Ink Magazine - July 2019

July 2019

publications

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www.inkct.com

Vol 15 Issue 164 2019

A guide to finer living in Connecticut & abroad.

Complimentary

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www.inkct.com

Features

JULY 2019

Total Design Source The Difference is th Designer.

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Columns, Reviews, Events

ISSUE CONTENTS

Music, Mirth & Mojo Walter Trought - Defying the Odds

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Cardinal Points A Horse of a Different Color

pg. 30

Crusty Old Diver

pg. 60

Navy Divers - A Reunion

The Cheesemonger

pg. 76

Summer Cheese

On the Vine N.L. Shaw & Company

pg. 76

Summer Whites

True Gems of History are One Of a Kind

Life On Sugar

pg. 18

July Events

pg. 78

The Sweetest Things

pg. 80

Upcoming Events in Connecticut

INK is much more than a magazine. It is an illustration of Connecticut life. A drive down winding roads past innocent looking gravel driveways.

Social Tuna

There are big things happening at the other end of those driveways. Our

Simple Solutions to Effective Social Media Management

state is filled with the most amazing people doing incredible things.

pg. 34

Ingenuity and purposeful living abounds. You really never know who you are talking to. Artisanship is second nature here; art, culture, and commerce intertwine. Whether you call Connecticut home, or you’ve come to“get away from it all” one thing is for certain. You know what you love about being here. Our devotion is and always has been to capture the “Connecticut experience” one story at a time.

Jam & Squeeze on the PCT: Part 1

“Your neighbor just designed a new postage stamp and the gentleman down

The Odyssey of Hiking the Pacific Coast Trail

documented Connecticut residents and life here in the Nutmeg state. Today

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the street discovered Machu Pichu.” For over a decade, Ink Publications has more than ever, we take great pride in telling these stories.

from all of us at Ink

INK staff Contributors:

Advertising:

Hummock Island

Jeffery Lilly- originator/founder/publisher

An Oyster Farm Tour

Stephanie Sittnick - founder/publisher/sales design/account receivables

Contact us to receive our media kit complete with detailed advertising information including ad rates, demographics, and distribution in your area.

pg. 54

Susan Cornell - editorial Caryn B. Davis- editorial Alletah Ganino - editorial Alison Kaufman - editorial/photos Mark Seth Lender - editorial/photos Art LiPuma - editorial Rona Mann - editorial

Shelter Island

Paul Partica - editorial

Travels from A Broad.

John Tolmie - editorial/photos

Please direct your advertising inquiries and questions to: Stephanie Sittnick - Director of Advertising advertising@ink-pub.com - 860-227-8199 Cheryl Powell - Greater Connecticut cheryl@ink-pub.com - 860-608-5749 Rona Mann - Greater Connecticut six07co@att.net - 401-539-7762 Jacki Hornish - Litchfield jacki@inkct - 860-488-0393 Richard Malinsky - Art & Culture/Shoreline richard@inkct.com - 216-704-9273

pg. 64 Every issue is printed using 100% Soy based ink.

We encourage the public to submit stories, poems, photography, essays, and all things creative. If you know of a person or place of interest, please submit your ideas to: submissions@ink-pub.com We will do our best to put your ideas in INK.

All content of INK Publications including but not limited to text, photos, graphics and layout are copyrighted by INK Publishing, LLC. Reproductions without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. Ink Publishing, LLC is not responsible for images or graphics submitted by advertisers which are not copyrighted or released for use in this publication.

INK PUBLISHING, LLC 71 Maple Avenue, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 email: submissions@ink-pub.com www.inkct.com

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WATERWORKS: A Marine Show Concurrent show:

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Chestnut Hill Concerts Ronald Thomas, artistic director

86th Hudson Valley Art Association Juried Exhibition

Thru August 2, 2019

A Great Place to Buy Art!

Art: Jacqueline Jones, Rendevous, oil.

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CELEBRATING OUR GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY IN 2019 WITH FOUR CONCERTS OF WORLD-CLASS CHAMBER MUSIC IN AUGUST AT THE KATE AUGUST 2 • ALL-BACH PROGRAM

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AUGUST 9 • BRAHMS AND SCHUBERT

Amernet String Quartet: Misha Vitenson violin, Franz Felkl violin, Michael Klotz viola, Jason Calloway cello • Vivek Kamath viola • Ronald Thomas cello

AUGUST 16 • BÉRIOT, DVOŘÁK, BRAHMS

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Catherine Cho, Tien-Hsin Cindy Wu violin • Todd Phillips viola Ronald Thomas cello • Mihae Lee piano

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Award-winning restaurants Over 50 unique boutiques Fun, family-focused events

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“I Have My Mother’s Eye” Total Design Source: The Difference is the Designer

by RONA MANN throw open her doors, positioning herself as an interior designer...she lived beautiful design almost from the time she was born in Singapore.

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hantal Lawrence has just the perfect mix of attributes to make her rise to the very top of her profession. It’s what defines her and sets her apart. It’s what turns first time clients into long term relationships.

Chantal is a much sought after designer, has worked extensively with both architectural and engineering firms, spent several years as a sales rep for Steelcase, the world’s largest furniture manufacturer, and has managed to incorporate all this experience and talent into a creative and idea-provoking space on Main Street in Old Saybrook called Total Design Source.

Unlike others in the field, Lawrence did not just go to school for a couple of years and then

“My father was in the oil business, and virtually from the time they married, he and my mother lived all over the world,” Chantal begins. “Every three years they moved somewhere else around the globe. Being the youngest of five, I didn’t experience all those moves, but I know that after Singapore, we moved to Brussels. By then my mother had had enough, so we settled in Greenwich permanently. I loved growing up there. I had structure, consistency, and a mother who was both a furniture designer and an artist, so I grew up around all that.”

The “all that” Lawrence speaks of was a world of beauty, form, and most of all, color. “There’s was always lots of color in the house, and she taught me by letting me see things through her eyes.

She also instilled in all of us a work ethic that just

doesn’t exist anymore, but it’s one I embrace.”

Chantal did eventually go on to school for design, but she went to the Rhode Island School of Design (affectionately known as RISD), arguably one of the finest in the world and received a five year degree incorporating a Bachelors in Fine Arts and a Bachelors in Interior Architecture. Her vast experience and the legacy of her “mother’s eye” let her hit the ground running, as she spent a number of years learning and mastering every side of the design business. “I already had a solid design background, but I went on in my career experience to learn sales and to perfect a special

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brand of customer service, all of which gave me a decided advantage. Total Design Source is therefore different from your average interior design company.”

Her projects along the way were both vast and varied, ranging from “redesigning 80 executive offices 80 different ways at Clairol’s World Headquarters in Stamford;” to first homes, vacation homes, churches, banks, corporate headquarters of all stripes, hospitals, and schools. She consulted with newlyweds, executives, and captains of industry; and throughout she culled her enviable talents and

created a strong and lasting reputation. That has led to ongoing referrals which Lawrence gratefully acknowledges, “Referrals are a huge part of my business and always very much respected.”

The space on Main Street right in the heart of downtown Old Saybrook reflects the woman herself. It is all at once an art gallery, a gift shop, a place where samples abound, and where creativity is spoken daily. Above all, it reflects Chantal Lawrence’s good taste and absolute commitment to making her clients’ homes a place “To Love Where You Live.”

Services are as individualized as the clients Lawrence serves. She suggests a one hour inhome design consultation to begin. This focuses on what the client wants, expects, or envisions. Furniture layout, paint colors, and general guidance may all be part of this consultation, then the customer may either take it from there and pursue their goals on their own, or continue working with Chantal. A three hour “Green Design” Consult is very popular with Total Design Source aficionados. It’s all about reusing what already exists in the home and giving the space new energy. It may involve rearranging furniture to create a better traffic pattern, repositioning of art, area rugs and accessories, or maybe redirecting lighting.

Lawrence’s services read like a menu offering a number of options, since there is no right or wrong way to design a home. Additional

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the design is their own, but I guide them, and I have no problem telling a client if something isn’t going to work. I just say it quickly, because that’s who I am,” she laughs. “I help them understand the ‘eye.’”

to window treatments, paint, wallpaper, furniture, accessories. It can be just one room, or a total design of the home. I have no limits.”

And of course, she has that extra advantage... her mother’s eye.

Come meet Chantal Lawrence and perhaps buy a summer host-

choices may be a three hour accessory consult, a two to three hour room cleanse to open and free up space of unnecessary objects and make it shine again, custom millwork and cabinetry design, or perhaps you’ll just want to sit down with Chantal, tell her your goals, and let her put together a design menu that’s yours alone.

“I have really good taste,” Lawrence says, “but I always listen. I try hard to make sure

Most clients of Total Design Source are long term folks who continue to contact Chantal again and again throughout the years as their needs or moods or whims change. While many of them are local and have been with her since she first opened in Essex in 2000, her reputation extends far and wide, from New York to Boston to Fishers Island, and everywhere in between.

“It may be my suggestions for design, but ultimately their home is their story, and that’s what we work for together. My experience is total and complete. We can guide them from millwork and cabinetry,

ess gift at Total Design Source, 180 Main Street in Downtown Old Saybrook or visit www.tdesignsource.com (860) 388-0019

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Mystic Knotwork.com A New England Tradition for 60 Years

Yankee Magazine 2019 -Voted Best of New England 25 Cottrell St. â&#x20AC;˘ 2 Holmes St. Downtown Mystic, CT 06355 860.889.3793

MysticKnotwork.com info@MysticKnotwork.com Open 7 days a week

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Old Saybrook Antiques Center

756 Middlesex Tpke. Rt. 154, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 OPEN DAILY 10 - 4 / 860-388-1600

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Photo by Stephanie Sittnick

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True Gems of History are One Of a Kind

N.L. Shaw & Company

by Rona Mann / photos by Hunter Gillen & Tessianna Bettencourt

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t didn’t start out that way. Originally she was a phys. ed. teacher. A gym teacher. Her world was basketballs and volleyballs and sneakers and sweat.

After teaching for a number of years, Nancy Shaw graduated to running a fitness and racquetball club; however one day a week she worked part time at a retail jewelry store, “to help out a friend of a friend, and I just fell into it,” Shaw says, “but I quickly fell in love with it.” It was that “fall” that opened her eyes to the entire fascinating and exquisite world of fine antique and estate jewelry and rare colored gemstones.

Nancy quickly proved to be an eager student with an insatiable thirst; before long, she knew it was time to hang up her sneakers forever.

It’s been 23 years now since Nancy Shaw eschewed her fitness garb, traded it in for dress shoes and business attire, and opened a jewelry shop in the heart of downtown Mystic.

