Mystic Times

‘Dog at Work’: The Mystic & Noank Library Begins Dog Reading Program

Kristal Spence — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 18:07:20 GMT

Roberta Donahue, children’s librarian at the Mystic & Noank Library, says research has shown that children are often reluctant to read out loud to teachers or peers, but are often willing to interact with animals.

“When asked to read to a dog, for example, they often forget their limitations and are very motivated to read as the dogs sit quietly and listen,” she said in a recent press release. “Using therapy dogs has been proven to motivate children to read.”

What better reason to bring a dog into the children’s library? The local library has done just that with its new program, “Sit! Stay! Read!” which includes the use of therapy dogs while children read. The 15-minute time slots are filling up fast and children are pushing their parents to bring them to the library.

“The goal is to create a positive, non-threatening, and fun environment in which reading is facilitated,” Donahue said. “All dogs used in this way are highly trained, professionally groomed, and covered by insurance. These dogs are all therapy dogs, who are part of a group called WAGS (Wonderful Animals Giving Support). The dog owners volunteer to offer their dogs for this purpose. The therapy dog’s trainer will be present at all times. The trainer is not a reading tutor, but an observer.”

Third-grader Steven Devoe, 8, of Pawcatuck, calmly sat and read July 16 to yellow Labrador retriever Bella and owner/trainer Barbara Cambria.
“You can pet her when you read, too,” Cambria said to Devoe, who smiled and began to pet Bella.

“He’s been really talking about it forever,” Devoe’s mother, Jennifer, whispered as she watched her son read. “It’s his first day that he’s been able to do this, so he’s wanted to get here all day.”

Cambria later explained that Donahue began the program at the library in November 2006 based on a suggestion by Mystic resident Amy Bush.

“Amy and her black Labrador retriever, Lucy, are registered Pet Partners with the international organization known as Delta Society,” Cambria explained. Amy and her dog Lucy are members of WAGS.

“Currently, there are five WAGS teams participating in the July 2008 program,” Cambria continued, mentioning Bush, Justine Francese, Paula Furber, and Carol Majewski.

“Our WAGS group is an experienced volunteer group of professionally trained and registered members of Delta Society and Therapy Dogs International, Inc. Over the past six years, we have spent thousands of hours with our canine companions in numerous social and educational environments, and health-care facilities. Since 2002, WAGS is the lead group and volunteers weekly in the animal visiting program at L&M Hospital in New London and in the complementary medicine program of CHI at Backus Hospital, Norwich.”

Now experienced and having visited numerous places from classrooms and hospitals to libraries and nursing homes, Cambria said she’s done therapy dog work for about 11 years and has two therapy dogs, Bella and Maya. She said she first thought of pursuing therapy work when she noticed how much conversation and attention Maya would get in public. Though she found joy in sharing Maya, she admitted that training Bella was difficult.

“Bella was difficult because she’s a field variety dog and pays attention to everything that surrounds her,” she explained.

Now 7 years old, Bella was given to Cambria when she was only 7 weeks. After a while, Bella was nicknamed Sea Biscuit based off the movie and her contagious sense of excitement.

“Her whole body would move when she wagged her tail,” Cambria said, describing Bella’s behavior.

Cambria would train Bella every day and never gave up on her because Cambria knew Bella would have to pass a test to become a real certified therapy dog.

“Every two years we have to pass a very rigorous test as a team,” Cambria explained, rubbing Bella’s neck. “The dog has to be predictable around walkers, crutches, when strangers pet them…and when two dogs are around each other, they can’t play with each other.”

After intense training and dedication, Cambria said Bella finally caught on. On Wednesday, Bella listened to the stories read to her and performed her entertaining tricks.

“She only does tricks for treats,” Cambria said. “Let’s see if we can do the famous tissue out of the box trick…Ahhhh-chooo!”

Bella responded, pulling a tissue out of a tissue box with her teeth and lifting it to Cambria’s hand.

“Good girl!” Cambria told Bella. “She’s a wonderful dog when you get her attention…a very excited and happy dog,” Cambria later said. “You can never feel sad being around Bella…I truly believe that the animal-assisted activities, in which my dogs Maya and Bella facilitate, enrich the lives of the people that we meet…even if for just brief moments. I feel privileged to be able to be present and bring joy and well-being to those whom they meet.”

Brigid Kunka, 6, of St. Michael’s School, was next to read to Bella. She eagerly looked for a book. Her mother, Molly, said Brigid had just finished kindergarten and heard about the program from visiting the library, which they do frequently because they live right next door.

“The program’s great,” Molly said, adding that she hopes the program will help her daughter continue her excitement of learning how to read.
“Plus she loves dogs.”

Time slots to read to a dog for 15-minute intervals are available on any of the following dates and times: July 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. and July 28 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Mystic & Noank Library is at 40 Library Street, Mystic. The library is open Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact the Children’s Room at 860-536-7721.

