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Five live performing arts events specifically designed for students in Grades Pre-K through 12
2023 thedaymag@theday.com THE DAY PUBLISHING COMPANY
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President and Publisher
Performance Series at the Historic Garde Theater
WARRIORS DON’T CRY
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 A teenage influencer learns to see herself in the young warriors who came before her. This production is a catalyst for deeper discussion about social responsibility, civil discourse, social media, and community engagement. Grades 6-12
JUNIE B. JONES
PERFORMANCES PRESENTED BY
Regional Advertising Director
Louvenia Brandt 860-701-4247 l.brandt@theday.com
Editor
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EL OTRO OZ
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TUESDAY, MARCH 14 A bilingual musical inspired by The Wizard of Oz. When Dora gets swept away to a strange new land, she learns how to celebrate her unique rhythm and embrace her cultural identity. Grades 3-7
THE LIGHTNING THIEF
THURSDAY, MARCH 30 Junie B. Jones and friends deliver the definitive word on surviving and thriving school in style in this musical based on the Junie B. Jones series of books by Barbara Park. Grades K-4
THURSDAY, MAY 11 Percy Jackson has 10 days to return Zeus’s lightning bolt after mythological monsters and the gods of Mount Olympus walk straight out of the pages of his Greek mythology textbook. Grades K-4
THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS
Group Tickets Price Individuals: $12 per person. Groups 15 or more: and run for approximately 60 minutes. $10 per person & groups will receive one free chaperone* ticket for every 15 paid tickets. *Additional chaperone tickets are available for $10pp
FRIDAY, MAY 19 When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic interplanetary field trip in this new musical adaptation! Grades K-5
Timothy C. Dwyer 860-701-4379 t.dwyer@theday.com
STUDY GUIDES provide helpful information for teachers and students to use before and after attending a performance as springboards to lead your students into meaningful, dynamic discussions and class activities. Please request study guides at the time of order or obtain a copy at gardearts.org.
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© Copyright 2023 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.
and run for approximately 60 minutes
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magazine
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on the cover A stone-clad tunnel allows access to the beach at Rocky Neck State Park. Photo by Johnna Kaplan
this month
Waterford Beach. photo by johnna kaplan
F E B R U A R Y
2 0 2 3
36
CHARMING, CHILLY WALKS ALONG THE BEACH
The shoreline in winter provides idyllic backdrop for romance
PEOPLE & PLACES
HOME & GARDEN
9 Musical love notes
29 Cars of the future
Nickelodeon Quartet celebrates Valentine’s Day with song
12 Standards by the sea
From his home in Old Saybrook, Radio icon Dick Robinson preserves the Great American Songbook
TASTE 17 A few of our favorite wıngs
Local experts offer tips, takeout for popular and adaptable Super Bowl snack
22 A school lunch revolution
Brigaid chef-to-cafeteria program transforms institutional food
26 Restaurant listings
Fully automated travel, personal flying machines are still a long way away
32 Living the simple, high-tech life
Market is growing for smart home systems that provide more efficiency, safety
TRENDING 43 Is an e-bike right for you?
One New London seller offers insight on the trend
46 Five movies about love to cuddle up to
48 Turning pages
The lives we lead: Four books to inspire us to think about the choices we make
50 Local finds
LIFE CYCLES 53 Tracking your fitness
has never been easier
Wearable devices can motivate, monitor workouts for better health
56 Field trip to the theater
Garde series gives many students their first look at the stage
EXPLORATIONS 63 “Heroes in Our Backyard”
The remarkable collaboration that built New London’s Black Heritage Trail
INTERVIEW 71 Shareen Anderson
Mystic Film Festival founder and executive director
Shop unique. Shop local.
february 2023 7
people & places ENVIRONMENT
FINANCE
PEOPLE
N E W & N O TA B L E
New London. P hoto by Marilyn Vache
BUSINESS
making some Valentine’s Day music
8
magazine
radio icon Dick Robinson
people & places
Musical love notes NICKELODEON QUARTET CELEBRATES VALENTINE’S DAY WITH SONG London Sea Notes and the Rose City Chorus for many years, but, like many other barbershop-style organizations, the ever-increasing average member age was becoming a challenge. “Guys couldn’t drive at night,” says Stephen, the only member of the quartet who is not yet retired. “We broke off, and Nickelodeon Quartet was formed.” While the other three singers came to barbershop after long histories singing and performing—Bill’s mother was a choir director and his father From left, the Nickelodeon Quartet, Stephen Anderson (tenor), Glenn Reid (lead), Mike Nortz (bass) and Bill McGonegal (baritone). P hoto courtesy of Nickelodeon Quartet
had his own orchestra—Glenn says that he got started by accident. “My microwave needed
By Terry Wolfisch Cole
repair,” he says, “and it was going to take a week to
mericans have been enjoying the rich tones
get it fixed. The repairman sang barbershop and
and magnificent harmonies of barbershop
there was a flyer in his workshop looking for new
quartets for well over a century. From its
singers. He said he’d fix my microwave that day if
roots in late-19th-century Black communi-
I’d go, so I went.”
ties of the South, barbershop quartet sing-
Glenn says he was “hooked right from the start.”
ing has expanded from coast to coast and around
Mike recalls watching barbershop quartets on
the globe. Founded in 1938 and headquartered in
the Ted Mack Amateur Hour as a child. “I watched
Memphis, the Barbershop Harmony Society “pre-
it and thought, ‘Wow! That’s really cool!’” he says.
serves and extends the reach” of this uniquely
Mike volunteers in the community through Lions
American art form. Nickelodeon Quartet of south-
Clubs International and was invited to the Rose
eastern Connecticut is one of the Society’s more
City Chorus by a fellow member. “It’s even more
than 700 member quartets.
fun to be in the middle of that ringing chord that
The four members of Nickelodeon Quartet— Stephen Anderson (tenor), Glenn Reid (lead), Mike
expands and fills the room than it is to listen,” he says. “It gives you goosebumps.”
Nortz (bass) and Bill McGonegal (baritone)—
The men are enthusiastic about all that barber-
sang as part of other groups including the New
shop has brought into their lives. Stephen says that,
february 2023 9
people & places
Silk’n Sounds at a recent rehearsal. Photo courtesy of Silk’n Sounds
for him, singing is like exercise. He believes that the ability to control his breath and hold notes is good for
Each year, Nickelodeon Quartet performs in a hand-
his health, as are the endorphins released by singing.
ful of holiday shows and celebrates Make Music Day
Glenn says that barbershop-style singing is, “an
on June 21, the longest day of the year, with multiple
exercise in posture, breathing and mental discipline.”
half-hour performances from morning to night, but
Shari Kovel of Simsbury sings lead and bass with the
nothing compares to the business and excitement of
Farmington Valley Chorus, a women’s-only chapter of
Valentine’s Day. The group began offering singing val-
Sweet Adelines International, and with the Mosaic
entines in 2016.
Harmony Chorus, a mixed group of men and women
These musical love notes are more than a creative
that is part of the Barbershop Harmony Society. She
gift. They’re an important community service. The
gets all of the benefits that the men of Nickelodeon
Barbershop Harmony Society recommends that each
Quartet do, plus one more: sisterhood. Kovel says, “I’ve never sung at such a high level b e f o r e , b u t w h at r e a l l y keeps me coming back are t he f r iendsh ips t hat I’ve made a long t he way a nd the suppor t that we g ive each other. There are families that we’re born into and fa m i l ies we ma ke. We’re here for each other no mat-
“It’s even more fun to be in the middle of that ringing chord … than it is to listen.”
ter what, during good times
10
SINGING VALENTINES
MIKE NORTZ
group has “an altruistic purpose.” Nickelodeon Quartet uses these singing valentines as a fundraiser for Safe Futures, a nonprofit organization that has been supporting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and trafficking in southeastern Connecticut for nearly 50 years. The project has grown since its inception. In 2020, the men donated $999 to Safe Futures, all of which went
like marriages and births and hard times like illness
directly toward the organization’s important work. They
or even the loss of a loved one.”
hope to surpass that donation in 2023.
Like Kovel and her Sweet Adeline sisters, the four
Each valentine includes a performance of the song,
men of Nickelodeon Quartet are friends as well as sing-
“Heart of my Heart” and a special introduction for
ing partners. They gather regularly not only to practice
each recipient along with a silk rose, a card, a choco-
but to share each other’s company.
late heart and a photo with the quartet.
magazine
In past years, the quartet has delivered sing-
ceremonies of two group members was special, but
ing valentines to homes, offices, schools and even a
that her favorite performances have been in nurs-
Home Depot.
ing homes or assisted living settings because, “The
Lead singer Glenn says that the group takes its
audience members know many of the jazz standards,
time with each performance and is always happy
pop songs and Broadway tunes that we sing and are
to perform a second song when requested. At one
so appreciative.”
home in Groton, as the singers held a note at the end
After taking two years off due to the pandemic,
of their song, the family’s pet, a Labrador retriever,
Nickelodeon Quartet will be offering singing val-
began to howl along. Some recipients are moved to
entines again this year. The valentines cost $60
tears. Sometimes the singers are, too.
each, with a discount for Foxwoods employees.
Glenn tells the story of a time that a member of the
Special requests and long travel distances may
military ordered a singing valentine for his fiancee,
add to the cost. You can schedule a singing valen-
to be delivered on the day before he left for a tour in
tine for your sweetheart by emailing Glenn Reid at
Afghanistan.
mrgreid@yahoo.com.
“That one was hard to get through,” he says. Others are moved to join the group. Such moments are common among barbershop singers.
Based in the Hartford area, Terry Wolfisch Cole is a writer and professional Moth-style storyteller. Terry is the founder of Tell Me
Deanna Rozak sings baritone with Silk’n Sounds,
Another, through which she produces live shows, teaches online
a women’s barbershop chorus in the Greater New
and in-person workshops, and provides one-on-one coaching for
Haven area. She says that performing at the wedding
speakers.
Shari Kovel of Simsbury (back row, third from left) sings lead and bass with the Farmington Valley Chorus. P hoto courtesy of Shari Kovel
february 2023 11
people & places
s d r a d n a t S a e S e h t by The view from Robinson’s in-home studio
I
FROM HIS HOME IN OLD SAYBROOK, RADIO ICON DICK ROBINSON PRESERVES THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK
By Mary Ellen Fillo photos courtesy of Dick Robinson
Connecticut River and Long Island Sound is just the
f you are out and about in Old Saybrook, his
kind of inspiration he embraces for one of the jew-
might not be a familiar face, but oh when he
els in his broadcasting crown, “Dick Robinson’s
opens his mouth and you hear that legend-
American Standards by the Sea,” a radio and tele-
ary broadcaster’s voice, you’ll likely recognize
vision show dedicated to music from the Great
the radio celebrity who’s been on the air for
American Songbook. The show is broadcast across
decades.
12
Cove location with its exceptional water views of the
the U.S. and is available worldwide on the web.
Dick “Dickie” Robinson, who began his radio
He and his wife of 62 years, Sally, began looking for
career nearly 70 years ago, is calling Old Saybrook his
a new seashore place that had an easier-to-maneuver
“halftime home” these days. And the coveted South
single floor than their previous place in Essex.
magazine
cD Vi
on
e
Ch
er
am
“Old Saybrook had everything nearby and we were familiar with the area,” explained Sally Robinson. “Market, restaurants, shopping, the whole loop is there,” she said smiling. “And there are places that
music,” said Robinson, noting that adding a recording studio was one of the first renovations undertaken
Ro llin g
e
“It is the per fect setting for my show and the
Th
deliver pizza.”
