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SPRING 2026

VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 1

PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT

Suzanne Cahill

Suzanne@milfordliving.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Ann McGuire

ART DIRECTOR

Ryan Swanson

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan Carroll Dwyer

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Joy Haines

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Suzanne Cahill, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Keyvan Behpour, Maryalice Manning, Ann McGuire, Dan Purcell

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Tracy Farricker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Susan Carroll Dwyer, Suzanne Johnson, Karena Garrity, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Molly Lynch Marilyn May, Ann McGuire, Haley McNish, Katie Murphy, Cindy Papish Gerber

PRODUCTION ASSISTANCE

Kevin Maher, Wendy Macomber, Todd Manning, Tamara Simpson

INTERNS

Bridget Dwyer, Molly Lynch

MILFORD LIVING MAGAZINE

53 River Street Milford CT 06460 203-283-5290 http://www.milfordliving.com

Milford Living Magazine (ISSN 1547-4429) is distributed quarterly by Red Mat Publishing. P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher. Subscription Rates: U.S. $27.96. Newsstand: $6.99. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460. Please allow six to eight weeks for subscription processing. Copyright 2003-2026 Red Mat Publishing. www.milfordliving.com/subscribe

Opinions expressed in Milford Living Magazine articles and advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, respectively, and should not be considered as expressions of management or official policies of Milford Living Magazine.

MORE THAN A M HOO

A PLACE TO SHINE CONNECT BELONG BE HAPPY

Our students gain far more than music skills. They build confidence, form lasting friendships, become part of a supportive community, and learn to collaborate as a team.

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Dear Readers,

Spring in Milford has a way of reminding us of what makes this place so special. The first daffodils push through the soil and the familiar rhythm of community life returns.

With this issue we celebrate that renewal and a milestone of our own. This year marks our 23rd, and we remain grateful to share the stories of this remarkable shoreline city. As always, this issue reflects the many dimensions of Milford life. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Milford finds itself reflecting on a story that began even earlier and has long been defined by a civic spirit that continues today.

We explore the legacy of institutions that shape Milford’s identity. Lauralton Hall marks 120 years of educating young women and fostering leadership, and the Milford Garden Club celebrates a century of stewardship. We spent time with the Milford Elks, whose members continue a tradition of charitable work and fellowship.

In Milford Morsels, local chefs share strawberry-inspired recipes highlighting the season’s sweetest ingredient. In Through the Grapevine, we discover how Milford has become a hub for wine distribution, with family-run companies importing wines from around the world.

For 23 years, we’ve been honored to chronicle both the everyday and the extraordinary. Thank you for inviting us into your homes and for supporting the local businesses, writers, photographers, and designers who make this

As spring unfolds, I hope this issue inspires you to explore a little more of Milford and enjoy time with the people

READERS’ LETTERS

Family Resource Center, you can email either Kathy Aspinwall at kaspinwall@ milforded.org or Christen Pond at cpond@

I have to tell you how much I enjoyed McGuire’s story on “History’s Resilient Witness” was excellent; masterfully written and proof Aunt Hagar Merriman, a slave who was educated and wrote down some of her memories, including her description of Layfette’s visit to Milford in 1824 when

the hero walked along Broad Street. McGuire fits in facts on the number of slaves in Connecticut and Milford, the pro-Lincoln rallies in New Haven, the Abolitionist “Wide Awakes,” and Merriman’s thoughts as she neared death. Fascinating story.

—Marilyn May, Milford

Our editor came across the Merriman’s name online and knew we had to share what little is known about her so that her story can continue to live. We will continue to hunt for more of Milford’s hidden treasures.

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

Spring is just around the comer! If you're planning on a garden this year, you owe yourself a visit to one of Milford's best kept secrets for your annuals, potted plants -r-- J and vegetables! ----�

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AROUND TOWN

Celebrating America at 250

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Milford finds itself in the rare position of reflecting not only on the nation’s founding, but on a history that predates that founding by more than a century.

First settled in 1639, our city is 387 years old this year. English colonists purchased land from the local Paugussett tribe encompassing present-day Milford, Orange, and West Haven. For more than three centuries Milford remained a town before its incorporation as a city in 1959, and its early commitment to self-governance and freedom echoes clearly in today’s commemorations.

Milford’s 250th Semiquincentennial Anniversary Celebration Committee chairman Ben Blake shares that the vision for Milford’s 250th celebration is both reflective and forward-looking. “Milford’s 250th celebration will pay tribute to the spirit that has carried our community through generations—resilience, neighborliness, and a deep love of country—while inviting every resident to see themselves in our shared story. We want this milestone to be more than a look back; it’s a chance to celebrate our diversity and inspire the next generation to shape Milford’s future with the same optimism that defined our past.”

For Milford City Clerk and vice chair of the 250th Committee Pete Smith, the milestone underscores the city’s tangible role in the American Revolution.

“Milford’s Revolutionary story includes moments of both hardship and heroism. When 200 prisoners of war were dropped on our shore January 1, 1777, Milford became part of the living history of the American Revolution. The 250th celebration belongs to all the people of Milford, past and present, whose dedication, hard work, and civic pride have shaped the city we are proud to call home.”

City historian Art Stowe reminds us that Milford’s independent spirit was established long before 1776; residents came seeking freedom to worship. They purchased their land rather than receiving it from the king, formed their own government led by the “seven pillars,” and governed themselves for 138 years before the Continental Congress declared independence. Within days of Lexington and Concord, Milford sent supplies and weapons, and its citizens have answered the nation’s call in every generation since. Mayor Rich Smith sees the yearlong celebration as an opportunity to strengthen that shared purpose, noting that a dedicated committee is working to define Milford’s contribution to the national conversation and that he hopes residents will remember the anni-

versary as both a tribute to history and a renewed sense of belonging.

We also checked in with Milford’s economic and community development director, Robert Townes, to understand how residents, businesses, and local organizations can participate in the year ahead. Townes emphasizes that the 250th Committee is eager for broad community involvement. Information about national initiatives is available at America250.org, while statewide themes can be explored at CT250.org. Milford’s own America 250 webpage will be online shortly with details about local plans and events. In the meantime, the City’s Economic and Community Development office welcomes inquiries from anyone interested in learning more.

Community members are also invited to share their voices, whether by proposing a related event, contributing a program idea, or offering personal stories that illuminate Milford’s rich history. A fundraising effort is being launched to support signature events as well as a lasting tribute to this historic milestone, with outreach planned to the business community, charitable organizations, and the public for financial support. Volunteerism will be a cornerstone of the year. One of the committee’s goals is to make this a record-setting year of service, whether through direct involvement in America 250 initiatives or through broader com-

munity engagement that strengthens the fabric of our city.

The arts will also play a central role in telling Milford’s story. Milford Arts Council executive director Paige Miglio points to upcoming events such as the May Community Doodle at the Fire-

house Gallery and October’s inaugural Jazz’n Downtown festival, describing jazz as “American music, an expression of our democracy,” rooted in history yet constantly evolving, much like Milford itself.

As the nation turns 250, Milford at 387 stands as a reminder that our community helped shape the American story long before it was officially declared. This year’s celebrations invite us not only to honor that legacy, but to carry it forward together.

—Suzanne Cahill

Please visit milfordliving.com for a schedule of 250th anniversary events.

A Cold War Legacy Remembered

A new monument quietly joined others on the Milford Green in recent months, carrying with it a story many residents may not realize is part of the city’s history. Thanks to the efforts of the members of American Legion Post 34, a memorial honoring the former Nike missile site on Eels Hill was relocated, restored, and rededicated during a ceremony held in September.

The monument commemorates both the site and Milford’s role in a nationwide defense system during the Cold War, a period marked by heightened international tension and the looming threat of nuclear conflict. As relations between the United States and the Soviet Union grew increasingly strained in the 1950s, the U.S. military recognized a critical vulnerability in the defenses of the nation: long-range Soviet bombers were capable of reaching American cities and industrial centers. In response, the U.S. developed the Nike Missile System, which was an

extensive anti-aircraft defense network designed to protect key industrial and population areas.

Nearly 250 Nike missile sites were established across the country, ncluding one in Milford. Butch Parmalee, adjutant of American Legion Post 34, explained the layout of the local site: “The radar installation for Milford’s Nike site was on Eels Hill and the launch area was in the spot that is now Conklin Field.”

The launch area housed twelve Nike Ajax missiles. These surface-to-air missiles had a range of approximately 25

miles, could reach altitudes of 12 miles, and travel at speeds of up to 1,500 miles per hour under radar guidance. Parmalee noted that the missiles were of utmost importance. “These were a deterrent to the Russian (USSR) heavyduty bomber, which was the biggest threat in a time before intercontinental ballistic missiles,” says Parmalee. The radar system on Eels Hill was designed to track incoming aircraft and guide missiles if an interception became necessary. It was an unseen shield protecting the area’s population and industry.

