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© Copyright 2022 by The Day Publishing Company All rights reserved. Reproductions without the permission of the publisher are prohibited. ATTENTION SUBSCRIBERS: This issue of The Day Magazine is considered one of The Day’s premium editions. You are receiving this premium publication for a fee equivalent to one issue of the newspaper; charged by moving your expiration date back by one day. If you would like to opt-out of receiving these publications please call Customer Service at 860-701-4400 or email memberservices@theday.com.
on the cover Thorncrest Farm Milk House Chocolates. photo by winter caplanson
this month
photo by Winter Caplanson
D E C E M B E R
2 0 2 2
56
A HANDMADE HOLIDAY
Local artisans create gifts with a sense of place
december 2022 9
departments CORRESPONDENCE 12 Editor’s note
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
PEOPLE & PLACES
15 Creative giving
Art=Gift 2022 market offers works for sale at Hygienic
29 The man behind the baton
20 A whole lot of making
A conversation with ECSO conductor Toshiyuki Shimada
going on
Spark Makerspace provides room to create, develop skills in New London
34 Leaving Wall Street
Former finance executive opens chic boutique in Essex
TASTE
39
39 Salem’s brews
Beer-makers create deliciously unique blends at Fox Farm
44 Dinner and a Christmas movie
Try out these unique holiday dining experiences in December
52 Restaurant listings
LOOKING BACK 65 A river’s ghosts in Old Saybrook
Remains of 19th-century steamboat still serve in North Cove
TRENDING 69 Stream a Gilmore Girls Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography
10
magazine
winter marathon
72 Turning pages
Curl up with a good Christmas book
74 Local finds
Shop unique. Shop local.
Photo courtesy of mystic Seaport Museum
92
EXPLORATIONS 87 Cerulean Spa,
where the river meets the sea
Brought to you by Cerulean Spa at Mystic Marriott
88 What’s not to hike?
You might be surprised by the vistas, solitude of a cold winter trek
92 ’Tis the season
for holiday family fun
LIFE CYCLES 77 A collaborative
approach to replacing unwanted dentures
78 A Christmas rite of passage
Ballet school’s annual The Nutcracker returns to Garde stage
82 The healing power of music
Musician, social worker Paul Clark promotes wellness through his songs
photo by THOMAS GIROIR PHOTOGRAPHY
Brought to you by Graniteville Dental Solutions
78 Custom lightin g design for
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december 2022 11
correspondence | EDITOR’S NOTE
Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam. Photo by Kelly Hunt
dear readers,
W
elcome to December and our holiday
There’s so much to do and see in southeastern
issue of The Day Magazine! Thanks for
Connecticut throughout the holiday season. Some
joining us for this edition, which we
events, like the Eastern Connecticut Ballet’s annual pre-
had so much fun putting together.
sentation of The Nutcracker, are a holiday tradition, and
Let’s face it, the holidays are cer-
for families with children, a Christmas rite of passage.
tainly joyous—gathering with family
There are holiday light shows, a musical theater presen-
and friends, celebrating winter and a coming new year,
tation at the Goodspeed, Christmas movies shown with
and enjoying the spirit of the season. But they can also
dinner, even a chance to have a lovely meal in a restored
be hard work: battling the crowds to find the right gifts,
vintage gondola, all covered throughout this issue.
setting up the tree and decorating the house, planning a
We also have a conversation with Eastern Connecticut
holiday dinner menu and everything else that goes along
Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor
with holiday planning. We hope that with this issue, we
Toshiyuki Shimada about his life, his work and what it
make your holidays a little brighter—and easier.
takes to create a unified sound from dozens of individ-
Shopping for that perfectly thoughtful gif t, for
ual instruments; and we introduce you to another musi-
instance, doesn’t mean a trip to a big box or the mall,
cian, Paul Clark, who promotes the idea that music (even
or endless scrolling online. In this issue, we highlight
Christmas music!) can be healing and therapeutic.
regional artisans and their hand-made, one-of-a-kind
The holidays are about bringing us together and we
chocolates, soaps, prints and cards, pottery and more.
hope that you’ll find some time for your family and
We also tell you about Hygienic Art’s annual Art=Gift
friends by taking us up on some of the ideas we present
holiday show, featuring handcrafted and affordable art-
this month. Thank you for spending your time with us,
work, paintings, ornaments, jewelry and more by art-
and please feel free to write to me with your comments
ists in and around New London. There’s also Fox Farm
about this issue, the holidays or anything else you’d like
Brewery, a Salem beer-maker that hand-crafts some of
to share!
the most interesting and unique brews we’ve ever seen, available for pre-order and pickup (and gift-giving!) or to try on site.
Traci Neal, editor t.neal@theday.com
Send your questions, comments, suggestions and ideas to thedaymag@theday.com or look us up on social media. You may even be featured in our “Correspondence” section in a future issue. By getting in touch with us, you give us permission to reprint your comments.
12
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in the spotlight E N T E R TA I N M E N T
C U LT U R E
Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford. Photo by Gretchen Knauff
ARTS
gifts galore at Hygienic Art=Gift market
14
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gettng crafty at Spark Makerspace
Creative giving ART=GIFT 2022 MARKET OFFERS WORKS FOR SALE AT HYGIENIC
A man poses with a handmade table created by artist Don Ledversis at Art=Gift 2021. photo by Vinnie Scarano
S
By Phil Hall
The 18th annual Art=Gif t event runs through
hopping for gifts in December can be one of
December 23, and it features a selection of original
the most headache-inducing aspects of the
art and hand-crafted items from regional creative art-
holiday season. After all, the idea is to get
ists—with all items priced at $100 or less. Admission
something meaningful that the recipient will
to the Art=Gift show is free.
like and appreciate rather than something
According to Hygienic’s director, Sara Tyler-
that will be returned or regifted. And, of course, this
Connolly, the event began as “Art for the Consumer” in
year brings the extra burden of an inf lation-heavy
2004 as the brainchild of Hygienic artist-in-residence,
economy, which will put a crimp on gift-buying for
Justin Bisceglio; the Art=Gift name came in 2008 via
many people.
Bisceglio’s successor as Hygienic resident artist, Kat
New London’s nonprofit Hygienic Art has a holi-
Murphy.
day gift-giving solution that represents a win-win-win
“The show was started as an art market for local
for the gift buyer, the gift recipient and the local arts
artists and residents to make money selling their art
community.
and creations,” said Tyler-Connolly, who noted some of
december 2022 15
in the spotlight the most popular pieces with buyers have been “gift-
on the wall, selling all of one artist’s work who was not
able items, such as hand-painted ornaments, jewelry,
confident about her artistic ability, and two custom-
small paintings and wood carvings.”
ers having a tug-of-war over a table made from keys,
Other works that have been for sale at Art=Gift include sculpture, fine art photography, wood block prints and ceramics.
Among the artists displaying their work at this year’s Art=Gift is Rhode Island-based Don Ledversis,
Approximately 50 artists selected by invitation are
the creator of the table that inspired the tug-of-war.
participating in this year’s Art=Gift, Tyler-Connolly
“My artwork consists [of] found objects,” he said.
added. Prior to 2021, the event culled its artists
“Basically, what I do is take items that have been
through an application process. Art=Gift is also one
either discarded or are no longer of any use to any-
of the rare holiday season events that was not forced
body for their original value—it’s a different use,
into cancellation or a virtual platform during the
instead of going to the landfill [or] a scrap yard.”
COVID-19 pandemic. “The show went on both years with COVID protocols in place,” Tyler-Connolly said. Over the years, Tyler-Connolly recalled incidents that made Art=Gift stand out from the typical exhibition. “Memorable moments include sel l i ng a s sembla ge a r t before even getting it
16
resin and a metal base,” she said.
magazine
Ledversis was an engineering consultant who retired four years ago when he was 58 and now focuses on his art. His sculptures have been sold nationwide, with several items on public display in parks in Colorado and Oregon, but at Art=Gift he often is unaware of who is buying his work. “One time, I just happened to be at the show the same time t hat t h is gent lema n
far left A key table created from found or discarded keys by artist Don Ledversis, whose work will be on display and for sale at Hygienic’s Art=Gift 2022 show through December 23. Photo courtesy of Ledversis Sculpture left Art=Gift at Hygienic Art Gallery gives patrons an opportunity to meet the artists and view their handmade creations, available for purchase at the show. P hoto by Vinnie Scarano
came in with his wife and he just pointed to certain items in the room,” he recalled. “He was just walking around and pointing for the young lady that was running the place, which meant those were the ones he wanted delivered to his house.” The buyer, he added, was a prominent local business executive, and Ledversis is hoping that the return on investment for his found object creations “may go up [in] another 100 years.” Another artist at this year’s
Featuring New York City Ballet Stars Unity Phelan & Indiana Woodward Celebrating 20 years of Nutcracker Magic December 10th & 11th
s ho w i s Jac que l i ne A l le nD ouc ot , c o -fou nde r of t he nonprof it Hartford Catholic Worker. “I do a wide range of work,” she said. “I custom paint denim jackets, I make origami earrings, I make driftwood creatures, and I wood-burn and
For tickets visit gardearts.org or call 860-444-7373 Ext 1 december 2022 17
in the spotlight paint mirrors. I make all kinds of handmade ornaments.” Allen-Doucot has been part of the Art=Gift show for the last four years and she has been happy with the reaction to her work. “I have a philosophy that art should be accessible to everyone, so I’ve tried to keep the things I make affordable,” she said. “I think everyone loves art. And not everybody has the money to have access to it. So, I’ve tried to make things that are one-of-a-kind but also affordable, and I think people appreciate that.” For Allen-Doucot, being part of Art=Gift is a culmination of a trajectory from observer to artist. “I always loved going to the Hygienic when I was younger, and looking at other people’s art always inspired me,” she said. “So, I started participating in the salon they have once a year where you can go and hang a piece—it’s not a juried show—and then as I did more and more art I was accepted into juried shows. Last year I did one of the posters for the Hygienic salon and it was chosen to be reprinted for their yearly salon show. I always appreciated the Hygienic as the place where I kind of started.” Hygienic Art is located at 79 Bank Street, New London, hygienic.org, 860-443-8001
18
magazine
top left Driftwood creations by artist Jacqueline Allen-Doucot, who began visiting the gallery at Hygienic as a young artist. P hoto courtesy of Jacqueline Allen-Doucot bottom left Artist Don Ledversis’ swordfish sculpture was made using Scrabble tiles to spell out nautical words. Photo courtesy of Ledversis Sculpture above Mirrors created by artist Jacqueline Allen-Doucot, whose work will be on display and available for purchase at Hygienic’s Art=Gift 2022 show through December 23. Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Allen-Doucot
december 2022 19
in the spotlight
A whole lot of
making going on
SPARK MAKERSPACE PROVIDES ROOM TO CREATE, DEVELOP SKILLS IN NEW LONDON
above New London Mayor Michael Passero cuts the board at the grand opening of Spark Makerspace’s new home at 7 Union Street in May as Executive Director Casey Moran and Makerspace board chair Kristin Harkness look on. P hoto by Richard Selden
20
magazine
T
By Richard Selden
creative social space for creators of all ages, mentored
here’s a whole lot of making going on behind the
by experienced “leads,” who oversee and teach basic to
bright-orange arched doorway at 7 Union Street
advanced skills.
in New London, where creators are designing
“We were really founded on this community feeling,”
and printing posters, cutting and sewing fabric,
said Spark Executive Director Casey Moran, who pointed
grinding and assembling art glass, turning and
out that Spark remains largely a member-driven volun-
sanding wood, even wiring and soldering circuit boards.
teer effort, shaped by “a lot of people that work full-time
Two blocks from city hall, across from a Frontier
jobs and passionately give all their weekends to Spark.”
Communications parking lot, is Spark Makerspace, five
In May, Spark held a pandemic-delayed grand open-
workshops under one roof (technically, two roofs), which
ing of its “forever home” on Union Street, a historic
celebrated its new space with a grand opening earlier
commercial building purchased for $60,000 and reno-
this year.
vated throughout 2021. Donning goggles, with the crowd
Launched in 2015 in the former El ‘N’ Gee Club by
watching from a safe distance, New London Mayor
John Curran and Hannah Gant—who now runs RD86 at
Michael Passero used a jigsaw to cut through a blue
86 Golden Street—Spark is part of a national network of
board. The onlookers applauded as the two halves, each
nonprofit collaborative workspaces for creating, learning
with a bright-orange bow, separated cleanly.
and sharing skills. Its mission, according to organizers,
A $160,000 matching grant from economic develop-
is to support makers with the space, equipment, educa-
ment agency Thames River Innovation Place was the
tion and community “to create a spark in their creativity.”
spark (so to speak) for a $500,000 campaign enabling
By providing the space, equipment and know-how to
the replacement of both roofs and 33 windows. Chelsea
learners, Spark engages the community and serves as a
Groton Bank stepped up with a multiyear grant and
left Imna Arroyo, Jason Trembly and Jonathan Roussin work together in Spark’s wood shop. The goal of Spark is to support creators by providing the tools and knowledge they need to create. Photo courtesy of Spark Makerspace above Jose Garaycochea and Lana Tilke work on individual projects in Spark’s stained-glass studio. Spark is a community hub for creators that provides tools, equipment, workspace and training for a variety of maker activities. Photo courtesy of Spark Makerspace
december 2022 21
in the spotlight
above “Sun prints,” or cyanotypes, dry in the print shop. P hoto by Richard Selden right From left, Nike Desis, Maritza Gonzalez and Ian Hopkins collaborate on a project at Spark Makerspace. Part of Spark’s mission is to be a social hub for support, inspiration and empowerment for all who make and all who want to learn to make. P hoto courtesy of Spark Makerspace
22
magazine
the Cooperative Fund of New England provided a $150,000 loan for interior work. Most of the tools, equipment and supplies have been donated over the years, said Moran. “Everyone had a drill press to drop off,” recalled Moran, a Massachusetts College of Art graduate who was part of the core g roup. About $24 ,0 0 0 worth of brand-new tools came from New Britain-based Stanley Black & Decker, he said. Spark is one of a handful of independent makerspaces— s om e t i m e s c a l le d h ac k e r spaces—in the state. Others are in Hartford, New Haven, M e r i d e n , Wa t e r t o w n a n d Danbur y. Mini versions are popping up in libraries and community centers. “John [Curran, one of the founders] was really into other makerspaces,” said Moran.
