Autumn, 2018 Vol. 15 Issue 3 $5.99
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Feature
26
36
Downtown on the Go The community comes together to keep Downtown Milford growing. By Cindy Papish Gerber
Milford on the Map In this day of Google maps and GPS coordinates, it’s easy to forget just how valuable a printed map was not too long ago. By Ann McGuire
Departments 4 6 8 12 16 18 22 24 42 46 52 56 62 63 64
Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters This Season Milford Spotlight At your Service Family Time Milford Kids At Home Milford Morsels Historical Perspective Legends & Lore Senior Corner Expressions Congratulations Where is It?
About the cover: A tranquil view of City Hall on a picture perfect autumn day. Cover photo by JJ Richards. His photography may be experienced at: www.singingwithlight.me
2018 • Milford Living 1
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AUTUMN 2018 VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 3 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill Suzanne@milfordliving.com
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Art Director Ryan Swanson
Associate Publisher Susan Carroll-Dwyer
Advertising Director Joy Haines
Account Executive Mary Jo Downs
Contributing Photographers
Bill Canfield, Robert Creigh, Anna Downs, Steven Franko, Derek Jones, Ann McGuire, JJ Richards, Ed Steinerts
Contributing Editors
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Susan Carroll Dwyer, Megan Conway, Alyssa Davanzo, Susan Glennon, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Ann McGuire, Gerry McGuire, Cindy Papish Gerber, Makayala Silva, Patrick Torres, Charles Wetmore
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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. $23.96. Newsstand: $5.99. 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 2003-2018 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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publisher’s letter Dear Friends & Neighbors, This year Milford Living celebrates its 15th anniversary! During this season of abundance and thanksgiving, we want to thank all our readers for their continued support of both Milford Living and the Milford community. To the many advertisers that continue to support our work and our readership, our heartfelt thanks. Thank you as well to our magazine staff and contributors, both current and former, for all the time and talent it takes to create each issue and
Call for a personal tour today! St. Mary School has been educating the mind, body and souls of children for over 57 years.
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bring you the best of Milford. Together we look forward to providing many future issues of Milford Living for years to come. We hope you enjoy this issue and share it with your family, friends, and co-workers. We’re taking annual holiday gift subscription orders, and you’ll find the subscription card inside this issue to complete and send our way. Please be sure to get your holiday orders in early to ensure your gift recipient receives a gift card in time for the holiday. As always, we welcome your comments, stories, and suggestions. We look forward to hearing from you. May the good things in life be yours in abundance this Thanksgiving season.
Best Wishes—
—James Maroney VOTE JAMES MARONEY FOR STATE SENATE
ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6TH MARONEYFORUS.COM Paid for by Friends of James Maroney. Paul Davis, Treasurer. Approved by James Maroney.
4 Milford Living • Autumn
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readers’ letters Please adopt payments by credit cards or online method! Love the magazine, HATE paying by check! —Stephen Girard Thanks for subscribing to Milford Living and letting us know your feelings! We can now process new and renewal subscriptions online at www.milfordliving.com/subscribe MA IL
ED
BY FR EE P
IK
I wish you would do more “behind the stones” (tombstones) stories of people. —Deborah Crofford
T EA CR
How about an article on innovative educational programs in the Milford school systems? —Mrs. K. Abbott
Love all the photos. Please do more on Woodmont history. Check out the memorial bricks at the new borough hall (old Firehouse #5). —Martha Melville How about an article on Seabreeze School? My late wife was the first class to go all the way through it (K to 8)! I was the second. —Robert Murray Thank you for all of these wonderful article suggestions. Our editorial staff will consider each of these topics and work with our writers over the course of the next few issues to see how many we can accommodate. Keep the great ideas coming!
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
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this season
Rooting for Root Veggies
F
all is the perfect season to enjoy the sweet yet savory flavors of root vegetables. Packed with vitamins and nutrients, these tasty veggies perfectly accompany the transition of the steamy heat of summer into the mild chill of the autumn season. They serve as great comfort food, while supplying healthy vitamins and minerals to our bodies. Examples of these types of veggies include sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips, beets, radishes, leeks, and more. Most of the vegetables in this food group
Susan’s Rosemary Roasted Beets INGREDIENTS: 4 fresh beets 3 fresh rosemary sprigs Dash of sea salt Olive oil spray
and other minerals, it is important to include
are root or root-like structures. They grow
them as a part of a healthy balanced diet as they
underground and absorb the nutrients in the soil
also are high in starches (hello potatoes!).
to supply to the above ground vegetation. This
Our Milford Living staff shares some of
biology is what makes them so full of nutrients
their favorite root vegetable recipes for you to
and thus extremely beneficial for us to eat. While
enjoy.
they contain antioxidants, vitamin A, calcium,
Trim ends off the beets. Peel if desired (I prefer the skin on). Cut the beets to desired size (smaller pieces will cook faster). Spray a glass baking dish with olive oil spray and place beet pieces into the dish. Strip two sprigs of fresh rosemary, chop, and drop needles over the beets. Add sea salt as desired. Spray with olive oil spray and stir. Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes. Garnish with a couple of cut up fresh sprigs of rosemary. Healthy, tasty, and easy! Makes 4 servings.
—Megan Conway
Suzanne’s In-A-Jiffy Carrot Cake 11/2 3/4 3/4 1/4
cups sifted flour cup granulated sugar cup brown sugar tsp. salt
/ 2 3/4 14
tsp. cinnamon tsp. baking powder Dash of nutmeg cup of milk
1 1/4 2 3
tsp. vanilla cup of butter eggs well beaten cups grated carrots (5 peeled carrots)
Sift all dry ingredients together. Combine remaining ingredients and add to the dry mix. Beat with a mixer for two minutes or with a whisk for 4 minutes. Pour all ingredients into a greased 8 x 8 x 2 cake pan. Bake at 350 F for 35 minutes. Cool pan for 15 minutes. Turn out onto serving plate and sprinkle with powdered sugar. (Double up ingredients for a double delish cake!) 8 Milford Living • Autumn
Maryjo’s Candied Yams INGREDIENTS: 6 sweet potatoes 1 cup orange juice 3 tbsp. brown sugar 2 tbsp. white sugar 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tbsp. butter
ANNA DOWNS
Slice sweet potatoes and place in baking dish. Sprinkle sugars over sweet potatoes, add cinnamon, add butter, and pour orange juice over the yams. Cover this dish with aluminum foil and bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes. Makes 4 servings.
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this season Ann’s Overstuffed Twice-Baked Potatoes INGREDIENTS: 5 large baking potatoes 1 tbsp. olive oil 11/2 tsp salt
/ 8 1 12
tsp. ground pepper slices cooked, chopped bacon cup sour cream
Rub your potatoes with olive oil and bake at 350 F for about an hour. Or if you’re lazy like me,
11/2 1/2 4
cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese cup milk tbsp. butter
microwave all five for 15 minutes (about 3 minutes each). Make sure you use a fork to poke a few holes in them first, so they don’t explode (messy!) Meanwhile cook and prep your bacon. Cool spuds for about 10 minutes before peeling one potato (discard peel) and placing pulp in a mixing bowl. Cut the top quarter lengthwise off the remaining 4 potatoes and scoop the pulp out into the mixing bowl, making sure you leave about a 1/4 inch layer.
OPTIONAL: 1/4 cup green onion, chives, jalapeno
To the pulp add salt, pepper, sour cream, butter, optional ingredients, bacon, and cheese (reserve a bit of the last three for topping), and slowly mix with hand mixer. Add milk until you reach your desired consistency (not too runny). Scoop pulp back into potato shells and place on baking sheet. Top with remaining cheese, bacon, and options. Bake for 15 minutes at 350. Make 4 servings.
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milford spotlight The Milford home of Doris E. Gagnon, AKA “The Chicken Lady,” before it was demolished to make way for Silver Sands State Park. could need were available to rent. Area newspapers posted ads casting extras for $2.50 a day. On December 13th 1915, a film crew, actors, hundreds of extras, and a menagerie of circus animals hit the beach at Smith’s Point to film a desert battle scene. Careful to avoid filming the Long Island sound, the director trained the cameras on the beach and called for action. A great battle
Strange but True
E
ensued and the beach was littered with bodies. There was only one problem; it was freezing and most of the actors were wearing gloves. After realizing the error, the director yelled,
very town has one or two tall tales or ghost stories that get passed down through the
“Who the hell ever wore gloves on a broiling
generations, tales of oddities told around campfires or whispered at slumber parties.
desert?” The whole scene had to be reshot.
There is always a haunted house, an odd occurrence, or strange happening that
After the battle scene the director also noted
becomes part of a town’s handed-down lore. As one of the original 13 American colonies, Con-
that the close ups of lead actor Robert Edison
necticut had a head start on most of the nation and is particularly rich in odd occurrences and
were being ruined by his frozen breath. “Mr.
local lore. And Milford, as one of the oldest towns in Connecticut and the country, is particularly
Edison you must hold your breath!” In fact,
rich in local legends and weird history. While we have our fair share of ghostly tales, there are
the entire cast was told to hold their breath
also many stories less phantasmal in nature—
whenever the camera was on them. Luckily,
stories that reside outside the mundane and
all filming was completed that day because a
get filed under the category: Strange But True.
major blizzard hit Milford that very night. The
The Milford Desert Imagine you’re looking to make a film based on a Rudyard Kipling novel set in the North
movie, The Light that Failed, was released in October 1916, but has been lost in the sands of time. No copies are known to exist.
