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Greetings of theSeason T

he giving and receiving of Christmas cards is a hallowed holiday tradition. Yet while we all know the story of the first Christmas, the story of the first Christmas card has gotten a little less publicity than the big event in that little town of Bethlehem.

By and large historians agree that the first mass-produced Christmas card was the result of a time-

crunched, civic-minded English gentleman. It was 1843, and Sir Henry Cole didn’t have time to send hand written greetings (as was the custom) to all his acquaintances, urging

them to be charitable and remember the poor. He commissioned

artist John Horsley to create an illustration that featured colorful, happy revellers flanked by somber images of the destitute in

need. 1,000 copies were printed, and despite early naysayers who called it “a fad,” the idea caught on. The advent of the penny

stamp around the same time did much to encourage the practice of mailing Christmas cards.

Photo Christmas cards began appearing at the turn of the 20th

century after Kodak introduced a bellows camera that printed postcards. For the most part, those early images of angelic

children and oddly shaped Christmas trees remain the central

subjects of the holiday photo cards we send and receive today, more than a century later (although the trees have gotten a lot better looking.) Even in these days of instant photos on

phones and a Facebook full of family images, photo cards retain a certain kind of charm. Truthfully, there’s an old fashioned constancy in being able to chart the growth of your cross country cousins year after year.

So while the “family photo” these days might include dogs,

cats, hamsters, vehicles, bad sweaters, Disney princesses, Sponge Bob, or some other relevant cultural icon, the original intent of the card remains unchanged: greeting to friends and family,

thoughts of peace, and happy wishes for a new year filled with health, wealth, love, and laughter. 26 Milford Living • Winter Autumn

2012 • Milford Living 27

Greetings of the Season

The giving and receiving of holiday greetings remains a hallowed tradition.

A New Year – A New You! Solutions for your Resolutions Question: “What is your new year’s resolution?” Answer: “I hadn’t really thought about it.” But what you are really thinking is: “Ugh. I really should try to lose a few pounds. Or save more money. Or exercise more. Or take better care of myself. Or read that stack of books next to my bed. Or quit smoking. Or get out of debt...” We may, in fact, dread the forced self-examination that is a natural extension of the whole “out with the old, in with the new” rigmarole. But it is part of human nature to look back and reflect. In fact, the month of January gets its name from Janus, the Roman god of two-faces, one that looks backward to the old year, the other looking forward into the new. As far back as the ancient Babylonians, the New Year has signified a break with the past, a new beginning, and an opportunity to bring positive change to our lives and the lives of those around us. These days people too often view the concept of personal change as a negative: here’s the silent

dialogue that goes on in our heads: “Oh no, I have to change something. That means what I’m doing now is broken or wrong, which is not good! That means it will be hard to fix and that will make me really uncomfortable.” Alternatively, people wrestling with resolutions could learn a lot from advertisers and their frequent use of the phrase “New and Improved!” How much better do you feel thinking, “I’m going to make myself new and improved!” No negative connotations. No feeling “broken.” Just, “I’m fine the way I am, but I’m going to be even better!” The key to becoming your new and improved self is the belief that any change, no matter how small, will make a difference in the quality of your life, or the lives of those you love. So celebrate ALL of the victories— whether it’s a new job, a ten-pound weight loss, one less cigarette, a clean kitchen, a daring new hairstyle, or finally being on time for work—and you will be well on your way to being new and improved! Happy New Year!

Tranquility Wellness Spa M

ake the commitment to a complete wellness program and take the journey with Tranquility Mind & Body Wellness Spa. Special $69 massage with membership program. Getting a massage regularly can play a big part in how healthy and youthful you will be with each passing year. When you make massage a necessary part of your health and wellness plan, the benefits are amazing! Experts estimate that upwards of 90% of disease is stress related. Nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure in our fast-paced world may be impossible, massage therapy: Alleviates aches & pains • Enhances the immune system • Provides greater energy • Improves concentration • Increases circulation • Reduces fatigue & depression. Yoga offers so many tremendous benefits and works hand in hand with massage.At Tranquility Mind & Body, our yoga classes ensure renewal of a healthier you through a combination of movement, breath and meditation. A committed yoga practice will enhance your stability, improve your balance and flexibility, and leave you stronger, healthier and centered!

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34 Milford Living • Winter

A New Year—A New You

4 5 6 8 10 12 16 18 20 22 42 46 48 50 54 55 56

Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters This Season At Home Green Life Milford Spotlight At Your Service Family Time Education Notebook Sunday Drive Milford Morsels Money Matters Senior Corner Historical Perspective Expressions Where is It? Next Issue

A better you revealed.

M i l f o r d L i v i n g for Living

About the cover: For the cover of our winter issue, photographer Mary Hegarty Neschke presents us with a photographic is

EE n’ EZ G HECKIN

Milford

ways...

HLY FEE NO MONT Cards! for Debit

on New Haven Avenue and The Canvas Patch in downtown Milford. You may also view her work on display at the Milford Winter 2012

sit one of our offices!

www.milfordbank.com Member FDIC

winter wonderland. The photo is entitled “Winter in Milford”. Her work is available for purchase at MHN Photo Gallery Fine Arts, Milford Library, Gallery on the Green, Milford Photo, and the Milford Chamber of Commerce.

2012 • Milford Living 1

WINTER 2012 VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 4 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

Ashley Avitable, Susan Carroll-Dwyer, Zak DePiero, Bob Harrington

Contributing Editors

Gracemary Avitabile, McKenzie Granata

Contributing Writers

Susan Carroll-Dwyer, Cindy Papish Gerber, Susan Glennon, McKenzie Granata, Kate Harrington, William MacDonald, Richard Platt, Margeaux Settineri, Makayla Silva, Greta Stifel, Ashley Volkens

Production Assistance

Zinelle, Jacquie Oster, Kevin Maher

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

Web Design

Greyson Schwing/Antelope Networks Zinelle/Z1 Design

Interns

Ashley Avitabile, Jessica Avitabile, Ariel Lyon, Margeaux Settineri, Gina Rose Sirico, Ashley Volkens

Milford Living Magazine 162 Bridgeport Avenue Milford CT 06460 203-283-5290 http://www.milfordliving.com

Red Mat Media Directors

Laura Guthrie, Timothy L. Lyon, Scott Standerfer 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 2003-2012 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.

Printed in the USA. www.redmatmedia.com

2 Milford Living • Winter

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

publisher’s letter

Dear Friends & Neighbors, Having closed our last chapter in the book of 2011,

Flooring Milford for over 50 years!

the new year ushers us forward into a season of new beginnings. Each new year is a time to celebrate and pause to reflect on the wonder of our friends, family, and community. As time moves forward, we fix our hopes on what lies ahead. For it is the rare person who does not see the regeneration of Father Time as anything other than a chance to start anew, explore joy, and infuse optimism into this great life. How refreshing it is to usher the new year in with crisp winter air, to pull out the toasty Irish sweaters, and wrap ourselves in comfort and joy. We think of what may lie ahead in the months of graduations and summer vacations, and we bundle our children and selves in the warmth for those never-forgotten trips to a frozen pond—recalling all that is pure and simple in life. We remember to shovel the walk of a neighbor in need and, if we are lucky, we can sit at home with friends in front of a roaring fire and toast just being there. Winter is a time to celebrate, share, support, and dream; to snuggle,

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importantly, winter is a time to come together and share a warm life under a cool, crisp blanket of snow.

Wishing you all the best for all of your tomorrows.

on your floor purchase!

Visit our website for details.

Travel Agent

laugh, and remember; to carry on the holiday spirit all year long. But most

Suzanne Cahill-Manning

Publisher

readers’ letters Thank you to all of our kind readers who

What a treasure this publication has

take the time to share their thoughts about

become! Exquisite photography, always up to

Milford Living with us all year through. We

date on the current Milford scene, as well as

appreciate your support and thank you for

fascinating history.

enabling us to be a living part of Milford

—Rhoda Myers, Milford

with you.

Our married daughter (Wierzbicki) lives in Milford and we like keeping up to date with

Thanks so much for a great magazine. My This is the only magazine we subscribe to.

father grew up in Woodmont and worked on

Milford happenings, especially the dining places for when we visit!

