The Source 01-22-26

Page 1


January 22, 2026

A New England Newspaper of the Year 2018

Selectmen to Deliberate New Academy Proposals

Following presentations from four hospitality builders looking to renovate Academy School, the Board of Selectmen will enter deliberations throughout the month of January about which of the development con-

Madison & Killingworth Vol. XXXI Iss. 4 will speak in Branford on Jan. 27 about overcoming a traumatic injury........2

Samantha Hunt, 10, raises more than $7,000 in an Arthritis Foundation fundraiser...................20

Justin Brownell

Justin Brownell: Walking the Woods with Spirit

Special to The Source

“I go to Nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in tune once more,” said John Burroughs, American naturalist of the mid-19th and early 20th centuries.

Burroughs’ wistful sentiments are shared by many … and for those who do embrace Mother Nature’s soulful essence, you’ll want to attend the Branford Land Trust’s free public event, “Access to the Outdoors,” on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 6-7:30 p.m. at the James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. The 53-yearold Justin Brownell will share with the audience those same environmental insights on embracing the natural world … and a good deal more.

Justin is a living personification of what the natural world offers us all … if we take the time to visit and explore its spiritual grace. And given what Fate doled out to him, only a few years back, he is most certainly qualified to speak on the healing

essence that it to be experienced from trekking bountiful woodland realms.

“My upcoming appearance as the Land Trust’s guest speaker actually came about through a chance meeting at the Stony Creek Farmer’s Market with Land Trust board member Julie Wagner. My fiancée, Adrenna Paolillo, who is a committee member for the Market, knew Julie, and they both happened to be there on that day,” said Justin. “So, we got to talking and the subject of the new trails came up. They want these trails to be accessible to everyone, and are looking to me for input regarding overcoming disabilities, since I’ve not allowed that to get in my way.”

And Justin Brownell knows quite a

bit about transcending tragedies of the past and forging a promising path to the future. In July 2018 he suffered a devastating injury from a severe accident that might well have sent him plummeting into the lower depths of despair.

“I was performing some basic maintenance on a second-story window when I took a brutal fall,” Justin reflects. “And at first, I did not realize the source of my injury because I didn’t have even a scratch on me. Then I learned that I’d ruptured my aorta (largest artery in the body), and badly enough that it was the impetus for an amputation of my right arm from the bicep down,” he explained. “But, in retrospect, I realize it all could have been a lot worse.”

Justin recalls raising his 13-yearold daughter, Kaya — as a single parent — and feeling an obligation to her to remain strong throughout the ordeal … which he did.

“My moment of resilience came in

See Justin page 14

Photo Submitted
Justin Brownell and fiance Adrenna Paolillo during their climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro in January 2024.

Madison and Killingworth’s Hometown Newspaper

Founded in 1996

Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2026 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Letters Editor to the

A Note of Gratitude

As the 2026 dawns, we at the First Congregational Church offer this belated word of thanks to the wider Madison community for their extraordinary support for our Thanksgiving Turkey Drive. Each year, we partner with Christian Community Action (CCA), a faith-based non-profit whose mission is to serve families in and around New Haven, providing housing and food assistance during times of crisis.

This year, thanks to the generosity of the wider Madison, the number of donations doubled to nearly 130 turkeys. Your generous response to this appeal contributed to nearly a tenth of CCA’s goal of providing Thanksgiving dinner to their nearly 1300 client families.

We also want to express our sincere thanks to the staff at the Madison Stop ‘n Shop, and especially to their manager Anthony Santilli, for his time and support working with our own Doug Payette-Thimm and Kristen Skonieczny to make the collection so easy and seam-

less. Without their generous support, we cannot imagine the collection to have been as successful as it was.

Once again, our thanks to everyone in the Madison community who purchased a turkey this Thanksgiving. Perhaps it serves as a sign of hope as we enter the New Year, conscious of our collective hope for well-being and of an expansive vision of what it means to be community.

In that spirit, Nicole Smith, Christian Community Action’s Director of Emergency Family Services, writes:

“Your thoughtful contribution will make a profound difference this holiday season. Because of your kindness, we are able to provide a warm, traditional Thanksgiving meal to countless families in our community who need it most. This meal is about more than just food; it offers a sense of community, comfort, and hope.”

Reverend Todd C. Vetter

First Congregation Church, UCC Madison

Killingworth Selectmen Outline Budget Priorities for new year

The Killingworth Board of Selectmen is looking into working a PFAS treatment system and annual testing for local schools into the 2026 fiscal budget.

PFAS contamination, involving socalled “forever chemicals” that pollute the water and can lead to various health concerns including cancer, is a concern in Killingworth after harmful chemicals were found for several years in the area containing town hall, the fire department, and neighboring homes.

Town campus safety and public safety are two of the priorities known already for in the Killingworth budget that the board will begin to work on in the next few weeks.

First Selectman Eric Couture told The Source that the board currently estimates between $200,000 to $400,000 in capital expenses for the installation of the treatment system at town campus and around $160,000 annually for testing.

This decision comes after the harmful chemicals had been found for several years

in the area containing town hall, the fire department, and neighboring homes, said Couture. Most of the homes that were at risk were along Wolf Hollow Lane.

The move to install a PFAS treatment system in the town campus area comes after the town installed a functioning one at Killingworth Elementary School, added Couture.

The area of public safety is the second major area of consideration within the upcoming budget. Currently, the board is looking to double the police budget with the addition of a second state trooper in town.

Couture said Killingworth is the only community in the region with one state trooper and no constables. The budget line item for a second state trooper, which is currently estimated at $150,000 annual, is primarily in response to upticks in traffic in town, “a lot of it going to Hammonasset in Madison,” said Couture, with Killingworth being “king of the throughway.”

“With [Route 81] and Green Hill, we’re

See Selectmen page 8

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier
Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130
Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140
Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167
Maria Caulfield Living Editor
Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor
Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304
Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119
Alan C. Ellis Production Director
Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122
Eric O’Connell Harbor News
Serenity Bishop Sports Editor Ext. 6141
Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent
Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant
Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier
Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography
Editorial Staff

Obituaries

Obituary

Priscilla Harpell

Madison

Priscilla Mae (Swan) Harpell, 89, long-time resident of Madison, passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 29, 2025 at Artis Senior Living of Branford.

Priscilla was born in Everett, Mass., on July 31, 1936. She was the daughter of the late Harold Gray Swan and Gladys May (Moore) Swan. She was predeceased by her siblings, Charles Swan, Carolyn Appelbaum and Ruth Cooke. She is survived by her loving husband, Ronald Gilford Harpell; and her three daughters, Laura (Dempsey) and her husband Donald of Wallingford, Cheryl (Roberts) and her husband Daniel of Madison, and Robin Harpell of Waterford. Additionally, she is survived by her grandchildren: Megan (Dempsey) Ramer and her husband Kevin of Wallingford, Timothy Dempsey of Wallingford, David Dempsey and his wife Amber of Peabody, Mass., Jason Dempsey and his wife Taylor of Beverly, Mass., Kelsey Roberts of North Attleboro, Mass., Jessica Harpell of Hilton Head, S.C., and Scott Roberts of Stamford. She also had six great-grandchildren: Chloe, Christian, Emma, Dylan, Landon and Conor; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Priscilla graduated from Everett High School in 1954. Following graduation, she attended Chandler School for Women, where she earned her certificate as a medical secretary, a position she held until her retirement from VNA Community Healthcare in 2004. In 1959, Priscilla married Ron, her high school sweetheart and husband of 66 years. They moved to Madison in the early 1970s, where she lovingly raised her family with faith and grace. Priscilla was a devoted follower of Christ, and lived her life to reflect God’s love through her kindness, dedication and care of others.

She treasured family time and enjoyed sailing, camping, fishing, biking, gardening and bird watching along the shore. Known for her sunny disposition, she will be remembered for her sense of humor and love of her family.

Priscilla’s family would like to thank the staff of Artis Senior Living in Branford for their wonderful care and support for the past few years.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.

A memorial service and Celebration of Life will be announced at a future date. Arrangements in care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.

See Obituaries page 11

SPONSORED CONTENT:

Find Obituaries

Posted Daily Online

While our press schedule often does not allow us to publish death notices in time to announce memorial services, readers can find obituaries posted to the The Source website, www.zip06. com, five days a week as they arrive.

Stories and features denoted with the Shore Publishing “Sponsored” icon are sponsored by advertisers. Sponsored content is content created or commissioned by advertisers in collaboration with Shore Publishing’s marketing team. As with all advertising, sponsored content does not necessarily reflect the views of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing will ensure the treatment and design of Advertising and Sponsored Content is clearly differentiated from its editorial content.

Contacting The Source

As your hometown paper, The Source welcomes reader contributions and questions. If it’s important to you, we want to know about it. Here are the best ways to bring matters to our attention.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR TheSourceencourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues.

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

Letters must be 300 words or fewer and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Letter writers may be asked to supply sources to corroborate information presented as fact in letters.

Civility is required. Letters with personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined.

For letters endorsing a political candidate, Shore Publishing will accept one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections to allow for candidate rebuttal.

Letters must be received and verbally confirmed by 5 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Publication is subject to approval by the editor.

Letter writers who knowingly violate this policy three times will be banned from submitting future letters to the editor.

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

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

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

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

ADVERTISING To speak with someone about newspaper and online advertising, contact the Sales Department at advertising@shorepublishing.com or 203-245-1877. All advertising is subject to the approval of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing shall have the right to revise, reject or cancel, in whole or in part, any advertisement at any time for any or no reason.

LEGAL NOTICES To place a legal notice, email legal@theday.com or call 860-701-4410.

CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad in the Classifieds section or in the Classifieds Service Directory, call 860-701-4200 and/or email classifiedads@theday.com.

CIRCULATION To speak with someone about receiving or canceling the paper, please call 203-245-1877, ext. 6 or email shorecirculation@shorepublishing.com.

The Source

200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 news@shorepublishing.com 203-245-1877

Fax 203-245-9773

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

The Madison Ambulance Association extends its heartfelt thanks to all the residents and community members of our Town who so generously donated from February 2025 to October 2025. Madison EMS is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization providing 24/7 emergency ambulance service. While we are not a Town entity, the Town of Madison provides significant financial support; our ability to recover all of the costs is limited by State and Federal regulations. Resident contributions help us to reduce this situation, and we say “Thank you!”

We apologize if we have misspelled any names, we did our best to proof our list! For information on making a Legacy Gift through your estate, please call. 9 Old State Hwy 79, Madison, CT • 203-245-9821

Gary Platt

Michael D. Johnson

Frances N. Blackwood

Tim & Barbara Carney

Nancy Riese Daly

Susan G. Weil Heiden

Kadamus Charitable Fund

Freeman R. & Mary B. Smith

Louis J. & Patricia C. Tempel

The Davis Family Fund Inc.

The Pestcoe Family Foundation

Marsena P. & Barbara L. Campbell

Daniel E. & Diane J. Dolan

E. Foden

Mahlon S. & Mary Jean Hale

Thomas Holloway

Wade Kennedy & Robin Rosenthal

Kenneth H. & Carolyn E. Lombardo

Edward G. Riley

David Rogers

William P. & Susan H. Ryan

Maryann Salatto

Peter Scranton

The Madison Foundation

Neal Thomas

Earl & Mary Tucker

Weiss Family Gift Fund

Elizabeth Weitzman

Andrew & Emma’s Charity Fund

Rita A. Amaio

Mr. & Mrs. Becker

Ryan Duques

Essex Savings Bank

Lauren J. P. Geary

Nadine Genesius

Frank W. & Lynn L. King Charitable Fund

Jonathan & Katherine King

Michael J. Klingensmith

Richard S. Kosmala

Michele Kottage

Mary Ann E. Kozma

Darren Kramer

Kenneth P. & Catherine Kramer

John J. & Diane M. Kraska

David & Karole J. Kreutter

Kenneth R. & Janet I. Kuebler

James W. & Joann M. Kupiec

James M. & Lorraine G. Kuryan

James J. & Barbara Kyle

Gary D. & Susan Labovich

Kevin S. & Stacey D. Lafferty

Patricia Lagasse

Gregory K. & Anna Marie Lane

Brian Langille

Robert M. Lanza

William H. Laroza

Barbara G. Laudano

Elizabeth J. Lavelle

Charles W. & Roxann G. Lehberger

Richard & Janet Lehmann

Thomas L. Lemley

Karen Lennon

R. Brian & Cecelia W. Lenoci

Emma Leonard

Chadi Letayf

Donald W. Liepelt

A.D. Lopes

Michael M. & Suzanne Maney

James McEwen

Thomas G. Merrill & Mary Beth Forshaw

Joseph & Mary Migliaro

National Enterprise Solutions Inc.

