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TABLE OF CONTENTS Departments
Farricker
Publisher’s Letter
Readers’ Letters
Milford Spotlight
This Season
Arts And Artisans
Shopping
Milford Morsels
by
Eye On Business
Milford Media
Milford Memories
Up And Comers
Education Notebook
At Your Service
Milford Green
This Old Home
Legends & Lore
Milford Attic
Greetings From Milford
Where is it?
Publisher/President
Suzanne Cahill Suzanne@milfordliving.com
Editorial Director
Ann McGuire
Art Director
Ryan Swanson
Associate Publisher
Susan Carroll Dwyer
Advertising Director Joy Haines
Contributing Photographers
Jeffrey Bloch, Suzanne Cahill, Susan Carroll Dwyer, KVON Photography, Maryalice Manning, Ann McGuire, Gerry McGuire, Erin Morton, JJ Richards
Contributing Editors
Tracy Farricker
Contributing Writers
Susan Carroll Dwyer, Suzanne De Vita, Frank Farricker, Karena Garrity, Kaitlyn Goldberg, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Marilyn May, Erin Morton, Ann McGuire, Gerry McGuire, Cindy Papish Gerber, S.G. Patrick, Jill Roberts, Noelle Talmon
Production Assistance
Kevin Maher, Wendy Macomber, Todd Manning, Tamara Simpson Interns
Bridget Dwyer, Erin Morton
Milford Living Magazine 53 River Street Milford CT 06460 203-283-5290 http://www.milfordliving.com
Milford Living Magazine (ISSN 1547-4429) is distributed quarterly by Red Mat Publishing. P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher. Subscription Rates: U.S. $23.96. Newsstand: $5.99. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460. Please allow six to eight weeks for subscription processing. Copyright 2003-2025 Red Mat Publishing. www.milfordliving.com/subscribe Opinions expressed in Milford Living Magazine articles and advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, respectively, and should not be considered as expressions of management or official policies of Milford Living Magazine.
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Karin M Casanova Leila P Chaucer
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Judith R DiFranco
Joan P DiVincenzo
Susan A DuBrow Kelly R Durrschmidt
Lisa M English
Sarah S Ferrante Laura A Hardacre
Kelly A Mihalyak
Mary G Kelleher
Ruth A Korpita
Ralph A Lewis III
Christy A Lindsay Beth A Lopez Christine H Lovejoy
Christine J Mahoney Debra M McGinley Sophia Messore
Lisa Mingrone Leonard J Nicoletti
Laura K Kelleher
Lorna P Nichols
Barbara B Oliver Christine M Shaw Victoria Stillings Donna J Tartagni
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Home & auto. Bundle & save.
As the air turns crisp and the leaves along the Wepawaug begin their annual transformation, Milford seems to hum with renewed energy. Autumn is a season of gathering, of families, of ideas, and of new and old traditions; it feels only fitting that this issue of Milford Living is filled with stories that bring our community closer together.
With just 85 days between October 1st and December 25, we’ve made it easy for you with a curated selection of gift experiences, all from our local neighborhood businesses. Think of them as gifts that sparkle twice, once when unwrapped, and again when remembered.
Milford’s creative spirit is flying high this time of year, and in these pages. From original theater productions that find inspiration in unexpected places to music lessons that strike a joyful chord, there’s a kind of everyday magic in the way art takes root here.
Since the fall brings election day and civic reflection, we’ve taken the opportunity to introduce Milford’s new Economic and Community Development director and his vision for balancing growth and community pride. Plus, we sat down with our mayoral candidates, Tony Giannattasio and Rich Smith to reveal a bit about the people behind the platforms— their values, traditions, and hopes for Milford’s future.
ST. MARY SCHOOL
Nostalgia has its place in these pages, too. We revisit beloved restaurants, bars, and gathering spots now gone but not forgotten, while also exploring how historic buildings continue to serve us in new ways. In our new department, This Old House, we uncover mysteries preserved within centuries-old walls and celebrate the owners who are lovingly restoring them. And with a wink to the whimsical, we meet the witches and warlocks of Walnut Beach, living proof that Halloween in Milford is as enchanting as our shoreline sunsets.
With this jam-packed issue, we say “Thank you for your service” to all our veterans, as well as local civic groups who do so much for our community. Thank you as well to our advertisers, whose support makes Milford Living possible.
Remember, now is the perfect time to order gift subscriptions to Milford Living, a yearlong present that celebrates Milford with every issue. Place your orders at Milfordliving.com/subscribe in time for the holidays.
The entire team wishes you the very best this season of Thanksgiving. Suzanne
Milford Living does such a wonderful job of bringing our town’s history to life. As a recent resident, I would love to see an article about George Washington’s visit to Milford. I heard someone talking about it at the library. His travels through Connecticut are a fascinating part of our nation’s story, and exploring his time would be interesting to me.
—Elizabeth Morrow, Milford
Thank you for your suggestion! George Washington’s travels through Connecticut and his documented stop in Milford are indeed a fascinating chapter in our shared history. We
agree this story deserves revisiting, and we’ll explore ways to highlight his visit in an upcoming issue.
My daughter just left for college out of state, and I know she’ll miss Milford. Is there a way I can send her a subscription so she can keep up with hometown news and stories?
—Mark Donovan, Milford
Absolutely! A gift subscription to Milford Living makes a thoughtful care package in print. By subscribing at milfordliving. com and choosing the gift option, your daughter will receive every issue, keeping her connected to the
community she loves, even while she’s away at school.
I enjoyed the updated history of the Great River Golf Club and the photos of the grounds. It brought back memories of both the original farm property and the first golf course on the property over 60 years ago. From the late 1920s to 1961, this was the location of the 110-acre Zielinski dairy farm. The farm was sold and developed as the Riverview Country Club, a nine-hole course. The cow barn was made into a clubhouse and banquet facility. A few years later, a fire destroyed the structure. The property fell into disrepair. After
Milford, CT 06460 or email our publisher at: suzanne@milfordliving.com
several attempts to develop the property, finally, in the 1990s, the Great River Golf Club began. Beautiful dairy farmland is now the perfect location for the welldesigned Great River Golf Club. Great interesting Milford history.
—Florence Zielinski, Milford
Thank you, Florence, for sharing this slice of history with us. We deeply appreciate it when readers take the time to pass along their knowledge. Each story adds a new patch to Milford’s historical quilt, and together these pieces create a more vibrant picture of our shared past. We are grateful for your contribution.
Holidays
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ANTHONY’S HIGH TECH AUTO CENTER II 156 Gando Dr, New Haven, CT 203-777-2260
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J&M AUTO BODY 915 Bridgeport Ave, Milford, CT 203-874-7331
LOMBARD MOTORS LLC 140 Gando Dr, New Haven, CT 203-624-3256
LOMBARD MOTORS 61 Over Look, Hamden, CT 203-848-1788
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MIKE’S AUTOMOTIVE 410 Clintonville Road, North Haven, CT - 203-239-2886
Veteran’s Organizations Carry on the Mission
Tucked within the borders of Milford stand two buildings housing organizations serving the military veterans of the community. American Legion Post 196 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7788 are comprised of people who live by the philosophies of patriotism, history, honor, and community spirit.
These two organizations, each with their own mission and goals, provide the opportunity for veterans and their families to come together not just to reflect on their service, but to continue it.
According to Post Commander Colleen Weatherspoon, American Legion Post 196, located at 25 Merwin Avenue, is the largest in the state, with more than 500 members. It was founded in 1964 and includes veterans from all branches of the United States military.
According to Weatherspoon, the goals of Post 196 are to aid and serve veterans in need, widows of veterans, children and youth, and the community.
To support local veterans, the Post
(Above) American Legion Post 196’s members enjoy its beachside location for gatherings and events. (Below) The flag mural displayed on the wall on the VFW Post 7788 in Devon.
offers rides to and from the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in West Haven, food collections, donations to veterans, and more. There is a discrete suggestion box available so people can request or suggest specific help for a veteran in the community. An Honor Guard is also available to provide military honors at a local veteran’s funeral.
Post 196 holds events throughout the year, with proceeds benefiting local veterans and causes supporting vets. There is a Polar Plunge every winter, bingo games, a pig roast, theme dances, a chili cookoff, and more.
The community at large also benefits from the post’s initiatives. It sponsors a Boy Scout troop, as well as four youth baseball teams, two of which qualified for their division’s
championships this summer! The post also helps high school students learn how government works and gain experience in mock civic leadership through the Legion’s Boys State and Girls State week-long programs.
Any military veteran with an honorable discharge or who is currently serving honorably in the military is eligible to become a member of the American Legion. Post 196 members range in age from early 30s to mid-80s.
Post 196 also contains a few subgroups. The American Legion Auxiliary is an active
The pavilion at the VFW Post 7788 in Devon is a great space for outdoor events.
SUSAN CARROLL DWYER
milford spotlight
group of family members of members. Spouses (male and female), mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and daughters of veterans are eligible to join. Sons of American Legion members or of servicemembers who died while serving can join the Sons of the American Legion.
There is also a chapter of Legion Riders connected with Post 196, which raises funds and builds awareness through the camaraderie of motorcycle riding.
To learn more about American Legion Post 196, call 203-874-9822 or visit milfordctvets.org.
On the other side of town, at 422 Naugatuck Avenue in Devon, sits Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7788. According to past Commander Jay Murray, Post 7788 has
Poppies made by students at Foran High School are used to raise funds for a scholarship.
hairstylist
[‘hair:stye:list] noun
been active since the late 1940s, chartered after founder Travis C. Kitchen returned from World War II. The current structure was built in 1948.
The VFW itself has been in existence since 1899. According to the vfw.org, the group’s mission is “To foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts. To serve our veterans, the military, and our communities. To advocate on behalf of all veterans.”
Currently, the Travis C. Kitchen Post 7788 has almost 120 members, ranging in age from early 40s to mid-80s, and focuses on helping local veterans in need. This is accomplished through outreach, military funeral honors, and through events for both post members
SUSAN CARROLL DWYER
and the community at large.
Featured activities, outside of the post’s regular kitchen and gathering hours, are regular Red Cross blood drives, weekly Bingo, and a family picnic in the summer, among many others. They also sponsor The Patriot’s Pen, an essay contest for middle school students, and its counterpart, The Voice of Democracy, for high school students, with the opportunity to win scholarships.
The post does outreach, donating time and funds to local nonprofits that serve veterans in some capacity. They recently had a day of service, where members helped cook and feed those needing a meal at the Beth-El Center’s soup kitchen.
To become a member of the VFW, a veteran
must have been honorably discharged or be serving honorably, and have served “in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or hostile waters.”
This organization also has an Auxiliary, which is open to direct relatives of veterans who qualify for membership in the VFW. For more information about VFW Post 7788, call 203-874-9982 or visit vfw7788.org
Together, American Legion Post 196 and VFW Post 7788 serve as anchors for Milford’s veteran community. Whether through community outreach, youth programs, or quietly assisting a veteran in need, they continue to serve and show that honor, duty, and camaraderie stay strong as ever.
—Shaileen Kelly Lansberg
All branches of the military are represented in the Post 7788 clubhouse.
SUSAN CARROLL DWYER
season
The Witches of Walnut Beach
Author Roald Dahl said witches are everywhere. In his super scary 1983 children’s story The Witches, the British writer claimed witches trav eled around with snakes, had scary eyes, sharp teeth, and kidnapped children. Could it be true?
