Every few years, technology takes a significant leap forward. The Doctors of Audiology and Hearing Aid Specialists at County Hearing and Balance use this new technology to help improve your hearing in ways never even imagined just a few years ago. Sound is crisp, clear, and more natural, providing a truly advanced listening experience.
Trust your hearing to the professionals at County Hearing and Balance. We are the area’s oldest, locally owned, full service Audiology Center. We provide a professional and thorough assessment of your hearing ability and provide several options if improvement is needed. If hearing aids are necessary, we work with several of the largest manufacturers to ensure that you are getting the right instrument for your hearing loss, at the right price. Plus we participate or process most insurance and discount plans, including Medicare, Medicare supplements, Anthem, United Health, Tricare, Aetna, Connecticare and AARP.
The brewing tanks at Tox Brewing Company on Bank Street in New London. Photo Courtesy of tox Brewing ComPany
FROM THE EDITOR ALICIA GOMEZ
Hi everyone, June on the shoreline brings the perfect mix of sunshine, community, and celebration. We’re embracing it all this month, from Pride Month to summer treats and outdoor adventures.
In this issue, we look at what Pride looks like in our small towns. These celebrations may be smaller in scale, but they’re full of heart and serve as a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to feel seen and supported, right here at home.
Summer is also a great time to get outside and get moving. If you’ve ever spotted a group of kids biking in matching jerseys, you might have seen the work of CCAP. This incredible program gives kids across the state the chance to ride and race, no matter what their experience level. It’s a great way to build confidence, community, and a lifelong love of cycling.
And of course, no summer issue would be complete without ice cream! We’ve rounded up some of the shoreline’s best spots to help you cool down after a long ride, beach day, or stroll downtown.
Finally, we’re sharing an update from Tox Brewing Co., which has moved into a bigger space in downtown New London. It’s an exciting step forward for a local favorite, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for them.
As always, I’d love to hear about your favorite local summer traditions. Let us know on the On the Shoreline Facebook page (@ontheshoreline)!
Happy Summer!
Sincerely,
Alicia Gomez
P.S. Tox Brewing’s beloved frog mascot is hiding throughout this issue! Count how many times you spot the image of Toxy and message your guess to our Facebook page (@ontheshoreline). You’ll be entered to win one of five exclusive prizes from Tox Brewing Company. Good luck—and happy hunting!
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on the cover A green-and-black poison dart frog housed at Tox Brewing Company. Despite its name, this particular species has coloring that varies from green to yellow to blue. Photo by EllE Rahilly
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 closeup 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.
June–July
Hole in the Wall Beach, Niantic. photo by thomas Wieczorek
Rocky Neck State Park, Waterford.
photo by mary ostfeld
Ruby-throated hummingbird, Salem.
photo by susan Waltke
Madison Beach Hotel, Madison.
photo by Jackie nash legnos
Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford.
photo by henry granger
State Pier, New London. photo by Jack knox
Block Island, Rhode Island.
photo by shelley collin
Avery Point, Groton.
photo by shelley collin
Ferry Landing State Park, Old Lyme. photo by k athy gorman
Lavender Pond Farm, Killingworth. photo by Janet alloWay
Niantic River, Waterford.
photo by patricia sammataro
North Stonington.
photo by diane crider
Niantic River, Waterford. photo by patricia sammataro
Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford. photo by daWn heather l afleche
Active birdhouses, Waterford.
photo by eileen olynciW
STILL MATTERS PRIDE
Visibility, connection, and courage along the shoreline
By Jenn McCulloch Photos courtesy of ALEX, Inc.
In shoreline towns known for farmers markets, scenic harbors, and historic town greens, something vibrant has been steadily taking root: Pride. Not the corporate kind seen in big cities with floats and sponsorships, but a personal, community-grown movement driven by visibility, compassion, and courage.
“Being out and proud in a small town means choosing authenticity, even when it’s not always easy—it’s about standing in your truth and showing others that they can, too,” says Sarah Celotto, founder of ALEX, Inc., a grassroots organization based in Guilford. “In smaller communities, visibility can have an even greater impact because it challenges assumptions and starts conversations that might not happen otherwise. It’s also about creating space so others who feel alone or unseen know they have a place and people who support them. There’s a special kind of courage in being out and proud in a small town, and that courage helps change hearts, minds, and the community itself.”
Founded in 2023 after Celotto’s youngest child came out as transgender, ALEX, Inc. began by sponsoring
Guilford’s first-ever Pride event. Since then, it has blossomed into a hub for LGBTQ+ support and education, offering everything from queer proms to a podcast called Prideful Connections. Most recently, the organization launched the Trans Care Assistance Program (TCAP), a groundbreaking effort to raise funds so transgender individuals can access the resources needed to live as their authentic selves.
“It opened my eyes to how much I had to learn—not only about what being transgender truly means, but also about how I could best support my child,” says Celotto. “I began educating myself, connecting with others in the LGBTQ community, and reflecting deeply on how to be the ally my child needed. Along the way, I also came to understand how many everyday things I took for granted were hurdles that LGBTQ individuals often have to fight for.”
