Milford Living Autumn 2023

Readers’

Milford

Susan Carroll Dwyer

This Season

Arts and Artisans

At Home

At Your Service

Milford Morsels

Education Notebook

Legends And Lore

Legacy

Milford’s Attic

Historical Perspective

Congratulations

Greetings From Milford

Seasonal Events

Where is It?

that Milford Harbor

of the most beautiful and accessible marinas along the East Coast.

Photo by Cathy Leite. You can view Cathy Liete’s portfolio at cathyleitephotography.com

AUTUMN 2023

VOLUME 20 • ISSUE 3

Publisher/President

Suzanne Cahill

Suzanne@milfordliving.com

Editorial Director

Ann McGuire

Art Director

Ryan Swanson

Associate Publisher

Susan Carroll Dwyer

Advertising Director

Joy Haines

Contributing Photographers

Suzanne Cahill, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Timothy Chaucer, Steven Franko, Cathy Leite, Maryalice Manning, Annabel Wardman

Contributing Editors

Tracy Farricker

Contributing Writers

Susan Carroll Dwyer, Timothy Chaucer, Michael Crane, Cindy Papish Gerber, Jason Marchi, Marilyn May, Tessa Marquis, Gerry McGuire, Mike Patrick, Maya Rossado, Annabel Wardman

Production Assistance

Kevin Maher, Wendy Macomber, Todd Manning, Tamara Simpson

Interns

Bridget Dwyer, Maryalice Manning

Milford Living Magazine

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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 2003-2023 Red

Greetings, dear friends!

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203.767.5037

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Also group classes at:

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Pay via cash/cashapp: Bombay25, Zelle. Light Work!!!

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As the seasons shift, the foliage in Milford transforms into a breathtaking display of colors. From vibrant oranges and yellows to deep reds, the changing leaves create a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. A walk along the boardwalk connecting Walnut Beach to Silver Sands is one of my favorite Milford walks. Although I don’t walk it as often as I wish, each time I do, I notice how the shore, the reeds, and the sky change with each visit, and I am reminded of how much beauty surrounds me. I encourage you to make the most of this season of change. Take a peaceful stroll along the Green or head out for a hike in one of the local parks with your family. Embrace the beauty of nature and create lasting memories with those you love. There is nothing like it to remind you of the magic of this time of year. And don’t forget to share your favorite Milford walks with us!

As part of this issue of Milford Living, we revisit our history, cherish our heritage, and honor our community members who contribute through music, literacy, and goodwill. And since it’s always fun to share recipes, we’ve included a few to keep your kitchen interesting and your taste buds tingling.

As a reminder, now is the perfect time to subscribe to Milford Living for yourself, as well as for your friends and neighbors who love Milford. Subscriptions are a great holiday gift to bring Milford to your family and friends all year! A gift subscription card can be found in this issue; simply complete and return. Alternatively, you can subscribe online at Milfordliving.com for faster service.

We love hearing from our readers! Please continue to share your thoughts, images, and story ideas with us so we can share them with the community.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours! Wishing you a wonderful holiday season.

readers’ letters

I worked at Mama Bear’s Place from 1980 – 2000, so I feel a love for Milford. Love your magazine –it brings back happy memories!

—Norma Kahl West Haven, CT

Mama Bear’s Place in downtown Milford was a wonderful shop that served the town for so many years. I’m sure many remember visiting the shop to pick up things for their little ones. Thank you for your service to the community. Today, Milford has three well known consignment shops in which to peruse including Consignment Originals, La Unique Boutique, Miss Dallas’s Shop, and just over the line in Orange, Once Upon a Child.

In the future, do you have any payment plans online?

—Christine Murphy Milford CT

Thank you for asking about online subscription options. Readers who would like to pay for their subscription online can visit www.milfordliving. com to make a payment. Through our website, readers can create a new subscription, renew a subscription, and even place an order for a gift subscription. All subscriptions are processed as soon as possible. New subscribers will be added to the next issue cycle. Also, you can read the whole issue of Milford Living on our website. We hope

you enjoy each issue in print and digitally for years to come!

Keep those recipes coming from our local residents and businesses.

—Robert Buzelle Milford CT

We are so fortunate to have so many delightful restaurants as part of our vibrant business community willing to share their love of cooking with all of us. We will be sure to keep those recipes coming! Note to all readers: We’d love to share your favorite recipe with our readers, so please email suzanne@milfordliving.com.

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

and in-laws have been involved in one way or another for years, and includes her husband Mark who leads the 1st Milford Militia that escorts the Volunteers during events. “For everyone, there’s a huge sense of family and belonging, friendship, and camaraderie.”

“The Milford Volunteers Ancient Fife and Drum Corps, currently made up of five family units with members ranging from 9-80 years old, was founded in 1964 as the West Main Street School Fife and Drum Corps by Stuart Sears, a teacher at the school,” recounts assistant director John D’Amico Jr. D’Amico has assumed various leadership roles since 1982, including captain of the color guard, drum sergeant, drum major, corps president, chairman of the board, and co-director. He’s performed throughout New England, New York, Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, and in Georgia as part of the 1996 Olympics festivities.

Marching to Historic Music

Imagine the thrill of marching in a parade. Not just any parade, but one celebrating our nation’s musical traditions. You’re dressed in colonial period costume, playing historic instruments in tempo with the ensemble, flanked by waving flags as the crowd sings, claps, and cheers

“The most fun part of belonging to this group is marching and performing,” says Pattie Deer, director of the Milford Volunteers Ancient Fife and Drum Corps. Deer, who first joined the group at the ripe age of seven, still delights

in playing centuries-old tunes on the fife and bass drum with her fellow Corps members. “We come from all walks of life from across the region and include several generations,” she says. Deer’s parents, brother, nieces, sons,

The family-oriented Milford Volunteers perform at an event in Windsor, CT in 2018.

The First Milford Militia escort the Volunteers at the 2022 Milford’s St. Patrick ‘s Day Parade.

“Our mission is to perpetuate the music played by military groups from the 1700 and 1800s, accomplished by playing the instruments and wearing uniforms from that time period,” he says. “The fife and drum corps were an integral part of the Revolutionary and Civil War military units. They were responsible for keeping the cadence while the military unit was marching, keeping up the spirits of the troops, and relaying to soldiers the commands on how to move on the battlefield.”

The Milford Volunteers repertoire includes musical standards such as “America the Beautiful,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again,” and “It’s a Long Way to

Tipperary.” “We march in parades, attend musters (large, multi-corps gatherings), and perform at veteran events, Flag Day, and even dress like pirates and perform at the annual Milford Pirate Day,” says D’Amico

Growing the membership is a priority for the group. “We flourished in the ‘70s

with our membership highest in 1976 as the Bicentennial of the USA brought about a new sense of patriotism. Our numbers stayed strong through the ‘80s and ‘90s. In the new millennium, our membership started to decline. Today there are about 13-15 members who play wooden fifes and

The Milford Volunteers at Lisman Landing entertain the masses during Pirate Day 2023.

milford spotlight

period-correct tension drums that evoke the same sounds heard on battlefields during the periods of the Revolutionary War through Civil War.”

Walter Rynkiewicz, 79, a self-described “lifer” with the Milford Volunteers, is confident that new members will benefit from being part of the wonderful corps experience. “Whether you just want to march, play an instrument, or listen and learn on any level, we are a teaching corps and will provide you with free instruments, uniforms, and lessons from soup to nuts. We’d be grateful to have you join us!”

D’Amico agrees. “My closest friends have come from the drum corps world. We offer a chance to perform in interesting places and a

unique way to show patriotism… by playing the music of our forefathers, the founders of this great nation.”

To join or for more information, contact: Milfordvolunteers@yahoo.com

TO JOIN or for more information, contact Milfordvolunteers@yahoo.com

—Cindy Papish Gerber

Brianna Narducci marches with Keile and Tanner Flyte in Milford’s 2023 Memorial Day Parade

around town

Fannie Beach: Weathering the Years

Abuilding located on Dixon Street in the Woodmont borough of Milford, formally named the Fannie Beach Community Center, has been a fine fixture in the community for the past 105 years.

