On the Shoreline February 2025

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Demonstration

In the event that you have a hearing loss, you will have the opportunity to evaluate hearing aids that have been accurately and professionally tuned specifically for your hearing loss. Your instrument will be chosen from several different brands based upon your specific needs, value, sound quality, and reliability. Expires 3/31/25

The Spring Market is Blooming!

IT’S THE SEASON OF NEW BEGINNINGS

The spring market is the perfect time to consider selling your home. You can continue to trust the world’s premier luxury residential real estate brokerage to guide you through every step of the process. With expertise on the local level, combined with access to important international markets, I can ensure that the homes I represent receive the far-reaching exposure they deserve.

Let’s sit down together and explore how you can leverage the latest market conditions to your advantage.

Magda (left) and Josh Rayner (right) on the steps of Essex Coffee & Tea Company, the site of their first date. The couple had their wedding in the heart of Essex.
Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy

FROM THE EDITOR

ALICIA GOMEZ

Dear readers, Love is in the air! This issue lands just in time for Valentine’s Day, the perfect holiday for pink, red, and romance fans. I’m sure many are now planning weddings or will be soon, with wedding season just on the horizon. Thankfully, you don’t have to look far for the perfect honeymoon location or wedding venue. Our shoreline towns have picturesque venues, luxurious experiences, and small businesses that can give your day a personal and unique touch.

In this issue, we meet a couple who decided to celebrate their dream wedding in Essex. We also spotlight local honeymoon destinations to help you plan a close-to-home getaway.

Additionally, we also look at stunning submissions to The Day’s annual southeastern Connecticut calendar for February and March.

We have also started a new magazine section highlighting two new fantastic food spots! In this issue, we explore The Shed at Mohegan Sun and Saybrook Swell in downtown Old Saybrook.

Of course, an issue of On the Shoreline wouldn’t be complete without celebrating the achievements of our community. In honor of Black History Month, we decided to take a look at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Trust Fund. We got a chance to talk to some scholarship winners whose stories and aspirations are sure to give you a boost in motivation.

I hope you enjoy this issue of On the Shoreline. We would love to hear your thoughts. Please connect with us on the On the Shoreline Magazine Facebook page.

Sincerely,

Alicia Gomez

THE DAY PUBLISHING COMPANY 860-442-2200 theday.com

SHORE PUBLISHING 203-245-1877 zip06.com

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER

Timothy C. Dwyer t.dwyer@theday.com

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Laura Giannelli l.giannelli@theday.com

DIRECTOR OF SALES

James Mitchell j.mitchell@theday.com

SHORE PUBLICATIONS EDITOR

Laura Robida l.robida@shorepublishing.com

SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR

Alicia Gomez a.gomez@shorepublishing.com

LAYOUT EDITOR

Barb Dunn b.dunn@theday.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Laura Carpenter l.carpenter@shorepublishing.com

Victoria Courtney v.courtney@theday.com

Khaleed Fields k.fields@theday.com

Lori Gregan l.gregan@shorepublishing.com

Jack Hyzak j.hyzak@shorepublishing.com

Betsy Lemkin b.lemkin@shorepublishing.com

Kristen Lennon k.lennon@theday.com

Lisa Martin l.martin@shorepublishing.com

ADVERTISING DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Heidi Carrier, Kara Conlon, Jennifer Corthell, Chris Dobbins, Alan Ellis, Nicole Martini, Richard Swanson

ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS BY Gretchen A. Peck, Jennifer Carmichael, Jenn McCulloch, Elle Rahilly

© Copyright 2025 by The Day Publishing Company and Shore Publishing

All rights reserved. Reproductions without the permission of the publisher are prohibited.

The views and opinions expressed in each article are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of On the Shoreline, The Day Publishing Company, or Shore Publishing. on the cover Josh and Magda Rayner were married at the Essex Green. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy

Honorable mentions

Every year, The Day asks readers to submit photos for a chance to be featured in our annual southeastern Connecticut calendar. We get hundreds of entries, and it ’s difficult to narrow those down to our favorite 36 for voting.

