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TABLE OF CONTENTS Features

Departments

Sound

Harvest Photos by Mary Hegarty Neschke Text by Susan Carroll-Dwyer

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the natural treasure of oysters and clams that can be found in area

that annually ventured into the territory of the native Wepawaug

seafarers than those who came before. Indeed, modern shellfishing

ilford’s long love affair with the shellfish goes back further than local history can faithfully document.

Archeological digs have proven that the oyster fields

Many generations later, Milford fishermen are still harvesting

waters. The men and women who venture forth today may do

of Milford were a destination of distant Native American tribes

so under engine and not wind power, but they are no less hearty

to feast on the bounty of the region. By the 19th century, oystering

in Milford is a tangible connection to our past, one which the city

was one of the town’s primary industries, with sailing ships and shucking houses dotting the Milford coastline.

has paid homage to on the third Saturday in August each year since 1975. (This year’s Milford Oyster Festival takes place August 21st.)

At dawn, every morning, the boats journey to a different lot to begin the days work. Alternating the harvest of lots assures the continued growth of the shellfish beds which are seeded regularly.

20 Milford Living • Summer

20

2010 • Milford Living 21

Sound Harvest Milford fishermen are still harvesting the natural treasure of oysters and clams that can be found in area waters.

Text by Susan Carroll-Dwyer Photos by Mary Hegarty Neschke

26

A Great Place to Play The Milford Recreation Department offers something for everyone.

By Manny Strumpf

4 5 6 10 12 14 18 34 38 42 44 47 48 50 54 55 56

Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters What’s New Milford Spotlight At Home Shopping Family Time Milford Morsels Arts & Artisans Historical Perspective Money Matters Congratulations Senior Corner Calendar Expressions Where is It? Next Issue

Always There.

About the cover: For the cover of our summer issue, photographer Mary Hegarty Neschke presents us with an image of the

www.milfordbank.com

United States Naval Academy’s Squadron visiting our harbor during last year’s Fourth of July holiday. The photo is entitled “Four for Four.” 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 the Milford Fine Arts, Milford Library, Gallery on the Green, Milford Photo, and the Milford Chamber of Commerce.

2010 • Milford Living 1

01 Contents.indd 1

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sUMMER 2010 Volume 7 • Issue 2 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill-Manning Suzanne@milfordliving.com

Editorial Director Ann McGuire Ann@milfordliving.com

Art Director Ryan Swanson

Photographer

Mary Hegarty Neschke

Contributing Photographers

Lindsey Albritton, Ashley Avitabile, Bob Harrington, Kathy Nemec Lucas

Contributing Editors

Gracemary Avitabile, McKenzie Granata, Greta Stifel

Contributing Writers

Jessica Avitabile, Susan Carroll-Dwyer, Kate Harrington, Connie Jagodinski, Mark Kaminski, Timothy Lyon, Timika Mayfield, Gerry McGuire, Nick Olshansky, Manny Strumpf

Production Assistance Zinelle, Lauren Dyer

Advertising & Communications Susan Carroll-Dwyer scarrolldwyer@milfordliving.com 203-283-5290

Web Design

Greyson Schwing/Antelope Networks Zinelle/Z1 Design

Interns

Ashley Avitabile, Ariel Lyon, Andrea Mavrogianis

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

Thanks to everyone who made our “Tent Sale” such a success. It gave us room to add so many more new items for summer. Decorated flower pots, wood and wire accessories, patio decor and so many new framing samples we need another wall. Check us out on Facebook for sales and lots of pictures.

Printed in the USA. www.redmatpublishing.com

~ Celebrating over 40 years of business in Milford ~

2 Milford Living • Summer

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"Once you find us, you'll be floored floored!"

publisher’s letter

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Dear Friends & Neighbors, Welcome to summer and to another issue of

Flooring Milford for over 50 years!

Milford Living! Although summer seemed to get a real early start this year (remember spring went from 45 degree weather to 90 degrees in about a week), we don’t hear anyone complaining. One thing we all know is that Connecticut weather is unpredictable. That being said, we couldn’t have asked for a more of a picture-perfect day for the 3rd Annual Milford Living Kite Fly. What a good time we all had! Thanks to everyone who came out to enjoy the day with us, and special thanks to the ConnectiKiters for once again sharing their kite flying enthusiasm, skills, and of course, colorful kites with our community.

Here in the office we have been very busy doing some reinventing to better serve the needs of the community. And we have exciting news to share! We are in the midst of re-launching our website www.milfordliving.com, in order to provide you with more interactive Milford Living magazine online. Please check it out, share it with others, and tell us what you think!

This issue of Milford Living is all about getting you and yours

Find us on

outside to play, explore, and connect with the community. We

See the showroom or schedule an appointment at City Hall

www.ULTINT.com

Laminate • Carpet • Ceramic • Wood • Vinyl • Area Rugs Personal Service — Quality Installation Post Office

Darina Place

Bring a Wish List item &

River Street

Yankee Professional Building

SAVE $50

Tailor Package Store Barber

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Parking

on your floor purchase!

Visit our website for details.

Oyster Fest HQ

hope our stories inspire you to rediscover the people and places who make up the city we share and love.

As always, we welcome your comments, suggestions, and questions and look forward to hearing from you.

Sunrise & Blue Skies-

Railroad Tracks

878-4457 • 47 River Street (Rear Building) Downtown Milford Since 1959

Suzanne

4 Milford Living • Summer

Publishers Letter.indd 4

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readers’ letters I am 95-years-old, born in Devon, lived

Keep up the good work!! Have you done

Any thoughts of accepting and billing

most of my life here. The Laurel Beach article

any articles on the founding of Morningside?

through PayPal? It would allow you to

was great. I could have told you what came

Would love to see it!

accept credit cards without the expense of

before. People came in by train to Devon

—Lisa Riley, Milford, CT

station; it was fraught with people. My brother and neighborhood kids carried their luggage

the swiper and merchant account.

[I suggest you] run it by subscribers in

Lisa, thank you for suggesting the

summer or fall issues.

to Devon center for them to take the trolley

Morningside area as a future article for

to the beach. They charged 10 or 15 cents and

Milford Living. We have it on our list

used wheelbarrows and homemade wagons.

and will begin working on it for a future

Thanks for looking out for us, Joe. We

issue. If any readers would be interesting

are able to process payments for products,

in contributing their stories and images

subscriptions, and renewals through Paypal

toward a Morningside feature, please give

at www.milfordliving.com. Thanks for

recollection made us smile. We appreciate your

our office a call or drop us an email to

reminding our readers about this available

letter and are happy to share it with our readers.

Suzanne@milfordliving.com.

payment option.

—Ann Frisbie, New Haven, CT Thanks Ann for sharing this information. Your

—Joseph F. Honek, Milford, CT

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

Quality Pre-owned vehicles dy Shop Full Service Repairs & Bo stock Visit over 100 vehicles in

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2010 • Milford Living 5

readers letter.indd 5

6/15/10 8:06:33 PM

Ty

what’s new

Milford on Facebook

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ILFORD IS KNOWN AS THE

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“Small City with a Big

in

Heart,” but within the past year or so, Milford

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has grown into the “Small City with A Huge Facebook

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Presence.” Local Milford businesses and organizations

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have grasped the social media phenomenon, especially

lo

the ever-popular Facebook.com. Facebook currently

a

has 400 million members with 200 million visitors

im

to their website every day. Some of our community

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members are positioning themselves in the midst

a

of the action to increase their business and, in so

a

doing, are actually bringing our community closer.

In

Facebook’s popularity began with the concept of

a

staying in contact with people, businesses, celebrities, and even favored products. Always a vehicle to share pictures, life experiences, stories, and more as a way of staying in touch with extended family and friends, more recently the concept of “community” has exploded onto the Facebook scene.

Go to Facebook right now and search “Milford” and you will find

allowing our small city to make such a large splash in one of the most

thousands of profile and fan pages dedicated to local Milford, CT

visited websites in internet history. To prove that the Milford Facebook

businesses and organizations.Your favorite Milford store, restaurant,

phenomenon really is a powerful force, I created a Facebook fan page

hang out, or church probably has a Facebook page.

(supported by the Downtown Milford Business Association) for the

Having been involved in web development and social media for over

entire downtown area called “Downtown Milford Connecticut.” As of

a decade, I am proud of our community for embracing social media and

this writing, the page has over 7,100 fans, an average of 1,500 visitors

T O H E L P Y O U G E T S T A R T E D O N F A C E B O O K , here is a partial list of local pages to friend and like: Downtown Milford Connecticut Milford Living Get In Touch Foundation Milford Local Milford Historical Society Milford Preservation Trust Milford Local Proud Milford Fine Arts Council Milford Diner

Milford Marine Institute Meet the Artists and Artisans Collected Stories Ultimate Interiors Milford Bank Hebert Jewelers Stonebridge Marvin Display Tranquility Mind & Body Spa

Village Vogue BIN 100 Milford Wines & Spirits Moodswings Dulin Automotive Citrus Milford Cruise Planners Shoreline Family Chiropractic Milford PediCab

Gallery on the Green Shoreline Chef Villa Gourmet Milford Photo Fleurescent Cabo Vincent Jewelers Rick’s Chimney Service Daniel Street Rainbow Gardens

Given to Gauche Café Atlantique Mystics By the Sea Niki’s Boutique & Lingerie Bayview Balloons United Way of Milford Irish Heritage Society

6 Milford Living • Summer

What's New.indd 6

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populations, the Downtown

week, and seventy-five new fans

Milford Connecticut page has

per week.

more fans than anyone else in the state!

