November 13, 2025
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Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXV Iss. 46
Deep River Democrats Win the Day By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer
Deep River saw the only contested race at the top of the ballot, which may have been a reason for the amount of voters the town saw in this most recent municipal election. In 2023, Deep River saw 1,744 registered voters make their voices heard at the polls, creating
a 53% voter turnout. This year, 1,889 voters showed up to the polls, including same-day and early voting, creating a 57.4% election turnout, one of the highest in the region. Deep River Democratic Town Committee member Matt Forte said that the increase in voter turnout, while surprising, is very welcome. “You can see that it has been a very steady
turnout for this election throughout the day,” he said. “It has honestly been greater than we expected.” This may have to do with the six contested races on the ballot, including first selectman, Assessment Appeals Board, Ethics Commission and two Ethics Commission alternates,
Kim Gallagher is a talented musician in the shoreline area who plays in several different bands..............2
See Deep River page 6
Putting Their Heads Together Alexander Salazar, 6, left, works with fellow classmates during an experiment led by Claudia Esposito from Cool-ology at the Essex Library on Nov. 8. The program, for ages 5 to 12, showed how monomers bind together to form polymers and colloids using fun and simple experiments.
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Valley Courier
Winning Together The Valley girls’ soccer team formed an unbreakable bond this fall and won the Shoreline Conference Championship..............................10
Supporting Local Causes The All Things Killingworth town picnic brought the community together for a day of fun, food, and generosity....................................20
Thank You! Red House
158 Main Street, Deep River Text 860.662.9211 for Reservations
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
Kim Gallagher: The Sound of Music By Rita Christopher Courier Senior Correspndent
On Monday and Thursday mornings, Kim Gallagher plays in the New Horizons Band at the Community Music School (CMS) in Essex. On Monday night, she plays in the Old Lyme Town Band, and Tuesday night finds her at rehearsals of the New London Community Orchestra. Not only does she have to keep the rehearsals straight, she has to remember whether she is going to play the clarinet or the saxophone, and whether that will be a tenor or an alto sax. For the holiday season performances of the Old Lyme Town Band, Kim will be playing tenor sax, a larger instrument with a lower register than the alto. Members of the group come from all across the Shoreline, from towns ranging from Guilford to Niantic. The band is giving its annual holiday concert at The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook on Wednesday, Dec.
Person
of the Week 17, a special performance to culminate its 50th anniversary. The band was formed to celebrate America’s bicentennial in 1976. The group is one of the very few amateur musical groups that pays annually at The Kate. On this year’s program are seasonal favorites like Greensleeves, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Leroy Anderson’s well known Sleigh Ride, and Shalom from the Broadway production of Milk and Honey. Tickets for the concert are available through The Kate’s box office. Playing in the musical groups for Kim is about more than the music. It is about the people. “You make new friends; fantastic people
Photo courtesy of Kim Gallagher
Kim Gallagher
See Kim Gallagher page 9
Wild Apple Eye Care would like to CELEBRATING 28 YEARS!
Q: Hi Linda, I have a dwarf Alberta Spruce that is a year old and has developed a serious problem. The entire back has turned brown and-dropped its needles. It looks like it’s dying. What can I do to save it, if anything? Terry A: Hi Terry, I’m sorry, but the spruce cannot be saved. It looks like mites have done their damage to the tree and/or the tree has not been watered enough. Trees and shrubs take 3-5 years to get established. Establishment means the tree has enough active roots to supply water and nutrients from below ground to support all the above ground growth. Newly planted trees and shrubs need to be watered initially, depending on the time of the year, for many weeks to help them get established because they do not have an adequate root system to support the above ground growth. After the initial watering phase, trees and shrubs need to be watered for 3-5 years after planting, mainly in the summer when natural rainfall is scarce, until all the roots grow in to support the tree. If the tree does not get watered properly, it will become stressed and insects are attracted to stressed plants. Mites love dry, Dwarf Alberta Spruce. Dwarf Alberta Spruce need a soil with organic matter that can hold moisture and a part sun/part shade location. THESE ARTICLES ARE GOING DIGITAL! DON’T MISS OUT! SCAN THE QR, SIGN UP & SUBMIT YOUR OWN QUESTIONS
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Inside Sports Donate to a Cause The Valley soccer teams and their Boosters recently donated $600 from snack shack sales to the Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Fund............. 12 The Conclusion Check out this week’s upcoming schedules, as many fall sports will come to a close...................................... 12
& thank them for their courage & commitment in protecting our country & safeguarding our freedoms. To those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we are forever indebted.
Black Friday Basketball Madison Hoop Dreams is offering a Black Friday basketball camp to kids in grades 3 to 8...................................... 12
Living
Call about our special Veterans Benefit (203) 654-3360
The Holiday Spirit Ivoryton Playhouse will be celebrating the holiday season with a production of Playhouse Holiday Jamboree..........24 Arts and Events Check out the list of the wide variety of events coming soon all across the shoreline.......................................................21
Quote
of the week
“We’ve built a culture of all of the girls being able to be themselves that they are able to be themselves without fearing judgment.” - Tessa Malcarne...................10
ACTIVE ADULT • INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING • SKILLED NURSING • REHAB
88 Notch Hill Road • Branford, CT 06471 Evergreen-Woods.com • (203) 654-3360
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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
Matilda in Clinton The Shoreline Theater Academy Kidz Konnection will be putting on Matilda the Musical the weekend of Friday, Nov. 21..........................................................26
Index
Letters................................................... 4 Sports..................................................10 Tides....................................................12 Classifieds..........................................14 Sudoku...............................................19 Living..................................................20 Calendar.............................................21 Horoscopes.......................................28 Crossword Puzzle...........................28 Real Estate.........................................30
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
to Letters the Editor Protect the Character of Essex Essex, Chester, & Deep River’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 2001 Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2025 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877
Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304
Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119
Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant
Alan C. Ellis Production Director
Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122
Did you know that 72 towns in Connecticut have sites on the National Register Of Historic Places? The Register may have one for a single property or districts that cover multiple properties. One such district is the “village” of Ivoryton. Essex, this beautiful, historically rich town has none. A group of us at Essex Meadows have been attending meetings of the ad hoc Historic Preservation Committee to support its goal to seek National Register designation for the town of Essex. Essex is known far and wide for its history and small town charm which need to be preserved not with draconian rules but enough regulation to assure the protection of its special qualities. We encourage interest and support on
Essex Bank Gives $50,000 to Support Local Families In Need Press Release
Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167
Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130
Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140
behalf of the community - those who live here, who work here, who benefit from its topographical, scenic and architectural uniqueness. The future quality of the town is at stake. 3 Pratt Street is gone. What next? We urge attending the meetings of the ad hoc Historic Preservation Committee held on the third Monday of the month at the Town Hall to ask questions, voice concerns, support the committee’s efforts, and encourage concerted and prompt movement toward requesting some level of historic preservation. The special beauty of this town and it history deserve a level of protection NOW, without delay. Carol McElwee and friends Essex
Essex Bank has donated $50,000 to local nonprofits addressing food insecurity and child welfare. The bank contributed to the following charities: Bare Necessities, The Pauline Baldwin Food Pantry, The Estuary’s Meals on Wheels program, and
The Shoreline Soup Kitchen. “Caring for our neighbors has always been a big part of who we are,” comments President & CEO Diane Arnold. “These organizations are doing extraordinary work to support those in need, and we’re honored to support their efforts.”
Editorial Staff
Little Learners at the Library Maria Caulfield Living Editor
Gabrielle Maljanian Sports Editor
Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor
Christian Maldonado Valley Courier
Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography
Eric O’Connell Harbor News
Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent
Essex Library 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 of pajama time on Nov. 14 and turkeys on Nov. 21. The program is best for children ages 2 to 5 to learn early literacy concepts of colors, shapes, opposites, the alphabet, and more. Little Learners story times take place at the library, 33 West Avenue. For more information or to register, contact the library at 860-767-1560 or staff.essexlib@gmail.com, or visit youressexlibrary.org.
Side Show: In Concert Brief Cameo Productions announces its 2026 production, Side Show: In Concert, to be held Friday, Jan. 16, and Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. and on Sunday, Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. at the Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main Street. Sponsorship packages include reserved seated ticketing and other perks. General admission tickets cost $30, available for purchase beginning Sunday, Nov. 16. For more information or tickets, visit briefcameoproductions.com.
Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Essex Sees Substantial Increase in Voter Turnout for 2025 Election, and Democrats Sweep Races By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer
It was a very long Election Day in Essex, with town employees starting their day early and working long into the night trying to calculate all of the votes cast. Despite not having any contested races at the top of the ticket, the Town of Essex saw 2,301 voters, an 11.35% increase compared to the 1,628 registered voters who cast ballots in the 2023 municipal elections. Some election watchers cited the federal government shutdown and other national issues for causing a blue wave that also hit locally, but there does not seem to be a clear reason for the higher turnout compared to previous years. Melissa Ozols, the Essex Registrar of Voters, said she noticed that the polls on Election Day were far more occupied than in previous municipal elections. “I have definitely noticed that the amount of people at the polls is higher than usual,” she said. “We even received a 9% early voting turnout.” In terms of the results of the election, all three incumbent selectmen retained their positions, maintaining two Democrats, First Selectman Norman Needleman and running mate Stacia Libby, as well as the lone Republican, Bruce Glowac. Further down the ballot, the Democrats swept all three contested races, including Town Treasurer, full term Board of Education, and full term Board of Assessment Appeals. Democratic Town Committee Chair Zach Dendas says he is thrilled with the outcome of the election, and now looks to the future and what these results will mean for the Town of Essex. “We are looking forward to continuing our work to solve problems that this town faces,” Dendas said. “In a year like this, a lot of people showed up to vote, and that is a clear indication of interest and concern with the political landscape nationwide.” b
ESSEX RESULTS (Winners in bold, results from the Connecticut Secretary of State website)
First Selectman Norman Needleman (D): 1,791
Selectman Stacia Rice Libby (D): 1,312 Bruce Glowac (R): 649 Gary Comstock (PC): 291
Town Clerk Caitlin Riley (D): 1,581 Caitlin Riley (R): 619
Town Treasurer Jim Francis (D): 1,529 Vincent A. Pacileo III (R): 715
Tax Collector Megan D. Haskins (D): 1,582 Megan D. Haskins (R): 616
Board of Finance W. Campbell Hudson III (D): 1,581 Mary-Louise H. Polo (D): 1,523 W. Campbell Hudson III (R): 590 Mary-Louise H. Polo (R): 618
Board of Education (Full Term) Jan Perruccio (D): 1,522 Kristen Pillion (R): 705
Board of Education (To Fill Vacancy for Two Years) Mark Watson (R): 1,239
Board of Assessment Appeals (Full Term)
Contacting Valley Courier
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Jim Childress (D): 1,561 Michael S. Terry (R) : 675
Board of Assessment Appeals (To Fill Vacancy for Four Years) Jan Perruccio (D): 1,762
Regional Board of Education Lon Seidman (D): 1,552 Lon Seidman (R): 606
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Amy Macmillan Winchell (PC): 1010 6
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
Deep River Democrats Win Day Continued from page 1 and Regional Board of Education. All races were swept by the Democratic Party. Democratic Town Committee Chair Nancy Fishbach said that this year it felt like some of the party’s success could be attributed to issues on a federal level. This includes topics like the uncertainty over SNAP benefits and the federal government shutdown, among other hot-button concerns. “It definitely felt like it meant more to have ‘Democrat’ after your last name this year,” Fishbach said. “This was our first closely contested race in many years ... it felt like what is going on in Washington got more people to go to the polls.” Republican Town Committee Chair Kathryn Russell, who came up short in a race against Carol Jones for first selectman, said that this election would not deter the Republican Party from moving forward. “We are definitely not coming out of this election discouraged,” she said. “We saw an increase in voter turnout from both sides … everyone believes that their voice is important.” Below are the results of the municipal election in Deep River, according to the website of the Secretary of State.
First Selectman Carol V. Doak-Jones (D): 868 Kathryn Russell (R): 669 Oswald Sheppard (I): 345
Selectman Duane Gates (D): 1087 Cynthia Torres (R): 723
Town Clerk Amy Macmillan Winchell (PC): 1010 b
Town Treasurer Thomas W. Lindner (R): 1317
Tax Collector
Board of Finance Timothy Puglielli (R): 1108 Barry Allen Luff (R): 1065
Board of Education Lenore Grunko (D): 981 Kyra Beta (D): 1012 John Ely (R): 767 Alyson Whelan (R): 761
Board of Education (to fill 2-year vacancy) Robert Ferretti (D): 1084 Suzanne Sutch (R): 848
Assessment Appeals Board Heidi Degree (D): 1026 Jonathan Lambert (R): 769
Library Trustees Donna Mingrone (D): 1118 Jennifer Phillips (R): 896 Kevin Brewer (R): 981 Lori Sanfratello (WI): 6
Ethics Commission Nancy Cohn (D): 985 Joshua Rutty (D): 921 Eileen B. Richard (R): 731 Dale Winchell (R): 791
Ethics Commission (Alternate) Andrew Schmitz (D): 988 Margo Hilfinger Elliott (R): 757
Ethics Commission (Alternate) Kate Webb (D): 986 Elizabeth M. Schofield (R): 760
Agent of School Deposit Fund Thomas W. Lindner (R): 1213
Regional Board of Education Keri Maclean (D): 1040 Robert J. Palumbo III (R): 752
Katherine Cryder (D): 1336
Weekend Wiggle Worms The Essex Library offers Weekend Wiggle Worms, an added session of Wiggle Worms, the library's regular Tuesday story time. Weekend Wiggle Worms is a playbased music and movement story time for children ages 3 and younger and their caregivers. Siblings are welcome. Weekend Wiggle Worms takes place at the Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, at 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays through Nov. 29 (no session Nov. 15). For more information or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560.