There are a number of reasons a photo might not make it to the top three for each month. We have strict guidelines for photo content and quality. Photos that use filters, contain people or pets, contain a single focal point (such as a flower or butterfly), are not representative of the area (a close-up of shells on the beach with no water, sand, or sky), or are not a horizontal orientation all have to be filtered out—no matter how beautiful the image might be. We also screen photos for quality to ensure they fall within our printing parameters.

This year, we’ve decided to share some of our favorites that didn’t make it to the finals for one reason or another. We hope you continue to share your photos with us each year.

Gypsy Woods, North Stonington photo by Diane CriDer
Bank Street, New London. photo by DonalD WieCh
Eastern Point Beach, Groton. photo by Kathleen SCoviSh
Jordan Cove, Waterford. photo by thomaS WieCzoreK

February–March

Saybrook Swell

Kameryn King, a lifelong Old Saybrook resident, has always appreciated Old Saybrook for its charm. However, she recognized the need for a business that encourages healthy lifestyles , a cause King says she is passionate about. That’s why in October 2024, King opened Saybrook Swell, a superfood and acai shop, with the support of her family, friends, and staff. King says her vision for the shop was for it to honor Old Saybrook . To accomplish that goal, she had the help of local artisans, who she partnered with to make the space feel like “a natural extension of the town’s unique character,” she says

“My goal for Swell is to be more than just a business; I want it to be a place where people feel connected, inspired, and supported in their pursuit of a healthier lifestyle,” says King.

Offering vegan-friendly, dairy-free, and gluten-free options, Saybrook Swell

sells smoothie bowls, smoothies, toasts, coffee, teas, chais, and other morning essentials and health boosts.

Saybrook Swell is located at 188 Main Street in Old Saybrook. Hours are Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. For more information, call 959-746-2078 or visit saybrookswell.com.

ABOVE S aybrook Swell’s grand opening. Photo courtesy of Kameryn King
BELOW S aybrook Swell’s seasonal pumpkin pie smoothie.
Photo courtesy of Kameryn King

The Shed

The Shed Restaurant opened its fif th location at Mohegan Sun in October 2024. With its scratch-made menu, it serves brunch, lunch and dinner all day in a “beach-chic” ambiance. Its focus is American comfort and casual food, featuring staples like brioche French toast with banana, brown sugar, and maple syrup, gluten-free breakfast bowls, burgers and sandwiches, and more. According to The Shed, any dish can be customized to be made vegan, making The Shed the only restaurant in Mohegan Sun to offer vegan dining.

“The Shed has become a beloved destination for people of all ages,” says Melissa Sorice, the director of brand development at The Shed.

T he Shed is located at 1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard in Uncasville. Operating hours are Sunday and Tuesday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., and Friday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–11 p.m. For more information, call 860-862-1300 or visit intheshed.com/mohegansun.

The Shed’s chicken and waffles are typically served with spicy habanero honey.
Photo courtesy of the shed
The Shed Burger (American, Swiss, lettuce, tomato, onion jam, shed sauce). Photo courtesy of the shed

Ryan Connelly

203.668.9050 ryan.connelly@cbrealty.com

Erin Connelly

203.668.9696 erin.connelly@cbrealty.com

Frank Connelly 203.605.1491 frank.connelly@cbrealty.com

a picture-perfect

LEFT Josh (left) and Magda Rayner (right) are back at the scene where they had their first photo taken on their first date. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy
ABOVE The Rayners at The Griswold Inn, where they held an intimate dinner celebration. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy
RIGHT The Rayners’ ceremony at the Essex Green. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy

wedding in Essex

With scenic river views, historic venues, and

thoughtful

local

touches, Essex creates the ideal setting for an unforgettable celebration

Awedding day is among the most significant moments in life, and choosing the perfect location sets the stage for all the memories that will follow. While destination weddings outside Connecticut may seem appealing, you don't have to go far. With its sweeping views of the Connecticut River, boutiques, restaurants, parks, and historic seafaring character, Essex offers a picturesque setting with plenty of options for that special day.

who had shared many walks and coffee dates in Essex—starting with their first date at Essex Coffee & Tea during the pandemic—chose Main Street Park, nestled on Middle Cove along the Connecticut River, as the backdrop for their ceremony on June 29, 2024. Afterward, they strolled down the street for an intimate dinner celebration at The Griswold Inn (also known as “The Gris”).