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tools, equipment, supplies and mentorship in all f ive workshops—printing, f iber arts, stained glass, woodworking and electronics—plus computer stations, with more to come.
Rev. Norm Erlendson (860) 759-6720 www.fccstonington.org
The second floor, which contains an auditorium space of over 2,600 square feet, is currently used for offices and storage. There are plans “down the road,” Moran said, to refurbish
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it, likely with a video/recording studio. “When we do move upstairs, we want to fundraise big,” he said.
1353 & 1383 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, CT december 2022 23
in the spotlight The largest space now in use is the wood-f loored woodshop, a 42-by-42-foot space w ith an impressive array of equipment that includes band, miter, table and scroll saws, a drill press, lathes, a router table and a small CNC (computer numerical control) machine. The three woodshop “leads” are carpenter and Electric Boat engineer Dan Flavin, Jacob Kaeser, whose harpsichord shop is a short walk away in the Garde Arts Center complex, and Jonathan Roussin. During busy times, as one passes from fabric sewing to glass grinding to circuit soldering, the building feels a bit like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. The common denominators? The concentration, frustration and satisfaction that go hand-in-hand with creative activity, and the sense of community found in teaching and learning new skills. A member social is scheduled ever y other month, and Spark hosts public events such as the Summer Melt in September and the Halloween “Goth Ball” in October. Tours are offered on Saturdays and there are weekly open nights, such as Open Sew on Mondays and Electronics Night on Thursdays. A new target audience is homeschooled teenagers, said Moran. “We connected with a few homeschool groups,” explained Moran. On a recent morning, three students were drawing in preparation for screen printing, and three more were working on stainedglass panels suitable for framing or mounting.
24
magazine
Above Robbie Smith, Nike Desis and Free Smith at Spark Makerspace. Spark provides access to state-of-the-art tools in a facility that supports new learners and people who are highly experienced in their craft. Photo courtesy of Spark Makerspace left Soldering an “LED blinky pin” at Spark Makerspace’s Summer Melt event in September. P hoto by Richard Selden
S t a i n e d- g l a s s l e a d Va l e r i e Gilson discovered Spark—”a group of smart, fun, creative people”— early on. “I w a s lo ok i n g for s t a i ne dglass-related activities and I came ac r o s s Sp a rk Ma ker s p ac e on Meetup.com,” she said. Thanks to Gilson, a stained-glass workshop, based on her Gales Ferry home studio, became part of the mix. Now a New London resident, she added, “Spark was one of our factors in moving” to New London. Spark membership is currently around 120, on the way to a shortterm goal of 150. “I love seeing Spark change and grow,” remarked Moran, who estimated that about 60 percent of the above Homeschool student Bianca’s work area in the stained-glass workshop, which offers work space for novice to advanced glass workers, workshops and classes, equipment and supplies. Photo by Richard Selden below Annette Carlson, Maritza Vargas and Sydney Henderson work on projects in Spark’s fiber arts studio, which offers students machines and basic supplies, as well as instructors who can help with projects. Photo courtesy of Spark Makerspace
membership is from New London. Classes are offered to nonmembers, some of whom decide to join, often bringing their buddies along. “I’ve seen us get a little younger,” Moran said of Spark’s creators. Different makerspaces have different emphases. The Hartford site, MakerspaceCT, based in the former G. Fox & Co. department store and led by founder Devra Sisitsky, focuses on developing technical skills for employment and assisting would-be entrepreneurs. Spark, at least at this stage, is more about personal enrichment, making things for one’s home, and creating work to show and sell at fairs and in galleries. According to Moran, this is a reflection of the New London-area community. “What seeds grow,” he sa id, depends on “who plants the garden.”
december 2022 25
RING IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT FOXWOOD ‘Tis the season to gather with friends and family at Foxwoods Resort Casino. With enchanting wintry experiences, world-class dining and a wide range of family-friendly activities, Foxwoods is the perfect place to celebrate. Beginning Friday, November 25, Foxwoods’ beloved Ice Rink & Winter Terrace will open back up to the public. Here guests can make their merry way around the ice while basking in the glow of thousands of holiday lights. Guests can also enjoy food and drink in our village of cozy, themed pop-up igloos.
THEMED IGLOOS The Ice Rink & Winter Terrace also serves as the backdrop for a longstanding Foxwoods tradition: Our annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Complete with Christmas carolers, live performances, seasonal treats, and a special appearance from comedian and actor Chevy Chase – who will be turning on the lights this year! This holiday highlight will take place on Saturday, December 3.
ICE RINK & WINTER TERRACE SCHEDULE The Ice Rink & Winter Terrace will be open from Friday, November 25, to Sunday, March 5. Hours are as follows and are subject to change. • Thursdays: 4PM—8PM ET • Fridays: 2PM—10PM ET • Saturdays: 12PM—10PM ET • Sundays: 12PM—8PM ET
ICE RINK
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING To help get you in the holiday spirit, we’re hosting a variety of shows and performances meant to ring in the season starting November 26 with ‘Tis the Season with The Beach Boys, one of the most critically
acclaimed and successful bands of all time. The festivities continue on December 2 with The Clairvoyants Christmas, an out-of-thisworld show from America’s Got Talent finalists Thommy Ten and Amélie van Tass, and December 4 with the Worship Live Holiday Tour, a soul-stirring and unforgettable night of worship. Join us for an evening of holiday magic as Lindsey Stirling brings her Snow Waltz Tour on Friday, December 9.
For Black Friday and Cyber Monday, guests can enter our Tanger® Black Friday Shopping Sweepstakes—where participants can win one of ten $1,000 Tanger Gift Cards on Friday, November 18, to help them shop all the best deals. Additional promotions will be revealed beginning November 14 at foxwoods.com. Surrounded by thousands of ornaments, glittering lights and festive décor, kids of all ages can also enjoy a magical Breakfast with Santa at Cedars Steaks & Oysters a.k.a. The North Pole. Santa will take a break from his busy workshop to snap photos and supply a special holiday menu. Breakfast is served from 8AM to 11AM on Saturday, December 3, 10 and 17. Santa is needed in The North Pole so book today at foxwoods.com/holiday. If Santa’s not your style, how about the Grinch? We invite guests 21 and over to raise their spirits (and their glasses) at Cedars’ Boozy Brunch, hosted by the one who stole Christmas himself. On Sunday, December 18, at 12PM ET, guests can join us at Cedars for delicious
cocktails and seasonal treats. Want to keep the party going? The 12 Bars of Christmas returns to Foxwoods on December 15, where guestswill embark on an epic pub crawl throughout the casino property. Tickets for Cedars’ Boozy Brunch and the 12 Bars of Christmas are available on foxwoods.com/holiday.
And if that isn’t enough, restaurants all across the property will have specially-crafted dinner menus available this Christmas. Leave the cooking to Foxwoods this holiday season! Our celebrations don’t stop at Christmas: From December 25 to 28, we welcome our younger guests for Kids/Teen Week for fun movies, arts and crafts, interactive video game experiences, and more.
Foxwoods is thrilled to host you, our guests, during this most wonderful time of the year. We look forward to celebrating with you! For more information or to book your stay visit foxwoods.com/holiday
people & places ENVIRONMENT
FINANCE
PEOPLE
N E W & N O TA B L E
Mystic Seaport Museum from across the Mystic River, Mystic. P hoto by Leslie Crane
BUSINESS
symphony conductor Toshiyuki Shimada
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exchanging high finance for local boutique
people & places
The man behind the baton A CONVERSATION WITH ECSO CONDUCTOR TOSHIYUKI SHIMADA
E
By Janet Reynolds astern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada is used to life on the road. Although he is based in Connecticut and has led the ECSO for 13 years, he is also
the conductor and music director for the Orchestra for the Southern Finger Lakes in New York and, closer to home, the New Britain Symphony Orchestra. And those are just the orchestras within driving distance. Shimada has conducted—and continues to guest conduct—orchestras around the world, including Mexico, Turkey, South Korea, Prague, Czechoslovakia and Vienna, Austria, to name just a very few. In between, he has held teaching positions at Yale University—where he also led the university orchestra—Connecticut College, Rice University in Texas and the University of Southern Maine. A quiet-spoken man with an easy laugh, Shimada is sanguine about his peripatetic life. “You have to be a workaholic to be a conductor,” he says. It’s a path he chose as an 11-year-old when he joined the esteemed Tokyo Boys Choir in Japan. “I was mesmerized by our conductor and how he shaped the music with his hands and body,” he says. “I thought, ‘This is great.’” At symphony concerts with his parents, he started observing the conductor more than the musicians (although he played first violin and then clarinet, which he studied in college).
Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada has led the ECSO for 13 years. P hoto by Harold Shapiro
december 2022 29
Keeping all of the orchestra’s musicians on the same page is like bringing the composer back to life through music, says Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra Conductor and Music Director Toshiyuki Shimada. Photo courtesy of ECSO
When his voice began to change and he had to leave the boys choir, he asked the conductor if he could conduct a piece, and, after doing it well in rehearsal, the choir conductor asked him to conduct the piece in the concert. While many might think the role of a conductor is mostly about keeping everyone—sometimes literally—on the same page, the work begins long before the lights dim. “The number-one job is to unite all musicians as one instrument,” Shimada says. “If the orchestra can’t play together, then it’s not an orchestra. In that same spirit, they have to have the same understanding of the music.” The conductor, he explains, must convey the interpretation and meaning of the composer’s music during rehearsal so everyone produces the appropriate sound. “When they’re in sync and united, the sound will carry over to the audience as a unified message and hopefully touch the audience’s hearts,” he says. Unifying an orchestra—or band or chorus—requires a lot of preparation. “Conductors have to know scores backwards and forwards, just like a theater director knows a script backwards and forwards,”
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people & places PLENTY OF MUSIC IN 2023 WITH ECSO The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra 2022-23 season continues with the following Saturday concerts at the Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London: JANUARY 21: To kick off 2023, ECSO is joined by the New London Big Band, led by trombonist Sean Nelson, for a night of Americana music. FEBRUARY 18: Contrasting concerti and two very different soloists: tubist and ECSO principal Gary
New London Big Band. Photo courtesy of ECSO Vyacheslav Gryaznov, piano. P hoto courtesy of ECSO
Sienkiewicz will perform Vaughan Williams Tuba Concerto, and Vyacheslav Gryaznov will bring to life Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No.3. MARCH 18: The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus alongside Sarah Joyce Cooper, soprano, and Eliam Ramos, bass baritone, joins the orchestra in Brahms’ A German Requiem; and ECSO’s principal horn Matthew Muehl-Miller and tenor Gene Stenger share their rendition of
Matthew Muehl-Miller, French horn. P hoto courtesy of ECSO
Britten’s beautiful but not well-known Serenade. APRIL 22: The season concludes on an environmental note featuring Debussy’s La Mer (The Sea), Iman Habibi’s Jeder Baum Spricht (Every Tree Speaks) and Mendelssohn’s Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage. ECSO’s 2022 Instrumental Competition winner, Shirley Kim, will also be featured on cello performing Bloch’s Schelomo. The ECSO offers discounts for veterans and
Shirley Kim, cello. P hoto courtesy of ECSO
military as well as for patrons under 40. Tickets are available from the Garde box office, by phone at 860-444-7373 x1, by email at boxoffice@gardearts.org, and online at gardearts.org.
december 2022 31
people & places Shimada says. “I study until I almost feel like I wrote
orchestra and their tastes, too,” he says. “I also
the piece.”
have to represent the music from different eras
Conductors, Shimada continues, have that responsibility to the composer. “Most of them are
and different regions as much as possible and mix it into the season.”
dead so we have to study the scores, come up with
And that means creating concerts that work for
the right message and then ask orchestras to play
someone who subscribes to all six concerts as well
that way,” he says. “It’s like resurrecting a compos-
as for the audience member who just attends one.
