OLD LYME — On Sunday, Sept. 11, Saint Ann’s Episcopal Church at 82 Shore Rd. in Old Lyme welcomes one and all to a joyful Welcome Back Breakfast at 9:30 a.m. in the Griswold Room.
The event will be held after the 8:30 a.m. service and before the 10:30 a.m. one.
Congregants will gather in fellowship for an Old-fashioned Church Breakfast, as they look forward to helping friends and neighbors during the coming year.
Lyme Public Hall. Photo submitted.
LYME — The George House Tag Sale will be held at the Lyme Public Hall on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The sale will feature housewares, furniture, tools, jewelry, and unexpected treasures. Proceeds will benefit the maintenance of the Lyme Public Hall, the Lyme Local History Archives, and programs for the public.
The final intake for tag sale item donation drop-off at the Lyme Public Hall will be held this evening (Tuesday, Sept. 13) from 5 to 8 p.m.
The Hall will gladly welcome good quality items such as solid wood furniture, tools, antiques, jewelry, housewares, fine china and linens, sporting goods, musical instruments and gift items.
The Hall is unable to accept large appliances, upholstered or particle board furniture, consumer electronics (TVs, computers, fax machines, etc.) or large exercise equipment. In addition, no clothing, books or toys will be accepted for sale.
For a complete list of accepted items, visit lymepublichall.org.
The Lyme Public Hall is located at 249 Hamburg Rd. (Rte. 156) in Lyme, Conn.
For more information on the Lyme Public Hall Tag Sale, email [email protected]
OLD LYME, CT – The Southeast Connecticut World Affairs Council (SECWAC) opens the 2022-2023 speakers’ series on Wednesday, Sept. 21, with an informative talk about the coronavirus pandemic and its global implications.
The featured speaker will be award-winning science writer Carl Zimmer (pictured at left) presenting “Science and Research During the Pandemic: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.” The talk will take place at 6 p.m. at the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme.
Attendees will also be able to join us via Zoom. Learn more and register at secwac.org.
A columnist for The New York Times and the author of 14 books and countless magazine articles for publications such as National Geographic, The Atlantic, and Discover, Zimmer earned a B.A. in English from Yale, where he currently serves as an adjunct professor in the Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry and teaches writing.
The recipient of the 2016 Stephen Jay Gould Prize, awarded for the Study of Evolution, Zimmer has also won awards from the National Academy of Sciences and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
His 2018 book, She Has Her Mother’s Laugh: The Powers, Perversions, and Potential of Heredity (the subject of a fascinating SECWAC talk a few years ago), was named a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times Book Review and the best science book of 2018 by The Guardian.
Zimmer’s presentation on Sept. 21 will explore lessons from the influenza of 1918. What did we learn a century ago and what has science and research in the age of coronavirus taught us about controlling the spread, testing, and reporting of disease? What have we learned about the role of multinational cooperation in stemming the spread of a disease that recognizes no borders? How can those lessons prepare us for future pandemics in our interconnected world?
For more than 20 years, SECWAC has been inviting leading global voices to our region to foster a deeper understanding of the world, our country’s international role and diplomatic history, and the policies and actions that impact individuals and communities at home and abroad.
A nonprofit dedicated to discussing issues of global importance, SECWAC presents up to a dozen speakers each year. Events are free for members, students, and educators and $20 for non-members.
Visit secwac.org for registration and membership details and to learn about other upcoming speakers.
Co-Artistic Director Amaya Gurpide gives an introduction to portrait drawing to students at Lyme Academy. Photo by Andrew Paez.
OLD LYME — Lyme Academy of Fine Arts invites both aspiring and experienced artists of all ages to participate in a free information session on Wednesday, Sept. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Interested students will have the opportunity to tour the campus and studio spaces, and to learn more about the new art class offerings for 2022-2023, including the Studio Immersion and Young Masters Afterschool Programs.
In addition, live drawing demonstrations by Academy members will provide a glimpse into the high level of instruction that students receive at the Academy.
The session will also include an opportunity to meet the faculty, including Lyme resident and acclaimed artist Rick Lacey, Director of Youth Programs, and Edmond Rochat, new Director of Continuing Education and Principal Anatomy Instructor at Lyme Academy.
A registration table will be on site to facilitate enrollment in all ongoing and upcoming classes.
De Gerenday’s Fine Art Materials and Curiosities, newly opened on the Academy campus, will be open during the event.
Registration for the Information Session is appreciated for planning purposes but not required. To register for the Information Session, visit this link.