Sto
n es
at the Old Saybrook address. “I look out over the water and see Fenwick and Katie Hepburn’s home, and the causeway. I love it.” His love affair with what he considers “the greatest music ever recorded,” began when much of it was on the newer side of “old.” “It is funny that much of the music I feature on my shows were pieces that were new or relatively new when I started in the business in the 1950s,” said the amicable Robinson, who in Connecticut, was one of radio station WDRC’s most wellknown deejays and station executives. “In 1958 many of the songs we featured were pop songs and now they are standards,” he said about the playlist that includes musicians like Johnny Mercer, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Stan Getz, and singing legends ranging from Al Jolson and Ella Fitzgerald to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole and Lena Horne. Now 84, with 65 years in the broadcasting business— including his string of East Coast broadcasting schools (the
Rod Stewar t
february 2023 13
people & places
top left Dick Robinson, right, with the Beatles in 1965 bottom left Robinson behind the wheel of the WDRC dune buggy known as “Little Dee” in 1969 right Dick and Sally Robinson at their Old Saybrook home
Connecticut School of Broadcasting, now known as the
and considering a stage career, the Boston University
CSB Media Arts Center)—Robinson not only hosts his
graduate just couldn’t walk away from the radio pro-
syndicated radio show, but also has a show on PBS tele-
fession that had intrigued him beginning as a young
vision and owns one of south Florida’s most popular
child. That dream was nearly thwarted when at
radio stations, WLML, Legends Radio, 100.3 FM.
age 16, after he was badly beaten by a gang, doctors
“I joke that the call letters mean ‘Where Legendary Music Lives,’” he says, grinning as he seamlessly
14
warned him after emergency surgery he may never speak again.
switches to his distinctive “radio business” voice
An icon in the music industry, Robinson’s record-
during a recent interview. “It is timeless music cre-
ing studio walls, including one at his Florida home, are
ated by people who were real musicians.”
covered with photos of him and music greats ranging
His dedication to music standards is unwavering.
from Keely Smith, Vic Damone and Connie Francis to
He founded and serves as chairman of the Society for
the Beatles, Cher, the Rolling Stones and many more.
the Preservation of the Great American Songbook, a
He name-drops often, not in a pretentious way but
nonprofit he launched to increase awareness, espe-
while speaking of his admiration for the incredible
cially for children and young adults, of what he calls
performers who became his friends.
“the greatest music,” from the 1920s to the early 1960s.
Robinson is optimistic about the future of the radio
“This music can’t be forgotten,” he said, noting the
industry, noting that COVID gave the platform a boost.
who’s who of contemporary artists ranging from Rod
“People couldn’t see their kids or grandchildren, but
Stewart and Lady Gaga to Paul McCartney and Annie
they could listen to music. They could do that,” he said.
Lennox who have made hit albums covering songs that
A devout Catholic whose uncle, Henry Morton
were top of the charts when their parents and grand-
Robinson, wrote the ecclesiastical novel-made-movie
parents were young. “There is not only a huge older
The Cardinal, Robinson considers himself blessed, not
audience that still loves it, but performers who also
only for his personal, professional and financial suc-
embrace it and a newer generation that is learning to
cess, but for being able to overcome major challenges
appreciate it,” he said.
in his life.
For Robinson, it has always been radio first. Even
“It has been more than 30 years since I have had a
when he was a teenager and acting in summer stock
drink,” said Robinson, reminiscing about the days
magazine
when business deals were made in the wee hours of the
Robinson said he’s still always looking for the next
morning over drinks at a bar and he knew the drinking
venture as he and his family, including three adult chil-
was getting out of control. “One New Year’s Eve, I sim-
dren who are part of the business, continuously pivot
ply said, ‘I’m not doing this anymore’ and just stopped
in an industry that has undergone massive changes—
drinking. … He got me there,” said Robinson pointing
including streaming, podcasting, cable television,
upward. “Now my vice is Diet Coke.”
social media and more.
His own favorite choices when he listens to music?
Robinson says that while he could be relaxing
“I loved a singer named Jimmy Roselli,” he explains.
instead of recording at his shoreline home, he doesn’t
“He was from Hoboken, lived a few doors from Sinatra, but Sinatra didn’t like him much. Too much competition,” explained Robinson. “But what a great voice
foresee retirement just yet. “I want to make it to 70 years on air,” he says. “I enjoy the music and the fun of it all too much.”
Jimmy had. “And Joe Williams,” he continues, referring to the
Mary Ellen Fillo is an award-winning reporter who worked for the
vocalist with the Count Basie Orchestra, who went
Hartford Courant since 1971 before retiring as its popular Java col-
on to become a highly regarded jazz singer. “And Stan
umnist in 2016. Since then she has continued feature, food, travel
Getz,” said Robinson about the famed jazz saxophon-
and trend writing for a variety of publications, as well as restau-
ist and friend whose rendition of “Early Autumn” is the
rant public relations and social media work along the East Coast. A
signature opening song for Robinson’s broadcasts. “It’s
Connecticut native, she attended Hartford College for Women and
all good music.”
Central Connecticut State University.
TUNE IN TO DICK ROBINSON
For a list of radio stations streaming Dick Robinson’s two-hour American Standards by the Sea radio show, visit yachtamusic.com. To learn more about Robinson’s Society for the Preservation of the Great American Songbook, including its Young Artist Program and awards, visit preserveourgas.org.
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E N T E R TA I N I N G
R E S TA U R A N T S
FOOD & DRINK
Fort Trumbull, New London. Photo by John Leckfor
RECIPES
taste
wingin’ it for the big game
16
magazine
top chefs reinvent school lunch
taste
A few of our favorite
wıngs
I
By Jennifer Carmichael
LOCAL EXPERTS OFFER TIPS, TAKEOUT FOR POPULAR AND ADAPTABLE SUPER BOWL SNACK
customizable, these yummy, deep-fried delicacies
t’s not game day without snacks like nachos,
have become an American staple, especially during
chips, pizza and chicken wings. Super Bowl
football season. They survive takeout/delivery quite
eating tends to be finger foods since hand-
well and don’t require much fuss to make at home.
held items offer the least hassle for the host
The National Chicken Council releases its annual
and guests. Let’s face it, when you’re at a party,
chicken wing report as the big game nears. Last
who has time or patience to fumble with forks and
year, for example, Americans were anticipated to
knives? Leave that play on the field!
devour 1.42 billion wings while watching the battle
Chicken wings reign supreme as the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Easy to grab and eat and infinitely
for the Lombardi Trophy, according to the National Chicken Council’s 2022 Wing Report.
february 2023 17
American Fusion Cuisine
fresh, local, organic, sustainable, artistically driven ingredients
Casual Fine Dining
inviting & contemporary bar atmosphere, seasonal outdoor dining
Buffalo ranch wings tossed in garlic Buffalo sauce Chef Carlos Paucar, Hot Rod Cafe
This recipe is easy and practical for the wing-lover. You will need basic kitchen tools and a regular or conventional oven. If you have an air fryer, even better. INGREDIENTS 2 pounds chicken jumbo party wings (6-8 count) If not, any size will be fine, but the timing for cooking will be slightly different.
1 cup hot sauce (any brand)
You’re going to add more flavor to it.
JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR!
4-6PM WEDNESDAY NIGHTS BAR ONLY
2 tablespoons fresh chopped garlic 1 tablespoon dry oregano 1 tablespoon dry parsley 1/2 cup buttermilk ranch, any brand Pinch of salt and pepper Drizzle of olive oil 3 tablespoon butter DIRECTIONS Set oven to 350°. Wash and clean the wings and season them with a little bit of salt, pepper and olive oil. Spread wings onto a sheet pan and cook for 35 minutes. Check to make sure they’re cooked all the way through. While the wings are cooking, make the sauce: In a sauté pan, put the rest of the ingredients (except the buttermilk ranch) on low temperature and mix for five minutes. Set aside to cool. Put cooked wings in a bowl and toss them with the buttermilk ranch. Then spread them back in the sheet pan, and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes. This will make the wings nice and crispy and add another layer of flavor. Take them out and toss them in the garlic Buffalo sauce that you just made and serve them with carrots and celery sticks. These wings will be the perfect appetizer for family get-togethers and football games! Enjoy!
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 18
magazine
taste HISTORY OF BUFFALO CHICKEN WINGS
When did America’s love affair with chicken wings
begin? It started in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo,
but ironically, not chicken wings. A few years later, he and Cornish began to talk about how they could stand out. They wanted to be known for something. And so, they zeroed in on chicken wings.
New York. As the story goes, co-owner Teressa Bellissimo
“I started making different f lavors,” says Paucar. “I
had nothing else on hand to feed her son and his friends
went from six to 10 and then 22. At one point, we got to
one night. So, she deep-fried a batch of chicken wings and
34. We could go all the way to 50, but the problem is that
tossed them in hot sauce, butter and secret ingredients.
we don’t have the space.”
The guys liked them so much that the Bellissimos put them on the menu the next day.
Through the years, Paucar has taken customer suggestions and feedback. About 10 years ago, a customer
Served with celery sticks and bleu cheese sauce,
said that they had tried and liked a ranch, spicy, Cajun
“Buffalo Wings” were an instant hit. Dick Winger, who
f lavor that they had tried somewhere else. So, Paucar
sold hot sauce to the bar, went on the road with Dominic
said, “Well, maybe I can make Cajun ranch, and we did.
Bellissimo, the owners’ son, to promote the new menu
If we create a flavor and people like it, we’ll keep it. If they
item and sell the hot sauce. The item gradually caught on
don’t, we’ll keep moving.
with restaurant operators around the country.
“A few years back, we went to the Buffalo festival and
Almost sixty years later, you’ll find Buffalo wings
had an opportunity to see a bunch of flavors,” continues
worldwide. While Buffalo-f lavored wings are still the
Paucar, who notes that most people at Hot Rod Cafe order
most popular, restaurants have been steadily branching
Buffalo-style wings, then garlic pepper dry rub, Cajun
out. Locally, find just about any flavor you could dream
ranch and creamy garlic Parm. “It sounds crazy, but they
up, from jalapeño peanut butter to garlic Parm, and in
had peanut butter and jelly. So, I came back and said that
different degrees of heat intensity.
we should have something different and I came up with
LOCAL FAVORITES
jalapeño peanut butter. People were ordering it a lot, so we stuck with it.”
HOT ROD CAFE in New London was the first-place
Hot Rod Cafe also features a special flavor on its menu
winner for Best Wings in The Day’s Best of the Best
each month. Some examples include Asian spicy, tequila,
readers poll for 2022—
a nd pu mpk i n spice.
the restaurant’s eighth
But Paucar also points
win. In 2015, owner Rod
out that while f lavor
Cornish and head chef
is important, it’s not
Carlos Paucar took their
everything. There’s a
recipes to the National
whole process to cook-
Bu f fa lo Wi ng Fest iva l
ing wings.
in Buffalo and f inished
“They are so simple,
in second place in the
but it’s easy to mess
United States. The restau-
it up t o o ,” r e m i n d s
rant has also been fea-
Pauca r. “It’s impor t-
tured on Food Network
ant for the wings to be
and has won many local
fresh, and the quality of
food competitions.
oil that they are cooked
When Paucar started
in makes a difference.
working at the restau-
We a r e c on s t a nt at every point of the pro-
r a nt , t h e m a i n m e nu offered typical bar food,
Hot Rod Cafe’s jalapeño peanut butter wings are a surprising hit with winglovers, says head chef Carlos Paucar. Photo courtesy of Hot Rod Cafe
cess of making them.”
february 2023 19
taste For Super Bowl, the Bank Street restaurant is busy, and takes orders via a form on its website, hotrodscafenewlondon.com
wing order, so a lot of people like that they can get two different flavors, if they can’t decide.” Brozyna, who has worked at Uncle Kranky’s Cafe for seven years and has been the chef for two, has been
UNCLE KRANKY’S CAFE in Jewett City was the run-
adding more unique f lavors to the menu. One of her
ner-up winner for Best Wings in The Day’s Best of the
popular, new flavors is Buffalo garlic. But most popu-
Best readers poll in 2022. Co-owners Killian Brozyna
lar overall: sweet red chili sauce and garlic Parmesan
and Morgan LaRose note that customers always com-
dry rub.
pliment on how well the wings are cooked in addition to the wing flavor variety. “We have 46 different wing f lavors,” says LaRose. “With us, you get to choose two different f lavors per
“A lot of wings like spicy BBQ or mango habanero can be kicked up to make them even more spicy, if you’d like,” notes Brozyna. “Or, for Buffalo, you can request to have the sauce milder.
