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NEWS&VIEWS by Jacqueline Bennett

Destination: Return to Sadler’s Ordinary for Seafood & Ham

Posted on March 28, 2016

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Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

With the exception of one luncheon last November, a turkey dinner that was excellent, most of my visits to Sadler’s Ordinary in Marlborough, Connecticut have involved French Toast, Eggs and Bacon or Sausage from their Sunday Brunch menu, once again excellent. Yesterday’s reservation, however, was a combination celebration of my birthday and Easter dinner.

 

010009First came a bread basket with Sadler’s fresh and delicious, homemade raisin bread (loaves are available to take home from their bakery counter). Baked Scallops was my entree choice. Served with almond slices speckled white rice, butternut squash, green beans and a lemon wedge, the succulent scallops topped with parmesan cracker crumbs were simply divine. Everyone else in our party ordered traditional Easter Ham, that also came with butternut squash and green beans but a baked potato and sour cream instead of rice. Those dinners looked great and I’m told tasted quite fabulous – moist, easy to cut ham baked to perfection then crowned by Cumberland Sauce – an English sauce highlighting red currant jelly, citrus and port wine.

 

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011One person in our group also ordered Lobster Bisque, another board special which was said to be good but missing large chucks of lobster served elsewhere. No menu desserts were selected on this day because a lovely decorated cake was brought along complete with a musical candle holder that played “Happy Birthday”! Very nice.

 

016It is a pleasant drive to reach Sadler’s which is located off Route 2, in an older house in one of Connecticut’s many quaint towns. Colored Easter eggs were hidden outdoors in the bushes while inside touches of Easter decorations could be seen throughout the restaurant. As well, a bundle of community newspapers was situated by the door and free for the taking.

 

Another “thumbs up” experience at Sadler’s!

UConn Women Too Good?

Posted on March 28, 2016

 

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Commentary by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

Back when I began my reporting career, there was a photographer at the newspaper who used to roll his eyes and sigh when he was assigned to cover “girls’ games”. He saw girls’ games as a snooze, not up to the level of competition as the boys and thus not necessarily worthy of coverage. However, Title IX was in place as was a more open-minded editor and the girls’ games got some ink.

 

Fast forward to the 2016 NCAA women’s national basketball tournament and a sports writer who announced he will not be covering the rest of the University of Connecticut games, essentially because so far they have been a snooze – a cake walk. Apparently, the University of Connecticut women are too good?! Absent sound competition, UConn has been racking up scores with wide differentials.

 

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma responded by pointing out when Tiger Woods was dominating the game of golf, no one said he was so good that he was ruining the game. “In fact, Tiger was good for the game. He made everyone else play better,” said Auriemma.

 

It is up to UConn’s opponents to raise their level of play, not for the UConn women to play down to lesser competition. That would be dishonest and unfair to the UConn players who hustle in practices and on game days. Having gotten a glimpse of some of those practices, they are not for the faint of heart. Were I not a UConn alum, I would feel the same way.

 

By the way, a main tenet of good journalism is – be there.

Harkness Memorial Park & Eugene O’Neill Theater – Coastal Connecticut Is Calling

Posted on March 26, 2016

Eugene O'Neill Memorial theater Center

Eugene O’Neill Memorial Theater Center

 

Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

With the arrival of springtime, coastal Connecticut is calling. Among the numerous beautiful spots to visit are Harkness Memorial Park and the Eugene O’Neil Memorial Theater Center – neighbors on Great Neck Road in Waterford.

View of Long Island Sound from Harkness Memorial State Park

Magnificent view of Long Island Sound from Harkness Memorial Park on Great Neck Road in Waterford, Connecticut.

 

Originally the park was home to a 42-room Italian style estate built in 1906 surrounded by lawns and landscaped gardens. From Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend, that mansion is open for guided tours. Presently, the park is a public facility complete with picnic tables, grills, and grounds ideal for long walks complimented by a magnificent view of Long Island Sound.

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008Pack a lunch, sneakers and/or a fishing pole because fishing is allowed here but no swimming. As soon as the weather is suitable, walkers and runners are out-and-about enjoying this 220 acre site. By May, some trees are in full blossom. Off-season there is no charge but starting on Memorial Day Weekend the weekday fee for in-state vehicles is $6, out-of-state $10; on weekends and holidays $9 in-state, $15 out-of-state. Charter Oak Passes providing free admission are available for seniors age 65 and older. They can be picked up in-person at the offices of the DEEP (state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection), or can be requested by mail. Free passes are available too for disabled veterans who reside in CT.

Harkness Memorial Park 275 Great Neck Road, Waterford CT 06385 860-443-5725

 

 

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Snack cabin.

