EAST HADDAM—It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of David Warden Holahan, 74, of East Haddam, CT, who died June 11, 2024 after a battle with cancer.
His obituary sums him up as, “a seasoned writer, commentator and reporter.”
He was also a kind and generous man, and a passionate believer in the importance of community journalism. I met him for lunch once and he gave me some incredibly valuable advice on how to manage LymeLine and then contributed gratis a wonderful column about the history of local journalism in Old Lyme.
David’s obituary explains that, “In 1974, he co-founded The Gazette, an Old Lyme, CT weekly newspaper, which survived into the late 1980s.”
The obituary adds, “He also co-published The Compass, a newspaper in Mystic, CT. The Gazette was named the best newspaper in New England for its size. An annual April Fool’s Day article kept readers on their toes. The spoof caught the attention of The New York Times and is enshrined in the Museum of Hoaxes in San Diego, CA.”
According to his obituary, “Holahan went on to write and freelance articles for newspapers and magazines, great and small nationwide, among them The New York Times, The Hartford Courant, Newsweek, and the San Francisco Chronicle.
In recent years, he served as editor of the East Haddam News and wrote its nature column, “Wild Things,” to the last.”
The obituary continues, “The son of Richard and Pamela Crawford Holahan of Huntington, NY, he is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kyn Tolson; his son and daughter-in-law, Jackson and Sarah Holahan; and grandson, Walker …”
David’s obituary notes, “Among his proudest achievements is capturing the blue ribbon at the Hadlyme, CT Derby’s Giant Pumpkin competition. Gorgeous George weighed in at 525 pounds. Holahan wrote about George, of course. He also wrote about serious environmental questions such as climate change and habitat and species degradation, not just near home in Connecticut, but worldwide, as well.”
Donations in David’s name can be made to the East Haddam Land Trust, P.O. Box 122, East Haddam, CT 06423.
We send our sincere condolences to David’s family on his passing. He was a skilled writer and truly a good man.
The traditional cap toss marks the end of the Commencement Ceremony for the Lyme-Old Lyme High School Class of 2024. All photos by Lyme-Old Lyme Schools.
OLD LYME—Despite somewhat threatening weather at the Commencement Ceremony held Friday evening, the rain pretty much held off until the 106 Lyme-Old Lyme High School seniors had received their diplomas and officially graduated, thus becoming the Class of 2024.
We have published below the speeches made at Commencement in the order in which they were given. More photos will follow later.
Class President Griffin McGlinchey
Good evening, it is my pleasure to be speaking to you at the 51st commencement ceremony of Lyme-Old Lyme High School. A warm welcome to faculty, staff, administration, board of education, parents, family, friends, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2024. Take a moment to reflect; you are sitting at a graduation that has been 13 years in the making. All of the time, effort, long days and late nights of your high school career are coming to a close – for the most part, at least. Enjoy the long two months you have over the summer before you have to do it all over again in college, the workforce, and the real world. Think about the people who have gotten you here and be grateful for the sacrifices and work they have done to push you to insure that you are the best possible person you can be. On behalf of the graduating class, I would like to thank the teachers, faculty, and everyone involved with making this high school such a great place. We are so grateful for the knowledge and wisdom you have imparted to us.
Seniors, if you go on a trip down memory lane, back to elementary school, you might remember learning each other’s names, swinging on the playground, and getting into trouble playing tackle football at recess. We didn’t have much of an idea what a graduation was or what the future held for us. We were focused on the important thing – just having fun. Take a lesson from your younger self and enjoy the little things in life, and cherish the people around you who make those little things so special. Make sure to enjoy what you have at hand, as it is easy to get caught up in life and miss the present moment.
After elementary school, we made our way to Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School, which can be summed up in awkward dances, playing gaga ball, and building mousetrap cars. Middle school was a time of change but most importantly, it was where we started to have a solid identity as a class.. Whether you went to school in Old Lyme from the start or joined this year, this class was always there with open arms to support and encourage fellow classmates. By the time we made it to high school, many would agree we weren’t as close as we are now – in fact we were 6 feet apart in every class for every hour of the day. It wasn’t until sophomore year that we got to show our faces, and emulate the Future song that goes by the title of “Mask Off.”
There’s no doubt that this class has struggled at times, and has overcome numerous challenges, difficulties, and growing pains during our high school career. Despite this, this class stuck together, pushing alongside one another toward our own personal goals. This graduating class was something special and had impressive contributions from every single student. From award winning artists, recognized musicians and actors, to national competing attorneys, this class had it all. Athletic championships were also not very hard to come by. In this past year alone, Wildcats athletic teams were led by the Class of 2024 to 4 state championships including the first boys’ basketball championship in program history and the girls tennis team who’s won in four straight years. There was also the boys co-op hockey team, the one that I played on, and although we lost in the state championship, my mom said I was a state champion in her book, so I guess that’s just as good as the ring that could’ve been on my finger.