The red brick building with bright white exterior trim and molding was built as a school in 1918 at the end of World War I and is named for a beloved schoolteacher who also became the school’s principal. The structure was expanded not long after the end of World War II with the addition of more classrooms.

When looking back at the history of the Fannie Beach Community Center and its first incarnation as a school, Woodmont native Ed Bonessi, Jr. has vivid childhood memories. “The old main brick building had four classrooms, and post-WWII they added a portable which had two classrooms. That building was there until 1966 when they

literally picked the building up and moved it to the end of Clinton Street to a dead end and gave it to the borough for use as Borough Hall.”

That’s when a permanent addition was at-

SUZANNE CAHILL(2)

The Fannie Beach Community Center in Woodmont.

A table at the end of the main hallway commerates the history of the center.

tached to the original Fannie facility which “contained a cafeteria, gymnasium, and other classrooms,” notes Bonessi. That addition was opened in 1967.

Through the years many Woodmont families have looked upon the Fannie Beach facility and the neighborhood with fond memories and have remained in the area. Bonessi purchased a nearby house 30 years ago across the

street from his parents. “My son Ed Bonessi III bought one across the street from Fannie Beach four years ago,” says Bonessi Sr.

The interior of the original Fannie Beach building still contains the large pre-World War II-era Works Progress Administration (WPA) paintings on either side of the main lobby hallway in addition to some smaller paintings. The WPA was established under Franklin Lots

SUZANNE CAHILL

Two WPA murals, including this ode to Mother Goose nursery rhymes, can be found in the main hall of the lobby of the Fannie Beach Community Center.

around town

D. Roosevelt’s famed New Deal program that employed millions of jobseekers, including artists, to carry out public works projects during the Great Depression. “New murals were painted years later in the 1980s or 1990s in other parts of the building,” recalls Bonessi, “but not to the degree of these two huge WPA-funded projects during the Depression.”

As the Baby Boom population grew, the school grades were moved away from Fannie Beach as more schools were built to accommodate the growing population. However, the building continued operating, its use changing with the changing times.

It was closed as a school around 1981 and became a library.

“In the early ‘80s the city was closing the branches of the libraries, so the administrators of the Woodmont Borough decided to pick up the cost and make it a volunteer library,” states Bonessi. “The Woodmont Volunteer Library is still going strong after 40 years.”

Also operating within the Fannie Beach Community Center is the Literacy Volunteers of Southern Connecticut (LVSCT). LVSCT executive director Luisa Viladas also appreci-

wonderful knowing my weekend is mine and I don’t have to waste my precious free time cleaning bathrooms and dusting. Our cleaner is more then a help-she is a blessing of time and joy. Thank

The Ellen Aftamanow Woodmont Volunteer Library is the longest running volunteer library in the State of Connecticut.

SUZANNE CAHILL

ates the striking WPA murals, calling them “an important feature of the building.”

The center also houses programs for the public ranging from preschool, scouting

troops, basketball, and special needs classes. “The second floor of the building contains the library, the literacy volunteer office, and a meeting room. The first floor contains two classrooms, gymnasium, and the pre-school has three classrooms and an office,” says recreation supervisor Rob Hayes.

“The special needs program at Fannie

Beach is fast-growing and wildly popular, run by three wonderful women,” says director of recreation Bill Garfield. “They run 13 classes per season, and produce an annual play for a sold-out audience. It’s grown to become a special thing for our department and the city. It really warms your heart to see these amazing performances,” Garfield says.

Despite the various uses through the years, the Fannie Beach Community Center is, as Bonessi describes it, a trace of nostalgia in his voice, “a neat old building.” The facility is wellmaintained and has weathered the changes in the world around it for over a century.

—Jason J. Marchi

Attorney Joseph Tramuta

The library is run on a daily basis by volunteers. A card catalogue and paper library cards are still used in the old-style library.

SUZANNE CAHILL

Interview with a Zombie

Fun fact: zombies like Dunkin: ice coffee, milk, and four sugars. Scott Bouve has a sweet tooth and a unique hobby. For the last 18 years, around October, he turns himself into a zombie for fun. Then, in the weeks after October 31st, he troves the Halloween costume stores for 50% off makeup and accessories. “I probably have over a thousand hours spent building haunted houses and dressing up,” says Bouve. He uses himself, willing friends, and family as a canvas to create ever more elaborate and creepy characters. “I’m all self-taught,” says Bouve. “I have no art background.” It’s time-consuming work, taking hours to apply. For Bouve, who grew up in East Haven and has his own masonry business, it can also mean retrofitting your work truck with an assortment of airbrushes, paint, prosthetics, and contact lenses that make your eyes look like white marbles. He finds it is fun to scare people, and he is not alone.

Generation after generation loves the gory mess of zombie movies, with its ever more so-

phisticated makeup and computer-generated imaging. Undead aficionados on the internet

list 272 zombie pics dating back to 1932, starting with White Zombie starring Bela Lugosi. Our fascination with them never seems to wane. Why the fanbase for something so disturbing? Perhaps we view zombies like a toxic boyfriend who doesn’t talk much then turns around and bites you in the end; something to be avoided but ubiquitous. Maybe it’s because unlike someone who buys the creepy mansion on the hill and is almost asking for a ghost encounter, zombies are thrust upon us without warning. In the morning, you’re cleaning the house and by afternoon you’re barricading yourself and killing zombies with a dull kitchen knife. Who knew?

For Bouve, the fascination began early. “When I saw my first zombie movie—my father took us to the old Branford Drive-In—I was probably five or six. It was Dawn of the Dead (1978), which scared the bejesus out of me for many years…the scare factor you get is fantastic.”

The allure of zombies may also be their familiarity. You could be eaten by your babysitter or your best friend. It’s so random. And zombies are taciturn; no great dialogue, no ability to reason with them. (Screenwriters must love zombie movies.) Fifty percent or more of the cast just groans—no character development necessary. This zombie trait appeals to Bouve. “I’m not a big talker. You don’t really have to do much,” he says. “Visual

appearance and stature do the work.”

From September to October 31st, you can find Bouve building his own haunted backyard with homemade tombstones, scaring teenagers at one of many haunted houses in Connecticut, or in Milford, being a fast-moving zombie during the annual Walnut Beach Zombie 5K, this year scheduled for October 28th.

What do zombie lovers do in the offseason? Bouve likes B horror movies. “The worse they are, the better I like them,” he says. However, he loves the new generation of zombie cinema, finding its application of computer-generated imaging hard to beat. He particularly admires the zombie makeup

in the never-ending Walking Dead TV series, with enough decaying actors to fill a stadium. What’s a zombie movie he really appreciates? He notes Shaun of the Dead (2004) for its “cheeky British humor with horror.”

If you wish to explore this vast genre, here are the top-grossing zombie movies of all time:

1. Dawn of the Dead (2004)

2. Zombieland (2009)

3. Warm Bodies (2013)

4. Zombieland Double Tap (2019)

5. World War Z (2013)

The wait won’t be long for another one to scare and entertain us to death.

—S.G. Patrick

Clay Day arts + artisans

Picture a scene in a dimly lit loft apartment, a potter’s wheel slowly spinning. A woman’s hands start to mold wet clay. The Righteous Brothers can be heard singing “Unchained Melody.” As the female’s hands delicately work the wheel, they are joined by a man’s. The camera pans out and it’s Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze. It gets romantic and messy. There’s flying clay, seductive music, shirtless Swayze, and Demi’s pixie haircut. I don’t quite remember the plot to the film Ghost, but I do remember all the clay. Now, thanks to Milford Pottery Arts and Sunshine Ceramic Studios, Milford has two locations where you can have the exact same experience. Well, you won’t have the movie stars, but you can create and paint your very own ceramics and possibly even listen to the Righteous Brothers.

Ceramics is one of the oldest art forms in the world. Around 30,000 years ago, humans began to mold clay into shapes that represented the world they lived in. They made the animals they hunted (and that hunted them), and sculpted figures that represented fertility and their deities. Humans then moved on to creating cooking pots, drinking vessels, and storage jars. Jump ahead a few thousand years and ceramics are still a part of our daily lives. Whereas most of us are content to just buy a vase or coffee mug, many people enjoy the art of making pottery and ceramics for the relaxation and therapeutic benefits, as well as a creative form of self-expression.