Annual Antique & Classic Boat Rendezvous: Mystic Seaport showcases the past

Kristal Spence — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:42:00 GMT

Look out for traffic at the end of the month as visitors and local residents fill the streets of downtown Mystic to catch sight of about 50 classic and antique boats floating down the Mystic River for Mystic Seaport’s 33rd annual Antique & Classic Boat Rendezvous.

Rain or shine, spokesperson Mike O’Farrell said antique vessels built before 1965, including cruisers, sailboats, runabouts and launches, will be on display at Mystic Seaport Saturday, July 26, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., as well as the following Sunday morning.

While the boats sit near the dock, O’Farrell said, visitors will have the chance to talk to the owners, learn about the different boats, how they were restored, and their history.

During the weekend, an award competition will recognize excellence in restoration, authenticity, and workmanship.

“Sunday at 12:45 p.m., the vessels leave the museum for a three-mile parade down the historic Mystic River,” O’Farrell said in a prepared statement.

The most traditional element of the event is on Sunday when 2,000 to 3,000 people line the streets by the river. Boat crews in the past, he said, have arrived in costume to fit the period of when their antique boats were made.
“It’s a pretty cool visual thing, and I think it’s probably the one time when people don’t mind the bridge being up for a while,” O’Farrell said, laughing. “It becomes very much a community event because people line both sides of the river to watch this. It’s a Mystic Seaport thing and a community thing wrapped into one.”

As boats float by, a narrator stationed at the Mystic River Park will announce the boats’ names and other tidbits of information, such as their owners, their history, and their age.

“Leading the parade will be the [Maritime] Museum’s own steamboat Sabino, this year’s featured vessel who is celebrating her centennial anniversary,” O’Farrell said in a release. “Built in East Boothbay, Maine, in 1908, Sabino entered service for the Damariscotta Steamboat Company and spent her days delivering passengers to the numerous hotels along the Damariscotta River. In 1975, the steamer arrived at Mystic Seaport and began a new era of passenger service. The significant restoration and meticulous care she received at the museum was recognized in 1992 when Congress designated Sabino a National Historic Landmark. As one of the last wooden, coal-fired steamboats still in operation, Sabino continues to offer Mystic Seaport visitors half-hour and 90-minute cruises mid-May through Columbus Day.”

“The story of the boat is fascinating,” O’Farrell later said, “including the fact that this 100-year-old boat was built in Maine and its original engine was built in Noank. To celebrate some of the history, we’re also doing special down-river cruises. We are doing three programs two times each,” he continued, mentioning dates that are scheduled throughout July and August.

For more information about the Antique & Classic Boat Rendezvous, visit www.mysticseaport.org.

Additional Programs at Mystic Seaport

Every Monday in July, kids age 17 and younger, with a limit of four kids per paying adult, can visit Mystic Seaport for free during their “Kids Free Admission Day” program.

“Mystic Seaport is an unparalleled family destination,” said President and Director of the Maritime Museum Doug Teeson in a recent press release. “In light of rising gas prices and continued economic uncertainty, it is our goal to ensure that all families have the opportunity to experience the richness of Mystic Seaport this season.”

“Mystic Seaport offers numerous family-friendly activities throughout the summer,” O’Farrell added. “In addition to the museum’s historic tall ships and diverse exhibits, kids enjoy playing in the Children’s Museum, discovering stars in the Planetarium, getting out on the water, or enjoying a horse and carriage ride. Additionally, kids can take part in a participatory play about whaling, create their own maritime masterpiece in the Art Spot activity center, and even make their own toy boat as part of the new Hands-On History Program. Other elements of the Hands-On History Program provide opportunities for kids and parents to work together while dipping candles, pressing flowers, or even working over the forge in the Shipsmith Shop.”

“Kids Free Admission Day” is not transferable and is subject to change without notice.

Later this month, the seaport’s annual Moby-Dick Marathon will begin Thursday, July 31 at noon, when participants will read all 135 chapters of Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick in 24 hours at Mystic Seaport aboard the Charles W. Morgan.

“A role-player portraying Melville begins the marathon by reciting the novel’s first chapter on the performance stage next to the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whale ship in the world,” O’Farrell stated. “The reading then moves aboard the vessel and visitors can sign up to read a chapter as the marathon continues until its conclusion August 1. The marathon ends with the arrival of a birthday cake at noon on August 1, celebrating Melville’s birthday.”

Several copies of the novel will be available for visitors to peruse. The marathon is free with admission and a limited number of spots are available for those interested in spending the night aboard the Morgan. Advanced registration is required by calling 860-572-5331.

The Mystic Seaport is located one mile south of Exit 90 off I-95 in Mystic and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $18.50 for adults and $13 for children ages 6 to 17. Children age 5 and younger are admitted for free. For more information, call 888-973-2767 or visit www.mysticseaport.org.