Magda and Josh Rayner pulled off their dream Essex wedding in just a week and a half, with everything falling perfectly into place. Though they envisioned exchanging vows by the water, they weren't looking for a beach. Instead, the couple,

"We wanted a place that connected our first date with family members who aren't with us anymore," says Magda, who is originally from Poland but lived in South Windsor when she met Josh, who is from Ivoryton. "Josh's late grandfather did some carpentry work at the Family Cottage at The Gris, where I stayed the night before the wedding and where we stayed

New Year, New Real Estate Market

REACH OUT IF YOU WANT TO HAVE A COFFEE AND CHAT ABOUT THE LOCAL MARKET!

Tina Rupp, realtor® Gold Award Winner, Essex Brokerage, 2019–2023* 917.207.2762 • trupp@williampitt.com tinarupp.williampitt.com

Essex Brokerage: 13 Main Street, Essex

*Source: William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty 2019-2023 Awards Recognition, Essex Brokerage. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

DOWN THE AISLE

after. The town of Essex and The Gris felt like the perfect location to honor both."

The Gris has hosted small weddings, rehearsal dinners, post-wedding brunches, and bridal showers for over two centuries. The couple worked with Claudia Odekerken, private events manager at The Gris, who ensured everything was seamless. 24 guests enjoyed dinner in the private steamboat dining room. And while they were offered a selection of entrées, everyone opted for the filet mignon, which Magda remembers as the "best meal ever."

"We have hosted countless celebrations over these many years and feel so fortunate to help create memorable events to mark momentous occasions. And by choosing The Gris for a wedding celebration, a couple is making their history a part of ours. That's gratifying," says Joan Paul, coowner of The Gris.

Out-of-state guests had a wonderful stay at The Gris, ideally situated for the day's celebration and the rehearsal dinner the night before at Noah's at 63 Main, a little further down the street. Though the restaurant offers a private room, Magda opted for a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. She chose to seat everyone family-style at a long table by the windows in the dining room. Here, Magda says they enjoyed beautiful water views and delicious food.

Noah's can also host larger events, whether inside or outside, on its beautiful waterside lawn. Right next door, the Connecticut River Museum offers many options, from intimate celebrations to parties of up to 150 guests, right on the river. The River Front Lawn provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The North Deck and Boathouse are connected spaces most often used together for the ceremony and cocktail hour, and the Upper Lawn at the Lay House offers river views but is set back a bit for more privacy. In addition, you can also rent the entire campus.

“It’s breathtaking here on the river, and you get that quintessential New England feeling.” Tiffany Zwart
ABOVE The Rayners at The Griswold Inn, where they held an intimate dinner celebration.
Photo by Jazmyn alvarez
PhotograPhy
LEFT A moment between Magda and Josh Rayner. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy

DOWN THE AISLE

“This is where my passion lies. We really work hard to create a wonderful experience from start to finish for our couples and their guests. It's breathtaking here on the river, and you get that quintessential New England feeling," shares Tiffany Zwart, membership and special events manager at the Connecticut River Museum. Zwart brings 28 years of experience in the wedding industry to the museum. She has been with the Connecticut River Museum for nearly a year.

The museum’s dramatic river views make it an ideal location for spring, summer, or fall weddings. While the boathouse accommodates up to 30 guests and offers a charming indoor option, most larger events are hosted under elegant tents. Zwart collaborates with a selection of approved caterers and trusted wedding vendors, both local and any favorites the couple may prefer. Additionally, Zwart notes that the museum is open to al lowing food trucks on the property.