The Milford Nike site became operational in 1957 under the U.S. Army and was transferred to Connecticut National Guard control in 1960. Parmalee explained that the base closed in 1964, with the National Guard relocating to Ansonia. By 1970, advancements in military technology, particularly in the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles, rendered the Nike system

obsolete, and the remaining sites across the country were decommissioned.

Even so, the site’s significance was not forgotten. According to nikemissile. org, a plaque was created upon the base opening by the “Citizens of Milford, CT, to honor those who served at the Milford Battery Site in defense of freedom.” Parmalee himself remembers visiting the site as a youth. “I was a scout during that time,” he recalls. “We scouts went to the site and were able to poke around, look at the missiles, and see what was there.”

In 2013, nearly 50 years after the base closed, the City of Milford held a commemorative ceremony at the original site. During that event, the original

MILFORD SPOTLIGHT

plaque, which had gone missing but was eventually recovered, was reinstalled. A second plaque was added to mark the 50th anniversary of the site’s closing and to recognize Milford residents who had served there.

Over time, however, the area surrounding the monument became overgrown and largely forgotten. That changed when Lee Baldieri, a member of American Legion Post 34 who had been stationed at the site, rediscovered it while exploring the area. “Nobody knew it was there,” says Parmalee. Recognizing its historical importance, American Legion Post 34 reached out to the City of Milford, which proved eager to help.

The city worked with the Post to identify a more visible and accessible location on the Milford Green, near the Vietnam Memorial, on the condition that the Post members clean and restore the monument. They did just that, cleaning the stone, restoring the plaques, and preparing it for public display. On September 13, 2025, the memorial was officially rededicated in a ceremony attended by veterans, community members, and local officials.

Today, visitors can find the monument, a large boulder with two plaques set into its flat face, surrounded by seasonal flowers on the Milford Green. It stands as a quiet reminder of a tense

era when vigilance and preparedness were part of everyday life, even if unseen by most residents.

As you pass the memorial, consider the service members who served at the Nike site, standing ready during a time when the nation lived under the shadow of potential conflict. Their work helped ensure that Milford, and countless other communities, remained safe.

—Shaileen Landsberg

American Legion Post 34 meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm at the Fowler Memorial Building. Veterans interested in learning more or joining are encouraged to attend.

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AT YOUR SERVICE

Elks Connecting with the Community

All images courtesy of the Milford Elks Lodge 1589

The Milford Elks Lodge, a longstanding chapter of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the U.S.A. is a fraternal organization committed to being involved in and supporting the local community.

Originally chartered in July of 1931, Milford Elks Lodge 1589 has been a vibrant organization made up of enthusiastic residents. The lodge followed the example of the Elks original chapter, New York Lodge 1, which was founded by an English-born entertainer named Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian and his friends, who were also entertainers.

That first chapter, which started out

as a loose social organization called the Jolly Corks, was transformed after one of the original members passed away in 1867. His wife and children were impoverished, and the remaining members recognized the need for a charitable organization to help those struggling.. They established the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks in 1868, and the first local lodge (New York Lodge 1) in 1871.

Milford Elks Lodge 1589 lays wreaths during a ceremony honoring veterans.

Like the original, Milford’s lodge is extremely committed to charitable works. The club’s Exalted Ruler Jennifer Vondle shared that the organization focuses on the qualities of “charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity,” adding, “in general, there is a lot of giving back to the community through hosting events, fundraising, and participating in other organizations’ events.”

Many of the fundraising events, as well as social events, are held at the lodge’s clubhouse at 124 New Haven Avenue. Musical gatherings, karaoke, line dancing, games such as Mixtape Matchup, and so many more gatherings have, and continue to take place, at the clubhouse.

Vondle is an enthusiastic member and leader of the Milford Elks Lodge. “I love what we stand for!” she says. “There is still a need for connectivity

Lodge 1589 enjoys robust participation in all its events.

to the community we live in. We have fun and work toward a common cause.”

“I was born and raised in Milford, and as a child was a Milford Elks cheerleader,” she continues, describing her long-time connection with the lodge. “I would attend family events at the lodge and feel like it has always been a part of my life. I was proud to become a member.”

he or she has the opportunity to set the theme for the year. Vondle decided to focus on Be the Difference as a theme.

When an exalted ruler (the title for the club’s president) steps into office,

“We do try to be the difference in the community and have fun along the way, focusing on fellowship and building relationships,” Vondle says. “I love my lodge and what we do.”

Much of the charitable work done by the Milford Elks Lodge focuses on

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needs right here in our city. “We do a lot of giving back,” shares Vondle, stating that it encompasses help for many in all walks of life. In addition to the events held at the lodge, they have food drives, work with Milford’s Food 2 Kids, have done hat and glove drives, as well as diaper drives and bike helmet drives.

One important outreach held by the lodge each year is Christmas dinner for those who are food insecure. “We get a list of families and pack food baskets and deliver them directly to the home,” Vondle explains.

“We also focus a lot on veterans,” she says. “We put American flags on the headstones of local vets, lay wreaths at

Lodge members participate in Milford’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade which has won “Best Float” several times.

monuments, and one member, who is also a veteran, runs a boat trip through the Thimble Islands each year for his fellow vets. Afterward they return to the lodge for a prime rib dinner.”

In truth, the list of outreach

endeavors that the lodge undertakes is impressive. “We participate in the Milford Rape Crisis Center’s ‘Walk a Mile in Her Shoes’ event, hold a Flag Day ceremony, host children’s parties at Christmas and Easter, and hold

Hoop Shoot and Soccer Shoot competitions where winners can advance all the way to the national competitions,” Vondle cheers. “We also provide scholarships for college for local students.” The lodge also participates in Milford’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade where they took first prize for their float in both 2024 and 2025.

Members enjoy social events as well as service projects together.

Milford Elks Lodge 1589 reflects something quietly enduring about our community:

neighbors showing up for one another, finding fellowship, and giving back

where it matters most. Whether it’s supporting veterans, helping local families, guiding youth, or simply providing a welcoming place for connection and fun, the lodge continues to carry forward the spirit of the nearly 160-year-old organization.

—Shaileen Landsberg

Find out more about the Milford Elks Lodge 1589 at https://www.milfordelks.com/ or call 203874-1589.

ON THE WATER

Sailing the Sound Safely

While spending a warm day on the waters of Long Island Sound, boating safety is paramount. Conditions can change within minutes and every second counts. Things can go sideways without notice, so being prepared is essential. Familiarity with your vessel and knowing the rules of navigation are not only necessary to obtain your boating license, but fundamental to staying safe on the water.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary (CGA) was chartered in 1942. As the U.S. entered World War II, tens of thousands of volunteers joined CGA’s from coast to coast to keep watchful eyes on potential threats. Thousands placed their private vessels into service to assist in protecting our nation. The Milford Flotilla 24-3 was designated to stand watch on Long Island Sound. In addition to their vigilance, the Auxiliary began teaching boating safety.

Situated directly on Milford Harbor, the Auxiliary building is easy to find, nestled at Milford Landing. Port and

starboard channel markers flank the building with blinking signals beckoning boaters to learn the rules of the waters. Boating enthusiasts come from towns all around to take classes, but it’s not only for motor and sailing boats. With the increase in popularity of kayaking, jet skis, and paddleboards, classes for personal watercraft safety classes are also available.

“We started teaching informal boating safety classes in 1942 and

continue to this day,” explains Dennis Belanger, public education chairman. “We currently teach Safe Boating and Navigation classes that NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators) approved.” Belanger continues, “The Safe Boating Class is recognized by Connecticut and completion of this class will get the student their CT Safe Boating Certificate (license) with PWC (personal watercraft)

and Towing (water skiing/tubing) certificates allowing you to operate vessels in Connecticut waters. The state certificate is recognized by most states. Our boating safety classes and navigation classes are $70 per person.”

According to public affairs chairman Tom Violante, the CGA currently has “21,000 members in the 50 states in 793 local units. We contribute 3.8 million hours annually in support of the U.S. Coast Guard including in the classroom, at the ramp and pier, in galleys, and operating 1,800 vessels, 160 aircraft and 1,400 radio facilities.” That’s quite a record. “Membership is

Boating classes are held at the Auxiliary, offering licenses for those who want to sail the Sound.

open to any citizen of the U.S. and its territories and possessions who is 17 years of age or older (no mandatory maximum age),” says Violante.

“Membership is predicated on full and successful completion of the Auxiliary enrollment application, including the passing of the New Member Exam

The Ultimate Waterfront Experience

and acknowledgement of CGAuxA, Inc. membership,” continues Violante. “It is also predicated upon receipt of a favorable background check. In Milford, we hold our flotilla meeting on the first Tuesday of every month at our building at 1 Helwig Street.. If you are interested in joining, please come down to the meeting to meet our members and begin the process.”

“The Auxiliary are active in aviation, Coast Guard support, marine safety, environmental protection, navigation systems, recreational boating safety, public affairs, operations, public education, instruction, communications, cooking at the CG station in New Haven and

several other missions,” says Belanger. “The Milford Flotilla currently has two patrol vessels on the water for which members can qualify as crew and coxswains.”