She knew from the first that she wanted her establishment to be somehow different. While other jewelry stores often have a small display of antique or vintage pieces, Nancy wanted a stunning collection...perhaps the most extensive and diverse collection around. Yes, she would be a full service jewelry store and happily serve customers who needed quality repairs or a watch battery, but she also knew she wanted N.L. Shaw and Company to stand out from the rest. She found that special niche in what she loved best during her short foray into the jewelry business: antique and estate pieces. Yes, fine and exquisite pieces

that were one of a kind, that could not be found in any other jewelry store in Mystic, nor anywhere else for that matter. She would be different. She would be unique. And 23 years later, having survived the infamous Mystic fire that wipe out a half block of downtown businesses in 2000, recessions, punishing winters, and the like, N.L. Shaw and Company is still on West Main Street, still attracting both buyers and sellers who have a keen eye for elegance and a sincere appreciation for quality service that is neither intrusive nor cloying.

Nancy Shaw has never stopped the learning, the education, nor the appreciation for the fine craftsmanship and special attention to detail

20 This young woman appears to be doing what Nancy herself did years ago, soaking up as much knowledge as possible and then delightedly passing it on and sharing it with customers. She is herself a gem, a true complement to the store, and Nancy seems to know and appreciate that fact.

Photo by Stephanie Sittnick

that sets estate and antique jewelry apart from other pieces of wearable art. She is still as enthusiastic and wide-eyed today about pieces she acquires as she was 23 years ago, and she is eager to pass that love, knowledge, and appreciation on to customers who appreciate her vast background and enviable talent.

N.L. Shaw is a welcoming shop. There are no hush-hush tones here, no pretension, no “salespeople.” There is Nancy and Kaitlyn O’Neill, Shaw’s more-than-capable manager.

The shop is purposefully designed to complement the merchandise with vintage music softly playing in the background and posters from the Young Ladies Journal, an illustrated magazine published from 18721879, adorning the walls. It immediately sets the tone and puts visitors in the mood to be dazzled by the exquisite artistry of the past.

“All our vintage and estate pieces are one of a kind,” Nancy says. “Antique jewelry is really well made,” she adds, showing how even the back of most pieces contain beautiful detail work. There are bow necklaces circa 1840, a cameo ring with a date of 1820, a gorgeous enamel locket unlike anything you’d find in a “regular” jewelry store, and Kate is most

anxious to show off an enamel snake bracelet from 1860, fashioned of 18 karat yellow gold with encrusted diamonds and rubies setting it off.

Pieces in the Shaw collection range from the Victorian and Edwardian periods to the ‘50s, ‘60s, and art deco era.

The older the antique or estate piece, the more interesting and intricate the design.

These pieces speak volumes. They have a

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history all their own and most likely a story behind each of them. In many instances Nancy Shaw can fill in the blanks if it has been brought in by the owner or beneficiary of a behest.

Those that are very old and have been acquired by other means, no doubt have their own story and hidden secrets.

What a wonderful gift for yourself or for someone you love!

As your fingers move slowly over the detailed work, you might perhaps concoct your own story of whose neck or finger or wrist it graced well more than a century ago.

In addition to the vintage and estate pieces, N.L. Shaw features artisan collections such as original jewelry bells by Gordon Barnett, butterfly wings in sterling (none were harmed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; these were gathered from the rain forest after the butterflies had died); and the exclusive Mystic bracelet, showing the actual

latitude and longitude of where you are standing within N.L. Shaw. They are a treasure unto themselves and so very distinctive.

Nancy and Kate are always interested in acquiring something new, the older the better! So if you have unwanted vintage jewelry, or have inherited estate pieces that do not mean as much to you as they will to someone else, bring them to N.L. Shaw for both appraisal and advice.

Magnificent colored gemstones; pieces of art history no one else has, dating back to the 1700s; pocket watches like your great-great grandfather prized; platinum and gold diamond antique and estate engagement rings; and the vast experience of someone who both lives and loves what she does. This is N.L. Shaw in downtown Mystic...respecting the artistry, craftsmanship, and stories that give unequalled richness to the fabric of historyâ&#x20AC;Ś and each, always one of a kind.

Everything old is new again at N.L. Shaw & Company, 50 West Main Street in downtown Mystic www.nlshawandco@sbcglobal.net

(860) 572-5838

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75 Main St., Old Saybrook, CT 860-661-4661 / dagmarsdesserts.com

Litchfield Distillery Ready-to-Drink Cocktail Cans Are Back!

Each delicious cocktail is made with our award-winning spirits and natural ingredients. The Distillery’s signature drink, The Litchfielder, is crafted with our Straight Bourbon while the perfectly tart Spiked Lemonade features our gluten-free Vodka.

So grab some ice and crack one open at your next summer gathering or when you’re just chilling out after a hard day’s work.

Available where Litchfield Distillery spirits are sold.

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Walter Trout - Defying the Odds

by Ali Kaufman / photos by Jayne Tansey-Patron JTP photography In a world full of people hoping for a miracle, Walter Trout is a man that got one….or two.

May 26, 2014 was the date Walter took up residence in a hospital bed in California while trying to fight the Hepatitis C ravaging his liver. He credits his years of hard partying while playing guitar with Canned Heat for necessitating the need for medical intervention.The next eight months brought him right

During his hospitalization, Marie allowed the public to know the brutal reality with her eloquent social media posts that illustrated what being sucked into a world of debilitating illness does to a family. His fans hung on every heartbreaking word and then rejoiced as Walter took steps back to the land of the living. If you are a fan of Walter’s music you should be a bigger fan of Marie’s steadfast

feels things deeply, which can be both a blessing and a curse, but for us fans, it sits squarely in the blessing column as the raw emotion he brings to his music is part of why we can’t get enough of him. Walter feels it is his responsibility to share the information about the life saving gift of organ donation and peppers his live shows with honesty and information to keep paying it forward.

The first album back was the cathartic and haunting Battle Scars that won the 2016 Blues Blast Award for Best Blues Album.The followup album, All In This Together, featuring his mentor, John Mayall and the likes of Joe Bonamassa on the star studded release, left Walter wondering what he could possibly do to top himself! Then he did, with his 28th offering that took only a

to the brink of death, he became a shadow of himself, losing cognitive as well as physical ability.This devoted family man, husband, father, friend, didn’t recognize the people he loved anymore. The odds of survival were clearly stacked against him, but at the last moment, or as close to it as one can come, he was saved by the gift of organ donation and received a new liver. The new lease on life began a hard won comeback that has resulted in some of the best music and certainly the most commercial success of his career.

Everything had to be relearned because of the brain damage suffered, but Walter has a secret weapon...her name is Marie.

Marie Trout married Walter in 1991, she is mother to their three boys, has a PhD, and has been managing his band for the past 25 years.

care and ferocious love of her soulmate that allows us to have him with us today.

Marie has just finished her second book which chronicles what a caregiver goes through. Her first book,The Blues - Why It Still Hurts So Good, came out in 2017. With his Danish born wife’s support, Walter again picked up the guitar and began the arduous task of relearning how to play.When it came back, and when the time came to take a tentative step back onto the stage, they decided to go big...Royal Albert Hall BIG! Marie poignantly introduced Walter’s two songs at the Leadbelly Fest in June of 2016, and the music began to flow through him - just the recounting of this pivotal moment, brings Walter’s emotions to the surface. This is a human being that

few days to put together and garnered the best response of any music he has put out.

Survivor Blues is a collection of obscure blues tunes that are brought back to life, not only thrilling audiences at sold out shows everywhere, but also educating the listener about artists they might never have known existed. Keeping up with a date-laden tour schedule has slowed the roll of the next highly anticipated record, but it is coming! Six original tracks have already been recorded, and the hope is that a break from the road in September will allow for the completion. Beyond that, who knows?

Walter told me he has at least 300 original ideas in various states of development to which he is always adding.

It’s about connecting through the music for me, turn off the spotlight so I can establish eye contact with our audience. It’s never been about the flashy stuff, it is the authenticity of the moment.”

I don’t know how many more of his nine lives this cat(fish) has left, but let’s all hope he keeps on rockin’ us for a very long time to come!

Just as his "adopted father,” John Mayall has always done, Walter surrounds himself with the best musicians and gives them their chance to shine. His band now consists of uber talented Johnny Griparic on bass, powerfully animated Michael Leasure killing it on drums, Teddy Andreadis with his long list of former tours on keys, and Anthony Grisham,lifelong friend of his son Jon, turned tour manager, who sits in and shreds on a few songs.

“I have never felt like a Rock Star,” Trout shared, “I’m of the people, down in the trenches, and understand what folks are going through.

Visit WalterTrout.com to check out upcoming dates in our area and Organdonor.gov to learn more about sharing the gift of life!

RingsEnd.com DARIEN

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And whether White Horse herd in shadow or a Dark Horse herd in light, even the predators (for whom disambiguation is their only business) struggle to get it right. There are too many decisions to make!

Which is the point of it.

Horse of a Different Color Maasai Mara Photos and editorial © Mark Seth Lender Zebra are making themselves painterly.

Spreading out. Milling about. Closing the gap.

Becoming a knot a knitting a… Tapestry.

Abstract. Abstruse. Neither close nor distant on first glance and are they Herd (Indivisible) or Horse (Invisible)?

Or both?

That’s the trick of it.

The lioness furrows her brow (did they give her a migraine?)

The leopard stares, and blinks, as if he cannot focus (has he had too little sleep?).

Jackal packs it in.

Wild Dogs loll their tongues then sit down (as if they have to have a think).

White-backed Vultures (they know what it’s all about) repeat their mantra silently: circle, circle, wait… wait...

While the spotted hyenas (being opportunists) will let Nile crocodiles first sort it all out.

Well, Zebra did not have to go to finishing school to learn that Living is an Art, that One is decoration and strength in numbers is the

only way to save your hide. It is not wisdom, it is just a fact of Nature, there is great danger in going it Alone. Those are the breaks.

There’s little bending: Stand apart and lonely never wrote a Happy Ending.

Field Note: Zebra and wildebeest often herd together. Two reasons are given for the admixture. First, that zebra supposedly prefer to eat tall grasses and wildebeest the shorter grass meaning they do not compete for forage. That said, I have plenty of photographic evidence of wildebeest bending low to graze but when they raise their heads what they are chewing is a mouth full of tall grass. Secondly - and I suspect it is the more compelling reason – zebra have very acute eyesight and wildebeest have an acute sense of hearing. While the one more readily sees predators coming the other hears them, recognizing not only the sound of the predator per se but also the distant alarm calls of other species signaling a predator’s approach.