Images of Time Gone: Mystic author recalls childhood in St. Thomas

Kristal Spence — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:39:30 GMT

Lynda Wesley McLaughlin was 8 years old when she traveled with her parents from their home in Groton to the Virgin Islands, where her father had accepted a one-year construction contract. After falling in love with St. Thomas, McLaughlin said her family decided to stay there permanently. Wesley described the change of life on her Web site as a journey that would afford her the opportunity to enjoy life in a different culture, enriched by a harmonious blend of people of different races and varying social situations.

After 42 years in St. Thomas, McLaughlin returned to the United States, to Mystic, 12 years ago.

“Living there was a very unique and, for me, a privileged experience,” McLaughlin said. “I found it was the most wonderful experience to be able to live in another culture and experience another culture.”

Over the years, she said many people would ask her what was it like to live in St. Thomas, and she always found it hard to explain the island. She said she would describe it as having a metropolitan flavor, a great deal of diversity, and an intimate community, yet she still felt as though her desription never seemed to illuminate her memories. Instead of using mere words, she decided to publish a picture-book called Time Gone, through the Thames Printing Company Inc. in Norwich.

“I began painting scenes as I remembered them from my childhood in St. Thomas, and the idea of the book evolved,” McLaughlin said. “Perhaps Time Gone will give people an idea of what it was like. Researching the book for authentic details put me in touch with old friends, and the project became a reward in itself. I tried to make the illustrations in my book as true to the period as possible, relying on old photos, postcards, and materials in some of the commemorative issues of local St. Thomas newspapers."

A self-taught artist, McLaughlin used acrylics for the paintings in Time Gone. She said she started painting because she loves the subject.

“It’s one of those things that the more you do it, the better you get at it,” she said. “I’ve always dabbled, so I’m essentially a dabbler that has come a long way.”

McLaughlin said on her Web ite that she relied on vibrant colors to allow her to represent the pleasant rhythm of daily life there.

“Someone described it as an arm chair trip through a different time and a different place,” she said. “It describes this little moment in time from my childhood.”

For more information, visit lwesley.com.

A Day of Achievement: Fitch High School’s seniors graduate

Kristal Spence — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:36:55 GMT

Since the renovations and changes made to Fitch High School, it seemed as though there was plenty of room for an event such as graduation. Unfortunately, available parking spaces once again came up short and by 5:45 p.m., it was almost impossible to find one. Groton Long Point Road was congested with traffic as families, friends, and visitors made their way to Fitch High School’s 78th graduation on June 27.

Through the process of it all, there were still smiles, proud faces, and laughter surrounded by excitement and the feeling of achievement. After all, the Class of 2008 was about to graduate.

The Robert E. Fitch choral members sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” and Principal Robert Bacewicz welcomed all in attendance after a processional. Class President Anastasia Rege and Valedictorian Eileen Semancik shared their prepared speeches with the audience. Retiring Superintendent of Schools James Mitchell was the chosen commencement speaker.

The ceremony ended with the alma mater played by the high school band, honoring and sung by graduates and alumni of Fitch High School, followed by the much-anticipated recessional. The Class of 2008 Fitch High School seniors have graduated.

To view more photos, visit www.Zip06.com.

Feast on an Eco-Luncheon: Denison Pequotsepos Center hosts ‘green’

Kristal Spence — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:35:19 GMT

Jennifer Johnson, director of marketing and communications for the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center, recently announced the center will host a celebration of green tastes and style with its summer Eco-Luncheon on July 15 at the RiverWalk Restaurant in Mystic.

“The zero-waste luncheon will showcase local, environmentally friendly, and sustainable products, a green fashion show, as well as locally grown and organic food,” she said in recent statement. “The guest speaker will be state Rep. Diana Urban.”

“We are fortunate to live in an area where many local businesses are offering environmentally friendly products and services,” said Maggie Jones, executive director of the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center, in the statement. “Eco-Luncheon attendees will have the opportunity to hear tips for sustainable living, enjoy delicious food, and support the Nature Center all at the same time. We encourage people to get into the green spirit of the luncheon by walking, biking, or carpooling to the event.”

“Event participants will be able to learn about the Groton Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Trail Master Plan, the Tri-Town Trail being established between Bluff Point State Park and Preston, as well as the new Mystic Community Bikes Program,” Johnson added. “Representatives will be on hand to discuss using solar panels for home energy needs, and there will be information about eco-friendly cleaning products. Door prizes will also be available.”

Tickets for the event are $40 per person, and proceeds will benefit the nature center.

