The Sound 03-12-26

March 12, 2026

Branford, North Branford & Northford

Vol. XXX Iss. 11

BHS Dives ‘Under the Sea’ With Spring Musical

By Pam Young

Special to The Sound

Mermaids, sea creatures, and a classic Disney villain are taking over the stage at Branford High School next week when the school lifts the curtain on its spring musical, The Little Mermaid.

The school’s performing arts program will present Disney’s Wednesday, March 18 through Sunday, March 22, bringing a colorful underwater world to the stage with a cast of 38 students and a large crew working behind the scenes.

The Little Mermaid

For Director Colin Sheehan, Musical Director Mike Martone Jr., and Choreogra-

pher Paola Rarick, the show marks the ninth musical they have produced together.

“It’s special because Mike and I grew up in this program and performed together,” Sheehan said.

Over the years, the trio has also worked See BHS Dives page 6

Julianne Henkel, as Ariel, holds Nate Frohlich as Prince Eric while Becca Law, as Flounder, looks on during rehearsal for Branford High School’s production of Performances run March 18–22 at Branford High School.

The Little Mermaid

Looking Ahead to States

The state tournament looms ahead for the T-birds after a loss in states..........................................20

Jacquelynn Giammattei: Helping Others Find Their Voice

By Pam Young

When Jacquelynn “Jaci” Giammattei stands in front of a choir, her goal isn’t to create the next superstar.

“My philosophy of teaching has always been not to make the next superstar, singer, or piano player, but to instill confidence and passion into music,” Jaci says. “I want people I teach to look at music as a daily part of their life and appreciate it.”

She also brings that approach to her work as choral director at North Branford Intermediate School (NBIS) and the Branford Chorale, a non-audition community choir founded in 1975 that brings together singers from across the shoreline. Jaci has led the ensemble for the past two years, guiding about 55 to 60 members ranging in age from 30 to 92 as it approaches its 50th season.

In rehearsals, she focuses on creating a comfortable environment where singers feel supported.

“I want people to enjoy being with me,” Jaci says. “I use humor and choose fun songs to sing. I help them find the fun in performing, making them feel comfortable.”

Person of the Week

Creating that atmosphere is key to helping students and singers develop confidence.

“I never want anyone to not want to sing or perform in front of me,” Jaci says.

While Branford Chorale has a long history in town, Jaci says she hopes to see it become even more visible in the community.

“I would love to see it become more prominent in the town,” Jaci says. “I feel like the town doesn’t really know who we are.”

The group is open to anyone age 18 and older who enjoys singing, and Jaci says one of her goals is to make the chorale welcoming to singers of all backgrounds and experience levels.

“It is accepting of everyone who lives in and around the area to come and enjoy

singing with us,” Jaci says. “The group is for anyone wanting to make music and who enjoys singing.”

As the ensemble moves toward its milestone season, Jaci says she hopes the group will continue to grow.

“It would be wonderful to have 100 singers of all ages and abilities,” she says.

Each year, the chorale presents a spring concert for the community, and this year’s performance will be “A Snapshot of America,” scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Walsh Intermediate School.

“It will be my fourth concert,” Jaci says. “I wanted to do a snapshot of America where every piece is American in some way.”

Her own connection to music began long before she ever stood in front of a choir.

The West Haven native began dancing at age five at Top Hat Dance Academy. By sixth grade she was singing in the choir, where she met one of her biggest mentors, Lou Negri, who is well known in West Haven.

One early experience helped solidify her connection to music.

In elementary school, a teacher planned

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Branford Awarded $69K for Wastewater Plant Resilience Study

By Lee Howard

Special to The Sound

The Town of Branford will receive $69,000 from the Long Island Sound Resilience Planning Support program to support resiliency planning at its Water Pollution Control Facility.

The announcement was made March 3 by the Long Island Sound Partnership, Connecticut Sea Grant, and New York Sea Grant, with funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“We are grateful to Connecticut Sea Grant for our recent grant award to assist with the development of conceptual plans for protecting the Wastewater Pollution Control Facility,” Branford First Selectman Joshua Brooks said in a statement. “The findings of the study will help form the basis of an appropriate engineering project that will improve the resilience of the existing WPCF to sea level rise, storm surge, and intense storm flooding.”

Design work will be completed by Tighe & Bond, which will develop alternatives to reduce flood risks at the town’s Water Pollution Control Facility. The facility treats 3.5 million gallons of sewage each day from its location on the Branford River, which flows into Long Island Sound.

With coastal flooding always a possibility and sea level rise predicted, the plant is considered vulnerable. A plan will be developed to evaluate options, including nature-based and hybrid strategies to enhance floodproofing. The plan will also include cost considerations and other fac-

tors that should be considered in a preliminary project design.

“This grant award will help our community continue to take critical steps toward achieving resilience and sustainability goals to protect our community and Long Island Sound,” Brooks said.

Branford was one of two towns added to a list of 14 already awarded funds in November for resiliency programs. The other town, Old Lyme, will work with SLR Consultants to develop its own Strategic Resiliency Action Plan.

“This will build on a 2021 Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan with new findings that assess risks from sea level rise, saltwater intrusion, coastal and riverine flooding, drought, wildfires, and impacts to roads, public utilities, and neighborhoods. The new plan will prioritize actions related to land use that can help reduce impacts,” according to a press release from Connecticut Sea Grant.

The two additional awards mean that more than $1 million will be provided for seven Connecticut and nine New York projects in the second round of the Long Island Sound Resilience Planning Support program.

“With this support we will be able to begin a comprehensive assessment of the serious threats that our town faces from hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters and formulate and prioritize strategies for protecting our most vulnerable citizens, our essential infrastructure,

See Branford Awarded page 5

$6 Million Industrial Facility

Sold in Branford

From a Press Release

O,R&L Commercial announced the sale of a 55,274-square-foot industrial building at 45 Northeast Industrial Road in Branford for $6 million.

Will Braun of O,R&L’s Branford office represented the owner, Benerofe Branford Three, LLC and also procured the buyer, 5 Spring Hill Rd, LLC. About 30,000 square feet was vacant at the time of the sale.

Branford’s strategic location makes it attractive to investors and owner-users seeking well-positioned distribution and

manufacturing space along the Connecticut shoreline. O,R&L Commercial, LLC with offices in Branford and Rocky Hill represents landlords, tenants, sellers and buyers in the office, retail, medical, multifamily, investment and industrial markets.

For additional information on this sale or other transactions contact O,R&L Commercial at 203-488-1555 and for more information regarding O,R&L Commercial, visit online at www.orl commercial.com.

Branford Awarded $69K for Wastewater Plant Resilience Study

Continued from page 4

and our environment,” said Jim Lampos, Old Lyme selectman, in a release.

Connecticut Sea Grant Director Sylvain De Guise said continued funding for resiliency planning is needed along the coast to help communities access technical expertise.

“I am glad that through our partnership with EPA we can support projects that are actionable and help communities achieve their own priority goals to increase community resilience,” De Guise said in a release. “Such funds are not broadly available, but address immediate needs.”

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BHS Dives ‘Under the Sea’ With Spring Musical

Aladdin

Finding Nemo Alice in Wonderland

together on youth theater programs and summer camps that draw more than 100 children from multiple towns. While those programs have staged Disney-themed productions before — including , , and — this is the first time the team has tackled a full Disney musical at the high school level.

“When we were thinking about what show to do this year, we thought because of the world today and what is going on, we as creatives needed this to get through,” Sheehan said. “It is bright and light. We never thought we would do a Disney show this early. It feels like the country and world needs it to escape from reality and engage in amazing Disney storytelling.”

Selecting a musical each year also means finding a show that fits the students who will perform it.

“We always have to think about what we have for the student population and what we can manage,” Martone said. “We shoot for a high-quality production every year that’s acted, performed, and sung well. We have to consider the typical actors

and what we have. It is not like adults.”

For this year’s cast, that meant stepping into a world of mermaids, sea creatures, and larger-than-life characters.

