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September 24, 2026

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Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXVI Iss. 39

Essex Voters to Decide on $12.7M Capital Projects By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer

Essex voters will decide at the ballot box on $12.7 million for various town projects at a referendum Tuesday, Sept. 29. The projects included in the resolution address needed repairs and improvements to public infrastructure and buildings, particularly roads

and bridges, public safety facilities, and Essex Elementary School. The bonding resolution and the projects included were discussed at a special meeting at Essex Town Hall on Sept. 16, with details provided by First Selectman Norm Needleman and the town’s Capital Committee. According to town officials, the total cost of the resolution includes $10 million in bond-

ing and $2.7 million in anticipated grant reimbursements. Needleman said Essex is legally required by state law to vote on a total cost that includes expected reimbursements. The first selectman added that because of the “needs-based approach” of the bonding resolution, which considers multiple projects See Essex Voters page 9

Strickland Hyde continues a lifetime of service to Essex.................2

Paws on Parade

Different Ways to Win Valley Regional football opens 2-0 behind contributions from its offense Golden retrievers Betty White, left, and defense.................................12 and Butters march with owner Cherie Neve of the Farm on Deep River during the Deep River Pet Parade on Sept. 19. The parade was part of Deep River Day, a townwide celebration that also included a 5K race, a community corner at Town Hall, specials at local businesses and an evening fireworks display at Plattwood Park.

Photo by Laura Matesky/ Valley Courier

Scotland Calls A journey through castles, coastlines, and the Highlands...............19

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Strickland Hyde: A Lifetime of Service to Essex By Pam Young Correspondent

Strickland Hyde started getting to know his Essex neighbors when he was 8 years old, delivering their newspapers and picking up odd jobs along the way. More than seven decades later, those connections to his hometown remain central to his life. A fifth-generation Essex resident, Strickland has served his community through the fire department, Park and Recreation, and other volunteer efforts. Today, he is president of the Essex Foundation, where he helps direct support to organizations, projects, and residents throughout the town. “I started off in town as a paper boy at 8 years old,” Strickland says. “I really got to know the neighbors and was then doing odds and ends jobs for people.” Strickland was born in Newport News, Virginia, in 1943 at an Army base and moved to Essex, where he has lived ever since. He attended Valley Regional High

Person

of the Week School in Deep River before learning a trade and working as a tool and die maker and machinist for about three years. In 1966, Strickland was drafted into the Army. A Vietnam veteran, he spent 18 months of his tour in Okinawa and was discharged as a specialist fifth class. He returned home to Essex, started a family, and settled on land that had been in his family for 150 years. Strickland later found an opportunity in marine construction and became part owner of a dock company in town. He spent 45 years in the business, working on recreational and commercial docks and other construction projects before retiring. His involvement in Essex

extended well beyond his career. “After the service is when I joined the fire department, Essex Fire Engine Co #1 around 1972,” Strickland says. “My wife was an EMT there too. At one point I was on the Park and Recreation department and did other volunteer work in town. I was involved in many programs and that was how I came to be known in town.” That history eventually led him to the Essex Foundation. The Foundation dates to the 1970s, and Strickland says his younger brother was among those involved in its formation. After his brother died several years ago, Strickland was asked to become involved himself. “I was asked to come aboard and have been with the foundation 13 years now,” he says. Strickland has served as president for the past four years. “The people in of the FoundaPhoto courtesy of Strickland Hyde tion were looking for a native and I am the 5th generation in Essex,” Fifth-generation Essex resident Strickland Hyde has spent decades serving his hometown and now leads the Essex Foundation, which pro-

See Strickland Hyde page 10 vides support for local organizations, projects, schools, and residents.

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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Inside

the hosting company Living COFFEE & SHOPPE

CO M E FO R T H E CO F F E E S TAY FO R

E V E RY T H I N G ELSE

With the Kinks Ironed Out Karen Isaacs finds plenty of laughs in Legacy Theatre’s The Odd Couple.............21 The Millionaires’ Unit New Haven Museum explores Yale’s pioneering World War I aviators..................24 First Friday in Chester Art, music, and celebrations fill the village Oct. 2............................................................25

Quote

of the week

104 MAIN STREET I VO RY T O N , CO N N E C T I C U T @ T H E _ H O S T I N G CO M PA N Y T H E H O S T I N G CO M PA N Y . S H O P

C A F É | H O M E & TA B L E | F L O R A L | P R O V I S I O N S

“The team chemistry right now has really been clicking. You could tell a lot of those guys are really on the same page right now,”

— Phil Cohen................12

Index Letters................................................... 4 Obituaries............................................ 5 Sports..................................................12 Tides....................................................13 Classifieds..........................................14 Sudoku...............................................18

Valley Courier

(usps 021-267) Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Deep River, CT 06417 Postmaster: Send address changes to Valley Courier, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320

Living..................................................19 Calendar.............................................20 Horoscopes.......................................28 Crossword Puzzle...........................28 Real Estate.........................................30

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

to Letters the Editor Practical Leadership Essex, Chester, & Deep River’s Hometown Newspaper

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

I strongly support Renee LaMark Muir’s reelection as our state representative. She brings something we need more of in Hartford: practical leadership grounded in real experience and a commitment to solving problems. Renee serves on the Judiciary, Planning & Development, and Public Safety & Security committees. Her background as a police officer and detective, special investigator, and legislative policy analyst gives her a valuable perspective on public safety and turning community concerns into meaningful action. Her recent work on e-bike safety is a great example. Renee organized a program at Deep River Elementary School with the Connecticut State Police and Department of Transportation, bringing

parents and young riders together to learn the rules of the road, practice safe riding, and understand appropriate speeds and proper helmets. That is leadership that works. E-bike safety is not about discouraging young people from riding; it is about education, responsibility, and protecting everyone who shares our roads. Renee listens, engages, and takes action. She understands our communities because she lives here and works directly with us. We need her experience and common-sense approach in Hartford. I urge our neighbors to join me in voting to reelect Renee LaMark Muir. Joanna Urban Deep River

A Potential Oligarchy Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

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

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Eric O’Connell Staff Reporter

Aaron Rubin Staff Reporter

Word is that small towns are offering fewer volunteer positions and that filling them is difficult. I contacted the Animal Control Department to see about volunteering and was told that its volunteer program wasn’t up and running yet. That was two years ago. The town provides a webpage for residents to apply to be volunteers. One category of volunteer positions is to be on one of the town’s boards, commissions, or departments. A second category is for positions in emergency services. To apply, you click on to a list of the various boards, commissions, and departments or on to a list of the various emergency service opportunities. Then you return to the volunteer webpage and complete an application for the position that interests you. There are 12 boards, commissions, and departments from which to choose. You’ll notice that the form asks if you are a resident, employed, a registered voter, and, if so, your political party

affiliation. There isn’t a place to indicate that you’re retired. The form instructs you to submit your application to the selectman’s office. If you submit yours in person, you may find out from the clerical staff that this is not how it is most frequently done. Apparently, names are passed on by friends, associates, and colleagues to the selectmen, who choose and appoint whom they want to govern the town. The selectmen have what would seem to be unbridled power to shape and control the governance of the town. Added to that power is the selection of town officials, nine of whom are elected by voters and 13 are appointed by the selectmen. From what I learned in my government class at Valley Regional High School, I think this arrangement has the potential to be an oligarchy, a government controlled by a privileged few. Gary Comstock Essex

Shoreline Soul Gospel Workshop Seeks Singers Professional singer and choir director Angela Clemmons will lead another season of Shoreline Soul, a five-session gospel music workshop open to singers of all experience levels. No audition or previous gospel experience is required, and songs are taught by ear rather than from sheet music. Sessions will be held Mondays, Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and 19, and Nov. 9 and 23, from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 122 Broad St., Guilford, culminating in a free public concert Sunday, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m. Early registration is $85 through Sept. 14 and $95 beginning Sept. 15. Some scholarships are available. For more information or to request a registration form, call Angela Clemmons at 203-619-1415 or email shorelinesoul@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Obituaries

Contacting Valley Courier

Obituary

Margaret Sprague Chester Margaret “Margie” Molitor Sprague, of Chester and formerly of Madison, passed away peacefully on Sept. 1, 2026, at the age of 88. She was born in Elgin, Ill., on Feb. 23, 1938, the daughter of Arvid Axel Molitor and Anna Louise Kenyon Molitor. Surviving her are her husband, Kent; sons, James (Lori) Sprague of Dexter, Mich., and Paul (Sanna) Sprague of Madison; and daughter Cynthia (Ken) Dreier of Madison. She also leaves her sister, Martha Bulin, of Chicago, Ill.; and four grandchildren: Kent (Hannah) Sprague of New York, N.Y., JuxtaPrax Davi (Lauren) Sprague of Calumet, Mich., Bennett Sprague of Syracuse, N.Y., and Elena Dreier of Detroit, Mich. Margaret and Kent’s long partnership began when they met as college students and included a loving 66-year marriage. They were enthusiastic and active members of the First Congregational Church of Madison for more than 50 years. Together, they lived in five different states, making lifelong friends spanning from the plains of the Midwest to the coast of the Pacific Ocean and the shores of Long Island Sound. Margaret graduated from Elgin High School in Elgin, Ill., and earned a degree in publication management from the School of Journalism at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she worked as a reporter and managing editor for the independent student newspaper, The Daily Illini. She began her professional journalism career as the first woman to work on the city desk for the Sioux Falls, S.D., Argus Leader, followed by positions ranging from stringer to writer and editor at the Minneapolis Tribune,

ShoreLine Times, and for a book publisher. She was best known in Madison for her energetic involvement as the first paid administrator of the Madison Chamber of Commerce and as the owner and president of Two Ems Press. For 41 years, her downtown business provided full publishing, printing, and retail services for the shoreline community. Margaret retired from working full-time at the age of 83. Margaret had varied interests and enjoyed volunteering, often in leadership roles, for the church and many service organizations, including Phi Mu Fraternity, the American Association of University Women, the Deacon John Grave Foundation, the Madison Historical Society, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. The Girl Scouts held a special place in Margaret's heart throughout her life. As a camp counselor, waterfront director, troop leader, trainer, and president for Connecticut Girl Scouts, she taught countless young girls important life skills. As a storyteller, Margaret created and published a lifestyle magazine for women, produced her own television show on community cable access, and wrote and presented first-person historical accounts to teach new generations about spinning wool and the lives of influential American women. She enjoyed reading, writing, genealogy, travel, oil painting, singing, dancing with Kent, and arranging musical productions at family gatherings. A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31, at the First Congregational Church of Madison, followed by a reception celebrating Margaret’s life in the church’s Angela Hubley Hall. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in honor of Margaret Sprague to the Memorial Gift Fund of the First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Lane, Madison, CT 06443. See Obituaries page 7

Friends of the Essex Library Holds Book Sale The Friends of the Essex Library is holding a book sale through Oct. 15 at the Essex Library, 33 West Avenue. The sale features literature, poetry, humor, politics, and religion. Hardcover books are $3 or two for $5, and paperback books are $2. For more information, visit youressexlibrary.org.

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. Letters must be written by the submitter; anonymous, pseudonymous, or third-party submissions will be declined. No more than four signees are permitted. Letters must be 300 words or fewer; election-related letters are limited to 200 words. Letters are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Writers may be asked to provide sources for factual claims. Civility is required. Letters containing personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined. For candidate endorsements, Shore Publishing accepts one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative candidate content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections. For editions through Oct. 29, all letters must be received by 5 p.m. Tuesday, nine days prior to publication, and verbally confirmed by 4 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Complete policies are available at www.zip06.com/live-content/letters-policy. Letters may be emailed 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.

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Envision Your Future: Cottage Homes for Active Adults

Focus Group for Adults Age 60 or Better

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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Obituaries Continued from page 5 Obituary

Doris Pierce Ivoryton

Join the Deep River Ancient Fife and Drum Corps The Deep River Junior Ancient Fife & Drum Corps is welcoming new members ages 6 to 21. No experience is necessary to learn to play fife and drums and march. The family-oriented group emphasizes friendship, teamwork, and camaraderie while introducing members to a proud tradition. The group meets Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Deep River Elementary School, 12 River Street. For more information, contact 860-301-9305 or email info@deepriverjuniorancients.org.