In the last 20 years, witches have decided Walnut Beach is the place to be.
In this age of disinformation and “alternate facts” we thought it best to get the real facts directly from a witch’s mouth, so to speak. For most of the year witches are impossible to spot. They get tacos from La Catina and martinis at Nautilus. They go paddleboarding and do yoga. It’s only on Halloween, when the witches come out for a street dance party in front of the Walnut Beach Creamery, that we see them with
(Left) Wendy Terenzio was the official Walnut Beach Witch for many years. (Below) She passed the broom to the Walnut Beach Warlock Patrick Cornelio in 2021.
A: “Absolutely not!” says Witch Wendy. “We noticed bad spirits coming to Walnut Beach so we ring our bells as we parade around the block. The bells chase the bad spirits away.”
For context, every year, always on Halloween, the witches appear near the corner of Naugatuck Ave. and Broadway. The coven of witches fans out across Broadway and lead a parade, ringing bells to scare away the bad spirits. They end up back in front of the Walnut Beach Creamery for a booty-shaking dance.
Q: Are you a good witch or a bad witch?
S.G. PATRICK(2)
A: “The beach, the water,” says Cornelio. “I love a good lobster roll.”
Q: Why do you always do the German broom dance?
A “Well, one day I’m surfing the web,” says Terenzio, (little known fact: witches are tech savvy) “and I see these beautiful witches dancing ‘Wolfshager Hexenbrut.’”
Translated, the song instructs us to “shake your bacon,” so sign me up!
So, if you run into a witch, fear not. These are very friendly witches who descend on Walnut Beach with the regalia and bells only on Halloween night. The other 364 days of the year, they just might be working on their tan near the Walnut Beach pavilion.
—S.G. Patrick
WITCHES’ BROOM DANCE
The Walnut Beach Halloween Party starts at 5:00 pm in front of the Walnut Beach Creamery. The witches appear at 6:00 pm for a parade that travels up Naugatuck Avenue and around the block, before heading back to the Creamery for the annual witches’ broom dance. For more information, visit www.walnutbeachartsandbusiness.com.
Passion on Paper and Stage
“
Ifind myself inspired by the craziest things,” says Bert Bernardi of his musicals. “Often it’s a bizarre news story or headline, or a funny situation I’m in.” Bernardi is the cofounder of Pantochino Productions, the Milford theater company he established with partner Jimmy Johansmeyer in 2010. He’s also the playwright behind more than 200 musicals, including the company’s fall production, “What Now, Voyager,” a parody of the similarly titled 1942 Bette Davis film.
The plot combines two hallmarks of old Hollywood: melodrama and adventure on the high seas. It also bears Pantochino’s signature style: “It’s Mel Brooks-ian,” Bernardi says. “Definitely wicked.”
Following “Voyager” is the company’s holiday show, “Welcome to Santa Claus,” a
feel-good story inspired by the town of Santa Claus, Indiana. “It’s a family-friendly, Hallmark Channel-esque experience,” says Bernardi.
Bernardi has always been invested in theater, from his early days acting after college to decades of directing and writing. His experience includes 28 years at the Downtown Cabaret
Theatre in Bridgeport, where he served as artistic director and wrote a series of children’s plays.
Since founding Pantochino, Bernardi, Johansmeyer, and composer Justin Rugg have collaborated on countless original productions. Some scripts take a matter of weeks to finish, others a few months. The company’s most recent spring production, “Tiaras Over Teaneck,” stemmed from an idea Bernardi dreamed up years ago. “It’s very difficult to put a time frame on it,” he says in regard to the time it takes to write a new play. “Sometimes the characters write themselves and it’s easy. Sometimes we keep going back and editing, cutting, and changing. The sky’s the limit when you’re writing your own material.”
Pantochino performs at the Milford Arts Council (The MAC), a nonprofit hub for arts and entertainment and home to Eastbound Theatre. The MAC supports writers with its Plays in Development program and a community group, The Written Word, that meets monthly.
Pantochino founder and playwright Bert Bernardi.
Pantochino’s Jimmy Johansmeyer, Justin Rugg, and Donna Vicci in “Noni Cimino’s Kitchen.”
Fortuitously, Plays in Development is what brought Nancy Herman and Lynda Sorensen’s work, “Words From the Front” to life.
“The goal of the program was to give local playwrights the opportunity to have their play read, with an audience, and get some feedback to help them improve,” says Herman, who
also serves as chairperson of Eastbound. “We had a play in development scheduled, but the playwright backed out, so Lynda and I got to work, finished ‘Words From the Front’ and performed it.”
“Words” captures the experiences of Russians and Ukrainians confronting the
MILFORD’S LEADING
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The cast of “Panto of the Opera,” written by Bert Bernardi.
ongoing war. The play, a staged reading, is based on correspondence between Herman, her daughter—who was born in Russia and adopted—and friends and relatives in both countries.
Herman and Sorensen began writing the play soon after the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. It was performed in November that year at the MAC.
“The narratives are personal and profound,” Sorensen says. “We wanted to give them a voice.”
Herman and Sorensen have been writing together for some time. Professionally, they
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arts + artisans
both taught English at Darien High School. Herman ran the theater department and established a theater exchange program with a school in Moscow. Personally, they each adopted a daughter from abroad at a time when both were unmarried.
“We took inspiration from our lives and the world at large,” Herman says. “We were writing about being single women and mothers with adopted daughters. A lot of it had a feminist slant—we both have very strong connections to our mothers and grandmothers.”
Then came “Words,” which has been performed several times across the state since its debut. “One of our challenges is the fact that the war is not static and there have been a lot of political underpinnings,” Sorensen
says. “We never conceived this as a political play, but politics are entering the war quite dramatically now.”
Whether a reading, musical, or other medium, the MAC has offered a crucial forum for these playwrights to bring the local
A performance of “Words From the Front,” by local playwrights Nancy Herman and Lynda Sorenson.
community together. “I love creating stories, and I’m filled with joy that we’ve taken people away from their lives for an hour or two and given them entertainment,” Bernardi says. “Most of us are reading about [the war]
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Whether you’re brand new or returning to movement after time away, you’ll find a warm welcome here.
through newspapers and social media, but these are the actual words of Russians and Ukrainians,” Sorensen says. “It appeals because it’s personal voices playing out in history.”
—Suzanne De Vita
FOR MORE INFORMATION, please visit www. milfordarts.org or www.pantochino.com.
IN PERFORMANCE
The work of these playwrights can be experienced where it is meant to be seen—on the stage—this fall.
“Words From the Front” will be performed Sunday, September 28th at the Ridgefield Public Library, 472 Main St., Ridgefield, CT. Visit ridgefieldlibrary.org for more information.
“What Now, Voyager” runs October 10-28 and “Welcome to Santa Claus” performances can be seen December 5-21 at the MAC, 40 Railroad Avenue. Visit pantochino.com for tickets to both shows.
Home Yoga is more than a yoga studio—it’s a home for wellness, connection, and vibrant aging. With small, supportive classes and monthly gatherings, you’ll find strength in your body and peace & belonging in your heart.”
Move better. Feel better. Come home to yourself.
Join us as we grow together in wellness and enjoy gatherings each month. This Fall includes a Paint & Sip featuring“Long Time Sun”, a Kirtan anda Mandala Creation!
Above: Nancy Herman, and left, Lynda Sorensen begarn writing “Words from the Front” soon after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
HERMAN(2)
The Joy of Experiential Gifting shopping
Did you know there are only 85 days between October 1st and December 25th? Just two-and-a-half months to find the perfect gifts, formulate thoughtful ways to celebrate, and surprise the people who matter most. This year, we are delighted to bring you a selection of curated gift-giving experiences from our trusted neighborhood partners. Even better, many of these experiences come with special offers exclusively for you, making it easier to give thoughtfully while supporting the local businesses that make our town so vibrant.
INDULGE THE SENSES
Give the gift of relaxation and romance with a Dinner and Massage Package for two, just $160. Enjoy
a three-course prix fixe dinner at Bin 100 (a $76 value) followed by a one-hour foot reflexology session for two at the oh so chill J & C Foot
Relaxing (a $100 value). Perfect for couples or friends looking to unwind and indulge.
This limited-time package can be purchased in person through December 23rd. Visit Bin 100 at 100 Landsdale Avenue to purchase your certificate.
Indulge someone you love with a Tranquility Mind & Body
Wellness Spa Day Escape. When you book two or more one-hour spa treatments, you’ll receive a complimentary sauna session to begin your day in soothing warmth. Price Range: $240–$300. Choose from: massages, facials, body wraps & scrubs, reiki, reflexology, and holistic services. Visit Tranquility Mind & Body
Wellness 88 Noble Avenue, online at tranquilwellnessspa.com, or call 203-877-7115.
Treat someone you love like royalty with ADA’s Beauty Bar Queen for a Day package for $225.Your gift recipient can choose three services from their Beauty Bar: facial, makeup, eyelash extension, hair wash & blow-dry, gel manicure & gel pedicure.
Visit ADA’s Beauty Bar at 3355 Main Street, Stratford for a gift certificate.
Mind Body & Soul Wellness is providing a few different offers for you this holiday season:
• Relax & Restore Package: Just $70 and your choice of two services: reiki, infrared sauna, Himalayan salt room, or red light therapy
• Buy One, Get One 50% off ($80 value) Experience any of their signature services like the Himalayan salt room, infrared sauna, or red light therapy and share the wellness with a friend. Visit Mind Body & Soul Wellness, 50 Broad Street, Unit 29, to purchase your package.
Gift the glow of radiant, healthy skin this season with a HydraFacial or AquaFacial from Physicians Med Spa
• HydraFacial: Deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates using vortex technology. Ideal for addressing fine lines, acne, and dullness. ($175)
• AquaFacial: Combines ultrasound, vibration, and exosome therapies to drive nutrients deep into the skin. ($249)
BONUS: Enjoy an Ultimate Relaxing Spa Facial at no extra charge for anyone who purchases more than one MedicalGrade Facial.
To purchase your package, visit physiciansmedspa.com/ or call 203877-6568
Give the gift of radiant skin with the Gleaux Gift experience ($165) at Charmed Skyn. This luxe package includes your choice of any body waxing service, a
60-minute Skyn Signature Facial, and a full-size Pynk Protector to protect post-wax skin. A fresh rose upon arrival and an elegant gift envelope presentation make this experience unforgettable. To purchase visit: charmedskyn. glossgenius.com or visit them at 248 Bridgeport Avenue.
Effortless beauty from Lifted Lash & Brow Studio makes a great gift. From lash lifts to brow and lash tints to flawless waxing, they create looks that turn heads, without the hassle. Save time, skip the makeup, and step out feeling powerful, confident, and polished.
Bundle & Save 2 Pack: $170 (Reg. $178) 3 Pack: $245 (Reg. $267) 4 Pack: $320 (Reg. $356). To purchase your bundle, visit: liftedlashandbrow.com
SIP & SAVOR INTO THE SEASON
Treat yourself—or gift a friend—to a curated tasting adventure at Wines & More. Gather your group
Family owned since 1976, we offer a selection of fine jewelry, engagement rings, GIA certified diamonds, lab grown diamonds, estate jewelry and watches, fashionable silver designs and Citizen watches. On site goldsmith, custom work, repair, appraisals.
shopping
and explore a variety of spirits, from smooth whiskeys to refreshing gins, guided by experts. For wine lovers, the Tasting Library offers an elegant journey for just $20 per person. A unique and memorable gift of flavor and discovery.