Junior Halle Peterson, who plays the villain Ursula, said the role has been especially exciting.

“I absolutely love my role,” Peterson said. “I get to play the Disney villain I grew up watching.”

Peterson said one of the most rewarding parts of the production has been watching the cast come together during rehearsals.

“In these short three months, we’ve all banded together as a community to build this from the ground up,” she said. “I’m excited for everyone to see the show.”

Junior Nate Frohlich, who plays Prince Eric, said that sense of camaraderie has helped shape the rehearsal process.

“This is my third musical with this group of directors,” Frohlich said. “The cast as a whole is bonding, and we’re a tight, close-knit group, which helps boost rehearsals.”

For the directing team, that energy is exactly what makes a show like The Little

Jacquelynn Giammattei: Helping Others Find Their Voice

Continued from page 2

Cats

a musical revue of and needed someone to sing the song “Memory.” Jaci wanted the role but worried she would not be good enough.

“I went home crying because I was not going to be good enough to get it, but I really wanted the part,” Jaci says.

Her mother encouraged her to sing from her heart.

“She pressed on my belly and the sound that came out of me was surprising and beautiful,” Jaci says. “I thought, wow, maybe I can do this.”

Jaci auditioned and earned the role in the fifth-grade production.

“Ever since then, music and dance have been the primary things in my life,” Jaci says. “Music has gotten me through every time in my life.”

As she grew older, Jaci imagined a future performing on stage.

“When I was graduating high school and deciding what my life was going to look like, I wanted to be a full-time dancer and stage performer in New York City,” Jaci says. “It was a big, challenging dream.”

Instead, she chose a path that allowed her to stay connected to the arts while working with students.

“I decided to get into music education as a source of income and because I wanted to be involved with the arts and theater programs,” Jaci says. “I also wanted to teach students and found my passion in this.”

Jaci attended Western Connecticut State University, where she studied music education, and later earned a master’s degree in special education from Southern Connecticut State University.

While teaching in New Haven, she also worked with programs connected to the Yale School of Music and participated in the Music in the Schools initiative for more than a decade.

“It helped students see that music is multi-faceted,” Jaci says.

Alongside her work in schools, Jaci built a space where students could develop their musical skills one-on-one, opening her private teaching studio, Studio G, in 2012. She offers lessons in voice, piano, and band instruments.

“We named it Studio G because of our last name,” Jaci says.

For a time the studio also offered drum lessons, but voice and piano have become its primary focus. Jaci now teaches about 15 to 20 students each year.

“I have a waiting list of students trying to get in,” Jaci says. “I have referred them out to teachers who would be a great fit for them.”

Studio G hosts two recitals each year at the Blackstone Memorial Library, giving students a chance to perform in front of family and the community.

Some of her students will also perform at the Piano Festival on Saturday, March 14, in New London.

In addition to teaching and running her studio, Jaci has remained active in music education initiatives across the state. She worked with the Connecticut Association of Schools as part of a small team of educators developing model lessons aligned with the National Core Arts Standards, which Connecticut adopted in 2016.

“All districts were challenged with writing curriculum, creating model units, scoring them, having rubrics for them to score and publish them,” Jaci says. “There were eight to 10 of us, a team of teachers from all facets.”

Jaci also supports music and theater productions locally. She serves as sound engineer for North Branford High School and is assisting with the school’s production of , running Thursday, March 12 through Saturday, March 14.

Little Shop of Horrors

Jaci says she takes particular pride in the students she works with at North Branford Intermediate School (NBIS) and through her studio.

“I am so proud of the chorale and of the students at NBIS,” Jaci says.

Her students at NBIS will also be performing in Killingworth at the Connecticut Music Educator Association Southern Region Festival.

For Jaci, music remains a constant presence in nearly every part of her life.

“Music is always in my life and who I am,” Jaci says. “I am always doing something musical.”

American Legion Post 83, 243 North Main Street, Branford, holds its monthly meetings at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Members and all interested veterans are invited. For more information, call 203-315-0068.

BHS Dives ‘Under the Sea’ With Spring Musical

Continued from page 6

Mermaid

work.

“With shows they’ve been doing, they are used to playing human characters,” Sheehan said. “Now, they are under the sea characters and things that aren’t necessarily real. They get to take their characters further.”

At first, Sheehan said, the creative team wasn’t sure how the students would respond to the larger-than-life roles.

“But about three months into the process, the kids have really fallen in love with it and they’re committing to the bit, as we like to say,” he said. “You can’t take yourself so seriously on stage when you’re playing mermaids, seagulls, crabs, and sea creatures.”

That playful energy has carried into rehearsals, which began Jan. 4 and take place daily after school, along with extended Saturday practices.

One tradition the cast looks forward to each season is what the program calls “Super Saturday,” a longer rehearsal day where students run scenes, work on cos-

Hatha Yoga Series

A beginner/intermediate-level hatha yoga series runs Tuesdays from 5:45 to 7 p.m. through Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Trinity Church Hall, 1009 Main Street, Branford. The sessions are led by certified yoga instructor Gina Macdonald-Page. The cost is $10 per session, with drop-in participants welcome. Proceeds benefit the Branford Community Dining Room. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat. For more information, call or text Gina at 203-710-6665.

Free Radon Kits

The East Shore District Health Department (ESDHD) is offering free radon air test kits to residents of East Haven, Branford, and North Branford. The free test kits will be available on a firstcome, first-served basis at the East Shore Health District, 688 East Main Street, Branford. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The kits are provided through the Connecticut Department of Public Health Radon Program. Supplies are limited; only one kit per household. For more information, email ESHD at info@esdhd.org.

tumes, play games, and spend time bonding as a group.

“It’s the thing they look forward to most,” Rarick said.

The day often includes meals and downtime between rehearsals, giving students time to relax and get to know each other outside of the structured rehearsal schedule.

“After long rehearsals, you find that the cast gets closer,” Sheehan said. “From Super Saturday on, they lock into high gear.”

Choreography has also pushed the cast in new directions this year.

Rarick said the production includes tap dance along with Caribbean-inspired movement, something new for many of the students.

“I don’t have a big pool of dancers in the cast,” she said. “I have maybe three people with any type of dance training at all.”

Even so, she said the students have embraced the challenge.

“I would urge the audience to watch the tappers. They aren’t doing shuffle step,” Rarick said. “They’re doing more advanced

NOTICE OF DECISION

tap steps with very little time to learn it. They have put their minds to it.”

Behind the scenes, dozens of students are also helping bring the show’s colorful underwater world to life.

The production features multiple set pieces representing locations both above and below the sea, including underwater scenes and the royal palace. Much of the set painting has been completed by students.

“The design work is really cool,” Martone said. “It’s also cumbersome because the set has a lot of pieces. The set crew has a lot of work to do.”

Costumes for the show are being rented as part of a professional package because of the scale and complexity of the production.

“Because we’re over the top, we rented a professional costume package,” Sheehan said. “Students will help with alterations for proper fitting.”

Parent volunteers and students also assist backstage with quick costume changes during the performance.

Even with the complexity of the produc-

Notice is given of the following decisions made by the Town of Branford’s Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission at the Regular Meeting held on Thursday February 26, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.

The following application was approved with conditions:

a) BRIW#25.10.01 (OpenGov BRIW-7) | Chestnut St Bridge; Bridge #014001 & 200 Chestnut St | replacement of Chestnut St Bridge over Branford Supply Pond

The following applications were approved with conditions administratively by a Duly Authorized Agent:

a) IW-26-4 | 155 Ivy St Unit 1 | installation of manufactured home and associated driveway and walkway

Peter Bassermann, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF BRANFORD

The Planning & Zoning Commission of the Town of Branford, Connecticut hereby gives notice of Public Hearings to be held on Thursday March 19, 2026 at 7:00 PM by remote technology to consider the applications listed below. Information regarding how to participate in the Public Hearings will be provided on the Commission’s meeting Agenda that will be posted on the Town’s website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

1. Application PZ # 26-6 Special Exception for an Oversized Accessory Structure located at 19 Queach Road. Mary Beth Tucker-Applicant & Owner.

