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SEASONS of the Farmington Valley® easons’ reetings ® GWelcome to the summer issue of S Seasons Magazines! In this issue, we’re inspired by the Visit us online at outdoors, warmer temperatures and www.seasonsmagazines.com tropical locales. We take you inside Follow us on Twitter a Wallingford-based Polynesian @SeasonsMag dance company that brings the Like us on Facebook movements – and deep meaning – Facebook.com/SeasonsMedia behind hula to life. We also explore the pleasures and scenery of kayaking Summer in Connecticut, and urge you to ® 2021 Seasons of the Farmington Valley try cooking up something new by is published by Seasons Magazines throwing your salad (yes, salad) on James P. Tully, Owner/Publisher the grill this summer. Creative Director Cara Rosner Stacy Wright Murray We’re excited to share what Editor Connecticut theaters have planned for the summer and beyond. With Cara Rosner Page 8. Page 32. Page 50. Page 64. many preparing to welcome live audiences back in person for the Sales & Marketing Executive Health & Wellness Innovations in Home Entertainment first time since early 2020, it’s an exciting time as we begin to move Doreen Chudoba Dr. Mary Bailey of Saint Health Care The pandemic has Theaters and music beyond the pandemic into our “new normal.” We also take look at Francis Hospital Doctors at UConn spurred a booming venues welcome live another pandemic-inspired trend – the surge of people buying second and Medical Center. Health approach to housing market in audiences back this stroke treatment. Connecticut, including summer. homes here in Connecticut – and get some expert pet advice from the For advertising information please contact Jim at (860) 413-2022 Page 17. among those shopping husband-and-wife hosts of CBS’ “Lucky Dog.” [email protected] Adventure Page 36. for second homes. Page 72. Seasons Media, LLC Kayaking has gained As always, I encourage you to connect with us on social media and let Sports Pets PO Box 92 popularity since the start Former pro soccer player Page 58. The hosts of CBS’ “Lucky us know what you think. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter. West Simsbury, CT 06092 of the pandemic. Grab a Kristine Lilly molds History Dog” offer insights into paddle and get on the water. the next generation of Music legend Sammy their show and advice for Happy reading, athletes. Davis had a major impact pet parents. Page 24. on the long-running Arts & Culture Page 42. golf tournament now Page 78. Hula in Connecticut? Delicious known as the Travelers Final Thoughts It’s happening at a Take a salad from ordinary Championship. Sometimes, life makes you Cara Rosner Wallingford-based to extraordinary by slow down, whether you Editor Polynesian dance throwing it on the grill. want to or not. That’s not Seasons Magazines company. always a bad thing.
“IF YOU'RE NOT
We want to tell our readers BAREFOOT, stories about the interesting THEN YOU'RE people and places in our OVERDRESSED. beautiful state. It’s that ” simple. – JIM TULLY –Unknown
4 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 5 SPONSORED CONTENT This Summer, the Housing Market is Hot Practices in Care Change … Expert Advice on How to Navigate an Unprecedented Sellers’ Market Our Priorities Don’t By TERESA M. PELHAM ummer’s here and the typically have multiple offers Safety, comfort, and responsiveness time is right. No, not for above asking price within the have always been the hallmarks of dancing in the street; for first three days, and are under care and service at both of our selling your house. Your contract within the first week. Shome is likely worth more today And as I mentioned before, facilities. We don’t take anything for than it’s ever been. But before many buyers are willing to waive granted. Today our experience you hang that “For Sale” sign out contingencies such as home enables us to sustain the high quality front, you should know how the inspections, appraisals, and care these ever-changing conditions rules of the real estate game have mortgage commitment, which require. We provide personalized changed over the past wild year. makes it much more certain That’s where Dawn Gagliardi, a for the sellers that the deal will post-acute and transitional care, licensed Realtor with the Corrado close. I can’t think of a better traditional long-term care, dementia, Group in South Windsor and market to be a seller. hospice, and respite care services. West Hartford, comes in. Here, she offers some advice for buyers Q: With some unable to buy Let us tell you more. and sellers alike: homes in this competitive Family Owned and Operated market, is it better to build Q: “Love letters” (notes written by new construction? buyers to sellers, explaining why their More and more homes are coming A: As I mentioned before, the cost offer should be the one chosen) are on the market, but because it’s so of building materials has gone up no longer being accepted for legal competitive out there for buyers to get substantially this past year, and not only reasons. Why is that? homes, we’re not seeing the turnover are materials more expensive, they’re A: For a while now, buyers have been we typically would at this time of year. also in short supply, meaning they could 652 West Avon Road, Avon 130 Loomis Drive, West Hartford writing letters to sellers about why As soon as a home hits the market it take additional weeks or months to get. 860-673-2521 860-521-8700 they love their home or how they can has multiple offers, all above asking This is making the building process avonhealthcenter.com westhartfordhealth.com see their family living there in order to price, and most with no contingencies. more costly and slow. stand out in a bidding war and elicit an This is causing many sellers to hold off emotional response from the sellers. on listing their homes until they get an That being said, I have still helped And while this may sound like a sweet offer [they’re making on another home] numerous clients build their dream and endearing way for buyers to set accepted, which is causing an even homes this past year, and it’s still a great themselves apart, it can actually be a further backup of inventory coming on option if you have the time to wait and fair housing violation. the market. want something very specific. Prices have gone up across the board on new Realtors operate under a strict code Lumber and material prices are also builds and existing homes, but the low of ethics and some of the biggest sky-high so there aren’t as many new interest rates make buying worthwhile concerns are discrimination and fair construction homes being built, and even with the higher prices. If a client housing. Anything that could unfairly when they are they’re taking two to doesn’t have the time to wait for a new sway a seller to accept an offer based three times as long to complete as home to be built, and is afraid of being on a buyer’s race, religion, sexual they previously have. Because of all of outbid in a bidding war on an existing orientation or familial status – either these factors, we are seeing the lowest house, I recommend they adjust their because of blatant bias or unconscious inventory throughout most of the state search to homes in a lower price range, bias – is a liability and a legal concern. that we’ve ever seen. since most homes are selling for 5 to 10 When I’m advising clients on how percent above asking price. That way, to get offers accepted, I always ask Q: Many home values are rising they have the ability to come in with a the listing agent what the sellers are significantly. If we wait too long to strong offer and be competitive. looking for as far as terms, and I focus sell, will we miss out on these higher on accommodating those requests as prices? How long do you think it will well as any other favorable terms we be like this? can. And I get most of the offers I make A: This is definitely the best seller’s for my clients accepted, so I know this market we’ve seen in Connecticut strategy works. in years, and we really don’t know how long it will stay like this. The Q: Why is the current housing interest rates shouldn’t be going up inventory is so limited? substantially for a while, but the more A: Even before the pandemic there inventory that comes on, the less was a lack of inventory, and in addition competition there will be, which means to the low inventory, there was high less money for sellers. demand for homes due to mortgage interest rates steadily dropping. Add I have so many clients who hadn’t Call today for a free consultation in quarantine and people feeling planned on selling for a few years, but or market analysis. uncomfortable letting buyers into their want to take advantage of this market, Coldwell Banker / The Corrado Group homes, and you’ve got a recipe for very and I can’t blame them. In this market, Dawn Gagliardi pent-up demand in the market. homes that are priced appropriately 860.644.2461 6 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 HEALTH & WELLNESS
Dr. Mary Bailey By MARGARET BURKE / Photography by STAN GODLEWSKI
r. Bailey, a neurologist who symptoms in so many different body systems, a care specializes in neuroimmunology, model where all those problems can be addressed has been caring for patients with for the patient makes the most sense. So in addition multiple sclerosis (MS) at the to a neurologist to treat the MS itself, the Mandell Mandell MS Center at Mount MS Center has additional staff and resources to help Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital in patients with the physical symptoms and other impacts Hartford since 2016. Dr. Bailey explains that she was of the disease— psychological, social, or financial, for first drawn to work at the Mandell MS Center, which instance. Dr. Bailey offers, “For a patient with bladder Dopened in 2008, because of its model of coordinated symptoms, we have a urologist and for a patient with and comprehensive care. The Mandell MS Center also muscle stiffness or spasticity, we have physiatrists.” has locations at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury and There are also physical, occupational, and speech Mercy Medical Center in Springfield, Massachusetts therapists available, and Dr. Bailey points out that (all part of Trinity Health Of New England). the rehabilitation piece of care cannot be emphasized Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous enough—when patients focus on these rehabilitative system that results from the body’s immune system services in addition to medication, their outcomes are attacking the covering of nerves (myelin sheath). This much better. Other important resources available at the damage to the myelin sheath is visible on magnetic center include social workers, mental health workers, resonance imaging (MRI) and it interrupts the electrical and patient support groups. impulses which normally travel along the nerves from In January of this year, Dr. Bailey became the the brain to other parts of the body. This can cause a Trinity Health Of New England’s Regional Medical variety of symptoms such as fatigue, blurred vision, Director for Rehabilitation and Multiple Sclerosis. muscle weakness or spasms, numbness or tingling, and In this new role, Dr. Bailey says she will continue bladder or bowel dysfunction. seeing patients, but she is also tasked with the ongoing Because MS can present differently among advancement of the Mandell MS Center. She hopes individuals and because there is no laboratory test that “to create it into the best it can be and fulfill the vision can confirm a diagnosis of MS, it can be a difficult that Joyce and Andy Mandell had for it.” She explains disease to diagnose. Often, patients will have seen that the Mandells were the principal benefactors of the multiple specialists to rule out other diseases before original center. They wanted for patients and families a diagnosis of MS is confirmed. At this time, there is dealing with MS to be able to come to one place and A Physician With A Passion to Improve Lives: Dr. Mary Bailey no cure for MS, so it is considered a chronic disease. have all their needs met. takes a comprehensive approach Historically, it has been a progressive and often One of the advances that Dr. Bailey had been to treating patients with MS to ensure that each patient has all debilitating disease. However, Dr. Bailey explains interested in incorporating into MS care was the use their needs met at the Mandell that with advances in medicine and a comprehensive of telemedicine. She explains that because much of MS Center. approach to care, such as that practiced at The Mandell MS care relies heavily on the patient’s verbal history MS Center, the outlook for newly diagnosed patients is and report of symptoms, it actually lends itself to a much different than for those diagnosed in the past. telemedicine visit. While the COVID-19 pandemic Dr. Bailey explains that because MS can cause presented many challenges to the Mandell MS Center,
8 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 9 TrinityHealthOfNE.org
Dear MS Team, as it did for everyone, one good thing that emerged Dr. Bailey explains that the biggest from it was the creation of an infrastructure to support advance in the treatment of MS Our son Matthew is a go-getter and MS hasn’t stopped him. After his diagnosis two telemedicine. Providers transitioned pretty quickly back to seeing patients in person but the center is now certainly over the past decade has been the years ago, Matthew started treatment at the Mandell Center for Comprehensive able to accommodate a telemedicine visit for those who development of several high efficacy Multiple Sclerosis Care and has remained relapse-free ever since. request it. disease modifying therapies. Besides providing excellent patient care, the Mandell MS With you, the best care is always within reach. And now, for Matthew, so is anything. Center’s mission includes research and teaching. The center her a better physician. She says, “I enjoy my job because I has partnerships with both Oxford University in England With thanks, think that my personal background with MS from my dad and The Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at really allows me to connect with patients and their stories Carlton Steele Quinnipiac University. In addition to her role at the Mandell on a different level and understand at least a piece of what MS Center, Dr. Bailey serves as the Director of Institute they’re going through.” She emphasizes, “While it is my for Rehabilitation Medicine and Chair of Rehabilitation career and my job, I really enjoy what I do. I love working Medicine at Quinnipiac University. These multiple with my patients!” responsibilities keep her very busy but she says, “I love it all. Having these different roles keeps it fresh and exciting.” NEW APPROACH TO MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS TREATMENT A PERSONAL CONNECTION WITH MS Dr. Bailey explains that the biggest advance in the treatment Dr. Bailey grew up in Glastonbury. She remembers always of MS over the past decade has been the development of being interested in medicine, even as a little girl. Her several high efficacy disease modifying therapies. Their father was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis when she was approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has 5 years old, and she remembers accompanying him to see shifted the treatment approach for MS. Rather than waiting his neurologist, Dr. Timothy Vollmer, who practiced at for patients to have relapses of the disease and then stepping Yale. So when she was considering career choices during up their therapy to a higher level, the current approach is to high school, Dr. Vollmer graciously allowed her to shadow use one of these disease modifying therapies from the time him. She remembers him treating her like a medical of initial diagnosis to prevent relapses all together and to student, asking her questions and integrating her into his protect the patient’s current level of function. “The goal of clinic. That experience cemented her desire to pursue therapy now is NO future relapses and NO new lesions on medicine as a career. MRI!” she exclaims. Dr. Bailey attended Georgetown University in But Dr. Bailey thinks that one of the continuing Washington, D.C., where she majored in math and minored challenges, even though there are these new effective in English. She spent college summers working in Dr. therapies, is making sure that all patients have access to Vollmer’s office, which exposed her to more patient care them. She finds that physicians who specialize in MS and even research opportunities. She went on to pursue her are more comfortable prescribing these medications, and medical degree at Yale School of Medicine. therefore, more likely to utilize them for their patients. At Our dedicated team at the Joyce D. and Andrew J. Mandell Center for Comprehensive Multiple Sclerosis Care When asked if she knew she wanted to go into neurology the Mandell MS Center, an infusion center allows patients and Neuroscience Research provides the focused care and supportive services you need to live your best life. and specialize in multiple sclerosis because of her work to receive these medicines and be monitored on site. Dr. We care for you at every stage of MS, from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation and symptom management. with Dr. Vollmer, she replies “Actually, I tried very hard Bailey would recommend that any patient diagnosed with Through medication, therapy and specialized support services, our providers work with you to develop individ- not to pick neurology because I didn’t want to choose MS see an MS specialist at least once early on to develop a it just because I had had that exposure.” But she notes, treatment plan. ualized treatment plans to slow the disease progression and manage your MS symptoms. that with each different clinical rotation during medical school, she just didn’t get that sense of fulfillment and Margaret M. Burke, Pharm.D., BCPPS, is a freelance Learn more about MS Services at Trinity Health Of New England excitement that she felt doing neurology. So she did go medical writer with more than 25 years of clinical by visiting TrinityHealthOfNE.org/MS. on to complete a residency in neurology and a fellowship pharmacy experience, including board certification as in neuroimmunology and multiple sclerosis at Yale-New a pediatric pharmacotherapy specialist. She lives in Haven Hospital. Manchester. She and Dr. Vollmer are now colleagues, seeing each other at international meetings and discussing patient cases Stan Godlewski is an editorial, corporate and healthcare or thoughts on different medications. She believes her photographer based in Connecticut and working primarily personal connection to multiple sclerosis has helped make between Boston and New York City. SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL • MERCY MEDICAL CENTER • SAINT MARY’S HOSPITAL JOHNSON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL • MOUNT SINAI REHABILITATION HOSPITAL TRINITY HEALTH OF NEW ENGLAND MEDICAL GROUP 10 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 ™ Connecticut HAS AVOICE! 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14 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 ADVENTURE Water Works Catch Connecticut’s Kayaking Wave
Written and photographed by STAN GODLEWSKI
boatload of articles, posts, and photos in our social media feeds prompted many of us to find ways to step away from our screens and get outdoors over the past year, and exploring Connecticut from the bow of a kayak has become one of the most popular. Connecticut has 618 miles of coastline; 5,828 miles of rivers; and more than 3,000 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. What it hasn’t had recently are enough kayaks to Aget everyone who wants to get on-board on the water. Roof racks make kayaking a moveable hobby, and made it particularly attractive the past year as a safe and fun solution to being together while keeping a safe distance.
