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Harbor News 02-05-26

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February 5, 2026

Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXIX Iss. 6

The Kate Eyes Proposed Major Addition in 2026

Old Saybrook’s Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center is proposing a major expansion project that would add two floors and 7,200 square feet to the building. The Kate expects to bring applications for the project to town boards later in 2026.

Robin Andreoli, the director of development and community relations for The Kate, said the organization is seeking to add a twostory 7,200-square-foot addition on the building, as well as improvements to other parts of the current building. The new space would include four flexible multi-use rooms that could be joined together to make a second event space for acoustic performances, lectures, dances, and more. The proposed con-

struction would not affect the current main theater, Andreoli said.

According to Andreoli, upgrading the Kate has been something that leadership has been considering for a while. Over the years, as The Kate has become more popular, the limitations of the current space has become apparent Andreoli said.

See The Kate page 7

Students from The Morgan School recycle donated cans and bottles into the machines outside Big Y Supermarket in Clinton on Saturday, Jan. 31. The students, members of the Clinton Police Youth Group and Tara Lawrie's intensive learning program, worked with School Resource Officer Brian Corbin, Sgt. Spencer Mangs and K9 Jagger to collect bottles, cans and donations to fund sensory bags created through the Linked Autism Safety Project. The bags help first responders respond to calls involving individuals with sensory needs.

Poet has found a sense of community.......................2

A Key Win

Westbrook girls’ basketball secured a major win over Valley Regional on their path to earn a trip to the postseason.................................19

Celebrating the Creative Spirit

The Lyme Art Association is presenting An Exhibition in Five Acts......................................23

Juliana Harris
PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ HarborNews

All Welcome at the Guilford Poets Guild, Says Juliana Harris

Like all forms of art, poetry has the ability to bring people from all ages and walks of life together and bond over memories, worldviews, and beautiful crafted sentences. This is the sense of community that local poets like Guilford resident Juliana Harris have found for 17 years with the Guilford Poets Guild.

Juliana joined the Guilford Poets Guild in 2008, “on behalf of my dear friend Yvonne Scott,” she says. It was the “wonderful, warm supportive group” that compelled Juliana to keep returning and participate in biweekly shared poetry review sessions.

“We meet every two weeks, and we submit a poem to be critiqued, and the critiques are always insightful, but very supportive and kind,” she says.

Some creative artist-types, writers or not, may find inspiration only as it appears in a serendipitous way. But for Juliana, knowing her poetry will

be reviewed by guild members every two weeks is a source of comfort.

“I think, ‘Oh, I got two weeks to come up with something,’ and inevitably something comes. I have to say, there have been times when the muse didn’t strike, and in that case, I sit there and say, ‘I don’t have a poem, but I want to hear yours.’”

Being part of a group that literally listens and understands the world as an individual comprehends it through words is the sense of community Juliana says all future members of the guild - with no Guilford residency required - should expect.

The guild regularly hosts its monthly open mic poetry readings at the Guilford Free Library every second Thursday starting at 6:30 p.m.

The second Thursday of next

month, Feb. 12, will mark a particularly exciting day for Juliana, when her “dearest, old friend” and distinguished poet Patricia Cleary Miller will be reading some of her own work.

“She is known internationally and she has won the Pushcart Prize,” says Juliana. “That is quite a star in anybody’s crowd! I encourage everybody to come and listen. It’ll be wonderful.”

Originally from Kansas City, Juliana has lived in Guilford for 45 years. She finds both the community and the look of Guilford to be inspiring for her poems, one of which she recently submitted to the Connecticut River Poets society.

“I submitted a poem called ‘Only the Houses Are the Same,’ which was a remembrance of driving down Broad Street and looking at the houses and remembering all the people I had known who had lived there.”

She describes Guilford as a “wonderful community of bright and See All Welcome page 8

Photo Courtesy of Guilford Poets Guild Juliana Harris has found a sense of community as part of the Guilford Poets Guild, for whom membership is open to all.

Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 1998

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Saybrook Point Opportunity

For the town of Old Saybrook to obtain the last parcel of land at Saybrook Point is a unique opportunity to provide for residents and visitors for years to come. It is the most important decision for this area since Steffie Walters told First Selectman Barbara Maynard that she had to buy the Sandbar, now the Duffy Pavilion.

The proposed plan protects and preserves an exceptional parcel of land for public use. It proposes an historically thoughtful, environmentally sensitive and economically productive plan of development subject to further input

from residents and approval by local boards.

Instead of a crumbling asphalt area with water-filled potholes suitable for seagulls, we will obtain a park with incomparable views, passive recreation, waterfront walkways, a new entertainment venue and a casual restaurant. And all of this at minimal cost to taxpayers.

Let’s get this done for ourselves, our children and our children’s children.

Harbor House Condos To Get Public Hearing Feb. 23

Westbrook’s Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing in February over a proposal to turn the former Viking Motel property at 756 Boston Post Road into a housing complex. The application calls for the construction of a new building with 20 condominiums. The public hearing is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 23 at Town Hall at 7 p.m.

The application from Harbor House Condominiums, LLC was received by the Zoning Commission at meeting on Dec. 22.

A public hearing was originally supposed to take place on Jan. 26, but the applicant requested on Jan. 23 to continue to the public heating until February and the meeting on the 26th was canceled due to a snowstorm.

At the public hearing, members of the public can speak for, against, or neutrally on the proposal.

The former Viking motel had sat aban-

doned and blighted until Darien developers Vincent and Carl Vescera bought the property last September. The 1.03-acre parcel is located just past Haywire Burger Bar. The motel was recently demolished, according to documents filed with the application.

Under the proposed application received by the zoning commission, the former motel property will see a new two-story building constructed that will contain 20 residential units. A September press release announcing the sale pitched the proposed condos as ideal for those downsizing from a larger home or for young couples who prefer not to purchase a house.

Besides the residential components, there will be a 204-square-foot rental space available for a retail component. Developer Vincent Vescera did not respond to multiple messages seeking comment for this story.

Ready for the Mission

Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS) announces a new adventure club for grade 4 students called “Mission Ready.” Students will go on mini "missions," try new challenges, explore their community, and build the skills they need to feel confident and capable. The club features a regular session on four Thursdays through Feb. 26 (no session on Feb. 19) at Kathleen E. Goodwin Elementary School, 80 Old Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook. The cost is $20 for all four weeks. For more information, contact 860-510-5050 or jessica.wood@oldsaybrookct.gov.

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Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier
Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography
Editorial Staff

Obituaries

Obituary

Doreen Jordan

Deep River

Doreen Lynn LeMaire Jordan passed away Jan. 19, 2026, at Hartford Hospital. She was born in Springfield, Mass. on May 13, 1949 to Rodney LeMaire and Ruth LeMaire. She went to Old Saybrook schools and lived in the Shoreline area all of her life.

She made Deep River her home for the last 38 years.

Some will remember her time behind the counter of the Brown Derby Donut shop where she helped in her family’s business. She worked at the Lee Company from 1989 to 2013 when she retired. She worked her way up to be group leader of the compression molding group there working with the engineers and machinists developing new products.

She made many friendships with her coworkers and enjoyed bringing joy to the workplace, arranging their parties and establishing an audible book library for all to share.

Doreen was a two-time cancer survivor who bravely faced the treatments and after effects of those treatments which forever changed her life.

To get out and meet people, she worked at the nascent Pandemonium Thrift shop in Deep River until she lacked the energy to continue. It was while working at the Brown Derby in 1982 that a young man came in for coffee one night and a relationship blossomed. They married in 1985, and had many adventures, renovating their home in Deep River adding her special touches to make it a warm loving gathering spot for family and friends. They restored a 1971 Chris Craft boat where they traveled the Sound and the river, making many friends in the boating community. Again she added her special touches to Old Salt, choosing interior fabrics and making it a showpiece.

Many trips taking her grandsons fishing and teaching them boating

brought her happiness. She also enjoyed the many trips taken in their Austin Healey Sprite, traveling to events with the Austin Healey Club or trips with their friends Peter and Janet Downie, who shared their love of cars.

She loved her many trips with her daughter to the Grand Old Opry, New York City and other places and loved her grand dogs. She lived for her two grandsons who were the light of her life and was proud of her son who runs his own landscaping company and his wife who works with special needs children. She missed the many adventures she had with the late Nile Barrett with whom she shared grandmother duties. They had many fun times shopping and trips to Hobby Lobby.

Doreen is survived by her loving husband, Frederick Jordan of Deep River; her daughter Michelle Medeiros of Westport, Mass.; her son and daughterin-law Daniel C Medeiros Jr. and wife Marlow of Westbrook; and two grandsons, Cooper and Brodie Medeiros. She leaves two sisters, Roddelle Johnson and her husband Clifford of Old Saybrook, and Leslie LeMaire and her partner John Wolfert of Old Lyme; her niece Jennifer Johnson Murillo and husband Louis of South Carolina; and niece Dellann Norman of Meriden.

She was predeceased by a nephew, Brandon Norman. She also leaves an uncle, Charles Chapman and his wife Geraldine of Westbrook; and numerous cousins. She also leaves some special friends, Peter and Janet Downie who were best man and maid of honor, Barbara Lunn of Deep River and her “sister from another mother” Gini Johnson of Pembroke, Mass., and so many more.

Calling hours will be 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, with a service around 1 p.m. at Robinson Wright and Weymer in Centerbrook. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Estuary of Old Saybrook, 220 Main Street Old Saybrook CT 06475. There will be a graveside service at the Fountain Hill Cemetery in Deep River in May on a date to be announced.

Contacting Harbor News

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Town Committees

Best of Greece

Ian Coyne, Laurie Jaffe, Bruce King, Laurie King, Cinzia Lettieri, Terri O’Rourke, Larry Ouellette, Zachary Plourde, Brian Roccapriore, Miachel Rossi, Barbara Segaloff, Tom Schultz, Hank Teskey, Michael Valenti.

Eddie Alberino, Joe Alves, Chris Aniskovich, Walter “Beau” Clark, David Carroll, Robert Corson, Donna Dunn, Jerry Dunn, Barbara Farmer, Bruce Farmer, Charles Ferrarro, Mike Florio, Matt Guarnieri, Curtis Guilford, Julia King, Kieth Kleinschmidt, Marc Palmeri, Lawrence Pilcher, Dave Roberts, Mary Saunders, Leah Saunders, Holly Sepowski, Mike Shove, Brian Smith, Mary Young, Robert Voss, Carol Walter, Dylan Walter, Candy Way. Rick Way, John

John Bech, Chet Bialicki, Jim Crawford, Joe DeCurtis, Chris Ehlert, Ryan Engels, Elizbeth Fabrizi Marie Farrell, Joanie Ferenbach, Paula Fitzgerald, Elizabeth Genolio- Melly , Vincent Gentile, Zack Hayden ,Kate Hyden Gilstad, Belinda Jones, Reagan Krane ,Andrew Livingstone, Lee Luft, Mary Luft Ella, Kristen Meyer, Vivian Partridge, George Pytlik Jr, Maclean Sarr, Kate Zapadka.

