SUMMER 2015 ISSUE #11
MAGAZINE
Contents SUMMER 2015 ISSUE #11
MAGAZINE
Publisher Paul J. Grimmer, Executive Director Orange Economic Development Corporation
Editors Mary Bialy Orange Economic Development Corporation Annemarie F. Sliby PEZ Candy, Inc. Anna Accetta, Executive Director Orange Chamber of Commerce
Contributing Writers Denise Arterbury, George Catalano, Anthony Ciaburri, Alyssa Davanzo, Gina Durso, Philip Innes, Caryn Kaufman, Kimberly Kick, Daina Larkin, Karen Singer
Contributing Photographers Shannon Calvert, Philip Innes, Paula Severino
Cover Photo Paula Severino
Advertisement & Graphic Artist Paula Severino
Design & Production
Dale J Pavlik
| DJP Design LLC | djpdesignllc.com
Printing RR Donnelly OrangeLife Magazine is distributed semi-annually by the: Orange Economic Development Corporation (OEDC) 605A Orange Center Road Orange, Connecticut 06477 Phone: 203-891-1045 Fax: 203-891-1044 www.OrangeLife.net | www.facebook.com/OrangeLifeMagazine
Submit your ideas and photos If you have an idea for a story you would like to see featured in OrangeLife Magazine, please submit them to: pgrimmer@orangeedc.com Also, we are always looking for seasonal photographs for our covers (June and December). If you have any winter or summer scenes, please send them to the email above as well. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the OEDC. The OEDC shall not be held liable for typographical errors or errors in the publication or for failure to publish an advertisement. For more information, email PGrimmer@OrangeEDC.com
On the Cover Turkey Hill School Students Display their THS Anniversary Timeline.
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| MEET THE ORANGELIFE TEAM
9 13 15 18 21 24 27 29 32 35 39
BUSINESS PROFILE Flooring with a Flare for Design
43 47 50
ORANGE POLICE DEPARTMENT K-9 Officer Trent Follows his Nose
54 57 62 64 66
EDUCATION Making STEAM and Fun a Priority
COMMUNITY NEWS OVNA: Helping Keep Residents Healthy EDUCATION Turkey Hill School Celebrates 50 Years BUSINESS PROFILE The Ways to Preserve Memories are Endless NATURE An Urban Farm Right Here in Town NATURE Connecticut Natural Science Illustrations COMMUNITY NEWS RED Car Show at the Strawberry Festival HEALTH & WELLNESS A Physical Therapy for Life Initiative RESTAURANT Dinner and a Show All in One COMMUNITY NEWS The Paugusset Club is a Hometown Paradise BUSINESS The Orange Chamber of Commerce: Serving Businesses for 35 Years
NATURE Visiting the Open Spaces of Orange ATTRACTIONS Enjoy a Whole New Experience at Connecticut’s Only Zoo
BUSINESS PROFILE Residents Offered a Sip of Health AGRICULTURE Farm Stand Directory CALENDAR OF EVENTS Summer and Fall Calendar COMMUNITY NEWS Get Ready for the Annual Relay for Life SUMMER 2015
Publisher’s Letter OrangeLife Magazine was originally designed by the Orange Economic Development Corporation, with full support of the Town of Orange, to reinforce to the community how fortunate we are to live in, work in or simply to enjoy the Town of Orange and all of its many splendors. The OrangeLife Magazine has reached its sixth year and we could not have done it without the support of our community, our advertisers and our elected officials. As we move forward, we will continue to bring you stories of the people, places and activities that make the Town of Orange a vibrant community. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank both the Orange Economic Development Commission and the board of directors of the Orange Economic Development Corporation for their continued efforts in promoting the economic development interests of the Town of Orange. Once again, on behalf of the OEDC, I wish to thank: the Town of Orange for providing us the opportunity to serve the community, the Orange residents for their readership, and our advertisers for providing the financial backing which allows us to produce OrangeLife Magazine. It is my sincere hope that you have enjoyed reading the magazine, and we look forward to continuing this effort for many years to come. PAUL J. GRIMMER
Executive Director, OEDC
SUMMER 2015
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
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| THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
SUMMER 2015
Flooring with a Flare for Design
Annamarie Mastrangelo, Owner, A.A.I. Flooring Specialists.
WRITTEN BY: KAREN SINGER
Annamarie Mastrangelo delights in helping customers discover innovative flooring and interior decorating concepts matching their needs, tastes and budgets. By 2012, the store was winning “Instead of doing simple stuff, I like to do something creative,” says Mastrangelo, president and CEO of A.A.I. Flooring. Her showroom at 507 Boston Post Road is chockablock with possibilities. Displays are stacked with flooring, carpet, cabinetry and backsplash in a wide range of materials, colors and textures. Zebra rugs adorn the floor and globe-shaped light fixtures with a white floral motif hang from the ceiling.
to start a business, Amore Carpet & Floor Covering, in West Haven in 1993. In 2000, after the birth of their daughter, Carolina, Mastrangelo began working full time at the store. “I expanded the range of the business by adding my design element into the mix,” she says.
flooring industry awards for its showroom and drawing press attention for window displays and fashion shows of clothing Mastrangelo created from flooring and other non-traditional sartorial materials. Several stories and photo spreads of couture, beachwear and biker outfits, called “Anna’s Creations,” featured her daughter as a model. While Amore Carpet was thriving, however, the marriage was crumbling.
“This is not your typical showroom,” says Mastrangelo, a petite brunette with an infectious smile. “It’s a clean, crisp, design-oriented environment to look for flooring. “I’m always trying to get the newest products.”
After filing for divorce in 2012, Mastrangelo decided to go into business for herself, opening Annamarie Amore Interiors in Orange.
BORN IN THE STEEL CITY
“I literally started my business on credit cards and the support of people and vendors who believed in me and took a chance,” she says.
Mastrangelo, 48, often uses the phrase “out of the box” to describe her creative process. She grew up in Pittsburgh, where her mother, a seamstress, taught her to sew without using patterns. She first worked as a hairdresser. After moving to Connecticut in 1986 to live with her sister, Mastrangelo says she “got a great background for business” while employed at real estate, finance and sales companies. Along the way, she met and married Darrin Amore, and encouraged him SUMMER 2015
Display of Hardwood Flooring Samples.
FINALLY BEGAN THRIVING
Since then, Mastrangelo has been building her full-service business for residential and commercial customers.
Amore Carpet relocated several times, most recently in 2006 to its current location, 1165 Boston Post Road, West Haven.
“We’re big on customer service, and they truly appreciate how we take the time to research what they need and give them different concepts,” she says.
“This is really when we started to thrive in business and marketing,” Mastrangelo says.
Instead of recommending a basic tile installation for a home, for example, Mastrangelo might suggest an
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When Glazzio General Manager Ralph Sacher saw photos of the mannequin, he asked Mastrangelo for permission to post them on the company’s Instagram account. “I thought it was amazing,” Sacher says. “People have all sorts of ideas when installing our products in the house. But I never imagined someone would make a dress to put on a mannequin.” SECOND GRAND OPENING
Annamarie and Lori model a beautiful showroom.
atypical tile pattern with punctuated by “glittery little pieces,” or a decorative motif. “It doesn’t cost much more to put more detail into the design, to give it a ‘wow’ factor and create a conversation piece,” she says. “It’s not just about a sale,” Mastrangelo adds. “It’s about a representation of what I offer. I always try to do something different.” LONG LIST OF HAPPY CLIENTS
Satisfied customers include Dore Rogers, who hired A.A.I. Flooring to help her select and install tiles in her kitchen and two bathrooms. “Annamarie has got a great eye for design and color,” Rogers says. “I’m not good at these things and thought I would be overwhelmed. But she was very welcoming, and it was nice to have someone so knowledgeable guide you through the process. “I had gone to other stores,” Rogers adds, “and they weren’t interested in working personally with me. Annamarie was really concerned about what would work best for me and my family.” Mastrangelo’s hands-on management style also appeals to Dan Iead, a clinic social worker and director of residential services and facility operations for APT Foundation, a New Haven-based non-profit providing mental health and substance abuse treatment services.
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“She’s very responsive, and actually comes out to the job herself,” says Iead, who oversees several buildings for the organization. “Annamarie does all of our floors –– wood, tile and ceramic,” Iead adds. “Her work is top-notch. Her staff is awesome. And, I have used her exclusively since she started her own business.” INSPIRATION FROM A VARIETY OF SOURCES
“I love looking at luxury mansions for people who have an endless budget the average human being cannot afford,” she says. “Then I downscale it so it looks just as beautiful but is affordable.
In summer 2014, Mastrangelo changed her store name from Annamarie Amore Interiors to A.A.I. Flooring and started using her maiden name. “I did this due to the issues from my divorce and the fact that people were getting confused,” she says. Clearing up the confusion remains a priority. Mastrangelo is planning a second grand opening this summer to emphasize the name changes. “I just want to let people know I am not affiliated with my former workplace,” she says. And to assure them she still is doing what she does best – at her own store. 쮿
Mastrangelo also researches the latest window displays in New York, Paris and Milan. A mannequin in her store window wears a silver cap and a two-piece outfit she created from materials from New York-based Glazzio Tiles. Round pieces of white, gray and black glass, smoked glass, glass crystal and marble form the upper part of the outfit. A small band of square glass bits rings the top of the skirt and leggings, which are made from clear, white and gray rectangular glass, glass crystal and marble. “I had no idea what it was going to be,” she says. “I just sat with a glue gun and played – for about 12 hours.”
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| THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
SUMMER 2015
OVNA: Helping Keep Residents Healthy WRITTEN BY: DAINA LARKIN
The U.S. health care system is undergoing a dramatic change with a shift to population-based health care. The goals of this movement are: keeping patient populations healthy rather than waiting to treat illness and to provide access to health care for all citizens.This shift in direction is exciting, challenging and fits very well with the focus of Orange Visiting Nurse Association (OVNA) that has a broader mission as a municipal agency. Since its founding in 1937, OVNA has been providing public /community health, and school nursing in addition to skilled homecare to residents of Orange (including Milford, West Haven and Woodbridge) for its homecare program. CHALLENGING TIMES AHEAD
One of the biggest challenges nationally as well as locally is how to meet the needs of our elderly population, which in Orange is now 19.9% of its total population. Seniors are living longer and their family members live in other locations, many times outside of Connecticut. Seniors want to stay in their own home and “age in place.” It is a challenge for families and individuals to try and make this goal achievable. The Town of Orange supports the concept of “aging in place” through the many services at the Community Center – especially the transportation program – that takes residents to doctors’ appointments, the grocery store or to the Center. MEETING COMMUNITY NEEDS
For the past three years, OVNA has been able to designate our Community Liaison, Maria Biondi, LPN, to help the agency meet the growing community SUMMER 2015
RESPONSIVE SERVICE
Michael Saffer, Esquire and Maria Biondi, LPN exhibit OVNA Services at Spring Back to Health and Business Networking Event.
health needs of the citizens of Orange. In addition to organizing traditional activities, such as monthly blood pressure clinics at the OVNA office, annual community-wide flu clinics, TB screening, wellness and disease prevention and community education sessions, she spends time helping to connect people to medical services and community resources to meet their needs. She also goes to skilled nursing facilities to see existing or new patients who are referred to the homecare program to make sure that the transition from the facility to home is smooth and that all the needed care is in place. If appropriate, OVNA therapy staff and Maria have been able to make a visit to a future patient’s home to help make sure that the setup in the home and bathroom are safe and determine if additional supplies or equipment are needed prior to a patient’s return to their home.