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Kayaking on the Long Island Sound off Branford. The Sound offers a little more of a kayaking challenge, with more active water and numerous small islands to explore. Rule No. 1: Always wear a life vest.
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Owned and Operated by the Joseph Family | Location: The Shops at Farmington Valley, 110 Albany Turnpike 16 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 17 Glastonbury has a new business this season, begun by Bernice Mariqueo and her father Ricardo. AquaventuresCT is at South Glastonbury Seaboard Marina and rents kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and paddle boats on the Connecticut River. Get Out On the Water Mariqueo, who grew-up kayaking in To find some of the best places Connecticut, says, “It’s a fun outdoor activity that to kayak – as well as safety tips, really brings families together.” information on etiquette, and more – “We have a lot of reservations from big groups visit the Connecticut Department of getting together with friends families and kids.” Energy and Environmental Protection And a lot of gal pals. at portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Boating. With beginners, she says, “We give them a lesson how to paddle. No one has too much trouble learning for the first time.” Part of the attraction, she says, is that “anyone can learn how to do it; it’s something we can just do instead of go learn.” Chris Burke, who sells and rents kayaks at Indian River Marine and Kayak in Clinton, thinks renting is one of the best ways for anyone to get their feet wet. “It’s a wonderful way to get on the water,” Burke says, and those who take to the sport can spend as little as a few hundred dollars buying a used kayak. He sells mostly new kayaks ranging in prices of about $450 to over $3,000. “There’s no maintenance to kayaks, you don’t need a boat slip, you don’t need engines, you don’t need mechanics, you don’t need a lot of the things that are a hindrance to the average person to get on the water,” Burke says. Although Burke sells inflatable paddleboards, he has a warning about inflatable kayaks, which are not as rigid as paddlers might prefer on open water such as Long Island Sound. Users of inflatables, he says with a laugh, “get three workouts: one when Sue Warner, who has owned you bring and inflate it, one when you paddle, and Collinsville Canoe and Kayak with her husband Jon for 31 years. “With another when you try to get the air out of it.” the pandemic,” she says, “Kayaking is more popular than ever.” Cassandra Eilers of West Hartford at a Southington Paddle Sara Valleca of Roxbury, (on paddleboard,) leads a Southington Paddle Meetup Group event Meetup Group event at Crescent Lake in Southington. “I think it’s a combination of being “We had a tremendous interest all at Crescent Lake in JOINING THE Southington. a perfect thing to do and being able through the winter. All the people who BOATING BUNCH to socially distance. People also had a couldn’t get a boat during last season Unlike many outdoor sports, greater appreciation for the outdoors decided to get them for themselves recreational kayaking has a very small after being cooped up in their houses early. We’ve had two groups Burke’s partner, Sarah Thompson, has some advice as well learning curve as it doesn’t require and realizing any outdoor activity was from Michigan, one from Indiana. — size is important, and linked to where you intend to kayak. hours of lessons and practice to enjoy. a safe thing to do,” says Sue Warner, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, “If you’re on the ocean you want at least a 12-footer. If you’re And finding out if you like it is easy the owner of Collinsville Canoe and Virginia and all parts of New England. sticking to ponds or lakes a 10-footer is fine,” she says. and relatively inexpensive, with Kayak for the past 31 years. We’ve had people drive 35 hours round Kayaks have been around for well over 4,000 years. The New rental prices starting as low as $15 High demand meant a slow supply of trip to get a boat from us,” Warner World Encyclopedia says they were developed by indigenous an hour along the coastline — from kayaks, leaving outfitters scrambling to says. people primarily to hunt the rivers, lakes, and coastline of the Stamford to Mystic — and inland at help new enthusiasts. Warner only sells at the store or Arctic. They were made from animal skins stretched over frames places like Scoot and Paddle on Lake “We were able to get a decent delivers, and warns about having a usually made from whalebone (no trees in the Arctic). Housatonic in Derby, or The Happiest inventory but not nearly as much as kayak shipped. They’re just too easy to Contemporary kayaks haven’t strayed much from the original Paddler on Lake Pocotopaug in East we would have liked,” Warner says, damage along the way: “We’ve even designs, although they are no longer made from animal skins. Hampton. And there are new places adding that she remained busy even seen kayaks that have had forklifts go Fabric kayaks on wooden frames dominated the market up until taking advantage of the sport’s rise in through the off-season months. right through them.” the 1950s, when fiberglass boats were introduced. In 1973, popularity. rotomolded plastic kayaks first appeared. These boats, which are
18 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 19 Brothers Michael Martin (left) of Burlington and Nathan Martin of Bristol kayak the Farmington River after renting from Collinsville Canoe and Kayak.
20 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 21 Southington Paddle Kayak Meetup Group this past April (you can find it on meetup.com). She organizes group paddles for kayakers and paddleboarders, a few times a month on weekend mornings and weekday evenings. THE GOLD STANDARD IN One of her recent attendees was Cassandra Eilers of West Hartford. “I used to row crew so I was always on the MAGAZINE PUBLISHING water. I joined Meetup because I don’t have a favorite place to kayak, and this is nice because Seasons Media congratulates our contributors for recently you can find other people and connect,” Eilers winning the 2020 Excellence in Journalism awards from says. “I like the tranquility of kayaking alone, but I think the meetup group is great in terms of the Connecticut Society of Professional Journalists exploring new places. It’s nice to have a little bit of both.” Lisa Dostie Fitch, who has been renting kayaks Seasons Magazines contributors recently earned to boaters for a little over five years at Quinnipiac the following 2020 Excellence in Journalism awards: River Marina Kayak Rental in New Haven, favors Todd Fairchild: First Place, COVID-related photo Lisa Dostie Fitch, owner kayaking on the Quinnipiac River. It’s a dynamic of the Quinnipiac River area, where the fresh water of the river meets the Sean Wang: First Place, Editorial Cartoon Marina in New Haven, where she rents kayaks. salt water of Long Island Sound, she says. John Torsiello: First Place, Sports Feature “It’s a perfect nursery for oyster beds,” she says, “And it’s an historic area because the Quinnipiac Stan Godlewski: First Place, feature photo and smaller, stronger, more resilient, and less expensive than [Native Americans] used to summer there.” Second Place, feature photo those made of other materials, helped make kayaking the Kayakers can also beach their boats and walk the trails of the Matthew Dicks: First Place, Humorous Column accessible and popular activity it is today. Fargeorge Nature Preserve, home to osprey, clapper rails, herons, greater yellowlegs, and spotted sandpiper hawks, Tony Bacewicz: First Place, Photo Essay GETTING YOUR FEET WET turtles, and deer and many others. Cara McDonough: Second Place, Education For those just starting-out, some of the best ways to find “But you have to be aware of the currents and be aware Reporting new people and places for kayaking are meet-up groups of your surroundings,” says Dostie Fitch, who recommends online. kayaking about four hours after high tide, particularly for Stacy Murray: Second Place, Page Layout Sara Valleca of Roxbury loves the tranquility of kayaking beginners, to take advantage of the calmer water. Winter Caplanson: Second Place, Photo Essay and “being able to enjoy the outdoors and listen to the hum “You get to experience a different viewpoint of New of all the nature that surrounds you.” Haven,” she says. “I believe it’s the best part of New Cindy Simoneau: Third Place, Arts and Looking to find fellow paddlers, she started the Haven.” Entertainment Reporting
Connecticut Voice contributors recently earned the following 2020 Excellence in Journalism awards: Dawn Ennis: First Place, Video Storytelling and Second Place, Video Storytelling Jane Latus: First Place, Diversity Coverage Carol Latter: First Place, In-Depth Reporting Dawn Ennis: Third Place, Diversity Coverage John Torsiello: Third Place, Sports Feature
Michael and Nathan Martin on the Farmington River. Visit seasonsmagazines.com and ctvoice.com 22 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 23 ARTS & CULTURE
Hula Dancing in Connecticut A Polynesian Dance Studio Aims to Bring Deeper Meaning to Life
By ANNA ZUCKERMAN-VDOVENKO / Photos by EYE ON THE WORLD PHOTOGRAPHY
s residents of our New Englanders have found their great Through different artistic methods, beautiful state of escape from routine in the embrace of Polynesians tell of creation and Connecticut, we enjoy Polynesian dancing. history, and share reverence for their New England life community. It is important to keep mightily, but that doesn’t ISLAND STATE OF MIND in mind that the ancient Polynesians mean we don’t long for a break from Whether a novice dancer or a originally came to settle there from Athe mercurial weather and do-it-yourself professional, while engaging in thousands of miles over the seas, lifestyle that is part of our proud culture Polynesian dance, one is privy to certain using just the stars and the currents to here. thought processes born from life on navigate from other islands. They were In fact, during certain times of year, some of the most beautiful islands in brave, determined, proud people with we may often find ourselves fantasizing the world. Within the vast lasso among survival skills that allowed for voyages about warm weather destinations. Easter Island (native name: Rapa Nui), across vast tracts of wild ocean. The Suppress it as we may, who can resist New Zealand (Aotearoa), Marquesas dances born from these Indigenous the notion of an escape from all that leaf Islands, Tahiti, and Hawaii, Polynesians peoples reflect their ancestral vitality blowing, snow shovelling, and skidding have long sustained a breadth of and joy for life. The sheer mystical on ice? different cultures, languages, dances, beauty of their islands and the reverence Believe it or not, certain unique cosmologies, and ways of life. for their history has become infused
Some of the Kaiholunuie hula dancers in their formal Jasmin (Pikake) expresses and gracious Halau (studio) her love of hula in the dress. Tahitian dance.