Programs at the nature center continue throughout the summer. On July 11, the Bluff Point State Park hike program will give participants the opportunity to use seine and dip nets to investigate the water. Participants as young as 1-year-old (walking) are invited to walk the grounds of the Pequot Woods in Groton on July 17 to look for animals, unique plants, and other sights. Local daylily aficionado Marion Mile will provide gardening tips on July 18 and a trip to Garden in the Woods in Massachusetts, New England’s premier living exhibit of native plants, is planned for July 22.

To register for a program, purchase tickets for the Eco-Luncheon, or for more information, contact the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center at 860-536-1216.

Since 1946, the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center has provided visitors of all ages with education programs that further the center’s mission to inspire and nurture appreciation of the natural world and foster a personal environmental ethic.

More information about the DPNC and its programs can be found at www.dpnc.org.

The Fifth Annual Animal Rescue Kayak: Fun in the Sun, Paddling and Pedaling for a Cause

Kristal Spence — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:36:34 GMT

“It’s fantastic. This is five years growing,” said Ken Carlson, co-chair of the Friends of the Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration (FOMA) as he looked around Bluff Point June 21. Each table of T-shirts and raffles was surrounded by visitors and supporters as FOMA held its fifth annual Animal Rescue Kayak (ARK) event in the sun.

“ARK is the event itself,” he explained. “It’s a benefit pedal and paddle to raise money to help the Mystic Aquarium with marine animals, marine mammals, and the sea turtle program.”

FOMA is an all-volunteer group that raises funds to benefit the Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding program at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration.

“We had the idea of making some type of event that ties the water directly to the fund raising so we figured kayaking is a natural choice,” Carlson said. “It’s been growing every year. There are a lot of people out in the water right now because all courses are out.”

Kayakers chose among four courses and were able to reserve free kayak rentals ahead of time.

“Another big thing is that we have a lot of people from the kayak community involved,” Carlson said. “There are certified instructors on each one of the courses…This year, we added two components: online sponsoring and the bike event.”

Cyclists were able to pick between two routes and non-paddlers had the option this year to Virtual Kayak through FOMA’s Web site.

Carlson said ARK event is one of the organization’s major fund-raisers of the year and since its inception, it has just about doubled its profits each year.

“The potential for this to grow is tremendous,” he added. When asked how much FOMA would like to raise, Carlson said as much as possible.
“It’s expensive to care for the seals, whales, dolphins, and sea turtles,” he said. “This year we hope to break $10,000 and that number can definitely grow in the future.”

Major sponsors were The New London Day, Zip06.com, Coca-Cola, Sunbeam Fleet, The Kayak Centre of Rhode Island, Eastern Mountain Sports, King Cove Outfitters-Marina, Kayak Waveology, and Mystic Cycle Center.

Paddlers and pedalers who brought in the most sponsors were awarded prizes and participants were given long-sleeved T-shirts with a picnic-style lunch. Carlson said participants still have the chance to win an invitation to an exclusive seal watch cruise on the Sunbeam Fleet if they raise more than $200.

For additional information, visit www.mysticaquarium.org.

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is a division of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit institution. The foundation’s mission is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research, and exploration.

Making a Difference Through Yoga: Local resident hosts event in Mystic

Kristal Spence — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:34:09 GMT

To some, yoga reflects a vision of tights, leotards, and awkward positions. But to Elizabeth Johnstone, resident of Stonington and founder of the nonprofit service organization Recovery Yoga, Inc., yoga is more than different postures and focusing on one’s center. Johnstone believes that the use of yoga has the power to re-root negative behavior, regain self-esteem, create an opportunity to reach out to troubled teens, and teach resiliency.

“It’s about getting back up again,” she said.

Johnstone is volunteering her time at the York Correctional Institution in Niantic for six months, directing a pilot program for 24 teens. She and the students she teaches have grown with the experience, Johnstone said. Receiving thank-you notes and letters from her students within the correctional facility, she knows the impact of teaching yoga can fulfill a larger vision.

Recovery Yoga Inc., established in February, will host a special yoga event July 12 at the Dragon’s Egg in Mystic, responding to the “urgent and growing need in [the] area for rehabilitative programs for at-risk women.” The organization, Johnstone said in a recent release, is dedicated to healing and personal empowerment through yoga programs in southeastern Connecticut and southwestern Rhode Island.

“Recovery Yoga’s mission is to establish, develop, and maintain yoga programs in residential, rehabilitative, and other facilities, primarily for women and teens working to recover from substance, physical, or other abuse, or who are at risk or otherwise in need,” she continued.

Johnstone, an instructor of yoga for two years, said the proceeds of the program are dedicated to bringing yoga to incarcerated girls and women in need. The program will be headed by yoga teacher Shaun English.

“He’s very experienced, enthusiastic, and excited,” Johnstone said.

