May 22, 2013

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Hadlyme Public Hall Annual Meeting Votes to Oppose Doubling Ferry Fares, Launches Petition Drive

May 12, 2013 by
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The Hadlyme Public Hall Association has started a petition drive against the Connecticut River ferries fare increase.

On Saturday May 4, members attending the annual meeting of the Hadlyme Public Hall Association voted unanimously to oppose the proposal by Connecticut  Department of Transportation (DOT) to double the Connecticut River ferry fares to $6 and agreed to launch a petition drive opposing the fare increase.

The Association immediately initiated the petition drive by creating an on-line petition at SignOn.org.  Click here to add your name to the petition.

Paper petitions will also be circulated throughout the communities served by the two Connecticut River ferries — the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry and the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry.

All the petitions will be presented to the state DOT officials who will be making the decision on whether to raise the fares and by how much.

The position adopted by the members at the meeting states that the Association opposes the state’s proposal to double the fares and instead urges the state to give serious consider to other alternatives that could increase revenues, including:

– Increasing posted fare prices but provide a discount for cars with Connecticut license plates.

– Institute a system of On-peak & Off-peak pricing (similar to that used by commuter railroads) that would charge higher fares on weekends and holidays when there are usually long lines of cars waiting to ride the ferries.

– Increase hours of operation on weekends and holidays to take advantage of generating more fares when ridership demand is the highest.

– In addition to the current discount ticket books, offer a flat “annual pass” fare with a sticker to place on cars to identify those who have purchased the pass.

– Working with state tourism and parks agencies, aggressively promote both Connecticut River ferries to tourists and visitors.

Connecticut DOT will be holding public hearings on the proposed fare increases on May 20 and 22.

Hadlyme Hall Association President Curt Michael urged all those conerned about or affected by the proposed fare increase to sign the petition and to attend the public hearings.

Click here for more info on the fare increase proposal and the public hearings

Hadlyme Public Hall Association is a century-old not-for-profit community organization whose membership is open to all. Its current membership represents more 140 households in Hadlyme and the surrounding area.
For more information about the Association and its historic public hall, visit www.hadlymehall. com

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Giuliano, Ziobron Exploring Options for Ferry Revenue

May 12, 2013 by

HARTFORD — With operating expenses exceeding income, a recent Department of Transportation plan to double fees for the two Connecticut River ferries is being met with opposition from residents along the river valley.

The state DOT wants to increase fares from $3 to $6 for vehicles and from $1 to $2 to walk-on passengers. The discount coupon book that currently goes for $40 for 20 tickets would be doubled to $80. With the ferries running at a deficit of about $650,000, the DOT says this plan will help keep both ferries viable and open.

But residents worry such a steep increase will drive ridership down and ultimately lead to the closure of Connecticut’s historic ferries. State Representatives Marilyn Giuliano (R- Old Saybrook) and Melissa Ziobron (R- East Haddam) are working with local and state officials to look for possible alternatives to doubling the fees.

“We have to be careful not to make short-sighted decisions that have the opposite of the intended result,” Giuliano said. “Doubling the fees might make sense on a balance sheet but, in practice, could be harmful to the bottom line- we need to look at all possibilities.”

“People in this region are passionate about the ferries and they play an important role in tourism including for Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam,” Ziobron added. “We have to do our due diligence to make sure we have explored all our options before we simply double the fees. This has to be an ‘all of the above’ approach.”

Giuliano and Ziobron have arranged to speak with local stakeholders and the Department of Transportation Commissioner to discuss various alternatives to the proposed fee increases.

DOT plans to hold hearings on the fare increases this month. On May 20th there is a hearing in the Rocky Hill Community Center and on May 22nd there will be a hearing at the Chester Meeting House. Both begin at 6:30pm. Giuliano and Ziobron said they would like to attend the meeting in Chester but will likely be held up in legislative session in Hartford.

Anyone wishing to speak with them regarding the proposed rate increases can feel free to call their office at 1-800-842-1423 or send an email to Marilyn.Giuliano@housegop.ct.gov or Melissa.Ziobron@housegop.ct.gov

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Letter: Senator Linares, Gun Control, and the NRA: More Transparency Needed

May 12, 2013 by

To the Editor:

The Valley News Now (April 26) quotes Senator Linares at length in remarks before a recent seniors’ luncheon of the Estuary Council explaining why he voted against the Newtown gun control law.  In my opinion, Mr. Linares’s remarks are unconvincing.  They set a standard of glib analysis that hopefully will not characterize his future votes in office. Equally important, Mr. Linares’s remarks leave me wondering whether he has told us the whole story of his “ no” vote. The News reports that he did not volunteer his explanation, but only responded to questions after having  “consented” to a discussion.  Mr. Linares’s web site does not mention his vote.  Why is that, on an issue of such importance to his constituents?

Mr. Linares is quoted by the News as saying he “did not have a chance to read the bill.”  This is hard to credit.  The new law is largely the work of the Bipartisan Task Force on Gun Violence Prevention and Children’s Safety established last January – of which Mr. Linares was a member from the beginning.  The Task Force took extensive testimony, and legislative proposals began to emerge from it as early as the beginning of March.  The members of the Task Force then reportedly met behind closed doors to negotiate the legislation for two months before emerging in early April with a bipartisan proposal. Is it possible that Senator Linares was still clueless after participating in such a process?

The News quotes Mr. Linares as saying that the legislation “could create a black market” in guns. So what?  A black market in heroin “could be” the result of existing laws prohibiting that substance.  Mr. Linares does not, I assume, favor legalizing heroin. Taxes on cigarettes and regulatory restrictions on the production of pharmaceutical products arguably have fostered black markets in those products.  Does Mr. Linares support eliminating cigarette taxes or allowing the production of prescription drugs in substandard facilities? The answer to black markets is to enforce laws against them – not cave in.

Mr. Linares’s thought process in explaining his  “no” vote is so obscure he sometimes seems to speak in riddles.  He is quoted as saying, for example, that his concern was for police officers.  He reasons that taking guns away from common citizens could have the effect of being “dangerous to law enforcement officers.”  What does he mean by this?  How can it be good for the police, let alone the rest of us, to allow every Tom, Dick, and Harry, irrespective of mental instability or terrorist proclivities, to have access to military style weapons?  Mr. Linares does not explain.

Mr. Linares claims that “most guns are used for self defense”. This seems doubtful. I would guess that “most guns” are used for hunting or target practice.  Still, if Mr. Linares is correct that ”most guns are used for self defense,” perhaps it is because folks are returning fire — in which case it might also be true that “most guns are used in violent crime.”  In any event, Mr. Linares’s observation is irrelevant because the legislation does not ban “most guns” in Connecticut, but only a small subset of them, specifically some 100 types of assault weapons and large capacity ammunition magazines.

Few would contest Mr. Linares assertion that citizens should have the “right to defend themselves.”  However, that is not the issue presented by the Newtown legislation, which leaves intact an individual’s access to a huge variety of guns.  The issue presented by Newtown is whether we as citizens also have a right to gather in public places without the nagging fear of being attacked by an unstable, violent few bearing arms of such great destructive force that they properly belong in the military for our collective defense.

A few weeks after he voted “no” on the Newtown legislation, Mr. Linares posted a piece on his web site entitled “what I’ve heard in my first 100 days as State Senator.” There is no mention of Newtown.  Instead, Mr. Linares speaks forcefully against fiscal irresponsibility and wasteful government spending.  Is it not wasteful to spend scarce taxpayer dollars on the compensation of elected officials who do not have the  time to read important legislation and yet proceed on the basis of superficial analysis to vote against it?

In the meantime, well over a month after the enactment of the Newtown legislation, Mr. Linares still has not posted on his official website an explanation of his reasons for voting no.  I respectfully call upon him to do so now.  This is important to the transparency of his position.  All of Mr. Linares’s constituents have the right to know his reasoning, not only those who happened to attend the seniors’ luncheon at the Estuary Council.

In the context of such disclosure, it would be helpful if Mr. Linares would also clarify his dealings with the National Rifle Association.  According to the non-partisan voter education organization “Project Vote Smart”( www.votesmart.org), Mr. Linares last year was accorded a 92% approval rating by the political action committee of the National Rifle Association.  This entity, known as the “NRA Political Victory Fund” (NRA PVF), is the campaign finance arm of the NRA.  The 92% approval rating given Mr. Linares apparently was the highest accorded any member of the Connecticut General Assembly (shared with only a distinct minority of his colleagues). The NRA PVF website in turn states that it “ranks political candidates – irrespective of party affiliation – based on voting records, public statements and their responses to an NRA-PVF questionnaire.”

Since Mr. Linares had no voting record on gun control at the time of his 92% ranking in 2012, and his public statements on this issue have in my experience proven elusive, it would be reasonable to assume that Mr. Linares’s stellar NRA ranking was the result of his answers to their questionnaire.  Those answers in turn hold the key to understanding what standard Mr. Linares applied when he told the seniors’ luncheon that the Newtown legislation “ went too far and was too extreme.”

The issue now is whether Mr. Linares will be as forthcoming to his constituents as he apparently has been to the NRA.  Towards this end, I call upon Mr. Linares to publish on his web site his responses to the NRA questionnaire together with any other information he has provided to the NRA that would shed light on his gun control views.  This would help his constituents understand whether it was the Newtown legislation, or Mr. Linares’s own position, which “went too far and was too extreme.”

Sincerely,

David Harfst
Essex

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Former Lyme-Old Lyme High School Principal Takes Top Job in Old Saybrook

April 26, 2013 by
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Jan Guarino, the newly-appointed Old Saybrook Public Schools Superintendent.

Jan Guarino, who served as principal at Lyme-Old Lyme High School for six years from 2003 to 2009, has been appointed superintendent of Old Saybrook Public Schools.  Guarino is currently assistant school superintendent for personnel at Wallingford Public Schools, the position to which she moved when she left Region 18.

Guarino, who was known as Guarino-Rhone during her tenure at Lyme-Old Lyme Public Schools, will start her job in Old Saybrook on July 1 of this year.

Click to read a more detailed story on Guarino’s appointment written by Eric Vo and published in MyRecordJournal.com on April 24.

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Letter: Linares’s Vote Against Gun Control, Contrary to Majority of Constituent’s Wishes, Requires Explanation

April 26, 2013 by

To The Editor:

I write to thank LymeLine, ValleyNewsNow and OldSaybrookNow for their coverage of Senator Linares’s recent vote against the gun control law enacted by the Connecticut Legislature with broad bipartisan support following the Newtown massacre.

Mr. Linares’s constituents have a right to know the reasons for his opposition, given the undeniable support in his district for child safety, the strong endorsement of the bill across party lines, and the uncertainty as to what credible alternative Mr. Linares is offering.

However, while the coverage of Senator Linares’s “no” vote is helpful, it was not altogether satisfying.  The article reports that Mr. Linares issued a statement which “concluded the bill does not address the most important problems”.  But it does not tell us how Mr. Linares reached that conclusion or what measures he would advocate instead.