This class was adaptable, and whatever came our way we were ready to take on full force, and push a positive culture forward into Lyme-Old Lyme High School and the community as a whole. I am proud to be in a class full of amazing people, and I wish the best for everyone moving forward. In the words of Abe Lincoln “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” While our time at Lyme-Old Lyme High School comes to a close, I can say in full confidence that this graduating class has what it takes to create a bright and exciting future for the world. Class of 2024, it’s been a ride and we’re at the finish line. We’re saying goodbye to a chapter of our lives, but the friendships and memories we’ve made along the way will stick with us for life. I wish everyone the best of luck creating their own future, and I am proud of every single one of you in those seats, thank you.
Lyme-Old Lyme High School Principal James Wygonik
Good Evening and welcome as we celebrate the Lyme-Old Lyme Class of 2024.
I’d like to welcome the members of the Board of Education, Superintendent Neviaser, our administrative team, the distinguished faculty of LOLHS, the families of our graduates, alumni, members of this fine community, and of course, the class of 2024. Everyone is here tonight to honor and celebrate this milestone in your lives. This night is for you.
I want to thank the parents and families of our graduates. I think I can speak for the administrative team and the faculty when I say that you have been great partners in this journey. May I remind the graduates that the people sitting behind you are your biggest fans. They will be there for you. And believe me, you will need them. Never take for granted their love and support.
Watch how incredibly smart your parents become over the next decade. It turns out that they are pretty skilled at this real-world stuff. Now, I know, these are the same annoying people who mediate arguments with the words, “because I said so”. And never tire of reminding you that “money doesn’t grow on trees”. I mean, who other than your mother can become super worried if you don’t answer her text within two-one hundredths of a second. Who better to embarrass you in front of your friends than your father. But they have seen you at your best and your worst. Either way they summoned their super powers to simultaneously be an Uber driver, chef, and therapist. So, tomorrow, when you begin the next leg on your life’s journey, continue to talk to them and listen to them. They will not charge you for their expertise and most of the time you may even get a free meal and laundry service out of the deal.
Today you leave Lyme-Old Lyme High School with a world class education. You will take that, some new bed sheets, and hopefully a toothbrush as you embark on your next adventure. But I think the most important item that you can pack for your life’s journey are your heroes. Those people who you admire the most for their core values, their work ethic, and their commitment to others. Life inevitably hands us personal setbacks. There will be tough decisions to make. It is during these personal challenges in our lives that our heroes are most likely inspire us. To overcome whatever adversity we’re facing. Heroes lift us up when we are in danger of falling down emotionally, physically, or spiritually.
I believe heroes are made by the paths that they choose not the powers they possess. It’s those choices that inspire us. In addition to my biggest heroes, my parents. mostly for how well I turned out, another personal hero of mine is Mr. Rogers. Everyone’s beloved TV neighbor. Through his television show and life’s work, he chose a path of kindness, and dedicated himself to making a positive impact on the world. He did it by educating us about our differences and emphasizing the common bonds that unite all human beings. I can’t say that I always live up to his expectations, but every day when I tuned in he told me that he liked me just the way I am. Now 50 some years after first watching his show, I still lean on his core values to guide me in my life’s work as a parent and an educator. I was fortunate to meet him on a few occasions. As special as those moments were, I reminiscence about them with regret because I never told him that he was one of my heroes. Not sure I ever told my parents either. So, to be sure this doesn’t happen to you, here is one last performance task before graduating from Lyme-Old Lyme High School.
If you haven’t already done so, identify your heroes.
If they still walk this earth, find a way… call, email, text, tweet, whatever, to tell them that they are your hero and most importantly, tell them why. Trust me. It will be a life changing experience for both of you.
Finally, choose a path, live a life worthy of becoming someone else’s hero.
A hero’s journey is never truly complete. It is a lifelong pursuit of growth, learning, and service. The world needs heroes now more than ever. It needs individuals like you who are willing to stand up for justice, to speak out against inequality, to innovate, and to inspire. It needs your courage, your compassion, and your creativity.
Class of 2024, you are a special group that will inspire the next generation. But it was your work here: Your commitment to excellence, your kindness, and concern for others that have inspired me and many others for a long time. And it’s for that reason I want you to know that you are our heroes.
Never forget that you are a Wildcat for Life. I wish you the best in your journey. Thank you.
Commencement Speaker William (Billy) Rayder
Apart from being the Commencement Speaker, William (Billy) Rayder was also selected by the students as the recipient of the Mildred Sanford Outstanding Educator Award. Rayder was retiring after 49 years service in Lyme-Old Lyme Schools.
Good evening! Ladies, gentlemen, parents, grandparents, Administrators, Board of Education members and, most importantly, the Class of 2024. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Bill Rayder, and I’ve been teaching here for a mere 49 years. In dog years, that’s …well, still a long time.
It is an honor to be selected to speak on your behalf. My parents are honored also, and I know they are up there smiling because they are proud of me and, most importantly, because it’s pay back time. They have you, Class of 2024, to thank for it.
Growing up in Rockaway Beach, Queens, NY, I was the problem child – the middle child. (The sixth of twelve children) I was literally in the middle of everything. I was a tease, the one stirring the pot, the one causing chaos. My motto has always been, “the best defense is a good offense”. Have I changed?
I don’t want you to feel sorry for me, but I have not slept too well since May 15 when Jim approached me about speaking today. I said “yes” right away knowing I would be out of my comfort zone. My daughters have seen me talking to myself while grilling in the backyard. They think I am crazy!
