On Saturday, July 15, celebrity chef Jacques Pepin, standing at right, cut the ribbon for the official opening of ‘The Curry Queen’ restaurant in Old Saybrook. The restaurant is owned by Lyme resident Nalini Srinivasan, pictured left. Photo by H. Margules.
LYME/OLD SAYBROOK — A new restaurant, owned and managed by Lyme resident Nalini Srinivasan, has opened in Old Saybrook. Describing itself as focused on homestyle, authentic Indian cuisine,The Curry Queen, located at 93 Elm St., offers both dine-in and take-out options.
Asked to describe her menu, Srinivasan responded by email saying, “The menu is, at present, a simple one with everyday offerings such as curries, [both] vegetarian and non-vegetarian, specialities from the Tandoor, and small plates of street food samples.”
She added that exciting new additions are planned to the menu shortly but they are still under wraps at this time.
Srinivasan explains, “The intent is to expose our clientele to different regional Indian Food, including Anglo Indian Cuisine.” She also notes that an application for a liquor permit is “in the works.”
Opening a restaurant is a high-risk business. We inquired why Srinivasan felt drawn to do so after enjoying a successful career in finance. She said, “I saw a niche market opportunity. I wanted to reach out to the local community to spread the word [and have] a small business experience. I enjoy the creativity of it and anticipate good things for the future.”
When we asked whather hopes were for the restaurant, her business acumen shone through in her reply. Shrivasan stated her objectives are, “To achieve targeted Business Plan Goals and to assimilate into the economic environment of the area.”
A particularly interesting and endearing aspect of her business is Srinivasan’s decision to employ the Afghan refugee father of five, who is currently living in Old Lyme. The Afghani family is being supported by the Lyme-Old Lyme Refugee and Resettlement Committee.
A Hindu prayer service was held at ‘The Curry Queen’ to celebrate the opening of the restaurant. Photo by H. Margules.
Why had she chosen to take on this gentleman, who clearly did not have the usual references to apply for a chef’s job due to the extremely challenging conditions surrounding his evacuation from Afghanistan?
Srinivasan replied pragmatically, “Because I thought he would have a natural flair for using the Tandoor, which is a common feature in our (Afghan and Indian) cooking methods; … I thought I could use his help while he helps himself to settle in and because I thought we could contribute to the [overarching] cause of resettling a [refugee] family.”
Lymes Creative Arts students focus on their designs, which will ultimately be seen on artisan tiles. All photos submitted.
OLD LYME — “Tremendously successful!” That’s how Lilywork Artisan Tile founders and owners Paul and Esther Halferty sum up their participation in this year’s Lymes Creative Arts program. Their custom-built tile studio is located in the center of Old Lyme at 56 Lyme St. and is the creative endeavor of the husband and wife duo.
The summer program, supported by mini-grants and materials provided by Lymes Creative Arts, aimed to provide transformative and accessible hands-on arts experiences to teenagers in the Lyme and Old Lyme communities.
One of the summer program participants proudly displays her finished work.
The Halferty’s took on the role of instructors for this summer’s program. They guided a group of 11 enthusiastic students through the process of creating tile mosaics from start to finish.
Over the course of several weeks, these talented teens immersed themselves in the world of artisan tile making, acquiring invaluable skills and hopefully forming lasting friendships with their fellow classmates.
Summer students transfer their designs to clay.
Under the guidance of instructors Paul and Esther, the students embarked on an inspiring artistic journey. From shaping clay and designing unique templates to mastering the art of mosaic cutting and glazing techniques, the students gained some insight into a day in the life of a tile artisan.
As the program drew to a close, students were eagerly anticipating the final stage of setting and grouting their colorful creations.
Happily displaying her eye-catching tile created during the summer program.
Beyond the acquisition of artistic skills, this Lymes Creative Arts summer program fostered an environment of camaraderie and friendship. The students collaborated closely with their peers, forging new connections and cherishing the opportunity to share their artistic pursuits.
The emphasis on celebrating individual artistic expression allowed each student to gain confidence in their unique artistic journey, regardless of their skill level.
Students hard at work under the watchful eye of Esther Halferty.
