Archives for December 2014

story & photos

by Alexis Ann

The Waterford Commons shopping area on Route 85 is now host to Smashburger, an international “better burger” franchise. This is Smashburger’s first location in Connecticut, and plans are underway for expansion in the Rhode Island and Massachusetts markets.
Smashburger Waterford did brisk business after opening to the public during the post-Thanksgiving weekend, and The Resident attended a special private “media night” on December 3 as Christine Ferris of the Smashburger group presented an array of tasty sandwich and sides samples. Members of the Mohegan Tribal Council also joined in on the fun, as the restaurant is part of a new franchise agreement that the Tribe has entered into with its new non-gaming business arm Mohegan Holdings LLC.
In addition to Smashburger sandwiches with beef, chicken and vegetarian options, attendees of the event were treated to a variety of side dishes. Smashburger takes the “french fries” concept to the next level, offering sweet potato and vegetable fries, along with the signature “Smashfries” tossed in olive oil, rosemary and garlic. Also available are fried pickles and “haystack” onion rings. Handspun old-fashioned milkshakes are served in a frothy glass with whipped cream, and come in a variety of flavors with Haagen-Dazs ice cream, and on December 3 samples of the Oreo and Salted Caramel shakes proved to be a great way to cap off the evening.
The Waterford restaurant is located in an area of the Commons adjacent to the Music and Arts and Sprint stores. It is 2,560 sq. ft. and has seating for 76 patrons – including outdoor seating for when the weather warms up. Smashburger’s home base is in Denver, and it is a rapidly growing business, going from 0 to 301 restaurants in the space of seven years, with the Waterford location being #301. World-wide, Smashburger operates in seven counties and employs between 6,000 and 9,000 team members.
The Waterford restaurant will provide over 40 jobs to area residents, and is already showing a commitment to southeastern Connecticut which fits with the the company’s philosophy of allying with the businesses and flavors of the region. The “Constitution Smashburger” pays tribute to the area’s Italian-American flavors, served on a crusty Ciabatta Bun, and featuring provolone cheese, mayo, pesto, baby spinach, and a peppery Giardinera relish. Asked for suggestions about which regional flavor might be included in the BBQ burgers, the Smashburger folks got a quick answer from us – Nutmeg! In the beverage department, Smashburger has gone very local, and features Mystic River IPA from the Mystic Brewing Company! Other available beverages run the gamut from Coca-Cola to Chardonnay.
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Story & photos

by James Brady

The recent nor’easter wasn’t going to stop Wreaths Across America from making its journey from Harrington, Maine, the home of the Worcester Wreath Co. to Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

The WAA 13+ truck convoy, escorted by CT and Maine State Troopers, made a scheduled stop at the Mohegan Sun Casino. Mohegan Tribal Chairman Kevin Brown (US Army Colonel retired) along with Mohegan Tribal Chief Lynn Malerba lead the ceremony with inspiring words and native prayer. St. Bernard School Headmaster Don Macrino spoke of the tremendous honor as well. The St. Bernard School Choir and Band, lead by Music Director Caitlin Meyer, performed renditions of the National Anthem and God Bless America that were most fitting the WAA event.

At age 12, Morrill Worcester, the owner of Worcester Wreath Company, won a trip to Washington, DC. The experience was so profound, that several decades earlier, in 1992, he had a surplus of wreaths. Worcester arranged for them to be placed in Arlington National Cemetery. He requested that the wreaths be placed at grave stones in an older section of the cemetery where there are fewer visitors each year. Today they will place over 500,000 memorial wreaths in 545 locations across the US and beyond.

Every aspect of Wreaths Across America is inspiring to me as a citizen and a CT State Trooper: the assignment by Editor/Publisher of the Resident, Alexis Ann (US Army Captain retired); speaking with my friend Chairman Kevin Brown, retired Army Colonel; my conversations with Don Macrino. Headmaster St Bernard School, not a veteran himself, but whose dad and brother served, and whose grandfather served and is buried at Arlington not far from JFK; my own dear friend, Dan Sweeney, who died and was buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery… This story, this subject and the unselfish act by a man who came to inspire a nation, turning a surplus of wreaths into an unstoppable movement of honor and dedication; of volunteers, some veterans, many not, working for one common noble experience… Well folks, though not a military veteran myself, as a retired Trooper, bearing witness to greatness, never ever gets old…it is what will always make us the best!

Remember, Honor, and Teach… Remembering our fallen heroes, honoring those who serve, and teaching our children about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families.