What can I say? Who can I thank? And what do you need to know? I can tell you I need to thank all of the faculty – especially Miss Schreindorfer and Phil Cohen for their 49 years of putting up with me and my antics. Without them, I would not be speaking tonight, I can’t help but think that they see this as a little payback like my parents. Shout out to Bella Ziegler for typing this speech, without her I wouldn’t have known what to do.
Ella Halsey and Kate Mulaney saw me parking on Lyme street today and wanted to know why.
When I started teaching here, gas was 36 cents a gallon, and ‘selfie’ was what you did to your hair in the morning. I’ve taught long enough to see bell-bottoms go out of style, come back into style, and go out of style again. Just like my tennis shorts. I’ve taught some of you, your parents, and even your aunts and uncles. At this point, if anyone needs a family discount on my memoirs, just let me know.
I’ve had over 2,000 driver’s ed students, and not a single one has had an accident under my watch. I think that might be because I wore my lucky socks everyday. Or maybe it’s the brake pedal on my side of the car. In my career, I’ve taught over 20,000 students. That’s a lot of laps around the gym, a lot of health quizzes, and way too many attempts to do k-turns. It’s also a lot of lives touched and memories made.
I have three quotes I would like to share with you. Aristotle says, “Teaching is the highest form of understanding.” What does this mean? We need to make more time to share with others what we have learned. Teach!
The second quote is from the Class of 1990’s valedictorian, Nicole Breault. “Carpe Diem – seize the day!” which, in PE terms, means “go big or go home! ”Go Big!!
The third quote is from anonymous and my favorite quote. “Students might not remember what you taught them, but they will always remember how you treated them.”
As you move on from here, remember to stay active, stay healthy, and always check your mirrors. Congratulations, Class of 2024. Keep making us proud!
One last time, on the count of three, ladies, gentlemen, and people we are out of time!
Honor Essayist Delaney Nelson
As I’m sure Ella, Aggie, and Griffin can attest, there’s no easy way to write a speech that imparts some deep lesson, or sums up our high school experience. But I want to start by saying a big congratulations to all of us, and to the people who raised us for seeing us to this point in our journey. In order to really thank them, I want to talk about what they’ve given me, and what I can possibly give you.
In eighth grade, my mom gave me a book that I’ve brought here with me today. So everyone look under your chairs! No I’m just kidding – this isn’t Oprah. But, I am going to walk you through the story, so there’s no need to worry. The book is called, the Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse, and I would summarize the plot for you, but there really isn’t one.
It’s more a collection of lessons imparted by a somewhat nonlinear story as the friends journey together. And really, I think that’s what life is. Teaching and learning from others.
On one of the opening pages the boy asks the mole, “what do you think success is?” to which the mole replies, “to love.” As we’ve come to the final weeks of our senior year, it’s obvious that we’ve realized how important our relationships are. So though LOLHS felt competitive at times and we haven’t always gotten along, I think we should all feel so lucky that we have had the pleasure of growing up surrounded by love from the people we’ve spent most of our lives with.
As the boy and the mole move further from that familiar love, the mole imparts yet another piece of wisdom: “Most of the old moles I know wish they had listened less to their fears and more to their dreams.” So as we prepare to partake in that same separation from consistency, I encourage you all to focus on what it is that you want, not what might stand in the way. I’m sure Mr. Rayder is terrified to walk 500 miles in a foreign country, but as he’s said many times, “it’s been a lifelong dream,” and I really do believe he should be the example. To him and to you all, I think we’d all benefit from listening to the mole as he addresses the unknown, “it’s the wild. Don’t fear it.”
Eventually the mole and the boy encounter the fox, who joins their story. Instead of fearing the fox’s threats, the mole frees him from the trap, and invites him along. The mole once again seizes the opportunity for advice stating, “one of our greatest freedoms is how we react to things.” I didn’t expect to have to ask my mom to be the mock trial coach, but we ended up making it to nationals. I’m sure Mr. Wilson didn’t foresee having to teach at the middle school, but he has embraced it wholeheartedly. I imagine Mrs. Dewey didn’t picture herself going from the preschool to the highschool, but she has done so impeccably. While all these scenarios have been unexpected, they’ve all had successful outcomes, all because of how these individuals handled the change, the transition.
So when you have a roommate issue, or you’re homesick, or you’re struggling to adjust to your new phase of life, remember that your power lies in your response. With that sentiment in mind, the horse joins the group as the final member. The conversation begins to flow as the boy asks, “what is the bravest thing you’ve ever said?” The horse’s response is simple, “help.”
Throughout my time at the high school I’ve seen hordes of students in Mrs. Geletkanyzc’s room the morning before a test, scattered around her numerous white boards trying to get as much help as possible. I participated in many an AP Chem review session, where Mrs. Kelley sat patiently as we unloaded our questions on her. There is not a teacher in this building that wouldn’t do so for any kid who was struggling, I think it is a remarkable breed of people who make up the Old Lyme faculty, and I think we can all learn from the example they’ve set for us. In fact I would venture to say that we’ll encounter many people who are struggling in one way or another, and the courage to ask for help or to give it to someone who needs it is what makes us strong.