Snack cabin.

 

Just down the road from Harkness Park is the campus of the Eugene O’Neill Memorial Theater Center, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014. In addition to culture and entertainment, theatrical education is a focus at “The O’Neill”. It is a participant in the Cabaret Fellows Program and applications for the program are currently being accepted. According to the theater website, auditions will be held on April 9 in Waterford and April 10 in New York City. Go to http://www.theoneill.org to learn more.

Eugene O’Neill Memorial Theater Center 308 Great Neck Road Waterford, CT

Barry’s Ex Is In Texas, That’s Why “PitCrew BBQ” Is In Hebron, Connecticut

Posted on March 22, 2016

 

 

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“PitCrew BBQ” owner Barry Bricarell.

 

 

Article & Photos By Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 


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Barry Bricarell’s ex-wife is in Texas, that’s why “PitCrew BBQ” is in Hebron, Connecticut.

 

Isn’t there a George Strait song like that?

 

“Yes,” replied Bricarell with a grin, and mischievous twinkle in his eye during an interview March 20 at his roadside “REAL ‘Texas’ BBQ” cart on 1 Main Street.

 

A familiar sight no longer, Barry Bricarelli could not find someone to man the pit.

“PitCrew BBQ” became a familiar sight and popular stop in Hebron, CT but no longer – Barry Bricarell could not find someone to man the pit.

For the past three years or so, Bricarell’s “pit” has become a familiar sight and popular stop in the rear parking lot of the Congregational Church, where he rented the space along Route 85 near a major intersection.

 

“We always stayed busy,” he said.

 

As it turns out, after Sunday, the only way to enjoy his tasty brisket will be at private gatherings. His buddy Blaine has been helping and was there on Sunday, but Bricarell’s full-time job is working in air conditioning and he has not been able to find someone to man the pit while he’s on the job.

 

“This is a hobby,” he explained of his BBQ business.

So good...

So good…

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Smoke rising.

Smoke rising.

 

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Wood burner.

 

 

The mighty good taste of his BBQ is matched by the downhome cordiality of the cook who sports a slight “yes, Ma’am” Texas drawl. Originally from the Lone Star state, Bricarell said he began by making his BBQ for friends at home. It was so good that one friend suggested Bricarell enter a contest.

 

 

 

“I won,” he said.

 

 

 

 

That led to a 10 year BBQ venture in Texas which he carried over to his relocation to New England. He has since competed and won in other states. A key difference in Texas BBQ, he explained, is that cooking is done without sauce – in contrast to other styles. For Texas BBQ, sauce is an add on. As well with Bricarell’s BBQ, the actual fire from the wood burner never touches the meat.

 

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Ironically, with the arrival of spring three days ago comes one of the two busiest seasons for BBQ, the other being summer, according to Bricarell.

 

PitCrew BBQ, Catering & Pig Roasts, Call 860-250-3679 or check it out on facebook.

 

 

Destination: Meg’s Inspirational & Spiritual Boutique – Manchester, CT

Posted on March 19, 2016

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Meg, right, hands Dixie-Sue Larned a token recently offered free with a coupon at her boutique on 38 Main Street in Manchester, Connecticut.

Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

After many years on East Center Street, Meg’s Inspirational & Spiritual Boutique will soon mark one year in its new location on 38 Main Street in Manchester, Connecticut. For owner Margaret “Meg” DiPietro Peterson her shop has been a vital part of her life journey.

 

“It’s my purpose,” she said March 17, 2016.

 

The most rewarding aspect of which she says has been “helping people”.

 

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Located next to the old, historic Eighth Utilities District firehouse, the shop has two front entrances, one with a few steps and an adjacent handicapped entry accessible by ringing a bell. Once inside, the store has a light, airy feel. Mystical-style music plays in the background and it is filled with items that feature Meg’s artwork and its inspirational themes. Each one she explains has a story.

 

Some of Meg's original artwork -each one has a story.

Some of Meg’s original artwork which fills her shop  – each one has a story.

“I’m also a writer,” she added.

 

Messages of positive affirmation surround visitors to her place. According to Meg’s website, the shop sells tools to heal body and mind; items that herald art, dance, and nutrition. “These are the gifts that keep me centered,” she notes.

 

Music, jewelry, t-shirts, journals, angels/fairies, books, magnets, cards, teas, herbs, Recovery Tokens, meditation CD’s, Hazelden Books and Aromatherapy Essential Oils can all be found here.