Updates on the fan page are written to inform

How are local businesses and

people of upcoming events

organizations using Facebook?

in the downtown area,

Rainbow Gardens kept their fans

start conversations on city

up to date with their “Rainbow to

news such as the Board

Go” construction, allowing fans

of Education, highlight

to watch the progress of their

local businesses having

general store and prepared food

an event or sale, and, most

market with pictures and status

importantly, bring people

updates. When the project was

who love Milford together

complete, most of Milford was

and give them a place to talk

aware of their new “curbside” pick

about what makes it so special.

up option before Rainbow Gardens even advertised the new dining to

In comparison to many cities

go offering.

and towns with much larger

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Spent under 3 minutes choosing the paint that will surround him for about 18 years

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DANBURY 211 White Street 203-744-4977

HAMDEN 2308 Whitney Ave. 203-288-7779

MILFORD 773 Bridgeport Ave. 203-301-0670

NEW HAVEN 390 East Street 203-562-5173

NORTH HAVEN 310 Washington Ave. 203-239-7877

WATERBURY 1225 Thomaston Ave. 203-753-1131

2010 • Milford Living 7

What's New.indd 7

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what’s new The fan pages for Milford Local and Milford Local Proud are always posting Milford trivia questions, as well as recognizing great people

On a more personal note, when a local family needed help finding a bone marrow donor for their child, Facebook was used to spread the

within the community. The goal is to shine

word throughout the Milford community. The

some light on people who are doing good for

response was so overwhelming it became the

our city, and educate people on programs to

highest attended bone marrow drive in the

promote locally owned businesses in Milford.

history of the national organization that ran

Hebert Jewelers is always posting about what

the event, and led to thousands of dollars being

new jewelry has come into the store. Louise Hebert

donated to the Milford family in need!

says, “Facebook keeps us in the forefront of our

So if you haven’t already done so, get on your

customers’ minds. It helps to build and maintain

computer and go to www.facebook.com. Create

our relationships with our customers and form

an account and start making new friends by

new ones. We actually sold a diamond engagement

searching for people, places, and things that

ring to one of our Air Force soldiers in Iraq because

excite you. If you are a business owner, start by

of Facebook! That was the best sale I’ve ever made!”

creating a fan page and making a presence for

Even the City of Milford’s Recreation Department is sharing in the Facebook love; every day they post sport scores from the city’s leagues and, in addition to posting schedules, they post delays, and weather cancellations.

yourself.

Join the Facebook party. I am waiting to be added as your next new friend!

—Mark Kaminski

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What's New.indd 8

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What's New.indd 9

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milford spotlight

Howes Celebrates 100!

T

HE ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHER

Heraclitus

once famously stated that, “The only

constant is change.” British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli believed, “The secret of success is constancy of purpose.” For 100 years, despite the monumental changes that both America and Milford have witnessed, Howes Drug Store has remained and prospered because of how well it has adhered to its purpose of serving the people of Milford.

Inside Howes, the soda fountain where children and teenagers once sat eagerly anticipating frothy ice cream sodas is long gone. The shelves behind the counter no longer hold small, glass bottles filled with medicines and powders, and a computer has replaced the card MARY HEGARTY NESCHKE

catalogue that once held each customer’s prescription information.

When Howes first opened its doors in 1910, William Howard Taft was President, boxer Jack Johnson was the Heavyweight Champion, and the Chicago Cubs were only two years

Ernie Judson (center) began work at Howes in

removed from having won the World

1949 and eventually became the owner before

Series. A lot has changed since then, but

passing the reigns to current owners Frank

through it all, Howes has remained an

Cocchiaro and Andrew Allegretti.

integral part of the Milford community.

Although there have been different

required the work and dedication of some

locations and different owners, the store

special people. In the modern world, where

has kept the name Howes since its incep-

career change is the norm and job security is

tion. The earliest record of a Howes Drug Store

(who purchased the pharmacy from John T.

hard to find, a feat even more impressive than

is a bill dated 1910 for the sale of soda fountain

Howe in 1939), bought the parcel of land at 78

Howes’ staying power is the fact that for over

equipment from the Barnes Drug Store on River

Broad where St. Mary’s rectory once stood and

sixty years, one man, Ernie Judson, has called

Street to a Mr. John T. Howe. The first Howes was

built the Howes that stands today. The store still

the Milford drug store his place of work.

located on Broad Street near Harrison’s Hard-

looks like it did in the 1950s.

ware (which opened in 1908), and later moved

In 1949, when he was just 16-years-old, Ernie

Howes’ survival amidst an ever-changing

began working at Howes as a soda jerk, and

to 58 Broad Street on the corner of Armory Lane.

world and the growing competition of chain

what started as an after school job became a

In 1955, the second owner of Howes, Yale Lietes

stores and mail-order pharmaceuticals has

career. Ernie graduated from the University of

10 Milford Living • Summer

Spotlight.indd 10

6/15/10 8:15:51 PM

Connecticut in 1955 and returned to Howes as

and Frank Cocchiaro, but stayed on part time,

or seven grocery stores downtown where now

a pharmacist. In 1988, after working for Yale

which gives him the time to travel the country

there are banks and restaurants. People can

Lietes for almost forty years, he bought the

with his wife of fifty-three years.

now get their prescriptions through the mail

business and became the third owner of Howes Drug Store.

Ernie notes the changes that have taken

where they used to come to us.” Ernie believes

place over the years to both downtown Milford

the main reason Howes has been able to last,

and Howes business. The soda fountain and

regardless of the changes, is the service that

over the years, Judson quickly replies, “Just

barstools were removed in the early 1960s, he

they offer. “It’s personal service; we know our

the customers—getting to meet so many nice

says, after a group of rowdy teenagers who

customers and help them as best as possible.”

people.” He has watched three generations of

hung out on the green and were called “The

Heraclitus was right of course; change is

Milford pass through his store. Even though he

Greenies” took to loitering by the soda fountain,

constant. But for one hundred years, Howes

only works twenty hours a week now, he still

causing trouble and intimidating some of the

Drug Store has been a steadfast pillar of the

knows many customers by name. In 1997, Ernie

older customers. The soda fountain became

Milford community. Times may have changed,

decided to sell the business while he was still

more trouble than it was worth, so away it

but by remaining a reliable and helpful part

young enough to enjoy his retirement. He had

went for good.

of so many people’s lives generation after

When asked what he has enjoyed the most

offers from the big chain stores, but decided

“Downtown Milford used to be busier,” he adds. “Malls and strip malls have taken

business. He sold Howes to Andrew Allegretti

people away from downtown. There were six

timeless fixture of downtown Milford.

—Gerry McGuire

MARY HEGARTY NESCHKE

to keep it a privately owned, independent

generation, Howes Drug Store has become a

2010 • Milford Living 11

Spotlight.indd 11

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T

at home

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st

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h

Graceful Water Gardens W

w

th

g

h as a

Milford resident Kathy Kobishyn is a

to fence in the pond.” Kobishyn glances

G

master gardener with a degree from the

proudly at the waterfalls that cascade into

th

dating back to before 3,000 B.C. describe

University of Connecticut. She and her

the main pool where Koi and tadpoles lazily

places of refreshment and renewal with pools

husband Ted created a large backyard

patrol the cattails, iridescent irises, and water

surrounded by fruit trees and decorative

water garden after their daughter took a job

lilies. “It attracts wildlife, especially at night,

plants and grasses. Remnants of an ancient

overseas. “Initially we were going to make a

and the sound is so soothing that people

water pond have recently been unearthed

small pond ourselves,” she says. “We started

actually complain when it’s turned off.”

beneath King Solomon’s palace in Jerusalem,

digging, but the soil was so compacted, we

where he might very well have lingered

ended up hiring a professional. The deepest

and one of the happiest days of her life was

with the Queen of Sheba. Ancient Egyptian,

parts are only two feet deep to avoid having

fifteen years ago when Peg Larssen moved

E THINK OF WATER GARDENS

relatively recent fad, yet records

Ellen Richetelli is a devoted gardener,

Persian, Moorish, Roman, Japanese, and Chinese cultures all valued water gardens as places of calm and beauty in which to socialize and relieve stress. Originally, only kings and the elite could enjoy such luxury. Today, anyone can create a private water garden paradise in which to relax and unwind.

Water gardens can be created for any size, shape, and budget. In fact, a yard is not even necessary; an apartment balcony can become a lush getaway with ANN DOOLITTLE (2)

a “disappearing” fountain in a pretty pot, surrounded by containers of decorative flowers and plants. Those fortunate enough to own a yard have numerous options, depending on sunlight, trees, power lines,

(Top) Kathy Kobishyn’s water garden in glorious bloom. (Above) A close-up of the water lilies that

local regulations, and seasonal maintenance.

call Kobishyn’s garden home.

12 Milford Living • Summer

At Home.indd 12

6/15/10 8:16:47 PM

in next door. She realized she had much

water garden with gorgeous irises that

more to learn as Peg transformed her own

attract her beloved dragonflies, wildlife, stray

backyard into a meandering, year-long

cats, and even a little red fox.

water garden, complete with paved paths,

“It’s for the creatures,” Poole says of her

statuary, and lush flowerbeds. Inspired,

garden. “Water sound brings a sense of calm.

Ellen installed a small, free-form pool in her

Mind you, I never get to enjoy it. I’m always

own backyard and worked with Peg to blend

weeding and moving plants. I also provide

their landscapes into acreage both can enjoy,

high tea in the garden as an auction item for

along with their families. “It just transpired,”

Sharon Poole’s beautiful water garden (in

Ellen says, smiling fondly at the vista from

bloom the first year) regularly attracts varied

Each water garden is as different as

her deck. “My pond is small, so my goldfish

wildlife ranging from neighborhood cats and

its maker. Each was imagined and then

winter in Peg’s water garden. Apparently

dragonflies to a little red fox.

created with thought, care, and hard work,

they mated, so in addition to my original goldfish, I also have Koi fish.”

organizations I’m active in.”

transforming an expanse of yard into a children who loved to try and catch frogs.

sanctuary of beauty and delight. Anyone

When she moved to Milford almost a

would enjoy lingering beside them for a

had gorgeous flower and herb gardens in her

decade ago, she wanted another pond. She

while…especially if Sharon Poole is serving

Greenwich home, along with a natural pond

transformed her entire backyard into a

one of her famous high teas.

that attracted wildlife and neighborhood

garden. Its crowning jewel is a medium-sized

Sharon Poole, a Wildemere Beach resident,

r

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2010 • Milford Living 13

At Home.indd 13

6/15/10 8:17:00 PM

shopping

Toy Story

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th

p

I

S THERE ANYTHING MORE THRILLING THAN getting to be a kid

fo

again, even if it’s just for a few moments? Is there

o

anything more exciting to a child than visiting a store

a

where their interests and desires are being catered to?

