Harbor News 02-26-26

February 26, 2026

Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXIX Iss. 9

$55M Old Saybrook Proposed Budget Gets March 3 Hearing

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer OLD SAYBROOK

An initial $55,189,596 budget proposal in Old Saybrook for 2026-27 calls for an increase of $2,346,188 over the previous year’s spending, a 4.4% increase. The proposal heads to a public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, at 6:30 p.m. at Old Saybrook Middle School.

The total budget comprises a town budget and an education budget. The proposed town budget is $22,623,966, an increase of $627,986, or 2.9%. The proposed education operating budget is $32,565,630, an increase of $1,718,202, or 5.6%.

According to Old Saybrook Finance Director Lee Ann Palladino, the town budget increase is due mainly to salary and benefit increases.

“The general government budget is comprised of two pieces, general government operations which is up 2.5% and there are no unusual items contributing to the increase just normal salary and benefit increases and slight increases to operational expenses such as electricity,” Palladino said.

“The debt service budget is up 5.5% as the

See page 7

Battling the Blizzard

Snow plows clear East Main Street in Clinton on Feb. 23 as a blizzard brings whiteout conditions to the region. Forecasters expect up to 2 feet of snow and wind gusts reaching 70 mph.

has published a new book about her long road to justice...........................................2

Westbrook boys basketball picked up a well-earned victory...............12

Wonderful Struggle An upcoming program at the New Haven Museum retells the story of Jewish women in the labor movement...................................19

Becky McClain: Telling Her Story

By Lee Howard

Becky McClain, a former Deep River resident and Pfizer Inc. scientist in Groton who fought the company not only over lab safety, has published a new book about her long road to justice, a quest that ended in a Hartford courtroom 16 years ago where she wound up winning a $2.3 million civil judgment after a two-week jury trial.

The book, published by Skyhorse Publishing and titled

Exposed: A Pfizer Scientist Battles Corruption, Lies, and Betrayal and Becomes a Biohazard Whistleblower

, takes readers into the labs where she was exposed to a novel lentivirus, into the courtroom where she battled not only Pfizer but a judge who later admitted a conflict of interest and into the offices of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an agency whose personnel appeared to be working in cahoots with her former employer, according to McClain’s telling.

“OSHA is not your friend,” McClain says she heard from her lawyer over and over.

Person of the Week

Indeed, when it came to fighting a powerful corporation, friends were hard to find on a variety of fronts. McClain says she found it almost impossible to locate a lawyer to take her case, and even doctors were hesitant to buck Pfizer, reluctant even as McClain fought to find out the properties of the virus that apparently infected her and led to terrifying bouts of painful paralysis.

Even most journalists, she says, seemed intimidated about writing in-depth stories about her case.

finally published an analysis of lab safety issues, according to McClain, only after she won her case and with the

See Becky McClain page 8

Letters Editor to the

A Few Issues to Consider

Acquiring the 2.2-acre parcel of land at Saybrook Point, formerly Dock & Dine, for a park would be desirable, but do the conditions of the transfer adequately cover environmental liabilities? A few issues to consider:

If the Dock & Dine property has any underground structures (e.g., tanks, septic systems, etc.), will these be removed before transfer? Will an environmental assessment of the Dock & Dine property be completed before transfer?

How will restaurant waste and septic be managed at the new restaurant? Can the current septic system handle the additional waste volume, or does the system have to be redesigned? If coastal flooding leads to sewage overflows into the Sound, who is responsible for cleanup? (I understand the Dock & Dine restaurant septic system overflowed after one of the hurricanes.)

As a possible solution, could the new Duffy Pavilion owner or tenant be asked to fund an escrow account? This account could then be used for cleanup costs

associated with the restaurant’s processes, such as costs for replacing or repairing damaged tanks, removal of contaminated soil, repair of damaged or flooded septic systems, or cleanup of contaminated runoff into the Sound. Such an escrow account would mean the funds would be immediately available, hopefully averting a legal battle over financing the cleanup. Also, a spill response plan would be desirable with this restaurant’s proximity to the water.

Lastly, if current zoning regulations don’t cover this type of “casual restaurant,” will new zoning requirements be implemented or proposed before the transfer is final?

These are some of my concerns, in addition to the likelihood of increased traffic in town. Charging nonresidents for parking might help solve this problem. Parking fees could help pay for park maintenance and, I suspect, would also influence the amount of traffic.

Linda Barlow Old Saybrook

Clinton Eyes 3.4% Spending Increase; Mill Rate Falls

By Eric O'Connell

Clinton’s initial proposed total budget for the next fiscal year is $68,662,383, a total that raises spending by $2,240,938, or 3.4%. However, those numbers are subject to revision before voters weigh in at a referendum in May.

The total proposed budget comprises a town budget and an education budget. The proposed town budget for 2026-27 is $23,574,179, an increase of $19,230, or 0.08%. The proposed education budget is $45,088,204, an increase of $2,221,708, or 5.18%.

While spending increases by 3.4% under the proposed budget, the mill rate would decrease from 31.14 mills to 22.75 mills, a 26.93% reduction, due to the revaluation increasing property values by 47%.

Town Manager Michelle Benivegna and Superintendent of Schools Maryann O’Donnell presented the budget proposals to the Town Council at a special meeting on Feb. 18. Because the presentation was intended as an overview, specific line items

were not discussed.

Both Benivegna and O’Donnell emphasized that the proposed budget is subject to change. As the budget season continues and projections are revised, the proposal will likely be adjusted before it is forwarded to voters for approval.

The largest driver of change on both the town and education sides of the budget is an increase in salaries and benefits. The change is most notable on the education side, where it accounts for roughly 76% of the proposed increase.

Proposed capital projects — spending on items that last longer than a budget cycle, such as vehicles or roof repairs — include paving, library upgrades, harbor dredging, public works equipment, and a police building generator.

Capital projects proposed on the education side include furniture replacement, painting, field restoration, security and network

playground upgrades, technology upgrades, and equipment replacement.

Obituaries

Obituary Kathleen Chayrigues

Old Saybrook

Kathleen (Reardon) Chayrigues passed away peacefully on Feb. 11, 2026, after a brief illness. She was 89 years old. She was a longtime resident of Old Saybrook prior to moving to Clinton several years ago.

Kay, as she was lovingly known to family and friends, is remembered as a thoughtful and kind woman who dedicated her life to the care of others, whether they be family, friends, or her nursing patients.

Kay was born in Waterbury, the only child of John and Mary (O’Sullivan) Reardon. She graduated from Sacred Heart High School and Waterbury Hospital School of Nursing. Kay also completed a nursing curriculum at Boston University, and throughout her career, she continued to further her education by enrolling in nursing courses at several Connecticut universities. She was certified as a gerontological nurse by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and after her retirement, she became certified in first-level training in Reiki healing. Kay spent the majority of her nursing career in the home health care industry, beginning with the Waterbury Visiting Nurses Association and finally as the Director of Clinical Services for VNA Community Care in Madison, where she formed many lasting friendships. She also worked at the American Red Cross in the blood donor program and, for seven years, served as the school nurse at the Joel Elementary School in Clinton.

Kay is survived by her best friend and husband of 60 years, Robert “Bob”; her daughter, Kara Martinez and her husband, Gary, of Baltimore, Md.; her son, John Chayrigues and his wife, Bethany, of Concord, Mass.; and her dearly beloved grandchildren, Dylan and Katherine Bennett, and Alexander and Abigail Chayrigues. She is also survived by her lifelong friend and “sister,” Marie Vitarelli of Middlebury, and her first cousin, Bonnie Horgan; and numerous second and third cousins of Ardfert, County Kerry, Ireland.

Kay was an avid reader, and she always enjoyed spending time discussing novels with her book club. Befitting her love of books, she served on the board of the Friends of the Acton Public Library in Old Saybrook. Later in life, she became a passionate Red Sox fan and was thrilled to be able to attend games at Fenway Park with her grandchildren.

She loved listening to jazz, sailing on Long Island Sound with Bob and her children, taking walks on the beach, and sending newspaper clippings to family and friends of humorous columns or interesting stories. She traveled extensively in the United States with Bob and was particularly fond of the Florida Keys and Lake Winnipesaukee. But her favorite vacations were always the family trips to Block Island, which she first visited with Bob before they were married, and which continued over many summers with her children and grandchildren.

As the child of Irish immigrants, Kay was fiercely proud of her Irish heritage. Fittingly, Kay met Bob on St. Patrick’s Day in 1963 at Reilly’s Pub in Hamden, and with the luck of the Irish, her final grandchild, Abigail, was born March 17, 2009. Kay cherished the trips she made to Ireland to visit her parents’ hometown and to spend time with her cousins. She was always thrilled when her cousin Terry O’Sullivan visited the U.S., and she and Bob often traveled to New York City to meet up with Terry and his wife, Angela. Always an excellent cook, Kay spent many years baking Irish soda bread on St. Patrick’s Day for friends and family.