Expanding on that point the horse adds, “sometimes…sometimes just getting up and carrying on is brave and magnificent.” And this is not a lesson I’m trying to impart, but rather a recognition. As a grade of 110, we’ve all seen each other at our worst. The days we couldn’t come to school in anything other than our pajamas, asking our parents to bring whatever we’ve left at home, and sliding in late to second period. However, there is the mutual understanding that most people are trying their best. That their perseverance is commendable, respectable, and not the least bit shameful. And though sometimes it can feel that way, when it’s your day that’s particularly dark, the mole reminds us that “the greatest illusion is that life should be perfect.”
As they go along, the friends come upon a pair of swans, which prompts the boy to ask, “how do they look so together and perfect?” to which the horse responds, “there’s a lot of frantic paddling going on beneath.” Despite the fact that we’ve all been that person asleep at their desk or hidden in the bathroom, it’s hard to remember that everyone else has been there too. Academic, athletic, personal, all kinds of successes, are not always measured by how difficult they were to achieve, but rather how perfect the people who achieve them seem.
Often the only way to quell this constant desire for comparison, is to focus inwards. And for the boy and hopefully someday for ourselves, the answer is quite comforting. The mole asks the boy, “what’s your best discovery?” and the boy replies, “that I am enough as I am.” As humans, we are wired to constantly be striving for more, but that urge dwindles when there’s an acceptance that we’re enough, or at least the conscious effort to believe it.
At the close of the book “the end” is crossed out, and instead “look at how far we’ve come” is written across the page.
I’ll be honest that I’ve cried a lot of tears over today and what seems like the end of an era, but this little book from middle school has reminded me that this is a testament to my progress and yours, a measure of how we’ve grown and how far we’ve come.
So with that I’ll leave you with one of the illustrations that did not make the story itself. The final page features the horse watching over the boy, as he says “just take this step…the horizon will look after itself.”
I wish you all luck with your next step. Thank you.
Salutatorian Ella Curtis-Reardon
I can still vividly remember my first day of school in this town. Middle school, especially one in the small town of Old Lyme, was entirely foreign to me. The early wake up to catch the morning school bus was fueled by nerves and excitement – mostly nerves. I walked around the halls on that first day with such trepidation and reserve, but looking back, I did not have any reason to be intimidated or shy. The girls who stood next to me in the ice breaker game during gym class, in which we collectively stepped to the side of the line that preferred the Red Sox over the Yankees, are now people with whom I have played seven consecutive years of soccer. The girl from my homeroom who was the first person to start a conversation with me has been one of my best friends through it all. The science teacher, Mrs. Murray, who made the class laugh, continued to be an entertaining, energetic highlight of each of my days. My sixth grade year was also the middle school principal, Mr. Ambruso’s, first year in the district, but we made it through, and now I love mornings in which I am able to stop and catch up with him in the parking lot before I walk into school.
Lyme Old Lyme Middle School was so good to me and I am forever thankful for the positive, welcoming environment in which I grew up with my closest friends. This time around, entering high school, I was excited for the journey because I knew that I would have the strongest support system. And I did.
Each time I dragged Mrs. Geletkanycz into her classroom before school to help me prepare for a math test, she did so with a smile on her face – and a Dunkin coffee in her hand. I love getting book recommendations from my English teachers. I love seeing how involved Mr. Lillie will be in spirit week. I love getting to know the custodial staff due to always needing them to unlock classrooms for me when I leave things behind. I will not forget the cheerful visits from Kona, Hildie’s therapy dog. Or the feeling of community in the commons right after school when every athlete is hustling to get ready for their practices. Or the welcoming arms with which Ms. Mass has made her classroom a revolving door for students to congregate and pass time before andafter school.
Old Lyme and Lyme-Old Lyme High School are so much more than a town and a school. They are a home. I have felt at home from the very beginning and I recognize how fortunate I am to be able to say that. Administration oversees hundreds of kids each day and manages to get to know each one of them. Thank you for making me feel seen. My teachers have gone out of their way to ensure my success and well-being. Thank you for making me feel heard. My classmates have been an amazing group of people – now young adults – to grow up with and I could not be more proud of every single one of you. Thank you for making me feel loved. I cannot wait to see what you do and cheer you on in your endeavors.
The golden rule as we know it is to treat others the way you want to be treated. As my four years at this high school and seven years in this town come to a close, I know that I have developed a standard for the way that I want to treat people. The solicitude, endearment, and compassion that I received from this community inspires me to do the same for others wherever I go. I truly believe that the kindness and support from you all is what enabled my growth and successes. So I urge you to take this feeling of love and gratitude for your family, your friends, your school – and look to replicate it for everyone else in your life.
The sense of home we’ve found here will always be a part of who we are. It will be our anchor, our reminder of the strength we possess and the support we can always return to. Although we will carry a piece of this home with us wherever we go, what better to do than to make each place feel like a home to someone else? Cultivate empathy. Cherish your friendships. Make people feel welcomed. And go out of your way to be kind. Thank you, and congratulations everyone.
Valedictorian Agatha Hunt
First, I’d like to thank parents and family, the teachers, and of course, the class of 2024, for being here today. It’s a privilege to speak in front of you all.