Bone-in wings tossed in sriracha lime and cilantro sauce, the second most popular flavor at Jack Rabbits. Photo courtesy of Jack Rabbits
20
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“Our regular naked wing probably sells the best, and second is our boneless wing,” continues Brozyna. “Our breaded wing with zesty seasoning is third.” Every Sunday leading up to the Super Bowl (this year scheduled for Sunday, February 12), Uncle Kranky’s promotes 15 wings for $15. And if you’re having a party on game day, the cafe offers pans of wings at a discounted price. Call 860-376-4226 to preorder. Located side-by-side on Main Street in Old Saybrook, wing-lovers can find JACK RABBITS, where you can order wings with milkshakes, and THE RABBIT HOLE, where you can order your wings with beer. Owned by chef/owner Jack Flaws, both restaurants have seven different flavors of chicken wings on the menu. But the homemade Buffalo sauce, referred to as “our sauce,” is the most popular and can be ordered with different heat intensities. “Our sauce has a perfect balance between sweetness and heat,” says Todd Bornstein, kitchen manager at Jack Rabbits and The Rabbit Hole. “It’s also very savory. We use a good amount of butter to give consistency, thicken it up and give it a good flavor.” “For Super Bowl, we set up a food truck in the back of the restaurant,” says Bornstein, who says that both restaurants also make boneless wings. “I’ll be out there just doing the takeout orders, and the kitchen team will cook for those eating in. I’ll do four orders every 15 minutes, so we don’t get backed up. It’ll be bagged and ready when customers come at their allotted time.” To place your wing order and secure your pickup time slot on Super Bowl Sunday, call Jack Rabbits and The Rabbit Hole at 860-510-0048. Jennifer Carmichael is a contributing writer at The Day Magazine, and enjoys writing on a variety of topics. She grew up in Connecticut and graduated with a degree in journalism from the University of Rhode Island.
Uncle Kranky’s offers a wing party platter for catering (and Super Bowl Sunday!). Photo courtesy of Uncle Kranky’s Cafe
Buffalo garlic chicken wings
Chef Killian Brozyna, Uncle Kranky’s Cafe
MAKING THE WINGS 1. Lay about two dozen wings out on a sheet pan and cook them in the oven for 45 minutes to an hour at 450°. 2. Then, let the wings cool (they don’t need to cool completely) and deep fry them at 350° in cooking oil until they are crispy and golden brown. FOR THE BUFFALO GARLIC SAUCE 1 cup Buffalo sauce 1/4 cup melted butter 1 tablespoon minced garlic A generous dusting of Parmesan and garlic herb seasoning Heat over the stove until just warm. Toss cooked wings in sauce and serve.
february 2023 21
taste
a school lunch
revolution BRIGAID CHEF-TO-CAFETERIA PROGRAM TRANSFORMS INSTITUTIONAL FOOD
Story and photos by Winter Caplanson hose are house-made tortillas on the beef
serves, but it was the first. In 2016, Founder and
brisket tacos! And that’s pasta primavera with
CEO Dan Giusti, former head chef of Noma restau-
chicken, packing a heavy veggie punch with
rant in Copenhagen, Denmark, began his push to
roasted squash, zucchini, red bell peppers and
replace processed foods with wholesome cook-
steamed broccoli tossed in a creamy blend of Al-
ing wherever masses of people are being served.
fredo sauce and pesto. Beef enchiladas with yellow
Brigaid is now at work in schools in Denver, Buffalo,
rice and peas, yes please!
and throughout the Bay Area in California, and,
In New London, the professionally trained chefs
22
New London isn’t the only school district Brigaid
their latest venture, in prisons in Maine.
of a company called Brigaid have helped to trans-
Brigaid serves nourishing, thoughtfully prepared
form school lunch. Here, 85 percent of what is
food to 182,000 people daily—over 30 million meals
served to students is scratch cooking. The lettuce
per year, and its reach is set to double in 2023.
on today’s salad was grown at Hunt’s Brook Farm
Brigaid’s nationwide model was f ine-tuned
in nearby Quaker Hill and the sandwich rolls were
in New London—less takeover, more collabora-
delivered this morning from New London Bakery.
tion. Chefs brought their culinary expertise and
magazine
experience working in professional kitchens to join forces with the district food service director, who
Yes, thi s is kal And ye e! s, kids like it!
understood how to develop recipes at scale that comply with federal guidelines. “This is the biggest restaurant in town,” affirms Samantha Wilson, New London child nutrition director. Attention is given to the student diners’ whole experience: the way the fruit is placed in the baskets, the layout of the grab-and-go coolers, how food is neatly dished up, and that smile as a plate is handed over. School lunch math typically looks like this: One protein, one grain and a hot vegetable = $1.25 per meal in food costs. But Brigaid school lunch magic eats like this: biscuits warm out of the oven with lemon thyme chicken and mashed sweet potatoes; or whole grain rotini Bolognese, homemade focaccia and garlic broccoli. The learning curve has included fails, though. Not a hit—New England fresh catch fish, lasagna and mojo Cuban roast pork. “Why wouldn’t kids want these?” muses Wilson. “The staff think they’re delicious. But if the students don’t, they won’t eat it, and then they’re going hungry. “Kids might just want an honest turkey sandwich or sun butter and jelly, or a chicken Caesar salad that’s familiar,” she says. “We need to be
Dio Delgado (left) ma magic with district king culinary chef Alex Leigh
The actions! never stop
february 2023 23
taste dependable and consistently offering them some-
all the years they’ve been in school. They’ve never
thing nutritious that they want to eat.”
seen a processed chicken patty sandwich on the
The 30 entree recipes in rotation now have been
lunch menu, nor chocolate or strawberry milk.
tweaked to perfection, like creamy mac and cheese
“We have not served a chicken nugget since I’ve
given a last minute blast of heat to melt and bub-
been here,” says Alex Leigh, Brigaid district chef.
ble a cheddar cheese blend topping; or a comfort-
“Our kids only know roasted chicken, white milk
ing plate of meatloaf, crispy kale and mashed pota-
and tacos made from scratch.”
toes. The Brigaid kale recipe is a great way to get
Best of all, lunches are free to all students, thanks
kids to eat—and enjoy—their veggies. Chefs dress
to the USDA’s Community Eligibility Provision for
kale leaves with oil and sprinkle with salt and then
schools in low-income areas, which provides reim-
bake on sheet pans at 300 degrees for around 12
bursement for every student meal served. There is
minutes…turns out great every time!
also a free breakfast program with hot choices like
This is the cafeteria food students here expect.
breakfast burritos, French toast sticks, scrambled
New London sixth-graders have had Brigaid meals
eggs or warm cinnamon rolls made with 50 percent
Brigaid founder and CEO Dan Giusti
24
magazine
$5 COMMUNITY MEALS BY BRIGAID Once a month, New London Public Schools and the Child Nutrition Program host a community meal at C.B. Jennings International Elementary Magnet School, 50 Mercer St., New London. This is an opportunity to engage with the school district and get a chef-cooked dinner with dessert for $5. The next community meal is scheduled for Wednesday, February 15, from 5 to 6 p.m. For more information or to view the schedule, visit the New London Public Schools website at newlondon.org/nlpsd and click on the calendar.
! m u Y ? os c Ta whole wheat flour, and cold selections like smoothies,
restaurants in favor of school kitchens? Better hours,
yogurt parfaits and cereal.
benefits, pay, the chance to use their skills to make
Want to taste for yourself? Monthly community meals,
change that matters…and appreciation.
priced at just $5 per dinner, are open to the public. Dive
“My first round of applause from a cafeteria full of kids
into dishes that are on (or are being tested for) the stu-
was about cheeseburgers and potato wedges,” declares
dent lunch rotation. A recent menu featured Peruvian
Leigh of the “220 middle-schoolers going nuts, cheering
spiced chicken, rice and beans, elote and tres leches cake.
and dancing, that gave me all the vibes. Working with
This year, the high school’s culinary students are mak-
kids… this is where I need to be.”
ing the desserts. As Brigaid continues to grow, culinary team members
Winter Caplanson is a writer and commercial photographer specializ-
are ever more impressive. What lures Michelin-starred
ing in food, agriculture and handcraft. Follow her on social platforms as
and James Beard Award-winning chefs to leave swanky
Connecticut Food and Farm.
february 2023 25
taste | RESTAURANT LISTINGS ASIAN
PINK BASIL
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
BARBECUE
FINE DINING
NOBLE SMOKEHOUSE
85 MAIN
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
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.
4 Roosevelt Avenue, Mystic 860-415-9564; noblesmokehouse.com
85 Main Street, Putnam 860-928-1660; 85main.com
BAKERY
GIULIANO’S BAKERY
FAMILY STYLE
GROTON TOWNHOUSE RESTAURANT
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
ITALIAN
BUON APPETITO RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA
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
26
magazine
CASTELLO OF NIANTIC
Open Monday–Tuesday 5–9 p.m.; Wednesday–Sunday 12–9 p.m.
PIZZA
SPORTS BAR
WOODFELLAS PIZZA
THE STUMBLE INNE
11 East Pattagansett Road, Niantic 860.451.8880; castelloofniantic.com
ILLIANO’S GRILL IN NORWICH
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
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.
45 Huntington St, New London; 860-447-9337 facebook.com/woodfellaspizzanl
Serving authentic southern Italian cuisine since 1997 using the best ingredients, from mozzarella to seafood. Our dishes are made to order: pizza, pasta, fresh salads, soups and gourmet Italian classics. Open Monday–Friday 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
90 Halls Road, Old Lyme; 860-434-2342 facebook.com/thestumbleinne
SEAFOOD
THAI
Retired Armed Forces Association
FRIDAY FISH FRY
THE SPICE CLUB
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.
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.
257 West Town Street Yantic; 860-889-6163; illianosgrill.com
JAPANESE
SAMURAI NOODLE
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
239 Main Street, Niantic 860-451-8121; thespiceclubct.com
135 Garfield Avenue, New London 860-447-0055; armedforcesretirees.org/home
Price range Kids’ menu
Breakfast
Online ordering
Alcohol served Cash only
Brunch
Take out
Lunch Delivery
Call ahead
Open late
Dinner Outdoor dining
Entertainment Instagram
february 2023 27
home & garden GARDENING
DECOR
ADVICE
Safe Harbor Mystic. photo by john geyer
R E A L E S TAT E
drive into the future
28
magazine
living the connected life
home & garden
Cars of the future FULLY AUTOMATED TRAVEL, PERSONAL FLYING MACHINES ARE STILL A LONG WAY AWAY
“EVs … are arriving in a big way, and by 2030 will be everywhere.” BRAD BERMAN
I
By Jim Motavalli n the 1950s, designers imagining the car of the fu-
spaniel aboard. “Plug into any electric outlet for recharging,” it said.
ture conjured disc-shaped entities with clear bub-
It’s interesting that these future visions still had steer-
ble tops that—quite often—could fly. UFOs were an
ing wheels—the possibility of self-driving cars wasn’t yet
inf luence. The airborne Jetsons’ car from the an-
clearly on the horizon. Even so, General Motors was fasci-
imated series had the added benefit of folding up
nated with the idea of cars moving along embedded strips
into a suitcase. A 1958 trade ad from America’s Indepen-
in the highway, and for the Motorama Show of 1956 pro-
dent Electric Light and Power Companies envisioned a
duced a short film called Key to the Future that showed
“f lying carpet” car with mom, daughter and springer
how autonomy would work in the brave new world of 1976. “We’re all set for auto control!” dad proclaims to his family of four. Their ride is the experimental Firebird II bubble-topped turbine car that GM debuted in 1956. Looking ahead to 2030, we can try to imagine the evolution of the automobile in just seven short years. Amazingly enough, both f lying cars and autonomous ones have become technically feasible. Several startups, including Holland’s PAL-V and California’s Alef Aeronautics, hope to get an affordable flying car in the air in the near future— though all previous efforts have failed. Autonomy is much more mainstream, pursued by nearly every automaker—and companies like Google and
far left A 1958 ad envisioned a flying car that would “plug into any electric outlet for recharging.” America’s Independent Electric Light and Power Companies CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) left Self-driving cars and passenger drones are still a long way off. image by chesky / stock.adobe.com
february 2023 29
home & garden exterior styling, but with the interior, which could become a living room on wheels. The Mercedes F 105 Luxury in Motion concept imagined four rotating lounge chairs, and a steering wheel that disappeared when not in use. With the occupants freed up, the side windows could double as screens for infotainment, and pop-up tables could enable business meetings—complete with projected PowerPoint. But do the experts expect this Uber, too. Self-driving cars were expected to arrive around the same time as mainstream electrics, but
Karl Brauer, executive analyst at ISeeCars.com,
now the latter is on a fast track and autonomy is in
says, “The near-infinite variables in driving con-
the slow lane. The problem remains ensuring safety
ditions make it extremely difficult for a computer
for all in our complex traffic environment. The best
brain to handle all the possibilities that the human
we can do now is provide some hands-free driving on
brain processes.”
limited-access highways—but with the driver ready to take over at all times.