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COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
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Home for the Holidays: Sweet Treats For an appointment to meet these stunning beauties, apply online at Five-month-old Spreckles and Pickles www.forgottenfelinesct.org. were rescued along with their sibling, b Bubbles, on the property of a shoreline Holiday Wreath Sale Forgotten Felines will be holding the home. Without a mom around, the kittens were scavenging for food until a caring annual holiday wreath sale fundraiser at person started to feed them and a friend 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook, on Satcalled Forgotten Felines to rescue these urday, Nov. 29, (one date only) from 11 babies. Spreckles is a beauty to behold. a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a selection of She is a stunning long-haired tabby with a wreaths, swags and more. For more infordistinct orange marking on her head. She mation, contact 860-669-1347 or loves to play with her siblings and be held fundraising@forgottenfelinesct.org. like a baby, and also enjoys being brushed b and cuddled. Pickles, a gray and white Find Your Match at Forgotten Felines Forgotten Felines holds an open house long-haired tabby, is a little more shy, but can be petted and loves to play. Are you every Saturday from 11:00 am-2:00 pm at the lucky person to welcome these bonded 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No siblings into your home for the holidays? appointment is necessary.
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • COMMUNITY NEWS
Mirroring State, Democrats Dominate in Chester By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer
The Town of Chester on Election Day in 2025 saw a big day for the Democratic Party, from the top of the ticket all the way down, Democrats swept all contested races amongst themselves and the Democratic Party. Democratic Town Committee Chair Erik Anderson sees this election as a roaring success for the Democratic Party, and appreciates those who exercised their right to vote. “We didn’t just run on outreach or turnout, we ran on trust,” Anderson said. “Chester voters know their local Democrats, they see us at the schools, on the fields, and in the community every day. That’s the foundation that turned engagement into success.” Republican Town Committee Chair Meredith Devanney said that despite the amount of success the Democratic Party had in this election, she is still proud of the people who ran for the Republican Party, and felt that national politics may have played a role in this race. “We are really happy with some of the numbers that we were able to pull in this
election,” Devanney said. “I think it’s too early to tell what we could have done better, but it seemed like national politics played a role in local politics this time around.” Below are the results of the 2025 Municipal Election in Chester according to the Secretary of State Office. Winners are in BOLD *Note: The race between Ronald Trapani (R) and Michael Saunders (CGP) for Planning & Zoning Commission (Alternate to Fill Vacancy for Two Years) is currently being recounted, meaning that result is not yet official.
First Selectman Cynthia Lignar (D): 864
Selectman Patricia Bandzes (D): 657 Paul Radicchi (R): 425
Town Clerk Kathryn Hair (D): 805 Kathryn Hair (R): 267
Notice of Decision NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Planning and Zoning Commission at their regular meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 via in-person and virtual meeting, took the following actions: -
-
PZC #25-13 Site Plan under Section 45-1 of the Essex Zoning Regulations for the change of use from commercial to mixed use, to allow a two-bedroom apartment within Unit 1A and a studio apartment in Unit 2A at 190 Westbrook Road Essex. Applicant: David Bikerman Owner: Sunny Day Old Saybrook LLC APPROVED CGS Section 8-24 regarding project at Greider Field, 72 Plains Road Essex, for municipal uses and public safety. POSITIVE REFERRAL
Details of these decisions can be found at the Land Use Office at Town Hall 29 West Avenue Essex CT. Chairman Russ Smith
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ESSEX ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, by in person meeting at Town Hall (see agenda on Town’s website www.essexct.gov for further details), at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following applications: Application No. 25-10 on behalf of Paul Eddy and Elizabeth Normen, 12 Maple Avenue Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 5, VR District, requesting variances of Sections 40C, 40D, 40E, 40I.1, 50C.2 and 50D for the construction of a dormer on the existing non-conforming building located within the side yard setback. Application No. 25-11 on behalf of Jared Novinski, 25 New City Essex, CT, Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 44, VR District, requesting variances of Sections 40C, 40D, 40E, 40I.1, 40I.2, and 50C.2 for the reconstruction of a carport within the front yard setback.
Board of Finance (Full Term)
Planning & Zoning Commission (Alternate)
John Chillock (R): 581 Philip B. Reynolds (R): 556
Marlene Reynolds (R): 556
Board of Finance (To Fill Vacancy for Four Years)
Planning & Zoning Commission (Alternate to Fill Vacancy for Four Years)
John Connelly (D): 731 John P. O’Hare (R): 321
John Guthrie (D): 823
Board of Finance (To Fill Vacancy for Two Years) Meredith Park Devanney (R): 574
Board of Finance (Alternate Full Term) Justin Kronholm (D): 828
Board of Finance (Alternate to Fill Vacancy for Four Years) Bria Gilbert (D): 823
Board of Education Jillian K. Zupan (D): 778 Maria Scherber (D): 718 Jihan Schulte (D): 683 Wendy Calamari King (R): 394 Jennifer Blalock (R): 342
Board of Assessment Appeals Brian Dailey (D): 751 Ron Amara (R): 311
Planning & Zoning Commission (Full Term) Henry Krempel (D): 764 Rebecca Mead (D): 759 Jonathan S. Tobin (D): 755 Ron Amara (R): 322 Mark Fishkind (R): 321
Planning & Zoning Commission (To Fill Vacancy for Two Years)
Zoning Board of Appeals (Full Term) Aaron Zain (D): 665 Robert Blair (R): 473 John Chillock (R): 456
Zoning Board of Appeals (Alternate Full Term) Marlene Reynolds (R): 551
Zoning Board of Appeals (Alternate to Fill Vacancy for Two Years) Carolyn Kane (R): 545
Library Trustees (Full Term) Abigail J. Rice (D): 839
Library Trustees (To Fill Vacancy for Four Years) Susan Wright (D): 832
Regional Board of Education (Full Term) Douglas Mahana (D): 684 Wendy Calamari King (R): 366
Regional Board of Education (To Fill Vacancy for Four Years) John Harris (D): 730 John P. O’Hare (R): 310
Carlie Dailey (D): 837
M
Middletown Adult Education English Language Classes Credit Diploma Program GED Program Enrichment Classes Serving YOUR town at these locations:
Copies of the application are on file in the Town Clerk’s Office and Land Use Department at Essex Town Hall and can be viewed on the Town’s webpage.
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Carey Duques, Land Use Official
www.maect.org
(860) 343 - 6044
COMMUNITY NEWS • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Kim Gallagher: The Sound of Music Continued from page 2 and the sounds all blend together. Lovely music,” she says. The New Horizons band at CMS in which Kim plays clarinet on Mondays and alto saxophone on Thursdays is part of a national organization devoted to providing musical opportunities for older instrumentalists who may have played in their youth or who finally have time to learn how to play an instrument they long thought about. The clarinet, the instrument her father had played, was Kim’s first instrument. She started lessons in seventh grade and played in her first band in eighth grade. She couldn’t start earlier because the family moved regularly to accommodate her father’s job as a mining engineer. Kim bought her first saxophone some 30 years ago. “I thought saxes were cool and I really liked the sound they made,” she says. But she didn’t really begin to practice for the musical groups she now plays in until last November. Kim graduated from high school a year early at 16 and went on to the University of Alabama. Her roots were southern, and given her youth, her parents wanted her to be near family. Kim was a walk-on for Alabama’s noted marching band and also played in its symphonic band. She can’t remember what she played or how well she played it. She recalls there were over 50 clarinets in the band, and out on the football field if one person made a mistake, it was not really detectable. After graduating from college with a degree in biology and chemistry, Kim earned her master’s degree in chemistry at Clemson University and then decided, she would try the business world. She worked as a chemist first for a company in South Carolina and then for General Electric. After several moves within GE, she ended up in Connecticut, now a mother with two children. She stayed home while the children were small but ultimately decided to return to her professional career, but with a difference. “I reinvented myself,” she says. The reinvention meant she went back to school, this time to qualify as a high school teacher through the state’s
Alternate Route to Certification. She taught biology, advanced biology, and AP biology at Nathan Hale-Ray High School in East Haddam, and then, biology, chemistry, and environmental field biology at Old Saybrook High School. The field biology included projects like water testing outside the classroom. “I was shifting to water stuff,” Kim explains. She worked part-time as an instructor on the boat that hosts Project Oceanology in New London, and also volunteered with beluga whales at the Mystic Aquarium. The job included preparing the whales’ food, feeding them from the pails of fish, and, necessarily but not glamorously, scooping their droppings out of the water. Ultimately, Kim decided to go back to school for oceanography, earning her doctorate at the University of Connecticut, Avery Point. Kim’s studies were not the problem; what followed was. She was the oldest graduate in the program. She was told that in her fifties, she would never find a permanent job. “That was right,” she says. After a post-doctoral year at the University of California at Irvine, she found a number of adjunct positions, but never full faculty status or benefits. She describes the professional situation as “the murky world of an adjunct professor.” Her last position was at Quinnipiac University where she taught freshman chemistry. She liked her students, she liked teaching, but trying to teach a laboratory science course electronically through virtual labs during Covid was, as she describes it, “a nightmare.” Now retired, Kim is a golfer, and a grandmother with ambitions to bring music to another generation of her family. She has just bought a digital piano and invested in lessons for her six-year-old granddaughter. “I want her to come to concerts too, to know how people make music,” she says. b
Old Lyme Town Band Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, Old Saybrook Tickets at the box office or online: The Kate.org
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Louie Listens The Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, continues with Louie Listens, a program that allows children to read with a licensed therapy dog. Louie Listens takes place Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 5:15 p.m. Parents and guardians can register their children to read for a 15-minute period to Louie the Labrador, a local licensed therapy dog. For more information or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
860-388-0849 • principal@saintjohnschool.org 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook • www.saintjohnschoolos.org
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Sports
VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • SPORTS
Valley Courier Valley Courier Thursday, November 13, 2025
Valley Girls’ Soccer Uses Teamwork and Chemistry to Claim Shoreline Conference Title
By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor
The Valley girls’ soccer team went into this season with a goal of forming a familylike bond and using it to make big strides on the field along the way. The Warriors did exactly that, and the results they achieved paid off in ways they could’ve only dreamed of. After a 13-2-1 regular season in which the Warriors dominated a lot of their fellow conference foes, they entered the Shoreline Conference Tournament as the No. 2 seed with a bye in the quarterfinal round. After a 4-0 semifinal win over No. 3 Cromwell on Oct. 25, Valley took off for a championship game to remember vs. topseeded East Hampton. The Warriors again blanked the competition, walking away with a 3-0 win and hanging a championship banner. Head Coach Tessa Malcarne knew going into the season that if the Warriors developed an unbreakable bond, the sky was the limit. “We had many goals going into this season: to become a family, create a team environment every girl loved to be a part of, have great communication on and off the field, engage in dynamic play, to keep the ball at our feet and use our technical skill and talent to defeat opponents, to deepen the soccer community in the tritown area (with the Valley Soccer Club), win the Shoreline Conference Championship, win the State Class S Championship, (have good sportsmanship while doing that), and to have fun,” said Malcarne. “We accomplished these goals by being meticulous, by staying focused and working day in and day out on these goals, and by dedicating countless hours to our soccer skill/fitness/precision/etc. and to each other. We were the team that never stopped working regardless of the temperature, regardless of the weather, regardless of what was going on the next day or the day before. When we stepped onto that field, we locked in on our goals, and we worked diligently to achieve them. I remember one day, we practiced in a deluge. All of the other teams ended practice early, but we kept on playing. By the end
Photo courtesy of Emma Schultz
The Valley girls' soccer team celebrates its Shoreline Conference title along with its Valley Soccer Club youth players in Abigail Fryxell, Millie Phillips, Maisie DeBartolo, Reagan Abel, Evelyn Beta, and Morgan Fryxell.