Senator Linares reportedly said that he decided to vote against the gun law “after talking to many residents of the 33rd district”.  If Mr. Linares means to suggest that his vote reflects the majority of his constituents’ views, I would guess that claim is almost certainly preposterous. To my knowledge, Mr. Linares never conducted a hearing on the issue in his district, and the extensive testimony he heard as a member of the Newtown Task Force led other legislators to broad bipartisan support for the measure.  The true basis of Mr. Linares’s position remains a mystery.

Mr. Linares’s official website sheds no light on the matter either.  As of today, April 19 – over two weeks after the bill’s enactment – Mr. Linares’s web site does not even mention his vote, let alone carry the statement described by the Valley News.  Instead, when one consults the web site’s “in the news” section, one learns that in the aftermath of the legislation, Mr. Linares spent his time commending kindergartners for helping others, extolling the Haddam Shad Museum, and “high fiving” intermediate school students on tour of the State capitol.

One need not begrudge Senator Linares his “feel good” press releases or his energetic attempts to have them covered in the  local press, no matter how modest the content. (See, for example, the 10 or so articles appearing in ValleyNewsNow since mid January extensively covering among other things Mr. Linares participation in various meetings, his tours of local factories, and even his attendance at someone else’s press conference)  But they are not a substitute for keeping his district informed of what he is actually doing in Hartford and why.

The public’s right to know our representatives positions is not a partisan issue.  It applies left, right and center. Again, the  Newtown legislation is being cited as a model of bipartisan cooperation worthy of emulation at the national level. Residents of the 33rd District, whether they be Republican, Democrats, or Independents, deserve to understand why Mr. Linares took an outlier position on this historic legislation

Sincerely,

David Harfst,
Essex.

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Rossini’s Version of “Cinderella” at The Kate – May 12

April 26, 2013 by

Salt Marsh Opera will present Gioachino Rossini’s (1792-1868) version of “Cinderella,” which he called “La Cenerentola” on Mother’s Day Sunday, May 12th at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 2:00 p.m., 300 Main Street in Old Saybrook.  This one-hour opera will be sung in English, and is perfect for families.  Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children under fourteen.  Call The Kate Box Office at 877-503-1286.

“Give me a laundry list and I will set it to music,” boasted Rossini, who composed “La Cenerentola” at the age of twenty-four.  He was also a famous wit and bon viveur.

Rossini practically gave up composing for the last thirty years of his life, except for some late piano pieces called “Sins of Old Age.”  They have titles such as “Radishes,” “Gherkins” and “Butter.”

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History in Motion Parade, Celebrating Clinton’s 350 years of History – May 4

April 19, 2013 by
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Cyclists taking part in the first Clinton BikeFest last year (photo bu Andrea Reu)

Dust off your bicycles, lace up your walking shoes, hitch up the wagon, or saddle the horse – it’s just a few days ’til Clinton’s History in Motion parade! Come as Abraham Pierson, Jared Eliot, George Washington (did he really sleep here?!), or come as yourself. It’s all part of Clinton’s colorful history. Help us reach our goal of 350+ people marching 350 years of Clinton’s history down Main Street. Register now!’

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Henry Tarryk, seen here driving his horse and carriage, will be taking part in the parade

For registration forms and more information, go to bikeandpedestrianalliance.wordpress.com.
When: Saturday, May 4th, check-in begins at 9:30 am, parade begins at 11 am.

Where: Start at Post Office Square, end at Clinton Town Beach

Parking: Town Hall and public parking behind Main Street businesses

Registration Fee: students/children $1, adults $3

Organized by: Bike & Pedestrian Alliance of Clinton (BPAC)

Contact: Debbie Lundgren, 860-669-1077, lundgren10@comcast.net

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Lyme Academy College Hosts ‘Salsa Night’ at the Old Lyme Inn, April 25

April 19, 2013 by

hotsalsadancing-netStep front, step back and sway at the Salsa Night being hosted by Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts on Thursday, April 25, at the Old Lyme Inn from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.   This will be one of the first events to be held in the Old Lyme Inn’s soon-to-be-opened Jazz Club.

Join us at this Cuban-themed reception to get yourself in the mood for the College’s major fundraiser of the year to be held Saturday, June 1, when Miami comes to Old Lyme in the form of “ArtsBall Miami: Art & Attitude.”

Get in the Miami groove with salsa rhythms and tropical treats as professional dancers show off their moves … or teach you how to develop yours!  No prior salsa dancing experience is required and it will certainly be a great skill to have on hand for the ArtsBall Miami!

Dancers from the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Old Saybrook will not only be helping us learn the steps but they are also donating a $15 gift certificate to each guest towards a further lesson at their studios.

The Old Lyme Inn will be open for dinner after the event should you wish to stay a little longer at this delightful location.

Reservations are required and limited to 50 guests, so reserve your seat now.  Tickets are $35 per person and include mojitos, sangria and Cuban-style hors d’oeuvres.  A cash bar will also available.

Reservations can be made by calling Ann de Selding at 860.434.3571 ext. 117 or emailing her at adeselding@lymeacademy.edu. Deadline is April 18, 2013.

Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts continues the academic tradition of figurative and representational fine art while preparing students for a lifetime of contemporary creative practice. The College offers the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Drawing, Illustration, Painting, and Sculpture (full- and part-time study); Certificates in Painting and Sculpture, a Post-Baccalaureate program; Continuing Education for adults; and a Pre-College Program for students aged 15-18.

Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the National Association of the Schools of Art and Design, and the Connecticut Department of Higher Education.

The College is located at 84 Lyme Street, Old Lyme CT 06371.  For more information, call 860-434-5232 or visit www.lymeacademy.edu 

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Talking Transportation: Cruise Ships: The Devils on The Deep Blue Sea

April 15, 2013 by

Jim CameronIn the eight years I’ve been writing this column I’ve never found a reason to write about cruise ships, one of my favorite ways to travel.

Since my Dad took me as a passenger on freighters through the Caribbean when I was a kid right up to our now-annual cruises to the same area, I’ve always loved the high seas.  There’s nothing easier than driving to the pier in New York City, hopping on board and kicking back for a week.

A few years ago my fascination with cruising brought me to a great book, “Devils on the Deep Blue Sea” by Kristoffer Garin which detailed the formative years of the cruise industry, especially the start-up of Carnival Cruise Lines in 1972.  It was a rough start, but today Carnival owns 10 cruise lines (almost half the cruise ships in the world) including Cunard, Holland America, Costa, P&O, Princess and Seabourn.  At one point they even had their own airline ferrying passengers to Miami and San Juan, their biggest embarkation ports.

By segmenting the cruise market, just as hotels do, they offer everything from singles-filled party cruises to upscale trans-Atlantic “crossings” on the Queen Mary 2 (which is where I was while reading Garin’s book in 2006).

But more recently Carnival’s had some very bad PR.  Last year it was crash of the Costa Concordia in Italy (whose Captain abandoned ship).  Then, the February stranding of the 4,000-person Triumph for days in the Gulf of Mexico (without power, food or sanitation) was just the latest in a series of engineering problems.  Last week another ship, Fascination, failed a Center for Disease Control (CDC) health inspection, the fourth of their ships to do so this year alone.

Last week demand for cabins was so low that Carnival was offering cruises for $38 a night per person … less than the cost at Motel 6.   And that price includes all meals (assuming those CDC inspections don’t hurt your appetite).

Admittedly, this is a weak time of year for cruising, but Carnival knows it’s always best to sail with a full ship and make money on the booze and ship excursions.

In my view, the real problem isn’t Carnival or its ships’ safety, but the fact that they pay no taxes … and yet, depend on the US Coast Guard for their numerous rescues.

Micky Arison, son of the founder of Carnival (and owner of the Miami Heat), is the richest man in Florida.  Last year Carnival brought in $15.3 billion in revenues.  But they paid just 0.6% in US, state, local and international taxes last year while socking taxpayers for millions in US Coast Guard expenses for 90 different rescue missions in the last five years.

Senator Jay Rockefeller says Arison is a “cheater… treacherous and wrong” and wrote him asking to do the right thing and pay-up.  Carnival declined the invitation, prompting Rockefeller (the Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee) to call their response “shameful”.

Shameful, perhaps.  But perfectly legal and the result, even Rockefeller admits, of sloppiness by Congress.  So, expect some grandstanding, a few hearings and maybe some face-saving philanthropy by Arison.   But don’t expect many changes in the cruise industry, especially in higher fares that reflect the true cost of being a “devil on the deep blue seas”.

JIM CAMERON has been a commuter out of Darien for 22 years.  He is Chairman of the CT Metro-North / Shore Line East Rail Commuter Council, and a member of the Coastal Corridor TIA and the Darien RTM.  You can reach him at CTRailCommuterCouncil@gmail.com or www.trainweb.org/ct .  For a full collection of “Talking Transportation” columns, see www.talkingtransportation.blogspot.com

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Annual Fire House Food Drive for Shoreline Soup Kitchens – Apr. 27

April 15, 2013 by

firetruck thuumbFor the second year, area fire departments have agreed to host an area-wide food drive to collect much needed food to be distributed to area residents needing help in putting food on their tables.

The stations will be open to receive donations of non-perishable food on Saturday 27 April from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  All food donated will go to the five local Shoreline Soup Kitchens and Pantries.

Participating fire stations include:  Old Saybrook Station, Essex Fire Fire Station, Clinton Fire Station, Old Lyme Fire Station, Killingworth Fire Station, Westbrook Fire Station, Niantic Fire Station.

At a time of year when donations are typically low, this food will restock the pantries and ensure that everyone in our communities will have a place at the table.

Please join the effort, either by donating food, holding a food drive within your neighborhood, workplace or club or volunteering to help at the event.

The most needed items are as follows:

  • Canned Meats (tuna, chicken, salmon)
  • Canned Fruits & Vegetables
  • Peanut Butter
  • Canned & Boxed Meals (soup, chili, stew, macaroni & cheese)
  • Canned or Dried Beans (black, pinto, kidney, lentils)
  • Pasta & Rice
  • Cereal (low sugar, high fiber)

To ensure food safety, the following items cannot be accepted:

  • Rusty or Unlabeled Cans
  • Perishable Item.
  • Homemade Items
  • Noncommercial Packaged Items
  • Noncommercial Canned Items
  • Alcoholic Beverages & Mixes
  • Open or Used Items

For more information on how you can help, contact Phyllis at 860-388-1988 or pcappuccio@shorelinesoupkitchens.org. or visit www.shorelinesoupkitchens.org.

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DOT Plans to Double CT River Ferry Fares, Announces Meetings to Discuss Proposals

April 12, 2013 by
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) announced April 5 that it will be holding two public meetings regarding plans to raise the fares on the two Connecticut River Ferries starting July 1, 2013.  The ferries affected are the Chester-Hadlyme and Rocky Hill-Glastonbury routes.
DOT says in a press release that the increases are necessary to offset the rising operating costs that have occurred over the years.  Fares have not been raised since 2003.
Under the proposal, effective July 1, vehicle fares will be increased from the current $3 per crossing to $6.   Fares for walk-on passengers and bicyclists will be increased from $1 per crossing to $2.  The price of the Discount Coupon Book that now costs $40 for a book of 20 coupon tickets (a 33 percent savings) will be increased to $80 (also a 33 percent savings).