24 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 25 Portrait of “Aunty” Kaye Colello as she watches her dancers perform.
within their dance. And the dance has migrated to the Nutmeg State, too. Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company, based in Wallingford, was founded in 2004 by Kekai (Kaye) Colello, the company’s artistic director, who has more than 45 years of Polynesian dance experience. An English teacher by day, Colello began to teach Polynesian dance out of her home as she completed graduate school, only wanting to pass on the traditions of her Hula lineage that had been bequeathed to her since childhood. The name Kaiholunuie came to Colello in a dream. The word “kai” – also embedded in her own given first name – means “ocean.” To her, it symbolizes the esteemed ocean adjacent to the land on which she played as a child. For Colello, the Pacific Ocean is a grand and mysterious place that ties the peoples of Oceania together. At Kaiholunuie, students learn Hula – an art form intrinsic to self-expression on the islands of Hawaii and a sacred, physical expression of Hawaiian history, genealogies, and stories that have both evolved and remained constant throughout time. It is a dance inextricably tied to the “Aloha,” a deep, emotional word that has no English equivalent, but rather encompasses an expanse of meanings surrounding love, compassion, humility, and life. It is a testament to Indigenous resiliency, tenacity, and strength. Colello and her fellow instructors also teach dances from throughout Polynesia, welcoming newcomers of all backgrounds to learn and participate. But the studio teaches more than dance, as students often engage in workshops where they learn the skills needed to assemble their own garments, create handmade Gabby Colello lets the spirit of the dance move her. leis used in costuming, craft Pasifika musical instruments, and engage in academic lessons on topics such as history. Why is this important? As New Englander Henry David Thoreau once said, “in wildness is the preservation of the world.” But it seems even more accurate to state: “In wildness and culture is the preservation of the world.” If we should lose such places and ancient customs that give life meaning, we stand on a tragic precipice where we no
26 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 27 proffering many Polynesian numbers determination to convert Indigenous American businessmen supported by the Even the Hawaiian language is to entertain their audiences, just as people to their way of thinking. At the U.S. military who happened to be there practiced at the Kaiholunuie studio. they might at a celebration on the Big time, they believed Hula was far too rife at the time. Subsequently, the rights of Colello’s outreach preserves what is Island. with alluring movements that horrified the local Hawaiian populace were taken precious, sharing the complexities of Colello says in the beginning, them and seemed despicable. Over the away. Hula lovingly with others, even those she had no plans to create a dance years following, Hula nearly died out as Liliu’okalani wrote famous anthems with no connection to Polynesian company. She simply wanted to a result. and songs that became a part of the ethnicity. bring people together and teach them But in time, Hula experienced lexicon used in ceremonies and in As Colello has often said: “There is a to dance. However, over the years, a revival and Hawaiian language modern Hula. This talented leader fine line between cultural appropriation through word of mouth and love of gradually resurfaced in education. was jailed in her own home and and cultural appreciation.” No one the dance, her classes grew into a Learning Hawaiian is popular at the subsequently tried in Honolulu for walks that line more gracefully than she thriving business. Her studio is now University of Hawaii and is now given treason against the new regime that does. home to a blossoming multicultural its due as a true reaffirmation of joy. had stolen her country from her. Perhaps best of all, Hula allows her group of adults, young people, and This cultural renaissance speaks truth to Washington, D.C. did nothing to students to feel empowerment through keiki (children) who join each other as the mind and heart. support the overthrown queen. The movements, centuries old. Undeniably, extended family to learn the different Many people don’t realize that Hawaiians were ill-treated and stripped there is a newfound, burgeoning forms of Polynesian dance. Hawaii was once a great Kingdom, of their lands. Ongoing work of awareness of how special and necessary Christi Colello She hopes her students will become united by brave chiefs who fought activists, educators, and scholars has are the customs of Indigenous peoples more globally aware of the many tooth and nail to unite the warring kept the last queen’s quest to recognize throughout the world. beautiful cultures, traditions, values, tribes that immigrated there on double- the monarchy alive. Kaiholunuie steadfastly maintains and belief systems that makes the hulled canoes from thousands of miles New England missionaries from the a commitment to authenticity as its world an invaluable classroom to away. Before the missionaries and early 19th century spawned their own instructors strive to be inclusive to all longer comprehend our meaningful tell a story of the song, a complex explore. colonization, Hawaiians were living in breed of cancel culture, putting the those who seek deeper knowledge of place in existence. So, it might not be language that becomes second nature to a paradise free of disease, with plentiful kibosh on all things Hula. So it seems Polynesian culture and share in Aloha. all that surprising that New Englanders those who study the art form. Gestures OVERCOMING HISTORICAL food and a proud artistic heritage. only fitting that here in Connecticut, the For more information about who can appreciate that sentiment may depict various subjects described STRUGGLES Hawaii’s last queen, Liliu’okalani, art of Hula is being practiced, preserved, classes or performance bookings, would embrace a Polynesian dance in a song: for example, movement It was the 19th century missionaries was overthrown by aggressive and given the respect it deserves. visit Kaiholunuie.com. company thousands of miles from of the ocean, swimming fish, falling from New England who were squarely Oceania. rain, emotions of love and attraction, responsible for putting a stop to this art colorful flowers, and beautiful birds. of dance, which shocked and offended “AUNTY KAYE” Tahitian dance for women is them. Colello, as lead instructor at notoriously fast and can be extremely Henry Opukaha’ia was a young Kaiholunuie, is respectfully known difficult to master. Simply put, merchant sailor from Hawaii who to all her students as “Aunty Kaye.” the women’s dances of Tahiti are landed in a missionary school based in She is a fount of knowledge pertaining an ebullient, joyful, jaw-dropping Cornwall, Connecticut. He converted to cultures that spawned a myriad of performance that can only be quantified to Christianity and told students of dance styles, each one significant to the as a highly respectable celebration of the faraway land where people lived islands from whence they come. culture. The lilting, lyrical Hawaiian so differently. Inspired by his faith, Her particular love of Hula since Hula is perhaps best known to those of he and others made plans to go on a youth always remained deep in her us on the mainland; it is an expression mission back to Hawaii in order to heart like an ember, reminding her of beauty in which every poetic convert his Hawaiian community, but of all the life lessons she had learned movement concurrently illustrates a he died in his mid-20s, before he could from her Kumu Hula (or master word, a thought, and a feeling. accomplish his goal. Hula teacher). Those lessons are You might ask, why would any Others from his coterie, who later grace, humbleness, light, and most New Englander want to participate in lived in Massachusetts, sailed to importantly, Aloha. Today, Hula is Polynesian dancing? What relevance Hawaii in his stead. Hundreds of once again central in her life, and could this form of dance possibly have whaling vessels based in Nantucket the joy of sharing it with others is to a Connecticut resident? and New Bedford, Massachusetts, also something she is so grateful for. Traditional dance is replete with made the long trip to Hawaii around Aunty Kaye imparts her own meaning and allows the participant Cape Horn into the Pacific annually. handcrafted, encyclopaedic information to focus on artistic movements that Sailors accidentally brought unfamiliar to her students, who hang upon every resonate within the body – gestures that diseases to Hawaii, tragically causing word she utters. She is such a talent have lasted for centuries. At Aunty some Indigenous populations to that often she brings her audiences to Kaye’s dance studio, the sacred magic plummet by nearly 90 percent. tears just from watching her expressive of Oceania is always waiting for her As the strict missionaries settled the Hula tells stories of history, “lovely Hula hands.” students – real and tangible. islands and began to colonize, they emotion and cultural pride. The dances of Polynesia are as Kaiholunuie dancers perform all over were determined to blot out certain various as the countless scores of New England – at festivals, schools, aspects of the culture that seemed islands themselves. Hand movements private parties and public events – at cross-purposes with their own
28 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 29 bamboo mazes Rocket Science #3, Airstream Interplanetary Explorer
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HOGPEN HILL FARMS, WOODBURY, CT GRAPHICS PRESS, CHESHIRE,CT WWW.TUFTE.COM INNOVATIONS IN HEALTH CARE
A New Era for Brain Care By ALIX BOYLE / Photography courtesy of UConn Health
hen Dr. John Greenfield joined in stroke care. That means that most patients who come in the UConn Health Department of with acute stroke get tPA (tissue plasminogen activator, the Neurology in 2016, the treatment clot-busting drug) within 60 minutes of arrival. Being fast is options for acute stroke were limited. important, since the longer you wait before treating a stroke, UConn could provide a clot-busting the more brain cells you are losing. Getting the award means drug to appropriate patients, but did that the system of stroke care works really well, since a lot not have treatments to offer if you arrived more than a few of things have to happen quickly. We’re also certified by hoursW after your stroke or had bleeding into the brain. Now, The Joint Commission (a patient safety organization) as a the UConn stroke team includes interventionalists who guide Primary Stroke Center, which means we meet their criteria catheter tubes into brain arteries to pull out blood clots, and for providing high-quality stroke care. We now have a great neurointensivists who manage severe brain hemorrhages. reputation, and the ambulance services and EMTs know that Patients can get state-of-the-art care right in their own patients will do best if they are treated at a hospital like ours, backyard. so the number of stroke patients we see goes up every year. Neurologists treat an enormous variety of diseases of the Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the country. We brain, nerves, and muscles. Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, see strokes in patients of all ages, but the norm is people in epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis their 50s through 80s and are all very different, and higher. We have given tPA each of these conditions is to people in their 90s, and A PHYSICIAN WITH 30 best managed by a neurologist they do quite well. YEARS EXPERIENCE: Dr. John Greenfield gives patients state- with advanced training in that of-the-art care and access to specific area. UConn Health has Q: WHAT HAPPENS the most advanced treatments developed programs directed WHEN A STROKE in neurology. Photo by Tina Encarnacion, UConn Health by subspecialty-trained experts PATIENT ARRIVES AT to treat all of these diseases and UCONN? more. A. First, patients have a CT “When I went into neurology scan to make sure there is 30 years ago, it had an no hemorrhage. We find out undeserved reputation as a field when the symptoms came STROKE CENTER: Dr. Sanjay where you could diagnose a on, and if there are any Mittal (left) is medical director of the UConn Health Stroke huge variety of diseases and contraindications, like if Center, and Jennifer Sposito Dr. John Greenfield (right), chair of the UConn Health Department not treat any of them,” said (right) is its clinical program of Neurology, consults with Dr. Jaime Imitola, medical director of the patient has had surgery coordinator. Greenfield, who is an expert in UConn Health’s Multiple Sclerosis Center. Photo by Tina Encarnacion, recently or is on a blood- UConn Health epilepsy and chair of neurology thinning drug. The tPA is (Note, this photo was taken at UConn Health. “The tag line an enzyme that basically before universal masking in was ‘diagnose and adios.’ Now, we have effective treatments chews up blood clots. If you don’t give it early enough, health care settings). for almost all of these conditions. It’s an exciting time the part of the brain affected by the clot can’t be saved, and Photo by Kristin Wallace, to be a neurologist, with the tremendous advances in our there’s also a risk that tPA can cause a hemorrhage. We UConn Health understanding of the brain and its diseases. We have so many have a window of 4½ hours from when the patient was last more treatments than we had 20 or 30 years ago.” seen well. We get a CT angiogram to image the arteries in Greenfield outlined the growth of neurology services at the neck and brain to see if there is a clot blocking the flow. UConn Health in a recent interview. There is also CT perfusion scan that looks at blood flow to the brain. Dye is injected into the blood stream to image the Q. CAN YOU SAY MORE ABOUT blood vessels and how quickly blood gets into the brain. We THE STROKE PROGRAM? use an artificial intelligence software called RAPID/AI that A. It started in 2013 after we recruited Dr. Sanjay Mittal can help us interpret the blood flow in the brain to see if the from Geisinger. He had built the stroke program there and patient is a candidate for intervention. The software analyzes knew how to bring together the people and resources at the flow and color-codes how long it takes the blood to get UConn to make it work like a well-oiled machine. We have there. Green is the savable area that gets blood late but is still improved over the years how quickly patients get access to alive, and red is the dead area where there is no blood flow, clot-busting drugs. This year, we received the American Heart that won’t survive. If the green area that shows brain that can Association’s “Get with the Guidelines” award for excellence be saved is big enough, and there is a clot that is reachable
