The Source 12-25-25 by dayshorepublishing

December 25, 2025

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Madison & Killingworth Vol. XXX Iss. 52

A New England Newspaper of the Year 2018

VIBE Show Choir the Center of DHHS Cabaret By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer

Daniel Hand High School’s VIBE, one of the top show choir ensembles in the country, is the central act of the annual Cabaret show that will take place at the high school on the evening of Saturday, Jan. 10, and the afternoon of Sunday, Jan. 11.

The Cabaret will see the premier of VIBE’s show based on the Agatha Christie narrative “Murder on the Orient Express,” which they will take to show choir competitions during the 2026 performance season. Also featured will be performances by senior members of VIBE, the eighth grade chorus of Walter C. Polson Middle School, and other special guests.

The event is the biggest fundraiser for the show choir ensemble, “helping support the staging of the show and provid(ing) students and directors with resources for music, costumes, and other performance needs,” according to a press release on the event. Overseeing the fundraising is Rebecca

Jesse Bernier spreads Christmas cheer at work as Scranton Memorial Library’s adult reference and programming librarian...................2

See VIBE Show Choir page 8

Christmas Tree Find Sue Hennessey, left, and her husband John Hennessey, right, purchase a Christmas tree on Dec. 18 at the Madison Exchange Club's tree sale on the Madison town green with the help of Exchange Club volunteer Bennett Paul. Proceeds from the tree sales benefit the club's many community programs, including child abuse prevention, the annual Fourth of July parade and scholarships for graduating high school students.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ The Source

Rocky’s Legacy Ahoy! Check out Captain Morgan’s weekly fishing column................12

Traditions of Stockings Liz Egan and her family have a tradition of each person possessing an heirloom Christmas stocking........20

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DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • COMMUNITY NEWS

Jesse Bernier Found Her Dream Job at Scranton By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer

Throughout the month of December, E.C. Scranton Memorial Library’s Jesse Bernier could be found wearing a different Christmasthemed outfit in celebration of the holiday. It’s a personal practice of hers that began during the 2021 holiday season to revive the Christmas joy that was previously missed due to the pandemic. It certainly uplifts other people’s spirits, as well as Jesse’s, during the most festive time of the year. “It’s kind of hard to be sad when you look ridiculous!,” she smiles. Bringing people’s spirits up has been a central aspect of Jesse’s time as the adult reference and programming librarian at Scranton and the instructor of its Creative Crafts class. “I am passionate about helping others and bringing programs to the library that will enrich the lives of our patrons,” she said. “We’re that third meeting space for people… the place where people go when they want to

Person

of the Week learn something new or meet with other like-minded people about a particular topic.” Jesse began her career at Scranton two years ago after leaving her previous career in sales. She “took the time to figure out what I really wanted to do with my life,” and decided to go back to school, ultimately receiving her master’s degree in library science. Since joining the Scranton staff, she has found a community at the library that cherishes the congregation of people from Madison and multiple other towns for a variety of programs she has introduced. Those programs include movie nights, lectures, puzzle competitions, and the Open Mic Nights, an event held on the first Thursday each month that is led by Madison’s Poet

Laureate Ed Lent. Open mics give a chance for poets, singers, comedians and more to perform. She is also putting together a French conversation club that starts in January. Just last year, Jesse won a grant for Scranton to participate in the Library Speakers Consortium. It gave library patrons the opportunity to attend virtual talks with some of the New York Times’ best selling authors. “We are a fairly small library with a smaller budget, but to be able to have these talks with Jodi Picoult and all these big names was very exciting,” Jesse says. Connecting with other communities and their residents in need is another kind of opportunity offered to library patrons thanks to Jesse. This month, patrons were greeted on the first floor by The Gift of Warmth display she introduced. It is a “new collection that I started this year which will help ‘Merry Meals,’” a group of regional See Jesse Bernier page 4

Photo by Aaron Rubin

Jesse Bernier is in full Christmas spirit at Scranton where she leads popular crafting classes.

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COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

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Inside Sports

National Stars Several cross country athletes from The Country School shined at the National Junior Olympic Championships...................................... 14 Falling with Fight Despite a loss in its opening match this winter, the Hand wrestling team showed fight and determination on the mats.................................................... 14 Next-Level Star Tim O’Malley was a major difference maker for the Hand football team, and he’s continuing his playing career at Lehigh next year................. 13

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Index

Letters................................................... 4 Obituaries............................................ 5 Sports..................................................12 Tides....................................................14 Classifieds..........................................15 Sudoku...............................................19

The Source

(usps 019-857) Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Madison, CT 06443 Postmaster: Send address changes to The Source, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320

Living..................................................20 Calendar.............................................21 Horoscopes.......................................28 Crossword Puzzle...........................28 Real Estate.........................................30

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • COMMUNITY NEWS

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Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

Synagogue Story Fails to Mention Specifics About the Architecture, Designer and the Process of Re-Imagining a $6 Million Space The lead, above the fold, feature article of the Dec. 11 issue of The Source has deep, fundamental journalistic failures. I have written professionally about buildings for over 35 years in over 20 national and local venues and in eight books, and I am an architect who has had over 100 pieces written about our projects. Editorial incompetence is not worth a letter - the sporadic descriptions of undescribed improvements beyond “imposing”, “large windows”, where “collected ideas” “mapped out” simply misrepresent the work of over 10 designers and scores of craftsman - after a five-year design and approval process. When I talked to the writer Aaron Rubin, who went to the synagogue growing up, it is hard to imagine that over those years of design, membership meetings, newsletters and construction he “had no idea who” I was. But beyond the architecture, a synagogue member designed and physically made the

exquisite Ark with a terrific glass artist: I guess this was just one of the “collected ideas” “mapped out.” Roz Cama, the interior designer rendered amazing surfaces. The lighting was sensitive and effective. More “collected ideas” namelessly “mapped out.” But more, a host of State Building, Energy, Life Safety Codes had to be met and permitted. The town was extremely helpful in an attenuated Certificate of Occupancy compliance, only recently finalized. An editorial has a Point of View and excludes objectivity: this was not an editorial. A republished Press Release is just that: I am guessing this was not that. This is not an article describing a $6 million complete reinvention of a central civic feature but a local group improving their facility. Is that journalism? Duo Dickinson, Architect Madison

Jesse Bernier Found Her Dream Job at Scranton Continued from page 2 volunteers who deliver hot meals and homemade cards to homebound people on Christmas Day in multiple shoreline communities. Jesse may be best known to library patrons for her Creative Crafts classes. These sessions were introduced by her at Scranton and have proven to be a very popular attraction to the library with participants from multiple shoreline communities. These classes have both provided the much-craved in-person activities sought after the pandemic and the ability for adults to rediscover playtime with a mental boost. “I’ve built this patron base not only [for] people that are coming together to learn and be inspired, but also to play and have fun. I had a patron tell me that my classes have so helped her mental health that even her family members have said to her, ‘Wow, we’ve really noticed that her mood’s a lot better.’ I think that for a while that was something that people were really missing, was those one-on-one [programs], and connecting with others.”

The crafts made during the session run the gamut, from making cards to paper quilling. In the former, participants will make three cards per class, and there is a “formula to the madness,” says Jesse, that can meet participants wherever they are in their crafting abilities. “There’s one simple but elegant card, one card that uses an embossing folder, because that’s just so much fun,” she says. “And then one 3D card. ... Everything is pre-cut, ready to be assembled, so they can just come and make the cards. They don’t have to think about, ‘I don’t know where I’m going to put this piece.’ Not that there aren’t opportunities to be creative because I want them to have that. I say, It’s okay to go rogue, if you want to.’” Jesse’s craft-based activities don’t end at classes. This year she introduced the library’s first craft supply swap and holiday decor swap, which she says “was a great chance for people to declutter their homes, to keep things out of the landfill, and also for people to obtain new supplies for no cost.” See Jesse Bernier page 11

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

Obituaries

Contacting The Source

Obituary

Lorraine Tvrdik Madison Lorraine Monnier Tvrdik left this world on Aug. 29, 2025, at Yale New Haven Hospital, surrounded by her family. In her own words, she has “gone on to (her) next adventure,” perhaps to the stars, perhaps to another life, or perhaps to simple peace. Born in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Oct. 13, 1950, Lorraine lived a life rich with courage, adventure, and connection. At 17, she left home for London to work as an au pair and learn English, followed by a year in Germany mastering German and thriving in the industrial heart of Frankfurt. Even early on, she approached life with humor and grace, seeing every challenge as a lesson and every stranger as a possible friend. Her journey eventually led her to the United States, first to Bethesda, MD, where she supported the daily living needs of a diplomat’s wife who was paraplegic, and then to Washington, DC, where she served as the receptionist at the Embassy of Switzerland. There she met the love of her life, Wayne Tvrdik. The two married on March 2, 1975, beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter and shared adventure that would span five decades and many moves from New York to Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Norway, Switzerland, and finally Connecticut. Lorraine became an American citizen on July 1, 1994. Lorraine and Wayne welcomed three children, Marc, who passed away as an infant, Lucas and Celia. She was also the proud grandmother of her granddaughter, Noelle Meyer, whose light brought her endless joy. Lorraine is also survived by her son-in-law, Wesley Meyer; sister Carole Rosset; and brother-in-law Roland Rosset; her brother Raynald Monnier; and sister-inlaw Rita Monnier; and her brother Yves Monnier. She remained close to her nieces and nephews: Gil, Stéphanie, Natasha, Alex, Basil and Michael, following their lives and accomplishments with great interest and affection.

Her professional life was as diverse as her travels, from international business roles in Europe at Norsik Hydro Trading to a deeply rewarding career in human resources supporting teachers and coaches at Brookfield School District in Connecticut. She retired in 2014 after 18 years of service, known for her sharp mind, unshakable integrity, and the warmth she brought to every encounter. In 2021, Lorraine and Wayne traded their Roxbury home of 32 years for a bright, beautiful condo by the beach in Madison, where she continued to live fully, hosting friends, tending to neighbors, and savoring sunsets by the shore. Lorraine was never one to sit still. She poured her energy into her community, volunteering with hospice and literacy programs at the Guilford Community Center, baking tirelessly for the Madison Police Department (who affectionately considered her their “Official Baker”), and finding ways big and small to lift others up. She believed in giving back, connecting deeply and learning endlessly. Lorraine’s family wishes to express their profound appreciation to the Yale New Haven Health System for the exceptional care that granted her cherished additional time with those she loved. They are especially thankful to her longtime pulmonologist, Dr. Singh, whose dedication and compassion sustained her through the years, and to the ICU teams at Yale New Haven Hospital, whose expertise and kindness supported her, and her family, through every stay. True to her spirit of generosity and curiosity, Lorraine donated her body to the Yale School of Medicine, offering one final gift of learning. Her family will honor her life privately, on the beach she loved so dearly. Lorraine leaves behind a legacy of kindness, courage, and a belief that falling down is just part of living, what matters most is getting up again. She would want us all to dream boldly, love fiercely, and never let anyone tell us that we “cannot do it.” Her Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held in the spring of 2026. See Obituaries page 6

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 The Source encourages 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

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DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • COMMUNITY NEWS

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Obituaries Continued from page 5 Obituary

Our Lady of Mercy School and was a longtime parishioner of St. Margaret Church in Madison. She also enjoyed playing tennis and the friendships she made along the way. Evelyn Pegnataro, 92, passed away Evelyn is survived by her children: peacefully on Nov. 14, 2025, surrounded Joseph (Debra) Pegnataro Jr. of Old by her family in The Villages, FL, Lyme; Joanne (William) Schmidt of The where she had been Villages, FL; Cynthia Swick of Grisliving with her wold; Jana (Dale) Nicoll of Westbrook; daughter and son-inRobert (Kelly) Pegnataro of Callaway, law. FL; and Christopher (Heather) PegEvelyn spent the nataro of Branford. She is also survived majority of her life in by her grandchildren: Daniel (Tanya) Madison, where she Pegnataro, David Pegnataro, Jenna (Al) and her late husband, Rahkonen, Jackie Schmidt, John (Beth) Joseph Paul PegSwick, Katie (Kelsey) Swick, Scott nataro Sr., raised Nicoll, Lisa Nicoll, Tyler Pegnataro, their family and Kylie Pegnataro, Ashley Pegnataro and shared 65 years of Julianna Pegnataro; as well as her six marriage. She was known for her warmth, kind- great-grandchildren, all of whom ness, and unwavering dedication to her brought her tremendous joy. Evelyn will be remembered for her family. Evelyn cherished the time she grace, loyalty, and the deep love she carspent with her children and grandchilried for her family. dren and especially enjoyed hosting Services to Celebrate her Life will be family gatherings and celebrations in held in June 2026. Exact date and time her home. to be announced. A woman of sincere Catholic faith, she spent many years volunteering at

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See Obituaries page 7

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COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025 Obituaries Continued from page 6 Obituary