African desert. You’re going to need camels,
Home by the Sea
Arabian horses, and of course, a desert. What
In 1971, the state of Connecticut initiated
better place to replicate the burning hot, arid
eminent domain to demolish over one hundred
Saharan wasteland than Milford, Connecticut?
houses to make way for Silver Sands State Park.
In its infancy, the film industry had yet to
All the residents took the compensation for their
move to Hollywood and budgets were low. To
homes and moved on…except for one. This is
replicate a desert, all you needed was sand,
where the legend of Doris E. Gagnon, AKA “The
and Smith’s Point had plenty of that. But
Chicken Lady” was born. Instead of finding a
where to find camels and Arabian horses?
new home with the $15,000 the state offered her,
Simple. With P.T. Barnum wintering his circus
the 4’11” widow refused the money and moved
in Bridgeport, all the exotic animals a director
onto the beach. For the next 23 years,
12 Milford Living • Autumn
through blizzards, hurricanes, and blistering
but called her, “The sanest
heat, she refused to leave, garnering national
person alive.” Eventually,
attention and becoming a folk hero. She was
disease did what the state
arrested more than once, and the state even
and town could not. In 1994,
tried having her institutionalized, but she was
after years of cancer, Gagnon
found to be sane and she returned to the beach.
was moved into hospice
Gagnon initially moved into a tin shack, but
care where she died at the
over time her homestead and her livestock
age of 77. A group of Milford
grew. When the New York Times visited in
residents have tried to have
1989, they described her living conditions:
the boardwalk at Silver
“…She sleeps in a dilapidated 18-foot trailer home
sands named after her but
alongside two others…nearby are two makeshift
the state has denied their
plastic tents, a tin shack, and a chicken coop. She
requests, committing only to dedicating a park
is without a doubt the 14-acre piece of land off
has no phone, no running water, no mailing
bench in her name.
Silver Sands State Park called Charles Island.
address…”. Gagnon shared her home with three
Milford Yacht Club According to local lore, the island has been
dogs, five cats, five ducks, a few geese, and 50
“Not Island your grandfather’s club” The Cursed cursed, is possibly haunted, and might be
chickens. Her friends admitted she was eccentric
The Big Kahuna of Milford’s weird and wacky
home to a bit of pirate treasure. The legend
where friendship and memories ilford are made achT
The M
Y
“The waTer awaiTs”
club
Whether you’re a boater, a swimmer, or just looking for the next best spot on the water, the Milford Yacht Club is the new place for you. Membership benefits include:
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131 Trumbull Avenue 203-783-0060
www.milfordyachtclub.com 2018 • Milford Living 13
Shuffleboard Tables
milford spotlight
Pool Tables & Game Room Furniture
states that Charles Island was first cursed in the early 1600s by a Paugussett chief proclaiming, “Any shelter will crumble to the earth and he shall be cursed.” Another
Indoor & Outdoor Ping Pong Tables
notorious pirate Captain Kidd to protect some
DEREK JONES
RELA X IN ST YLE
curse is rumored to have been placed by the
Foosball Tables
of the loot he allegedly buried on the island.
Kidd was eventually arrested and hanged, so
Only a mile offshore, Charles Island is still home to many secrets untold.
if he ever did hide treasure on Charles Island,
GET YOUR GAME ON
he took knowledge of its whereabouts with
or building on the island has either failed or
at their core, the stories show the richness
him to the grave. A last curse was supposedly
been destroyed. A tobacco farm, fish fertilizer
of Milford’s history. Rod Serling might have
placed on stolen Mexican treasure allegedly
plant, monastery, hotel, and restaurant have
narrated a journey to the town thusly: “You’re
Tales of witches, pirate treasure, curses,
mind…there’s a signpost up ahead, no it’s not
GET YOUR GAME ON
363 allBoston Post come and gone. NothingRoad, stands thereOrange today traveling through another dimension, a all subsequently died. While tales203-799-2329 of curses but ruins. dimension not of sight and sound but of PorchandPatio.com spirited to the island by thieving sailors who and pirate treasure sound dubious—and no treasure has ever been found—for the past
and lost silent epics may come across as
350 years, every structure, business concern,
fantastical—and parts of the stories are—but
the twilight zone, it’s Milford, Connecticut.”
TAKE THE FUN INDOORS 363 Boston Post Road, Orange 203-799-2329 PorchandPatio.com
—Gerry McGuire
GET YOUR RELA X INGAME ST YLEON Shuffleboard Tables
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Indoor & Outdoor Ping Pong Indoor & Outdoor Ping PongTables Tables
Pool Tables & Game Room Furniture
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Enclosures, Screens & Tools
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at your service
Kisses from Katies provides a variety of much needed services for families.
Kisses from Katie
F
ew parents can imagine anything more devastating than losing a child. Taking that sorrow and turning it into action as a way of honoring the life of their child has been the driving force behind Kisses from Katie, a Milford-based non-
profit founded by Alan and Vickie Manning. The organization draws its name from their
critically ill children, but also hospital caregiv-
daughter, Katie Manning, a vibrant baby girl who was diagnosed with a congenital heart
ers. Each program was born out of first-hand
defect known as Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) when she was just 3 days old.
experience and designed to ease a specific stressor that should be avoided. They include
Though Katie’s life was mostly spent in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Yale New Haven Hospital, there was no lack of love, happiness, or joy from the family and community that sur-
ICU unit, and the strain it can put on a parent’s
“Roaming Resources” to ensure parents
well-being.
have access to laptop computers for research
The organization developed eight programs that focus on helping not only the parents of
while at their child’s side; flash drives loaded with crucial, portable, medical information; transilluminators that help nurses locate the
months in and out of the hospital, Katie lost
tiny veins in small limbs for IV insertions; free
her battle with HLHS. Her devastated parents
parking passes; and grants for CICU nurses to
decided the best way to honor her life was to
attend educational and motivational confer-
COURTESY OF KISSES FROM KATIE (5)
rounded her. On November 9, 2009, after seven
ease the pain of others suffering through similar circumstances. Kisses from Katie does just that by providing “resources to critically ill children, their families, and the people who are dedicated to caring for them.” Dealing with an almost overwhelming amount of time spent at the hospital, the Man-
ences. By alleviating just a few of the burdens brought on by having a sick child, parents are able to shake-off a tiny bit of the overwhelming stress, and given the opportunity to focus solely on their child. Since its inception in 2009, Kisses from Katie has grown to provide services for five
nings knew better than anyone the stress and
Alan and Vickie Manning founded Kisses
hospitals in four states: Yale New Haven
difficulties of dealing with a child in a pediatric
from Katie in memory of their daughter.
Children’s Hospital and Bridgeport Hospital
16 Milford Living • Autumn
The “Stuff a Cruiser “ Toy Drive is a great way for the community to get involved and make a kid’s day. here in Connecticut, Baystate Hospital in Mas-
tion’s numerous
sachusetts, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
programs. Tickets
in Pennsylvania, and Maria Fareri Children’s
are $60.00 each and
Hospital in New York. “Taking the edge off,”
sponsorship packages
as the Mannings like to say, might seem like
are available.
a small thing, but they know first-hand that it
Katie Manning would have turned 10 this year. What better way to celebrate her life than to ease the suffering and anxiety of others. As Alan Man-
A few weeks later, on
ning says, “I know that I cannot prevent
can make a significant difference in both the
December 8-9, the 10th annual “Stuff a
pain and illness for other children, nor can I
lives of the child and the parents.
Cruiser” Toy Drive, held in conjunction with
change the feeling of isolation and ineptness
the Milford Police Department, will take place
that parents will invariably feel. However, I can
Katie celebrates it’s 10th annual “A Night to
at the CT Post Mall, inside the Target entrance.
do little things to make it easier…better…all the
Remember” fundraiser. The event will be held
New, unwrapped toys for children (infants
while honoring my hero, Katie.”
on November 10th from 6:00-11:00 p.m. at
through teens) are “stuffed” into the cruiser
Amarante’s Sea Cliff in New Haven and will
and eventually delivered to kids spending the
include dinner, musical entertainment, and a
holidays at Yale New Haven Children’s and
TO DONATE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit
silent auction to raise funds for the organiza-
Bridgeport Hospitals.
www.kissesfromkatie.org.
This year marks a milestone as Kisses from
—Patrick Torres
Voted 2018
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55 Old Gate Lane, Milford, CT • 203-872-5911 • SensitiveCare.net 2018 • Milford Living 17
COURTESY OF BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF MILFORD (3)
family time
The pumpkin patch has pumpkins of all sizes. Volunteers staff the patch to raise money for programs.
