Valley Courier 01-22-26

January 22, 2026

Chester, Deep River, & Essex

Vol. XXVI Iss. 4

Chester and Deep River Officials Discuss School System Future in Joint Meeting

By Christian Maldonado

Staff Writer

Two of the three towns that send students to the regional high school were in attendance for a special meeting Jan. 14, but Essex wasn’t invited.

Chester First Selectwoman Cindy Lignar called the special Board of Selectman meeting, joined by the Chester Board of Finance, as well as the Deep River Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance. An unorthodox meeting of the officials for both towns, the meeting was called to talk about the recent discus-

sions regarding a potential change to grade configuration and governance of the school systems in Chester, Deep River, and Essex.

Lignar opened the meeting, discussing the infancy of the task forces that have been

See Chester and Deep River page 10

Animating

Their Legos

Michael Fogerty arranges Lego figures during a stop motion animation class at Chester Public Library on Jan. 17. Children's Librarian Emma Burton led the workshop, teaching children to create video animations using iPhones and light boxes. For more information on upcoming library events, visit chesterctlibrary.com.

Lynn Giroux is ready to step up as Essex Bank’s next president..........6

Abby Roccapriore Never Fails to Assist Her Community

By Christian Maldonado

Staff Writer

When it comes to being a positive figure in a community or being a good influence on those who need guidance, many see it as something that they can do in their free time. But Abby Roccapriore has decided to make it her life.

Over the past several years, she has continued to find more ways to help children and families who need assistance, however she can.

Abby currently is the Program Manager for Positive Youth Development at Tri-Town Youth Services in Deep River, assisting kids of many ages with things like reading and extracurricular activity, all while helping them to make good decisions.

“The framework that we have uses positive experiences and empowerment as a way to reduce risky behavior,” she says. “I do a lot of prevention work and have been doing that since I started here. “

Recently, her department has started an “Empathy in Action” initiative across all towns that Tri-Town

covers. Using a grant from the United Way of Middlesex County, she works with children all across the three towns building compassion and stronger connections with the programs.

“Ultimately, we’re trying to get them to gain back a sense of empathy through the stages of their life,” she says. “We set up community projects in the schools to spread awareness of engagement in empathy, and getting them to work on solving problems and learning that empathy is a big part of making mistakes.”

This upcoming summer, Abby will be continuing a program that she did last year, a girls’ enrichment camp for 4th through 6th graders, where they can come in and discuss topics related to being a woman. Typically, she

brings in female guest speakers who come in and discuss with them either their career, their hobby, or their talent, as a way to show the girls the different things that they can do when they grow up, and allow them to explore possible careers or hobbies.

“It really is for them to be able to talk about the topics they want to discuss, and the issues that they may have as a young woman,” Abby says. “This year we really want to highlight women for our enrichment program, while helping them with relationships with their peers, as well as their relationship with themselves.”

For this year, she has been able to raise $300 for the upcoming campto provide students with appropriate supplies.

While Abby is dedicated to the many jobs and services that she provides at Tri-Town Youth Services, it is not the only way that she chooses to get involved in her community. For six years, she has been an instructor at the Shell and Bee Studio in Deep River. The studio emphasizes art,

See Abby page 10

Essex, Chester, & Deep River’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 2001 Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2026 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Letters Editor to the

Cemetery Stones Shine Again

To all Chester residents and visitors alike, I hope you have taken notice of the cemetery stones at both the Old Burying Ground Cemetery on Goose Hill Road and the Cedar Lake Cemetery on Cedar Lake Road. If you have not, please do.

Members of the Chester Cemetery Association, including Christine Nelson, Adrian Nichols, and volunteers Cheri

Improve Walkability in Centerbrook

Essex has always prided itself on being a very walkable community.

(”Essex Events” (2024 -Q2) I think it’s time to improve walking & biking safety in Centerbrook (a part of Essex). Two areas of concern:

1.) Westbrook Road (between Spencer’s Corner & Bokum Road): Widen shoulders, install sidewalk, install a crosswalk system that connects to the sidewalk.

2.) Dennison Road Railroad Bridge: Redesign that area to widen bridge & bridge approach (Centerbrook side) & improve sight-line.

I believe the “need” is thereIncreased traffic (cars & “e” modes) make walking & cycling more dangerous than ever. Does the State have a standard analytical test for establishing true “need” for a sidewalk when any type of taxpayer money (General Fund, Grant, etc.) is to be used? (Total width of road, shoulder width on both sides, traffic count (including volume at peak commuting times), curves, line-of-sight, etc.

On Westbrook Road: Pedestrians & cyclists are forced to use a very narrow or non-existent shoulder, often requiring

Scholarships for Connecticut Women

Ferrari and Debbie Pecoraro have spent numerous hours this past year scrubbing and cleaning the moss and green film off the stones. You can actually read them and they actually shine. Thank you, all of you, for working so hard to keeping the memories of our loved ones alive.

Debra Germini Calamari Chester

vehicles to stop to allow for safe passage. If installing a sidewalk is too much of an “engineering challenge”, why can’t DOT at least widen all the shoulders?

On Dennison Road Railroad Bridge: How old is the bridge? What does the latest DOT Inspection Report say? All the Weight Limit signs? Who cares? I see many heavily loaded trucks using the road, including long, wide, very heavy tree/brush cutting rigs (Eversource contractors). What’s the alternative - Grove Street.? I believe a newly designed bridge would be safer for all vehicles & would finally give pedestrians & cyclists “their space.” If a new vehicle bridge “isn’t possible,” why not install a pedestrian/bike bridge over the RR tracks (similar to the new pedestrian bridge over Falls River on River Road)?

Let’s make Westbrook Road and Dennison Road more walkable — focus on the “need” for improvement without getting bogged down with extraneous issues like property values, political influence, etc.

Martha Moody Essex

The Connecticut Federation of Women’s Clubs announces two scholarships for Connecticut women pursuing advanced courses of study at institutions of higher learning. Awards are granted on the basis of future promise, scholastic ability, and financial need. The Dorothy E. Schoelzel memorial scholarship has a maximum award of $2,000. Candidates must have completed three or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher in the field of education. The Phipps scholarship has a maximum award of $1,000. Candidates must have completed two or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher toward a bachelor’s or post-graduate degree. Completed applications, including general and personal information, a financial statement, instructor/employer references, and an official transcript of at least the most recent two years of undergraduate or graduate work, must be received by Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026. To download an application form, visit northfordnbwomens clubgfwc.org/education. For more information, call Rose Lynch at 203-483-8395.

Obituaries

Obituary Jerry Clark Jr.

Deep River

Jerry Clark Jr., 63, passed away Jan. 4, 2026, at Middlesex Hospital after a long battle with cancer.

Born in El Paso, Texas, on Oct. 8, 1962, Jerry was a lifelong resident of Deep River and a graduate of Valley Regional High School. He had a great interest in all history, especially local history. He spent his life outdoors enjoying all things in nature.

Obituary

Edna Shaw Ivoryton

He spent his working years as a landscaper. He was a member of the Deep River Fire Department for over 23 years.

Jerry is predeceased by his father Jerry Sr. He is survived by his mother Carol Clark; his brother James (Beverly) Clark; nephew Ely Clark; niece Hannah Clark; and two special people in his life, Andrew Pike and Steve Halibozek.

Per Jerry’s request, there will be no services. Donations may be made to the Deep River Fire Department, 57 Union Street, Deep River, CT 06417.

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Edna Lorraine (Cromeenes) Shaw passed away peacefully in her sleep on Jan. 5, 2026. She was married to Eugene Shaw Jr. on Sept. 1, 1951, and moved to Deep River in 1957, where she lived most of her life and spent the last few years as a resident of Ivoryton.

In addition to raising her six sons with Eugene, Edna worked in the accounting department at Cramer Controls in Old Saybrook from 1958 to 1974, Connecticut Valley Arms Catalog Department in Haddam from 1974 to 1984 and then worked at Traditions Inc. in Old Saybrook from 1984 to 2008, when she retired to enjoy her life. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Ivoryton since 1957, where she served as Treasurer for

eight years, a Sunday School teacher and also was a member of the Altar Guild. She was also a Cub Scout Den Mother for years while her boys were growing up.