Jack was preceded in death by his wife Janette (Hashim) of 50 years; his parents; sisters, Jean Mathias and Ruth Perrault; brother Arthur Chapman; and grandson Jeffery “Bo” Chapman Jr. John "Jack" Clifford Chapman, 98, a He is survived by his two daughters, longtime resident of Madison, passed Janice (Ron) Pirozzoli of Branford and away peacefully Nov. 25, 2025, at ConJill (John) Sam of Shelton; three sons, necticut Hospice – Jeffery (Marsha) Chapman of Austin, Branford surrounded Texas, John (Ann) Chapman of Bradenby his family. He was ton, Fla. and Colonel Jay Chapman born in Oakland, (Kris Kramarich) (US Army, ret.) of Calif. in 1927, the son Arlington, Va.; seven grandchildren, of Roy and Halcyon Betsy (Dan) Madru, Amanda (Craig) (McConnell) ChapKurker, Vicki (Bobby) Imperato, man. He attended Melissa Reis, Jessica Sam, Jace ChapFremont H.S., San man and Emma Chapman; three greatJose State, and grandchildren, Hadley Madru, Brady achieved a Business Degree from Heald College in San Fran- Madru and Samantha Imperato; and his longtime companion Pat Melady. cisco. There are no words that can express Jack was a proud World War II vethow grateful and blessed we are to all of eran (Army Air Corps), a successful you who considered him your friend. career man (42 years at General ElecThe “Team Dad” acts of kindness hightric), a devoted and caring family man (five children, eight grandchildren, and light the warmth and community spirit of small town America. Also a heartfelt three great-grandchildren), and a comthank you to his Visiting Angel care mitted community member (Service providers, Enoch and Oumou for allowCorps of Retired Executives (SCORE), Madison American Legion Post 79, and ing Jack to live out his life independently in his own home. Madison Exchange Club). In lieu of flowers or gifts, contribuHe loved UConn Women’s Baskettions in Jack’s memory may be made to ball, the New York Yankees and his American Legion Post 79, PO Box 504, Saturday morning friends and hearty breakfasts at Nick’s Place (followed by a Madison, CT 06443. The family is currently making plans for Jack’s CelebraSubway sandwich!). His sense of tion of Life Reception. humor, gift of conversation, and legendary smile will be sorely missed.

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LEGAL NOTICE MADISON INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES AGENCY The Madison Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agent approved per Section 13 of the Regulations the following application on June 4, 2025: 25-26. 836 Green Hill Road, Map: 98, Lot: 2, Zone: RU-2; Owner: Madison Land Conservation Trust, Applicant: Robert A. Owens; Non-Regulated Use Notification to remove invasive species from Birch Branch Meadow pursuant to Section 4.2c.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF John T. Swanson, AKA J T Swanson, AKA John Swanson (25-0275) The Hon. Peter C. Barrett, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Madison - Guilford Probate Court, by decree dated September 3, 2025, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim. Priscilla H. Geer, Clerk The fiduciary is: KATY J ARMENIA, LAW OFFICE OF, KATY J. ARMENIA, LLC, 23-A2 WOODLAND ROAD, MADISON, CT 06443

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Gary Alan Childress, AKA Gary A. Childress (25-0356) The Hon. Peter C. Barrett, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Madison - Guilford Probate Court, by decree dated December 5, 2025, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim. Priscilla H. Geer, Clerk The fiduciaries are: Elizabeth Childress and Susannah Scally c/o REBECCA IANNANTUONI, DAY PITNEY, 195 CHURCH STREET, 15TH FLOOR, NEW HAVEN, CT 06510

LEGAL NOTICE MADISON PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION Madison, CT Notice is hereby given that the Commission will hold a public hearing(s) on Thursday, January 8, 2026 beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Meeting Room ‘C’, The Hammonasset Room, Town Campus, 8 Campus Drive, Madison CT 06443. This is a hybrid meeting and attendees may also join via Zoom webinar through either the webinar link or call-in information below. www.zoom.us Webinar ID: 915 8196 6735 Password: 452138 Or Call-in: 1 646 558 8656 The following application(s) will be heard: #25-30+CSP. 142 Boston Post Road; Map: 45; Lot: 138; Zone: R-2; Owner/Applicant: 142 Boston Post Road, LLC; Coastal Site Plan and Site Plan application to retain existing mixed-use building with office on first floor and one-bedroom unit on second floor and construct new 4,350sq.ft. two-story building with 8 residential, one-bedroom units; with associated site improvements including parking/walkways, subsurface sewage disposal systems, stormwater management system, 10ft x 14ft storage shed, and 10ft x 14ft covered picnic area pursuant to CGS 8-30g. Copies of these applications are available for inspection in the Land Use Office. Further details on how to participate in the webinar are posted on the Town of Madison website, www.madisonct.org. All written correspondence can be submitted to the Land Use Department via email to landuse@madisonct.org. Dial 203-245-5631 for assistance. Dated at Madison, Connecticut this 12th day of December 2025. Carol Snow, Chair

Photo Courtesy of Ron Soja Daniel Hand's VIBE is prepping for their live debut at the Cabaret event on Jan. 10 and Jan. 11

VIBE Show Choir the Center of DHHS Cabaret Continued from page 1 Moles, the president of the VIBE Show Choir Supporters group. “We’re constantly looking for any and all help,” she said. VIBE began its 26th season this year and has been rehearsing its competition show since August. This year’s ensemble succeeded a momentous season in 2025 that saw them compete against several other top-ranked groups from across the United States in the Show Choir Nationals at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn. The group made history as the first New England show choir to compete and place for finals in the competition, on top of a best band and best female soloist award. This year, musical director Ron Soja is looking to continue the group’s years of success with “Murder on the Orient Express,” one of the numerous themes on a list of show ideas he has kept for years. “Every year, I look through it,” said Soja. “I think about the band, and then I think about what we did the year before, how did that go, what worked, what didn’t work.” This year’s theme is “a little fancier” and darker compared to last year’s pirate theme, while returning to a novel-based narrative. To help achieve the show’s look, the interior of a train was designed by Timothy Lunn, featuring LED screens to simulate a moving train. he 1930s-style costumes are being designed by Lyn Lunn. The story line “encapsulates the whole story,” said Soja, following detective Hercule Poirot trying to solve a murder mystery on a luxury train halted by heavy snowfall en route.

This year’s show also features the contributions of new show staff, such as arranger Josh Greene, who has worked with other nationally recognized show choirs. He has directed the show design, narrative, and song choices to ensure all elements of the performance are aligned for a cohesive presentation. While the dancers have received direction from a choreographer who has also worked nationally ranked choirs, they are also being supported by dance captain and Hand senior Jane Barrett. She is currently in her third year in VIBE and has enjoyed the nexus of theater, singing, and dancing that the ensemble offers. “The fact that we tell a bigger story, unlike a lot of other groups, definitely brings in a whole other piece that puts it all together,” said Barrett. “I love the group so much, I wanted to do something to help out. ... And I thought that my dance training was the best way to help.” The show opens with a jaunty version of the heavy metal classic “Crazy Train,” by Ozzy Osbourne, which is mixed in with a rendition of “Cell Block Tango” from the musical “Chicago.” Other songs include “Murder Murder” from the musical Jekyll and Hyde; “Bury a Friend” by Billie Eilish; “Colder By the Minute” from the musical version of “Frozen”; and “Writing’s on the Wall” by Sam Smith. The latter is the ballad portion of the show meant to show off VIBE’s collective vocal prowess. Leading the band is its captain and pianist Avery Belcher, who said the musicians are making “a lot of progress with See VIBE Show Choir page 9

COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

Home for the Holidays: A Gift for Gizmo Story by Carol Andrecs

Gizmo is a small cat with a big personality. At only 4 years old, he is playful and loving, and craves attention from his humans. His long white fur with brown and black tiger markings makes him extra stunning and unique. Gizmo is not a fan of all the other cats in his room and is ready to make holiday memories in a permanent home of his own. Are you the person to give Gizmo this gift? Come meet this sweet and affectionate boy at our open house or apply to adopt him online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org. b

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.

Photo by Genevieve Ray

VIBE Show Choir the Center of DHHS Cabaret Continued from page 8 our rehearsals with the choir, and I think we’re in a better spot now than we were this time last year.” Advising the band is Mike Fiorentino, a Madison-based musician who has played onstage with several big name acts including Imagine Dragons. Belcher is still active in helping out other band members with their parts and seeing every sound come together to complement the music. VIBE’s performance at the Cabaret will be their first live rendition of what Soja has described as a “really cohesive show” to be their first competition at Tantasqua Regional High School in Massachusetts.

VIBE will perform three times at the Cabaret, which will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10, and at noon and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 11. For members like Barrett, VIBE has been a great experience under the guidance of Soja - a “great teacher and mentor,” she said. “It’s just such a great way to sum up my high school experience,” said Barrett. Alongside the performances at the Cabaret will be a raffle, with refreshments available for purchase, complimentary hot cocoa and an “Orient express photo booth” for all audience members. Tickets can be purchased at dhhsvibe.com./cabaret2026.

Snail Mail Holiday Display The Madison Historical Society (MHS) announces it is hosting a vintage card exhibit called A Snail-Mail Holiday: Selections from the MHS Collection of Greeting Cards at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Road, Madison. Ranging from the Gilded Age to the Great Depression, the cards can be viewed in the foyer display case through Wednesday, Dec. 31. For more information, contact the MHS at 203245-4567 or office@madisonhistory.org.

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DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • COMMUNITY NEWS

Partnership Finalized to Run Meals on Wheels Program

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Representatives of the Madison Foundation and the Town of Madison pose for a photo making official their partnership on the Meals On Wheels program in town. “We are pleased to partner with the Madison Foundation as well continue to offer Meals On Wheels for seniors in Madison,” said Austin Hall, Director of Beach, Recreation, and Senior Services. The partnership have already raised $20,000, said Hall, and they hope to match that amount. They are dedicated to “carrying on the vision of the late Milton Marcus” through the program’s continuation and the physical and mental health benefits it provides for elder Madison residents. From left, at the Madison Beach Hotel, The Madison Foundation Board of Directors members Geoffrey Palmer, David Allen and Lori photo submitted Heflin; Town of Madison First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons, and Austin Hall, Town of Madison Director of Community Ser- From left, at the Madison Beach Hotel, The Madison Foundation Board of Directors members Geoffrey Palmer, David Allen and Lori Heflin; Town of Madison First Selectwoman vices. Peggy Lyons, and Austin Hall, Town of Madison Director of Community Services.

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COMMUNITY NEWS • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

Jesse Bernier Continued from page 4 She plans on expanding craft offerings by holding the library’s first open sew program, opening up space for regional quilters and sewers to work at several stations, collaborate on projects, and learn even more about fiber arts from a skilled artisan in the field like Jesse. From the popular crafts sessions, her work as a reference librarian, and establishing programming, Jesse has landed her “dream job.” “I love throwing events. That’s something that I’ve always been good at even in my previous career. The fact that I get to throw events, continue my education, I’m constantly learning and helping others to learn and inspiring others - I pinch myself on a regular basis. I can’t believe that this is my life. I love everything about this library and this community. Madison is just a beautiful town that’s rich with arts and history, and I’m so thrilled to be a part of it.” To learn more about Creative Crafts and other events at Scranton, visit https://scranton.librarycalendar.com/

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

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THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025 • SPORTS

Sports

The Source Valley Courier Thursday, December 25, 2025

Rocky - The Matriarch of the Striper Coast

They still whisper her name up and down the Atlantic seaboard — Rocky, the old queen of the Striper Coast. She’s as much legend as fish now, a survivor etched into the tides from the brackish nurseries of the Chesapeake Bay to the rocky headlands of Maine. For decades, she’s made the same pilgrimage north and south, driven by instinct older than memory. Each spring she’s migrated from her birth waters north, pushing through the murky tributaries heavy with silt and runoff, dodging ghostly nets that hang like curtains of death. She’s felt the drag of trawler wakes and the sting of rusted hooks, and still she’s swum on — a silver streak beneath the changing seas. Once, she was quick and agile, all muscle and flash, her broad caudal tail slicing through rip currents like a scythe. She hunted bunker under the moonlight and danced through bait balls with effortless grace. But the years have slowed her. Her once-sleek flanks are scarred — faint reminders of battles fought and survived. She remembers the strange two-legged predator who caught her once, maybe twice — the old salt with the weathered hands and the knowing eyes. He had lifted her from the water, studied her like an old friend, then smiled. A kiss to her head, a wink to the wind, and back she went. That memory lingers, as warm as the current itself. Now, the waters are warmer than they used to be. The currents twist differently. The eelgrass beds that once sheltered her young have thinned. And yet, something deeper than age — deeper than time — urges her onward. For within her still pulses the strong DNA that built a species, the promise of new life in every tide. She knows she won’t see another dozen migrations, perhaps not even another spring. But that doesn’t matter. The Chesapeake calls again — the scent of the estuary, the soft push of freshwater against salt, the pull of generations unbroken. And so Rocky, scarred matron of the striper line, turns her nose to the south once more. Against the tide, against time itself, she forges ahead — not for herself, but for every shimmering life that will follow in her wake. Quietly, she slipped beneath the waves — vanishing once more into legend. b