At Kay’s request, there will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Kay’s Life will be held in the spring. Donations in her memory may be made to the Friends of the Acton Public Library in Old Saybrook or to Casting for Recovery, a support organization that provides fly-fishing retreats for women with breast cancer.

To her family and friends, Kay wished to convey this message: Wherever you go and whatever you do, be happy and know that my love will always be with you, forever. I cannot imagine what my life would have been like without you in it. It was a great ride.

“She stood in the storm, and when the wind did not blow her way (and it surely had not), she adjusted her sails.”

See Obituaries page 8

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Westbrook Names New Town Planner

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer WESTBROOK

Westbrook filled a key vacancy at Town Hall this month when the Board of Selectmen announced Abigail McVerry has been hired as the new town planner. She will begin the position in early March.

After exiting a short executive session Feb. 10, the Board of Selectmen unanimously voted to offer the job to McVerry. Per the motion, the salary is $81,000 for 35 hours per week, and the position is union. McVerry most recently served as a planner in the town of Cumberland, Rhode Island. She will begin her role March 9.

“We have been looking for someone to fill this position now for several months and have interviewed numerous candidates for the position over the past several

months. We had the various chairs of the land use committees involved in the interviews and selection process and we agreed that Abby was the right choice based upon her education and experience and her familiarity with Westbrook,” Westbrook Planning, Zoning and Development Director Peter Gillespie said.

According to the job description, McVerry will provide “administrative, professional and technical assistance with a wide range of planning, zoning and land use functions” on long-term and shortterm initiatives, in addition to conducting research and interfacing with the public as needed. She will work closely with the land use boards and commissions and on town land use projects. McVerry will report to the Planning, Zoning and Development Director.

Last year, Gillespie was appointed to his

current position from the town planner role, creating the vacancy. With a town planner now in place, Gillespie will oversee the zoning officer and the land use technician, while McVerry will handle planning duties.

“We have recently added new responsibilities to the office and she will assist with many of these. We recently created the Coastal Resiliency Implementation Committee, we will be creating a new Design Review Committee, we have various zoning regulation amendments that we need to catch up on, we continue to work on plans for the Town Center Wastewater solution, we recently joined the MRDA and the CT Main Street Program,” Gillespie said, noting that the proposed Westbrook Outlets Redevelopment project “will also require a great deal of attention and time.”

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.

$55M Old Saybrook Proposed Budget Gets March 3 Hearing

included in the proposed budget.

town will seek to issue debt for two new projects, renovations at the Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center and a new public works garage. These projects are subject to approval by referendum.”

Palladino specified that the Kate and public works garage referendum will be held separately from the budget referendum. Final cost projections have not yet been defined, so it is unclear what the bond issuance would be, Palladino said.

In a budget overview document available on the town website, First Selectman Carl Fortuna stated, “The Town’s mill rate is currently 15.50. At present, the FY27 budget, as projected and inclusive of the Board of Education budget, will likely see an increase in the mill rate to 15.94.”

In the document, Fortuna noted that “outside factors” such as state mandates and larger geopolitical strife have affected the proposed budget.

“Inflation and supply chain issues have driven up the cost of labor and materials for everyone and, although supplies are more readily available, the base cost has risen. In other words, things cost more. I have examined both the expenditure and revenue side of the budget, and I believe responsible and sustainable decisions have been made, and I believe we still are providing our citizens with all they have come to expect,” Fortuna wrote in part.

In an email to the Harbor News, Fortuna outlined some of the capital projects

Achieve Wellness Offers Yoga

Continued from page 1 Achieve Wellness Chiropractic, 210 Main Street, Old Saybrook, offers all levels of yoga classes on Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. The cost is $10 per class on a drop-in basis. For more information, contact 860-798-2235 or bodyaahdesigns@gmail.com.

“We have a lot on the agenda for next year with the completion of several large construction projects while undertaking new construction projects in the North Main Street/Boston Post Road area, Ferry Road (new soccer field), Saybrook Point (seawall repair/new trail, and possibly more depending on the town referendum) and Main Street where there will be newly paved parking spots up and down Main Street (after the conclusion of the crosswalk project),” Fortuna wrote.

Fortuna also pointed to new projects such as upcoming library upgrades, as well as the potential DPW garage and Kate expansion.

“The town budget continues to build on prior year’s successes and that benefits our citizens and those who work and play here,” Fortuna wrote.

Palladino and Fortuna stressed that they could only speak to the town side of the budget, as the Board of Education budget is developed independently from the town side. Questions pertaining to the education budget were not answered by press time.

At the public hearing, representatives from the town and Board of Education will present their respective budgets and invite citizen input.

From there, the Board of Finance will deliberate on any changes to the budget. A referendum will be held May 12.

More information about the proposed budget can be found on the town website.

FEBRUARY 26, 2026

Obituaries

Continued from page 5

Obituary Doreen Porter Old Saybrook

Doreen (Peterson) Porter, of Old Saybrook, passed away peacefully Feb. 9, 2026, surrounded by family at the age of 71.

Doreen was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a lifelong resident of Old Saybrook and a school bus driver in the town for nearly 40 years. She took pride in getting her children to and from school safely, and cherished the many relationships she formed over the years. Bus B will never be the same.

The most important things in life to Doreen were her family and friends.

Her love, laugh, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by many. Those who knew and loved her will cherish her memories.

She is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, John Porter; her three daughters, Debra Porter, Jennifer Beebe, and Amanda Castaneda; her five grandchildren: Jason, Jillian, Jordan, Caroline, and Ana, who were her greatest joy; and her brother, Robert Peterson (Toni). Doreen is predeceased by her parents, Carl Peterson and Charlotte Parsons (McGrath); along with her three brothers, Carl, Richard, and David.

There will be no services, but there will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Shoreline Arts Alliance Announces Student Art Competition

Shoreline Arts Alliance (SAA) invites high school students in its 24-town region to submit artwork for its 42nd Annual Future Choices Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition. The exhibit will be held Wednesday, April 8, through Saturday, April 11, and Wednesday, April 22, through Monday, April 27, at Flat Rock Gallery, 314 Flat Rock Place, Suites F135 and F140, Westbrook. Artwork in ceramics, drawing, digital media, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video must be submitted by Friday, March 27, by either the student or a teacher. Cash awards will be presented in each category, along with special honors including Best in Show and the Earl Grenville Killeen Founders Award. For guidelines and submission information, visit www.shorelinearts.org/future-choices. For more information, call 203-421-6739 or email Office@shorelinearts.org.

Town of Old Saybrook

At a Special Town Meeting held February 2, 2026, following a Public Hearing, on a motion duly made and seconded it was unanimously voted to follow the recommendations of the Board of Selectmen and send the question to a Referendum to be held Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Said referendum shall take place at the Old Saybrook Senior High School Gymnasium, 1111 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, Connecticut, from 12 Noon to 8:00 p.m.

Said question will be placed on the voting machines as follows:

1. “Shall the Town acquire title to the former Dock and Dine Property (2.23 acres, 145 College Street) in exchange for the conveyance of title to the Duffy Pavilion and the leasing of land under and around the Duffy Pavilion to Dock6, LLC (approximately 12,700 square feet, 155 College Street)?”

YES NO

Carl P. Fortuna, Jr., First Selectman

Scott Giegerich, Selectman

Jane Wisialowski, Selectman

Submitted: Sarah V. Becker, Town Clerk

Becky McClain: Telling Her Story

Continued from page 2

intervention of consumer advocate Ralph Nader, who also wrote the forward to her new book.

McClain, now living in Albuquerque, N.M., said in a Zoom call last month that she continues to battle for the rights of lab workers exposed to dangers in the workplace. Pfizer, despite losing the lawsuit in 2010, has continued to insist that McClain was not exposed to a biosafety hazard, and the original judge in the case had dismissed all counts involving safety in the workplace, forcing the veteran scientist to make the case a free-speech issue as she insisted the pharmaceutical giant had tried to muzzle her safety complaints.

McClain’s journey from a scientist at Pfizer to a biohazard whistleblower started, according to her book, with her being named to the safety committee at the Groton labs. She soon found that scientists working in the labs had a series of safety concerns, and she started insisting that management take those complaints seriously. But after a series of confrontations, Pfizer eventually disbanded the committee, according to the book. (Pfizer did not respond to a series of questions about allegations in the book.)