Edna is survived by her sons, Dennis, and his wife Phyllis of Kansas City, Mo., Stephen, and his wife Dawn of Ivoryton, Kevin, of Colorado Springs, Colo., and William, and his wife Amy of Westbrook. She also leaves her 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. Edna was predeceased by her beloved husband Eugene of 46 years; and her sons, Timothy and Jeffery. A private graveside service will be held by her family at the Fountain Hill Cemetery in Deep River. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Trinity Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 112, Centerbrook, CT 06409. The Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook is in care of the arrangements.

Singing Voices Wanted

The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords, conducted by Samuel Tucker and accompanied by a 10-piece orchestra under the direction of Alan Dougherty, is currently seeking individuals to join its expanding alto, tenor, and bass sections. No auditions or prior experience are required—only a passion for singing and a commitment to the ensemble is necessary. Rehearsals have started at St. Francis Church, Msgr. Fox Parish Hall, 10 Elm Street, Middletown in preparation for the spring concert scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at Portland High School. New members may enroll through Tuesday, Feb. 3. For more information, call 860-342-3120 or visit vocalchords20.org.

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Chester Historical Society to Pay Tribute to Town History in 2026

By Christian Maldonado

Staff Writer

The Chester Historical Society has big plans on the agenda to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, better known as the Semiquincentennial.

With many different events and programs being worked on in preparation for the 2026 celebration, President Cary Hull says that the society has plans to

acknowledge the history associated with Chester and the American Revolution.

“We have two lectures planned, one for February and one for April,” Hull said.

“These will be lectures that acknowledge the history that Chester has with the founding of our country, and will be about those who are from here and carried forth

See Chester page 7

Giroux to Step Up as Essex Bank President

From a Press Release

The Board of Directors of Essex Bank announced last week that Lynn Giroux, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Essex Bank, will be assuming the role of President and CEO in August 2026, upon the retirement of current President and CEO Diane Arnold.

Arnold will have served in this role for five years, overseeing steady growth in deposits and loans, improving technology, developing leadership and rebranding the former Essex Savings Bank in time for its 175th anniversary celebration. In addition to inheriting Arnold’s role, Giroux will also serve on the Board of Essex Bank, and on the Board of Essex Financial Services, Inc.

Douglas Paul, Chairman of the Essex Bank Board of Directors, stated, “Diane Arnold has been a very accomplished and exemplary leader, and our Board engaged in extensive discussions to select her successor. Ms. Giroux is an outstanding choice with the broad experience, foresight and leadership skills necessary to continue to propel Essex Bank forward as a leading community bank.”

Giroux began her banking career in 1983 gaining experience in a variety of avenues comprising branch, lending, and operations. She joined Essex Bank in 1999 as the VP of Human Resources and Branch Administration, growing to her current position that also includes oversight of Deposit Operations, Loan Administration, IT, Compliance, Marketing and facilities. Over the past 26 years, she was instrumental in leading and developing the customer-facing and customer-support technology at the Bank, expanding the Bank’s geographic footprint by opening de novo branches in Madison and Chester, fostering the Bank’s talent pipeline, instituting cash management products for the growing commercial portfolio and fostering outreach.

Giroux earned her BA in English at the

Food Drive at Essex Library

University of Vermont and is a graduate of the New England School of Banking, a 2014 recipient of The Commercial Record’s Women of FIRE award and has shared her expertise on numerous banking panels throughout the years. She has been an active volunteer in both the shoreline and banking community for decades.

“I am deeply honored to accept the role of President and CEO of Essex Bank upon Diane Arnold’s retirement,” said Giroux in a statement. “As a longtime advocate of community banking, I believe in the power of local institutions making a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors and the vitality of our region.” Ms. Arnold stated: “I am thrilled to have Lynn Giroux serve as the next President and CEO of Essex Bank.”

The Essex Library Association is hosting a food drive to benefit the Region 4 Backpack Program through Jan. 30. A wagon for nonperishable donated food items is set up across from the Essex Library’s circulation desk. The Backpack Program provides students identified by school social workers at Essex Elementary, John Winthrop Middle School, and Valley Regional High School with nutritious food when other resources are not available, such as on weekends or during school vacations. The food is delivered weekly to students and includes breakfasts, lunches, dinners, beverages and snacks. For more information, visit youressexlibrary.org.

Chester Historical Society to Pay Tribute to Town History in 2026

Continued from page 6

the ideals that were a part of the Revolution.”

According to the society, 32 residents of the town of Chester were a part of the American Revolution. Hull says that she and the members of the society are thankful and want to acknowledge their courage.

On Feb. 1 at 2 p.m., society member Don Perreault will be speaking to the audience at Masonicare in Chester Village about Chester’s legacy in the Revolutionary War, as well as the residents of the town who not only fought for the country’s independence, but for those who later fought for equality as well.

In March, the Chester Historical Society will be partnering with the Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, a synagogue in town, to present an exhibit that will pay homage to Feinsteins, a popular clothing shop in Chester during the 1920s and 1930s. The exhibit will feature many of the paintings of Malcolm Feinstein during the time, as well as odes to the historic store.

“At the time, it really was the place to

go,” Hull said. “We like that we get to work together with an organization like Congregation Beth Shalom to pay tribute to the history of Chester.”

On April 12 at 4 p.m. at Chester Meeting House, another Chester Historical Society member will be giving a lecture as Marta Daniels will be speaking about Edward C. Hungerford, a First Selectman in Chester in the 1870s, who was also a leader of Chester’s Congregational Church, and helped to harbor runaway slaves. He later developed his own school for black children, and educated thousands of people throughout the mid 20th century. His impact is still felt here in Chester, as he also developed the first bank in the town.

The society is hard at work with other events later on in the year, with plans for new exhibits, and plenty of events that will help residents of Chester get more in tune with the history of their town. For more information on the events as well as ideas on how you can volunteer and be a part of the historical society, visit chester historicalsociety.org.

Notice of Decision

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at the Wetlands Agent took the following actions:

IWWC #25-19 144 Saybrook Road, Essex, addition to and conversion of existing garage to an accessory dwelling unit and installation of a septic system within 100 feet of a wetlands. Applicant/Owner: Paul and Corinne Fabian

IWWC CONCURRED WITH THE AGENT’S APPROVAL

Respectfully Submitted, Carey Duques, Wetlands Enforcement Officer and Land Use Official

TOWN OF DEEP RIVER LEGAL NOTICE

A certified list of 19 Republican party-endorsed candidates for the Town of Deep River for election as members of the Town Committee At-Large is on file in my office at 174 Main Street, Deep River, Connecticut, and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee members to be elected, under party rules, is 30.

A primary will be held March 3, 2026, if 8 candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of Town Committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with Sec. 9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, not later than 4 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates, exceeds the number of Town Committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held.) Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies, may be obtained from Claudia H. Hardy, Republican Registrar of Voters, 174 Main Street, Deep River, Connecticut 06417.

Amy M. Winchell, MCTC Municipal Clerk Town of Deep River

Q: Dear Linda- I have heard that Sprigs & Twigs has an Organic Lawn Care Program and I’d like to know more about it. My husband puts down bags of stuff on our lawn and I’m worried he’s doing something harmful. Thank you, - Kathy

A: Hello Kathy, you ask an extremely important question. This is Part 2 of my answer.

Sprigs & Twigs offers the only true, 100% Organic Lawn Care Program in the area; we would be happy to visit with you and explain it in more detail. While it is fashionable for other companies to claim they do “organic” lawn care, they almost always include synthetic chemicals (which I will talk about in future articles).

The initial step in the Sprigs & Twigs Organic Lawn Care program is to determine the health of your soil by performing comprehensive soil testing (which we do each year). Some soils are so damaged by prior chemical lawn care programs that improvement in soil health can take some time. Once we evaluate the soil test, a custom organic lawn care program is developed for your lawn that combines steps for overall needed improvement in the soil as well as six regular applications of the true organic liquid and solid fertilizers throughout the season. During the season, we ask you to practice good turf management procedures:

1) Cut your grass between 3 ½”- 4” which strengthens the grass and crowds out weeds. Cut with sharp mower blades to make clean cuts and minimize disease.

