MLAU19

Autumn, 2019 Vol. 16 Issue 3 $5.99

It’s good to know agents who know.

Lydia Lucas

Karla Franzman

Alicia Hale

Marcia Ivers

Mia DiStasi

Dorothy and Elizabeth Schildgen

John Poulsen

Aurelia Michelson

The Talmadge Wall Group

Dave Brewster

Sue McNulty

Diane Pucca

Office Leader

203-877-2704 54 Broad Street • Milford

RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL | RELOCATION | NEW HOMES & LAND | INSURANCE | MORTGAGE © 2013 An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

bhhsNEproperties.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS Feature

34

Home, Sweet Homes

Celebrating Milford’s many architectural styles

By Cindy Papish Gerber

Departments 4 6 8 12 16 18 20 22 28 40 44 48 50 54 56 58 62 64

Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters This Season At your Service Milford Spotlight Around Town Milford Green At Home Milford Morsels Arts and Artisans Education Notebook Historical Perspective Legends and Lore Greetings From Milford Celebrations Crossword Puzzle Expressions Where is It?

About the cover: The iconic waterfall of the lower duckpond in downtown Milford. Photo by Cathy Leite. Her photography may be experienced at www.cathyleitephotography.com

2019 • Milford Living 1

OUR 20TH YEAR PROUDLY SERVING MILFORD!

AUTUMN 2019 VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 3 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill Suzanne@milfordliving.com

Editorial Director Ann McGuire

Art Director Ryan Swanson

Associate Publisher Susan Carroll-Dwyer

Advertising Director ORTHOPEDICS SPORTS INJURIES VESTIBULAR REHAB BACK & NECK PAIN TOTAL JOINT REHAB WORK & AUTO INJURIES PRIVATE TREATMENT ROOMS TEENS TO SENIORS STRETCH PROGRAM ACCEPTING ALL INSURANCE NO MD REFERRAL NEEDED

Joy Haines

-EXPERIENCEDPHYSICAL THERAPISTS

Account Executive

Brian T. Williams, MSPT Kelly Gammage, PT Chris Oliveira, PT Sara Riedel, PT

Bill Canfield, Brian Creevy, Robert Creigh, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Sherry Johnson, Cathy Leite, Maryalice Manning, Gerry McGuire, JJ Richards, Margeaux Settineri

Mary Jo Downs

Contributing Photographers

Contributing Editors

Tracy Farricker, McKenzie Granata

203-882-9384 155 Hill Street Milford, CT www.CenterRehab.com

Contributing Writers

Cheryl Cappiali, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Brian Creevy, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Frank Farricker, Cindy Papish Gerber, Susan Glennon, Judy Goldwyn, Todd Manning, Ann McGuire, Gerry McGuire, Makayla Silva

Production Manager Mario Recupido

Production Assistance

Life insurance from a real-life person.

Kevin Maher, Todd Manning, Tamara Simpson

Web Design Mario Recupido

Interns

What we write gets read.

Carlson Insurance Agcy Inc Wanda Carlson, Agent 415 Boston Post Rd, Suite 9 Milford, CT 06460 www.wandacarlson.com

Get life insurance that comes with someone local (me).

I’m here to help you protect your family’s financial future.

LET’S TALK TODAY.

Anna Downs, Bridget Dwyer, Maryalice Manning

Milford Living Magazine 162 Bridgeport Avenue 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 2003-2019 Red Mat Publishing.www.redmatpublishing.com 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. www.redmatpublishing.com

A distinctive voice in custom publishing State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL 1708148

2 Milford Living • Autumn

Printed in the USA. www.redmatpublishing.com

The most advanced laser cataract surgery.

At Bridgeport Hospital.

At Bridgeport Hospital, expert ophthalmologists use today’s most advanced laser for safer, gentler and more precise cataract surgery. A typical procedure is done in less than one hour. And our specialists offer lens implants that improve your vision – often eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. Expert and compassionate care, with a focus on the best possible outcome for your vision. That’s the promise of today’s Bridgeport Hospital. bridgeporthospital.org

Vicente Diaz, MD

2019 • Milford Living 3

Boccarossa Insurance INSURANCE FOR WHEREVER LIFE TAKES YOU Boccarossa Insurance is a full service agency specializing in Auto, Home, Life Insurance Products, and Commercial Insurance. Boccarossa Insurance employees are all licensed in Property and Casualty Insurance. Excellent and conscientious service, along with competitive premiums have been the strength of our agency.

Potecting Milford Residents For Over 35 Years 220 Bridgeport Ave. Milford, Connecticut 06460 boccars@nationwide.com

www.boccarossainsurance.com

(203) 877-1800

publisher’s letter Dear Friends & Neighbors, Welcome to the autumn issue of Milford Living!

Autumn is truly one of the most picturesque seasons to enjoy Milford. Our once long sunny days at the shore slowly shorten, and our view and focus turn to the radiant golden hour that harkens the cooler twilight evenings. Now is the time where we gather to enjoy the warmth of family and friends and reflect upon a season of Thanksgiving.

In this issue of Milford Living we focus on home, community, service, and history—the people, the places, and the landscape that make Milford the special place we all are blessed to be a part of.

I hope you enjoy this issue and share it with those you love and those that love Milford most.

Gift subscriptions

Give the Gift of Milford that Lasts the Whole Year Through!

to Milford Living make

One year only $17.80!

M i l f o r d L i v i n g

the perfect holiday

To: Milford

Address

is

City

for Living

gift for everyone, and

Winter

subscription card inside

Zipcode

State

Zipcode

Address

Winter, 2018 Vol. 14 Issue 4 $5.99

2018

you’ll find a convenient

State

From:

Milford Living is published 4 times a year. U.S. annual newsstand price $23.80. Checks may be made payable to Milford Living Magazine Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.

City

q Please check here, if you would also like to receive a subscription

A gift card will be sent announcing your gift subscription.

this issue. Give the gift of Milford Living early and your recipient will receive a card with all the details. For faster service, call our office at 203-283-5290, or visit us online at www.milfordliving.com to place your order.

As always, we welcome your comments, stories, and suggestions.

Drop me a line at Suzanne@milfordliving.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

With appreciation and gratitude,

Suzanne 4 Milford Living • Autumn

experience the ETHAN ALLEN dif ferenc e A CO M M I T M E N T TO C R A F T S M A N S H I P, S US TA I N A B I L I T Y, A N D E XC E P T I O N A L S E R V I C E .

GET INSPIRED! MENTION THIS AD FOR A FREE COPY OF OUR INTERIOR DESIGN BOOK, MUSES.

M I L F O R D 1620 BOSTON POST ROAD EXIT 39B OFF I-95 203.878.1795 ©2019 Ethan Allen Global, Inc.

readers’ letters A friend always gives me Milford Living

Magazine after she reads it. Two years ago I was

reading an article about Drive-in movie theaters when I spotted the picture of me, 40 some odd years ago, at the Milford Drive-in Flea Market.

My friend Ray Z is to the left of me.

number. To my surprise and delight he

Thank you Bambi for sharing your

weekly pinochle game. We went to a different

We are so happy we could be a part of

answered the phone. He has since joined our flea market to re-create the original picture.

We haven’t changed a bit!

—Bambi McDonald, Milford, CT

wonderful story and image with us.

you reconnecting with an old friend.

Wishing you a treasure trove of new memories and flea market finds!

COURTESY OF BAMBI MCDONALD

I hadn’t seen him in at least 20 years, but

I took a chance and called his old phone

Drop us a line…

Please send your comments, contributions, suggestions, and questions to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460 or email our publisher at: suzanne@milfordliving.com

Costa

AZZURRA ~ Faustini Family, Since 1972 ~

Fine Waterfront Dining overlooking L.I. Sound Open for Lunch & Dinner Daily!

6

$ .00

- $7.95 Lunch Specials

11:45am-2pm Tues-Fri - Orders to Go!

Let Costa Azzurra host your next special event!!

• Weddings • Banquets • Receptions • Social Functions • Accommodations for 250+

Come Visit our New Bar! 72 Broadway, Milford, CT 06460

(203) 878-6688 www.costaazzurarestaurant.com 6 Milford Living • Autumn

CallUs Us For aa Tour Pre-Book Your Post-Surgery Care Care Call Tourand andto Pre-Book Your Post-Surgery Call Us For For a Tour and toto Pre-Book Your Post-Surgery Care For a Tour and to Pre-Book Your Post-Surgery Care •Call TheUs Premier Short-Term Rehabilitation and • area’s The Area’s Premier Short-term

• The Area’s PremierShort-term Short-term Area’s Premier Joint•• The Replacement Program

by Dr. Amit Lahav Rehabilitation and Short-term Jointled Replacement The Area’s Premier Rehabilitation and Joint Replacement Rehabilitation and Joint Replacement Program Ledspecializing byand Dr.Joint Amit in Lahav Rehabilitation Replacement • Cardiac Program outcome Program Led Lahav Program LedbybyDr.Dr.Amit Amit Lahav driven

by Dr. Amit care• Program led byReputation Dr.Led Clifford Kramer Best for Care Lahav and Best Reputation Care andand ••Best Reputation Care Customer Servicefor infor Reputation for Care andArea • Best• Best In Class Approach toMilford our Pulmonary Program Customer Service in Milford Area Customer Service in Milford Area Service in Milford Area led •byCustomer Dr. Desilva Recognized in “Best Nursing Homes” • Recognized “Best Nursing Homes”

by U.S. Newsin and World Report • Recognized in “Best Nursing Homes” • Recognized “Best Nursing Homes” • Passport + Program

by U.S. Newsinand World Report by U.S. News and World Report by News and World Report • 5 Star Medicare Rating 195 Platt St, Milford CT | 203.878.5958 | MilfordRehab.com 195 Platt St, Milford CT | 203.878.5958 | MilfordRehab.com 195Platt Platt St, St, Milford | MilfordRehab.com 195 MilfordCTCT| 203.878.5958 | 203.878.5958 | MilfordRehab.com

Milford’s

#1Real Estate Office in Listings Sold

For More Than a Decade!* Anneliese Urpin

Barbara Oliver

ChristineJayShaw CherylAllen Middleton Charlene Kathy Anderson Barone

John Messore Marilyn DeRosa

Judi DiFranco Sue DuBrow

Leila Chaucer

Robin Helburn

Mary Licata

Scott Dana

Janet Lengel

Donna Howe

Michael Birarelli

Sharon Presner

Beth Lopez

Sue Scheets

Charlie Cook

Brenda Zandri

Carl DeCarli Jay Barone Gary Burnell Jacopian Ken Burton JanetChapman Lengel Noreen Daniells HeatherLeila Crabtree Sandy Chaucer Peter

Kathy Anderson

Ken Hawkins Lisa English

Leonard Lambert

Gary Jacopian

Sarah Ferrante

Linda Wilson

Paige Jenney

Laura Kelleher

Noreen Daniels

Mike Pastir

Sophia Messore

Sophia Messore Jade Levinson

NE Moves Mortgage Tommie Wehrle Susan Cassidy Tracy Roach

Bonnie Clark

Kelly Durrschmidt Judie DiFranco

Len Nicoletti

Kelly Hill

Barbara Zink

Sue Dubrow

Debi McGinley

Viktorija Pukinska

Lori Melius

Christy Ann Lindsay

Kim Sekelsky Linda Gallick

Cindy Lee Durner Clifton Green

Mary Anthony

Lorna Nichols

Ruth Korpita

Christopher LaBianca Amy LaFrance

Phil Kohan

Sue Scheets

Len Nicoletti

Phyllis Sochrin

Tina DeConne

Lorna Nichols

Jim Porto

Barbara Oliver

Luke Porto

Christine Shaw Phyllis Sochrin Victoria Stillings Donna Tartagni Linda Wilson Colleen Zacarelli

878-7424 Branch(203) Sales Manager

Ken Hawkins

Barbara Zink

• www.coldwellbankerhomes.com •The171 N. Broad Street Porto Group

*Based on SmartMLS data for single family/condo listings closed in Milford 2001-2018

(203)878-7424  www.coldwellbankermoves.com  171 N. Broad Street

this season

The Glory of Bulbs

W

hile traditionally recognized as a time of harvest, autumn is, for many flower gardeners, planting season. The glory of next year’s garden will be determined by the bulbs that go into the ground in early fall. The general rule when it comes to knowing what to plant when is this: if it blooms in the spring, plant it in the fall. Since spring bulbs need to “chill out” before they can bloom, you want to plant about six weeks before you expect the ground to freeze.

Giant alliums, also known as Ornamental Onions, are show-stopping sensations in the garden bed.

Most flower bulbs sold commercially

Today, exotic varieties of bulbs from

originated in the Middle East or southern

around the world are easy to find, but why

Europe, particularly the Mediterranean area.

not consider adding some native species

Many bulbs were first introduced to Europe

bulbs to your garden? When you plant

by soldiers returning from the Crusades. In

native you contribute to maintaining the

some areas, flowers drove regional econo-

balance of our natural ecosystem. As a

mies. When tulip mania swept the Dutch

bonus, every native plant has at least one

people in the 1630s, a single bulb could fetch

specific native insect that is a specialist in

more than 10 times the annual living of a

pollinating it.

skilled worker.