She would constantly go through established channels to complain about safety, as the book enumerates, but managers would either pooh-pooh the issue or do testing she said was botched to ensure no problem was detected. Meanwhile, McClain was earning awards for her work, but her manager nevertheless gave her a poor performance review.

So McClain decided to bring her complaints to OSHA, against her lawyer’s advice. At first, the agency created to help workers deal with workplace hazards seemed to be willing to help. But in the end, all her attempts to document safety issues went nowhere, she said.

At the same time, McClain’s physical health was going downhill after she became infected from an experiment done without permission by a colleague at her worksite. She was diagnosed with a transient condition that led to periodic paralysis.

The effect was “a lightning bolt shot through my spine,” she said in the book, yet Pfizer wouldn’t release records identifying the “lentivirus that Pfizer exposed me to.” Then OSHA informed her that the genetic coding of the virus had been declared a trade secret by Pfizer, according to McClain, and that she therefore had no right to records associated with her exposure.

“I was the lab rat that had been exposed

by Pfizer, caged within Pfizer’s web of influence, their lies, and their secrets with no health and safety rights,” McClain writes in the book.

McClain uses the names of local Pfizer scientists she engaged with in the labs and those who opposed her in court, but they have been changed to protect her from potential lawsuits. Several of these Pfizer leaders won scientific recognition and prominent positions, she said, despite the way they treated her. McClain said she soon recognized that the power of money had corrupted large swaths of the scientific community.

“Business interests now overshadowed the once-held academic values of transparency and honesty, severing the social contract that academia had long shared with society in service of the public good,” McClain writes in the book. “Patents and trade secrets and private ownership became the names of the game in biotechnology instead of public well being and health.”

But far from becoming cynical, McClain continued to plow through writing a book, something she says she was ill-equipped to do. By following the lead of novelists, she realized the power of the cliff-hanger chapter ending, and she used the technique to keep readers craving every word, never quite sure how it will all end.

Her writing takes interesting side turns

See Becky McClain page 9

Clinton Eyes 3.4% Spending Increase; Mill Rate Falls

Continued from page 4

Many Steps to Go

The proposed budget now moves into the hands of the Town Council, which has the final authority to propose a finalized budget. The council will hold more indepth discussions during budget workshops scheduled for the remainder of February and early March. At those workshops, each department’s budget is reviewed line by line.

While no two budget seasons are identical, the current proposal will likely be altered before residents attend a public hearing at Town Hall to voice their opinions.

Following the workshops, the council will hold a special meeting March 12 to make any adjustments to the proposed budget and send it to a public hearing.

A public hearing will be held April 20 on the proposed town and education budgets. At that hearing, speakers may voice their opinions for or against either budget.

Becky McClain: Telling Her Story

Continued from page 8

as well, noting that she came under surveillance in her Deep River neighborhood and had her computer hacked. She also tells about how her husband, Mark, was harassed at his job working for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and he was eventually forced out.

“Mark’s employer, the FDA was trying to interfere with my federal lawsuit against Pfizer,” McClain wrote in the book. Yet, through it all, and despite several unfavorable rulings from the judge, who insisted she couldn’t give testimony that mentioned public health and safety problems, McClain won a unanimous jury decision in her favor. The initial judgment of $1.3 million, which McClain said covered only back pay and employment benefits for 10 years, eventually was upped to $2.3 million, which covered her attorney’s fees. “It was only then, in 2013, after receiv-

ing the final payment from Pfizer, that the mysterious cars and men, the surveillance, the computer hacking and the threats against Mark and me suddenly stopped,” McClain writes. “And although I had won, Pfizer never had to address or remedy any of their dangerous biosafety practices, were never inspected by OSHA, nor levied any OSHA fine.”

McClain tied the lack of oversight of biotech facilities worldwide to our most recent health disaster, the pandemic of 2020-2023, which has been tied most probably to the release of a pathogen from a lab in China. But she said that the stifling of dissenting voices in the scientific community may be just as problematic.

“I want the public to somehow understand that it is an issue that somehow we have to correct,” McClain says. “Otherwise, get ready for another pandemic.”

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, March 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following:

PZC-26-2 and PZC 26-3: Site Plan and CAM, pursuant to 8-30g for affordable housing, 5 Liberty Place, Map 53, Block 54, Lot 14, Zone R-60. Applicant: Jarod Horner, CLA Engineers.

PZC 26-5: Coastal Site Plan, pursuant to Section 27.2.51 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 117 Nod Road, Map 14, Block 3, Lot 26, Zone I-P. 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.

Immediately following the public hearing, the Town Council will hold another special meeting at which it may make final changes before sending the budgets to a referendum in May.

At the referendum, residents will vote to approve or reject the proposed town and education budgets individually. Because voters cast ballots separately for each bud-

get, they may pass one and reject the other at the same referendum. If one or both budgets fail, the Town Council will revise them immediately following the vote. Another public hearing will be held the following week, followed by another referendum the week after that hearing.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF WESTBROOK

The legal voters of the Town of Westbrook, Connecticut and all others qualified to vote in meetings of said Town are hereby notified and warned that a Special Town Meeting will be held in the Multi-Media Room of the Teresa Mulvey Municipal Center, 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. to act on the following matters:

Item 1. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance:

RESOLVED: That a sum not to exceed $60,000.00 be appropriated from the Fund Balance to facilitate the purchase and installation of a scale at the Transfer Station and said amount is hereby appropriated for such purpose.

Item2. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance:

RESOLVED: That a sum not to exceed $125,000.00 be appropriated from the Fund Balance to facilitate the purchase of salt prior to 4/1/26 and said amount is hereby appropriated for such purpose.

Item 3. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance:

RESOLVED: That the First Selectman is hereby authorized to accept a grant in the amount of $40,000.00 from the Westbrook Foundation to fund the installation of a Pickle Ball Court and said amount is hereby appropriated for such purpose.

Item 4. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance:

RESOLVED: That the First Selectman is hereby authorized to accept a grant in the amount of $6,000.00 from the Westbrook Foundation to fund Vacation Park & Rec Camp and said amount is hereby appropriated for such purpose.

Item 5. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance:

RESOLVED: That the First Selectman is hereby authorized to accept a grant in the amount of $16,650.00 from the Westbrook Foundation to fund the Social Services Transportation Program and said amount is hereby appropriated for such purpose.

Item 6. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance:

RESOLVED: That the First Selectman is hereby authorized to accept a grant in the amount of $1,500.00 from the Community Foundation of Middlesex County to fund Children’s Literacy Programs at the Westbrook Library and said amount is hereby appropriated for such purpose.

Item7. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance:

RESOLVED: That the First Selectman is hereby authorized to accept a grant in the amount of $7,530.16 from the State of Connecticut, Secretary of State to fund early voting and said amount is hereby appropriated for such purpose.

Item 8. To consider and act upon the following, as recommended by the Board of Selectman:

RESOLVED: To amend Section 17-3 of the Veteran’s Tax Exemption Ordinance to include sub-sections d, e and f (see attached).

Dated at Westbrook, Connecticut this 25th day of February, 2026.

Board of Selectmen

John Hall, III

First Selectman

Joe Campbell

Selectman

Chet Bialicki

Selectman

“In accordance with American with Disabilities Act, Final Rule 1994 for State and Local Government Facilities, Special Accommodations will be provided upon notification to agency within a reasonable time of such need”.

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of February 26 - March 4

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, your natural charisma is at an all-time high right now. A bold idea you’ve been sitting on finally gets the green light. Put your plan into action this week.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Comfort and luxury find you this week, Taurus. Expect a heartwarming moment in your personal or professional life that restores your sense of peace and well-being,

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Your social circle may expand this week in the best way possible, Gemini. A new connection brings a refreshing perspective to a creative project. Now you’ll work out the details.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Recognition is coming your way, Cancer. Your hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. A small win will feel like a major victory, helping to inspire you to keep going.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, adventure is calling you this week. Whether you take a trip or get involved in a new book, your mind is expanding and your imagination is soaring.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

A solution to an unsolved puzzle finally clicks into place, Virgo. You will feel a deep sense of relief and clarity. Don’t take on too much more right now, and ride this high that you are feeling.

