William J. Holstein will be the speaker at the SECWAC meeting on Thursday, Jan. 30, in Old Lyme.
OLD LYME — On Thursday, Jan. 30, at 6 p.m., the Southeast Connecticut World Affairs Council (SECWAC) hosts author and expert on US-China relations William J. Holstein to speak on U.S.-China Relations: The Storm Ahead? The event will be held at the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme. It will be preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m.
After years of building tensions, President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to rachet up tariffs against China by up to 60 percent. American consumers and American businesses will feel the pain, and the government of Xi Jinping will almost certainly retaliate against American interests.
Xi is a Marxist nationalist, meaning he believes that Western capitalistic democracies must be overcome.
To that end, China’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Iran’s campaign to encircle Israel shows no sign of abating. China’s cyberwar against America’s Information Technology systems also has reached new heights. It is a kind of confrontation the United States has never before experienced. What is the way forward?
Holstein was dispatched to Hong Kong by United Press International in 1979 and witnessed the first stirrings of China’s economic modernization in southern China. He was promoted to Beijing bureau chief and studied the Chinese language intensively.
He subsequently became World Editor of Business Week magazine and either wrote for or was on staff at U.S. News & World Report, Fortune, The New York Times, and Chief Executive magazine, remaining engaged in the issues surrounding the emergence of East Asia.
He is the author or co-author of 10 books, most recently co-authoring “Battlefield Cyber: How China And Russia Are Undermining Our Democracy and National Security.” (Prometheus, August 2023.) Another title of interest: “The New Art of War: China’s Deep Strategy Inside the United States.” (BrickTower, 2019.)
Tonight at Old Lyme’s Annual Town Business Meeting, Carolyn Wakeman, second from left, was named the Town’s 2024 Citizen of the Year. Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker stands to Wakeman’s left, Selectman Jim Lampos to her right and Selectwoman Judith Read is at far right. Photo credit:Town of Old Lyme.
OLD LYME—At Monday evening’s Annual Town Business Meeting, Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker announced Carolyn Wakeman as the Town’s 2024 Citizen of the Year.
Shoemaker introduced the eagerly anticipated announcement by saying, “This award, “Citizen of the Year,” is presented by the Town of Old Lyme to recognize someone who has gone above and beyond to improve the well-being of others and our community as a whole. Our “Citizen of the Year” is an individual who has made significant contributions to our community through numerous hours of volunteer work and leadership. This year’s recipient has demonstrated outstanding service in a multitude of areas: education, social justice, and the preservation of our town’s history. Their values of civic responsibility and community engagement are to be recognized.”
With the identity of the recipient still secret, Shoemaker continued, “When I contacted the people that nominated this year’s recipient, they reached out to others that they worked with, and a multitude of endorsing letters were sent to me. These letters included many of the same descriptive words: passionate, a true treasure, dedicated, a hard worker, scholar, unwavering commitment, and gardener to name a few.”
Shoemaker then said, “Tonight, it is my honor to announce that those words describe the 2024 Old Lyme Citizen of the Year, Carolyn Wakeman.”
Old Lyme’s 2024 Citizen of the Year Carolyn Wakeman (left) stands with Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker.
After an extremely surprised Wakeman (she had attended the event believing a friend was receiving the award) had joined Shoemaker at the front of the auditorium, Shoemaker continued, “Every good story has a strong beginning. Ed Pinn who serves on the Historic District Commission with you informed me that you began your life here in Old Lyme. He told me your father was once the Postmaster, that you graduated from high school here and then went on to have a distinguished career as a teacher and researcher. Your research took you to China and then to the University of California/Berkeley, as a professor of journalism and East Asian Studies. You returned home to Old Lyme in 2005 and Carolyn, we are so glad you did!”
Shoemaker added, “Some might say you came home to retire but your relentless energy was channeled into organizing not one, but several groups and organizations. By the way, Carolyn did not just organize these groups, she led them. John Noyes wrote, “She has developed ways for people to collaborate in important endeavors; she has helped create communities.””
