Ink Magazine - July 2018

July 2018

Complimentary

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Vol 14 Issue 152 2018

A guide to finer living in Connecticut & abroad.

THE SMARTER CHOICE FOR

Robot-Assisted Joint Replacement That Hasn’t Lost Its Human Touch The orthopedic surgeons at Middlesex Hospital are experts in the latest robot-assisted joint replacement procedures. And the nurses who care for our orthopedic patients scored in the 99th percentile for patient satisfaction—among the highest in the country. So, you get the most advanced treatments available, combined with a level of personalized care and attention you just won’t find anywhere else. middlesexhospital.org/motion

www.inkct.com

Features

JULY 2018

Columns, Reviews, Events

ISSUE CONTENTS

Crusty Old Diver

Fishing Gives Me the Blues.

Roxbury Market & Deli

pg. 24

Music Mirth & Mojo ...All that Jazz

The Pulse of Roxbury

Cardinal Points

pg. 10

The Cheesemonger

pg. 46

Mother and Son, Sea Otters, Moss Landing My 2018 Top 10 List

pg. 58 pg. 70

On The Vine Burgundy

pg. 74

Life On Sugar Cakes by the beach ... and other delightful summertime sweets pg. 76

Party Plus “Do you have...?” Taylor Does

June Events

pg. 80

Upcoming events in Connecticut

pg. 20

The Maggie P Was and Still is Home

pg. 28

1938: Devastation 2018: A Jewel The Rebirth of Ocean Beach

pg. 38

On the Cover this Month: “Bathing Beauty” by Del-Bourree Bach

INK staff Contributors:

Advertising:

Jeffery Lilly - galactic overlord

Contact us to receive our media kit complete with

Stephanie Sittnick - founder/publisher/sales/design detailed advertising information including ad rates,

Fine Arts Painter: Del-Bourree Bach

Susan Cornell - editorial

“The Best Training is Doing.”

Laurencia Ciprus - editorial

pg. 50

Carolyn Battisa - editorial

Caryn B. Davis - editorial/photography Charmagne Eckert - editorial Mark Seth Lender - Cardinal Points Nancy LaMar-Rodgers - editorial Barbara Malinsky - editorial

Authenticating “Lady Margaret” The quest to solve an identity crisis.

pg. 64

We encourage the public to submit stories, poems, photography, essays, and all things creative. If you know of a person or place of interest, please submit your ideas to: submissions@ink-pub.com We will do our best to put your ideas in INK.

Rona Mann - editorial Paul Partica - The Cheesemonger Anthony Reczek - editorial

demographics, and distribution in your area.

Please direct your advertising inquiries and questions to: Stephanie Sittnick - Director of Advertising advertising@ink-pub.com - 860-227-8199 Cheryl Powell - Greater Connecticut cheryl@ink-pub.com - 860-608-5749 Rona Mann - Greater Connecticut six07co@att.net - 401-539-7762 Jacki Hornish - Litchfield jacki@inkct - 860-488-0393

John Tolmie - crusty old diver

Richard Malinsky - Shoreline

A. Vincent Scarano - photography

richard.malinsky007@gmail.com - 215-704-9273

Every issue is printed using 100% Soy based ink.

All content of INK Publications including but not limited to text, photos, graphics and layout are copyrighted by INK Publishing, LLC. Reproductions without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. Ink Publishing, LLC is not responsible for images or graphics submitted by advertisers which are not copyrighted or released for use in this publication.

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The Pulse of Roxbury

by Rona Mann / photos by Angela Carontino It’s just a minute or so after 6AM on a Saturday morning in this sleepy little village.

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he coffee is brewing, the doors have just been unlocked, the music system and the lights are turned on, and already people are beginning to come through the doors at a pretty good clip.

They’re after morning coffee, perhaps a slice of marble cake or other homemade pastry to accompany it, or maybe it’s a breakfast sandwich or some picnic supplies. All of them, however, are after a welcoming place with friendly conversation and will no doubt find it instantly, as this is a place where neighbor

knows neighbor, where there are no strangers, where each day begins with a rhythm: the door opening, the coffee pots perking, the newspapers being delivered, and the sounds of the early morning taking over the considerable space. Yes, there is a very distinct rhythm here, one that in essence began a century ago and continues to this day.

This is Roxbury Market, the talk-of-the-town gathering place for the tiny burgh of Roxbury, Connecticut tucked away in the northwest quadrant of the state. Yes, this is Roxbury, a town of little more than 600 families nestled between New Milford and Southbury that originally was a part of the town of Woodbury. But fiercely individual and independent like its people, Roxbury now stands proudly on its own here in this historic and

wooded picture postcard that is framed within Litchfield County.

There’s a good bit of both geography and history in this town, not the least of which is the origins of Roxbury Market itself, when in the ‘20s and ‘30s was known as Hodge’s, owned and operated by Burton Hodge and his son, Philo, descendants of one of the most prominent families in town. Today on the same parcel of land Roxbury Market serves as more than just a place for morning coffee and conversation, it remains the pulse of the town...a place to grab a quick sandwich from the deli, fill in needed grocery items, or indulge in a memorable ice cream treat.

12 seek the peace, quiet, and virtual anonymity of living in Roxbury.

In addition to what you might expect to find at the Roxbury Market, here are just some of the things you may not be expecting.

You’ll find shelves of locally produced jams, honey, marinara sauce, relishes, and chutney next to books by area authors, magnificently carved wooden bowls, garnet jewelry, and a

Yes, ice cream is a big part of life around these parts. When folks get a hankering for this frozen dessert, Roxbury Market is their go-to in town because the market doesn’t just sell ice cream from a freezer...they are a primary satellite location for Ferris Acres Creamery and their premium treats, named the #1 ice cream in the State of Connecticut in 2017. This Newtown based family owned farm dating back to 1703 and boasting more than 22 years of ice cream production right on their farm, provides Roxbury Market with some of their more popular flavors like Bada Bing, Ali-Oop, Elvis’ Dream, Paradise Found, and more.

Market owner Wayne Ferris, who just happens to be a part of the Ferris Acres Creamery family, is proud to announce that this summer Roxbury Market will carry 40 flavors of Connecticut’s finest, including local favorites, “Roxbury Rox,” “Marilyn Madness,” and “Arthur Miller.” The latter two flavors are a tip of the hat to local celebs, named for the famous power couple (she the sexy actress and icon and he the Pulitzer Prize award winning playwright) who at one time lived in Roxbury.

For those pop culture historians, other famous people who at one time lived or still reside in this charming piece of Americana include Early American revolutionary, Ethan Allen; actor Dustin Hoffman; film critic, Rex Reed; Broadway composer-lyricist, Stephen Sondheim; late movie idol, Richard Widmark; and heralded author, Frank McCourt (“Angela’s Ashes”), among others who

wrap is being made, it’s fun to walk around the store and perhaps acquire one of these “finds” as your next hostess gift, or perhaps just a treat for yourself.

The early morning crowd can always count on finding the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, or the local Republican American as intellectual accompaniment with their coffee and a starting place for lively conversation or heated discussion. It’s as good a reason as any to make a daily stop.

Fact is, there’s always a reason to visit The Roxbury Market. Here’s another.

full line of popular Goatboy Soaps, a product of nearby New Milford, made in small batches using essential oils. The Market is proud to showcase these products created by the unique talent pool that surrounds this Litchfield County area. While your breakfast or

On Saturday, August 11th Wayne Ferris and the Roxbury Market presents the first annual Roxbury Jazz Fest right at Munson Meadow, adjacent to the market property at 26 North Street in the very heart of town. This is an all-day-into-the-

13 people to come, kick back, and enjoy.”

Make sure you stop at the Market first to pick up your sandwiches, wraps, chips, beverages, and other picnic fixings, then spend a great summer day enjoying the artistic endeavors of the people who give rhythm and music to the pulse of this unique community. photo by Jeffery Lilly

evening exciting celebration of music guaranteed to lift your spirits and make this community jump, dance, and sing as one. Local artists on tap to perform include The Doug White Quartet, Marc Wager and the Roxtones, the Kathy Thompson Band, Medusa, featuring Jocelyn Pleasant and Corey Hutchins, and the Hot Club of Black Rock. “This will be our first year,” Ferris says, “but we hope to make the Jazz Fest an annual event, so we’re urging

Hot, fresh coffee, homemade pastries, delicious deli sandwiches, breakfast, all the news that’s fit and unfit (!) in print, and news you’ll hear from your neighbors, grocery items, gift items, a mini ice cream parlor, and now a backyard arena in which to enjoy local jazz on August 11th.

Yes indeed, this is Roxbury Market...your kind of place with your kind of people. It’s the pulse of Roxbury!

Come enjoy friends, Coffee, and don’t forget the Ice Cream at Roxbury Market & Delo 26 North Street; Roxbury (860) 355-0733

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Left to right: Sam Redway, Traci Redway, Colby Redway, James Allen (in machine) photo by Stephanie Sittnick

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“Do You Have…?”

Taylor Does!

by Rona Mann

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ou’re having a party, but you do not have 24 matching cups, saucers, plates, glasses, or anything else for that matter. Who does? Taylor does!

You’re having the wedding reception in the backyard, or at that great rustic barn you rented; and it’s up to you to provide the linen, the chairs, and that old fashioned trellis your daughter has her heart set on, but who has it? Taylor does!

You’re in charge of an outdoor event, and everyone’s praying for a sunny day. But this is New England; and well, you know how that goes. So just in case, you probably should have

a tent. But where are you going to get one for a fair price? Who’s going to deliver it, set it up, take it down? And what about tables, chairs, and all those other things you’re going to need.