Fishing report CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

On The Water After the blast of Arctic cold and the unusual amount of snow that fell south of the I-95 corridor (especially along the shoreline) compared to the rest of Connecticut, high pressure built from the southwest. High winds followed ahead of a weak upper level disturbance that quickly pushed across the area. Putting a damper on potentially a white Christmas, a warm front pushed north followed by another cold front, and as forecast, a warm front moved in again, greatly reducing any leftover snowpack. Weather fronts seesawed between cold and warm fronts, as pre-dawn temperatures bottomed out at a low of 14 degrees while daytime temperatures rose to a high of 53 degrees. During this period, most days saw a mix of sun and clouds, including four with rain. Small craft advisories poked Long Island Sound with south/southwest winds gusting to 30 knots, bringing in warmer air as seas managed to reach three to six feet - eight at one point. Water temperatures dipped as low as 37 degrees, but for clammers, the days around Christmas can provide good low morning tides. Whether lakes and ponds develop and maintain enough hard water locally, fishing will continue through January when some of those cold weather garments will be layered up and worn. No doubt, with the cold base having been developed, flags will flip and jigging sticks will get somewhat of a workout up in the northwest and northeast corners of the state. Along the shoreline, expect that activity to be less but better than last year. Trout will be caught in both soft water rivers and hard water lakes/ponds, bass will be able to be coaxed into being hooked, a few toothy critters will be caught, along with some catfish and plenty of panfish, including perch and crappie. Going out on a limb, here’s a gut call: figure on Madison/Guilford area to have below average temperatures and a cold month overall with the coldest periods early and late in the month. Precipitation will be less and snowfall below normal (a few nor’easters) for the season, but Jan-

Photo courtesy of Captain Morgan

Rocky ‘The Legend’ once again returns (top), avoiding hazardous obstacles and bypassing troubling encounters on her journey north before settling in for the warm season. Fall reenergizes her for the migration back to a warmer, winter habitat (bottom) while navigating through as many threatening gauntlets.

uary could be potentially snowy early on. Expect more rain along the immediate shoreline during milder periods. Therefore, ponds and smaller inland bodies of water south of I-95 may form ice, but the proximity to warmer LIS makes ice less reliable and slower to form. From Captain Morgan and Crew, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas, hope you had a Happy Chanukah, and are having a happy and healthy holiday season.“May your best fish caught in 2025 be surpassed by your Personal Best in 2026.” I’ll catch you after Thursday, Jan. 1. Happy New Year! Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.

For all things fishy, including the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2026 licenses/permits, and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call 203-245-8665 for updated winter hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer, and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better. Tight Lines, Captain Morgan captainmorganusa@hotmail.com captainmorgan-fish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa

SPORTS • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

Hand’s O’Malley Shines on the Gridiron as Lehigh Football Commit By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer

Life is all about being able to balance. Whether it is balancing work and personal life, responsibilities and free time, or for Daniel Hand High School senior Tim O’Malley, athletics and academics. For four years, Tim has been an integral part of Hand’s football team, starting on both offense and defense since he was a freshman and providing stability and leadership on the offensive and defensive line. Tim became the first freshman in program history to start both ways, having been a mainstay since the fall of 2022. Tim, along with his teammates, recently finished what was a campaign they will never forget, concluding their 2025 football season with a 37-13 victory against Killingly High School in the Class SS State Championship game. It is the 15th state title in the school’s history, and while it was a momentous occasion for Tim, he now reflects on the fact that it was the last time that he will be able to play with his high school teammates, and he remembers the fond memories that he has made with them. “This senior season has really meant a lot to me, obviously it’s been an emotional one for my teammates and I,” Tim says. “Seeing guys like Bobby Reh and Brendan Riordan get their opportunities to step up this season has really been huge. That really is what I have appreciated about my senior year. This has been such a great group of guys, and I love how we have been able to face adversity and come out stronger.” When it comes to said adversity, Tim reflects on Hand’s only loss this football season, a close 28-27 defeat at home to Cheshire. While it was a loss that stung Tim and his teammates, he says that it was the fuel that the team needed and was something that helped the Tigers to get prepared for the playoffs. “We never sidetracked from

Sports Person Week of the

our goal, we just kept traveling north,” he says. “It helped get us to our end goal, and we didn’t let that game haunt us for the rest of the season. It motivated us even more.” Tim’s father Ed O’Malley, who has been one of Tim’s biggest supporters both on and off the field, mentions the maturity and the poise that Tim has shown through this process, and also never forgetting where he came from, who his friends are, and what is most important. “Since day one, I know that a lot has been asked of him,” Ed says. “He has always stayed close to his friends in his class, which is a testament to his loyalty to his friends. He has never left people behind, he brings people along with him. On the field, he has been amazing. It is a lot to be asked to play both sides of the ball and to navigate it without injury.” While Tim earned All-State recognition on both offense and defense in 2024 and was named a tri-captain for the team this season, it’s his work ethic and personality off the field that shine through the most. In addition to putting forth 100% effort every day with the sport he loves, he has also managed to remain studious and excel in the classroom, and his kindness and character truly stand out. Tim has won Hand’s Golden Tiger award twice in his four years as recognition for being the kindest student among his peers. Hand football Head Coach Erik Becker acknowledges the heart and dedication that Tim brings to the football field every day. His type of athlete is very rare, and Becker knows the program will miss him tremendously.

“Timmy O’Malley is a coach’s dream - relentless motor, great teammate, outstanding captain sets the example every day with his words and actions,” said Becker. He is big, strong, and fast - very athletic with great feet, plays with incredible fundamentals. In the storied 55-year history of our program, we have only had one player start every game of their high school career on both sides of the ball. That player is Tim O’Malley. He will be remembered as an all-time great in Hand Football history. Lehigh is getting a great one.” Now looking towards the future, Tim recently made the decision to further not only his football career, but also his academic career, at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, which won the Patriot League Championship this past fall and went on to make it to the second round of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs. After receiving 18 Division I offers to play football and study at some of the best schools in the country, including every Ivy League school, Tim ultimately settled for a place that made him feel right at home from the start. “I’m so happy I have the opportunity to play under Coach Kevin Cahill at Lehigh,” Tim says. “For me it comes down to relationships, and out of all of the staffs that I met with, I had the best relationship with that one. Along this whole process, I have had the privilege of getting to meet such great people. The coaches at Lehigh treated my family like extended family, and I am really excited to play for four more years there.” For Tim and his parents, getting to receive a good education in addition to a great opportunity to further his playing career was very important. While the decision process was going on, Ed and his wife Liz O’Malley made sure to help Tim in a direction that was going to benefit his future in the best way possible. “The whole recruiting process

Photo courtesy of Ed O'Malley

Senior Tim O'Malley shined on both sides of the ball for Hand football, and he is continuing his academic and athletic career at Lehigh University next year.

gave Timmy the opportunity to see what each school could provide not only when it came to football, but also academically and culturally,” Ed says. “Him being able to visit all of these different schools and coaching staffs we think is going to bode well for him in the future. We wanted to make sure he had a great experience athletically, academically, and socially.”

Life is moving fast for Tim, with basketball season now approaching, but he has never forgotten to appreciate and recognize the important aspects of his life, and the support that he has around him. He will be making the move down to Lehigh in the fall, with the goal of making an impact in whatever way he can at his new school.

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • SPORTS

Country School Runners Excel at National Junior Olympic Championships

Hand Wrestling Takes a Loss in Opening Match By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor

By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor

Country School runners turned in one of the strongest performances in program history at the United States Track and Field National Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships, held on Dec. 13 at the Blue River Cross Country Course in Indiana, IN, amid snow-covered, challenging conditions. Seven-year-old Simon Ouellet of Killingworth opened the meet with a personal best in the 2000 meters, finishing third in New England and first in Connecticut. In the older divisions, Lexie Killam of Madison placed first in New England and 41st nationally in the 3000 meters out of 247 nine and 10-year-old runners. Her sister Liv Killam, also competing in the 3000 meters, finished first in New England and 29th overall in a Photo courtesy of John Fixx field of more than 300 11 and Country School runners in 7th Grader Liv Killam, 8th 12-year old runners. Team captain Maddie Staib of Grade Captain Maddie Staib, and 5th Grader Lexie KilMiddletown placed second in lam all competed in the National Junior Olympic ChamConnecticut in the 4000 meters pionships on Dec. 13. and helped lead the Danbury Hatters Track Club to a seventh place The Country School, celebrating its 70th national finish, the best team result at this anniversary, serves 200 students in preage level in Country School history. Coun- school through eighth grade on its 23-acre try School alumnus Luke Schupp of Madi- campus in Madison. The school’s five Sigson, now running for Avon Old Farms, fin- nature Programs—STEAM (Science, ished 10th nationally in his age group to Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), earn All-American Junior Olympic honors. Outdoor Education, Public Speaking, Four additional Country School athletes Elmore Leadership, and Global Citizenqualified for the national championships ship—help develop students into the but were unable to compete. The Junior leaders of tomorrow. Learn more and Olympic Championships draw elite youth schedule a tour to see the campus in action runners from all 50 states who advance at www.thecountryschool.org. through regional qualification.

HIGH

Tides MADISON

Dec. 25 to Dec. 31

Day 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

A.M. 2:06 2:52 3:42 4:35 5:32 6:31 7:29

P.M. 2:19 3:10 4:05 5:04 6:06 7:08 8:07

On Dec. 17, the Hand wrestling team opened its season vs. East Haven and lost 4131. Bryce Simmons won by technical fall (18-4) in the 106pound bout, and Jackson Dilzer won by an 18-12 decision at 126 pounds. Wyatt Roberts (144 pounds) won by fall, while Michael Lavin (150 pounds) also won by fall. Nathan Barroso competed at 175 pounds and won by default, and Andrew King won by technical fall (16-0) at 190 pounds. Hand’s Evelyn Lavigne competed against Juliana Porcu of North Branford at 138 pounds and won by fall.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Source

Wyatt Roberts (144 pounds) won by fall in Hand wrestling's 41-31 loss vs. East Haven on Dec. 17.

Schedules HAND b

Saturday, Dec. 27: at Hillhouse at 5:30 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 29: at Hall at 7:20 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 27: vs. NFA at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30: vs. Guilford at 1 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 27: at Morgan at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30: at Guilford at noon

Saturday, Dec. 27: at Watertown-Pomperaug-Holy Cross at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30: at Milford at 10:45 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 29: at Xavier at 3:45 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball Girls’ Basketball

Boys’ Ice Hockey

Girls’ Ice Hockey Wrestling

Boys’ Swimming and Diving

H-K b

Tuesday, Dec. 30: vs. East Hampton at 7 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 29: at Hall at 7:20 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 30: at East Hampton at 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 27: at Rockville at 10 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 27: at Hamden at noon Tuesday, Dec. 30: vs. New Milford at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 23: at Valley Regional w/ Stonington at 2 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball Girls’ Basketball Boys’ Ice Hockey

Girls’ Ice Hockey Wrestling Gymnastics

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**WANTED** Firearms Single or Collections ______________________ Including military and related items. Federal firearms license. Appraisals. ______________________ Richard Pleines 860-663-2214

Rental

Announcements

&classified ads

place search

online at www.zip06.com

Finished with your newspaper?

Help us

keep the shoreline green by recycling this paper.

16 • CLASSIFIEDS • THE SOURCE

DECEMBER 25, 2025 BUILDING & REMODELING

BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

Brilliant Basement Basement Waterproofing Services 50 Years combined experience. Egress Windows, Foundation Repair, Sump Pumps, Pumps Eliminated in most homes. Crawl Spaces, Gravity Drains, Landscaping Drainage, Gutter Downspout Drains • Mold Remediation

REE

F Estimates

Casanova Builders, LLC

HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTING

d239532

Waterproofing, LLC

MR. FIX IT

Since 1956

Kitchens • Bathrooms Basement Plumbing • Electrical I Will Call Back!

203-245-2592 203-458-8222

www.mrfixitllc.com

Addition • Decks • Flooring • Attic/Basement Remodeling • Finish Carpentry • Custom Ceramic, Marble & • Siding Granite Tile Work & Counter Tops • Total Custom Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Interior & Exterior Painting • Windows Lic. #561417 ~ Insured ~ Work Guaranteed 203-444-6297 Joseph Casanova Jr. • • • Gutters • Siding • Repairs • Siding • Windows • Windows24MO 0% OR 860-230-0853ROOFING RI SIDING • Gutters • Gutters $500 OFF WINDOWS • Repairs • Repairs DOORS GUTTERS 860-230-0853 860-230-0853 24MO24MO 0% OR 0% OR RI RI FAMILY TRADITION SINCE 1955 DECKS $500 OFF $500 OFF 860.230.0853

Stephen S. Simonetti Licensed & Insured Lic. #578530

Don't just be smart, be brilliant!

Reg #43858

Reg #0654527

*credit terms apply 24 mo 0%

www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com

Reg #0654527

HIC. 0653192 • CALL US

860-598-8091

Reg #0654527

www.jfkroofing.com * credit terms apply

Reg #0654527

860-552-6027 Reg #43858

Reg #43858

*credit terms apply 24 mo 0% 24 mo 0% *credit terms apply

Reg #43858

BUILDING & REMODELING

Shoreline Deck Company, LLC Making Ideas Happen

Additions • Dormers • Decks Basements • Roofs • Rip Jobs Build Up or Build Out We Do It All!