Owner Marie Chutjian quit her job as a secondgrade teacher in West Haven to open Sunshine Ceramics (22 Broad Street) this past summer. She knew she was taking a big risk, but after a “life changing event,” she felt it was important to bring the peace and curative effects she gained

Over 30,000

from creating pottery to the people of Milford.

“I’ve been making ceramics and doing pottery since high school, but in college I had a minor in studio art with a concentration in ceramics,” says Chutjian. “Although I love making all kinds of art, the act of working with clay and putting it on

SUNSHINE CERAMICS

Sunshine Ceramics owner Marie Chutjian, with Birdie, in her studio on 22 Broad Street.

years ago, humans first developed ceramic art. The tradition of molding clay continues today.

the wheel is enjoyable and calming. I also love teaching and helping people gain that rewarding feeling of creating something from scratch that a short time ago was just a lump of clay.”

Standing in the studio, Chutjian’s love of art is apparent: from the ceramics on the shelves, brightly colored walls covered in flowers and dandelions, to the animal and plants wallpaper in the bathroom, the studio is a bright, inviting world designed to help expand creativity. Among the artwork is a shelf holding candy jars, a photograph, and a bright pink neon sign that reads “Wanda’s.” It’s Chutjian’s tribute to Wanda Hornack and her candy store, Wanda’s Sugar Shack, that occupied the same space for 40 years. “I

used to love coming here growing up,” says Chutjian. “I felt I should honor her longevity and the history of what was here with this display. It brings good vibes.”

Holding her year-old studio dog, Birdie, Marie says, “If I’m going to throw myself into this, I want to create a space to be a home away from home. My friends visit, we get guests, and then we make art and create.”

Both Sunshine Ceramics and Milford Pottery Arts offer lessons and classes for absolute beginners to those who have thrown clay a time or two.

Family owned since 1976, we offer a selection of fine jewelry, engagement rings, GIA certified diamonds, lab grown diamonds, estate jewelry and watches, fashionable silver designs and Citizen watches. On site goldsmith, custom work, repair, appraisals. Gift cards available.

MILFORD POTTERY ARTS

Artists Chris Alexiades and Laura Litvinoff of Milford Pottery Arts.

arts + artisans

The two artists who make up Milford Pottery Arts, (567 Boston Post Road) Chris Alexiades and Laura Litvinoff, met at Southern Connecticut State University in 2000-2001, bonded over ceramics and playing pool, and have had a working relationship ever since. As teachers, they both believe in “inspiring creativity and craftsmanship.” “As artists, we embrace a shared philosophy that working in clay is a process that changes you,” says Alexiades. “Everyone learns differently and with small class sizes we can embrace those differences on a personal level that helps you grow…it becomes a collaboration and a more intimate exchange.”

To share that philosophy further, they offer classes that range in wheel throwing (the art of

forming clay into shapes on a potter’s wheel) and hand building (creating forms out of clay with your hands.) They also teach classes in glazing techniques, the step of adding color and a glass-like covering on ceramics, including

dipping, dripping, brushing, and spraying. Class schedules are posted on their website.

Sunshine Ceramic studios offers trial sessions to try your hand at sculpting or the wheel, private lessons, and two-hour classes that meet

Milford Pottery Arts offers small class sizes that offer individualized attention in ther ceramic arts.

once a week for eight weeks. Workshops to help build a specific item such as a mug or a bowl, paint your own pre-made ceramics, group parties for kids, team building, or any other occasion are also available. The studio will also host holiday events and offer seasonal ceramic making and painting fun with Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas themes.

During one visit there were kids and adults painting their own ceramics and using the potter’s wheel. Chutjian’s college friend Casey Potts (yes that’s her real name) was working on the wheel, while siblings Lochlyn, Dempsey, Finley, and Lagan Dreyer quietly painted ceramics. Also taking advantage of art’s therapeutic qualities was Roo Bosco, a high

school social studies teacher from Milford who commutes all the way to New Canaan for work. “This is a good stress reliever and a really nice place that’s close to home,” Bosco says.

The small businesses that make up Milford’s community are vital. It’s the little shops and the personalities who put their dreams and lives and fortunes into building them that make the town a unique and welcoming destination. Both Sunshine Studios and Milford Pottery Arts are part of that vital community.

—Gerry McGuire

CHECK OUT sunshineceramicstudios.com and milfordpotteryarts.com for more information on classes and schedules.

Meet Dr. Marko Lujic

Dr. Lujic grew up in North Haven and studied at Yale University, receiving his undergraduate degree in biology. He went to St. George’s Medical School in Grenada and came back to Connecticut for his residency in General Surgery at Yale. After graduation, Dr. Lujic was a general surgeon for seven years. He became inspired by the “science forward” and progressive aspects of precision medicine and, after much studying, decided to shift his focus to preventative care. His skill set in surgery and passion for heath has led to helping people age better and achieve a better quality of life through the art and science of age management.

Age Healthier... Live Happier

At HyperFit MD, we use a proactive, preventative approach and develop personalized, science forward solutions that help you take care of your health and live life to the fullest.

Charles Guglin, MD, FACS, Francesca Guglin, Marko Lujic, MD, MPH and Melanie Gombos, RN

Good Deal Design at home

Tired of your humdrum décor but don’t feel like you have the funds to make it photo worthy? Think again. In the age of Facebook Marketplace and other online resources, there are a plethora of affordable ways to add a bit of panache to your living space.

Whether it’s vintage or modern, you’ll find something to suit your style waiting to become part of your home decor. Furniture, lamps, and tables from the past were built to last. Imagine not having to deal with bits, numbered bags of screws, and allen wrenches that cause frustration when assembling new furniture. (There’s a good chance it will break in three years...or less.)

The beauty of online marketplace sites is that you can find nearly anything you’re looking for. Need a kitchen table and chairs, plant stands, and

plants? Ottomans, artwork, toys, and more are waiting for new homes—just like the Island of Misfit Toys! If you have a mismatched toy, table, or chair you got before you started watching HGTV, sell it.

Always a bargain hunter, Lillian Finch loves a yard sale. She looks forward to May and September when bulk pickup season is in full swing. “I love dump pickin’ season, riding through town when the curbs begin to populate with treasures,” says Finch. “It’s amazing what you can find. Modifying an item from trash to treasure is rewarding. I have plenty of paint.” Finch continues,

“Free is great, but when you’re looking for something specific, there’s always Facebook Marketplace. There are several Milford pages with local bargains.”

J.K. Hill agrees. “When I bought

my house a few years ago, I was looking for great deals on furniture and such. A friend of mine turned me on to Facebook Marketplace,” says Hill. “I needed a small table for my kitchen and two interesting chairs. I found a

J.K. HILL

(Left) A print of “The Kiss” found in a dumpster; (Right) A table and chairs found on Facebook Marketplace.

LILLIAN FINCH

table for $40 and a pair of chairs for $30. Since then, I discovered Auction Ninja. During my search, I found a couple of mirrors for my living room and a beautiful bird painting for my dining room. ReStore is also a great spot to find what you’re looking for, and the proceeds go to the nonprofit Habitat for Humanity.”

If you really enjoy getting items for free, check out the Buy Nothing groups on Facebook for Milford and surrounding towns. Everything is free! Items run the gamut and you never know what will pop up. Plus, no haggling!

Tables, plants, and interesting pieces all found on Facebook Marketplace.

If you message someone on Buy Nothing, it’s usually a “I’ll leave it on the porch scenario.” Neighbors helping neighbors.

You’ll also want to check out Laura’s Treasure Trove in the basement of the Mary Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church (168 Broad Street) with its unique offering of new and gently used items. Browse jewelry, housewares, toys and games, books, clothing, china,

LILLIAN FINCH

at home

and collectibles. They’re having a “1/2 Price Sale” of treasures, along with a variety of Christmas items for sale, on Saturday, October 21, from 9:30 am – 3:00 p.m. All proceeds benefit the missions of the church. (Cash only/no bills over $20.)

Need ideas? Just take a good look around your home and evaluate. What do you see that gives you the drabs? Editing your décor and furnishings is a good place to start. That lamp you got from your aunt may be

With the exception of the box, all of these items were found curbside.

vintage, but not in a good way. Look for alternative ways to arrange your furniture. Ditch that dingy side table with the water rings on it. Brighten up your walls with a mirror or two to help enhance the brightness of your space. Don’t be afraid to try something out of your comfort zone—it may turn into a pleasant addition to your home.