Turn this around the other way. What does a predator see? Many grazing animals in two convenient sizes

intent on grazing. Tempting. But also, a moving mass of stripes in at least five distinct tonalities (two for zebra, three for blue wildebeest). To human eyes, even when frozen in place in a photograph, the black and white of a group of zebra disguises how many individuals occupy the frame. It takes a moment for the brain

to resolve it. The blue wildebeest of the Maasai Mara have dark brown, light brown, and bluish gray stripes, shadows within shadows, and are at least as much a razzle-dazzle of confusion as the zebra.

I use the term “Razzle-Dazzle” advisedly. During the first world war, ships were painted in broad zigzagging stripes of different width and color. This was

before radar and it made it difficult for spotters to estimate range. Maybe that is also happening here.

How does a predator interpret wildebeest and zebra together, their many shades and colors all milling about in one place? Can that predator tell how many, where they are facing, even how far away they are (meaning can I get there at a dead run and can I execute my attack from behind as is my preference, or will my prey see me coming and already run away?).

It must be quite the challenge for predators, who must commit to a single target for any hope of success, and all the more so in low light. Perhaps that is the key. Put the two together, zebra and wildebeest, and they create a complimentary confusion in the eyes of the hunter, with one or the other being more effective depending on the quality of light (cloudy or bright) and time of day.

Mark Seth Lender is a producer for wildlife content at Living on Earth ( LOE.org ), the only program on US Public Radio exclusively dedicated to wildlife and environmental reporting.

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35 world, worked on televisions shows like Extreme Makeover Home Edition, Bar Rescue, Kitchen Nightmares, and more. Only six years after starting his own enterprise, Ganino realized he couldn't grow his existing business any further. While he had a trusted painting crew, his own involvement at every level was a frustrating necessity.

Social Tuna

A Simple Solution to Effective Social Media Management

By Alletah Ganino.

I

n 2005, Patrick Ganino enjoyed the success of running a thriving decorative painting and mural business. High-end interior designers hired him on behalf of their clients, celebrities hired him for custom murals and finishes, and new clients were willing to join a waiting list several months long. He ran one of the largest online forums for decorative painters, taught classes with renowned artists from all over the

Patrick's online forum turned out to be one key to transitioning his art business into the world of social media management. The International Decorative Artisans Association decided to turn their print magazine into a digital magazine. IDAL's board members had seen Patrick's work on his website and email newsletter and asked him to design and send a monthly digital magazine/newsletter as well as oversee their social media. He began by inviting artists from around the country to contribute articles for the magazine and feature their work on social media, earning a flat monthly fee for a task that took him very little time on a day to day basis. The trick was creating a schedule, consistently sticking to it, and planning the content in advance. Ganino quickly realized his system could be applied to

any business in need of help with their online presence, from blogs and newsletters, to websites and Facebook posts. Again, his career as an artist would prove to be invaluable in growing this new business venture.

After taking on IDALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social media, Patrick decided to offer the same service to the interior designers with whom he had been working for years. He first set up a meeting with Greenwich, Connecticut based designer, Amy Aidinis Hirsch. Although young, Amy had already made a name for herself in the competitive, high-end Greenwich design market. Like most business owners, she was

Facing Page: Jon Lion (left), Len Bonalsky (Right) and Patrick Ganino (seated) looking at dailies for clients. Top left: Image from the social media seminars that Patrick gives to local small businesses educating them on the basics of content creation and interaction. Top right: Using a posting schedule is key to making sure that there is consistency with posts. Above: Shooting footage in the kitchen of herd restaurant with Chef Serge.

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Along the same lines, Patrick emphasizes the importance of positivity. Social media posts on both your business and personal pages should avoid negativity, complaints, and overall bad news. Save those interactions for private conversations with close family and friends. People will naturally associate your personal social media with your business, so keep the negativity off the internet. You want to build a positive perception of yourself and your business!

other designers came on board, Patrick made his new venture official, dubbing it Social Tuna.

too involved running her own company to take the time to manage a blog, effectively utilize Facebook, or update her website.

Patrick adjusted the plan he used for IDAL to create a tailored approach to Amy's social media. It featured regular design blogs, a custom email newsletter, an updated profile on Houzz (an online hub for interior designers), and consistent, quality posts to Facebook and, eventually Instagram. As

Social Tuna is more than willing to share their social media advice with businesses. Patrick believes strongly in key concepts for a company's online presence and will happily pass his expertise on to anyone, clients or not. According to him, the goal of social media is pretty straightforward: You want to engage with your audience, provide relevant and informative content, drive traffic to your website, attract customers, and grow your business. You can't do any of these things if you offend or alienate anyone, so Patrick strongly encourages everyone to avoid discussing politics and religion on social media. No one ever had their mind changed by a meme, so it's best to steer clear entirely.

Other than avoiding politics, religion, and negativity, what should a company share on social media? The keyword for content is â&#x20AC;&#x153;quality.â&#x20AC;? Spend some time browsing social media for similar businesses, and make a note of which accounts are doing well and what types of posts seem the most engaging.

Photos you post should be clear, bright, and attractive. Avoid posting an excessive number of ads or using the same images over and over. For example, if your restaurant hosts a Trivia Night every Thursday, don't fall into the lazy habit of posting the same trivia night promo every week. Instead, post a photo of people having fun at a past trivia night or share a photo of your smiling staff gearing up to welcome patrons. Photos featuring you, your staff, or your customers will

Top left: Promos for local gym Core Club. Top right: Show credit from the series Tattoo Rescue which we headed the social media on. Bottom left: At Darren Princeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book launch in NYC with Magic Johnson and Dr Drew. We were an integral part on the social media front promoting this book.

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always receive a better response than photos without people in them. If your social media primarily consists of your work portfolios, such as interior design or artwork, make sure to include photos of yourself at work or behind the scenes. Your audience is more interested in the process than you might think, so go ahead and share those work-inprogress photos or those before and after images. As you share content, make a note of the types of posts that earn the most comments and likes, and adjust your social media content accordingly.

One of the biggest challenges businesses owners face with social media is consistency. Help yourself commit to posting regularly by planning ahead. Instead of asking yourself, "What should I post today?” Patrick suggests you have at the ready several photos and videos from which to choose in advance.

Spend some time taking several pictures and videos, then save them to use over the next few weeks. If you plan to be in the photos, change your outfit a couple of times, and no one will know you aren't posting as you go.

You'll have new content ready to use and be

much less likely to procrastinate or forget to update your social media. Tools like Google Drive make it easy to store and access social media content from anywhere, whether you're in your office, traveling, or working offsite.

The staff at Social Tuna prepares 30 days worth of content in advance for each client, a strategy Patrick endorses for businesses who want to maintain a consistent social media presence.

Another powerful tool Ganino encourages business owners to utilize is a robust email database. By collecting customer email addresses, a business can use an email marketing campaign such as Constant Contact to stay in touch with clients.

Unlike social media platforms which change over time, an email database is something you own and over which you maintain control. A monthly email newsletter to your customer base keeps your business visible, helps drive traffic to your website, and lets your customers stay up to date on your successes, sales, and events. Patrick compares the email newsletter to “touching tables” at a restaurant. You’re letting your customers know you’re there if they need anything.

Sticking to an effective and consistent social media campaign can certainly be a daily grind for a busy owner. With the right strategy, the right tools, and a little advance planning, social media can be a powerful way to connect with your customers. It’s a daily task that never ends but can be incredibly fruitful

Top right: Behind the camera for a video shoot with Katie Knight for WOW work out world a long standing client. Bottom left: Doing a LIVE facebook video with Russell Simmons in Long Island. Bottom Left: At Darren Prince’s book launch in NYC with Magic Johnson and Dr Drew. We were an integral part on the social media front promoting this book. Bottom left: Content creation is key for a successful social media campaign. Brainstorming session are a daily routine to stay fresh when creating interesting visuals for clients.

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Plan Your Seaside Escape Join us all week long!

Lobster specials & live music:

JUNE 24TH - SEPTEMBER 2ND

Monday, July 1st

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Tuesday, July 2nd

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Wednesday, July 3rd Nick Fradiani, Sr. Thursday, July 4th

Straight Up

6pm - 9pm Learn more at: Saybrook.com 2 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook, CT 06475|(860)395-3245

Learn more at: Saybrook.com

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Saturday, July 6th 5:30-8:30 pm Connecticut Artist Group Opening Reception on display through August 3rd.

Award winning CT artists show in a variety of mediums.

This is a show that you will not want to miss! Oil painting titled " Joe Pye Weed" by Bernard McTigue Sunday, July 7th, 12:00-4:00 pm Opening reception, "The Eyes Have It- A Visual Feast" Solo exhibition by Dennis O'Brien on display until Aug 3rd. So many eyes but, do they look the same? Do they send the same messages?

Are the materials, subject matter, or world views similar?

You be the judge.

Friday, July 12th 6:30- 9:00 pm Latino trio band Benny Valazquez. Doors open at 6 pm Donation $10.00 Cash bar 21+

Saturday July 13th, 4:00 pm- 11:00 pm FIESTA LATINA in the Art Park. Come celebrate Sailfest with some Latin flavor!

Featuring Yordy the Voice, Grupo Tentacion, and Orquestra Afinke. Hosted by Angelly Sureil, and Zumba by Anabel Collado-Montalbano. After the Sailfest fireworks Dance Party 9-11 pm with DJ Rich 1! It's going to be a great summer party!

Donation $5.00 Cash bar 21+

BENNY ANDERSSON AND BJORN ULVAEUS STIG ANDERSON BOOK BY CATHERINE JOHNSON - ORIGINALLY CONCEIVED BY JUDY CRAYMER MUSIC AND LYRICS BY

AND SOME SONGS WITH

JUNE 26 - JULY 28 5 W E E KS

FO R T I C KE T S , VI S I T IVO RYT O N PLAYHO USE . O RG

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Saturday July 13th 10:00 am- 8:00 pm & Sunday July 14th 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Hygienic's Artisan Market.

In true Hygienic spirit, the Hygienic Artisan Market offers over 40 artisan booths and will occupy all of Bank Street. This is a festive, outdoor market space where people can expect the unexpected, and unearth signature crafts from artisans who create the unusual as well as beautiful Hygienic Art has collaborated with Sailfest New London to incorporate an additional artistic element into the city's largest weekend festival.

