Category Archives: Community

Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds in Old Lyme to Close Permanently at End of Year

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Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds founder and owner Gilbert V. Boro in his Old Lyme studio. File photo.

OLD LYME — An announcement is being made today that this will be the final year of operation for Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds in Old Lyme.

According to the statement being issued this afternoon, the founder and owner of the studio and grounds, Gilbert Boro, has decided that, “After more than 30 rewarding years of participating in the arts … it is time to retire from public service.”

He does this not only as a result of, “Much careful thought and consideration,” but also with, “A heavy heart.”

The property will remain open to the public through Dec. 31, 2023 and then close permanently.

A Closing Reception will be held Saturday, Oct. 28, to bid farewell to both the Summer Sculpture Showcase and its exhibiting artists. This will also be a time to, “Share fond memories, and commemorate the end of this beautiful chapter.” 

Bryan Gorneau, who has served as lead fabricator and studio manager for more than 15 years at the Studio 80, will still be available for the custom fabrication services Studio 80 has provided over the last few years.

He wishes to continue the legacy that Boro has created by offering his fabrication, welding, consultation, and restoration services to the artistic community as Studio 82 LLC, which will operate out of the studio building. Gorneau and his partner Christina Goldberg are dedicated to “Ensuring that the legacy of this beloved place lives on — but in a new and innovative way.” 

A view across the iconic Sculpture Grounds in Old Lyme towards the Lieutenant River on the lower right. File photo.

The full statement issued by the Team at Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds reads as follows:

To our dear artists & friends,

It is with many mixed emotions that we have to write this announcement. After much careful thought and consideration, the decision has been made that this will be the last year of operation for Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds. After more than 30 rewarding years of participating in the arts, Gilbert Boro, with a heavy heart, has made the decision that it is time to retire from public service.

Over the last 15 years, we have been sincerely honored to have provided a community space, which nurtured creativity to its fullest breadth and also blessed us with a family of like-minded individuals whose love of the arts paralleled our own. The outpouring of love from our fellow artists and art-lovers for years on end has warmed our hearts and made this adventure feel like a gift. Over the years, we have witnessed countless meaningful conversations, imaginative encounters, and inspiration sparked within these grounds. We have been so very blessed to have met you all, to have showcased your artistic efforts, and to have shared with the world the beauty you have created. Gilbert’s unsparing generosity combined with your unique artistic endeavors have been the muscle that has kept this special place alive. Our doors and our grounds may be closing, but our hearts will not. 

We realize that this news may be surprising and many of you may want the opportunity to visit the Grounds one last time. The decision has been made that the property will remain open to the public through December 31, 2023. We will be hosting a Closing Reception on October 28th to bid farewell to our Summer Sculpture Showcase & exhibiting artists, share fond memories, and commemorate the end of this beautiful chapter. 

For those of you who have utilized our fabrication services, please rest-assured that Bryan Gorneau, our lead fabricator and studio manager, will still be available for the custom fabrication services Studio 80 has provided over the last few years. Bryan has worked as our fabrication leader for over 15 years and would like to continue the legacy that Gilbert has created by offering his fabrication, welding, consultation, and restoration services to our artistic community as Studio 82 LLC, which will operate out of the studio building. Bryan, along with Christina, is dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of this beloved place lives on – but in a new and innovative way. 

Please stay tuned for more information and feel free to reach out to Bryan or Christina at studio82bryan@gmail.com or www.stu82.com.

Thank you again for your support and understanding. We want to express our sincerest gratitude for being part of our journey. Your presence and friendships have made this venture truly exceptional. We have been proud to serve this amazing artistic community and we wish everyone continued creativity and success!

With much love and appreciation,

The Team @ Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds

Editor’s Note: Visit this link to view the Team’s “Fond Farewell,” which includes links to two videos about Gilbert Boro and Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds.

Mosquitoes in East Lyme Test Positive for West Nile Virus

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EAST LYME, CT — On Sept. 27, Ledge Light Health District (LLHD) announced that mosquitoes collected in East Lyme and from a collection station on the Waterford/New London line on Sept.14 have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV), and that mosquitoes collected in Ledyard on Sept. 20 have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). 

Previously LLHD announced that mosquitoes collected in Stonington on Sept. 11 tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV), and that mosquitoes collected in Ledyard on Sept. 13 tested positive for West Nile Virus.

In all these Stonington and Ledyard cases, the positive mosquito was culiseta melanura, which is known to primarily bite birds but has been known to bite mammals.

Also, LLHD announced that mosquitoes collected in Lyme, Conn. on Sept. 6 tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The positive mosquito was culex restuans, which is known to bite birds and mammals.

Previously this summer, mosquitoes from North Stonington (8/21) and Waterford (8/23) tested positive for WNV.

