Valley Courier 07-30-26 by dayshorepublishing

July 30, 2026

Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol.

Region 4 Eyes Changes, Public Feedback

By Aaron Rubin

Staff Writer

The Region 4 School District is developing recommendations on governance, school and grade configuration, and educational programming following months of discussion by multiple task forces. District officials also plan to seek public feedback later this year.

The recommendations will be the culmination of discussions that have taken place since the Joint Board of Education Committee established four task forces last year. The groups were formed to reexamine Region 4 from four perspectives: finance, governance, school consolidation and grade configuration, and teaching and learning.

Summer Splash

Superintendent Brian White said the community will have an opportunity to weigh in on the recommendations, which could bring changes in all four areas under review. He added that the effort will be a major focus for Region 4 this year.

The task forces will continue their work

See Region 4 Eyes Changes page 10

Josh Knowlton holds a paddle board steady for his daughter, Luci Knowlton, 4, and friends Amelia Bialek, 6, Luke Bialek, 10, and Lennon Fearon, 5, as they take turns jumping into Cedar Lake during the Cedar Lake Concert summer series in Chester on July 26. Engine Room provided the soundtrack as families enjoyed sunny, 75-degree weather.

Star Shoreline sophomore earns spot on all-state rugby team.....................11

Fresh places to stay, dine, and explore give Block Island visitors even more reasons to return........19

PhotobyLauraMatesky/ ValleyCourier

Block Party

Rising

Brien Riedell: History’s Teacher

By Pam Young

Correspondent

Ten years ago, Brien Riedell was asked if he would help lead walking tours for the Essex Historical Society.

For someone who had spent much of his career teaching, the answer came naturally.

“I very much enjoy teaching,” Brien says. “It comes out in you — you want to expand people’s horizons, give them the knowledge.”

Today, Brien leads the Essex Village Walking Tours throughout much of the summer, introducing residents and visitors to the people, architecture and industries that shaped one of Connecticut’s most historic villages.

Each tour is limited to about 20 participants equipped with headsets so they can hear him as they walk through the village during the hourand-15-minute program.

“When I first got involved in this, I had a colleague for many years,” Brien says. “About two or three years ago, I took the whole thing over myself because my colleague bowed out.”

The tours trace the evolution of

Person of the Week

Essex from two families living on the peninsula through its growth during the 18th and 19th centuries, exploring the shipbuilding industry, the businesses that followed and the diverse community that developed along the Connecticut River.

“What I found really interesting was how it all started with two families on the peninsula of Essex, how it grew during the 1700s and 1800s and how we got to be where we are today,”

Brien says.

He especially enjoys helping people understand something many residents have never considered.

“It is also important to note that poverty preserved the town,” he says. “There were not people coming in and building new buildings during that time.”

Born and raised in Norwalk, Brien earned bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and finance before completing an MBA in what was then known as operations research, now called industrial engineering.

After teaching high school mathematics, he spent most of his professional career as a principal architect at AT&T before taking early retirement to care for his mother.

Teaching, however, remained an important part of his life.

Brien later taught full time at the University of New Haven before moving to Manchester Community College, where he continued teaching part time.

That background, he says, naturally carries over into the walking tours.

One of his favorite audiences has been elementary school students and children attending Connecticut River Museum summer camps.

“We volunteered to do those days,” he says. “I would handle the exterior portion of the tours, asking them

See Brien Riedell page 7

Photo courtesy of Brien Riedell Brien Riedell leads the Essex Historical Society's Essex Village Walking Tours,

Letters Editor to the

More Voting is More Feedback

This year was the first time the Region 4 School Budget referendum failed since 2009. The high school and middle school comprise one educational region, under one board of education, and its budget is approved every spring through a tri-town referendum. Each elementary school budget is approved separately as part of their town budget.

For a regional referendum, it’s the total number of votes across all three towns that counts. The total was 296 yes/326 no. With this budget voted down, the Region 4 Board of Education (BOE) needed to review the budget. The BOE had three public forums where members of the public argued both for and against the budget.

The BOE considered making cuts, but the majority of the budget is locked in by labor and service contracts, maintenance needs, etc. Most of the discretionary spending is on student programs. The BOE did not want to make cuts that would affect students. So the same budget was submitted for a second referendum.

I am a member of the BOE but am writing today as an individual, not on behalf of the board. I was dismayed to learn that members of the public felt that the board disrespected the voters by putting forth the same budget. I was uncomfortable with the small voter turnout. Across all three towns, the total population is approximately 15,000, with 12,000 registered voters. But only 622 people voted, or 5% of registered voters. That doesn’t seem like a reliable indication of how the people of the towns viewed the budget. Indeed, the budget passed with the second referendum.

Next year, please vote. More people voting is more feedback, regardless of the outcome. Get your spouse to vote, your children, and your neighbors. The referendum is held on the first Tuesday of May.

Jennifer Clark Ivoryton

Jennifer Clark is a member of the Region 4 Board of Education

Ivoryton Playhouse Receives Anniversary Grant From Essex Bank

Essex Bank awarded its July $1,851 pop-up grant to the historic Ivoryton Playhouse as part of its yearlong 175th anniversary community giving campaign.

The monthly grants match the year of Essex Bank’s founding. This latest gift supports local arts and culture along the Connecticut shoreline.

“We are proud to support the Ivoryton Playhouse and the world-class theater they bring to our community,” said Diane Arnold, president and CEO of Essex Bank. “Supporting our cultural landmarks is a great way to celebrate the generations of relationships that have shaped our bank over the last 175 years.”

The Ivoryton Playhouse, one of the old-

est continuously operating summer theaters in the nation, provides year-round professional performances, community events, and youth educational programs. Essex Bank will continue awarding monthly pop-up grants to nonprofit organizations through the remainder of 2026.

Essex Bank, founded in 1851, provides financial services through six branch locations, Essex Trust, and its wholly owned subsidiary, Essex Financial. Through its Community Investment Program, the bank donates up to 10% of its after-tax net income each year to nonprofit organizations and community development projects. Essex Bank also has received numerous awards, including Best of the Shoreline recognition, and is rated a fivestar institution by BauerFinancial.

Spaces are available for the annual Deep River Congregational Church Flea Market on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event features 20-by-20-foot vendor spaces available for $35. For more information or to obtain a reservation form and map, contact the church office at 860-526-5045 or officedrcc@deep rivercc.org, or visit deeprivercc.org, where reservation forms are also available for download. Spaces Available at Annual Deep

River Congregational Church Flea Market

Press Release from Essex Bank

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor Ext. 6141

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Alicia Gomez Assistant Editor

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Eric O’Connell Staff Reporter

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Aaron Rubin Staff Reporter

Editorial Staff

Obituaries

Obituary

Robert Alan Ellis

Madison

Robert Alan "Bob" Ellis, of Madison, was born Sept. 20, 1944, in Swampscott, Mass., which is where he lived throughout his childhood. He received his bachelor’s degree in education from Salem State College before moving to Connecticut to pursue his teaching and coaching career. He taught at Guilford High School, Branford High School, and Daniel Hand High School in Madison, finishing off at Dr. Robert H. Brown Middle School, also in Madison. He taught for 37 years before retiring. When Bob retired from teaching, he worked a part-time office job where he made many friends. He enjoyed the mini vacations to Lake George they took together as a work family.

cer at the high school level. He also coached his children in these sports as they grew up. His favorite team was whatever team his children were on, followed by all the Boston sports teams.

He loved sports, playing golf, bowling, and watching John Wayne movies. He loved spending time with his family and adored his two granddaughters.

Contacting Valley Courier

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

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

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

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

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

One of Bob’s greatest passions in life was coaching. He was so grateful for the opportunity to coach. He coached baseball, boys’ and girls’ basketball, and soc-

Bob passed away June 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his parents, Herbert and Virginia Ellis; and his sister, Sandra Ellis. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Loretta Ellis, of Madison; sons, Alan Ellis and David Ellis, of Branford; his daughter, Sarah Enos, and her husband, Steve Enos, and their daughters, Rylie and Taylor, of Beverly, Mass.; his sister, Karen Castleman, and brother-in-law, Marc Castleman, of Hamilton, Mass.; his brother, Richard Ellis, and his sister-in-law, Susan Ellis, of Woodstock, Ga.; along with many nieces and nephews.

A memorial Mass will be held at noon Saturday, Aug. 29, at St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison.

Chester Hose Co. Auxiliary Seeks New Members

The Chester Hose Co. Auxiliary is seeking new members from the community. Active since before 1971, the auxiliary assists the Chester Hose Company during major fires, severe accidents, and weather emergencies by providing food, hydration, and support for emergency personnel and residents. The auxiliary also helps with fundraisers, including the Chester Fair grinder booth and Christmas wreath sale, and hosts community events such as the Easter Egg Hunt and Apple Pie Night. Membership is open to men and women interested in serving the community and supporting local emergency responders. For more information, contact Charlene Janecek at 860-575-0063 or c.janecek@aol.com.

Find Obituaries

Posted Daily Online

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

Four concerts of world-class chamber music

August 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2026 Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at The Kate

See Obituaries page 6

Celebrating Years!