Love the local information and the quality

Treat’s Farm in the early 1940s from when

of content and colorful pictures. We have

he was ten years old through high school.

lived in Milford for seventy-nine years and

He’s 80 now and loves reading Milford

recognize many people we went to school

Living and does a lot of reminiscing about

for helping me stay connected! Love your

with. Thank you!

the good old days. Thanks again!

magazine. Part of me will always be in Milford.

—Richard Breitenbach, Milford

—Marilyn Castiglione, Sarasota, FL Lived in Milford for sixty years. Thank you

—Gary Takacs, Milford

—Patricia Tichy, Ocala, FL

Drop us a line… Please send your comments, contributions, suggestions, and questions to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460 or email us at info@milfordliving.com

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2012 • Milford Living 5

this season Before any official decision is made, our plows are already manned and on the roads.” Milford works with twenty-two plow groups—twelve city-owned, and the rest outside contractors. “The most important thing is that the Board of Education has to speak with the bus company,” said Kolwicz. “Durham School Services must know the situation well ahead of time, so they can get their buses ready.” “The good news is some of the information is already available to

Snow Day! A

GRAND TOTAL OF EIGHT OFFICIAL SNOW DAYS

were declared in Milford

last winter. While the first snowstorm was greeted with

you on the web,” says Kathy Bonetti, communications coordinator for Milford Public Schools. The web and print version of the Parent-

whoops of excitement, each successive blizzard was met with

Student Handbook addresses the specifics. “The onus is placed

a wee bit less enthusiasm. As Milford families watched the

upon the families themselves to find out if there’s a snow day

snow and schoolwork pile up, tests, meetings, appointments,

(and it’s been that way since I was a kid),” she adds. “Families are

and after school activities were rescheduled, postponed, or

instructed to watch the news, listen to the radio, or visit the district

altogether scrapped. According to Pam Griffin, administrative

website,” where updates are immediately posted. “Families may

assistant for Milford Public Schools, “February vacation was

also call the central offices (203-783-3400) to listen to a pre-recorded

eliminated (four days), a professional development day was

announcement if there is an altered school operating schedule.”

eliminated (one day), and three days were added onto the school year,” to make up for those days lost to all that white stuff. Will this year be any different? “We are hoping there will be a mild

Bonetti recognizes that snow days can place a huge inconvenience upon working parents. “Before/after school care must be arranged for; often times parents are stuck with no child care provider and need to

winter resulting in none or only a few snow days,” stated Dr. Elizabeth

stay home,” she said. That’s why planning ahead is essential. “Snow

E. Feser, the superintendent of Milford Public Schools. Optimistic

days,” Bonetti maintained,” are just the ‘nature of the beast’ if you live

forecasts aside, Feser acknowledges, “In making a decision to call off

in New England.”

school, student safety is always foremost in the decision.” That decision is made no later than 6:15 a.m. “Last winter was tough, but ended early,” recalls Bruce Kolwicz,

On the upside, snow days provide a rare chance to enjoy extra family time. “We pull the kids scooters into our unfinished basement and let the kids ride around,” said Bridget Cepalia. “We sled, build

director of Milford’s Public Works Department. “The Board of Education

snowmen, then enjoy hot chocolate by the fire and play some board

usually checks with us prior to making any announcement on closures

games. The kids wind up exhausted by dinner time!”

and delays. We study The Weather Channel and confer with the Fire

“They tend to be a nice break and an excuse to lounge—which doesn’t

Department, which will have access to more details. When it first

happen often in my busy house with four children,” said Lauri Ross,

starts to snow, the Police Department calls us between 4:00-5:00 a.m.

looking at the positive side of snow days. “My kids (16, 15, 12, and 10), and

6 Milford Living • Winter

often a house full of friends joins in shoveling, sledding, and of course, in a snowball fight

Kathy Attruia reports to work on snow days. But unlike her peers, Attruia

which—truth be told—usually ends in a

must use an electric wheelchair and

tear-fest.” Her youngest daughter, Claudia,

transport an electric scooter in her

an Orchard Hills fifth grader, expressed

van. “I need that scooter, so I try

mixed emotions about snow days. “It is

not to risk it by traveling in bad

fun to be outside having a big snowball

weather,” she says. “If I really HAVE

fight with your siblings, neighbors, and

to go in, sometimes my husband

even your parents,” she shared. “But I hate

will bring me and pick me up in his

being backed up on school work, and then we

four-wheel drive Subaru.”

have extra school days before summer.”

Kelly Warters truly cherishes snow

“It is important to remember that no one can control Mother Nature,” said Kathy Broderick, a New Hampshire native well acquainted with nor’easters. “As a single parent of an East Shore Middle School eighth grader and

days. “I’m not sure who loves them more, me or the kids,” she confessed. “They’re spontaneous and full of winter wonder-fun!” Clearly, the city and citizens of Milford are duly prepared for

Orchard Hills fifth grader, Broderick makes sure her kids keep up with their

any and all snow emergencies. So, stock up on that rock salt, bundle up,

workload. “But, like all of us, an unexpected day-off should be treasured!”

and bring on the snowplows!.

Like the rest of the staff at Jonathan Law High School, secretary

—Cindy Papish Gerber

2012 • Milford Living 7

at home to increase life expectancy, which is generally fifteen to twenty years. In addition, cleaning the air filter and humidifier monthly during the winter plays a major role in maintaining a furnace. Putting your house on a heating schedule by utilizing a programmable thermostat can help cut heating costs, according to Artz. He says keeping the thermostat at about 68 degrees regularly and then turning it down when you leave for the day saves energy and heat. At night, you can allow the temperature to dip and program the thermostat to kick the heat up a few degrees just before the

The Heat is On!

sound of your alarm. Because technology is constantly advancing on a daily basis, Artz says converting to a natural gas heating system

ILVERY LANDSCAPES OF SNOW-COVERED HILLS

temperatures, residents can also expect an

can be cost and energy efficient. Oil is going

and pine trees, frozen ponds with children

increase in the cost of heating their homes

by the wayside,” he said. “The Northeast is

gliding across the ice, and lacy snowflakes sticking to window pane—these are the images often associated with a New England winter. Frankly, the picturesque winters of

and businesses. The U.S. Energy Information Administration Winter Fuels Outlook, an annual report predicting winter heating bills across the

memory may not be as pleasantly anticipated

country, says natural gas users will see about 3

after last year’s pummeling snow season.

percent or $35 increase from last winter while

With days filled of back-breaking shoveling

oil users will see an 8 percent or $195 increase

and trying to figure out what the kids would

this year. Americans who use propane could

do on yet another snow day, Milfordites

pay between $60 and $245 more this winter.

understandably just might go into hibernation this winter. Predicted to be a season of cold and stormy

Gerald Artz, president and CEO of M&R Heating, Cooling, & Refrigeration, offers several ways to save on the dreaded heating

weather (according to the 2012 Farmers’

bill. “You have to service your furnace once a

Almanac), the Northeast can expect much

year to make sure it is efficient and clean. Oil

“heavier-than-normal” precipitation this

must be cleaned and checked too,” he said.

winter, meaning more snow days and, sigh, more shoveling. Of course with heavy snowfall and colder

8 Milford Living • Winter

Artz, who has worked at M&R since he was thirteen, says it is crucial never to run your oil tank less than a quarter full in order

the only place still using oil. No one else uses it anymore.” Mike Matarese, service and installation manager of Petro Fuel, says there are several other things a homeowner can do to keep their home heating in tip-top condition during the winter. “You have to make sure that the ducts are clean and are not restricted in anyway,” he said. “If you have carpet, there should be a minimum of three-quarters of an inch of space from the bottom of the radiator for proper air ventilation.” Matarese also suggests vacuuming radiators frequently to ensure clean air. Or, take the advice of former President Jimmy Carter, who suggested perhaps the easiest way to combat a chilly house: put on a sweater.

Here are a furnace full of additional tips for increasing the efficiency of your home this winter: • Seal and weather strip windows and

• If you go on vacation, set the heat to

doors to reduce drafts

at least 55 degrees in order to prevent

• Add insulation to attics, floors, and

pipes from freezing

crawl spaces

• Utilize the sun’s natural heat and light

• Install fresh batteries in all smoke

by opening curtains and blinds on

alarms

• Replace fire extinguishers that are older

south-facing windows during the day and closing all shades at night

than ten years

• Cap or screen the top of the chimney to

bleed the valves by opening them

• Turn down the temperature on water

them

• Use the fireplace cautiously by keeping

heat pumps

• Caulk the fireplace hearth, install

• If a hot water radiator heats your home, slightly; when the water appears, close

keep out rodents and birds

heaters to between 115-120 degrees

• Install efficient windows, furnaces, and

the damper closed unless a fire is going

• Put insulating wrap around hot water

tempered doors, and lower your

heaters and hot water pipes

thermostat to 55 degrees when a fire is lit

—Makayla Silva

Hey Mother Nature!

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green life

Recycling the Recycle Bin N

OW THAT WE HAVE ALL GROWN comfortable with our big

green single-stream recycle bins, many of us are left to

question, “What do I do with my little blue recycling bin?” The answer may seem pretty obvious—recycle it! Like most plastic containers, the little blue bin (LBB) does have a recycling triangle on the bottom. If you put the bin out on your designated recycling day, sanitation workers will pick it up. Recycling is wonderful, but reusing and repurposing are just as great if it can save you from buying something new in the future. For those of who still

Re-Nature For the LBB that’s been badly banged up, try taking out your frustration on it by breaking it up into as many smaller pieces as you can; this is a great activity for older kids. Once broken up, the smaller plastic pieces can be used as filler for potted plants to allow the soil to drain. The LBB can make a great contribution to your backyard as well. With the purchase of a water feature kit you can dig a hole and use it as a liner for a small water feature. You could also paint the bin and use it as a planter or container garden. Or, you can use it to start a compost

have your LBBs hanging around the house “just in

bin. (Check out a great example on About.com at

case” you can use them for something, here are a

http://organicgardening.about.com/od/compost/ht/

few ideas to turn your LBB from refuse to reuse.

storagecompost.htm). The project takes only 15–30 minutes and will help you yield

Involve the Kids Anyone with small children can probably find a dozen uses for a bin once it is cleaned and maybe even decorated—from toy storage to

rich, organic compost to add to your yard or garden soil. Similarly beneficial to your spring soil would be creating a worm bin, such as the one shown at www.itsawormslife.com

a place to practice indoor

(http://itsawormslife.com/

ball tossing. You can use

Buildyourownbin.aspx).

the bin to teach your

Lastly, if you have an old

children about the joy

bicycle (or anything with

of giving. Start by

wheels) lying around, you

decorating the bin

can repurpose the wheels by

with them, labeling

attaching them to the bin and

it Donations, and

make a cart or wheelbarrow to

placing it in their

haul your yard debris.

room or nursery for monthly contributions of outgrown toys or clothing

Clean Kitty For cat lovers, the LBB

items. Explain how the

can be used to provide a

things that they no longer

solution to messy kitty

use will have a new home

litter around the litter box

with kids who will love them

by using the bin either as a

just as much as they did. This

litter box (with a liner) or

will help to reduce the clutter in

as a cover to an existing,

your home as well.

10 Milford Living • Winter

shallow litter box (just

turn it over and cut a hole in the top for your

recyclables. Alternately, you can

cat to jump into). When the cat jumps out, the

use the bins inside your home or

litter will stay in the box. More details for

office to sort out any plastics or

this project can be found at Lifehacker.com

metals that are not acceptable in the

(http://lifehacker.com/5433450/repurpose-astorage-bin-as-a-mess+free-litter-box).

single-stream bins; remember to put the bins out for Milford “free” days just before the scheduled bulk trash pickup in your

Re-recycle Finally, you can keep using the LBB

neighborhood. However you choose to go

for recyclables. After giving the bin a

green with your blue bin,

good cleaning, line the bottom with a

remember to think outside the

plastic garbage bag and use it to separate

bin and have fun! —McKenzie Granata

your redeemable bottles and cans. Some residents “donate” their bottles and cans to “can collectors” by leaving them on the curb the night before their designated recycling

Do you have any clever uses for the LBB not mentioned in this article? We’d love to hear

day. Any leftover bottles or cans will be picked

about it at www.MilfordLiving.com or Milford

up by sanitation workers with the rest of the

Living on Facebook.

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2012 • Milford Living 11

All the World is a Stage T

HE LONG-TIME BRIDGEPORT STEEL BUILD-

had seen better days—flaking

ShowMotion built the animated pirate ship

ShowMotion built the architectural

in their lagoon. Take in a game at Tiger

features. Ever watched The Hard Way

paint, failing roof, overgrown grounds, and

Stadium in Detroit? ShowMotion built the

starring Michael J. Fox and James Woods?

hundreds of broken windows. Who would

huge tigers that grace the exterior. Enjoy

ShowMotion built the animated billboard

have guessed it would be revitalized to create

a meal at an Emeril Lagasse restaurant?

in the climactic scene. Take in a Broadway

ING

magic? ShowMotion purchased

show? Odds are you have seen

the old Bridgeport Steel factory

ShowMotion’s work.

COURTESY OF SHOWMOTION (2)

milford spotlight

and gave it new life and purpose,

Founded in 1994 by William

creating remarkable sets destined

Mensching, ShowMotion special-

for the Great White Way. Along

izes in creating unique, automated,

with stages that have been graced

and mechanical sets for theaters,

by Tony Award winners, ShowMo-

movie productions, and large scale

tion also creates their magic for

installations for casinos, restau-

restaurants, Fortune 500 compa-

rants, museums, and theme parks.

nies, and major league ball parks.

If you can dream it up, ShowMo-

Have you been to Mohegan

tion can make it a reality.

Sun? ShowMotion built

Bill Mensching comes from a

architectural pieces for their

long line of show business folk.

recent expansion. Ever go to Las

(Above) Creating the iconic tigers for Tiger Stadium in Detroit; (Top)

His great grandfather worked

Vegas and visit Treasure Island?

the Broadway hit Hairspray featuring ShowMotion sets.

in vaudeville. His business was

12 Milford Living • Winter

transporting scenery from theater to theater with a horse and wagon. His grandfather managed set construction for CBS as its master carpenter. His father was the production manager for Radio City Music Hall. “I SUSAN CARROLL DWYER

grew up with it, and I enjoy what I do,” said Mensching. “There is always a new and interesting project to develop and construct.” When Mensching first noticed the defunct Bridgeport Steel plant, “I had driven by the building while visiting a friend at Milford

The expansive shop has everything in place to create magic.

Hospital,” he explained. “It seemed like a perfect fit for us. We have done extensive

to transport the sets we create. We also had

work to the building to bring it back; a new

to completely upgrade the electrical system.

ibly organized. There are tradesmen

roof, all new windows, and a state-of-the-art

Aside from the mechanicals, we wanted the

everywhere working on different aspects

heating system. There was a railroad spur we

building to retain the feel of the 1950s. I think

of various projects. Welding sparks in one

converted to accommodate the trucks used

we’ve accomplished that.”

area, carpenters cutting wood, electricians

The space is bright, warm, and incred-

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milford spotlight

running wires, and artists painting in other places—it is a unique operation to say the least. “Dependent on work flow, there are 45-75 people working on projects,” said Mensching. Carpenters, welders, electricians, machinists, drafters, and artists work in concert to create an illusion of a place far, far away or maybe even Young Frankenstein’s castle. “Sets can be built within four

The old Bridgeport Steel building was a “perfect fit” for a creative shop requiring lots of space.

to six weeks, depending on their complexity,” explains Mensching. “We have a great

designed the set for the new Broadway pro-

“One of the things we like the best about

team. All skilled at their craft, they work in

duction (ital)Road to Mecca. “It’s a luxury to

our new facility is being part of a community.

concert to complete each project.”

have someone local as the designer,” said

Before we were in an industrial area, now

Mensching. “Michael has been able to stop

we can take a walk to get lunch. Milford has

has a local connection. Michael Yeargan, a

in to go over design and construction as it

been very welcoming.”

Milford resident and Tony Award winner,

progresses.”

A recent project ShowMotion worked on

Enjoy pain-free living! Orthopaedic Specialists, Podiatrists, Physical Therapists and a Physiatrist, all working together to eliminate your pain! We are located near Milford Hospital at:

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Other locations: Orange, New Haven, Hamden, Branford, Guilford, Wallingford MRI Centers: Hamden, Branford • Surgical Center: Branford

14 Milford Living • Winter

—Susan Carroll-Dwyer

2012 â&#x20AC;˘ Milford Living 15

Milford Hospital-ity T

HIS FALL, THE MILFORD HOSPITAL AUXILIARY

is celebrating ninety years

of dedication and service to the needs and welfare of the

Milford Hospital. The Women’s Hospital Auxiliary of Milford was organized in

The Milford Hospital Auxiliary has been serving the community for more than 90 years.