“We are committed to maintaining the ferry operations serving tourists, commuters, pedestrians and bicyclists alike,” stated Commissioner James P. Redeker.  “Raising the fares has been carefully considered.  Fare increases are never popular, but costs for operating the ferries have consistently been significantly greater than passenger revenues, resulting in a state subsidy of $651,000 in the most recent fiscal year.”

The two public meetings on the fare increases will be held:

  • May 20, 6:30 pm – 9:00 p.m., Rocky Hill Community Center, Room 1
  • May 22, 6:30 pm – 9:00 p.m., Chester Meeting House

Commissioner Redeker noted that a Strategic Business Plan was developed in consultation with the Connecticut River Ferry Task Force, a group of concerned citizens.  Several of the recommendations from that effort have been implemented.  The Department is installing new road signs that will direct the public to the “Historic Connecticut River Ferry.”  Significantly, new environmentally compliant engines were installed in both the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry and the -Hadlyme Ferry during the 2012-2013 winter maintenance period.

The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry began its season on Monday, April 1, and will run through Nov. 30.  The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry season is from May 1 to Oct. 31.

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Exchange Program Seeks Host Families for International Students

April 9, 2013 by

ASSE International Student Exchange Programs (ASSE) is seeking local host families for boys and girls from a variety of countries around the world. These students are 15 to 18 years of age, and are coming to this area for the upcoming high school year or semester.  These personable and academically select exchange students have good English, are bright, curious and anxious to learn about the USA by living as part of a family, attending high school and sharing their own culture and language.

The exchange students arrive from their home country shortly before school begins and return at the end of the school year or semester.  Each ASSE student is fully insured, brings his or her own personal spending money and expects to bear his or her share of household responsibilities, as well as being included in normal family activities and lifestyles.

The students are well screened and qualified by ASSE.  Families may select the youngster of their choice from extensive student applications, family photos and biographical essays.

To become a host family or find out more about ASSE and its programs, call Joyce 207-737-4666 or 1-800-677-2773 or visit www.asse.com.  There are many students from which to choose — Area Representatives also sought.

 Editor’s Note: ASSE International is a nonprofit 501.c.3 educational and cultural exchange organization headquartered in Laguna Beach, California.  ASSE promotes global learning and leadership by offering a unique, richly personal experience for students, volunteer families, host high schools and local communities. ASSE reaches across interpersonal and international borders, celebrating worldwide community through the spirit, character and promise of our youth.

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Community Invited to Pick Up Trash to Support Old Saybrook’s ‘Green Up’ Day, April 27

April 8, 2013 by

Join the first annual town wide Old Saybrook ‘Green Up’ Day on Saturday, April 27, from 8 a.m. to noon.  This is a great opportunity to get out and see friends and neighbors, help spruce up the town for the season, and remove the trash left by the recent storms and litterbugs.

For added social networking, start your trash journey with the ‘Green Up’ send-off celebration, 8 a.m. on the green and disperse from there to clean up the roadside litter.  Whether starting from the green, or working in your own neighborhood, bring filled garbage bags to one of several designated drop-off locations: the Green, Clark Memorial Park (Town Park) or the Town Beach Parking Lot.

Free garbage bags will be available at those locations as well.  Public works will collect bags left by the side of the road on Monday, April 29, but to reduce their workload, bringing them to one of the designated areas is preferred.

There are many community activities taking place April 27, why not bring along a bag or two and look for trash on your way to baseball, the fishing derby, the Seaside Shuffle or the Fire Department/SSKP food drive?  Every can, bottle, bag and fast food container picked up is one less item that will end up in Long Island Sound.

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Chester-Hadlyme Ferry Resumes Operations for 244th Year

April 4, 2013 by
John Marshall, captain of the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, shows off one of two new John Deere 205-HP engines installed in the 60-year-old Selden III ferry over the winter by CT Department of Transportation.

John Marshall, captain of the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, shows off one of two new John Deere 205-HP engines installed in the 60-year-old Selden III ferry over the winter by CT Department of Transportation.

The historic Chester-Hadlyme Ferry resumed service Monday for its 244th year with a “First Sailing” party organized by the Hadlyme Public Hall Association, which spearheaded a campaign two years ago to save the ferry service from state budget cuts.

A number of Department of Transport officials from Hartford attended the event to help celebrate the installation of the engines.

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Talking Transportation: Gov Malloy Seeks To Kill the Commuter Council

March 19, 2013 by

Jim CameronShortly after he came to office, I wrote something critical of newly elected Governor Malloy.  Nothing new there.  I’d certainly questioned Republican governors in years past, usually to little response.  But this time the reaction was different.

A Malloy confidant, a senior State Senator from Fairfield County, took me aside and threatened me.  Not physically, but legislatively.  “You know, we could eliminate the Commuter Rail Council if you keep this up,” he said in Machiavellian tones.  “Bring it on,” I said, half-shocked at this political threat.

Well, it took a couple of years (and more criticism), but the threat has come true.  The Governor has submitted a bill (HB 6363) that would wipe out the existing Metro-North Commuter Rail Council and its 15 members.  In its place, a new Council would be appointed and the Governor, not the members of the Council, would choose its Chairman.

Further, the new Commuter Council’s mandate would turn from investigation and advocacy on behalf of fellow commuters to a PR advisor to the CDOT.  While the current Council has the power to request information and is required to receive cooperation from any state or local agency, that power would be eliminated under Malloy’s bill.

The Commuter Council isn’t the only pro-transportation group affected by the bill.  The CT Public Transportation Commission would also be eliminated along with the last vestiges of the Transportation Strategy Board (killed off by Malloy last year), the TIA’s, or “Transportation Investment Areas”.

This obvious power-grab by the Governor has so far gone unchallenged in the legislature, buried in a 66-page Christmas tree of a bill.  If it becomes law, my 15+ years as a member of the Commuter Council (the last four as its Chairman) will be history.

But why is the Metro-North Commuter Council singled out for such harsh treatment?

It’s not that the Commuter Council has been wasting state money.  We operate on a budget of zero dollars, even dipping into our own pockets to pay for design of a logo and pay for postage.  And I don’t think it can be argued that we haven’t been doing our jobs… meeting monthly with Metro-North and the CDOT to address commuter complaints and push for ever better service.

No, I think the real problem is that we’ve done our job too well, calling out CDOT, the legislature and yes, even the Governor, when they did things that we felt screwed commuters.  That’s our mandate.

I guess Governor Malloy didn’t like it when we pointed out that as a gubernatorial candidate he promised to never raid the Special Transportation Fund to balance the state’s budget, but then did just that when he took office.  And I guess he wasn’t happy when I noted that his budget took new fare increases from Metro-North riders but didn’t spend the money on trains, in effect making the fare hike a “commuter tax”.

And I’d imagine the Commissioner of the CDOT… the fifth Commissioner in my 15+ years on the Council… would be happy to see the current Council gone, critical as we have been about their Stamford Garage project which we see as selling out the interests of commuters to private developers.

It’s sad that the Governor feels the way to answer legitimate criticism is to eviscerate those who question him.  But I can promise you that his proposed elimination of the Metro-North Commuter Council won’t silence me.  Bring it on, Governor.

JIM CAMERON has been a commuter out of Darien for 22 years.  He is Chairman of the CT Metro-North / Shore Line East Rail Commuter Council, and a member of the Coastal Corridor TIA and the Darien RTM.  You can reach him at CTRailCommuterCouncil@gmail.com or www.trainweb.org/ct .  For a full collection of “Talking Transportation” columns, see www.talkingtransportation.blogspot.com

Filed Under: News, Transportation

Local Swimmers Give Stellar Performances in State Championships

March 15, 2013 by
Valley Shore YMCA Age Group Qualifiers include Liam Leavy, Jessica Lee, Peter Fuchs, Nick Husted in the back row, and Anna Lang, Maddy Henderson, Kayla Mendonca, Kyle Wisialowski and Kaeleigh O’Donnell in the front row.

Valley Shore YMCA Age Group Qualifiers include Liam Leavy, Jessica Lee, Peter Fuchs, Nick Husted in the back row, and Anna Lang, Maddy Henderson, Kayla Mendonca, Kyle Wisialowski and Kaeleigh O’Donnell in the front row.

Throughout the weekend of March 8-10, 11 athletes training at Valley Shore YMCA (VSYMCA) in Westbrook competed at Connecticut Swimming’s Age Group Championships.  This event is the state championship for age group swimming.

In the 10 and under age group, four girls (Kaeleigh O’Donnell of Essex, Kayla Mendonca, Anna Lang and Maddy Henderson- all from Madison) competed in individual events as well as teaming up for the medley relay where they finished fifth.  Kayla Mendonca of Madison set two team records in distance freestyle events; the 200 yard freestyle and the 500 yard freestyle.  Kayla also reset her own team record in the 100 butterfly.

In the highest finish of the meet, Kayla finished 3rd in the 500 freestyle, qualifying her to continue on to represent her state in Eastern Zone competition.  In her first year on the swim team, Anna Lang was proud to qualify for this prestigious event and swam the 50 free.  Kaeleigh O’Donnell swam the 100 yard breast stroke finishing 30th.  Maddy Henderson qualified in two backstroke events (50 yard and 100 yard) finishing 11th and 23rd.  Maddy also swam the 50 butterfly finishing 23rd.

The 10 and under girls were joined by two 10 and under boys, Daniel Chen of Madison and Kyle Wisialowski of Old Saybrook.  Dan, not having chosen his favorite stroke yet,  competed in every stroke excluding freestyle, and also both the 100 and 200 medley.  Dan’s 7th place finish in the 50 backstroke was among the best finishes on the team.  This was Kyle’s first appearance at Age Group Championships (in the 50 yard butterfly) after a winning performance at Regional Championships.

In the 12 and under age group, Liam Leavy (Ivoryton) was the only VSYMCA swimmer, but proud to boast his first age group qualification in the 50 backstroke.

The under 14 age group category boasted Mike Healey (Madison).  Mike swam the signature sprint event in swimming; the 50 freestyle as well as the 50 backstroke.  Mike also excels at the individual medley and swam both the 200 medley, and the 400 medley, widely thought to be swimming’s most grueling event.

In the 15 and up age group, the team fielded three senior members; freestylers Nick Husted (Westbrook) and Jessica Lee, as well as breaststroker Peter Fuchs both of Old Lyme.  Jessica had a top finish in the 50 freestyle, finishing in fifth place. Jessica also made the evening final in the 100 yard freestyle, finishing in 15th place.  This bodes well for Jessica’s next competition at the Y National Championships on April 3 in Greensboro, N.C.  Peter Fuchs set the team record in the 200 yard breaststroke.

Those interested in joining the swim team are encouraged to obtain more information about the Long Course season by visiting www.vsymarlins.org or calling the Valley Shore YMCA at 860 399-9622. Tryouts will be held in mid-April for the season which runs through to Long Course Age Group Championships in late July.