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

LILLIAN FINCH

Volunteers Impact Literacy

The Literary Volunteers of Southern Connecticut (LVSCT) has been servicing the Milford community and others for nearly 30 years. Founded in 1994, the LVSCT is a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting adults in learning to read, write, and speak English with proficiency and confidence.

The LVSCT has several locations throughout Southern Connecticut, including satellite locations in the Milford and Stratford libraries, and the Fannie Beach Center in Woodmont, which houses literacy volunteers. The organization is headed by executive director Luisa Viladas.

“For nearly 30 years, LVSCT has worked to increase literacy in the Greater Milford, Stratford, and West Haven areas by offering quality programs to adult English language learners,” says Viladas. “Our mission is to provide services at no cost to adults

who wish to learn the English language or enhance the reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension skills necessary to lead productive lives in our community.”

While Connecticut Public Schools offer numerous resources to children working to learn the English language, there are fewer resources available to adult English language learners.

“LVSCT envisions a community of harmony and abundance where all people and their children attain their educational and life goals and become functioning and contributing members of their community and society,” says Viladas.

The LVSCT and its many volunteers work to help English language learners adapt to an English-speaking society. In addition to English language lessons, the group offers special topic classes such as pronunciation, grammar, conversation, and American culture.

The impact of volunteers over the past 29 years does not go unnoticed. With the help of the LVSCT, English language learners have been able to enter higher education, improve

COURTESY OF LVSCT(2)

LVSCT volunteer tutors Chip Warren and Gwen Russo help out at Woodmont Day.

An international buffet of dishes contributed by LVSCT students and tutors was a highlight of the organization’s 2023 Multicultural Celebration held in May.

their careers, obtain GEDs and citizenship, earn their driver’s license, and gain confidence to the extent that they become more involved in their community.

The LVSCT is proud of its accomplishments and has great hopes and goals for the future.

“In the near future, we are working to reduce our student waiting list and significantly increase the number of English language learners being served free of charge by LVSCT,” says Viladas. “Our overarching goal is to help more English language learners gain the proficiency in English they need to obtain new or better

jobs, enter job training and educational programs, become U.S. citizens, and contribute to the fiscal and cultural health of their communities.”

The LVSCT is always looking for more

volunteers and tutors to join their initiative. Adults interested in tutoring must be at least 18 years old, fluent in English, and have two to three hours per week to donate. Information about tutoring and applications are available at lvsct.org.

For those unable to tutor but still interested in helping the LSVCT fulfill its mission, donations can also be made at lvsct.org. Donations help to purchase textbooks and resources for English language learners, as well as producing tutor training materials.

—Annabel Wardman

LVSCT volunteer tutor Jane Evans works with student Aneta Hoffman, who came to the U.S. from Poland.

COURTESY OF LVSCT

Cozy Up to Milford’s Best Fall Soups

Nothing complements a crisp, cool autumn day like a hot bowl of delicious soup. For many people fall is pumpkin spice season, but some of us prefer the warmth and comfort of soup. As seasonal produce like squash, apples, carrots, and potatoes arrive in the markets, it’s time to make the most of the season’s bounty. There’s no better way to beat the chill on a cold evening than by having the best soup recipes on hand. Listed below are some great autumn soups from local restaurants, along with recipes for making them at home.

FIVE-SPICE BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND CARROT BISQUE

This delicious soup is a favorite during the fall at Stonebridge Restaurant downtown. Featuring their go-to seasonings, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pure maple syrup, this dish is perfectly suited for the autumn season.

“In the fall, we love making butternut squash bisque. We serve it on Thanksgiving every year at the restaurant,” says Chef Brett Keating.

“We sometimes even add a little espresso and sweetened coconut milk. For a mild natural sweetness and a touch of complexity, I added Chinese Five Spice to the following recipe.”

INGREDIENTS:

1 21/2 pound butternut squash, cubed

1/4 cup butter

1 onion, chopped

3 large carrots, coarsely chopped

2 stalks celery, coarsely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Peel, seed, and cube butternut squash.

2. In a six-quart Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat.

3. Add onion, carrot, and celery.

4. Cook, stirring frequently, until veggies are tender.

5. Add the squash and the other remaining ingredients.

6. Bring to a boil; reduce heat.

7. Cover and simmer

4 cups milk

2 cups heavy cream

2 cups water

1 tablespoon Chinese Five Spice

1/4 cup honey

1/2 tablespoon cinnamon

1/4 cup brown sugar

for about 45 minutes or until veggies are tender.

8. Allow to cool slightly.

9. Using an immersion blender, puree while in the pot. You can also puree in a blender, in smaller batches, but use caution; if the cover on the blender doesn’t allow the steam to vent the top can pop off.

SWEET POTATO CHICKEN STEW

Bobette’s Takeout Bistro has been known for its award-winning soups in Milford for more than 30 years. It’s no surprise that they offer a variety of tasty soups for the fall season. This is a favorite.

INGREDIENTS:

1 medium chopped onion

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

1 tablespoon dill weed

2 lbs. chopped chicken

5 lbs. peeled sweet potatoes

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a soup pot, sauté onions, garlic, dill weed, and Madeira wine with a quart of water and carrots. Cook until carrots are tender.

2. Add sweet potatoes and

2 lbs. peeled, circular-cut carrots

6 oz. chicken base

2 tablespoons of Madeira wine

1 lbs. green beans

enough water to cover and cook until sweet potatoes are tender.

3. Add chicken base.

4. Add chicken and green beans and cook to 165 degrees.

5. Serve and enjoy!

milford morsels

ESCAROLE BEAN AND SAUSAGE STEW

Bin 100 restaurant’s autumn special features melt-in-yourmouth white beans and Italian sausage, flavored with herbs and seasonings, and layered with irresistible flavors and textures.

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup Spanish onion, diced

3 cloves roughly chopped fresh garlic

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 15 oz. cans of white kidney beans with liquid

1 lb. of loose, sweet

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil on medium heat. Add garlic and onion and stir until onion is translucent.

2. Add tomato paste and continue stirring for one minute.

HOW TO BLANCH ESCAROLE:

Fill a large pot with 6 quarts of water and bring to a boil. While waiting for the water to boil, cut the root ends off of the two

Italian sausage, browned and drained

2 heads of chopped

3. Add the beans, including the liquid, and cook for two more minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the escarole, chicken broth, and sausage.

escarole heads and remove any wilted outer leaves. Chop escarole into 2-inch squares. Soak chopped escarole in a bowl filled with cold water, rinse, and drain into a

blanched escarole (see instructions below)

4 cups chicken broth

Grated parmesan cheese and crusty bread for serving

The beauty of soups is that you can customize them to your taste by adjusting the seasonings, ingredients, and consistency. For the perfect

5. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil while stirring occasionally.

6. Turn heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes.

colander. Repeat the process 2 or 3 times or until there is no more sand remaining in the bowl. Once the water boils, add the chopped escarole and stir. Bring to a boil

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Dish into bowls and top with grated parmesan cheese when serving.

again. Remove from the stove, drain water, and set aside. NOTE: This can be done in advance a day prior and refrigerated.

fall soup, experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

—Maya Rosado

Musical Milford

By Susan Carroll Dwyer

The M.A.C.

The Milford Arts Council, a.k.a. The MAC, offers something for everyone. “Music programming at the MAC is widely varied from classical to jazz to blues to folk and more,” states Paige Miglio, executive director. “Staff

and committees strive to bring excellence in musicianship that audiences don’t normally see at area venues. We provide an intimate and up-close experience with fantastic acoustics and comfortable surroundings.”

If you want to perform, sign up for Open

Mic Night. “Open Mic is alive and kicking,” says Miglio. “It is every second Wednesday, except October, when it’s the first Wednesday.” For more information about happenings at MAC, visit milfordarts.org.

Static Era Records

Jay Reason helped vinyl make a comeback in Milford, but Static Era is also a music label. Behind the scenes, Reason is a digital producer and helps various musicians reach beyond the stage. “Artists now possess unprecedented control over their music distribution and monetization,” Reason says.