Essex Bank is conducting a 175th Anniversary Sweepstakes to celebrate its 175th birthday. Beginning August 1, 2026, entries will be accepted for three weekly $175 sweepstakes drawings at each Essex Bank branch, with drawings beginning August 12, 2026. In honor of Essex Bank’s founding year, on September 2, 2026, a final drawing will be for one grand prize of $1,851. Entries for the $175 branch drawings and the $1,851 grand prize drawing will be accepted as described in the Official Sweepstakes Rules.

Continued from page 5

Obituary Williiam Benner Jr.

Essex

August 19, 2026 $175

August 26, 2026

Entries received between 8/1/26 through 8/7/26 by 5:00 pm Eastern Time

Entries received between 8/1/26 through 8/14/26 by 5:00 pm Eastern Time

through 8/21/26 by 5:00 pm Eastern Time

All eligible entries from $175 branch-level drawings will automatically be entered in the grand prize drawing. New entries from individuals not previously entered in any drawing accepted from 8/22/26 through 5:00 pm ET on 8/28/26.

Essex, 35 Plains Road, 860-767-2573 • Essex, 9 Main Street, 860-767-8238 Chester, 203 Middlesex Avenue, 860-526-0000 • Madison, 99 Durham Road, 203-318-8611 Old Lyme, 101 Halls Road, 860-434-1646 • Old Saybrook, 155 Main Street, 860-388-3543 Toll-Free: 877-377-3922 • www.essex.bank

Member FDIC NMLS#440436 Equal Housing Lender

William R. “Bill” Benner Jr., 88, passed away peacefully Jan. 9, 2026, in Essex. Born Feb. 25, 1937, in West Chester, Pa., he was predeceased by his parents, William R. Benner Sr. and Elisabeth “Sis” Belfield Benner, and his sister, Betsy B. Benner. He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Millicent “Mimi” Benner; his daughters, Stacy Benner Lendrim and Jennifer Benner Gavin (Jim); his stepdaughters, Pam F. Christianson (Bill), Brooke Freeman, and Kimberly F. Gilhool (Frank); nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Wilmington, Del., before joining Pratt & Whitney Aircraft in Connecticut, contributing to advanced engine programs for commercial and military aviation, including the F-15 and F-16.

He earned his master's degree in engineering from the University of Hartford while working full time.

A lifelong sailor, Bill was a longtime member of the Essex Yacht Club, where he was recognized in 2024 as the club's oldest member, and he served as commodore of the Hamburg Yacht Club in Old Lyme. He spent many years frostbiting on the Connecticut River and in Hamburg Cove and enjoyed cruising Long Island Sound with friends, visiting Nantucket, Fishers Island, Newport, and Block Island.

Bill attended the University of Vermont, participating in ROTC and Sigma Nu Fraternity, and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. After eyesight limitations ended his pilot training at Altus Air Force Base, he redirected his career to engineering. He worked for DuPont in

Bill and Mimi made their home in Fenwick, where he was active in the community, involved with St. Mary'sby-the-Sea, and supportive of environmental and maritime initiatives.

A small graveside service will be held for the family. To share a memory of Bill or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements

Deep River Town Meetings Televised and Online

Deep River town government meetings are televised on Comcast Channel 19 on Sundays at 6 p.m. and are available online at www.deepriverct.us. Meetings of the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance plus occasional special town meetings are recorded on Tuesdays and broadcast the following Sunday. For more information, visit www.deepriverct.us.

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF ESSEX

By the authority of the State of Connecticut, I have received a Tax Warrant to collect taxes due the Town of Essex on the Grand List of October 1, 2025. All persons whose names are in the 2025 Grand List are hereby notified and liable to pay tax to the Town of Essex, with the first installment due and payable on the 1st day of July 2026. Failure to make payment on or before the 3rd day of August 2026, will be subject to an interest charge of one and one half percent (1½%) per month from the due date of July 1st (18% annually), with a minimum charge of $2.00 per bill. Failure to receive a tax bill does not invalidate the tax or interest due if paid late. Contact the Tax Collector’s Office if your bill is not received. Motor vehicle taxes are based on Ownership as of October 1, 2025.

***IF YOUR MORTGAGE IS ESCROWED, YOUR PHYSICAL TAX BILL WILL BE MAILED TO THE BANK ***

TOWN HALL HOURS – Monday-Friday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE, YOU MAY PAY ONLINE OR MAIL IN YOUR PAYMENT

Megan Haskins Tax Collector

Brien Riedell: History’s Teacher

questions, which is how I gained experience for the tours I do now.”

Along the way, Brien has accumulated countless stories about Essex.

He explains how the village became the shipbuilding center of the lower Connecticut River Valley, where the Oliver Cromwell was built during the Revolutionary War and where 25 ships were burned during the British raid of 1814.

He points out the Griswold Inn, one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, and tells visitors how Essex later became the nation’s center for manufacturing double-twisted auger bits after a local inventor developed the labor-saving tool.

The village’s architecture also tells its own story.

“Our town has federal buildings, Greek and Egyptian revivals, colonial and Georgian houses, all of which are on one street,” Brien says. “They all live in a copasetic way together in the same town.”

The tours have become popular with residents and visitors alike.

Tours are held on the last Saturday of each month, beginning at 5 p.m. Participants meet at the foot of Main Street near the Connecticut River Museum. Admission is $10, while members of the Essex Historical Society attend free.

“You do not need to bring anything with you,” Brien says, “just a historical imagination.”

His involvement with the Essex Historical Society extends well beyond the tours.

After moving to Essex in 2010 in search of a quieter place to live, Brien read a Courier article encouraging residents to volunteer.

“What made it a no-brainer for me was that it did not require experience,” he says.

“I wanted to get involved in the town and wanted to meet people.”

He started at the Pratt House Museum, eventually becoming a member of its leadership committee and compiling a 55page reference guide to help train new volunteers.

The guide incorporates presentations

“People love it,” Brien says. “When I talk about the history, architecture, how Essex Village grew and was maintained, and how poverty preserved the history in the homes of the village, that’s how you get a real look at the town.”

from experts on furniture styles, Native Americans in the Connecticut River Valley, slavery and other aspects of the museum’s history.

“I wanted to provide a basic tour guide so people weren’t overwhelmed,” he says.

Brien also serves on the town’s Ad Hoc Historic Preservation Study Committee, where he says he has enjoyed learning from longtime preservationists.

“I show up, listen and share what I can,” he says.

For the past two years, he also has volunteered at the Florence Griswold Museum, where his appreciation for Impressionist art has continued to grow.

“Being at the Florence Griswold Museum made me love this art more and gave it more depth for my understanding,” he says.

Whether he’s leading a walking tour, helping preserve historic buildings or introducing someone to a favorite painting, Brien says volunteering has given him an opportunity to keep doing what he has always enjoyed most: helping people discover something they didn’t know before.

Smitten With Kittens!

to adopt them online at www.forgotten felinesct.org.

Timmy, Kimmy, and Mocha are 11week-old sweethearts who are ready for new adventures in homes of their own. They were trapped with their mom in a condo complex, where she somehow took care of them with no food or shelter. These three siblings, one male and two females, are super friendly, playful, and affectionate. They exert a lot of energy chasing each other and playing with toys, and then cuddle up in a pile for a nap. Super sweet and affectionate, they are guaranteed to fill your life with unconditional love and endless entertainment. Come meet these amazing babies at our open house or apply

Find Your Match at Forgotten Felines

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

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF DEEP RIVER

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of the town of Deep River, that the first installment of Real Estate and Personal Property taxes on the Grand List of October 1, 2025, is due and payable on July 1, 2026. Motor Vehicle taxes are also due on July 1, 2025, in one installment.

If not paid on or before August 4, 2026 the installment becomes delinquent and subject to interest. (1.5% for each month or fraction thereof).

You may pay by mail. Please return payment coupon(s) with your payment. Checks should be made payable to: Town of Deep River. Mailing address is: PO Box 13, Deep River, CT 06417. Mail postmarked on or before August 4, 2026 will be considered an on-time payment. (US Postal Service postmark only) If you would like a receipt returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope. You may also pay online at www.deepriverct.us (fees apply)

As a matter of law, the taxpayer is liable to the town for the tax installment(s) as they become due and payable. Liability is not created by, nor dependent upon receipt of a tax bill. Therefore, failure to receive a bill does not relieve the taxpayer of the requirement to pay the statutorily required interest when a late payment is made.

Photo by Emily Burr

Story by Carol Andrecs

Shore Publishing regrets that several businesses were inadvertently omitted from the Clothing, Gifts & More section of our recent publication, The CT River Valley Guide. The complete and corrected listing is published below. We apologize for the mistake and any inconvenience it may have caused.