When it does happen, Brauer says, “Car ownership will become far less appealing to most urban dwell-
Those disappointing results are playing out as
ers, and even suburbanites will reconsider what they
increasingly competent electric vehicles (sedans,
could do with that garage space if they didn’t have to
SUVs and pickups) are part of every lineup. And
park a car in it.”
many carmakers have set dates—between 2030 and 2035—for abandoning internal-combustion. There’s some urgency, because a number of states, as well as European countries, will ban gas and diesel cars after 2035. EVs, in most cases better than the vehicles they replace, are the future. But it remains impossible to accurately predict the cars of 2030 without knowing the fate of full autonomy, which has the potential to change everything. Without a driver as part of the equation, we could dramatically shrink the world’s auto fleet, and auto ownership could go away entirely. Why own a car when you can summon one instantly? Auto branding might also disappear along with the need to hold a driver’s license. Huge urban areas now dedicated to parking could be repurposed productively. Most observers think self-driving cars would be more like bland appliances than today’s treasured possessions. The action wouldn’t be with the
30
future to be our reality in 2030? Definitely not.
magazine
Brad Berman, a f ilmmaker and freelance journalist covering the auto industry for the last 20 years, points out that “Apple recently delayed the debut of its self-driving car until 2026. When will it actually arrive? With billions being spent, expect the combined auto/computer/electronics industry to keep saying, ‘Soon, very soon.’ Meanwhile, EVs driven by human beings are arriving in a big way, and by 2030 will be everywhere.” S a m A bue l s a m id , pr i nc ipa l ana lyst for e-mobility at Guidehouse Insights in Detroit, is blunt. “Automated
owner keeps his or her chariot for more than 12
vehicles will not take over the road by 2030. In fact,
years. The fleet doesn’t turn over fast enough to dra-
most cars in 2030 won’t look dramatically different
matically change the auto fleet by 2030.
than they do in 2022,” he said.
The best projection for 2030 is a rapidly electrify-
Projections for 2030, Abuelsamid said, envision
ing fleet, with the best EVs capable of bristling accel-
that perhaps 1 percent of the vehicles on the road in
eration with long range (400 miles or more) and a
2030 will be autonomous (but still mostly hands-free
full range of electronic driving and safety aids. The
only on highways), and 10 percent electric. There are
EV layout enables a more comfortable interior—
290 million cars on American roads, and the average
with no central transmission tunnel and ample legroom for rear passengers. With batteries and motors
opposite top Waymo, formerly known as the Google Self-Driving Car Project, testing a selfdriving minivan in Los Altos, California, circa 2017. ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0) left Inside the MercedesBenz F 105 Luxury in Motion concept. With no driver needed, the seats can swivel. photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz above Ford’s fully electric F-150 Lighting, complete with a front trunk, or “frunk.” The entry-level Pro model starts at around $55,900. Orders for the 2023 Lightning have been halted due to high demand. The 2022 models sold out. photo by jetcityimage / stock.adobe.com
under the car, the hood will open on a “frunk” with expanded storage. Will we all be in flying cars? Again, the answer is sadly no. The startup companies mostly face longterm regulatory hurdles, though drone-like electric short-hop vertical takeoff and landing (e-VTOL) commuter flights might happen by then. Still, the ultra-optimistic Alef Aeronautics says it might have its Model Z, a $35,000 flying car, available by 2030. It’s unlikely, but it would certainly be a gamechanger. Jim Motavalli is the author of nine books (two on electric cars), and is a contributor to the New York Times, Barron’s, Autoweek, U.S. News and World Report, and many others. He hosts a biweekly radio show on listener-supported radio station WPKN in Bridgeport.
february 2023 31
home & garden
living the simple,
high-tech life
MARKET IS GROWING FOR SMART HOME SYSTEMS THAT PROVIDE MORE EFFICIENCY, SAFETY
Smart lighting, such as this system by Ring, can be used to illuminate pathways and entry points to a home. P hoto courtesy of Ring
By Gretchen A. Peck
tem, digital device or home appliance can be pre-pro-
saying, implying simplicity and ease of
grammed, controlled by a mobile app or by voice-acti-
use. But it may seem somewhat quaint or
vated digital assistants, such as Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s
antiquated, because today’s digital inno-
Alexa and Google Assistant.
vations allow us to control devices with-
Statista Market Outlook mapped the steep-climbing
out any touch at all—or with a mere voice prompt, ges-
trajectory of the number of smart homes in the United
ture or glance.
States from 2017 to 2025. In 2017, there were approx-
Automation and artificial intelligence technologies
imately 35 million homes with smart technologies in
allow us to streamline repetitive tasks. And all of these
use. By 2025, that number is expected to rise to more
smart advances are now available to homeowners, to
than 77 million homes.
help create a more comfortable, aesthetically pleasing and safe environment.
32
Today, nearly every electrical fixture, security sys-
ith just a touch of a button” is a familiar
magazine
Smart tech is a huge industry. In December 2022, Business Wire, a Berkshire Hathaway Company,
For optimal comfort, consider how your home is heated, cooled, protected and illuminated. All of these functions can be more intuitive with smart controls. P hoto courtesy of ecobee
estimated that the “smart home market” in the U.S. alone would grow to $78.7 billion by 2027.
For example, Apple’s HomePod Mini is a discreet little 3.3-inch-tall speaker that emits 360-degree sound.
“Home automation is increasingly becoming the go-to
The Siri digital assistant or Apple iPhone app can con-
method to connect everyday devices in homes to the
trol the speaker, and it can recognize up to six different
internet and make living more comfortable, entertain-
family members’ voices. Strategically deploying Apple’s
ing and safe,” the company reported.
HomePod Mini speakers throughout the home allows
CREATING A CONNECTED HOME
Digital home audio is hardly a new concept, but it’s
them to be leveraged as a room-to-room intercom system. There are a number of familiar big-tech players in the smart-home space.
a tech category that continues to see research and
Google’s Nest Audio enables homeowners to fill their
development. Mobile device-controlled systems put
interior spaces with the sounds of music or their favorite
playlists, volume and other controls immediately at
podcasts, initiated by voice prompts. Google’s Nest Hub
your disposal.
pairs smart controls with a touch-screen digital display,
february 2023 33
allowing users to listen to music or watch shows and videos. The Nest Hub Max version adds video-call functionality and home monitoring to the mix— easily controlled by touch-free gestures. Amazon offers both the Echo and Echo Dot smart speakers, and the Echo Show smart display, prompted by Alexa. Audio systems by Sonos are connected via WiFi and controlled either by the Sonos app on a smartphone or by voice prompts using Apple AirPlay 2 technology. Throughout a home’s living and sleeping spaces, window treatments with smart controls now make it easy-breezy to raise and lower blinds on demand or by programmable presets. Smart tech is now in the kitchen, as well, with Bluetooth-enabled appliances controlled by a digital voice assistant or mobile app. A smart-equipped kitchen provides homeowners with the added assurance of remote control. No
NANCY MESHAM | HEIDI HOSS HILARY REID | WENDY VISGILIO
1
RANKED
#
more worries about whether you’ve left the oven or coffeemaker on at home. Smart-tech thermostats from manufacturers like ecobee and Amazon ensure that the home is predictably heated or cooled, even when no one is home. Safety and security are other homeowner concerns where smart-home technologies are providing solutions. Digital video cameras and doorbells,
TEAM 2022
Lower CT River Valley/Shoreline*
NANCY MESHAM
The Ring video doorbell camera wears two hats. It operates as a traditional wireless doorbell, while also capturing motion-detected videos—a relatively low-cost solution for home security. P hoto courtesy of Ring
(860) 227-9071
SOLD
860.227.9071 | nancymesham.com | Old Lyme | Old Sabrook | Essex *2022 units and volume in Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Essex, Deep River, Chester, Haddam, East Haddam
34
magazine
home & garden
Ecobee manufactures smart thermostats controlled by a mobile phone, ensuring that your home is always at a comfortable and efficient temperature. P hoto courtesy of ecobee
alarm systems, door locks and lighting—from Ring,
he explained. Exterior lighting from Lutron can be
Arlo, Vivint and other developers, can all be remotely
pre-programmed or controlled on-demand, remotely
controlled today.
by mobile app.
Many of these technologies have a low-entry price
Often, homeowners who make the initial investment in
point. Take, for example, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock,
landscape lighting see the utility of having other parts of
which complements a door’s manual locking mechanism,
their property equipped with smart-controlled systems.
has built-in Wi-Fi, and allows the homeowner to unlock
They might choose to strategically place lighting at exte-
the door remotely, via smartphone or an Apple Watch
rior entry points to the home for security purposes, or
app. It retails for $229.99.
perhaps around outbuildings and garages.
There have also been innovations in smart-home lighting fixtures and lightbulbs.
Inside the home, a Lutron system provides the same hands-off functionality, plus it affords the added bene-
Wyze makes an LED smart bulb that’s controlled by an
fit of having fewer unsightly light switches on the walls.
app and Bluetooth connectivity. The homeowner can con-
“We call it ‘wall clutter,’ and there are clients who want a
trol the lamp’s brightness, color and hue.
Lutron system more for the design aesthetic than for the
In 2011, Mike Evering founded his full-service electrical contractor’s business in Pawcatuck. His team works
controls,” Evering said. “In either case, it’s about simplifying and making your light fixtures easier to use.”
with architects, builders, commercial real estate owners
In late December, there were just two homes listed
and homeowners, too. In addition to traditional electri-
for sale in all of New London County that boasted smart-
cal services, Evering installs systems like computer net-
home systems.
works and generators. He’s also a certified Lutron Caséta
Asked about what he’s seen of the local appetite for
installer, and reported that he’s placed Lutron lighting
smart-home technologies, Evering said popularity among
systems in luxury-market homes all along the southeast-
homeowners is on the upswing, particularly in the lux-
ern Connecticut and Rhode Island coast, in communities
ury segment of the market. “I don’t know if everyone’s
like Watch Hill and Stonington.
gotten a true taste for it yet, but once you really experi-
Automated lighting, especially to illuminate landscaping, tends to be a typical starting point for homeown-
ence it, you’re going to say, ‘You know, in our next house, I need that,’” he concluded.
ers who’d like to integrate smart technologies into their homes and lifestyles, Evering said.
Gretchen A. Peck is the editor of The Day’s “Welcome Home” real
“People naturally want their landscaping lighting to
estate section, a contributor to TDM and to Hearst Newspapers in
be automatic. They don’t want to have to think about
Fairfield County. She is also a contributing editor to Editor & Publisher
it, and that’s where a Lutron system really fits the bill,”
magazine, where she’s reported on U.S. news media since 2010.
february 2023 35
cover story
charming, walks along
Story and photos by Johnna Kaplan ong walks on the beach may be a corny old personal-ad cliche, but don’t roll your eyes yet. Just like flowers and chocolate, you can’t really go wrong with a stroll along the shore. And just as flowers and chocolate mean more when they’re given “just because,” a romantic beach walk feels even more special when it’s taken out of season. The southeastern Connecticut coast takes on a beauty all its own in the wintertime. So no matter what kind of date you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find the perfect shoreline setting.