(Left) The Ryan Sands Trio jazzes up the MAC; (Right) a Barbie-themed event at Static Era Records.

If you love music…and who doesn’t, Milford has much to offer. Rock, jazz, blues, classical, country, folk, show tunes, metal, and new wave can be found in shops, theaters, by the shore, and once a year on porches throughout town. Whether you enjoy listening, learning, or playing, you’re in the right place.

“After the creative recording process is complete, musicians have many tools and services to ensure their music reaches an audience and generates revenue. Services like DistroKid and TuneCore enable artists to upload and distribute their music to platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. This helps musicians retain greater control over their music and the global reach of these platforms ensures that artists have the potential to connect with a diverse and widespread audience.”

Reason helps artists engage listeners. “YouTube’s Partner Program allows creators to monetize their video content. With YouTube, sharing music videos allows bands to offer consistent content to attract a larger audience. Artists can monetize their brand through merchandise sales, clothing, accessories, and physical copies of albums. Platforms like Merchbar provide tools for artists to sell their merchandise.” For more information, visit staticrecords.com.

Milford Performance Center

In 2016, Steve Cooper created the Milford Performance Center. “I was brought up in a musical and thespian family and majored in music before starting my career in art and photography. Over the years, I had built many connections in the music business as I worked with many artists on assignment.”

Cooper’s lightbulb moment? “I realized in 2016 that Milford was a great location and had an underused auditorium in the Parsons Complex, so I decided to start the non-profit Milford Performance Center.” He continues, “The idea to bring large-

(Left) The Lords of 52nd Street, Billy Joel’s original band perform at MPC; (Below) Ken Sura with some of the music equipment he fixes and sells.

STEVE COOPER

SUSAN CARROLL DWYER

scale concerts, comedy, and theatrical events was much needed. MPC has helped fill restaurants and hotels as well as donations of thousands per year to other non-profit agencies in town.”

MPC has hosted many well-known acts, including ShaNaNa, Gary Pucket, Herman’s Hermits, Arlo Guthrie, and renowned jazz artists Cindy Bradly, Jaqiem Joyner, and Milford’s own Jay Rowe. “Ticket buyers can look forward to upcoming performances such as Gary Lewis and the Playboys with Mitch Ryder, The Lords of 52nd Street, and more. For additional information and tickets visit: milfordperformancecenter.org.

Audio Nexus

Former Jonathan Law band member Ken Sura turned his passion for music into a business by repairing and renovating sound equipment. “In 2002 I founded Audio Nexus. As a musician myself and an electronics industry

veteran, I thought it would be interesting to be “behind the scenes” with other musicians,” says Sura. “Knowing what it’s like to be on a stage, I put myself in my customers’ shoes to ensure they don’t just have a ‘repaired’ electronic device. I’ve worked with hundreds if not thousands of musicians and enjoyed many great conversations with them. It’s not just the repairing of gear but the comradery of the local entertainment industry. I’ve also done work for Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth (of Talking Heads), Alan Gorrie (Average White Band), and Denny Laine (Paul McCartney & Wings). It’s a lot of work, but I have no regrets. It has been a great journey and I’m working on setting up a new Buy, Sell, and Trade storefront.” For more information, call 203-876-8506 or visit the shop at 92 Bridgeport Avenue.

Route 1 Guitars

In 1990, Route 1 was founded by Michael and Bob Nunno with the coolest storefront in town: a window full of guitars. The shop has been in the heart of Devon for 33 years. In 2005 it was purchased by Gail and John Bruno, who still operate the shop.

Former owner Mike Nunno is still here as a teacher and helps out with the shop whenever possible. “We carry a wide variety of acoustic and electric guitar brands,” says Gail Bruno. “We offer both new and used instruments and offer pre-rented band instruments at discounted prices.” They also offer instrument lessons. “We have a licensed public school instructor teaching for us who specializes in grades K-12, and one teacher has been with us all 33 years,” explains Bruno. “We rent band instruments and string instruments as well as

Gail & John Bruno’s Route 1 Guitars remains a mom and pop shop helping local musicians with instruments and lessons.

MARYALICE MANNING

stocking band accessories, school lesson books, and cleaning kits.”

“We are one of the few ‘Mom and Pop’ shops left,” Bruno concedes. “The big chain stores and the internet make it a challenge, but we have always loved having a small shop like ours and what we can do for a community. Seeing students and customers evolve, even seeing some getting to perform in bands and tour worldwide.” Route 1 also provides lessons for special needs students. “It’s very therapeutic. We have seen music help students with overall performance in school and in many other ways,” Bruno smiles. “I love to see their excitement to play. They want to see every instrument and I love to show them all we

have.” For more information visit Route1Guitars.com.

The Wall Street Theater

Milford Living publisher Suzanne Cahill wears more than a few hats, including having restored and programmed the historic Wall Street Theater in Norwalk, CT. “It’s been an incredible experience to take a building that hadn’t been used in over two decades and transform it into an arts and entertainment venue charged with entertaining the greater community,” says Cahill. “As a nonprofit organization, it feels so good to give back in such a positive way. Ticket purchasers come from all over, and we enjoy a robust follow-

ing from Milford as well. With upcoming shows such as legendary guitarist Ottmar Liebert, vocalist Suzanne Vega, alt-rockers The Smithereens, Grammy Award-winning musician Jose Feliciano and so much more on the slate, there is something for everyone.” For more information about upcoming performances visit wallstreettheater.org.

Fairfield Theater Company

As the producing artistic director for the Fairfield Theater Company, Milford resident

Suzanne Cahill on the balcony at the historic Wall Street Theater in Norwalk.

MARYALICE MANNING BACKGROUND PATTERN: FREEPIK.COM

John Reid has “the overall responsibility for the programming, management, and leadership of the organization. I started there in 2012,” says Reid. “We produce over 250 concerts, films, comedy shows, fine art exhibits, and cultural events annually.” Reid admits, “One thing that I really love is seeing the faces of the fans when their fa vorite artist hits the stage when the music starts. People are often visibly transformed as they lose themselves in the music, and you can see the joy and rapture, which is a constant reminder to me of the healing power of music.” For more information on upcoming events visit fairfieldtheatre.org

Milford’s John Reid leads the artistic programming, management, and leadership of The Fairfield Theater Company and The Warehouse in Fairfield.

COURTESY OF FAIRFIELD THEATER COMPANY.

HISTORIC DISTRICT A DOORWAY TO MILFORD’S PAST

BY MIKE PATRICK

OOn a leisurely walk around Milford’s Historic District this past summer, Joseph Barnes paused in front of a somewhat unremarkable-looking house at 61 North Street. It was sided in dark, apple-red clapboard with windows edged in white and a chimney rising from the center of the roof. Drive past it on your way to downtown, and you might regard it as just another house. But amble by, as Barnes did, and you’ll see that the house tells a story—one that goes back hundreds of years, to the very founding of Milford.

Almost every property in the city’s Historic District has a similar story to tell to anyone who spends a sunny day strolling the area and streets surrounding the duck pond.

“Being grounded and having your history and knowing where you’re at, I think, is a wonderful cure for many of the ills our society has,” Barnes says, speaking from the law office he keeps in his own historic house further down North Street. “Milford has a lot of historical grounding.”

Barnes pointed out the letter “B” affixed to the red house’s chimney, and the date 1639 under it “It’s a historic house,” Barnes says. “It’s one of the oldest houses in the neighborhood.”

The “B” stands for Buckingham. Thomas Buckingham, a founder of the New Haven Colony, moved to

Milford from Boston in 1639, and that same year was allocated the plot of land on North Street. “The lots all go back that far,” Barnes says. “By 1650, you could still buy a lot, and if it was a nice lot you had to pay 25 shillings for it. A not-sonice lot was 20 shillings.”

Although local records suggest the Buckingham House was built around 1640, documents from the National Register of Historic Places, which has listed the property since 1977, show it was built about 1725. Those same federal records acknowledge, however, that an earlier house might have stood on the property prior. That would mean that, even then, Milford’s older properties were being demolished to make way for newer ones.

More than 200 years later, the Milford Historic District was created

MARYALICE MANNING

The Buckingham House sits on a plot of land that was deeded to Milford founder Thomas Buckingham in 1639.

to help the city balance the fine line between respecting the past and building toward the future.