Since 1981 38 Years Exp.

T. Robert’s Construction, LLC

Additions, Bathrooms, Pergolas, Pool Houses, Pavilions, Outdoor Kitchens

J&P RESTORATION General Contractor J.A. Petrillo - Owner

From Design To Completion

Fully Insured

Lic #563264

(203) 507-6902 • Branford, CT

Repairs • Remodeling ALL TYPES OF BUILDING REPAIRS $50.00 per hour

Roofing Remodeling Additions Kitchens Garages Masonry Decks Gutters

Siding Sheet Rock Bathrooms Paper Hanging Painting Plumbing Electrical Windows

Please call for a free design consultation & estimate

Carpentry • Doors • Locks Windows • Stairs • Closets Decks • Drywall • Painting

www.shorelinedeck.com | chris@shorelinedeck.com

Jim 203-530-2670

203-982-5436

DECKS

DRYWALL

203-453-2333

Small jobs are fine

HIC.0547261

CLEANING SERVICES

DECK RESTORE

Home & Business Cleaning info@geniemaids.com

WINDOWS DOORS SIDING GUTTERS ROOFING

(203) 392-4516

Guilford, CT. Licensed & Insured

Free Estimates HIC # 0646127

Decks/Hardwood Floors Decks Cleaned/Repaired/Sanded &Power Stained • Hardwood Floors Washing of Homes Patios & Walkways Power Washed Protect your investment, Free Estimates beautify your home.

203-996-4981 Brian

ELECTRICAL

HOME IMPROVEMENT, LLC DECKS KITCHENS BATHROOMS ADDITIONS CARPENTRY PAINTING

Sanding/Refinishing Softwash House Cleaning

licensed /insured HIC #0678344

SKY CITY

Marc Geoghegan License #ELC.0203098-E1 Fully Insured

Remodeling/Additions Kitchens, Baths, Finished Basements Generators and Service upgrades Troubleshooting • Free Estimates

860.331.9901

4gelectricct@gmail.com • fb.me/4GElectric

HIC.0560655

LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590

Daniel Brown Electric LLC • New Construction • Generators Chargers • Remodeling/ • Car Landscape Lighting Additions • Pools • Service Upgrades • Troubleshooting • Kitchens • Baths • Finished Basements

860-399-4444

CT License #199056-E1 Licensed & Fully Insured P.O. Box 221, Westbrook, CT 06498

Seasons Greetings from

THE SOURCE • CLASSIFIEDS • 17

DECEMBER 25, 2025 EXCAVATING

GUTTER CLEANING

CLUTTER IN THE GUTTER

EXCAVATION DEMOLITION & SITE PACKAGES Building Lots Cleared and Developed Site Excavation for New Homes, Additions & Garages Septic Systems, Utilities Trenching

The Original

FOUNDATIONS & CONCRETE WORK

Complete Site Work - Paving - Driveways Mulch, Stone, Screened Topsoil,

Foundations & Concrete Work Additions, Garage Foundations Barns, Slabs & Structural Piers Retaining Walls

Owner/ Operator Scott Behler

SEAWALL & DOCK CONSTRUCTION

Sand & Gravel House Sites, Septic Systems, Demolition

Seawall Masonry Repointing Boulder and Revetment Stone Dock Repairs & Pile Installations.

HIC #0634550

Why Hire 3 Contractors When K.E.Braza Construction Handles The Entire Site Process?

Water Mains, Sewers 756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT

• We Demo We Dig and We Pour your Foundation 1 Contractor 1 Price • Make The Call This Fall, Get it Done Before Next Season Direct: 860-662-0124 | Office: 860-399-5290

www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665

25 Year Family Business Proudly Serving Connecticut Shoreline

www.KEBrazaConstruction.com GUTTERS

Green Gloves L Gutters, LC

SEAMLESS GUTTERS • Installation • Repair • Cleaning • Roofing • Window Replacement • Remodeling • Gutter Gaurds • Siding

Scott’s Gutter Fully Insured Cleaning

No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters Roof Repairs • Handyman Services Power Washing • Roof Washing Black Stains & Algae Removal Prompt Courteous Service, Done on Time

203-466-0520

JUNK REMOVAL

LANDSCAPING

203-530-7191

SEAMLESS GUTTERS PLUS

Gutter Installation • Gutter Guards Gutter Cleaning • Maintenance Program abguttersplus.com We do half-round, seamless gutters

Joe Scala

Fully Insured | HIC. 061885 References upon request

LANDSCAPING

203-245-9448

Commercial & Residential

JUNK REMOVAL SERVICES

Locally Owned and Operated Family Business

• General Waste Removal • Construction Debris • Sheetrock Demo • Shed and Deck Demo & Removal • Oil Tanks and Drums • Garage Cleanouts

We Donate & Recycle!

SERVING MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW HAVEN COUNTY & FAIRFIELD COUNTY

860-415-3313

GREENGLOVESGUTTERS.COM

www.thecleanoutcompanyllc.com

LANDSCAPING

HIRE A VETERAN

Lic. # 0653900

203.727.6405

Ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com

• Landscaping • Painting • Mowing • Trimming • Masonry Service • Mulching • Gutter Cleaning • Powerwashing • Small Tree Removal • Fall & Spring Clean-Ups

LANDSCAPING

COUNTRY HILL LANDSCAPING Eric Werle • Guilford, CT 06437

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

203-457-0483

Fall Leaf Removal Full Lawn Service Walls & Walkways Spring Cleanup Mulch Work

Tree Work Snow Plowing Planting Tractor Work Pruning

SERVICING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1988

Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • CONDO

Weekly Mowing Spring/Fall Clean Ups Aerating & Overseeding Pruning Mulching

Landscape Design & Installation Paver Patios & Walkways Retaining Walls Cobblestone Poolscapes Fire Pits Outdoor Kitchens Concrete Fencing CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

www.violalandscaping.com

Fully licensed HIC #0561037 & Insured

NOW SERVICING THE SHORELINE AREA FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

• Irrigation Systems Installs/Maintenance • Lawn & Landscape Maintenance • Fertilizing & Tick Control • Retaining Walls • Architectural Pavers: Poolside & Patios • New Lawn Installations: Sod Installs/Hydroseed • Excavations & Drainage • Landclearing/Foundation: Dozer Site Work • Dumpster Services Serving the Shoreline Area Since 1996

CELEBRATING OVER 41 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

860-635-1030 office@violalandscapingllc.com

Call today for consultation (860) 767-2811 www.sullivanlawnservices.com FERT #B2547

CT HIC #0606162 CT Lic# P1-0204385

18 • CLASSIFIEDS • THE SOURCE

DECEMBER 25, 2025

LANDSCAPING

MASONRY

CHAMPLIN’S LANDSCAPING & EXCAVATION • Fall Clean Up • Snow Plowing • Shrub Pruning • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding SENIOR DISCOUNT

OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP

860-510-3509

Father & Son Masonry

SOSOLI’S

• Fence Repair • Gravel Driveways • Excavator Work • Shed Demolition • Junk Removal

MOVING & HAULING

Over 30 years experience Specializing In:

M AS O N RY, L LC

Stonewalls, Seawalls, Special Steps, Patios, Sidewalks, Swimming Pools, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Belgium Block, Blue Stone Pavers, Stucco, Big & Small Jobs Welcomed We do it all!

HIC.0618942

Stone Walls • New Fireplaces Special Steps • Stone Design Swimming Pools • Sidewalks • Stucco Chimneys • Patio Bricks & Blocks Small & Large Jobs

FULLY INSURED

PAINTING

10% OFF WITH THIS AD Commercial & Residential Interior/Exterior Painting • Power Washing - Staining Free Estimate/Fully Insured/Licensed CT HIC.0578520

203-483-5590 203-645-8717 Valentinopaintingllc@yahoo.com

Specialized Masonry Work Owner on Every Job 30 Years Experience Free Estimates

“No Job Too Small”

Will do Dump Runs also. Call Luke at

203-464-0444 PAINTING Quality Work Since 1987

M.A. PAINTING

MARTIN ARDOLINO CTHIC#0638601

Serving the Shoreline with Pride Great Prices Italian Craftsmanship All Work Guaranteed

(exp. 4.30.25)

NEED SOMETHING MOVED?

Interior/Exterior • Minor Carpentry Popcorn Ceiling Removal Wallpaper Removal

RogeR CRampton RogeR CRampton Cell (203) 598-2524

Cell: 203-510-9162 - Jeff Office: 203-565-9079 - Jimmy

www.greatmason.com

HIC.0571018 Fully Insured Free Estimates

PLUMBING SERVICES

c: 203.430.4194 • martinardolino@gmail.com

POWERWASHING

PLUMBING l HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING

PLUMBING l HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING RogeR Rampton RogeR C ogeRC CRampton Rampton Gold Star Painting Specialists N E W I NPLUMBING S TA Ll LHEATING AT I Ol AIR N SCONDITIONING O R R E PA I R S

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Connecticut Shoreline

INSTALLATIONS N NEW EW SSTA OORRREPAIRS RREEPA W IIN N TALLLLAT ATIIO ONNSSOR PAI IRRSS

Dominic Bosco

Boilers, Water Well pumps, Water Heaters •Water Well Pumps Boilers, Water•Heaters, Heaters, Well pumps, ••Boilers filtration Well Tanks, Water filtration, Faucets, Well Tanks, Water filtration, Faucets, Faucets, • Leaking Pipes • Water Filtration Well Tanks, Water filtration, •Boilers, Water Heaters •Rampton Faucets ogeR Water Heaters, Well pumps,PRESSURE WASHING Leaking pipes, Gas piping Leaking pipes, Gas piping N E W IogeR S TA L L AT I N S O R R E PA• ICement R S & Patios n o Rampton t p m a R R e g o •PLUMBING Faucets •lO Well Tanks •N Well pumps • Leaking pipes l HEATING AIR CONDITIONING pipes, Gas piping WellLeaking Tanks, Water filtration, Faucets, Tanks Gas PLUMBING•NWell lESERVING G HEATING NII N IT860-434-2200 I860-434-2200 DLlLNTHE AIR OCI •ORCONDITIONING IN AS lOPiping GRNRITEAPA EHI RlS GNIBMU•LPTennis Courts W NO S TA AT SHORELINE

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office: 203-245-7144 cell: 203-444-3465 dominic@GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com www.GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com

Fully insured CT liclic# #P1-204812 Fully insured PLUMBING ll HEATING INOOCONDITIONING IDNNOOCCRRIIAA ll GGNNIITTAAEEHH lCT l GGNNIIBBP1-204812 MULP PLUMBING HEATINGGGlN l NAIR IAIR N ICONDITIONING TITID M

Leaking pipes, Gas piping

860-434-2200

NEW OO O ISSIRN OIITTAALLLLA ATTSSN NII W WE N W IIN NSSTA TALLLLAT ATIIO OSSNN RRSISIAA PPRERERRRERERPA O PA RNSSO

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860-434-2200 0022-434-06860-434-2200 8 860-701-4200 0022-434-068 Call 203-318-0308 • whitegloveservicesct.com 218402-1P # cil TC derusni ylluF www.RogerCramptonLLC.com moc.CLLnotpmaCT rClicre#gP1-204812 oR.www 22-434-068 dewww.RogerCramptonLLC.com rusni ylluF 00ROOFING

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HARRISON

www.RogerCramptonLLC.com

Roofing Specialists 24-Hour Emergency Service Available

860-526-2127

Roofing Gutter Cleaning EPDM Roofing Flat Roofs COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL COVONERESTORATION.COM

2 V_70 9718 D CT lic # P1-204812

D817907_V2 218402-1P # cil TC

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A AboveThe TheRest Rest A Roof Roof Above

ROOFING

Celebrating 30 yrs. of service with 15% Off All Year! New Roofs & Roof Repairs

PAYMENTS AVAILABLE!

RESTORATION,LLC

BBB

203-668-0833 office-203-468-9889 cell-

East Haven, CT 06512

Family Owned & Lic. #613241 Insured Financing Available Family/ Fully Owned & /Operated Operated

ROOFING

Lic.#538272 • Fully Insured

A+ Rated

203-453-5571 203-453-5571 Family Owned & Operated

www.ENHRestoration.com www.ENHRestoration.com

ROOFING • SIDING • GUTTERS Lic. #613241 / Fully Insured / Financing Available

CT Reg No. 00509027

Fully insured

CT Reg No. 00509027

Fully insured

218402-1P # cil TC

INC.

“Quality Roofing Since 1928” “Quality Roofing • Shingle RoofsSince 1928” Shingle Roofs• Leaders • Flat Roofs • Seamless Gutters Flat Roofs •••Shingle Roofs • Leaders • Repairs • Skylights • Slate Repairs ••Flat Roofs Gutters • Repairs Seamless ••Seamless • Skylights Leaders Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates SlateInsured Repairs• Licensed •Gutters Repairs ••Fully • Skylights

www.russoroofing.com Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates (203) 562-8077 • Slate www.russoroofing.com Repairs CT Reg No. 00509027 • Fully Insured • Licensed

Residential • Commercial (203) 562-8077 (203) 624-ROOF Free Estimates www.russoroofing.com • Fully Insured • Licensed

(203) 624-ROOF

THE SOURCE • CLASSIFIEDS • 19

DECEMBER 25, 2025 ROOFING

SKYWAY

Residential

ROOFING • SIDING • WINDOWS

Restoration LLC

$500 Off

ROOFINGProfessionals

Complete Roofing, Siding or Window Estimate

Complete job with coupon. Expires day time of estimate.

