Guilford Courier 02-19-26

Health Care Costs Drive 6.25% School Budget Increase

By Aaron Rubin

Staff Writer

Driven primarily by rising health care costs and higher salaries, the Guilford Board of Education’s (BOE) proposed $79 million budget projects a 6.25% increase over current expenses, according to the school district. Medical costs for the district have risen by $2.5 million, Superintendent Paul Freeman

said, and are among the largest contributors to the overall $4.6 million budget increase for the next fiscal year.

“It’s really driving our expenses,” he told the .

Guilford Courier

The rising cost of health care follows a national trend, Freeman said, and has been one of the biggest drivers of the upward trend in BOE budgets over the past five years. Part

of that is the result of the school district and the rest of the town “going through a period with high claims,” he said.

“The insurance companies see that kind of recent experience, and they raise your rates,” he said. “It’s our school employees, most of the town employees, and when the insurance

See Health Care Costs page 10

A Sweet Tradition

Jim Powers of Dudley Farm in Guilford stokes the firebox of an evaporator as steam rises from boiling sap during a maple sugaring demonstration Feb. 15. The process requires about 40 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of maple syrup.

Dudley Farm will host additional sugaring demonstrations Feb. 2122 and features a vintage valentine display in the farmhouse.

is helping lead the Essex Winter Series into a new season..................................2

A Tough Season Guilford boys basketball turns its focus to offseason improvements.............................12

Tara Helen O’Connor: New Head for Essex Winter Series

By Rita Christopher

Courier Senior Correspondent

What happens when an unmarried person meets the perfect unmarried mate? If love conquers all, they marry — even if it seems improbable. And so it was for Daniel Phillips and Tara Helen O’Connor, who married despite a noticeable disparity. She is 5-foot-10; he is 5-foot-3.

Far more important than their height difference is their shared love of music. Tara, a flutist, and Daniel, a violinist, once played the same passage from a Bach cantata together at rehearsal with exactly the same interpretation. In that moment, they knew they belonged together.

This is Tara’s first year as artistic director of the Essex Winter Series. She takes over the role after Mihae Lee’s 15 years at the helm.

Tara is no stranger to music festivals and concert series. She and Daniel run a summer festival

ensembles at the Yale School of Music. The Fenton Brown Emerging Artist Concert on

Don’t Let the Scammers Strike Gold!

By Detective Sgt. Amy Peckham

Guilford Police Department

The Guilford Police Department has recently seen an increase in scams involving gold coins and bars, often targeting individuals seeking what they believe to be a “safe” investment.

Scammers often initiate contact through unsolicited phone calls, text messages, or malicious pop-ups that appear on a victim’s computer or mobile device. These pop-ups may falsely warn of a virus, compromised bank account, or identity theft.

Victims are directed to call a phone number displayed on the screen, where scammers impersonate government officials or consumer protection agents. In some cases, victims are instructed to install software that allows the scammer remote access to their computer or device.

Once access is obtained, scammers may view financial information or manipulate online banking sessions to make the victim believe that their accounts are compromised and increase urgency.

Victims are then pressured to withdraw funds or purchase gold coins or bars to “protect” their money.

The gold or cash is handed over to a courier for “safekeeping,” sometimes described as placement in a “secured locker” or “federal vault.” Once transferred, the money or gold is permanently lost. Many victims, under intense pressure, hand over their life savings.

Watch out for these common warning signs…

• Malware-style pop-ups warning of viruses or account compromise

• Requests to install remote desktop or screen-sharing software

Rx Disposal Box

Scam SmartS

• Urgent pressure to act immediately

• Unsolicited contact by phone, text, or online advertisements

• Impersonation of government or law enforcement officials

• Requests to purchase gold or withdraw large sums of money

• Demands for wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or courier pickups

• Instructions to provide a password or code word to a courier or “agent”

If you encounter a pop-up warning or are contacted by someone claiming to be from the government, do not click links, install software, or provide information. Close the pop-up, hang up the phone, and contact your local police department for assistance in determining whether you are being targeted for a scam and guidance on next steps.

These scams are increasingly sophisticated, and victims may delay reporting due to embarrassment or fear. We want to emphasize that these scams affect people throughout the community and can happen to anyone. Early reporting plays a critical role in stopping fraudulent activity and protecting others.

We also urge local gold dealers and vendors to be alert for potential scam victims and to report suspicious activity immediately. Early law enforcement involvement can help prevent victims from losing their life savings.

Amy Peckham is a detective sergeant for the Guilford Police Department.

The Guilford Police Department, in cooperation with the It’s Worth It initiative and the Connection, Inc., have installed a pharmaceutical collection drop box in the lobby of the Guilford Police Department, 400 Church Street. Area residents can dispose of unused and unneeded medications at any time. For more information, call the Guilford Police Department at 203-453-8061.

Correction

Three calendar items that ran on Feb. 12 had the incorrect venue. The Writing Injustice Book Discussion Series: “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston on Wednesday, Feb. 18; Salt Marshes and the History of Salt Marsh Haymaking in New England on Thursday, Feb. 19; and the Staying Strong and Steady: Fall Prevention with Dr. A.J. Gagliardi and Dr. Jill Caruso on Monday, Feb. 23, will all be held at the Guilford Free Library, 67 Park Street.

Obituaries

Obituary

Helen Hawley

Guilford

Helen Clark Hawley, 97, of Guilford, Connecticut, passed on Feb. 4, 2026, at Gladeview Rehab in Old Saybrook, where she had resided for the past three years. Helen was born in Guilford to the late William and Helen Daniels Clark on Sept. 7, 1928.

She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Harry Hawley, who passed in 2010; and her brothers, Harold, William, Joseph, John “Jack,” and Daniel. She is survived by her six children: Carolyn Tyler, Kathleen Mackenstein (Ralph), Nadine Rosiewicz (Steve), Pamela Simone, Glen Hawley (Twila), and Peter Hawley (Shoiban); 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Helen is also survived by her “honorary daughter,” Linda Thompson.

School. She was known by many in the community for her work as director of Guilford Before and After School Day Care Center. She was an active member of the VFW Post 7666 Auxiliary for many years. She and Harry enjoyed snowbirding in Florida for 17 years, where they made many friends. She enjoyed pool exercise, riding her bike, and Friday night Bingo games. Helen was a lifelong member of St. George Catholic Church.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to VFW Post 7666, 104 Mill Road, Guilford, CT 06437, or American Macular Degeneration Foundation, PO Box 515, North Hampton, MA 01601-0515.

Contacting Guilford Courier

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

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

Helen graduated from Guilford High School and worked as a telephone operator before starting her family. She worked with children for most of her life and was happiest amongst them. She took care of many children in her home, as well as working at Laneway Nursery

Family and friends are invited to calling hours from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19, at Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 20, at St. George Church, 33 Whitfield Street, Guilford. Burial will follow at St. George Cemetery, Hubbard Road, Guilford. The family invites all to celebrate Helen’s life at a luncheon immediately following her burial. For more information or to leave a message of condolences, please visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.

See Obituaries page 9

Guilford Meals on Wheels provides a nutritious, midday meal to Guilford residents having trouble preparing well-balanced meals. For more information, call 203-4538359.

and Other Programs

Shoreline Adult Education, formerly known as ERACE, offers free academic programs for individuals seeking to earn their high school diploma/GED, practice their English language skills, or prepare for their U.S. citizenship test. These classes are available to individuals aged 17 years or older who live in Branford, North Branford, Guilford, or Clinton. Individuals outside the four-town region may register for a fee if space is available. Limited spots are available for residents of any town at no charge. Shoreline Adult Education also offers a variety of affordable enrichment classes, open to individuals of any town, including courses on computers, music and dance, cooking, career development, CPR and first aid, world languages, business and financial planning, fine arts, photography, and writing. For more information, call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CALENDAR To have your item considered for print, please email news@shorepublishing.com. Announcements and calendar items are printed as space allows. Deadline for submissions is Tuesday at noon, nine days before publication.

These are just a few ways to get involved in your newspaper. If you have an idea for a story, a question about news deadlines, or any other news-related inquiry, email news@shorepublishing.com or call the News Department at 203-245-1877, ext. 0.

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

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Ordinance Change Expands Affordable Housing Fund Use

stock deemed affordable based on Area Median Income.

Guilford Courier

Speaking with the , First Selectman Matt Hoey said that when the original language was crafted, “it was very narrowly tailored to primarily acquisition of property.” The new language “gives us some more flexibility in the promotion of affordable housing.”

Before the amendment, the Guilford Affordable Housing Commission had been fundraising since last year to produce an educational video on affordable housing, according to commission chair Mary Jo Kestner.

However, “that was not a permitted use under the old ordinance,” Hoey said, prompting the amendment.

The educational video is intended to inform Guilford residents with a range of views on housing issues about the importance of bringing affordable housing into

The housing trust fund receives money

from developers who do not include an affordability component in their housing projects. Guilford Zoning Regulations include inclusionary zoning, which requires that 12 percent of units in a new multifamily project be designated as affordable housing. If that requirement is not met, developers must pay a fee in lieu, which is then allocated to the trust fund.

With the ordinance amendment approved, the commission’s educational video—which has received support from the Guilford Foundation, Ascend Bank, and the Guilford Rotary—can move forward, further encouraging the public conversations the commission regularly holds on the subject.

“There is a great deal of energy and interest around housing issues in Guilford right now,” Kestner said. “Our goal is to share a range of perspectives to help inform and enrich the community conversations taking place this year.”

Shoreline Family Health Care (SFHC) is expanding its Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) to middle school students who struggle with emotional and behavioral health challenges to the point where daily functioning is impaired. IOP now focuses on adolescents between the ages of 11 and 18 who are experiencing emotional and/or behavioral issues, family conflicts, and difficulties meeting school and social expectations due to serious emotional, behavioral, and social difficulties. IOP is an after-school program that provides comprehensive assessment, therapeutic structure, and support within a group-therapy format. It is an 8- to 12-week program that meets three to four times per week. The program sessions are conducted via telehealth and in person. SFHC is located at 221 West Main Street, Branford, and is a collaboration between BHcare and Fair Haven Community Heath Care (FHCHC). For more information, visit shorelinefamilyhealthcare.org/iop.

To help families plan ahead for a creative summer, the Guilford Art Center (GAC) has opened early registration for its Summer Youth Art Program. Running in weekly sessions from Monday, June 22, through Friday, Aug. 21, the program offers flexible, engaging art classes for children ages 5 to 12 and teens. Designed with busy parents in mind, the weekly format allows families to register for individual weeks that fit their summer schedules while ensuring kids and teens have consistent, high-quality creative experiences throughout the season. Led by professional instructors, classes feature a range of art including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, metals, sewing, weaving, blacksmithing, stained glass and mixed-media. Families can choose a half-day or full-day weekly session. GAC offers bridge care, providing supervised care between morning and afternoon sessions. For more information, visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Waste Reduction Program Cuts Trash 41% in Year One

and composted, up from 64,000 pounds per year during the pilot program.