PLANTING SUCCESS

What is commonly called a bulb can be classified as a true bulb, corm, rhizome, or tuber.

• A true bulb is a reduced stem with modified fleshy leaves, which are tightly folded around one or more flower buds (tulip, narcissus, lilies, allium) • A corm is a rounded, vertical, swollen underground stem base covered with scale leaves (crocus, gladiolus, ixia, sparaxis) • A rhizome is a swollen stem lying horizontally at or below ground level (bearded iris, lily of the valley) • A tuber is the swollen end of an underground stem or root with a bud or buds Narcissus, a.k.a. daffodils, welcome the coming spring when planted in the fall.

8 Milford Living • Autumn

(dahlia, day lily, begonia)

Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) White Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum) Red Trillium (rillium erectum) Fern leaf bleeding heart (Dicentra eximi) Dutchman’s breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica)

Milford Yacht Club Jack in the Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum)

Spring beauty (Claytonia virginica)

Trout lily (Erythronium americanum)

“Not your grandfather’s Bloodrootclub” (Sanguinaria canadensis) Camas(Camassia leichtlinii)

where friendship and memories ilford are made achT

The M

Y

“The waTer awaiTs”

club

Whether you’re a boater, a swimmer, or just looking for the next best spot on the water, the Milford Yacht Club is the new place for you. Membership benefits include:

• Uninterrupted vistas of vibrant Milford Harbor and serene Long Island Sound • Use of our marina located right at the mouth of the harbor • Our pool pavilion with Olympic-sized and kiddie pools, lounge chairs, snack bar, and views of the marina • Three seasons of waterfront dining, socializing, and relaxing • Sailing programs for adults and children, and children’s swimming programs • Memories for a lifetime with the MYC family

131 Trumbull Avenue

203-783-0060

www.milfordyachtclub.com

With MYC open most of the year, it’s always a good time to join! Inquire today! office@milfordyachtclub.com (203) 783-0060.

131 Trumbull Avenue 203-783-0060

www.milfordyachtclub.com 2019 • Milford Living 9

this season Whatever the type of bulb, use the “three

can consume an entire bed. Planting in cages

times” rule when planting them in beds: plant

with 1/2 inch opening mesh hardware cloth

at a depth three times the height of the bulb and

can help deter the squirrels and voles. Laying

space them three times their width apart.

hardware cloth on the top of the entire bed

The foliage of many spring blooming bulbs

at ground level and securing with heavy

dies back without a trace in summer and the risk of digging in that spot in the fall when look-

weights on the corners can also prevent One of the first signs of spring are colorful crocus.

ing for a place to plant more bulbs is consider-

digging dogs from ruining your chances of having a colorful spring. Foraging animals

able. One tip is to mark the location of each bulb

Agriculture Experiment Station (CAES) in New

tend to stay away from bulbs planted near

by planting a grape hyacinth bulb nearly on

Haven and the UConn Soil Lab in Storrs test

the house, but hungry deer may be enticed to

top of the larger bulb. The grape hyacinth sends

soil. If the results show that phosphorus is low,

eat your tulips anyway!

up leaves in the fall, clearly indicating where

bone meal is a great addition if you intend to let

you’ve already planted.

bulbs naturalize in an area. To improve poor soil,

and stems mature and fade to yellow before

add compost, well-decomposed horse or cow

removing them—at least six weeks—to

manure, or leaf mold.

allow the bulb to store enough food for next

Most bulbs thrive in a humus-rich, sandy loam soil with excellent drainage and a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.3. Have your soil tested to see if any amendments are needed. Both the CT

Burrowing rodents are a bulb garden’s most troublesome pests and in winter they

As the flowers bloom, wait until the foliage

season’s spectacular show.

—Cheryl Cappiali

For All Your Pet Needs, Supplies and Live Feeders PUPS • KITTENS BIRDS & FISH SMALL ANIMALS We Strive For Greatness & Customer Satisfaction We Carry A Full Line Of NutriSource Products

185 Boston Post Road | Orange, CT ~ In The Hitchcock Plaza ~ Phone: 203-553-9997 Fax: 203-553-9655 atozpetsct.com - atozpetshop@aol.com 10 Milford Living • Autumn

Jana L’Etoile, Jim Betzig, Dana McLaughlin, Matt Gallagher, Lise Robinson

A Fresh Thinking, Forward Looking Approach to Managing Wealth We provide independent, objective financial advice in an open and transparent environment, where your best interest always come first. We value the long-standing relationships we’ve built, and look forward to serving your financial needs and helping you achieve your goals and objectives now and in the years to come.

612 Wheelers Farms Rd, Milford, CT | 203.693.8525 www.TrinityPointWealth.com

at your service

Thank Every Vet!

V

eterans Day is just around the corner and that means its time to celebrate those who have served. On November 9th from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., a celebration in honor of veterans will be held in the downtown Milford area. The Thank Every

all-day Veterans Day event.

There are over 2,000 veterans in the city of Milford who served in their country

Vet Festival is the new name for Milford’s annual Veterans Day celebration. Not only is

both here at home and in places including

there a parade, but also a host of family friendly activities that will be fun for everyone.

Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations. Veterans organizations within

With the change in name comes a new

Milford, including VFW Post 7788, American

feature an array of activities including face

Legion Post 196, The Milford Elks, Combat

Field, continue to West Main Street, West

painting, music, food trucks, and more. This

Veterans Motorcycle Association Chapter

River, North Street, and end where it began

“Thank Every Vet Festival” is Milford’s first

31-2, and the Disabled American Veterans

ROBERT CREIGH (4)

at Wasson Field. At parade’s end will

parade route that will step off at Wasson

The annual parade honoring Milford veterans is now part of the Thanks Every Vet Festival.

12 Milford Living • Autumn

of Milford will all be participating in the Thank Every Vet Festival.

Milford has a long history of honoring those who have served, dating back to the heroes who helped secure American independence. The Liberty Rock monument in Devon was dedicated to the “Liberty Boys,” later called Minute Men, who used the site as a lookout post. Since then, generations of Milford men and women have served during ROBERT CREIGH

times of war and peace.

On Armistice Day, November 11th, Milford holds a wreath laying ceremony at each of the memorial monuments on the Milford Green to honor those who paid the

The next generation of cadets training to serve our country.

The Law Firm of

Minnella, Tramuta & Edwards, LLC A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM • JOSEPH TRAMUTA, ESQ. RESIDENT PARTNER

Experienced Trial Attorneys in All State and Federal Courts • Personal Injury • Auto Accidents • Criminal Law • DUI • Immigration

• Divorce & Custody • Workers’ Compensation • Real Estate Closings • Medical Malpractice • Business & Corporate Law

• Wills & Estates • Civil Litigation • Probate • Elder Law • Slip & Falls

Wrongfully accused? In an accident? Buying/selling a house? Need a will?

We’ve Got Your Back!

Joseph Tramuta, Esq. JTramuta@mtelawfirm.com

VISIT US AT OUR NEW LOCATION 9 Lafayette Street, Milford, CT 06460

Multilingual speaking office, Spanish and Albanian

Call now for a FREE CONSULTATION

203-647-7872 or 203-573-1411 WWW.MTELAWFIRM.COM

2019 • Milford Living 13

at your service beginning of the Milford Green. Next

ceremony occurs on the 11th hour of

is the Veterans Memorial Flagpole,

the 11th day of the 11th month, which

the tallest flagpole in the state, with

marked the end of the first World

tributes inscribed on its concrete base.

War. Local dignitaries, veterans, the

The fourth stop is at the Soldiers and

American Legion, and members of

Sailors Monument which was erected

area Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts troops

in honor of those men who fought

will participate in the ceremony. Each

during the Civil War. The fifth and

of the monuments list those who

final stop is at the Vietnam and Korean

have died while on active duty. The

War Monument, which was dedicated

ROBERT CREIGH

ultimate sacrifice. The wreath laying

ceremony begins at City Hall and then moves to the “Doughboy” monument, dedicated to those who served in the First World War. The second stop is

The Milford Fife & Drum Corps are always a favorite at

at the World War II Monument at the

Milford parades.

on Veterans Day 1986.

Join your Milford community as we Thank Every Vet who has sacrificed so much in the name of American freedom.

—Todd Manning

Compassionate Senior Care in Your Community • In Home Care • Assisted Living Referrals • Transportation Services Services can include: assistance with showers, personal care, meal preparation, medication reminders, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, and housekeeping.

Call Today! (203) 877-1377 www.ABCFairfieldCounty.com Locations independently owned and operated throughout the United States.

14 Milford Living • Autumn

License # HCA.0000831

Ben Blake

Ben Blake mayor mayor

karen Fortunati karen Fortunati city clerk city clerk

Paid for by the MDTC.

Paid for by the MDTC.

Blake&&Fortunati Fortunati team Blake team af Row A Row A

aftteerr yyeeaar.r.. .

^ ^ CUTTING TAXES YEAR AFTER YEAR CUTTING TAXES YEAR AFTER YEAR

2019 • Milford Living 15

milford spotlight

Making Music in Milford

W

hile there are a variety of venues in town COURTESY OF MAC

to hear music, why not make it yourself?

Opportunities for locals to sing and play

their instrument of choice continue to evolve and grow.

Milfordites and visitors alike have seized upon the chance to make music here in Milford.

The Milford Arts Council (MAC) has been

The piano on the Milford Green has become a place to meet new friends and make music. director Paige Miglio. “He stopped in and

concerts on streets, sidewalks, and parks across

hosting open mike nights for a few years.

asked what the place was. We chatted, him

the city.” The success of this event ensures it

Beginning as a series several summers ago,

asking various questions about what we do,

becoming an annual tradition here in town.

its popularity, packed houses, and long list of

different upcoming events promoted by flyers

performers prompted the MAC to schedule a

in our lobby...especially Open Mic. He spent

this past summer—an initiative spearheaded

winter series as well. The events continue to

the rest of the afternoon on our patio playing

by the MAC—has been wildly successful. Gina

flourish with bigger audiences and more and

his guitar.” It wasn’t the last Miglio would

Bonfietti, a local piano technician, was integral

more musicians and singers.

see of the man. “The next Wednesday, he was

in getting the piano in place. “I wanted a piano

back on the patio, playing guitar and singing

to be available to anyone at any time. An

as we walked up to the front door. He was

outdoor piano can inspire others and provide

“Last spring, the MAC was visited by a man

COURTESY OF CITY OF MILFORD COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

we knew as Craig,” recounts MAC executive

Make Music Day had musicians performing all across Milford.

16 Milford Living • Autumn

The addition of a piano on the Milford Green

excited and practicing for Open

spontaneous joy,” says Bonfietti. “There is

Mic, which was that night.”

something special about seeing and playing

There are several restaurants and bars in town that also offer open mic nights, expanding the

an instrument that is usually indoors and is now under the sun and stars.”

The piano—and its many players—were

opportunities for those of us who

a huge hit with residents of all ages. Many

usually only sing in our cars to test

Milfordites and tourists alike lined up to

our pipes on a live audience.

play and listen to the waterproof Wurlitzer,

New this year was the Make

a delightful addition to downtown which

Music Milford event which Milford

will hopefully return next summer. Novices

Community Development director

playing chopsticks or impresarios playing

Julie Nash describes as, “a live, free

Bach make the Green sing its own song.

musical celebration on June 21—the

longest day of the year—with

For those needing a little percussion in their lives, summer drum circles are held

28 from 1:00 – 6:00 p.m., musicians of all calibers

always draws a crowd. The B.Y.O.D. (bring

signed up to play on one of dozens of porches

your own drum) nature of the event welcomes

around town. The concept began more than

all comers. As Mark Zarillo, who hosts drum

10 years ago in upstate New York as a way for

circles throughout the area explains, “We’re

neighbors to connect. Milfordites volunteered to

creating a safe space for people to come

host on their porches, and a map was available

together and just be whoever and whatever

for people to follow the performances. “With the

they want to be for a while.”

success of Make Music Day, it made sense to add

COURTESY OF MAC

once a month on Sundays at Gulf Beach and

Locals look forward to the drum circles.

Bohemian High owners Rich and Gloria Krouch have attended many. “We love it and the

PorchFest to the lineup,” says Julie Nash, Milford Community Development director. “We want to make Milford the most vibrant we can to

grandkids love it. Lots of dancing around in the

Open Mic night offers performers the perfect

continue to attract more business, visitors, and

center of the circle,” says Rich. For two hours

opportunities to make music here in Milford.

residents to our city.”

prior to sunset the attendees drum down the sun. Crowd size varies but each circle is unique.

“It depends on who shows up, belly dancers, sword balancing, capoeira exhibitions, you

No matter the venue—even singing in never know who will be there,” says Gloria.

Another new addition to Milford’s music

your car—take some time to make music in Milford!

events this year was Porchfest. Held September

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

203.301.4006 158 Bridgeport Ave

Next to Bohemian High Handmade Jewelry by local and global artisans Clothing & Accessories made in the USA, India, Nepal, Thailand, and more Large Variety of Unique Gifts that appeal to both new age and vintage inspired shoppers….