Story & photos

by Barbara Park

On a seasonable and chilly December Sunday, Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program (JYSEP) members and their mentors dedicated their recently completed stairway mural at 77 Main Street in Norwich. “Peacock Alley” features a beautiful peacock designed by New London artist Gordon Arzu that stretches the height of the forty-five stairs that connect Water Street to Main Street.

The Norwich Community Development Corporation (NCDC) gave the go-ahead for JYSEP to paint the mural, a project that took almost three months. JYSEP members including Jennifer Moreria, Claire Val-Files, Z’Anna Phillips, and Ivana Etienne, spent four weekends painting the initial base of white paint, and then laid in areas that are one color. The finished work includes bright and dark blues, vivid green, and orange. Detail work was completed by Gordon Arzu and Stephanie Fielding, secretary of the NCDC Board of Directors and an “animator” of the JYSEP Sandy Lane group, which has membership for ages 11-14 and meets every Sunday. The group is sponsored by Bahá’ís of Norwich, and mural funds came from the Regional Bahá’í Council and donations.

Stephanie describes the process as “more difficult than we thought it would be when we started. Keeping the lines from one step to the next required one person to be at the bottom of the stairs directing and another at the top drawing the lines.” The peacock is meant to symbolize “justice and integrity,” Stephanie says. JYSEP members at the dedication ceremony say that they see “art [as a way] to express our feelings” and tell people about the service project that adds welcome flair to Norwich’s historic downtown.

JYSEP “animators” Shelley Rothman, Ben Jacobowitz, Judith Post, and Stephanie Fielding accompanied the youth group kids to a pizza party at LaStella’s, up the street from the mural, as guests of the NCDC after the dedication ceremony.

story and photos

by James Brady

 

Ok folks… so let me set the scene…Picture a small hometown school over a river and train tracks, up a winding road on a side hill and you may well be at the Sayles School, Baltic CT, USA. On October 24, 2014 you would find children enjoying lunch as they would any other day…until 7th grade students Amber Discolo and Madison Gifford alerted lunch monitor Samantha Ross, a student achievement specialist, that a fellow student was choking. Ross immediately sprang into action, applying abdominal thrusts to student Tommy Smith, who was choking on his lunch.

While Ross instinctively assisted the choking student, another monitor alerted School Nurse Patrice Houle, who ran to the cafeteria. “I thank God for my other ears and eyes throughout the school,” said Patrice who has been the school nurse for more than 10 years. The District has made available funds for CPR training that more than 30 of the 70 faculty have benefited from. As a result, they are prepared. Sayles School prinicipal Jeanne Wierzbinski, noted that this is the second time since 2011 that a faculty member has assisted a choking student.

Baltic Fire Engine Company #1 member Donna Sanford and Fire Chief Les Shull appeared for today’s awards ceremony in their dress uniforms. Sanford according to the Chief is responsible for the ceremony recognizing Samantha Ross, Amber Discolo, and Madison Gifford for their selfless acts resulting in the saving of              Tommy Smith’s life…Tommy told us all so fittingly, “Ms. Ross saved my day!”

by Christopher Annino

In the sport of Body building the athletes are chiselled titans carved out of the very Old School Iron no nonsense gyms that they are from. It takes dedication, discipline and drive of someone who super human to compete. But the strongest athlete in the world can always be at the mercy of what life will throw at them. Nationally ranked NPC Physique competitor Nikki Lee was diagnosed with cancer over a year ago.

Nikki Lee originally lived in Mystic but moved to New Hampshire at a young age. There she obtained an interest in athletics. Always being outgoing, Nikki was the first female amateur wrestler in the state of New Hampshire. Wonder Woman is one of Nikki’s hero’s growing up embodied Empowered. Nikki then trained to be a pro wrestler by Pro Wrestling Legend Ox Baker. Nikki was a success on the Indy Pro Wrestling circuit. However, Nikki decided to focus on earning a college degree and raising her children.