Boating classes are offered beginning in February and running through September. Every year the Milford Flotilla educates more than 300 students. They will also hold classes for organizations throughout the year. For more information visit https://wow.uscgaux. info/content.php?unit=014-24-03.

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

Mil f ord Living’ s 1 6t h Annua l

KITE FLY KITE FLY

T h e M i l f o r d L i v i n g K i t e F l y h a s

b e c o m e a s p r i n g t i m e t r a d i t i o n i n

M i l f o r d . I t i s f u n , f a m i l y f r i e n d l y

d a y a t t h e b e a c h . J o i n u s a g a i n

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k i t e s i n t o t h e s k y !

T h i s y e a r we a r e p a r t n e r i n g wi t h T h e

Gi g g l i n g P i g wh o wi l l b e o n h a n d t o

p r o v i d e a r t s a n d c r a f t e x p e r i e n c e s f o r

o u r y o u n g e s t o f k i t e f l y e r s .

F l y y o u o wn k i t e o r s i t b a c k a n d e n j o y t h e

s h o w!

9 MA Y 2026

Mil f o r d, CT 06460 1 2:00P M - 3:00P M

Wa l nut B ea ch

1 1 3 Ea s t B r o a dwa y

By Keyvan Behpour

Each has shared a favorite berry-forward recipe, some sweet, some savory, all rooted in the season. Their creations highlight just how versatile strawberries (and their berry cousins) can be, whether folded into a a fresh salad, or lending depth to an unexpected entrée.

BIN 100

100 Lansdale Avenue

Bin100.com

Chef Serafin Mario

Grilled Chicken with Fresh Strawberries and Burrata

Yield: 2 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken

breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Strawberries

ed—plated, perfected, and paired. Then, bring a bit of that inspiration home and see if you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen. After all, berry season is fleeting. Best to savor it fully.

1 cup fresh strawberries, rinsed and sliced

1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon honey

For the Burrata

4-ounce ball burrata cheese

Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Bring burrata to room temperature while cooking the chicken.

2. Preheat grill to 400°F.

3. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and

pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate 15 minutes.

4. Place chicken on a heated grill grate and close lid. Cook 5–6 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and rest.

5. In a small bowl, combine strawberries, basil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Let sit for 5 minutes.

6. To serve, slice chicken and place on a platter. Top with burrata and spoon strawberry mixture over the top. Serve immediately.

STONEBRIDGE RESTAURANT

50 Daniel Street

Stonebridgerestaurant.com

Chef Brett Keating

Salmon Watermelon–

Strawberry Salad with Blueberry Glaze

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

A bright and refreshing summer dish featuring seared, oven-finished salmon topped with a sweet blueberry glaze, served over a watermelon–strawberry salad with arugula, feta, and mint.

Ingredients

Salmon & Blueberry Glaze

4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup white wine

4 tablespoons butter, divided

1 cup fresh blueberries

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Pinch of salt

Salad

4 cups watermelon, cubed

1½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced

2 cups arugula

¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Cube watermelon, slice strawberries, and chop mint leaves.

2. Cook the salmon. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sear salmon skin side up for 2 minutes. Transfer to a baking dish. Pour white wine into the dish until it reaches about 1/8 inch up the sides of the fish. Place 1 tablespoon of butter on each fillet. Bake 8–12 minutes, or until desired doneness.

3. Make the blueberry glaze. In a small saucepan, combine

blueberries, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and salt. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until berries soften and mixture thickens. Mash lightly for a chunkier glaze or strain for smooth consistency. Set aside.

4. Combine watermelon, strawberries, arugula, feta, and mint in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Toss gently and divide into four plates.

5. Place a salmon fillet on each salad. Spoon warm blueberry glaze over the top. Serve immediately.

MILFORD MORSELS

ANCHOR SOCIAL

141 Merwin Ave

Anchorsocialmilford.com

Chef Eric Genuario

Strawberry and Guajillo St. Louis

Ribs with Strawberry Corn Stracciatella

Salad

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours

35 minutes

A bold, layered dish balancing sweet strawberries, smoky guajillo peppers, and rich stracciatella with fresh summer corn.

Ingredients

Ribs

1 rack St. Louis ribs

Dry Rub

½ cup powdered strawberries

¼ cup salt

¼ cup black pepper

¼ cup smoked paprika

¼ cup brown sugar

Slather

¼ cup Dijon mustard

3 tablespoons strawberry jam

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Strawberry–

GuajilloBBQ Sauce

1 quart strawberries

6 dried guajillo peppers

½ cup ketchup

¼ cup molasses

3 jalapeños

2 yellow onions

5 cloves garlic

2 cups apple cider vinegar

Strawberry Corn Salad

4 ears corn, husked

1 cup pickled green strawberries

1/8 cup pickled shallots

½ cup cherry tomatoes

Fresh basil

Fresh tarragon

Olive oil

Salt and pepper

Stracciatella cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the ribs. Whisk together slather ingredients and brush over ribs. Combine dry rub ingredients and coat ribs generously on both sides. Place ribs meat-side up on a wire rack set over a sheet pan. Bake at 250°F for 2 hours.

2. Make the BBQ sauce. Remove seeds and stems from guajillo peppers. Cover with boiling water and soak 15–20 minutes until softened. Meanwhile, sauté onions, garlic, jalapeños, and strawberries until soft. Add ketchup, molasses, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer 30 minutes. Add softened peppers and blend until smooth.

3. After 2 hours, brush ribs with BBQ sauce. Return to oven for 1 hour. Brush again, flip bone-side up, and cook

30 minutes more until sauce adheres and meat pulls from bone.

Remove, slice, and garnish with dehydrated strawberry powder and Tajín.

4. Prepare the salad. Remove corn kernels from cobs. Combine with pickled strawberries, shallots, cherry tomatoes, basil, and tarragon. Dress with olive oil, salt, pepper, and 3 tablespoons strawberry pickling liquid.

Spread stracciatella on serving plate. Top with corn salad and serve alongside ribs.

POP’S RESTAURANT

134 Old Gate Lane

Popsfamilyrestaurant.com

Chef Danny Vega

Nini’s Salad with Blackened Chicken

Yield: 2-4 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

A vibrant, satisfying salad that balances fresh greens, sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and toasted almonds, finished with bold blackened chicken and a classic balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Fresh cello (mixed lettuce blend)

Fresh spinach

Red onion, thinly sliced

Diced tomatoes

Fresh strawberries, sliced Goat cheese, crumbled

Toasted almonds

Balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Blackened chicken breast, sliced

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine cello greens and fresh spin ach. Add sliced red onion, diced tomatoes, strawber-

ThroughGrapevinethe

Local distributors bring the best of the world’s vineyards to Milford

BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER

This past October, my husband and I were lucky to spend ten days touring the Emilia-Romana Region of Italy. For the last meal of our trip, we chose Da Cesari, a family-owned restaurant with over 50 years of history situated in the heart of Bologna’s core. This trattoria has garnered raves from critics and diners alike for its expert preparations of classic Bolognese cuisine.

So unsurprisingly, and oh-so happily, every morsel of our delectable three-course dinner would leave an indelible impression. But imagine our surprise when our charismatic server (and third generation owner) Riccardo Cesari proceeded to serve up a taste of Milford with

“Ah, I know Connecticut very well, especially Milford,” declared Cesari as he deftly uncorked a bottle of Rossi dell’Emilia Romagna Cantina Umberto Cesari. “This wine was imported by my cousins, who own a business there. I had the good fortune of visiting them in Milford a few years ago. Buon appetito!”

“The Cesari family has been a wonderful partner to us,” says Renee Reignier-Durkin, vice president of sales for Opici Family Distributing, a fourth-generation, family-owned wine and spirits wholesaler since 1913, recognized for producing award-winning wines from around the globe. Established in 1995, Opici has facilities in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Washington DC, Maryland, and Delaware.

Its Connecticut distribution center on Milford’s Old Gate Lane represents more than 300 producers, offering a selection of 1,600 varieties of fine wine and spirits. Among Opici’s acclaimed products is their Cesari Amarone, a full-bodied, balanced red wine from

Italy’s Veneto region. “Cesari is the first imported Amarone into the United States from Opici Wine and Spirits dating back 40-plus years,” Durkin notes. “And Opici Family Distributing has been proudly selling the brand to local wine shops and restaurants for the past 20-plus years.”

“We do quite a bit of business with Opici,” says Jeffrey Wilson, owner of Wines And More! in Milford. “To my knowledge, they’re one of three wine companies based here. The other two are Vinifera and Mina Foods. All three are small importers; family businesses interested in nurturing relationships with their producers…as well as retailers like us.”

(Above) Votto Vines’ Andy Tremaglio with Wines And More! manager Stephanie Voight. (Left) Vinefera’s Dom and Dominic Nocerino at Giuseppe Rinaldi Winery in Barolo, Italy.

