On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at approximately 12:05 PM, Eliseo Batz Donis, a 27-year-old Stratford resident, was arrested at Milford Superior Court on an active warrant. The warrant was issued following an investigation into a July 2024 incident on I-95 in Bridgeport, where Batz Donis fled a traffic stop after multiple 911 calls reported his erratic driving.
Batz Donis was arrested without incident and charged with several offenses, including reckless driving, disobeying an officer’s signal, engaging police in pursuit, misuse of registration plates, failure to maintain proper lane, improper turns without signaling, failure to renew registration, and operating a motor vehicle without insurance. He was held on a $50,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Bridgeport Superior Court on November 21, 2024. For further details, refer to the attached arrest warrant and criminal information summary.
NEGS, “Ebenezer” on Tap for Four Sundays in December
The Stratford Library will present a series of free, holiday concerts and a special theatre performance on consecutive Sunday afternoons in the Library’s Lovell Room. Seasonal favorites are on the menu for the series, which will be held on Sundays, December 1, 8, 15, and 22 at 2 pm. The afternoons are all free and open to the public.
The Bob Kolb Trio will kick off the series on December 1. The trio will play jazz interpretations of well-known holiday songs from “Home for the Holidays” to “Jingle Bells.” Long-time members of the Trio include David Childs on piano and Steve Roane on bass. Individually, they have played for or with Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nelson Riddle, Lionel Hampton, Diane Schurr, and many more.
Connecticut recording artist Joe Newman will follow at the Library on December 8. The singer/songwriter will play guitar with a synthesizer and a drum machine. He will also have a trumpet and saxophone player accompany him on some songs. Traditional Christmas tunes like “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” and “Silver Bells,” along with 50’s & 60’s songs including “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” “Let It Be Me,” and “Autumn Leaves,” will also be performed.
The series continues on December 15 with The New England Guitar Society. NEGS was established to create a nurturing environment for classical guitarists to meet, share ideas, perform, compose, teach, and grow as musicians. The NEGS goal is to increase public interest in classical guitar, ultimately creating future players and audiences. The Society was conceived in 2004 by guitarists James Baird, president, and Cem Duruöz, artistic director.
Concluding the holiday entertainment will be a special theatre event, “Elegy for Ebenezer” on December 22. Adapted by Douglas Moser of Northford, the tale returns to its Dickensian roots: a ghost story. An old, dying Ebenezer Scrooge, a stingy man, has never found redemption. As death nears, his faithful, disgruntled servant, Bee, plans on taking what she’s earned over years of caring for this miser before she is thrown out like the trash. As she’s looting his apartment, he asks her to tell him a story. Bee then spins a ghost story for the old man, reminding him of just what he’s come from. “Elegy for Ebenezer,” a tour de force for two actors, will feature Ted van Griethuysen of Stratford and Sarah Nuland (Hamden). Sad and uplifting, “Elegy for Ebenezer” finds the heart inside the pain, and the wonder in storytelling.
All events will be performed live in the Library Lovell Room. Seating is limited and seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Seating begins 30 minutes prior to start time. For further information, call the Library: 203.385.4162 or visit: www.stratfordlibrary.org.
Stratford, CT — The Stratford Board of Education, in collaboration with Mayor Laura R. Hoydick and the Town of Stratford, proudly announced the dedication of the Rubye Kinlow McNeil English and Literature Wing at Stratford High School.
This momentous event honors the life and legacy of Rubye Kinlow McNeil, an esteemed educator who taught in the Stratford school system for 32 years, leaving a lasting impact on countless students. One of the first Black female teachers in Stratford, Ms. McNeil began her career during the pre-Civil Rights era and served as a trailblazer for diversity and inclusion in education.
Ms. McNeil’s dedication to teaching was matched only by her commitment to inspiring young minds. Known for her creativity, leadership, and humanitarian spirit, she fostered a love for learning that resonated far beyond the classroom. Born in Dumas, Arkansas, she graduated from Agricultural, Mechanical, and Normal College with a degree in English before earning her master’s in education from Southern Connecticut State College.
The newly dedicated wing stands as a testament to her immeasurable contributions to Stratford High School and the community. The Rubye Kinlow McNeil English and Literature Wing features a commemorative plaque inscribed with the following tribute:
“Dedicated to the memory of Rubye Kinlow McNeil, a devoted teacher and mentor to the students of Stratford for 32 years. Her impact was immeasurable and enduring. The contributions she made to our school and town have left an indelible mark on all of us.”
The dedication is part of a broader effort to honor outstanding educators who have shaped the Stratford community. This $126 million Stratford High School project, the largest public school building initiative in Connecticut, underscores the town’s commitment to education and community enrichment.