Norman J. & Janice Pastorek

Eric R. & Lorrie L. Peterson

Herbert P. Jr. & Jacqueline G. Peterson

Stuart & Margaret Rattray

Drs. Nicholas & Nancy Robert

Everett J. & Carol Ann Rutan, III

Joshua A. Schulman & Andrea Schreiber

Margaret Dunn Smith Family Foundation

Suburban Consultants of Conn, LLC.

Charles R. & Lynda Z. Tyson

John A. Vincze

Patricia Walsh

Leo White

Francine M. Aceto

Jorge & Lee Adrian

Eric M. & Moriah R. Agovino

Kimberly Agresta

Sami A. & Patricia F. Akel

David R. & April D. Allen

J.B. & Sarah Allin

Wilfred & Lois Aloe

Thomas & Susan Alpert

Michael Alston

Carol L. Altieri

Louis & Jennifer S. Altschuler

Andrea Ambrose

Deborah H. Anderson

Francis & Carole Angelino

Harold A. & Mary Ann Annicelli

Mark W. & Virginia Armitage

Mary F. Ashton

Elizabeth Attebery

Eric & Rochelle Axberg

Donald & Ruthann Aylor

Lucy Ann Bach

David F. Bagdasarian

Jim Ballentine

Walter E. Barker, III

Adrian E. Bassett Trust

Antonio C. & Eva V. Batista

Douglas C. & June M. Bavin

Veron & Mary Beatrice

Craig V. & Laura J. Becker

Beebe Marine, LLC

Louise Beecher

Julie Belcher

David H. Bell

Henry C. & Mary Ann Benham

Edward L. & K. A. Bennett

Thomas P. Bennincas, Jr.

David & Gillian

Berchowitz Fund

Bonnie Bernal

Peter Bialobrzeski

Mr. & Mrs. Blake

Allison Blake

Roland C. & Andrea M. Blakeslee

Beverly Bluemling

Vincent E. Borgese

Marguerite M. & John J. Bowes

James Boyle

Susan M. Bradley

Edward B. & Lynne C. Bradstreet Trust

Francis Brady

Barbara Brainard

Dr. Myron & Mrs. Sandra Brand

Vincent J. & Patricia K. Brandi

Philip Brannigan

Carol Brennan

Robert Broach

Wendy Dubois

Brockman Trust

Robert M. & Linda B. Brown

Robin Brown

James V. & Victoria H. Bruni

Michael D. & Loralee C. Bruskin

Kenneth Bucko

Spider Bulyk

Helen E. & Lisa M. Burkarth

Thomas F. & Helen C. Burland

Reni Butler

Donald P. Cameron III

John G. & Valerie J. Campanelli

James P. & Lisa H. Cantery

Gerald Cap

Janis Caplan

Eugene G. & Mary P. Caputo, Jr.

Renee Carlisle

Robert W. & Diane B. Carpenter

Peter J. Carpenter

James J. & Doris E. Carr

Daniel F. & Janis F. Carroll

William Carroll

Jane L. Carroll

Thomas J. & Susan J. Cartledge

Michelle Caruso

James Caspi

Ann S. Cassidy

Josephine A. Cavallaro & Jacqueline L. Ganem

Marie E. & Jeffrey A. Centrone

Robert Chaderchian

Robert D. & Nancy A. Chapman

Karen Chapman

John C. Chapman

Patricia A. Charters

Robert S. & Heather C. Ciosek

Lawrence N. & Barbara N. Ciotti

Christine A. Cirmo & Christine M. Fitzgerald

Charles & Elaine W. Clark

William H. & Corinna P. Clendenen

Philip A. Clorite

Roberta K. Coburn

Peter G. & Rebecca B. Coffey

Lloyd Cohee

David P. & Ingrid M. Collins

John A. Colonese

David B. & Marjorie A. Colton

Patrick R. & Joanne T. Combs

Robert G. & Dorcas A. Comstock

Catherine Connell-Lindquist

Inger Connery

Dennis M. & Barbara Connolly

George K. & Joanne Contopoulos

Judith A. Cook

Albert & Marilyn S. Coppola

Paul J. Eileen G. Coppola

Gerald & Ramona Coppola

Sarah Corning

Patricia A. Corradino

Charles J. Corso

Anita R. Costanzo

Barbara L. Cottrell

Ryan & Lindsay Coughlin

Charles J. Crawley, Jr.

Edward C. & Susan Cronin

Robert T. & Janet S. Crook

Kent W. & Catherine R. Crook

John W. & Anne B. Cropp

Dennis & Louise Crowe

Constance Cummings

Jocelyn G. Cunningham

Paul & Vera DaCorte

Maureen Dalton

Louis & Donna L. D’Amore

Richard J. & Virginia Daniels

Sheila Davidson

Thomas H. & Joan M. Davidson

James A. & Gail A. Davidson

Andrew Davis

Graham & Alexandra Davis

Carolyn L. Dean

De Barbieri & Associates

Lawrence & Tammy C. DeFrancesco

Phylis R. Delvecchio

Donald J. & Barbara C. DeRosa

Brian W. Desmond

Anthony D. & Carol Tichy Dicorleto

Paul Dietrich

Vincent Diglio

Tony J. D’Occhio, D.M.D., LLC

Kieran Doherty

William O. Doll

Pat Donahue

Daniel P. & Patricia L. Donnelly

Patricia M. Donohue

Sunny Donovan

William J. & Laura B. Downes

Jeffrey L. & Jacqueline N. Downes

Mark J. & Ann E. Drabinski

James J. & Lisa M. Drum

Robert & Clare Dube

Theresa Duffy

Marcia Dumond

Alberta A. Dupuis

Carey R. Duques

Louis A. & Wendy B. Duques

Michel & Susan L. Duques

Dennis P. Durante

John J. & Kathleen M. Durkin

Peter & Elyn Dworak

Ralph M. & Connie K. Dykstra

Allison Edwards

Edwards Marine

Enterprises LLC

Maureen L. Egan

Joan B. Elder

Lori Elia

Doreen P. Elia

Pasquale J. & Dolores Elliano

James J. & Julie A. Elting

John F. & Carolyn Eltzholtz

Lucinda Thomas Embersits

John R. Ericson

Andrew & Claudia Esposito

Stephen D. & Margo G. Eule

Natalie H. Evans

Susan B. Fabricant

Thomas G. & Phyllis Fahy

Tina-Marie Fallon

Donna Farrell

Thornton J. & Susan N. Fay, Jr.

Rebecca Ferguson

Lou & Melissa Ferrara

Debbie Reemsnyder Fetherston Felberbaum Family Charitable Fund

J.R. Filbey

Daniel P. & Nancy Finke

Ramona R. & Robert J. Fiondella

Roger & Donna Fiondella

Brian T. & Katherine M. Fischer

Richard C. & Clara B. Flath

Patricia A. Florio Trust

Allyn & Dorcas C. Fontaine

Alan C. & Maureen E. Ford

Melody Forest

James & Barbara E. Francese, Jr.

William Friedman

John M. & Kathryn J. Fuchs

Fred A. & Maureen M. Fuest, Jr.

Continued On Next Page

Frederic W. & Linda K. Fuller, III

Peter R. Furmick

Dennis & Patricia A. Gallagher

Paula Gallagher & William J. Johnson, Jr.

D.M. Garrity

Marion S. Garsten

Mary L. Gaskell

Martin E. & Jenny R. Gerst

Barbara N. & Lane W. Gesner

Barbara G. Gibson

Andrea N. Giles

Elizabeth M. Gill

William Gill, Jr.

Bill Gladstone

Kingsley Goddard

Robert T. & Marilyn S. Goodwin

Margaret Goralski

D.R. Gordon

Grant S. Gould

Robert P. & Lorraine C. Graham

Gary T. & Kathleen A. Gray

Warren D. & Janet K. Greenwood

Geoffrey G. & Donna L. E. Gregory

Peter Griffith

Martha Gross

Alan & Sherie Groves

Labon D. Guardiano

Robert P. & Robert P. Guerette

Joseph & Kelly Guliano

Pauline S. Hale

Mark S. & Debra Halvorsen

Gail C. Hanke & Karen H. Healey

Shirley K. Ham

Mary Hammel

James P. & Sandra Hanrahan

Mary Ann Harmuth

Linda K. Harrington

Clifford Haslam

Carolann E. Hauburger & Anne M. Cummings

Stephen T. & Maryjo T. Marra Hauser

Pamela A. & John C. Hayden

Edward A. & Carol L. Hayduk

Dunnith R. & Sharon O. Heenan, Jr.

Nicholas W. & Elizabeth B. Heery

Raymond W. Hencir

Susan Hennessey

Lisa Abroms Herz, LCSW

Emile O. Hick

Patricia G. Hill

Edward M. & Theresa O. Hoefer

David Homer

Robert E. & Ethel C. Hone

Susanna Hong

Catharine W. Hopkins

Richard J. & Margaret F. Hopkins

Margaret F. Hopkins

Kevin M. Johnson & Laura J. Horvath

Thomas P. & Patricia M. Hudson

Anne Hull

Joanne M. Hutchins

Madhu & Suresh Jain

Laura Jarett

Brook M. & Jodie L. Jerzyk

Frank Jones

Dr. Frank & Iris M. Jones

Mark E. & Patricia C. Jooss

Robert C. & Ellen T. Jordan

Bruce C. & Mary L. Joslyn

Michael J. & Karen L. Joura

Marika B. Joyner

Siegfried K. & Lorraine M. June

Rita E. Juzwiakowski

Carollyn Kahler

Dr. Gary J. & Mrs. Nadine A. Kaml

Richard S. Kane

Dr. Lee D. & Mrs. Lauragene L. Katz

K & H Pest Management

Judith Keane

Kearney Insurance Agency, LLC

William P. & Peggy A. Keenan

Brian Douglas Keeney

David W. & Barbara A. Keiser

Dennis L. & Karen Kelly

Susan D. Kelly

Jane C. Ketterer

K.F. Schwanfelder Co.

Nancy L. Kiernan

Dr. Jeffrey J. & Mrs. Susan P. Klass

George A. & Susan L. Klug

Helen Z. Kobernusz

Judith A. Koch

Arthur L. & Lorraine C. Koczak

George C. & Jutta K. Kohn

Steven Korn

Trace A. Landino & Grace Urban

John & Deborah Lettieri

James R. Leva

Jane M. Lewis

Ellen Lipschitz & Christine Lasala

Chuni Lin

Frederick G. Lindquist Trust

Alan Lipman

Shelley R. Lipman

Walter S. Lippman

Jessica Littell & Gerald Birnbaum

Little Colony Company, Inc

Karen A. Living Trust

Kathleen Anne Logiodice

Roy J. & Barbara G. Longo

David Longobucco

Stephen & Linda Lee Lowrey

John A. & Janice Lucchesi

J. K. Luckenbach

Jon Lukomnik & Lynn Davidson

Aviva D. Luria & Matthew J. Enjalran

Michael J. & Deborah D. Lynch

Edmond F. & Marilyn H. Lyon, Sr.

