M i l f o r d L i v i n g
Always There. Though the winds of change have taken their toll, the horizon has begun to brighten. The Milford Bank, your community bank, was you as the seas begin to calm.
Sail on in to one of our offices, call 203.783.5700,
L i v i n g
help your small business grow, we can help.
f o r
mortgage for your dream home, or a loan to
i s
From your child’s first savings account to the
M i l f o r d
there for you then and remains committed to
or visit us online at: milfordbank.com. The Milford Bank. Always There.
S p ri ng
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Member FDIC
2 0 1 0
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Table of Contents Features
Departments
Gulf Street M e M o r i e s Long time residents recall growing up in one of Milford’s oldest neighborhoods
M
By Cindy Papish Gerber
ilford’s Gulf street spans 1.7 miles. According to Google maps, it would take
thirty-two minutes by foot to walk from the north end (at Cherry Street), to the southernmost tip, where it meets Welchs Point Road. In that time, one would stroll past businesses; a cemetery; a school; a church; historic, modern,
and custom-built homes; several neighborhoods; a pond; a public beach; a fishing pier; and an unobstructed view of Long Island Sound that includes Charles Island. More significantly, the length of Gulf Street traces a line that mirrors the rich history of Milford.
early Beginnings
River’. We call this Old Field Lane today. We know
Karen allen
“Gulf Street was a Paugussett Indian trail long
that native peoples had their planting fields and
before it was a paved road,” offers Timothy P.
were encouraged to live here when more desirable
Chaucer, a retired certified American history
areas along the Wepawaug were purchased in a
teacher and director of the Milford Marine Institute,
series of land sales beginning in 1639 and ending
Inc. According to Chaucer, this precursor to Gulf
in 1661.” Excavations done from the 1920-1940s by
Street “intersected with another trail which began
amateur archeologist Ed Rogers are now a valuable
at Gulf Beach and headed easterly along the ‘Indian
part of the Institute for American Indian Studies’
As it has done for hundreds of years, the calm waters of Gulf Beach extend a warm welcome to fishermen of all ages.
22 Milford Living • Spring
22 30
2010 • Milford Living 23
Gulf Street Memories Long time residents recall growing up in one of Milford’s oldest neighborhoods. By Cindy Papish Gerber
Milford Library Lending books in Milford began almost 300 years ago. By Manny Strumpf
4 7 8 12 14 16 20 36 40 44 46 50 53 54 55 56
Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters At Your Service Milford Spotlight At Home Shopping Education Notebook Milford Morsels Arts & Artisans Senior Corner Historical Perspective Calendar Congratulations Expressions Where is It? Next Issue
ays There. Though the winds of change have taken their toll, the horizon has begun to brighten. The Milford Bank, your community bank, was there for you then and remains committed to you as the seas begin to calm. From your child’s first savings account to the mortgage for your dream home, or a loan to help your small business grow, we can help. Sail on in to one of our offices, call 203.783.5700, or visit us online at: milfordbank.com. The Milford Bank. Always There.
About the cover: For the cover of our spring issue, photographer Mary Hegarty Neschke presents us with an estuary view
of the Charles Wheeler Salt Marsh. The photo is entitled “Spring on the Charles.” Her work is available for purchase at MHN Photo Gallery on New Haven Avenue and The Canvas Patch in downtown Milford. Also you may view her work on display at
www.milfordbank.com
the Milford Fine Arts, Milford Library, Gallery on the Green, Milford Photo, and the Milford Chamber of Commerce.
2010 • Milford Living 1
spring 2010 Volume 7 • Issue 1 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill-Manning Suzanne@milfordliving.com
Editorial Director Ann McGuire Ann@milfordliving.com
Art Director Ryan Swanson
Photographer
Mary Hegarty Neschke
April Ongoing
Contributing Photographers
Flags, Flagpoles & Installation
Karen Allen, Lindsey Albritton, Chris Carveth, Bob Harrington, Kathryn Lutfy, Kathy Nemec Lucas
58 B Research Drive Milford CT 06460
Gracemary Avitabile, McKenzie Granata, Greta Stifel
Contributing Editors
Contributing Writers
marvindisplay.com
Joseph Barnes, Susan Carroll-Dwyer, Cindy Papish Gerber, Susan Glennon, McKenzie Granata, Kate Harrington, Pam Landry, Nick Olshansky, Manny Strumpf, Timika Therriault
203-877-8587
Production Assistance Zinelle, Lauren Dyer, Kevin Maher
Now is the time to let your patriotism bloom
Advertising & Communications Susan Carroll-Dwyer scarrolldwyer@milfordliving.com 203-283-5290
Web Design Zinelle Z1 Design
Interns
Ashley Avitabile, Ariel Lyon
Milford Living Magazine 162 Bridgeport Avenue Milford CT 06460 203-283-5290 http://www.milfordliving.com
Gallery
Stop in and browse–you might find something you just can’t live without
On The Green
874-6047
162 New Haven Ave
Milford Living Magazine (ISSN 1547-4429) is distributed quarterly by Red Mat Media. P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher. Subscription Rates: U.S. $19.80. Newsstand: $4.95. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460. Please allow six to eight weeks for subscription processing. Copyright 2003-2010 Red Mat Media. Opinions expressed in Milford Living Magazine articles and advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, respectively, and should not be considered as expressions of management or official policies of Milford Living Magazine.
Reasonable Custom Framing
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2 Milford Living • Spring
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"Once you find us, you'll be floored!"
publisher’s letter
Dear Friends & Neighbors, Welcome to spring and another issue of Milford Living.
Flooring Milford for over 50 years!
Spring is a season of change and growth; a time for new beginnings to blossom into the beautiful and unexpected. As we celebrate our seventh year of bringing Milford Living to our proud community, we look at the future as an opportunity to renew ourselves and continue to make Milford Living a magazine you look forward to receiving. To make that happen we need your help: tell us what you like, what you want more of and how—as a magazine—we can best serve you. We’ll work to make it happen. We have some exciting ideas of our own to help Milford Living grow, and look forward to continuing to provide you with the very best of our community. Thank you for bringing us into your home and your hearts. We love to connect with our readers so please call, send us an email, drop us a line on Facebook, or stop by the office.
We look
forward to hearing from you.
Wishing you new beginnings,
Suzanne
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4 Milford Living • Spring
Save the Date!
Milford Living Annual Kite Fly April 24th — 1pm-4pm Walnut Beach
Milford Living is happy to announce our 3rd Annual Kite Fly at Walnut Beach! The ConnectiKiters, one of the largest kite clubs on the east coast, will be participating again this year with their remarkable, breathtaking kites. Don’t be intimidated by the pros; anyone with a kite is welcome to join the fun. Pack a picnic lunch and watch as hundreds of colorful kites dance across the sky. The Milford Living Kite Fly is free and open to the public. Rain date is April 25. For more information contact Milford Living at 203-283-5290.
COMFORTABLE CARE C OMFORTABLE DENTISTRY CARE
DENTISTRY
203-876-9887 WWW.CTSMILES.COM 203-876-9887 WWW.CTSMILES.COM
readers’ letters I received my latest issue of Milford
We are glad to hear how this story touched
Thank you for your kind words regarding
Living and wanted you to know how much
your heart and we appreciate you sharing
the magazine and our window displays.
I enjoyed reading it. A special feeling was
how much you enjoyed it. We are very
Our window displays are coordinated by
created in reading the article about the
fortunate to have such interesting people in
Milford’s own Susan Carroll-Dwyer; she has
ladies who quilt. I enjoyed the photographs
Milford and equally clever storytellers that
such creative flair. Our display windows
and reading about why each one of them
write the words that bring those interesting
make us feel fun and festive too!
chose to quilt. Especially nice was the
stories to life.
student from Bridgeport University who is from Beijing who is showing her mother
I really enjoy your magazine and look
back home how she learned to quilt here
forward to receiving it. You do a great job
in the USA. I thought that was fantastic!
also with your window display. I live in
The title reflected it all: Blessed are the
Devon and enjoy seeing Devon coming
Piecemakers. Very clever!
alive. Thank you!
—Kathleen Kobishyn
—Marion Yazdik
Drop us a line… Please send your comments, contributions, suggestions, and questions to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460 or email us at info@milfordliving.com
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2010 • Milford Living 7
Mary Hegarty Neschke(2)
at your service
Smooth Seas M
ilford’s magnificent harbor is
a
popular attraction for boaters from
Flotilla 24-3 comes under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Coast Guard. It reports to Coast
Milford-based Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 24-3 volunteers on patrol of local waters.
the east coast and beyond. Boaters turn to
Guard Station New Haven, whose executive
the water for fishing and transportation,
petty officer appreciates the Auxiliary’s
them so much, in fact, that I began to attend
or merely to spend a day in the sun alone
voluntary activities. Richard Vetterl, a career
Flotilla meetings and became hooked.” Now
or with friends and family. To Timothy G.
Coast Guard officer, claims that Flotilla 24-3 is
she’s part of the Flotilla’s boat crew and
Mulherin, commander of Milford’s Coast
very helpful in numerous ways. “Not only do
handles new member orientations.
Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 24-3, however,
they participate in joint training with career
boating should not be taken lightly.
Coast Guardsmen, but also help train our new
Long Island Sound from Stratford to Clinton
Boating safety and shoreline security
personnel. When there are special events
and from Port Jefferson to Rockport on
are very important to the Flotilla’s fifty
on the Sound or along the shoreline, such as
Long Island. “During the boating season we
members. “That is why, when our vessel is
fireworks, they help provide security. They
are especially busy, as you may imagine,
in the water, we aren’t there for pleasure—
provide unbelievable service and are always
but ours is not a seasonal function. We
but to help ensure that every boat and
very willing to help and remain involved,”
work or are on call 24/7, 365 days a year,”
every boater, and numerous shoreline sites along Long Island Sound, are safe.”
Vetterl is not alone in praising Flotilla
Local Flotilla members regularly patrol
Mulherin points out. Flotilla 24-3 took title
24-3. Relatively new member Patricia Collins
to its newest boat, 31-foot vessel, in 1997.
recommends membership to other women
The fiberglass boat has a top speed of 22
Flotilla members put in more than 7,200
who are interested in boating. She also
knots and “is ideal for maneuvering in tight
volunteer hours, of which 1,400 were spent
has a high regard for the Coast Guard. “We
situations,” Mulherin asserts.
patrolling the Sound. In addition, they
train together and work together,” she says.
participated in more than 700 hours of
Collins heard about the Milford Flotilla
constantly during the peak boating
educational programs, as well as member
when she purchased a kayak two years ago.
season, it is kept ready to be pressed into
training, search and rescue missions, and
“My boyfriend handed me a brochure that
service evenings and in the off-season
getting the boater safety message out to the
outlined kayak classes the Flotilla offers and
when boaters generally do not take to the
boating public.