The Stratford Library will host a special opera and writing event featuring Italian opera singer and poet Stefano Russo on Sunday, November 24, at 2 p.m. Russo, who previously impressed audiences during “National Poetry Month,” will perform opera selections alongside acclaimed pianist Jacob Wang, while friend Joe Naylor reads and discusses excerpts from Russo’s memoir, The Prisoner. The program is free and open to the public.
Born in Rome, Italy, Stefano Russo is an Italian American artist who moved to the U.S. in 2011. His career began with opera singing but evolved into a passion for writing, particularly poetry. He has published several collections, including Life, a Labyrinth of Thoughts and Beyond the Chains of the Mind, and released his memoir, The Prisoner, in 2024. Autographed copies of The Prisoner will be available for purchase after the performance. For more information, call the library at 203.385.4162 or visit www.stratfordlibrary.org.
November Storytimes The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers weekly storytimes for children at 10:30 am. On Mondays, Toddler Time meets for ages 0-2. On Tuesdays, Preschool Storytime meets for ages 3-5. Baby Lapsit meets on Thursdays for babies 0-18 months. Friday Fun offers stories and songs for ages 1-5. Enjoy early literacy activities and meet other families at Library storytimes! (No storytimes on Monday, Nov 11, Thursday, Nov 28, and Friday, Nov 29). Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Book Scientists The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers Book Scientist kits for children ages 3-12, with books and activities based on the child’s age. This month’s theme is Outer Space (Nov 15). Return the Library books when they are due and keep everything else! Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Super Mario Bros. Party The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. will host a Super Mario Bros. Party on Saturday, November 9 at 2:30 pm for children ages 6-10 in the Children’s program room. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Impressionist Painting Join the Stratford Library Children’s Dept. for an Impressionist art workshop on Wednesday, November 13 at 4 pm for children ages 8-13. Learn about the Impressionism art movement and create your own painting. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org.
Junior Scientists: Bones The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers a Junior Scientists Grab ‘n’ Go kit on the Skeletal System for families with children ages 4-8. Pickups begin on Thursday, November 14. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Kids Lego Robotics Club Join the Stratford Library Children’s Dept. for a Lego Robotics workshop on Thursday, November 14 at 2:00 pm for children ages 7-12. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Storytime with Little Teeth Dentists The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers a storytime with Little Teeth Dentists on Tuesday, November 19 at 10:30 am for ages 3-7. Learn about dental care in a fun storytime. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Fall Art: Collage The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers a Fall Art Collage program on Tuesday, November 19 at 4 pm for children ages 7-12. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Ready for Kindergarten Grab ‘n’ Go The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers Ready for Kindergarten grab ‘n’ go activity kits for ages 3-5. November kit pickup begins on Wednesday, November 20. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Learn to Crochet The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers beginner crochet lessons on Wednesday, November 20 at 6 pm for ages 9 and up. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Mini Foods Join the Stratford Library Children’s Dept. for Mini Foods on Thursday, November 21 at 4 pm for grades 5-7. Please note some food items may contain allergens. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Treefort Science: Lightboxes The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers Treefort Science activities on Friday, November 22 at 3:30 pm for ages 5-7, exploring Lightboxes. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Make Thanksgiving Cards for Seniors Celebrate the community with a drop-in craft event to make Thanksgiving Cards for seniors on Saturday, November 23 during Library hours. All ages are welcome. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Piano w/ Friends: Chords The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers a Piano with Friends: Chords class on Saturday, November 23 at 2:30 pm for ages 7-12. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Nutmeg Book Group The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers the Nutmeg Book Group for readers in grades 4-6. November’s book is Chester Keene Cracks the Code by Kekla Magoon. The discussion is on Monday, November 25 at 6 pm. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Science Club: Sink Or Float Join the Stratford Library Children’s Dept. Science Club for a Sink or Float activity on Tuesday, November 26 at 6 pm for ages 7-12. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
Math Grab ‘n’ Go: Addition The Stratford Library Children’s Dept. offers a Math grab’n’go kit on addition for ages 5-8. Pickups begin on Wednesday, November 27. Registration is required. To register, visit stratfordlibrary.org, then choose Events. For more information, call 203.385.4165 or visit stratfordlibrary.org/kids.
This time on Local Bites, I want to spotlight Gregory’s Pizza Family Restaurant. With over 20 years of experience in the kitchen, Greg has quickly made a name for himself in the area, especially for his seasonal Plum Tomato Pies—a true local favorite in August when tomatoes are at their peak. But Gregory’s menu goes far beyond pizza, with a diverse array of thoughtfully crafted dishes, including stuffed breads, calzones, grinders, stromboli, fresh salads, pasta, and more. Each item is made with the same level of dedication and quality as his celebrated pies, ensuring a standout experience no matter what you’re craving.
Today, I want to highlight a few standout dishes that showcase the variety and quality Gregory offers beyond his pizza menu: his Romaine Mix Salad, Pasta Creazione, and classic Spaghetti and Meatballs.