Robert Lyons

Teresa M. MacDonald

Hugh C. Mackenzie Trust

Joe & Rose Maco

Frank & Lauren Macri

Kathy Maher

Virginia E. Maloney

Ann Mamula

Nancy M. Mann

Emil A. & Berit C. Manna

William J. & Shirley S. March

George & Kathy S. Marinelli

Mary A. Marshall & Marvin E. Crim, Jr.

Howard W. Maseles

John L. Mathieu, Sr.

James K. & Diane L. Matteson

Guy Matthies

Mary Ann O. McAvoy

Paul L. & Barbara McCarthy

Rita D. McCarthy

James J. & Anne B. McCarthy, III

Thomas D. & Colleen McCormick, Jr.

Thomas J. & Gail A. McGrimley

Mary Ellen McGuire

Michael J. & Sandra T. McKinnon

Alexander & Jean E. McKissick

Robert H. & Jane E. McLeod

Robert E. & Lauren W. McManus

Elizabeth R. McManus

Dennis A. McNamara

Maria McNeil

William P. Meehan

Michael L. & Mary E. Megargee

K.I. & Helen Melandis

Anthony Melillo & Eva Sapi

Duane Mellor

Lawrence & Joyce Merola

Judith M. Merriam

Milano Properties LLC

Gregg & Karen Miller

Linda Mingione

Josephine D. Mokriski

Paul E. & Patricia A. Monaghan

Michael C. & Aileen C. Moriarty

Robert A. & Joan L. Mormile

Arline Morrissey & Kirsten Daly

Barbara K. Mulford

Cindi Mullins

Daniel F. & Nancy S. Mulvey

Jennifer & Eric Munro

Kenneth J. Munro, Jr.

Frederick P. & Pauline C. Murphy

T.J. & Lorraine A. Murphy

Bryan & Alison Murphy

Thomas & Jeanette Mursko

Michael T. & Robin C. Murtha

Fred Muzer

Edward J. & Barbara Naclerio

Frank J. Navario

Kevin P. & Joanne M. Nee

Amen & Jocelyn Ness

Cynthia Nethercut & Joseph Altonji

David & Katherine Newton

Michael Nicoini

Michael J. & Holly A. Nicoletti

Michael Nicolini

Dennis A. Noe & Karen M. Kumor

Marilee B. Noonan

Patrick Noonan & Denise Doyle

Shannon Noonan & Brian Bergeron

Fred Nuss

Chris & Bonnie Nuzzo

Michael J. O’Connor

Margaret O’Connor

Thomas L. & Cathleen A. O’Dea

Elwood C. & Ellen C. Olson, Jr.

Peter L. & Lynette B. Omdahl

Frank J. O’Neill

Juko Otsuki & Tracey Wilds

Leon D. & & Dorothy A. Palmer

Laura L. Palumbo

Mark Pantall

Susan Embree Parker

Clara Joy Parker

Stefanie E. Parkyn

Lillian C. Parmelee

Patricelli Family Foundation

Myron L. & Janet P. Patrick

Frederick C. & Kathryn A. Pechar

Bert & Janice Pellegrini

Reno & Barbara Pelletier

Joseph F. Pelliccione

Frank Penna

Gerald Peregolise

Edward B. Peritz

Perrelli Family Trust

Cynthia Jeanne Perry

Susan Persing

Peter S. & Maria C. Pertoso

Mark E. & Katherine A. Peters

Charlotte Peterson

Dwight R. & Susan H. Peterson

Joseph A. Peterson & Regina M. John

Karin L. Peterson Trust

Paul Petrie

Cecilia J. Pfister

Renee Phillips

Robert J. & Diana Piagentini

Michael Piccione

Martha Picone

Blase P. & & Dianne Picone, Jr.

William H. & Marion W. Piggott

L. Stanley & Dolores E. Pinover

Elaine M. Piotroski

Charles & Jonathan C. Ponzo

Peter R. Porrino

Helen A. Powers

Joan Powers

Michael W. & Kathleen M. Pratt

Edythe T. Preskar & Barbara A. Corsello

A.V. & Andrea Puglia

Reuven Rabinovici

Jeffrey V. Rabuffo, MD

Paul J. & Barbara P. Racette

Agnes Stapleton Rath

RCR Enterprises, LLC

Peter J. Regan

Allen Reider

Kathleen E. Diana Reilly

Barbara J. Reilly

William F. & Ellyn A. Reilly, Jr.

Elaine Reitman

Jeanne Ann & Keith S. Rennie

Jack Reynolds

Virginia Reynolds

Perry D. & Susan C. Rianhard

John N. & Emily N. Rich

Jack & Susan B. Richter

Thomas & Patricia Riley

James Rinere

Joanne K. Roberts

Judith L. Robinson

Henry O. & Carol C. Robinson, II

John Rockwell

Bruce & Nancy Rosenblatt

Lewis Rosenblum

Ronald S. & Katherine K. Rothenberg

Roton Associates

Kathleen Rourke

Gerald & Joyce G. Rourke

James J. Ruddy

Myron Rudner

Robert C. & Judith Ruggiero

Patricia Rutlin

David & Suzanne C. Sack

Adam & Corrine B. Salvo

Richard E. & Colleen Sardi

Lisa & Stephen D. Sarfaty

Anthony J. & Lynn M. Sasso

David R. & Margaret M. Sawyer

Christine Scarice

C. Schechter

Amy Scheiss

Sharon Schmidt

Michael J. & Cynthia L. Schneider

William R. Schoen & Rosemary A. Duthie

Dr. Charles F. & Mrs. Susan C. Scholhamer, Jr.

Angela L. Schmidt & Angela S. Carroll

William Schweizer & Judith Andrews

Shoreline Diesel LLC

Cheryl A. Schultz

John Schwartz

Mark Scofield

Meghan Scorza

Merrilee Shannon

Peter J. Shuman

Richard B. Sica

Thomas. Sieminksi

Singleton Family Trust

Marsha Silverman & Thomas T. Brunelle

Gerald M. & Doris L. Simonides

Robert & Patricia H. Sjogren

Schuyler Smith

Robert C. Smith, Sr.

Carol E. Snow

Marcia G. Sokolnicki

Constance Holden Somers

Curtis & Ann Sorensen

Scott & Susan Sporn

Bill Sprague

William K. Stableford

Leona S. Stec & Donna R. Marcinek

Michael Stella

Matthew C. & Jeanne W. Stevens

Thomas D. & Jeanne L. Stewart

Martha Gay Stewart

Rod Stewart

Richard R. & Sylvia Stillwell

Patricia A. Stiso

Bonnie F. Stoddard

Herbert T. & Cynthia M. Straub

David M. & Linda Sullivan

Henry T. Sullivan & Gayle M. Murphy

Robert P. & Mary C. Suzio

Jill Mauro Sweet

Arthur & Jane Symonds

Megan W. Szczesny

Romayne Tabaka

Anthony T. & Cynthia J. Tavella, III

John D. & Judith Tewksbury

Douglas Thistle

Ruth Anne Thompson

Sarah Tierney

Gary M. & Dawn L. Tiscia

Robert W. & Leonora D. Tobin

Frank J. & Nancy B. Tordoff

Matthew B. & Joan M. Townley

William L. Tuthill

Lorraine Tvrdik

Jeffrey S. & Beth Anne Twohill

Florence V. Vaccaro & Jodi Morrison

Helen C. Van Antwerp

Edwin P. & Barbara L. Varley

Carolyn Varone

Joan M. Vegso

Mark C. & Roberta C. Velez

Maureen K. Vernon

Jane Vincent

David & Caryl Viola, Jr.

Elpedio N. & Robin B. Vitale

N.R. & K.L. Walker

James & Patricia A. Walsh

Dorothy V. & Owen B. Walsh

Joseph F. Walton

Jacqueline Ward

Linda Wehnert

Ronald & Lori Weingarten

Morgan S. & Angela Werner

Patricia West

James & Rosemary Whelan

Mark J. & Claudia S. White

Douglas J. Whiting & Maureen McLellan

James R. & Christine Wiebe

Charlotte W. Wiesbrock

John W. & Coleen O. Wiesbrock

Phyllis Wigham

J.S. Wik

Horace C. & Joanne B. Wilcox III

Pat Williams

Mary H. Wilson & Heather M. Rosenquist

Emil R. & Cheryl Wohlgemuth, II

William & Dani Linn Woods

Ralph Wygonik

Ronald Wygonik

Robert Yanzer & Alicia DeSanto

Edward M. & Theresa O. Yates

Nancy Davidson Young

Young’s Village, LLC

Mark H. & Mary P. Zagorski

Theodore A. & Catherine C. Zarembo

Kenneth B. Zercie

Mary Ann C. Zieger

Christina Zimmerman

Jerry Zinser & Pamela Tatge

Mary Zoeckler

Daniel E. & Susan H. Zsebik

Maybeth C. Zuber

Patsy L. & Helen M. Zumpano

RUGS & UGGS

Selectmen Outline Budget, Capital Priorities

seeing more speeding and then there’s just a lot of more administrative work that the troopers have to do.”

Recognizing the doubled expenses of the police budget in Killingworth, Couture said “it would be more expensive to introduce constables, even with one and a half constables.”

He continued, “You’re looking at a cost that is far in excess of what a trooper costs. The town would then be responsible for insurance, any equipment, training, all the other ancillary things that are covered under the state trooper program that, currently, we don’t have to bear those costs.”

Other areas of interest for the selectmen include finding ways to capitalize on economic development along the shoreline. Couture said “we’re seeing more business on the shore, some of that is creeping north to Killingworth.”

In response, the board may look at the possibility of beefing up its staffing in the building and finance departments “to take some of the load off for current staffing,” said Couture.

The selectmen are considering budgeting for consulting from the Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments on how to be prepared for economic activity that finds its way from neighboring towns.

“We don’t have a huge amount of economic development in Killingworth, but it helps to be prepared,” said Couture. “I suggested on Monday night eight hours a month (for economic planning). Which sounds like not a lot. But for Killingworth, that’s more economic development planning than has been done in years.”

Digitization at town hall is another area of interest for the next fiscal year budget. Couture said the town is rolling out new budgeting and permitting software which should support its 20 full-time employees, and is looking at acquiring asset management software that can provide details on various infrastructure such as the condi-

Continued from page 4 The Estuary, 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, offers wellness services to adults aged 50 and over living in the estuary region. Services are by appointment and include footcare (Mondays), haircuts (Tuesdays and Thursdays), massage (first Tuesday of each month), Medicare counseling (first Tuesday of each month), hearing clinics (last Wednesday of each month), and mental health support. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 860-388-1611, ext. 202.

tion of roads and the number of catch basins. Such software can help towns to “better plan out maintenance and capital,” said Couture.

The cost for installing the asset software system ranges from $20,000 to $80,000 and depends upon the selected vendor. The cost range for the budgeting and permitting software is undetermined

In the area of capital spending, recreation is top of mind with the town looking to update the playground at Sheldon Park, which is part of a broader multi-year $125,000 plan for renovations at the park.

The town is also looking at new lighting at Rocco M. Reale Memorial Field, which may present a challenge for the town as they would have to overcome a municipal ordinance that prohibits the construction of lighting over 35 feet, said Couture. The cost for new lighting, estimated at $125,000, is planned for the succeeding budget in 2027.

Public safety also presents itself as an area of interest in capital spending. This includes plans to “reintroduce architectural work for a new firehouse,” said Couture, a stage that may cost $35,000 but may change. The current firehouse is too small for the department’s needs, emphasized when the town had to reject a bid for a new fire truck for being too large to fit within the current facility.

Couture envisions that once the current firehouse is left empty, it could provide new space as a community center used for several functions. With certain processes like voting, the food pantry and other community service work spread out throughout the town, the firehouse could one day concentrate multiple activities and forms of volunteerism in one building.

“We have voting at the school. That can be problematic for scheduling with students in elementary school,” he said. “And the food pantry is right on the circle, which is always a nightmare to get into and out of during certain times of the day. So there are better options.”