Smoking Accessories & Full Range of CBD Products Oils, Topicals, Edibles and Much more Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum and Isolates ~ Education Provided ~

• Art Exhibits • Medical Marijuana Counseling & Seminars • Workshops and Events • CBD Infused Coffee & Tea • 14’x31’ Event Space Rental (Includes Chairs, Tables & More)

ASK ABOUT MEDICAL MARIJUANA CERTIFICATIONS

156 Bridgeport Ave, Milford ~ 203.301.4097 ~ BohemianHigh.com 2019 • Milford Living 17

around town

MARYALICE MANNING

Reclaiming Beaver Brook

T

he spectacular 2012 fire that consumed acres of property at Beaver Brook Nature Preserve devastated more than just trees and bushes. The property on West Avenue was officially classified as “vacant,” but according to Steve Johnson, Milford’s Open Space and Natural Resources agent, the land offered shelter to “more life than most developed property.” The forest and marshes provided home, nourishment, and safety to dragonflies, butterflies, frogs, birds, and countless other varieties of wildlife. The wooden boardwalk that spanned the marsh wetlands provided access to visitors who came to enjoy the abundance of natural life thriving there.

The recently rebuilt walkway at Beaver Brook Nature Preserve welcomes walkers once again. access compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The mayor praised Johnson’s efforts in leading the renewal efforts. “Steve Johnson has done a fantastic job,” Blake says. “He is thoughtful and knowledgeable and he puts

the boardwalk, the company was contracted

his heart and soul into everything he does for

supported plans to rebuild the destroyed

to enhance the lower trail area and mow the

the city.” Johnson came to Connecticut from

bridge and increase the opportunity for

invasive phragmite common reed in order to

Michigan and Indiana where he spent most of

citizens of Milford to enjoy the peace and

provide a temporary protective buffer. Mayor

his childhood. As a child, Johnson developed

quiet the area afforded. “When you’re on the

Blake explained the

Beaver Brook trail, you feel like you’re in the

need for eliminating the

deep woods of Maine,” says Mayor Blake.

phragmites and other

Steve Johnson led the way to reclaiming

invasive weeds. “We aren’t

Beaver Brook, writing a grant for $500,000 from

sure how the fire started,”

the Small Town Economic Assistance Program.

he says, “but we know that

Another $45,000 came from the Community

their presence contributed

Development Block Grant program. When

to its spread.”

contractors bid on the project, it became clear

MARYALICE MANNING

Mayor Ben Blake enthusiastically

Phase 3, scheduled for

that the job would have to be divided into three

the this fall, will improve

phases. During this summer’s record-breaking,

the parking lot and

Millenium Builders (the company that dredged

provide a paved walkway

the pond on North Street) began work on Phase

to the lower loop trail.

A walk along the boardwalk enables you to experience the fullness

1. In Phase 2 of the project, along with building

This will make parking lot

of the Nature Preserve.

18 Milford Living • Autumn

an interest in nature and conservation but he

and explaining its place

didn’t expect it to become his career. While

in the environment.

The mutual goal of

MARYALICE MANNING

he was a marketing major at the University of Connecticut, Johnson volunteered in the

Steve Johnson, Mayor

early days of the local Environmental Concerns

Blake, and other city

Coalition and for several conservation projects

residents and officials is

and groups. His interest and curiosity about

to present Milford with

our ecosystem ultimately turned into a passion,

another venue where

The long walkway is an easy stroll through woodlands and protected

inspiring him to change his career path. “He’s a

city pride is justified. The

marsh areas.

Renaissance man,” Blake says.

new boardwalk measures

Now, as he walks the muddy, uneven paths

1,134 feet in length—slightly longer than the

Johnson continues to seek funding to

that will be replaced by visitor-friendly stone

original—and features a bump-out where

help future restoration efforts in the Milford

dust, Johnson identifies each plant, explaining

people can stand and enjoy their surroundings.

conservation area. Until that time, the

its purpose in the area’s ecosystem, and points

It’s also slightly wider than the original,

boardwalk stands ready for visitors.

out flying and crawling wildlife, naming each

making it accessible to wheelchairs.

—Judy Goldwyn

FREE FREE

PRIVATE HIMALAYAN SALT INFRARED DETOX SESSION W/ THE PURCHASE OF A GIFT PRIVATE HIMALAYA N SALT INFRARED CERTIFICATE

FREE

DETOX SESSIO N W / T H E P U R C H A S E O F A G IFT Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not valid with any other promo.

PRIVATE HIMALAYAN SALT INFRARED DETOX Expires S E S S I O N WC / TE H ER PTUIRF C01/10/20 HI A CS EAOTF EA G I F T

We integrate our Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not valid with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20 knowledge of the latest FREE We integrate our We integrate our knowledgein of the latest advancements TEEN FACIAL $25 knowledge of skin/body the advancements latest in (REGULAR: $35) care while We integrate our skin/body care while of the latest advancementscombining in knowledge both holistic & T E E $25 N FACIAL combining both holistic & advancements in ( R E G ULAR: $35) modern modalities to to skin/body care while modern modalities skin/body care while Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not valid with any other promo. achieve the best results for Expires 01/10/20 $30 achieve the both best results for combining holistic & combining both holistic & BEAUTY THERAPY DIY WORKSHOP modern modalities to our clients. our clients.

(REGULAR: $35) CERTIFICATE

Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not valid with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20

$25

PRIVATE HIMALAYAN SALT INFRARED DETOX SESSION W/ THE PURCHASE OF A GIFT CERTIFICATE

$25

Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not valid with any other promo.

T E E NExpires F A C I01/10/20 AL Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not (RE G U L A R : $ 3valid 5 ) with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20 Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not valid with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20

TEEN FACIAL (REGULAR: $35)

$30

Limit 1 coupon per customer.Not valid with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20

BEAUTY THERAPY DIY WORKSHOP (REGULAR: $35)

$30 achieve the best results for modern modalitiesBOOK to YOUR APPOINTMENT our clients.

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! achieve the best results for TODAY! BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT B E A U T Y $40 T H E R A OFF PY DIY WORKSHOP TODAY! 203-874-7546 our clients. 203-874-7546 (REGULAR: $35) 1050 Bridgeport Ave B-1 $40 OFF $40 OFF 203-874-7546 Milford, CT 06460 Limit 1 coupon per customer. Not valid with any other promo.

Limit 1 coupon per customer.

Not valid with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20 B E A U T Y T H EExpires R A P Y 01/10/20 DIY WORKSHOP

$30 (REGULAR: $35)

Limit 1 coupon per customer. Not valid with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20

NON-INVASIVE BODY SLIMMING PACKAGE

Limit 1 coupon per customer.

Not NON-INV A S Ivalid V E with any other promo.

1050 Bridgeport Ave B-1 1050 Bridgeport Ave B-1 B O D Y SExpires L I M M I N01/10/20 G PACKAGE Limit 1 coupon per customer. Not valid with any other promo.

Milford, CT 06460 Milford,www.carsonaesthetics.com CT 06460 BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT Expires 01/10/20 www.carsonaesthetics.com www.carsonaesthetics.com TODAY! Limit 1 coupon per customer. Not valid with any other promo.

NON-INVASIVE Expires 01/10/20

BODY SLIMMING PACKAGE

Limit 1 coupon per customer. Not valid with any other promo.

Expires 01/10/20

2019 • Milford Living 19

milford green

Recycle Smart

T

he Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that in the United States, over 262 million tons of municipal solid waste is produced each year. That is an average of almost 4.5 pounds of waste per person per day. The biggest percentage of waste is paper and cardboard, followed by metal, glass, plastic, and wood. Approximately 23 million tons is yard trimmings and food waste. Out of all of that, a little over 90 million tons is recycled.

Winter Brothers Waste Systems, in Shelton.

RecycleCT Foundation, Inc, a Connecticut-based nonprofit, was “created to help bring Connecticut from an estimated 35% to a 60% diversion of solid waste disposal by 2024.” The nonprofit has a comprehensive website (www.recyclect.com) that describes what can and cannot be included in the bin. They stress that the items must be “empty, rinsed, clean, and open,” and that residents should not “shred, box, bag, or bundle”

The non-recycled waste is handled in a few different ways: the EPA says 13% of total waste generated is burned to generate energy and 53% makes its way to landfills. Environmental concerns about these measures are abundant, however. Increased greenhouse gas emissions, leaching of toxic chemicals, unpleasant odors and more make burning and landfills environmentally unfriendly and electronics, appliances, clothing, and many other household items add to the detrimental conditions. Recycling can help mitigate many of these issues.

Milford has long embraced recycling. The city’s official program began in 1991, when residents were

COURTESY OF CITY OF MILFORD

potentially dangerous. Batteries, tires,

The new Curbside Clothing Recycling initiative will help keep soft goods like clothing out of landfills.

provided the original “blue bins” and were notified of the statute on recycling,

recyclables are placed together in the same

their recyclables. The website has written and

which reads “…each person who generates

container and sorted at a processing facility,

video educational materials and includes a

solid waste from residential property within

rather than by the consumer. The city can sell

“Recycle Wizard” that allows visitors to enter an

Milford shall separate from other solid waste

these materials and earns about $20 per ton.

item to see if it can be recycled.

all items required to be recycled…” At that time,

When the large green bins were rolled out

This past July, a brand-new type of

recyclables were to be separated and organized

to replace the smaller blue bins, they included

supplemental recycling program was rolled

by category. For example, glass with glass,

a sticker to indicate what was recyclable and

out in Milford which allows residents to recycle

plastic with plastic, newspapers all together, etc.

should be included in the bin. It’s important to

“soft” goods like textiles. Called “Curbside

only include what is actually on the list since the

Clothing Recycling,” the program is run by the

stream recycling, which began in the city in

Over time, the program morphed into single

city can be fined if too many unrecyclable items

independent company Simple Recycling. They

2013. Single stream is a program in which all

are in the loads brought to the sorting facility,

note that “the average person throws away 68

20 Milford Living • Autumn

pounds of clothing each year,” and that a

local thrift outlets, mid-grade is

huge percentage of clothing is not donated

exported to international markets

or recycled. When thrown away in the

and ‘unusable’ items are processed for

municipal waste stream, the clothing

raw materials.”

ends up being combusted or placed in a

The benefits of recycling are

landfill, both of which can have negative

multifold. Less material being

environmental impacts.

placed in landfills and burned

Curbside Clothing Recycling is a free

means a reduction in cost for the

service to the City of Milford and its

city; selling the recyclable items can

residents. Households are provided with

bring Milford some revenue, and of

pink bags which can be filled with textiles

course, the environmental stress is

(clothing, towels, sheets, etc.) and placed

reduced, leading to less pollution and

by the curb on the usual recycling day.

greenhouse gas emissions. Participating

Simple Recycling picks up the bag and

in the program can help our Small City

leaves a new one. The textiles collected

with a Big Heart remain a great place for

are sorted. According to the company,

all of us to live!

the highest quality items are “sold to

—Shaileen Kelly Landsberg

2019 • Milford Living 21

COURTESY OF BOHEMIAN HIGH

at home

Do it Yourself

E

very month, more than 200 million people open their phones and start scrolling through Pinterest and other online pin boards. While some are searching for fashion ideas, a new recipe, or home design tips, many are on the virtual hunt for another kind of inspiration: crafts.

DIYers spend an evening at Bohemian High for a paint and sip social, where friends find joy creating art together. the joy of creating something and connecting

The crafting industry is worth more than $40 billion and continues to climb. As

Bohemian High, after it opened in April 2017.

“We believe that people are looking for a

with people.”

Tania Lopez of Milford has taken two

result, businesses across the country are

better constructive and creative ways to spend

painting classes at Bohemian High. “The

clamoring to secure a piece of that pie, one

their non-working hours,” Richard Krouch

instructor is a very talented artist that gives

painted pallet sign at a time. Their goal is to

says. His wife Gloria picks up the conversation:

you plenty of helpful instruction, but also

gather those DIYers together in studios and

“When we sit down to do any type of artistic

lets you put your own artistic vision in your

storefronts and provide them with the tools,

project it allows us to slow down a beat. We are

painting if you want. And taking a little break

space, and social setting they need to bring

allowing ourselves to focus on something other

to shop in the store is super fun,” she says.

their ideas to fruition.

than our everyday pressures and deadlines,”

From dream catcher weaving to wooden sign

Offering these DIY workshops at a reasonable

she says. “We can paint or work with our hands

cost, Bohemian High lends itself as a hub

making, Milford offers a host of DIY classes to

while still connecting with another person in

for inspiration, conversation, and a place to

get people out of the house, off the screen, and

a manner that is more present. For a couple of

escape the pressures of everyday life. Classes

in a room together with other creative-minded

hours there is no focus on anything other than

are intimate, materials are provided, and

people.

BOHEMIAN HIGH

instructors bring plenty of experience. Visit the shop’s website for an event schedule.

156 Bridgeport Road, Milford www.bohemianhigh.com

FIREHOUSE GALLERY FIGURE DRAWING

Husband and wife team Gloria and Richard

81 Naugatuck Avenue, Milford www.milfordarts.org/mac-thefirehouse-gallery

Krouch began hosting workshops from painting to belly dancing, dream catcher weaving, and Pysanky egg decorating

Providing audiences, students, and artists

to draw people into their eclectic shop,

with opportunities and experiences in the

22 Milford Living • Autumn

arts that enlighten and enrich, the Milford Arts Council (MAC) is on a mission to make the city a thriving destination community for In collaboration with the Coastal Arts Guild of Connecticut, the Firehouse Gallery is bringing people together to study one of art’s greatest icons: the human being.