Who’s got them? Taylor does!

You know Taylor...

Taylor Rental. You’ve always known that name, but maybe you’ve forgotten everything they have and everything they can do to make your next event not only a success, but effortless as well. Or, it’s possible that maybe you never knew. Well then, it’s time to get familiar with your shoreline Taylor Rental, conveniently located right on the Post Road in Westbrook, with literally thousands of “everything-you-needs” right there in their enormous inventory, ready to complement whatever ideas you’ve got or haven’t even thought of yet.

The first thing you need to know is that there are hundreds of Taylor Rentals all over the United States, but they’re not all alike. Each is individually owned and operated, which is why you’re so lucky to live right here so you can do business with Westbrook Taylor Rental, a company that’s been in the same family for over half a century. That means they know: they know their business, they know what their customers want and need, and they know this area: the parks, the reception facilities, the rules and regulations of what you can and can’t

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do. So when you call Taylor Rental in Westbrook and ask, “Do you have?” chances are pretty darn good, they do. And when you wonder, “Are we able to do that there?” they’ll know. And when you say, “I have no idea what I want.” They’ll say, “Well, come on in and let’s discuss it.

We’ve got lots of ideas!”

There’s a name behind the Westbrook Taylor name, and that name is Redway. Traci and Colby Redway. Traci’s in-laws started the business back in the ‘60s, so Traci learned early on how to find hard-to-find things, how to simplify complicated things for customers, and most of all, how to make people relaxed and happy. She is joined by her daughter Colby, now the third generation of Redways to successfully make Taylor Rental the shoreline’s go-to spot for...well, everything!

“We are both equipment and party rental,” Traci informed. “At one time we had everything under one roof, but we added so much inventory that in 2005 we moved the party rental business across the street, but we’re both still right here, ready to serve customers with whatever they want and need.”

And what people need varies so much that Traci and Colby invite people to come in to their location; or better yet, call and make a personal appointment. That way you can reap the extensive benefits that their years of experience have amassed.

“Brides usually know exactly what they want.

They come in here with pictures, and that’s great,” says Traci. “But we also can advise and

make suggestions for those who don’t know where to begin...and for customers at every level in between,” adds Colby.

Much as you would hire an event planner, wedding planner, or party planner, you’ll want to take advantage of the Taylor experience as much as possible. As opposed to an event or wedding planner, there is absolutely no charge for their services, just for the items you rent.

And rentals can be for as little as a few hours to a few days to even longer periods of time. Costs are adjusted to reflect this, so it makes even more sense to come in, sit down, and let Colby and Traci take the stress out of any plans you’re making.

“That’s what we do; what we’ve been doing for years. Parties and weddings are 99% happy events, so there should be no stress whatsoever. Let us do the worrying for you,” laughs Traci.

For those solemn events such as funerals, Westbrook Taylor Rental can assist in every way with everything from extra chairs for the service, to extra flatware and glassware for the collation that follows. What customers and potential customers need to know is there is no minimum order...you can rent one punch bowl for your party, or one larger table for your Thanksgiving feast, or a wedding’s worth of stuff for 500 guests! And that’s also the case across the street at Taylor Equipment Rental which is geared for both the sometime do-ityourselfer as well as the professional contractor.

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You can go online (www.westbrooktaylor.com) and browse their catalog if you’d like; but if you really want to explore all possibilities and options, you really must stop at 155 Post Road in Westbrook to see “what’s in store,” whether you’re planning on refinishing your floors, tearing out some shrubs, or tearing up the dance floor at your next party or event.

At Taylor Equipment Rental you’ll find both indoor and outdoor equipment from wallpaper and carpet steamers, to landscaping equipment, floor buffers, sanders, and strippers, snowblowers, paint sprayers, ladders, and anything else you can think of to build, improve, or renovate.

And while you’re there, spend a little time with Taylor’s official people greeter, “Mac,” a seven month old puppy who’s becoming the LeBron of the dog world.

This gentle giant will charm you while Traci and Colby de-stress you, consult with you, and take care of every single detail you’ve got on that list of yours.

So if you’re wondering if your Westbrook Taylor Rental has a cotton candy machine, linens in every shade of blue or green or pink or whatever you need, flatware, a popcorn or snow cone machine, leaf blowers, tillers,

trimmers, aerators, drills, mini stoves, big tents, little tents, small engine repair, archways, and more, just stop in or call and ask, “Do you have...”?

Yup, Taylor does!

Taylor Rental is at 155 Boston Post Road (Rt. 1) in Westbrook. (860) 669-2832 www.westbrooktaylor.com

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Fishing Gives Me The Blues

by John Tolmie

started pulling up porgy, sea bass, summer flounder, winter skate, and sea robin. It’s always fun to catch a variety of species, but the size of the fish just weren’t there on our first attempt. We ventured a little closer to shore where the water was a bit shallower. The bottom sounder picked up another nice school of bait fish. We again loosed the jigs to a depth of

J

une arrived, and it was time to make our first trip offshore. Ryan Proulx, Dave Hargus, and I loaded the boat with all of the fishing gear we could muster in order to land some fresh spring fish. There was a thick coating of fog on the route from Westerly, Rhode Island to the fishing grounds off the coast of Montauk, New York. The wind was out of the north; and it was raining, but the ride out was smooth as Ryan helmed his 31’ Contender with grace and ease.

Though in his late twenties, Ryan is a seasoned boat captain and has been fishing the New England waters since he was a child.

Ironically, as we headed south, the pelagics were migrating north.

Schools of bluefish and striped bass migrate seasonally up and down the Atlantic coast, and anglers from northern New England to the warm southern waters target these voracious predators where they come to feed on large schools of bait. When we arrived at the southeast point of Montauk, the bait was there! Ryan killed the engines, and we dropped our 6 ounce bottom jigs to 80.’ We

sixty feet and started to get some action. An hour into our trip I just happened to look back at the console and saw the sounder pick up a school of larger fish mid-water. So we brought our lures up to about 30 feet. That’s when Dave hooted, “Fish on!” It was exciting to see the rod bend and hear the reel whine as the line played out. Would it be a fluke, or a nice striped bass? After a few minutes into the fight the fish made a run to the surface.

“It’s a fat blue!” Ryan shouted as he grabed the gaff. After a few more moments Dave got the fish up to the boat, and Ryan brought it over the side. It was a nice 12lb bluefish! After high fives and some photos with the beast, we conPhotos by John Tolmie

25 tinued to fish. A few more fish were brought over the side, but the bluefish was the crown of the day. After four hours on a rainy and foggy day, we were cold and wet, so we decided to call it and headed home.

Bluefish are beautiful and rugged, but they often have a bad reputation when it comes to table fare. Most anglers catch bluefish and use them for bait when shark fishing or for baiting lobster pots.

However this underappreciated fish is delicious. Bluefish should always be bled right away and then placed on ice immediately if they are to be eaten.

Once home and before preparing it for the grill, I took the bluefish to our art studio for some Gyotaku. Translated from Japanese Gyo-taku means “Fish-Rubbing” and is a very old art form that started around the 11th century in Japan. Japanese anglers painted the fish with Sumi ink and pressed a sheet of rice paper over the fish. Once the paper was removed from the fish, a mirror image of the fish was emblazoned onto the paper as a form of advertisement placed over the fillets at the fish market. The process has evolved over the years and has now become a form of fine art.

In this case I did a negative study with white acrylic ink on dark blue handmade Mulberry paper. I was pleased that the fish cooperated, and the print came out very nice. After letting the print dry, I used the same ink to detail and highlight the print to make it pop.

Oil based inks can taint the fish and infuse the fillets with inedible toxins, so I always use water based inks to do my prints. This way the fish can be washed in cold water and cleaned for the filleting process. After cleaning the ink off the fish I filleted it and cut out all of the red or dark meat in the fish which is known as

the “bloodline.” The darker portions of the fillets are usually bitter and hold the majority of the toxins found in pelagic fish. It’s healthier, and the fillets taste “less fishy” when the bloodline is removed. This is especially true with Bluefish. It took some time to prepare the fillets for grilling; and once I was done, I called my good friend Marek, who is a local expert at smoking fish! Once Marek was on his way to collect the fillets for smoking I took the “rack,” or the carcass of the fish, and buried it in our garden. Fish racks are an incredible way to naturally fertilize your gardens. They need to be buried deep enough so that the forest critters can’t dig them out, but shallow enough to allow the nutrients to permeate the soil.

Since bluefish is a very oily fish it smokes very well and will always come out moist even after three hours in the smoker. Marek says, “I usually marinate my fish before smoking and add olive oil during the process. But the bluefish has a unique flavor of its own and doesn’t need any extra flavoring.” So Marek spent his Sunday afternoon smoking the blue and some local salmon. Later that evening he and his wife Xolchi dropped off half of the bluefish and some of his smoked salmon. My wife and I were grateful as we made a delicious bluefish pate and partnered it with some garlic bagel chips and a cold pint of Fishers Island Lemonade!

From sport, to art, to fertilizing, to the dinner table… I hope that when fishing gives you the “blues,” you will see them for more than just shark bait!

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The Maggie P...

“Was, and Still Is, Home” Profile & Photos by Caryn B. Davis

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here is a very intriguing red, ramshackle structure that sits among multi-million dollar houses in one of the most well-heeled and exclusive neighborhoods in the country.

And while this tiny summer home may not be considered as grand in scale as the pristine estates engulfing it, it is big on character and beloved by the family who owns it.

