American Legion golf tourney was a success
PUTNAM — Putnam’s Mayotte-Viens American Legion Post 13 held its annual golf tournament recently and raised an excellent amount of money for its programs.
Twenty-seven foursomes completed the 18 hole course at Connecticut National. According to Post 13 Commander Michael Rocchetti: “The Golf Tournament is one of our most important annual fund-raising events and a primary source of income for the Post. There was a great turnout, and the support, and generosity of our local community is evident! It’s nice to know that the community appreciates the work our American Legion Post is doing for the local community.”
This year, the focus of the golf tournament was twofold – to honor the legacy of Putnam’s only Congressional Medal of Honor recipient – U.S. Navy submariner Henry Breault, and to establish and fund an endowment for veterans scholarships at CT State Community College: Quinebaug Valley.
Brian Maynard, a past Post 13 commander, served as the chairman of the Golf Committee and put together a team that included Ed Morissette, Cara Mooney, Shayna O’Brien, Emma Prindle, Mike Vasar, Earl Rosebrooks, Chas MacKenzie, and Nick Patel.
Maynard said, “This was an all-star team – highly motivated and very dedicated to making the event a success.” Maynard also congratulated the tournament winning foursome of Northeast Flooring & Kitchens (Alec Foucalt, Josh Rice, Andrew Senecal, and Chris Lajoie), with a score of 55, which is 17 under par.
Before the teams tee’d off Maynard spoke about the importance of the Legion’s programs in Putnam, and the postive impact they have on the local community. He also expressed sincere gratitude for the primary tournament sponsors which included Big Garry’s Discount Liquors, and The Supported Living Group. “We also thank all of the other spnsors including our “Colonel-level” Sponsors: Roger Franklin, The HILB Group, EDS Mechanical, FCT Inc (Earl Rosebrooks), and Northeast Kitchens and Floring [George Amenabar]. Our “Major-level” sponsors included: Jewitt City Savings Bank, Michael Rocchetti, Waste Inovations, Service Master by Mason, Downes Construction, Michael Losasso, Arbella (Marie Glaude), A Block Away Construction LLC, Delta Dental (James Cannon), KIllingly glass, Venture Communications & Security, Beacon Mutual Insurance, and Bank Hometown. Special thanks also to our many tee sponsors: Kevin Lengyel & Associates LLC, Krolln Kutz, Rawson Materials, Putnam Police Department, Tee Sign in honor of Alan-Scott Herman, D & S Construction, Quinn Family, Mark Brule [in honor of Thomas Brule USMC], Unicorr Packaging, Spirol International Co., Bachand Longo & Higgins, Baker’s Dozen, and Sunny’s Discount Liquors.
Rocchetti added: “We are also thankful for the many donations we received for raffle prizes, and for the people who came out today to golf at our tournament. It’s just overwhelming we exceeded our expectations! How lucky we are to live in such a great community!”
He added, “Putnam’s American Legion Post 13 has been active in our community since 1919. This veteran’s organization stands on four pillars - Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth. The Legion has a wide variety of related programs that directly support our local community.”
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caption, page 11:
Winners
The winners of the American Legion Post 13's fund-raiser golf tournament, Northeast Flooring & Kitchens (Alec Foucalt, Josh Rice, Andrew Senecal, and Chris Lajoie),Courtesy photo.
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Roundup
Putnam Science Academy soccer team falls
PROVIDENCE — The Putnam Science Academy men’s soccer program traveled to Providence Country Day School to face the U19 Bayside FC team and fell short 2-1. Pedro Rosa was the lone goal scorer in the contest for PSA.
PROVIDENCE — The PSA varsity soccer program traveled to Providence Country Day School to face the U17 Bayside FC team and lost 4-1. Pedro Rosa was the lone goal scorer. The Mustangs are 0-3 on the season.
BARRINGTON, R.I. —— Putnam Science Academy women’s soccer team notched another victory against St. Andrews 5-1. Manoela Silva got the scoring going first; then it was Nicole Costa who found the back of the net to make it 2-0 Mustangs. Laura de Paulo made it 3-0. Maria Guedes goal gave the Mustangs 4-nil halftime lead. Luana Mendes was the lucky winner for the fifth and final of the game. The Mustangs now sit at 8-0-1 on the season.
OAKDALE — It was just one of those days for the Putnam Science Academy women’s soccer team against St. Thomas More. After a tremendous effort on offense, having 10 shots on goal, they could not find the back of the net in a 2-0 loss.
WOONSOCKET, R.I. — In a hard fought game in Rhode Island, the Putnam Science Academy Varsity boys’ soccer team fell 1-0 to Mount St. Charles. The Mustangs fall to 0-3 on the season.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The Putnam Science Academy baseball team participated in a seven-inning fall ball scrimmage vs Paramount Academy in Springfield. The Mustangs had a big hit from Yeoungha Yoon in the seventh inning to take the lead, 7-6. Putnam Science couldn’t hold on in the bottom of the 7th, falling 8-7. The team used five pitchers throughout the game. Andreas Gerardo, Jacob Mondo, Alvin Rosario, Shiloh Reyes and Jayson Serrano all saw limited action on the mound.
OAKDALE — The PSA men’s varsity soccer team took on St. Thomas More and, decimated by injuries, the Mustangs could not come away with a victory, falling 5-0 as they play Mount St. Charles. The varsity team sits at 0-4 on the season.
READING, Mass. —The Putnam Science Academy women’s soccer team took on national power Austin Prep. Nicole Costa was the lone goal scorer for the Mustangs, with her 17th minute goal but the Lady Mustangs lost 8-1. PSA women’s record is 8-2-1 on the season.