er’s wish. That process is very important to me. I try
“[Subscribers] have to have a balanced program
to be honest and put myself aside and put the com-
[for the season]. But if you come to only one, you
poser in front.”
don’t have that balance, so I have to think about
Deciding how to craft a program begins long before he raises the baton for the first downbeat
each concert to make them exciting, uplifting and meaningful. That’s tough.
of rehearsal. As music director, Shimada is the
“Knowing the repertoire is so important, not
choreographer behind every program the ECSO
only classical music but pops, jazz—I know even
performs.
country-western songs, too,” he continues. “Music
“A music director has to know about everything
directors need to have that vast knowledge of
in the community. They have to know the audi-
music as a whole so they can put that into a mean-
ence and their taste and also the capacity of the
ingful program.”
above Conductor and Music Director Toshiyuki Shimada conducts the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra among others in the U.S., and is guest conductor for symphonies all over the world. P hoto courtesy of ECSO right Toshiyuki Shimada’s love of music began as a young child when he attended symphony concerts with his parents, studying the conductors more than the musicians. Photo by Harold Shapiro
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They also, like the most elite athletes, must stay in shape. Holding a baton and waving it for two hours is not as easy as it looks. “I used to conduct w i ld ly,” says Shimada, who is just past 70. “Now you adjust to how your body moves. Experience is a wonderful thing. I know when to save and when to give more. Having a baton helps. Without it you have to work harder.” Overall, Shimada says being older is actually a plus for a conductor. “As a conductor you’re still a toddler after 70. You become a great conductor after 80,” he says, noting one of his teachers is in his 90s and still conducting. “We have this curiosity that keeps us going in music. There is so much to understand in music. I first studied [Beethoven’s] Eroica when I was a 30-year-old. I understand much more about it now. I see many different things in the scores I didn’t see before. That’s the benefit of growing older.” “Mentally this business keeps our brains in good health,” he adds, saying the job requires constant thinking, analyzing and multi-tasking. “I conducted the Eroica over 50 times in my life. People think you don’t have to prepare, but you do. I can always find something new.”
“The number-one job is to unite all musicians as one instrument.” TOSHIYUKI SHIMADA december 2022 33
people & places
Leaving Wall Street
FORMER FINANCE EXECUTIVE OPENS CHIC BOUTIQUE IN ESSEX By Mary Ellen Fillo
O
ld Saybrook resident Robin Zubretsky took the long way from Wall Street to downtown Essex when it comes to professions.
The former New York City finance
executive liked her job, but after she relocated with her husband to California for his job, Zubretsky started thinking about what she really wanted to do in life. The result, an eventual return to Connecticut, where she grew up, and the opening of her new store, The RiverLane, on Main Street in Essex. “I always wanted to do something entrepreneurial,” explained Zubretsky, who opened RiverLane in September. The store features more than 50 brands of women’s clothing that are a blend of New York style and Essex casual sophistication. “ T h i s w a s n’ t a w h i m ,” s a i d Zubretsky. “I did a lot of research, looked for the right location for over a year, and decided Essex was the place because it is a busy downtown Robin Zubretsky left her job in New York City finance, spent a year looking for the right location, and finally opened The RiverLane on Main Street in Essex in September. P hoto courtesy of The RiverLane
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with great places to shop and eat. “I was thrilled when I found this space on one of Connecticut’s most beautiful streets,” Zubretsky said of the circa-1880s former bank building, which she had renovated while
retaining its unique architectural details. “I am excited to bring a retail boutique to the town and state I dearly love.” A self-proclaimed “shopaholic,” Zubretsky, had a few goals in mind when it came to planning out the retail philosophy for her store. “You are as likely to find me at places like Marshalls as you are at a boutique in New York City,” said Zubretsky, who grew up in Killingly and graduated from Central Connecticut State University. “I wanted a store that not only appealed to all ages, but had quality merchandise at affordable price points as well.” The store features a diverse mix of clothes ranging from weekend loungewear to satins suited for a holiday party. Name brands run the gamut and include Veronica Beard, Love Shack Fancy, Rag & Bone and Smythe. The store also offers shoes, jewelry and purses, small home items and hostess gifts, like candles and books. “I want a grandmother and her granddaughter to come in here together and both leave with something they will love to wear,” said Zubretsky. TOP The RiverLane features more than 50 brands of women’s clothing that are a blend of New York style and Essex casual sophistication. P hoto courtesy of The RiverLane; MIDDLE AND BELOW The RiverLane’s comfortable and inviting seating areas create a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers looking for a perfect piece, whether that’s loungewear or a holiday outfit complete with shoes, jewelry and a purse. P hotos courtesy of The RiverLane
december 2022 35
people & places
RIGHT Store owner Robin Zubretsky, a selfdescribed “shopaholic,” says she’s just as likely to shop at stores like Marshalls as she is at New York City boutiques, and the clothing styles and price points at The RiverLane reflect that. Photo courtesy of The RiverLane BELOW The RiverLane was opened inside a renovated circa-1880s bank building along Essex’s Main Street, near several other clothing boutiques, restaurants and the Connecticut River. P hoto courtesy of The RiverLane OPPOSITE, TOP LEFT The RiverLane hung its shingle in September and upcoming plans include hosting trunk shows, special shopping nights and Sip-n-Shop events. Photo courtesy of The RiverLane OPPOSITE, TOP RIGHT Customers shop at The RiverLane, which also offers extras, like in-store tailoring, styling experts and beverages. Photo courtesy of The RiverLane OPPOSITE, BOTTOM In addition to clothing, shoes and jewelry, The RiverLane also offers small home items and hostess gifts, like candles and books. Photo courtesy of The RiverLane
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The shop a l s o of fer s t he extras, like in-store tailoring, styling experts and beverages, and plans to host trunk shows, special shopping nights and Sip-n-Shop nights at the store, Zubretsky said. Her high energy and good taste guided her as she transformed the brick bank into a chic boutique shop. A nod to the nearby water is reflected in the gray, blue and white decor punctuated by a midcentury modern-inspired “Sputnik” chandelier. “ Th i s h a s b e e n a l e a r ning project for me and I love learning f rom others,” said Zubretsky. “I want my store to be a beautiful place to visit, one where there is no pressure, just
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help, and the store where you find exactly what you’re looking for.” The RiverLane is located at 7 Main Street in Essex. For more information, visit theriverlane.com.
New London Adult Education Culture on Wheels Travel Program
Overnight Tours Washington DC - April 14-17
Daytime City Tour of DC, Washington by Night Tour, National Museum of the United States Army, Arlington National Cemetery, National Harbor Includes: Deluxe Motorcoach, 3 Nights Hotel, 3 Breakfasts,2 Dinners, all Sightseeing & Admissions per itinerary,Tour Escort, Driver & Tour Director Gratuity $842pp dbl Deposit $300 due 1/20/23
MOSES-Sight & Sound Theatre - June 7-9
Sight & Sound Theatre - “Moses” Dutch Apple Theatre - “Elvis the Musical” Kitchen Kettle, Amish Farmlands Tour, Hershey Town Tour Includes: Deluxe motorcoach, 2 nights hotel, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, sightseeing & admissions as per itinerary,Tour Escort, Driver & Tour Director Gratuity $628ppdbl/$758single
See our website for more information & a complete list of day and overnight tours www.newlondonadulted.org 860-437-2385
december 2022 37
E N T E R TA I N I N G
R E S TA U R A N T S
FOOD & DRINK
Fox Farm Brewery, Salem.. Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography
RECIPES
taste
exclusive brews at Fox Farm in salem
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unique holiday dinner ideas
taste
Salem’s brews
BEER-MAKERS CREATE DELICIOUSLY UNIQUE BLENDS AT FOX FARM
O
By Anthony Pioppi
old dairy barn is home to much of the Fox Farm
n a narrow strip of land off Music Vale
brewing operation, overseen by Zack’s brother
Road in a quiet corner of the peaceful
and general manager, Dave.
town of Salem sits a beer-making oper-
Visitors come for the tasting room and indoor
ation that has become known as one of
and outdoor seating areas (walk-ins or by online
the premier makers of lagers in a mar-
reservation), to try out the brewery’s offerings
ket saturated by India pale ales or IPAs. On the site of a former dairy farm purchased by husband and wife, Zack and Laura Adams, the
and to enjoy the bucolic surroundings. Cans or bottles are also available to go and may be pre-ordered online for pickup.
Fox Farm Brewery founder and brewer Zack Adams adds corks to a corking machine. Corks are used for some of the beermaker’s special brews. Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography
december 2022 39
taste
“What we’re known for and where we do our
falls under the farmhouse ale designation will
best to stand out is lagers and farmhouse ales.
have a bit of a funky flavor, kind of like wet hay
It’s where we hang our hats,” said Zack Adams,
or earth. It will also be tart, like an unripened
pointing out that many brewers that have for
strawberry, and leave your mouth crisp and dry.
years focused on IPAs are now also brewing
Other than that, the possibilities are endless.”
lagers. “They’re veering off the IPA train. We’ve been waiting for them.”
exposure to wild yeasts and bacteria found in the
Adams describes lagers as “not drowning in
air, as opposed to cultivated strains of brewer’s
hops,” the way IPAs do. With lagers, the flavors of
yeast, some of which are hundreds of years old.
the malts come through. He sees it as the “sub-
Tr ue l a mbic s a r e on l y b r e w e d i n t he
tlety” of lagers versus the “intensity” of IPAs.
Pajottenland region of Belgium and in the city
“Lagers are so well-suited for pairing with life,” he added.
of Brussels. “They are a type of wild or sour beer and are
Zack’s wife, Laura, grew up about a half-mile
often made with fruit. Sure to give you a gush of
from the brewery in a house where her parents
flavour on the first sip,” writes Justbeerapp.com
still reside. There is a vineyard on their property,
of lambics.
but not a winery. Her father owns the upholstery business, Andy’s Trim Shop in New London. Fox Farm has expanded into producing what’s known as “farmhouse” and “lambic” styles of
40
Lambic-style brews are fermented through
As for Fox Farm’s farmhouse ales, which naturally carbonate in the bottles, Adams describes them as “lending themselves well to drinkability. I think ours are approachable.”
beer. They constructed a building dedicated to
To that end, Fox Farm is now canning their
a process that involves up to three years of aging
farmhouse ales, which are usually found in 750
beer in oak barrels.
milliliter (or bigger) colored glass bottles, add-
“A farmhouse ale is not a single style of beer.
ing an air of sophistication to the style as if they
It’s actually a broader category of styles,” accord-
should be saved for a special occasion. The cans
ing to Vinepair.com. “... In general, a beer that
instantly dispel that notion.
magazine
Farmhouse ales are traditionally brewed in the w inter with the rising and falling temperatures used to help create the unique characteristics. Fox Farm’s farmhouse ales include one made with wild beach plums that are indigenous to coastal areas from Maine to Maryland, including Connecticut. W he n it c ome s t o b e e r s enjoyed, not just produced, dur ing the long nig hts a nd short days of winter, though, t he st yle s t h at pre dom inate are those that tend to be darker—but not necessarily heavier—than their summer
FAR LEFT Fox Farm creates a changing variety of brews in cans and bottles, including lagers, pilsners, ales, stouts and more, available for online preorder and pickup. Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography LEFT A number of draft selections are available for sampling in Fox Farm’s tasting room. Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography
counterparts. With the exception of brews known as “winter warmer,” a British term that describes traditionally spiced winter beers (called winter ales or Christmas ales in the U.S.), there is no set def inition of a w inter beer, although most have malt as their foundation with the hop notes in the background. Traditional styles, such as porter, brown, stout, alt and
STOP IN FOR A BITE, A BREW & A GROWLER FILL TOO!
Fresh Beer, Brewed Here! Willimantic Brewing Company Restaurant and Pub Brewery 967 Main St, Willimantic, CT 860.423.6777 • willibrew.com
dark lager tend to sell better in the coldest months. “It’s the beers I reach for in the cold-weather months. They h it d i f ferent ,” is how Adams defines a winter brew. He calls them “satisfying and comforting.” Dave Adams concurs. “At a cer t a i n t i me of t he year you are in the mood,” for a darker or spicier brew, said
december 2022 41
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Dave. “It’s more about mood. There’s tradition and nostalgia that fit into the season.”
In addition to purchasing beer at the Fox Farm brewery, it can also be found on draft at local restau-
Fox Farm’s unique offerings include brews with
rants and ale houses including Two Brothers Pizza
names like Quiet Night, a Czech-style dark lager;
Restaurant and Pub in Salem; the Engine Room,
Scatter, Fox’s take on American brown ale; The Camp,
Oyster Club and Port of Call, in Mystic, and at Tony D’s
a smoked lager, and Echoes, a Baltic porter aged in
Restaurant in New London.
bourbon barrels and made with honey. There is also Ashlawn Coffee Stout, made with Ashlawn Farm Coffee
Fox Farm Brewery is at 62 Music Vale Road in Salem,
of Old Saybrook, which is owned by the Adams’ aunt.
and is open for walk-in visitors Thursday and Friday
Most of these varieties are sold outside of the winter months, as well. “Ninety-nine percent of the time we have a dark beer option,” said Zack Adams.
