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August 27, 2026

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Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXVI Iss. 35

Foundation Funds ASL Board at Essex Elementary Press Release from the Essex Foundation

The Essex Foundation Board of Directors awarded a $6,000 grant to the Essex Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) to fund the design, materials, and installation of an American Sign Language (ASL) communication board at the Essex Elementary School playground in Centerbrook.

Production of the sign was completed in August before the start of the new school year. Essex Elementary serves a diverse student population, including deaf and hard of hearing children who are fully mainstreamed into the school community. While classrooms strive to provide inclusive and accessible learning environments, the play-

ground lacked tools to support communication for all students, according to the foundation. The ASL communication board provides a visual and interactive way for students of all hearing abilities to communicate using basic signs, symbols, and shared language. The See Foundation Funds page 4

Here Comes the Sun June Pena, 6, carries a bouquet of sunflowers as she walks down Main Street with her mother, Gemma Pena, during the Chester Sunday Market on Aug. 23. The weekly market brings vendors and shoppers to downtown Chester throughout the summer.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Valley Courier

George Garner is leading a new generation of service.....................2

Scoring Surge Deep River Horseshoe League falls just two points shy of its single-night scoring record as the Giants hold first place.....................................29

Remembering the Revolution New research reveals the identities of Norwich’s long-mysterious French casualties........................19

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AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

George Garner: A New Generation of Service By Pam Young Correspondent

George Garner was looking for a way to become more involved in the Chester community when a member of the Chester Rotary Club invited him to join. At the time, George was working as branch manager at KeyBank in Ivoryton. He considered joining a business organization, but the Rotary’s focus on service appealed to him instead. “I could have joined a chamber and taken the business route, but the Rotary 100% gives back to the town and its community,” George says. “I have made so many connections and feel we really do make a difference.” Now, George has an opportunity to help shape what comes next for the organization. He officially became president of the Chester Rotary in July, taking on leadership of the 22-member club and hoping to attract a younger generation of volunteers. “I think I can help revamp and streamline things, making events

Person

of the Week better using digital media and trying to recruit younger blood to come in and breathe life into this club,” George says. Originally from Southern California, George came to Chester about 10 years ago and is now a New London resident. His work in banking kept him connected to the Valley, first at KeyBank in Ivoryton and now as a business relationship managing director with Webster Bank, covering a large portion of Connecticut. He is also working toward a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Southern New Hampshire University. For George, banking and Rotary service share an emphasis on helping people and businesses in the communities around him.

“I was looking for something where I could make an impact on the community and on people,” he says of his decision to pursue banking. “Nothing else that I have done has felt as satisfying.” He says the work has allowed him to see customers through milestones including buying their first homes and navigating other challenges. On the business side, he works with owners seeking to grow their companies and sees how those businesses connect with their employees and customers. “It is all integrated, and I get to give back to those who are around,” George says. He found a similar sense of connection after joining the Chester Rotary. George came aboard as the club was dedicating the pavilion in Chester and has since become involved in its events and proPhoto courtesy of George Garner grams, including scholarships for local students. George Garner took over as president of the Chester Rotary Club in July, with plans to build on the club’s community service while attracting

See George Garner page 9 a new generation of members.

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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Inside Living

From Page to Stage The Snow Goose makes the long journey from beloved novella to new Goodspeed musical.....................................................................................................................25 Turn the Page The latest crop of Page Turners has arrived.......................................................................22 Raise Your Voice Shoreline Soul brings singers together for a new season of gospel music...........24

Quote

of the week

“I was looking for something where I could make an impact on the community and on people. Nothing else that I have done has felt as satisfying.” — George Garner.............2

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Index Obituaries............................................ 5 Horoscopes.......................................10 Crossword Puzzle...........................10 Real Estate.........................................12 Classifieds..........................................14 Sudoku...............................................18 Living..................................................19 Calendar.............................................21 Sports..................................................29 Tides....................................................31

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Essex, Chester, & Deep River’s Hometown Newspaper

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

DRES Student Wins Three Invention Awards Staff Report

Deep River Elementary School sixthgrade student Alex Tessier won three awards at the 2026 Invention Convention State Finals for her invention, the Dual Rainfall Impact Project (DRIP), which uses pressure from rainfall to produce electricity. Tessier received the Society of Women Engineers Innovation Award, which recognizes young female inventors for achievement in engineering, and the RTX Dependable Power Award, which recognizes creative uses of power. She also received the Troutman Pepper Locke Excellence in STEM Award, which recognizes inventors whose projects are determined to have an exceptional opportunity to secure intellectual property rights. The award includes pro bono legal services to submit applications to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Submitted photo Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Editorial Staff

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor Ext. 6141

Alicia Gomez Assistant Editor

Deep River Elementary School sixth-grader Alex Tessier displays her Dual Rainfall Impact Project (DRIP), which earned three awards at the 2026 Invention Convention State Finals. The invention uses pressure from rainfall to produce electricity.

Foundation Funds ASL Board at Essex Elementary Continued from page 1

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Eric O’Connell Staff Reporter

Aaron Rubin Staff Reporter

board supports deaf and hard of hearing students in expressing themselves and engaging with peers while also encouraging hearing students to learn ASL. “We are extremely grateful for The Essex Foundation’s help in bringing this important initiative to life and fostering a more inclusive, supportive, and connected environment,” stated Essex Elementary School PTO member Mikaela Zito. The Essex Foundation President Strickland Hyde III said the playground serves families beyond the school community.

“The Essex Elementary School playground has long been a recreational gathering spot for families throughout the year. The Foundation is always happy to support inclusivity for our young students as well as the greater community,” Hyde added. The Essex Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that relies on bequests and donations from the community to provide funding for a range of needs not met by other organizations or sources. More information can be found at www.theessexfoundation.org or by emailing contact@theessexfoundation.org.

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Obituaries

Contacting Valley Courier

Obituary

Glenn Hall Clinton Glenn Alan Hall (1964-2026), 61, of Clinton, passed away unexpectedly at YNHH as a result of injuries sustained in a fire on March 2, 2026. Glenn was the youngest son of Eileen (Murray) Hall and Frederick Hall of Ivoryton. Glenn was employed as a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier in Deep River/Killingworth. His family is comforted by many kind words from his former customers.

Glenn was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his siblings, Mary (Merrill) Perkins of Ivoryton and David (Joy) Hall of Madison; nieces, Katherine (Brandon Moroch) Hall of Colchester and Hannah (Seth) Mitchell of Deep River; nephew Austin Hall; great-nephew Brody Mitchell; and his good friend Sandy Hajek and her son John. Special thanks to Sandy Hajek and Jayne Haynes for the support you provided to Glenn. Graveside service was held Aug. 20, 2026 (Glenn’s birthday), at Centerbrook Cemetery; Rev. Merrill Perkins to officiate.

Obituary

Andrew Pike Ivoryton Andrew Charles Pike passed away at his home in Ivoryton, at the young age of 36. He leaves behind his loving parents, Sue and Charlie Pike; his sister Chelsea Krzeminski; brother-in-law Andrew Krzeminski; his Aunt Charlot; and his cousin and close friend Meagan Pike. Andrew also leaves behind his grade school friend of many years, Louis Church, whose young children lovingly knew him as Uncle Andrew. Also left navigating a world without Andrew is the family cat Little Bit, his beloved pet Spaz, the bearded dragon, and lastly, his dog and closest companion, Loki. Andrew was predeceased by his mentor and friend, Jerry Clark, a man he held close in his heart; his adolescent friend JJ Peloquin, who never left his mind; as well as his rabbit Bubba; and his bestest boy Ben. Andrew marched to the tune of his own drum, loudly, preferably with retro amps, wherever he went. He lived life eclectically and boldly. In a peoplepleasing world, Andrew was always himself. Andrew had many talents, and with that, he left his mark in many

communities. He was a gearhead from a young age, with bicycles, tractors, mopeds, automobiles of all kinds, and anything that would burn rubber—with his 1962 Mercury Meteor being his pride and joy. There also wasn’t an electronic he couldn’t fix. Andrew loved nature, being on the river, and cruising down dirt roads. He landscaped professionally and did so with heart and pride. Andrew’s clients were very important to him, not as customers, but as people. Andrew’s love for animals started as an infant, with the family cats, Fuzzy and Kitty, and later in life, the family dog Angel. Andrew, known to many as Diogee, was a proud member of the furry community. A community that gave him a place to truly be himself without judgment and enjoy the company of other like-minded souls. We will remember Andrew for his determination to find light in the darkness. We will remember his kind nature, his giggly laugh, his ability to be himself wherever he went, his unwavering love for animals, and his dislike of places that were just too people-ly. A public visitation was held Aug. 21 at the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, 34 Main Street, Centerbrook. To honor Andrew, guests are encouraged to dress comfortably and casually and "come as you are." See Obituaries page 7

As your hometown paper, the Valley Courier welcomes reader contributions and questions. If it’s important to you, we want to know about it. Here are the best ways to bring matters to our attention. LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Valley Courier encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues. Writers may submit letters as often as every two weeks. Letters must include the writer’s full name, street address, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters submitted under pseudonyms, anonymously, or through third parties will be declined. Letters must be written by the submitter. No more than four signees are permitted per letter. Letters must be 300 words or fewer and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Letter writers may be asked to supply sources to corroborate information presented as fact in letters. Civility is required. Letters with personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined. For letters endorsing a political candidate, Shore Publishing will accept one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections to allow for candidate rebuttal. Letters must be received and verbally confirmed by 5 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Publication is subject to approval by the editor. Letter writers who knowingly violate this policy three times will be banned from submitting future letters to the editor. Letters may be submitted at www.zip06.com or email to shoreletters@shorepublishing.com. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CALENDAR To have your item considered for print, please email news@shorepublishing.com. Announcements and calendar items are printed as space allows. Deadline for submissions is Tuesday at noon, nine days before publication. These are just a few ways to get involved in your newspaper. If you have an idea for a story, a question about news deadlines, or any other news-related inquiry, email news@shorepublishing.com or call the News Department at 203-245-1877, ext. 0. OBITUARIES The Valley Courier publishes paid obituary notices in print and at Zip06.com. Obituaries should be sent to obits@theday.com. The deadline for all obituaries is Wednesday at 4 p.m., eight days prior to publication date. Obituaries will also be posted as quickly as possible at Zip06.com. ADVERTISING To speak with someone about newspaper and online advertising, contact the Sales Department at advertising@shorepublishing.com or 203-245-1877. All advertising is subject to the approval of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing shall have the right to revise, reject or cancel, in whole or in part, any advertisement at any time for any or no reason. LEGAL NOTICES To place a legal notice, email legal@theday.com or call 860-701-4410. CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad in the Classifieds section or in the Classifieds Service Directory, call 860-701-4200 and/or email classifiedads@theday.com. CIRCULATION To speak with someone about receiving or canceling the paper, please call 203-245-1877, ext. 6 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.

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

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Chester Rotary Citizenship 2026 Awardees Press Release from the Chester Rotary Club

The Chester Rotary Club recognized four graduating high school seniors with its 2026 Chester Rotary Citizenship Awards. Recipients are Sydney Liggett, the Diana Amara Honoree, who will attend Connecticut College to study psychology and theater; Isabel Rice, who will attend Brown University to study biomedical engineering; Cody Saunders, who will attend the University of Connecticut to study engineering; and Sadie Iselin, who will attend Eastern Connecticut State University to study biochemistry. The awards recognize Chester residents who have demonstrated leadership in their school community and a passion for service in their local community. This year, the Chester Rotary Club awarded up to $8,000 to help recipients with post-high school educational costs for college or vocational or trade school programs. Applications for the 2027 awards will be available beginning Oct. 1 from the Guidance Department of Valley Regional High School.