I enrolled. The classes were superb. I liked
water. Mulherin proudly points out that
Last year the Milford Coast Guard Auxiliary
8 Milford Living • Spring
Although the boat is in the water
in 2008, volunteers participated in two
long and who operate craft that are
water rescues involving seven boaters and
propelled by an engine to secure a boater’s
boats valued in excess of $50,000. “We do
license, requiring an eight-hour course
everything the Coast Guard does except law
that discusses water safety, navigation,
enforcement. All of our members perform
charting, use of navigational aids, sailing
their functions on a volunteer basis because
safety, and handling a craft in various
we enjoy what we are doing and want to
weather conditions. All of these courses
help the boating community,” the Flotilla
are provided throughout the year at
commander adds.
Flotilla headquarters. Since Flotilla 24-3 is
For years the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s
Flotilla headquarters on Helwig Street is the
a volunteer organization, it charges fees
primary function has been water safety.
location of boating and water safety courses.
ranging from $40 to $64 for each course.
To this end Flotilla 24-3 provides classes
“These fees, as well as donations, help us
throughout the year on such subjects as charts,
water temperatures and weather, and what to
cover expenses of running the Flotilla,”
navigation and GPS, the fine points of sailing,
do if weather conditions quickly deteriorate,”
Mulherin says. The Flotilla also conducts
and, recently, sea kayaking safety. “We even
says Mulherin.
free vessel safety inspections which help
provide tips on how to buy a kayak, safety equipment you should own, understanding
achieve compliance with governmental boating regulations.
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2010 • Milford Living 9
at your service
Although boating safety remains an important element of Flotilla 24-3’s daily activities, “Security is a big part of our new mission,” the commander says. The Coast Guard and consequently, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, come under the
Membership in Flotilla 24-3 is open to any American citizen between the ages of 17-80. Membership is eclectic and diverse.
jurisdiction of the Federal Department
dues are nominal. The Flotilla does not assign
hours per week to his Flotilla duties. It has,
of Homeland Security. Therefore, Flotilla
its members to a specific activity. The men
he says, become an important part of his life
24-3’s volunteer crews are continually
and women who comprise the organization
because he believes in the adage that “smooth
on the lookout for suspicious situations.
may choose from any number of activities
seas never make a skilled mariner.”
“We are in continual radio contact with
such as teaching, staffing the Flotilla vessel,
Coast Guard Station New Haven. The Coast
maintenance, and administrative and
Guard immediately responds if we feel it is
personnel tasks.
necessary or appropriate.”
—Manny Strumpf Flotilla 24-3 is located at 1 Helwig Street in
Milford’s Coast Guard Flotilla 24-3 does
Milford. Visit them online at:
require one thing more from all of its
www.a0142403.uscgaux.info. Contact them
American citizen between the ages of 17-80.
members—commitment. Mulherin sets the
by phone at 860-663-5505 or by e-mail at
Membership is eclectic and diverse. Annual
example, personally devoting at least 15-20
flotilla243@comcast.net.
Membership in Flotilla 24-3 is open to any
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New Life for a City Landmark
T
here is something about a diner.
From
their introduction in the mid-1800s
as a way to feed hungry night workers, to
success into other ventures, as did a few of
gathered the satirist, humorist, raconteur,
the past owners of the Milford Diner.
and over a post-prandial cup of coffee offered
The heyday of the diner was in the 1940s
leisurely contribution to discussion,” notes an
serving low-cost meals during the Great
when manufacturers incorporated the sleek
Depression, providing post-WWII GIs a way
design of railroad cars into their plans; these
to be their own bosses, and providing family-
stainless steel and enameled diners have
its invention by Walter Scott in Providence,
style meals to the expanding families and
become part of our collective image of a diner.
Rhode Island circa 1858. This is due in part to
communities of the 1950s, diners have served
Many such diners are listed on the National
the relative ease with which diners could be
as a quintessential reflection of America.
Historic Register and maintain their original
purchased and operated and of course, the
In the early days, diners were “night
appearance. Some operating diners, such as
enthusiasm that greeted the opening of a
lunch wagons” catering to the likes of late
the Fog City Diner in San Francisco, have mor-
diner. The arrival of a diner by truck was not
shift newspaper writers. These movable
phed into chic eateries, while others continue
unlike the arrival of a circus to a town—and
feasts attracted all types of entrepreneurs:
to stake their claim by serving traditional
as long as the owner was friendly and served
bookkeepers, builders, janitors, reporters; the
diner food with a dash of regional spice.
good food, he was assured a good income.
milieu was akin to the people who patron-
Diners are at once familiar in appearance,
observer of the early diners. The diner shows a unique endurance since
The demise of diners came with the intro-
ized it. The entrepreneurs who operated the
yet individual in reflecting the flavor of the
duction of fast food restaurants. The desire
wagons built on their successes by either
community. “Here all sorts and conditions
for quick and cheap won out over friendly
purchasing other diners or parlaying their
of men meet on democratic footing. Here
and familiar. While new diners still continue
12 Milford Living • Spring
to be manufactured, original builders like the
is a key part of the history of our city. More
Patterson Company (which manufactured the
than being a part of our collective memory,
Milford Diner) have closed. Yet the allure of
the Milford Diner is part of the personal
the diner remains; partly appreciated for its
history of the many people who have lived, or
unique architecture and partly because of the
still live in Milford.
human need to preserve things from our past.
The restoration of the Milford Diner and its
The American Diner Museum, which opened
eventual rebirth as a community-and-welcome
in 1996, is dedicated to the preservation of
center will allow the Milford Diner to once
diners. Beyond the stainless steel, tiles, and
Joe Macy, one of the early owners of the Milford
again be a part of our community. It will be a
neon lights; beyond the cultural antiquity,
Diner, works the counter.
place where, to paraphrase the early observer of
there is something else that draws us to diners: people. When we talk about the Milford Diner, we talk about having breakfast with parents,
diners, all sorts and conditions of people meet reflected the mores and tastes of the com-
on a democratic footing—the satirist, humorist,
munity and became a part of our life.
raconteur, politician, and lawyer.
Until it closed six years ago, the Milford
meeting friends after school at the counter, or
Diner, built in 1946, served an important
a special late night rendezvous. The Milford
community function. It was a place for people
Diner, like diners throughout America,
from all walks of life to gather, and its history
—Susan Shaw For more information on the Milford Diner restoration project visit www.themilforddiner.com.
2010 • Milford Living 13
at home
Celebrate Spring! A
fter a long, cold, and snowy winter,
be seeded directly into the soil. Water and
Mother Nature has awakened from her
weed your crops and watch them grow;
Enjoy Time with Our Feathered Friends
slumber and the world springs back to life.
you can enjoy fresh picked produce within
• There are roughly 250 species of birds
Trees bud, crocuses sprout, forsythia bloom,
a month or two.
in Milford. Large or small, colorful and
• Planted now, summer bulbs such as
clever, they are all interesting to watch, so
get out and celebrate! Not sure how? Here
anemones, calla lilies, dahlias, cannas,
break out the binoculars and your camera.
are some of our favorite ways to shed the
and fragrant freesia will reap rewards as
Observing these curious creatures is a great
winter woolies and enjoy the great outdoors.
the weather warms. These exotic-looking
way to relax. There are so many places in
and furry critters scamper about. Time to
flowers can make the heat of summer a
Milford to enjoy birds perching, nesting, or
Get in Touch with the Earth
treat, brightening beds and gracing vases
in flight, and of course, the Audubon Center
• Brighten your yard with some
in your home.
is a great resource for the novice birder.
smiling faces—plant pansies.
• Put up a birdhouse. There are many
These colorful purple and
charming domiciles for birds these days. If
yellow flowers can handle
you’re truly ambitious you can build a house
a bit of a chill and warm
yourself. Another way to welcome visitors is
your heart with their
to set up a birdbath, feeder, or both. Welcome
cheeky grins. Plant early and pinch off the faded blooms to ensure they flower into summer. • Sow some seeds. There are
the flock as they frolic, splash, and sup; it’s a great way to observe nature without venturing into the woods. • Make your way
a number of vegetables
downtown and
that thrive in early
park yourself on
spring. Beans, carrots, beets, broccoli, cabbage,
a bench by one of the duck ponds. Feed
horseradish, lettuce, peas,
the fowl with healthy,
radishes, and spinach can all
feathered-friendly
14 Milford Living • Spring
snacks like frozen peas, cracked corn, or
• Go fly a kite! It can be tricky, but
(they even taste pretty
duck feed pellets. The quacking, waddling
modern kites are pretty easy to
creatures gobble up every crumb that is
fly, unlike the paper and wood
thrown their way.
kites many of us grew up
family and friends
good if a bit charred). Dining al fresco with
struggling with. If you’re still
is a wonderful way
Put Some Spring in Your Step
having trouble, make your
to welcome spring.
• Rediscover baseball, America’s pastime.
way down to Walnut Beach
• On the porch,
You don’t need eighteen people to help you
for the 3 Annual Milford Living
get warmed up for the season. Anyone
Kite Fly. The Connectikiters
the beach, take
can imagine being a major leaguer with a
will be there and are always
some time to
spirited game of Wiffle ball. The distinctive
happy to share their tips for
whir of the Wiffle ball can only mean one
successful flight.
rd
sunshine. Read your
rivers and of course, Long Island Sound. Salt
Kick Back and Enjoy the Weather
or fresh water, the fishing is always good in
• Fire up the grill. Nothing tastes
town. As the old adage states, a bad day of
quite the same as your favorite
fishing is better than a good day at work!
foods grilled to perfection
1LR 8.09 CTC&G Ad LO1:1721LR 8.09 CTC&G Ad LO1
drink in the fresh air and soak up the
thing…spring has sprung. • Milford is graced with streams, ponds,
the deck, or at
8/14/09
9:13 AM
Page 1
favorite book, the latest issue of Milford Living, or just watch the clouds drift by. —Susan Carroll-Dwyer
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2010 • Milford Living 15
shopping
All that Glitters
A
re you ready to trade
some of that winter wool for a little spring bling? Looking for that
special something for a very special someone? Do you want the Easter bunny to leave an egg-
sized precious stone for that precious person in your life? How about giving mom a Mother’s Day she’ll never forget? In any season, jewelry makes the perfect gift and also makes a statement about the person wearing it. What’s more exhilarating than picking out the perfect jeweled adornment for a loved one? Creating custom jewelry is a skill that can take years to perfect but is well worth it to both jeweler and customer. Whether you’re looking for an elegant engagement ring, a unique baby bracelet, or a piece that you’ve designed for yourself, you are bound to find it in one of Milford’s local jewelry stores. Hebert Jewelers
heirloom, or creating a bold new piece. Louise
14 Broad Street
creates many of the new designs Hebert’s
203-874-3164.
displays and will never sell a piece that she
www.hebertjewelers.com
doesn’t like. (Daughter Rebecca also contributes
Hebert Jewelers has been a family business
one-of-a-kind designs.) Best of all, Louise and
since it was founded in 1953. Joe and Louise
Joe truly love their customers. If you ask Louise
Hebert, along with their jewel-adorned pup,
what her favorite piece of jewelry is, she’ll
Jack, are happy to assist any customer who
probably tell you, “All of them!”
visits them; whether it’s repairing an old piece of jewelry that’s past its prime, redesigning an
“It’s really our experience with each customer that makes every piece of
jewelry memorable,” says Louise. “We love celebrating life’s moments—whether it’s Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or a wedding—each piece of jewelry has to suit the event and the person who will be wearing it.” With the help of the latest technology, Joe and Louise now use a computer program Fine jewelry (like the topaz and gold pendant above) is a family affair for Joe, Louise, and Rebecca Hebert (and for Jack the dog too!)