Drag Queen Bingo Benefits Chester Library

The Friends of the Chester Public Library will hold its third annual Drag Queen Bingo their lunch money, Grammy was there fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 7 to 10 p.m. at Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty to lend them some! Doris remained in that position until her retirement at the St. Doors open at 6 p.m. The event features the Darling Divas and is open to adults ages 21 and older. Attendees may bring their own food and beverages. Tickets are age of 70, and, for several years after, $28.52 for spectators and $44.52 for general admission. For more information or she continued to work as a substitute. tickets, visit eventbrite.com/e/drag-queen-bingo-library-fundraiser-ticketsDoris and Dick led a full life—raising 1997773307742. their four children, helping out with their grandchildren, entertaining family and friends at both their home and Mobi, their getaway in Vermont. They enjoyed skiing, traveling, and rooting FREE ESTIMATES • LOWEST PRICES for the NY Yankees and UConn Basketball teams. AND, no one could beat Doris’ lasagna—hers was a never-fail recipe that her daughters still swear by KITCHEN & BATH CABINETS today! Doris was predeceased by Richard, COUNTERTOPS her beloved husband of 70 years; her FIREPLACES & STOVES son, Mark; her parents; brother, Gordon Freer; and sister-in-law, Alice. Doris is 202 Main Street Deep River, CT survived by her daughters, Debbie 202 Main Street | Deep River Breaux of Cromwell and Lynn Giroux 860.526.9567 www.PondsideKitchens.com (Dennis) of Chester; son, James Pierce www.pondsidekitchens.com (Rhonda) of Lewisburg, W.Va.; seven grandchildren: Paul Giroux (Lauren), GE T Dominique Giroux (David), Alyson Hall CA READ (William), Kara Holliday (Bryan), Tori LL Y FO TO R 2 Nahouse (Christian), Jennifer Pierce DA 027 Y! (Ivory), and Austen Pierce (Caterina); and nine great-grandchildren: Chloe, Camilla, and Elliana Giroux; Jackson HOMEGROWN WITHOUT THE HASSLE Riddle; Abel, Reed, and Reagan HolliWhether you’ve dreamed of harvesting fresh vegetables, picking day; Marilyn Nahouse; and Wilder herbs for dinner, gathering sweet berries, or cutting your own Grundhoefer. Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral colorful bouquets, Sprigs & Twigs can make it a reality. Home will be handling all arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at St. John Church, 5 St. John Court, Cromwell. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ivoryton Library, 106 Main St., P.O. Box 515, Ivoryton, CT 06442, would be appreciated. To share a Construction Maintenance memory of Doris or leave a condolence • Signature garden designs for • Complete seasonal garden for her family, please visit households of every size care by experienced gardeners www.rwwfh.com. • Fully custom garden options available • Planning and planting See Obituaries page 8 • Handcrafted from durable white cedar • Pruning and weeding • Built for years of productive, • Fertilizing and soil care successful growing • Organic pest management Lyme Art Association Opens Fall Exhibitions • Beautiful, functional, and made to last

Doris Freer Pierce passed peacefully on Sept. 5, 2026, surrounded by her family. Doris was born in Hartford on Oct. 28, 1929, to Arthur G. and Irene (DeSautel) Freer. She grew up in Hartford, graduating from Bulkeley High School in 1947. After graduation, Doris began her secretarial career at Connecticut General Insurance Company; leaving there in 1953, to begin raising her family. Doris had met the love of her life, Richard, at a Friday night dance held at a local church hall. Dick was in the U.S. Navy and was spending a weekend leave with his sister’s family. Fate intervened when Dick’s sister convinced him to attend the local dance, while Doris’s friends encouraged her to go. The rest is history. . . The musical, South Pacific, had been enjoying great popularity, and the well-known song from that movie, “Some Enchanted Evening,” became their song . . . two strangers meeting “across a crowded” room . . . never to dream alone again. . . .” After Dick’s discharge from the Navy in 1951, the couple resided in East Hartford, where they began their family, and eventually settled in Ivoryton, where they lived for over 60 years. Once her children were in school, Doris resumed her secretarial career. In 1970, Doris and Tim Doyle became the first secretary/principal team of the newly opened John Winthrop Junior High School in Deep River. As such, Doris saw her daughter, Lynn, and Lynn’s children come through the school; they always knew if they forgot

Lyme Art Association, 90 Lyme St., Old Lyme, will present New England Landscape and Bon Appétit through Nov. 6. New England Landscape is the association’s annual juried exhibition celebrating East Coast scenery, while Bon Appétit features artwork inspired by food, farmers markets, and restaurants. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, call 860-434-7802, email info@lymeartassociation.org, or visit lymeartassociation.org.

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

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 Friday, Oct. 2, from 5 to 8:30 p.m., with refreshments served, and Sunday, Sept. 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.

Fall Learning Underway The Congregational Church in Killingworth is launching a Fall Learning Series featuring weekly classes, community gatherings, and monthly workshops beginning in September. Weekly programs include free Community Coffee at 10 a.m. Mondays; Yoga for Anxiety with Cynthia Sarris at 9 a.m. Tuesdays, $25 per person; and Learn to Play Mahjong with Sandy Allard at 9 a.m. Wednesdays, $40 per person. Monthly programs include Bounding Beyond Boundaries: Building Community at Any Age with Emma Dufresne of Women & Family Life Center at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, free; an Art Therapy Workshop with Briana Benn-Mirandi at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 16, $40; and Paint Night with Cindy Stevens at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, $40. Programs are held at the church, 273 Rte. 81, Killingworth, and are open to the community. For more information, call 860-663-1789, email office@killingworthchurch.org, or visit killingworthchurch.org.

Volunteers Needed to Tutor Adult English Learners Literacy Volunteers Valley Shore is accepting applications for its Fall 2026 tutor training workshop. Volunteers will learn how to teach English to adult residents from around the world. No teaching experience is required. The free 12-hour workshop meets over eight sessions beginning Thursday, Sept. 24. Morning sessions are held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Evening sessions are offered from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in a hybrid format. An online self-paced training option is also available. A $40 donation for training materials is requested. For more information or to apply, contact 860-399-0280 or info@lvvs.org, or visit www.lvvs.org.

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Obituaries

Continued from page 7 Obituary

Clay Duplessis Deep River Clay Ward Duplessis, born April 21, 1957, in Middletown, passed away on Aug. 14, 2026, after a long illness. He was the son of Howard and Anne (Cameron) duPlessis of Deep River. He grew up and attended school there, graduating from VRHS with the Class of 1975. After graduation, Clay ventured west, finding work in Oregon, Washington, and even as a lumberjack in Montana. He valued each experience and carried the knowledge and skills he gained from all of them throughout his life. Clay grew up around the water and had a lifelong love and appreciation for boats and sailing acquired through long family tradition. After returning from his western adventures, he focused that interest by studying wooden boatbuilding in Calais, Maine, then working as an independent boatbuilder and restorer in the Deep River area. He last worked at Thames Shipyard in New London, where the skills, ingenuity, and work ethic he was known for, and the pride in his work he'd demonstrated all his life, served him well. From the time he was young, Clay felt a connection to the spirituality and traditions of his father's Native American ancestors. He continued on that path as an adult, meeting fellow travelers and making connections he deeply valued. He even found time, while

working and supporting his family, to volunteer with Algonquin Elders of the East Coast, assisting them in bringing Native ceremony to Connecticut prisons. Clay is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Barbara Cooper, of Manchester; his son Clay Jr. of Acton, Maine; his brother Gary and his wife Laurie (James) of Deep River; his sister, Janine, of Tacoma, Wash.; his brother Guy and his wife Lili Hayes of Hull, Mass.; his stepsons, Ian Jones of Ithaca, N.Y., and Cameron Jones of NYC; and his stepgrandson, Kaelan Taschner of Caledonia, N.Y.; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, inlaws, and treasured friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his son Daniel, who passed away earlier this year. Clay was a gentle man who especially loved music, being in or near water, and being out with the wildlife in the peace of the natural world. His family will most miss his easy nature, his big heart, the love for animals that brought many strays into his heart and home, and his reverence for nature and the beauty he found in it everywhere. He loved a good story and a good laugh, too, and we especially loved sharing those happy times with him. We suggest donations in Clay's name be made to Dig Deep, an organization making clean running water available in long underserved areas of the U.S. A celebration of Clay's life will be planned for a later date.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF DEEP RIVER WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY

756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook 860-388-9665 Like us on

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Beverly P. Goodrich Insurance Licensed Insurance Agent Serving All Shoreline Counties

860-526-4257

beverlygoodrich@comcast.net Not affiliated with any government agency including Medicare. I do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently I represent 8 organizations which offer 60 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all your options.

Legal notice is hereby given to all users of Deep River’s municipal sewers that the first installment of all sewer operation & maintenance charges for the period October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027 is hereby due and payable on October 1, 2026. The first installment becomes delinquent if not paid by November 4, 2026. The interest rate on delinquent sewer use charges is one and one-half percent for each month or fraction thereof which elapses after October 1, 2026. A minimum interest charge of $2.00 is made on all delinquent sewer operation & maintenance fees. Payments may be made online (fees apply), at the Office of the Tax Collector, Town Hall, 174 Main Street, Deep River, or mailed to: Tax Collector, PO Box 13, Deep River, CT 06417. Office hours during October: TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY 9:00 TO 12:00 & 1:00 to 4:00; and THURSDAY 9:00 TO 12:00 & 1:00 TO 6:00

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Essex Voters to Decide on $12.7M Capital Projects Continued from page 1 as one package, town officials determined that voting on all items on one ballot and “far enough away” from Election Day was the best approach. Voting will take place from noon to 8 p.m. Sept. 29 at Essex Town Hall. Among the costlier projects are repairs to Old Deep River Bridge and the bridge on River Road for $2.75 million. Both structures are in need of rehabilitation, according to the Capital Committee, and are deemed a priority for improvements by the state Department of Transportation. For Old Deep River Bridge, the town expects a cost of $750,000 out of the total bonding resolution, while the River Road bridge will require $2 million, with an expected match from the state of 20% of the cost. The rehabilitation of town roads constitutes the largest expense in the bonding package, with $3.7 million in costs. Similar to the bridges, roads are facing “poor pavement conditions” due to aging and recent harsh winter conditions contributing to the deterioration, according to information presented by the committee. The committee is recommending the town construct “new and resilient roads to support increased traffic and freight” and “enhance drainage, curbing, and protect against storm - related events.” Town officials attributed the cost to a 50% increase in road construction costs since 2020. The Public Works Department’s campus, which includes the animal control building, is dealing with insufficient space and an “inadequate workspace” for employees, according to the committee. To address this, the town plans to use $2 million in bonding to relocate animal control to a new location and construct a facility for its operations, while the old animal control building will be re-outfitted for Public Works as a two-bay garage with several improvements to existing building conditions.

“Fortunately, for this project, we did get a STEAP (Small Town Economic Assistance Program) grant,” said committee Chair Bruce Glowac. The STEAP grant is $1 million and will match half of the overall project concerning Public Works and Animal Control. Both the police and fire departments are due for $1.65 million for various systems and structural improvements, as well as the acquisition of a new fire truck. For the police department, there is a plan to construct a new garage for the department’s vehicles to “get them under cover so we get some more life out of them,” Glowac said. Essex Elementary School is being considered for $1.2 million in several structural and systems improvements, as well as the installation of a standby generator, partly to power it as an emergency shelter in Essex. “We think that that facility, obviously, is an ideal facility in case that we had a disaster in town for emergency shelter, and it makes sense not only to keep our kids in school when we lose power, but to have emergency shelter to back up to John Winthrop [Middle School],” Glowac said. Lastly, the Centerbrook Meeting House is due for $1.4 million in bonding, half of which will be matched by two state preservation grants, for systems and structural upgrades that will make it more accessible to all users. Considering the financial impact in Essex if the resolution is approved at referendum, the Capital Committee expects a considerably higher debt service compared with paying for projects without bonding. Regarding the mill rate, the committee expects an impact in the next fiscal year of 0.32 mills per $1,000 of assessed property value. For context, the committee finds that, “For a real estate property assessed at $300,000, the annual impact would be $96 or $48 per biannual tax bill.”

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

Forever Freckles Story by Carol Andrecs

Imagine the hardship Freckles endured being kept in the basement of a neighborhood market without food so that he would eat the rats. Thankfully, someone noticed him when he got outside. His face was covered with a black substance, and he appeared to have an eye infection, but Freckles was so hungry he went right into a trap for some actual food. He is a sweet young orange-and-white tabby who is so happy to receive kisses, hugs, and love from the volunteers. He is curious, loves to play, and is a great nap buddy. Will you be the lucky one to welcome Freckles into your home? Come meet him at our open house or apply to adopt him online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org. Find Your Match at Forgotten Felines: Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our

Join the Chester Garden Club The Chester Garden Club invites new members to join in helping to promote the beautification and betterment of the community. Applications for membership are available at the Wheatmarket, the Chester Town Hall, The Essex Savings Bank, and the Chester Library. Completed applications may be given to any Chester Garden Club member or sent to the Chester Garden Club, P.O. Box 623, Chester, CT 06412.

Join the Deep River Garden Club The Deep River Garden Club is looking for new members. The club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Deep River Ambulance Headquarters, 284 West Elm Street. Members do not need to live in Deep River. For more information, contact the Deep River Garden Club at P.O. Box 1166, Deep River, CT 06417, email drgardenclub@gmail.com, or attend the annual New Member Social at the October meeting.

Photo by Tracye Mueller

facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. Call the volunteer line at 860-669-1347 or send an email to volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.