“In today’s climate, where LGBTQ rights are being challenged in so many places, being seen and heard is a form of resistance and empowerment,” adds Celotto. “Visibility helps break down stereotypes, fosters understanding, and reminds people, especially young LGBTQ
individuals, that they are not alone. It also holds space for conversations that lead to change. When we show up proudly and authentically, we help build a world where acceptance and equality aren’t just ideals, but realities.”
That sense of visibility is especially powerful in small towns. In places like East Haven, Madison, and New London, being LGBTQ+ can still feel isolating, especially for youth and older adults. That’s why Pride in shoreline communities carries such emotional weight. It’s not just a celebration. It’s a statement: you are not alone here
Cindy Sparago, co-founder and president of East Haven Pride, knows this firsthand. Along with Karen Martin, she launched the group in May 2024 to create more inclusive events and spaces for LGBTQ+ residents in town. As a parent of an LGBTQ+ young adult, Sparago initially focused on youth, but she and Martin soon saw a greater need.
“We have come to learn that there are many adults who are looking for inclusive activities, especially events that do not revolve around bars or restaurants,” says Sparago. “We are hopeful that East Haven Pride can create spaces for those in the community who may feel lonely or isolat-
ed. The response to the presence of East Haven Pride in the community has been remarkable! We’ve had both parents and students approach us, exclaiming that it’s about time and how happy they are to have us in town. I want to do everything I can to make East Haven more accepting and welcoming for all.”
Partnering with East Haven’s Hagaman Memorial Library, which received
a grant to provide LGBTQIA+ programming, East Haven Pride has hosted book clubs, movie screenings, and coffee/chat groups. It has also held get-togethers such as rock painting with Kindness Rocks of East Haven, paint nights, and open mics.
The group has marched in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and participated in community events like the East Haven Fall Festival. Most recently, it hosted a
“In today’s climate, where LGBTQ rights are being challenged in so many places, being seen and heard is a form of resistance and empowerment.”
Sarah Celotto
sold-out trolley ride and wine tasting fundraiser and participated in the Guilford Pride March on May 17. The group will have a booth at North Haven Pride’s event on June 14.
“The community response has been fantastic—East Haven Memorial Funeral Home sponsored the event, and the Shoreline Trolley Museum and Rosso Vino restaurant donated,” says Sparago. “We plan to use all the funds raised to continue our programming for youth and adults.”
These local Pride efforts do more than mark a moment—they offer emotional lifelines for LGBTQ+ people who have long felt “othered,” providing affirmation, connection, and joy.
“Local Pride events and groups like ours help LGBTQ+ individuals feel seen, supported, and less alone; they create a sense of belonging, offer community, and remind people that they are valued just as they are,” says Ce-
lotto. “These events and groups bring people together by creating safe, welcoming spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals and allies can connect, celebrate, and support one another. They meet emotional needs like belonging and acceptance, and social needs like community and shared understanding.”
Celotto has seen the impact of these gatherings firsthand. She remembers the first Guilford Pride event where she witnessed the love, acceptance, and desire of community allies to learn about the LGBTQ+ community.
“Generation Z seems to be much more accepting—they don’t focus on how you identify or who you’re attracted to; they just want their friends to be happy, no matter what that looks like for them, but I’ve also been incredibly impressed with the older generation I’ve seen at presentations about transgender individuals because they have a genuine desire to learn
and understand something that was rarely discussed or even heard about in their time,” says Celotto. “I’ll never forget seeing them at our first Guilford Pride event and hearing them express how they wished events like these had been around when they were young.”
As Pride events continue to pop up across shoreline towns, the message is clear: LGBTQ+ people are part of the fabric of these communities and groups like ALEX, Inc. and East Haven Pride are continuing to provide support and
UPCOMING EVENTS
MONTHLY EAST HAVEN PRIDE MEETINGS
Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Hagaman Library, 227 Main Street, East Haven. All are welcome. Visit East Haven Pride on Facebook or @easthavenpride on Instagram for more information.
NORTH HAVEN PRIDE 2025 –SATURDAY, JUNE 14
Visit northhavenpride.org for more information.
QUEER PROM (GUILFORD)
Coming in December, sponsored by ALEX, Inc.
RAINBOW SUPPORT GROUP
The Rainbow Support Group provides support and affirmation to individuals with intellectual and other disabilities who identify as LGBTQ+. This group also welcomes autistic and neurodiverse LGBTQ+ individuals. The group meets the second Sunday of each month unless specified otherwise from 1-2:30 p.m. at the New Haven Pride Center, 84 Orange Street. To join, email Bennie at bsaldana@newhavenpridecenter.org or rainbowdisability@gmail.com For more information, visit google.com/site/rainbowdisability or newhavenpridecenter.org.
resources as they help people of all ages step into the light.
“While we still encounter negativity from a few people who hide behind their keyboards to spread hate and ignorance on social media, they usually stay away when these events happen, and what we see instead is an outpouring of love, acceptance, laughter, and smiles,” says Celotto. “Groups like ours are vital to the community because they create spaces of understanding, support, and visibility for LGBTQ individuals and their families.”