Despite her busy schedule as a trainer and founder of “Empowered” Nikki took time to help those in need. Nikki volunteers her time at venue’s to teach proper nutrition, she is also heavily involved as a youth coach. As a result of her service in the community Nikki was the 2014 recipient of the Connie Durfee memorial Award. Nikki has gained many friends over the years because of her kindheartedness. Therefore, when her diagnoses was made public, local celebrities such as Diana Lozowski, WWE Legend John Callahan, Roxanne Mathena, Walter Bad News Swan, Jeff Wade, Richard Cyr, Dawn Whitham, Kevin Hogan and Janet Peckinpaugh got together to help her financially. A community awards variety show was established through the CT Hall of Honor and it was hosted by The Resident Newspaper but held at the Mystic VFW. The money raised helped Nikki financially during her treatments. Nikki is now cancer free, and to show her appreciation to her hometown. Nikki Lee is stepping back into the ring for a Pro Wrestling Event and variety show to help benefit two local military veterans at the Mystic VFW. Nikki will be tagging with U.S. Champion Rescue 911 and together they have formed Tag Team “911” and they will be going against “The Outlaws” for the VPW Tag Title “when I found out these two veterans were in need I felt obligated to get back in the ring to help them. I was told once by New London strongman Joseph Mugovero “everyone has strength, but what makes you strong is when you use it for good” and I want to help these two war hero’s. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart Alexis Ann from The Resident Newspaper and The Mystic VFW for hosting my fundraiser. You helped me when the odds were against me and empowered me to beat cancer,” said Nikki Lee.

story and photos

by Josie Kapral

 

The holiday spirit was alive and well as Bruce Morrow, General Manager of Valenti Subaru and PAWS New England teamed up to give some furry friends a chance at finding a “FURever home” in time for the holidays. Most people who know Bruce also know his dog, Dakota, who also made an appearance at the adoption event held on November 22nd. Dakota was there to see that some of his fellow dogs and even a few kittens and bunnies would find their way to a new home.

“I tried to host this event before, but it just never worked out with the timing”, said Bruce as he sat with Dakota,” I am happy to help them out”.

Tammy Loughlin, the Westerly Animal Shelter Manager, and a team of wonderful and generous volunteers and foster families came to see the animals were cared for while several people strolled in and out of the dealership greeting the animals and playing with them. PAWS brought along a few of their star pets in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. There was really a pet for everyone. All the animals were well behaved and greeted their potential new owners with a wag of their tails.

Julie Hocking came with her foster dog, Chip described as a “huggable, lovable, snuggle bear”. Although, not quite the size of a bear, his ten pound frame held just as much love as an animal just as big. Chip, the 1 year old Chihuahua mix has been living with Julie and is ready to find a new home. When asked if she would miss him once he is adopted, Julie replied, “I will. But I will also be very happy for Chip. And that also means that I can foster another dog which is a good thing.”

If you were interested in a younger dog, Macy, an 18 week old female Shepard Mix, was also available and came ready with her “Adopt Me” bandana.

Younger dogs and puppies not your thing? Fozzie, a 5 year old Rottweiler, was also there. Fozzie was very gentle and mild mannered and sat at the feet of his handlers patiently waiting for a new home.

If you aren’t a dog person, that’s not a problem. PAWS also brought along two really adorable 12 week old kittens who just loved to be held. There were a few rabbits available too!

One of the happiest moments of the day came when Diane Gilman and Mark Perino of Westerly came in to see the dogs. They found Curry, one of the most popular dogs of the day. Curry’s friendly demeanor loveable attitude were sure to win someone over and it turned out to be them!

Some people go to dealerships for a new car or an oil change, some come for a pet, and some visit the dealership for both!

Some of the dogs are still available for adoption and if you would like to visit with them, you can visit the PAWS New England website (www.pawsnewengland.com/adopt) or contact Tammy Loughlin at the Westerly Animal Shelter (401)584-7941. PAWS New England is comprised entirely of volunteers and 99 cents of every dollar donated goes to the care of animals like these. If you would like to volunteer or make a donation to a great organization, you can also contact them via the website mentioned above.

by Jon Perrson

Steve Jones is known for telling a good story, but picking a single storyline about Steve Jones is another matter. His life’s voyage has taken many a tack to reach the safe harbors of his realized ambitions. The diverse views of port and starboard, of working man and intellectual, bring with them a collection of knowledge and experiences that mark a life of many satisfactions. And stories, the revered teaching tool of gathered wisdom.

To find Steve Jones on a late November afternoon, one must first find an iron gate, fashioned by a blacksmith from Mystic Seaport, topped with the letters FHP. Through this, a walkway leads to the back door which leads past a vintage wooden steering wheel and station. Stairs beckon one to the offices where Steve Jones sits waiting. There are books and boat models, and photographs, all arranged in the efficient clutter so misunderstood by the obsolescent modern time manager. Steve knows where everything is, and no one else needs to; it is the mark of a productive mind in constant motion.

Steve was introduced to boats and life on the water by his father, Edward Jones, who owned and sailed a string of sailboats throughout his life (“he swapped boats every two years,” recalls Steve.) For years the Jones crew sailed out of Essex, on the Connecticut River; there, young Steve met two men who would influence his view on life; Major William Smythe, who ran the Dauntless Shipyard, and Seth Persson, boat builder of Old Saybrook.