Visit in person at Wines & More, 242 Boston Post Road.
Enjoy a delicious evening at Stonebridge Restaurant with their special holiday offer: two complete 3-course dinners for just $50. You’ll savor starters, main courses, and desserts at an unbeatable price. Reserve your table today. Mention Milford Living for your special offer
or when purchasing your gift certificate. Visit: Stonebridge Restaurant at 50 Daniel Street, 203-874-7947
Treat someone special to the ultimate burger night with the $50 Burger Lovers Feast for Two gift at Flipside Burger. This tasty gift experience includes two gourmet burgers of your choice, crispy fries, and your selection of two small plates and one dessert to share. Whether it’s a casual date night or a gift for the burger connoisseur in your life, this flavorful feast is sure to satisfy.
Purchase your package at Flipside Burgers & Bar, 1 Schooner Lane.
THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT!
The gift of live entertainment this holiday season is always a winner. Grab a 2-pack of tickets to an upcoming show at the Milford Arts Council (MAC) for only $60. Whether it’s music, theater, comedy, or dance, this flexible ticket package lets your recipient choose the performance that speaks to them.
Show choices:
2 tickets: January 23, 2026 | Life in a Blender (Rock/Punk)
2 tickets: January 30, 2026 | Wynona Wang (Classical Pianist)
2 tickets for any one showtime: February 6-21, 2026 | Eastbound
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Discover a place where healing happens naturally — where your mind, body, and soul are cared for together.
Offering holistic healing for the whole person at the cellular level. Recognized by the Regional Chamber of Commerce as ‘Best of’ in three categories: Best New Business, Best Locally Owned, and Best Local Hidden Gem.
Whether you’re on a journey to better health or looking to maintain your well-being, we’re here to walk with you — every step of the way.
Discover memberships, packages, gift cards, and special events, plus a shop filled with salt lamps, bracelets, and more waiting for you.
Our services include
• Infrared Sauna
• Himalayan Salt Room
• Red Light Therapy
• Reiki
• Psychotherapy
Theatre’s production of Vanya, Sonia, Masha, & Spike
Visit the MAC at 40 Railroad Avenue to purchase your certificate.
Make music the ultimate gift with a School of Rock Milford Immersion Pass for $199. Perfect for beginners or budding musicians,
this pass offers four private lessons in guitar, drums, bass, vocals, or keys for one month—taught by expert instructors in a fun, bandstyle setting. A gift that truly rocks for potential students age 8 and up! Pop on over to 213 Cherry Street, Suite 8.
Share the joy of movement this holiday season with a gift from Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Whether you’re looking to glide across the ballroom, wow guests with a choreographed wedding dance, or simply feel confident on
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the dance floor, mention Milford Living to receive a complimentary offer or wedding consultation. It’s the perfect gift to inspire
joy, confidence, and connection through dance.
Call or visit Fred Astaire Dance Studios at 203-795-5200, 547B Boston Post Road, Orange.
DECK THE HALLS
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—Suzanne Cahill
milford morsels
Milford’s Appian Way
There is a famous idiom that states, “All roads lead to Rome.” It stems from the fact that the ancient Romans were such prodigious road builders that their work spanned an entire empire. The first and most famous of these byways was the Appian Way, leading from the southeast of the Italian peninsula directly to the seat of Roman power, The Forum.
Along the Appian way, stood the Tres Tabernae, or the Three Taverns, famed for providing weary travelers, soldiers, and merchants with food, drink, and rest. A thousand years later and an ocean way, another road cut its way through the wilderness. For more than 300 years, the Boston Post Road has led soldiers, merchants, religious pilgrims, and even Presidents to Milford. Along this famous route today, lie three restaurants Reggiano’s, Mama Theresa’s, and Mangiare’s each taking their culinary inspiration from the land of Rome and the Appian Way.
you’ll find a sharp, vibrant
and chef, Alberto Campis. Dominguez believes one of the secrets to running a successful eatery is to take criticism as well as compliments. “If something
Reggiano’s manager Miguel Dominguez says feedback—good or bad—is the key to lasting success.
MILFORD’S ITALIAN ICONS: A DELICIOUS JOURNEY AWAITS
Like the Roman legions before me, I strode north along Milford’s Appian Way, to sample some of the finest Italian foods Milford has to offer. As Julius Caesar said, “Veni ,Vidi Vici.” I came, I saw, I conquered. I also ate pizza.
Inside Reggiano’s Fine Italian Cuisine (489 Bridgeport Avenue),
customers that we respect them and that we’re listening,” he says. This desire to improve has paid off with a loyal customer base. “Since I started working here, we’ve had a very consistent and loyal clientele,” he affirms. “Some people come back two or three times a week. That’s the driving
It would have taken a legion of hungry Roman soldiers to include every Italian restaurant on our trip down Milford’s Appian Way. So, we suggest you make your own pilgrimage and add these favorites, highlighted in previous issues. A trip to Bin 100 at 100 Landsale Ave brings the taste-bud explosion of Italy and the Mediterranean to your table. A local favorite for a quiet dinner or a catered event, Bin 100’s cuisine is rivaled only by its superb wine list and supreme tableside service.
For a taste of Northern Italy, visit Gusto Trattoria at 255 Boston Post Road on your journey. It’s the perfect time of year because—drumroll please—the cheese wheel is back! On Tuesday nights, the culinary spectacle known as Pasta alla Ruota is wheeled to your table for an interactive dining experience! A wheel of cheese is gently warmed with fire while your pasta cooks, allowing the cheese to soften and melt. It is then filled with the cooked pasta and the heat creates a creamy sauce mixed with freshly cracked black pepper that is the stuff of a cheese lover’s dream! Of course, Gusto’s extensive menu includes something for everyone, and the expansive fire-warmed pavilion allows al fresco eating in all kinds of weather.
force here.” Some of the triedand-true favorites on the menu include a Braised Beef Ravioli that is delicioso, Veal Ossobuco over Fettuccine, Lobster and Crab Ravioli in Carbonara Sauce, and the ever-popular Clams Casino.
Not content with resting on their laurels, the staff at Reggiano’s introduce new specials every week. “I feel like whenever we stray away from the tried and tested Italian dishes—try something different and put something new out—we say, ‘Wow, we should have done that earlier.’ In this business, you
always have to keep moving.”
And so, I did, to 851 Boston Post Road, home of the Godfather (or Godmother if you will) of Milford’s Italian cuisine: Mama Teresa’s, named after the wife of the original owner back in 1963. Current owner Dominic Testani has worked there since 1989 when he was in high school. “We’re traditionally a big part of the Milford
Mama Teresa’s owner Dominic Testani says they’ve stayed true to their roots while serving Milford great food since 1963.
milford morsels
Community...we’ve been around before pretty much everyone else and we’ve consistently done the same things and put out great food since day one. We’ve stayed true to who we are.”
Perennial favorites like Penne ala Vodka with Chicken and Red Peppers and Baked Lasagna are always winners. The pizza menu is extensive, the seafood fresh, and don’t get me started on the Capriccio salad!
Mama Teresa’s has survived because of the care they put into their food, whether eaten on site or delivered! Longtime cook, Mauro
Moreira believes it all stems from the five hours they lovingly take every day to make their fresh tomato sauce using only San Marzano tomatoes.
With pepperoni pizza in hand (yay dinner), I drove further north to 1573 Boston Post Road where lies one of Milford’s newer Italian restaurants, Mangiare Italian. Owner Adrian Dini’s restaurant credentials read like the 1927 New York Yankees Murderers Row lineup: Italian restaurants on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, Le Bernardin in Manhattan (three Michelin stars), the Gotham Bar
and Grill and Il Palio in Shelton, and Adriana’s in New Haven. Dini has seen and done it all in the restaurant biz. But after years of
The bar at Mangiare Italian serves up craft cocktails and fine wines in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
GERRY MCGUIRE
working hard for other people, he woke up one day and said to his wife, “I’m not working for anyone else anymore.”
What separates his food from the other Italian food the area has to offer? “Old school cooking,” Dini says. “It’s not a glorified menu, it’s good, simple food, done the right way.” The current menu includes chicken and veal done four different ways, a beautiful Beet Salad with goat cheese and pistachios, a Seafood Spaghetti loaded with calamari, clams, mussels, scallops, and shrimp in a homemade tomato sauce, and an on-point Orecchiette with sausage and broccoli rabe. When asked from all his
experience what makes for a great restaurant, Dini notes three indelible lessons:
“Things are always gonna go wrong; it’s how you react that matters.”
“Saying please and thank you go a long way.”
“Get the food right. We’re entertainers, but the food must come first. Get that right, make it delicious, then do your dance.”
On the way home, I reflected on all the hard work and culinary artistry I had witnessed in just one small stretch of the Post Road.
—Gerry McGuire
The well-lit dining room at Mangiare Italian offers a bright, welcoming space to enjoy classic dishes in comfort and style.
GERRY MCGUIRE
eye on business
Townes Goes to Town
Even while on vacation, Milford’s new Economic and Community Development director, Robert Townes III, thinks about fresh and innovative ways he can spark economic and community growth in the city of Milford. Townes, who took the helm at his new position in July, is brimming with verve, professionalism, and the drive to make Milford the best Connecticut town it can be.
Finding inspiration everywhere, while on a recent family retreat to the Galapagos Islands, Townes paused to drink in the atmosphere. Beyond the natural beauty and enticing laid-back ambiance of the area, Townes saw a community that was thriving. “I saw the importance of smart and sustainable development, especially in a remote location 600 miles away from the Ecuadorian mainland,” Townes says. “I saw the importance of maintaining the right infrastructure to limit the impact on the place where they live. I saw the investment in community development as they work to pass along community values and educate their youth to encourage them to prosper in fields that will bring value back to their community. I saw them promote
tourism and bring in commerce in measured ways that did not overwhelm their community or natural resources, but instead allowed them to accentuate the natural beauty of their location.”
He adds, “They’ve found a way to foster smart, sustainable growth with the right supports for their local business community while maintaining the charm that makes their area special. I’ll work every day to make that happen in Milford.”
Capitalizing on Milford’s most attractive attributes, Townes says, “I know how important it is to foster appropriate, sustainable growth while maintaining the charm and quality of life that makes Milford special. Twenty-five years ago,
Milford’s Economic and Community Development director Robert Townes III is all about smart growth.
those qualities attracted me to Milford, and this city became the place where I got married, bought a home, and raised my family. However, in 2025, we know that the landscape is changing…the retail landscape is changing, the commercial office and industrial landscape is changing, and the residential landscape is changing. For Milford to remain an attractive, vibrant location, we’re going to have to evolve with these changing landscapes.”
With a focus on enhanced transparency, Townes wants to revamp the Economic and Community Development department’s website. He also has plans to publish the department’s e-newsletter regularly, and a renewed commitment to utilizing social media for the latest Economic and Community Development news.
“Any growth in Milford must be smart
growth,” says Townes, who is interested in highlighting Milford’s location on MetroNorth’s New Haven Line and its five exits off I-95. “Milford has a lot of attractive qualities to support business and housing opportunities,” he explains. “We certainly foster and maintain the fantastic sense of community in Milford while supporting transit-oriented development to keep our downtown area vibrant with more mixeduse and higher-density development where appropriate to promote more walkable communities and neighborhoods.”