FINANCING Roofing / Siding / Gutters / Skylights / Windows / Doors AVAILABLE 0% Interest 1000’S OF SATISFIED HOMEOWNERS! 18 Months Have your project done the RIGHT way, 60 Months Low Interest with SKYWAY. FATHER & SONS OWNED & OPERATED

CALL TODAY 203-623-9503 ShorelineRoofing.com TREE SERVICES

BENNY’S ROOFING & REMODELING, LLC

CT License #603258

CT Lic #06032512 Residential/CommercialCT•License New Roofs • Re-Roofs(All Types) #603258

Residential/Commercial • New Roofs • Re-Roofs(All Types) All Types of Chimney Flashing All Types of Flashing Work Seamless Gutters Demolition CT License #603258

203-234-1906 | 203-671-1368

All Types ofResidential/Commercial Chimney Flashing • All Types of Flashing Work • New Roofs Residential/Commercial • New Roofs • Re-Roofs(All Types)• Re-Roofs(All Types) •Demolition Seamless Gutters •Flashing Types of Chimney Flashing • All Types of Flashing Work All Types of ChimneyAll Flashing • All Types of Work • • Demolition Insured • All Work Warranteed Seamless Gutters Seamless Fully Gutters • Demolition Prices ••Free Estimates Fully Insured •Reasonable All Work Warranteed Reasonable Prices • Free Etstimates Fully Insured • All Work Warranteed

www.skyway-roofing.com

Fully Insured • All Work Warranteed Reasonable Reasonable Prices • 203-640-9820 Free Estimates Prices • Free Estimates

203-640-9820 manolyroofing@aol.com 203-640-9820 203-640-9820 bennysroofingremodeling@gmail.com A+ Rating CT License #603258 manolyroofing@aol.commanolyroofing@aol.com

Senior & Veteran Discounts CT License #603258 CT License #603258 CT Lic #06032512

Licensed & Insured Lic. #0573204

A+ Rating

TOP NOTCH TREE, LLC • Full Service Tree Removal • Land/Lots Cleared • Brush Piles Chipped • 60’ Aerial Truck/Climbers • Stump Grinding OWNER ON EVERY JOB

860-552-9376

We Make Tree Work Affordable

Rating A+A+Rating

TREE SERVICES &

Over 20 Years Experience Clinton, CT

LANDSCAPE & TREE SERVICE

Free Estimates - Fully Insured - Competitive Prices

Lawn Mowing • Spring & Fall Clean-ups • Mulching • Pruning Tree Removal • Planting • Diagnosis • Treatments • Stump Grinding

Tree Removal • Chipping • Storm Cleanup • Stump Grinding Shrub Trimming • Emergency Response • Line Clearance Certified

203-731-7710 • 1-877-669-1535

Same day call back. We accept credit cards. www.rttreeremoval.com • brian@rttreeremoval.com

A FULL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COMPANY Landscape & Lawncare Services

(860)227-2774

WATERPROOFING

$59Service CT.SumpPumpGeeks.com Only

Basement Waterproofing Services Over 31 years experience

FOOTING DRAINS GUTTER DOWNSPOUT DRAINS CRAWL SPACES LANDSCAPING DRAINAGE GRAVITY DRAINS CRACK SEALING SUMP PUMPS PUMP INSPECTIONS Lic & Ins. FREE Est.

860-639-7935

Schedule 12-Point Sump Pump Service

First Time Customers!

WINDOW CLEANING

ROWELLCLEANING CLEANING ROWELL SERVICELLC LLC SERVICE S

SPECIALIZING IN WINDOW CLEANING, SPECIALIZING IN RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING

WINDOW CLEANING, CARPETS & FLOORS RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIALTel. CLEANING P.O. Box 589,

Madison, CT 06443

203-245-8647

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SUDOKU

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SUDOKU

Brian Miller

Fun By The Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!

Last Week’s Answers

Here’s How It Works:

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • LIVING

Photo by Debbie Boone Bermel

The author's brother, Paul Bermel (second from left), and mother, Virginia Bermel (second from right), with Paul's children (from left), Colby, Lily, and Nathan.

Photo courtesy of Liz Egan

The author with her siblings and Christmas stockings

The Christmas Stocking By Liz Egan Special to Living

My family of origin has a beautiful Christmas tradition. Each of my siblings, their spouses, their children, and now their children’s children, possesses an heirloom Christmas stocking. Each one is hand-knit, 26 inches long, embellished with beads and bows, and has the given name knitted into the top of the stocking. Hearing the story of how this tradition began was one of my favorite moments with my mother. In 1954, my mother, Virginia Bermel, belonged to a then-popular Home Extension Group of community women who got together weekly, swapped recipes, knitted and did crafts, exchanged household tips, and shared their lives as women and homemakers. She was the mother of eight children with another on the way. My mother saw her friend Vi O’Connor knitting a Christmas stocking for her child during one meeting of the group. Upon seeing the Christmas stocking, she expressed her desire to make them for her own children. She ordered the yarn and pattern from Bernat, a yarn Hand-knit stockings hang above the fireplace.

Photo by Debbie Boone Bermel

company in Canada still operating today. She also purchased the Christmas tree pattern. Vi helped my mother by walking her through the knitting of her first stocking. Members of the group helped by starting, finishing, or making whole stockings. That first year, Christmas 1954, she completed nine stockings. She did not have time to make one for herself and my father. Our family’s tradition was to hang my father’s work socks from the banister leading upstairs, with each stocking pinned with a child’s name. With limited means, my mother stuffed a simple coloring book, crayons, and an orange which were found on Christmas Day by her excited children. On Christmas Eve 1954, each child put up the socks. After the children went to bed, my mother took down the work socks and hung the newly knitted Christmas stockings, each embedded with a child’s name. She filled them with the coloring books and went to bed. As my mother recounted, the squeals and looks of surprise that Christmas morning were See page 21

LIVING • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

Calendar for the Week of December 25, 2025

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

FRIDAY, DEC. 26 Red Cross Blood Drive: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-7332767) or visit redcrossblood.org. The Magic of the Honmoon: K-Pop Demon Hunters Music and Craft Event: 3 to 5 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features themed craft stations for children ages 5 to 12 with music from K-pop Demon Hunters. Free. No registration required. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 26 THROUGH TUESDAY, DEC. 30

Professor Sepoc’s Wizard School: 11 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a science program for children ages 5 to 12 exploring chemistry through hands-on activities. Free. Registration is required. For info or to regSchool Vacation Trolley Rides: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Cost: ister, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. $13 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for children ages 2 to Holiday Vacation Sing-along: 1 p.m. Chester Public 18, free for toddlers. Service fees apply. Tickets available Library, 21 W. Main St. For children in elementary school online or at the door. For info or tickets, visit shoreor younger. For info or to register, call 860-526-0018 or linetrolley.org/programs. visit ChesterCTlibrary.com/childrensprograms.

SATURDAY, DEC. 27 Fancy the Flamingo’s Christmas Adventure Story Time: 10:30 a.m. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. Features a reading by Connecticut author Tara Cantore from her book, Fancy the Flamingo’s Christmas Adventure, followed by a related craft activity. For info or to register (required), call 860-526-0018 or email library@chesterct.org.

Frames in Film Encore: Van Gogh of Wheat Fields and Clouded Skies: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen, in collaboration with the Florence Griswold Museum. Running time: 90 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

See page 23

The Christmas Stocking Continued from page 20 priceless. No picture exists of that moment. The memory in her heart lasted a lifetime. The following year, she knitted stockings for my father, herself, and a son who was born in March 1955. From that point, every time a child was born (she was to have 15 children), she knitted a stocking. Later, the company published a Santa pattern which she knitted for many of the spouses and grandchildren. She switched to acrylic yarn. As her children grew, she developed “guidelines.” A child had to be married, not engaged or living together. The spouse received a stocking the first Christmas after they were married. Subsequently, when a grandchild was born, a stocking would be knitted, and the family received a stocking for their child at the baby’s first Christmas. My mother taught all of her children to knit. Christmas gifts were few in our large family, but there was an annual gift that would often be a pair of hand-knit mittens. My mother was constantly knitting. This was often her relaxation after a long day. She would sit in her chair in the living room and teach us how to cast on, how to knit, how to purl, how to change colors, and how to cast off. We all learned by

making a headband with her leftover yarn for our first project—12 stitches across and knit, knit, knit, until it was done. Most of my siblings never did much more than knit that headband or a scarf if they were really interested (and wanted and needed a scarf!) I enjoyed knitting and, on and off, I kept it up over the years. In 2003, after 43 stockings, my mother developed macular degeneration in the midst of knitting a stocking for her great-grandson Matthew. I remember the day in the car, when she was knitting in the back seat and struggling with mistakes that were happening because she could not see clearly, even though she had the pattern memorized. Right then, I offered to finish Matty’s stocking, and I did. I have been making the stockings ever since. My mother died in 2010. I just finished my 33rd stocking just in time for a Christmas wedding. There are others already planned for 2026. I have switched back to the original Christmas tree pattern and use fine wool yarn. I purchased an entire dye lot of red, green, and white to last me until I pass this mantle on. My guidelines changed and I did make stockings for “significant others,” though I admit, I have made a few for folks whose engagements were broken, and I now see the wisdom of her guidelines. I have

worked my way through the dye lot of yarn and have purchased a second. With the exception of one stocking, I make them only for my immediate family who continue to grow and multiply. My mother’s grandchildren are still having children, and several are married. I have already made several for greatgrandchildren and I continue to knit about one to two Christmas stockings a year depending on who gets married and who is having a child. This year was a record year—I knitted four. During the COVID-19 crisis, I had to rethink many things in my life. One thing was my rule about who gets a Christmas stocking. I had a fixed rule for many years that there would be no “do-overs” as siblings asked for replacements when theirs shrank or were damaged. I think about this now and how silly it is. My mother made me a second stocking when mine was discarded by an ex during a divorce. When I got married, she made stockings for my husband and me as a surprise. They were the last two complete stockings she made, filled with mistakes, and inconsistencies, and my husband Paul and I cherished them. My sister Sheila had been begging me for years for a new Christmas stocking to replace the small, felted wool stocking that shrank to a stock when she washed it

years ago. She wanted the Santa pattern that matches the ones for her husband and children, a pattern I have not made in over 15 years. I sent it to her the Christmas of her 60th birthday. I have been meaning to type the story and the pattern for many years. I had drafted the story years ago when my mother was still alive and she could recount it orally. We mailed her story to Bernat in the hopes that we would get a fresh copy of the patterns. They did receive it, but the patterns are out of print, and they do not even have a sample in their archives. They published the story in their employee newsletter and sent me a box of their current Christmas yarns, which I never used, but still have. Traditions are the stories of our lives. The Christmas stocking means so much to each of my siblings. It has become a symbol of simpler, happier times. It means a great deal to them when I make one for their children and grandchildren. Life happens and sometimes it is a bitter pill to swallow. There are still many things that remain constant. Like the song from my parents’ favorite musical, Fiddler on the Roof, “Tradition.” Family. Love. Traditions. May you be blessed with them all.

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • LIVING

Page Turners As Many Souls as Stars By Natasha Siegel A woman makes a Faustian bargain with a creature of shadow in this dark, historical fantasy. In short: Two toxic lesbians, who love and hate each other, chase each other through the centuries. It has complex characters, witchcraft, and a great ending. If you liked Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab, you’ll love this book. — Marisa R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Enshittification By Cory Doctorow This is a book for everyone who has noticed big changes to their internet platforms and services over the years. Beginning with case studies, including Facebook and Amazon, Cory Doctorow explains in nontechnical terms why these changes occurred and offers positive solutions for improvements. — Marilyn R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

very 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.

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny By Kiran Desai This big book is worth the time to read. There is so much in it—family, love, loss, honesty, humor... I loved how it would break off into different “branches” and then find a way to circle back. Very similar to life. The writing is also just wonderful! — Lori R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Flurry, Float, and Fly!: The Story of a Snowstorm By Laura Purdie Salas and Chiara Fedele Gorgeous illustrations accompany spare text as the first snowflakes start to form. Overnight, the patient siblings are rewarded with a sledding hill covered in snow. Back matter on the science of snow makes this the perfect picture book. — Jamie R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

See page 23

LIVING • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

Page Turners Continued from page 22

Canticle By Janet Rich Edwards Canticle is a stunning, mesmerizing novel taking place in Belgium in 1295. Aleys is about to enter a forced marriage, but she has a higher calling. Is she an ordinary girl, a saint, a martyr? This is a look into Medieval religious orders and how women survived in strict insular communities with few rights. Incredible character development and hands-down my favorite historical fiction of 2025! — Julie A. R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Continued from page 21 Comedy at the Edge: 7:30 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by a trio of comedians from Comedy Craft Beer. For attendees 21 and older. Tickets: $25 per person. Cash bar available. For info, visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events.