32 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 33 with a catheter tube, we call the thrombectomy team to He recently received the 2020 Inspiration Award from the remove the clot. Thrombectomy is effective in saving the National MS Society. We also have an amazing nurse brain as long as 24 hours after the onset of a stroke, so even practitioner for MS, Marina Creed. She received the 2021 patients who arrive too late for tPA may still be able to get UConn Nightingale Award for excellence in nursing. thrombectomy. We’ve seen some pretty dramatic results. Patients who had a clot in a brain area that commonly Q. MOVEMENT DISORDERS ARE ANOTHER PERSONALIZED CARE causes severe paralysis or death have walked out of the MAJOR AREA OF NEUROLOGY. ANY NEW hospital. DEVELOPMENTS HERE? A. Movement disorders are conditions where people either Q: WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? have too much movement, like tremors, tics, or chorea A. Once the patient gets the tPA or thrombectomy, they’re (quick random movements) or too little movement, like FOR BRAIN, NERVE, watched closely in the intensive care unit to be sure they dystonia, where certain muscles become stiff. One of the don’t have a hemorrhage as a result. After 24 hours, they most common movement disorders is Parkinson’s disease, go to an intermediate care unit. We do an intense workup where people have slowed movement, tremors, stiffness, to figure out why the stroke happened so we can prevent and balance problems. More than half the patients in our AND MUSCLE DISEASES. another stroke from happening in the future. Everybody Movement Disorders Program have Parkinson’s disease. gets a brain MRI to show exactly what part of the brain was Since it affects a lot of the activities of daily living, it can be damaged by the stroke. a big challenge for patients and their families to deal with. Neurological disorders can wreak havoc on the body, affecting We help patients manage the known risk factors like high We have a new program for this called Supportive Care cholesterol and smoking. We start them on a medication to and Planning, which is spearheaded by the Director of the movement, balance, vision, speech, memory, and more. The neurology prevent new strokes from happening, either low-dose aspirin Movement Disorders program, Dr. Bernardo Rodrigues, and team at UConn Health provides care for disorders of the brain, spinal or another platelet inhibitor or a blood thinner. People with an advanced practice nurse, Elaine Cournean. This program cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles in a supportive patient- and AFib (atrial fibrillation) are prone to forming clots in the helps patients and their families meet the challenges of the heart and do much better on anti-coagulation. We do an disease so they can achieve their best quality of life. family-centered environment. Our physicians offer highly individualized echocardiogram to be sure there is no blood clot in the heart. care every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment and aftercare. Sometimes we send patients home with a loop monitor to Q: I HEARD THAT UCONN IS DEVELOPING record the heart rhythm for up to a month. The longer you A PROGRAM FOR NORMAL PRESSURE In addition to general neurology, we provide expert specialty care for monitor the heart rhythm, the more often you pick up AFib. HYDROCEPHALUS. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THAT? Parkinson’s, MS, stroke, epilepsy, and neuromuscular disorders, using the Q: ARE THERE ANY NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE A. Some of the patients referred to our Movement Disorders latest research to provide patients with cutting-edge treatment options. TREATMENT OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS? Center for symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease don’t actually A. MS is a less common disease, but it has a huge effect have Parkinson’s. When we look at their brain MRI, the on patients’ lives since it often strikes when they are young cerebral ventricles (fluid-filled cavities in their brains) are adults. It’s an autoimmune disease, which means the enlarged. This suggests a condition called normal pressure patient’s own immune system is attacking the nerve fibers hydrocephalus or NPH. The fluid is not being reabsorbed in the brain. The attacks can cause loss of vision in one eye, normally and causes pressure on the brain that can cause or double vision, or weakness or numbness in the arms or difficulty in walking, slowed thinking, and bladder legs. The symptoms usually get better after a few weeks, at incontinence. NPH can be treated surgically by inserting least early on, but later the symptoms persist and the patient a tube into the lateral ventricle that drains the excess fluid gets progressively worse. If you look at brain MRI images, continually into the abdomen where it can be reabsorbed. you can see little plaques in the white matter of the brain. That’s called a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. Removing MS attacks the myelin coating of the nerve fibers and slows the fluid can quickly reverse the symptoms in appropriate down neurotransmission. In the early stages, the attacks are patients. But before sending the patient to the neurosurgeon, limited. As the disease progresses, you lose different areas we need to identify who is going to get better. As a test, of function. There can be weakness, spasticity, or inability to we do a lumbar puncture, take out a fairly large volume of walk. When I was doing my neurology residency training in fluid and determine whether they are better in thinking and the early 1990s, nothing was available to treat MS. walking after the spinal tap. We are starting a new program Now, there are a lot of drugs that actually prevent MS to do this assessment, led by Dr. Neha Prakash. She attacks. One of the newest is ocrelizumab, an antibody coordinates a multidisciplinary evaluation over a single day. treatment given as an infusion every six months. It costs She has recruited neuropsychologists and physical therapists about $65,000 a year, and fortunately, is covered by most to test these patients before and after the spinal tap, so she health insurance including Medicaid. can make the best prediction of who is going to get better. It’s a great example of how we can pull together all of the Q: AND YOU HAVE SPECIALISTS WHO TREAT MS? expertise available at UConn to provide the best care for TO LEARN MORE OR REQUEST AN A. We have a great MS program led by a physician-scientist, our patients. APPOINTMENT, CALL 860-679-4888 OR Dr. Jaime Imitola. He is doing basic science research into the causes of MS by studying stem cells in the spinal Alix Boyle’s work has appeared in a variety of publications, VISIT HEALTH.UCONN.EDU/NEUROLOGY. fluid of MS patients. Dr. Imitola is involved in patient including The New York Times and Bloomberg News. She advocacy and the National MS Society. He helped create lives on the Connecticut shoreline with her husband, Josh, the guidelines for COVID vaccination for MS patients. and Helen of Troy, a pug who rules their home.
34 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 SPORTS From the kids soccer camp she runs every summer in Wilton, The Kristine Lilly Soccer Academy; to the TeamFirst Soccer Academy, where she coaches kids along with her former teammates, Mia Hamm and Tisha Venturini Hoch; to her book, Powerhouse, which inspires businesses and organizations to operate as a team, she teaches and helps others both on and off the field. She’s left a lasting legacy that will continue to empower and inspire people of all ages to work hard, keep pushing forward, and to follow their dreams – no matter how small their hometown might be on the map.
Q: What was it like growing up in Wilton, and how did you get started with soccer? A: I wouldn’t trade where I grew up, and all of growing up in Wilton was incredible. I moved there when I was in kindergarten. So I’ve been through all the school systems, played on all the sports fields, and trained in every part of the town, I bet. It was a great place to grow up, and our family was really sports-oriented. We played all different sports growing up, and Wilton parks and recreation provided all that. As I grew up, I wanted to be more and more like my big brother, and that’s how I got into soccer. Before I knew it, I started to excel in the sport, and then in my junior year of high school, I made the U.S. national team, which was kind of a big deal!
Even though she has retired from soccer, Kristine Lilly’ s love of the game remains strong, as she continues to coach, teach and inspire. All photos courtesy of Kristine Lilly. Still in the Game Kristine Lilly Remains Passionate About Soccer, Her Hometown Community, and Equality
By MARY HAWKINS
n the small town of Wilton, there’s a sign that marks the town line that reads, “Welcome to Wilton, Hometown of Olympic Gold Medalist Kristine Lilly.” Wilton High School students also enjoy playing sports on the Kristine Lilly field. It’s safe to say that Wilton is more than proud of one of its most well-known residents. Lilly has quite the accomplished athletic career, and she’s left her mark on her hometown in more ways than one. She kicked her first ball through Wilton’s youth sports programs when she Iwas in elementary school, something she tried because she wanted to be more like her big brother. As it turns out, she was a natural at soccer, and – how’s that old saying go? – the rest is history. After making the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team at the age of 16, she played with them for 23 years. She was part of five FIFA World Cups and three Olympic games, and she also helped lead the women’s soccer team at The University of North Carolina to four national championships. Even though she retired from professional soccer in 2010, Lilly shows no signs of slowing down. Teamwork has played a key role in Lilly’s career, and is something she instills in young players today.
36 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 37 because I found women just like me. I going through bone marrow transplants the night had such a small-town feel, think a lot of kids are always searching and empowers young girls to be better. which I love. I just love coming back for familiarity, and I’m so glad I found I’ve also always been busy with to Connecticut, specifically, Wilton. it and had such a great experience. Children’s Hospital in Boston doing It brings such a good feeling to me. Another highlight for me was different fundraisers for them. I ran the I think when people are looking for winning the 1999 World Cup in [Boston] Marathon in 2012 for them places to live, you always want to find the United States, which changed and raised around $21,000. a place that feels good and connected, minds and views about the game and There are other charities in and Connecticut was always a state companies investing in women players. Connecticut I’ve worked with as well, that did that. To this day, I still have like Special Olympics Connecticut the same two best friends from high Q: Do you still play soccer now? and also Kick for Nick, which is out school, and I think that’s really special. A: I retired in 2010, but now I coach of Wilton. Nick was a Wilton High kids, and I try to kick the ball around School student, and he went to war in Q: Can you tell us about your here and there. I do another camp with Afghanistan and lost his life, so Kick book? Mia Hamm and Tisha Venturini, who for Nick was started. I have a little A: Two years ago, I wrote a co- are former teammates on the national raffle at my camp that we raise money authored book called Powerhouse with team. We run a camp called TeamFirst for each year, and I give money to that two friends that I met when we lived Soccer Academy. We travel around the charity and also give soccer balls to his in Austin, Texas, John and Lynette Teaching kids is a passion of Lilly’s, whether its at the soccer camp she runs every summer in mom and dad, who run it. I really try to run better and be better. Wilton or as a coach of the TeamFirst Soccer Academy. country teaching, and we’ll play some Gillis. It’s a book about teamwork, It focuses on the things that worked pickup games together. help charities that are small and don’t and it’s based on the success of our have a voice like the larger ones do. for us as a team. I think a lot of times, U.S. Women’s National Team. It has sports can transfer over to businesses Q: What was it like being part p.m. It’s for ages 7 to 13, and it’s Q: Can you talk a little about 13 chapters since my team number and organizations if they run similar to of the U.S. National Team while almost sold out! Q: What is one of your favorite your advocacy work around was 13. It talks about communication, how sports teams do. going through high school at Connecticut memories? equal pay? leadership, setting goals, and doing Q: What are some of your the same time? A: I think we’re in a state of our A: I loved growing up in Connecticut. what’s right. Each chapter is an For more information about Lilly’s A: At first, I had no idea what it was biggest career highlights, from country where we need to be doing I think one of my favorite memories interview with one of my former camps, book and other endeavors, visit all about, and then my life changed the Olympics to the World Cup? what’s right. For so long, women is having the Fourth of July in Wilton. teammates, and it’s basically set to help kristinelilly13.com. forever after joining the team. It was A: I was on the national team for weren’t treated right, and now we’re We always had these fireworks, and organizations, teams, and businesses an amazing ride, and so much fun 23 years, and I was able to play five starting to see that change. to be a part of all that growing up. World Cups and three Olympic Games. The women are fighting for more Back then, the team wasn’t as busy I was part of the first World Cup in as we keep growing. A lot of the time as they are now, but I took two trips 1991 and part of the first Olympics in the pay becomes the main focus. But in high school. My junior year, I 1996. Like I said, the national team what people don’t realize is, it’s the remember going to Taiwan and China. was so new when I made it. People field stuff, the travel, the food, etc. Broadway is Back at the Shubert! I remember not wanting to go, believe didn’t even know who we were, and I If the men are getting a filet mignon it or not, because I didn’t want to miss actually have a story about that. and we’re being given something else, out on anything back home. But my I remember getting on a plane, but that’s just not right. THE 2021–2022 BROADWAY SERIES friends said, “What? You’re going to the team wasn’t traveling together. I So those are the kind of elements China?! Go!” had a USA team sweatshirt on, and that I talk about and that I believe in. I remember bringing my schoolwork someone asked me, “Would you play When I’m dealing with youth sports with me on the trip and teachers for them?” People didn’t realize that and high school sports and seeing girls working with me. It was a new we had a women’s national team that not getting the primetime practice experience for everybody, and the was playing. And now, in current time, that’s part of it as well. There are national team was just two years old times, I’d never have to explain it to certain things happening where girls at that point. I had such great support anyone. don’t feel respected, and they don’t from my family, friends, and the town. It was so much fun to grow the game feel they’re worth something. If you It’s great going back there now to visit. in the States by being part of this team show more respect and worth for boys’ Everyone there has really supported and playing with these women that teams than girls’ teams, that changes me, and I go back every summer to run were so much like me. When I grew up the dynamic a bit more. I think what my soccer camp. in Wilton, there weren’t a lot of girls’ we really fight for as women is just to March May June sports. So I played with the boys most be respected. October January 4–6, 2022 19–21, 2022 24–26, 2022 Q: Can you tell us more about of the time, and my brother. When I 22–24, 2021 21–23, 2022 your summer soccer camp, the joined the national team, I met these Q: Can you tell a little bit about Kristine Lilly Soccer Academy? women and thought, “Oh, my gosh, the various charities you work A: I’ve been running my camp since you’re like me! You want to compete. with? We can’t wait to welcome you back! 1995. We’re so happy to be back this You want to work hard. You want to A: I work with Mia Hamm through her For Broadway Subscriptions and Show Details, year, after missing last year because of laugh, you want to cry, and maybe charity, the Mia Hamm Foundation, COVID. The camp will run July 12th even swear a couple of times!” which we support through our Team visit shubert.com to the 15th from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 It just really changed my life just First Soccer Academy. It helps families
38 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 39 LAWNLAWN CIRCLES CIRCLES ON ON SALESALE JUNE JUNE 14 14 hartfordsymphony.orghartfordsymphony.org JULYJULY 2, 2, 2021 2021 • • 7:30 7:30 PM PM
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DISCODISCO INFERNO! INFERNO! SUPERSUPER DIAMOND DIAMOND PERFORMING PERFORMING FEATURINGFEATURING CLASSICAL CLASSICAL NIGHT NIGHT FEVER FEVER THETHE MUSIC MUSIC OF OF NEIL NEIL DIAMOND DIAMOND SEASONED ConductedConducted by by Adam Adam Boyles Boyles • •Rain Rain or or Shine! Shine! ConductedConducted by by Adam Adam Boyles Boyles • •Rain Rain Date: Date: July July 31, 31, 2021 2021 It’s what’s cooking now!