Townes wants to focus on enhancing the quality of life in Milford by bringing the city’s residents together and exploring sustainable economic development, combined with infrastructure investments that will support
growth. However, like any good political leader, Townes’ initial plan of action is to listen and learn as much as he can. “Every day is a learning opportunity for me, as I continue to get a grasp of the city government as an organization
and meet with key stakeholders,” he says.
“My job is to stay informed on economic and community development trends at the local, state, national, and even global level,” he explains. “The Mayor is the final decision maker on policy, but it is my job to be an extremely informed, trusted advisor. It’s my job to provide the best possible information to guide decisions.”
On that note, current Mayor Tony Giannattasio concurs. “Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to our team,” he says, praising Townes for both his governance qualities and his devotion to Milford. “His leadership and passion will be an incredible asset to Milford, and we look forward to the positive impact he will make.”
—Karena Garrity
Estate Planning Essentials:
Mr. Townes entering Milford City Hall for a scheduled meeting with the Mayor’s office.
S.J. CAHILL
MEET THE MILFORD MAYORAL CANDIDATES
TEXT BY FRANK FARRICKER • PHOTOS BY KVON PHOTOGRAPHY
AAs Milford enters its 2025 municipal election season, the choices we make today will help shape the city’s future for generations to come. With that in mind, we wanted to go beyond the campaign signs and stump speeches to better understand the people behind the platforms. So, we visited the homes of the two mayoral candidates, incumbent Republican candidate Tony Giannattasio, and Democratic challenger Rich Smith, for a candid, sit-down Q&A where we talked about everything from education and infrastructure to family traditions and favorite beaches. Their answers reflect not just their policies, but their personalities, values, and vision for Milford.
ML: Why would a parent of an 8-year-old child want to choose you for mayor?
TONY GIANNATTASIO (TG): I’m very engaged in the community, and when I go to events, I will interact with the children I’ll ask them, “What school do you go to? What are your interests, sports, hobbies?”, things like that. Because I remember when I was young, I was very impressionable. And I remember the time I met Alberta Jagoe, a former mayor of Milford. She came to one of our schools when she was campaigning, and she was very pleasant, very nice, and I just had that warm feeling of someone who was very approachable. From a parent’s perspective, we did the ban on vape shops… and I think it speaks volumes in protecting our youth from a public health standpoint.
RICH SMITH (RS): An 8-year-old child depends on our schools, our
neighborhoods, and the safety of our neighborhoods, as their parents do. I’ll make education the priority. It’s making the safety of our community a priority. I will focus on education, safety, and recreation; these are the things that a parent of an 8-year-old would focus on as well.
ML: Is Milford “full”?
RS: I don’t know what full means, but listen, in some ways, Milford is the victim of our own success. Milford is a very desired community; people are coming in. Yet when I’m knocking on doors, they sometimes think it’s overcrowded. Too many apartments. So, I think we have to strike the right balance,
right? We want to encourage families to move to Milford for all the right reasons. I think our job is to make sure that the population and how we develop Milford is considered through regulations. So no, it’s not “full.” It’s not even a concept I would think about. We have a lot of young families, and we want to continue to encourage that. I think we need to continue to make it the desired community that people want to come to.
TG: In terms of living here, the more people move to Milford, there’s
more housing that needs to be built to keep them here. I believe, based on the market, you can say that Milford is full because there’s a limited amount of houses for sale and there’s more demand than there is supply. So, we don’t have a lot of new housing. I think the short answer is, I think Milford is full.
ML: Name three good things someone from the other political party has done in the last two years?
TG: The Democrats supported my ban on vape shops, and I
am grateful for that. They’ve supported my ordinance against street takeovers and the additional safety cameras to make our roads safer from speeding. The Democrats also supported my bonding package and supported the capital improvements plan and what we need to do to move Milford forward. There’s been a lot of bipartisan support on their behalf in the past two years.
RS: The Republican Party has some great people serving on
our boards, and I have nothing but respect for them. And I think what they do well is show up, they serve selflessly, like people on both sides, and I have a lot of respect for that sacrifice. We love this city, and we need to set an example for the rest of the state on how we comport ourselves. We’ve always had our disagreements, but then we could go out at night and have a beer together because we love the city, and we are doing this for the same reasons.
ML: There’s a lot of discussion in Milford regarding our public works resources (such as sewers) being stretched to the limit. Is repairing them for the next generation a reasonable cause for raising taxes?
RS: We’ve had to shut down applications after heavy rains with our sewers recently because they have been pushed (to capacity), and it is a huge cost issue for us. Raising taxes is a complicated thing, because you raise taxes if you haven’t raised revenue, if you haven’t reduced costs other places, in your bonding for most of these big things, so taxes don’t go up immediately, and they can be kind of normalized over years, so it doesn’t necessarily turn into a tax increase. What we need is someone in the mayor’s office who knows how to increase revenue—so that you have more to draw from—and decrease operational costs; that’s a lot about what I’m talking
about here. We need to be bold, but we need to act in a responsible way. And when I’m knocking on doors, I’m not saying taxes don’t go up. I’m saying they don’t go up 7.5% in one year. That has affected a lot of people. They’ve gone up almost 9% in two years. The mayor’s office has a responsibility not to do that, and that is by pushing back on department heads, raising revenue, and reducing costs. There’s got to be a balance. You can’t foist a 7.5% increase on people on fixed incomes. It’s a pay cut. The other party’s going after me because they have a video of me saying, ‘We need the courage to raise taxes.’ Absolutely, we need to raise taxes. But we need to do everything we can first before we raise taxes. And when we raise them, we need to do it in a responsible way.
TG: I don’t think that repairing or improving your infrastructure is going to raise taxes; that is part of the bonding package that I put forward. We always need to continue to improve on our infrastructure, and that’s an investment Milford has made. I think people understand that.
ML: To what degree is saving the historic legacy of Milford more important than development?
TG: First and foremost, Milford is older than our country and the historic preservation of Milford is paramount. When I was on the
Board of Aldermen, I worked with former town historian Dick Platt to get the demolition delay ordinance approved. This was bipartisan, and it’s in effect today. Any of these buildings that are 75 years or older, there’s a delay and it allows the city historian to tour the building and see anything of historical significance. We can hit the pause button, and we can save, and we can protect what is there.
RS: The DNA of Milford is that historic character, this harbor shorefront town that has a kind of Mystic, Cape Cod village feeling. That’s what makes people want to come here. If we sacrifice that, people aren’t going to want to come here, so it is not a trade-off. While it’s a balance between the two (development and preservation), you have to maintain the character of the city. The historic and charming nature of Milford has to be preserved at all costs, and then development needs to be done thoughtfully. I still marvel over the fact that George Washington had breakfast here and we were one of the first people to join the Revolutionary War on behalf of the Patriots. So the history and the character of Milford is based largely in the history; we need to maintain that.
ML: In your free time, what is your favorite place to visit in Milford?
RS: There’s a lot of hidden gems in Milford with special character. Where would I have my special time? In Laurel Beach,
my nephew lives two houses up from me, his aunt one house further. My brother is on Second Avenue, my wife’s other sister on Fourth, her other sister on First. I grew up here, and I know all the neighbors. Most of the people that live in these homes I call family. So this is a very special place to me. I have history here, a lot of memories with my family. This is kind of an idyllic place, and I could never imagine moving somewhere else.
TG: I met my wife at Gulf Beach. I met her as a kid, just hanging out at the parking lot, just being in the right place. I got engaged on the pier at Gulf Beach, and we’re still married today. So, there’s a lot of my history there, and in Bayview. My wife’s family still has a house there, so we spend a lot of time there in the summer, and it’s a special place in my heart.
ML: Do you support merging the high schools into one “mega school”
TG: I was the one who initially commissioned the long-range plan with Dr. Anna Cutaia, (Superintendent of Schools) because of budgetary considerations. I went to two of the meetings. I commend Dr. Cutaia for following through on her promise of forming this committee. Ultimately, it is up to the Board of Education if they want to pursue it, but I feel that in the short term, we would be better served to address the elementary and middle schools.
RS: I am listening to the debate. There is still a lot of discussion that has to go on; there are merits to both sides. First, it’s contingent upon two things: one is finding the land, which is more difficult than you think it is. Secondly, we’re looking at $250$300 million to build one high school. The ultimate decision relies upon the answer to those first two questions. Do we have someplace to build it? And will we make the investment? There are positives and negatives on both sides. So, what I’m telling people is, we’ll wait to see if the land is available. And then, too, the Board of Education has done these community conversations. They’ll dig into more details. It’s a nice idea, and you could build a spectacular school for kids for $300 million dollars, but you could also probably renovate two great schools. There’s going to be serious investment required, but it’s necessary. We have to support education.
ML: What person, not in government, inspired you the most as Mayor?
RS: I had a chance to sit down with Jennifer Fiorillo, president and CEO of Bridges Healthcare, Jennifer Paradis from Beth-El Center, and Megan Altomare the executive director of Boys and Girls Club. All the things they are involved in improving in Milford is staggering; they really reach into the community and make a difference and I am buoyed by knowing all the good work that
comes out of those organizations. With their direction, they have weaved together a kind of social safety net in our community. That’s something we can really be proud of.
TG: Mr. Joseph D’Amato. I more or less grew up with his son, who was my best friend. Mr. D’Amato inspired me. I remember growing up as an ‘80s kid, all the development that was happening in Milford, and the opportunity that he brought to people by building housing; he was one of the biggest home builders at that time. He developed a lot of neighborhoods, and he built shopping centers where people were opening small businesses on the Post Road like delis and hair salons. Then he started building these industrial parks and people were able to start businesses here and work here. For me, having that front row seat as someone very young growing up in a city that was growing, and him bringing all this opportunity for people to live here, people to shop here, and work here all at the same time, was a huge inspiration.
ML: This year, we had issues with some of our Oyster beds due to unknown pollutants. How will you, as mayor, ensure the safety of our watershed from river to shore?
TG: We’ve been very proactive in a lot of the investigation that’s taken place.
We’ve put money in front of us to rectify the situation, which it has been. The state is still working on helping and assisting and identifying things that could potentially happen in the future. But at this point, everything has been addressed in real time, and we are constantly monitoring. We have a great health department that’s closely involved with our public works director. I don’t think it’s an ongoing issue.
RS: The first thing I would have done was let the people of Milford know what was happening. I would have let people know that we were facing contamination of our oyster beds, that we were trying to find (the contamination source), and the city departments were working together with the state. I don’t know what we can say in the way to avoid it until we know for sure what happened. There’s still debate about what the source was. But the question reminds me of the need to be more transparent. The contamination is a great example of where we should have been more responsible in sharing the information. I’m not here to judge, but we should have communicated better.
ML: The Milford business community comes together to support city events, and to instill community pride. How will you increase the support of all small business communities from Devon to Woodmont?
TG: I have always been in favor of not only financial support, but
also in-kind services. We installed decorations on the lightposts up and down Bridgeport Avenue in Devon. I’ve been to the Walnut Beach tree lighting, that is supported by the city which provides in-kind services for the tree lighting down there. We are also supporting the upcoming new Lobster Roll Festival. We want everyone to share in what they’re doing and the purpose of what they’re doing, and make sure that they’re well-funded.
RS: The businesses between Devon and Woodmont and Bayview, they’re not getting the resources they need to level up for their communities. How do you make sure that everybody knows that they’re going to be regarded when it comes time to do things that are very publicspirited. I think there needs to be some equity in the way the city focuses on supporting small businesses. Devon’s a great example. This is an untapped resource for us. Back in the day, this is where people would come into Milford—through Devon—and they’d take trolleys down to the beach. I really think that the city has an obligation to maintain neighborhoods in an attractive way to kind of maintain the character of the city from border to border, from east to west.