Secure Your Loved Ones Remains at Centerbrook Cemetery

Photo courtesy of the Chester Rotary Club

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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Obituaries Continued from page 5 Obituary

Cynthia Kehoe Deep River Cynthia "Cindy" Olin Kehoe, 73, of Deep River, passed away peacefully Aug. 13, 2026. Born Sept. 8, 1952, Cindy grew up with a passion for music, particularly the fife. She was a longtime member of the Deep River Fife and Drum Corps and a proud member of the Company of Fifers and Drummers, where she developed deep friendships and found joy in a community she cherished. Throughout her years of dedicated practice and performance, Cindy competed in many fife competitions, earning numerous medals that reflected her skill, commitment, and artistry with the instrument. Her love of the instrument extended beyond her own playing—she took genuine delight in teaching others, sharing both her skill and her infectious enthusiasm for the music that defined so much of her life. Her warmth and spirit touched not only those close to home, but also friends across the Atlantic. Cindy made many trips to Switzerland, where she nurtured deep friendships and spent cherished time with loved ones, including her fiancé, Freddy Bruder of Basel. In her professional career, Cindy worked as a florist at Ballek's Garden Center in East Haddam and Grove Gardens in Clinton, bringing her artistic eye and gentle care to the arrangements she created. Beyond floristry, she expressed her creativity through painting and crocheting, creating beauty in multiple forms. Cindy had a deep love

for animals, and her cherished dogs and cats held a very special place in her heart throughout her life. They were faithful companions who brought her comfort and joy, and she cared for them with the same tenderness and devotion she showed to everyone she loved. But it was in caring for those she loved—both two-legged and four-legged—that Cindy found her greatest purpose. She was known for her devotion to family and friends, remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the quiet strength she brought to those around her. Cindy was predeceased by her parents, Leon and Lillian (Jackson) Olin, and her fiancé, Alfred "Freddy" Bruder of Basel, Switzerland. She is survived by her sister, Wendy Olin; two daughters, Candice Kehoe and Sandra Niesyn and her husband Peter Niesyn; as well as her granddaughter, Alyssa Niesyn, who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cindy's honor to the Company of Fifers and Drummers' Junior Camp Fund, supporting the next generation of young fife and drum musicians and helping to preserve the cherished traditions that Cindy loved so deeply. The Junior Fife and Drum Camp is held annually at the Incarnation Center in Ivoryton, Connecticut, and is a cause that would have been especially dear to her heart. Donations can be made online at companyoffifeanddrum.org/about/donations/junior-campfund-2026. Cindy's love, strength, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. See Obituaries page 8

Friends of Library Holds Book Sales The Friends of the Chester Public Library will hold book sales at the 20 Water St. Building in Chester on Fridays, Sept. 4 and Oct. 2, from 5 to 8:30 p.m., with refreshments served, and Sundays, Sept. 13 and 27, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Proceeds benefit Chester Public Library programming and services. The Friends also accepts book donations at Chester Public Library Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 860-526-0018 or visit chesterctlibrary.com.

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Mighty Quinn Story by Carol Andrecs

Quinn was living outside in an urban area when someone noticed that his ears were severely damaged and looked terribly painful. Forgotten Felines gladly took Quinn in and made sure he received immediate medical attention. Although his ear flaps needed to be surgically removed, he doesn’t mind at all since he feels so much better. Gentle Quinn is so grateful for a soft bed, love and attention from visitors and volunteers, and lots of good food and treats. A home of his own would be a dream come true. Come meet sweet Quinn at our open house or apply to adopt him online at www.forgotten felinesct.org. Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines: Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedPhoto by Genevieve Ray icated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facil- much appreciated. Call the volunteer line ity clean and organized. If you can donate at 860-669-1347 or send an email to your time, it will be very rewarding and volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.

LEGAL NOTICE BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS, ESSEX CT All owners of motor vehicles registered in the Town of Essex are hereby warned that the Board of Assessment Appeals of the Town of Essex will hold motor vehicle only hearings at the Essex Town Hall, on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 8:30am to 10:00am. All persons claiming to be aggrieved with regard to motor vehicle assessments on the grand list of October 1, 2025 are hereby warned to make their appeal to the Board of Assessment Appeals at this meeting. If you feel the MSRP based assessment of your vehicle is incorrect, you have the right to appeal the assessment to the September meeting of the Board of Assessment Appeals. Hearings will be by appointment. All parties should contact the Assessor’s office at 860-767-4340 x123 to make an appointment in advance. Keith Russell, Chairman Board of Assessment Appeals, Essex, CT

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ESSEX INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES COMMISSION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, 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: - IWWC #26-3 72 Plains Road, Essex, modified, size, location and orientation of a 3,840 sq ft municipal dog pound building with a fenced in animal run area, and 4,000 sq ft garage building located within 100 feet of wetlands. Applicant/Owner: Town of Essex 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 Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission Michael Furgueson, Chairman

Obituaries Continued from page 7 Obituary

Nancy Sprigg Essex Nancy Gowrie Sprigg, 72, of Essex, passed away peacefully Aug. 11, 2026, after a very brave battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family and friends, and by light and laughter. Nancy was born Nov. 1, 1953, and raised in Huntington, N.Y., before moving to Meriden, where she attended Francis T. Maloney High School, class of 1971. She went on to attend Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pa., graduating in 1975 with a degree in studio art. After college, Nancy spent time traveling Europe before eventually finding her way back to Connecticut and settling in Essex. She met her husband at The Black Seal, and they bought their forever home on Stanford Hill, where they started a family and raised their children. She began working at her father’s insurance agency as a yacht claims specialist, marking the start of what would become an incredible 47-year career with the company. Nancy was deeply dedicated to her work and to the people she worked alongside until her retirement in November 2022. Outside of work, Nancy was happiest when she was creating, adventuring, enjoying music, helping others, and spending time with the people she loved. She enjoyed fishing, painting, and volunteering, but perhaps nothing held a more special place in her heart than Money Island, her favorite get-

away in the Thimble Islands off the coast of Branford. She loved watching the water, the birds, and the boats from her favorite spot on the porch. She cherished a lifetime of island memories, sunsets, and laughs. Nancy is survived by her sons, Ian and his wife, Faith, and their children, Penelope and Atreus, of Chester, and Spencer of Essex. She is also survived by her brother, Carter Gowrie, and his wife, Carla, and their children: Ashley, Casey, Ali, Emilee, Scott, Dylan, and Nick. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Timothy Burns Sprigg, and her parents, Spencer Carter Gowrie Jr. and Betty Crombie Sexton. Nancy’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated doctors, nurses, and staff at Smilow Cancer Hospital, Yale New Haven Hospital, and Essex Meadows for the care, kindness, and compassion they showed Nancy and her loved ones. Rather than dwell on the sadness of her passing, Nancy’s family hopes she will be remembered for the life she lived—her creativity, independence, sense of adventure, love of the water, and, most of all, her love for her family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Essex Yacht Club, 13 Novelty Lane, Essex. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nancy’s memory to the Essex Foundation’s Donate for Daffodils, P.O. Box 64, Essex, CT 06426, or online at www.theessexfoundation.org/daffodils.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ESSEX PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Planning and Zoning Commission will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, 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 applications: - PZC #26-6 Special Exception under Section 101J of the Essex Zoning Regulations for an addition to an existing house including the construction of a detached accessory dwelling unit at 1 Foxboro Road Essex. Applicant/Owner: Mary Coons Copies of the applications 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

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

George Garner: A New Generation of Service Continued from page 2 As president, he oversees the different groups responsible for the club’s activities and works to keep those efforts on track. He also participates in meetings connecting the Chester club with the broader work of Rotary. “I am like the glue of all the events we have going on,” George says. One of those events is approaching quickly. The Chester Rotary’s annual Lobster Fest will be held Saturday, Sept. 12, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Chester Fairgrounds. George is co-chairing this year’s event, which raises money that the Rotary puts back into the community through scholarships and other efforts. Tickets are $55 and include a 1½-pound lobster and sides. The Cherry Pie Band will provide live music. Attendees can register online for pickup time slots beginning at 4 p.m., with the final slot at 6:30 p.m.

George says the event itself is expected to wrap up between 8 and 8:30 p.m. “Last year we had a great turnout and expect the same for this year,” he says. The Lobster Fest is among several activities the Rotary organizes throughout the year, along with the Kentucky Derby, a four-on-four race, and its scholarship program. For George, the work that goes into those events is possible because of members willing to volunteer their time. “The most important thing for me is that the Rotary is probably one of the only nonprofits on the scale where everyone in the club is there on a completely volunteer basis,” he says. “Everything we do gives back to Chester.” As he settles into the presidency, George says members have been receptive to his efforts to incorporate more digital tools and streamline some of the club’s operations. “The members have been open and welcoming to the things I have been doing to

try to make the club a little more digital to help it run more smoothly,” he says. “I am very grateful, and we are like a family.” Recruiting new members, particularly younger residents, remains one of his priorities. During the summer, the Chester Rotary meets for dinner Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at the Chester Boat Basin. In the fall, dinners are held every other Wednesday at various restaurants. Prospective members are welcome to attend. “We are always welcoming new people and encouraging them to join and help give back to the town,” George says. After coming to Chester a decade ago, George says the connections he has made through the Rotary have made him feel welcome in a community where he didn’t grow up. “I am grateful to be part of the community, and I love everyone I have met,” he says.

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AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Horoscopes

Crossword

For the week of August 27 - September 2 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Aries, you are bursting with momentum, but your tongue may move faster than your brain this week. You don’t need to force a final decision or push an agenda right now. Speak thoughtfully.

A roadblock might delay you for a little while but it’s not going to completely stop your progress, Libra. Find a way to settle a discrepancy with a coworker before it escalates.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Reshuffled schedules might test your patience, Taurus. Focus on finding a healthy balance and do your best to adjust.

Scorpio, if you recently came out on top of a conflict, let the other person bow out with dignity. Do not make a big deal of your win.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

A gap between your grand vision and your current reality might feel frustrating, Cancer. However, necessity is the mother of invention. Trust the small opportunities that crop up.

You are in a position where you need to be direct but not very pushy, Sagittarius. Figure out what you need or want, and then step back to let others make up their own minds.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Cancer, right now you are focused on rest and relaxation. It’s been a busy time for you and the batteries certainly can do with some recharging.

Capricorn, you cannot expect others to read your mind. You must spell out in detail what you mean and what you expect from those around you.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Leo, even though you love supporting others, this week is all about redirecting energy inward. Practice care with whom you trust. Allow yourself to rest later in the week.

Pay attention to informal conversations around you this week, Aquarius. The “little things” often can provide a lot of meaning and insight.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22 Your hands may be tied by technicalities, but you have creative free reign to improvise in a situation that pops up this week, Virgo. Stick with your intuition right now.

Crossword solution for August 20, 2026

AUGUST 27 Aaron Paul, Actor (47) AUGUST 28 Shania Twain, Singer (61) AUGUST 29 Lea Michele, Actress (40) AUGUST 30 Cameron Diaz, Actress (54)

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20 Step into natural leadership role at work or in a volunteer environment, Pisces. Trust the opportunities that come from your steady presence.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

AUGUST 31 Chris Tucker, Comic Actor (55) SEPTEMBER 1 Zendaya, Actress (30) SEPTEMBER 2 Keanu Reeves, Actor (62)

CLUES ACROSS 1. A vast desert in Africa 7. Reciprocal of a sine 10. Type of phone 12. Biblical figure 13. One who renounces a religious belief 14. Warren and Monroe are two 15. Wild ox 16. Dismounted a horse 17. Cave dweller 18. Where infants sleep 19. Popular type of shoe 21. Clumsy large person 22. Evil-like 27. Integrated circuit 28. Austin-based athlete 33. Postscript 34. Follows 18 36. People of Gambia 37. Popular actor Nicolas 38. Platform for a lectern 39. Taxi 40. American songwriter Sammy 41. Iranian city 44. Heavy clubs 45. One who is expelled 48. In bed 49. Lifelessness 50. Former CIA 51. Most slick CLUES DOWN 1. Slovenly person 2. In addition

3. Hovels 4. Pie _ __ mode 5. Subway rodent 6. They __ 7. Indigenous S. American people 8. Fine sand 9. Central nervous system 10. Nightclub entertainment 11. The perfect example of something 12. Supreme Islamic leader 14. Pain 17. Binary-coded decimal 18. Projecting corner of an angle 20. “Succession” actor Brian 23. Dinner table decor 24. Ancient settlement in modern Turkey 25. You can call Paul Simon this 26. Opposite of a pro 29. Atomic #28 30. Type of drug (abbr.) 31. Arrives at 32. Nullifies 35. BirdÕs beak 36. Partner to “oohed” 38. Ray-finned fishes 40. Taxis 41. Sat on and controlled 42. Sea eagles 43. Remain as-is 44. Chinese revolutionary 45. Tooth caregiver 46. Snakelike fish 47. Compensate

Word Search

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle. PAR FOR THE COURSE WORD SEARCH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for August 20, 2026: STOP

ALBATROSS BIRDIE BOGEY BUNKER CADDIE DIMPLE DIVOT DRIVER EAGLE FAIRWAY FORE GREEN HANDICAP HAZARD HOOK IRON MULLIGAN PAR PUTTER ROUGH SLICE STROKE TEE WEDGE

Word Search solution for August 20, 2026

WA R E C K D’O S T I L I O

¿Quiere comprar, vender o rentar una propiedad en East Haven o sus alrededores? Déjeme ayudarle, solo llámeme para cualquier consulta de bienes raices.

