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Author Courtney Maum to discuss new novel at Norfolk Library
Jennifer Almquist
May 27, 2026
Norfolk Library celebrates the release of Courtney Maum’s latest novel, “Alan Opts Out,” with a book launch party Tuesday, June 2, at 5:30 p.m. The author will speak about her book in conversation with WAMC radio producer Sarah LaDuke.
A graduate of Brown University with a degree in comparative literature, Maum is an acclaimed author of five books, including the romantic comedy “Touch,” a New York Times Editors’ Choice and NPR Best Book of the Year; “Costalegre;” and “I’m Having So Much Fun Without You.” Her memoir, “The Year of the Horses,” was chosen by the TODAY show as top pick for Mental Health Awareness Month. Vanity Fair listed her author’s guidebook “Before and After the Book Deal,” as a best resource for writers, and she has an eponymous Substack newsletter.
“This is a story of an advertising executive whose rogue rejection of capitalism inspires waves of reprioritization throughout his neighborhood,” said Maum of her new novel.
When asked about her inspiration for “Alan Opts Out,” Maum mused, “There is a reminder in the lyrics of the Justin Moore song ‘Time’s Ticking’ to ‘make a memory, not just money,’ that sums up the emotional experience I aimed for with this novel. The suspicion that I was living to work instead of working to live was — like for so many of us — one that became especially pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
She continued, “I found myself enjoying the enforced change of pace where priorities shifted to health, time with loved ones and deep, honest gratitude for what I already had, because I sure as heck didn’t know what tomorrow would deliver. Was the pandemic offering me a chance to opt out of the rat race?” Maum began to wonder what would happen if she did. “I took these sentiments, cranked up the volume on them to explore the existential ‘aha moment’ of somebody who did, in fact, opt out.”
In his advance praise for the book, author Carl Hiaasen writes, “Like all good satire, ‘Alan Opts Out’ is vivid, lacerating, and funny, but also presents uncommon empathy for those it skewers.”
Literary Hub describes the book as “the eat-the-rich farce we need, from one of our funniest writers.”
Maum lives in Norfolk and is married to filmmaker Diego Ongaro. She states simply “I write, and I help writers write,” and describes herself as a “human fighting for my wildness.”
Founder of The Cabins, a collaborative arts retreat, Maum also runs a writer’s workshop in New Mexico combining her 20 years in advertising with her love of craft. Maum is a brand strategist, publishing expert, writing coach and creative consultant. She says she wants to “help people hold on to the joy of art making.”
To register for the event, go to norfolklibrary.org. Those who pre-order from Oblong Books (oblongbooks.com) will also receive a lobster sticker.
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Sheila C. Bellamy
Lakeville Journal
May 27, 2026
AMENIA — Sheila C. Bellamy (née Carmel), age 92, of Sarasota, FL, died on May 9, 2026, at her home, after a brief illness.
Sheila was born on May 28, 1933, the oldest daughter of the late Rose (Brown) and Arthur Carmel. Her beloved sister, Ann, soon followed. Sheila was raised in Brooklyn’s Bensonhurst neighborhood and graduated from New Utrecht High School and Brooklyn College, where she earned an English degree while working in the biology and physiology laboratory. Later, while raising four children and working, she earned a master’s degree in education from SUNY New Paltz and advanced certificates in teaching and special education.
After a short stint in North Carolina as a military spouse, Sheila lived in Amenia, New York for 37 years, where she was a devoted educator. She first taught as a substitute teacher in the local school system and then as a teacher at a youth residential facility in town, but most of her many teaching years were spent in special education at the Wassaic Developmental Center.
During her Amenia years, Sheila was a member and leader of several organizations, including the Beth David Congregation, the Webutuck PTA, and the Girl Scouts, and her personal kindness, support, and humor left a lasting impact on many within our community as well.
Sheila met the love of her life and future husband, Ronald Bellamy, R.N., at work more than 45 years ago. They were married in Amenia on July 8, 1990.
Sheila and Ron lived an idyllic retirement in Sarasota beginning in 1995, during which they traveled the world and had adventures both at home and abroad, while continuing to serve as volunteers. Sheila was chosen by the Sarasota-Manatee Chapter of Hadassah as their 2004 Woman of the Year.