The Maggie P was originally built as a houseboat by a man named Peterson. Although not much is known about Peterson such as who he was or where he hailed from, it is known

that the boat was named after his daughter, Margaret.

The Maggie P spent her early life floating around South Cove in Old Saybrook. No one knows the exact date she was built; however, there is a reference in the 1974 book, “The Fenwick Story” written by Marion Hepburn Grant (and yes, that is Katharine’s sister), that residents first recalled seeing the Maggie P in 1900.

Houseboats on South Cove were not an unusual sighting. They were a respite for city dwellers who flocked to the shoreline to escape the oppressive heat of summer.

In 1910, the Maggie P was caught in a storm and drifted to her current location in the Borough of Fenwick. She was beached on a small island that is submerged twice daily with each tide. Abandoned, Al Butler, a local carpenter, moved himself and his housekeeper aboard and began fixing up the place. (There

was some speculation about whether or not Butler’s lady friend was really just his housekeeper, but that is another story)! Butler removed the original pontoons on which the Maggie P sat and set her aloft upon wooden pilings as she remains today.

“Al Butler was a man to take things as they come, doing odd jobs around the community,” wrote Grant in her book. “Since he paid no taxes and was a good fisherman, he and his housekeeper managed. In the summertime they sold bait fish. To say the least, the Butlers’ casual lifestyle was quite a contrast to that of other more affluent Fenwick residents!”

The next person to occupy the Maggie P was a river pilot named Michael Doherty.

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“We still have his pilot license hanging on the wall in the Maggie P,” says William Wightman, the current owner.

One day, Doherty simply disappeared. It is presumed that he fell overboard and drowned since he was around water all the time. But he never did resurface (no pun intended); and after seven years, he was legally declared dead, leaving behind an estimated $500

in unpaid grocery bills and back taxes.

In 1938, Mrs. Mabel Porter discovered the Maggie P while on a bird watching trip at Fenwick. It was love at first sight. She envisioned a cozy cottage that was easily accessible to her home in nearby Higganum in which to her spend summers at the shore. She made inquiries regarding the Maggie’s P purchase and was directed to speak to

Houghton Bulkeley, who was the Warden for the Borough of Fenwick during that period.

According to what Grant wrote in her book, the story goes like this: “Mr. Bulkeley had been

a captain in the 101 Machine Gun Battalion, 42nd Division during World War I. Mrs. Porter’s brother Hezekiah, a member of the same battalion, had been killed at Chateau Thierry. Houghton was sure that the sister of such a fine solider would be good Fenwick neighbor.”

In good faith, Mrs. Porter promptly paid off Doherty’s debt and agreed to pay yearly taxes unlike the Maggie P’s prior owners. And with that, Mrs. Porter found herself the proud owner of a houseboat, which has remained in her family now for four generations.

“When Mrs. Porter bought the Maggie P in

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1938 there was no catwalk, so the only way you could get to it was by rowboat. She wanted to be able to walk to the road, so she went to the Warden again and asked for permission to build it; and that is how the Maggie P got her catwalk,” says Wightman.

Also in 1938, Mrs. Porter happened to purchase hurricane insurance from a salesman for the princely sum of one dollar, even though her children, Wallace and Alice balked at the idea. “They all laughed at her and told her not to bother. No hurricane has ever come to Connecticut. Hurricanes belong in Florida. But since it was only one dollar, Mrs. Porter bought it anyway,” Wightman says. “Well on September 21 came the 1938 Hurricane, and the Maggie P survived. Some of the decks around her got busted up, but the insurance company fixed up what was damaged. She has survived all of the hurricanes ever since.”

Aside from the addition of the new footway, Mrs. Porter decided early on to preserve the

look and feel of the Maggie P because she considered her just fine the way she was.

Therefore, the Maggie P has never been updated, and the only changes that have been made during her 118-year history are some minor repairs and reinforcements and a refreshing of the paint.

After World War II, William Wightman returned home to his parent’s house in Old Saybrook when his tour of duty with the Navy had ended. He had to make a living, so he became a fisherman, fishing for scallops, oysters, and shad.

When the fish weren’t biting, he built skiffs in a shop that also fixed boat engines. One day Alice Porter entered the shop.

“She lived in Fenwick with her mother at the Maggie P of course. She had an outboard motor in there for repair, and it was finished. I was taking a break on the workbench and she asked if her motor was ready. I said, ‘It’s right next to the door’. She said, ‘If you were a gentleman you would bring it out to the car for me.’ So I hopped down off the bench and brought it to her car. When she got back over to the Maggie P she told her mother I wasn’t much of a gentleman because she had to ask me to carry her motor,” laughs Wightman.

Even if the young Miss Porter’s first impression of Mr. Wightman wasn’t the best, she did eventually marry him anyway, and they had two children together, Prudence and Porter.

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After quitting the fishing business, Wightman completed college at The Rhode Island School of Design where he majored in textile manufacturing. He was fortunate to land a

job as a textile engineer with the Albany Felt Company, which manufactured industrial felt for the paper industry. His job took him to Mexico, Holland, Brazil, France, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Canada, and South Carolina.

But of all the places in the world the Wightmans have lived, for this family, the Maggie P was, and still is, home.

“I cannot explain really how

fond our family is of the Maggie P,” says Wightman.

Nowadays the small sleeping cabins are filled with great-grandchildren who spend their summers swimming, boating, bird watching, and learning about their coastal environment just as Mrs. Porter’s children and grandchildren did.

“It’s one big playground. There’s no place else like it in the world that I have ever seen. It’s home. It’s our roots. It’s always been there for us,” says Prudence Wightman Sloane.

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1938: Devastation - 2018: A Jewel The Rebirth of Ocean Beach

By Carolyn Battista Photos by Vincent Scarano

T

here are lots of reasons why people love Ocean Beach Park in New London. There’s the half mile of “sugar sand”—lovely stuff along Long Island Sound, perfect for toewiggling, sandcastle building, and volleyball games. There’s swimming, in both the Sound and an Olympic pool. There are amusement rides, a boardwalk, a triple water slide, miniature golf, a kiddie spray park, a full service restaurant, snack bars, ice cream, a gift shop, a lively arcade, a peaceful nature trail, and numerous special events - classic car nights, magic shows, bands, fireworks, and more. Maybe most important, there’s a certain atmosphere. This is a low-key, familyoriented, come-on-in kind of place. “It’s oldschool,” says Dave Sugrue, the park manager.

About half a million people visit each season.

Dave and the staff are ready, even when 12,000

arrive on a hot summer Saturday. “We have room for everybody,” Dave says. “We’ll make them feel welcome.” Some visitors are local (as is Dave himself, who grew up nearby). Some just walk from home. Many come from around Connecticut and neighboring states. Others come from farther away; the annual polka festival in June has drawn enthusiasts from 26 states. Dave does recall meeting one unhappy visitor. She was most annoyed because she had to park in the “overflow” lot. Ignoring Dave’s

apologies, she informed him that this, her first visit, would be her last. Soon he noticed her on the boardwalk, looking out at the Sound and using her phone to tell someone, somewhere, “I’ve just found my favorite place in the world!”

This year is the park’s 78th season and also the 80th anniversary of the terrible event that led to the park’s development—the 1938 hurricane. In late September that year, the

40 bilities: cleaning up the mess, clearing an area, and building a brand new, well designed, family oriented park, with more than a touch of class. They set right out to make it happen. “It was a gutsy move,” Dave says.

storm roared over Long Island and into New England, bringing devastation. More than 700 people died, many more were injured; and buildings, docks, train tracks, trains, boats, and cars were smashed. The New London area was especially hard hit by wind, floods, and fires. At Ocean Beach, which had been a popular summer colony since the 1890’s, cottages, hotels, and businesses were destroyed.

But over the years Ocean Beach had become too popular. Originally quite genteel, by the 1930’s it seemed seedy, with run down, over crowded boarding houses, not enough parking, too many noisy establishments, and just too many people flocking in the hot summer to a place without room for them.

Somehow, as New Londoners looked over the ruins around them, they began to see possi-

The New London newspaper, The Day, covered this at the time; and in June 2015, Day staffer, John Ruddy dug into the archives and brought readers a two-part summary of how the park that people enjoy today came about.

The summary tells how, after city voters overwhelmingly approved the idea, things got going and kept going.

There were assorted problems of course, including working out compensation for owners of properties that still stood after the storm but had to be cleared for the new plan.

At one point there was a postcard protest from some disgruntled New Londoners. However, signatures on many cards turned out to be from citizens who were underground...in city cemeteries.

Planners of the new park admired Long Island’s Jones Beach. Favoring the architectural style called Art Moderne (an offshoot of Art Deco), they decided on park buildings with such features as rounded corners, horizontal lines, glass blocks, and nautical touches like portholes and ship railings. Construction began in December, 1939. There were setbacks along the way and some fast and furious work in the final weeks. But on June 30, 1940 the new Ocean Beach Park opened, with a 100 foot clock tower as its focal point. People came

on in. The tower is gone now, but efforts are underway to replace it. People are still coming. “They get addicted,” Dave says cheerfully. Local people especially, come year round. When the season’s over, there’s still a beautiful park (with inside event facilities). People savor the scenery, stroll the boardwalk, beach, and nature trail, and take small kids to the playground.

The park requires a large seasonal staff, and many locals recall their summer jobs there. Michael Passero, mayor of New London says, “I was a lifeguard for many years at Ocean Beach Park and rose to the rank of Lifeguard Captain.” He also remembers some off-duty activity with his cohorts, like “secret nighttime climbs.”