Many times, residents either call or just come into the office and say “I need help.” Agency nursing staff, in addition to Maria Biondi, are there to listen, help them problem solve and look at what available services they could access. One of the most important first steps is usually suggesting an appointment with their doctor if there has been a change in health status and then helping them look at the most pressing problems, whether it is finding help with transportation, private help with care in the home or setting up lifeline. Many times it is just listening. Each request is unique and varies and may start with “can you check my blood pressure?” or might be as difficult as “how do I know when my mother needs hospice?” HOMECARE PROGRAM
In addition to the community health program, OVNA‘s primary focus is the state-licensed and nationallyaccredited homecare program for those residents who need skilled care following a hospitalization or stay at a skilled rehabilitation center. Referrals may also come directly from area doctors. The staff of registered nurses, physical, occupational and speech therapists, social workers, dietician, home health aide or homemaker work together to develop a plan of care to help each patient meet their goals and, if possible, either stay in their own home or return to work or outside activities. 쮿
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| THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
SUMMER 2015
Turkey Hill School Celebrates 50 Years WRITTEN BY: DENISE ARTERBURY, PRINCIPAL
Turkey Hill School opened the doors to its first class in 1964, welcoming 440 students on September 10, 1964! Its inaugural year hosted 17 classes with class sizes that ranged from 24-29 students. The 20 classroom elementary school was designed by Lyons and Mather of Bridgeport and built by The P. Francini and Company of Water Street with a budget of $1.12 million. Broken down, the cost of the school was $15.87 per square foot, with a $1,030 per student cost. At its opening, the school boasted sinks and water fountains in every room, a curriculum center for teachers, audio visual draperies, a 35 gallon tropical fish tank, phonographs, TV outlets, and five televisions available for school-wide use. Dorothy Berger, the school’s first principal, reminisces the most challenging part was not opening day, but was the year prior--much of 1963 was spent getting everything in order for the new school. Many decisions needed to be made regarding the layout of the school, working with the architect, hiring new teachers, and purchasing all new supplies. “Thinking back,” Mrs. Berger shared “even in 1964 education has always been in a state of change; there was always exploration as to how to improve the quality of education.” A COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIP
Throughout the years, Turkey Hill School and the Town of Orange have always been very progressive in educational programming. In the early years, enrichment classes were offered so students can learn about ceramics, photography, music, and poetry; as typing classes were offered SUMMER 2015
Turkey Hill School Classroom, circa mid 1960s’. Do you recognize anyone?
to 5th graders. In addition, the school was a Demonstration Library School for the State of Connecticut. Fast forward 50 years and Turkey Hill School and the Town of Orange have still retained this trait. Currently, the school has an Audio Visual Club, television studio, and an enrichment and intervention program for every grade. Another exciting element is a blossoming art and music program that includes band, orchestra, choir, with special art projects such as the 6th grade tile project, Drama Club, and Hulley Fund grants.
A PROUD HERITAGE
The physical appearance of Turkey Hill has remained much the same as in 1964! While an additional four classrooms were added to the upper grade wing and playgrounds were updated, the layout and structure of the school still endures. Major differences, however, lie in the curriculum, instructional methods, and technology used to teach the students! What would the students of 1964 think of the Smartboards, laptops, desktops, and document cameras in our classrooms? Could they have ever imagined announcements broadcast on TV to each class each morning? Or looking up their own reading levels on computers? Technology is in the
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forefront of today’s students’ educational experience across the nation, with Turkey Hill boasting a computer lab, two carts of iPads, four carts of laptops, and a television broadcast studio for morning announcements! Yet regardless of how many educational reforms, changes to curriculum, or updates and revisions to instructional methods take place, Turkey Hill still remains a cornerstone in the lives of the families in its district, with its students and staff on a constant quest to be their best. Mrs. Berger states, “Whether it’s 1964 or 2015, Turkey Hill School focuses on what is best for our children and our community.” BIRTHDAY PLANNING
In anticipation of the 50th Birthday Celebration of our beloved Turkey Hill School in May, the students have been learning about the history of the school, with each grade being responsible for creating a visual history on one decade. Tucked away on shelves in the library, students have discovered old yearbooks, homemade scrap books, and articles from the past five decades. And as students peel back the pages of Turkey Hill’s history, they can’t help but exclaim out loud the similarities and differences that they notice:
Turkey Hill School Principal, Denise Arterbury posing with Dorothy Berger, the First Turkey Hill School Principal.
“Look at what the students are wearing!”…“They even had field day back then – we do too!”…“The school looks the same as it did back then.” Students have been compiling photos and articles that showcase what life was like at Turkey Hill during the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and today to put on a timeline that will hang in the hallways. Throughout the rest of the year, classes will be visiting and making inferences about Turkey Hill from these primary documents. In addition, students have had the unique and amazing opportunity to interview prior staff and alumni, research historical events from these years, and much more! The 50th Birthday Celebration has brought a true spirit and excitement to the building and the kids have thoroughly enjoyed learning about their town and particularly their school on such an intimate level.
grade created), life-size family games and activities (such as a dunk tank and photo booth), raffle baskets, a scholastic book fair, silent auction, and more! That evening, each of the attendees grabbed a cupcake and joined together to sing Happy Birthday to Turkey Hill School on the field, followed by a family-friendly outdoor movie! Denise Arterbury, Principle of Turkey Hill School said, “We were so incredibly excited to celebrate all that Turkey Hill has brought to the lives of its students and the Town of Orange.” 쮿
A SPECIAL CELEBRATION
Turkey Hill School Students working on Anniversary Projects. 16
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To celebrate, the Turkey Hill School Parent Teacher Organization hosted a Turkey Hill School 50th Birthday Celebration for current students, past alumni, staff, and invited guests on May 16th. In balancing an intimate celebration with current students and their families with the excitement and wish to include all Turkey Hill School alumni and staff, the evening will include self-guided tours of the school (and the projects that each
Turkey Hill School Students working on Anniversary Projects. SUMMER 2015
At Framers Edge, the Ways to Preserve Memories are Endless WRITTEN BY: ALYSSA DAVANZO
At 663 Orange Center Road, memories are made to last a lifetime behind the doors of Framers Edge. For 25 years, the store has provided customers with one-of-a-kind pieces and there is no sign of the business stopping any time soon. I moved to a warehouse and finally to Walking through the door, I don’t know “I’ve been through three recessions but the business is still surviving and doing great,” said Jason Ornstein, founding owner of Framers Edge. “I love what I do and I have absolutely no complaints.” Developing a love for the craft while pursuing a degree in graphic design from Central Connecticut State University, Jason generated the idea of starting up his own framing business in 1990. “I began my work with framing on a little table in my parents’ foyer,” Jason said. “Then I moved to an apartment in Bridgeport and eventually to a condo in Milford. As the business grew even bigger,
a store front in Orange and I’ve been here ever since.” RAPIDLY CHANGING INDUSTRY
With the industry regularly changing with new products, trends and designs, Jason collaborates with 10 different distributors and over 30 artists in surrounding towns. Completing such a wide variety of jobs over the years, Jason says that he has learned to expect the unexpected. “It’s almost like what Forrest Gump said with the box of chocolates, ‘You never know what you’re going to get,’” Jason said. “With my business, I honestly never know what I’ll get.
what I’ll be asked to frame next.” While the services at the family owned and operated business include traditional framings of photographs, posters, children’s artwork and diplomas, Jason has gained extensive experience working with extremely unusual pieces as well. “I’ve framed some bizarre stuff,” Jason said. “I’ve done archival, historical document framing with George Washington’s signature, which was unbelievable. I’d have to say that was one of the weirdest and coolest, but the creepiest things I ever framed was a human femur.” Always willing to tackle creative projects, Jason has worked with a number of corporations in Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts. Not only does Jason frame for local businesses such as the PEZ Visitor Center on 35 Prindle Hill Road, but he also works closely with World Wrestling Entertainment in Stamford on both national and international levels.
Inside the Framer’s Edge showroom at 663 Orange Center Road. 18
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Fantasma Magic, a New York City business named the “World’s Leading Manufacturer of Magic,” is home to a museum dedicated to worldrenowned magician Harry Houdini. SUMMER 2015
“If someone comes into the store with a $5 item, then that’s great,” Jason said. “If another person comes in with a $100,000 item, that’s fine too. I don’t want anyone to ever feel like they can’t come into Framers Edge because of the size of their item. I treat everyone the same.”
Jason says that being able to frame and shadowbox the museum’s straight jackets, handcuffs and leg irons that Houdini had previously used in his acts was a project like no other. “When visitors of the museum asked me how I was able to fasten certain objects to the background of shadowboxes to make them look like they were floating, I told them like Houdini’s tricks, it’s a secret,” Jason said. “There are things in that museum that no one else has in the world, and I was framing them here in Orange, Connecticut.” Shadowboxing, a popular method of preserving memorabilia, is one of Jason’s passions. “With shadowboxing, I am forced to think outside the box and ask myself, ‘How am I going to frame this object?’ It’s such an honor when people leave their prized possessions with me to frame,” Jason said. Dabbling with antiques over the past few years, Jason has worked with
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Complimenting Orange’s strong sense of community, Jason says that while the town is growing, it still manages to have a unique small town feel.
Owner, Jason Ornstein
dishware, prints, antique boxes and collectibles. He says that he is broadening his horizons by expanding the services of Framers Edge beyond its custom gallery. Jason’s commitment to making his customers happy arises through his motto that there is no job too small or too large.
“I know a lot of people in Orange because Framers Edge has been here for such a long time,” Jason said. “When I wave, everyone waves back. Even though I don’t know every person by name, I know them by sight and that’s a very special thing.” With a loyal base of customers, Jason has watched as children grow up, leave home, and later return to Framer’s Edge to frame the new memories they’ve made. 쮿
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SUMMER 2015
An Urban Farm Right Here in Town WRITTEN BY: KAREN SINGER
At Yale’s West Campus Urban Farm, ideas germinate along with seeds. It’s a place where nursing students study herbs used in midwifery, beehives are outfitted with internal temperature and humidity sensors, and children dance while learning how plants grow. “The exploration of ideas, I think, is the role that a farm can play in a liberal arts institution,” says West Campus Urban farm manager Justin Freiberg. “We’re never going to produce enough food to make a profit, so we’re measuring yield in community collaborations or innovations.” Orange residents are helping to increase the output, including Peck Place elementary school students and adult volunteers. YALE’S SECOND FARM
An outgrowth of the Yale Sustainable Food Program, the West Campus Urban Farm is Yale’s second farm. The first, a one-acre farm for the multidisciplinary study of food and agriculture, opened on the university’s downtown New Haven campus in 2003.
Cecilia Jevitt found out about the farm two years ago, shortly after arriving at the West Campus to direct the Yale Nurse-Midwifery program.
Jevitt’s course uses plants to discuss nutrition, pregnancy, the glycemic index, herbal medicine and other topics.
“I realized I could bring students there for a nutrition course,” she says. “I started volunteering at the farm and developed a one credit plant-based health course for nursing students to study nutrition and have an idea about alternative and complementary health. About a year ago, we planted a medicinal herb garden with at least 20 plants like milk thistle, basil, horehound and stinging nettle.”