Sunday, July 14th 2:00pm- 5pm Shoreline American Music School. Performers on guitar, banjo, violin and mandolin will take the stage at the Hygienic Art Park in New London during the 13th annual Acoustic Music Festival. “This is a fun, free event showcasing popular performers from the region,” said Paul Carolan of New London, festival organizer.This year’s performers include Sherwood, Ray Lange, Whiskey & Aspirin, Bruce McDermott, Roger Viens, Mike Bailey, and The Fagins and Friends.

Free admission All ages welcome, Cash bar 21+ to drink Saturday, July 20th 7-11 pm SKA PROM 2019.

The annual prom-themed SKA show extravaganza complete with live music! Wear prom attire if you like (not required) , as there will be a prom photo booth.

Mixing rock instruments with a full horn section and delivering an enthusiastic live performance, Llama Tsunami is proud to be a ska band, inspiring sing-alongs since 2008. The Copacetics will perform as well! Enjoy full night of fun and dancing, Cash food and bar will round out the festivities! Advance ticket $10.00 available on line and $15.00 at the door.

More information about all our upcoming exhibitions and events at www.hygienic.org Follow us on Facebook.

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Above: Jam & Squeeze beginning their odyssey. Inset: PCT map above by Dolly Holmes (map design) and Liz "Snorkel" Thomas (research and words.)

For more information visit https://www.backpacker.com/trips/pacific-crest-trail-map

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Jam & Squeeze on the PCT: Part 1

By John Tolmie / Photos by Julia Manavas

T

he Pacific Crest Trail, commonly known as the “PCT” is a 2,652 mile hiking trail that transverses the United States from the border of Mexico to the border of Canada.

From the searing hot Californian desert to ice covered mountains to vast grass lands to lush Oregonian forests and finally through the craggy mountains of Washington, the PCT is the pinnacle of endurance for through hikers. In early April, hikers head north to reach the Canadian border by midSeptember before the early high-elevation winters. In April of 2018 two native Nutmeggers, a petite young lady and her

Julia’s’ smiles and her eyes brighten, “So his first hike ever was the hardest trail in the White Mountains!”

burly bearded husband, took their first step north that would tests all of their mental, emotional, spiritual and physical faculties.

She explains that her family had a tight budget during her childhood so camping was their mainstay of vacationing and often summered in the wilderness of New Hampshire. “I went

Nicholas and Julia met in High school and became close friends. “He was my best guy friend and about a month after we graduated he tells me he likes me,” Julia laughs, “I said, ‘I like you back!’ And because of my background I was the one who introduced him to backpacking.” Nicholas interjects, “2009 was my first backpacking trip and we went to New Hampshire with her family.

I was the captain on the wrestling team and thought I could do anything! I said ‘what’s the hardest hike in New Hampshire!?’ So her family takes me to Huntington’s Ravine on Mount Washington. I was like bring it on!”

through an angsty time in my youth where I wanted to go to Disney Land, but as I grew older I became aware of my deep love for the outdoors. My first backpacking trip was right before college where I did a 12 day backpacking trip and

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apart.” They would take their socks off and bang them against a picnic table and clouds of dust would erupt from them. Julia laughs and explains, “We would do that 20 times and could never get all the crust completely out!”

I loved it. My family loves hiking and camping but backpacking is a whole other deal. You are going to stink and your skin is going to crawl and you just have to accept that you are going to feel very uncomfortable! It’s not for everybody.” Nicholas interjects that while on the PCT they once went 17 days without showering. “I’m like a toddler. I don’t like to bathe. I like eating junk food. So trail life is really ideal for me. I was so crusty that my socks would crack open and my cloths would just break

Nicholas had suddenly and tragically lost his younger brother Matthew in April of 2017. The brothers worked as ship builders at Electric Boat in Groton and had looked forward to a long career working side by side. “Everyone who experiences tragedy has to find their own path to recovery and happiness,” Nicholas explains, “I don’t know where that path would take me but I knew it would begin on the Pacific Crest Trail.” Life seemed too short in that moment for Nicholas and so he and his bride decided to make the most of life and honor Matthew by taking him in their hearts while on one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes in America.

The adventurous couple started their journey at the border of Mexico in

mid-April, “We started on the border right at the wall on the U.S. side. There is a monument that stands at the beginning of the trail, so we snapped a picture of ourselves and just started walking.” They started their six month trek when the heat of the desert is somewhat bearable. As they made their way north they would traverse 700 miles of quintessential southern California Desert rife with cactus, lizards, rattlesnakes, deep sand, jagged rock, cold nights and increasing heat as the spring season faded behind them.

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“Our hottest day was after we climbed down from San Jacinto Peak which is one the highest peaks in Southern California. We dropped down 8,000 feet into the desert valley and the heat was absolutely insane.” Nicholas and Julia did their best to find shade by resting during daylight but the epic heat of the day was always inescapable.

They became friends with several other people in their “Trail Family”. At about 70 miles into the desert they would meet ‘Milk Shake’ or ‘Milky’ for short, a female German national that had the same intention of reaching the Canadian border. “The trail rapidly accelerates friendships and you become very close to people you are hiking with in a very short time. Milky was with us through the majority of our trip and we became extremely close. We still talk every day. ” On the trail hikers are given ‘Trail Names’ by others hikers. Nicholas had purchased a sleeping bag from a European manufacturer and an extra-large bag fit like a sized medium. “I cowboy camped outside in my sleeping bag for the first several hundred miles and people noticed me trying to squeeze myself into this tiny bag. So that’s how I got the name ‘Squeeze!’” Julia said her name wasn’t garnered from comedy but rather from her maiden name. “Berry was my maiden name and when I got married to Nicholas my initials spelled JAM, so that kind of stuck.”

In Late May Jam, Squeeze and Milky had made it through the desert and came to Kennedy Meadows, a vast grass land that is the gateway to the High Sierras. They treasured their time hiking in the desert but after two months, they were more than ready to move on. “One day we come around a corner and there’s this beautiful meadow and in the background and I get my first real glimpse of the High Sierras with their huge snow covered peaks.” Squeeze exclaims, “I literally put my arms in the air and yelled! I was so excited! For me, seeing those peaks was the most inspiring part of the hike!” Kennedy Meadows is where hikers congregate and prepare for the trek into the Sierra Mountains. This is where Squeeze and Jam split off from Milky and the other members of their trail family. “It was hard because we had spent so much time together on the trail but she was going to hitch-hike into Las Angeles to see a Paul Simon concert.”

The hikers congregating in Kennedy Meadows were waiting for the snow to melt a bit more as

the Sierras had been hit with unseasonal storms. Jam explains that, “Right when we arrived there was a lot of fear mongering at the gear shop. Rumors of people falling into deep pockets in the snow were buzzing about.”

Other hikers were trying to dissuade Squeeze and Jam from heading into the mountains and urged them to wait for a better thaw. Postings in the gear shops warned not to enter the Sierras without cramp-ons, ice axes and other ice climbing gear. “It’s so easy to get sucked into the fear mongering.” Jam explains, “I was ready to sit it out thinking ‘maybe we should let the snow melt a bit more’ I was really nervous. But Squeeze wouldn’t have it.”

Other hikers were arriving in droves and those that gave into the rumors wound up camping in the grass lands for weeks. “But not us,” Jam says, “We arrived at 5 o’clock in the afternoon and we were off into the mountains by noon the next day.”

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Through their leg in the desert they quickly found out that a little space between them was good for a healthy marriage. Since Squeeze hiked at a faster pace he would move on ahead while Milky, Jam and other members of their trail family made their way at their own pace. They would take breaks together usually at a river as water was a constant issue in the arid terrain. However, with the departure of Milky, it was just down to the two of them.

Almost in unison Jam and Squeeze brighten up and gush about this special time as they headed into the Sierra’s as a couple. Hiking through the Sierras is the most dangerous and arduous part of the PCT. Solo hiking is strongly deterred and lone hikers are encouraged to join up with someone else or in a group. “It was really special for us. This is when we not only wanted to stick together but we had too.

Timing the passes is critical,” Jam explains, “Snow melts during the day and turns into slush. So your footing can be compromised and you can literally slip off the mountain.

Also traversing the raging rivers from the runoff are incredibly dangerous. It’s like a double edge sword. It’s nice that the snow is melting

but that means higher water during our river crossings.” During the nights the melted snow re-freezes at the higher elevations. It was essential for Jam and Squeeze to wake up

early in order to climb on the frozen hard pack and make it over a pass before the sun warms and melts the snow.

Once in the High Sierras the hiking became a grueling and spectacular endeavor. Day after day they perfectly timed their hikes over the snow packed passes. One day in particular Jam was extremely tired and needed a few

extra hours of sleep. “We had timed all the other passes just right but in my diva moment I just really wanted to sleep in.” Julia says, “Squeeze tried to get me up but I just wouldn’t have it!” After breaking camp they started up the mountain much later and the snow pack started to melt. Since Jam was much lighter than Squeeze she pranced across the melting hard pack. However, Squeeze started falling into the deep pockets up to his armpits.

“For eight miles I broke through the top crust over and over again.

I couldn’t even crawl. No matter what I did I couldn’t make any progress.” Exhausted, bruised and scratched, Nicholas bowed his head and just stopped moving.

Jam tried to convince him to move on but Squeeze absolutely refused to budge. “I knew we were in really big trouble. He was spent beyond all. I really didn’t know how we were going to make it down the mountain and I was kicking myself for sleeping in that morning.” All alone at over 10,000 feet of elevation, the fear that Jam and Squeeze had ignored at Kennedy Meadows had suddenly and eminently come to fruition. …to be continued.

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ORIGINAL WORKS OF HIRAM BINGHAM IV The FIRST EVER public viewing of the works of Hiram Bingham IV, friend and confidant of Marc Chagall!

Opening Reception July 13, 5-8pm Come see!

New “Abstracts” show runs through October 13th 22 Darling Road, Salem 860.608.6526 Thurs-Sun 10-7 salemredhouse.com

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If you must break apart, do it together.

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Summer in New England July 2 to Sept 2, 2019

Del-Bourree Bach, Cool Hollow, Acrylic, 16 x 24”

Jeanne Rosier Smith, Ocean Blue, Pastel, 20 x 60”

Susan Powell Fine Art 679 Boston Post Road Madison, CT 203 . 318 . 0616 www.susanpowellfineart.com Del-Bourree Bach, One Way or the Other, Acrylic, 8 x 14”

Susan Jositas, Remembrance, Oil, 24 x 36”

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No "R" in July? Well, SHUCKS! An Oyster Farm Tour on Hummock Island

By Susan Cornell

O

ne of the most widely known and enigmatic myths about oysters is the R rule - raw oysters are not safe to eat during months that do not contain the letter R in their name.