The mission of the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts is to teach the foundational skills of drawing, painting, and sculpture in the figurative tradition. By its commitment to training students in these skills and an engagement with contemporary discourse, the Academy will empower a new generation of artists.
Through its programs and related ventures, including the opening of de Gerenday’s Fine Art Materials and Curiosities on its historic campus, the Academy is committed to enriching the cultural life of the community. Learn more by visiting www.lymeacademy.edu.
OLD LYME — On Wednesday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m., the Old Lyme Historical Society Incorporated (OLHSI) hosts Franklin Donohue, who will give a presentation titled, Mechanical Banks of the Mid-19th and Early-20th Century.
In 1869, the J & E Stevens Company of Cromwell, Conn. began making Iron Banks that performed an action when coins were deposited into them. Mechanical banks quickly became popular with both children and adults throughout America and beyond.
Come and hear all about the fascinating history of these intriguing machines.
The event will take place at the Society’s building at 55 Lyme St. in Old Lyme. All are welcome and admission is free.
This is the third in a series of speaker events sponsored by the OLHSI.
Donations are welcome for the Carol Noyes Winters Scholarship Fund.
For more information about the OLHSI, including upcoming events and membership details, visit this link.
OLD LYME — The BookCellar at the Old Lyme-Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library is holding an ‘Entertainment Extravaganza Sale’ in the Library’s Community Room this Thursday, Sept. 22, from 12 to 4 p.m. and Friday, Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All puzzles will be on sale for $2 each as well as overstocked DVDs and CDs will be sold at three for $1.
Claudia Condon, a volunteer at the BookCellar told LymeLine, “We are hoping folks take advantage of these fabulous prices to stock up for the fall and winter months.”
For further information, visit the library’s website.
OLD LYME — The BookCellar at the Old Lyme-Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library is holding an ‘Entertainment Extravaganza Sale’ in the Library’s Community Room this Thursday, Sept. 22, from 12 to 4 p.m. and Friday, Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All puzzles will be on sale for $2 each as well as overstocked DVDs and CDs will be sold at three for $1.
Claudia Condon, a volunteer at the BookCellar told LymeLine, “We are hoping folks take advantage of these fabulous prices to stock up for the fall and winter months.”
Second Annual LOLFSG Open House Slated for Saturday, Sept. 24, All Welcome
OLD LYME — The Lyme-Old Lyme Food Share Garden (LOLFSG) celebrated a milestone this week!
Following a much-needed rain event, mid-week volunteers harvested kale, tomatoes, string beans, peppers, eggplants, and more. In doing so, the garden reached a total donation threshold of more than 2000 pounds of produce in its first growing season.
The LOLFSG President Jim Ward commented, “This incredible accomplishment is due to the dedication of volunteers and community support.”
Ward noted that the realistic LOLFSG goal for the 2023 season is to double production and is already looking forward to a “Two-Ton Tuesday.”
To celebrate the successful inaugural growing season and to learn more about the garden, all are invited to visit the 2nd Annual LOLFSG Open House on Saturday, Sept. 24, at the garden from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
The garden is located at Town Woods Park behind the Field House and playground.
OLD LYME/LYME — On Saturday, Sept. 24, Lyme resident Joe Fitzgerald, pictured left, will bring his Quartet to The Side Door at the Old Lyme Inn.
The Joe Fitzgerald Quartet comprises Fitzgerald on bass, Kenny Wessel on guitar, Frank Carlberg on piano and Anthony Pinciotti on drums.
Fitzgerald has been in the thick of the New York jazz world for the last few decades, performing, recording and touring internationally with many prominent artists including John Abercrombie, Donald Brown, Dominique Eade, Lee Konitz, Datevik Hovanesian, Bruce Barth , Ted Curson , Kenny Wessel and countless others.
He is very much looking forward to this return to The Side Door. Visit this link to purchase tickets.
Guitarist and composer, Kenny Wessel has worked in projects playing jazz, ranging from straight-ahead to free music, and continues to explore world music, investigating points of intersection between jazz and North Indian music. He has toured and recorded with Ornette Coleman for over 12 years as a member of Prime Time.
He is currently on the faculties of Western Connecticut State University and the New York Jazz Workshop. For more info, visit www.kenwessel.com, or to contact Kenny, [email protected].
Originally a native of Helsinki, Finland, Frank Carlberg has carved himself quite a niche in the New York jazz community. As a leader, Frank’s groups include the Frank Carlberg’s Word Circus, the Tivoli Trio and The Frank Carlberg Large Ensemble.