2. Application PZ # 26-1 4 Lot Resubdivision located at 76-82 Totoket Road (modification of prior approval). Vincenso A. Capasso (Trustee)-Applicant & Owner.

At said hearings all persons will have the right to be heard. Copies are on file in the Planning & Zoning Commissions office at the Planning & Zoning Department (1019 Main Street) Branford, CT 06405. Written communications may be sent to the above address or to: PlanningandZoning@branford-ct.gov.

BRANFORD PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION

C. ANDRES, CHAIRPERSON

tion, the directing team said watching the students bring the show together is the most rewarding part of the process.

“It’s not about the paycheck,” the team said. “We are proud of our kids and what they do. It’s not easy. There is a lot of hard work going on.”

Sheehan said productions like the school musical often serve as an introduction to theater for younger students in the audience.

“Our job is to tell a story that makes sense for people,” he said, “and as educators to inspire students in art programs to want to get on stage or work backstage because they saw this show.”

The Little Mermaid

Performances of will take place at Branford High School Wednesday, March 18 through Sunday, March 22.

Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m., with matinees at 1 p.m.

Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for children and seniors, plus fees. For more information or tickets, visit bhs performingarts.org or email BHSBox Office@branfordschools.org.

Notice of Public Hearing

The North Branford Town Council will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in the North Branford Town Hall Council Chambers.

The purpose of the Public Hearing will be to hear comments on Proposed Ordinance #2025-2, which amends Chapter 182 of the Code of the Town of North Branford entitled “Peddling, Hawking and Vending” as summarized below.

The proposed revisions to the Peddling, Hawking and Vending Ordinance define mobile food vendor; and exempt mobile food vendors and events hosted by religious and nonprofit groups from the requirements of the ordinance.

A copy of the proposed ordinance is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk and posted on the town website.

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

Lisa A. Valenti, MMC North Branford Town Clerk

Email public comments to public-comments@townofnorthbranfordct.com

LEGAL NOTICE

NORTH BRANFORD ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Notice is hereby given that the North Branford Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2026 at the North Branford Town Hall, 909 Foxon Road, North Branford, CT to consider the following:

A. Appl. #2025-9, 1821 Middletown Avenue – requesting variances to split existing lot into two (2) lots with variances for: square footage for lot size; lot square less than 150’; width along building line less than 150’; and street frontage less than 125’ for each parcel. Owner: George & Kathryn Gallager/Applicant: James Pretti, PE, LS, Criscuolo Engineering LLC

B. Appl. #2026-1, 175 Twin Lakes Road – requesting variances to reduce the rear property line to 25.7 feet where 30 feet is required; and increase lot coverage to 21.2% where 15% is allowed, to build a new house on the lot. Owner/Applicant: Barbara Shulman

At this hearing, all interested parties may appear and be heard and written communications will be received. Copies of the applications are on file for public inspection in the Town Hall Planning Department or on the Town’s website www.northbranfordct.gov.

Steve Kenning, Chairman

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF BRANFORD BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT 06405 Legal Notice

The Branford Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on Tuesday March 17, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom technology to conduct Public Hearings on the following applications. Information regarding how to participate in the Public Hearings will be provided on the meeting Agenda that will be posted on the Town’s website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

Old Business:

New Business:

ZBA 26-2 Alfred Tisko-(Applicant & Owner)

37-51 Stone Street (B10-000-005-00001 R4)

Var. Sec. 3.4.A Minimum lot area of 13,862 sq ft where 20,000 sq ft is required. This is a land transfer between neighbors. 41 Union Street is transferring land to 22 Union Street, making 41 Union St. nonconforming in the process to the lot area. 22 Union St. currently non-conforming for R4 in regard to lot area, would be made conforming in this process.

ZBA 26-3 Lenore S. Digioia (Applicant & Owner)

69 Summer Island Road (D12-000-003-00004 R3)

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.7 Rear setback from 20 feet required to 1.0 foot proposed (1.0 ft was existing garage demo’d) Var. Sec. 3.4.A.10 Lot coverage from 0.25 required to 0.39 proposed (0.32 currently existing, was 0.38 before garage demo) for the addition of a one car-attached garage with a bedroom above.

ZBA 26-4 Palm Family LLC (Applicant & Owner)

20 Summer Island Point Rd (D12-000-004-00004 R3)

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.5 Streetline setback from 25 feet required to 13.0 feet proposed (1.6 feet existing)

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.10 Lot Coverage from 0.25 max to 0.28 proposed (0.27 existing) to lift and move existing home to make it FEMA compliant and provide parking.

ZBA 26-5 Paul Greenbaum (Applicant & Owner)

13 Fenway Road (E11-D11-004 -00007 R3)

Var. Sec. 3.4.A .6 To allow a side yard setback of 2.6 feet where 15 feet is required for an addition to a single family home.

Jim Sette Chairman

Silly Sammy

Story by Carol Andrecs

Funny and animated Sammy is full of antics and quite entertaining. This handsome 3½-year-old tabby will keep you on your feet, as he performs tricks and plays with his toys. Sammy can be a little shy at first but warms up quickly for a game of interactive playtime. He is quick on his feet and quick to draw attention. When Sammy tires out, he is ready for cuddling and naps. This sweet boy would probably prefer a home with other cats but no dogs. Come meet silly boy Sammy at our open house or apply to adopt him online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

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

Calling Volunteers for Branford Porchfest

The organizers of Porchfest are seeking local volunteers for Branford’s inaugural Porchfest event on Saturday, May 30. The event needs residents near the town center who are willing to donate their front porches and lawns to host musicians and audience members for a day of musical performances. Hosts will need to provide access to electrical outlets and bathrooms for the performers. The event will run from noon to 5 p.m., though hosting can be just a portion of that time. The event area centers on the town green. The rain date is Sunday, May 31. Volunteers are also needed throughout the event to serve as community ambassadors to help guide guests to the performance sites and to do cleanup after the event. For more information, email info@shorelineevents-ct.com.

LEGAL NOTICE NORTH BRANFORD CONSERVATION AND INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES AGENCY

The North Branford Conservation & Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency at its 2-25-26 Regular Meeting took the following action:

1. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS: Appl. #2026-1, 175 Twin Lakes Road – construction of a single family house and garage in the upland review area. Owner/Applicant: Barbara Shulman

Stephen Scavo, Chairman

RogeR CRampton

PLUMBING HEATING l AIRCONDITIONING

Tanks, Waterfiltration,Faucets, Leakingpipes,Gaspiping 860-434-2200

Fun By The Numbers

mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from

square

so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to

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!

T-birds Fall to Morgan in Shoreline Championship

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

North Branford reached the Shoreline Athletic Conference championship game after wins over Coginchaug and HaddamKillingworth, but the Thunderbirds fell to top-seeded Morgan 66-38 in the title game.

The loss came against a Morgan team determined to finish what it started this season.

All season long, the Morgan

Huskies worked to return to the Shoreline Athletic Conference championship and right the wrongs of the past two seasons.

The girls basketball team fell in the title game each of the last two years but entered this season determined to finish the job.

That added motivation proved to be exactly what the Huskies needed to get over the hump. Topseeded Morgan cruised through the conference tournament,

defeating Portland and Hale Ray before meeting North Branford in the championship game.

Morgan ultimately defeated second-seeded North Branford 66-38 to capture its first conference title since 2015.

“This means everything to us,” Morgan guard Mersades Passante said. “After we made it last year and lost, that was our goal from the beginning of the year — to get back here. We knew that if

we got here, we would put everything on the line and work as hard as we could. I’m just so proud of the team.”

Morgan came out pressuring North Branford’s ball handlers.

The full-court pressure forced several turnovers and turned them into easy buckets. Passante was the beneficiary of many of those points, using her aggressive downhill style to attack the paint throughout the game.

The Huskies built a 20-4 lead after the first quarter, a deficit that proved too large for the Thunderbirds to overcome.

Maddy Grenon led Morgan with 21 points, while Passante added 20 and Emma Teuner finished with 17.

