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TABLE OF CONTENTS Features
Departments T
he U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) defines “volunteers” as “persons who did unpaid work (except for expenses) through or for an organization.” BLS keeps track of nationwide volunteer statistics, which have unfortunately reached an all-time low. Between September 2013 and September 2014, 25.3% of Americans volunteered at least once as compared to a 27% rate back in 2005. Bucking this trend, Connecticut currently ranks 18th in the nation among volunteers. In Milford, many of our friends, neighbors and co-workers are committed to a life of volunteerism. Why do they do what they do? What can we learn from their example? Below, local nonprofit leaders and their standout volunteers enlighten us.
encouraged to see clients “move from despair
BETH-EL CENTER
to volunteer. Their “generosity is often times
“Our volunteers are critical to the provision of
Wendy Dulin
Dulin feels “blessed” to spend her every Thurs-
and homelessness to self-sufficiency” as a result of the Center’s employment, education, training, housing, and counseling services. What’s kept her “coming back” since 2009, “is the outpouring of support the center receives.” Dulin cites “the countless people who come to our door with money they raised from a lemonade stand, an anonymous cash donation ‘just because’, handmade mittens and scarves to warm the homeless, youth groups purchasing arts and craft items,” and other acts of kindness as some of her reasons for continuing overwhelming,” she says. “It reassures me that
the services that the Beth-El Center provides,”
day manning Beth-El’s front desk, “answering
there are people who care, help, and support
says executive director Toni Dolan. “Their
phones, directing calls, preparing bank deposits,
those who are in need.”
unselfish dedication is inspiring.” Acknowl-
inputting the donor database, and preparing
edging that it takes a team effort to “change
many thank you letters and cards for the mon-
in a person’s life,” Dolan recognizes how one
etary and in-kind donations we receive.” She’s
Find out how to volunteer: bethelmilford.securesites.com/index.php
“simple act of kindness can go a long way towards easing the dally struggles of those seeking shelter, food, and support services.”
Milford Giving BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER
Fred Baldieri
Cooking, baking, and sautéing during Beth-El’s Friday lunch shift has been a constant for Badlieri. He arrives by 8:30 a.m., does the prep, and together with five or six other volunteers “serves a high-quality impressive restaurantstyle meal between 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. to an average of 50-75 people a day.” “People come in here with a real need,” says Baldieri. “They really appreciate it.” Although his ten years of cooking in Beth-El’s kitchen have shown him that “Milford is a very caring community,” he’s gained a deeper appreciation for what we may take for granted. “One never knows when one will be in that same position.”
28 Milford Living • Autumn
28
2015 • Milford Living 29
Milford Giving
By Cindy Papish Gerber
16
Milford Wildlife
58
4 6 8 12 16 18 20 24 36 40 44 48 52 56 58 62 70 71 72
Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters This Season At Your Service Milford Wildlife Milford Fit Legends and Lore Milford Spotlight Arts and Artisans Milford Morsels Family Time Education Notebook At Home Senior Corner Election Connection Historical Perspective Expressions congratulations Where is it
Election Connection
About the cover: An autumn view of the lower duckpond greets visitors on River Street. Back Cover: The upper duckpond at peak season. Cover photos by Cathy Leite. Her photography may be experienced at: www.cathyleitephotography.com
2015 • Milford Living 1
Anytime. Anywhere. Any day...
AUTUMN 2015 VOLUME 12 • ISSUE 3 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill Suzanne@milfordliving.com
Editorial Director
Carlson Insurance Agcy Inc Wanda Carlson, Agent 465a Bridgeport Avenue wanda@wandacarlson.com Bus: 203-877-9203
Ann McGuire Ann@milfordliving.com
That’s when you can count on State Farm . I know life doesn’t come with a schedule. That’s why at State Farm you can always count on me for whatever you need – 24/7, 365. GET TO A BETTER STATE™. CALL ME TODAY.
Art Director
®
Ryan Swanson
Associate Publisher
Susan Carroll-Dwyer scarrolldwyer@milfordliving.com
Advertising Director Joy Haines
Account Executive David Frankel, Lisa Turner
Contributing Photographers
Sherry Johnson, Cathy Leite, JJ Richards, Christine Rose, Louis Spero
Contributing Editors
Jessica Avitabile, McKenzie Granata 1101198.1
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL
Contributing Writers
Angela Petrowski Arpino, Jessica Avitable, Cynthia Wolf Boynton, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Cindy Papish Gerber, Susan Glennon, Nancy Herman, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Jane & Richard Platt, Christine Rose, Hayley Sanchez, Makayla Silva, MacKenzie Stuart, Lisa Turner
Production Manager Mario Recupido
Production Assistance
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What we write gets read.
Milford Living Magazine 162 Bridgeport Avenue Milford CT 06460 203-283-5290 http://www.milfordliving.com
Milford Living Magazine (ISSN 1547-4429) is distributed quarterly by Red Mat Publishing. 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. $23.80. Newsstand: $5.95. 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 2003-2015 Red Mat Publishing.www.redmatpublishing.com 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. www.redmatpublishing.com
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2 Milford Living • Autumn
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IMAGINE FEELING BETTER JUST ENTERING A HOSPITAL.
At Bridgeport Hospital, you can see the promise of a new day in health care. You can see it in completely redesigned facilities like our burn center and an emergency department that is now one of the most advanced anywhere. It all points to the fact that Bridgeport Hospital is part of a healthcare system at the forefront of advancing medical research and treatment – Yale New Haven Health. We welcome the opportunities this day brings. Opportunities to do more for you. So you can do more with your life.
WELCOME TO THE NEW BRIDGEPORT HOSPITAL. bridgeporthospital.org
2015 • Milford Living 3
publisher’s letter Dear Friends & Neighbors,
Summer’s warmth has waned and the crisp air now greets us each
morning. The daylight diminishes early as time falls back again. And as our days grow shorter, we appreciate the long and beautiful sunsets that only the most colorful of seasons could paint for us. As squirrels scramble for nuts to harvest, we too find ourselves running here and there, preparing for the colder months while simultaneously taking care of every busy day. We know it’s time to adorn our porches with cornstalks, mums, and pumpkins; time to tailgate at a football game, build scarecrows, and ring doorbells on mischief night. Do yourself a favor: take a joy ride around town and become a leaf peeper. Bake that pumpkin pie made from a fresh sugar pumpkin from one of our local farms—no canned pie this year! Peel open a pomegranate and share its jewel-like seeds with someone you love. The harvest has passed and very soon it will be the traditional time for giving thanks for our bounty; remember that we are blessed to live in a community where so many give of their time, talents, and treasures to those who need it most. We hope this issue’s feature spotlighting a few of Milford’s finest community helpers will inspire others to lend a hand to some of our local non-profit organizations. As always, it’s a pleasure to hear from our readers. We receive so many great ideas for articles from you, so please feel free to drop us a line and share your thoughts. We hope you enjoy this issue and share it with those you love and those that love Milford.
Center StretCh
Wishing you all the colors of the season!
is simple - It’s just stretching.
Center Rehab is Milford’s premier physical therapy practice.
We are pleased to offer a new and unique wellness program called Center Stretch. It’s a safe and easy way to feel more flexible. You tell us what’s feeling tight and your physical therapist will do the rest. Physical Therapists are the best medical professionals when it comes to stretching. That’s especially true if you have something more complicated in your history such as an old surgery or injury.
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www.CenterRehab.com 4 Milford Living • Autumn
Suzanne P.S. Share the gift of Milford Living with others, send a gift subscription for the holiday. Look for your enclosed gift subscription card inside this issue. Your gift subscription will be processed in time for the holiday season. You can also subscribe online at http://milfordliving.com/ subscribe
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readers’ letters I am a fisherman and really liked the summer issue. How about something about ice fishing or winter angling? I’ll submit some images. —John Swan Thanks John! That is a great idea; we’ll see what we can do. Readers like yourself make our job easier! Could you do an article about the Senior Center in Milford? —Eda Trembicki, Milford, CT The Milford Senior Center is a bustling hub of activity, support, and camaraderie available
to all seniors within our community. We do try our best to tie in activities, events, and happenings at the Senior Center whenever we can. That being said, our last full feature on the center was many years ago so it’s time for an update. Look for your article request to be fulfilled in an upcoming issue.
Maybe you can do an article sometime about the British soldiers arriving at Fort Trumbull and the care of them and the caves! —Mary Ann Griffin We like this idea! We will dig into that story and look to piece together an article for a future issue.
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 our publisher at: suzanne@milfordliving.com
MILFORD and NEW HAVEN www.metrostarproperties.com 203-878-2193 Metro Star represents a unique style of apartment home living. We offer boutique, finely appointed communities designed for a convenient and stress free lifestyle. From leisurely waterfront in Milford, CT to executive corporate in downtown New Haven, our apartments provide the essence of quality luxury apartment living. Combining masterful modern apartment designs with specifically chosen locations that compliment an active lifestyle, Metro Star Apartments are extraordinary in every way. Studio, one and two bedroom options available. 6 Milford Living • Autumn
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this season
N
ative to North and South America, corn has been part of people’s lives since humans began foraging for sustenance, although it did not quite look the same as it does today. The cultivation of corn began around 7,000 years ago. Seven millennia later Zea mays (maize or corn) has been crafted by gifted gardeners into the principal crop grown in the U.S. and an essential part of nourishment around the globe. Hearty and versatile, this remarkable plant offers far more than what meets the…ear.
TRAKTORENANDBUCH
Lovelorn for Corn most cooks—used as a thickening agent for gravy and sauces. It’s also an ingredient for confectioner’s sugar, helping to create sweet treats. Corn syrup is also made from starch. Sweeter than sugar, its uses are endless, Starting with the basics, an ear of corn is
the early 1940s, scientists discovered it to be a
though these days it is losing favor due to
easy to prepare, easy to eat, and tough to
perfect medium for large scale production of
its propensity to create love handles. Most
remove from between your teeth. Simple, fill-
penicillin. Prior to this discovery the antibi-
unusual is its use as a main ingredient for
ing, and fun to eat, it’s a staple of any picnic.
otic could only be produced in small batches.
biodegradable plastics.
Ground corn varies in its use as to how
This breakthrough initiated an era of simple,
finely it’s milled. Coarsely ground, it makes
effective treatments for often fatal infections.
breakfast better as it takes the form of
Corn starch is extracted from what is called
Industrial uses of the crop offer a replacement of fossil fuels in the form of Ethanol. Most gas available these days is around 10%
cornflakes or grits served with butter and
the endosperm, part of the seed responsible
Ethanol. While it does make your car go, it
pepper. The next step down in size is corn-
for the nourishment of future plantings.
requires about the same amount of energy to
meal, yummy when baked into muffins like
Gluten separated out of the endosperm
produce as what it has to offer. The amount
mom used to make. The finest milled is corn
leaves only a simple carbohydrate—another
of corn required to produce an abundance of
flour for tortillas and tamales…OLE!
versatile component which is familiar to
the fuel would also make a substantial dent
Once an expendable byproduct of the process to separate the different parts of corn, steep liquor has proven to be invaluable. In
8 Milford Living • Autumn
in the food supply. Need an industrial glue? Yep…corn germ byproducts provide a key component for
high-strength adhesives. As a
qualities, growers and distillers
supplement to resins, corn germ
also found barrels of whiskey
makes super glue more affordable.
were easier to transport than crops,
Corn oil, yet another wonder of
and far more profitable. As the
corn, is best known as a cooking
government realized its potential,
ingredient. But the oil is also used as
taxes were levied during the Civil
an ingredient in soap, makeup, and
War. Bourbons such as Wild Turkey,
medicine.