Luckily, Milford’s youngest residents have a number of

T

stores that specialize in fulfilling their needs.

2

Whether you’re a kid, or you just want to feel like one,

W

this summer is the perfect time to visit one of Milford’s

2

local toy stores. Inside you’ll discover treasures of the past mixed with new and updated finds. What

k

better way to spend time with your kids than

m

organizing a family game night with a new

S

board game, or shutting off the television

d

and playing with a deck of cards? Toys

g

just seem to have a way of putting a smile on everyone’s face, from the very youngest to the oldest, and

Yellow Moon Toy Company owner Ken Salem, draws

everyone in between.

on the expertise of his daughter Casey (pictured with him at left) and two sons to know what kids want.

YELLOW MOON TOY COMPANY MILFORD MARKETPLACE 1670 BOSTON POST ROAD, MILFORD WWW.YELLOWMOONTOYCOMPANY.COM 203. 874.1601 At the Yellow Moon Toy Company, owners Ken and Tracey Salem have done everything possible to create a toy store that is fun, clean, and inviting—all in the spirit of capturing the spark of childhood, whether you’re still a kid or just one at heart.

With her artistic flare, the décor that Tracey designed will

location was in Fairfield, but we always wanted to open a second shop in Milford because it’s the perfect location,” says Ken. “We enjoy being part of this community and making an effort to be neighborly. We love the quaint feel of the town and particularly, this shopping plaza [Milford Marketplace]; it’s so nice that people can just go for a stroll and stop in on their way by.”

Adding to the allure of this toy store is the fact that Ken and Tracey will happily do their very best to satisfy

make you feel like you’ve just stepped into Santa’s workshop. From the

every customer’s need. Have a request for a particular board game

bubble gum pink walls, to the stars and moon centered in the ceiling,

for which you’ve been searching? Would you like it gift wrapped?

the whole place has a magical atmosphere. And the best part of all? The

Do you need someone to slip a Groovy Girl doll in the back of your

toys, of course! Ken says that his three children, Casey, Matthew, and

car without your daughters being the wiser? Or maybe, now that

Thomas all play a crucial role in deciding which games and toys wind

summer is here, you’re hoping for a free magic show or birthday

up on his shelves. “We test out games and puzzles on our kids, since

party venue for the kids. Whatever it is you’re looking for, you’re

that’s the best way of knowing what will work for other children,” he

bound to find it at the Yellow Moon Toy Company. Teachers can

says. “After all, our success only grows if we know our customers.”

find erasers in all sorts of fun shapes (like carrots, birthday cakes,

Ken and Tracey clearly know what they are doing. “Our first

and top hats) for their hard-working students, parents will come

14 Milford Living • Summer

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across the perfect puzzles and science crafts for all those summertime birthday parties, and doctors can pick up a few wooden stacking blocks and baby toys for their offices. But whether purchasing a new toy or not, you’ll walk out with a smile on your face and a spring in your step.

THE ORIGINAL TOY COMPANY 230 WOODMONT ROAD, MILFORD 203.876.7289 Although the Original Toy Company (previously known as Galt America), is more of a wholesale marketplace than retail outlet, owners Kevin and Susan McGrath maintain some discounted or

LINDSEY ALBRITTON(4)

WWW.THEORIGINALTOYCOMPANY.COM

discontinued pieces on hand for purchase by the

Owner Kevin McGrath proudly claims that unique designs and superior craftsmanship

general public.

make the Original Toy Company “like the Mercedes-Benz of the toy world.”

ws

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2010 • Milford Living 15

Shopping.indd 15

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shopping

Kevin is a bit like Santa himself—having

specialty toy business, and you won’t find such creativity in any department store.”

designed nearly all of the company’s branded products with his wife and a

With such huge efforts being made in

small design team. Their impressive

recent years to focus our nation’s youth

collection of toys and games are noted

away from the television and video

for their craftsmanship, and range

games, the Original Toy Company

from old fashioned marionette dolls

provides a great excuse for kids to

to indoor/outdoor trampolines. They

put down the remote control and

boast wooden musical instruments,

enjoy some old-fashioned, hands-on

retro dolls, and “impulse items” such as

interaction. Kevin is proud to say, “We are like the Mercedes-Benz of the toy

multi-colored wooden spinning tops and

world, and we are one of Milford’s best kept

fun, bendable wooden puppets.

“We’re all kids at heart,” Kevin says. “I find that traveling and just talking to people gives me

SE LIND

a great sense of what appeals to kids;

T RIT LB YA

ON

secrets. Our customers get great value for the pieces they are buying; toys and games that will last for a long time and provide endless

therefore, all of our toys are hands-on

Whether it’s for a boy or a girl, Milford’s local toy shops

and highly educational. We are a

offer unusual finds for kids of all ages.

amounts of fun.”

—Timika Mayfield

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 16 Milford Living • Summer

Shopping.indd 16

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family time

High-tech Treasure Hunt

M

si

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treasure hunting thanks in part

lo

INSET PHOTO MARY ANN WASIL NILAN

ILFORD HAS ALWAYS BEEN A HOTBED for

to Captain Kidd and the legendary booty he allegedly left on Charles Island. Today, a fun, high-tech treasure hunting trend that has been sweeping the nation has come to Milford. For modern treasure seekers it’s all about the cache…geocache that is. In geocaching, a game played around the world, the prefix “geo” stands for Earth and the term

N41° 11.732' W73° 04.644' A view of the island is off to your left.

Watch your head, you may have to duck.

geography, and “cache” is defined as a hiding place someone would use to temporarily store items.

In geocaching, treasure hunters equipped with GPS devices travel through different communities in the hopes of locating hidden containers (caches) in outdoor areas and then share their experiences online with others. A

over one million active geocaches around the world, and over 1,500

geocacher can place a geocache anywhere in the world and spot its

geocache’s in Connecticut.

location using a GPS system. Geocacher’s then share the geocache’s

What kind of “treasure” will you find at a cache? The size of each

location online through geocaching websites, the most popular of

cache varies, from a nano, which is very small and usually just

which is www.geocaching.com.

contains a logbook (each cache has a log for you to sign and let others

Geocaching is not only fun for the whole family, but also helps people reconnect with the natural world. Currently there are well

know the date you found it), to caches that are very big and hold lots of fun treasure. The rule is that if you take something (a pin, a toy, etc.) from the cache, you must leave

START SEARCHING TODAY!

T

o help you get started, here are some local geocaches we have placed and corresponding coordinates. Just plug in your GPS and get going: N41° 12.1108', W073° 6.2077' Milford’s beauty graces its pages.

For seven years now…it is fit for all ages.

Look for an awning that’s all the rage.

The cache is there somewhere but hard to gauge.

something in return for those who follow.

Travel bugs and geocoins are also left in caches. These are trackable items that are logged onto the website and can be followed around the world. On a trip to Hawaii, I found a geocoin that started in Japan and

18 Milford Living • Summer

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had moved to Hawaii; I placed it in Utah. Many school classes will place a geocoin or a travel bug and follow it as it travels the world; it’s a great class project.

In Milford and around the world, caches can be found everywhere. Many caches are hidden in plain sight. You may even have stood next to, or looked INSET PHOTO MARY ANN WASIL NILAN

right at, a geocache and not even known it. They can be located and hidden anywhere. In Milford, they are hidden on and in bridges, submarines, cemeteries, schools, parks, ponds, and many other locations.

In future issues of Milford Living we’ll tell you about the caches we’ll be placing around Milford that will include some Milford-themed treasure for you to find.

—Tim Lyon

N41° 13.601' W73° 3.672' A brave Milford citizen lived in this dwelling.

On a cold winters night, The townspeople came yelling.

He was truly a hero in our Revolutionary fight.

Additional information on geocaching can be found online at the following websites: www.geocaching.com www.groundspeak.com www.waymarking.com www.whereigo.com

SAIL INCREDIBLE

s

s

Take my expert advice and sail the Oasis of the SeasSM.

Plan your cruise vacation today and sail almost anywhere.

Caribbean • Europe • Mexican Riviera • Alaska • Transatlantic Leslie Marsh, ECC and Expert Plus

203.799.2367

www.ctcruiseplanners.com 2010 • Milford Living 19

Family Time.indd 19

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Sound

Harvest Photos by Mary Hegarty Neschke Text by Susan Carroll-Dwyer

M

the natural treasure of oysters and clams that can be found in area

that annually ventured into the territory of the native Wepawaug

seafarers than those who came before. Indeed, modern shellfishing

ilford’s long love affair with the shellfish goes back further than local history can faithfully document.

Archeological digs have proven that the oyster fields

of Milford were a destination of distant Native American tribes

to feast on the bounty of the region. By the 19th century, oystering was one of the town’s primary industries, with sailing ships and shucking houses dotting the Milford coastline.

Many generations later, Milford fishermen are still harvesting

waters. The men and women who venture forth today may do

so under engine and not wind power, but they are no less hearty

in Milford is a tangible connection to our past, one which the city

has paid homage to on the third Saturday in August each year since 1975. (This year’s Milford Oyster Festival takes place August 21st.)