Noting, “John [Noyes] spoke highly of your dedication to your historical work and the time and energy you commit to tracking original sources and documenting information.,” Shoemaker said, “This was echoed by Jeffrey Andersen, Former Director of the Florence Griswold Museum, who wrote of your idea for the museum to start a series of blog posts that would explore various aspects of the town’s past, using primary source documents in the Lyme Historical Society Archives. Jeff [Andersen] noted that The History Blog became an indispensable resource for town residents, students, and scholars from near and far. The Connecticut League of History Organizations awarded the History Blog an Award of Merit in 2013.”
From left to right, Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker, Old Lyme’s 2024 Citizen of the Year Carolyn Wakeman, Selectman Jim Lampos and Selectwoman Judith Read admire the framed citation of Wakeman’s award.
Another person who commended Wakeman’s work ethic was Amy Kurtz Lansing, Curator at the Florence Griswold Museum, who, according to Shoemaker, noted that Wakeman’s “tireless research in pursuit of hard truths has changed how she and others understand this town and its history.” Kurtz Lansing further commented that Wakeman, “Served not only as a Trustee but also as a member of several board committees at the museum … volunteer[ing] for 15 years in the Lyme Historical Society Archives, where you unearthed information about enslavement, and thus this became your next project, The Witness Stones Old Lyme.”
Shoemaker told Wakeman that, “… through the Witness Stones project you have provided middle school students with primary historical documents from which to learn about enslavement. After their studies, these students write poems to commemorate some of the over 300 people of African and Native American descent who lived here in bondage and whose presence and labor shaped Old Lyme. Amy also stated that you “courageously engage in dialogue with those of differing perspectives to move the project forward in the interest of truth and history.”
Citing support for the award from Old Lyme’s Phoebe Griffin Noyes (PGN) Library Director Katie Huffman, Shoemaker quoted Huffman as saying about Wakeman, “It is a privilege to work directly with you on the project … Carolyn’s dedication to this project simply can’t be overstated. She’s known to be the historian of the project, and as such has contributed countless hours of research and expertise toward better understanding the lives of those who were enslaved in historic Lyme, but her skill as a collaborator and organizer are perhaps less well known.”
Shoemaker explained that both Liz Frankel and Tim Griswold had shared their thoughts about working with Wakeman on multiple projects, saying, “They both note that in your role as Director of the Old Lyme Cemetery Association you have “been a visionary force.” You have led the restoration of the ancient section of Duck River Cemetery and under your guidance an informative website and a digital burial database has been created. Liz and Tim both note that you have worked hard to improve the way the Board functions. You have made thoughtful revisions to the association’s bylaws, which have significantly strengthened the association and have encouraged fellow Board members to offer their opinions on how the operation of the eight [Old Lyme] cemeteries could be improved.”
Old Lyme’s 2024 Citizen of the Year Carolyn Wakeman shares a celebratory smile with Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker and Selectman Jim Lampos .
Tim Griswold also noted that Wakeman was, “An active participant in the seasonal cleaning, straightening and mending of grave markers in the “Ancient Section” of the Duck River Cemetery. Dozens of volunteers come to the Cemetery to work under the supervision of a professional monument preservationist.” Griswold stated, “Carolyn oversees these events and, on occasion, she has rewarded workers with a post-work wine and cheese treat.”
Shoemaker than listed some other accomplishments that are “noteworthy, as Old Lyme has benefited from all of them.” These include:
The history she pieced together provided an invaluable foundation for the 2025 Florence Griswold Museum exhibition “Their Kindred Earth: Photographs of William Earle Williams.”
Her work to establish the presence of Black history here in Old Lyme also resulted in her organization of three Juneteenth Jazz and Poetry events in association with the Museum, with a fourth installment to take place this spring.