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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS

Strickland Hyde: A Lifetime of Service to Essex Continued from page 2 he says. “So, I told them I would come aboard and feel it out. I ended up enjoying it immensely.” The Essex Foundation provides funding and resources for community needs, including land projects, buildings, equipment, programs, schools, and scholarships for high school students. For Strickland, the work offers another way to support the community he has watched change over a lifetime. “Helping support the organizations in town means a lot to me,” he says. “I think back to when I was a kid and seeing the town then, sure, there was help, but nothing like there is today.” As president, Strickland runs meetings and takes part in presentations and other Foundation activities. The board currently has six members, whom he says share a common purpose. “The foundation members themselves are a group that is very close knit and they have the same goals,” Strickland says. “When we help organizations and other people in town, we try to be fair to everyone.” The Foundation does not generally provide recurring support to the same recipients, allowing it to direct resources to different needs in the community. “We do not support reoccurring things, so if we support one organization or one person, we will choose others the next go around,” Strickland says. Among its longstanding projects is the annual Daffodil program, which places flowers at entrances to the town’s villages. Strickland says the program originated at the request of an Essex resident who was a significant supporter of the Foundation. “One of the gifts of this was the beautification of the Town of Essex which means a lot to us and so we help keep this going,” he says. More recently, the Essex Foundation provided a grant that helped bring an American Sign Language board to the

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playground at Essex Elementary School. The grant went to the school’s parentteacher organization, with the organization and Board of Education determining the board’s placement. “Students and people with hearing disorders are assisted with this signage to support sign language,” Strickland says. When Foundation representatives visited the school for a presentation connected with the new board, Strickland says the response demonstrated what the project meant to the school community. “It is the start of helping those with disabilities,” he says. The Foundation raises money through an annual fund drive, with mailers sent to Essex residents. Requests for assistance must be connected to the town and are considered within the organization’s bylaws. “The mindset of the people on the committee is that we would love to be able to afford to take care of all the problems, but we have bylaws to follow,” Strickland says. “So, people can apply for what they need and we take it from there. It has got to be related to Essex — that is the key part of it.” After 13 years with the Foundation, Strickland is also thinking about who will continue its work in the years ahead. The organization is looking for additional directors as longtime members eventually step away. “As time goes on we will need to step down and others will need to take over,” he says. “To have people join as members would be greatly appreciated.” Anyone interested in becoming involved can inquire through the Essex Foundation website. For Strickland, the Foundation is another chapter in a connection to Essex that began when he was a boy making his way through town on a paper route. “We are known in the community,” he says. “When everything else has failed, we step in and we hope to support people.”

Deep River Community Cupboard Open The Deep River Community Cupboard, located at 56 High St., provides nonperishable food to anyone who needs it, including residents who cannot access the Deep River Food Pantry during its regular hours. The cupboard has no eligibility requirements and no questions are asked. Community members are welcome to take what they need and contribute appropriate nonperishable foods. For more information, call the Deep River Department of Social Services at 860-526-6033.

COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE CHESTER WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORIY ADOPTED 2026-2027 BUDGET Notice is given the Chester Water Pollution Control Authority, on September 15,2026, adopted the fiscal year budget for 2026-2027 in the amount of $127,290 The annual residential usage charge will remain at $750 per equivalent dwelling unit (EDU). The annual mixed use commercial usage charge will remain at $800 per equivalent dwelling unit (EDU). The adopted 2026-2027 budget was filed in the Town Clerk’s office on September 22, 2026. Any appeal of these charges must be filed with the Water Pollution Control Authority within 21 days of October 9, 2026.

Notice of Decision September 15, 2026 – Zoning Board of Appeals The Essex Zoning Board of Appeals conducted its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at the Essex Town Hall. The following Decisions were rendered: Application No. 26-12 on behalf of Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 32 Lot 21, VR District, requesting variances of Sections 40D, 40P, and 40T for installation of a shed within corner visibility and exceedance of total lot coverage from 63% to 68% for addition of walkways and patios. APPROVED Respectfully submitted, W. Timothy Furgueson, Chairman

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 hearings on Tuesday, October 6, 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 #26-8 Text Amendment Application pertaining to PA 25-1, modifications to numerous sections to allow for middle housing and creation of Section 46 describing Middle Housing and the permitting process, creation of a purpose under Section 71 Waterfront Business District and modifications pertaining to parking requirements. Applicant: Essex Planning and Zoning Commission -PZC #26-9 Map Amendment for creation of a Parking Management District (PMD) Applicant: Essex Planning and Zoning Commission -PZC #26-10 Modification to a Special Exception under Section 80 Commercial District of the Essex Zoning Regulations for permission to have outdoor music at 124 Westbrook Road Essex. NOTICE Applicant/Owner Cogent HoldingsLEGAL LLC

Town of Deep River

Special are Town Meeting Thursday, September 2026 6:00pm Copies of the applications on file in the Town Clerk’s Office and Land24th, Use Department at Essex Town Hall and can be viewed on the Town’s webpage. Richard H. Smith Town Hall Essex Planning and Zoning Commission The electors and those persons eligible to vote in town meetings of the Town of Deep River, Connecticut, are hereby warned and Russell Smith, Chairman

notified that a Special Town Meeting will be held at the Richard H. Smith Town Hall, 174 Main Street, Deep River, Connecticut, on Thursday, September 24th, 2026 @6:00pm: 1.To see if the Town will vote to adopt an ordinance entitled “Ordinance Concerning Citations for Violations of Zoning Regulations, establishing civil penalties, a citation procedure and a hearing procedure for specified violations of the Town of Deep River Zoning Regulations, pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 8-12a and 7-152c, effective upon adoption unless otherwise provided therein. Dated at Deep River, CT, this Friday, September 11, 2026 Board of Selectmen: Carol V. Jones

Duane A. Gates

Cynthia Torres

LEGAL NOTICE All persons having taxable personal property to declare such as unregistered motor vehicle(s); farm equipment; any furniture, fixtures and equipment used in the operation of a business, must declare by November 2, 2026. Declarations are available at the Assessor’s Office and on the Town of Essex website www.essexct.gov. The statutory deadline for filing personal property declarations is Monday, November 2, 2026. As per CT General Statute 12-41, any person filing a late or incomplete form or who does not file will incur a 25% penalty. Applications for farm, forest, or open space land will be accepted until October 31, 2026. Forms are available in the Assessor’s Office or on the Town of Essex Website.

Sports

VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • SPORTS

Valley Courier Valley Courier Thursday, September 24, 2026

Valley Regional Football Finds Different Ways to Win

By Serenity J. Bishop Sports Editor

The Valley Regional football team has cruised to a 2-0 start this season, but both victories have showcased the Warriors’ ability to win in different ways. At times, Valley Regional has had to lean on its defense, while at other times the offense has been electric through the air despite some trouble with the running game. Either way, a mark of a good team is finding ways to win, whether it’s winning ugly, in a dogfight, or in a blowout. In Week 1, Valley Regional defeated the Hartford co-op of Weaver, Hartford Public, and Classical 27-6. The Warriors followed that victory by defeating the Wilcox and Kaynor co-op 28-14. Valley Regional coach Phil Cohen said he’s been pleased with the team’s overall chemistry and its ability to play as one unit early in the season. He credited defensive coordinator John Pereira for having the defense ready to play and sophomore quarterback Maxwell White for developing chemistry with his receivers throughout the offseason. “The team chemistry right now has really been clicking. Specifically starting with offense, I really like how Max has worked tirelessly with the receivers and the running backs and the skill position players this offseason. You could tell a lot of those guys are really on the same page right now,” Cohen said. “It’s just been nice to see it develop from their offseason work to practice and then on the field.” Cohen added that defensively, Pereira has continuously put the players in the right spots to make plays. He said his assistant coaches have made the players’ lives easier by allowing them to be in the right position, which lets them play freely. “We were really excited about the defense coming into the year to start because we had, we had a lot more returning players on defense, especially on the back end of our defense. It made a big impact,” Cohen added. “John does a really good job of knowing when to send some pressure or really when to dial it back. We had a lot of younger guys step up this week with two defensive backs out, so they did a really good job as well.” Offensively, Valley Regional has shown a balanced attack by targeting its opponents’ weaknesses. If an opponent has a weaker secondary, as in Week 1, the game

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Valley Courier

Valley Regional takes on the Hartford co-op during its 27-6 season-opening victory. The Warriors followed with a 28-14 win over the Wilcox and Kaynor co-op to improve to 2-0.

plan is to air it out, but if a team can’t stop the run, as in Week 2, the Warriors have no problem shifting gears to the rushing attack. In Week 2, the team had to rely on its rushing attack even more after illness and injuries sidelined some of its perimeter players. “I do feel like our passing attack complements our run game and vice versa. We don’t want to be one-dimensional because

we feel like when both things are clicking, we can really be successful,” Cohen said. “Just keeping the defense on their toes.” Next, Valley Regional will face Capital Prep-Achievement First co-op Saturday, Sept. 26, at noon. Capital Prep enters the game 0-2 but will be looking for its first win of the season. Cohen said the co-op brings size and strength along the offensive and defensive lines, which will be a focal point of the game.

“Capital Prep definitely possesses a lot of challenges. They definitely have some athletes, and they’re big and strong up front. We definitely need to make sure that we’re on top of things and not giving up any big plays,” he said. “Just keep things in front of us, and when we get the opportunity on offense, we continue to have long drives and keep the defense off the field.”

SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Photo courtesy of Deb Batt

The Valley Regional boys soccer team improved to 3-0-1 after going 1-0-1 in Week 2.

Valley Regional Teams Off to Strong Starts By Serenity J. Bishop Sports Editor

Valley Regional’s fall sports teams have made their presence felt through the first two weeks of the season, with several teams putting together winning records and strong stretches of play. The boys soccer team has started the season unbeaten, improving to 3-0-1 after adding a win and a tie to its 2-0 start. Valley Regional earned a 2-0 victory over Coginchaug on Sept. 15, with both goals coming in the second half. Varrick Recchia opened the scoring off an assist from Beni Cardoso before Brennen Wilcox added a second goal, assisted by Recchia. Paul Malaguti made four saves to record the shutout. The Warriors then battled Morgan to a 1-1 draw on Sept. 18. Valley Regional will face Cromwell, Portland, Old Say-

brook, Branford, and North Branford in its next five matches. Girls soccer opened the season with back-to-back shutout victories, defeating Hale Ray 3-0 and Westbrook 4-0, but has struggled to generate offense over its last three games. The Warriors have been shut out in losses to Rocky Hill 4-0, Coginchaug 5-0, and Morgan 4-0 and enter the next stretch of the schedule at 2-3. Valley Regional will look to get its offense back on track against Manchester, Portland, Old Saybrook, North Branford, and Cromwell. Field hockey has also put together a winning start, improving to 3-1 after bouncing back from a 4-0 season-opening loss to North Branford with three consecutive victories. The Warriors defeated NFA 2-0, followed by a 6-1 win over the Wild Knights and a 3-1 victory over Old Saybrook. The next five games will

provide another test, with Valley Regional set to face Somers, Morgan, Haddam-Killingworth, North Branford, and the Wild Knights in a rematch. Volleyball has started 2-1, opening the season with a 3-1 victory over Coginchaug and following with a 3-0 sweep of LymeOld Lyme. The Warriors suffered their first loss against Hale Ray, falling in three sets. Valley Regional will next face East Hampton, Haddam-Killingworth, Morgan, and Cromwell. Valley Regional football opened the season with a 27-6 win over the Hartford co-op, getting three touchdown passes from quarterback Max White. White finished 6-for-13 for 120 yards, connecting twice with Charlie Zapatka for touchdowns of 33 and 6 yards and once with Kevork Shegirian for a 19-yard score. Zapatka finished with four catches for 53 yards, while Char-

lie Zelek led the defense with 13 tackles, a sack, and two tackles for loss. Mitchell Bowe added an interception return for a touchdown as the Warriors held the Hartford co-op scoreless until the fourth quarter. Valley Regional followed with a 28-14 victory over the Wilcox/Kaynor Tech co-op to move to 2-0. Pat Lynch sparked the offense with an 81-yard touchdown run and later connected with Sam Zelek on a 31-yard touchdown pass. Lynch finished

HIGH

Tides ESSEX

Sept. 24 to Sept. 30

with 84 rushing yards on three carries, while Alex Krol added 69 yards and a touchdown on eight carries, and Charlie Zelek rushed for 53 yards and a 46-yard touchdown on four carries. Sam Zelek caught six passes for 85 yards and a touchdown while also going 4-for-4 on extra points. Defensively, Lynch recorded 12 tackles, while Charlie Zelek had seven tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. Paul Kuhn added an interception. Day 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A.M. 10:10 10:47 11:24 12:16 12:58 1:44

P.M. 10:23 11:00 11:37 12:00 12:38 1:20 2:09

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Window Cleaning • Power Washing Painting • Gutter Cleaning Solar Panel Cleaning Dryer Vent Cleaning Detailing • Home Repairs

HIC #0634550

House Sites, Septic Systems, Demolition

No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large

Water Mains, Sewers

Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters

203-421-5388

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

756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT

www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665

203-466-0520

GUTTER SERVICES

www.callateam.com Madison, CT

HIRE A VETERAN

LANDSCAPING

IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

CHAMPLIN’S LANDSCAPING & EXCAVATION

203-530-7191

SEAMLESS GUTTERS PLUS

Located in Old Saybrook

Gutter Installation • Gutter Guards Gutter Cleaning • Maintenance Program abguttersplus.com We do half-round, seamless gutters

Joe Scala

Fully Insured | HIC. 061885 References upon request

LANDSCAPING

COUNTRY HILL LANDSCAPING Eric Werle • Guilford, CT 06437

www.waterworksirrigations.com

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

203-457-0483

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

• 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 • Gravel Driveways • Snow Plowing YPH: 104940 Sprinklers Garden & Lawn, Inst YPH: 104940 YPSH: FULLY Sprinklers Garden & Lawn, Inst INSURED 860-510-3509 Rep: 14521 - rd1979 YPSH:

Tree Work Snow Plowing PlantingAdId: S 3200005796409 - 01 Tractor WorkCustId: 3317909816 PruningDir/Iss: SHLCT YP1 06/2018

www.waterworksirrigations.com

AdId: S 3200005796409 - 01

DQC - CIP CustId: 3317909816 SERVICING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1988UDAC: ATTUID: vignet01 Dir/Iss: SHLCT YP1 06/2018 Date: 04/27/2018 02:13:PM

LANDSCAPING

NOW SERVICING THE SHORELINE AREA FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE Residential

Commercial

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

Fully licensed HIC #0561037 & Insured

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

DOW ROBERT

YPH: 104940 Sprinklers Garden & Lawn, Inst YPSH: Rep: 14521 - rd1979 DOW ROBERT

Rep: 14521 - rd1979 DOW ROBERT

LANDSCAPE SERVICES LLC

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!