ML: Two years from now, Milford is... (fill in the blank).
RS: We’re a charming and vibrant small city with reasonable taxes,
great recreational facilities, and continue to be the small city with a big heart.
TG: Milford’s moving forward. It will continue to move forward.
Milford will continue to grow economically, and through more opportunities, attract new businesses while supporting those already rooted in our community.
ELECTION DAY is Tuesday, November 4th. To find out where to vote and how to register, visit milfordct.us/612/Registrars-of-Voters.
Christmas tree season Opens on Black Friday! We are Open Monday thru Thursday 9am-7pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9am-8pm. We will have fresh cut trees from Canada and northern Maine, wreaths, roping and arrangements! We carry large cathedral ceiling Christmas Trees. On the weekends we will have the fire pit to warm up by and if you get lucky you may even spot Santa walking around! We hope from our family to yours you have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season! Need your Christmas Tree delivered? Call the farm and ask to speak to Jack!
ADAPTING ARCHITECTURE
Some of Milford’s Most Recognizable Buildings Began Life as Something Entirely Different
BY ANN MCGUIRE
Reuse, repurpose, remodel: the bywords of sustainability when it comes to keeping the past alive in architecture. Milford’s rich history dates back almost four centuries, so the bucolic town-turned-thriving-city has seen just about every type of building style, from colonial saltboxes to Beaux-Arts mansions.
While much of Milford’s older architecture has fallen victim to changing times, all was not lost. Some buildings have endured by being adapted for modern use. Here is just a sample of some of Milford’s iconic structures that began life as one thing only to be transformed over time.
TOULSON BUILDING
Built in 1908, and known locally as the Yellow Building, this West River Street Beaux-Arts beauty was once Milford High School (though for a time it also housed grades 1-8). During WWII, the
roof was used as a post for enemy plane spotters. With the rise Milford’s population came the need for more space, and in 1951 the “new” high school opened around the corner (see page 38). The “Old Milford High School” (as it is also
known) deteriorated over the years and was threatened with demolition in the mid-80s before, thankfully, being saved and repurposed. Today, the building named after one-time state representative Diane S. Toulson houses the River Park Apartments featuring 39 units of housing for seniors and persons with disabilities.
FIREHOUSE GALLERY
The original volunteer fire companies that serviced Myrtle Beach and Walnut Beach were consolidated in 1919 into a new firehouse on Naugatuck Avenue at Stowe Avenue. When it opened in 1920,
The distinctive building is one of the last surviving remnants of a downtown once graced with beautiful Edwardian homes. It came a hair’s breadth from being torn down before the Milford Historical Society and local residents stepped in.
ANN MCGUIRE(2)
The brightly colored Firehouse Gallery is a perfect example of how old buildings can be renovated for new use and thrive.
Milford Fire Company No. 3 served the popular seaside community year-round. After closing in 2000, the Milford Arts Council worked with city officials to repurpose the station into an arts center. The Firehouse Gallery opened in 2002 with 1,000 feet of bright gallery space and today is an anchor in the vibrant Walnut Beach arts and culture scene.
WALNUT BEACH CREAMERY
Now a mainstay in a revitalized Walnut Beach, the colorful green and pink home of flavors including Mad Mollye and Sinful Ginger was once the place where thousands of postcards from happy visiting beachgoers were processed. The stucco building housing the Walnut Beach branch of the U.S. Post Office (officially called Station No. 1) opened in October 1946, bringing full-service amenities to a neighborhood that had previously been served by substations located inside local variety shops. The branch remained in operation for half a century before closing and eventually, finding fame as a beloved ice cream parlor.
The distinctive corner entrance was wisely repurposed as a serving window when Susan Patrick opened Walnut Beach Creamery inside the one-time post office.
The “new” Milford High School became the Parson’s Government Complex opened in 1987.
ANN MCGUIRE
ANN MCGUIRE
PARSONS COMPLEX
The “new” Milford High School opened in 1951 to support the growth of the community and graduated its last class in 1983. The sprawling red brick edifice built on the original site of Clark’s Tavern became the Parson’s Government Complex, housing many city offices as well as The Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium (home of Milford Performance Center), and the gymnasium. The lobby boasts display cases full of Milford High School memorabilia, and history lurks behind the drywall that covers the original hallway lockers.
SPINNAKER WHARF
Now considered prime real estate overlooking Lisman Landing, in 1852 the Factory Lane site was occupied by a straw hat factory opened by Elisha Flagg and Nathan Baldwin. At its peak it employed more than 700 who turned out millions of hats before they fell out of fashion and the factory ceased operations in the 1920s. It was good steady work up until then since the fashion rules of the day dictated that men wear straw hats from May 15 – Sept. 15th. It was commonplace to “stomp” or destroy the hats of those caught wearing them out of season, prompting the purchase of a new hat the next year. That socially acceptable ridicule went into overdrive in 1922 and led to an 8-day hat stomping frenzy that came to be known as the Straw Hat Riots.
SMITH BUILDING
Located at 247 Broad Street at the western end of the Green and now the home of professional medical offices, the site once housed a Grand Union Supermarket. Opened in 1958, the then-modern store featured all the requisite atomic-era necessities including TV dinners, baby formula, Ajax cleanser, and Rinso. The supermarket had previously been the site of the stately Carrington House and lasted until 1978 when it was purchased and remodeled by the Smith brothers.
THE MAC
The beloved downtown performing arts center began life as the eastbound station on the New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad (New Haven Line) in 1881. The building, which had also once housed a lamp factory, had been vacant for years. In 1984, the Milford Arts Council began looking for a permanent home. It took years of fundraising before the doors of the MAC finally opened in 1995. The 110 seat theatre (home to the aptly named Eastbound Theatre
Before straw hats went out of fashion, this bustling factory building that is now Spinnaker Wharf, was home to 700 people who worked by daylight and candlelight.
The Grand Union that pre-dated today’s Smith Building was conveniently located at the end of the Green within walking distance for many.
JEFFREY BLOCH
Company among others) and gallery space emerged from an $800,000 restoration that included roof repairs, eave replacement, cellar excavation, reconstruction of beams and floors, as well as “depigeoning.”
FIRE ENGINE PIZZA COMPANY
The long empty Engine Co. No. 6 fire station at 204 Melba Street finally has its new lease on life. Fire Engine Pizza Company opened its (garage) doors in March to much fanfare and enthusiasm. The one-time neighborhood station (along with Woodmont’s Engine 5) closed in 2013, replaced with the newer, larger station on New Haven Ave. The building was purchased by the restaurant owners in 2015, but multiple setbacks, including COVID-19, led to a decades-long marathon before it finally opened. The firehouse feel remains intact.
MILFORD PHOTO
The impressive Neoclassical Revival building on River Street that now houses Connecticut’s best photographic shop was built for the Milford Trust Company in the early 20th century. After the bank merged and moved
Milford’s success at adapting architecture is evident in the unique use of (Top) The Milford Arts Center, (Center) Fire House Pizza, and (Bottom) Milford Photo.
ANN MCGUIRE(2)
ANN MCGUIRE
in the late ‘50s or early ‘60s, it served as the City of Milford Tax Office before becoming the home of Town Squire, a men’s clothing shop. It was Town and Country Florists before Milford Camera’s then manager Jim Wilson opened Milford Photo in 1995, 30 years ago.
SBC
Abutting the Memorial Bridge and overlooking the Wepawaug “gorge,” the 1928 brick and granite Romanesque Revival building was constructed to complement the Memorial Tower across the street. It served as many different stores before being transformed into SBC in the early 2000s, including Jennefer’s Gown Shop in the 1960s. It’s also fondly remembered as the home of Mama Bear’s Place, a new mother and baby shop, that closed in 2000.
The original Romanesque Revival architecture of what is now SBC can be viewed best from the bridge over the gorge looking out towards the Harbor.
JEFFREY BLOCH
Local Airwaves
Whether listening while on the drive to work, at the gym, or in the comfort of our homes, there seems to be a podcast or radio station for everyone. In the Milford community, local podcasts and radio shows are a great platform to showcase all that our town has to offer, while spreading awareness of different causes and issues that affect the city.
Milford resident Jeremy Wells began his podcast DDWD (Day Drinking With Dog) out of boredom during the pandemic. Wells used his platform to help shed light on local businesses and charities. “I decided to have guests—and in the beginning, it was mostly friends—but then I pivoted to help the community in promoting restaurants and bars during the pandemic. Then it kind of morphed again into promoting charities and local organizations in Milford and surrounding towns,” Wells explains. He wants the podcast to feel like you’re in the room with him and engaging in conversation. Wells and his guests partake
of a few adult beverages while recording (hence the podcast name), which has evolved since those early days. “Today it is a potpourri of topics all depending on the guest,” he says. “I can touch on current events, pop culture, politics, and sports still with a local feel.” In addition, says Wells, “I feel it is important to have a local podcast, especially for a town like Milford, that always has something going on—whether it’s Pirate Day or the Oysterfest and everything in between.”
still going strong today.
As for the guests on the podcasts, there has been quite a wide variety. The list ranges from local celebrities and political figures to professional athletes and veterans who served our country. Mayor Tony Giannattasio has been a guest, as well as former mayor Ben Blake. “I’ve had ex-ESPN host Dan Patrick, ex-Mets GM Steve Phillips, former Red Sox first baseman Will Middlebrooks, ex-Navy Seal Robert O’Neill, social media influencers Callie Bundy and Lindsay Capuano, and many local business owners and organizers.”
While listening to podcasts is incredibly popular, local radio shows have long been important to communities. The 18-34 demographic is shifting toward more on-demand options. While 45 percent of the age group listens to radio, podcasts, and streaming or satellite audio make up 55 percent of their listening time.
WOW Radio is based in Wallingford but is hosted by Milfordites Brian Smith and Pam Landry, both radio veterans of more than four decades. Their show features a
Jeremy Wells started his podcast Day Drinking with Dog during the pandemic and is
Radio veterans Pam Landry and Brian Smith have been trusted voices for the Milford community for over four decades.
Governor Ned Lamont was a visitor to WOW radio, as was Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. Local podcasts and radio shows keep listeners informed on important issues and local happenings. Tune in.
variety of guests from local non-profits and businesses, and other “people in your neighborhood.”
“We are fortunate to have a platform that we can share with organizations and businesses to help bring attention to what
CELEBRATE COMMUNITY
they do and publicize events they are holding in the community,” says Landry. “We provide a service both to those organizations and businesses AND to the listeners that hear what’s happening in their communities; we help bring awareness.”
Like DDWD, WOW Radio often puts the focus on Milford. “Brian and I are always bringing Milford into the mix since we both live here,” Landry says. “Brian is a lifelong resident—I call him the defacto Mayor—and is at almost EVERY event in Milford. Next time you are at an outdoor event in Milford look for the WowRadioCT tent … chances are you’ll see it!”
—Kaitlyn Garrity
Lost Haunts milford memories
Most of us who grew up in town, or have been here for a long time, had our favorite places to hang out with friends, listen to music, and enjoy the happy hour wings. Some were right around the corner from our homes, while others were worth the drive across town. We hope you enjoy this spin down memory lane, highlighting the places we used to go that now only exist in our memories.