16 Milford Living • Spring
which allows them to design custom jewelry
Vincent Jewelers
with the customer. From start to finish,
23 New Haven Avenue
customers see the results in about ten days.
203-882-8900 Vincent Hutter, owner of Vincent Jewelers,
get to know them on a personal level,” says
has an extensive collection of exceptional
Joe. “They love that they can see what we
jewelry—many pieces which he has designed
are designing for them and they can make
and created himself. When you walk into his
changes to it as they wish. And we’re very
comfortable store on the edge of the Wepawaug
honest—we really have an eye for creating
River (at the back of the SBC parking lot), you are
custom pieces.”
immediately captured by the dazzling display
The jewelry business is truly a happy one—for
of handcrafted necklaces, rings, and earrings
both customers and jewelry makers. A custom
available. Along with his jewelry, Vincent also
engagement ring, a new set of sterling silver
boasts some very interesting treasures: polished
earrings, or repairs to your mother’s favorite
geodes, agate bookends, and pieces of petrified
necklace will truly lift your spirits. Every piece of
wood—treasures galore for a collector!
jewelry has a story to tell, and Joe and Louise are more than happy to hear about it.
Lindsey Albritton (2)
“Our customers really trust us because we
Vincent Hutter
Take a look inside his shop and you’ll see, lined along every door frame and window sill,
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2009 • Milford Living 17
shopping
stones that sparkle in the sunlight and add to
It’s safe to say that no two pieces that Vincent
the allure of custom-made jewelry. “My favorite
designs are alike. With twenty-six years in the
aspect of being in the jewelry business has to
jewelry business under his belt, Vincent can
be that I get to create such distinctive pieces
appraise your estate pieces, identify gemstones,
with gemstones that are all so unique,” he says.
and craft one-of-a-kind custom jewelry you’ll be
“My customers can come in and tell me exactly
proud to show everyone you know.
what they want and I can fabricate it for them.”
Lindsey Albritton
J
Beautiful and unique handcrafted pieces are available at Vincent Jewelers.
ewelry is a fashion and as such it is always changing. While there are some classic looks that never go out of style—a strand of pearls, a four-pronged diamond engagement ring—other trends change with the times. This spring, women should look for bolder pieces: longer necklaces, layered rings, and thicker bracelets. Alternative metals such as stainless steel, titanium, or tungsten are all newly popular for men’s jewelry. No matter what you choose, a classic or new piece with flare, jewelry never goes out of style. Enjoy relating the memories that go along with your vintage jewelry and creating new ones with that new piece you just purchased. Put a smile on someone’s face—the gift that glitters is always appropriate!
Whether you’ve had a baby and bought a new car, or now have a teenager on the road, your insurance should keep up with your life. Call today for a free review to help you decide what protection is right for you.
Eric Grantz (203) 877-7901 1496 Boston Post Rd. Milford ericgrantz@allstate.com Come and compare your current policy with one from Allstate. Insurance subject to availability and qualifications. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, Illinois © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.
18 Milford Living • Spring
—Timika Therriault
Meadowside Mentors T
.G.I.F. has special meaning for Celine Sandor’s fifth grade class
at Meadowside School. From 12:10 p.m. to 1:10 p.m.
Mentors Mickey Johnson and Pat Magut (right) share their experiences with fifth graders at Meadowside School.
most Fridays you will find her twenty-three students huddled in small groups around four women who have volunteered
on a Friday and would be sad if anything interrupted her mentor’s
one hour each week for the past four years to mentor students
weekly visit. Ashley’s mom, Michelle Irvine, feels the experience
in Room 22. Though the students have changed over time, the
helped bridge the generation gap and gave her daughter a chance
outcome has not; children thrive on the attention these ladies
to see, beyond her own grandparents, that older people are fun
give them and leave fifth grade with many life lessons.
too. “The weekly visits help the children learn how to work in a
What’s special about these women is that all are senior citizens.
group—gaining tolerance for those students who might not be as
Several years ago the growing trend of cross-generation mentoring
willing to participate. It helped open Ashley’s world beyond fifth
caught Sandor’s attention. She recognized its benefits, including
grade,” explains her mom. “Ashley talks about Mickey often. We’ve
providing students with extra attention, guidance, support, focus, and
had a yearly breakfast date with her during February vacation for the
the ability to develop new relationships outside of their families. And,
last three years.”
as any mentor will tell you, sharing time with a child can offer older
On one particular Friday in Sandor’s classroom, children and mentors
adults the opportunity to be more productive and more connected to the
are engaged in different activities. Some groups are laughing, some are
community, allowing them to share their life experience and skills with
engrossed in games, and some are quietly at work reading or writing. One
the youth.
group of five girls explains how much they enjoy talking with Mickey
Sandor contacted the Milford Senior Center for the names of
Johnson while they eat lunch. They share family stories and are gently
members who might be interested in visiting her class and came up
reminded not to interrupt someone else who is speaking. “Manners are
with four willing participants: Barbara Burrows, Mickey Johnson, Pat
important,” explains Colleen, who quickly admits it is not one of her strong
Magut, and Ann Volderauer. It’s been a lasting relationship that she
points. “Mickey has taught me to feel good about myself,” shares Shelby.
would not trade for anything, and one that, for some families, has
These young ladies are clearly in their comfort zone.
continued once their children went on to middle school. Ashley Irvine, now in seventh grade, would never miss school
20 Milford Living • Spring
At another table, “Mrs. V.,” as Ann Volderauer is fondly called, is reading from a riddle book, encouraging her mentees’ use of creative
Mary hegarty neschke(2)
education notebook
thinking skills to come up with an answer. Simone expresses her gratitude for her mentor’s taking time from her busy Friday to visit. “She never lets us down,” Simone says. Her favorite activity thus far is show-and-tell, when everyone in her group shares something special to them. Mrs. V., a seasoned traveler, shared souvenirs that brought the outside world to the students’ fingertips. Sam’s mentor, Pat Magut, is a writer and has helped Sam improve his skills. “She has helped me be more descriptive and literal and encourages
plays are Burrows’ forte, explains Josh, who enjoys the small productions
me to write more often. I am definitely a better writer this year than in
the group has prepared for the class.
fourth grade,” he proudly says. The fact that Magut once coached football
The children all agree Fridays are special days at Meadowside School.
is not lost on this group of boys, who all describe her as being “cool.”
As their teacher relates, “You should have seen the students rush for
Kevin, who appreciatively describes Magut as “open minded to our
the door when the ladies arrived today. They hadn’t seen each other for
ideas,” enjoys the times she shares stories from her own writing class.
several weeks, because of the holidays and a snow day, and the children
In the back of the room the smallest and quietest group is busy reading
were going through withdrawal,” Sandor laughs. “You’ve never seen so
and discussing a book. It is obvious that mentor Barbara Burrows runs a
many happy faces!” That would be happiness all around: the teacher, the
tight ship and says she sometimes spends three days preparing a lesson
students, and the mentors. —Susan Glennon
for her Friday visit…although it’s not always all work and no play. In fact,
Great Beginnings PreSchool pre-K Tennis Yoga Music & Movement Nature Studies
Hours of operation: 7:30am-5:30pm Full and part-time programs
203-874-5000
100 Washington Street, Milford
www.GreatBeginningsPreSchool.com 2010 • Milford Living 21
Gulf Street M e m o r i e s Long time residents recall growing up in one of Milford’s oldest neighborhoods
M
By Cindy Papish Gerber
ilford’s Gulf Street spans 1.7 miles. According to Google maps, it would take
thirty-two minutes by foot to walk from the north end (at Cherry Street), to the southernmost tip, where it meets Welchs Point Road. In that time, one would stroll past businesses; a cemetery; a school; a church; historic, modern,
and custom-built homes; several neighborhoods; a pond; a public beach; a fishing pier; and an unobstructed view of Long Island Sound that includes Charles Island. More significantly, the length of Gulf Street traces a line that mirrors the rich history of Milford.
Early Beginnings
Karen Allen
“Gulf Street was a Paugussett Indian trail long
River’. We call this Old Field Lane today. We know that native peoples had their planting fields and
before it was a paved road,” offers Timothy P.
were encouraged to live here when more desirable
Chaucer, a retired certified American history
areas along the Wepawaug were purchased in a
teacher and director of the Milford Marine Institute.
series of land sales beginning in 1639 and ending
According to Chaucer, this precursor to Gulf Street
in 1661.” Excavations done from the 1920-1940s by
“intersected with another trail which began at
amateur archeologist Ed Rogers are now a valuable
Gulf Beach and headed easterly along the ‘Indian
part of the Institute for American Indian Studies’
22 Milford Living • Spring
As it has done for hundreds of years, the calm waters of Gulf Beach extend a warm welcome to fishermen of all ages.
2010 • Milford Living 23
The iconic view of Charles Island from Gulf Beach has changed little over the last few decades; (right) a multitude of architectural styles mark the
Bill Canfield
homes of Gulf Street.
collection in Washington, CT. “There were
is 330 Gulf, the Elizabeth Sanford Pond/
a quieter, more private setting,” Dumraese
major discoveries of Native American artifacts
Coggeshall House, which dates back to 1772.
recalls. Somehow, Dumrease Sr. foresaw the
in the Gulf Beach area,” says Institute director
Coggeshall (1758-1851) was a noted sea captain
many changes that would come to Gulf Street
Lucianne Lavin, Ph.D. State archaeologist
who sailed between Milford and the West
over the next several decades.