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G rill and
Turning Up the Heat on Salads Can ElevateChill a Casual Meal By AMY S. WHITE / Photography by MARY QUINN
t’s summer, and I wonder…is there core so things don’t fall apart on the grill. anything that tastes better in summer Here I offer a few starter recipes for grilled than food that’s cooked on the grill? salads, but really, think of them as mere The clear answer is “Nope.” suggestions. In the first recipe, grilling a head of This year, I encourage you to elevate romaine lettuce modernizes the classic Caesar your favorite summer meal by using salad. A bonus recipe shows how to make your your favorite summer cooking method own garlic croutons, also using the grill. In the and try grilling a salad. If you’ve never second recipe, the inherent bitterness of radicchio tried to grill a salad before, I get it. Lettuce seems is effortlessly tamed by a few minutes on the a little too delicate to survive the heat of a grill, grill, while creamy goat cheese, sugary glazed right? Salads are meant to be served cold, right? walnuts, and acidic balsamic vinegar merge with RepeatI after me as I say again: “Nope.” it to form a sweet and colorful accompaniment to The truth is that grilling transforms something any barbecue. Finally, the grill adds smoky, savory as mundanely familiar as, sweetness to a simple fruit well, lettuce, into something salad by caramelizing the uncommonly delicious. Warm natural sugars in the fruit. but still crisp, with charred As with all salads, you ruffled edges, the tender can keep it simple with crunchy leaves take on a store-bought additions, or smoky flavor that serves as you can challenge your the perfect palette to all of your summer salad fantasies. culinary self by making The simple act of grilling your own. Buy a bag of creates that elusive thing croutons, or make your we all want in a salad – an own with some stale bread. amazing contrast of flavor Shave parmesan cheese off and texture. a wedge using a vegetable I tend to believe that there are no real rules in peeler, or grab a container of some that’s already cooking. That said, there are a couple of things to thinly sliced. Purchase bottled salad dressing or keep in mind when grilling greens, or really, any try your own creation. Let your mood, your time fruits or vegetables. Make sure your grill grates constraints, and the contents of your fridge be Charred lettuce right of the grill will take your salad to the next level. are very clean, and brush them lightly with a little your guide. But most of all, keep calm and grill olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill at medium-high on, all summer long. heat to create those pretty grill marks and infuse that smoky grill taste. And when cutting a head Amy S. White is a Connecticut teacher, writer, and of lettuce, try to keep the leaves connected to the line cook.
42 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 43 GRILLED RADICCHIO SALAD WITH GOAT GRILLED CAESAR SALAD CHEESE AND GLAZED WALNUTS
Ingredients: Ingredients: 1 head of romaine lettuce, cut in 1 head of radicchio, cut into quarters half lengthwise, core intact 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more to 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more to brush the grill with brush the grill with 2 ounces goat cheese ¼ cup shaved Parmigiano- ¼ cup glazed walnuts Reggiano cheese (tip: use a 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley vegetable peeler to shave thin Kosher salt, to taste slices easily) Balsamic vinegar, to taste Your favorite croutons, to taste (Have stale bread? See recipe below to make your own!) Directions: Your favorite Caesar salad dressing, Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush grates to taste with a little olive oil. Rinse the radicchio quarters and pat Freshly ground black pepper, to them dry. Brush each quarter on the cut sides with olive taste oil and place them cut-side down on the grill. Close the ½ lemon grill and grill the radicchio for about five minutes, then flip to the other cut side and continue to grill until nicely Directions: marked with grill marks. Assemble the salad by topping the grilled radicchio with goat cheese, glazed walnuts, Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush chopped parsley, kosher salt, and balsamic vinegar. grates with a little olive oil. Rinse the romaine halves and pat them dry. Brush each half on the cut side with olive oil and place them cut-side down on the grill. Close the grill and grill the lettuce for about five minutes (do not flip), until nicely marked with grill marks. Assemble the salad by topping the grilled romaine with cheese, croutons, Caesar salad dressing, and black pepper, all to taste, and then finish by squeezing a little lemon juice on top. GRILLED FRUIT SALAD WITH HONEY-LIME DRESSING
Ingredients: 1 watermelon, cut into slices 1 pineapple, cut into spears 1 pint strawberries, halved and DIY GARLIC CROUTONS placed on a skewer Ingredients: 1 cup honey-flavored yogurt Juice of 2 limes 4 tablespoons olive oil 2 cloves garlic, peeled and cut in half Half loaf stale bread Directions: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush Directions: grates with a little olive oil. Place watermelon slices, pineapple spears, and strawberry skewers Heat the olive oil in a pan and add the garlic. Cook on the grill. Grill until fruit is nicely marked with for a minute or two over medium heat to infuse the grill marks on one side, then flip and do the oil with the garlic, then remove the pan from the heat same to the other side. Cut the watermelon and It may seem and discard the garlic. Brush the bread slices with the pineapple into bite-sized pieces and gently toss counterintuitive to grill a garlic oil, then place them on a preheated grill. Grill together with the strawberries. Mix the lime salad – but you'll be glad about two minutes each side, until nicely marked juice into the honey-flavored yogurt and drizzle OPEN SESAME!you tried Your it. taste with grill marks. Cut into crouton-sized bites. over the fruit. buds will have you clamoring to dive into these chill, state- of-the-plate snacks.
44 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 45 PERFECT PAIRINGS BY MARY QUINN angria is the perfect excuse to clean out your A classic red sangria is your first step to delight. Use a fridge of all your fruit and juice! Sangria is best sweet, red wine for your batch. Paired with juicy citrus and during the summer because it is so refreshing. a touch of spice, you’ll find this classic recipe hits the spot When you use citrus that is in season, how could it every time. be wrong? If you are looking for something different, go with our These two recipes are here for your summer needs. Whether Island Sangria. Choose a bright, juicy white wine for this youS are impressing a guest on your new patio, or in charge of recipe. Paired with your favorite melon and pineapple, this PRESENTS punch during your special event, wine always has your back. sangria is a tease toward the beach. Cheers! Conversations With Dennis House CLASSIC RED SANGRIA A SEASONS MEDIA PODCAST Ingredients:
1 bottle of juicy red wine, such as zinfandel, Seasons Media is proud to announce that pinot noir, or merlot Dennis House will be hosting a monthly 1 cup of orange Juice podcast called “Conversations With ... Juice of 1 large lemon Dennis House.” Aired in conjunction with 5 oz. triple sec/orange curacao 3 oz. brandy Seasons Media, the podcasts will be monthly 12 oz. ginger ale and distributed on all podcast platforms, 1 cinnamon stick including iTunes, Google, Amazon’s TuneIn, Sliced Apples, Oranges, Limes, Lemons, Spotify, iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, Apple, Strawberries Stitcher, etc. In addition, each podcast will be This recipe is best when left overnight to saturate fruit, but videotaped and shared. can also be enjoyed right away. Makes a large pitcher to share with friends; just add ice. Dennis and Seasons Media believe strongly in the positivity of the people and state of Connecticut. And that is exactly what Dennis’ conversations will be about. He will focus on the people, places and companies that are impactful throughout the state ... some ISLAND SANGRIA that our audience may have heard of and Ingredients: some they have not. His conversations will be 1 bottle of sweet white wine, like pinot interesting, insightful and entertaining. grigio, moscato, or sauvignon blanc ½ cup orange juice ½ cup pineapple juice Join Dennis in July when his guests will Juice of 1 large lemon include Connecticut’s own Kristine Lilly, 5 oz. triple sec/orange curacao known for her role on the United States 3 oz. Raspberry Vodka Women’s National Soccer team and the 12 oz. Sprite Fruit: Watermelon, Pineapple, Lemons, legendary team in 1999 that changed Oranges, Strawberries everything for women’s soccer in the US.
This recipe is best if left overnight to saturate fruit, but For more information contact: can also be enjoyed right away. Makes a large pitcher to Jim Tully share with friends; just add ice. [email protected] 860-729-2938
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Destination: Connecticut State Sees a Surge in Second-Home Buyers
By MAKAYLA SILVA
Waterfront homes in Rowayton.
50 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 51 f the 2021 city on standby for the occasional office home buying meeting. market were a Two years ago, a secondary residence card game, the in Connecticut or the Hamptons likely deck would be would have been purchased to be used stacked with as a weekend getaway. An easy, close- wildcards. Talk to-home retreat just far enough away to any Con- from the hustle and bustle of daily life necticut real in the city. But now, the second-home estate agent about the current market buying trend has flip-flopped and led to and they’ll likely tell you it’s like the a phenomenon Jonathan Miller, a real Wild West out there. The pandemic has estate appraiser and consultant, calls caused seismic shifts in the market, “co-primary” homes. resulting in an influx of buyers and Previously, buyers were mostly slim-to-no inventory. looking at second homes as an invest- Over the last year, 74 percent of mort- Overnight, Connecticut has become a she says. “People are just looking to says. “We’re seeing every single home For many apartment dwellers, pur- ment. Now more than ever, people are gages taken in Connecticut were second destination.” move to towns and cities for the slice sell. Even those million dollars plus chasing a second home has become purchasing second homes that they can home purchases according to Berkshire of suburbia.” listings are flying off the market.” pretty appealing over the last year. utilize immediately, and not just as an Hathaway CEO Candace Adams says. SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT Skyrocketing demand coupled with By the final quarter of 2020, the Spending more time than ever at home, investment or for a vacation. “We do know that if you look at the IS A HOT SPOT lagging inventory and never-before- national median home price rose to buyers have reprioritized the features In its assessment of the pre-pandemic postal movement out of New York Fairfield County is the number one seen bidding wars, has resulted in $346,800, up from $327,400 one year they value in their residence. The over- real estate market in Connecticut, Wall- City, with 110,000 people migrating destination for those relocating out of the prices of homes headed for the prior, leaving many buyers on the side- whelming consensus? They want space. ingford-based Berkshire Hathaway Ho- all over the place out of the city, many the city, followed by Litchfield County stratosphere. lines. The competition is real. This sudden interest in the spacious meServices New England Properties has are landing here in Connecticut,” says and then the Connecticut shoreline, “Last year at this time, people In an attempt to make an offer seem suburbs has prompted a migration out seen a luxury home sales boom along Adams. “Which is interesting because says Adams. stopped putting their homes on the more appealing to the seller, many of the cities and into, well, Connecticut. the Shore Line East region to New York pre-pandemic, Connecticut had more “People are wanting to flee densely market. Now, 20 to 30 offers on a buyers are taking away contingencies And with the shift to remote work- City, Westchester and Fairfield County, of an exodus, with people moving populated urban areas, even into con- single property are not unusual. An av- like the home appraisal or inspection spaces, many New Yorkers have chosen with sales up by double digits on the south or downsizing and buying second dos. The condominium market is up 90 erage property that goes on the market in an increasingly competitive market. to relocate to the suburbs while still eve of the coronavirus outbreak in many homes on the Connecticut coastline to percent—and condos are necessarily sees 50 to 70 showings each day, show- Plus, with the largest generation of keeping their primary residence in the of those communities. travel back and forth from Florida to. located in sparsely populated areas,” ing in 15-minute increments,” Adams Millennials entering the home buying
52 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 53 market, it’s hard to adequately meet the the trigger. second-home-owner? the calendar year, it is then considered demand. But be prepared that many popular Rachel Alexander, senior loan advi- a rental or investment property by the Dawn Gagliardi of the Corrado CONNECTICUT IS A NEW vacation spots are no exception to the sor at Flagstar Bank in Rocky Hill says Internal Revenue Service. Any real Group serving the West Hartford, ENGLAND TOURIST trend of slim-to-no inventory and pent- the pandemic has actually tipped the estate used to make a profit, rather than Farmington Valley, and Tolland DESTINATION FOR up buyer demand. scales in favor of buyers actually mak- serve as a primary residence, is consid- County markets, says the pandemic has MILLIONS OF VISITORS Buyers are snapping up second ing a purchase. ered an investment property. changed the way the people think about EACH YEAR. NOW, MANY homes, especially oceanfront properties a secondary residence. More people ARE EXTENDING THEIR and anything with swimming pools, have lengthened the tether connect- WEEKEND DRIVE TO A says Rose Ciardiello, a William Raveis ANY REAL ESTATE USED TO MAKE A ing work and home as workspaces as MORE SEMI-PERMANENT agent serving the Connecticut shore- PROFIT, RATHER THAN SERVE AS A companies have become flexible and VACATION LOCALE OF line. PRIMARY RESIDENCE, IS CONSIDERED embraced remote working, leading to CHOICE. “Anything with a pool is gold,” she an incredible influx of buyers to Con- says. “And that’s getting harder and AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY. necticut, Gagliardi says. harder to find.” Formerly a New York City medical In many well-visited vacation towns, “Because the pandemic caused some Also, if buyers want to rent out your malpractice attorney, Gagliardi says move-in ready homes are flying off the economic downturn, mortgage rates second home, their lender will likely travel restrictions have all contributed out of it too,” Gagliardi says. the pandemic has certainly created a market in a matter of days (sometimes remained at historic lows, allowing for require them to perform an additional to the surge in second homes purchases With so many city dwellers in search more competitive market for the local hours. If employers extend work-from- new buyers who weren’t able to get appraisal, as well as produce a rent this