THE FIRST DATE SPOT: OCEAN BEACH PARK, NEW LONDON
Blending retro amusement park vibes and natural beauty, New London’s Ocean
Beach Park is full of ice-breaking conversation topics. Which makes it a natural destination for a first meeting—or any date when you want the conversation to feel effortless. Stroll the wide wooden boardwalk hand in hand and look through a viewfinder at passing ferries and the New London Ledge Light in the distance. Read the messages of lovers past inscribed on the boardwalk slats and benches. Wander along the “sugar sand” beach beside the sand fences, or venture down to the water where the Thames River meets Long Island Sound. Watch the gulls swooping overhead. From the vintage mini-golf course to the playground, swimming pool and carousel stilled for the
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chilly
the beach
THE SHORELINE IN WINTER PROVIDES IDYLLIC BACKDROP FOR ROMANCE
off-season, there’s a lot to see— and talk about. To get away from the kitsch, slip behind the parking area and follow the little nature trail that runs beside Alewife Cove to an observation deck overlooking the wilder side of this city gem.
THE SMALL-TOWN STROLL: NIANTIC BAY BOARDWALK, NIANTIC
O
ce a
n
Be
ac h
Pa r
k
For a lengthy waterfront walk combined with a traditional romantic day in town, head to the Niantic Bay Boardwalk, which is both a beachfront stroll and a lively downtown promenade. This 1.1-mile walk overlooking Niantic Bay runs from Hole-in-the-Wall Beach to Cini Park, parallel to Main Street in the heart of downtown Niantic. It combines sweeping views of the rocky Connecticut coastline with several adjacent beaches and the charm of one of the state’s cutest coastal villages. No matter the weather, there are always a few locals out on the boardwalk enjoying their daily walk or resting on one of the many benches that dot the path. Start at the eastern end, and when you reach the other side, take your pick: You can follow the walking path into McCook Point Park, up the hill and then down to the small beach where seagulls congregate, or, you can pass through the “hole in the wall” under the railroad tracks to reach Main Street, and warm up at the adorable, 1950s-inspired Gumdrops & Lollipops; the newest branch of the acclaimed Sift Bakery; or another of the numerous eateries that Niantic has to offer.
february 2023 37
cover story THE UNEXPECTED ESCAPE: BLUFF POINT STATE PARK, GROTON
If you prefer a slightly less typical beach walk,
look no further than the secluded waterfront of the Poquonnock River at Bluff Point State Park in Groton. While the 1.5-mile-long path through the woods to the Point is well-traveled, the narrow beach next to it, sep-
path through the woods. This is a place for those who appreciate the quiet side of nature, and the surprising joy of the less-traveled path.
THE DRAMATIC BACKDROP: ROCKY NECK STATE PARK, EAST LYME
If you and your significant other are obsessed with
arated from the main trails only by the gently sloping
taking selfies together—or sweet shots of each other—
riverbank and some gracefully leaning trees, resem-
Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme has your roman-
bles a secret wilderness. Granted, it’s not at all far from
tic setting sorted. If you’re not into snapping pics but
civilization; the Groton-New London Airport is visible
simply love walking amid stunning surroundings, this
just across the water, and you’re always steps away
beachfront park, with its wind-swept boardwalk, rug-
from rejoining the blazed trail. But when you walk
ged coastline and imposing stone pavilion, has you cov-
along this semi-hidden coastline, you feel almost like
ered too. From the beach, with soft sand and Sound
you’re exploring a secret beach. Walk to the end, won-
views, to the narrow bridge under a stone arch over
dering what vista will appear when you round the next
Bride Brook, there’s plenty of beauty to appreciate
curve, then retrace your steps
here. From the boardwalk, climb the hill to the grandly
or return via the popular
curved pavilion that’s often used as a wedding venue.
Rocky Neck State Park
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Bluff Point State Park
E A S T LY M E
Ocean Beach Park
•
MYSTIC
•
WILLIMANTIC february 2023 39
cover story
Bluff Point State Park
Niantic Bay Boardwalk
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(Hint, hint.) Pose in front of the unique building, and don’t miss the arch with a perfectly framed view of the water and rock jetty below. If you’re feeling more adventurous, explore the inland trails that travel along Bride Brook and Four Mile River. The scenery here is less dramatic, yet nevertheless lovely, and it too provides some pretty prospects for photographers and lovers of Connecticut’s varied landscapes.
THE CLASSIC: WATERFORD BEACH PARK, WATERFORD
If you want to take the concept of a “long
walk on the beach” back to basics, you’ll love Waterford Beach Park in Waterford. Here, there are no buildings, no picnic areas and no playgrounds. There’s not even
Rocky Neck State Park
a boardwalk or viewing platform (though the views are as good as it gets). In other words, there are no distractions from the splendor of nature—except, of course, the company of your companion. With its white sand, blue water and open views of the Sound, there’s nothing to “do” at this beach but look for shells, snuggle on the lone bench near the sand dunes, and wander the length of the coast that curves gently between two tree-covered rock formations. Though this isn’t a particularly large beach, it’s notable for its unspoiled beauty and lack of amenities, a rare attraction in this region. And if you do start craving a bit of variety, the walk from the parking area to the sand wends through some different, and equally striking, natural environments. Johnna Kaplan is a freelance writer focusing on travel, lifestyle and history. She also writes about off-the-beaten-path Connecticut destinations at thesizeofconnecticut.com. She lives in New London. Waterford Beach Park
february 2023 41
SHOPPING
APPS
FA S HIO N
BE AUT Y
MEDIA
Mitchell Beach, New London. p hoto by Cameron MacKenzie
BOOKS
trending
like riding an (electric) bike
42
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love on the silver screen
turning pages book reviews
trending
Is an e-bike right for you? ONE NEW LONDON SELLER OFFERS INSIGHT ON THE TREND By Jeff Otterbein
expanded CHEAPR program, which incentivizes
ou expend energy while saving energy. You
the purchase of electric cars and now, electric bikes.
can go faster and farther. You’re in control of
Federally, Congress is also looking into tax credits
what you want to do.
for the purchase of e-bikes.
“When people ask why buy an e-bike my spiel
Wayfarer has been selling e-bikes for seven to
usually is because you can do more with it with
eight years, but in much smaller quantities than
less effort,” Pat Lamond, owner of Wayfarer Bicycle
today. Lamond said he could sell even more but sup-
in New London, said. “It just opens the doors for
ply chain issues, so much a part of the conversation
more adventure. The best way to describe it is if you
recently, have prevented that.
are only able to do seven miles an hour on a regular
“There is a lot more variety to e-bikes now,”
bike, if you put your e-bike on the first level of assis-
Lamond said. “Before, it was basically your hybrid
tance, at that same effort level you’re able to do nine
only, and people might use it around town, and they
miles an hour. Go to the second tier and you are up
had a range of 40 miles or so on a charge. Now there
to 11 miles an hour. You’re getting exercise but add-
are many more options that can go up to 80 miles on
ing that assistance to boost your ability level a bit …
a charge. It is a growing market for sure. I could sell
it just gives the assistance to help make the experi-
more if I could get my hands on them. The inventory
ence of bike riding more fun for more people.”
level has not been where it should be due to the pan-
After legislation was passed last
demic and demand. It’s probably 10 percent of my
year, Connecticut is planning to
business, but if the inventory was there it could
offer rebates of $500 or more on quali-
be closer to 25 percent.”
fying e-bike purchases. Expected to launch
There is no typical rider of an e-bike.
t h i s ye a r, t he
The majority of riders are 40 to 70 years old, but
rebates are part
25- to 35-year-olds are adopting e-biking at a quick
of the state’s newly
clip, according to the biking advocacy organization, People for Bikes. An e-biker might be someone limited by a medical issue. It could be an older rider who wants to keep up with friends or family. “It might be spouses that want to keep up with each other, so one has an e-bike and one a
february 2023 43
trending regular bike,” Lamond said. “Then you have the performance seekers … people in their 30s and 40s who want to go faster, farther and do more challenging things that the motors make accessible. There are some mountain bikes you can buy and pedal up a mountain and ride down. Instead of taking a chair lift up, you ride your e-bike up. It’s a very diverse market for sure.” A nd that ma rket comes w ith a diverse price range. Walk into a bicycle shop and you can spend $1,000 or more for a basic e-bike. Some might go as high as $15,000. For all the talk about why e-bikes might be the right choice for you, there’s only one way to find out. The time-tested way. Get on one. Try it out. “My biggest selling point is to just put someone on one,” Lamond said. “Once you get on one and ride down
above adobe stock photo
the street and feel the motor kick in
below Pat Lamond, owner of Wayfarer Bicycle in New London, sells electric bikes to an ever-growing market. photo courtesy of Pat Lamond
and get up to 11 miles an hour with ease, it’s a pretty cool feeling for sure. It just opens the door for a lot of people that don’t have the ability to ride a regular bike long enough for exercise … it gives more people the ability to ride a bike.” A 2018 study of nearly 1,800 North Americans using electric bikes found that e-bikes resulted in far fewer short car trips. The study by the National Institute for Transpor tation and Communities found that about 28 percent said they bought an e-bike specifically to reduce their reliance on their car, according to an article by Cycling Industry News. Jeff Otterbein is a freelance writer and editor living in Manchester.
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magazine
SOME CONNECTICUT E-BIKE REGULATIONS
• A Class 1 electric bicycle’s motor engages only when the rider operates the foot pedals, and disengages when the rider stops pedaling or when the bike reaches 20 miles per hour • A Class 2 electric bicycle has a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bike, and disengages when the brakes are applied or the bike reaches 20 miles per hour • A Class 3 electric bicycle has a motor that engages only when the rider operates the foot pedals, and disengages when the rider stops pedaling or reaches 28 miles per hour • E-bikes are not allowed on bike trails or paths or multi-use trails or paths, sidewalks or highways, or (except where permitted by local ordinance) natural-surface trails designated for non-motorized traffic • No person under the age of 16 shall ride a Class 3 electric bicycle • Helmets are required • Local governments have the authority to restrict the use of e-bikes • A driver’s license and registration are not required
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trending
Five movies about love to cuddle up to By Kitty Williams
ove is a beautiful feeling to be celebrated, but it doesn’t always show up in our lives the way we think it will or want it to. When thinking of love in the context of this month, the mind instinctively wanders to romantic love, but love can be present in our lives in all sorts of ways: We can love our friends, our families, our pets and our homes. These five films celebrate love in all its forms.
1. Before Sunrise (Available for rent on Apple TV+) This 1995 film starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy is the first in the “Before” trilogy of romance films directed by Richard Linklater. In it, the two meet on a train to Vienna, making their “how we met” story one of the best in history. Throughout the film, they have conversations at a depth many will never reach in long-term relationships. They question the idea of love, and yet the film will reinforce your belief in it.
2. Frances Ha (Available for free on the Criterion Channel)
46
3. The Farewell (Available for rent on Apple TV+)
What is clear through this film is that friendships
In this film, the actress Nora Lum, known profession-
can feel more intense than romantic relationships—
ally as Awkwafina, plays a Chinese-American who
in both the comfort of their presence and the dev-
finds out her grandmother in China has cancer and is
astation of their severance. Written by real-life cou-
dying. Her love for her grandmother is manifested by
ple Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, Gerwig (as
the immense grief she feels in the knowledge of her
Frances) delivers the most profound speech about the
illness. However, we only see these moments of grief
love she is looking for in this life and how it isn’t nec-
when she is in private or in certain company, because
essarily with a romantic partner.
her grandmother is entirely unaware that she is sick.
magazine
4. The Last Black Man in San Francisco (Available for rent on Amazon Prime)
5. Emma (Available for free on Amazon Prime) The Jane Austen classic was adapted in 2020 in
This 2019 semi-autobiographical film starring
this film directed by Autumn de Wilde. The titu-
Jimmie Fails explores his love for a place. He has a
lar character has a reputation as a local match-
complicated relationship with San Francisco: he
maker. The more she leans into this “gift” of hers,
loves it but it doesn’t embrace him. He also loves
the more her own personal love life gets sucked
the home his grandfather built, but that sense of
into its messiness. Remaining true to Austen’s
home is also stripped from him. This sort of entan-
written word, this screenplay will floor you with
gled love is summed up beautifully in the briefest
its grand speeches.
of interactions he has with a stranger on a bus.