Clothing, Gifts, & More

CHESTER

Acoustic Music 4 Maple Street

ArteVistica Gallery, 191 Middlesex Avenue

Atmosphere Arch One Glass 51 Main Street

Blackkat Leather, 36 Main Street

Connecticut River Wine & Spirits, 191 Middlesex Avenue

Chester Package Store, 1 North Main Street

Dina Varano Gallery, 27 North Main Street

Good Gifts, 11 Main Street

Kaleidoscope, 56 Middlesex Avenue

Lark, 4 Water Street

Leif Nilsson Street Studio & Gallery, 1 Spring Street

Montgomery & Taggert, 26 Water Street

Pleased Pottery, 45 Main Street

The Space Gallery, 1 Main Street

The Studio, 5 West Main Street

The Wayfinder Society, 14 Main Street

West Main Street Studio,

1 West Main Street

Village Roots, 5 West Main Street

DEEP RIVER

Acer Gardens, 447 Winthrop Road

A&D Wallpaper & Home114 Main Street

Adam’s Hometown Market, 193 Main Street

Alan James Art Gallery, 112 Main Street

Anchor & Compass, 163 Main Street

Celebrations, 161 Main Street

Comics & Coffee, 497 Winthrop Road

Compass Rose, 4 River Street

Deep River Hardware, 4 Elm Street

Deep River Home 11 Union Street

Deep River Jewelry Design, 381 Main Street

Deep River Market, 383 Main Street

Enchanted Blooms, 169 Main Street

Face Arts Music, 448 Main Street

Fine Line Tattoo, 91 Main Street

G’s Treasures, 156 Main Street

High St. Antiques, 88 High Street

Nautical Needles- Eileen and Taylor, 500 MainStreet #6

Pet’s Choice, 155 Main Street

Pandemonium Thrift Shop, 112 West Elm Street

Pondside Kitchens & Hearth, 202 Main Street

RiverFire Glass, 500 Main Street

Shell & Bee Studio, 500 Main Street

Shore Discount Liquors, 211 Main Street

SoMA, Gift Shop, 500 Main Street

Village Herbery,14 Union Street

Walgreens, 180 Main Street

ESSEX

Blissful Beauty Day Spa, 6 Wildwood Medical Center, Essex

Bob’s Centerbrook Package Store, 33 Main Street, Centerbrook

Chequer Interiors, 11 Main Street, Essex

Clift’s Quality Meats, 88 Plains Road, Essex

Connecticut River Artisans, 55 Main Street, Essex

Connecticut River Museum- Gift Shop, 67 Main Street, Essex

Cortland Park, 23B Main Street, Essex

Covert Bridal, 3 South Main Street, Essex

DePaula Jewelers, 23 Main Street, Essex

Eliza B & Leather Man Ltd. Store, 59 Plains Road, Essex

Emmy’s On Main, 45 Main Street, Essex

Essex Duck, 51 Main Street, Essex

Essex Gift Shop, 136 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Essex Hardware Co., 3 Main Street, Centerbrook

Essex Mail Mart 33 Main Street Centerbrook

Essex Wine & Spirits, 125 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Grace & Haven, 23B Main Street, Essex

Gracie’s Corner Gifts, 43 Main Street, Essex

Goods & Curiosities Griswold Inn Store, 47 Main Street, Essex

Harley & Marley, 1 North Main Street, Essex

Haystacks, 21 Main Street, Essex

J. Alden Clothiers Men’s & Women’s, 17 Main Street, Essex

J. McLaughlin, 3 Main Street, Essex

Joy Chocolates, 5 North Main, Essex

Homeward, 7 North Main Street, Essex

Mariana’s Boutique & Gifts 45 main Street, Essex

Marshmallow Factory 1 North Main Street, Essex

Nutmeg Pharmacy, 40 Main Street, Centerbrook

Old Beautiful Antiques & Art, 2 Main Street Essex

One North Main, 1 Main Street, Essex

Port + Willow, 10 Main Street, Essex

Pough Interiors, 8 Main Street, Essex

The Hosting Company,104 Main Street, Ivoryton

The Little Shop, 8 Main Street, Essex

Pencil & Wool, 12 main Street, Essex

Prive-Swiss Spa, 10 Main Street, Essex

Puck’s Books, 55 Main Street, Essex

Riggio’s Garden Center, 136 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store, 61 Main Street, Essex

Talbots, 1 Essex Square, Essex

That’s the Spirit Shoppe, 18 Plains Road, Essex

The House of The Triple Moon, 1 North Main Street, Essex

The Hosting Company, 104 Main Street, Ivoryton

The RiverLane, 7 Main Street, Essex

The RiverLane Men’s Store, River 11 Main Street, Essex

Toys Ahoy! 43 Main Street, Essex

Verdigris Gallery, 1 North Main Street, Essex

Vintage Home Décor, 40 Main Street Centerbrook

Walgreens, 125 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Weekend Kitchen, 15 Main Street, Essex

Winsupply of Essex, 186 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Region 4 Eyes Changes, Public Feedback

through the first half of the upcoming school year before presenting recommendations to stakeholders, including parents in Chester, Deep River, and Essex, around the midpoint of the school year, White said.

Their work is being supported by consulting firm District Management Group, which is helping Region 4 develop a communication strategy “to make sure that as these conversations move forward, stakeholder voices are even more present in the discussion,” White said.

The district plans to gather public input through surveys, focus groups, and other opportunities for residents to share their thoughts with education and municipal leaders. White said the district is organizing those opportunities and will announce details once plans are finalized.

Ultimately, “by looking at each of the areas the task forces are looking at, by gathering a lot of feedback and input and data from the community, all of that information will be pulled together, and a recommendation or set of recommendations will be made to our broader community—our three member towns—about the future of all our schools,” White said.

He added, “The people who live in these three towns would ultimately be the final decision-makers as to what option or options make the most sense for our schools.”

The Governance Task Force has focused on how the district is organized and whether changes could improve oversight of resources and finances, White said.

The Finance Task Force is reviewing the district’s entire pre-K-12 system and examining how money is allocated across its five schools and budgets.

Both task forces also have examined how similar-sized regional school districts in Connecticut manage governance and finances to identify effective operating practices.

Because the task forces’ work overlaps, the information gathered by the Governance and Finance task forces will help inform the work of the Consolidation and Grade Configuration Task Force. White said that group is addressing declining enrollment across the district, with some school buildings operating at about 50% capacity or less.

Considering the financial and operational impact of that trend, White said there are “a lot of different options” and some “creative solutions” for the future use

of school buildings and grade configurations.

White called the Teaching and Learning Task Force the “most important” of the four.

“Because,” he said, “ultimately, whatever recommendation is made to our communities... teaching and learning absolutely has to be at the heart of those decisions.”

White said any future decisions must be guided by what residents, parents, and other stakeholders believe is most important for students.

He said that “once there’s clarity and consensus on that vision... that should guide all other decision-making and discussions” involving the remaining task forces.

The district expects to share more information about the task forces’ work later this year and learn what parents consider most important in their children’s education.

“I have every expectation that we’ll be receiving feedback on really what the community expectation is regarding the quality of our schools and what they wish to see continue, and perhaps areas that we can even improve at,” White said.

Shoreline’s Meyers Excels With Connecticut Whalers

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

Throughout the season, high school rugby players focus on helping their teams compete for conference and state championships. Along the way, a select group earns All-State recognition for their individual performances.

Those players come together to form the Connecticut Whalers All-Star team, and Shoreline Spartans standout Shane Meyers was among this year’s selections. The sophomore is one of the youngest players on the roster and has been one of its standout performers during the all-star season.

The Shoreline Spartans represent players from throughout the Shoreline Conference, including Madison and Guilford. Meyers said the opportunity to compete with the Connecticut Whalers has been a memorable experience.

The Whalers defeated the Upper State New York All-Star team, 36-0, New Jersey’s All-State team, 50-0, and the Lower State New York All-Star team, 78-0.

“It felt good, and I was excited for the

new experience where I knew I would get to practice and play with the best players in the state,” Meyers said. “It was easy with the first couple of games because New Jersey and New York came to Fairfield to play against us. When we played against the All-Star team from Massachusetts, the Free Jacks Academy, it was a fun and easy trip.”

Meyers said he has enjoyed playing alongside top players from across Connecticut while getting to know teammates from other programs. As one of the younger members of the squad, he said he has learned a great deal from the upperclassmen.

The starting lineup consists of Gerry Castro-Smith, Aidan Byrne, Sam Richardson, Teodoro Ballerino, Brenden Walsh, John Morris, Shane Meyers, Will Kelly, Tyler Derry, Owen Smith, Francisco Gomez, Aidan Macpherson, Jake Hoadley, Nicholas Martschenko and Santi Flynn.

The reserves are Wyatt Demmon, Elijah Jennings, Eric Jennings, Liam Donovan, Ben Zaccagnino, Mikah Israel, Thomas Hawkins, Noah Soucie, Blake Cortell and Jeremiah Duverce. The

coaches are Ben Brzoski, Austin Ryan and JT Smith.

“It was great to meet all-state players from their states and get to play against them. Our last game was amazing in that we got to play in a stadium,” he said. “I may not be the youngest kid on the team. There may be another 16-year-old or two, but it was great playing with the juniors and seniors because they had great skill. It was much more competitive rugby than I have ever played, and I loved the challenge.”