Paul Halferty commented, “As artisan tile makers and instructors, it has been an absolute joy to be a part of the Lymes Creative Arts summer program.”
He continued, “We have witnessed the incredible impact of art in the lives of these talented teenagers, as they not only honed their skills but also discovered new ways to express themselves creatively. The program has been a win-win for both student and teacher and we are grateful to have been a part of their artistic journey.”
The resounding success of the Lymes Creative Arts program can be attributed to their unwavering commitment and dedication to its core objectives. By offering affordable or free programming, Lymes Creative Arts ensured that aspiring artists from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds had access to these transformative experiences.
Painting a piece of clay during the summer program.
The hands-on arts opportunities provided an outlet for the students to manage stress and find fulfillment through artistic expression. The comprehensive range of art forms, including visual arts, craft making, literary arts, and performing arts, catered to a variety of interests, allowing each student to explore their passion fully.
Esther Halferty said, “We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Lymes Creative Arts for entrusting us with this remarkable opportunity to nurture the artistic talents of local teenagers.”
She added, “We also extend our appreciation to the Old Lyme community for their unwavering support throughout the program.”
Esther Halferty gives advice to a student during the Lymes Creative Arts summer program.
The couple acknowledges the invaluable funding provided by the American Rescue Plan, which made these transformative experiences possible for aspiring young artists in the area.
The story of Lilywork begins at Moravian Pottery and Tile Work, a living history museum in Bucks County, Pa.
Recently back from a year in Turkey, Esther started an apprenticeship at the Tile Works in the Fall of 2005. Esther came to learn the Tile Work’s traditional tile-making techniques, as well as, to create work inspired by her love of printmaking, architecture, and tile patterns seen during her time abroad.
Creativity shines through in this striking tile.
Paul, meanwhile, was working at the Tile Works as mold-maker, ceramist, and teacher.
One year later they were married … and Lilywork Artisan Tile was born.
Beautiful tiles created by Lilywork Artisan Tile. Each tile is unique.
Today, every tile is pressed by hand in Old Lyme. Because every Lilywork backsplash and custom fireplace is made by hand, no two are exactly alike. Every tile carries a story that lends meaning and authenticity to every surface on which they are placed.
Lilywork tiles are inspired by the Halferty’s love of travel and traditional design. Lilywork designs are not cutting-edge statements of current fashion, but rather a blending of what has been handed down by craftsmen and designers of the past. Paul and Esther strive to create designs and colors that have relevance across cultures and centuries.
Samples of work by Lilywork Artisan Tile grace the walls of the studio.
Over the years, the Halferty’s worked closely with homeowners, designers, and builders to bring their dreams and visions to life. Their clients come to them seeking something different and unique.
As the Halferty’s reflect on the success of the Lymes Creative Arts summer program, they remain steadfast in their commitment to fostering accessible and enriching artistic opportunities for the youth in their community. With their artisan expertise and unwavering passion, the couple eagerly anticipates future endeavors and the positive impact they will continue to have on the lives of aspiring young artists.
Learning the skills of an ancient art.
For more information about Lilywork Artisan Tile and their involvement in the Lymes Creative Arts program, visit www.lilyworktile.com or contact Paul Halferty at 860-865-5933 or lilyworktile@gmail.com.
Editor’s Note: This article is based in part on a press release issued by ‘Lilywork Artisan Tile.‘
Attorney Kyle Zrenda of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Law.
OLD LYME/NEW LONDON — Old Lyme resident and Suisman Shapiro Attorney Kyle Zrenda has been recognized as a “New Leader in the Law” by the Connecticut Law Tribune’s 2023 New England Legal Awards. The first-ever New England Legal Awards has expanded the field to include attorneys and firms from beyond Connecticut, including many in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and other states, making the competition exceptionally intense.
Atty. Zrenda has quickly established a strong reputation throughout eastern Connecticut by fighting for people who have been harmed by negligent motorists, property owners, and medical providers.
As a member of the bars of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Court and the Mohegan Gaming Disputes Court, he also represents people who have been injured at the Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods casinos.
This decision will have implications across the state for years to come and will help ensure claimants with legitimate malpractice claims are not bounced out of Court on certain technicalities.