In addition to his playing and composing activities Carlberg also serves on the faculty at New England Conservatory. He is also a partner in Red Piano Records, an artist run cooperative label.
Anthony Pinciotti is a dynamic, innovative drummer well versed in jazz, rock, and world music. Based in New York City, Anthony performs and tours extensively with many of the most vital and forward-looking musicians on the scene today.
For more information about The Side Door, visit this link.
OLD LYME — On Sunday, Sept. 25, at 4 p.m., Saint Ann’s of Old Lyme hosts a presentation by the Sikh community of the Guru Ram Das Ashram & Gurdwara, the New England regional center for Sikh Dharma and Kundalini Yoga in Millis, Mass. This is the first program in the fall session.
Guru Ram Das Ashram & Gurdwara is a spiritual community, whose foundation rests on service and the practice of yoga and meditation. They host daily classes, workshops, and retreats in yoga, meditation, and healing.
In their Yoga Center each morning, they hold yoga and meditation practice, sadhana. In their Gurdwara, they practice kirtan chanting, as well as hold weekly worship services.
Founded in Boston in 1970, the Guru Ram Das Ashram & Gurdwara Ashram offers a spacious, peaceful, 20-acre home to guests and residential community members, and is open to the public.
Open to all ages, the Sept. 25 program will include an introduction to both Sikhism and to kirtan and will be presented by Gwir Llewellyn, Abhai Raj Singh Llewellyn, Jagan Nath Khalsa and Avtar Kaur Khalsa at no charge to the public.
LYME/OLD LYME — In partnership with the Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) and the Lymes’ Senior Center, Ledge Light Health District will host a COVID-19 Bivalent Vaccine Booster Clinic tomorrow, Tuesday, Sept. 27, from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Lymes’ Senior Center.
Only the Moderna vaccine (primary series and booster) will be available at this clinic, which is for individuals 18 years or older.
The updated booster from Moderna is designed to help protect against multiple COVID-19 variants. Everyone 18 and up is eligible to receive the updated Moderna booster as long as it has been two months since your last COVID vaccination.
The clinic is free; no appointment is necessary. No insurance or ID is necessary. Bring your CDC vaccination card if you have one.
Visit www.LLHD.org or follow @LedgeLightHD on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for additional clinic announcements, including for pediatric clinics.
Ledge Light Health District serves as the local health department for East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Lyme, New London, North Stonington, Old Lyme, Stonington and Waterford, Connecticut. As a health district, formed under Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-241, LLHD is a special unit of government, allowing member municipalities to provide comprehensive public health services to residents in a more efficient manner by consolidating the services within one organization.
Ledge Light Health District ’s mission statement – to prevent disease, illness and injury; to protect and nurture our environment; and to promote improved health and prosperity for all residents – describes in more detail their slogan of “promoting healthy communities.”
OLD LYME — Old Lyme’s Planning Commission will hold a Special Meeting/Public Hearing tomorrow evening, Thursday, Sept. 29, at 5 p.m. in Old Lyme’s Memorial Town Hall.
After the Pledge of Allegiance, there are only two items on the agenda and since it is a Special Meeting, no changes or addition to the agenda can be made.
The first agenda item is the continuation of the Public Hearing regarding the application by Keystone Capital Corporation for the resubdivision of 16 Neck Rd. into nine lots.
The second item, assuming the Public Hearing is closed, is for members of the board to discuss and then possibly vote on the proposal.
The land at 16 Neck Rd. is the same area where the HOPE Partnership endeavored to secure approval for a 37-unit Affordable Housing development back in 2018, which became a highly controversial topic in the community.
The new proposal is for a gated community of nine building lots.
Both the OL Open Space Commission and the Connecticut River Gateway Commission have submitted letters for consideration at tomorrow’s meeting to the Planning Commission. Both letters can be viewed in full at the links given above.
The Open Space Commission’s letter, signed by its co-chairs Amanda Blair and Evan Griswold, states, “It appears that no open space is indicated on the applicant’s plan and, even if land were set aside, the gated premises to be accessed by private roadway would not afford public access.”
The letter continues, “In accordance with the provisions of C.G.S. § 8-25, when there is not a suitable area within a subdivision and when there are other areas with Town that the Open Space Commission considers more beneficial to be preserved, the Planning Commission may authorize the applicant to pay a fee in lieu of open space of up to 10% of land’s pre-subdivision appraised value.”