By the time the nation celebrated its bicentennial in 1976, Milford had long before celebrated its tercentennial. It might have been the nation’s 200th birthday that prompted Milford to begin its plan to preserve and protect its many historic properties, including Colonial-era buildings that circle around and about the Wepawaug River in the city’s center.

Dick Platt, who was an original member of the Historic District Commission, said he can’t recall if the bicentennial or any pressing issue was the motivation. “I had been president of Historical Society back in the early ’70s, so I guess that’s how they got me on it,” he recalls. “And I was head of the Bicentennial Observance Committee in ’76.”

Now 90, Platt, a descendant of one of Milford’s founding families, was a history teacher for 35 years, and was Milford’s city historian from 1999 to 2014.

Platt said the district runs “…basically North Street from a little bit below the Post Road, down to River Street and then West River Street; also, from about Bridge Street down to West Main Street, also including the First Church of Christ.”

Within that geographic area, the owners of dozens of historical properties must comply with rules that govern what changes can be made to the properties’ exteriors. The rules are in place

to “preserve the integrity of the neighborhood, number one, and the integrity of the house architecturally,” explains Suzanne Whitaker, a commissioner who serves as secretary of the Historic District Commission.

“That’s important to us, just to make sure that it conforms with surrounding homes,” she says. “We have no jurisdiction obviously inside, but we do on the outside, and if anything changes, they need to come to us for approval. Fencing is also under our jurisdiction.”

Most homeowners are happy to comply, she says.

“The applicants that come to us, they’re also trying to maintain the integrity of the Historic District and they’re proud to do that,” she says. “They buy these

homes, and they want to do the improvements in accordance with the history of the home. They really do work with us, and we work with them as much as we can.”

But living in a historic home and preserving its architectural integrity does not mean these homeowners are condemned to live without 21st century technology or conveniences.

Property owners within the Historic District have been allowed to build modern additions and even add solar panels to their roofs, as long as the original street view of the house is preserved, Whitaker says.

“I live in the Historic District, and we put on a very large addition and modified our kitchen about 11 years ago,” says Michele

Kramer. “But it’s not visible from the street. It’s perfectly modern, although obviously we tried to be sensitive to the history of the house.”

Kramer is vice-chair of the Historic District Commission and president of the Milford Preservation Trust, an organization that was born out of a fight to protect one of the oldest houses in the district from demolition.

The story of that property puts us back on North Street where, a short walk from the Thomas Buckingham House, stands the John Downs House, known colloquially as the “Minuteman House.”

Here, John Downs, a Minuteman, teacher, and weaver, kept a diary about his exploits that survives to this day as one of

the most important first-person documents of Connecticut’s role in the Revolutionary War.

But by the turn of the 21st century, his saltbox home had become severely dilapidated and its owner, a real estate speculator, sought to demolish it to build up to a half-dozen modern homes on the property.

Platt, then the city historian, became president of the Milford Preservation Trust, formed specifically to thwart the development plan that he and others contended would negatively change the character of Milford’s Historic District permanently.

In 2001, he addressed the state Planning and Development Committee in which he suggested the then-owner of the property of intentionally neglecting it to

make it a better candidate for demolition.

“Now, the Historic District Commission has jurisdiction over the appearance of structures within the district and has to give its approval before any alterations or additions may be made to a building and it also must approve any demolitions,” he told the panel. “But it has to stand by helplessly and frustrated when a building is neglected.”

Eventually, the Milford Preservation Trust and the city received a state grant to purchase the John Downs House. Today the city owns it, and it is managed by the trust. A state historical marker

in front declares it “A Connecticut Minuteman’s Homestead. “When somebody wants to tear down an old building, they always say it’s ‘beyond repair,’” Platt says. “Nothing is really beyond repair. It depends on how much money you want to spend on it.”

Kramer said the John Downs House is one of the most important properties in the Historic District. “What’s wonderful about it is it’s almost the gateway from the Post Road to the district,” she says. “If you’re coming off the Post Road, that’s your sort-of point of entry into the district, around the ponds and all of that.”

And once you pass the John

(Left) The “Minuteman House” was saved from demolition. (Below) The Sanford Bristol House, also on North Street, is a wonderful example of a circa 1790s double dutch gambrel-style colonial home.

MARYALICE MANNING (2)

MARYALICE MANNING

Downs House and enter the district, she said, there are many historical homes to admire. “I would say the Mary Hepburn Smith house is a fascinating house,” Kramer says of the mansion-sized Italianate-style home on the corner of Maple Street and West River Street.

It was the summer home of wealthy Washington D.C. resident Mary Hepburn Smith, whom the Milford Preservation Trust notes helped create the parkland area around the duck pond by buying and razing the shops and factories on Maple Street.

Another prominent property in the Historic District is the Eells-Stow House, which, at circa 1700, is believed to be the oldest surviving house in Milford. It was used during the Revolutionary War to house colonial prisoners of war cast ashore who were infected with smallpox. It is now a museum operated by the Milford Historical Society.

The Milford Historical Society also operates the Nathan Clark Stockade House. Originally built in 1659, it was rebuilt in 1780 using building materials salvaged from the first structure. The society moved it to its present location on High Street from Bridgeport Avenue in the 1970s.

The Historic District is home to more than ancient houses. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, the imposing Gothic Revival building that looms over River Street, was built in 1849.

Older still is what is now the First United Church of Christ Congregational on West Main Street. Built in 1824, its history goes back to 1639, when the Rev. Peter Prudden moved from New Haven to become one of the founders of Milford and established the First Church of Christ.

A historical marker noting the site of Prudden’s original home is one of many that dot the

landscape of the Milford Historic District and serve as reminders of lost historic buildings.

There is one recognizing the site of the home of Robert Treat, a founder of Milford who became governor of Connecticut and went on to found Newark, New Jersey.

Another notes the site where regicide judges Edward Whalley and William Goffe, who had signed the death warrant for

English King Charles I before fleeing to the colonies, were hidden from the pursuing forces of King Charles II.

At the corner of West River and Maple streets, an original Boston Post Road milestone has stood since 1735 with a plaque noting its placement was by order of Benjamin Franklin.

And a small marker outside the Parsons Complex on West River Street is one that is especially meaningful to Barnes. It notes the original location of Clark’s Tavern, once visited by the first president of the United States. It was demolished in 1949 to make way for Milford High School (later to become the Parsons government building).

“We lost a wonderful bit of history right here across the river from me when the Clark Tavern was torn down. George Washington stayed there,” he says. “If you don’t preserve your history, you lose it.”

Historical markers like those pictured commemorate Milford’s storied past.

MARYALICE MANNING

Navigating School Support for Your Child

One of the many reasons people choose to move to Milford is to access a high-quality education for their children. Milford’s public schools prioritize academic programs focusing on rigorous curriculum standards, well qualified teachers, and a commitment to preparing students for college and career success.

Milford Public School facilities and technology are well maintained, and the schools’ extracurricular activities including clubs, bands, and athletics offer an opportunity to stay connected with the school

community for the entire diverse student body. A strong community influence on the schools is evident in the PTO’s collaboration with teachers at both Jonathan Law and Foran High School. According to Milford’s Profile

and Performance (P&P) Report for school year 2021-2022, the district offered virtual and in-person workshops with instructional coaches to parents with the goal of supporting learning at home.

Most students will do well in Milford Public Schools. In 2021, 92.7 percent of students graduated high school in Milford within four years. Some students struggle due to various factors, many of which were compounded by the Covid-19 pandemic and distance learning.

The same P&P Report lists 16 percent of all students as eligible for special education support. Often, parents may have a sense that their child needs more support than the school is providing, but don’t know what to do.

By law, schools must prioritize early identification and intervention for students to ensure timely support and minimize setbacks. Like all public schools in the State of Connecticut, Milford Public Schools are required to implement mental health screening procedures, as well as assessments of learning and behavior, that will enable the district to identify students who may require additional assistance.

Sometimes these supports are proactively offered, while other times parents need to initiate the process and advocate for their child independently. This may seem challenging since parental rights to seeking an appropriate education for their child are not obvious to someone who does not have a background in educational law, assessment, eligibility criteria, and interventions.