“You can read and read about vegetables,” she says, “but when you’re actually holding the vegetables, it’s an enhanced way of putting the material together.” There are added benefits. As students learn about plants, Jevitt says, “They’re getting sunshine, fresh air and a great deal of camaraderie.” Jevitt and Freiberg also are teaching nursing students the basics of community gardening.
Freiberg, A Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies graduate, designed the 30-acre West Campus Urban Farm, where plants are cultivated on a fenced-in quarter of an acre, in barrel planters and wooden rectangular boxes called raised beds. Outside the fence are beehives, asparagus and raspberry patches, a medicinal collection of plants and a mushroom cultivation area. “Then it blends into 25 acres of green space with trails,” Freiberg says. A view of the Yale Urban Farm’s Greenhouse. SUMMER 2015
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“Repetition for young kids is really important,” Peterson says. “Another reference point is that we can take our visits back to the classroom and connect them to the text.” Around 60 Peck Place students are scheduled to return to the farm this year, in late May and early June. Mainar would like to expand the “Food Adventurers” program. “So far we’ve only been able to do one or two lessons per semester,” she says. “We’re also hoping to bring in different classes and perhaps other schools in the district.”
The volunteers added their trays of seed-filled soil cubes to the dozens of others containing herbs and vegetables in various stages of growth. In a few weeks the cubes would be transplanted to the garden. But on this cool April day, many of the 72 raised beds were shrouded with plastic and opaque white fabric covering hoops to protect Asian greens and other plants during the winter. Some greenery was visible through the condensation inside the plastic wrapping.
Sunflowers growing in the garden.
ROBUST VOLUNTEER POOL EDUCATING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
Another educational initiative, developed by Freiberg, is a program to introduce elementary school students to the growing cycles of crops on the farm. “We have hands-on lessons so they can understand farm basics, plant basics and healthy nutrition, and understand where food comes from,” says Melanie Mainar, a second year nursing student who is the West Campus Farm’s Educational Programs Coordinator. Peck Place School students piloted the “Food Adventurers” program in 2014, after the school relocated to Yale’s West Campus while flood damage was repaired. Special education teacher Adriana Miller’s students visited the farm last spring and fall. “They had a great time,” Miller says. “These kids need real life experiences. They got to taste different things, like thyme, radishes, cherry tomatoes, strawberries and a type of kale. They planted carrot seeds. And there was a dance about sprouting plants, where they got on the ground and grew while Justin was singing.” Peck Place students from Karen Peterson’s first grade class also participated in the program, which amplified the school curriculum about the life cycle of plants. 22
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Because Yale students are gone for a large part of the growing season, the West Campus Urban Farm relies on volunteer sessions to get the work done. “This is such a good investment of my time,” says Orange resident Joanne Rudof, an archivist at Sterling Memorial Library and an avid gardener who has been a farm volunteer since 2013. “Justin is so knowledgeable and he grows amazing crops, with a variety of things I would never grow, like ginger, okra and 10 to 20 different kinds of peppers.” Other volunteers include nursing students and West Campus chef Christopher Jamilkowski, who uses farm produce and herbs in his recipes. On April 1, 2015, several volunteers were in the West Campus greenhouse, planting seeds in small and large seed-starting cubes they made with hand-held devices called soil blocks, which produce cubes with dimples. “I like the tools they have,” said John Crowley, a bespectacled man in white T-shirt and jeans planting Brussel sprouts and other seeds on his first day as a volunteer. “I live in a condo, so I don’t have an opportunity to have a garden,” said Irina Tikhonova, lab manager at the Yale Center for Genome Analysis. She has been a farm volunteer since 2013. So has Lisa Braun, a Navy commander who recently completed a PhD at the Yale School of Nursing.
Justin Freiberg, makes Maple Cotton Candy at Maplefest 2015.
Down a nearby trail, a 12-foot wooden structure with a slanted roof and no doors glistened in the late afternoon sun. Last year, Peter Hirsch, a Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies student exploring alternative construction methods in developing countries, built this “WikiHouse” with a design from an open source building system that was printed on plywood and cut into prefabricated modular pieces. The simplicity of the structure evoked a stillness that seemed suitable for meditation and yoga classes. KEEPING BEES
The farm’s beehives are a partnership with Yale Bee Space, an undergraduate organization with students from Yale College, the School of SUMMER 2015
Forestry and Environmental Studies and the School of Nursing. “Our main goal is education, teaching Yale students about beekeeping and trying to figure out how to use technology in hives,” says Bee Space co-president Benjamin Healy. Group members also are striving to update an innovation by Lorenzo Langstroth, a Yale graduate who developed a beehive with removable frames in the mid-1800s. His Langstroth hive remains the most popular type in use today. “The hive basically hasn’t changed since then,” Healy says. “We’re hoping we can figure out a way to make a better hive.” NOT JUST FARMING
New to the farm this year is a maple sugaring operation run by Yale senior Onagh MacKenzie, who proposed the idea to Freiberg last fall as an independent study. Students and volunteers collected sap in late winter and early spring, produced syrup and, on April 10, 2015, celebrated with demonstrations and tastings at the farm’s first MapleFest. “I think the best part is everybody involved is equally excited to be trying this out, to see what can happen,” says MacKenzie. “I’m sure that in years to come it will become more of an educational event.” Other farm projects include an experimental irrigation system and a tie-in with one of the campus labs to extract medicine from plants. “It’s amazing to know that this farm, though still in its infancy, has already produced so many collaborations,” Mainar says. “Justin is really trying to grow it. Says Freiberg, “We have the space to make the farm as useful as possible to as many people as possible.” For more information about Yale’s West Campus Farm, visit this website: http://westcampus.yale.edu/yale-west-campusurban-farm 쮿
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Connecticut Natural Science Illustrations WRITTEN BY: KAREN SINGER
If you visit Yale’s West Campus Urban Farm this summer, you may notice people with sketchpads and folding stools in the garden or on the trails. system that has a really amazing Petrochko and Prentice also were They are not picnicking. They’re taking art courses from the Connecticut Natural Science Illustrators’ (CTNSI) program at the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History’s West Campus Community Education Center. Classes are held year-round, at all skill levels. “We always offer fundamentals of drawing, botanical watercolors, drawing and painting birds and one-day workshops,” says CTNSI president Dorie Petrochko, who formed the organization in 2009 with fellow professional artists Cindy Gilbane, Susannah Graedel and Jan Prentice. Three of the founders were students at the New York Botanical Garden, where they earned a certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration.
longtime Peabody volunteers, which led to CTNSI’s collaboration with the museum. “We teach a fair amount of our classes at the Peabody, using specimens from their dioramas, gem and mineral collections and bird models,” Petrochko says. OUTDOOR LOCATIONS ARE CLASSROOMS FOR SOME INSTRUCTORS
Linda Miller takes her students on field trips to the seashore, to draw and paint sea urchins, starfish and sand dollars, and to the West Campus Urban Farm for field sketching, drawing, painting and nature journaling. “I started out with field sketching and realized there was a whole trail
landscape, with the Oyster River and wild acres filled with birds and critters,” Miller says. She added cultivated plants to the curriculum after becoming a farm volunteer. CTNSI STUDENTS RUN THE GAMUT FROM YOUNG PEOPLE TO RETIREES
“There are a lot of women,” Petrochko says. “We’d like to have more men and more professional people. “We have been building up a base of returning students, and we keep getting some amazingly talented students.” The Rev. Suzanne E. Wagner, Senior Minister of the Orange Congregational Church has taken CTNSI courses since 2011. Wagner earned an undergraduate degree in art at Williams Woods College in Fulton, Missouri, where she focused on watercolors and pottery, painted barns and developed an interest in natural science illustration. Over the years other priorities intervened until the CTNSI program rekindled her passion for painting the natural world. “What I like about it is its very controlled and tight,” Wagner says. “You use very fine brushes and look at things closely, like birds, all sorts of beetles and bugs and rocks and shells. You just look at the colors and textures and try to recreate them.” Wagner takes one class per session to keep her “pleasantly busy and engaged in painting.
Student working on painting feathers in watercolor. 24
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One of Wagner’s recent colored pencil paintings depicts a reddish orange poison dart frog with blue legs poised to leap out of a small bowl.
Student working with watercolors.
“They have small classes, which is good because you get a lot of individualized attention in the areas you need,” she says. “There are some students that have had experience and some that are just brand new and this is something they want to pursue in their lifetime.”
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Wagner has studied with four of the five CTNSI instructors. “They have different way of teaching but all of them work with the student right where they are, at their skill level,” Wagner says. “And they really care about what you’re doing.” LESSON LEARNED
The biggest lesson Wagner has learned from her instructors is patience. “To paint something well takes a lot of thinking through things and working out problems in your head ahead of time,” she says. “I
would like to sit down with a blank page and turn out a perfect picture. But what they’ve taught me is work it out on other paper first, and to do a lot of preliminary sketching before you do the real painting.” CTNSI’s summer 2015 classes include a one-day workshop in Painting Feathers, Drawing Flowers for Beginning and Continuing Students, Flowers through a Microscope, Botanical Watercolor Zoom-Ins, Field Sketching and Painting at the West Campus Urban Farm and Field Sketching and Nature Journaling. For more information, visit the Connecticut Natural Science Illustrators website: http://www.ctnsi.com/ and the CTNSI Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Con necticut-Natural-ScienceIllustrators/195257080488315 쮿
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The RED Car Show at the Orange Strawberry Festival WRITTEN BY: GEORGE CATALANO
Some people think of a RED car show and say “Why?” But the folks at OCC dreamed of a RED car show and said “Why Not?” It all started when the Orange Congregational Church had to move their annual Strawberry Festival from the Orange Green in front of the Church to the Orange Fairgrounds down the street. The Festival, now in its 7th year, had simply outgrown the space. Now they faced an interesting dilemma: they had such a big space they did not know how to make use of it all!
Of course, there is a whole lot more going on than the RED Car show. The Orange Strawberry Festival offers a wonderful array of foods starting with breakfast, topped with strawberries of course, lunches including hot sandwiches right off the grill, and more strawberries in every kind of presentation from shortcake to pies, to jams, to ice cream sundaes, and chocolate dipped strawberries as well.
The RED Car Show was conceived as a way to fill the huge space with an event that recognized the Red Strawberry celebration of the Festival while attracting the demographic of car collectors as part of the attendees.
There will be craft vendors dotting the field with their tents, live bands to keep toes-a-tappin’ and children’s rides, games and activities. So you see it’s a real family affair with all proceeds going to support the good works of the Orange Congregational Church.
What is it about red cars that make them among the most popular color represented at car shows? Think of some of the passionate titles of red car colors including “Torch Red”, “Matador Red”, “Bolero Red” or “Flame Red”. Many folks who sell cars use the term “resale red” to point out that a flaming red car sells faster than other colors! The supercars from Ferrari are almost all painted in “Rosso Corsa” which translates to Racing Red and is the national color for Italian Race cars. Last year the first RED Car Show attracted almost 70 beautiful, gleaming, and perfectly detailed red cars and trucks of every era and genre. There were classics, muscle SUMMER 2015
The TBird wins a Trophy.
cars, sports cars, custom cars, hot rods, modern era cars, and even two vintage fire trucks from the thirties! All combined to present a collective view that is hard to beat in the world of car enthusiasts (and camera buffs as well)! All of the cars are arrayed on the grand lawn at the Orange Fairgrounds at High Plains Community Center, bordered by many shade trees where entrants can seek a cool spot to sit while enjoying the festivities. Sometime between 2:30-3:00 pm there is a concours inspired procession to the gazebo to receive public accolade and a trophy for the cars that receive the most votes from their peers.