2) Mulch your grass clippings into your lawn. This provides additional fertilizer and organic matter for the soil.

In the fall we core-aerate your lawn to relieve soil compaction and allow oxygen to get to the root zone of the grass plants. Compaction, if not addressed, hinders grass from growing and encourages weeds. We also slice-seed your lawn each fall to help strengthen the turf and replace the grass plants that naturally die each year. Slice-seed your lawn in the fall begins effective weed control for the following season. Strong healthy lawns crowd out weeds without applying chemical weed-killers.

CONTINUED NEXT WEEK…

The Sprigs & Twigs Organic Lawn Care Program has been administered to hundreds of lawns for over 15 years with great success. Sprigs & Twigs is especially proud that many our staff are Accredited Organic Land Care professionals (AOLCPs) who have passed the rigorous NOFA training program.

If you need assistance or have any questions about organic lawn care, please contact us at 860-235-0752 or through our web site: www. Sprigs&Twigs.net.

In future articles, I will address other aspects of why organic lawn care is the only way to go.

Dated at Deep River, Connecticut, this 14th day of January, 2026

Lt. Governer

Susan

Ivoryton Playhouse Project Breaks Ground Ahead of Feb. 10 Public Hearing

Staff Writer By Christian Maldonado

The Ivoryton Playhouse Foundation officially broke ground Jan. 15 for its new Sally and George Mayer Rehearsal Studio, with Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, state Sen. and Essex First Selectman Norm Needleman, and state Rep. Renee Lamark Muir in attendance.

The ceremonial event comes after the Ivoryton Playhouse Foundation met their $1.5 million Capital Campaign goal. For years, the playhouse has had to use public space for things like auditions and rehearsals. With this new project, it would be able to have dedicated space in-house.

Building Project Manager Ben Hope said that the new space is going to be a great addition not only to the Ivoryton Playhouse and the performers, but also to the residents and visitors of the town.

“There really has not been any major construction on Main Street in such a long time,” he said. “We are beyond excited and grateful for the enthusiasm and contribution of the state and town officials in attendance.”

Days before the ceremonial event, Essex Town Engineer Bob Doane met with members of The Essex Inland Wetland and Watercourses Commission on behalf of the Ivoryton Playhouse Foundation, discussing the proposed 50- by 80-foot rehearsal space. He mentioned that in addition to the proposed facility, there would be a new gravel parking lot built, as well as installation of a septic system within 100 feet of wetlands, filling approximately 200 square feet of wetlands, according to initial plans.

““We are also planning gravel parking wrapping around the north side and south side of the proposed building,” Tom said. “We have a 20-foot gravel lane going around the building to support the 14-footwide supports for ladders and trucks going through.”

Doane also said that the foundation recently acquired about an acre of space, recently owned by Moeller Instruments next door to the playhouse, to have more space for the construction project.

“We do not see this project interfering with any of the buildings nearby the Ivoryton Playhouse,” he said. “This includes Ivoryton Public Library, Moeller Instruments, and any residential area.”

After further discussion with the commission, Carey Duques, the Land Use Official and Wetlands Enforcement Officer, said that the proposed access road may be considered a future project. As of right now, the main focus is the storage area and septic system that were proposed, and it may be best in the future to go to a public hearing.

A motion to accept the application was made by Noreen Brennan-Rowe, and the commission also agreed to schedule a public hearing on Feb. 10 at Essex Town Hall at 7 p.m.

Doane and the foundation will provide more information to the residents of Essex, including those who may feel like they are affected by this construction. The commission also agreed to do a thorough site walk into the proposed construction area prior to the public hearing, accompanied by Ben Hope and other Ivoryton Playhouse staff, on Jan. 26.

Stolen Identity? Take These Steps

By Officer Scott Gingras

Guilford Police Department

If you’ve ever been a victim of identity theft, you know that dealing with the aftermath is often stressful and overwhelming. You’ll likely be on the phone with your bank and credit card companies, canceling accounts, changing passwords, talking with police, and spending hours trying to mitigate the fact that your personal information is now out there, in the hands of scammer. Here are a few important tips for what to do if you believe you’ve been a victim of identity theft:

1. Call the companies where the fraud occurred to notify them that your identity was stolen. For example, if you find that someone else applied for an American Express credit card in your name, contact American Express Customer Service and ask to speak to the Fraud Department. Tell them to close or freeze the account in question.

2. Place a fraud alert and/or freeze on your credit. A fraud alert lets lenders know that you have been a victim of identity theft and so they must verify your identity before opening a new credit account in your name. A freeze blocks a creditor from accessing your credit report at all, so a new credit account cannot be opened in your name. To place a fraud alert, contact one of the three credit bureaus, Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax. Whichever bureau you place the fraud alert with must notify the other two. An initial fraud alert is free and lasts up to one year, but can be renewed.

An extended fraud alert can also be placed for up to seven years. Credit freezes are also free. To place a freeze on your credit, you must contact each of the credit

Library Hosts Food Drive

Scam SmartS

bureaus individually. Note that you will have to temporarily lift the freeze when doing things like applying for a credit card or loan, renting an apartment, buying insurance, etc.

3. Review your credit report and look for any suspicious activity or unauthorized accounts that may have been opened in your name. Go to AnnualCreditReport.com or call 877-3228228 to obtain a free copy of your credit report. You can get a free copy of your credit report once a week from each of the three credit bureaus.

4. Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov and file a report with your local police department. For internetrelated identity theft scams, you can also make a report directly to the FBI via the online Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at IC3.gov.

Contact each of the three credit bureaus at:

-Experian.com/help 888-397-3742

-TransUnion.com/credit-help 888-909-8872

-Equifax.com/peronal/credit-reportservices 800 685-1111

If you believe you’ve been a victim of identity theft, contact GPD or your local police department as soon as possible. Visit IdentityTheft.gov for more information and resources.

Essex Library Association (ELA) will host a food drive until Friday, Jan. 30, during regular library operating hours. A wagon for nonperishable donated food items is set up across from the library’s circulation desk. The donated food items benefit the Region 4 Backpack Program, which provides nutritious food when other resources are not available to students identified by school social workers at Essex Elementary, John Winthrop Middle School, and Valley Regional High School. Occasions when other resources are unavailable include weekends or school vacations. Suggested donations include juice boxes, shelf-stable milk, (vanilla or chocolate), applesauce cups, fruit cups, pretzels, fruit snacks, oatmeal pouches, cereal cups, breakfast/granola bars, Nutella, tuna, mayonnaise, mac & cheese, Chef Boyardee products, ramen, peanut butter, grape or strawberry jelly, beef stew, Ricea-Roni, pasta, sauce, beans, corn, and sloppy joe. The food is delivered weekly to students and includes breakfasts, lunches, dinners, beverages, and snacks. For more information, call the library at 860-767-1560.

A New “Yoga Retreat Center” Could Soon Be Coming to Deep River

By Christian Maldonado

Staff Writer

A historic building at 135 Kirtland St. in Deep River could be finding a new purpose soon, after the Deep River Planning and Zoning Commission accepted a request for a new special permit application. Karishma Kadian, who recently moved to Deep River from Lyme, spoke to the board about her plan to purchase the 84-acre property that was once Mt. St. John School.

For over a century, the building was an important landmark: first in Hartford, then in Deep River. It was a school for much of its history, but also at times was an orphanage for boys and a home/school. The current building, constructed in 1920, served as a clinical day school, but closed down for good in December 2024.

Now, Kadian wants to turn it into a yoga retreat center. She stood in front of the Planning and Zoning Commission on Wednesday, Jan. 15, to talk more about her plan and vision for the massive 91,000square-foot building, currently owned by Mount Saint John Inc.

“I plan to rehabilitate this architectural treasure,” she said. “I would like to transform it from a boarding school into an upscale wellness hospitality business, offering yoga and meditation instruction, nature immersion, nutritional and cooking instruction and other holistic teachings.”