Town of Madison Notice of Application for Demolition Permit

Notice is hereby given that Fisher Excavating Inc has filed an application with the Madison Building Official for approval to demolish the building or structure described below:

Year Built: 1920

Address: 117 Buffalo Bay, Madison, CT 06443

Name of Building Owner: Helen Maher

Address of Building Owner: 117 Buffalo Bay, Madison, CT 06443

Age of Building: 106 years

Further information concerning this pending application may be obtained by contacting the Land Use Office at (203) 245-5632.

Any objection to the demolition of the above building or structure must be filed in writing on the required form with the Land Use Office within forty-five (45) days of the publication of this notice in order to prevent the shortening of the waiting period established by the Town Ordinance.

Dated at Madison, Connecticut, this 12th day of January, 2026

Nicholas Fischer, Branford, CT

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF MADISON

A certified list of Thirty (30) Democratic party-endorsed candidates for the Town of Madison for election as Members of the Town Committee At-Large is on file in my office at 8 Campus Dr., Madison, CT and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee Members to be elected, under party rules, is Thirty (30).

A Primary will be held March 3, 2026, if Eight (8) candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of town committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with Sec. 9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, not later than 4:00 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates exceeds the number of town committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held).

Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies may be obtained from Jim Newton, Democratic Registrar of Voters, 8 Campus Dr., Madison, CT 06443.

Nancy J. Martucci, CCTC, CMC

Madison Town Clerk

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF MADISON

A certified list of Thirty-five (35) Republican party-endorsed candidates for the Town of Madison for election as Members of the Town Committee At-Large is on file in my office at 8 Campus Dr., Madison, CT and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee Members to be elected, under party rules, is Forty-two (42).

A Primary will be held March 3, 2026, if Eleven (11) candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of town committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with Sec. 9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, not later than 4:00 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates, exceeds the number of town committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held).

Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies may be obtained from Greg Scalzo, Republican Registrar of Voters, 8 Campus Dr., Madison, CT 06443.

Nancy J. Martucci, CCTC, CMC

Madison Town Clerk

Selectmen to Deliberate New Academy Proposals

apartment complex with multiple community offerings and a Stowed proposal to create a boutique hotel at the long-vacant site.

Montagno’s proposal is estimated to cost over $14 million, while Stowed’s proposal is estimated at over $68 million. Both projects, including Stowed’s more expensive proposal, plan to utilize the state Department of Economic and Community Development’s Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit incentives as part of the construction costs.

These incentives require developers to maintain the historic character of a preexisting building that will be renovated into a living space. Through their proposals, both vendors are projecting greater economic growth for Madison in the form of higher tourism, small business development, and millions of dollars in new tax revenue for the town.

The proposal from Montagno includes 28 deed-restricted apartments in the form of workforce housing intended for essential workers such as teachers, nurses, and service staff. Montagno estimates rent ranges from $1,056 to $1,140 per month.

Montagno’s leader Robert Letskus, a

Madison resident, spoke solemnly of providing affordable living spaces for essential workers in a town with a relatively higher cost of living.

“These are the people who help our communities thrive,” said Letskus. “You shouldn’t have to work three jobs to live in Madison.”

Plans also include a retail market space for small businesses, a seasonal rooftop restaurant, a dual welcoming center and performing arts center, and fiber internet offices. Between the existing baseball fields and the building will be 57 parking spots for tenants and other building users.

For its development, Montagno is offering the town $1 million to purchase 30% of the land, including the ground underneath the developed space. The offer to the town is negotiable, said Letskus. The offer, as part of Montagno’s current proposal, may be better than the alternative of demolishing the building, which Letskus estimates may cost taxpayers $3.7 million over ten years.

Alternatively, Montagno’s development may generate $2.28 million in tax-generated income over a decade, according to figures the company provided. Numbers were derived from several calculations on the project such as a $1.25 million valua-

tion on the seasonal restaurant and $577,690 on the apartments, accounting for a 3% increase each year.

Millions in taxes and through other revenue streams could come to Madison through the development of The Academy Hotel. Stowed, the vendor behind the proposed luxury-branded project, estimates a “meaningful economic growth” project that contributes up to $5 million in annual property taxes and visitor spending revenue, along with 50 new full-time jobs at the hotel. Stowed estimates the annual property tax revenue to be $1 million, according to figures provided by company president Ashley Rocha-Rinere.

Madison’s current mill rate is 22.43.

The land beneath the hotel will remain owned by the town, towards whom Stowed will pay a long-term ground lease.

Stowed expressed confidence in the ability of the hotel’s contribution towards significant economic growth, pointing out that the boutique hospitality sector has been one of the biggest driving forces behind growth in communities across the country, a trend that is expected to continue over the next five years. Boutique hotels also accounted for Connecticut’s rebounding tourism sector, for which the state Office of Tourism has measured

levels of activity surpassing those before 2020.

Building plans for the hotel call for the construction of a new Colonial-style building attached to the left side, toward the building’s rear. In this structure would be 62 luxury rooms, four residential spaces, and a rooftop bar. Rocha-Rinere said she and her colleagues at Stowed are “very open to engaging” with Madison residents and local architects to ensure the new structure fits with the town’s character.

The hotel’s lobby would be a corridor between the new and the existing structure. The latter would have common hotel accommodations such as a restaurant, a club lounge, private and public event space, and a courtyard.

The hotel would be operated by an independent management group, said RochaRinere, a Madison native. Recognizing the concern some may have towards this arrangement, Rocha-Rinere said “As the developer, we carry the burden of finding an operator who is aligned with our vision and is able to execute” the company’s plans.

Several residents made comments following the presentations, with some

Obituaries Continued from page 5

Emilie Owen Hick of Madison passed away peacefully the night of Dec, 31st, 2025. She spent her final evening enjoying a warm, buttered lobster roll, clam chowder and a beer before she passed comfortably in bed.

Emilie, a long-time resident of Madison, was the first child of Emilie (Boston) and Henry Owen, born on Feb. 4, 1940, in a small hospital off of the Guilford Green. She was lovingly nick-named “Pinkie” at birth by her uncle who remarked at how perfect and rather pink she was.

Emilie grew up on East Wharf Road with her Irish twin, younger brother, Henry Owen. She attended Daniel Hand K-12 in what would later become Academy Street School. During her school years, she worked downtown at the Madison Cinema and participated in multiple clubs and sports teams. She was deeply loved by her classmates and in her senior year, was named Prom Queen and voted “Friendliest” “Most Popular,” and “Best Dressed” by her graduating Class of 1958. Her senior yearbook tribute described her as

“always on the go,” “keeps her class running smoothly” and “has a passion for wearing Bermuda shorts,” traits that would remain true for the rest of her life.

As a teenager, Emilie met Ron Hick on East Wharf Beach, a meeting that marked the beginning of a loving, devoted 62 years of marriage. Together, they raised three daughters, Tracy (Bob) Lizotte of Killingworth, Carrie Hick (Kevin Coley) of Madison and Barbara (Jim) Waters of Madison.

Emilie, Ron and their girls lived in Atlanta, GA and Charlotte, NC, before eventually settling in Avon. Emilie was fiercely dedicated to her family and spent her years as a home maker raising her three daughters. The Hick family spent their summers at East Wharf Beach sailing, water skiing and chatting with family and friends across sandy beach towels. They made it a priority to show their girls the country, loading up an RV for cross-country trips to explore national parks and monuments, or on charter boats in the Caribbean, all while creating lifetime memories along the way.

She worked alongside her husband flipping houses and later became an attendance clerk at Avon High School where she quickly earned the affection of the student body. She finished out her professional career at CT Asthma & Allergy Center as an office manager before retiring in 2002. In retirement, to subsidize her dry cleaning affliction, she could be found behind the counter at

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF MADISON PUBLIC HEARING

The legal voters of the Town of Madison are hereby warned and notified that the Capital Improvement Program Committee will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 6:00 p.m., in Town Campus Room A and Remotely via Zoom for the purpose of reviewing the Capital Improvement Plan process and to receive comments on future projects.

Zoom meeting details can be found on the town website at www.madisonct.org.

The Town of Madison does not discriminate on the basis of disability and the meeting facilities are ADA accessible. Individuals who need assistance are invited to make their needs known by contacting the Town at (203) 245-5644 “Telecommunication device for the deaf” (203) 245-5638 or by email to ferranted@madisonct.org at least five (5) business days prior to the meeting.

MADISON ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

At a regular hybrid meeting held on January 13, 2026, the Zoning Board of Appeals took the following actions:

25-08. 97 Hartford Avenue; Map 12, Lot 77, Zone: R-4; Owners: Alan Julius Swirski, Trustees of The Alan Julius Swirski 2020 Revocable Trust u/a/d January 22, 2020 and Sandra Green Swirski, Trustee of The Sandra Green Swirski 2020 Revocable Trust u/a/d January 22, 2020; as Tenants In Common; Variance request to Section 2.17 to allow 43.5ft setback to the critical coastal resource where 50ft is required. Application includes a Coastal Site Plan. APPROVED

Dated this 13th day of January, 2026

Maria Pettola, Land Use Official

Madison Dry Cleaners, working alongside Faye Erskine, both known to press their turtlenecks and jeans.

Ready to enjoy their golden years, Emilie and Ron returned to Madison to live in their beloved beach neighborhood on Hamilton Drive. As Emilie embraced retirement, she took on what would become her favorite role of all, proudly earning the title she cherished most, Nana, to her seven granddaughters: Madison (Silverman), Carson, Jordan (Victor), Emilie, Bridget, Paige, and Avery (Waters).

To know Emilie was to love her. She gave her all to everything she did and was widely regarded as a super woman or super nana.

She was an avid reader and a gifted gardener, blessed with a green thumb. She found joy in staying busy and was regularly found outside tending to her gardens. When not outside making piles of garden clippings, she could be found in her kitchen preparing food for family and friends or having coffee and a treat at the kitchen table with a neighbor. Her freezer was always stocked with popsicles and ice cream, fridge with coke, ice tea and beer and great snacks could be found in the cupboard. She will live on through her

many delicious recipes, always making sure her family was well fed, from meatloaf and meat sauce, to popovers, pancakes and French toast.

Emilie was the unwavering matriarch of the Hick Family, the cherished mayor of Hamilton Drive, and will be deeply missed by all who know her. She embodied warmth, wisdom, strength and selflessness, paired with quick wit and a playful sense of humor.

She is predeceased by her husband, Ronald Hick, who she lovingly and devotedly cared for until his passing in 2022; and her younger brother, Henry Owen in 2018; and a lifetime of fourlegged companions. She is survived by her daughters, sons-in-law, seven granddaughters, many nieces and nephews who will remember her loving nature, an angel on earth. She leaves a lasting mark on everyone she met, and her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched; always clad in her signature Pinkie style: collared shirts, Bermuda shorts and boat shoes.

Emilie’s services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, at the First Congregational Church of Madison. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Madison Historical Society.

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of January 22 - January 28

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

You are unstoppable this week, Aries. Your famous pioneering spirit is magnified, giving you the green light for major breakthroughs. Take the lead in situations that excite you.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Prepare for a week of unexpected results, Taurus. A significant financial opportunity may appear out of the blue, or you might find yourself feeling extra secure at work.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, your social life is booming right now. You are a magnet for excellent ideas and exciting connections this week. Expect conversations that lead to professional opportunities.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Right now you are hitting a major professional high point, Cancer. All eyes are on you, and your efforts may lead to some well-deserved recognition and rewards.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Prepare for adventure this week, Leo. The cosmos is urging you to expand your horizons and seek new inspiration. Your optimism is contagious as you make your plans.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

This week brings a powerful sense of personal transformation and empowerment to you, Virgo. You have the energy to tackle complex matters and emerge feeling stronger and wiser.