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Transactions

Ready to Sell?

Powered

BRANFORD

Unlock the untapped value in your home. Discover how to make the necessary changes to enhance your home sale and defer costs until closing. Updated Lighting Misc. Repairs

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860.227.3191

rweiner@wpsir.com Licensed Real Estate Broker in CT

50 Brookhills Road: Douglas C. and Gina M. Lee to George and Elle Ristow, $1,026,500 on Aug. 6

williampitt.com

3 Garden Street: Deborah Vodola to Robert and Regina Bejnerowicz, $580,000 on Aug. 6

512 Leetes Island Road: Mark Waclawiak to Christopher R. and Lyndsey Hayden, $380,000 on Aug. 6

KNOLLWOOD BEACH

7/15/26 10:45 AM

37 Woodland Drive Old Saybrook $1,025,000 Experience coastal luxury in this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch style home nestled in Knollwood Beach. Set on a rare .33 acre lot, it offers picturesque marsh and South Cove views. Step inside to discover a newly remodeled interior featuring an expansive remodeled white kitchen with quartz counters, large center island. The family room boasts a dramatic fireplace, while a sunlit dining room/ sunroom offers panoramic views of the marsh and Cove.

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

JOEL LUCAS, REALTOR® 860.304.9150 bankerbuddy@hotmail.com COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM

860-304-9150

Madison Office 670 Boston Post Road | Madison, CT 06443

Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

101 Main Street • Old Saybrook, CT

Clinton, Deep River & Essex Real Estate Expert

MORTGAGE FINANCING AVAILABLE 1.855.298.5650 : Hillary A. Mendillo 48 Home Place to Kyle J. Moriarty, $450,000 on Aug. 6

OLD LYMEisBROKERAGE 103 HALLS ROAD | 860.434.2400 AVAILABLE 1.855.298.5650 © 2013 Citibank, N. A. equal housing lender,MORTGAGE member FDIC. FINANCING Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc. Each Office Independently |Owned and Operated

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

77 North High Street: Will J. Benoit and Brandie L. Doyle to&Steven Clinton, Deep River Essex RealH. Estate Expert Hayden, $441,000 on Aug. 4

Cedar Lake Acres: Michael C. and Loretta J.978 Vastarelli to Joseph M. Main Street | Branford Mascari and Mackenzie R. Lyon, $11,850 106 Shore Road: Kevin Gracey to on Aug. 6 Michael Champagne and Jaimi-Lyn Ron Stewart 203-415-8174 Tudor-Champagne, $517,000 on Aug. 7 33 Deforest Road: Michael C. and 101 Main Street • Old Saybrook, CT Loretta J. Vastarelli to Joseph M. 40 Uncas Road: George West Mascari and Mackenzie R. Lyon, $11,850 Goward Real Estate Trust and Kathleen Clinton, Deep River & Essex Real Estate Expert on Aug. 6 E. Goward to Michael and Suzanne McDermott, $586,000 on Aug. 6 18 East Village Court Unit 18: Katarzyna Gilewska to Jeffrey and Diane Paz, $410,000 on Aug. 3

2013 Citibank, N. A. equal housing lender, member FDIC. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated Notable and its marketing or referral partners do©not guarantee or warrant any results. Loans are made by Notable Finance,LLC, an affiliated lender, or Quorum Federal Credit Union, and not made by any real estate broker or agent. Loans by Notable Finance, LLC, NMLS# 1824748 are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license. For all Borrowers in Virginia: Notable Finance, LLC is licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission, CFI-243. Loan eligibility is not guaranteed and all loans are subject to credit approval and lender underwriting. Rules and exclusions apply. Subject to yourloan agreement and Notable’s terms and conditions (notablehome.com/terms). Interest and fees apply. Loan funds and interest are due upon loan acceleration, twelve months after origination, termination of your listing agreement, or the date on which Notable otherwise suspends your loan for any reasons stated in your loan agreement, whichever occurs sooner. Subject to the terms and conditions of your loan agreement with Notable Finance, LLC.

RW Marketing Concierge ad VC 6.18.indd 1

55 Kelseytown Road: Dianne S. Gustafson to Andrew and Connie Benjamin, $615,000 on Aug. 3

Ron Stewart 203-415-8174 DEEP RIVER

myconcierge.notablehome.

Rick Weiner

Carlos Carrillo 203-464-2131

39 Manorwood Drive Unit 39: Alex Mellion to Tracy Nunez, $287,500 on Aug. 5 64 Montoya Drive: Carol L. Valente to Syed Ali, $300,000 on Aug. 3 51 Pompano Avenue: Dwight Stetson to Amanda R. Stetson, $255,000 on Aug. 5

Ron Stewart 203-415-8174 101 Main Street • Old Saybrook, CT

56 Shailer Pond Road: Leah R. Stillman to Emily Searle and Adam Jared Turner, $730,000 on Aug. 4

ESSEX Contact me to learn more about the current market and the value of your home.

SUSAN MALAN Broker Associate CT & & Licensed in RI

o. 860-767-5011 e. smalan@wpsir.com

CHESTER 15 Denlar Drive: Court Yankee Rlty Inc to Lisa M. Esteves and Anthony Berner, $525,000 on Aug. 3

86 Bushy Hill Road: Shaam P. and Rhoda S. Sundhar to Matthew D. Dyer and Kristen M. Mostowy, $150,000 on Aug. 6

CLINTON

15 Cove Hill Road: John J. Fernandez to Gina East B. and Patrick H. Sisk, $630,000 on Aug. 5

2 Circlecle Drive: Maureen B. Farquharson to Joseph Farquharson, $180,000 on Aug. 7 151 East Main Street Unit 9: Resync Prop Solutions LLC to Ryan Shaikh and Hena Haque, $709,000 on Aug. 6

14 Essex Glen Drive Unit 4: Estate of William East Aneshensel and William J. Jacaruso to Porter T and Robert J. Porter, $725,000 on Aug. 4 14 Essex Glen Drive Unit 9: Charles and Barbara Beal to Susan P Fogliano T and Michael Fogliano, $755,000 on Aug. 5

REAL ESTATE • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Real Estate Transactions 58 Lynn Road: Stephan D. and Elizabeth Hathway to Bartek Wojciechowski and Diana Gryszkiewicz, $482,000 on Aug. 3 38 North Main Street Unit 5: Sandra C. Matheny to Colette M. Harron, $951,000 on Aug. 5 49 River Road: Sally B. Emch to Timothy L. and Jean M. Brewer, $1,130,000 on Aug. 4 85 River Road Unit 4: Jessixa Geervliet Real Estate Trust and Jessica R. Geervliet to Patricia U. Bonomi, $425,000 on Aug. 7

550 Route 81: Carolyn Sheridan to Jennifer D. Jackson, $775,000 on Aug. 4

43 Indianola Drive: Geoffrey S. Nadzam to Amy J. and Carl R. Kruglak, $1,750,000 on Aug. 3

47 Old Mail Trail: Janet Riesman to Channel Whelk LLC, $2,450,000 on Aug. 6

MADISON

208 Ingham Hill Road: Karen L Ritter Real Estate Trust and Karen L. Ritter to John Testa and Alyssa Mcguiness, $615,000 on Aug. 5

224 Salt Island Road: Sandro and Paula Pizzicarola to John Hodson, $950,000 on Aug. 3

95 Middletown Avenue: Adam J. Cohen to Call The Bee Hldg Grp LLC, $1,049,900 on Aug. 4

Note: Real estate transactions are published using publicly available records and are matters of public record. Listings are not removed in response to general privacy requests. Removal will only be considered in cases involving a documented and credible personal safety concern. Requests may be submitted to zip06@shore publishing.com

602 Durham Road: Brian and Jacquelyn Courtmanche to Kelly and Carlos J. Aviles, $745,000 on Aug. 3 94 Warpas Road: Craig J. Patla to Sean and Samantha Vierling, $675,000 on Aug. 4

10 Pratt Road: Jenna Rowlson and 64 Webster Point Road: 64 Webster Sean Mccarron to Samuel Kaplowitz Point Real Estate Trust and Dario M D. and Aria Swan, $744,000 on Aug. 5 Nolasco to Brian and Katerina Guerraz, $2,185,000 on Aug. 4

8 Squire Lane: Glen and Helve Ekstrom to Alfonso J. and Sherri Zummo, $1,195,000 on Aug. 3

OLD SAYBROOK

KILLINGWORTH

375 Boston Post Road: Mec Realty LLC to Five Little Ps LLC, $450,000 on Aug. 6

38 Beech Tree Ridge: Susan Beesley to Kerry A. and Ronald T. Cassin, $820,000 on Aug. 3

WESTBROOK

2 Cinnamon Way: Lisa Rae Pannazzo to David Pasquale Taricani and Amanda Nicole Berman, $704,000 on Aug. 4

f o r S A L E • 8 M e e t i n g H o u s e Ro a d , H a d d a m Listed at: $1,095,000

SUSAN MALAN Broker Associate CT & Licensed in RI o. 860.767.5011 • c. 617.645.4392 smalan@wpsir.com susanmalan.williampitt.com Essex Brokerage: 13 Main Street, Essex

1525 Boston Post Road Unit 263: Dgg Properties Co Inc to Albert L. and Olivia Sui, $19,900 on Aug. 7 Mail Trail: Janet Riesman to Channel Whelk LLC, $2,450,000 on Aug. 6

j u s t L I S T E D • 2 9 U n i o n S t r e e t , D e e p R i ve r L i ste d at : $ 6 84 ,9 0 0

Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.

j u s t L I S T E D • 2 8 R i v e r Ro a d , E s s e x Listed at: $1,650,000

#1 DOLLAR VOLUME IN ESSEX 2024–2026(YTD)¹ #1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN ESSEX 2019–2026(YTD)¹ #1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY 2023 & 2024² #1 IN DOLLAR VOLUME IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY 2026(YTD)² DIAMOND AWARD WINNER 2020–2025³ ¹ Source: Sm a rtM LS, 1/ 1 / 1 9–8/ 18/ 26, to tal t ra nsa ct ions a nd d o l la r vol um e by a gent, Essex Coun ty; all pro p erties listed or sold by agent . ²1/1/ 23 –8/18/ 2 6, Mi dd l esex County. ³Wi l l i am P i tt Sot heby's Inter nat iona l Realty 2020 – 2025 Awards Re cog ni t ion, Essex Broke rage. Ea ch Of f ice is Inde pen dently Owned and Op erated.

Employment Services

Business Directory

Employment Services

14 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER

AUGUST 27, 2026 Announcements

Announcements

Automotive

Employment

Financial

Employment Services

Legals

Announcements

ad AD deadline: monday 10 am DEADLINE: FRIDAY ATat 4 PM

Animals and Pets

Financial

Animals and Pets

Instructions

or Call 1-800-582-8296

PlaCeAutomotive your liner ad online at

Service Directory and Classified Displayand/or Ads: 860.701.4412 Service Directory and Classified Display Ads: 860-701-4200 Email classifiedads@theday.com Go to Zip06.com, select your town and Legals click on classifieds or callMarine/ weekdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Marine/

Medical

Instructions

Automotive

Announcements

anted W Automotive Animals JUNK CARS WANTED and Title or Pets No Title CA$H PAID ON SPOT Automotive 203-907-7766 —

Business Directory

Animals and Pets Employment

Pets

BLACK TRIS IN KILLINWORTH Mini American Business Shepherds(Australian) Directory 3 boys DOB: 6/1/2025 AKC Employment Parents on premises Services $1000 each Carole: 475-331-5105

Business Directory

Employment Employment

Painting/Papering A CRAFTSMAN WHO PAINTS

Employment WOOD & COMPOSITE DECKS Powerwashing Repairs Staining Refreshing I do small & medium jobs Employment others are too busy for. Ref’s & Insured Services 860-388-0175

pets apartments

findfurniture ithomes all. boats

cars jobs

Top Job

Chambo’s Italian Deli in Deep River is looking for 2-3 kitchen / deli experienced persons. This is an opportunity to join our team as we continue to provide great Italian centric offerings to the Connecticut River Valley. Planning to staff breakfast through early dinner hours this Fall. Send resume with contact information to fortheglory@msn.com. —

Employment Employment Services Services DRIVER WANTED

Orchard House Adult Daycare Branford, CT., Mon-Fri, Competitive hourly rate. Passenger endorsement drivers lic required. Call for appt 203-481-7110 —