Although this tenet, which probably started in the days before refrigeration, once served a pretty good purpose, it definitely does not hold true today. It was a “Top 10” 78-degree June afternoon when I visited Hummock Island to suck and slurp oysters from a tidal pool just off wealthy Westport. Okay, not just any oysters – but really amazing ones that are featured at some of the premiere restaurants in the world.

Hummock Island Oyster Company is known for

outstanding oysters with distribution in New York, Boston, and Pennsylvania and an impressive menu of high-end clients including The Whelk, Pearl at Longshore, and Blue Hill at Stone Barns.

The company recently started offering “oyster tours,” giving oyster and nature lovers the chance to visit Hummock Island, observe the operation, get a shucking lesson, and taste freshly harvested oysters.

It all began in 1741 at Sherwood Mill Pond, when it was awarded a grant by the British King. In the mid-1800s, a house for a full-time “oyster guard” was erected in the center.

Since 1857, the

Northrop family has owned the exclusive shellfishing rights to the pond, which was farmed for clams and oysters up until the late 1950s. The farm is still family run, captained by Jeff Northrop Sr. with his son Jeff Northrop Jr., who recently left the hedge fund world to help his dad in the oyster world.

With Jeff Jr.’s Wall Street background, he was able to raise substantial venture capital – nearly $2 million from prominent venture capitalists - to position this old industry for the 21st century. Not only did he re-imagine the old-world family operation as a technology

56 introduction, she took us to the boat launch in a beachy preserve across the street.

From there, we motored across the pond in a reproduction flat-bottom wooden oyster boat (a “New Haven sharpie”). Northrop said they try to keep everything as authentic as possible.

“Sharpies,” he added, “have really been used since the beginning of oystering.”

Group sizes are small - a max of 20 - for a more intimate experience.

“My dad represents the old school, family values, and how it was done a long time ago.

We have this Yin and Yang of the traditional with the modern, which compliments each other very well,” Jeff Jr. explained.

On our expedition, he pointed out the numerous oyster cages floating in the water.

Each cage houses around 1000 oysters. Which brings us to another myth, Eating oysters is bad for the environment. It sounds counter-intuitive, but consuming these bizarre, sexy mollusks actually helps the environment because it keeps the bivalves' backers in business.

Our group of six met our tour guide, Beth, at Elvira’s Market in Westport. After a brief

Because of their presence, the guide says, the water in the pond

company in the business of oyster farming, but also the father-son duo started offering “oyster tours.”

is about 44% cleaner than Long Island Sound.

“What they’re cleaning is not heavy metals or sewage, but nitrogen, a natural nutrient in the water that you need for algae growth.”

According to Northrop, “The site we have is more or less the perfect storm of growing conditions for oysters: really shallow fast-flowing water, nutrient-rich algae for the oysters to feed on, just the right level of salt, and clean waterways.”

Soon after joining his dad, Jeff Jr. became obsessed with finding more efficient ways to farm oysters. “It’s an industry that more or less has operated the same way for hundreds of years. They’re still using the same equipment they used 60 years ago. I saw that, and realized it’s not just inefficient, but terrible for the environment. The rakes and dredges they use

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are terrible for the bottom of the ocean. It’s just a dumb way of doing things. It requires a lot of manual backbreaking labor,” he explained. He traveled the world to find other ways to farm.

“Of course, every other country had a better way to do it than we did. They had a system that was faster, more accurate, and had better survival rates for the crops. They were really trying to trouble-shoot the ancient way of doing it, and we were not. That really bothered me.”

The venture capitalists who came to the rescue “were looking to make a 100x return on their investments – they’re really looking for that industry of unicorns.” Let’s call Jr. the “Oyster of Wall Street”.

In re-imaging the farming side, he traveled to Australia and France and discovered really neat innovations. “They had protective cages suspended in the water columns above the sea floor. Oysters weren’t accessible to predators, grew much faster, and were much closer to the surface of the water, which meant they were getting a higher quality algae.”

Hummock now grows theirs in suspended baskets on a longline. “The waves keep them rocking back and forth, they actually like some wave action. We also have technology that helps to process them. It’s more efficient and accurate.”

The 83-acre inter-tidal salt pond owned by the family renews 660,000 cubic meters of water every six hours and is capable of producing up to 60 million oysters per year. Tours, he admitted, became a much bigger revenue stream for the company than they imagined. The idea was really an accident. Renowned chef, Dan Barber was out with a Blue Hill group for a wonderful day and asked, “Why don’t you do farm tours?

People would pay for the experience.”

You’ll need to shell out a few clams - $100 for a 1 ½ hour tour. “That’s

the going rate for oyster farm tours. You’re getting an incredible experience and all-youcan-eat oysters,” Northrop said and added, “If you think about it, you go to a restaurant, and you’ll pay $3.50 an oyster. On the tour you can easily eat 40 of them. The oyster value alone is crazy!” Observes Northrop, “People really want luxury experiences instead of things these days, that’s been great for us. In an era where everyone has everything, there’s nothing like getting a one-of-a-kind unique experience as a gift. You can never replicate it.”

When we landed, we were greeted with fresh oysters to try. We were given time to explore the main house and its historic contents, ranging from original furniture to old photos, and paddles constructed by one of the “oyster guards.”

The unique little island is fun to check out. It consists of the main house with a deck and Adirondack chairs in which to relax, and what appears to be another small house, but is in fact a boat – officially, as per its State of Connecticut Vessel Registration. The island is also home to an enormous “oyster tumbler,”which sorts oysters by size. Shucking lessons, history lessons, and an explanation of how shellfish

keep the ocean and coastal ecosystems clean are given in the smaller digs/boat. Most importantly, there was plenty of opening and eating, opening and eating. Of course you need something to wash down those salty critters, and bringing your own beverage of choice is encouraged.

A bit of advice: allow of extra time for parking.

The Westport beach area is picturesque, but that also means people. There’s some street parking, but if those spaces are taken, you will find yourself circling for an available spot. Definitely consider a drop-off or Uber.

Hummock Island is also available for private events, weddings, photo shoots, and company day trips.

Tours are sold exclusively on the website, hummockisland.com and are offered June through September.

Oysters are all-youcan-eat, and tours are also BYOB, which brings us to our final myth regarding oysters: Raw oysters are an aphrodisiac and will cure a hangover. Sadly, there is no scientific evidence that either is true

PLEASE JOIN US FOR FIRST FRIDAY, JULY 5th, 2019 FROM 5 - 8 pm FOR AN EHHIBIT OF NEW PAINTINGS FROM HIS HOME & TRAVELS BY LEIF NILSSON WITH LIVE MUSIC BY ARROWHEAD. CONCERTS IN THE GARDEN SATURDAY NIGHTS 7 - 9 PM THROUGH AUGUST 17TH July 6 - Michelle Walker and Opius Bliss, July 13 - Someone you can XRAY, July 20 - Empire of Light, July 27 - Arrowhead, August 3 - Cruise, Blues and Brews Fundraiser, August 10 - Old Dog New Trick, August 17 - Shorebreak.

Arrowhead strings along on most Sunday afternoons. Find out about the Concerts in the Garden, First Fridays, Leifs paintings, prints and more at

www nilssonstudio com ww

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Navy Divers: A Reunion By: John Tolmie Diving is among the most physically demanding occupations in the U.S. Navy. Becoming a Navy diver requires the completion of arduous physical and mental training. Divers are subjected to consistent physical labor exacerbated by the hazards of the aquatic environment using cumbersome gear while working in dark, cold and enclosed spaces. Due to this type of work, the camaraderie amongst divers grows quickly and remains strong even after the end of military service. The divers with whom I served would maintain close friendships over the years and would continue diving together well into civilian life.

Ditching all the heavy gear, many of us have adapted to freediving where we use long fins, a snorkel and dive on a single breath down with speargun in hand to harvest the bounty of the sea. Ulisses “Lucky” Marrero, Dave Brannan, Kelly Gillette and I

were on our first away dive trip together in over 20 years and this time there were no orders to be followed. It was time to bask in the sun and in our friendship while off to hunt warm southern blue waters.

Our first dive would be at an artificial reef 30 miles off Florida’s west coast. On my first drop down I saw a school of barracuda racing along. I chose the largest of the brood and took my shot. I had never seen a fish this big and when I pulled the trigger I had no idea what to expect. My aim

was true and the creature sped off taking me on a 10 minute sleigh ride. The beast would dive and take me with it as I desperately tried to keep it from reaching the reef below. I have a large spooled reel on my speargun and would pay out line so I could reach the surface for a breath. Then I would try and reel the line back in before another underwater rodeo.

Again and again I did my best to get a breath while maintaining some type of control.

However, I had underestimated the power of this fish. After an unnerving fight, the barracuda finally stopped running.

Towing a grown man around

61 had exhausted it. Taking care not to wind up with some gnarly scars from its toothed maw, I quickly swam up behind the fish, grabbed its tail and jammed in my hand in its gills. I bear hugged it while simultaneously knifing it through the spine to end the hunt. Dogtired I swam the giant to the boat.

Dave was hooting his jovial laugh, “Dude I watched the whole thing.

That was insane! Looked like something straight out of Jaws!” The captain gaffed it over the side and agreed, “Yup, that’s the biggest one I’ve ever seen! You probably shouldn’t shoot anymore of those big ones John.” I get back on deck

“I saw this guy swimming with a couple of reef sharks. It took me a second to realize what it was!”

for a break and see that Dave had shot a few nice sheepshead and some delicious mangrove snapper. As we are high-fiving Kelly swims to the boat with a 35lb cobia saying,

After the reef excursion, the captain takes us to wreck resting at 70’ where a vortex of bait fish swirled from the surface down to the bottom. I dive blindly through the whirling silver school and finally view the wreck below me. I moved towards the bow and the bow moved. My mind finally got it straight and the bow was actually a giant goliath grouper moving back under the wreck. It was seven feet long and when I saw its mouth I knew I could fit my entire body into it. I gave it some space and swam up where I witness Lucky skewer a nice king mackerel. We pop to the surface and he announces in his rolling Dominican accent that, “these babies are delicious. We gonna eat good tonight bro!”

He flashes his bright grin and heads back down to harvest a few more kings.

We had an awesome two days together on Mother Ocean. After filleting our bounty of hogfish, cobia, permit, snapper, sheepshead, mackerel, amberjack and barracuda we showered up and headed to Crabby Bills.

They

cooked our catch three different ways and we ate our full while reminiscing about old times and new over cold beers under the hot Floridian sun.

For more information on fishing and diving the Gulf Coast of Florida please contact Captain Frank at (813) 394-5077 who offers discounted rates for Veterans and Active Duty Military

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Shelter Island: Travels from A Broad Broaden the mind, expand the heart, feed the soul. Travel.