Dean Artkop, Cindy Beaulieu, Howard Benisvy, Sandy Bergeron, Stephen Bergeron, Colleen Bloom, Kimberly Bratz, Joe Campbell, Heather Cassidy, Tony Cozza, Daniel Cyr, Jonathon Einhorn, Elizabeth Fernandes, Ray Fontana Jr., Karl Gelotte, Daniel Genovese, Bonnie Hall, John Hall III, Sid Holbrook, Jack Horne, Darlene Jones, Chrissy Kuehlewind, Richard Kuehlewind, Richard Newberg, Linda Nolf, Jan Panella, Donald Perreault, Katherine Richard, Joseph Richards, Daniel Ruppenicker, Harry Ruppenicker Jr, Gabby Spash, Steve Strzepek, Kim Walker, Paul Winch.

See Town Committees page 11

The Kate Eyes Proposed Major Addition in 2026

from increased space, Andreoli said.

paign will be planned for the future.

As an example, Andreoli said that the annual summer camp that The Kate holds has expanded from just one module for young children to a seven week module with two different age brackets. “We have a waitlist now with 100 kids on it, that’s a lot of kids to have to turn down because we don’t have the space,” Andreoli said.

She also pointed to a recent ukulele workshop that was popular with the community, but noted the only space that could hold the workshop was the main stage. With the expansion, Andreoli said that similar workshops or lectures, or other events could be held in the multi-use rooms, while the stage is kept free for more performances. Ticket revenue from performances is a major funding source for The Kate, Andreoli said.

It isn’t just the performances or programs that would benefit

“We went form a staff of two to a staff of 10, and we’re all sitting on top of each other,” Andreoli added.

Next Steps

The preliminary cost for the expansion is in the $10-15 million range, according to Andreoli. The building is on town property, and Andreoli said that Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna has given The Kate support to begin exploring options related to the expansion. Andreoli said that The Kate has already spoken to the State Office of Historic Preservation due to the building’s status as a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.

“Funding is going to be the biggest thing,” Andreoli said.

Currently, Andreoli said the plan is to approach long-term donors and ask for support, but said a public fundraising cam-

Fortuna told the Harbor News that since the project was early in the stages and there are no official applications there isn’t much he can say right now. “ It is potentially a big project on a town building so town funding will be required for a portion of the project. The question will be how much,” Fortuna said.

On Jan. 26, The Kate made a presentation to the town’s land use boards detailing the proposed expansion and next steps.

“It was very well attended despite the storm,” Andreoli said.

Andreoli said she anticipates The Kate coming to individual boards and commissions in Old Saybrook with applications within the next three to five months.

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center is a nonprofit performing arts organi-

zation that first opened in 2009. Located at 300 Main St. in Old Saybrook, the space is dedicated to hosting various performing arts as well as honoring actress and icon

Katharine Hepburn, whose starring roles included “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” “The Lion in Winter” and “On Golden Pond.” She won four Best Actress Oscars over the years.

Hepburn first came to Old Saybrook in the early 1900s as a child and eventually retired in the Fenwick section before her death in 2003. A museum dedicated to the actress is located on the premises of The Kate.

A 285-seat theater regularly hosts acts in a wide variety of genres, and over the years major names in the entertainment world have stopped by the building. The organization annually hosts about 300 performances a year and serves about 70,000 people.

All Welcome at the Guilford Poets Guild, Says Juliana Harris

guild said, ‘Hey, let’s put these together.’”

creative people for one thing. But, of course, it is beautiful graphically.”

Juliana has contributed poems to The New York Times and her hometown paper The Kansas City Star. One poem was published in the Times’ Metropolitan Diary, and three were printed in the Star while Juliana was a member of the Kansas City Writers Group.

She is also the author of two novels“The Fork in the Road” and “Pacific Heights” - and the poetry collection “Portraits,” a chapbook about Juliana’s family, dedicated to her grandchildren. When it came to its publication, once again guild members expressed their support

“I was encouraged by the guild to create a chapbook, because I had read these poems and shared them with the guild over the years, and they said, ‘You got to put these together,’” she says. “I come from a very interesting family. That was part of it. But, over the years I had written a poem

Juliana is also the author of two murder mysteries that take place in Guilford titled “Murder at the Tavern” and “Murder at Pine Brooks.” She was inspired by a strange occurrence that happened one night involving a local man named Rufus Bishop.

“I was late for a PTO meeting at Cox [Elementary] School on a November night ,and Rufus appeared out of the darkness carrying a big walking stick and he greeted me and went on his way. I thought, ‘What in the world was Rufus doing out here at this time of night?’ And I further thought that would make a good start for the mystery: a member of a prominent family out late at night. That sat in the back of my brain for many years, and for some reason it came out about five years ago and I thought ‘I’m gonna start writing that.’”

She has already found success and a following with her mystery stories, having garnered the attention of local readers hungry for more murder mysteries.

said ‘When is the next one?’ And several people have said, ‘I’m interested in one particular character. I think you should follow him and write the next one about him.’”

Whether they are interested in poetry, murder mysteries, or stories about family, all those interested in writing are encouraged to swing by the Guilford Free Library on the open mic poetry nights. It could be an inspirational occasion for Guilford High School students, whose young writers Juliana is particularly fond of having supported up to today.

“I think probably the most important thing to me about the guild is our support of our young students,” she says. “We go to the high school every April during National Poetry Month, and we speak with the students, and we encourage them, and they submit to our contest. We have an annual contest, and they are just amazing.”

For more information on the Guilford Poets Guild and the upcoming reading by Patricia Cleary Miller, visit https://guilford

CZEPIGA

Greater Old Saybrook Chamber Seeking New Director

The Greater Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce will once again be looking for a new executive director just six months after hiring the last one. A job description has been posted, and the chamber’s former director has returned in an interim basis.

In December 2024, longtime GOSC Executive Director Judy Sullivan announced she would be retiring the following spring. Following her announcement, the chamber conducted a wideranging search for a new director. Eventually, the chamber’s board of directors named Andrew Surprise as Sullivan’s replacement and he began his role at the end of June 2025.

Six months later, the chamber finds itself again starting a new search. Chris Bird, the president of the chamber’s Board of Directors, declined to comment on why Surprise is no longer with the chamber but said the board hopes the new director can connect with people, bring leadership qualities, and demonstrate “a love of the community.”

“We have some great candidates and are looking forward to a fantastic 2026,” Bird said.

To assist with the transition and search, Sullivan has resumed executive director duties until a new director is found. Bird said Sullivan will have more flexibility in her interim role.

On Jan. 16, the GOSC posted a job description seeking “a dynamic, community-oriented leader” to become the organization’s next executive director. According to the description, the executive director role is a full-ltime position that blends leadership, outreach, and event planning in service of the organization’s mission of supporting the local business community.

The position pays between $75,000 and $85,000. Interested candidates can read the full description and apply on the chamber’s website at https://gos chamber.com/.

Formed in 1939, the chamber “advances the economic vitality and quality of life in the Old Saybrook region through programs and services for its members and community,” according to its website. The chamber fulfills its mission through a variety of public and member-only events.

A message seeking comment from Surprise was not returned.

High school students are invited to audition for a place in The Anglican Singers, artists-in-residence at St. James Episcopal Church in New London. The choir is dedicated to preserving the English choral tradition of choral evensong. Selected singers will rehearse weekly from September through May in New London, receive instruction from Music Director Simon Holt, and sing alongside experienced vocalists. The group performs up to eight services and concerts during the season at St. James Episcopal Church, 76 Federal Street, New London, and at venues from Mystic to New Haven. Students accepted into the program must pass an audition with Holt and will receive a $500 stipend toward voice lessons or relevant training. Positions are open in the soprano, alto, tenor, and bass sections. For more information or to audition, email Simon Holt at smo.artisticdirector@yahoo.com.

Scholarships for Connecticut Women

The Connecticut Federation of Women’s Clubs announces two scholarships for Connecticut women pursuing advanced courses of study at institutions of higher learning. Awards are granted on the basis of future promise, scholastic ability, and financial need. The Dorothy E. Schoelzel memorial scholarship has a maximum award of $2,000. Candidates must have completed three or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher in the field of education. The Phipps scholarship has a maximum award of $1,000. Candidates must have completed two or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher toward a bachelor’s or post-graduate degree. Completed applications, including general and personal information, a financial statement, instructor/employer references, and an official transcript of at least the most recent two years of undergraduate or graduate work, must be received by Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026. To download an application form, visit northfordnbwomensclubgfwc.org/ education. For more information, call Rose Lynch at 203-483-8395.

Q: Dear Linda- I have heard that Sprigs & Twigs has an Organic Lawn Care Program and I’d like to know more about it. My husband puts down bags of stuff on our lawn and I’m worried he’s doing something harmful. Thank you, - Kathy

A: ANSWER #4 (CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK):

Hello Kathy- Sprigs & Twigs offers the only true, 100% Organic Lawn Care Program in the area; we would be happy to visit with you and explain it in more detail.

Let us take a closer look at the drawbacks of synthetic chemical lawn care programs offered by others (CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK…):

# 2 Chemical synthetic fertilizers: (a) are loaded with mineral salts which sterilize and disinfect the soil, killing beneficial earthworms, microbes, fungi, bacteria and organisms, (b) make your soil increasingly acidic every time these fertilizers are applied, inviting more weed growth and hindering strong turf grass growth, (c) over-stimulate grass plants with high levels of nitrogen beyond what grass can handle which forces lush, rapid growth. This rapid grass growth stresses and weakens the grass and encourages lawn pests and diseases to set in. Because of the increased pest and disease presence created by the chemical fertilization, chemical lawn care companies routinely apply pest and disease control chemicals which non-selectively kill more of the beneficial microbes, fungi, bacteria living in the soil.

#3 High nitrogen chemical fertilization in the summer helps weeds more than the turf grass. In this region, cool season turf grasses predominate. These grasses grow best in the cooler months of the spring and the fall. In the heat of the summer, they go dormant. Summer application of high nitrogen, synthetic chemical fertilizers over-stimulates and forces rapid grass growth during periods when grass is trying to go dormant to store energy. Weeds on the other hand, are warm season plants that love to be fertilized in the heat of the summer.

# 4 Using a chemical lawn care program to create a lush green lawn is creating a chemical “dump” in your lawn that can cause cancer and other health problem in your pets and a create a growing concern for people as well. There are numerous studies by respected researchers and universities that confirm the undeniable link between lawn herbicides and pesticides and dog cancers.