Nicholas F. Bellantoni, Ph.D. at the Connecticut
Indies. He deeded the home to his daughter,
Archaeology Center at UCONN, corroborates the
Elizabeth Sanford, who married into the
put together a slide show that demonstrated
data. “Site files and maps show six archaeologi-
town’s esteemed Pond family. Presently,
the impressive range of Milford home styles.
cal sites in the Gulf Pond/Gulf Beach area,” he notes. “These include pre-contact Native American camps and village sites.” Believed to be a Wepawaug site, Bellatoni reports that the lack of scientific evidence cannot conclusively attribute the excavations to any specific tribe. Indeed, the first land purchase of Milford in 1639 was made between native Indians and Alexander Bryan—a descendent of Elijah
The late city historian Rutheva Brockett
“I was born here and grew up here. My parents bought it in 1939. My dad, who had a great love of Milford history and a passion for antique homes, restored this place.”
Bryan, who served in the Revolutionary War
Sandy Dumraese and his wife Maribeth
Many examples are found on Gulf Street.
and was also a local schoolteacher. The Elijah
Hayes are the proud homeowners. “I love
“There were small cottages, saltbox or lean-to
Bryan House (built in 1790) still stands at 250
this house,” Dumraese says. “I was born here
styles, center chimney, center passage,
Gulf Street. Other notable antique homes on
and grew up here. My parents bought it in
half-gambrel, Dutch gambrel and many
Gulf Street include the Anthony Stow House
1939. My dad, who had a great love of Milford
varieties in between,” she wrote. “Previously,
at 234 Gulf Street (1790) and the Stephen
history and a passion for antique homes,
it was thought that these styles occurred
Atwater Treat House/John C. Connor House at
restored this place.” Amazingly, right after
chronologically, but studies show that they
172 Gulf Street (1798), which was once used as
the purchase, his father jacked up the entire
were built in overlapping periods...depending
a dorm for the old Milford Academy.
house in order to move it back 50 feet from
on monies available and peoples’ tastes.”
According to the town Historic Resources
the sidewalk. “Every brick was reassembled,
Inventory List, the oldest house on the street
each plant and shrub replanted, to allow for
24 Milford Living • Spring
The folks who flocked to Gulf Street and the vicinity moved there for many reasons. As a
main thoroughfare, Gulf Street served as a way in and out of Milford. Decade by decade, new homes and subdivisions sprung from empty lots. Families grew, friendships were forged, and lives transformed.
Growing Up on Gulf “I can remember in the fall, coming home from school and people were burning leaves,” recalls Robert Wels of 160 Gulf Street about his elementary school days. “My home was built in the early 1900s. It was completely different back then,” he notes. “We played baseball on the old Milford Academy field, where St. Mary’s School (72 Gulf Street) now stands.” Jane Fowler, who lives right off of Gulf on Bayberry Lane, has fifty-nine years of memories. “I can remember so many fields, the farmhouses, and open spaces,” she says. Barry Bonessi couldn’t wait to move with his family in 1994 to his 157 Gulf Street address. “I grew up in Milford always thinking that Gulf Street would be a great place to live,” he shares. “The old elm trees…the big houses. Ours was built in the 1920s by Dr. Buckman who saw patients here. It’s still a great old neighborhood.” Art White’s 215 Gulf Street home can still be found on an 1855 map. “There were five other houses here, all part of a farm,” said White, who turns ninety-eight this June. According to White, his house “was the slaughterhouse and next door was a meat market.” White, who raised eleven children here with his wife, bought his home from the Clarks. “They turned this into a two-family house with the understanding that when it was sold, it would be reverted back to a one family,” he recalls. The location of the house, close to town, schools, and the beach, was a he still enjoys the amenities. “All I know,” he says about Gulf Street, is “it’s considered the top spot in Milford.” Bob and David Gregory’s stories of growing up a stone’s throw from Gulf Street on 60 Commodore Place are chock-full of baby
Mary Hegarty neschke (3)
big selling point to the Whites in 1946, and
2010 • Milford Living 25
Mary Hegarty Neschke
boomer nostalgia. Paper routes; sandlot sports; Red Cross swimming lessons; fish, vegetable, and ice cream trucks;
spent at the beach; their memories of life in the 1940s, 50s, and early 60s are vivid. “We fought WWII in the fields and on the edge
ve Courtesy Da
unleashed; and hours
Gregory
neighborhood dogs
“We fought WWII in the fields and on the edge of Gulf Pond, I used to kid Gerry Stevens, who grew up across the pond. We had rival teams and played sandlot football and baseball.”
of Gulf Pond,” recalls Bob
“We walked to it and spent many happy hours
playground for his youthful escapades. “After
Gregory. “I used to kid Gerry Stevens (former
there,” he continues. Boys being boys, they
the house and barn on Gulf Street, there was a
state rep and candidate for governor), who
“loved to climb out on the breakwater to the
wide open field bordering and extending the
grew up across the pond. We had rival teams
mouth of the harbor and watch the boats go in
length of Commodore Place,” Dave Gregory
and played sandlot football and baseball. Then
and out.” Younger brother David, who served
begins. “At the end of the field, Mr. Lyon (with
he bought a house on what was [once] our
as “water boy for my brother’s generation of
permission), cut an area for his garden and
home plate on Driftwood Lane.” Gulf Beach
football players,” remembers when Driftwood
our baseball games. It was a sort of a gulley
was the center of the boys’ childhood universe.
Lane —aka ‘Merwin’s Field’—served as a
with a sumac forest and wild blackberries—a
26 Milford Living • Spring
grows stronger every year, which has posed a challenge for the city and the Department of Environmental Protection. The two have consistently worked to relocate sand from the high parts of the beach to counteract the effects of wind and water erosion. Even Courtesy of Benjamin Blake
in winter the beach’s silent sentinel—the lifeguard stand—is a reminder of brighter, warmer days to come. The place where sand and sea meet Gulf Street’s lawns and landscaping has always been a favorite. “I loved the area and enjoy thinking and talking about it,” writes artist Maryanne Maier
(Left and above) Milford Academy and its environs were part of the neighborhood stomping
about the house she designed and built in 1977
ground for students as well as locals; (inset photo) Bob Gregory and younger brother David
at 465 Gulf Street. “The place was described in
knew every inch of the beach where they spent so many hours with their neighborhood friends.
the Milford Citizen newspaper ‘as the last piece of property before the land dropped into the
foundation from an old barn. We slid down
the school,” she remembers. “We went through
sea.’ There I painted and gave art lessons for
the slope backing up on Captain’s Walk. Our
a bad time with enrollment in the Depression,
many years; it was my happiness.” George and
foxhole was a step better than my brother’s
but in the 50s, we hit our peak. Our reputation
Marolyn Paulis now enjoy the fabulous views
generation—we had a roof. Both generations
was fairly prestigious and we were quite known
maintained a path through the cattails to the
for our football team.” During the 1960s, the
rock point into Gulf Pond.”
school went coed; Rosenbaum’s daughter Ellen is a proud member of the class of 1971. Today, the
School Days
school site belongs to the City of Milford, and it’s
To many others, Milford Academy (form-
possible for newcomers in the neighborhood to
erly the Milford School, originally The Rosen-
walk past those buildings and not grasp what
baum School), was an important symbol of Gulf
once transpired behind the stately façade.
Street’s past. From 1916 through 2002, the school, founded by Yale graduates Joseph, Samuel, and
A Beach for All The tradition continues as the next generation
Harris Rosenbaum, was located on the corner of
Like it has for decades before, Gulf Beach
Gulf Street and New Haven Avenue—property
hums with activity in warm weather. Fisher-
that once comprised the William S. Pond estate.
men cast from the pier that juts into the
At its inception, the Milford School was a
sound, salty gentlemen gather for conversa-
from the decks of the house they moved into
preparatory program for aspiring Yale applicants
tion at the snack bar, kayakers launch their
twelve years ago.
the Rosenbaum brothers successfully tutored
boats, children dig for buried treasure, and
many star high school athletes. As the school
amateur photographers gather for another
traffic, bridge construction, and various
flourished, it attracted applicants from across
stunning Milford sunset (one of the best
weather hazards that come from living so
the country. Most of the boys were boarders,
places to catch it). Michael Jacobsen of the
close to the water has not altered Marolyn’s
but there were day students as well. Some of
Milford Recreation Department, comments
love of the area. In fact, her description
the more famous alumni include actors Vincent
on this special piece of paradise: “Gulf Beach
reflects the thoughts and emotions of many
Price, Efrem Zimbalist, Jr., and George Murphy
has great views of the harbor and Charles
Gulf Street residents, past and present. “It’s
(later to become a California senator), and busi-
Island and Gulf Pond; it’s a top spot for
like living in a postcard,” Paulis says of her
ness executive Philip Pillsbury of Pillsbury Mills.
fishing and kayaking. Behind the pond is
scenic Gulf Street perch. “But I’d like to think
Selma Rosenbaum lived in one of the homes
an egrets’ nest and we have even had an
that the entire Gulf Street neighborhood
next to the campus with her late husband, David
occasional seal!” The popularity of the beach
retains its wonderful feeling of community
‘Bud’ Rosenbaum. “My husband’s father started
has not decreased over the years; in fact it
and the historic beauty of Milford.”
casts its line from the breakwater.
Even dealing with summer crowds, beach
2010 • Milford Living 27
Kathryn Lutfy (4)
3rd Annual Kite Fly April 24 ~ 1pm to 4pm
T
he 2nd annual Milford Living magazine kite fly
are welcome to participate. The ConnectiKiters
astonishing dips and twirls. See a wide variety of
will take place Saturday April 24, 2009 at Walnut
will be there once again with their remarkable,
kites from simple diamonds to incredible colorful
Beach from 1pm to 4pm (rain date April 25).
dazzling, kites. The ConnectiKiters are masters
creatures. Come one, come all to this sunny, fun,
Children of all ages (yes, that includes adults!)
of flying and they maneuver their kites into
family friendly event.
Help us celebrate Living in Milford! For more information call 203.283.5290
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Milford 30 Milford Living • Spring
“If I have to spend time in purgatory before going to one place or the other, I guess I’ll be all right as long as there’s a lending library.” —Stephen King, author
Library Lending books in Milford began almost 300 years ago By Manny Strumpf
A
Chapter 1: Bringing Books to All s far back as 265 years ago, residents of Milford were
able to borrow books from a local library. The first library in town was called just that: The First Society Library. It
was established in 1745 at the First Church of Christ and members paid an annual fee and were required to post a security bond for each borrowed book. Back in the day when books were considered a luxury in many circles, the library’s collection included tomes on sermons, travel, history, and philosophy. However, it wasn’t until 113 years later, in 1858, that the town’s first continuous library service without interruption got under way. That year, the state of Connecticut charbooks and lectures. That library operated until 1894 when it was replaced by the Taylor Library.