“This course offers explorations into

COURTESY OF MAC

arts and culture.

Students unleash their inner Picasso at one of MAC’s drop-in art sessions at the Firehouse Gallery.

drawing foundations in an expectation-free environment. The goal is for students to

the human figure presents many technical

new skills and make new connections while

integrate art into their lives in a meaningful

problems—form, structure, foreshortening,

doing something creative.

way, expanding process into practice,” says

and so on—this class offers wonderful training

Paige Miglio, MAC executive director.

and allows the artist to display their skill.

The cornerstone of artistic training for

“Last Spring, when this class was announced, I was excited to have an

Held on the second and fourth Wednesday

opportunity to experience a bit of the visual

centuries, figure drawing is popular with

of the month, these figure drawing sessions

arts world,” says MAC marketing director

amateur artists as well as professionals. Since

provide artists with the opportunity to build

Lorie Lewis. “I learned a lot about shading,

Dreaming of a shoreline home?

Let my expertise and love of the coastline help you.

The beach is calling and so should you!

Call today for a free confidential strategic market analysis of your home!

Dawn Sullivan REALTOR®

203-257-6289 Dawn.Sullivan@CBMoves.com RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

236 Boston Post Rd., Orange - www.dawnsullivan.cbintouch.com

Selling the shoreline one dream at a time EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

2019 • Milford Living 23

at home perspective, and other basics of drawing. I wasn’t very good, but I am definitely going to take Foundations II in the fall. For me, it’s all about expression and having as many creative outlets in my life as possible.”

COURTESY OF PAINTED PLANK

THE PAINTED PLANK STUDIO 554 Boston Post Road, Milford www.thepaintedplankstudio.com The Painted Plank Studio is a DIY creative space where you can spend an evening constructing

Friends enjoy a night filled with music, conversation, and creativity at The Painted Plank.

and painting your own wooden sign.

“Fun music is playing, good conversations

“The relaxed carefree environment provides

Before arriving, visit thepaintedplankstudio.

are happening, and people can use the

a foundation for fun and creativity. There is

com website where you can pre-register for

experience as a way to spend time and catch

no pressure and we like to think we make the

a specific class and date or schedule your

up with their friends,” says owner Luci Brown.

process as easy and enjoyable as possible.”

own special event. During the registration

24 Milford Living • Autumn

process you’ll select a project from the studio’s

Brown. “I do not think many people realize

guests through the steps of distressing and

extensive gallery; customize your selection

how creative they are or can be…

painting a beautiful customized board for

with a name, date, initials, or monogram. When

how much reward they can receive

your home while you enjoy the freedom of

you show up at the studio on your registered

by doing something creative that

bringing snacks, sweets, and cocktails from

date and time, all the project materials of your

displays their artistic side. Our process

home,” she says.

choice will be waiting for you.

takes the fear out of the equation.

Open studio classes take about 3.5 hours.

It removes the stress, constraints,

Projects are guided by instructors to assist

and difficulties associated with

you in transforming your bare wood to a

creating something from scratch.”

painted design.

For Missy Dubin of Milford,

TERI ANNA’S CERAMIC STUDIO 554 Boston Post Road, Milford www.teri-annas-ceramic-studio. com/home

“People like personalized pieces in their

The Painted Plank is the

home and to have the opportunity to make

perfect place for a night

something themselves appeals to many people,”

filled with creativity

paint-your-own pottery studio

says Brown. The studio offers an outlet for

and laughter. “Milford

offering both open studio

creativity—even for the most novice artist. “Art

is lucky enough to have

hours and classes in ceramic

is hard...what I found is that there are very few

Lucy and her wonderful staff

creative outlets for the average person,” says

at The Painted Plank walk

painted

Teri Anna’s Ceramic Studio is a

arts. Taught by award-winning ceramics arts teachers with more

PERSONALIZED DIY WORKSHOP WOOD SIGN DÉCOR

Girls Night Out Date Night Team Building Fundraisers Birthday Parties (Youth or Adult)

Easy and no-fail, no experience necessary. Open Studio or Private Workshops offered, our 3.5 hour workshop sessions are offered multiple days and evenings during the week. Over 300 designs to choose from and custom design available. Snacks and BYOB welcomed (and encouraged).

554 BOSTON POST ROAD, MILFORD | THEPAINTEDPLANKSTUDIO.COM | 203.464.0031 2019 • Milford Living 25

at home than 50 years of experience, Teri Anna’s studio is open to all ages.

Drop in for open studio hours on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays between 12:30 - 5:30 p.m. and spend the afternoon creating. Choose from over 1,500 pieces starting at $4 and nourish your

COURTESY OF TERI ANNA’S CERAMIC STUDIO

creative side making beautiful personalized treasures.

The studio also offers weekly classes for those interested in learning more about the ceramic arts. All levels are welcome, from novice to professional. Classes include the use of acrylic stains and specialty glazes, working with greenware, and hand building with clay.

—Makayla Silva

Your trusted partner for intelligent property development

At Lockwood & MeAd our coMMitMent is to

provide the finest reAL estAte services AvAiLAbLe Real estate these days is much more than buying and selling a home. There is so much more you may need to know, and we would like to help.

Lockwood will answer any real estate question at all, absolutely free. Ask our experts about short sales, zoning questions, investments and anything else. We will share our expertise with you.

Together we can succeed, because knowledge is power in a competitive market.

Call (203) 930-2880, or send a question to info@lockwoodandmead.com

serving connecticut And new York cLients for 20 YeArs

(203) 554-6140 26 Milford Living • Autumn

www.LockwoodAndMeAd.coM

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 55 YEARS

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM!

NEW CARPET AND HARDWOOD SELECTIONS NOW IN!

Carpet • Tile • Linoleum • Hardwood • Laminates WOOD VINYL PLANKS (LOOKS REAL!) ON DISPLAY *Lifetime Waterproof Warranty

WE BEAT OTHER PRICES!

NEXT DAY DELIVERY ON IN STOCK ONLY

Cleaning & Repairs on Area Rugs COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL Next Day Delivery!

Call today for a FREE ESTIMATE 495 New Haven Ave - Milford, Ct 06460

203-877-3040

HIGH QUALITY - LOW PRICES!

Fax: 203-878-7282

Fully insured member of The Milford Chamber of Commerce

www.joescarpetmilford.com Hours M-F 9-6 SAT 10-5

Sue Jaser Owner

milford morsels BONFIRE GRILLE 186 Hillside Avenue 203-693-2777 www.milfordbonfiregrill.com Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner FISH & CHIPS Since all but one of the New England states sits on the coast (I’m talking to you Vermont), fish and chips has long been a staple dish in the region. Bonfire Grille’s delectable version will make any seafood lover’s mouth water. Tender, light, flaky, fresh Atlantic cod is encased in a SHAILEEN KELLY LANDSBERG(2)

crispy beer-batter coating and cooked to

Yankee Fare

A

s the days get cooler and the leaves start to change, traditional New England meals return to our plates. This fare—hearty and filling—is comfort food, and our local restaurants embrace the opportunity to offer their guests these dishes that speak to the region’s Yankee roots.

BIN 100 RESTAURANT 100 Landsdale Avenue 203-882-1400 www.bin100.com Open 7 days a week for dinner

in a scoop bowl, is brought to the table. A chowder fit to make a meal, its blend of flavors of the sea and sweetness, along with varied texture, make each bite interesting and delicious. With the crunchy sweetness of the corn, hearty chunks of potato, silky

SEAFOOD CORN CHOWDER

scallops, calamari, and chunks of succulent

WITH PICKED LOBSTER

lobster meat in a thick, creamy broth,

A mouth-watering aroma greets the diner

this New-England inspired dish is sure to

as this special dish, presented attractively

delight. $12.00

28 Milford Living • Autumn

perfection. The tangy house-made tartar sauce accentuates the flavor of the cod, and freshly prepared coleslaw—a balanced blend of cabbage, carrots, and mayo— complements the dish. Served with strips of sliced fried potatoes. $18.00

GUSTO TRATTORIA 225 Boston Post Road 203-876-7464 www.gustotrattoria.com Open Mon-Fri for lunch and dinner, Sat-Sun for dinner

STONEBRIDGE RESTAURANT

BRAISED SHORT RIBS

FRESH-SHUCKED LOBSTER ROLL

OVER MASHED POTATOES

A heaping mound of succulent lobster—

Mouthwatering, fork-tender short

claws and hunks of tail meat—fills a

ribs in a delectable sauce are served

toasted split-top roll in this hyper-local

over smooth mashed potatoes in this

New England dish, created right here in

delicious dish. Each bite is packed

Milford in the 1920s. Every hot, buttery bite

with flavor, showcasing the quality

of Stonebridge’s lobster roll showcases the

which takes a full 72-hours to make, accentuates the robust flavors of the short ribs and gives flair to the backdrop of mashed potatoes. $29.00

SHAILEEN KELLY LANDSBERG (2)

of the slow-cooked meat. The sauce,

50 Daniel Street 203-874-7947 www.stonebridgerestaurant.com Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner

delicious flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tender chunks of succulent lobster meat.

Once just a summer dish, Stonebridge has made this popular meal available yearround. Market price.

Accepting Holiday Reservations Now

If you’re looking to spend Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve,or to book your 2019 Holiday Event, Stonebridge provides a perfect setting.

We can accommodate large groups for every holiday.

Early Bird Prix Fix Dinner $17 2019 • Milford Living 29

milford morsels COSTA-AZZURRA RESTAURANT 72 Broadway 203-878-6688 www.costaazzurrarestaurant.com Open Tues-Sun for lunch and dinner LOBSTER BISQUE One of New England’s favorite foods is used to create the stock for this delicious soup. Silky-smooth and creamy, with a generous quantity of lobster meat, Costa-Azzurra’s lobster bisque is a savory dish redolent of the sea. Served piping hot with traditional oyster crackers, this bisque is a great way to start a meal at the seaside restaurant. Cup/$4.50, bowl/$5.75, to-go quart/$12.95.

s ’ n C i a a t tch p a C seafood restaurant Fried Seafood

Burgers & Dogs

Try Our Famous Lobster Bisque!

Great Burgers and Dogs Too! Fall Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 11am-8pm Friday & Saturday: 11am-9pm Sunday: 12pm - 8pm

Sandwiches & Salads

OPEN YEAR ROUND! Gift Certificates Available!

Fresh Grilled Seafood options available

LOBSTER ROLLS Hot or Cold

$15.99

3/4lb portion served with fries Fish Bites - Chicken Tenders - Clam Strips Bay Scallops - Butterfly Shrimp

LUNCH SPECIALS

1366 New Haven Ave. Milford 203-876-7707 www.CaptainsCatchMilford.com Like us on Facebook!

$5.95

30 Milford Living • Autumn

11-4 Tuesday-Saturday

CAPTAIN’S CATCH SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1366 New Haven Avenue 203-876-7707 www.captainscatchmilford.com Open Tues-Sun for lunch and dinner

POP’S FAMILY RESTAURANT 134 Old Gate Lane 203-876-1210 www.popsfamilyrestaurant.com Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

RHODE ISLAND CLAM CHOWDER Chunks of meaty clams and hearty

BLUEBERRY PIE

in this classic New England chowder.

Tiny Maine blueberries, sweet with a hint

Hailing from the shore of Rhode

of tartness, fill this traditional New England

Island, the clam stock base of the soup

dessert pie. The deep blue filling, encased in a

is delicate yet flavorful, shining the

sturdy yet flaky crust, is a perfect way to end

spotlight on the star of the show, hard shell New England clams. Served with oyster crackers on the side. $3.99/bowl, $10.99/quart

SHAILEEN KELLY LANDSBERG(2)

potatoes float in a delicious clear broth

a meal at Pops, and can be enjoyed cold with a dollop of whipped cream or warmed and accompanied by a scoop of local Buck’s ice cream. $3.79 —Shaileen Kelly Landsberg

Book Your Next Party in our Brand New Party Room

bin100

F O U R CO U R S E S: $27 LU N C H $38 D I N N E R

restaurant

— Milford —

100 Lansdale Ave. (Corner of Bridgeport Ave.)

203.882.1400

Accommodating private parties of 10-130 Visit Bin100.com for menus & pricing

2019 • Milford Living 31

Downtow Get To Know

Get To Know DOWNTOWN

M

M ILFORD owntown ilforD To Know

msy

www.downtownmilfordct.com

www.downtownmilfordct.o

Back on the Rack ~ Milford Green A consignment boutique specializing in new & like-new women’s designer clothing and accessories!

26 S. Broad St. Milford, CT. | 203-877-1776

S Get To Know DOW

o

Visit our 2nd store location in Hamden: 2348 Whitney Ave.

A Bed & Breakfast on the Wepawaug River We are your family’s home away from home

www.backontherackct.com

44 Prospect Street Milford, CT 203-876-9996 www.bbonline/ct/lilypad

Like us on Facebook and follow us on twitter!

