Roundup
PSA national champs win season opener
ATLANTA — 2025 National Prep Basketball champions Putnam Science Academy won its season opener Thursday 79-69 over Overtime Elite program the Cold Hearts.  Jordan Skyers led the Mustangs with 20 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists.  Adama Tambedou added 16 points and 7 rebounds and Favour Egbuna had 15 points and 6 rebounds in the win.  Kamai Samuels chipped in 15 points, 6 assists and 3 steals and David had 12 points, 6 steals and 4 rebounds.  PSA has won 34 straight games and moves to 1-0 this season.  
Football
PRINCETON, N.J. — Quarterback Demarcus Williams threw for 240 yards but unfortunately, it was not enough, as The Hun School came away with the victory, 51-14. Williams also threw for two touchdowns. Ronald Florian caught those two touchdown passes, continuing his incredible season. He caught four passes for 90 yards. The defense had a strong showing as Aeden Gonzalez had nine tackles along with two tackles for losses. Victor Flores picked off the Hun quarterback and returned 65 yards. The Mustangs drop to 0-4 on the season. They play next at American International College this Saturday.
Women’s Soccer
The Putnam Science Academy women’s soccer team played to a 1-1 tie at Green Field Academy. Lais Felipe scored the only goal for the Mustangs. The women’s record now sits at 8-2-2 on the season.
Prep Basketball
 ATLANTA — Putnam Science Prep basketball team knocked off Overtime Elite’s most storied team, the City Reapers 89-86.   The Mustangs were up as much as 25 points in the third quarter but the City Reapers wouldn’t quit. Jordan Skyers led the Mustangs with 30 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists.  Jalen Taggart came off the bench and hit 5 three pointers and finished with 15 points and 2 assists.  Kamai Samuels added 13 points, 8 assists and 4 rebounds.  David Gaymon added 8 points, 4 steals and 3 assists in the win.  Favour Egbuna chipped in 7 points and 7 rebounds as PSA improves to 2-0 on the season. 

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Robert H. ‘Bob’ Lussier Sr.
PUTNAM — Robert “Bob” Lussier Sr., 75, of Woodstock Avenue, passed away Oct. 13, 2025, in Putnam. He was the beloved husband of Barbara (Casko) Lussier, who was Bob’s loving and devoted caregiver throughout the health challenges he experienced in recent years. Born Sept. 2, 1950, in Putnam, Bob was the son of the late Henry and Helen (Morin) Lussier. 
Bob excelled at music while a student at Putnam High School and became the leader of the school’s marching band. In 1965, at age 15, he joined a band formed by high school friend Mike Crotty that would grow to become the premier performance group in the tri-state area, The Coachmen. Bob recalled that their first gig was at the American Legion Hall in Grosvenordale. The band rehearsed for the first time that morning at 10 a.m., and played out that night, featuring the popular standards of the ‘40s and ‘50s, and their two newly rehearsed rock and roll songs – “Wipe Out” and “Aquarius.”
Following PHS graduation, Bob’s love of music and the saxophone led him to Berklee College of Music, where he made friendships that endured throughout his life. He continued to perform in the Bob Lussier Mood, and a new version of The Coachmen called Lionshare. After college graduation, he returned to Putnam to work at Belding Manufacturing and eventually at Loos and Company in Pomfret in the quality control department. Work paid the bills to support his family, and Bob continued to pursue music as a part-time career.
Bob was a member of the American Federation of Musicians and was an Executive Board Member of the Southbridge, Mass., chapter of the Musicians Union. He became a licensed booking agent in 1975 and opened the Bob Lussier Associates Entertainment Agency that same year. His fellow saxophonist and best friend Jim Milliard joined him in business in 1983, and “side by each” they operated Lussier-Milliard Associates Music & Entertainment Agency until 1990, representing hundreds of bands, musicians, disc jockeys, and novelty entertainers. Stonehouse Road, The Ambassadors, Taste, Miami, Drive, Reality, Rumors, Jokers 4, The Ron Stone Big Band, and Tiara are just a few of the many bands represented by L & M. They were showcased annually during the Lussier-Milliard “Musical Extravaganza” at the Woodstock Fair.
The Coachmen regrouped in 1979 and continued to travel throughout New England in their big blue bus to play at weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, colleges, corporate conventions, bars, restaurants, and event halls until 1986. If you married in northeast Connecticut in the ‘70s and ‘80s, chances are very likely that The Coachmen performed at your wedding. They were the house band at Thompson Raceway Restaurant and The Stables (now Black Dog Bar and Grille in Putnam) for many years.
Having spent so much time in these social environments, it was natural that Bob would develop a love for the restaurant business. He was a fixture at The Stables Restaurant and eventually became the manager when it was purchased and remodeled into JD Coopers. Bob was a natural host who always went out of his way to make every customer feel special. His longtime association with his dear friend Craig Gates also led to another successful career – this one in car sales, where Bob became a much-sought-after sales associate at Gates GMC Buick Nissan in Windham. Bob excelled in sales and was the recipient of numerous accolades, awards, and five-star reviews. He loved his colleagues, earned many referrals and return customers, and made countless friends during his time there. 
Bob was known and respected for his kindness, warm and welcoming personality, legendary storytelling, sense of humor, hearty laugh, and persistent smile. He was genuinely delighted to greet anyone he met, whether a long-time friend or a soon-to-be one. His love for his family and friends defined him. Right after being with his family, his favorite place was on stage, with his saxophone and bandmates, and pouring his heart, soul, and music out to his many fans.
He leaves three sons of whom he was so proud, Robert H. Lussier Jr. (Crissy) of Hampton; Thomas Sansoucy (Jennifer) of Pomfret; Adam Sansoucy (Suzanne) of Pomfret; granddaughters Sharice Trayner and Ellie Sansoucy; grandsons T.J. Sansoucy and Noah Sansoucy; and great-grandson, Harley Trayner. He also shared special relationships with his nephew Justin Lussier, and nieces Rebecca Lussier, Kimberly Lussier, and Karalee Peach. He adored each and every one. He was predeceased by his brother, Lawrence “Larry” Lussier.
At the end of every gig, Bob would loudly exclaim that the band had just given the audience a “big one!” His loss is indeed a big one that cannot be filled, but we are grateful for his music, the countless opportunities he provided for artists, and the many beautiful memories he has left behind.
“Last Call” services for Bob will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 14 at Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St., Putnam. There will be a memorial service from 1 to 1:30 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Black Dog Bar and Grille, 146 Park Road in Putnam. Donations: Jolly John’s Keep You Truckin’ Fund. 