Norman mcgrath
tered the new library service Lyceum, to provide education through
2010 • Milford Living 31
For eighty-one years the Taylor Library was a small but comfortable resource and appeared to be adequate to meet community needs. Branch libraries that opened in Devon (1928), Wildermere Beach (1939), and Woodmont (1946) were closed later in the century. However, as the city grew and its needs changed, residents realized that a new library was necessary in order to move it into the modern age. According to former Mayor Alan Jepson, by the 1960s the old library had outlived its usefulness. There wasn’t room for a children’s library (which had to be housed at a separate downtown location), there wasn’t access for the disabled or for parents with strollers, there was inadequate space to house historic books and maps, and there was no off-street parking. Most importantly, says current Milford Library director Jean S. Tsang, there wasn’t room for growth. In the mid-1890s, Henry Augustus Taylor, who (along with his siblings) built the Mary Taylor Methodist Church on the Milford Green in memory of their mother, offered to build a new library with the stipulation that the town provide land for it. Occupying the northwest corner of River and Broad Streets in the building that now houses the Chamber of Commerce, the new Taylor Library was completed at a cost of $25,000. The formal dedication took place on February 2, 1895. Unlike the first library, there was no membership fee or required bond
“No other civilization, ever, has had anything comparable to our public library system.” —David McCullough, author & historian
or security deposit in order to borrow books. Within the first week of operation, more than 250 library cards had been issued and more than 400 books were borrowed. Later that year, records show that there were 824 borrowers and 6,322 volumes on the shelves—many of which had been donated by local residents.
Chapter 2: Supporting City Growth “Growing up in Milford, our population was 10,000” recalls Ed Kozlowski, who served as mayor following Jepson. “When I was elected mayor in 1969, the population had grown to 50,000. Yet the same small Taylor library had served the city since 1895.” One of Kozlowski’s early
Children’s librarian Suzanne Harrison-Thomas
administrative decisions was to establish a library study committee to
(above) encourages young readers like
determine the need and site for a new library. Jesse James Hamblin,
Alexa Darak.
a well-known local architect who had designed many area schools, volunteered to serve, as did head librarian Stanley Carmen. Much credit for the committee’s success is attributed to Carmen, whose exhaustive records fill several file drawers in Tsang’s office. The present 339,072 square foot library building overlooking Milford Harbor at New Haven Avenue and Shipyard Lane was built at a cost of $2 million and was dedicated on July 4, 1976—the American Bicentennial—with a starting collection of 85,000 volumes. Tsang says that registration and circulation tripled during the first week.
32 Milford Living • Spring
Kathy nemec lucas (4)
Since then the library has continued to grow and shift with the times. The traditional 3 x 5 catalog cards have been replaced by computerized data.
collection are maps of Milford and a history of Yale published in 1855. Anyone may use this section since it is open to the public. Not all of the library is for reading. The public meeting room is
In fact, the library is now driven by technology. Books may
open to organizations and has been used for lectures, book reviews
be reserved by computer from home
and discussions, even political debates.
or office and (because of statewide
A monthly genealogy meeting is held
affiliations) a book not available at the
throughout the year on the first Monday
local library can be requested from any
of each month. Residents also enjoy the
other library in Connecticut. The library
art exhibits that change regularly. Artists
director further highlights the ability to
are selected on a first come, first served
download books by computer.
basis. The library also provides space for
Although the library boasts many
community notices and displays.
modern facilities and services, not
According to Tsang, the economic
everything there is modern. The
downturn has actually brought increased
genealogy section, for example, contains
interest in the library’s computers and in
books and maps dating back hundreds of
readership. Last year there was an overall
years. Included are city directories dating
usage increase of 16 percent including
back to 1928, histories of Bridgeport, New
loans of books, the number of periodicals,
Haven, and other towns, and military
DVDs, and books on CD. In 2009 almost
histories dating back to the 1860s. A
23,000 people came to the Milford Library
number of books were published as early
as compared to 19,000 the previous year.
as the 1720s. Centuries-old town maps
Tsang attributes the growth in part to
have been stored in special cabinets to
tight family budgets; many residents
protect them from moisture, mildew,
Dan Jardin takes advantage of the library’s bright light
on limited or fixed incomes find it more
and damage. Among other items in the
and quiet atmosphere.
economical to read the daily press and
2010 • Milford Living 33
Chris Bacchiocchi helps library patron Kenneth Jamias locate a book.
“The richest person in the world — in fact all the riches in the world — couldn’t provide you with anything like the endless, incredible loot available at your local library.” —Malcolm Forbes, publisher out-of-town newspapers at the library than to buy papers, and are borrowing more books than they had in the past since book prices have, in some cases, become prohibitive. It is rare, says Tsang that anyone complains about the content of a book in the library. When controversy engulfed a nearby town’s library last fall after it purchased a book about the murder of a local woman and her two daughters, there was no clamor for its removal here. “It’s there for anyone to read. If they prefer not to read it, that is their choice,” she adds.
The Next Chapter: The Future and Beyond Jean Tsang and the rest of the Milford Library staff and volunteers are looking towards the future. Goals for 2010 include continuation of the library’s many varied and dedicated services; improving the public’s perception of the institution; adding computer training for the public; and using library revenue grant
34 Milford Living • Spring
Tom Harkness is one of many Friends of Milford Library volunteers.
funds to purchase laptops. “We have seen a marked increase in patrons who require assistance with basic computer skills,” Tsang
explains. “Many of these individuals are job seekers who need to
set up email accounts and fill out job applications online. Some are seniors who ask for assistance in setting up basic email accounts. It’s our goal to hold classes that will teach basic computer skills. The lab also will facilitate staff training.” Not only has library usage and the size of its inventories changed, but the types of reading materials requested by the public has changed as well. “The public is savvier than in the past,” says Tsang. “It’s more information hungry. Books on history and cookbooks are popular, as are magazines with specialized focus. One elderly woman asked for help in finding a specific recipe. When she noticed that I was having difficulty fulfilling her request, she said, ‘Never mind. I’ll go home and find it on the Web,’” the director chuckles. kathy nemec lucas (3)
Times do change. Milford’s libraries date back before the American Revolution, and during that span of time our libraries have grown, diversified, and continually provided new and better benefits to residents. “Our libraries have, for a long time, been a hidden resource,” says Jean Tsang. More than just a building housing reference books, Milford Library is a vibrant part of the community that has earned,
Mayor Jim Richetelli takes time for story hour with young constituents
and continues to earn, a treasured place in the heart of the city.
during “Snapshot Day.”
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55 Old Gate Lane, Milford, CT • SensitiveCare.net
Mitchell I. Quintner • Kristin Helms • Karey Rainey-Maxwell • Alex Quintner • Michael Wiener • DMDs 2010 • Milford Living 35
All Things Asian I
n Chinese, tengda means prosperous .
With excellent food, attentive
staff, and striking décor, it is clear that this Tengda will live up
to its name. The subtle façade in the Milford Marketplace Plaza belies the grandeur that awaits inside. The space is cavernous, almost daunting, but upon closer examination, functional sections emerge. There is a sizeable hibachi area in the back, a centrally-located sushi bar,
Bob Harrington (3)
milford morsels
and a highly polished main dining area. A traditional bar resides behind a partition, although its styling alone sets it apart; glitzy and glamorous, the 30-foot backlit marble bar has a Manhattan feel. Discovering a cosmopolitan bar in a small town is a great find; wouldbe train fare to the city can be spent on cocktails instead. Servers move quickly and sushi chefs work furiously, eager to please as they offer all things to all diners. The breadth of Tengda’s appeal requires an industrious staff, creating a somewhat bustling ambiance. If you eat with your eyes first, then the décor is a delicious first course. Funky fixtures, snappy accents, and stylish columns, like installation art, set a modern tone. This clean beauty is matched in the food’s presentation—each dish a feast to behold. The combining of national cuisines often risks overreaching, but Tengda masters Chinese, Japanese, and Thai specialties with ease. The quality of the food is undeniable and the convenience of the cuisine of three cultures under one roof is a treat. Currently, Asian combo dining is a hot trend. Large groups and families have the selection they need to please everyone. “The Southeast Asian cultures work well together,” explains restaurant manager Kenny Heen. Bold flavors and fresh ingredients create harmony among the three cuisines. Midday diners can choose from a variety of lunch specials. House
Tuna, salmon, and red snapper sushi and sashimi accompany the popular,
special rolls are creative combinations of flavor wrapped edible
piled-high Dynamite Roll.
works of art. The Spicy Tuna Sandwich ($13.95) is a great twist on an
36 Milford Living • Spring
American classic, served between triangles
the red clam and the red snapper sushi. The
of sticky rice to conjure the image of its
earthiness of the fish was enhanced by the
white bread counterpart. Spiked with
wasabi and pickled ginger that was added
avocado and tobiko and finished with
liberally to every bite. “People like sushi
perfectly pink soy paper, this is one dressed
because it is so healthy,” explains Heen,
up “sandwich.” I enjoyed the Dynamite Roll
pointing out that fish-loving Japan has one
($13.95), which includes the ever-popular
of the oldest populations on Earth.
spicy tuna mixed with yellowtail and
Tengda is part of the Asian Bistro
piled high with a topping of spicy crab and
Group, which owns a growing number of
crunchy tempura flakes.
these bistros across the state, although
Sashimi, meticulous medallions of
the Milford location is the only Tengda
stand-alone raw fish, is the ultimate test
that offers Hibachi. “It’s great for kids
of quality and freshness. As each piece of
and families,” says Heen. Skilled hibachi
rich salmon sashimi melted in my mouth
chefs cook with theatrical flair, ensuring
like butter, Tengda passed this test with
an enjoyable dinner show as shrimp
flying colors. Another favorite, the Spanish
Server Sylvia Wang and manager Kenny Heen
fly through the air among blazing onion
Mackerel sushi, was equally sublime, as was
proudly present fresh offerings of the day.
volcanoes. Ten tables, each accommodating
2010 • Milford Living 37
milford morsels up to eighteen people, fill up fast on the weekends. The food is fun, flavorful, and a great value with soup, salad, noodles, vegetables, and rice served along with each entrée—including those from the children’s menu. “We came to Milford to give families a nice place to go that is close,” manager Heen explains. Expertly prepared right before me, the Chilean Sea Bass ($24.95) was tender and well seasoned and the Aged New York Strip Steak ($22.95) was cooked to order and sliced for devouring. Western desserts sneak onto the menu, such as the gooey Chocolate Delight ($7.50), a triple threat of chocolate lava, cake, and ice cream to satisfy even the most desperate chocolate lover. One dessert with an Asian flair is the Flaming Ice Cream ($7.50), green tea ice cream and tempura bananas engulfed in a fleeting flame—a dramatic way to end an exciting meal. A fine selection of after dinner drinks and dessert wines are also available. Consistent with its “all things to all people” approach, Tengda will be adding nightclub hours on Saturday nights beginning in the spring. The spacious interior, complete with a V.I.P. area, can easily accommodate a D.J. and dance floor. Close to home with a full late
Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence –Family Owned
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667 Bridgeport Ave (Rt.1) •Milford, CT 06460 (203) 874-6509 • www.armellinos.com
38 Milford Living • Spring
The modern stylings of the main dining room and sushi bar promise equally artistic meals.