This is not my first graduation. At risk of sounding big headed, I did successfully graduate from 5th and 8th grade, so I’m pretty experienced with all of this. However, this is my first time writing a speech for a graduation, so I asked for a lot of advice from friends and family members. Many people, and this may be a reflection of their lack of confidence in my public speaking, told me to keep it brief, which I will. My mom told me that I don’t need to worry, because everyone is only here for Mr. Rayder’s speech anyway. Thanks mom.
When I was in elementary school, I would go over to my friend’s house, and we would bike or razor scooter up and down her street. There was this specific mailbox, shaped like a duck, that we weren’t allowed to go past, because once beyond it we were out of earshot of our parents and into danger.
I recently drove past this mailbox again – this time in a car, not on a bike – and in the nostalgic state of mind that I’ve been in over the past few weeks, the significance of it struck me. We have gone so far beyond the mailbox, and yet we haven’t even noticed. We’d taken this great step in our lives back in elementary school, this shedding of protective parents and this leap into independence and semi-adulthood – I wondered, how had we missed it?
I imagine that a lot of us here today, students and parents alike, have experienced something similar, some milestone that we realize years later that we overlooked. It comes from this central contradiction, something that I’ve struggled with all throughout high school, in which we are told to be present and live in the moment, yet everything that we do seems to build to this point, to graduating high school and choosing our future path. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, the idea that we might miss something important and irreplaceable in our lives because we just weren’t paying attention, but over these last few months of high school, I have begun to realize that we don’t need to fear missing the important things in our lives, that what is really valuable is impossible to overlook. It latches onto us as we grow up without us even realizing it.
This past Sunday, Lauren Rahr, who most of us here at Lyme-Old Lyme High School know as an amazing geometry teacher and a record-breaking tennis coach, told the tennis team, of which I am a part, that after six years of teaching and four incredible years of coaching, she would be moving to Massachusetts to live with her fiancé. I speak for everyone who knows Ms. Rahr when I say she will be missed deeply.
Ms. Rahr’s leaving caused me to reflect on what she has taught me and how I have changed as a result of knowing her, and the effect that she has had on my life has been profound. Her constant positivity has taught me to be a kinder person. Her encouragement has caused me to become more confident, and the environment she creates reminds me of the importance of inclusivity and compassion. Did I spend every moment that I was on the courts or in the classroom with Ms. Rahr reflecting on the lessons I was being taught? Of course not. I didn’t have to. Those lessons are with me now, and will be with me always, even after we both move on from Lyme-Old Lyme High School.
I’m sure that every person here today can think back to someone who changed their lives for the better, whether it be a teacher who believed in you, a classmate who was kind to you, or a friend who was there for you. With these memorable people and moments are hundreds of others that we did not notice at the time but are a part of who we are today.
The things in our lives that change us, that mean the most to us, are not the exams we take, the classes we pass or fail, or the accolades we receive. In fact, we barely notice the most influential components of our lives, the people around us, until they leave us.
Class of 2024, the point of this speech is not necessarily to encourage you to thank and reflect on those around you who have made an impact on you, although of course, you can and should. It is mostly to assure you that although in taking this next step, we may feel more alone than we ever have before, we carry with us the lessons and support from the people who have meant something to us throughout our lives. Some of you may leave this school vowing to never come back. Some of you may have already begun unfollowing your classmates on Instagram. I’m sorry to tell you, but you can’t escape us. We are who we are because of the people we have grown with these past few years.
When we stepped past the duck mailbox years and years ago, still hand in hand with the people we’d known all of our lives, we might not have taken a moment to reflect on the milestone or the lessons we had learned together. We might not have noticed that we are defined and built by the people around us. Today, as we graduate, remember that although we may leave behind those people, we take with us the things they taught us. Class of 2024, whatever our futures may hold, we won’t be alone. We will always carry with us the lessons from the best people in our lives.
The Lyme-Old Lyme High School Band played various pieces during the ceremony, including the Alma Mater.
Sincere thanks to Michele Dickey and Troy Christopher who together are responsible for all the photos in this essay.
OLD LYME— Yesterday morning, the big question was, “Is it on?” The weather was not being entirely co-operative and no one was sure if Old Lyme’s traditional Memorial Day parade would happen.
But the man in charge, Tony Hendricks, made his decision … and what a great one it was! He said that, despite the inclement weather, the parade must go on …
The Old Lyme Board of Selectmen comprising Selectman Jim Lampos (left), First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker (second from left) and Selectwoman Jude Read (right) enthusiastically marched down Lyme St. with State Rep. Devin Carney (R-23rd, second from right)
The Fife and Drum Corps played their pipes.
The Future Firefighters of Old Lyme were out in force.
The Lyme-Old Lyme High School Techno-Ticks displayed their skills.
Old Lyme’s Engine #1 looked resplendent.
The Old Lyme Fire Department walked proudly in a solemn line.
Fire equipment of yesteryear found a place in the parade.
With its lights flashing in celebration, this Old Lyme Ambulance took its spot in the parade.
Members of the Lymes’ Senior Center performed an impressive dance routine.
At the other end of the age spectrum, this young lady was clearly thrilled to be riding in the parade!
