‘Planned Parenthood’, ‘Reproductive Equity’ Endorse Wisialowski for 23rd District

Jane Wisialowsi is the Democratic candidate for the 23rd District State Representative.

LYME/OLD LYME/OLD SAYBROOK/ – Leading reproductive rights organizations Planned Parenthood of Connecticut and Reproductive Equity Now have both endorsed Jane Wisialowski in her campaign for 23rd District State Representative (Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Old Lyme, and  Lyme).

These endorsements highlight Wisialowski’s commitment to reproductive rights and healthcare access. 

In a statement announcing the endorsement, Planned Parenthood said of Wisialowski, “We  are grateful that you have indicated that, as a legislator, you are willing to advocate for protecting  and expanding access to sexual and reproductive health and rights for all people.”

The statement added, “We are in an urgent moment and working together we can achieve our vision for a future where all people in Connecticut can realize the right to control their bodies, their lives, and their futures.” 

Reproductive Equity Now announced its endorsement in August: “The right to abortion, contraception, IVF, and all forms of reproductive health care are facing existential threats on the national stage,” president Rebecca Hart Holder said in a statement.

She continued, “Reproductive Equity Now is proud to endorse candidates who are ready to fight for reproductive equity and ensure that Connecticut remains a firewall for abortion access in post-Roe America.” 

“I am so proud to receive the endorsement of these two brave organizations that are on the front line in the fight for women’s reproductive freedom,” said Wisialowski.

She continued, “When elected, I will always fight to protect women’s reproductive  rights, access to contraception and IVF.”

Editor’s Note: This article is based on a press release issued by Jane Wisialowski’s Campaign Office.

Identities Announced of Victims from Labor Day Fatal Boat Accident in Old Saybrook

OLD SAYBROOK—On Saturday, state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) officials identified the bodies recovered on Friday, subsequent to the previous Monday’s tragic boating accident, as 25-year-old Ian Duchemin, of Oakdale, and 24-year-old Ryan Britagna, of Waterford..

On Wednesday, the DEEP had identified the body of 34-year-old Christopher Hallahan, of Westbrook. His services are scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 10. A fundraiser for his widow has been organized.

We extend our sincere condolences to all those impacted by this awful event.

One Dead, Two Missing After Old Saybrook Boat Accident Monday Night

OLD SAYBROOK—Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Environmental Conservation Police (EnCon Police) along with multiple agencies, responded to a boating accident in Old Saybrook around 9:15 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 2.

A single motorboat was found floating, half-submerged, near the Harbor One Marina in Old Saybrook. There was significant damage to the boat, which hit the east-facing jetty at the mouth of the CT River.

A total of nine people were on the boat. An adult male was recovered deceased, and six people were transported to the hospital. As of 1 a.m., two people were still being searched for. The search was suspended for the night shortly after 1 a.m., and resumed in the morning as, most likely, a recovery operation.

In addition to EnCon Police, several agencies assisted in the response to this incident, including- Old Lyme FD, Middletown FD, Middlesex Health (EMTs), Essex FD, Goshen Fire, Old Saybrook FD and PD, Clinton Fire, the Coast Guard, and the State Police Dive Unit.

Editor’s Note: This article is based on a press release issued by DEEP.com at 1:27 a.m. today.

Valley Shore Animal Welfare League Seeks New Members, Supporters; has Dogs, Cats Available for Adoption

Charlie. is looking for his forever home. Can you help?

WESTBROOK—Located on Horse Hill Road in Westbrook, Valley Shore Animal Welfare League (VSAWL) is a haven for four-legged friends and those looking to adopt them. At VSAWL both cats and dogs are sheltered and provided with necessary veterinary care and companionship.

A dedicated group of staff and volunteers care for the animals’ daily needs as well as maintain the building and grounds. The VSAWL cares for local animals as well as animals from other locations—particularly animals transported from the south.

The VSAWL is a no-kill shelter and a non-profit 501(c)3 organization.

Founded in 1972 by a group of concerned animal lovers, VSAWL and its all-woman crew sought to fill a gap and care for animals, who had no place else to go. These women dedicated themselves to the animals and the mission and have been helping animals at VSAWL ever since.

The VSAWL is currently undertaking an effort to refocus its energies so that services for its animals, volunteers and the community can be improved. 

Several new board members have been elected and the search is on to find more interested and energetic individuals, who can help to carry out the organization’s mission to provide refuge, care, companionship and adoption services. If you are interested in volunteering or joining the VSAWL board, contact the organization at 860-399-7561 or valleyshoreawl@gmail.com

The VSAWL is currently housing four adorable dogs, which are all looking for forever homes.

Willow.