Village Vogue

MIL

w su

Your innkeepers: Ann Maher & Steve Rathbun

www.do

MilforD

wn

D

org

www.downtownmilfordct.org

Whispers From Lady Olga A bra is a Woman’s best investment The Area’s Most Experienced Bra Fitters Sizes A-M Established 2006 Bridal Fashions, Sleepwear, Clothing and Accessories

NEW LOCATION ON THE GREEN

Gift Certificates Available

8 Broad Street, Milford (203) 876-7400

AUTO • HOME BUSINESS

Serving the insurance needs of families and businesses since 1925

williamsagencyins.com

152 Broad Street, Milford, CT 06460

203.874.2581

Please visit us on Facebook

Scan for all the Downtown Milford Buzz!

SAT . ACT . PSAT . Test Prep . Tutoring

Raise your scores... Raise your chances of getting into your first choice.

WNTOWN LFORD

omething iS AlwAyS hAppening in Downtown milforD

www.downtownmilfordct.org upport local businesses

shop - Dine - play Downtown CALL 203-878-7998 TODAY Proud to support the 375th

owntownmilfordct.com

www.FirstChoiceCollege.com Anniversary Celebration

MILFORD REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Meet diverse group of professionals, expand your network and get plugged into Milford!

Have questions or want to join?

Call 203-878-0684 Email chamber@milfordct.com

www.milfordct.com

CELEBRATING MILFORD’S MANY ARCHITECTURAL STYLES

BILL CANFIELD

By Cindy Papish Gerber

HOME, SWEET HOMES

34 Milford Living • Autumn

R

ecent real estate data maps for Milford indicate nearly 3,000 real estate transactions over the past few years.

Homes bought, sold, and rented vary dramatically in price, provenance, and style. Zooming in on the digital

map, it’s not uncommon to click on a vintage 1850s Queen Anne home nestled between a 1960s Ranch and a 1940s Colonial…right down the road from a tri-level waterfront estate.

BILL CANFIELD

In 2006, a comprehensive “Phase 1 Historic and Architectural Resource Survey” was completed by Stacey Scheller Vairo, MFA, and was sponsored by the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation. According to the report, which includes listings and photos of 412 sites, “housing stock in Milford can be broken into three periods: the first

Narrow overhangs, a paneled door

capes, and Federal-style homes. The next period (1830-1900) includes

139 North Street (1750 construction methods/1790s)

New England vernacular homes with Greek Revival and Italianate

This beautifully preserved one-

grace the exterior of this home which

embellishments. The third period (1890-1965) covers shingle, Colonial

room, two-story 18th century red

once belonged to the Bryan family.

Revival, and American Foursquare styles.”

Saltbox was saved from demolition

The Architectural Resource Survey

in 2014. Saltbox homes are char-

cites it as a good example of the

acterized by a prominent center

classic New England Colonial, char-

includes houses built from 1700-1830, such as New England colonials,

Here is a small sampling of the many different types of architecture found in Milford.

71 Chapel Street (1790) and double hung sash windows

chimney and sloping gabled roof,

acterized by symmetrical windows

Eels-Stowe House (1700)

practicality. As Vairo notes in the

resembling actual wooden salt

and a prominent chimney placed

Believed to be Milford’s oldest

Architectural Resource Survey,

boxes found in Colonial kitchens.

in the center of a wood frame. The

house, the Eels-Stowe House is one

“Up until the 18th century, most

This house has historical signifi-

central hearth helped to circulate

of three that makes up the campus

Capes were characterized by low

cance, as John Downs, a weaver,

heat during New England winters.

of the Milford Historical Society

eaves and 8” tall corner posts,

schoolteacher, and soldier who

Homes like this one often, “began as

on Wharf Lane. Ownership of this

which afforded very little useable

served as a Milford Minutemen,

one room and chamber and were ex-

Saltbox-style home passed from

space on the second story.”

once resided here.

panded upon as families prospered.”

Colonel Samuel Eels, to his son Nathaniel, and then to Stephen Stow.

In 1930 the house was saved from destruction by the Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), which carefully restored it using much of the home’s original materials and building techniques.

176 North Street (1744) Clad in simple wooden shingles, this New England Colonial Cape is a mere 11/2 rooms deep by two rooms wide. It is associated with in the French and Indian wars.

Like many other capes of this period, it is unadorned and built for

BILL CANFIELD

Samuel Merchant, who served

2019 • Milford Living 35

BILL CANFIELD

JJ RICHARDS

COURTESY OF CODY WHITE

Sanford-Bristol House, 111-113 North Street (1790)

New England,” says Platt. The

which borrows architectural details

it as “the largest and most impres-

property was once the home of Hen-

such as columns, heavy cornices,

sively designed Greek Revival-style

ry Botsford, one of Milford’s original

and gables from ancient Greek

homes in Milford and is one of the

According to former City Histo-

free planters. The front entrance

temples—is the most prevalent

finest in Southern CT.”

rian Richard Platt, this Dutch Half

is shielded by a flat-roofed portico,

style seen in Milford. This example,

Gambrel Saltbox “represents the

topped by a projecting cornice sup-

originally a private residence built

most outstanding example of

ported by fluted columns. As Vairo

for former Connecticut Governor

this particular style…of which

explains, “The entrance is the focal

Charles H. Pond, is no exception. The

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 71 River Street (1851)

Milford originally had 6 houses.

point of all Federal buildings…

Architectural Resource Survey lists

Designed by Frank Willis, a

The construction and design were

typically subdued with minimum

influenced by Dutch carpenters

classical elaboration.”

who visited in the 18th century. saved from demolition.”

84 Gunn Street (1822)

Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 North Broad Street (1845) When viewing this impressive

This 2 /2 story clapboard house, occu-

white building from the Green,

pying the corner of Gunn and Ford

one can’t help but admire the six

Streets, “is an excellent example of

Ionic fluted columns spanning

a classic Federal house in Milford,

the sprawling 7-bayed façade. The

similar to others built throughout

Greek Revival style in all its forms—

1

36 Milford Living • Autumn

BILL CANFIELD

Fortunately, it too was recently

prominent British architect of

built this Fort Trumbull

Gothic Revival churches, the

Beach mansion to use

rough-cut brownstone used to

as his summer home.

construct St. Peter’s was brought

Despite being remodeled

in from Portland, CT.

The in-

and converted into a

terior includes magnificently

nine-unit condo complex,

restored Tiffany windows. It is

it is still Milford’s best

the only remaining structure of

example of Shingle style.

its kind within the downtown

Architectural Digest dis-

distinct.

tinguishes Shingle style, “by wood cladding, asym-

10-12 Lafayette Street (1870)

metrical façades, gambrel

Not only is this home listed

verandas.”

roofs,

and

welcoming

by Vairo on the Architectural of

architecture was originally built

dormers, this is one of the few

the most elaborate and best

Survey

as the carriage house for Henry G.

remaining examples of Second

Vairo refers to this Victorian-era

examples

Lafayette

Thompson’s Morningside estate.

Empire–style homes remaining

stunner as an, “Exotic Revival

Street ‘development’ houses’, it is

Converted into a residence in 1942,

in Milford. This architectural style

former hotel that was built in a

a prime example of Gothic Revival

signature Stick-style elements are

can be directly traced to France,

Chateauesque style…based on 16th

architecture.” Heavily influenced

represented by decorative stick

specifically to the reign of Napo-

century French hunting lodges

by Great Britain country manors,

work (wood trim) applied horizon-

leon III, 1852-1870. It became quite

and castles.” The exterior is clad

castles, and churches, identifiable

tally, vertically, and diagonally to

popular in the Northeast during

in wooden shingles and stone.

features include scrollwork, a

the exterior. The carpenter Miles B.

this period.

Features include a tall, hipped

steeply pitched roof, gingerbread

Plumb and mason James L. Miles

trim, and arched windows, similar

are credited with the impressive

to the double pane units found on

handiwork.

of

as the

“one

this stately white home.

405 Gulf Street (ca. 1880s)

Fowler Memorial Building, 45 New Haven Avenue (1870)

Originally built to take advantage

Vairo cites this one-time home

of views of Long Island Sound, this

as an “excellent example of a

is “a good example of the Queen

Colonial Revival-style house” that

Anne-style homes so popular during

was, and still is, a favorite. Like

the turn of the century,” wrote Vairo.

many in Milford, these homes

Typically asymmetrical in plan,

intentionally

they include steeply pitched hipped

elements of a New England farm-

irregular roof lines with towers,

house or historic Colonial home.

wraparound porches, and decorative

Traditional features such as white

woodwork. The roof of this pictur-

wooden shingles, exterior brick

esque clapboard house has turned

chimneys, two stories, and front

finials edged with scalloped trim.

bay windows are omnipresent.

115 Ridgewood Drive (1860)

158 S. Broad St (1880)

This superb example of Stick-style

its mansard roof and hooded

mimic

1 Anderson Ave (c.1890)

roof tower, two exterior stone

Henry A. Taylor Summer Home, 6 Seaside Ave (1890)

chimneys,

faceted

windows,

With its sweeping views over the

symbol of Milford’s resort-era

Sound, it’s easy to see why railroad

past”; a true standout in the

magnate Henry Augustus Taylor

Borough of Woodmont.

and a wide central entrance.

This building, “is significant as a

classical COURTESY OF WEICHERT ON THE MARK REALTORS

Resource

Are we in Milford or Paris? With

2019 • Milford Living 37

Taylor Memorial Library, 5 Broad Street (1895)

preceding and following WWI. The

Villa Rosa and Villa Rosa Terrace

overhanging eaves and enclosed

boxy style was economical and

was built to impress by theater

cobblestone porch.

easy to reproduce (think pre-fab

impresario Sylvester Poli. Vairo

Pioneered

Hobson

Sears Roebuck). This early 2 /2 story

describes, “its size and level of

Richardson, famed architect of

Foursquare has a central dormer,

detail comparable to contempo-

Paul’s Hamburgers, 831 Boston Post Road (1946)

Boston’s Trinity Church, this im-

paired windows, open porch, and

rary mansions build in Beverly

Straight out of a scene from The

posing fieldstone, red sandstone,

minimal detailing.

Hills in the 1930s.” Cream stucco

Jetsons, Vairo points to this com-

masonry, terra cotta roof tile,

munity landmark’s iconic sign.

and

by

yellow

Henry

brick

1

Richardson

Romanesque structure was a

Milford Photo, 22-28 River Street (1912)

wrought iron entrance gates, and

Under that sign is a simple concrete

gift from philanthropist Henry

leaded glass windows enhance

building that once housed a very

Taylor. This centrally located

Not only is this building an im-

the 15-room main house. The

popular burger joint. The large,

building, now housing Milford’s

portant example of the classic

seaside complex, that includes 10

modernist, boldly angled sign is

Chamber of Commerce, features

Beaux Arts style, its origins as the

other villas, adds a bit of La Dolce

“significant for its Googie archi-

several unique design elements

first commercial bank building in

Vita to Woodmont.

tecture, which came out as result

inspired by French,

of

Spanish, and Italian

space-age culture that

Romanesque

developed in the ‘50s

archi-

tecture, including a

the

car-centric,

and ‘60s.”

conical roof flanked by turrets, massive arches, detailed ma-

40 Tall Pine Road (1967)

sonry, and jalousie

Vincent Amore, a lo-

windows.

cal architect known for his Modernist de-

14 Charles Street (ca. 1910)

signs and creative use

Retaining much of its

masonry,

original

ornamenta-

this hip, sprawling

tion, this Carpenter

home in the Interna-

Gothic is representa-

tional Design style.

tive of other homes

Amore set this flat-

that formerly existed

roofed, boxy dwelling

of steel, concrete, and

throughout Fort Trum-

designed

into a solid rock ledge;

bull in the early 1900s. The decora-

Milford “makes a statement” and

the rock blasted from the ledge

adds to its prominent placement

85 Governors Avenue (1922)

tive woodwork, balusters, and two-story porch framed by fanci-

on River Street. Its Beaux-Arts

This well-preserved 1 /2 story rect-

interior chimney and fireplace.

ful white posts evoke the popular

features and forms include four

angular home possesses signature

Influenced by well known post-

cottage chic style reproduced by

Doric columns, five bays, and

American Craftsman style ele-

modern architects such as Phillip

modern furniture makers.

decorated cornered masonry.

ments. The bungalow style devel-

Johnson, this distinctive home is

oped in California between 1900-

a rare of example of International

1930, eventually became popular

Design in Milford.

structure, symmetrical four-room

Villa Rosa and Poli Compound, 33 Abigail Street (1917)

floor plan and low-pitched, hipped

An “exotic” Italianate Revival

it is a part, began in Boston) thanks

31 Robert Treat Parkway (1979)

roofs, Foursquare homes were well

mansion, this landmark resem-

to its livable design and Asian-

Definitely “Deco,” this single-

suited for small lots that sprung

bles an Italian Villa embellished

inspired woodwork. This Milford

story concrete/stucco Art Moderne

up around Milford in the years

with Spanish Colonial accents.

Craftsman has a low-pitched roof,

house with a two-story tower

27 Green Street (1900) Characterized by its simple square

38 Milford Living • Autumn

1

was repurposed to construct the

on the East Coast (although the Arts & Crafts Movement, of which

wouldn’t seem out of place in Downtown Miami Beach.

Instead, it sharply stands out from all the other ‘60s ranches and capes in this busy Milford neighborhood. Fred H. Merwin was inspired to design it based on an illustration printed in a BILL CANFIELD

1920 copy of Shelter Magazine.