 

Meg also hosts events. Today, March 19, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. she will celebrate Ostara – the spring equinox – at her store, with a visit from Zita Christian of MoonRiverRituals.com and an exploration of “Persephone’s journey from darkness to light”, admission is $14.00. Coming on April 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. is the “Healing Sounds of Intention” presented by Doug Yaeger and Lynne Hartwell”, admission is $30 per person.

 

Yoga is another of Meg’s offerings. Yoga and Pranayama sessions are held at 9:30 a.m., $10 per person on Saturdays. Read a detailed explanation on her website.

 

Meg’s, 38 Main Street, Manchester CT 06040  860-647-9941 Regular hours 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. http://www.megsinspirations.com

New Interior for Rein’s Deli & Traditional St. Paddy’s Day Fare

Posted on March 17, 2016

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Pistachio cake.

Pistachio cake.

 

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Write-Up & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

Rein’s in Vernon, Connecticut is a good choice any time and on St. Patrick’s Day it is always fun. The owners transform this New York Style Deli into “Ryan’s” this one day each year serving a traditional corned beef & cabbage dinner with a large potato, carrots and a free piece of pistachio cake for dessert. Waitstaff dons all manner of St. Paddy’s Day gear from “Irish Girl” t-shirts to huge, flashing green light dangle earrings. In keeping with the upbeat spirit of the holiday, St. Paddy’s Day smiles are typically plentiful here just like the Guinness Draught.

 

Rein's bar.

Rein’s remodeled bar.

It was a surprise to learn that Rein’s is staying open while undergoing a remodeling. Overall the layout of the restaurant remains the same – a large main dining area with tables of varying size, many are side-by-side, a small back dining room and a rear tavern where there are bar stools, tables and two large televisions usually tuned to sports or news.

 

The remodeled dining area is more open, a section of faux windowpanes that previously separated a portion of the main room from a couple rows of tables is gone. An attractive, multi-beige colored brick backdrop featuring a NYC skyline motif with the Statue of Liberty occupying the center has replaced the far plain wall. Chalk boards are still hung there to announce daily specials. That same brick wall design can be found in the bar. Signs previously designated dining room sections named for different parts of NYC such as “The Bronx”. According to staff, those signs are being revamped and will be back soon.

 

“It’s still a work in progress,” said one waitress, “I love it – don’t you love?”

 

Actually, yes.

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Corned Beef & Cabbage with potato.

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Frankfurter with sauerkraut and (secret recipe) baked beans.

 

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Tuna Melt with cheese, tomatoes and onions.

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Light hearted designs have been added to the menus. What else is still the same? The food is as good as ever!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rein’s New York Style Deli, 435 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon CT, 06066 860-875-1344 http://www.reinsdeli.com/splash.aspx

Sing the Health Praises of Maple Syrup

Posted on March 15, 2016

Maple Syrup from The Root Seller (1)

Courtesy photo from Susan Comte, Comte Family Farm N.H.

 

Article & Photos By Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

What better time to sing the praises of maple syrup than March when the cold nights and warm days in New England have maple tree sap flowing. In most New England states March is considered Maple Month. Transformed from sap to syrup, this sweet delight joyfully tops waffles, French toast and pancakes. Thumb through “The Official Vermont Maple Cookbook” and it appears maple syrup can be used to enhance virtually every recipe known.

 

Often something that tastes so pleasurable is frowned upon for healthy diets. Au contraire when it comes to maple. Surprising information discovered for the recent newsandviewsjb post “New England Maple Excursions On Tap” revealed that when consumed in moderation, maple syrup holds multiple health benefits. Among the benefits are a healthy heart, healthier immune system and antioxidant properties, notes organicfacts.net.

 

With a lower measure on the glycemic index which indicates blood sugar impact – respectively 54 versus 65 – pure, high quality maple syrup is recommended by health experts such as Dr. Josh Axe, http://www.draxe.com/natural-sweeteners/ as a wiser alternative to cane sugar. More natural than its common counterpart, maple syrup is said to impact blood sugar “less dramatically than table sugar”. Plus it contains the nutrients of zinc, which fights illness by improving immunity, and manganese, which helps metabolize fat and carbohydrates. Overall, maple syrup is said to be easier on the digestive tract.

 

Not only enabling better management of blood sugar due to its better glycemic index rating, antioxidant and phytochemicals properties of maple syrup are credited with reducing inflammation in the body. More and more folks in the medical field are blaming inflammation for all kinds of ailments. Antioxidants are credited with fighting the inflammation associated with arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, and some cancers by protecting cells from DNA damage and mutation.

