The Deep River Firehouse Building Committee is planning for a new firehouse in town.
Nick Kornacki, chair of the Deep River Firehouse Building Committee, said the town is currently trying to find the best, most
effective way to build this new firehouse.
“Right now we are just trying to build out a schedule and see how we can do this in the most efficient way possible,” he said. “We have established our charter, and are trying to identify any gaps and see how we can fill them in where possible.”
The current building is located on Union Street. But the committee and Board of
Selectmen is still mulling where the new building should go. The committee was formed in April 2024, and Kornacki was named chair. Soon after, a referendum took place, giving the go-ahead for the committee to start planning.
This charter was adopted on July 15 of this
See Deep River Firehouse page 10
Deep River
Christmas
Mary Albert arranges containers of homemade cookies Saturday during the Holly Day Christmas Fair at Winthrop Baptist Church in Deep River on Dec. 6.. The cookies, baked by church members, have become a popular tradition at the annual fair and sell out each year. The event featured handcrafted items, baked and canned goods, vintage Christmas items and a letter-writing station where children could send letters to Santa.
Seniors in the Spotlight
Several seniors from the Valley/ Lyme-Old Lyme football co-op were named to the All-Conference Team this fall........................................27
Traditions
Liz Egan shares her favorite memories from the holiday season over the years.............................20
PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ ValleyCourier
Clinton Resident Chris Shepard Brings His Lifelong Love of Choral Music to Con Brio’s Holiday Concerts This Month
By Christian Maldonado
Staff Writer
Music is always regarded as an important part of the holidays, with carols and other Christmas- and holiday-themed music helping people slip into the festive mood. This year, longtime music educator and conductor Chris Shepard joins forces with the Con Brio Choral Society to shape two new Christmas concerts in Deep River.
A resident of Clinton and a veteran in the music industry, Chris says the opportunity to be the Choral Society’s new Music Director is wonderful for him.
“I’m on the road all the time, so to have a job that is right next door is absolutely fantastic,” he says. “I have known the group for a while through their recently retired head who is a friend and colleague of mine, so I have known that they are great…they are a great group and
really serious about what they do.”
Con Brio’s upcoming concerts, while Christmas- and holidaythemed, also serve as an ode to Sir John Rutter, the famous English composer who turns 80 this year and is best known for his carols and church music.
“His music is really attractive and easy to listen to,” Chris says. “Because we are with an orchestra, there is a world of sound to it. I have worked with him before, and he’s the nicest guy. I thought ‘What a wonderful way to celebrate the 80th birthday of someone who is so important in our little choir world.’”
He says he is most excited about being able to pay homage to Rutter’s music in front of a crowd of his neighbors, whom he hopes to get to know better by sharing this music and atmosphere with them.
“When I discovered this area [the shoreline], I fell in love with it,” he says. “Here’s the funny thing, I don’t really know anyone around here, my life is everywhere. One of the greatest things about this opportunity is that I feel like I am becoming friends with 80 new people in the area.”
Chris has had a deep love and passion for conducting since junior high school, when Pam Perri, his music and chorus teacher, inspired him and allowed him to conduct his class chorus.
“From the age of 15, I knew that I wanted to be a conductor,” he says. “One of the greatest moments of my entire life was Pam being there for
See Clinton page 11
Via: Connecticut Choral Artists
Being a resident of Clinton and having worked in the music industry for many years, Chris Shepard says that filling the shoes as the Con Brio Choral Society's new music director is a wonderful opportunity for him.
Accumulated dredge material prevents the free movement of pleasure boats in South and Middle Coves in Essex. The simplest solution is to load the dredge onto barges and dump it in designated areas in Long Island Sound. Without demonstrating an environmental need to do so, the cost would fall to the residents and businesses.
Because nearby Thatched Island has suffered decades of erosion, they propose to dump the dredge onto the island to cover eroded areas and prevent erosion. With the town’s consent and creation of an ad hoc committee, a study was conducted to support their proposal.
The study showed that their proposal would not work and such past dumping had not prevented erosion. The study did provide a simple plan to gather floating trees and arrange them along the eastern shore of the island to deter further erosion.
The study’s findings were ignored. Another company was engaged to conduct another study that proposed filling and stacking large synthetic barricading
tubes. Adequate scientific proof to support this proposal was not provided, and weak attempts to claim that the first study was outdated were made.
Elsewhere, effective methods to restore and protect shorelines have moved in the direction of gathering and arranging floating trees and gone further. Introducing additional kinds of natural material has created living shorelines that support the growth of sea vegetation and animals into a permeable buffer that grows into a living habitat, absorbs erosion-causing boat wake, and protects the shoreline. The living shoreline repairs itself and grows stronger.
Using dredge material would build a rigid structure that would eventually break and need to be repaired. Dredge material is often contaminated and of a consistency not likely to support the growth of plants and animals and to create a living shoreline.
Gary Comstock Essex
Parents Asked to Help with Kindergarten Count
Press Relese from Chester Elementary
School
Chester Elementary School is looking to get a kindergarten count for the 2026-2027 school year and to predict the count for future years. For families with a child who will be entering kindergarten on Aug. 27, 2026 or for new families to town with a child aged 5 and under call Gayle Capezzone, Secretary at Chester Elementary School (860-526-5797).
Calling All Theater Performers
Goodspeed Musicals, 6 Main Street, East Haddam, is holding local Connecticut Equity auditions on Saturday, Dec. 13, starting at 10 a.m. for its 2026 Goodspeed season. Goodspeed is seeking equity adult actors for all shows in the season. Children auditions will be held at a later date. Candidates must be available for four weeks of rehearsal and up to a nine-week performance run between March 17, 2026 (first rehearsal for Jesus Christ Superstar), and Dec. 27, 2026 (close of Annie). Interested local performers should bring a resume, photo, and sheet music for a 32-bar cut of an up-tempo song with appropriate sheet music. An accompanist will be provided. Music must be legible and in the proper key (no lead sheets). All auditions are by appointment only. For more information, contact either Carol Giroux at 860-8738664, ext. 323 or cgiroux@goodspeed.org, or Dan McMahon at 860-873-8664, ext. 324 or dmcmahon@goodspeed.org.
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Editorial Staff
Essex Local Businesses
Emphasize The Importance of Shopping Locally This Holiday Season
By Christian Maldonado
Staff Writer
The holiday season, while joyous and important to most people, is especially important for small businesses. Many of them anticipate their fourth quarter as their busiest and most productive. There are many family owned and non-chain local businesses in the Essex area, and it is important on any day to support them, but especially during this season.
Amy D’Alessio, the co-owner of J. Alden Clothiers on Main Street in Essex, says that they have appreciated people who currently and in the past have supported small businesses like them during the festive season.
“While I wouldn’t say that there are many challenges that we are facing this season, we appreciate that people know how important it is to shop small,” she said. “They know how important businesses like ours are to the fabric of this community.”
Nancy Harney is the Vice President of Connecticut River Artisans, a co-op made up of 25 different local artisans who make jewelry, pottery, and various other handmade items, with its own supply store on Main Street in Essex. Harney says she appreciates all of the people who come in and shop at the store, and recognizes how important the families from near and far are to not only her shop, but to the surrounding area as well.
“The holiday season is always fun, there’s so much to do around Essex and especially on Main Street,” she said. “With everybody in our organization handmaking their items, it is especially important to recognize small business at this
time…sometimes we get whole families that come in and it really is an experience and fun memory for them coming into the town and our store.”
Family-owned and -operated stores are part of the fabric of the town of Essex, and make up many of the store locations especially on Main Street, including Chocolate Geeks, a chocolate and sweets store, and Essex Duck, a store that sells rubber ducks, with the message of brightening people’s days and providing them with a little ray of sunshine. Both are owned by Sherri Athay, her husband, and her daughter.
While owning two different stores on Main Street during the holiday season may sound like a challenge, she says that she is able to combat this with the support of her family, who often pitch in and help keep both stores thriving during this holiday season.
“We are now pretty used to the holiday rush this time of year, and we have a great supporting family staff,” Althay said. “It is really nice to see new and returning customers during the holiday season, and we are able to manage when things get pretty busy.”
These three are just a few of the important small businesses in the town of Essex, with countless more in the areas of Ivoryton and Centerbrook as well. While it may be easier for people to go to a big chain store or order things online, the people who still find their way into their stores, or in some cases order their products online, are still very much appreciated. And the experience of shopping and strolling in some of Connecticut’s most intriguing villages can add to the holiday spirit with their unusual, often one-of-a-kind items.
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Wikipedia Commons
Main Street in Essex is lined with specialty shops full of surprising, one-of-a-kind gifts.
Rotary Club Donates
to Food Pantry
The Chester Food Pantry has received some help from both the Chester Rotary Club Thanksgiving Drive and a servicelearning project at Chester Elementary School.
The Rotary Club delivered a food pantry donation of $11,590 on Nov. 24 after a Thanksgiving drive, according to Chester First Selectwoman Cynthia Lignar. Chester Rotary President Ted Taigen presented a check for use by the food pantry.
“This most appreciated funding from kind-hearted individual, business and organization donors will go directly into our Chester Community Fund ... to support intervention to prevent food insecurity,” Lignar said. “The Rotary’s coordinated efforts, including last weekend’s last push to request donations, resulted in a boost to help our residents in need during this holiday season and beyond.”