20 Milford Living • Summer

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At dawn, every morning, the boats journey to a different lot to begin the days work. Alternating the harvest of lots assures the continued growth of the shellfish beds which are seeded regularly.

2010 • Milford Living 21

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Though it is a tough job, working in winter, in the pouring rain and under the blazing summer sun, these men are happy in their work and of good humor. This gentleman puts on his Sunday best for our camera.

O sm se n o

Though it’s a tough job, working in winter, in the pouring rain, and under the blazing summer sun, these men are happy in their work and are of good humor. This gentleman puts on his Sunday best for our camera.

22 Milford Living • Summer

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Oysters are dredged, hoisted to the surface with a small crane, and dumped onto a table. Oysters are separated from rocks and other debris. The oyster’s nemesis, limpets, are removed from the shells. The oysters are kept in bushels, destined for shore.

2010 • Milford Living 23

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Clams are located in separate plots. Clamming requires a different approach since clams dwell in a sandy bottom. This dredge jets sea water into the sand, loosening the clams, and enabling their safe extraction from the sand and into the collection cage. Fishermen rinse the clams of any remaining sand and crate them for their ride to shore.

24 Milford Living • Summer

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The boats average around 50 bushels per day. Shellfish are bagged and removed from the boats, trucked to the shop and graded.

This interesting contraption sizes and sorts the harvest.

The clams and oysters are shipped to the Fulton Fish Market, wholesalers, and local restaurants.

a

Milford Living would like to thank Nancy Follini and Joseph Gilbert, owners of Briarpatch Enterprises, for helping bring this up-close pictorial to our readers.

2010 • Milford Living 25

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A Great Place t

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26 Milford Living • Summer

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e to Play M

N ilford might be known as the small city with a big heart, but Milford’s recreation director, Bill McCarthy, claims that it’s also the city with the big and inclusive recreation program.

“We’ve come a long way since the late 1940s when the then

The Milford Recreation Department offers something for everyone

By Manny Strumpf

Photos by Mary Hegarty Neschke

fledgling Milford Recreation Department was housed in the City Hall basement,” McCarthy says. What started many years ago with a few athletic programs has evolved into more than 120 activities.

The primary focus of the Milford Recreation Department (Milford Rec.) remains sports, but it is continually shifting in order to meet the changing needs of society in general and residents in particular. For instance, Milford Rec. provides afterschool activities for children with working parents, and it has developed additional programs for children with varying degrees of special needs. With a mission to build a community through people, parks, and programs, Milford Rec. provides an eclectic menu of ways to service just about every resident.

Daniel Worroll Jr. has chaired the Milford Commission for Parks, Beaches and Recreation for eleven years. Recreation leaders from throughout the state constantly tell him that Milford has one of the finest programs in Connecticut.

“We excel in general programming

From golf to martial arts training, the Milford Recreation Department offers a wide array of programs tailored to meet the needs of Milford citizens of all ages.

and we are considered to be ahead of the pack in adaptive programming as well,” Worroll says. Responsible for 250 parks, open spaces, ball fields, and beaches, the Recreation commission and its department are kept busy twelve months of the year. “We are determined to keep up with the growing and the aging populations,” Worroll

2010 • Milford Living 27

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A good number of Milford Rec. classes cater

continues, “but it’s a challenge.” Wor-

Serving a Sports-Minded Community

to children, from afterschool and summer

roll gives credit where it is due, citing

Milford loves its sports, and the recreation

activities to year-long music lessons.

excellent relationships with the other

department certainly does its best to

city agencies and departments that help

accommodate a wide range of interests.

make the programs successful including

Milford’s softball programs are well known

police, fire, public works, education, and

in Connecticut and the region. In fact, former

the Mayor’s office.

recreation director Ed Austin now serves as

The Milford Board of Education distrib-

Association, a national organization. More

child promoting programs and classes.

than one hundred teams participate in

Some of the non-traditional programs

several of Milford’s leagues, which include

offered include ceramics for children, a

an industrial league for company teams, a

camera club for adults, ESL (English as

wooden bat league (instead of standard metal

a Second Language) courses, piano and

bats), co-ed and women’s leagues, and tour-

violin lessons, pottery, model airplanes,

nament leagues for advanced players who vie

painting, radio-controlled airplaning,

in regional and national tournaments.

rug hooking, health and fitness, walking groups, and yoga, among others.

Recreation.indd 28

a commissioner for the American Softball

utes quarterly guides to every school

Tennis is provided in cooperation with the Milford Tennis Association, which assigns

6/15/10 8:26:44 PM

courts for league play and lessons. This does

“We try to accommodate all programming

Academy property off Gulf Street at no cost

not preclude the occasional tennis player

requests. If we don’t provide it we will try to

to the city. The Gaelic Football League in New

who may wish to take to the courts on a

find a site nearby that does,” says recreation

Haven will play games in Milford, and more

Sunday morning or a weekday evening.

supervisor Bill Garfield. “Among the

than fifteen Milford youngsters have signed

Permits are available at the Recreation office

programs we do have is a skateboard park at

on to play. “We hope this will catch on, just as

in the Parsons Complex. The city hires tennis

Washington Field. It gets pretty good use now

lacrosse has, which is gaining in popularity,”

pros and also provides lessons.

but the city will promote it more heavily.”

McCarthy said.

A similar arrangement is maintained

Who would imagine that one of the longest

Milford Recreation hires and supervises

with the United Soccer Club which schedules

running programs is badminton? It has been

more than forty lifeguards for its beaches and

league play and lessons. More than 2,500

going strong for at least a quarter century.

the indoor pools at Foran High School and the

residents play soccer at one of the several

Players provide their own rackets and birdies;

former Milford Academy. The Orchards golf

locations in town. The Rec. even runs its own

the city provides the courts. Volleyball has

course, which is very successful, is managed

pre-school soccer classes for children aged

drawn a good turnout for league play at

and maintained by an outside company from

two to five.

indoor and outdoor facilities, and at Hawley

which the city receives revenue.

Continuingly popular are basketball

Avenue and Gulf beaches. Nets are avail-

The Rec. also offers several yoga and health

programs, and there are leagues and sites

able from the lifeguard stations for anyone

and fitness programs, including popular

available for pick-up games. Program director

wanting to play a beach pickup game. No

classes in Zumba, karate for adults and

Paul Piscitelli, a certified EMT, was on-hand

pre-registration is required.

children, cardio kickboxing and even hula

one evening at West Shore Recreation Center

For international flavor, there are bocce

hoop fitness.

to administer CPR to a basketball player

and Gaelic football leagues. To meet the

who collapsed while on the court, saving the

growing demand, the Milford Italian Men’s

Day Camp

man’s life. Fortunately, says McCarthy, such

Club received permission to construct three

Another long-running program available in

occurrences are extremely rare.

additional bocce courts at the former Milford

Milford has been the summer day camp. First

n

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al

e Milford is a sports-minded community and Milford Recreation provides ample opportunities for city residents to play along. Basketball, football, softball, tennis, soccer, volleyball, bocce, Gaelic football, and badminton are a few of the organized sports available.

2010 • Milford Living 29

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ce

these ladies’ synchronized

th

smiles.

ci

m conceived in the 1960s by former recreation

program for boys. “The football program not

nature classes, Marchese enlists parents,

director Herbert S. Cables Jr. as an extension

only brought us national attention when we

siblings, and teenagers from the middle

of the neighborhood playground activities,

were invited to play in tournaments outside

and high schools to provide one-on-one

the day camp was held at Jonathan Law High

of Connecticut, but also enabled local boys

relationships with the youngsters.

School and included a full range of activities

to hone their skills,” he said. “Some of them

like archery, arts and crafts, and sports. The

went on to play varsity football at Ohio State,

that approximately 1,200 children in the

cost to parents was nominal in order to

Yale, and Temple, as well as other prestigious

Milford school system qualify as special

attract as many youngsters as possible, and

colleges and universities. This is a gauge of

needs students. The Rec. works with outside

staff included teachers, college students,

the success of the program,” Cables says.

agencies such as Bridges to help build

and other professionals with varied skills.

By the 1980s, the camp had moved to Eisenhower Park and children were bused to

“And let’s not forget the lights at Washing-

Recreation director McCarthy estimates

programs that will be successful. In one

ton Field that opened new opportunities to

particular case, a young girl who did not

expand our softball program,” he adds.

speak was introduced to music through the

the program. But budgetary factors eventu-

Rec. program. She performed in a concert

ally led to changes, and activities returned to

“We Learn from Each Other”

and, according to one parent, “sang as if she

neighborhood schoolyards. Camp Happiness,

Debra Marchese is a local resident who

was an angel.” In addition, a troupe from the

which started some thirty years ago, serves

worked with autistic children in Greenwich,

program has danced with the New England

youngsters with emotional and learning

and now works with special needs children

Ballet Company.

difficulties who might regress without some

at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Bridgeport.

form of supervised activities when school is

A former professional dancer and dance

the challenges of building and maintaining

out for the summer.

instructor, Marchese coordinates activities

such a program. “But,” she adds, “we learn from

for special needs children for the Rec. through

the kids as much as they learn from us. To see

ment home in Atlanta, said that he considers

the department’s growing list of “adaptive

the love is something that money cannot buy.”

the day camp to be one of the finest programs

programs” geared toward physically or

McCarthy agrees, “To see a kid in a wheelchair

initiated during his tenure in Milford. He also

learning-impaired children. Offering sports,

bouncing a basketball alongside kids with

ranks high the national Pop Warner football

dance, drama, art, music, swimming, and

normal walking skills is heartwarming.”