NAMI Shoreline Support Groups

The Guilford/Madison Waste Transfer Station reduced trash by 41% in the first year of its waste reduction program, marking a significant milestone in the facility’s ongoing efforts to cut waste.

With support from WasteZero and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the Pay As You Throw (PAYT)/Unit-Based Pricing (UBP) program has produced measurable results, including reduced trash tonnage and increased recycling participation.

To recognize the towns’ leadership and performance, WasteZero will present the Guilford/Madison Waste Transfer Station with a Waste Reduction Milestone Award. Guilford and Madison join a growing group of Connecticut municipalities demonstrating early success with the model.

In the first year, trash disposal decreased by 41%, while recycling — including cardboard, glass, plastic, paper, and aluminum — increased by 9%. In addition, more than 152,000 pounds of food scraps were collected

The changes support both towns’ climate and sustainability goals and help control long-term waste management costs for residents.

“We’re thrilled with the progress we’re seeing,” said Guilford First Selectman Matt Hoey. “This milestone reflects the commitment and adaptability of Guilford households, along with the strong groundwork our staff and partners have put in place.”

“I am grateful that residents in both our communities have embraced the new pay as you throw system at the Guilford/Madison Transfer Station,” said Madison First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons. “This new approach to how we dispose of household trash proves we can make a real difference in reducing community waste and improving sustainability of both our Towns. Special thanks to the Town of Guilford’s crew, who went the extra mile to make the switch over a success.”

For more information, visit www.GuilfordCT.gov.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Shoreline hosts two family support groups for the caregivers of individuals 18 and older who struggle with mental health challenges. One group meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. The other group meets on the last Wednesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church Street, Guilford. NAMI-trained facilitators offer these monthly support meetings to anyone who is striving to understand and help a family member who is experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. For more information, call 860-876-0236 or visit NAMIShoreline.org.

Guilford Art Center has moved its spring semester registration dates one week later. The updated registration schedule is as follows:

Sunday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m.: Ceramics

Monday, Feb. 23, at 8 p.m.: Metals Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 8 p.m.: Weaving Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 8 p.m.: All classes and workshops

The spring catalog will be posted on the center’s website later this week. For more information, call 203-453-5947, email info@guilfordartcenter.org, or visit www.guilfordartcenter.org.

Page Hardware & Appliance Co., 9 Boston Street, Guilford, allows residents and businesses to bring old, unwanted paint for recycling during regular business hours through the PaintCare program. For more information, visit www.paintcare.org.

Tara Helen O’Connor: New Head for Essex Winter Series

Continued from page 2

for Nov. 8, 2026. That concert will feature Tara on flute, violinist Ani Kavafian, cellist Peter Wiley, and pianist Shai Wosner.

On Feb. 22, the Stu Ingersoll Jazz Concert will feature Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks performing music from the 1920s. On April 12, Chanticleer — the acclaimed a cappella ensemble that has previously appeared in the series — will return with a program of American songs.

In fact, all of this season’s concerts highlight American themes in different ways as part of a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Tara loves combining classical orchestral and chamber music repertoire with works by new composers.

“After all, music is a continuum,” she says. “Bach was a new composer once.”

She has also performed on several film and television soundtracks in a very different musical vein, including The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Barbie, and Respect.

Tara begins playing piano at age 3, and by 5 she is already composing her own songs. She wants to play the flute after hearing a neighbor practice, but at her elementary school in Hauppauge, Long Island, students cannot begin flute instruction until fourth grade. Although Tara is already accompanying the school chorus on piano in third grade, no exception is made, and she waits another year.

Legal Notice

Guilford Inland Wetlands Commission

As a high school senior, Tara is selected to participate in a master class led by noted flutist Paula Robison with the Long Island Philharmonic. Robison asks what Tara plans to do after graduation. Tara says she has considered becoming a lawyer, following other family members.

Robison has other ideas. She encourages Tara to pursue music professionally and suggests she audition for Sam Baron, a noted flute instructor at the State University at Stony Brook.

Tara follows that advice, knocks on Baron’s door, and asks if she can play for him. He is initially incredulous when he sees the difficulty of the music, but after hearing her perform, he becomes her teacher for the next 11 years.

Tara and Dan live in Manhattan with their two dachshunds, Ava and Chloe, but she is already familiar with the Shoreline area. She has performed at Musical Masterworks in Old Lyme and also has a cousin in Clinton.

Her schedule is busy, but she relishes its variety.

“I love teaching; I love performing; I love mentoring young artists,” she says. “I love sharing great music. Music is important to all of us, even if we have different beliefs. We can all come together over great music.”

For more information about the Essex Winter Series and to purchase tickets, visit essexwinterseries.com.

At its regular meeting on February 11, 2026 the Guilford Inland Wetlands Commission took the following action:

APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS: Rivers & NG Living Trust, 25 Sullivan Drive, Guilford, Connecticut, Assessors Map 86, 66A, After the Fact Regulated Activity, 16’ x 40’ pole barn and chicken coop and retaining wall within Guilford Inland Wetlands 100-foot upland jurisdiction of a wetland and/or watercourse.

APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS: James Yue, 50 Dover Court, Guilford, Connecticut, Assessors Map 86, Lot 3-06, Regulated Activity, 14’x26’ shed and driveway replacement within Guilford Inland Wetlands 100-foot upland jurisdiction of a wetland and/or watercourse.

Jeff Parker, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF RETIREMENT

Dr. Michael Crain wishes to notify his patients that he retired from RAM Radiology on 12/31/25. RAM will continue practice at Middlesex Health and their private offices.

Cuddle Up with Alfa

Story by Carol Andrecs

Alfa is a stunning 2-year-old, black-andwhite long-haired girl. She was trapped while living among a colony of cats and arrived at Forgotten Felines during the recent cold weather. Alfa loves being petted and brushed, as well as sitting on a comfy lap. This beauty will definitely keep you warm on chilly nights. Wouldn’t you love to cuddle up with Alfa? Come meet her at our open house or apply to adopt her online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. For more information, contact 860-669-1347 or volunteerinfo@forgotten felinesct.org.

Men and Women Invited to League of Women Voters

The League of Women Voters seeks new members who have an interest in areas such as voter registration, open government, environmental protection, or social policy. The league welcomes women and men of all ages and from all political persuasions. For more information, visit www.lwvct.org.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Marino A. Limauro (26-0007)

The Hon. Peter C. Barrett, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Madison - Guilford Probate Court, by decree dated February 3, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Nicole Malerba, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

April Limauro c/o ALPHONSE IPPOLITO, FASANO, IPPOLITO, LEE & FLORENTINE, LLC, 107 MONTOWESE STREET, BRANFORD, CT 06405

Obituaries

Continued from page 5

Obituary

Carol More

Guilford

On Jan. 31, 2026, Carol More, 84, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family. Born in New Haven on Sept. 19, 1941, she was the daughter of the late Willard Henry More and the late Doris (Palmer) More; and sister of Terry More (Lisy) and the late Richard More (Diane). She was the wife of the late Vinent Penkala, and later, the late Daune Thompson, with whom she spent many happy years. Carol was predeceased by her two sons: Bruce Zira Jr. and Brent Zira (Kelly). She leaves behind her loving daughter, Courtney Ardito; four grandchildren: Katlyn LoRicco (Anthony Jr.), Remi Tremblay (Sean), Isabella Zira, and Nick Zira; six great-grandchildren: Finn, Cole, and Luke Tremblay, and Annabelle, Charlotte, and Nathaniel LoRicco; as well as two nieces: Ashley Hillier (Rance) and Lindsay Santoro (Paul).

enjoyed a long career at the Shoreline Times in the accounting department. A longtime Guilford resident, Carol was known for her dedication to family and the loving openness of her home. She took great pride in her town and community, cared tenderly for her house, where she lived for over 60 years and adorned with pristine gardens, and enjoyed conversing on her porch with friends, family, and neighbors. Carol loved her lobster lunches with her friends. She graciously hosted many guests, cheered for every UConn women’s basketball game, shared many traditions with her family, especially baking Christmas cookies, and adored watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren play, learn, and grow.

LEGAL NOTICE OF DECISION GUILFORD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

Notice is hereby given that the Guilford Planning and Zoning Commission held a virtual meeting on February 4, 2026, and at this meeting the following actions were taken:

Approved with conditions:

236 Church Street (Map 461 Lot 1, Zone R-1). Applicant/Agent/Owner: Nicholas Esposito (Principal) of Nima Associates LLC. Special Permit to modify ADU provisions including a detached ADU for a dual-family dwelling and an increase in interior finished floor area per §3.9.A.1.e.

415, 417 and 439 Boston Post Road (Map 49 Lot 27, Map 49 Lot 26, and Map 49 Lot 25, Zone PRB-3). Applicant/ Agents: Kyle and Stephen Pustola on behalf of Owner: Lynn Madden of APT Foundation. Site Plan Review for a new garage and a new office building.

Dated at Guilford, Connecticut this 19th of February 2026 – Sean Cosgrove, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE

GUILFORD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

Notice is hereby given that the Guilford Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a VIRTUAL Public Hearing Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 6 P.M. via the ZOOM platform by using the following link. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/6396320192

Meeting ID: 639 632 0192

The following applications will be heard:

Carol graduated from Guilford High School in 1959 and, before retirement,

Notice of Intent to Demolish

9 Farm View Lane, Guilford, CT

Services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405; www.hospice.com/arrangments in care of The Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.

06437 - INTERIOR/ADDITION

In accordance with the Chapter 160 Demolition of Building Article 1, notice is hereby given that an application for a Zoning Permit was applied for on 1/13/26 with the Guilford Zoning Department for interior and partial exterior demolition of the structure located at:

Address of Structure: 9 Farm View Lane

Description/Type: Interior Demolition, partial exterior demotion for 170 sqft addition

Approximate Start Date: March 2026

The Applicant for this permit is:

Name: Porticoni Industries LLC

Phone: (203) 974-3043

A copy of the application is on file with the Guilford Zoning Department..

Description of Project: Full renovation of circa 1849 house at 9 Farm View Lane with preservation and renovation of the interior of the old house. Keeping the existing shell and renovation the interior and making the house up to today’s standard of living and code. All exterior sheathing, fireplace mantle, old floors will remain on the first floor. Saved all old floor boards that need to be removed to be reused where possible. House will be insulated, re-wired, new plumbing and new heating system to ensure health and safety of the home. 170 sqft addition to be included using all historically appropriate materials and aesthetics.

470 County Road (Map 104 Lot 39, Zone R-8). Applicant/Agent/Owner: Gail and Nick Thompson-Allen. Special Permit to enlarge an existing non-conforming structure per §8.2.E.