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

203-481-2436

perfectturflandscapeservices.com www.perfectturfservices.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

VALLEY COURIER • CLASSIFIEDS • 17

LANDSCAPING

Lic. # 0653900

203.727.6405

rml.landscaping24@gmail.com

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

• Landscaping • Painting • Mowing • Trimming • Masonry Service • Mulching • Gutter Cleaning • Powerwashing • Small Tree Removal • Fall & Spring Clean-Ups

residential

The CT handyman LandsCaping LLC

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

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

CT HIC#06060162 CT Lic# P1-0204385

Licensed & Insured

FERT #B2547

MASONRY OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP

SOSOLI’S M AS O N RY, L LC

MOVING & HAULING

Over 30 years experience Specializing In:

203. 469.6670

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

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

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

Cell (203) 598-2524 www.greatmason.com PAINTING

Gold Star Painting Specialists Connecticut Shoreline

Dominic Bosco

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

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

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

Accept Major Credit Cards

“No Job Too Small”

Will do Dump Runs also. Call Luke at

203-464-0444

*Free Estimates*

PAINTING

Quality Work Since 1987

M.A. PAINTING

MARTIN ARDOLINO CTHIC#0638601

Commercial & Residential

Interior/Exterior Painting • Power Washing - Staining • Parking Lot Striping

HIC.0571018 Fully Insured Free Estimates

Free Estimate/Fully Insured/Licensed CT HIC.0578520

Interior/Exterior • Minor Carpentry Popcorn Ceiling Removal Wallpaper Removal

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

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www.RogerCramptonLLC.com

CTCTliclic# #P1-204812 P1-204812

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Insured, CT Lic # P1- 0203471

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• Window Cleaning

• www.whitegloveservicesct.com

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Fully insured

• Fully Insured • Licensed

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

www.RogerCramptonLLC.com

CT lic # P1-2048122V_70 9718 D

•Seamless Leaders Repairs • Skylights • Slate Repairs ••Flat Roofs •Gutters • Repairs ••Seamless • Skylights Leaders Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates SlateInsured Repairs• Licensed •Gutters Repairs INC. ••Fully • Skylights • Free Estimates www.russoroofing.com Residential • Commercial (203) 562-8077 • Slate www.russoroofing.com (203) 624-ROOF Repairs CT Reg No. 00509027 CT Reg No. 00509027

CT Reg No. 00509027

NEED SOMETHING MOVED?

D. Masonry & Restoration

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

HIC.0618942

. 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

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!

Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans

www.RogerCramptonLLC.com

CT lic # P1-204812

D817907_V2218402-1P # cil TC

CT lic # P1-204812

D817907_V2

RESTORATION,LLC

ROOFING

derusni ylluF

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

SERVICE DIRECTORY

18 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

ROOFING

ROOFS WASHED Moss, Algae, Black Stains

SKYWAY

Roofing Specialists 24-Hour Emergency Service Available

Free Estimates All Work Guaranteed

860-526-2127 SHINGLE

SLATE

SPANISH TILE

Call Scott’s Gutters 203-466-0520 HIRE A VETERAN

FINANCING Roofing / Siding / Gutters / Skylights / Windows / Doors AVAILABLE 0% Interest 1000’S OF SATISFIED HOMEOWNERS! 18 Months Have your project done the RIGHT way, 60 Months Low Interest with SKYWAY.

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PROTECTING YOUR HOME. ENHANCING YOUR INVESTMENT

HIC #0634550

ROOFINGProfessionals

FATHER & SONS OWNED & OPERATED

EXPERT ROOFING IN EVERY STYLE FLAT

Residential

Restoration LLC

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

Licensed & Insured Lic. #0573204

COVONERESTORATION.COM

Senior & Veteran Discounts

TREE SERVICES

YOUR ROOFING AND SIDING EXPERTS

ROOFING SIDING GUTTERS WINDOWS

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860.381.9336 christopherimprovement.com TREE SERVICES

Licensed

Insured

203-483-7314

TOP NOTCH TREE, LLC • Full Service Tree Removal • Land/Lots Cleared • Brush Piles Chipped • 60’ Aerial Truck/Climbers • Stump Grinding OWNER ON EVERY JOB

860-552-9376

We Make Tree Work Affordable

WATERPROOFING

Fun By The Numbers

LANDSCAPE & TREE SERVICE 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

BrianMiller Miller Brian

Brian Miller Over20 20Years YearsExperience Experience Over R RTT&& Over 28 YearsClinton, Experience Clinton,CT CT TREE Clinton, CT REE R REMOVAL EMOVALL.L.C L.L.C Brian Miller

Over 20 Years Experience Clinton, CT

L.L.C Free Estimates - Fully Insured TREE REMOVAL L.L.C Affordable and Professional Tree Services

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Affordable and Professional Tree Services Competitive Prices - Credit Cards Affordable and Professional TreeAccepted Services 203-731-7710 • 1-877-669-1535 Same day call•back. We accept•credit cards. Tree Removal Chipping Storm Cleanup ••Stump Grinding Tree Removal •Removal Chipping • Storm Cleanup Stump Grinding www.rttreeremoval.com • brian@rttreeremoval.com Tree • Storm Cleanup • Stump Grinding Shrub Trimming • Emergency Response • Line Clearance Certified Free Estimates - Fully Insured - Competitive Prices

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SUDOKU

HOME IMPROVEMENT LLC.

Rob’s TRee Removal

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SUDOKU

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Over 31 years experience

Lic & Ins. FREE Est.

860-639-7935

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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

My Whirlwind Trip to Scotland Golf and Sticky Toffee Pudding By Liz Egan Special to Living

Recently, my brother Paul called and asked me to join him on a long weekend golfing at St. Andrews in Scotland. After hearing his story of the planned trip, I enthusiastically accepted, effusively thanking him for his generous offer. During the course of our extended phone conversation, I booked my flights. Guided by my brother, I immediately found my passport and went online to have the SHERPA UK visa linked to it. Uploading it to my airline dashboard meant an easier time at customs at Edinburgh Airport, our destination. The captivating town of St. Andrews is one rich in history and heritage. History can be found in every corner of town and evidenced in the architecture and landmarks. The earliest recorded history of St. Andrews dates back to the sixth century, when St. Regulus introduced Christianity to the town. The town became the ecclesial capital of Scotland and was renamed St. Andrews after Andrew the Apostle. What do you think of when you think of St. Andrews, Scotland? Why, golf, of course! In sporting history, St. Andrews is renowned as the birthplace of golf, with the modern game established in the early 1400s. St. Andrews is home to the oldest golf courses in the world, including The Old Course, with play starting in the 1500s. In 1754, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club was founded, a private membersonly golf club that, until 2004, was the governing authority of golf. A retired marketing executive, Paul had already prearranged our transfer by car to the historic Rusacks Hotel. Occupying an iconic 1800s building, the hotel overlooks the 18th green of The Old Course at St. Andrews. A chance meeting in the lobby yielded a serendipitous tee time for my brother at The New Course with three gentlemen from the States. Designed by Old Tom Morris, the “new” course was built in 1895 and is one of seven courses at St. Andrews Links. While waiting to go our separate ways for the afternoon, we walked past the Royal and Ancient Club to the Pavilion to enter the Singles Lottery for the next day. The Old Course operates on a ballot system for nonmembers. The two-day ballot can be entered 48 hours in advance with limited tee times. With individual singles entry, the chance that we would play together was unlikely. We would find the results later that evening. After he

Photo by Liz Egan

Ancient churches and historic architecture are part of the landscape of St. Andrews, Scotland.

Sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and clotted cream at Rusacks Hotel inspired the accompanying recipe.

Liz Egan’s brother, Paul, stands in front of the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral during their visit to Scotland.

departed, I spent my afternoon relaxing and healing my aching shoulders during a visit to The Spa at The Old Course Hotel. With a low score in the lottery, I was able to play The Old Course the next afternoon. I had an amazing young caddie, Theo, who reminded me of my husband Paul. He was a 17-year-old senior in high school and, like my husband, had been caddying the St. Andrews Links courses during summers and on school-year weekends since he was 13 years old. Like my husband, Theo golfed 18 holes every day after his multiple caddying rounds. He was a gentle, kind soul whose advice was given without judgment. It made a huge difference for me. Tired, my poor form and lack of 18-hole seasoning got the better of me. The views along the course were fabulous. Thankfully, Theo was gracious about not counting my mulligans, and my final score was near what I hoped. That evening, we had dinner at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, 18, with views of the course and the countryside in an elegant setting with a five-star menu. Known for its dry-aged Angus steaks — we could see many ranches and farms dotted with cattle from our drive from Edinburgh to St. Andrews — the ribeye I ordered was perfectly seasoned and cooked. The locally raised green leaf salad was dressed with a delicate sweet onion vinaigrette. I had a traditional British sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and clotted cream for dessert. By far the best dessert I have ever eaten!

My brother Paul had videotaped me on the first two holes of The Old Course going out and the last three coming in. We watched the videos before bed. My brother made commentary and suggested corrections. As hard as it was to hear, it helped me the next day during our prearranged play at Kingsbarns, a gorgeous coastal course that is part of the seven courses known as St. Andrews Links. At Kingsbarns, Paul had arranged for me to be paired with my prior day’s caddie, Theo. The course has the most spectacular landscape views that I have ever seen. While they are burned into my memory, I wish I had taken more photos to reference the necessary paintings I will do. The course was challenging with undulations, speedy greens, and many, many pot bunkers. When I listened to my caddie Theo, I did well, and when I didn’t, well, disaster. In the end, my score, while improved, was lowered by half a dozen strokes. Who cares about the score? It was an amazing experience, and Theo and I had a pleasant walk. After an early dinner at the course, we were able to quickly explore the old town as the sun set. The purpose of the trip for my brother Paul was to play The Old Course, so he rescheduled his flight to New York in the hopes of expanding his chances. Our lottery standing notice revealed that Paul had number 19, and I had number 36. He was more than optimistic about his chances to play. I had already played the best golf course in the

world, so I removed my name from the list. My brother Paul chose to be available at the Pavilion, watching players tee off with the hopes of getting to play before the day ended. Popping into the local shops, I saw an amazing scarlet tweed wool coat in the window of what I would come to know as the famous Johnstons of Elgin, a historic clothier of Scotland, opened in 1797. It is hard to imagine that one could be elevated by the experience of trying on a coat, but I absolutely was. The level of fit was a cozy, warm hug as well as an expression of the person I know myself to be. When inquiring about the price, I gasped. Pacing the store with the coat on, I heard a voice in my head whisper quietly, “You should have it, it will be with you for the rest of your life.” It reminded me of the ways my husband Paul cared for me, encouraging me to want and enjoy good things. I am grateful I purchased the coat, which was wrapped ever so carefully and later delivered to the hotel. I went on to explore the town of St. Andrews and the University of St. Andrews. The university is the third oldest in the world after Oxford and Cambridge (1441 A.D.). Lots of parents as well as students were in town for the start of the new year. How grateful I am to have this experience. I walked about the town all day, reading placards, exploring shops, and learning about this amazing place. See My Whirlwind Trip page 20

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Calendar for the Week of September 24, 2026

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

THURSDAY, SEPT. 24 Access Health CT: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Trained enrollment specialists will answer questions about health and dental insurance options and assist with enrollment. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-6692342 or visit hchlibrary.org. Understanding Connecticut’s Adult Family Caregiver Program: 1 to 3 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Julie Cruz, RN, CSA, discusses Connecticut’s Adult Family Caregiver Program, including eligibility requirements, available services and resources for family members caring for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit nbranfordlibraries.org.

ers. Registration requested. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org. Diamond Art: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Route 81, Killingworth. Children in grades 3 and up can create an animal-themed diamond art project using styluses and gems. Registration required; supplies are limited and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000. Opening Reception for the Elected Members Exhibition: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Features an exhibition of works by more than 30 artists. The exhibit runs through Nov. 12. Free and open to the public. For info, email casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org. All About Artists: Judith Scott: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. For ages 6 to 12. Participants will learn about artist Judith Scott and create a weaving craft. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Teen Crafternoon: Journal Stickers: 3 p.m. Henry Carter Evening of Guitar at the Blackstone: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. ParticiBlackstone Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features perpants will design and make stickers for journals or plann- formances, discussions and instruction exploring the

connections between classical music and guitar. Led by local guitarist and teacher Neal Fitzpatrick. Free. Registration required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org. Trusts: Everything You Wanted to Know but Didn’t Know to Ask: 6:30 p.m. Virtual. Estate planning and elder law attorney Erin Duques discusses trusts and whether a trust may be suitable as part of an estate plan. Registration is required. For info or to register, contact 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Stony Creek Forum: Author Event: 7 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Award-winning author Gish Jen discusses Bad Bad Girl. In person. For info or to register, call 203-488-8702. Where the Paletero Man Goes: A Journey of Neighborhood, Music, and Art with Lucky Diaz: 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Spanish-language presentation at 8 p.m. Features a conversation with musician and author Lucky Diaz about his bilingual picture book, Paletero Man. Registration is required. Presented online by The Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. See page 22

My Whirlwind Trip to Scotland Continued from page 19 St. Andrews is home to many, many charity shops, secondhand stores, each supporting a different charity. Back home in Connecticut, I love shopping at the local Goodwill, finding the unexpected. For me, these shops were a fruitful adventure at a modest price. In addition to a conveniently purchased raincoat, I was able to find small gifts to bring home to my neighbor buddies who were caring for my house, as well as special Christmas gifts of old books. The length of this travelogue has allowed me to revisit with gratitude the joys of an amazing adventure. Adventures are the memories we keep for a lifetime. Being present enough to experience each moment is the process of a life well-lived. I am deeply grateful for my brother Paul’s generosity and my willingness to enjoy new adventures without my darling husband Paul. Who knows what adventures I will have in the future? It is more important to be filled with grace and gratitude for my life and all the blessings that I have, where my feet are, in the present. b

Old-Fashioned Sticky Toffee Pudding This classic British dessert blends moist cake with a rich, buttery toffee sauce. The 18 restaurant atop Rusacks Hotel served this dessert warm with clotted cream, but it

can also be served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. A splash of brandy is often added to the toffee sauce; here, it is omitted. Ingredients and Directions 8 ounces dates, pitted and roughly chopped (not date paste) 1 cup water 1 teaspoon baking soda Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8-inch square pan and line with parchment paper. Use ramekins for individual servings. Boil water. Combine dates and boiling water in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes. Stir in baking soda. 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt Combine in a separate bowl. Set aside. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Stir in vanilla. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the date mixture. (Several recipes recommend pureeing first.)