Emma Preiss led North Branford with 12 points, followed by Skylar Gage with 10, Ella See T-birds Fall page 22

Captain Morgan Weighing Anchor: A Note to My Readers

For 30 years, we’ve shared the tides together. Since I first sat down to write about the fisheries and the fragile beauty of Long Island Sound, the world has changed more than a shifting sandbar after a nor’easter. We’ve seen seasons of plenty and seasons of scarcity; we’ve fought for the health of our tributaries and cheered the return of bunker and osprey. But after 1,500 weeks of deadlines, tide charts, stewardship calls to action, and much more, even the most seasoned captain eventually feels the pull of a quiet harbor.

It is time for me to take a breather from the wonderful, albeit transformational, folks at Shore Publishing who chronicled and shared my thoughts through the years, and to thank Lori (my First Mate) for her never-ending support.

The Beacon on the Horizon

Whenever I’ve been out on the water—navigating the complexities of fisheries management or the physical chop of a falling tide—I have always looked toward the silhouette of Faulkner’s Island. That historic “Inner Light” has been more than just a navigational aid; it is a statuesque reminder of our history and our permanence on this coast. Like that lighthouse, my goal has always been to provide a steady beam of information regarding our entire coastal ecosystem—sometimes warning of rocks ahead, sometimes guiding us toward better stewardship.

A Battle Worth Fighting

If there is one heartbeat that has pulsed through this column more than any other, it is that of the Atlantic striped bass (Morone saxatilis). The striper is the soul of our coastline, a silver ghost that embodies the constant battle for survival.

We have watched the populations swing like a pendulum. We have debated slots, gear, and seasons. But through it all, my heart has remained with the fish. Their survival is our survival; their health is the ultimate litmus test for the Sound. As I step back, I ask you to keep up that fight. Don’t let the pressure off. The bass don’t have a voice—they only have us.

The Course Ahead

This isn’t a permanent “goodbye,” but rather a “changing of the watch.” I’m step-

ping back only from the weekly grind of my featured newspaper column to spend a little more time on the water without a notebook in my hand. I want to see Faulkner’s Light from the deck of a boat without worrying about the word count of the sunset.

Atlantic fisheries, those of Connecticut, and the health of our inland waters and estuaries remain my greatest passion. I’ll still be around—likely at an unmarked hump, an island someplace, or a management or conservation meeting—watching the horizon with the same hope I’ve always had.

For now, I’m weighing anchor and heading for some open water. Keep your lines tight, your hearts open to the environment, and always keep an eye on the tide.

Goodwill Seeks Donations

Easter Seals Goodwill is seeking donations, particularly clothing for men, women, and children, as well as linens and household items, including small kitchen appliances, glasses, and dishware. Donations are accepted at 249 West Main Street, Branford. For more information, visit goodwill-branford-gwsne.business.site.

Community Dining Room (CDR) hosts family nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. at 30 Harrison Avenue, Branford. For more information, call 203488-9750 or visit www.communitydiningroom.org.

T-birds Fall to Morgan in Shoreline Championship

Continued from page 20

Chasanoff with nine and Zoe DeSimone with seven.

Morgan coach Caitlin Woods said the team entered the game determined to maintain pressure and avoid backing down.

“We’ve been working on our pressure all season, and we knew we wanted to come out and pressure,” Woods said. “We were a little nervous about coming out and playing a zone defense because that’s not really our style, but we worked on it and thought it was a good idea to contain the kids that can drive really well for North Branford.”

Woods said North Branford was still able to knock down some shots, but she was pleased with how the Huskies performed on both sides of the ball.

She added that while the team was naturally motivated after the last two championship losses, there was little discussion about last season’s result.

“This was a new slate with returning players, but also a different season. We have different strengths and different things that we have worked on and added,” she said. “We just had the mentality that this year is ours.”

Morgan will have time to rest before beginning the state tournament with a first-round bye. The top seed in Division IV is hoping to return to the state championship after falling short in last year’s tournament.

“These guys have one speed on the court, and one speed off the court too. They are so laser-focused on getting back to Mohegan Sun,” Woods said. “They know it’s tournament time. You either survive and advance, or you go home. They know if

we don’t get the next one, we’re not going back to Mohegan Sun.”

For North Branford, the Thunderbirds will need to regroup quickly as they continue their own state tournament run. North Branford defeated Coginchaug and Haddam-Killingworth to reach the conference championship game.

The Thunderbirds have since defeated Goodwin Tech 76-20 in the first round of the Division V state tournament. North Branford entered the tournament as the No. 7 seed.

“The girls were really focused and wanted to definitely make an impact on the conference tournament, and they definitely did that,” North Branford coach Sabrina LeMere said. “For the championship game, it was a new environment. Morgan has been there before. It’s a lot. Emotions are high. There are a lot of people there. It’s loud. It’s a totally different environment than what you’re used to, and mentally it’s hard to prepare for.”

LeMere said the team is applying that experience as it moves through the state tournament. With the quick turnaround between games, she said the team is balancing rest with preparation while staying focused on the task at hand.

“We always look at each tournament and each game during the regular season just day by day. I want them to stay focused on taking what’s coming in front of us head-on,” she said. “That end goal is Mohegan, but I want them to stay focused. I want them to be confident, and I want them to enjoy the end of the season because they really did work hard and developed greatly throughout the regular season.”

School of Basketball Spring Clinics Begin March 17

The School of Basketball will be held at Adams Middle School, 233 Church St., in Guilford. These clinics give players in grades 3–8 the opportunity to improve their ball-handling skills and shooting form, build confidence, and make the game more fun for every participant.

Sessions begin March 17 and run every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday through April 10. Each clinic meets from 5 to 6 p.m.

Players may attend as many sessions each week as their schedule allows.

The cost is $20 per session. Payment is accepted by check, cash, or Venmo (203824-8897).

Please feel free to invite friends to join us. With any questions, please call or text Coach Bill Barker at 203-494-6905 or email wab6933@gmail.com.

How did Dry Tortugas get its name? When Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon discovered the island in 1513, he also found an abundance of sea turtles, leading him to name the island “Las Tortugas,” which is Spanish for “the turtles.” But as beautiful as the island was, it lacked one vital resource: fresh water. So, the word “dry” was added to the name to inform sailors and seafaring visitors to bring their own fresh water to drink.

Florida Keys Unlocked: Sailing Aboard American Pioneer

Postcards from Afar: Second in a Two-part Travel Series on the Florida Keys

By

The Florida Keys, particularly Key West and Dry Tortugas National Park, have been on my to-do list for years. So are cruises—unpack once, visit different destinations, have tons of fun along the way. I particularly love small ships—hop-on hopoff, no “hurry up and wait,” more personal, go a bit off the beaten path.

So, when I learned that the small ship operator American Cruise Lines (ACL) offered a Florida Gulf Coast and Keys cruise, my bags practically packed themselves. Even better—the trip was aboard ACL’s brand new ship, .

The nine-day trip (round trip from St. Petersburg, visiting ports including Marco Island, Key West, and Punta Gorda) spends two full days in Key West, a rarity for cruises which typically stop for a few hours.

But why were Key West and Dry Tortugas on my bucket list, you ask? Two reasons: First, I’ve been a Jimmy Buffett fan for decades and second, I’m hooked on national parks.

Key West, the southernmost point in the continental U.S., is quirky and wild at times, but also has that laid-back live-andlet-live attitude. The “Conch Republic” has

The Southernmost Point Buoy claims to mark the southernmost point in the continental U.S. It’really a tourist attraction and not technically the true southernmost point.

historic charm, stunning turquoise waters, and endless sunshine. It’s also one of the warmest spots in the U.S., so visiting in February after the Arctic winter in the Nutmeg State, the timing couldn’t have been better. The sunsets are iconic—among the best in the U.S.—and celebrated every evening at Mallory Square with street performers, vendors, live music, and a festive crowd.