Wines And More! manager, Stephanie Voight, explains, “We regularly host wine dinners throughout the year with local Milford restaurants, showcasing wines from these and other Connecticut-based importers, such as Votto Vines of Hamden,” she explains. Voight believes Milford’s proximity to the I-95 corridor maximizes efficiency for “receiving and delivering products throughout the state. And there are a lot of available warehouse options.”

“When my father opened in Connecticut 30 years ago,” recalls Dom Nocerino of Vinifera Imports, “We settled in Milford because we felt it was advantageous for reaching all parts of the state.” A family owned and operated importer and distributor of quality

Italian wines, “Vinifera was founded by the elder Nocerino in Illinois. Now headquartered in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY, Vinifera presently operates in 18 states plus Washington DC. Their Rowe Avenue Milford facility serves as their Connecticut hub. “We work with small artisanal wineries traditionally found in higher end restaurants and retail stores,” Nocerino shares. He’s particularly proud of their several “under-the-radar exceptional value wines,” such as the Taurasi Guastaferro, harvested from the volcanic soils of Campania and the Falanghina I Pentri, a “rich-textured white which would pair nicely with lighter spring menus.”

When asked which regions are the most popular at Wines And More!, Voight observes that while customers still gravitate towards familiar chiantis, pinot grigios, and rosés imported from familiar “old world”

regions of Italy, France, and Spain, they’re increasingly interested in, “exploring recommendations for producers, varietals, and micro-regions they may not have experienced. A subset of clients are very discerning oenophiles that travel from around the state to shop with us, and to seek our assistance in sourcing rare bottles for their cellars.”

“At Rivercliff Wine & Spirits, our specially curated selection of imported (Left) Interior of

wines is chosen with intention, focusing on quality, character, and authenticity,” says owner Jacy Ciszkowski. “We work with trusted producers/distributors from renowned and emerging wine regions to bring bottles that truly express their terroir. Each wine is hand-selected for balance, craftsmanship, and a story worth sharing. Whether you’re discovering something new or revisiting a classic, our imported collection is designed

to elevate every glass. We do taste everything that comes into the store to ensure it meets our standards.”

Greg Davies, owner of The Crushed Grape on Melba Street, notices his savvy Milford customers, “typically keeping up with the latest trends.” Lately, sales of New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs are “catching up to typical cabernets, chardonnays, and tempranillos.” For those looking to expand their education and palates he suggests, “Three ways to

Little Ark Wine from Lantides Winery in Greece, imported by Mina Foods.

learn about wine: read about wine, talk about wine, and taste wine.”

Mina Foods, located at a state-ofthe art facility on Research Drive, “is one of the only distributors in CT to provide both food and wine,” says Dimos Mitas, a co-owner with his brother Peter. The duo grew Mina from a small distribution company to

a competitive business providing food and beverages for various restaurants and eateries throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York.

“We specialize in Mediterranean food products as well as great wines from each region. We are most famous for our wines from Greece, especially from the island of Santorini, as well as our imported extra virgin olive oil.”

According to Mitas, “We started at our Milford location in 2008, as we fell in love with Milford, which is why I moved here a couple of years ago as well. We are proud to be a part of the Milford community and looking forward to expanding our Milford customer base.”

Although Votto Vines operates out of Hamden, this family-owned company, renowned for offering toprated wines sourced from Europe, Australia, and South America, counts numerous Milford retailers, such as Rivercliff Wine & Spirits, Wines And More!, The Crushed Grape, Total Wine, and the Milford Arts Council among its valued customers. “We also hold dinners and wine education courses at local restaurants such as Bin 100 and Stonebridge,” says Nick Aceto, VP of marketing at Votto Vines. “Often, we’ll host one of our supplier partners from abroad (for example, an Italian winemaker) who will accompany our staff to the wine dinner to provide insight into the winemaking process.”

Many of these dinners are done in collaboration with Wines & More.

“They provide retail capabilities for dinner guests,” he adds. “Our staff

The best way to learn about wine is experience. Wines And More! aims to make that experience a tasty one.

coordinates with the restaurant to pick the wine list based on serving options and the educational aspect

of the evening. This is a way for us to support our retail partners, support local restaurants, and increase brand

recognition of our products with local consumers.”

My interest in wine is more than a passing one; my son is a restaurateur and sommelier in the Boston area. He, along with experts interviewed here, encourages newbies not to feel overwhelmed by so many choices.

“Wine is meant to be enjoyed and experienced, and not be intimidating or confusing,” echoes Stephanie Voight. Whether one is picking up a bottle for a casual dinner or selecting wines to serve hundreds at a big event, she encourages customers to browse, ask questions, and come to tastings. “It’s a big world with a lot of incredible wines.”

American Spirit is Engrained in Our Community!

MILFORD GREEN

A Century in Bloom

Milford is awash with beauty, much of which stems from the brilliant displays of nature throughout the city, even beyond the parks and greens. Several of these displays are thanks to the Milford Garden Club, an organization of people dedicated to the preservation, beautification, and education of Milford’s nature.

2026 is a special year for the club, marking 100 years since its humble beginnings. On the second Tuesday in November 1926, residents gathered to discuss Milford’s natural landscape at what would later become the Milford Garden Club. It was one of five horticultural/naturalist clubs in town, but as the years progressed, the other groups merged into the Milford Garden Club, their efforts pooled to yield the best possible outcome for the town.

A century later, the central goals remain unchanged.

Milford Garden Club members have been reminiscing on their achievements over the years, all of which have resulted in memorable gardens that draw the appreciative gaze of residents. A Blue Star Memorial, a symbol established by garden clubs in 1944 to honor veterans, was placed in front of the Fowler

Building. On the club’s 90th anniversary, the memorial was enhanced with benches as a place of remembrance.

Milford’s official flower is the eastern purple coneflower, echinacea purpurea It stands for health, resilience, and as a beacon of spirituality; an impeccable omen for our beloved city.

The Milford Garden Club is responsible for the stunning gardens outside the Milford Public Library, Milford Historical Society’s Clark-Stockade House, and most recently, the Freelove Baldwin Stow DAR building, all adorned with plants and trees native to North America. The club was part of a state-

Milford Garden Club members participate in workshops and the preparation of nature-inspired donations and gifts.

wide initiative to plant oak trees, which are special because oak is both our state and national tree. The Northern Red Oak standing on the Robert Treat Parkway Esplanade is evidence of the club’s success. The club’s work goes beyond maintenance and enhancement. They make donations each year to organizations such as the Milford Hospital Auxiliary’s Celebration of Trees, the Red Cross, Beth El Shelter, Bridges, Milford Public Library, and Daughters of the American Revolution, including the donation of stunning handmade holiday wreaths. Addition-

ally, the club sponsors an annual May Market event where aspiring gardeners can purchase herbs, flowers, vegetables, and shrubs for planting, as well as baked goods and garden decor. The market raises money for scholarships dedicated to local high school seniors pursuing careers in related fields. Don’t miss this year’s May Market at Lisman

Landing on Saturday, May 16th. Garden Club meeting topics range from project discussions to workshops and the preparation of nature-inspired donations and gifts. Recently there was a floral design demonstration and how-to guides covering proper seed storage and herbal infusion for oils and vinegars. “The topics of interest are

MILFORD GREEN

endless,” Ann Rossi, the group’s publicist, explains. “But always centered around the garden, our environment, and conservation.”

Other events on their radar include sessions on paper pounding, birdhouse design, and the language of flowers.

There are also plans to make seed packets and a booklet bursting with generations of useful tips to benefit the community.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary, and to honor, in tandem, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, all three of the main gardens will be getting a patriotic display of plants.

Club members’ good cheer and genorisity help keep Milford beautiful.

New members are always welcome and encouraged to join. If you want to learn how to produce a healthy garden, this is the place for you! There are no

Mo

Kids eat FREE night!

boundaries for who can become a part of this historic club; their arms are as open as the first bloom of spring.

Meetings are open to the public and held every second Tuesday of the month, an ode to tradition, at the Freelove Baldwin Stow DAR building. If you are someone who loves gardening, or who simply enjoys basking in the rays of the sun with warm soil underfoot, the Milford Garden Club is calling to you.

—Haley McNish

For more information on the Milford Garden Club, call 203-848-7459, email milford gardenclubct@gmail.com or follow MilfordCTGardenClub on Facebook.

All Around Us MILFORD WILDLIFE

Spring is here, and something subtle and extraordinary has begun to unfold. Marsh grasses brighten, backyard trees swell with buds, and the quiet of the colder months gives way to the sounds of nature’s renewal. It’s what we’ve all been waiting for, especially after this winter’s fury.

The shift can reveal itself in small but meaningful ways: spotting a rabbit at dusk, noticing movements unseen by the eye at the marsh edge, or hearing frogs through an open window at dusk. Taken together, these moments signal a coastal ecosystem coming fully back to life.