THE RED ARROW
The Arrow was a fixture in Devon center for decades, a truly local watering hole with plenty of regulars. With an occasional small band, it was always a good time. Being a neighborhood spot, you could always make your way home by walking after a few too many.
“The final night of the Red Arrow was New Year’s Eve 2008/2009. There was 1 inch of snow on the ground. The last song we played, as I recall, was
“Not Fade Away.” Speaking for myself, everyone had a great time. Over the years I have made many posters for the many bands I have played in!” —Glenn Behrle of the Sofa Kings
VILLA NOVA / STAR CAFE
Just across the road and down a bit from the Arrow was the Villa Nova / Star Café. They hosted bands and movie stars. Not long before The Star Café closed it was used as a location for the movie Righteous Kill with Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.
Locals crowded into Devon in the hope of catching a glimpse of the two Academy Award winners at work. Once The Star closed, it was purchased and renovated by the Irish Heritage Club of Milford. Still a fun place to check out.
“Gene Smith from Alice Coopers’ band and many other professional musicians played there; top notch talent.” —Jim Amann
THE EMERALD ROOM
In mid-20th century Milford, the Emerald Room was a regional draw with acts such as the world-famous performer Gypsy Rose Lee; there was always a full house. Despite the burlesque acts, it was an elegant place where couples dressed to the nines for cocktails and a show. Located on the water at Walnut Beach, it was a storied venue. Bob Crane was the in-house drummer, and Don Rickles performed his stand-up show there.
“It was a lovely club for an evening out for couples. Everyone dressed up for a swanky night out and the entertainment was always top notch.” —Joan Williams
Glenn Behrle memorializes the last show at the Red Arrow.
A sidewalk spot in Devon marks the filming of Righteous Kill at the old Star Cafe.
Actress, stripper, author, playwright, and vedette, Gypsy Rose Lee performed at the Emerald Room.
SUSAN CARROLL DWYER
THE PILGRIM
The Pilgrim, situated near Fort Trumbull beach, began hosting Milfordites in the early 1900s. Along with great food, the bar was a terrific place for a drink...or two…or three. There was usually a small band playing and odds were you would run into friends from high school. It eventually changed over to a place called T.J. McKiff’s, which had a great run into the early 2000s.
“My cousin lived right down the street. Fun bar, tasty food, and they often had music. You could drink your fill, hang out, and walk home without the need for a sobriety test.”
—Jason Williams
THE REDWOOD
The Redwood was another neighborhood spot that offered great food and a lively atmosphere. Families and friends would walk to the Naugatuck Avenue location, as parking was limited. A lattice divider split a restaurant and bar. Players from their storied softball team sported their Redwood jackets, and with two TV’s, there were always a couple of games on.
ELLERY’S
“There was nothing better than coming home at Thanksgiving and meeting up at the Redwood. We always ordered Black Label draft, it was the cheapest beer they served. I ran into (Redwood owner) Larry Kochiss a few years ago walking out to Charles Island and told him about “Label Grimace.” Sometimes it was delicious and sometimes it was awful. Larry laughed and said it was just an old tap handle he kept using and the beer was whatever was the cheapest keg the guy had on the beer truck! It was hilarious!” —Jim MacFayden
JOCK & JILLS
Jock & Jills was situated on the corner of Woodmont Road and Route 1. It looked almost like an old harbor building and had a great energy about it. Often open until 3:00 am, they were the go-to place for after-hours drinks. With music blasting, it was always a dancing good time.
“It was my local bar. It was great! Everyone knew each other. Even better it was walking distance of home and work!” —Dan Sennett
Everyone who went to Ellery’s was truly entertained. Every weekend, and often during the week, there was something happening. They had a variety of bands, DJs, line dancing, and a favorite of the ladies in town, male “dancers”. There was always music, drink specials, and plenty of dancing.
“We would have a girl’s night out on occasion to check out the male strippers. There was one
The Pilgrim closed and became TJ McKiffs but it still had a great local vibe.
The sign at the Redwood once lit the way for hungry and thirsty patrons.
The Polish Pony a.k.a Mark Rohrig saying hello to a lucky lady at Ellery’s.
the place to hit after last call.
JJ RICHARDS
DICK PLATT
DAN SENNETT
COURTESY OF MARK ROHRIG
milford memories
particular show where one of the dancers was dressed up as Pee-wee Herman and stripped to Tequila. Everyone went crazy; a most memorable night.” —Penny Boland
THE APPLE AKA RASCALS
This storied club was situated directly on Cedar Beach. It was the best place to listen to bands. There were concerts in the club almost every night and sometimes on the beach. In 1969 or 1970 there was a fire. After the fire, everyone referred to it the Baked Apple. Jim Amann took on the task of rebuilding it with friends helping to get it back into shape, like giving it a roof again. In the early 80s Rascals opened, and it was hopping!
“The Apple aka the Baked Apple aka Rascals
Rascals concerts on the beach were legendary.
were times that all that went there will cherish and why not? The drinking age was 18. It was a great place to hang out, meet up with friends,
and make new ones. THE place to listen to top notch rock and roll whether in the club or on the beach. Top bands played there included Gary US
Se Habla Espanol
Everyone who went to the Beachcomber threw a few darts.
Bonds, along with the beach events with WPLR, one featuring NRBQ. We were so lucky to have enjoyed such a great era.” —Jim Amann
THE BEACHCOMBER
Located across from Bayview Beach, The Beachcomber was a casual place to meet up.
Renowned for darts, they had some serious league play, but everyone eventually had a turn, hoping for the elusive bullseye. Sadly, due to continuous flooding issues, they decided to close the doors. On the upside for many who went there, they had a sale of all the contents –items were snapped up quickly as mementos of the merriment that was had by all.
“Most people affectionately called it ‘The Comber.’ It was a great neighborhood place. Every year they raised money which they donated to Toys for Tots. Everyone could just hang out and be themselves. A casual, welcoming place. Loved it! Miss it!”— Debbie Bonvicini Winters
—Susan Carroll Dwyer
up and comers
In Performance: A Day in the Life
Editor’s Note: Milford Living’s summer intern Erin Morton recently appeared on stage in The Addams Family, based on the indelible Charles Addams cartoons and the beloved 1960s TV show. We asked Erin to share her experiences and lift the curtain on what goes on behind the scenes at a local theater performance.
On August 11, 2025, I held my final two performances as Alice Beineke in the Pantochino Teen Theater production of The Addams Family. After just two short weeks of rehearsals, with a mixture of hard work and fun, the cast was ready to take the stage together one last time. A two-show-a-day schedule is both difficult and draining, but also deeply rewarding and deeply memorable.
GETTING TO THE THEATER
My day began long before arriving at the theater. I started my morning at 9 a.m., prepping my hair and voice for the hours to come. As my sister braided my hair, I used my handheld vocal steamer to soothe my throat and
focus on the day ahead.
By 10:30 a.m. I was out the door, driving with my dear friend Maya Barnes, who still has another year with Teen Theater while juggling work and college applications. “While it can be stressful to manage all these aspects of my life, something as simple as carpooling reminds me of the support system I have within Pantochino,” she said.
During our drive we stopped for bagels, savoring our time together before heading in.
Playing a role like Alice, it was important for me to prep myself physically and mentally before stepping into the theater to give a vocally dynamic performance.
GETTING READY
We arrived for our 12 p.m. call time and found our place at the vanities, the behind-the-scenes community beginning to form.
The Addams Family cast was made up of teens (ages 13-18) from across Connecticut, and it was a joy to spend preshow moments with cast members of all ages and backgrounds.
The dressing room quickly became a buzzing sea of makeup, hairpins, cough drops, and gummy bears.
Erin Morton, summer intern for Milford Living and actress with Pantochino, delivers her character’s comedic lines.
“The Addams Family” full cast gathers for an in character group photo before the final show.
BERT BERNARDI AND FIORELLA GARIOLA(2)
Cast members like Barrett Welch contributed to the communal supplies, sharing things like bobby pins and makeup wipes. “Supporting the backstage process has become just as meaningful to me as performing,” she says. “I value being part of the collaborative effort that brings a musical to life.”
The final moments before the start of the show were spent with the whole cast circled up together. We amped ourselves up through pre-show rituals and a flurry of inside jokes, setting our sights on putting on the best possible performance.
SHOW ONE
The first show went off with infectious energy. Backstage was a maze of movement, people, and props, but also where small moments of kindness occurred. Senior company member Patrick Guthrie (“Lurch”) waited in the wings with a high five and a massive fan to help cool the cast down. “I wanted to try to make everyone comfortable emotionally and physically,” he explained. “Theatre can be draining, especially doing two shows twice.”
As the butler Lurch, Patrick embraced his comedic chops in his final Pantochino production before heading to Northeastern University in the fall.
Offstage, I grabbed my water, slipped off my heels, and watched
friends perform. It is always so satisfying to see everyone’s hard work pay off.
BREAK
Between shows, the cast recharged with lunch and Disney movies. Little memories like these are what I will remember most.
After getting ready one last time, we took cast pictures. Fiorella Gargiola, our production’s Wednesday Addams, took special care in coordinating these photos. Beyond her dedication to the theater, she has a deep love for photography, capturing
Seniors Connor Rizzo, Erin Morton, and Luke Hatzis take the stage as the Beineke Family.
moments people always want to remember. “Turning on my camera to gather memories is my favorite thing to do,” she said. “Taking pictures of the process and joy of being on stage is the best way to hold onto amazing days, to make them last forever.”
In our final circle, it was hard not to get emotional; we poured energy and passion into building this show, and now we would tell the story one last time. I looked around at the people who inspired me, and those I hoped to inspire; this was all the motivation I needed.
SHOW TWO
I waited to make my entrance with two fellow seniors as we watched our friends in the opening number with pride. Though my Teen Theater journey is ending, there is beauty in new beginnings. Fourteen-year-old Ryder Blanchard, making his debut, shared: “The Addams Family has been one of the best shows I’ve ever done. It made me feel at home because of how close everyone was. Not a single person was left out”
During that final performance, I held similar thoughts and reveled
in each moment both on stage and backstage.
In the end, many memories blur into a chaotic haze, but I will never forget the people and the connections I made. The beauty of theater is the community it creates; shared goals that produced a phenomenal show, a joyous atmosphere, and a rich community that was a treasure to be a part of.
—Erin Morton
Cast members enjoy the camaraderie of the show both on stage and off stage.
Pre-school Play
Play is an essential activity for children as part of their development. It helps them explore their environment and socialize with others. There are a few programs in Milford that cater specifically to pre-school aged children who want to play, create art, or connect with other kids.
PERFECT PLAYDATE
163 Cherry Street, Milford (475) 882-8162
perfectplaydateCT.com
Jennifer Close is the owner/operator of Perfect Playdate. As a former high school counselor and cheerleading coach, she started a child-centered business outside of public education because she was looking for a change in her life and saw a need in the community. “Families with young children, especially new moms, deserve a welcoming space to play, connect, and feel supported,” says Close. “As a Milford mom
Perfect Playdate fosters imaginative play in a relaxed and supportive environment.
myself, I often found that we were missing spaces focused on slower, imaginative play— especially for children ages 0-6.”
This new business, which opened in June 2025, is geared toward parents who want a calm and thoughtful space for their children to play, and moms and caregivers looking for a connection during the early years of parenthood. “Whether it’s to enjoy a quiet moment with a coffee, meet other families, or watch their child explore imaginative play, Perfect Playdate offers a warm, welcoming environment where both kids and parents feel at home,” says Close.