143 Three Mile Course (Map 45 Lot 31, Zone R-3). Applicant/Agent: Mark Fopeano of the Soccer Club of Guilford on behalf of the Town of Guilford CT. Special Permit to add towable light towers to the upper soccer fields at AW Cox School per §7.5.B.2.

1439, 1463, and 1509 Little Meadow Road plus unassigned lot (Map 97 Lot 58, Map 97 Lot 59, Map 97 Lot 34, and Map 97 Lot 67). Applicant/Agent: Chuck Mandel of Double B Design LLC on behalf of Owner: Jennifer Amasino. Map amendment for four parcels from R-8 zone to R-5 zone per §9.6.

1509 Little Meadow Road (Map 97 Lot 34, Zone R-8 {R-5 if approved above}). Applicant/ Agent: Chuck Mandel of Stevens & Associates on behalf of Owner: Jennifer Amasino. Re-subdivision of parcel into two lots per subdivision regulations.

Text Amendment: Zone Change Protest. Applicant: Anne Hartjen, Town Planner, on behalf of the Town of Guilford. Text amendment to align the provisions related to protest petitions for map changes with the State Statute.

Text Amendment: Consistent Number of Days formatting. Applicant: Anne Hartjen, Town Planner, on behalf of the Town of Guilford. Text amendment to correct the number of days references within the regulations for consistency and clarity.

Text Amendment: Residential Exterior Lighting. Applicant: Anne Hartjen, Town Planner, on behalf of the Town of Guilford. Text amendment to add standards specific to single-family residences.

Text Amendment: Animal Rescue. Applicant: Anne Hartjen, Town Planner, on behalf of the Town of Guilford. Text amendment to add a definition and standards for animal rescue facilities.

Text Amendment: Coastal Area Management. Applicant: Anne Hartjen, Town Planner, on behalf of the Town of Guilford. Text amendment to align CAM regulations with State Statute.

Text Amendment: Data Centers. Applicant: Anne Hartjen, Town Planner, on behalf of the Town of Guilford. Text amendment to add a definition and standards for Data Centers.

Copies of these applications are available for inspection in the Planning & Zoning office and on the Town’s website. At this hearing, persons may attend via web connection and shall be heard. All written correspondence shall be submitted to HartjenA@guilfordct.gov 24 hours prior to the meeting day. Documents are available at the Planning & Zoning office. Dial 203-453-8039 for assistance.

Dated at Guilford, Connecticut this 19th of February, 2026 – Sean Cosgrove, Chairman

Health Care Costs Drive 6.25% School Budget Increase

Continued from page 1

company sees your recent experience trending up, they raise your rates.”

The combination of health care costs, salaries, transportation, electrical costs, and other contracted services initially totaled a $5.2 million increase. Those increases were offset by $654,000 in reductions approved by a reluctant BOE, lowering the overall budget increase from 7.13% to 6.25%. Reductions were made in spending on textbooks, site improvement and maintenance, and teaching staff. The latter is mainly in response to a decrease in enrollment, primarily at the middle school level.

“None of these are things that I am happy offering up,” Freeman said. “But I also recognize that a 7% increase is a lot to ask the town to absorb.”

The $50,000 reduction in building maintenance and improvements means less money for carpet replacement, and ceiling and lighting repairs, Freeman added. While

The Legacy Theatre Announces Classes

the district has bonded site improvement projects planned for next year—including $1.5 million for a partial roof replacement at Elisabeth C. Adams Middle School—other improvements will need to take a back seat. However, “our buildings are in really good shape,” Freeman said.

Overall, Freeman said the reductions are manageable for now but should serve as a cautionary sign for the future.

“It’s an okay time to do this, but this is a risk, and if you do this year over year, you start falling back into that maintenance deficit. We don’t want to start letting our buildings fall into disrepair,” he said.

He said the same principle applies to reducing spending for textbooks and professional development.

“They’re all good decisions at this moment in time, but you have to worry about how many times you make those kinds of decisions year over year, because then they compound,” Freeman said.

Freeman acknowledged the reluctance of both the BOE and some members of the Guilford community to accept

In partnership with the Branford Parks and Recreation and Shoreline Adult Education, The Legacy Theatre offers performance classes for students of all ages, ranging from toddlers to adults. Classes take place either at the Joseph Trapasso Community House, 46 Church Street, Branford, or at Branford High School, 185 East Main Street. For more information, call The Legacy Theatre at 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.org/classes.

another budget with higher expenses. However, he said the return on the “magnitude of the investment that this town makes in their schools” translates to continued high performance by Guilford students.

According to state calculations, Guilford schools rank in the 91st percentile for performance, securing their place “in the top 10% of all the schools in the state,” Freeman said. That standing is achieved while spending the average amount on education relative to Connecticut’s public school districts.

“I don’t think that Guilford, as a community, wants to spend less than the state average on our children every year,” Freeman said. “That 6.25% investment will keep us at the average spending for the state, and if we can maintain that level, we will continue performing way above average. I know it’s a big ask, but I think it’s an important ask.”

The education budget will be reviewed further by the Board of Finance before heading to a public vote in April.

Literacy Volunteers Valley Shore offers free workplace literacy programs to improve employee productivity for businesses in Guilford. The free program matches volunteer tutors with employees, working together to customize a program that meets workplace and student needs. For more information or to participate in the program, contact John Ferrara at 860-399-0280 or jferrara@lvvs.org.

The Guilford Interfaith Volunteers (GIV) seeks to promote the well-being of Guilford residents who are homebound, elderly, or have special needs by providing them with food, friendship, or functional medical equipment. GIV’s primary goals are to provide residents with nutritious food, reduce the feeling of isolation and loneliness in its clients, and provide services that enable clients to remain in their homes, thereby postponing the necessity of moving to personal care facilities. Its motto is “Neighbor Helping Neighbor.” For more information about medical equipment, friendly visits, or food from Meals on Wheels, call the GIV offices at 203-453-8359.

Programs Offered at W&FLC

Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC), located at 96 Fair Street, Guilford, offers Lawyer Time, a program to allow individuals to meet one-on-one with a volunteer attorney to discuss legal questions and better understand one’s personal rights and the legal process. Attorneys can discuss most civil matters. W&FLC does not provide pro bono services or legal representation. W&FLC also offers Financial Consults, a program that involves one-on-one appointments with a volunteer financial coach to review finances of participants and help them take control of their economic independence and success. Topics cover budgeting, divorce, finances, debt, death claims paperwork, and more. Lastly, W&FLC offers a guided assistance program with a social worker who can connect individuals with community resources on crisis services, social services, mental health, financial assistance, and legal services. For more information or an appointment, contact 203-458-6699 or info@womenandfamilylife.org.

Safe Search for Those Who Need to Feel Safe

Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC) offers Safe Search, a program that allows participants and walk-ins who need a safe place to use a phone or access the internet. Individuals have access to a computer, the internet, phone, printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine. Safe Search is a time and place where individuals can call counselors and/or lawyers, research jobs, and revise and print a resume. WFLC also offers a secure location to keep documents for future use. For more information, contact 203-458-6699 or info@womenandfamilylife.org, or visit womenandfamilylife.org.

Tax Exemptions

The Assessor’s Office for the Town of Guilford offers property tax exemptions for veterans, including disabled veterans; active-duty military personnel; disabled or blind taxpayers; specially equipped or modified vehicles for transporting an incapacitated individual; farm machinery and farm buildings; and farm, forest, and open space land. For more information, including deadlines, call 203-453-8010 or visit ci.guilford.ct.us/departments/assessor.

Volunteer Opportunity to Help Others

The nonprofit hospice program of Yale Health at Home has volunteer opportunities in the following areas: patient/caregiver companions; complementary therapies, including massage, Reiki, reflexology, pet therapy, art, and music; bereavement and spiritual support; and veteran-to-veteran. Volunteers receive free mandatory screenings, training, the support and appreciation of a team, and more. Volunteers can choose their preferred towns from those served by the hospice program, which include Branford, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, East Haven, Essex, Guilford, Killingworth, Madison, North Branford, North Haven, Northford, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. For more information, contact Ericka Copeland at 203-453-7659 or Ericka.copeland@ynhh.org, or visit ynhhs.org/health-at-home/about/volunteer.

2026 Beacon Award winners will be celebrated with a special dinner at The Woodwinds on June 24. Is there someone in your community who deserves to be recognized for going above and beyond — a volunteer who continually steps up and helps make the shoreline a wonderful place to live and work?

Guilford Turns Focus to Offseason Improvements

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The Guilford boys basketball team is concluding a difficult season, one that will result in the program missing the postseason for the second consecutive year — the first time that has happened in nearly 15 years.

Guilford has long prided itself on building a competitive program that consistently reaches the state tournament. This season, however, the Grizzlies were unable to put it together. Guilford is 5-14 with one game remaining against Amity.

Coach Jeff DeMaio said the team is disappointed with the outcome but appreciates the effort his players showed throughout the year.

“We’re disappointed. I know the players are, especially the seniors,” DeMaio said. “Anytime you fall short of your goal, which is always to make the postseason, you’re disappointed. We’ve been ultra competitive, but being competitive doesn’t add up to wins. Being competitive doesn’t get you to the postseason — winning games gets you to the postseason, and we’re unfortunately going to fall short.”

DeMaio specifically expressed appreciation for the senior class.

“We have six, and they’re what I like to call program guys. These are guys that gave us everything they had,” he said. “They practiced hard, and they were good teammates to each other. They played some really good games against a very tough schedule. We had no issues throughout the season. They were a good bunch.”

The Guilford senior class includes captain Andrew Voytek, Carter Gagnon, Gumwel Malek, Devin Ridley, Patrick McGowan, and Cameron Forester.

DeMaio said the seniors demonstrated important qualities for the underclassmen, teaching them how to work hard, be

Guilford players listen to coach Jeff DeMaio during a timeout in a season that ended short of the postseason.

unselfish, and remain coachable.

“The big thing is that even though we fell short, I think we understand that the program has standards,” DeMaio said. “This is my 17th year, and the program has a standard of being a postseason team. Even when you fall short, the standard is still there.

These guys fought hard.”

One of the team’s main struggles this season was physical strength. In close games late in contests, Guilford often lost battles under the basket against more physical opponents.

Over time, the team wore down late in games and late in the sea-

son. DeMaio said that will be a focus for returning players in the offseason.

“We need to have guys who are going to put the work in during the offseason, and a lot of that is going to involve getting their bodies in better physical condition,” DeMaio said. “We have to get

stronger. Physically getting stronger is number one, and number two is becoming a little more efficient offensively. I think we have guys who are willing to put the work in.”