#5 Lawn care product manufacturers have said for years that it is safe for children and pets to go on lawns immediately or “after the product dries” but many lawn care chemicals are not safe even when they dry. They can remain active for months and release vapors when walked on or when the grass is cut. Airborne dust from these products can blow around the neighborhood from excess fertilization.

CONTINUED NEXT WEEK…

Choral Scholarship Program for High School Students

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN!

Obituaries

Obituary Kathleen Foley Old Saybrook

Kathleen Foley, of Old Saybrook, passed away on Jan. 16, 2026, at the age of 68. Kathleen was born on Feb. 3, 1957, in Hartford, and was raised by her parents, Leona Foley and Al Foley. She was preceded in death by her older brother Marty; and is survived by her younger siblings, brothers, Thomas and Kevin; and her sister Aileen.

Driven by her passion for art, Kathleen graduated from Old Saybrook High School in 1975, painting her own self portrait as her senior photo. Subsequently, she attended the Massachusetts College of Art in Boston where she obtained her bachelor's degree.

In her younger years, she explored many artistic mediums, including drawing, painting, pottery, and glass art. These experiences helped shape her lifelong creative identity. Art remained an essential part of Kathleen's life.

Pottery became her primary medium, and she maintained studios both at her parents' home and later her own. She worked hands-on with kilns and created a wide variety of handmade pieces. Her creative work reflected her intellect, curiosity and care.

Old Saybrook was always her home, where she returned after a short stint in Boston and would remain the rest of her life. She married Bob Simoni, and together they had three sons: Jason, Matthew and Gabriel.

Later divorced, Kathleen devoted herself fully to raising her boys in Old Saybrook. Though she was an artist by training and nature, Kathleen's greatest role was being a mother. She cen-

tered her time, energy, and attention on raising her three sons, always putting their needs first, and ensuring they would be kind and successful members of society.

She is survived by her sons, Jason Simoni (and his partner Samantha), Matthew Simoni (and his wife Christine), and Gabriel Simoni; and by her beloved grandchildren, Olivia (7) and Dillion (4), who share a similar penchant for her art.

Professionally, Kathleen worked for the Town of Old Saybrook and was deeply rooted in her community. She was a frequent attendee of Town Hall meetings, and as many know well, always had an opinion to be voiced. Kathleen was also well known throughout Old Saybrook for riding her bicycle around town. She could often be seen pedaling along local roads in all seasons, steadily making her way from place to place. It was a simple, familiar sight that became part of the rhythm of the community, and one that reflected her independence, determination, and connection to the town she loved. Kathleen loved to travel and explore, finding joy in new places and experiences throughout her life. Kathleen will be remembered as a devoted mother, a lifelong artist, and a woman whose fierce strength, creativity, and presence shaped the lives of those around her. She was heard in every room she walked into.

Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and the many works of art she created by hand — and in the memories of those who saw her riding through town, living her life simply and on her own terms.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, at St. John's Church in Old Saybrook.

Obituaries

Continued from page 10

Obituary

Charles Brown III

Westbrook

Charles “ Chuck” Brown III, 76, of Westbrook, passed away peacefully on Dec. 26, 2025. He was born on April 26, 1949 in Clinton, to his late parents, Charles Brown II and Dorothy (Hoyt) Brown.

He graduated from the Morgan School in Clinton where he was a threesport athlete in soccer, basketball and baseball. Baseball was his first love where he was a standout pitcher. He pitched a perfect game in the state tournament against Guilford.

Chuck was a self-employed electrical contractor for over 40 years. During

that time, he made many valuable friendships with many clients and other contractors.

One of Chuck’s favorite things was watching his granddaughters play softball and field hockey. He was known as “ Papa” by his granddaughters and they always enjoyed having him at all of their games rooting them on.

Chuck is survived by and will be dearly missed by his wife of 54 years Janet Brown of Westbrook; son Daniel Brown of Westbrook; and his two granddaughters, Sydney and Savanna Brown of Westbrook.

Town Committees Choose Members

Continued from page 6

Old Saybrook

DTC

Elieen Baker, Michael Bender, Gail Bergmiller, Meghan Brady, Donald Brodeur Jr, Teri Bruce, Jean Caron, Richard Caron, Paul Connolly, Susan Esty, David Fogel, Laura Gray, Mark Hand, Colin Heffernan, Marijke Kehrhahn, Robin Kelly, Jeff Kotkin, C Marston Ladd, Laura Larese-Therrien, Carolyn Lyle, Marcia Machuga, Ed Machuga, Carol Manning, Andrew Morosky, Jill Notar-Francesco, Mary Jane Peterson, Karen Prendergast, Matthew Pugliese, Elizabeth Rosenthal, Deborah Shah, Nancy Walsh, William Webb, Alfred Wilcox, Marcia Wilcox, Jane Wisalowski.

GriefShare Meetings Start February

RTC

Jason Becker, Sarah V Becker, Alex Bertran, Joan Broadhurst, Mark Caldarella, Devin Carney, Paul Carver, Erin Colwell, Kevin Danby, Marc Delmonico, Barbara Dennison, Eric Dussault, Carl P. Fortuna, Charles Gadon, Scott M Giegerich, Laura Gregory, John J Henry, Susan Hitchcock, Steve Johnson, Jeff Jordan, Paula Kay, Michael Kelly, Barbara Krucko, Barbara Labriola, Jerry Labriola, Geraldine Lewis ,Nick Prevost, Susan Quish, Charles Savage ,Alan Schwarz, Thomas Stevenson, Eileen Stirling, Rick Swan, Theresa Watford ,James Wakim, Grant Westerson, Leeann Flynn, Kahryn Toolan.

GriefShare is a weekly faith-based bereavement support group that offers help, encouragement, and support after the death of a spouse, child, other family member, or friend. Sponsored by Christ Chapel of Madison, this support group meets on Sundays from noon to 2 p.m. The next session starts Sunday, Feb. 8, to provide support for the loss of a spouse. The regular GriefShare cycle will start Sunday, Feb. 15, and will run through early June. The weekly format includes supportive discussion about video content and a journaling workbook reinforcing each week’s topics. The workbook will be available to purchase at the meetings for a one-time fee of $20. The book for the loss of a spouse program is $12. All are welcome. The 13 sessions follow a logical progression from initial grief to the process of moving on and finding a “new normal.” If registered participants miss a session, they can view the video at griefshare.org. For more information or to register, call Sue Granniss at 860-913-1654 or specify “Madison, CT” at griefshare.org/findagroup.

Obituary Gerald Drechsler Clinton

Gerald "Jerry" Edward Drechsler, born on Nov. 13, 1940, in Meriden, to the late Stanley Drechsler and Irene SobolewskiLaQuerre, passed away Jan. 21, 2026.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Faith Drechsler; and children Shelley Taylor and her husband Rich, Daniel Drechsler and his wife Andrea, and Susan Moutta and her husband Bobby. He is predeceased by a sister, Joy Dondero; and survived by a brother, Mark Drechsler; and sister Mary Drechsler. He was blessed with four granddaughters: Alexa, Ariana, Halley and Hannah; two step-grandsons, Noah and Ben; and a great-granddaughter, Vivienne.

He attended Notre Dame High School in West Haven, where he excelled as a student and received medals for Excellence in religion and marksmanship. He graduated from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, N.Y. with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Jerry began his professional career at Terry Steam Turbine in Hartford, and spent the remaining 27 years of his career at Northeast Utilities (NU) in Maintenance & Reliability Engineering where he was frequently commended for his dedication, rotating machinery expertise, and delivering cost savings and productivity improvements.

He maintained a Professional Engineer’s license and received the distinguished Engineer of the Year Award from the American Society of Mechani-

cal Engineers (ASME). Jerry co-founded the Millstone Scuba team, which inspected intake structures and water containment vessels. He dove recreationally and performed equipment maintenance and recovery for the Westbrook commercial fishing fleet.

In his youth, Jerry was an avid fisherman, hunter and trapper. He grew into a “jack-of-all-trades,” mastering auto mechanics, carpentry, masonry, electrical, plumbing and landscaping. He was a collector of military memorabilia, millstones, ship heads, and mermaid keepsakes, and stewarded an award-winning naval weapons collection. Dubbed “Clinton’s Anchor Man,” he spent many years researching, salvaging, buying and selling anchors.

He was an avid stone cutter, crafting tables, benches, steps, gardens, walkways and bird baths.

Jerry was a generous donor of time, talent and skills to community, family and friends. He designed and built the Grace Church stone Memorial Garden, installed the granite Grace Church sign and benches and St Mary’s baptismal font. He was also a member of the Westbrook Elks Club.

Jerry is remembered as a devoted husband, wonderful father, loving grandfather, generous provider and one always willing to lend a helping hand in service of God, family, community and church.

Attendees are encouraged to dress in hues of blue to reflect Jerry's love of the ocean. Calling hours are from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday Feb. 1, at Swan Funeral Home, Clinton. Funeral Mass is 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 2, at St. Mary’s Church, Clinton.

Town of Clinton Planning & Zoning Commission 54 East Main Street Clinton, CT 06413

Legal Notice of Public Hearing

Town of Clinton in the Town Hall Green Room

The Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following:

PZC-25-22: Special Exception for warehousing and self-storage facility pursuant to Sections 12.45 and 12.46 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 335 East Main Street (rear), Map 88, Block 69, Lot 124, Zone I2. Applicant: Joe Barnick, Shoreline Partners LLC.

PZC-26-4: Zone Change and Lot Line Revision, Town property located at 117 Nod Road, Map 14, Block 3, Lot 26, Zone I-P; 125 Nod Road, Map 14, Block, 3, Lot 27, Zone R30; 0 East Shore Drive, Map 14, Block 3, Lot 29, Zone R30. Applicant: Town of Clinton, CT.

At said Hearing, all persons will have the right to be heard. The application(s) and correspondence are available for public inspection on the Town’s website.

Anyone requiring special accommodation to participate in the public meeting should contact the Land Use Office at 860-669-6133. Michael Rossi, Chairman, Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission.

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of February 5 - February 11

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

A spark of excitement brightens your week, Aries. You may rediscover enthusiasm for a goal you set aside. Take one confident step and watch momentum gather.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

This week brings steady comfort and satisfying progress, Taurus. Something you’ve been nurturing starts to show real signs of growth. You’re building something meaningful.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Your mind is in full brilliance mode, Gemini. New insights, clever connections and energizing conversations fill your days. A fun invitation or unexpected message may lift your spirits.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Your emotional intuition is your superpower this week, Cancer. You may find a simple solution to a situation that once felt complex. Supportive people drift into your orbit.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, your confidence is glowing, and others notice. This week favors bold creativity and joyful self-expression. A moment of recognition or praise may remind you of your natural leadership.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Organization comes naturally, and your clarity is on point, Virgo. You’ll wrap up tasks with surprising ease. A shift in priorities may free up space for something you genuinely enjoy.