Makers Mark, and Old Grand Dad ULTURE
Corn cobs may be relegated to the
F AGRIC
trash barrel after a delicious meal, but they too have a litany of uses. Ground
DEPT. O
up for animal feed and bedding, it is also used to absorb oil and hazardous waste spills. At one time, some cultures deployed
Since corn was first cultivated it has
(bourbon containing a minimum of 51 percent corn mash) were sold in stores, and taxed. In the spirit of the American way, moonshiners began producing “the shine” under the cover of the night to
avoid the long arm of the law.
them as a toilet paper substitute (ouch). Its
been fermented…yes, liquor. As the United
Can you imagine going to the movies
most famed use would certainly be in the
States was settled, creative colonists invented
without popcorn? Like peanut butter and
form of the legendary corn cob pipe.
corn whiskey. Aside from its intoxicating
jelly or Lucy and Ethel, they go hand in hand.
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this season A salty buttery treat to munch
It is difficult to think of our
on as the plot on the big screen
lives without the multifaceted
unfolds, popcorn poppers were
corn plant. What Thanksgiving
once a must have for students
dinner would be complete with-
heading off to college. These days
out yummy yellow kernels next
it is easily popped to perfection
to the mashed potatoes? Most
in minutes with the help of a
everyone has some aspect of this
microwave.
crop touch their lives each day: a
When it comes to shucking
jug for milk, gasoline, penicillin, part of your morning makeup,
difficulty of the task. According to
watching a blockbuster film with
JONA THUNDER
your corn, take note of the ease or New England folklore, if it’s tough to shuck, be prepared for a long cold winter. Corn silk was rolled
a bucket of popcorn, or sipping an old fashioned after a hard day at work. This autumn, place your
and smoked, and had long been made into
stuffed into mattresses for extra padding, and
cornstalks prominently as they have truly
tea for home remedies, although it’s largely
little girls made dolls from their corn husks
earned their season in the spotlight.
considered bogus these days. Husks were
long before toy stores dotted Main Street.
—Susan Carroll-Dwyer
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Forget Me Not
W
e see them at events and parades, holding flags and marching solemnly in their uniform of gray slacks, white shirts, and navy blue jackets and caps, heads held high in pride for their service to our country. We see them outside grocery stores and the Oyster Festival selling forget-me-nots. What we don’t see is all of the initiatives that our local chapter of the Disabled American Veterans (D.A.V.) undertakes.
COURTESY CHAPTER 15 DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS (2)
at your service
with him. Chapter 15 also owns its own van and offers transportation assistance to veterans who need a lift in order to travel to and from appointments. Chapter 15 is very active; in addition to parades and forget-me-not fundraisers, there are monthly meetings held the first Thursday of every month at 12:30 p.m. at the Fowler Building, 45 New Haven Avenue. The chapter initiatives are relatively grassroots and personal, including looking in on homebound veterans and
Chapter 15 of the D.A.V. is a non-profit
from military service under honorable condi-
providing them with necessary company and
organization whose motto is “Fulfilling Our
tions.” Members range in age from their early
needed items. Last summer the group brought
Promises to the Men and Women Who Served.”
30s to their 90s and have served in wars from
air conditioners to 10 homebound veterans in
Begun in the years following WWI, the D.A.V.
World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, to Kosovo,
order to help prevent complications from medi-
was officially chartered by Congress in 1932, but
Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
cal conditions. They regularly donate items
is not maintained or regulated by the United States Government.
Chapter Commander Don Sweeney is
to patients at the VA, including art supplies,
passionate about the mission of the D.A.V.
clothing, toiletries, and most recently, organic
Covering Milford, Stratford, Shelton, Derby,
and how the group is “enhancing the lives of
food and tea to the cancer ward. In the past,
Ansonia, Seymour, and Monroe, D.A.V. Chapter
veterans and protecting their rights.” Chapter
Chapter 15 has provided music therapy to the ill
15 consists of almost 700 members, all veterans,
15 members are committed to advocating for all
at the VA, thrown pizza parties for the patients
who have “served in the Armed Forces during
veterans and Sweeney himself assists veterans
on different units, and donated its time to help
a period of war or under conditions simulating
in filing benefit claims at no cost, holding
with hospice programs.
war, and were wounded, disabled to any
“office hours” at the West Haven VA Hospital
Past Commander Elizabeth Walsh, currently
degree, or left with a long-term illness as a
on Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. to make
Jr. Vice Commander of the Connecticut Region
result of military service, and were discharged
it more convenient for the veterans to meet
of the D.A.V., is passionate about her role in
12 Milford Living • Autumn
the organization; she focuses primarily on
basement for years.” She’s excited that the
the needs of female veterans. One of those
clinic is finally being moved into an adequate,
programs is the Madaras home in Bridgeport,
nicely renovated space in an appropriate part of
a 15-bed transitional housing facility oper-
the hospital.
ated by the non-profit Homes for the Brave
According to Walsh, both male and female
charity, built specifically for female veterans
veterans are very receptive to anything done
struggling with homelessness. Supported by
for them. “Small gestures are so appreciated.
the D.A.V. and other Connecticut veterans
They love to be recognized; we see a lot of
groups, the home provides counseling and
depression and we do anything we can to
support services for its residents and is a
lighten their load. The veterans we serve
“sanctuary for those who have returned
can’t say thank you enough.” She describes
home bearing the physical, mental, and
a time when she and other D.A.V. members
emotional scars of combat.” Walsh and other
brought stress balls, toiletries, and bottles of
members of Chapter 15 lend support in a
Walsh is also an advocate on proper health-
nail polish to hospitalized veterans who lit
number of ways; recently they purchased
care services for female veterans, bemoaning
up by the small gifts and the attention they
books for two residents about to begin a new
the fact that “the women’s health clinic at
received. “Giving them someone to talk to
chapter in their lives by attending college.
the V.A. has been stuck in a tiny space in the
clearly brightened their day.”
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at your service ing The Milford Bank, Subway, the Fred DeLuca Foundation, and Pops Restaurant. The Chapter collects minimal dues from their members
COURTESY CHAPTER 15 DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS
and has donation canisters in several locations
The D.A.V. is a self-funded non-profit and their biggest fundraiser is the small blue forget-
me-nots they sell. In addition, the Chapter does receive support from local organizations includ-
a community support system
around town. They budget very carefully to maximize the services they can provide to the veterans around the state. Extra donations are always welcome, and can be sent to P.O. Box 3006 Milford, CT 06460. D.A.V. Chapter 15 provides a needed lifeline to those who have served our country and are now potentially underserved. We are fortunate to have such an active chapter looking out for our loved ones, neighbors, and friends who have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. —Shaileen Kelly Landsberg
To all of our DeDicaTeD VolunTeers, Generous Donors anD sponsors, enThusiasTic riDers, runners anD Walkers We are honored by your support for Bridges and our annual Folks on Spokes – Folks on Foot Ride, Run, Walk for Mental Health. With your help, a September Sunday becomes an incredible day for raising awareness of mental health needs and services in our community, and a successful fundraising event each year! On behalf of Bridges’ board, staff, and especially our clients, and all of our family, friends and neighbors who turn to Bridges for help in difficult times, thank you! Michelle LeMere, Board Chair Barbara DiMauro, President & CEO
14 Milford Living • Autumn
WW W.B L A K EFO R M I L F O R D.C O M
Ben Blake for Milford, Benjamin Gettinger, Treasurer. Approved by Ben Blake.
VOTE ROW A N OVE MB ER 3R D, 2015
milford wildlife detrimental to the birds. Further, the United Illuminating Company had been working on clearing trees from power lines, but Hess said that the company was very cooperative and postponed tree clearing until the nest was inactive. “The neighborhood was really
The Eagles Have Landed F
supportive and a huge help to us, as were the town and the utilities company. They did a great job of taking ownership and keeping those birds safe,” Hess said. “It’s been seventy years, so we’re excited the birds are back in Milford. It’s a
or local resident Lou Spero it all started one morning in early February when he was heading out in his van to start his day. “I saw the white head and white tail and was shocked,” he says. Spero spent the rest of his day going around town to try to find the bald eagle he saw and stumbled upon nearly a dozen immature eagles. After speaking to neighbors and being directed to the Laurel Beach area, he finally saw the nest. A pair of eagles had taken up residence in Milford for the first time in seven decades. A crowd of people had gathered around and, as Spero recalls, “Residents were thrilled, saying, ‘It’s a miracle,’ and they’re glad it’s happening.”
great thing.” The conservation efforts of the community paid off and it soon appeared that the pair of eagles were protecting an egg. As Spero recalls, “Everybody would get together and we’d all go to the nest looking for an egg. Everyone got excited because the female was staying in the nest while the male was going out, which is an indication that she
To ensure Milford was a welcoming
was sitting on the egg or eggs.” For a while no
home to our feathered friends, Spero
one knew for sure, but once they finally saw
contacted the state Department of Energy
the egg, “there was happiness throughout the
and Environmental Protection (DEEP) which
community.”
sent over wildlife biologist Brian Hess. Hess
Spero, an avid birdwatcher for fifteen years and volunteer for the Audubon Society, is
nest. While Hess said DEEP avoids disclosing
familiar with eagles in the area, including
the exact locations of eagle nests for their
part of an eagle watch in Southbury where
protection, he said this nest, being in an
eagles are known to nest near the Shepaug
urbanized residential location, was tough to
Dam. Because the dam circulates the water
keep secret. Luckily, it was on DEEP property,
preventing it from freezing, the area makes a
so the department was able to close the
suitable habitat for the eagles to live and fish.
area and put up signs with a phone number
Because of the colder-than-average winter
for anyone to report if they saw someone
last year, Spero speculates that the eagles
disturbing the nest.
may have migrated further south along the
The city was working on sidewalks in the area at the same time, so the DEEP worked with Milford city planners to ensure that none of the work being performed would be
16 Milford Living • Autumn
LEWIS A. SPERO (3)
told residents to keep a distance from the
Housatonic River to Milford. The weather, however, was not the only factor determining where the eagles finally took up residence. Hess says that eagles will
always choose a location close to water, so
conservation efforts, Spero says,
generally nests are along rivers, ponds, and
“Quite a few people kept it going.
reservoirs. Clear takeoff and landing routes
There were a lot of friendships made
are also very important due to eagles’ large
protecting the area.”
size; the wingspan of a bald eagle can range
In terms of the future, can
from six to eight feet and it takes a lot of
Milford expect the birds to return?
energy and a clear route for them to get
Spero says yes, especially because
off the ground. For this reason, eagles will
they have already successfully
choose larger and taller trees for easy flight
fledged one chick. “Eagles mate
pathways. While the nest in Milford is not
for life and come back to the same
on a particularly tall tree, it’s not blocked by
nest every year as long as nothing
many other branches and provides a clear
happens to the male or female,” he
pathway.
explains. “Hopefully they’ll have
While hopefully the eagles have found a
another successful nesting for the
welcoming home in Milford, the community
next 25-30 years.”
has also enjoyed having them. Of the
—Jessica Avitabile
ROOFINGSIDING • SIDING • WINDOWS ROOFING WINDOWS DECKS• DECKS SOLAR• GUTTERS INSULATION DECKS
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2015 • Milford Living 17
milford fit difficulty. In fact, Milford hosts an annual Folks on Spokes charity ride for Bridges which helps to raise awareness and funds for people dealing with mental illnesses or addiction. The event has many mapped-out routes around the Connecticut shoreline that include a 5, 10, 20, 40, 50, or 66-mile rides. (Now you know what those FOS signs are for!) Each route used during the event can be ridden all year long. COURTESY OF BRIDGES
As a city, Milford is becoming very progressive in the development of bike lanes around the town. The East Coast Greenway Alliance (an organization that plans on making a walkway from Calais, Maine to Key
Take a Ride
R
iding a bike is a simple but effective way to have fun with friends and is great for getting some exercise in a non-stressful way. From childhood to adulthood, people ride their bikes to get to places, exercise, or just have fun. Here in Milford, there are plenty of options for those interested in a leisure ride or a way to get from point A to point B. The exercise‌it comes with both. Milford is well known for having 14 miles of coastal shoreline, but most people don’t
know that Milford is also home to 17 miles
West, Florida) coordinated with the Milford
of bikeable shoreline and trails that vary in
Public Works Department, Connecticut DOT, and Milford Planning to design a contraflow
As a city, Milford is becoming very progressive in the development of bike lanes around the town. 18 Milford Living • Autumn
bike lane designed to let bicyclists ride in the opposite direction of motor vehicles. The bike lane will be at Wilcox Park and will convert a one-way street into a two-way street: one of the directions will have motor vehicles and bikes, while the other will have bikes only.