This year’s Strawberry Festival will take place on Saturday, June 13, 2015 (always the 2nd Saturday of June) from 9am to 5pm at the Orange Fairgrounds on Orange Center Road. The rain date is Sunday, June 14. As last year, the RED Car show will be running from 10am to 3pm. If you have questions about the Festival, call the Orange Congregational Church at 203 795-9749 or visit their website at www.orangecongregationalchurch.org If you have a specific question about the RED Car show, call George Catalano at 203 799-6748. 쮿
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A Physical Therapy for Life Initiative WRITTEN BY: ANTHONY CIABURRI, PT, DPT, ATC/L
Anthony Ciaburri, PT, DPT, ATC/L
The emergence of spring and summer often invoke feelings of vigor, “I’m going to start jogging”, or “I’m going to start exercising everyday”. These mantras are stated and heard all too often. The goal in mind is usually to improve strength and mobility, increase endurance, and get “healthy”. These are all wonderful goals to have, however the problem most people have with goal setting is not being able to plot a proper path from idea to goal attainment. Ahh those objectives, every good goal needs equally good objectives. “How” are you going to get there, “what” are you going to do to ensure that you are successful at achieving these goals? Unfortunately, this is the area where most people struggle. Their goals remain unattained, not for a lack of effort, but for lack of proper planning. There are countless obstructions lurking to keep you from achieving certain health and fitness related goals: proper frequency, proper intensity, proper duration, injury, etc.
As the seasons change and we begin to spend more time outdoors, we often see this as a time to begin new exercise routines or take up new hobbies. routines, but in life. Such as, assessing early treatment after injury for another time. From a community standpoint, often times, physical therapists are overlooked as a resource for injury prevention. We are specialists in the evaluation and identification of movement impairments. This is something that people of all ages can benefit from, and not just for the purposes of beginning new activities or exercise
the risk for falls in the elderly and implementing corrective strategies with the efforts of stopping a potentially life changing fall, or identifying deficient movement patterns in youth / adolescent athletes in order to decrease their risk of shoulder, elbow, or knee injury in the future. And of course, much time is spent assessing the core weaknesses, postural deficiencies, and body mechanics contributing to the
SEEKING TREATMENT EARLY
As a physical therapist, we often see a person after injury has derailed them from achieving a certain goal. Sometimes shortly after injury, while they are in the acute phase. Sometimes long after injury has occurred and they are in a more chronic phase. And, for the purposes of this article, we will table the discussion on the benefits of seeking SUMMER 2015
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leg extension exercise, a person would start in a seated position (knees bent to 90 degrees), maintaining an upright posture. Next, they would move their knees from 90 degrees of flexion in a straightening motion to 0 degrees of extension. Lastly, they would return to the start position in a controlled manner. A safe adjustment for this exercise would be to decrease the arc of motion from 90–0 degrees to 90–45 degrees. Decreasing the arc by half will decrease pain inducing stress to the underside of the kneecap. A recommended starting point would be to begin with 2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions per set, daily. Adjustments are encouraged based on tolerance, use pain as your guideline.
staggering number of reported cases of low back pain each year. I thought I would spend a little time discussing some of the more common injuries that occur with activity and give a few pointers as to how you may defend yourself against injury or further injury. LEG INJURIES
Whether you are a novice or experienced runner, training errors are one of the leading causes of preventable injury. Once we have found that comfortable starting point, the question we most often struggle with is “how do I progress safely?” Not knowing what an appropriate method for progression is can lead to a couple of problems: 1) too little progress, no change in overall fitness level, and possible boredom with your activity, or 2) increasing the duration and intensity too quickly which may lead to injury. Research shows that increases in running distance or speed by 30% or greater within a 2 week period may increase your risk of developing patellofemoral pain, patellar tendinopathy, iliotibial band syndrome, shin splints, and various other overuse type injuries of hips, knees, and lower leg. A good method to guide your running progression is the 10% rule. The 10% rule states that you should not increase your mileage or speed by greater than 10% per
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week. Furthermore, the more conservative you are with your progression the more likely you are to prevent injury. KNEE INJURIES
Knee pain, most notably patellofemoral pain, “under the kneecap” or “in the front of the knee” can sometimes be a product of weak quadriceps muscles (the muscles along the front of the thigh). Strengthening these muscles with weight bearing (WB) and non-weight bearing (NWB) exercises like squats (WB) and knee extensions (NWB), are some of the ways we help to alleviate the pain. However, without proper understanding of load and stress under the kneecap, performing these exercises with improper form and technique may lead to poor pain alleviation or further pain. With the traditional squat exercise a person would begin by standing with their feet about shoulders width apart and feet straight. Next, they would squat to 90 degrees of knee flexion (bending), while keeping their weight centered and back straight. Finally, stand back up. However, squatting to 90 degrees increases the stress to the underside of kneecap significantly. Our recommendation would be to begin with a half squat (bending the knee to only 45 degrees) prior to standing back up. With the traditional
As you strengthen the quadriceps muscle, your knee will become less painful and you should be able to squat safely for 0-90 degrees and extend your leg from 90-0 degrees if that was something you were able to do prior to injury. The information and recommendations contained here are brief summaries of current research and literature. This article is not intended to be a substitute for seeking proper health care to diagnose and treat this condition. For more information on the evaluation, management, and treatment of this or other musculoskeletal injuries, contact Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Centers of Orange or your health care provider. 쮿
About Anthony Ciaburri: Anthony graduated from Southern Connecticut State University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Sciences and a specialty in Athletic Training. For years, Anthony worked in the clinical and school settings with athletes of all levels ranging from recreational to professional. In 2007, Anthony completed his Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University. He joined PTSMC of Westbrook in June 2007, where he continued to further his interests in the assessment and management of musculoskeletal disorders. In January of 2012, Anthony became the Partner and Director of PTSMC of Orange. SUMMER 2015
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Dinner and a Show All in One WRITTEN BY: PHILIP INNES
While there has been a great deal of change along the Boston Post Road in Orange of late, certain stalwarts, like Hayama Sushi & Hibachi, remain. That doesn’t mean, however, that nothing at Hayama has changed. Yan Pan, who previously owned a restaurant in New Jersey, is the friendly new face at Hayama’s helm, having purchased the restaurant in October 2014. Although warmhearted Pan has mainly stuck to previous management’s blueprint, she’s gradually putting her own stamp on the place. While English is clearly no one’s first language, the staff is friendly, attentive and eager to please.
Normally cold sake lovers, the frigid weather has changed our preferences. My hands encircle our ceramic tokkuri for the comforting warmth. From it, we pour hot sake ($8) into each other’s o-choko cups, because in Japan “friends don’t let friends pour their own sake.” We’ve opted for the razzle-dazzle of the hibachi experience. But before we partake of the hibachi offerings,
Yan Pan, Owner.
we explore other items from the menu. Boiled and salted edamame beans in their pods ($4.50) are as healthy as they are delicious (and as addictive as popcorn). Our strictly vegetarian daughter, bless her, is in heaven over a big platter with a trio of inside-out maki rolls, one avocado ($3.95), one sweet potato tempura ($4.50) and one lettuce, cucumber and avocado ($3.95). We try our daughter’s sweet potato tempura roll—and for a moment we could almost imagine being vegetarians. But like most people, my wife and I are hardcore carnivores—and proud of it.
There’s a parking lot behind the restaurant. The interior is attractive, with oriental prints, hanging lanterns, colorful vases and other knickknacks. The front of the restaurant includes tables and booths, a small sushi bar and a small bar. The spacious rear room contains the hibachi area, with widely spaced teppanyaki tables around which chairs have been strategically placed for easy viewing. DINNER AND DRINKS
The drinks menu is extensive and exotic, including bottled and canned beers ($3.50-$7), wines by both bottle ($24.95) and glass ($6), plum wine ($5.50 per glass), hot ($4.50/$8) and cold sakes ($10-$15), Polynesian drinks ($8), frozen drinks ($8) and three pages of martinis ($8-10). 32
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We enjoy baked mussels ($6.95) with spicy mayonnaise and tobiko, but our main focus is on the sushi. Hayama’s sushi chefs know their way around sushi the way Yo-Yo Ma knows his way around a cello. A Hayama roll ($12.95) features salmon, tuna, spicy lobster, avocado and tempura crumbs in a pretty pink soybean wrapper drizzled with spicy mayonnaise and sprinkled with red tobiko. The Manhattan sashimi ($10.95) features gorgeous slender slices of salmon in a citrusy yuzu sauce. And the pleasure island ($9.95) features a nest of grated daikon sheltering tender cubes of fresh tuna and salmon, avocado, a touch of seaweed salad and red tobiko in the chef’s vinegar sauce. While the gas-heated hot plate integrated into our table is heating up, we’re served bowls of clear soup with bits of onion and mushroom as well as simple salads with a gingery, bright orange dressing. Soon our hibachi chef is performing before us, his glinting hibachi spatula flying around so fast it’s hard for the eye to keep up. An egg is tossed and caught on the hard flat implement so many times it’s obvious it has become second nature for him. He’s one with his spatula.
Hayama Sushi & Hibachi located at 199 Boston Post Road.
ROOM FOR DESSERT
The quantities are more than generous. We don’t really have room for dessert, but it’s nice to put an exclamation point on our dining experience. Although there’s also chocolate cake and fried cheesecake, my wife and daughter opt for fried ice cream ($4.50) and I for fried banana ($3.50).
VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY
Because there’s a vegetarian in our midst, we pass on the shrimp appetizer that normally comes with our Hayama hibachi special for two ($70). We’re getting shrimp anyway. With flash and flair and flame and even a volcano, fried rice, noodles and vegetables ($12.95) are all cooked before any proteins are introduced, eliciting a smile from our little animal lover. So beautifully prepared we almost forget our ginger and mustard dipping sauces, snappy shrimp, tender filet mignon and fresh lobster are then prepared before our eager eyes, the lobster removed, cooked, seasoned and then attractively replaced into the twin lobster tails from which it was extracted. It’s a dinner and a show all in one!
Although we’ve tried numerous items, the menu is extensive, with sushi, kitchen and hibachi items crying out to be explored. From the sushi menus, there are 27 hand rolls ($3.95-$5.95), 23 special rolls ($7.95$14.95), five soups ($2.50-$6), eight salads ($2.95-$10.95), 18 kitchen appetizers ($3.95-$10.95), 10 sushi and omakase appetizers ($7.95$10.95), innumerable à la carte sushi and sashimi items ($3.50-MP), seven bento box dinner combinations ($18.95), 14 sushi and sashimi entrées ($12.95-$49.95), 25 kitchen entrées (teriyaki, tempura, noodles, fried rice, $12.95-$26.95), 27 different hibachi entrée combinations ($12.95-$70) and six kids’ menu hibachi meals ($10.95-$13.95). There are also specials that bear watching. Taking advantage of one, I return another night with a friend and hit the maki roll and nigiri sushi selections hard, finding them of superb quality. Even a simple salmon skin salad ($4.95) is so good I order it twice. SIMPLY WONDERFUL
The possibilities are pretty much endless. And isn’t that why one visits an exotic restaurant—to explore a world of possibilities beyond one’s own relatively sheltered existence? Hayama in Orange is a wonderful place for such culinary adventuring. 쮿 Chef prepares Onion Volcano.