Though I really wanted to visit, I expected Key West to be crazy-wild and overcrowded, Times Square but tropical. Wow, was I wrong! Key West was

The author's husband, Bob,

America 2.0

. This

operates in New York City from June through October and in Key West from November through May.

extremely clean and not at all crowded.

While we were told there are roughly 500 liquor licenses in a compact area (less than 4 square miles), the legendary bar scene was completely under control. There are bars on top of bars, which is how there are so many licenses!

Speaking of counts, the more entertaining one is the number of free-roaming chickens and roosters strutting around streets, parks, and cafes—the population of “gypsy chickens” is estimated in the thousands. These characters certainly add to the island’s character.

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote national parks in the lower 48 due to its isolation and access challenges. I felt fortunate to be one of the few who ever get to visit. Dry Tortugas is 70 miles west of Key West, 90 miles from Cuba, and accessible only by boat (the ferry, which takes 2.5 to 3 hours each way, or a private boat) or by seaplane (about 35 to 40 minutes from Key West). Both are pricey field trips, the ferry costing about $235 per person and the seaplane over

See Florida Keys page 24

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 12

Great Decisions: America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy

: 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Facilitated by Tom Lee, a member and moderator of the Great Decisions discussion group. Produced by the Foreign Policy Association. First of four Thursday sessions through April 9. The series has a morning and afternoon session and participants can enroll in either session for the series. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $40 for all four sessions and a 2026 briefing book that covers the topics. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Painting Treasure Boxes

: 6 to 8 p.m. BACA Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Led by Edith Reynolds. Participants will design decorative boxes for personal treasures. Cost: $45. For info or to register, text 203-2324384 or visit branfordarts.org.

Community Navigator

: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd. Farah, a community navigator with United Way of Greater New Haven, will provide information and connect community members with resources related to employment, financial assistance, and supportive services. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.

: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Youth ages 10 to 14 are invited to play rounds of Mario Kart. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

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.

The Monthly Slice: What’s Doug Got to Do with It? Everything!

Calendar for the Week of March 12, 2026

: 6 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave., New Haven. Features a conversation with Big Green Truck founder Doug Coffin on how he helped popularize the pizza truck industry in Connecticut. Part of The Monthly Slice program series and presented in conjunction with the exhibition Pronounced Ah-Beetz. Coffin will be joined by Colin M. Caplan, co-curator of the exhibition. Free with regular museum admission. For info or to register, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

American Perspectives with Tanya Pohrt

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Lyman Allyn Museum curator Tanya Pohrt presents an illustrated lecture in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, highlighting works from the museum’s collection. Free and open to the public. For info or to register (required), call 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

See page 26

Marcie Slepian holds a PhD in history of art with a specialty in Renaissance and Baroque art.

Lecture Features the Golden Age of Spanish Painting and Collecting

Press Release from Shoreline Village Connecticut

The artistic treasures of the Prado Museum in Madrid, Spain, are the subject of Marcie Slepian’s presentation at the Guilford Free Library, 67 Park Street, on Tuesday, April 7, at 1 p.m.

“The Golden Age of Spanish Painting and Collecting” will highlight the career and works of Diego Valesquez as well as the works of Francisco Goya, Titian, and Rubens. Slepian will also discuss art collecting by the monarchy and some of the museum’s “misfortunes.”

Slepian holds a PhD from Yale University in the history of art. Her specialty is Renaissance and Baroque art. The event is co-sponsored by the Guilford Free Library and Shoreline Village Connecticut. For more information, visit guilfordfreelibrary.org or shoreline villagect.org.

Florida Keys Unlocked: Sailing Aboard American Pioneer

Continued from page 23

$500 per person for a half-day, $890 for a full day, plus the national park fee. What you get, though, is spectacular and well worth every dime. The park is known as the home of the magnificent Fort Jefferson as well as natural wonders below the water’s surface. Dry Tortugas is widely known for its exceptional snorkeling; the park’s remoteness means less boat traffic and human impact, resulting in clearer visibility, healthier corals, and more diverse wildlife.

We booked the Seaplane Adventure to Dry Tortugas as pas- American Pioneer

sengers—this sold out quickly! Our other excursions in Key West included the classic sailing schooner, the Key West trolley tour, and four museums with a culture pass. What we didn’t have time for (and wish we did) were the Hemingway Rum Company and Cigar Rolling, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, an Old Town Literary Walking Exploration, and HydroThunder Electric Cars.

Of course, there were fantastic excursions in the other ports, including an Everglades and 10,000 Islands Exploration, a dolphin exploration, Iguanaland, Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Garden, and the Punta Gorda Artisans Village. America 2.0

On board there was just as much to do—enrichment presentations, games, crafts, and evening entertainment ranging from magicians to musicians.

I’ve sailed ACL from its most northern destination, Alaska, to its most southern, the Florida Gulf Coast and Keys, but nothing in between…yet. While I would gladly do both destinations again, I plan to cruise with ACL on the Columbia and Snake rivers or the Mississippi or Puget Sound. With over 50 itineraries and nine new ships under construction, the bucket list just keeps getting bigger.

For more information on this cruise as well as others, visit www.american

cruiselines.com

Susan Cornell, owner of Moppet Magic Publishing and Public Relations, is an independently contracted photographer, marketing and public relations consultant, and writer specializing in business, boating, home and garden, and, of course, travel. She handles public relations for several art galleries and is the author of the children’s book

Essex Ed’s Groundhog Day Parade

. In her free time, she hikes, kayaks, serves on the advisory board for the Connecticut Sea Music Festival, and is a steward for the Essex Land Trust. She has two grown children and lives in Essex with her husband and rescue Puggle.

Shoreline Soul Returns for its Choral Gospel Workshop and Concert

Are you ready to experience the uplifting power of gospel singing?

Join Shoreline Soul for an uplifting community choral gospel workshop and concert in Guilford. This workshop is primarily designed for adults, but youth who can follow a lyric sheet are also welcome to join the fun. All levels are encouraged to participate.

Led by professional singer Angela Clemmons, this five-session workshop explores the rich sounds of both traditional and contemporary gospel. All sessions are lively, fun, and taught by ear—there is no sheet music. Participants receive recordings to confidently practice at home.

“Our workshop sessions aren’t religious services—they’re joyful celebrations of gospel music that welcome everyone,” says Clemmons. “It’s all about the music, the energy, and the celebration of unity. By the end, you’ll be amazed at what we can achieve together.”

The five sessions take place from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. on Mondays, April 20, April 27, May 4, May 18, and June 1 at First Congregational Church, 122 Broad Street, Guilford. The concert will be held Sunday, June 14, at 3 p.m. with a pre-concert rehearsal at 1:15 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

The workshop registration fee is $95,

tration is encouraged. Registration is only complete after payment has been received. For more information, contact 203-6191415 or shorelinesoul@gmail.com.

with an early registration of $85 (by Monday, April 6). The registration fee includes a guide vocal digital recording (CD available if needed). Some scholarships are available. Space is limited and early regis-

About Angela Clemmons

Angela Clemmons is a professional singer with a career spanning over four decades, performing with legends, includ-

ing Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Celine Dion, Garth Brooks, and Steely Dan, and appearing on national television shows such as and the Tony Awards. As daughter of a Pentecostal pastor, she brings a deep love for gospel music and extensive professional experience to every workshop. Angela resides in Westbrook.

Saturday Night Live

CBSRZ Hosts Exhibit of Chester’s Own Native Son

Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, Chester, announces its newest gallery exhibition, , now on display through Thursday, April 30.

The Paintings of Malcolm Feinstein, Chester’s Native Son

Feinstein developed a number of styles over his 65 years of painting, and three are featured at the exhibit: vibrant landscapes, bold figures, and geometric abstractions. Feinstein, who passed away in 2014, said of himself, “I’m an expressionist by temperament, I’m seeking to develop an art that people at large can understand.”

The Chester Historical Society will be co-sponsoring the reception on Sunday, March 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek is a reform synagogue located at 55 East Kings Highway in Chester.