She said many of their instructors helping the organization’s efforts are experienced independent contractors. Renowned yoga instructor Philip Urso of Rhode Island, she said, has donated 12 high-quality mats, about 40 books containing yoga positions and inspirational quotes and $1,000 toward the efforts of Recovery Yoga, Inc.

“It was just so nice of him,” Johnstone said. “The community has been so supportive…it’s really a grass-roots effort.”

Johnstone’s goal is to raise about $10,000 to contribute to the organization’s larger vision such as establishing residential treatment centers for young women and creating teacher training programs for those who would like to teach yoga in the future. She thanked the Community Foundation of Southeastern Connecticut for helping Recovery Yoga, Inc. to establish a donating fund for locals who feel compelled to contribute to the cause.

For more information, questions, or to make a donation, e-mail Elizjohnstone@sbcglobal.net or visit CFSECT.org.

Get Your Fresh Air Fix: Nature center gears up for summer camp sessions

Kristal Spence — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 21:09:26 GMT

Local residents joined the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center on June 7 to participate in Trails Day, a program held in conjunction with the Connecticut Forest and Park Association and the American Hiking Society. Jennifer Johnson, director of marketing and communications, said in a recent release that more than 1,000 other organizations across the country issued an open invitation for people to get outside, connect with others in the community, and experience some of the many features that the great outdoors has to offer.

The nature center hosted two free hikes on the High Ledges Hike Trail in North Stonington and on the Stone Bridges Trail located throughout the nature center and Denison and Avalonia land conservancy properties in Mystic.

“Hiking is a wonderful activity for people of all ages and fitness levels,” said Maggie Jones, executive director of the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. “Not only does hiking provide good exercise, but by participating in events such as Trails Day, people can connect with nature and learn to better appreciate and understand the importance of protecting habitats for plants and wildlife. In Connecticut, we have many beautiful nature preserves accessible by hiking trails. Spiritually and physically, wildness nurtures our well-being. Trees improve the air quality by providing more oxygen and removing greenhouse gases. They also filter soil and rainwater before they reach waterways and help to prevent erosion. Birds eat insects that would otherwise defoliate our forests. It’s all about connections.”

The nature center is currently seeking scholarship donations for its annual Summer Nature Camp, Johnson noted. She explained that children and young adults in southeastern Connecticut have come to the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center’s summer camp programs for more than two decades to spend their time hiking, pond dipping, ocean seining, and meeting animals to learn about the natural world and their place in it.

“This year, interest in the camps remains strong as area families are eager to find ways for their children to connect with the natural world and the great outdoors,” Johnson said. “At the same time, however, scholarship requests for summer camp programs are reaching record highs.

“Between school schedules, extra-curricular activities, video games, and television, children and young adults end up spending much of the year indoors,” Jones stated. “As a society we suffer from ‘nature deficit disorder,’ but programs such as the nature center’s summer camp help youth discover the physical and emotional rewards of reconnecting with nature. This year we have received more camp scholarship applications than before from interested children, and we try our best to help families who are in need. We appeal to all of those in the area to consider donating to our Camp Scholarship Fund to help give area children a nature camp experience that they will never forget. One hundred percent of the money given for scholarships will enable children of need to attend camp, and no donation is too small.”

Donations can be made by calling the nature center at 860-536-1216 or sent directly to DPNC, P.O. Box 122, Mystic, CT 06355.

The nature center is a private, not-for-profit organization, funded entirely by admission fees, memberships, and contributions. With 10 miles of trails, live animals, and a natural history museum, the nature center provides many recreational and instructive opportunities. More information about the DPNC and its programs can be found at www.dpnc.org.

Input Prompts Programs: The Mystic YMCA responds to the community

Kristal Spence — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 21:06:31 GMT

Membership Director Bambi Poppick recently announced the new summer classes to be offered at the Mystic branch of the Ocean Community YMCA. Poppick said there will be arts and crafts classes for children ages 8 to 12 covering several media.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for children who love to use their hands and imagination,” Poppick said. She added that Intro to Watercolors for children ages 9 to 12 will give participants the chance to get wet and wild while learning how to paint watercolors.

“Color studies, still-life, and landscape will all be covered,” she said. “In the Intro to Sculpture class for ages 9 to 12, children can get their hands dirty while creating a fun and rewarding project…The Painting Skills class for teens and adults will explore fun different approaches to painting by using various techniques guided by a local professional artist. This class is for all levels of artistic abilities,” she noted.

Poppick said many of the Y’s new programs have been developed by Enrichment Director Diana Yalen.

“When it was the Mystic Community Center, [there was] more of a focus on some of these kinds of classes, so we’re excited to have the artists willing to participate,” Poppick said. “We’ve run some other painting classes that were quite popular, so we’re excited. Sometimes it takes a session or two for people to realize we’re doing these types of classes, so we’re hoping with the press releases and the posters around the building, people will know.”

Kayaking for Beginners will start July 1 and run through July 22. It will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m.