Perfect Playdate features classes for toddlers and preschoolers who can explore, discover, and connect with other kids in a relaxed, supportive environment. There are different play areas that encourage open-ended pretend play with toys and supplies that are made for little hands and big imaginations. Perfect Playdate also offers story time, themed events, drop-off camp options, and social groups that kick off this fall. Evening events with guest
speakers are another option for moms and dads who want to connect with other parents.
Parents supervise their children when they spend time at Perfect Playdate. Seating areas and a viewing counter let caregivers relax and enjoy some coffee while they’re watching their little ones.
If you’re interested in Perfect Playdate, you can drop in for a single session or sign up for a membership. “Some families like to come occasionally when their schedule allows, while others love having the option to visit more regularly and take advantage of member perks,” Close explains. “It’s really about creating a space that works for everyone—whether you’re popping in for a spontaneous playdate or making us part of your weekly routine.”
Makayla Silva opened The Giggling Pig in Walnut Beach in 2022 to create a meaningful space “where people feel seen and connected.” The facility caters to children ages 1-12. “Our
COURTESY OF THE GIGGLING PIG(2)
toddler programming is a big part of our studio’s heartbeat,” Silva notes. “It’s where many kids have their very first experience with art and self-expression outside the home.”
A team of Giggling Pig artists, educators, and caregivers provide classes for children for ages 1-12.
education notebook
Classes range from 45-60 minutes and center on open-ended, process-based art experiences that focus on how children create, rather than what the result is. “Each class includes sensory play, paint exploration, and immersive creative projects,” Silva explains.
The space allows young participants to relax and engage with others, and is where Silva and her team of artists, educators, and caregivers value “connection over perfection.” More than just a class, the sense of community allows kids to slow down and create together. Creativity, confidence, and compassion, are the core values of the program.
The Giggling Pig’s signature toddler and caregiver class is called Piglet’s Playgroup. It
features music, movement, and storytelling. “It’s gentle, seasonal, and filled with curated sensory and art experiences designed to support early development,” explains Silva. “As a mom, I designed this program to feel more like a
community than a class—it’s a place to connect with your child and with other parents in a meaningful way.”
While the classes are centered around art, community is the goal. “We’re building more
At The Giggling Pig, the process of creation is more important than the end result.
than skills—we’re building belonging,” says Silva. “Families come back because their kids feel safe to express themselves and grow, and because parents feel seen and supported.”
Silva’s background in community development taught her the importance of investing in local spaces that bring people together. “I wanted to create a place where art wasn’t just an activity, but a way to foster connection, growth, and community,” she says.
The Giggling Pig has been honored with the “Best of Milford” award for Best Place to have a Kid’s Party. However, Silva says the
The Giggling Pig is a perfect place for preschooler to party in a creative space.
most important critics are the kids. “The best recognition is when a child walks in beaming and says, ‘This is my favorite place.’ Or when a parent tells us their child finally feels like they belong somewhere. That’s what keeps us going.”
Parents can sign children up for a session of classes or just drop in for a single class, giving families the flexibility they need to accommodate their schedules.
Note: The Milford Public Library is a great resource for finding events for pre-school aged children. As of this publication date, the library had not finalized its fall programming yet, but they typically offer programs for children specifically under the age of five.
—Noelle Talmon
CHECK OUT THE MILFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Milford Public Library is where many children first fall in love with stories. It’s preschool programs are warm, lively gatherings filled with picture books, songs, and playful activities that spark curiosity. For parents and caregivers, its also a welcoming space to connect with others and share the experience of watching little ones grow. These special moments of singing along and turning pages together help build literacy and confidence. You can visit the Milford Public Library at 57 New Haven Ave. or online at: https://milfordct.us/452/Milford-Public-Library
Pe di atr ic Ho use
Hope Across Borders at your service
Apoor child born in the United States is 20-30 times wealthier at birth than a poor child born in most of the rest of the world. They are also far more likely to escape poverty, live longer, and gain access to education and assets, even if they never rise to the middle class. This doesn’t minimize poverty within the U.S., but it underscores the vast global disparity and the relative advantages of being born in a wealthy country.
Since 1978, the Parish Twinning Program of the Americas (PTPA)—a Catholic nonprofit organization—has connected U.S. parishes with impoverished parishes in Central and South America. These “twinning” relationships foster
Surgical mission volunteer Dr. Mark Maxfield (right), assisted by an interpreter, examines a young boy before umbilical hernia surgery.
collaboration, empowerment, and the sharing of resources and knowledge to address poverty at the local level.
In the early 2000s, Precious Blood Parish—comprised of Saint Mary and Saint
Agnes Roman Catholic Churches in Milford— partnered with PTPA and was twinned with St. Thérèse Parish of Marbial, Haiti. In response, the “Haiti Ministry” was formed with a mission to “assist the needy through ministries grounded in the works of mercy.”
Positioned between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the Republic of Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. Marbial—a remote district of Jacmel—is located on Haiti’s southern peninsula, about 25 miles from the capital, Port-au-Prince. True to its Creole name, which means “hard,” Marbial is a difficult place to live. Though once a major coffee-producing region with rich agricultural potential, environmental degradation from deforestation, erosion, and flooding has left the area struggling under the weight of extreme poverty.
From the start, the Haiti Ministry focused on clean water infrastructure and delivering clothing, school supplies, and basic medicine
Local Haitians gather inside St. Thérèse Church in Marbial, awaiting examination by the Precious Blood Parish medical team.
DR. RICHARD GARVEY
DR. RICHARD GARVEY
to the residents of Marbial. But its most impactful initiative began in 2010 with an annual medical pilgrimage. The mission brought together volunteer nurses, pediatricians, anesthesiologists, and other professionals who spent one week a year treating hundreds of patients.
Dr. Richard Garvey, a retired surgeon at Bridgeport Hospital, was an integral member of the medical team. He credits Dr. Meredith Williams, also of Milford, with helping guide the mission’s success. “Her grasp of the medical realities in such an environment—population size, access issues, illness prevalence—was
incredible,” he recalls. Operating out of a small hospital in Jacmel, the team treated conditions ranging from diabetes and hypertension to dental disease and burn scars. In a modest one-room surgical suite,
they performed up to 20 surgeries per week, often hernia repairs. Sadly, 2018 marked the final medical mission, as political instability and gang violence in Haiti made travel unsafe. Although most of the unrest is concentrated around Port-au-Prince, supply shipments are often intercepted, and travel by ministries has become too dangerous.
Still, the needs of the Marbial remain urgent. Precious Blood Parish continues to raise funds and focus on sustainable programs through established local partnerships. One key initiative is its ongoing support of the schools within St.
A typical mountain home near Marbial, where up to 10–12 family members often live under one roof.
DR. RICHARD GARVEY
at your service
Thérèse Parish. By covering much of the teachers’ salaries, the ministry has improved staff retention and student academic performance. A daily hot meal is provided to every student—often their only meal of the day. The Haiti Ministry also partners with the Université Notre-Dame D’Haiti Uders de Jacmel, providing tuition for students pursuing nursing or civil engineering. In return, graduates commit to serving their community for two years after earning their degrees.
Acts of service often enrich the giver as much as the receiver. For those born into privilege, helping others can be an expression of gratitude as well as solidarity. In a world defined by disparity, hope may be the most
vital medicine we have to give. Reflecting on his years of volunteerism in Haiti, Liberia, and India, Dr. Garvey shares, “The most common disease in the world is depression. If nothing else, these missions bring hope— hope that life can improve, that someone cares, that they are not forgotten.”
—Jill Roberts
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
“Being a parishioner is not a requirement for becoming part of the ministry,” says Charles Wetmore, the Haiti Ministry’s current chairperson. “Several of our longest-tenured and most relied-upon members are not.” If you’re interested in joining the effort:
• VOLUNTEER: Send an email to dhogan@pbpmilford.org
• SUPPORT A FUNDRAISER: The ministry hosts events throughout the year, including its upcoming pewter Christmas ornament sale launching in late fall.
• DONATE: Make a monetary contribution at www.preciousbloodparishmilford.org/giving.
For details on how to purchase, participate, or donate, contact the parish office at the email above.
• We beat other prices
• New carpet and hardwood selections now in stock • Wood vinyl planks on display
Cleaning and repairs on area rugs
Next day delivery on in-stock items with warranty
milford green
From the Ground Up
If you’re frustrated by high utility bills, or maintaining and replacing outdated parts on your HVAC system, have you considered switching to a renewable energy source? Harnessing solar power with panels or installing air-source heat pumps are popular options, but when it comes to the most efficient heating and cooling, geothermal systems are ranked number one. Combined with solar, a geothermal unit can help your home achieve “zero-energy” status, producing as much energy as it consumes over a year.
“We installed our geothermal system 14 years ago, when our oil furnace stopped working,” says one New Haven County homeowner (who prefers anonymity). “Our heating bills reduced by 33-50%, and air conditioning bills dropped by about 75%. The system is quiet and clean, the temperature never fluctuates, and we don’t produce any
pollution. We’re very pleased.”
Geothermal energy is the heat from below the earth’s surface that can be used for heating and cooling. “Simply explained, it’s a refrigeration system, no different to the refrigerator in your kitchen that moves heat from one place to another,” says Ted Chittem, engineer at Onofreo Home Comfort Systems. “It grabs from the ground in winter and discharges energy into the ground in summer.” Located at 280 Quarry Road in Milford, Onofreo offers extensive HVAC services throughout Connecticut. And Chittem, as “the top geo guy in CT… with over 400 installations over three decades,” speaks from experience. “Conventional heat pumps or A/C systems have two disadvantages over geothermal: one, air contains very little energy as it has little mass or density. The ground beneath our feet contains about 3500 times the energy density of air. Two, the temperature of air ranges 100 degrees. In winter, as the temperature goes down, there is less energy contained in the air
when more energy is required to heat your home. The same problem exists in summer in the opposite direction. The ground, on the other hand, is a steady 53 degrees in the Connecticut area all year long.”
Compared to oil and gas, which are finite sources, geothermal draws energy from an infinite subterranean source. “It is 450% efficient,” Chittem notes, “producing 4.5 units of energy (watts) for every one unit paid for!”
A geothermal system’s components “are mostly the same as an air source heat pump with two primary differences,” he explains. “The unit located outside is now inside and an exterior heat exchanger is required. In our area, this means one or more vertical bores
in the ground, installed by a well drilling contractor, with tubing that carries a fluid mix of 80% water and 20% propylene glycol (scary name, but it is in ice cream). An electric pump moves the fluid.”
Chittem recommended consulting “multiple companies to obtain quotes, and compare experience, services, and
pricing before deciding. Get references from contractors that have systems exceeding 10 years old. Executing geothermal correctly requires special training. This comes from manufacturers directly or from an entity called IGSHPA, the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association.”
Average costs are subject to construction
milford green
variables. According to the multinational company Carrier Global, geothermal units range between $12,000 to $45,000, including installation. Federal tax credits expire in 2032, but Connecticut offers geothermal rebates from $3,000 to $15,000 depending on the project size. Homeowners can check the Energize CT website for info about rebates, incentives, financing, suppliers, contractors, retailers, and programs.
“About 1 in 20 CT HVAC contractors are currently certified and capable of designing, installing, and repairing geothermal systems, but that list is growing,” says Chittem. Matthew McKay, business development and marketing manager at Milford’s Modern Heating & Air Conditioning agrees,
hoping that, “servicing those units will become a common part of our business.”