With its curved walls and smooth surfaces decorated with intersecting horizontal and vertical lines, this house is one of a kind in Milford.

MARGEAUX SETTINERI

Ludlow Drive, Baxter Lane (and others) (1950s - 1970s) The Ranch and Raised Ranch homes on these neatly manicure streets represent countless others that were built on farms that were sold, subdivided, and constructed in Milford during the post WWII housing boom.

Averaging approximately 2,000 square feet, railroad floor plans would typically include three bedrooms, a living room/dining room, 11/2 baths, attached garage, and large picture window facing the street.

McMansion (pre-2008) Three levels, a three-car garage, bathrooms galore, walk in closets, a sumptuous master suite, spacious foyers, soaring ceilings, and a huge center-island kitchen, these oversized, mega homes possess no particular architectural style, other than that “WOW” factor. Yes, a few

BILL CANFIELD

exist in Milford, but privacy (and locked gates) prevents us from divulging specific addresses or photos.

2019 • Milford Living 39

arts + artisans

The Ageless Art of Bronze T housands of years ago, artisans developed a technique to create sculptures out of bronze.

The process of creating molds and pouring molten metal is quite involved, but worth the work.

Known as lost wax casting (also referred to as investment casting), the process allowed artists to create sculptures to endure the test of time. The first known example is 6,000 years old, a bronze amulet discovered in South Asia where the Indus Valley civilization was located.

For decades, Doreen Ely Bledsoe has been

the country and around the globe have their

creating art as well as helping other artists fulfill

sculptures cast at the foundry on Roses Mill Road

their visions. “I never went to art school. I began

here in Milford.

working at the Italian Renaissance foundry in

“Artists will create their work in a variety

1981 when I was 21,” she recalls. “I then worked

of medium. A current project we are working

with Ronald Cavalier at the Cavalier Sculpture

on is made of balsa wood. It’s very delicate to

Casting. Purchasing the business, we renamed

work with,” says Bledsoe. “Clay is probably the

it Ageless Art Casting. We are the only fine art foundry in Connecticut.” Artists from across Above: The Ageless Arts Casting team attends the unveiling of the Police Memorial statue in Bridgeport.

The labor intensive casting process is long, but worth the results.

40 Milford Living • Autumn

COURTESY OF AGELESS ARTS CASTING TEAM (3)

most commonly submitted. We have to keep the clay moist so that it retains its shape prior to beginning our casting process.”

And what a process it is! “We cover the sculpture carefully with polymer clay, creating an even layer. Then it is covered in plaster,” Bledsoe explains. “An opening, or mold cavity, is where liquid rubber is poured into the mold, replacing the polymer. The rubber mold is then used to create a wax casting.”

Bledsoe’s daughter-in-law, Diana, steps in

are heated to a temperature of 2,000

to speak about the next steps. “The wax cast

degrees in a crucible. “The molten

of the sculpture is repeatedly dipped in liquid

bronze is poured and fills the space

ceramics and silicate,” she explains. “The grains

of the wax form,” Bledsoe says. “We

are varied in size so they will fill in every detail

reclaim the wax as is melts and use

of the piece.” The piece is dipped dozens of

it again. Our wax has been used over

times to attain a consistent thickness that will

and over through the years.” The same

create the final ceramic mold.

goes for any drips of bronze; nothing is

䘀刀䔀䔀 䐀䔀䰀䤀嘀䔀刀夀

Artists will visit to view the wax form,

䌀愀琀攀爀椀渀最 䄀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀

䈀愀渀焀甀攀琀 刀漀漀洀

wasted.

providing them an opportunity to make any

Once the bronze has cooled, the mold

touch-ups in the wax prior to the final pour.

is removed. As Bledsoe explains, “the

“One thing we always check is to be sure the

bronze piece is cleaned and patinated to

artist signed their piece,” Bledsoe says. “One

the artists request. There are different

time we had an artist that didn’t; they were

chemicals that can create a variety of

in South America. She sent us a copy of her

finishes.”

戀甀猀椀渀攀猀猀 洀攀攀琀椀渀最猀Ⰰ 猀栀漀眀攀爀猀Ⰰ 戀椀爀琀栀搀愀礀猀Ⰰ

昀甀渀搀爀愀椀猀攀爀猀 愀渀搀 洀甀挀栀 洀漀爀攀 ⸀⸀⸀

signature so we could reproduce it on the sculpture.”

The Martin Luther King bust in

Bronze (an alloy of copper and tin) ingots

Ansonia was cast in Milford.

䘀刀䔀䔀 䐀䔀䰀䤀嘀䔀刀夀

䈀愀渀焀甀攀琀 刀漀漀洀

䌀愀琀攀爀椀渀最 䄀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀

戀甀猀椀渀攀猀猀 洀攀攀琀椀渀最猀Ⰰ 猀栀漀眀攀爀猀Ⰰ 戀椀爀琀栀搀愀礀猀Ⰰ

䘀刀䔀䔀 䐀䔀䰀䤀嘀䔀刀夀

昀甀渀搀爀愀椀猀攀爀猀 愀渀搀 洀甀挀栀 洀漀爀攀 ⸀⸀⸀

䈀愀渀焀甀攀琀 刀漀漀洀

䌀愀琀攀爀椀渀最 䄀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀

戀甀猀椀渀攀猀猀 洀攀攀琀椀渀最猀Ⰰ 猀栀漀眀攀爀猀Ⰰ 戀椀爀琀栀搀愀礀猀Ⰰ

昀甀渀搀爀愀椀猀攀爀猀 愀渀搀 洀甀挀栀 洀漀爀攀 ⸀⸀⸀

䔀愀爀氀礀 䈀椀爀搀 匀瀀攀挀椀愀氀猀

㈀ ㌀⸀㠀㜀㘀⸀㄀㈀㄀

猀琀愀爀琀椀渀最 ␀㄀㄀⸀㤀㔀匀瀀攀挀椀愀氀猀 ∠ ㌀瀀洀 ⴀ 㜀瀀洀 䔀愀爀氀礀愀琀 䈀椀爀搀

圀椀琀栀 猀漀甀瀀 漀爀 猀愀氀愀搀Ⰰ 搀爀椀渀欀 ☀ 搀攀猀猀攀爀琀⸀ 椀渀 猀琀漀爀攀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀 猀琀愀爀琀椀渀最 愀琀匀攀攀 ␀㄀㄀⸀㤀㔀 ∠ ㌀瀀洀 ⴀ 㜀瀀洀 搀攀猀猀攀爀琀⸀ 匀攀攀 椀渀 猀琀漀爀攀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀 Online Ordering 圀椀琀栀 猀漀甀瀀 漀爀 猀愀氀愀搀Ⰰ 搀爀椀渀欀 䴀攀攀琀 ☀ ᰠ圀栀攀爀攀 䘀爀椀攀渀搀猀 ⸀⸀⸀ 䄀渀搀 䘀爀椀攀渀搀猀 䄀爀攀 䴀愀搀攀ᴠ 猀琀愀爀琀椀渀最 愀琀 ␀㄀㄀⸀㤀㔀 ∠ ㌀瀀洀 ⴀ 㜀瀀洀 圀椀琀栀 猀漀甀瀀 漀爀 猀愀氀愀搀Ⰰ 搀爀椀渀欀 ☀ 䔀愀爀氀礀 䈀椀爀搀 匀瀀攀挀椀愀氀猀

搀攀猀猀攀爀琀⸀ 匀攀攀 椀渀 猀琀漀爀攀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀

Available

ᰠ圀栀攀爀攀 䄀爀攀 吀甀攀猀搀愀礀 ᰠ圀栀攀爀攀 䘀爀椀攀渀搀猀 䘀爀椀攀渀搀猀 䴀攀攀琀 䴀攀攀琀 ⸀⸀⸀ ⸀⸀⸀ 䄀渀搀 䄀渀搀 䘀爀椀攀渀搀猀 䘀爀椀攀渀搀猀 䄀爀攀 䴀愀搀攀ᴠ 䴀愀搀攀ᴠ 䴀漀渀搀愀礀 䬀椀搀猀 䔀愀琀 䘀刀䔀䔀 一椀最栀琀℀ 䈀甀爀最攀爀 一椀最栀琀 吀甀攀猀搀愀礀 䴀漀渀搀愀礀 䌀䠀䤀䰀䐀刀䔀一 ㄀㈀ ☀ 唀一䐀䔀刀

䴀漀渀搀愀礀

䬀椀搀猀 䔀愀琀 䘀刀䔀䔀 一椀最栀琀℀ 圀椀琀栀 愀 瀀甀爀挀栀愀猀攀 漀昀 ␀㄀ ⸀ 漀爀 洀漀爀攀⸀ 伀渀攀 昀爀攀攀 欀椀搀猀㄀㈀ 洀攀愀氀 瀀攀爀 愀搀甀氀琀⸀ 䌀䠀䤀䰀䐀刀䔀一 ☀ 唀一䐀䔀刀

䌀栀椀氀搀 洀甀猀琀 戀攀 瀀爀攀猀攀渀琀⸀ 圀椀琀栀 愀 瀀甀爀挀栀愀猀攀 漀昀 ␀㄀ ⸀ 漀爀 洀漀爀攀⸀ 伀渀攀 昀爀攀攀 欀椀搀猀 洀攀愀氀 瀀攀爀 瘀椀攀眀 愀搀甀氀琀⸀ 漀甀爀 䌀栀椀氀搀 洀甀猀琀 戀攀 瀀爀攀猀攀渀琀⸀

吀甀攀猀搀愀礀

㄀⼀㈀ 氀戀⸀ 䈀甀爀最攀爀 搀攀氀甀砀攀⸀䤀渀挀氀甀搀攀猀 氀攀琀琀甀挀攀Ⰰ 琀漀洀愀琀漀 ☀ 挀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 ㌀ 琀漀瀀瀀椀渀最猀⸀ 匀攀爀瘀攀搀 眀椀琀栀 挀漀昀昀攀攀Ⰰ 琀攀愀 漀爀 猀漀昀琀 搀爀椀渀欀⸀ ㄀⼀㈀ 氀戀⸀ 䈀甀爀最攀爀 搀攀氀甀砀攀⸀䤀渀挀氀甀搀攀猀 ␀㤀⸀㤀㔀 氀攀琀琀甀挀攀Ⰰ 琀漀洀愀琀漀 ☀ 挀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 ㌀ 琀漀瀀瀀椀渀最猀⸀ 匀攀爀瘀攀搀 眀椀琀栀 挀漀昀昀攀攀Ⰰ 琀攀愀 漀爀 猀漀昀琀 搀爀椀渀欀⸀

䈀甀爀最攀爀 一椀最栀琀

㈀ ㌀⸀㠀㜀㘀⸀㄀㈀㄀

㄀㌀㐀 伀氀搀 ㄀㌀㐀 伀氀搀 䜀愀琀攀 䜀愀琀攀 䰀渀 䰀渀 ㈀ ㌀⸀㠀㜀㘀⸀㄀㈀㄀ 䴀椀氀昀漀爀搀Ⰰ 䌀吀 㘀㐀㘀 䴀椀氀昀漀爀搀Ⰰ 㘀㐀㘀 ㄀㌀㐀 伀氀搀䌀吀 䜀愀琀攀 䰀渀 䴀椀氀昀漀爀搀Ⰰ 䌀吀 㘀㐀㘀

圀攀搀渀攀猀搀愀礀 倀愀猀琀愀 一椀最栀琀 匀攀爀瘀攀搀 眀椀琀栀 猀漀甀瀀 漀爀 猀愀氀愀搀 ☀ 挀栀漀椀挀攀 圀攀搀渀攀猀搀愀礀 漀昀 挀漀昀昀攀攀Ⰰ 琀攀愀 漀爀 猀漀昀琀 搀爀椀渀欀⸀

圀攀搀渀攀猀搀愀礀 倀愀猀琀愀 一椀最栀琀

㄀⸀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 瀀愀猀琀愀

匀攀爀瘀攀搀 眀椀琀栀 猀漀甀瀀漀昀漀爀猀愀甀挀攀 猀愀氀愀搀 ☀ 挀栀漀椀挀攀 ㈀⸀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 挀漀昀昀攀攀Ⰰ 琀攀愀漀昀漀爀 猀漀昀琀琀漀瀀瀀椀渀最猀 搀爀椀渀欀⸀ ㌀⸀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀 琀栀爀攀攀

昀甀氀氀 洀攀渀甀 愀琀 䬀椀搀猀 䔀愀琀 䘀刀䔀䔀 一椀最栀琀℀眀眀眀⸀瀀漀瀀猀昀愀洀椀氀礀爀攀猀琀愀甀爀愀渀琀⸀挀漀洀 ␀㤀⸀㤀㔀 䈀甀爀最攀爀 一椀最栀琀

倀愀猀琀愀 一椀最栀琀

␀㄀ ⸀㤀㔀 ㄀⸀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 瀀愀猀琀愀 ㈀⸀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀匀攀攀 漀昀 猀愀甀挀攀 椀渀 猀琀漀爀攀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀 ㌀⸀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 琀栀爀攀攀 琀漀瀀瀀椀渀最猀

␀㄀ ⸀㤀㔀 匀攀爀瘀攀搀 眀椀琀栀 猀漀甀瀀 漀爀 猀愀氀愀搀 ☀ 挀栀漀椀挀攀 匀攀攀 椀渀 猀琀漀爀攀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀 瘀椀攀眀 漀甀爀 昀甀氀氀 洀攀渀甀 愀琀 䌀䠀䤀䰀䐀刀䔀一 ㄀㈀ ☀ 唀一䐀䔀刀 眀眀眀⸀瀀漀瀀猀昀愀洀椀氀礀爀攀猀琀愀甀爀愀渀琀⸀挀漀洀 漀昀 挀漀昀昀攀攀Ⰰ 琀攀愀 漀爀 猀漀昀琀 搀爀椀渀欀⸀ ㄀⼀㈀ 氀戀⸀ 䈀甀爀最攀爀 搀攀氀甀砀攀⸀䤀渀挀氀甀搀攀猀

圀椀琀栀 愀 瀀甀爀挀栀愀猀攀 漀昀 ␀㄀ ⸀ 漀爀 洀漀爀攀⸀

氀攀琀琀甀挀攀Ⰰ 琀漀洀愀琀漀 ☀ 挀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 ㌀ 琀漀瀀瀀椀渀最猀⸀

㄀⸀ 䌀栀漀椀挀攀 漀昀 瀀愀猀琀愀2019 • Milford Living

41

arts + artisans Larger works are cast in sections and COURTESY OF AGELESS ARTS CASTING TEAM (2)

welded together by Bledsoe’s son Russell.