For a local touch, Magda and Josh had Joy Chocolate Company, based in Essex Village, put together boxes of chocolates as favors. Magda worked with owner and chocolatier Claire Ariyan, who created a custom bass to add to the chocolate mix. Magda says she never fished until she met Josh and caught her first striped bass in Essex at the Connecticut River Museum. The chocolate favors incorporated the couple's love of fishing and Josh's business, CT Fish Nerd, into their special day.

"It's fun for us to do something unique," says Ariyan. "The fish that Magda and Josh wanted is the most unique ask we've received. We've also done chocolate golden frogs and lobsters hand painted in a shiny red edible coloring for others.”

Thoughtful details such as local chocolates are plentiful in Essex. For example, for guests seeking an outfit or accessories for wedding-related events,

TOP Magda worked with Joy Chocolate Company to create a custom bass to add to the chocolate favors mix. The chocolate favors incorporated the couple’s love of fishing and Josh’s business, CT Fish Nerd. Photo by magda rayner
ABOVE The Rayners at the Essex Coffee & Tea shop, the site of their first date. Photo by
Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy
LEFT Essex offers a wealth of local charm and personalized touches that make any wedding or celebration special. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy

DUDLEY FARM

Imagine your wedding set on a picturesque 19th century farm

- Rent our 1890’s barn set on 10 acres

- Seating capacity for 85 guests

- Hourly rates available for smaller events

- Perfect for showers, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, reunions and meetings

Contact Janet, Rental Coordinator, at 203/457-9768 or rentals@dudleyfarm.com

Check our website for more details: dudleyfarm.com

Dudley Farm Museum 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford, CT 06437

DOWN THE AISLE

The RiverLane, a boutique clothing store, is a popular destination on Main Street for women of all ages. There, every day is a cause for celebration, says RiverLane owner Robin Zubretsky.

"There's something for every occasion and everyone," says Zubretsky. "We offer a variety of styles, whether for the rehearsal dinner, the day after brunch, or casual and formal attire for the honeymoon."

Essex offers a wealth of local charm and personalized touches that make any wedding or celebration special. Whether an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Essex’s local businesses and scenic settings provide the per fect backdrop for creating memories with fam ily and friends.

BELOW LEFT The

BELOW RIGHT The Family Cottage at the Gris, where the Rayners stayed the night before and after the wedding. This is the same

The Griswold Inn is located at 36 Main Street in Essex. To learn more, call 860-767-1776 or visit griswoldinn.com.

Joy Chocolate Co. is located at 5 North Main Street. Call 860-662-4489 or visit joychocolateco.com for more information.

The RiverLane is located at 7 Main Street in Essex. Hours are Monday—Saturday, 10 a.m.— 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.— 4 p.m. To learn more, call 860-662-4688 or visit theriverlane.com.

LEFT The Rayners at The Griswold Inn, where they held an intimate dinner celebration. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy
Rayners’ ceremony at the Essex Green. Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy
cottage that Josh’s late grandfather, Gerard Borgwardt, did carpentry work on.
Photo by Jazmyn alvarez PhotograPhy

DOWN THE AISLE

honeymoon shoreline on the

Romantic local getaways for a stress-free honeymoon

Planning and hosting a wedding can certainly be stressful. A honeymoon should not only be a time to celebrate a new marriage but also to kick back and relax after so much time planning.

While many think of island destinations, several destinations along the Connecticut shoreline are great alternatives to lengthy travel, highprice flights, and crowded resorts. The area offers beautiful accommodations, a long list of things

to do, amazing restaurants, and places to explore. As a bonus, a beloved destination can be revisited anytime!