According to Kadian, the building will have an emphasis on the arts as well, combining art with therapeutic workshops and classes for those who decide to attend the center. She plans on offering yoga teacher training for aspiring instructors, as well as for current teachers who are maintaining their Yoga Alliance registration.

With this, she hopes that this new facility will help to create jobs in and around Deep River, estimating the creation of over 40 jobs for the retreat center. Kadian also promised that guests of the center will not strain the resources of the town.

“The business is forecasted to generate millions of dollars of revenue in line with the commitment to economic growth and job creation emphasized in the Town of Deep River Plan of Conservation and Development for 2025 through to 2035,” she said. “An estimated 40 jobs will be created, and visitors will also patronize local businesses in the area.”

The center will be for adults only, and Kadian plans to provide 30 guest rooms, and with a maximum occupancy of 48 overnight guests. Those visitors will generally stay in one-week increments.

Kadian says that she is enrolled in the University of Connecticut Master Gardener Program, learning more about conservation and stewardship of the environment and property she intends to purchase. Her plan is also to make renovations to the existing building, with no plans for extra construction or additions to the surrounding area.

“Renovations will occur in phases due to the extremely large size of the former school,” she said. “The first phase will entail renovation of the original historic building, while later phases include the possible renovation of the 1992 addition, potentially increasing the total capacity to 108 guests.”

The commission agreed to have her submit a special permit application, and if this is done promptly the plan will be up for further discussion at the next Planning and Zoning meeting.

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.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF CHESTER

PARTY-ENDORSED CANDIDATES FOR TOWN COMMITTEE AT-LARGE

A certified list of 17 Republican party-endorsed candidates for the Town of Chester for election as Members of the Town Committee At-Large is on file in my office at 203 Middlesex Avenue, Chester, Connecticut and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee Members to be elected under party rules, is 30.

A Primary will be held on March 3, 2026, if 8 candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of town committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with §§9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, not later than 4:00 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates, exceeds the number of town committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held.) Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies, may be obtained from Tracey B. Ohaus, Republican Registrar of Voters, Chester Town Hall.

Kathryn Hair Chester Town Clerk

LEGAL NOTICE

BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS, ESSEX CT

The Town of Essex Board of Assessment Appeals will hear appeals of assessments on the October 1, 2025 Grand List and for motor vehicles on the 2024 Supplemental List on the following dates:

• March 11, 2026 5:00-8:00 pm

• March 20, 2026 5:00-8:00 pm

• March 21, 2026 8:30 am – 9:30 am

Any taxpayer not in agreement with the assessment may appeal to the Board of Assessment Appeals. Connecticut General Statutes, Section 12-111, requires written petitions of appeal containing specific information be filed in the Assessor’s office on or before the February 20, 2026 deadline. Postmarks will not be accepted. Forms are available in the Assessor’s office of the Essex Town Hall and on line, and must be either hand delivered or mailed to the Assessor’s office. An appointment time will be assigned after receipt of the written appeal. Appeal hearings must be made in person by the taxpayer or duly authorized agent. All hearings are held at the Essex Town Hall at 29 West Avenue, Essex CT 06426.

Keith Russell, Chairman Board of Assessment Appeals, Essex, CT

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF CHESTER

By the authority of the State of Connecticut, I have received a Tax Warrant to collect taxes due to the Town of Chester on the Grand List of October 1, 2024. All persons whose names are listed on the 2024 Grand List are hereby notified and liable to pay tax to the Town of Chester, with the second installment of Real Estate and Personal Property bills due and payable on January 1, 2026.

All persons receiving a supplemental Motor Vehicle tax bill are hereby notified that said tax is due and payable in one installment on January 1, 2026.

Failure to make payment on or before February 3, 2026 will result in an interest charge of one and one half percent (1.5%) per month from the due date of January 1, 2026 until payment is made with a minimum charge of $2.00 per bill. Mail postmarked on or before February 3, 2026 will be considered an on-time payment.

As a matter of law, the taxpayer is liable to the town for the tax installment(s) as they become due and payable. Failure to receive a bill does not relieve the taxpayer of the requirement to pay the bill or the statutorily required interest when a late payment is made.

Tax office hours for January 2026 are Monday-Thursday 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm.

Closed Fridays except for January 16, 2026 9am-12pm and January 30, 2026 9am-12pm.

We encourage you to view and pay your bill(s) online at https://www.chesterct.org/ (payment processing fee applies) or via mail. Checks should be made payable to Town of Chester Tax Collector and mailed to the following address.

Town of Chester Tax Collector PO Box 314 Chester, CT 06412

Emily J. Vetter-Haupt Tax Collector

Chester and Deep River Officials Discuss School System Future in Joint Meeting

Continued from page 1

assembled in order to come to a conclusion on what to do with the current grade configuration, as well as what to do with current school buildings in the three towns. The idea of a combined Deep River and Chester elementary school was floated to the rest of the meeting attendees, although she mentioned that in Chester, there has not been any formal engagement with residents and taxpayers on how they would feel about the potential of that idea becoming a reality.

Deep River First Selectwoman Carol Jones said that with some of the conversations she has been having with Deep River residents, there might be a feeling that residents are open to changes being made.

“Through the feedback that I have heard from residents, it sounds like people are open to something happening,” she said. “We have heard many different opinions, and the general feedback has been that something has to give. Everybody wants the best education for their children.”

The main issues that have been up for discussion lately have been the cost-effectiveness of each town having their own elementary school. Region 4 data has shown a steady decline in students in all three towns over the past few years, and with the amount of money it takes to maintain the elementary school buildings, along with small class sizes, everyone in attendance was in agreement that a change needs to be made.

Chester Selectwoman Pat Bandzes spoke more about the budgets of both Chester and Deep River, citing the little room they have to lower their budgets.

“The schools have always been the biggest part of our town budget,” she said. “We are really at a breaking point…there is not a lot of room to budge on the town budget, this has to start with the schools.”

Tim Puglieli, recently appointed chair of the Deep River Board of Finance, highlighted the Region 4 budget process. Echoing what Selectwoman Bandzes said about schools being the biggest part of the town budget, he mentioned the lack of attention that gets paid by the public to the Region 4 budget process.

“There are very few people that attend meetings when these budgets are being constructed,” he said.

Deep River Selectman Duane Gates made mention of the fact that Essex was not invited to be in attendance for this meeting. While understanding the reasoning for the meeting, Gates emphasized that Essex should be a part of the conversation as well.

“I wish the other town was here with us; we should be talking about these decisions together,” he said. “They work together on the Region 4 budgets, we should be working together on our elementary school together…. Our residents cannot afford for things to stay like this. Our mill rate keeps going up and up.”

Cindy Lignar brought up the idea of working together with Carol Jones and Essex First Selectman Norm Needleman to put out a public survey for the residents of all three towns, assessing how the public would feel about a change to the structure of the school systems. While there were no formal decisions made, nor definite things put into place, it was agreed that all parties would continue to discuss this topic in the future.

Abby Roccapriore Never Fails to Assist Her Community

Continued from page 2

community, and education, something that Abby prides herself in, and uses her skills to foster a sense of community for those who decide to take a class with her.

Her special interest is sewing, and she has been able to teach many classes, as well as had her work featured in many shows at the studio.

“This is definitely the job that I really

want to hold onto for as long as I can,” she says. “It really keeps me going…we also work with “craftivism,” using our art and talent to be able to make a statement and talk about the issues in the world that we are passionate about.

Craftivism is a growing trend, providing a platform for artists to be able to use their work as a way to highlight injustices, or promote changes that they would like to see in the world.

TOWN OF DEEP RIVER LEGAL NOTICE

A certified list of 23 Democratic party-endorsed candidates for the Town of Deep River for election as members of the Town Committee At-Large is on file in my office at 174 Main Street, Deep River, Connecticut, and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee members to be elected, under party rules, is 30.

A primary will be held March 3, 2026, if 8 candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of Town Committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with Sec. 9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, not later than 4 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates, exceeds the number of Town Committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held.) Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies, may be obtained from Elizabeth Lori Gregan, Democratic Registrar of Voters, 174 Main Street, Deep River, Connecticut 06417.