of practice, we were so soaked that it felt like we had all jumped into a pool.” As the Warriors looked back on their conference title, they knew it didn’t come with a lack of hard work, something Malcarne continued to preach over the course of the season. Facing hardships and tough losses made the athletes stronger, both individually and as a club. “We grew as a team throughout the fall by watching the film from our games, and meticulously analyzing what we did well,
and what we could improve on. We would choose our next goals and focuses as a team, and then immediately begin to work towards them,” Malcarne said. “I remember how our first loss to East Hampton was an extremely important moment for us. We went into that game 6-0, thinking we would beat them with no issue. And it seemed like that was true when we scored one minute into the game. We also controlled that game, passed very well, we won 50/50 balls, and we hustled. However,
something was missing, and we ended up losing. That loss crushed us, but we were able to use it as fuel to make us stronger. That was a defining moment for us, where we began to really focus on our attacking game. This is one example of how we grew as a team, but there are many more. We used our wins and losses to inform us throughout the season, and allowed each to make us better. I am so proud of how See Valley page 11
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SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Valley Girls’ Soccer Uses Teamwork and Chemistry to Claim Shoreline Conference Title Continued from page 10 hard these girls have worked to become the team they are now. They are the hardest working high school team I have ever coached, and it shows when they step onto the field. They are truly incredible.” It had been years since Valley girls’ soccer had won a conference title, so being able to walk away with the hardware this fall made it even more special for Malcarne and her group. “The last time this title was won by a Valley girls’ team was in 2003, which was 22 years ago. It has been 22 years since we have won this title,” Malcarne said. “I, myself, was a senior and played on the first Valley girls’ team to ever win the Shoreline title, which was in 2002. The Valley girls won that title my senior year, and the year after I graduated, and then have not won it since, until this year. It’s truly incredible. For these girls to win Shorelines my first year coaching them was such a meaningful, full-circle moment for me.” Malcarne also added that being able to prove its dominance among its adversaries proved Valley’s ability to form such a strong group of players that was able to nail every piece of the formula that builds a winning environment. “This conference title also means that we accomplished many of the goals that we set for ourselves in the beginning of the season, and we are so proud of that,” added Malcarne. “Because, you know, you can be a really skilled, technical team, but you may be lacking in team chemistry, so you have trouble winning. Being a great team, a winning team, means you pull a ton of different elements together. It is a balance of cohesiveness, technicality, skill, passion, drive, team chemistry, emotional stability, trust, and heart. I believe working towards our common goals carried us here. The Shoreline conference is a highly competitive conference, so winning this title means even more as a result of how high the competition is here. We beat an undefeated team 3-0 in the finals of that championship, which is just incredible, and we are really proud of that.” Throughout the course of the season, the Warriors relied heavily on their captains to help keep the team chemistry strong, and to make everyone feel welcomed and valued. “Our captains are Payton McIntyre, Ella Smith, and Madelyn Riebold. All three of these girls are impactful leaders both on and off the field,” said Malcarne. “All three
of them are not only incredibly skilled and talented soccer players, but remarkable humans as well. These girls model for all of the other girls what it means to be a scholar-athlete, what it means to be kind, humble, hard-working, passionate, conscientious, and respectful. I could not have asked for a better trio to lead our team this year.” Each captain brings unique qualities to the table, and each one of them is kind and approachable, creating a strong sense of comfortability among their teammates. “Payton McIntyre is a diplomatic leader who leads by example, is a force on the field, and who does not give up. She is so gritty, persistent, technical, and so passionate about her job of being a leader, as well as being our center defensive midfielder. She feels such a responsibility to be a leader on both offense and defense, which is not an easy task, but she makes it look easy. That girl will have her foot on one sideline helping the offense attack, and then, 30 seconds later, have her foot touching the other sideline as she helps the defense defend the goal. She is truly remarkable to watch,” added Malcarne. “Ella Smith is such a positive role model to the rest of the girls on the team. She is always encouraging the younger girls to be their best selves, she models kindness, generosity, and a genuine interest in the wellbeing of our entire team. Ella is quick, she is smart, and she is a leading goal scorer on our team. Ella has scored for us in some pretty pivotal moments, including scoring the winning goal in our game against Coginchaug with something like 1.5 minutes left in the game. She has done this multiple times this season. Ella has been in some really challenging situations offensively and has come through with incredible goals that have made an immense difference in our season. Madelyn Riebold is tenacious, she is tireless, she is clever, and she plays her heart out on the field. Maddy leads our conference in goals for the season (22 as of right now), and leads the conference in all-time assists, which is 52 (as of right now). It’s incredible to see a number like 52 when looking at soccer statistics. Maddy controls the center of the field, along with Payton. She is so dynamic, makes really intelligent decisions, can score from far out, and is a workhorse. These captains are truly remarkable, and our team is incredibly fortunate to be under their leadership this year. We cannot wait to see what else they do in the state tournament!”
McIntyre was really proud of the fact that she was able to close out her senior soccer season winning a championship with her closest friends. She knows she’ll miss playing with them as their high school careers come to a close but is grateful for the memories she was able to create. “Winning this conference championship together is such a bittersweet moment,” McIntyre said. “Playing soccer for my whole life with these same girls since elementary school, and finally achieving the goal we’ve been working towards for our whole high school soccer careers is such a surreal moment. But at the same time knowing there’s no next year and this is the end to our journey gives me such mixed emotions! I’m just really grateful to leave a lasting legacy on this program, and I wouldn’t want to do it with anyone else!” While the captains certainly did their part to lead their team throughout the campaign, Malcarne also explained that it was a total team effort, with every single player stepping into bigger roles to help the team to reach its goals. “Every single player on this team contributed to the success of our team this season - our managers, our JV players, our athletic trainer, our athletic director, the extremely supportive parents of our players, the student body, and our Valley Soccer Club supporters,” Malcarne said. “Every single person who supported our team contributed to our success. All of our seniors did as well. Hannah Smith and Carly Sonn contributed greatly to the success of our team. Hannah is our right back. She is quick, technical, smart, makes incredible passes, sees the field really well, will make attacking runs, and has had some goals and assists in some pivotal games this year. She is a force to be reckoned with. Carly Sonn plays in the middle with Payton and Maddy, and over this season has been such a great contributor on offense with her tiny one-touches, her outside-of-the-foot pass, and her calm nature. Other contributors on the field this season were: Makaylah Spencer, Emma Reilly, Anne Keck, Lyla Lopez, Avery Soares, Sara Delouchry, Juliana Spencer, and Julianna Robinson.” Malcarne was sure to highlight the fact that the value that every single one of the girls provided was unmatched, and that every single athlete had the drive and desire to help the team succeed. “Makaylah Spencer is our “techy” forward who was named First Team AllShoreline this year. Makaylah is another
force to be reckoned with. She has such a unique style. She really helps us to slow down when we need to slow down, so we can get up into our attacking third of the field. Makaylah is tireless, she is passionate, and brings incredible color/creativity to our team,” said Malcarne. “Emma Reilly is our goalie who just had two shutouts in postseason play. She is incredibly strong, dynamic, hard-working, and reliable. Emma not only positions herself in order to make astonishing saves, she is also talented with her feet and can receive and distribute like a field player can. Anne Keck is our left back who is composed, poised, well-balanced, and technical. Whenever the game is getting a bit disorganized, all we need to do is get the ball to Annie, and she will reset it for us. She can take the bounciest ball out of the air with grace, and one-touch it to a teammate in the midfield. Lyla Lopez is our freshman forward/midfielder who has had some incredible moments this year! Lyla has scored in some really crucial moments and has become a confident, composed force on the field. It is not easy coming onto the field as a freshman and starting varsity, but Lyla has made it look easy. Avery Soares is one of our middle backs who is intuitive, intelligent, makes incredible tackles, and defends the net with such a passion. Avery will come out of nowhere and sweep the ball away from an opponent’s possession. She is also composed and makes intelligent decisions on the field. Sara Delouchry is our left midfielder who missed several games in the beginning of the season. She is technical, swift, has great soccer intelligence, and one heck of a shot. Sara scored the third goal in our Shoreline finals game. She took a high ball out of the air (from Hannah Smith) and cradled it with her foot so perfectly that it dropped right in front of her. She stepped around it to convince the defender that she was going right, and then touched left and scored a “banger” of a shot. It was absolute perfection. Juliana Spencer was our “utility” player who would play wherever we needed her. She has played all positions this year and has made it look easy to be that adaptable. We are so grateful to her for being such a tireless workhorse and being so malleable and agreeable to play wherever we needed. Jules is quick, she is smart, and intuitive. Her one touches are beautiful, and she has this way of getting herself into the right positions at the right See Valley page 13
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • SPORTS
Madison Hoop Dreams to Hold Black Friday Basketball Camp By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor
The day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, is one of the most popular basketball day camps offered by Madison Hoop Dreams (MHD). Players can burn off the extra calories consumed on Thanksgiving, and parents get to take advantage of the Black Friday shopping bargains for Christmas or just relax. With recreation and travel teams underway, players get a full day of instruction and competition to sharpen their skills. MHD draws from 15 towns which increases the level of competition and fun. If teammates register, MHD will try to keep them together. However, sometimes trades are necessary to keep the games competitive. Players in grades 3 through 8 enjoy playing games for most of the day. One highlight will be the guest speaker, and the cost is $60 for the
six-hour camp. The coaches from their summer camps are home for Thanksgiving, so the athletes will have an excellent staff led by coaches Bobby Moore and Tyler Boris. MHD will have a concession stand with drinks, snacks, and pizza from Grand Apizza ($2.50/slice) for lunch. However, players are also welcome to bring those items from home. Parents are encouraged to share this information with friends and to invite teammates to join their kids. It should be a great day of basketball and a chance for players to develop their confidence and enhance their love of the sport. At the Polson Middle School gym in Madison, the capacity is 120 players. Please call or text Coach Bill Barker at 203-494-6905 with any questions, or email him at wab6933@gmail.com.
Schedules b
b
Boys’ Soccer
Volleyball
Saturday, Nov. 15 or Sunday, Nov. 16: Class S State Friday, Nov. 14 or Saturday, Nov. 15: Class S State Tournament Finals Tournament Finals b
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Girls’ Soccer
Girls’ Swimming and Diving
Saturday, Nov. 15 or Sunday, Nov. 16: Class S State Sunday, Nov. 16: State Open Swimming ChamTournament Finals pionship at Yale at 11 a.m. Photo courtesy of Valley Regional Athletics
b
b
Saturday, Nov. 15: Class S State Tournament Finals at Wethersfield
Friday, Nov. 14: at Stafford, East Windsor, Somers at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20: at Coventry/Windham Tech/Bolton at 6:30 p.m.
Field Hockey
Football
HIGH
Tides ESSEX
Nov. 13 to Nov. 19
Day 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
A.M. 5:30 6:33 7:25 8:09 8:48 9:26 10:03
P.M. 5:58 6:55 7:45 8:29 9:10 9:50 10:30
The Valley boys' and girls' soccer teams and their Boosters recently donated $600 from snack shack sales to the Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Fund.
Valley Soccer Teams Donate Profits to Cancer Fund Brodeur Breast Cancer Fund. The teams continue to show generosity and commitment to supporting the community in The Valley boys’ and girls’ soccer teams many different ways, making a difference and their Boosters recently donated $600 to those in need. from snack shack sales to the Terri By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor
13
SPORTS • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Valley Girls’ Soccer Uses Teamwork and Chemistry to Claim Shoreline Conference Title Continued from page 11 time. Julianna Robinson is another one of our middle backs who is a total beast on defense. Julianna will come out of nowhere to make a clean tackle and will then get possession and pass it cleanly to one of her teammates. Julianna is technical, she is dynamic, creative, and a force. She is such an anchor in our defense.” Riebold ended the regular season with 22 goals and eight assists. Spencer ended the regular season with 12 goals and 16 assists, Ella Smith ended the regular season with 21 goals and three assists, and Reilly had 10 shutouts. The main defense, Hannah Smith, Keck, Soares, McIntyre, and Robinson, all contributed hugely to the shutouts. Sara Delouchry missed seven games, yet still came away with eight goals and six assists and scored a goal in the Shoreline Championship game. Freshman Lopez had eight goals and one assist. McIntyre had six goals, Sonn had three goals and one assist, and Spencer recorded three goals and two assists. Hannah Smith also contributed with three goals and one assist, and Keck scored two goals. “I want to especially recognize the defense for their skilled play because defense does not get taken into consideration when looking at stats. Without our defensive line, we could not have scored the amount of goals we scored this season,” said Malcarne. “They are the anchor of our team. In total, our team scored 98 goals this season, and we are looking forward to scoring many more! Madelyn Riebold, Payton McIntyre, and Makaylah Spencer were all All-Shoreline First Team this year. Ella Smith and Hannah Smith were All-Shoreline Second Team, and Emma Reilly was honorably mentioned.” Riebold, who was a top performer on the field and a great captain off of it, was proud of the way her team stayed focused all season long, and everybody put in the work needed in order to achieve a common goal. “We began playing on June 17 of this year together. Since then, soccer is the No. 1 thing in all of our minds. We practice all of the time and work effortlessly, hoping that all of this hard work will pay off at the end of the season, when we get to the shoreline and state tournament,” Reibold said. “Knowing that the hard work paid off, it means the world to us. All of the things we think will not lead us to success,
led us to success. It really proves that you need to have the mentality and drive to be successful, and it’s a great feeling you have once you realize everything came together.” When reflecting on the special group of players she had in front of her, Malcarne was sure to acknowledge the athletes who showed support from the sidelines, even when they weren’t playing consistently. Their encouragement for their teammates helped to uplift everybody on a daily basis. “Our JV players saw a good amount of varsity time as well, but when they were not on the field, they were cheering their hearts out on the bench. They are a force to be reckoned with, and we could not have done it without them,” said Malcarne. “They scream their hearts out in support of the girls on the field and are so encouraging and loyal. The thing I love the most about this team is that it does not matter whether you are a varsity player or a JV player, you are seen, valued, respected, and cherished regardless. These girls treat each other as equals, and it is really heartwarming to see. To have 24 high school girls who have that much respect and admiration for each other, that is not easy to achieve. I feel so fortunate to have a team with girls who are not only talented soccer players, but amazing human beings as well. Anybody who meets them and knows them agrees! The bus after games is one of my favorite situations to see. These girls mix and mingle with one another and have the greatest time with each other, regardless of who played on the field that day.” The Shoreline Conference is always stacked with tough adversaries, and Malcarne knew that was the case going into the season. She and the girls didn’t let that phase them, and instead embraced the challenges with open arms. “We came into this season knowing there would be a ton of competition in the Shoreline Conference. There always is. We stepped up to this challenge by working tirelessly to improve ourselves technically, to improve our touch, and to perfect our game,” Malcarne explained. “Another challenge we faced was once we started winning, there was pressure to keep winning. There were high expectations of us. We overcame that challenge by continuing to stay humble, and anchor into our values. We continued to work hard every single day at our goals and never thought of
ourselves as being above any other team. We also talked a ton about staying grounded and overcoming fears within ourselves. I worked with them on this each day in different ways. I have forgotten most of what this feels like by now, but it was also a challenge coming into this season as a new coach to this team. I knew none of these girls in June. I knew I had to get to know them quickly, but also, to get to know them genuinely and authentically. We worked on our team connection so much this summer by, yes, working hard at practice, but also playing games and bonding. I am so grateful to them for letting me in, and trusting me to lead them this season. I could not have asked for a better group, and I genuinely mean that. Another challenge we faced were a few early injuries that resulted in one of our players not being able to play against some really big teams. The girls who stepped in had to fill some pretty big shoes, and that they did. We are so proud of them and so grateful to them. They rose to the occasion. The last challenge I will mention is the challenge of being adaptable to other teams. We play “our” game, and we know that game well. These girls play the beautiful game of soccer the way it is meant to be played. It was challenging to play against teams that played more of a “kick and run” style because it had a tendency to take us out of “our” game. But we came together and created a plan for this and then worked tirelessly to achieve the goal of being adaptable to other team’s styles. We held ourselves accountable for stepping up to that task, and we did.” Malcarne knew her team was special when it walked away with wins against a couple of really tough opponents in the Shoreline Conference. The way the girls responded to tough competition and developed intro strong leaders off the field made her really proud to be their coach. “The biggest highlights of the regular season were beating the top teams in the Shoreline Conference, including Coginchaug, Morgan, Cromwell, and Portland. We had shutouts against Cromwell and Portland, where Emma Reilly and our defense worked persistently and diligently to protect our goal,” said Malcarne. “Obviously winning the Shoreline Championship was a highlight for us, but every game was a highlight because we got to experience each game together, and put all of our hard work into practice. The biggest
highlight has been watching these young ladies become a family, to see them being role models to the younger Valley Soccer Club players, and to watch them accomplish their goals.” As Valley continues to celebrate its conference title, it also knows that the job isn’t finished. The outlook going into the state tournament is to continue to remain locked in and give 100%. The Warriors know they can’t take their feet off the gas or lose sight of the ultimate goal. As the No. 2 seed in Class S, the Warriors earned a bye in the first round. In the second round on Nov. 4, the team hosted No. 15 Wheeler and won 7-0. In a hard-fought quarterfinal matchup on Nov. 8, the Warriors played host to No. 10 Morgan and fell 2-1 in a two-overtime game in which the Huskies won 4-2 in penalty kicks. In the quarterfinals, Delouchry scored for the Warriors, and Ella Smith had the assist. Reilly had seven saves in net. Despite the season coming to a close earlier than they had hoped, the Warriors can look back on the campaign with pride knowing they fought hard until the very end and established an unbreakable bond. “The team is ready to give their all this entire tournament. The girls know they cannot let up. The seniors are ready to play their hearts out, given this is their last tournament together, and the rest of the team wants to take their seniors all the way for their last season. The team is ready to go,” Malcarne added. “They want to go in with skill, intellect, precision, with their “techy” ways, and with their family mentality. This team is ready to exemplify what it means to be a family both on and off the field, and they are ready to do so in these last four games we will play. They are ready to bring ‘team connection’ to a new level, where they will show how individual skill combined with love and respect for one another can create incredible chemistry on a soccer field. We’ve built a culture of all of the girls being able to be themselves - that they are able to be themselves without fearing judgment. When they are at soccer, they are genuinely happy. That’s a hugely important piece of what makes our team so special, and what has gotten us to this point. These girls are vulnerable with each other, they are goofy, they can be serious and share what is on their heart, etc. We have created an environment that is a happy, joyful place to be.”