“When my own child came out as transgender, I realized how isolating and confusing that journey can be—especially without access to education, resources, or a supportive network,” adds Celotto. “Organizations like ALEX, Inc. help fill that gap. We offer events, programs, and initiatives that not only celebrate queer identities but also provide practical support. Ultimately, we help foster a more informed, compassionate, and inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
scoop THE FULL
A guide to ice cream shops along the shoreline that are worth melting over
By Elle Rahilly
Nothing says summer like a good scoop of ice cream. From old-school soda fountains and candy shops to farm-based creameries and inventive micro-batch makers, Connecticut’s shoreline has no shortage of places to cool off with something sweet. Whether you’re hitting the road or just trying to beat the heat, these spots are worth the trip. Visit them online for the latest hours and flavor offerings.
ASHLE Y’S ICE CREAM
280 York Street, New Haven | 2100 Dixwell Avenue #15, Hamden 1016 Main Street, Branford | 724 Boston Post Road, Madison 942 Boston Post Road, Guilford | ashleysicecream.net @ashleysicecream | @ashleysicecreamcafe
Open year-round; 12–10 p.m. daily. Some locations may have seasonal hours
Ashley’s Ice Cream has acquired a cult following since it opened in 1979 with its ultra-rich flavors and whimsical touches—think chocolate-dipped waffle cones rolled in crushed candy bars, bittersweet hot fudge, and freshly whipped cream made in-house daily. Named after the famed frisbee dog Ashley Whippet, what began in New Haven has since grown to five locations sprinkled along the shoreline. Craving a classic? Go for the namesake’s favorite: chocolate banana.
MICHAEL’S DAIRY
629 Montauk Ave, New London 860-443-2464 | michaelsdairynl.com
IACOASTAL CLASSIC ICE CREAM
910 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook | 860-876-6249
@coastalclassicicecream | @coastalclassicicecream
Open March–October; Monday–Wednesday, 3–8 p.m., Thursday–Sunday, 12–8 p.m.
HONE YCONE CRAFT ICE CREAM
29 Main Street, Chester | 860-322-3132 | honeyconecreamco.com
true hometown favorite, Michael’s Dairy has served generations of New London locals with creamy, small-batch ice cream since the 1950s. With more than 35 rotating flavors, there’s always something new to try. Favorites include coconut almond bar (loaded with toasted coconut and chocolate flakes) and “Graham Central Station,” a graham cracker swirl with cinnamon-spiced richness. Originally part of a working dairy farm, it now operates under Mitchell College, with proceeds supporting student programs. The menu balances retro charm and playful invention, making it a welcoming spot for all ages with a sprawling lawn adorned with a gazebo (and a restored barn for added charm).
n the heart of Chester, Honeycone operates like a micro-creamery with a chef’s palate. Each batch begins with locally sourced dairy and is infused with flavors rooted in the culinary training of the mother-daughter owners. The result is a rotating menu of bold, often surprising pairings: fresh mint with black sesame, roasted cornflake crunch, or burnt honey and thyme. Their ice cream leans toward the less-sweet side, allowing savory, herbal, and textural notes to shine. Presented in a minimalist space where the focus is purely on the product, every spoonful feels like a tasting menu in a cone.
@MelsDowntownCreamery | @melsdowntowncreamery Open year-round; 12–9 p.m. daily;
MSWEET LUNA’S FROZEN DESSERTS & BUBBLE TEA
139 Main Street, Old Saybrook | 860-391-8194 | sweetlunas.com @SweetLunas | @sweetlunas
Open year-round; Sunday–Thursday, 12–9 p.m., Friday–Saturday, 12–9:30 p.m.
odern dessert lovers, meet your new favorite stop. Just off Main Street in Old Saybrook, Sweet Luna’s is known for its creative frozen treats and expertly brewed bubble teas. Rich, creamy scoops sit alongside tart frozen yogurts and inventive dairy-free options made with coconut or almond milk. Flavors rotate seasonally—matcha green tea, mango sorbet, toasted coconut, and black sesame are regular favorites. Their bubble teas, brewed fresh (never powdered), range from Thai tea to seasonal fruit infusions. Perfect for a post-beach cool-down or spontaneous sugar fix.
Open March–October; Monday–Friday, 1–8 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, 12–8 p.m.
amily-owned since 1975, Buttonwood Farm in Griswold began as a dairy and lumber operation and has since evolved into a popular summertime destination. Each batch of ice cream is churned on-site using the farm’s own high-butterfat milk. Waffle cones are made fresh daily. Featured flavors include matcha white chocolate and cherry vanilla chip (with Bordeaux cherry halves). The fan-favorite sunflower flavor gets its golden hue from real sunflower petals and is only available during the annual sunflower festival, which benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The scenic backdrop of sunflower fields and stone walls adds a dreamy pastoral vibe, especially when the sunflowers are at full bloom. With a focus on sustainability and animal welfare, Buttonwood feeds its herds with high-quality forage and powers the entire farm with solar energy. For those who believe ice cream tastes better with a view (and a cause), Buttonwood offers both, in delicious style.
@TwistersIceCream | @twisters_icecream
Open May–October; Monday–Friday, 12–8 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, 12–9 p.m.
Avisit to Gumdrops & Lollipops in Niantic is like stepping into a candy-colored slice of nostalgia. Housed in a cheery yellow building just steps from the beach, this 1950s-style soda fountain serves up over 30 flavors of homemade hard ice cream— from “Coconut Joy” to “Giants Neck Raspberry Shipwreck.” The shop also offers a dreamy selection of vintage candies, handdipped chocolates, and creamy fudge. Whether you’re craving a banana split or just a scoop to stroll the boardwalk with, this sweet spot is a must-visit. Looking for an energy boost? Try the “Jitterbug”—a frozen blend of iced coffee and homemade ice cream, topped with whipped cream.