The reorganized group focused on raising funds for hospital needs, relating the hospital to the public, and providing trained volunteers to hospital services. By 1953, the Auxiliary had donated enough money for the hospital to purchase the newest sterilizing machinery, an

December 1920 with the initial task of providing linens and other

anesthesia machine, and a number of furnishings for various rooms

materials to the newly founded hospital. Approximately 100 women

in the hospital.

enrolled, and within the first year they provided the hospital with

Since 1951, the Auxiliary has continued to grow and adapt to the

“over 800 pieces of bed linen, curtains, bed jackets, operating room

needs of the hospital, developing new programs and traditions to

gowns and caps, and hot water bottle covers.” During the first year

both promote and support the hospital. Many fundraising events,

they also organized four “Donation Days” on which they donated a

including the annual Celebration of Trees, fashion shows, theater

large number of groceries to the growing hospital.

evenings, and auctions have evolved into cherished Milford staples

In its earliest years, the Auxiliary was predominantly a sewing

as more and more Milfordites have become involved. “We couldn’t

circle that did all of the hospital’s mending, led by Mrs. Leslie B. Davis.

do these things without the support and contribution from local

It was not until April 17, 1951 that the Women’s Hospital Auxiliary

merchants and companies. The personnel in all departments of the

of Milford was reorganized under the leadership of Sally Barny.

hospital participate and support as well,” said Susan D’Ambrosio, who

16 Milford Living • Winter

MARY HEGERTY NESCHKE

at your service

sits on the Board of Directors. In addition to the various fundraising events, the Auxiliary runs

Membership is open to all adults who are interested in supporting the hospital. All members pay annual dues of $15, $25, $50, or have the

the hospital’s Enchanted Gift Shop. Auxiliary members Meg Edwards

option of donating $100 for a lifetime membership. Members range

and Lois Smith oversee the operation of the shop, which is located in

from those who choose to donate to the hospital via their dues, to

the main lobby of the hospital. The Auxiliary also runs the Milford

those who dedicate a significant portion of their lives to promoting

Hospital Memorial Fund, which allows donations to be made to the

the welfare of Milford Hospital. Many Auxiliary members go so far as

hospital in the honor and memory of loved ones.

to volunteer separately at the hospital, providing aid and services to

The money that the Auxiliary donates is used to purchase new equipment and supplies, as well as for patient care. “We spent three

the hospital staff directly. This past June, thanks to the generosity and efforts of members,

years raising money for a brand new mammogram machine. Ours

local merchants, businesses, and hospital personnel, the Milford

was the first hospital in the state to have it,” recalls D’Ambrosio. In

Hospital Auxiliary was able to donate $78,500.70 to the hospital. In

conjunction with Milford Literacy Volunteers, the Auxiliary provides

addition, junior volunteers Katelyn Wong, Steven Krozer, and Eric

all newborns and toddlers with a book. Other services range from

Auscavitch were awarded $1,500, $1,000, and $900, respectively,

providing each child that visits the emergency room with a teddy

thanks to the annual scholarships program.

bear and a book, to providing coronary patients with scales to monitor their weight upon release. To date, the Auxiliary boasts approximately 380 members.

—Margeaux Settinari For any additional information on the Milford Hospital Auxiliary, please visit: www.milfordhospital.org/volunteering/auxiliary.

2012 • Milford Living 17

family time

Camping in the Great Indoors A

H CAMPING. THE SCENTS, THE SOUNDS,

the

sleeping underneath the…living room

ceiling? Whether you love to take the family camping, or have never camped a day in your

pretend it’s not. Pack a bag with all the necessities to make this camping trip fun and entertaining: flashlights, a radio, a deck of cards, pillows, blankets and, of course, your favorite stuffed animal.

life, there is no reason to let the cold winds

Depending on the size of your room, an

of winter cramp your camping style. Have

outdoor camping tent might not fit. Not a

no fear—indoor camping is here, a great

problem! Sheets and blankets can be clipped

alternative to traditional camping when

and propped open over furniture for a

the cold, snowy months of winter are upon

makeshift tent. And though you are inside

us. Indoor camping is a great way to make a

and have technology at the ready, refrain

night special for the whole family. Just think

from using it as much as possible. Turn out

about a warm cozy tent on a snowy evening,

the lights and unplug the TV. Flashlights can

sharing ghost stories, games, and snacks with

be used instead of lighting, radio instead

your family and friends.

of television, and board games and cards

Even though your campsite may only

instead of video games. Try and make this

be one room over from the family kitchen,

camping experience as natural as possible.

18 Milford Living • Winter

There are lots of creative ways to embrace

them across

the outdoor camping atmosphere and bring

the floor. Or

it indoors. Capture the smell of the outdoors

how about

by lighting a pine-scented candle or using

cutting out paper

air freshener. To enjoy the sounds of nature,

stars and hanging

there are many websites that provide free

them from the ceiling?

listening of all sorts of sceneries, from calm

matter which

Snacks are another crucial

method you use, you’ll

streams and chirping birds to thunderstorms

component to camping. One famous

and rustling trees.

snack that comes to many campers’ minds

Try to “set your camp” in a scenic outdoor

is s’mores. Fireplaces and gas ranges can be

still get the same warm, gooey, delicious taste as you would outside. Now that you know all the essentials

area. Get creative and let your imagination

substituted for bonfires and work just as

to a successful indoor camping trip, start

run wild! Take any indoor plants or artificial

well. If neither of these is available to you,

planning. Prepare to tell your scariest ghost

flowers you have lying around the house and

try the microwave or stove. In these two

stories, make the tastiest s’mores, and have a

place them on and around your campsite. Or

cases just assemble the s’mores on a plate

great time camping with your family in the

draw, cut, and color your own leaves out of

or tray before you place it inside the oven,

great indoors.

paper then tape them to your tent and scatter

otherwise things will get very messy. No

—Ashley Volkens

A healthy SMILE is always in style

Wishing you a Happy Holiday season & a Happy New Year!

COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY Mitchell I. Quinter . Kristin Helms . Karey Rainey-Maxwell . Alex Quinter . Michael Wiener . DMDs

55 Old Gate Lane, Milford, CT 06460 . 203-878-6699 . SensitiveCare.net 2012 • Milford Living 19

education notebook

Common Core State Standards

currently taught in math from grades three up. “Under CCSS, ratios will be taught in sixth grade and probability will not be seen until seventh,” he said. Additionally, the current trend of spiral curriculum, where students are taught basic skills repeatedly, building

ILFORD IS ONE OF 169 SCHOOL DISTRICTS

explains that in some cases, content and

upon the difficulty in each grade, will be

across the state faced with the

skills traditionally taught in one grade

gone. Instead, students will be taught a

herculean task of compliance with the

may move to a different grade. He cites as

concept in a certain grade and will not see it

Common Core State Standards, an initiative

examples ratios and probability, which are

again, except in its different applications, as

passed by the National Governor’s Association and, as of November 2011, adopted by forty-four states and three territories, Connecticut included. Not to be confused with No Child Left Behind, the mission of the Common Core State Standards, or CCSS, is to “provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn, so teachers and parents know what they need to do to help them.” Further, the standards are designed to reflect “the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers,” so they will be prepared to compete in a global workforce. The idea behind the CCSS, which applies to language arts and math, is a sound one: provide a uniform set of education standards and benchmarks nationwide so that everyone will be on the same page. The desired result: more seamless transitions for students moving from one state or school district to another, leading to increased student achievement. While the CCSS provides grade level concepts for student learning, local school systems and educators will still control how the standards are met, tailoring instruction to the individual needs of students. Full implementation is expected by the end of the 2013-14 school year. But what will these common standards really look like to students and families in Milford? Assistant superintendent of teaching and learning Michael Cummings

20 Milford Living • Winter

they move through school. “There will be less

school districts would like to see the state’s

that one half of those children did not begin

content, with more time spent on it, in each

Department of Education step up its level

kindergarten in our school system. “There

grade. The work coming home with students

of guidance. “The prioritizing of standards

is so much movement in society now,”

will look different than what parents are

from the state has been slow,” he said, but he

said Cummings. “A national expectation

used to,” he added.

