April 2, 2026
.com
Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXIX Iss. 14
SummerFest in Jeopardy After Chamber Closure By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer
The annual Clinton SummerFest is in significant jeopardy of not being held this year following the closure of the Clinton Chamber of Commerce. Town leaders say only a substantial community volunteer effort could save the event.
At a March 18 Town Council meeting, council member Carrie Allen (D) asked about the status of the fireworks festival held each August. Town Manager Michelle Benivegna told the council it was not feasible for the town to organize the 2026 SummerFest. Since its debut in 2015, Clinton’s SummerFest has become a beloved local event. The townwide, all-day celebration is held the
Saturday before Labor Day and culminates with a fireworks display. The event was traditionally organized by the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, but in July 2025 the chamber announced it would indefinitely suspend operations following the unexpected resignation of its former See SummerFest page 11
A Novel Lunch
Cameron Evangelisti has weathered the storm.....................2
Honored Three Huskies have earned all-conference accolades............20
Gianni Gaetano, left, and Olivia Pietrogallo enjoy food from Cafe Nola while seated among shelves of used books at Henry on Main library in Clinton on March 30. The shared space, where every book is priced at $1, draws diners from the neighboring businesses.
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Harbor News
Remembering the Revolution A multi-part series celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence kicks off......................................22
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