Photos and profile by Caryn B. Davis

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helter Island, New York is quiet. And that’s surprising, considering its year round population of 2,400 more than quadruples in the summer between the influx of tourists and the return of seasonal residents.

Still, compared to the glitz and glamour of the nearby Hamptons with the obligatory Starbucks on every corner, this four-by-five mile hamlet has managed to maintain a low profile, and the islanders like it that way.

Here you will find no chain stores, no malls, and no brand name hotels. But they do have two hardware stores, one grocery, one pharmacy, one craft brewery, plenty of small eateries and restaurants, and a variety of accommodations that range from guesthouses to inns to quaint hotels. There are also no traffic lights, which is absolutely stunning in this day and age, but it serves as a reminder of how much

this community values its old world charm and the effort put forth to retain it.

It’s fairly easy to get to by boat from Connecticut, but if you don’t own your own, you can take the Cross Sound Ferry from

under ten minutes, and the view is so serenely spectacular, that by the time you disembark, relaxation will have already set in. Now it’s time to kick back and enjoy all the sun, sand, and surf this no frills island has to offer.

The road from the ferry leads to all other parts of the island after meandering past Shelter Island Heights. This is a tree lined neighborhood filled with lovingly restored and well maintained homes representing Colonial Revival, Stick-Eastlake, Queen Anne, and Victorian Gothic architecture, the latter which sprang up in the late 1800s as part of a Methodist camp.

New London to Orient Point; and then bus, drive, or bike the nine miles into Greenport where the Shelter Island Ferry will carry you across the Peconic River. The ride is just

There are five public beaches on the island (Crescent, Wades, Shell, Menhaden Lane, and Fresh Pond), all with sugary sand and crystal clear waters.

Crescent Beach extends into Sunset Beach with no real delineation, and from there you can enjoy a drink at the open air Sunset

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Beach Bar and Restaurant directly across the road and dine on fresh seafood and organic vegetables procured from local fishermen and farmers. There is a small boutique hotel on site, with all the rooms facing the water.

As an overnight guest, you are entitled to some very chic looking, brightly colored yellow beach umbrellas, along with complimentary chairs and towels.

All the beaches are free, but you will need a parking permit for your car. The Town Clerk’s office only grants ten passes a day to visitors to prevent overcrowding and to leave parking space available for residents, so best to get there early. Still, I found plenty of seaside options off the beaten track where I was, at times, the only person on a particular stretch of sand. Nobody will bother you as long as you are not doing anything bothersome. And if you are circumnavigating the island by boat as opposed to land, the options are even greater. There are many creeks, coves, and bays to duck into where

lack of privacy is of no consequence.

The island has three harbors with marinas Cockles, West Neck, and Dering, but only Dering Harbor has amenities such as shops and eateries because the harbor is located in

the village. It is less than half a city block in length, but here you will find The Dory where you can dine out back al fresco on a wooden deck with a view of the swampy looking Chase Creek. You can also eat inside and get the same scene, minus the bugs. It’s

open air as well, but with a roof. It sort of resembles a tiki bar complete with a plastic palm tree covered in lights, but the discolored fronds hanging loosely above the bar itself, doesn’t quite translate. It’s definitely kitschy, but that’s half the fun.

The front room also has a bar and a pool table with plenty of friendly locals that will give you good recommendations and directions if you ask.

Jack’s True Value hardware store and Bliss’ Department Store are across the street.

Bliss has been owned and operated by the Bliss family for three generations. It is a good old fashioned, proper department store, and probably the last of its kind.

They carry a little bit of everything. In other words, all those items you didn’t know you needed but have somehow made their way into your shopping basket. Right next door is Marie Eiffel Market, a well stocked specialty foods market with delectable desserts and dockside dining. Marie also has a clothing store with a French flair in the Heights.

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69 of life here is about, whether you are on vacation, or reside here year round. There are 15 other preserves as well, so you can practically walk from one end of the island to the other without setting foot on the road. Monarch butterflies use the island as a stopping point during their migration, and a variety of sea birds are of

The only other major concentrated shopping hub, if you can call it that, is further afield, a mere seven minutes away by car in the middle of the island on North Ferry Road, aka. Route 114. This is where the town’s municipal buildings are located, along with Black Cat Books, Shelter Island Craft Brewery, and a few restaurants and gift shops sprinkled throughout.

Two thousands acres of this 8,000 acre haven have been dictated to create the Mashomack Preserve. It is comprised of 15 miles of woodlands, meadows, and salt marshes managed by the Nature Conservancy. Walking trailside is a great way to really absorb the pristine beauty of the island’s interior and coastline and at a much slower pace, which is what so much

course, always abundant, should staring at our feathered friends through a spyglass trip your trigger.

So, if you are looking for a true island paradise that’s easy to get to, without the pretense of the Hamptons or the crowds of the Cape, Shelter Island might just suit!

For further information visit shelterislandchamber.org (631) 749-0399 It’s located at 47 W. Neck Road

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The

Cheesemonger Paul Partica, The Cheese Shop, Centerbrook CT

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Summer Cheese Let’s put the number one appetizer to work for the summer. We know how easy and how enjoyable cheese is the rest of the year.

Other ingredients pair well with watermelon and feta. Some enjoy adding fresh avocado or even a squeeze of lime juice. For a little crunch, walnuts or pecans are among my favorite add-ins.

Barbecues and Cheese

Fresh Mozzarella & Tomatoes:

How about melting real cheese on you next burger instead of processed cheese. Here are some of our favorites.

Dutch Beemster Vlaskaas: This is one of our longtime favorite cheeses. It is a cow’s milk Gouda cheese that’s aged for twelve months. We consider this a medium aged gouda. It has a nice creamy flavor with a slight yellow appearance due to the annatto natural coloring present. It makes a great Mac and Cheese and it will help fool the kiddies who still will not eat white Mac and Cheese. Remember, all cheese is naturally white, if you see any color then there is color added. This cheese pairs well with red grapes and walnuts. It’s also great shredded on chili and nachos.

A staple in most Italian restaurants, Caprese salad is so common it is easy to overlook. But I would be remiss in my job as cheese monger if I did not at least mention it. Toppings include fresh basil, olive oil and Balsamic vinegar or a fresh Pesto.

Did you know? So many people use goat cheese and blue cheese as a salad topping but did you know you can freeze both cheeses and then grate them directly on to your salad when needed. The frozen pieces will defrost almost instantly. This actually makes it easier to spread the cheese evenly over your salad and it eliminates waste. I guarantee you will not taste the difference.

Summer Desserts, Triple Crèmes, Pears and Dessert Wines English Cotswold: The cheese is flavored with onion and chive and it also uses annatto for yellow coloring. A favorite for cheese trays but nice on burgers. Like many English cheeses, it uses a mild cheddar base.

Blue Cheese: I don’t have to be specific as to what blue or what country because any blue is great melted on a burger or a steak for that matter. This process is usually done at the last minute before taking burgers off the grill. You can also try adding a little blue to your raw burgers if you make your own patties.

Include chopped onions and mushrooms for an added zest.

A triple crème is a soft-ripening cheese similar to Brie, but butterfat content is increased to 75%. When in good condition, triple crèmes should be extremely soft and runny with a white, bloomy outer layer. If overripe, you will see an outside layer of brown and it will have an ammoniated taste. This condition means the cheese is ruined, spoiling any attempt at creating a great dessert. Many of these types of cheeses have been over-stabilized to provide longer shelf life for supermarkets, but in so doing have been ruined. I suggest you not look for a specific name, but rather a triple crème that is in perfect condition. There are many cheeses I no longer carry because of over-stabilization. The triple crèmes I do buy are a result of their condition, not their name. This is really a classic instance of a cheese to try before you buy.

Milder Choices Try using Italian Fontina and Italian Fontal for a quick melting topping. They are used in many of Italian recipes. They are very creamy and mild which won’t take away from any other subtle flavorings you might be adding. A longtime favorite cheese is Cruculo from Trantino Italy. This is a great quick melting cheese that I use in making pizzas instead of mozzarella. It melts quickly and adds a tangy flavor without over powering other flavors.

The other part of this pairing is the wine. Be careful to choose a white wine that is sweet due to grapes that have been allowed to over-ripen on the vine.

This creates a preferred natural sweetness compared to a wine made with added sugar. Naturally sweetened wines can be expensive and are often hard to find. Examples include dessert wines such as French Sauterne and Barsac, German Auslese, Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese, and many available Ice wines.

Summer Raclette

Try to buy pears that are still a little on the firm side because you will be using them like a cracker. Spread the triple crème on the pear and if you have it drizzle on a little Acacia honey and be sure to follow the bite with a taste of wine. Even a dry red wine drinker like me loves this combination.

I know most of us think of Raclette as that winter dish sitting by the fireplace but the new Swiss Raclette cookers are so much more. With the addition of the top grill we find ourselves using the cooker as much during the summer.

The reason for this is the ability to grill shrimp, scallops, salmon, steak, sausage, vegetables, etc. and of course a little melted cheese to have a great Raclette-Beef Fondue going on. You can add some Mango ginger sauce for the shrimp, steak sauce for the beef, pesto for everything, or even some Bearnaise Sauce. Add a side salad and you have a fun creative Summer meal.

And best of all, you can prepare everything in advance and everyone can cook at their own pace.

Summer Salads Cheese is a great topping for so many types of salads. Reggiano on Caesars, blue cheese on Cobb salads, Gorgonzola in vinaigrettes with walnuts, or my go to dressing, creamy blue cheese dressing on any salad. Where would Buffalo Wings be without it?

Feta and Watermelon: Here’s one you might not have tried.

This is a simple but delightfully refreshing salad that can even be served as a dessert. Start by balling or cubing watermelon in a bowl. Then add small chunks of feta. You can stop here if you want or get a little creative. Try a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or some fresh, julienned mint or basil sprinkled over top.

Although this great combination of flavors can be served as an appetizer or anytime snack, it is truly a great dessert. In addition to pears, you can also use strawberries or other fruits.

Enjoy.

Paul Partica, The Cheese Shop www.cheeseshopcenterbrook.com

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By Art LiPuma, General Manager SeaSide Wine & Spirits, Old Saybrook, CT

Summer Whites Summer has officially arrived and it’s time to start planning picnics, trips to the beach and barbeques. Nothing screams summer like a refreshing glass of white wine.Instead of shopping for your go to Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, use this time to experiment with a variety of unusual white varietals and white blends.