The Rotary partnered with Liberty Bank for matching funding, and Leah Kisselbrack raised funds from Leah’s Polar
Plunge and Masonicare at Chester Village residents and staff. The Community Foundation of Middlesex County is the funding account manager for participating Rotary Clubs.
Also, at Chester Elementary, 5th and 6th grade student leaders are involved in many service-learning projects throughout the year, including the Chester Food Pantry & Gateway Community Treatment Program.
They are ambassadors of the town’s Social Development Curriculum, called Choose Love, promoting the ideas of courage, gratitude, forgiveness and compassion. They also brainstorm additional ways to help within the school and community.
For this service-learning project, the students promoted a food pantry fundraiser throughout the month with flyers, posters, and announcements on the inschool broadcast. They organized, made sure there were no expired food donations and delivered everything families brought in for the collection.
Photo submitted
From left, First Selectwoman Cynthia Lignar, Leah Kisselbrack, Rosie Bininger (Chester Director of Social Services), Deborah Lynskey (Masonicare Manager of Administrative Operations) and Chester Rotary President Ted Taigen.
Press Release from Chester First Selectman's Office
Chester, Church Partner for “Stuff-a-Cruiser”
A: Hi Nan, As you know, rose hips are the fruit of the rose plant that contain the seeds. I recommend that you leave the rose hips on the plants for the winter. They are pretty focal points to look at all winter long and are a wonderful source of food for the birds during the cold weather when it’s hard for them to find food. In the spring, cut off what’s left of the rose hips when you are doing your pruning and thinning (before the roses bloom). During the growing season, cut off the rose hips after blooming so the plant puts its energy into making flowers and not fruit. After September 1, I usually do not cut off the spent flowers of roses so that the hips will grow heading into winter. Thank you for your question. FEATURING
By Christian Maldonado
Staff Writer
In accordance with a tradition that has gone on for over a decade, the United Church of Chester, in collaboration with the Town of Chester, will be holding a “Stuff-a-Cruiser” event at the church. The event takes place on Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and its goal is to assist families in need, in and around the Chester area.
Q: Hi Linda, I was wondering if I should let the rose hips develop on my roses or should they be cut off? Someone told me that letting the hips develop inhibits the production of flowers in the spring. I always enjoy your very informative articles. Thank you so much, - Nan
Sue Germini-Humble, a member of the United Church of Chester, said that this event is important for the Chester community, as well as people from outside of town as well. The event will also be attended by Chester Police, as well as Santa Claus, who will be helping to distribute gifts.
“I have been a part of the outreach program here at the church for four years, and I know how important this committee is to the church,” she said. “We pride ourselves on not just helping the people in our community, but even beyond it and into other
The families that will be helped during this event have been selected by the Town of Chester’s Social Services Director, Rosie Bininger. Three presents will be gifted to each child. Remaining gifts from the event will be sent either to the town of Deep River, or in some cases to the Covenant to Care, a company that provides safety for neglected or impoverished children in Connecticut.
Toys for Tots
Germini-Humble also encourages people to get involved with the event and assist with purchasing gifts, even if they are not connected to the church or attending Mass.
“The best thing someone can do if they want to get involved with what we are doing is reach out to the church and get a list of the items that we need,” GerminiHumble said. “There are lots of gifts for the children that can be purchased.”
She also said that while participating will help out the church, it will also help many children around this time of year whose families may be struggling to afford presents. Germini-Humble mentioned the feeling of giving back and helping people less fortunate is something that can really have a positive impact on those who want to help out the event.
“We feel as though when you give, you ultimately get more back,” Germini-Humble said. “If you can help people when they need it most, it really is such a powerful feeling…these days it feels as though we are so divided, and we just want to make this a focus on giving back.”
For more information on assisting with the upcoming “Stuff-a-Cruiser” event, or for those interested in participating in purchasing gifts, contact the church via phone at (860) 526-2697, or via their email, unitedchester@uccchester.org
The Essex office of the William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty is again partnering with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. Donations of new, unwrapped toys will be accepted at William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty, 13 Main Street, Essex. Drop-off hours are Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The last day for donations is Monday, Dec. 15. For more information, call 860-767-7488.
Notice of Decision
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Essex Planning and Zoning Commission at their regular meeting on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 via in-person and virtual meeting, took the following actions:
- PZC #25-14 Special Exception under Section 101E.1 of the Essex Zoning Regulations for a residential dock for private, recreational boating purposes to be located within 100 feet of the coastal jurisdiction line at 9 South Cove Lane Essex Applicant/Owner: Monique and John Nelsen APPROVED
- PZC #25-15 Special Exception under Section 101E.1 of the Essex Zoning Regulations for a residential dock for private, recreational boating purposes to be located within 100 feet of the coastal jurisdiction line at 38 Foxboro Road Essex Applicant/Owner: Debra M. Javit Revocable Trust APPROVED
- PZC #25-16 Proposed Text Amendment to Section 102 Coastal Management District of the Essex Zoning Regulations in order to comply with Public Act 25-33. Applicant: Essex Planning and Zoning Commission APPROVED EFFECTIVE JANUARY 5, 2026
Details of these decisions can be found at the Land Use Office at Town Hall 29 West Avenue Essex CT.
Respectfully Submitted, Chairman Smith
Matching Challenge for SSKP
You can help……
The need is great! In Connecticut River valley & shore towns little children will go cold this fall/winter without your help.
Just what is The Warm The Children program?
Warm The Children Shoreline is a fund of the Community Foundation of Middlesex County (a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization) which provides new winter clothing and footwear for our area’s neediest children.
How are needy families identified?
Youth & Family Service coordinators in Chester, Deep River, Essex, Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Clinton, East Haddam and Killingworth identify families and pass on contact information to Warm The Children coordinator who assigns each family to a volunteer shopper.
How will the children’s clothing be purchased?
Volunteer shoppers meet their assigned families at Walmart in Old Saybrook and assist in selecting clothing and footwear for each child. No money changes hands, Walmart bills Warm the Children Shoreline for all purchases. Children aged 4-18 have $100 to spend, children under 4 have $50 to spend on clothes.
How can I help?
Your donation of any amount is appreciated. Donate by mail or on-line. On-line – donations can be made using a credit card at MiddlesexCountyCF.org, Click the Make a Donation button, type Warm The Children Shoreline and select Search. Donations are tax deductible. By mail- Send your donation to: CFMC/Warm the Children, 49 Main St., Middletown CT 06457
Deep River Firehouse Ideas Taking Shape
year, and the committee includes seven regular members (Alan Paradis, Tim Lee, Adam Kerop, Miriam Morrissey, Lawrence P. Stewart, and Zachary J. Machold), as well as an alternate member (David Berardis).
The purpose of the committee is to oversee the planning, design, and construction of a new or renovated firehouse for the Town of Deep River. The committee’s mission is to ensure that the project meets the needs of the fire department, enhances public safety, and adheres to budgetary constraints.
The committee will be responsible for reviewing proposals recommending to the BOS the hiring of consultants as well as contractors and overseeing the project’s timeline and progress. It will work closely with town officials, architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure the final design meets the functional requirements of the fire service while maintaining community input and transparency throughout the process.
Regular updates are being provided to the Board of Selectmen and other relevant town entities. The committee is committed to delivering a modern, efficient, and safe facility that serves the needs of Deep River’s fire and emergency services for years to come. At this moment in time, Kornacki says the committee is looking at
not just rebuilding on the space the current building takes up, but also considering other possible spaces.
“The concern at the moment is that the current space is non-compliant,” he said,
because of being in a flood plain. “We are currently seeking an independent and non-partisan review with a firm to see if the new building can be built on the current site, or if we need to consider other locations.”
According to him, a new location could mean more money out of the pockets of taxpayers, but the committee is determined to find the best and safest option when it comes to the construction and site of a new building. The committee will most likely find a design firm to talk more about things like cost feasibility and meeting the needs for a new firehouse.
The committee’s next meeting will occur on Dec. 16 at the current Deep River Firehouse location, although no decisions regarding the firehouse building will be immediately forthcoming, according to Kornacki. It is open for all residents to attend and find out more information.
“Our committee has no information to say that we cannot build on the current location,” he said. “But we expect that by the end of January, we will have a design firm picked and ready to continue planning.”
Photosubmitted
Clinton Resident Chris Shepard
Continued from page 2
my first time conducting at Carnegie Hall, because she let me conduct the chorus with my high school choir. It felt as big a deal when I was 15 as Carnegie Hall did when I was 50.”
His work eventually took him much farther out than Deep River or Manhattan. Chris recalls another life-changing chapter, where he was able to travel abroad to Australia for more than 13 years to teach at one of the country’s top musical schools. The opportunity arose while he was teaching at The Taft School in Watertown, when the headmaster of a school in Australia visited Taft. The headmaster had been looking to strengthen his school’s choir and offered Chris a position working with choir students in Sydney.
“At the time, I knew absolutely nothing about Australia, and I had never even seen a picture of the Sydney Opera House,” he says. “I originally went for a year and stayed for 13, teaching at an amazing private boys school.”
While he finds this experience cathartic and life-changing — teaching at a prestigious school and making deep connections in the music world — it was also challenging to get accustomed to the culture and to being a foreigner in a place he didn’t recognize. Over time, he grew accustomed to the rhythm of life there, but still felt marked by his accent, a factor that ultimately contributed to his return to the United States.