Financial

Human Services Admin Assistant for the Town of Clinton. Part-Time (20 hr) $21/Hr. For more details please visit www.clintonct.org or call 860-669-9333

classifieds Financial place your classified online community

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Truck Driver for DPW Town of Clinton. Full-Time $30.93/Hr. Must have Class B License. For more details please visit www.clintonct.org or call 860-669-9333

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PART-TIME PHONE RECEPTIONIST POSITION Reputable, small medical practice in New Haven seeking a courteous, responsible, organized Phone Receptionist (20–25 hrs/ week, M-F). Main duties include scheduling and administrative support. Strong communication skills required. Approximately $20-25/hour depending on experience. Pleasant work environment, potential for some remote work. If interested, please complete our job inquiry form at Marine/ www.integralhealthct.com/career and leave a voice message for Carolyn at (203) 909-6370 ext 12. — Boats

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place your classified online

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Garage Sales/Flea Markets

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HUGE BARN SALE IN MADISON Merchandise Merchandise Friday & Saturday, August 28th & 29th | 8am - 4pm 715 Durham Road (RT79) Furniture, bedroom sets, dining table & chairs, bar stools, dressers, desks, couch, reclining chair, rugs, outdoor furniture, housewares, home decor, holiday items, small HH appliances, wine fridge, pots & pans, pictures & frames, lamps, designer clothes - all sizes, hand & power tools, yard tools, John Deere tractor, push mower, camping gear, fishing gear, video games, cook books, records/vinyl & MORE! Something for everyone, come early for the best selection! Real Estate Real RAIN DATE: TBD — Estate

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Storage/ Warehouse

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—

Climate controlled auto storage located In Essex CT area. 3, 6, and 12 month rentals available. Call Eric 860-662-6151

**WANTED** Firearms Single or Collections ______________________ Including military and related items. Federal firearms license. Appraisals. ______________________ Richard Pleines 860-663-2214 place your classified online

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SERVICE DIRECTORY BUILDING & REMODELING

Financial

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Medical

CF-FindItClass-1x1-bw

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Shore Publishing reserves the right to reject any advertisement. Shore Publishing is not responsible for theBoats content of any ad or Boats Business Business Animals consequences of any misprinted ads. Shore Publishing will rerun any misprinted classified ad. no cash refunds are available. Directory Directory and Pets

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AUGUST 27, 2026

VALLEY COURIER • CLASSIFIEDS • 15

BUILDING & REMODELING

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www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665

SERVICE DIRECTORY

16 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER GUTTER SERVICES

IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

CLUTTER IN THE GUTTER

Located in Old Saybrook

Scott’s Gutter Fully Insured Cleaning HIC #0634550

No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large

www.waterworksirrigations.com

Roof Repairs • Handyman Services Power Washing • Roof Washing Black Stains & Algae Removal Prompt Courteous Service, Done on Time

AdId: S 3200005796409 - 01 CustId: 3317909816 AdId: S 3200005796409 - 01 Dir/Iss: SHLCT YP1 06/2018 UDAC: DQC CIP CustId: 3317909816 HIRE A VETERAN ATTUID: vignet01 Dir/Iss: SHLCT YP1 06/2018 Date: 04/27/2018 02:13:PM LANDSCAPING

UDAC: DQC - CIP ATTUID: vignet01 Date: 04/27/2018 02:13:PM

S 3200005796409 - 01 : 3317909816 : SHLCT YP1 06/2018 DQC - CIP D: vignet01 04/27/2018 02:13:PM

• Mowing • Drainage Work • Shrub Pruning • Utility Trenching • Brush Cutting • Shed Removal • Fall Clean-Up • Demolition • Tree Removal • Dump Runs • Stump Grinding • Top Soil • New Plantings • Stone www.waterworksirrigations.com CT Lic# P1-0204385 • Excavation • Mulch • Land Clearing • Swimming Pool Removal • Snow Plowing • Gravel Driveways YPH: 104940 Sprinklers Garden & Lawn, Inst YPH: 104940 YPSH: FULLY Sprinklers Garden & Lawn, Inst INSURED 860-510-3509 Rep: 14521 - rd1979 YPSH:

www.waterworksirrigations.com

Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters

203-466-0520

LANDSCAPING

CHAMPLIN’S LANDSCAPING & EXCAVATION

The Original

Owner/ Operator Scott Behler

AUGUST 27, 2026

DOW ROBERT

YPH: 104940 Landscaping Sprinklers Garden & ••Lawn, Inst Painting YPSH: • Mowing

Rep: 14521 - rd1979 DOW ROBERT

• Trimming

Service Rep: 14521 - rd1979•• Masonry Mulching DOW ROBERT • Gutter Cleaning Lic. # 0653900

LANDSCAPE SERVICES LLC

203.727.6405

Serving All Shoreline Communities Spring & Fall Clean Ups • Mowing Complete Lawn Maintenance Bed Design • Plant Installation Mulching • Retaining Walls Lawn Repair Sod and Seed Lawn Installation Is Our Specialty!

Ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com

We Use Ryan Aeration and Slice Seeding Equipment Call for Free Estimates and Mowing Quotes!

residential

Fully licensed HIC #0561037 & Insured

Condominium

Weekly Mowing Spring/Fall Clean Ups Aerating & Overseeding Pruning Mulching

Landscape Design & Installation Paver Patios & Walkways Retaining Walls Cobblestone Poolscapes Fire Pits Outdoor Kitchens Concrete Fencing CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

860-635-1030

CELEBRATING OVER 41 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

www.violalandscapingllc.com

. commercial . condo • Irrigation Systems Installs/Maintenance • Lawn & Landscape Maintenance • Fertilizing & Tick Control • Retaining Walls • Architectural Pavers: Poolside & Patios • New Lawn Installations: Sod Installs/Hydroseed • Excavations & Drainage • Landclearing/Foundation: Dozer Site Work • Dumpster Services

perfectturflandscapeservices.com www.perfectturfservices.com

Commercial

rml.landscaping24@gmail.com

Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans

203-481-2436

NOW SERVICING THE SHORELINE AREA FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE Residential

• Powerwashing • Small Tree Removal • Fall & Spring Clean-Ups

Serving the Shoreline Area Since 1996 Call today for consultation 860-767-2811 like us www.sullivanlawnservices.com CT HIC #0606162 CT HIC#06060162 CT Lic# P1-0204385

FERT #B2547

FRESH EGGS

Mejia’s Lawn Cut Services, LLC

All Aspects of Residential/Commercial Lawn Care * Spring & Fall Cleanups * Tree Work * Power Washing * Snow Plowing * Brush Removal * Gutter Cleaning * Stonework * Lawn Installations (Seed or Sod) & Maintenance * Planting, Pruning, Mulching, Trimming, Weeding * Weekly Lawn Cutting Available * Painting No Job Too Big or Too Small Call (203) 928-0241 today for your free estimate!

The CT handyman LandsCaping LLC

Tree Work - Mulching of Beds - Spring & Fall Clean Ups Weeding of Beds - Pruning of Shrubs – Firewood Deck Repairs - Landscape Design - Brush Hogging of Fields

860-490-0986 ask for Jim Licensed & Insured

SERVICE DIRECTORY

AUGUST 27, 2026

VALLEY COURIER • CLASSIFIEDS • 17

LANDSCAPING

MASONRY

COUNTRY HILL LANDSCAPING

JUNK REMOVAL

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Call Greg

Eric Werle • Guilford, CT 06437

203-457-0483

Fall Leaf Removal Full Lawn Service Walls & Walkways Spring Cleanup Mulch Work

Tree Work Snow Plowing Planting Tractor Work Pruning

SHED DEMO, BRUSH CLEARING & MORE

MASONRY

MOVING & HAULING

NEED SOMETHING MOVED?

203. 469.6670

• Pointing & Brick • Caulking • Power Washing • Patios & Water Proof • Chimneys / Chimney Cleaning • Block • All Types of Masonry Work & Repair Lic. #616858

Accept Major Credit Cards

Over 30 years experience Specializing In:

M AS O N RY, L LC

Stone Walls • New Fireplaces Special Steps • Stone Design Swimming Pools • Sidewalks • Stucco Chimneys • Patio Bricks & Blocks Small & Large Jobs

Stonewalls, Seawalls, Special Steps, Patios, Sidewalks, Swimming Pools, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Belgium Block, Blue Stone Pavers, Stucco, Big & Small Jobs Welcomed We do it all!

Specialized Masonry Work Owner on Every Job 30 Years Experience Free Estimates

Serving the Shoreline with Pride Great Prices Italian Craftsmanship All Work Guaranteed

HIC.0618942

“No Job Too Small”

Will do Dump Runs also. Call Luke at

Cell (203) 598-2524

HIC.0571018 Fully Insured Free Estimates

Cell: 203-510-9162 - Jeff Office: 203-565-9079 - Jimmy

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203-464-0444

*Free Estimates*

Father & Son Masonry

SOSOLI’S

(860)575-6918

SERVICING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1988

D. Masonry & Restoration

OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP

www.greatmason.com

PAINTING

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Quality Work Since 1987

Gold Star Painting Specialists Connecticut Shoreline

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Commercial & Residential Interior/Exterior Painting • Power Washing - Staining Free Estimate/Fully Insured/Licensed CT HIC.0578520

203-483-5590 203-645-8717 Valentinopaintingllc@yahoo.com

PLUMBING SERVICES

POWERWASHING

Pember Plumbing, LLC

Selling your home? • Opening or closing your cottage? Running toilet? • Dripping faucet? • Leaky pipes? Plumbing repairs you’ve been putting off? Trusted by shoreline homeowners for over 25 years.

Cross it off your to-do list- call Chip today at

203-671-0415

PRESSURE WASHING • Cement & Patios • Tennis Courts • Brick • Driveways • Walkways • Decks • Fence

SOFT WASHING • House Washing • Roof Cleaning • Solar Panels • Cedar Wash • Gutter Cleaning • Window Cleaning

Call 203-318-0308 • www.whitegloveservicesct.com

ROOFING

203-453-5571 203-453-5571 Family Owned & Operated

Family Owned & Lic. #613241 Insured Financing Available Family/ Fully Owned & /Operated Operated

www.ENHRestoration.com www.ENHRestoration.com

ROOFING • SIDING • GUTTERS Lic. #613241 / Fully Insured / Financing Available

Community

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Leaking pipes, Gas piping Boilers, Water Heaters, Well pumps,

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860-434-2200

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www.RogerCramptonLLC.com CLLlic no#tpP1-204812 marCrego • Shingle Roofs Fully insured www.RogerCramptonLLC.com moc.CT insured Gutters Shingle Roofs• Leaders • 860-434-2200 Flat Roofs • Fully Seamless www.RogerC Flat Roofs •••Shingle Roofs Fully insured www.RogerCramptonLLC.com CT lic # P1-204812 •Seamless Leaders Repairs • Skylights • Slate Repairs ••Flat Roofs •Gutters • Repairs ••Seamless • Skylights Leaders Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates Gutters SlateInsured Repairs• Licensed • Repairs INC. ••Fully • Skylights www.russoroofing.com Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates (203) 562-8077 • Slate www.russoroofing.com (203) 624-ROOF Repairs CT Reg No. 00509027 Fully insured

A AboveThe TheRest Rest A Roof Roof Above RESTORATION,LLC

Fully Fully insured insured

CT lic # P1-2048122V_70 9718 D

D817907_V2218402-1P # cil TC

D817907_V2

CT Reg No. 00509027

cell: 203-444-3465 dominic@GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com www.GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com

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CT Reg No. 00509027

Dominic Bosco

Insured, CT Lic # P1- 0203471

M.A. PLUMBING l HEATING l AIRCCONDITIONING R ,spmup lleW ,sretaeH retaW ,srRelioBC Boilers, Water Hea PAINTING N E W I N S TA L L AT I O N S O Boilers, R R E PA I RWa S

• Fully Insured • Licensed

Residential • Commercial (203) 562-8077 (203) 624-ROOF Free Estimates www.russoroofing.com • Fully Insured • Licensed (203)

SKYWAY

562-8077 • (203) 624-ROOF

“Quality Roofing Since 1928”

Residential

Restoration LLC

ROOFINGProfessionals

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CALL 860-701-4200 EMAIL CLASSIFIEDADS@THEDAY.COM

in print every week & online every day at zip06.com

Licensed & Insured Lic. #0573204

Senior & Veteran Discounts

SERVICE DIRECTORY

18 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER

AUGUST 27, 2026

ROOFING

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HIRE A VETERAN HIC #0634550

TREE SERVICES

860-526-2127

EXPERT ROOFING IN EVERY STYLE FLAT

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PROTECTING YOUR HOME. ENHANCING YOUR INVESTMENT

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WATERPROOFING

A FULL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COMPANY Landscape & Lawncare Services Lawn Mowing • Spring & Fall Clean-ups • Mulching • Pruning Tree Removal • Planting • Diagnosis • Treatments • Stump Grinding

Basement Waterproofing Services

(860)227-2774

FOOTING DRAINS GUTTER DOWNSPOUT DRAINS CRAWL SPACES LANDSCAPING DRAINAGE GRAVITY DRAINS CRACK SEALING SUMP PUMPS PUMP INSPECTIONS

RT R T TREE REMOVAL Brian Miller

Over 20 Years Experience Clinton, CT

BrianMiller Miller Brian

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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Photo by John Ruddy/The Day

In the foreground is the plaque honoring the Frenchmen buried near the entrance to the Old Norwichtown Burying Ground. It was erected in 1901 by the Faith Trumbull Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Behind it is a French monument placed in 1934.