Pour batter into prepared dish or dishes. Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Do not overbake. Toffee Sauce I am using the words butterscotch sauce here interchangeably. This is a creamy caramel sauce. Do not let the sauce boil hard or sit too long on the stove. It can become thick and will not sink into holes in the pudding but rather sit on top. For an extra-sticky pudding, double the toffee sauce recipe. You won’t regret it! 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 cup packed light brown sugar 3/4 cup heavy cream 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cream. Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract. Once the pudding is baked, pierce it all over with a skewer and pour half of the toffee sauce over the top. Return to the oven for 5 minutes to soak up the sauce. Serve warm with remaining sauce drizzled over the top. Notes: Beating the flour too long makes the batter tight and elastic. It won’t rise as well and comes out rubbery instead of light and tender. When adding the baking soda to the dates, it will fizz up, so be prepared. This is an important step. It helps the fruit break down more.

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

With the Kinks Ironed Out, Legacy’s The Odd Couple Will Provide Lots of Laughs By Karen Isaacs Special to Living

Legacy Theatre is presenting an enjoyable, if not perfect, production of The Odd Couple, the Neil Simon comedy, through Sunday, Oct. 4. Some of the elements that did not quite work on opening night will have been fixed by now as director Eric Santagata and the cast settle into their roles. The company had only two performances before audiences prior to my seeing the show; the pace of the show dragged, and lines that should have been sure laugh-getters did not land. While the comedy — which was a major hit for Simon on the stage, screen, and television — still has its moments, it also shows its age. After all, the stage production opened in 1965 starring Art Carney and Walter Matthau, followed by the film in 1968 (Jack Lemmon and Matthau) and the TV series (1970-75) with Tony Randall and Jack Klugman. Plus, there have been an updated version and one with two women playing the leads. The classic comedy about two people with very different habits sharing a household is universal. In this case, the two men, Felix and Oscar, are both divorced. Oscar is a slob, while Felix (who has just been kicked out by his wife) is fastidious, anxious, and compulsive. Though it may seem reasonable that Oscar (the slob) would invite Felix, still an emotional wreck over the pending divorce, to stay in his large apartment, it is a recipe for disaster. It proves the old saying that you can’t really know someone until you live with them. For though Oscar is aware of some of Felix’s quirks, it isn’t until he is confronted with them 24/7 that they can become maddening. Erik Bloomquist, the one Equity performer in the cast, plays Felix Unger — a man with enough compulsions and idiosyncrasies for 10 people. He is a germophobe, a hypochondriac, compulsively neat, and prone to making weird sounds at night trying to clear his sinuses, his ears, and his throat. Plus, he pouts, cries, and feels sorry for himself. He is a master at making people feel guilty for being annoyed with him. He is also in the early stages of grief and anger that his wife told him to leave. It’s obvious that his idiosyncrasies have finally become too much for her. Bloomquist does a good job with the role, though occasionally his characterization becomes overly fussy. It can verge on a

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

A poker game brings together, from left, Vinnie (Dominic Paolillo), Speed (Stephen Depasque), Roy (Max Evans), Felix (Erik Bloomquist, seated), Murray (Neil Fuentes), and Oscar (Ben Pitts) in Legacy Theatre’s production of The Odd Couple.

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

The Pigeon sisters, played by Penny Amara, left, and Desi Amato, make an appearance in Legacy Theatre’s production of The Odd Couple.

stereotype. Yet, he does invoke some sympathy for the character’s distress over the pending divorce. It is just that his annoying habits cause you to want to strangle him. As Oscar Madison, Ben Pitts needs to be

more of a slob both in his personal appearance and his apartment. His relative youth detracts from the character’s grumpiness. Rather than appearing kind, he at times just appears weak. Oscar Madison is a successful and experienced

sportswriter for a major New York paper; Pitts just doesn’t project that. The play opens in Oscar’s apartment with a group of friends playing poker, a weekly occurrence. They wonder and worry why Felix isn’t there, but they also complain about each other: Murray the cop deals too slowly, Vinnie repeats too often that he must leave by midnight, and Speed is annoyed that the game isn’t going faster. The scene needed to be brisker. Then Felix shows up, and poker is the last thing on their minds. Did Felix try to kill himself? Has he taken pills? The scene ends with Oscar telling Felix he can stay in the apartment. By the next card game, Oscar’s apartment has been transformed — it has curtains and coasters, which Felix keeps reminding the men to use. They also have gourmet snacks that detract from playing poker. This production does not showcase why the play is often considered one of Simon’s best. Artistic director Eric Santagata has cast mostly younger performers in the show; this is problematic since the characters seem to be older — both Felix and Oscar had been married for a decade or more and had children; they are well established in their careers. The guys who play in the weekly poker game are similar. The remainder of the play builds on Oscar’s growing irritation with Felix, who has taken over the house and insists that things be done his way. At times, the dialogue sounds like that of a bickering husband and wife. A highlight of the second act is the arrival of the Pigeon sisters, two ditzy British single girls who live upstairs. Oscar convinces Felix to have a double date; of course, Felix messes it up as his tears change the atmosphere from possibly sexy to absolutely funereal. When Oscar finally tells him to leave, the Pigeon sisters invite him to live with them. Desi Amato and Penny Amara play into the stereotype of the 1960s British “birds,” as girls were sometimes referred to. Their high-pitched voices, passable accents, and frequent laughs can become annoying; Simon knows to keep their appearances relatively brief. The scenic design by Jamie Burnett is effective, as are the props. Costume designer Jimmy Johansmeyer has outdone himself with the outfits for the Pigeon sisters. This is an enjoyable and funny production. Tickets are available at LegacyTheatreCT.org.

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

Photo courtesy of Essex Historical Society

Artisan broom-maker Brenda Vynalek demonstrates her craft at Pratt House. Vynalek will lead an all-day workshop on traditional hand-tied broom-making Nov. 1.

Essex Historical Society Director Melissa Josefiak leads a walking tour through River View Cemetery. EHS will offer three evening cemetery tours in October.

EHS Plans a ‘Spooky Season’ of Fall Events Press Release from Essex Historical Society

As fall settles into Centerbrook, Essex, and Ivoryton, Essex Historical Society (EHS) is welcoming cooler temperatures with twilight cemetery walking tours, public art, and a broom-making workshop. Art on the Pratt House Lawn continues through November at the historic Pratt House. The current installations feature Cameron Clark Taylor’s Dyson Sphere on the back patio and Rob Bunting’s Crane on the side lawn. In October and November, featured artist Peter Kirkiles will exhibit five pieces around the property. Visitors are welcome to view the art, take photos, and explore the Pratt House

grounds. Visitors are asked not to climb on the installations. EHS will offer evening walking tours at River View Cemetery in October. The walks cover approximately half a mile over sloped, grassy, and uneven terrain, and audio devices are provided for registered participants. Essex and the Revolution will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The guided tour, presented in conjunction with America 250, will highlight Revolutionary-era stories and people from and relating to Essex. The Twilight Tour of River View Cemetery will be offered Saturday, Oct. 17, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Oct. 30, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The guided walks through the

Continued from page 20

FRIDAY, SEPT. 25 Christ Episcopal Church Tag Sale Preview: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Christ Episcopal Church, 11 Park St., Guilford. Early sale preview and reception for the church’s annual tag sale. Admission: $10, including wine and cheese and three raffle tickets. Sale features furniture, clothing, artwork, decorative items, toys, household wares, jewelry, antiques, and more. Proceeds benefit Christ Church. For info, call 203-453-2279. History Happy Hour: 6 p.m. Allis-Bushnell House Museum, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features Charlie Shafer discussing the Mary Stannard and Collier murder cases from the 1800s. The program previews stories that

cemetery’s oldest sections will explore local stories spanning three centuries of Essex and Connecticut River history. House of the Triple Moon is again partnering with EHS for its Spooky Season programming and will host late-night shopping and refreshments following the cemetery walks at its shop on North Main Street. EHS will also hold an all-day broommaking workshop with Brenda Vynalek from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, at Pratt House. Participants will learn traditional techniques for constructing handtied brooms and will leave the workshop with three different sizes of custom-made brooms. Registration is required, and space is limited.

will be featured during guided Madison Land Trust hikes in October. Suggested donation: $15 general admission, $10 for Madison Historical Society members. Advance registration requested. For info or to register, call 203245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org. Bounding Beyond Boundaries: Building Community at Any Age: 6 p.m. The Congregational Church in Killingworth, 273 Rte. 81. Emma Dufresne of Women & Family Life Center presents a program exploring ways to build meaningful connections and community at every stage of life. Free. For info, call 860-663-1789, email office@killingworthchurch.org, or visit killingworthchurch.org.

To register, view pricing, or learn more about the walks and programs, visit essexhistory.org. Essex Historical Society is a nonprofit organization serving Centerbrook, Essex, and Ivoryton. In addition to programming in all three villages, EHS operates Hills Academy, which houses its offices, library, and collections storage, and offers free guided tours of the Pratt House. The organization works with more than 30 programming partners annually on educational programs, walking tours, speaker series, group tours, community events, research projects, and public history publications.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 25 THROUGH SUNDAY, SEPT. 27 Friends of the Guilford Free Library 45th Annual Fall Book and Bake Sale: Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features used books, puzzles, paper ephemera, CDs, DVDs and vinyl. Bake sale Saturday while supplies last. Live entertainment includes The Ukuladies Friday at 1 p.m., Mimi Dudley Saturday at 10 a.m. and The Skunk Misery Ramblers Saturday at 1 p.m. Sunday, everything is half price. Proceeds support the library. For info, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. See page 23

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Remember You Must Live Explores Life, Loss, and Impermanence Press Release from Guilford Art Center

Guilford Art Center will present Remember You Must Live: On Life, Loss, and Impermanence, a group exhibition exploring mortality, transition, and the preciousness of life, from Oct. 9 through 30. A free opening reception will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10. Grounded in the centuries-old concept of memento mori, which translates to “remember that you die,” Remember You Must Live turns an awareness of mortality into an invitation to embrace the preciousness of life. Rather than focusing on fear, darkness, or spectacle, the exhibition encourages reflection on cycles, transitions, and presence. The exhibition brings together work by artists from Connecticut and throughout New England, offering a range of perspectives and artistic approaches to themes of life, loss, change, and impermanence. Through a variety of media and creative practices, exhibiting artists consider what we leave behind, what we carry forward, and what makes life meaningful precisely because it does not last forever. “Remember You Must Live is ultimately less about death than it is about paying attention to life,” says Maureen Belden, Guilford Art Center executive director. “The exhibition asks us to pause and conPhoto courtesy of Guilford Art Center sider the beauty and complexity of being alive. It encourages us to recognize how an Paulina Ganych’s Memento Mori, egg tempera on clayboard, is featured in Guilford Art Center’s Remember You Must Live: On Life, Loss, and Impermanence.