In addition to her husband Ronald, Sheila is lovingly survived by daughters Barb Klees (and husband Mark Glickman), Margie Gerrard (and husband Ed), and Carrie Klees; son Ed Klees (and wife Susan); stepdaughters Dawn Brinson and Fraun Bellamy-Baker (and husband Ron Baker); stepsons Tony Bellamy (and wife Alison) and Ronald Bellamy Jr; 19 cherished grandchildren; two beloved nieces; and other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her sister Ann and her stepdaughter Tammy Bellamy. A funeral service was held on May 19, 2026.
Sheila was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, mother-in-law, grandmother, aunt, friend, educator, and community member. She modeled perseverance and kindness, beauty and intelligence, and love and humor, throughout the twists and turns of life. She generously gave her time, effort, and financial support to many meaningful causes. In her memory, please donate to the charities of your choice, and give love to those who need it.
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Robert Clayton Smith
Lakeville Journal
May 27, 2026
KENT — Robert “Bobby” Clayton Smith. The family is sad to announce Bobby’s passing on Saturday, May 16, 2026, after his courageous battle with cancer came to an end at the home of his cousin, Tonya and Daniel Soule, in Kent, Connecticut. Born on Sept. 2, 1956, in Sharon,he was the son of the late Eleanor Hart Smith and James Smith. Bob’s family resided in Sharon, before purchasing and moving to the Bog Hollow Inn in Wassaic, New York where he was a stellar bartender.
He graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School class of 1974 and served in the United States Navy. Bob worked at Tri Wall Container Co. in Wassaic, and later as a self-employed painting contractor.
Bob lived life to the fullest. He inherited his love for hunting and fishing from his dad, Big Jim, who surely taught him everything he knew. With his Dad, he built a camp in Danforth, Maine that while being a time-consuming experience, was enjoyed and cherished by the entire family. He also enjoyed bowling, golf, horseshoes, all card games and was a serious and crafty dart player, affectionately named, “Bull’s Eye Bob.”
Bob enjoyed days on the softball field and played in various leagues. He had an unmistakable presence that made him a familiar face both on the field and around town. He affectionately bragged that he could kick anyone’s “butt,”- especially to his four nephews.
Even during his illness, Bob continued to enjoy gathering and socializing with friends and family. He watched the Yankees and NY Giants, usually with a Bob “opinion included.”He enjoyed watching television shows including the “Price is Right,” “Deal or No Deal,” “Jeopardy,” and the Grit TV network and was a frequent Keno and 13-21 lottery game winner.
Bob is survived by his brother, Bucky Calabro of Poughkeepsie, New York; uncle, Ralph Hart andhis wife, Dixie, of Melbourne, Florida; aunt, Josephine Cullen of Orlando, Florida; brother-in-law, Bruce Osolin of Goshen, Connecticut, and four nephews, Jamie and Jared Smith and Kyle and Andrew Osolin and numerous cousins. He is also survived by his companion of 12 years, Kerry Coelho, who brought adventures, compassion, understanding, friendship, and time together that never wavered. The family wishes to thank Kerry for the selfless love and support she brought to Bob’s life.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Rhonda Osolin and two brothers, Donald Smith and James “Gigi” Smith.
The family and friends extend special thanks to Danny and Toni Soule for all the comforts, support and love they gave Bob in the last year. He was quite happy and content in his surroundings and a place he called “home.”
Calling hours will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Hufcut Funeral Home, 3159 Route 22, Dover Plains, NY. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Valley View Cemetery in Dover Plains, NY.Memorial contributions may be made to the Kent Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 355, Kent, CT 06757 or online at https://www.kentfire.org/. To send the family an online condolence, please visit www.hufcutfuneralhome.com.
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William C. Hower III
Lakeville Journal
May 27, 2026
SALISBURY- — William (Bill) C. Hower III passed away unexpectedly on May 15, 2026, after a brief affliction at the age of 66. He was the beloved husband of Rosanne Foley Hower and father of Amanda and Charlotte Hower.
Bill was born in 1959 to Bill and Gloria Hower (Tino) in Torrington. He graduated from Oliver Wolcott Technical High School in 1977 and continued onto a career in the automotive industry, primarily with his family business, Jim’s Garage in Canaan.
After retiring in 2015, he enjoyed exploring many interests including time spent in Montana, other traveling, co-operating his antique store, enjoying his community and spending lots of time with friends.
Bill was an especially talented skier. The higher the mountain, the happier he was flying down it on fast skis. This past season, he had just broken his own record by skiing 62 days.
At home, Bill was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who shared his love of life and knowledge without limit.