“It was much more of a transition than I thought it was going to be,” he says. “I never stopped being the ‘American guy.’ You are marked by your accent wherever you go. The longer I stayed there, the more I wanted to be seen as an Australian citizen. I was always just the American in the group, and that did weigh on me.”
Returning to the United States has given him the opportunity to conduct and perform at numerous renowned venues across the country, including the aforementioned Carnegie Hall and Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Massachusetts. Now, Shepard is leading the Con Brio Choral Society into the holiday season for their concerts at Valley Regional High School in Deep River on Friday, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m., as well as Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at the venue; for advance tickets, call 860-526-5399 or visit conbrio.org.
Dear Reader,
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Horoscopes Crossword
For the week of December 11 - December 17
ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, you have been looking for some new ways to make some extra money, and now might be the time to start putting your plan in motion. Good fortune awaits.
TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21
Passion is on your mind this week, Taurus. Get together with a spouse or romantic partner and enjoy an evening with just the two of you. Embrace this chance to let the sparks fly.
GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21
A gift would be a wonderful surprise for a loved one or friend this week, Gemini. Perhaps there is something that this person has had an eye on for some time now?
CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22
A group activity may bring new information and people into your life, Cancer. You might meet people from different backgrounds. Keep your eyes and ears open.
LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you might be interested in expanding your horizons. You could think about attending a lecture or seeing a documentary on a particular subject. The education will enlighten.
VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, a long-awaited phone call or text from a person who has been out of touch for some time could come through this week. This may reopen the lines of communication between you both.
DECEMBER 11
Hailee Steinfeld, Actress (29) DECEMBER 12
LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, if finances have been on your mind, now is a good time to read the financial pages or study the stock reports. You also may want to sit down with a financial planner.
SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, keep communication with business partners warm, open and honest. This will help you see your ideas come to fruition. It’s always easier to catch flies with honey than vinegar.
SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, your tasks should go smoothly and quickly this week, particularly any paperwork you may have. Others are willing to help out if you need it.
CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, newfound communication heightens the relationship you have with a romantic partner this week. Feelings and memories are shared willingly, and you may learn something new.
AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18
A number of interesting visitors may come to your home this week, Aquarius. At least one may present some fascinating facts on a subject that is new to you. Enjoy the interaction.
PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, expect some interesting new neighbors to move in shortly. A friend will likely introduce you to these people, and a relationship could bloom.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
DECEMBER 15
Adam Brody, Actor (46) DECEMBER 16
Jennifer Connelly, Actress (55) DECEMBER 13
Taylor Swift, Singer (36) DECEMBER 14
Tori Kelly, Singer (33)
Theo James, Actor (41) DECEMBER 17
Sarah Paulson, Actress (51)
CLUES ACROSS
1. Spiritual leaders
7. A type of solution
13. Fortified wine
14. Edible mollusk
16. They precede C
17. A way to compare
19. Government lawyer
20. “Game of Thrones” actor Ciaran
22. The eighth month (abbr.)
23. Very willing
25. __ ex Machina
26. Makes happy
28. Type of berry
29. A doctrine
30. Popular Dodge truck model
31. Dekagram
33. Naturally occurring solid
34. Company officer
36. Villains
38. Cricket frogs
40. Influential German psychologist
41. Endured
43. A female domestic
44. You can get stuck in one
45. Cigarette (slang)
47. Fiber optics network
48. Group of blood disorders (abbr.)
51. Employee stock ownership plan
53. Belonging to the bottom layer
55. Sound
56. MLB legend Hank
58. Very attractive person
59. Late beloved sportscaster Craig
60. South Dakota
61. Mocking
64. Symbol for gold
65. Longtime Braves pitcher Julio
67. Humor
69. Shawl
70. Preliminary patient assessment
CLUES DOWN
1. Animal disease
2. Commercial
3. Necklace material
4. Containers
5. A way to save for your future
6. Colorado Heisman winner Rashaan
7. Dipped down
8. Head injury (abbr.)
9. Lay about
10. Intestinal
11. Opposite of yes
12. Caused to be loved
13. Spiritual leader of Islam
15. Businesslike
18. Not in
21. Number above the line in a fraction
24. An animal with its own day
26. Pouch
27. Swedish krona
30. Start over
32. Field flowers
35. Fourteen
37. A visual way to interact with a computer
38. Up-to-date
39. Campaigns
42. Touch lightly
43. “Boardwalk Empire” actress Gretchen
46. Violent seizure of property
47. Supporter of the Pope
49. Anxiety
50. Body fluid
52. One who’s faking it
54. Title of respect
55. Chilean city
57. City in central Japan
59. Silk garment
62. A form of dance
63. Automobile
66. The man
68. Justice Dept. head honcho
Word Search
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.
ON THE PROWL WORD SEARCH
ABYSSINIAN CALICO CLOWDER DOMESTICATION FERAL HAIRBALL HISS KITTEN LITTER BOX MEOW PADS PERSIAN POST PURRING QUEEN SCRATCH SIAMESE TABBY
TOMCAT TORTOISE SHELL WHISKERS
Word Scramble
Word Scramble solution for December 4, 2025: PAYROLL
Word Search solution for December 4, 2025
THE DAY
DECEMBER 23, 2025
MOHEGAN SUN ARENA TICKETS: $12
Purchase tickets by scanning the QR code or visiting the Mohegan Sun Box Office
J&P RESTORATION
Fun By The Numbers
Last Week’s Answers
have you hooked
sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to
Here’s How It Works:
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Christmas Past, Present, and Future: My Favorite Holiday Stories
By Liz Egan
Special to Living
The days between Thanksgiving and New Year’s are my favorite time of year. So many holidays, birthdays, and celebrations—joy and good cheer abound. While I am partial because Christmas Day is my birthday, I love everything about these weeks we call “the holidays.”
My most memorable Christmas occurred in 1965. I was 7 years old, and the anticipation of family gatherings, presents, days off from school, and special activities was beyond measure. The 11th of 15 children, I felt there was always much to celebrate: five birthdays; regular visits by relatives, friends, and neighbors; siblings who were home from college; and even the possibility of snow. Our home was bustling and joyful.
As a child, I never understood the financial strain of raising 15 children, nor was it visible to me. There was a tree with beautiful homemade ornaments, pretty glass bulbs, and lots of carefully hung tinsel. There was an advent wreath with candles, lit each evening at dinner. There were Christmas stockings hanging from the banister. There were construction paper chains and Christmas cards attached to the walls and doorways. We baked all types of cookies and pies daily and I was allowed to help. It was a magical time.
What I did not understand was that my parents were struggling financially that year. That summer, they had used their precious savings to create an extension on our home. This large bedroom addition, with three closets and a bathroom, accommodated the youngest six children, including me. In 1965, there were 11 children living at home, with six enrolled in parochial grade school or high school and two in public high school. There were three in college. Eight of us were less than 11 years old.
What went on behind the scenes I may never know, but that was the backdrop for our best Christmas ever.
greenhouses. I assemble and display the wooden creche my husband made many years ago.
My favorite part of the holidays is making, buying, and giving gifts. All my siblings are now over 60 years old or more. Their children and grandchildren are spread throughout the country, each with their own traditions, some inherited from my siblings, some from their spouses. I do my best every year to buy gifts for my grandnieces and grandnephews. I am excited to go to the Lindt chocolates outlet and purchase some gelt, or chocolate coins, for my brother’s grandchildren to celebrate Hannukah.
In my childhood home, we had an extremely specific Christmas morning tradition. We could go and look at our filled stocking and view the gifts, but opening them would not happen for several more hours. White sheets covered the entrances to the living room as a reminder to stay out. Peeking in, we could see an enormous pile of gifts in the center of the floor, unusual because in prior years there would be small stacks of gifts on chairs throughout the room. My excitement was immense as I gaped at what seemed like a 5-foot pile, imagining how many of those gifts would be for me.
Christmas Day was like every other Sunday. My parents expected us to get up, wash, dress, and make our beds. Once all of us were ready, we would attend the 9 a.m. Mass as a family. Afterwards we would head over to Stanley’s Bakery and pick up some fresh hard rolls, crumb cake, and several loaves of white, rye, and pumpernickel bread that would last us the week. Like other Sundays, we would be treated to bacon and eggs for breakfast, with hard rolls or toast, juice, and that delicious New York crumb cake. After the breakfast dishes were finally cleaned up, we lined up at the entrance waiting for permission
to enter and open gifts.
We were invited to go inside and sit on the floor around the pile. It was then that our questions about the solitary pile were answered.
My father explained, “Last night after I went to bed, I heard a big noise.” All of us young children exclaimed, “Santa!” My father continued, “I ran downstairs and saw a big man in the living room carrying a sack.” We repeated our exclaim, “Santa!” He further explained, “Well, I guess that might be so. When he saw me, he dropped his sack of gifts and ran away.” Incredulous, we shouted again, “Santa!”
“I must have scared him away,” my father concluded. “That is why there is this one big pile. Now let us sort it out!”
We cheered and then fell silent in anticipation as my father picked up one gift at a time from the pile and read off the name of the lucky recipient. The process of opening gifts took several hours because each gift was separately announced and opened.