Spooktacular Adventures H
alloween comes around but once a year, and Milford knows how to celebrate! This year, October 31st is a Wednesday, but the frightfully fun season starts weeks before to maximize the proper mood. From a seaside Halloween parade to vibrant pumpkins displayed on the pier, Milford offers plenty of ways for the young and young at heart to fully embrace the thrills and chills of the Halloween season. So no matter what you’re in the market for, Milford has something spooktacular to offer for the whole family!
spend an autumn night under the stars. On Saturday, Pumpkins on the Pier will fill Walnut Beach with the Halloween spirit and
Pumpkins on the Pier
Pumpkins Eve on Friday night. Featuring a
impressively decorated pumpkins from 10:00
Pumpkins Eve and the 8th Annual Pumpkins
wide variety of savory and sweet food trucks,
am – 5:00 p.m. People of all ages are welcome
on the Pier Festival will bring colorful fall
local craft beer from New England Brewing
to hop on a hay ride, dance to live music, or
fun to Walnut Beach on Friday and Saturday,
Company, and a stunningly lit Walnut Beach
mosey through a pumpkin patch filled with
October 5-6. Both signature events benefit the
pier, Pumpkins Eve begins at 6:00 p.m. and
thousands ready to be picked.
Boys & Girls Club of Milford by raising funds
provides beach lovers the opportunity to
for the organization’s after-school and summer programs. “After years of success with
Trick-or-Treat BOOtacular With candy of all kinds on their
Pumpkins on the Pier, we decided
minds, children under 12 have the
to expand our event to include a
chance to fill their plastic pumpkins
fun evening for adults,” explains
and pillow cases on Halloween night
Megan Altomare, executive
at Milford’s Connecticut Post Mall.
director of the Boys & Girls Club of
During the Trick-or-Treat BOOtacu-
Milford. “Pumpkins Eve is a great
lar on Halloween, Wednesday October
time for families to relax and enjoy
31st, children and their parents can
old fashioned fun.”
stride from store to store while
The Rum Runners, one of
employees pass out goodies. Retailers
Connecticut’s most popular cover
The creation of elaborate pumpkin scenes offers a fun walk on
partaking in the event will have a sign
bands, will kick off the inaugural
the Walnut Beach pier.
at each door indicating their participa-
18 Milford Living • Autumn
tion, and additional candy and music will be provided in the center court. “We’re happy to host an event that allows for children and families to stay safe while still having a great Halloween,” says Connecticut Post Mall marketing director Kelly Frantz. “The environment is safer than
we are planning to make the event even more engaging while also driving more businesses.”
C
traffic to the stores, restaurants, and other
T MALL
potential motorists or strangers. This year
CT POS
the cold, and away from the danger of
SY OF OURTE
because the children are inside, out of
(2)
traditional outdoor trick-or-treating
The Trick or Treat BOOtacular at the CT Post Mall has kids and parents in costume making for a spooktacular event.
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N (4)
family time OCIATIO
The Mall will host a pumpkin decorating
EACH ASS
competition throughout October as well as a fall festival and pop-up shop market with
WALNU TB
face painting and the Hocus Pocus Sanderson
For trick-or-treaters craving a cold, sweet treat, Walnut Beach Creamery will throw its annual
COURTES
Walnut Beach Halloween Parade
Y OF THE
Sisters on Saturday and Sunday, October 13-14.
Walnut Beach Halloween Parade beginning at 5:00 p.m. Halloween night. “Twelve years ago when I opened up the
ery throwing down candy to the crowd.”
creamery, I wanted to find a way to wrap up
All these years later, the parade has grown
“Every year the
the summer season, so I decided to have a
into a neighborhood Halloween staple,
Walnut Beach Witch
neighborhood parade,” says Susan Patrick,
with surrounding streets closing down and
arrives at 6:00 p.m.
owner of Walnut Beach Creamery. “Back then,
businesses in the area passing out candy to
to lead kids through the neighborhood while
we had people stationed on top of the cream-
hundreds of kids.
ringing a bell to ward off the ‘bad spirits’,”
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20 Milford Living • Autumn
11-4 Tuesday-Saturday
Fun for all ages, the Halloween parade has become a local tradition. around 7:00 p.m. so it’s early enough for everyone to stop by and then go trick-or-treating.” The parade goes on rain or shine, and while supplies last, there is free homemade ice cream for those who show up in costume. “We even had the parade right after Hurricane Patrick explains.
doesn’t matter!” Patrick insists that fall does not officially begin until the Walnut Beach Halloween
Sandy,” Patrick recalls. “I remember that Hal-
Parade. “Since we’ve started, it’s been a
“There is a DJ and a flash mob featuring
loween was postponed in Milford that year for
completely positive experience and we’ve
members of the Walnut Beach Association
a week or two, and we still ended up having
loved every minute of it.”
and local business owners. The parade ends
it. We’ve had it in the rain and in the snow—it
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milford kids
Screen Time in Schools
M
ost of our children’s screen time comes from school. They seem to always be doing something on a tablet. What is a parent supposed to do? We limit video games to weekends and play time, but they seem to be glued to their devices so often. It seems too much. This is a question that I receive from
powered by the
parents all the time at my practice. The first
Connecticut
thing I would say is that screen time is not
Education Network (CEN), a system that
subject content and the use of the technology
all bad—it depends on how it is used and for
delivers reliable, high-speed internet access and
itself. Screen time for learning, which can
what purpose.
data access through a network of fiber optics.
promote discussion and collaboration between
The Milford Public School System boasts
The Milford school system is a Google district
parents, teachers, and students, often evokes
some of the most cutting-edge educational
that utilizes a variety of apps, such as Google
creativity and human interaction—very
technology available, from the elementary
Classroom, in which a vast amount of school
different from the more mindless screen time
schools through the high schools. All the school
work is conducted in a paperless manner. These
spent watching a show or playing a video
buildings have 100 percent Wi-Fi coverage. The
classes all exploit advanced technology in some
game. (Minecraft leaps to mind with my
classrooms utilize interactive whiteboards,
fashion, and they enable our students to be
children). It is that passive and non-interactive
Chromebooks, desktops, laptops, tablets, and
prepared for a connected and modern world.
screen time that seems to be less valuable
other digital devices. All this technology is
The use of technology in school teaches both
and—in excess—cause the most problems. However, even screen time that is academically warranted can create problems. Many of the health topics related to excessive electronic use are well documented. Issues such as obesity, eye strain, and sleep disturbances have been identified and are fairly well understood. Other matters, such as the connection between cognitive acquisition and brain development, are less established and still being explored. To balance the conclusive strengths that technology brings to the learning environment with health risks that are both known and still being explored, a parent should consider the following points: •
Is the time my child is spending in front of screen engaging and purposeful?
22 Milford Living • Autumn
•
Are my children joining together
different than their own, and to
with other children in focused,
become monitors of their own
face-to-face conversations without
screen time and to know when
the interruptions of digital devices for
and how to disengage from
a significant amount of time during
technology?
each school day? •
•
Of course, many of these
Do teachers play an instrumental role
questions will require a parent
in reviewing, monitoring, and guiding
to query their children’s teacher
my children’s technology use?
or at least discuss the matter
In the classroom, is technology
with their children’s school
viewed as “just one of the tools” my
websites or “fun” sites that have no
children can use to solve problems,
educational value?
not), there is a technological platform that
Are my children taught and
the Milford School District uses for that:
information?
encouraged to read deeply instead
PowerSchool. And, of course, email works, or
Does the school implement software
of simply skimming, to evaluate
even an old fashion phone call!
programs to block inappropriate
sources and consider viewpoints
answer questions, and present •
administrators. Ironically (or
•
—Charles Wetmore, APRN, CPRN
Braces are cool...but the results are cooler!
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2018 • Milford Living 23
at home first thing to do is check with the Milford Fire Department. “We have records for many properties in Milford,” says Deputy Fire Marshall Tony Fino. “Homeowners can call and check to see if we have a record for their property.” The next step is to find a local contractor to handle the abatement. You want to engage with COURTESY OF ABSOLUTE TANK REMOVAL (3)
someone familiar with local protocols on tank removal since they vary from town to town. “A while back the state offered incentives for homeowners to switch over to gas,” recounts Ed Marin, owner of Absolute Tank Removal here in town. “It kept us pretty busy as many homeowners took advantage of the offer. Below ground and above ground tanks were being removed—sometimes we were doing 40-50 per week,” he says. Once
Bubble, Bubble, Oil & Trouble
I
f your home is, shall we say, “of a certain age,” odds are that at one point in time it had (or has) an oil tank. In general, oil tanks, aside from commercial applications, are no longer installed underground. As above ground tanks are now the standard, many underground tanks lay abandoned and forgotten.
Proper removal of underground tanks helps to avoid soil contamination when holes develop. the incentives were gone, however, many homeowners stayed with oil. “The one thing about oil is you can shop around for the best price,” says Marin. “Oil also has an advantage over gas: the BTU (British Thermal Unit) of oil is 138,500 per gallon; gas offers only
As natural gas service expanded street by
on your property, you may want to consider
1,037 BTU’s per cubic foot.”
street (but still not everywhere in Milford),
having it removed. “Most lenders and
inground oil tanks became dinosaurs, left in
insurance companies don’t want to be involved
installed after World War II. The average
the ground like fossils. It wasn’t uncommon for
with a property that has an underground tank,”
lifespan of a tank is 20-30 years.” The average
inground tanks to be abandoned. Generally,
says local Realtor Bill Parry Sr. “It’s a liability for
oil tank also holds about 550 gallons. These
tanks were drained (hopefully) and filled in
them and for the property owner. Even if you’re
tanks, he says, “don’t just blow out. Leaks are
with dirt or sand. However, the Clean Water
not looking to sell your home, removing the
usually pinholes in the metal. They can be
Act of 1992 prohibited tank abandonment since
underground tank is a good idea.”
plugged or slowed by sludge at the bottom of
leaching oil can infiltrate the water supply.