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The Paugusset Club is a Hometown Paradise WRITTEN BY: ALYSSA DAVANZO
Tucked away in the woods of Club Road in Orange is the Paugusset Club, a place where members of all ages can be found enjoying every aspect of the summer months, from roasting marshmallows to celebrating Christmas in July. Paugusset through my children’s friends who were already members, we were eager to join. From our house, we can get there in seven minutes.” PASSIONATE VOLUNTEERS
The club is managed by dedicated members who volunteer their time on the club’s Executive Board. The devoted members of Paugusett Club are the backbone of the club’s success. “The club couldn’t function without the members who step up and play a part on the executive board,” said Mary Shaw, Membership Chair of the Paugusset Club. “We have very strong member involvement.” Busy Summer Day with many members enjoying the pool.
OVER A HALF CENTURY OLD
Created in 1951 by local families, the Paugusset Club has welcomed friends, both new and old, with open arms. “In 1951, there was no clubhouse,” said Pat Ziman, a member of the club for over 20 years. “It started purely as a social organization and members had different affairs at each other’s houses like card games and parties.” The club’s extensive growth over the years led members to raise enough money to build the 10.5-acre facility that stands today, located only seconds from Route 34. Opening SUMMER 2015
annually on Memorial Day weekend and closing on Labor Day weekend, the club’s many amenities include a massive swimming pool, nine tennis courts with newly installed lights for night play and a beautiful clubhouse with a full service snack bar. After moving to Orange in 1980, Pat says that her family joined the Paugusset Club right away because of its convenient location and welcoming environment. “We’re definitely pool people,” Pat said. “My husband and I were both teachers and we had our summers off, so when we heard about
The Paugusset Social Committee transforms the members’ ideas for social events into realities. Past events have included pizza trucks, Paugusset camp outs, adult Bunco and poker nights and children’s talent shows. “If someone has a good idea, we run with it,” said Milford resident Amy Buggé, who is a chair of the Social Committee. “We have events for members of all ages.” Visiting the club for the first time as a guest before becoming a member, Amy now refers to Paugusset as her summer home and looks forward to every year when the club opens again.
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SUMMER HOME
Through her family’s involvement in the club over the past four summers, Mary says that her two children feel 100% at home at Paugusset because they have formed a great group of friends their own age in a safe, happy environment.
Come Enjoy the Open Houses every Saturday In June. Full Service Snack Bar Open Daily for Members and Guests.
“It’s seriously a home away from home for me,” Amy said. “For the kids, it’s like being at camp, but their parents are there. My family gets there at 9 am and sometimes we don’t get back home until 7 or 8 pm!” Passionate about diving and coaching since competing on the 1989 State Open Championship Team at Lauralton Hall in Milford, Amy also serves as the club’s diving instructor and has watched the Paugusset team win championships the past two years. “This position was a great opportunity for me because I knew a lot of the kids already,” Amy said. “When I started there were 15 people on the team and then last year there were 30. Since diving is not a sport kids can do all the time, a lot of them just try it and end up liking it. It attracts a lot of people over to the pool.”
“The Paugusset Club welcomes everyone, from families with children, to couples, to singles. It’s really what you want to get out of the place,” Amy said. “It’s a great social club not only for the kids, but also for adults. I’ve met so many great people who have turned into some of my closest friends.”
“The kids get the chance to do their own thing. They hop from the pool to the playground to the tennis courts and, while they can check in with us, they have that freedom of being able to do what they want as well,” Mary said. “We all love it. It fits our family lifestyle right now.”
Those who are interested in joining the club can visit Paugusset on any Saturday in June free of charge.
Anticipating the upcoming season’s grand opening, Amy says that her family will be counting down the days until they can start spending the summer relishing in Paugusset’s oldfashioned fun.
“We want people to see what we’re all about,” Mary said. “They can come to the club for the day, stay at no cost and check out the facility.”
“Instead of counting the days down to summer, we say that we’re counting the days down to Paugy,” Amy said. 쮿
ACCESS TO CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
For an additional fee, members can access the championship golf course at Race Brook Country Club in Orange. “For those who love to golf, it’s a winwin and people do take advantage of it,” Mary said. “Race Brook Country Club is also across Route 34, so it’s very close in proximity.” Calling the club the town’s ‘hidden secret’, Amy says that there are still some Orange and Milford residents who don’t know about Paugusset yet. Active Tennis Program enjoyed on the 9 courts at the Paugusset Club. 36
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“The Orange Chamber “of Commerce, “Serving Businesses “for 35 Years” WRITTEN BY: GINA DURSO
When it comes to owning a local business, there are many ways to market products or services to customers in order to grow; from radio, newspaper, TV, and social media, the list is endless. But one of the best ways to get to know the local business climate as well as the community, all while sustaining and growing your business, is to join the Orange Chamber of Commerce.
our members and businesses more involved, for them to see the benefits of joining the chamber,” said Miller. “Through collaboration with our members, we would like to provide more and more exposure to help them grow.”
LONG HISTORY OF SUCCESS
The Orange Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1962, is a membershipbased organization that unites businesses in an effort to promote economic prosperity, while also providing businesses with tools to grow. Ninety percent of its members are small businesses and the Chamber works to support its members by providing skill development, networking, marketing opportunities and resources that address all areas in the business lifecycle. Katerina Miller has been President of the Orange Chamber since September 2014 and has served on the Board of Directors since 2010. Miller, along with the Board of Directors, is eager to help grow the Chamber from its current 197 membership base and to also attain more member involvement at Chamber events. “The plan is to get SUMMER 2015
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP
Some of the benefits of joining the
Chamber include a ribbon cutting at the member’s business, a listing in the membership directory, an e-blast to promote anything the business may be offering (event, sale, etc.), social media postings and the opportunity to attend networking groups and member-only events. It takes more than just signing up and saying you’re a member to reap the
Aleez Salon & Spa co-owners; Chris Menesiotis and Lee Garvey with Bernadette Romano and Ledy Medero.
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benefits of what the Chamber really has to offer. Businesses that put in the effort when joining the Orange Chamber have the opportunity to meet new people and, most importantly, see an increase in their business. Lee Garvey, owner of Aleez Salon and Spa, has been a Chamber member for three years. She feels there are many tangible benefits to being a member, especially if you take advantage of what is being offered. “Being a member of the Chamber has brought a tremendous amount of exposure to our business. People in town now know who we are and what we have to offer,” said Garvey. “We have established relationships with other business owners and we work together to help each other succeed. It's through these relationships that we gained loyal clients.” Garvey feels that joining your local Chamber should be part of any business plan. “There is such a variety of events that there truly is something for everyone. As with anything in life, what you put into it is what you get out of it.” Dr. David Durso has been a Chamber member since opening his doors at Advanced Spine and Sport three years ago. By attending the various networking events and workshops the Chamber offers, Dr. Durso has built relationships with other local businesses that he feels has helped
his business become known. "In any business and even in life, it’s all about lasting and fulfilling relationships that you build and keep,” said Dr. Durso. “We all share a same common purpose--build and sustain business in Orange and allow our town to thrive." Miller, couldn’t agree more with these members who are actively involved in Chamber networking events and seminars. “If a business owner gains one customer from each monthly Business After Hours (BAH), the business will gain 12 new customers for the year. Not only will a business gain new customers by attending events, but it’s also an opportunity for businesses to collaborate with other businesses.” Lou DeSimone, owner of Cellini Design Jewelers and a member for almost two years, has done just that. “We have done some cross promotions with Aleez Salon and Spa that have been very beneficial. I most definitely would recommend joining the Chamber to other local businesses. It has helped our business become known in the community.” NETWORKING EVENTS
Attending networking events such as the Women’s Leadership Network or the monthly Business After Hours allows you to showcase your business. It’s even more beneficial
Dr. David Durso with Gina Durso at Orange Chamber of Commerce’s Spring Back to Health & Business Networking Event at ASD Fitness Center.
to host a BAH. DeSimone says “The Chamber has helped our business by allowing us to host a BAH. It has given us the opportunity to showcase our business to people who may have never visited. Many people who attended the event have become clients.” “As a business owner, it’s good to know who your neighboring businesses are in town. From attending networking events over the years and getting to know my fellow business owners, I feel very confident when I refer my patients to businesses in the Chamber because I know the quality of services they provide” Durso says. “I’ve also gotten many patients referred from other businesses.” Anyone is always invited to attend a Chamber event at a non-member rate, you don’t have to be an Orange resident to join the Chamber or attend an event. The more diverse businesses that join the Chamber, the more opportunities there are to network with other businesses.
From left to right: Bobby Bengivengo, Jr. with Co-owners of Cellini Design Jewelers Bob Bengivengo, Sr., Jean DeSimone-Bengivengo and Louis DeSimone, Jr. 40
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the Chamber can help. “I want the members to feel they can come to us at any time if they have a concern or an idea. It is important for them to know their concerns and suggestions will be heard.” FORWARD THINKING
As for the future, the goal is to provide more educational seminars and networking events that will benefit not only the members but the community as well. Miller states, “We are trying to have more involvement with the legislators. They are looking for feedback from our business community so they can propose new laws and regulations. We are also planning on having our Board Members more involved with the businesses and create more one-onone type of communication.” A community forum has already been held with Senator Gayle Slossberg, and State Representatives Charles Ferraro, Themis Klarides and Pam Staneski. The most recent, held back in January at High Plains Community
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Center, was successful with local business owners voicing their concerns. And the Chamber plans to hold two more forums like these before year’s end at various local business locations for Orange business owners and the community to attend. SO MUCH TO OFFER
From speaking with three very different businesses in the Orange Chamber of Commerce and really understanding the events that the Chamber has to offer, I must say, there is really something for everyone. You just have to rise to the occasion to network, meet people, showcase your business, and you too can benefit from being a Chamber member to help your business grow and succeed. For more information, to become a member or for a list of upcoming events, please visit the Orange Chamber of Commerce website at www.orangectchamber.com or call the office at 203-795-3328. 쮿
Left to Right; Silveras Sboui, People’s United Bank; Richard Zorena, Zorena Wealth Management, and Anna Accetta, Director of Orange Chamber of Commerce at a Business After Hours this past winter.
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K-9 Officer Trent Follows his Nose
dog, Officer Bernegger says she is glad to travel with Trent to support other agencies.
WRITTEN BY: ALYSSA DAVANZO
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
The Orange Police Department has added a furry, four-legged officer to its team.
While Trent spends the majority of the day working, he also makes room for community outreach, where he has the pleasure of meeting and mingling with Orange residents of all ages.