FEBRUARY 26

Michael Bolton, Singer (73)

FEBRUARY 27

Josh Groban, Singer (45)

FEBRUARY 28

Kelly Bishop, Actress (82)

MARCH 1

Cara Buono, Actress (55)

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

A conversation with a loved one could bring you two closer together than ever before, Libra. In fact, harmony will be a major player in all of your relationships right now.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

You are a magnet for productivity this week, Scorpio. You will breeze through your list of things to do with plenty of time left over for self-care.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, creativity is your superpower this week. Do not be afraid to express yourself through art, music, writing, or other creative pursuits.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Your foundation this week feels rock solid, Capricorn. A family matter is resolved with grace, leaving you feeling supported and loved. You will share good fortune with others.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

This is the perfect week to share your vision with the world, Aquarius. Your communication skills are sharp. People will come around to your way of thinking.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Abundance is flowing toward you, Pisces. Keep your eyes open for a surprise gift or a sudden increase in the tools you need to get things done.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 2

Jon Bon Jovi, Singer (64) MARCH 3

Camila Cabello, Singer (29) MARCH 4

Catherine O’Hara, Actress (72)

CLUES ACROSS

1. What travelers must do

5. Calendar month

8. Hopefully quickly

12. Once more

14. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

15. “Cheers” actress Perlman

16. Astronomy unit

18. Savings vehicle

19. Get your ducks in this

20. Right away

21. Popular sports league

22. Containers

23. Entireties

26. One who wassails

30. Turned-up position

31. Extreme modesty

32. Writing utensil

33. Rewards (archaic)

34. Ancient capital

39. S. American wood sorrel

42. General discomfort

44. Philippine island

46. A witty saying

47. One who summarizes

49. Covered in

50. Mimic

51. Henry was a notable one

56. Daughter of Hera and Zeus

57. Retired NFLer Newton

58. Playground equipment

59. Concept

60. Satisfaction

61. Fishing net

62. Hammer end

63. A father’s male child

64. Japanese drink

CLUES DOWN

1. Off-Broadway figure

2. Gelatinous substance

3. Concern

4. “Lick It Up” rockers

5. Serbian river

6. Part of a hat

7. Bowl-shaped drinking vessel

8. Semitic language

9. Utter a shrill cry

10. Long times

11. Animal parts

13. Causing annoyance

17. Amorous talker

24. Attempt

25. Harmonic effects

26. Cost per mile

27. They __

28. Bitterly regret

29. Not even

35. A way to drop

36. Title of respect

37. World leader

38. Georgia rockers

40. National capital

41. Great Plains people

42. Duck-sized dinosaur genus

43. Architectural recesses

44. Member of U.S. Navy

45. Mountainous

47. Kite bird

48. Sweetheart (archaic)

49. Popular snack made of potato

52. 70s songsters The Bee __

53. SE China port __-men

54. Something to fill up

55. League of Legends character

Word Search

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

CANNED GOODS WORD SEARCH

BRINE CAN CANISTER FERMENTATION FILLED LABEL LID

LINING

OPENER

PACKING

PASTEURIZE PICKLING PRESERVE PROCESSING REHYDRATE

ROTATION

SEALING

SHELF

STERILE

STOCKPILE

STORAGE

SYRUP TIN

VACUUM

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for February 19, 2026: BOOKS

Word Search solution for February 19, 2026

Westbrook Snaps 52-Game Skid With Win Over Parish Hill

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

It’s been a long road for the Westbrook boys basketball team, as coach Garrett Hickey has worked to rebuild the program. The Knights hadn’t won a regular-season game in nearly three seasons and competed with only underclassmen for much of that time.

That changed Feb. 16, when Westbrook defeated Parish Hill, 44-31. The victory snapped a 52-game losing streak and showed progress for the program.

Hickey said that, regardless of the team’s 1-19 record this year, it played its best basketball at the end of the season, which is a positive sign of growth.

“Every season, no matter what the outlook of it is at the beginning of the year, is going have its ups and downs, and we certainly did,” Hickey said. “I’ve always said that the main goal for everyone’s season is to play your best basketball at the end of the season, whether that’s going to be in mid-February or going into March, if you’re in the postseason. I think we definitely did that with our guys this year, which is great to see.”

After opening the season with 17 consecutive losses, Westbrook went on the road to face Parish Hill and secured its first win. The momentum carried into the final two games.

Westbrook faced Coginchaug the next day and trailed by 13 points at halftime. In previous games, similar deficits had grown to 20 or 30 points. Instead, Westbrook rallied and forced overtime for the first time this season.

The Knights ultimately fell, 61-55, but continued to show improvement. In the final game of the season against Gilbert, Westbrook scored 22 points in the first quarter, its highest single-quarter total of the season.

Hickey said once the team “got that monkey off their back” with its first win, it took another step forward.

“Losing 52 games in a row in any sport is tough, but especially in basketball. They’ve done a really good job of buying in and not worrying about the scoreboard,” Hickey said. “At the end of the day, winning does help…we did a really good job of handling ourselves in that win, and then they celebrated it in the locker room.”

Hickey reminded the team that it is important to celebrate wins because they

are difficult to earn.

“Winning is really hard, and we probably know that more than anybody else in the state,” he said. “You want to celebrate it, and you want to enjoy it that night.

There was definitely a change in their mindset afterwards. You could just tell they were a lot looser when we had to play the next day at Coginchaug.”

Westbrook’s performance in the final three games reflected the team’s growth. What began as freshmen and sophomores adjusting to the varsity level ultimately developed into a more competitive group.

Hickey said the sophomores grew more confident as the season progressed, but he saw the most improvement among the freshmen.

“Our freshmen grew a ton. All six of

them played at some point during the year. Our point guard, Dylan Cocchiola, basically played every single minute of every single game and brought the ball up every single time. That’s a really hard thing for anybody to do, whether you’re a freshman or a senior,” Hickey said. “But for him, his growth was really tremendous. He, along with a bunch of other guys, has a really bright future in the program.”

The one player who will not return next season is senior Miles Hayden. The quiet, lead-by-example captain provided a calming presence in the locker room and demonstrated the value of commitment and development.

Hayden was the only player in his grade to continue playing despite the team’s struggles.

“His classmates quit the sport because we weren’t doing well and it was getting hard, and they were losing a lot of games,” Hickey said. “He stuck through it, and we said on senior night that you don’t see that a lot anymore. A lot of times, when things get hard, people tend to shy away from it or leave or quit, and Miles is the opposite of that.”

Hickey added that Hayden set an example for the younger players.

“He just put the work in. You stay the course when you’ve committed to something,” he said. “If a lot of student athletes everywhere could just take an example from him and just stick it out and get through the hard stuff, I think that would be great for high school sports.”

Hand Co-op Eyes SCC, Class L Titles

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The Daniel Hand boys swimming co-op team, which also includes Branford and Old Saybrook, entered the season with high expectations after a successful 2025 campaign.

Last season, the team finished 9-1 and was runner-up at the Southern Connecticut Conference meet and the Class L State Championship meet. The co-op knew it would be difficult to match last year’s standard, especially with many standout swimmers graduating.

The team lost eight state finalists from 2025, but Hand coach Scott Butler said the group remained confident despite the roster changes and has continued to find success as the postseason begins.

“As a coach, I try to raise the bar a little bit higher each and every season,” Butler said. “I instill that belief in my athletes. However, this bar was set super high. In fact, the 2025 team was arguably the best team I ever coached, and I have coached varsity since 2001.”

Butler is in his 29th season as a high school head coach, his fourth at Daniel Hand and his third leading the co-op with Branford and Old Saybrook.

The team is 7-2 this season with six fewer swimmers than a year ago. Butler said the smaller roster has served as a benefit, giving the group something even last year’s team did not have.

“This team has full unity,” Butler said. “These young men have banded together in such a way

that they have become a true team, something that is really difficult, especially when teams are blended from different schools.”

Butler added that the swimmers motivate one another to improve.

“These boys trust one another, they push one another, and they know that they each have each other’s back when needed,” he said. “They cheer one another on, and most importantly, they have fun, and we have fun.”

The team’s three captains are Grant Campbell, Chase Barone, and Alexander Sanchez-Ampu-

dio. Butler praised the captains for their leadership and the example they have set.

He said the three have become close friends through the co-op.

“They have gelled in ways that we coaches hope for,” Butler said. “The effort they put into their roles as captains is second to none. We have all become really close as a team, and I have the three of them to thank for it.”

Butler said he reminds his athletes that “teammates push teammates to be better teammates.”

“I have instilled that in them in the four years that I have been

their head coach,” he said.

“Getting to see them move up the ranks each year, growing into wonderful young men, has been an absolute joy. I have five children of my own, but I consider all three of them my ‘other’ children.”

As the team heads into the postseason, it will compete at Amity in the SCC meet before the

Class L championship. After falling short of a title last year, the team hopes to build on its regular-season success in the postseason.

“We can’t wait to see what the postseason brings, and I cannot wait to see how these three young men will lead us through it.”

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!

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!

“A Wonderful Struggle” Retells Stories of Jewish Women in the Labor Movement

Teachers. Social workers. Secretaries.