Dave says his best friend is a guy he met decades ago, when both were teen workers at the beach. This year the staff numbers 150; and “as usual,” Dave says,”no matter where they’re from, they come together.”

Local organizations pitch in to support the park. New London Beautification Committee members plant

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and tend the park’s planters and gardens, including the large one that boardwalk visitors admire. Over time they’ve added soaker hoses, a birdbath, and more. Tita Williams, who heads the committee says, “We’re New London residents who love our city and love gardening.”

Members tend some 25 city sites, but they consider Ocean Beach special. “Sometimes,” Tita says, “they just turn around and take in the view.”

(She adds that with so much to do, they could use more members).

The Save Ocean Beach group formed in 1995, when many worried about the park’s future. Since then the “SOBs,” as they’re pleased to be known, have undertaken

many projects, including work on the nature trail and playground, a “Buy a Board” campaign to support boardwalk rebuilding, the installation of numerous benches, and the rehabilitation of lifeguard chairs. Tom Quintin, chairperson, says, “We’re trying to help the park as much as we can.” The SOBs want Ocean Beach to be enjoyed by everybody always.

There’s now a welcome plan to replace the iconic Clock Tower. For almost 50 years families, friends, and romantic couples would simply say, “Meet me at the clock tower!” Kids who got lost would stand by the tower where their families could find them. But in 1988, the tower came crashing down as a team tried to lower it to work on it. “That was a sad day,” Dave says. He still treasures a clock hand he salvaged from the disaster.

Anna Lathrop, of the New London Rotary Club, says the club is raising “upwards of $500,000” for a new picnic pavilion to replace one lost to storm damage in 2012. That would bring back a structure that can shelter picnicking families and non-profit groups’ fundraisers and other events.

“The missing tower is a gap in the smile of Ocean Beach,” says Clark van der Lyke, a former City Clerk. He and Jeff Suntup, a New London businessman are working to rally supporters, raise funds, and put up a fine new tower. “Make this happen,” Clark tells people.

“Be part of New London history.”

It’s a history that includes the vision and hard work of New Londoners who trudged around wrecked structures 80 years ago, saw a fine new park, and made it happen.

For detailed info on Ocean Beach Park, including admission, attractions, facilities, and event schedules, see Ocean-beach-park.com.

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...All That Jazz Back in 2013 I attended Gratitude Festival, a relatively small event held in Massachusetts. I went for the funk, but instead followed my ear to the jazz stage where I was shocked to find out that I actually liked what I was hearing!

Developed from the origins of ragtime and blues, it is a wonderfully rich musical genre punctuated by syncopated rhythms, taking so many different forms.

Fast forward to 2015 when I had the good fortune to be invited by Dr. John and his musical

The first Newport Jazz Festival was held in 1954, and they are still going, some years selling out even before the gate. At 92 years young, you will still see George zooming around on his golf cart dubbed the “Lean Green Wein Machine,” presiding over the crew that brings it all to life at beautiful Fort Adams.

This year’s three day lineup is again vast, spread out over August 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Just a smattering of the headliners include Pat Metheny, Andra Day, Jon Batiste, and Grace Kelly - saxophonist, singer, songwriter - who has been creating all kinds of buzz with her appearances over the last couple of years here

Snarky Puppy 2015 - photo by Ayano Hisa

director, Sarah Morrow to the McDaddy of all events, The Newport Jazz Festival. Founder George Wein is not only credited with this first of its kind event, he went on to bring the New Orleans Jazz Festival and Heritage Festival, Playboy Jazz Festival, and the Newport Folk Festival to life.

in Connecticut and throughout New England.

Not to be outdone, the Litchfield Jazz Fest is a proud Connecticut tradition that fans flock to in droves. Now in its 23rd year with founder and executive director Vita Muir at the helm, the Goshen Fairgrounds will be alive with

innovative sets like the Tribute to Dave and Lola Brubeck by Dan Brubeck & Friends, making their first appearance on Saturday, July 28th. It is sure to be poignant for the famous couple’s son as well as for the many in attendance, some of whom were in the audience to enjoy the several appearances the legendary pianist himself made there before passing in 2012 at age 91.

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photo by Douglas Mason

In conjunction with all the incredible bands gracing the main stage over the last weekend in July, the “Second Stage” has become a favorite that now draws quite a crowd to check out the artist talks headed up by founding sponsor, Downbeat Magazine publisher, Frank Alkyer and the performances by the kids that attend the Jazz Camp.

The 22nd year of camp kicks off on July1st and averages about 300 students that come from all The Roots 2017 - photo by Brian Lima over the world. Many of these adolescents have gone on to college, success- The Greater Hartford Jazz Festival holds claim ful careers in jazz, and come back to play the to the largest free jazz event in New England. main stage. In particular, Vita told me about Bushnell Park is the setting for three nights Emmet Cohen the now 27 year old pianist and two days of world class jazz in the shadappearing with 89 year old Jimmy Cobb, ow of the state capitol on the performance who, by the way, played drums on Miles pavilion. An average of 50,000 guests come to Davis’ “Kind of Blue.” Emmet is also the help them celebrate, starting July 20th when force behind the multi-album project, The the gates open at 5pm until The Azar Jazz Masters Legacy Series, which he under- Lawerence Experience closes with the last set took to document and preserve the “inter- at 8pm on July 22nd. In a lineup that has many generational transfer of knowledge between standouts, Spyro Gyra, playing on Friday night, is one of the the oldest and the more recognizable youngest generation names. I would also of Jazz Musicians.” suggest making an Certainly a lofty miseffort to catch sion and the tenaJocelyn Pleasant and cious Vita Muir is the Lost Tribe, definitely doing her appearing Sunday at part by keeping this 4pm, if you want an festival and camp inspiring experience! thriving.

Food vendors and Art Market will also be part of the festivities, providing something for everyone.

Whether you are a lifelong fan or a jazz virgin, July is jumpin’ with opportunities to expand your musical horizons; and if you are in Connecticut, they are all within driving distance. For all the details on these events, please visit their websites and let them know you found the link in Ink!

http://www.newportjazz.org https://litchfieldjazzfest.com https://www.hartfordjazz.org

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“The Best Training Is Doing” Fine Arts Painter: Del-Bourree Bach by

by RONA RONA MANN MANN // photos photos by

by Jeffery Jeffery Lilly Lilly

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A

fter meeting fine artist, Del-Bourree Bach, one has the sense that if he were to donate blood, instead of Type A B, AB, or O coursing through his veins, the tube would contain tiny musical notes, paint brushes, pieces of arias, and the masks of comedy and tragedy.

For Del Bach is a true Renaissance man with absolutely no airs whatsoever. He knows, and is confident of, his many talents and therefore sees no reason to flaunt them...his work does that for him.

Sitting in the spring sunshine on the patio of his Mystic home, he is surrounded by what he loves most: his wife and greatest supporter, Kristen; a plethora of trees and shrubs, birds of all stripes feasting happily from the garden feeder, and at his feet on the patio are “Chief” and “Hager,” two rather large turtles that the Bachs rescued some years ago.

As Del’s story unfolds one can see the similarity between him and these turtles. As a young boy he was by his own admission “quite introverted.”

“Shewville Summer” - 12”x 19”

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“Pop up” 12” x 19”

Perhaps that’s why at age nine his grandfather began to teach the child basic drawing.

Del responded with great interest, and that

“Tidal Drifter” 30” x 24”

in a sense became his introduction to the arts.

He furthered his education with a degree from the Hartt School, the conservatory of the arts and performing arts at the University of Hartford. Bach immediately then headed for New York City and work as an illustrator.

“Initially I got my own first small jobs, but then I started showing my work to agents.

Eventually I got an agent which brought me work from E.P. Dutton, the New York Times, and McGraw Hill.” Along the way he took a foray into the theatre possessing an operatic bass that commanded attention. “I was both

“Bathing Beauty” 23”x 26”

unique and lucky to have two professions in the arts going at the same time,” Bach says.

But soon they began to collide. “I’d be on the road with a show in Kansas City, and my art agent would call with an assignment, which I couldn’t take...and vice-versa.” It was time to make a decision, so Del gave up illustration and by the end of the decade he turned to fine arts. He still had his hand in theatre at that time, and that is where he met his

“2017 06 09”- 18”x 24”

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“The Good Life”- 36”x 24”

future wife, Kristen, who was a professional theatrical director.

It was in the early 90’s that Bach began showing his work in galleries. He also remained for a short time in professional theatre, appearing in “A Christmas Carol” at Madison Square Garden for 7 years ending in 2003 “with a host of some pretty big stars.”

That artistic blood that runs through Del’s veins

goes back a long way...a very long way as he is related to Johann Sebastian Bach. The grandfather who started him drawing was also an artist, and Del’s mother was a professional pianist. “I was lucky enough to find out what I could do and then be able to do it,” Del says. Here is a man who is very much at home in his own skin. He and Kristen owned a gallery for several years in downtown Mystic, but made the decision to close three months ago. He seems to have little to no regrets.

He is enjoying his home with its adjacent studio

“Twilight Rest”

“Happy Hour”- 24”x 12”

“Quiet Harbor” 8”x 12”

where he applies a stringent work ethic to what he does. As to what inspires him, he laughs and picks up a sheet of paper. “Chuck Close the famous artist once said, ‘Don’t wait around for inspiration.

Inspiration is for amateurs – the rest of us just show up and get to work.’” Del continues in this vein by adding, “working from home it would be easy to kind of sit around in the sun or putter around the house, but I don’t do that. I am inspired by what I call the three D’s: The desire to work, discipline, and deadlines.”