 

If nothing else catches one’s attention, however, here are a couple more benefits sure to do so. Reduced inflammation has been connected to reduction in “oxidative stress” which is responsible for aging at a faster rate. As well, maple syrup can be added to health and beauty regiments; a face mask cited by Dr. Oxe combines maple syrup with raw milk, yogurt and rolled oats aimed at improved skin hydration, bacteria and irritation reduction.

 

As Dr. Axe points out, with concerns about refined sugar being tied to diabetes, obesity, heart disease, cancer, tooth decay and “poor cognitive functioning”, and, though FDA approved – questions tied to artificial sweeteners and headaches, migraines, shrunken thymus glands, impairment of liver and kidney function and mood disorder, use of sweetening alternatives has appeal. Quality maple syrup (grade A or B) has joined raw honey, Blackstrap molasses, dates and real fruit jam on that list of alternatives.

 

It bears repeating, however, this is NOT meant to give license to pouring gobs and gobs of maple syrup on those waffles, or to encourage daily consumption of maple syrup. Rather, the idea is to enjoy maple syrup as an alternative for sweetening and consume it in small amounts.

 

001Whether it is in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island or Vermont, how sweet it is for New England maple producers to have maple syrup praised as a healthy choice.

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Enjoy in moderation!

 

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L.L. Bean Excellence

Posted on March 11, 2016

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My “Quality Guaranteed Since 1912” L.L. Bean Barn Jacket. Love it!

Write-Up and Photos By Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

The L.L. Bean motto is “Quality Guaranteed Since 1912”. As if I didn’t already know what an outstanding company L.L.Bean is, I was recently given a rude reminder of what it can be like to do mail order business with a different company not equally dedicated to customer service.

 

The decision to do business elsewhere cost me a $6 initial shipping fee and another $20.86 in return shipping for the unsatisfactory item. That was despite a phone call and personal request I made for a shipping label. I explained the potential return cost and my surprise because there was no indication on their website that my return cost would so far exceed the sending fee. Not only did the customer service representative refuse my request, but egregiously she further refused to let me speak with personnel above her. Her ‘solution’ was for me to drive an hour and a half out-of-state to their nearest outlet store which would have cost me the $20+ anyway, in gas money. Not only has this company lost any future business they might have gotten from me but also a whole lot of good will.

 

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This L.L.Bean tote was a gift.

In marked contrast, I have been doing business with L.L.Bean since before they offered free shipping and before they opened a store not far from where I live in Connecticut. My experience of this Maine-based company has not only been year round styles I like, lasting quality in its clothing and other products, but also genuine responsiveness to customers. For example, their institution of free shipping. One time I missed a fifty dollar purchase requirement to earn a $10 reward by one penny. I contacted customer service and a pleasant, accommodating customer service representative mailed me the reward anyway. That is good business. Certainly, I would not make a habit of making such a request but the courtesy of that gesture from L.L. Bean impressed me in a very positive way.

 

After many years of wearing a stone-colored L.L. Bean barn jacket, this winter it was time to buy a new one. What ‘Bean’ calls an Adirondack Barn Coat was purchased during one of their 10 percent off promotional events. I selected the shade of “loden” – which is a woodman’s green – with a plaid flannel lining, complimented by a dark brown corduroy collar and cuffs. I love it! It’s comfortable and in a classic style which I adore. So far I have worn it with a cotton L.L. Bean turtleneck accented by a chocolate brown, wool, moose design scarf, as well as, with a L.L.Bean oatmeal-colored wool sweater. Both were already part of my wardrobe. Barn jackets tend to be three season coats, perfect for autumn, winter and early spring – although yesterday temperatures jumped to 70 degrees here in the Northeast and if that continues, in 2016 we may skip spring and head straight to summer.

 

My excitement when a L.L. Bean catalog arrives by mail reminds me of an episode of the television sit/com “WINGS” when Nantucket pilot Joe Hackett, the character played by Tim Daly, was overjoyed because two of his favorite catalogs were delivered on the same day. Often, I tuck the newest L.L. Bean catalog in my sturdy, beautifully monogrammed L.L. Bean tote, which was a gift, in which I carry with me my camera equipment, my reporter notepads, UConn Huskies pens, and more. When I have a free moment I thumb through the L.L. Bean catalog – again and again- making my ‘wish list’.

 

It is so nice to have a company of L.L. Bean’s high caliber. What tickles this native New Englander even more, is that L.L. Bean was founded right here in New England.

Destination: R.J. Julia Booksellers in Madison

Posted on March 3, 2016

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Article & Photos By Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

A mystique has developed around R.J. Julia Booksellers. In an era when small, independent bookstores are being swallowed up or put out of business by large chains, this shoreline gem has not only survived but thrives.