COURTESY OF CITY OF MILFORD
The contraflow bike lane will be the first in
terrain that starts at Jonathan Law High
to work or a friend’s house, there are
Connecticut and will be a prime example
School, goes by the Connecticut Audubon
bike lanes along the Boston Post Road to
for other towns to follow suit. The trail from
Coastal Center, travels around Walnut Beach
encourage safe travel alongside motor
Maine to Florida will be 2,900 miles and
and Silver Sands State Park, and finishes back
vehicles. Bicyclists can also safely ride across
Milford will have 11 miles of the trail, including
at Jonathan Law. It’s a nice scenic ride for
the side of the Sikorsky Bridge over the
the 0.2 miles of the contraflow bike lane.
those who would like to take in a lot of the
Housatonic River to get to Stratford and other
scenery coastal Milford has to offer.
neighboring towns.
One well-known trail that is not too difficult is the Shoreline Short Ride, 10.3 miles of flat
If you are using your bike as transportation
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legends & lore
Spirits of Milford Y
ou may have seen groups of people walking near the Milford Green with a lantern. Especially at this time of year, I spend my weekend nights guiding LED candle-lit Spirits of Milford Ghost Walks through the downtown area, weaving stories about the city’s 376-year history in with those of the dark and macabre. The 90-minute walks start near where
Milford Harbor. Sitting among the pine trees,
Milford did, at the Hotchkiss Bridge on Helwig
her arms and legs crossed, the anguished
Street. There, where a rock marks the 1639
woman rocks and wails, mourning not just the
arrival of the Rev. Peter Prudden to found the
loss of her sons, but the Paugusset land Chief
Milford Colony, I tell the story of a Paugusset
Ansantawae sold to Prudden that she believed
Indian maiden who was so distressed over the
was the birthright of her sons.
settlers’ purchase of her beloved Wepawaug,
“I believe there are unsettled spirits,” said a
she strangled and killed her two young sons.
Milford native who participated in two Spirits
Legend says that on winter nights when the
of Milford Ghost Walks last year. During one
mist coming out of the top of the Memorial
moon is full you can see the native woman
walk she captured an amazing photo of what
Tower on New Haven Avenue––a puzzling
on the hill of Wilcox Park where it overlooks
looks like a stretching arc of white, ghostly
occurrence on an immaculately clear night.
20 Milford Living • Autumn
Other stops along the comfortably paced
Connecticut Colony governors and a man
particularly active area. “There are no visible
1.1-mile ghost walk include:
named Andrew Sanford, who in 1663
electricity sources there that would cause the
The bottom of High Street––just before
stood trial for witchcraft in Hartford.
EMF meters to spike, so I have to believe it’s
we lose sight of Milford Harbor––to learn
Sanford was exonerated but his wife
being caused by spirit energy,” said Adam
about the three curses cast on Charles
Mary was hanged.
Shefts, founder of the Northeast Paranormal
Island; The Milford Historical Society houses,
Investigations Society. “It’s unexplainable.” Spirits of Milford Ghost Walks always
Shefts and other Northeast Paranormal
where 289-year-old Captain Stephen
have unexpected stops. When the orange
team members have joined us on several
Stow, along with at least three other
lights and buzzers on the four EMF detectors
Spirits of Milford walks, as well as helped
colonial spirits, are believed to still visit;
we carry go off––signaling a change in
co-host two public paranormal investigations
The Milford Green, where we talk about
electromagnetic energy and the possibility
at the Milford Historical Society’s Eells-Stow,
Victorian death rituals, places where
of spirit activity––we stop, explore, and take
Clark-Stockade, and Bryan-Downs houses.
the past is hidden in plain sight, and the
photographs. The hope is to digitally capture
Those investigation this summer led to
ghost of a little girl seen in buildings on
orbs, or other signs of ghostly energy that the
many additional unexplainable occurrences,
Broad Street;
naked eye can’t see.
including an audio recording––in a silent
Milford Cemetery, which among other
notables, is home to the bodies of three
The stretch of old houses near where High and Green Streets meet tends to be a
house––of an unknown voice whispering “I did it,” and video footage of a spinning wheel
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2015 • Milford Living 21
legends & lore that begins to spin on its own. It’s also not uncommon for the unexplainable to occur when we stop near the Chamber of Commerce building and walkers attempt to make a pair of copper dowsing rods move and point to a specific object by using just their minds and energy. Believe it or not, most can do it. Dowsing rods are part of every tour. Those who want to give them a try and take
Groups of 10 or more can also schedule a
a Spirits of Milford Ghost Walk can do so
private tour on Monday-Thursday nights.
at 7:00 p.m. most Fridays, Saturdays, and
Chatting as we walk, many participants
D’Avignon, who’s taken the walk several times. “There’s a fear and excitement in not knowing what you’re going to encounter
Sundays until early December. Visit www.
share that they decided to take a Spirits of
outside the dark. It’s also fun to hear about
spiritsofmilford.com for a list of upcoming
Milford Ghost Walk because they like history.
other people’s personal encounters with the
dates. Last year, almost all October and
But even more tell me they like to be scared.
paranormal and to see a skeptic become a
November walks sold out, so purchasing advance tickets is recommended.
“Hearing ghost stories and being scared
believer.”
is part of the fun,” said resident Lisa Fildes
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milford spotlight
Milford Hall of Fame W
ho are Charles Pond, Susan and Morris Abbott, Clark Wilcox, Andrew Law, and the Reverend Roger Newton, and what do they have in common? Answering the latter question first, these six individuals are the 2015 inductees into the Milford Hall of Fame. Devoted to recognizing and honoring those who have brought distinction to Milford’s community through their service and accomplishments, the Milford Hall of Fame inducted its first group of honorees in 2008. To date it has recognized 35 individuals with etched portraits and plaques that hang in the Parson’s Center Government Complex in downtown Milford.
participated in the Siege of Boston and later served in the same regiment as Nathan Hale. Because of his skills as a sailor, he
Milford Hall of Fame inductees are
colonists in Boston. Commissioned an
was given command of the sloop Schuyler,
chosen by a research committee, which
ensign in Captain Peter Perit’s company
which transported Hale to the shores of Long
this year included Richard Platt, Jerry
of Colonel Charles Webb’s regiment, he
Island where he was eventually captured
Ackerman, Marolyn Paulis, Bill McDonald,
and executed for espionage. Pond was
Helen and Dan Rusanowsky, and Ed and
with General George Washington when he
Dotty Kozlowski. Mrs. Kozlowski is also the
crossed the Delaware River on December 25,
portrait artist whose drawings are etched
1776, and was also present at the Battle of
onto the plaques. The Milford Hall of Fame organization is funded by corporate and private donors, and operates through the generous work of volunteers. Here is a brief description of each of this year’s Milford Hall of Fame inductees.
White Plains and the Battle of Princeton in 1777. He received a commission as a captain in the army, which he resigned in 1779 in order to take command of the Defense, a war vessel built in Connecticut to protect its coastline. Captain Charles Pond continued this service until the end of the
CHARLES POND (1744-1832) is remembered
primarily for his active, and patriotic
Revolution and is known in Milford’s history as “Liberty’s Friend.”
participation in the American Revolution. Born in Milford, he was a prosperous sailor
SUSAN ABBOTT (1901-1994) and
who, after hearing of the Battle of Bunker
MORRIS ABBOTT (1898-1978) were major
Hill, enlisted and went to the aid of the
contributors to the recording and archiving
24 Milford Living • Autumn
of Milford’s history. Born in Milford, Susan
history of the Milford Cemetery
CLARK WILCOX (1853- ?)
was a genealogist. Her book, Families of
and the Memorial Bridge and
has given Milford one of
Early Milford, Connecticut, contains the
authored two books on these
its most cherished pieces of
genealogical records of approximately 300
subjects. A map he created
families, including Milford’s first settlers,
which shows the location of the
known as Free Planters, and the After
headstones in the old section
Planters, who followed. She was an active
of the Milford Cemetery
member of the Freelove Baldwin Stowe
is available at a kiosk
Library and runs
chapter of the Daughters of the American
in the Cemetery near
between Gulf
Revolution, the Connecticut Society of
the Revolutionary War
Street and Milford
Genealogists, and the Milford Historical
monument. Morris was also
Society. Susan’s husband, Morris, was a
commissioned by the Milford
historian for the Milford Historical Society,
Medical Society to write Medical
a member of the Connecticut Society of
Men of Milford which contains
Genealogists, and the New Haven Colony
biographies of all the physicians who
Historical Society. He specialized in the
practiced in Milford up to 1900.
property, the appropriately named Wilcox Park. The tract of land is located behind the Milford Public
Harbor, serving as a recreational center for Milford residents
Milford Yacht Club
and for visitors who
arrive by boat. It is home
to the Wilcox Park baseball “Not your grandfather’s club”
The Milford YachT club where friendship and memories are made “NoT Your graNdfaThers club”
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milford spotlight diamonds, the John Scalici tennis courts, a
ANDREW LAW (1749-1821) was born in
public boat ramp, and a trail system through
Milford and was the grandson of Jonathan
some forested land that leads to a cantilevered
Law, the 27th governor of the Colony of
wooden platform overlooking Milford Harbor.
Connecticut. He was ordained as a religious
The park also houses the Rotary Pavilion
preacher in 1787, but is remembered
and Fowler Field, where local fairs, musical
primarily for his accomplishments as a
events, and other civic celebrations are held.
music arranger, composer, and musical
Clark Wilcox purchased the land more than
pioneer. Law was among the first American
100 years ago from Franklin H. Fowler, a
composers whose arrangements put a
descendant of William Fowler, one of Milford’s
song’s melody in the soprano voice instead
first settlers. He then donated it to the city
of in the tenor. He was one of the first
through the Village Improvement Association
singing teachers of sacred music, was
and assumed the expense of putting the
an early advocate of the FASOLA
park into usable condition. The Village
system of musical notation, and
Improvement Association unanimously voted
when his 1781 petition to the State
to call the land Wilcox Park.
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privileges for his Collection of Best Tunes and
Mary Hooker in 1644. In 1652, Rev. Newton
Anthems was passed, he received the first
founded and became the first minister
author copyright in America. Throughout
of a church in Farmington, Connecticut
his life Law wrote several books about
where he remained until his return
music, including Select Harmony, Christian
to Boston in 1657 with the intention
Harmony, and Essays on Music. He also
of sailing back to England. About that
composed original music and arranged the
time, however, Rev. Peter Prudden of
hymns and tunes of other composers.
Milford Colony’s First Congregational Society passed away. In 1660 Rev.
REV. ROGER NEWTON (1610 - 1685) was born
Newton accepted the position of
in England and educated at Kings College
pastor and moved to Milford with
(Cambridge) before moving to the Boston
his wife and six of their eight
Colony in 1638. He studied at Harvard and
children. Their two youngest children
moved to the Hartford Colony to study the
were born in Milford. Rev. Newton
ministry under Rev. Thomas Hooker, who
served as pastor for 22 years.
became his father-in-law when he married
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Milford Giving BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER
28 Milford Living • Autumn
T
he U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) defines “volunteers” as “persons who did unpaid work (except for expenses) through or for an organization.” BLS keeps track of nationwide volunteer statistics, which have unfortunately reached an all-time low. Between September 2013 and September 2014, 25 percent of Americans volunteered at least once as compared to a 27 percent rate back in 2005. Bucking this trend, Connecticut currently ranks 18th in the nation among volunteers. In Milford, many of our friends, neighbors and co-workers are committed to a life of volunteerism. Why do they do what they do? What can we learn from their example? Below, local nonprofit leaders and their standout volunteers enlighten us.
encouraged to see clients “move from despair
BETH-EL CENTER
Wendy Dulin
to volunteer. Their “generosity is often times
Dulin feels “blessed” to spend her every Thurs-
overwhelming,” she says. “It reassures me that
the services that the Beth-El Center provides,”
day manning Beth-El’s front desk, “answering
there are people who care, help, and support
says executive director Toni Dolan. “Their
phones, directing calls, preparing bank deposits,
those who are in need.”
unselfish dedication is inspiring.” Acknowl-
inputting the donor database, and preparing
edging that it takes a team effort to “change
many thank you letters and cards for the mon-
a person’s life,” Dolan recognizes how one
etary and in-kind donations we receive.” She’s
“Our volunteers are critical to the provision of
“simple act of kindness can go a long way
and homelessness to self-sufficiency” as a result of the Center’s employment, education, training, housing, and counseling services. What’s kept her “coming back” since 2009, “is the outpouring of support the center receives.” Dulin cites “the countless people who come to our door with money they raised from a lemonade stand, an anonymous cash donation ‘just because’, handmade mittens and scarves to warm the homeless, youth groups purchasing arts and craft items,” and other acts of kindness as some of her reasons for continuing
Find out how to volunteer: bethelmilford.securesites.com/index.php
towards easing the daily struggles of those seeking shelter, food, and support services.”