FEBRUARY 5

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Balance returns in a way that feels refreshing, Libra. Your relationships flow smoothly, and you’ll find harmony even in busy moments. An inspiring experience may uplift you.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Determination meets opportunity this week, Scorpio. You’re sharper, more focused and ready to move forward with confidence.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Optimism fuels everything you touch, Sagittarius. You may stumble upon a new interest, adventure or opportunity that fills you with excitement.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Your efforts align perfectly with your goals, Capricorn This week rewards patience and consistency. You may receive encouragement from someone who truly understands you.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Innovation thrives in your world right now, Aquarius. You’ll devise unique solutions, unexpected shortcuts or refreshing ideas with ease. Stay open to teamwork.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

A creative wave washes over you, Pisces. Inspiration feels effortless, and small moments carry extra meaning. A heartwarming interaction or sweet surprise brightens your week.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

Cristiano Ronaldo, Athlete (41)

FEBRUARY 6

Charlie Heaton, Actor (32)

FEBRUARY 7

Brooks Nader, Model (29)

FEBRUARY 8

Seth Green, Actor (52)

FEBRUARY 9

Tom Hiddleston, Actor (45)

FEBRUARY 10

Elizabeth Banks, Actress (52)

FEBRUARY 11

Khalid, Singer (28)

CLUES ACROSS

1. Native American group of N. California

5. Geological times (Brit. sp.)

10. Tool to remove

12. Rods

14. One who renews

16. They precede C 18. Chatter incessantly

19. __ King Cole, musician

20. Insect parts

22. One from Utah

23. The world of the dead

25. Singer Redding

26. NBA legend Nelson

27. Indicates wrongly

28. Unhappy

30. Anger

31. Dark brown

33. Some are in kitchens

35. Made a mistake

37. Damp

38. Type of fuel

40. Actor Damon

41. What thespians do

42. One’s mother

44. Disallow

45. Swiss river

48. A banana has one

50. Philippines lake and volcano are two

52. Relative biological effectiveness (abbr.)

53. Agave

55. Journalist Tarbell

56. One-time tech giant

57. Indicates upon

58. Intestinal bacteria

63. Loose sheaths around the spinal cord

65. It goes with nook

66. A fashion

67. Very eager to hear or see

CLUES DOWN

1. Witch

2. Utilize

3. Writing utensil

4. Where rockers go to work

5. Subsides

6. Consume

7. Greek mythological figures

8. California mountain town

9. Tin

10. Muse of lyric and love poetry

11. Animates anew

13. Humorous criticisms

15. Cool!

17. Worst

18. Wet dirt

21. Designed to be useful

23. Hebrew unit of liquid capacity

24. High schoolers’ test

27. Computer device

29. Indian territory __ and Diu

32. A place to sleep

34. AI tool

35. Pass or go by

36. Indicates a purchase

39. A digital tape recording of sound

40. More (Spanish)

43. Disfigured

44. White (Spanish)

46. Church building

47. Georgia rockers

49. Type of surgery

51. Much __ about nothing

54. Make by braiding

59. Local area network

60. Unit of work or energy

61. Member of indigenous people of Thailand

62. Liquefied natural gas

64. Distance to top

Word Search

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.

VALENTINE’S WORD SEARCH

ADMIRER ADORATION AFFECTION BOUQUET CANDLELIGHT CARD CHERISH CHOCOLATE CUPID DEVOTION EMBRACE FLIRT HEART KEEPSAKE LETTERS LOVE PASSION PROPOSAL ROMANCE ROSES SENTIMENT SOULMATE SWEETHEART VELVET

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for January 29, 2026: SHOOT

Word Search solution for January 29, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS TOWN OF OLD SAYBROOK

Pursuant to Section 12-111 of the Connecticut General Statutes, notice is hereby given the Old Saybrook Board of Assessment Appeals will meet on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at the Old Saybrook Town Hall. This session will be to hear appeals of the October 1, 2025, Grand List for Real Estate and Personal Property and 2024 Supplemental Motor Vehicles only. Applications for appeal are available in the Assessor’s office and must be submitted on or before February 20, 2026. Please note that Old Saybrook Town Hall is closed on February 16, 2026, in observance of President’s Day.

BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS TOWN OF OLD SAYBROOK

Barbara Dennison

Andrew Morosky

C. Marston (Marty) Ladd

DECISION LEGAL NOTICE – TOWN OF WESTBROOK – ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

The Zoning Board of Appeals met on 28 January 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in the Multi-Media Room of the Teresa Mulvey Municipal Center, 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT. The following actions were taken:

Appeal No. 2025-017 – Appeal of David Lenz, owner; Chuck Mandel, Thomas A. Stevens & Associates, Inc., agent; Michael Ferrara, M. Ferrara Development, applicant. Property located at 574 Seaside Avenue, further identified on Assessor’s Map 194, Parcel 3, HDR Zone, FPOD Zone, AE-12, LiMWA, VE-14. Variances requested from Zoning Regulations Section 2.C.2.2 of 10’ required, 9.5’ requested south, 8.0’ requested north, 9.0’ requested north-east; Section 2.C.2.3 of 35’ required, 34.8’ requested; Section 1.2 non-conforming lots in Area and Frontage. Variances requested to tear down existing home and construct a three-bedroom home. CAM Required GRANTED WITH STIPS

Bonnie Hall, Chairman Zoning Board of Appeals Dated at Westbrook, Connecticut This 28th day of January 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

A certified list of Thirty-Five (35) Republican party-endorsed candidates for the town of Westbrook for election as Members of the Town Committee at-Large is on file in my office at the Westbrook Town Clerk’s Office, 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, Connecticut and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee Members to be elected, under party rules, is Thirty-five (35).

A primary will be held on March 3, 2026 if Nine (9) candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of town committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with CGS 9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, not later than 4:00 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates, exceeds the number of town committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held). Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies, may be obtained from Megan Ruppenicker, Republican Registrar of Voters, Mulvey Municipal Center, 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, Connecticut.

Joan S. Angelini, CMC, MCTC Municipal Clerk of Westbrook

LEGAL NOTICE

A certified list of Twenty-Four (24) Democratic party-endorsed candidates for the Town of Westbrook, CT for election as Members of the Town Committee At-Large is on file in my office at the Westbrook Town Clerk’s Office, 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT, and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee Members to be elected under party rules is Thirty (30).

A Primary will be held on March 3, 2026, if seven (7) candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of town committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with CGS 9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, no later than 4:00 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates, exceeds the number of town committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held.) Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies, may be obtained from James Crawford, Democratic Registrar of Voters, Mulvey Municipal Center, 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, Connecticut.

Joan S. Angelini, CMC, MCTC Municipal Clerk of Westbrook

Precious Bubbles

Bubbles, a handsome 9-month-old gray tabby, was rescued on the property of a shoreline home with his two siblings. No mom was found and the kittens were scavenging for food until a caring person started to feed them, and a friend called Forgotten Felines to rescue the babies. Bubbles’ siblings were adopted together, and he is waiting anxiously for his turn. He is so sweet, playful, cuddly and snuggly, and would love a quiet home with another young cat. Can you give this precious kitten a loving home? Come meet Bubbles at our open house or apply to adopt him online at forgottenfelinesct.org.

Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines

Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary.

Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our 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@ forgottenfelinesct.org.

Letters Editor to the

Continued from page 4

Clinton Generosity on Display

I am writing to tell you about the generosity of the people of Clinton and the amazing work of two Clinton town employees. This is about the Toys and Tots event held in December. The toys, books, games, truck, stuffies, Barbie Dolls and more that were brought into the Town Hall was incredible. So much given by the Police Department, many of the businesses in town and the residents.

It takes a lot of work to organize... this is all done by Cheryl Church and Laura Dean-Frazier, mostly behind the scenes!

I worked it this year, and I was just amazed at how well it ran... my heart melted when one mother came in, saw a specific toy and said, “This is just what my son wants this year.”

I really am writing this to thank all the people who have donated and to commend Cheryl and Laura for being the best Social Service ladies there are! Clinton is so lucky to have them amongst us!!

Interested in Improving Your Public Speaking Skills?

The Valley Shore Toastmasters Club meets every first and third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Road. The aim is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where participants can improve their public speaking skills. For more information, email president-3940@toastmastersclubs.org or visit www.3940.toastmastersclubs.org.

rcsllc64@gmail.com

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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!

Westbrook Limits Valley Regional’s Offensive Production, Takes Steps Toward Postseason Play

The Westbrook girls basketball team secured a major victory Friday night over the Valley Regional Warriors. Both teams entered the game with the intent to secure a spot in the conference tournament, but Westbrook’s defense seemed to become the deal-breaker.

Westbrook defeated Valley Regional 4620 to earn their seventh victory of the season. The win improves Westbrook’s record to 7-6, while dropping Valley Regional’s season record to 4-10.

Valley Regional coach Patrick Sirois said it took time for the Warriors to adjust to Westbrook’s defensive scheme, but the second-half improvements were not enough to overcome the deficit.

“It was a big game for us to reach our goal of making the shoreline tournament, but we fell short. We struggled against the press and the 3-2 zone,” Sirois said. “We played better in the second half, moving

the ball and attacking the zone.”

Valley Regional’s path to the conference postseason now is to win on Wednesday against Old Lyme, and then upset North Branford, Cromwell, East Hampton, or Haddam Killingworth in the final four games. Those four teams are some of the best programs in the area.

For Westbrook, the pivotal game has etched the team one step closer to securing a postseason bid after falling into a tough three-game rut. The Knights lost three consecutive games to North Branford, Morgan, and Haddam Killingworth prior to their victory over Valley Regional.

Westbrook coach Sean Donadio said the win was a needed bounce-back for the program. He said it had refocused the team and provided a boost of energy this late into the season.

“We really focused on effort and energy, and the result on the defensive end was just terrific,” Donadio said. “They have one of the best scorers in the league, and we were able to hold her in check. In fact,

our defense was able to hold Valley to the lowest points that they’ve scored all season, and our offense really flows out of our defense. We were able to create a bunch of live-ball turnovers that we turned into points and easy baskets.

Sophomore Juliana Spencer has an explosive scorer for Valley Regional over the last two years. In fact, Spencer has already surpassed 500 career points and accomplished that feat by scoring 42 points in the team’s last outing versus Portland.

Westbrook held the 20-point-per-game scorer to just 13 points on the night.