Hand Fencing Falls to Rival Guilford, Bounces Back

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

It was a challenging week for the Daniel Hand High School fencing team. Illness swept through the roster, and several athletes traveled to Ohio for the Vibe competition, testing the Tigers’ depth across multiple weapons. Still, Hand fought through adversity and delivered resilient performances.

Hand opened the week at home against Guilford, where the boys suffered their first loss of the season, falling 17-10 overall.

Despite the setback, several Tigers turned in strong efforts. In boys epee, Robert Ginsburg, Alexander Johnson, and Jack Johnson combined for a solid showing, narrowly dropping the weapon 5-4. Boys foil featured steady fencing from David Bixon, Jack Varone, and Erick Picon. In sabre, junior Owen Swift led the lineup alongside Adam Stotz, Josh Lee, and Eli Boyer in a tightly contested 6-3 loss.

The girls also faced a difficult matchup against Guilford, falling 19-8 overall.

Kasey Chen, Maewyn Griswold, and Neveah Hasting highlighted the meet with a 5-4 sabre victory. In epee, Amber Kittel, Madison Peete, and Emily Mathews continued to anchor the lineup, while Ari Lee, Ingrid Burton, Kathryn Franson, and Ellie Haggan competed in foil.

Hand later traveled to Cheshire High School, again shorthanded but determined to respond. The boys delivered, earning a 14-13 victory over a deep Cheshire squad. Boys epee led the way, as Ginsburg, Henry Diana, and Alexander Johnson powered Hand to an 8-1 win. In sabre, Adam Stotz, Alfred Parkyn, and Max Lane kept the match close in a 5-4 contest. Foil fell 7-2, with Gedeon LaRiviere, Jack Varone, Erick Picon, Jake Gordillo, and Declan Mahoney competing under difficult circumstances.

Hasting, and Griswold.

The girls also showed grit at Cheshire. Sabre earned a 6-3 victory behind Chen,

Girls epee narrowly dropped a 5-4 decision, with Kittel and Mathews picking up key wins. In foil, Franson and Haggan

fenced aggressively despite limited depth due to absences.

Hand now looks ahead to its final home meet of the year, Senior Night, against

Morgan High School on Friday, Feb. 20. The meet begins at 6:30 p.m. and will celebrate the senior class.

Feb. 20:

Feb. 21: at Hamden

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Fun By The Numbers

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

Here’s How It Works:

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

Madison Lyric Stage Announces 2026 Shows

Madison Lyric Stage (MLS), a professional theater company now entering its 14th year, announces its 2026 season will feature a new format and a new venue. Returning to one of its original homes, MLS will become the theater-in-residence at the Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, for a monthlong summer festival of popular and classical music and drama. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society is located at 297 Boston Post Road, Madison.

The summer festival will feature three major events: Barry & Bette, a tribute concert to Barry Manilow and Bette Midler; Outcasts & Innocents, celebrating the musical world of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears; and a fully staged production of Shakespeare’s .

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

“This summer, discover three must-see events spanning popular music, theatre, and opera,” said Marc Deaton, artistic director of Madison Lyric Stage. “It’s a festival designed for those who crave powerful storytelling, gorgeous music, and extraordinary performances. We are also offering a summer festival pass for all three events of our whirlwind season, a great way to take part in our entire celebration of the arts here on the shoreline.”

Outcasts & Innocents: The Musical World of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears

July 10 at 7 p.m. and July 12 at 4 p.m.

Viewers will journey deep into the hauntingly beautiful realm of Benjamin Britten and his muse, tenor Peter Pears. In this cinematic, semi-staged experience, tenor Marc Deaton—drawing on his fourdecade international career—transforms into more than 10 of Britten’s unforgettable characters, supported by a company of eight guest artists with music direction by Jill Brunelle. Tickets cost $40.

William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream

July 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, and 26

June 27 at 7 p.m. and June 28 at 4 p.m.

The festival lights up with a tribute to two icons: Barry Manilow and Bette Midler. Tenor Marc Deaton, a cast of six singers, and a band led by pianist Jill Barry & Bette: The Music of Bette Midler and Barry Manilow

Brunelle ignite the stage with soaring renditions of beloved hits including “Mandy,” “Could It Be Magic,” “Wind Beneath My Wings,” and “The Rose.” This high-energy celebration captures the glittering heart of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Tickets cost $40.

The show features a world of shimmering fairies, tangled romance, and hilarious mischief—all brought to life in a visually rich staging. Shakespeare’s beloved comedy for all ages is a forest tale of order and disorder, reality and appearance, and love and marriage. The evening will be preceded by an entertaining pre-show of merriment with singers, food, and drink. Tickets cost $45.

For more information or tickets, visit madisonlyricstage.org.

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

THURSDAY, FEB. 19

Our Salt Marshes and the History of Salt Marsh Haymaking in New England:

Calendar for the Week of February 19, 2026

SATURDAY, FEB. 21

37th Annual Eagle Watch on the Connecticut River

:

: Noon to 2 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Book: by Ariel Lawhon. For info or to register, call 203315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

6:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Presented by Shaun Roche of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. Topic covers the vital role of coastal marshes as habitat for unique species, along with historic images and stories of the farmers who once produced sustainable livestock fodder. Co-sponsored by the Guilford Conservation Commission. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

The Frozen River: A Novel

Book Club Shoreline Village Tea and Talk

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Shoreline Diner, 345 Boston Post Rd. Guilford. Features a conversation with members of Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to RSVP, contact 203-747-5939 or info@ShorelineVillageCT.org.

Junior Librarians

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Second in a four-session program for ages 8 to 12 offering a behind-the-scenes look at library operations with the children’s and teen librarians. Participants will learn how librarians select books for the collection, how much they can spend, and how they decide when it is time for a book to retire. Free. Commitment to all four sessions and celebration is expected. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Shoreline Sailing Club Event:

7 p.m. Clark Memorial Field, 210 Elm St., Old Saybrook. For active singles 35 and over. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Cost: free for members and first-time guests, $10 for others. BYOB. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

Author Event: Gish Jen in Conversation with Barbara Pearce

Bad Bad Girl

: 7 to 8 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Book: . Held in the Keyes Gallery. For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 20 AND SATURDAY, FEB. 21

Stage Door Medium Live With Jimmy Moses

: 7 p.m.

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet at The Audubon Shop, 907 Boston Post Rd., Madison at 7:45 a.m. or the first stop at Haddam, Eagle Landing State Park, at 8:30 a.m. Jerry Connolly of The Audubon Shop leads this land-based trip along the shore of the Connecticut River to spot bald eagles and other wintering birds from a variety of locations and discuss the birds’ natural history. Not a boat trip. Cost: $33, includes soup and sandwich lunch at Otter Cove Restaurant, Old Saybrook. Binoculars recommended and available to rent. Pre-registration and payment required. For info or to register (required), call 203245-9056 or visit theaudubonshop.com/events.

Lay Home Housewarming: Yoga, Music and More

: Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Marks the reopening of the historic Lay Home on the museum campus following renovations. Schedule includes a guided yoga session from 10 to 11 a.m.; a Lay Home sneak preview tour at 11 a.m.; an open house from 2:30 to 5 p.m.; and a musical performance by Ben Cosgrove from 5 to 6 p.m. Cost: Free for yoga session for members; $10 for nonmembers. Concert tickets: $15 for members, $25 for nonmembers. Other activities are free. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Painting a David Hockney Landscape

Senior Series 2: All About Senior Living Communities

: 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. The Orchard House, 421 Shore Dr., Branford. Cost: $10. Second in a six-part educational series designed for older adults and the adult children who support them. Each session offers practical guidance on topics related to aging in place, downsizing, home care, and senior living options. Participants can attend any or all sessions; there is no obligation to attend the full series. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Chinese New Year

: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For elementary-age students. Includes story time, a horse decoration craft, and noisemaking to welcome the Year of the Horse. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Art Talk with Curator Mallory Mortillaro: Exciting Discoveries in Art History

: 6:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Second in a two-part series. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features live audience readings and an interactive Q&A with Stage Door Medium Jimmy Moses. For info or tickets, call the box office at 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 20 THROUGH SUNDAY, FEB. 22

Blacksmithing: Forging a Kitchen Knife

: 10 a.m. to

5 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St., Guilford. Three-day blacksmithing workshop covering foundational forging techniques while creating a kitchen knife. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-4535947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 20

The Occasional Coffee House: Rees Shad

: 7 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd. Features live music, coffee, and a relaxed evening with friends. Tickets: $20, available online or at the door. Space is limited. For info or tickets, call 203-421-3241 or visit northmadisoncc.org/occasional-coffeehouse.

: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St., Guilford. Painting workshop inspired by the landscapes of David Hockney. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-4535947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Metalsmithing: Stacking Rings Workshop

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St., Guilford. Introductory metalsmithing workshop focused on creating stacked rings. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Celebrate the Year of the Horse: Lunarfest 2026

: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Hosted in partnership with the Yale-China Association. Free, all-ages celebration featuring art, music, dance, hands-on workshops, and cultural activities marking the Lunar New Year. For info, contact 203-562-4183, ext. 20, or matockarshewsky@newhavenmuseum.org, or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Create a Succulent Terrarium

: 10:30 a.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Hosted by the Old Saybrook Garden Club. All supplies provided. For grades K to 4. Registration required. For info, call 860395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

See page 21

Two Irish-inspired Productions Plus Plays by Arthur Miller and August Wilson Make for a Busy Schedule in Early March

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

Broadway Concerts

: Matt Doyle opens The Legacy Theatre’s Sunday afternoon Broadway Concert series on Sunday, Feb. 22, followed by Patti Murin on Sunday, March 8. Doyle, who grew up in Weston, won a Tony Award for his performance in the revival of . Murin originated the role of Anna in the Broadway production of , among numerous other credits. Contact LegacyTheatre CT.org for tickets.

Aisle ON THE

Farce of Nature

Rhinoceros

production, from Thursday, March 6, to Saturday, March 28, is Eugene Ionesco’s absurdist comedy, . The play, a cautionary tale of the seduction of power and the willingness to surrender to it, is about one man standing up as his neighbors succumb, becoming a crashing herd of rhinoceroses. Reg Rogers, a Tony-nominee, leads the cast. The adaptation by Frank Galati is one-act. For tickets, visit YaleRep.org.

streaming on multiple sites, including Apple TV and Prime Video. , about lyricist Larry Hart, is also streaming. Ethan Hawke, who stars is nominated for an Oscar.

Wicked

Blue Moon Jersey Boys

Back to the Waterfront Brothers Company Frozen Gem of the Ocean

Waterbury, replacing . It’s the New England premiere of the play set in Ireland overlooking the Irish Sea. Two brothers who have long lived together have their relationship shaken after one makes a startling revelation. It is described as darkly funny and a deeply moving exploration of brotherhood and grief. It runs from Friday, March 6, through Sunday, March 22. Tickets are available at SevenAngelsTheatre.org.

