winter 2016 - Putnam Traveler

The Quiet Corner
T HE A RTS , DINING, AN TIQU ES , AT T R ACTIONS & SO MUCH MOR E ...
PUTNAM TRAVELER
Supporting Tourism & Communities in Northeastern, CT & Beyond...
IS SU E NO. 49 • NORT H EA ST ER N, CON N EC T ICU T
DOW N TOW N M A P I NSIDE • JAN UA RY - M A RCH 2016
For an afternoon, a day, or a weekend...come and enjoy Northeastern Connecticut!
CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret
W
inter is upon us, although up until now,
the weather has been mild, rest assured the
snow will arrive soon! So to help keep you
busy (and warm) this winter, we are featuring indoor
and outdoor winter activities, plus energy savings, and
of course comfort food.
This is a beautiful time of
year to explore the trails of
the Connecticut Audubon
Society Center at Pomfret.
Get a glimpse of the birds
nesting and enjoy a little fresh
air. Become a member of
the Abington Social Library,
the longest continuously
running social library in the
US! Our local community
college QVCC provides plenty of programs for learning
and entrichment. The Vanilla Bean Cafe provides
musical entertainment without the long drive to Boston
or Providence. If you like pizza this issue features some
of our favorite pizza places in the Quiet Corner. Plus
discover a convenient way to save
on energy bills this winter by calling
Titan Energy. We hope you enjoy
this issue of The Putnam Traveler!
INSIDE:
Local Advertisers…Local Real
Estate...Downtown Putnam Events...
If you love Pizza...there are plenty
of options in and near the Quiet
Corner...from New York Style,
Italian, Greek and even Gluten Free...Learn the history of
The Abington Social Library...established by the women
of Abington in 1813 this is the longest continuously
running social library in the US...Want to save money on
your energy bills this winter? Call Titan Energy...a local
energy saving company that seeks to both maximize
energy service and minimize costs for their residential
and commercial clients...Get outside and walk the trails of
the Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Pomfret...The
Grassland Bird Conservation Center, Bafflin Sanctuary
and Trail Wood all feature numerous scheduled activities
both indoors and out from January through March...
Quinebaug Valley Community College offers a variety of
programs to keep you busy throughout the year...and The
Vanilla Bean Cafe...is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy
live folk music!
Downtown Putnam & Area Maps • Businesses • Local Activities • Shopping & Events
Northeastern Connecticut is Forty-Five Minutes from Casinos, Hartford, & Providence
Twenty Minutes from Worcester • One Hour from Boston • Three Hours from New York City
PUTNAM TRAVELER: 5,000+ Copies Mailed & Distributed to Visitors and Area Businesses throughout CT & MA
10,000 Copies Mailed to All Residents of Putnam, Woodstock & Pomfret Connecticut
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PU T N A M T R AV EL E R N E WS • NO R T HE A S T, C ON N E C T I C U T
America’s Favorite Food!
PIZZA IN THE QUIET CORNER
According to The Atlantic magazine (which gleaned this fact from a 2014 U.S. Department of Agriculture report), “About 1 in 8
Americans eats pizza any given day.” Connecticut has a long history with this favored food. Pepe’s Pizzeria, established in
New Haven in 1925, is heralded as the home of the first American style pizza. It’s probably fair to say there’s at least one pizza joint in
almost every town in our country. The Quiet Corner is no exception. Google “quiet corner ct pizza restaurants” and you’ll get
over 200,000 results! And it seems that our area’s pizza lovers can support them all.
BY CRIS C ADIZ
N
oted last year as a favorite in the “Best Pizza
in Connecticut” feature article in Connecticut
Magazine, Sweet Evalina’s got kudos for
their “thin-crust New York-style pizza” about which “the
locals rave.” And the love goes both ways…as a thank
you to their loyal Quiet Corner customers in spring
of 2015, owners Tom and Polly Hayden gave away
fifteen free pizzas to celebrate their 15th anniversary in
business.
Located just south of the Woodstock town green
on Route 169, Sweet Evalina’s is a “roadside restaurant”
offering casual indoor & outdoor dining. Open daily
for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, Sweet Evalina’s
also serves other American favorites such as burgers,
hot dogs, sandwiches, salads & wraps. The Hayden’s
regularly create different kinds of gourmet pies—
including seasonal treats like butternut squash in fall
and asparagus in the spring.
“We personally think that Sweet Evalina’s has the
best pizza around,” says resident Kimberly Ferreira
Shepherd, speaking for herself and her family. “We
like the New York
style thin crust. The
variety of toppings
on specialty pizzas
is a plus…my
personal favorites
are artichoke and
asparagus.”
Another USDA
pizza fact reported
by The Atlantic is
that “more than
one-quarter of
boys between 6
and 19 eat pizza
every day.” Twelveyear-old Ethan Bove’s two favorite pizza places are
Woodstock Pizza and New York Pizza in
Plainfield. “Woodstock Pizza is always great for a quick
pizza whenever we don’t know what to have for lunch
or dinner,” says Ethan, whose personal favorite there is
buffalo chicken pizza. “New York Pizza is always a joy to
stop at,” he continues. “In fact, for the longest time we
would eat there every Friday night.”