So now what do you do? If you are unsure
Today, if you have an underground tank
if your property has an abandoned tank, the
24 Milford Living • Autumn
According to Marin, “Most tanks were
the tank. Leaks develop gradually over time, so it isn’t always noticed on your oil bill.”
“Depending on the location of an underground tank, it takes about half a day to remove the tank,” says Marin. “We cut the top of the tank and drill through the bottom to obtain soil samples. The samples are sent to a state-certified lab. It generally takes 4-5 days for the results. On average, about three out of 10 tanks will have leaks. It’s pretty obvious if it’s in the soil—it turns a greenish grey; easy to tell
Removing underground tanks can prevent headaches when it comes time to sell your property.
if the tank leaked. The law allows a particulate amount of oil that can be left. Different values
yards of soil to fill the void left by the average
alternative. The Milford Building Inspector’s
of contamination are allowed depending on the
tank. A Closure Report is then issued—a
office can provide information on obtaining
location to ground water. Soil is excavated to
one-page letter of the 100% disclosure giving
permits for a new tank. Removal of an
remove any contamination.”
homeowners documented proof the tank is no
underground tank can save you money in
longer an issue.”
the long run, your insurance company will be
As for cost, “underground tank removal is between $1,200 to $1,500 providing it is accessible and not leaking. It takes about four
If it isn’t in your budget to change over to a gas furnace, above ground tanks are an
happy, and so will the environment! —Susan Carroll Dwyer
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26 Milford Living • Autumn
The community comes together to keep Downtown Milford growing
BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER
2018 • Milford Living 27
JJ RICHARDS
DOWNTOWN ON THE GO
I
Moll never tires of, “watching
as a pharmacy and a business,
the hustle and bustle of everyone
Milford continues to grow, with
converging on the restaurants
a younger demographic moving
and night spots or scurrying to
into all sections,” Panatela
their car,” after an event on the
observes.
Green. “As someone who has
Key to the continued growth
always lived within a half mile of
and success of the area is the
Downtown Milford, you couldn’t
Downtown Milford Business
ask for a more exciting, diverse,
Association (DMBA), an organiza-
and fun spot.”
tion dedicated to bringing atten-
“Milford is blessed with a
tion to “our beautiful downtown
fantastic downtown which
with all its unique amenities.”
acts as a hub for the judicial,
“Downtown Milford is
economic, transportation, and
fortunate to have a privileged
recreational needs of our entire
geographic location”, says
region,” says Mayor Ben Blake.
Tracy Bonesconi, president of
“Downtown is a place steeped
the DMBA. “We are insulated
In the fall, when the crispness
in history and charm while also
from the Post Road which keeps
in the air matches the taste of
thriving with amenities…where
“corporate retail shops” from
freshly picked apples sold at
visitors might shop our unique
populating the landscape.
farm stands, Downtown Milford
boutiques or sample fine cuisine
Located right on the harbor with
emerges from its drowsy sum-
at a local eatery. Our 55,000 resi-
beautiful beaches just nearby,
mertime slumber. Faster than
dents are proud to boast of our
it’s retained a quaint, seaside
you can say “back-to-school,” we
meticulously maintained town
New England charm that you
helps counteract that, and
recalibrate our schedules and
Green…where memorials salute
simply can’t fabricate.” With
reminds people what being part
quicken our pace. Streets fill with
those who proudly served, and
more than 100 members, the
of a community can be. More
residents and visitors arriving by
our flagpole stands as the tallest
DMBA helps area businesses
importantly, our work keeps the
car, train, boat, bike, and foot to
in the State.” (This past July, the
foster relationships and leverage
landscape vibrant, and that’s
eat, shop, play, tour, and experi-
Connecticut Preservation Council
expertise to ensure the long-
something to be proud of. As
ence Milford’s center.
listed the Milford Green to the
term success of all members.
we hear all the time, ‘There is
State Register of Historic Places.)
“As foot traffic increases to one
always something happening in
Our “Small City with a Big
business, others benefit simply
Downtown Milford.’ ”
“Not too many towns can boast that their harbor meets the downtown. Or has the
Heart” offers a cornucopia of
through increased exposure and
second longest green in New
year-round events, some of
word of mouth. The relationship
the DMBA, points to a “robust
England and a vibrant arts
which might be geared toward a
we build with our community
roster of events (entirely run
community at the train sta-
particular demographic. But most
elevates Downtown Milford
by volunteers) as a key tool for
tion,” says Nell Moll, director of
often, whether it’s a kids’ show,
as a destination, for locals and
engendering goodwill between
membership (and opportunities
car show, or craft show, everyone
tourists.”
community members, on top
and enthusiasm) at the Milford
shows up. “Milford Center
Chamber of Commerce. Moll’s
appeals to a great cross-section of
our local businesses simply
exposure. They draw and engage
affection for Milford extends
people and ages,” says Raymond
couldn’t survive,” Bonesconi
thousands of people every year.”
to both her professional and
Pantalena, pharmacist/manager
continues. “In an era of big box
personal life. “As far as the
of Howes Drug & Medical. “In
stores and online shopping,
arrive by boat. “Boating access is
Chamber goes, we are so lucky to
the same way that Howes has
small businesses face a lot of
integral to Downtown Milford’s
be located in a beautiful, historic
been around for over 100 years
obstacles. The DMBA’s effort
success,” says harbormaster Ray
building in Downtown Milford.”
and has continued to progress
to draw attention downtown
Swift. “Merchants know when
28 Milford Living • Autumn
“Without a vital downtown
Emily Swet, PR director of
of providing an opportunity for
Many of those people even
it’s a big weekend on the landing because it impacts their business in a positive way. And for boaters, because we’re a transient-only marina, a lot of our guests choose Milford Harbor, where they’re only one block from the downtown, with such a great assortment of restaurants, shops, and services,” he says. “They choose us, as opposed to docking at another marina where they need to use cabs or Uber to do anything. And that’s pretty unique.” Downtown Milford’s easy accessibility is, in fact, the lifeblood of many locals, especially important to those who rely on mass transit. Eleanore the Milford Senior Center, recognizes how “important it is for seniors without transportation to enjoy
JJ RICHARDS
COURTESY OF MILFORD ROTARY
JJ RICHARDS
BILL CANFIELD
DOWNTOWN
Turkington, publicity specialist for
Downtown Milford offers something for everyone. At any time of the year you can grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat, visit one of the many boutiques, stroll the picturesque Milford Green, or participate in dozens of events, from lobster bakes to craft shows, where everyone is invited.
2018 • Milford Living 29
the convenience of downtown shopping and dining.” “I love being in the middle of it all,” says Marti Reed, owner of the Canvas Patch. After four decades, “Milford is still warm and welcoming,” she says, a sentiment echoed daily from both regular shoppers and “visitors from as far away as Australia and Japan. ” They typically purchase her top sellers—gift items that exclusively represent or say Milford—which include handmade afghans, pottery, windsocks, and clothing. “I appreciate Milford through their eyes,” says Reed, who also bestows kind words upon her fellow business owners.
COURTESY OF MAC
DOWNTOWN
30 Milford Living • Autumn
COURTESY OF MAC
“We are all unique and have something different to offer. It’s a very nice blend.” Phillip Conine, general
manager of Stonebridge Restau-
the Milford Arts Council (MAC),
vision is for creativity to happen
rant feels much the same. He
feels strongly about fostering
everywhere, making Milford a
admits to getting “really excited
connections between local
thriving destination community
about interacting with everyone
artists and merchants. “MAC
of arts and culture.”
who comes to eat here and
co-exists and partners with
visit. Because we’re on a pivotal
businesses and services in
segments that contribute to
corner, Stonebridge anchors us
addition to hosting benefits,
Downtown Milford’s vitality to
to history while allowing us to
dinners, auctions, exhibits, and
a fine-tuned wheel: “By creating
move forward.” Despite Down-
lectures,” she says. “We expand,
an attractive community, we
town Milford’s growing number
enrich, and enlighten the
(along with other city groups
of restaurants, Conine isn’t
typical downtown experience
and associations) help encour-
concerned. “I would be first to
by offering programming to
age families to stay or move to
say that our competition is not
compliment dining and shop-
Milford, which then attracts
the other, newer restaurants in
ping options.”
more businesses and jobs,” says
he says.
With the introduction of the new MAC Experiences program,
The need to build relation-
Bonesconi. “And that helps our city thrive as a whole.”
patrons will be “literally
ships within the town extends
brought inside business and
beyond business owners. Paige
restaurant doors for discounts,
Miglio, executive director of
specials, and tastings. Our
Fresh grilled oysters are a tasty way to celebrate Milford’s heritage each year at the Milford Oyster Festival.