Fred Baldieri
Cooking, baking, and sautéing during Beth-El’s Friday lunch shift has been a constant for Badlieri. He arrives by 8:30 a.m., does the prep, and together with five or six other volunteers “serves a high-quality impressive restaurantstyle meal between 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. to an average of 50-75 people a day.” “People come in here with a real need,” says Baldieri. “They really appreciate it.” Although his ten years of cooking in Beth-El’s kitchen have shown him that “Milford is a very caring community,” he’s gained a deeper appreciation for what we may take for granted. “One never knows when one will be in that same position.”
2015 • Milford Living 29
ing of Bridges’ mission and our role in the community and takes
Anthony Candido
Candido and his wife Diane are serving their
every opportunity to tell others
third year as co-chairs of the United Way of
about the positive impact Bridges
Milford’s Fundraising Campaign. “I’ve learned
has had on so many lives.”
so much about what the United Way and
Kathy Anderson
their agencies do for our community,” he says. “What keeps me motivated to continue are
Anderson’s enthusiasm for this
the people who join us in the commitment to
“amazing organization that has
helping others right here in Milford.” With a
changed so many lives for the
goal to raise $900,000 a year for the last two
better,” matches her tireless advo-
years, Candido can proudly claim “94 percent
cacy. In the face of pending state
achievement of that goal in 2013-14 and 96
and federal mental health budget
percent of that number in 2014-15.”
cuts, she affirms that “Bridges
Candido remains confident that no matter
needs support more than ever to sustain their services!” Prompted to get involved with community service due to an
BRIDGES, A COMMUNITY SUPPORT SYSTEM
impending empty nest and by the memory
Since 1957, Bridges has provided mental
Anderson wants “to raise awareness of
health and addiction services for children,
the fear and confusion around mental health,
adults, young adults, and families through-
show support for the people on their road to
out Milford and its surrounding communi-
recovery, and convey to those suffering that
ties. Due to strict client-staff confidentially
recovery is possible!”
guidelines, “Bridges is not a volunteer-oriented organization with regard to assisting staff with clients,” explains Marcy Hotchkiss, Bridges director of fund development & communications. Instead, “we welcome volunteers for our annual signature fundraising event—Folks on Spokes: Folks on Foot Ride, Run, Walk for Mental Health. “We are in great need of reliable, energetic,
of her own mother’s battle with depression,
Find out how to volunteer: bridgesmilford.org
UNITED WAY OF MILFORD
Milford Chapter president and CEO Gary Johnson refers to the 200+ volunteers that help out each year as “the life blood of our
what the goal, through Milford’s “residents,
enthusiastic volunteers to help keep our
organization.” With only three staffers on the
employees, small business and major firms,
cyclists, runners, and walkers safe, comfort-
payroll, Johnson admits, “we could not fulfill
we will once again work hard to get closer to
able, and feeling greatly appreciated through-
our mission and conduct our work if volun-
the goal.”
out the day!” Hotchkiss confirms that for
teers weren’t involved. He names Anthony
“more than two decades, we have had many
Candido, Bill Hoagland, and Kristin Huffman
members of the community help out, includ-
as three individuals “who exemplify what
ing local realtor Kathy Anderson, who brings
our United Way volunteer corps is like…all
to United Way “to 17 years ago with the
her sunny smile and warm personality to
three go above and beyond in terms of what
BIC campaign,” Hoagland admits to being
keep track of everything from registration to
they give back to our organization and to the
brought up in a family of volunteers. As
refreshments. She has a thorough understand-
Milford community at large.”
co-chair for the Agencies and Clubs Division,
30 Milford Living • Autumn
Bill Hoagland
Although he can pinpoint his first connection
her husband Andy Reimann were looking to
residents can take, share, or leave leave a book
“reach out beyond ourselves and find a way
to share, to working on an oral history project
to help those who really need it in Milford.”
with local artists whose work is displayed at
By combining her knowledge of theatrical
The Parsons Complex, “everything she does,
production, pooling the talents of her own
she does well,” says Bolin.
CT-based non-profit New Paradigm Theatre (NPT), and calling upon her “Broadway pals”
Lisa Thornell-Gargiulo
to perform in two benefits, Huffman raised
As both the senior curatorial assistant of
funds, provided invaluable performing
Prints & Drawings at the Yale Center for
experience to the young members of her NPT
British Art, and weekend reference librarian
Youth Board, and encouraged local businesses
at Fairfield University, Thornell-Gargiulo has
to become sponsors. A win-win all around.
been working in libraries since high school. “I
She identifies the United Way “as a trusted
moved to Milford a little over two years ago
he takes pride in his chapter’s committee
group that has collaboration—with the city,
and wanted to get involved, so I naturally
members who are “set up to listen to the
other non-profits, and those directly in need—
gravitated towards joining the Friends’ Little
organizations that need assistance, evaluate
as one of their agenda items. That inspires me.”
Libraries project. We hosted launch parties and
their requests, and then carefully allocate funding based upon need.” “I stay involved because the United Way helps so many people in our community,” Hoagland says. “They have so many resources and the money raised here stays here.”
Kristin Huffman
Find out how to volunteer: unitedwayofmilford.org
MILFORD LIBRARY
Milford Library director Christine Angeli relies upon volunteers of all ages “to help keep
“While writing an article on the various non-
our shelves organized and carry out special
profits in Milford, Gary asked me if I would
projects.” One such project that morphed into
consider being on the United Way marketing
a full-fledged volunteer group is the Friends of
committee. He’s a hard guy to say no to,”
the Milford Library (FOML). “Their assistance is
Huffman quips. At the time, Huffman and
invaluable,” says Angeli. “Under the leadership of their new president Anne Bolin, the FOML “raise funds to support library programming and act as advocates for the library within the community.” In addition to developing and installing “Little Libraries” around town, the
cut a ribbon for each Little Library to introduce
FOML produces new resident information
them to the community. Families and neigh-
packets, run the annual book sale at the Oyster
bors came out to celebrate, as well as Mayor
Festival, instituted a high school book award
Blake and our friends at Parks and Recreation
program, and much more.
who helped get the proper permissions to start
Bolin considers volunteer Lisa Thornell-Gar-
the project. Seeing people get excited about
giulo “a tremendous asset…who is infectiously
reading and sharing conversations about the
enthusiastic and gets things done.” From
project, was very rewarding.”
initiating and chairing their Little Libraries
“I hope Milford Living readers will consider
program, involving the construction and in-
picking up some more information on the
stallation of three kiosks around town where
Friends during their next Library visit,” says
2015 • Milford Living 31
Thornell-Gargiulo. Taking this into account,
volunteering at the Shelter. For the last nine
she poses a question and makes an appeal.
years she has been “involved with walking
“Public Libraries are our biggest community
and socializing the dogs, as well as the cats
asset, don’t you think? Visit the Library! Join the
and kittens that come in through the feral cat
Friends! There are many volunteer opportuni-
program, and the pregnant strays that come
ties for residents-of all ages, whether you work
in.” She confirms of the latter that “they give
full time, are retired, or a student.”
birth at the shelter. When the cats and kittens
Find out how to volunteer: ci.milford.ct.us/milford-public-library
MILFORD ANIMAL SHELTER
are vaccinated, we can socialize them prior to being adopted out.” With three cats and one dog (all rescues) of her own, Hiddlestone finds her time at the Shelter to be very rewarding, especially since she plays an important role in the animals’
Milford Animal Control Officer Scott Ellingson
lives. “For many of them, this is the first
firmly believes that “volunteers are the lifeline
time anyone has shown them kindness or
for shelter animals. They provide love and
attention on a regular basis,” she explains.
chose, which I am still doing, are the Informa-
comfort to pets, are key to socializing and help-
“Volunteers like me help prepare the animals
tion Desk (evening shift chairperson) and
for their real forever homes.”
Refreshment Cart (chairperson).
Find out how to volunteer: ci.milford.ct.us/animal-control
give more time during the day, becoming
MILFORD HOSPITAL
some office positions.” Other times, Roessle fills in at the desk in the Administration, Engineering, or Volunteer offices, or at various health fairs for the Education Department. “I
fortunate to have an active corps
am proud of being a volunteer,” she says, “and
of over 350 volunteers,” says Karen
that my dedication is appreciated by a ‘Thank
Kipfer, the director of community
you’ or a smile.”
give freely of their time and talent to provide services that significantly add
Rita Canas
A volunteer for a dozen years, including two
to the overall quality of care. Volun-
terms as president of the Milford Hospital
teers truly are a valuable and integral
Auxiliary, Canas is currently the organization’s
part of our team and our family. With
co-president. “When I retired, I needed some-
their longevity of service and dedi-
thing to fill my time. I saw an ad in our church
cated commitment to our hospital,
bulletin that Milford Hospital was in need of
ing animals come out of their shells, and are an
Rita Canas and Alba Roessle exemplify the
intrinsic part of shelter operations, doing tasks
nature of all our volunteers.”
Nancy Hiddlestone
active in the Hospital Auxiliary where I held
“At Milford Hospital we are extremely
relations. “These generous individuals
that staff may not have time to get to.”
When I retired 16 years ago, I was able to
Alba Roessle
volunteers and I guess that was my calling.” “What has kept me stay motivated is my need to do as much as I can to help in any way I can,” says Canas. She’s enormously
“Who knew 45 years would pass after I decided
proud of the many fundraising ideas that
“The staff here is very, very knowledgeable,”
to volunteer ten hours a month at night in
have come to fruition, such as the hospitals’
says Hiddlestone, a longtime dog-person who
appreciation for the TLC my father got while in
Garden of Life and the first-ever gala to honor
knew nothing about cats when she first began
the hospital?” Roessle wonders. “The services I
Milford doctors. She is also grateful to have
32 Milford Living • Autumn
learned so much from her fellow volunteers
12 Connecticut, honored by the Milford
and admits to being constantly awed by the
Columbus Committee, and having received
caring healthcare professionals and hospital
a Certificate of Papal Blessing from Pope
staff. “They work so hard and sometimes it
Francis, these achievements have encouraged
goes unnoticed…we put our life in their hands
her to do more. She quotes Linda Ellis’s poem
and they do an amazing job.”
“The Dash” as a major source of inspiration
Canas’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Featured as a “Home Town Hero” on News
(the dash referring to the line between the dates of birth and death on a tombstone):
“For it matters not, how much we own, the cars…the house…the cash. What matters is how we live and love and how we spend our dash.” “I am living my dash,” says Canas. “Volunteering is my passion.” Find out how to volunteer: milfordhospital.org/volunteering
Your Health, Your Community... ...Your Hospital Why Choose MilfoRd hosPital? • We were named a Top Performer in Key Quality Measures by the Joint Commission. • We consistently rank among the top hospitals in Connecticut for providing a positive patient experience. • We are designated a Blue Distinction Center+ for excellence in quality and efficiency in Knee and Hip Replacement. • Our compassionate and experienced caregivers are dedicated to providing quality, safe and patient centered care.