Yet one doesn’t have to travel to renowned destinations like Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in New York City, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in New Jersey, or the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge along the South Carolina–Georgia boundary to experience extraordinary wildlife. In Milford, nature is quite literally all around us, thriving along our rivers, salt marshes, tidal estuaries, and even our very busy roadways.

While driving along New Haven Avenue near the Indian River, Tim Chaucer recalls a striking sight that emerged in open water left unfrozen by the recent harsh temperatures: several large Common Mergansers. These

(Left) A Common Merganser with a baby duckling riding on her back. (Right) A colorful Wood Duck.

elegant diving ducks, mostly white with narrow red bills designed for catching fish, are particularly stunning in the males, whose dark green heads shimmer in the light. Nearby were their relatives, the smaller Hooded Merganser and the Red-Breasted Merganser, gathered together in a rare and memorable display. Sharing the water were other diving ducks such as Bufflehead and Common Goldeneye, alongside the familiar American Black Duck, a dabbling species known for feeding on aquatic vegetation rather than fish.

Along Beach Avenue in Woodmont, hundreds of Brant Geese comb the rocky shoreline for mollusks and crustaceans, while farther offshore, rafts of Greater Scaup drift with the tide. Seasonal visitors sometimes include common loons and various grebes, and the especially fortunate observer might glimpse a Red-throated Loon, recognizable by its slender, slightly upturned bill.

Casual observers may not realize that Milford also supports an impressive

population of long-legged wading birds, species that nest in trees and draw birders from across the state. The less common Yellow-Crowned Night Heron nests near Laurel Beach, while BlackCrowned Night Heron colonies can be found along the Housatonic River. At dawn or dusk, they can often be seen feeding across mudflats near Gulf Beach or by the boat launch at Fowler Field. Nearby, Great Blue Herons nest along Housatonic Drive in the Rivercliff area, and the powerful Bald Eagle is increasingly sighted in town wherever fish are plentiful.

Spring walkers along River Street downtown may encounter the striking

Wood Duck or large gatherings of Ring-Necked ducks, reminders that remarkable biodiversity exists just beyond our front doors. “I remember walking to my car behind our office on River Street when something caught my eye beneath branches dipping into the Wepawaug River,” recalls Suzanne Cahill, Milford Living publisher. “To my surprise, a river otter darted through the water. It was so quick and playful, for a moment the busy pace of the day disappeared. It was a powerful reminder that even in the heart of town, wild encounters are possible.”

Not all wildlife announces itself visually. Sometimes spring is first

A curious river otter surfaces.

detected by sound: the high, rhythmic chorus of the spring peeper drifting through the evening air. Often heard before they are seen, these tiny frogs are among the season’s earliest performers. Above gardens and early blooms,

MILFORD WILDLIFE

migrating Monarch butterflies and other pollinators resume their essential work, providing a quiet but critical contribution to ecological health. As temperatures rise, sunbathing painted turtles appear on rocks and logs, slipping silently into the water as passersby approach the duck pond.

Each March, the return of the Osprey captures the attention of longtime residents and newcomers alike. After wintering thousands of miles away in South America, these striking raptors reclaim nesting platforms in the Housatonic with remarkable precision. Meanwhile, the adaptable eastern cottontail becomes a frequent backyard

S.

The eastern cottontail is active year-round and is commonly found in Milford yards.

visitor, and careful observers might glimpse a fox slipping along a tree line at Silver Sands at sunrise.

The graceful white-tailed deer remains Milford’s most familiar large mammal, moving effortlessly between wooded pockets in our neighborhoods and often wandering along our residential streets and backyards. In late spring, observant walkers may notice fawns nestled quietly in tall grass while their mothers forage nearby. Drivers should remain especially alert during this season, as increased movement often leads to more roadside crossings at dawn and dusk. Wildlife here, for its part, grows accustomed to the steady rhythm of our human activity. Creatures that repeatedly encounter people, cars, and

Monarch butterfly is famed for its epic migration.

bicycles without threat often develop a relaxed demeanor. Yet anything unfamiliar can trigger alarm.

Chaucer recalls one example. “Years ago, during a bird walk near the marsh at Milford Point, the shadow of a passing blimp swept across the landscape. Instantly, thousands of waterfowl erupted into flight. The shadow was new, not part of their daily experience, and therefore perceived as danger. The lesson was unmistakable: wildlife is always assessing its surroundings.” It raises a humbling

thought: almost no matter where you stand in Milford, if you pause long enough to look around, wildlife may already be watching you, perhaps even adding you to its own life list.

The beauty of spring wildlife is that it asks very little of us beyond attention. You don’t need binoculars or deep expertise to appreciate it. Often, it begins with a simple pause. In a season defined by renewal, these encounters invite us to slow down and reconnect with the natural rhythms unfolding just beyond our doors, a reminder that in Milford, the wild is never far away.

—Suzanne Cahill & Tim Chaucer

AT HOME

The Rite of Spring

As the snow thaws and daffodils push through the soil, Milford’s homeowners face the annual ritual of spring maintenance. We recently caught up with local experts for their tips on tackling tasks indoors and out.

CLEAN SWEEP

The process of spring cleaning involves a deep, thorough scrubbing of your home, with the goal of targeting areas that don’t get attention during regular cleans the rest of the year. That includes baseboards, underneath furniture and rugs, and door and window frames, says Karen Larkin, owner of Belle Home Housecleaning in Milford, now in its 21st year.

“Baseboards tend to collect dust, dirt, and hair, and the spring humidity makes them sticky,” Larkin says. ”They have to be cleaned by hand with a damp microfiber cloth—a dry duster will just put it back into the air.”

According to Larkin, it’s best to clean room by room, top to bottom, instead of completing individual tasks like vacuuming all the rugs or washing all the windows. To make things even more efficient, store your cleaning supplies in a caddy so you can tote them room to room. Larkin’s team uses eco-friendly cleaners such as ECOS, Howard, Bon Ami, and OdorXit.

If your home gets a coat of greenishyellow pollen in spring, hold off on cleaning until after that comes to a head, typically around late March or early April, Larkin says.

Don’t get overwhelmed by doing everything yourself, either. Many

professional cleaners,

including Belle Home, provide separate deep cleaning services. If you plan to outsource, do a quick declutter beforehand so your cleaner isn’t spending time organizing your things. “You really get more bang for your buck that way,” Larkin says.

A/C ATTENTION

You might not have given your air conditioner much thought in winter, but come spring it’s crucial to have it serviced by the pros. That’s because HVAC systems are complex and interconnected, says Matthew McKay of Modern Heating & Air Conditioning in Milford.

“These systems are very chain reactionary,” McKay says. “When one part is lagging, the system runs inefficiently and adapts to that. After time, you might require a repair. The repair runs well, but then the rest of the system isn’t used to that.”

With most HVAC companies, including Modern Heating & Air Conditioning, you can set up service on a recurring basis. These maintenance plans are often cheaper in the long run.

especially harsh, or you mulched recently, take care to clear any debris from around the outdoor unit, McKay says. One other thing you can do yourself: change the filter. Once you know what size you need, consider setting up an recurring subscription so you’re never without.

WAKE UP YOUR YARD

After months without attention, your lawn and landscape need some love,

particularly after this winter’s snow, ice, and wind. Once the snow melts, clear the yard of debris and address any damaged spots, says Dan Thornberg, president of Total Lawn Care & More in Milford.

“Oftentimes, the plows push snow to the side of the driveway,” Thornberg says. “The window is very small for new grass installation, so get any areas that were messed up from the plow taken care of as quickly as possible.” Then, once things warm up, focus on fertilizing and mowing. The best time to mow is the last week of April, and no later than the first week in May, according to Thornberg.

If you have a garden, now’s also

the time to enrich your beds with a compost mixture. “That’ll put leachedout nitrogen back into the soil,” says Thornberg. Spring is also the ideal time to check those landscape improvements off your list; think new plantings or patio upgrades. By planning ahead, says

Thornberg, you’ll “get the most out of the little bit of summer we have in the Northeast.”

CHECK UP ON COVERAGE

As you embark on spring maintenance, don’t forget your homeowner’s

AT HOME

insurance policy. Meet with your agent, review your deductibles, and make sure you’re covered properly, says Wanda Carlson with State Farm in Milford.

If you’re planning to declutter and organize as part of your spring cleaning, create a home inventory, as well. Without it, you’ll have a harder time navigating insurance claims if disaster strikes. “It’s not as hard as people think,” Carlson says. “Take your phone and videotape each room, inside drawers and everywhere else that has personal belongings.” If you purchase a new item like a TV, take a photo of the product’s serial number, too.

contractors you hire for spring jobs.

“You don’t want someone going on your roof without insurance,” Carlson says.

MEET YOUR SPRING SQUAD

In addition, verify coverage with any

If you’re buying a home in Milford this spring, remember that you’ll need proof of a homeowners insurance policy before you can close. According to Carlson, it’s best to set this up once you’re satisfied with the home inspection.