When we think of women in the labor movement, these occupations may not come to mind. Yet in New Haven and elsewhere, women in white-collar and “pink-collar” jobs broke new ground in the 1970s and ’80s by organizing and demanding labor rights.

The New Haven Museum (NHM) and Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven (JHSGNH) will present the stories of Jewish women in New Haven who fought for labor rights during the 20th century at the fourth annual Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Program, “A Wonderful Struggle: Local Jewish Women in the Labor Movement,” on Sunday, March 1, at 2 p.m. The program will also stream on Facebook Live. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be recorded for social media.

In the words of Edie Bartman Fishman, who was active in unions ranging from electrical workers to teachers, “Life is a struggle. But it’s a wonderful struggle when you’re fighting for the right things.”

Jewish women fought to improve working conditions and pay in Connecticut for more than a century. Some of the women highlighted in the “A Wonderful Struggle” program won landmark victories in fields traditionally considered women’s work. Their stories still reverberate today, as the United States commemorates its 250th birthday and the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven its 50th.

Society of Greater New Haven and the New Haven Museum is dedicated to the memory of Judith Ann Schiff, who spent a lifetime promoting women’s, ethnic, and Elm City history. Schiff was an archivist at Yale’s Sterling Memorial Library for over 60 years and New Haven’s first female city historian. She grew up in New Haven and graduated from Hillhouse High School. She received a bachelor’s degree in American history from Barnard College and master’s degrees in library science from Southern Connecticut State University and in history from Columbia University. She co-founded several organizations, including the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven, the Ethnic Heritage Center of New Haven, and New England Archivists. She served on the boards of the New Haven Museum and Grove Street Cemetery and was heavily involved with the League of Women Voters. She received the Yale Medal in 2020 and passed away in 2022.

About the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven

2026 Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Film Series, will take place at various locations in the Elm City.

Michael Dimenstein, co-president of the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven, notes that many JHSGNH members have been involved in labor issues in their respective careers.

Joelle Fishman, daughter of labor organizer Edie Fishman, will discuss dock workers and factory workers from New Jersey to New Haven.

Lois Wessel will share memories of her mother, social worker, and union president Irm Wessel.

In addition, the Nu Haven Kapelye Allstars—Cynthia Astmann, Dana Astmann, and Hedda Rubenstein—will perform traditional workers’ songs in both Yiddish and English.

A collection of items relating to the women highlighted in the program and their work environments will be featured in the Community Case in the New Haven Museum rotunda during the month of March.

A companion film series, the

In “A Wonderful Struggle: Local Jewish Women in the Labor Movement,” attendees will hear in person and on video from women who participated in the massive New Haven teachers strike of 1975 and in the historic victories of Yale University clerical and technical workers in 1983-1984. They will describe the issues that motivated them to join the “wonderful struggle,” the difficulties they encountered, what helped them succeed, the results that followed the strikes and creation of new unions, and the ways these activities influenced their future work experiences.

“As long-term residents of New Haven, they are aware of the local labor issues, strikes, results, and work remaining to be done, and we are happy to share this important discussion with the public.”

About the Speakers

Jennifer Klein, labor historian and the Bradford Durfee professor of history at Yale University, will provide an overview of women in the labor movement.

Barbara Greenwood, retired teacher at High School in the Community, and Helene Sapadin, retired teacher at Welch Annex, will discuss the historic 1975 New Haven teachers strike.

Susan Voigt and Deborah Chernoff, former clerical workers at Yale and leaders in the creation of Local 34 and the historic strike of 1984, will discuss Yale clerical and technical workers.

About Judith Ann Schiff

This annual lecture series presented by the Jewish Historical

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 currently located in the Ethnic Heritage Center, on the campus of Southern Connecticut State University, at 270 Fitch Street, New Haven. For more information, call 203-392-6125 or visit jewishhistorynh.org.

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

THURSDAY,

FEB. 26

East Shore Health District Information Session

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

Pump Up Your Heart: Nutrition Talk

: 11 a.m. to noon.

Congregational Church in Killingworth, 273 Rte. 81. Presented by Natalie A. Webb, consulting dietitian for Big Y. Covers eating plans for heart health, including tips for those with high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation. Hosted by the Killingworth Women’s Organization (KWO). Free. For info or to register (required), visit facebook.com/kwo06419.

Scrapbooking Class

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

Increasing Coastal Resilience at Hammonasset Beach State Park

: 6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Presented by Audubon Connecticut. Free public presentation on efforts to increase coastal resilience at Hammonasset Beach State Park. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

“Billy Winter’s Neighbors”

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

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

: 7 p.m. Webinar. Presented by Osprey researchers Michael Academia from the William & Mary University and Ben Wurst from the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey along with Connecticut Audubon’s Milan Bull and Matt Joyce. Part of the 2026 Young, Gifted, and Wild About Birds series. Hosted by the Connecticut Audubon Society. Cost: $9 for members, $12 for nonmembers. Pro-

ceeds benefit the Connecticut Audubon Society conservation programs. For info or to register, visit ctaudubon.org/2026.

When the Cranes Fly South

Willoughby Book Talk: by Lisa Ridzen

When the Cranes Fly South

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

Willoughby Book Talk

When the Cranes Fly South

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

FRIDAY, FEB. 27

Little Learners: Things that Go

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

Writers Writing

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

Tween Time: Pokémon Party

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

Meet The Met at Lyme Academy: Helene Schjerfbeck Lecture

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

SATURDAY, FEB. 28

Kids Create: Dragon Eggs

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

Calendar for the Week of February 26, 2026

Maple Sugaring Demonstration

: Noon to 1 p.m. North Quarter Park, Chester. Demonstration with Chester sugaring expert Kim Price on the maple sugaring process. Presented by Chester Parks and Recreation. For info, contact 860-526-0013 or parkrec@chesterct.org, or visit chesterct.org.

29th Annual Old Saybrook Chili Fest

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

Movie Screening

: Noon to 3 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Screening of a musical film. Registration required. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Creative Writing Workshop and Book Signing with Catherine Con Morse

The Notes The Summer I Remembered Everything

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

Shoreline Day of Yoga and Peace Within

: 1 to 4:30 p.m.

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

Paint Along with Natalie: Winter Cardinal Canvas

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

See page 21

Spring into Art Classes and Workshops at GAC

Guilford Art Center (GAC) invites adults and children to unleash their inner artist at any of its art classes or workshops this spring. All class offerings can be found in the new online catalog at www.guilfordartcenter.org.

Online registration has opened for classes and workshops in ceramics, metals and jewelry, weaving, and all other mediums.

Students and artists can dive into a world of creativity at GAC and explore a range of art-making opportunities, includ-

Continued from page 20

ing blacksmithing, painting, pottery, metalsmithing, jewelry-making, weaving, drawing, and fiber arts. Whether a student is a seasoned pro or just beginning an artistic journey, there’s something available for everyone.

Teens can explore clay classes or get fired up in the blacksmith forge. Younger artists can get their hands dirty with pottery, drawing, collage, and painting. There are also special Harry Potter-themed workshops over the spring break, April 16-17.

“Art has a way of making our lives vibrant and exciting as we explore our

Molecules of the Mind: Designing PsychedelicInspired Medicines on a Computer

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

Jazz Trio at Henry on Main

: 4 p.m. Henry on Main, 10 W. Main St., Clinton. Features Adam Anderson on bass, Naomi Wharry on trombone, and Russ Algera on drums. Tickets: $10 at the door. For info, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

own visions, and it connects us to others as we learn together. Our classroom environments are thriving as people return to the creative endeavors that they love or want to discover,” says GAC Executive Director Maureen Belden.

Students can also register by contacting the GAC office at 203-453-5947 or visiting the GAC office in person, Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Online and inperson registration remains open throughout the semester.

Full listings of all classes can be found on the GAC website at www.guilfordartcenter.org. For more

Stony Creek in Song: A Village Gathering to Make Music

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

SUNDAY, MARCH 1

How to Grow Your Small Business

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

Babysitting Course

: 1 to 4 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1272 Durham Rd., Madison. Day one of a two-part babysitting and CPR course for Madison-area youth. Covers childcare and safety skills. Participants receive a certificate of completion from SafeSitter. Tui-

information, contact GAC at 203-4535947 or info@guilfordartcenter.org.

About Guilford Art Center

The Guilford Art Center is a nonprofit school, shop, and gallery established to nurture and support excellence in the arts. Through classes for adults and children, gallery programs, a shop of contemporary crafts, and special events, the GAC fulfills its mission to provide opportunities for the public to participate in the arts, to experience their cultural and historical diversity, and to appreciate the process and product of creative work.

tion: $60. Bundle discount available for registering for both sessions. For info or to register, contact 888-2123827 or info@yourafterschool.com, or visit northmadisoncc.org/babysittingcourse.