The state and local beaches up and down the Connecticut coast have plenty of opportunities to enjoy watersport activities and waterfront dining. The towns along the Connecticut shoreline are also known for having thriving downtowns with unique shops and New England charm. Mystic, Essex, Niantic, Guilford, and Branford are well-known for their downtown areas.

SAYBROOK POINT RESORT & MARINA

2 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook; 860-395-2000; saybrook.com

ON-SITE AMENITIES

Guests can choose from elegantly appointed guest rooms, unique suites, or private accommodations with butler service. The resort features a full-service spa offering couples’ massages, wellness treatments, and curated wellness packages, as well as a health club, year-round indoor and outdoor pools with a sauna and hot tub, and sunset cruises. Luxurious touches include room service, plush robes, and fireplaces in many rooms. Guests can enjoy live music at The Choo Choo Lounge and dine at Fresh Salt, the resort’s awardwinning restaurant, known for its exquisite seato-table cuisine.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Harvey’s Beach, Downtown Old Saybrook, Islander Sport Fishing Charter, Old Saybrook Mini Golf, The Loop, a scenic waterfront walk along Route 154 and North Cove Road, The Kate, and watersports.

WHY STAY HERE?

“Nestled along the picturesque Connecticut shoreline, Saybrook Point Resort & Marina offers the perfect blend of romance, luxury, and tranquility, making it an ideal honeymoon destination,” says the resort’s marketing director, Candace Engdall. “The resort’s breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound create a serene and romantic setting for newlyweds. Whether watching the sunrise from a private balcony or strolling hand-in-hand along the marina, the natural beauty of the surroundings ensures unforgettable moments.”

“The resort specializes in creating bespoke experiences for honeymooners, such as private sunset cruises, gourmet picnics by the shore, or wine and chocolate pairings,” adds Engdall. “At Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, every detail is designed to create a dreamy and stress-free honeymoon. With its unmatched blend of natural beauty, luxury amenities, and personalized service, it’s the perfect place to begin your happily ever after.”

LEFT S aybrook Point Marina. Photo courtesy of saybrooK Point resort & marina
ABOVE Deluxe room at Saybrook Point Resort. Photo courtesy of saybrooK Point resort & marina

THE INN AT HARBOR HILL MARINA

60 Grand Street, Niantic; 860-739-0331; innharborhill.com

ON-SITE AMENITIES

Breakfast, wine and cheese reception, cookies baked fresh each evening, seasonal pontoon cruise rides, seasonal live music, and seasonal beach passes.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Walking distance to downtown Niantic with a 1.1-mile boardwalk overlooking Long Island Sound, local beaches, shopping & restaurants, Mystic, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino, and scenic areas with hiking trails and waterfalls.

WHY STAY HERE?

“Our location is the perfect location to celebrate a small, intimate honeymoon celebration,” says Leigha Johnson, The Inn’s office manager. “The cozy, well-appointed Clark House suites with deep soaking tubs and seasonal gas fireplaces create a really romantic atmosphere.  Additionally, we offer the unique experience of reserving our pontoon boat with our Captain Nick privately for the couple to enjoy the views from the river.  The cruise lasts one hour and offers the option for a romantic lunch basket or a sunset cruise with gourmet snacks and wine or champagne.”

“We offer our ‘Perfect Together’ package for $225,” adds Johnson. “The package includes monogrammed plush robes for the couple, a split champagne, Lindor truffles, a bouquet of flowers, two morning mimosas served during breakfast, and a late extended checkout of 1 p.m.”

ABOVE The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina in Niantic. Photo courtesy of the inn at harbor hill marina BELOW Champagne is included in The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina’s Perfect Together package. Photo courtesy of the inn at harbor hill marina

DAY TRIPS

SEA MIST CRUISE

Spend time on the water and enjoy a narrated cruise touring Branford’s Thimble Islands.

4 Indian Point Road, Branford; thimbleislandcruise.com

BISHOP’S FARM MARKET & WINERY

Pick your own seasonal fruit or enjoy local wines, fresh produce, ice cream, and events at the Little Red Barn. 1355 Boston Post Road, Guilford; bishopsorchards.com

ESSEX STEAM TRAIN & RIVERBOAT

Ride the railroad, relax aboard the riverboat, and visit the unique facilities.