Fenwickicecreamco.wixsite.com/fenwick-ice-cream-co @fenwickicecreamco | @fenwickicecreamco Open April–November; 12–9 p.m. daily
Housed in a restored 19th-century building near the storied Fenwick borough, once home to Katharine Hepburn, Fenwick Ice Cream Co. blends coastal-inspired flavors with inventive twists. The seaside creamery churns out small-batch ice cream with locally sourced dairy and hand-mixed inclusions. Signature flavors like “Beach Plum Crumble” and “Fenwick Fog” (a nod to Earl Grey and sea salt) are a creamy taste of shoreline summer with a gourmet twist.
SCOTTIES FROZEN CUSTARD
327 New London Road, Colchester | 860-537-1265 scottiesfrozencustard.com @scottiesfrozencustard Open April–October; 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m. daily
MILLIE’S ICE CREAM STAND
650 New London Turnpike, Norwich | 860-889-5770
@Millies-Ice-Cream-Stand-Malerbas-Golf-Driving-Range @milliesicecreamstand Open April–fall; 12–7:30 p.m. daily
BORO BODEGA & SCOOPERY
109 Water Street, Stonington | 860-980-8206 | borobodega.com @borobodegascoopery | @borobodegascoopery Open April–December; 12–9 p.m. daily
ME YER’S CRAZ Y HOLLOW CREAMERY
888 CT-32, North Franklin | 860-642-8075 meyers-crazy-hollow-creamery.square.site @meyerscrazyhollowcreamery @meyerscrazyhollowcreamery Open March–October; 12—8 p.m. daily
Shoreline Ice Cream Trail
TON Y D’S CRAFT CREAMERY
440 Main Street, Niantic | 860-739-8687
OHK DAIRY BARN
986 Killingworth Road, Higganum | 860-554-5048
@tonydscraftcreamery | @the_craftcreamery
Open late March–late October; Monday–Friday, 3–9:30 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, 12–9:30 p.m.
pened as a sweet and savory offshoot, Tony D’s Craft Creamery translates the soul of its namesake New London Italian restaurant into decadent frozen form. Its ice cream is built on a rich 16% milk fat base and boasts flavor combinations that recall comfort food and clever culinary play. Try “Why You Salty?”—a salted caramel base with pretzel brittle—or “Blueberry Pancake,” which tastes like brunch in a cone with blueberry compote and maple swirls. A balance of cozy nostalgia and gourmet flair defines the menu.
@hkdairybarn | @hkdairybarn
Open April–September; Monday–Friday, 2–8:30 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, 1–8:30 p.m.
Extended hours mid-June through August; 1–9 p.m. daily
SWEET P’S
Griswold Square, 51 Main Street, Essex | 860-767-7805
Open year-round with seasonal hours; 11 a.m.–11 p.m. daily
ith a view of Mystic’s iconic Bascule Bridge and a heritage stretching back to the 1800s, this historic shop is as much a landmark as it is a dessert destination. Mystic Drawbridge crafts ice cream the old-fashioned way—low overrun for dense texture, fresh fruits cooked in-house, and a base of hormone-free, locally pasteurized cream. Their “Sweet & Salty Shoyu,” made in collaboration with Moromi Shoyu, is a revelation of umami and caramel notes. Other unique offerings include “Lemon Chocolate Kiss” (a pairing of lemon custard and dark chocolate) and Coquito—inspired by a traditional Puerto Rican drink that combines coconut cream, cinnamon, and rum. Each scoop is mixed and folded by hand, with recipes passed down through generations.
T@deepriverice | @deepriverice
Open April–September; Tuesday–Sunday, 1–9 p.m.; Closed Mondays (fall hours subject to change)
ROSE ORCHARDS CREAMERY
33 Branford Road, North Branford | 203-488-7996
roseorchardsfarm.com/creamery
@roseorchardsfarm | @roseorchardsfarm Open year-round; 7 a.m.–6 p.m. daily
his seventh-generation family farm has been churning out charm since 1655, but their ultra-creamy, small-batch ice cream has been stealing hearts (and spoons) more recently. Rose Orchards Creamery in North Branford serves rich, house-made scoops like peach, the ever-classic “Cow Tracks,” and seasonal favorites using fresh milk and local ingredients. Grab your cone and stroll past blooming orchards, say hello to the goats and alpacas, or settle into a picnic bench for a proper scoop session.
SEVEN BIRDS ICE CREAM
27 Coogan Boulevard, 7B, Mystic | 860-245-0811
sevenbirdsicecream.com
@sevenbirdsicecream | @sevenbirdsicecream
Open March–late September weather permitting; Monday–Thursday, 12–8 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, 12–9 p.m., Sunday, 1–8 p.m.
Old-fashioned root beer float. Bubbly root beer, homemade vanilla ice cream, fluffy whipped cream, and a cherry. Photo
Courtesy of mystiC drawBridge
Fenwick Ice Cream Co. owner Rich Fenwick serving a customer. Photo Courtesy of fenwiCk iCe Cream Co.