COURTESY OF OYSTER FESTIVAL
Milford, but other local towns,”
The DMBA likens the many
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2018 • Milford9/6/18 Living 31 3:04 PM
36 Milford Living • Autumn
MILFORD ON THE MAP BY ANN MCGUIRE
In this day of Google maps and GPS coordinates, it’s easy to forget just how valuable a printed map was not too long ago. Though the paper variety may have seen its heyday, as artifacts of the past—and in some cases—works of art, they are treasures to view, study, and appreciate. Old maps of Milford are plentiful and provide
right and tell your kids, “We’re passing the Great
a tremendous amount of historical information
Dreadful Swamp,” and see what kind of a reaction
on the town as it was at any given point in time.
you get.
You can practically trace the family migration patterns of all the Baldwins, Ponds, Smiths, Fowlers, Tibbels, Platts, and Buckinghams just by looking at maps drawn over the decades. You can follow the expansion of Milford beyond the 1646 palisades and into the wilderness of Stubby Plain (now Burnt Plains) and the relative No Man’s Land of Indian’s Neck and beyond. Many of the maps themselves, a few of which we feature here, are as beautiful as they are functional, complete with intricate Victorian embellishments and elaborate printing. Others are true to the city’s Puritan roots—simple and to the point. And one remarkable map is the handdrawn confines of one local boy’s world circa 1973. So dive into the history of Milford via these
F
ounded in 1970,
maps. You’ll see that once upon a time there
NOAA (the National
F.R. HONEY
was a place called “The Great Dreadful Swamp.”
Oceanographic and
Although it sounds like something out of “The
Atmospheric Administration)
Princess Bride,” the maps don’t lie. The swamp is
continues to create
navigational charts for boaters
still there, by the way; now it’s called the Baldwin
in the United States.
next time you drive up Fresh Meadows Lane or
Marsh Wildlife Area. Still, it might be fun the
in Milford and all other waters
in the book “The History of Milford 1639-1934,” this map can be purchased
at the Milford Historical Society.
NOAA
approach the Milford connector, to look to the
T
he History of Milford Plot Plan. Found
2018 • Milford Living 37
D
rawn
by F.R.
Honey
in 1880, this map (top left) depicts the properties
held by the first
free planters and indicates the
original stockade that surrounded Milford’s first settlement.
A
lso found in “The
History
of Milford 1639
– 1934,” another
representation of Milford’s original
plot plan (bottom left).
C
reated by E.R.
Lambert
in 1855, this map (right)
includes beautiful illustrations of
significant homes, community
buildings, and
businesses around Milford. Prints of
this stunning map are available for purchase at the
Milford Historical
E.R. LAMBERT
Society.
38 Milford Living • Autumn
2018 • Milford Living 39
T
his map section
showing Milford
is part of a larger
map of New Haven County created by R. Whiteford in
1852. The New York and New Haven Railroad can be seen making its way through
R. WHITEFORD
town.
Eisenhower Park
0.05 mi)
Ln
)
i) (0.0 7m
mi) (0.12
i) 8m
(0.06
(0.07 mi)
(0.0 9m
mi)
0 .0
i) Koz lo
wsk i
Rd
5m i)
(0.
(0.17 m
mi)
(0.0
5m
(0.22
0.27 mi )
mi)
06
i)
(
g Rive Wepawau r
(0.0
Dr
mi)
W River
i) m
Girl Scout Pond (0.09
(0. 0 6 mi)
t S
Ca ll o w ay
m
(0.0 7
Bristols Ice Pond
mi
(0.09 mi) (0.0 5 i)
(
.07 (0
mi)
(0.0 8
16
(0.
Bolt
mi)
3 mi)
Mill Te r
State Hwy 121
(0.3
Flax
i)
(
O
(0 .0
ne of many trails available for trekking in Milford
5m i)
(0.12 mi)
121 wy te H Sta
acre park offers residents hiking trails, tennis courts, a
(0.1 4
(0 .23
mi
)
mi)
makes its way through Eisenhower Park. The 200-
( 0. 14
mi)
West Pond
new splash park, and pickleball courts. For more walking maps go
Legend Parking
to http://scrcog.org/regional-planning/regional-trails/
Trailhead
i 7m (0.2
Garden
)
S
P l a t t Ln
mi)
mi)
40 Milford Living • Autumn
E
05
W
Eisenhower Park Trails
(0.
(0.21
North
Pas cha l
Bridge
Town Property Land Trust Property Wetlands
Dr
CITY OF MILFORD
Dog Park
S
ince the internet was decades into the
future and gas station maps didn’t provide the kind of detail I wanted, I decided over
breakfast one summer morning to walk around
and create my own map of Woodmont in 1973! The map shows numerous landmarks which are now long gone and forgotten. For example, between
the end of our back yard and Seabreeze Avenue, a
development of tiny cottages used to exist. It was called “Sperry Court”. In the map, I labeled each
cottage according to its color. The map captures
other now forgotten elements of the neighborhood such as the Surf Club (and all its details), including the entrance to its parking lot. Today, the Surf
Village condos and Sandpiper Crescent occupy that handball courts, basketball courts, and playground are all documented. —Andy Blair
.ANDY BLAIR
same space. The old Surf Club shuffle board courts,
2018 • Milford Living 41
milford morsels
Blazing Bonfire
O
n Hillside Avenue in the Woodmont section of Milford, a stone’s throw from the beach, stands one of Milford’s newest restaurants. Professional restauranteurs Frank Basile and Robert Cyr have harnessed their passion for providing delicious, unique cuisine in an upscale but comfortable family friendly setting. They designed Bonfire Grille to please the area’s diners. “We listened to what the neighborhood people wanted and were able to implement many of their suggestions,” says Cyr. Many longtime residents, who grew
grins spread as they take in all the
up frequenting Sloppy Jose’s in that very
changes and improvements Basile and Cyr
building, react the same when they first
have undertaken.
walk into Bonfire Grille. Their jaws drop and
The first impression is that of airiness; a more expansive space, created from the light,
BONFIRE GRILLE
186 Hillside Avenue, Milford, CT 203.693.2777 www.milfordbonfiregrille.com Kitchen open Monday – Saturday: 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
beachy color theme, along with the many windows and walls that open to allow the
The large, square bar opens to the outdoor
fresh sea air to enter and bring the outside in.
patio on one side, allowing people to enjoy
Basile explained “We wanted to give an open
their food and drink al fresco if desired, and
air vibe; a beach cottage feel.” One big change
the patio is surrounded by attractive fencing
for the building: upstairs on the roof there
to provide guests with privacy. On the wall
is space being renovated for a rooftop beer
underneath the bar, there are outlets with
garden with water views.
regular and USB ports, perfect for charging cell phones or tablets. “We tried to think of everything our clients would want and include it in the design,” says Cyr. Televisions are conveniently located around the restaurant, perfect for watching a game, without being the primary focal point of the space. “We’ve subscribed to ‘NFL Sunday Ticket’ so our customers can enjoy the games,” Cyr explains, “but we really have something for
ANNA DOWNS (3)
everyone and every occasion.” Frank Basile is the man behind the unique and delicious menu. Trained at Johnson & Wales, his creativity and
42 Milford Living • Autumn
attention to detail have combined to make for some tasty fare. The summer menu is well-rounded with a seaside flare. A raw bar including oysters ($15/$30), littleneck clams, and shrimp cocktail with the signature Bonfire cocktail sauce ($4 each) is available, as well as appetizers that include clam chowder ($6), the Garden and Sea (fried calamari, zucchini, carrot sticks, and Jalapeños lightly breaded and fried golden brown, served with chipotle aioli and house made ANNA DOWNS
marinara - $13), potato encrusted blue crab cakes served with zesty Remoulade sauce ($14), fresh PEI mussels sautéed with white
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2018 • Milford Living 43
milford morsels wine, garlic, Roma tomatoes, butter, and
Bonfire blaze sauce ($8/$16/$23). Also on the
mood for seafood have
fresh basil ($12) and more.
menu are grilled flatbreads and Trash Pan
much to choose from,
Nachos, house cut tortilla chips topped with
including the Meat and
tacos ($15) and a soft shell crab po’boy ($16) are
jalapeños, black olives, pico de gallo, and
Potatoes (grilled hanger
available, as well as “the Milford fan favorite,
Monterey jack cheddar blend, baked in the
steak and truffle parmesan
a classic lobster roll,” ($25) says Basile with a
oven and served with sour cream ($12).
fried potatoes served with
For the “handheld” portion of the menu, fish
smile. Seaside-themed entrees included fish
Delicious handheld fare include the
a portabella demiglaze and
& chips ($18) and oven-roasted Cajun salmon
California Chicken Sandwich (grilled
field green salad -$18), the
topped with a roasted pineapple salsa and
chicken breast topped with Monterey
mouth-watering Bam-Bam
served with rice pilaf ($22).
jack, Applewood smoked bacon, and sliced
Chicken and Waffles (Fruity
avocado -$12), pork tacos ($15), specialty
Pebbles-coated chicken
preferring the “turf” over the “surf” on
burgers like the Bonfire Burger, All American
breast served with confetti
the menu. Unique appetizers are on the
Burger, or Holy Guacamole Burger ($13-$14),
Belgian waffles topped
summer menu, including BFG Wings (which
and the delicious BFG Pork Belly Hot Dog, a
with purple slaw, hot
stands for brined, fried, and grilled) with a
slow-roasted maple bourbon glazed pork
honey glaze, and maple
choice of Buffalo gorgonzola, BBQ dry rub,
belly topped with apple fennel relish ($14).
aioli -$18), or the Huli
sweet chili, garlic parmesan, or habanero
For their main course, diners not in the
There are plenty of choices for those
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Huli Chicken (Hawaiian
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44 Milford Living • Autumn
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␀ ⸀㤀㔀
匀攀攀 椀渀 猀琀漀爀攀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀
BBQ chicken slow roasted
chili dipping sauce ($13). They have a house
and glazed with a zesty
made quinoa burger topped with cheddar
pineapple BBQ sauce served
cheese, sliced avocado, and chipotle aioli
with roasted pineapple
($14), and serve up their special Cauliflower
and a garden vegetable
Rice and Beans, enjoyed by vegetarians and
macaroni salad -$18).
omnivores alike ($16).