1 Railroad Avenue, Essex; essexsteamtrain.com

THE KATE

Check out the calendar for shows at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, or enjoy the museum.

300 Main Street, Old Saybrook; thekate.org

FLORENCE GRISWOLD MUSEUM

Situated along the Lieutenant River, the Florence Griswold Museum embodies the artistic spirit of its legacy as the home of the Lyme Art Colony.

96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme; florencegriswoldmuseum.org

MYSTIC AQUARIUM

Visit the fish, sharks, whales, and other sea life, along with museum exhibits and shows.

55 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic; mysticaquarium.org

MYSTIC SEAPORT

The 19-acre maritime museum is a recreated New England coastal village with a working shipyard, formal exhibit halls, and state-of-the-art artifact storage facilities with more than 500 historic watercraft.

75 Greenmanville Avenue, Mystic; mysticseaport.org

WATER’S EDGE RESORT & SPA

1525 Boston Post Road, Westbrook; 860-399-5901; watersedgeresortandspa.com

ON-SITE AMENITIES

Multiple dining options, entertainment, private beach, indoor & outdoor saltwater pools with exclusive access for resort guests, a fully equipped fitness center, seasonal tennis courts, and a full-service spa offering a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and manicures.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet, Chamard Vineyards, Coastline Brewing Company, Gillette Castle State Park, Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, and Mohegan Sun Casino.

WHY STAY HERE?

“Water’s Edge Resort & Spa offers a truly idyllic setting for a local honeymoon destination,” says Florent Fougerouse, the resort’s director of sales & marketing. “Located along the scenic shores of Long Island Sound, our resort sets the perfect scene for romantic out-

ings and relaxation. Whether you are lounging on our private beach, enjoying a couple’s massage at The Spa, or dining candlelit overlooking the water, your honeymoon will be everything you have dreamed of and more.”

“Water’s Edge Resort & Spa offers multiple on-site dining options, where you can indulge in everything from fine dining to comforting bar favorites, all

while enjoying live music every Friday and Saturday at Seaview Bistro,” adds Fougerouse. “In addition to our guest amenities, the resort hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including trivia nights, comedy shows, tribute band performances, and an ample Sunday brunch buffet, ensuring your stay is filled with entertainment and memorable experiences.”

Water’s Edge Spa. Photo courtesy of Water’s edge resort & sPa
A Water’s Edge “Villa by the Sea” balcony with a view of Long Island Sound. Photo courtesy of Water’s edge resort & sPa

Broker Associate CT and Licensed in

o. 860.767.5011 | c. 617.645.4392 smalan@wpsir.com susanmalan.williampitt.com susanmalanrealtor Essex Brokerage: 13

ALiving the dream through education and service

The 2024 class of scholarship recipients are inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy while building their own

profoundly influential figure in Civil Rights and American history, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. dedicated his life—in fact, gave his life—to evangelizing equality, peace, justice, love, service, and education. His legacy endures, inspiring new generations all over the world.

In the wake of Dr. King’s assassination in 1968, two local New London residents, William Waller and his wife, Eunice, created a scholarship, The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Trust Fund—then, just $100—was bestowed to a high school student who personified Dr. King’s principles.

Since the inaugural year, more than 250 scholarships have been awarded to students to help them pursue their collegiate aspirations. With funding from area organizations, the value of those scholarships has grown to $25,000 for each award.

The selection process is rigorous. Applicants submit academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and an essay. They then sit for an interview with board members. The scholars are chosen based on academic achievement, financial need, dedication to community service, and “interest in advancing the legacy and philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” Past recipients have gone on to become accomplished doctors and surgeons, lawyers, pastors, public service professionals, actors, musicians, business executives, and educators.