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from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit foxfarmbeer.com for information, pre-ordering and to reserve a specific seating area.
ABOVE Fox Farm Brewery is located on the site of a former dairy farm in Salem. Visitors come to taste the brews and enjoy the scenery (walkins welcome if space permits, and reservations may be made online). Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography TOP RIGHT The brewery’s bottled Xenia is a saison-style farmhouse ale made with honey, lemon peel and rosemary. Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography BOTTOM RIGHT Fox Farm’s farmhouse ales naturally carbonate in the bottles, according to founder and brewer Zack Adams. Photo by Jake Snyder, Red Skies Photography
december 2022 43
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dınner
Photo courtesy of Saybrook Point Resort & Marina
s a m t s i chr and a
m vıe TRY OUT THESE UNIQUE HOLIDAY DINING EXPERIENCES IN DECEMBER
By Jennifer Carmichael
Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, Old Saybrook If you like the idea of eating a fancy holiday meal,
But there’s no need to wait until Christmas Day to
but don’t want to spend hours preparing it in your
kick back, relax and enjoy a holiday meal. Saybrook
own kitchen, you’re in luck. Saybrook Point Resort
Point Resort & Marina was decorated just after
& Marina is offering a Christmas Day dinner served
Thanksgiving and has been ready to welcome visi-
in its Lighthouse Gallery overlooking the marina.
tors throughout the winter season. A weekly Sunday
Here’s where you can enjoy a festive dining experi-
brunch is offered from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and
ence, while creating holiday memories with loved
includes something for everyone. Choose from a
ones. The spectacular spread includes a harvest
variety of salads and soup, pasta, waffle and omelet
table with international cheeses, a chef-attended raw
stations, a selection of entrees like blackened sword-
bar, a seasonal soup station, salads and entree selec-
fish with mango salsa and chipotle maple BBQ St.
tions, such as potato and fennel-crusted Chilean sea
Louis ribs, a seafood and meat display, breakfast
bass and seared Long Island duck. Dinner is served
pastries and more.
from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call to secure your table: 860-339-1318.
Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, 2 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook, saybrook.com
december 2022 45
taste
Weekapaug Inn,
Westerly, Rhode Island If watching a holiday movie together is a family tradition, Cinema Under the Stars will kick it up a notch. Enjoy a casual outdoor dinner and a movie at the Weekapaug Inn’s Fenway Terrace from 6 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays in December. Settle into a lounge chair under the stars, snuggle up with a heated blanket, and get ready for a classic holiday film. Ticket prices ($85 per person plus tax) include popcorn, hot chocolate, candy, a Weekapaug Inn souvenir mug and a choice of a great drive-in movie-inspired entree (a Gulden Farm burger, Gastros hot dog, Westerly Meat Packing Italian sausage or house-made veggie burger, served with housemade BBQ potato chips). Cocktails, beer and wine will also be available for purchase. Weekapaug Inn, 25 Spray Rock Road, Westerly, Rhode Island, oceanhouseevents.com The movies scheduled are: Friday, December 9—The Nutcracker and The Four Realms Saturday, December 10—The Family Stone Friday, December 16—Last Christmas Saturday, December 17—Elf Friday, December 23—Miracle on 34th Street
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Photos courtesy of weekapaug inn
Ocean House,
Watch Hill, Rhode Island You’ll be transported to the French Alps for a luxuriously cozy, private gondola dining experience at Ocean House’s North Lawn. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon apéro (with indulgent Valrhona hot chocolate and the choice of sweet or savory crêpes) or dinner surrounded by an enchanting winter wonderland. Each fully restored vintage ski gondola is outfitted with warm woods, fine textiles, chandeliers and sophisticated Le Creuset tableware. Ocean House, 1 Bluff Avenue, Watch Hill, Rhode Island,
Photo by Chip Riegel
oceanhouseri.com/gondolavillage
december 2022 47
American Fusion Cuisine
fresh, local, organic, sustainable, artistically driven ingredients
Casual Fine Dining
inviting & contemporary bar atmosphere, seasonal outdoor dining
Winter Nights at Stone Acres Farm, Stonington
The 85th Day Food Community, a Mystic-based restaurant group and catering company focused on building and supporting the region’s food community, brings back Winter Nights at Stone Acres Farm in Stonington for a second season, from December 7 to December 31, Wednesday through Saturday nights. The 85th Day Food Community, which includes the Oyster Club, Engine Room, The Port of Call and Dive, hosts seasonal holiday pop-up dinners at Stone Acres Farm’s historic Manor House, which is adorned with wreaths, garland, decorations and a roaring fireplace. The four-course holiday menu focuses on regional winter classics with choices throughout. A boutique wine list, small cocktail list and local beers are available à la carte. Reservations are available on Resy.com or by visiting the Oyster Club website, oysterclubct.com. Dinner is $78 per person. Stone Acres Farm, 393 North Main Street, Stonington, stoneacresfarm.com
JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR!
4-6PM WEDNESDAY NIGHTS BAR ONLY
Jacques Pépin Christmas & Birthday Party at Stone Acres Farm, Stonington
The 85th Day Food Community welcomes Jacques Pepin and his fam-
ily back to Stone Acres Farm for a favorite holiday tradition—a joint fundraiser for the Jacques Pépin Foundation and the Yellow Farmhouse Education Center—on Saturday, December 17, at 6 p.m. Enjoy an intimate dinner with Pépin, special guests, friends and family, curated and prepared by Chef Renee Touponce of Oyster Club. Visit oysterclubct.com for more details and pricing. Stone Acres Farm, 393 North Main Street, Stonington, stoneacresfarm.com
8 5 main “An outing to 85 Main can make you feel like you’ve been on vacation” - Worcester Telegram & Gazette
READERS’ CHOICE
BEST RAW BAR CO NNEC T I CU T MAGAZIN E
85 Main St. Putnam CT • www.85main.com • 860.928.1660 48
magazine
taste
Photos courtesy of chef Trish
Chef Trish, on location
Let Chef Trish design the perfect seasonal farm-to-
bread and fresh herb butter. Charcuterie platters and
table fine-dining experience pre-holiday, on location
desserts are priced separately. Not only will you enjoy
and just for you. You’ll be part of the process from the
your dish, but you’ll learn all about it too. Chef Trish
start as Chef Trish asks you what you and your guests
will explain tableside why it’s special and what about
like to eat, your favorite flavors and any dietary restric-
its ingredients makes it taste so different.
tions. She’ll then build customized dishes around your responses, whether standard plating or tapas. Each
For more information, contact Chef Trish via her website, cheftrish.com.
meal is either a three- or four-course meal with bakery
december 2022 49
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The Griswold Inn, Essex
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of the “Gris,”
where one can eat, drink and be merry throughout the year, but no more so than during the holidays. In Patricia Schultz’s travel classic, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, she describes Essex and The Griswold Inn as a “must” experience during this time of year. Dressed for the season in classic decor with wreaths and garland adorned with white lights, ribbons and bows, the Inn’s month-long festivities begin on December 1. The popular game menu, featuring venison, duck and wild boar, along with traditional holiday favorites like hot buttered rum, prime rib and Indian pudding will be presented. A children’s menu is also available. Enjoy a festive meal served by costumed waitstaff— think 18th-century tavern—as the Royal Court Singers perform seasonal classics table-side. Reservations are recommended. Call 860-767-1776 or book online through OpenTable. The Griswold Inn, 36 Main Street, Essex, griswoldinn.com
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Photo by caryn davis
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Mention this ad for $500 off a complete roof renovation! december 2022 51
taste | RESTAURANT LISTINGS Price range Breakfast Brunch Dinner
BAKERY
DEKE’S BAGELS
BARBECUE
NOBLE SMOKEHOUSE
Lunch Kids’ menu
Online ordering Take out
Delivery
Outdoor dining Alcohol served Call ahead
Open late
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AMERICAN
CHARLIE’S PLACE RESTAURANT
Open Tuesday–Sunday 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
26 West Main Street, Niantic; 860-739-2975; charliesplacerestaurant.com
GRUMPY CADDY GRILLE
Open Tuesday–Saturday 12–11 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 23 Saybrook Road, Essex; 959-265-8979; essexindoorgolf.com/the-grumpy-caddy
Deke’s Bagels sells fresh bagels, sandwiches, muffins, coffee, smoothies and more. Order online or come visit our Niantic or new Guilford location. Open 7 a.m.–2 p.m. 157 West Main Street, Niantic 1013 Boston Post Road, Guilford 860-739-9509; dekesbagels.com
GIULIANO’S BAKERY
ASIAN
WE LIVE, BREATHE AND SMOKE BARBECUE! With a culinary degree from Johnson & Wales University, our chef Christopher Lusk is excited to present our unique sauces and flavors to you. Open Wednesday–Thursday 12–7 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 12–8 p.m.; Sunday 12–7 p.m.; Monday 4–7 p.m.; Closed Tuesday 4 Roosevelt Avenue, Mystic 860-415-9564; noblesmokehouse.com
DINER
JAKE’S DINER ON STATE STREET
Open Monday–Tuesday 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Thursday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 7:30 a.m.–1 p.m.; Closed Wednesday 138 Bank Street, New London 860-574-9310; Find us on grubhub.com
PINK BASIL
FAMILY STYLE
GROTON TOWNHOUSE RESTAURANT
Our menu reflects the time-honored traditions of authentic Asian cuisine. With influences from Japan, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam, our dishes can transport you around the world in one bite. Open Monday–Friday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 12–9 p.m. 27 Coogan Boulevard, Building 3B, Mystic 860-245-4470; pinkbasilct.com
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Hometown bakery known for crispy bread, rolls and pastries. Also serving breakfast sandwiches. Come see us for our large diverse variety of baked goods. Open daily 5 a.m.–8 p.m. 284 Main Street, Niantic 860-739-5495; nianticbakery.com
We are a family-style restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. We also have a large assortment of fresh-baked pies and cakes daily. Open daily 6 a.m.–9 p.m. 355 CT-12, Groton; 860-449-0355 grotontownhouserestaurant.com
TOWN GRILL & PIZZERIA
Open Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 104 Beach Pond Road, Voluntown 860-376-3378; towngrillpizza.com
FARM-TO-TABLE
WHITECREST EATERY
Open Wednesday–Friday 4:30–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 4:30–9 p.m.; Closed Monday–Tuesday
ITALIAN
BELLA FIORE RESTAURANTE
Open Tuesday–Sunday 3-11 p.m.; Closed Monday
543 West Thames Street, Norwich; 860-892-4683; bellafiorerestaurant.com
BUON APPETITO RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA
VALENTINO’S RESTAURANT
Open Monday–Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. 725 Colonel Ledyard Highway, Ledyard; 860-464-8584; valentinos.webflow.io
JAPANESE
SAMURAI NOODLE
2 Bayview Avenue #14, Stonington 860-980-0984; whitecresteatery.com
FINE DINING
85 MAIN
Family-owned and operated Italian restaurant serving an eclectic mix of northern Italian dishes with the best service, food and presentation. Enjoy a true dining experience with a Tuscan flair. Open Tuesday & Wednesday 3–9 p.m.; Thursday 12–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 12–10 p.m.; Sunday 12–9 p.m.; Closed Monday 386 Norwich-Westerly Road, North Stonington; 860-535-2333; buonappetitoristorante.com
Authentic Japanese ramen noodle soup, Asian barbecue and sushi in downtown Mystic. Noodles are made fresh daily on site. Happy hour 4–6 every day. Open Monday–Friday 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 12–10 p.m. 27 West Main Street, Mystic 860-415-9317; samurainoodlemystic.com
CASTELLO OF NIANTIC
Fresh, contemporary fare, seasonally influenced. Fresh seafood, steaks and locally grown produce. High-quality sushi and full raw bar. Enjoy creative cocktails while dining on our patio, weather permitting. Open Sunday–Wednesday 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Thursday 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m. 85 Main Street, Putnam 860-928-1660; 85main.com
FUSION HISPANIC ASIAN
RICO CHOW
Open Tuesday–Friday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Saturday 12:30–9 p.m.; Closed Sunday–Monday 403 Williams Street, New London; 860-442-2469; rico-chow.square.site
Open Monday–Tuesday 5–9 p.m.; Wednesday–Sunday 12–9 p.m.
4 Sharon Lane, Niantic 860-227-1597; castelloofniantic.com
ILLIANO’S
Open Monday–Friday 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 257 West Town Street, Yantic; 860-889-6163; illianosgrill.com
LA LUNA RISTORANTE
Open Monday–Saturday 12–10 p.m.; Sunday 12–9 p.m.