Her leadership of the volunteer members of the Florence Griswold Museum’s Archives Interest Group, which explores local history through the museum’s document collections.
Undertaking exhibitions at the Museum related to Lyme’s early medical care and oceangoing families sharing archival materials with the public.
Her collaborative work across local institutions including the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, the Cemetery Association, the Old Lyme Historical Society, and the Historic District Commission.
As the researcher and author of The Charm of the Place: Old Lyme in the 1920s (published with the Old Lyme Historical Society) and Forgotten Voices: The Hidden History of a New England Meetinghouse (published with the First Congregational Church and Wesleyan University Press),Carolyn has provided anyone who loves Old Lyme—as she does—with a factual understanding of its past and how that history has shaped the town it is today.
Old Lyme’s 2024 Citizen of the Year Carolyn Wakeman (second from left) exchanges a brief word with Selectman Jim Lampos during the post-award photography session.
Marcia McLean wrote, “Carolyn’s contributions to the Town of Old Lyme have not only enriched our understanding of Old Lyme’s past but have also educated us as we set a course for the town in the future.”
Old Lyme PGN Library Director Huffman added that Wakeman has served, “To help the people of Old Lyme connect with, understand, and learn from its past to become a stronger, more thoughtful, and more compassionate community now, and in the days to come.”
Shoemaker concluded, “Carolyn, it is evident that you love Old Lyme and that is just one of the many reasons we are proud to name you as our 2024 Citizen of the Year.”
Wakeman was then presented with flowers and a proclamation declaring her as Old Lyme’s 2024 Citizen of the Year.
Editor’s Note: We send hearty congratulations to Wakeman on this well-deserved honor.
Old Lyme Emergency Services Director David Roberge gives a presentation at the Town’s Annual Business Meeting about the Emergency Operations Center Building Project.
OLD LYME—Around 100 people attended Monday evening’s Old Lyme Town Business Meeting when Emergency Services Director David Roberge gave a presentation about the Emergency Operations Center Building Project. The project involves expanding and upgrading the facility.
Subsequently, an appropriation in the amount of $1,522,170 for the total cost of the facility was approved unanimously by a voice vote. Grant funding is available totaling $912,950, which, if obtained, would reduce the net cost of the project to the town to $609,220.
This evening, at the Old Lyme Annual Town Business Meeting, there will be a presentation, followed by a vote, on proposed upgrades to our Emergency Operations Center (EOC). After expected grants of over $900,000, which will cover most of the construction, furnishings, and IT, the town would be responsible for about $600,000 for the upgrades to our town asset at the Boughton Road Fire Station..
As a former town selectwoman, I have participated in numerous emergency drills and actual emergency events at the Boughton Road Fire House. I consider these communication and infrastructure upgrades important and necessary for the safety of our residents. Additionally, these upgrades will enhance the required training of our volunteers who, for example, must practice decontamination drills in the event of an accident at Millstone. Compared to other facilities I have seen, the EOC is cramped, and the limited space makes it difficult for personnel to efficiently manage the multitude of required tasks in an emergency event. A centralized facility in any emergency provides direct, effective, and essential, communication to all emergency personnel and residents.
I understand that emergencies requiring personnel to assemble at the EOC are infrequent, but if and when they arise, an effective operation center is absolutely critical.
OLD LYME — On Monday at the Old Lyme Annual Town Business Meeting, there will be a presentation regarding the proposal to make an appropriation in the amount of $1,522,170 to fund the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Building Project. A vote on the appropriation is anticipated after the presentation.
The meeting agenda notes that grant funding is available totaling $912,950, which, if obtained, would reduce the net cost of the project to the Town.
Both Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker and Selectman Jim Lampos have shared statements with us giving their thoughts on the project. We have published them below, in full and unedited, for readers to digest prior to Monday evening’s meeting and potential vote.