Legals Business Directory
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 Instructions
Employment
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I do the small & medium jobs the other are too busy to do. Ref’s & Insured
Marine/— 860-388-0175 Boats
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ntiques/ A Collectibles/Art STOP MONTHLY ROUTER Real FEES! Estate NETGEAR Router Compatible with Comcast $40 Text: 860-215-0951
OLD CLOTHES IN THE ATTIC OR EXTRA CLOSET? I’m looking for vintage women’s clothing from the 1920s-1980s. Dresses, coats, belts, hats, anything special or unique. Happy to pay cash and give your old treasures a new life! Please call 203-530-0197
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Including, Games, Toys, Video Games, Housewares, Records, Baseball Cards, Comic Books, Music CDs, DVDs, Decorative Items, Collectibles, Vintage Books, Adult and Kids Clothes, and much, much more. Something for everyone! —
Wanted to Buy WANTED TO BUY Old Records Purchased 12” LPs and 7” 45 rpm only. No 10” 78s. 203-710-9943
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Since 1981 38 Years Exp. Since 1981 38 Years Exp.
partments/ A Unfurnished 2 BED / 1 BATH DUPLEX IN CLINTON Large deck, kitchen & living room. Heat & hot water incld No pets, no smoking First, last & security needed $2,200/month w/ 1 year lease 860-662-0555 — North Branford For Rent 2 bdrm, living room, kitchen, porch, all appliances incl washer/dryer. On Rte 139. No pets, no smoking. $1,700 Call Dave (203)401-1476 —
OLD LYME IN VILLAGE MANSION VERY SPACIOUS 1BR. BEAUTIFUL VIEWS OF GARDENS & GROUNDS. GLEAMING HARDWOOD FLOORS, PERIOD MOLDINGS, BRICK FIREPLACE. WASHER & DRYER IN UNIT! DOG OR CAT UNDER 25LBS WELCOME $2,494 / INCLUDES HEAT, HOT WATER & GARAGE. 860-917-1898 (Credit/background check)
OLD LYME, RARE FIND IN VILLAGE MANSION. 1800 SQ. FT 2 BR 1.5 BATH APT. EXQUISITE ORIGINAL MOLDINGS AND PARQUET FLOORS. FEATURES 18x18 FT LIVING RM AND 18x18 FT DINING RM. $3,495 INCLUDES HEAT, HT WATER, ELECTRIC & GARAGE. 860-917-1898 (Credit/ background check)
S torage/ Warehouse
S torage/ Warehouse
AUTO STORAGE
community
has the
KEYS
to your new vehicle or home! WHERE
BUYERS & SELLERS CONNECT
800.582.8296 or visit
zip06.com
—
Climate controlled auto storage located In Essex CT area. 3, 6, and 12 month rentals available. Call Eric 860-662-6151
T. Robert’s Construction, LLC T. Robert’s Construction, From Design To CompletionLLC From Design To Completion Lic #563264
Fully Insured
(203) 507-6902 • Branford, CT Fully Insured Lic #563264 (203) 507-6902 • Branford, CT
SKY CITY
MR. FIX IT
HOME IMPROVEMENT, LLC
DECKS! DECKS! DECKS! BUILDING & REPAIR
Power Washing & Painting
(203) 392-4516
Guilford, CT. Licensed & Insured
Free Estimates HIC # 0646127
d239532 d239532
Legals
Estimates
classifieds
OLD LYME IN VILLAGE MANSION. ONE OF A KIND 3,300+ SQ FT APARTMENT. 3 BRS & 5 BA (3 FULL / 2 HALF). 4 GAS FIREPLACES, ORIGINAL MARBLE. KITCHEN FEATURES GRANITE, EAT-IN KITCHEN, 2 DISHWASHERS, 2 SINKS, NEW REFRIGERATOR. PRIMARY BEDROOM FEATURES HIS AND HERS BATHS. LARGE DINING ROOM & LIVING ROOM W/ 12 FT CEILINGS. HUGE TV ROOM & SUN PORCH. LARGE DECK OVERLOOKING ROSE GARDEN. PRIVATE BLUESTONE PATIO $5,495/MO INCLUDES HEAT, HOT WATER & ELECTRIC CAT OR SMALL DOG WELCOME (860)917-1898 FULL BACKGROUND CHECK FOR CREDIT
Additions • Dormers • Decks Basements Roofs • Rip Jobs Additions ••Dormers • Decks Build Up or Build OutJobs Basements • Roofs • Rip All! Out BuildWe UpDo or It Build We Do It All!
SM SM
Basement Waterproofing Services Financial 50 Years combined experience. Financial Egress Windows, Foundation Repair, Sump Pumps, Pumps Eliminated in most homes. Crawl Spaces, Gravity Drains, Landscaping Drainage, Gutter Downspout Drains • Mold Remediation Legals
FREE s
GUILFORD RENTAL 1 bed / 1 bath Open floor plan w/deck Unfurnished Private county setting, short drive to town No pets, no smoking $1500/month + utilities Call 203-641-7714
partments/ A Unfurnished
assif ie
AD r
cr
e ato
BUILDING & REMODELING
Brilliant Basement Waterproofing, LLC
partments/ A Unfurnished
Wanted to Buy
SEASONED HARDWOOD
DEEP RIVER ESTATE/ MOVING SALE
G’S TREASURES SENSATIONAL AUCTION Saturday, 11/15 Old Saybrook VFW Preview: 1:00, Early Bird: 4:00, Auction: 4:30 See auction.com ID 39531
Merchandise
Coal/Wood/Fuels
d
BRAZILIAN CLEANING SERVICE
Employment Residential & Commercial
Real Estate
cl
Announcements Announcements
HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTING
Kitchens • Bathrooms Basement Plumbing • Electrical I Will Call Back!
I Will Call Back!
203-245-2592 203-458-8222
www.mrfixitllc.com
Stephen S. Simonetti Licensed & Insured Lic. #578530
Repairs • Remodeling Repairs • BUILDING Remodeling ALL TYPES OF REPAIRS
$50.00 per hour REPAIRS ALL TYPES OF BUILDING $50.00• Doors per hour Carpentry • Locks Windows Carpentry••Stairs Doors• •Closets Locks Decks • Drywall Windows • Stairs••Painting Closets Decks • Drywall • Painting Small jobs are fine
Small jobs are fine Jim 203-530-2670 LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590 Jim 203-530-2670 LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590
VALLEY COURIER • CLASSIFIEDS • 15
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 CLEANING SERVICES BUILDING & REMODELING
Casanova Builders, LLC
ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS DOORS GUTTERS FAMILY TRADITION SINCE 1955 DECKS
Shoreline Deck Company, LLC
Since 1956
Making Ideas Happen
Addition • Decks • Flooring • Attic/Basement Remodeling Finish Carpentry • Custom Ceramic, Marble & Granite Tile Work & Counter Tops • Total Custom Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Interior & Exterior Painting Lic. #561417 ~ Insured ~ Work Guaranteed
860-552-6027
203-444-6297
Additions, Bathrooms, Pergolas, Pool Houses, Pavilions, Outdoor Kitchens
Joseph Casanova Jr.
J&P RESTORATION General Contractor
• J.A. Petrillo - Owner • Siding • Windows Roofing Siding Remodeling Sheet Rock • • • Gutters Additions Bathrooms • Siding • Repairs • Siding Kitchens Paper Hanging • Windows • Windows24MO 0% OR 860-230-0853 Garages PaintingRI • Gutters • Gutters $500 OFF Masonry Plumbing Decks Electrical • Repairs • Repairs Gutters Windows 860-230-0853 860-230-0853 24MO24MO 0% OR 0% OR RI RI $500$500 OFF OFF 860.230.0853 CT
Please call for a free design consultation & estimate
203-453-2333
www.shorelinedeck.com | chris@shorelinedeck.com
HIC.0547261
CLEANING SERVICES
Home & Business Cleaning info@geniemaids.com
Reg #43858
Reg #0654527
*credit terms apply 24 mo 0%
CT
Reg #0654527
CT
Reg #0654527
www.jfkroofing.com * credit terms apply
CT
Reg #0654527
Reg #43858
Reg #43858
203-982-5436
*credit terms apply 24 mo 0% 24 mo 0% *credit terms apply
RI
Reg #43858
CONSTRUCTION
F&A
CONSTRUCTION LLC ALL HOME IMPROVEMENTS HOME REPAIRS & MORE! Serving Shoreline and New London County
Stain& Commercial Decks! DECK RESTORE WeResidential Sanding/Refinishing Softwash House Cleaning
Complete Power Washing
Free Estimates beautify your home.
Decks, Fences, Houses, Concrete Affordable Rates • Free Estimates Call for an Appointment We also do Interior Painting
203-996-4981 Brian
DRYWALL
Carrier Drywall
Drywall Specialist Over 40 years experience • Hanging • Textured Ceilings • Taping
Decks, Fences, Houses, Concrete
Quality Hand Staining
Mike 203-589-0442
I’m French Canadian! I’m not saying I know it all, but when it comes to drywall, give me a call.
Lic #0633727
DUMPSTER REMOVAL
860-575-0656
F&A
DUMPSTERS
Community
SERVING SHORELINE AND NEW LONDON COUNTY
203-245-1877 Ext. 6130 860-701-4200
ELECTRICAL
License #ELC.0203098-E1 Fully Insured
ACCEPTING CREDIT CARD
in print every week & online every day at zip06.com
203-623-4087
carrierdrywall.com Marc Geoghegan
FREE Est. | Fully Insured OR 860-961-0356
Jeisi Robles (203) 572-7483
HOUSES - CONDOS - OFFICES
DRYWALL
DECKS
licensed /insured HIC #0678344
ROBLES CLEANING SERVICE
E-mail: jeise24@hotmail.com
HIC.0560655
Decks/Hardwood Floors Decks Cleaned/Repaired/Sanded &Power Stained • Hardwood Floors Washing of Homes Patios & Walkways Power Washed Protect your investment,
Free Estimates - References Over 10 Years Experience
CALL US AT:
860-961-0356
ACCEPTING CREDIT CARD
Remodeling/Additions Kitchens, Baths, Finished Basements Generators and Service upgrades Troubleshooting • Free Estimates
860.331.9901
4gelectricct@gmail.com • fb.me/4GElectric
Daniel Brown Electric LLC • New Construction • Generators Chargers • Remodeling/ • Car Landscape Lighting Additions • Pools • Service Upgrades • Troubleshooting • Kitchens • Baths • Finished Basements
860-399-4444
CT License #199056-E1 Licensed & Fully Insured P.O. Box 221, Westbrook, CT 06498
16 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 EXCAVATING
GUTTER CLEANING
CLUTTER IN THE GUTTER
EXCAVATION DEMOLITION & SITE PACKAGES Building Lots Cleared and Developed Site Excavation for New Homes, Additions & Garages Septic Systems, Utilities Trenching
The Original
FOUNDATIONS & CONCRETE WORK
Complete Site Work - Paving - Driveways Mulch, Stone, Screened Topsoil,
Foundations & Concrete Work Additions, Garage Foundations Barns, Slabs & Structural Piers Retaining Walls
Owner/ Operator Scott Behler
SEAWALL & DOCK CONSTRUCTION
Sand & Gravel House Sites, Septic Systems, Demolition
Seawall Masonry Repointing Boulder and Revetment Stone Dock Repairs & Pile Installations.
HIC #0634550
No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large
Why Hire 3 Contractors When K.E.Braza Construction Handles The Entire Site Process?