Photo by John Ruddy/The Day

The French monument was placed by the Société Nationale du Souvenir Français, now known as Le Souvenir Français, an organization that honors French military casualties.

In Search of Norwich’s French Casualties

The words on the plaque turned between the mysterious French soldiers Rhode Island. George Washington dis20 sick men died and were question. out to be anything but certain. and a documented visit by the Marquis de patched Lafayette to take part in the Details that would set the story straight Lafayette. But now, in 1895, the sugges- attack. buried there in 1778, had long been forgotten. But they were out tion was made. Six years later, the plaque The young marquis, who had joined the there, waiting to be found. made it official. fight on his own, was commanding Ameribut who were they? *** The Daughters of the American Revolu- can troops, not French, when he arrived in By John Ruddy Special to Living

Editor’s note: “Remembering the Revolution” is a series that will appear throughout 2026 to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. *** Cast in bronze and set into a boulder, the plaque conveys time-honored certainty. In raised letters green with age, it declares: “In memory of twenty French soldiers who, serving under Lafayette, died while in camp at Norwich Town 1778.” That much was beyond dispute at the plaque’s 1901 dedication in the Old Norwichtown Burying Ground. But little more was known. “Unwept and unsung, they were buried where they died,” a speaker said. “We do not even know their names.” This episode of the American Revolution lingered in local memory. But, already blurred by time, it gradually came into

A brief but enduring account of what happened in Norwichtown came from local historian Frances Manwaring Caulkins. Writing almost seven decades after the fact, she may have relied on oral memories: “In 1778, a body of French troops, on the route from Providence to the south, halted there for ten or fifteen days, on account of sickness among them.” With tents pitched on Norwichtown Green, “about twenty died and were buried each side of the lane that led into the old burying-ground.” Caulkins cited no source for this in her 1845 book, “History of Norwich,” but she got nothing from the newspaper. The Norwich Packet, publishing weekly in 1778, was silent on any soldier deaths. Half a century after Caulkins, another historian, Mary E. Perkins, added a twist. “This may have occurred at the time when Gen. Glover’s Irish brigade, under the command of Lafayette, remained for three days in town in that year,” Perkins wrote in “Old Houses of the Antient Town of Norwich.” Caulkins had not proposed a link

tion placed the monument after local historian George S. Porter claimed to have pinpointed the half-forgotten burial site near the cemetery’s entrance. “As generation succeeded generation the traditional location of these graves usurped the positive knowledge of earlier times,” he said at the July 4, 1901, dedication. Porter didn’t mention how he had done it, but two years later, when new cemetery gates were dedicated, he added this: “It is averred by an elderly gentleman that in his boyhood days the spot was indicated to him by several old men who had witnessed the interments.” That memory, spanning two lifetimes, reclaimed the spot from obscurity, but the identity of those buried was still far from clear. *** Broader events in 1778 provide context. France entered the war in a treaty of alliance with the United States. The Comte d’Estaing, a French admiral, crossed the Atlantic with a dozen ships to be deployed against British-held Newport,

Norwich, en route to Newport, on July 30, 1778. The Packet said his men were “General Glover’s Brigade, called the Irish Brigade, from the grand American army.” “Both officers and soldiers were in high spirits and made a martial appearance,” the paper observed. Lafayette did not return during the war, and Norwich glimpsed French soldiers only later when a cavalry unit wintered in Lebanon in 1780-81. Troops under the Comte de Rochambeau crossed Connecticut in 1781 and again in 1782, but Norwich was not on their route. So the historical record doesn’t explain how French soldiers could have died and been buried in Norwichtown in 1778. This was evident not long after the plaque went up. In his 1903 address, Porter invoked the elderly gentleman’s memory defensively. “It has been asserted of late that these men were never in the town and consequently could not have sickened, died and been buried here,” he said, protesting that See In Search page 20

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

In Search of Norwich’s French Casualties Continued from page 19 what the old man had learned in his youth matched Caulkins’ account. That hardly settled the matter. At a 1934 ceremony, speakers glossed over the inconvenient chronology by suggesting everything had happened later. “These brave French soldiers probably made the supreme sacrifice in 1780 or 1781,” one of them said. By 1975, Joan Nafie, author of “To the Beat of a Drum: A History of Norwich, Connecticut During the American Revolution,” had downgraded Caulkins’ tale to “tradition.” “While there is no documented evidence that this event occurred,” she wrote, “most legends usually contain a germ of truth.” *** Dale Plummer, Norwich’s city historian, went looking for that germ a decade ago, prompted by possible development plans at the cemetery’s edge. He worried graves could be disturbed, including those of the French soldiers. He researched what was known about them to verify that their burial site was where it was supposed to be. In 2017, ground-penetrating radar suggested a cluster of graves. But “the more I looked into it, the less it seemed likely” that the men were soldiers, he said. For one thing, if they had died while serving under Lafayette, he would Charles Allen Munn Collection, Fordham University Library, Bronx, New York have visited the site when he returned to Norwich on his 1824 American tour. The subject of this drawing by Revolutionary War artist John Trumbull is debated. Some say it depicts prisoners starving to death on a As Plummer tracked the evidence from British prison ship, while others think it might show a mental hospital. Trumbull, who was from Lebanon, was the son of Connecticut Caulkins to Perkins to Porter, he found Gov. Jonathan Trumbull. references to a different group of Frenchmen who were in town at the right time. In arrived in New London. The group was en Its mission is to maintain and decorate quartered in the court-house.” That’s a October 1778, Jedediah Huntington of route to Boston by way of Norwich. French military graves at home and good candidate for the hospital’s location. Norwich wrote his father that “between 5 “They are in a very emaciated and sickly abroad. The Norwich plaque is the oldest On the southeast corner of Norwichtown and 600 frenchmen came in from N York condition,” the paper said. in the U.S. and the only one that uses the Green, the building was a stone’s throw in the Flag they arrived here last Night. At last it became clear that the mysteri- former name, according to Thierry from the burial site. Part are gone on this day to Boston.” ous Frenchmen were not soldiers after all. Chaunu, president of the organization’s The report says the hospital opened Oct. The next month, the Rev. Benjamin They were sailors. American branch. 25, 1778, and the first death occurred two Lord made a passing reference in a sermon *** Le Souvenir Français has unearthed a days later. Four died on Oct. 30, and the about recent local deaths: “And also died Just behind the boulder and plaque is 1778 report in the French national grim pace continued until the final fatality here in a few weeks, of the French prison- another monument that also commem- archives, digitized only recently, that on Nov. 22. ers from New-York, 20.” orates the Frenchmen, but in their own brings what happened into focus. But there’s more than numbers and That was the key clue. Plummer language. Translated, it says: Written by Capt. Testace de Gassin, it dates. The dead are fully identified, includlearned that the British and French “In memory of twenty companions of documents a French military hospital ing ranks, birthplaces, and ships, which navies, in New York and Boston, respec- Lafayette, who died for American liberty in established in Norwich to treat ill prison- were both naval vessels and privateers. tively, had exchanged prisoners in the fall the city of Norwich, pious guardian of ers during the exchange. The first to expire was Barthelemy Le of 1778. French memory. A grateful France.” In elegant script, he says the hospital Beuf, and the last was Jean Paul Arnaud. On Oct. 12, the Packet noted that 230 Made of cast iron and enamel and dedi- received 155 men, of whom 127 eventually Almost 250 years after their sacrifice, British prisoners under guard had passed cated in 1934, it bears the name Société left for Boston. Of the rest, three went to these French veterans finally have their through town traveling from Boston to Nationale du Souvenir Français. That Philadelphia, four deserted, and 21 died. names back. New York. On Oct. 23, the Connecticut organization has been known for most of Four more had died on the ships that Gazette reported two ships carrying 400 or its 139 years as simply Le Souvenir brought them. 500 French prisoners from New York had Français, or French Memory. In Caulkins’ account, “the sick were

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Calendar for the Week of August 27, 2026

For more Life & Style stories, visit our website, www.zip06.com. To submit events for the calendar, email news@shorepublishing.com.

THURSDAY, AUG. 27 Virtual Author Talk with Lucy Foley: 2 p.m. Online. Book: Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel. Features a virtual discussion with author Lucy Foley. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org. High Altitudes and High Stakes: A Miss Marple Mystery with Lucy Foley: 2 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Virtual author talk with Lucy Foley about her novel Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Craft and Board Game Night: 6 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features crafts and board games for all ages. Participants may bring their own games. For info or to register, email SMehmet@clintonct.gov.

Chestnut Hill Concert: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features works by Ludwig van Beethoven, Sergei Prokofiev, and Robert Schumann. Programs and artists are subject to change. For info or tickets, visit chestnuthillconcerts.org.

FRIDAY, AUG. 28 THROUGH SUNDAY, AUG. 30 Chester Fair: Opens 6 p.m. Friday; continues through 6 p.m. Sunday. Chester Fairgrounds, 11 Kirtland Terrace, Chester. Agricultural fair featuring exhibits, entertainment, food, and activities. Admission: $10; $8 for seniors and military with ID; free for children age 12 and younger. For info, visit chesterfair.org.

SATURDAY, AUG. 29 Killingworth Road Race: 8:30 a.m. The Congregational Church in Killingworth, 273 Rte. 81. Features a certified four-mile road race open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Proceeds benefit the church's Missions Committee and local outreach organizations. Registration is available online. For info or to register, visit killingworthroadrace.org.

Chester Fair Exhibit Registration: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Chester Fairgrounds, 11 Kirtland Terrace, Chester. Registration for SaturDIY: Yarn Art: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Westbrook Public exhibits at the Chester Fair. For info, visit chesterfair.org. Library, 61 Goodspeed Drive. For adults 18 and older. Participants will create a yarn design on a 4-by-6-inch Concert by Phil and Dan Rosenthal & Naomi Somcanvas. For info or to register (required), call 860-399mers: 7 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Fea6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org. tures original and traditional folk music performed by Phil Rosenthal, Dan Rosenthal, and Naomi Sommers. Saturday Sleuths Book Club: 10 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. ScranHeld on the library patio; moves indoors in case of rain. ton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Bring a lawn chair or use provided seating. Free. For info, Book: The A.B.C. Murders by Agatha Christie. Snacks procall 203-453-8282. vided. For info or to register (preferred), visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

FRIDAY, AUG. 28

Patriotic Paddle and Picnic: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. ConnectiTweens: Magic: The Gathering: 5 to 6 p.m. Killingworth cut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Hosted by the Connecticut River Museum and Essex Land Trust. Features a Library, 301 Rte. 81. Participants ages 9 and older will learn and play Magic: The Gathering. Materials provided. guided canoe and kayak paddle to Historic Falls River Cove, followed by a bring-your-own picnic on the For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or museum lawn with music by the Corinthian Jazz Band. visit killingworthlibrary.org. Participants must provide their own canoe or kayak and safety equipment. Weather dependent. For info or reserThe Music Man Sr.: 6:30 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Features an all-senior produc- vations, contact 860-767-8269 or crm@ctrivermuseum.org, or visit ctrivermuseum.org. tion of Meredith Willson's The Music Man presented by Clinton Senior Connection and Shoreline Theater Academy Kidz Konnection. For info or tickets, email cacampora@clintonct.org.

Essex Village Walking Tour: 5 p.m. Foot of Main Street, in front of the Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St. Features a guided walking tour led by EHS guide Brien Riedell exploring the maritime history of 18th-century Potapaug, Essex's working waterfront, shipbuilding prominence, and development as a visitor destination. Suggested donation: $10 per person. Free for active Essex Historical Society members. For info or to register, call 860-767-0681 or visit essexhistory.org. Madison Salutes Our Heroes Dedication: 5 p.m. Madison Town Green. Dedication of the Madison Salutes Our Heroes flag display honoring veterans, current military personnel, first responders, canines and those who died on 9/11. The display runs through Sept. 12. Hosted by the Madison Exchange Club. For info or to dedicate a flag, visit madisonexchange.org/flags.