FRED’S SHANT Y RESTAURANT
272 Pequot Ave, New London | 860-447-1301 | fredsshanty.com @fredsshantyNL | @fredsshanty
Open year-round; 11 a.m.–8 p.m. daily
SALEM VALLEY FARMS ICE CREAM
20 Darling Road, Salem | 860-859-2980 salemvalleyfarmsicecream.com
W@salemvalleyfarms | @salemvalleyfarms
Open late March–late October; Thursday–Friday, 3–8 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, 12–8 p.m.; Closed Monday–Wednesday
hat looks like a simple roadside red barn just off Route 82 in Salem is actually home to one of the most robust ice cream menus in the state. With more than 80 rotating flavors, Salem Valley Farms makes its ultra-creamy offerings in tiny batches. Each batch is made just two tubs at a time, ensuring rich, creamy textures and generous chunks of chocolates, cookies, and nuts. Flavors range from classics like cherry vanilla to inventive creations such as cappuccino fudge crunch, basil, and “Key ‘Lyme’ Pie.” Vegan and dairy-free options like lemon sorbet and vegan chocolate almond cater to all dietary preferences. This is the perfect place to cool off and enjoy a sweet treat after a hike at Devil’s Hopyard.
LAKESIDE FARM STAND
31 Lake Drive, Guilford | 203-457-0152 | lakesidefarmstand.com
@lakesidefarmstandopen
Open year-round; Tuesday–Sunday, 10:30 a.m.–8 p.m.
BISHOP’S ORCHARDS CREAMERY
1355 Boston Post Road, Guilford | 203-453-2338 bishopsorchards.com/bishops-orchards-creamery @bishopsorchardsfarmmarket | @bishopsorchards
Open year-round; Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Tucked in a sixth-generation farm dating back to 1871, Bishop’s Orchards Creamery takes the “farm-to-table” ethos straight to the cone. Every batch is churned in small quantities using rich New England dairy and peak-season produce picked just steps away from the kitchen. Expect hyper-seasonal flavors like roasted peach basil, sweet corn, strawberry-rhubarb crisp, and honey lavender. A spacious outdoor patio nestled beside the farm market offers a relaxed spot to enjoy farm-fresh scoops.
Photo Courtesy of BishoP’s orChards Creamery
Photo Courtesy of @saLemvaLLeyfarms / instagram
TOX
Tox Brewing Company’s long-awaited move ushers in a new era for downtown New London
By Elle Rahilly
On a chilly, rain-soaked evening last November, Bank Street in New London buzzed with an energy that defied the weather. Art and craft beer enthusiasts alike spilled onto the sidewalks to celebrate a pair of grand openings. The Local Gallery and Event Space unveiled a new exhibition, and just across the street, Tox Brewing Company officially made its highly anticipated move downtown.
Founded in 2019 by lifelong friends Mike Zaccaro and Dayne Laskey, Tox was born from a shared fascination with nature and experimentation and a love for creating exceptional beer.
“There’s something very human and historic about fermentation,” says Laskey. “We’re keeping an ancient tradition alive and making it our own.”
The pair, who grew up together in Gales Ferry and both attended the University of Connecticut, began homebrewing more than a decade ago. Laskey went on to become a clinical toxicologist and professor, while Zaccaro pursued a series of corporate roles before discovering a deeper calling in beer tourism and craft brewing.
of the town
The decision to plant roots in New London came easily. When Tox launched in 2019, the city had no other breweries—a gap Zaccaro and Laskey were eager to fill. When it came time to expand, the two cemented their commitment to the community by opting for a prominent downtown location rather than a lower-cost industrial space.
“We used to play music down here and always enjoyed the city,” Zaccaro reflects. “There’s a very cool, creative scene full of artists and entrepreneurs. It’s exciting to fill the abandoned storefronts and be a part of the rebirth of downtown.”
Tox now occupies the historic Montgomery Ward Building, a New London landmark recognized for its distinctive, early-twentieth-century Art Deco architecture. The move marks a tenfold expansion from the brewery’s original 1,400-square-foot location on Broad Street to a sprawling 14,000-square-foot production facility and destination taproom downtown.
To neighboring destinations like the Favorites Bistro Bar, known for its Caribbean-inspired dishes and Sunday brunches, Tox’s move has been a boon for business downtown.
“They’ve brought over loyal customers from their previous location while attracting new ones,” says Favorites owner Majan Pierre. “This has translated into new business for us as [patrons] look for unique places to check out while they’re on Bank Street.”
FAR LEFT Yellow-banded poison dart frog. Photo Courtesy of tox Brewing ComPany
ABOVE Tox owners Dayne Laskey (left) and Mike Zaccaro in their new Bank Street space with their Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut membership certificate. Photo By Jean miChaeL Coronado
BELOW Floor-to-ceiling glass windows in the taproom offer an overhead view of the brewing tanks. Photo Courtesy of tox Brewing ComPany
FROM THE COVER
Favorites will partner with the brewery for a beer pairing event at the restaurant this summer.
“The owners have been nothing but great neighbors to us,” Pierre adds. “We are excited for this increased interest in New London and look forward to generating the same excitement that’s similar to Blue Back Square in West Hartford.”
Tox’s original Broad Street space now houses Coastal Brewing Supply, a homebrew supply shop with plans to expand into a full-fledged brewery.