59 Minutes By Holly Seddon If you had just under an hour before a nuclear strike, are you going to listen to the instructions to shelter in place immediately or get the lead out to go home to your loved ones? Look no further for a blood-pumping thriller that’s sure to get you racing through these bite-size chapters just as quickly as the characters within are searching for safety. Reminiscent of the TV show 24 or the film Nick of Time, the book warns there’s really no time to waste wondering if the alert for South England could be false. Just prepare whatever you can for a wild ride. — Mel R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

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

MONDAY, DEC. 29

Noon Year's Stuffed Animal Sleepover: 11:30 a.m. to noon. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Concert by Unforgettable Fire (Tribute to U2): 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Branford. For children of all ages. Features songs, dance, a story, and a countdown to noon to practice ushering in Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or 2026. For info or to register (required), call 203-315-6020 visit thekate.org. or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com. Saturday Cinema: 2 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 28 Red Cross Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Soundview Family YMCA, 628 E. Main St., Branford. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org. First Sunday Service After Christmas: 10 a.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Road (Rte. 79), Madison. Features a service of Lessons and Carols and communion. For info, contact 203-928-7483 or beecher.lou@gmail.com.

Red Cross Blood Drive: 12:45 to 6 p.m. First Congregational Church, 26 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org. Concert by Dar Williams: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

TUESDAY, DEC. 30 Creation Lab: 10 am to noon. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr., Westbrook. Children will use their imagination, creativity, and a variety of art supplies, to create something of their own. Drop-ins welcome. Registration is not required. For info, call 860-399-6422.

Ms. Rae’s School of Faeries: 5 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a program for ages 5 to 12 led by Ms. Rae, introducing participants to different types of fairies and their folklore. Children will make small offerings to place outdoors. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. New Year's Stuffed Animal Sleepover: 5:30 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Children are invited to bring a stuffed animal for an evening of songs and a craft activity. The stuffed animal spends the night at the library for the children to pick up the following day. For children ages 4 to 11. For info or to register (required), call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com. Winter-Inspired Sea Glass Ornaments Craft Workshop: 5:30 to 7 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Led by Courtney of Re-loved Designs. All supplies provided. For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org. Pickin’ Party: 6 to 8 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.

See page 25

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • LIVING

The Christmas Telescope By The Rev. Bill Keane Special to Living

The stars have always held a great fascination for me. Space has never meant emptiness, but a realm of wonder and mystery. I may have only been 5 years of age when John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth, but I still remember studying the small 9-inch globe that had his three-fold circumnavigation proudly imprinted on its surface complete with a tiny Mercury capsule marking the route. Watching the astronauts risking their lives riding tails of flame beyond the atmosphere was a distinct thrill all on its own, but it was never quite enough because, like probably millions of others of impressionable children, I wanted to go with them. Even years later following the Challenger disaster, if by some wild happenstance I had been asked to ride on the very next shuttle launch, I’d have enthusiastically accepted. So it was in 1965 at age 10, with exultant joy I opened up a long and weighty Christmas present that turned out to be an astronomical telescope. It was white with black trim—a 60 mm Tasco refractor, mounted on a heavy, pebble-finish tripod with adjustable legs. While the scope was only two-tone, the photographs on the box were full-color renditions of the places I wanted to be: nearby planets and distant galaxies—all incredibly attractive because they were not the Earth. This beloved instrument that I assembled as carefully as a nuclear device was not simply a steel tube with glass lenses. It was my personal spaceship and time machine. It was my very own vehicle of ascent, my Atlas, my Apollo, a special means to go beyond the clouds and back in time. Not bad for the contents of just one box under a green tree! For some reason, mid-60s New Jersey winters seemed a lot colder than they are now. With a boatload of desire, but precious little experience, I took my unwieldy optical assembly and ventured enthusiastically forth into the arctic December air on top of snow that had a polished, thick crust supporting my weight. Temperatures hovered in the high single digits, but I had forgone the use of gloves, because wasting precious seconds finding them meant the risk of missing the discovery of a new comet or some other once-in-a-lifetime celestial phenomena. Sure it was freezing, but who could be cold on a sparkling crisp night with destiny beckoning from above? Certainly not I! Now what some newcomers to astronomy don’t realize is that pointing a telescope at a specific object in the sky with any success is as much art as sci-

ence—almost intuitive more than intellectual. My finder-scope, though firmly attached, was not properly aligned. The moon was nowhere in sight, and so selecting the smallest number eyepiece—not realizing it would also render the highest power and tiniest expanse—I vainly attempted to snag a star in my increasingly bleak field of view. Playing the optical tube back and forth manually on its alt-azimuth mount, I experienced not even the faintest glint of accomplishment. Twenty or so bone-chilling minutes passed as fascination gave way to increasing frustration. I was all set to give up, feeling ignorant and inept, as my high hopes in trolling the heavens were yielding no positive results when all of a sudden, there it was! A glimmer, a streak of light as I almost off-handedly pushed the scope to the left. With the field resuming its customary jet-black appearance, I carefully reversed my course and found it again! Actually, “it” was “them.” Glistening like jewels on dark velvet were my pearls of cherished wisdom, sparkling brighter than I could have imagined and bigger than I would have thought possible. Perhaps I had just discovered a new constellation, or maybe it was an old one, but it didn’t matter. My bare hands were sticking to the barrel and attachments of the scope, but I didn’t care. There I was atop the frozen tundra, standing with the greats: Isaac Newton, Galileo Galilei, and now little Billy Keane, masters of the cosmos! Maybe it was the incredibly high expectation or the increasingly low temperature, but I went over the deep end to such an extent that it took quite a while before it dawned on me that what I thought I was seeing, I couldn’t possibly be seeing. Something was strangely wrong with this marvelously beguiling vision. My first inkling that “all that glitters…” came when with a short gust of wind, the “stars” moved, or rather bounced. Carefully, I tightened the relevant bearings and continued my endeavor. Yet as the wind returned so too did the dance of the sparkling gems—too much to be accounted for by the flimsy mount. Perhaps it was the 90-degree eyepiece holder that forced one to look down to see up. More probably it was that my heart was so thrilled I had shut off my mind. While I am still tempted to blame the equipment, I am now totally sure that my desire to see a star set me up to concentrate on something that might not actually be a star. I was so hopeful of finding something that I was willing to fixate on anything. And so it was that observing what I dreamed was some distant cluster containing the secrets of the universe I had in fact honed in on a telephone wire holding

Photo by Rev. Bill Keane

Moon Over La Jolla

shiny droplets of ice! My yearning to see the light across a galaxy had become my delusional study of frost across the street! I was heartbroken. With the sour taste of complete failure rising in my throat, tears welled up in my eyes and froze on my face as I angrily snatched the mechanism that had magnified my stupidity and retreated inside. Leaving the vehicle of my galactic humiliation on the outer porch I went to bed thinking I would never search the evening sky again. Call it extreme tenacity or raw stubbornness, in time—once the ashes of my simmering anger and embarrassment cooled—I found myself once again out among the stars, noticing one particularly high in the sky. This could be no icy pretender! Removing the eyepiece altogether and using the diagonal as a finder, in relatively short order I managed to place a gleaming speck within view. Carefully placing the lowest ocular in the receptacle, I focused in and resolved an image still vividly etched in my brain almost 35 years hence. There, in crisp detail was not a bluish or white pinpoint of fire, but a disk. Looking more closely, or rather more patiently and carefully, I noticed this disk was loaded with detail—stripes running across its body, a spot not far from the equator, and four tiny dots unevenly spaced along a line extending out from the edge! As accidentally as I had stumbled upon frozen water stuck on a wire, I had now found the cloud-belts, Great Red Spot, and major moons of Jupiter. Not as big as in

the pictures, but so much better! Years away from attaining a driver’s license, I had covered the distance from a New Jersey backyard to the visual glide path approaching our largest planet. At age 10, peering through a budget refractor, I experienced what remains to be one of the greatest spiritual charges of my life. Years later when I would read the psalmist proclaim that “the heavens are declaring the glory of God,” I knew precisely what he meant. On a cold winter’s night, a small boy heard a message that still echoes in his soul. Consider that in physical essence if we are made of stardust, then astronomy is the universe awakening and looking back upon itself. For more than three decades, both with and without equipment, even in the daytime, I have practiced the ancient art of cosmic self-awareness. I have been transported and transformed, traveling as far as any astronaut and expanding my mind with what I have beheld in my eyes. That is what astronomy, ineptly begun with an awkward apparatus, has meant to me. Almost always in looking heavenward toward the sky and the grandeur that is our past, I have come away feeling better about our future and about myself. For if what has gone before us is so beautiful and marvelous, how can what follows be any less magnificent? The Rev. Bill Keane is the chaplain of the Branford Police and Fire departments and a disaster spiritual care responder for the Red Cross.

LIVING • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

2025’s Big News and Best Productions in New York and Connecticut Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater By Karen Isaacs Columnist

Happy Holidays! This week’s column will highlight the most important Connecticut theater news AND the most memorable shows I saw in Connecticut and NYC. (My NYC theatergoing was very limited in the first five months of the year.) Two Upcoming Departures: New Haven theater will have two new leaders by this time next year. James Bundy, longtime artistic director of Yale Rep and dean of the Geffen School of Drama at Yale University, will retire in June. Long Wharf’s artistic director, Jacob Padrón, also announced his departure. Rebounding: One artistic director told me during COVID that it would take five years for theater to come back. It may not have made it totally, but Connecticut theaters have reported their best attendance since the pandemic. Goodspeed, in particular, had high attendance for its shows. Money Issues: The sudden loss of federal funding caused sleepless nights for most theaters, as already awarded grants were rescinded. The funding uncertainty offset the good news of attendance rises.

Aisle ON THE

rific production; this fall, Lincoln Center offered an even better production, which did not seem possible. Small Musicals: When people ask me for shows to see on Broadway, I mention two shows that aren’t typical, glitzy Broadway shows. Maybe Happy Ending by Guilford native Will Aronson (and collaborator Hue Park) and Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York are quirky, small musicals that utterly delighted me and everyone I know who has seen them. The acting, the directing, the stories, and the music enchant. Maybe Happy Ending won multiple Tony awards. Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends: Even though it wasn’t great, this review of Sondheim’s music originated as a onenight-only London concert following Sondheim’s death. The Broadway version, starring Bernadette Peters, Lea Salonga, Gavin Lee, Beth Leavel, and others, was a delight. All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914: Whether you classify it as a concert or a musical, this Playhouse on Park prob duction was exquisite, with incredible a My Best of 2025: The Musicals cappella harmonies and fine direction, as Ragtime: Two productions of this musi- well as being thoughtful and moving. cal, one of my favorites, made the list. My Fair Lady: Ivoryton Playhouse Goodspeed opened its season with a ter- mounted a delightful production of this big Continued from page 23

TUESDAY, DEC. 30 AND WEDNESDAY, DEC. 31

musical. Inventive staging and fine performances captured the show almost perfectly. Waitress: Ridgefield’s ACT-CT theater offered an excellent production of Waitress. Goodspeed: The best musical production of 2025, the Rob Ruggiero-directed anniversary production of A Chorus Line was the best musical I saw. But Goodspeed didn’t stop there, with a terrific production of All Shook Up and, at the Terris Theater in Chester, the delightful The Great Emu War. Camelot: Barrington Stage Company’s revival of this musical—which has always had some book issues—was excellent with a terrific singing and acting cast. I’m glad I made the trek to Pittsfield. b

My Best of 2025: The Plays New York: George Clooney made his Broadway debut in a stage adaptation of Good Night, and Good Luck. The production made effective and appropriate use of projections and videos. Clooney surrounded himself with an outstanding cast, but he more than held his own as Edward R. Murrow. Off-Broadway, Lunar Eclipse was a tender exploration of senior relationships featuring a stunning performance by Reed Birney. But the best production I saw this year was Oedipus. The British import, with an adaptation set in contemporary times, made me truly understand the catharsis that ancient Greek audiences would have felt upon seeing this play. Connecticut: Six productions stood out to me—I would happily see any of them again.