MEXICAN
CUCKOO’S NEST
Monday–Thursday, 12–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 12–10 p.m.; Sunday, 12–8 p.m. 1712 Boston Post Rd. Old Saybrook; 860-399-8189; cuckoosnest.biz
MODERN
CINDER RESTAURANT
Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday Brunch 9 a.m.–3 p.m. 169 Main Street, Westerly, RI; 401-229-3377; cinderrestaurant.com
Holiday Inn, 35 Governor Winthrop Boulevard, New London; 860-326-7258; lalunanewlondon.com
december 2022 53
taste | RESTAURANT LISTINGS Price range Breakfast
Brunch
Dinner
WOODFELLAS PIZZA
Retired Armed Forces Association
Woodfellas opens second location in New London in the former space of 2 Wives! Serving quality food! Contact us regarding our Rolling Pizza Truck and New Mobile Salute Bar Cart! Open Wednesday–Friday 4–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 12–8 p.m.; Closed Monday–Tuesday
Open to the public every Friday. Enjoy chowder, lobster rolls, fish & chips and more! PLUS join us on the second Saturday each month from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. for breakfast. Open Friday 3–8 p.m.
Lunch
FRIDAY FISH FRY
Kids’ menu
Online ordering Take out
Delivery
Outdoor dining Alcohol served Call ahead
Open late
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PIZZA
184 PIZZERIA
45 Huntington St, New London; 860-447-9337 facebook.com/woodfellaspizzanl
Family-owned and operated, located in the Haley Brook Plaza, on Rte. 184. Check out the GRAB & GO fridge—varieties change daily. Pizzas, grinders, sandwiches, wraps, calzones. Open Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Closed Sunday
SEAFOOD
J & R SEAFOOD
135 Garfield Avenue, New London 860-447-0055; armedforcesretirees.org/home
THAMES LANDING OYSTER HOUSE
Open Monday 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Wednesday–Thursday 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Friday–Sunday 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Closed Tuesday 2 State Street, New London; 860-574-9232; thameslandingoysterhouse.com
2440 Gold Star Highway, Mystic 860-245-0800; 184pizzeria.com
SPORTS BAR
C.C. O’BRIEN’S PRIVATEERS PIZZA AND PROVISIONS
Open Wednesday–Sunday 12–8:30 p.m. 55 Main Street Essex; 860-662-4497; privateerspizza.com
TJ’S RESTAURANT AND PIZZERIA
Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
735 Boston Post Rd. Old Saybrook; 860-388-2400; tjsrestaurant.net
VETRANO’S RESTAURANT
Open Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 130 Granite Street, Westerly, RI; 860-535-8422; vetranosrestaurant.com
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J & R Seafood market is much more than fresh seafood. Enjoy market-made chowders, prepared meals, made-to-order food menu, catering options and raw bar events! Open daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m. 45 Williams Avenue, Mystic 860-415-4656; jrseafoodmarket.com
Friendly Irish sports cafe serving a variety of pub food. Award-winning burgers and wings with sports on 23 TVs! Pool and darts. 28 draft beers. Serving food Tuesday 3–9 p.m.; Wednesday–Thursday 11 a.m.–9.p.m.; Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday 12–9 p.m.; Bar open later 8 Mechanic Street, Pawcatuck 860-599-2034; ccobriens.com
HARP & DRAGON
Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–11 p.m. , Friday– Saturday 11 a.m.–12 a.m. 130 Main Street Norwich; 860-885-0147; hndpub.com
THE STUMBLE INNE
Local
Gift Card
Eats Promotion
Purchase a package of $20 restaurant gift cards and save 25% off face value! For details about these amazing local eateries, visit thedayimag.com/restaurantguide/2022
Package #1 - $75
Package #5 - $45
• Harp & Dragon Pub • Olde Tymes Restaurant • Illiano’s Grill • Town Grille & Pizzeria • The Brook Bar & Grill
• Vanilla Bean • 85 Main • Willibrew
Norwich, Yantic, Voluntown
Great food, happy hour, live music, pool tables, darts, trivia, karaoke. Nominated for best burger! Open Monday–Saturday 3 p.m.–12 a.m.; Sunday 1–10 p.m. 90 Halls Road, Old Lyme; 860-434-2342 facebook.com/thestumbleinne
THAI
KIN D THAI & SUSHI
Open Tuesday–Thursday 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4:30–9 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. , 4:30–9:30 p.m.; Saturday 12–9:30 p.m.; Sunday 12–9 p.m.; Closed Monday 123 State St, New London; 860-574-9097; kin-dthaiandsushi.com
Package #2 - $75
Griswold, Gales Ferry, Ledyard, Colchester • Tullis Taphouse • Valentino’s • Fireside Brick Oven • Sunnyside Diner • Fresca Tequila Bar & Grill
Package #3 - $75 East Lyme, Niantic
THE SPICE CLUB
• La Llorona Progressive Mexican Cuisine • Flanders Fish Market & Restaurant • Charlie’s Place • Rossa Negra • Castello of Niantic
Package #4 - $75 We serve healthy, home-cooked Thai, sushi and Pan-Asian cuisine in a casual, familyfriendly environment. Open since 2012. Open Monday–Friday 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. and 4–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 12–9 p.m. 239 Main Street, Niantic 860-451-8121; thespiceclubct.com
Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Essex • Kokomo’s Restaurant • TJ’s Restaurant & Pizzeria • Cuckoo’s Nest • Privateer Pizza & Provisions
Pomfret, Putnam, Willimantic
Package #6 - $75 New London
• Kin D Thai & Sushi • La Luna Ristorante • Jake’s Diner on State Street • Thames Landing Oyster House • Rico Chow
Package #7 - $75
Waterford, New London, Groton, Niantic • Caffe NV • Nana’s Byrek & Pizza • Woodfellas Pizza & Wings • New York Deli & Diner • The Spice Club
Package #8 - $75 Westerly, Stonington, North Stonington, Mystic
• Cinder Restaurant • Buon Appetito Ristorante & Pizzeria • Whitecrest Eatery • Rocks 21 • Noble Smokehouse • Grumpy Caddy
Package #9 - $60 Mystic, Westerly
• Angie’s Pizza & Pier 27 Lounge • Milagro Cafe • Friar Tuck’s Tavern • Vetrano’s Restaurant
Package #10 - $75 Preston, Norwich, Jewett City
• Village Pizza Restaurant • Bella Fiore • Prime 82 Restaurant & Bar • Canggio Restaurant • Uncle Kranky’s Café
how to purchase
ON-SALE: While supplies last!
Online: www.theday.com/localeats In-person: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 12 noon at The Day
Listed package prices do not include tax and shipping (if applicable).
december 2022 55
cover story
A
handmade
LOCAL ARTISANS CREATE GIFTS WITH A SENSE OF PLACE
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HOLIDAY story and photos By Winter Caplanson
W
inemakers seek to produce wine with a sense of place, an aspect known as terroir. Climate, soil, the terrain, the nearby plants and even traditions can be considered part of terroir, and they all influence a wine’s
flavor. But small-batch handcrafted goods can also be an expression of place, as is found in good winemaking. Ahead of the holiday season, I offer what I consider some of the best-in-class Connecticut handmade products—perfect for the “one for you, one for me” gift-giving I favor. My objective is to give items that are functional, unique and exceptionally made; my priorities are provenance, detail and excellence. These are a few of my favorite things:
december 2022 57
cover story
chocolates At Thorncrest Farm Milk House Chocolates in Goshen,
Kimberly and Clint Thorn and their sons Garret and Lyndon use
centuries-old European techniques to produce artisanal chocolates made with their own cows’ fresh milk, cream and butter. But here’s the magic: These are the only “single cow origin chocolates” on Earth. Each cow’s milk contributes its distinctive flavor profile to a specific confection. The buttery melt-in-your-mouth soft caramels (butter, coffee, lemon and more) are all made from the milk of one cow: a Jersey named Daydream. Dark Chocolate Double Espresso is made with Valor’s milk. Creedance’s milk is used in the Milk Chocolate Madagascar Vanilla. Fresh orchard fruits, garden herbs and honey are incorporated, like the raspberries in the Raspberry Cream White Chocolate, and mint from the garden flavoring Mr. Ives’s Mints. From Madras Curry Dark Chocolates to Milk Chocolate Hazelnut Gianduja Truff les, Hot Habanero Sea Salt Chocolate Bars, and Daydream’s Maple Caramels, over 122 unique chocolates are in rotation throughout the year, depending on the season and which cows are milking at that time. Shop at the farm, 280 Town Hill Road, Goshen, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 1 to 4 p.m., or online at milkhousechocolates.net with free shipping on orders over $75.
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At Bumble Ceramics in Sterling, Liv Jordan creates functional, hand-thrown pottery inspired by nature. Mushrooms, wildflowers, ferns, blueberries and monarchs adorn mugs, berry bowls and spoon rests. But her heart’s darlings are the pollinators, and she has a cult following for her “hive” pieces. Jordan’s hive mug echoes the shape of the bee skep, traditionally a dome-shaped structure made of coiled ropes of straw,
“beehive” pottery
one of the most iconic repres ent at ion s of b e eke epi n g. Honey-colored “drippy glaze” mimics the natural honey that
bees produce, and each vessel is hand-
carved with a honey bee. Bowls, planters
and cups round out the hive collection. All
are food, microwave, dishwasher and oven safe. Bumble Ceramics are sold at pop-up shops in the
studio shed and online at bumbleceramics.com.
december 2022 59
cover story
loomed potholders This timeless weaving project was a rite of passage for many of us growing up. The classic potholder loom is a simple tool designed to teach basic finger-weaving techniques. And who doesn’t love a thick colorful potholder that is a workhorse in the kitchen? At A Handmade House in Sherman, Karen Angelo utilizes traditional methods to make 100 percent cotton potholders with smartly bound edges and handy loops for hanging. Textile art techniques make for mix-and-match uniqueness: embroidered hearts, flowers and crosses; and patches of vintage fabric and antique quilt scraps that are my favorite elements. A minimalist at heart, Angelo weaves sturdy square 6-by-6-inch potholders in soothing solid colors like flax, willow green and robin’s egg blue. Woven stripe, lattice, cross and houndstooth check patterns elevate the look. Trivets are 8 inches by 8 inches, and natural indigo dye and vibrant moss green colors steal the show here. Her 5-by-7-inch baker’s rectangles are the perfect size for lifting hot loaf and sheet pans, muffin tins and casseroles. Shop online at ahandmadehousestudio.com.
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natural soap
Making good soap is both science and art. The perfect bar is moisturizing, has a rich and stable lather and lasts a long time. And if you prefer it to, as I do, soap should smell great. At Treefort Naturals in Colchester, Jessica Eveleigh sources ingredients locally from Connecticut farms and suppliers, choosing certified organics whenever possible. Pure essential oils are blended for a gorgeous scent, and no synthetic fragrances, dyes or preservatives are used. Treefort’s vegan-friendly soaps include scents like Grapefruit, Bergamot and Ginger Root with powdered ginger root adding a gentle texture; Peppermint Shea Butter, made with loads of moisturizing shea butter; and Pumpkin Turmeric Lavender Clove made with real pumpkin. Connecticut honey adds a soothing and gentle touch to the Honey, Oatmeal and Coconut Milk; and Carrot, Sweet Orange and Honey bars. Some soaps have a specific purpose, like the Dog Wash soap, the Sea Kelp and Nettle Leaf Shampoo Bar, and Garden Grit, a scrubby soap meant to clean the dirtiest of gardening hands. Exfoliating action comes from added pumice, apricot kernels, oatmeal and organic coffee grounds. I love the Wander & Wash Tin: 16 assorted single-use soap slices in a convenient take-anywhere tin, each slice perfect for one shower. Shop online or at Treefort’s Open Studio and events listed on their website treefortnaturals.com.
C.E.L. Fine Collectibles And Appraisers Working in the Service of Science and History
Specializing in ancient artifacts, ethnographics, & fossils Sunday-Weds 11-5pm • Thursday Closed • Fri-Sat 9-1pm
321 Main Street • Niantic, CT 06357
860.333.4260
december 2022 61
cover story
At Joli Sea Glass Jewelry in Franklin, silversmith Rachel Kirker Therrien sets sea glass from around the world into sterling bezels with stamped designs and silver appliqué. Cornflower blue from Spain, pink from California, rare teals from Iceland and “pirate black” from Puerto Rico, Therrien has built relationships with beach glass pickers over the years. In addition to glass, Joli pieces often incorporate “sea pottery,” which can be shards of an old plate, pitcher or bowl that have been tossed around by the ocean until smoothed and sea worn. I am crazy about the sea pottery Therrien sources from England, especially the black transferware bits. Browse her bracelets, stacker bangles, hair forks, pendants and rings, or turn sea glass
sea glass jewelry
you’ve found into wearable art (Joli accepts custom commissions).
Shop online at joliseaglassjewelry.com.
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holiday cards I want to live in the charming, whimsical world depicted
paper. Wisnewski’s colorful holiday cards celebrate
in Andrea Wisnewski’s greeting cards. At Running Rabbit
sheep in snowy pastures, corgis, cottages with wood
Press in Storrs, she is illustrator, printmaker, author and
smoke curling from chimneys, and skating parties.
artist. Wisnewski has incorporated old- and new-school
Many of these designs are also available as handmade
techniques to refine her own method of wood-press print-
watercolor prints. Wisnewski’s children’s books are
ing, and also utilizes the 20th-century art of linocut, in
offered on her website, signed by the author, as are home
which an image is carved on a sheet of linoleum to create a
goods like Christmas ornaments, catnip mice and laven-
relief surface for printing.
der sachets.