The two-page letter proposes that, although, “It is the Planning Commission’s discretion to determine such payment,” the Planning Commission should request the 10 percent fee of the purchase price from the developer, which it states, “… would equal $105,010.”
These monies would then be used by the Open Space Commission to assist in the purchase other open space properties in the town as they arise. The letter explains, “Although we cannot identify the specific parcels, we will report to you that the Open Space Commission is now actively talking to or considering approaching the owners of at least four properties in Town for acquisition.”
Asked about the possibility of the Open Space Commission receiving a fee in lieu of the absence of open space in a building proposal, Griswold responded in a phone conversation with LymeLine that, “This has happened before,” citing the example of a proposed development on Binney Rd. submitted, “around three years ago.”
He added, however, that a similar previous request by the Open Space Commission regarding a proposed development on Mile Creek Rd. was declined by the Planning Commission on the basis it was, “a family-oriented subdivision.”
The CT River Gateway Commission four-page letter, signed by the Deputy Director of the River COG [Council of Governments] Staff, Gateway Commission Torrance Downes, describes the property at 16 Neck Rd. as “a highly visible riverfront parcel.”
In summary the letter says, “The Gateway Commission would recommend such an [Conservation] easement be placed along the banks of the Connecticut River at the western end of the property.”
It goes on to request that the Planning Commission should, “… use all of the regulatory tools available in its decision-making process to manage the development of the site – at least with respect to the western hillside of the property facing the Connecticut River.”
The letter continues, “Protection of natural areas including mature tree stands is recommended for consideration of open space designation,” noting, “Retention of an attractive and rural community appearance, which would include the treed hillsides of the Connecticut River, should be “one of the most important criteria used in land use decision making”.”
Concluding, “Community Appearance recommendations state visual details including preservation of natural site features and vistas are critical components of the town character Old Lyme is charged with protecting,” the letter notes, “Preserving and maintaining the tree cover on the river-facing side of this property is consistent with these … recommendations.”
Members of the community can address either or both of these issues during the Public Hearing or submit letters or emails to the Old Lyme Land Use Department prior to the meeting.
OLD LYME — Tomorrow, Saturday, Oct. 1, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Old Lyme-Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library hosts its first Annual Community Plant & Bulb Swap.
Fall is the perfect time to divide your perennials and bulbs, so pot or bag the ones you have to swap and then label them– but you do not need to have plants to swap to participate.
A Master Gardener will be available to answer questions
It is requested that no invasive plants are brought to swap.
This event, which is co-sponsored by Duck River Garden Club of Old Lyme, will be held rain or shine either on the Library Lawn or in the Community Room as the weather dictates.
“Conduct Us” October 2, 2022, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM, Hygienic Art Park
On Sunday, October 2 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., members of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra will be located at Hygienic Arts waiting to perform, all they need is a conductor. The general public will have a chance to conduct In the Hall of the Mountain King, Blue Danube Waltz, Toreador Song from Carmen, Can-Can from Orpheus in the Underworld, and William Tell Overture (The Lone Ranger Theme.) Everyone is invited to step up to the podium and try their hand at conducting the orchestra. Our Music Director and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada will be there to give guidance and encouragement to the volunteer maestros!
Hygienic Art is located at 79 Bank Street, New London. This unique experience is free and open to the public in the outdoor Frank Loomis Palmer Amphitheater. Pack a lunch or enjoy takeout from the many eateries on Bank Street and come enjoy a gorgeous fall afternoon with us. Families and children are welcome and encouraged.
“Conduct Us” started when the ECSO participated in the international Make Music Day movement, which brings free, community-wide, outdoor musical celebrations to hundreds of cities worldwide! We last held this fun community event in Mystic River Park and we are delighted to bring it to New London.
LYME — On Sunday, Oct. 2, join Pete Picone, Connecticut DEEP wildlife biologist and native habitat expert, for a tour of the meadow and surrounding shrubland in Jewett Preserve.
The meadow walk, which is co-sponsored by the Lyme Land Trust, Lyme Pollinator Pathway and the Town of Lyme, will start at 1:30 p.m. and last until 3:30 p.m.
Meet at the Jewett Preserve in Lyme, Conn. Park in the lot on McIntosh Rd, about 1/4 mile from the intersection with Rte. 156.
During the tour, Picone will make recommendations for nurturing the vegetation that provides habitat for wildlife. Learn about which plants are beneficial for pollinators, and how to manage invasives. His guidance can be applied to enhancing habitat in your own back yard.