: Long Wharf’s production of August Wilson’s marks a return to the Canal Dock Boathouse, where was staged. The Wilson play, which is chronologically the first in his 10-play Pittsburgh Cycle that explores the African American story, runs from Friday, Feb. 27, to Sunday, March 15. For tickets, visit LongWharf.org.

The Wearing of the Green

A View from the Bridge Ya Patrick Swayze?”

: has been added to the schedule at the Seven Angels Theatre in

The One Good Thing or “Are

Continued from page 20

The Irish…and How They Got That Way

Angela’s Ashes

: Music Theatre of Connecticut (MTC) in Norwalk is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with , which is billed as an irreverent history of the Irish through the 20th and 21st centuries as written by Frank McCourt, author of . It runs from Friday, March 6, through Sunday, March 22. The March 8 performance is already sold out. Contact MusicTheatreOfCT.com for tickets.

Absurdist Comedy

: Yale Rep’s next

: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Free and open to children in ages 5 to 12. Participants will conduct an experiment to make fake snow that even feels cold. Seating and materials are limited. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For ages 5 and older. Led by Bauer Park educator Julie Ainsworth. Includes interactive learning stations and puppet-making. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. First in a three-class series featuring instruction from a professional 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.

Three Musketeers: 1941

Death of a Salesman The Mountaintop

Busy Schedule SummerSong

: Connecticut’s theater critics have a jam-packed schedule the weekend of March 6 to 8: opens at the Connecticut Repertory Theatre on the UConn campus; the plays at Long Wharf, MTC, and Seven Angels that I mentioned above open; and there are the openings of at Hartford Stage and at Playhouse on Park.

: Goodspeed has inaugurated a summer youth program, SummerSong, for kids 9 to 14. It will culminate with a production of for friends and family. The one-week program runs from July 6 to 10 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Terris Theatre in Chester. For more information or to register, visit Good speed.org/SummerSong. Space is limited. : The Broadway revival of Sondheim’s , which was filmed with the original cast, is now

NYC Notes

Annie Jr.

Merrily We Roll Along

Punk Taco Adventures: Interactive Author Talk

Parenting Power Hour Elementary School (K-5): Encouraging Independence and Building a Healthy Relationship with your Children

: Noon to 1 p.m. Virtual event. Presented by Alicia Farrell, cognitive psychologist and parenting professional. Designed for parents and caregivers of elementary and intermediate school children. Hosted by Haddam-Killingworth Youth & Family Services. For info or to register, visit hkyfs.org.

Chess Workshop Series : 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Author-illustrator Adam Wallenta and his son read from their graphic novel, share their creative process, and lead a drawing demonstration. Book signing follows. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Souper Bowl X

: Noon to 2:30 p.m. Downtown Madison, Boston Post Rd. Hosted by the Madison Chamber of Commerce. Features chili, soups, and chowders prepared by local chefs, fire departments, EMS teams, and cooking enthusiasts, with tasting and voting. For info, contact 203-245-7394 or chamber@madisonct.com.

After the success of the two films (though the second part did not garner the praise nor box office of the first), composer Stephen Schwatrrtz has hinted there will be a new film about the gender nonconforming Princess Ozma. will launch a 20th anniversary tour this fall. The off-Broadway revival of has extended through Sept. 6. , an off-Broadway show I hope to see, about Marcel Marceau and his actions during WWII, will run through March 22. Sean Hayes is doing a solo show, , off-Broadway through April 12. It’s about a playwright who is stalked by an actor. The long-running will close on Broadway on July 26 after more than 2,250 performances.

The 25th Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.

Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Marcel on the Train The Unknown Moulin Rouge

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, Connecticut Theater Women’s Network, and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Local Author Talk:

Musical Women Marines

: 1 to 2 p.m.

Musical Women Marines: The Marine Corps Women’s Reserve Band in World War II

James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Guilford author Ellen Creane discusses her book , which examines the only allfemale Marine Corps band, active from 1943 to 1945. Registration is not required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Winter Creature Features

: 1 to 2 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features live ambassador animals and a presentation on how native wildlife adapts to cold New England weather. Presented by the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. No registration required. For info, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Cross Stitch Bookmark

: 1 p.m. Chester Public Library, 21 West Main St. Participants will create a cross-stitch bookmark using provided designs. Open to tweens, teens, adults, and families. Space is limited. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-526-0018 or email library@chesterct.org.

See page 23

Page Turners

It'sNotHer

ByMaryKubica

What begins as a relaxing family vacation at a quiet lakeside resort turns into a terrifying ordeal when two family members are murdered and one disappears. Told from multiple points of view and shifting between past and present day, you won’t know who to trust or believe as you turn the pages of this twisty thriller.

— Marilyn

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

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

Escape!

ByStephenFishbach

An emotional and wild story that follows the contestants and producers of a groundbreaking survival reality show who are willing to do anything for redemption and fame. Packed with unforgettable characters, shocking twists, and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this story will keep you guessing until the very last page.

— Tijae

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Vigil

ByGeorgeSaunders

BlackDahlia

ByWilliamJ.Mann

George Saunders’ asks, “How do you comfort someone who doesn’t want to be comforted?” This novel is inventive and formally interesting, with writing that renders the world both familiar and uncanny. It grapples with the ramifications of progress: capitalistic greed, environmental deterioration, and personal pride. A meaningful read!

—

Vigil Marisa

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Reading William Mann’s book transports the reader back to postwar 1940s. The murder victim, the Black Dahlia, was given that moniker by the press in an attempt to sell more newspapers. Mann argues the victim should be remembered in life, not in her death. Elizabeth Short was a 22-year old from Medford, Massachusetts, trying to find her place in the post-war world of 1947. The author carefully pieces “Betty’s” life together without blame or shame for the victim as many in the media have done.

—

Black Judi

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Page Turners

Continued from page 22

ByTracyWolff

— Heather R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison TheAftermyth

TheExes ByLeodoraDarlington

Percy Jackson meets Harry Potter (with a dash of Mean Girls). With lots of adventure and puzzles to be solved, this book shows how a sense of belonging and a little fun can be just as important as perfect grades.

If this book were an emoji, it would be the exploding head. At no point in time while reading this book did I know what would happen next. You are in for a wild ride.

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

TheWidow ByJohnGrisham

Bestselling author John Grisham has truly outdone himself in his latest novel, . Grisham, who is the acclaimed master of the legal thriller, is back with his first-ever who dunit. Small-town lawyer Simon Latch is living in Virginia and making barely enough to pay his bills while trying to hold his family together. Into his office walks Eleanor Barnett, an elderly widow in need of a new will. Apparently, her husband left her a small fortune and no one knows about it. What ensues next is an unexpected series of events, and Latch finds himself on trial for a murder he claims he did not commit. The writing is superb, and fans of legal novels will find themselves on the edge of their seat until the very last page. Magnificent!

— Widow Christine Griswold Inn Store, Essex

Continued from page 21

Rent: In Concert

: 7 p.m. Shubert Theatre, 247 College St., New Haven. For info or tickets, call the Shubert Box Office at 203562-5666 or visit Shubert.com.

SATURDAY, FEB. 21 AND SUNDAY, FEB. 22

: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Dudley Farm Museum, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Weather permitting, volunteers will demonstrate traditional maple sugaring methods at the sugar house behind the Quinnipiac Dawnland Museum and Munger Barn. Features sap collection and syrup-making using a historic “cooker,” along with wood-fired cooking, stories, and hands-on opportunities. For info, call 203-457-0770 or visit dudleyfarm.com.

Victorian Valentine Pop-up Exhibit

: Sat-

urday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dudley Farm Museum, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Features a pop-up exhibit of Victorian-era valentines, including German and Austrian paper-engineered designs popular from the 1890s

through the 1920s, as well as Vinegar Valentines, also known as Mock Valentines. For info, call 203-457-0770 or visit dudleyfarm.com.

SUNDAY, FEB. 22

Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. YMA Annex, 554 Woodward Ave., New Haven. Sponsored by the New Haven Philatelic Society. For info, visit nhps1914.com.

Presentation by Decoda, Affiliate Ensemble of Carnegie Hall

: 9:30 a.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. Presented by Steve MacAusland. Part of the church’s Griswold Forum series of lectures. For info, contact 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org.

An Afternoon of Music with Joe Flood:

2 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features songs from Flood’s upcoming 2026 album and past works. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

See page 24

Continued from page 23

Information Session on Home Energy Solutions Assessments

: 2 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St., Chester. Hosted by the Chester and Deep River Sustainability Teams as part of their HeatSmart campaigns and participation with the Sponsors of Energize Connecticut. Features an overview of Home Energy Solutions assessments and services, including weatherization, energy efficiency, and available incentives. Vendor representatives will answer questions and assist with sign-ups. Free and open to the public. For info, contact 860-3046184 or lcwahle@gmail.com, or visit HeatSmartCT.org/Chester or HeatSmartCT.org/DeepRiver.

Essex Winter Series (EWS): Hot and Sweet Music of the 1920s and '30s

: 3 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Features Vince Giordano and the jazz orchestra The Nighthawks. Part of the EWS 2026 Season, in the celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. Tickets: $45, general admission; $5, students through college. For info or tickets, call 860-272-4572 or visit essexwinterseries.com.

Madison’s Role in the Civil War

: 4 p.m. Hubley Hall, First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln. Presented by Charlie Fischer, former Daniel Hand High School history teacher. Sponsored by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Part of the 2026 Frederick Lee Lectures series. Admission: $5 suggested fee, free to MHS members. For info, contact 203-245-4567 or office@madisonhistory.org.

Wine Tasting Fundraiser

: 4 to 8 p.m. Landing & Main, 77 Main St., Deep River. Fundraiser benefiting the Rotary Club of Deep River Scholarship and Food Sustainability Programs. Cost: $20 per person. Tickets available online or at Landing & Main. For info, contact 860-481-9031 or deepriverrotaryct@gmail.com.

MONDAY,

FEB. 23

Artist2Artist Enrichment Program: Macro Photography Workshop

: 10 a.m. to noon. Branford Arts and Cultural Alliance (BACA), 1004 Main St. Presented by photographer Robert Thomas. Part of a program of free workshops covering various aspects of professional art practice. For info or to register, contact 203-232-4384 or baca06405@gmail.com.

Staying Strong and Steady: Fall Prevention:

3 p.m.

Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Presented by Dr. A.J. Gagliardi and Dr. Jill Caruso. Participants will learn ways to improve hip bone density, enhance balance, and build strength—all leading to reduced fall risk. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Tech Education Workshop: Introduction to Email

:

4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Presentation covering how to use email to communicate, receive updates, and stay connected. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-6692342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Author Event: Deborah Goodrich Royce in Conversation with Luanne Rice

Best Boy: A Novel

: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

TUESDAY, FEB. 24

Rep. Renee Lamark Muir:

1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Deep River Ambulance Barn, 284 West Elm St., Deep River. Features a question-and-answer session with Renee Lamark Muir on her role and responsibilities as Deep River’s state representative. Sponsored by the Deep River 60 Club. For info, call 860-767-2302.