Noon Year’s Eve Party: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd. Features a "Noon Year’s Party" with crafts, snacks, and a bubble dance, all leading up to the balloon drop at noon. Free and open to all. No registration. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Best of Boston Comedy Festival: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old A Magical Noon Year’s Eve: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Essex Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit Library, 33 West Ave. Features a family celebration with a thekate.org. New Year’s craft, themed games, and a photo booth. The event concludes with a sparkling cider toast at noon. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call WEDNESDAY, DEC. 31 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Red Cross Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Essex Town Hall, 29 West Ave. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED Noon Year's Eve Storytime: 11:30 a.m. James BlacksCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org. tone Memorial Library auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. For children ages 5 and below. Drop-ins welcome. New Year’s Eve Storytime: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Memorial Library, 150 Main St. Features stories, music, and moveLibrary. For info, visit events.blackstonelibrary.org. ment celebrating New Year’s Eve. No registration necessary. For info, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Primary Trust won the Pulitzer Prize, and the TheaterWorks production showed you why. In 2026, at least one other theater will be producing this play; it will be tough to exceed the Hartford production. Jeffrey Archer’s adaptation of Rope, the “how-do-they-get-caught” thriller, based on the original play and the Hitchcock film, was elegant, stylish, and absorbing, even if you were familiar with the plot. The acting, set, lighting, and direction by Hartford Stage Artistic Director Melia Bensussen were terrific. Connecticut playwright Jacques Lamarre’s The Baroness—a look at The Sound of Music from the point of view of the scorned fiancée—was great fun. It may need work, but it was still a delightful evening at Playhouse on Park. Westport Country Playhouse’s production of Theatre People was an old-fashioned drawing room comedy/farce, well directed and performed. Connecticut was lucky enough to be the first stop on the tour of Mark Twain Tonight! starring Richard Thomas. The space at TheaterWorks was perfect for the piece; Thomas, as usual, was terrific. I can’t omit Hartford Stage’s A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas, which gets better every year. Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident. To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women and the American Theatre Critics Association.

THURSDAY, JAN. 1 Annual Frosty 5K Road Race: Race day check-in and bib collection from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Features a 5K race, a kids fun run, and a 2M walk. All events begin at the Guilford Green. Kids fun run starts 10:30 a.m.; 5K race and 2M walk start 11 a.m. Post-race celebration at 11:45 a.m. Cost: 5K run and 2M walk, $35; kids fun run, $10 through race day. Proceeds benefit local community programs. Hosted by the Guilford Rotary Club. For info or tickets, visit guilfordrotaryclubct.com or runsignup.com/Race/CT/Guilford/GuilfordFrosty5K. Sixth Annual New Day Hike: 11 a.m. Chatfield Hollow State Park, meet at the toll booth. Hosted by the Friends of Chatfield Hollow State Park. Features a pine-cone birdfeeder activity for children at the Oak Lodge Museum led by naturalist Wray Williams. For info, call Cheryl Buckley at 860-391-1919. See page 26

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • LIVING

Continued from page 25

SUNDAY, JAN. 4

First Friday Stroll: 5 to 8 p.m. Main Street, Chester. Hosted by the merchants of Chester. Features a stroll on Main Street that showcases new art exhibitions at galleries, seasonal menus at restaurants, and shopping specials. Includes anecdotal tales behind the paintings at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St. For info, visit nilssonstudio.com.

Weiss-Kaplan-Stumpf Trio Concert: 2 to 3:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a performance of violin, cello, and piano. Free. Hosted by the Musical Arts Society of Branford. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

First Night: Bonfire Night 2026: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Branford Town Green. Features entertainment, ice carvings, wood carvings, s’mores, and a bonfire. In celebration of the New Year and America's 250th milestone anniversary. Free and open to the public. Sponsored by the Branford Parks, Recreation, and Senior Services Department. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.

FRIDAY, JAN. 2

Winter Lecture Series: The Powder Alarm of 1774: 3:30 p.m. Hamilton Hall, Essex Meadows, 30 Bokum Rd. First in the Essex Historical Society’s Winter Lecture Series, highlighting the American Revolution. Features a talk by J. L. Bell, author of The Road to Concord: How Four Stolen Cannon Ignited the Revolutionary War. Doors open at 3 p.m. Seating is first-come, first-served. Registration is requested for non-Essex Meadows residents. For info, visit essexhistory.org/events.

MONDAY, JAN. 5

Prehistoric Games with Janet Lawler: 10:30 to Auditions for Con Brio Choral Society: 5 to 6:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. For ages 3 to 7. For info or to register (required), call 860-526- Grace Episcopal Church, 336 Main St., Old Saybrook. Open to auditionees for all voice parts. Con Brio 6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.accountsupport.com. rehearses on Tuesdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. To book a time Friday Movie Matinee: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memo- slot, call Larry Hamre 860-575-1533. For info, visit conbrio.org/audition. rial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features an afternoon film screening. Popcorn and soda provided. Registration preferred. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events. Cupcake Celebration: 2:15 to 4 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, Community Room, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Children will frost and decorate cupcakes to mark the arrival of 2026. For ages 4 and older. Drop-ins welcome. No registration required. For info, call 860-399-6422. Tween Time: Intro to Dungeons & Dragons: 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features an introductory session on the basics of Dungeons & Dragons for ages 8 to 12. Includes character creation and gameplay concepts. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 3 Magic Wand Workshop: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a craft program for children ages 6 to 12 led by polymer clay artist Deb Jaffe. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Curator Tour: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Presented by Jessica Durdock Moreno, director of artistic planning at Long Wharf Theatre. The tour highlights the new exhibition, Invitation to Engage: 60 Years of Long Wharf Theatre & Beyond. Other tours are scheduled through Saturday, Feb. 7. For info, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 6 Hammonasset Beach Walk: 1 p.m. Meet at the Gateway Eastern trail head parking lot adjacent to the entrance of the Hammonasset State Park, 1280 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a one-mile walk with members of Shoreline Village CT (SVCT) through Hammonasset Beach Park to Webster Point. For info or to register, contact 203-747-5939 or info@ShorelineVillageCT.org. For info, visit ShorelineVillageCT.org. Qìgōng for the Aging: 2 to 3 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features a program that emphasizes stretching, strength, stability, and stamina. Presented by martial arts instructor Stephen Watson. All levels welcome. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

SECWAC Book Group: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Book: When the Clock Broke by John Ganz. Co-hosted by the Southeast Connecticut World Affairs Council (SECWAC) and the Essex Library. For info or to register, visit youressexlibrary.org/adult-services/book-groups. Creative Craft Night: 6 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Offers drop-in crafting time with access to library supplies and equipment. Staff available for assistance. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7 Candidly Chris: Composing the Photograph: 6 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Photographer Peter Glass presents a program on photographic composition techniques. Registration required. For info or to register, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events. Tabletop RPG Game Night: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Adult Movie Night: 6 to 8 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Bring snacks and a beverage (covered, nonalcoholic). For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 8 Peace Crane Folding: 1 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features an inaugural event that continues every Thursday to fold and complete 1,000 origami peace cranes. The purpose is to bring people together and find inner peace while folding the cranes. Once 1,000 cranes are reached, they will be donated to a charity of the group's choosing. No experience needed. Directions and materials provided. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Whales, Whaling, and Whalemen: A History of 19thCentury Whaling: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by Mystic Seaport Museum. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

YA Library Advisory Board Planning Meeting: 3:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Participants ages 12 to 18 are invited to help plan games, displays, programs, and collections. Service credit available for active participation. Free and National Theatre Live in HD Encore: The Fifth Step: open to all. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395- 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 100 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860Tinker and Take it Apart: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth 510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Library, 301 Rte. 81. For ages 5 to 11. Bring safety goggles. Space and supplies are limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthliTo submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email brary.org. 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.

LIVING • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

It’s Better than Ever: Hartford Stage’s A Christmas Carol Will Delight You. Thank You, Michael Wilson

Review THEATER

By Karen Isaacs Columnist

There’s a new Scrooge in town. Guiesseppe Jones has taken over the role of the mean-spirited Scrooge in Hartford Stage’s spectral adaptation of A Christmas Carol, which they subtitle A Ghost Story of Christmas. Once again, adapter Michael Wilson has returned to Hartford to direct this year’s production. Though I have seen the show at least 20 times, this year was one of the best. The changes Wilson has made added to the ghostly influences of the story, and Jones allows Scrooge to be just as miserable as he should be. In the early scenes, he never conveys that this isn’t his true nature. Too many actors playing Scrooge act the lines, but with a wink, imply, “This isn’t really Scrooge, he’s a good guy underneath it all.” It lessens the impact of his transformation. For 25 years, this has become a Connecticut tradition, selling out to appreciative audiences. (Two years during COVID, the show did not perform.) It has become an annual event for many families. Wilson, who brought his adap-

The Fezziwigs played by Kenneth DeAbrew and Natalie Brown Photo by T Charles Erickson

Photo by T Charles Erickson

Rebecka Jones as the Ghost of Christmas Past

tation to Hartford when he was artistic director of Hartford Stage, doesn’t go for the obvious; there’s humor, but this Scrooge is not funny. Instead, he emphasizes the eerie nature, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t laughs in the production; the humor is from other characters or totally appro-

priate for the moment. A side note: This Christmas Carol will not be appropriate for young children. I took my granddaughters to the show when they were 6 or 7, but some children that young may find the production overly scary. Each year, a few cast members

return to the annual show. Noble Shropshire has played Marley, and Rebecka Jones has played the Ghost of Christmas Past in each production. Besides Guiesseppe Jones, the new cast members are Emily Bosco as a warm, motherly Mrs. Cratchit; Daniel Madigan as Mr. Marvel;

and Stuart Rider as the Spirit of Christmas Present. Two cast members—Madigan and Erik Bloomquist (Fred/Scrooge at 30)—performed in the show as children. The show again includes students from The Hartt School at the University of Hartford as well as a large, rotating cast of local children. My memories of past productions may be mistaken. Still, in this production, Wilson seems to include the ghosts more, feature more choreography (originally by Hope Clarke, reproduced by Derric Harris), and add additional scary lighting effects by Robert Wierzel. Again, Marley rises from the grave and, at one point, lands in the rafters created by ZFX,Inc. One constant in this production is Nobel Shropshire as Marley (and another role I won’t mention). Year after year, his performance is a marvel. Hartford Stage also has school/student matinees that allow over 5,000 area students to experience live theater. Please go and see this wonderful show; it runs through Sunday, Dec. 28. Tickets are available at HartfordStage.org. I look forward to many more years of seeing this annual play; I can’t wait until my great-grandchildren are old enough to be introduced to this inventive and ultimate theatrical production. Thank you, Michael Wilson.

Giuesseppe Jones as Scrooge Photo by T Charles Erickson

Beyoncé

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • LIVING

Horoscopes

For the week of December 25 - December 31 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Strange things are happening, Aries. It may be better to go with the flow right now. You might like the change that ensues, and the change in pace could be a positive.

When one door closes, another door opens, Libra. Look at all of the positive things in your life and embrace the great changes that are coming your way. This is an exciting time for you.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Better days are ahead, Taurus. It’s just a matter of having a little patience and waiting a little longer for things to settle down. Start a new project to take your mind off things.

Scorpio, there are so many things going on right now but you can still function effectively. The pace might be hectic right now, but things will calm down soon enough.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Make the most of time spent with friends and family this week, Gemini. You may need to step away for a little while, so cherish this time you get to spend with those you love.

A relationship is blooming, Sagittarius, and you’re not sure how you feel about it just yet. Take a few more weeks to work through all of your feelings..

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, someone special is able to take a peek into your inner thoughts this week. Their ability to see you so personally could reinforce your outlook. LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23 You might feel a bit melancholic as the holiday season nears its end, Leo. It’s understandable based on how much has been going on. Maintain a strong social calendar. VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, generosity is an admirable trait, and now is a good time to indulge your love of helping others. Make a concerted effort to pitch in where your assistance is necessary.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20 You have an eye for deals, Capricorn. Even though you have been spending a lot this past month, you can’t resist a discount on some post-holiday sales. AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18 Take a firm hold of your finances for the next few weeks, Aquarius. Overspending could complicate an important relationship if you’re not careful. Curb any purchases for a few days.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Light cavalry You are not sure how to harness your artistic 5. Coconut palms energy this week, Pisces. You might take a class or 10. Rounded knob engage in a hobby that interests you. Redesigning 14. Central Japan city a room in a home also might be an idea. 15. Sandwiches 16. Shape produced by a curve 17. Ancient region in modern-day Syria 18. French modernist painter 19. Grandmother DECEMBER 29 20. Mammary gland of cattle 22. Rocky peak Jude Law, Actor (53) 23. Secret plan DECEMBER 30 24. Songs to one’s lover Kristin Kreuk, Actress (43) 27. More (Spanish) 30. Father DECEMBER 31 31. Chinese principle underlying the universe Evie Templeton, Actress (17) 32. Ballplayer’s accessory 35. Together 37. A person’s brother or sister 38. Evil spirit 39. Monetary units 40. Partner to cheese 41. About Sun 42. Group of like-minded people 43. After B 44. Seaside room 45. Recipe measurement 46. Partly digested food 47. Flat-faced dog 48. People of southern Africa 49. Salts 52. Beard lichens 55. Sanders is one 56. Fencing sword 60. Ethnic group of Albania 61. Metric weight unit 63. Italian seaport 64. Longtime late night host 65. Extremely angry 66. Miami mascot 67. Mid-month day 68. Marked for omission 69. Body part PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

Crossword solution for December 18, 2025

DECEMBER 25 Annie Lennox, Singer (71) DECEMBER 26 Jared Leto, Actor (54) DECEMBER 27 Timothée Chalamet, Actor (30) DECEMBER 28 John Legend, Singer (47)

Crossword

CLUES DOWN 1. Two-toed sloth 2. Fat from a pig’s abdomen 3. Romanian city 4. Specifies 5. Rounded, glaciated valley 6. Spoke 7. Collection of sacred books 8. Extravagantly theatrical 9. Very fast airplane 10. Forearm bones 11. Ancient kingdom 12. Legitimate: __ fide 13. Semitransparent gemstone 21. Counsels 23. Head honcho 25. Cool! 26. Touch lightly 27. Extract money via taxation 28. Dyes 29. Cloying sweetness 32. Sodas 33. Coastal village in Guam 34. Chemical ring 36. The bill in a restaurant 37. Car mechanics group 38. One-time presidential candidate Dole 40. Health care for the aged 41. Wise persons 43. Passage with access at one end 44. Make a wound 46. America’s spies 47. Roof of the mouth 49. Plants of the lily family 50. Pinkish-red color 51. Vaccine developer 52. Mottled citrus fruit 53. A place to store garden tools 54. Rare goose native to Hawaii 57. Popular Hollywood pig 58. Musician Clapton 59. A move exposing one to danger 61. Historic Spanish soldier 62. CNN’s founder

Word Search

LIVING • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

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

COLD & FLU WORD SEARCH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for December 18, 2025: CREDIT

ACHES ANTIBIOTICS CHILLS CONGESTION CONTAGIOUS COUGH FATIGUE FEVER GERMS HEADACHE HYDRATION IMMUNITY INFECTION MEDICINE MUCUS PREVENTION REST RUNNY SNEEZE STUFFY THROAT TISSUES VACCINE VIRUS Word Search solution for December 18, 2025

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Transactions 3 Circle Dr: Jeffrey S. Tanner of Clinton to Juan I. Guzman, $230,000 on 12/04/2025

BRANFORD Mela n ie S c u l l

323.314.0888 | mscull@wpsir.com

Your Vision, My Mission.