Since 2017, Atty. Zrenda has been recognized by Super Lawyers® as a “Rising Star” in the area of personal injury law, and he has also been recognized by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Lawyers in America – “Ones to Watch” since 2021.
Earlier this year, Atty. Zrenda and his colleague secured a monumental victory in the Connecticut Supreme Court, which overturned the trial court’s dismissal of their client’s medical malpractice case. In a unanimous decision, the Court reversed more than 10 years of precedent.
In another recent victory, Atty. Zrenda’s client slipped on a wet floor, did not fall, but suffered a twisting injury to his back while holding himself up. An interesting complication was that the client had a car accident several months earlier and suffered a back injury. He was still in active treatment at the time of the slip. Nonetheless, the jury returned a verdict of $284,514.
Editor’s Notes: i) Suisman Shapiro is the largest law firm in eastern Connecticut, providing residents and businesses from New Haven to Providence with a full range of legal services. The firm was established more than 75 years ago and is firmly rooted in the community. For more information visit suismanshapiro.com or call (800) 499-0145.
ii) This article is based in part on a press release issued by Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Law.
Editor’s Note: We would like to express sincere thanks to our onsite photographers who contributed all these wonderful photos:- Michele Dickey, Cheryl Poirier and Suzanne Thompson.
OLD LYME — Humidity may have been high but so were people’s spirits at Saturday’s Old Lyme Midsummer Festival.
Photo by C. Poirier.
Artisans of all types were out on the grounds of the Lyme Art Association.
Photo by M. Dickey.
Some sold painted shells — these beauties are by Pinky Murphy, who collects the shells along beaches all the way from Old Lyme to Cape Cod, and then hand-paints them.
Photo by C. Poirier.
Others sold their paintings …
Photo by C.Poirier.
Intellectual abilities of all ages were challenged at the Hands On-Minds On event at the Old Lyme Inn. The photo above shows Heather Corbula of CT Audubon engaging with a young visitor.
Photo by C. Poirier.
The Car Show hosted by the Lyme-Old Lyme Lions at the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center, formerly the Bee and Thistle Inn, was a major attraction of the Festival.
Tisha Kirk of the Old Lyme EMS discussed the vital role of the organization — and much more — with folk of all ages.
Photo by M. Dickey.
The newly-formed Lyme Artisans Guild drew a great deal of interest throughout the day. Michaelle Pearson, who stands behind the table at left, was selling her beautiful, handmade silver jewelry.
Photo by S. Thompson.
Heather Corbula of CT Audubon was kept busy at the Hands On-Minds On event with a constant stream of young visitors.
Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library Director Katie Huffman cheerfully greeted participants during the Hands On-Minds On event.
It was all-go on the grounds of the Lyme Art Association.
The Florence Griswold Museum’s Parading Paws event drew a large crowd of both participants and onlookers.
Mary Dangremond was one of the helpful volunteeres at the Old Lyme Historical Society’s tent.
Most local non-profit organizations were represented at the Festival.
Volunteers at the Old Lyme Open Space tent had plenty of useful information to share with visitors.
Photo by M. Dickey.
And just in case you thought the Festival was all about arts and crafts, check out this rat snake named Colby! He was featured at the Old Lyme Land Trust’s tent in front of the Lyme Art Association.
Here’s a long-distance view of the Fence Artists on the lawn of the Old Lyme Inn, which captures an iconic view of this very special Festival.
And let’s end with a sincere word of thanks to all those, who gave innumerable hours of their time to plan and organize the event, and all the additional volunteers, who ultimately made it happen. You know who are … THANK YOU!
Company Became Major Force, Record-Breaker in World of Hyper-Performing Autos
OLD LYME — The following tribute to Reeves Callaway was published on the Callaway Cars website. We republish it here with the full authorization of Callaway Cars.
Reeves Callaway, 1947-2023
July 14, 2023 Temecula, California Old Lyme, Connecticut Leingarten, Germany
Photo credit: ERCIII Trust.
Callaway Cars announces, with deepest sadness, the passing of our Founder and CEO, Ely Reeves Callaway III, on Tuesday, July 11, at his home in Newport Beach, California, from injuries sustained after a fall.