Bob Harrington (2)
www.Armellinos.com
Catering to banquets and social functions Accommodations for over 250 people
Open for Lunch & Dinner Daily 72 Broadway Milford, CT 06460
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Phone 203 878-6688 Fax 203 877-2051
at a glance Tengda Asian Bistro and Hibachi
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Dining Style: Casual Cuisine: Asian
Address: 1676 Post Road (Milford Marketplace Plaza) Website: www.asianbistrogroup.com Phone: 203.877.8888
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11:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
100 Lansdale Avenue at the corner of Route 1, Milford 203-882-1400 www.bin100.com
Special Services: Outdoor dining also available.
2010 • Milford Living 39
arts + artisans
Seeing the Forest through the Trees J
oining internationally acclaimed mixedmedia artist , sculptor,
and writer, John
M. Carnright in his Gulf Beach home for a cup of coffee is like catching up with an uncle who has been on extended travels. He has varied stories of his past experiences and travels; the many galleries he has shown in, other artists he has met, countries he has visited, objects he has collected, and pieces he has created along the way. In short, John Carnright, like the rough stones he incorporates into his sculpture, is a gem. His work—ranging from oil paintings to wood sculpture infused with unpolished gems and fossils, and even photo chemicals mixed with paint on paper towels—fills his home. Carnright’s art surrounds him in a way that is accessible: there is a comfort and familiarity to his work—an ease and understanding. All of this reflects his feeling that art is something to be shared. Carnright has lived and traveled throughout the U.S., Europe (including Eastern Europe in the 1980s), and Peru, and has left some of his work behind along the to be an artist, Carnright is modest, but frank. Prior to the 1970s, although he admired art, he had no interest in “doing” art. It was when he became fascinated with some photo chemicals and Japanese inks that he was compelled to experiment.
40 Milford Living • Spring
Mary hegarty neschke (3)
way. When asked about his inspiration
“As a result,” Carnright says, “I became
The inspiration for
life. This is one way that Carnright
trapped—in an enjoyable way—I became
“Primitive Futurism” is the
shares with us what it is like to feel
trapped in doing these things.”
quagmire of what happens
nature again.
Carnright’s backyard is like a forest with
to the future of man and the
In keeping with his theme, Carnright
sculptures for trees; totem-like monoliths
environment if we forget
authored what he calls “a futuristic,
in a series called “Primitive Futurism” made
about our past. Carnright
environmental, sci-fi novel” based
from fallen logs that are deeply carved and
postulates that man was
on “a society that is trying to negate
infused with 40,000 to 450 year-old fossils
once more in tune with
nature—and doing a pretty good job
and raw gems such as ammonites, raw
nature and could sense
at it.” Called Aria Hahn, the book is a
rubies, megalodon shark teeth, emeralds,
it, much as an animal can
project in which Carnright has been
cave bear fossils, amethysts, petrified wood,
sense an upcoming storm,
engaged since the early 1970s; it was
sperm whale fossils, and more. As Cartright
but that we have forgotten.
published in November, 2009. In the
says, “These sculptures are where they are
Although he does not
supposed to be—they will deteriorate and
sculpt faces or limbs, his
return to the earth.”
compositions are full of
novel, the society is “a little messed up—they are eliminating nature in their galaxy and earth has been
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arts + artisans a strong example for them. They
to share his art and message through
have decided that nature is more
readings of Aria Hahn. A manifestation
of a hindrance than a help, and
of his long-standing appreciation for
they can live in a synthetic form of nature—and they’ve done an extremely good job of attempting
the earth and man’s relationship with nature, it has been said that Carnright was an environmentalist before
it, but they’ve lost sight of certain
environmentalism was cool. What’s even
natural consequences that come of
cooler is the positive impact that this
that.” It is what he calls a “design book,” including thirty-two color art plates and an accompanying symphony written by a Los Angeles
Milford resident has on the world he lives in and everything and everyone around him. —McKenzie Granata
composer. As is his nature, Carnright plans
For information on book orders,
to travel near and far (from the
readings and signings, or to view
local Starbucks, to the University of
artwork/sculptures, please email John
Massachusetts, and on to Europe)
42 Milford Living • Spring
Carnright at jmcarnright@aol.com.
Diets Don’t Work! Dr. Paterna Helps Local School Nurse Lose 35 Pounds in 10 Weeks With All Natural Cleanse Joanne Montz, a local school nurse, is one of many local residents who have great success losing weight with an AllNatural Liver and Kidney Cleanse. Supervised by Dr. Matthew D. Paterna of Shoreline Family Chiropractic and Wellness, countless patients over the past four years have regained their health and vitality with this ALL-Natural Cleansing Program. “Between the cleanse and my adjustments, my mind is clearer, I’m sleeping great, my headaches are gone and my energy is back! Oh, and my clothes fit great”, says Montz. The BIGGEST mistake most people make is that they attempt to lose weight by trying faddiets, eating less or taking dangerous supplements. Unfortunately, these are all short- term, solutions and most of the time the weight comes back because we never address our body’s toxicity. FACT: Every week we are exposed to more than 82,000 environmental toxins, which come from the air we breath, the 10,000 additives and preservatives in our food, our water, household cleaners, cosmetics and medications just to name a few. All of these toxins enter our body. If our liver and kidneys (our body’s filters) are unable filter these toxins, the body produces fat to store these toxins. Fat keeps the toxins away from our vital organs and blood stream. This is the fat that surrounds our midsection, liver and kidneys. What if you never cleaned the filters in your car? Would it run well? Of course not! By cleansing your liver and kidneys you produce less fat and burn the fat you have.
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senior corner
Centered on Seniors
B
ehind the many services
in Milford targeted specifically to seniors,
there are hundreds of people who make those services possible.
Two programs in particular, both of which are run under the auspices of the Milford Senior Center, provide essential services to the elderly and their families, and are managed by ladies of vast skills honed by many years of working with seniors. The Milford Meals-on-Wheels (MoW) program and The Ahrens Program are guided by dedicated professionals who provide extraordinary services to our seniors. Milford Meals-on-Wheels coordinator Marie Wierzbicki-Vaughn, a sixteen-year employee of the Milford Senior Center, loves her job, as one can plainly tell by the exuberance she brings to work every day. “We are really unique,” she says when discussing the Milford MoW program. “In every other program, as far as I know, including the whole state, caterers are used. We don’t.” Instead, Milford’s program uses Milford Hospital to “fill specific dietary requirements for each client. Every client receives a
Ahrens Center program coordinator Rita Whiskeyman with volunteers
doctor’s order outlining the particular diet that person needs.”
MaryAnn Hiza and Eileen Torow.
“Discussion groups, chair exercises, Wii games, ceramics, and many other activities are regularly scheduled…”
to make a donation of $1.75 per day or $8.75 per week to cover the cost
The program is personalized in other ways. Marie and the two
of the one hot, balanced meal per day they receive, which consists of a meat, vegetable, starch, and dessert, as well as milk (or ginger ale) and bread and butter. In what she calls her “own separate unit of the Senior Center,” Rita Whiskeyman, an eighteen year veteran of the Senior Center, serves as coordinator for the Ahrens Program, which provides recreation, nutrition, and educational activities for older adults with cognitive impairments—providing family caregivers with several hours of respite
full-time delivery people, Bonnie McAllen and Wendy Fletcher, develop
while the participant is supervised by staff members and volunteers.
close relationships with most clients. “There is a very tight relationship
Open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., potential
between us and the clients,” says Marie. “They are like family.”
“clients” are interviewed with social worker Jean Kaluzynski. “Each
Actually, Bonnie and Wendy are closer than many families are. Marie
client must be able to feed and toilet themselves and if he or she is in a
estimates that 75 percent of clients do not receive visits from anyone
wheelchair, must be able to maneuver independently,” explains Rita.
else. Additionally, individual clients must be Milford residents and are
Many planned programs take place, led by Rita and her two
considered to be on the program temporarily, though on a rare occasion
part-time staffers. Discussion groups, chair exercises, Wii games,
it can be extended in unusual circumstances.
ceramics, and many other activities are regularly scheduled, as are
The MoW program is equipped to deliver up to sixty meals per day.
local trips to schools, the beach, and shopping. According to Rita,
“We cover the whole city, from Marsh Hill Road to the Housatonic
the participants also do community outreach. “We will write cards
River, from the shore to the Orange line,” says Marie. Clients are asked
to people, reaching out to hospitals and rehab where some of our
44 Milford Living • Spring
clients are, or write letters to soldiers overseas,” she explains. Generally accommodating up to thirty people per day, participants (who must be Senior Center members) are also served lunch (at a suggested donation of $2.00 per meal). Just as importantly, their regular caregivers are able to get a few hours respite and know that their loved one is well cared for. Like the MoW program, the Ahrens program is unique and has been recognized as such. It has won many prestigious awards and was written into the Congressional record by Representative Rosa DeLauro. Owing much of their continued success to the men and women who keep the programs running, the Meals-on-Wheels and Ahrens programs are distinctive in their fields and provide large benefits for a relatively small cost. What could possibly make them better? You. Consider volunteering and call 203.877.5131 to see how you can help. —Nick Olshansky
Girl Scouts from a local troop donate their time to play games with some of the seniors.
Call us with any questions… We truly want to help. David J. DeRubeis – Managing Partner Thomas J. Cody Jr. – Funeral Director Kevin W. Cody – Funeral Director Rodney C. Varney - Funeral Director Renate Eastman – Staff Gina M. Caseria – Funeral Director Melissa Panas – Staff
Cody-White Funeral Home
107 Broad Street on the Green, Milford (203) 874-0268 • www.codywhitefuneralservice.com
2010 • Milford Living 45
historical perspective
Milford and the Indians O
n February 23, 1639, for the price of
assessed for varied converse with the Indians,
strong fortress with flankers at the corners
six coats, ten blankets, one kettle,
usually regarding weapons or town access. For
for protection against rival Mohawks.
twelve hatchets, twelve hoes, two dozen
many years, mock battles, with some settlers
About 1648, Mohawks hid themselves
knives, and a dozen small mirrors paid to
dressed as the Indians, tested their skills twice
in a swamp (now Jonathan Law field and
Paugussett Sachem Ansantawae (Ann-
annually, often to the great amusement of
“Mohawk Swamp”) intending to attack the
san’-tan-way), the title to the area known
onlookers.
fort at night. Settlers spied the Mohawks
then as Wepawaug passed to a party of
Although no Milford settler’s death by
and warned the Paugussets who rallied and
English settlers. Most of the Indians (also
Indian action was ever recorded, young
took several Mohawk prisoners. One captive
known as Wepawaug) moved out to the
braves would taunt the colonists from
was stripped and tied in the great meadows
northwest, but Ansantawae and his family
outside the palisades. In 1645, Indians set
for mosquitoes to torment to death. Settler
lodged at Indian Point (the Welches Point
fires from “Burnt Plains” to Fresh Meadow
Thomas Hine rescued him, fed him for
Road area) outside the transferred land.
and Dreadful Swamp, much to the town’s
two days, and then assisted in his escape.
great danger and economic loss. The export
Thereafter, both Mohawk friends and foes
and prepared for the worst. Beginning on March
of logs had to be banned for a time due to
revered Hine's family.