“We were well aware that she dropped 40 plus, and the game plan was to know where she was at all times,” Donadio said.

“Our press was able to really take them out of their offensive flow, and when they were able to get into their half-court offense, we were just able to identify where she was and really make the game difficult for her.”

The Westbrook motto this season is to

get better each day, and the goal of the season has been to put themselves in a position to received good seeding in the Shoreline Conference Tournament and the state tournament.

The Knights’ defensive focus has been paired with a balanced offensive attack. Against Valley Regional, six players scored for the team. Sophomore Addison Lynch led the team with 12 points, seniors Natalia Fineza and Natalie Palumbo scored 10 and nine points, sophomore Lily Ferraro finished with eight, junior Anna Landino scored five points, and Alicia Peterson totaled two points.

“We’re fine-tuning all of our offensive sets, all of our defensive sets, and just getting ready for this stretch,” Donadio said.

Westbrook returns to the court on Friday, Feb. 6, to face Old Saybrook at home at 6 p.m., while Valley Regional will play East Hampton that day on the road at 5:45 p.m.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News
Photo Submitted
Alicia Peterson (13). Westbrook girls basketball vs. North Branford on Jan. 23 at North Branford High School.
Valley Regional girls' basketball team falls to Westbrook

Schedules

MORGAN

Boys’ Basketball

Friday, Feb. 6: at North Branford at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 10: vs. Cromwell at 7 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball

Friday, Feb. 6: vs. North Branford at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 10: at Cromwell at 6 p.m.

OLD SAYBROOK

Saturday, Feb. 6: vs.Westbrook at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 10: at Lyme-Old Lyme at 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 11: at East Hampton at 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 6: at Westbrook at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 7: vs. St. Bernard at 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 10: at Lyme-Old Lyme at 7 p.m. Boys’ Basketball

Friday, Feb. 6: at Old Saybrook at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 10: vs. Portland at 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 12: vs. Lyme-Old Lyme at 6 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 6: vs. Old Saybrook at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 10: at Portland at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 7: at Granby Memorial at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10: at Guilford at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 7: at Watertown at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11: vs. Westhill at 4:15 p.m. Wrestling Boys Ice Hockey

Friday, Feb. 6: at South Windsor at 7:50 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11: vs. Trumbull at 6 p.m.

Feb. 7: at Amity at 6:30 p.m.

Feb.

Applications Welcome for Fine Art Students

The Lyme Academy of Fine Art, 84 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, announces it is accepting online applications to its Core Drawing and Painting Program or Core Sculpture Program. Students of all levels are encouraged to apply. The academy is primarily seeking students who demonstrate a strong work ethic and commitment to the challenges of a rigorous program. The application deadlines are Sunday, March 1, for early decision and Monday, June 1, for regular decision. The notification dates are Wednesday, April 1, and Tuesday, June 30. Students may enter the Core Programs during the fall trimester. For more information, visit lymeacademy.edu.

Valley Regional Qualifies for State Tournament with Victory Over Westbrook

Feb. 5 to Feb. 11

Walking away with a victory is not always pretty. The game doesn’t always flow seamlessly, and players may not be hot and hitting every night, but the mark of a true team is its ability to win ugly. Valley Regional defined that Friday night against Westbrook.

The Valley Regional boys basketball

team defeated the struggling Westbrook Knights 64-50. The victory showcased the Warriors’ resiliency while dealing with a slow game flow, many stoppages, and foul trouble.

Valley Regional coach Kevin Woods said that while it was not the prettiest game they’ve played all season, they showed that they could go out and win right off a back-

See Valley page 21

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News Westbrook's Gregory Gerratana (35) tries to elude Valley Regional defenders during a Jan. 30 boys basketball game at Westbrook High School.

Valley Regional Qualifies for State Tournament with Victory Over Westbrook

to-back. The Warriors defeated Wheeler the night before, 58-50.

“I was proud of my guys’ resilience. We played through some foul trouble, and we found a way to win despite not having our best stuff,” Woods said. “It’s a mark of a good team when you don’t have your best stuff, and you find a way to get the W, that’s important.”

The Valley regional victory marks the team’s sixth victory in the last seven outings. The team has defeated Coginchaug, Hale Ray, Old Saybrook, Wheeler, and Westbrook in the span, while only falling to Haddam Killingworth, where they were unable to generate much offense due to HK’s zone defensive scheme.

Woods said the difference for the Warriors at this point of the season versus the beginning is that they are valuing team play and not settling for perimeter shots exclusively.

“It’s really just that we’re not settling for perimeter shooting despite having some guys that can really knock down perimeter shots. You know that time will be there and there will be moments for it, but we’re not settling for the three-ball,” Woods said. “Offensively, we’ve been much better, and when you’re better offensively, you shorten defensive possessions, you limit the pressure on your own defense, you’re able to set your offense up a little bit or defense up a little bit better. It’s worked off each other so our defense has been better, but in large part it’s due to the maturity of our offense.”

As the season progresses, Valley Regional is focused on continuing to develop and learn from their experiences so that by the time the postseason comes, they are playing their best basketball of the year. The victory over Westbrook marked their eighth win of the season, which qualifies the team for the postseason.

Now, that a playoff berth is imminent the rest of season’s goals are to finished .500 or better, earn double-digit wins, and earn a home playoff game in the conference and state tournaments.

They are also hoping to achieve more of their team goals now that they have “I’m always looking to get better. I’m

never going to be satisfied with where we’re at,” Woods said. “We’ve surely grown a lot. We’ve developed over the course of time. I’m proud of what we’ve done, but certainly expect more going forward. We’re not going to settle with where we’re at.”

Despite Westbrook’s 0-13 record, Woods also spoke highly of the team and how they compete. He said they are on a rise and will be much better next season once they get experience under their belt.

“I’ve noticed them from the beginning of the year to now, and they’re young. They’re definitely developing, and I think they’re moving in the right direction,” he said. “I’m sure they’re proud of the performance and outcome of the game, despite not winning. They’ll continue to get better, and you’ll see them in the win column pretty soon. Next year, I expect huge changes in their win production.”

The praises between coaches was mutal as Westbrook coach Garrett Hickey called Valley Regional one of the top five teams in the conference. Hickey said with the talent that’s on the Valley Regional, the game plan was to go into the game, play hard and physical, rebound, and play tough defense.

“It was probably our best game of the season in terms of how well we played as a collective unit,” Hickey said.

From the beginning, Westbrook knew that it would be a long year. With only one senior on the roster, the year quickly became about establishing the culture, development, and program building.

The team has harped on controlling their controllables and playing with effort to dive on loose balls, stay engaged defensively, and take charges.

“We’ve done a really good job, at least like specifically the last two weeks, since our game versus Morgan,” Hickey said. “The guys are buying into it a little bit more, and it’s translating into practice. They’re starting to find their identity.”

With seven games to go, Westbrook will hope to put some games into the win column this season. Westbrook will be on the road Friday, Feb. 6, against Old Saybrook at 6 p.m., while Valley Regional will face East Hampton at home the same day at 7 p.m.

Madison Hoop Dreams to Hold Camp Over February Break

Madison Hoop Dreams has arranged for the use of the Robert H. Brown School, located at 890 Durham Road in Madison, for their co-ed February vacation camps on Feb. 16-17.

The goal of the organization is to help each camper improve their basketball skills and deepen their enjoyment of the game. Madison Hoops Dreams also recognizes the importance of providing parents with a structured, well•supervised, and fun environment that promotes good sportsmanship and positive social interaction. The camp is open to players in grades 3–8, and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Space is limited to 60 campers, and the camp typically draws participants from more than 15 towns in the surrounding area.

Each day begins with an hour of skill development, followed by competitive basketball games for the remainder of the day. During games, coaches provide instruction to help each player improve their understanding of the game. This is an excellent opportunity for all players to sharpen their skills.

Early registration is encouraged. The cost is $60 per day for each six•hour

camp. To encourage teammates to attend together, the organization offers the following team discounts: Three to four teammates pay $55 per player per day, or five or more teammates pay $50 per player per day.

They are also offering a family discount for households attending a total of four days of camp. Two siblings attending two days pay $55 per player per day. Three or more siblings attending two days pay $50 per player per day.

To register, parents can text coach Bill Barker at (203) 494•6905 with the names of the teammates attending. Madison Hoop Dreams will place teammates on the same team whenever possible, though trades may be needed to balance competition.

Please select whichever discount—team or family—provides the greatest benefit. Financial assistance is available upon request. For more information and to register, visit www.madisonhoopdreams.com. Any additional questions or need financial assistance, please call or text coach Barker or email at wab6933@gmail. com.Hoop Dreams.

Nominate your favorites once per day per category!

Nominations are open through February 22 (at 11:59 pm)

Top 5 voting will be open April 6 - 26 (at 11:59 pm)

Check out our 15 brand-new categories! Brought to you by

Winners will be announced at an invitation-only event in July and in On the Shoreline, publishing in the Harbor News on Thursday, August 13

Celebrating the Creative Spirit of LAA Artists An Exhibition in Five Acts:

The Lyme Art Association (LAA) welcomes the public to its sky-lit galleries this spring for , a show displaying the diversity of artistic styles of its talented membership.

Each juried show in looks at the world through a different lens: , , , , and celebrates the ever-changing landscapes that surround people. Artists’ pieces express humanity’s connection to place, and explore how land shapes identity, memory, and belonging.

The animal world has long inspired creativity, symbolism, and storytelling. In , artists explore people’s relationship with animals as companions, muses, and metaphors by creating artwork that captures the beauty, spirit, and complexity of the animals that share the world inhabited by humans.

The still life tradition has endured for centuries, offering artists a way to find meaning in the quiet arrangement and beauty of everyday objects. In , artists reimagine this timeless genre through classical interpretation, contemporary experimentation, or symbolic storytelling.

Abstraction opens a space for artists to move beyond representation by exploring form, color, line, and gesture as expressions in themselves. From pure non-objectivity to works that balance between the recognizable and the abstract, artworks in push boundaries, distill ideas, and experiment with visual language while celebrating the power of art to evoke emotion, energy, and imagination.

In , artists explore portraiture and figurative work in all its forms from realistic depictions to expressive interpretations. This exhibition examines how artists—through emotion, gesture, and presence—capture humanity, identity, and the stories written on the body and face.

is on view from Friday, Feb. 27, through Friday, April 10. The opening reception takes place Sunday, March 1, from 2 to 4 p.m.

About the Lyme Art Association

Founded in 1914 by the American Impressionists, the Lyme Art Association continues the tradition of exhibiting and selling representational artwork as well as

offering art instruction and public programs for the community. The LAA is located at 90 Lyme Street in Old Lyme, in an iconic 1921 building designed by renowned architect Charles Adams Platt and listed on the National Register of His-

toric Places. Admission is free. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, visit www.lymeartassociation.org or call 860-434-7802.