Water Mains, Sewers 756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT
• We Demo We Dig and We Pour your Foundation 1 Contractor 1 Price • Make The Call This Fall, Get it Done Before Next Season Direct: 860-662-0124 | Office: 860-399-5290
www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665
25 Year Family Business Proudly Serving Connecticut Shoreline
Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters Roof Repairs • Handyman Services Power Washing • Roof Washing Black Stains & Algae Removal Prompt Courteous Service, Done on Time
www.KEBrazaConstruction.com GUTTERS
203-530-7191
SEAMLESS GUTTERS PLUS
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
203-466-0520
• Residential/ Commercial • Irrigation Installs/ Renovations
SEAMLESS GUTTERS
• Maintenance
• Installation • Repair • Cleaning • Roofing • Window Replacement • Remodeling • Gutter Gaurds • Siding
203-245-9448
SERVING MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW HAVEN COUNTY & FAIRFIELD COUNTY
• Spring Start Ups • Irrigation Winterizations Fully Licensed and Insured CT Lic# P1-0204385
Free Estimates 4 Gutters Cleaned JUNK REMOVAL 4 Repaired 203-421-5388 DUMPSTER RENTALS 4 Guards Installed Rent our 10yd 12yd 15yd 20yd & 30yd Dumpsters 4 Powerwww.callateam.com Washing, Our New EZ- 8yder Low Sided Dumpster. *Perfect for the small projects* Roofs & Windows
LANDSCAPING FRESH EGGS
The CT handyman LandsCaping LLC
Quality -Dependable -Trustworthy
Commercial & Residential
203-421-5388 www.callateam.com
Locally Owned and Operated Family Business
LANDSCAPING
Riverview Landscaping Complete Storm & Fall Clean Ups Fall Clean Ups
Pile Roadside Pile Pickups Pick Ups Lawn Mowing Commercial & Residential
Storm Clean Up 860-388-3186 Riverview Landscaping 25 Years 860-388-3186 Complete StormExperience & Fall Clean Ups
HIC.0645729
28 Years Pile Experience Snow Plowing Roadside Pickups
Commercial Residential (Lower CT &River Area)
860-388-3186
HIC.0645729
25 Years Experience Snow Plowing (Lower CT River Area)
JUNK REMOVAL SERVICES
OFF SEASON DISCOUNTED RATES & RENTAL PERIODS
Rent Our Mobile Storage Units, Bigger than PODS ***Heavy Duty for Remodeling Projects 8ft x 14ft Units ** ***Winter Storage for your Summer Cottage Items*** Delivered Directly to your Site, Seasonal Rentals
Call for Current Rates
860-662-0124 7 Days a Week Service... 25 Years Serving CT Shoreline www.KEBrazaConstruction.com
860-767-0889
www.waterworksirrigations.com
“Your Clean Team Since Gutter Cleaning Roof1986” Cleaning - Power Washing
GREENGLOVESGUTTERS.COM
HIRE A VETERAN
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Green Gloves L Gutters, LC
“Your Clean Team since 1987”
Scott’s Gutter Fully Insured Cleaning
• General Waste Removal • Construction Debris • Sheetrock Demo • Shed and Deck Demo & Removal • Oil Tanks and Drums • Garage Cleanouts
We Donate & Recycle!
860-415-3313
www.thecleanoutcompanyllc.com
Tree Work - Mulching of Beds - Spring & Fall Clean Ups Weeding of Beds - Pruning of Shrubs – Firewood Deck Repairs - Landscape Design - Brush Hogging of Fields
860-490-0986 ask for Jim Licensed & Insured
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!
VALLEY COURIER • CLASSIFIEDS • 17
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 LANDSCAPING
LANDSCAPE SERVICES LLC
Serving All Shoreline Communities
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
FINANCING AVAILABLE
www.violalandscaping.com 860-635-1030 office@violalandscapingllc.com
Spring & Fall Clean Ups • Mowing Complete Lawn Maintenance Bed Design • Plant Installation Mulching • Retaining Walls Lawn Repair Sod and Seed Lawn Installation Is Our Specialty!
We Use Ryan Aeration and Slice Seeding Equipment Call for Free Estimates and Mowing Quotes!
203-481-2436
perfectturflandscapeservices.com www.perfectturfservices.com
Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • CONDO • Irrigation Systems Installs/Maintenance • Lawn & Landscape Maintenance • Fertilizing & Tick Control • Retaining Walls • Architectural Pavers: Poolside & Patios • New Lawn Installations: Sod Installs/Hydroseed • Excavations & Drainage • Landclearing/Foundation: Dozer Site Work • Dumpster Services Serving the Shoreline Area Since 1996
Call today for consultation (860) 767-2811 www.sullivanlawnservices.com FERT #B2547
CT HIC #0606162 CT Lic# P1-0204385
Lic. # 0653900
203.727.6405
Ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com
COUNTRY HILL LANDSCAPING Eric Werle • Guilford, CT 06437
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
203-457-0483
Fall Leaf Removal Full Lawn Service Walls & Walkways Spring Cleanup Mulch Work
SERVICING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1988
LEAF REMOVAL
Cutting Edge Lawn Care, LLC Serving the Shoreline
LEAF VACUUM SERVICE Rake Them...Leave Them... We’ll Take Them!
203-589-0385 MOVING & HAULING
NEED SOMETHING MOVED? “No Job Too Small”
Will do Dump Runs also. Call Luke at
203-464-0444
Tree Work Snow Plowing Planting Tractor Work Pruning
• Landscaping • Painting • Mowing • Trimming • Masonry Service • Mulching • Gutter Cleaning • Powerwashing • Small Tree Removal • Fall & Spring Clean-Ups
CHAMPLIN’S LANDSCAPING & EXCAVATION • Fall Clean Up • Snow Plowing • Shrub Pruning • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding SENIOR DISCOUNT
• Fence Repair • Gravel Driveways • Excavator Work • Shed Demolition • Junk Removal
860-510-3509
FULLY INSURED
MASONRY OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP
SOSOLI’S M AS O N RY, L LC HIC.0618942
Stone Walls • New Fireplaces Special Steps • Stone Design Swimming Pools • Sidewalks • Stucco Chimneys • Patio Bricks & Blocks Small & Large Jobs
10% OFF WITH THIS AD (exp. 4.30.25)
Specialized Masonry Work Owner on Every Job 30 Years Experience Free Estimates
Cell (203) 598-2524 www.greatmason.com
D. Masonry & Restoration
Father & Son Masonry
203. 469.6670
• Pointing & Brick • Caulking • Power Washing • Patios & Water Proof • Chimneys / Chimney Cleaning • Block • All Types of Masonry Work & Repair Lic. #616858
Accept Major Credit Cards
*Free Estimates*
PAINTING
VALENTINO VALENTINO PAINTING, PAINTING, L.L.C. L.L.C. Commercial Commercial & & Residential Residential Interior/Exterior Interior/Exterior Painting Painting Power Power Washing Washing -- Staining Staining Free Free Estimate/Fully Estimate/Fully Insured/Licensed Insured/Licensed CT 0702814 CT HIC.0578520 CTHIC. HIC.0578520
203-483-5590 203-483-5590 203-483-5590 203-645-8717 www.valentinopaintingllc.net www.valentinopaintingllc.net Valentinopaintingllc@yahoo.com
Over 30 years experience Specializing In:
Stonewalls, Seawalls, Special Steps, Patios, Sidewalks, Swimming Pools, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Belgium Block, Blue Stone Pavers, Stucco, Big & Small Jobs Welcomed We do it all! Serving the Shoreline with Pride Great Prices Italian Craftsmanship All Work Guaranteed Cell: 203-510-9162 - Jeff Office: 203-565-9079 - Jimmy
HIC.0571018 Fully Insured Free Estimates
18 • CLASSIFIEDS • VALLEY COURIER
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 PAINTING
POWERWASHING
Quality Work Since 1987
Gold Star Painting Specialists
M.A. PAINTING
MARTIN ARDOLINO CTHIC#0638601
Connecticut Shoreline
SERVICES
Since 1986
Dominic Bosco
office: 203-245-7144 cell: 203-444-3465 dominic@GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com www.GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com
Interior/Exterior • Minor Carpentry Popcorn Ceiling Removal Wallpaper Removal
RogeR CRampton RogeR CRampton c: 203.430.4194 • martinardolino@gmail.com
PLUMBING SERVICES
MBING l HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING
PRESSURE WASHING
SOFT WASHING
• Cement & Patios • Tennis Courts • Brick • Driveways • Walkways • Decks • Fence • Truck Fleet Washing
ROOFING
• House Washing • Roof Cleaning • Solar Panels • Cedar Wash
PLUMBING l HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING RogeR Rampton RogeR C ogeRC CRampton Rampton
RogeR NCERampton W I N S TA L L AT I O N S O R R E PA I R S
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20
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING
All Things Killingworth Holds Picnic, Raises $9K Press Release from All Things Killingworth
The All Things Killingworth town picnic once again brought the community together for a day of hometown fun, food, and generosity—raising an impressive $9,000 to support two local causes. Proceeds were split evenly between Deer Lake Outdoor Center and the Kelly Allard Leach Foundation for Children with Spinal Injuries, with each organization receiving $4,500. The donation to Deer Lake Outdoor Center will fund 11 weeks of summer camp scholarships, giving local children the chance to experience the adventure and connection that come from spending time outdoors. The Kelly Allard Leach Foundation will use its funds to continue supporting families navigating the challenges of childhood spinal injuries, carrying on its mission of compassion and resilience. “For us, hosting the picnic is about gratitude and giving back to a community that has been so supportive,” said Jenn Carroll, director of Deer Lake Outdoor Center. “By creating a space where local nonprofits and businesses can share their visions with a wider audience, we continue to fuel a culture of collaboration and remember we rise by lifting up others.” The 2025 picnic drew record crowds, with over 100 volunteers helping the day flow seamlessly. Guests enjoyed a full lineup of entertainment, including a Cowboy Valley tribute, the lively Sanderson Sisters Show from the movie Hocus Pocus, the Bubble Truck, and performances by School of Rock, Madison; PitchDrop; and the John Spignesi Band. Friendly competition filled the afternoon with a lip sync contest and cornhole tournament, while one of the most memorable moments came when A Place Called Hope released two rehabilitated red-tailed hawks back into the wild. “What makes the picnic so special is that it’s about more than
Photo courtesy of Killingworth Women's Organization
Photo courtesy of Killingworth Women's Organization
Amanda Brackett, presidnet of Killingworth Women’s Organization (KWO), presents a check to Jenn Carroll, director of Deer Lake Outdoor Center.
KWO President Amanda Bracket presents a check to Jonathan Leach and Sandy Allard for the Kelly Allard Leach Foundation for Children with Spinal Injuries.
Photo courtesy of Killingworth Women's Organization
Volunteers Lyla Ford and Brighton Ford with the Sanderson Sisters from the movie Hocus Pocus.
one day—it’s about what we can do together as a community to highlight and celebrate our volunteers and nonprofits in town,” said Janet Colandrea, one of the event organizers. “These proceeds will help kids discover the magic of camp and bring comfort to families who need it most. That’s what community looks like.” Local flavors were in full force with food from Fire in the Kitchen Pizza Truck, The Greenery, James Madison House, Sweet Emilia Ice Cream, and Cafe Laurel, and dozens of local artisans and nonprofits rounded out the day with shopping and community engagement. The event was made possible through the generous support of diamond and platinum sponsors, including Barrelhouse (diamond sponsor), School of Rock Madison, WJ Financial Advisors LLC, CleanStar Restoration, and Schumack Engineered Construction, and the event organizers, the Killingworth Women’s Organization, and Deer Lake Outdoor Center.
21
LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Calendar for the Week of November 13, 2025
For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website, www.zip06.com.
THURSDAY, NOV. 13 Next Wave: Young Professionals on the Shoreline Meet: Noon to 1 p.m. Via Zoom. Next Wave, the young professionals group for the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber, is open to anyone in the chamber, ages 21 to 40ish. For info, visit goschamber.com. Classics Book Group: 5 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Book: Blindness by Jose Saramago. Moderated by Essex Library Executive Director Ann Thompson. For info or to register (required to receive the Zoom link), email athompson@essexlib.org or visit youressexlibrary.org/adultservices/book-groups.