Malcolm Feinstein (1922-2014) grew up

in Chester, Connecticut, living in the apartment above his family’s dry goods store at 1 West Main Street. His talent in the visual arts was recognized early. During his grade school years, he painted murals on many of the old school’s walls.

After graduating from Chester High School in 1940, he attended Pratt Institute where he studied lettering and package design. During his long career as lead artist with Irv Koons Associates, he was involved in the design or redesign of some of the most recognizable products in America, including Mueller’s noodles, Dixie Cups, and Scotties tissues. Some, such as the redesign of the Good and Plenty box, are still in use today.

Feinstein’s first love, however, was painting. In 1947, following his service as a phototopographer in World War II, he used the GI bill to study painting at Ecoles d’Art Americaines, Palais de Foun-

tainebleau, and two years later, in Paris with Edouard Goerg at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière. He would set up his easel along a Parisian street or country road and banter good-naturedly with passersby who did not hesitate to comment on his work.

Back in the U.S., he continued to paint at his studios in Connecticut and Massachusetts, creating a total of 300 paintings. He did not want to exhibit his paintings during his lifetime, but now that he has passed, his children, for the first time, are bringing his paintings into public view.

For more information about Feinstein and his paintings, visit malcolm feinstein.com.

For more information or to RSVP for the reception, email office@cbsrz.org.

For gallery inquiries and showings by appointment, email CBSRZgallery@ gmail.com.

Paul Revere Comes to New Haven Museum

“Listen, my children, and you shall hear of the midnight ride of Paul Revere… ”

On Saturday, April 18—the anniversary of the most famous horse ride in American history—author Kostya Kennedy will visit the New Haven Museum to present littleknown aspects of a beloved story in his talk, “The Ride: Paul Revere and the Night that Saved America,” based on his book of the same title. The free NHM250 event will be held at 2 p.m. and preceded by a reception at 1:30 p.m.

Revere, a Boston-based silversmith, engraver, and staunch anti-British political operative, inspired the poem and legend of “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere.” But, according to Kennedy, the story of Revere’s ride to warn of approaching British troop is deeper and richer than previously assumed.

“That night in 1775 was 12 hours that changed the world,” Kennedy says.

Revere was not the only rider that April night in 1775, but he was by far the most critical. The patriots’ best and most trusted “express rider,” he had already completed at least 18 previous rides throughout New England, disseminating intelligence about British movements.

But this ride was like no other, Kennedy asserts, and its consequences in the months and years following—as the American Revolution transitioned from isolated skirmishes to a full-fledged war—became one of our founding tales.

“There’s a layered story to Paul Revere’s ride, a story that speaks directly to the tenor, values, and resolve of America’s founding,” Kennedy says. “Without the ride, the course of the nation’s history would have begun much differently than it did.”

Working from his dramatic new narra-

Continued from page 24

the Depths

small actions, and a relatively small network of people, can have an enormous impact,” he adds.

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

tive of Revere’s ride and informed by fresh primary and secondary research into archives, family letters and diaries, contemporary accounts, and more, Kennedy will show the historic event to be vastly more complex than usually portrayed.

It was a coordinated ride of some 40 men that included near-disasters, capture by British forces, and ultimately, success. While Revere was central to the ride and its plotting, Kennedy will highlight myriad other men and women who proved crucial to the events that helped set in motion

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Workshop led by angler and educator Mark Gostkiewicz on bottom fishing in Long Island Sound. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Box Painting Class

: 6 to 8 p.m. BACA Art Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Participants will paint a wooden treasure box using acrylic paint. Materials provided. Cost: $30. For info or to register, call 203-433-4071.

what would lead to America’s independence. He will also dispel some of the myths around the legend, including that of Revere purportedly saying, “The British are coming!” during the ride.

The notion of acting at great personal risk for a principle much larger than oneself resonates through history. Kennedy notes that today, groups and individuals across the political spectrum and from any number of societal perspectives still cite Revere, and his ride, as inspiration.

“It’s another reminder of how relatively

Secure Your Future: Retirement Planning

: 6 to 8 p.m.

Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Workshop presented by Lou and Jessica Pelletier covering Social Security options, recent government changes affecting non-spouse beneficiaries, retirement income strategies, and essential legal documents. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-4840469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Glass Art Workshop:

6 to 8:30 p.m. RiverFire Glass, 500 Main St., Deep River. Hands-on glass art class with instruction, tools, materials, and one kiln firing included. Additional project upgrades available for a fee. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 860864-5004 or visit riverfireglass.com.

Sports Illustrated The New York Times 56: Joe DiMaggio and the Last Magic Number in Sports Pete Rose: An American Dilemma True: The Four Seasons of Jackie Robinson

Kennedy is editor in chief of Premium Publishing at People Inc., and a former senior writer at . He is the author of bestselling , , and . All three won the Casey Award for Best Baseball Book of the Year. He has taught at Columbia University and New York University.

About the New Haven Museum

The New Haven Museum has been collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its inception as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862. Located in downtown New Haven at 114 Whitney Avenue, the museum brings more than 375 years of New Haven history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs, and outreach. As a Blue Star Museum, the New Haven Museum offers the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve, free admission allyear. For more information, call 203-5624183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

in Hand Auction Live Event

: 6 to 9 p.m. American Legion Post 79, 43 Bradley Rd., Madison. Annual fundraiser supporting Madison’s Project Graduation “Nite in Hand,” a substance-free, all-night celebration for graduating seniors. Features online, silent, and live auction bidding on donated items and experiences. Online bidding is open to the public and continues through the close of the live event. For info, tickets, or to register to bid, visit givebutter.com/NIHAuction.

Book Portals and Journeys of Literary Magic with Kate Quinn The Astral Library

: 7 p.m. Online event. Book:

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

Continued from page 26

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

Afternoon Movies

: 2 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Rated PG-13. Registration required. For info about the movie or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Open Mic Night

: 6:30 p.m. Marketplace at Guilford Food Center, 77 Whitfield St. Sign-up begins at 6 p.m. Names are selected at random. Hosted by GreenStage Guilford. Free and open to all ages. For info, email office@greenstageguilford.org or call 203-654-9482.

Last 6th Grade Dance of the Year

: 7 to 9 p.m. Madison Arts Barn, Madison. For grade 6 students. Features dancing with DJ Bry, open game tables, and a café selling treats and drinks. Financial assistance available. Admission required; tickets available online only. For tickets and info, visit madisonartsbarn.org.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 AND

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

Friends of APL Library Book and Bake Sale

: Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Fundraiser featuring books, puzzles, and baked goods. Proceeds benefit library programs and resources. For info, email nancyaprescott@gmail.com or emilylebovitz@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

Catch a Leprechaun 5K

: 10 a.m. Essex Town Hall, 29 West Ave., Essex. Presented by the Region 4 Education Foundation. Road race with age group awards from under 12 to 70 and older. Packet pickup begins at 8:30 a.m. on race day. For info or to register, visit runsignup.com (search “Catch a Leprechaun 5K”).

Hand Embroidery Workshop: Session One

: 10 a.m. to noon. BACA Art Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Session one of a two-part hand embroidery workshop led by Sally Strasser and Sharon Hart. Covers foundational embroidery stitches and techniques. Participants receive an embroidery kit to keep. For info or to register, call 203-433-4071.

Music Professor to Present Opera Lecture on Wagner’s Tristan und Isolde

Wesleyan University professor of music

sored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

AND SUNDAY, MARCH 15

Garden Tools Workshop

Tristan und Isolde

Roger Matthew Grant will discuss the upcoming Metropolitan Opera performance of Richard Wagner’s on Thursday, March 26, at 5:30 p.m. at the Guilford Free Library, 67 Park Street.

Grant is the deputy provost and dean of arts and humanities at Wesleyan University. A music theorist and cultural historian, he has worked on research that includes affect theory and the history of music theory.

He is the author of two award-winning books, and

Peculiar Attunements: How Affect Theory Turned Musical Beating Time & Measuring Music in the Early Modern Era

. He is currently completing a new book on mission music in 18th-century Bolivia.