Amy M. Winchell, MCTC Municipal Clerk Town of Deep River

Dated at Deep River, Connecticut, this 14th day of January, 2026

“Art is really a way to express yourself and what you believe in,” Abby says. “I like to ask, ‘how can we express ourselves and get our point across using art?’”

When she is off work at Tri-Town Youth and Shell and Bee, Abby still finds a way to stay involved as a member of the Human Rights Committee in her hometown of Clinton. Being someone who takes pride in her community and where she lives, she always wants to help others.

“Working with the committee, we want to make this town accessible for everyone,” she says. “I like to be very involved with the town that I live in, and we partner with different human rights committees around the state.”

Abby has really shown no signs of stopping, and wants to continue the work that she does in all three places, providing a safe environment for all, regardless of their background.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF CHESTER PARTY-ENDORSED CANDIDATES FOR TOWN COMMITTEE AT-LARGE

A certified list of 15 Democratic party-endorsed candidates for the Town of Chester for election as Members of the Town Committee At-Large is on file in my office at 203 Middlesex Avenue, Chester, Connecticut and copies are available for public distribution. The number of Town Committee Members to be elected under party rules, is 25.

A Primary will be held on March 3, 2026, if 6 candidacies (which is at least 25% of the number of town committee members to be elected by such party in the municipality) are filed in accordance with §§9-382 to 9-450, inclusive, of the General Statutes, by persons other than party-endorsed candidates, not later than 4:00 p.m. of January 28, 2026, provided the number of such candidacies plus the number of endorsed candidates, exceeds the number of town committee members to be elected. (If the number of opposing candidacies filed is reduced to less than such 25%, no primary will be held.) Petition forms, instructions and information concerning the procedure for filing opposing candidacies may be obtained from Victor Fetter, Democratic Registrar of Voters, Chester Town Hall.

Valley Courier

Valley Courier

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Valley Regional Turns Season Around, Wins Four of Last Five

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The Valley Regional boys’ basketball team started the season off slowly, but over the last five games, the Warriors have turned things around. The Warriors have won four out of the last five games and have emerged as a deep, defensively focused unit with several volume scorers.

The Warriors have defeated Goodwin Tech, North Branford, Coginchaug, and Hale Ray in the last five outings, and have begun to look like a team on the rise. Valley Regional coach Kevin Woods said the improvement is attributed to better defense, shot selection, and the overall health of the roster.

“We definitely have improved our defense. That’s the biggest thing, which ultimately has resulted in having better offense as well,” Woods said. “Our offensive execution is better. Our shot selection is better, so we’re playing less defense, which helps us. We’re playing better as a team, we’re moving the ball better.”

Due to the initial health of the roster, the team started with just an eight-man rotation, which caused limitations in the team’s ability to score and defend. However, Valley Regional has since gained its health back and has received significant production from senior Cody Saunders, senior Michael Spencer, senior Logan Prue, freshman Paul Malaguti, senior Eli Torres, and sophomore Mitchell Bowe.

These players have been able to provide energy off the bench, lock down defense, and have been able to pull down rebounds to give Valley Regional extra possessions and limit opposing teams.

A big lift to the Warriors’ offensive emergence is the scoring duo of junior Tavis Filacchione and senior Noah Dolinsky. In their recent 64-47 victory over Hale Ray, Dolinsky finished with 25 points, while Filacchione led the way with 26 points.

giving us big nights offensively. He can score inside and outside, and when we get him and Noah going on the same night, forget it.”

Filacchione’s performance is the second consecutive game that he led the team in points, as he also led the team in scoring in Valley Regional’s 57-52 victory over Coginchaug with 27 points.

“Dolinsky has been a consistent scorer over the past three years, and he’s still averaging a lot of points,” Woods said. “Tavis is really emerging as a prime-time scorer along with Noah. Everything is within the offense, and really, what the conscious effort’s been is to get the ball

A major key to the overall development of the team has been the return of sophomore floor general Brady Evans. The point guard missed the first few games of the season, but his presence on the court has allowed Valley Regional’s offense to flow smoothly and efficiently.

“He’s outstanding. He had a really great breakout freshman year last year,” Woods said. “Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to start the year on time, but since he’s been back, you can’t ignore it. We’re 4-1 with him.”

Overall, the Warriors are playing with

together now that roles have been identified. Woods believes the players are buying into the program and challenging themselves throughout practice to get better each day.

He said they have the correct mindset to move forward and to continue to rise to the occasion.

“We’re getting better all around every single day,” Wood said. “A lot of times our practices are better than our games, and when you’re doing that, the games get easier. If we can continue to hold those highlevel practices and keep those standards really high for when nobody’s looking, when people are in the stands, we’re going to have good results and Valley fans will be happy.”

the team will be continuing that high level of play for a full game. Woods said the team has moments of highs and lows, but has not been able to put it all together for a full game yet.

“We have to play a full 32 minutes,” he said. “We’ve been really good in the first half, but we have to come out of the half carrying that effort into the third quarter. We put ourselves in tough spots. I give the guys credit. We find ways to win games, but we have had some big leads that got a little uncomfortable for a while.”

Valley Regional returns to the court on Friday, Jan. 23, on the road at Portland at 7 p.m.

Westbrook Hosts Shoreline Conference Unified Sports Basketball Tournament

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

On Tuesday, Jan. 13, Westbrook hosted the Shoreline Conference Unified Sports Basketball Tournament, welcoming 11 teams, more than 160 athletes, and over 30 coaches for an afternoon of teamwork and sportsmanship.

The schools that attended the event included Old Saybrook, Hale Ray, Coginchaug, Portland, Cromwell, Branford, Valley Regional, Old Lyme, North Branford, and Daniel Hand.

Westbrook Unified Sports coach Kara Lesandrine called the event the “ultimate feel-good event.” She said the event showcased a moment where everyone can get together with their peers, and show camaraderie, help, and support each other.

“It was incredible,” Lesandrine said. “My volunteers were amazing. Working with all the kids, helping teams go from place to place. We had multiple gyms going. It’s just such a wonderful event in terms of the camaraderie that it shows between the schools, the partners, and the athletes.”

The primary goal of unified sports is to bring together athletes who are students who have exceptionalities in various ways and peer partners, to give all athletes an area to shine. The program develops deep relationships through sports and art as a lens.

At Westbrook, many of the seniors and juniors are volunteers at the event.

“We have a very strong unified class at Westbrook. It’s a class that we run during the day, and then we also have an afterschool program,” Lesandrine said. “So, the kids get an opportunity to work together during school, and they really plan it together.”

Lesandrine added years ago that Westbrook had several strong volunteers who even went to prom with some of the unified players; however, due to COVID, the participation dipped. She said the senior volunteer group now has been participating since their freshman year, and has fully taken the reigns pf the class.

“They have genuine friendships, which is always really what you want,” she said. “To have leadership like the seniors, primarily, and our juniors, it makes the uni-

fied program run as smoothly as it does.”

The Westbrook Unified schedule will continue later this month with another sporting event at Coginchaug, and then a snowball winter event dance on Jan. 30.

Athletic Director Caitlin Eichler also voiced her appreciation for the Westbrook tournament and how positive the event was.

“Coach Lesandrine and the Westbrook Unified Sports team did an incredible job

organizing a seamless and memorable tournament,” Eichler said. “The event wrapped up with a celebratory pizza party, giving athletes and coaches a chance to relax, share stories, and enjoy the camaraderie of a truly special event.”

Lesandrine gave special thanks to the Westbrook administration for their support in running the unified sports program. She said the support from the community can not be understated.

“That’s what makes unified so special,” Lesandrine said. “I hope everywhere, but particularly in Westbrook, is the community support that we receive and the support from administration. All the way from the superintendent to the principal, to our athletic directors. Everyone, it’s not just the kids running this without support from the administration and the community. It could not be as wonderful as it is.”