Positive EEE and WNV mosquitoes are normally expected during the summer months, and their presence serves as a reminder for residents to take standard precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Precautions to avoid mosquito bites:

  • Minimize time outdoors at dusk and dawn.
  • Be sure door and window screens are tight fitting and in good repair.
  • While outdoors, wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts. Clothing material should be tightly woven.
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors.
  • Consider using mosquito repellent when it is necessary to be outdoors and always use it according to label instructions. The most effective repellents contain DEET or Picaridin. Oil of lemon eucalyptus is also effective for brief periods of exposure.
  • When using DEET, use the lowest concentration effective for the time spent outdoors (for example, 6% lasts approximately 2 hours and 20% for 4 hours) and wash treated skin when returning indoors. Do not apply under clothing, to wounds or irritated skin, the hands of children, or to infants less than 2 months.

Measures to reduce mosquitoes around the home:

  • Dispose of water-holding containers, such as ceramic pots, used tires, and tire swings.
  • Drill holes in the bottom of containers such as those used for recycling.
  • Clean clogged roof gutters.
  • Turn over objects that may trap water when not in use such as wading pools and wheelbarrows.
  • Change water in bird baths on a weekly basis.
  • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, and cover pools when not in use.
  • Use landscaping to eliminate areas where water can collect on your property.

Additional resources for information on West Nile virus and mosquito management can be found at this link.

If you need assistance or advice treating standing water on your property, a member of LLHD’s Environmental Health staff can help. An Environmental Technician will visit your property and provide education on how to prevent and eliminate mosquitoes. Contact Patti Myers at (860) 434-1605 ext. 214 for more information.

Editor’s Note: This article is based on press releases issued by Ledge Light Health District on various dates in September.

Old Lyme’s PGN Library Celebrates 125th Anniversary With Unveiling of Book-Reading Griffin Sculpture

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The Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library Board of Trustees and staff gathered to celebrate the Library’s 125th Anniversary with the unveiling of a bronze sculpture of a book-reading griffin on the library’s front lawn.

OLD LYME — On Sept. 12, the Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin (PGN) Noyes Library Board of Trustees and staff gathered to celebrate the Library’s 125th Anniversary with the unveiling of a bronze statue of a griffin, a mythical half-eagle, half-lion creature. The almost 200-pound bronze statue, created by sculptor Michael McLaughlin, stands by the library’s entrance with an open book at its paws. 

“While it is great fun to have such a wonderful sculpture right by our door,” explains Library Director Katie Huffman, continuing, “We are most excited by how it will help our library better connect with children, and further advance the library’s mission.”

According to Julie Bartley, the PGN’s Children’s Librarian, the library has long recognized that to inspire lifelong learning, it has to reach children at an early age … which is basically the same intent as the library’s many youth programs. The Library’s griffin is intended to contribute to that effort.

“While the griffin has often been portrayed as a fierce, magical creature,” Huffman notes, she adds, “We hope our griffin is slightly softer and more accessible than most.”

She points out, “It is still a griffin, with a nod to the merits of its determined, insatiable curiosity, but we hope visitors will find her friendly and inviting, and that even the youngest visitor will be inspired to give her a pat.”

Sculptor McLaughlin resides in northwestern Connecticut. He received his foundation in classical art while studying at the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts. Upon completing his studies at the Academy, Michael went on to participate in an “old school” style apprenticeship in the studio of sculptor, Juan Andreu.

Andreu later inspired McLaughlin to travel to Thailand, Korea and Japan to continue his course of study further.

McLaughlin is the recipient of numerous awards and has won commissions from municipalities, galleries and private collectors from across the country.

Established in 1897, the Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library exists to inspire lifelong learning and discovery in a welcoming place with exceptional resources programs and services. As a 501(c)3 association library, it receives support from town and state funding, and also relies on private donations.

The Library’s griffin was made possible thanks to private financial support from the Library’s Board of Trustees and others.

Lyme-Old Lyme’s Food Share Garden is One of Three Locally to Receive United Way Award for Innovation 

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Lyme-Old Lyme Food Share Garden (LOLFSG) founder Jim Ward holds the Innovation Award certificate in the center of this group of LOLFSG volunteers and United Way representatives. From left to right are Old Lyme First Selectman Tim Griswold, LOLFSG Board Members Jack Larocca, Mylan Sarner, Amy Mastrangelo, Ward, and Peter Hunt; continuing left to right, SECT United Way Vice President Gemma Moran United Way stands next to Old Lyme Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker, who is alongside Jill Rusk, also of United Way. Photo submitted by LOLFSG.

LYME/OLD LYME — As part of United Way of Southeastern Connecticut’s annual Engagement Awards program, the Lyme-Old Lyme Food Share Garden is one of three giving gardens in New London County, which have been honored for innovation. 

The other two gardens honored are the Craig Floyd Giving Garden at Coogan Farm, Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center, and the East Lyme Giving Garden.

An awards presentation was made on Sept. 13, at the East Lyme Giving Garden, 4 Church Ln., East Lyme for the partners to coincide with Hunger Action Month, occurring annually in September. 

