolie, Actress (50)

CLUES ACROSS

1. Bring up

7. Child

10. Formal written defense

12. Bangladeshi currency

13. Burial site

14. In the lead

15. Large recesses in a church

16. Count on

17. Defunct phone company

18. Golf scores

19. Afflicts

21. Defensive nuclear weapon

22. Prominence

27. “The Great Lakes State”

28. SoCal ballplayer

33. Location of White House

34. Magnificence

36. Hip hop songstress

37. Capital of Yemen

38. __ Blyton, children’s author

39. Bomb

40. Pancake made of buckwheat flour

41. Pinkish-violet color

44. A way to make right

45. Monument to one buried elsewhere

48. Region south of Dead Sea

49. Acts out against

50. Harsh cry of a crow

51. Formal title for a woman

CLUES DOWN

1. Kitchen devices 2. Wings

3. Mythological birds

4. Everyone has one

5. Matchstick game

6. Bar bill

7. Weights

8. Satisfactorily

9. Small amount

10. Tree types

11. Small protuberances

12. Equivalent of 100K BTU

14. Type of horse

17. More (Spanish)

18. Argentinian province

20. A bad act

23. Moving in a circular way

24. Battery type

25. Atomic #58

26. Popular breakfast food

29. An alternative

30. Tooth caregiver

31. A way to conform

32. Disfigured men

35. Cool!

36. Genus of mosses

38. Body part

40. Kashmiri people

41. Round water pot

42. Something to purchase

43. Emit coherent radiation

44. Indicates 10

45. Advertising metric

46. Pitching stat

47. Head movement

Word Search

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

CAUGHT READING WORD SEARCH

APPENDIX AUDIO AUTHOR BIBLIOGRAPHY BINDING BLURB BOOKS

BOOKSTORE BORROW CHAPTER EDITION E-READER GENRE HARDCOVER ILLUSTRATION

IMAGINATION

INTEREST LIBRARY NONFICTION PAGE

READING SHELVES SPINE STORYTELLER

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for May 22, 2025: COVER-UP

Word Search solution for May 22, 2025

Sea Music Festival Returns to Essex June

The fourth annual Connecticut Sea Music Festival will return to downtown Essex Friday, June 6, to Monday, June 9, offering a weekend of maritime music, history, and family-friendly fun along the Connecticut River.

The festival will feature free daytime concerts and workshops with local, regional, and international maritime performers. Highlights include a symposium on the music of the sea, a family stage, traditional sailor skill demonstrations, Irish currach rowing, and late-night chantey sings at the Griswold Inn and the Essex Corinthian Yacht Club. A revival-style hymn sing will take place Sunday morning.

Evening concerts at the Connecticut River Museum are ticketed events. Visitors can stroll along Main Street with an ice cream cone and enjoy sea chanteys and maritime tunes from around the globe.

For full schedule details and to purchase evening concert tickets, visit ctseamusicfest.org. The festival also shares updates on Facebook at facebook.com/CTSeaMusicFest and on Instagram @ct_sea_music_festival.

The Connecticut Sea Music Festival is organized by the Maritime Music & Tradition Society Corp., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The event is made possible by major sponsorship from Privé-Swiss, with additional support from the Connecticut Office of the Arts, the Folk Music Society of New York, 4Imprint, the Paul Foundation, the Griswold Inn, and the Essex Corinthian Yacht Club.

For more information, email contact@ctsea musicfest.org.

Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Sea Music Festival

Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Sea Music Festival

The fourth annual Connecticut Sea Music Festival will return to downtown Essex Friday, June 6, to Monday, June 9.

The fourth annual Connecticut Sea Music Festival will return to downtown Essex Friday, June 6, to Monday, June 9.

6–9

Press Release from the Connecticut Sea Music Festival

Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Sea Music Festival

The fourth annual Connecticut Sea Music Festival will return to downtown Essex Friday, June 6, to Monday, June 9.

Peter, Resident Since 2022

Leave the chores to us. You’ll have more time and energy to spend on hobbies, explore new interests, share experiences with friends - whatever moves you - with a move to Essex Meadows.

Leave the chores to us. You’ll have more time and energy to spend on hobbies, explore new interests, share experiences with friends — whatever moves you — with a move to Essex Meadows

Leave the chores to us. You’ll have more time and energy to spend on hobbies, explore new interests, share experiences with friends — whatever moves you — with a move to Essex Meadows. (860) 581-4601 ESSEXMEADOWS.COM

Leave the chores to us. You’ll have more time and energy to spend on hobbies, explore new interests, share experiences with friends — whatever moves you — with a move to Essex Meadows

Essex Meadows is honored to be nominated for Best on the Shoreline in the Independent Retirement Living category. On behalf of our community thank you for voting for us!

(860) 581-4601 ESSEXMEADOWS.COM

Peter, Resident Since 2022

Peter, Resident Since 2022