A Wonderful Struggle: Local Jewish Women in the Labor Movement

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

page 22

Continued from page 21

MONDAY, MARCH 2

From Cosmos to Compost: Our Place in the Universe

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

Movie Matinee

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

Non-Combat Life of the Civil War Soldie

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

Author Event: Rachel Rueckert

The Determined

: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . Features a discussion by Rachel Rueckert of her historical novel set during the Golden Age of Pirates and centered on Anne Bonny and Mary Read. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 3

SSILL Spring 2026 Semester: Opening Reception and Concert

: 9:30 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St. Features music by the Connecticutbased Shoreline Jazz Quintet. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Free and open to the public. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-4538086 or visit ssill.org.

Library Renewal with Stephen Watson

: 2 to 3 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Monthly Tai Chi class designed to promote balance and ease of mind. Movements may be done seated or with an assistive device. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Math Mania

: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features math games with a World Wildlife Day–themed “Who Would Win?” comparison activity. For elementaryage children. For info or to register (required), call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Seuss-a-Palooza

professional. Free to residents of Guilford, Branford, Madison, and Clinton. For info or to register, contact 203458-6699 or info@womenandfamilylife.org, or visit womenandfamilylife.org.

What is a Trust: Do you Need One?

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

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

A Defiant Woman

: 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.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Michael Perry

Yale Jazz Ensembles Big Band Spring Band

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 5

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Lecture by Jim Sirch, naturalist and president of the Connecticut Horticultural Society, on creating landscapes that function well for people and wildlife. Free. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Creating a Healthy Ecosystem in Your Landscape, and Why It Matters Drive-In Movie Night

The Cat in the Hat Oh, the Places You’ll Go

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Celebrates Read Across America Week with readings of and , followed by themed STEM activities and a craft. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Divorce Mortgage Workshop

: 6 p.m. Via Zoom. Hosted by the Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC), 96 Fair St., Guilford. Led by Marc Meglio, a certified divorce lending

The Jesus Cow Population: 485

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

Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Michael Perry

: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Children decorate cardboard “cars” and watch a storybook film in the children’s room. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Author Event: Betsy Rubiner

: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Our Diaries, Ourselves. For info or to register (required), call 203-2453959 or visit rjjulia.com.

The Jesus Cow Population: 485

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

Take Your Child to the Library Day

: 3 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center presents Prehistoric Wildlife in the Community Room. Two animal ambassadors will attend. The first 20 children who register will receive an excavation project. Scavenger hunt and Take & Make craft available. Registration is required for the presentation. For info or to register (required), call 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

Understanding Connecticut Title 19 and Funeral Planning: How Medicaid Benefits Impact End-of-Life Arrangements

: 6 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Informational presentation on how Connecticut’s Title 19 (Medicaid) benefits affect funeral planning, including pre-funded and irrevocable funeral contracts and Medicaid eligibility considerations. Presented by Swan Funeral Home. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Junk Journal Workshop: Start Your Story

: 6 p.m. R.J.

Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Handson workshop introducing participants to junk journaling techniques and creative storytelling. Materials provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Adult Movie Night

: 6 to 8 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Free screening in the adult reading area after closing. Title available on the library calendar. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 THROUGH SATURDAY, MARCH 7

Chicago

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

FRIDAY, MARCH 6

The Untold Toll of Avian Influenza on Bird Populations Tweens Writing

: 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81, Killingworth. Workshop-style writing program for ages 9 to 12. Participants may bring a current assignment or original work. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Junior Chefs: Monster Cookie Balls

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

See page 24

Belle Vie Café Exhibit Showcases Guilford

brings the ordinary to life. Even when I switch mediums, that’s still what I’m after.”

, which features art pieces by Steven Plaziak, runs through Wednesday, April 15, at the Loft Gallery at Belle Vie Café. The show continues Belle Vie Café’s tradition of supporting local artists.

The exhibit showcases Guilford buildings and landscapes includes , , and

Guilford: Our Town February Thaw Medad Stone Tavern Barns at Long Hill Farm

Located at 20 Church Street, Guilford, the Belle Vie Café Loft Gallery is open every day from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Plaziak has called Guilford home for the past 30 years. He finds the town’s landscapes, shoreline, and historic architecture offer constant inspiration and fleeting moments worth noticing. Each season brings its own shift in color and light, and his paintings are simple experiments in illuminating the ordinary.

“My sketchbook is where each piece begins. Through quick value studies, I develop a roadmap before moving into paint. I work in whatever medium I’m currently exploring—watercolor, oil, or gouache—enjoying the different possibilities each one brings. As a watercolorist, I’m always chasing light—how it shapes the atmosphere and

Plaziak is an elected artist of the Lyme Art Association and a member of the Shoreline Arts Trail.

Meandering Marsh, Vineyard Point

His oil painting recently received first prize in the Guilford Art League’s 77th Annual Juried Exhibition.

For more information about the Shoreline Arts Trail, visit shorelineartstrail.org.

For more information about Steven Plaziak, email steven.plaziak@gmail.com.

Continued from page 22

Military Whist Game Night

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 7

Family Leprechaun Hike: Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Program

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

:

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

: Noon to 2 p.m. BACA Art Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Hands-on workshop focused on creating jewelry using provided materials. Cost: $50. For info or to register, call 203-4334071.

Alice in Wonderland

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

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

Annual Corned Beef Dinner

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

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

from the Karlheinz Kronberger Collection

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

Orchestra New England BaroqueFest

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

SUNDAY, MARCH 8

Jungle Book

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

Women in the American Revolution: Putting the HER in Heroics

: 2 to 3 p.m. Masonicare at Chester Village, 317 W. Main St. Hosted by the Chester Public Library. For info or to register, contact the library at 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org, or visit chesterctlibrary.com.

A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music

: 2 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Performance by the Sultana duo featuring songs and stories from the origins of blues, rock, and country music. Sponsored by the David J. Hughes Memorial Fund. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Healing and Hope: Music and Poetry for International Women’s Day

: 2 to 4 p.m. Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, 55 E. Kings Hwy., Chester. Features Grammy Award-winning flutist Rhonda Larson and poet Jude Rittenhouse. Admission: $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers. Payable at the door. For info or to register, call 860-526-8920 or email office@cbsrz.org.

MONDAY, MARCH 9

Auditions for

The Secret Garden

: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Tories, Spies, and Traitors: America 250 Program

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Explores loyalty and division in Connecticut during the American Revolution. Presented by the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Author Event: Mark Oppenheimer

BashiBazouk

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

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

The Secret Garden

Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Students entering grades 1 through 12 are encouraged to audition. No advance preparation is necessary, but preregistration is required. The adaptation of will be presented by the Missoula Children’s Theatre on Saturday, March 14, at 1 p.m. For info or to preregister, call 860-510-0473 or visit thekate.org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 10

Environmental and Multispecies Justice

: 10 a.m.

Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Presented by Ryan Darr, assistant professor of religion, ethics, and environment at the Yale Divinity School. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for

: 6 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Judy

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

: 6 to 8 p.m. The Morgan School, 71 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Cost: $32 class fee plus a $20 materials fee (exact change requested). Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Aging in Place: How to Protect Assets and Stay at Home Candle Making Workshop: Iced Coffee Soy and Gel Candle Pajama Storytime

: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Family program featuring stories by Dr. Seuss with interactive elements. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11

: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. St. George Church Hall, 33 Whitfield St., Guilford. Hosted by the Guilford Garden Club. Presented by club member Gretchen Biemsderfer. Free and open to the public. For info, visit guilfordgardenclub.org/events.

An Introduction to Apiculture (Beekeeping) Adult Board Game Fun

: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Drop-in program featuring a selection of board games, including Parcheesi, Scrabble, and Checkers. Free and open to the public. No registration required. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Unlock the Hidden Power of Dreams with Sleep Expert Michelle Carr

: 2 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 860-7671560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

Unlock the Hidden Power of Dreams with Sleep Expert Michelle Carr

Blume: A Life Nightmare Obscura Nightmare Obscura

: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the Henry Carter Hull Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/hchlibrary.

See page 25

Mercy by the Sea Launches Catherine McAuley Spirit Award

Mercy by the Sea Retreat and Conference Center (MBTS) announces that nominations are now open for the inaugural Catherine McAuley Spirit Award. The award will be presented during a celebration of mercy and service benefit event at Mercy by the Sea, 167 Neck Road, Madison, on Oct. 4 at 5:30 p.m.