WOONSOCKET, R.I. — The PSA men’s varsity soccer team got their first win of the season in exciting fashion. The Mustangs prevailed on penalty kicks after a scoreless regulation, 0-0 (5-4), against Mount St. Charles. Caio Da Silva made the ball go in with his shot in PSA’s first round of penalty kicks. Raphael Martinelli, Theo Piva, Pedro Da Rosa and Mateus Furio sealed the Mustangs victory with goals of their own. The Mustangs varsity record is now 1-4 on the season.
Ben Heacox
Sports Information Director
Putnam Science Academy
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Thomas J. Auclair (Coach)
PUTNAM — Thomas Joseph Auclair (Coach), 78, passed away on Oct. 2, 2025, and is now at peace. Tom and his wife Janet Auclair were married 54 years, raising their family in the town of Putnam.
He was born Nov. 12, 1946.
Tom was a graduate and scholar athlete at Putnam High School. He later attended Eastern Connecticut State University where he pursued a master’s degree in education. His dedication and love for the profession coincided with a passion for coaching. In 1977 Tom was hired at Tourtellotte Memorial High School where he served as both a teacher and coach for more than 30 years. He also spent time as a referee for the Eastern Board of Officials for basketball.
Tom’s joy came from baseball- a pitcher in college, an avid Red Sox fan, and a coach of both the high school Tourtellotte team as well as the American Legion Zone 9 team. From 1977- 1997 his high school team missed only one state tournament in 1993. His years of coaching American Legion also produced many successful seasons of high caliber baseball. Tom’s work ethic and “tough love” approach to coaching didn’t just teach the game, but taught his players how to be successful in life. Tom and his family enjoyed each season, spring and summer, packing up to travel with his teams and their families. So many memories were made, both on the field and off, that will always be cherished by Tom’s family.
After retirement in 2006 from both teaching and coaching, Tom and his wife Jan lived their best life in Avon Park, Fla., through the winter months where they enjoyed the company of many friends from northeastern Connecticut. They would return north each summer to spend time with their kids and grandkids, and Tom would relentlessly work on his golf game. He was a member at both Quinnatisset Country Club in Thompson, as well as the River Greens Golf Course in Avon Park.
In addition to his wife Jan, Tom leaves his children, Heidi Auclair-Golden (Dennis), Adam Auclair, and Aaron Auclair (Bethany); three sisters and a brother, Kate Cullen, Tracy Greene, Tammy Costa and Bernie Cullen. His first love was his wife, then his family, and baseball. Tom’s later love and joy became his grandchildren. He leaves behind his granddaughters, Ava Golden and Leah Auclair, and grandsons Evan Auclair and Jax Golden. Tom was so proud of their accomplishments and all they have achieved both in school and in the sports they have played.
Tom Auclair was a friend, a teacher and a coach to so many over the years. His impact in our small part of the state will live on through the memories he made with so many.
The immediate family will be holding a private service for Tom. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in late spring or early summer of 2026. Tom’s family will be creating a Memorial Scholarship in his name and donations can be made to: The Tom Auclair Memorial Scholarship Fund, PO Box 157, 366 Thompson Hill Road, Thompson CT 06277. Gilman and Valade Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam.
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Wed. Oct. 16
Art Exhibit
DANIELSON --- Thompson artists Ann C. Rosebrooks and Donna O'Scolaigh Lange will be showing paintings and mixed media collage work through Dec. 1 Heirloom Food Company on North Main Street. A reception will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 17.
Nature Program
PLAINFIELD --- The Connecticut Audubon Society at Pomfret Center will hold a bird walk at 8 a.m. at the Quinebaug Valley State Fish Hatchery Fee: $10 members; $20 non-members. Registration required: 860-928-4948.
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. 17
‘Murder on Orient Express’
PUTNAM --- The Bradley Playhouse will present “Murder on the Orient Express” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17, 18 and at 2 p.m. Oct. 19. Tickets are $26 for adults; $23 for seniors, students, veterans and first responders (including fees). Reservations may be made with a major credit card online at www.thebradleyplayhouse.org or by calling 860-928-7887.
Sat. Oct. 18
Great Pumpkin Fest
PUTNAM --- The town of Putnam, Putnam Business Association and CT Tourism Office/CT Visit will present Putnam’s Great Pumpkin Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Crafts, food, great pumpkins and more.
Rabies Clinic
DANIELSON --- Pet Pals Northeast will hold a low-cost rabies clinic from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Quinebaug Valley Veterinary Hospital on Rt. 12. $15 cash per animal. Preregistration required. No walk-ins. This is the last clinic until April. 860-317-1720.
Fine Arts Fest
WOODSTOCK --- Roseland Cottage holds its 43rd annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18 and Oct. 19. Admission for adults is $5. Historic New England members and children under 12 are free. Parking is free. The event is held rain or shine. Info: 860-928-4074 or 617-994-5924.
250th Program
POMFRET --- A Pomfret Historical Society/Walktober walk will go to the Steven Averill gravestone in Wolf Den Park at 9 a.m. Steven Averill fought at Bunker Hill in 1775 and was buried on the family farm, now Wolf Den State Park. Meet at the Wolf Den park headquarters on Wolf Den Drive. Wear sturdy hiking shoes. Info: 860-465-7228.
Sun. Oct. 19
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.
Mon. Oct. 20
Meditation Group
THOMPSON --- The Quiet Corner Mindful Meditation group will meet from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thompson Public Library. Free. Beginners welcome, no meditation experience necessary.
Tues. Oct. 21
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.
Beirut Remembrance
PUTNAM --- A Beirut Barracks Bombing Remembrance Ceremony will be held at noon at the Veterans Park, corner of Church and Bridge streets.
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,
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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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