Herbert Cables, speaking from his retire-

“It’s a give and take,” says Marchese about

30 Milford Living • Summer

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A Great Place to Play “Milford is a great place in which to live and work,” says McCarthy, a lifelong Milford resident who is proud of the work that he and his full-time staff of five, and the seasonal and temporary employees who number close to 200 perform each year. While it’s difficult to measure the actual number of individuals who use the public facilities and participate in programs because the same people may enjoy more than one program, in a city with more than 50,000 residents, the numbers are significant. “Similarly, we cannot count the number of users of our parks, beaches, and neighborhood playgrounds and our tennis courts or picnic areas,” he says.

Regardless of actual numbers, McCarthy is

Ready for a game? Look

certain of one thing: the people who make up

to Milford Recreation

the Milford Recreation Department “provide this

for your choice of

city with the best programs and facilities for the

classes.

most people at the least possible cost.”

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2010 • Milford Living 31

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32 Milford Living • Summer

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2010 • Milford Living 33

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milford morsels

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BOB HARRINGTON

Rockin’ the Bridge

C

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a

is then Stonebridge Restaurant is the

Island inn, a great setting to enjoy wonderful summer weather

b

while overlooking the Founder’s Bridge. Perfectly perched over the

w

summer at this hot spot with seasonal food and drink under warm,

Wepawaug River with a wraparound deck reaching toward the

h

starry nights. Passersby might mistake it for a well-attended block

roaring waterfall, Stonebridge offers fabulous al fresco dining. The

party when, in reality, Stonebridge is rapidly becoming a Milford

interior décor is equally impressive with its crown molding, marble

landmark as famous as its historical namesake.

accented fireplace, and dark mahogany appointments. The expansive

F THE GREEN IS THE TOWN CENTER,

epicenter of Milford. People come from near and far to celebrate

The success of Stonebridge has been carefully cultivated by its

lower patio in the foreground creates an outdoor club atmosphere,

proprietor, Rich Conine. It all started with his father’s business,

emanating an energy that is contagious. Rich describes the raising

Milford Seafood, which stood at the same location since 1947. Year

of the patio tent as a sure sign of spring. “It wakes up downtown

after year, the centrally located fishmonger became a popular

Milford,” he proclaims.

hangout during the annual Milford Oyster Festivals. This inspired Rich to tap into the ethos of his seaside town. “People love being outdoors,” he explains. In 1989, he purchased the business from his father and proceeded to transform it into the superstructure that it is today.

The grand white building is reminiscent

fine-dining experience. The Contemporary American menu is well varied with seafood, steak, and pasta dishes. Executive Chef, Brett Keating, a Certified Executive Chef with the American Culinary Federation, has many beautiful dishes in his repertoire such as a bountiful Seafood Paella ($24.00) and

JOSEPH LAMBERT

of an old Block

With its partying appeal, it’s easy to forget that Stonebridge touts a

34 Milford Living • Summer

Milford Morsels.indd 34

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BOB HARRINGTON

a tangy Asian Crusted Ahi Tuna ($23.00.) The fresh catch of the day is most popular, allowing diners to choose the way their fish is cooked (blackened, grilled, broiled, or roasted). Imagine a line-caught swordfish pan-blackened with wild mushrooms, roasted peppers and spinach, finished with a gorgonzola cream sauce; seafood serendipity. Favorites

Stonebridge has an interesting mix of casual and elegant, welcoming

such as the Lobster Roll ($19.00) and Steamed Maine Lobster (M/P) are

daytrippers, visiting boaters, business people, and party-goers alike.

also offered, as are fried goodies such as crispy calamari, fish and chips, clam strips, and the like.

BOB HARRINGTON

Sizeable signature salads such as The Downtown Salad with Grilled Chicken ($15.00) features tender, young chicken marinated and grilled,

chef Matt Weichner. One creative surf and turf option is the 14 oz.

Ribeye with Sugar Cane-Skewered Shrimp and Scallops ($33.00.)

Value is also on the menu with an early bird special daily from

served on a bed of mixed greens with apples slices, candied pecans

3:00-6:00 p.m. with two dinners for just $25.00 from a select

and goat cheese, finished with a white balsamic dressing.

menu. A complete raw bar rounds off the oceanic offerings,

The daily specials allow Chef Keating to shine. One seafaring special is the Asian Crusted Sea Bass ($25.00), served over a bed of soy-glazed bok choy. The 12 oz. NY Strip Steak ($28.00) is equally enticing, rubbed

and interesting noshes include a playful Lobster Grilled Cheese Sandwich ($17.00).

Lighter fare and live entertainment are served at Daniel Street,

with peppercorns, topped with a dijon brandy cream sauce, and piled

the nightclub across the street run by Rich’s son Philip. Local

high with onion rings. “We use only center cut meats,” explains sous

bands looking to make it big are frequent headliners at Daniel

e

JOSEPH LAMBERT

l

2010 • Milford Living 35

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milford morsels

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Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence –Family Owned since 1985–

Dine Al Fresco!

Come visit our outdoor patio!

• Nightly entertainment in our piano bar & lounge

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at a glance

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STONEBRIDGE RESTAURANT ADDRESS: 50 Daniel Street, Milford PHONE: 203.874.7947

WEBSITE: www.stonebridgerestaurant.com LUNCH

Mon.-Sat.: 11:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Sunday: 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

• Tuesday wine night–1/2 priced bottles!

• Happy hour Monday-Friday

• Full menu available for takeout www.Armellinos.com

• On & off premise catering services

DINNER Mon.-Thurs.: 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Fri.-Sat.: 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

JOSEPH LAMBERT (2)

Sunday: 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

LATE MENU Mon.-Wed. until 10:00 p.m.

Thurs.-Sat. until 12:00 a.m.

SPECIALS Every day: 2 for $25.00 dinner specials - 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Every day: Prix fixe menu; $16.00 per person - 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Complimentary Happy Hour buffet every Friday night

667 Bridgeport Ave (Rt.1) •Milford, CT 06460 (203) 874-6509 • www.armellinos.com

Catering services also available. Private parties; large capacity.

36 Milford Living • Summer

Milford Morsels.indd 36

6/15/10 8:31:04 PM

Catering to banquets and social functions Accommodations for over 250 people Come Visit Our New Bar! Street—much to the delight of loyal fans. Together, Stonebridge and Daniel Street are the nexus of local nightlife.

Having captured the essence of all things beachy, visiting boaters, seasonal renters, and day-trippers all flock to Stonebridge in droves. “Milford has become a summer destination,” Rich explains. He is very pleased with this, and with the success of neighboring businesses and restaurants. “We feed off each other,” says Rich, no pun intended.

Stonebridge has an interesting duplicity of casual and elegant, reminiscent of a Caribbean island, where fine dining and sand

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2010 • Milford Living 37

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arts + artisans

The Hometown Harpist J

AN BALDWIN IS KNOWN TO MANY

as the “hometown harpist,”

gracing the community with her magnificent music. As the

prior organist and choir director at several area churches, as well as the founder and director of several community music programs, it may come as a surprise to know that music is only one facet of Baldwin’s artistic career.

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to allow children to choose their own instruments in order to cultivate a

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true love and passion for music.

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The harp also serves as an additional means for Baldwin’s

co

musical outreach. While she says that usually her favorite genre is “semi-classical music or spiritually tied music,” she admits

it

that she adjusts to slow music without strong melodies to

is

Baldwin describes her life as an artist in several

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stages: “Personal artist, educator, enabler.” The

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Massachusetts native spent her youth focusing on the

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visual arts, in which she majored in college. Although

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she did begin playing piano at the age of seven, she

M

mostly focused on painting and other visual art forms until her early twenties.

Soon afterward, Baldwin discovered her passion for music and the ways in which it enabled her to give back to her community.

After moving to Milford and marrying, she quickly immersed herself in regional activities.

She began teaching art, music, and drama in private schools; founded and directed both the Milford Senior Gospel Choir and the Voices of Praise Special Projects Choir; and served as director, founder, and performer of the Get Away Lunch Recital series.

It was during this middle stage of her life, that she was finally free to pursue her dream of playing the harp, an instrument she first encountered in high school at a friend’s house. “The harp has an aura about it that other instruments don’t have,” ASHLEY AVITABILE (2)

Baldwin says. “It has a ‘wow’ factor.” Describing the instrument as having “a sound similar to water,” Baldwin chalks her late start up to the fact that, aside

Best known for her

from being one of the most expensive instruments

mastery of the harp,

to play, it’s very difficult to find competent harp

Jan Baldwin’s thing

teachers. Regardless, she believes people know the

for strings extends to

instrument they are meant to play simply because

intricate hand-loomed

it is inside of them. Baldwin encourages parents

weavings (opposite).

38 Milford Living • Summer

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6/17/10 8:01:02 PM

accommodate others when she plays at memorial services at CodyWhite Funeral Home. “People who are grieving will always remember those songs and tie them into that experience,” she says.

Baldwin is sensitive to those in grief and feels drawn to this kind of service. “I feel called to do this because I know people who are grieving that are really comforted by the harp.”

In fact, Baldwin is able to draw an interesting parallel between the harp and the loom. “The loom is a wooden structure with strings tied on very tightly. You weave into it to make your pattern. The harp is a wooden structure with strings tied on very tightly. You pluck the strings to make your music.” This close correlation is indicative of her smooth transition from harp to loom.

She uses the loom and her weavings to “express the

Despite her love of music and success with

impressions of the indigenous cultures.”

it in the community, Baldwin reveals that she

While Baldwin has loved being an artist, she

is traveling full-circle back to visual arts as she

admits that there are many challenges. There is

embarks on the next stage of her artistic career.

Nowadays she spends most of her time painting and weaving, using watercolors to paint flowers, and a loom to weave tapestries based upon the ancient work of the Mayans, Aztecs, and Native Americans.

not much money in the profession, and it’s difficult to gather and keep a following. “Publicity might be the greatest challenge,” she confesses, explaining the difficulties of letting people know of an upcoming performance or exhibition.