Meyers has just completed his 11th year of playing rugby. He was introduced to the sport by his father and coach, Mike Meyers, who started playing when he was 18. Rugby has become a family tradition, and Shane Meyers began playing at age 5.

This past season, Shane Meyers helped lead the Shoreline Spartans to the state quarterfinals, the furthest the program has advanced. He was also one of the team’s leading scorers and earned the Spartans’ Defensive Player of the Year award.

Mike Meyers said he is incredibly proud of his son’s growth as both a player and a person.

“I am insanely proud. I was on pins and needles just that he got nominated, and then he’s playing against seniors and he’s a sophomore. These kids going off to college and the fact that he not only made the team, but ended up starting on the allstate team,” Mike Meyers said. “It was eye-opening for him. I think he saw the potential of what could be and his world got a little bit bigger. I was really just happy to see all that and see him expand as a young man.”

As Shane Meyers prepares for next season, he will take on even more responsibility. In addition to returning as the team’s flanker, he will serve as one of the Spartans’ captains.

He said he is looking forward to the leadership role and plans to lead by example.

“I am excited to be captain of my high school team and believe I will take what I learned this last season and work on making our team the best we can be,” Shane Meyers said. “I believe I will lead by example with my tackling and the pace I bring to the game, but I also am pretty vocal and always encourage my teammates.”

Photo courtesy of Mike Meyer

Shane Meyer battles with Connecticut Whalers All-Star Rugby team. Shoreline Spartans Sophomore Shane Meyer earns All-State honors.

White Sox Fall to the Rangers, 4-2

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

Members considered the evening’s lowhumidity weather one of the top 10 days of the season, helping the league get back on schedule following the weather delays earlier this month. Play resumed Monday, but 10 members were unable to compete and only six substitutes were available, leaving four teams to use blind scores for absent players. A blind score is a calculated value assigned to a player based on that player’s handicap and average. The absences also affected team handicaps overall. The margin of victory in 38 games was five points or greater, with 15 games decided by handicap, a season high.

The top three teams all lost but remained first, second and third in the standings. The White Sox fell to the Rangers, 4-2; the Reds took advantage of double-digit handicaps to stop the Giants, 4-2; the Braves, without league scoring leader Frank Rausch, lost to the D’backs, 4½-1½; and the Marlins moved up the standings with a 5-1 win over the Orioles.

The White Sox and Rangers both used blind scores for their A players. Emily Taylor substituted for Rangers player Gerry Hines. The handicap favored the Rangers throughout the match, leaving the B and C players to decide the outcome of each game. In the two games featuring only the C players, the teams split. The Rangers won the two games featuring the B players. In the first B/C game, Rangers player John Durinick scored 36 points, but it was his double in the final box, along with the handicap, that secured a threepoint win. In the second, Bob Beckwith’s 31 points led to an easy White Sox victory. Durinick’s 114-point series led the B Division scorers.

Evan Pierce, in his second match of the season, substituted for Reds player Joe Heery. The handicap favored the Reds in all six games, four of them by double digits. After tying the score in the fifth box, the Reds struggled but still managed to use the handicap to their advantage in game one. By the seventh box, the Giants had cut the handicap in half, and the Reds scored only four points the rest of the way in game two, giving the Giants the win. Even though the Giants’ Matt Valentin outscored the Reds in game three, the team could not overcome the handicap, and the Reds held on for a four-point victory. The Reds again used the handicap to win games four and six, each by six points. Game five was a repeat of game two, except the Giants overcame the handicap in the sixth box.

in the playoffs. Wins for the Braves would require help from teammates Mike Beckwith and Gary Haney. In game one, Haney’s points were enough to give the Braves a one-point victory. Butch Carotenuto and John O’Brien aided Sciacca in the D’backs’ wins in the next four games, including two victories in which they used their double-digit handicap. O’Brien’s season-best game of 32 points included a double in the last box of the final game, giving the team a tie and a 4½1½ victory. Sciacca’s season-best 123-point series ranked third among A Division scorers. Carotenuto also had a season-best series with 87 points. Although Sciacca lost to Rausch’s blind score by five points, he got his wish with the team victory. Beckwith’s 98-point series ranked third in the B Division, while Haney also posted a season-best 55 points.

Mike Zanelli Jr.’s Orioles fell victim to the blind score they used for absent player Ted Dubay. Even with the blind score, the maximum handicap in four games was only two points, with two favoring each team. Marlins player Leif Selander won game one as both Zanelli and Marlins player John Hutra matched their lowest scores of the season. Hutra’s 28 points in game two and Mike Shashok’s 28 points in game three led the Marlins to victories. Zanelli’s 33 points led to the Orioles’ lone win in game four. The Marlins won the final two games by double digits. Clean games by Hutra and Shashok in game five produced another double-digit victory, and Selander was the key in the final game. With the 5-1 win, the Marlins and Orioles swapped places in the standings. Zanelli and Hutra each finished with 101-point

This year, the annual game between the last two teams in the standings featured Bill Beckwith’s Red Sox and Jeremy Davis’ Dodgers. Since Week 4, they have traded last place six times. Entering the night, the Dodgers trailed the Red Sox by 1½ games. Whatever motivated them, they were determined, winning the first five games. Each Dodger won his individual matchup: Davis defeated Beckwith, 107-96, Beckwith’s season low; Hunter Beckwith topped Paul Stevens, 77-56; and Ralph Sampson scored 87 points to Jim Weselcouch’s 43. Sampson was the top C Division scorer. The Red Sox won the night’s final game by double digits but remained

Both the Rockies and Mets had substitutes for their C players: Tanner Steeves

See White Sox Fall page 13

Photo courtesy of Joseph Heery

Mark Goodale was the leading scorer this week with 155 points, 38 ringers and 8 doubles. He had the high score for the season from 2019 - 2022.

White Sox Fall to the Rangers, 4-2

for Sue Pollard’s Rockies and Kyle Sunderland, in his first match of the season, for Mark Goodale’s Mets. Often, a player will change the type of shoe he tosses in hopes of improving his game, but rarely does one change his release. For the past few years, Goodale has been dedicated to mastering the turn. While he has had some success, it has also brought frustration. This week, he returned to the flip. He led all scorers with 155 points, his best series since August 2022, when he was called “Le Machine.” Goodale scored 80 points as the Mets won the first two games by double digits. The Rockies responded by winning the next two. In game five, the Rockies did their best to counter Goodale’s 43 points with a late 14-point surge over the final two boxes but came up short by two points. Steeves and Warren Bellows each tossed a double in two of the final three boxes for the Rockies’ third win. With the split, the Rockies remained in fifth place.

Cody Layton substituted for Tigers player Sheryl Serviss, and Frank Durinick filled in for Pirates player Brian Walsh. Tigers player Dennis Goodrich tossed a four in the final box for the Tigers’ opening win. With Layton and Pirates player Skip Robinson matching scores, Tigers player Anthony Conkling led his team to a fourpoint victory. The Pirates won game three as both players on each team posted identical scores: the Tigers scored 19 points each, while the Pirates scored 20 each. The Tigers used their handicap to win the next game by three points despite clean games by Gary Stevens and Skip Robinson. The Pirates’ double-digit win in game five evened the match at 2½ wins apiece. The final game decided the winner. Fittingly, it came down to the last box: Pirates 3, Tigers 1, for a two-point Pirates victory.

They remained in fourth place. Stevens’ 87-point series tied for the top C Division score. The difference in total team points was 17, while the combined totals in the B/C matchup were identical: Tigers Conkling 86 and Goodrich 85 for 171; Pirates Durinick 84 and Stevens 87 for 171.

Cards player Kris Toohey single-handedly won game one against Tony Cutone’s Angels. The Angels evened the match by using their handicap to win game two. Cards player Todd Nuhn matched the Angels’ score in game three, allowing Todd Norton’s points to give the Cards the win. The Cards also won the next two games. Toohey overwhelmed the Angels with 46 points, 14 ringers and five doubles in game four, and Nuhn joined in for a double-digit victory in game five. Angels player Ed Turner outscored the Cards in the finale. The Cards won the match, 4-2, and moved within one-half game of eighth place, the final playoff spot. Toohey’s 154-point series was his best of the season and the secondhighest A Division score, while Nuhn’s 99point series ranked second in the B Division.

Cubs player Bob Cifaldi’s 42 points led to a double-digit victory over Dennis Allen’s Yankees. The Yankees responded with their own double-digit win in game two. In game three, it was the Cubs’ turn as Scott Allen and Peter Lessard stunned the Yankees by 20 points. The Yankees used their handicap to win game four and even the match. Allen and Vinny Jonynas each scored 25 points in a three-point victory. The final game would decide whether the Yankees would earn a much-needed win or the teams would split. With the game tied entering the final box, the Yankees held the advantage thanks to their two-point handicap. The Cubs outscored the Yankees, 4-0, in the final box to win by two, and the match ended in a 3-3 tie.

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By Susan Cornell

Special to Living

New Summer on the Block Brings New Hotels, Restaurants, and Experiences

Block Island is my favorite place in the universe. I didn’t think this paradise should change much or could be improved upon, but I now stand corrected. Block Island, also known as BI or simply Block, has new lodging, new restaurants, and new experiences ranging from low-key to true adventures, and they make the island even more special.