Kitty Williams lives in Brooklyn, New York, and shares her writing and photography at amykatherinewilliams.com.
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february 2023 47
trending | TURNING PAGES
The lives we lead
FOUR BOOKS TO INSPIRE US TO THINK ABOUT THE CHOICES WE MAKE
O
By Janet Reynolds
ne of the upsides of the COVID-19 pandemic was the opportunity to rethink our priorities. Thanks to a forced lockdown, many of us had a chance to consider our lifestyles and our choices. Is this really how I want to continue to live my life when things return to “normal”? Coincidentally, a few of the books I read during that time helped reinforce that message and have
continued to resonate even as we all realize that a new normal is our collective reality. While the books
are varied in their approach, they all push the reader to step out of these wonderful fictitious worlds and back into our own with a different vision, a vision that just might prompt us to consider the lives we lead and, per-
haps, make a few changes. Oh, and they’re also just terrific, well-written stories.
Before the Coffee Gets Cold (Picador, 2019, 224 pages) and Before Your Memory Fades (Picador, 2022, 256 pages) by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, translated from Japanese by Geoffrey Trousselot
The second and third books of a trilogy, Before the Coffee Gets Cold and Stonington’s Best Kept Secret
Before Your Memory Fades both ask the same question: What would you change if you could travel in time? Who would you want to meet and why? Each of these books features an unusual cafe where customers can travel in time. Customers must sit in a particular seat, they cannot leave the
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seat or the cafe after they travel back in time, and they must drink the coffee before it gets cold in order to return to the present. Also, nothing they do or say in the past will change the present. Each book follows four different customers trying to come to a better understanding or acceptance of something that has happened. The stories are poignant and filled with twists. Every single customer comes back changed in all the best ways—just like the reader.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (Viking, 2020, 304 pages) Nora Seed is at the end of her rope. She’s lost her job, her cat is dead, her relationships are in shambles. Continuing on seems pointless and so she decides to kill herself. Sounds grim, yes? But Seed lands, not in heaven or hell or purgatory, but in the Midnight Library. Staffed by the influential school librarian who played an important role in Seed’s younger life, the library is the place between life and death, a place where people get the opportunity to look back at their lives, make the choices they didn’t make, and then temporarily live them out. It’s a chance to perhaps make amends (at least intellectually) and realize that maybe the choice you made—or didn’t make—was the right one after all. It is a chance to, ultimately, decide if you’d like to go back to the land of the living and keep making choices. What would have happened if Seed had married her fiance rather than walking out on him shortly before the wedding, or continued her competitive swimming career, followed her best friend to Australia or become a glaciologist? You’re going to have to read the book to find out.
The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab (MacMillan, 2020, 448 pages) Part historical novel, part fantasy, this book opens in 1714 France. Addie Larue is about to be married to a much older man she doesn’t love. Desperate to avoid this fate, she makes a bargain with the devil to live forever—and, thanks to a glitch in her agreement, to be forgotten by everyone she meets. She literally can’t say her name and if she writes it, the letters evaporate before the ink is even dry. If someone leaves the room she’s in, they will meet her as if for the first time when they return. The book follows what is really a fascinating
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life through history. After some missteps, Addie learns to navigate her life. A burgeoning artist before her pact, she comes up with creative ways to make her mark, so to speak, and has wonderful adventures along the way. She also periodically meets up with the devil, with whom she develops an, um, complicated relationship. Everything changes when, after nearly 300 years, she meets a man in a New York bookstore who remembers her name. This is a love story. It is a story of how we touch the world. It is a compelling read that leaves you thinking long after the cover is closed. If you love historical fiction, are a fantasy fan or just interested in thinking more about why and how you’re doing what you’re doing, any one of these books should intrigue. Which one will you choose to start first? Janet Reynolds is an award-winning Connecticut journalist, editor and content strategist with deep roots in alternative journalism and arts and culture magazines. Find more of her work and contact information at janetfreynolds.com.
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A. PEACE CONNECTICUT HOODIE
This ultra-soft cotton sweatshirt pays homage to three of hip hop’s greatest icons from the legendary Wu-Tang Clan with Raekwon’s famous line from his 1995 debut solo album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx..., which resonated with fans so strongly that the rapper considers it “the Connecticut anthem.” Available in seven colors. $40 Main Avent Sports & Apparel, 30 Franklin Street, Norwich; 860-977-4779; mainaventgroup.com
B. ELECTRA TOWNIE GO! 7D STEP-THRU BIKE
Interested in riding the technology wave? Let this electric bike take you faster and farther on a ride you’re sure to enjoy. It includes a fully integrated battery with three levels of support and Electra’s patented Flat Foot Technology, for ultimate comfort and control while riding. Available in five colors. $1,899 Wayfarer Bicycle, 120 Ocean Avenue, New London; 860-443-8250; wayfarerbicycle.com
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C. BERNETTE B70 DECO EMBROIDERY MACHINE
The B70 DECO is a computerized embroidery machine with everything you need to take your creativity to the next level. With over 200 designs to choose from, the right motif is at your fingertips—and you can edit directly on the touch screen. Free machine lessons are also included. $1,699 Shoreline Sewing Machine Co., 22 Bayview Avenue, Studio #91, Stonington; 860-388-1832; shorelinesewingmachine.com
D. ALL ABOUT LOVE: NEW VISIONS
All About Love: New Visions by feminist icon bell hooks (William Morrow Paperbacks, 2018) offers a refreshing perspective on love by uncovering what causes a polarized society and how we can help heal the divisions among us by instilling compassion and caring in our homes and our communities. $16.99 Savoy Bookshop & Café, 10 Canal Street, Westerly, RI; 401-213-3901; banksquarebooks.com
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E. THE BEST OF JIMMY ROSELLI
Enjoy the soothing croon of Jimmy Roselli—one of the most renowned Italian-American singers of his time and a longtime favorite of radio celebrity Dick Robinson’s—with this compilation vinyl featuring 12 of his traditional Italian hits, including “Mala Femmena” and “Innamorata.” $14.99 The Telegraph, 19 Golden Street, New London; 860-701-0506; telegraphnl.com
F. MINI IRONING BOARD
This adorable mini ironing board, made right in New England, is perfect for sewists and crafters alike. The 6×12-inch board allows you to multitask in any workspace and is great for pressing seams, quilt squares and other small projects. The cover is removable and comes in a variety of prints. $19.99 Shoreline Sewing Machine Co., 22 Bayview Avenue, Studio #91, Stonington; 860-388-1832; shorelinesewingmachine.com
G. RESIN WOOD BOWL
Plan on hosting a Super Bowl bash this year? A beautiful wooden bowl is perfect for serving up Buffalo wings and other delicious snacks in style throughout the highly anticipated battle for the Lombardi trophy. $129 The Rustic Barn, 157 Route 81, Killingworth; 860-452-4145; therusticbarnct.com
H. WINDOW ARCH FLORAL EARRINGS
Each pair of earrings from Milly’s Clay Studio is handmade with the highest quality and attention to detail. These darling polymer clay earrings are hypoallergenic and incredibly lightweight, earning a five-star review across the board from customers online. Available in deep sage and burnt orange. $20 Milly’s Clay Studio, Groton; millysclaystudio.com
february 2023 51
SENIORS
PETS
E D U C AT I O N
H E A LT H
WELLNESS
Lieutenant River, Old Lyme. Photo by fred verillo
FA MILIE S
life cycles
track your fitness on your wrist
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magazine
students’ first experience with live theater
life cycles
Tracking your fitness has never been easier WEARABLE DEVICES CAN MOTIVATE, MONITOR WORKOUTS FOR BETTER HEALTH By Phil Hall
To help in his twice-daily workouts, Annino relies
ive years ago, Groton resident Christopher An-
on a 3Plus Pro fitness tracker that helps him mea-
nino stepped away from his work as a profession-
sure the energy and calories being burned during
al wrestler to focus on other activities. Recent-
his training while tracking his pulse rate.
ly, Annino received an invitation to return to wres-
“I like how it measures everything,” he said. “It’s
tling as part of a tag team—and this return to the
really helped because I’m coming back after five
ring meant that he needed to begin an exhaustive
years, and it was hard because I had to retrain
training regimen to get himself back into wrestling
everything.” The concept of a fitness tracker can be traced back
shape. “Ten minutes in the ring is the equivalent of run-
to Leonardo da Vinci, who envisioned a mechani-
ning a 5k because you’re jumping and running,
cal pedometer that could measure steps. However,
and it’s constant momentum and movement,” he
it wouldn’t be until the Swiss inventor Abraham-
explained. “There’s a lot of cardio involved in wres-
Louis Perrelet created a pedometer in 1770 that peo-
tling. There’s strength, but more so cardio and
ple could measure their steps and the distance they
stamina and agility.”
covered during a walk. Thomas Jefferson became
“Anything that we can do that gets people moving and doing exercise is a good thing.” DANIEL KRESGE
Apple Watch Series 4 with Heart Rate. p hoto by DenPhoto / stock.adobe.com
february 2023 53
life cycles aware of the device while he was U.S. minister to France in the 1780s and brought it back with him to the U.S.—although whether Jefferson used it is not known. The first modern fitness tracker was known as the Manpo-kei, created by Dr. Yoshiro Hatano of Japan’s Kyushu University of Health and Welfare in 1965. That device’s name roughly translates into English as the “10,000 steps meter” and was designed as a tool to combat obesity—Hatano the-
Nenninger, who uses a Fitbit for her workouts. “I’ve
orized that taking 10,000 steps per day could pro-
had it for years. I’m someone who works out five days
vide the balance between caloric intake and activi-
a week. I walk every day for an hour’s power walk. I
ty-based calorie expenditure that was needed to sus-
don’t need it—I just like to have it. I use it more of a
tain wellness.
resource, obviously, because I want to know how
Today’s fitness trackers offer a variety of features
many steps I went. I got to 30,000 steps today.”
and span a range of prices, with models ranging
Michael Gagliardi, a licensed massage therapist
from below $10 to nearly $1,000. Many fitness and
with a statewide client base, uses an Apple smart-
wellness professionals use the trackers for their
watch for his fitness tracking.
exercise regimens.
“I predominantly use it for heart rate, and then
Linda Nenninger, a personal trainer based in
with calories and counting my steps,” he said, not-
Bozrah, said the data displays on the trackers can
ing that the convenience of the wrist-based device
help encourage people to work harder and smarter.
makes his record-keeping easier.
“I think if someone has one and they’re not moti-
“I hate carrying around a book and everything.
vated, it would end up pushing them to do more,” said
Instead of writing things down and then losing a pen, this is so much easier because it records everything instantly. I could just go home and then jot it down if I wanted to or create some type of folder, but at least this gives me answers right away, and it has it stored as well.” Daniel Kresge, Ph.D., a professor of health science and applied exercise science at New London’s Mitchell College, views today’s fitness trackers as important tools in helping Americans combat significant health challenges. “Obesity (is) rampant in the United States, so anything that we can do that gets people moving and
54
top Michael Gagliardi uses his fitness tracking smartwatch to measure his heart rate and calories burned as well as to count his steps. The watch also makes record-keeping easier, he says. photo by Phil Hall
doing exercise is a good thing,” he said. “And if wear-
above Christopher Annino, right, with his wrestling tag team partner Gary Wolf. Annino uses a fitness tracker to monitor his twice-daily workouts after spending five years out of the wrestling ring. p hoto courtesy of Christopher Annino
enough endpoint.”
magazine
ing a Fitbit or an Apple Watch or any other device is going to encourage that, then (that) by itself is a good However, Sherry Pagoto, director of the University of Connecticut’s Center for mHealth and Social
Media, cautioned that f itness trackers should be considered a tool rather than a digital coach. “For folks who are looking to get feedback on how much they’re doing, they can be very, very use-
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ful,” she said. “But if you’re a sedentary person and you want to be more active, oftentimes many people need a lot more support than just that, because they’re not actually problem-solv ing. Once you begin to exercise, they b e c ome ver y h a ndy b e c au s e you can get a sense of how much you’re doing. But if you need more than that—and many people do— it would be helpful to get more assistance.” Pogoto added that when shopping for a fitness tracker, it is crucial to find a device to fit your spe-
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“Obviously, you want to look for a device that’s affordable for you, and you’d want devices that also do more than just telling you how active you’ve been,” she said. “If there’s other features that give you other types of help with your motivation, that can be handy, whether it’s messaging or prompts to be active when you’ve been sitting for a long time. Or, if you have friends who are using certain devices and you can connect, that can be helpful because then you can motivate each other, because we know that social support and social norms really can help with exercise motivation.” Phil Hall is a Connecticut-based writer and the host of the WAPJ-FM talk show “Nutmeg Chatter.”