Main Number: 203-876-4000 Physician Referral: 203-876-4500 Connecticut Joint Center: 203-876-4503 Urgent Care Center: 203-876-4101
300 Seaside Avenue • Milford • www.milfordhospital.org Excellence in CARE and CARING 2015 • Milford Living 33
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arts + artisans
The Art of the Doodle D You are not alone.
the author of Gamestorming and The Doodle
Historically, doodling has been considered
Revolution. Named one of the “100 Most
a distraction, a bad habit for students and
Creative People in Business,” by Fast Company
workers alike. But in recent years it’s gained
magazine, Brown founded the creative
some serious clout with research-based
consultancy Sunni Brown Ink to teaching
reports indicating that doodling helps with
“applied visual thinking,” or doodling, to
both memory retention and creativity.
coders, designers, and even journalists.
You can call it a doodling revolution of sorts.
Brown suggests that because humans
COURTESY OF LOUISE HEBERT (3)
id you spend the majority of your junior year chemistry class doodling in the margins of your college-rule notebook? Or has your boss caught you in mid-scribble during her whiteboard presentation?
business, Louise and her husband moved to
Einstein, JFK, and Thomas Edison were all
are so linguistic-focused when it comes to
Florida and began working as consultants
seasoned doodlers, knowing instinctively
brainstorming (for instance, reading, writing,
helping other jewelers with their retirement
that doodling is an innovative tool for
and talking), that visiting an unfamiliar
and liquidation sales. Because her job
problem solving.
medium—a visual medium in particular—can
requires a lot of hours, she has recently found
help break the mold.
herself doodling to help relieve stress.
Companies like Dell, Zappos, and Disney have jumped on the bandwagon and are
And to be clear, doodling isn’t just for
“I started to bring some paper and pencils
actually eager for employees to doodle on the
trained artists, says Brown. It’s about
to the jobs we are on and began doodling on a
job—even paying consultants to help them.
communicating and understanding ideas,
page to help to relax, unwind, and forget about
Leading this revolution is Sunni Brown,
de-stressing, and of course, having some fun.
her daughter a photograph of one of her
Louise Hebert, a longtime Milfordite and along with husband Joe, the former owner of the downtown landmark Hebert
doodles a few months ago, she discovered that doodling has resurfaced as a movement across the world. “My daughter immediately sent me
Jewelers, says she has been a
information on Zentangling, the doodling art
doodler by nature for most of her
form,” she says. “I had no idea it’s become such
life. “When I was in school I would
a craze. It’s all over Pinterest and there is tons
doodle all over my books,” she says. “If I had any sort of free time with paper and pen, I would doodle.”
of information about it.” Zentangling is a method of drawing deliberate, structured patterns through specified series of steps resulting in a creative
After closing
expression. Founders Rick Roberts and Maria
her Broad Street
Thomas intended for Zentangling to be a fun
jewelry store in 2011 after nearly 60 years of
36 Milford Living • Autumn
life for a little while,” she says. After sending
and lighthearted way to relax and intentionally facilitate a shift in focus and perspective.
Taking her doodling to the next level, Hebert
back to an activity generally reserved for
Perhaps it’s nostalgia, or just a way to
says she researched some Zentangle patterns
childhood, Zentangling and adult coloring
unplug, but doodling has made a serious
and began creating more intricate designs and
books have become rampant. Ascending from
comeback. Inspired by words, songs, events,
developed greeting cards. She said many of her
Crayola and artist businesswoman Lisa Frank
and people, Milford artist Joy Haines says her
images are inspired by patterns found in nature,
to the bestseller lists of both Amazon and
doodles are a result, in a sense, of what could
whether in the form of leaves, trees, or feathers.
Publishers Weekly, adult coloring books have
be; thoughts and feelings have color that take
become an exploding trend.
shape on a blank page and become her art.
“I’m blessed to live on the water in Florida and my husband and I kayak into the bay
Dover, a longtime publisher of children’s
As a lifelong doodler, Haines says while she
and I’ll bring my sketchpad along with me
coloring books, launched its Creative Haven
took her first art class at age 11, she has rarely
and doodle. The doodle may not look like a
line about three years ago, offering adult-
stayed within the lines of traditional art. “I
piece of driftwood or a leaf per say, but if you
friendly coloring with highly detailed and
painted trees purple,” she laughs, “but lucky
look at even the waves there are patterns in
intricate illustrations printed on premium
for me, my father, a motivational speaker,
all of these things and it’s what I creatively
paper in categories that range from mosaics
never told me that trees were green.”
duplicate,” she says.
and mandalas and African designs to art deco,
With more grown-ups than ever reverting
owls, cats, and quilts.
Beautifying Milford one kitchen at a time since 1997 - Family owned and operated -
Haines says her doodles always start with a line; maybe an intersecting line and a
Deja Vu
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arts + artisans sphere. From just a few basic shapes, Haines has created a portfolio filled with doodles of fish and wizards, unicorns and guitars. COURTESY OF JOY HAINES (3)
“I tend to always include spheres, eyes, and hearts in all of my work,” she says. From her circus-inspired work “Cirque” to her Escher-esque “Seapak,” Haines shares the joy of color and shapes with both real and imaginary images and forms. Inspired by musician friends who played on the New Haven Green
transformed her sheet of watercolor paper into
preferring to inspire and encourage others to
in the early 70s, Haines’ work “We Played for
a medieval village and was awarded a “Best
create.
Peace,” portrays five guitars with peace signs.
in Show” at the Hamden Art League annual
Another work, “Wizardcity,” was inspired by a
Goldenbells Exhibit. Her work can be seen at
start with a line and then another one and
Harry Potter movie. Haines says she began by
Gilded Lily Gallery in downtown Milford.
another, and take it from there.”
doodling wizard hats on a page that eventually
“Anyone can do this,” she says. “Just
Haines shies away from self-promotion,
—Makayla Silva
sALon & bouTique
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PAtiO OPEn
(weather permitting) DINNER SERVED Tuesday-Thursday 5-9PM Friday-Saturday 3-10PM Closed Sunday & Monday
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milford morsels
Curry Leaves
Y
ou might say things are looking up, especially if you are looking for Indian food in Milford. And if you are looking for Curry Leaves, the new Indian/Eurasian restaurant tucked into the corner at the 157 Cherry Street, you’ll have to look up and locate the small overhead sign to find it. Newly opened, the menu features typical Northern, and the somewhat harder to find Southern, Indian foods. You will find pekoras andsamosas, dals, curries, masalas, and tandoori dishes, as well as some surprises, like the Paneer Shashlik, a combination of homemade cheese and vegetables marinated then grilled in the tandoori oven. Your other favorite paneers are here, as well as biryanis and vindaloos. Elegance was also evident in the light-
CURRY LEAVES
157 Cherry Street, Milford 203.301.5000 (delivery available) www.curryleavesct.com Lunch (including buffet): Sun. – Sat 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Dinner: Sun. – Thurs. 3:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Delivery is available.
handedness of the kitchen. The combination of heavily spiced Indian foods and cleaner
desire. One surprise was the curried goat,
Eurasian fare made for a lighter meal than
somewhat comparable to a New England
will most likely be
expected with such an array of dishes
beef stew, and well worth trying. “People
found in the buffet Friday
available at the lunchtime buffet.
love this,” said Dhiraj Thapa, manager of
through Sunday, and is a wonderful
the restaurant. “The meat is cut from the
way to take on those cold afternoons to
noodles, you will find what you are
Still, even among spring rolls and
bone and cooked with lots of onion, gravy,
come.
looking for if Indian foods are your heart’s
ginger, garlic, and cilantro.” Goat curry
The variety in curried flavors was surprising. From the lush gravy of the goat curry to a lighter Sambar, a spicy hot Southern Indian vegetable soup served with a dosa, a rice crepe that can be ordered stuffed with potatoes or other vegetables, it’s hard to believe the two dishes are related, even by a spice. CHRISTINE ROSE (4)
Other nice surprises include the
40 Milford Living • Autumn
dumplings, which look like any other small, fried, stuffed pillow of Asian descent. However, the difference is in the details, and these dumplings took their ancestry
and traveled to India, picking up spices like the Marco Polo of its day. The diners in the restaurant all agreed they were terrific. Get there early for the buffet or they will surely be gone. You will also find Indo-Chinese Haka noodles; thin, very tasty, and lightly seasoned with a kick. These and other dishes can be ordered on a heat scale from 1-5. Seafood is on the menu primarily on weekends and there are vegetarian dishes galore. With the rice crepes and other corn-and wheat-free options, Curry Leaves is an excellent spot for those who prefer to dine gluten free. The buffet offers at least 10 options a
Brunch at the ‘Bridge
Served 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Sundays
All egg dishes are served with toast and breakfast potatoes. Egg Whites available
Date Night Every Thursday – $25 Pre Fixe Menu 1/2 Price Appetizers – Monday – Friday 4pm – 7 pm (Bar only) Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner Open Dailyand for Bloody Lunch Mary & Dinner Brunch Menu Offered Every Sunday 11:00 am – 1:00 pm • Bottomless Mimosa Bar
Party atBrunch the Bridge / AllEvery Patios Now / Weekend Entertainment / Brick Oven Pizza Menu Offered Sunday 11:00Open am – 1:00 pm • Bottomless Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar
50 Party Daniel Milford 203-874-7947 www.stonebridgerestaurant.com at Street, the Bridge / All Patios Now Open / Weekend Entertainment / Brick Oven Pizza 50 Daniel Street, Milford 203-874-7947 www.stonebridgerestaurant.com
2015 • Milford Living 41
milford morsels day with different dishes presented daily,
Leaves really knows its way
enough to satisfy yourself with a very
around a mango.
decorative platter of appetizers, entrees,
The Milford location is
and desserts.
the third Curry Leaves,
Oh, yes, the desserts. There is regular ice
joining restaurants
cream and Ras Malai, homemade cream
in Hamden and West
cheese patties served in a sweet cream sauce,
Hartford. Restaurant
delicately flavored with cardamom and
manager Thapa said they
pistachios. But the creme de la creme was
chose Milford because
the Mango Kulfi, an amazing concoction that
of the lack of Indian
looks like squares of frozen mango but melts
restaurants in the area
in your mouth with flavors of cardamon and
and so guests can enjoy
cinnamon. Ice cream wishes it tasted this
the best of both Southern
decadent.
and Northern Indian food
Lest we forget, the velvety mango and yogurt
without ever having to
shake is a cool, delicious dessert-like drink that
leave Connecticut.
will take the edge off the spiciest foods. Curry
Serving up slices since 1986 7 days without Papa’s makes 1 weak!
I & II Classic Napolitana Apizza Baked in Fire Brick Ovens Original Family Recipe
203.874.0215
Papa’s I - 258 Naugatuck Avenue
203.283.5433
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www.papaspizzaonline.com
42 Milford Living • Autumn
—Christine Rose
Costa
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Celebrate the season with Connecticut Living’s Holiday Guide. There is something very special about the holiday season in Connecticut. New England charm abounds as towns deck their halls to welcome visitors for holiday festivities. With so much to see and do- we want to share with you the best of the holiday season. Look for our holiday guide to help keep you up-to-date on what is going on in our hometown or discover a fun new event in a village nearby.