The Romaine Mix Salad features crisp romaine lettuce topped with grilled chicken, dried cranberries, and gorgonzola cheese, all served with a house Italian vinaigrette that perfectly complements the salad’s fresh, bold flavors. The portion of chicken on this salad is generous, with each piece tender, juicy, and cooked fresh to order. It’s seasoned with Gregory’s own house blend, adding a burst of flavor that ties the dish together.
Next, the Pasta Creazione is a delightful mix of penne pasta, crumbled sausage, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and cherry peppers, all tossed in a savory pesto sauce. This dish strikes a beautiful balance of flavors: the richness of the sausage and pesto forms a flavorful base, while the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes and the bright, slightly spicy notes from the cherry peppers add complexity and excitement with each bite.
Lastly, Gregory’s classic Spaghetti and Meatballs is a comforting staple done right. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, and you can taste the freshness of the ingredients in every bite. This dish is simplicity at its best, made with the same dedication to quality that defines Gregory’s entire menu.
In addition to dining in, Gregory’s also offers catering services, allowing you to bring his most-loved dishes to your next event. The catering menu includes favorites like homemade cavatelli with broccoli, garlic, and olive oil (with options for chicken or sausage), along with Italian classics like Chicken Francese, baked ziti, penne alla vodka, and sausage with peppers. For those looking to share Gregory’s quality and flavor with friends and family, his catering is an ideal choice.
First responders assisted a pickup truck that hit the side of a building taking down a row of bricks in the 2300 block of Barnum Avenue. No reported injuries. The building inspector has been called to investigate.
Stratford, CT — Edible Couture, a beloved bakery at 1400-1402 Barnum Avenue, proudly announces the grand opening of its brand-new event space. This elegant addition provides an inviting venue for small gatherings and celebrations, with a versatile layout that can accommodate up to 30 seated guests or 49 for standing events.
Founded by Letitia “Tisha” Hudson, Edible Couture has long been a cherished spot in the community, celebrated for its unique confections and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Now, with this expanded space, Edible Couture offers customers a fresh way to gather for special moments such as brunches, bridal showers, meetings, birthdays, and more.
“It’s a beautiful space for women to come and just relax and enjoy themselves,” said Hudson. “You can rent it out for events, birthday parties, bridal showers—you name it.”
The new event space, available for rentals, was created with an emphasis on elegance and comfort, featuring tasteful decor designed to cater primarily to women’s events while also providing a welcoming environment for all.
11/12, 11/19, 11/26: Peer Tutoring/Homework Helpers Are you struggling with class or homework assignments? Need help with math or writing that essay? The Library has high school volunteers ready to help you do your very best. Registration required so homework helpers can be scheduled. Call 203-385-4167 or email slateen@stratfordlibrary.org to schedule an appointment. Grades 5-8.
11/14, 3:30-5 pm: Decorate Your Holiday Cupcakes Decorate your own special holiday cupcakes! We have everything you need to decorate fun Thanksgiving cupcakes. Satisfy your sweet tooth eating your creation or bring your work of ‘sweet’ art home. We’ll also sample some cider and hot chocolate while we start gearing up our holiday spirit. Location: Teen Department. Grades 6-12. No registration; while supplies last.
11/18, 3-4 pm: Musical Painting You’ll start off painting your own masterpiece, but when the music stops you’ll have to swap your canvas with someone else! What will the paintings look like when the program is over? Location: Lovell Room. Grades 6-12. Registration required at: www.stratfordlibrary.org.
11/19, 3-4:30 pm: Teen Friendsgiving Party Teens celebrate friends old and new by playing games, eating food (did someone say pie?) and making crafts. Feel free to bring your own snacks to share as well! Location: Lovell Room. Grades 6-12. No registration required.
The Stratford Library will continue “Sunday Afternoon Talks”, itsseries of informative and entertaining talks featuring prominent local guest speakers, on Sunday, November 17 at 2 pm. Guest speaker Hal Johnson will discuss his new book, Impossible Histories. The talk is free and open to the public.
A thousand years ago, Vikings landed in Canada, set up camp for a little while, and then left forever. But what if they’d stayed a little longer? Milford author Hal Johnsonlooks at these events both from the side of history-as-it-happened (in which Vikings are a footnote in the 16,000-year history of Canada) and history-as-it didn’t. Could one small change a thousand years ago have led to mounted, armored Indigenous knights driving Pilgrims back onto the Mayflower? There’s only one way to find out! Johnson’s Impossible Histories, an exploration of twenty alternate history scenarios, will be the topic of “Sunday Afternoon Talks”. His presentation will be followed by a Q&A and autographed copies of Impossible Histories will be available for purchase.
The “Sunday Afternoon Talks” series, hosted by Charles Lautier of Stratford, is held from 2-3:30 pm in the Stratford Library Lovell Room, 2203 Main Street in Stratford.