Continued from page 22

SATURDAY, SEPT. 26 Christ Episcopal Church Annual Tag Sale: 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Christ Episcopal Church, 11 Park St., Guilford. Furniture, clothing, artwork, decorative items, toys, household wares, jewelry, antiques, and more. Free admission. Proceeds benefit Christ Church. For info, call 203-4532279. Priscilla Otte Preserve Bioblitz: 9 a.m. Priscilla Otte Preserve, Guilford. iNaturalist Ambassador Abby Sesselberg and Guilford Land Conservation Trust Director Steve Mayo lead an approximately two-hour search for plants and animals. Suitable for families. Participants are encouraged to create an iNaturalist account and download the app beforehand. Meet at the parking area at 479-499 Saw Mill Hill Rd. For info, text 203-772-9842. Artisan & Antique Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Madison Green, 8 Meeting House Lane, Madison. The festival features artisan and antique vendors, live music, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch with decorating supplies. Free and open to the public. Hosted by the Madison Chamber of Commerce. For info, visit madisonct.com.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s: 9 a.m. event opens; 10 a.m. ceremony; 10:30 a.m. two-mile walk. Ocean Beach Park, 98 Neptune Ave., New London. Features a walk to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease care, support, and research. Participants can join the Old Saybrook Rotary Club team, captained by Martha Rothchild. For info or to join the Old Saybrook Rotary Club team, visit osrotary.org or act.alz.org. Shredding Event: 9 a.m. to noon. Old Saybrook High School parking lot, 1111 Boston Post Rd. Features on-site shredding of sensitive documents. Cost: $10 per box, based on banker’s box or copy paper box size. No appointment necessary. Held rain or shine. Proceeds support Rotary Club community service activities in Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and Old Lyme. For info, call John Aforismo at 860-794-5009.

awareness of impermanence can deepen our appreciation of the present.” “I think that focusing on death through a fearful lens robs us of the gift that is being alive,” says Ashley Seneco, GAC education coordinator. “Remember You Must Live reminds us that although our time is finite, we have opportunities to seek kindness and connection while we are here.” The title, Remember You Must Live, intentionally shifts the traditional memento mori message from a reminder of death to an invitation to embrace life. The works on view encourage viewers to contemplate personal and universal experiences of change, aging, grief, memory, renewal, and transformation. Remember You Must Live: On Life, Loss, and Impermanence will be on view at Guilford Art Center Gallery, 411 Church St., Guilford. The exhibition is free and open to the public during the center’s regular hours. For more information about the exhibition, gallery hours, and upcoming programs, visit guilfordartcenter.org. Guilford Art Center is a nonprofit arts organization that promotes and teaches the arts through exhibitions, classes, events, and opportunities for artists and the community. The center presents contemporary craft and art exhibitions and provides opportunities for people of all ages and experience levels to learn, create, and engage with the arts.

Bees & Birds & Butterflies Oh My: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Samuel Smith Farmstead, 82 Plants Dam Road, East Lyme. Free event featuring activities and information about birds, bees, butterflies, pollinators and coastal conservation. Includes a 1 p.m. presentation by Dr. Jamie Vaudrey of the Niantic River Watershed Committee on local water quality and coastal ecosystems. Activities include an observation hive, bird and pollinator activities, garden tours and a coastal conservation model. Donations benefit repairs to the historic house and barn. For info, call Lu Huntington at 860-961-9296 or visit SamuelSmithFarmstead.org.

Become a Green Super Hero!: 10:30 a.m. Ivoryton Library, 106 Main St., Ivoryton. Hands-on workshop with environmental educator Karen Evans of Sustainable Essex focusing on reducing, reusing, recycling and rethinking. For ages 8 and older. Registration encourBecome a Green Super Hero!: 9:30 a.m. Ivoryton Library, aged but not required. For info, email sust106 Main St., Ivoryton. Hands-on workshop with environ- sxct@gmail.com. mental educator Karen Evans of Sustainable Essex focusing on reducing, reusing, recycling and rethinking. For ages 4 to 8. Registration encouraged but not required. For info, email sustsxct@gmail.com. See page 24

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

Millionaires’ Unit Took Yale Students From Privilege to the Skies Press Release from New Haven Museum

A pioneering aviation squadron formed by Yale University students in 1916, the First Yale Unit became known as the Millionaires’ Unit. The aviators came from the height of privilege but were driven by the belief that their membership in the American elite required personal sacrifice. Historian Marc Wortman will share the unit’s rarely heard history and its relevance today during The Millionaires’ Unit: Yale and New Haven’s Aviation Pioneers at the New Haven Museum on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 6 p.m. A reception will precede the program at 5:30 p.m. The event is free with regular museum admission. Drawing on his book, The Millionaires’ Unit: The Aristocratic Flyboys Who Fought the Great War and Invented American Air Power, and using historical and rare images, Wortman will demonstrate how the Millionaires’ Unit, on its own initiative, became the first Navy air reserve squadron and the nucleus of the 40,000-member U.S. Navy Air Service during World War I. Among the Millionaires’ Unit ranks were a Rockefeller, a Taft, and the sons of the heads of J.P. Morgan and the Union Pacific. “They had everything to live for yet were determined to be the first into the conflict during the First World War,” Wortman says. Among their numbers were

America’s only naval air ace, the first uniformed American killed in aerial combat, the architect of America’s first strategic bomber force, and others who helped lead America into military aviation. After the war, those who survived went on to leadership positions in many fields, including military and civilian aviation. Wortman adds that many leaders of America’s air forces in World War II and the Cold War emerged from the Millionaires’ Unit. Wortman learned of the Millionaires’ Unit from members of the modern Yale Flying Club at Tweed Airport while he was an editor of Yale Alumni Magazine. “I knew much about Yale history and culture, as well as military history,” he says. “I became fascinated by the romance of their early flying adventures, the glamorous world at Yale and the mansions of Long Island’s North Shore, and their wartime heroics, loves, and fears.” When Wortman learned of the Millionaires’ Unit, no book had been published about the group in 75 years. “They had largely disappeared from public and even military awareness; I felt it was time they received modern recognition,” he says. More than a century later, Wortman says the story remains relevant. “We live in a world in which flight is a regular part of our lives, and aviation forms a core of mili-

Continued from page 23 Chess Workshop: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Features instruction from a ranked chess coach on tactics and strategies, with time for gameplay. Open to children, teens, and adults with basic knowledge of chess. Space is limited. Registration required; each participant must register separately. For info or to register, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

tary strategy and tactics. That comes directly from these young men’s achievements and heroism, just a few years after the Wright brothers flew.” Wortman says today’s Yale students often come from the same elite realms as these earlier aviators, adding, “With great privilege comes responsibility. Do we see that ethical belief in the students at Yale and elsewhere today?” Wortman is an independent historian and freelance journalist and the author of five books on American military, technology, and social history. His most recent book, The Greatest Capitalist Who Ever Lived: Tom Watson Jr. and the Epic Story of How IBM Created the Digital Age, was a New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice. The U.S. Military History Group named his previous book, Admiral Hyman Rickover: Engineer of Power, its outstanding military history book of the year. His other books include 1941: Fighting the Shadow War, A Divided America in a World at War, and The Bonfire: The Siege and Burning of Atlanta. A feature-length documentary based on The Millionaires’ Unit is available on streaming services. Wortman has written for publications including Vanity Fair, Smithsonian, Rolling Stone, and Time. He has appeared on CNN, NPR, Disney+, C-SPAN Book TV, History Channel, MS Now, and other broadcast and

Photo courtesy of Marc Wortman.

Members of the First Yale Unit, the pioneering aviation squadron formed by Yale students in 1916 and later known as the Millionaires’ Unit, pose for a photograph. Historian Marc Wortman will explore the group’s history during a Nov. 12 program at the New Haven Museum.

streaming outlets. He also produced the exhibit on Adm. Hyman Rickover now on display at the Submarine Force Museum in Groton. After attending Brown University, he received a doctorate in comparative literature from Princeton University. The New Haven Museum has been collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its inception as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862.

Pokémon Club: 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For ages 6 to 11. Participants can learn the card game, take part in a Pokémon activity and discuss Pokémon with other enthusiasts. Cards will be available for use. Children can bring their own cards to play and trade; parents or caregivers must remain in the library during the program. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

LEGO Fest: 2 p.m. Saint Ann’s Episcopal Church, GrisAutumn Tea Party: 1 to 3 p.m. United Methodist Church, wold Room, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. Features an oppor811 East Main St., Branford. Cost: $30 for adults, $10 for tunity to share LEGO creations or build a creation using children; children under 5 free. Reservations required. For LEGOs provided at the event. Refreshments will be proinfo or reservations, call 203-488-0549. vided. Free and open to all ages. For info, visit saintannsoldlyme.org.

Located at 114 Whitney Ave. in New Haven, the museum brings more than 375 years of New Haven history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs, and outreach. As a Blue Star Museum, it offers active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve members, free admission year-round. For more information, visit newhavenmuseum.org or call 203-562-4183.

Viewing the Moment Opening Reception: 2 to 4 p.m. Southington Community Cultural Arts, 93 Main St. Features an opening reception for Viewing the Moment, an exhibition by the artists of Gallery One exploring everyday experiences and memories through painting, photography, and collage. Free and open to the public. For info, email galleryonect@gmail.com or visit galleryonect.com. Poetry on the Rails: 3 to 5 p.m. Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Poetry program aboard a vintage trolley featuring readings by Fred Gerhard, a museum motorman and poet, and open-mic opportunities for participants. Boarding begins approximately 15 minutes before departure. Admission is free; donations to the museum are encouraged. For info or reservations, contact 203-467-6927 or reservations@shorelinetrolley.org or visit shorelinetrolley.org. See page 25

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

gram and silent auction. Tickets are $150 per person. For info or tickets, visit sltmfundraiser.auctria.events.

Continued from page 24 Music on the Lawn: 4 p.m. Saint Ann’s Episcopal Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. Features singer/songwriter George Potts and multi-instrumentalist Gordon Titcomb performing contemporary folk music and Americana. Held outdoors, weather permitting. Attendees may bring a picnic. For info, visit saintannsoldlyme.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 860767-0681 or visit essexhistory.org.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 27 East River Preserve Trail Run: 8 a.m. East River Preserve, Guilford. Social-paced trail run through East River Preserve and Eastwoods led by Guilford Land Conservation Trust directors Bernadette Bober and Jodie Lang. Base loop is 4.5 miles, with additional distance available. Open to new and experienced trail runners. Meet at the large Sullivan Drive lot by the Stump Dump entrance. For info, text 203508-2064.

MONDAY, SEPT. 28 Painting With Carol: 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. For grades 5 to 12. Features step-by-step painting instruction. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org. Composting 101 Plus Worms!: 5 p.m. Ivoryton Library, 106 Main St., Ivoryton. Presented by Sustainable Essex and Ivoryton Library. Registration encouraged but not required. For info, email sustsxct@gmail.com. Photo courtesy of Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery

Arrowhead performs during a Chester First Friday event. The group will provide live traditional and original tunes and ballads at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Gallery during the Oct. 2 Chester First Friday Night Art Stroll.

First Friday Brings Art, Music, and Anniversary Celebration Press Release from Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery

The Merchants of Chester will present the next Chester First Friday Night Art Stroll on Friday, Oct. 2, from 5 to 8 p.m. Most shops, restaurants, and galleries will 26th Annual Lake Gaillard Walk: 9 a.m. remain open late for the evening. to 1 p.m. Buses depart from Atwater At Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Gallery, 1 Spring St., artist Leif Nilsson Branford, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Walk will continue an intimate “show and tell,” around Lake Gaillard, normally closed to sharing anecdotal tales of his adventures the public, with seven-mile and shorter and connections to some of the oldest and route options. Participants must begin the newest paintings of his home and travels trail by 11 a.m. and exit by 1 p.m. Rain or on view in the gallery. The evening will include live traditional and original tunes shine. Advance registration: $10 for ages 11 and up; $5 for ages 3 to 10; free for chil- and ballads by Arrowhead. Pattaconk will offer fall cocktails, along dren under 3. On-site registration: $15. with seasonal selections on tap, including Pay in advance by Venmo @NorthfordWomens-Club or by check payable to Northford-North Branford Women’s Club and mailed to Lake Gaillard Monthly Drawing Class: 1 to 3 p.m. BACA Walk, P.O. Box 264, Northford, CT 06472. Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Drawing Hosted by the Northford-North Branford class with Edith Reynolds. Fee is $10. For Women’s Club GFWC and Regional Water info, call 203-433-4071 or visit branforAuthority. For info, email the Northforddarts.org. North Branford Women’s Club northford.nbwomensclubgfwc@gmail.com. Musical Arts Society Presents: Gilbert Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. YMA Annex, 554 Woodward Ave., New Haven. Sponsored by the New Haven Philatelic Society. For info, visit nhps1914.com.

and Sullivan: 1:30 to 3 p.m. Blackstone Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Members of the Connecticut Gilbert and Sullivan Society perform music from Gilbert and Sullivan comic operas, including selections from The Pirates of Penzance. Pre-

Oktoberfests, pumpkin ciders, and pumpkin ales. SUNROOM salon & gallery, 1 Main St., will celebrate its first anniversary during the stroll. The celebration will feature AVEDA specials and raffle prizes, work by Jason Paradis, cake by Adriana Leiva, and music on the stoop with Joel Paradis. Annie Gourlie will offer craniosacral mini sessions, Lauren Mahana will offer mini readings, and Jaclyn Shea of River + Rise will be a special guest. Drinks and snacks will also be available. For more information about Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Gallery, call 860-526-2077 or visit nilssonstudio.com. For more information about SUNROOM salon & gallery, call 860-526-3533 or visit sunroom.glossgenius.com.

sented by the Musical Arts Society of Branford. Free. Registration required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org. Forging the Future: Innovation and Ingenuity That Moved America: 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Woodwinds, 29 School Ground Rd., Branford. Fundraising dinner hosted by the Shore Line Trolley Museum featuring keynote speaker Anthony “Unk” DaRos, former Branford first selectman and local historian. Includes dinner, a pro-