One of the white wines that are growing in popularity is Vinho Verde, also known as “green wine”. This isn’t due to its color but to its light and refreshing taste. This wine is grown and produced in Portugal. It has a slightly lower alcohol content due to the law govern in that region. By law the wine cannot exceed 11.5% alcohol content. Because of this, the wines should be drunk young as it will be the most refreshing at this point. This wine produces a mild effervescence, which makes it a lighter alternative to sparkling wine. Another wine increasing in popularity is Gruner Veltliner from Austria. This is the most widely white grape grown there. The grape is harvested late and develops into a slight peppery, full in body wine with a clean crisp finish. This wine ages well and becomes a richer and more complex wine.

An area known mostly for their reds is the Rhone area. The big wines of Chăteauneuf–de-Pape and the entry level wines of Cote du Rhone are quite popular, however, they produce some interesting dry white wines from this area. Some of the varietals used in this area are; Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, and Ugni Blanc. This produces a medium bodied but dry white. If you’re looking for a slightly fruitier wine from France, try a Vouvray.

This wine area uses Chenin Blanc to produce a slightly fruitier wine. California does great blends of Chenin Blanc and Viognier.

This wine has great flavor and a surprisingly dry finish.

France has a few light whites to mention. The first one is Muscadet, which comes from the Loir Valley. The Muscadet region only grows one grape (Melon de Bourgogne) which has been around since the 17th century. The most predominate growing region is Muscadet-Sēvre et Maine, where as much as 75% of this wine is produced. The wine produces a slight mineral and limestone flavor, which is a great wine for pairing with shellfish and other seafood dishes.

Some of the wines are also labeled Sur Lie under the name Muscadet.

This means the grapes “rest on the lees”, (which is the dead yeast, left over seeds and pulp from the grapes produced during the making process right after fermentation) . This process gives the wine more body. The clay soils and granite slops give this white a mineral tone and sometimes a slight touch of effervescence.

Another great wine that is a littler fuller in body is White Bordeaux. which is typically comprised of two or three grapes.

The predominate white grapes that are grown in this area are: Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadet. This produces a semi bright white with some softness, brought on by the Semillon grape. There are however other white grapes that are used in small amount in other parts of Bordeaux such as the area of Entre- Deux- Mers.

Summer is meant to be a fun time of the year so why drink the same old wine when you can have something new and fun. Also don’t forget about the pink wine that drinks like a white made mostly from red grapes the “Rosé” Enjoy the summer!

Art LiPuma, General Manager at SeaSide Wine & Spirits 118 Main St, Old Saybrook, Connecticut www.seasidewineandspirits.com

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Written by Heather Kelly, Director of Operations, NoRA Cupcake Company Photos: Airen Miller, Jewel Photo, and NoRA Cupcake Company

The Sweetest Thing This may come as news to some...but cupcakes these days aren’t just for kids’ birthday parties. With endless flavor and design options, they have been making their way into nuptial celebrations in addition to or in place of the tiered wedding cake. What better way to celebrate the union of matrimony than with a dessert table set with all your favorite cakes and frostings in bite size form?

As we come upon our eighth wedding season at the bakery, we have designed and executed enough dessert table displays to know what the real crowd pleasers are. When a couple is looking to incorporate a variety of their favorite flavors - we usually suggest picking four cupcake options with a vanilla, a chocolate, a fruity, and a funky or seasonal flavor to keep their design layout balanced and all of the guests pleased. While the frosting artwork on the cupcakes themselves is wow - worthy enough for display, you can really have fun with what cake plates or cupcake tower options you decide to use to show off your sweets.

By the time you get around to dessert, you might not want your guests to have to sit back down to be served with plated sweets. This factor is what sways a majority of couples to go with a mini cupcake option where guests can pick and choose the bite size cakes. Some guests will have none, some will go all out and try each flavor! We suggest planning on two mini cupcakes to allow you that buffer.

You don’t have to worry about forgoing the cake cutting tradition if you want to incorporate cupcakes into your big day. Having a smaller “cut cake” covers that for you. A multi layered 6 inch round cake will get you about 8 slices enough for you to enjoy on the big day and to save and freeze for future anniversary celebrations.

Not too much of a cake person? Or do you just want ALL of the desserts?

Connecticut Wedding Group based out of Middletown, CT with three exclusive venues has their dessert displays down to a science. With a “Best of Everything” option they craft a Venetian table set with mini cupcakes, apple pie with ice cream, cider donuts, and mini cannolis…can’t think of a better way to end a celebration than that!

Being a part of people’s celebrations and traditions is the best part of our job.

We are available to talk catering and weddings all year round so pop in and see us in Middletown or New London and we’d love to chat with you.

NoRa Cupcake Company (860) 788-3150 700 Main St, Middletown, CT 06457 noracupcake.com

JULY EVENTS

80 Month of July - Westbrook July events at Waters Edge Resort & Spa.

Month of July - New London July Gallery Exhibitions and Art Park Events

HAPPY HOUR Mon thru Fri 4pm - 6pm $6 Beer or Wine & Great Food Specials

July 6th 5:30-8:30 pm Connecticut Artist Group- Opening Reception on display through August 3rd. Award winning CT artists show in a variety of mediums.

ROCK ON THE WATER – OUTDOOR TRIBUTE CONCERT July 11th A Tribute to The Eagles July 18th A Tribute to Bon Jovi July 25th A Tribute to U2 $10 Cover in Advance | $20 at the Door. 6:00pm LIVE MUSIC AT SUNSET BAR & GRILL 7/3 7/4 7/5 7/6 7/7 7/10 7/12 7/13 7/14 7/17

7/19 - We 3 Trio 7/20 - Locomotion 7/21 - Langley Project 7/24 - Jeckyl & Hyde 7/26 - Take Two and Call Me in the Morning 7/27 - Fusco Trio 7/28 - Core 3 7/31 -Whisker Fish Trio

- Langley Project - Potentials - We 3 Trio - Fusco Trio - Rock Bottom - Fishheads - Langley Project - Out of Basement - Eight to the Bar - Sebastian

REPEAT EVENTS: Monday – Free Bar Trivia | Lobster Boil $25 Tuesday – Karaoke | Taps & Tapas $5 Wednesday - Girls Night Out $6 Martinis Thursday – Taps & Tapas $5 Friday – Live Music | Prime Rib $19.95 Saturday - Live Music Sunday – Brunch $39.95 from 9am to 3pm

Tickets available online or by calling the front desk 860-399-5901.

Water’s Edge Resort and Spa, 1525 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT For info, call 860-399-5901 or visit www.WatersEdgeResortAndSpa.com

Month of July- Old Saybrook July Events at The Back Porch Restaurant Fourth of July 7/4: Chef Specials and Coyote River Band playing 4pm - 8pm.

Live Music: 7/3 – Carrie Ashton from 5:30pm 7/4 – Coyote River Band from 4pm 7/5 – Signature Band from 7pm 7/6 – Big Nasty from 7pm 7/7 – The Leftovers from 4pm 7/10 – Syndicate Duo from 5:30pm 7/11 – Green Hill from 6:30pm 7/12 – Timmy Maia from 7pm 7/13 – Kathy Thompson Band from 7pm 7/14 – The Bernadettes from 4pm

7/17 – Coal Tattoo from 5:30pm 7/18 – Katie Perkins from 6:30pm 7/19 – Le'Mixx from 7pm 7/20 – Primetime from 7pm 7/21 – Michael Cleary Band from 4pm 7/24 – Borderline Genius from 5:30pm 7/25 – 384 East Band from 6:30pm 7/26 – Upside Down from 7pm 7/27 – Avenue Groove from 7pm 7/28 – Nightshift from 4pm 7/31 – Sweet Tea Daddy from 5:30pm

REPEAT EVENTS Happy Hour Specials: Monday – Friday from 4pm – 6pm The Back Porch Restaurant & Bar, 142 Ferry Road, Old Saybrook CT Call 860.510.0282 or visit backporcholdsaybrook.com

July 7th, 12:00-4:00 pm Opening reception, "The Eyes Have It- A Visual Feast" - Solo exhibition by Dennis O'Brien on display until Aug 3rd.

July 12th 6:30- 9:00 pm Latino trio band Benny Valazquez. Doors open at 6 pm Donation $10.00 Cash bar 21+ July 13th, 4:00 pm- 11:00 pm FIESTA LATINA in the Art Park. Come celebrate Sailfest with some Latin flavor! Featuring Yordy the Voice, Grupo Tentacion, and Orquestra Afinke. Hosted by Angelly Sureil, and Zumba by Anabel Collado-Montalbano. After the Sailfest fireworks Dance Party 9-11 pm with DJ Rich 1! It's going to be a great summer party! Donation $5.00 Cash bar 21+ July 13th 10:00 am- 8:00 pm & Sunday July 14th 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Hygienic's Artisan Market. In true Hygienic spirit, the Hygienic Artisan Market offers over 40 artisan booths and will occupy all of Bank Street.

This is a festive, outdoor market space where people can expect the unexpected.

July 14th 2:00pm- 5pm Shoreline American Music School. Performers on guitar, banjo, violin and mandolin will take the stage at the Hygienic Art Park in New London during the 13th annual Acoustic Music Festival. “This is a fun, free event showcasing popular performers from the region.

July 20th 7-11 pm SKA PROM 2019. The annual prom-themed SKA show extravaganza complete with live music! Wear prom attire if you like (not required) , as there will be a prom photo booth. Mixing rock instruments with a full horn section and delivering an enthusiastic live performance, Advance ticket $10.00 available on line and $15.00 at the door.

HYGIENIC ART GALLERIES, 79 Bank Street, New London, CT 06320 860.443.8001 info@hygienic.org Month of July- Essex July Events at Scotch Plains Tavern Live Music: 7/3 – FrankenPhil from 5:30pm 7/5 – Crazy Ants from 8pm 7/7 – River Dawgs from 12pm 7/10 – Coal Tattoo from 5:30pm 7/11 – JC/DC from 6pm 7/12 – Mix it Up from 8pm 7/14 – Sweet Tea Daddy from 12pm 7/17 – Just the Two of Us from 5:30pm 7/18 –Eric Nass from 6pm 7/24 – Syndicate Duo from 5:30pm 7/26 – Crossover from 8pm 7/27 – Cover 2 Cover from 7pm 7/28 – Pick-N-Axe from 12pm 7/31 – Carrie Ashton from 5:30pm

Repeat Events: Happy Hour Specials: Tuesday – Friday from 3pm – 6pm Tuesdays: Taco Tuesday from 5pm – close Wednesdays: Live Music from 5:30pm – 8:30pm Thursdays: Ladies Nite with Drink & Happy Hour Specials from 3pm – close Fridays: Prime Rib from 5pm – close & Live Music from 8pm – 12am Sundays: Brunch from 11:30am – 3:00pm & Live Music 12pm – 3pm Scotch Plains Tavern, 124 Westbrook Road, Essex CT Call 860.662.4032 or visit scotchplainstavern.com

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7/4 7/6 7/11 7/18 7/25 7/26 7/27 7/31

Griff Anthony - Thursday 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Pimpinella - Saturday, July 6 - 9:00 pm - 11:45 pm Elle Sera - Thursday, July 11 - 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Griff Anthony - Thursday 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Elle Sera - Thursday, July 11 - 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Acoustic Mafia - Friday, July 26 - 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm The Leaf Jumpers Trio Saturday, July 27 - 9:00 pm - 11:45 pm Green Eyed Lady Wednesday, July 31 - 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Little Pub 1231 Boston Post Rd Old Saybrook Ct (860) 339-5591 www.littlepub.com/oldsaybrook

Month of July- Branford Just some of the happening at Lennys! Please check out our website for full events calendar!