Literature Seminar Series: The River by Flannery O’Connor: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Third in a three-part seminar series covering a deep dive into three of Flannery O’Connor’s short stories. Presented by Tom Kelly, former English teacher at various local secondary schools. To obtain a copy of the short story, email Adult Services Librarian Elizabeth Reinhart at ereinhart@essexlib.org. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org. Home Alone: 6 to 7 p.m. Clinton Town Hall Annex, 48 E. Main St. For students in grades 4 and 5 and their parents or guardians. Co-presented by the Clinton Human Services, the Clinton Police Department, and the Clinton Volunteer Fire Department. For info or to register, email Shelby Mehmet at smehmet@clintonct.org. The Search for Truth and the Persistence of Love Across Time with Novelist Amanda Peters: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: The Berry Pickers: A Novel. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register
(required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. Concert by Moondance: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
FRIDAY, NOV. 14 Social Services Help Day and Food Truck: 9 to 9:45 a.m. Grace Episcopal Church, 336 Main St., Old Saybrook. Bring bags. For info, call the Old Saybrook Social Services at 860-395-3188. Tween Time: Ultimate Pickle Taste Test: 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 8 to 12. Participants sample a variety of pickles and pickle-flavored foods and rate them to crown the pickle champion. In celebration of National Pickle Day. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org. See page 22
The Season Brings Christmas Classics and Other Attractions Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater By Karen Isaacs Columnist
Aisle
An Ibsen Classic: James Bundy, artistic director of Yale Rep (and dean of the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale) is directing his last production at Yale; he will leave in June. He has chosen the Ibsen classic, Hedda Gabler, a play about a woman trapped by societal expectations and outdated ideas. It runs from Friday, Nov. 28, through Saturday, Dec. 20. Bundy describes it, and I agree, as “a play of extraordinary nuance and psychological sophistication.” Tickets are available at YaleRep.org. Holiday Theater Begins: Ivoryton Playhouse is kicking off the holiday season early with Playhouse Holiday Jamboree. The show opens Thursday, Nov. 20, and will run through Sunday, Dec. 21. (Goodspeed just began performances of its holiday show.) The original show is inspired by both classic radio shows and
old-time musical revues. It will feature songs, stories, folk tales, and even recipes. Songs will include many holiday favorites—both popular songs and carols. For tickets, visit IvorytonPlayhouse.org Added Performances: Goodspeed has added performances for White Christmas, which just began performances. Both matinee and evening performances have been added through Wednesday, Dec. 31. The tickets are bound to be snapped up. Contact Goodspeed.org. Shakespeare with Music: Tony winner Shaina Taub (for the score of Suffs) has adapted, with Laurie Woolery, the Shakespearean comedy, As You Like It, and added a folk-pop score. A typical Shakespeare comedy, it tells the story of, as the press material states, faithful friends, feuding families, and lovers in disguise. It runs through Saturday, Nov. 22,
ON THE
at the Connecticut Repertory Theater on the UConn campus in Storrs. Tickets are available at ConnecticutRep.UConn.edu. Russian Play at Yale: Utopia by modern Russian playwright Mikhail Durnekov is at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale. It runs Saturday, Nov. 15, through Friday, Nov. 21, at the Iseman Theater, 1156 Chapel Street, New Haven. The play is set in the early days of postSoviet Russia, where a barman tries to reopen his beloved bar, Utopia. For tickets, call 203-432-1234 or visit drama.yale.edu/ productions. No Broadway Strike: If you have tickets for a Broadway show, relax—the threat of strikes by Actor’s Equity and the Musicians Union is no longer. Actor’s Equity agreed to a new contract with the Broadway League, which has been ratified. The Musicians’ Union reached an agreement; union members are voting on the contract. Ragtime at Lincoln Center: Goodspeed’s production of this musical—one of my favorites—was terrific, but the new production at Lincoln Center in NYC is superb. Joshua Henry’s performance as Coalhouse Walker is great. But the same can be said for Cassie Levy as Mother and
Brandon Uranowitz as Tateh. In supporting roles, Nick Barrington (Houdini), Ben Levi Ross (Younger Brother), and Shana Taub (Emma Goldman) are outstanding. Add in a full orchestra (25+ pieces) and effective production values, direction, and choreography, and you have a production worth seeing. NYC Notes: Daniel Radcliffe will return to Broadway this spring in the solo piece, Every Brilliant Thing. The NY Theatre Workshop’s production of Tartuffe, Moliere’s biting satire about religious hypocrisy which stars Matthew Broderick has extended its run through Saturday, Jan. 24. A star-studded cast, including Ramin Karimloo, Erika Henningsen, Emily Skinner, Elizabeth Stanley, and Marc Kudisch, will perform a one-nightonly semi-staged production of the musical Jane Eyre on Feb. 15. Check with LinconCenter.org for more information. Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident. To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women, and the American Theatre Critics Association.
22
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING
Come for a Hike and Go for a Drive (A Food Drive) Press Release from the Branford Land Trust
Join the Branford Land Trust on Sunday, Nov. 23, at 1 p.m. for its annual November hike through the Van Wie Woods. Explore and enjoy the extensive trails of the 100-acre preserve—fields, woodlands, streams, and granite outcrops—donated by two generations of the Van Wie family. Hikers will gather afterwards at a local brewery for food, drinks, and conversation (venue to be announced). This year, the walk includes a holiday food drive to benefit the Branford Food Pantry. Bring a nonperishable and unexpired food donation to support of the pantry’s mission to provide groceries for families in need. For suggestions on needed food items, visit branfordfoodpantry.org/how-tohelp/shopping-list. Hikers meet by the trailhead near 100 Red Hill Road, off Leetes Island Road. From Exit 56 on I-95, head south on Leetes Island Road for 0.1 mile, and turn left (east) onto Red Hill Road. Park on the right side of the road or at the pull-off by the pond. The hike features two trail choices: a longer walk of approximately three miles
(moderate difficulty with some steep stretches, best suited to people feeling sure of foot) and a shorter walk of one to two miles. The event is free and open to the public; food and beverages are not included. The hike will last two to three hours. Families are welcome, but no dogs, please. Wear appropriate clothes and comfortable, supportive walking shoes. Expect terrain with rocky stretches, and some declines and inclines. Muddy spots are possible if there has been rain. Bring water. Walking sticks are advised if balance on slopes may be uncertain. Severe weather cancels the event. For weather-related updates, visit www.face book.com/branfordlandtrustCT. The Branford Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, accredited by the Land Trust Alliance, established in 1967 to protect Branford’s open space and natural resources. Run by volunteers and supported by member families and businesses, the Land Trust maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails, and manages and protects over 1,000 acres in more than 130 parcels and holds conservation easements on another 400 acres in Branford. For more information, visit www.branfordlandtrust.org.
Continued from page 21 Open Mic with Terri Lachance: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Café, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Admission: $5 donation at the door. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org. Opening Night for White Christmas: 8 p.m. Goodspeed Musicals, 6 Main St., East Haddam. The show runs through Sunday, Dec. 28. Other showtimes available. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org. Concert by Hollywood Nights: The Bob Seger Experience: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
FRIDAY, NOV. 14 THROUGH SUNDAY, NOV. 16 Little Women: Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Old Saybrook High School (OSHS) auditorium, 1111 Boston Post Rd. Presented by the OSHS dRAMa Department. Tickets: $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors. Service frees apply. To purchase tickets, visit https://cur8.com and specify "Old Saybrook High School." For info, contact 860-395-3175 or nwillis@oldsaybrookschools.org.
SATURDAY, NOV. 15 Sustainable Essex Annual Holiday Toy Swap: 9 a.m. to noon. Essex Elementary School, 108 Main St., Center-
brook. Residents of all towns can drop off gently used or like-new toys, books, and games and then choose what to take home. Residents are not required to bring something to take something. For children of all ages. For info, email sustsxct@gmail.com or visit sustainableessex.com. 13th Annual Christmas Fair: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Paul Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 56 Great Hammock Rd., Old Saybrook. Features crafts, white elephant items, a silent auction, food, and more. Proceeds benefit the church’s children ministries. For info, call 860-388-2398 or visit stpaul-elca.org. ’Tis the Season Artisan Market: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.. St. Margaret Church Hall, 24 Academy St., Madison. Features handcrafted items in a variety of media. For info, email stmargaretmadison@gmail.com. Friends of Ivoryton Library Association Book Sale: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ivoryton Library, 106 Main St. For info, contact the library at 860-767-1252 or staff@ivorytonlibrary.org. Chess Workshop Series: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Third in a three-class series featuring immersive instruction with a chess coach. Open to children, teens, and adults. Funded by Deep River Cares and sponsored by the Community Foundation of Middlesex Country. For info or to register (required), call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.accountsupport.com. Represent! Family Art and Book Program: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Lyme Art Association, 90 Lyme St., Old Lyme. For children ages 5 to 10, though younger and older chil-
Photos courtesy of Branford Land Trust
dren are welcome. Book: Chooch Helped by Andrea L. Rogers, illustrated by Rebecca Lee Kunz. Participants read a story, learn about the artist's style, and make an art project inspired by the book. For info or to register (required), call 860-434-7802 or visit lymeartassociation.org. Frames in Film: Caravaggio: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen, in collaboration with the Florence Griswold Museum. Running time: 100 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. STEAM Saturday: Pumpkin Explosion: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free and open to children in ages 5 to 12. Participants will explore potential energy as they investigate the question, “How many rubber bands does it take to explode a pumpkin”? Seating and materials are limited. For info or to register (required), contact the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Meet the Artist: Jennifer Longworth: 1 to 3 p.m. Windswept Ridge 176 Westbrook Rd., Essex. Longworth is the artist behind The Mountains, the second iteration of a four-season meditation art and nature journey at Windswept Ridge. The forest art installations combine plant materials found around the site (no living plans were used) and follow the Four Pebbles Meditation taught by Buddhist monk and activist Thich Nhat Hanh. Hosted by the Essex Land Trust. Inclement weather may cancel. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. For info, visit essexlandtrust.org/events. See page 25
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Photo courtesy of Shoreline ArtsTrail
Anne Coffey, Seasons End, collage
Photo courtesy of Shoreline ArtsTrail
Eileen Eder, The Round Table, oil
Shoreline ArtsTrail Holds Open Studios, Marks 25 Years Press Release from Shoreline Arts Trail
The Shoreline ArtsTrail’s 25th annual Open Studios Weekend happens at more than 30 studio locations in Branford, Guilford, and Madison. Set to take place Saturday, Nov. 15, and Sunday, Nov. 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the ArtsTrail is supported by 38 shoreline artists and 12 local business sponsors. This juried event gathers some of the finest award-winning artists on the shoreline whose work reflect mastery of methods and materials, originality of concept, and creativity with pieces handmade by the artist in his/her studio. The Shoreline ArtsTrail is a collaborative effort that includes hundreds of volunteer hours from member artists and the support of numerous community sponsors. During Open Studios Weekend, the colorful yellow “Open Studio” signs point guests to all of these artists and studios. The two-day event allows art lovers to meet artists, explore their workspaces, and purchase unique, handmade art, making it ideal for holiday shopping or home decor. Trail maps are available at libraries, town halls, and sponsor locations in Branford, Guilford and Madison. This year, the Shoreline ArtsTrail features Branford artists Terry Bogan (watercolor), Christine Chiocchio (painter
Janine Robertson, Infinite Blue, oil on aluminum
and photographer), Anne Coffey (collage), Jayne Crowley (glass), Martha Link Walsh (paper), Owen Luckey (fiber), Dennis Masback (painter), Linda McCarthy (painter), Molly McDonald (painter), Guilford artists Marjan Babaie Nasr (artist, painter and art teacher), Mike Bower (woodturner), Alice Chittenden (potter),
Photo courtesy of Shoreline ArtsTrail
Christine Drago (painter), Eileen Eder (painter), Laurie Flaherty (painter), David Frank (potter), Deborah Greco (painter), Jackie McGuire (jewelry & belt buckle designer), Christine Penry (hand papermaker), Steven Plaziak (painter), Eva Polizzi (fiber and ceramic artist), Susan Roberts (jewelry designer), Patricia Shoe-
maker (painter), Barbara Shulman (painter and jewelry designer), Sandee Spahr (sculptor and painter), Catherine Steinberg (painter), Jan Vanderburg (printmaker), and Madison artists Candace Bialczak (painter), Robert Dietz (painter), Hilary Griffin (painter), Anita Griffith (ceramic artist), Melissa Imossi (painter), Don Keene (painter), Lady MacCrady (painter), Robert Parrott (potter), Janine Robertson (painter), Nikki Travaglino (painter), and Alex Wetmore (mixed media/collage artist). “Shoreline ArtsTrail’s Open Studios Weekend is a rare chance to step into the creative world of local artists—and a perfect opportunity to discover meaningful, one-of-a-kind art that speaks from the heart,” says member artist Eileen Eder. The 2025 sponsors include Guilford Art Center, Lela & Matt’s Car Care Clinic, The Grey Goat Farmtique, Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance, Realtor Irene Keene, William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, Joint Effort Exercise, Levlup Family Fitness, Fairworld Mortgage, Ferguson & McGuire Insurance, Tommy Sullivan’s Café, and Page Hardware & Appliance Co. For more information on the weekend, locations for a paper map, a printable map, and artist profiles, visit www.shoreline artstrail.org, instagram@shorelinearts trail, or the group’s Facebook page.
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING
Ivoryton Playhouse Celebrates the Holidays Press Release from Ivoryton Playhouse
Halloween has barely left the building but the holidays are right around the corner! Ivoryton Playhouse will be celebrating with a down-home, locally grown production, Playhouse Holiday Jamboree. Inspired by classic radio shows and old time musical revues, Jamboree is a cozy evening of songs, stories, laughter, and joy. This holiday extravaganza is filled with festive tunes and heartwarming tales delivered by multitalented actor musicians. From foot-stomping fiddle breaks to gorgeous vocal harmonies, these incredible performers bring fresh life to beloved old favorites like O Holy Night, Winter Wonderland, and Let it Snow as well as a few beautiful contemporary pieces. And between the songs, you’ll hear folk tales, traditions, recipes, family stories, and more—some funny, some tender, all steeped in the magic of the season. Playhouse Holiday Jamboree was created by Ivoryton Playhouse Executive Producer Ben Hope and Development Associate Katie Barton. This talented husband-andwife team are also co-directing the production. Music is directed by Hope and the set design is by Glenn Bassett. Costumes are by Elizabeth Saylor, lighting and projections are by Jessica Drayton, and sound design is by Jonathan White. Props are by Kat Schorn. Jim Clark is production stage manager. “We wanted to create something heartwarming and joyful; something that feels timeless like the great hits of the Christmas catalog”, says Hope. Barton agrees, adding, “Jamboree is really our wish list come to life: a dream cast of performers, our favorite holiday music, a few folk tales, and just the right mix of humor and heart. Now all it needs is a jolly audience to make it shimmer!” The Playhouse is thrilled to welcome back some audience favorites: Sam Sherwood and Margaret Dudasik (Million Dollar Quartet Christmas and Escape to Margaritaville among others), Morgan Morse (Ring of Fire, Lost Highway, and others), as well as Elizabeth Nestlerode, Macy Robinson, and Larry Tobias. Now closing its 95th season, Ivoryton Playhouse continues its legacy of bringing the best professional performers and productions to the heart of the Connecticut shoreline. Playhouse Holiday Jamboree celebrates that legacy with an abundance of joy and gratitude for the community, and the beautiful village which will be decorated for the holidays with thousands of colored lights. It will be spectacular! The production runs from Thursday, Nov. 20, through Sunday, Dec. 21, with the following showtimes: Wednesdays 2 p.m., Thursdays 2 and 7:30 p.m., Fridays 7:30 p.m., Saturdays 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays 2 p.m. There will be no performances on Wednesday, Nov. 26; Thursday, Nov. 27; or Friday, Nov. 28. In addition, there will not be any performance on Saturday, Dec. 6, as Ivoryton celebrates the lighting of the Christmas Tree with Ivoryton Illuminations. For more information or tickets, call the box office at 860-767-7318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.org. Photo courtesy of Ben Hope
Sam Sherwood, Margaret Dudasik, Larry Tobias, Elizabeth Nestlerode, Morgan Morse, and Macy Robinson
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Elaine Sych, green holiday gnome
Nicole Manzoni, Forest Crown, acrylic on canvas
Diana Eastwood, gold and white snowflake with white center paper ornament
Robert Thomas, Storm View, limited edition fine art photography
The Art of Dreaming Opens Nov. 21 at Spectrum Gallery With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming, an exhibit that explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on two 6-foot holiday trees.