looks forward to the pooling of resources and

for learning makes sense and will level the

collaboration with neighboring districts.

playing field for students.” Superintendent

While the review of Milford’s school curriculum is always ongoing, one obvious

While Connecticut has always had high

Elizabeth Feser agrees. “The CCSS will give

effect of the CCSS will be the need to evaluate

expectations for students, and while Milford’s

teachers and students greater clarity of the

the textbooks students are currently using,

graduation requirements exceed those of

expectations from year to year and of the

and may lead to the use of more flexible

state law, Cummings concedes the time for

final outcomes for each grade.”

online resources. There will also be a lot

a national standard has come. Several years

of professional development in store for

ago he did an informal study of the eighth

teachers. From Cummings’ viewpoint,

grade class at one middle school and found

“And,” added Cummings, “a national test is coming.” —Susan Glennon

For more information on the Common Core State Standards visit: Official Common Core State Standards Initiative website: www.corestandards.org; Common Core State Standards in Connecticut: www.sde.ct.gov/sde/cwp/view.asp?a=2618&q=322592

Alan J Berkson, DDS Periodontics and Dental Implants

COME ENJOY THE GREAT INDOORS AT MILFORD INDOOR TENNIS WARM-UP TO INDOOR TENNIS IN ANY WEATHER!

DENTAL IMPLANTS Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a stable solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone. As a periodontist with more than 30 years experience and placing implants for 20 years, my concern is for a healthy mouth that along with new technology [digital x-rays and CAT Scan planning] and working with other dental team members can provide the crowns, bridges and other appliances that add significantly to the quality of life.

Contact us! We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office at 203-877-5106.

We are located at 431 New Haven Avenue, Milford, CT

• Adult & Junior Group Lessons • Private Lessons • Seasonal Courts • Open Courts • Drop-in Clinics • USTA & Jr Team Tennis 580 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford

(203) 876-1776 www.milfordindoortennis.com

2012 • Milford Living 21

Meeting the Mark A

MOST UNIQUE PLACE IN HARTFORD, the

home of Mark Twain draws

visitors from all over the globe. The author and humorist of

the late 1800s and early 1900s would certainly be amused by the

Sam and Livy Clemens sport around Hartford with friends.

improved, he attended private school, and in his teen years went to work with his brother at a local newspaper and was employed as a printer and editorial assistant. Clemens left the newspaper at the

world as we know it today.

age of seventeen to become a

“Fame is a vapor; popularity

riverboat pilot’s apprentice. He

an accident; the only earthly

became a licensed pilot himself

certainty is oblivion,” Twain

in 1858.

wrote in his notebook. Ironic

Clemens’ first pen name was

considering that his home

Thomas Jefferson Snodgrass…

is one of the most visited

not too catchy. As he pursued

destinations in Connecticut

his writing career, he assumed

more than one hundred

the name Mark Twain, a term of

years after his death.

measure used on the river (two

Known to most by his nom

fathoms or twelve feet), mean-

de plume Mark Twain, Samuel

ing the stretch of river was safe

Langhorne Clemens was born

to navigate. His breakthrough

in Missouri in 1835 as Hailey’s

Clemens once referred to his Gothic-style mansion as a “combination

work, The Celebrated Jumping

Comet sped past Earth (his

Mississippi River steamboat and cuckoo clock.”

Frog of Calaveras County gar-

death in 1910 occurred the day

nered him national attention.

the comet returned). As a boy, Clemens suffered poor health and

Writing and speaking engagements followed, and Clemens traveled

was kept close to home until he was nine years old. As his health

the world lecturing with his unique take on society.

22 Milford Living • Winter

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARK TWAIN HOUSE AND MUSEUM

sunday drive

Clemens and his wife Olivia (Livy) decided to

Connecticut gem,” noting that “Visitors to the

build their home in Hartford. Construction began in

museum will experience the life and times of

1873 in accordance to Livy’s sketches and was com-

one of America’s most influential authors and

pleted in 1874. The unique Gothic architecture led

a true Connecticut icon.” Guests at the Twain

the celebrated author to refer to it as “...combination

house get a peek back in time through the eyes

Mississippi River steamboat and cuckoo clock.”

of an American icon. “My favorite room in the

The twenty-five room home has a grand hall

house is Sam’s billiards room,” said Nichols.

decorated with Victorian pieces designed by

“It was in this room that he played his favorite

Tiffany. A glass conservatory was filled with flora

game, entertained his friends, and wrote some of

all year round. The historic billiard room is where

the most important and influential literature in

Twain wrote some of his best known works: The

American history. It is one of the great historic

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Adventures

rooms in the United States.”

of Tom Sawyer, The Prince and the Pauper, and of

The Mark Twain Museum Center, which opened

course, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.

in 2003, has a permanent exhibit of Twain’s life

Jeffrey Nichols, executive director of the

and work. It is a state-of-the-art museum with

Mark Twain House & Museum, calls the site “a

a rotating exhibit hall, a theater, shop, and café.

•

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sunday drive

A truly green facility, it also houses a library (by appointment only) for researchers to explore all things Twain. According to Nichols, winter is a special time at the Mark Twain House since it was the winter home for the author and his wife and daughters (who spent summers in upstate New York). “There’s something about the warmth and comfort of the library, with the fire in the hearth and the tropical plants in the conservatory silhouetted against the snow that relays why the family loved this home so much,” said Nichols. The Mark Twain House and Museum are open for tours Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from 12:00 to 5:30 p.m. The last tour leaves one hour before closing. The facilities are closed on Tuesdays from January to March, and on major A favorite room in the house, the billiard room was where Sam

holidays. For more information on visiting, programs, and exhibits

entertained friends and wrote some of his most famous works.

visit www.marktwainhouse.org —Susan Carroll-Dwyer

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916 Bridgeport Avenue • 203-878-5735 24 Milford Living • Winter

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JANNINE Z. FALVEY, CIC Vice President

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              

  2012 • Milford Living 25

26 Milford Living â&#x20AC;˘ Winter Autumn

Greetings of theSeason T

By and large, historians agree that the first mass-produced Christmas card was the result of a time-

crunched, civic-minded English gentleman. It was 1843, and Sir Henry Cole didn’t have time to send handwritten greetings (as was the custom) to all his acquaintances, urging

them to be charitable and remember the poor. He commissioned artist John Horsley to create an illustration that featured

colorful, happy revellers flanked by somber images of the destitute in need. 1,000 copies were printed, and despite

early naysayers who called it “a fad,” the idea caught on. The

advent of the penny stamp around the same time did much to encourage the practice of mailing Christmas cards.

Photo Christmas cards began appearing at the turn of the 20th

century after Kodak introduced a bellows camera that printed postcards. For the most part, those early images of angelic

children and oddly shaped Christmas trees remain the central

subjects of the holiday photo cards we send and receive today,

more than a century later (although the trees have gotten a lot

better looking.) Even in these days of instant photos on phones and a Facebook full of family images, photo cards retain a

certain kind of charm. Truthfully, there’s an old fashioned constancy in being able to chart the growth of your cross country cousins year after year.

So while the “family photo” these days might include dogs,

cats, hamsters, vehicles, bad sweaters, Disney princesses,

Sponge Bob, or some other relevant cultural icon, the original

intent of the card remains unchanged: greeting to friends and family, thoughts of peace, and happy wishes for a new year filled with health, wealth, love, and laughter.

2012 • Milford Living 27

28 Milford Living â&#x20AC;˘ Winter Autumn

2012 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ Milford Living 29

30 Milford Living â&#x20AC;˘ Winter

Check out what’s new at www.milfordliving.com Looking for something interesting to do around town?

Our events calendar has something for everyone.

Sponsoring an event?

Submit it to our calendar.

What’s with the weather?

Check the local forecast, or watch the Doppler radar.

What’s happening around town? Local news feeds keep you up to date on the day to day stories that effect Milford.

How about a movie?

Check local movie listings – see what’s playing and when.

Attend a local event and want to share it with friends?

Submit your photos and share them with our readers.

Want to subscribe?

Click on the subscribe icon to get Milford Living delivered to your home.

Gift for a friend?

Send them a gift subscription! MILFORD LIVING WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU.

Have an idea for a story? Want to advertise your business? Have a where is it for us? Send us an email at info@milfordliving.com or call our office 203-283-5290.