10, 1639 Milford men ages sixteen to sixty began
the resulting short supply. At one point
monthly training as soldiers. A twelve-foot
Ansantawae was relocated inside the
as a great danger. In the dead of one night in
palisade wall was built around the entire town.
palisades for his family’s safety.
1671, Samuel and George Clark, James Brisco,
Milford’s English settlers hoped for the best
Guards from each household were posted on a
A few years later, just north of the site
Still, the threat of Indian attack was seen
Joseph Northrop, Thomas Tibbals, John
five-day rotating basis. From November 1640
of the first Washington Bridge on the
and Jonathan Fowler, Joseph Platt, Edward
well into the eighteenth century, fines were
Housatonic River, the Paugussets built a
Camp, John Smith Jr., and Edward Wilkinson
46 Milford Living • Spring
Courtesy Daniel E. Moger Collection
Henry Sherman (to left of drum), shown here with the Milford Coronet Band, was known as Milford’s last Paugusset Indian.
slipped outside the palisade and crept along the path of today’s Bridgeport Avenue into Devon toward the Indian fort. In the minds of the young men, the Indian attacks, forest burnings, taunts, and intimidation would courtesy Golden Hill Paugusett Nation
finally be answered. No record exists as to the means used to destroy the fort, but fire was a chief means of destruction at the time, and no other method could have destroyed the fort in such a short time. By dawn the men returned to the palisades triumphant. The fort was thought to be vacant, as no injuries were reported. As one might imagine, the Indians were displeased. Upon complaint to Mr.
A re-creation of a Paugusett village reveals what life might have been like for Milford natives.
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2010 • Milford Living 47
historical perspective
Benjamin Fenn and Robert Treat, Esq.,
thirty Indians from Lake Champlain, led
carry the bass drum in the Milford Coronet
civil process was issued against the young
by an eighty-year-old chief, encamped a
Band. It is reported that his war whoops could
men. Convicted at trial before the general
fortnight at Milford Point. They said they had
chill a man's bones as he returned to his hut
court at New Haven, they were fined £10.
come for the last time to the hunting ground
north of the Kissing Bridge after a night on
The Indians were satisfied and rebuilt
of their ancestors who lived at Poconoc Point.
the town. He died circa 1900.
their fort. The victorious great raid by
Henry Sherman, the man once known as
However, Henry Sherman was not the last
Milford’s second generation was, in the
the last “practicing Milford Indian,” grew up
person of Indian descent in Milford: Johnette
end, just an embarrassment.
on a reservation in Kent. Some say he took
Leconte is of Indian descent and represented
his name in honor of General William T.
the area’s Indian community at the inaugural
original native settlers, like the Golden Hill
Sherman, but Sherman was a family name
Milford Hall of Fame celebration in 2008. A
Paugussets from Huntington, the Potatucks
among the “civilized” Paugussets, especially
search of ancient records revealed that no
from Newtown, and Schaghticoke from
in Stratford and Huntington. His Civil War
Indian after Henry Sherman received the
Litchfield County, still came to Milford to
service, which cost him his left arm, won him
“freedom of the town,” all others having
hunt, fish, and clam well into the eighteenth
the “freedom of the town of the Milford.” He
either left or been assimilated.
century. As late as the spring of 1831, about
returned to live in Milford and was proud to
Relatives and descendants of Milford’s
WHO WE ARE...
—Joseph B. Barnes, Esq.
Left: Founder Mary Ann Wasil Nilan and some of the Get In Touch Girls
Get In Touch Girls’ Program The Get In Touch Foundation® is a grassroots non-profit organization committed to breast health awareness and education. The Get In Touch Girls’ Program & Daisy Wheel® educates girls in grades 5-12 on the importance of, and how to do a breast self exam. Our global initiative will place a Daisy Wheel® in the hands of every girl in the world! So, “GIT Your Pink On!®”…and join us as we “change the world one girl at a time!” Get In Touch Founder, Mary Ann Wasil Nilan, has won The Oprah Magazine CoverGirl Giving Beautiful Back Award. Look for the story in the February 2010 issue of The Oprah Magazine.
www.GetInTouchFoundation.org/gitgirls
the get in touch foundation® P.O. Box 2144 Milford, CT 06460 203.283.5127 e-mail: info@getintouchfoundation.org
48 Milford Living • Spring
Celebrating 30 Years in Milford!
Trained Experts Specializing in American & Foreign Cars
Bumper to Bumper Service
One thing you can count on when the rest of the afternoon has let you down.
• Tune Ups • Engine Replacement • Front End Good Work at a Fair Price!
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Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00am-5:00pm
Saturday 8:00am-1:00pm
(203) 783-9505
916 Bridgeport Avenue • 203-878-5735
Tree Removal Pruning Safety Cabling Stump Grinding Backho Service Firewood
2010 • Milford Living 49
Calendar of Events 50 Milford Living • Spring
April
Meet the Author!
for the gourmet gadget you’ve been
Ongoing
Milford Public Library Children’s
looking for and stop at Lazy Lobster
Department
to try the lobster bisque. Head a few
11:00 a.m. Free. Grades PK - 2.
doors down to Collected Stories and
Milford Public Library
Carol Weis plays calliope music,
find a good book. Stop into the SoBobo
Wednesdays 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
performs a lively reading of her
Art Gallery where “Unique Meets
For ages 2 and under in the Children’s
picture book When the Cows Got
Sublime!” Finish the stroll with dessert
Department. Let’s sing, share finger-
Loose, and concludes with a rousing
at the Walnut Beach Creamery! For
plays and read stories in a relaxed and
and moo-ving singalong. For more
more information call 203-301-9935
friendly environment. Free. For more
information contact the Children's
information contact Suzanne Thomas,
Department at 203-783-3312 or visit
children's librarian at 203-783-3312.
www.foml-ct.org.
Preschool Storytime
April 13
Toddler Time
April 16
Jazz Series: Marty Isenberg Trio Center for the Arts 8:00 p.m.
Guess I’ll Go Eat Worms . . .
Tickets $15. For more information call
Monday & Tuesday at 10:00 a.m.
Learn to feed and care for the Coastal
203-878-647 or visit www.milfordarts.org.
For children ages 3 and up. Please
Center’s animals while meeting turtles,
join us for books, friends and fun!
snakes, fish, and even a bearded dragon.
Free. For more information contact
For more information call 203-878-7440
Suzanne Thomas, children's librar-
or visit www.ctaudubon.org.
Milford Public Library
ian at 203-783-3312.
April 1
April 14
April 17
Earth Day Beach Clean-up & Celebration Audubon Coastal Center 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Free. Participate in an Earth Day beach
Father Goose Tales
clean-up to aid nesting shorebirds.
Birding for Beginners
Milford Public Library
Bring work gloves and hand clippers;
Aududon Coastal Center
11:00 a.m. Free.
garden carts would also be helpful.
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Father Goose Tales with Nappy's
Stay for our Earth Day celebration.
Our introductory hands-on course
Puppets. For more information contact
Trash bags and gloves provided. For
gives students the basics for iden-
the Children's Department at 203-783-
more information call 203-878-7440 or
tifying birds. No experience nec-
3312 or visit www.foml-ct.org.
visit www.ctaudubon.org.
April 15
April 18
information call 203-878-7440 or
Firehouse Art Gallery
Milford Yacht Club
visit www.ctaudubon.org.
Opening Reception, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00
11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
p.m. Free.
$30.00 per person
The CT Coastal Center is teaming up
Presented by the Literacy Center of
Negs Guest Guitar Series: Juan Jose Saenz
with the Firehouse Gallery to show-
Milford, featuring John Elefteriades,
Milford Center for the Arts
case the wonderful bird art of area
M.D., Chief of Cardiology at Yale New
8:00 p.m.
artists. Proceeds from artwork sales
Haven Hospital, Lisa Sanders, M.D.,
Tickets $15.00. For more information call
will benefit both organizations. Exhibit
medical advisor to the TV series House,
203-878-647 or visit www.milfordarts.org
runs through May 13. Gallery hours,
and author; Lauren Willig, Yale profes-
Thursday – Sunday 12:00 p.m. -5:00
sor, and author. For information please
p.m. For more information call 203-
call Phyllis Gwatkin at 203-795-4549.
essary. Bring the “Peterson Field Guide to Eastern Birds.” Please register before March 30. For more
April 10
April 12
Improving Your Soil - Lecture and Soil Sample Drop Off Milford Library Program Room
Avian Art Show
306-0016 or visit www.milfordarts.org.
April 15
The 2nd Annual Book and Author Brunch
April 19
Creating a Garden of Color
Walnut Beach Art Stroll
Milford Library Program Room
It’s all about the soil, so what’s in yours?
Starting at the Firehouse Gallery
7:00 p.m. Free.
Bring a sample of your garden soil in
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Filanowski Farm presents “How to
a gallon baggie for drop off and the Ag
Enjoy the evening as you stroll across
Use Spring and Summer Annuals
Station will analyze it for you. For more
to Urban Antique Radio and Vintage
and Perennials to Add Pizzazz to Your
information, call 203-783-3307.
Hi-Fi where sounds of the past can be
Garden.” For more information, please
heard. Go down to visit A Fine Affair
call 203-783-3307.
7:00 p.m. Free.
April 24
April 29
May 6
May 10
Walnut Beach
Center for the Arts
Democrats Award Dinner
Golden Hill Care Center
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Free
Opening Reception, 7:00 p.m. Free.
Costa Azzurra Restaurant
7:00 p.m.
Bring your kite and a picnic lunch! The
On view through May 14
7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Kindly bring cookies or snacks to share;
ConnectiKiters will be there once again
For more information call 203-878-6647
Honorees include CT Attorney
coffee will be served. Call Wendy Safyre
with their extraordinary kites. Watch
or visit www.milfordarts.org.
General Richard Blumenthal, & local
at 203-876-7644.