Basile and Cyr are committed to providing
each season, and has plans to move toward
meal options for just
heartier, heavier fare as the weather gets
about everyone, and they
cooler.
included many vegetarian
ANNA DOWNS
The pair intends on adapting the menu to
Bonfire Grille is a welcoming, fun
options on Bonfire
destination for anyone in the Milford area.
Grille’s menu, such as
From people who just want to unwind with
sautéed vegetables,
a drink with friends to those going out for a
water chestnuts, and
meal with the family, or just stopping by for a
mushrooms served in
quick appetizer, everyone is welcome.
lettuce cups with a sweet
—Shaileen Kelly Lansberg
@5roNE§l\lP.&J.;; £ 50 (J)anieCStreet- 9,1..iffora, C'I' ®) www.stone6ria9erestaurant.com © 203-874-7947
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re foo�ng to spend your lJJi,ank§giving, _ ve, :New 'Year's 'Eve, or to 6oo{your 2018 vent, Stone6ritfge provides a perfect setting. �1!!modate Carge groups for every /i,ofufay.
'FeaturitlfJ Casuat)f.merican 'Fare witlifresli seafootf sucli as Live £o6sters, cCams antfoysters, antf our Si/Jnature Slirimp Coc�ait:'We offer appetizers, santfwiclies, satatfs antfliome-matfe soups as weff as succuCent stea�, tentfer moist poultry antfincreai6fe pasta specia{ties.
<Bruncli at tlie "<Bruf9e" - <Every Suntfay 11am-2:30pm ;li.• ¾a(f<Price Jlppetizers - :Montfay - Priaay (4:00pm - 7:00pm} ((])iscountea (])rin{<Piic°7sJ 2for $32 Compfete (])inner Speciafs (])ai{y (3:00pm- 6:00pm e�fuain9 liofiaays) 2018 • Milford Living 45
The House that History Built
W
hen you visit the Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) at their neat, mid-century colonial chapter house on Prospect Avenue, it doesn’t exactly scream HISTORY. Yet history is everywhere you look; it even lives in the ground on which the property is situated. The chapter house, one of only two in the state, was built in 1953 on a site that was once the garden of the Rev. Peter Prudden, Milford’s founder and the spiritual leader of the city’s first settlers, part of the original land grant deeded to Prudden in 1639.
COURTESY FREELOVE BALDWIN STOW CHAPTER DAR
historical perspective
The original members of the Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter of the DAR sold cakes and held dinners to build the first chapter house. an indignant Mary Lockwood wrote in the Washington Post. Only a few months later, the first organizational meeting of the new National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution was held. Like the SAR, membership in the DAR was (and still is) contingent on proving “lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence.” Fast forward six years when, in the spring of 1896, Milford society doyenne Mary Hepburn
History, of course, is at the core of the DAR. It began in 1890 when the newly formed Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) refused to admit
Smith organized the Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter of the DAR, filling it with women like herself who were the granddaughters and greatgranddaughters of revolutionary patriots. According to an article by one Mary
women to their ranks. “Were there
Philotheta Root published in 1904, “The Milford
no Mothers of the Revolution?”
chapter did not need to deliberate long in the
ANN MCGUIRE
selection of a name. The name of Freelove
46 Milford Living • Autumn
A framed newspaper clipping
Baldwin Stow, wife of Captain Stephen Stow,
keeps company with vintage
appealed to them at once.” Not only did
volumes of lineage books on DAR
Freelove Baldwin Stow “give her four sons,
members.
Stephen, Samuel, John, and Jedediah to the
State Regent Marolyn Paulis.
husband as well. Milford
“By putting up trestle tables
hero Captain Stephen Stow
and holding dinners and
died in early 1777 after
baking cakes they raised
caring for a large group of
enough money to put up a
ANN MCGUIRE
cause of liberty,” but her
sick and dying American soldiers who had been abandoned on Milford’s
Handwritten military service records trace Milford’s ties to the Revolutionary War.
shore by a British warship.
chapter house!” Given that the cost was probably around $3,000, that’s a lot of cake. The property was sold to the
Freelove’s remaining son and two daughters
one of the original rafters removed that the
Milford Bank in the early 1950s. “There was
carried on the Stow name and legacy.
charter of the Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter
a family that lived next door to the current
might be framed with wood from the home of
chapter house named Nettleton who had
Stephen Stow.”
family that were members,” says Paulis. “They
In 1907 the DAR built its first chapter house downtown on land (now the Milford Bank parking lot) that was donated by Mary
“The original chapter house was built by
sold the acre of land our chapter house is on
Hepburn Smith. The then-owner of the Stow
our first Regent and the first members of the
to the DAR for $1.00. With the proceeds of the
house, according to Root’s article, “kindly had
chapter,” says 52-year member and one-time
sale of the original house we built the current
2018 • Milford Living 47
historical perspective house and had a little leftover to start an
furniture and china donated by members are
dating back to the first days of the chapter. It
endowment to maintain it.”
on display. Mary Hepburn Smith’s portrait
brings out the history geek in Davis, a 3-year
holds a place of honor, as do photographs
member in her first year as regent, who made
house rests under the bay window of the
of members who have served in various
her connection to the DAR through an online
current chapter house, where historical
branches of the military. The DAR’s mission
genealogical search. “I had one of those free
of historic preservation, education, and
Ancestry.com accounts and my tree just went
patriotism are clearly on display. The chapter’s
on, and on, and on,” she says. “One day I saw
history, much of it paper, has been preserved
the words SAR and I said, ‘Ooh, what’s this?’
in a large antique dresser.
I realized my great aunt happened to be a
The 1907 cornerstone from the original
Diving into the archives, Chapter Regent Kendra Davis and Honorary Regent Barbara Stewart unearth scrapbooks, photographs, ANN MCGUIRE
newspaper clippings, guestbooks, and journals
member, and so I joined. I jumped in with both feet.” Davis was able to take advantage of today’s technology when making the historical connection to her Revolutionary War ancestor.
An early event program printed with many
For Barbara Stewart, like hundreds of members
names that are still familiar in Milford today.
who came before, the story began in the family
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48 Milford Living • Autumn
203-305-2584 Located in Milford, Oronoque Road
Jeff Dalton, Owner maddbeavertree@yahoo.com
bible. “Come to find out
people just don’t have the time.
that not everything was
I didn’t join until our kids were
correct in that bible,” she
grown,” she admits.
laughs. But while tracing
Paulis, whose 95-year old ANN MCGUIRE
your family back might not be easy, both agree it’s certainly worth the effort. The popularity of Ancestry.
A treasure trove of DAR-related ephemera that goes back to the chapter’s founding.
com and DNA sites, as well as
mother Sarah Agro has been a member for more than 60 years, says joining the DAR is “a great thing for young professional women,” citing
programs like “Who Do You Think You Are,” has
Davis calls “white haired ladies sitting around
the connections, camaraderie, and civic
prompted a renewed interest in organizations
drinking tea.” Stewart, a 9-year member,
action. DAR members have long been at the
like the DAR. Plus, says Davis, “If you hit a brick
wholeheartedly agrees. “It’s not like when
forefront of issues that affect women she
wall and you just can’t find it, we have two
women didn’t work outside the home. Back
says. “Susan B. Anthony was a member of the
committees that will help you.”
in the day they’d have 150 members and a
DAR. A lot of suffragettes were in the DAR. It’s
meeting would be packed. Now you have two
always had a presence of very active women
income families with children and a lot of
fighting for advancement. I believe we’ve
Currently with about 60 members, the chapter is working to dispel the image of what
35
901 Bridgeport Ave, Milford, CT 06460 (1/2 mile from the Milford green) 203.874.1900 info@traynorcollision.com Monday – Friday, 8am - 5pm Opened in 2001 Community Supporter Follow us on Facebook
2018 • Milford Living 49
historical perspective always been great supporters of women and
Washington D.C., with its museum, library, and
women’s issues.”
performance buildings (“The largest group of
ANN MCGUIRE
The DAR’s commitment to the community has also remained constant. Each year the
by women, period,” says Paulis), they are
Baldwin chapter sponsors dozens of projects
equally as proud of their 56 x 40-foot chapter
including good citizenship and community
house. “It’s home,” says Barbara Stewart. And
service awards, scholarship programs, and
as a home, it’s nice to have visitors. “It’s always
essay contests. They provide support for
wonderful to welcome new people from the
veterans through the VA in West Haven and
community into our chapter house,” says
Homes for the Brave in Bridgeport. They also
Paulis. “And particularly lovely to welcome
sponsor a veteran’s luncheon that coincides
new members.”
with the annual laying of Christmas wreaths
—Ann McGuire
on graves of every veteran in local cemeteries (the Wreaths Across America program.) And as proud as the Baldwin DAR members
A journal entry from the first meeting of the Freelove Baldwin DAR chapter in 1896.
buildings completely owned and maintained
are of the grand national headquarters in
PLEASE VISIT www.dar.org for more information on discovering your ancestors and applying for membership.