Press Release from the Lyme Art Association
Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association , pastel, by Elaine Juska Joseph Plowman
Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association
Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association , bronze, by Josie Campbell Dellenbaugh Summer Dog , oil and cold wax, by Ed Arribas Autumn Reflections
Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association
Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association , oil, by Jennifer Rand The Great Pumpkin , acrylic, by Andy M. Sachs Future Teachers

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

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

Mental Health Break

: 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Branford Green. Features the East Shore Health District (ESHD) mobile public health clinic van which will be on-site and ESHD staff who will be available to discuss physical and mental well-being, self-care strategies, and more. Includes free hot cocoa, resources, and community referrals. For info, call ESHD at 203-481-4233 or visit esdhd.org.

Art with Kristin: Van Gogh Watercolors

: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by local artist and educator Kristin Cafferty. For children ages 5 to 8. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Pizza: A Love Story Screening and Exhibit Tour

Pronounced Ah-Beetz

Pizza: A Love Story

:

5:30 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Includes a tour of the exhibit with co-curator Jason Bischoff-Wurstle, followed by a 6 p.m. screening of and a Q&A with filmmaker Gorman Bechard and co-producers Dean Falcone and Colin M. Caplan. Free with museum admission. For info or to register, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Lab

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For ages 6 to 12. Participants will learn about states of matter and will complete a slime lab. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit nbranfordlibraries.org.

National Theatre Live in HD Encore:

: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 180 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley

Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel

: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.

Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley

Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel

: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley

Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel

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

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.

Rethinking Conservation “Success”: Mitigating the Climate Crisis While Benefiting Biodiversity and People

: 7 p.m. Webinar. Presented by Emily Feng, a graduate student in ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Connecticut. 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.

FRIDAY,

FEB. 6

Shoreline Village Walking Group

: 1 to 2 p.m. Foote Memorial Park, 19 Melrose Ave., Branford. Meet at the parking lot. Features a walk on a flat, paved trail. Dress according to the weather and wear good sturdy shoes. Inclement weather cancels. Sponsored by Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to register, contact SVCT at 203-747-5939 or sylvia@shorelinevillagect.org, or visit shorelinevillagect.org.

First Friday Stroll

: 5 to 8 p.m. Main Street, Chester. Hosted by the merchants of Chester. Features a stroll on Main Street that showcases new art exhibitions at galleries, seasonal menus at restaurants, and shopping specials. Includes traditional and original Irish, Scottish and American fiddle tunes by Paddy Whack, and anecdotal tales about the paintings at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St. For info, visit nilssonstudio.com.

Winter Jams for Camp Fundraiser Concert

: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, 4 Liberty St. Doors open at 5 p.m. Features performances by Someone You Can XRay, Shorebreak, and The Gleeful Conspiracy. Suggested donation: $10 individual, $20 family. Proceeds benefit the Chester Park & Rec summer camp funds. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct.

Winter Concert by Guilford High School (GHS) Music Department

: 7 p.m. Guilford High School Performing Arts Center, 605 New England Rd. Features the GHS

Calendar for the Week of February 5, 2026

music department including voices, wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, symphony orchestra, and the A.W. Cox Howlers. Includes a silent auction of art-related items. No tickets needed; goodwill donations appreciated. Proceeds benefit the Guilford Meals on Wheels. For info, call Christi Burton at 203-453-8359.

Concert by Laurel Canyon Band (Tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young)

: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Take Your Child to the Library Day

: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Includes a bunny scavenger hunt (no registration required) and story time with craft featuring Snow by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace and Bunny Slopes by Claudia Rueda (10:30 to 11:30 a.m., registration required). For info or to register, call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Take Your Child to the Library Day

: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features all-day drop-in crafts and a performance by Mystic Paper Beasts Theater at 2 p.m. No registration required. For info, call 203-4888702 or visit wwml.org.

Take Your Child to the Library Day

: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a Pokémon party, crafts, snacks, games, and a terrarium gym project. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free and open to all. No registration. While supplies last. For info, call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

River Tales

SATURDAY, FEB. 7 Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring

: Two sessions: 11 a.m. to noon and 1 to 2 p.m. Connecticut River Museum (CRM), 67 Main St., Essex. For children ages 4 and up and their caregivers. Features a story, a craft activity, and more. Book: by Kenard Pak. Tickets: $3 per learner, free for members. Museum admission is not included with the ticket purchase. For info or reservations (required), call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Madison Chocolate Festival at the Kindness Café

: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Includes a café with lunch and chocolate desserts, a bake sale, cookie walk, music, silent auction, gift basket raffle, and kindness open-mic. Proceeds benefit the church’s weekly community breakfast. Part of Madison Kindness Week. For info, email kevinhkane@yahoo.com.(

See page 25

Slime
Hamlet

Two Connecticut Theaters Start 2026 With New Space, New Leadership; Marks 10th Year Anastasia

Daily Routines

: TheaterWorks Hartford’s next offering, , explores how our daily routines can lead to friendships and the sharing of secrets. The show—which is billed as “funning, surprising, and moving”—is set in a diner in upstate New York. The show runs Wednesday, Feb. 12, through Sunday, March 15. Artistic Director Rob Ruggiero directs the three-person cast. Tickets are available at TWHartford.org

Aisle ON THE

The Counter director, and chair of the University of Cincinnati’s Musical Theatre program.

Braving the Cold

: State-elected officials, as well as Ivoryton Playhouse staff and supporters, braved the cold on Thursday, Jan. 15, for an official ground-breaking ceremony for the new Sally & George Mayer Rehearsal Studio. The building will also serve as storage. The event marked the kick-off of a $1.5 million capital campaign to support the facility and to fund upgrades to the historic theater building.

New Leadership

: As Legacy Theatre in Branford begins its sixth year, it will do so under new artistic leadership. Keely Baisden Knudsen, co-founder and executive artistic director of the theater, is stepping down. Eric Santagata has been named the new artistic director. Santagata has an impressive resume as an actor,

Continued from page 24

: Peter Jacobson will star as Willie Loman in Hartford Stage’s production of the Arthur Miller classic, . Jacobson, who has extensive stage credits, is best known for his role as Dr. Christopher Taub on the TV series . The show runs Friday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 29. is considered a classic of American theater. Tickets are available at HartfordStage.org.

Death of a Salesman House

Death of a Salesman

News from the Terris

: Goodspeed has announced that its Terris Theatre in Chester will be dark for 2026. The theater said that despite successful runs of two new musicals in 2025, the management team needs to consider how the theater will operate given the new realities of costs and audience preferences. The Terris specializes in minimally staged productions of

Valentine Bouquets for Teens and Adults with Special Needs Parent/Child Together: Valentine's Day Love Box Workshop

: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For ages 16 and older. Participants will create a Valentine bouquet using provided supplies. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

: Noon to 2 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Cost: $27 for members, $30 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $25 is payable with the tuition. Tuition and material fee are per person. Reduced tuition rates on youth classes requires family level membership. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-4535947.

Curator Tour

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

: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Presented by Jessica Durdock Moreno, director of artistic planning at Long Wharf Theatre. The tour highlights the new exhibition, . For info, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

9 to 5: The Story of a Movement

5: The Story of a Movement

: 2 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Features the screening of followed by discussion with Ellen Cassedy, co-founder of the 9 to 5 movement. Presented with the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New

9 to

Valentine Card Party for Kids

About Time

new musicals. Recently, the revue , which debuted at the Terris last spring, announced it will open off-Broadway on Friday, Feb. 27. It also had a performance at 54 Below.

Celebrating an Anniversary

: Hart-

Anastasia

ford Stage is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the world premiere of the musical with a fundraising event featuring Christy Altomare, who originated the title role, and director Darko Tresnjak (former artistic director of the theater). Additional special guests will be announced. The show began its journey at Hartford Stage, then had a successful run on Broadway, and later, productions around the world. The event on Tuesday, March 10, features performances from the show and behind-the-scenes stories. A champagne-and-dessert reception follows the event. Tickets are available at HartfordStage.org.

Sharon Playhouse

from Away

Prestigious Award

out more at SharonPlayhouse.org. : Guildford’s own, Will Aronson and Hue Park, who won Tonys for their musical , have received the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award. The award is given to “promising composers of musical theatre who have made a significant contribution to American music culture.” Prior recipients include Lin-Manuel Miranda, Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul.

NYC Notes

Swingtime Canteen 42nd Street Come

: A sign that spring will come is the 2026 season announcement from Sharon Playhouse. The season opens with from June 19 to July 5, followed by from July 25 to Aug. 9, and ending with from Sept. 11 to Sept. 27. In addition, there are Youth Stage presentations and one-night events. You can find

Haven. Free with museum admission. For info or to register, contact 203-562-4183, ext. 120 or matockarshewsky@newhavenmuseum.org, or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

: 2:30 to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Cost: $20.25 for members, $22.50 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $15 is payable with the tuition. Reduced tuition rates on youth classes requires family level membership. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-453-5947.

A Tribute to U2

: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by The Joshua Tree. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a buffet dinner. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will be seated at tables with other guests. For info or reservations, call 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events.

The Beatitudes as Interpreted by St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Pier Giorgio Frassati

: 7 p.m. Saint Catherine Center, Monastery of Our Lady of Grace, 11 Race Hill Rd., North Guilford. Part of the "Evening with a Friar" series. Presented by Fr. John Mark Solitario. Hosted by the Aquinas Guild. To enroll in the guild, visit dominicannuns.org/aquinas-guild. For info or to register for the event, visit dominicannuns.org/posts.

Maybe Happy Ending Kitchen Chess Just in Time

Hell’s

: Alicia Keys’ musical, , will close on Feb. 22. The show opened in 2024; when it closes, it will have played nearly 800 performances. The revival of has extended its run to June 3, which may improve its chances for Tony Award victories as more voters will have a chance to see the show. Multiple Tony nominee Jeremy Jordan will take over for Tony winner Jonathan Groff as Bobby Darin in

Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.

To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Sweet Saturday Nights: Brian May

: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Tickets: $10. Service fees apply. Refreshments are available for purchase. For info or tickets, visit musicnowfoundation.org/events.

Concert by Bobby Rush

: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

SUNDAY, FEB. 8

Inaugural Soup-er Bowl Chili

: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Guilford Art Center (GAC), 411 Church St. Pickup of preordered food and bowls only. The event is an extension of GAC's Soup for Good event and features a choice of a handmade bowl made by GAC pottery instructors and students, a serving of homemade chili (meat or vegetarian), a bag of Fritos for topping, and a can of beer or seltzer. Tickets: $40. Proceeds benefit GAC arts education and outreach programs and the Guilford Food Bank. For info, visit guilfordartcenter.org.