Smithson’s Gamble: The Incredible History Behind the World’s Largest Museum with Smithsonian Curator Emeritus Tom Crouch

: 2 p.m. Online event. Book:

Smithson's Gamble: The Smithsonian Institution in American Life, 1836–1906

. Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries.

Art With Kristin

: 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Monthly art program led by artist and educator Kristin Cafferty. This session focuses on creating a Van Gogh–inspired watercolor painting. For grades 1 to 5. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Singing and Listening with Whales: Exploring Human and More-Than-Human Musicalities

: 6 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Part of the Branford Land Trust Winter Speaker Series. Lecture by Marie Comuzzo exploring how sound mediates relationships between humans and whales across cultures, science, and music. Free and open to the public. For info, contact 203-483-5263 or info@branfordlandtrust.org.

American Girl Doll Club

: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For grades 1 to 4. This session focuses on Ivy Ling. Participants should bring a doll (it does not have to be an American Girl doll) and join in story time, activities, and a craft. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Getting Your Estate Plan Right: How to Create the Best Plan for You

: 6 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $20. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Popcorn and PJs: Virtual Family Story Time:

7 p.m.

Pout-Pout Fish Goes to the Dentist The Pout-Pout Fish and the Can’t-Sleep Blues

Online event. Features author Deborah Diesen reading and , discussing her creative process, answering questions, and leading a brief drawing activity. Cost: $10 for the link to the live event; $30 for the full package, which includes the link, a signed copy of the book, popcorn, crayons, sketch pad, and additional materials shipped to the provided address. Presented by Read to Grow in Branford. For info or to register, call 203488-6800 or visit readtogrow.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25

Let's Make Bagels!

: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Cost: $30 class fee plus a $30 materials fee (exact change requested). All ingredients provided. Bring an apron, a clean dish towel, and a sponge for cleanup. Each student will take home the six bagels they made and three large almond croissants. Take-home bags will be provided. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Tabletop RPG Game Night

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Participants can play or plan games like Zombiecide or MTG. Facilitated by librarian Brian Story. Free and open to all. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

An Unfinished Revolution at 250

: 6 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Features a talk by historian and author Michael D. Hattem on the role of the American Revolution in U.S. history. A reception precedes the free event at 5:30 p.m. Part of NH250, a series highlighting local and lesser-known stories connected to the semiquincentennial. For info, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Book Art Workshop

: 6 to 8 p.m. Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Participants will transform old books into usable and decorative art pieces. Led by artist Sharon Hart. Cost: $10. For info or to register, contact 203-232-4384 or baca06405@gmail.com.

Your Guide to Menopause: Symptoms, Safety, and Therapy Options

: 6:30 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, 4 Liberty St. Presented by Jill McEachern, a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner. For info or to register (required), contact the Chester Public Library at 860-5260018 or library@chesterct.org.

Author Event: Anna Quindlen in Conversation with Beatriz Williams

: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Book: Cost: $33, includes admission for one to the event and one copy of . Sponsored by R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

More Than Enough

Guilford Job Network Meet

: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Includes guest speakers. All job seekers welcome. For info or to register and receive the Zoom link, contact Russ Allen at 203-457-0121 or RussAllen2@aolcom.

THURSDAY, FEB. 26

Scrapbooking Class: More Than Enough

6 to 8 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Participants will work on personal scrapbooking projects using provided stickers, paper, and decorative scissors. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

See page 25

New Year in New Haven: Lunarfest 2026 Marks the Year of the Horse

New Haven Museum and the Yale-China Association host Lunarfest 2026, a celebration of the Year of the Horse, on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The free event offers at various New Haven venues activities and programs for all ages, featuring art, music, literature, and dance.

The event schedule is as follows:

10 a.m.: Lunarfest begins with a colorful lion dance and performances on Whitney Avenue.

Noon to 4:30 p.m.: Attendees are welcome to write their hopes for the coming year on a leaf to hang on the Community Wishing Tree in the New Haven Museum rotunda.

12:30 to 1:30 p.m.: Yale’s Red Lantern dance troupe brings centuries-old traditions to life. Attendees are invited to the interactive workshop to learn foundational techniques, including throwing handkerchiefs and waving dance fans.

1:45 to 2:45 p.m.: Sifu Shirley Ha and students of Tai Chi United hold demonstrations of authentic tai chi walking. Attendees can stay for a workshop to learn the basics of tai chi walking using sacred geometry in motion principles. Participants can also experience fitness and

Continued from page 24

East Shore Health District Information Session

:

10 a.m. to noon. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Representatives from the East Shore Health District will provide information on local social support resources, personal preparedness, and overdose prevention. Questions and discussion welcome. No registration required. For info, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Pump Up Your Heart: Nutrition Talk

: 11 a.m. to noon. Congregational Church in Killingworth, 273 Rte. 81. Presented by Natalie A. Webb, consulting dietitian for Big Y. Covers eating plans for heart health, including tips for

classical internal martial arts to improve balance, increase functional mobility, and boost their energy.

2 to 3 p.m.: Students from Yale-China’s YUNA exchange program demonstrate the intricate art of Chinese papercutting. Participants can create designs to decorate their space with symbols of luck and happiness for the Year of the Horse.

3 to 4:30 p.m.: Apprentices from the Eli Whitney Museum and Workshop host a hands-on workshop. Participants can craft their choice of a rolling-drum horse or a festive Year of the Horse lantern.

For more information, including details on other activities and programs, visit www.yalechina.org/lunarfest.

About Yale China

Yale-China bridges American and Chinese cultures by creating lasting, transformative partnerships and experiences in education, health, and the arts. The group believes in global citizens who have experienced daily life and language, friendships, professional cooperation, and insights in a very different culture—as a way to discover commonality and respect for different peoples. The group

those with high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation. Hosted by the Killingworth Women’s Organization (KWO). Free. For info or to register (required), visit facebook.com/kwo06419.

“Billy Winter’s Neighbors”

: 7 p.m. Deep River Historical Society Carriage House, 245 Main St., Deep River. Presentation by Rhonda Forristall on Billy Winter, a self-emancipated slave who made his home in Deep River, and the contributions of African American families in the town’s history. For info, call 860-541-1247.

also believes that developing a community of such global citizens on both sides is crucial to a prosperous, healthy, and safe 21st century, in which the U.S.-China relationship is one of the most important engines of cooperation, growth, and peace. The Yale-China community has modeled this vision for 120 years.

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 in downtown New Haven 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 designated 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 from Memorial Day through Labor Day. For more information, call 203-5624183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org or Facebook.com/ NewHavenMuseum.

Osprey Die-off: What We Know and What We Need to Learn

: 7 p.m. Webinar. Presented by Osprey researchers Michael Academia from the William & Mary University and Ben Wurst from the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey along with Connecticut Audubon’s Milan Bull and Matt Joyce. Part of the 2026 Young, Gifted, and Wild About Birds series. Hosted by the Connecticut Audubon Society. Cost: $9 for members, $12 for nonmembers. Proceeds benefit the Connecticut Audubon Society conservation programs. For info or to register, visit ctaudubon.org/2026.

When the Cranes Fly South

Willoughby Book Talk: by Lisa Ridzen

When the Cranes Fly South

: 7 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Book discussion on by Lisa Ridzen. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-4888702 or visit wwml.org/events.

Willoughby Book Talk

When the Cranes Fly South

: 7 to 8 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Book: by Lisa Ridzén, translated from the Swedish by Alice Menzies. Held in the Keyes Gallery. For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 27

Little Learners: Things that Go

: 10 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Open to children ages 2 to 5. Features a story time, songs, rhymes, and crafts. Free and open to the public. For info or to register, contact the library at 860767-1560 or staff.essexlib@gmail.com, or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Writers Writing

: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features an adult writers group exploring various genres. Sharing optional. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Tween Time: Pokémon Party

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Open to children ages 8 to 12. Features a Pokémon-themed scavenger hunt, a game of Bingo, Pokémon trivia, and a Pokémon craft. For info or to register, contact the library at 860-767-1560 or staff.essexlib@gmail.com, or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Meet The Met at Lyme Academy: Helene Schjerfbeck Lecture

: 5 p.m. Lyme Academy of Fine Arts, 15 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Guest lecture and book signing by Dita Amory, Robert Lehman Curator in Charge at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, introducing the Finnish artist Helene Schjerfbeck (1862–1946). Tickets: $30 for lecture; $65 for lecture and book. For info or tickets, visit lymeacademy.edu.

for graduating high school seniors attending post-secondary school. For info, visit goschamber.com/chilifest.

Creative Writing Workshop and Book Signing with Catherine Con Morse

A Wonderful Struggle: Local Jewish Women in the Labor Movement

The Notes The Summer I Remembered Everything

: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Creative writing workshop for students in grades 6 and up, followed by a question-and-answer session and book signing with YA author Catherine Con Morse. Focuses on character development and descriptive writing through guided exercises. Books: and . Registration is required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Shoreline Day of Yoga and Peace Within

: 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Trinity Church Hall, 1109 Main St., Branford. Led by certified yoga instructors sharing their approaches toward holistic healing. Open to all adults. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat. Cost: monetary and canned goods donations. No cash, only Venmo or checks. Proceeds benefit the Branford Community Dining Room. For info, call Gina Macdonald at 203-710-6665.

Paint Along with Natalie: Winter Cardinal Canvas

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No experience needed. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Molecules of the Mind: Designing PsychedelicInspired Medicines on a Computer

: 3 to 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Presented by Asher Brandt, professor at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at University of St. Joseph. Sponsored by Tilde Café, an interactive platform to demystify science and make it more accessible to the community. For info or to register (required), email admin@tildecafe.org or visit tildecafe.org/home.

Stony Creek in Song: A Village Gathering to Make Music

: 6:30 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features the Musicians of Stony Creek. Refreshments will be served. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.

SUNDAY, MARCH 1

MONDAY, MARCH 2

SATURDAY, FEB. 28

Kids Create: Dragon Eggs

: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For ages 5 to 12. Participants will create magical dragon eggs using clay, beads, and jewels. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

29th Annual Old Saybrook Chili Fest

: Noon to 3 p.m. Along Main Street, Old Saybrook. Participants sample a variety of chili recipes and vote for their favorite to determine “Best Chili.” Tasting ballots may be purchased at ballot stations along Main Street and at the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce office, 1 Main St. Each ballot allows guests to sample registered chilis and vote for their top choice. To ensure fair judging, a minimum of 10 chilis must be sampled for a ballot to be counted. Proceeds benefit the C. Wilfred Hunter Memorial Scholarship

: 10 to 11 a.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $35. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

How to Grow Your Small Business Babysitting Course

: 1 to 4 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1272 Durham Rd., Madison. Day one of a two-part babysitting and CPR course for Madison-area youth. Covers childcare and safety skills. Participants receive a certificate of completion from SafeSitter. Tuition: $60. Bundle discount available for registering for both sessions. For info or to register, contact 888-2123827 or info@yourafterschool.com, or visit northmadisoncc.org/babysittingcourse.