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50 Milford Living • Autumn
9/15/2018
9/15/2018
legends & lore
Close Encounters S ince the dawn of time we have looked toward the heavens in wonderment. Twinkling stars came to life when Greco-Roman astronomer Ptolemy presented constellations as mythological figures: Pegasus, Orion, Cassiopeia, Perseus, and the beautiful Andromeda. Ever since, star gazers have sought an answer to the question “are we alone in the universe?”
sightings were identified as aircraft or other earthly objects, but 10% could not be explained. “Two percent of people believe they have been abducted. Thirty percent of people believe we have been visited by extraterrestrials. More than 60% believe there is life among the stars,” says Dr. Shostak.
Famed astronomer Carl Sagan created the
Soviet aircraft, but Project Blue Book was
“In general, the number of reported UFO’s is
SETI Institute in 1980 with the Search for Extra
cancelled because they were not producing
around 10,000 per year.”
Terrestrial Intelligence as the focus of the
any specific results. Ninety percent of
Milford has had its share of UFO sightings.
institute’s research. There, 130 astronomers
The MUFON (Mutual UFO Network)
and astrobiologists study stars and planets
Connecticut chapter keeps an eye on the
across the Milky Way galaxy searching for
skies and tracks sightings in our state.
signs of life.
“There are approximately 13 cases in the
SETI’s senior astronomer Seth Shostak,
MUFON database that have been reported
has conducting research for 25 years. “I
in the Milford area. The types of craft
get calls from people every day saying
reported include: triangle, orb, fireball,
they’ve seen ‘something’,” he says. In the
and oval,” says MUFON director Michael
mid-20th century, the United States Air Force
Panicello. “A craft usually moves slowly. For
commenced Project Blue Book, a concerted
example, the triangle craft. This craft is
effort to investigate Unidentified Flying
almost always reported moving slowly in
Objects (UFO’s). Initially the project was
one direction, stopped, or slowly turning in
created to identify potential experimental
another direction. Orbs are often described
There have been numerous UFO sightings in Milford over the years. This is an aristic rendering of
ED STEINERTS
one.
52 Milford Living • Autumn
MILFORD UFO SIGHTINGS 12/24/2016 12:18 a.m.
DURATION: 10 hours; TYPE: Diamond Four objects in a formation, diamond shaped craft. One craft seemed to be having difficulty maintaining altitude, as it would change color from the brilliant blue that lit up my entire backyard, to almost a blood red-type of color. Every time it shifted color, it dropped straight down out of formation. It got lower and lower.
12/13/2012 6:08 p.m.
DURATION: 15 minutes; TYPE: Lights Lights in random formation heading over Milford. Approx. 30-35 red/white, non-blinking light, no audible sound or doppler type sound at the trail. Lights came in a swarm like formation from the south east.
12/3/2012 8:00 p.m.
DURATION: 5 minutes; TYPE: Lights Three lights in triangle pattern over Long Island Sound. Jets traveling east bound were well beneath the lights which hovered before ascending abruptly out of view
DURATION: 2 hours; TYPE: Lights Gulf Beach. Low flying aerial light of unusual color traveling west to the east, altitude 700 feet, no sound. Light passed over the water, between the shore and Charles Island. Light veered south, along the eastern edge of Charles Island and headed towards Long Island.
9/14/2013 8:00 p.m.
11/14/10 12:15 p.m.
10/16/15 6:30 p.m.
DURATION: 1 minute; TYPE: ? A jellyfish-type object hovering. Pale blue in color and translucent. A bright light that looked like a small flame at the base. Appeared to almost be “floating” above the houses. It was fairly low and vivid.
DURATION: 20 minutes; TYPE: Cylinder Object spotted overhead moving from east to west. Altitude was below clouds. It appeared to be silver-metallic in color, cylindrical-faceted, and rotating around horizontal axes; every
three seconds the flat side reflected sunlight producing a flash-flare of light; indication of rotation. No contrails. Moved west; lost sight on the western horizon.
7/15/2008 2:45 a.m.
DURATION: 10 minutes; TYPE: Triangle Witness saw a triangle move overhead of their house. Witness said the triangle was several hundred feet wide. The triangle had a green hue and flames—long flames—coming out the back.
11/1/1991 11:00 p.m.
DURATION: 15 minutes; TYPE: Saucer Walnut Beach. A very loud noise like a rocket blast. Soon after, witnesses heard a sound that was described as a sonic boom. As clouds began to form over the water a black saucer came out of it. Had square windows circling the craft; three lights: red, green, and white; 60’ wide and 30’ tall - 100’ feet from witnesses. White beam of light from bottom of the craft, scanned the
water below. Silent. Moved parallel to the shoreline. Craft observed till it was out of sight.
12/3/1976 3:30 p.m.
DURATION: 2 hours; TYPE: Cylinder White fluorescent cigar-shaped object 60 ft above. Object was approx. 20 ft long x 6 feet high. It moved into the southern sky about one mile away, stayed, and burst into a “gigantic sparkler,” moved in a straight line, and exploded two more objects from itself.
6/15/1963 3:00 a.m.
DURATION: 1 minute; TYPE: Cylinder A solid black cylinder shape moving across the ground then rising like a shadow. Police officer on duty, 11PM to 7AM shift; central business district. Rose up from a street that ran along the Wepawaug River. Witnessed coming up the hill on the ground a deep black “patch” about 15 feet wide and 30 feet long. Moving slowly; less than two miles per hour.
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legends & lore or videotaped moving under intelligent
from a formation of orbs,” he says.
control. They speed up or slow down; move
MUFON investigates reports of sightings
into a formation with other orbs or break off
in the state and encourages those who think
Panicello. “As the sighting gets older it starts to get cold; data is lost. It becomes a best educated guess at that point, which we do
they have seen something
not like to do because it is not scientific.”
to speak up immediately
Field investigators find out everything
following a sighting. “We
they can about possible sightings. “MUFON
have the best chance of
investigates cases to be as accurate as
investigating recent sightings
possible and lets the evidence decide the
because data, witnesses, and
outcome,” says Panicello. “We do not bend
other research avenues we
the evidence to fit a preconceived outcome.”
have are still fresh,” says
So, Milford, keep your eyes on the skies. As
COURTESY OF SETI@HOME
artistic visionary David Bowie sang, “There’s SETI@home volunteers help with
a Starman waiting in the sky. He’d like to
UFO identification projects by
come and meet us, but he thinks he’d blow our
analyzing data on their personal
minds.” —Susan Carroll-Dwyer
computers.
“IF yOU Need IT qUICK CALL RiCk”
203-874-6629 Rick Jurzyk
1050 Bridgeport Ave., Milford
P1-204379 • S1-385776 • F1-40226 ST1-400482 • HIC-0611483 • Fax: 203-877-0818
WWW.RICKSPLUMBING.COM 54 Milford Living • Autumn
Rick Jurzyk
1050 Bridgeport Ave., Milford
CT Lic # P1-204379 Fax: 203-877-0818
www.RAinMAkeRCT.CoM
203-876-2700
senior corner Milford boasts a number of ways for seniors to comfortably get to their destinations without having to drive themselves. patrons must either be 65 or older, or qualify through the Americans with Disabilities Act. E&H rides must be booked at least 24 hours in advance, but three days lead time is recommended. For $6 round trip, riders can be taken anywhere in Milford to shop, visit family, go to the hairdresser, the doctor, etc. Any transportation outside of Milford ($7.00 round trip) is generally provided only for a medical appointment. Cash or check payment is made to the driver of the initial leg of the trip. For more information call 203-874-4507. Some home care companies offer community. This is beneficial to those who may need a person to accompany them to appointments, assist them in transferring ANNA DOWNS
Getting from Here to There
transportation services to seniors in the
M
any of Milford’s seniors choose to stop driving their own vehicles due to medical, vision, or other personal reasons. Some don’t have cars. Others may need to use a wheelchair for mobility, which can make it difficult to get in and out of a standard automobile. Sometimes a person just might not feel comfortable behind the wheel anymore. Luckily, there are several different options for those needing transportation to shop, go to doctor appointments, attend family gatherings, or just remain mobile.
203-877-5131 extension 2125. Please note that two
booked for rides. This convenient service is
or three days minimum lead time is preferred. Another local transportation resource
them get to medical appointments in Milford.
available to area seniors is Elderly and
It’s a curb-to-curb service. While the driver is
Handicapped (E&H) Van Rides, provided by
unable to escort riders into the building, those
the Milford Transit District. Residents must
needing assistance can have an escort ride
submit an application to qualify for this
along to their destination. There is no cost to
service, although rides can be given while
members for this service. To schedule a ride,
the application is being reviewed. To qualify,
56 Milford Living • Autumn
One such company, Always Best Care, has a branch in Milford. According to owner Susan Oderwald, “It’s a full-service program. Our caregivers can help the senior get ready, accompany them, and if it’s a doctor’s
call transportation supervisor Jim Convery at
and handicapped-accessible vans that can be available only to members of the Center to help
some assistance in preparing to go out.