“We put a lot of time and money into outfitting that space to make it a functioning brewery,” Zaccaro says. “We thought, ‘Imagine if someone did that for us?’ It’s nice to know that place will still be a community gathering space with people trying to make their own great craft beer.”
The move downtown isn’t just about size. Zaccaro and Laskey envisioned the new space as a gathering hub for community, creativity, and learning. The welcoming, fam ily-friendly atmosphere reflects that vision. Booth seating, arcade games, and even a live poison dart frog exhibit add playful touches to the taproom. Tox also hosts a diverse lineup of events ranging from sushi and jewelry-making workshops to rare plant showcases and science talks. Lo cal artisans and crafters are often featured during periodic pop-up shops.
“Tox itself has created a beautiful, artistic showplace for their brewery and actively supports art,” says Susan McKay, art director at The Local. Since opening to a packed house last September, the gallery has become a fixture downtown
662-4917
RIGHT “The dose makes the poison,” the brewery’s ethos, is displayed on the wall of the taproom next to a chalkboard highlighting some common chemical compounds that can be both beneficial and dangerous, depending on the dose. Photo Courtesy of tox Brewing ComPany
BELOW Chinese New Year limited edition cans that break from the traditional Tox label style. Photo Courtesy of tox Brewing ComPany
and houses a mix of rotating exhibits by regional authors and artists, including renowned marine muralist Wyland.
“We have definitely seen an uptick since their opening and are so glad for what they add to Bank Street,” adds McKay. “Many times, patrons pop in our gallery to check it out on their way to or from Tox.”
The brewery’s taproom features a wood-fired pizza oven and a recently opened coffee shop. Also newly available is a vintage-inspired soda “shoppe” offering hand-stirred sodas made to order.
“I’ve always loved that turn-of-thecentury pharmacy kind of set up,” explains Laskey. While food and non-alcoholic options are increasingly essential in today’s craft beer scene, the co-founders are clear that Tox remains, above all else, a brewery.
Visitors will find a curated collection of live and preserved botanical specimens inside the taproom, many of which inspire
the names behind Tox’s beers. Stouts like “Belladonna” and “Deadly Nightshade” nod to the dark allure of their namesakes.
“The dose makes the poison,” Laskey explains, pointing to the brewery’s ethos on a taproom wall, a key toxicology principle. “A lot of these plants are medicines at the right dose. At the wrong dose, they’re not.” Gesturing toward an Atropa belladonna plant (commonly known as deadly nightshade) on display, he continues, “From this we get FDA-approved medicines that you can find in any ambulance.” Laskey clarifies that none of the plants in the taproom are harmful to touch or display, part of his broader effort to de-stigmatize poisonous flora and spark curiosity.
Tox’s branding reflects the founders’ love for the natural world and embodies a place where plants have secret healing powers, wildlife inspires wonder, and each brew feels like alchemy. Many of the beers are named after toxic plants, fungi, and
venomous creatures, blending creativity with an educational twist for consumers. “A lot of breweries make amazing beer,” Zaccaro says. “But we thought it’d be cool to tie our space into a concept.”
Storytelling, science, and sensory experience guide every aspect of Tox’s brewing process. The team releases one or two new beers weekly, some returning favorites, others experimental.
“A lot of times we release a new flavor that’s intended to be an experiment or a one-off, it’s so well received that it goes into the rotation,” Zaccaro notes. As the catalogue continues to grow, each addition brings its own narrative. “Many of them have folklore or some interesting tie-in that we like to highlight,” adds Laskey. “There’s a story behind every beer.”
A recent release named “Overview Effect” exemplifies the brewery’s focus on the fusion of science and storytelling. Brewed with yeast that traveled to space with astronaut and longtime Tox sup-
The artwork for “Overview Effect” features a fantastic space-scape, including floating jellyfish and, of course, astronaut Toxy. image By Pat regan
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porter Christopher Huie, the Englishstyle ale invites drinkers to experience something truly out of this world.
“We agreed to send some yeast to space with him and bring it back to earth, so everyone can experience a little piece of the journey,” says Laskey. The beer’s name references the perspective-shifting experience astronauts describe when seeing Earth from orbit.
That narrative extends to the packaging. The pair collaborate with artist Patrick Regan, a New London native who brings the brand to life through imaginative and historically inspired label art.
“Getting connected with Dayne and Mike was the best cold email I’ll ever send,” says Regan, who reached out to the owners after reading about a new brewery coming to New London. “I sent them my portfolio right away. That was probably 2016 or 2017.”
While Tox wasn’t ready for label artwork then, Zaccaro and Laskey were immediately drawn to Regan’s style and felt it aligned with their vision. They initially brought him on to design the brewery’s logo and merchandise, with the intention of developing label art down the line. “And then it just took off from there,” Re-
gan says. “We have a great working relationship and friendship. They trust me to get quality work done and give me a lot of creative rein.”
“Working with [him] is so wonderful, because, really, the value of Pat is his brain,” Laskey notes. “Our labels are often intricate art pieces.”
Each design is a creative partnership. The founders give the scientific background and folklore behind each brew to Regan, who translates them into striking, often surreal visuals. “Some of them are more abstract than others,” Zaccaro adds. “It’s fun to see what his mind does.”