Block Island is close — 12 miles from the mainland — so you may not think of it as a “Postcards from Afar” destination like Alaska or Italy. But because it’s offshore, the whole look and vibe are so different from those of the Nutmeg State that it feels like you’ve truly traveled to a faraway land.

But first, what’s the best way to get to Block? There’s the Block Island Express from New London (goblockisland.com). The crossing time is 80 to 90 minutes, and the current round-trip fare is $66.50, plus parking ($15 per day on-site, with additional parking at the Water Street Parking Garage). If you have more money and less time, New England Airlines (blockislands-airline.com) flies from Westerly to Block in only 12 minutes. Round-trip fare for adults is $164, and airport parking is fast and free. One recent change is that Fly The Whale, which began flying from Westerly in 2025, stopped regularly scheduled service in November.

The newest hotel is the Spring House in New Harbor, which features 10 custom, upscale suites with high-end furnishings, scenic views, private baths, air conditioning, and a spa. It’s a fresh and elegant addition for adult guests seeking a modern stay. My husband and I spent one midweek night in a spacious, although expensive, partial-harbor-view room.

A complimentary shuttle runs every hour to the Spring House

Abrams Animal Farm has evolved from a small petting zoo into one of Block Island's most popular family attractions.

Hotel and Town Beach. Made-toorder breakfast is included and delicious. We started with croissants, breads, and a fruit platter, followed by brioche French toast, a vegetable omelet, and about a pound of bacon.

Other recent lodging options include The Gothic at Block

Island Beach Hotel, the Eureka Hotel, part of the 1661 Resort collection, and Block Island Bunk House. The Spring House in New Harbor won’t be the newest for long, though, as groundbreaking took place in May for the new Harborside Inn. The original inn burned down in 2023. The rebuilt

inn is targeted to open in summer 2027.

Block Island often has a reputation for having little to do, with the exception of going to the beach, hiking, biking, riding mopeds, and drinking mudslides. It’s true that BI isn’t Ibiza or the Jersey Shore, but there’s much

more to do than that — and much more than there was just a year ago.

The Block Island Electric Bike Company, for example, now offers e-bike delivery service from Point Judith. While you may have seen

See New Summer page 20

Photo by Bob and Susan Cornell

Photo by Bob and Susan Cornell New England Airlines offers a 12-minute flight between Westerly, Rhode Island, and Block Island.

An aerial view showcases Block Island's dramatic bluffs, open spaces, and miles of protected coastline.

Photo by Bob and Susan Cornell

Susan and Bob Cornell explore Block Island aboard an electric eMoke, one of the island's newest transportation options, outside the Spring House in New Harbor.

Continued from page 19

New Summer on the Block Brings New Hotels, Restaurants, and Experiences

its e-bikes on the island over the past couple of years, shipping them to the island is brand-new and perfect for those taking the ferry from New London or flying from Westerly.

We rented e-bikes for a full day. The customer service was stellar, delivery and pickup were a cinch, and everything rolled and rode perfectly. Among the pluses of ebikes is the ability to take them where mopeds are not allowed, including down many bumpy and dusty dirt roads that lead directly to our favorite trails.

For many visitors, e-bikes make sense because they don’t have to walk everywhere or deal with less environmentally friendly and more expensive alternatives. E-bikes are also safer and quieter than mopeds, which makes for a more peaceful island.

The price per bike is $100 and includes a helmet, lock, and bag for belongings. By comparison, the advertised rate for mopeds on the island is $115 for just four hours. For more information, visit blockislandebike.com.

On the topic of electric transportation, eMokes are another new option. An eMoke is a modern, electric, open-air recreational vehicle inspired by the 1960s Mini Moke. They seat four and are a fun option for cruising around without a traditional car. Even topping out at 25 mph, we covered all four corners of the island — probably a total of 35 miles — in three hours and felt like we accomplished a lot. We usually try to walk everywhere, so the eMoke was like getting a week’s worth of sightseeing into a brief period of time, while still allowing for stops to hike and have lunch.

We hadn’t been in a Moke since our honeymoon on St. Kitts in 1988, so this eMoke was a perfect trip down memory lane. Except for going electric, the Moke looks pretty much the same as it did in the ’80s.

Another update for those renting transportation: The Moped Man and Old Harbour Bike and Moped are now operating under one name, Island Rentals. The cost to rent an eMoke is $100 per hour, with a three-hour maximum. For information on eMokes, cars, golf carts, and bicycles, visit rentalsblockisland.com.

Block has an extensive network of Greenway trails — more than 28 miles of interconnected walking paths that are open free of charge. These trails wind through conserved land, offering meadows,

coastal bluffs, rolling hills, wildlife, ponds, stone walls, and ocean views. They connect preserves and range from easy to moderate, making them suitable for most hikers. No bikes are allowed.

For those who would like to explore the trails on foot, the new Block Island Greenway Guide can help with previewing and planning. The series includes 10 video guides covering 11 of the island’s best trails, complete with maps, tips, and stories. To access the guide, visit blockislandinfo.com, click on “Things to Do,” and then click on “Greenway Trail Guide.”

You can also buy a detailed trail map at The Nature Conservancy on High Street. PDF versions are available online at natureblockisland.org.

If you’d prefer to be driven while gaining a better understanding of the history and culture of this special island, Peter Pan Taxi Service offers Historical Island Tours. During the 75-minute excursion, which can be booked in advance, the history-loving driver visits some of the island’s most beautiful spots, with stops at both lighthouses for photos.

Private tours are $100 for the first four people, with each additional person costing $10. For more information or to book a tour, visit blockislandtours.com.

For extra credit in history, the Block Island Historical Society (blockislandhistoricalsociety.org) always seems to have new offerings and exhibits. Likewise, the Block Island Maritime Institute (blockislandmaritime.org) always has something new going on.

We make sure to stop by Abrams Animal Farm each time we visit. When we first started visiting the farm, set on a hill-

side meadow on Spring Street, 30 years ago, Abrams was just a small hobby farm and petting zoo. Today, it features a diverse collection of exotic and domestic animals, including camels, emus, yaks, pygmy goats, donkeys, sheep, pigs, tortoises, and my favorite, a West Highland “coo.” The additions from last year to this year are remarkable.

The newest restaurant is Wetherbee’s Pizza and Bar, located in the space formerly occupied by Club Soda. Wetherbee’s is a family-friendly, year-round pizzeria and sports bar with games including pool, foosball, and darts. There are six televisions inside, as well as outdoor dining.

Both the food and service were excellent. The steak-and-cheese grinder is the most popular sandwich on the menu, so we ordered that, along with Block Fries — fries topped with melted pizza cheese and bacon — and a gigantic chocolate chip cookie. It was served hot and could have fed four, but it was just too good. The pizza looked amazing, so we will try it next time.

Our waitress, Katie, worked there for years when the restaurant was Club Soda and “kind of came with the building” when Wetherbee’s was born in March. Her day job is assistant harbormaster, so she has lots of great stories.

The artwork consists of historic murals painted by Holden Wetherbee in the late 1940s. Wetherbee was part of the Greenwich Village scene and spent several summers on Block. He traded his paintings for room, board, and drinks at the Highview Inn, the building where Wetherbee’s is now located.

A large mural depicting postwar island life stretches around the four walls of the basement bar. Other works depict scenes

such as swordfishing. The new owner deliberately preserved the murals, which has been a big hit with locals. For menus and a feel for the artwork and atmosphere, visit wetherbeesbi.com.

Traveling from “America” to the destination known as the “Bermuda of the North” takes only 12 minutes by air or just over an hour by ferry, making Block Island significantly more accessible than many other vacation spots while offering comparable beauty and recreational opportunities. Cheers to an even better island time.

Photo by Bob and Susan Cornell

Made-to-order breakfast, including brioche French toast with fresh berries, is included with a stay at the Spring House.

The Spring House in New Harbor recently expanded with 10 upscale suites offering a modern lodging option for adult guests.

Photo by Bob and Susan Cornell Wetherbee's Pizza and Bar occupies the former Club Soda location and features historic murals preserved from the building's past.

Photo by Bob and Susan Cornell

The steak-and-cheese grinder is among the most popular menu items at Wetherbee's Pizza and Bar.

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

THURSDAY, JULY 30

Thrifting Thursdays

: 9:30 a.m. to noon. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, 322 Main St., Old Saybrook. Program for students entering grades 7 to 12 exploring local thrift shops and cafes. Registration required. For info, contact 860-510-5050 or jessica.wood@oldsaybrookct.gov, or visit osyfs.org.

Party Pigs

: 2:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Features an interactive program with rescued, trained pigs. Learn about pig behavior, intelligence, and care, with opportunities to pet, interact with, and photograph the animals. All ages. No registration required. For info, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Teen Crafternoon: Air Dry Clay Animals

: 3 to 4 p.m.

Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Participants will create animal figures using air-dry clay. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

: Film Screening and Discussion

5:30 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, Johnson Community Room, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a preview screening of Amore nel Sannio (“Love in the Sannio”), a 30-minute fiction-documentary film by filmmakers Marylou and Jerome Bongiorno about the Sannio region of Italy. A discussion with the filmmakers (appearing virtually) and Maria Nuzzolillo will follow. Light refreshments served. Free. No registration required. For info, contact 203-379-7083 or Marianuzzolillo7@gmail.com.

Summer Nights @ APL: Matt Matthews Magic!

: 6 p.m.

Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a magic show with audience participation and instruction. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Library. Free. For info or to register (suggested), call 860395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Teen Craft Night

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features fluid painting and tie-dye projects for students in grades 7 and up. Snacks provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Beaded Plants

: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Drive. For teens. Participants will create a beaded potted plant. Supplies provided. For info or to register (required), call 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

Stony Creek Forum: Lecture and Ideas Series

: 7 p.m.

Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. New York Times bestselling author Amy Bloom discusses the writing life, her work, crime fiction, and her new mystery novel, . For info or to register, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.

Blunt Instrument

FRIDAY,

JULY 31

Music with Miss Jessica

: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Features an interactive music program led by Miss Jessica of the Community Music School for children ages 0 to 8 and their families. No registration required. For info, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day Featuring Kahlil Kwame Bell on Slapaphone

: 2 to 4 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a performance by percussionist Kahlil Kwame Bell centered on the slapaphone and other lesser-known musical instruments. Sponsored by the David J. Hughes Memorial Fund. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Food Group:

Cool Bean

: 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a story and snack-making program inspired by by Jory John for children ages 4 to 12. Children ages 4 to 8 must attend with an adult. Free. Registration required. For info, including allergens, or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Tweens Magic: The Gathering

: 5 to 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Features instruction and game play for the trading card game. Recommended for ages 9 and older. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Madison Beach Club Follies: Rockin Through the Eras

7:30 p.m. Madison Beach Club, 128 Island Ave., Madison. The 90th annual Madison Beach Club Follies features music and dance celebrating rock music through the decades. Tickets: $25 adults; $10 for children ages 13 and younger. For info, call the Madison Beach Club at 203245-2714.

Calendar for the Week of July 30, 2026

FRIDAY, JULY 31 THROUGH SUNDAY, AUG. 2

100th Middlesex and New Haven County 4-H Fair

: Fri-

SATURDAY, AUG. 1

Hand Quilting Demonstration

day, noon to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fairgrounds, Durham. Features home arts exhibits, livestock shows, tractor and livestock pulls, food vendors, and activities for all ages. Planned and organized by youth members of 4-H. Admission is free. Parking: $7. For info, visit 4-Hfair.org. : 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Features a hand quilting demonstration and an opportunity to try hand stitching a quilting pattern. Participants may join others quilting around a table in the tradition of early New England quilting circles. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/events.

Plant Bingo:

10 to 11:30 a.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Drive. Participants ages 10 and older will play bingo for a chance to win a plant. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), visit westbrooklibrary.org.

Closing Reception for

Walking Each Other Home: Exploring Where We Belong, and How We Find It

: 2 to

SUNDAY, AUG. 2

20th Annual Shoreline Jewish Festiva

4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Features artwork by 78 artists exploring themes of home, belonging, memory, and community. Free. For info, visit guilfordartcenter.org. l: Noon to 5 p.m. Guilford Green. Celebrates 250 years of Jewish life in the United States with live Jewish music, kosher food, a Jewish book sale, artists and craft vendors, and children's activities. Admission and entertainment are free. Food, crafts, books, and vendor items available for purchase. Hosted by Chabad of the Shoreline. For info or to register, visit ShorelineJewishFestival.com.

Dan Pugach Big Band with Special Guest Nicole Zuraitis

: 4 p.m. The Morgan School Auditorium, 71 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features a performance by the Dan Pugach Big Band with jazz vocalist and pianist Nicole Zuraitis. Free. Tickets required. For info or tickets, visit georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com.

See page 24

Amore nel Sannio

The

Page Turners

FútbolIsLife! byCristoFernández,illustratedbyJames RaySanchez

This super-sweet bilingual picture book by the actor who played Dani Rojas on Ted Lasso is a partly biographical story of a boy who loves soccer but then suffers an injury that takes him out of the game. Each page features bright, happy illustrations, and the narrative is presented in both English and Spanish. Cristo’s infectious love of soccer and life shines through in this delightful book.

— Jen, Breakwater Books, Guilford

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.

The Hunger Games NoOneLeavestheManor byKellyMcWilliams

Helpless byJessicaKnoll

Dark, intense and seriously spicy, this is the type of book that can pull you right out of a reading slump. Part dark romance (emphasis on the dark), part thriller, it kept me completely captivated from the first page to the last. And that ending? It threw me for a loop and had me questioning everything.

— Tijae, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

The Inheritance Games — Heather, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Combine with , add some magical realism, set it in 1921, and you’ll get close to this book. Just when you think you’ve settled into the plot, the author throws in another twist, and you’re left wondering what exactly is happening here. Jump in and see if you can figure it out!

LoveYouMore byEmilyGiffin

In the blink of an eye, Billie’s perfectly planned life is turned upside down with one phone call. A promise made and a heart broken, now she must choose how to keep what she has without losing her past. With a twisty plot and an unexpected secret, this romance will have you reading all day!

— Terri, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Continued from page 22

Ornithography byJessicaRoux

New York Times bestselling illustrator

Jessica Roux renders 100 bird species in wondrous detail, pairing each with a concise exploration of its symbolism in folklore, mythology and history. This is a fantastically interesting compendium of all things birds, perfect for gifting or your own personal library.

— Christine, The Griswold Inn Goods & Curiosities, Essex

TheForestBecomesHer byJulieCarrickDalton

When an ancient forest is demolished to create a housing development, three women — eco-warriors from different generations — band together to save the one remaining oak tree. This book makes a powerful statement about our connection and responsibility to the land, with a nod to the Transcendentalists of the 19th century.

— Marilyn, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

ManOverboard! byKathleenRooney

Of course there’s a shark encounter — Kevin is lost at sea! A great summer beach read told with wit and humor as we watch Kevin swim with the tide and tread the memories in his mind to make sense of his life, his choices and his ultimate survival. If you’re traveling with family, questioning that decision and wondering if there’s a way out, this is your what-not-to-do guide! It will keep you laughing and guessing until the end.

— Jen,

R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

AFoundingMother byStephanieDrayandLauraKamoie

New York Times

These two bestselling authors deliver another outstanding historical novel, this time about Abigail Adams, wife of President John Adams and mother to another president. It is an intimate portrayal of the difficult times she had to endure and overcome while raising her children in Boston during the Revolutionary War, often alone. Dray and Kamoie’s writing style is exquisite, as this book reads more like a thrilling pageturner than a history lesson, yet I learned so much from reading it! This is a mustread book as America celebrates its 250th anniversary, and in Abigail’s words, to “remember the ladies” who helped create our country.

— Christine, The Griswold Inn Goods & Curiosities, Essex

Kids Market to Debut at All Things Killingworth Picnic

Press Release from Killingworth Women's Organization

Young entrepreneurs will have a chance to showcase their creativity and business skills during the inaugural Kids Market at this year’s All Things Killingworth Picnic. The new attraction invites children ages 5 to 17 to operate their own small businesses, selling handmade crafts, artwork, baked goods, jewelry, slime, and other original products they create themselves. Part of a nationwide Kids Market program, the event gives participants hands-on experience with entrepreneurship, customer service, creativity, and money management in a supportive setting.

“The Kids Market is a wonderful way to encourage creativity, confidence, and entrepreneurship while giving young people the chance to experience what it feels like to build something of their own,” Jessie D’Amato Ford, cofounder of All Things Killingworth, said.

The Kids Market will be part of the All Things Killingworth Picnic from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Deer Lake Outdoor Center. The annual community event also features live music, food trucks, local vendors, nonprofit organizations, children’s activities, and entertainment.

Proceeds from the picnic benefit Deer Lake Outdoor Center summer day camp scholarships and the HaddamKillingworth Backpack Program, which provides nutritious weekend meals for local children.

Families interested in registering a young entrepreneur can find additional information at kidsmarkets.com/markets/killingworth.

Continued from page 21

MONDAY, AUG. 3

Outdoor Fun: Grades 3 and 4

: 1 to 5 p.m., Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, 322 Main St., Old Saybrook. Outdoor program featuring park exploration, trail activities, games, and more. Registration required. For info, visit osyfs.org.

TUESDAY,

AUG. 4

Baby and Me

: 10 a.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features songs, stories, and playtime for children from birth to 24 months. Siblings welcome. For info or to register (required), call 860669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Virtual Author Talk with Paula J. Johnson

: 2 p.m.

Online. Book:

: 3 to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features a Super Smash Bros. pizza party for teens. For info or to register (required), call 860-6692342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Monday Funday for Teens: Super Smash Bros Teen Volunteer Orientation

: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Orientation for students in grades 7 through 12 interested in volunteering at the library. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Art with Kristin

: 4 to 5:15 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Participants will create a watercolor ocean sunset and add a whale or other sea creature. For rising second- through sixth-graders. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Julia Child's Kitchen: The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space

. Features a virtual discussion with Smithsonian curator and public historian Paula J. Johnson. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Virtual Author Talk with Paula J. Johnson

: 2 p.m.