Social Justice Book Discussion: 6:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Elijah Manning of Inclusive Education LLC facilitates a discussion of One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad. Copies are available for checkout at the library. Zoom participation is available. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 29 Artistic Creation in Belle Epoque France: Specific Works: 10 a.m. Guilford Community Center, 32 Church St. Hosted by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning. Explores one painting, one musical composition, and one ballet from the Belle Epoque period. Cost: $3. For info or to register, visit ssill.org. Branford Community Foundation Charity Golf Tournament: Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club, 294 Pine Orchard Rd., Branford. Registration opens at 10:30 a.m.; lunch at 11:15 a.m.; shotgun start at noon; dinner, awards, and prizes at 5 p.m. Benefits the Branford Community Foundation's mission and operations. Hosted by the Branford Community Foundation. Registration for foursomes and dinner tickets available. For info or to register, contact 203-444-4898, or visit branfordcommunityfoundation.org. Tea and Talk: 2 p.m. Lillian’s Pergola, behind Pa’s Place, 514 Whitfield St., Guilford. Features conversation for seniors. Sponsored by Shoreline Village CT. For info, contact George at 203-747-5939 or email info@ShorelineVillageCT.org. See page 26

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

Animal Awareness Day Returns to Guilford Fairgrounds Press Release from Branford Compassion Club

Branford Compassion Club’s feline rescue and adoption center will hold its annual Animal Awareness Day on Sunday, Oct. 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Lane. It is the second year for the event at the rain-or-shine venue, where it moved from its longtime home on the Branford Green as work continues on that town’s Main Street renovation. The annual Blessing of the Animals, an homage to St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, was the genesis of the event in its founding year of 1997, along with a small tag and bake sale on the Branford Green. This year’s blessing will be held at 1:30 p.m. with local church affiliates. For more than two decades, Animal Awareness Day has entertained animal lovers from throughout the area while raising funds to support the Branford Compassion Club’s mission of helping homeless felines and supporting its Feline Rescue and Adoption Center, 2027 Foxon Road, North Branford. Event Chairperson and BCC board member Chris Gagne and her committee make a commitment to bring something new and different each year to join such returning attractions as the dog-kissing booth, children’s activity booth with a face painter, photos with Santa Claus, bake

Photo courtesy of Branford Compassion Club

Two dogs take in the activity at a previous Branford Compassion Club Animal Awareness Day. The annual event returns to the Guilford Fairgrounds on Sunday, Oct. 4.

sale, vendors, and crafts. New this year is Madison-based Alpha Dog Events, which will bring its Alpha Dog Fun Run Corral to the fairgrounds. The lure-based course “taps into a dog’s prey drive and herding instincts.” Suitable for all breeds, it provides high-energy exercise as dogs chase the lure at various

Continued from page 25 Can You Dig It?: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Learn about ancient civilizations with archaeologist Becca and create crafts inspired by the topics discussed. This month’s topic is Stonehenge. Recommended for children in grades 2 to 6. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com. Choose Your Own Adventure Author Talk with Ryan Estrada: 6 to 7 p.m. Online. Virtual author talk with artist, author and adventurer Ryan Estrada featuring an interactive, game-based format. Registration required. Free. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org. Estate Planning: 6:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Covers wills and trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives, planning for minor children, common probate issues, and steps to protect assets. Presented by Legacy Law Partners. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Candidates' Debate: 7 p.m. Branford Fire Department Headquarters, 45 N. Main St. (Rt. 1), Branford. Candidates for the 102nd Connecticut House of Representatives Dis-

speeds and directions, stimulating both body and mind. “We’re excited to have them there for the day, so bring your dog,” Gagne says. “There is a small fee to have your dog participate, with more details at their website, myalphadog.net.” There will be live entertainment by

trict seat are Robin Comey, D, and Paul Crisci, R. The League of Women Voters of the East Shore is sponsoring the debate. Questions for the candidates may be submitted to eastshoreleague@yahoo.com. The public is invited to attend. For info, email eastshoreleague@yahoo.com.

singer and BCC member Kelsey Elizabeth Matthew, along with about 30 vendor, rescue, and sponsor booths. Quinnipiac University Professor Donna Latella returns with her mini therapy horses and dogs at 12:30 p.m. The 99.1 WPLR tent will be on site again, and Ruth from the Chaz & AJ Morning Show will be there from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Turtle Haven Rescue will return with its popular gentle turtle ambassadors. Food and beverages will be available from The Greenery and Cinco de Mayo food trucks, as well as the Brew Haus gourmet coffee truck. The Regional Water Authority Water Wagon will also return. Admission is free to the family-friendly event thanks to Animal Awareness Day sponsors. Platinum sponsors are 99.1 WPLR, Alpha Dog Events, Autografix, c2c Graphics, Anne and Jeff Godsey, Guilford Veterinary Hospital, Premier Subaru & Premier KIA, and Regional Water Authority Water Wagon. Gold sponsors are Ascend Bank/Branford Community Foundation and Lakes Veterinary Services. Silver sponsors are Aquatic Pool & Spa, Captain Kitt’s Cat Boarding, Happy Tails Bathing and Grooming, Joint Effort Exercise, and Eunice Lasala. Bronze sponsors are Branford Dental Care, CareFur Veterinarians, Chabaso Bakery, Choice Pet, and Madison Veterinary Hospital.

Chess Club: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Smith Memorial Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For tweens and teens. Some previous knowledge is required, but beginners are welcome. Registration is not required. Tweens under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For info, visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Autumn Book Chats with Marsha Bansavage: 6:30 p.m. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. Book: Pride and Library Card Holder Craft: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Killingworth Prejudice by Jane Austen. All are welcome. For info, conLibrary, 301 Route 81, Killingworth. Participants will cretact 860-526-0018 or Library@ChesterCT.org. ate a felt library card holder with a lanyard in celebration of Library Card Signup Month. All supplies provided. Suitable for all family members. Registration required; supplies are limited. For info or to register, call 860-663WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 30 2000. Baby Playtime: 10 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For caregivers and young children from birth to age 2; sibWatercolor Workshop: 5 to 7 p.m. BACA Gallery, 1004 lings welcome. Features opportunities for children to Main St., Branford. Watercolor workshop with Sharon explore toys and practice fine and gross motor skills, fol- Hart. Fee is $30. For info, call 203-433-4071 or visit branlowing directions, socializing, and language skills. Free fordarts.org. and open to the public. No registration required. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Resin Necklaces: 5:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, Free Middle School Drop-In Workshop Session A: 1:15 to 3:15 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Middle school students can work on art projects or explore materials independently. No registration required. Adams Middle School students can walk or take Bus 24 to the Center. For info, contact 203-453-5947 or info@guilfordartcenter.org or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

150 Main St., Deep River. Participants ages 12 and older can create a poured resin necklace with art instructors from Shell & Bee. Free. Registration required; seating is limited. For info, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com. See page 27

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 Continued from page 26

THURSDAY, OCT. 1 A Journey Through the Early Years of Rock 'n' Roll: 10 a.m. Guilford Community Center, 32 Church St. Hosted by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning. Presented by Harvey Heyman. Explores the evolution of rock 'n' roll through video clips from the 1950s and 1960s. Cost: $3. For info or to register, visit ssill.org.

Photo courtesy of Ivoryton Playhouse

Ivoryton Playhouse welcomes guests for its Summer Season AfterParty, the theater’s annual celebration and fundraiser. This year’s event will be held Saturday, Sept. 19.

Ivoryton Playhouse Celebrates ‘The Heart Behind the Art’ Press Release from Ivoryton Playhouse

Ivoryton Playhouse will raise a glass to the people who make the magic possible at its annual Summer Season AfterParty on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 5 p.m. at the historic Ivoryton Playhouse. The second annual signature event celebrates the community of donors, volunteers, artists, and supporters whose generosity and dedication help keep professional theater thriving in Essex and along the Shoreline. More than a fundraiser, the Summer Season AfterParty has become the Playhouse’s biggest celebration of the year, with food, spirited giving, live entertainment, and dancing. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction. The event then shifts to a live auction hosted by Duke and Bird of Duke Says Sold. Guests can bid on experiences and getaways, including a week in Kennebunkport, Maine, tickets to the Audrain Newport Concours d’Elegance, and exclusive behind-the-scenes Playhouse opportunities. Proceeds support the Playhouse’s annual fund for operational and organizational expenses. Once the bidding paddles come down, the volume goes up. Broadway veterans Ben Hope and Eric Anthony lead The Road Sodas as the evening turns into a dance party, bringing their blend of rock, country, Americana, and crowd favorites to the AfterParty stage.

“All the productions seen on our stage are entirely created here at Ivoryton Playhouse. We do not import touring shows or ready-made presentations; instead, we craft everything ourselves. This includes hiring scenic, lighting, and projection designers, directors, choreographers, actors, orchestra members, and more. Our creations are fully tailored to serve our community. During summer productions, our staff can grow more than fivefold. This massive effort is only feasible thanks to the dedicated supporters working alongside us,” says Ivoryton Playhouse Executive Producer Ben Hope, who also leads the band at the fundraiser. “This evening is our opportunity to honor the volunteers who dedicate their time, the donors who support our mission, and everyone who contributes to making the Playhouse a vital part of this community,” Hope says. The AfterParty comes at the close of another ambitious, record-breaking season at the historic Playhouse and offers audiences, longtime supporters, and newcomers a chance to experience Ivoryton in an entirely different way. The Summer Season AfterParty, The Heart Behind the Art, will be held Saturday, Sept. 19, at 5 p.m. at Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St., Ivoryton. Tickets are available at ivorytonplayhouse.org or by calling 860-767-9520. Tickets are limited, and advance reservations are encouraged.

Virtual Author Talk with Veronica Roth: 7 p.m. Online. Veronica Roth, author of the Divergent series, will discuss her work and upcoming novel, The Sixth Faction. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

ONGOING EVENTS

Farmers Markets Dudley Farm Farmers Market: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 31. Exploring and Accessing Benefits: 1 to Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. 3 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Julie Cruz, RN, Features fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, handmade crafts, live CSA, discusses benefits, financial assistance and community resources available music, children’s activities, and seasonal to caregivers and care recipients, with gui- events. For info, email marketmanager@dudleyfarmfoundation.com or visit dance on navigating programs and dudleyfarm.com. accessing support. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 203Farmers Market at the Guilford Fair315-6020 or visit nbranfordlibraries.org. grounds: 4 to 7 p.m. Thursdays through October, weather permitting. Guilford Teen Crafternoon: Blackout Poetry: 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killing- Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. Features worth Turnpike, Clinton. For ages 12 to 18. locally grown produce, baked goods, artisan breads, meats, seafood, fresh pasta, Create blackout poetry using pages from eggs, specialty foods, and Connecticutold books and newspapers. Registration made crafts. Rain or shine. For info, email required. For info or to register, call 860farmersmarket@guilfordfair.org 669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org. Chair-ity Fundraiser Unveiling: 5 to 7 p.m. Connecticut Cancer Foundation, 15 N. Main St., Old Saybrook. Unveiling of transformed chairs created by local trades professionals and artists, with wine, cheese and crackers, a live auction and an art exhibit featuring works by Cat Francucci, Patrick Ganino and Melissa Imossi. Proceeds benefit the Connecticut Cancer Foundation. For info, email info@tidewaterltg.com. Metropolitan Opera Talk: Così fan tutte with Roger Grant: 5:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Wesleyan University Professor of Music Roger Mathew Grant discusses Mozart’s Così fan tutte ahead of the Metropolitan Opera’s Oct. 3 Live in HD broadcast. Presented by Guilford Free Library, Shoreline Opera Club, and Shoreline Village. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, visit guilfordfreelibrary.org/events/event/metropolitanopera-talk-cosi-fan-tutte-with-rogergrant/. Shoreline Sailing Club Event: 7 p.m. Clark Memorial Fieldhouse, 210 Elm St., Old Saybrook. For active singles 35 and over. First-time guests are free; cost is $10 for others. BYOB. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

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.

Beyoncé

Horoscopes

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING

For the week of September 24 - September 30 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Aries, you will soon learn that any obstacle can be overcome if you set your mind to it. While a certain task may seem daunting right now, don’t allow it to intimidate you.

It’s time to get the creative juices flowing, Libra. Tackle a project around the house, like painting or rearranging a room. Look for a new creative hobby as well.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Others are paying attention to you even if they seem distracted, Taurus. Embrace the scrutiny and do your best to reciprocate any special attention coming your way.

Scorpio, you have a lot of energy and a need to strive toward perfection in all that you do. Those traits will prove valuable around the office this week.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Gemini, make an effort to be there for a loved one this week. You have a unique ability to listen and support others, and your loved one will not take your efforts for granted.

Keep trying to convince someone that your ideas are credible, Sagittarius. With a little more persuasion, you may win this person over and he or she will become a big supporter.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Cancer, if your energy and attention span is a bit scattered this week, take steps to ensure all of your responsibilities are taken care of. A respite is on the horizon.

Capricorn, even if you don’t want to go along with what the group is doing this week, you may have to concede that what is best for the group trumps your personal preference.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Leo, by observing others you can learn how they operate and make the most of your chances to work with them. Apply a similar approach to your personal relationships.

Aquarius, financial issues may be keeping you on your toes, but it’s nothing you can’t handle if you stick to your plan. You may want to do some tinkering, however.