Start the holidays right at an open gallery reception on Friday, Nov. 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the open house weekend, Saturday, Nov. 22, from 1 to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 23, from 1 to 5 p.m. The Art of Dreaming runs through Jan. 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. Regular gallery hours are Wednesday to Satur-
day, from noon to 6 p.m. and Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. From Dec. 6 to Dec. 24, the gallery will be open Monday to Saturday, from noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. On Wednesday, Dec. 24, it will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. To register for the holiday adult and children’s workshops, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shopping is available online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the U.S.
Continued from page 22
decorations, stockings, artificial greens and wreaths, holiday china and glassware, linens, sweaters, toys, books, CDs, DVDs, lights, candles, and ornaments. Includes Haitian art, olive oil and soaps, Lakota handicrafts, and oneof-a kind handmade items from “The Ladies Who Stitch.” For info, call the church at 860-434-8686 or visit fccol.org.
Concert by Matt Schofield: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
Opening Reception for Double Visions: 5 to 7 p.m. Essex Art Association, 10 N. Main St. The exhibit features the works of Brian McClear and Peter Christ and runs through Sunday, Nov. 23. For info, visit mcclearart.com/2025/10/29/double-visions.
Red Cross Blood Drive: Noon to 6:15 p.m. Westbrook Elks Lodge, 142 Seaside Ave. For info or an appointment, The Little Mermaid: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultu- call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossral Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Presented by blood.org. the Panto Company. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
Sweet Saturday Nights: Songwriters Night with Frank Critelli, Stephen Clair, and Patrick Ward: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Tickets: $15. Service fees apply. Refreshments are available for purchase. For info or tickets, visit musicnowfoundation.org/events.
SUNDAY, NOV. 16
Concert by Albert Cummings: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
And They Also Make Music: 4 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, 4 Liberty St. Features five Chester residents whose primary occupations are unrelated to music, but who have enhanced their lives with the addition of music making. Stories about how they each incorporated playing an instrument into their lives will inspire a younger audience to keep on playing. Audience participation encouraged. Free but donations are welcome. Sponsored by Chester Historical Society. For info, call 860-5584701 or visit chesterhistoricalsociety.org.
SATURDAY, NOV. 15 AND SUNDAY, NOV. 16 2025 Elephants in Winter Holiday Sale: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, 4 Lyme St. Features Christmas
MONDAY, NOV. 17
TUESDAY, NOV. 18
Historical Fiction Book Group: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Book: This Strange Eventful History by Claire Messud. Moderated by Essex Library Adult Services Librarian Elizabeth Reinhart. Virtual participation by Zoom is an option. To register and receive the Zoom link, email emiller@essexlib.org. For info, visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.
See page 26
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING Continued from page 25 Unlock the Secret Language of Connection with Supercommunicator Charles Duhigg: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.
1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org. Mystery Book Club: 1 to 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Book: The Bullet that Missed by Richard Osman. No registration required. For info, visit actonlibrary.org.
Atmospheric CO2 and the Global-toRegional Climate: 5 to 6 p.m. Old Lyme Town Hall, 52 Lyme St. Presented by John Chester Blood Pressure Clinic: 2 to Jasper, chief scientific officer of Molecular 3 p.m. Chester Town Hall community Isotope Technologies. Hosted by the room, 203 Middlesex Ave. Free for Chester Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center as seniors and community members. For part of its 2025 Connecticut River lecture info, contact Public Health Nurse Sherry series. To register (required), call visit Carlson at 860-661-3300 or Scarlctaudubon.org/rtp-programs-events. For son@crahd.net. info, contact 860-598-4218 or rtpec@ctaudubon.org. Facts and Fibs Book Group: 3:30 p.m. Ivoryton Library, 106 Main St. Book: Call Connecticut History Book Club: 5 to the Midwife by Jennifer Worth. To register, 6:30 p.m. Pratt House, 19 West Ave., Essex. email staff@ivorytonlibrary.org. For info, Book: The Narrows by Ann Petry. Cocall 860-767-1252 or visit ivorytonlihosted by the Essex Historical Society, brary.org/book-clubs. Essex Library, and Ivoryton Library. Led by EHS Director Melissa Josefiak. For info or How Connecticut Thumbed Its Nose at to register (required), visit essexhisProhibition: 6 to 7 p.m. Connecticut River tory.org/events. Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Presented by Mike Allen, producer and host of the pod- Lawncare: Is There a Better Way?: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Phtoto courtesy of Shoreline Theater Academy cast "Amazing Tales About History." Part of the Live from the Boathouse lectures. Main St. Presented by members of SusFrom left to right, Yasmine Oumay as Matilda, Cast B; Kelsi Lewis as Bruce, Cast B; and Cost: free for members, $5 for nonmemtainable Deep River. Sponsored by ConRonan Love as Miss Trunchbull, Cast A bers. Virtual participation via Zoom is an necticut River Towns Quiet Lawns. For option. For info or to register (required), info or to register (required), call 860-526call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermu6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.accountsupseum.org. port.com.
Matilda the Musical Comes to Clinton Press release from Shoreline Theater Academy Kidz Konnection
The Shoreline Theater Academy Kidz Konnection proudly presents Matilda the Musical Friday, Nov. 21, at 6 p.m,; Saturday, Nov. 22, at 2 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 23, at 2 p.m. at the Andrews Memorial Town Hall auditorium, 54 East Main Street, Clinton. Full of mischief, magic, and the power of imagination, Roald Dahl’s classic novel is brilliantly brought to life by Dennis Kelly with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. The performances showcase the talents of two full casts and 100 young Shoreline performers at Shoreline Theater Academy. A must-see theatrical show, Matilda the Musical will leave the whole family singing and toe-tapping and the audiences cheering for more as everyone’s favorite little girl named Matilda proves even the smallest voice can make the biggest difference. Tickets can be purchased at ETIX. COM.Tickets cost $18 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, and $20 at the door. For more information, contact 860-2272363 or shorelinetheateracademy@ gmail.com, or visit shorelinetheateracademy. org.
Pickin’ Party: 6 to 8 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.
Concert by Beau Soleil avec Michael Doucet: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-5100453 or visit thekate.org.
Fall Book Chat: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. Book: The Emperor of Gladness: A Novel by Ocean Vuong. Moderated by Marsha Bansavage. Sponsored by the Friends of the Chester Library. For info or to register, call the library at 860-526-0018 or visit chesterctlibrary.com.
THURSDAY, NOV. 20
Concert by the Artimus Pyle Band: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or Phtoto courtesy of Shoreline Theater Academy visit thekate.org.
Top left to right, Ronan Love as Miss Trunchbull, Cast A; Lily Bertelli as Zinnia Wormwood, Cast A; and JJ Harder as Harry Wormwood. Bottom left to right, Yasmine Oumay as Matilda, Cast B; Kelsi Lewis as Red Cross Blood Drive: 12:45 to 6 p.m. Bruce, Cast B. Deep River Congregational Church, 1
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19
Church St. For info or an appointment, call
Morning Hike: 10 a.m. to noon. Canfield Meadow Woods, Book Hill Woods Rd., Essex. Arrive by 9:45 a.m. Co-sponsored by the Essex Land Trust and the Valley Shore YMCA. Inclement weather may cancel. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. For info, visit essexlandtrust.org/events. To submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email to news@shorepublishing.com. For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website zip06.com. The deadline for submissions is noon, eight days prior to the publication date.
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Double Visions Showcases Double Artists Press Release from Brian McClear
Essex Art Association Galleries is hosting Double Visions through Sunday, Nov. 23, with an opening reception Saturday, Nov. 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. The show brings together painters Brian McClear and Peter Christ, two artists who share a fascination for reimagining the familiar. Each offers a distinct lens on vintage Americana—McClear through evocative still-life pairings that find wit and symbolism in discarded objects, and Christ through luminous portrayals of the weathered signage and roadside icons that once defined midcentury America. Seen side by side, their works invite a second look at nostalgia itself—revealing how humor, memory, and quiet beauty can transform the ordinary into something enduring. Essex Art Association Galleries is located at 10 North Main Street with hours from 1 to 5 p.m., Wednesdays through Sundays.
Photo by Brian McClear
For Keeps by Brian McClear, 40 x 40 inches, oil on canvas
b
About the Artists Brian McClear is a Connecticut-based representational oil painter known for his ongoing series, “Discards & Discovery” and “Ink & Oil.” A signature member of the American Artists Professional League and the Salmagundi Club and an elected artist at the Lyme Art Association, he has had his work widely exhibited and collected throughout the United States. Peter Christ earned his Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art from Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts and his Master of Arts in painting from NYU. Influenced by Jerome Witkin and pop art painter Idelle Weber, Christ creates work that explores the faded imagery of iconic signs and landscapes across North America, with paintings held in private collections throughout the U.S. and Europe. For more information about the exhibit, contact Brian McClear at 959-777-1947 or McClearArt@ gmail.com, or visit essexart association.com. For more information about the artists, visit McClearart.com or PeterJacob Christ.com.
Photo by Brian McClear
Pressed Rose by Brian McClear , 30 x 30 inches, oil on canvas
Photo by Peter Christ
Perkins Rubber Stamps in New Haven, Connecticut, by Peter Christ, 48 x 48 inches, oil on canvas
Photo by Peter Christ
The Dive by Peter Christ 48 x 48 inches, oil on canvas
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • LIVING
Horoscopes
For the week of November 13 - November 19 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20
LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23
Aries, you understand that when you’re working hard toward a goal, the process isn’t always straightforward. You may tolerate a fair amount of challenges along the path this week.
Libra, even though you generally do not like dealing with uncertainty, this week you’re stuck operating without a lot of advanced information. Trust your instincts.
TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21
SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22
Taurus, it may seem like others around you do not get your sense of humor. While you’re confident at telling stories, it takes others a bit of time to appreciate your funny side.
Sometimes you are hesitant to share your opinions until you feel certain that they are correct, Scorpio. But this week you may miss out if you’re being too cautious.
GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21
SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21
Gemini, you may be tempted to look past a recent challenge. But reflecting on that adversity and your ability to overcome it will soon pay dividends.
You’re impressed when others carry themselves with confidence, Sagittarius. Learn from their behavior and emulate what you see. You will like the results.
CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22 Keeping an open mind is one of your strong suits, Cancer. Your willingness to see all sides has benefitted your in numerous ways, and that outlook will continue to bear fruit. LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23 Dramatic occasions and grand gestures draw your attention this week, Leo. But don’t forget to focus on some of the little things that make up most of your days. VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you notice everything that goes on around you, and you’re aware of your own moods, too. That self-awareness serves you well in your relationships.
CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20 Real life requires compromise, Capricorn. Lately it’s been your way or the highway, and those around you are taking notice. Don’t risk alienating them for good. AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, try not to linger on others’ innocent mistakes. People make little missteps all the time. Be gracious in letting those close to you get another shot at your good graces. PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, when you’ve already made up your mind about something, it can be hard to dissuade you. Do not overlook other people’s concerns. There is value in seeing things through others’ eyes.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
Crossword solution for November 6, 2025
NOVEMBER 13 Jimmy Kimmel, TV Host (58) NOVEMBER 14 Josh Duhamel, Actor (53) NOVEMBER 15 Paulo Dybala, Athlete (32) NOVEMBER 16 Missi Pyle, Actress (53)
Crossword
NOVEMBER 17 RuPaul, TV Host (65) NOVEMBER 18 Owen Wilson, Actor (57) NOVEMBER 19 Allison Janney, Actress (66)
CLUES ACROSS 1. Expression of surprise 4. Keyboard key 7. One who works on lights 12. Notable children’s story 15. Fall back into a bad pattern 16. Eye parts 18. Atomic #18 19. Of she 20. Farm state 21. One point south of southeast 24. British media entity 27. Asian garment 30. Drench 31. Expressions of pleasure 33. Turf 34. UK trade union (abbr.) 35. Bleated 37. Fifth note of a major scale 39. Paddle 41. Monetary unit of Italy 42. American classical pianist 44. Shuts down for the day 47. Seize 48. Soluble ribonucleic acid 49. Greeting 50. Some cars still need it 52. Atomic #22 53. Let go 56. Marched in public 61. U.S. residents, Mexicans and Canadians 63. Hostilities 64. Speak aloud 65. River in NE Scotland CLUES DOWN 1. Razorbill genus 2. Longtime Baltimore tight end
3. Performs on stage 4. Supports a sentiment 5. Rugged mountain ranges 6. Broadway songwriter Sammy 7. Snakelike fish 8. Men’s fashion accessory 9. Hospital worker 10. Something to scratch 11. No (Scottish) 12. Volcanic ash 13. Of this 14. American jazz drummer Watts 17. Drop down 22. English dialect 23. Predatory seabirds 24. Imams’ deputies 25. Fertility god 26. Fence material 28. Parks and DeLauro are two 29. Distinctive smell (Brit.) 32. Protein-rich liquids 36. Touch lightly 38. Season for Catholics 40. Boat race 43. Police actions 44. Chinese river 45. Waterfall (Scottish) 46. Walk ostentatiously 51. Type of carpet 54. Mauna __, Hawaiian volcano 55. Sea eagles 56. An enclosure for confining livestock 57. Dry 58. An increase in price or value 59. The highest point of something 60. Government lawyers 62. Larry and Curly’s pal
Word Search
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LIVING • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.