SUNDAY, AUG. 30 Broadway's Adrianna Hicks: 2 to 4 p.m. Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Island Rd., Branford. Cost: $41.50. For info, contact 203-315-1901 or Info@LegacyTheatreCT.org The Thimble Islands Affair: 5 to 7:30 p.m. Cut in Two Island, Thimble Islands, Branford. Fundraiser for Legacy Theatre featuring wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, an auction, and an announcement of the theater’s 2027 season. The event will honor Todd and Wendy Renz with the 2026 Anchor Award. For info, contact Anne Runolfsson at Anne@legacytheatrect.org.

MONDAY, AUG. 31 All Ages Board Game Night: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Play board games with family, friends, or other participants. Library games and oversized lawn games will be available, or bring your own. Held on the library lawn, weather permitting. Children age 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. No registration is required. For info, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Registration for Branford Chorale: 6 to 7 p.m. Trinity Episcopal Church, 1109 Main St., Branford. Registration for the Branford Chorale's upcoming season. For info, call 203-296-3391. Con Brio Choral Society Auditions: 7 p.m. Grace Episcopal Church, 336 Main St., Old Saybrook. Auditions for the Con Brio Choral Society. Rehearsals are held Monday evenings from September through April. For info or to schedule an audition, call 860-395-6994 or visit conbrio.org/auditions. See page 23

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

Page Turners Promise Me Never by Liv Constantine A thriller set in the world of publishing? Sign me up! Budding writer Savannah Brooks is thrilled when her scheme to meet the famous and charismatic horror author Bennett Bryson succeeds. Instantly attracted to each other, they marry after a whirlwind courtship. But both are hiding dark secrets, and since this is a Liv Constantine novel, the twists and turns abound! Highly recommended! — Marilyn, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Look What You Made Me Do by John Lanchester The husband of a seemingly perfect, youngish couple suddenly dies. As the wife emerges from the heartbreaking loss, she realizes the intimate details of her relationship are part of a hit TV show called Cheating. What ensues is propulsive, revengeful and stunning — one of the best surprise endings I’ve read in a while. — Roxanne, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

very 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.

You'll Love It Here by Natalie Sue When Mona’s landlady gets injured, she agrees to become a temporary super and ends up invested in the lives of her fellow tenants. This book was so fun! It has such a varied cast of characters whom you can’t help but fall in love with. But the story also has an important message about gentrification and the power of community. — Marisa, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Under the Falls by Richard Russo A famous musician returns to his Appalachian hometown for a concert decades after taking off without a word to anyone. Now he is forced to face the friends he abandoned and a slew of dirty deeds and betrayals that have long been buried. If you’re looking for a quick, gripping page-turner, this one fits the bill. — Karen F., R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Page Turners Continued from page 22

When the Forest Breathes by Suzanne Simard In a world where we’re living through unprecedented storms, wildfires and general destruction of the nature around us, this book is part wake-up call and part guide to why we should be paying closer attention to what the earth needs from us, rather than continuing to take from it faster than it can replenish itself while giving little in return. Mostly a memoir, it reads at times like a thriller. Highly recommend. — Mel, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

The Paradox Club by Charlie Lovett A secret society with interdimensional secrets? The Paradox Club may not be the first book built on such a premise, but the real focus of this intriguing tale is Tess, a young woman who knows nothing of the Club and is somewhat of a puzzle to herself. Her father, a past member, died mysteriously years ago and left her some puzzles to solve, while factions and forces within the Club try to use Tess for their own ends. Readers will delight in this tale of loyalty and betrayal, hidden truths and a radio that receives live broadcasts from the 1930s. — Drew, Breakwater Books, Guilford

Continued from page 21

Milton Makes a Move by Jonathan Graziano, illustrated by Dan Tavis Moms and dads will recognize Milton from Instagram. Milton has many adventures ... and misadventures! — Judi, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Cappella Cantorum Masterworks Chorus Fall Semester Registration: 7 p.m. John Winthrop Middle School cafeteria, 1 Winthrop Rd., Deep River. Registration for the fall semester of the Cappella Cantorum Masterworks Chorus. The first rehearsal begins at 7:30 p.m. Music selections include Christmas Oratorio by Camille Saint-Saëns and other seasonal works for the winter concert. No auditions required. Registration is $65; music extra. For info or to preregister, contact 860532-0454 or info@cappellacantorum.org, or visit cappellacantorum.org.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 1 Why the Ideas That Built America Still Matter with David O. Stewart: 2 p.m. Online. Virtual author talk with historian David O. Stewart about his book, The Democracy We Must Keep, and the founders’ views on democracy. Registration required. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Last Ice Cream Social of Summer: 6 to 8 p.m. St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 1382 Middletown Ave., Northford. Make-your-own sundaes with a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings. Cost: $5 per dish. All are welcome. For info, visit https://www.facebook.com/saintandrewsnorthford. Shoreline Civil War Roundtable: 6:15 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Frank Niederwerfer presents “14th Connecticut: The Final Chapter, Stony Mountain to Appomattox.” Free. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Trivia Night: 6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

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AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

Shoreline Soul Brings Gospel Voices Together Press Release from Shoreline Soul

Professional singer and choir director Angela Clemmons will bring Shoreline Soul back to Guilford this fall for five sessions of gospel music, culminating in a free public concert Sunday, Dec. 6. The workshop welcomes singers of all experience levels, from experienced vocalists to people who haven’t sung in years. No prior gospel experience is necessary, and there is no audition. While the workshop is geared toward adults, young people who can follow lyric sheets are also welcome to participate. Songs are taught by ear rather than from sheet music, and participants receive practice recordings to use between rehearsals. Clemmons says Shoreline Soul is not a religious service but a celebration of gospel music and singing together. The program welcomes people of all faiths as well as those with no religious affiliation. Rehearsals will be held Mondays, Sept. 28, Oct. 5, Oct. 19, Nov. 9, and Nov. 23, from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 122 Broad St., Guilford. The free public concert will be held Sunday, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m. A pre-concert rehearsal for participants will begin at 1:15 p.m. Early registration for the workshop is $85 through Monday, Sept. 14. Registration beginning Tuesday, Sept. 15, is $95.

Photo courtesy of Shoreline Soul

Professional singer and choir director Angela Clemmons will lead the fall Shoreline Soul gospel music workshop in Guilford.

Participants in a previous Shoreline Soul workshop gather in Guilford. The gospel music workshop returns this fall for five rehearsals followed by a free public concert Sunday, Dec. 6.

The fee includes a digital guide vocal recording, with a CD available if needed. Some scholarships are available. Clemmons has worked as a professional singer for more than four decades. Her performance credits include work with Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Celine Dion,

Kenny Loggins, Garth Brooks, and Steely Dan. Her television credits include appearances on Saturday Night Live and The Tony Awards. The daughter of a Pentecostal pastor, Clemmons has a longtime personal connection to gospel music and draws on that

Continued from page 23

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2

come. Bring a notebook or laptop; supplies are also available. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Medicare CHOICES Counseling: One-hour appointments at 3, 4, and 5 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Individual counseling sessions to help older adults and people with disabilities understand Medicare coverage and healthcare options. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Adult Movie Night: 6 to 8 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Route 81, Killingworth. Free movie screening in the adult reading area. Attendees may bring snacks and covered, nonalcoholic beverages. Registration required. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 860-6632000.

Sensory Playtime: 10 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. For ages 0 to 4 and their caregivers. Features interactive stations encouraging exploration, creativity and early learning through touch, sound and movement. Free and open to the public. No registration required. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 3 Extend Your Growing Season: Mastering Fall, Winter, and Spring Crops: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Master gardener Mark Gostkiewicz discusses cultivating crops in the fall, winter and spring. Free and open to all. Registration suggested. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Tiny Thinkers: 10 to 10:45 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Route 81, Killingworth. Begins with a story followed by a STEM/STEAM activity. For toddlers through kindergarten- Living Life Happily: Access to a Cure Fundraiser: ers. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860- 6 to 9:30 p.m. Owenego Inn, 40 Linden Ave., Branford. 663-2000. Event hosted by Peace Love ACCESSibility to benefit the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance. The evening APL Poetry Writing Group: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, includes dinner, stories, raffles and a silent auction. 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Participants write Tickets: $100. For ticket information, visit and share their work with Old Saybrook Poet Laureate linktr.ee/PeaceLoveACCESSibility. Sandra Yannone. All writing experience levels are wel-

background as well as her professional performance experience in leading the workshops. She lives in Westbrook. Space in the workshop is limited. To request a registration form or for more information, email shorelinesoul@ gmail.com or call 203-619-1415.

Shoreline Sailing Club Meeting: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. Open to adults ages 35 and older interested in sailing, boating, and social activities. First-time guests are free; admission is $10 for returning guests. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 5 Perennial Plant Sale: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. United Methodist Church, 811 E. Main St., Branford. Features perennial begonias, hostas, limelight hydrangeas, lobelias, tall Shasta daisies, sedums and more. For info, call 203-4880549. Little One and Loved One Dance Class with Elevé Academy: 9:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. For ages 18 months to 4 years and an adult loved one. Introductory movement class with Miss Kristen featuring music, movement, games and imaginative activities. Free and open to the public. Registration required; space is limited. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

A New Musical Takes Flight at Goodspeed day, Jan. 14, the show was presented to an audience for the first time. It still wasn’t complete; in fact, Gilmour improvised an ending for the show. By this point, Goodspeed’s longtime musical director, Adam Souza, was asked to be its music director. Audience reaction was overall positive, but the team knew much more work was needed. In late 2024, a reading of the work was held for theater professionals in New York City. Work continued.

By Karen Isaacs Special to Living

The journey of a new musical can be years (or decades) long as it goes from an idea to a fully realized production. Often, roadblocks along the way derail the entire enterprise. To get “The Snow Goose” from idea to its world premiere at Goodspeed (through Sunday, Oct. 18) took years and many decisions. Whether those decisions were correct won’t be known until audiences cast their votes. But here’s a look at the journey of “The Snow Goose.”

Putting It on Stage

Background The novella (about 64 pages) “The Snow Goose: A Story of Dunkirk” was written by Paul Gallico in 1941. It tells the story of a young teen girl, a reclusive man along England’s Essex coast, and the wounded snow goose that they care for. She returns every year. Set in the years leading up to and during the beginning of World War II, it is a parable on the power of friendship and constancy to heal. When it was published (first as a briefer story in The Saturday Evening Post), it was popular, though it was both sentimental and a tear-jerker. In 1971, the BBC broadcast a film version of the story starring Richard Harris as the reclusive, disabled artist, Phillip, and Jenny Agutter as Frith, the girl. It was broadcast in the U.S. as part of “The Hallmark Hall of Fame”; it won several awards, including a Golden Globe and an Emmy. A few years later (1975), Gallico sued the British band Camel for distributing an instrumental album titled after the book; they changed the name to “Music Inspired by The Snow Goose.” It proved to be a huge success. A year later, another musical interpretation of the story was produced by RCA with Ed Welch and Spike Milligan as the creative team. b

The Idea Goodspeed’s Artistic Director Donna Lynn Hilton loved the story for many years. She said she had always thought it would make a good musical. Goodspeed decided to commission the work through its GoodWorks Program, and in 2023 Hilton reached out to the writing/composing team of Scott Gilmour and Claire McKenzie, whom she felt had the right sound for the project. They had been involved with the musical “Hi, My Name Is Ben,” which began at the Johnny Mercer Writers Grove at Goodspeed in 2017 and later had a production at the Terris Theatre in 2019.

Photo by Katie Desjardins

Ashlyn Maddox, who plays Frith, rehearses with the cast of Goodspeed’s The Snow Goose.