“This course covers all of the basics needed to safely and comfortably maneuver on quiet water including: safety, balance, entering and exiting the kayak, forward, reverse, and turning strokes, and self-assisted rescues,” Poppick said in a recent release. “No experience is necessary for this class. Kayaking is a fun, relaxing, low-impact activity that can be enjoyed by all.”

She later added, “We’ve had a kayaking component to our beach camp but never offered a kayaking class. We’re hoping that will go well, too.” The class will take place on Williams Beach behind the center.

In August, the YMCA will begin its College Bound/Back to School Self-Defense Class, which Poppick said is designed for college-bound students.
“Important safety information and a few simple self-defense concepts will be taught,” Poppick stated in a press release. “Learn how to walk on campus with confidence [and] drive safely in a strange city. Learn what an attacker is looking for in a victim and learn the best targets to strike an attacker, and more.”

“It’s going to incorporate martial arts but, again, going over safety information and how to be aware of what’s around you,” Poppick later explained.

Many other new and annual programs are being offered, Poppick said, and the YMCA continues to respond to what activities the community would like try.

“We’re trying to expand our program offerings,” Poppick said. “Some come from suggestion cards or just discussions from members.”

For more information and details, call the Mystic branch of the Ocean Community YMCA at 860-536-3575.

Art in the Evening: Mystic art galleries band together for special series

Kristal Spence — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:02:34 GMT

Local art lovers parked their vehicles downtown June 5 and walked a route connecting six Mystic galleries. It was all part of the Mystic Art in the Evening stroll.

According to Brandy Kolmer, director of development and public relations of the Mystic Arts Center, strolls will be held the first Thursday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m. Mystic Art in the Evening is free and open to the public.
Cathie S. Gibson, one of the owners of The Hollow, described Mystic Art in the Evening as a unique shopping experience. With its abundance of artwork by local artists and interesting antiques, Gibson said the stroll was fabulous.

“We had quite a few people in,” she said, adding that her gallery store provided chocolate and beverages. “It was really good and a lot of fun—it was a nice evening and people seemed to manage to get from one store to the other,” she said, noting the participants’ use of their printed maps for the event.

“It went really well,” said Cindy Cobb, manager of the Emporium Gallery. “There was a definite increase in traffic, people really liked it, and we’ve gotten a lot of feedback since...People are already making plans around it for the next one. It was a big hit.”

Frances Harkins Grunwald, owner of Courtyard Gallery, agreed.
“It was really thrilling to go out on the street and see so many people,” she said. “The street was just filled, and as I visited gallery to gallery, every gallery was packed.”

Kolmer said on a night that the MAC is usually closed, Mystic Art in the Evening stroll brought in more than 100 visitors. She is hopeful that traffic will only increase as the summer progresses.

For further information, call 860-536-7601 or visit www.artsinmystic.com.

Stroll Over Here

Courtyard Gallery: Open daily at Factory Square, 12 Water Street (inner courtyard); 860-536-5059 or www.courtyardgallerymystic.com

The Hollow: Open daily at 12 Water Street; 860-572-9704

Mystic Arts Center: Open daily at 9 Water Street; www.mysticarts.org

Emporium Gallery: Open daily at 15 Water Street; 860-536-3891

The Finer Line Gallery: Open daily at 48 W. Main Street; 860-536-8339 or www.finerlinegallery.com

Trade Winds Gallery: Open daily at 42 West Main Street; 860-536-0119 or www.tradewindsgallery.net

Books and their Brethren: Bank Square Books hosts talks with authors

Kristal Spence — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:00:34 GMT

Not only does Bank Square Books in downtown Mystic provide books for bibliophiles, now it will provide authors as well.

Some of the book store’s guest authors of late have included George C. Daughan, author of If By Sea: The Forging of the American Navy-From the Revolution to the War of 1812; Nancy Clark, author of July and August; and Todd McLeish, author of Golden Wings and Hairy Toes, who spoke at the Mystic & Noank Library.

Bank Square Books owner Annie Philbrick announced that Lincoln Chafee, the former Republican U.S. senator, will visit the book store on Thursday, June 26 at 7 p.m. to talk about his recent memoir, Against the Tide: How a Compliant Congress Empowered a Reckless President.

In Against the Tide, Chafee discusses his role as the lone Republican in the Senate to have voted against the authorization of the use of force in Iraq. He was also the only Republican to vote for the Levin amendment, calling for a non-binding timetable for a withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq.

Philbrick noted, “In Against the Tide, Chafee discusses his political roots in Rhode Island, serving first on the city council in Warwick and then as the city’s mayor. When his father, John H. Chafee, passed away in 1999, while finishing up his final term as senator, Chafee was appointed by Governor Lincoln Almond to finish his father’s term. In 2000, he ran for re-election and won a full six-year term of his own to the Senate.”