34 Milford Living • Winter

Tranquility Wellness Spa M

(203) 877-7115 88 Nobel Avenue www.tranquilwellnessspa.com

Flip Salon& Boutique A

Salon Tip:

A glaze is an affordable way to try a new shade of haircolor or freshen your existing color.

(203) 713-8180 • 100g lansdale Ave. flipsalonboutique.com 2012 • Milford Living 35

Belle Home Housekeeping

ome home after a long day at work, to a tidy, clean, fresh house — courtesy of Belle Home Housecleaning. We’ve been serving the Milford community since 2005 with dependable, stress-free housecleaning services. Committed this year to spending more time with your family and friends, doing the things you most want to do with your precious free time? Enjoy a comfortable, clean, readyfor-company home– We’ll do the cleaning, you do the living!

Cleaning Tip:

To make an evaporating (the key to no streaks!) window cleaner, mix 1 part rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol with 1 part water in a clean, empty spray bottle. Voila! a home-made product that works as well as commercial brands for pennies on the dollar.

(203) 647-0383 33 Hawley Ave. bellehome.net

Advanced Placement

ooking for a new career or advancing in the one you already have? Contact us at Advanced Placement! We often have access to good quality jobs in a variety of fields that are not advertised publicly. Our recruiters will help prepare you for a job interview when a suitable position becomes available. New Year & you’ve just opened your new business – or you’ve grown over the last year and need some employees. Contact us at Advanced Placement!

“One step ahead in meeting your employment needs”

InterviewingTips:

Check out our website for interviewing tips & tips on submitting your resume via email for a job under the ‘Candidate’ tab. www.apinc.com

(203) 878-9392 203 Broad St # C-7 info@apinc.com 36 Milford Living • Winter

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38 Milford Living â&#x20AC;˘ Winter

ctsmiles.com

Happy New Year!

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The RED MAT Connection www.redmatmedia.com www.itagit.com www.whosyourcaddy.com 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ Milford Living 39

Broadway Comes to Milford to benefit the United Way…

One Voice. One Gift. A cabaret performed by

“Broadway Babes”

Lauralton Hall Auditorium 200 High Street Milford, CT

Sat. Jan. 21, 2012 6:30 pm

Join us for a night of entertainment as the Broadway

Starring “babes” from Broadway shows, including Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins, Chicago, Les Mis, Jekyll and Hyde, and more...

Babes showcase the work of the United Way of Miford in song. Doors open at 6:30 pm, Cabaret begins at 7. Tickets are $35 and include hors d’oeuvres and entertainment; cash bar available. Reserve your tickets or table by contacting the United Way of Milford at (203) 874-6791 by Jan. 16, 2012.

Kristin Huffman, Broadway singer and United Way volunteer.

Proceeds from this event beneﬁt the United Way and its partner agencies: American Red Cross, Beth-El Center, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Boy Scouts, Boys and Girls Club, Bridges, Catholic Charities, Domestic Violence Services, Girl Scouts, Good Shepherd Child Development Center, Inc., YMCA, Kennedy Center, Kids Count, Milford Senior Center, Milford’s Promise, New Haven Legal Association, Rape Crisis Center, Salvation Army, Visiting Nurse Association of South Central CT, Young Parent Program, United Way 211

Left: Founder Mary Ann Wasil Nilan and some of the Get In Touch Girls

T IN TOUCH Found ion at The GE ation www format ial, in .geti t n e ntou id f n o chfo ,c e f und sa atio u o y n.o r o rg/ f e r git he gir e r ls ea W

Ours is a global breast health initiative; we aim to put a Daisy Wheel® in the hands of every girl in the world! Join us as we “change the world one girl at a time!”

irls

Already being heralded in the medical community as a tool that will significantly alter the face of Breast Cancer, the Daisy Wheel® is now available to your school – at no cost!

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In collaboration with a medical consulting board that includes a school nurse, a pediatrician, an oncologist, a breast surgeon and a radiologist, GIT has developed the Daisy Wheel®. This highly innovative tool is introduced by health educators to girls beginning in 5th grade, when introducing topics of hygiene and the girls’ changing bodies, and is taught annually through 12th grade. These “8 Tips” for “8-Straight” years of the Girls’ Program will give the girls the foundation they need to practice BSE – for life.

you for re he re ea W

The program is the cornerstone mission of The Get In Touch Foundation® and was developed specifically for girls in grades 5-12 to educate them on the importance of, and how to do a breast self exam – for life!

r ea W

Get In Touch Girls’ Program Breast Health Initiative

at The GET IN TOUCH Foundation rmation www l, info a .geti i t n ntou ide chfo conf , e f und a s atio u o n.o y r rg/ fo e git er h gir e r ls a e W

If you are interested in having the Get In Touch Girls’ Program at your school, please contact us at girls@getintouchfoundation.org.

National “GIT Your Pink On!®” Day is the third Friday in October the get in touch foundation®

P.O. Box 2144 Milford, CT 06460 203.283.5127 e-mail: info@getintouchfoundation.org

milford morsels

Authentico J

UST AS WITH THE MUCH BELOVED PARMESAN CHEESE,

only the real thing

Evidence of this are promotions like the Dinner for Two Special

can be called Reggiano. It is the highest quality cheese of its

(Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays) when couples can feast on three

type, made with specific methods in a defined region of Italy to

course meals including a bottle of wine ($47.50). Prego! For those who

insure superiority and flavor. Similar attention to quality and

prefer to eat at the bar, the Happy Hour Special fits into any budget,

authenticity is emulated at the restaurant that shares the name—

featuring an individual pizza with the requisite beer included ($7.00).

Reggiano’s.

Reggiano’s also satisfies the mid-day diner with scrumptious lunch

Its modest strip mall location belies the charming interior, quickly dispelling any predispositions upon entering Reggiano’s. A bright copper-topped bar welcomes you into the warm, sizeable space, its

specials that include soup or salad ($11.95). Fine dining can also be family friendly at Reggiano’s. Pizza lovers can mangia favorites like the The Works ($19.00/large), loaded with

dark wood partitions and exposed brick columns create cozy dining nooks. A warm greeting, a glass of wine, and it is time to relax and enjoy an evening of fine dining. “Come here to forget about everything and feel at home,” explains proprietor Antonio Arcos. Together with general Serrano, the staff at Reggiano’s is devoted to pleasing their customers. “We are loyal to our customers and we want to take care of them,” Antonio exclaims.

42 Milford Living • Winter

REGGIANO’S

487 Bridgeport Avenue Milford, CT 06460 203-713-8300 Fax 203-713-8302 Sunday-Thursday 11:30-9:30 Friday & Saturday 11:30-10:00 www.reggianosct.com Take out, delivery, and catering available

BOB HARRINGTON (3)

manager Donato

pepperoni, meatball, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and extra cheese. There is nothing missing from this pie, so heavily laden with toppings that utensils are required. The Reggiano’s Special ($12.00/ large) showcases a zesty pesto sauce covered

enjoyment, with years of experience making diners happy. “This is not my job, this is my life,” Antonio explains. In the Italian tradition, Chef Higinio Cuaya provides generous portions of fresh

with chicken, red peppers, and artichoke

pasta prepared with age-old recipes; Italian

hearts, transforming each slice into a flavor

comfort food. Fresh pasta is made on the

delivery system.

premises, further testament to Reggiano’s

Formerly in Norwalk and Fairfield,

devotion to using only the finest ingredients.