The Planning and Placement Team (PPT) process can be initiated by either the school or parents, and reviews the child’s case to determine if assessments are warranted to determine if the child requires special education services or specialized instruction.

Parents should initially document any concerns in an email to their child’s teacher, school counselor, or principal. This starts the process of informing the school of a problem, and will also be evidence that should initiate the school’s consideration for an intervention or assessment to identify a problem. If you are not getting an adequate response or support after an initial email, request a meeting with your child’s teacher or school counselor. You can also request a

formal PPT or Section 504 meeting which will bring together a school-based team with a lens toward consideration of assessment, accommodations, or specialized instruction.

These meetings will result in documentation of your concerns by the school, and you will receive a copy for your records.

It would be in your best interest to start a digital and print file of all correspondence with the school, including emails from the school documenting any concerns raised from the school, medical, and clinical records relevant to your child’s education, report cards, statements made by your child about any problems they WWW.GPARCH62.COM EMAIL:GPARCH@GMAIL.COM

experience in school, academic work samples over time, data regarding early intervention effectiveness and progress monitoring, behavioral and psycho-educational assessments, and paperwork from any schoolbased meetings.

The school district and school-based teams may have an established plan that is not consistent with best practice supports for your child. To address these challenges, it is important for parents to maintain open lines of communication with school staff, stay informed about their child’s rights and available resources, actively participate in person in the PPT or Section 504 process, and

seek additional supports through educational advocates who can guide you through the process. Keep open lines of communication with your child, stay actively involved in their lives including getting to know their teachers and friends, and trust what they share with you is legitimately affecting them, even if you are skeptical or do not fully understand.

It’s tough being a parent of a great kid who is struggling or on the educational fringe. The first thing to do is acknowledge the issue and talk about it with your child and the other supportive adults in your child’s life. Parents often blame themselves or try to hide the problem for fear of embarrassment. That doesn’t help. Often,

problems are much easier to fix when they don’t linger or compound. Your role is to support your child and help them achieve success by leading the way in overcoming tribulation and obstacles, and modeling patience and unconditional love throughout the process. Here’s what you should do first:

1. Talk about it with your child, your family, and your child’s pediatrician.

2. Send an email to the school documenting your concerns.

3. Set up a school meeting.

4. Consider support outside of school, like counseling, tutoring, private executive functioning support, or

psycho-educational testing.

5. If the school is not helpful, don’t give up. Consult a local educational advocate or attorney who represents clients in special education law.

6. You know your child best, don’t give up, ever.

Some options for local support in the greater Milford area include Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, Broadview Counseling and Assessment LLC, Milford Ed Advocates, Connecticut Legal Services, or FAVOR Connecticut.

—Michael Crane

Spirited Society

The Milford Historical Society’s (MHS) three houses each have unique histories. The Ells-Stow house, believed to be the oldest home in town, was built in 1670, and was later home to Captain Stephen Stow. On January 1, 1777, a British Man-of-War ship dropped 200 colonial prisoners stricken with smallpox on Fort Trumbull beach. Captain Stow quickly put his affairs in order and left to tend to the soldiers. Sadly, he shared the fate of 45 of the men and succumbed to smallpox.

Built in 1780, the Clark-Stockade House served as Milford’s first public hospital for many years and was moved to the Historical Society grounds in 1974. The

Bryan-Downs House, circa 1784, was saved from the wrecking ball and was moved to its present location in 1977.

The stories of these homes have intrigued

many. People have had unique experiences, such as cold spots, odd sounds, and a presence they have difficulty explaining. A member who chose to remain anonymous told their story. “One night I was alone in the Stockade House preparing for an upcoming event. I heard some odd noises and dismissed them as an old house settling. The sounds continued so I went to see if another member stopped by…I was alone. I resumed my work when suddenly

the noises ceased. It became cold in an instant—I could see my breath and heard an unrecognizable sound. I grabbed my bag and left.”

Not long after the incident, The New England Paranormal Video Research Group (NEPVRG) asked for permission to perform an investigation of the houses. Board member Rosanne Hoagland volunteered to stay with the NEPVRG as they spent the night investigating. “Don Carter, the group’s historian, set up a main control panel in the Bryan-Downs House and ran lines to the

(Above) An interesting (some might say creepy) painting in the Clark-Stockade House; (Left) The NEVPRG team ready for their investigation.

SUSAN CARROLL DWYER

COURTESY OF DON CARTER

cameras and recorders in the other houses,” Hoagland explains. “They would go through the houses, ask questions, take pictures, and then check the main console to see if they got anything.”

“I researched the properties, local histories, newspaper articles, and published legends,” Don Carter recalls of his research into the MHS properties. “We also spoke at length with the Society members to collect personal accounts and local legends.”

“Gail was our sensitive on the team. Her role was to contact and communicate with any entities that may present themselves,”

says Carter. “I would never share my background research with her prior to an investigation, so as not to contaminate her testimony. That would be considered “matrixing,” he says, referencing a paranormal expression that basically means your brain telling your eyes what to see.

“Once we discovered that one of the Historical Society members had reported a possible paranormal phenomenon from the BryanDowns House, we concentrated our equipment there. These recent personal encounters were fresh and more likely to render good evidence of

Captain Stephen Stow’s desk still resides in the home he left behind.

SUSAN CARROLL DWYER

activity,” Carter recalls.

“Our investigation of the Bryan-Downs House was intriguing. Gail, our psychic, had some fascinating revelations. She felt the presence of three separate entities, but hard data in the form of photographic, video, or audio anomalies was sparse. One very good EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) was obtained from the Eells-Stow House.

Two members of the team said they heard the phantom cries of a child in the ClarkStockade House,” says Carter.

When it comes to whether entities haunt these historic Milford buildings, Carter says, “Mostly, I feel the stories are what is truly important. History and legend are two sides of the same coin and they continue to fascinate for generations, sometimes centuries.”

For more information on the investigation and other legends, Don Carter’s book Connecticut Seaside Ghosts is available on Amazon.

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

A portrait of Samuel Eells, the first occupant of the Eells-Stow House.

SUSAN CARROLL DWYER

Milford’s Architect legacy

Within a city (or town, or borough, or village) there are constant needs and equally constant change. A good city adapts to stay viable, solvent, welcoming, and desirable. A good architect will be aware of these changes, as well as knowing the fundamentals of what makes for a livable space.

Ray Oliver was a good architect.

In Milford, Oliver was able to balance the changes in a town that grew into a city, no longer centered around the Town Green, but encompassing the growth of both suburban life and commuter life while harmoniously preserving the past for residents and visitors.

Oliver, who died suddenly last year, chose Milford over other places to live

and work because he was a true Milfordite. He fished, not just in Milford but in Mexico and in Florida. He was a great home cook. His family was built on the love and astounding friendship he shared with his wife, Alice. He and Alice participated in many of the administrative boards and social organizations that make Milford a viable city. This involvement with the governance of a growing community

is testament to a pair of truly concerned and caring residents.

Architectural Services, the company Oliver helmed, was responsible for many of the renovations, refurbishments, and ultimately, style that is present-day Milford. Understanding that the depth, height, width, and exterior of a structure must exist within the context of the streetscape, the firm specialized in bridging the old and the new, achieving a consistent vision that encompassed both.

In fact, former Mayor Ben Blake recently eulogized Oliver as “Milford’s Architect.”

Ray Oliver created many beautiful houses around Milford, all elegant but still family-friendly, while his commercial work incorporated many elements of fine living, including projects such as transforming a warehouse into our Beth-El Shelter with transitional housing. His sensitively designed condominium complexes and senior housing are pleasurable, not an eyesore, while his multi-use buildings such as Armory Square and Schooner Wharf (renamed Spinnaker Wharf), tastefully combine retail, office, and apartment rentals.

His design of St. Gabriel Church ministry building, featuring a nod to the buildings he visited in Mexico, was the first salvo to reviving the Walnut Beach area, now a thriving and active family community.

Then there are the stately buildings that continue the intent of the original edifices in the charmingly non-commercial commercial downtown such as the Milford Bank, CodyWhite Funeral Home, the offices of Coldwell

Ray Oliver: local architect, fisherman, and loyal friend of Milford.