 

Located in the downtown of quaint-ish Madison, Connecticut, R.J. Julia Booksellers is a ten minute drive from Hammonasset Beach State Park and about an hour north of New York City. It is a popular spot for author lectures and book-signings having drawn notables such as … Caroline Kennedy, Garrison Geillor, Nora Ephron, Barbara Walters, Julie Andrews, Bobby Flay, Amy Bloom, Tom Brokaw, local television news anchor Ann Nyberg

… and the list goes on.

 

Madison is a community of 18,000, a two-mile jogging distance to Long Island Sound, and a magnet for year round beach tourists. While its locale may well have helped fuel the success of R.J. Julia as a stop not to be missed when visiting the area, accolades must go to store owner Roxanne Coady. In 2015 Coady celebrated 25 years in business having established her place as one where desired, quality books can be found, as a must for major author tours and for having racked up awards for her bookstore. Coady founded the non-profit “Read to Grow” in 1998, aimed at language building and literacy from an early age. She also coauthored,”Books that Changed My Life”.

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True to R.J. Julia’s promise of a welcoming ambiance, enter the main front entrance to a booklover’s fantasy. Nooks and crannies are filled with shelves of books, books and more books. Posted by some are hand-written reviews from staff. On the left, a Victorian-style stairwell leads to the children’s section – take note of a nearby, lovely framed print of Madison Train Station back in the day. In the center of the floor are tabletops of additional books. To continue the book tour, follow the “watch your step” sign down into the adjacent room where a speaker’s podium remains set-up and photos of past guests grace the walls.

Big cupcakes in the small cafe.

Big cupcakes in the small cafe.

 

 

In the rear of the bookstore is R.J. Cafe & Bistro where the ambiance of the store is extended. It is a small cafe with small tables but big cupcakes. Packed during a recent Sunday lunchtime, clearly the appealing atmosphere, as well as, soup, salad, sandwich etc. menu has made the cafe a hub for locals and out-of-towners alike.

 

R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 203-245-3959 http://www.rjjulia.com

NYC Students Lobby Successfully for “Norman Rockwell Place”

Posted on February 26, 2016

Main Street Stockbridge,Massachusetts in December 2015 during the annual recreation of Norman Rockwell's famous illustration.

Vintage automobiles were part of “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas” in Stockbridge, Massachusetts December 2015. The annual event recreates the Norman Rockwell illustration that thrust the Berkshires Mountains village into the national spotlight.

 

 

Write-up & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

 

Start spreading the news – New York City is now home to “Norman Rockwell Place”.

 

Nestled in the Berkshire Mountains in a New England village, the Norman Rockwell Museum can be found in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. It was here that the iconic American painter/illustrator had a studio for the last twenty-five years of his life and where the town center was the subject of one of Rockwell’s most famous works – “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas”. The illustration, which was published on the cover of McCall’s Magazine in 1967, thrust the quaint town into the national spotlight. Rockwell died in Stockbridge in 1978, just the year before having been awarded the nation’s highest honor presented to a civilian, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. For several years now, each holiday season Stockbridge has recreated the iconic illustration, culminating with vintage cars from the 1950s and 1960s, occupying the spaces depicted in Rockwell’s piece.

 

Visit Stockbridge for this event and expect to see an abundance of New York licence plates. Perhaps this can be attributted to the appeal of the area as a tourist attraction and it’s easy access north along I-91 to the ‘Mass Pike’ west. It may also have to do with the strong connection felt by New Yorkers to Rockwell. After all, he was one of their own.

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Compliments of the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA. this bookmark is a reproduction of Rockwell’s iconic illustration – “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas”. Notice the period vehicles.

 

Born in New York in 1894, his early years were spent in NYC with his family until they moved to New Rochelle. Rockwell was educated in New York then moved elsewhere as he built his career. Recently, a group of students from the Edward A. Reynolds West Side High School lobbied their city council to honor Rockwell by renaming the corner where he lived the first two years of life, “Norman Rockwell Place”. According to the West Side Rag, it was at the corner of West 103 Street and Amsterdam Avenue not far from Broadway, that the Rockwell family and young Norman lived in a brownstone, a site near Edwards A. Reynolds West Side HS.

 

A yearlong effort by the students guided by their teacher, Rene Mills – reports the West Side Rag – was punctuated by two trips from NYC to Stockbridge. That included a visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum and discussions about Rockwell’s Americana and social justice themes in collaboration with the museum’s curator of education.

 

Success!

 

Councilman Mark Levine is credited with having helped “shepherd” the proposal through and the teens were in attendance to see it happen. Noted the paper, “The students showed up to the city council meeting to watch the bill pass”. One might say, it was an American scene, reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting.