Category Archives: Old Saybrook

Democrats Nominate Wisialowski to Challenge Five-Term Incumbent State Rep. Carney in 23rd District, Includes Lyme, Old Lyme—UPDATED

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Jane Wisialowski, pictured above, has been nominated by 23rd District Democrats to run for State Representative in November. She will face incumbent State Rep. Devin Carney in the election. Photo by Ian Ragavanis of Ian R. Photography.

OLD SAYBROOK/OLD LYME/LYME/WESTBROOK—On Wednesday, May 15, delegates representing the 23rd House District towns of Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook and part of Westbrook nominated Jane Wisialowski  as the Democratic candidate for their State Representative.  

A resident of Old Saybrook (OS) for 25 years, Wisialowski is a member of the OS Board of Education and an OS Parks & Recreation Commissioner. In addition to holding these elected positions, Wisialowski works as a professional conservator and fiduciary appointed by Connecticut probate judges to help individuals manage their financial and personal affairs.

She also currently serves as vice chair of the Old Saybrook Democratic Town Committee (DTC). 

In selecting her as the Democratic candidate for the Connecticut House of Representatives, District 23 delegates and area Democrats have praised Wisialowski for her long history of leadership and community service, and her commendable background in business development and care for families and individuals facing hardships.

“We are thrilled to put forward such a strong candidate to represent our district in Hartford,” said Old Lyme DTC Chair Kim Thompson.

She continued, “Jane has represented Democrats in important leadership positions in Old Saybrook and has a proven ability to connect with local voters. Her expansive professional network and sensitivity to issues facing seniors, women and families make her an excellent candidate for State Representative. We look forward to an exciting campaign season.”  

In announcing her plans to run for State Representative, Wisialowski said, “I have learned through my work the hardships that many seniors face and the positive role that government can play in easing  their burdens. I have learned through my own personal struggle to conceive the importance of IVF and a woman’s right to reproductive health care.”

She added, “I believe it is up to each of us to make our district the most thriving, equitable place it can be – one  whose natural beauty is protected; where children can grow up with access to all the best books and without fear of gun violence; where seniors can live out their lives in dignity in homes they can afford; and where women can always have access to the health care they want and need.” 

Wisialowski will run against five-term Republican incumbent Devin Carney in the November 2024 election.

She  lives in Old Saybrook with her husband Todd and their two sons.

Editor’s Note: This article is based on a press release issued by the Old Saybrook Democratic Town Committee.

Republicans Nominate State Rep. Devin Carney for Re-Election in 23rd District; Includes Lyme, Old Lyme

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State Rep. Devin Carney (R-23rd) has been endorsed by 23rd District Republicans as their candidate to seek re-election in the November election.

OLD SAYBROOK/OLD LYME/LYME/WESTBROOK—On Thursday, May 16, State Rep. Devin Carney (R-23rd) announced his unanimous endorsement from 23rd District Republicans.

In a convention held at the Vicki Duffy Pavilion in Old Saybrook, Carney received the nod from delegates from the district’s four communities: Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. 

Rep. Carney was first elected to serve the 23rd District in 2015. He is now seeking his sixth term in the position.

“I’ve always worked hard to put the people of the 23rd District first – above special interests and party interests,” said Carney, who in 2021 earned a national award for his bipartisan approach to legislating.

He continued, “To me, this is my responsibility as Representative. It is the honor of a lifetime to go  to Hartford to be the voice of our communities, and I look forward to spending this summer and fall to tell constituents about my work and listen to their concerns and ideas about how we can work together to make Connecticut a better state for everyone.” 

During his tenure, Rep. Carney has maintained a strong attendance record at the Capitol and has continued to be active in community events in all four towns of the 23rd district. Rep. Carney  has also been praised for his accessibility, bipartisanship, and work ethic during his tenure as State Representative.

He is also known for being a stalwart advocate for small towns and, in 2024, was given the “Town Crier Award” by the Connecticut Council of Small Towns for his legislative work. 

Rep. Carney serves in a leadership role within his caucus as the House Republican Policy Chair and also serves as the House Co-Chair of the bipartisan Future Caucus.

His committee assignments have put him at the center of many important policy debates at the Capitol. On the Transportation  Committee, he worked to improve safety on District roads and bridges and to improve operations at the DMV. On the Education Committee, Rep. Carney fought to give communities local control over education and to stop government mandates that can hurt children’s learning. 

“Our local public schools are a source of pride for our communities and the state should not be able to dictate what we teach or how we teach it,” said Carney. He added, “As long as I am State Representative, I will fight any measures that will weaken the quality and integrity of our education.”  

Serving on the Finance, Revenue, & Bonding Committee, Rep. Carney has focused on balancing the state budget, paying down debt, and growing the local economy and jobs. His involvement during the 2023 budget negotiations led to a reduction in taxes on pensions and retirement accounts.

“Improving affordability and opportunity in Connecticut and confidence in government are incredibly important to me and I will continue pushing policies to achieve these goals,” Rep. Carney concluded.

In addition to his legislative work, Rep. Carney works locally in finance and volunteers for many local organizations. He serves on the the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center Board of Trustees, on the board of Old Saybrook Senior Housing; he is a member of both the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary Club of Old Saybrook.

He was also recently appointed National Caucus of Environmental Legislators Board Treasurer.

Editor’s Note: This article is based on a press release issued by State Representative Devin Carney (R-23rd).