190 Flanders Road Niantic, CT (860) 739-7302 mywbu.com/niantic
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life cycles
the
Field trip to the
clockwise, from left Back row, Lindsey Brett Carothers, Kari Gunberg and Tom Meglio; front row, Sumi Yu, Junior Mendez and Jared Loftin in The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System. photo by JeRemy Daniel; Rafa Reyes, Gerardo Esparza, Mayelah Barrera and Juan Danner in El Otro Oz. p hoto by JeRemy Daniel; Queade Norah, Lance Raikes and Tyler Tanner in The Lightning Thief. photo by Daniel RaDeR; Brandi Porter, Kristin Stokes, Junior Mendez, Whit K. Lee, Sara Glancy in Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School. p hoto by JeRemy Daniel; Regan Sims in Warriors Don’t Cry. photo by RogeR Castonguay
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ater
GARDE SERIES GIVES MANY STUDENTS THEIR FIRST LOOK AT THE STAGE
S
By Bridget Shirvell
tudents happily tried out ballet dance moves at the Nathan Hale Arts Magnet School in preparation for seeing The Nutcracker as pa r t of The Ga rde A r ts Center’s Schooltime Performance Series this
past winter. It’s just one of the ways the New London-based school and others in the region use performances at the Garde to complement the school curriculum. “The benefits of participation for our students are numerous,” says Angela Maurice, a second-grade teacher at Nathan Hale who has been bringing classes to the performances at the Garde for about seven years. “Students are exposed to classical music and dance. They learn how to participate appropriately as an audience, and some students even become inspired to further pursue an interest in ballet.” For more than 30 years, the Garde’s Schooltime Performance Series has hosted students in Grades K-12 for curriculum-based professional theater and arts performances during the school year. It a l l s t a r t e d when E xe c ut ive Director Steve Sigel was contacted by several children’s touring companies asking
february 2023 57
life cycles if they would rent out the theater to bring schools in
Afro-Brazilian contemporary dance company, and
for shows. After witnessing how successful the per-
many more.
formances were, Sigel decided to hire them as part of
“We try to mix it up and try new things,” says Sigel.
his effort to introduce students from the region and
The performances are often tied into what students
across the state to the independent historical theater.
are learning in English, history, social studies and
“It’s really an introduction to New London for a lot
other classes. Each show comes with learning guides
of young people, and it’s been an important tool to
that schools can use before or after attending.
remind the community of just how diverse we are,”
“They’re musical versions of books and we pick
Sigel says. “One of my favorite memories is watching
them to be a mix of pre-K to middle school with a
this kid get out of a bus, look up at the theater and say
smattering of high school,” Sigel says, adding that the
to his teacher ‘is this what the city looks like?’ It was as
Garde receives feedback and advice from area teach-
if he was in Times Square and it touched me because
ers and the New London Education Foundation on
he lives here in Connecticut but in a rural community,
what they offer.
and bringing him down to a city, even a small one,
This year’s performance of Eastern Connecticut Ballet’s The Nutcracker was particularly special for
meant a lot.” With support from Dominion Energy, the Schooltime
the students at Nathan Hale Magnet School as it was
Performance Series presents 10 to 12 shows each
the first field trip they’d taken since COVID restric-
school year put on by some of the nation’s finest educa-
tions were lifted, and the students saw one of their
tion-based touring theater and dance companies.
own classmates performing on stage as one of the
Over the years, the performances have included mini operas from Salt Marsh Opera, dances from an
characters. “The performance fits into our curriculum in many ways,” Maurice says. The students studied different kinds of dance with our dance teacher, including ballet, and our music teacher taught students about the music in The Nutcracker. We also make connections through text and vocabulary.” Member s of t he ba llet company also visited with the students before the performance, telling them about the story of The Nutcracker and the dances they would see. Fo r m a n y s t u d e n t s ,
“These performances bring together communities that are often isolated.” STEVE SIGEL 58
magazine
t he p e r f o r m a nc e s a r e their f irst introduction t o t he at er. Th at e x p o sure, according to many studies, can encourage
left Joelle Zazz, left, and Queade Norah in The Lightning Thief. photo by Daniel Rader above From left, Gerardo Esparza, Rafa Reyes, Regina Carregha, Juan Danner, Indra Palomo and Mayelah Barrera in El Otro Oz. photo by Jeremy Daniel
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life cycles UPCOMING SCHOOLTIME SHOWS
The Schooltime Performance Series presents shows for students in Grades K-12 with support from Dominion Energy as part of the Garde Arts Center’s comprehensive arts education programming for children. Book tickets by calling the Garde box office at 860-444-7373, ext. 1. The 2023 series includes the following shows:
Warriors Don’t Cry, March 1 Based on Melba Pattillo’s memoir of the battle to integrate Little Rock Central High School in 1957. Recommended for Grades 6 to 12
El Otro Oz, March 14 A bilingual musical featuring salsa, merengue and Mexican folk-infused music, inspired by The Wizard of Oz. Recommended for Grades 3 to 7
Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School, March 30 Junie B. and friends deliver the definitive word on surviving and thriving school in style with a jillion tips, tricks and trip-ups. Recommended for Grades K through 4
The Lightning Thief, May 11 Percy Jackson and his friends embark on an epic journey to find Zeus’ missing lightning bolt and prevent a war among the gods. Recommended for Grades 3 through 6
The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System, May 19 Blast into outer space for an epic musical interplanetary field trip! Recommended for Grades K through 5
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collaborative and divergent thinking and even help to teach empathy. And students that have some form of theater education tend to have increased vocabulary skills and perform better on standardized tests. “These performances bring together communities that are often isolated and don’t have the opportunity to be a part of a bigger community,” says Sigel. “When the students leave, we announce the school and the kids are cheering for their school and other students are hearing about that school. The most important thing isn’t what’s happening on the stage but what happens in the theater.” Bridget Shirvell is a Connecticut-based journalist focused on the intersection of the climate crisis and parenting. A contributing editor to the award-winning daily news source for critical thought about the American food system, Civil Eats, and a regular columnist for Modern Farmer, her work has also appeared in The New York Times, Good Housekeeping Magazine, Fast Company and more. She is currently working on a book about parenting in the climate crisis. raisingclimateresilientkids.substack.com; @breeshirvell above From left, Lindsey Brett Carothers, Jared Loftin, Sumi Yu, Tom Meglio, Junior Mendez and Kari Gunberg in The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System. photo by Jeremy Daniel left Regan Sims in Warriors Don’t Cry. photo by Roger Castonguay right From left, Kristin Stokes, Junior Mendez, Sara Glancy, Whit K. Lee and Brandi Porter in Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School. photo by Jeremy Daniel
february 2023 61
explorations D AY T R I P S
G E TA W AY S
Waterford Beach Park, Waterford. P hoto by Diane White
T R AV E L T I P S
follow New London’s Black Heritage Trail
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explorations
“Heroes in Our Backyard” THE REMARKABLE COLLABORATION THAT BUILT NEW LONDON’S BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL By Richard Selden hotel on Bank Street where Black sailors were beaten during a night of rioting in 1919. The family home of New London’s first Black elected official on Rogers Street. A Green Street building that housed the United Negro Welfare Council and a Black lending institution in the 1920s, and the site of New London’s first school for Black children, opened in 1837 by a once-enslaved man, aged 81, in his Union Street residence. These are four of the 15 original sites on New London’s Black Heritage Trail, marked by bronze plaques unveiled in 2021. On that fall day, speakers and onlookers drove or walked between events at the Lancaster house on Rogers Street—where 93-year-old Spencer C. Lancaster, elected to the Board of Selectmen in 1960, addressed the crowd—and the Hempsted Houses, a museum property owned by Connecticut Landmarks. In conjunction with UNESCO’s Slave Route Project last summer, a 16th plaque, marking where the slave ship Speedwell arrived from Africa in 1761, was added on July 17 at Amistad Pier; a plaque nearby commemorates the Amistad Rebellion. Former New London City Council member Curtis K. Goodwin called the Black Heritage Trail’s creation—a collaborative
The Hotel Bristol. P hoto by Richard Selden
february 2023 63
explorations NEW LONDON’S BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL
ADAM JACKSON HOME
11 Hempstead Street The home of Joshua Hempstead where Adam Jackson, born into slavery c. 1700, lived and worked for 30 years.
73 HEMPSTEAD STREET
One of five houses built and sold at cost by abolitionist Savillion Haley to free Blacks in the 1840s.
JEPTHA LODGE
66 Hempstead Street Site of a former Black church and social hall.
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The former home of Linwood Bland Jr. at 23 Franklin Street. P hoto by Richard Selden
effort by the city, local nonprofits
“[I learned] about Martin Luther
and a handful of committed indi-
King,” said Goodwin, remember-
viduals—a “focal point” of his term.
ing his history lessons, “and we
After attending a New London
have heroes in our backyard.”
La nd ma rk s present ation at
Pease, Goodwin said, was “what
S t . Ja me s Epi s c op a l C hu r c h
I envision to be a role model for a
in September 2019 w ith long-
Black man.”
time friend and campaign staffer
Tom Schuch, who gave the Pease
Nicole Thomas of Connecticut
presentation with University of
Landmarks, Goodwin was “inun-
Connecticut student Mary Lycan,
dated and inspired” by the story
recalls the event being “packed”
of Ichabod Pease, the 81-year-old
with attendees. The event, a fund-
school founder. Pease, Goodwin
raiser to restore Pease’s grave-
said, hadn’t been mentioned during
stone in Cedar Grove Cemetery,
his New London school days.
brou g ht i n $1 ,750, enou g h to
restore the grave markers of both Pease and his wife, Rose. A r e t i r e d s o c i a l s e r v ic e s manager who grew up in New London, Schuch has a passion for hidden history, especially when it relates to the Whaling City, the Civil War and slavery and segregation in the North. “Who knew that in 1774, New London [County] was the largest slaveholding section in New England?” he remarked, still amazed by the fact.
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pointed out, “enslaved people were property.” A l so i n t he aud ience t hat n i g ht w a s s t at e pr o s e c ut or Lonnie Braxton II, “the reposi-
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tory of New London’s Black history,” according to New London Landmarks Executive Director Laura Natusch. Soon to retire from his senior assistant state’s attorney position, Braxton joined the trail team, writing the text for the markers at the Hotel Bristol, scene of the 1919 riot, and at the Franklin Street home of civil rights leader Linwood Bland Jr. About Bland, Braxton said: “He was more than a leader. He was an icon, he was a diplomat, he was a servant of the people.” Goodw in’s initial plan was to install a marker at the site
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explorations NEW LONDON’S BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL THE HOTEL BRISTOL
90 Bank Street The site of an hourslong brawl between Black and white Navy sailors in 1919 during which dozens of Black sailors were severely beaten.
ANTONE DESANT PROPERTY
745 Bank Street Site of properties purchased by Antone DeSant, who arrived in New London c. 1830 from Cabo Verde aboard a whaling vessel.
38 GREEN STREET
Former site of the New England Peoples Finance Corporation and the United Negro Welfare Council.