Ethan and other New York Pizza & Pasta Co. fans
(3,000+ on Facebook!) are probably chomping at the
bit for this popular restaurant’s
New York style thin crust pizza.
It closed on October 31st
after 17 years to renovate a
new larger location, also
in Plainfield. New York
Pizza is slated to reopen
at 733 Norwich Road (the
old Doyal Drug building)
around March 15th. Look
them up on Facebook for
the opening day.
Originally from the
Bronx, owner Jimmy Manecho
describes...“If I had to choose
another place it would be Sweet
Evalina’s,” says Ethan. “I haven’t eaten there
very many times, but if you asked anyone in my grade
what their favorite pizza place is, I’m sure almost all of
them would say Sweet Evalina’s.”
Pizza Pizzazz (www.letseat.at/pizzapizzazz)
at 136 Main Street in
Danielson is familyowned and operated.
The pizza is fresh, the
crust is thin, and they
offer generous portions
by the slice. Pizza Pizzaz
is also known for their
calzones. The restaurant
is clean and the staff is
friendly.
Also family-run,
Riverside Pizza,
located in Thompson
is great for dining-in,
carryout and delivery.
Johnny’s Pizza (www.johnnyspizza.com)and
Brooklyn Pizza, both located in Brooklyn, offer
great pizza options, dine-in or take-out.
If you are willing to travel a little further,
Willington Pizza House (www.
willingtonpizza.com) located on Route 32 in
Willington, was voted “Best Pizza”Connecticut Magazine
Reader’s Choice Tolland County. Willington Pizza focuses
on hand-made crust, the key to a good pizza pie. Visit
their website to learn how it is made. Build your own
pizza (or calzone) or choose from
their famous ‘designer’ pizza
menu including taco pizza
and seafood casino. A second
location, Willington
Pizza Too, is located on
Route 72 in Willington.
Gluten-free pizza
lovers don’t need to be
disappointed, since a
number of Quiet Corner
restaurants have added a
gluten free crust option to
their menus. Pomfret’s Dayna
Flath “loves Pizza 101 and
especially their gluten free crust!”
Located at 16 Mashamoquet Road in
Pomfret Center, Pizza 101 is a small family restaurant
popular for both dining in and take out. It serves a
variety of Greek, Mediterranean and American menu
items.
Lori McDermott, also of Pomfret, is a fan of
Bella’s Bistro’s (www.bellasbistromarket.com)
gluten free pizza, although this restaurant’s regular
crust has many aficionados as well. Carmel Osterlund
claims “Bellas pizza is to die for… Love it!” Located on
Main Street in downtown Putnam, Bella’s Bistro offers
award-winning northern Italian cuisine, pedestrians can
often smell the aroma’s coming from the kitchen while
passing by! Their seasonal al fresco seating makes this
a fun place to eat and people watch especially during
Putnam’s events, such as First Fridays and Riverfire.
Just across the street from Bella’s, Someplace
Special (wwwsomeplacespecialrestaurant.com)
voted ‘Best Italian in Windham County’ by Connecticut
Magazine in 2010, this popular Putnam pizza stop and
family restaurant and pub. It also features outdoor
seating and is a popular local take-out option.
Palmieri’s Pizza (www.palmierispizza.
com) located in the Price Chopper Plaza in downton
Putnam, offers New York style pizza (with gluten free
options) and Italian Cuisine. This popular pizzaria is
small and tables fill up quickly especially after local high
school sporting events. Dine in or take out. ARTS & FRAMING
& THE SOCHOR ART GALLERY
SHERI SOCHOR, OWNER
“The difference is, I care”
Aerial Yoga in Putnam!
open classes • workshops
programs for girls
private group instruction
sound healing & essential oil events
healthy eating & health coaching programs
Wed - Sat....10 - 5pm
Sunday........ 11 - 5pm
or by appointment
112 Main Street
Putnam, CT 06260
860.963.0105
WWW.ARTSANDFRAMINGPUTNAM.COM
(pre-registration required)
Lori McDermott, RYT500 • Tel. 860.933.3291
register online: glowaerialyoga.com
PUTNAM TRAVELER
3
PU T N A M T R AV EL E R N E WS • NO R T HE A S T, C ON N E C T I C U T
A Historical Library Still
Serves the Community
In 1793 the residents of Abington, CT decided to form a library. At this time, “social libraries”
were the norm - members paid a low yearly subscription which supported the purchase of books
to be shared by all. In Abington, the initial members paid 12 shillings and drew up a charter for
the establishment of the Social Library of Abington. They boasted 100 books, primarily from
the library of the first librarian, the Reverend Walter Lyon of the Abington Congregational
Church. Today, the Abington Social Library is the longest continuously running social library
in the United States, maintaining a cozy library building stocked with books for every taste and
providing community events for the residents of the Quiet Corner.
BY JENNIFER HELLER
T
o have such a venerable institution in our
community is a treasure and I had the pleasure
of chatting with Bonnie Duncan, the Director.
Both she and library staff member Joyce Davis were
charming founts of information and historical tidbits.