One commission, created by Bledsoe, is the Bridgeport Police Memorial in front of the city’s police headquarters, depicting a 6-foot 3-inch policeman holding the hands of two children.

Most work is a true family affair, with Bledsoe and her son and daughter-in-law working in concert to create works for private and public viewing pleasure. A bust of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr in front of Ansonia Town Hall was created with over 20 molded pieces. There are

Doreen Ely Bledsoe’s experience in casting sculpture is an art in itself.

many others as well. View their website to view their work www.agelessartcasting.com.

This unique family business creates permanent pieces that will last for

generations…art for the ages. This timeless,

fond of saying “If it’s too clean, you’re not

complex, and frankly, quite messy method

working hard enough.”

gives art immortality. As Doreen Bledsoe is

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

PET SPA Grooming

Reiki and Massage For Dogs & Cats For All Pets! Call or Text 203-494-1152 Dog, Cat and Small Animal Nails

555 Boston Post Rd Orange, CT 06477 Across from Trader Joes 42 Milford Living • Autumn

KAREN & AMBER

Mother/Daughter Team

M en f wa or tion rd a s thi yo pe s p ur cia ro de l s mo nt avi tio al tre ngs n atm en t!

to

The patient care here is second to none. My entire family are patients of this practice, including my son.

I wholeheartedly recommend Brush & Floss Dental to anyone looking for a practice with a really hands-on, caring approach.

-Steve, Patient

Dr. Jeffrey C. Hoos, DMD, FAGD

203.378.9500 | BetterSmile.com

HIGH-TECH FAMILY, COSMETIC AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY We want your family to be a part of our family. We are dedicated to providing patients with the best dental care available. Our office staff is friendly and welcoming, and our facilities are comfortable, creating a relaxing experience during your visits.

Dr. Johna Zitnay, DMD

Dr. Gemma Kwolek, DDS

Dr. Julia Latham, DDS

4949 Main Street, Stratford | P: 203.378.9500 | F: 203.386.9057

Mon–Thurs: 8am – 8pm | Fri: 8:30am – 5pm | Sat: 8:30am – 4pm All consultations are complimentary!

Call today to schedule yours!

education notebook

Ethical Education

W

“

ho do you want to be?”

“Do you want to be a person of integrity, a person known as caring?”

These are questions David Wangaard thinks every teen should be asked. It’s at the heart of the work he oversees as president and director of The School for Ethical Education (SEE).

Mark Consorte, Social Studies Department head at West Haven High School, an email from Wangaard looking to partner with area educators coincided with some “fairly major cheating violations” at the high school.

SEE, a non-profit agency located in Milford, was founded in 1995 by John Winthrop Wright, a philanthropic businessman who saw a need for greater standards of character in society. Wright died the following year and left COURTESY OF THE SCHOOL FOR ETHICAL EDUCATION

a portion of his estate to the school. “John was 84 years old when I first met him and he was still working every day,” recalls Wangaard.

“His fundamental legacy was empowering more people to lead a life of character.” The programs, professional

Mentors and students work together to instill character education through programs in schools.

development, and consulting services offered by the school

character can be appropriated at many points

Consorte sought Wangaard’s help to start the

support its vision of teaching “strategies to

in one’s life,” he explains, pointing out that

Academic Integrity Committee (AIC), a group

(K-16) educators to put ethics in action for

habits are best established at earlier ages

comprised of faculty and students looking

positive character formation of students.”

when there are many opportunities for young

to discourage cheating while promoting

people to take ownership of the direction their

integrity.

Wangaard sees schools as having a unique opportunity to not only highlight and recognize ethics and core values within

lives will take.

A focus of Wangaard’s work in recent years

In the fall, committee members visit all 3rd grade classrooms in West Haven and read a

the academic realm, but also to loop those

has been SEE’s Integrity Works! program,

story to the students, discuss the importance

messages back to parents. “Lessons of

which emphasizes academic integrity. For

of living a life of integrity and being honest,

44 Milford Living • Autumn

and administer the AIC Pledge. They return to each classroom in the spring and use skits to

make integrity an aspirational goal.”

Christopher Kulenych, an English and

and exemplify, honesty and integrity. “With technology and the internet there are so many

re-establish the conversation. The committee

Journalism teacher at Jonathan Law

tempting ways to cheat and plagiarize. The

also creates lessons on cheating and integrity

High School, uses SEE’s Public Service

idea is to get kids to take ownership in their

for use during the high school’s Advisory

Announcement (PSA) contest with his

work, to not give in to the temptation to take

periods, conducts pledge drives throughout

broadcast journalism students. The purpose of

short cuts, and to always strive to do better.”

the year asking students to promise not to

the contest is to promote academic integrity

The recent emphasis of the contest has been

cheat, and carries out an integrity poster

in a positive and proactive manner, using

on personal integrity and being kind to one

contest for 8th grade students at Bailey

short 30-60 second clips created by students

another. “At Law we take pride in our being a

Middle School. While the committee also

who work in teams and enter three or four

kind school and I welcomed the opportunity to

raises awareness of the importance of

videos each year. He finds they are a creative

shift to this focus,” says Kulenych.

academic integrity during midterm and final

way for teens to give advice to their friends

exams, Wangaard contends it’s not just about

about practicing academic integrity. The

of integrity can be translated well beyond

test taking. “It’s about creating a culture of

school’s Advisory program uses the PSAs

academics, to athletics, performing arts,

integrity and encouraging young people to

throughout the year to spur discussion about,

and more. “If the work is to be authentically

From Wangaard’s perspective, a culture

Pediatric House Call Solutions Sick Children Seen In Your Home MOST INSURANCES, HUSKY A&B ACCEPTED

Tests • Exams • Prescriptions

(203) 893-5394 www.pediatrichousecallsolutions.com 2019 • Milford Living 45

education notebook engaging, the adults must be role models,” he says, with staff and students functioning with integrity at all levels of school life.

Foran teacher Lisa Farrell became familiar with SEE when she worked in the Bridgeport school district. As an advisor of Foran’s

“There are so many pressures on students today. These are critical skills and tools that will help when working with other people, especially in a mentorship role and role model situation such as Natural Helpers.”

Natural Helper’s program, which includes freshman mentoring, she asked Wangaard

address it. “David’s work reinforces the

to speak at the group’s orientation this fall.

strategies needed for peer mentoring,” says

Helpers directly aligns to, tapping the

In a service-learning model, which Natural

“David will reinforce the core ethical values

Farrell, who sees the value of this message

resources of SEE was a natural choice for

necessary in a role that works with younger

in a school setting. “There are so many

Farrell. “Fostering good, being a civic leader,

students and share strategies on teamwork

pressures on students today. These are

managing difficult decisions around ethical

skills and creating a positive atmosphere.”

critical skills and tools that will help when

dilemmas—this is part of the training to get

Part of the Natural Helpers application is

working with other people, especially in a

them ready.”

to describe a difficult situation, such as

mentorship role and role model situation

bullying, and how the applicant would

such as Natural Helpers.”

Wangaard continues his work because of feedback he receives from teachers who share

• SAT and ACT Test Prep • Online SAT Classes • College Essay Writing • Group and Private Tutoring An increase of 100 points on your SAT scores can mean the difference between getting accepted by or rejected by your First Choice College. It could mean thousands of dollars in college scholarships. Let us help you ensure your future success.

75 NEW HAVEN AVENUE, MILFORD • 203 878-7998 • INFO@FIRSTCHOICECOLLEGE.COM 46 Milford Living • Autumn

stories of successful implementation of a SEE program. He recalls a 25-year veteran educator who was ready to quit the profession because of the increasing COURTESY OF THE SCHOOL FOR ETHICAL EDUCATION

discipline issues she was encountering.

Students receive recognition for their participation in School for Ethical Education programs.

SEE’s programming made an impact on her work and she changed her mind. He explains, “When a school implements character education, it creates an aspirational climate accepting of mistakes and embracing apologies. When a school is a safe, welcoming, loving place it makes for happier staff and students. It’s a place people want to be. That’s what character education can do.”

—Susan Glennon

Voted Top Dentist

by Top Doctor Awards 2018 & 2019

2019 • Milford Living 47

historical perspective

The End of the Line

T

hese days it’s common to see trucks of all sizes driving down I-95 and through the streets of Milford carrying goods of all kind. In the not too distance past, however, Milford manufacturers had a very different method of receiving and shipping goods.

“Back in the smokestack technology days…everything was horse and wagon and steam engines, and everything got around by train,” says Howard Williams, secretary of the New Haven & Derby Model Railroad Club. “Especially in an industrial state like Connecticut, there were spurs everywhere. Anyone who Above: City Carting still operates

raw materials shipped out. Guess how?

their rail spur. Left: The now defunct

On tracks. By rails.”

Furniture Row spur. Below: The old

BRIAN CREEVY

made or did anything had to get their

Rail spurs are dead-end short tracks that branch off the main railroads.

Manufacturers in the past would use

Devon Station. efficient option for moving

them as the main method to receive

goods became available for

or send supplies in boxcars along the

companies in Milford—trucks.

COURTESY OF JOHN GREENER

main lines.

Two rail spurs branched off the eastbound and westbound tracks of the New York and New Haven Railroad—the main line that travels through downtown Milford which was completed in 1849. The westbound

“The biggest decline of the railroads in total were multiple things, but for the freight industry it is most likely the trucks and the highways they used,” says Riley Webb, head operator of the Boothe

track was owned by a concrete plant that

of which was supplied from a coalyard

Memorial Railway Society. “People began

supplied materials to build I-95. The spur

in Stratford across the Housatonic River.

saying ‘The trains are becoming too long

was put out of use after the interstate was

Both were active until the early 1950s.

and loading times are taking up too much

completed in 1958.

Another rail spur could be found behind the

time.’”

The Devon Power Plant and the Devon

Furniture Row warehouse off New Haven

Coal & Fuel Company each had rail spurs

Avenue, though it has long been inactive.

that were used for shipments of coal, much

48 Milford Living • Autumn

When I-95 was completed, a more

Trucks became a more efficient method, as they were easier to load and unload and could travel to destinations in a timely

fashion. They were also more economical,

as their primary

as owning property for the rail spurs

method of transit.

became too expensive.

However, some

“A lot of industrial people used to

A model of the Devon power plant built by Milford Senior Center Railroad Club.

industries in the

complain that they couldn’t depend on

area still use

Recycling Company,

the [delivery] times,” recalls John Grosner,

rail spurs for

a waste and recycling

one of the founders of the Milford Senior

shipments.

Center Model Railroad Club. “The delivery

center, off Old Gate

Milford has two

schedules were erratic at best from the

active rail spurs:

railroads, they were having issues at the

one is off the track

time because the federal money was all

parallel to Oronoque Road

being put into the highways.”

at Milford Asphalt Plant #13.

Lane. It is used to ship bulk amounts of waste and recyclable materials.

Though they are the dead ends of railroads, the use of rail spurs

Most of the rail spurs were torn up and

Owned by O&G Industries Inc., a sand and

was—and in some cases remains—a

the metal scrapped in the years following

gravel supplier, the rail spur was actually

necessary path for businesses throughout

the completion of I-95 as manufacturers

built within the past ten years. The second

Milford’s history.

began moving toward using the highways

active rail spur is owned by City Carting &

—Brian Creevy

36 “Show me the manner in which a nation cares for its dead and I will measure with mathematical exactness the tender mercies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land and their loyalty to high ideals.” – William Ewart Gladstone, Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom

ALL FAMILY BUDGETS ACCOMMODATED WITHOUT COMPROMISING OUR QUALITY OF SERVICES David J. DeRubeis – Managing Partner

Thomas J. Cody Jr. - Funeral Director Kyle Duke - Funeral Director Rachel Cimbak – Funeral Director Kevin W. Cody - Funeral Director Amanda Veccharelli - Funeral Director Carly Ericson – Funeral Director Renate Eastman - Office Manager

CODY-WHITE FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICE 107 Broad Street on the Green, Milford (203) 874-0268 • www.codywhitefuneralservice.com

2019 • Milford Living 49

legends & lore

Behind the Tombstones I

n Tombstone, Arizona’s infamous Boot Hill cemetery, there is a tall, white, wooden grave marker with an inscription scrawled in black: “Here lies Lester Moore. Four slugs from a 44. No Les, no more.”