LEFT Tox sells branded merchandise and science-themed items including clothing, bags, hats, jewelry, and more. Photo By eLLe rahiLLy
ABOVE Patrons toasting to Tox’s grand opening in November 2024. Photo By Jean miChaeL Coronado
BELOW Artist Pat Regan creates Tox’s one-of-a-kind branding based on the mythology of a world known as Toxtopia. image By Pat regan
The artist brings a vivid imagination to his label designs, crafting a mythical world populated with eccentric characters and themes.
“You just want to stand out on the shelf and be known across the room,” he explains. “That was kind of my pitch to them. I’m going to illustrate this crazy, detailed world—with a whole map in my head where all these characters live.”
At the center of Regan’s illustrated universe is Toxy—a quirky hero on a quest through the fantastical world of Toxtopia, searching for magical hops to save his realm. Along the way, Toxy encounters allies, dodges villains, and explores everything from flowering fields to haunted forests and towering mountains. “It’s kind of like a Where’s Waldo? ” Regan says. “[People] have to find him on the can.” Regan’s Toxtopia brings a consistent visual mythology to the brewery’s vast catalogue, and the main character has become a fan favorite, with customers searching new releases for hidden details.
His work with Tox has also opened doors to collaborations with about a dozen other local breweries, including Abomination Brewing Company out of North Haven. “They’re among my favorite can art in Connecticut, so it was cool to work with them and be up on that same pedestal as them in terms of beer art,” Regan says.
Tox’s commitment to quality calls for attention to detail throughout the process, from hop extraction to yeast health. “We’re not afraid to dump beer,” Zaccaro states. “If something doesn’t meet our standards, we will publicly open up the valve and dump 450 gallons down the drain.”
According to the brewer, sharing this process with the public isn’t the industry norm among upscale breweries. “We want to be honest with the process,” he continues. “I think it shows that we hold ourselves to a standard of quality.” Visitors can even observe the brewing process through floor-toceiling glass walls.
CONCEPT TO CAN
To design the one-of-akind label art that Tox showcases, artist Pat Regan starts with a concept turned into a sketch (top). He then develops the background art using a variety of processes (middle), and finally, adds the label information to the art (bottom). Regan’s illustrations help the cans stand out and bring Tox’s ethos to life. images By Pat regan
Tox’s underground speakeasy features vintage “remedies” and potions and is a work in progress. Photo By eLLe rahiLLy
With the new facility, Tox aims to triple its brewing capacity and hit 1,000 barrels in its first year, double what the old space could handle.
“We’ve been careful about how we scale, and most things have actually been turning out better than how we were able to make them uptown,” says Zaccaro.
Their process marries Laskey’s scientific precision with Zaccaro’s intuitive, flavor-driven approach. Experimental beers are often released under the “Pharm Party” or “Pollen” labels, which invite customer feedback and help guide future releases. “As a scientist, peer review is the bedrock of science,” Laskey explains. “And I see the customers as peer reviewers.”
Sustainability is another cornerstone. The brewing system downtown recaptures and reuses heat from previous batches, significantly reducing energy and water waste. Products are distributed using compostable four-pack holders made from spent grain, part of a larger effort to reduce the brewery’s carbon footprint.
Despite their growth, Zaccaro and Laskey remain rooted in the New London community. “The rising tide lifts all boats, right?” muses Laskey. That philosophy translates to regular collaborations with local creatives and encouraging patrons to keep the night going at neighboring spots along Bank Street. “You have to be the change you want to see,” Zaccaro adds. “And if you want the downtown to come alive, you’ve got to do your part. We thought this was our chance to add our mark on the city.”
Where’s
Toxy?
Find Tox Brewing’s beloved frog and you could win!
Count the number of times the below image of Toxy shows up throughout this issue of On the Shoreline.
You’ll have the chance to win one of five exclusive prizes, provided by Tox Brewing Company!
Message the number to the On the Shoreline Facebook page (@ontheshoreline) by 11:59 p.m. on July 6.
We’ll choose winners during the week of July 7!
The
image of Toxy on the cover doesn’t count toward the total, but this one does!
Any image of Toxy other than the one above, including those found on depictions of cans and merchandise, should not be counted toward the total.
The mushroom-shaped taps at Tox were designed and created by local artist Charlie Cunningham. Photo Courtesy of tox Brewing ComPany
mountainb
nbiking Theunsungteamsport
By Cris Cadiz
Izzi Greenberg and Spencer Meyer loved to ride around on bikes as kids. Both continued to ride as adults, and when they had their own children, they wanted to share this healthy, fun outdoor activity with them.
Today, both Connecticut residents coach youth mountain bike teams. Their passion for the sport is rooted in knowing that exploring on bikes is fun, but riding with a team offers lifelong lessons and physical and mental growth that can carry into adulthood.
Greenberg is an assistant coach for Petal Power, an all-girls mountain bike team based in greater Middletown and the lower Connecticut River Valley. Meyer is the head coach of Rocklandia Rad n Gnar, which rides out of the Madison, Guilford, and Durham region. Both teams are part of the Connecticut Cycling Advancement Program (CCAP).
Founded in 2013, CCAP helps Connecticut kids ages 8 to 18 get involved in cycling by supporting regional teams, organizing races, and providing equipment when needed.