Learning about the concept of a social library, I was
curious where all the other social libraries went. Mrs.
Duncan explained that, while we require taxes to fund
public libraries for the free use of everyone, that is a
relatively new expectation. Publicly funded libraries
arose with the influence of the Carnegie Foundation
beginning about 1893 - after the Abington Social Library
had been going strong for a full century. As recognition
grew that a public library was a community necessity
and tax-based funding was established, most social
libraries segued into local public libraries. But not so
the Abington Social Library: made up of independent
minded New Englanders, they preferred to keep their
library autonomous and self-sufficient.
And rightly so, as in the previous century the
Abington Social Library had proven itself able to serve
the needs of the local inhabitants, and able to design
an institution that blended the strong-wills and creative
minds of the local organizations. In 1813 the women of
Abington stepped into
the pages of history by
chartering their own
library - a revolutionary
act for that time.
Their historic charter
was even exhibited
in the 1893 Chicago
World’s Fair. And they
maintained their own,
autonomous library
until 1879. That year
the men and women
of Abington chose to
merge both the Ladies
Social Library and
the United Library of Abington - a permutation of the
original Social Library of Abington plus the Junior
Library of Abington - into the Abington Social Library
under the original charter. They combined their book
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PUTNAM TRAVELER
collections and pooled
their resources.
Infrastructure
was the next frontier.
Heretofore, library
collections had been kept
in a member’s house,
or perhaps rotated from
house to house. But
the book collections
kept growing and in
1884 the townspeople
of Abington made
another revolutionary
plan: to build a building
specifically to house books and serve as a reading room.
The grand opening in 1885 made it the first library
building in Connecticut and the original building and
porch remain the heart of the modern-day Abington
Social Library. The national psyche caught up to the
forward-thinkers in the Quiet Corner and after 1893
other communities across the U.S. began building their
own buildings, which were largely funded through the
Carnegie Foundation, maintained with taxes, and are
the public libraries of today.
So what is the Abington Social Library today?
It is a testament to the power and creative genius of
committed individuals who make up this vibrant
community. With over 220 years of uninterrupted
library service the Abington Social Library collection is
large, consisting of historical books, current bestsellers,
non-fiction, audio books, DVDs and more. The
Children’s library is a cozy, well-lit room with a glowing
floor, thanks to the hard work of Sean Cunningham,
Eagle Scout and other members of the community. The
library also offers wireless internet service and public
computers and hosts lively book discussions on the 3rd
Thursday of each month.
PU T N A M T R AV EL E R N E WS • NO R T HE A S T, C ON N E C T I C U T
BY JENNIFER HELLER
It is awe-inspiring that 90% of the collection is
donated. Each year the Pomfret Lions Club providers
book alternatives (audio or large-print books) for the
visually impaired. And additional books on CD come
on a 3 month rotation from the CT State library. The
Abington Social Library receives some limited funding
from the Town of Pomfret which they augment through
a variety of entertaining fundraising events throughout
the year. These are local traditions that include Breakfast
with Santa, the Annual Pet Show and themed tea
parties.
The library is also available as a meeting space for
local non-profit organizations, social and community
events. The library has hosted dedications, weddings,
nature walks, outdoor concerts, movie nights, authors’
presentations, book signings, educational seminars,
game nights, and chess clubs. The Abington Social
Library and the Pomfret Public Library work together
on events such as the “Quiet Corner Reads” and hope to
expand their fruitful collaboration.
Last but certainly not least: Since 1999, the
Abington Social Library has presented every baby born
at Day Kimball Hospital with a book to take home. They
have collected and donated over 12,400 books to date!
Mrs. Duncan says one of her greatest joys comes when
she mentions her job at the Abington Social Library
and someone from the greater area says, “I/my son/
my daughter have a book from that library!” - given to
them at their birth. We can be proud not only of the
distinguished history at Abington Social Library, but
also of the beautiful legacy it is creating.
And how about that 12 shilling membership fee?
While it is no longer a “members only” library and all
are welcome to use its services, it is still possible to
become a member of the Abington Social Library for the
whopping dues of $2.00 a year.
CURRENT INFORMATION:
Library hours: Monday – 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.;
Wednesday 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Thursday 3:00
p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Website: www.abingtonsociallibrary.org
Contact information: (860) 974-0415
Location: 536 Hampton Road, Pomfret Center, CT
- located on Route 97, just south of Rucki’s General
Store and north of We-Lik-It Ice Cream.
W
inter brings chilly days, crackling
fires…and shocking energy
bills! While I love the four
seasons here in New England, the sticker
shock when a natural gas or electricity
bill comes is not so lovely. Energy bills are
something none of us likes to hassle with mostly because of the unpleasant costs and
overwhelming questions that accompany
finding and
keeping a reliable
plan. But how do
you make sense
of the myriad of
plans, companies,
and offers? Into
this blizzard of
options, Titan
Energy steps:
sifting through the
plans and offering
their clients
competitive rates,
locked-in with a
contract.