Fiery End to a Vessel Evolving with the Times

One of the most historically significant and frequently referenced shipwrecks in Long Island Sound is the fast steamboat Lexington, commissioned by Cornelius Vanderbilt - sometimes referred to as the SS Lexington. On Jan. 13, 1840, at 3 a.m., the vessel caught fire. It was a paddle wheel steamboat and today lies broken up on the bottom at approximately 41º1’56”N, 73º7’21”W in 80 to 140 feet of water, south of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Attempts to raise it in 1842 failed when chains holding the hull gave way, and it sank once again. Although several unsuccessful attempts have been made to recover it and/or a large amount of silver estimated to be over $100,000 that is still believed to be somewhere on board, all efforts met a dead end - except for $50,000 in melted silver coins.

The fire erupted around its smokestack casing and quickly spread to cotton bales stored onboard. Rescue was chaotic and tragic: lifeboats capsized or were destroyed, and many passengers and crew desperately clung to floating cotton bales. Only four people out of about 143 on board survived! An investigation revealed that issues with how its boilers were converted for coalburning contributed to the fire. By all accounts, this wreck is considered one of the worst maritime disasters in Long Island Sound’s history.

Given the depth and structure, this wreck (and portions of it) offer potential for anglers looking to fish multi-species habitats. In season and more often than not, its depth and bottom contour attract black sea bass, tautog, scup, and summer flounder. Add schools of baitfish and an ample predatory seascape, and fishers can catch striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish, as well as perhaps running into a feeding school of bonito or false albacore.

The wreck makes for good jigging and trolling and is best suited for medium or mediumheavy gear setups - although there can be some topwater action where lighter configurations might be preferred. These are grounds for good electronics and detailed nauti-

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

Fishing report

cal/bathymetric charts. However, wire cables from previous salvage operations and miscellaneous debris surround the steamboat Lexington’s pieces and parts, including its paddlewheel, massive boiler, and engine. It is a destination worth investigating.

On The Water:

High pressure to the south moved well offshore as a cold front approached and moved across the waters. The Arctic cold associated with the Jet Stream brought colder air temperatures along with the threat of snowfall to southern Connecticut. However, at that time, an offshore pressure system brought a mostly rainy event to the shoreline, shifting any accumulating snow farther north. High pressure returned but moved to the east and offshore. A series of weak lows followed with their associated frontal systems, then moved across the area. During and through the January thaw, predawn air temperatures fluctuated from the mid-teens to a high of 39ºF while daytimes swung from the mid-20’s to a high of 46 degrees. Days generally were a mix of sun/clouds broken up by a few rainy days and some light snow followed by a shift to more snow along the eastern shoreline. Meanwhile, under sea advisories, Long Island Sound saw some gusty 35 knot, south/southwest winds driving seas to 5 feet occasionally while maintaining water temps between 35-37 degrees. January’s thaw changed any icescape south of I-95 that Arctic blasts and dropping jet streams contributed to creating hard water. Ice fishers had some action just north of the shoreline, but for the most part, the best action was found farther north. Even then, the ice softened in several areas, creating risky conditions. However, those areas that somehow remained protected from the heavy winds and had established enough hard water during the cold spell still managed to pro-

duce limited activity with catches of bass, pickerel, and panfish. As we enter another cool-down, ice fishing in those areas should get back on track, leaving tip-up and jigging stick action along the shoreline limited while north of I95 cranks back up. The upside for the past week has been more open water angling for trout, Atlantic salmon, and holdover striped bass in a few of the key tidal rivers. It was a good opportunity for trout anglers to make use of their fly rods or ultralightweight finesse set-ups in the rivers, trout parks, and Class brookie rivers and streams. Long Island Sound has had more than its share of high winds and angry seas. After these events, it is quite revealing to do a little beachcombing to observe any new structural/contour changes. Fishers kept busy with other fishing-related alternatives

from tinkering with gear in the ‘cave’ to heading out for a little exploring along the beaches to see what washed up - even taking a trip to fish the warmer latitudes. Some even headed north to ski country or where the ice was much thicker to plan out and pop a few holes. For many, birds of prey hold interest and are what to watch, as well as observing wildlife as they navigate through the wintry woods. Just think! Due to earlier sunrises and later sunsets, by Jan. 31, we’ll have gained approximately 47 minutes of total daylight.

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. Or, contact Captain Morgan for a fly fishing trip of a lifetime to a remote national or international fishing destination.

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

Hand Girls’ Ice Hockey

Focused on Camaraderie, Development

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“That’s the thing we’ve been really harping on and working on in practices is really putting more pressure on the puck, causing turnovers, and minimizing our turnovers in the neutral zone,” Thompson said. With the tough start to the year and the season essentially becoming a rebuilding year, the tough challenges have not come without their positive bright spots as well.

Several underclassmen have popped off the ice for Thompson and the Tigers.

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

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

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

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

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

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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!

Showcases Mixed-Media Art at Guilford Library All Mixed Up

Mixed Up,

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

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

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

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

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

Clark has been a lifelong creator. Before exploring this new

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

nest was growing under the eaves of her Guilford home.

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

Goddess of The Forest

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

Throughout the summer, the

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

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

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

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

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

niques are all self-taught.

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

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

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

Calendar for the Week of January 22, 2026

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

THURSDAY,

Junior Librarians

JAN. 22

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a new four-session program for ages 8 to 12 offering a behind-the-scenes look at library operations with the children’s and teen Librarians. Participants will explore organizing materials, designing displays, planning programs, and more. Free. Commitment to all four sessions and celebration is expected. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Colorful Paper Weaving

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

Connecticut River Ferries: Past, Present, and Future with Captain Paul Costello

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a talk on the histories of the ChesterHadlyme and the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury ferries, the challenges both ferries faced, the reason they survived, the improvements made to them over the decades, and the future of the two remaining ferries. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

Drive-in Movie Night

: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Decorate a file box with paper plates for wheels and bring it to the library for a “drive-in” movie. Participants can sit in the “car” (or on the floor) in the children’s room for the film showing. Popcorn served. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Puzzles and Pizza

: 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Small teams and families will assemble puzzles in celebration of National Puzzle Day. Pizza will be served. Intended for all ages. Space is limited. For info or to register (required by Tuesday, Jan. 20), call 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

Author Event: Jen Hatmaker Awake: A Memoir

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

National Theatre Live in HD Encore:

: 7 p.m.

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 150 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

An Evening with Edgar Allan Poe

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

Guilford Job Network Meet

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

FRIDAY, JAN. 23

Aging Well Expo

: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features exhibitors and speakers on healthy aging, with information on fitness, wellness, downsizing, transportation, home care, and more. Free. For info, call 860-388-1611 or visit yourestuary.org.

Friday Movie Matinee

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

How to Use ChatGPT Artificial Intelligence: A Basic Introduction

: 4 to 5 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $35. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

ChatGPT Side Hustle: 20+ Ways to Make an Income with ChatGPT, Working from Home

: 5 to 6 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $35. Prior knowledge of ChatGPT is not required. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Concert by Ellis Paul

: 8 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.

SATURDAY, JAN. 24

Winter in Broomstick Ledges Life of Pi

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

Practice SAT Exam

: 9 a.m. to noon. Virtual event. Features a full-length practice SAT hosted by the library in partnership with C2 Education. For info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Get Grounded for the New Year EFT Tapping and Boundaries Workshop

: : 10 to 11:30 a.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features a workshop led by energy practitioner Jess Leone introducing EFT tapping techniques focused on stress reduction and boundary setting. For info or to register (required), visit northbranfordlibraries.org.

Volunteer Fair

: 10 a.m. to noon. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Representatives from local nonprofits provide information on community work and volunteer opportunities. Free. For info, call 203488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Kids Create: Axolotl Keychains

: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Kids ages 6 to 12 will design and assemble beaded axolotl keychains using colorful pony beads. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Fourth Annual Jigsaw Puzzle Competition

: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Teams (maximum four members) race to complete a 500-piece puzzle. The winning team receives a gift card to a local business. Free and open to all. Limited seating. Sponsored by the Friends of the Acton Library. For info or to register (required), call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Cheap Flights, Hotel Deals, and Grocery Savings with AI

: 11 a.m. to noon. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $35. Features a beginner class and students are not required to have prior knowledge of ChatGPT. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Native Plant Seed Exchange

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

Concert by Suzanne O Davis: Tapestry: the Carole King Songbook:

3 and 8 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.