To honor his military service requirement, Steve joined the Coast Guard, where he served as a lighthouse keeper and crew at a lifeboat station on Delaware Bay. He recounts how there are no buoys on that lengthy stretch of water, only the lighthouses to keep the vigilant out of the surrounding shoals.

After leaving the Coast Guard, Steve worked for a time at the Mystic Marine Railway, in which his father had become a partner. These were the days of wooden boats, always in need of some amount of tinkering and tasks. But life afloat held sway, and on another tack Steve went lobstering, singlehanded on a traditional Noank boat with offset pilothouse, powered by a Lathrop engine, the local engine of choice.

These experiences continue to chart his life, and his work, the line between vocation and avocation often difficult to discern. Into this stream, a love of literature joins in, words flowing with the wakes of time spent working on lobsterboats, the waters of his cruising grounds reflecting passages of Shakespeare’s verse and rhyme.

At the University of Connecticut, Steve earned his degree in English, and acted out the world of Shakespeare’s words. His story remains on course with the university, as he continues a now decades long career as Professor Stephen Jones, at UConn’s Avery Point campus. There he teaches English, the works of Shakespeare, and courses in Coastal and Maritime Studies, which he championed into existence. His depth of knowledge and experience, coupled with his flair for storytelling, have earned him the highest praise a teacher may receive; that of his students, who rate him (at ratemyprofessor.com) as “the best English professor ever,” saying they “still think about things he taught me everyday.” And, a life’s lesson, “don’t be afraid of going on boats.”

Professor Jones continues his double-life as a literate boatman, being a founding co-owner of the West Mystic Wooden Boat Co. Here, people with an attraction to the wooden hulled boats of yore find a place to work on their prized projects, away from the mass production dreams of fiberglass and chrome.

Steve recounts how a young business-school type once defamed the old time boatyards of Steve Jones’ enlightened youth, an encounter which played a part in the founding of the boatyard. He has of late been inspired to write the story of his old fashioned boatyard, enough for the makings of a book on the subject.

There are other stories at this boatyard, filled with weathered characters also, and a boatyard cat, it seems; and, there are the old books of nautical feats and mariner’s lives, no longer published for the informing of younger generations.

And so it was, on another tack, that Steve and fellow mariner Robert McKenna formed Flat Hammock Press in 2001. The independent publishing company revives and reprints the maritime stories of the past, beginning with a series on the Prohibition rum runners of another era. Work continues on an extended story of The Real McCoy, a teetotaling boatbuilder turned rum runner who brought a mariner’s integrity to the smuggler’s trade.

Steve also edits books for some of the characters turned authors of his world; and he writes books, about the 1883 oyster boat Anne, restored and stewarded by the boatyard . There are illustrated children’s books about a boatyard cat named Scratch. And, due for publishing next year, a book on the timeless boatyard Steve and a cast of non-conforming characters have carved out on the Mystic River.

Words and action are a short tack away from film, a venue where Steve has enjoyed considerable and ongoing success. A series of documentaries have aired on Public Television, with a work on the rum running Real McCoy winning five Emmy awards. Next year, a documentary will air on the ferry boats of the Connecticut River, including the nation’s oldest at Rocky Hill.

On this now cool November evening, Steve Jones leads the way out of the offices of the Flat Hammock Press, located in the brick building which once housed part of the Lathrop Engine manufacturing plant. The buildings now house a restaurant and stores, and a link to a time when engines and boats were both local products. Across the street, Schooner Wharf hosts an array of vessels, the schooner Argia, the Alden cutter that Ed Jones sold in 1947 as a vessel too old to keep. At pier’s end is a rectangular vessel with handrails at each rail, an actor that with props and makeup plays the role of several generation’s ferry boats in Steve’s upcoming documentary.

Steve is as often at work on projects which carry the historic into a new round of living memory. Often he has personal connections to the public service her performs. For most people, a lighthouse is a picturesque and vaguely romantic structure on a lonely, windswept coast. For a former lighthouse keeper, lighthouses are both the apparatus of a sacred mission, and the home of fond and dramatic memories. When Groton’s Avery Point Light was under restoration, Steve and his son donated the labor to rebuild the lantern room, lighting if momentarily a beacon once again to the sailors and sightseers of the professor’s favored seas.

To some, Steve Jones may seem a paradox, a man always intent on present and future projects which tell the tales of the salt and earthy past. The purpose is clear, though; to keep memory alive of course, but also to bring a time of simple living to the complex lives of his young readers and students.

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