A lifelong opera fan, Grant has held fellowships from the University of Michigan Society of Fellows, the Stanford Humanities Center, and the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundations.

The free program is co-sponsored by the Guilford Free Library, the Shoreline Opera Club, and Shoreline Village Connecticut. Registration for the lecture is at the library’s events webpage, guilfordfreelibrary.org/upcoming-events.

The Secret Garden

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Presented by the Missoula Children’s Theatre. For info, call 860510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Saturday Cinema

: 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free. Registration suggested. For info or movie title, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

How to Use ChatGPT Artificial Intelligence: A Basic Introduction

: 4 to 5 p.m.

Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $35. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Roger Grant is a professor of music, deputy provost, and dean of arts and humanities at Wesleyan University.

Tristan und Isolde

The Metropolitan Opera’s production of will be broadcast live in theaters on Saturday, March 21.

For information on the Shoreline Opera Club, email Sheryl Culotta at shorelineoperaclub@gmail.com.

Harmonies

of Hope for Ukraine

: 5 p.m.

First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison. Features an evening of classical music performed by Yevgenia Strenger (violin), Dan Berlinghoff (piano), Sheryl Henze (flute), and Sander Strenger (viola), with works by Cesar Cui, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Julius Zellner. Proceeds benefit “Remember Us,” a nonprofit distributing aid in Ukraine. Minimum donation: $20; guests under 16 admitted free. For info, contact 203-245-2739 or mainoffice@fccmadison.org, or visit fccmadison.org.

Cheap Flights, Hotel Deals, and Grocery Savings with AI

: 5 to 6 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $35. Features a beginner class and students are not required to have Prior knowledge of ChatGPT. Spon-

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Instructor Mace Vitale will lead a workshop on forging hand garden tools including a trowel made from a railroad spike, a hand rake, and possibly a weeding tool. Participants should bring safety glasses and leather work gloves and wear closedtoe boots. Bring a lunch. Tuition: $300 plus materials fees of $20 and $25. For info or to register, contact 203-453-5947 or info@guilfordartcenter.org, or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15

CPR Course

: 1 to 4 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1272 Durham Rd., Madison. Day two of a two-part babysitting and CPR course for Madison-area youth. Covers CPR and first aid. Participants receive a certificate of completion from ESRI. Tuition: $60. Bundle discount available for registering for both sessions. For info, contact 888-212-3837 or info@yourafterschool.com, or visit northmadisoncc.org/babysittingcourse.

Paint a Pot and Plant a Seed 8702.

Ramblin’ Dan Stevens

: 2 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Planting activity open to all ages. Free. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-488: 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Shunock River Brewery and Village Cafe, 2 Wyassup Rd., North Stonington. Features an acoustic blues performance. For info, call 860-415-9941.

The Kate’s 16th Annual Oscar Night Party

: 6 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Hosted by the Kate’s Volunteer Guild and honorary chair Ann Nyberg. Emcee: Devin Carney. Features hors d’oeuvres, desserts, viewing of the 98th Academy Awards live on the Kate’s big screen, and a chance to participate in an online auction and participate in a raffle. Cash bar. Tickets: $75 for members, $85 for nonmembers. Proceeds benefit the Katharine Hepburn Museum and education programs. For info, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

See page 28

Free Nature Presentation: The American Woodcock

: 6 p.m. Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, 733 Old Clinton Rd., Westbrook. Features a presentation by naturalist Patricia Laudano on the American woodcock, a shrubland bird that returns to Connecticut in spring. Includes a PowerPoint on the bird’s natural history and behavior, followed by a walk along the refuge trails at dusk to observe the courtship flight. Inclement weather may cancel. For info or to register (required), contact 860-399-2513 or Shaun_Roche@fws.gov.

MONDAY, MARCH 16

Madison Movie Chat

: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Virtual movie discussion hosted by E.C. Scranton Memorial Library. Film is available to stream on Kanopy, a free streaming service accessible with a library card. Participants can watch the movie at their leisure and participate in a patronled discussion via Zoom. Registration is preferred. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 17

Working with Transgender Youth in Trying Times

: 10:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Dr. Stuart Weinzimer, professor of pediatrics and medical director of the Yale gender program, and Christy Olezeksi, associate professor of psychiatry; both are from the Yale University School of Medicine. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-4538086 or visit ssill.org.

Shorebirds of Connecticut: Migration, Survival, and Conservation

: 4 to 5 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Presented by Joe Attwater of the Connecticut Audubon Society. Learn about shorebird migration, conservation efforts, and species found in Connecticut. Free and open to all. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Read to a Therapy Dog

: 5 to 6 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Children in grades 3 to 5 will take turns reading to Libby, a trained therapy dog. Participants may bring a favorite book or choose one from the

Unforgettable Sister Amnesia: DeLaurentis Reprises Her Role in Nunsense

Press Release from The Legacy Theatre

Award-winning actress Semina DeLaurentis will reprise her famed role as Sister Mary Amnesia in The Legacy Theatre’s upcoming production of . The show kicks off the Mainstage Season which opens Thursday, April 23, at the Stony Creek venue.

DeLaurentis, a member of the show’s original cast, won an Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Debut Performance in 1985. Subsequently, she went on to film , , and with Rue McClanahan, firmly embedding herself in the show’s legacy.

Following her prized New York City debut, DeLaurentis brought to Waterbury in December 1989. The overwhelming success of the show led to the launch of the Seven Angels Theatre, a mainstay for theatrical productions in the Waterbury area. DeLaurentis served as artistic director at the organization for 35 years, having recently retired in 2025.

Legacy Artistic Director Eric Santagata says about the casting, “We are overjoyed to welcome Semina to our stage. Her performance as Sister Mary Amnesia is nothing short of exquisite, and we can’t wait for our audiences to experience it first-hand.”

As an artistic director, DeLaurentis produced more than 6,000 performances, approximately 250 plays and musicals, and over 45 world premieres. She is an actress, singer, director, and producer whose widely recognized cabaret work has been seen across the country.

Commenting on her return to the role that put her on the map, DeLaurentis says, “To have the opportunity to re-create Amnesia again is such a gift. I am so grateful to Eric and Legacy for asking me.” runs from Thursday, April 23, through Sunday, May 17.

Nunsense

Theatre. Nunsense

The Legacy Theatre is located at 128 Thimble Islands Road, in the Stony Creek Village of Branford. Legacy is a fully accessible, nonprofit, professional theatre and training center along the Connecticut shoreline. The theatre, fully renovated prior to its opening in 2021, is housed in the former Stony Creek Puppet Theatre, a building with more than a century of rich history that includes performances by Orson Welles and, in 2024, a musical directed by Julie Andrews. For tickets, call 203-315-1901 or visit LegacyTheatreCT.org. Tickets can also be purchased by visiting the theatre on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

honey tasting with local beekeeper Tammi Worsham, followed by a documentary film screening. Registration preferred. For info or movie title, visit scrantonlibrary.org.

: 6 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave., New Haven. Reception at 5:30 p.m. Presentation by Catie White, interim director of library services and college archivist at Albertus Magnus College. Concludes the “Celebrating a Century” lecture series and highlights key female figures in the history of Albertus Magnus College from 1925 to the present, including faculty, staff, and alumnae recognized for notable achievements and “firsts.” Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

Spring Equinox Creative Awakening: Visions of Healing Workshop

library. Registration required. For info or to register (required), email cveenema@nbranfordlibraries.org. : 5:30 to 7 p.m. BACA Gallery, 1004 Main St., Bran-

ford. Led by Asami Green. Features meditation and art journaling with mixed media. Cost: $44. For info or to register, text 203-232-4384 or visit branfordarts.org.