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of Pease’s school—located where the Salvation Army parking lot is today—and host “a day in his honor,” he said. Though Goodwin had helped sand the Amistad replica in middle school and did some guiding at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum, history had not been a consuming interest. Spurred on by the combined enthusiasm of Thomas, Schuch, Natusch and Braxton, however, the newly elected council member set his sights on a full-fledged Black Heritage Trail. Another member of the trail team, New London Director of Economic Development and Planning Felix Reyes, Lancaster’s neighbor as a boy, contacted Natusch to see if New London Landmarks would assist with the research. “The beautiful thing about Felix contacting us was that it was easy for us to say yes,” said Natusch, noting that New London Landmarks was already engaged with Black history, bringing to light the stories of the demolished Shapley Street neighborhood and New London’s Black whalers, for example. According to Natusch, there has been “a real cultural shift” in the preservation field from saving buildings for their architecture to saving them for their social history. She cited two sites on the trail: the Bank Street houses owned by Cabo Verde-born whaler Antone DeSant, and the 38 Green Street offices, “a hotbed of Black heritage.” One of Thomas’s contributions was researching Adam Jackson, enslaved by New London justice of the peace Joshua Hempstead, who refers to Adam and his parents, John and Joan, in his celebrated 18th-century diary. “I take Adam’s story very personally,” said Thomas. “I grew up with Hempstead descendants. It’s all very close to home.”
NEW LONDON’S BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL THE FAYERWEATHER HOME
90 Broad Street Sarah Harris Fayerweather, the first Black student at Prudence Crandall’s boarding school for girls in Canterbury lived here from 1841 to 1855.
far left An African music and dance group, Nia Arts, performs on New London’s Amistad Pier at the unveiling of the Black Heritage Trail’s 16th plaque marking the arrival of the slave ship Speedwell. P hoto by Richard Selden above The house built at 745 Bank Street by whaler Antone DeSant. P hoto by Richard Selden left State Rep. Anthony Nolan looks on as Spencer C. Lancaster, 93, speaks at the October 7, 2021, unveiling of the Black Heritage Trail plaque honoring him at his former Rogers Street home. Lancaster was elected New London’s first Black official in 1960. P hoto by Richard Selden
SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH
1 Garvin Street New London’s oldest historically Black church, founded in 1894.
LINWOOD BLAND JR. HOME
23 Franklin Street Former home of civil rights leader Linwood Bland Jr.
february 2023 67
explorations NEW LONDON’S BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL ROBERT JACKLIN PROPERTY
Mahan Park, Vauxhall Street Site of a farm purchased by Jacklin who faced extreme backlash by town officials and residents.
FLORIO HERCULES GRAVESITE
1 Bulkeley Place The burial site at Ye Antientist Burial Ground of Florio Hercules, “wife of Hercules, governour of the Negroes.”
SPENCER C. LANCASTER HOUSE
42 Rogers Street Home of civil rights activist Spencer C. Lancaster, who became New London’s first Black elected official in 1960.
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Mentioning events on the Hempstead grounds, such as the virtual campfires of the Slave Dwelling Project and Tammy Denease’s portrayals of Joan Jackson at Juneteenth events, Thomas said she thinks of the Hempsted Houses as a “town green” and a hub of Black history. The main researcher of several trail sites, now delving into the “real” West Indies trade, Schuch shared one of his motivations: “This is our gift to the future of New London, to the children of New London.” He and Braxton are currently involved with the ethnic studies curriculum developed by New London High School teacher Linda Pfeiffer. Meanwhile, Goodwin, continuing to serve as project manager, is forging ahead with a “more immersive” phase two, to include additional markers and a recorded narration accessed by QR codes. (Said Thomas: “I can’t wait for someone to call me and say, ‘When can you record?’”) Telling the story of New London’s Indigenous heritage is also on the drawing board, under a “New London Cultural Trails” umbrella. “We aren’t leaving anyone out,” commented Braxton. “What I hope the trail will do is be a bridge-builder … that it will make us all proud to be Americans.” Richard Selden covers the arts for The Georgetowner in Washington, D.C., and wrote about Babe Ruth, Herman Melville and Hank Williams for The Washington Post, among other freelance assignments. A New Londoner since 2021, he has worked for cultural organizations in Washington, Baltimore and New York and advised many in his home state of Connecticut.
NEW LONDON’S BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL FREDERICK DOUGLASS AND DART’S HALL
left 38 Green Street. Photo by Richard Selden above Felix Reyes (at the lectern), New London director of economic development and planning, and then-New London City Council member Curtis K. Goodwin spoke at the unveiling of the Black Heritage Trail plaque honoring Spencer C. Lancaster at 42 Rogers Street on October 7, 2021. Photo by Richard Selden below Nicole Thomas, assistant site administrator for the southeast region of Connecticut Landmarks, poses at the Hempsted Houses with her certificate of appreciation from the office of the mayor on October 7, 2021, unveiling day for New London’s Black Heritage Trail. P hoto by Richard Selden
2 Atlantic Street Site where noted abolitionist and orator Frederick Douglass gave a series of lectures in 1848.
ICHABOD PEASE SCHOOL
111 Union Street Site where Ichabod Pease, 81, an escaped slave, opened a school for New London’s Black children in 1837.
THE AMISTAD REBELLION & ARRIVAL OF THE SPEEDWELL
Amistad Pier entrance, Waterfront Park Where the schooner Amistad was towed by the U.S. Navy after the captive Africans aboard seized control of the ship in 1839. Another plaque was placed last summer marking the 1761 arrival of the slave ship Speedwell.
february 2023 69
interview INFLUENCERS
Fort Rachel Marina, Mystic. Photo by Emily Thompson
Q&A
get to know Shareen Anderson
70
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interview
Shareen Anderson
M YS T I C F I L M F E S T I VA L F O U N D E R A N D E X E CU T I V E D I R E C T O R in French and Russian, she went on to earn her master’s in Russian language and literature at St. Petersburg State University in Russia. Her love of language has translated to her work on award-winning documentaries and series for networks like A&E, PBS, Netflix, CNN, Al Jazeera Photo courtesy of shareen anderson
English, the Food Network, National Geographic, Discovery and more. She is currently developing or in production on several documentary projects as well as a scripted series for television. The New York-based producer, director and showrunner also has a home in Mystic, where in 2017 she founded the Mystic Film Festival, an annual showcase of films and documentaries from around the world, all screened in Mystic and now, in Westerly, Rhode Island. She serves as the festival’s executive director.
By morgan rizzo
In 2022, the festival celebrated its fifth year with
s a child, Shareen Anderson loved going to the
community events, discussion panels and screenings.
movies. Throughout her teenage years, it was al-
Already receiving submissions for the 2023 film
ways a big event for her to see a new feature
festival (scheduled for October with submissions due
film on the big screen. A graduate of Washing-
by mid-June), Anderson took some time out to help us
ton State University with a bachelor’s degree
get to know a little more about her and her mission.
TDM: What made you interested in the world of film? SA: In college, I was interested in language and litera-
TDM: Why did you create the Mystic Film Festival? SA: Before the Mystic Film Festival, I was first the
ture and spent some time abroad. I didn’t think of going
co-founder of the Jozi Film Festival in Johannesburg,
into film until later on. It wasn’t until the early 2000s
South Africa. Our inaugural year was 2012 and it started
when I started getting into documentaries. It was a time
with a couple of other friends and filmmakers. It was
when all of these interesting documentaries were com-
kind of a spur-of-the-moment for me. I had been living
ing out and it pushed the envelope in terms of storytell-
there with my husband and had been creating and pro-
ing. I then knew I wanted to be involved in documenta-
ducing projects. There was no mainstream film festival
ries and began making my own.
in Johannesburg, so we started the festival and it’s still
I raised money to make my own documentaries, and I
going strong.
worked on my own projects when I could while interning
I got the film festival bug working on the Jozi Film
and getting jobs in the television and film industry. I just
Festival. When I moved back to the states, I was still
built on that, and here I am 20 years later. I’m still doing
working on the festival remotely, but I couldn’t always
it and loving it.
go back. In 2017, I bought a place in Mystic because I
february 2023 71
interview wanted to have a summer place there because I lived in
were going totally virtual, and we decided to play it by
New York City full time.
ear with a backup virtual platform. In 2021, we decided
When I was renovating and getting to know the
to go forward as well.
area, I thought this would be a cool place for a film fes-
In 2022 we had over 90 films, wonderful workshops
tival. There are so many artists who live here and love
and a great turnout. It was the fifth year, which is a piv-
film, and cinemas are all around. So, I did it on a whim.
otal moment. We started getting our footing and fig-
I didn’t really get anyone else involved. I found a couple
uring out what works and what doesn’t. We got the
of venues like the library, the Mystic Luxury Cinemas,
United Theatre of Westerly in 2021 as another location,
and then we did it.
but in 2022 the United Theatre was really involved. It
We had an opening night that was really successful. Once people started hearing about it, I had people
was nice to bring the two communities together for the festival. It felt like we had finally figured things out.
contacting me saying that they’d love to help volunteer. Before I knew it, I had a team of people who were
TDM: How do you choose what films are selected for
helping me out with the first one, the second and so on.
the festival?
It grew into a community with people in the area pas-
SA: We have a programming team of between five to
sionate about film, volunteering and growing the fes-
10 people watching the films as they come in. We come
tival. And, here we are now going on our sixth festival.
together weekly or biweekly to talk about what we watched and keep tabs on how we are feeling about
TDM: How has the festival evolved over the years? SA: Every year is a little different. The first year we had
the films. As we get closer to when our submissions
around 50 films, and the second festival we had around
It’s a whole process consisting of watching, talking and
70. The third year was the pandemic year of 2020. We
eventually getting to the point where we select our final
didn’t shut down because of the pandemic. A lot of films
program.
close (this year, on June 18), we start narrowing it down.
WATCH SHAREEN ANDERSON AT WORK
Learn more about Shareen Anderson at shareenanderson.com, where you can view trailers and clips of her work, including: • Creator and executive producer of The Murder of Laci Peterson, a six-part limited documentary series for A&E, which won a silver medal at New York Festivals International Television and Film Awards • Creator and executive producer of Saving Soweto, an eight-part documentary series for Al Jazeera English, which took the bronze medal at New York Festivals International Television and Film Awards • Director and producer of Return To The USS Atlanta, which won a Spirit of Independents Award at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival and screened on Netflix and PBS • Anderson’s first feature documentary, Charents: In Search of My Armenian Poet, won the Audience Choice Award at the Pomegranate Film Festival in Toronto, Canada •O ther past projects she’s created, directed and produced include the four-part documentary series A Different Country for ETV South Africa, Forgotten Freedom Fighters, a documentary film for Al Jazeera English, and These Streets Belong To Us, which screened at several international film festivals and aired on MNet Africa • Anderson’s freelance supervising producer credits include To Catch A Smuggler for National Geographic and The Shadows of Death and Suspicious Minds for Investigation Discovery 72
magazine
TDM: How do you decide which films receive awards at
roles that people play in making films because it is a
the end of the festival?
very collaborative art form.
SA: We have a jury that watches the final films, and we include the programming team’s input when choosing
TDM: How has the festival been received by filmmakers
the award winners. It’s a big team effort. There are so
and the community?
many talented filmmakers and directors, so we had so
SA: The filmmakers have always been supportive of
many great short films and wonderful documentaries.
the film festival. With each year we are being more
We try not just to award filmmakers and directors but
and more known to filmmakers in the community and
also the crew, tech people, cinematographers, editors,
beyond. We not only show films from Connecticut and
production designers and costumers. We try to vary
Rhode Island, but films from all over the country and
the awards as much as possible and recognize all of the
the world.
Photo courtesy of shareen anderson
TDM: How are plans going for 2023’s Mystic Film Festival?
SA: We’ve opened submissions for the 2023 festival, which is exciting. We have also formed a nonprofit entity, the Mystic Film Institute, which will provide us with more opportunities. In 2023, we will have our yearly festival as well as screenings throughout the year. Morgan Rizzo is a senior at Salve Regina University with a double major in English communications and creative writing and publishing with a marketing minor. She loves watching the sunset, capturing photos for social media and spending time with her family in Westerly, Rhode Island.
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