242 E Main St Unit 6A: Singh T and Amandeep Singh of Clinton to Bcek Management LLC, $600,000 on 12/01/2025

NANTUCKET ELEGANCE IN THE HEART OF MADISON

66 High St Unit 36: Johnson Option 66 LLC of Guilford to Terrence Yanni, $1,675,000 on 12/01/2025

ESSEX

AGENT IN CONNECTICUT since 2019!!

TOP Producer company wide, WRRE

201 Mulberry Point Rd: Kunesh T and Robert F. Kunesh of Guilford to Anna Wolek and Austin J. Poucher, $760,000 on 12/02/2025

CALL OR EMAIL ROSE FOR REAL RESULTS!

Each office independently owned and operated.

3 Ashman Ct: Cynthia A. Connor of Branford to Kristine S. and Sarah L. Flecke, $635,000 on 12/02/2025 18 Court St: Janice M. Schuler and Thomas W. Prentice of Branford to Michael C. Murphy, $340,000 on 12/01/2025 21 Featherbed Ln: Kathleen T. Moniello and Scott Cretella of Branford to Jennifer Mcculloch and Daniel E. Heenan, $749,000 on 12/03/2025 5 Maltby St: Brendan and Claudia M. Oconnell of Branford to Jacqueline A. Gowe, $750,000 on 12/03/2025 9 Mirage Dr: Eleanor Iannuzzi of Branford to Charles A. Opsahl and Jessica S. Coviello, $1,040,000 on 12/03/2025 93 Montoya Dr Unit 93: Jeannine Butler of Branford to Play Action Prop LLC, $178,000 on 12/04/2025

14 Nutmeg Dr: Yu Q. Zhang of Clinton to Jiu W. Pan and Jin Y. Zeng, $370,000 on 12/02/2025

EAST HAVEN 48 Bishop St: Cox Joan M Est and Patricia A. Cox of East Haven to Manika LLC, $340,000 on 12/05/2025 52 Brown Rd: Karen E. Tucker of East Haven to Brian Prinz, $425,000 on 12/01/2025 7 Brown Rd: Karen E. Tucker of East Haven to Brian Prinz, $425,000 on 12/01/2025 385 Coe Ave Unit 1: Agatha Diana of East Haven to Cynthia L. Bergman, $280,000 on 12/03/2025 12 Glenmoor Dr: Ivan Aponte of East Haven to David M. Melillo and Anita Porto, $405,000 on 12/01/2025 13 Rabbit Rock Rd: Sean M. Howard of East Haven to Dylan P. Maturo, $450,000 on 12/05/2025

CHESTER

173 Russo Ave Unit 610: Ryan M. and Kacey Durbin of East Haven to Mary Daniels-Manning, $180,000 on 13 Cross Rd: Andrew J. Hinckley of Chester to Kenneth E. Just, $610,000 on 12/03/2025 12/02/2025 560 Silver Sands Rd Unit 2502: Colleen A. Bertrand of East Haven to Cynthia Puccino, $360,000 on CLINTON 12/03/2025 B O B A L L IS O N A local expert elevating your home buying and selling experience. REACH OUT ANYTIME

860.227.0078 | ballison@wpsir.com

MADISON BROKERAGE Each office independently owned

47 Brickyard Rd: Ardent Ventures LLC of Clinton to Danielle Thompson, $440,000 on 12/01/2025

140 Thompson St Unit 5B: Mary S. King of East Haven to Julian Leite, $284,900 on 12/01/2025

203.314.6269 • Rose.Ciardiello@raveis.com

MADISON 7 Earl St: Linda C. Wilkinson and Mary C. Donlan of Essex to Jon A. Manafort, $185,000 on 12/02/2025 7 Fordham Rd: Selina F Black RET and Linda B. Lindsey of Essex to Michael K. Bowers, $475,000 on 12/05/2025 126 Main St: Justin M. and John Hardy of Essex to Richard M. Guidotti and Herbert E. Thelosen, $850,000 on 12/03/2025

31 GOVERNORS WAY | $1,319,000 This beautifully crafted home was custom built in 2006 with every detail in mind and a style reminiscent of those you would find on the Cape & Islands. You’ll find the highest quality of design and installation throughout this unique property. The grounds are stunning with professional landscaping in and around the elegant pool area. The chef’s kitchen is well appointed with Carrera marble countertops, Dacor 6 burner gas cook top, Viking double wall ovens, Subzero fridge and a custom painted wet bar. Five well sized bedrooms, including an exceptional 1st floor master suite, double family rooms, five bathrooms, double laundry rooms, two fireplaces, exceptional millwork and refinished Brazilian cherry floors are just some of the additional highlights to this stand alone property. 31 Governors Way has an ageless functionality and style. Quite simply, it’s in a class of its own. Agent related.

PHOEBE SCHREINER Choose Expertise 617.645.3907

pschreiner@williampitt.com

Y O U I N V E S T I N R E A L E S TAT E . I I N V E S T I N Y O U . LET’S WORK TOGETHER.

Phoebe Schreiner 617.645.3907 | pschreiner@williampitt.com

129 Acorn Rd: Betsy Bryan of Madison to Bradley O. and Laura K. Simonsen, $725,000 on 12/04/2025 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

12 Nutmeg Ln: Scott Magruder of Essex to Hilary Simon, $529,900 on 12/03/2025

148 Country Way: Anthony L. and Diane M. Colozzi of Madison to Jack Belmont and Haleigh Cronin, $1,077,000 on 12/05/2025

GUILFORD

17 Eagle Meadow Rd: Halliwell Herta M Est and Alfred Halliwell of Madison to Eduardo F. Juca, $326,000 on 12/04/2025

NANTUCKET ELEGANCE IN THE HEART OF MADISON

LET’S CONNECT! 31 GOVERNORS WAY | $1,319,000 This beautifully crafted home was custom built in 2006 with every detail in mind and a style reminiscent of those you would find on the Cape & Islands. You’ll find the highest quality of design and installation throughout this unique property. The grounds are stunning with professional landscaping in and around the elegant pool area. The chef’s kitchen is well appointed with Carrera marble countertops, Dacor 6 burner gas cook top, Viking double wall ovens, Subzero fridge and a custom painted wet bar. Five well sized bedrooms, including an exceptional 1st floor master suite, double family rooms, five bathrooms, double laundry rooms, two fireplaces, exceptional millwork and refinished Brazilian cherry floors are just some of the additional highlights to this stand alone property. 31 Governors Way has an ageless functionality and style. Quite simply, it’s in a class of its own. Agent related.

Janet Peckinpaugh, Realtor® 696 Boston Post Road Madison, CT 06443 c. 860.985.3659 jpeckinpaugh@wpsir.com janetpeckinpaugh.com

Y O U I N V E S T I N R E A L E S TAT E . I I N V E S T I N Y O U . LET’S WORK TOGETHER.

Phoebe Schreiner 617.645.3907 | pschreiner@williampitt.com

35 Bayberry Ln: C&r Property Svcs LLC of Guilford to Benjamin Y. Lu and Mina Kojima, $1,025,000 on 12/04/2025 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

194 Chaffinch Island Rd: Mary G. Barnes of Guilford to Gary Markowski and Melinda Papowitz, $1,330,000 on 12/03/2025

37 Pine Dr: Elizabeth L Hackbarth Ft and William C. Hackbarth of Madison to Adam and Emma Durand, $730,000 on 12/03/2025

NORTH BRANFORD Your Trusted Local Real Estate Agent LET’S GET MOVING!

CA R O L M A N C I N I 203.710.6405 | cmancini@wpsir.com

Guilford Brokerage | Each office is independently owned and operated

274 Church St Unit 1A: Julia Mcdermott of Guilford to Elizabeth C. and George J. Houlihan, $297,000 on 12/04/2025

229 Branford Rd Unit 430: Bryan W. Lafrance of North Branford to Melonie Rohde, $260,000 on 12/04/2025

315 Durham Rd: Jeffrey D. Heinzman of Guilford to Joseph Tiden and Marjorie D. Escala, $530,000 on 12/02/2025 See page 31

REAL ESTATE • THE SOURCE • DECEMBER 25, 2025

Real Estate Transactions

FENWOOD BEACH ASSOCIATION! 33 Fenwood Road, Old Saybrook

55 Cypress Rd: Mary J. Sullivan of Old Saybrook to Paul and Bonnie Tymniak, $893,500 on 12/05/2025

OLD SAYBROOK Building Relationships with Buyers and Sellers For Over 25 years SUE WOODS

$799,000

367 Main St Unit 31: Forbes Ft and Bette G. Forbes of Old Saybrook to Marlene Dolan, $705,000 on 12/05/2025

This beautifully renovated home is ready for you to move right into. The light-filled interior offers an open flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, perfect for relaxed coastal living. The primary suite features a gorgeous new full bath, while the finished lower level adds 700 sq ft of flexible space currently used as a family room and third bedroom.

203.215.8676 | swoods@wpsir.com

WESTBROOK 1 Clark Ave: Anthony J. and Juliann Bacewicz of Old Saybrook to Lee and Kelly A. Hartshorn, $875,000 on 12/03/2025

Diana Hartman

Broker, Realtor, ABR, CIPS

dianahartman@wpsir.com 917.509.4700

#1 Coldwell Banker Agent in Middlesex County With nearly $300 million in sales volume and helping almost 1000 happy buyers and sellers over 20 years on the shoreline, Joel’s experience is invaluable. Let him help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact Joel Lucas Today!

‘Love Where You Live’

18 Cottage Pl: Lee and Kelly Hartshorn of Old Saybrook to Steven and Jordan Farrelly, $995,000 on 12/03/2025 21 Cottage Pl: William A. Peterson of Old Saybrook to Daniel L. and Patricia M. Carey, $650,000 on 12/04/2025

257 Pond Meadow Rd: Epic Re Group LLC of Westbrook to Christina Brangi, $490,000 on 12/04/2025

JOEL LUCAS, REALTOR®

Serving the CT Shoreline from Branford to Stonington for over 20 years

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

860.304.9150 bankerbuddy@hotmail.com COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM

860-304-9150

Madison Office 752 Boston Post Road | Madison, CT 06443

Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Happy New Year! As we welcome 2026, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our amazing clients and community for your trust and support. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply explore your options, I’m here to help make this year your most successful yet. R E C E N T LY L D Lbeginnings ISTINGS Here’s toS Onew and achieving your real estate dreams in 2026!

SHEILA TINN-MURPHY CRS

Chairman’s Circle Diamond • Top 1/2 of 1% Nationally RealTrends America’s Best Top 1/2 of 1% Nationally of 1.4 Million Realtors Connecticut Magazine, Five Star Realtor 2009-2026 Licensed in the State of CT

Contact ContactSheila Sheilatotohelp helpwith withyour yourreal realestate estateneeds! needs! SHEILA TINN-MURPHY

CRS

Chairman’s Circle Platinum,

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS ★★★★★

★★★★★

DECEMBER 25, 2025 • THE SOURCE • REAL ESTATE

Happy Holidays At this time of year, it is fitting to take a pause and say LOGO DESIGN

Thank you

To the many people that made our success possible.

C=100 M=96 Y=41 K=52

Voted #1 for Best Real Estate Team on the Shoreline!

HEX-12143D RGB-18, 20, 61

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TERMINA MEDIUM

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Cathy Lynch 203-627-2331 • Dana Weinstein 203-927-8687 • Kate Jasko 860-304-9034

CathyLynchTeam.com Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.