Online. Book:

Julia Child's Kitchen: The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space

. Features a virtual discussion with Smithsonian curator and public historian Paula J. Johnson. Hosted by Essex Library. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting Fun!

3 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a calligraphy workshop led by Debby Reelitz. Participants ages 7 to 18 will learn decorative handwriting techniques and create a project to take home. Supplies provided. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

: 3 p.m. Ivoryton Library, 106 Main St. Children and families will celebrate National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day by making mug recipes for chocolate chip cookies. For info or to register, call 860-767-1252 or visit ivorytonlibrary.org.

National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day Plant a Seed

: 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features a seed-themed story and activities presented by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Sponsored by the Clinton Land Conservation Trust. For rising kindergarten through fourth-graders. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Summer Movie Nite

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Families are invited to watch a movie in the Children's Room. Bring a beach blanket or cardboard "car." Popcorn provided. Movie title available from the library. For info or to register (required), call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Trivia Night:

6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features an evening of trivia. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

page 25

Photo courtesy of the Killingworth Women's Organization. Young entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to sell their handmade products during the inaugural Kids Market at the All Things Killingworth Picnic on Oct. 3 at Deer Lake Outdoor Center.

Handcrafted reproductions of 18th-century hats and accessories created by historical seamstress Emily Stringham will be featured during "Mantua-Maker and Milliner: An Exploration of Women's Trades in the 18th Century" at the Pardee-Morris House.

Emily Stringham, owner of At the Sign of the Golden Scissors, specializes in creating historically accurate clothing for museums and living-history sites and will present a program on women's trades during the American Revolution Aug. 16 at the PardeeMorris House.

Emily Stringham's reproduction of an 18th-century wide-brimmed hat demonstrates the craftsmanship and historical techniques she will discuss during her Aug. 16 program.

Historic Clothing Program Explores Women’s Trades During the American Revolution

seamstress and researcher Emily Stringham.

Visitors can step into the world of 18thcentury fashion and craftsmanship during a special program at the Pardee-Morris House on Sunday, Aug. 16.

Presented as part of the New Haven Museum’s NH250 series, “Mantua-Maker and Milliner: An Exploration of Women’s Trades in the 18th Century” runs from noon to 4 p.m. and features historical

Continued from page 24

From Before to Beyond Gala

Stringham will examine the femaledominated trades of gown making and millinery, explaining how women in New England created and wore clothing during the American Revolution. Visitors will have the opportunity to view handstitched reproductions of period gowns, caps, and accessories crafted using historical techniques.

: 6 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Celebrates Madison's bicentennial with dinner, live music, a silent auction, a one-night exhibit on the history of West Wharf, and presentation of the Madison Historical Society's inaugural Elizabeth Skinner Platt Citizenship Award to John and Melissa Mathers. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society. Tickets: $150; table for 10, $1,250. For info or tickets, contact 203-2454567 or office@madisonhistory.org, or visit madisonhistory.org.

A lifelong student of historical clothing, Stringham owns At the Sign of the Golden Scissors, which creates authentic period garments for museums and living-history sites throughout the United States and abroad. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history, is a member of the Costume Society of America, and regularly presents workshops and demonstrations on historic sewing and textiles.

The program is part of NH250, the New

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 5

Playdough Playdate

: 10:30 a.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features sensory play for ages 2 to 5. Siblings welcome. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Wellness Wednesday for Teens

: 11 a.m. to noon. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features guided meditation and gentle yoga for teens. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Haven Museum’s series commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary by exploring local stories from the Revolutionary era.

The Pardee-Morris House is located at 325 Lighthouse Road in New Haven. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Like a Wave We Break: Virtual Author Talk with Jane Marie Chen

: Noon. Essex Library, 33 West Ave., Essex. Virtual author talk with Jane Marie Chen about her memoir

Like a Wave We Break: Overcoming Burnout to Lead with Resilience and Alignment

. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Nutmeg Book Club

The Myth of Monsters: Medusa

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Book: by Katherine Marsh. Discussion of the 2027 Intermediate Nutmeg Book Award nominee followed by a related activity. For children entering grades 4 through 6. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 203-4538282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum Photo courtesy of the New Haven Museum

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

Sunset Walk Explores Trolley Trail, Local Conservation

The Branford Land Trust will host a guided evening walk along the Stony Creek Trolley Trail on Wednesday, Aug. 5, offering participants a chance to enjoy a sunset view while learning about the area’s history and conservation.

The walk begins at 6 p.m. at the Tilcon Road trailhead on the Pine Orchard end of

the Trolley Trail. Organizers note this is not the Stony Creek entrance to the trail. Tilcon Road, which extends east from Totoket Road, is unmarked.

The guided walk will highlight the trail’s tidal wetlands, osprey nesting platforms maintained by the Branford Land Trust, and the adjoining Goss Preserve and Vedder Preserve. The 15-acre Goss Preserve and the Vedder Preserve along

Pleasant Point Road offer sweeping views of Long Island Sound, the salt marsh, the Trolley Trail, and the Thimble Islands.

Along the way, participants will also learn about two women whose vision helped preserve these natural areas for future generations.

The route includes both level and hilly sections with rocky, uneven terrain. Those who prefer not to hike the hill may turn

around and return to the starting point on their own. The walk is open to all ages and will be held rain or shine. Dogs are not permitted.

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit branfordlandtrust.org or call the Branford Land Trust at 203-483-5263.

: 3:15 to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features openended arts and crafts activities. For rising kindergarten through fourth-graders. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

: 4 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St., Chester. Features an interactive circus performance with juggling, balancing, and acrobatic acts. Free. For info or to register (required), contact 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org.

: 4 to 6 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Certified fairy hair artistry will add up to five double strands of hair tinsel. Open to students entering grades 6 through 12. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

: 5 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features live birds presented by the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. Sponsored by the Clinton Land Conservation Trust. For rising kindergarten through sixth-graders. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Walk on the Stony Creek Trolley Trail

: 6 p.m.

Meet at the Tilcon Road trailhead at the Pine Orchard end of the Trolley Trail, Branford. Guided walk along the Trolley Trail with a sunset vista and information about the history of the trail and the women who helped preserve it. All ages welcome. Rain or shine. Free. For info, call 203-483-5263 or visit branfordlandtrust.org.

How Trade Restrictions Triggered the American Revolution

THURSDAY, AUG. 6

Thrifting Thursdays

Husky Buddy Readers

: 10 to 11 a.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Children may choose a book to read with a volunteer reader. For info, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Painting with Carol

Continued from page 25 See page 27

: 7 to 8 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Drive. For adults 18 and older. Features Thomas Truxes, professor emeritus of Irish Studies & History at New York University, discussing the chain of events that led to the American Revolution. For info or to register (required), call 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

: 10 to 11 a.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features stepby-step painting instruction. For rising fourth- through seventh-graders. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Photo by Clare Hambly.

Sunset colors reflect across the salt marshes bordering the Stony Creek Trolley Trail, one of the scenic stops featured during the Branford Land Trust's guided evening walk Aug. 5.

The Stony Creek Trolley Trail offers expansive views of the tidal marsh, Long Island Sound, and the Thimble Islands. The Branford Land Trust will lead a sunset walk along the trail on Aug. 5.

Press Release from the Branford Land Trust

Imagination Station

Matica Arts Circus Duo Performance

Fairy Hair

Birds Are Dinosaurs

Evening

Photography Exhibition Returns to New Haven IMAGES

Shoreline Arts Alliance’s annual Photography Competition and Exhibition returns Saturday, Aug. 8, through Sunday, Aug. 30, at Kehler Liddell Gallery in New Haven, showcasing the work of photographers from across Connecticut. IMAGES

Continued from page 26

Now in its 46th year, is recognized as Connecticut’s oldest statewide photography competition and exhibition. The juried show features photographs selected by a panel of three professional judges and highlights the work of photographers of all experience levels. The exhibition opens with a free public reception from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug.

: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Grove School Children's Theater Troupe presents a live performance based on the children's book . Approximately 15 to 20 minutes. All ages welcome. No registration required. For info, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

: 1 to 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features pizza, video games, yard games, and cupcake decorating. For rising fifth- through 12th-graders. For info or to register (required), call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Drive. Intended for ages 7 to 14. Participants will create a miniature terrarium. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-3996422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Drive. For teens. Participants will make ice cream with a variety of mix-ins. For info or to register (required), call 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

IMAGES 8. A gallery talk with juror Jessica Roscio is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16. Registration for both events is available through Shoreline Arts Alliance.

The exhibition will be on view through Sunday, Aug. 30. Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday at Kehler Liddell Gallery, 873 Whalley Ave., New Haven.

Shoreline Sailing Club Event

: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. For active singles ages 35 and older. Features information about the club's yearround sailing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and social activities. New members welcome. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

ONGOING EVENTS

Farmers Markets

Dudley Farm Farmers Market

: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 31. Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Features fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, handmade crafts, live music, children’s activities, and seasonal events. For info, email marketmanager@dudleyfarmfoundation.com or visit dudleyfarm.com.