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Filed Under: News, Sport

Sen. Art Linares Honors Shoreline Student Artists at Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts

March 11, 2013 by
from left to right: Sen. Art Linares, Future Choices Co-Chair Kathleen Bidney-Singewald, Future Choices Co-Chair Ruth Baxter, student award winner Dai Yongzheng of Westbrook-based Oxford Academy, and Shoreline Arts Alliance Executive Director/CEO Eric Dillner.

From left to right: Sen. Art Linares, Future Choices Co-Chair Kathleen Bidney-Singewald, Future Choices Co-Chair Ruth Baxter, student award winner Dai Yongzheng of Westbrook-based Oxford Academy, and Shoreline Arts Alliance Executive Director/CEO Eric Dillner.

Sen. Art Linares presented official State of Connecticut citations to outstanding high school art students from the shoreline region during the Shoreline Arts Alliance’s Future Choices awards reception March 10 at the Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts’ Sill House Gallery. The art exhibition offers students the experience of being juried by experts in the arts and exhibiting in a professional gallery setting.

Students who reside or attend school in the shoreline region were eligible to submit works for the competition. Towns include: Branford, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Haven, East Lyme, Essex, Guilford, Haddam, Killingworth, Lyme, Madison, Middlefield, North Branford, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Salem, Westbrook.

Shoreline Arts Alliance Executive Director/CEO Eric Dillner, Sen. Art Linares, and Lyme Academy of Fine Arts President Scott Colley chat prior to the awards ceremony.

Shoreline Arts Alliance Executive Director/CEO Eric Dillner, Sen. Art Linares, and Lyme Academy of Fine Arts President Scott Colley chat prior to the awards ceremony.

“These young artists have tremendous talents, and it was my pleasure to help honor them,” Sen. Linares said.  “The support and encouragement these students have received from our communities has allowed them to thrive.”

Sen. Art Linares (www.senatorlinares.com) represents Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook. He can be reached at Art.Linares@cga.ct.gov or at (800) 842 1421.

Filed Under: Arts, News

Local Land Conservation Trusts Announce Winners of Annual Photo Contest

March 11, 2013 by
The winner of the 2012 John G. Mitchell – Environmental Conservation Award is Mark Roger Bailey of California, formerly of Essex.

The winner of the 2012 John G. Mitchell – Environmental Conservation Award is Mark Roger Bailey of California, formerly of Essex.

The Lyme, Old Lyme, Salem, Essex and East Haddam Land Conservation Trusts announced today the winners of their jointly sponsored amateur photo contest. The purpose of the contest was to focus on the celebrated and scenic countryside in those towns and its diversified wildlife. The ages of the photographers ranged from children to senior citizens.

This contest was made possible by the generous financial support provided by Lorensen Toyota, Oakley/Wing Group at Smith Barney, Evan Griswold at Coldwell Banker, Essex Savings Bank, ChelseaGroton Bank, Ballek Garden Center and Murtha Cullina LLP.

“There were so many wonderful pictures submitted that the judges had a difficult time selecting the winners” said Tony Sullivan, spokesperson for the conservation trusts.

The three independent judges are William Burt, a naturalist who has won acclaim for his books of wildlife photography: Rare and Elusive Birds of North America, Shadowbirds, and his recently released Marshes: The Disappearing Edens. Amy Kurtz Lansing, Curator at the Florence Griswold Museum and a Yale University doctoral candidate in the History of Art. She is also the author of Historical Fictions: Edward Lamson Henry’s Paintings of Past and Present and Rudy Wood-Muller, a photographic illustrator and designer. His first large exhibition was at the New York World’s Fair in 1964 and was followed by numerous other shows, including a one-man show at the Rochester Institute of Technology. A group of his photographs have been selected to be part of the Permanent Collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

“This year an additional award was given out to honor one of our prior judges, John G. Mitchell, who passed away” said Sullivan. “John, who was one of the editors at National Geographic, dedicated his career to writing about the environment and conservation, so the award was for the best picture reflecting that subject.”

The categories and names of the winners are:

JOHN G. MITCHELL – Environmental Conservation Award

Mark Roger Bailey, California (Formerly Essex)

LANDSCAPES/WATERSCAPES

First Place:  
Skip Broom, Hadlyme

Second Place: 
April Surprenant, Salem

Third Place: 
Alexandria Hollwedel, Ivoryton

Honorable Mentions: 
Tom Nemeth, Salem
John Sargent, Quaker Hill
Gerry Graves, Old Lyme

PLANTS

First Place: 
Tony Sullivan, Lyme

Second Place:
Cheryl Philopena

Third Place: 
Skip Broom, Hadlyme

Honorable Mentions: 
Jessica Nemeth, Salem
Linda Waters, Salem
Marian Morrissette, New London

WILDLIFE

First Place:  
Skip Broom, Hadlyme

Second Place: 
Harcourt Davis, Old Lyme

Third Place: 
Cheryl Philopena, Salem

Honorable Mentions:  
Marian Morrissette, New London
Hank Golet, Old Lyme
Mark Roger Bailey, Essex

CULTURAL/HISTORIC

First Place: 
Skip Broom, Hadlyme

Second Place:  
Carol Giese, East Lyme

Third Place:  
Mark Roger Bailey, California (Formally Essex)

Honorable Mentions:  
Lionel Williams, Essex
Jacquelyn Sanders, Old Lyme
Donald Quigley, Old Lyme

YOUTH

First Place:  
Emma Pennie, Old Lyme

Second Place: 
Meghan Buckley, Haddam

Third Place: 
Courtney Briggs, Old Saybrook

Honorable Mentions:  
Rebecca Johnson, Colchester
Samantha Barretta, Lyme
Hanna Potter, Old Lyme

All the winning photographs will be available for public viewing at Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library at 2 Library Lane in Old Lyme during the month of April. The photos can also be seen at http://landtrustsphotos.shutterfly.com/ or on the web sites of each of the sponsoring conservation trusts.

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Filed Under: News

Sen. Linares, Lyme, Deep River Leaders to Fight Property Tax Hikes

March 4, 2013 by
Sen. Art Linares, Lyme First Selectman and COST Board Member Ralph Eno, Deep River First Selectman and COST President Richard Smith, and Rep. Phil Miller.

Sen. Art Linares, Lyme First Selectman and COST Board Member Ralph Eno, Deep River First Selectman and COST President Richard Smith, and Rep. Phil Miller.

At a March 4 press conference at the State Capitol complex, the Connecticut Council of Small Towns (COST) voiced opposition to the governor’s car tax plan.

Mayors and first selectmen discussed how the plan would cause municipalities to lose millions of dollars in tax revenue and be forced to make up for that loss in other ways, namely through increased local property taxes.

Sen. Art Linares (www.senatorlinares.com) was among those supporting the town leaders at the press conference.  “No one likes paying the car tax and we’d all like to see it eliminated,” Sen. Linares said.  “But the plan that is before the state legislature would lead to higher property taxes for everyone.  The bottom line is that we simply can’t afford higher taxes.  By working together and speaking with one voice, we can put this car tax plan in the breakdown lane.”

Filed Under: News, Politics

Sen. Art Linares Meets With Deep River Taxpayers

February 21, 2013 by
Sen. Art Linares (center) speaks with a taxpayers at his Feb. 20 Town Hall Meeting in Deep River. Sen. Linares’ next Town Hall Meeting will be Tuesday Feb. 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Portland Senior Center, 7 Waverly Ave.

Sen. Art Linares (center) speaks with a taxpayers at his Feb. 20 Town Hall Meeting in Deep River. Sen. Linares’ next Town Hall Meeting will be Tuesday Feb. 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Portland Senior Center, 7 Waverly Ave.

On Wednesday, Feb. 20, State Sen. Art Linares held a 90-minute Town Hall Meeting at Deep River Town Hall.

The meeting, which was attended by about 20 taxpayers, allowed area residents to question Sen. Linares about the state budget and discuss his efforts to make Connecticut more business-friendly.

“We had an excellent discussion, and I thank Deep River taxpayers for stopping by,” Sen. Linares said.  “For those who could not attend, feel free to contact me with any questions you have about taxes, spending, or any topics you wish to discuss.  I can be reached at Art.Linares@cga.ct.gov or at 800 842 1421.”

Residents may sign up for Sen. Linares’ State Capitol e-alerts at www.senatorlinares.com .  His next Town Hall Meeting will be Tuesday Feb. 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Portland Senior Center, 7 Waverly Ave.

Sen. Linares represents Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook.

Filed Under: News, Politics

Linares – Working to Grow Latino Businesses

February 4, 2013 by
State Sen. Art Linares (left) at the State Capitol complex with former Hartford State Rep. Art Feltman (center) and Spanish American Merchants Association (SAMA) Executive Director Julio Mendoza (at right)

State Sen. Art Linares (left) at the State Capitol complex with former Hartford State Rep. Art Feltman (center) and Spanish American Merchants Association (SAMA) Executive Director Julio Mendoza (at right)

State Sen. Art Linares on Feb. 4 met at the State Capitol complex with former Hartford State Rep. Art Feltman  and Spanish American Merchants Association (SAMA) Executive Director Julio Mendoza to discuss policies which can help Connecticut small businesses grow jobs.

Sen. Linares is trying to make Connecticut more business-friendly by eliminating the state’s business entity tax, which is currently paid by more than 118,000 Connecticut businesses.

The Spanish American Merchants Association (www.samact.org), is a Connecticut non-profit organization created to assist business people, in particular Latinos, to acquire a better understanding of economic principles. The organization seeks to promote business expansion, job creation, economic growth, and new entrepreneurship. The group now boasts the membership of more than 500 Hispanic business owners and organizations statewide.

Sen. Linares  (www.senatorlinares.com) can be reached at Art.Linares@cga.ct.gov or at 800 842 1421.  He represents Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook.

Filed Under: News, Politics

Special Fund Established at the Acton Public Library

January 16, 2013 by

The Acton Public Library is pleased to announce that the Ernest Bernstein Honor with Books Fund has been established with a generous gift from Barbara Bernstein, as a way to acknowledge her late husband’s love of learning and libraries.  This fund will be used to purchase books on the German Holocaust.   Individuals who wish to contribute to this fund can memorialize or celebrate a special person, and donations can be made in honor of friends and family members.

When a gift is made, the donor and honoree will be listed in a special Honor with Books Fund book, which will be on permanent display in the library.  Books purchased through this fund will receive a bookplate to indicate that they were acquired through this fund.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to this fund can make a contribution to the Acton Public Library, with a notation indicating that it is for the Honor With Books Fund.

For more information, please contact Michele Van Epps, Library Director, at the Acton Public Library.  The library’s address is 60 Old Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook,  CT  06475.  The phone number is 860-395-3184.

Filed Under: Arts, News

Shoreline Bus Usage Continues to Grow

January 7, 2013 by

9 town transit bus2Once again 9 Town Transit has seen large growth in ridership.  Extended service hours, regional connections, new service in Haddam and improved awareness contributed to growth of 15% during 2012.