Willow, the coonhound, is a one-year-old wild child—she enjoys walks, play-dates with other dogs and playing fetch. She is a good girl with lots to say and is interested in everything. Looking for an active friend, who has as much energy as she does. Willow is a little anxious, but that is hardly surprising considering her previous life. She would benefit from some training and is very quick to learn new tricks like “Sit” and “Leave.” She loves stuffed toys and would make a faithful forever friend.

Alice is a funny two-year-old terrier/Frenchie mix. She is about 50 lbs and absolutely adores new toys and blankets. She gets so excited and can hardly contain herself. She is so happy to see you and wants nothing more than pets and kisses. She is very active and gets the zoomies often. She loves walks, running, car-rides and sitting by your side. She is a special girl and a cozy friend.

Zoe.

Zoe is everyone’s best friend (except other pets – she wants to be your one and only .) She is a nine-year-old lab/pit mix. She is sweet and loving and wants nothing more than to play and get pets and love. Zoe is very excited to meet you but settles with reminders and pets. She is very friendly and most polite on a leash. She will make a steady friend, a sweet companion and a loving snuggle buddy for anyone who likes to snuggle back!

Charlie, a nine-year-old boxer, has been with us for a year and a half. He came to us in terrible shape – horrible ear infections and feet that were so swollen it was hard for him to walk. But he is doing much better now and is looking for a family to share his life with. Charlie is the definition of a big baby. He is shy at first but warms up quickly. He is a sweet and loving little couch-potato, who likes walks and warm beds. He is a staff/volunteer/vet favorite.

The VSAWL also has several cats and kittens that would love to make your acquaintance.

Cinder.

Among them is Cinder, who is 16-years-old. She is a sweet and bossy cat, who wants to be queen of the castle. She is interested in everything and will greet you at the door and follow you around until you give her attention. She likes to play in her water bowl and sample from every food bowl. She is a sweetie-pie and looking for a doting family with whom to share the rest of her life.  

If you would like to share your home with any of our pets, contact the VSAWL to set up an appointment to meet your potential new best friend.  

The VSAWL is always in need of supplies. If you are considering making a donation of specific items, access the VSAWL Amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1AOCDWKOX0F4K/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1.

The organization is completely funded by donors and always grateful for financial donations to help cover the cost of food, services and veterinary care for our animals. If you would like to make a monetary donation, Venmo VSAWL at @VSAWL1972 or visit their website at valleyshoreaninalwelfareleague.org to make a donation through PayPal. We also accept cash or checks at VSAWL, 64 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook, CT 06498.

To be added to the VSAWL mailing list, email Dottie Wells at drw214@gmail.com.

The VSAWL is grateful for all of the community members who are part of the VSAWL family as adopters, donors or volunteers.

‘The Estuary’ Celebrates 50 Years of Service with Fundraising Gala in September

OLD SAYBROOK/LYME/OLD LYME—In celebration of 50 years of dedicated service to the community, The Estuary is thrilled to announce a fundraising gala to be held on Sept. 28, 2024. The event will take place at the historic Essex Steam Train Station, located at 1 Railroad Ave. in Essex, from 6 to 10 p.m. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Meals on Wheels program.

The Estuary is a regional non-profit senior center that serves nearly 2000 clients every year offering an array of social, health, and wellness services and provides over 100,000 meals through their nutrition program, which includes Meals on Wheels and Congregate Dining. The Estuary‘s region includes both Lyme and Old Lyme.

The nutrition program is supported by the Senior Resources—Agency on Aging with Title III funds made available under the Older Americans Act.

This milestone event aims to commemorate half a century of providing essential senior services to those in need while raising much-needed funds to support the Meals on Wheels program which provides vital nutrition to homebound seniors. The gala promises an evening of elegance, filled with exceptional entertainment, gourmet dining, and heartfelt reflections on our past achievements and future goals.

The Estuary is honored to welcome Reynolds’ Subaru as the Special Guest Honoree for the evening. Reynolds’ Subaru has been a steadfast supporter of Meals on Wheels, contributing significantly to its initiatives and helping The Estuary reach more individuals in the community.

Attendees can look forward to a cocktail reception with live music, gourmet dinner, silent and live auctions with exclusive items and experiences, and inspiring speeches and presentations highlighting our impact over the past 50 years.

“We are incredibly proud of the work we have done over the past five decades and are excited to celebrate this milestone with our community,” said Stan Mingione, Executive Director of The Estuary. “This gala is not only a celebration of our past but also a crucial opportunity to support our future and the amazing people we serve every day.”

Tickets for the gala are available for purchase on The Estuary‘s website www.yourestuary.org. Early registration is encouraged to secure your spot at this memorable event.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, contact Heather Milardo at 860-388-1611 or development@yourestuary.org.