Farmers Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds

: 4 to

7 p.m. Thursdays through October, weather permitting. Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. Features locally grown produce, baked goods, artisan breads, meats, seafood, fresh pasta, eggs, specialty foods, and Connecticut-made crafts. Rain or shine. For info, email farmersmarket@guilfordfair.org

Founded in 1981, IMAGES was created to encourage, recognize, and support Connecticut photographers while providing opportunities for artists to share their work with the public.

For more information or to register for exhibition events, visit shorelinearts.org or call Shoreline Arts Alliance at 203-4216739.

Madison Farmers Market

: 3 to 6 p.m. Fridays through Thanksgiving. Madison Town Green, Boston Post Road. Fresh produce, baked goods, meats, seafood, dairy products, flowers, prepared foods, and locally made products from Connecticut vendors. For info, visit madisonctfarmersmarket.com.

Old Saybrook Farmers Market

: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays through Oct. 28. 210 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features Connecticut-grown and Connecticut-made products from local farmers, food producers, and artisans. For info, visit the Old Saybrook Farmers Market on Facebook.

Stony Creek Farmers Market

: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1. Bayview Park, Thimble Island Rd., Stony Creek. Features a weekly market with local produce, baked goods, seafood, meats, crafts, live music, and family activities. For info, call 203-988-9335 or email shreichert@gmail.com, or visit scfarmersmarket.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.

Photo courtesy of Shoreline Arts Alliance

Photo courtesy of Shoreline Arts Alliance Photo courtesy of Shoreline Arts Alliance

by Tom Tabaczynski is among the photographs selected for this year's Photography Competition and Exhibition, on view Aug. 8-30 at Kehler Liddell Gallery in New Haven.

Cardinal IMAGES

Mary Griffen's is one of the juried works featured in the 46th annual Photography Competition and Exhibition presented by Shoreline Arts Alliance.

Final Bow IMAGES

Alan Berkson's will be on display during the 46th annual Photography Competition and Exhibition at Kehler Liddell Gallery in New Haven.

Red in Yellow IMAGES

Press Release from Shoreline Arts Alliance

The Day the Crayons Quit

Teen and Tween Pizza Scene

DIY Terrariums

Sweet Treat Night

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of July 30 - August 5

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

You’re pure rocket fuel this week, Aries. Charge ahead with all of your bold ideas. Your charisma is off the charts right now. Use it before your energy starts to wane.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Treat yourself to something delicious and expensive this week, Taurus. Just do not blame the cosmos when you get the receipt for this luxury.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Say yes to spontaneous plans this week, Gemini. Your brain is going a mile a minute, so you may need someone along for the ride to keep you grounded.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, right now home is your fortress, so create a welcoming space to relax and recharge. You may want to spend some time in the kitchen baking up something delicious.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

The spotlight is on you this week, Leo. Shine as brightly as you can, post that selfie and own the room you walk into. Be grateful to those who helped get you to the top.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

All of your organizational superpowers will be activated this week, Virgo. Tackle that messy drawer you have been putting off or conquer a chaotic schedule.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, romance and fun are in the air for you. Your charm level is very high this week, and you may have a lot of people circling in your orbit as a result.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you will dig out all of the secrets this week like a super sleuth. Although you are on the hunt for information, remember to keep these pursuits lighthearted.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Your adventure mode is engaged, Sagittarius. It’s time to book the trip, try an exotic dish or say something wild.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Reward yourself with something that makes you feel important, Capricorn. It may be different depending on the day, and only you know what you desire.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Someone is ready to hear any wild ideas you can come up with, Aquarius. Tap into any genius that arises in your brain and share it with your close crew.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

This week is about dreamy and magical vibes, Pisces. It’s the perfect time to create art, fall in love with a song or float through the week.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JULY 30

Seth Avett, Musician (46)

JULY 31

Joey King, Actress (27) AUGUST 1

Jason Momoa, Actor (47) AUGUST 2

J.D Vance, Vice President (42)

AUGUST 3

Tom Brady, Athlete (49) AUGUST 4

Meghan Markle, Duchess (45) AUGUST 5

Olivia Holt, Actress (29)

CLUES ACROSS

1. Egyptian bull god

5. Romanian monetary unit

8. Santa’s helper

11. Fictional Pink Floyd corporal

13. Sea eagle genus

14. Broad volcanic crater

15. Minneapolis suburb

16. Actual commercial worth (abbr.)

17. Exchange rate

18. Ethnic peoples in Guinea

20. Men’s fashion accessory

21. Craft material

22. Offerings

25. Early

30. Large room

31. Soviet Socialist Republic

32. One who hauls

33. Shorthand for accepting

38. Promotional materials

41. Loss of memory

43. One who beheads

45. Photographers

48. Small, rich sponge cake

49. White clerical vestment

50. Partner to “oohed”

55. Abba __, Israeli politician

56. Zero

57. Owl monkey genus

59. Lace bug genus

60. Mild expression of surprise

61. Storage devices

62. Keyboard key

63. Make a mistake

64. One-time Korean president

CLUES DOWN

1. Bridge building degree

2. Expression of sorrow or pity

3. Large, stocky, lizard

4. Rumanian river

5. Missive

6. Stout-bodied moths

7. Brings out

8. Bird of prey

9. King of Thebes

10. Cleaving tool

12. African antelope

14. Three are particularly famous

19. Satisfy

23. C. European river

24. Dictator

25. Portion of (abbr.)

26. The 17th letter of the Greek alphabet

27. Consume food

28. Woman (French)

29. Scrape or wear away by friction

34. Popular vegetable

35. Pacific Standard Time

36. Brazilian state capital

37. Paddle

39. Cause to become insane

40. Drier and flakier

41. Mimic

42. ESPN host Kimes

44. One who moseys

45. Secret political clique

46. Behind the stern of a ship

47. Supernatural force

48. Sanctuary in Orthodox churches

51. Swiss river

52. Grayish white

53. Engrave

54. UNC’s chief rival

58. Midway between south and southeast

Word Search

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

ON THE FARM WORD SEARCH

AGRICULTURE

AUTOMATIC CANAL CHANNELS

CONSERVATION CROPS DISTRIBUTION DRIP

EFFICIENCY FARMING FLOW

HYDRATION

MOISTURE PIPELINE PRESSURE

PUMP

RESERVOIR SATURATION

SOIL SPRAY

SPRINKLER SYSTEM VALVES WATER

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for July 23, 2026: STROKE

Word Search solution for July 23, 2026

Sweeping Waterviews to Essex Village

special: Architect-renovated Acorn Deck House · Sweeping South Cove & river views

construction · Walk to Turtle Creek Preserve · Chef’s kitchen with Wolf range Full whole-house renovation

Every home tells a story, and 5 Hemlock Drive’s is one of transformation. Perched high above South Cove with sweeping views across the Connecticut River to Essex Village beyond, this striking post-and-beam Acorn Deck House has been reimagined from top to bottom by its owner, a local architect, with no detail overlooked and no expense spared. Vaulted ceilings, walls of glass and skylights flood the open floor plan with light and water viewsEvery surface, system and finish has been renewed — new roof, siding and insulation, a rebuilt deck with glass railing, all-new bathrooms with custom vanities and Kohler fixtures, white oak floors and a standby generator — combining the soul of a mid-century modern classic with the comfort of a brand-new custom build. Set on nearly an acre just steps from the Turtle Creek Preserve trailhead and minutes from Essex Village, where the historic Griswold Inn, boutique shopping and marinas along the Connecticut River await, this is a rare opportunity to own a fully reimagined architectural gem in one of New England’s most celebrated small towns.

CHESTER

: Ferry Road LLC to Aschly A. and Daniel Daggett, $600,000 on July 9

: John B. and Adrienne S. Buckley to Alyssa M. Gambardella and Andre P B. Hodge, $695,000 on July 6

CLINTON

Suriel LLC to Gregg S. and Judith A. Dauria, $255,000 on July 8

: Erickson

Investments LLC to Cloudio Montoya, $749,900 on July 10

: Jason and Ashley Beeker to Ian P. and Linda M. Farrell, $630,000 on July 9

Donna Wheeler to Meredith Landau, $309,000 on July 6

: Brian M. and Jessica L. Norman to Kelley and Santiago Risatti, $625,000 on July 9

ESSEX

: Estate of Violante Roberto and Antonio Roberto to Carmen and Heather Saglimbeni, $439,900 on July 9

: Estate of Ruth M. Carnabuci and Thomas D. Stevenson to Henry C. and Priscilla C. Racki, $305,100 on July 10 : Estate of Joan East Geissler and Stephen J. Geissler to Joshua and Jamie Santiana, $534,999 on July 7

: Nicholas and Brittany Bellinger to Christopher Drexler, $460,000 on July 10

: Real estate transactions are published using publicly available records and are matters of public record. Listings are not removed in response to general privacy requests. Removal will only be considered in cases involving a documented and credible personal safety concern. Requests may be submitted to zip06@shorepublishing.com

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