Since 2009, 9 Town Transit has greatly expanded the reach and hours of its services.  Public bus service is now available from the shoreline to New Haven, New London, Middletown and Hartford, all for a fare of $1.50.   Most services now begin around 6:00 AM and end at 7:00 PM or later.  Connections are offered to four neighboring transit systems.

In addition to service improvements, 9 Town Transit has been actively promoting awareness of public transit options in the region.  This has included a new website, brightly painted buses, bus stop signage throughout the region, print advertising and participations in community events.

These factors contributed to a total annual ridership of just under 98,500 passenger trips, an 83% increase since 2009.  About half of all trips are now work related.  All services are open to the general public.

Additional information, route maps and schedules are available online at www.9towntransit.com or by calling 9 Town Transit at 860-510-0429.

Filed Under: News

Palette Knife Artist Jill Beecher Matthew Exhibition at Acton Public Library

December 12, 2012 by
Storm Brewing Outer Banks by Jill Beecher Matthew

Storm Brewing Outer Banks by Jill Beecher Matthew

Paintings by artist Jill Beecher Matthew are featured in an exhibit at the Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Road in Old Saybrook from December 10 through January 19.

Having studied with Noel Belton, Leif Nilsson, Lois Griffel, and The Cape School of art, Matthew uses palette knives and oil paints to enrich her art with texture and color clarity. Her paintings are an expression of her lifelong love for art and nature and her favorite backdrop is the magnificent New England landscape. Matthew is a resident of Old Lyme. Her paintings will be on exhibit in both the main gallery on the first floor of the library, and the display space on the second floor.

For further information, please call 860-395-3184, or visit the library during regular hours: Monday through Thursday 10–8:30, Friday and Saturday 9—5, and Sunday 1—5.

Filed Under: News

First Season of St. John School Lego Robotics Club

December 12, 2012 by

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Old Saybrook’s St. John School new LEGO Robotics Club ready to show off their first season’s activities at a recent school assembly. The students shared a slide show about the FIRST LEGO League, a research presentation of an idea to help senior citizens with accurate medicine dispensing, and their LEGO MINDSTORMS Robot solving numerous obstacle course challenges.”

Filed Under: News

Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce Announces Best of 2012 Awards

December 12, 2012 by
(L-R): Judy Sullivan, Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Lisa Miksis, Publisher – Shore Publishing, Kristen Roberts, Chamber of Commerce President

(L-R): Judy Sullivan, Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Lisa Miksis, Publisher – Shore Publishing, Kristen Roberts, Chamber of Commerce President

Four annual Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce Awards were presented to deserving members at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner Meeting & Silent Auction held Thursday December 6, 2010 at the Saybrook Point Inn.   Over 120 members enjoyed the evening celebrating the Chamber’s 2012 accomplishments.  The 2012 Award recipients are:

  • Business of the Year – Shore Publishing, 274 Boston Post Road, Madison
  • Non-Profit of the Year – Old Saybrook Youth & Family Services., 322 Main Street, Old Saybrook
  • Volunteer of the Year – Rich Bachand, Tarlov Financial, Ivortyon
  • Rookie of the Year – Tom Salvo, Barnum Financial Group, Guilford

“The Old Saybrook Chamber is very proud of our 2012 award winners.   These four recipients exemplify commitment and dedication to the Chamber and the community,” said Judy Sullivan, Executive Director of the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about the Old Saybrook of Commerce and its programs, visit www.oldsaybrookchamber.com.

(L-R): Sam Barnes, Youth & Family Services Commission Chair, Heather McNeil, Youth & Family Services Director

(L-R): Sam Barnes, Youth & Family Services Commission Chair, Heather McNeil, Youth & Family Services Director

 

Filed Under: News

Estuary Council of Seniors Partners with Local Car Dealer to “Share the Love” this Holiday Season

December 12, 2012 by
Hayden Reynolds, his daughter, Lilly and his father, Gary; three generations of the Reynolds family, personally delivered Meals on Wheels in Lyme.

Hayden Reynolds, his daughter, Lilly and his father, Gary; three generations of the Reynolds family, personally delivered Meals on Wheels in Lyme.

The Estuary Council of Seniors, Inc. Partners with Reynolds Subaru of Lyme, CT to “Share the Love” this Holiday Season.  Subaru’s “Share the Love” event helps deliver nutritious meals and compassion to Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Old Lyme, Lyme, Killingworth, Madison, Essex, Deep River, Clinton and Chester’s seniors.

The Estuary Council of Seniors, Inc. is proud to announce it has partnered with Reynolds Subaru of Lyme this holiday season to deliver meals to seniors in all ten towns and to provide awareness of the funding needs for senior nutrition. Since June 2010, The Estuary’s senior nutrition budget has been cut $102,000. Last year the Estuary provided 60,000 meals to seniors in the ten town area. The “Share the Love” campaign kicked off on November 21st with the three generations of the Reynolds family participating. Hayden Reynolds, his daughter, Lilly and his father, Gary; three generations of the Reynolds family, personally delivered meals in Lyme. Reynolds Subaru has loaned The Estuary a Subaru car for daily meal delivery throughout the six-week campaign. The Reynolds family has been serving the shoreline for over 150 years, they started back in 1859 with horse drawn carriages, today the 6th generation of the Reynolds provides his community with Subaru’s for a safe and reliable all wheel drive vehicle.

Each week thereafter through the holidays Reynolds Sales, Parts and Service staff as well as local Rotary Clubs and the First Selectmen of our ten towns will also visit seniors delivering meals. Local Girl Scout and Boy Scout Troops from the shoreline towns are making holiday cards which they will deliver to each senior along with their meal and a Christmas plant the week before Christmas. Christmas plants are being donated by Clinton Nurseries and Grove Gardens of Clinton, Riggio’s of Essex, VanWilgens of North Branford and the Old Saybrook Walmart store. This local effort is part of the Meals on Wheels Association of America’s (MOWAA) participation in the national Subaru of America, Inc. “Share the Love” Event.

As one of the five Subaru “Share the Love” event charitable partners, the Meals on Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) is awarding $200,000 in “Share the Love” grants to local Meals on Wheels programs that partner with Subaru dealerships in the fight to end senior hunger. The Estuary Council of Seniors, Inc. is eligible to win a MOWAA-Subaru “Share the Love” grant of up to $35,000 to help provide hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors in all ten towns it serves. Hayden Reynolds is spearheading a “matching funds competition” and hopes that many other local businesses will join him. If you are interested in providing a tax deductible financial match or a partial match to the grant they hope will be awarded to The Estuary Council of Seniors please contact Sandy at 860 388-1611.

“We are honored to be part of ‘Share the Love’ for a fifth straight year,” said MOWAA Interim CEO, Larry J. Tomayko. “Subaru recognizes the importance of giving back to the communities it serves. Working together, MOWAA and Subaru are helping to provide more than just a meal; we’re bringing warmth and compassion to so many hungry and homebound seniors who would otherwise go without.” The Subaru “Share the Love” Event runs from November 21, 2012 to January 2, 2013. Subaru is donating $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased during “Share the Love” to the customer’s choice of one of five charities, including MOWAA’s Meals on Wheels. Over the past four years, proceeds from the Subaru “Share the Love” Event have provided funds to MOWAA to support its vision to end senior hunger by 2020.

The Meals on Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) is the only national organization and network dedicated solely to ending senior hunger in America. MOWAA is the oldest and largest organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in all 50 states as well as the U.S. territories. MOWAA’s vision is to end senior hunger by 2020. To obtain more information about MOWAA or to locate a local Meals on Wheels program, visit the MOWAA website at www.mowaa.org

Filed Under: News

Old Saybrook Board of Ed Receives Board of Distinction Award

November 30, 2012 by

Connecticut Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor displays the Board of Distinction Award for the Old Saybrook Board of Education

OLD SAYBROOK-  The Old Saybrook Board of Education was presented with the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE) Level 2 Board of Distinction Award during the annual CABE / CAPSS (Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents) Convention held at the Mystic Marriott on Friday, November 16th.

The CABE Board Recognition Awards are designed recognize boards which provide effective leadership to their districts through the use of good practices. This program which acknowledging the importance of school board members and superintendents working together as effective teams continues an important trend among school boards associations across the country.

CABE Board of Distinction Award – Level Two recognizes Boards which are truly exemplary. To be eligible for this higher level of award, the Board must have achieved Level One distinction at least twice in the past four years. Boards must achieve at least two Level Two items in each Level Two category to receive this award.

The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE) serves local and regional school districts in Connecticut and is dedicated to improving the quality of education throughout the state and the nation. CABE’s membership includes 145 school districts representing 90 % of the state’s public school population. CABE is a leading advocate for public education at the State Capitol and in Washington D. C., and offers many types of support services to local boards of education including the Board Member Academy, a continuing education program for local board of education members.

The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS) is a statewide nonprofit educational administration organization whose membership includes Connecticut public school superintendents, assistant superintendents, central office administrative personnel, state department of education officials, and college and university professors. It provides educational and administrative leadership on a state and national level; it researches, gathers, and disseminates data and information necessary for the management and operation of effective school systems; it monitors state and federal legislative activity and strives to influence positive laws and regulations affecting the education of Connecticut’s public school students; it provides personal support services for its members; it holds statewide conferences of interest to the educational community; and it is a strong voice and staunch advocate of quality public school education.

Filed Under: News

Letter: Stillman Would Make an Excellent Representative

October 19, 2012 by

To the Editor:

Adam Stillman would make an excellent representative for the 23rd District.  Adam has an energy that is needed in the State House an energy that would help get needed legislation passed.    Adam has lived in Old Saybrook for many years, is  a practicing attorney, a former Democratic Town Chairman and is a current member of the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Adam is a strong supporter of women’s rights especially the right to choose.   Adam’s  unwavering support is what sets him apart from other politicians,  his answer is the same regardless of his audience.

As the Democratic Town Committee Chairman, Adam Stillman recognized many town residents had questions concerning the last town property assessment.   Seeing a need he organized a seminar open to all town residents to explain the how ‘s and why’s.  It was an informative and well attended meeting.  Residents were allowed to ask questions and quest speakers familiar with assessments were on hand to answer  questions.    This was a non- political event to educate and explain a process to residents that were confused and concerned.

This is a recurring theme with Adam if he sees a need he tries to find a solution.  Choice of life care for seniors is another example.  Adam strongly defends protecting a senior’s choice of life care and he has promised to author the legislation to address this issue.

This is the kind of energy and care we need to see in our state representatives.  Support Adam Stillman for the 23rd District.

Sincerely,

Janis L. Est
Old Saybrook, Ct.

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Adam Stillman – Fresh Perspective

October 19, 2012 by

To the Editor:

This letter is written in support of Adam Stillman for state representative and I encourage you to vote for him this November 6th. Restricted to 300 words, I can’t tell you about all his innovative ideas to revitalize the local economy. What I’m going to tell you is that I soundly believe Adam is the candidate who’s offering fresh ideas and proposals to extricate us from our existing economic disaster, and I urge everyone to become more familiar with his campaign (AdamStillman2012.com).

Adam is a candidate who’s not afraid to work in a bi-partisan manner, as he does with the Zoning Board of Appeals.  Adam embraces any suggestion if he believes it will improve our economy. He does not support tax increases, but relies on spending reallocation to resolve our debt crisis and improve our financial outlook.  He supports a mix of small and large scale business support to reach short term and long range financial goals.

The point I’d like the reader to recognize is that our current economic condition is the product of decades of the same policies and leadership. There are always new candidates offering the same rhetoric, which results in the same economic problems. Adam Stillman offers a fresh perspective, innovating thinking and a plan for re-establishing economic strength to Connecticut.

On Election Day, Adam Stillman is my selection for representation from the 23rd district and I encourage your readers to support his modern vision for our future.

Sincerely,

Selectman Steven Gernhardt
Old Saybrook

 

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Rotary Helps Eradicate Polio

October 19, 2012 by

For 20 years, Rotary clubs have remained determined to do whatever is necessary to achieve a world free of the crippling disease polio. Recognizing this commitment – as well as Rotary’s important role as a spearheading partner in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, the United Nations and the World Health Assembly have partnered with Rotary to completely eradicate polio by the end of 2012.

Rotary’s chief responsibilities in the initiative are fundraising and advocacy, a role of increasing importance as the end game draws near. Sixty-one Rotary clubs in Fairfield, Litchfield, Middlesex and New London counties have embraced this effort by using Thunderclap, a Social Media tool which enables supporters to sign up to share a single message simultaneously across all supporting accounts on World Polio Day, October 24, 2012 to raise awareness of the fight to end this crippling disease. In addition, these clubs have provided an army of volunteers to promote and assist at national immunization days in polio-endemic countries around the world. Connecticut State Governor, Dannel Malloy will be issuing a proclamation on October 24, 2012, in support of End Polio Day.

“When Rotary first started the fight against polio in 1985, the disease affected 350,000 people every year in 125 countries. Since then, polio has been reduced by 99%. We are “This Close” to ending polio,” says Brian Amey, Governor, Rotary District 7980.

Rotary, which already has contributed $1.2 billion to stop this crippling childhood disease, announced its new funding commitment in New York City on Sept. 27 during a special side-event on polio eradication convened by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon during the 67th Session of the UN General Assembly. Earlier this year, Rotary raised $228 million in new money for polio eradication in response to a $355 million challenge grant from the Gates Foundation, which promptly contributed an additional $50 million in recognition of Rotary’s commitment.

Polio cases have plummeted by more than 99 percent since 1988, when the disease infected about 350,000 children a year. Fewer than 700 new cases were reported in 2011. Rotary and its partners have reached more than 2.5 billion children with the oral polio vaccine, preventing more than five million cases of paralysis and hundreds of thousands of pediatric deaths.

To learn how you can participate in this historic opportunity to end polio once and for all, please visit rotary.org/endpolio.

The 61 clubs in twelve areas of District 7980 are part of a much larger organization-Rotary International (www.rotary.org). Rotary International is made up of 34,000 clubs in 200 countries and geographical areas with over 1.2 million members. The organization works to help the world’s needy people and to further world peace and understanding as evidenced by its unique role as a founding member of the United Nations, retaining a permanent seat on the General Council. The Rotary International Foundation invests each year in humanitarian and educational projects throughout the world. The area clubs support many of these programs such as the Polio Eradication program, the Haitian Health Foundation and Clean Water Projects in South India and Ghana.

Filed Under: News

Old Saybrook Garden Club Honored by First Selectman

October 18, 2012 by

Old Saybrook First Selectman, Carl P. Fortuna, Jr. (center), presents a proclamation to Mary Roche (on his immediate right), president of the Old Saybrook Garden Club, honoring the club’s 60 years of service to the community. Also attending the ceremony were seven former club presidents (left to right): Carol Voigt, Judy Grover, Lee Merritt, Norma Dyson, Erma Gimbel, Dorothy Alexander, and Betty Harris

Old Saybrook’s First Selectman, Carl P. Fortuna, Jr., in a brief ceremony at Town Hall on October 3, presented a proclamation to the Old Saybrook Garden Club in recognition of its 60 years of service to the community. Club president, Mary Roche, received the proclamation on behalf of the club. Also attending were seven former presidents: Dorothy Alexander, Norma Dyson, Erma Gimbel, Judy Grover, Betty Harris, Lee Merritt, and Carol Voigt. Another former president, Lajla Hanes, was unable to attend.

The proclamation reads: “Whereas, the Old Saybrook Garden Club was founded in 1952 by Mrs. Allen Talcott, and is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year; Whereas, the Town of Old Saybrook takes great pride in recognizing the success of the Garden Club and the 36 active members that participate in countless projects that help beautify and enrich our community; Whereas, the Old Saybrook Garden Club contributes financial support by awarding a scholarship of $1,000, each year, to an Old Saybrook High School or college student studying in the field; Whereas, the Garden Club’s signature project is the Main Street Median plantings and every spring members plan, plant and tend the 23 planters and every holiday season decorate with lighted trees and wreaths; Now therefore, I, Carl P. Fortuna, Jr., First Selectman of the Town of Old Saybrook, hereby proclaim my appreciation to the Old Saybrook  Garden Club and honor their volunteerism, commitment and philanthropy to our community. Dated this third day of October, 2012, at Old Saybrook Connecticut.” The framed proclamation is signed by Mr. Fortuna and decorated with a gold seal embossed with the town’s coat-of-arms.
In addition, Mr. Fortuna presented Ms. Roche with a beautiful framed photograph of the Japanese magnolia tree in bloom on the Town Green, where each May the club holds its Gardeners’ Market–the plant sale, tag sale, and bake sale that pays for the club’s many civic projects. The picture is to be passed on to each new club president.

Filed Under: News

Letter: Giuliano is a “Get Things Done” Legislator

October 13, 2012 by

To the Editor:

A few weeks ago State Rep. Marilyn Giuliano spoke to Indiantown Beach residents regarding the Coastal Management Act and how it impacts those of us who live near the water. Marilyn is part of a coalition of shoreline/LIS legislators who took a leadership role in preventing extremely restrictive changes to that act from DEEP bureaucrats. It’s nice to know that we have a state representative who is looking out for our interests.

Rep. Giuliano is a hard worker, a “get things done” legislator, and a leader in the General Assembly. She’s informed, intelligent, and caring, just the sort of person whom we need at the State Capitol. Marilyn, like so many of us, is outraged at the lawmakers and current governor who have raised taxes during the worst economic times, spent like there is “no tomorrow”, and at the end of all this taxing and spending, still have a large deficit. Let’s send her back to Hartford along with other Republicans running for State Senate (Art Linares (OSHS District) and Mike Doyle (Middle School District) so we can stop this disregard for our wallets.

Sincerely,

Pauline Kezer
Old Saybrook

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Witkins Shows Support for Giuliano

October 13, 2012 by

To the Editor:

Care to feel good when you leave the voting booth?  Are you interested in returning a top legislator to Hartford capable of working for all Connecticut citizens, while never forgetting about the needs of her Shoreline constituents?  Then join me in voting for Marilyn Giuliano and actually feel good on Election Day. Marilyn’s leadership qualities have been recognized within the Assembly and her stature in Hartford has grown substantially this last term. She is one of the State’s leading voices in sensible education reform, working hard to craft real, workable solutions, not jaunty slogans or windy arguments that end in red tape with no progress to show for it.  Feel like you’re actually doing something good for Connecticut and your communities and join me feeling great on Election Day as we return Marilyn Giuliano to Hartford.

Sincerely,

Jim Witkins,
Board Chair, Lyme/Old Lyme Schools

 

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Proud to Support Giuliano

October 13, 2012 by

To the Editor:

As a business owner I find it ever challenging in CT to grow my business and to meet the challenges of today. Marilyn has always been front and center whether it be fighting for education for our children, preserving our shoreline community or our military museum facilities. I first met Marilyn during her first term as state representative for Westbrook. It seemed no matter where I went there was Marilyn fighting for local businesses keeping tourism and the marina sector growing, to keep our taxes low. She helped improve our emergency response, and helped protect open spaces so we can keep the charm that makes our community great. I support her because she cares and really fights for our community.

She is someone who is always available, attends local chamber meetings, school events and local town meetings. If you email her, she’ll reply, and if you call, she will respond. That’s the type of leadership we need and we should all get behind her. My wife & I couldn’t be more proud to give someone of her integrity our support.

Sincerely,

Glenn and Christine Monroe,
Westbrook

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Giuliano Receives Support from Old Saybrook First Selectman

October 13, 2012 by

To the Editor:

I write this letter in support of State Representative Marilyn Giuliano for the House Assembly seat in the 23rd District.  I have known Marilyn for nearly fifteen years. Going back to her days on the Board of Finance here in Old Saybrook, Marilyn has always been a vigilant defender and advocate for the residents of Old Saybrook. Now as State Representative, Marilyn does the same for her District, which includes Old Lyme, Lyme, Old Saybrook and parts of Westbrook. In my prior position as Chairman of Old Saybrook’s Board of Finance and now as First Selectman, Marilyn is always available to speak to important issues affecting our Town and region.  She has continuously updated me on important legislation that affects or MIGHT affect our Town, giving the Town an opportunity to appropriate advocate for or against bills that could help or hurt our Town. Marilyn is famous for her citizen contact: I have been at numerous functions with Marilyn where one person after another approaches Marilyn and says: “Thanks for returning my call.” We are truly lucky to have such a dedicated public servant who represents our values here.  Whether the issue is jobs, the environment, education or transportation, Marilyn Giuliano is my choice for representation from the 23rd District.

Sincerely,

Carl Fortuna,
First Selectman, Old Saybrook

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Time to Elect a Candidate with Fresh Ideas

October 11, 2012 by

To the Editor:

I strongly support Adam Stillman for State Rep. and encourage others to vote for him this November. His opponent, Ms. Giuliano, has represented Old Saybrook for 10 years and it’s time to elect a candidate with fresh ideas.

Adam offers an original approach, which is what we need to break out from this economic crisis. As a leader of the Democratic Town Committee, he offered non-partisan programs, such as the Stroke workshop and the re-evaluation seminar, to educate the Old Saybrook community. Adam’s innovative ideas about revamping the economy, especially reviving the housing market, creating new industry and directly benefiting companies that expand their hiring here is movement in a new direction that we desperately need.

I proudly support his defense of women’s rights, marriage equality and senior’s rights. He has terrific ideas to protect the Preserve, an issue that has lingered over Old Saybrook and Westbrook for more than a decade without any resolution.

This November, I urge people to support a candidate who’s not afraid to offer inventive proposals in restoring economic vitality to Connecticut, while protecting our rights. Vote for Adam Stillman for State Representative.

Sincerely,

John Talbott
Old Saybrook

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Giuliano Sincere and Compassionate

October 5, 2012 by

To the Editor:

I am supporting Marilyn Giuliano for re-election in the 23 House District for your CT State Representative. I wish to address her excellent people skills. As I have gotten to know Marilyn more in the past three years I have observed and listened to her as she interacted with her constituents and fellow residents. I have developed a deeper appreciation of her abilities as an individual. She is an active listener, be it with a constituent who seeking information, or in need of help, a fellow taxpayer, voter or resident in the area. I have not heard her brush aside a request by saying, “My paraprofessional or my secretary will handle that for you”. Marilyn Giuliano is sincere and compassionate. She is current on events that affect our region or the State and in the Nation, offering this insight to the numerous meetings she attends weekly.

Marilyn is active in the support of our veterans. I have observed her participating in several functions including honoring Old Saybrook’s Commander Tony Mammola commemorating his life and vast contributions he made to our communities and his fellow veterans. Marilyn was also active in having an Old Saybrook resident, Hal Farrington, inducted into the 2011 CT Veterans Hall of Fame. Marilyn Giuliano has numerous accomplishments in her five terms as our State Representative, I have mentioned but a few.

I am supporting Marilyn Giuliano in the upcoming election in November and feel it is the right choice for my fellow residents of the district composed of Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook.

Sincerely,

Tom Stevenson
Old Saybrook, CT 

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Lyme First Selectman Supports Giuliano

October 5, 2012 by

To the Editor:

I am writing to endorse the candidacy of incumbent State Representative Marilyn Giuliano.

Marilyn is veteran legislator with leadership positions on a number of key committees. Her experience is invaluable. She has the ability to work with fellow legislators regardless of party affiliation to navigate legislative logjams and actually get things done –  a unique asset in short supply at the State Capitol.

I have served as Lyme’s First Selectman for more years than I can remember and during my tenure have never encountered a state representative who consistently delivers constituent service better than Marilyn Giuliano. From resolving unjustified billings from the State Labor Department for unemployment compensation claims to taking the lead to help speed the development of new town hall vault regulations, Marilyn has been in Lyme’s corner since the first day she took office.

In addition, she takes a proactive stance in order to determine constituent issues, contacting local officials for input to make sure their interests are effectively represented in Hartford.

Marilyn has earned and deserves another term in office. I urge voters to cast their ballots for her so that she may continue her outstanding work.

Sincerely,

Ralph Eno, 1st Selectman
Town of Lyme

 

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Giuliano- Knowledgeable, Approachable and Energetic

October 5, 2012 by

To the Editor:

As the former superintendent of schools in Westbrook, there have been many times over the last few years when I have contacted State Representative Marilyn Giuliano to get information about proposed bills, seek her assistance with a problem, or explain how our schools or community will be affected by proposed legislation.  Without fail, Marilyn responded personally and took the time to understand my viewpoint.  Whether by email, phone, or in person, Marilyn followed through with the information I needed.

Knowledgeable, approachable, and energetic, this lady is everywhere! Westbrook is a small portion of Connecticut House District 23, yet Marilyn Giuliano is unbelievably attentive to her Westbrook constituents, responding to requests to speak, honoring the service of members of our community, attending meetings, and representing our concerns in Hartford.

Marilyn does her homework.  I know she spent many hours talking to educational colleagues and fellow legislators on the education committee before voting on the education reform bill.  Mrs. Giuliano met with parents, students and community members, and held public forums to gain input.  She asks good questions and tells you where she stands on the issues.

Marilyn Giuliano is someone you can put on your “go-to list” when you need a voice in Hartford.  I support her candidacy and the honorable work she does on behalf of Westbrook, Old Saybrook, Lyme and Old Lyme.

Sincerely,

Patricia Charles
Westbrook
Former superintendent of schools in Westbrook

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Marilyn has Worked Tirelessly for the Betterment of our Community

October 5, 2012 by

To The Editor:

For the past ten years, I have known and had the pleasure of working with our State Representative, Marilyn Giuliano.  Whether small business or small children, Marilyn has worked tirelessly for the betterment of our community.

Along with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, Marilyn hosted the first ever home-based business forum in Old Saybrook.  She co-sponsored the Small Business Express Package, in a special legislative session, to help many of our small businesses. She was also able to cut the business entity tax in half, and began to eliminate the governmental red tape that makes Connecticut so business unfriendly.

Marilyn also serves on the legislature’s Education Committee and was recently appointed serve on the Closing the Achievement Gap Task Force.  Earlier this year, the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance recognized Marilyn as a “Children’s Champion” for ushering legislation aimed at improving outcomes for young children, taking special interest in the issues facing young children, and engaging with advocates on early childhood issues.

Given Marilyn’s drive and dedication for and her experience with issues that concern the residents of Lyme, Old Lyme, Westbrook and Old Saybrook, I can think of no one better to serve as our State representative.

Sincerely,

David LaMay
Old Saybrook

Filed Under: Election, Letters

Letter: Community and Families will Benefit from Marilyn’s Work

October 5, 2012 by

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my support for Marilyn Giuliano as she seeks re-election as our State Representative this fall.  Marilyn is a coalition builder who is well known and well respected in the General Assembly.

I have been an educator in local school districts for the past 11 years and know how hard Marilyn works to ensure positive legislative changes for our schools.  Being an educator, she has real insight into what changes we need in order to see meaningful and lasting effects on our system of education.

I have been a resident of the town of Old Lyme for the past 11 years and have seen Marilyn partner with our town leaders on many local initiatives.  One example is the years of effort she put into securing funding for the Town Woods fields.  Those fields, playground, and other amenities are utilized 7 days a week by the youth in our community and they are a wonderful resource for the young people in many local towns.

Our community and its families will only continue to benefit from Marilyn’s work and advocacy for all of us as our State Representative.

Sincerely,

Allison Hine

65 Sill Lane,
Old Lyme

Filed Under: Election, Letters

New Fire Department Signs Help Locate Sprinkler System

September 17, 2012 by

The Children’s Tree Montessori school in Old Saybrook is the first business in town to post the new fire department stand pipe sign. The new signs will be popping up on businesses all over town to quickly show fire department members where to connect their firetruck to the buildings sprinkler system. For more information please contact the Old Saybrook fire department.

Filed Under: News

Essex Savings Bank Recycles Income to Non-profits

September 6, 2012 by

Essex, CT – Gregory R. Shook, President & CEO of Essex Savings Bank announced that non-profit community organizations will receive $102,250 from the Directors’ portion of the Bank’s Community Investment Program.  The Bank annually commits 10% of its after tax net income to qualifying organizations.  In April 2012, the Bank donated $76,698 to 94 non-profits who participated in the customer preference balloting at the Bank.  By year end 2012, $255,665 will have been allocated to over 200 organizations bringing the total distribution since the inception of the program in 1996 to $3,415,552.

The Directors’ portion of the fund will be donated to the following:

Camp Hazen YMCA (Chester)  $2,500

“Night at the Theatre” Benefit Gala to be held November 17, 2012

Camp Hazen YMCA (Chester) $2,500

2013 Healthy Kids Day Sponsor

The Chester Historical Society, Inc. (Chester)  $1,500

Toward underwriting cost of three newsletters and Annual Report.

Child & Family Agency of Southeastern Connecticut, Inc. (Essex)  $4,000

Toward funding of Agency newsletter and Annual Report.

Connecticut River Museum at Steamboat Dock (Essex)  $2,500

Benefactor Sponsor of the Fall Ball 2012 (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $5,000)

The Deep River Historical Society (Deep River) $1,500

Toward mailing of Society’s newsletters and flyers for special activities.

Essex Historical Society (Essex)    $1,500

To fund membership newsletter.

Essex Library Association (Essex) $1,500

Toward costs associated with Strategic Planning Process.

Essex Park & Recreation (Essex) $2,500

Toward Essex Basketball Center Project (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $5,000)

Essex Winter Series (Essex)$3,000

Principal Concert Sponsorship.

Estuary Council of Seniors, Inc. (ECSI) (Old Saybrook) $2,500

To underwrite portion of mailing expenses for monthly newsletter, “The Estuary Gazette”.

Florence Griswold Museum (Old Lyme) $1,750

“Major Donor” Reception (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $3,500)

Florence Griswold Museum (Old Lyme)  $5,000

“The Magic of Christmas” 2012 (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $10,000)

Goodspeed Musicals (Chester/East Haddam)$5,000

2012 “Supporting Sponsor” of spring production “Amazing Grace” at the Norma Terris Theatre

High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. (Old Lyme) $5,000

2012 Symphony Orchestra New England June 2012 (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $10,000)

High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. (Old Lyme) $2,000

To assist in underwriting cost of producing printed and electronic newsletters and maintenance and development of website during the 2012-2013 fiscal/academic year.

Ivoryton Village Alliance (Ivoryton/Essex)  $1,500

Assist funding for 2012 Ivoryton Illuminations held in December 2012

Katharine Hapburn Cultural Arts Center & Theatre (Old Saybrook) $5,000

“Producer Sponsor” for venue sponsor 2012-2013

Lawrence & Memorial Hospital (New London) $5,000

Donation to Centennial Campaign

Literacy Volunteers – Valley Shore, CT, Inc. (Essex)  $1,500

For publishing and mailing quarterly newsletter, “Tutor”.

Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts (Old Lyme)  $5,000

Signature Sponsor of the 2012 PopArts Ball held in June 2012 (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $10,000)

Lyme Art Association (Old Lyme)  $1,750

Presenting Sponsor of the 2012 New England Landscape Invitational Exhibition and Primary Sponsor of the Weekly E-Blasts (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $3,500)

Lyme Public Library, Inc. (Lyme)  $1,000

To fund annual cost of Library’s newsletter.

Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau (LYSB) (Old Lyme)$4,000

Toward funding of newsletter, “Youth Connections” both printed and on-line.

MacCurdy Salisbury Educational Foundation, Inc. (Old Lyme) $1,500

To fund newsletter, “Evelyn’s Wishes”.

The Madison Historical Society (Madison) $1,500

Toward underwriting costs of publishing the quarterly newsletter.

Middlesex County Community Foundation, Inc. (MCCF) (Middletown) $7,500

“15 Candles Anniversary Celebration – 15 Towns, 15 Years” to be held November 16, 2012 (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. –Total of $15,000)

Middlesex Hospital (Middletown) $5,000

Toward the new Shoreline Medical Center Campaign (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. – Total of $10,000)

Musical Masterworks, Inc. (Old Lyme) $1,250

Concert Co-Sponsor (Co-Sponsor with Essex Financial Services, Inc. Total of $2,500)

The Old Lyme-Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library Association, Inc. (Old Lyme) $1,500

For costs associated with two printings and mailings of newsletter.

Strong Center at the Surf Club, Inc. (Madison) $5,000

Toward renovations of the Strong Field at the Surf Club.

Tri-Town Youth Service Bureau, Inc. (Deep River)   $4,000

Toward printing and distribution of three issues of Agency newsletter.

Valley-Shore YMCA (Westbrook) $2,500

Toward sponsorship of  “Healthy Kids Day” 2013

Valley-Shore YMCA (Westbrook) $2,500

Toward the “After school Enrichment Program” for 2012-2013 school year.