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Published by Red Mat Publishing, publishers of Milford Living.
family time
Walks and Talks
Graham. Fortunately, Milford offers an abundance of free opportunities to encourage talking among families: the city’s walking paths, trails, and parks. Spending time walking and talking allows family members to share the day’s successes and struggles, building that safe haven Diamond-Graham mentioned. “Milford’s Favorite Walks,” is a beautiful free publication from the Milford Recreation Dept. that includes more than 20 walk suggestions, maps, and commentary. The publication is available in limited print quantities and can readily be downloaded online at www.MilfordRecreation.com (click on the Documents Center on the left and then on Publication: Milford Favorite Walks). “Walking is a good form of exercise for anyone, anywhere, anytime,” said Paul Piscitelli, director of recreation for the city. “Thirty minutes of walking can help improve
T
echnological devices are the Jekyll and Hyde of our millennium. How wonderful they are for researching topics, sharing advances in professional fields, and keeping in touch with distant family members. But wow are they terrible for encouraging social interaction, playing outdoors, or face-to-face conversations!
amount of time children spend in front a
ing on in your family. Email and text messages don’t allow for that.” Parents often spend time on their smart-
screen: be it a TV, a computer, tablet, or
phones while in the company of their children,
smartphone. However, the reality is that fam-
according to a limited study conducted by
ily therapists and pediatricians are beginning
Boston Medical Center published earlier this
to get concerned about the amount of time
year. Of the 55 families observed during a meal
parents spend in front of a screen instead of
in a fast food restaurant, 48 parents referred to
interacting with their children.
their phones instead of engaging in conversa-
“The most important thing you can do as a family is talk about what’s going on in your
tion. “In this busy world, we lose touch with the
lives,” said Lisa Diamond-Graham, executive
importance of communication within the
director at the Department of Human Services
family. Our family needs to be our safe haven
and Milford Youth and Family Services. “It’s
and communicating with each other is the
the only way to know emotionally what is go-
way to create that safe haven,” said Diamond-
44 Milford Living • Autumn
walk.” Which walk is Piscitelli’s favorite? “I
SHERRY JOHYNSON (3)
Many parents and grandparents today would say they are concerned about the
your health and Milford has a lot of places to
like to walk from Fort Trumbull Beach to the Silver Sands boardwalk,” he said. But what will you talk about with your
“It really doesn’t matter what you talk about as long as you’re
family? Diamond-Graham suggests the
talking,” said Diamond-
following:
Graham. “Sometimes parents think their kids
• Ask questions about their friends, favorite things to do, sports interests, or hobbies. • Share about yourself. Tell your children
don’t care, but they do.” She also recommends using the time to talk
and state, private owners, and land trusts
about your favorite place in your home-
about things that are worrying you as a
for recreation, protection of wildlife, and
town; what you did as a kid in your spare
parent, like what a teen might think about
potential future development. “What’s im-
time; your favorite Christmas memory or
drug use, suicide, or relationships.
portant is that people get out and enjoy this
your favorite childhood book.
Take those conversation starters and
city; that they break from the distractions of
explore! According to Steve Johnson, Mil-
electronics and explore their neighborhoods
answer. For example, what was your most
ford’s open space and natural resource agent,
or one of the parks or walking trails here,”
embarrassing moment?
there are more than 3,000 acres in Milford
said Johnson.
considered open space and used by the city
• Ask one question that everyone has to
To aid in that quest, Johnson has contrib-
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family time uted his list of the top 5 walking paths and trails in all parts of the city.
1
The Connecticut Audubon Coastal Center at the mouth of the Housatonic River.
“This area deserves a larger appreciation and awareness among residents. You can walk out to the Sound or enjoy the viewing deck in the marshes among other things,” Johnson
“Milford Favorite Walks” brochure.
4
The trails in Eisenhower Park. “There are eight miles of trails here and special
events like ‘The Owl Prowl’ are offered throughout the year,” said Johnson.
5
The trails of Mondo Pond, located behind John F. Kennedy School, between West
and Naugatuck Avenues. “This is the top spot to see fall’s migratory birds,” said Johnson.
said. This site is listed as number one in the
2 3
Remember, whether you’re exploring the
The shoreline along the Walnut Beach/
shore or just taking a walk around the block,
Silver Sands Boardwalk. “This is now a
the point is to use the opportunity to recon-
destination point for many,” Johnson said. The trails in Wilcox Park, located behind Milford Public Library, in the harbor
area. There are maps and trails shown in the
nect children (and parents) and get away from anything that needs to be plugged in. Enjoy your time together. —Angela Arpino
Bring out your best smile
Philip A. Caporusso D.M.D. 874-5400 One Golden Hill Street, Milford Flexible Financial Plans Available
46 Milford Living • Autumn
SHERRY JOHNSON
“Milford’s Favorite Walks” publication.
#
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is for Living Spring
Milford Living Magazine
2014
P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460 (203)283-5290 www.milfordliving.com
education notebook
Creating a Study Space
not options and you must rely on an area that serves multiple purposes, be prepared to clear away all the clutter at homework time so your student can spread out his materials. Portable storage, like a cart on wheels, works perfectly in situations such as this to keep supplies handy and all in one place. Next, consider the environment. The notion of being able to multi-task is a myth. Eliminate distractions such as TV, mobile phones, and social media sites as much as possible. If your home is small and your child needs total silence to study, you may want to invest in a set of noise-cancelling headphones. Or consider using “white noise” such as rain or forest sounds or non-lyrical soft music to block the distractions. App stores on iTunes and Google Play offer plenty of ideas. Many experts think color and scent can also play an important role in a child’s learning. Studies have shown that younger children benefit from soft, warm colors such as oranges and yellows, while older children do better
T
he beginning of a new school year is the perfect time to re-evaluate the study areas available for the students living in your home. Whether you have ample space or are in need of compact alternatives there are some basic things you will want to consider. First, give some thought to where the study space should be. In some regards, this depends
family hub may be suitable. If space in your home is at a
on the learning style of the student. If he needs
premium, be creative. An alcove, a
peace and quiet, find an area in your home that
cozy corner, or even a large closet are areas that
around calming, cool colors like blues and
is relatively free of noise and distractions. If he
can be modified into a study space. In an older
greens. Diffusing pure essential oils into
studies better with background noise or some
home, a pantry area adjacent to the kitchen
the air can boost mood, mental clarity, and
activity around him—or if he likes to involve
might be a perfect spot. Retrofit a tall cabinet
productivity. Consider scents such as lavender,
or consult with parents during homework
or closet door with a fold-down table that can
rosemary, sage, cinnamon, lemon, and
time—an area only slightly removed from the
be tucked away when not in use. If these are
peppermint.
48 Milford Living • Autumn
Proper lighting is crucial to avoid eye strain and to help your student stay alert. Make use of natural light when possible. A desk lamp that can focus directly on the workspace is helpful, supplemented by an overhead source that casts light broadly over the study area. The goal is to ensure your child can clearly see what he is working on without squinting. Now the fun starts. It’s time to outfit the study space! The need for some type of work surface and something to sit on is a given.
back against the chair back. Knees should be
while sitting on the chair. Elbows should
The relationship between your child, the
close to or at a ninety degree angle. The chair
rest easily on the surface without having to
height of the desk or table top, and the chair
should be comfortable, but not so comfy that
hunch the shoulders. If you’re using furniture
is important. If shopping for a new desk and
the student will become sleepy. Likewise,
you already have but may not be quite the
chair, experts suggest determining the proper
if your child is the antsy type, avoid a chair
right size, using a cushion to raise the seat or
chair size first. Feet should comfortably meet
with wheels! The height of the work surface
tucking a box under the student’s feet to help
the ground when the child is seated with their
should fall at the waist or slightly above
them reach the floor can work in a pinch. As
2015 • Milford Living 49
education notebook a last resort, a portable lap desk can offer an alternative to a traditional desk or tabletop. They say accessories can make the outfit. Well accessories can also make the desk! Shopping for cute pens, pencils, paper clips, magnets, sticky notes, and notebooks was a much anticipated annual event in my house. There is certainly no shortage of fun, creative tools on the market today, and this is the perfect time to find some good clearance deals. Consider different ways to keep the clutter at bay: desk and drawer organizers, cups to
chalkboard and magnetic paints. We used
Whether you shop local or online, do it
store pencils, boxes, and small crates are fun
them on the back of a bed’s solid headboard,
together so your children have some input.
options. A bulletin board to hang notes, a
which served as the “back wall” of my
When the area becomes “theirs” you may
calendar, or a motivating photo or picture can
daughter’s desk.
just find they have a new-found love of
add to the allure of the study space. Two of my favorite discoveries many years ago were
Putting together a fun, age-appropriate
homework!
space for studying can be a family affair.
—Susan Glennon
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at home
Curb Appeal I
f you’ve ever bought a home, then you know how important curb appeal is. The more inviting the exterior of a home is, the more attractive it will be to buyers, and often, the higher the price it brings. Curb appeal is important whether you are a buyer, seller, or a homeowner. An attractive home exterior can make all the difference in liking your home and feeling at peace with it the moment you arrive. As a homeowner you know there are changes that need to be made to reach your perfect look, but sometimes it’s hard to decide exactly what you want to improve upon. Here are some ideas to help.
Study, Observe, Plan
autumn replace your blooms with pumpkins
Not only should you study your home, but
Simple Changes Make a Large Impact
study others for ideas. Start a Pinterest file
Start by studying the landscape. Gardens can
accented with lights.
and pull in any images or ideas you like.
dress up any home but if they are overgrown
Set a budget for any renovation. Will you
decide whether to weed, cut back plantings
the eye into your yard. Use hearty plants
use outside help or will it all be DYI? Set a
and trees, or replace everything and start
in areas closest to street to compensate for
timeframe and make it realistic. Large ticket
over. Sometimes it is better to start with a
potential abuse by road salt, plows, and
investments like replacement windows,
clean slate. Perennial plants, herbs, and rose
other debris kicked up by tires. Consider
exterior painting, siding, fancy gutters, or a
bushes offer visual appeal and a fragrant
adding a garden gate or an arbor to your
new roof don’t have to squash your dreams
welcome. Replace patchy grass with new
landscape, maybe something homemade or
or your budget. Think to complete your
seed in the spring or fall. Consider container
repurposed for a rustic look. Alternatively, a
upgrade over a span of a few years. You will
or window box gardens; they can deliver
metal or iron gate can be paired with stone
be pleasantly surprised what a 3-5 year plan
high impact with splashes of color from both
walls for an elegant touch (and those walls
can accomplish.
the vessels and the plants they hold. Come
can be designed to include seating.) Fencing
52 Milford Living • August
and gourds; in winter use festive twigs Plants used around fencing help draw
can help maximize appeal, as can
often an affordable, durable choice as
additional lighting or a free standing
well. A house near the beach screams
mailbox. And don’t forget to include
for paths of crushed shells, but tough
a whimsical sound element like a
winter weather makes them more
fountain, rain chain, or wind chimes to
appropriate for small paths or an accent
complete the look.
to the garden.
Exposed brick on a home can mean a lot of character, but make sure any
Dress up the Entryway
cracks or imperfections are taken care
When it comes to doors,there are so
of before the brick becomes damaged.
many ways to show your personal style.
If you’re not comfortable replacing
Choices include side window panels,
the brick yourself you may want to
colors galore, and beautiful wood tones.
hire a professional. The same goes
If a replacement door doesn’t work for
for damaged walks and driveways. A
your budget this year—or you have a
wide walk—or one that bends—can
good sturdy door with style you like—
substantially up the charm factor of
paint can work wonders! Accentuate
a home. Stone, pavers, and brick are
the entryway by adding molding and
attractive, and stamped concrete is
painting in colors that accent your home.