K-9 officer Trent, a purebred Labrador, works alongside his handler, Orange Police Officer Mary Bernegger. Trained to detect a number of illegal drugs such as marijuana, heroin, ecstasy and opiates, Trent helps the force get narcotics off the streets. “This is the first time we’ve had a drug dog, and we have found that Trent is a very valuable tool to help us do our jobs better,” said Orange Police Chief Robert Gagne. “He was trained well and he’s very good at what he does.” While Chief Gagne says that Orange does not have a drug problem, there are a lot of vehicles that pass through major roadways in town on a daily basis.
investigations, Trent is the Orange Police Department’s first dog, specializing in narcotics. “There have been several self-initiated motor vehicle stops where Officer Bernegger has seized differing quantities of marijuana, and even a few situations where she didn’t have to use Trent,” Chief Gagne said. “She just pulled the individuals aside and told them ‘I have this dog and he’s trained to sniff narcotics.’ The person eventually admitted to having possession of drugs, knowing Trent was right there.” When other towns call the Orange Police Department for a narcotics
“Suspicious packages were found when Officer Bernegger was working in conjunction with the statewide narcotics task force,” Chief Gagne said. “Significant amounts of marijuana – I’m talking pounds of it – were recovered from those packages after Trent sniffed out and assisted with the recovery.”
“We like to make an appearance at any kind of public relations event,” Officer Bernegger said. “We’re always open to demonstrations. This is my first and only time working with a dog, and it’s been fun going to events with Trent that are hosted in the public arena.” Visiting the Orange Congregational Church in the beginning of the year, Officer Bernegger and Trent took part in the youth group’s annual fundraising event “Freeze Out,” which supports Habitat for Humanity. As one of the event’s key speakers, Officer Bernegger answered questions for the kids and showed
GOOD FIT FOR THE DEPARTMENT
“It is a concern of ours that we have some delivery hubs in the town and that we have a lot of traffic moving in and out of Orange,” said Chief Gagne. “Geographically we are in between New Haven and Bridgeport and between New Haven and the Valley. Even though we haven’t had a high level of activity at this point, we feel there are drugs being transported and thought Trent would be a good fit for our department.” Purchased through Guiding Eyes in New York and funded through asset forfeiture finances the Department received through past drug SUMMER 2015
Orange Police Officer Mary Bernegger with K9 Officer Trent.
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them the strength of Trent’s nose by hiding small amounts of drugs for him to discover within minutes. “The night ended up being a huge learning experience for the kids,” Chief Gagne said. “We want our community to know what we’re doing, how we’re doing it and why we’re doing it.” AMBASSADORS OF GOODWILL
Since graduating from the State Police K-9 Academy last June, Trent has paid a visit to the Orange Country Fair as well as the Orange Citizens Police Academy, offered every spring through Amity Adult Education. “Through the Orange Citizens Police Academy program, the public gets to come in and see the equipment we have, how we function as a department and what services we provide to the community,” Chief Gagne said. “A group of about 20 participants who are 18 and older get to meet the canines firsthand and watch how they work.”
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During the eight-session course, which is offered on a first-come firstserved basis, participants are given the rare opportunity to learn about the administration of the police department. Chief Gagne says that those involved, graduate from the program as ambassadors of goodwill with a better understanding of accident investigations, firearms and even the special response team. “There’s an evening where participants work with our detectives on a mock crime scene where they get to dust for fingerprints,” Chief Gagne said. “We also have a judicial night where we bring in State Attorney Kevin Lawlor and Orange resident Judge Richard Arnold. Participants learn about the court system and what happens after we make an arrest and evidence is presented before a judge. ”
“He comes home with me, so when we’re not on patrol he’s my family pet,” Officer Bernegger said. “He’s a great dog with a great nose. Being with him is extremely rewarding.” 쮿
Looking for an Orange Business? Search using the OrangeEDC.com website.
When Trent is not busy getting acquainted with Orange residents, he keeps Officer Bernegger and her family company at her home.
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THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
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Bringing Children & Parents to the Open Spaces of Orange WRITTEN BY: DAINA LARKIN
Connecticut residents are blessed with the most aesthetic gifts of nature. Diverse tree life decorates our skyline; our hills and mountains ward off monotony. Stark seasonal changes enchant locals and travelers alike. ALL SEASON BEAUTY the children of Mary L. Tracy School, The Orange Conservation Commission (OCC) preserves and presents slices of the area’s natural beauty for all to enjoy. In addition to maintaining and preserving the land’s natural resources, the commission has a specific goal and passion: to bring children and their families closer to nature. EDUCATIONAL EMPHASIS
Sharon Ewen, Chairman of the OCC, helps arrange and conduct some educational programs designed to alight in children an interest in the outdoors. These programs introduce children to the parks and open spaces around the town as well as some of the native wildlife. Last year, the OCC held its first annual “Owl Prowl,” in which an Audubon member lead the 38-person group on a guided, starlit walk on Ewen’s own property, the Ewen Farm Preserve. “You can never be sure with these things that nature is going to comply,” Ewen commented before breaking into a smile. “But the owls actually hooted back to us!” The Owl Prowl was such a success that a second outing is currently in the works. Another annual event the OCC has sponsored, going three years strong, is a series of walks and activities for SUMMER 2015
which are held during “Turn Off TV Week.” The effort to get kids away from the television and involved in educational projects enjoyed wild success in its first year, with more than 80 parents and children in attendance. The event invites families on a guided walk along the Wepawaug River along with a history lecture of some early mill-related industries during the Civil War. The school’s PTA provides snacks for the children as well as hands-on nature activities, such as making birdfeeders out of pinecones. Each year, families come out in even greater numbers.
Even Connecticut’s harsh winters present chances for the OCC to bring children and the outdoors together. The commission seeks a cross country ski leader to teach children on the snowy trails of the Racebrook Tract. Eagle Scout leader, Will Ruddell recently completed building a shelter that can be used as an open classroom and to assemble skiing gear.
For last year’s Earth Day, commission members held guided walks at Racebrook Tract for children of Racebrook School. Racebrook Tract is one of the largest open spaces in the area with more than 230 acres in Orange as well as 181 acres in Woodbridge. Four trails offer scenic routes through many kinds of native trees as well as indigenous flora. Birdwatchers come to the tract yearround to spot all manner of species in the wetlands. Racebrook School requested that the OCC repeat the event this year. “We want to create opportunities for children all over the town,” Ewen said. “We’re planning events for Peck Place School as well.”
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taught by Zoning Enforcement Officer and fishing enthusiast, Paul Denise. The class, designed for children ages 8-10, introduces them to this unique style of fishing. BRINGING SCIENCE TO SCHOOLS
The OCC is excited to bring science education to children in the schools through outdoor learning programs. In tandem with Mike Ross, OCC Consultant who works for the Connecticut Science Museum, the commission plans to form a series of programs available to students. With Mike Ross at the helm of the project, program designs are underway for Racebrook School students on the Racebrook Tract. Similar programs will be offered to Peck Place students once the commission determines an open space. Children and their families enjoy a walk on the Racebrook Tract in early spring.
Another item on the OCC’s agenda for the coming year includes arranging a fly fishing class to be
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The Turkey Hill Preserve, in particular, is receiving a good deal of attention in 2015. This preserve is Orange’s largest open space, with its 376 acres offering a wide variety of experiences. Ledges, ridges, vernal
pools, gorges, water bodies and more speckle the landscape. A steep but conquerable 100-foot hill presents a challenge to ambitious hikers. The site is being actively developed for more uses and its list of offerings will only lengthen. The OCC is looking into installing a small floating dock at the pond to facilitate some of the school science programs as well as a graveled parking location, complete with access barrier. The OCC provides a number of opportunities for the Eagle Scouts of the town. Eagle Scout projects for Turkey Hill Preserve include the construction of pedestrian bridges over wet areas and benches for the outdoor classroom. The scouts will help reroute trails away from wet zones, as well as enjoy the chance to build and install birdhouses and nesting boxes for owls and ducks. “It helps them get involved in the community,” Ewen said. “And they are a great help to us.” 쮿
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Orange Conservation Workday SUNDAY, MAY 17TH – 1:00 TO 4:00PM
Racebrook Tract - In the spirit of Spring cleaning, the OCC will have a “Workday” at 1:00 pm on Sunday, May 17th at the Racebrook Tract. Parking is at the GPS address 839 Racebrook Road. We will be cleaning and clearing trails, brush and fallen branches and enjoying being in the out of doors in this beautiful spot. Please dress appropriately for the outdoors, bring your work gloves and tools. There will be a lot of clearing of the trails and branches at the entrance. We will work till 4:00 p.m. If it should rains check website for rain date: www.orangectconservationcommission.com
CT Trail Days Hosted by Orange and Woodbridge Conservation Commission SATURDAY, JUNE 6TH – 10:00 AM TO 1:00PM
Racebrook Tract Walk – The Orange and Woodbridge Conservation Commissions will celebrate “Connecticut Trails Day” by jointly hosting a hike in the Racebrook Tract between 10 am and 1:00 pm. All are invited to enjoy this scenic hiking area via a free guided walking tour. Families and children are welcome, and comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. There will be a guided walk leaving at 10:30 pm. BYO water and refreshments, and all dogs must be leashed. Steady rain or lightning cancels, with Sunday June 7 as the rain date. For more information, contact: Dan Lynch, Orange Park & Recreation: 203-891-4790. Orange Conservation Website for additional info: www.orangectconservationcommission.com
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Enjoy a Whole New Experience at Connecticut’s Only Zoo WRITTEN BY: CARYN KAUFMAN
An Amur Leopard on Display at the Beardsley Zoo. Photo by Shannon Calvert.
While Connecticut’s only zoo opened over 90 years ago, this familyfriendly gem works to make sure there’s always something new at the zoo. No matter what season you visit, guests are delighted by the animal antics, new exhibits, and engaging programs for kids of all ages. Just a short drive from home brings you this beautiful urban oasis. The zoo is situated on 33 acres in historic Beardsley Park, which was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, of Central Park fame. Featuring 300 animals representing primarily North and South American species, the zoo features both exotic animals as well as perennial favorites.
walkway will offer panoramic views as well as a glimpse into the animals’ distinctive habitats. Guests will discover Giant anteaters and will learn how different feeding adaptations, like the anteater’s long snout and tongue, help animals to thrive in varied environments. FAMILY FAVORITES BRING LOTS OF SMILES
WHAT’S NEW AT THE ZOO
From big cats to llamas to anteaters, this year, the zoo welcomes several new animals and will open a new exhibit, too. This winter, a majestic male Amur (Siberian) tiger named Petya and two Amur leopards, a brother and sister, have taken up residence. Petya joins our female Amur tiger, Naka, and there is hope that these two will be a love match that produces tiger cubs some day. Featuring animals from the Pampas region of Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil, the new Pampas Plains exhibit will open this spring including Vicuña and Giant anteaters. “What’s most exciting is that we will be one of only a handful of zoos in the 50
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United States to exhibit Vicuña, the smallest South American relative of the camel and llama,” explains Gregg Dancho, Zoo director. “Vicuña have not been on exhibit in the United States in 20 years. Likewise, we have not had Giant anteaters at our zoo in over 30 years. This is an incredible opportunity for our visitors to see these graceful animals up close and personal.” In addition to Vicuña and Giant anteaters, the new Pampas Plains South American exhibit will feature Chacoan peccaries and Greater rhea, as well as plants and grasses native to this South American region. A
With so many animals to see, it’s hard to pick favorites but there’s no doubt that our otters are among them. With a recently redesigned exhibit, these playful animals splish and splash all day long, making for great photo opps. Other fan favorites include our: • “Pop up” prairie dog exhibit with tunnels for up close and personal viewing of these delightful critters; • Wolf observation station, featuring incredibly rare Red Wolves. Just 100 red wolves roam their native habitats in eastern North Carolina, and only 200 Red Wolves are maintained in captive breeding facilities throughout the United States;
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• “Alligator Alley” exhibit, which is home to two alligators and other animals from the southern United States; • The New England Farmyard with goats, cows, pigs, sheep, and other barnyard critters; • Hoofstock trail featuring bison, pronghorn, and deer, and. • South American rainforest with free-flight aviary, our Brazilian ocelot, adorable Golden lion tamarin monkeys, and much more. If that’s not enough, visitors can get some refreshments at the Peacock Café, eat in the Picnic Grove, and enjoy a ride on our colorful, indoor carousel. Just outside the carousel is a playscape, designed to inspire active playing, including rocks for climbing, a spider web to crawl on, a log to crawl through, and several rocks and logs to leap off. SUMMER FUN
Back by popular demand, this summer’s visitors will enjoy a special tortoise exhibit plus our three camels will return, as well. Camel rides make great memories and are the perfect photo opp to share on social media! “Every day is Hump Day this summer at Connecticut’s only zoo!” jokes Dancho. “Guests can’t get enough of our kissable camels so if you’ve never seen one up close, this is your chance!”