Reeves was a legendary figure in the world of high-performance automobiles. Entirely self-taught, Reeves founded the company in 1977 from his garage in Old Lyme, Connecticut.
His first product success was an aftermarket turbo kit for BMW, which renowned automotive journalist Don Sherman reviewed favorably that year in Car and Driver. The rest was history as Reeves, a Formula Vee champion driver prior to becoming a constructor, moved with his customary speed to open Callaway Cars’ first headquarters in Old Lyme, Connecticut.
Photo credit: ERCIII Trust.
Over the four decades since, Reeves and Callaway Cars have continued to earn top accolades from media, the automotive industry, and the global motorsports world as a pioneer of “Powerfully Engineered Automobiles”. His unique performance and design innovations have delivered track and road-going successes for global marques, including BMW, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Land Rover, Mazda and General Motors, who looked to Callaway’s innovation, creativity, agility, and performance to help accomplish their goals.
Reeves is perhaps best known for his work with Corvette, a deep and high-level relationship with the American sports car manufacturer that began in 1987 and culminated with two industry firsts:
• The Callaway Twin Turbo Corvette “B2K” designation, a factory code to signify the GM stamp of approval to permit sale and distribution of the Callaway Corvette via the Chevrolet Dealer network which, in turn, earned Callaway Cars the rare honor of becoming designated a Specialty Vehicle Manufacturer.
• The second was a world-first record: in 1989, Callaway Cars built a Twin Turbo Corvette, dubbed “The Sledgehammer” that blew away all the competition by setting a production-car top speed record of 254.76 mph. Not until 2010, 21 years later, did Bugatti break Callaway’s record by achieving a 267.85 mph in a Veyron Super Sport.
Photo credit: ERCIII Trust.
In 1994, Reeves launched a Germany-based racing unit, Callaway Competition, with partners Ernst Wöhr and Giovanni Ciccone. International recognition was achieved by their successes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and later a European GT racing team which ultimately led to authorization by GM to construct and homologate C6- and C7-generation GT3 race cars for international competition.
Reeves was one of the last and most successful one-man, single-vision practitioners of hyper-performing internal combustion automobiles. It’s a rare-air field that includes the likes of Ettore Bugatti, Ferry Porsche, and Enzo Ferrari, to name a few.
Reeves’ vision, creativity, and innovation encompassed not only automotive engineering, but aviation and aerospace as well with Callaway Carbon, Inc.
A longtime helicopter pilot and Board Director for Kaman Corporation, Reeves was in recent years a founding adviser to a hydrogen-powered and composite-intensive, blended-wing aircraft start-up with funding from NASA and the Air Force.
Photo credit: ERCIII Trust.
“Thanks to Reeves’ visionary entrepreneurial spirit, Callaway Cars will continue to innovate and grow in the 21st century, inspired by his unique, extraordinary vision, and by his personal example of integrity, resourcefulness, and leadership as our founder,” says his son Peter Reeves Callaway, the company’s President. “Dad’s passion for making beautifully designed and crafted machines can be seen in each and every project, and we remain devoted to executing to the highest standards, in true Callaway fashion. He was rarely found doing anything other than working towards the next milestone for the company. He was a charismatic leader with a sense of humor that we will all remember through various “Reeves-isms”. I feel fortunate to have grown up working with him and the company.”
Mike Zoner, the Chief Operating Officer of Callaway Cars, remembers him: “I have had the privilege of working with Reeves and helping him innovate for over 35 years. Reeves always strived to make the finest vehicles and products, and then improve them. His support of our customers, partners, and team members was unwavering. We shall carry his vision and mission forward and continue to grow the company he founded and built into innovative future products that he would applaud as we honor his legacy.”
Photo credit: ERCIII Trust.
The first son of Ely Reeves Callaway, Jr., the founder of Callaway Golf, and brother of publisher Nicholas Callaway, Reeves proudly epitomized the entrepreneurial Callaway family tradition of making the finest goods that enhance an individual’s enjoyment, performance and lifestyle.
A true gentleman, he was the devoted father of four and grandfather of two.
His large circle of friends, colleagues and admirers around the world will mourn his passing and miss him deeply.
Further communiqués from Callaway Cars will be forthcoming.