This April, the Milford Chamber of Commerce is again bringing together local contractors, landscapers, designers, and more for the West Haven and Milford Regional Home Show. The free event, presented by Total Realty and Mauro Motors, includes educational seminars and exhibits on everything from remodeling to gardening. If you need a professional this spring, the Home Show can help make it happen. It takes place Saturday, April 25, from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Connecticut Post Mall’s Center Court (Level 1, near Boscov’s and Macy’s).

—Suzanne Johnson

COIN LAUNDRY

Put Me in Coach EDUCATION NOTEBOOK

As spring arrives in Milford, high school student-athletes begin training for their sports season.

From softball diamonds at Jonathan Law to the track at Foran and lacrosse fields at Lauralton Hall, these students are preparing for months of teamwork, community, and growth, guided by the coaches who shape their experience.

Coaches are among the most influential figures on a sports team. Like educators, they teach athletes proper technique, discipline, and responsibility while serving

as mentors. Through trust and communication, they help create a positive environment where athletes can grow on and off the field.

At Jonathan Law High School, the varsity girls’ softball team is already in full swing. They have three games and three practices every week, leaving Sunday to rest and reset.

Varsity captain Emily Roos shared what her daily routine looks like as a student-athlete and how she balances her responsibilities. “My everyday as a student-athlete starts at 7:00 am. I usually wake up early before school to get a quick workout in and then eat before I head into school at 9:00,” Roos says. “After school, I go to practice from 2:00 – 4:00 pm, then head to work afterwards from 5:00 – 9:00 pm. After that, I will get home to shower, eat dinner, and finish homework before bed.”

Jonathan Law varsity captain Charlotte Doyle slides into home during a game last season.

While athletes manage rigorous schedules, coaches serve as a key support system, helping guide players through personal challenges. Varsity captain Charlotte Doyle emphasizes the importance of having a supportive coach. “Coaches make a huge impact on me and the sport itself,” she says, speaking about how head coach Melanie Blude interacts with the team. “Coach Blude takes the time out of her day to meet with the team, captains, and players as individuals, either just to check up on them, or to help them with something regarding softball, whether that’s tweaking someone’s swing or going over some film.”

Coach Blude is responsible for developing her players throughout the

season and helping her athletes reach their fullest potential. “I work hard with my girls well beyond the practice window to become the best version of themselves,” Blude says. “We work all year on team culture, accountability, and trust, so they grow not only as athletes but as confident, supportive young women who push each other to be better every day.”

While softball focuses on teamwork, track requires students to manage individual goals alongside team expectations. At Foran High School, boy’s outdoor track and field coaches ensure that their players are prepared mentally and physically for every meet.

“Our coaches are very important to the team,” says captain Daniel Orozco. “They decide things like who’s on what relay and who would be best at every event. In practice, they make sure we

are pushing ourselves to improve, but also making sure we aren’t doing too much injure ourselves.”

Parental support also plays a significant role. Sprinter Ryan Lawrence expressed appreciation for his parents’ encouragement. “My parents are so supportive with everything I do,” he says. “Even if I perform poorly, they still make an effort to show me how proud they are that I even made an effort.”

Track and field is about more than the statistics; it’s about consistency and self-improvement. Assistant coach James Chiappetta explains how he helps athletes focus on personal

growth. “I push the team by setting clear expectations, encouraging consistent effort, and focusing on personal improvement rather than just results,” he says. “I try to meet athletes where they are, provide constructive feedback, and celebrate progress.”

Like outdoor track and field, softball, and most other sports, lacrosse demands communication and teamwork. At Lauralton Hall, the varsity girl’s lacrosse team practices five or six days a week, focusing on skill, individual play, and gameplay.

Foran junior captain Daniel Orozco darts off the starting line during a 2025 meet.

Defensive captain Rowan McGrath describes a tradition started by head coach Laura Andersen which highlights a “player of the game” for both the JV and varsity teams. “At the end of each game, there is a new player crowned,”

McGrath says. “Whether it be from stats, your energy on the field, your energy on the sidelines, or your hustle, everyone is recognized.” This tradition gives players on both squads a chance to be recognized for their hard work and dedication.

As these players and coaches know, it takes more than play to make a winner. “Successful student-athletes treat their coaches, teammates, teachers, referees, opponents, and facilities with respect,” explains Coach Andersen. “They recognize the privilege to have something that brings so much joy and fulfillment.”

—Molly Lynch

The Incomparable Miss Connie

Constance Moore, fondly known to us dancers as Miss Connie, spent decades teaching and influencing hundreds, if not thousands of young dancers and actors, at her studio, the Children’s Theatre Workshop on Factory Lane. Miss Connie was glamour personified, her perfectly coiffed red hair, stage makeup, and snappy wardrobe, which included many, many, many hats.

Born in Iowa, Connie made her way to Hollywood. She trained to become a triple threat: acting, dancing, and singing. She starred in dozens of films alongside Hollywood’s most handsome leading men. Her first big break was in 1939 co-starring alongside Buster Crabbe as Wilma Deering in a twelvepart serial Buck Rogers. She later

starred alongside comedian Eddie Cantor in Show Business (1944) and with Ralph Bellamy in Delightfully Dangerous (1945). On the radio, she was the lead in “Hollywood Mystery Time” with Dennis O’Keefe and regularly sang on multiple broadcasts. In 1951 she toured with Bob Hope for the USO, and throughout the decade that followed made appearances

Miss Connie was a talented Hollywood beauty. Her move to Milford inspired many young students under her tutelage.

on television shows including My Three Sons, The Young Marrieds, and Window on Main Street with Robert Young. Constance Moore received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 8, 1960, for her work in motion pictures. During the mid-sixties she settled in Milford and created the Children’s Theatre Workshop.

And it was truly a workshop. Miss Connie spent months preparing dancers, actors, and singers for a fullblown Broadway production, replete with gorgeous costumes made by Polly Della Goia, as well as a generous coating of pancake makeup and rouge. Merle Condon played the upright piano for us dancers and was generous in giving out sticks of gum if you behaved. Eager students practiced routines under Miss Connie’s watchful eye; she often claimed to have eyes in the back of her head, causing younger students to try and see them through her red hair.

I danced with Miss Connie for many years. My older sister had started lessons; I was performing the routines next to my mom. Miss Connie noticed and made an exception to let me enroll at 3 years old. Miss Connie was tough yet made everything fun. My favorite line of hers: “Point your toes or I’ll break ‘em.” We knew it was in jest, but it made us listen. She had a way of instilling fortitude in us youngsters. During a recital at the then Milford High School auditorium, our young class lost our way during a performance and the audience started laughing.

I came off stage, my eyes welling up. Miss Connie leaned down and said, “If they’re laughing that means they liked it.” She made me feel like a star, as she did for so many students.

“I took tap from 9 years old in 1969 to 1973,” recalls Carl Gent. “My first show was Showboat, by Oscar Hammerstein. I sang, ‘A Pretty Girl is Like a Melody’ in a quartet. My second show with Connie was Girl Crazy by Ira Gershwin. Brian Kaine sang ‘Keep on Treating Me Rough,’ by George Gershwinn. Brian was out one day of rehearsal, so Connie asked me to fill in,” Gent continues. “The girls got rough with me when swinging me around. I was loving it, and one girl

swung me so hard I fell. I was laughing but Connie had a fit. She was tough.”

“Once I began high school at Platt Tech, I joined a band and left dance

behind. But at 28, I was Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar by Tim Rice. After one of the shows Connie came up to me full of praise. That meant the world to me.”

Paula Welter also recalls her time with Miss Connie. “I worked backstage for 24 years,” she said. “She encouraged my choreography and backed me to start my own theater for youth with Milford Rotary, The Milford Project Theater, which produced plays in the early 1970s. The studio was my home away from home! I made costumes for Hello Dolly Connie took me to New York to study and became a dear friend.”

“She was one of a kind,” Welter continues, remembering Connie as “a disciplined caring teacher who

encouraged young students to be themselves and to do their best. I am still friends with many people from the studio and my children also learned so much from Aunt Connie!”

We lost Miss Connie in 2005 after a long, dazzling, well-lived life. She shared her talent, experience, and moxie with the youth of Milford, instilling strength, and confidence in her students, generations of them.

A star to all who knew her, she now rests in the Westwood Village Memorial Cemetery in Los Angeles with the biggest stars of Hollywood...like our Miss Connie.

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

April 2026

APRIL 17–19

250th Anniversary American Revolution Exhibit

Friday, April 17, 7:00 – 9:00 pm; Saturday, April 18, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; Sunday, April 19, 12:00 – 2:30 PM

Taylor Building Downtown

Featuring 18th century tools and a presentation by Milford’s Continental soldier and diarist Joseph Plumb Martin.