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Bach also believes “the best training is doing,” so he works six days a week, every afternoon from 1-7PM. “I try never to forget this is a job.

Some days I might have to force myself to get going, but I always do it.” Although he has worked in watercolor, he prefers working in acrylics on Masonite. Even though he paints landscapes, people, and a good bit of nature, “I am primarily known for transparent water in my work.” Bach is also known as a fine artist whose work doesn’t hang long in those galleries – his work sells. “I manage to sell 90% of what I paint.”

Bach also believes in participating in competitions - “friendly competition.” He enters

approximately 30 of them each year and averages 9-12 awards annually; but his lifetime total is over 200! “The ones I don’t win, so what?” he laughs. “I go on to the next. I believe that people have skills, and you need to respect them for all of them, not just those of an artist.”

As for the future Bach wants to “work larger.”

He also wants to travel more, especially to Ireland. He serves on the board of the Lyme Art Association, American Society of Marine Atists, and the Providence Art Club, just to mention a few. And he wholeheartedly believes in giving back, so each year he donates some of his work to non-profits to aid in their fundraising efforts.

Del Bach, illustrator, actor, singer, gallery owner and now firmly established as a fine artist with his work hanging...and SELLING...in galleries from Maine to Florida.

“Afternoon Passage” 24”x 12” Del Bach who has a coterie of loyal collectors. Del Bach who readily admits “I may be 64, but I still have a lot to do.” And like the turtles that Kristin and he rescued so many years ago, he has emerged from his shell, stuck out his neck, and found a pretty darned good home.

Visit del-bourreebach.com for a full diectoruy of galleries that sell his work. Email: delandkristen@sbcglobal.net or by phone (860) 536-0486

“Shareholders Meeting” 13”x 36”

“What do you think?” - 15”x 10”

“The Beach Boys” - 13”x 9”

“Hauled Out” - 24”x 36”

“Suppers Waiting” - 18”x 36”

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58 The baby is newborn, maybe a week, maybe two. Round and wet and unable to fend for himself. Cannot care for himself. His mother is washing scrubbing rubbing combing every inch of him.

And when she finishes one end, working from his long spikey-wet tail, she turns him on the Lazy Susan of her belly and starts all over the opposite way, working from the head down. He opens his eyes. He has a sleepy look. She props him up on the water and dives, and comes back with a clam she breaks open and divides but does not share with him.

He is too young. But soon…

Anna’s Hummingbird

Mother and Son Sea Otter, Moss Landing Photos and editorial © Mark Seth Lender In the narrowed channel, slack tide, a mat of kelp or weed or bottom grass floats upon the surface without a notion of its own, captured by the absent-minded tug and turn of eddies underneath. It drifts, closer. Then, further. Catching in a spiral of water or an invisible puff of wind turning, and turning - and unexpectedly – Recognition: Mother and Son Sea Otter!

Then sea clam will be food to him, a taste of the taste he will follow all his life. When he is older and stronger and heavy enough to dive, he will learn to follow her down and down to the sandy bottom, and take a stone and crack the shell and recognize the shapes and smells. There will be a lot to learn. He is lucky. She will as mother otters do take the time to teach him. As much as he needs.

On a bare branch overhanging the shore, one Anna’s hummingbird is watching Mother and Son Sea Otter. From the sand bar, fifty willets, twenty-two godwits, one off-course Caspian tern, fourteen white-plumed snowy egrets and a pare of avocets are watching Mother and Son Sea Otter. An over-flight of three brown pelicans, their faces in the russet-red and yellow of breeding season look down on Mother and Son Sea Otter.

On the muddy bank, one newborn seal and her mother arch their backs, one like the other, feeling as close as Mother and Son Sea Otter.

And in my blue kayak, paddling in place - me too - I am there, smiling on at Mother and Son sea Otter, all of us just animals living and learning, and trying to get by.

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Field Note: It’s amazing how much time otters spend grooming.

Their hair is incredibly thick (estimated at 1,000,000 follicles per square inch) but it is not density alone that gives it such warmth. Those hairs trap air, and it is the large number of isolated dead air spaces that confer insulation value. Just like the insulation we use on our homes. It is never thickness alone.

But in order for that mechanism to function all that hair has to be kept clean. Dirty hair mats and clumps and looses that captured air. To maintain it cleaning must be both meticulous and constant, and has to be learned. Just like everything else sea otters have to do. The pup in this story, who was only days old, was already making his first attempt at grooming, using his little paws to rub his face.

Part of his transition to independence is to be able to handle his own hygene.

The other critical issue of course, is being able to fend for himself in the kelp beds and tributaries of Monterey Bay.

Sometime after a mother sea otter starts to feed her pup solid food he will try to follow her lead. She dives, he dives, but cannot follow. These attempts begin when the baby is simply not dense enough to force his way down. I would very much doubt they have the lung capacity, even if they could manage it. They pop up like corks.

Trapped on the surface unable to follow, they call out for their mothers, “Mom! Mom!” And that is exactly what it sounds like. “Mom! Mom! Mom!” as if they fear that she has left them. Or lost them. Or that they have lost her. In another year or so, they will. Loose her. For young sea otters life is a process of love, and loss. And they know it.

Mark Seth Lender is a producer for wildlife content at Living on Earth ( LOE.org ), the only program on US Public Radio exclusively dedicated to wildlife and environmental reporting.

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Authenticating “Lady Margaret” Photos and profile by Sloan Brewster Authenticating Lady Margaret

By Sloan Brewster When Mike Grayson* saw the gleaming eyes of a young woman looking his way, he ran toward her, thus beginning a journey of discovery.

said. “He spotted her face, and I knew something was up because he inhaled deeply and started running toward her. He knew.”

That momentous day was in January 2000, and Grayson was at the Stamford Antique Center looking at a painting that peeked at him from behind another.

What Mike, a collector of 19th century British portraiture, knew – or at least suspected – was that the painting was special, possibly the work of one of the masters.

“He has an eye. He spotted her from a long way away,” Caroline Grayson*, Mike’s wife,

“I’m very familiar with all the British portrait painters,” he said.

65 Paintings left to right, "Feeding time: by Philibert Couturier (French), Lady Margaret, "The Maiden's Suiter" by Alfred Seifert (Czech)

Self Portrait, 1788) by Sir Thomas Lawrence, PRA, Wikipedia

Exquisitely detailed, the painting shares an intimate moment between the woman and child, while at the same time conveying an unspoken longing. The work is alive and engaging, the expressions keen, the bodies though still, seem somehow in perpetual movement.

The portrayal of textiles also weaves a story. One can almost believe the coverlet draped over the young woman’s shoulders is floating off the canvas, tempting the viewer to reach out and caress the fine fibers.

Rifling through the pages of a book of Lawrence’s artwork, Mike pointed out that same feature in the folds of gowns on painting after painting. He pointed to Lawrence’s portrayal of Isabella Wolf.

Sitting at the top of that list of painters are four notable names: Thomas Gainsborough, Sir Joshua Reynolds, Sir Henry Raeburn, and Sir Thomas Lawrence.

Mike pulled back the top painting to reveal an oil on canvas which the art dealer had purchased from Sotheby’s in New York City. The large painting depicted a young woman wearing a feathered cap, a white satin shawl wrapping her shoulders and torso, her fingers grasping the tiny hand of a child.

Mike and Caroline purchased it, an unusual decision for the art lovers who usually get authenticated pieces from auction houses such as Christies and Sotheby’s. But not only had Mike fallen in love with the stunning work, he recognized touches reminiscent of Lawrence’s hand and felt certain it was he who had painted the young woman.

“Look at the brushstrokes,” he said, gazing up at the painting hanging in his living room between two others.

"The Kiss of Victory" by Sir Alfred Gilbert 1878 (British)

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"The Garden of Les Mathurins at Pontoise" by Camille Pissarro (French), William Merrit Chase (American), A.Charelle (Russian)

“Again, look at the satin,” he said. “He loves using the satin and the softness of her face.”

said. “I mean it just seems consistent with Lawrence.”

mystery.“It read ‘Lawrence,’” Mike said.“The next day I called the museum.

“Lady Margaret,” which Mike and Caroline have dubbed the young woman in their painting, shares a similar facial softness, resonant in Lawrence’s other works.

With no signature, it can be difficult to uncover the truth behind the painter’s identity.

Portrait painters did not, as a rule sign their

Mike found out that at the time of the bequest, the painting was attributed to Lawrence and entitled, Portrait of Lady Margaret, Daughter of the Earl of Kinnoul. In a letter dated March 20, 2000, Alexandra Ames Lawrence, research assistant at the museum, informed Jim that in 1949, the attribution was changed to Robert Edmonstone. In 1951, the title was changed to A Lady and Child “on the basis of research on the 9th, 10th and 11th Earls of Kinnoul, none of whom had a daughter named Margaret.” Then in 1978, the attribution was again changed to Andrew Geddes, “based upon scholarly opinion,” the letter reads. The painting was deaccessioned from the museum’s collection in 1992.

The hat with feathers is also a repeating fixture in Lawrence’s art. Mike pointed to a painting of Lady Peel by Lawrence, who is also wearing a black hat bedecked with feathers. Contemplative expressions are captured on the faces of both women.“They’re very pensive, deep in thought,” Caroline said.

Tasseled red drapery hanging behind Lady Margaret is another telltale feature used by Lawrence, who often added a hazy sky and lines of trees behind the curtains, conveying the sense the sitter was at a window or somehow inside and outside at once.

Mike and Caroline compared the child in the painting with Lawrence’s The Calmady Children. The color and lines in the lips, the redness of the cheeks, the angles at which the children are posed, all share a likeness. In painting after painting there were undeniable similarities.

“The expression on (Lady Margaret’s) face, the way he renders the fabric, the gaze,” Mike

Charles Leickert (Belgium)

“Lawrence,” it reads. “Bequest to the Museum of Fine Arts by Mrs. Robert D. Evans.”

Mike does not buy the reattribution and is convinced Lawrence is responsible for the painting. He’s further convinced by an episode of BBC Fake or Fortune, which investigated and determined that the museum attributed in error two John Constable paintings.

He believes the story could directly parallel that of his painting.

So began the Graysons’ quest to unravel the

Mike has been in contact with The National

work, Mike related. The back of the painting, however, revealed an inscription with a file number from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

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"A View of the Jodenbreestraat with the Rembrandthuis, Amsterdam by Cornelis Springer 1854 (Dutch)

Gallery of British Art in London for its opinion on the painting, but in a letter dated February 29, 2000, Anne Starkey of the curator’s office, informed him the museum has a policy of not authenticating paintings in private collections.

Correspondence with Cassandra Albinson, Acting Senior Curator of Paintings and Sculpture and Acting Head of the Department at Yale Center for British Art, also turned up a dead end, as Albinson has been too busy to inspect the painting, Mike said.

Grayson started collecting art in 1993.

In his collection, which spans three homes, he has examples of nineteenth century British, Czech French, Italian, Dutch and a Russian art, a Pablo Picasso lithograph, and a work by Salvador Dali.

He also has tapestries and sculptures.

What’s more, he also paints.

“Mike does more than collect art, he paints it as well,” said Caroline. “He did it during his stressful times; That’s when he paints the best actually. When he’s happy, he doesn’t do it.”

Despite impasses in their endeavors to authenticate Lady Margaret, Mike and Caroline surge onward with their pursuit.

Their next plan is to hire someone to take down the painting, which has hung in the same spot for 20 years and pack it neatly into a crate so they can bring it to London.

“We want to get on Fake or Fortune,” Mike said. “That’s our next goal.” *The names of the collectors in this story have been changed to ensure their security.

“Lady Margaret”

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The Cheesemonger 1

Paul Partica, The Cheese Shop, Centerbrook CT

My 2018 Top 10 List It is never easy to pick my top ten cheeses. (Should I expand to twenty or forty?) That said, here is the updated list for 2018, ranked by my thoughts at the moment and not in any particular order. Most of these cheeses are also top sellers in our shop.

1. Diva (Cow’s milk), from Arethusa Farms in Litchfield, Connecticut

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It is delightful to carry such a high-quality cheese from a farm so close to the shop. Diva belongs to the washedrind family, which explains its brownish exterior. I consider it one of the better choices in the washed-rind category.

This is a young cheese, similar to Brie, but with no visible core. I particularly enjoy Diva on a crusty baguette with thinly-sliced raw onion, much in the same manner that limburger (of the same family) is commonly served. I do not generally care for raw onions, but something about this pairing works very well for me.

You will find Diva to be small (about eight ounces) and square-shaped. This local cheese remains consistent in quality and I am seldom disappointed.

2. Ossau Iraty (Sheep’s milk), from France One of the oldest cheeses in existence, Ossau Iraty makes my list again this year. This cheese is made in the Southwestern region of France and carries an AOC designation (Appellation D’Origine Controlee). This means it is regulated by law to meet certain high standards. Ossau Iraty is an unpasteurized cheese, which only adds to its wonderful flavor. It will show a white or cream color, depending on its age of three-to-four months. Its texture is somewhat firm, with a subtle taste of nuts and olives and a creamy smooth finish. This cheese typically has no eye formations (holes), but they do occasionally occur. Butterfat content is 45 percent and wheel size averages eight to ten pounds.

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Pair this one with pears, apples, olives and assorted charcuterie, such as prosciutto and saucisson. I like a good Bordeaux, Rhône or dry Burgundy with Ossau Iraty as well.

3. Fromage D’Affinois (Cow’s milk), from France Fromage D’Affinois has made my Top Ten list every year so far, and it will likely continue to. This is not only one of my all-time favorite soft-ripening cheeses, but a consistent top choice for most of my customers as well. Unlike most imported, shelf-stabilized Bries and Camemberts found in the U.S. today, D’Affinois remains exceptionally rich and creamy. I especially love that this cheese continues to ripen in the store after arrival, allowing me to offer it for purchase at its peak. D’Affinois also maintains a fairly steady consistency, delivers a great flavor and is almost always readily available.

4. Ewephoria (Sheep’s milk), from Holland

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Ewephoria makes my list again, and not just because I love the clever pun in the name. (I always enjoy customer reactions when asked if they’ve had Ewephoria lately.) This cheese is still a relative newcomer to the world of cheese; it has been on the market for only about ten years. Ewephoria ages for almost a year, which is considered quite a long time for a cheese this small. With similar butterscotch whiskey notes, the taste reminds me of extra-aged cow’s milk Goudas such as Beemster XO. There is no gamey sheep’s milk taste in this cheese.

Ewephoria is well recommended when you are looking for something sharp, but different. It pairs well with hoppy beers, but I prefer it with Bourbon or a single malt Scotch. Try it on a burger or in Mac n’ Cheese.

5. Tres Leches (Cow, Goat and Sheep milk), from Spain Tres Leches is full of flavor and has become one of our top ten sellers, not to mention one of my all-time top ten favorites. This mild, semi-soft Spanish cheese is made from all three milks. In fact, the popularity of Tres Leches has risen so much that sales of Manchego, another more widely-known Spanish cheese, have decreased dramatically in our shop. Tres Leches comes in a small eight-pound wheel. An olive oil rub along the exterior of the rind not only lends itself to the color of the rind, but also contributes to its great flavor.

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6. Stilton (Cow’s milk), England Known as the “King of Cheese,” Stilton has been a favorite of mine for over 40 years. In this cheese, blue veining strikingly runs through a mild cheddar base. I like it as an appetizer, but it also makes a wonderful dessert when served with sweet butter, table water biscuits and a little vintage port.

By the way, an aging wedge of Stilton can be revived by removing the rind and making a paste of it with a little port wine until it becomes quite spreadable. Then, spread it on a slice of pear with a walnut or two over top. See my May 2018 column in Ink Magazine for more on this exceptional cheese.

7. Fresh Mozzarella (Buffalo’s milk or Cow’s milk), Originally from Italy

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Fresh Mozzarella is universally loved. Add a vine-ripened tomato, fresh basil and some good olive oil – and my night is complete. And where would pizza be without it?

Mozzarella was originally made from buffalo milk. In Italy, it still is. This version has a little more tang to it than the cow’s milk version.

8. Leerdammer (Cow’s milk), from Holland Similar to Jarlsberg, this nutty, mild Swiss-style cheese is so all-purpose, it has become a staple in my home.

Not only is it great for appetizers, sandwiches and all kinds of cooking, it makes a nice, mild fondue as well.

Leerdammer is made in a 20-pound wax-rind wheel. It has a moderate price compared to most imported Swiss cheeses, which also adds to its appeal.

9. Appenzeller Extra or Black (Cow’s milk), from Switzerland

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This very flavorful cheese from Switzerland has existed for over 700 years! Appenzeller ages in a bath of white wine and over a dozen herbs, roots and spices. It is also worth noting that less than two percent of Appenzeller’s cheese production progresses to the extra aged or “Black” version. In addition to being fantastic on its own, this cheese adds great depth of flavor to fondues.

10. Ford Farm Coastal Cheddar (Cow’s milk), from England This white cheddar’s greatness comes from its creamy smooth finish, with no bitterness or bite. Sadly, many domestic cheddars today are mass-produced in large 1000-pound stainless steel forms and aged for only year where the old method of aging took three years. The difference is discernable, and customers really appreciate the quality in this cheddar. Additionally, Ford Farm Cheddar costs about half the price of domestic varieties.

I always say, “Try before you buy” and this especially holds true for cheddars.

There you have it – my Top Ten list of cheeses for 2018. But If you ask me tomorrow…

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Paul Partica The Cheese Shop, 33 Main St, Centerbrook, CT 06409 www.cheeseshopcenterbrook.com

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THE NEXT CONCERTS IN THE GARDEN Thursday, July 26th, 2018 - The Ken Morr Band 7 - 9 pm & Thursday, August 9th, 2018 - Honey Hill Band 7 - 9 pm Seasonal concert series of eclectic international singer songwriter artists from cool jazz to blue grass. $20 suggested donation - BYOB and picnic Outdoor Bistro Style Seating in the Amphitheatre Inside the Gallery if inclement weather Arrowhead strings along on most Sunday afternoons. Find out about the Concerts in the Garden, First Fridays, Leifs paintings and more at Ar

www nilssonstudio com

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By Art LiPuma, General Manager SeaSide Wine & Spirits, Old Saybrook, CT

Burgundy Burgundy is a popular grape growing area in France, that produces some of the best Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs in the world. The main regions of Burgundy are Cote Chalonnaise, Chablis, Maconnais, Beaujolais, Cote D’Or which includes Cote De Beaune and Cote De Nuits. The predominant white grape that grows in Burgundy is Chardonnay with just a very small percentage of Algote also grown there. The main red grape of burgundy is Pinot noir with Gamay grape mostly grown in area of Beaujolais.

Red Burgundy’s are relatively dry and some have an earthy taste to them. Although not heavy or rich wines, they to, partake a lot of flavor. There is a large range in quality between the Pinot Noirs, starting with the ones sourced from different parts of Burgundy. The higher quality ones come from villages such as: Nuit St, George, Chamobolle-Musigny, Gevrey Chambertin, Beaune, Pommard, and Volnay to mention a few. All the producers from these areas put out excellent quality wines.

The soil and micro-climate also contribute to the quality.

A subdivision of Burgundy is called Beajoulais. The red wines from this area are made froma grape called Gamay, which produces a slightly fruitier wine than the Pinot Noirs but not sweet. These wines too, are light in body with notes of cherry, strawberry, and sometimes raspberry. The entry level Beajoulais is labeled Beajoulais Village, sourcing their grapes from different parts of the area. The better quality Gamay grapes are grown in one of the 10 Cru Villages, which are Julinės, Morgon, Chiroubles, Chėnas, Fleurie, Cŏte De Brouilly, Rĕgniĕ, Saint-Amour, Brouilly, and Moulin-Ă-Vent. These wines produce big flavors with light finishes which make them quite refreshing wines.

Some you can give a slight chill to. They pair well with spicy barbecue dishes. Typically, Beaujolais Villages can age up to 1-4 years, were as Cru Beajolais can age up to 10-12 years due to their complexity.

Don’t forget the Noveau Beajoulais which is the celebration wine of the first harvest released every November. They are very fresh wines in which by no means are worth aging.

The great whites of Burgundy have a vast range of complexity and quality. Starting with the large region of Macon where a lot of reasonable priced Chardonnay is grown. Wines are labeled under Macon Village Being sourced all over that area help to keeps the cost down. Most are fermented in steel tanks to give them a crisp finish.

Some are partially fermented in oak to partake a richer flavor. Most of the villages have their own particular style and taste due to the wine makers and soil composition. The Village of Chablis has a lot of limestone in the soil which transforms into the wine also giving it a mineral component to it. A great wine with many seafood dishes.

Mersault is a similar but slightly more complex wine.

Pouilly Fussie is a richer style wine usually fermented in oak to give it a full rich flavor. Wines from Rully are kind of both styles, with richness and a smooth Clean crisp finish. Some of the prestige wines are from Puligny Montrachet, Chassagne Montrachet, and are rich in flavor with a slight spiciness due to the aging in oak barrels.

Enjoy the summer and taste your way thru the wines of Burgundy France.

Cheers!

Art LiPuma Seaside Wine & Spirits, 118 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475

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By NoRa Cupcake Co.

Cakes by the beach ... and other delightful summertime sweets Ahhh summer…. filled with so many food activities like picnics, BBQ cookouts, eating ice cream fast enough so it doesn’t drip down your arm, toasting (or burning – whatever your preference) s’mores, slurping on watermelon wedges, and eating CUPCAKES (of course)! “What’s that”, you say?

“Cake in the summer?”. YES. And here are a few reasons why…

Our bakery team LOVES working seasonal ingredients into our cupcakes, especially when we pair them with non-traditional ingredients as well. For example, one of our all-time favorites is a beautiful cupcake we call CORNIE: a buttermilk vanilla cake that we bake with cream corn kernels. The cake is dense and moist. Delicate, but also hearty. We frost it with a sweetened condensed milk buttercream which is a perfect pairing for the corn based cake. It is not too sweet and very, very creamy.

It then gets topped with a pool of local, fresh blueberries, and rimmed with Corn Flakes cereal. The cereal adds a perfect light crunch. It’s almost like a breakfast cupcake, if that’s a thing (it should be) – cereal with fruit and milk. DELICIOUS. Other non-traditional ideas to create into cupcakes are summer cocktails (alcoholic and non) that have a fruit inspiration. One of our most popular and requested flavors is BLACKBERRY MARGARITA. We take our traditional vanilla cake base, zest some lime and add a splash or two of CT Local Juicery RIPE Margarita Mix to the batter, along with

fresh chopped blackberries. After the cakes are baked and cooled we core and fill the center with a tequila spiked lime curd, which is then all topped with a black raspberry and lime zested swirled frosting, and rimmed with a salt and sugar concoction. It’s a little boozy and a lot refreshing!

And of course you can’t forget ice cream and cake – they’ve been buddies for a long time! We love a lot of the creameries that our little state has to offer like Grassroots in Granby and J. Foster’s in Avon. They have so many creative flavors that it is easy to combine with whatever your choice of cake or cupcake may be. You can bake a basic vanilla, chocolate, or red velvet sheet cake and layer it by spreading ice cream in between the layers, adding some fillings like cookie bits, caramel sauce, fresh fruit, whatever your heart desires, and then finish it off by frosting the outside of it and freezing it. So refreshing after a big plate of BBQ on a hot day!

Keep an eye out for our monthly menu on our website www.noracupcake.com to see what flavors and local ingredients we’ll be highlighting each month. Also log on to our website to find us out and about all over the state, and even in MA and RI! NoRa Cupcake 700 Main Street Middletown, CT noracupcake.com

JULY EVENTS

80 July 1 - September 16 Old Lyme "Art and the New England Farm" Drawing on the agricultural heritage of Florence Griswold’s family estate and of the Lyme region and beyond, this exhibition examines the history and character of New England’s farms in works by artists from the 19th to the 21st century. Paintings, drawings, and photographs from public and private collections trace the challenges of farming in New England, with its rocky soil, and the pastoral landscapes crafted through intense labor. Landscapes by George Henry Durrie will receive special attention as influential representations that translated the New England farmstead into an American icon in the midnineteenth century. Tue.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

(860) 434-5542 florencegriswoldmuseum.org Florence Griswold Museum 96 Lyme St. Old Lyme, CT 06371 July 1 & July 15 Old Saybrook Upcoming baking classes at Dagmar’s Desserts: Sunday, July 1 Whoopie Pies Teenagers Only! Sunday, July 15 S’mores - For the Kid in the Adult. Please join us to these hands-on classes and learn how to make and bake a variety of desserts and pastries from scratch to finish.

Classes are held Sundays from 5 pm - 7 pm. Class size is limited to 8 - 10 students. Tuition: $75. Instructor: Karen Gumpel. Please register in person, by phone: 860-661-4661, or online at www.dagmarsdesserts.com. We also offer private baking classes. Please contact us for more information. Dagmar’s Desserts 75 Main Street Old Saybrook

Month of July - Branford Lenny’s Indian Head Restaurant. Sit back and relax on our large patio. The restaurant’s proximity to Long Island Sound has made it a popular gathering spot for boaters, vacationers and a loyal following of locals… Live music all month long.

Rubber Band July 6 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm- Live music on the deck 6-9 pm Greg Sherrod July 14 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm-Live music on the deck 6-9 pm Left on Scarlet Street July 20 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm-Live music on the deck 6-9 pm Shiny Lapel Trio July 27 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm-Live music on the deck 6-9 pm Muddy Rudders July 13 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm-Live music on the deck 6-9 pm Wayne and Chris July 28 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm-Live music on the deck 6-9 pm Please visit http://www.lennysnow.com/events for our full schedule of live music. Lennys Indian Head, 205 S Montowese St Branford, Connecticut 06405 www.lennysnow.com

Month of June - Westbrook Live Entertainment on the Water at Waters Edge Resort & Spa. Please go to watersedgeresortandspa.com/events for our complete list of events.

Rock on the Water – Eagles Tribute Thursday, July 5, 2018 Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm $10 in advance, $20 day of Playhouse on the Shore Dinner Show – What I Did For Love Sunday, July 8, 2018 Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00pm Cost: $59++ Rock on the Water – Allman Brother’s Tribute Thursday, July 12, 2018 Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm Cost: $10 in advance, $20 day of Playhouse on the Shore Dinner Show – What I Did For Love Sunday, July 15, 2018 Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00pm Cost: $59++ Playhouse on the Shore Dinner Show – La Dolce Vita Sunday, July 22, 2018 Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Cost: $59++ Rock on the Water – The Journey Experience Thursday, July 26, 2018 Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm Cost: $10 in advance, $20 day of W ater’s Edge Resort and Spa, 1525 Boston Post Road, We s t b r o o k , C T For info, call 860-399-5901 or visit www.WatersEdgeResortAndSpa.com July 4 - Mystic Independence Day Celebration. Celebrate America’s birthday circa 1876 this Fourth of July at Mystic Seaport. Enjoy boat races on the Mystic River, an old-fashioned spelling bee for children, and many other fun activities. Picnic alongside your 19th-century neighbors at noon and cheer for your favorite display in the Independence Day Parade at 1 p.m.

Young patriots can even craft hats to wear in their very own section of the parade! A rousing 1876 Independence Day ceremony will be followed by an elegant concert featuring the Mystic Silver Cornet Band. Play croquet with residents of 1876 Greenmanville in the afternoon and watch live theatrical performances by the Mystic Seaport TaleMakers. Help churn ice cream and reap the delicious rewards. And don’t forget to save some energy for 19th-century lawn games on the Village Green.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. The New England seashore is the perfect place to remember America’s 100th birthday and we look forward to celebrating it with you. Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Avenue Mystic, CT 06355 Adults $28.95, seniors (ages 65+) $26.95, youth (4-14) $18.95, children (3 and under) free.

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June 7 – August 29 Westbrook “Artists in the Making,” an art exhibition featuring works by students from the Barn for Artistic Youth at the Valentine H. Zahn Community Gallery at Middlesex Hospital Shoreline Medical Center. The Gallery is open during regular business hours and is located at 250 Flat Rock Place, Westbrook, CT. For more information, contact Middlesex Hospital at 860-3586200 or zahngallery@gmail.com.