Cats, dogs, birds, farm animals and the New England
Running Rabbit Press cards are stocked at the
landscape feature prominently in her work. At $4.50
Willimantic Food Co-op, or shop online at runningrabbit.biz
each, Running Rabbit Press’ 5-by-7-inch greeting cards
with free shipping on orders over $100.
are affordable works of art, beautifully printed on thick Winter Caplanson is a writer and commercial photographer specializing in food, agriculture and handcraft. Follow her on social platforms as Connecticut Food and Farm.
december 2022 63
looking back LOCAL & REGIONAL
PA S T T O P R E S E N T
The Stone House, Deep River. p hoto by Glenn DeMott
HIS TO RY
Steamboat wreck visible in old saybrook cove
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looking back
A river’s ghosts in Old Saybrook REMAINS OF 19TH-CENTURY STEAMBOAT STILL SERVE IN NORTH COVE
The Granite State underway in the early 1880s. The 276-foot sidewheel steamboat was launched in 1853 as a rival to the steamboat City of Hartford, and later owned by William Goodspeed, the steamboat magnate, who built the Victorian Opera House on the Connecticut River in East Haddam in 1876. Library of Congress photo
T
By Erik Hesselberg
More than just transportation, a trip on a river
he wreck is visible at low tide when cormo-
steamer was an adventure itself. Steamboats were
rants perch on seaweed-covered timbers.
fairy palaces of the imagination, with elegant saloons
Jutting out into the Connecticut River from
and staterooms carpeted in thick velvet pile and rose-
North Cove, it looks like an old wharf. But
wood furniture, upholstered damask and plush. Many
this rotting hull slowly merging with the river
steamboats had orchestras on board for dancing, and
mud was once among the Connecticut River’s most el-
the food was on par with the finest hotels.
egant river steamboats—the Granite State, a 276-foot
The Connecticut River boasted about 60 large
wooden sidewheel steamship that was destroyed in
steamboats, which operated from 1815 until 1931,
a tragic fire.
when the last vessels, Hartford and Middletown,
Steamboats evoke images of Mark Twain and the Mississippi, but the churning vessels also domi-
churned away from the dock and headed downriver, never to return.
nated transportation on Long Island Sound and the
The principal run was Hartford to New York.
Connecticut River, carrying passengers, mail and
Departing in the afternoon, the boats stopped at all
goods on regularly scheduled runs.
the river landings, before steaming out past the Old
december 2022 65
looking back Saybrook breakwater, into the blackness of Long
serious mishaps, cutting short their careers. For
Island Sound.
Granite State, the end came on the morning of
It was about six hours to Execution Rock, on the
May 18, 1883, as the steamboat was approaching
Sound’s western end, and then on down New York’s
Goodspeed Landing. A lamp ignited her tinder-dry
East River, arriving at dawn at Pier 24, “Peck’s Slip,”
woodwork, and the aging vessel went up like a
in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge. The trip took
match.
11 to 12 hours, depending on fog, or the occasional
Four people died, including Mrs. Clifford Main,
groundings. In that case the boats waited for the tide
a bride whom, we are told, leaped over the side, “in
to carry them off.
her husband’s embrace.” There was also a German
Connecticut River steamboating reached a sort of
immigrant, and a portly gentleman named Graham,
apogee before and after the Civil War, when three
whose body was not immediately recovered and who
palatial side-wheelers, City of Hartford, State of New
was referred to in newspaper articles as “the miss-
York and the Granite State plied the route between
ing fat man.”
Hartford and New York.
But perhaps the most tragic death was Granite
While one boat was churning away from the
State’s cook, an African-American named Nicholas
wharf at the foot of State Street in Hartford at 4
Jackson. He could not swim but was compelled to
p.m., another vessel was backing out of Peck’s Slip
jump overboard to escape the flames. His body was
at the same hour. Passing one another at midnight
found the next day. However, when crewmen were
on Long Island Sound, the stately vessels acknowl-
carrying him ashore, they were stopped by East
edged one another with their steam whistles—one
Haddam selectmen, who claimed the act “would
long and one short blast, the Hartford & New York
necessitate a burial at town expense.” Only when
Transportation Company’s salute. Charles Dickens rode a Connecticut River steamboat. So did Mark Twain, staying up all night on the deck of the Middletown, puffing his pipe and watching the moonlit shores slip past. But the most famous traveler was surely the former major general in the American Revolution, the old Marquis de Lafayette, who steamed down from Hartford on the Oliver Ellsworth one drizzly September day in 1824. Despite the dismal weather, thousands lined the riverbanks cheering and waving handkerchiefs, as the steamboat, bearing Lafayette and his entourage, made its way to Middletown. Here, an open carriage drawn by four white horses, whisked the general through city streets, amid the clanging of church bells and the thundering of cannons. Sadly, grim reality often intrudes upon such happy scenes. Wooden paddle steamers, lightly constructed and with cast-iron boilers, were especially prone to disaster. Many were blown to bits, along with their passengers. Another hazard was submerged logs, known as snags, which could tear a hole in a steamboat’s bottom. Connecticut River’s big three all suffered
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Steamboats were fairy palaces of the imagination, with elegant saloons and staterooms carpeted in thick velvet pile
dour town officials were assured the steamboat
of the missing fat man who was lost on the
company would foot the bill would they consent
steamer Granite State, which sunk at Goodspeed’s
to allow Jackson to be brought ashore for burial.
Landing, were discovered last Saturday by work-
While they were weighing the matter, Jackson’s
men who have been taking out coal from the
body was left floating in the water, “tied to a rope.”
wreck. Portions of the skull, vertebra, arm, fin-
The loss of the Granite State bankrupted the
ger-bones, the setting of a large oblong shaped
Hartford & New York Transportation Company.
cameo ring, and the remains of a gold watch, a long
The company was so broke, it could not afford to
link plated chain…were found.”
have the destroyed steamer towed downriver, and
It was the gold watch chain and the cameo ring,
for several months the ghostly hull could be seen
noted previously by several passengers, which
awash on a shoal off Lord’s Island, just down from
helped identify the remains as probably those of
where it caught fire. Eleven trotting horses aboard
Mr. Graham, the “missing fat man.”
the steamer were burned, and for months, the odor of charred flesh hung in the air. Finally, Granite State was towed to the mouth of
Erik Hesselberg has been writing about the Connecticut
the Connecticut River, where the old steamboat
River for 30 years. He was an environmental reporter for
served its final duty as a breakwater, to prevent
the Middletown Press, and executive editor of Shore Line
the silting up of North Cove.
Newspapers in Guilford. His book, Night Boat to New York:
As workmen were getting the steamboat ready
Steamboats on the Connecticut, 1815-1931, published
for her final trip downriver, they made a grim dis-
earlier this year, is available through Globe/Pequot Press and
covery. The New York Times wrote: “The remains
wherever books are sold.
Exquisite Miniatures Hand Made in USA
Santa’s Christmas Tweets
Stollen Kisses
The wreck of the steamboat Granite State as it appears today on a shoal near the entrance to Old Saybrook’s North Cove on the Connecticut River. Photo by Laura Parker Gray
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snowy Stars Hollow perfect for streaming
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turning pages book reviews
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Stream a Gilmore Girls winter marathon
T
By Kitty Williams
hough the fall-hued Gilmore Girls opening credits suit it perfectly for fall binge-watching, there is nothing quite like Stars Hollow in the winter. Stars Hollow is a fictional town in Connecticut where the show’s titular characters, Lorelai and her daughter Rory Gilmore, live their beautifully eccentric lives. Watching these wintery episodes will feel like stepping into a snowglobe or sitting beside a warm fire. All seven seasons are available
for streaming on Netflix. (The following contains minor spoilers.)
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trending 1. Season 1, Episode 10 (“Forgiveness & Stuff”) Though this episode begins with Lorelai and Rory working together with the Stars Hollow community on a Christmas pageant rehearsal, they are experiencing a lot of mother-daughter ten-
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Stars Hollow from
CONNECTICUT
sion that is lingering from previous episodes. However, the arguments and grudges that seemed to be important at the time are suddenly forgotten when a family health emergency takes place.
2. Season 2, Episode 10 (“The Bracebridge Dinner”) We are all familiar with creating elaborate plans during the winter months that are scrapped because of bad weather. In this episode, Lorelai and Sookie and the rest of the Independence Inn have been working on an elaborate Elizabethanthemed festival for out-of-town visitors. When the visitors can’t make it because of snow, the town comes together to take part in the festivities together, romantic horse-drawn carriage rides and all.
3. Season 3, Episode 10 (“That’ll Do, Pig”) Though it is hard to look past the love triangle Rory finds herself in and the chaos of Richard Gilmore’s birthday celebrations, the Stars Hollow Winter Festival is a welcome backdrop for this episode. This idyllic town is at its best when the community, full of eccentric characters, comes together for a quirky festival in the snow, with twinkling lights all around.
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4. Season 4, Episode 11 (“In the Clamor and the Clangor”) In Gilmore Girls, the most important holiday (at least for Lorelai) is the first snowfall of the winter season. Now that Rory has entered college, she misses the first snowfall with her mother but gets to enjoy some time at home for this episode full of town drama. Interestingly, this episode features a cameo from Oscar-winner Rami Malek in his first credited acting role.
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m adobe stock
6. Season 6, Episode 12 (“Just Like Gwen & Gavin”) This episode is full of conflicts between Lorelai and Luke as well as some heavy disagreements at the Yale Daily News that Rory has to handle; however, it ends with the Stars Hollow Winter Festival in which Rory and Lorelai come together for the small-town tradition, which brings them more joy than they would sometimes care to admit.
7. Season 7, Episode 11 (“Santa’s Secret Stuff”) While Rory is in London for Christmas with her boyfriend, Lorelai puts a pause on Christmas until she returns. This episode is an exploration of how the holidays evolve as children grow up and build their own lives away from home. The good news is that Rory always seems
5. Season 5, Episode 11 (“Women of Questionable Morals”) At the beginning of this episode, Lorelai is certain snow is on the way. She drags Luke out of bed to come outside and smell the air and listen to her monologue about how much she loves snow. Though Luke can be a curmudgeon and hates the cold, the gift he presents to Lorelai at the end of the episode proves how much he listens and cares.
to gravitate back to Stars Hollow and the Gilmores will always find a way to celebrate.
Y december 2022 71
trending | TURNING PAGES
Curl up with a good Christmas book By Betty J. Cotter ong before the Hallmark Channel made an industry out of Yuletide movies and TV carried A Christmas Story 24 hours a day, the holidays meant a few classic films: various iterations of A Christmas Carol, the 1940s comedy Christmas in Connecticut starring Barbara Stanwyck, and Miracle on 34th Street. In the attic library of our wooden elementary school, the teachers threaded an ancient copy of The Littlest Angel through the school projector. The distorted sound was rarely in sync with the frames, and Johnny Whitaker as the title angel had a blurred appearance, as though viewed through Vaseline. How many times had they shown this movie? So often we were familiar with the story yet, in those draconian 1960s and ‘70s school days, we considered any screening a rare treat. No one watched It’s a Wonderful Life, and I did not learn of its existence until decades later. Because of copyright issues, the film was kept out of TV syndication for years. But how well I remember the harrowing TV movie Home for the Holidays, a murder mystery starring Julie Harris, Sally Field, Eleanor Parker and Jill Haworth. Walter Brennan invites his three daughters home for Christmas so they can murder his wife (Harris). This chilled me to the bone at 12 years old. This was during the golden age of the TV movie, when movie stars showed up in dramas that tackled contemporary issues. No Christmas-tree-farm “rom-coms” back then. To watch a movie, any movie, was an occasion in our house. Mostly, we read books. And that is how I came to be introduced to the March family (“Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents”) as well as the wacky characters in the memoirs of Jean Shepherd, the writer behind the 1983 movie that has become a holiday classic, A Christmas Story. With some eggnog at your elbow, enjoy some of these books—new and classic—that take place during the Christmas season.
Wanda Hickey’s Night of Golden Memories and Other Disasters by Jean Shepherd (Crown, reissued 1976) Not every story in Shepherd’s riotously funny collection takes place at Christmas, but this is the book for you if you want to understand Ralphie, his family and all the nutty residents of A Christmas Story. The ill-fated bully Scut Farkas and the Bumpus hounds (of the infamous turkey incident) are introduced here in Shepherd’s droll narration. The movie does not exactly follow Shepherd’s account, but it perfectly captures his wry outlook.
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A Nantucket Christmas by Nancy Thayer (Ballantine Books, 2013) If you like the sort of story that wraps up tidily in a red holiday bow, you could do worse than this family drama by Nancy Thayer. Thayer has written dozens of novels since 1979, and she has adapted her style to meet the commercial tastes of the moment. A newly remarried woman finds herself in conflict with her adult stepdaughter. A climactic blizzard is inevitable, and there’s a nice turn in the point of view of a stray dog. (Thayer’s novel Let it Snow was made into a forgettable Hallmark movie, Nantucket Noel, last year.)