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2010 • Milford Living 39

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arts + artisans While Baldwin attests that many artists go on

town atmosphere with big-city benefits,” she

to become teachers, she explains that teaching

offers. In fact, to kick off this new visual art stage

can sometimes be “watering down your ability

of her life, she will be showcasing her works in an

to be a true artist.” Teachers simply enable their

upcoming exhibition called “Looms ‘n Blooms,”

students to express themselves, rather than

to be held at Case Memorial Library in Orange

creating their own work. Her best advice to

beginning July 8, 2010.

aspiring artists? “If you can do anything else, do

Be it harp, organ, piano, painting, or weaving,

it. Only go into art and music as a career if, in

one thing is certain: Jan Baldwin is one of the most

your heart, you can’t do anything else.” A person

talented artists today in Milford, and there is no

must have a true love and passion for art and be

limit to where her creativity and passion will flow.

ASHLEY AVITABILE

willing to “make sacrifices” for their profession.

Regardless of all the difficulties along the way, Jan Baldwin has been extremely successful. “I have been very fortunate that I consider myself

—Jessica Avitabile Visit Jan Baldwin’s exhibit “Looms ‘n Blooms” at the Case Memorial Library, 176 Tyler City Rd., Orange. The exhibit, also showcasing photographer

to have made a living,” she says. She credits the

One of the paintings that Baldwin will

Barbara Curri, will have an opening reception on

town of Milford for being supportive and creating

feature in her “Looms ‘n Blooms” art

Thursday, July 8 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Her works

a great work environment. “Milford has a small-

exhibit throughout the month of July.

will be on exhibit throughout the month of July.

G

(

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historical perspective Mark Lofthouse and his son Christian ride along with the cannon at the Memorial Day Parade.

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SUSAN CARROLL-DWYER

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Revolutionary Return M

ILFORD WILL BE SAFE ONCE AGAIN from British Man O’ War

many years in the Clapp House—on the west side of Milford Harbor—

ships and pillaging pirates. The Revolutionary War

where Fort Trumbull once stood. The position of Fort Trumbull was

cannon that stood guard at the mouth of the harbor for

so strategic that no ships dared enter its range; subsequently the

hundreds of years is back. After vacationing for decades in

cannons were never fired in an engagement. When Clapp moved to

Florida, the cannon that once guarded our shore from tyrants

Florida, the cannon went with him.

and marauders has returned safely home to Milford.

The cannon is exceptional and unique; unlike the few remaining

Enter Milford residents and history lovers, Peter Spalthoff and Mark Lofthouse, who were chatting about the cannon one day.

examples from the Revolutionary War, the Fort Trumbull cannon

Mark went to school with Daniel Clapp (son of Clarence Clapp), and

(the only remaining cannon of the six that once stood guard over the

decided to give his old friend a call. “In the 1970s, the Clapp family

Harbor) retains its original wheels from the late eighteenth century.

would fire the cannon on the Fourth of July out toward Charles

Although it bears no foundry markings (forging armaments in the

Island using wooden shells,” recalls Lofthouse. “Having grown up

Colonies was frowned upon by the British and met with severe

playing at Fort Trumbull with my friend Dan Clapp, it makes me

punishment if traced to its maker), the cannon was cast at the

very proud to play a small role in having returned the Fort Trumbull

Lakeville Foundry in upstate Connecticut, where more than 850 tons

cannon to Milford,” Mark says. Dan Clapp is also excited about the

of artillery were cast over the course of the war.

endeavor. “History is a beautiful thing and we are happy to return

So how did the cannon get to Florida? Clarence Clapp resided for

this amazing piece of history back home to Milford where it belongs.”

42 Milford Living • Summer

Historical Perspective.indd 42

6/16/10 8:44:30 PM

his

ng

he

Library, currently housing the Milford Chamber of Commerce.

part of Milford’s history back home

Milfordites got their first look

and I am so excited and appreciative

at the cannon during this year’s

of having the opportunity to do

Memorial Day Parade, the

so,” said Peter Spalthoff, who, in

enthusiastic crowd roaring as it

1996 helped fund the return of the

made its way along the Green.

Simon Lake Submarine. “While I am

The cannon will require some

not a born and raised Milfordite,

restoration, and plans are in

I can still appreciate the history

the works to replace the wood

that the cannon has in Milford. I

The Clapp House at Fort Trumbull with the cannon visible toward the right.

marvel at the fact that it is still in excellent condition these many years later, and that it is back in Milford for everyone to see.”

that supports the barrel of the cannon. Fundraising efforts

and donations will help prepare the cannon for its new location.

As Mark Lofthouse says, “We are very fortunate that the Clapp

The Fort Trumbull cannon has had a long journey home—over one thousand miles on a flatbed truck. Proposed sites for the cannon

family members have been so generous to loan this priceless artifact back to Milford.”

—Susan Carroll-Dwyer

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2010 • Milford Living 43

Historical Perspective.indd 43

6/17/10 8:05:25 PM

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money matters

Inflation Nation

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T’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN:

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th

ci

in

summer

are hovering around 2 percent. Tax rates are

barbeques, kayaking, biking,

beach going, or just kicking back and relaxing with family and friends at home here in beautiful Milford. For the last two summers, many of us stayed home during

28 percent. Core Inflation for 2009 was 1.68

a

percent; including food and energy it was

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over 4 percent. In 1981 that same $1.00 per

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gallon would be the equivalent of $2.98

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per gallon in inflation-adjusted 2010

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dollars. $100,000 invested in a MMA

what was considered the worst

instrument would be equal to $67,000

recession in fifty years. But this

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in today’s dollars. That’s right, adjusted

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summer, as the economy has

for inflation, your purchasing power

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stabilized (even improved on

eroded your money by approximately

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many fronts), many are feeling

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30 percent.

better about the nation’s

What is the real definition of

financial picture and are ready

inflation? The modern definition

to go out and spend some

of inflation is a persistent increase

money or take a vacation.

in the level of consumer prices or a

Since vacationing usually

persistent decline in the purchasing

includes some form of

power of money. According to this

transportation, you can be

definition, inflation is about things

pretty sure, whether flying

getting more expensive. But that

or driving, that it will be more

is really the effect of inflation, not

expensive to get where you want to

inflation itself. The common usage

go. Gas prices typically go up during

of the word inflation is the effect that

peak driving/travel season. Why does

people see. When they see prices in their

this happen? In one word, inflation.

local stores, the cost of education, housing,

Twenty years ago this summer, core

healthcare, utilities, and property taxes all

inflation was at 12.67 percent. Factoring

going up, they call it inflation.

in food and energy—two basic things we need to survive—it was even higher at almost 15 percent. Certificate of Deposits (CDs), and Money Market Accounts (MMA) were averaging a 14 percent rate (tax rates were higher too, around 50 percent). The price for a gallon

But what is being inflated? Prices. So this is actually price inflation, which is the result of monetary inflation.

(In other words, monetary inflation is the cause of price inflation.) So what is monetary inflation and where does it come from?

Monetary inflation is an increase in the amount of currency

of gas was just over $1.00. *All sources for

in circulation. In the old days, the government revved up the

statistics www.bls.gov.

printing presses and increased the money supply, keeping rates

Fast forward to today, where, as of this

artificially low for extended periods of time, and giving incentives,

writing, the price of a gallon of gas is

which ultimately caused inflation to occur down the road. The

averaging around $3.00. CDs and MMAs

government today has more advanced methods of increasing the

44 Milford Living • Summer

Money matters.indd 44

6/16/10 8:03:32 PM

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money supply, beginning with the definition of currency in circulation. Is it just the cash in our pockets? Does it include the money in our checking accounts? How about our savings accounts? What about Money Market Accounts, CDs, and time deposits? The Federal Reserve tracks and measures the money supply with three different ways. These three money supply measures (M1,

“Many people mistakenly believe that prices rise because businesses want to make greater profits at the expense of the public. In a free enterprise system, this is not completely the case.”

faster than the quantity of goods increases, we have inflation. Interestingly, as the supply of goods increases, the money supply has to increase or else prices actually go down. Many people mistakenly believe that prices rise because businesses want to make greater profits at the expense of the public. In a

free enterprise system, this is not completely the case. Because of

M1 being the most liquid and M3 including giant deposits held by

competition, businesses that succeed are those that provide the

foreign banks. M2 is somewhere in between, and includes cash,

highest quality goods for the lowest price. So a business can’t just

checking, and savings accounts.

arbitrarily raise its prices anytime it wants. If it did that, before

It’s Never Too Early And Rarely Too Late To Plan

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increases the money supply

M2, M3) track slightly different views of the money supply, with

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So when the government

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Money matters.indd 45

• Medicaid/Title 19 Planning and Application • LifeCare Planning • Asset Protection Planning • Wills & Living Trusts • Special Needs Trusts • Probate & Estate Administration • Conservatorships • Gift Planning • Powers of Attorney & Living Wills • Nursing Home & Assisted Living Planning • Long-Term Care Planning • Tax Planning • Family Limited Partnerships & LLCs 10/31/06 3:07:44 PM 2010 • Milford Living 45

6/16/10 8:03:42 PM

N Type

money matters

You can be more efficient where your household budget is concerned. There are numerous things you can do, from grocery shopping to creating energy efficiencies in your home, to how, where, and what you drive. The important thing to do is to make conscientious and conscience purchases of long all of its customers would

all kinds, from groceries to gasoline to investments. Find the best deals you can, wherever you can.

be buying from someone else with the same or similar product

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or service at a lower price.

(Walmart anyone?)

But if each dollar is worth less because the supply of dollars has increased, all businesses are forced to raise prices just to get the same value for their products.

Sources: For statistics visit www.bls.gov; for general visit www.consumer reports.org, www.aaa.com, www.gasbuddy.com, www.couponsurfer.com; www.grocerysavingtips. com; for investments/interest rate information visit www. morningstar.com or www.bankrate.com.