July 6 New Hartford Riverview Concert Series: Dark Horse. New Hartford Recreation Department presents Free Summer Riverview Concerts on Friday evenings during July and August at the Town Center Pavilion along the Farmington River. Kick off your weekend and bring dinner from one of the local restaurants, chairs or a blanket and relax along the shore of the scenic Farmington River. 5 p.m.

New Hartford Town Center Riverview Pavilion, 530 Main St. New Hartford, CT 06057

July 12 - 15 - North Stonington 54th Annual North Stonington Agricultural Fair. The fair provides a fun, family-oriented event where folks of all ages can find something to enjoy. Learn about your agricultural roots, see how exhibitors work to train and show their livestock, visit the rabbit and poultry barns, sample some great foods, play some carnival games, enjoy the rides, visit the Blacksmith shop, see the exhibits and relax while enjoying some live music on the stage. Thu.-Fri 5 p.m.-midnight, Sat. 8 a.m.-midnight, Sun. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. North Stonington Fairgrounds 21 Wyassup Rd. North Stonington, CT July 13-15 Guilford Guilford Craft Expo 2018. Craft Expo 2018 is one of Connecticut's finest outdoor juried show of fine American craft.

Over 180 highcaliber contemporary artists from North America will exhibit and sell work, including jewelry, clothing, fiber, pottery, glass, leather, metal, paper, sculpture and wood. Activities and entertainment include a Family Art Tent, where children can create crafts and pick up an event scavenger hunt. There is also a silent auction of artist-donated works, student tent, artist demonstrations, and scheduled musical entertainment at the food court. Food trucks provide a variety of offerings to please all ages. Beer and wine will be available for purchase in the food court area. Shuttle bus service is available from the commuter lots at exit 58 off 1-95 or Adams Middle School on Rte. 77. Parking is also available at St. George Church for $5/day, directly across from the main gate at 33 Whitfield Street. Free on-street parking where available. Fri. noon-8:30 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. General admission $9, seniors $7, children (under 12) and active military with ID free.

Multi-day pass $15. Guilford Green 33 Whitfield St. Guilford, CT

JULY EVENTS

July 5-29 Ivoryton Grease. Dust off your leather jackets, pull on your bobby-socks and take a trip to a simpler time as Danny and Sandy fall in love all over again. It’s the original high-school musical, featuring all the unforgettable songs from the hit movie including “You’re The One That I Want”, “Grease Is The Word”, “Summer Nights”, “Hopelessly Devoted To You”, “Greased Lightnin’” and many more. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin’,” “It’s Raining on Prom Night,” “Alone at the Drive-In Movie” recalling the music of Buddy Holly, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley that became the soundtrack of a generation. So throw your mittens around your kittens and hand jive the night away with the show that’ll make you want to stand up and shout, ‘A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop, a-wopbam-boom! Theatre Address 103 Main Street, Ivoryton, CT 06442 Box Office Phone: 860.767.7318 info@ivorytonplayhouse.org

July 11 - August 1 Middletown Music at the Mansion Wadsworth Mansion. Due to the first Wednesday in July being a holiday, the concert series will commence on the second week in July and run until the first Wednesday in August. The season opens on July 11 with Rani Arbo and Daisy Mayhem.

On July 18, the Funky Dawgz Brass Band will perform. Mixed Signals will perform on July 25 and closing out the season on August 1, will be Shaded Soul Band. All of the concerts will begin at 6:30 p.m. The grounds will be open for picnicking at 5:30 p.m.

Parking will be at the Mansion, at the Wilbert Snow School, 299 Wadsworth Street, and at Mercy High School, 1740 Randolph Road.

Concerts will be held in light rain, or the threat of showers.

Concerts will be cancelled in electrical storms or threat to the wellbeing of the musicians or their instruments. A rain date of August 2 has been scheduled. At each concert there will be a variety food trucks offering light fare. Vecchitto’s Italian Ice, Franks Wood Fired Pizza, Perk on Wheels and Shishkabobalicious are scheduled for each week of the series. Wadsworth Mansion 421 Wadsworth St. Middletown, CT 06457

JULY EVENTS

82 July 13 - Ivoryton "American Folk Tales and Stories" Join storyteller Tom Lee and folk singer Seth Ginsberg for some classic stories and songs from America’s rich folk heritage. From farmyards to riverboats, from campfires to schoolyards, these stories and songs have engaged children of all ages for well over a century. Tom Lee’s stories will take your imagination on a magical journey, and Seth’s music will have your toes tapping. Come prepared to join in the fun and sing along. Warning: silliness may ensue. 11 a.m. $14. Ivoryton Playhouse 103 Main St. Ivoryton, CT

July 14 - Sept 8 Madison Summer in New England Susan Powell Fine Art. Opening Reception to meet the Artists: Friday, July 20, 5 to 8 pm, wine and hors d'oeuvres will be served. For the past 15 years, Susan Powell Fine Art, has hosted a summer invitational exhibition showcasing nationally-acclaimed artists celebrated for painting the shoreline and landscapes of New England. We are proud to present this new show of over seventy paintings of Marine art, seascapes, shoreline, marsh, and river views by twenty-five award-winning artists. The works range in style from traditional realism and Impressionism to contemporary and abstraction. The gallery is located at 679 Boston Post Road, Madison near the fire station. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am-5 pm, Sunday, noon-4pm, and by appointment. For further information, please call (203) 318-0616, email us at susanpowellfineart@gmail.com and visit www.susanpowellfineart.com to see works in the show.

July 13 - 15 New London Sailfest 2018 will be held July 13th-15th.

Sailfest is Southeastern Connecticut’s premiere summertime event, complete with a major fireworks display, amusement rides, free entertainment, ships, and over 200 vendors lining the streets. There will be plenty to see, buy, and eat, so make sure to come hungry and ready to try new food! Throughout New London’s waterfront park and nearby streets, you’ll find: MUSIC multiple stages of free entertainment with musical genres ranging in Dance, Country, Latin, and more. SHOPPING Locally hand-made crafts, art, clothing and jewelry are just a few of the things among the vast array of wares for sale from over 200 vendors lining the streets! FOOD Sailfest is the melting pot of event food. Waterfront Park & State Pier State and Bank Sts. New London, CT

July 18 - Haddam July Dessert Sunset Cruise. Join us aboard RiverQuest and take a relaxing evening cruise on the lower Connecticut River, departure from Eagle Landing State Park in Haddam. Bring your picnic basket and favorite beverage, family and friends. Observe how beautiful the river is at twilight as you dine.

Departs at 6 p.m.. At around 7:30 p.m., a variety of desserts will be served, including Captain Mark’s famous key lime pie. There will be only light narration on this cruise. $40.

Departs from Eagle Landing State Park 14 Little Meadow Rd. Haddam, CT July 25 - Farmington Sunken Garden Poetry Festival: Poetry of Our World, Featuring Solmaz Sarif & Javier Zamora.

Hill-Stead Museum’s renowned Sunken Garden Poetry Festival is a unique outdoor arts event that takes place on the grounds of this National Historic Landmark in the heart of Farmington. Visitors can come early to tour the museum’s world-class Impressionist art collection, walk the trails, or attend the Prelude interviews with headlining poets.

Poetry patrons also use the festival as an opportunity to relax and enjoy al-fresco food, drink, and like-minded company. Picnics are welcome and gourmet food and wine can be purchased from festival vendors. Guests can bring their own chairs and blankets and claim a spot among the flower beds in the historic Sunken Garden, 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. $15 in advance (online), $20 at the gate, youth (18 and under) free. Hill-Stead Museum 35 Mountain Rd. Farmington, CT July 26 - Chester Please join us at the Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Gallery at 1 Spring Street in Chester Center for a Concert in the Garden on Thursday, July 26, 2018 7pm - 9pm with The Kenn Morr Band: World Class Music From a Town You Haven’t Heard Of. http://www.kennmorr.com $20 donation - BYOB and picnic – Sorry no pets. GATES OPEN Half Hour before the show. For more info log onto nilssonstudio.com or call 860-526-2077.

July 28-29 Old Saybrook 55th Annual Old Saybrook Arts & Crafts Festival. The Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce is honored to host the 55th annual Old Saybrook Arts & Crafts Festival, one of the longest-running art shows in New England.

The juried show features outstanding art and crafts from nearly 150 exhibitors, representing 15 categories: Fine Art, Acrylics, Ceramics/Pottery, Graphics, Fiber, Mixed Media, Glass, Oils, Jewelry, Pastels, Leather, Photography, Metal, Sculpture and Wood. The Festival is generously sponsored by Liberty Bank. Old Saybrook is a town steeped in history, bordering Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River. Explore Main Street with its eclectic array of shops and restaurants. Admission and parking are free. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Old Saybrook Town Green 300 Main St. Old Saybrook, CT

Connecticut’s Premier Shoreline Entertainment Destination A Tribute to Eagles - July 5th Allman Brothers - July 12th Journey - July 26th

Summer

Jazz Brunch on the Sound

Thursday’s at 6:00pm

CKE O R H

T ON TER WA 2018

Outdoor Concerts

WHAT I DID FOR L VE Sunday July 8th & 15th

Sunday’s 12:00pm - 3:00pm

Themed Dinners

A Great Getaway in Your Own Backyard For Details and Reservations: watersedgeresortandspa.com 1525 Boston Post Rd Westbrook, CT 06498 (860) 399-5901

From Our Home To Yours Interior Design Services From SCB

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