Eight years ago, when Greenberg’s youngest daughter was ready for a new bike, the shop staff told her about a new mountain bike team just for girls. They attended an open house, and her daughter, Eva Cohen, joined the team. Greenberg rode along with them occasionally.
“My skills developed alongside these girls, which is pretty cool,” she says. “I rode in the woods but didn’t have the knowledge or specific techniques. Now I’m proficient—that’s awesome for a woman in her 40s developing new skills in a sport.”
After safety training and coaching workshops through CCAP, Greenberg became an assistant coach and a strong advocate for girls and women in cycling.
“I want more young women on bikes,” she says. “Along with learning to be a good teammate, it’s good for mental health, for positive body image, for confidence. All the things we think young women struggle with now—I think mountain biking is a fix.”
Photo Courtesy of izzi greenBerg
Greenberg sees girls learn to push through effort they may not have experienced before and realize their minds and bodies are powerful. Mountain biking builds confidence and resilience that is often overlooked in girls’ sports, she says.
Meyer learned about CCAP while riding with his friend Tom Ghoreyeb, one of the founders of the Rocklandia team.
“My son Andrew was doing a little trail riding, but I wanted to get him out with other kids—it’s more fun, they learn more,” Meyer says.
Andrew joined the team at age 9, and Spencer Meyer volunteered as an assistant coach. He later became head coach when Ghoreyeb retired. When his younger son, Silas, joined the team, the three rode together often. “We got my wife Joanna a bike so she wouldn’t miss out on family adventures.”
Joanna Meyer started riding with Silas and developed her own bike skills. A former outdoor leadership and science teacher, she also became a coach and enjoyed developing her skills alongside the family.
Meyer loves seeing young riders on his co-ed team learn to overcome physical and mental challenges. His favorite part of coaching is “sessioning”—stopping to practice tough obstacles, steep hills, or other trail features.
“They might try the same feature every week for weeks, finally succeed, and learn persistence pays off, Meyer says. “Some kids can be pretty stoic. When they are just beaming with a sense of pride, it’s very satisfying to be there and help them in those moments.”
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Photo Courtesy of roCkLandia rad n gnar
Join a Local Team
Petal Power practices Wednesday afternoons at Wadsworth Falls in Middletown and Sundays at The Preserve in Westbrook.
Rocklandia Rad n Gnar meets Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings at Rockland Preserve in Madison, Westwoods in Guilford, the Quarry trails in Branford, and more.
For more information, visit ctcyclingadvancement.org .
Mountain biking with a team offers camaraderie, cheering teammates on, and supporting each other. When riders on a CCAP team perform well in races, the whole team can win an event.
“Mountain biking is also an individual sport, a personal journey,” Meyer says. “We’re all advancing at whatever level we’re at—whether you’re a beginner just learning to balance your bike or someone like me who’s been riding for 35 years. On a team, we all grow together and share each other’s successes.”
Every CCAP team has its own vibe. Some are more competitive, others are more about the journey.
According to Meyer, Rocklandia tends to be less race-oriented than other teams. “We focus on sessioning obstacles and technical riding due to our terrain—lots of rock gardens, rooty areas,” he says. “Some kids are competitive in races, but we focus on trail riding skills.”
Greenberg describes Petal Power as laidback, with a “compete or complete” philosophy. “You can try and win or just get through it; we will support both,” she says. “We want the girls to be empowered to make the choice for themselves. We push the kids to push themselves on their own mental boundaries—not against each other.”
Meyer recalls coaching Jacob, a boy new to mountain biking who struggled in a race. “Every lap, he wanted to quit,” Meyer says. “I told him how happy he would be if he finished. It took a lot of coaxing—he had a really tough day—but he finished and was glad he did.”
A few years later, Jacob asked Meyer for a character reference as he applied to join the Air Force.
“He told me how important that day was— not just building his confidence in biking, but in pursuing other challenges in life,” Meyer says. Greenberg’s daughter is heading to college next year. She wrote her college essay about mountain biking with Petal Power—an un-
Photo Courtesy of roCkLandia rad n gnar
Photo Courtesy of sPenCer meyer
Photo Courtesy of PetaL Power
Photo Courtesy of izzi greenBerg
usual sport for women and a way to stand out to admissions officers. At age 17, Cohen is now a junior coach for the team.
“I wanted to help other girls find the same confidence I found through mountain biking,” Cohen says.
“Having a healthy lifestyle in nature, plus the skills they gain on the trail, are great forever,” Greenberg says. “Mountain biking is good for mental and physical health, for social skills, for balance, and muscles. They might not race their whole lives, but they can always ride a bike, and they know they can do it.”
CCAP has almost a dozen teams, and each is a little different. You don’t need to live in a team’s geographical area to participate— just be able to get to practices.
“Don’t let finances get in the way of trying the sport,” Meyer says. CCAP can assist with bikes and equipment if that’s an issue.
“Do it!” Cohen says. “It’s a great way to get outside, push yourself, and meet amazing people. You don’t need to be an expert—just have an open mind and a willingness to learn. Being part of a team like Petal Power is all about growing together and having fun while doing it.”
Photo Courtesy of izzi greenBerg
Photo Courtesy of sPenCer meyer
Photo Courtesy of PetaL Power
Photo Courtesy of roCkLandia rad n gnar
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