Christmas Bells by Jennifer Chiaverini (Dutton, 2015) The well-known Christmas carol, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day,” was adapted from a poem written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. In this engrossing historical novel, Chiaverini pairs the present-day travails of a music teacher preparing a children’s church concert with the holiday season of 1863, when the widowed Longfellow reflects on the strife of the Civil War, in which his son has been wounded. The audio version is expertly narrated by the author.
Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton (Penguin Classics, 2005, and other editions) If you were forced to read this gothic tale in high school, it may have left a bad aftertaste. Read in 2022, Wharton’s classic New England story crackles with drama and sex. She unspools the mystery of a love triangle from the point of view of a new resident in the snowy town of Starkfield, Massachusetts, taking the reader on a wild sleigh ride quite unlike anything you might see in a Hallmark movie.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (various editions) Hear me out on this one. Yes, the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge is a tired one, made and remade in theaters and on screens every season. We’ve had female Scrooges and Muppet Scrooges, animated Scrooges and Old West Scrooges. Without the story, we wouldn’t have had It’s a Wonderful Life or The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. But when was the last time you read the Dickens novella? It remains as relevant to our high-tech society as it was to Victorian London when it was published in 1843. Perhaps there are those who see the skinflint’s transformation as sentimental claptrap, but as long as the possibility exists to turn the heart of a misanthrope to one of charitable warmth, A Christmas Carol will endure.
december 2022 73
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The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley (Penguin Books, 2020) is just the tonic for our times. This story about a green notebook that brings together six strangers is a reminder that putting your real self out there isn’t quite as scary as it seems. In fact, it looks a lot like happiness. $17 Bank Square Books, 53 West Main Street, Mystic; 860-536-3795; banksquarebooks.com
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These unique 300-piece bird-shaped puzzles come in a variety of shapes—including a bluebird, blue jay, cardinal, blue heron, eagle, goldfinch, hummingbird, owl, parrot and woodpecker. Also available are 350-piece flower-shaped puzzles as well as 100-piece puzzles for kids. Each puzzle comes with an educational, fun facts insert. $16.99 Wild Birds Unlimited, 190 Flanders Road, Niantic; 860-739-7302; niantic.wbu.com
This festive premium seed blend attracts a wide variety of birds with high-energy sunflower seeds, suet nuggets, peanuts, almonds and cranberries. It can be offered in a variety of feeders—including a tube, hopper, platform or tray. A perfect holiday gift for the bird lover on your list. $11.99 Wild Birds Unlimited, 190 Flanders Road, Niantic; 860-739-7302; niantic.wbu.com
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C. THE AUTHENTICITY PROJECT: A NOVEL
Évocateur’s collection of alluring, art-driven jewelry is handmade in Connecticut and reflects a love of the traditional and ancient, blended with the modern and contemporary. This one-of-a-kind cuff is wrapped in 22K gold leafing and adorned with stunning imagery from Frida Kahlo’s Self-portrait with Monkey (1938). $348 Water Street Jewelers, 61 Whitfield Street, Guilford; 203-533-5062; waterstreetjewelers.net
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D. “I AM” PUZZLES
Local holiday gift ideas perfect for December!
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The square bottom created by the seams of this sturdy bag is perfect for any sewing or knitting project, a trip to the farmers market or carrying a box of pastries. The no-sew leather handles are easily attached with no hardware needed. 100% linen and safe to machine-wash and dry. $43.50 Shoreline Sewing Machine Co., 22 Bayview Avenue, Studio #91, Stonington; 860-338-1832; shorelinesewingmachine.com
F. PROVIDENCE WHALING SHIP WOODEN MODEL KIT
Relive the adventures of Moby Dick with a wooden replica of the 19th century New England whaling ship the Providence. The 1:25 scale model kit contains high-precision laser cut boards of fine wood, brass, cast iron and fabric. Upon completion, the whaling ship model is about 9.5”H × 12”L × 3”W. $79.99 Lee’s Toy & Hobby, 935 Poquonnock Road, Groton; 860-445-4411; leestoyandhobby.com
G. CARDINAL KEEPSAKE BELLS
These cute cardinal bells are perfect for hanging on your Christmas tree to remind yourself of a loved one’s passing or on a child’s bedroom door to warn you if they wake up during the night. Each bell comes with a card that says, “Cardinals will appear when angels are near.” $15 Wild Birds Unlimited, 190 Flanders Road, Niantic; 860-739-7302; niantic.wbu.com
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Slip into the most amazing cozy slippers this holiday season. They make a wonderful gift with different styles and colors to choose from, such as a classic cable knit and a ballerina pom pom. $28-$44 Grace, 46 Pennsylvania Avenue, Niantic; 860-739-4333; shopatgrace.com
december 2022 75
SENIORS
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WELLNESS
Union Station, New London. P hoto by Jack Knox
FA MILIE S
life cycles
childhood wonder in The Nutcracker
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using music to heal and soothe
life cycles
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december 2022 77
life cycles
A Christmas rite of passage
BALLET SCHOOL’S ANNUAL THE NUTCRACKER RETURNS TO GARDE STAGE
I
By Bridget Shirvell still remember the white coat I wore the first time I saw The Nutcracker. The excitement of getting dressed up, the treasure hunt of finding our seats, the anticipation as the lights went down and the the-
ater darkened—the experience helped create a love and appreciation for the arts I still carry with me decades later. Attending The Nutcracker is a Christmas rite of passage for many families. “Nutcracker means holiday,” says Eastern Connecticut Ballet Artistic Director Gloria Govrin. “It speaks to both children and adults of their dreams.” The ballet company has been busy preparing for this year’s production of The Nutcracker for a few months. About 100 dancers between the ages of 6 and 18, along with guest artists Unity Phelan and Indiana Woodward from the New York City Ballet, will perform the holiday classic December 10 and 11 at New London’s Garde Arts Center. “The kids, they’re buzzing,” says Govrin. “They’re looking to see if their name is up on the board and if they have a costume fitting. They’re spending a lot more time together than they did in the past two years (because of COVID-19). You can see the excitement happening in the school.” First performed in December 1892, the ballet follows Clara, who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve and wages a battle against the evil Mouse King. It is loosely adapted from E. T. A. Hoffmann’s The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, although that’s a much darker story.
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LEFT New York City Ballet guest artists Unity Phelan, right, and Adrian Danchig-Waring in a past presentation of Eastern Connecticut Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Photo by Thomas Giroir Photography ABOVE Eastern Connecticut Ballet sets The Nutcracker in 1850s New London, with a backdrop featuring scenes from the city’s seafaring past. Photo courtesy of ECB BELOW More than 100 performers, including dozens of children, participate in the production each year. Photo courtesy of ECB
december 2022 79
life cycles While the classic The Nutcracker is set in Germany,
elaborate costumes and performers close to their own
like many ballet companies and schools, the ECB has
age, can help them learn to appreciate the arts while
given their production a unique twist. Set in 1850s New
also inspiring their creativity.
London, ECB’s Nutcracker celebrates the seafaring his-
“We live in a very strained world right now,” says
tory of Connecticut with scenery depicting tall ships in
Govrin. “There are a lot of things that are happening
port, the New London Custom House, Whale Oil Row,
that are kind of scary, and if you imagine yourself as
lighthouses and a sea captain’s Victorian home.
a child for two hours or an hour and half you can go
This year, the performance is especially joyful as
and sit in a beautiful theater and watch children doing
it’s the first time since 2019 and the beginning of the
what they’re doing, I think it makes a huge impression
COVID-19 pandemic that the full play will be per-
on children.”
formed. In 2020, the production was canceled, and in
Studies show that exposing children to the theater
2021, the company put on a hybrid live and video show.
has benefits beyond entertainment, whether as a par-
For many children, The Nutcracker is their first intro-
ticipant or audience member, including enhancing col-
duction to theater and classical music and the show,
laborative skills, increasing vocabulary and teaching
with Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s beautiful score, colorful and
patience and empathy. The ECB provides as many as 500 free tickets annually th roug h va r ious com mun it y-ba s e d or ga n i zat ion s. In addition to its public performances, the ballet school presents two free shows for 2,700 schoolchildren from 35 public, magnet and private elementary and middle schools, as well as for homeschool groups from New London County. ECB faculty members also host interactive in-school educational assemblies at several schools in the area. “It introduces them to classical music, with one of the most beauti f u l scores ever w r itten,” says ECB President Lise
left The ECB presents free shows to hundreds of Connecticut schoolchildren each year. The Nutcracker is a great way to introduce kids as young as 3 to classical music, ballet and theater. Photo courtesy of ECB RIGHT A scene from The Nutcracker, which tells the story of a young girl who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve. Photo courtesy of ECB
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Reardon about bringing young children to see The Nutcracker. “It’s very moving.” While every child is different, if your child can sit still for the performance (although you are
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likely to see plenty of children dancing in the aisles) they’re old enough to see The Nutcracker. Govrin and Reardon say age 3 is usually a good age to bring a
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G i f t o f B e a u t y C h r i s t m a s
child to see their first performance of The Nutcracker. “It’s art,” says Govrin, “and any kind of art is beneficial to the human soul.” Eastern Connecticut Ballet’s The Nutcracker takes place December 10 at 1:30 and 7 p.m., and December 11 at 1:30 p.m. at the Garde Arts Center in New London. Tickets are on sale at gardearts.org.
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december 2022 81
life cycles
music the healing power of
MUSICIAN, SOCIAL WORKER PAUL CLARK PROMOTES WELLNESS THROUGH HIS SONGS
O
By Terry Wolfisch Cole
ne a f ter noon when Pau l Cla rk was a
82
the first of dozens of such occurrences he would experience over the next two decades.
22-year-old student-athlete at the Univer-
“That was the start of an event and experience
sity of New England in Biddeford, Maine,
that has changed the course of my life forever,”
he woke up thinking he was dead.
Clark says.
“I was in a room,” Clark recalls. “I was
Newly diagnosed with Bipolar 1 Disorder, a men-
lying flat, and stiff sheets were pulled up to my neck.”
tal illness characterized by prolonged manic,
His confusion grew when a nurse walked in and
depressive, or mixed episodes, Clark sought a
asked if he was ready to see his family. Of course
way to cope. He retreated to his parents’ home to
Clark wasn’t dead; he had been hospitalized after a
recover. A lifelong music fan and musician, he spent
very public manic episode on the streets of Boston,
hours listening to the songs he loved. The effect of
magazine
Diagnosed with a form of bipolar disorder in his 20s, Paul Clark found relief and healing in music. Now a licensed clinical social worker and a professional musician based in Quaker Hill, Clark shares what he’s learned with others. Photo courtesy of the paul clark project
In those early days at his parents’ house, when he was feeling low, Clark, who grew up in Middlebury, would listen to songs that evoked feelings of happiness and joy. Feeling good, he’d pick a mixtape that helped him sustain those positive emotions. Cultivating those practices helped him feel optimistic and stable. He continues them to this day. “I have been through many adverse situations,” he says, “and music is the one constant that’s always been there for me on good days and bad days. It’s a therapeutic process for me.” Clark’s experience is backed by science. In a study titled “The Effect of Music on the Human Stress Response,” researchers exposed participants to one of three kinds of preparation prior to a challenging psychological exam, then tested their stress levels. Some participants listened to relaxing music, others listened to the sound of rippling water, and the rest received no sound. The study concluded that listening to music had a demonstrable impact on subjects’ measurable physical stress responses, and that those who had listened to music tended to be less stressed and recover more quickly than those who did not. M ich ael Shelby, a c ou n s elor at Pl a n Be Counseling in Hartford, concurs with the findings. “Music and rhythm and beats are inside all of us as humans,” says Shelby. “Our brains are biologically wired to sync up with the repeating sound the music on his wellness was unmistakable. He
patterns we hear and enter a calming trance-like
soon shifted the focus of his studies to mental
state that improves our mood and can create a
health and opted for a career path as a licensed
more positive outlook without any substances.
clinical social worker.
Music increases dopamine levels in the brain, and
Based in Quaker Hill, Clark has since worked
just makes us feel better and connected.”
with hundreds of clients as they’ve struggled to
For Clark, who bought his first guitar at the age
find peace and happiness, but that’s not the only
of 16 with money he’d earned as a lifeguard, music
way he helps others. In addition to his work as an
is also a creative outlet.
LCSW, he’s also a professional musician whose
Shortly after his first hospitalization, he knew
mission is to promote mental wellness through
he wanted to do more than just listen to music. He
the healing power of music.
would serve others by bringing more songs into
december 2022 83
life cycles the world. He began by setting mantras—positive
Soon, he was composing songs inspired by the
affirmations that he’d repeat to himself throughout
work of his favorite musicians, Bob Weir and Jerry
the day—to music.
Garcia of the Grateful Dead, Trey Anastasio of Phish,
Clark says, “Initially songwriting came out of my problems, but I quickly realized that it made me feel good. My true north pointed toward music.”