GEOGRAPHY WORD SEARCH
Word Scramble
Word Scramble solution for November 6, 2025: MOUTH
ARCHIPELAGO BASIN CONTINENT DELTA DESERT EQUATOR EROSION GLACIER HEMISPHERE ISTHMUS LATITUDE LONGITUDE MOUNTAIN RANGE PENINSULA PLATEAU PRIME MERIDIAN RAINFOREST RIVERS SAVANNA TOPOGRAPHY TUNDRA VALLEY WATERSHED WEATHER Word Search solution for November 6, 2025
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • REAL ESTATE
Real Estate Transactions
BRANFORD
44 Bay Pkwy Unit 44: Adam Peterson of Branford to Jessica E. and Michael V. Piasecki, $315,500 on 10/23/2025 21 Flax Mill Rd: Vincent J. Chiocchio of Branford to 21 Thompson Road LLC, $1,400,000 on 10/23/2025 129 Florence Rd Unit 1B: James B. Douglass of Branford to Eleanor Paternoster, $240,000 on 10/23/2025 Gould Ln: Raymond and Stephanie Mcgrath of Branford to Relo Direct Government Sv, $740,000 on 10/16/2025 30 Harbour Vlg Unit A: Jennifer J Wright RET and Jennifer J. Wright of Branford to Maureen Squires, $450,000 on 10/23/2025 124 Hotchkiss Grove Rd: Kathleen H. Murphy of Branford to Thomas B. and Donna B. Nolan, $830,000 on 10/24/2025 101 Limewood Ave Unit 4: Maria L Anderson RET and Maria L. Anderson of Branford to Peter Ogilvy, $938,000 on 10/20/2025 37 Seaview Ave: Childs Nancy M Est and David W. Childs of Branford to Blake and Rachel Culpepper, $1,325,000 on 10/21/2025
31 Merrill Rd: Rachel Karasik of Clinton to Doreen Marinaro, $826,000 on 10/16/2025 44 Olde Orchard Rd: Christopher Ziemba and Taylor Miller of Clinton to Sean R. and Dara A. Manley, $513,000 on 10/22/2025 4 Oscela Trl: Nelson Vertefeuille of Clinton to Jordyn Dube, $330,000 on 10/16/2025
EAST HAVEN
131 Allison Way Unit 131: Lawrence Clemente Ft and Nicholas Clemente of East Haven to Veronica Nthala, $395,000 on 10/21/2025 24 Austin Ave: Gina M. Proto and George E. Carranzo of East Haven to Andrew Minicozzi, $305,000 on 10/22/2025 96 Austin Ave: Gina M. Proto and George E. Carranzo of East Haven to Andrew Minicozzi, $305,000 on 10/22/2025 216-B Cosey Beach Ave: Brittany G. Diamano of East Haven to Gina A. and James A. Vicino, $775,000 on 10/22/2025 Dell Dr Unit 9: Golden Prop Solutions LLC of East Haven to Tchad A. Williams, $375,000 on 10/21/2025 102 Henry St: Kara Welch and CHESTER Daniel Horvath of East Haven to Marc 95 Cedar Swamp Rd: Albert and A. Carvajal, $325,000 on 10/22/2025 Olga Saubermann of Chester to Vera 127 Henry St: Harriette De Rose of Amaral and Joseph Mehlman, East Haven to Rebco Property Mgmt $1,017,000 on 10/23/2025 LLC, $175,000 on 10/24/2025 23 Hickory Hill Dr: Frey Family 107 Kenneth St Unit B: Pellegrino Benefits T and Joseph R. Demartino of Vincent J Est and Janet Pellegrino of Chester to Kenneth Frey, $446,000 on East Haven to Joseph and Michael 10/23/2025 Derose, $120,000 on 10/24/2025 95 Shailer Pond Rd: Albert and 2 Old Town Hwy Unit 47: Naeem S Olga Saubermann of Chester to Vera Bengali RET and Naeem S. Bengali of Amaral and Joseph Mehlman, East Haven to Sonali Ganguly, $1,017,000 on 10/23/2025 $749,000 on 10/23/2025 23 Spring St: Susan D. Murphy of 34 Pine View Dr: Pickup Jr Ralph J Chester to Dmitri and Sasha Krushnic, Est and Susan Stango of East Haven to $550,000 on 10/16/2025 Richard and Kristen Spivey, $350,000 on 10/20/2025 75 Redwood Dr Unit 607: Anthony CLINTON Mongillo of East Haven to Alyssa C. Anderson and Felicia A. Schwartz, 24 College St Unit 5: Pedro L. and $239,500 on 10/17/2025 Luz M. Irizarry of Clinton to Syed M. 173 Russo Ave Unit 609: Baldwin Hussaini, $199,000 on 10/15/2025 Addo of East Haven to Bsm Hsh LLC, Killingworth Tpke: Susan C Barber RET and Walter L. Barber of Clinton to $150,000 on 10/23/2025 55 Thompson St Unit 17H: Rasha George Marshall, $375,000 on Ali of East Haven to Corene M. Brown, 10/16/2025 $205,000 on 10/17/2025 3 Medley Ln: Diane T. Lankarge of 81 Willow Rd: Marjorie Maguire of Clinton to Secretary Hud, $343,018 on East Haven to Ngoc B. Huynh, $400,000 10/16/2025 on 10/16/2025
ESSEX
MADISON
Contact me to learn more about the current market and the value of your home.
SUSAN A. MALAN Broker Associate CT & & Licensed in RI
o. 860-767-5011 e. smalan@wpsir.com
60 Bushy Hill Rd: Derek Hollwedel and Shawn H. Schenk of Essex to 60 Bushy Hill Street LLC, $240,000 on 10/24/2025 38 Grove St: Jonathan Ewert of Essex to Nancy Olson Benn 2004 T and Nancy A. Olson, $990,000 on 10/21/2025
GUILFORD 8 Horseshoe Rd: David W. and Diane M. Wanat of Guilford to David W. Derusso, $600,000 on 10/20/2025 2070 Little Meadow Rd: Mary J. Cartier of Guilford to Nazaret Meguerditchian, $550,000 on 10/23/2025 2814 Long Hill Rd: Susan Freeman Domizi RET and David F. Domizi of Guilford to Michael M. and Robin L. Donofrio, $580,000 on 10/17/2025 7 Northview Dr: Bernard W. and Agatha C. Elliott of Guilford to Andrew and Dianne Brough, $665,000 on 10/24/2025 133 Oxbow Ln: Bih-Fen N. Chien of Guilford to Carlos Camacho and Liz Lopez, $635,000 on 10/17/2025 230 S Hoop Pole Rd: Lucie E. Villavicencio of Guilford to Jennifer Coyne and Phillip Youker, $575,000 on 10/23/2025
23 Forest Hills Dr: Peter and Deirdre R. Horton of Madison to Alyssa R. Zabin and Matthew Collins, $745,000 on 10/21/2025 72 Kelsey Springs Dr: Douglas W. Bigwood of Madison to Michael Bamberger and Alexandra Auli, $815,000 on 10/24/2025 9 Madrina Ln: Colleen C. Luddy of Madison to Katherine P. March and Paul S. Kellogg, $530,000 on 10/23/2025 24 Pent Rd: Proulx Constance G Est and Stephanie R. Proulx of Madison to Kevin P. and Maureen Noonan, $560,000 on 10/21/2025 115 River Edge Farms Rd: Sharon Robert Est and Adam Sharon of Madison to John and Connie Walker, $1,300,000 on 10/20/2025
OLD SAYBROOK 8 Fenbrook Rd: Parks Ft and Joseph A. Parks of Old Saybrook to Robert J. and Susan E. Evans, $1,025,000 on 10/21/2025 64 Otter Cove Dr: David P. Chan and Ann M. Bock-Chan of Old Saybrook to Dmitry and Larisa Zuev, $450,000 on 10/20/2025
WESTBROOK
14 Halls Rd: Eve L. Ber of Westbrook to Thomas M. and Eden Marron, $953,000 on 10/21/2025 6 Indian Trl: Joseph Karpinski of Westbrook to Melissa Suprin, $825,000 on 10/21/2025 151 Kingfisher Ln: Amy Scribner and Nicolas Chamberlain of Westbrook to Sokalino LLC, $4,900,000 on 10/21/2025 KILLINGWORTH 951 Old Clinton Rd Unit 17: Eileen 51 Parker Hill Rd Ext: William A. Agli and Susan M. Nesci of Killingworth C. Bujda and Richard D. Gallo of Westbrook to Michael K. and Laraine D. to Ct Clinical Services Inc, $650,000 on Kehoe, $555,000 on 10/21/2025 10/21/2025 79 Pine Lake Rd: Brian T. and 446 Route 148: Michael and Hannah Betty J. Moore of Westbrook to Thomas Jurewicz of Killingworth to Ruslan M. Conboy, $625,000 on 10/21/2025 Boyarsky, $580,000 on 10/23/2025 755 W Pond Meadow Rd: Leonard 473 Route 148: Raymond Narducci L. and Nicole R. Adams of Westbrook to Est and Clint Harwood of Killingworth Nicholas E. and Amanda H. Cappelli, to Jason Sheppard, $308,000 on $625,000 on 10/21/2025 10/23/2025 1 Tower Hill Rd: Bryan T. and Michele M. Marciniak of Killingworth to James P. and Theresa E. Oberempt, Copyright material of Banker and $659,999 on 10/22/2025 Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.
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REAL ESTATE • VALLEY COURIER • NOVEMBER 13, 2025
AYERS POINT SERENITY 96 Ayers Point Road, Old Saybrook $1,095,000 Discover the serenity of Ayers Point in this spacious 3400 sq ft home with captivating views of the Connecticut River and surrounding marshland. Privately set with a beautiful inground pool and lush gardens, this retreat is perfect for those seeking a coastal lifestyle near boating and village charm. The home features both main and upper level primary suites, offering flexibility and comfort for guests or multigenerational living.
#1 Coldwell Banker Agent in Middlesex County
18 Benson Lane • Essex Village Spectacular Setting! • Historic Water View Home 4 bdrms • 2.1 bths • 1.37 acres • Two-Bay Garage Plus Post & Beam Barn Offered at $1,675,000
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Rick Weiner Broker Associate
860.227.3191 rweiner@wpsir.com
With nearly $300 million in sales volume and helping almost 1000 happy buyers and sellers over 20 years on the shoreline, Joel’s experience is invaluable. Let him help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact Joel Lucas Today!
JOEL LUCAS, REALTOR®
Serving the CT Shoreline from Branford to Stonington for over 20 years
860.304.9150 bankerbuddy@hotmail.com COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM
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860-304-9150
Madison Office 752 Boston Post Road | Madison, CT 06443
ESSEX BROKERAGE | |13 STREET ESSEX BROKERAGE 13MAIN MAIN STREET| |860.767.7488 860.767.7488 ESSEX BROKERAGE | 13 MAIN STREET | 860.767.7488 Affiliated FINANCING real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the OLD LYME BROKERAGE | 103 HALLS ROAD | 860.434.2400 OLD LYME BROKERAGE | |103 HALLS ROAD OLD LYME BROKERAGE 103 HALLS ROAD| |860.434.2400 860.434.2400 MORTGAGE AVAILABLE 1.855.298.5650 MORTGAGE FINANCING MORTGAGE FINANCINGAVAILABLE AVAILABLE1.855.298.5650 1.855.298.5650 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
areservice trademarks of Coldwell © 2013 Citibank, N. A. equal housing lender, member FDIC. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Coldwell Citi with Arc Banker Design arelogo registered marks of Citigroup Inc. Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary
Each EachOffice OfficeisisIndependently IndependentlyOwned Ownedand andOperated Operated
RW 18 Benson Lane.indd 1
©©2013 Citibank, N.N. A.A. equal housing lender, member FDIC. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks ofof Citigroup Inc. 2013 Citibank, equal housing lender, member FDIC. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks Citigroup Inc. Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. of Anywhere Advisors LLC. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing
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J u s t L i s t e d • 3 1 W h i t t l e s e y B r o o k R o a d , D e e p R i v e r, C T • L i s t e d a t : $ 5 7 1 , 0 0 0 SUSAN A. MALAN Broker Associate CT & Licensed in RI o. 860.767.5011 • c. 617.645.4392 smalan@wpsir.com susanmalanrealtor susanmalan.williampitt.com Essex Brokerage: 13 Main Street, Essex
#1 DOLLAR VOLUME IN ESSEX 2024-2025(YTD)*** #1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN ESSEX 2019-2025(YTD)* #1 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY 2023 & 2024** #1 IN DOLLAR VOLUME IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY 2025(YTD)** DIAMOND AWARD WINNER 2020-2025****
*Sou rce: Sm art MLS, 1/ 1 /1 9 -1 1 / 03/25, to tal t ransa ct ions by a ge nt, Essex; a l l pro p ert ies listed o r sold by a ge nt . ** Source: Sm a rt MLS, 1/1/ 23-11/03/ 25, tota l transact ions by a gent , Mi dd lesex County; a ll pro p erties listed or sold by agent . * **Source: Sm a rtM LS, 1/1/ 24-11/ 03/ 25, to tal t ransact ions by agent , Essex; a l l prop erties listed or so l d by agent. * ** *Sou rce: Wi l l i am P it t Sot heby’s Inte rna t ion al Rea lty 2020 2025 Awa rd s Re cog nition, Essex Broke rage. Ea ch Of f i ce is Inde pen dent ly Ow ned and Op era ted .
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NOVEMBER 13, 2025 • VALLEY COURIER • REAL ESTATE
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