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Money matters.indd 46

6/17/10 8:11:37 PM

CONGRATULATIONS The Lauralton Hall Class of 2010 rejoices upon having received their diplomas.

Congratulations to these lovely ladies, and all graduating seniors in Milford! Wishing you the best of luck in everything that you do!

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2010 • Milford Living 47

Condratulations.indd 47

6/17/10 8:17:09 PM

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senior corner

Redefining Retirement

T

HE DICTIONARY DEFINES THE WORD “RETIRE” in several ways: “to

withdraw, as for rest or seclusion”; “to go to bed”; and “to fall

back or retreat, as from battle.” A determined Milford woman, however, formed her own concept of retirement based upon a much different perspective, one that took into consideration

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There has been a tremendously positive response to the group since

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its inception. Originally, Milford Library sponsored the meetings, which

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five or six women would attend. But slowly, says Weinberg, over a period

a

of months, “we outgrew it and needed more space.” Now, a typical

g

meeting has forty to fifty attendees. Golden Hill has

the losses retired people often face.

been a godsend for WRR and Weinberg feels

Barbara Weinberg, a local

fortunate to have been able to connect with

psychotherapist of more than thirty

a

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fo

the facility.

years, felt strongly that there “was a

The WRR program has been so well

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need for a support system for new

received, in fact, that others have

b

contacted Weinberg for help in

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women retirees.” As a result, she created Women Redefining

starting similar organizations.

Retirement (WRR), one of the

They are learning from an

fastest-growing organizations

expert. Weinberg has been

in the area, with an exploding

the clinical supervisor of the

local membership including

mental health program at the

people from other towns

University of Bridgeport and

seeking her counsel to start

has run many women’s and

their own groups.

couples’ groups over the years.

A monthly meeting of the

There is an unquestionably

group is held the second Monday

informal feel to the group. There

of each month at the Golden Hill

are no dues and everyone feels

Health Care Center on Bridgeport

empowered to contribute something.

Avenue. “The bottom line issue for retired

Weinberg emphasizes that a woman

or soon to be retired women is loss,” Weinberg

does not have to have worked “outside” the

explains. “There’s a ‘loss of

home in order to join.

purpose’ where kids are gone, jobs

The WRR Steering Committee: (left to right, front) Toby Zabinski,

are over, and energy is not what

Lynn Ramos, founder Barbara Weinberg, Evelyn Duffner; (back row)

is made up of women “between

it used to be.” A recently retired

Joyce Haig, Eva Copeland, Fran Cappelli. Missing: Susan Kopsco

the ages of 55-75 who have retired

woman, says Weinberg, often

According to Weinberg, the group

or are considering retiring soon.

finds herself thinking, “Now what do I do?” Explaining her decision to

Many are in their sixties and are/were schoolteachers. All are searching

limit the group to women, Weinberg differentiates between the needs

for a connection,” a phrase she uses more than once and an apt way of

of men and women at retirement age. “Women are searching for a

describing WRR. At a typical meeting, a speaker described the work her

connection,” she says. “They’ve often been caregivers and there has

non-profit organization does within the community and then everyone

been a loss of community and friends. Women have a need for deeper

broke up into smaller groups to personally experienced some of what

conversation as they get to know each other well. Men tend to have

they had just learned.

less intimate relationships.”

Aside from the large monthly meeting, smaller groups get together

48 Milford Living • Summer

Senior Corner.indd 48

6/17/10 8:08:35 PM

l

back to the community. Being of value is

goes out for dinner, another goes

very important to WRR.”

bowling, while Barbara leads a

As our population continues to age

support group called “Connections.”

well and live longer, groups like WRR

There is also an action committee

will assist in providing avenues for

KATHY NEMEC LUCAS (2)

d

socially. One set of members

that endeavors to find ways to aid the community at large. The group, Weinberg explains, “has adopted the Beth-El Shelter by

women to stay vital while availing themselves of important projects that help the community at large. Like these ladies, future generations will

donating food each month and

Making connections is what Women Redefining Retirement

perpetuate the work begun today and

managing an ongoing sock bank

is all about, whether that means working with non-profit

make themselves feel they still have

for the homeless in Bridgeport.

organizations or sitting down to a game of Pinochle.

things to learn and fun to have.

—Nick Olshansky

Additionally, donations have been accepted for the Haitian disaster and the New Haven Home Recovery. It seems that every month another way is found to give

For more information, visit www.womendefiningretirement.com or email barbaraweinberg@gmail.com.

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2010 • Milford Living 49

Senior Corner.indd 49

6/16/10 8:50:17 PM

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Calendar of Events

50 Milford Living • Summer

July July 1 – July 31

Looms ’n Blooms Mondays & Thursdays 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Wednesdays & Fridays 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Saturdays 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

An exhibit of watercolors and handwoven tapestries by Jan Baldwin and photographs by Barbara Curri.

Case Memorial Library, Orange CT. Contact: 203–891–2170

July 10 – September 25

Guided Canoe Tours Audubon Coastal Center The Audubon Coastal Center will be offering guided canoe tours of the Charles Wheeler Salt Marsh on Saturdays and Sundays over the summer. You can bring your own canoe or canoes are available to rent.

Contact the Coastal Center for dates and times. Registration and fees apply. For information call 203–878– 7440 or www.ctaudubon.org.

July 29 – August 26

July 10

Peabody Museum on the Road: Rocks and Minerals 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department This traveling exhibit by the Peabody Museum offers a hands-on program for kids. An interesting way for children to learn about geology. Free. Call 203.783.3312 for more information.

July 10, 11

July 16

24th Annual New England Arts and Crafts Festival 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Milford Green Enjoy a stroll on the Green and see interesting creations by local artists and craftsmen. Free. Contact: 203.878.6647 or visit www.milfordarts.org.

July 12

Children’s Book Club 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department Get your child reading with the Children’s Book Club. Books will be discussed and it is a great way to involve your child in the magical world of books.

For more information call 203.783.3312.

Close Ups Exhibit Firehouse Art Gallery View a unique exhibit of Close Ups at the Firehouse Art Gallery. Opening reception, Thursday July 29th – 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Free. Gallery hours are Thursday – Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. For more information call 203.306.0016 or visit www.milfordarts.org.

WRR: Betsey Ratner – Dreams 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Golden Hill Health Care Center The Women Redefining Retirement will host Betsey Ratner discussing dreams. Free. For more information call 203.874.4344 or visit www.womenredefiningretirement.com.

July 8

July 13

Shop, Dine & Play 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Downtown Milford merchants Enjoy special shopping discounts and refreshments at downtown Milford shops and restaurants.

For more information visit www.downtownmilfordct.com.

July 9

Summer Nights by Harbor Lights Concert 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Bring your lawn chair and a snack to enjoy a concert by Steve D’Agostino, singin’ & swingin’ the great American standards. Free. Sponsored

by Kapusta, Otzel & Averaimo Attorneys at Law.

July 15

Farmer’s Market 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Agro parking lot, River Street Local farmers bring their fresh produce, beekeepers bring their honey, and other local agricultural products are for sale. A fun way to support our local farms. Music and other features vary weekly. For more information visit www.downtownmilfordct.com.

Jay Mankita “Splash-Along Songs“ 11:00AM – 12:00 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department Children’s entertainer Jay Mankita presents his “Splash-Along Songs“ children’s concert. A fun event where kids can sing along! For more information call 203.783.3312.

July 14

Al de Cant’s “Make a Splash-READ“ Musical Story Time 10:30AM – 11:30AM. Milford Public Library, Children’s Department Children’s entertainer Al deCant will perform the musical “Make a Splash– READ.“ This children’s concert and singa-long will be a toe-tapping good time.

For more information call 203.783.3312.

Summer Nights by Harbor Lights Concert 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Bring your lawn chair and a snack to enjoy a concert by the Southford Falls Quartet. Free. Hosted by The Milford Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by Kapusta, Otzel & Averaimo Attorneys at Law.

July 19

Shakespeare Summer Theater Camp Milford Fine Arts Council A great way to introduce kids between ages 5–18 to the writings of William Shakespeare. A two-week program with a final performance on Friday, July 30th. Program fee: $250.00 per student. For more information call 203.878.6647 or visit www.milfordarts.org.

July 20

Tucker’s Tales Puppet Theater: “Drakestail – The Creative Duck“ 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department This comical puppet show highlights creativity for children. Free. For more information call 203.783.3312.

Family Game Night 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department Everyone is welcome for family game night! Play classics like Chutes & Ladders, Battleship, and Jenga. Free.

For information call 203.783.3312.

July 22

“The Rainbow Fish“ Drama Workshop 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department Creative Dramatics will conduct “The Rainbow Fish“ drama workshop for ages 4–6 and ages 7–11. Workshop will focus on dramatic performance.

Registration is required. For more information call 203.783.3312.

August 9

Summer Guitar Workshop Milford Fine Arts Council The Summer Guitar Workshop is open to children between the ages of 9–12 and 13–18. It is a two week program with a final performance on Thursday, August 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Workshop fee is $200.00 per student.

For more information call 203–878– 6647 or visit www.milfordarts.org.

Mary Hegarty Neschke

WRR: Stacey Enyeart – America’s Home Front Heroes 7:00P.M. – 8:30p.m.

Golden Hill Health Care Center The Women Redefining Retirement will present a program by Stacey Enyeart author of “America’s Home Front Heroes.“ Free. For more information call 203.874.4344 or visit www.womenredefiningretirement.com.

Village Vogue – Handbag and Shoe Swap Party 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Tired of the handbag? Those fabulous shoes just too tight? Come to the Village Vogue Handbag & Shoe Swap Party. The swap parties at Village Vogue are fun and rewarding. For more information call 203.283.9400 or visit www.villagevogueboutique.com.

July 23

Summer Nights by Harbor Lights Concert 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Bring your lawn chair and a snack to enjoy a concert by the Milford Concert Band. Free. Sponsored by Kapusta, Otzel & Averaimo Attorneys at Law.