While Boot Hill’s rogue’s gallery resting place is peppered with gallows humor grave markers, it’s not the only example of dark GERRY MCGUIRE (3)

posthumous poetry. Tombstone’s witty epitaphs share a direct lineage with the grim yet wry New Englanders who helped found America. In 1792, a young Milford woman named Mary Fowler died. The first part of her epitaph is typical, but then then it takes a turn

Above: Mary Fowler’s marker was replaced after the unique headstone was moved for safe keeping.

to the macabre, reading:

Above Right: Ardienne Damicis, Milford Historical Society Education chairman, runs the cemetery tour.

“Sacred to the memory of Miss Mary daughter to Mr. William & Mrs. Eunice Fowler who Died Feby 1st AD 1792 in the 24th year of her age.

Molly tho pleasant in her day Was suddenly seiz’d and sent away How soon she’s ripe how soon she’s rott’n Sent to her grave and soon forgott’n”

50 Milford Living • Autumn

Besides the dark ode on the stone, the

pyramids to Etruscan tombs to New England

grave marker has taken on a bit of additional

graveyards, the dead have a lot to say about

fame after being stolen from its plot in

who they were.

2009. Thankfully, it was found nearby. Any

On Saturday, October 19th at 1:00 pm, in the

knowledge of who Molly Fowler was is

Old Milford Cemetery, costumed re-enactors

based entirely on what was written on her

will lead visitors on a guided tour through the

tombstone. Whether it’s Lester Moore or Molly

headstones and through time, from the 1600s

Fowler, it’s their dying that gives us a sense of

to our more recent past, where you can meet

who they were and how they lived.

some of Milford’s most famous citizens, hear

The burial monuments that previous peoples and civilizations left behind have been essential tools in understanding those who came before us. From Egyptian

their stories, and understand the lives they lived in the town they helped build.

Time has not been kind to many of the headstones; hundreds of years of New England

winters, nor’easters, sun, wind, and rain have eroded many of the stones while others have fallen over or broken. The Milford Historical GERRY MCGUIRE (2)

Society, along with its offshoot, the Friends of Milford Cemetery, offer spring and fall cemetery tours to raise money to help fix and document the tombstones and raise awareness about the important place that Old Milford

Many of Milford’s founding families are buried in Milford Cemetery.

Cemetery holds in the city’s long history.

Running the tours is retired Orchard Hills

ministers in my church was down, and I kept

National Cemetery began in the rose garden of

teacher Ardienne Damicis. “When I retired

saying, ’We gotta fix that! We gotta fix that!’

General Robert E. Lee’s wife, Milford cemetery

from teaching, I took over the education

Eventually we did, and it was at that time we

began in the garden of Milford founder Reverend

program at the Historical Society and one

started talking about forming the Friends of

Peter Prudden. According to the History of

of the things that we did was take the kids

Milford Cemetery.”

Milford Connecticut 1639-1939, “The first ground

into the cemetery. So, I became interested

The origin of the cemetery is almost

occupied for a burying place in the town was

in it that way. Then I got very upset because

as interesting as some of the people and

Mr. Prudden’s home lot, being the east end of

the tombstone of one of the most important

monuments found within it. Just as Arlington

his garden...Here were buried all who died in

“If your car doesn’t say Napoli on it, you paid too much.”

WWW.Napolimotors.com

Over 700 New, Pre-Owned and Classics cars to choose from!

– A Trusted Name Since 1959 –

Napoli iNdoor auto/Kia 241 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT

Napoli NissaN Lenny Napoli 688 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT

toll Free: 1-888-776-8853 direct: 203-783-5850

toll Free: 1-800-336-2765 direct: 203-877-5141 2019 • Milford Living 51

legends & lore the town previous to about 1675

more and more symbolic

and among these was Mr. Prudden

and ornate resting places.

himself in 1656.”

Winged skulls, funerary

But, as Damicis explains, you

urns, cherubs, trumpets, hour glasses, oak leaves,

settler’s grave markers. “The

arches, and anchors are all

Puritans considered headstones

symbols that evolved over

a vanity. If it was summer people

time, and place headstones

were wrapped in a blanket and

within certain eras to help

GERRY MCGUIRE

won’t find any of the earliest

put in the ground rather quickly without much ceremony. Death was just a way of life. They grieved privately and moved on.” The

The Weeping Lady is one of the focal points of the Milford Cemetery.

earliest readable tombstone in the cemetery is William Robarts who died in 1689.

His real last name was Roberts, but according to Damicis, “Spelling in the 1600’s, especially by

explain the prevailing culture of that time.

At the October tour, you’ll hear the stories behind the tombstones

stone masons, was kind of hit or miss.”

As you tour the cemetery you see how the puritanical, no headstone rule changes to

first-hand when members of the Milford Historical Society don their best tri-cornered hats, bonnets, and buckled shoes and re-enact

COIN LAUNDRY WITH OUR NEW EXPANSION, WE ARE

BIGGER & BETTER THAN EVER!!!

• • • • •

New Large Capacity Washers & Dryers Now Accepting Credit & Debit Cards on All Machines!

Family Friendly, Safe Environment Flat Screen TV’s & FREE WI-FI Drop-Off Services Available; Center Store only

2 MILFORD LOCATIONS! CENTER

Next to Hospital 2015 Bridgeport Ave. 4am -12 Midnight

DEVON

Naugatuck Ave. & Rt 1 548 Naugatuck Ave 6am – 10pm

www.SockHopCoinLaundry.com 52 Milford Living • Autumn

the lives of Milford’s most famous deceased residents. You’ll learn about the mysterious forgott’n’ Molly Fowler, visit with early Connecticut governor and founder of Newark, New Jersey Robert Treat, hear about the adventures of fur trapper Peter Pond, and

GERRY MCGUIRE (2)

weeping lady encased in glass, meet poor

learn about many other dead denizens of

Left: The common grave of smallpox-infected

Milford. As Damicis explains, “The re-

prisoners of war who died in Milford; Above:

enactments are some good fun, but they help

Symbolic carvings can be found on many older

to give a voice and a face to people who are

headstones.

gone...to get a sense of who they were and that time’s change but people don’t.”

remembered. The Milford Historical Society

Inside the cemetery there is a stone

helps us remember these fellow townspeople—

inscribed, “MY WIFE’S GRAVE. DO NOT

like neighbors you wave hello to—whether you

FORGET ME.” There is no name on the stone,

remember their names or not.

just a plea through time to have a loved one

—Gerry McGuire

2019 • Milford Living 53

greetings from milford

A real photo postcard for Miss Pauline wo years before this real photo postcard (RPPC) was taken in 1905, Kodak introduced a camera designed for postcard-sized film that

allowed photographers to have their images printed on postcard paper.

Was that the camera used to capture this quintessential study of Milford children in their Edwardian finery? One can assume that the postcard recipient, Miss Pauline Clark, was one of the subjects. Was October 14th a special day, celebrated with a photo that eventually made it into the mailbox of each of the school’s students?

There just wasn’t room to write more…it would be 1907 before senders were allowed to include messages on the back of postcards.

—Ann McGuire

54 Milford Living • Autumn

Get 4 issues of Milford Living for only $17.80!

Subscribe Today!

P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460 (203) 283-5290 www.milfordliving.com

# M i l f o r d L i v i n g

M i l f o r d L i v i n g

Milford is for

M ilfo rd

Living

is for Liv ing

Spring 2014

Au tu m n

Autumn, 2019 Vol. 16 Issue 3 $5.99

20 1 9

2019 • Milford Living 55

celebrations

Braces are cool...but the results are cooler!

Philip A. Caporusso D.M.D • 1 Golden Hill Street, Milford • 203-874-5400 • DrCapOrtho.com

56 Milford Living • Autumn

ROBERT CREIGH

M

ilford celebrates the installation of the color changing fountain in downtown Milford. Purchased

by Richie Conine of Stonebridge Restaurant this fountain serves in memory of Stonebridge chef Thomas Brockert.

Thanks to all those who made this colorful addition to Milford’s vibrant downtown.

WHY SUNMED?

OFFERING A WIDE SELECTION OF CBD PRODUCTS:

Oil Tinctures Water Solubles Gummies Soft Gel Capsules E-Liquids for Vaping Topical Creams Pet Products & more.

SunMed products have been sourced and developed with the highest quality industrial hemp derived extract available on the market today. Our stringent quality control process ensures that what goes into our bottle is the best possible quality to deliver the best possible results for you and your family. From extraction to finished goods, we combine third-party test facilities with our in-house Ph.D. scientists to track every step.

SunMed products are grown using organic processes, non-GMO, and farmed in the USA. While most zero-THC products in the industry use an isolated CBD molecule or a “flat-lined” CBD-only distillate, our proprietary extraction process results in a flagship product that is rich in minor cannabinoids, including CBC, CBG, CBN, and CBD-V. These minor cannabinoids in our products are so concentrated that they show up in the testing of the final goods. Following the removal of THC, we introduce a proprietary blend of plant based terpenes known to increase the efficacy of cannabinoids due to the “entourage effect.”

SunFlora.org

Here at Your CBD Store, we carry only SunMed products as they are the best quality available on the market today.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON!

Your CBD Store Milford location | 203-301-0033 972 Boston Post Road | Milford CT

Across from the Shoprite & Starbucks plaza conveniently open 7 days a week

expressions

To Honor and Remember It’s inspiring to see flags of all sizes proudly displayed around town, especially around Veteran’s Day. Be sure to thank a Vet! Photographer: Robert Creigh

62 Milford Living • Autumn

FRIDAY OCTOBER 25 LEANN RIMES

10-25-2019

KISHI BASHI

THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS

11-1-2019

ANDREW SCHULZ

11-14-2019

11-3-2019

UPCOMING SHOWS FRI 10/11 – RICK ROBERTS & LARRY BURNETT (OF FIREFALL) SAT 10/19 – BACK IN BLACK – TRIBUTE TO AC/DC LA’S BACKSTAGE PASS FRI 10/25 - LEANN RIMES FRI 11/1 – KISHI BASHI SAT 11/2 – THE GARCIA PROJECT

BACK IN BLACK

10-19-2019

SUN 11/3 – THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS

TIFFANY

FRI 11/8 – GET BACK! THE BEATLES REUNION

11-15-2019

THU 11/14 – ANDREW SCHULZ (COMEDIAN) FRI 11/15 – TIFFANY SUN 11/17 – RIPE: FALL TOUR 2019

CASTLECOMER

SAT 11/30 – CHRIS COLLINS AND BOULDER CANYON’S

JOHN DENVER CHRISTMAS SHOW

THU 12/5 – MESSAGES FROM HEAVEN

AN EVENING WITH ANNA RAIMONDI FRI 12/20 – ALPACA GNOMES

RICK ROBERTS & LARRY BURNETT (OF FIREFALL)

10-11-2019

SAT 12/21 – GOOSE SUN 1/12 – ROB SCHNEIDER (COMEDIAN)

@WALLSTREETTHEATER

RIPE

11-17-2019

WALLST_THEATER

71 WALL STREET, NORWALK CT | 203.831.5004 | WALLSTREETTHEATER.COM

?

where is it?

Answer to last issue’s quiz:

The bird habitat sign features in the last issue can be found at the Milford Point Coastal Center – Connecticut Audubon Society.

Do you know the answer to this issue’s Where is It? Want to win a Milford Living T-Shirt?

Send your answer to this issue’s Where is It? (along with your name and address) to: suzanne@milfordliving.com Two lucky winners will be chosen at random.

BILL CANFIELD

Send us your answer at: suzanne@milfordliving.com

Voted 2019 “Top Dentists” — Connecticut Magazine

Kristin Helms • Mitchell Quintner • Alex Quintner • Meenakshi Madhu • Michael Wiener • Ian Gibbs • DMDs

55 Old Gate Lane, Milford, CT • 203-872-5911 • SensitiveCare.net 64 Milford Living • Autumn

Grand Opening Milford, CT November 7th!

150 Boston Post Rd., Milford, CT

SIGN UP TODAY & Start Saving on Opening Day! Sign Up for your Big Y® Silver Savings Club® card and your myBigY Digital Account ALL AT ONCE and receive Exclusive Digital-ONLY myBigY Offers...

Download the myBigY App or visit bigy.com to create your digital account for the first time.

Click the “Available Offers”in your myBigY Dashboard Start Saving in Milford when we open on Nov. 7th!

ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF A myBigY DIGITAL ACCOUNT WEEK AFTER WEEK...

• myBigY Weekly Offers • Recommended Flyer Items • myBigY One Day Hot Sales • Personalized Savings • Digital Coupons • Access Your Digital Card

To Create Your myBigY Account, Download the App or Go to bigy.com!

ONE SCAN COULD

SAVE YOUR LIFE

SCHEDULE YOUR SCAN TODAY

(203)882-VEIN (8346)