Titan Energy is a national energy brokerage
aggregator, which means they are able
to negotiate with energy suppliers for the
best electrical and natural gas rates. They
seek to both maximize energy service and
minimize costs for their clients. They serve
both residential and commercial clients,
including public systems such as towns
with multiple buildings and complicated
infrastructures. Titan Energy’s headquarters
are in Rocky Hill, CT and their Energy
Consultant for the Quiet Corner is Elaine
Lind, located in Brooklyn, CT.
While many of us get energy offers which
promise low rates, hidden in the fine print
may be price hikes after 1 month. However,
with a rate that has been negotiated by Titan
with an energy company and locked in for
12, 24 or 36 months, you can say goodbye
to sudden, unexpected energy rate jumps.
Ms. Lind cautions that, as rates jump up so
they may drop down and she encourages
clients to look at the broader picture of
risk management and the ability to budget
appropriately, rather focusing on trying to save
a few cents every
month - which
inevitably ends up
with hidden costs,
fees, and dropped
service.
In addition to
energy brokering,
Titan Energy also
contracts with
EarthLight to offer
their commercial
clients energy
audits and
recommendations
for energy
efficiency retrofitting. Earthlight can come
to your business, or other commercial entity
and assess how and where the energy is
going. Following this, not only does EarthLight
identify where your energy losses are the
greatest, but Titan Energy in conjunction with
EarthLight offers bids to update, improve,
and retrofit your establishment for increased
energy efficiency and cost savings. In
addition, Titan Energy is expanding into the
growing field of solar energy.
So while the winter may be long and cold,
don’t let your energy needs overwhelm you.
Contact Elaine Lind, Titan Energy Consultant
at 860-774-1047 or visit Titan’s webpage at:
http://titanenergyne.com
The book discussions meet on the third Thursday of
the month at 5:30 p.m.
Theatre of Northeastern Connecticut
30 Front Street (Rt. 44) Downtown Putnam, Connecticut
Antique Flooring u
u Vintage Building Materials u
u Architectural Antiques u
u
www.oldwoodworkshop.com
Giving old wood new life...
THOMAS CAMPBELL
193 Hampton Road, Pomfret Center, CT 06259
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM
SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED)
Jan 29, 2016 - Feb 14, 2016
Join three madcap actors wearing tights as they
weave their wicked way through all of Shakespeare’s
Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies in one wild ride
that will leave you both breathless and helpless with laughter.
Non-musical $19 & $15
‘NIGHT MOTHER
Feb 19, 2016 - Feb 28, 2016
A Pulitzer prize-winning play that deals with
depression and the relationship between
a Mother and Daughter in a single fateful
night. A powerfully moving dark drama. Non-musical $19 & &15
860-655-5259
For tickets please order online or call 860-928-7887
“Open by chance or appointment”
Tickets may be purchased at the box office.
www.thebradleyplayhouse.org
PUTNAM TRAVELER
5
PU T N A M T R AV EL E R N E WS • NO R T HE A S T, C ON N E C T I C U T
Winter Activities at CT Audubon
Although many birds have flown south and the landscape might be hidden by snow, winter is not necessarily a quiet time at the
Connecticut Audubon Society’s Pomfret and Hampton locations. The Grassland Bird Conservation Center, Bafflin Sanctuary and
Trail Wood all feature numerous scheduled activities both indoors and out from January through March. In addition,
anyone may use the walking trails year-round from dawn to dusk for free.
BY CRIS C ADIZ
“W
inter is about getting out and walking,” says Director Sarah Heminway. “We’ve got over ten miles of trails. People can also cross country ski and snowshoe. The trickiest part is staying
on the trails in the snow. We get a lot of people all year
round including winter. More and more are linking
up to us through the Airline Trail. Folks don’t fully
appreciate it because they don’t see a lot of people since
we have so many ways to access our trails.”
Sarah’s favorite spot on the Bafflin Sanctuary’s 700
acres during winter is Alfalfa Hill on the Chain Link
trail. “As long as the wind is not howling too hard, this
is the best place because the view is spectacular.” Trail
maps are available online or at the Center on Day Road
in Pomfret. For those who prefer a guided experience,
many options are available throughout winter. “There’s
always two days a week that we have scheduled walks
going on,” she says.
Wednesday Noon Walks for all ages offer “fresh
air, exercise, good company and naturalist lessons along
the way.” Thursday Morning Walks start at 8:30 a.m.
for those interested in “getting out on the trails in the
quiet beauty of the early day.” These guided walks on
the Bafflin Sanctuary are led by Connecticut Audubon
Society volunteers and are free to CAS members; $3 for
non-members.
Sanctuary Manager and expert birder Andy
Rzeznikiewicz leads Monthly Bird Walks on
Thursdays at 1PM (Jan 21, Feb 18) to search for
wintering species such as horned larks, ducks, hawks,
sparrows, and more. An Owl Walk is scheduled for
Saturday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. to find screech, barred, and
great-horned owls. In years past, groups located sawwhet and long-eared
owls. The cost for
these programs is $5
CAS members; $10
non-members.
Group walks on
Trail Wood’s 168-acre
sanctuary in Hampton
are also scheduled this winter. Second Sunday Walks
offer a chance to “soak up winter’s beauty” with
caretaker Vern Pursley on Jan. 10 and Feb. 14 at 2
p.m. You can discover the magic of Trail Wood in the
moonlight on Full Moon Walks, Jan. 23 and Feb. 20 at
7 p.m. A Winter Night Sky Walk on Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. is
hosted by John Morey “under the dark skies of the new
moon.” Starting in Edwin Way Teale’s beloved Starfield
Pasture, the program will make observations about the
night sky. Bring binoculars and/or telescope. Cost for
these Trail Wood Programs: CAS members free; nonmembers $3.
“We also have date-to-be-determined evening
snowshoe hikes at Trail Wood,” says Sarah. “You’ll get a
day or two advance notice in terms of when that might
be happening depending on conditions.” An email
notification list is managed by [email protected].
These are free for CAS members; $3 non-members.
“In January, February and March, we try and run as
much programming as we can on Sunday afternoons,”
Sarah says. “People can drive, it’s not dark, a lot of
folks are getting cabin fever and want to get outside.
So we try and do
a combination of
walks and lectures
and art openings.”
The indoor space
at the Grassland
Center on Day
Road lends itself well to art exhibits. “Birding Through
the Years with Paint and Brush” is one such show by
Sterling resident and talented wildlife artist David
Stumpo. His exquisite watercolors of birds and other
native species runs through February 1st.
Programs are scheduled for all ages, including an
After School Nature Club for grades K-6. Winter is a
great time to search for animal tracks and sign, which
become more obvious in snow. “Afternoons will be filled
with fresh air, exercise and fun,” relates the brochure.
“Wildlife lessons will be quietly inserted along the way.”
Sarah also notes that children are welcome to join “any
second Sunday walks and owl walks if they are old
“When folks come out here they often think of it as a state park set up
for their recreation. But it’s not,” she reminds us. “It was set up as a
wildlife sanctuary and we as walkers are guests.”
enough to know to be quiet.”
Indoor programs at the Pomfret Center are just
as informative and intriguing. “We’re going to have a
giant exhibit of pelts and skulls as part of our wildlife
mammal and monitoring [Citizen Science] program,”
says Sarah. This two-day exhibition on Jan. 16 &
17, “Skulls, Skins, and Scat!”, features a collection of
preserved mounts, pelts, skulls, and other signs of
wildlife found in northeast Connecticut. In addition,
“Fishers: Fastest Mammals in Trees” on Jan. 16 will be
led by Ray Hardy, DEEP Master Naturalist and tracking
volunteer. Two taxidermy programs in January, one
on birds and another on mammals, will offer talks and
COV ENTRY
A RTS & A NTIQUES
Open Wednesday
through Sunday
10am - 5pm
1140 Main Street
Coventry, CT 06238
Anne C. Burke
860-498-0352
c: 860-208-8215
6
PUTNAM TRAVELER
PU T N A M T R AV EL E R N E WS • NO R T HE A S T, C ON N E C T I C U T
demonstrations. A full list of winter programming is
featured on the CT Audubon website.
Indoor events at Trail Wood/Edwin Way Teale
Memorial Sanctuary in Hampton are focused on the
sanctuary’s namesake, Pulitzer Prize winning naturalist
and author Edwin
Way Teale. Scheduled
for Sunday, Feb.
7, 2-4 p.m., “Teale
Readings” offers
a chance to read,
share and discuss
your favorite Teale
passages with hot
beverages and a fire in the Trail Wood Museum (Free
but please RSVP).
“Edwin Way Teale & the Literary Character of Trail
Wood” (Sunday, Feb. 21, 2-4 p.m.) is a winter writer’s
workshop led by author Alison Davis. This is part of a
Orswell, who wanted to see wildlife protected,” Sarah
explains. “We work really hard to maintain habitats
that are specifically providing food for wildlife.” Birds
that nest on the ground or in the grasses include the
woodcock, killdeer, and the threatened or endangered
species eastern
meadowlark,
bobolink, and
savannah sparrow.
“Dog owners need
to understand that
when you’ve got
a dog romping
through it stresses
the birds and there may be no offspring,” says Sarah.
The sanctuary also supports field sparrows, blue winged
warblers, common yellowthroat, and towhees in the
transition shrub habitat and there are also woodland
ground nesting species like the oven bird.
“People need to understand that there are
designated trails and we expect people and dogs to stay
on those trails so wildlife is not driven off. Currently, we
are the only sanctuary CT Audubon owns that allows
dogs. However, wildlife is our priority. People are not
keeping their dogs on a leash and they are not cleaning
up after their dogs. We are getting to the point where we
may actually have to prohibit them.”
“It is imperative for humans and pets to stay
far away from our kestrel boxes,” Sarah warns. “The
endangered kestrel, Connecticut’s smallest falcon, have
nested for many seasons on the sanctuary but we had
no successful clutches this past summer. Nesting owls,
although in trees cannot be disturbed by our presence
or they too will not reproduce. We all need to be
mindful of this delicate balance that provides habitat for
both wildlife and humans to thrive.”
Please respect these rules, so we all (including our animals)
can enjoy the sanctuary!
Dogs must be on leash at all times (this is a state law).
People and dogs must stay on trails.