What I know today, from my mother’s own account, was that in 1965, my parents had little money to purchase gifts to give to their children. My mother had bought yarn, and just as we saw her do many years in the past, she knit mittens, hats, and/or
scarves for us all. That year, those mittens along with one game were each child’s only gifts. By putting them in one pile, it seemed like so much more. My excitement grew watching my siblings open games that we would all eventually share—Parcheesi, Clue, Monopoly, Life, Risk, Trouble, Operation, Jeopardy, and Basket. Those games coupled with a group gift of a new Nok-Hockey Board made me feel that I personally had received more toys than ever before. My Christmas stocking held a coloring book that filled it out. Along with a small box of crayons, an orange, and some socks, it was everything I needed.
My parents’ clever idea had not only disguised a meager Christmas but made it the most memorable one for me and my siblings.
My Christmas this year includes remnants from a long history of holiday traditions. Now widowed, I am choosing to do a few things differently, claiming the holiday as my own. I have established what was doable this year and in Christmases to come. I take my time to take down the boxes of decorations. I put up some simple lights and garland around the windows and mantle. I purchase poinsettias from local
Like my mother who shopped for Christmas gifts all year round, I attend local craft fairs to pick up small thoughtful gifts especially when triggered by an item that reminds me of my siblings or friends. I purchase it, tucking it away until I start wrapping these after Thanksgiving. The jams I make throughout the summer will be coupled with our ornaments and my homemade cookies for friends and neighbors. I bake special gifts for the individuals who provide the many services I enjoy throughout the year.
So much of the joy we experience in life, especially at the holidays, is in the choices we make—our attitude, the people we spend time with, and the way we perceive all the gifts we already have.
This year, I will spend the Christmas holiday with my sister Sheila and her family. They have similar traditions, and I do not have to be alone on my birthday. I will be sharing holiday greetings with many people whose traditions may be similar or different from mine before the year is over.
Each time I smile and share a wish for a happy holiday, I make a choice to be kind to all people. By sharing kindness, I am filled with joy. No matter what my current situation or circumstance, I have so much to be grateful for. I have many gifts—family, friends, and community. Most of all, I share in so much love.
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Liz (second from left) celebrates Christmas with her siblings (from left, back) Sheila, Regina, John, and (front) baby Paul.
The Bermel family Christmas tree.
For more Life & Style stories, visit our website, www.zip06.com. To submit events for the calendar, email news@shorepublishing.com.
THURSDAY, DEC. 11
Holiday Jamboree Tea
: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features a choice of two teas, finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $49.95 plus tax and gratuity. For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860-399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.
Red Cross Blood Drive
: 12:45 to 6 p.m. Lutheran Church of Madison, 9 Britton Ln. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Small Glass Gifts Extravaganza:
1 to 8 p.m. RiverFire Glass Studio @ SoMA, 500 Main St., Deep River. Features an open studio session for experienced glass makers to create ornaments, suncatchers, or coasters at their own
pace. Drop-in hours are 1 to 7 p.m., with all work completed by 8 p.m. Cost: $25 for the first ornament and $15 for each additional; $30 per suncatcher (limit two); $40 per coaster (limit two). Additional fees may apply for extra items. For info or to register, visit riverfireglass.com.
Publish Your Own Book and Become an Author
: 4 to
6 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $25. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.
An Evening of Lessons and Carols
: 6 p.m. Mercy by the Sea, The Lyons Chapel, 167 Neck Rd., Madison. Features music by students from the Yale Institute of Sacred Music. Holiday fare and shopping follow at 7 p.m. For info or to register (required), contact 203-245-0401 or acurtis@mercybythesea.org.
Wild Rise Workshop: The Big Rise
: 6 to 7 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St. Features a hands-on workshop and introduction to sourdough bread. Participants will take home a sourdough starter kit, a starter care card, and a recipe for sourdough. Sponsored by the Friends of the Chester Public Library. To register, contact the Chester Public Library at 860-526-0018 or
Calendar for the Week of December 11, 2025
library@chesterct.org. For info, visit chesterctlibrary.com/adultprograms.
How to Use Gemini Artificial Intelligence
: 7 to 8 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $25. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.
Concert by Martin Sexton
: 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.
How to Use Chat GPT AI: A Basic Introduction
: 8 to
9 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $25. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.
Madison Historical Society Presents New Holiday Exhibits
See page 23
A Snail-Mail Holiday:
Throughout the month of December, the Madison Historical Society (MHS) presents a new exhibit,
Selections from the MHS Collection of Greeting Cards
. For the first time, exhibits are on display in two Madison locations—the Allis-Bushnell tearoom, 853 Boston Post Road, and at the circulation desk case of the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Road. Each location will display a different array of Christmas and New Year’s Eve greeting cards from the MHS collection.
The cards date from the Gilded Age through the Great Depression. Some are handmade using techniques such as decoupage; others are among the nation’s first commercially printed cards. Visitors can view the cards during the Allis-Bushnell House open houses on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and during Scranton Library operating hours. As always, open house admission is free; donations are welcome.
For more information, email director@ madisonhistory.org
This Christmas card is part of the Madison Historical Society exhibit, A Snail-Mail Holiday: Selections from the MHS Collection of Greeting Cards.
Photo courtesy of the Madison Historical Society
Photo courtesy of the Madison Historical Society
Photo courtesy of the Madison Historical Society
The Christmas cards on display date from the Gilded Age through the Great Depression.
The exhibits can be viewed at the AllisBushnell tearoom and the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library circulation desk case.
Page Turners
Dorie'sAnytimeCakes
ByDorieGreenspan
Every other week, we invite local booksellers to submit suggestions for the best books on shelves now—it’s all part of our mission to keep our readers informed, up-to-date, and entertained. View previous Page Turners at www.zip06.com/pageturners.
TheApprenticeshipofAndrewWyeth
ByGeneBarretta
Dorie’s Anytime Cakes
“When it comes to happiness, you can count on cake,” says Dorie Greenspan, cookbook author and baker extraordinaire. In her latest cookbook, , there are recipes for bundt cakes, loaf cakes, salty cakes—as well as frostings, fillings, creams, and crunches. From the coffee-chocolate chunk bundt, a berry yogurt, or even Pierre Herme’s lemon cake with olive oil, there is something delicious in here for everyone. Each recipe contains Dorie’s signature, charmingly detailed baking descriptions loaded with personal anecdotes, which create a delightful recipe book.
—
Christine Griswold Inn Store
Essex
CountdowntoChristmas
ByAlexandraStewart
A beautifully illustrated advent treasury of 24 timeless holiday stories, poems, and songs to be shared with the whole family in the countdown to Christmas. December is here and there is something special in the air! Ride on the Snow Queen’s sleigh, learn why the Christmas tree keeps its leaves, discover the elves secretly making shoes in the night, and introduce the next generation to classics like and Clement C. Moore’s classic poem, (
Celebrate American artist Andrew Wyeth in this beautifully illustrated book for those who are both young and young at heart. Andrew Wyeth was one of the greatest American painters of the 20th century who lived and painted in the rural hills of Pennsylvania and the coast of southern Maine. Take a journey through his creative childhood that shaped the painter and adult he became. This thoughtful book is both interesting and heartwarming.
— Christine Griswold Inn Store
Essex
TheSecretChristmasLibrary
ByJennyColgan
). With stories wonderfully retold by Alexandra Stewart and beautifully illustrated by Freya Hartas, this festive Christmas treasury will be enjoyed for years to come.
—
The Mitten ’Twas the Night Before Christmas A Visit from St. Nicholas Christine Griswold Inn Store
Essex
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a wonderful Christmas read by Jenny Colgan. This seasonal book is sure to delight any bibliophile. Mystery, romance, and the holiday spirit abound when Mirren Sutherland, an antiquarian book hunter, is hired by Jamie McKennon, a handsome laird of a Highland clan, to search for a rare book in his crumbling castle. The rare book is so valuable it could save the entire estate! I always love reading one of Jenny Colgan’s books, especially this time of year, as it is a welcome escape from all the hustle and bustle of the season.
— Christine Griswold Inn Store
Essex
Continued from page 21
FRIDAY, DEC. 12
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.
Holiday Bites and Beverages
: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, 2 Bridge St. Bring a gift card worth $25 or more from a local business or big box retailer in lieu of a registration fee. Donations benefit the Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services. Presented by the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce. For info, visit goschamber.com.
: 4 p.m.
Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a program for ages 5 to 12 with a gingerbread story followed by building a miniature gingerbread house to take home. Materials will be provided but supplies and space may be limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
:
7 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Features a performance of Sir John Rutter’s Christmas music in celebration of his 80th birthday. Performed by Con Brio Festival Orchestra and Con Brio Chorus with music director Chris Shepard and guest soprano soloist Louise Fauteux. A second concert takes place on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. Tickets: $40 general admission, $15 for students. For info or tickets, call 860-526-5399 or visit conbrio.org.
: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Café, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Admission: $5. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.