After reading the book, they agreed. A major step was securing the rights to the work. Without an agreement with those who controlled the copyright, it would be a no-go. Luckily, Goodspeed and the copyright holders reached an agreement for the theater to have an option on the work. b

Decisions How do you take a beloved novella that focuses on two people and a goose, plus atmospheric descriptions, and turn it into a musical? Once they decided it could be musicalized, the next question was: Would it be a chamber musical with only Frith and Phillip, or would the show be “opened up” and include other characters who are only vaguely referred to in the original? They agreed to open it up; this meant including people and events that were not necessarily part of the story. A few townspeople are mentioned, but they never appear. There was also the possible “ick” factor. In the 1942 novella, Fritha (Frith in the musical) is a young girl (possibly 13 or 14) who becomes friends with the disabled and shunned artist Phillip. How would that sit with modern audiences who are so aware of child sexual abuse, grooming, and exploitation? Let’s be clear that no hint of that is in the book. It is just two lonely people who share a love of helping animals and are awed by the snow goose who flew from Canada to the shore of England and returns each year. By the end of the story, Frith is in her later teens. The book covers several years from the

mid-1930s through the evacuation of British soldiers at Dunkirk in 1940. McKenzie, who writes the music, said she thought of English classical composers such as Edward Elgar, Ralph Vaughan Williams, and Benjamin Britten, as well as the sounds of the folk music of the period, which often came from pubs, as she was thinking about what the musical should sound like. During the development process, McKenzie and Gilmour spent two weeks on the Goodspeed campus as participants in the Johnny Mercer Writers Grove and at a similar retreat related to Benjamin Britten in England. They admitted to visiting multiple pubs in that part of England to get atmospheric inspiration. b

Moving Forward As work progressed, it was time to bring in a director for the project. Hilton, McKenzie, and Gilmour considered many possible directors but kept returning to one name — Marshall Pailet. Pailet had won acclaim (and award nominations) for his work on “Private Jones” at the Terris Theatre and at Signature Theatre in Washington, D.C. Hilton reached out to him, and after some discussions, he was on board. With “The Snow Goose” progressing, the next step was to bring in actors and an audience. The musical was selected to be part of the 2025 Festival of New Musicals at Goodspeed. During a two-week period, the show was rehearsed with students from The Hartt School at the University of Hartford under Pailet’s direction. On Sun-

As Hilton and her team were planning Goodspeed’s 2026 main stage season, they decided that “The Snow Goose” was ready for a full production. It was given the fall spot; it runs through Sunday, Oct. 18. Misha Shields came on board as the choreographer for the project. She had choreographed “Private Jones” at the Terris Theatre. As she explained it, movement will flow throughout the work so the audience may not be aware when it becomes a dance. She used terms like fluidity, graceful, simple, and constantly moving. Casting was another issue. In the novella, Phillip, an artist, is described as reclusive in part because the local villagers view him as an outcast due to an unspecified physical disability. The team decided it was important that Phillip have a disability and that the cast include other actors with disabilities. This decision led to conversations about how to sensitively work with the cast. The snow goose is a major character in the piece, but how do you portray it on stage? Puppetry was an obvious answer, but what the goose puppet would look like and how it would be manipulated needed to be decided. The puppet will vary in size; at times, multiple people will be manipulating it, and at other times, parts of the goose will separate. b

Looking Forward The goal is for “The Snow Goose” to go on to future productions, including, possibly, Broadway. Hilton said that during its run in East Haddam, Goodspeed will be inviting and encouraging Broadway professionals — including producers — to see it. Will it become “Annie” or “Shenandoah,” two of the shows that began life at Goodspeed? Who knows? Go see it and let them know what you think. Tickets are available at Good speed.org.

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

History, Music Mark ‘God and Country’ Event in Guilford Press Release from God and Country Organizers

The God and Country commemorative event will bring history programs, music, community organizations, and family activities to the Guilford Green on Saturday, Sept. 12, in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. The event will begin at 2 p.m. at the Guilford Free Library, where the Institute of Connecticut History will present Connecticut During the Revolution. Tom Berrill, portraying Roger Sherman, will lead the presentation. Sherman, a Connecticut statesman and Guilford resident, was among the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Activities will move to the Guilford Green from 3 to 6 p.m. History Without Walls will feature artifacts from the Revolutionary War era, flags, a cannon, and stocks for photo opportunities. The Institute of Connecticut History will also participate. Community organizations scheduled to take part include the Fellowship of ChrisPhoto courtesy of God and Country Event tian Athletes, Adult and Teen Challenge, National Day of Prayer, WIHS Radio A Revolutionary War reenactor leads children during a historical activity. History Without 104.9 FM, Clinton Bible Fellowship Walls will bring Revolutionary War-era artifacts and activities to the Guilford Green as part Church, and Scout Troop 444. The fire and of the God and Country commemorative event Saturday, Sept. 12.

police departments will also be on the Green, with the fire department offering a Touch-a-Truck activity. Kids Markets will feature 30 or more young vendors, ages 5 to 17, selling products they have made. Food vendors will also be available. Music on the stage will include Christian and patriotic selections performed by Brad Chase and Aireborne and the Sky Family Band. Ashley Allen will open with the national anthem and will also perform between the bands. John Saville will serve as master of ceremonies. Berrill, appearing as Roger Sherman, will read excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and prayers from George Washington, John Adams, and other founders. Organizers say the event will focus on the role of religious faith in the nation’s founding and commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The program will also recognize the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. The rain date is Sunday, Sept. 13. The event is sponsored by Agemy Financial Strategies and VFW Post 7666. For more information, email maynland@aol.com or visit the God and Country Event CT Facebook page.

Continued from page 24

TUESDAY, SEPT. 8

Intro to Ballet with Elevé Academy: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. For ages 5 to 8. Introductory ballet class with Miss Kristen from Elevé Academy, designed for kindergarten through second-grade students. Free and open to the public. Registration required; space is limited. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

First Responder Ride for Resilience: A 343-mile cycling ride honoring the 343 firefighters who died on Sept. 11, 2001, passes through Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Clinton, Madison, Guilford, Branford and East Haven. Community members may register to ride, volunteer at designated rest stops or cheer on participants along the route. For info, to register or to volunteer, visit 911ride.org.

Grandparents Day Afternoon Tea: 2:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Third annual Grandparent’s Day celebration for children ages 3 and up and their grandparents. Includes tea, snacks and a Grandparent’s Day craft. Free and open to the public. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Opening Day Reception and Concert: 10 a.m. Guilford Community Center, 32 Church St. Hosted by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning. Features a performance by the United States Coast Guard Brass Quintet. Free. For info or to register, visit ssill.org.

What’s It Worth?: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Author, auctioneer, appraiser and radio show host Mike Ivankovich discusses what determines the value of antiques, collectibles and personal treasures. Attendees can bring an item for appraisal. Mike Ivankovich will participate virtually; patrons can attend at the library or via Zoom. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Tween Dungeons and Dragons: 3:15 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. For students in grades 5 to 8. Features a standalone, one-shot quest with monsters, puzzles and storytelling. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

American Girl Doll Club: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Route 81, Killingworth. Bring a favorite doll for a discussion, activities, and a craft focused on a historical time period. This month features Samantha Parkington and life in the early 1900s. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000.

Louie Listens: Read to a Therapy Dog: 5:15 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Children and families can register for one of three private 15-minute sessions to read to Louie, a licensed therapy dog. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Tuesday Trivia: 6 to 7 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Route 81, Killingworth. Adult Jeopardy-style trivia competition with five categories. Limited to six teams of up to four players. Registration required; only one player per team should register. For info or to register, call 860-6632000.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 6 Diverse Array Opening Reception: 1 to 4 p.m. City Gallery, 994 State St., New Haven. Opening reception for Robert Jacoby’s Diverse Array. Free and open to the public. For info, call 203-782-2489, email info@citygallery.org, or visit city-gallery.org.

MONDAY, SEPT. 7 Movie Matinee: 2 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. For info, including movie title, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Open Mic Night: 5:30 p.m. Henry on Main, 10 West Main St., Clinton. Features an evening of poetry with Clinton Poet Laureate Bethany Howard. Participants can read their poetry or listen. For info, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

See page 28

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Mark Battista, Barnyard Duet, acrylic.

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Jim Laurino, East Street View, Washington, oil.

Landscapes, Food, and Art Fill Lyme Art Association’s Fall Calendar Press release from Lyme Art Association

Lyme Art Association will welcome fall with two exhibitions celebrating New England scenery and food, followed in October by the association’s signature Palate to Palette fundraising gala. New England Landscape, LAA’s annual juried exhibition, celebrates the varied scenery of the East Coast. The exhibition includes depictions of rolling, tree-covered hills, country roads, farmlands, historic homes, and townscapes in a variety of media, exploring artists’ connections to the region’s landscape.

Running concurrently is Bon Appétit, an exhibition featuring depictions of food, farmers markets, and restaurants in a variety of media. New England Landscape and Bon Appétit will be on view from Friday, Sept. 18, through Friday, Nov. 6. An opening reception will be held Sunday, Sept. 20, from 2 to 4 p.m. New England Landscape is supported by Ascend Bank in partnership with the Community Foundation of Middlesex County. On Thursday, Oct. 15, Lyme Art Association will host its signature fundraising

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Henie Kurzman, Summer Salad, soft pastel.

gala, Palate to Palette, from 6 to 9 p.m. at its galleries in Old Lyme. The event will feature live music, food from regional restaurants and caterers, and a silent auction of new artwork created by LAA member artists. Proceeds will support the Lyme Art Association’s exhibitions and special projects. Tickets go on sale in September and are $85 per person. Reservations are required. For more information, visit lymeartassociation.org/palate-to-palette. Founded in 1914 by the American Impressionists, the Lyme Art Association continues the tradition of exhibiting and

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Karen Israel, It’s All About the Greens, pastel.

selling representational artwork by its members and invited artists. The association also offers art instruction, lectures, and other public programs. The Lyme Art Association is located at 90 Lyme Street in Old Lyme in a building designed by architect Charles Adams Platt. Admission is free, with contributions appreciated. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, visit lymeartassociation.org or call 860-434-7802.

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Karen Bartone, Ice Cold Light from My Window, oil.

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

The Journey Behind Zeneli Pizzeria Press Release from New Haven Museum

New Haven Museum will explore the culinary journey that brought Gazmir Zeneli and his brothers, Aleko and Jeshar, to New Haven to build Zeneli Pizzeria during a program Thursday, Sept. 10, at 5:30 p.m. Gazmir Zeneli will present From Albania to Italy to New Haven: The Story of Zeneli Pizzeria with Gorman Bechard and Dean Falcone, co-curators of the Pronounced Ah-Beetz exhibition and producers of the documentary Pizza A Love Story. Admission is free. The program is the latest in the museum’s Monthly Slice series, presented in conjunction with Pronounced Ah-Beetz. Zeneli will discuss the journey behind the New Haven pizzeria. After growing up in Albania, he and his brothers learned the art of pizza-making in Italy as teenagers. The brothers spent more than 30 years developing their craft, working alongside experienced pizzaioli and learning the traditions of Neapolitan pizza. “We will look at why they decided to open a pizza restaurant in a town already over-loaded with pizza places, and the guts it took to open across the street from Pepe’s,” Bechard says. “Plus, the struggles Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum of having opened their restaurant in August 2019, only to have Covid-19 shut it From left, Aleko Zeneli, Gazmir Zeneli, and Jeshar Zeneli of Zeneli Pizzeria. Gazmir Zeneli down months later.” will discuss the brothers’ journey from Albania to Italy and eventually New Haven during a program at New Haven Museum on Thursday, Sept. 10.

Continued from page 26 Create Design with Color, Structure and Seasonal Senescence: 6:45 p.m. Hubley Hall, First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Garden Club of Madison presents New England landscape designer, horticulturist and nurseryman Warren Leach. Open to the public. For info, email gardenclubmadisonct@gmail.com or visit gcmct.org.

Guilford Job Network: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Features guest speakers. Open to all job seekers. For info or to receive the Zoom meeting link, contact Russ Allen at 203-457-0121 or RussAllen2@aol.com.

ONGOING EVENTS Farmers Markets

Dudley Farm Farmers Market: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 31. Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham The Wee Faerie Village at the Florence Griswold Rd., Guilford. Features fresh produce, prepared foods, Museum: 12:30 p.m. St. George’s Parish Hall, 33 Whitfield baked goods, handmade crafts, live music, children’s St., Guilford. Features a presentation by David Rau, senior activities, and seasonal events. For info, email marketdirector of education and visitor engagement at the Flo- manager@dudleyfarmfoundation.com or visit dudleyrence Griswold Museum, about the Wee Faerie Village at farm.com. the historic artists’ colony. Free and open to the public. For info, email guilfordgardenclub06437@gmail.com or Farmers Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds: 4 to visit guilfordgardenclub.org. 7 p.m. Thursdays through October, weather permitting. Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. Features locally All Ages: Tabletop Game Night: 6 p.m. Acton Public grown produce, baked goods, artisan breads, meats, Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features seafood, fresh pasta, eggs, specialty foods, and Connecticard games, role-playing games, board games, console cut-made crafts. Rain or shine. For info, email farmersgames and more. Light refreshments available. Free. Reg- market@guilfordfair.org istration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 9

Zeneli Pizzeria is ranked No. 34 on the 50 Top Pizza USA list and has appeared three times on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in America. The restaurant has also received industry honors for its pizza and pasta. The Pronounced Ah-Beetz exhibition at New Haven Museum includes firsthand oral histories and pizza-related artifacts from personal collections, video footage adapted from the documentary, and photographs. The exhibition’s title comes from a pronunciation of the word apizza, which grew out of the Italian la pizza. The exhibition will remain on view through October 2027. The New Haven Museum has collected, preserved, and interpreted the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its founding as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862. Located at 114 Whitney Ave. in New Haven, the museum maintains collections and presents exhibitions, programs, and outreach related to more than 375 years of New Haven history. As a Blue Star Museum, New Haven Museum offers free admission throughout the year to active-duty military personnel and their families, including members of the National Guard and Reserve. For more information or to register for the program, visit newhavenmuseum.org or call 203-562-4183.