See page 21

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

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

Women and the Vote

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

Returns Suffs English English

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

Continued from page 20

Aisle ON THE

The Weir

The Guardian

From Edinburgh to Yale Great Show

: The next show at Yale, , is a solo performance by Julia Masli, which debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where it was named best of the year by newspaper. It has since played in Melbourne, New York, and D.C. The show changes each performance based on audience participation. It’s at the Yale Rep through Saturday, Feb. 7. For tickets, visit YaleRep.org.

Broadway Baby

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

The Cottage

Guttenberg! The Musical

: Currently on stage in Connecticut are , a new drawing room comedy at Hartford Stage, and at Playhouse on Park in West Hartford.

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

: The New Haven Theater Company, which performs at

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

A Tribute to The Eagles

: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by The Eagles Experience. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a buffet dinner. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will be seated at tables with other guests. For info or reservations, call 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events.

Put the Phone Away, Let the Marbles Pla

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

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

NYC Notes

Bake-Off

SUNDAY, JAN. 25

Take Me Out

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Annie

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

In Memoriam

The Gin Game

Just Desserts: A Musical

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

The Gin Game

Unplugged, Shoreline Therapy Center, and the Killingworth Library. For info or to register (required), call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

YMA Annex, 554 Woodward Ave., New Haven. Sponsored by the New Haven Philatelic Society. For info, visit nhps1914.com.

Open House at East Shoreline Catholic Academy

:

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. East Shoreline Catholic Academy, 62 Cedar St., Branford. Families with children in grades preK3 to 6 can tour the school and learn about its project-based STREAM curriculum. Snow date: Saturday, Feb. 22. For info or to schedule an appointment, contact 203-488-8386 or admissions@eastshorelinecatholicacademy.org.

Lava Lamp Making Workshop

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features a hands-on workshop for children exploring solubility and density while creating a lava lamp to take home. Led by STEAM Dreamers LLC. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

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

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

Essex Winter Series (EWS): Timeless Bonds and New Horizons

: 3 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Features the inaugural Mihae Lee legacy concert with new Artistic Director Tara Helen O’Connor joined by Ani Kavafian, violin; Peter Wiley, cello; and Shai Wosner, piano. Part of the EWS 2026 Season, in the celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. Tickets: $45, general admission; $5, students through college. For info or tickets, call 860272-4572 or visit essexwinterseries.com.

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

4 p.m. Hubley Hall, First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln. Presented by Jim Powers. Sponsored by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Part of the 2026 Frederick Lee Lectures series. Admission: $5 suggested fee, free to MHS members. For info, call 203-245-4567 or office@madisonhistory.org.

Concert by The Meadow Brothers and Belle of the Fall

: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Tickets: $29. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Page Turners

MeettheNewmans

ByJenniferNiven

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

— Marisa

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

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

EveryDayIRead

ByHwangBo-reum

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

— Mel

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

TheFirstTimeISawHim

ByLauraDave

TheStorm

ByRachelHawkins

The Last Thing He Told Me

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

—

Tijae

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

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

— Tijae

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Page Turners

Continued from page 22

ASnowDayforAmosMcGee

ByPhilipC.Stead

This is a beautiful story with incredible illustrations. It is the third book about Amos McGee who works at the zoo taking care of his animal friends. The first snow of the season is on its way and his animal friends have all received knitted cozy gifts from him. When the snow finally arrives they all have a wonderful time. I highly recommend this story for elementary-age children.

— Sue Breakwater Books, Guilford

TheBorrowedLifeofFrederickFife

ByAnnaJohnston

This is a debut novel about 82-year-old Frederick Fife who is a lonely, warmhearted man facing eviction from his apartment. Through no fault of his own, Frederick finds himself being mistaken for a grumpy old resident of the local nursing home named Bernard Greer. Unfortunately, after finding Bernard dead in his wheelchair with his body falling into the river, everyone assumes that Frederick is Bernard. The resemblance between the two is amazing and adds to the fact that everyone assumes he is Bernard. As Frederick adopts his new home, you will watch how his kind heart makes a difference among the other residents and staff at the nursing home.

— Sue Breakwater Books, Guilford

BethIsDead

ByKatieBernet

This stunning debut novel by Katie Bernet is not a retelling of Louisa May Alcott’s . It’s a stand-alone whodunit with everyone a suspect. While it might be fun to compare and contrast to this book (or watch the movie on Netflix like I did), the reader does not need knowledge of the classic to enjoy this page-turner. Beth is dead and everyone has a motive.

— Little Women Little Women Judi

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Skylark

ByPaulaMcLain

In two timelines set in Paris nearly 300 years apart, Paula McLain tells the story of Alouette, a gifted, defiant young woman who, in 1664, is wrongly imprisoned in the infamous Salpêtrière asylum, and Kristof, a young doctor who, in 1942, makes a life-changing choice. Riveting, heartbreaking, yet full of hope and courage. I couldn’t put it down!

— Marilyn

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Continued from page 21

MONDAY, JAN. 26

Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS): Intro Class

: 6 to 8 p.m. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, 322 Main St. CPS is an approach to reduce challenging behavior, teach kids the skills they lack, and build relationships with the adults in their lives. For info or to register, email jessica.wood@oldsaybrookct.gov.

Songs and Stories with Patti Smith

:

7 p.m. The Lyman Center at SCSU, 501 Crescent St., New Haven. Book: . Cost: $55, includes admission for one attendee and a copy of the book; $20, admission for one student. Sponsored by R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

TUESDAY, JAN. 27

Women’s Club Announces

Cash-Only Food Drive for the Madison Food Pantry

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

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

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

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

and improve its ability to provide nourishing food to clients.

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

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

About the Women’s Club of

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

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

For more information, visit womens clubmadisonct.com.

The Anatomy of Grit: A Journey From Survival to Purpose

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a talk by Justin Brownell. Hosted by the Branford Land Trust. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Desserts that Dazzle

: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Features a hands-on class to make a three-layer almond tart and a French chocolate dessert. All ingredients and equipment provided. Cost: $30 plus a $30 materials fee to cover all supplies (exact change requested). No experience needed. Participants take home what they make. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Adult and Pediatric CPR Awareness Training

History of Nintendo Playable Museum

:

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

Math Mania

: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For elementary-aged children. Features games and activities to reinforce math skills. Focus for the session is addition. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

History Comes Alive: The History of Nintendo

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

Kids' Movie Showing

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

Pickin’ Party Bread of Angels

: 6 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.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28

: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. No certification is available with this class. Cost: $25. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org. : 1 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.

Hollywood Gems: National Lego Day

The Marrying Kind

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

Nourishing and Affordable Batch Cooking for a Healthier Lifestyle

: 6 to 8 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Cost: $40 plus a $40 materials fee due one week before the class via Venmo or Zelle. Bring a dish towel, containers for leftovers, one glass container for a recipe, and an (optional) apron. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. To pay by Venmo, visit https://venmo.com/u/breathe-n-bloom. To pay via Zelle, contact 203-506-1101 or eliana.serna.info@gmail.com. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

See page 25

Continued from page 24

Kindergarten Kickback with Legos and Cars

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Bring your favorite matchbox racers or try the cars provided by the library. Dinner will be served. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org/events.

Author Event: Kat Ashmore in Conversation with Diane Morrisey

Big Bites: Time to Eat!

: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church, 26 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Book: . Ticket options available. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore

Branford Land Trust Launches Winter 2026 Speaker Series with Story on Resilience

Press Release from the Branford Land Trust

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

The God of the Woods: A Novel

The Branford Land Trust Winter 2026 Speaker Series kicks off with “Access to the Outdoors: Disability, Grit, and Belonging in Nature,” a story of disability, resilience, and finding the way back to the outdoors presented by Justin Brownell. The event will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 6 p.m. in the auditorium at the James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main Street, Branford.

Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore

The God of the Woods: A Novel

: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

Concert by Lee DeWyze

: 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.

THURSDAY, JAN. 29

Brownell is an amputee and near-death trauma survivor, recovered IV drug abuser, and until recently, a single parent to a now 20-year-old daughter. As he explains, “Post accident and amputation, I became a triathlete, a mountain climber, a runway model, and hopefully an allaround better person.”