last year, many of which will likely of a relatively easy drive to either a families she is working with. home policies and students kick off approved for much money to be able schedule. Taxes, insurance costs and become a primary home if the home- salty seaside like Madison or Mystic, Buyers are often coming from out of the school year with remote learning, to have a greater purchase power,” she projected profits from an investment owners continue to work remotely. or a leafy retreat like Kent or Litch- state, and they have money. It leads to increasing activity in the second-home says. property will all factor into the debt-to- Gagliardi says she has noticed an field, the state will likely continue to multiple offers on many homes, with market will likely continue well be- Typically, Alexander says, a second income ratio. On the bright side, buyers upward tick of buyers searching for see an influx in the years to follow of some buyers bidding over the asking yond the pandemic housing boom. home is simply an alternative term for can deduct certain expenses, including second homes in Connecticut, Maine, those from New York and other parts price and some waiving a building in- a vacation home. But, she says, if the advertising, property management fees, New Hampshire and Cape Cod for who want the weekend getaway. CAREFULLY CONSIDER THE spection to appeal to a seller,” she says. property is purchased with the inten- mortgage interest, repairs, maintenance these very reasons. From the sandy Old Saybrook OPTIONS tion of collecting additional income, and utilities. COMPETITION GROWS, “A lot of my clients decided to shoreline to the winding trails of Wad- A second home is still a house, and there are a few additional guidelines to While it can be a win-win move, INVENTORY DWINDLES purchase a second home at the beach or sworth Falls State Park in Middletown, houses require upkeep. Take into follow when purchasing. The type of particularly in an era of remote work, If you’re still in the game, you’re likely the mountains as a way for them to get Connecticut is a New England tourist account not only the price of regular property, such as whether it’s a single- prospective buyers should make sure to see only about half as many homes away with their families and feel safe,” destination for millions of visitors each maintenance, including yard work, but family or multiple-unit one, makes a to head into the decision with a healthy for sale as were available last winter, Gagliardi says. “Especially with people year. Now, many are extending their also monthly utilities like water, elec- difference. dose of reality. according to data from Altos Research, being able to work from home, relocat- weekend drive to a more semi-perma- tricity, and trash. For those thinking of renting out “This year we all assumed that a firm that tracks the market nation- ing to their vacation home, even for an nent vacation locale of choice. “Buying a vacation home or invest- their home: “The lender would require people would have been holed up in wide. Following many years of steady extended stay, became much more of a These days, the prospect of purchas- ment property is a great way to expand a bigger down payment and they would their homes, isolated. But it actually erosion, that’s still a record-shattering thing over this past year.” ing a vacation home could hardly be your real estate portfolio. If you’re go- require additional cash in the reserve resulted in people realizing that they decline in inventory. But purchasing a second home more alluring. Mortgage rates are at ing to buy a second home you should to cover the several months’ worth of needed more space,” says Alexander. From January of 2020 to January of comes with unique financial consider- historic lows. And after this last year, determine your needs, your budget, and mortgage payments to mitigate the po- “They had more time to consider their 2021, the demand for second homes ations. escaping to a crowd-free area is just then you can figure out exactly what tential risk there may be if the tenants long-time financial goals and it has far surpassed the demand for primary “Owning a second home can be an what the doctor ordered. If you’ve been you need to invest in it,” Ciardiello leave or can’t pay the rent,” Alexander resulted in a huge boom in our busi- homes at 84 percent — outpacing the investment, because you can rent it out dreaming of buying a cozy cabin in the says. says. ness. The market—for primary and 50 percent increase in demand for on Airbnb or VRBO to make a little woods, a coastal cottage on the shore So what are the steps you should For those who opt to rent out a vaca- secondary residences—has completely primary homes. money out of it. But you should make or some other sweet escape, there are take if you want to join the ranks of the tion home for 15 or more days out of changed.” Remote work, virtual learning and sure you’re going to actually get use some pretty compelling reasons to pull
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BROOKFIELD | FAIRFIELD | MANCHESTER | NEW HAVEN Since 1992, Forum-goers have heard more than 400 brilliant, funny, and provocative experts and celebrities give their take on a range of topics. From NEW LONDON | STAMFORD | WEST HARTFORD politics to food, technology to music, global affairs to social justice, and more. When you come to The CT Forum, you always leave with something to think about. Next up: An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma November 9, 2021 -- LIVE at The Bushnell Tickets at ctforum.org Try r Vuizer @TileAmerica.com SEASONS ad Gratitude.indd 1 5/28/2021 9:41:52 AM 56 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 57 HISTORY
Raising the Game Sammy Davis Jr. Took Connecticut’s Signature Golf Tournament to New Heights
By ANDREW KELSEY
olf is unlike Hartford Community Foundation Inc., partners with Hinckley Allen, serve on most other whose primary fundraising activity is the tournament’s board. Hinckley Allen sports, in which the Travelers tournament. Kleinman be- is the legal counsel of the tournament. fans cheer dur- came president of the Greater Hartford Kleinman recalls that the late Joe ing the competi- Jaycees in 1973, the first year Davis Jr. Dey, then the commissioner of the PGA tion. All is quiet became involved. Tour, called Marv Lapuk, a former on the course The Jaycees were the original chairman of the tournament and the when players group that, for decades, did a great deal Jaycees’ representative to the American tee off or at- of work to raise money for the tourna- Golf Sponsors Association, and got the tempt to sink a putt. It has been a sport ment, which had no title sponsor. The ball rolling to have a celebrity name predominately played by white athletes. Jaycees volunteered to organize and put associated with the tourney. But the success of Connecticut’s on the tourney, and their work and dedi- “We were always looking for ways to long-standing golf tournament — cation was essential to it taking place. expand the footprint of the tournament known now as the Travelers Champion- Kleinman and David DeBassio, both — to make it better,” Kleinman says. ship — came about in large part due Davis had ties to Hartford and to an African American entertainer: jumped to the opportunity to become Sammy Davis Jr. involved in the tournament. He repre- The Travelers Championship, set for sented the Highway Safety Foundation June 21-27 at TPC River Highlands in after having lost an eye in an accident, Cromwell, is again expected to wel- but also took pride in representing come some of the world’s top golfers African Americans and had a chance to while bringing in money for charity. become the first black person to have The tournament’s rise to prominence his name associated with a PGA Tour and high profile may be attributed in event, Kleinman says. large part to Davis, and his link to the The tournament, which originated tournament for many years throughout as the Insurance City Open in 1952, the 1970s and 80s. already had appeal; it was where Arnold Dan Kleinman, who has been in- Palmer won his first PGA event in the volved with the tournament for more United States in 1956. than 50 years, credits the involvement “He wanted to have his name on the of Davis with the growth, success and, tournament. I think it was important in part, the sustainment of the tourna- to him personally, and it represented Former President Gerald Ford on the golf ment. course with Sammy Davis Jr. something in this country,” Klein- Legendary singer Sammy Davis Jr. had a large and lasting impact on Photo by John Long and the Hartford Connecticut’s professional golf tournament. Photo by Stephen Dunn and the Kleinman is the chairman of the man said of Davis. “Sammy wanted to Courant. Copyright 2021. Hartford Courant. Hartford Courant. Copyright 2021. Hartford Courant. Used with Permission. board of directors for the Greater Used with Permission. encourage more black youth to pick up
58 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 59 Souvenirs from past tournaments housed at First Tee – Connecticut’s David & Geri Epstein Learning Center in Cromwell. One of Sammy Davis Jr.’s most lasting impacts on the event came when he invited his famous friends to come play a round of golf, thereby creating the tournament’s popular Celebrity Pro-Am.
Rod Funseth and Sammy Davis Jr. in 1978 at what was then the Greater Hartford Open. Photo by John Long and the Hartford Courant. Copyright 2021. Hartford Courant. Used with Permission.
the game.” “He was one of the great entertain- on board, and increased to $200,000 his Kleinman said because other celebri- ers of his generation … a great all- first year. In 1973, the winner’s share ties, including Davis’ friends, had their around performer,” Kleinman says. “He was $40,000. Today, the winner’s share names associated with tournaments, his could sing and he could dance and he is over $1.3 million and the total prize ego gave him the drive to have his name could act.” money is $7.4 million. on one as well. So how is it that Davis made such a The late Bob Saunders, former chair- BRINGING THE SPOTLIGHT huge impact on the once-modest golf man of the tournament, served as a TO CONNECTICUT tourney? He wanted to get stars for a liaison between the tournament and ce- The tournament gained national Celebrity Pro-Am, and so began a new lebrities. Kleinman and Lapuk worked television exposure soon after Davis Jr era. together, both as law partners and to came on board. Prior to his involvement “He wanted jumbos — really big make the golf tournament happen. it was only broadcast on WFSB out of names,” Kleinman says. “We never had Davis’ ties to Hartford dated back to Hartford. a Celebrity Pro-Am.” when he performed as a child with his “We were never on national TV Yogi Berra, Lawrence Taylor, Mi- father at the Grand Theatre in Hartford before,” says Kleinman, adding that chael Jordan, Julius “Dr. J” Erving, before becoming famous as part of the the revenue this newfound exposure Jackie Gleason, Mikey Rooney, Bob Rat Pack. “He knew Hartford because through TV produced elevated the tour- Hope and other world-famous people he performed in Hartford,” says Klein- ney to new heights. came to the tournament to help make an man, describing Davis’ connection with The tournament had a purse of event out of it. the city as a kinship of sorts. $125,000 the year before Davis came Davis put on a show each year, to
60 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 61 perform for sponsors and golfers and than $44 million for charity, with Hole golfing scene. He adds that after the per- their families, and caddies. The celebri- in the Wall Gang a main recipient, since former lifted the tournament to a high ties played and performed at the event its inception in 1952. level, Travelers saved it. as well. “No other sport does what the PGA The first year of the Travelers “No celebrity ever did [before] that Tour does,” Kleinman says, noting 100 Championship was one to remember as and he didn’t charge for anything,” says percent of proceeds go to charity. “It’s Hunter Mahan outlasted Jay William- Kleinman, adding Davis also forfeited a all because of Sammy Davis Jr. — his son in a playoff. There have been some week of paid performances in Las Vegas talent, his prestige.” thrilling championships; memorable to make this tournament special. “It was Known more for his song “The Candy Pro-Ams, which continue to be held; important to be in Hartford, for his im- age and for the black community. “It was the highlight of the week,” Kleinman says of the show he put on. “He elevated the stature of the tourna- ment to a much, much higher level than we ever had before.” Davis had a 16-year run with the tour- nament that ended in 1988 due to health issues, Kleinman says. As the years and decades went by, the tournament transitioned and gained more corporate sponsor- ship. From its inception in 1952, the tournament has had a connection with Travelers. It started out as the Insurance City Open because a consortium of in- surance companies sponsored the event; it held that name until 1967. There was a notable African Ameri- can tie to the tourney before Davis Jr. stepped (or maybe danced) in. Back in 1967, Charles Sifford won the cham- pionship, becoming the first African American golfer to win a PGA Tour event. That was the first year it was known as the Greater Hartford Open. In 1984, the tourney moved to its cur- Sammy Davis Jr with Hubert Green. Photo by John Long and the Hartford Courant. rent location, the TPC River Highlands. Copyright 2021. Hartford Courant. Used with Permission. Curtis Strange won the “Last Blast at Wethersfield,” the final year of the tour- ney at Wethersfield Country Club. Man” than sinking putts, you might and lots of fundraising along with all Named the Sammy Davis Jr. Hartford wonder about the golf-playing abilities of it throughout the years. It all started Open from 1973 until 1984, it became of Davis. with the Jaycees, and Travelers has been known as the Canon Sammy Davis Jr. He was not the best golfer in the a big — now essential — part of it. And Hartford Open in 1985 and, upon Davis world when he first came to Connecticut Davis played a large role too. Jr.’s tenure ending, was known only as for the tournament, Kleinman recalls. “If Sammy Davis Jr. hadn’t elevated the Canon Greater Hartford Open from He did, of course, have plenty of pizazz the stature of the tournament, we 1989 to 2003. In 2003, it was simply with a specially-outfitted golf court. “By wouldn’t have a tournament to- the Greater Hartford Open, but picked the end of his 16 years he became a day,” Kleinman says. “We wouldn’t be up the Buick Championship name from much better golfer,” Kleinman says. here today without the tradition Sammy 2004-06. It has been called the Travel- Kleinman believes that, without helped to create here in Hartford.” ers Championship since 2007. Davis’ impact on the tournament, things The tournament has generated more would be a lot different in Connecticut’s
62 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 63 ENTERTAINMENT
The Show Shakespeare’s most popular romantic comedic tales. The Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival runs Thursdays through Sundays for three weekends (July 29 – August 15), under the stars and on the lawn of the University Must Go On of Saint Joseph’s Autorino Center for the Arts, at 1678 After an Extended Intermission, Theaters Look Ahead Asylum Ave. in West Hartford. Audience members are encouraged bring blankets, lawn chairs, and dinners, and COVID-19 safety protocols will be in effect. Tickets and By PAUL WHITMAN information at HartfordShakespeare.org.