JANUARY 22

Caitlin Clark, Athlete (24) JANUARY 23

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, your relationships are very strong this week. You’ll find mutual respect and exciting shared goals through these alliances. If you’re single, expect an unforgettable encounter.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

This week is perfect for optimizing your work-life flow and implementing small changes that will yield huge, positive results, Scorpio. You may need help mapping out goals.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, your sector of creativity, fun and romance are illuminated this week. Plan a date, unleash your artistic side or simply dedicate time to pure play. Delightful experiences await.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Home is the launchpad for success this week, Capricorn. Focus on developing your domestic environment. A refresh or redecoration can work wonders, especially to banish cabin fever.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Prepare for several days of remarkable connections, Aquarius. Your ideas and innovative concepts are sharp, which will compel others to aspire to be in your orbit.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Your personal finances are set for an upward trajectory, Pisces. A new income stream may surface, or you might discover a hidden talent that you can monetize.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 26

Joseph Quinn, Actor (32) JANUARY 27

Mariska Hargitay, Actress (62) JANUARY 24

Neil Diamond, Singer (85) JANUARY 25

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Politician (48)

Bailey Zimmerman, Singer (26) JANUARY 28

J Cole, Rapper (41)

CLUES ACROSS

1. Mechanical lever

7. Rocky peak

10. Leave a country

12. Discount

13. D.C. ballplayer

14. Partner to “oohed”

15. Engine sound

16. Japanese ornamental box

17. Fido is one

18. Amounts of time

19. DiFranco and Phyo are two

21. Yearly tonnage (abbr.)

22. Make secret plans

27. “Tiny Bubbles”Ó singer

28. “His Airness”

33. Morning

34. Perfected

36. Winger guitarist Beach

37. Abba __, Israeli politician

38. Self-immolation by fire ritual

39. A way to save money

40. Pulpit

41. Make ecstatically happy

44. Once more

45. Works on

48. Nocturnal S. American rodent

49. State again

50. Expression of disappointment

51. Type of door

CLUES DOWN

1. Yugoslavian communist leader

2. Exchange rate

3. High school dance

4. Peter’s last name

5. When you anticipate arriving

6. Israeli city __ Aviv

7. Goat-like mammals

8. Margarine

9. End-of-the-spectrum color

10. Make poisonous

11. Popular beverage

12. Actress Lathan

14. Where planes land and depart

17. Political fundraising entity

18. The distinctive spirit of a people or an era

20. Buffer used in microbiology

23. Light, open carriage

24. Metrical feet

25. Email subject line feature

26. A street with lots of nightmares

29. Rapper Rule

30. River in Scotland

31. One who settles a dispute

32. Most chummy

35. We all have our own

36. Arab tribe

38. Slap

40. Ottoman military commanders

41. Scottish or Irish Gaelic language

42. Emit coherent radiation

43. Sun or solar disk (Egyptian mythology)

44. Inclined to

45. Olfactory reference syndrome

46. Chest muscle (slang)

47. Body part

Word Search

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

LOG CABIN WORD SEARCH

ANTLERS AXE BEAR RUG CABIN CEDAR

CHIMNEY

CHINKING FIREPLACE

HEARTH

HOMESTEAD

LANTERN LODGE LOFT

LOGS

MANTEL NOTCHING

PANTRY

PORCH

RETREAT

ROCKING CHAIR

RUSTIC

TIMBER WOOD PILE WOODSTOVE

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for January 15, 2026: POLES

Word Search solution for January 15, 2026

Obituaries Continued from page 11

Obituary

Joseph Mauro Sr. Madison

Joseph R. Mauro Sr. died peacefully at home on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, after a long, courageous battle with Father Time.

He was born on Nov. 2, 1930, in Greenwich Village, N.Y., to Angelo and Kate Mauro.

He worked at a variety of companies throughout his career in the life insurance industry, landing at the World Headquarters of the Knights of Columbus in New Haven, in 1968. He retired from the Knights of Columbus in 2000 at the age of 70, continuing as a Member of the Board of Directors for several more years.

ance and Agencies, he traveled extensively and had a close relationship with the Vatican. As well as being a fourth degree Knight, he was awarded the title of Knight of Saint Gregory.

A devoted family man, he leaves behind his son, Joseph Jr. (Sue), Jaime (Mary Beth); his daughter-in-law Amy; his daughter Jill (Paul); his grandchildren: Chris, Tracey, Phoebe, Noah, and Ella; and his great-grandchildren, Jack and Owen. He was predeceased by his wife, Lois; his sons, John and Jason; as well as his grandson, Isaac. He is survived by his sisters, Marie Illuzzi and Dorothy Rosenberg.

Justin Brownell: Walking the Woods with Spirit

Continued from page 2

the commitment to my daughter and still being a good parent. That proved to be the genesis of my recovery. I didn’t want Kaya thinking I could not prevail. So, I set personal goals to begin the healing process and to ultimately still feel good about myself.”

And ironically enough, Justin also found inspiration from another familiar source.

“While at Yale-New Haven Hospital, I was reunited with my high school sweetheart, Adrenna, who was working there. She stayed by my side the whole time offering constant support. We are now engaged.”

strength, and transformation.”

And on the evening of Jan. 27, he will speak to the public about that very mantra, and how retaining a positive outlook has been especially reinforced via time spent in the outdoors. Trails made accessible by the Branford Land Trust will take center stage that night.

“I’ve gained a greater perspective on life now … A near-death experience can do that for you, and you realize the fragility of your own existence and how precious it truly is,” he explains.

During his tenure as Senior Executive Vice President in charge of Insur-

After School Skills 'n' Chills

A Mass of Celebration will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 17, at St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy Street, Madison. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are greatly appreciated.

Art and Soul Therapy presents After School Skills 'n' Chills on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Soul Voyage Trauma Center, 147 Durham Rd., Ste 13, Madison. The sessions are for creative, neurodivergent, and/or LGBTQ tweens and teens. The cost is $30 per session. For more information, contact 203-350-3717 or ArtandSoulCT@gmail.com.

TAX NOTICE-TOWN OF MADISON

The second installment of Real Estate and Personal Property tax on the 2024 Grand List is due January 1, 2026. Also due January 1, 2026 is full payment of motor vehicle tax on the Supplemental list of October 1, 2024. If any payment due January 1, 2026 is not paid or USPS postmarked on or before February 2, 2026, such tax becomes delinquent and subject to interest of 1 ½% per month or fraction thereof from the due date. Minimum interest $2.00.

Payment Information

• A secured “Tax Payment Drop Slot” is located on the exterior wall of the Tax Collector’s Office, left hand side of the Main Entrance across from the Police Department. Payments dropped off after normal business hours will be credited the next business day. The last day to pay without penalty in person is 4:30PM on February 2, 2026.

• To Pay by Mail: Make checks payable to Town of Madison, PO Box 587, Madison, CT 06443. We honor the USPS postmark. Payments postmarked on or before February 2, 2026 will be considered an on-time payment. Have your envelope hand-canceled at the US Post Office. Electronic bill pay services processed using your personal bank arrive via the US mail in an envelope bearing no postmark Please keep in mind if there is no postmark, timeliness depends solely upon our receipt of the payment.

• To pay by Credit, Debit or E-check visit www.madisonct.org/taxpayments or to pay by phone call 855-857-3353. Convenience fees apply. We do not take credit or debit cards at the office.

Town Hall hours are Mon-Thurs 8:30-4:30, Fri 8:30-Noon. Visit www.madisonct.org for changes in hours. Failure to receive a tax bill does not invalidate the tax. If you did not receive a tax bill, please call the Tax Office at 203-245-5641 or visit www.madisonct.org/tax

Christina Consiglio, CCMC Tax Collector

From tragedy to a fairy tale finish, Justin also reveals the immense positive level of support he has received from various organizations after being discharged from the hospital … and from people who had also dealt with the demands of overcoming debilitating injuries. One such organization is NO BARRIERS in Colorado … and Eric Weinmeyer, a blind skier who climbed Mount Everest.

A number of the organizations through which he has received support also offer grants and scholarships for adaptive equipment for participating in adventure sports. Justin has since become a triathlete and an avid mountain climber, among his athletic triumphs … and, as he terms it, “A better person.”

He maintains a mantra of his own now for his ongoing pursuit of a fulfilling life that keeps him from dwelling on the past and staying the course forward: “’Grit’ stuck in my mind for a framework that’s composed of grace, resolve, inner

Selectmen to Deliberate New Academy Proposals

Continued from page 10

critical towards redevelopment. Bruce Lockhart criticized the hotel proposal as an exclusive endeavor targeted at wealthy users, saying it would be unfavorable to small businesses on Boston Post Road.

“This facility is set up to spend every dollar in that hotel,” said Lockhart. “Somebody dropping $2,100 a night is not going to walk down the street to eat a pizza. They’re not going to buy clothing in Madison. The idea of building this thing and it’s going to enhance Madison - that’s a joke. It’s never going to work.”

Thomas Lee, who sits on the executive board at the Deacon John Grave House,

Having previously worked in television production, Justin now readies himself to utilize a degree in psychology from the University of Southern New Hampshire, as a therapist working with people who are undergoing trauma.

“I encourage people to.spend more time in the outdoors as the kind of place where they can benefit themselves. I have to say that the Forest is where I feel most at home.”

If anyone is in a position to speak in such wistful ways about the healing insights of nature itself, it surely must be this man who has faced the darkest of nights and now reflects on the absolute marvel of life … and with a rare vibrance and reverence. (Hopefully he will also someday do so in a book.)

For now, though, it will be articulated at the public gathering Jan. 27, where nature’s healing hands will be on full display, as the words of fabled naturalist and writer John Burroughs reverberate in the background:

“I go to Nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in tune once more.”

expressed support on behalf of the board for bringing new life into the “derelict” Academy building across the street from the historic house. While he said either option “is a good possibility,” he added a personal preference for a project that does not plan for expansion like the hotel.

“Our basic feeling is we would like to see something happen,” Lee said.

Madison residents are free to submit questions of the concepts to the town at the email address askacademy@madison ct.org. The presentations from Stowed and Montagno are available on the town’s website at https://www.madisonct.org/ 1434/Academy.

Shoreline Deck Company, LLC

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

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!

The Source

Valley Courier

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Hand’s Fast Start Puts Them in Prime Position for Postseason

The Daniel Hand girls basketball team has hit its stride as winter sports begin to hit the midseason point. The Tigers, who started the year off losing two out of their first three games, have managed to put it all together and have now won seven of their last eight games.

The team has reeled off victories against Cheshire, NFA, Guilford, East Haven, Jonathan Law, Lyman Hall, and, most recently, Wilbur Cross. The only loss in that span came in a 72-62 loss to West Haven.

Hand coach Tim Tredwell said the tough three-game stretch to open the season either helped or hurt the team in some cases. He said to open the season with tough rivalry games against strong, physical programs allowed the team to find out exactly what they needed to work on right out of the gate.

“To come out of that 1-2, and then to come home for four home games over the Christmas break really helped us out tremendously because we had to learn on the fly,” Tredwell said. “We came into the season a little bit more prepared than we have in years past.”

The 17th-year coach at Hand added that the team benefited from a large 14-member freshmen class that has produced two

starters, and some much-needed added depth.

“We were very fortunate to have a very strong freshman class,” he said. “There’s just been a lot of good things. There’s been a ton of great energy around the program. The kids really like each other, they work hard, and there is really good chemistry with this group. I think that’s certainly contributed to our good start.”

Entering the season, Hand returned a few upperclassmen from the year before. Captain Eliza Jobson has been a threeyear starter for the Tigers for the season and returns for her senior year. Jobson is committed to playing in college at Stevens Tech in New Jersey next year, and is described as the first one in the gym and the last one to leave.

Two-year starter Molly McGetrick returns for her junior season. McGetrick has been a defensive menace for the Tigers in her tenure. Her speed and length have allowed her to defend the opposing team’s best players.

Also, Hand returns junior starter Ella Bodner. Tredwell gave Bodner high praise for her ability to be coachable and the hard work that she puts in. He said the three-sport athlete just puts her head down and works.

“If you’re looking at a kid and ask what do you want your players to look like or how do you

want your players to act, you look at a kid like Ella Bodner,” Tredwell said.

Hand’s roster is also led by senior captain Lillian Agee, senior guard Kathryn Butler, junior Phoebe Brennan, and junior Maisy Wheeler, who leads the team in assists. Freshman Eden Anderson has emerged as the starting point guard, which has taken Jobson off the main ball-handling position. The change has given Jobson the ability to focus on scoring instead of distributing.

The other freshman starter is Lucia Markovitz. Tredwell calls her a warrior and a player with an edge who plays hard.

“You can tell she has two older brothers because of the way she plays,” Tredwell said. “She’s fun and goofy. She’s got a great smile and has a ton of game. She’s skilled and will smile at you, laugh, and then put her shoulder through your chest. She’s clearly grown up with older brothers. We haven’t had that in the last couple of years, and that is just adding an element that was definitely missing.”

Hand entered the season with high hopes, but also understood based on their schedule and overall experience that at times they could struggle. Now, as they sit at 8-3, they hope to finish the season with a deep run into the state tournament.

Hand qualified for the postseason with its sixth victory against Jonathan Law. The team returns to the court on Friday, Jan. 23, in a rivalry game on the road against Guilford. Hand already defeated Guilford 55-35 earlier in the season, and will hope to keep their winning ways ahead of them.

H-K

Boys’ Basketball

Friday, Jan 23: at Lyme-Old Lyme at 7 p.m.

Boys’ Ice Hockey

Saturday, Jan. 24: at East Catholic at 4 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 23: at Cheshire at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26: at Guilford at 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 23: at Guilford at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 27: vs. Mercy at 7 p.m.

Boys’ Ice Hockey

Saturday, Jan. 24: at Cranston at 12:10 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 28: at Guilford at 5:15 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 24: at Plainville at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28: at Morgan at 6 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming and Diving

Thursday, Jan. 29: at Fairfield Prep at 5 p.m. Wrestling

Monday, Jan. 26: at Aerospace at 6:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 27: vs. Westbrook at 5:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball

Friday. Jan. 23: vs. Lyme-Old Lyme at 7 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 26: at Westbrook at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 28: at Masuk at 3:45 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming and Diving

Tuesday, Jan. 27: at Amity at 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 28: at East Lyme at 3:30 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Tim Tredwell
Hand girls' basketball opens the season with an 8-3 record.

10-Year-Old Hunt Raises Nearly $7,600 for Arthritis Foundation by Sharing Her Journey with It

When it comes to making a difference or exemplifying the definition of perseverance, friendship, teamwork, and community, that spark can come from any age and any cause. In Madison, that message has come from a 10-year-old, Samantha Hunt.

Hunt recently organized a charity team to run in the 2025 Jingle Bell Run 5K on Dec. 21, to support the Arthritis Foundation and, in this case, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Hunt’s team consisted of pledged runners and financial contributors comprised of family, friends, and her peers in Madison Little League softball. Her team generated $7,535 for the donation and was recognized as the largest contributor for the event.

“I was really proud to represent all the little kids and grown-ups that might have arthritis too,” Samantha Hunt said. “Because I put myself out there and shared my story, I was able to raise a lot of money that could help find a cure for kids with arthritis. This event is really important to me, and I can’t wait to be back next year.”

Samantha Hunt’s journey to the 5k run started when she was just 17 months old. Her mother, Stefanie, noticed that her right knee was swollen and she had a little bit of a funny gait to her walk. After several doctor appointments with many different specialist they discovered that she had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, a disorder that means her immune system will attack her joints and cause stiffness, swelling, pain, and warmth to the touch.

So from an early age, she’s faced challenges that most kids never have to think about, but she has never let it slow her down. Hunt’s contagious smile and an unstoppable spirit have been evident in her love for skiing in the winter, dancing to her favorite music, and playing softball and lacrosse with her friends.

Her desire to tell her story came in line with the longing to help others in her position. The idea for the 5k came at a suggestion from her mother after seeing it on the Connecticut branch of the Arthritis Foundation. Her mother presented her with the idea of raising money to help one day cure the invisible disorder. The younger Hunt paused for a second, thought about it, and then said it would be really cool to create her own team for the cause.

“We put together a small group of friends that she felt comfortable sharing her story with, and before you knew it, she was sending out videos to family who live out of state,” Stefanie Hunt said. “She was posting videos to her friends, encouraging her friends to fundraise. She then asked her brother’s friends to fundraise as well.”

In the first year participating in the event in 2024, Samantha Hunt raised over $6,500 and was recognized as the top team fundraiser. That year, she was asked to be the youth honoree for the 25’ Jingle Bell run.

Hunt was able to raise even more this time around by sharing her story little by little. As outgoing and vibrant as the 10-year-old Hunt is, sharing her story with so many took her out of her comfort zone.

As much as she loves to sing and dance, she’s not necessarily one to be on the front stage.

“Initially, she started with a little bit of hesitation. She knew what she wanted to say, and she knew the message that she wanted to get across. She put the ask out there to come support her, and as a result, her efforts paid off,” Stefanie Hunt said. “That’s kind of been my conversation with her is look how brave you are and look what you accomplished just by putting your story out there, and you have no idea how many people you may have helped that have a similar disorder.”

Her mother was impressed

with how mature and poised her daughter was throughout the process.

“I was really impressed with her. I even get choked up just thinking about it because I understand that it takes a lot to put yourself out there at the age of 10, and yet she was willing to,” she added. “She knows that there are a lot of kids in the United States who deal with this invisible disorder, and I know that she desperately would love for this money to go towards finding a cure for it.”

To the average person, if you were to meet Samantha Hunt, they would never know that she dealt with this invisible disorder. Some days are better than others. Sometimes, after a full day skiing on the mountain, her ankles may bother her, or if she’s playing basketball or lacrosse, you might catch a little bit of a limp.

At times, without her medication, her disorder can affect her to the point where the pain won’t allow her to walk, but while she is on her medication, it doesn’t get that bad.

Hunt’s softball coach, Mike Phelan, said even as her coach, he may still not know because she doesn’t complain about it. He said she just smiles through it and continues to compete and have fun.

“I’ve had the privilege to coach and work with Sam for several years now, and she’s always a delight on the field at practice and in games,” Phelan said. “She just has that smile that brings so much energy to the field. Some days she just may not be feeling her best, but comes out there and gives it her all anyway, and to be honest with you, you would never even know if she’s having a good day or not.”

Phelan added his desire to participate on Hunt’s team was to simply show support for one of his outstanding players.

“If by me signing up, kickstarted something to help her in her journey and her fundraising efforts, all the more,” he said. “It’s

so important to me personally to show your players that you support them in all their endeavors, not just on the field, but in their personal lives as well. I know this fundraiser meant so much to Sam, and to put herself out there to tell her story and reach out and try to pledge money in support of it, I just felt I had to contribute and support her in that fashion.”

Jan. 22 to Jan. 28

Photo courtesy of Mike Phelan
Samantha Hunt named top fundraiser at 2025 Jingle Bell Run 5K.

Hand Girls’ Ice Hockey Focused on Camaraderie, Development

Daniel Hand girls’ ice hockey has not been able to get out to the fast start that they would have liked this season. Their preseason optimism quickly faded within their 1-7 season start, but the team is not looking at the year as a waste.

In fact, the team is using each game as a chance to get the younger core valuable varsity experience. Hand dropped its last contest to Mercy on Friday, but Hand coach Greg Thompson said that he has noticed the progression of his players.

He said from the first game to now, midseason, the team overall has progressed each week, and players are getting adjusted to each other. With players from Hand, Branford, H-K, Cromwell, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and Valley Regional, team camaraderie is an important area in order to succeed and develop.

“We have a very young team. We don’t have many seniors. Our second line is pretty much all freshmen,” Thompson said. “It’s their first year playing high school hockey. We’re hoping to build on it.”

Thompson added that the difference in the team’s development from the beginning of the season until now is the team’s confidence. He said playing with confidence is the single most important step for a young group.

“That’s the thing we’ve been really harping on and working on in practices is really putting more pressure on the puck, causing turnovers, and minimizing our turnovers in the neutral zone,” Thompson

With the tough start to the year and the season essentially becoming a rebuilding year, the tough challenges have not come without their positive bright spots as well. Several underclassmen have popped off the ice for Thompson and the Tigers.

Freshman Brooke Guyer has proven her ability to skate, use her hands, and take advantage of her quickness. Freshman Madison Deko has showcased her versatility by being able to play both offense and defense when the team needed

Sophomore Savannah Johnson popped off the screen against Mercy, as she showed her ability to put the puck in the back of the net. Johnson scored both of Hand’s goals against Mercy.

As the season enters the back half of the year, Thompson’s goals for the team are to win and at least finish .500.

“They have been a lot more confident,” he said. “The girls are starting to gel together. It’s taken us half a season to get there, but we’re getting there.”

During Hand’s recent loss to Mercy, the

team opened the first period well, but fell into a lull in the second period. Thompson called the period a meltdown, but to the Tigers’ credit, the team got back in gear in the third period and started to play their game.

Despite their ability to stay resilient, Hand’s lapse in production throughout the middle of the game led to a 7-2 defeat. Going forward, Hand will need to play a full game and also put more pressure on the puck, offensively and defensively.

“My hope is that the kids develop and get better, on and off the court,” Thompson said. “That’s our biggest thing. We’re getting there. They’re gelling. When you have six or seven schools put together, it’s not somebody that they see everyday so the only time that they see each other is at the rink.”

Hand returns to the ice rink on Jan. 31 to face Amity at 7:45 p.m.

Hand Fencing Secures Victories over North Branford Co-op and Simsbury

The Daniel Hand mens and womens fencing teams fenced two conference meets this week—one against the co-op team of North Branford, Vinal Tech, and The Sound School, and another against Simsbury—before traveling to the Morgan Invitational for a charity event.

Hand opened conference play against the NB/Vinal/Sound co-op and got strong results in both epee squads. In men’s epee, Hand earned a 5–4 win. Captain Robbie Ginsburg, a senior, recorded two victories, while senior Alexander Johnson added two wins and senior Henry Diana contributed another to complete the team result.

In womens epee, Hand swept the weapon 9–0. Senior Amber Kittel, junior Emily Mathews, and junior Madison Peete

each went 3–0 as Hand controlled the strip from start to finish. Hand’s women won the meet 27–0, while the men earned a 23–4 overall victory.

Hand then faced Simsbury and had strong performances across all three weapons.

In mens epee, Hand won 7–2. Junior James Boyd led the way with a 3–0 performance. Ginsburg finished 2–1, and Johnson added two wins as Hand pulled away in the middle of the match.

In mens foil, Hand earned a 6–3 victory. Senior Gedeon LaRiviere went 3–0, senior David Bixon finished 2–1, and sophomore Erick Picon added a key win to complete the team result.

In mens sabre, Hand delivered an 8–1 win. Junior Owen Swift went 3–0, while seniors Joshua Lee and Adam Stotz con-

tributed two victories each. Junior Eli Boyer earned a win in his only bout to complete the result.

On the girls side, women’s epee was another standout, as Hand won 8–1. Senior Amber Kittel and junior Emily Mathews each went 3–0, while junior Madison Peete finished 2–1 to round out the scoring.

In womens foil, Hand edged Simsbury 5–4. Senior Ari Lee and senior Kathryn Franson each earned two wins, while sophomore Ingrid Burton contributed another victory to secure the team result.

In womens sabre, Hand swept 9–0.

Senior Kasey Chen, junior Neveah Hastings, and junior Maewyn Griswold each went 3–0 as Hand closed out the meet.

Hand’s men earned a 21–6 overall win over Simsbury, and the women won 22–5.

The mens team remains undefeated on the season at 5-0 while the women’s team is 41.