Registration is required at [email protected]
OLD LYME — The final Hikers’ Happy Hour of 2022, sponsored by the Open Space Commission, the Old Lyme Land Trust, and the Old Lyme Inn, will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 5.
A guided hike will leave at 4:15 p.m. from the Bunny Hutch behind the Old Lyme Inn to explore the Champlain North Preserve.
After the hike, a friendly happy hour at the Old Lyme Inn will follow from 5 to 7 p.m. Drinks will be half-price from 5 to 6 p.m.
Even if you do not hike, you are still welcome at the Inn for Happy Hour.
Hikers should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent.
In the event of rain, meet at the Old Lyme Inn for Happy Hour instead of the Bunny Hutch.
Information on the Champlain South Open Space and its trails may be found at: https://www.oldlyme-ct.gov/
OLD LYME — The final Hikers’ Happy Hour of 2022, sponsored by the Open Space Commission, the Old Lyme Land Trust, and the Old Lyme Inn, will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 5.
A guided hike will leave at 4:15 p.m. from the Bunny Hutch behind the Old Lyme Inn to explore the Champlain North Preserve.
After the hike, a friendly happy hour at the Old Lyme Inn will follow from 5 to 7 p.m. Drinks will be half-price from 5 to 6 p.m.
Even if you do not hike, you are still welcome at the Inn for Happy Hour.
Hikers should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent.
In the event of rain, meet at the Old Lyme Inn for Happy Hour instead of the Bunny Hutch.
Information on the Champlain South Open Space and its trails may be found at: https://www.oldlyme-ct.gov/
The Old Lyme Fire Department will host its annual Open House this evening, Wednesday, Oct. 5, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event will be held at the main firehouse located on 69 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, Conn.
All are welcome to this night of events, food, games and prizes.
Activities will include
- Fire safety and firefighting demonstrations.
- Fire truck rides
- Bike Rodeo and helmet giveaway
- Life jacket information from the DEEP
- CHIP Child ID Program information
State of the art firefighting apparatus and equipment will also be demonstrated and on display.
Information pertinent to preventing fire-related incidents and home evacuation will be available for all ages.
Complimentary refreshments will be served.
Fire Department and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel will be on hand to answer any questions the public may have to ensure a safer environment for children and adults.
Admission is free and all are welcome.
Regular Board of Education Meeting
October 5, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. in the Board of Education Conference Room at Center School
LIVE STREAM OF MEETING: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF2_W7yYtFwx067Ici9776Q/live
I. Call to Order
II. Approval of Minutes
- Special District Meeting of September 7, 2022
- Regular Meeting of September 7, 2022
III. Visitors
- Preschool Students
- Unified Sports Team Recognition
- Recognition of Teacher of the Year and Employee of the Year
- Report from Student Representatives
- Public Comment
While in person public comment is still acceptable, those wishing to make public comment virtually may use the following Zoom link: https://region18.zoom.sus/j/87635839590; Meeting ID: 876 3583 9590; +16465588656,,83527766795# US (New York). Those choosing this option will be required to follow the same expectations for those making public comment in person. After being recognized by the chairperson, participants must state their name and place of residence before making their comments to the Board.
IV. Correspondence
V. Administrative Reports
- Superintendent’s Report
- Business Manager’s Report
VI. Educational Presentation
- Report on Results of Annual State Achievement Tests (SAT, AP, SBAC and NGSS)
VII. Chair and Committee Reports (Facilities, Finance, Communications, Policy, LEARN, LOL Prevention Coalition)
VIII. New Business
- LOLHS Field Trip Request
- Setting of Graduation Date for Class of 2023
- Budget Process Timeline
- Appropriation to the Reserve Fund for Capital and Nonrecurring Expenditures
- Policy Review
- Childrearing Leave Request
IX. Old Business
- Closing of LOLHS Project
X. Executive Session
XI. Adjournment
OLD LYME — This evening from 5 to 7 p.m., the Lyme-Old Lyme (LOL) Lions Club host their kick-off event of the year at the Old Lyme Inn. The event will be held out on the patio or indoors, if it is raining. All are welcome.
Hearty appetizers will be served. There will be a cash wine and beer bar, and as guests of the LOL Lions, your first drink will be complimentary.
Join the event to learn about Lions Club activities and membership in the organization.
The LOL Lions give back all the funds they raise from their car show, pancake breakfast and many other events to the community.
The Lions invite you to join them, make new friends, and learn how you can serve the communities of Lyme and Old Lyme.
For more information, or if you have questions, contact Lion Karen Geisler at 860-434-5321.