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Wed.  Oct. 22
Art Exhibit
THOMPSON --- The Friends of the Thompson Public Library will present “Structured Impressions” by Lisa Davidson, Susan Graceck and Sally Rogers through the month of October. The display case will have “Crochet and Knitted Toys” by Jeanne Carita. 

Fri.  Oct. 24
Fund-raiser
PUTNAM ---  The Knights of Columbus on Providence Street is hosting a Steak Dinner Fund-raiser to benefit Paws Cat Shelter from 6 to 7 p.m. eat in or take out. Tickets: $30 available Knights of Columbus, Paws Cat Shelter, 74 School St.; and Joseph Jewelers, 153 School St. 860-315-1228.

Nature Program
POMFRET --- The Connecticut Audubon Society at Pomfret Center will present “Saw-whet Owl Banding Demonstration” at 7 p.m. $20 for members; $30 for nonmembers. Bring your camera. Registration required: 860-928-4948. 

Sat.  Oct. 25
Fund-raiser Spaghetti
PUTNAM --- Cub Scout Pack 21 of Putnam will host its fall spaghetti dinner from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Albert J. Breault VFW Post 1523 on Providence Street. Take out or eat in. $10 for adults and kids 12 and younger eat for free. There will also be a bake sale and raffles. Advance tickets: VFW Post and at Joseph’s Jewelers on School Street or 860-928-5873 (leave a message) Benefits Putnam Cub Scout Pack 21 Activity Fund to help the Cub Scouts grow. 

Trick or Treat
PUTNAM --- The Town of Putnam will present its annual downtown Putnam Trick or Treat from 2 to 3:30 p.m. 

Special Presentation
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Public Library will present an exclusive at 12:30 p.m. in Room 109 of the Municipal Complex: Ken Burns’ “The American Revolution.” A post-viewing discussion follows. No registration required. Info: Nicole Flagg Nichols, Adult Services Librarian, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the library: 860-963-6826.

Poetry
POMFRET --- Poets at Large will present the Poet Laureate of Bristol at 7 p.m. the Vanilla Bean Café. $15 admission which includes a raffle.  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to sign up for the open mic which is recommended for ages 18 and up and has a 5-minute max as time allows.

Fund-raiser
PUTNAM --- Paws Cat Shelter is holding a raffle basket Purr-looza from noon to 5 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus on Providence Street. $20 for 25 tickets or $5 for 6 tickets.  Preview from 6 to 7 p.m. during steak dinner. Tickets: 860-315-1228.