7/2 7/3 7/5 7/6 7/9 7/10 7/11 7/12 7/13 7/14 7/16 7/17

Shawn Taylor Steamroller Rubber Band Muddy Rudders Brandt Taylor Welch's Jam Wango Tango Wayne and Chris Four Barrel Billy Cobalt Rhythm Kings Bobby Morrill Airborne

7/18 7/19 7/20 7/21 7/23 7/24 7/25 7/26 7/27 7/28 7/31

Jim Paradis Greg Sherrod George Baker Timmy Maia Andy Buzzi Brandon Terzakis Four Barrel Billy Java Groove Steamroller Rubber Band Rickie Miller and Tony Dioguardi

REPEAT EVENTS: Thursday Nights – Ladies’ Night - 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm $5 House Wines, $6 select martinis and reduced select appetizers Friday Nights - Happy Hour 4-6 $2 Bud Light bottles and Free Wings Sunday Night Karaoke with RJ Entertainment @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Please go to our website www.lennysnow.com for complete list of events. Lennys 205 South Montowese St (Rt. 146) Branford, CT 06405 www.lennysnow.com 203-488-1500 July 1 – August 29 Westbrook An art exhibition featuring works by members of artists of College Collections at the Valentine H. Zahn Community Gallery at Middlesex Health Shoreline Medical Center. College Collections is an online marketplace for student and emerging artists. The Gallery is open during regular business hours and is located at 250 Flat Rock Place, Westbrook, CT. For more information, contact Middlesex Health at 860-358-6200 or zahngallery@gmail.com.

July 1 – August 2 – Old Lyme “Waterworks: A Marine Show” & “Hudson Valley Art Association Annual 86th Annual National Juried Exhibition.” Waterworks is a juried exhibition of works by Lyme Art Association artists featuring the shore and sea. The Hudson Valley Art Association show draws award-winning pieces from their national membership of artists. The nearly 200 works in both the shows are for sale. The Lyme Art Association is located at 90 Lyme Street in Old Lyme, CT, and is free and open to the public, Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, and by appointment. For more information, call (860) 434-7802.

July 3 - 28 Ivoryton MAMMA MIA! Over 60 million people worldwide have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make Mamma Mia! the ultimate feel-good show!

Set on a Greek island paradise, the storytelling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show.

The musical includes such hits as “Super Trouper”, “Lay All Your Love on Me”, “Dancing Queen”, “Knowing Me, Knowing You”, “Take a Chance on Me”, “Thank You for the Music”, “Money, Money, Money”, “The Winner Takes It All”, “Voulez-Vous”, “SOS” and the title track. The show has grossed $2 billion worldwide since its 1999 debut. A film adaptation starring Meryl Streep, Colin Firth, Pierce Brosnan, Amanda Seyfried, Christine Baranski, Stellan Skarsgård and Julie Walters was released in July 2008. Wed & Thurs 7:30PM / Fri & Sat 8:00PM Wed& Sub 2:00PM. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Saturday matinees added: Saturday, July 6th and July 20th. Email: info@ivorytonplayhouse.org Theatre Address: 103 Main Street Ivoryton, CT 06442 Box Office Phone: 860.767.7318 July 1 - 21 Chester The Connecticut Society of Sculptors is having an exhibition at the Cooper and Smith Gallery. The sculpture on display represents a variety of styles and media; demonstrating the diversity of the creative talents of The Society’s members. This show exemplifies the extraordinary artist talents of sculptors residing in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. Cooper and Smith Gallery, 10 Main Street, Essex CT (860) 581-8526 Hours: 10:30 - 5:00 And by appointment Closed: Monday & Tuesday art@coopersmithgallery.com

JULY EVENTS

Month of July - Old Saybrook Just some of the happening at Little Pub! Please check out our website for the full events calendar!

JULY EVENTS

82 July 2 - Sept 2 Madison Summer in New England. Susan Powell Fine Art has hosted this popular summer exhibition showcasing nationally acclaimed artists celebrated for painting the shoreline and landscapes of New England for the past 16 years. We are proud to present this new show of over seventy paintings of seascapes, classic sailing yachts, picturesque harbors and villages, shore birds, marsh, and river views by twenty-five award-winning artists. The works range in style from traditional realism and impressionism to contemporary. All reflect in rich detail summer moments, and the beauty and unique character of New England. The gallery is located at 679 Boston Post Road, Madison near the fire station.

Gallery hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm, and any day by appointment. For further information, please call (203) 318-0616, email us at susanpowellfineart@gmail.com and visit www.susanpowellfineart.com to see works in the show.

July 6 - Chester CONCERT IN THE GARDEN. Opius Bliss feat. Michelle Walker.

With their wide-ranging, eclectic and roots-oriented approach to making music, the new indie power group Opius Bliss defies categorization leaving audiences fully enthralled. Rearranging harmonies of familiar tunes, the members of Opius Bliss dive into an exploratory musical narrative. The band delivers seductive interludes with gorgeous, harmonies, energetic compositions with an overlay of gospel and blues tinged-soul. The band stretches with wide appeal with comparison's to Tedeschi Trucks band, Gov't Mule, Bonnie Raitt, Cassandra Wilson, Alabama Shakes and Gregory Porter. $20 donation - BYOB and picnic - Outdoor Bistro Style Seating in the Amphitheatre. Rain or shine! 7PM - 9PM. GATES OPEN Half Hour before the show. First come first seated. Choose your favorite bottle at the Chester Package Store across the street, get your picnic from any of Chester's fine restaurants and grab a growler from the Little House Brewing Company next door. Sorry, no pets allowed.

Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring Street, Chester, CT July 7 New London David Dorfman Dance presents a New London Work-In Progress Performance celebrating the 30year old modern dance company’s first time collaboration between Obie-Award winning, interactiveelectronics artist Andrew Schneider and David Dorfman Dance. Titled A(Way) Out of My Body, the work investigates out-of-body experiences as related to intergenerational trauma, and the mental burden and physical impact of surviving personal adversity. The performance takes place on Sunday, July 7 at 2:30pm Free and unticketed at the Myers Studio, 3rd Floor of the Crozier Williams Building at Connecticut College, with a post-showing Q&A and Champagne Toast. Dorfman and his company of dancers weave together movement, technology, theater and live music composed and performed by the David Dorfman Dance Band.

The work takes audience members on an exploration of their own resilience and capacity for joy when overcoming physical and societal limitations. The afternoon ends with a brief Q&A with David Dorfman, Andrew Schneider, Dorfman Band Sam Crawford, Liz de Lise and Jeff Hudgins and the dancers of David Dorfman Dance.

Connecticut College. Myers Studio, 3rd Floor, Crozier Williams Building, 270 Mohegan Avenue, New London, CT 06320

July 13 Salem Don’t miss the Opening Reception for the “Abstracts” Art Show and Sale at The Red House on Saturday, July 13, 5-8pm. Come see the FIRST EVER PUBLIC SHOWING of the works of Hiram Bingham IV and see how his acquaintance with Marc Chagall influenced his artwork.

Other local artists in the show include James B. Murphy and Patricia Disantis. Show runs through October 13 at The Red House Cultural Arts Center, 22 Darling Road, Salem.

Open Thursday – Sunday 10am-7pm. (860) 608-6526.

July 19 Guilford July Meet and Greet the Artist. Summer in New England. Featuring shoreline artists Cindy Stevens and Lisa Rose Fatone. These experienced painters love what they do and it shows. Cindy works in oils, and Lisa, in watercolor. Both artists have years of gallery experience, and enjoy painting similar subjects together. Their individual approaches exhibited together make an exhilarating exhibit.

We invite you to continue to celebrate summer with us. Friday July 19, 2019 5-7PM. Also currently exhibiting recent works in oil, watercolor, photography, pottery, glass and jewelry by our eclectic and d i s t i n guished family of talented gallery artists and artisans. Light refreshments served. This event occurs monthly every third Friday, and is free and open to the public. The Birds Nest Gallery and Salon, 25 Water Street • Guilford, CT 06437 • 203.689.5745 • art@thebirdnestsalon.com July 20 Salem Pressed Flowers and Botanicals Workshop with Anna Sidorow. The focus of this workshop is making note cards and larger pieces, using pressed flowers and botanicals, suitable for framing. You will also learn the basics of how to press the botanicals and adhere them to a heavy card stock. Supplies include an abundance of pressed botanicals, cards and paper. Saturday, July 20, 10am-1pm, Class fee: $50. The Red House, 22 Darling Road, Salem. Visit salemredhouse.com for more info. (860) 608-6526.

July 25 Essex Tacos and Tequila Cruise. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. Ride the vintage train pulled by the antique diesel locomotive to our riverboat where you will enjoy one of the Signature Margaritas (choice of Summer Melon or John’s House), a taco bar and other light food and live music. Additional beverages are available for purchase aboard the boat. 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.. $55 Ticket includes train and boat excursion, (1) Signature Margarita or other beverage, taco bar and other light food and music. (860) 767-0103 essexsteamtrain.com/seasonalexcursions/tacos-tequila-cruise/ info@essexsteamtrain.com

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Thursday, July 11 A Tribute of Eagles

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Comedy at the Edge Comics Featured On:

Thursday, July 18 A Tribute of Bon Jovi

Thursday, July 25 A Tribute of U2 6:00pm | $10 in advanced $20 Day of Show

$20 per person Show starts at 7:00pm

Sunday, July 14 Sunday, July 21 Sunday, July 28 Performed by

For Details & Reservations: WatersEdgeResortandSpa.com 1525 Boston Post Rd Westbrook, CT 06498 (860) 399-5901