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2015 • Milford Living 53
at home If you have front steps, keep in mind that decoration comes second to durability. A popular trend is to update the look of staircases using slate tile on steps. Adding a new house number and investing in updated lighting fixtures can make a powerful improvement. You might also want to think about adding seating to your front exterior to offer the ultimate welcome. Benches, rockers, and swings can be placed on the lawn or porch. Want to add a color
outdoor living space trend. Overwhelmed? Don’t be. Take
punch? Your seating areas are the
small steps and reclaim the front
perfect place for it. Fabrics, rugs,
area of your home and make it your
and curtains are readily available
own.
in weather-friendly fabrics for the
—Lisa Turner
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54 Milford Living • August
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senior corner
Presents with Presence A s time passes, everyone accumulates more and more stuff. Once people hit their golden years and have a few decades of living life to the fullest to their credit, they generally have just about everything they need in life––and some things they don’t––including the singing, wiggling plastic Billy Bass plaque in the den. So when birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays roll around, what do you get Grandma? Does Grandpa really need another baseball cap? How about getting something that makes life a little easier? Or even more fun!
the house with a bag of groceries. Replacing door hardware requires a screwdriver and a bit of time, but the upgrade will be valued not only for ease of use, but for the time taken to make it happen. Since living life on a budget can often make splurging on an evening out seem impractical, a gift card to a favorite restaurant makes for
Practical gifts are more appreciated than
clock, only including the days of the week––is
a fun night out without feeling guilty about
you might think. Just because a gift isn’t flashy
another idea. (Let’s face it, being retired and
indulging in a decadent feast. Gift cards for
doesn’t mean it doesn’t pass muster. Since
not punching a clock can make the days seem
supermarkets are great gifts and always
arms can’t get any longer and it’s always nice
to run together.) There are hundreds of online
appreciated since thrifty seniors often forgo
to get a quick read on things without fumbling
selections offering snazzy, yet practical décor.
culinary treats in an effort to keep their
for glasses, large, lit magnifiers are a great
Another idea is to offer your time, as well
checking accounts in the black. Gift certificates
idea. They are made for ease-of-use and really
as a helpful gift. Buying door levers to replace
to hairdressers and barbers are another
make text easier to read. Clocks and watches
round knobs may be very welcome for those
favorite. Kitchen gadgets with comfy grips are
with large numbers are also a good bet. A
with stiff joints. It updates and spiffs up the
handy as well, and odds are that can opener
day clock––same principal as the standard
same old door while making it easier to get in
from 1965 is due for an upgrade.
56 Milford Living • Autumn
Can’t settle on just one thing? Make a
keep in touch with family and friends and
cherished wedding pics. Milford Photo has a
custom gift basket. Include favorite items
most seniors, once shown the way, have no
website (www.milfordphoto.com) to easily
of the recipient like cosmetics, cushy
problem following your lead. Sharing images
upload and your print your pics and pick-up
new insoles, fancy chocolates, magazine
and the latest news of Mary’s soccer game
is simple. Select a frame to compliment
subscriptions, or new slippers. Personalizing
keeps them in the loop so they can cheer on
the image and the home décor and voila!
a present is a fun way to make anyone feel
the team. Online calendars make it easy to
Also, any picture can be printed on mugs,
extra special, so slip in a framed picture of
keep track of appointments, lunch dates,
calendars, and more. You can create a truly
you and your loved one and make sure they
birthdays, and anniversaries and share them
personal gift that offers a smile every day.
put it in a prominent place!
among the family.
Technology may not be the first thing you
A picture is worth a thousand words. In
Remember, it’s the thought that counts. Grandiose gifts may be fun to give, but
think of as a gift for a senior, but the evolution
this age of digital imagery, a photograph
often it’s the small things can make all
of the user interface has made using gadgets
that is actually printed out is becoming
the difference. As Charles Dudley Warner
a snap. Taking the time to share your abilities
somewhat of a rarity. A candid shot of Jimmy
said, “The excellence of a gift lies in its
to get them started is a gift in itself. Tablets,
in the sandbox can brighten anyone’s day
appropriateness rather than in its value.”
laptops and smartphones are great ways to
and be displayed on the mantle along with
––Susan Carroll-Dwyer
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2015 • Milford Living 57
election connection held in even numbered years. Presidential elections occur in even numbered years that are divisible by 4, so the next one will take place in November 2016.
Where to Vote All registered voters are assigned to specific polling locations where they may cast their ballots. If you aren’t sure where your polling place is, the Secretary of State’s Office has provided Connecticut residents with the Voter Lookup System, an online tool for you to check your official polling location:
Navigating the Voting System V
oting season is upon us! No doubt you’ve already been bombarded with all the flyers, phone calls, newspaper articles, and TV advertisements that greet the odd numbered years when municipal elections take place. You may be a pro at wading through the vortex of red, white, and blue that envelops us each campaign season, but have you mastered the ins and outs of the voting system? Although readying yourself for the polling booth may slip your mind as you juggle the various pros and cons of choosing one candidate over another, exercising your right to vote can be a confusing task and you should ensure you’re adequately prepared for it well in advance. Hopefully this brief guide will clarify common questions for first-time voters or help more seasoned voters brush up on any details that may have slipped your mind since the last election.
When to Vote
(or city) election for positions including
First things first: when do elections take
mayor, city clerk, board of aldermen, board
place? Answering this question depends on
of education (each two-year terms) planning
the type of position being filled. Elections
and zoning (four-year term), and constable.
take place each year, but the types of elec-
These positions are elected in odd numbered
tions (municipal, state, federal) are staggered.
years. Municipal elections in even numbered
The upcoming Election Day takes place on
years include judge of probate (four-year
Tuesday, November 3, with voting open from
term), and registrars of voters (two-year
6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. This is a municipal
term). Certain state and federal elections are
58 Milford Living • Autumn
http://www.dir.ct.gov/sots/LookUp.aspx. Please note that some individuals vote in a different polling location depending on whether the election is municipal or state/ federal, so you may not always vote in the same place. You should also be aware that your polling location is determined by district not proximity. The 2010 Census divided
Milford into districts and you are assigned a
for an absentee ballot through the City Clerk’s
polling location based on the district in which
Office and still exercise your right to vote.
you reside. So even if you live relatively
If you’d prefer the old-school paper process, you can obtain a voter registration card by calling the Registrar of Voters’
close to a polling location it may not be your
Registering to Vote
designated place to vote
Registering to vote is an occasionally over-
it back to 70 West River Street in Milford,
looked American rite of passage. If you’re 18
and you’re good to go! If you have changed
that the 2010 Census may have slightly
years or older and haven’t registered to vote
your name, would like to change your party
altered the districts, so double check that
yet, don’t worry: the process is very simple.
affiliation, have moved to another part of
your polling location remains the same as
There are two options for registering: online
Milford, or have moved to another part of
the last time you voted. The Voter Lookup
or on paper. If you’re environmentally
Connecticut, you can also use the afore-
System is very easy to use and can clear up
conscious and would prefer to go the paper-
mentioned website or voter registration
any confusion you may have about where
less route, you can visit voterregistration.
card to update this information. The last
to vote.
ct.gov and follow the instructions. This
day to register to vote before the election
option requires a signature on file with the
is October 27. You must appear in person at
election (valid excuses include absence from
CT Department of Motor Vehicles, a current
the Registrar of Voters between 9:00 a.m.
the town during the time of the election,
valid driver’s license/or learner’s permit or
and 8:00 p.m. If you wait until Election Day
illness, and physical disability), you can apply
non-driver photo ID card issued by the DMV.
you’ll have to go to the Registrar of Voters’
If you haven’t voted in a while, be aware
If you are unable to appear in person at the
office at 203-783-3240. Fill out the card, mail
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election connection office to register before visiting your poll-
have either an ID showing your name AND
203.783.3240. Remember that just because
ing location to cast your ballot. Although
address AND photograph or present a copy
municipal elections are local, doesn’t mean
Election Day registration is an option, for
of a current utility bill, bank statement,
they’re insignificant: the people you vote to
optimal ease of voting you should try to
government check, paycheck, or government
elect will be working to solve the day-to-day
register well in advance.
document that shows your name AND ad-
issues facing Milford. That means that they
dress. If for some reason you are unable to
can affect your life on a daily basis. Young or
produce either of these requirements as a
old, your vote is essential. According to Kerri
You cannot show up at the polling booths
first-time voter, you may be able to cast a
Rowland, a Registrar of Voters responsible
empty-handed; you must be prepared with
provisional ballot. This means that if you
for voter education, “Every vote counts. We
an approved form of identification on your
believe you can legally vote, you can cast
find that the closest races happen in mu-
person. If you are on the Active Registry List,
a ballot and it will be either rejected or
nicipal years. We’ve seen races determined
you can bring either your social security card
accepted at a later date after your eligibility
by just one vote.” Be a responsible citizen by
or a valid form of ID displaying your name
has been inspected.
exercising the right to vote and making an
In-Person Voter ID Requirements
in addition to your address OR signature OR
informed decision in what could very well
photograph. The process is a little different
Now Go Vote!
if you are a first-time voter who registered
If you have further questions, don’t hesitate
by mail after January 1, 2003: you must
to call the Milford Registrar of Voters at
be a tight race tipped by your vote alone. You’ll make Uncle Sam proud! —MacKenzie Stuart
203-433-0244
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60 Milford Living • Autumn
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historical perspective
Tracing Your Milford History
I
“
f you could bring back an ancestor to talk to, who would it be and what would you ask them?” That’s a popular game genealogists play at family reunions.
But if that ancestor could be transported
celebration. Connecting to these early Milford families might be the goal for some, but in truth, they are ancestors of all of us—blood ties or not—because they shaped the world we live in today. Tracing your ancestors properly means starting with yourself and working back in time through documents, printed genealogies, diaries, land and probate
Cemetery was in 1642. At the time of the
records, and local histories. Check with your
to the here and now, what would it be like
250th anniversary of Milford, residents
family to see what is already known and with
for her or him? I imagine they would be
raised money to build the Memorial Bridge
any printed genealogies so you don’t have to
amazed and bewildered by what they would
and engrave the names and dates of the
reinvent the wheel. Often an aunt or cousin is
see. My 40-year-old self did not foresee a day
first settlers and their wives. More names
the family historian. There are also a number
when she would pump gas into her car and
were added on a monolith for the 350th
of good how-to books for beginners.
pay for it by sliding a piece of plastic into a machine. One has to think of the magnitude of the change that has happened since our ancestors lived and breathed in Milford in the 1700’s. We can’t exactly put ourselves in our ancestors’ mindset, but using historical context is important in serious research. So, what’s it like to pursue the past through genealogy? Our research goes in fits and starts. The “finds” are what keep us motivated. Once I found five generations of my family in one record. Another find was a man named Fowler Merwin Platt. We laughed at his having the three Milford surnames, but we were not at all surprised. A little over fifty families founded Milford in 1639. They were Puritans from Hertfordshire, England. Those who stayed in town intermarried, so this fellow is a Fowler, a Merwin, a Platt, and doubtless several more as well. The settlers were buried in the garden of their minister Peter Prudden without permanent markers. In those days gravestones were thought to be a vanity. The earliest burial in Milford
62 Milford Living • Autumn
Here are some basic sources for Milford:
MILFORD CEMETERY is a great place to research.
detective work you do yourself, but if you hit a
A map with a key is in a kiosk in the old
brick wall, an experienced genealogist may be
MILFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY GENEALOGY ROOM
section. Look for Morris Abbott’s book Milford
able to help you.
has genealogies of Milford families, in
Tombstone Inscriptions. The cemetery office has
particular Susan Woodruff Abbott’s Families
most of the cemetery records computerized.
of Early Milford. Also available are local
Online resources like Ancestry.com have made much of the searching easier than ever before. Census records, birth and
histories, maps, high school yearbooks, and
THE MILFORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY has some
death certificates, passenger manifests,
a surname index. You’ll also want to see
records that can be accessed by appointment,
and church records from across the globe
Donald Lines Jacobus’ Families of Ancient
but they also have many family artifacts and
are added regularly. It’s a great resource
New Haven and Families of Old Fairfield
other items that relate to the early settlers.
but does not replace good old-fashioned
because Milford families intermarried with those families.
detective work. When building your family genealogy, the difficult part is knowing how much credence
Records can turn up in unexpected places. We leave you with the “Dog Book” story.
THE LIBRARY also has city directories in print
to give a record. Even the U.S. Census was
Our friend Charles worked hard on his
or on microfilm and basic how-to genealogy
compiled by fallible humans, so there are
family tree. He read newspapers on microfilm
books.
mistakes. Much of the fun of genealogy is the
and made trips to towns where his ancestors
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historical perspective had lived. Once he was in a little town combing through vital records, land records, probate, and so forth. He was about to leave, when he saw a book down behind the safe. He asked the clerk if he could see it. “Oh,” she said, “you don’t want to see that. That’s ??????????????????
the dog book.” Charles said that if he had come all this way he wanted to be sure he had seen everything while he was there. So the clerk handed over the dog book. It was a record of which dogs had killed chickens and whether the fine had been paid. Charles’s ancestor’s name was there and the dog’s name was Elijah. Genealogy is the hobby where every answer leads to more questions. As we say, keep looking up! —Jane and Richard Platt
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E Z I R E WINTOW N ! S L A I SPEC Be a confident driver with a safe car.