Elvis Costello and others. Clark now has a large catalog of what he calls, “medicine music”—songs he deliberately designed
“Music is the one constant that’s always been there for me on good days and bad days.” PAUL CLARK
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to spread his messages of positivity and well-being. His
When asked how others can use music to promote their personal sense of well-being, Clark has some sug-
latest song is titled, “Medicine for the Mind.” He says, “I believe that to be true. There is music for
gestions. He recommends listening to your favorite song
every mood. It takes you to a time and place in your life.
mindfully, picking out one instrument or voice and fol-
It evokes emotions, memories and sensations.”
lowing it through the song.
As the holiday season approaches, Clark finds himself nostalgic for the music his family listened to every year
Another good method is to combine listening and journaling. “Play music while you write,” he says, “or listen to a
as they decorated their Christmas tree. “My dad loved Peter, Paul and Mary,” says Clark. “Every year, he’d play the song ‘Light One Candle’ while
song and journal about how it makes you feel. Go back to that when you need a boost.”
we decorated the tree. Some of those lyrics, like ‘Light
Clark concludes by sharing that music has helped him
one candle for those who are suffering’ and ‘We have
to see through the darkness and find comfort from within.
come this far always believing. Don’t let that light go
Through his songs, he welcomes others to do the same.
out’ are still really meaningful to me.” Clark is looking forward to continu-
Paul Clark performs live with his friend Bryan Tyler on
ing the tradition by
Radio Cave (radiocave.org/paul-clark) at 7:30 p.m. on
playing the song for
the fourth Friday of every month. His music is available
h i s ow n ch i ld ren
on Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud and on his website,
this year.
thepaulclarkproject.com.
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explorations D AY T R I P S
G E TA W AY S
Holiday Lights Spectacular at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence, RI. Photo courtesy of roger williams park zoo
T R AV E L T I P S
beautiful vistas on winter hikes
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family events for the holiday season
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Cerulean Spa, where the river meets the sea
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december 2022 87
explorations
What’s not to hike? YOU MIGHT BE SURPRISED BY THE VISTAS, SOLITUDE OF A COLD WINTER TREK
T
By Peter Marteka
he sound of waves lapping along a beach filled with slipper shells. A path through a forest where white pine boughs whisper as a gentle wind passes high above. A cardinal flitting through the high grass of a meadow, pausing
on a cedar tree to look around before disappearing into the woods. Just another day hiking in Connecticut—except it is 30 degrees with a wind chill in the 20s. Welcome to the world of winter hiking. It’s not for everyone, but what’s not to like about it? There are plenty of benefits. There’s the solitude. There are plenty of places to park. It’s a chance to burn calories during a time of the year when we tend to eat too much and sit too often. So here’s a look at some places to escape those win-
Most people know Eolia and Harkness Memorial
ter doldrums, burn some calories and realize winter
State Park during a spring or summer visit with the
in southeastern Connecticut is not so bad. Really.
gardens in full bloom surrounded by a huge swath of
HARKNESS MEMORIAL STATE PARK, WATERFORD
88
green lawn. It’s quite a different view during the winter with the gardens slumbering and the frozen lawn stretching out to the shimmering Long Island Sound.
If you’ve ever wanted to imagine you owned a
Especially during a snowy, cold winter, the sight
42-room mansion on Long Island Sound and had it
of open water and sand awakens all the senses and
all to yourself, spend a cold winter day walking the
summer suddenly seems not so far away. The board-
grounds of Eolia after a snowfall.
walk still invites visitors to take in the charms of Long
magazine
Rocks jut out into Long Island Sound on a winter afternoon at Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme. P hoto by Peter Marteka
Island Sound and there are still thousands of slip-
was never built. The 45-acre Coogan Farm Nature
per shells to collect.
and Heritage Center is the last parcel of undevel-
Route 1 to Route 156 in the center of Waterford. Take a left on Route 213 (Great Neck Road) and follow several miles to the park entrance.
COOGAN FARM, MYSTIC
oped farmland between downtown Mystic, Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium. At the top of a hill, there are views across the Mystic River. The trails around the farm pass by enormous trees that once shaded farm animals
The farm is a step-back-in-time type of place
and are an amazing sight with all the leaves off the
with fields bounded by huge stone walls and a
branches. Up for a longer hike? A greenway fea-
ghostly foundation of a Victorian mansion that
tures 10 miles of trails through the farm, Denison
december 2022 89
explorations Pequotsepos Nature Center and property owned by
with the branches of evergreens providing a can-
the Avalonia Land Conservation Inc.
opy and almost tunnel-like feel as you walk through
Take I-95 to Exit 90 and head south along Route 27 or Greenmanville Avenue. Look for the parking area on the left after passing Elm Grove Cemetery.
THE GLACIAL PARK BOULDER TRAIN, LEDYARD
The Glacial Park boulder train is a remark-
able sight, especially in the winter when the remnants of Connecticut’s glacial past are on full dis-
Take Route 184 or New London Turnpike to Route 201 or North Stonington Road. Follow 2 miles and look for the trailhead sign. There is parking along both sides of North Stonington Road.
ROCKY NECK STATE PARK, EAST LYME
Sure, a day at the beach isn’t a winter saying,
play. The area showcases what happened when
but why not? One of the most popular parks in the
the Wisconsin Glacier plunged south 13,000 years
summer, Rocky Neck attracts hardy winter beach-
ago and retreated, creating the “Ledyard Moraine”
goers, too, as the white sands and the Ellie Mitchell
with thousands of boulders of all shapes and sizes.
Pavilion are still stunning. And a trip to an over-
A mile-long trail marked with blue blazes takes vis-
look known as “Tony’s Nose” is an attractive desti-
itors through the heart of the boulder field with a
nation with the leaves off the trees and a command-
lot of climbing, hopping and scrambling over the
ing vista across Long Island Sound.
boulders. A view from a high point is breathtaking,
The park is located along Route 1.
with boulders strewn across the woods as far as the eye can see. Take Route 12 to Route 214, or Stoddards Wharf Road. Take a right on Avery Hill Road Extension just past Avery Cemetery. Take a left on Whalehead Road and look for the parking area on the left under transmission lines.
HOFFMAN EVERGREEN PRESERVE, NORTH STONINGTON
If you ever wanted a taste of what winter is like
in Canada, make your way to the 198 acres that Robert Hoffman once called home. When he owned the property, he planted more than 100,000 evergreen seedlings, including larch, white pine, spruce and red cedar to try to duplicate his love for the Canadian landscape. The trail system is easy to hike and is a winter wonderland, especially after a snowfall, with paths passing through multiple pine groves lined with stone walls. Trails pass along old wooded roads right Snow at Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford. photo by Patricia Sammataro opposite right Large trees and stone walls line the fields at Coogan Farm Nature and Heritage Center in Mystic. photo by Peter Marteka
90
the cathedral of pines.
magazine
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december 2022 91
explorations
’Tis the sea FOR HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN
A
By Jenn McCulloch
s the countdown to the holidays begins, trees are being decorated, menorahs are being set up, lights are adorning homes and lists are being made. No matter how your family celebrates the season, there are activities that will put you in the spirit. Many towns have their own celebrations in December, including parades, tree-lighting
ceremonies and more. If you’re looking for even more family fun, we’ve got you covered.
From visits with Santa to twinkling lights; enjoying a Christmas-themed play at the theater to view-
ing artists’ takes on holiday trees; and even stepping back in time to celebrate the holidays in the 19th century, there are events nearby that will check every box.
p hoto courtesy of Mystic Seaport Museum
92
magazine
son
CHRISTMAS IN CONNECTICUT AT THE GOODSPEED
Through December 30; Goodspeed Opera House, 6 Main Street, East Haddam; goodspeed.org WHAT TO EXPECT: Goodspeed invites you to spend a very merry Christmas in Connecticut with Smart Housekeeping columnist Liz Lane, a famous expert on marriage, cooking and homemaking. Lane is asked by her publisher to host a war hero for Christmas dinner at her renowned Connecticut farmhouse. The only problem? She can’t cook, she isn’t married and she lives in a tiny New York apartment. WHAT YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE: “Based on the classic 1945 Warner Bros. film, this world premiere musical comedy is a delightfully cheerful way to celebrate the holiday season,” said Dan McMahon, Goodspeed’s director of marketing. “It’s the opportunity to go out together and enjoy an event that is both nostalgic and new.”
photo courtesy of goodspeed opera house
LANTERN LIGHT VILLAGE AT MYSTIC SEAPORT
December 9, 10, 16 and 17 from 5 to 8 p.m.; Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Avenue, Mystic mysticseaport.org/lantern-light-village WHAT TO EXPECT: Lantern Light Village is an outdoor, free-roaming experience designed to exemplify the differences between the modern and 19th-century holiday seasons. There are festive lighting displays, live music, horse and carriage rides, fire pits, a visit from St. Nicholas and more, including holiday-themed stories, crafts and games. WHAT YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE: “This is a great family event,” said Sophia Matsas, Mystic Seaport’s director of marketing and communications. “New this year, will be exploring the time-honored tradition of celebrating the holidays with ghost stories. Experience our original theatrical event, ‘Yuletide Spirits,’ and learn how ghost stories like A Christmas Carol became a staple of winter festivities and why they’re now just a specter of the past.”
december 2022 93
explorations HOLIDAY MAGIC AT THE FLORENCE GRISWOLD MUSEUM Through December 31; Florence Griswold Museum, 96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme; florencegriswoldmuseum.org
WHAT TO EXPECT: Many special events and programs are held in conjunction with Holiday Magic. The decorations in the rooms of the Florence Griswold House feature a fictional mantel-decorating contest between the historic Lyme Art Colony artists. In addition to the traditional decorations, three “fantasy trees” add bespoke sparkle in the house. The museum’s namesake was born on Christmas Day in 1850 and to celebrate, the museum hosts Miss Florence’s Birthday Bash on Sundays, Dec. 4, 11 and 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with drop-in crafting parties complete with birthday treats. Miss Florence’s Artist Trees is an ongoing exhibit with 250 trees adorned in artists’ works. WHAT YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE: “Miss Florence’s Artist Trees are a holiday tradition for many families, and since 2004, noted artists from across the country have donated works to this one-of-a-kind holiday icon,” said Tammi Flynn, director of marketing for the Florence Griswold Museum. “The palette-artists’ styles and subject matter are as varied as the individuals. Oils, acrylics, watercolors, ceramics, glass and collage are used to transform the palettes into traditional holiday scenes, delightful landscapes and more than a few surprises.”
p hoto courtesy of Florence Griswold Museum
94
magazine
Photo by karandaev / Adobe stock
HEBRON LIGHTS IN MOTION
Thursdays to Sundays through January 1 347 Gilead Street, Hebron (Hebron Harvest Fairgrounds) lionlightsinmotion.org WHAT TO EXPECT: A 20-minute drive over a mile of digitally synchronized lights to a selection of holiday favorite songs. The event is hosted by the Hebron Lions Club and community volunteers. Tickets are $40 per car with proceeds benefiting various children’s charities. WHAT YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE: “Our holiday light show is like no other,” said Krystin Strumskas, the event’s marketing and promotions director. “It will surely amaze all those who drive through, leaving them wanting more. Because of the extensive playlist, the show is almost never the same from the first drive through.”
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explorations photo courtesy of Roger Williams Park Zoo
HOLIDAY LIGHTS SPECTACULAR AT THE ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO 5 to 9:30 p.m. through January 1; Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island; rwpzoo.org/holidaylights
WHAT TO EXPECT: Featuring festive, larger-than-life dazzling displays, this year’s event is even bigger and brighter. Spanning across the zoo’s 40 acres, families can enjoy a fun and safe walk through more than 3.5 million illuminated lights and dazzling displays. Tickets are timed entries. Visit with Santa on select Fridays during the 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. slots. Tickets are $12 for ages 13 and up and $10 for ages 2 to 12. WHAT YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE: “It’s a cost-friendly event for kids and adults of all ages that celebrates the magic of the winter season,” said Corrie Ignagni, manager of digital communications. “Now in its third year, it’s the must-see experience to ring in the holidays.”
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magazine
photo courtesy of Shore Line Trolley Museum
VISIT SANTA AT THE SHORE LINE TROLLEY MUSEUM Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through December 18; The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River Street, East Haven; shorelinetrolley.org
WHAT TO EXPECT: Take a ride on an antique trolley and visit Santa. The cost is $12 per person. Walk through the decorated trolley barns. The station and trolley yard will be decorated for the holidays so there are plenty of photo opportunities. The event is held outdoors so dress warmly. WHAT YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE: “Come and take a ride to visit Santa, say ‘Hi,’ and grab your holiday photos,” said Aimee Kanzler, program director. “Santa’s elves will be standing by to make sure every child gets their free gift.”
december 2022 97
Small Works Show
Just in time for Holiday gift-giving! Show Opens Sat. November 26th Artist’s Reception: Stroll Night-Tuesday Dec. 6 48 West Main ST., Mystic | 860.536.8339 | FinerLineGallery.com
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