: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
FRIDAY, DEC. 12 THROUGH
SUNDAY, DEC. 14
: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Shoreline Theater Academy, 61 E. Main St., Clinton. Presented by the Shoreline Theater Academy's advanced musical theater troupe. Tickets: $22 for adults, $11.50 for students. Service fees apply. To purchase tickets, visit kidzkonnectionct.org/tickets. For info, contact Kidz Konnection at 860-227-2363 or kidzkonnectionct@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, DEC. 13
: 8 to 10:30 a.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd. Menu: pancakes, sausages, orange juice, and coffee. Tickets: $8 for adults, $5 for children, available at the door. Children can visit with Santa. Bring a camera for photos. Sponsored by Circle Nursery School. For info, call
Enjoy a Pancake Breakfast with Santa
Press Release from North Madison Congregational Church
Pancakes taste better when someone else cooks and serves them to you. With a guest appearance by Santa, the treat gets even sweeter for the holidays.
The North Madison Congregational Church, located at 1271 Durham Road, Madison, invites the public for the the Circle Nursery School annual pancake breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 8 to 10:30 a.m. This event, which has been going on for over 20 years, is open to the whole community and not just for families with young children.
Held in Friendship Hall, the breakfast of fluffy pancakes, maple syrup, sausages, orange juice, and coffee are just the beginning—whipped cream and chocolate chips are available to create a decadent delight.
Downstairs in a Circle Nursery classroom, Santa will be awaiting children who want to share their Christmas wishes or pose for a picture—so be sure to bring a camera. This annual event is a nostalgic way to get into the holiday spirit!
Tickets are available at the door for $10 for adults and $6 for children. For tickets, visit www.northmadison cc.org/cnsevents. For more information, call Kathy at 203421-0997.
Kathy at 203-421-0997 or visit northmadisoncc.org/cnsevents.
Babysitter Training
: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tri-Town Youth Services, 56 High St., Deep River. Covers skills training to assess and maintain a child's life following an emergency until the arrival of emergency service personnel. Upon completion of the course, participants will be CPR-, First Aid-, and AED-certified for two years by the American Heart Association. Cost: $85, includes instruction, the American Heart Association Pediatric Book, and certificate. Space is limited. For info or to register, call Abby at 860-526-3600 or visit ttysb.org/events.
: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For children ages 3 to 12. Each child must be registered to receive supplies to make a graham cracker house. Arrive 15 minutes before the program starts. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-8722 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
Holiday Cookie Decorating
: Two sessions: 11 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Old Saybrook Parks and Recreation Center, 308 Main St. All the cookies are baked fresh and donated by Pursuit of Pastry on Boston Post Road. Cost: $15 for residents, $25 for nonresidents. For info or to register, visit the fall activities/events link at oldsaybrookct.myrec.com/info/activities.
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 children are welcome. Book: written and illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal. 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.
: 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Participants must provide their own supplies. For info, including the supply list, or to register (required), call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.accountsupport.com.
: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features a choice of two teas, finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $40 plus tax and gratuity. For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.
Met in HD Live:
Zonia’s Rainforest Andrea Chénier
: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 210 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
See page 24
Photo courtesy of Circle Nursery School Children meet with Santa Claus during the annual Circle Nursery pancake breakfast with Santa.
Junior Chefs: Mini Gingerbread House Building
Con Brio Choral Society Christmas Concert 2025
Open Mic with Terri Lachance
Concert by Peter Asher
Annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa
Legally Blonde: The Musical
Festive Graham Cracker Houses
Alan James Watercolor Class
Holiday Jamboree Tea
New Haven Celebrates Claire’s Corner Copia
New Haven Independent
The comforting warmth one feels on entering Claire’s Corner Copia, the iconic vegetarian eatery on the corner of Chapel and College streets, will be in abundance in the New Haven Museum ballroom when restauranter Claire Criscuolo is feted for 50 years of good will and great food during “Health, Happiness, Purpose and Peace: Celebrating Claire’s” on Monday, Dec. 15, at 6 p.m. The free event will also stream on Facebook Live. A reception will follow. The event immediately follows the annual meeting of the New Haven Museum board of directors at 5:30 p.m. In conversation with Paul Bass, founding editor of the , Criscuolo will share memories, heartfelt stories, and some favorite recipes from her latest book,
50 Vegetarian Recipes from 50 Years at Claire’s Corner Copia
In what she terms as “this crazy experiment,” Criscuolo, a registered nurse, and her late husband, Frank, a musician, opened Claire’s Corner Copia in 1975 simply wanting to bring real, clean food to New Haveners while blending Italian, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Greek influences. “We believed that if we can eat together and share our stories, we’ll realize that really, we all want the same things: good health, happiness, purpose, and peace.”
Clearly, leading with the heart has been a recipe for success for Criscuolo. Heralded as “one of the 10 best heart-healthy restaurants in America” by MSNBC, Claire’s has received accolades from national press and fans alike, noting the restaurant’s ability to pivot to meet the needs of the times, and the community, while dishing up delicious healthy food.
“Our mission at Claire’s Corner Copia is based on the understanding that we can and will help others who need a hand up,” Criscuolo says.
Among the restaurant’s numerous philanthropic efforts are support for New Haven Reads, Clifford Beers Child Guidance Clinic, Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital, All our Kin, Covenant House, Hole in the Wall Camp, Yale Child Study, YNHH NICU, Camp Kesem at Yale, Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut, Marrakech, Friend’s Center, and Connecticut Mental Health Center. New Haven children are their focus. In 2021, Claire’s started Someone Cares Closet, in partnership with Carolina Perrott of Yale Child Study Center.
Continued from page 23
Yule Tide Songs and Carols:
4 p.m. Lutheran Church of Madison, 9 Britton Ln. Marks the Opera Theater of Connecticut’s 40th anniversary. Features a concert of festive carols, timeless songs, and opera favorites, accompanied by pianist Eric Trudel. A holiday reception with wine, cheese, and seasonal treats follows. Tickets: $40 for adults, $20 for those under 18. For info or tickets, call 860-669-8999 or visit operatheaterofct.org.
About Claire Criscuolo
The New Haven Register
A former columnist for and author of four cookbooks, Criscuolo is a passionate educator and advocate for healthy, homemade vegetarian cuisine. She frequently lectures at Yale University and Quinnipiac University and is an associate fellow at Hopper College.
Parade
Lessons and Carols : 6 p.m. Parade kicks off at the corner of Elm Street and Coulter Street, Old Saybrook. Those who want to carry torches are asked to be at the Liberty Bank on Coulter Street by 5:45 p.m. The parade marches down Main Street to the firehouse. Christmas music will play with fife and drum corps from all over New England and Christmas-themed floats designed by local businesses will be part of the parade. Includes an appearance by Santa Claus. For info, visit oldsaybrooktorchlight.com.
: 4 p.m. Church of the Holy Advent, 81 East Main St., Clinton. Attendees are advised to arrive early. The public is welcome. A reception in the parish hall immediately follows. For info, visit holyadventclinton.org/ongoing-events.
Sweet Saturday Nights
: Paddywhack: 7 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Tickets: $10. Service fees apply. Refreshments are available for purchase. For info or tickets, visit musicnowfoundation.org/events.
“Health,
About Paul Bass
Bass, the founding editor of the , has covered the city for 45 years. He is co-author, with Douglas W. Rae, of
New Haven IndepenMurder in the dent
Model City: The Black Panthers, Yale, and the Redemption of a Killer
about the 1969 murder of a Black Panther in New Haven and the resulting trials and FBI revelations surrounding the case. His articles from 1980 to 2004 are in a dedicated archive housed at the Manuscripts and Archives section of Yale University’s Sterling Memorial Library.
About the New Haven Museum
The New Haven Museum has been collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its inception as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862. Located at 114 Whitney Avenue, the museum brings more than 375 years of New Haven history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs, and outreach. As a Blue Star Museum, the New Haven Museum offers the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve, free admission all year. For more information, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.
SATURDAY, DEC. 13 AND SUNDAY, DEC. 14
: 4 p.m. Madison Lyric Stage, Deacon John Grave House grounds, 581 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a double bill in celebration of Christmas. For info or tickets, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.
St. Nicholas The Gift of the Magi and Gays in Space
: Saturday, 8:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 and 6 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.
Press release from the New Haven Museum
Photo courtesy of Paul Bass
Paul Bass holds an event in conversation with Claire Criscuolo in
Happiness, Purpose and Peace: Celebrating Claire's."
Photo by Lisa Nichols
Claire Criscuolo sits in front of her restaurant, Claire's Corner Copia, in New Haven. She celebrates the 50th anniversary of the opening of the restaurant.
Old Saybrook Torchlight
Shoreline Soul Returns to Guilford for a Holiday Concert
Get ready for an afternoon overflowing with joy, uplift, and the kind of music that sparks the soul.
Music at the Meetinghouse welcomes back Shoreline Soul for its 2025 gospel holiday concert—a joyous celebration of community, spirit, and song.
The concert takes place Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 122 Broad Street, Guilford. Doors open at 2:30 p.m.
Led by professional singer and choir director Angela Clemmons, this season’s event brings together a choir of over 100 singers from across the shoreline and beyond who participated in Shoreline Soul’s five-session community gospel workshop. The event features spirit-stirring gospel songs delivered with soul and overflowing with heart and conviction.
This year, Shoreline Soul is thrilled to welcome back vocalist Beatrice Somerville, whose commanding voice and radiant presence lift the room every time she sings.
More than a concert, this gathering is a shared experience of grace—where voices unite, hearts lift, and the true spirit of the
Continued from page 24
SUNDAY, DEC. 14
Holiday Home Décor Workshop
season comes alive.