See page 27

Playing Willie Loman

Guilford Art Center Opens Summer Youth Program Registration Early

Guilford Art Center (GAC) has opened registration for its summer youth program early this year to allow families more time to plan for their children this summer.

Designed for ages 5 to 12, GAC’s art camp program offers art classes in painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics, mixed media, sewing, and more. All classes are taught by experienced, professional teaching artists in a supportive and inspiring environment.

The program will run in weekly half-day or full-day sessions from Monday, June 22, through Friday, Aug. 21.

“We know families are juggling a lot when it comes to summer planning,” said GAC Executive Director Maureen Belden. “By opening summer youth program registration earlier this year, we wanted to give parents more time to review our offerings, consider what’s the best fit for their child, and feel confident getting their summer camp plans in place—rather than waiting until later in the spring. With a wide range of art experiences and many new instructors this year, there’s something to spark every child’s creativity.”

To make the program more accessible for working parents and caregivers, Guilford Art Center offers Bridge Care—supervised care between the morning and after session, creating a more flexible full-day option. Whether your child is enrolled in a morning or afternoon camp, Bridge Care ensures they’re cared for in a safe, welcoming space with creative materials and gentle guidance.

Financial aid is available and open to everyone.

“We never want cost to be a barrier,” says Belden. “Thanks to generous supporters and community partners, we’re able to offer

tuition assistance for families who need it. It’s part of our mission to make the arts truly accessible to all.”

The financial aid application process is simple and confidential, and families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited. Class registration remains open through summer.

For more information or to enroll or apply for financial aid, call 203-453-5947 or visit www.guilfordartcenter.org.

Program Highlights

Weekly camps from June 22 trough Aug. 21

Options in drawing, ceramics,

comics, metals, sewing, painting, stained glass, mixed media, beading, and more

Sessions grouped by age for appropriate skill-building

Small class sizes for personal attention

About Guilford Art Center

Guilford Art Center is a nonprofit organization that serves the shoreline community and beyond with classes, exhibitions, and events that foster a love and understanding of the visual arts. Through its programs, GAC nurtures individual creativity and promotes the cultural vitality of the region.

Press Release from the Guilford Art Center
Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center
Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center
Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center
Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center

Working 9 to 5: New Haven Museum Recalls a Movement

Fifty years ago, Ellen Cassedy co-founded and led the 9 to 5 movement of working women that began in Boston. On Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m., Cassedy will be at the New Haven Museum (NHM) for a screening of the documentary film, by the Academy Award-winning team Julia Reichert and Steven Bognar, in which she appears. Attendance is free with paid museum admission.

9to5: The Story of a Movement

Working 9 to 5: A Women’s Movement, A Labor Union, and the Iconic Movie

Cassedy is the author of (foreword by Jane Fonda) and several other books. The film tells the story of how women workers began in a circle talking about their jobs and went on to build a nationwide movement that won rights and respect for millions of women workers—and inspired a hit movie and an enduring song along the way. After the film, audience members will be invited to share their thoughts and questions about women and work.

Presented in partnership with the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven (JHSGNH), the screening is part of the 2026 Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Film Series which was designed to examine the issues faced by women as clerical work-

ers, factory workers, and teachers. The series previews the fourth annual Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Program at NHM on Sunday, March 1, which will focus on Jewish women involved in organizing unions for social workers, New Haven Public School teachers, and Yale University clerical and technical workers in the 20th century.

Cassedy became interested in women’s rights as an office worker in the early 1970s.

“Office workers were influenced by the civil rights and women’s movements and eager to win our rights,” she says. “We won a lot, but there’s a long way to go. Today’s working people struggle to make ends meet and care for their families.”

She adds that she hopes to inspire others to speak up.

For more information or to register for the event, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

About the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven

The Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven began in the attic and basement of Harvey N. Ladin’s Central Avenue home. After years of collecting pictures and memorabilia about Jewish life in New Haven, Ladin helped to organize and found the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven in 1976. He became its first president. Since its origin, the society has been collecting and cataloging the Greater New

Haven Jewish community’s eventful past, publicizing its history, and preserving its heritage for future generations. The JHSGNH is located in the Ethnic Heritage Center, on the campus of Southern Connecticut State University, 270 Fitch Street, New Haven. For more information, call 203-392-6125 or visit jewishhistorynh.org.

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 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org or Facebook.com/ NewHavenMuseum.

Continued from page 25

: 2 to 3 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. All supplies provided. Limited spots. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

Christianity, Judaism, and Islam

: 2 to 4 p.m. Mercy by the Sea Retreat and Conference Center, 167 Neck Rd., Madison. First in a three-part series called "To Love Your Neighbor, Know Your Neighbor,” featuring panel discussions surrounding nine faith traditions. Co-hosted by Mercy by the Sea and the Connecticut Council for Interreligious Understanding (CCIU). Free admission. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-0401, ext. 114, or visit mercybythesea.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 9

Pottery Painting with Fired Up!

: 6 to 8 p.m. Fired Up

Studio, 1060 Main St., Branford. Cost: $39. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 10

Little Makers: Groundhog Day Craft

: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For ages 2 to 6. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit nbranfordlibraries.org.

Safe at Home

: 2:30 to 4 p.m. Old Saybrook Middle School, 60 Sheffield St. Presented by Heather McNeil and Jessica Wood of the OSYFS. For grades 4 through 6. Students receive safety training that will help them be prepared to stay at home alone, with parent permission/knowledge. Only a student’s parents can make the decision that their youth is ready to stay at home alone

based on age, maturity, skills, experience, and confidence level. Cost: $10. For info or to register, contact 860510-5042 or heather.mcneil@oldsaybrookct.gov.

Pruning Woody Plants in the Landscape:

Noon to 2 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Hosted by Leete’s Island Garden Club. Felicia Millett, licensed arborist and CAES plant diagnostician, presents on pruning objectives, techniques, tools, and timing. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 203-453-0780 or email kayclaiborn@comcast.net.

Make a Heart-Felt Gift with Mrs. Fig

: 3 to 4 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For elementary-age students. Participants will craft a Valentine-themed gift. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Press Release from the New Haven Museum
Photo by Brad Fowler
Ellen Cassedy
Photo by Steve Cagan
Women workers demonstrate for their rights.
Photo courtesy of Karen Nussbaum
Karen Nussbaum , co-founder of 9to5, marches for equal pay for women.
Tote Bag Decorating Workshop

Continued from page 27

: 3:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For ages 12 to 18. Participants plan programs, displays, and collections. Service credit available. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Art with Kristin: Flamingo Canvas

: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by local artist and educator Kristin Cafferty. For children ages 8 to 12. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Chocolate Layer Cake with Frosting

: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Cost: $35 plus a $20 materials fee to cover all supplies (exact change requested). Bring two dish towels, a container to bring home your cake, and an (optional) apron. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

What a Glorious Crash They Made

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features Revolutionary-era songs and hymns performed by tenor and harpsichordist Richard Franklin Donohue. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free and open to all. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Pajama Story Time

: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features bedtime stories by Jan Brett read by Mrs. Fig, with puppets and sound effects. Family-friendly. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Pickin’ Party

: 6 to 8 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door. For info, call 860-434-1961 or visit danstevens.net or musicnowfoundation.org/events.

From Liberty to Legacy: Exploring American Ideals in and

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11

THURSDAY, FEB. 12

Live Theater: Junior Chefs: Indoor S’mores

The Day the Crayons Quit

: 10:30 to

11 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Presented by Grove School Children's Theater Troupe. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

: 2 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For ages 5 to 12. Children ages 5 to 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants will learn simple steps to make s’mores without a campfire. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Connecticut and the Road to Victory at Yorktown

: 3 to

4 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Killingworth resident Kelvin Cole presents a talk and slideshow on Connecticut’s role in the Revolutionary War. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Acoustic Artists Storyteller Series: Barbara Harvey

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features stories and songs paired with pictures and visuals. For participants of all ages. For info or to register, visit actonlibrary.org/events.

Madison Kindness Week: Card Angels Pop-up Meeting

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by the Card Angels, a group of volunteers who make homemade cards with happy messages to send to those in a rehabilitation facility or cancer treatment center. All materials provided. No registration required. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Fuel Your Body: Master Meal Planning for Inflammation Relief

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $30. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Desserts that Dazzle

6:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St., Guilford. Features video clips and discussion with performer and storyteller Michael Langlois on how the two musicals portray the nation’s founding from different perspectives. Free. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Peaceful Pause

: 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Cost: $44. Bring a yoga mat, towel, blanket, and anything needed for a comfortable breathwork experience. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Adult and Pediatric First Aid Awareness Training 1776 Hamilton:

:

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. No certification is available with this class. Cost: $25. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Features a hands-on class to make a three-layer almond tart and a French chocolate dessert. All ingredients and equipment provided. Cost: $30 plus a $30 materials fee to cover all supplies (exact change requested). No experience needed. Participants take home what they make. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

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.

Concert by The Young Dubliners

: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Hollywood Gems: Tips for Managing Loneliness

The Three Musketeers

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

: 1 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Presented by Wendy Hurwitz. Covers strategies for managing isolation and loneliness followed by a discussion with audience questions. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 860-5266039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

2026 Internship and Career Fair

: 1 to 4 p.m. 101 College St., New Haven. Free admission. Features networking opportunities with more than 30 organizations. Hosted by the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. For info, visit gnhcc.com/events.

Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic with Lindsey Stewart

: 2 p.m. Online event. Book:

The Conjuring of America: Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic

. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.

Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic with Lindsey Stewart

: 2 p.m. Online event. Book:

The Conjuring of America: Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic

. Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

Gracias a la Vida Concert

Gracias a la Vida: Spanish and Latin Songs of Life and Romance.

: 5:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a concert by the Entwyned Early Music group, presenting Free and open to the public. Space is limited; registration is suggested. For info or to register, visit youressexlibrary.org or call the library at 860-767-1560.

Growing Annuals From Seeds

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Covers plant selections, materials needed, and scheduling, including which annuals are suitable to start indoors. Hosted by the Essex Library in collaboration with the Essex Garden Club. For info or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Black Inventors Who Made the Stuff Around Us

: 6 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Features a presentation by Ainissa Ramirez on Black inventors who contributed to everyday innovations, including New Haven’s Sarah Boone. Preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m. Free with regular museum admission. Part of the NH250 series. For info or to register, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

YA Library Advisory Board Planning Meeting

Black Inventors Who Made the Stuff Around Us

In an enlightening presentation about the contributions of Black innovators who helped shape history, Ainissa Ramirez will share inventions that were created by Black inventors—from the light bulb to the mailbox to the ice cream scoop—during her presentation, “Black Inventors Who Made the Stuff Around Us.”