The teams also traveled to the Morgan Invitational for a charity event where the full roster fences. Freshman Tess Brandoff and sophomore Alison Strabley each picked up their first two varsity victories, while freshman Elizabeth Haggan continued to impress with several more varsity wins. Junior Eli Boyer had one of the top days for Hand, going 7–2 while defeating several rated opponents from the Guilford starting squad.

Both the mens and womens teams will face Cheshire Academy on Friday, and then attend the North Haven Invitational on Saturday to conclude a very busy week.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell
Daniel Hand girls' ice hockey Senior Chloe Monaghan

All Mixed Up

Showcases Mixed-Media Art at Guilford Library

Mixed Up,

A mixed-media exhibit, featuring the art of Eileen Clark, will be held from Sunday, Feb. 1, through Friday, Feb. 27, at the Guilford Free Library Community Room, 67 Park Street. The artist hosts an opening reception for conversation and refreshments from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 6.

All

The exhibit is free and open to the public during library hours.

Library visitors and viewers of Clark’s work are advised to check the program schedule of the library’s community room to ensure that the room is available during their visit.

Clark also exhibits her work throughout the year at outdoor festivals and Guilford Art League exhibitions. Her work is an eclectic mix of vibrant colors and three-dimensional textures. Found objects, thrift store finds, and natural treasures find their way into her abstract and representational art.

Whether it is a garden made of paper flowers or an autumn scene using Tyvek, brush bristles, and tree bark, viewers delight in discovering the identity of the elements.

Clark has been a lifelong creator. Before exploring this new

medium, she was known for her sea glass jewelry under the moniker “Odonata Seaglass.”

nest was growing under the eaves of her Guilford home.

As with her beach-themed jewelry, her work is greatly influenced by things seen and collected in nature.

Goddess of The Forest

Her new piece, , was created from the paper and combs of an abandoned bald-face hornet nest.

Throughout the summer, the

Clark shares, “I could not wait for the cold weather to arrive. After several hard frosts, the residents either move on or die. When it was safe to do so, I cut it down and stored it in my garage freezer for two weeks. I did not want to find any angry critters as I opened the nest.”

With tweezers and an X-acto knife, she carefully dismantled the natural wonder, revealing a tower of combs and many layers of ‘paper.’ This paper is created by the hornets from wood pulp and saliva. The creatures collect material and build the layers creating beautiful patterns and sometimes colors.

In addition to the hornet nest, Eileen incorporated found items such as driftwood twigs, butterfly wings, and feathers.

All her art is an experiment and an adventure. She relishes problem-solving as she digs through her color-sorted treasures to find just the right thing to create a desired texture, color, or effect.

Clark earned a bachelor of fine arts which gave her a foundation of color design and composition. However, her mixed-media tech-

niques are all self-taught.

“Once I decide to try something, I am fiercely driven to figure it out. Occasionally, I do have to surrender and try to appreciate the ‘learning experience’ as I fill a trash bag with creative disaster,” she says. The best remedy for her is beginning an all-new project.

Clark’s full portfolio is available to view online at www.Eileen ClarkArt.com.

For more information, contact the artist at 203-535-9442 or EileenClarkArt@gmail.com.

Press Release from Eileen Clark
Photo courtesy of Eileen Clark
Photo courtesy of Eileen Clark , paper, heat formed and fibers
Autumn In New England , mixed materials
3d Tropical Reef
Photo courtesy of Eileen Clark
A bald-faced hornet nest which the artist found in her home and later used for her art piece, Goddess of the Forest
Photo courtesy of Eileen Clark , hornet nest and mixed media Goddess of the Forest
Photo courtesy of Eileen Clark
Photo courtesy of Eileen Clark paper, fibers 3D Sunflower Garden , paper, fibers, acrylic paint
Wild Cosmos Garden

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

THURSDAY,

JAN. 22

Colorful Paper Weaving

: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For grades 1 to 3. Space and supplies are limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Drive-in Movie Night

: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Decorate a file box with paper plates for wheels and bring it to the library for a “drive-in” movie. Participants can sit in the “car” (or on the floor) in the children’s

room for the film showing. Popcorn served. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Author Event: Jen Hatmaker

Awake: A Memoir

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

An Evening with Edgar Allan Poe

: 7•p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features a dramatic performance celebrating the works of Poe. For info or to register, call 203•453•8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Guilford Job Network Meet

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

FRIDAY, JAN. 23

Friday Movie Matinee

: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Popcorn and soda provided. Registration preferred. For info, including the movie title, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

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 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Calendar for the Week of January 22, 2026 See page 25

Reviews of Theater Shows in Early 2026; Tributes to Those We Lost in 2025

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

Aisle ON THE

Women and the Vote Returns Suffs English

: I highly recommend the Broadway musical, , that is at the Bushnell from Tuesday, Jan. 27, through Sunday, Feb. 1. It tells the story of the fight from 1912 to 1920 to secure women the right to vote. The show received multiple Tony Award nominations and won the Tony for best book and best score, both by Shaina Taub. It focuses on the conflict over strategy among the groups working for women’s suffrage and on the tactics the government used to suppress the movement. Tickets are available at Bushnell.com.

: Sanaz Toossi’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, , opened the TheaterWorks Hartford season as a co-production with Long Wharf Theater. Now, it will play at the Kendall Drama Lab on the Southern Connecticut State University campus through Thursday, Feb. 1. I found the play a fascinating exploration of the relationships among language, culture, and self-image. One cast member has changed since the Hartford production. For tickets, visit LongWharf.org.

The Guardian

: The next show at Yale, , is a solo performance by Julia Masli, which debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where it was named best of the year by newspaper. It has since played in Melbourne, New York, and D.C.

From Edinburgh to Yale Great Show

EBM on Chapel Street, will produce two plays this year. The first, , sounds fascinating. In France, with war at the door, seven exceptional women gather for a dinner party—Gertrude Stein, Dorothy Parker, Agatha Christie, and others. It runs for three weekends beginning March 5. Beginning April 30, they will produce by Conor McPherson. Set in a remote Irish pub, the local bachelors tell stories of ghosts, graveyards, and fairies. For more information, visit NewHavenTheaterCompany.com.

NYC Notes

The Weir Bake-Off

The show changes each performance based on audience participation. It’s at the Yale Rep through Saturday, Feb. 7. For tickets, visit YaleRep.org.

Broadway Baby

: I’d see , singer/actress and cabaret star Karen Mason’s show at MTC in Norwalk on Sunday, Feb. 8, at 2 p.m., if I could. Unfortunately, I have a prior commitment. I saw Mason in a different show as part of The Legacy Theatre’s Sunday afternoon series and loved it. Tickets are available at MusicTheatreofCT.com.

The Cottage

Guttenberg! The Musical

Also Playing Two Plays in 2026 ha ha ha ha ha ha ha

: Currently on stage in Connecticut are , a new drawing room comedy at Hartford Stage, and at Playhouse on Park in West Hartford. : The New Haven Theater Company, which performs at

: Let’s take time to remember some of the theater people we lost in 2025. The year ended with the death of Carmen de Lavallade, a dancer, actor, and choreographer who performed at Yale Rep and was on the faculty. Earlier in December, we lost D. L. Coburn, author of , a play that Long Wharf Theatre presented in the show’s early days. won the 1978 Pulitzer Little Wars

Take Me Out The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Annie

In Memoriam Just Desserts: A Musical

: will open off-Broadway at the end of January. I saw a version of the show about contestants in a small-town baking contest at The Legacy Theatre in Branford. The off-Broadway version stars Kela Blackhurst among other Broadway veterans. Sean Hayes—who won raves for the London production of Good Night, Oscar (he also won the Tony Award)—will star in The Unknown off Broadway beginning Jan. 31. It’s about a writer struggling to cure his writer’s block.

Prize for Drama. Two major playwrights—Tom Stoppard and Athol Fugard—died last year, as did Richard Greenberg ( ), composer/lyricist William Finn ( ), Charles Strouse ( ), and Alan Bergman. Actors who had Broadway (and Connecticut) credits and died include Joan Plowright, Tony Roberts, Richard Chamberlain, Harris Yulin, Elizabeth Franz, Patricia Routledge, Cleo Laine, and George Wendt. Among those performers we lost who did not often appear on Broadway are Gene Hackman, Val Kilmer, Taina Elg, Jerry Adler, Robert Redford, and Diane Keaton. The directing ranks lost Mark Brokaw. For the theater world and Connecticut, the death of George C. White, who established the O’Neill Theater Center in Waterford, was significant. Finally, while he was involved in stage plays only early in his career, everyone mourns the loss of TV actor and film director Rob Reiner.

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

The Gin Game

The Gin Game

Page Turners

MeettheNewmans

The Newman family have been playing themselves on TV for two decades, but, in the changing world of the ’60s, they’re no longer relevant. As their perfect family facade falls away, they’re forced to reckon with the truth of each other. This book is a great historical fiction with some romance, some mystery, and amazing characters.

— Marisa

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

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

EveryDayIRead

Whether you’re looking to rediscover or simply reignite your love of reading, this slim book is full of practical advice and personal anecdotes to get you back into a productive and joyous routine. These essays encourage newer bookworms to put down the stories they don’t connect with, emphasize how parents need to be readers themselves in order to raise young readers, inspire you to read broadly inside and outside of your comfort zone, and always to “read books that preserve your sense of self.”

— Mel

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

TheFirstTimeISawHim

TheStorm

The Last Thing He Told Me

Some books leave you wanting more, and now we finally have it! This story picks up right where left off, delivering just as much emotion and excitement. Get ready for another fast-paced adventure and a powerful narrative about family and the lengths we are willing to go for the ones we love.

Tijae

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Secrets, scandal, and a storm on the horizon—this twisty, small town thriller kept me guessing until the very end. Filled with plenty of drama, suspense, and shocking twists, this is one of those books you can easily devour in a single sitting.

— Tijae

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

SATURDAY, JAN. 24

Winter in Broomstick Ledges

: 8:30 a.m. Broomstick Ledges, Guilford. Meet at the Bluff Head parking lot on Route 77. Features a 3.5-mile hike with a steep section and some rocky portions. Hosted by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust (GLCT). Led by GLCT Director Sam Mandel. Precipitation may cancel. For info or weatherrelated updates, text 347-969-4178.

Native Plant Seed Exchange

: Noon to

3 p.m. Munger Barn, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Hosted by The Wild Ones. Features seed sharing and selection focused on species native to ecoregion 59 and nearby regions, with a curated offering of ecologically functional species from outside the area. Includes displays and demonstrations of winter sowing in pots. Free. For info, visit wildones.org.

Turkish Coffee Tasting

: 2 to 4 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Hosted by Peace Islands CT. Features presentations, demonstrations, activities, and Q&A exploring Turkish coffee culture. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Put the Phone Away, Let the Marbles Pla

y: 10 to 11 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features a story with Mrs. Fig while adult caregivers and parents join a discussion with experts from the Shoreline Therapy Center on the topic, "Unplugging our Kids Without Losing Ourselves." Adults get practical tips, tricks, and strategies to help their family step away from screens, reclaim their time, and break the device habit. Co-sponsored by the Haddam-Killingworth Youth & Family Services, HK Unplugged, Shoreline Therapy Center, and the Killingworth Library. For info or to register (required), call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 25

Laid-Back Levi

Levi, a handsome 4-year-old black-andwhite cat, is gentle, mild-mannered, sweet, and a tad shy. If you approach him quietly, he enjoys pets and listening to whatever you have to tell him. He loves hanging out in front of the window and basking in the warm sunlight on these cold winter days. Levi would be a welcome addition to any cat-loving family. Come meet this special boy at our open house or apply to adopt him online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines

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

Kids' Movie Showing

: 5 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Road, Madison. Features a screening of a movie (rated PG) with snacks and popcorn. Registration is required. For info on the movie or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28

National Lego Day

: 4 to 5 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features Lego free play and theme builds, with stop-motion projects using the Lego Play app. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

TUESDAY, JAN. 27

Who Were the Hammonassetts? The Interrelationship of Indigenous Communities at the Time of English Colonization: :

4 p.m. Hubley Hall, First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln. Presented by Jim Powers. Sponsored by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Part of the 2026 Frederick Lee Lectures series. Admission: $5 suggested fee, free to MHS members. For info, call 203245-4567 or office@madisonhistory.org.

3:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Retro Nintendo consoles and history on display. For info or to register, call 203453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

History of Nintendo Playable Museum Math Mania

: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For elementary-aged children. Features games and activities to reinforce math skills. Focus for the session

is addition. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

History Comes Alive: The History of Nintendo

: 5 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Interactive learning event about Nintendo’s evolution for children. For info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Author Event: Kat Ashmore in Conversation with Diane Morrisey

: 7 p.m. First

Congregational Church, 26 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Book:

Big Bites: Time to Eat!

. Ticket options available. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

THURSDAY, JAN. 29

Story and Craft: : Migrate, Hibernate, and Adapt

Llama Llama Mess, Mess, Mess

10 to 10:45 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a reading of (Anna Dewdney) followed by a craft; for ages 2 and up. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children ages 5 to 10. Features a hands-on STEAM experience that blends science, nature, and art. Presented by the Steward Outdoor Day School. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Author Event: Harper Ross in Conversation with Kristan Higgins

: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book:

The Unwritten Rules of Magic Llama Llama Mess, Mess, Mess

. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

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

Photo by Genevieve Ray
Story by Carol Andrecs

Love is in the Air at Spectrum Gallery with Signs of Love

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisans Store of Centerbrook presents , a seven-week show celebrating images and symbols of love and affection as well as interactions and expressions of fondness of people with each other and with animals.

Discover new fine art, mixed media, Signs of Love photography, sculpture, and other unexpected pieces by emerging and established artists who represent these ideas in both subtle and bold, as well as personal and universal interpretations.

weekend, Saturday, Jan. 24, from 1 to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 25, from 1 to 5 pm.

The exhibit runs through Saturday, March 14.

The gallery is hosting an opening reception, Friday, Jan. 23, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy the fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments at the opening reception and throughout the open house

As always, Spectrum’s Artisans Store offers new pottery, glass, fiber, home décor, jewelry, clothing, and accessories, as well as children’s books and toys.

Spectrum Art Gallery is located at 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. Gallery and

store hours are Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Patrons can shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the United States. For more information about gallery exhibits as well as classes and workshops for adults, teens, and children, call 860767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.

Photo courtesy of Spectrum Art Gallery
Photo courtesy of Spectrum Art Gallery
, oil on linen, by Arena Shawn
Season of Love
, stained glass panel, by Maryann Flick Devotion
Press Release from Spectrum Gallery
, fine art photograph, by Carole Drong
In Dog We Trust , mixed media on canvas, by Ned Farrell Tire Swing
Photo courtesy of Spectrum Art Gallery
Photo courtesy of Spectrum Art Gallery

Librarian Emma Norden

New Haven Museum Launches the Whitney Literary Society

While July 4, 1776, is considered the birthdate of America, it is the events prior to and since that define much of our shared history.

On Thursday, Jan. 29, at 5:30 p.m., the New Haven Museum will debut the Whitney Literary Society, an informal, bimonthly book discussion delving into that colorful history, with a focus on New Haven which was once the center of governance, education, trade, and culture in Connecticut. Entry is free with museum admission, though registration is required. The snow date is Thursday, Feb. 5.

“This book group is ideal for New Haven enthusiasts who are eager to explore the city’s history and want to experience that history firsthand with original documents and manuscripts,” says Librarian Emma Norden, who researched and developed the project.

Each Whitney Literary Society event will include a discussion of a book and either an up-close viewing of materials in the New Haven Museum’s vast collection, a visit from an author, or a guided tour of a related exhibit. Visitors may register to read and discuss any or all of the books.

Homegrown Terror: Benedict Arnold and the Burning of New London

On Thursday, March 26, the series continues with by Connecticut author Eric Lehman. Norden notes that interest in Arnold has increased in recent years, and Arnold’s life, career, and motivations will be popular topic on the state and national level. The discussion corresponding with Lehman’s book will include a showing of the Whitney Library’s impressive Benedict Arnold Manuscript Collection.

Labyrinth

Winchester

Captive of the

The Case of the Piglet’s Paternity: Trials from the New Haven Colony, 1619-1963

The yearlong series will progress through the Puritan, Colonial, and industrial eras into more contemporary New Haven history. The first discussion will include several chapters from by Jon C. Blue, which explores judicial trials in the early New Haven Colony.

“These stories of real people are riveting especially chapters 24 and 30, which involve indentured servitude, and divorce, which was highly unusual in the 1600s,” Norden says. The event will include a rare viewing of the original town records of New Haven.

Pizza in New Haven Griswold V. Connecticut: Contraception and the Right of Privacy Murder in Model City: The Black Panthers, Yale, and the Redemption of a Killer

Also in the series will be by Mary Jo Ignoffo, the first fulllength biography of Sarah Winchester of New Haven, who was the subject of the movie , starring Helen Mirren. Other books in the series are by Colin Caplan, by Susan Wawrose, and by Paul Bass and Douglas W. Rae.

The Whitney Literary Society is offered in partnership with the New Haven Free Public Library, allowing easy access to the books in the series. Registrants can opt to have the Whitney Library reserve a copy of each book at the main branch of the New Haven Free Public Library. To register, visit newhavenmuseum.org. For more information, email library@newhaven museum.org.

About NH250

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.

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum
Press Release from the New Haven Museum

Women’s Club Announces Cash-Only Food Drive for the Madison Food Pantry

The Women’s Club of Madison announces the launch of a “cash-only food drive” through the month of February to collect donations for the Pauline Baldwin Food Pantry in Madison. Proceeds benefit the food pantry with the purchase of meats and other essential items for the pantry’s freezer, which needs replenishment after the holidays.

The Madison Food Pantry provides essential groceries to Madison residents, offering fresh produce, nonperishable items, and personal care products.

Funded entirely through donations, the pantry is an all-volunteer organization, ensuring that every donation goes directly toward helping neighbors. Currently, the pantry serves approximately 110 families per month.

According to pantry director Mary Hake, the contributions raised by this fundraising drive will allow the pantry to

and improve its ability to provide nourishing food to clients.

Donors can mail a check to The Women’s Club of Madison, P.O. Box 691, Madison, CT 06443.

To donate online to the cash-only food drive, visit womensclubmadisonct.com/ cash-only-food-drive.

The Women’s Club of Madison is a dedicated group of women doing community service improvement projects. It is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, an international nonprofit organization whose objective is the improvement of educational, cultural, and civic conditions.

In 2025, the Women’s Club of Madison celebrated 125 years of service to the community.

For more information, visit womens clubmadisonct.com.

About the Women’s Club of Madison
Photo courtesy of the Women's Club of Madison
From left to right: Mary Hake, director of the Pauline Baldwin Food Pantry in Madison, and Donna Dougherty and Phyllis Denton, members of the Women’s Club of Madison and pantry volunteers.

BRANFORD

240 Austin Ryer Ln Unit 240:

Harrison Robbins and Kenneth Pesce of Branford to Mickell Hindman, $310,000 on 01/02/2026

Sxs

Solutions LLC of Branford to Stonewall Estates LLC, $225,000 on 01/02/2026

Lee

Letourneau and Sandra A. Ohare of Branford to Kathy Lawruszko, $312,500 on 12/31/2025

Lauren R.

Cortez of Branford to Eric and Annette Colacino, $720,000 on 01/02/2026

CLINTON

Melissa A.

Suprin of Clinton to Christa and Nicholas Lewis, $800,000 on 12/29/2025

Zachary A. and Jennifer A. Kirby of Clinton to Richard Atkinson, $265,000 on 12/29/2025

David R. and Dorinda S. Hardy of Clinton to Pestritto Ft and Chelsea L. Pestritto, $1,150,000 on 12/31/2025

Dr Unit 36-17:

Robert J. Lyons of Clinton to Garth L. and Kimberly A. Colegrove, $13,475 on 12/31/2025

DEEP RIVER

Adam D. Schwartzman of Deep River to Janice Weinstein, $366,000 on 01/02/2026

200 Westbrook Rd:

Lsf9 Master

Participation and Us Bank TNa of Deep River to Pauline Mcdougall, $414,900 on 12/29/2025

EAST HAVEN

356 Main LLC of East Haven to Fuel Maxx Realty LLC, $1,650,000 on 12/29/2025

Sharon A.

Dellacamera and Breezewood Condo Assn Inc of East Haven to Robert Dixon, $96,500 on 01/02/2026

Henry 168 LLC of East Haven to Edison R. Wamputsrik, $423,000 on 01/02/2026

Choice Financial

Group of East Haven to 645 Foxon Properties LLC, $2,105,000 on 12/29/2025

Jeffrey L. Stoddard of East Haven to Pane T and Louis Pane, $228,000 on 12/31/2025

Annette and Eric Colacino of East Haven to Antonio P. Allevato, $410,000 on 12/30/2025

Gloria J. Griffin of East Haven to Frank Suraci, $168,000 on 12/30/2025

Ral North Haven LLC of East Haven to James and Beth E. Wallace, $615,000 on 01/02/2026

Loretta Thorpe RET and Frederick E. Thorpe of Essex to Patrick J. and Assunta A. Moynihan, $455,000 on 12/29/2025

GUILFORD

Roxanne L. Tulenfeld of

550 E Main St Unit 22:
192 Monticello Dr Unit 192:
18 Ridge Acres Rd:
10 Davis Farm Rd:
3 Jamaica Rd:
6 Osprey Cmns:
Riverside
Mitchell Ln:

Real Estate Transactions

KILLINGWORTH

48 Bar Gate Trl:

Steven J. and Cynthia A. Fetteroll of Killingworth to Nicholas R. Sharkey and Allison Parente, $699,000 on 12/29/2025

John M. and Connie W. Walker of Madison to Katherine A. and Zachary T. Long, $618,660 on 12/31/2025

James W Durkin

T and James W. Durkin of Madison to Aidan and Samantha V. Dalton, $520,000 on 12/30/2025

Robert C Gerard T and Robert C. Gerard of Madison to Ian R. Lemieux, $730,000 on 12/30/2025

Mary L. Dobson of Madison to Mallory Widlansky, $725,000 on 12/31/2025

NORTH BRANFORD

Christopher E. and Autumn E. Burns of North Branford to Michael and Jillian J. Bontempo, $510,000 on 12/30/2025

Kevin A. Stevens of North Branford to Dominika A. Baczek, $415,000 on 01/02/2026

John W. and Mark S. Buciak of North Haven to Leona Atkins, $225,000 on 12/29/2025

Kolesnik

Catherine E Est and Mark S. Buciak of North Haven to Leon Atkin, $225,000 on 12/29/2025

Joanne Fowler of North Haven to Madeline Kerins and Evan J. Chrustic, $462,500 on 12/19/2025

White Flt and Thomas F. White of North Haven to Younjun Kim, $330,000 on 12/26/2025

Leah M. Imperial of North Haven to Jayden M. Tinney and Mary R. Harding, $480,000 on 12/22/2025

Rocco T. and Sandra L. Ditullio of North Haven to Vincent H. Ditullio, $370,000 on 12/23/2025

Andrew and Carmella Proto of North Haven to Claudia Capozzo and Vincentgianni Paolillo, $640,000 on 12/22/2025

Beverly Wilusz and Lenore I. Johnson of Old Saybrook to Aaron Torrison, $850,000 on 12/29/2025

Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. For past transactions, visit zip06.com/realestate.

Starting Strong in

working fireplaces, and impressive first‑floor ceilings soaring over nine feet. A true historic gem, it sits at the heart of Madison’s charming village.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.