In 2024, the fund’s 56th year, 12 scholars were chosen for the distinction. Birse Timmons, president of the scholarship fund’s Board of Trustees, hosted an award ceremony on October 22, 2024, at Foxwoods Resort Casino. On the Shoreline spoke with several of the recipients about their futures.

“I’ve always been an overachiever. I like being that,”

Mahi Patel says.

Patel is a senior honor student at Robert E. Fitch High School and a member of the school’s Black Student Union. She volunteers at the Groton Public Library and is an active member of More Than Words, where students from Groton, New London, and Ledyard promote respect for diversity. She can often be found taking photos of beautiful things: sunrises and sunsets, places she’s traveled to, things she discovers in nature, her family, and especially her beloved grandmother.

She learned about the scholarship opportunity from past Fitch scholars and Carmita Hodge, Fitch’s assistant principal, and advisor to the Black Student Union. “She really believed in me,” Patel says.

Patel’s application essay focused on the war in Afghanistan, how it particularly impacts women and children, and what Dr. King may have said about war.

Since elementary school, Patel has aspired to be a doctor. She’s fascinated with cellular biology and plans to study der-

matology at the University of Connecticut, Brown University, or Northeastern University.

“I just love helping people—today, that’s through community service and the clubs I’m involved in. I am dedicated to helping people in need,” she says. In her role with the Black Student Union, fellow students of color often talk to her about their concerns about equity, racism, and tolerance. She leverages her position to bring those issues to school administrators.

“I want those students to be heard and to trust me. I want to be the type of person anyone can come to, knowing that I will help. I want that to be my legacy,” she says.

“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.”
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Cashel Jones, from New London Multi-Magnet High School, was encouraged to apply for the scholarship by her principal.

“I’m really into environmental science and conservation, so I wrote my essay about something I’ve done a lot of research on—shark finning. I connected the dots to social justice because shark finning is contributing to the decrease in the shark population, which feeds many communities around the world. Without them, entire ecosystems collapse,” she explains. According to Jones, the disruption to the food chain particularly impacts marginalized communities in impoverished nations.

Jones has citizenship in the United States, Colombia, and Jamaica. She would like to further her education in environmental sciences to help ecosystems, animal populations, and people worldwide. In her free time, she volunteers at a local nature center, and in the summers, she works as a lifeguard at

strives to be someone others confide in when they need help and compassion.

BELOW C ashel Jones may be preparing to graduate from New London High School Multi-Magnet Campus, but she is already a student of the world. Jones, a multinational citizen of the United States, Jamaica, and Colombia, plans to study environmental science and conservation. Beyond her studies, she would like a career that takes her to communities worldwide that need help with environmental health and sustainability. Photo courtesy of cashel Jones

ABOVE Mahi Patel will graduate from Robert E. Fitch High School this spring. She plans to become a doctor specializing in dermatology. Patel said she feels particularly happy and confident when she wears traditional Indian clothing, such as chaniya choli and sarees. She
Photo courtesy of mahi Patel

Emmanuella

Prempeh is a senior at Norwich Free Academy. She is an athlete and National Honor Society scholar who aspires to become a criminal defense attorney. She is particularly interested in criminal justice reform and would like to represent people who have been wrongfully convicted or unfairly harshly sentenced for minor crimes. Photo courtesy of ella

BE LOW After graduating this spring from The Williams School, Arnell Peck will enroll at the University of Richmond, where he plans to study business administration. He hopes to further his education by attaining MBA and J.D. degrees. Peck would like to specialize in sports law and return to his hometown, New London, to give back to the community where he was raised.

Ocean Beach. She is taking a course to become an emergency medical technician (EMT) and enjoys making ceramic art.

When Jones was chosen to receive the scholarship, she cried, realizing that her aspirations meant something not only to her but to others as well.

Emmanuella “Ella” Prempeh is a senior at Norwich Free Academy (NFA). She is a member of the National Honor Society, the French club, and the track-and-field and basketball teams. She serves as class vice president and chairs NFA’s education and workforce development program. Prempeh is also a passionate poet and self-taught artist.