Collecting (plants of any kind) is prohibited.
series emphasizing the literary character of Trail Wood
where Teale wrote many of his books. Sarah mentions
that this is the 4th season of Writer’s in Residence
program at Trail Wood. Each year in February an exhibit
and reading of this past year’s chosen artists and writers
celebrates their accomplishments. Writers and visual
artists can apply for this juried chance to spend one
week working at the former home of Edwin Way Teale.
Applications are online at ctaudubon.org.
Sarah admits that the growing popularity of the
CT Audubon sanctuaries in Northeastern Connecticut
is a mixed blessing. “We conservatively estimate that
between programs and walkers we get over 15,000
people annually on this property. You don’t want things
to get over loved but you do want people to enjoy it.”
She is adamant about one thing for the benefit
of all—both humans, who derive pleasure from this
protected land, and animals, which rely on the
property’s resources to stay alive. She asks all visitors to
please respect the rules of the sanctuary, which are few
and simple, but exceedingly important to the mission of
this special place.
“Bafflin Sanctuary in Pomfret is a grassland bird
sanctuary. This 700-acre property was saved by Lois
Connecticut Audubon Society’s Grassland Bird
Conservation Center is located at 218 Day Road,
Pomfret Center. Center Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00
a.m.-4:00 p.m., Saturday-Sunday Noon-4:00 p.m. The
adjoining 700-acre Bafflin Sanctuary is open daily,
year-round, from dawn to dusk.
Trail Wood is located at 93 Kenyon Road in
Hampton. This 168-acre Trail Wood Sanctuary
is open daily, year-round, from dawn to dusk.
(Buildings open to the public only by appointment.)
For more information on membership, trails and
programs (including cost, times and dates), visit
www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret or call (860)
928-4948.
The mission of the Audubon is to conserve
Connecticut’s environment through science-based
education and advocacy focused on the state’s bird
populations and their habitats. Visit the website
to learn how to become a member, volunteer, and
participate in programs.
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112 Main Street
Putnam
860.963.0105
www.artsandframingputnam.com
www.101bs.com
winter, warm bright and colorful
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An oasis in
Green and flowering plants, terrariums,
air plants & accessories. Seasonal home décor,
Stonewall Kitchen, fine chocolates and
party wares to enhance your celebrations.
We need your support to help us
preserve and protect land in
Northeast Connecticut.
Conserving land in the
Quiet Corner for 41 years.
260 Rte. 171 • South Woodstock, CT
(860) 928-0571 • Mon - Sat 9-5, Sunday Seasonal
www.gardengatefloristct.com
For more information about our work and how
you can enjoy our preserves, visit us at
www.wyndhamlandtrust.org or find us on Facebook.
Your membership and donations are tax deductible.
PUTNAM TRAVELER
7
PU T N A M T R AV EL E R N E WS • NO R T HE A S T, C ON N E C T I C U T
EDUCATION,
INFORMATION AND
FRIENDSHIP
Winter weather need not keep us indoors. Quinebaug Valley Community College in Dayville
offers a variety of programs to enliven even the longest winter days and nights.
BY NANCY P. WEISS
“W
e’re a community college and we always go
back to the word ‘community’. I feel we have a variety of offerings that can meet the
needs of many demographic groups,” said Sue Breault,
Director of College Marketing and Communications.
The college offers credit and non-credit courses
and well as open houses for area residents under the
auspices of both the college and the non-profit, QVCC
Foundation. The Spirol Gallery of Visual and Performing
Arts vibrates with the lively work of students, who
present their creative products in a wide variety of media.
Jen Espeseth, a Graphics Specialist and Adjunct
Faculty in the Art Department, said: “We showcase
everything out students learn in a semester. Our shows
feature art majors and non-majors. For some students
this is the first time they have ever shown their work
in public. The Gallery gives the community and other
students the chance to see what art is all about here.
There are 30-40 pieces from my class alone. We cover
everything from painting, sculpture, photography,
computer graphics 3-modeling and printing.”
The Spirol Gallery is open Monday-Friday from 8:308:00 and is located in the main lobby of the college.
The Student Exhibit runs until February 5, 2016.
OTHER EXHIBITS:
•
•
•
Katherine Meyers- Installation March 204. Opening reception: Monday, March 28, 6-8pm.
Take down: April 6-8.
Graduate Student Show – Installation:
April 18-21. Opening reception: Thursday,
April 21, 6-8pm. Take down: April 28-29.
Spring Student Exhibit- Installation: May 2-5. Opening reception: Thursday, May 5, 6-8pm.
For individuals interested in developing new
leadership skills, there is a four-module series, entitled
Leadership At All Levels, taught by veteran instructor
Rockie Blunt, Ed.D. The course begins with an
assessment of personal leadership styles in module one
and progresses through interpersonal leadership, team
leadership and culminates in organizational leadership.
The first module runs from January19-Feb. 9, with all
classes meeting from 8:30 am-12: 30pm. Participants
who complete the course receive a Master Certificate in
Leadership. Contact Kerstin Comtois at kcomtois@
qvcc.edu to enroll or for more information.