Sun.  Oct. 26
Nature Program
POMFRET --- The Connecticut Audubon Society at Pomfret Center will present an opossum program from Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue at 1 p.m. $5 for CAS members; $10 for nonmembers. Free for kids aged 10 or younger. Register recommended:  860-928-4948. 

Exhibit
WOODSTOCK --- The Center for Woodstock History is presenting a photo exhibit, "Woodstock Through the Camera's Eye in Post-Civil War America," from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays. Check for updates: 860-928-1035. 

Tues.  Oct. 28
Al-Anon Meeting
POMFRET --- Al-Anon will meet at noon on Tuesdays at the Christ Church, 527 Pomfret St. Please use the lower level door, near the flagpole. All welcome.

Fri.  Oct. 31
Nature Program
POMFRET --- The Connecticut Audubon Society at Pomfret Center will present “Saw-whet Owl Banding Demonstration” at 7 p.m. $20 for members; $30 for nonmembers. Bring your camera. Registration required: 860-928-4948. 

Sat.  Nov. 1
Boot/Sock Drive
PUTNAM --- Senexet Grange is holding its Community Boot Drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Municipal Complex. They are looking for new or gently used warm boots and new socks. Monetary donations welcome also. Make checks out to TEEG. Benefits TEEG. 

Bottle, Can Drive
PUTNAM --- Putnam - Paws Cat Shelter is holding a Can and Bottle Drive from noon to 3 p.m. at the shelter, 74 School St. Please separate 2-liter bottles. Pet food and donations are always welcome. 860-315-1228.

Cocoa for Coats
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Family Resource Center will be holding its annual Cocoa for Coats from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Putnam Farmers Market off Kennedy Drive. Bring a new coat/jacket or a monetary donation (Checks made out to Putnam Resource Center with Cocoa For Coats in the memo). Free cocoa and free coffee. Matching donations for the first $200.

Harvest Festival
CANTERBURY --- The Finnish American Heritage Society will present its Finnish Harvest Festival from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Finnish American Heritage Society. 76 North Canterbury Road. Agricultural and cultural games, crafts, traditional harvest customs. Family-friendly. Child supervision required. Free.

Sun.  Nov. 2
Bark Harvest
KILLINGLY --- The Killingly Business Association will present Bark Harvest from noon to 4 p.m. at the former St. Joseph’s Church. It will feature activities for pets and people. Event-goers will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite dog photos to be included in a 2026 Bark Harvest Studio calendar. Those interested in entering their dog or otherwise can schedule a photo shoot with Charlene’s Portrait Studio. The $40 fee will be donated to local animal shelters and future Pawsitively Killingly initiatives. killinglyba.org/BarkHarvest.

Music
CHEPACHET --- The “Music at the Meeting House” at the Chepachet Baptist Church on Rt. 44 will present Country Wild Heart at 2:30 p.m.  Public welcome for free, but a free will offering will be taken. Refreshments follow the concert. chepachetbaptist.org.

Sat.  Nov. 9
Lantern Workshop
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Public Library will present “Korean Lotus Lantern Workshop” from 1 to 2:15 p.m. at the library. Presented by the Korean Spirit & Culture Promotion Project. Registration required: 960-963-6826.

Wed.  Nov. 5
Book Talk
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Public Library will present Lisette Rimer, author, with “Back from Suicide: Before and After the Essential Patrick” at 6 p.m. at the library. Signed copies available – proceeds support the Patrick Wood Scholarship at Pomfret School. www.backfromsuicide.com

Thur.  Nov. 6
Book Signing
PUTNAM --- A book signing and talk for “The Flood of 1955” by Ron Coderre will be held at 10:30 a.m. in the Aspinock Historical Society office in the Municipal Complex. Coffee and …  provided. RSVP: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Tues.  Nov. 11
Veterans Tribute
PUTNAM --- The Mayotte-Viens American Legion Post 13 will present its Guest Bartender Night and Veterans Tribute to Ron Coderre, Bruce Hay and Brian Maynard at 5:30 p.m. at Marley’s Pub. Tips and donations raised support American Legion Post 13 youth programs and veteran programs.

Wed.  Nov. 12
Writing
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Public Library will present “From Fuzzy Idea to Finished Story: Crafting a Murder Mystery” by local author Sarah P. Blanchard from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the library. Author talk and book signing.

Sat.  Nov. 22
250th Event
PUTNAM --- The Putnam CT250 250th Anniversary Celebration of the Declaration of Independence Kick Off will feature a roast beef dinner followed by a band at the Albert J. Breault VFW Post 1523. Dinner is from 5 to 7 and the band Jailbreak follows from 7 to 11 p.m. $20/pp or $40 per couple. Tickets at the Putnam Recreation Department.

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