After receiving the award, LOLFSG founder and board chair Jim Ward commented exclusively to LymeLine.com, “The Innovation Award from United Way of New London reflects the dedication of the residents and businesses of Lyme and Old Lyme.” He added, “The success of the garden is a testament to our dedicated volunteers and the generous financial support from the communities.”

Last year, the giving gardens provided more than 37,000 pounds of fresh produce to the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center (Food Center), marking a 65 per cent increase over the previous growing season. The Innovation Award is being presented to them for this increase, in addition to tailoring their produce based on a guest survey regarding which food items are most requested and needed. 

September is Hunger Action Month to help increase awareness of hunger and hunger-related issues. Currently the food insecurity rate in New London County is nearly 11 percent overall and 12.3 percent in children. 

It is often difficult and expensive for families struggling to make ends meet to afford fresh food items. They may also have limited access to food. The giving gardens provide nutritious, healthy items for families to which they may not otherwise have access. 

Volunteers at all three gardens are actively involved in planting, weeding, harvesting, and washing the vegetables prior to being picked up for delivery to the Food Center. 

Volunteers at the Food Center’s warehouse in New London package the produce, whence it is then either distributed to member agencies or through the Mobile Food Pantry program. 

Representatives from each garden meet regularly to discuss best practices and techniques, and to give feedback to United Way. They also work to vary the items each one grows for a more diverse selection and based on survey results. 

Editor’s Note: This article is based on a press release issued by the Lyme-Old Lyme Food Share Garden.

Seeking Memories of Lee Dadalt– Art Teacher in Lyme-Old Lyme Schools for Over 30 Years — for Upcoming Retrospective of His Work

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Lee Dadlalt in 1990. All photos submitted by Mr. Dadalt’s family.

OLD LYME — During a lifetime of creating artworks across a variety of media, Lee Francis Dadalt always remained true to his philosophy that art – both in the creative process and the completed works – should be fun. An art teacher in the Lyme-Old Lyme school district for more than 30 years, he looked forward to inspiring and encouraging young artists as he lived his classroom philosophy and led by example.

Dadalt’s family is now seeking some of these former students, especially those who went on to have their own art careers.

Dadalt painted “Mailbox #155” in watercolor, 21″x15 “, in 2007.

Dadalt found endless inspiration for his artwork in the shoreline scenery of southeastern Connecticut, where he lived and worked throughout his life, creating works ranging from luminescent landscapes to color-drenched still lifes. In addition, he also completed a wide variety of whimsical works.

This whimsical “Flower Cat” 18″ x12″ print was created by Dadalt in 1985.

While his favorite medium was watercolor, he also created brilliant and inviting pieces in a vast spectrum of media ranging from pencil and acrylic to oil and tempera wash, the latter of which he called “a dying, lost art.” He also composed and completed etchings, woodcuts, sculptures. posters, pottery, screen prints and lithographs.

One reason he created art across this wide spectrum of media is because he wanted to show his students a myriad of ways they could find their own artistic voices.

As a teacher, Dadalt was playful and fun in the classroom. He did not like to discipline students or give them poor grades – even if they earned those grades – because he did not want to discourage them from their creative pursuits. He instead strove to inspire and encourage their budding talents. 

Dadalt was born in Stonington Borough in 1948. He grew up in Mystic, after his family moved to Ocean View Ave. when he was just five-years-old. He attended local Groton schools and graduated from Fitch Senior High School. He studied at Mitchell College in New London before heading to the University of Hartford’s Hartford Art School, where he completed a bachelor’s of fine arts degree in 1972.

In 1978, he earned a master’s degree from Wesleyan University in Middletown. 

He began teaching art in 1973 in the Lyme-Old Lyme Public Schools, where he remained for his entire teaching career. He taught high school students until 1978, then was a middle school art teacher in the system until he retired in 2003.

Dadalt painted “Flowers in Striped Vase”, 17″ x 23″ , in 1987 using tempera resist.

He was intensely proud of the many students he helped inspire to further their art educations and pursue careers in the arts.

Dadalt retired from teaching after 31 years in 2003. He died in 2007 at his home in Mystic, surrounded by the scenes that inspired him professionally throughout his lifetime. 

Dadalt’s family is seeking to speak to any of Dadalt’s former students. The family is preparing for an exhibition of his work scheduled for May and June 2024 at the LaGrua Center in Stonington and hopes to add these former students’ voices to promotional materials in the months leading up to the exhibition, as well as at the exhibition itself.

Insights gained from former students, especially those who were inspired by Dadalt to pursue their own careers in art, would help show a more complete picture of Dadalt and his life as an artist and teacher.

Former students are encouraged to reach out to Dadalt’s brother-in-law Steve McGuire at mystic06355@gmail.com with their memories and thoughts about how Dadalt inspired them.