Book Launch Event for Light the Way

Join Light the Way, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut and the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce, for the official launch of Bay the Connecticut Water Safety Dog. This engaging, age‑appropriate children’s book teaches essential water and boating safety skills through positive, memorable storytelling. Through Bay’s visits to classrooms, boats, lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, children and families learn how to make smart, life‑saving choices on and around the water.

Founded by Jessica Britagna, Light the Way is a Connecticut‑based 501(c)(3) nonprofit created in loving memory of her son Ryan Britagna and two other boys whose lives were tragically lost at the Saybrook Point Breakwater. The organization transforms loss into action by preventing boating accidents through education, awareness, and safety advocacy—work that has led to meaningful, measurable change across the state.

Light the Way focuses on practical boater safety education, community outreach, and statewide advocacy, including successful efforts that helped secure U.S. Coast Guard lighting at Saybrook Point and the passage of stronger DUI–BUI boating safety legislation. Powered by families, boaters, volunteers, and safety professionals, the organization continues to expand hands‑on, on‑water training initiatives to help ensure safer waterways for future generations.

This special, family‑friendly launch event is proudly hosted by Chamber board member Tai Au at The Spot Café in the coastal town of Groton. The gathering will include networking, a meet‑and‑greet with the founder/author, and book sales and signings. Open to the public and welcoming all those who've contributed to the book, the evening celebrates education, collaboration, and community—and a shared commitment to keeping the water a place of joy, learning, and safety, not tragedy.