‘The Estuary’ Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary With Special Celebration, March 22; All Welcome

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OLD SAYBROOK—The Estuary, a pioneer in providing comprehensive senior services and a regional leader in the Meals on Wheels program, has announced Estuary Day, the first in a series of 50th Anniversary events. This significant milestone marks half a century of dedicated service, expansion, and commitment to the well-being of older adults in our community.

The celebratory event is set to take place on March 22, 2024, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, and is free and open to the public. RSVPs are required for planning purposes.

The community is invited to join in commemorating this landmark occasion. The afternoon will feature delicious food, live music, and a presentation on the history and impact of The Estuary. Heather Milardo, Director of Development and Outreach, says “This event is not only a celebration of past achievements but also an opportunity to look toward how we might impact the future of healthy aging in our area and to embrace the community we serve.”

Since its inception, The Estuary has become a beacon of hope and support for countless seniors, providing, not just meals, but a comprehensive array of wellness services designed to enhance the quality of life for our aging population. The Meals on Wheels service has been a cornerstone of The Estuary’s success, ensuring that no senior within its reach goes hungry. As a regional leader in senior services, The Estuary has continually adapted and expanded its health and wellness services to meet the evolving needs of the community.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 50 years of service to our community,” says Stan Mingione, Executive Director of The Estuary. “This anniversary is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, staff, and supporters. We are excited to share this momentous occasion with the community that has been integral to our story. We look forward to many more years of service and support.”

Don’t miss this special opportunity to celebrate, reflect, and look forward to the future with The Estuary.

For more information about the 50th Anniversary or to RSVP for the Estuary Day event, contact Heather Milardo at 860-388-1611 ext. 210, or visit www.yourestuary.org.

Editor’s Note: The Estuary is a regional non-profit senior center that serves nearly 2000 clients every year and provides over 100,000 meals through their nutrition program, which includes Meals on Wheels and Congregate Dining. This program is supported by the Senior Resources – Agency on Aging with Title III funds made available under the Older Americans Act.

Two Big Wins in One Week for Old Lyme Boys

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Wildcat senior Leland Hine scores two of his 16 points in the game against Westbrook. All photos by A. Hine.

WESTBROOK/OLD LYME — On Tuesday, Feb. 6, despite a challenging first half, Lyme-Old Lyme came back strong against the Westbrook Knights and dominated the second half. Ultimately, the Wildcats soundly defeated Westbrook 60-33.

The Old Lyme team wearing their away colors stands proud before the start of the game against Westbrook.

Senior Leland Hine scored a game-high 16 points for the Wildcats, closely followed by Charlie Sahadi with 15.

Wildcat senior Charlie Sahadi scores against Westbrook off an assist from his twin brother Eli.

Tyler Champagne netted 10 points for the Westbrook:Knights.

Senioe Charlie Sahadi (#10) approaches the hoop.

On Friday, Feb. 9, playing at home in what has traditionally been called ‘The Battle of the Bridge,’ Old Lyme crushed Old Saybrook 69-25.

Hine was again the top scorer in the game for the Wildcats with 21 points with Charlie Sahadi contributing 12 points

On-court action in the Old Lyme v. Old Saybrook game.

Wes Pereival was the Ram’s top scorer with 12 points.

Lyme-Old Lyme sophomore James Dahlke prepares to pass the ball in the game against Old Saybrook.

After both games, the Wildcat’s Conference record now stands at 10-4 with their overall record at11-5.

Old Lyme’s next game was scheduled Tuesday away at Coginchaug. It will be rescheduled since LOL Schools are closed tomorrow due to the weather.

State Rep. Carney Recognized for Advocacy on Behalf of Small Towns

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 State Representative Devin Carney (R-23rd) is presented with COST’s Town Crier Award by Paula Cofrancesco, COST President. Photo submitted.

HARTFORD/LYME/OLD LYME – In recognition of his work on behalf of Connecticut’s small towns, State Representative Devin Carney (R-23rd) has been named a recipient of the Connecticut Council of Small Towns’ (COST) Town Crier Award during their 2024 Town Meeting held Thursday, Feb. 8, at the Aqua Turf in Plantsville.

The award is given annually to legislators who have distinguished themselves as outstanding advocates on issues affecting Connecticut’s small towns.

“It is such an honor to be recognized by the Connecticut Council of Small Towns, an organization for which I have deep respect,” Rep. Carney said. “As the representative of four small towns [Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook and part of Westbrook], I believe communities like the ones I represent are the backbone of our state. With this award, I will continue to be a voice for local control of municipal government and education, mandate relief, and ensuring our towns are safe.”

During the award ceremony, Paula Cofrancesco, First Selectman of Bethany and COST’s President said “Rep. Carney has long been recognized as a legislator who reaches across party lines in a collaborative manner to address issues facing the state’s smaller communities, including finding solutions to the state’s waste management issues, supporting enhanced rail service, and stopping unfunded mandates that would impose costly administrative burdens on our communities. COST is honored to present our Town Crier Award to Rep. Carney for his tireless advocacy on behalf of the state’s small towns.”

Founded in 1975, The Connecticut Council of Small Towns (COST) is an advocacy organization committed to giving small towns a strong voice in the legislative process. Its members are Connecticut towns with populations of less than 35,000.

Other recipients, who also received awards at the event, included State Senator Ryan Fazio (R-36) and State Representative Pat Boyd (D-50). State Senator Cathy Osten (D-19) was unable to attend the event but is also scheduled to receive an award.