This award celebrates an individual who embodies the enduring values of Catherine McAuley—mercy, hospitality, compassion, justice, and service, motivated by faith and a deep commitment to the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy: immigration, racism, women, care for Earth, and nonviolence.

Dublin-born Catherine McAuley (1778-1841) was the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy. McAuley recognized the needs of people marginalized by the unjust social attitudes of her time. She responded by founding a House of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland, providing education and care to women and children facing poverty, exploitation and the risk of homelessness.

Continued from page 24

A rendering inspired by descriptions of Catherine McAuley. Painting by Sister Marie Henderson. For more information, visit mcauleyimages.com.

Social pressures led McAuley and those working with her to formalize their work with a religious order. On Dec. 12, 1831, through McAuley’s efforts, the Sisters of Mercy were founded. Honoring a recipient with the Catherine McAuley Spirit Award at Mercy by the Sea’s benefit

:

4:30 p.m. to close. Red House, 158 Main St. Dine in or take out to support the Deep River Cares Fund, a local nonprofit that provides grants to community organizations in Deep River. A portion of sales will benefit the fund. Reservations suggested. For info, call 860-5262600.

: 5 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Educators from the Amphibian Reptile Center present a program for ages 5 to 12 exploring axolotls’ origins in Aztec culture, scientific research, care as pets, and unique breathing abilities. Free and open to the public. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. :

5:30 to 8 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Cost: $45 class fee plus a $15 materials fee (exact change requested). Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old

About Mercy by the Sea Retreat and Conference Center

A retreat and conference center, Mercy by the Sea is set on 33 scenic acres along the shore of Long Island Sound. MBTS offers programming and a seaside setting that foster a contemplative spirit, opportunity for personal growth, and professional development within an inclusive and welcoming environment. The rich ecosystems and abundant wildlife at MBTS provide opportunities for reflection and connection with the natural world. Guests are invited into a spirit of hospitality and spaciousness that supports a meaningful relationship with the sacred, self, others, and creation.

Contact Information Address: 167 Neck Road, Madison, CT 06443

Phone: 203-245-0401

event captures the heart of McAuley’s enduring legacy: merciful service rooted in contemplation. Through this inaugural event, attendees will gather not only to honor one life rooted in mercy, but also to support Mercy by the Sea as a place of rest, reflection,

and renewal for those who serve.

For more information or to nominate a candidate for the Catherine McAuley Spirit Award, click on the link for the award celebration at mercybythesea.org.

Nominations close on Friday, April 10.

Saybrook. Part of the Acoustic Artist Storyteller Series, featuring stories, songs, and visuals focused on the creation of an independent album. Free. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Author Event: Joan Lunden

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

Parent Information Series: Transition Topics with Muncie Kardos

Web: mercybythesea.org Facebook: facebook.com/ MercyCenterMadison Instagram: @mercy.by.the.sea

Middlesex Ave. Presentation with Russell Blair, Director of Education and Communications for the Freedom of Information Commission. RSVP required. For info or to RSVP, contact Town Clerk Kate Hair at townclerk@chesterct.org or call 860-526-0013 x 510.

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.

: 6 p.m. Valley Regional Library, 54 West Main St., Deep River. Presentation for parents of Chester, Deep River, Essex, and Region 4 students. Refreshments provided. For info, email .

Understanding Medicare

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Covers Medicare parts A, B, C, and D; expected cost of specific services; prescription drug coverage; and enrollment information. Cost: $10. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Freedom of Information Commission Education Session Life Beyond the Script

: 6 p.m. Chester Town Hall Community Room, 203

THURSDAY, MARCH 12

Senior Series 3: Selling Your Home with Confidence and Peace of Mind

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

Continued from page 25

ONGOING EVENTS

Art Exhibits

Andrews Memorial Town Hall

: 54 E.

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

Clinton Art Society 2026 Winter Juried Member Artists Show

: Runs through April 23.

Artevistica Gallery

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

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

s: Runs through April 30.

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) West Gallery

: 360 State St., New Haven: For info, contact 203-433-4071 or baca06405@gmail.com, or visit branfordarts.org/events.

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

: Runs through March 31.

Essex Library

New Works

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

Guilford Art Center

Local Color 7: Circular Thinking

: 411 Church St.: For info, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org. : Runs through Feb. 28.

Guilford Free Library

: 67 Park St. For info, contact 203-535-9442 or EileenClarkArt@gmail.com.

All Mixed Up

: Runs through Feb. 27.

Madison Center for History and Culture:

Lee’s Academy, 14 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison: For info, call MHS at 203245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org.

This Side of Paradise

: Runs through March.

Lyman Allyn Art Museum

: 625 Williams St., New London. For info, call 860-4432545 or visit lymanallyn.org.

DOROTHEA LANGE: Life Work

: Through May 3.

Keyes Gallery at Willoughby Library Hosts Illuminations

Photography and the Painted Image

: Through April 12.

Facades of New London: Photographs by G. Roger Clements

: Through April 12.

Lyme Art Association

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

This Land is Your Land

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Animal Kingdom

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Stillness: A Still Life

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Abstracted

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Faces & Figures

: Runs Feb. 27 through April 10.

Madison Center for History and Culture

: Lee’s Academy, 14 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison: For info, call MHS at 203245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org.

This Side of Paradise

: Runs through March.

New Haven Museum

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

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

: Runs through February.

Pronounced Ah-Beetz

: Runs through October 2027.

Spectrum Art Gallery

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

Signs of Love:

Runs through March 14.

Golden Threads: Runs March 27 through May 9.

The Keyes Gallery at the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library will host artists Laurie Flaherty and Dorie Petrochko for the exhibit titled, . The exhibition runs Friday, March 13, to Monday, April 6. An opening reception with the artists will take place on Sunday, March 15, from 3 to 5 p.m.

Illuminations

This show explores the beauty of nature as seen through the eyes of two painters.

Laurie Flaherty is a Guilford artist known for her vibrant oil and gouache paintings of plants and birds. Her Flora and Fauna series focuses on complex interactions and patterning. She is also working simultaneously on a series of pollinator and native plants that spotlight rewilding and biodiversity. Her paintings are found in public collections nationally and private collections worldwide. Flaherty has shown her work locally with Susan Powell Fine Art in Madison, Connecticut, and more broadly with Kathryn Markel Fine Arts in New York and Soprafina Gallery in Boston.

Flaherty says of her paintings, “My work finds its source in my immersion in the natural world. Elements from the natural world become metaphors for the inner world of thought and emotion. It is my goal to create paintings that show the brilliance of nature while revealing the human experience.”

Dorie Petrochko is a watercolor, gouache, and oil painter who resides in Oxford, Connecticut. She travels and paints birds and wildlife to benefit species conservation and preservation. She is

committed to using her creative expertise to educate people about climate change and the need to protect endangered species. She spends hours observing birds to accurately portray their movement, color, and detail. Petrochko has shown her work throughout New England, including the Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven; the Roger Tory Peterson Institute in Jamestown, New York; and at the Salmagundi Club in New York.

Petrochko says, “I am drawn to subtle movements, textures of plumage, and dramatic contrasts when I am out in the field sketching or taking photographs. Having that emotional connection with birds is what catalyzes my painting process.”

For more information, visit www.wwml.org/gallery.

See page 27

Ivoryton Library Transforms to “Wonderland Conundrum” Escape Room

The Ivoryton Library announces that tickets are now on sale for its fourth escape room fundraiser, the “Wonderland Conundrum.”

This exciting group experience invites teams to tumble down the Rabbit Hole for a whimsical event supporting the library’s ongoing programs and services. The event will run from Friday, March 13, through Sunday, March 29.

The Wonderland Conundrum Escape Room offers a literary twist inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories. The challenge is clear but daunting: Teams must work together to capture the elusive White Rabbit and escape the rabbit hole before time runs out. The stakes are high, as failing to solve the puzzles in time risks the wrath of the Queen of Hearts and her infamous decree, “Off with their heads!”

Designed for groups of friends, families, or colleagues, the experience accommodates teams of three to six people. Each group has exactly one hour to decipher clues, solve intricate puzzles, and unlock the secrets necessary to make their escape. It is an opportunity for participants to test their wits, teamwork, and problem-solving skills and have fun.

Proceeds benefit the Ivoryton Library. These funds are vital for maintaining the library’s wide range of offerings. By participating, community members are not only getting an hour of entertainment but also investing in the future of a cherished local institution.

Space is limited for this special twoweek engagement, so early reservations

are highly recommended. Teams of three to six can secure their spot and view available time slots by clicking on the link for the event at ivorytonlibrary.org. The cost per team is $180, with a special weekday discount available for sessions on Monday through Thursday at 2 or 4 p.m.