Crossword

Crossword solution for September 17, 2026

CLUES ACROSS 1. A place for worship VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22 PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20 7. Referee declaration Try to tackle a financial project this week, Virgo. Pisces, continue to bring the right people into your 10. Torsos Select something relatively easy to begin with, inner circle. One person in particular has your eye and then go from there if you find yourself in a and might be just what you need. 12. Used to introduce something financial groove. 13. Healing method 14. Takes to the sea FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS 15. Make law SEPTEMBER 24 SEPTEMBER 28 16. French coastal city Nia Vardalos, Actress (64) Naomi Watts, Actress (58) 17. Hawaiian dish SEPTEMBER 25 SEPTEMBER 29 18. Young of domestic cattle Bella Ramsey, Actress (23) Halsey, Singer (32) 19. Women’s undergarments SEPTEMBER 26 SEPTEMBER 30 21. 60-minute intervals (abbr.) Serena Williams, Athlete (45) Olivier Giroud, Athlete (40) 22. One after another SEPTEMBER 27 27. It’s a hot topic these days Jenna Ortega, Actress (24) 28. Folk band frontman 33. They precede C 34. Heavenly 36. Fiddler crabs 37. Major Hindu deity 38. Hebrew given name 39. Cost per mile 40. __ Romeo, car 41. Rural municipality in Manitoba 44. Narratives 45. “A tragedy had __ him” 48. Iranian city 49. Praises publicly 50. Founding Father Franklin 51. Herbal tea

CLUES DOWN 1. Indian unit of mass 2. “Tears in Heaven” singer Clapton

3. Part of a sailing vessel 4. Part of (abbr.) 5. Polynesian garland of flowers 6. Keyboard key 7. One who steals 8. Large oven 9. Former CIA 10. Idea 11. Solomon Islands capital 12. Afrikaans 14. Remove thatch 17. Television network 18. Jalen Brunson is one 20. Title of respect 23. Flowering trees 24. Occurring in a tube 25. Exists 26. Woman (French) 29. Expression of doubt 30. NHL legend Bobby 31. Accomplished 32. Makes slightly wet 35. National Assn. of Manufacturers 36. Not sated 38. Poe’s middle name 40. Swiss river 41. Rhythmic pattern in Indian music 42. “Shane” actor Ladd 43. Popular whodunit board game 44. Bar bill 45. Ballplayer’s tool 46. Indicates near 47. Feet per second

Word Search

LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle. HUNTING & FISHING WORD SEARCH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for September 17, 2026: FIELD

ANGLER BAG LIMIT BAIT BLINDS BOBBER CAMO CAMOUFLAGE CASTING CATCH DECOY FLETCHING GAME HABITAT HARVEST LICENSE LURE NET POACHING QUARRY SCENT SEASON TACKLE TRACKING WILDERNESS

Word Search solution for September 17, 2026

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Transactions NOW WITH MORE HORSEPOWER!

CHESTER

T E A M

Bob Cubellotti 203-996-1225

22 Goose Hill Road: Stacey D. and for all your real estate needs Robert M. Lee to Thomas W. OConnell and Kayla R. Forsberg, $500,000 on Sept. 2

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

SUSAN MALAN Broker Associate CT & & Licensed in RI

25 River Road, Essex

6 Jagger Lane: Estate of Kristin Dierrico and Lauren Hills to Jeffrey and Karen Cohen, $805,000 on Sept. 2

Hidden in plain sight! An extraordinary pocket estate within walking distance to Essex Village. Built in 1801, this remarkable 3,032 SF on a rare .90 acre site, also conveys with an additional adjacent .48-acre waterfront parcel. Sweeping views across a and Sara Road picturesque meadow and stream. Featuring 4 fireplaces, French H O U23 L I H Cedar AN L A W R:EDavid NCE doors, original wooden beams, a wood-shingle roof, stunning Vasiliou to Breyden J. and Olivia WA R E C K D’O S T I L I O kitchen anchored by a professional Lacanche range. Beyond the Kennedy, $505,000 on Sept. 3 main residence, a detached 384 SF studio/home office, fitness ¿Quiere comprar, vender o rentar una propiedad en East Haven o sus alrededores? Déjeme ayudarle, or creative space, while the walk-out lower level includes a solo llámeme para cualquier consulta de bienes raices. 84 Founders Village Unit 84: Estate charming 200sf brick “pub room” with woodstove and an Carlos Carrillo 203-464-2131 of Mary E. Ferry and Kerry E. adjoining workshop. A detached two-car garage and potting shed complete the property. Enjoy the romance, privacy and Knobelsdorff to Sandra and Wayne character of a country estate, with Essex Village and the CT River Mccurdy, $269,000 on Sept. 1 just moments from your door. Offered at $2,250,000

CLINTON

T E A M

Rick Weiner

ESSEX

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

21 New City Street: Leif E. Owens and Kristen A. Herringer-Owens to Matthew and Kaitlin Smith, $1,650,000 on Sept. 2

3rd 24 New City Street: Palmer Three Generations of Rea William L Est and Shannon V. Palmer to Greg Robbins Attilio and Jetta Albani, $1,203,366 on 203 Sept. 4 HOULIHAN

24 New City Street: W And D W A R E C K D ’ O S RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIA Palmer Real Estate Trust and Mary 978P. Main Street | Post to Attilio and Jetta Albani, $489,708 on Sept. 4

18 Happy Acres Road: First Class Top 1% of All Agents in Prop LLC to Rebecca Zychowski, Licensed CT Real Estate Broker 199 Westbrook Road: Philip williampitt.com the USA $449,535 on Sept. 2 GregA. Robbins 20 ESSEX BROKERAGE | 13 MAIN| 860.767.7488 STREET | 860.767.7488 ESSEX BROKERAGE | 13 MAIN STREET Depaula to Judith Ladone, $715,000 on of R Three Generations OLD LYME BROKERAGE | 103 HALLS ROAD | 860.434.2400 OLD LYME BROKERAGE | 103 HALLS ROAD | 860.434.2400MORTGAGE FINANCING AVAILABLE 1.855.298.5650 MORTGAGE FINANCING AVAILABLE 1.855.298.5650

Top Producing Realtor

HHHHH

williampitt.com

Broker Associate

860.227.3191

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49 Ironworks Road: Ashley P. and Brandon L. Mcdowell to Weston and Michelle Herrmann, $410,000 on Sept. 1

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

NORTH COVE

25 River Road Essex Ct.indd 1

9/17/26 11:45 AM

100 Dudley Avenue, #F30 978 Main Street | Branford Old Saybrook $779,000 Spectacular North Cove unobstructed water views and downtown village living come together in this beautifully renovated townhouse-style condo, offering an exceptional opportunity for shoreline buyers seeking a turn-key home under $1 million. Enjoy captivating water views and wildlife from the open kitchen, dining and living areas, with a stylish renovated kitchen featuring a breakfast bar and wonderful natural light.

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

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.

978 Main Street

RonRoad Stewart 203-415-8174 : Leona G 84 Old Nod 101 Main Street • Old Saybrook, CT Arsenault T and Leona G. Arsenault to Benchmark Holdings LLC, $800,000 on Sept. 2 Clinton, Deep River & Essex Real Estate Expert

110 Nut Placeains Road: Elaine D. 203 Minore to E. Stewart Johnson,RESIDENTIAL $660,000 | COMMERCIAL | on Aug. 31 978 Main Street | B

DEEP RIVER

20 Riverside Court: Laura C. Bell and Ashley G. Anderson to Benjamin and Shannon Stephens, $875,000 on Sept. 3

Ron Stewart 203-415-8174

101 Main Street • Old Saybrook, CT

#1 Coldwell Banker Agent in Middlesex County

JOEL LUCAS, REALTOR®

GUILFORD

Clinton, Deep River & Essex Real Estate Expert : Michael F. 126 Kelseytown Road and Jennifer E. Beermuender to Leonard Loralei of Rea 274 Church Street Unit Three 4C: Generations W. and Christine A. Rybka, $1,180,000 L. ONeill and Edward J. Panczak to on Sept. 3 Marina R. Cordeau, $315,000 on Sept. 1

Clinton, Deep River & Essex Real Estate Expert

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!

Sept. 1

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

57 Bridge Street: Estate of Guy G. French and Cassidy A. Seip to Randee Randall-Jermainne, $380,000 on Aug. 31

KILLINGWORTH 23 Cow Hill Road: Shawn Dooley to Anthony B. Greene and Marei BaileyGreene, $850,000 on Sept. 3 Route 81: Steve Santacroce and Roberta Gule to Francis C. Katai and Trinnh Bui, $540,000 on Sept. 2

REAL ESTATE • VALLEY COURIER • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Real Estate Transactions MADISON

NORTH BRANFORD

OLD SAYBROOK

WESTBROOK

128 Concord Drive Rows: Brian N. and Meghan B. McGuire to Michael and Racquelle Thieling, $1,250,000 on Sept. 2

1243 Middletown Avenue: Kristin M. Canning and Juan H. Colon to Christian Defrancesco, $830,000 on Aug. 31

15 Baum Avenue: Pauline T. Mcdougall to Landmark Rlty Grp, $330,000 on Sept. 2

12 Dolphia Avenue: Anne E. Richter Irt and Kara Pisani to Matthew and Kathleen Bowen, $375,000 on Aug. 31

141 Duck Hole Road: Duck Hole Real Estate LLC to Sean and Lori OConnell, $575,000 on Aug. 31

NORTH HAVEN

141 Durham Road Unit 16: Christopher Anatra to Align Dragonflys Keep LLC, $138,000 on Sept. 2

69 Bassett Road: Geanella Lara to Kristopher L. and Morgan DaurSchierholz, $439,000 on Aug. 31

33 River Edge Farms Road: Prakash Rawal and Tracy G. Love to Frank O. and Marlene E. Meade, $1,750,000 on Aug. 31

54 Coventry Circle: Estate of Robert O. Bacon and Glenn Bacon to Tr Investments LLC, $265,000 on Aug. 27

53 Summer Hill Road: John T. Datsko to Kleankorp LLC, $460,000 on Sept. 4 37 Sylvan Road: Sheila N. Fanelli Real Estate Trust and Michael R. Fanelli to Emily and Mason J. McKay, $1,000,000 on Aug. 31

42 Ezra Street: Rosemary B. Carey to Corey Walsh, $407,000 on Aug. 28 44 Ezra Street: Rosemary B. Carey to Allison Vandermaelen, $168,000 on Sept. 1 1400 Hartford Turnpike Unit 31: Rachael Nazario to James H. Wilson and Alyiah Masselli, $361,500 on Sept. 2

22 Beaver Dam Trail: Dana Novorio to Nicholas and Kristin Petrella, 9 Second Avenue: Kira M. Penksa $625,000 on Sept. 2 to Tasia Perkins and Joseph Hansen, $472,000 on Sept. 1 92 Bokum Road: Anita Wolf to Shannon Marie McCarthy, $525,000 on Sept. 1 Note: Real estate transactions are published using publicly available 5 Cove Landing: Estate of Nancy C. records and are matters of public record. Steigleder and Kristin Bannon to Joan Listings are not removed in response to W. Priest 2025 T and John W. Priest, general privacy requests. Removal will $1,648,000 on Sept. 4 only be considered in cases involving a documented and credible personal safety concern. Requests may be 2 Half Penny Lane: Maureen D Walsh Real Estate Trust and Maureen submitted to zip06@shore Proffitt to Michael and Bryanna publishing.com Paradis, $580,000 on Aug. 31 49 Hartford Avenue: Robert Dillon to David and Kelly Danna, $385,000 on Sept. 1

L A N D F O R SA L E 4 B a n k L a n e, E s s ex

L A N D F O R SA L E 4 1 b R i v e r Ro a d , E s s e x

F O R SA L E 1 7 I n d u s t r i a l Pa r k Ro a d , E s s e x

Listed at: $725,000

Listed at: $995,000

Listed at: $3,500,000

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

F O R SA L E 9 0 0 I n d u s t r i a l Pa r k Ro a d , D e e p R i ve r Listed at: $1,270,000

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

#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 9–9/ 14/ 26, total t ra nsa ct ions an d d oll a r volum e by a gent , Essex County; all pro p erties listed or sold by agent . ²1/1/ 23 –9 /14/ 26, Mi dd lesex County. ³Wi l l i am P it t Sot heby's Intern at 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.

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 • VALLEY COURIER • REAL ESTATE

Historic Waterfront Sanctuary on Falls River Cove 21 RIVER ROAD, ESSEX • NEWLY LISTED AT: $3,250,000

Riverside Elegance

15.22 Private Acres on the River

Private Beach Association

Classic Period Charm

11 RIVER ROAD, OLD SAYBROOK LISTED AT: $6,600,000

89 RIVER ROAD, EAST HADDAM LISTED AT: $5,775,000

14 CUTLER ROAD, OLD LYME LISTED AT: $1,200,000

17 SCHOLES LANE, ESSEX UNDER CONTRACT: $3,295,000

Admired Riverfront Home

Beautifully Restored Waterfront

Meticulously Preserved

Mid-Century Masterpiece

24 NEW CITY STREET, ESSEX SOLD: $3,895,000

7 HANNA LANE, ESSEX SOLD: $3,850,000

35 SILL LANE, OLD LYME SOLD: $1,775,000

3 MEETINGHOUSE LANE, OLD LYME SOLD: $1,250,000

Represented Buyer

From new opportunities to successful sales, my recent activity reflects the strength of today’s market. Thinking about your next move? Let me put my proven expertise to work for you.

Diamond Award Winner realtor® | top luxury producer

m: 860.304.2391 | o: 860.767.7488 charron@williampitt.com coletteharron.williampitt.com Essex Brokerage: 13 Main Street, Essex

Source: William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty 2025 Awards Recognition. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.