Admission is free. A freewill offering will be collected to support Shoreline Soup Kitchen and Pantries, an interfaith service
: 1 to 3:30 p.m. Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main St., Centerbrook. Students will make five holiday home décor crafts. Students will also receive a kit with white cardstock, die cut pieces, coordinating colored cardstock, and any other supplies needed to make holiday crafts at home. Cost: $36 for members, $40 for nonmembers. Includes all materials. For info, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.
Con Brio Choral Society Christmas Concert 2025
:
3 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Features a performance of Sir John Rutter’s Christmas music in celebration of his 80th birthday. Performed by Con Brio Festival Orchestra and Con Brio Chorus with music director Chris Shepard and guest soprano soloist Louise Fauteux. Tickets: $40 general admission, $15 for students. For info or tickets, call 860-526-5399 or visit conbrio.org.
Shoreline Soul: Gospel Holiday Concert:
3 p.m. First Congregational Church, 122 Broad St. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Features a performance by Shoreline Soul, a community gospel choir led by Angela Clemmons, with guest vocalist Beatrice Somerville. Presented as part of the Music at the Meetinghouse series. Admission is free but a freewill offering is welcome. Proceeds benefit Shoreline Soup Kitchen and Pantries. For info, contact 203-619-1415 or shorelinesoul@gmail.com..
that provides food and fellowship to those in need.
For more information, call Angela Clemmons at 203-619-1415.
The New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band
: 4 p.m. The Morgan School, 71 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Part of the George Flynn Classical Concerts Series. Free, but tickets must be ordered online. For info or tickets, visit georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com.
Concert by the Entwyned Early Music Group: 'Twas In The Moon of Wintertime
: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.
Live Nativity
: 4:30 and 6 p.m. Trinity Lutheran Church, 109 Main St., Centerbrook. Features live animals, music, and refreshments. For info, call 860-767-0028 or visit tlccenterbrook.org.
MONDAY, DEC. 15
Red Cross Blood Drive
: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Concert by Nick Fradiani with Nick Fradiani Sr.
:
7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Tickets: $54. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
TUESDAY,
DEC. 16
Fireside Holiday Tea
: Noon to 2 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features a choice of two teas, finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $40 plus tax and gratuity. For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860-399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.
in HD Encore:
: 10 a.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 210 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
Cookie Decorating and Wine Night
: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. For ages 21 and over. Features a 15-minute pre-decorating mini workshop with pastry chef Lily and a cookie-decorating session while sipping wine. Participants will receive four six-inch gingerbread cookies to decorate and take home Cost: $50. Eventbrite fees apply. For info or reservations, visit madisonbeachhotel-curio.eventbrite.com or madisonbeachhotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings.
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.
Press Release from Shoreline Soul
Photo by Robin Buckley, Riverstone Images
The Shoreline Soul choir
Photo by Kelley Norcia Photography Professional singer and choir director Angela Clemmons leads Shoreline Soul's holiday concert.
Met
Gingerbread
Andrea Chénier
Guilford Library Names Beverly Schirmeier December Artist
mal library hours. All artwork is for sale.
Searching For Light
The Guilford Free Library artist for the month of December is Westbrook artist Beverly Schirmeier. She will be showcasing her oil and pastel paintings in , through Dec. 30 at the Guilford Free Library, 67 Park Street. The exhibit is open to public during nor-
Continued from page 25
Mistletoe and Martinis 2025
Schirmeier holds elected artist memberships in the Lyme Art Association, Guilford Art League, Essex Art Association, Academic Artist Association, Connecticut Pastel Society, and the Madison and Clinton art societies. She is the former president of the Madison Art Society where she served for 11 years as well as
the secretary, vice president, and president of the Lyme Art Association. She has been involved in the arts for over 50 years.
Schirmeier’s artwork has been exhibited in galleries and public buildings, in collaboration with other artists and in solo shows. She says she loves capturing the light in plein air paintings done on location and still life subjects. Her paintings,
TUESDAY, DEC. 16 AND
created in both oil and in pastels, reside in numerous collections and can be seen in regional art club shows and various other venues.
For more information, email Bschir meier@yahoo.com or visit beverly schirmeierfineart.com.
Comic Crew: :
: 6 to 9 p.m. Essex Yacht Club, 13 Novelty Ln. Hosted by the Connecticut River Museum (CRM), 67 Main St., Essex. Features a selection of martinis, hors d’oeuvres, music, and more. Tickets start at $100. For info or tickets, visit ctrivermuseum.org.
Festive Holiday Gathering and Mindfulness Meditation
: 7 p.m. Angela Hubley Hall, First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln. Hosted by the Madison Happiness Club. Features a guided mindfulness meditation led by Kerry Shay with time for reflection and connection. Participants may bring a snack to share. Light refreshments provided. Free. For info, visit facebook.com/madisonhappinessclub.
Concert by Nick Fradiani with Nick Fradiani Sr.
: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Tickets: $54. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17
Kate Classic Film: Holiday Jamboree Tea
: Tuesday, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, 2 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-5100453 or visit thekate.org.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17
: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features a choice of two teas, finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $40 plus tax and gratuity. For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.
Red Cross Blood Drive Holiday
: Noon to 4:45 p.m. Valley-Shore YMCA, 201 Spencer Plains Rd., Westbrook. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features activities for ages 8 to 12 inspired by the graphic novel series, including games, contests, crafts, and related projects. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
:
6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd. Features a Celtic performance to celebrate the annual Giving Tree Reception. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Acoustic Artist Storyteller: The Bards of Gungywamp Concert by the Old Lyme Band Wings of Fire Wings of Fire
: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
To submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email to news@shorepublishing.com. For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website zip06.com. The deadline for submissions is noon, eight days prior to the publication date.
Photo courtesy of Beverly Schirmeier
Photo courtesy of Beverly Schirmeier
Pastel Big Roller Taking Off
Press release from the Guilford Free Library
Valley Football Players Named All-Conference
This Fall
By Gabby Maljanian
Editor
Several Valley football players were named to the AllPequot Conference Team for their efforts on the gridiron this fall. Eli Torres, Sam Zelek, CJ Zapatka, Charlie Zelek, Charlie Zapatka, and Connor Dickson were all named to the First Team, and Chase King was an Honorable Mention.
Several Valley Athletes Attend CAS-CIAC Leadership Conference
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
A group of athletes from Valley Regional High School attended the Connecticut Association of Schools-Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CASCIAC) Annual Leadership Conference on Dec. 5 at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU). Student-athletes learned leadership skills and strategies with colleagues from all over Connecticut.
Keynote speaker Brandon Sherrod launched the day by reminding students and advisors that leadership isn’t just a title — it’s a daily choice and a lifelong pursuit. Students then took part in dynamic breakout sessions covering a wide range of topics, including College Prep, Community Spirit and Positivity, Student
Voice for Growth, College Athletics and Recreation, Mental Health, Leadership and Advocacy, Financial Literacy, and Teamwork through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Valley’s future leaders learned how to take leadership to the next level. Spending the day with other student-leaders from across the state, the athletes participated in hands-on workshops, seminars, and presentations focused on sportsmanship, communication, and leadership skills for both now and the future. The studentleaders returned to Valley with tools to make the school’s athletic programs even stronger on and off the field, which is what the Warrior Way is all about: growth, leadership, and leaving a positive mark wherever you go.
Photo courtesy of Valley Regional Athletics
Several Valley student-athletes attended the CAS-CIAC Annual Leadership Conference on Dec. 5.
Sports
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier
Charlie Zapatka (11) was named to the All-Pequot Conference First Team for Valley-Lyme/Old Lyme football this fall.
Dickson Overcomes Obstacles to Shine on the Gridiron
By Kellyn Kolber
Special to the Courier
For Connor Dickson, what started as a love of Madden video games ultimately blossomed into a successful football career, lifelong friendships, and a genuine passion for the sport. In middle school, when the COVID-19 virus forced him into quarantine, Madden inspired Connor to join the high school football squad, and he immediately knew he would cherish it forever.
“I knew that it was something I wanted to continue for as long as I could,” he explains. “The reason I love football so much is not only because the games are fun and rewarding, but also because of the people that I got to grow so close with over our seasons together.”
Beyond the connections he’s formed, Connor has also made a tangible impact on the field for the Valley-Lyme/Old Lyme football squad. This year, he earned Firstteam All-Pequot Conference honors and posted impressive stats. In just six games, he scored 20 touchdowns, 10 passing and 10 rushing. Connor and Head Coach Phil Cohen partly attribute this success to his experience playing on both defense and offense, as he served as the team’s quarterback and middle linebacker. These roles certainly complement each other, and Connor has grown into a smarter player from taking on both.
“When I am playing on defense, I understand the kind of things that are going through the other quarterback’s head,” he shares. “I get the same effect when I am the one playing quarterback.”
Aside from his skill and intelligence on the field, Cohen insists that Connor’s leadership was what truly made him stand out.
“The underclassmen as well as the upperclassmen looked up to him and followed his lead,” Cohen reflects. “He has that natural leadership ability that you just can’t teach.”
As a senior captain, Connor always tried to lead by example, consistently giving 100% effort and showing up for his teammates. He also prioritized connecting with everyone on the team, particularly the
Schedules
Sports Person Week of the
underclassmen, to foster trust and team chemistry.