Phoebe Griffin Noyes aka Mary Dangremond represented her namesake Library with her usual flair
This young man delegated the hard work to his dad while he rode in comfort.
The Class S 2024 State Basketball Champions from Lyme-Old Lyme High School took a well-earned victory march down Lyme Street.
Little Leaguers swapped their bats for banners for the day.
Softballers cheerfully waved a patriotic flag.
Bruce Noyes drove his treasured army vehicle with wife Tammy and veterans atop.
Lyme Fire Department featured in the festivities.
What a cheery wave from this EMT and her canine companion!
Old Lyme Historical Society (OLHS) Board Member Edie Twining (left) sat with other OLHS members on the familiar, bright blue truck.
The Lyme-Old Lyme Lions proudly declared their mission of, “We Serve.”
The Old Lyme Land Trust’s truck was appropriately festooned with trees.
Talking of trees, here’s a great smile from one of our Forestry team!
This vintage automobile drew appreciative applause.
These Brownies demonstrated the meaning of teamwork.
Scouts proudly carried the Stars and Stripes as well as their own banner.
Lyme Ambulance joined the throng heading to Duck River Cemetery.
Arthur “Skip” Beebe was full of smiles as he rode in well-deserved style.
Nightingale’s Ukele Band added a musical touch.
Then came the ceremony at the cemetery when speeches were given, ‘Taps’ was played, heads were bowed, prayers were said, names were read, bells were rung, and salutes were given.
The Meeting Room at Old Lyme’s Memorial Town Hall was packed for the April 29 Special Meeting to discuss the Tantummaheag Landing proposed draft Memorandum of Understanding.
OLD LYME—At the March 29 Special Meeting in the Old Lyme Town Hall, the Old Lyme (OL) Board of Selectmen gave the public an opportunity to comment on the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Draft between the Town of Old Lyme and the owners of 12 and 19 Tantummaheag Rd., George Frampton and Carla Darista Frampton.
A press release issued April 15, by the Old Lyme First Selectman’s Office described the MOU as an attempt, “to move toward a more final resolution of the current dispute,” and noted that, “The BOS and the Framptons have entered into an interim agreement for the next year regarding use of the so-called Landing.” Read this article titled, “Introduction of Draft ‘Memo of Understanding’ by Town of Old Lyme, Owners Moves Tantummaheag Landing Dispute Into ‘Less-Divisive Environment” by Olwen Logan and published April 21 on LymeLine.com for more details of the MOU, including both its full text, and the background to its creation.
More than 80 people attended the meeting and the majority of those who commented spoke against the proposal while a smaller number spoke in support.
The meeting ended with Selectwoman Jude Read (R) calling for a vote on whether to approve the MOU, which Selectman Jim Lampos (D) seconded.
Read then voted against the motion and Lampos, who had been the prime negotiator of the agreement with the Framptons, supported it. It was left to First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker (D) to break the tie.
Contrary to some expectations, since both Shoemaker and Lampos are Democrats and appeared to have supported bringing the MOU forward to the meeting, Shoemaker voted against the motion.
Later in the week, we asked Shoemaker via text why she had voted against the motion to approve the MOU on Monday night. She responded via email saying, “As I stated on Monday evening, I thought there were two strong components of the MOU draft. The one-year time term with the option to renew and the understanding that neither side was ceding any future rights or claims were positive.”
She added, “I believe the other concessions did not provide additional benefits to the town,” concluding, “I am also concerned that this could set precedent for future land disputes.”
We also asked George Frampton for his reaction to the meeting. He replied via email, “It is inexplicable to us that the Selectmen would vote against a common sense proposal to move toward a resolution of our dispute with the Town, after having (1) charged one of the board’s own members [Selectman Jim Lampos] (an expert in local historical archival documents) to investigate the true facts and make recommendations, then (2) authorizing him to work with the Town lawyer and us on that solution to negotiate a temporary “cooling off” period and full pedestrian access [along with] discussions the Town has never before allowed to us, while not giving up a single iota of town rights or claims while protecting our safety and security, and finally (3) approving bringing the MOU forward [to the Town.]”
He noted, “Instead of moving toward resolution, the Board has seems to have gone backwards three years.”
We asked both Shoemaker and Frampton where the Tantummaheag issue goes from here. On this, there seems to be some consensus.
Frampton said, “We hope the Board will reconsider this own-goal error and reconstruct a way to work together with us.”
Shoemaker responded, “We will be organizing a small group of town residents to further work on this issue. Multiple people have already communicated that they would be willing to serve on this committee. Mr. Frampton indicated to me after the meeting that he would be willing to work with me as well.”
She concluded, “I will provide more information on this next week.”
MOU to be Discussed at 4/29 OL Special Town Meeting
OLD LYME—At the Old Lyme Board of Selectmen’s (BOS) meeting held Monday, April 15, Selectman Jim Lampos (D) introduced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding the ongoing and protracted dispute over public use of “Tantummaheag Landing” between the Town of Old Lyme and the owners of 12 and 19 Tantummaheag Rd., George T. Frampton, Jr. and Carla D’Arista.