Brownell speaks about his remarkable journey from survival to purpose. Through vulnerability and reflection, he shares how trauma, grit, and growth shaped the life he leads today—one dedicated to thriving and helping others do the same.

This event and all succeeding Winter Speaker Series events are free and open to the public. All series events will be held at the Blackstone Library.

Llama Llama Mess, Mess, Mess

Llama

Llama Mess, Mess, Mess

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

Story and Craft: : Red Cross Blood Drive

: 1 to 6 p.m. East Creek Landing, 390 S. Union St., Guilford. The event marks the 20th annual blood drive in honor of the 20th anniversary of the loss of Nicole Flagge, daughter of Jay and Barbara Flagge. For info or to make an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

SEL-Based Theater Workshop with Wilder Moon Collective

: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Socialemotional learning workshop for ages 9

The Branford Land Trust Winter 2026 Speaker Series includes the following events: Marie Comuzzo, “Singing and Listening with Whales: Exploring Human and More-than-Human Musicalities” on Feb. 24; Two Coyotes Wilderness School, “Raising Our Future Ancestors” on March 24; and Tom Cleveland, “Fish Ladder, 25th Anniversary, History, Stories, and How It Came To Be” on April 28. The Branford Land Trust annual meeting takes place in May.

The Branford Land Trust is a 501(c)(3)

to 12. For info or to register, call 203-4538282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Migrate, Hibernate, and Adapt

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

non-profit organization, accredited by the Land Trust Alliance, established in 1967 to protect Branford’s open space and natural resources. Run by volunteers and supported by member families and businesses, the Land Trust maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails, and manages and protects over 1,000 acres in more than 130 parcels and holds conservation easements on another 400 acres in Branford. For more information and to become a member visit www.branfordland trust.org.

Opening Reception for the

Clinton Art Society 2026 Winter Juried Member Artists Show

: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. The exhibit runs through Thursday, April 23. For info, visit clintonartsocietyct.org/exhibitions.

Whitney Literary Society Inaugural Event

: 5:30 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Features an informal, bimonthly book discussion on U.S. history with a focus on New Haven, which was

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

once the center of governance, education, trade, and culture in Connecticut. Includes a discussion of a book along with a viewing of materials in the New Haven Museum collection, a visit from an author, or a guided tour of a related exhibit. Book: by Jon C. Blue. Snow date: Thursday, Feb. 5. Visitors may register to read and discuss any or all of the books. Free and open to all. For info or to register, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Understanding Electric Rates in Connecticut

: 5:30 p.m. Essex Town Hall, Room A, 29 West Ave. Features a presentation by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) on how electric rates are set and regulated in Connecticut and what future power demands may mean for residents. Hosted by Sustainable Essex. For info, email sustsxct@gmail.com.

Senior Series 1: Housing Decisions for Seniors in Transition

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

Introduction to Sourdough

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Covers sourdough starter care, fermentation and proofing basics, dough shaping, and baking techniques. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit essexlibrary.org.

The Unwritten Rules of Magic

: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Author Event: Harper Ross in Conversation with Kristan Higgins Concert by Satisfaction (Tribute to The Rolling Stones)

: 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The exhibit runs through Saturday, March 14.

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

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

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

New Haven Museum Launches the Whitney Literary Society

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

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

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

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

Homegrown Terror: Benedict Arnold and the Burning of New London

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

Labyrinth

Winchester

of the

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of January 22 - January 28

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

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

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

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

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

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

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

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

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

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

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

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

JANUARY 22

Caitlin Clark, Athlete (24)

JANUARY 23

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

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

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

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

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

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

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

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

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

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

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

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

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 26

Joseph Quinn, Actor (32) JANUARY 27

Mariska Hargitay, Actress (62) JANUARY 24

Neil Diamond, Singer (85) JANUARY 25

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Politician (48)

Bailey Zimmerman, Singer (26) JANUARY 28

J Cole, Rapper (41)

CLUES ACROSS

1. Mechanical lever

7. Rocky peak

10. Leave a country

12. Discount

13. D.C. ballplayer

14. Partner to “oohed”

15. Engine sound

16. Japanese ornamental box

17. Fido is one

18. Amounts of time

19. DiFranco and Phyo are two

21. Yearly tonnage (abbr.)

22. Make secret plans

27. “Tiny Bubbles”Ó singer

28. “His Airness”

33. Morning

34. Perfected

36. Winger guitarist Beach

37. Abba __, Israeli politician

38. Self-immolation by fire ritual

39. A way to save money

40. Pulpit

41. Make ecstatically happy

44. Once more

45. Works on

48. Nocturnal S. American rodent

49. State again

50. Expression of disappointment

51. Type of door

CLUES DOWN

1. Yugoslavian communist leader

2. Exchange rate

3. High school dance

4. Peter’s last name

5. When you anticipate arriving

6. Israeli city __ Aviv

7. Goat-like mammals

8. Margarine

9. End-of-the-spectrum color

10. Make poisonous

11. Popular beverage

12. Actress Lathan

14. Where planes land and depart

17. Political fundraising entity

18. The distinctive spirit of a people or an era

20. Buffer used in microbiology

23. Light, open carriage

24. Metrical feet

25. Email subject line feature

26. A street with lots of nightmares

29. Rapper Rule

30. River in Scotland

31. One who settles a dispute

32. Most chummy

35. We all have our own

36. Arab tribe

38. Slap

40. Ottoman military commanders

41. Scottish or Irish Gaelic language

42. Emit coherent radiation

43. Sun or solar disk (Egyptian mythology)

44. Inclined to

45. Olfactory reference syndrome

46. Chest muscle (slang)

47. Body part

Word Search

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

LOG CABIN WORD SEARCH

ANTLERS

AXE BEAR RUG CABIN CEDAR

CHIMNEY

CHINKING

FIREPLACE

HEARTH

HOMESTEAD

LANTERN LODGE LOFT

LOGS

MANTEL

NOTCHING

PANTRY

PORCH

RETREAT

ROCKING CHAIR

RUSTIC

TIMBER WOOD PILE WOODSTOVE

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for January 15, 2026: POLES

Word Search solution for January 15, 2026

BRANFORD

240 Austin Ryer Ln Unit 240:

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

550 E Main St Unit 22:

Sxs

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

192 Monticello

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

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

Lee

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

Lauren R.

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

CLINTON

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

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

David R. and

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

Robert J.

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

DEEP RIVER

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

Lsf9 Master

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

EAST HAVEN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roxanne L. Tulenfeld of Guilford to Gina B. Nichol, $425,000 on 12/31/2025

Real Estate Transactions

KILLINGWORTH

48 Bar Gate Trl:

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

MADISON

197 Concord Dr:

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

1071 Durham Rd:

James W Durkin

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

677 Durham Rd:

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

318 Horse Pond Rd:

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

Pamela Bonavita of Madison to Michael L. and Emily B. Smith, $1,600,000 on 12/30/2025

BRANFORD

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

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

NORTH HAVEN

Bailey Rd: 36 Bayard Ave:

White Flt and Thomas F. White of North Haven to Younjun Kim, $330,000 on 12/26/2025 123 Liberty St: 84 Oxbow Ln: 11 Williams Rd:

2 Beechwood Dr:

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

31 Bradley St:

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

28 Fieldstone Ct Unit 28:

John W.

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

28 Fieldstone Ct Unit 28:

Kolesnik

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

29 Justine Dr:

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

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

300 Mill Rd:

Anthony Lucatino of North Haven to Joshua Piscitello and Margaret Falkowski, $550,000 on 12/22/2025

37

139 Summit LLC of North Haven to Sophia and Kenroy Mccormack, $395,000 on 12/22/2025

Nicole Mason of North Haven to Meghan Krause, $310,000 on 12/23/2025

Matthew Lee of North Haven to Charles F. Fifield, $410,000 on 12/29/2025

Alvin S Berger

1999 Famil of North Haven to 70 Washington Avenue LLC, $2,200,000 on 12/19/2025

susanmalan.williampitt.com

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

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