The Customer Service Boot Camp, which is offered
February 10-11 from 9am-4pm, is a popular program for
individuals and companies interested in beefing up their
internal and external customer service function. Taught
by Rockie Blunt, the program offers real life examples to
help improve communications, sales and competencies
for the growth and success of organizations.
Donna from Linemaster Switch Corporation
enrolled in the course and said: “After taking the
Customer Service Boot Camp training, I will be able
to take the suggestions, tips and new information
back to my position and apply it to my daily job and
interactions with internal colleagues and external
customers.” Contact Kerstin Comtois at kcomtois@
qvcc.edu for further information.
Continuing Education is at the core of the college’s
mission and winter offers a variety of classes that can
lead to a new career, new skills and new competencies.
In the health and healthcare field, there are courses
in Certified Nursing Assistant, EMT, Medical Office
Receptionist, Pharmacy Technician, Adult & Pediatric
First Aid/CPR/AED, Phlebotomy for Nurses, a new
course this year.
Always alert to changes challenges in the
community, the college is offering a program:
Responses & Resources: A Community Conversation
about Youth Mental Health on March 17.
A new direction this spring is entitled
Personal Health Topics and will include:
• You Can Live Without Allergies – April 7
• End the Nutrition Nightmare – April 14
• Stop Brain Fog – April 21
Several courses are mainstays including:
• Real Estate Principles& Practices, which meets in Danielson on Monday and Wednesdays from March 7-May 23 and in Willimantic on Tuesdays and Thursdays from February 16-May 3
• Grant Writing – An introduction from two times, April 1& 8
• Veterinary Assistant, a course that reportedly fills quickly, meets April5-November 1
• Photography – Get Out of the Automode! runs from March 8-April 26
Express Computer Training includes Access, Excel,
Word, Powerpoint, Photoshop and Quickbooks on a
variety of locations from March through May. Classes
run from 9am-4pm unless otherwise noted with evening
classes in getting started and moving beyond the basics.
For more information or to register contact
Continuing Education at 860-932-4005 or
www.QVCC.edu/ce.
LiR offers ‘lifelong learning for adults’ in a
‘stimulating and social environment’. Founded in
1994, last year the organization had 429 members. Over
time it has also created two endowed scholarships for
QVCC students. There is an annual membership fee
of $20 for the year that runs from September 2015June2016. New members are welcome year round.
www.qvcc.edu/ce/LiR offers updates.
For winter 2016, Dynamic Duos (3 sessions) of
Friday films will look at pairings of films in The Thin
Man Goes Home, The Odd Couple and When Harry
Met Sally. Presenter Beth Alves, an English professor
at QVCC will be present on Fridays, January22,
29,February 5, 1:00-3:00 in the Auditorium.
Clare Despathy and Sheila Johnson, retired teachers
and members of the LiR Curriculum Committee will
offer a four session program entitled: A Smithsonian
Tour Through American History. Topics range from
The Star Spangled Banner to Immigrant Dreams and
Immigrant Struggles on Tuesdays, January 12,19,26,
February 2 - 10:00-12:00. Auditorium.
Flashback Movies (3 session) will focus on moves
from the 1980’s, with presenter Sheila Johnson. Movies
ware Peggy Sue Got Married, Back to the Future,
American Graffiti. Movie sessions are Tuesdays, January
12, 19, 26 - 1:00-3:00. Auditorium.
Full Service Restaurant, Private Dining, Catering
Freshest Ingredients Prepared With A Continental Touch
Gourmet Dining • Seasonal Menu • Fine Wine
SEATING
Tues-Thurs 5-8:30
Fri & Sat 5-9:00
Sunday Brunch 11-2:00
& Dinner 4-8:00
Reservations Requested
~ Inviting Ambience of a Classic Era ~
A Hidden Gem in Connecticut’s Quiet Corner
860-974-3456
29 Plaine Hill Road
Woodstock, CT
974-3456
Visit us on the web at
mansionatbaldhill.com
Make Your Next Special Occasion “Simply Memorable”
8
PUTNAM TRAVELER
Putnam, CT 06260 • 860.933.2221
PU T N A M T R AV EL E R N E WS • NO R T HE A S T, C ON N E C T I C U T
The Vanilla Bean Café
A musical destination
In a world filled with hype, the Vanilla Bean Café is the real thing.
Named “Connecticut’s Best Country Café” by a prominent magazine, the Bean,
as locals know it, is a constant, lively presence at 450 Deerfield Rd in Pomfret.
Presenter Roger Pellerine, PiR’s Treasurer will share
videos from his collection in 4 sessions, entitled Concert
Video Series. The programs will be: Farewell Concert
of the Statler Brothers, Neil Diamond in Concert, Daniel
O’Donnell-Stand Beside Me, John Denver - The Wildlife
Concert. Concert dates are Fridays, January 15, 22, 29,
February 5 - 10:00-12:00. Auditorium. LiR will hold an
Open House on Friday, February 19th at 1:00pm.
In March the full range of programs will resume,
according to LiR committee members. These offerings
range from travel and history to health, nature, foreign
affairs and hobbies. Presenters are drawn from the
community and from QVCC and UConn faculty.
www.qvcc.ed/ce/LiR for more information.