Every day is Hump Day as guests of the Zoo may take a camel ride. Photo by Shannon Calvert.
Reptiles Shows this summer. Experience direct contact with live animals, artifacts, and interesting stories about these uncommon animals and their natural habitats. EDUCATION PROGRAMS ENGAGE BOTH KIDS AND ADULTS ALL YEAR LONG
An important part of the zoo’s mission is to engage and educate diverse audiences about the delicate balance that exists between living things and their environment. Our programs include:
• Zoo Tots: a monthly 45-minute program, for children 22 months to four years who are accompanied by an adult, that includes stories,
Family favorite Chris Rowlands will be back for several limited engagements, too. Famous for getting everyone involved, Rowlands brings animals to life through kid-friendly songs, dance, puppets, and colorful props. Chris creatively blends music, comedy, and education to create fast paced, interactive shows that teach and inspire young people. Children are invited to wear fun hats and sing along with Rowlands on stage as he shares his self-penned songs about animals and their environment. Free with paid admission to the Zoo. For those who enjoy colorful crawlers, unusual slitherers, and fascinating creepers, all of which are creatures of the rainforest, don’t miss the return engagement of Rainforest SUMMER 2015
games, crafts, and a live animal presentation.
• Zoo Patrol: If your kids love animals, the environment and being outdoors then they’ll love Zoo Patrol, a week during the summer of Zoo Keeper talks, behind the scenes tours, hands-on learning, games, crafts and more! Sessions are designed for ages 6-8, 9-11, and 12-14 year olds.
• Explorers: Explorers are young men and women 14-18 years old who are exploring career options. The Zoo’s Explorer program provides a yearlong opportunity to investigate Zoo careers from animal care to development and marketing, to visitor services and maintenance to Zoo director. The program includes career workshops with hands-on activities on topics such as animal care, horticulture, research and conservation, education, visitor services, and more. Explorers also take part in job shadows, develop a public presentation, and create a year-end project.
• Evening Lecture Series: This is
Peacock roam the Beardsley Zoo. Photo by Shannon Calvert.
for audiences of all ages, especially lifelong learners, who have an appetite for delving deeper into the wonders of wildlife. Attending these programs allows visitors to live vicariously through our experts, who often have had incredible close encounters with creatures across the globe.
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Mark Your Calendar! The zoo offers special events all year long. Be sure to mark your calendar for these family favorites: April 18-19: Party for the Planet
October 17-31: Scarecrows on Parade
April 25: Pet Awareness Day
October 17, 23, 24, 30, and 31: Howl-O-Ween
May 15: Endangered Species Day
October 26: Boo at the Zoo
May 10: Mother's Day
December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20: Breakfast with Frosty
June 6: World Oceans Day June 6: Wild Wine, Beer & Food Safari (This is an adults-only event) June 13: Animal Enrichment Day June 21: Father’s Day July 4: Red, White, & Blue Animal Scavenger Hunt August 15: Dinosaur / Archeology Day September 12: Teddy Bear Fest September 28: Golf Tournament October 10: Brew at the Zoo (This is an adults-only event)
To learn more, visit www.BeardsleyZoo.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn!
Graphic Design
C R E AT I V E E XC E L L E N C E
Viktor, A Bengal Tiger resides at the Beardsley Zoo. Photo by Shannon Calvert.
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $14.00. Children (ages 3-11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $11.00, and children under 3 years old are free. Zoo members also are admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge.
Branding Brochures Logos Marketing Materials
S T R AT E G I C C O M M U N I C AT I O N
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Dale J Pavlik Creative Director Owner
DJP Design LLC Orange CT
203 675 0430 C dale@djpdesignllc.com www.djpdesignllc.com
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Make STEAM a Priority by Making Fun a Priority WRITTEN BY: KIMBERLY KICK, OWNER OF THE GODDARD SCHOOL
Although they do not realize it, children’s minds are wired for STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) because they are naturally fascinated by those subjects. STEAM-related jobs make up the fastest growing segment of the U.S. economy. This is expected to increase over time as children eventually join the workforce. Today, however, too few college graduates are pursuing STEAM-related careers. High-quality preschool programs that introduce STEAM concepts early on help to promote children’s natural curiosity in STEAM, increasing the chance that children will pursue STEAM-related careers later on in life.
When children daydream, they imagine things like exploring the depths of the ocean, traveling to distant planets and going back in time to experience dinosaurs’ first-hand. preschool program uses play-based activities to make STEAM more accessible and fun. For example, when children play with blocks, they are not just playing with blocks. Rather, they are building (no pun intended) engineering skills.
A first-rate preschool program should also provide a safe, nurturing environment where children can make many supportable choices, independently explore learning materials and develop socialization skills as they interact with others.
Innovation and creativity are valuable skills in today’s world. Companies like Apple and Google highly value those skills as well as the abilities to communicate well, collaborate with colleagues and think critically and creatively (4Cs). This is where the “A” in STEAM comes in. The arts help children to develop the 4Cs, thus allowing them to grow into more well-rounded individuals. It is not enough to simply introduce STEAM learning to children, though. These concepts should be presented in a fun, playful way. An effective 54
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It should be comprised of childfocused lesson plans, a creative and fun atmosphere and a personalized child-centered approach that focuses on each child’s development as well. Since each child develops skills at a different rate, it is important to have a program that allows teachers to adjust and make changes based upon the learning of the children in their care. Parents can also help encourage their children’s interests by turning their homes into mini laboratories. This can be as simple as introducing children to things like cooking and gardening. Here are three examples of easy STEAM experiments that can be performed at home:
• Milk Fireworks: Pour whole milk into a baking pan. Add drops of red and blue food coloring. Add a “squirt” or two of dishwashing liquid, and watch the colors burst and swirl! When the “fireworks” slow down, add another couple of drops of dishwashing liquid to get them going again. Explanation: The soap separates the fat from the other liquids in the milk, causing patterns to appear.
• Dancing Raisins: Put raisins (or dried corn or macaroni) in a clear cup. Fill the cup with lemon-lime soda. Watch how the raisins bob and sink in the cup. Ask your child what makes the raisins do this. Explanation: The gas bubbles in the soda lift each raisin up, and when the bubbles reach the surface and pop, the raisins sink.
• Salt & Vinegar Pennies: Put ¼ cup of white vinegar into a clear plastic or glass bowl. Add one teaspoon of table salt and stir until the salt dissolves. Dip a dull, dirty penny halfway into the liquid, holding it there for 10 to 20 seconds. Remove the penny from the liquid. What does your child see? Explanation: Salt and vinegar create a weak acid that dissolves copper oxide, which is the tarnish on a dull penny. Not all learning should take place in the classroom or inside the home, however. Spending time outside SUMMER 2015
provides excellent opportunities for meaningful, fun learning. Two examples of outdoor, hands-on activities are:
• The Behavior of Water: Children pour water onto different ground areas and observe how the water moves and absorbs into the ground. They discuss the differences they observe. Are they able to do anything to the ground to make the water absorb faster or run off quickly and not absorb?
• Insect Investigation: With crayons and paper in hand, children search for insects. Once they find one, they observe it, draw it and describe what it is doing. A parent can guide conversations about why insects have specific features, what they do with those features and how it helps the insects survive. STEAM learning is crucial, especially in this day and age. It prepares children for success in school and life while helping them become wellrounded people. The best way to inspire a passion in STEAM learning is for children to have fun with it because research has shown that children experience the deepest, most genuine learning when they are having fun. 쮿
Save the Date BOE OLYMPICS: JUNE 3RD
Elementary school students will be able to show off their athletic abilities at the annual OBOE School Olympics at the Orange Fairgrounds on Wednesday, June 3rd from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Rain date June 4th. The day includes races, softball throwing competitions and other events. Jim Ronai hosts the Olympics with music and announcing by Ed Choiniere. Medals are presented to the winners. ORANGE EXPO: JUNE 10TH
The 14th Annual Orange Business and Community Expo will take place at the High Plains Community Center on Wednesday, June 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking and admission are free. The event includes 58 vendors from Orange businesses and community groups, food, networking opportunities and raffles throughout the day. STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL: JUNE 13
The 7th annual Orange Congregational Church Strawberry Festival will, once again take place at the Orange Fairgrounds on Orange Center Road. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, June 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a rain date of Sunday, June 14. The events includes the best fresh strawberry shortcake around, children's games, raffle, food, vendors and the All Red Auto Show.
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Smoothie King Owner, Kevin Glazier poses for a photo with staff.
Located on 350 Boston Post Road, Smoothie King inspires people to live a healthy and active lifestyle by offering its customers nutritional fruit and function-based, fresh blended smoothies. First opening in 1973 as a vitamin shop in Louisiana, Smoothie King now comprises over 650 locations operating in the United States, the Republic of Korea, Singapore and the Caymans. Kevin Glazier, who decided to open the first Smoothie King in the state in Orange during December 2013, now owns all three branches of the franchise in Connecticut, including stores in Branford and Darien.
Smoothie King Offers Orange Residents a Sip of Health WRITTEN BY: ALYSSA DAVANZO
A delicious piece of the south now satisfies the taste buds of Orange residents. something,” Kevin said. “The menu can be daunting because there are so many flavor profiles and people like different things, but workers are always willing to make recommendations.” VARIETY OF ENHANCERS
“Whatever your purpose is or whatever you’re trying to accomplish, we have a smoothie that will match your purpose,” Kevin said. “Whether you’re trying to bulk up for the gym, lose weight, burn fat or if you want something for protein as a meal replacement, we have something for everyone.” EXTENSIVE MENU
Smoothie King’s extensive menu stretches along an entire wall and features refreshing fruit smoothies and nourishing smoothie meals. There are also local selections, which are specially picked by the staff. Parents should know that “Kid’s Cups” contain 100% of RDA vitamins. “When people come in for the first time, it can be hard for them to pick SUMMER 2015
Not only can customers add enhancers such as fiber blend, multi vitamin and energy to their drinks, but they also have the option of mixing and matching ingredients to create their perfect blend. “The energy enhancer is great for brain function and mental awareness,” said Operations Manager Casey Finn. “When people stop at Smoothie King for breakfast, it gives them the jolt that they need to get through the day, and it’s a longlasting energy so they won’t crash during the day. The multi-vitamins are great for cardiovascular health and just a great all-around enhancer.” Kevin says he has witnessed smoothies’ aid in his customers’ weight loss.