Milford Living 3 Annual Kite Fly rd
these remarkable kites or fly your own! These experts are always happy
Student’s Art Show
April 30
2nd Annual Milford
residents: Bob Hardiman, Mary Ann Nilan and Justin Rosen. To purchase
Performance Coffeehouse: Parker’s Tangent
tickets please call: 203-772-1676 or
successful flight. Rain date: April 25. For
8:00 p.m.
visit: www.milforddemocrats.com.
more information call 203-283-5290.
Center for the Arts
to share their helpful hints to ensure a
April 24
Farmer's Market Agro Parking Lot, Milford Center Saturdays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Outdoor farmer’s market featuring fruits, vegetables, breads, dairy
Tickets $10.00. For more information call 203-878-6647 or visit www.milfordarts.org.
May May 1
May 8 & 9
Women Redefining Retirement Meeting
May 20
Save the Planet Exhibit And Art Stroll Firehouse Art Gallery Opening reception: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Exhibit runs through June 17.
The 48th Annual Meet the Artists and
Gallery hours: Thursday – Sunday
Artisans
12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Milford Green
For more information call 203-306-
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Free.
0016 or visit www.milfordarts.org.
Mother’s Day will be all the more special as the Green will be graced by fine
May 21
Smooth Jazz for Scholars Concert
artists. Again awarded the best 100
from Connecticut farmers.
Parson’s Complex
Fine Art Shows in the U.S.! The food
Center for the Arts
For more information visit
Tickets: $40.00
court is on the Green. For more
8:00 p.m. Tickets are $15.00. For more
www.downtownmilfordct.com.
Featuring: Jay Rowe, Mindi Abair, Ken
information contact Denise Morris
information call 203-878-6647 or visit
Navarro, Chieli Minucci, Nick Colionne
Curt 203-874-5672 or visit
www.milfordarts.org.
and Shilts. Purchase tickets by send-
www.meettheartistsandartisans.com.
products, and other fine produce
April 25
Running of the Brides
ing a check or money order payable to
Village Vogue Boutique
Smooth Jazz For Scholars, Inc. to P.O.
12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Box 3723 Milford, CT, 06460.
More than 70 brand new wedding
May 9
Jazz Series: Darren Litzie Trio
May 22
Ship Ahoy! Light Up the Harbor for Beth-
14th Annual Live Well
El Center
5K Run/Walk Mother’s Day Race
Milford Yacht Club
gowns in sizes 8-24, valued at $500
Negs Guitarist Series: Juilliard School
Milford Hospital
7:00 – 11:00 p.m.
- $1000 and up will be available to
Center for the Arts
9:00 a.m.
A second annual fundraiser to benefit
try on and purchase for unbeliev-
8:00 p.m. Tickets are $15.00. For more
This annual 5K Walk/Run will be held
the Beth-El Center. The evening will
able prices! Buy the wedding gown
information call 203-878-6647 or
rain or shine, starting and finishing
include a cocktail hour, hors d’oeuvres,
of your dreams for only $50, $75, or
www.milfordarts.org
at Milford Hospital. Proceeds are used
buffet dinner, dessert, silent and live
to fund Milford Hospital’s ongoing
auction, and great entertainment.
education/prevention programs,
For ticket availability, call Beth-El at
$100! All proceeds will go to The Get in Touch Foundation. For more infor-
May 2
Milford Harbor Duck Race
educational materials, and cancer and
876-0747 or event coordinator Joanne
www.villagevogueboutique.com or
Downtown Milford – Fowler Pavillion
prevention screenings. Pre-register
Byrne at 799-7726.
www.getintouchfoundation.com.
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
at www.hitekracing.com. For more
Food, fun, entertainment, giveaways,
information call 203-876-4004.
mation call 203.283.9400 or go to
April 28
and thousands of adorable rubber
Charles Island Exploration
ducks! Includes a Family Fun Run at
5:15-6:45 p.m.
11:00 a.m., Corporate Duck Race at
Wear comfortable pants and sneak-
May 10
May 23
The 7th Annual Bob Cooke Memorial Trek Against Skin Cancer.
Beyond Herbs: Creating an Amazing Herb
Lisman Landing Marina
noon, and signature Milford Harbor
Garden with Medicinal and Culinary Herbs
2:00 p.m. -6:00 p.m.
ers or boots that can get wet, as we
Duck Race at 1:00 p.m.. You can also
Milford Public Library Program Room
Competitive 5k run, family fun walk,
hike the three-quarter mile tombolo
adopt race ducks for your chance
7:00 p.m. Free.
10k bike ride. Raffle, silent auction,
out to the island. Water, a snack, hat,
to win one of the great prizes! Visit
Learn how to grow medicinal and
live music, face painting, gift bags,
and sunscreen are recommended.
www.milfordduckrace.com.
culinary herbs organically both
t-shirts, dinner. For more information call
Pre-registration only. We meet at the
inside and outside from Carole Miller,
203-878-8648, visit www.rncwalk.com
beach end of the board walk. For more
master gardener. For more informa-
information call 203-878-7440 or visit
tion, please call 203-783-3307.
www.ctaudubon.org.
2010 • Milford Living 51
May 29
June 4-20
Agro Parking Lot, Milford Center
Donald Margulies
Saturdays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Center for the Arts
Outdoor farmer’s market featuring
Fridays & Saturdays 8:00 p.m.; Sundays
Captain Kidd Day
Kindly bring cookies or snacks to share;
fruits, vegetables, breads, dairy prod-
2:00 p.m. Tickets $15; $12.50 seniors/stu-
Downtown
coffee will be served. Call Wendy
ucts, and other fine produce from
dents. For more information call
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Free.
Safyre at 203-876-7644.
Connecticut farmers. For more informa-
203-878-6647 or www.milforarts.org.
Shiver ye timbers it be Pirate Day in
Farmer's Market
Eastbound Theatre: Brooklyn Boy by
tion www.downtownmilfordct.com.
June June 4 & 5
June 6
June 14
then Golf. Email any questions to
Women Redefining Retirement Meeting
redcrossgolf@gmail.com.
Golden Hill Care Center
June 12
7:00 p.m.
Milford! Good old fashioned fun for the young and the young at heart. For more
June 24
American Scene Exhibit
Opening Day
information and schedule of events visit
Firehouse Art Gallery
Milford Historical Society
www.downtownmilfordct.com.
Opening reception: Thursday, June
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Free.
Fair on the Green
Tour three historic homes, the lovely
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
grounds, and shop in the General Store.
The 39th Annual Mary Taylor Church Fair on the Green will be held rain or
24, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
June 12
Exhibit runs through July 22
Connecticut Museum Open House Day
Gallery hours: Thursday – Sunday
Open weekends (excluding holidays)
Milford Historical Society
12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
through Columbus Day. For more
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Free.
For more information call 203-306-0016
shine. Over 140 fine artists and hand-
information call 203-874-2664 or visit
Come visit the Milford Historical
or visit www.milfordarts.org.
crafters displaying their work. For addi-
www.milfordhistoricalsociety.org
Society as Connecticut invites every-
tion information contact Steve French at 203-874-1982 or visit http://mtm-umc.org/fair.html.
June 7
one to spend the day at local museums. Tour three historic homes, lovely
June 24
Walnut Beach Art Stroll
14th Annual Red Cross Golf Classic at
grounds, and herb gardens. For more
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Orange Hills Country Club
information call 203-874-2664 or visit
Start at the Firehouse Gallery.
For detailed information go to
www.mifordhistoricalsociety.org
American Scene Exhibit. For more information call 203-301-9935.
www.ctredcross.org. Click on Events
Right Choice Real Estate Susan O’Shea
Full Service Agent Call Today! Cell (203) 494-5339 Office (203) 877-0618 x324 susanoshea@remax.net
Experience and Integrity
GINO CLINI (203) 795-4577
CT Contractor #578090
FRANKLIN A. DRAZEN
Commercial • Residential www.groundupfence.com
Ground Up& Fence Landscaping
Attorney at Law
LAW OFFICES OF
F RANKLIN A. D RAZEN ,
LLC
Providing Peace of Mind to Seniors and Their Families
245 CHERRY STREET MILFORD, CT 06460-3503 franklin@drazenlaw.com TEL 203-877-7511 FAX 203-878-3779
52 Milford Living • Spring
CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to the Jonathan Law High School Band on their award-winning year!
JLHS Marching Band competes in the Musical Arts Conference as a Class II band and USSBA as a Class III band.
1st place: Brien McMahon H.S. (Best Music and Color Guard) 1st place: Norwalk H.S. (Best Music, Color Guard, and General Effect) 1st place: Ramsey H.S. (Best Music, Color Guard, Percussion, and General Effect) 3rd place: Cheshire H.S. USSBA (Best Color Guard and Visual Effect) 1st place: Musical Arts Conference Championships (Best Music and General Effect) 2009 Class II Champions
Jolesch Photography
Awards for the fall season were:
2010 • Milford Living 53
expressions
The Colors of Spring
54 Milford Living • Spring
Location: My backyard garden in Milford Taken: July 2009 Photographer: Pam Landry Notes: When my husband and I first moved to
Milford, I planted four small purple coneflower plants in our backyard. Now, seven years later, the coneflowers have self-seeded and multiplied. Each spring they begin to grow and fill my flowerbed. This startlingly bright yellow Tiger Swallowtail stopped for a visit one day, clearly enjoying the coneflowers as much as I do. The combination of yellow and purple/pink is, for me, the definition of springtime.
where is it?
Answer to Last Issue’s Quiz:
The site pictured is the mailbox in front of the Milford Chamber of Commerce.
Congratulations! Winners can pick up their prize at the Milford Living office at 162 Bridgeport Avenue in Devon (look for the striped awning.) Call 203.283.5290 for office hours. Nell Moll Ray Swift III Larry Zalenski
Want your very own Milford Living bag?
Send your answer to this issue’s Where is It? (along with your name) to: info@milfordlivingmagazine.com. Five correct answers will be chosen at random.
Do you have a Where is It?
Email a high resolution digital photo (no less than three megapixels) to info@milfordlivingmagazine.com.
2010 • Milford Living 55
next issue • summer 2010
The Art of
Everything Recreation
Sand Sculpting Backyard Water Gardens
Enhancing Your Knowledge for Better Living The Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is a post-acute program for patients who suffer with chronic cardiac and lung disease. The program is designed to address the needs of this population through a variety of specialty services and programs. The goal of the Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is to help residents achieve and maintain maximum recovery potential, increase their functional status and decrease hospital admissions and/or lengths of stay.
Call 203.877.0371 today for more information.
56 Milford Living • Spring
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M i l f o r d L i v i n g
Always There. Though the winds of change have taken their toll, the horizon has begun to brighten. The Milford Bank, your community bank, was you as the seas begin to calm.
Sail on in to one of our offices, call 203.783.5700,
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help your small business grow, we can help.
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or visit us online at: milfordbank.com. The Milford Bank. Always There.
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