She says her professional goal is to become a criminal defense attorney. She hopes to study at the University of Connecticut, Southern Connecticut State University, or Syracuse University, then go on to an accelerated master’s program and law school.

“Last year, in my sociology class, we had a unit that focused on the disproportionate amount of people of color in jail compared to white people. We looked at different methods that police and prosecutors use to incarcerate them,” Prempeh says. “Then, they struggle to get out and find jobs when they do. It’s a vicious cycle. I want to help people who have been wrongfully convicted or people who are in jail who shouldn’t have been given long sentences for minor crimes,” she says.

Prempeh wrote her application essay on the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement and how BLM protests—which began in earnest—sometimes devolved into violent events.

“There is no justice if you fight with vengeance in your heart,” she says. “I wrote about the Black Lives Matter protests in relation to MLK’s messages about unity and peacefulness.”

“His activism is the reason I’m able to do what I do. I feel like his message was so impactful to me, not just because he spoke out at a time when he was told not to, and all the heat against him, or the fact that he wanted—after all the hate and all the racism—he still wanted us, no matter our race to be together,” she says. “That really stuck with me. Having the honor to share the award with so many other students who are not just Black but come from Muslim and Indian families and other backgrounds is like living out exactly what he wanted for us. It’s really great to experience that.”

Arnell Peck is a senior at The Williams School. He recalls growing up and attending the scholarship fund’s annual galas with his father and hearing the speakers and scholars speak about Dr. King’s legacy.

“I grew up seeing those role models up on the stage, but I never really believed that I could be up there one day,” Peck says.

ABOVE
“Ella”
PremPeh
Photo courtesy of arnell PecK
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’ ”

“But my dad was always there at my side saying, ‘That’s going to be you up on the stage one day.’”

Peck plans to attend the University of Richmond, where he will study business administration. He’s already thinking ahead to post-graduate work. He’d like to earn an MBA and a law degree and embark on a career in sports law. He enjoys playing sports, particularly basketball and lacrosse, writing poetry, and photography.

“I would love to carry on Martin Luther King’s name. Not just as a scholar, but as a person and advocate for what his values were,” he says. “My main goal is to give back to the community that raised me. I live in New London and loved growing up here.” He acknowledges all aspects of the city, from its pride and community to its challenges.

“I’m just reflecting on where I came from and making the place that raised me a better place,” Peck says.

Peck began his application essay by recounting the death of Tyre Nichols, who died from injuries sustained while in the custody of five Memphis police officers—the same city where Dr. King was assassinated, Peck observed. He pondered the cultural phenomena that contribute to violence, urging Black Americans to defy stereotypes and to protest peacefully.

“Most importantly, we ought to have gratitude for our ancestors, who fought for our rights, and use those rights to further advance our people through legislation and peaceful protest against oppressive ideas and figures,” Peck wrote. “Change isn’t easy, neither is it immediate, yet there is hope,” he concluded.

The 2024 class of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholars

Back row, left to right:

Aiyanna Mitchell, New London Multi-Magnet High School

Tatiana Pemberton, New London Multi-Magnet High School

Nakayla Isaac, New London Multi-Magnet High School

Layan Faraj, Marine Science Magnet High School

Cashel Jones, New London Multi-Magnet High School

Mahi Patel, Robert E. Fitch High School

Emmanuella Prempeh, Norwich Free Academy

Front row, left to right:

Cole Baumgartner, Waterford High School

Oliver Aubin, Norwich Free Academy

Raidy Cabrera Jr., Marine Science Magnet High School

Arnell Peck, The Williams School

Shem Adams, St. Bernard School

Kenneth Nogacek, DMD Melissa Nogocek, DMD Jason Campbell, DDS Ross D. Sanfilippo, DMD

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On the Shoreline February 2025 by dayshorepublishing - Issuu