Reggiano’s has found a new home in

Reams of ravioli, cavalcades of cavetelli, and

Milford, to the delight of residents and

numerous gnocchi are heaped into each

regulars. “If you have quality products

helping at prices so reasonable they are

and you love what you do, the customers

almost retro. Innovation is welcome too, with

will follow,” Antonio explains, pleased to

interesting spins on dishes using old-world

bring his brand of Italian home cooking

staples. One such dish is Chicken Martini and

to town. Put yourself in the very capable

Rossi ($17.00), a breast of chicken sautéed

and experienced hands dedicated to your

with garlic, artichokes hearts, and sundried

2012 • Milford Living 43

tomatoes, awash with a sparkling champagne reduction. The buttery goodness of toasted pine nuts completes the dish, a finishing touch thankfully not overlooked. The Moonstuck Salad ($8.00) is the perfect complement to any meal, with its baby field greens engulfed by copious amounts of blue cheese, walnuts, and cranberries. All the flavors of this superlative salad unite under the light touch of balsamic dressing, offset with a chili dusted crostini. Hearty homemade soups are made fresh daily such as the classic Pasta Fagioli or the nourishing Escarole and Bean Soup ($6.00), both flavorful take-out favorites. An abbondanza of freshly baked focaccia bread is recommended to soak up every last drop. Saving room for one of the Italian specialty desserts at Reggiano’s is imperative, especially with treats like Tiramisu—light and creamy with its layer of smooth

Gusto Restaurant

PRIVATE PARTIES

The Art of Italian Living Lunch ~ Dinner 255 Boston Post Road, Mlfd . 203-876-7464 . www.gustotrattoria.com 44 Milford Living • Winter

mascarpone settled on espresso and Kahlua soaked ladyfingers. Fresh whipped cream finishes this fantastic finale. Reggiano’s has a neighborhood feel to it, thanks in large part to the warm and friendly staff. They love what they do and that passion shines through in dish after delicious dish. “If we give you a high quality product, and we serve it to you with passion, you will come back,” Antonio explains. When his customers are happy, Antonio is happy. “To be happy, that is what I like,” he adds with a smile. In a face-paced world where quick meals on-thego are de rigueur, Reggiano’s is a welcome respite, BOB HARRINGTON (2)

a place to sit and enjoy a nice meal. Quality food in a pleasant setting with excellent service never goes out of style. —Kate Harrington

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2012 • Milford Living 45

money matters

Two Financial Rules to Live By

HERE IS A LOT OF GREAT ADVICE OUT THERE

about saving money. But if

the subject overwhelms you (as it does many people) start with just these two simple rules and you will be well on your way to financial independence.

Rule #1: Pay Yourself First It’s a time-tested, very common piece of basic financial advice. In theory, however, paying yourself first is simple enough to follow…but not always easy to do. You need to have immense discipline. For example, a savings of a mere $100 per month at a 6 percent compounded interest rate can be worth more than $100,000 in thirty years. For many, however, the question is, “How do I find that extra cash when I barely have any money left from paycheck to paycheck?” The answer: FORCE YOURSELF to take that money off the TOP of your paycheck. Yes, it may sting for a month or two, but like any regime (dieting and exercise) you

you right there. But go a step further: start

have found ways to cut other major expenses

will see results and start feeling better about

the plan and add more to it. That’s less money

(refinancing perhaps or something as basic as

what you are doing in creating positive

to be taxed and withheld from your paycheck,

coupon cutting) and there is something you

synergies to your bottom line.

which ultimately means more in your pocket.

have really wanted, needed, and can afford,

Play a game with your money and trick your

then go and buy it. You deserve it.

Paying yourself first works on two levels: it forces you to really budget to meet basic

mind into winning. Forced savings is “out of

expenses while keeping extra cash out of easy

sight, out of mind,”and out of your hands for

reach. For example, if you have a retirement

impulse buying.

saving plan at work, most definitely take

You will be surprised to see how fast your

Rule #2: Practice Mindful Spending When it comes to the way most people

advantage of that. Usually employers who

savings accounts, retirement accounts, and

think about money, there are typically two

have a 401K offer a match program whereby

other investment accounts will start adding

kinds of people: those who think $1,000 is

you receive a certain percentage without

up. Then reward yourself for good behavior. If

a lot of money and those who think $10 is

having to do anything. That is free money to

you happen to get a tax refund, a raise, and/or

a lot of money. Numerous studies over the

46 Milford Living • Winter

years on the behavior and psychology of

amount to anything. The truth is, these

these two types of people have indicated

seemingly insignificant purchases can easily

that it is the latter of the two that usually

amount to, or exceed, that $100 per month

situation, the beginning of a new year is the

comes out ahead…kind of like the tortoise

you may not have been able to save. Ever

perfect time to take stock, make plans, and

and the hare from Aesop’s fables.

heard of the latte factor? If you need that

maybe rethink the financial rules that you

morning latte, keep in mind that the extra

live by.

Having some leeway in your paycheck isn’t always a given, but many people have

jolt of morning Joe could be costing you

more wiggle room than they realize. When

more than $2,000 a year! Seemingly small

a decision is made to buy something, it is a

indulgences on a regular basis just become a

DECISION, not an IMPULSE buy. It is best to

larger cost in the long run.

spend money on things that really have value

So what are your rules? Are you a

comes up short at the end of each pay period? No matter what your current financial

—Greta Stifel Greta Stifel is a Registered Representative offering securities solely through Ameritas Investment Corp. (AIC). Member FINRA/

for you, not just things that are convenience

financial tortoise, with a “slow and steady”

SIPC. AIC is not affiliated with Cornerstone

or appealing at “the moment.”

understanding of the value of your money

Financial or Milford Living Magazine.

Less expensive purchases are an easy

and the knowledge that each purchase is

Additional products and services may be

mental hurdle to get over because they are

a decision? Or are you a financial hare, an

available through Greta Stifel or Cornerstone

so small—it seems that they could hardly

impulse buyer who can’t seem to save and

Financial that are not offered by AIC.

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senior corner

The Godfather of Walnut Beach improving the area around the foot

Bob Gregory, Milford Community Economic and Development Director, has been

of Naugatuck Avenue where he has lived

working with Garbus since starting his job

since 1986. The 70-year-old hairdresser,

in 1992, refers to him The Godfather

who still works at his business in Stratford,

of Walnut Beach. “For a volunteer

admits that the neighborhood has changed

who has his own business, he has

considerably over the years. “People

gotten a lot done,” said Gregory.

thought I was crazy to move here.”

“He’s weathered a lot of ups and

But today things are different in the Walnut Beach neighborhood. And many say it’s largely because of Garbus. “Everything was leaving. Now everything is

downs, but the results are there for all to see.” Garbus agreed the process has,

coming back,” said Richard Coda who helped

at times, been

Garbus found the Walnut Beach Association

difficult. “None

in 1994 and served as its first president, with

of this has been

Garbus as vice president. Today, the association

easy,” said

has grown to more than 100 members.

Garbus. Born in

Improvements and new business have

Pinsk, Russia

done much to change the face of Walnut

(now part of

Beach, including an ice cream parlor and

Belarus), Garbus

restaurant, the Burt Munro Fishing Pier, a

immigrated to

gateway arch and benches at the corner of

the U.S. in 1951 when he was

Naugatuck and East Broadway, sidewalks

ten years old, along with his mother,

from Naugatuck down Broadway to Laurel

father, brother, and sister. He lived

Beach (with the help of the Wildermere Beach

in Brooklyn and eventually attended

Association), conversion of a closed firehouse

hairdressing school, where he met

into an art gallery, the acquisition of the

his first wife by whom he had three

former Stowe Farm house into an artists’

children. They grew to like Milford

residence, and perhaps the crown jewel so

after visits to his wife’s aunt, and

far, a three-quarter mile boardwalk from

moved here in 1965, first living on the

Walnut Beach to Silver Sands State Park that

east side of town. Divorced six years

has attracted people from around the region.

later, Garbus remarried, had two more

“The area has been revitalized,” Coda said.

children, and later moved to his house

“It’s all because of Joe.”

48 Milford Living • Winter

on Park Street off Broadway.

MARY HEGARTY NESCHKE

OSEPH GARBUS HAS NEVER GROWN TIRED of

Garbus soon joined a group of residents

to renovate the Stowe Farm barn which I see

who would meet occasionally at the Costa

as a place for small concerts with parking at

Azzurra Restaurant to discuss how to improve

the old Simon Lake School next door,” he said. MARY HEGARTY NESCHKE

the neighborhood. The police presence was increased and blighted buildings like the old Emerald Room dance hall were torn down. With the official formation of the Walnut Beach Association, the group became a legitimate organization through which community development grants could be

(Left) Garbus holds a picture of himself arriv-

obtained.

ing in the U.S. in 1951 (Above) at Walnut Beach

Referring to himself as “just a person who

All of work by Garbus and hundreds of others has not gone unnoticed. “I feel people in Milford are aware of what’s going on down here,” he said. “The boardwalk is a big plus; people from out of town are using it. People know where we are,” he said. Another goal for the future is drawing more businesses into the area. “We got the restaurant and the ice cream shop. Instead of

wants to help,” Garbus served two terms

Enhancement Committee, which is charged

getting a Nantucket feel, say it’s like Walnut

as an alderman from the Third District and

with deciding the best way to allocate a $1

Beach. We’re getting there.”

currently serves as chairman of the Milford

million state grant for the area. “We still need

—Bill McDonald

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.