Pineapple Mango Greek Yogurt and Strawberry Extreme Smoothies.
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“I know a senior in high school who buys two smoothies per day and she’s lost eight or nine pounds by incorporating the smoothies into her routine,” Kevin said. “What we look for is to be a meal replacer every now and then, serving as a healthy alternative.” NOT JUST SMOOTHIES
In addition to supplements and proteins, Smoothie King sells snacks, such as protein bars, kale and apple chips, nuts and dried fruits packed with vitamins and minerals. Healthy snacking helps customers maintain purpose between meals. Smoothie King Beverages offer healthful options for conference venues and business meetings. “Instead of bagels and cream cheese, imagine if your boss gave everyone a breakfast smoothie,” Laurie Miers, Marketing Director said. “All of a sudden, your production just gets better. Your whole attitude gets better.”
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Admitting that planning fundraisers can be stressful to plan, Laurie says that organizing a fundraiser at Smoothie King is easy and hasslefree. “Local sports teams have hosted spirit nights at Smoothie King,” she said. “We give back 20% of our sales to teams. It’s a nice way for them to enjoy something healthy and make money at the same time. There’s no set-up or clean up committee!” ACTUALLY VERY HEALTHY
Laurie says that new customers tend to have misconceptions about the healthiness of smoothies. “They think a smoothie is basically milk and a highly caloric drink that is sweet like a dessert,” she said. “What they might not realize is that smoothies at Smoothie King are water-based. Customers could have the Turbinado, raw sugar or they can take it out. They can get the protein and fruit and add enhancers. Many times they drink a smoothie and realize only 200 calories was consumed and that’s nothing.”
Smoothie King has held an on-going promotion since the winter that encourages customers to stop by between 7:00-9:00 a.m. or 7:00-9:00 p.m. to enjoy medium smoothies for only $5 as opposed to the normal cost of $7.39. Through its participation in body building competitions, health fairs and charities, Smoothie King has played an active role in the wellness of the Orange community. “After going to the gym, people who need protein within a half hour after their workouts will come here,” Laurie said. “If you are an incredible, professional athlete, you have a drink here.” Pleasing Smoothie King customers is Kevin’s number one concern. “Once people stop in the store and try a smoothie, they tend to really like it,” Kevin said. “If we see someone make a face when they taste their smoothie, we’ll make them something else. We want every one of our customers to be happy.” 쮿
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Summer and Fall Calendar WRITTEN BY: MARY BIALY
Fun events to look forward to in the months ahead. BOARD OF EDUCATION OLYMPICS: JUNE 3RD
ORANGE FARMERS MARKET: JUNE 25TH – OCTOBER 29TH
Elementary school students will be able to show off their athletic abilities at the annual OBOE School Olympics at the Orange Fairgrounds on Wednesday, June 3rd from 4 p.m. 7 p.m. Rain date June 4th. The day includes races, softball throwing competitions and other events. Jim Ronai hosts the Olympics with music and announcing by Ed Choiniere. Medals are presented to the winners.
First Annual Orange Farmers Market will take place every Thursday starting June 25th and ending October 29th from 3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at High Plains Community Center.
ORANGE BUSINESS & COMMUNITY EXPO: JUNE 10TH
The 14th Annual Orange Business and Community Expo will take place at the High Plains Community Center on Wednesday, June 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking and admission are free. The event includes 58 vendors from Orange businesses and community groups, food, networking opportunities and raffles throughout the day. STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL: JUNE 13
The 7th annual Orange Congregational Church Strawberry Festival will, once again take place at the Orange Fairgrounds on Orange Center Road. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, June 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a rain date of Sunday, June 14. The events includes the best fresh strawberry shortcake around, children's games, raffle, food, vendors and the All Red Auto Show.
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DOC'S RACE: JUNE 28TH
The third annual Doc Whitney 5K Road Race will take place at the High Plains Community Center on Sunday, June 28. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Step off is at 10 a.m. Proceeds will go to the Orange Country Fair, an event that was near and dear to Doc Whitney's heart. INDEPENDENCE DAY CONCERT AND FIREWORKS: JULY 4TH
The annual 4th of July concert and fireworks will take place at the Orange Fairgrounds on Sunday, July 5th with a rain date of July 6th. The con- cert begins at 6:30 p.m. Fire-works will light up the sky at 9:30 p.m. Hotel California (Eagles Tribute) to perform. FIREMEN'S CARNIVAL: JULY 30TH – AUGUST 2ND
The Orange Volunteer Firemen’s Carnival will take place at the Orange Fairgrounds Thursday, July 30 – Sunday, Aug. 2. This annual event attracts visitors from miles away and proceeds from the Main Food Tent and Firemen’s Satellite Food Tent as well as several games that the firefighter’s host go to the Volunteer Fire Association for the purchase of equipment and training costs.
ORANGE COUNTRY FAIR: SEPTEMBER 19-20TH
The annual Orange Country Fair will take place at the Orange Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept 19 – Sunday, Sept. 20. This wonderful agricultural fair includes exhibits, contests, and old fashioned small town spirit that one would expect in Orange. The Pig Races are always a favorite as is the women’s frying pan toss and garden tractor pull. Start getting your plants, photos and collections ready now and compete for the coveted Best in Show ribbon. ORANGE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT: SEPTEMBER 18TH
The 9th Annual Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, September 18th, at Orange Hills Country Club, 389 Racebrook Road, Orange. Fees are $175.00 per golfer with dinner included. Funds to support the Orange Economic Development Corporation. Call 203-891-1045 to reserve your space or visit us at Orangeedc.com MODEL TRAIN SHOW: OCTOBER 12TH
The New Haven & Derby Model Railroad Club will host its annual Model Train Show at the High Plains Community Center, Sunday, October 11th - Monday October 12th, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. There will be more than 100 vendor tables throughout the building selling everything railroad related, from model train cars, to miniatures, fullsized oil lanterns, postcards and so much more. Children and adults love the running displays making this a fine family event. ROTARY CLUB OF ORANGE TURKEY TROT: NOVEMBER 26TH
The Rotary Club of Orange will host its third annual road race, at 8:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 26 at High Plains Community Center. This race is a USTAF Sanctioned event with splits at 1, 2 and 3 miles. Proceeds benefit the Rotary’s humanitarian support and charitable services. 쮿 SUMMER 2015
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Get Ready for the Annual Relay for Life WRITTEN BY: KAREN SINGER
The event begins Saturday afternoon, May 30, 2015, at the High Plains Community, 525 Orange Center Road, and ends Sunday morning. As in previous years, the relay will include a lap for survivors and caregivers (6:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.) and a Luminaria ceremony, starting at 9 p.m., to honor people who have cancer or have died from it. Luminaria bags with glow sticks to line the track will be available for $5 apiece. “We are again asking everyone to put cans of food in the bottom of the bags, which will be donated to the Orange Community Services food bank,” Plaskowitz says. Purple balloons emblazoned with “Relay for Life” and the American Cancer Society logo, a hot item last year, will again be on sale. Evening entertainment includes Lunchbox Band and a Boppers DJ. New this year is a chalk-drawing contest on the fairground’s concrete pad. Squares costing $20 go on sale at 2 p.m. Saturday. Relay Team, “Hope Has No Curfew” enjoy their laps around the track.
Local organizers are hoping to exceed last year’s total of $112,000 in donations raised for the American Cancer Society (ACS) by 65 teams and 850 participants. As of April 10, 2015, 51 teams and 327 participants had raised nearly $14,000. Teams include Create a Cure, Amity Boys Swimming and Diving, All Night for the Fight, The Tumorators and Amity Girls Volleyball. The teams camp out on the community center’s fairgrounds and members take turns walking or 66
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running around the track throughout the night. “Relay for Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember those that have lost the battle, honor the caregivers and help to fight back against the disease,” says Relay for Life BOW co-chair Lynn Plaskowitz. Gates open at noon on May 30 and all team captains must check in between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. Team fundraising runs from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Opening ceremonies begin at 6 p.m.
As of press time, this year’s honoree and the 11 p.m. movie had not been chosen. Closing ceremonies are from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Sunday, following a free breakfast sponsored by Chips. Relay for Life began in May 1985, when Gordon Klatt, a surgeon in Tacoma, Washington, walked and ran for 24 hours around a track, raising $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. Since then, the relay has gone global with more than four million participants in more than 20 countries raising $5 billion each year. “Cancer affects everybody in the community in some way or other and Relay for Life is the largest event in SUMMER 2015
Freda’s daughter, Tara, found out about the relay online, and urged her mother to form a team. They raised around $3,5000 the first year and nearly $5,000 in 2014 by selling cancer buttons, making cupcake lollipops and organizing a special event at a local restaurant. “My granddaughter was with us every weekend, trying to get donations,” Freda says. “The first year we were just in such shock that the relay helped us heal a little bit, by giving us a purpose, being with other people and knowing it’s O.K. to still grieve.” Families and friends participate in the Survivor and Care Giver Lap.
the world aimed at eliminating cancer,” says Hayley Foster, the American Cancer Society community manager for the BOW relay.
“Some people get involved just as they begin treatment while others start after their treatments.”
“People are so extremely generous,” says Angela Booth, team captain of Jawa’s Boob Crew, a top relay fundraiser for the last several years. The crew’s 2015 goal is $6,000.
Most Relay for Life fundraising occurs in late April and early May but some teams solicit donations all year with car washes, bowling nights, athletic team tournaments, T-shirt sales and other activities.
Booth, 48, is celebrating two milestones this year. “I am five years breast cancer free and one year bladder cancer free,” she says. “I think about how I’m happy to still be here. We’ve lost so many people to cancer, but so many people are fighting it and winning.”
“The swim team has bracelets they sell every year, and some people sell baked goods and other items on-site during the relay,” Plaskowitz says. “High school students get involved tremendously. We are hoping for more adult teams on the roster this year and more local business involvement.”
The American Cancer Society allocates money raised from Relay for Life to cancer research and support programs providing free lodging for patients and caregivers, transportation to treatments and beauty advice for women undergoing chemotherapy and radiation.
Jo-Ann Freda is gearing up for her third Relay for Life, to honor the memory of her late husband, Michael, who died of gastric cancer in 2013, and her late father-in-law, who died two weeks before his son.
Last year, Freda and her daughter were recipients of the first annual Bob Rauch Team Award, named for a popular local dentist who raised thousands of dollars for the BOW Relay for Life for many years before succumbing to cancer in 2013. “Bob was like the rainbow that would brighten your life after you have been through the storm,” Plaskowitz says. “His award is for the team that is the most enthusiastic and shows the real reason for the relay, which is not all about the money.” For more information on the BOW Relay for Life, visit: http://relay.acsevents.org/site/PageSer ver?pagename=relay You can make a difference even if you miss the Relay for Life. Learn how at: http://www.cancer.org/involved/more waystogive/index?gclid=CMvz2MaL4 MQCFSgV7AodMB4AcA 쮿
The relay is Booth’s way of giving back. “The ACS was there for me,” she says, “offering rides, providing wigs for free and teaching me how to do my makeup.” Though the event is “very solemn but uplifting,” Booth adds, “for me it’s also a time when I can get my entire family together and really have a good time, and get to see a lot of our friends.” Relay teams often return for several years. “It depends where people are in their battle,” Plaskowitz says. SUMMER 2015
Luminarias for Loved Ones.
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