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The Milford Senior Center has wheelchair
into and out of a vehicle, or even providing
appointment that has medications prescribed, they can pick up the prescriptions.” The state average for this service is $22 per hour plus mileage. More information can be obtained by ANNA DOWNS
calling 203-693-4527 or visiting https://www.alwaysbestcare.com/ct/ fairfield/. Ambulance and wheelchair van service transportation is available for those requiring
The Milford Senior Center and Milford Transit System offer free or low-cost hadicapped
more assistance, including those who can only
accessible van rides to locations within the city,
be transported on a stretcher. Connecticut Handivan (203-562-1760) and American
Response, their company has “provided
destination. For more information, call Kevin
Medical Response (203-781-1108) are two
rides to many different locations, from
Guptill at 203-410-2985.
companies providing such options locally.
medical appointments, to recreational trips,
According to Kevin Guptill, quality care coordinator for American Medical
Taxi service has been the go-to for many
to weddings.” Their drivers can generally
people needing rides throughout the years.
accompany riders into the lobby of the
This remains an option even for seniors
Costa
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2018 • Milford Living 57
senior corner requiring a bit more assistance getting
standards of the Americans with Disabilities
GoGoGrandparent, lets the rider use a landline
into and a vehicle or in wheelchairs. Metro
Act. For more information or to book a
or cellphone to book the transportation. Return
Taxi does not just use the traditional sedan
ride call 203-777-7777 or visit http://www.
trips can also be scheduled as long as the user
taxi cabs, but also has vehicles that can
metrotaxict.com.
has a cellphone or access to a landline at the
CREATED BY FRIMUFILMS - FREEPIK.COM
accommodate wheelchairs and meet the
Many residents have heard of the ride share services Uber and Lyft. As more and more
minute surcharge (approximately $2.00 per
seniors embrace technology, these services are
ride) to use the service, which is available in all
becoming more popular with those needing
50 states.
transportation to events, appointments,
With all these transportation options
and more. A convenient way to book a ride
available, it’s no wonder Milford has a
anywhere, Uber and Lyft generally require a
vibrant and active community of seniors out
smartphone and app. However, in 2017 a novel
and about on a daily basis. These companies
workaround was developed by a man whose
make just about every location reachable,
grandmother came up with the idea since
there is a service to cater to the needs of every
she was not comfortable using a smartphone,
senior, and best of all, they are easy to use!
but still needed transportation. This service,
“Show me the manner in which a nation cares for its dead and I will measure with mathematical exactness the tender mercies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land and their loyalty to high ideals.” – William Ewart Gladstone, Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
ALL FAMILY BUDGETS ACCOMMODATED WITHOUT COMPROMISING OUR QUALITY OF SERVICES David J. DeRubeis – Managing Partner
Thomas J. Cody Jr. - Funeral Director Kyle Duke - Funeral Director Rachel Cimbak – Funeral Director Kevin W. Cody - Funeral Director Amanda Veccharelli - Funeral Director Carly Ericson – Funeral Director Renate Eastman - Office Manager
CODY-WHITE FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICE 107 Broad Street on the Green, Milford (203) 874-0268 • www.codywhitefuneralservice.com
58 Milford Living • Autumn
destination location. There is a 19 cent per
—Shaileen Kelly Landsberg
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 55 YEARS
Carpet • Tile • Linoleum • Hardwood • Laminates
Wood • Vinyl • Planks
WE BEAT OTHER PRICES!
Next Day Delivery on In Stock Only!
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM!
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★
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Hours of operation: Mon-fri 4am-6pm Sat 4am-4pm
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All kinds of haircuts from traditional to modern - Short to long hair Beard styling In business since 1969!
Mobile Wood Fired Pizza for Parties!
Heated – Vinyasa – Hatha Yoga – Pilates – All Levels 120 Boston Post Road, Milford – 203.257.2359 www.SunRoseYogaCT.com – Follow Us:
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NOW OPEN SUNDAYS GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
UNISEX HAIR SALON Jen Palmer•203.283.9899•Walk-Ins Welcome 232 Boston Post Road, Milford CT (Gloria’s Plaza) 60 Milford Living • Autumn
203.283.5290
Call us to reserve your space for the next issue
The Best TheinBest The Toys!Best in Toys! in Toys!
Recently voted best toy stores in Connecticut!
185 Boston185 PostBoston Rd185 Post Boston Rd Post Rd Orange, CTOrange,Orange, CT CT
MILFORD MARINE INSTITUTE
203-799-1301 203-799-1301 203-799-1301
& GULF POND MUSEUM
Hands On Science Summer Camps since 1983
1647 Whitney 1647Ave Whitney 1647 Whitney Ave Ave Hamden, CT Hamden, Hamden, CT CT
203-230-2840 203-230-2840 203-230-2840 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 Village Walk Walk Guilford, CT Guilford, Guilford, CT CT
203-453-8560 203-453-8560 203-453-8560
• Hands on artifact programs for birthday parties/or speaker all year round
• Revolutionary War program featuring Milford's Joseph Plumb Martin, Continental soldier and/or John Downs, Minuteman from Milford
• Camps : Marine Biology, Marine Biology Art, Bird identification and Archaeology/ Native Culture in June and July
Contact Tim Chaucer, Director 203-874-4000 tchaucer@msn.com or milfordmarineinstitute.org
sCholArshIps AvAIlABle
Karz Driving Service When hOW yOu get there matters
Fa m i ly & p o r t r a i t photography
serVicing all tri-state area airpOrts and transpOrtatiOn centers Our car Or yOurs. Very cOmpetitiVe rates. We haVe nO bOrders. if it’s driVable, We dO it! call us fOr a quOte tOday!
203-605-8130 aaron Kerzner
203.650.0383
Owner/Operator karzdriving@gmail.com www.karzdrivingservice.com
www.sherrylynnphotography.com sherrylynnFoto@gmail.com
Yolani P. Edirisinghe, D.M.D.
|
Specialty Woodworks and Design, LLC 354 New Haven Avenue Milford, CT 06460 203-874-6464 p/f
James E. Pucci, D.M.D.
Committed to Excellence in Dentistry 53 Cherry St. (Harmony Place), Milford, CT 06460 203-878-1766 www.familydentistrymilford.com
Suzanne Cahill Wedding Officiant, Connecticut 203.650.9659 Your special day...your special way!
Find us on
David Bacchiocchi, Owner
Celebrating 40 Years
MOBILE ELECTRONICS CENTER ALL MAJOR BRANDS • ALL ACCESSORIES REMOTE S VIDEO • NAVIgATION • CELLuLAR • SATELLITE RADIO C gIFT R STARTE ERTIFIC ATES www.starlanderbeck.com • Knowledgeable Staff • Guaranteed Professional Installation •Committed To Quality, Service & Price • Most Of Our Customers Are Referrals
10597291
Justice of the Peace
specialtywood@optimum.net Cabinetry and Millwork
203-877-4651
730 Boston Post Road – Rt. 1, Milford, Ct 06460 (Exit 39A From I-95)
2018 • Milford Living 61
expressions
Aview summer
Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so beautiful you just have to take the pic with your eyes. Steven Franko Taken at Silver Sands with Samsung Galaxy Edge 7
62 Milford Living â&#x20AC;˘ Autumn
congratulations
C
ongratulations to Milford Living Magazine for serving the Milford community for 15 years.
We thank all our staff throughout the years for providing their time and talents towards the continuous publishing of our hometown magazine. We are grateful to all our subscribers and advertisers for their continuing support, and we look forward to many more years to come. See you next issue!
DULIN COLLISION CENTER
Best Automotive Collision and Refinishing Center SERVICES INCLUDE:
• Refinishing • Body Work • Scratch & Dent Repair • Paintless Dent Removal • Automotive Glass • Automotive Detailing Call anytime: 203.283.9495 11 Warfield St., Milford Hours M-F | 8am - 5pm www.DulinCollisionCenter.com
2018 • Milford Living 63
?
where is it? Answer to last issue’s quiz:
The Walnut Tree on the side of Walnut Beach Creamery on Broadway in Walnut Beach.
Do you know the answer to this issue’s Where is It? Send us your answer at: suzanne@milfordliving.com
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ANNA DOWNS
Send your answer to this issue’s Where is It? (along with your name and address) to: suzanne@milfordliving.com Two lucky winners will be chosen at random.
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Milford Living Magazine
2014
P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460 (203)283-5290 www.milfordliving.com
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Silent KillerS!!! Carotid artery blockage increases your risk of stroke. An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) can be fatal if it ruptures. Blockage in the arteries (PAD) in the legs can cause pain with walking and increase your risk for developing gangrene. And these 3 diseases can be present without any outward signs, time bombs waiting to explode. They can only be diagnosed by a trained technician. A 10 minute, simple, painless, radiation free ultrasound can save your life! Call MVI to set up your screening today!!! Visit us at:
20 Commerce Park, Milford, CT 06460
203-882-VEIN
or 203-876-9720 to request an appointment Follow us on Facebook and Instagram