10
CUT OUT AND BRING THIS COUPON FOR
repair for % Onanyanydomestic or
OFF foreign car!
QUALITY
PRE-OWNED
CARS
VISIT US AT:
autoworksofdevon.com
• General Services • Car and Truck Care • Undercar Services • Brake Service • Engine and Transmission • Engine Maintenance
Since 1993 you can rely on Autoworks Of Devon for all of your vehicle repairs and maintenance. • Transmission Services • Heating and Cooling Services • Electrical Services • Electronic Services • Front End Services • Wheel Alignment and Tires
203.877.1478
autoworksofdevon.com
409 Bridgeport Ave. Milford, CT 06460 2015 • Milford Living 65
★
GET TO KNOW OUR ★
Local Businesses Cheri’s Walk-Ins Only
Friendly Atmosphere • 23 Years Experience!
Barber Shop
• Men & Boys Haircuts $15 • Straight Razor Shaves
203-301-4999
Cheri Bourdeau - Licensed Barber/Owner Giovanni Florio - Licensed Barber
at Law
10597291
ALL MAJOR BRANDS • REMOTE STARTERS • ALL ACCESSORIES MARINE Practice•Limited Family MLaw VIDEO • NAVIgATION • CELLuLAR SATELLITEtoRADIO AND OT OR
CyCLES www.starlanderbeck.com • Knowledgeable Staff • Guaranteed Professional Installation •Committed To Quality, Service & Price • Most Of Our Customers Are Referrals
203.283.5551
401 Boston Post Rd Milford, CT 06460 Across from Cone Zone
Continuations Lobster Hut quality consignments
Over 30 Years!
LAUREL A. ELLSON Celebrating 44 Years
Attorney MOBILE ELECTRONICS CENTER
Mon-Fri: 7am-5:30pm Weds: 7am-1pm Sat: 7am-4pm
• LOBSTER ROLLS & PLATTERS • CLAMSSeasonal STRIPS & ROLLS Clothing • Jewelry Housewares Accessories Hot&Dogs • Fries
LAEllson@optonline.net
203-877-4651 31 Cherry St., Milford, CT 06460
Rings Mon-Sat 10-5 60Onion Access Road, Merchant’s Walk Thurs till 8 Stratford, 06615 826 Bridgeport Ave.,Ct. Milford Call for consignment hoursLocated across from Stop & Shop 203-377-5916 • 203-631-2162
730 Boston Post Road – Rt. 1, Milford, Ct 06460
www.EllsonLaw.com
(Exit 39A From I-95)
Celebrating 40 Years
MOBILE ELECTRONICS CENTER
354 New Haven Avenue Milford, CT 06460 203-874-6464 p/f
specialtywood@optimum.net Cabinetry and Millwork
David Bacchiocchi, Owner 66 Milford Living • Autumn
Find us on
ALL MAJOR BRANDS • REMOTE STARTERS • ALL ACCESSORIES gIFT VIDEO • NAVIgATION • CELLuLAR • SATELLITE RADIO CER
10597291
Specialty Woodworks and Design, LLC
T
IFICATE S www.starlanderbeck.com • Knowledgeable Staff • Guaranteed Professional Installation •Committed To Quality, Service & Price • Most Of Our Customers Are Referrals
203-877-4651
730 Boston Post Road – Rt. 1, Milford, Ct 06460 (Exit 39A From I-95)
Alterations By Eugenia
WE TREaT YoU LikE FamiLY Call Us For a FREE Quote
CLOTHING & FURS
Christine Turiano - President
203.713.8668
www.barthinsurance.com
Phone (203) 878-3181 • Fax (203) 874-5608
www.alterationsbyeugenia.com
120 Boston Post Road, Milford CT 06460 One Stop Laundromat & Dry Cleaners
THE CLOTHESLINE COATS & COMFORTERS SPECIAL!
COIN-OP LAUNDRY DRY CLEANING WASH DRY & FOLD COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY
100P Lansdale Avenue • Milford, CT 06460 email: chris@barthinsurance.com
The Best TheinBest The Toys!Best in Toys! in Toys!
Voted “Best toy stores” - Ct Magazine!
203-799-1301 203-799-1301 203-799-
Bestys! in to
1647 Whitney 1647Ave Whitney 1647 Whi Av Hamden, CT Hamden, Hamden, CT
203-230-2840 203-230-2840 203-230
1 COMFORTER REGULAR PRICE - ALL ADDITIONAL COMFORTERS 1/2 PRICE!
63 Broadway, Milford CT
Across from Costa Azzura Restaurant
theclotheslinelaundromat.com
203-877-9274
FREE PICK-UP
203-877-9274
Commercial Accounts Welcome!
185 Boston185 PostBoston Rd185 Post Boston Rd Orange, CTOrange,Orange, CT C
OPEN 7 DAYS OPEN 7OPEN DAYS 7 DAYS Follow us on Follow Facebook usFollow on Facebook us on Facebook
1100 Village 1100 Walk Village 1100 Villa Wal Guilford, CT Guilford, Guilford, CT
203-453-8560 203-453-8560 203-453
Prompt professional service
100 Lansdale Ave. • Milford Open 7 Days A Week
Mon - Thurs 10:30 am - 10:30 pm Fri - Sat 10:30 am - 11:00 pm Sunday 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm Minimum Delivery $9.00
PICK-UP SPECIAL Large Cheese Pizza
$7.54
Topping $2.10 Mon-Wed
Order Online @ www.honeyspotpizzamilford.com
Now We Deliver in Stratford East Main Street Area, Orange Line & Woodmont Area Allow more time for delivery $15 Minimum - Limited Area
WE PUMP YOUR GAS FOR YOU
AT SELF SERVICE PRICES Tony Russo
FULL SERVICE REPAIR & MAINTENANCE CARS - SUVS - TRUCkS
203-877-3556
684 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT 06460
SB Painting LLC
Your Full Service Painting Company! Quality • Neat • Dependable • Interiors • Exteriors
203-892-3379 or 203-301-4619
NO JOB TOO SMALL! Betty Ettinger, Owner Milford, CT
sbpaintingllcjobs@gmail.com
(At junction of Merrit Parkway ramps)
2015 • Milford Living 67
m o c h b c a e B Cafe er
est. 1929
Dart League • Pool
HOURS:
Saturday - Sunday: 11am - Closing Monday - Friday: 3pm - Closing
Band Every Friday Night
• Dance Floor • Amusements • Drink Specials!
92 Melba Street, Milford
203-877-2212
Milford’s Trusted Housecleaning Services since 2005
Wildemere Beach Congregational Church Rev. Kenneth Fellenbaum Pastor
133 East Broadway Milford, CT 06460 203-874-9289 Sunday Worship 10:00am Wednesday Bible Study 7:15pm
Christmas Bazaar December 5th
Justice of the Peace Suzanne Cahill Wedding Officiant, Connecticut 203.650.9659 Your special day...your special way!
(203) 647-0383 • www.bellehome.net 876 Boston Post Road 203-202-9533 Hours of operation: Mon-fri 4am-6pm Sat 4am-4pm
Fa m i ly & p o r t r a i t photography
6 masteR BaRBeRs Serving Milford for 46 years
All kinds of haircuts from traditional to modern - Short to long hair Beard styling In business since 1969!
White Tail Contracting & Painting, LLC Commercial and Residential • Remodeling • Property Maintenance • Painting Interior/Exterior
Licensed & Insured #HIC 0635917
“Building Relationships One Home at a Time” whitetailcp@hotmail.com Lou: 203.278.3805 Mark: 203.802.9220 Office: 203.513.8339 68 Milford Living • Autumn
BE SEEN! 203.650.0383
www.sherrylynnphotography.com sherrylynnFoto@gmail.com
203.283.5290
Call us to reserve your space for the next issue
We are a professional full line tree service company with twenty years experience with Counties. We take pride in our expertise of tree quality services at a fair price and we stand behind our work 100%.
Tree Experts and Stump Grinding Specialists Commercial & Residential 20 Years Experience
We specialize in: Tree Removal, Land Clearing, Storm Damage, Tree Trimming, Bucket Truck Service, Tree Pruning, Chipper Service, Hazardous Tree Removal, Crane Removal Free delivery of organic material
We’ll beat any out of town tree quote up to 15% Must have comp and liability insurance
Seasoned Firewood Available
Call and let us examine your property now. Autumn Specials Call
203-305-2584
Free Estimates!
1-877-90C-HOMP Located in Milford Oronoque Road
Jeff Dalton, Owner maddbeavertree@yahoo.com
Est. 1978
C&G GULF C&G GULF SERVICE Gaetano & mary Vitti (owners)
FULL SERVICE AUTO REPAIR
Auto Sales
QUality Used cars
for sale
Foreign & Domestic All CARS Sold with Warranty
VieW inVentory ONLINE
free car faX!
Foreign & Domestic
Let us get your vehicle ready for the upcoming season!
Take advantage of our
10% OFF On Any REPAIR
www.cggulf.com
click used cars Or Call Guy at 203-874-2893
Foreign or Domestic
We offer eXtended Warranties
Full Service Center Foreign and Domestic Cars Experienced Mechanic Always on Duty
Gasoline • lottery • snacks ciGarettes and more 495 Boston Post Rd . Milford, CT.
203-874-2893
Gaetano & mary Vitti (owners)
Corner of High St across from Xpect
Download SERVICE Discount COUPONS @ www.cggulf.com
Tires • Flush & Fill Cooling sysTems • Brakes sTruTs / shoCks • muCh more! GaSoLInE - SnaCk SHoP - LottERy & moRE Quality Used Cars
Boston Post Rd & High St 203-874-2893
Since 1978
Download Coupons at www.cggulf.com 2015 • Milford Living 69
expressions
Summer Memories
Four of our grandkids, Sarah, Jack, Sam, and Nick Russo, abandoning ship , our boat The Al dente, in the lee of Charles Island on a beautiful day. By Al & Brenda Russo
70 Milford Living • Autumn
congratulations
C
ongratulations to all those who participated in the annual Kids’ Snapper Derby on September 12, at Lisman Landing Marina. The 2015 winning anglers are: 3rd Place (10.1 oz), Josephine Simon; 2nd Place (11.7 oz), Jack Friedman; and 1st Place (12.45 oz),Will Friedman.
2015 • Milford Living 71
?
where is it?
Answer to last issue’s quiz: The lighthouse at the City of Milford Boat Launch.
Do you know the answer to this issue’s Where is It? Send us your answer at: info@milfordliving.com
Want your very own Milford Living t-shirt?
Send your answer to this issue’s Where is It? (along with your name and address) to: info@milfordliving.com. Two lucky winners will be chosen at random.
Law Offices of Christopher B. Carveth, LLC Christopher B. Carveth & Kristin Dorney Foley Attorneys & Counselors at Law
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Carveth & Foley
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Attorneys at Law
• �a��l�� �r��a�e � �r����al • real es�a�e a�� ������ la�
Tel. 203-882-7244 | Fax. 203-877-3970 |P.O. Box 152 | 26 Cherry Street Milford CT 06460
Christopher B. Carveth & Kristin D. Foley Law Offices Of Christopher B. Carveth, LLC We offer extended hours, home consultations and weekend appointments to best serve you.
• personal injury • workers compensation • FACEBOOK AT CARVETH LAW
• family, probate & criminal • real estate and zoning law • WWW.CARVETH LAW.COM
Tel. 203-882-7244 | Fax. 203-877-3970 |P.O. Box 152 | 26 Cherry Street Milford CT 06460 72 Milford Living • Autumn
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ShopRite of Stratford
155 Cherry Street 203-882-5280
250 Barnum Ave. 203-378-4296
Your groceries are just a click away ShopRite from Home at Shoprite.com ©Wakefern Food Corporation, 2010