: 2 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Part of the Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Program. Features speakers on the 1975 New Haven teachers strike and the 1983-’84 Yale clerical and technical workers’ movement, plus live music by the Nu Haven Kapelye Allstars. Free. The event will also stream on Facebook Live. For info or to register, visit newhavenmuseum.org. :

From Cosmos to Compost: Our Place in the Universe

11 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Presented by Yale Science in the News. Explores connections between astronomy, biology, and ecological systems, from stars and galaxies to the recycling of matter in ecosystems. Free. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Movie Matinee

Continued from page 25 See page 27

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Free. For info or movie title, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Non-Combat Life of the Civil War Soldie

r: 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Meeting starts 6:15 p.m., presentation at 6:30 p.m. Features a talk by historian Jerry Richard. Part of the Shoreline Civil War Roundtable monthly meeting. Free and open to the public. For info, contact the group’s facilitator at 860-395-1124 or olivia.jean@sbcglobal.net, or visit facebook.com/shorelinecivilwarroundtable.

Author Event: Rachel Rueckert

The Determined

TUESDAY, MARCH 3

Divorce Mortgage Workshop

: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . Features a discussion by Rachel Rueckert of her historical novel set during the Golden Age of Pirates and centered on Anne Bonny and Mary Read. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. : 6 p.m. Via Zoom. Hosted by the Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC), 96 Fair St., Guilford. Led by Marc Meglio, a certified divorce lending professional. Free to residents of Guilford, Branford, Madison, and Clinton. For info or to register, contact 203458-6699 or info@womenandfamilylife.org, or visit womenandfamilylife.org.

What is a Trust: Do you Need One?

: 6 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $20. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Author Event: Karen E. Olson in Conversation with Elizabeth Hobbs

: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: A Defiant Woman. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Branford Land Trust Holds

Second Lecture in Winter Series

The Branford Land Trust Winter 2026 Speaker Series on Tuesday, Feb. 24, will feature the topic, “Singing and Listening with Whales: Exploring Human and MoreThan-Human Musicalities” with Marie Comuzzo.

This second lecture takes place at 6 p.m. in the auditorium at the James Blackstone Memorial Library. The talk is free and open to the public.

Attendees will explore how sound mediates the relationship between humans and whales, and how the recognition of whales’ vocal expressions as music shapes a person’s perception of them.

How are whale songs understood and produced across different cultures and disciplines? How does connecting with whales through sound carry different meanings depending on cultural context?

Comuzzo’s talk will examine some of the interactions between First Nation communities and whales, the ways in which the songs of whales are studied within Western scientific communities, and the creative engagements between whales and musicians, both in live performances and recorded sound.

“Studying human-whale interactions across diverse cultures and disciplines highlights values of care, curiosity, and reverence for whales’ lives and their cultural participation,” Comuzzo explains.

“Arguably, hearing whale songs as music in the 1970s had—and continues to have—a tremendous political power in the anti-whaling and ocean protection campaigns,” she adds. “These have led to remarkable global change, establishing considerable limitations on the capitalistic exploitation of whales’ lives. This shift underscores the way Western cultures often equate complex melodic musicality with intelligence and emotional depth—qualities that can render a species more worthy of empathy, protection, and even survival.”

By examining these sound-based connections, Comuzzo asserts that direct and indirect sonic exchanges function as vessels for ecological and cosmological repair, transmitting ancestral lessons that invite people to challenge extractive systems of life, reimagine gender and relationship to the ocean and the Earth, and reconsider what it means to be human.

About the Speaker

Marie Comuzzo is an ACLS/Mellon innovative dissertation fellow and a Ph.D. candidate at Brandeis University. Her

research examines how sound mediates the relationship between humans and whales and the political power that recognizing whales’ vocalization as music had in ecological conservation and multispecies kinship within and beyond Western imaginaries. She also holds a master’s in musicology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a masters in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies from Brandeis University. She has presented at conferences in the United States and New Zealand (Aotearoa), and has been invited to give talks in the U.S., New Zealand, and Italy.

The upcoming Branford Land Trust Winter 2026 Speaker Series includes these events: Tom Cleveland, ““Fish Ladder, 20th Anniversary, History, Stories, and How It Came To Be” on Tuesday, March 24; Two Coyotes Wilderness School, “Raising Our Future Ancestors” on Tuesday, April 28; and the annual meeting in May featuring “Access to the Outdoors: Disability, Grit, and Belonging in Nature” with Justin Brownell.

About the Branford Land Trust

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 Branford Land Trust maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails, 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 or to become a member, visit www.branfordlandtrust.org.

Continued from page 26

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Michael Perry

The Jesus Cow Population: 485

: 2 p.m. Online event. Books: and : 2 p.m. Online event. Book: Smithson's Gamble: The Smithsonian Institution in American Life, 1836–1906. Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/ nbranfordlibraries.

Yale Jazz Ensembles Big Band Spring Band

: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Sprague Memorial Hall, 470 College St., New Haven. Features a performance with Wayne Escoffery, music director. For info, call 203-432-4111 or visit bands.yalecollege.yale.edu.

THURSDAY, MARCH 5

FRIDAY,

MARCH 6

Junior Chefs: Monster Cookie Balls

4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Cooking program for children ages 5 to 12 focused on making no-bake monster cookie balls. Children ages 5 to 8 must participate with an adult. Free. Registration required; space is limited. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Military Whist Game Night

: 6 p.m. Hubley Hall, 26 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Fundraiser hosted by the Women’s Club of Madison. Features a team-based Military Whist card tournament with instruction provided. Doors open at 5 p.m. Cost: $20 per player; advance payment required. Proceeds benefit local community organizations. For info or tickets, contact 917-601-8194 or jonci1@verizon.net, or visit bit.ly/WCMWhist2026.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7

: 6 p.m.

Creating a Healthy Ecosystem in Your Landscape, and Why It Matters

Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Lecture by Jim Sirch, naturalist and president of the Connecticut Horticultural Society, on creating landscapes that function well for people and wildlife. Free. For info, call 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Author Event: Betsy Rubiner

: 6:30 p.m.

R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Our Diaries, Ourselves. For info or to register (required), call 203-2453959 or visit rjjulia.com.

The Untold Toll of Avian Influenza on Bird Populations

: 7 p.m. Webinar. Presented by Johanna Harvey, assistant professor of wildlife disease ecology at the University of Rhode Island. Part of the 2026 Young, Gifted, and Wild About Birds series. Hosted by the Connecticut Audubon Society. Cost: $9 for members, $12 for nonmembers. Proceeds benefit the Connecticut Audubon Society conservation programs. For info or to register, visit ctaudubon.org/2026.

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 THROUGH

SATURDAY, MARCH 7

Chicago :

: Thursday and Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m. Old Saybrook High School (OSHS) auditorium, 1111 Boston Post Rd. Presented by the OSHS dRAMa Department. Tickets available online or at the door. For info or tickets, visit oshsdrama.ludus.com/index.php.

Family Leprechaun Hike: Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Program

: 9 a.m. to noon. Pond Meadow Preserve, Park Road, Ivoryton. Families may arrive any time between 9 a.m. and noon and follow the “leprechaun trail” at their own pace. Includes treats and refreshments when participants reach the "pot of gold." Free and open to all. No dogs allowed. Cosponsored by the Essex Land Trust and the Essex and Ivoryton libraries. For info or to register (required), call the Essex Library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events link at youressexlibrary.org or essexlandtrust.org/events.

Irish Classics with Pierce Campbell and Paul Neri

: 11 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Performance featuring Irish and Celtic folk music by Pierce Campbell of The Kerry Boys and banjoist Paul Neri. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Jackie Bright’s Jewelry Making Class

: Noon to 2 p.m. BACA Art Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Hands-on workshop focused on creating jewelry using provided materials. Cost: $50. For info or to register, call 203-433-4071.

Alice in Wonderland

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Presented by The Barter Players. For info or tickets, call 860-5100453 or visit thekate.org.

See page 28

Continued from page 27

Entwyned Celtic Music

: 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features traditional Irish and Celtic music with historical context drawn from the Edward Bunting Collection. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Annual Corned Beef Dinner

: 4 to 6 p.m. St. James Episcopal Church Hall, 501 Killingworth Tpke., Higganum. Menu: corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and homemade dessert. Tickets: $22 for adults, $12 for children ages 6 to 12. Take-out dinners only. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Haddam emergency fuel bank. For info, contact 860-424-6178 or elainejack835@gmail.com.

Meet The Met at Lyme Academy: Jean-Léon Gérôme Lecture and Exhibition Preview

BashiBazouk

: 5 p.m. Lyme Academy of Fine Arts, 15 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Guest lecture by Asher Miller, Eugene V. Thaw Curator of European Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, on Gérôme’s , followed by conversation and a preview of Lyme Academy’s forthcoming exhibition,

The New Bronze Age: Masterpieces of 19th- and Early 20th-Century Sculpture from the Karlheinz Kronberger Collection

. Includes a reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets: $100. Proceeds support Lyme Academy exhibitions. For info or tickets, visit lymeacademy.edu.

Orchestra New England BaroqueFest

: 7:30 p.m. Battell Chapel, corner of Elm and College streets, Yale Old Campus, New Haven. Features concertos by Antonio Vivaldi, Johann Sebastian Bach, and Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach. Performers include violinist Raphael Ryger, oboist Stephen Wade, bassoonist Rémy Taghavi, and flutist Adrianne Greenbaum. Presented by Orchestra New England. Tickets: $50 reserved seating; $30 general admission; $5 student rush tickets available at the door. For info or tickets, call 203-777-4690, email info@orchestranewengland.org, or visit orchestranewengland.org.

ONGOING EVENTS

Art Exhibits

Andrews Memorial Town Hall

: 54 E. Main St., Clinton: For info, visit clintonartsocietyct.org/exhibitions.

Artists in Exhibition: Barbara Fenton, Lisa Hess Hesselgrave, Molly McDonald, Edith Reynolds, and MJ Stevenson

: Runs through March 31.

Essex Library

Spectrum Art Gallery

: 61 Main St., Centerbrook. For info, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.

Signs of Love:

Golden Threads: Runs March 27 through May 9.

Clinton Art Society 2026 Winter Juried Member Artists Show

: Runs through April 23.

Artevistica Gallery

: 191 Middlesex Ave, Chester: For info, visit rivervalleyartists.com.