Statement by Old Lyme First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker
It is my opinion that the Boughton Road Firehouse expansion is a worthwhile project for our town to undertake at this time. The three key factors to consider are the funding of this project, the various uses the facility will provide, and the increased awareness of our vulnerability to disasters that could impact our town.
Whenever possible, we encourage seeking grants for projects of this magnitude. Emergency Management Director, Dave Roberge, secured a grant for $758,000 after the Board of Finance approved $100,000 in FY 22/23. Completion of the project by May of 2026 is a requirement of the federal grant. Dave also anticipates additional grant funding of approximately $155,000 which will aid in the overall funding. The cost to the town will be approximately $650,000. The federal grant is substantial, and there is no guarantee it will be available again in the future.
The upgraded Emergency Operations Center is a facility where training exercises can be conducted for all our emergency personnel. The space has been thoughtfully designed with flexible seating for approximately 30 people in the main room. This room can be used for training, educational presentations, and meetings when not in operation for a declared emergency. The space would also serve as an emergency town hall facility should anything happen to our building at 52 Lyme Street. The current room only accommodates 8 people comfortably.
It is imperative to be prepared for any type of disaster that could impact our town (natural or man-made). The public should understand that the Emergency Operations Center allows for collaboration between multiple agencies to ensure that critical services continue during a disaster. It is activated before an anticipated event and remains open to manage the aftermath. This is the centralized point for information flow, decision making, and communication. It is a space where any situation is monitored, and decisions are made. This ensures that our response to the situation is as timely and effective as possible.
I realize that the funding of this project might not come at the most opportune time, as there are several other initiatives in progress which impact our capital resources. However, I believe in being prepared and pro-active. Disasters happen, and we should not consider ourselves immune. This expansion will provide the town with enhanced support now and in the future.
Our Town Meeting form of government enables eligible voters to make decisions about their town. I felt it was important to provide our residents with the opportunity to vote on this matter.
Statement by Old Lyme Selectman Jim Lampos
I am in favor of the Boughton Road Firehouse expansion for the purpose of upgrading our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to meet current standards and requirements. This project was first approved by the Board of Finance for fiscal year 22-23 with a commitment of $100,000, allowing Emergency Management Director Dave Roberge to secure $758,000 in guaranteed federal grants. Along with other anticipated funding, a total of $912,950 in grants will be applied to defray a total estimated project cost of $1,522,170. A federal grant currently in hand requires substantial completion of the EOC by May 2026 and a delay now will imperil our ability to pursue this project at all. Given the current realities of federal funding, it is unlikely that grants of this magnitude will be readily available again in the near future.
The need is evident. Thankfully, in recent years our town has avoided the sort of natural and human-made disasters that have befallen other towns in our state and across the nation, but we are not invulnerable. Infrastructure of national importance within our purview include Interstate 95 and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor, the commercial shipping lanes and recreational boating interests on the Long Island Sound and Connecticut River, as well as the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant. Further, we’ve seen the increasing effects of extreme weather in our region. While it has been a long time since we’ve had a catastrophic hurricane of the magnitude of 1815 or 1938, it is imperative that we are prepared for such an event.
The Boughton Road Firehouse is now 32 years old, and expansion and upgrades are in order to meet the mounting threats of today’s world. Having a “second town hall” where all emergency personnel and town officials can gather in one facility, with state of the art monitoring and communications equipment is vital to securing an efficient and effective response. The facility will also be available for educational and training purposes, meetings and emergency drills, and will help further sharpen our readiness.
This Board of Selectmen has been very conservative and refrained from proposing new projects of any significant magnitude. We are mindful of our obligation to hold the line on spending as much as possible. We inherited several projects which were already underway, such as the renovation of the schools, the Senior Center expansion, the possible shoreline sewer project, and this Emergency Operations Center. Of those, the upgrade of the EOC is most vital to our preparedness. After grants, the final town share of cost, approximately in the mid $600,000 range, is in my estimate a wise investment in our future