A press release issued April 15, by the Old Lyme First Selectman’s Office describes the MOU as an attempt, “to move toward a more final resolution of the current dispute,” and notes that, “The BOS and the Framptons have entered into an interim agreement for the next year regarding use of the so-called Landing.”
The press release states, “The Framptons will continue to permit pedestrian access between the hours of 8 am and sundown, but no vehicular access of any kind will be permitted. Parking for at least two to three cars is available just outside the property on a paved turnaround area. The Town will enforce these limitations and will assist the Framptons as necessary in doing so.”
It continues, “The Framptons will erect a sign on a stone pillar stating “12” on the top of the pillar and “Tantummaheag Landing” going down the pillar,” adding, “The Framptons will maintain access for pedestrians to the river and the ice-pond in essentially the current natural condition.”
Finally, the release notes, “The agreement also provides for the parties to seek in good faith to engage a third-party advisor or mediator at modest cost to facilitate further discussions, and for Mr. Frampton to make a presentation to each member of the BOS separately on what official town land records and other official documents show about Tantummaheag Landing.”
In a statement issued to members of the press (see full text below), Frampton maintains, “While we are the owners in fee simple of Tantummaheag Landing and maintain that the Town’s own official documents conclusively establish that it has no public access rights of any kind …”
Asked in a phone conversation with LymeLine on April 16, to comment on the MOU, OL First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker (D) said, “Jim Lampos did an amazing job, working many hours, to negotiate an agreement with the Framptons.” She explained that, although both sides in the dispute still are not in agreement, the tone of the discussion has changed dramatically and a new attitude of, “Let’s work it all out,” now prevails.
Shoemaker stressed that at this point, the MOU has simply been introduced and subsequently, “The townspeople will be allowed to speak on it.” Asked by LymeLine whether the Town Attorneys Suisman Shapiro had viewed the MOU, Shoemaker responded that they, “Had had eyes on it.”
No discussion on the MOU was permitted at the meeting on Monday evening.
Shoemaker stated at the April 15 meeting that the MOU represents, “A great starting place,” and that she was, “Eager to hear what our residents think.”
On Friday, April 19, Shoemaker announced in her weekly newsletter, “We have scheduled aspecial Board of Selectmen meeting for April 29 at 5:30 p.m.” She notes, “The only agenda item at this meeting will be the MOU. If you would like to attend the meeting and let us know your thoughts, we would appreciate hearing from you. If you cannot attend, please feel free to send an email to the Selectman’s office, and we will make sure all selectmen receive a copy.”
The full text of Selectman Jim Lampos’s statement introducing the Tantummaheag Landing MOU, which he read at the April 15 BOS meeting, is as follows:
“The dispute concerning public access to, and ownership of Tantummaheag Landing between George Frampton and Carla D’Arista and the Town of Old Lyme is now in its fourth year. The controversy became increasingly contentious, stretching over two terms of the previous Board of Selectmen. It was presented to this Board as a top priority when we first took office four months ago. I am happy to announce today that we have an agreement with the Framptons to ensure public access.
We understood that this controversy has had a chilling effect on public access of Tantummaheag Landing. Seeking to avoid conflict, or being unsure about its status, neighbors and other town residents have refrained from visiting. With this agreement, we restore public confidence and comfort in enjoying the Landing for pedestrians who seek to view the river and cove, enjoy the natural landscape of Tantummaheag Brook, or view the annual swallow migration on Goose Island, just offshore.
This agreement restores pubic access to the Landing from 8am to sundown, with essentially the same conditions the public was accustomed to before this controversy began. The only exception is that there will be no vehicular access to the Landing, and the potential parking space or two that had been identified to be created in previous plans has been moved 300’ east to the paved turnaround just outside of the property gates.
Vehicular access, which was never formally marked or established at the Landing, has proved troublesome in the past with vehicles needing to use the grounds of the private residence as a turnaround. There is no room for cars to pass each other necessitating vehicles to back up the drive, and the narrow one lane road presents a potential danger if one or more cars have to share the unpaved surface with pedestrians. The area that had been identified as a potential parking area is also unimproved with a steep drop into the brook at its edge. Improvements necessary to make this an official parking area would require significant sitework, environmental impacts and permitting. Thus, making this path to the river a pedestrian-only zone makes practical sense as a matter of public safety and in enhancing the quiet enjoyment of those seeking to access the Landing. Parking will now be approximately 150 additional steps away, but it will be on a paved, safe surface for ease of access.
While Tantummaheag Landing has never been a desirable kayak put-in, with several yards of muck and mire between the Landing and the open waters of the river, kayakers are still free to wheel their kayaks down to the river on a non-motorized cart. Backing a car down to the river for kayak or boat access was always impractical, necessitating a significant portage even in the best of conditions. Preventing vehicle access will add another 175 or so steps to the kayak portage, but loading and unloading of the kayak from the vehicle will be in a much safer location. A CT Examiner article from January 13, 2021 quotes a member of the Harbor Commission as saying their kayak committee “did not rate the landing as a high usability site”. Another member of the Harbor Commission is quoted as being seriously concerned about pedestrian safety with vehicles backing up the driveway.