“I made some tight one-on-one bonds with a lot of younger players, which helped me become someone that they could come to with questions, and also allowed me to be the guy who can pick them up if they aren’t playing well or struggling somewhere else,” Connor says.
Despite all of the success and impressive accolades, the season didn’t come without its challenges for Connor — major ones, for that matter. In early November, Connor faced a season-ending collarbone injury.
“At first, I thought it was some kind of stinger, and I got up to call the next play. When the ball was snapped, I realized that I couldn’t move my left arm, and after the play, I felt my collarbone,” he recalls. “I immediately knew it was broken, that my season was over. That was all I could think about.”
This realization was devastating, but Connor found ways to push through.
“At first it was difficult,” he says, “but a lot of my teammates and closest friends helped me through it. Spending time with them helped clear my mind.”
Even from the sidelines, Connor still found ways to make an impact on the team. Max White, a freshman quarterback, filled in, and Connor made sure to support him through that overwhelming process.
“I was at just about every practice helping Max get up to speed,” Connor says.
“Also on game days, although I wasn’t on the field, I was still able to be a leader from the sidelines and help people get into the right frame of mind to play a football game.”
Cohen respected this resilience and appreciated Connor’s team-first mentality.
and play with his brothers, but he made it to every single practice, every film session,” says Cohen. “He even wore a headset on the sideline, so he was still that driving force as a leader for us.”
Looking ahead, Connor hopes to continue his football career at the collegiate level, pursuing a major in film or education. He has not decided on a specific college, but as of now, he’s primarily looking at small schools in the New England area.
Cohen, admiring Connor’s skill and dedication to academics, has no doubt that he’ll be a coveted athlete in the recruiting world.
“He puts in as much work in the class-
room as he does on the field,” Cohen explains. “He’s a really bright student, and I think he can use that as a benefit to help him get into the school that he wants to get
Even with so much to look forward to, Connor recognizes that Valley football will always hold a special place in his heart. On top of the bonds he’s formed, he’s thankful for the lessons the experience has provided.
“Through my time playing football at Valley, I have learned that no matter somebody’s background, you can find something in common with them and build a friendship,” he reflects. “A lot of my teammates have grown up in places and situations that were different from mine. At the end of the day, though, we are still one family.”
Boys’ Basketball
Girls’ Ice Hockey
Photo courtesy of Connor Dickson
Connor Dickson persevered through injury to be a strong and talented leader on and off the field for the Valley/Lyme-Old Lyme football team.
When Winter Settles Over the Sound
Most folks think fishing ends when the cold settles into your bones and the last of the autumn color drains from the salt marshes. They imagine Long Island Sound turning quiet—boats wrapped in shrinkwrap like half-frozen ghosts, marinas empty, gulls circling over nothing but steel-gray water. But ask the old salts, the ones who’ve weathered more winters than they care to count, and they’ll tell you the truth: the fishing never ends. It only changes shape, like the tide bending around a point. When December arrives and the final migrating stripers nose their way south, that’s when another season quietly begins. We shift our boots, tighten our hoods, and turn our attention upriver. Holdover striped bass—the schoolies that don’t bother making the long trip down the coast—settle into the dark bends of the Housatonic, the Thames, and the Connecticut. These fish don’t give themselves up easily. The winter river is a place of long shadows and slow water, where you learn patiencewhether you want to or not. You cast soft plastics as if you’re trying not to wake the river itself, letting the lure slip and glide, barely moving. Some of the best fish of the cold months come after sunset, when the whole world seems to hush except for the hiss of line through cold guides. And while the Sound’s surface may look lonely, don’t think the boats are gone for good. The hardiest captains—those whose blood runs half diesel and half seawater—keep running east toward Block Island and Coxes Ledge, chasing cod, pollock, and bust-you-up tautog until the last possible moment. I’ve known crews who’ll chip ice off the bow with a gaff just for the thrill of hearing “Fish on!” when every
CAPTAIN MORGAN’S
Fishing report
sane person is home with soup on the stove.
Closer to shore, winter brings its own small joys. White perch gather in brackish creeks, where their silver sides flash like coins in dark water. Winter flounder, patient and unbothered by the cold, keep a quiet following among those who still believe in the simple pleasure of a light tap on the rod tip. On still, bright days, the mud warms just enough to stir them, and the old-timers know exactly which coves to haunt.
But truth be told, many Sound fishermen trade the salt for fresh water this time of year. The inland rivers—the Farmington, Salmon, and Blackledge—are where we chase holdover trout with cold fingers and steaming breath. Some head for the coves and shallow lakes where pickerel and pike still strike like summer never left. When the ice sets up thick enough (and it doesn’t every winter), we march across the frozen skin of small lakes pulling sleds of tip-ups, laughing like we’re boys again.
And then there are the ones who can’t let their boats go, not even for a season. You’ll find them in heated barns or tucked between shrink-wrapped hulls at the marina, working on gelcoat, rewiring electronics, or tying bucktails at a makeshift workbench. They say they’re doing “winter maintenance,” but let’s be honest—it’s how they keep their sanity until spring. Every turn of a wrench is a little reminder that March isn’t as far off as it feels.
Winter also brings a fisherman’s version of community. We gather in club halls and bait
shops for tying nights, seminars, and salty conversations you can’t find anywhere else. We talk tides, knot tricks, conservation updates, and the finer points of whether a chartreuse teaser out-fishes white on a moon tide. Old arguments flare up, old stories get told again, and nobody minds. It’s the warmth we choose when the water has no warmth to give.
For some of us, the season’s biggest thrill comes with the herring runs. When Atlantic or sea herring (commonly called to distinguish them from prohibited river herring) show up in numbers, harbors light up with sabiki rigs, headlamps, and the soft clatter of excited fishermen filling buckets for bait or the skillet. It’s a small tradition, but winter is built of small traditions that keep the salt in our veins.
And yes, a few of us still walk the beaches, even in January winds that cut like a dull knife. There’s solace in a quiet stretch of shoreline when most of the world has forgotten it. You might find the occasional holdover bass nosing along an outflow, but even when you don’t, the beach scouts itself. Winter storms move sand, carve cuts, expose old rock piles—knowledge that pays off big when the spring run fires up.
So, when folks ask me, “What do fishermen do in winter?” I just smile. They think fishing is something tied to warm air and green marshes. But out here on Long Island Sound, fishing is a yearround conversation with the water, and even in January, the dialogue doesn’t stop. It just gets quieter, deeper, and maybe a little more honest.
Winter may drive most people indoors, but for those of us who’ve spent a lifetime reading the tide, it simply offers a new chapter—one written in slow rivers, cold mornings, and a kind of peace you can’t find in summer’s bustle. And by the time the first osprey returns and the herring gulls start screaming over the warming Sound, we’ll already be there, boots in the sand, lines ready, hearts unthawed.
Because a true fisherman, like this old salt who’s seen a few seasons come and go, never stopsnot even in winter.
On The Water
High pressure retreated offshore as a coastal low formed along the mid-Atlantic coast, passing southeast of the area. As meteorological winter kicked in, north of the I-95 corridor saw snowfall bringing snow to the north and mostly rain south of the turnpike. High pressure returned with the exception of a cold frontal passage that alerted any winter lovers as to what might lay ahead. Pre-dawn air temperatures dove to below freezing, insuring any snow that might have fallen would have a sticking base. Daytime temperatures rose into the 40s as the days wore on but generally hung into the high 30s producing a mix of sun, clouds, and scattered days of precipitation. Meanwhile, Long Island Sound saw small craft advisories accompanied by gusty northwest winds to 35 knots, two to four-to-five-foot seas, and water temperatures around 45 degrees before southerly winds calmed things down.
Once your bones have thawed from a tide of Atlantic herring fishing, try this delicious Maine traditional pan-fried herring with onions recipe - a staple in fishing camps and coastal homes. The ingredients are simple: fresh herring fillets, salt, pepper, flour, butter, sliced onions, and a splash
of cider vinegar. To make it, dredge fillets in flour seasoned with salt and pepper, fry in butter until crisp, remove fish - sauté sliced onions in the same pan, deglaze with a spoon of vinegar, and pour over the fish. It is ideally eaten with boiled potatoes or brown bread.
Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.
For holiday gifts and all things fishy, including the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2026 licenses/permits, and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call 203-245-8665 for updated fall/winter hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer, and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better.
Tight Lines, Captain Morgan captainmorganusa@ hotmail.com captainmorganfish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa
Photo courtesy of Captain Morgan
An agile, silent competitor and one that finds Atlantic herring as appealing in the wild as any old salt does, harbor seals can be seen close to shore and occasionally by harbor channels catching these food fish.
Real Estate Transactions
BRANFORD
96 Damascus Rd:
Roopa R. and Srihari V. Gottumukkala of Branford to Nasar Raza, $850,000 on 11/20/2025
7 Dogwood Ct:
Eugene J.