Homeowners may hesitate to invest in geothermal due to Connecticut’s high electricity rates and current low fossil fuel prices. Chittem’s take? “In heating, geothermal will be at parity with the current
price of oil or natural gas and have an advantage over propane or air source heat pumps. On the cooling side, operating at 40% the cost of a new air conditioning unit, and averaging 25% costs of a 20-year-old system, geothermal shines brightest.”
—Cindy
Papish Gerber
this old home
Old Soles Protected Homes
An old house may reveal much about how people lived centuries ago, but why they did certain things may remain a mystery forever. One particular mystery stretches from the British Isles to 230 High Street, Milford.
When David and Marie Orrell moved from Monroe to a “new” house in Milford that was built in 1768, they knew they were in for a lot of restoration work. After all, the house is older than the country. With some research, the Orrell’s discovered that the original owner was John Baldwin (1717-1809) who was likely related to an earlier John Baldwin, one of Milford’s first settlers. An 1868 map shows that by that time, one M. T. Baldwin owned the house. It was originally located within the palisades (fortifications built to protect residents from Indian attack) on
Middle Street that later became High Street.
The 900-foot-square dwelling was constructed in a post and beam manner secured by wooden pegs, not nails. In typical New England Colonial style, it has a central chimney that vented three fireplaces.
The house, however, contained many surprises, and slowly gave up some of its secrets.
The Orrell’s discovered about 15 different shoes hidden within the walls—but always a single shoe. Among archeologists and historians there is a term for this: “Concealed Shoes.” This refers to a single shoe deliberately hidden in walls, under floorboards, over windows, inside chimneys, or up in the roof rafters. There was a documented discovery of a single shoe hidden behind a wall in Oxford, England in 1540, and apparently the custom crossed the ocean to America where most single shoe finds have come from the 1700 to 1800 eras.
Both adult’s and children’s single shoes showed that most had been repaired numerous times. Afterall, shoes were expensive and likely the costliest thing a person owned. Single shoes were hidden in the homes of families of all economic backgrounds, but most were found in homes of working-class families. Many shoes
have been hidden in basements, and the guess is that they were put there by men while building foundations and cellars.
Why were single shoes hidden in houses? No one knows.
What happened to the matching shoe? No one knows.
So far, nothing conclusive in writing has been found about this custom.
Some believe a hidden child’s shoe was a wish to have many children. Another explanation favored by most scholars, says single shoes were concealed to protect against evil influences such as ghosts and witches.
David and Marie Orrell saved another part of Milford’s history when they restored their 1700’s home on High Street.
“Concealed Shoes” were found hidden in the walls and under floorboards in the house.
S.J. CAHILL (4)
The shoes found in this 257-year-old house certainly did save it from evil influences. In the 1950s it was condemned by the town and scheduled to be demolished. There were a few potential buyers, but a sale did not occur. Thankfully, it is now in the hands of the Orrell’s, who have a deep respect for old dwellings and antiques.
The floorboards all around the central chimney had to be opened all the way to the top so that new bricks could close any weakened spots. “Dust, lots of dust,” recalls Marie.
The house’s electrical work is up to code to accommodate heating and air- conditioning systems. There is even a central vacuuming system. Imagine what an early mistress of the house would have thought about that being possible—about as much as she would believe
that one day men would walk on the moon.
At various times during the life of this house, the current owner would give it an up-to-date look. So, horse-hair plaster covered the original ceiling beams in the kitchen. Plaster was smeared on just about every wall and on clapboards on a back outside wall.
The Orrell’s took on the job of removing the
plaster and lathe and sanding it down to the wooden surfaces (more dust!). Meanwhile, Marie picked out dark maroon paint for one of the side rooms. Coincidentally, while David was sanding that room, he discovered that the original wall color was almost the same dark maroon. All the fireplace mantles were removed to work on the walls behind them. That chore
Bricks and boards were cleaned and renewed. Above the hearth rests the original hinged metal candle box.
revealed remnants of a fire in the house. Everywhere, original lathe (the wooden strips that traditionally formed the base for plaster in older walls and ceilings) had been installed using different woods and patterns, so the Orrell’s replaced them all with new ones. The kitchen windows with 12 over 12 panes let light flood in on even the cloudiest days.
The couple has filled the rooms with furniture gathered during years of visits to antiques shops. They have a wooden yarn winder (also known as a spinner’s weasel) and when it’s full, the weasel really does go “pop.” The couple found a hinged metal box, about 10 inches long, that opened and revealed their own homemade candles. The box was meant to be hung high
on a wall to foil the sneaky plans of mice who would have munched away the tallow candles that contained animal fat. A dough box in the kitchen stored leftover dough until some of it was brought back out to make bread, biscuits, pie crusts, etc.
The fireplace in the kitchen has a beehiveshaped side oven that never prepared fast food. First the cook would get a roaring fire going in the little oven and put a door over the front opening to keep the flames contained. Later, the ashes were cleaned out and saved to make soap.
Meanwhile, the cook placed the dough on the overheated bricks. You can almost breathe the heavenly aroma of baking bread.
Everywhere one looks in the home there are fascinating items. A large, carved wooden duck decoy and a violin propped on a shelf
add timeless beauty to the sitting room. There are books from the 1800s just waiting to be opened again. Framed samplers stitched by young girls share space with a tall writing desk, an old portrait of a woman, and pottery made by Marie.
There is one more secret in the house, but in this case, we know why it is there. David built a rectangular wooden frame that matches the woodwork on a nearby cupboard door. The new frame was put on the wall over a fireplace, and it looked like it had been there since the house was built. Then he just lifts the frame, and there it is! A very modern TV that someday will be an antique, and people will wonder why someone put it in a hole in the wall.
—Marilyn May
Sirens of the Sound
For millennia, whispers of mystical sea beings have drifted through coastal communities like ours. Along the shores of Long Island Sound—from ancient legends to sailors’ tales—these creatures of the deep have captivated the human imagination. Known today as mermaids or sirens, they are said to be part human, part aquatic, and entirely elusive.
The legend stretches back to 1000 B.C., with origins in ancient Syria, where the goddess Atargatis was said to have transformed into a sea spirit. Over time, these stories crossed continents and oceans, finding new life in works like Homer’s Odyssey, where sirens sang sailors to their doom. In Denmark, the legend inspired Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid, now immortalized in bronze at the harbor in Copenhagen.
But you don’t need to cross the Atlantic to catch a whisper of the merfolk. Here in Milford, our very own Long Island Sound has been the setting for centuries of tales,
sightings, and speculation.
In the 1840s, famed showman P.T. Barnum—who spent time just up the road in Bridgeport—offered a then-astonishing $20,000 reward for indisputable proof of a mermaid. While his infamous Feejee Mermaid turned out to be a hoax, it sparked a frenzy along Connecticut’s coastline.
Fishermen and explorers scanned the Sound’s waters sure they had glimpsed a flash of scales or heard a haunting song carried by the sea breeze.
One of the most compelling accounts came from just across the Housatonic River, at the Stratford Lighthouse. In July 1915, keeper Theodore Judson, a known teetotaler and respected man of the coast, claimed to have seen a “shoal of mermaids” gathering near the rocks at the point. He described them with “yellow hair glistening, and scaly tails flashing,” adding he once even touched one, and claimed to have kept her comb.
Judson’s encounter came during a stormy afternoon, when fog crept up and the lighthouse foghorn echoed across the water. He believed the sound lured the creatures in, just as moths are drawn to a flame. His description was vivid and emotional: “She had lovely gazelle
Did lighthouse keeper Theodore “Theed” Judson really encounter silver spangled siren off the coast of Stratford?
eyes, a fair complexion, and silver-spangled scales from the waist down. I was torn whether to keep her or claim the reward—she was so beautiful.” The mermaid escaped, but not before Judson held onto the mysterious brush, which he reportedly showed visitors for years after.
Here in Milford, we know the sea holds many secrets. Strange ripples at Gulf Beach, glimmers of light at Charles Island, and swirling eddies at Silver Sands… locals have long felt something
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stirring just beneath the surface. Be they river nymphs or saltwater sirens, these beings are said to live for centuries. Some even say they still protect our waters, hiding treasures, stealing trinkets, or stirring storms when angered. So the next time you’re by the shore and something glimmers on a distant rock, or a gust of wind dances across the waves—pause. You might just be catching a glimpse of one of the Sound’s oldest inhabitants.
Keep your eyes on the tide. The sirens of Milford may be watching.
—Susan Carroll Dwyer
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milford’s attic
ECHOES IN INK
All the gems in the Milford Historical Society’s collections do not sparkle.
Ledgers from the 1700s and 1800s are worth a lot to researchers of Milford’s early history, even though some are falling apart when you touch them and most have missing or ripped pages.
There are entries in beautiful cursive script written with quill pens full of ink, and lettering that become thinner before the pen goes back to the ink pot to drink. Sometimes, when the business owner had to add up lines of numbers, calculations were done in the margins because paper was so expensive that almost every part of the pages were filled.
Long after a business had closed and the ledgers were no longer needed to record commercial transactions, the books still had value as scrapbooks! One of the ledgers in hand was owned by Charles Emmett Porter of Milford whose store sold yard goods. His business ledger was used from 1852-1863, but by 1890 most pages were covered with newspaper articles that had been glued on top of past transactions.
Porter’s book also had day-to-businessday entries on sales and weather. He made up a “secret” code to record his profit (although the whole code was written in the book.) For example: in 1852 he wrote “Milford – Feb. 26 – Sales $7.50, Profit a. z o.” Looking at the code on the same page, a. z o translates to “Profit
$1.60.” A March entry included “Profit v. x o,” meaning “Profit $2.80.”
This same ledger had one more interesting find: a yellowed, blue-lined piece of school paper tucked among its pages. On it, written with lead pencil, is a poem that reads as if a young person wrote it:
Baby is sleeping so cozy and fair, / while mother sits near in her old oaken chair.
Her foot on the rocker, the cradle she swings / and though baby slumbers, he still hears what she sings.
Grandma sits knitting close by the fireplace, / with snowy white hair and a smile on her face. / The years have passed by, yet it does not seem long / since she rocked babies to sleep with that very same song.
Another book was the property of Ephraim Strong, born in 1685. He moved to Milford around 1705-1706. He married Mary Buckingham on May 10, 1712. During the 1700s, Strong was a farmer, a justice of the peace, and represented Milford in the General Assembly between 1754-1778.
His ledger is hard to read; despite having good penmanship, Strong wrote sentences about one-quarter inch high or less. It is 188 pages of 16-inch-long paper, filled with scraps of loose notes with the earliest dated 1740.
Marilyn May
Photographer: SJ Cahill
greetings from milford 8/8/8
point-to-point distance of less than 40 miles was enough to warrant a postal check-in way back when. This card collage was mailed August 8, 1908—8/8/8—a strong number known in numerology to symbolize abundance and prosperity. Here’s hoping the receiver understood the significance, tucked away in sleepy Pequabuck. Wait…where? Yes, it’s a real place, a village nestled inside the town of Plymouth in the County of Litchfield. The card serves as a reminder of simpler times, when a short distance could feel like a world away, and a thoughtful gesture could travel just as far.
Ann McGuire
where is it?
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Answer to last issue’s quiz:
The sealife aquatic mural can be found just before entering the walking trails at Eisenhower Park.