Madison Farmers Market: 3 to 6 p.m. Fridays through Thanksgiving. Madison Town Green, Boston Post Road. Fresh produce, baked goods, meats, seafood, dairy products, flowers, prepared foods, and locally made products from Connecticut vendors. For info, visit madisonctfarmersmarket.com. Old Saybrook Farmers Market: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays through Oct. 28. 210 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features Connecticut-grown and Connecticut-made products from local farmers, food producers, and artisans. For info, visit the Old Saybrook Farmers Market on Facebook. Stony Creek Farmers Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1. Bayview Park, Thimble Island Rd., Stony Creek. Features a weekly market with local produce, baked goods, seafood, meats, crafts, live music, and family activities. For info, call 203-988-9335 or email shreichert@gmail.com, or visit scfarmersmarket.org.

To submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email to news@shorepublishing.com. For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website zip06.com. The deadline for submissions is noon, eight days prior to the publication date.

SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Valley Courier Valley Courier Thursday, August 27, 2026

S ports Deep River Horseshoe League:

Giants Hold Lead on Near-Record Scoring Night By Serenity J. Bishop Sports Editor

With the feels-like temperature in the mid-80s and humidity at 70%, partly cloudy skies helped block some of the sun’s heat. Two hours into play, the cloud cover increased and the threat of rain was in the offing. Finally, as most teams were in their final game, a light, steady rain began. Play continued, with scorekeepers doing their best to keep the score sheets dry. Within a half-hour of the completion of play, the rain stopped. The league had its strongest scoring night since 2021. Five teams topped 300 points: Tigers, 347; Dodgers, 334; Cubs, 333; Pirates, 303; and Orioles, 302. The league totaled 4,994 points—just two shy of the single-night record—along with season highs of 1,068 ringers and 124 doubles. Teams averaged 277 points, 18 more than last week. Only one team had hit the 80ringer mark in a match this season. Tonight, three teams topped the mark, led by the Dodgers with 86 ringers, the Tigers with 85, and the Cards with 80. The Giants increased their first-place lead despite a 3 1/2-2 1/2 loss to the D’backs; Paul Noel led the Tigers to a 4-2 win over the White Sox; Hunter Beckwith’s season-best series led the Dodgers to a 4 1/2-1 1/2 win over the Pirates; and, with a 4-2 win over the Braves, the Orioles remained on the bubble. The Rockies, who lost 4 1/2-1 1/2 to the Cubs; the Marlins, who lost 4-2 to the Mets; the Cards, who split with the Rangers; and the D’backs, who topped the Giants 3 1/2-2 1/2, also remained on the bubble. The White Sox were looking to regain first place in their match against Sheryl Serviss’s Tigers. Cody Layton subbed for Sox player Brady Miller, and Paul Noel replaced Tigers player Anthony Conkling. The Sox won two of the first three games: game one by double digits and game three using their handicap. The Tigers won the final three games. The teams’ last game of the night generated a buzz around the courts. In his first three games, Noel, who was not familiar with Serviss’s Amex shoes, had three games in the mid-20s, but in the finale, he said something clicked with his delivery. He finished with a personal-best game of

Photo courtesy of Joseph Heery

White Sox players Brady Miller, Bob Beckwith, and Kyle Wilson lead team to first place in Deep River Horseshoe League.

55 points, 17 ringers, and six doubles. He set season league highs in five of six statistical categories for the B division, and his 132-point series was the leading score. Add in Serviss’s season-best 129-point series along with Dennis Goodrich’s 86 points, and the team scored a season league high of 347 points along with 85 ringers. The Sox remained in second place, 1 1/2 games behind the Giants. John Sciacca’s D’backs knew the match against Mike Zanelli Sr.’s Giants was piv-

otal to making the playoffs. In the first three games, John O’Brien was the key to two D’backs wins. The teams split the two A/B games: Zanelli’s 36 points led to the win in game two, and Sciacca and Butch Carotenuto combined for 59 points in game five. In game four, the D’backs used their two handicap points to earn a tie. In the final game, the D’backs had a seven-point lead going into the last three boxes. Valentin doubled in the 10th and 11th boxes, and Fortier’s double in the last

box gave the Giants the win. The Giants edged the D’backs, 282-272. The D’backs remained on the bubble. The Dodgers have embraced the “spoiler” role, winning 8 1/2 games and averaging 260 points in their last two matches. Over the last five games, Skip Robinson’s Pirates have been averaging 287 points. After winning game one, Jeremy Davis’s Dodgers showed why they are the spoilers by winning the next three games by double digits: Hunter Beckwith scored 36 points in game two; he and Ralph Sampson combined for 54 points in game three; and Davis added 40 points in game four. The Pirates had a chance to get a win in game five but were outscored 10-0 in the last box. The two handicap points earned the teams a tie. Beckwith’s 33 points in the last game gave the Dodgers their fourth win. Beckwith’s 128-point series was a personal best and the second-leading score in the B division. Pirates player Gary Stevens’ 98-point series was second and Sampson’s 93 points were third among C division scorers. This was the highest-scoring match of the week, and the teams combined for 637 points: Dodgers, 334 points, 86 ringers, and 12 doubles; Pirates, 303 points, 65 ringers, and eight doubles. In their last two matches, Frank Rausch’s Braves had won only three games and scored 20 points under their season average. Mike Zanelli Jr.’s Orioles were looking to win successive matches. They got off to a quick start by winning the first three games: Zanelli matched Rausch, and it was Andy Turshen’s points that made the difference in game one; they used their handicap in game two; and Orioles player Ted Dubay matched Mike Beckwith in the third game, so it was Turshen’s points that gave the Orioles their third win. The Braves won the next two games as Rausch outscored Zanelli, 81-69. Dubay’s 34 points in the final game gave the Orioles a 4-2 win. Rausch’s 156-point series tied for the top score in the A division. The Orioles held onto eighth place by a halfgame. They remained a bubble team. See Deep River Horseshoe page 31

AUGUST 27, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • SPORTS

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier

Valley Regional football will open the 2026 season at home against the Weaver-Hartford Public-Classical co-op Sept. 10.

Shoreline Conference Fall Season Set to Begin Sept. 8 By Serenity J. Bishop Sports Editor

The start of the fall sports season is just around the corner for the Shoreline Conference, with boys soccer, girls soccer, volleyball, and field hockey teams preparing to take the field beginning Sept. 8. Football will follow two days later, with several Shoreline teams scheduled to open their seasons Sept. 10. Valley Regional will have a busy opening week across its fall sports slate. The Warriors’ boys soccer team opens Sept. 8 on the road against Hale Ray, while the girls soccer team hosts the Little Noises the same day. Volleyball also begins Sept.

8 at home against Coginchaug. Field hockey opens Sept. 10 with a road matchup against North Branford, while football kicks off at home against a Weaver-Hartford Public-Classical co-op. North Branford will also get its season underway Sept. 8 in three sports. The boys soccer team hosts Cromwell, while the girls soccer team travels to Cromwell. Volleyball hosts the Panthers. The Thunderbirds’ field hockey team opens Sept. 10 at home against Valley Regional. North Branford football will also begin Sept. 10, traveling to face the MSW co-op, made up of Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and Morgan.

Old Saybrook’s field hockey team has a quick turnaround to begin the season, opening with back-to-back games. The Rams host the Wild Knights Sept. 11 before traveling to East Lyme Sept. 12. Old Saybrook boys soccer begins Sept. 8 at home against East Hampton, while the girls soccer team travels to East Hampton that day. The MSW football co-op opens Sept. 10 on the road against North Branford. Morgan will also begin competition Sept. 8. The Huskies’ field hockey team travels to Sacred Heart Academy, while the boys soccer team visits Lyme-Old Lyme. Girls soccer hosts Sacred Heart

Academy, and volleyball travels to East Hampton. Westbrook’s fall season gets underway Sept. 8 as well. The field hockey team travels to Sheehan, while the boys soccer team visits Coginchaug. The girls soccer team hosts the Blue Devils. With the Shoreline Conference’s fall sports slate packed with familiar rivals and early-season matchups, teams will have little time to ease into the new season. From soccer and volleyball opening Sept. 8 to field hockey and football following shortly after, the conference is ready to begin another fall campaign.

SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • AUGUST 27, 2026

Deep River Horseshoe League Continued from page 29 Sue Pollard’s Rockies and Bob Cifaldi’s Cubs had team averages within three points of each other. The Rockies had two subs: Keith Toohey for Warren Bellows and Bob Thomas for Anthony Malerba. The change in handicap favored the Rockies. Four of the games were decided by double digits. Cifaldi single-handedly won three games: 47 points in game one, 40 points in game two, and 37 points in game four. The Rockies had to use the handicap to salvage a tie in the third game after scoring only seven points in seven boxes. Pollard got the best of Cifaldi in the fifth game, 35-21, for the win. The Cubs won the final game. Cifaldi’s season-best 145-point series and Cubs player Scott Allen Jr.’s 107-point series were the third-best scores in the A and B divisions, respectively. Add in Peter Lessard’s 81 points, and the Cubs scored 333. Cifaldi had no open boxes in his four games—the second player in two weeks to accomplish the feat. With the 4 1/2-1 1/2 win, the Cubs moved into third place. The Rockies were in seventh place and became a bubble team with a half-game lead over the Orioles. John Hutra’s Marlins, coming off a sweep, felt secure in their playoff position. Discounting the win via forfeit, Mark Goodale’s Mets were looking to win their first match since week eight. Marlins player Leif Selander’s personal-best 41 points were the only points needed to win game one. The Marlins could not top Goodale’s 37 points in game two, and the Mets’ momentum carried through to wins in the next three games. The Marlins won the last game. This was the only match in which the combined score was under 600 points. Selander’s personal-best 98-point series was the top C division score. The Marlins were in sixth place. The Cards, tied for eighth coming into the night, needed a big win over Peter Furmonavicius’s Rangers to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Cards got off to a fast start by winning the first three games: Kris Toohey won game one; Toohey and

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Todd Nuhn won game two by double digits; and, with the score tied at the completion of game three, the Cards used their handicap for a two-point win. The Rangers won the last three games: Furmonavicius and Emily Taylor outdueled Toohey and Todd Norton to win by five; John Durinick and Furmonavicius combined for 61 points and had to use their handicap to defeat the Cards’ highscoring duo; and Durinick and Taylor combined for the points needed to win the final game by seven. Toohey finished tied with Rausch as the top scorer for the night with a 156-point series. With the split, the Cards remained on the bubble in ninth place, one game behind the Orioles. When Dennis Allen’s Yankees faced Tony Cutone’s Angels, it was for pride and a chance to improve their season records. Joe Machado’s season-best game of 27 points gave the Yanks the win in game one, and they followed by winning game two by double digits. The Angels went on to win the next four games, including using their handicap to win the final game. Angels player Paul Chrystal had a seasonbest 73-point series. There was only a fivepoint difference in the teams’ final scores: Angels 259, Yankees 254. Finally, Bill Beckwith’s Red Sox entered the night with momentum after winning their last two matches. The question was whether it would continue against Chip Goodrich’s Reds. Damin Roberts subbed for Reds player Pudge Goodrich. The handicap favored the Reds in four of the six games. The Sox won the first two games, each by five points. It was Beckwith’s points in game one as Weselcouch matched Reds player Andy Konefal’s score; Paul Stevens teamed with Beckwith in game two. Roberts single-handedly won game three. The pairings that won the first two games won the next two, and the Reds won the finale. With their third 4-2 win in a row, the Sox moved within one game of 17th place. Beckwith remained optimistic his team would make it out of last place before the season ends.

Day 27 28 29 30 31 1 2

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