Hosted by the Milford Preservation Trust & Milford Marine Institute

APRIL 17

Jazz Concert Series: Hartford Sound

7:30 - 9:30 pm

MAC Downtown, 40 Railroad Ave

The Hartford Sound, featuring Emmett Goods, lights up the MAC stage with a jazz concert of classic, Latin, and original jazz material.

APR 25

Earth Day on the Green

APR 25

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

12:00 - 3:00 pm, Lisman Landing

The Rape Crisis Center of Milford hosts their 19th Annual Walk a Mile In Her Shoes event in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

APR 25

Milford Regional Chamber of Commerce Home Show

11:00 am - 4:00 pm, Connecticut Post Mall

The home show will display the newest home concepts. Seminars will be held For more info: https://milfordct.com/

May 2026

MAY 1–2

CT Foodie Fest

5:00 pm, Downtown Milford

Presented by the DMBA, food lovers eager to explore Connecticut’s vibrant culinary scene can choose from over 20 food trucks.

MAY 1-2

Smooth Jazz for Scholars

Doors open at 7:00 pm; show at 8:00 pm Veterans Memorial Auditorium

Benefiting music education, the annual benefit concert features eight favorite artists performing over two nights! For info and tickets: https://www. jayrowemusic.com

MAY 2

Milford Striped Bass Club

Annual Trout Fishing Derby

5:30 - 9:30 am; the Duckpond

The Milford Children’s Trout Derby is a longstanding tradition celebrating its 51st year.

MAY 9–10

Milford Artisan’s Market

Milford Green

Over 100 local artisans will be selling their handmade items, including pottery, woodwork, jewelry, natural products, paintings, and more. Rain or shine.

MAY 9

Milford Living 16th Annual Kite Fly

12:00 - 3:00pm, Walnut Beach

The Milford Living Kite Fly has become a springtime tradition! It is a fun, family-friendly day at the beach. Join us again this year as we set our kites into the sky.

MAY 15

Jazz Concert Series: Helen Sung

7:30 - 9:30 pm

MAC Downtown, 40 Railroad Ave

Acclaimed jazz pianist and composer and 2021 Guggenheim Fellow, Helen Sung, brings her sophisticated improvisations to the MAC.

MAY 17

Laurel Beach Casino Orchestra

4:00 pm

MAC Downtown, 40 Railroad Ave

Laurel Beach Casino Orchestra is a 22-piece string ensemble featuring instrumentalists from the New Haven and Meriden Symphonies.

MAY 25-26

Marine History & Science Exhibit

Friday, May 22, 7:00 – 9:00 pm; Saturday, May 23, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; Sunday, May 24, 12:00 – 2:30 pm

Taylor Building Downtown Featuring marine shipping, whaling, and marine biology.

MAY 15–16

Spring Sidewalk Sale

Downtown Milford

Presented by the DMBA

MAY 16

Milford Garden Club Plant Sale

11:30 am, Lisman Landing

MAY 17

Walnut Beach Trunk Market & Car Show

10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Walnut Beach Parking Lot

Sell junk outta your trunk and enjoy some classic and modern cars. Food trucks, live DJ, and more!

MAY 22 – JUN 26 (FRIDAYS)

Fridays After Five Concert Series

Fowler Field

Hosted by Milford Regional Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by Joseph Tramuta

MAY 24

Memorial Day Parade

Downtown Milford; step off at Parsons Complex 2:00 pm

MAY 28

Rock the Dock Presented by Bridges Healthcare 5:30 pm, Lisman Landing

MAY 30

Milford United Way Duck Race 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Fowler Field and Milford Harbor

JUNE

JUNE 6 – OCT 10 (SATURDAYS)

Farmers’ Market at Wasson Field Sponsored by the DMBA

JUNE 5–7

United Methodist Church Fair on the Green

Friday, June 5, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm; Saturday, June 6, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Milford Green

JUNE 7

Pirate’s Day

10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Downtown Milford Presented by DMBA. Ahoy mateys! There be Pirates in Milford. Join in for a family-friendly day of adventure, treasure, and more at this festive event!

JUNE 13

Charles Island Sup Cup

8:00 am, Walnut Beach

Beach yoga, LIVE music, food trucks, cold plunge/ sauna, on-water races, skills competition, paddle clinics, cash prizes, and memories made.

JUNE 15

Milford Concert Band Gulf Beach

Age Has Privileges

In 1970, the Milford Senior Center (MSC) was established with the goal of giving older residents a place where they can have fun, make friends, and engage in their favorite pastimes while being well supported. The MSC operates with the Milford Council on Aging, a group of dedicated individuals driven by a mission to “Serve the specialized needs of Milford’s senior population,” advocating for diversity and inclusivity in all respects.

The two groups collaborate for the best possible experiences for Milford’s older residents, working together to ensure that their original purpose

remains strong.

According to executive director Leonora Rodriguez, a senior center is a “community-based hub that

Members show up and show out in their very best gowns and with stunning smiles.

supports the local aging population by providing a third space where recreational, educational, and healthbased services take place.” Our Milford Senior Center fits that exact definition. In fact, Rodriguez notes that Milford’s Senior Center is one Connecticut’s most comprehensive centers, recently earning the the designation

of “Community Focal Point” from Connecticut Age Well Collaborative, an initiative dedicated to advancing age, dementia, and disability inclusivity across the state.

Working hand in hand with the Board of Directors of the Senior Center, the nine members that serve the Council on Aging are carefully selected by the mayor for two-year terms, though several members dedicate even more of their time. Phil Caporusso, the current vice chair, has been part of the group for over two decades. “We are all members of the Milford community at large, all from different backgrounds,” Caporusso explains. “We bring our talents,

Members spark friendships within the Center that extends beyond its four walls.

experiences and insight to improve the lives of our senior community.”

The Milford Senior Center is the hub where all those goals come to life. It’s a place of community, a place to make connections that feel as

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though they’ve been there all along, which is emphasized in everything it offers, from activities and food-based programs to social services. Each month, a newsletter keeps members informed about what the coming

Led by Dr. Charles Guglin, MD, FACS – Over 40 years of medical expertise.

Personalized Peptide Programs – Customized formulations sourced from trusted compounding pharmacies.

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SENIOR CORNER

weeks have to offer. Nestled within its pages is practical information like the food menu, upcoming events, class schedules, and holiday parties, as well as the “Cultural Corner,” an opportunity to share a piece of yourself and your history.

A wide variety of activities are available, including music groups, pickleball, puzzles, ceramics, and knitting. Members are encouraged to pitch programs, which is how several activities have become center staples. There is free Wi-Fi and computer access, and even a program (S.T.A.Y) that teaches seniors how to confidently use technology.

The MSC prides itself on its accessibility and extending offerings beyond its walls. Past trips stretch to the far corners of Connecticut: Mohegan Sun, Stew Leonard’s, the Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum, the Housatonic Art Museum, and Cowboy Al’s to name just a few. Transportation is available on weekdays when booked in advance for medical appointments, food shopping, and travel back and forth to the center.

Because aging often brings additional needs, the MSC offers social services including paperwork assistance, referrals to in-house and external providers, and medical equipment

loans. And it doesn’t stop at practical assistance; friendly calls/check-ins, support groups, and counseling are offered. In addition, the Ahrens Respite Program offers activities like animal, recreation, and music therapies for individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s or related dementia. Open to any Milford resident over the age of 55 and/or a disabled adult for just $25 annually, the Milford Senior Center extends its reach to surrounding towns for $45 a year on a waitlist basis. In honor of those who have served our country, the Center now offers a Veteran’s discount. Additionally, there is a new membership category for

Fl e x i b l e H o u r l y Ca re Ava i l a b l e

Members are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities, like this terrarium class. For information about any of the

older adults who are housing insecure or unhoused. (A permanent address was previously required to begin membership).

The Milford Senior Center is a space of belonging, and the doors are open to a wide range of residents. As Rodriguez says, “It’s not just a building with great recreational activities and an affordable lunch. It’s a community, filled with the most passionate staff and volunteers I have ever had the pleasure to work alongside.”

Open Sunday through Friday, Milford’s Senior Center can become your second home. It will be waiting for you.

—Haley McNish

Adult Day Programs

Bridgeport ■ Stratford

■ Nurse-Supervised Day Program

■ Medication Management

■ Activities, Exercise and Music

■ Nutritious Meals and Snack

■ Bilingual Staff and Programming*

■ Physical, Speech and Occupational, Therapy on site**

*Stratford location only

**Bridgeport location only

Companions & Homemakers A Non-Medical Agency

■ Staff Electronic Visit Verification (formerly Sunset Shores)

For more information: Bridgeport: 203-365-6470

Stratford: 203-380-1228 adultday@mozaicsl.org

■ Meals, Preparation, Housekeeping, Laundry, and Errands

■ Transportation to Appointments

■ Assistance with Personal Care and Activities of Daily Living

■ Medication Reminders

■ Flexible Scheduling 4 to 24 Hours

For more information, call 203-396-1136 homecare@mozaicsl.org

mozaicsl.org

Lauralton Hall Turns 120

As parochial schools in Connecticut consolidate and close doors, Milford’s Lauralton Hall continues its mission: to empower young women to pursue their highest potential. That credo resonates especially strong as the all-girls high school celebrates its 120th anniversary.