Borysewicz and Valerie J. Clark of Branford to Manacchio Holdings LLC, $345,000 on 11/13/2025
100 Hemlock Rd Unit 4-2:
Anthony J. Young of Branford to 100 Hemlock LLC, $295,000 on 11/17/2025
1 Hoadley Rd:
Franklin Z. Chen and
Yifang Pan of Branford to Cynthia Nardella and Alexis Jeanette, $375,000 on 11/21/2025
69 Ivy St:
Donna M. Paranto of Branford to Dean Russo and Brenda Wippick, $150,000 on 11/18/2025
60 Maple St Unit 42:
Peter and
Annette Roding of Branford to Gail L. Brekke, $1,500,000 on 11/17/2025
7 Old Depot Rd:
Christopher W. Moore of Chester to Edward M. Alexandro and Madalyn G. Conforti, $975,000 on 11/17/2025
CLINTON
15 Alden Dr:
Gitsit Real Prop Bbplc1 L of Clinton to Christopher P. Ciscato, $439,000 on 11/13/2025
27 E Main St:
D A P Realty Assoc Inc of Clinton to Theodore and Genna Kanaras, $850,000 on 11/17/2025
6 Hemlock Hill Rd:
Jane L. Stamler of Clinton to Scott and Virginia Katz, $455,000 on 11/17/2025
72 Long Hill Rd:
Thomas J. Walsh of Clinton to Lauren A. Fisco and Gerald W. Delise, $417,000 on 11/13/2025
26 Ninety Rod Rd:
172
Cheyla M. Mathew of East Haven to Megan O. Lendroth, $270,000 on 11/14/2025
Ral North Haven LLC of East Haven to Helen L. Hardee and Steven J. Eckert, $602,911 on 11/13/2025
Giovannina Assoc LLC of East Haven to 672 Main Street LLC, $575,000 on 11/20/2025
Patricia Derenzo of East Haven to Everett Smith, $295,000 on 11/17/2025
Landmark Rlty Group LLC of East Haven to Michael Candelora, $300,000 on 11/18/2025
Annlore Dolecki of Branford to Gabianna Const LLC, $325,000 on 11/20/2025
Lisa Fricker of Branford to Kimberly A. Planeta, $225,000 on 11/18/2025
Bailey And Girald of Branford to Armand Gagliardi, $200,000 on 11/21/2025
40 Midwood Rd: 16 Pine Orchard Rd Unit 14: 5 S Main St Unit 501: 7 S Main St Unit 501:
Bailey And Girald of Branford to Armand Gagliardi, $200,000 on 11/21/2025
W Main St:
Vicco Mgmt Re I LLC of Branford to Genco 755 Owner LLC, $1,850,000 on 11/21/2025
Walden Green Rd Unit 339:
William J. and Sharon M. Reynolds of Branford to Regina Y. Park, $263,500 on 11/18/2025
Mildred J. Steinfeldt of Clinton to J R Maxx Properties LLC, $345,000 on 11/18/2025
70 Riverside Dr Unit D5010:
Don
Wells of Clinton to Hammonasset Yacht Clb LLC, $35,000 on 11/17/2025
21 Stonewall Ln:
Stacie Scogno of Clinton to Lrk Holdings LLC, $865,000 on 11/18/2025
EAST HAVEN
Highpoint Asset Mgmt LLC of East Haven to Zhu Jingzhi and Ngawang Namdak, $275,000 on 11/13/2025
Laudano Ft and Sherri A. Laudano of East Haven to Valerie Jamison, $440,000 on 11/14/2025
ESSEX
6 Birch Ln Unit L: 71 Charter Oak Ave:
John R. and Claire E. Hart of East Haven to Marilyn Correa, $150,000 on 11/13/2025
David and Nicole Incerto of East Haven to Doris Lopez-Villavicencio and Luis Vera, $437,000 on 11/18/2025
Coleman St Unit B16:
Brenda O. Milkofsky of Essex to Tracey E. Quintin, $480,000 on 11/21/2025
CHESTER
Wellesley Dr: 50 Bokum Rd:
Shaun J. Berner of Branford to Carolyn J. and Austin T. Connell, $750,000 on 11/13/2025
Heidi Wilmot of Chester to James H. Harris, $375,000 on 11/17/2025
Ralph Delucia of East Haven to Etchell Cuaycong, $280,000 on 11/18/2025
Dodge Ave:
Travis Williams of East Haven to Franklin G. Jimenez and Mercedes E. Vintimilla, $320,000 on 11/19/2025
Foote Rd:
Constanza V. Mcnellis of East Haven to Jade P. Salvattore, $335,000 on 11/19/2025
Francis St:
Gary S. Knowles of Guilford to Vaughn C. Knowles, $400,000 on 11/14/2025
Peter J. Moleske of Guilford to Christopher Bakes, $440,000 on 11/17/2025
E Liberty St: 16 Hickory Hill Dr: 14 Maple St:
Margaret P. Breslin of Chester to Bruce R. Caron and Sally A. Stamos, $252,500 on 11/18/2025 Garbett John Est and Carl Fossum of Chester to Robin B Goodspeed Ft, $755,000 on 11/20/2025
David E. Bitter and Emily M. Hasek of Chester to Sandra Lugar, $810,000 on 11/18/2025
Colin Mccune and Leah Brzyski of East Haven to Luisa M. Solis-Alarcon, $380,000 on 11/17/2025
Grannis St:
Pane Ft and Louis Pane of East Haven to Ana M. Dossantos and Genicio D. Neves, $395,000 on 11/14/2025
75 Henry St:
Superior Prop Group LLC of East Haven to Dylan P. Mcallister, $260,000 on 11/21/2025
211 Kimberly Ave:
Cynthia M. and Nolan C. Scott of East Haven to Isabel N. Cerron, $325,000 on 11/21/2025
Catherine K Lang RET and Stephanie A. Rubino of Guilford to Brusic T and Kenneth F. Brusic, $950,000 on 11/20/2025
Albert Vitale of Guilford to Lucas L. and Katherine M. Danker, $515,000 on 11/18/2025
Real Estate Transactions
NORTH HAVEN
Neal and Joan Lewis of Killingworth to Blue Street LLC, $425,000 on 11/19/2025
Jack B Coy LLC of Killingworth to Jonathan T. and Lindsey C. Norton, $275,000 on 11/17/2025
Lawrence D. Mccrann and Denise A. Sebukaty of Killingworth to Beardsley Heisler Re T and Heather Beardsley, $460,000 on 11/17/2025
Porter Nancy B Est and Marylou R. Gargiulo of Madison to Steven J. Serra and John Maccallum, $900,000 on 11/17/2025
PascaleBurger Rentals In of Madison to Bruce K Beach RET, $850,000 on 11/21/2025
Alice Mcneil of Madison to Heather Huribal, $900,000 on 11/18/2025
George P. Sape of Madison to Briana and Eileen Oneill, $150,000 on 11/18/2025
Alban Deda of Madison to David S. and Lauren E. Trotta, $640,000 on 11/20/2025
Trevor and Taly H. Farber of Madison to Tara Haggett, $665,000 on 11/18/2025
Judith E. Cohen of Madison to Kathleen Dess, $563,000 on 11/20/2025
Steven A. Shaw and Marilyn L. Doria of Madison to Teresa Parker, $2,175,000 on 11/18/2025
Steven A. Shaw and Marilyn L. Doria of Madison to Teresa Parker, $2,175,000 on 11/18/2025
Melinda Brown
T and Melinda Brown of Madison to Roach T and Kevin P. Roach, $1,787,500 on 11/14/2025
Kathleen F. and Richard J. Sachak of Madison to Kathleen M. Carney, $1,080,000 on 11/18/2025
8 Crestview Dr:
Howard and Sylvia F. Garland of North Haven to Frank Capuano, $470,000 on 11/14/2025
1400 Hartford Tpke Unit 33:
Jami
L. Carlacio of North Haven to Lisa A. Doyle, $319,000 on 11/14/2025
4 Lombard Cir Unit 4:
Ral North Haven LLC of North Haven to Helen L. Hardee and Steven J. Eckert, $602,911 on 11/13/2025
OLD SAYBROOK
12 Bellaire Dr:
Brian Ziegler of Old Saybrook to John and Aida Couto, $650,000 on 11/20/2025
5 Oakwood Rd:
Carol D Moran Fret and Carol D. Moran of Old Saybrook to Patricia H. and Jessie J. Modzelewski, $1,700,000 on 11/18/2025
WESTBROOK
52 Anthony Ln:
Roger D Bedell T and Rogina Bedell of Westbrook to True Home Offer LLC, $100,000 on 11/13/2025
52 Anthony Ln:
True Home Offer
LLC of Westbrook to Unique Investors LLC, $130,000 on 11/13/2025
42 Bluff St:
Deborah Zacchio of Westbrook to Jd Northstar LLC, $900,000 on 11/14/2025
1286
P&z Realty
LLC of Westbrook to Jheferson R. Jara and Erika G. Rivera, $600,000 on 11/20/2025
P&z Realty
LLC of Westbrook to Jheferson R. Jara and Erika G. Rivera, $600,000 on 11/20/2025
Catherine R. Branch and Danny R. Stebbins of Westbrook to Joseph W. Lux and Margaret L. Fagan, $1,485,000 on 11/19/2025
Owen
Dean R Est and Thomas M. Owen of Westbrook to Owen T and Thomas M. Owen, $418,900 on 11/17/2025
Welcome to this remodeled Victorian two-family home designed for easy living. Completely remodeled, each unit has two bedrooms and 1 bath as well new kitchen and appliances. The home also offers city water and city sewers. Don't miss this opportunity, the home is perfect for multi-generational living, or an investment property $749,000
Jose Mendoza and Esperanza Castillo of North Branford to Thomas Gwiazda, $515,000 on 11/17/2025