Director of Development, Monique C. Wolanin
works with the volunteer board of the QVCC
Foundation on a variety of programs to raise funds in
support of the college. The lively, well-attended events
add a special spark and further the mission of outreach
to the community while helping to support students.
“The QVCC Foundation hosts various events
throughout the year. The goal is to raise money and
to introduce QVCC to residents of NECT and beyond
who might not know what a gem is located in their
own backyard. Thanks to community support, the
Foundation provided $190,000 to area students last
year alone! New friends of QVCC are welcome at
upcoming events,” Wolanin said.
EVENTS FOR 2016:
The Spelling Bee – January 20, the adult spelling bee
is a fun filled raucous evening at the Putnam Elks. Get
your team together now by contacting:
www.qvcc.edu/foundation
Visions and Leadership – Offers an opportunity
to learn from a nationally recognized speaker on
topics ranging from the reflections of a Navy SEAL to
observations of life as a swordfish boat captain. The
evening includes a chance to mingle with members
of the QVCC community and hear outstanding
presentations. Contact [email protected] or 860932-4174 for more information.
QVCC offers area residents a chance to enjoy movies,
take a course, explore new career options, bask in the
creativity of others or take try one’s hand at something
new. Winter can open a new world of education,
information and friendship.
BY NANCY P. WEISS
I
n warm weather, customers sit on the porch
in the sunshine or eat beneath the spreading
branches of ancient trees, but in winter, the
restaurant takes on a warmer aspect, beckoning
visitors to come in out of the cold and dark for
hearty soups and warming conversations. On chilly
evenings, the Bean offers not only sustinance for the
body, but music to brighten the soul.
Well known for its modern take on standard
café fare and its lively atmosphere, the eatery
also plays an important role in the music scene
throughout New England. The roster of musicians
who got their start performing in the cozy main
room of the Vanilla Bean could fill a songbook of
Who’s Who. Its role in the pantheon of important
music venues is noted in its place on the National
Folk Music Circuit.
Since 1990 the Vanilla Bean has been hosting
music in the folk tradition.
Brian Jessurun, co-owner with his brother, Barry,
noted: “We’re iconic. It all began twenty-five years
ago because we had friends who played. It evolved.
We give 90% of the proceeds to the musicians and
10% to the host. People come for dinner before
the show and that adds to the atmosphere. We’ve
especially proud of the annual benefit for the
Northeastern Connecticut Food Bank, this year on
January 30, and Woodstock Academy Open Mic on
March 18th for Project Graduation.”
Howie Bursen, musician and winemaker,
organized the first concert to benefit the food bank
nearly a quarter a century ago as a natural outgrowth
of his commitment to “ thinking globally and acting
locally, “I wanted to do the concert and four friends
joined me. Every year Jeff Davis, Martin Grosswendt,
and John Bailey play with me. John Bailey drives six
hours from central New York to join us. These guys
are pros and they donate their time and talent. Every
dollar raised goes to the food bank budget and can
be leveraged to buy as much as $8 for every dollar
contributed,” Bursen said, noting that the program
has sold out several times.
Music at the VBC follows a schedule. Except
for January and July, the 1st Friday of every month
features Open Mic.
In 2016, Ellis Paul will perform on Saturday,
January 16. Paul is described as bridging “the
gulf between modern folk sound and the populist
traditions of Woody Guthrie and Pete Seger.”
• JANUARY 23 - will bring Don White, a seasoned professional, who has worked with many folk legends, to the stage.
• JANUARY 30 - features Howie Bursen and Friends for the benefit of the NE CT Food Bank.
February 5 brings Open Mic – Wishbone Zoe
• FEBRUARY 6 - will feature the CD release and performance by Kevin Connolly.
• FEBRUARY 12 - sees host Lisa Martin with Hootenanny and Songwriting.
• FEBRUARY 13 - brings local Blues band Delta Generators to the stage.
• FEBRUARY 20 - local band Uninvited Wilson will perform.
FEBRUARY 21 - opens with Hayley Readon for Peter Mulvey.
• FEBRUARY 27 - rock band Pat McGee will shake things up.
• MARCH 4 - is Open Mic- Charles Paul
• MARCH 5 - duo Ron Anthony & Denny Collin on stage
• MARCH 11 - is Hootenanny/Sessions hosted by Lisa Martin
• MARCH 12 - bring Blackstone Valley Bluegrass to the Bean
• MARCH 18 - is Open Mic for Woodstock Academy students to benefit Project Graduation
• MARCH 19 - will be alive with the iconic music of Cashel Rock
Tickets range from $5 for Open Mic to $10, $15,
and $20 depending on the performances and
can be purchased in advance or at the door (cash
or check only). All shows start at 8:00 unless
otherwise noted. Call ahead as shows are subject
to change. More information can be found online
at www.thevanillabeancafe.com in the calendar
section. Information about the artist(s) and links
to artist own web pages.
WOODSTOCK , CT
Unique Clothing & Gifts
253 RT 171, SOUTH WOODSTOCK
(next to the Woodstock Fairgrounds)
860-928-1514 • Open W - S, 10-5 and Sun 12-5
PUTNAM TRAVELER
9
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