Banker Realty, the law firm of Berchem Moses PC, and the renovation of Milford Hospital, all of which contribute deeply to the look and needs of Milford’s community.

The Milford Green remains a walkable, workable, pleasant area due to Oliver’s site-conscious designs. Stonebridge Restaurant is a focal point for visitors and residents alike, while the priceless renovation of the Northbound Railroad station into the Milford Arts Center (the MAC) welcomes and serves the community.

Arthur Stowe, city historian and longtime collaborator and friend of Ray Oliver, states

that, “Ray’s professional skill as an architect was to create functional and beautiful build-

ings that fit their community. In his quiet, gentlemanly style he got things done and every day we see the buildings that are his legacy to Milford.”

Oliver’s love of fishing and sailing led to the fine work done for all things seaworthy in Milford, including the Milford Boat Works, the Port Milford Marina, the Milford Yacht Club renovation, and both the Gulf Street Beach Pavilion and the Gulf Beach Fishing Pier, now dedicated to Ray.

“I met Ray Oliver when my dad hired him to build us a new building at Milford Boat Works in 1978,” recalls Nancy Bennett,

The Ultimate Waterfront Experience

The boundless love exuberantly shown by Ray and Alice Oliver was a pleasure to be near.

around town

who later worked with Oliver on the Harbor Commission. The boat works had been built by her grandfather in 1946 and held quite a bit of sentimental value, “though it flooded regularly with every high tide and storm,” says Bennett.

“Ray had a vision to move the old building to a new location further up on the property and to jack it up and build a new first floor underneath,” she explains. “It was beyond anything any of us could have ever envisioned. Not only is it a beautiful building but such a creative use of space. Ray won an award for the design and repurposing of the old facility.”

On a personal note, the impressively subtle renovation of the old Fladd’s music shop into what is now Café Atlantique gave me the impetus to purchase a derelict building on Broad Street. I asked Ray to mirror the Café’s exterior to “anchor” the Town Green through positioning and design of the remodel. This renovation is currently the location for Scratch Baking and a number of small businesses that are a vital part of Downtown Milford.

Ray Oliver will be missed, but his contributions to Milford stand as testimonials to his presence among us.

—Tessa Marquis

The newly dedicated Gulf Beach Fishing Pier is a reminder to enjoy the water, the sky, and the view of Charles Island.

MARYALICE MANNING

LIGHTING THE WAY

Lanterns have led the way through the night for centuries because they are lightweight, portable, safe, easily made, and can be exquisitely beautiful.

Lanterns made of tin with holes punched through the metal became a popular way to carry lit candles during colonial times. The arrangement of holes was as inventive as the maker’s imagination, and people were fascinated by the patterns tinsmiths created. It was not long before colonial families began making their own punch tin lanterns, sometimes using their family’s symbol or initials so that the bearer could be identified when walking about at night.

Punch tin lanterns were made by forcing hundreds of holes with an awl or nail through the back side of the metal before assemblage to let the candlelight escape. Other lanterns had designs made by punching the inside of the metal, but not breaking through, to make raised, round designs on the outside. Many people used both skills on the same lantern.

Tinsmiths made lanterns with hinged and latched doors that made it possible to add candles anchored to the interior base. When setting the lantern down, the door could be opened to shed more light on a specific chore, and the lantern door could then be safely latched.

Early on, people made side “windows” of flattened cow horns. The horns were soaked in water to soften them, heated, and then cut into rolled strips. This translucent material was set into the sides to let the light shine through. Later, transparent glass became cheap enough to use.

These days, we don’t need a lantern to work in a barn, walk railroad tracks to signal a train, or brighten tunnels for mines. Today, lanterns have found a place in modern home decor. Lighted pin hole lanterns create beautiful, geometric, decorative patterns on walls or other surfaces.

—Marilyn May

Photographer: Maryalice Manning

The Ancient People of Wepawaug

Long before settlers from the old world reached the Massachusetts Bay Colony, the Quinnipiac and Wepawaug people had settled along our current river systems and even on Poquahog, the native name for Charles Island. They were Stone Age people and they lived in Milford for several thousand years.

In 2011, members of the Milford Marine Institute found a full-grooved lithic (stone) axe estimated to be 4-6 thousand years old, placing its history in the Archaic period (pre-agriculture), when native peoples were primarily hunters and food gatherers. A lithic axe was used to cut down trees for firewood, build canoes, or to help manage the food supply by providing new grasslands where deer, moose, and elk would congregate. Passed down to the Neolithic period, the lithic axe would have been used for

agriculture 2,000 years ago.

Campers from the Milford Marine Institute continue to find deer antler pressure flakers, projectiles of quartz, felsite, and flint, clay pottery, and numerous hide scrapers belonging to these peoples. They sometimes find undisturbed refuse pits filled with oysters, quahog shells, and scallops. Often, they find the columella, the spire used in producing white wampum beads, and large knobbed whelks. We find lithic tools fashioned by these ancient people

Many artifacts have been found by Milford Marine Institute campers during archeological digs, some dating back to the Stone Age.

into pestles used to mash corn into samp, indicating they developed agriculture at some point.

As we walk today’s roadways and

Age people walked these same pathways, fished and swam in these same waters, raised their children along these beautiful rivers and streams, and loved the same natural areas which we all enjoy today!

—Timothy Chaucer

Congratulations to Milford’s 12U and Juniors Softball teams on a successful season. In this year’s Little League World Series, the Junior team reached the championship game the 12U

Milford Little League Girls

Softball New England/ World Series Final Four Team Roster:

Emma Bonanno, Maja Brown, Holly Coon, Marina Cosmas, Riley Fagan-Davies, Cayleigh Glynn, Dani Kotansky, Sammy Marini, Addie McKenna-Hansen, Audrey O’Connell, Emily Speringo and Grace Weber.

Manager Bryan Glynn, Coaches Mike Bonanno, and John Marini

team finished fourth in the Little League World Series. Congratulations to all the hardworking coaches, families, and friends who support and encourage all our Milford sports teams. Let’s go Milford!

Milford Junior League Girls Softball U.S. East/ United States Champions

Team Roster: Maddy Bonanno, Norah Bove, Chloe Capalbo, Abby Corris, Leah Corris, Maddie Deldin, Ariella DiOrio, Maya Fallon-Silva, Nyla Jaser, Gabby Rodriguez, Julia Scibek and Lily Stankevich. Manager Brian Corris –Coaches Dave Rodriguez, and Eric Scibek

MILFORD LITTLE LEAGUE MILFORD LITTLE LEAGUE

The Doughboy

here are upwards of 700 names inscribed on the granite base of the “doughboy” statue honoring the Milford soldiers who fought (and 22 who perished) during the First World War. The author of this unsigned, unsent postcard proudly points out, in a campy Irish brogue, “Shure an’ me own daddy is on it.” Could the author have been descended from one of the 18 Smiths listed on the memorial? Or the five Clarks? Maybe one of the nine Fords? Seven Millers? Six Keatings, Mahers, or McCarthys?

Whatever the surname, the author’s clear affinity for Milford is evident in the strong voice and opinions left behind.

Ann McGuire

The Milford Horror Film series is the brainchild of Adrian Elder, a horror film aficionado who started showing films at the Milford Public Library with free admission this year. In Eisenhower Park, Elder hosted a sold out screening of The Blair Witch Project this summer. “I want to show films outdoors in places where the atmosphere mirrors the films,” says Elder. “A double feature of Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason

Lives and Just Before Dawn will be shown in Eisenhower Park on Friday October 13th. It should be a frightfully good time!” Visit MilfordHorror.com, or search on Facebook and Instagram for more information about upcoming events.

EISENHOWER PARK

October 13th: Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives double feature with Just Before Dawn

FREE EVENTS AT THE MILFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

Haunted house-themed films for the season:

October 24th: 13 Ghosts (1960) - The original William Castle film presented with Illusion-O glasses for ghost viewing

November 28th: The House by the Cemetery (1981) - Lucio Fulci’s gory New England haunted house story

FIREHOUSE GALLERY AT WALNUT BEACH

October 27th: Shaun of the Dead (2004) Classic British zomcom (zombie comedy).

Do you experience cramping or restless legs at night?

Do

Do your legs or ankles swell or become red?