The event, which takes place at the New Haven Museum at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, is part of the NH250 series to complement America’s semiquincentennial celebration. The presentation is free with regular museum admission and will be preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m. From Jim West’s microphone to mathematician Gladys West’s pioneering work in creating GPS, Ramirez will feature the life and work of Black innovators who made things we use every day. She will also share the work and life of New Haven’s own Sarah Boone (1832-1904), who was awarded one of the first U.S. patents given to an African American woman for her improvements to the ironing board. Her invention made it possible to iron corsets and other tight-fitting clothing that were in fashion at the time. Boone worked as a

dressmaker and lived at 30 Winter Street in New Haven and is buried in Evergreen Cemetery.

Ainissa Ramirez is a scientist and writer from New Haven interested in uncovering the little-known innovators who contributed to the everyday lives of people. She received her bachelor’s degree from Brown University and her doctorate from Stanford, both in materials science and engineering. She began her career as a scientist at Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey, and later joined the faculty at Yale University. She wrote the awardwinning book, , as well as the children’s book,

The Alchemy of Us Spark: Jim West’s Electrifying Adventures in Creating the Microphone

This event is part of NH250, an ongoing series of programming developed by New Haven Museum to complement “America 250.” Culminating with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the series will highlight inclusive, local, and lesser-known stories, connecting past and present.

Continued from page 28

Drive-In Movie Night

: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Children decorate cardboard cars and watch a short film. Smartfood popcorn provided. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Guilford Poets Guild: Patricia Cleary Miller

Starting a Swan Dive Can You Smell the Rain? Warmer Than Yesterday.

: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features an open mic followed by a reading from Patricia Cleary Miller, author of , , and Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Bird Migration in Offshore Wind Energy Areas: Informing Collision Risk and Mitigation

: 7 p.m. Webinar. Presented by Shannon Curley, a migration ecologist studying offshore bird movements using weather surveillance radar to help inform wind energy development. 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.

:

7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 13

:

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saybrook Point Resort and Marina, 2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. Features a talk by Linda Albright of Albright AI Agency on "AI Without the Hype: How Women Business Owners Are Using AI to Grow Their Companies and Free Up Time.” Hosted by the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for nonmembers For info or to register, visit oldsaybrookchamber.com/events.

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.

Opening Reception for BACA Winter ’26 Art Show

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Features new work by 50 artists in painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media, photography, sculpture, ceramics, turned wood, textiles, and jewelry. Light fare and refreshments will be available. Free. For info, visit bacagallery.org.

Valentine Portraits: BYOB Paint and Sip

: 6 to 8 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For participants ages 21 and up. BYOB. No partner needed. No art skills required. Cost: $27 for members, $30 for nonmembers. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-453-5947.

Creative Crawl

: 6 to 9 p.m. RiverFire Glass Studio at SoMA, 500 Main St., Deep River. Features three mini workshops for participants to create winter watercolors landscape with Shell & Bee, make a glass fusion dish with RiverFire Glass, and learn from an introduction to social dance with River Valley Dance Project. Cost: $72. Service fees apply. Child care available through Artsistic Babysitter. For info or to register, call 860-864-5004 or visit riverfireglass.com.

Author Event: James Ponti

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

Open Mic with Terri Lachance

: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Café, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Minimum three songs for each performer, more if time allows. House piano and sound system available. Admission: $5 donation at the door. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.

Yale Concert Band Winter Concert

: 7:30 to 10 p.m. Woolsey Hall, 500 College St., New Haven. Features a performance with Thomas C. Duffy, music director. Free admission. For info, call 203-432-4111 or visit bands.yalecollege.yale.edu.

Concert by Mullett Europa

: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

About Ainissa Ramirez
About NH250
Photo by Duncan Davidson
Ainissa Ramirez
Concert by Stephane Wrembel
Women in Business Luncheon
SoMA

SATURDAY, FEB. 14

37th Annual Eagle Watch on the Connecticut River

: 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. Features a 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. Led by Jerry Connolly of The Audubon Shop. Cost: $33, includes soup and sandwich lunch at Otter Cove Restaurant, Old Saybrook. Binoculars recommended and available to rent. Pre-payment required. For info or to register (required), call 203-2459056 or visit theaudubonshop.com/events.

: 10 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: by Nita Prose. Snacks will be provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

: 10

a.m. to 1 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Participants will use 100% cotton loop materials from a New England family-owned mill and a sturdy metal peg loom to create a coordinating pair of potholders. Printed weaving charts and cotton weaving loops are included in materials fee. Bring embroidery scissors. Metal peg loom and hooks will be available in class for $20 purchase. Cost: $37.80 for members, $42 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $12 is payable with the tuition. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-453-5947.

: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For ages 5 to 12. Participants will cut, tie, and stuff a heart-shaped pillow—no sewing required. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children up to age 8 and their families. Participants make pine cone and Victorian-style bird-themed Valentines. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Witness the Wild: Where Eagles Fly

Press Release from The Audubon Shop

Winter’s cold brings dozens of bald eagles down the Connecticut River from Canada in search of ice-free fishing.

Last year, over 50 eagles wintered on the lower Connecticut River. Its 6- to 8-foot wingspan makes the bald eagle the largest predator in North America. The comeback of the bald eagle is an ecological success story.

On Saturdays, Feb. 14 and Feb. 21, The Audubon Shop in Madison will present its 37th annual eagle watches on the Connecticut River. Leader Jerry Connolly of

The Audubon Shop will help participants spot eagles from a variety of locations on this land-based trip along the shore of the river and will discuss the bird’s natural history. A variety of wintering birds will be seen. Binoculars are recommended and available to rent.

Tickets cost $33, which includes a soup and sandwich lunch at Otter Cove Restaurant in Old Saybrook.

Preregistration and prepayment are required. To register, call 203-245-9056.

For more information, visit the audubonshop.com/events.

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 210 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

: 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Tea and light refreshments served. Free and open to all. Registration suggested. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Tickets: $45. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 14 AND SUNDAY, FEB. 14

: 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. Continues Wednesday, Feb. 21, and Thursday, Feb. 22. For info, call 203-457-0770 or visit dudleyfarm.com.

SUNDAY, FEB. 15

: 1 to 3 p.m. Main Street, Chester. Tractors roll at 1:30 p.m. Includes music and chili. Proceeds benefit the Chester Hose Company. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct.

Concert by The Dave Matthews Band

:

7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

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

Photo by Matthew Male
Photo by Matthew Male
Saturday Sleuths Book Club
Sweetheart Twill Weaves Workshop
Kids Create: No-Sew Heart Pillow
Bird Valentines
Guest
Saturday Cinema
Concert by Roomful of Blues
Maple Sugaring Time
Tractor Parade
Cinderella

Real Estate Transactions

ESSEX

: Doris J

Shelton T and Christian B. Shelton to Eric and Carol A. Zima, $1,200,000 on Jan. 13

: Business

Pk Hldg Co LLC to Sz&i LLC, $2,400,000 on Jan. 16

: Bc Inv

Propertys LLC to Adam and Rebecca Gerber, $300,000 on Jan. 14

: Jason Quido and Thomas Moore to Roberto F. Barrera and Andrea C. Fernandez, $700,000 on Jan. 16

93 Montoya Drive Unit

: Placeay Action Prop LLC to Grzegorz Andrzejczyk, $260,000 on Jan. 12 : Jeffrey Henry and Erica Rodriguez to Emily Leaghty, $1,225,000 on Jan. 14

BRANFORD CHESTER

View Terrace

35 Maple Street

: David Placeatt to Wayne F. Dailey and Leslie D. Sandin, $780,000 on Jan. 15

9 Pratt Street

: Blaine and

Christopher Heck to Joann and Kevin F. Soja, $1,232,000 on Jan. 13

57 Walnut Street

: True Home Offer

LLC to Executive Ests Rlty LLC, $415,000 on Jan. 16

GUILFORD

666 Boston Post Road Unit 4

Ronald A. and Ernestine R. Cwik to Durham Partners LLC, $311,500 on Jan. 12

15 Briarwood

: Frank L. and Rosita O. Tomaszewski to Krystina and Brandon Gomez, $850,000 on Jan. 13

: Estate of Michael T. Korwek and Kevin J. Korwek to Durham Road LLC, $240,000 on Jan. 13

: Estate of

: John D.

and Tonya M. Mastrobattisto to Christopher and Blaine Heck, $1,022,500 on Jan. 13

: Kevin P. Becker to Nicole and Michael P. Lee, $1,010,000 on Jan. 15

: Ronald G. Harpell to Alan and Carolyn Rilla, $575,000 on Jan. 12

: Jeremy F. Bell to 12 Forest Hills LLC, $90,000 on Jan. 12

NORTH BRANFORD

: Victor and Allison Desimone to David J. Munro, $550,000 on Jan. 13

: Alessandro and Deborah A. Dipalma to Dean and Christa Lockery, $558,000 on Jan. 12

: Paul & Bridie H Tracy Real Estate Trust and Paul Tracy to John M. and Rebecca Gushen, $450,000 on Jan. 13 97 Kelsey Springs Drive

12 Rivaldi Drive

: Rocco A. and Carol A. Difronzo to Jason D. Wilkerson and Emilie C. Wilkinson, $620,000 on Jan. 16

OLD SAYBROOK

: Julie Carroza and Renee P. Walsh to Sarante Athenson Lt and Sarante Athenson, $565,000 on Jan. 12

4 Gibbons Circle

: Margaret A. Dana to Phyllis B. and Patrick Jones, 175 Ferry Road Unit 3

Camille Bonito and Frank Bonito to Matthew Mandel and Angela N. Adinolfi, $575,000 on Jan. 12

Casandra and Laura Garceau to Lynn Stevens and Raymond Kowalsky, $195,000 on Jan. 14

: Colin L. Mcevily to Philip Wieloch, $550,000 on Jan. 12

: Steve Defrancesco to Vinnie and Mary E. Defrancesco, $300,000 on Jan. 12

: Ruben and Marlene Parra to Craig and Mary Labossiere, $620,000 on Jan. 13

: Ahd

Holdings LLC to Evan N. Woodford and Isabella Y. Chen, $1,385,000 on Jan. 15

: Amparito and Ivan Pozo to Colton and Abigail Fetters, $500,000 on Jan. 14

: Richard

East Nelson Real Estate Trust and Peter W. Nelson to Frank Capuano, $411,500 on Jan. 14

: Alan A. and Laura H. Miezejeski to Dianne N. and William B. Hearn, $450,000 on Jan. 15

: Sara B. Molgano to Julian Mayor and Bethany Lawrence, $238,000 on Jan. 15

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