About Ivoryton Library

The Ivoryton Library serves as a cornerstone of the Ivoryton community, providing access to information, literature, and educational resources for residents of all ages. Dedicated to fostering a love of reading and lifelong learning, the library offers a welcoming space for connection and discovery. Through various fundraising initiatives and community support, the Ivoryton Library continues to expand its services and remain a vital hub for culture and education in the region.

Continued from page 26

Susan Powell Fine Art

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

Valentine Gems

104 Mill Rd., Guilford. No cover. For info, call 203-214-5874.

Mondays: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Big Swing Band with Tuxedo Junction.

: Runs through Feb. 28. :

Valentine H. Zahn Community Gallery

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

Visual Dialogues

: Runs through Feb. 27.

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

Tuesdays: 6 to 8 p.m. Ramblin’ Dan Stevens.

Last Friday: 7 to 9 p.m. Teen Open Mic. Sweet Saturday Nights: 7 to 9 p.m. Various performers.

Under Observation New Work by 21 River Valley Artists

: : Runs March 9 through May 15.

Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library

:

146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

Illuminations

: Runs March 13 through April 6.

Yale University Art Gallery

: 1111 Chapel St., New Haven. For info, call 203-4320600 or visit artgallery.yale.edu/visit/exhibitions.

American Impressionism

: Runs through June 14.

John Coplans

: 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, visit watersedgeresortandspa.com. Fridays and Saturdays: 9 p.m. to midnight. Various performers.

2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-395-2000. Thursdays and Sundays: 6 to 9 p.m. Live music.

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

Fridays and Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Live music.

Second and fourth Thursdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Open mic.

36

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

August Sander’s People of the 20th Century

: Runs through June 14. :

Runs Feb. 27 through June 28.

Jes Fan: Unbounded

: Runs Feb. 27 through June 28.

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

:

Runs through Oct. 11.

Music

Bill’s Seafood Restaurant:

Rte. 1, Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-7224 or visit BillsSeafood.com.

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

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

Second and fourth Fridays: 6:30 to 9 p.m. The Modeans.

Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Various performers.

Sundays: 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Various per-formers.

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

17

River St., East Haven. Cost: $5 suggested donation. For info, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

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

Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. For info, call 203-350-0014 or visit thewharfmadison.com.

Fridays: 8 to 10 p.m. Acoustic Fridays. Various performers.

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.

EHS Opens 2026 Art on the Pratt House Lawn Series

Essex Historical Society (EHS) announces an open call for sculptors to participate in its 2026 Art on the Pratt House Lawn exhibition series.

The upcoming season coincides with the America 250 celebrations and will bring increased visibility to the historic Pratt House through expanded public programming.

Located at 19 West Avenue in Essex, Pratt House sits on a main thoroughfare leading into Essex Village and experiences significant vehicle and pedestrian traffic throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Art on the Pratt House Lawn connects contemporary public art with this historic house museum, offering local and regional artists a highly visible outdoor exhibition opportunity while enhancing the historic landscape.

Participation is free. For the 2026 season, EHS will select four artists, each invited to display up to three sculptures for a twomonth exhibition period between early April and late November.

The 2026 exhibition schedule is as follows: April 1 to May 31 (filled), June 1 to July 31 (open), Aug. 1 to Sept. 30 (open), and Oct. 1 to Nov. 30 (open).

Artwork Requirements

All submitted works must meet the following requirements: They must be securable to the ground with anchors in dirt/grass or a weighted base, must be suitable for outdoor display and weather conditions, must be approved by the EHS selection committee, and must be appropriate for a broad public audience, including youth program participants.

Artists are responsible for transporting, installing, and removing their work. While EHS may assist with installation when feasible, it cannot provide transportation or major installation manpower. All sculptures will be displayed on the west front lawn

of the Pratt House; works may not be installed directly in front of the house.

Throughout the exhibition period, EHS will promote participating artists via its website and social media channels, including Facebook and Instagram. An onsite QR code will allow visitors to learn more about each artist and inquire about purchasing the work.

Submission Information

Interested artists should submit images of the proposed work(s), or samples if proposing a new piece to EHS Outreach Coordinator Kate Savage at membership@essexhistory.org, for the selection committee to review.

Selected artists will receive a formal artist agreement for review and signature prior to final confirmation. Confirmed participants will also be asked to provide a brief artist bio and information about the displayed work(s) for inclusion on the EHS website.

The Essex Historical Society looks forward to another dynamic season of public art at the Pratt House. For more information, visit essexhistory.org

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

: Amir

Cekic to Peter A. Sagnella, $225,000 on Feb. 5

: Judith Bellizzi to David Granata, $325,000 on Feb. 6

: Roger L. Gabriel to Neil Clyne and Victoria Raffone, $295,000 on Feb. 5

: Jamie Evans and Us Bank TNa to Rcaf Acquisition T and U South Bank TNa Tr, $251,141 on Feb. 5

: Monica Lima to Veronica Redente, $332,000 on Feb. 3 :

Garrett Graham to Nicole Barlow and Peter Leonetti, $299,000 on Feb. 3

Anganie T. Maharaj to Shelly Evia, $330,000 on Feb. 3

: Lisa E.

Dewitt and Edwin A. Smith to Emily Shee, $267,000 on Feb. 4

Lillian Handy to Trong and Tung Luong, $58,000 on Feb. 6

Ryan P. White to Elaine and Elizabeth Khu, $75,000 on Feb. 6

Hill Road

: Cherylyn Patrylak to 25 Rose Hl Road Branford LL, $340,000 on Feb. 6

Valley Road 65 Waverly Park Road

: Estate of Shuman B. Shamas and Amar J. Shamas to Amar J. Shamas, $325,000 on Feb. 3 95 Monticello Drive Unit

CHESTER

19 Castle View Drive

: Kenneth P. Kusmierski to P Douglas LLC, $214,000 on Feb. 6

CLINTON

: V Estate of William C. Wilgen and William C. Brierley to 51 Valley Road Assoc LLC, $2,615,000 on Feb. 2

: Monica L. Santos and Peter Vandersloot to Andrew C. and Pamela C. Gust, $1,400,000 on Feb. 3

: Susan C Barber T and Walter L. Barber to Raymond Quick, $10,000 on Feb. 3

248 Cow Hill Road

: Miner T. Vincent to Christian Zabala, $430,000 on Feb. 2

41 Grove Street

: Robert J. Hurle to Jennifer Ciesla, $428,000 on Feb. 4

: Stephen T. Giangrande to Anna E. Joseph and Brendan M. Eaton, $419,588 on Feb. 5

: Thomas A. Massini to Gregory St Pierre, $329,380 on Feb. 2

Real Estate Transactions

GUILFORD

: Clyne T and Barry

F. Clyne to Marjorie J. Maguire and Ashley A. Stoup, $625,000 on Feb. 6

: Jason A.

Deshefy to Luke Thomas and Melissa Kelsey, $449,000 on Feb. 4

: Edward A.

and Burr B. Jennings to Mama B & Ncb Vent LLC, $625,000 on Feb. 5

: Gc3 Capital Corp LLC to Taras and Ganna Voichak, $447,900 on Feb. 6

: Justin and Kelley

Gargano to Julie M. Becker and Alexander J. Moses, $820,000 on Feb. 4

: Donald Ifkovic Jr Rlty LL to Melissa J. and Gregg Crerar, $1,425,000 on Feb. 2

: Asher and Sarah Raynold to Mehdi T. Hossain, $503,000 on Feb. 2

: Benjamin P. Foley to Joseph Light, $855,000 on Feb. 5

Longview Terrace Unit 13

:

Christopher E. and Kathryn T. Burt to Mary K. Rynne, $779,000 on Feb. 4

: Martha P. and Christian A. Bardin to Peter and Kelly Mcgee, $4,300,000 on Feb. 4

OLD SAYBROOK

: Robert Korpak to Kelly M Hennigan Real Estate Trust and Kelly M. Hennigan, $840,000 on Feb. 2 : Uprise Dev & Const LLC to Kristin M. Shubert and Rhea O. Emmanuel, $570,000 on Feb. 5

: Sai

Property LLC to Attic LLC, $278,500 on Feb. 2

: Ellen V.

Anderson to John W. Scudder, $895,000 on Feb. 5

: Steven L. St

Onge to Dennis and Wendy Cole, $185,000 on Feb. 5

:

Nicholas Morizio to Shell Cottage LLC, $1,825,000 on Feb. 2

: Margaret A.

Weeks to Miranda Rumpf and Jacquelyn Changnon, $693,000 on Feb. 2

: Matthew and Lauren E. Lariviere to Ryan and Mackenzie Albrecht, $733,000 on Feb. 4

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

BEACH