t’s time to rediscover the performing arts. get creative and adapt to the pandemic. They’re offering COLLEGE STREET MUSIC HALL Over the last year, life’s been very dull and their patrons virtual performances as well as some live Located in the center of downtown New Haven’s arts you’ve kept a low profile for too long. In recent entertainment with proper social distancing. and entertainment district, College Street Music Hall has months, out of desperation for some kind of Here’s a look at what’s happening in the arts scene become an important venue for live music performances stimulation, you’ve maybe even thought about throughout the state. Due to the shifting COVID guidelines, and stand–up comedy. While COVID restrictions have volunteering to go to the Department of Motor please check dates and times of all performances presented eased, protocols don’t make it practical to reopen just Vehicles for a friend! That’s sad indeed. here before making any plans. yet. However, upcoming shows this fall include comic Stop! Sit down. Relax. Now with loosening COVID Mike Birbiglia on Oct. 1. He is a regular contributor restrictions,I see what’s been going on with the performing THE BUSHNELL PERFORMING ARTS FORTUNEFORTUNEFORTUNEFORTUNEFORTUNE to This American Life and The Moth, and has also arts scene around the state. It’s been revamped, reimagined CENTER, HARTFORD released several albums and television shows. On Nov. and reinvented for enjoyable and safe entertainment. An architectural gem and one of the most important 4, stand-up comedian Fortune Feimster performs. FEIMSTER cultural institutions in the Hartford area, the Bushnell is FEIMSTERFEIMSTERFEIMSTERFEIMSTER The pandemic has been particularly trying for the theater Feimster, a lesbian, came into her own on Chelsea industry. Since March 2020, many theaters have had to looking forward to reopening later this fall. They’re kicking things off in October with Escape to Lately. After this show, the venue is planning regular Margaritaville, a musical based on the live performances well into 2022, including The Moth 11.4.2021 SATURDAY songs of Jimmy Buffet. It has been Mainstage on Sept 22, 2022. For more information, visit March 3 described by Newsday as “a delightful, collegestreetmusichall.com. energetic frothy drink of a show.” COLLEGESTREETMUSICHALL.COM Looking ahead, notable productions FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO include Hamilton which sold out its Last fall, for a second time, Foxwoods was named “the entire run the first time it played at best casino in the country” outside of Las Vegas. This GARDE ARTS CENTER the Bushnell in 2018. It returns for a title was bestowed on them by USA Today’s readers’ choice Built as a grand movie palace in the 1920s, the Garde had three-week run in June 2022. For more awards. So it’s no surprise that for entertainment, major a masterful reincarnation over 30 years ago. Today, it is information, visit bushnell.org. acts kick off the summer months, including internationally recognized not only for its innovative mix of programming recognized comedic legend Dave Chappelle. He will bring but its atmospheric Moroccan interiors. Hoping to open at CAPITAL CLASSICS THEATRE his sharp wit and irreverent social commentary to Foxwoods 100% capacity this fall, upcoming shows include Melissa COMPANY for five performances on June 24, 25 and 26. Funnyman Etheridge Sept. 5, The High Kings Oct. 9, Rosanne Cash Celebrating its 30th anniversary, and Tim Dillion will take center stage with his laugh-out-loud Nov. 5, Tusk and The Breakers Nov. 6 and Chazz Palminteri the return of outdoor theatre, Capital set on July 24. For more information, visit foxwoods.com/ in A Bronx Tale Nov. 12. For more information, visit Classics is staging As You Like It, one of entertainment. gardearts.org.
64 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 65 RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE This restored Cass Gilbert Jr.-designed theater in Ridgefield hosts local and national acts – from musicians to comedians to Broadway legends, speakers, dance, opera and more. It also features classic films on-site and live streaming events for viewing at home. As a finale to Pride Month, on June 30, The Playhouse presents the 25th anniversary of various locations in and around Hartford through the classic gay comedy The Birdcage, starring June 16. HSO’s Talcott Mountain Music Festival Nathan Lane, Robin Williams and Gene Hackman, (July 2-30) kicks off with Celebrate America on on the big screen. Later in the season, the gayest July 2 at Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts of gay performers, comedian and satirist Randy Center. It’s like Tanglewood in Connecticut. All Rainbow appears for two nights, October 27 and concerts will require masking and social distancing, 28. Enjoy, too, an evening of conversation with with limited capacities. For more information, visit cultural icon Fran Lebowitz on Nov. 7, David Sedaris hartfordsymphony.org. on Oct. 11 and much more. For more information, visit ridgefieldplayhouse.org. HARTFORD HEALTHCARE AMPHITHEATER STAMFORD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS/THE PALACE This is the new kid on the block this season. THEATRE Together with Live Nation Entertainment and the A center for music and theater for decades, City of Bridgeport, the HHC Amphitheater will be The Palace offers one of the broadest ranges of bringing exciting change for the neighborhood and entertainment in the state. Patrons enjoy performances the cultural scene in Fairfield County. Formerly a by well-known comedians, pop music stars as well as ballpark and now a state-of-the-art amphitheater, symphonic music and opera. Following all pandemic its first concerts are scheduled for June. Organizers protocols, The Palace is planning a return presenting plan to host more than 75 annual events, in spring shows in October. On Oct. 8, Stayin’ Alive brings through fall, under its immense tensile membrane the timeless classics of the Bee Gees. Rising star roof. At press time, a precise schedule of events had comedian Anthony Rodia is live Oct. 9, American not as yet been released. For more information, visit folk-rock icons The Indigo Girls return on Oct. hartfordhealthcareamp.com. 16 and family fun Cirque-tacular’s Spooktacular entertains Oct. 29. The Palace’s season schedule of GOODSPEED MUSICALS live performances continues through the holidays WESTPORT COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE Known for its classic Broadway productions and other plays and well into 2022. For more information, visit A local tradition since 1931, the Playhouse is a national on its main stage in East Haddam, the theater was originally palacestamford.org. theatrical institution. Responding to the pandemic, they have a charming opera house in a wedding-cake design. reinvented theater for a virtual world. For the 2021 season, all Goodspeed also runs the smaller Norma Terris Theatre in THEATERWORKS HARTFORD Playhouse experiences will be presented online, with single nearby Chester, featuring new musicals and actors. Due to A small, intimate venue in downtown Hartford, tickets and packages available. New productions include Tiny COVID concerns, South Pacific has been rescheduled from TheaterWorks is known for producing important House and Doubt: A Parable. Add-on events including LGBT this June to September 2021, and Anne of Green Gables to contemporary works in New England. Now in Night Out. From the archives, Man of La Mancha and a next year. its 35th season, it offers annual memberships, second to-be-determined gem will be presented. The Script While productions have been delayed indoors, there will monthly memberships and single ticket sales. New in Hand play-reading series continues. And free for the be summer outdoor entertainment again this year, on the shows stream online monthly and will continue community: New Works/New Voices, Concept to Curtain, lawn at the Opera House. An exact program has not been until it’s safe to return to live performances. On- and Playhouse Radio Theater with WSHU. The theater is finalized, but it will be a mix of show tunes and light- demand through June 25, a reading of a new play in planning to be back in person in 2022. For more information, hearted fun. For more information, visit goodspeed.org. development, Moonlighters: it’s a love story set in a visit westportplayhouse.org. futuristic workplace by Hartford’s own Cin Martinez. THE HARTFORD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Walden by Amy Berryman makes its North American For more than 75 years, the Hartford Symphony Orchestra premiere in July; dates to be announced soon. For has been one of America’s leading orchestras and one of more information, visit twhartford.org. Connecticut’s premier musical organizations. Their outdoor chamber concert series, Spring Splash!, takes place at
66 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 67 EASONS AT SHOME A television show that highlights all the ways we make a house, a home.
Lenard Chamber Series presents MIDSUMMER MUSIC with THE PARKER QUARTET July 21, 25, & 29 | Limited In-Person Audience & Livestream Get ready for a show that discovers new ideas for renovations, ways to keep loved ones safe, style Featuring the music of Schumann, Dvorak, Beethoven, Philip Glass & more. inspiration, decor trends, family recipes and so much more with ‘Seasons AT HOME’ … a show that 2020 has given “life at home” new highlights all the ways we make a house, a home. TICKETS & INFO: jorgensen.uconn.edu | [email protected] | @JorgensenUConn meaning. Our homes are not just where we go to unwind after a Seasons Media is proud to long day… they’re often where we announce Seasons AT HOME live, work and play. “Seasons AT television show in 2021. Hosted HOME” television show is going by Ashley Kohl, this one-of-a-kind to offer more than just helpful tips and ideas. It will give viewers show is packed with content inspiration and open up a whole offering viewers an inside look EASONS at local companies dedicated to new world of ideas and ways to S make life at home more enjoyable. AT HOME improving our homes, our lives, It will include a unique perspective our communities and - most as it highlights local companies importantly - our families. and shares how they can help with home projects. The Network: WTNH show’s digital component Seasonal Segments: Full half-hour show runs 4 times will take a deeper look into within the month. Saturdays at 11:00 am in April (Spring), the story behind these July (Summer), October (Fall), and December (Winter). businesses. Viewers will Air dates and times subject to change. get to know the owners, families and stories behind Format: Seasons contributors will be out and about in the brand. Connecticut with the local people, places and companies that are working hard to refresh our homes, our families and our lives. This is not a studio show, and will be filmed safely on site with owners and staff. Bring your brand to life for Connecticut homeowners, and be a part of this special multi-media experience with Seasons AT HOME. Reserve your spot today!
Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 69 Creating Active Lives on the Spectrum
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70 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 71 PETS
Husband and wife team Eric and Rashi Khanna Wiese, hosts of CBS' "Lucky Dog," are passionate about making the human-pet connection as strong as possible. All photos contributed. Feeling Lucky The New Hosts of CBS’ ‘Lucky Dog’ Offer Advice to Pet Owners
By RENEE DININO
hen the CBS show Lucky training facility. I had already been working with rescues, Dog kicked off its eighth animals and shelters for over 10 years. This seemed like a season in January, it did perfect fit to pass the torch along and keep those Saturday so with two new hosts at mornings going.” the helm: husband and Eric is an American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen wife team Eric and Rashi Evaluator, as well as a member of the Association of Khanna Wiese. Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International The duo knew they had big shoes to fill, following Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). in the footsteps of the show’s original host Brandon Eric’s journey began as a teen volunteering at a boarding WMcMillan. Lucky Dog focuses on rescuing shelter dogs kennel in St. Louis, Missouri, and he instantly fell in love and finding them their forever homes. This wonderful with dog training. He became even more intrigued by couple will undoubtedly continue the mission of animal behavior. He believes in positive reinforcement as informing the public about animal care, rights, advocacy a training approach and has devoted himself to teaching and kindness. and sharing more positive, humane, and scientific ways to CBS’ Lucky Dog is a must in our house! My mantra train dogs. is, “People and pets: when we’re kinder to animals we’re A big part of what Eric does is rehabilitating dogs in kinder to people.” Eric and Rashi believe in that, too, and need, specifically German Shepherds at the Westside share wonderful stories along with positive pet training German Shepherd Rescue in Los Angeles. After and lifestyle tips. becoming a foster parent, he was drawn to helping “This has been a long-term dream of ours,” says Rashi. dogs that displayed fearful and/or aggressive behavior, “We always knew we wanted to rescue dogs. We couldn’t to improve their temperament. It’s not always an easy wait to dive in and help as may animals as possible.” task, as sometimes larger breeds tend to get mislabeled, When they were approached by the show’s executives, misrepresented and misunderstood. adds Eric, “we were already running a foundation and This is how he met Archie, a German Shepherd who
72 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 73 from Eric and Rashi with the house. This may help. I’m not sure if there are any prospective family, and then other behavioral issues, but this may be a good place to the end result: the dog is united start.” with a forever family with all Eric in Tolland asks: “I have two dogs – a four- the right skills and tools for a year-old German Shepherd named Barry and a two- successful life. year-old Border Collie mix named Shep – and a tuxedo Eric has three tips for people cat named Boo Boo. Barry keeps licking Shep and Boo who are new pet parents: Boo nonstop. They are very good with him, but what patience, consistence and don’t can we do to stop this?” train your dogs with a heavy Eric answers: “So he’s grooming the cat and dog, so hand. to speak? That can be neurotic behavior, sometimes I also had a chance to it’s an allergy too, where dogs will lick certain things, interview Eric and Rashi and they’ll lick furniture, their tongue could be itchy. It ask questions submitted by my could be a texture thing. It could be out of boredom, so listeners via iHeartRadio and take note of when he’s actually doing it. It’s important The River 105.9. Below are to break those habits, but also to get more insight. a few of them. It’s important Sometimes it’s like clockwork. You may want to put to note, they answered as best Barry on leash and redirect him to a toy and see if he they could without knowing the starts licking the toy and it may give us more insight. people or pets, and were sure It could be an allergy. Sometimes dogs will lick their to always remind fans to talk paws; it could be nervousness or anxious behavior. to your vets and consult with I’d have to see it to give it a better diagnosis, but just professionals. As with humans, taking a stab at it [I] suggest redirecting Barry to a toy. every dog is different and there Also bring these behaviors to your vet.” are many things to consider Eric notes that German Shepherds are particularly when training your pets. prone to food allergies, so always talk to a veterinarian Helena from Torrington about dietary needs. asks: “I have 3 dachshunds Molly in West Hartford asks: “We have a two- that are wonderful family pets, year-old Pit Bull mix, how can we convince our except when people come over neighbors he’s a good boy? We follow ALL the rules, they get a little nasty and now always on a leash, we dress him up, he loves everyone. that the pandemic has taken He is the kindest soul on the planet; he’s a rescue and over I’m worried all the training looks like a tough guy, but he’s not. we’ve done will be forgotten. Eric answers: “That’s a great question and Any tips?” unfortunately Pit Bulls do get that stigma. You can’t was rescued from an L.A. dog fighting ring. the time, she had actually never worked with dogs, and Eric answers: “Training force anyone to change their minds. I like that they’re “Eric was the only person Archie responded to,” says even had a slight fear of the unknown, but through Eric is very similar to us learning a new language or dressing him up maybe in cute outfits, as long as the Rashi. and Archie she became fascinated with dog psychology musical instruments, it is something that we have to dog is comfortable with it, to make the dog seem less Eric and Archie’s bond grew and, through and how it could be applied to human psychology. She consistently do to retain. So this is something that we rehabilitation, Archie became the loving family dog then decided to leave her work, and as she puts it, “I quit threatening. should be doing with our dogs, consistently training. that would go on to seal the deal when Eric met Rashi my job and joined Eric and here we are today.” I don’t know if they’re friends with their neighbors It can be challenging at this time, because we’re not in 2014. As Rashi jokingly recalls her first meeting The couple has four pets, with Archie at the helm, or not. If they’re not, I don’t know if I’d maybe waste having guests or as many people over. With that being with Eric with a smile, she says, “I’m sorry Eric, but if along with Enzo, Rupert and Winston. They sadly effort in trying to get them on board, unless there is said, maybe you can go to more public areas where Archie wasn’t there, I don’t know….” It was love at first announced in April the death of their beloved dog some kind of a conflict. Especially with people and they can at least see other people, following safety dog! Archie, who was in jeopardy of being euthanized Estelle. stigmatizing pit bulls. It’s hard to change people’s protocols. at a shelter after an unimaginable life, united this couple In each episode of Lucky Dog Eric and Rashi minds, but as long as you’re happy and your dog Something else to consider [is that] with three dogs, for an exciting journey even they could not anticipate. introduce the audience to a new rescue. It starts at the is happy [that’s enough]. I know judgment can be one can be the trigger. When people start coming over Rashi, who has a degree in psychology and a master’s beginning of the journey of this would-be unwanted, debilitating at times, especially if it’s from someone you may want to introduce each pet one at a time on degree in social work, was impressed by the positive seemingly untrainable dog that Eric then takes to their living next door.” leash on neutral grounds, outside in the driveway or reinforcement training methods Eric used with dogs. At training facility. You’ll see a combination of efforts Rashi adds: “I’m hoping the behavior speaks for
74 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 75 itself, and this will change [the neighbors’] opinion over So when the dog lunges on leash with their resource time.” provider at other people, the people will keep walking Eric and Rashi note, however, that just because people and not stop, so the dog thinks ‘OK, I did my job and Is Seasons Media may not react to your pet the way you want them to, it protected my resource provider. I got that person away.’ doesn’t mean they are assuming the worst about your The dog thinks, ‘I lunged, they kept going; I did my part of your 2021-2022 pet. They may actually be respecting your space, or job.’ With the cars too, because it’s over-stimulating they may have a fear of pets and just be avoiding an them, they may think the same thing: they lunge, it kept | Five Ways to be Fit | CRIS Radio
uncomfortable situation. They may have had a previous Coming to America, Part 2 | going and they did their job.” Historic Gardens marketing plan? SPRING 2019: encounter with a dog and an irresponsible owner, for Eric and Rashi offered solutions to this problem, and instance, says Rashi, so try not to take it personally. SEASONS of ™
others, when I spoke with them. You can watch our full Seasons Media, locally owned and operated, offers a growing THE SHO
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Nicole in Rocky Hill asks: “I have a Labradoodle I conversation at https://tinyurl.com/55tm6c2r. NE EASONSOF THE SHORELINE who also has Addison’s disease, diagnosed at four collection of high-end, glossy magazines that are direct-mailed to Eric and Rashi are truly using their education, life months. He does well within his family unit, friends and experiences, and their love for each other and dogs influential households across Connecticut. Our unique, multi-media family, however when walking he tends to lunge at cars, S to make a difference in the world. People and pets, approach to reaching these households includes a variety other people and dogs – but it is not consistent. He’s a when we’re kinder to animals we’re kinder to people: A very friendly dog, but for some reason on his walks he of opportunities including two television shows, changes. When we had a trainer, he walked and behaved statement worth repeating! Seasons Magazines Up Close and CT VOICE Out Loud. perfectly for her, but not for us, any tips? Eric answers: “Addison’s may or may not affect Renee DiNino is the director of community affairs for
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76 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021
MONTH IN CONNECTICUT
SPRING2021 FINAL THOUGHTS
Taking it Slow A Change of Pace Might be Just What the Doctor Ordered
By MATTHEW DICKS / Illustrated By SEAN WANG
e’re about 300 I know what this is. It’s happened and writes books and consults with miles from to me four times in the last dozen corporations and officiates weddings Kennebunkport, years. It’s pneumonia. I have and produces storytelling shows and Maine. I’m pneumonia. There is absolutely no is constantly looking for the next sitting in the doubt in my mind that my diagnosis thing. seat beside my wife, Elysha. She’s is correct. This insidious disease has If I can do all that and more, I can Whappy. I’m happy, too. We’re on waited until this moment on the Mass go on vacation with pneumonia. vacation. It’s the first vacation we Pike to clue me in to its presence in But I can’t tell Elysha, because if have had in 10 years. The first since my lungs, and I can’t believe it. I she knows that I’m sick, she’s going our honeymoon. It’s the first time can’t believe I’m going to ruin this to turn us around immediately. The we’ve managed to get away since trip for my wife. Our vacation is over trick is I have to go on vacation with we had children and they ruined our before it even started. pneumonia and not let Elysha know. lives. The monsters don’t allow us I turn to tell her. She smiles at me. This becomes my mission. to do anything. They take our money She looks so relaxed and carefree, but When we arrive in Kennebunkport, and suck away our joy. They steal that is all about to end because you the body aches have begun, so after our freedom. We can’t go anywhere can’t go on vacation with pneumonia. checking into our hotel, I tell Elysha unless we are saddled with these My mother died of complications to go check out the room. “I’ll bring small, awful human beings. from pneumonia. You don’t mess up the bags.” But this is our 10th wedding around with this disease. No one can I do this because there are a dozen anniversary. Elysha’s parents have go on vacation with pneumonia… steps to the door to our suite, and agreed to take our children for four except maybe I can. when you have pneumonia, a dozen days and three nights so we can head If there’s someone in the world steps are a mountain. I don’t want off to Kennebunkport to spend some who can go on vacation with her to see me struggling. So when I time alone, together. pneumonia, it’s me. I am a relentless finally reach the landing with bags in Except now we can’t. We’re about human being. I can plow through hand, I take a few minutes to catch halfway into the trip when I suddenly anything. As I pilot the car through my breath before opening the door realize that something terrible is traffic. I start to think I can do this. I and entering the room. happening, and I’m going to have to can do anything. I am relentless. “What do you want to do?” Elysha tell my bride of 10 years that we need At home, I get up at 4:30 every asks. to turn around and head home. morning, and after getting dressed “Why don’t we just go sit on the The problem is that I’m cold. I’m and feeding the cats, the first thing porch over there and relax for a cold, and it’s the middle of July. I I do is sweep the kitchen and dining while?” shouldn’t be cold in July. room floor. I fold a load of laundry. She tilts her head slightly and I’m also finding it hard to breathe. Empty the dishwasher. Feed the kids. offers me the kind of look that says, I can barely catch my breath, and Write a chapter of a novel. Pay a bill. “Is there a raccoon in the room?” She all I’m doing is driving a car. And I Record a podcast. I live a full day can’t believe it. “You just want to have a headache. It’s starting to throb while most people are still asleep. sit?” she says. “No novel writing? No between my temples. I’m a person who teaches children poker playing? No email answering?
78 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 Seasons Magazines • SUMMER 2021 79 What does Duncaster No podcast recording? You just want so that when she comes back it looks pneumonia and I hid it from Elysha to sit and watch the water?” like I’ve eaten about a third of the for four days. They’re laughing. They “Yes,” I say, desperate to sit down. burger. As she eats, I push around the can’t believe it. So we do. We sit and watch the water rest. Eventually she asks if I’m going Then Elysha says, “You know… and talk. to finish. I say I want to leave room I kind of like pneumonia Matt more Eventually we go for a walk for ice cream. than regular Matt sometimes. He’s a safety & security to check out the town. Stroll by I’m like a Marine when it comes to lot easier to live with.” Kennebunkport’s famous lobster roll burgers: Never leave a man behind, Suddenly all of that belief that I am mean to me? shack. Pop our heads into all of the but I leave this burger behind for the the greatest husband that ever lived ice cream places and everything in first time in my life. is gone. For the past year, I have not between. As we walk, I hold Elysha’s The next morning, I do the sat still for a single moment. I have hand. We often hold hands anyway, unthinkable. I sleep until 9 a.m. I not slept late. I have not walked but this time I make sure to hold her have never slept past six and I am up slow. I’ve spent every day of the hand because I know I can’t keep up on most days well before five. And I past year sweeping my floors and with her normal pace. I have adopted tried to get up at five when the alarm the pace of a frail, old man thanks to went off but I can’t, so I try again at finding a new jobs and piling on this pneumonia, so by holding her six and seven and eight, and finally, responsibilities and dragging Elysha hand, I can force her into my elderly when Elysha stirs at 9 a.m. she turns along with me, insisting that we stroll. to me and says, “Did you come back continually and relentlessly move Time to focus The next day we go kayaking. to bed?” forward at all times, and it occurs to on what I love. I know this will be impossible for “No,” I say. “I just didn’t want to me – for the first time – that maybe me, so I make sure we rent a double get up. I love lying next to you so it’s not always great to be married to kayak, and I put myself in the back much that I couldn’t bring myself to someone who can’t stop for a minute. Dale Richter so that Elysha can’t see me from her get out of bed.” She believes me. She If I actually want to be the great Duncaster resident, position in the front. We’re kayaking believes everything. husband that I imagined myself to age 76 on the Kennebunkport River. It’s not Mission accomplished. Four be, perhaps I should find a way to sit a still lake. It’s not easy, but because days on with pneumonia and she down occasionally without a laptop Avid photographer I can’t catch my breath, Elysha is never suspects a thing. I wait until or a notebook or headphones. Maybe since 1995 doing all of the paddling. I just splash the moment we step back into the I should just sit next to my wife and my paddle to make it sound like I’m house to announce, “Honey, I have watch the world pass by. Maybe paddling and occasionally dip my pneumonia.” I should lie in bed in the morning paddle into the water to steer, but I She doesn’t believe me, but when just because lying next to her is a Feeling confident about the road ahead means living a do no paddling whatsoever. She’s she takes my temperature, it’s 103 beautiful thing. more fulfilling life today. Here’s why more and more proactive exhausted by the time we’re done. degrees. I go to the doctor’s office Maybe Relentless Matt is not the That night we go to dinner, and the next day. They scan my lungs and seniors are turning to Duncaster for a future they can rely on: best husband all the time and maybe now that the stomachaches have confirm my diagnosis. I also receive • Assurance of health care and personal services at a little bit of Pneumonia Matt is the started. I don’t throw up. I just the pneumonia vaccine. “Usually right recipe. predictable costs safeguards you. feel sick to my stomach. Hunger reserved for 70-year-old women,” disappears. When you have I’m told as the nurse sticks me in the • Estate and asset protection safeguards your family’s future. Matthew Dicks is an elementary pneumonia, you can go days without arm. school teacher, bestselling novelist, • An active, engaged community and staff lets you live Now Offering: eating. Food looks awful. But this is I did it. I preserved the joy of our your way with renewed energy, friendship and purpose. our actual anniversary, Our 10-year anniversary vacation despite a life- and a record 51-time Moth Story In-Person & Virtual Tours anniversary dinner. I can’t just refuse threatening illness. I think to myself SLAM champion. His latest books are Twenty-one Truths About Love Call (860) 735-4503 to schedule. to eat. that I’m the greatest husband in the Life with LifeCare at Duncaster starts at just $141,000! I order a bacon cheeseburger. It’s history of the world, and I believe and The Other Mother. a beautiful burger, but I can’t stand that for about 363 days. One year the thought of a single bite. So when later, it’s our 11th anniversary. On Sean Wang, an MIT architecture Call (860) 735-4503 or visit Duncaster.org Elysha excuses herself to use the this night we’re having dinner with graduate, is author of the sci-fi restroom, I chop off a hunk of the friends, and I’m telling them the graphic novel series, Runners. Learn to schedule your FREE consultation. burger and throw it under the table story of how I went on vacation with more at seanwang.com. 40 Loeffler Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002 • (860) 726-2000 • Duncaster.org
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