Other upcoming visiting authors include Padma Venkatraman, author of Climbing the Stairs on June 28 at 3 p.m. and Linda Greenlaw, who penned the mystery Fisherman’s Bend. Greenlaw will speak July 19 at noon.

Copies of Chafee’s book will be available for autographing and sale.

For more information, call the store at 860-536-3795 or visit www.banksquarebooks.com.

A Taste of the Big City: Magnet school students rock the house

Kristal Spence — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 19:06:41 GMT

Family, friends, and faculty watched as the fourth and fifth grade chorus of the Catherine Kolnaski School performed School House Rock Live! Jr. May 28 and May 29 in the auditorium.

School House Rock Live! Jr. is a part of The Broadway Junior Collection, and all the materials and the special arrangements for kids were authorized and supplied by Musical Theatre International of New York. Between the enthusiastic faces, detailed choreography, and songs, the audience couldn’t stop clapping throughout the performances. Also taking in the shows were students from Kolnaski school’s sister school, Pleasant Valley Elementary School, and about 50 elderly residents from different nursing homes.

Director and producer of the performance and Arts Integration teacher at Catherine Kolnaski Robin Crandall stood proudly near the back of the room among the crowd as she watched the finished product on stage.

“We were really pleased with how the performances went,” she said referring to herself and other teachers that have helped her throughout the process of putting the production together. “For us, this was a bigger performance than usually found at the elementary school level, and there was more rehearsal time invested.”

Casting and rehearsals for the show began in early February. Crandall said the teachers taught the selected fourth- and fifth-grade chorus program students the words, notes, and steps they needed to know for the performance to come together.

“It was interesting, having everything going on at the same time,” she said laughing. “I looked for a show that would allow me to work with a small group of leads and have a dance team that could work separate from the leads. [Schoolhouse Rock Live! Junior] actually fit that bill nicely...The other reason why I chose the show obviously was because it integrates so well with what we do in this building, which is to try to teach regular curriculum through the arts. It was just the perfect mix for us in a number of different ways.”

$250,000 for Amistad Repairs: Governor Rell announces approval

Kristal Spence — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 19:05:16 GMT

Governor M. Jodi Rell announced recently that $250,000 to make repairs to the Amistad gained approval when the state Bond Commission met May 30.

“Amistad is the largest vessel ever constructed at Mystic Seaport,” Governor Rell said in a recent release. “The ship reminds us of the hardships endured and the sacrifices made by her ancestors, many of whom were captured and sold into slavery in the mid-1800s. The presence of the Amistad in Connecticut is a reminder of one victorious moment for slaves in this country. This is the state where these captives fought for their freedom—and won.”

The Amistad, launched on March 25, 2000, is a replica of the original ship that was commandeered by its African captives in 1839.

“The Amistad is 10 feet longer than the original La Amistad of 1839,” Rell noted in a statement. “The extra length was built into the ship to accommodate an engine room. The new Amistad is a reproduction of a Spanish-owned cargo schooner that became the battleground of the first successful slave revolt in the New World. That incident led to an 1841 Supreme Court decision that not only set those slaves free but also set the stage for the abolition of slavery in the U.S. 22 years later.”

“These funds will help the Mystic Seaport Museum to continue to create a broad, public understanding of the relationship of America and the sea,” state Sen. Andrew Maynard said in a press release. “Mystic Seaport’s shipyard staff coordinated the Amistad’s construction with area volunteers and with students from vocational schools in Connecticut. The state’s help in making these necessary repairs is most welcome.”

Spokesperson of the Mystic Seaport Michael O’Farrell said visitors still, to some level, equate Mystic Seaport and Amistad because the vessel was originally built there.

“We get questions quite a bit,” he admitted.

He said the additional repairs on the Amistad will benefit the Seaport because they apply anytime the vessel is at Mystic Seaport.
“We built it, we’re connected to it, but more importantly, it has an amazing story to tell,” he added. “It adds to the overall offering of Mystic Seaport.”

The repairs will take place in a specialized dock in Mystic Seaport’s Preservation Shipyard that is used to overhaul and retrofit historic wooden sailing ships.

It’s Lobster Days: Seaport hosts annual feast

Kristal Spence — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 18:56:53 GMT

Local residents and visiting tourists had a taste of fresh seafood Saturday, Sunday, and Monday over the Memorial Day Weekend at the New England Lobster Days picnic-style event along the Mystic River.

Spokesperson for the Mystic Seaport Michael O’Farrell said lobsters were served by Rotary Club members of Mystic as musical entertainment was provided by Finest Kind. Together, the Mystic Seaport and the Rotary Club created a weekend of great-tasting food, entertaining entertainment, and family-fun activities.

O’Farrell said the event was a resounding success.