2012 • Milford Living 49

The Diary of John Downs M

ILFORD PATRIOT JOHN DOWNS was

weaver, a part-time school teacher,

hand. Downs wrote a line every day, always

Lieut Isaac Treats Lin[en] 8:0:0.” The three

SUSAN CARROLL-DWYER

historical perspective

documenting the weather, marking his

numbers at the end of the line indicate yards,

and a member of the colonial militia. His

attendance at church every Sunday, and his

els (1/4 yard) and nails (about 2 inches).

biggest claim to fame is that he kept a diary

activities in the town (which were many).

Some entries go beyond the mundane and are

for forty-seven years, from 1763 to 1810, recording daily weather observations and telling, in a very few

Downs’ diary was passed down through the generations and now resides at the library of the University of New

words (and in the random

Mexico at Albuquerque. (The

spelling and grammatical

inheritor moved to New

structure of the era),

Mexico and presented the

what he did that day.

diary to the University for

The diary provides a

safe-keeping. A microfilm

picture of life in Milford

copy is available at the

during and after the

Milford Public Library.)

American Revolution.

As a weaver, a typical

The diary is

entry for Downs would

contained in one book,

downright poignant. During September 1773, we find the following entries:

16 Clear & pleasant, I Spooled & warp & 17

Sized Got the Doctor

Clear & warm, I tended my Dear Son John with the Canker [scarlet fever]

18 Clear & pleasant, I help tend John & C

he very Sick

Clear & good weather. I at home my Son John Died

20 Clear & warm, I prepared and Buried my Son

include—after a brief

approximately 5 x 7 inches

description of the weather, of

in size, possibly written in

course—the quantity and kind

sections and sewed together

of cloth he wove that day and

with linen thread. The

for whom. The entry

Downs’ son John was only two years old when he died. (The letter “C” for the 19th is a dominical letter used in almanacs for Sundays. Downs used these throughout his diary.)

pages are carefully

A Dotty Kozlowski rendering of John Downs

for October 5, 1775 for

At times, Downs could be maddeningly

and neatly ruled and

as he may have looked during his days as a

instance, reads, “Rain

terse with his comments on the news of the

written in excellent

Milford “minuteman”.

most all Day, I wove

day. Three days after the fighting at Lexington

50 Milford Living • Winter

and Concord in April 1775—the “shot heard

were badly defeated. Downs wrote, “we quit

‘round the world”—his comment was, “a

our station & flee to New York.” But on the 16th

Sorrowful Alarm.” And, two days after,

of September, at the Battle of Harlem Heights,

only this: “News from Boston.” A few years

he writes, “I join our Reg.t [regiment] at the line

later, his comment on the British raid at

& a Smart fight, we beat them back.”

Pond Point on August 25, 1777 was again,

Downs was discharged from the army on

brief: “Cloudy & rain, I at the farm Alarm &

September 25 and returned to Milford on foot

Training at Town.”

and apparently alone; he does not mention

Downs frequently mentioned training

a companion. He walked six miles the first

with the local militia, and did eventually

The historic marker was placed this year by the

day. On the 26th he walked thirty-three

see action. On August 13, 1776 he and the

Milford Preservation Trust.

miles, almost to Norwalk, and reached home the following day and found all well. The

Milford men boarded Capt. Pond’s sloop for New York. Downs told of watching for the

days later, August 30, 1776, the Battle of Long

next day he went out “a-squirreling & got 3

enemy and being on fatigue duty. On August

Island (also known as the Battle of Brooklyn

squirrels & 1 pigeon.”

27 the unit went over to Long Island. Three

Heights) took place, at which the Americans

Was John Downs a minuteman? Technically

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historical perspective

no. A minuteman was a member of a special militia force who was paid and drilled at least once or twice a week. Minutemen were mostly associated with Massachusetts, although it DICK PLATT

appears that there was at least one similar unit in Norwich, Connecticut. There is no evidence that Downs was in such a unit. There were long periods, such as when he was

The twin Beehive ovens in the Downs home kitchen were used for all the household baking needs.

teaching school, when he did not go to drills. But, in the popular mind, a member of the

1777. However, in March of that year he

diary entries because of “the small pox which

colonial militia is called a “minuteman.”

journeyed to Salem, New York to be inoculated

was Heavy upon me.” Having contracted the

for small pox. As was often the case in the

disease and recovered, Downs was immune

diary of the 200 American soldiers suffering

early days of vaccinations, Downs developed

and he later told of going to New Haven to

from small pox who were cast onto the shores

a severe case of the disease and almost died.

tend sufferers there during an epidemic.

of Milford by the British on the first of January,

There is a ten day period when he made no

Strangely, Downs makes no mention in his

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In other military actions, Downs witnessed

the British raid on New Haven in 1779 and

North Milford or present-day Orange. Every

much of everyday life in Milford during this

then the burning of Fairfield a few days later.

day from then until March 27, the day’s entry

period. Downs frequently tells of farming,

The end of the Revolutionary War did

(except Sundays) includes, “I keep school.” As

killing hogs, haying, hoeing corn, and helping

provide cause for Downs to be more specific

this appears to have been a rather lengthy

his father-in-law, Samuel Stone, whom he

about the news. When word of Yorktown

commute, Downs tells of boarding with

refers to as “Father Stone.” Downs regularly

reached Milford, he wrote “rejoyce for Victory

different families every few days.

attended the Second, or Plymouth, Church

Cornwallis.” And then, with word of the Treaty

John Downs’ house still stands at 139 North

and usually tells who preached each Sunday.

of Paris in 1783 ending the war, he wrote on

Street, having been saved from “demolition

As was the Puritan custom, he did not

March 31st, “went to rejoice for peace.”

by neglect.” There is some uncertainty as to

observe Christmas. He would mention in his

when the house was built. The framing of

entry for December 25 that it was Christmas,

duties, Downs was a sometime school teacher.

the house is consistent with techniques in

but then tell of a normal work day.

Apparently, this duty was passed among

use about 1750, but Downs himself tells of

various people on a rotating schedule. For

dismantling his old house and building a new

provided a fascinating glimpse of everyday

instance, starting on February 4, 1784, “I begin

one on his property during the 1790s.

life in Milford more than 200 years ago.

In addition to his weaving and militia

School at Bryan Farm,” an area considered

Despite being a man of few words, Downs

—Dick Platt

For all its succinctness, the diary captures

Our faith is over 2000 years old.

Our thinking is not.

Woodmont United Church of Christ 1000 New Haven Avenue , Milford, CT 06460 203.878.3885 Sunday Worship at 10:30 am with Sunday school & Childcare Monday Seeker Service at 8:05 pm Wednesday Bible studies at 12:30 & 6:00 pm Check our website for Special Service times www.woodmontucc.org “There’s room for YOU around our table!”

2012 • Milford Living 53

expressions

Fowl Weather 54 Milford Living â&#x20AC;˘ Winter

Photographer: Zak DePiero Location: The Duck Pond The duck ponds in Milford are truly special. Nearly every kid in town has spent a bit of time feeding the fowl and giggling at their antics. The ponds offer a great opportunity for citizens to interact with nature, watching the ducks waddle, quack, and honk.

where is it? Answer to last issue’s quiz:

The creative “Monster” sits atop the Comfortable Environments building located on Seemans Lane.

Congratulations Maggie Faustini, Patti Deer, Traci A. Nabors, Eugenia, Alex & Andrew Frenzel, and Eric Seaberg. Winners can pick up their Milford Living t-shirt at the Milford Living office at 162 Bridgeport Avenue in Devon (look for the striped awning.) Call 203.283.5290

Want your very own Milford Living t-shirt? Send your answer to this issue’s SUSAN CARROLL-DWYER

Where is It? (along with your name) to: info@milfordliving.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@milfordliving.com.

Bring out your best smile

Philip A. Caporusso D.M.D. 874-5400 One Golden Hill Street, Milford Flexible Financial Plans Available

2012 • Milford Living 55

next issue • spring 2012

Historical Herb Gardens

Milford & the Civil War

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