July 24

34th Annual Rotary Lobster Bake 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Milford Boatworks A summer tradition in Milford is the Rotary Lobster Bake. Come enjoy a twin lobster dinner or steak with all the fixings! Tickets are $40.00 per person. Contact: Tracy O’Brien at 203.877.8587.

July 26

Children’s Book Club 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m..

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department The Children’s Book Club is a great way to get your child reading books.

August 12

Discussions about the books help children gain different perspectives on reading. Free. For more information call 203.783.3312.

July 30

Summer Nights by Harbor Lights Concert 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Bring your lawn chair and a snack to enjoy a concert by Gunsmoke.

Free. Sponsored by Kapusta, Otzel & Averaimo Attorneys at Law.

July 31

Return to the Emerald Room Dance 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Walnut Beach will have its second Big Band music dance at the Walnut Beach Pavilion. This event is free to the public thanks to the generosity of sponsor, Harlow, Adams, and Friedman law firm of Milford.

August August 1

The 12th Annual Walnut Beach Arts Festival 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Kick-off the day at 7:00 a.m. with the Walnut Beach 5k Ice Cream Run. Free ice cream for every runner/walker and a free kid’s run at 8:00 a.m. The festival opens at 10:00 a.m. Local artists will be on hand to share their talents, musical performances, and much more.

August 4

“Make A Hawaiian Splash“ Hula Program 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department Kahana Hula presents a fun program about the Hula dance. Learn the meaning behind the arm movements and hip swiveling of Hula and the stories they can tell. Free. For more information call 203.783.3312.

August 6

Summer Nights by Harbor Lights Concert 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Come and bring your lawn chairs and a bite to eat and enjoy a lively concert by Vinn Carr & the Party Band.

Free. Hosted by The Milford Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by Kapusta, Otzel & Averaimo Attorneys at Law.

August 7

Great American Sand Sculpture Competition 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Walnut Beach Come check out the remarkable sculptors who come from far and wide to compete. Competition is open for several categories of sculptors: children, families, and friends. Registration from 12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., sculpting from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., judging and awards from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Free.

For more information call 203.878.6647

Distribution Solution: How Does Water Get to Your Faucet 1:30p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department The Regional Water Authority will present a hands-on science program that will teach children about the workings of our water supply. For grades K–12. Registration is required.

For more information call 203.783.3312.

Estimation and Experimentation 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department The Regional Water Authority will offer a hands-on program for grades 3–5. Registration is required. For more information call 203.783.3312.

Shop, Dine & Play 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Downtown Milford merchants Enjoy special shopping discounts and refreshments at Downtown Milford shops and restaurants. For more information visit www.downtownmilfordct.com.

August 13

Summer Nights by Harbor Lights Concert 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Bring a lawn chair and your favorite snack to enjoy a concert by Flashback.

Free. Sponsored by Kapusta, Otzel & Averaimo Attorneys at Law.

2010 • Milford Living 51

MHS Class of 1970 Reunion $40 per person includes buffet dinner and disc jockey at Aldario’s. Contact Reunion Coordinator Joel Boncek to make your reservation: joel24@ optonline.net. Join fellow MHS alumni at the Walnut Beach Pavilion on the 14th for an afternoon musical concert from 12:00 p.m.– 6:00 p.m.

August 15

For the Love of Flags 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Milford Historical Society David Gregory will offer a program about flags and their history. These colorful symbols have great stories behind them. Free. For more information call 203.874.2664 or visit www.milfordhistoricalsociety.org.

August 17

Family Game Night 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Milford Public Library, Children’s Department Bring the family and play classic board games such as Chutes & Ladders, Battleship, and Jenga.

Free. For more information call 203.783.3312.

August 20

Friday at the Fest 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Downtown Milford Friday at the Fest has become a popular event to kick-off the Milford Oyster Festival. Admission is $5.00. For more information call 203.878.5363 or visit www.milfordoysterfestival.org.

Open Doors Artist Receptions 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Come view doors transformed into works of art at participating downtown Milford merchants on the Friday night of Oyster Festival.

Meet the Artist at the store where the Door “resides“ and network over refreshments. Fundraiser for Milford Fine Arts Council.

For more information visit www.downtownmilfordct.com.

August 21

35th Annual Milford Oyster Festival 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Downtown Milford There’s something for everyone— arts, crafts, children’s entertainment, classic cars, harbor activities (canoe/ kayak race, PT boat rides & schooner

tours), carnival rides, main stage concerts, and of course an exceptional food court which will have oysters by the thousands. Free. For more information call 203.878.5363 or visit www.milfordoysterfestival.org.

September 10

September

Jazz Series Concert 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Milford Fine Arts Council Come and enjoy an evening of Jazz.

Performer to be announced. Tickets are $15.00. For more information call 203.878.6647 or visit www.milfordarts.org.

September 9 – September 30

September 13

Bon Appétit Exhibit 6:00 p.m.– 8:00 p.m.

Firehouse Art Gallery See artworks of epicurean delights.

Opening reception September 9th.

Free. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

For more information call 203.306.0016 or visit www.milfordarts.org.

WRR: Joyce Saltman – Humor 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Golden Hill Health Care Center The Women Redefining Retirement will sponsor a lecture by Joyce Saltman on humor. Free. For more information call 203.874.4344 or visit www.womenredefiningretirement.com.

September 9

Performance Coffeehouse 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Milford Fine Arts Council Come and enjoy the popular MFAC coffeehouse. Performer to be announced. Tickets are $10.00. For more information call 203.878.6647 or visit www.milfordarts.org.

Shop, Dine & Play 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Downtown Milford merchants Enjoy special shopping discounts and refreshments at Downtown Milford shops and restaurants.

For more information visit www.downtownmilfordct.com.

September 17

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.

52 Milford Living • Summer

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5TH ANNUAL IRISH FESTIVAL 11:00 a.m – 9:00 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Sponsored by the Irish Heritage Society of Milford. The festival goes on rain or shine and will feature Irish music, dancing, youth activities, a cultural tent, tea room, Irish wares and fine food and drink. No parking at the festival site; free shuttle bus service available to and from the Westfield Connecticut Post Mall.

Contact: www.milford irish.org

September 19

19TH ANNUAL FOLKS ON SPOKES – FOLKS OF FOOT FUNDRAISER 10:00AM – 1:00 p.m.

Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion Annual fundraiser for Bridges, A Community Support System, Inc. Folks on Spokes can choose from a number of routes from 5–66 miles. Folks on Foot will do a 5k (3.1 miles) non–competitive walk or run from Fowler Field to Fort Trumbull Beach and back. Begin and end at Fowler Field. For more information call 203.878.6365 or visit www.bridgesmilford.org.

N

September 19

OPEN DOORS GALA 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Milford Fine Arts Council The one-of-a-kind artistic doors showcased around Downtown Milford will be auctioned as a benefit for the MFAC. For more information visit www.downtownmilfordct.com.

Or call 203.878.6647.

Type

September 23

VILLAGE VOGUE – FALL PREVIEW SWAP & SHOP 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Need a cozy sweater? A funky pair of boots? Come to Village Vogue for the Fall Preview Swap & Shop. For more information call 203.283.9400 or visit www.villagevogueboutique.com.

MARY HEGARTY NESCHKE

. s

September 18

September 25, 26

MEET THE ARTISTS AND ARTISANS 10:00am – 5:00pm.

This nationally renowned art show offers a remarkable opportunity to see the artists at work. Fine jewelry, sculpture, photography, painters, glass artists and much more! Enjoy great food and beautiful music. Free! For more information call 203.874.5672 or visit www.meettheartistsandartisans.com.

September 25

2ND ANNUAL WINE TRAIL 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Downtown Milford Downtown retailers team up with Milford’s best restaurants and with Milford Wine and Spirits. Ticket holders stroll from store to store, enjoy delicious

food, and taste a variety of wines while shopping a great array of one-of-a-kind boutiques that will be have special sales throughout the evening. Tickets: $40.00 per person. Proceeds to benefit Bodies Place. For more information visit www.downtownmilfordct.com.

Celebrating 30 Years in Milford!

Trained Experts Specializing in American & Foreign Cars

Bumper to Bumper Service • Tune Ups • Engine Replacement • Front End Good Work at a Fair Price!

Peter Curtis, Owner

• Transmissions • Brakes & Shocks • Oil Changes

Hours: Monday–Friday Saturday

8:00am-5:00pm 8:00am-1:00pm

Great selection of quality used cars!

www.ctusedcars.com/stopandgo

916 Bridgeport Avenue • 203-878-5735 2010 • Milford Living 53

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Fishing Charles expressions

Location: Silver Sands State Park Taken: September 2009 Photographer: Timothy Burke Mannle Notes: I had been inspired to start shooting pictures again. With my new found focus, I picked up my

Canon and set out for Silver Sands. Shooting HDR (High Dynamic Range) was the mission and I was excited since it was totally new to me. I made my way down the boardwalk, hitting the beach with excitement. My eyes were quickly drawn and focused, my subject so apparent: three fishermen wading the exposed sandbar to Charles Island. After a few attempts made laying in sand and navigating slippery stones, I managed to capture the three exposures that would ultimately comprise this final look. It was important to me to show Milford and Charles Island in all their glory. We often forget how lucky we are to have such wonderful sights all around us.

54 Milford Living • Summer

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6/15/10 8:53:55 PM

where is it?

Answer to Last Issue’s Quiz:

The site pictured is the sunflower sculpture at 64 Cherry Street.

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.

Alberta Jagoe Diane Kruger Cheryl Morgan Charles Pape William Weishaupt

Want your very own Milford Living t-shirt?

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

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next issue • autumn 2010

Scenic Strolls

in Milford

Milford’s Roots Run Deep

Savor Summer Flavors

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 • Summer

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