Bill was predeceased by his parents and his sister Frances Scaia. He is survived by his wife Rosanne, daughters Amanda (Long) and Charlotte, grandchildren Josephine and August, sisters Willette Murphy, Ingrid Devita, Monica McGlothlen, and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Sunday, July 12 at Catamount Mountain Resort at 1:00 p.m.
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Survival and conflict on screen at Berkshire International Film Festival
Brian Gersten
May 27, 2026
Psychologist, Holocaust survivor and specialist in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, Edith Eger’s book, “The Choice” has now been adapted into a documentary premiering at the Berkshire International Film Festival.
Photo courtesy The Choice Films
A new documentary exploring survival, trauma and resilience will make its world premiere later this month at the Berkshire International Film Festival. “The Choice,” directed by John David Coles, is scheduled to screen at 12:30 p.m. May 30 at The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington.
Inspired by the bestselling memoir of Holocaust survivor and psychologist Edith Eger, the film brings together the stories of several women confronting profound personal loss and trauma. The documentary follows Eger alongside Iris Haim, an Israeli mother whose son was killed by the IDF while escaping Hamas captivity. The film examines how individuals navigate grief while attempting to rebuild their lives.
Coles, whose previous directing work includes television series such as House of Cards, Homeland and The Sinner, will attend the screening.
The festival will also screen “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk,” on Sunday, May 30, at 4:30 p.m. at The Triplex in Great Barrington. Directed by Sepideh Farsi, the documentary is built from video conversations with Palestinian photojournalist Fatma Hassona documenting daily life in Gaza during the ongoing war. The film gained international attention after Hassona was killed in an Israeli airstrike shortly before the documentary’s premiere at the Cannes Film Festival.
Together, the films underscore BIFF’s focus on urgent, emotionally resonant storytelling from around the world.
Now in its 20th year, the Berkshire International Film Festival runs May 28–31 and features more than 75 films, along with appearances by Karen Allen, Amy Goodman and other filmmakers and performers, as well as screenings, filmmaker conversations and special events across Great Barrington and Lenox.
For more information and tickets to the Berkshire International Film Festival, visit biffma.org
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Sharon Playhouse opens season with Spotlight Gala Celebration
Natalia Zukerman
May 27, 2026
Skip Barber and Sarah Combs to be honored during Sharon Playhouse gala.
Provided
The Sharon Playhouse will kick off its 2026 summer season with its annual Spotlight Gala, “Hey There, Good Times!,” on Saturday, May 30, honoring longtime board member Skip Barber and arts educator Sarah Combs during the theater’s signature fundraising celebration of music, performances and community.
“Few individuals embody innovation, excellence, and community spirit quite like Skip Barber,” said artistic director Carl Andress. “While many know him as a legendary force in American motorsports and the longtime steward of Lime Rock Park, we are equally grateful for the energy, generosity, and community leadership he has brought to this region and to the Sharon Playhouse. He is a true original, and we are thrilled to honor him,” he continued.
Education and community director Michael Baldwin said honoring Combs with the first Spotlight Spirit Award is “both joyful and deeply fitting.”
“Sarah Combs has devoted her life to the transformative power of the arts — not only as a gifted performer, but as a teacher, mentor, and tireless advocate for young artists and community creativity,” Baldwin said.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. with cocktails, dinner by Rita Welch Catering and a fundraising celebration in The Bok. A second “Patio Celebration” option beginning at 6:30 p.m. will feature live music by Ram Miles and Joe Finn, outdoor dining and pre-show festivities.
The gala performance and award presentation, directed and choreographed by Krystyna Resavy with music direction by Eric Thomas Johnson, will feature a Broadway-style musical revue performed by Sharon Playhouse favorites, guest artists and members of the YouthStage Company. Performers include Will Nash Broyles, Michael Siktberg, Ricky Oliver, Lucy Rhoades, Sasha Spitz and Michelle Lemon, along with special guests from upcoming season productions including “Swingtime Canteen,” “Come From Away,” “42nd Street” and “Zombie Prom.”
“This is truly one of the most joyful nights of our year,” Andress said. “The Spotlight Gala is a celebration of everything the Playhouse represents: professional theater, arts education, community, and the incredible artists of all ages who bring our campus to life.”
Proceeds from the gala support the Sharon Playhouse Fund, which helps sustain professional theater productions, arts education programs and the theater’s Northwest Connecticut campus.
More information and tickets are available at sharonplayhouse.org.
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