“Overall our attendance was up about 10 percent over last year…It was our best Memorial Day weekend since 2002 and in terms of lobsters, the Rotary Club sold 50 percent more lobsters this year than they did last year,” O’Farrell noted.

Lobster Days is one of the Rotary Club’s annual fund-raisers, which help the club support non-profit organizations including the Mystic & Noank Library, the Mystic Little League, and the Hospice of Southeastern Connecticut. Cabot Creamery and People’s United Bank sponsored Lobster Days.

“It was a smashing success for them, and, again, all of that revenue goes back into the community…We’re thrilled that we had a good weekend and we’re thrilled that they had a good weekend,” O’Farrell said.

The Devil You Know: Mystic resident writes a book of suspense

Kristal Spence — Thu, 29 May 2008 20:28:38 GMT

“Whoever this killer was, he was smart and kept his emotions in check, no matter how anger boiled underneath. Nick wondered if the killer’s only release was in the grotesque nature of Allun’s murder. But deep down, he was certain that there was more to it than that. The killer positioned the body to send a message to someone; perhaps even to strike back at someone. That led Nick to believe that this may not be an isolated incident. This may not be the last he heard of this killer.”

Mystic resident Timothy Lassiter’s most recently published book, The Devil You Know, continues the story of his first published book, Three Degrees of Separation. In this sequel, Lassiter’s main character, Detective Nicholas Grenier, is back in a new position as lead detective for the New London Police Department, piecing together clues as he faces a new killer.

“After closing his previous case, Grenier is forced to face the fact that both police officer and killer run in his veins,” according to a press release from Lassiter’s publisher AuthorHouse. “He is called upon to help another police department investigate the brutal murder of a local priest. However, when he finds himself investigating another gruesome murder just days later with numerous similarities, he begins to believe the same killer is responsible for both cases. As he follows a path from one dead body to the next, he discovers that to solve this case, he must first put himself in the shoes of the victim and the mind of the killer.”

“The Devil You Know is the sequel in this continuous story about this detective,” Lassiter said. “It takes place here in Connecticut. The police department I use is the New London Police Department and a lot of people like that and I like that.”

Lassiter added that most mystery novels take place in Los Angeles or New York and he wanted to create something a little more local.

“This is just a continuing series about the growth of this detective, as a detective and as a person, as he moves through life.”

Born in Tennessee with a father in the Navy, Lassiter said he moved frequently during his earlier years. He said he likes to say he grew up in Norwich, where his father settled and retired; Lassiter has lived in Mystic for about three years.

“I’ve always liked writing,” he said. “I won this poetry contest in third grade and I won five bucks…I’ve kind of enjoyed writing and reading ever since.”
It was when he was in the Navy for about five years, working in medicine, that he found his niche in writing mysteries.

“When I was in the Navy, a lot of times, the only thing you have time to do is read...so I did a lot of reading, a lot of mystery reading,” Lassiter explained.

When injured and honorably discharged, he told himself he would try writing a novel. Though his first manuscript didn’t go anywhere, Lassiter said he knew the experience would help prepare him for future manuscripts he would write and get published.

He describes The Devil You Know as suspenseful, full of action, and mysterious. Though he enjoyed writing Three Degrees of Separation, giving the character and the story an introduction, he admitted that it was in The Devil You Know where he wanted to start.

“It’s in his career,” Lassiter explained, referring to Grenier. “It kind of shows his struggles as a detective and a human being…I’m currently writing the third ‘Grenier’ book. Then I’m going to move on…There’s a person in the first book and another person in the second book who will then branch off and have their own series.”

Still in the field of medicine as a nurse and in school to become a physician’s assistant, Lassiter hopes to make writing his second job.

“I’m definitely going to stay in the medical field, but I would love for [writing] to be my second job…It’s sort of a hobby because it’s very cathartic for me,” he continued. “I can just come home and write...It completes everything for me.”

In reference to both books—which took about a year to write and six months to edit—Lassiter said he’s the first to tell people that he’s not looking to write the next great American novel and continues to encourage people to pick up a book to create their own world.

“You don’t need to watch a screen to tell it’s a certain actor who plays the part,” he said. “You make your own person in your head and you can read and get days’ worth of good, imaginative carefree fun.”

Lassiter hopes people find the book “a good read,” and the first advice he would give to any writer would be not to quit.

“Don’t do that,” he stated. “Just do it because you never know who’s going to like it, and even the public doesn’t know if they’re going to like it…Everyone has a story to tell, at least one, if not more. I love hearing people saying they want to write….give it a try…write about what you know.”

The Devil You Know is now available online at about every major book store, such as Bordersstores.com, Amazon.com, and Barnesandnoble.com, and at local stores like Bank Square Books.

For more information, contact Timothy Lassiter via e-mail at timlass@comcast.net or visit www.lassiterbooks.com.