Movie Screening and Honey Tasting

: 5:30 to 7:45 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd. Features a

Great Decisions: Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy

: 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Facilitated by Tom Lee, a member and moderator of the Great Decisions discussion group. Produced by the Foreign Policy Association. Second of four Thursday sessions through April 9. The series has a morning and afternoon session and participants can enroll in either session for the series. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $40 for all four sessions and a 2026 briefing book that covers the topics. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Book Club

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 Night Watch: A Novel

: Noon to 2 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Book: by Jayne Anne Phillips. For info or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Pottery Workshop: Session One

: 4 to 6 p.m. BACA Art Gallery, 1004 Main St., Branford. Session one of a two-session pottery workshop led by Ken Hurd. Session two takes place Thursday, March 26. Participants will use quick-drying clay and rolling-pin techniques. Cost: $50 for both sessions. For info or to register, call 203433-4071.

Old Saybrook Rotary Club Announces 2026 Events

The Rotary Club of Old Saybrook announces its upcoming events and fundraisers for 2026.

With a motto of “Service Above Self,” the Rotary Club of old Saybrook holds its events focused on developing fellowship, promoting local endeavors, and supporting education in Old Saybrook, Old Lyme, and Westbrook, as well as the international community.

Wine/Beer Tasting and Silent Auction

The Rotary Club of Old Saybrook will hold its 28th annual wine/beer tasting and silent auction on Friday, April 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, 2 Bridge Street.

Hosted by Scot Haney, Channel 3 meteorologist and TV host of , and Nicole Nalepa, TV personality and podcaster, the event features fine wine and craft beer tasting, exceptional food by Saybrook Point, and a silent auction with at least 3 “live” items. Haney serves as auctioneer for these “live” items. Music will be provided by Susie and The Q-Tips.

Great Day @9A Paradise Wines & Spirits, or from any Old Saybrook Rotary member. Tickets can also be purchased at www.osrotary.org.

For more information, call Marty Drobiarz at 860-391-3539 or Pete Zucco at 860-391-2438.

Shredding Day

Proceeds from the event benefit many community projects, including scholarships to graduating seniors from Lyme/Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook high schools; the Rotary Club Dictionary Program; the Estuary Council Meals on Wheels and Shoreline Soup Kitchen and Pantries; community outreach; and many other community and international service projects.

Tickets cost $50 and are available from Seaside Wine & Spirits,

Continued from page 28

Tea and Talk

The Old Saybrook Rotary Club plans service projects that also focus on environmental sustainability. Part of the group’s mission is to enhance the capacity of communities to support natural resource management and conversation.

Members of the community can also do their part by participating in the eighth year of the Old Saybrook Rotary Shredding Day that takes place on Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m. to noon at Old Saybrook High School.

: 2 p.m. The Brownstone House, 961 Boston Post Rd., Guilford. Informal conversation gathering hosted by Shoreline Village CT. For info or to register (requested), contact 203-747-5939 or info@shorelinevillageCT.org.

Library Lab: Milk and Cookies

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Features a hands-on science activity exploring the scientific method by predicting whether cookies will sink or float. For ages 6 to 12. Note: Program contains dairy and gluten. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-4840469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

The shredded material collected on shredding day will be 100% recycled. This includes fullscale repulping into consumergrade content products, such as light-grade cardboard packages, pizza boxes, paper towel rolls, and low-grade paper (newspapers and thermal receipts).

The cost for shredding is a donation of $10 per box (copy paper size). The event takes place rain or shine. Proceeds from this event benefit the towns of Lyme/Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. In addition, the Rotary Club will be collecting nonperishable food items to benefit the Shoreline Food Pantries.

The Old Saybrook Rotary Club members are creating more ways to bring about positive change and increase impact on an everchanging environment. Rotary Clubs all over the world are involved in projects that provide clean water and fight diseases such as polio eradication.

For more information, contact John Aforismo at 860-794-5009 or johnaforismo07@gmail.com.

100-Year Birthday Celebration

The Old Saybrook Rotary Club will be celebrating its 100-year anniversary in 2027, with plans already in the making.

For more information about the Old Saybrook Rotary Club,

Candle Making Workshop: Soy Wax Candle: Spring Tulip Bowl

: 5:45 to 7:45 p.m. North Branford Intermediate School, 654 Foxon Rd. Cost: $30 class fee plus a $20 materials fee (exact change requested). Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Author Event: Casey Elsass What Can I Bring?

: 6 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.

Peaceful Pause

: 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. North Branford Intermediate School, 654 Foxon Rd. Cost: $44. Bring a yoga mat, towel, blanket, and anything needed for a comfortable breathwork experience. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

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

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

EAST HAVEN

MADISON

: Jennifer Viglione to Kendra A. Tyska and Benjamin I. Baril, $375,000 on Feb. 20

: Roy A. and Veronica D. South to Linda L. Romanowski, $358,500 on Feb. 17

: Kimberly Swann to Gita Pandey, $295,000 on Feb. 20

: Pyun Prop Holdings LLC to Sound View 49 LLC, $480,000 on Feb. 18

: James P. and Kimberly A. Corbett to Francisca Ibarra and Edward P. Roosevelt, $385,000 on Feb. 18

: Gregory Pinski to Jacob F. Pickerell and Jesica Raingo, $330,000 on Feb. 17

: Better Buyer LLC to Michael A. Walsh and Andrea K. Scott, $400,000 on Feb. 17

Medley Lane

: Housing and Urban Development Of Washington D.C. to Rosa L. Sanchez, $310,000 on Feb. 18

Elizabeth J. Clark to Rochelle Bronit, $275,000 on Feb. 19

Estate of Mary A. Barile and John F. Williams to John Williams, $109,900 on Feb. 18

Guilford Court

: Loandepot Com

LLC to Elsa Rodriguez and Glenda Flores, $155,000 on Feb. 18

17 Guilford Court

: Estate of Paul M. Zachey and Elaine M. Fuller-Zachey to Elsa Rodriguez and Glenda Flores,

$155,000 on Feb. 18

: Karen F. Wade to Dajanese Polk, $385,000 on Feb. 20 118 Hellstrom Road

GUILFORD

Tracy Bonito, Realtor 203-772-5319

Tracy.Bonito@raveis.com Your hardworking and dedicated real estate agent...

108 Boston Post Road

: Gretta E.

Macmillan to Samuel M. and Evguenia S. Winn, $535,000 on Feb. 17

: Rachel Nicoletti and Scott Janus to Graziella and Andrew Luzzi, $770,000 on Feb. 18

: George K. and Mary Jo Shuey to Joseph and Kellie Lombardi, $630,000 on Feb. 20

NORTH HAVEN

: Mary D. Sarubbi to Mamadou and Stephanie Hane, $675,000 on Feb. 20

OLD SAYBROOK

: Say Main LLC to Jerome Prop 162 LLC, $2,000,000 on Feb. 18

: Guthrie and Melissa Mitchell to Paul Stranieri, $675,000 on Feb. 20

: Overt Properties LLC to Christopher Sluyter, $785,000 on Feb. 17

: Turner

L. Carnes to Hope G. Dieffenbach, $20,000 on Feb. 18

: Paul W. Mei to Restfulbluff LLC, $103,000 on Feb. 20

: 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

: Jonathan A. and Mary-Ellen W. Flatow to Stephen Wenderoth and Jennifer Culhane, $15,000 on Feb. 19

OPEN HOUSE

15 Griffing Pond Road, Branford

$1,629,000

Saturday, March 14, 12-2PM and Sunday, March 15, 12-2PM

Discover coastal elegance in Pine Orchard, one of the most sought-after shoreline communities in Branford. Timeless New England charm meets modern luxury. Nestled on a quiet street just moments from the water, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath residence offers over 4,250 square feet of beautifully designed living space. Sunlight pours through oversized windows, illuminating hardwood floors and an open-concept layout perfect for both everyday living and elegant entertaining.

The chef’s kitchen features premium stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, a spacious island, and seamless flow into a cozy family room and spacious dining room. Step outside to a private backyard oasis with a deck, lush landscaping, and room for summer gatherings under the stars. Upstairs, the primary suite is a serene retreat with a spa-inspired bath and generous walk-in closets. Additional bedrooms provide comfort and flexibility for guests, a home office, or creative space. Whether you’re seeking a year-round residence or a sophisticated coastal getaway, this Pine Orchard gem offers the perfect blend of privacy, prestige, and seaside living.