“For 120 years we’ve been an allgirls school, and we’re dedicated to remaining one,” says Beth Coyne, head of school. “We find for this age, for girls, it’s a transformative experience.”

Lauralton Hall was founded in 1905, when the Sisters of Mercy purchased the High Street property where the campus stands today. The Roman

Catholic order dates back to the 1800s in Dublin, Ireland, when social reformer Catherine McAuley established a settlement house for women and children.

A glimpse into Lauralton’s legacy of curiosity and courage, inspiring students to think critically and pursue passions in STEM.

Today, the 25-acre campus spans four buildings, including the Pond-Taylor Mansion, a Victorian Gothic-style

property listed on both the Connecticut and National Registers of Historic Places. The mansion was built in 1864 for businessman Charles Hobby Pond, a descendent of a long line of Milfordites.

Pond later sold it to Henry Augustus Taylor, a banker from New York, who dubbed the mansion “Lauralton Hall” after his mother and daughter, both named Laura. Taylor carried out a large-scale renovation of the property, adding a tower, veranda, and the gleaming mahogany staircase that greets students and visitors today.

Then came January 17, 1905. On that day, Lauralton Hall changed hands again, this time to the Sisters of Mercy, for $35,000 and an agreement to retain the Lauralton name. The Academy of Our Lady of Mercy, Lauralton Hall became the first Catholic college prep school in Connecticut. Twenty-five students enrolled that first year, with four graduating in 1906.

120 years later, on January 17, 2025,

the Lauralton community celebrated the anniversary of that purchase with big half-chocolate, half-vanilla cupcakes, adorned in blue and white frosting, the school’s colors. The celebrations continued throughout the year with anniversary-themed events and a City of Milford Proclamation.

The anniversary will culminate this May with the school’s 120th graduation. Over the years, many remarkable women have crossed that threshold, including longtime Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (’60), the first woman superintendent of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Joanna Nunan (’83), and New York Times-recognized

The porch of Lauralton’s Pond-Taylor Mansion is a place for making memories.

authors Kerry Howley (’99) and Krystal Marquis (’05).

Lauralton has preserved many traditions over the past 120 years. The Pond-Taylor Mansion is still a central fixture, with rooms now serving as

administrative offices and classrooms. Students today receive the same class ring as those from years ago, a black onyx stone bedecked with the Lauralton crest. Seniors also participate in tree plantings on campus and around Milford, a nod to their roots at the school, and to the historic trees on the property.

One of the most enduring traditions, though, is the Lauralton uniform: a navy-blue jumper with a front pleat.

“The uniform has evolved over the years, but it’s certainly one of our traditions that’s most recognizable,” says Kathleen Kearns Donahue, director of advancement and a 1980

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

alumna. “If our girls are downtown grabbing a coffee or pizza or on the train, people know them, and they take pride in that uniform.”

The school now educates more than 250 students from over 30 cities near and far, and the curriculum encompasses both core academics— math, reading, and writing—as well as the arts and emerging technologies such as AI and new media. “The Mercy tradition includes curiosity, personal accountability and critical thinking,” Coyne says. “Those three attributes are embedded in every class.”

As the years pass, generation after generation return to Lauralton,

either as legacy students or alumnae eager to give back. “I work with alumnae across the decades, and it’s been very interesting to see the common bonds that we all have and can relate to, whether someone graduated in the ‘40s or in 2025,” says Kearns Donahue.

“My mother was Class of 1948, along with my sisters and my aunt, Sister

As Lauralton marked its 120th anniversary, Mercy Day honored school tradition and celebrated an inaugural I Love LH Giving Day.

Marylouise (Weezie) Fennell, RSM,” says Mary Lou Auger (’76). “While Lauralton wasn’t initially my first choice, it was very much a part of my family’s story, and I am deeply grateful it became part of mine. In my junior year, I lost my mother, and the support I received from my classmates and the school was extraordinary…It truly is a special place.”

Amanda Veccharelli Managing Partner

Thomas J. Cody Funeral Director

Kevin W. Cody Funeral Director

David J. DeRubeis Funeral Director

Bethany Holly German Funeral Director

Jessica Moscato Funeral Director

Conor Stephenson Funeral Director

Renate K. Eastman Office Manager

Current students echo the sentiments of the classes that came before. “Lauralton has blessed me with new friendships and wonderful teachers, but the greatest gift of all has been the sense of community I’ve found here,” says Grace Dubin, Class of 2029, whose mother, Missy is an alumna of the Class of 1997.

“Seventh- and eighth-graders don’t always want to go to an all-girls school,” says Beth Coyne. “Then they get here and realize they’re getting a sisterhood. We have a lot of legacy families; I think those grandmothers and mothers want to gift that to their daughters.”

—Suzanne Johnson

Our Difference Is | Service | Facilities | Location | Streaming Services Fallen Hero Program | Certified Life Planner/Funeral Director, Thomas Smith Sponsor of the Caring Network Aftercare Program Facilitated by Bridges Healthcare

MILFORD PUZZLE PLAY

Marine Biology Science/Art Camp: A, June 15-19 | B, June 22-26 - Ages 7 & up

Marine Biology Science: C, June 29-July 3 - Ages 12 & up Bird Id Art Camp: July 6-10 - Ages 6 and up Archaeology/Native Culture Camp: A, July 13-17 | B, July 20-24 - Ages 9 and up

MILFORD’S ATTIC MISTRESS ABIGAIL MERWIN

On August 25, 1777, the British naval warship HMS Swan, under the command of Captain James Ayscough, anchored about a mile off Milford’s Pond Point to steal cattle.

Milford’s 17-mile coastline made the town susceptible to British foraging parties in need of fresh food. The British controlled Long Island throughout the American Revolution, from the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776 to the end of the war in 1783. This gave them access to both shores of Long Island Sound, where they confiscated farm animals and sometimes burned crops and houses. Milford farmers, aware that the British knew of the town’s patriot leanings, had moved their cattle into the tall salt marshes near Pond Point.

The story passed down through Milford’s history is that Mistress Abigail Merwin was hanging laundry outside her house overlooking the Point, and saw a raiding party of about 40 men with rifles coming ashore.

Legend has it that Mistress Merwin grabbed her baby, hitched her wagon, and raced into town banging on a copper pot to raise the alarm that “the British are coming!”

Meanwhile, angered at finding no livestock, the soldiers damaged furniture and broke windows at the Merwin home.

The local militia responded quickly, and the British made a fast retreat, securing only a hog and some cheeses from the Merwin buttery. According to the captain’s log that day, “Sent boats on Shore [at 4 am], Mand & Armd to bring off some cattle…At 7 the boats Returned…got no Cattle.”

Mistress Merwin went down in Milford’s history, and the swamp where the cattle had been hidden has been known as Calf Pen Meadow ever since.

—Katie Murphy Photographer: Dan Purcell

Milford’s Attic features items at the Milford Historical Society. If you would like to donate any documents, photos, jewelry, dishware, or objects built or used in early Milford, please contact the MHS at (203) 874-2664.

Abigail Beach Merwin, the wife of the fifth Miles Merwin, is included on this Merwin family needlepoint in the Milford Historical Society’s collections. The tapestry and map show the Merwin homestead high on the hill above Pond Point, on land granted to the original Miles Merwin around 1660 on the “Indian Side” of the Milford settlement. For 16 generations, the Merwin family owned the land that is now known as Pond Point, Morningside, Merwin’s Point, and Woodmont.

GREETINGS FROM MILFORD Checkmate

OOn August 14, 1945, John H. Devine III of Milford mailed his latest chess moves in his continuing postal game with Mr. M.E. Zinman of Chautauqua, NY at 8:30 am. Postal, or correspondence chess, was a popular way to play against enthusiasts all over the world for decades. Humphrey Bogart, said to be an expert chess player, played against G.I.’s throughout WWII. Mr. Devine couldn’t know that what he would remember most about that day was not his move (Knight to B4), but that some 10 hours later, President Harry S. Truman would announce that the Japanese had surrendered, and WWII was finally at an end.

—Ann McGuire

Know the answer to this issue’s Where is It?

Enter for a chance to win a Milford Living subscription. Send your answer (along with your name and address) to: suzanne@milfordliving.com Two lucky winners will be chosen at random.

?where is it?

Answer to last issue’s quiz:

The decorative base of the fountain built into the meridian on Broad Street.

Thank you Milford for voting us the best of Milford!

Hello Spring! Please stay Forever!

We will be Open Mid March for early spring flowers such as pansies, and cold crop veggie plants!! We are Officially open the end of April for our spring season! We are Open 9am-5pm seven days a week, we have a huge selection of Annuals, perennials, Veggie starter plants, Shrubbery and so much more! Happy 250th Birthday America!

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