It is important to note that this agreement is for one year only, and it is explicitly stated that neither side gives up any stated or implied rights. The agreement reaches a common-sense accord on immediately restoring traditional public access, and seeks to de-conflict a situation that had grown increasingly contentious resulting in a confusing and chaotic situation for the public, and division within the town as expressed in numerous press articles. The Framptons further agree that the current level of landscaping will be maintained and no further plantings from the March 31, 2024 baseline, as documented in photographs, will impede access.
Finally, some have argued that this agreement will present a slippery slope whereby comparable town assets will be called into question. This is not the case, as all other comparable assets already have well established access points, signage, and parking areas. Tantummaheag never had a formally-established parking area. Further, the dispute in this case is grounded in specific citations of town records and associated deeds as denoted in the opening statement of the agreement, and a protocol is established by which the two sides will examine the issue regarding ownership in a mutually agreed upon mediation.
The primary purpose of this agreement is to guarantee public access, reduce conflict and acrimony, and create an atmosphere where a reasoned assessment and potential permanent resolution can take place. For both sides, all options remain available to them and all rights are retained. “
George Frampton also shared a written statement with members of the press present at the April 15 BOS meeting, and also LymeLine. His statement, dated April 15, reads in full as follows:
“Over the past three months, following exhaustive research of official town documents and historic records, and interviews with relevant stakeholders including town officials, our neighbors and others, a representative of the Town of Old Lyme has engaged us in substantive discussions in a mutually respectful fashion with the goal of finding a satisfactory way forward in resolving our dispute over the public use of Tantummaheag Landing.
We have reached an interim agreement, lasting at least one year, concerning public access.
While we are the owners in fee simple of Tantummaheag Landing and maintain that the Town’s own official documents conclusively establish that it has no public access rights of any kind, we agree to allow pedestrian access along our back driveway to the Connecticut River from 8 am to sunset and maintain the Landing in its current condition as a pleasant natural environment .
No motorized vehicles will be permitted except for medical and law enforcement emergencies and the Town will enforce this arrangement.
While neither party cedes any rights they claim for themselves in this agreement, we have established a framework by which we hope further discussions move toward a resolution of our dispute. Both parties believe that in this less-divisive environment discussions to move toward a more permanent resolution of all issues are likely to be more fruitful.”
The text of the draft MOU reads in full as follows:
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE TOWN OF OLD LYME AND GEORGE FRAMPTON/CARLA D’ARISTA CONCERNING TANTUMMAHEAG LANDING
The Board of Selectmen of the Town of Old Lyme set forth in this agreement with George Frampton and Carla D’Arista of 12 & 19 Tantummaheag Rd, Old Lyme the following terms with regards to public access to Tantummaheag Landing, so called, a parcel lying between 12 & 19 Tantummaheag Rd as described in the Frampton/D’Arista (hereinafter Framptons) deeds, BOOK 437, PAGE 557 AND BOOK 437, PAGE 575.
WHEREAS, the Town of Old Lyme maintains that Tantummaheag Landing is a public roadway, and WHEREAS the Framptons contend that the Town has no public access rights since they were extinguished in 1727 by the Town’s earlier agreement in 1713, BOOK 2, PAGE 305 (Jan. 2, 1713), and in any event that Tantummaheag Landing is not a public highway, the Town of Old Lyme, acting through its Board of Selectmen as the traffic authority for the town, and the Framptons, enter into the following agreement.
1. It is agreed that public access to the river and the ice pond along Tantummaheag Landing will be allowed for pedestrians only, between the hours of 8 am and sunset.
2. Except for emergency vehicles, motorized vehicles will not be allowed in Tantummaheag Landing. The Framptons will maintain the current level of landscaping and accessibility for pedestrians, but if they fail to do so the Town will notify them and they will promptly restore that landscaping and accessibility.
3. Parking for pedestrian access will be available outside of the stone gates at the top of Tantummaheag Landing, on property owned by the Town of Old Lyme.
4. A stone pillar inscribed with the number 12 and the words Tantummaheag Landing running vertically down the stone pillar will be erected by the Framptons
5. The terms of this agreement will be for one year from the signing of this agreement. This agreement will renew annually for a one-year term on the anniversary date of the signing of this agreement, unless the Town of Old Lyme or the Framptons notify the other, in writing, of their decision to not renew the agreement at least 30 days before the automatic renewal date of the agreement.
6. It is understood that this agreement in no way impacts the rights retained by any party, nor does either party cede any future exercise of rights or claims. Moreover, the terms of this agreement do not constitute any admissions by any party as to the terms or nomenclature used herein, nor may either party use this agreement in any legal proceeding regarding the legal status of Tantummaheag Landing
It is further agreed: 7. Upon execution of this agreement, a good faith effort will be made to find an impartial, mutually-agreed upon mediator from the community, at little or modest cost, to hear arguments from both the Town of Old Lyme and Mr. Frampton/Ms. D’Arista for the purpose of rendering a non-binding opinion on the status of Tantummaheag Landing and public access.
In light of threatened litigation, Mr. Frampton will be granted an opportunity to explain his case before the Board of Selectmen as a whole in executive session, or if he chooses, with members of the Board individually. It is agreed that the Town’s legal representatives will be permitted to attend these meetings, but will not be required to do so.