Vista Vocational & Life Skills Center (Westbrook/Madison) $1,000

Toward sponsorship for the 2012 Vista Tour de Shore.

Essex Savings Bank is a FDIC insured, state chartered, mutual savings bank established in 1851.  The Bank serves the Connecticut River Valley and Shoreline with five offices in Essex (2), Madison, Old Lyme and Old Saybrook.  Financial, estate, insurance and retirement planning are offered throughout the state by the Bank’s Trust Department and subsidiary Essex Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC.  Investments in stocks, bonds, mutual funds and annuities are not FDIC insured, may lose value, are not a deposit, have no Bank guarantee and are not insured by any Federal Government Agency.

Filed Under: News

Far-Out Tunes That Make You Want to Groove – Opens Aug 9

July 24, 2012 by

CHESTER—   Goodspeed Musicals celebrates summer fun in the groovy production The Bikinis a new musical beach party.  This hip musical will run from August 9 to September 2 at The Norma Terris Theatre in Chester, Conn., Goodspeed’s home for developing new works.

Back together again! The sixties girl group that everyone loves is bringing back the sun, fun and all the great songs they sang on the boardwalk at the Jersey Shore…all to raise money to save Sandy Shores Mobile Home Beach Resort. These Jersey Girls relive their heyday in a non-stop celebration of song with over 30 hits like “It’s In His Kiss,” “Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,” “Heat Wave,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” The Bikinis are irresistible!

The Bikinis is written and created by James Hindman and Ray Roderick and features music arrangements by Joseph Baker.
Goodspeed Musicals, the first two-time Tony Award winning theatre in the country, is jazzed to announce the cast of The Bikinis.  This upcoming production will feature Lori Hammel playing Jodi.  Ms. Hammel appeared both on Broadway and in the National Tour of Mamma Mia!, and the National Tour of 9 to 5.  Annie will be played by Meghan Duffy who appeared in Broadway’s Grease and in the National Tours of The Rocky Horror Show and Mame.   Karla will be played by Karyn Quackenbush of Broadway’s Imaginary Friends, Annie Get Your Gun, and Blood Brothers, and the National Tours of Annie Get Your Gun; Stop The World, I Want to Get Off; and The Sound of Music.  Ms. Quackenbush was last seen Off Broadway in Nora and Delia Ephron’s Love, Loss And What I Wore. Karyn also appeared in Goodspeed’s Good Sports and Follow Thru.  Barbara will be played by Regina LeVert who appeared in the National Tour of Fame – The Musical.

The Bikinis is conceived and written by Ray Roderick and James Hindman.  Ray Roderick, who is also choreographing and directing the show, has directed numerous Goodspeed Opera House hits including the recent sensation Mame, Singin’ in the Rain, My One And Only,  and 42nd Street as well as last year’s Tin Pan Alley tuner Hello! My Baby at The Norma Terris Theatre. Mr. Roderick served as the Associate Director of the 2000 Broadway revival of The Music Man and co-conceived, directed, and choreographed the National Tour of Irving Berlin’s I Love A Piano.  James Hindman has acted in several Broadway hits including Mary Poppins, 1776, and City of Angels.

Music Arrangements are by Joseph Baker with additional music and lyrics by Joseph Baker and Ray Roderick. Lighting Design will be by Jason Lyons of Goodspeed’s Norma Terris productions The Unauthorized Autobiography of Samantha Brown and Cutman.  Mr. Lyons’ numerous Broadway credits include Bring It On: The Musical, Rock of Ages, The Threepenny Opera, Barefoot in the Park, and Good Vibrations.   Sound Design will be by Jay Hilton, who is in his 27th season at Goodspeed.
The Bikinis will be produced for Goodspeed Musicals by Michael P. Price.

The Bikinis will run August 9 – September 2, 2012. Curtain times are Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m, Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. (with the exception of August 9 which begins at 8:00 p.m.), Fridays at 8:00 p.m., Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are available through the Box Office (860.873.8668), open seven days a week, or on-line at www.goodspeed.org.  For show highlights, exclusive photos, special events, and more visit us at goodspeed.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Dedicated to the preservation and advancement of musical theatre, Goodspeed Musicals produces three musicals each season at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, Conn., and additional productions at The Norma Terris Theatre in Chester, Conn., which was opened in 1984 for the development of new musicals. The first regional theatre to receive two Tony Awards (for outstanding achievement), Goodspeed also maintains the Scherer Library of Musical Theatre and The Max Showalter Center for Education in Musical Theatre. Goodspeed gratefully acknowledges the support of our official audio sponsor Sennheiser Electronic Corporation. Goodspeed Musicals is supported in part by the Department of Economic and Community Development with support from the Connecticut Office of the Arts.

Filed Under: Old Events

How to prepare for a Walking Marathon – August 9

July 24, 2012 by

How should you prepare for a 26 mile walking marathon? You are invited to a TBBCF Walker Training Clinic.

If you want to walk a 6, 13 or 26 mile marathon, there are things you need to do to train for that length walk.  Come to Anytime Fitness, learn about walk training and footwear; take a local 2 mile fitness walk, and find out more about the Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Foundation (TBBCF) Walk Across Southeastern CT which will take place on October 6, 2012. Learn about walking as a team and about fundraising opportunities.

The walk training will take place on Thursday, August 9, 2011, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Anytime Fitness, 17 Liberty Way, Niantic, CT. For directions, visithttp://www.anytimefitness.com .  For more information about the TBBCF Walk Across Southeastern CT, visit www.tbbcf.org.  Please call 860-245-0402 to let us know you plan on attending or if you have any questions.

Filed Under: Old Events

Friends of Gillette Seeks New Officers

July 24, 2012 by

The Friends of Gillette Castle State Park, founded in 1998, needs a new president, some officers, and some committee chairs to continue its work in support of the park and the experiences of the some 200,000 visitors that enjoy it every year.

The next Friends meeting will be at the Castle Visitors Center at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday evening, August 9.

“We have a few general volunteers…but we need to portion out job and task descriptions to prevent too many duties from settling too hard on too few people,” said Friends’ newsletter editor John Stratton. “There are openings in activities like our Gift Shop, membership and website management, grant writing, our biannual Easter egg hunt, and as representatives for the park at events.”

The Friends efforts in past years have included funding for park-maintenance equipment, new display frames and cases, video equipment, and the display-restoration of an electric locomotive once used by Mr. William Gillette on his estate’s railway.

The Friends have also helped support a relationship with the East Haddam Stage Company, which this year has performances of “The Speckled Band,” a 1930 Radio Drama on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, July 7-August 12. In addition, the Friends’ volunteer advisors, Tyke and Teddie Niver, continue to re-enact the role of “Mr. and Mrs. Gillette” at the Castle and other events statewide.

 

Interested individuals are welcome to attend the August 9 meeting, and lend their ideas and assistance to the board.

Filed Under: News

Saybrook’s McAvoy Scores Hoop Dreams Scholarship

July 24, 2012 by

Old Saybrook senior, Kayla McAvoy, was the recipient of one of 12 Madison Hoop Dreams $500 scholarships which will help defray her expenses this fall as a freshman at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Kayla first attended the Madison Hoop Dreams Summer Camp as a fifth grader and continued through school vacation and summer sessions and eventually became part of the staff as an assistant coach and referee. “The combination of Kayla’s personality, intellect, and charm, earned her this scholarship,” stated co-director Bill Barker.

McAvoy, a 6’ center for the Old Saybrook High School Lady Rams, will be bringing to the WPI Lady Engineers an impressive high school record including being one of 5 players in the Lady Rams history to score 1000 points during her high school career.  The administration and staff of Madison Hoop Dreams and her Old Saybrook community wish her the best of luck as she takes this next step in her journey as a student and an athlete.

(Madison Hoop Dreams was founded 19 years ago, and is attended by campers in grades 2-10 from over 20 towns in Connecticut. The camp has become Connecticut’s most popular basketball day camp. Six years ago, the camp’s co-director Bill Barker, began awarding college scholarships and other charitable gifts from the camp’s profits.  At this point over $60,000.00 has been dispersed.)

Filed Under: News

Old Saybrook Garden Club Awards Scholarship

July 6, 2012 by

Betty O’Brien (left), Scholarship Chairman of the Old Saybrook Garden Club, awards the club’s 2012 prize to UConn freshman, Deanna Willbanks.

Deanna Willbanks, an environmental science major at the University of Connecticut, has been named the winner of the Old Saybrook Garden Club’s 2012 scholarship. Ms. Willbanks, a 2011 graduate of Old  Saybrook High School, earned a 3.92 grade-point average in her first semester at UConn while taking chemistry, calculus 2, and oceanography, among other courses–and while paying her own way through college and participating in many extra-curricular activities. “I am strongly interested in chemical waste disposal and toxicology,” says this high-achieving young woman, “…and hope my degree will lead  to a job with the DEP [Department of Environmental Quality] or the EPA [Environmental Protection Agency].”

The Old Saybrook Garden Club awards a $1,000 scholarship each year to an Old Saybrook resident who is studying or planning to study botany, city planning, conservation, forestry, horticulture, land management, landscape design, or environmental science at an accredited two- or four-year college of university.

Filed Under: News

Double Eagle Ceremony at Essex Troop 12

July 5, 2012 by

Dan Wohlmuth, left, of Essex and Gabriel Bacewicz of Old Saybrook are all smiles as they share the duties of cutting the cake after both were recognized for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout at Essex Troop 12 BSA during a recent ceremony at Centerbrook Meeting House. (Tony Bacewicz Photo)

Boy Scouts of America Troop 12 of Essex recently held a Court of Honor recognizing Gabriel A. Bacewicz and Daniel A.Wohlmuth who both attained the rank of Eagle Scout this year.  The event took place at Centerbrook Meeting House on June 29th and was attended by State Representative Philip J. Miller, State Representative Marilyn Giuliano, Selectman for the Town of Old Saybrook Scott Giegrich and BSA Mattabesett Trail District Advancement Representative Thomas Jump.

Scoutmaster John McGirr presided over the ceremony that was well attended by Troop 12 scouts, family members and friends.

Daniel Wohlmuth, son of Rosa and Carl Wohlmuth of Essex planned and supervised construction of an equestrian bridge at Cockaponset State Forest replacing a previous bridge that had been flooded out by beaver activity. The 32 foot long bridge was constructed with more than 200 volunteer hours and required multiple supports across a running stream to support the weight of a horse and rider. The bridge now enables both horse riders and hikers to traverse the trail without having to ford the stream. Dan is a class of 2012 graduate of Xavier High School and is enrolled at the University of Connecticut where he will pursue a degree in engineering.

Gabriel Bacewicz, son of Juliann and Anthony Bacewicz of Old Saybrook supervised the construction of a greenhouse and garden beds at the John Winthrop Middle School in Deep River that now serves the school’s food and life science programs and is being used by local Girl Scouts to raise vegetables for the local soup kitchen. Gabe is a class of 2012 graduate of Old Saybrook High School and will begin studies in music education at the University of Hartford’s Hartt School of Music this fall.

Filed Under: Community, News
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