Roadside Attraction: A New Show of Contemporary Art by the River Valley Artist

s: Runs through April 30.

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) West Gallery

: 360 State St., New Haven: For info, contact 203433-4071 or baca06405@gmail.com, or visit branfordarts.org/events.

: 33 West Ave: For info, visit rivervalleyartists.com. by River Valley Artists: Runs through May.

New Works

Guilford Art Center

: 411 Church St.: For info, call 203453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Local Color 7: Circular Thinking

: Runs through Feb. 28.

Guilford Free Library

: 67 Park St. For info, contact 203535-9442 or EileenClarkArt@gmail.com.

All Mixed Up

: Runs through Feb. 27.

Lyman Allyn Art Museum

: 625 Williams St., New London. For info, call 860-443-2545, ext. 2129, or visit lymanallyn.org.

Art in the Holocaust

: Runs through Feb. 15

Lyme Art Association

: 90 Lyme St., Old Lyme: For info, call 860-434-7802 or visit lymeartassociation.org.

First Impressions: 34th Annual Associate Artists Show

: Runs through Feb. 20.

Congratulations

: Runs through Feb. 20.

The Artists Garden

: Runs through Feb. 20.

This Land is Your Land

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Animal Kingdom

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Stillness: A Still Life

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Abstracted

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Faces & Figures

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Madison Center for History and Culture

: Lee’s Academy, 14 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison: For info, call MHS at 203-245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org.

This Side of Paradise

: Runs through March.

New Haven Museum

: 114 Whitney Ave. For info, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

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

: Runs through February.

Pronounced Ah-Beetz

: Runs through October 2027.

Susan Powell Fine Art

Runs through March 14. : 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info, call 203-318-0616, email susanpowellfineart@gmail.com, or visit susanpowellfineart.com.

Valentine Gems

: Runs through Feb. 28.

Valentine H. Zahn Community Gallery

: Middlesex

Health Shoreline Medical Center, 250 Flat Rock Pl., Westbrook: For info, email galleryonect@gmail.com or visit MiddlesexHealth.org/ZahnGallery.

Visual Dialogues

Under Observation New Work by 21 River Valley Artists

: Runs through Feb. 27. : : Runs March 9 through May 15.

Yale University Art Gallery

: 1111 Chapel St., New Haven. For info, call 203-432-0600 or visit artgallery.yale.edu/visit/exhibitions.

American Impressionism

John Coplans

August Sander’s People of the 20th Century

: Runs through June 14. : Runs through June 14. : Runs Feb. 27 through June 28.

Jes Fan: Unbounded

: Runs Feb. 27 through June 28.

Keeping Alive the Remembrance: Commemorating America's Founding, 1776–1876

Music

Bill’s Seafood Restaurant:

: Runs through Oct. 11. Rte. 1, Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-7224 or visit BillsSeafood.com.

First and third Wednesdays: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Corinthian Jazz Band.

First and third Fridays: 7 to 9 p.m. Bill’s Seafood All-Star Jazz Band.

Second and fourth Fridays: 6:30 to 9 p.m. The Modeans. Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Various performers. Sundays: 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Various performers.

Edward A. Norton VFW Post 7666:

104 Mill Rd., Guilford. No cover. For info, call 203-214-5874. Mondays: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Big Swing Band with Tuxedo Junction.

See page 29

Lyme Academy of Fine Arts Hosts Lectures by Met Curators

The Lyme Academy of Fine Arts presents two ticketed events featuring curators from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

At 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, the Lyme Academy offers “An Introduction to

Seeing

Silence: The Paintings of Helene Schjerfbeck

,” a guest lecture and book signing with Dita Amory, Robert Lehman curator in charge at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Tickets are available for the lecture at $30 and for the lecture and book at $65. This lecture introduces the Finnish artist Helene Schjerfbeck (1862-1946), renowned throughout Finland but little known in the U.S. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the first major U.S. museum to present her work.

On Saturday, March 7, the Lyme Academy hosts another special guest lecture, “Portrait, Likeness, Type: Jean-Léon Gérôme’s ,” presented by Asher Miller, Eugene V. Thaw curator of European art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Bashi-Bazouk

The 5 p.m. lecture will be followed by a brief conversation with Emily M. Weeks, Lyme Academy’s principal art historian, and a preview of Lyme Academy’s forthcoming exhibition,

The New Bronze Age: Masterpieces of 19th- and Early 20th-Century Sculpture

from the Karlheinz Kronberger Collection.

Continued from page 28

Nightingale’s Acoustic Café:

A reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will conclude the evening. Tickets for the exhibition preview event with guest lecture and reception are available for $100 per guest. Proceeds from this event benefit Lyme Academy’s ChaunceyStillman Exhibition Program and all future >Lyme Academy exhibitions.

68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Donation $5 to $10 at the door. For info, email gstevens@musicnowfoundation.org or visit musicnowfoundation.org.

For more information about the guest lecturers or tickets for both events, visit www.lymeacademy.edu.

About Lyme Academy

The mission of the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts is to teach the foundational skills of drawing, painting, and sculpture in the

The Tap Room at The Griswold Inn:

36 Main St., Essex. No cover charge. For info, call 860-767-1776 or visit griswoldinn.com.

Fridays: 8:30 p.m. to midnight. Psychedelic ‘60s.

The Shore Line Trolley Museum:

17 River St., East

figurative tradition. By its commitment to training students in these skills and an engagement with contemporary discourse, the academy will empower a new generation of artists. Through its programs, Lyme Academy is committed to enriching the cultural life of the community.

6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. On temporary break for winter. Bring your own acoustic instrument. No registration required. For info, call 203245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Tuesdays: 6 to 8 p.m. Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Last Friday: 7 to 9 p.m. Teen Open Mic. Sweet Saturday Nights: 7 to 9 p.m. Various performers. : 1525

Haven. Cost: $5 suggested donation. For info, call 203467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

First Tuesday: 6 to 9 p.m. Bluegrass acoustic and traditional music.

Seaview Bistro at Water's Edge Resort & Spa

Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, visit watersedgeresortandspa.com.

Fridays and Saturdays: 9 p.m. to midnight. Various performers.

The Choo Choo Lounge at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina:

2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-3952000.

Thursdays and Sundays: 6 to 9 p.m. Live music.

The Highliner III:

139 Essex Rd., Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-5042 or visit thehighliner3.com.

Fridays and Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Live music. Second and fourth Thursdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Open mic.

The Wharf:

Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. For info, call 203-350-0014 or visit thewharfmadison.com. Fridays: 8 to 10 p.m. Acoustic Fridays. Various performers.

Groups and Activities

A Journey Through America’s Past:

10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. Free. Registration is required to receive a Zoom link. For info, contact 203-245-5695 or gillespiee@madisonct.org.

Ask-A-Lawyer: A Free Legal Clinic:

5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Book Club:

6:30 to 7:30 p.m. First Tuesday. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

10:30 a.m. First Sunday. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. For grieving parents, grandparents, and siblings suffering the loss of children and family members. For info, call Vanessa Pentz at 203-645-7777.

Bereaved Parents USA and PS It Hurts Support Group: Bingo

: 7 p.m. Mondays. East Creek Landing, 390 S. Union St., Guilford. Doors open 5 p.m. Light refreshments. Cost: $15. Hosted by the Knights of Columbus Council 3928. For info, call 203-453-2801.

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.

Real Estate Transactions

: Danielle L. and Jason Rodriguez to Jesus Melecio and Geovanna G. Jara, $440,000 on Jan. 29

115 Chestnut Street

: Paps LLC to 115 Chestnut LLC, $150,000 on Jan. 29

Pine Orchard Road

: Glaser Lt and Herman A. Glaser to Maureen J Lage T and Maureen J. Lage, $2,075,000 on Jan. 27

: Canterbury Fund LLC to Misahel J. Gonzalez, $270,000 on Jan. 28

: 321 Investments LLC to Golden Prop Solutions LLC, $310,000 on Jan. 29

: Regina R. Wohlke to 321 Investments LLC, $275,000 on Jan. 29

: George Gerl to Kjs Interests LLC, $470,000 on Jan. 28

: Ann O Richards Real Estate Trust and Mark Richards to Holbrook T and Paul R. Holbrook, $550,000 on Jan. 27

: William J. and Joanne C. Hastings to James Luce, $2,245,000 on Jan. 28

: Mark J. and Mary E. Oneil to Steven Stainbrook and Guillermo E. Gonzales, $1,285,000 on Jan. 28

: Estate of Barbara A. Fulller and Keith L. Ridenour to Caroline A. Kupiec, $418,000 on Jan. 29

: Drive K.

Keszler to Essex 39 Court LLC, $1,050,000 on Jan. 28

: Raymond W. and Francine A. Fucci to Sutman T and Heston Sutman, $235,000 on Jan. 30

: John G. and Mary A. Humphrey to Maria CalamitoProto Real Estate Trust and Maria Calamito-Proto, $605,000 on Jan. 29

275 Route 148

: Florence H. Marrone to Daniel Knudsen, $730,000 on Jan. 27

: Damen Inc to Francis J. Marfyak, $14,292 on Jan. 28

25 Copperstone Lane

: Christopher G. Walther to Mia P. Estadella, $567,000 on Jan. 30

7 Madrina Lane

NORTH BRANFORD

: Matthew J. Dellecave to Kevin J. Johnson and Lori A. Dodd, $500,000 on Jan. 29 :

229 Branford Road Unit 519

Joshua J. Demaio to Peter and Ghislaine Jelacic, $325,000 on Jan. 28 :

Carole A. Massara to Rita M. Bailey, $149,000 on Jan. 27

: Wheeler Anna T to Ott Ft, $1,800,000 on Jan. 29 : Helena Machain to Luka LLC, $1,100,000 on Jan. 28

: Jay F. Malcynsky to Fortitude Marine Ent, $25,000 on Jan. 28 : Westbrook Placeaceace LLC to Fratelli Hld Co LLC, $1,000,000 on Jan. 28 : Glen M. and Debra L. Ballou to Brian and Amy Mclaughlin, $52,500 on Jan. 28

: Ronald Belcourt to Donald F. Tedford, $672,000 on Jan. 28

: Nancy Lyon and Joan F. Oshea to Bridget A. Cunningham and Daniel Santiago, $343,000 on Jan. 28

Meat Hill Road

: Sam E. and Lea M. Fernandez to Thomas and Paige Abbate, $800,000 on Jan. 27

OLD SAYBROOK

James P. and Judith A. Owens to Joshua and Erin Holtzberg, $669,000 on Jan. 27 :

Matthew and Maria Aquino to Tamberlyn Chapman, $715,000 on Jan. 28

: Robin Kempner and Mary A. Noa-Kempner to Jeffrey and Candace Johnson, $660,000 on Jan. 29

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

Copyright material of Banker and

/ the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.