UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS:

• August 1 at 6 pm | Conservation Commission
• August 2 at 5:30 pm | Economic Development Commission
• August 3 at 4:30 pm | Eastern Point Historic District Commission
• August 4 at 5 pm | Groton City Day
• August 7 at 7:30 pm | Mayor and Council
• August 9 at 7 pm | Beach and Parks Committee
• August 10 at 6 pm | Harbor Management Commission
• August 11 at 6:30 pm | Concerts in the Park - Wild Nights
• August 14 at 7 pm | Council Group Committees
• August 15 at 6:30 pm | Planning and Zoning Commission

• August 16 at 5:30 pm | Groton Utilities Commission
• August 17 at 6 pm | Police and Communities Together Committee
• August 20 at 6:30 pm | Summer Cabaret at Eastern Point Beach
• August 21 at 5:30 pm | Board of Ethics
• August 21 at 7:30 pm | Mayor and Council
• August 22 at 7 pm | Zoning Board of Appeals
• August 23 at 6 pm | Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Open House
• August 24 at 2 pm | Retirement Board
• August 24 at 6:30 pm | Youth Advisory Committee
• August 25 at 6:30 pm | Concerts in the Park - Red Light
• August 28 at 6:30 pm | Committee of the Whole

WELCOME, CHIEF BURTON!

At the Mayor and Council Meeting on Monday, July 17th Chief David Burton was sworn in as the new Chief of Police for the City of Groton. We welcome our new Chief to the City of Groton and look forward to working together.

Burton, who grew up in Waterford, spent more than 25 years with the Waterford Police Department and retired in 2019 as a lieutenant. More recently, he served as chief of the Socorro Police Department in Texas.

Burton succeeds Erick Jenkins, who retired on July 7th after more than 30 years with the City of Groton Police Department. Jenkins became the department's police chief in 2021, and Police Captain Patricia Lieteau served as interim chief after Jenkins' retirement and prior to Burton's appointment.

BEST WISHES!

On July 7th, Chief Jenkins retired from law enforcement after 34 years of service. He received a citation from the General Assembly that was presented to him by Senator Heather Somers. Surrounded by family and coworkers, we sent him off to his next adventure with special gifts.

On June 30th, we lost a valuable member of our dispatch team when Dispatcher Sandi Burns retired after 43 years of service as a public safety dispatcher. 

We congratulate Chief Jenkins and Sandi on their retirements and offer them our best wishes.

BACK TO SCHOOL EVENTS

We will be doing a Stuff-A-Cruiser for school supplies at the Annual City of Groton Day on August 4th, starting at 5 pm. The City of Groton Police Department and St. John's Christian Church will also be co-sponsoring a Back-to-School Back Pack event on August 19th.

THE CITY OF GROTON POLICE DEPARTMENT IS HIRING!

The City of Groton Police Department is hiring for the following positions. If interested, please apply at policeapp.com. 

If you have any questions, contact the Police Department at policedept@cityofgroton-ct.gov or call us at 860-445-2451.

(For emergencies, please dial 911)

For the Fire Department email us at fire@cityofgroton-ct.gov or call us at

860-445-2456.

SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLING CONTAINERS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Large solid and recycling containers are available for purchase to City of Groton residents. You can purchase 65-gallon trash or recycling containers for $79 each and 95-gallon trash containers for $89 each.

The design is compatible with automated and semi-automated lifters to fit onto City of Groton garbage trucks. The two-wheeled containers are nearly maintenance-free and are easy to tilt and roll.

For more information or to order a container, contact the City of Groton Public Works Department at 860-446-4127.

HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Hazardous household waste collection is available at several locations in the region. City of Groton residents can drop off hazardous household wastes to be professionally incinerated, neutralized, stored, or recycled.

This service is available for free to all Groton residents (ID is required). Collection is only available for residential wastes; no commercial users.

For a full list of acceptable and unacceptable items, items that are regularly accepted at the Groton Transfer Station, and instructions on how to prepare hazardous wastes for collection and drop them off, click here.

For more information and questions about collections please contact Southeastern Connecticut Regional Resources Recovery Authority, 7 Hurlbutt Road Suite 1, Gales Ferry, CT 06335 www.SCRRRA.org. Phone: 860-381-5558 Fax: 860-381-5948.

If you have any questions please contact the Public Works Department at highway@cityofgroton-ct.gov or call us at 860-446-4127

GROTON CITY DAY IS FRIDAY, AUGUST 4TH!

Don't miss out on this fun day for the whole family! The Groton City Police Department is also having a Stuff-a-Cruiser event for Back-to-School supplies during the celebration. They would love you to contribute toward stuffing that cruiser!

EASTERN POINT BEACH YOGA

Join in on the fun, work on your health and enjoy the view!

Beach Yoga, offered by Baptiste Power Yoga, is taking place every Wednesday at Eastern Point Beach, starting at 5:30 pm. Donations of $10 will support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

No parking fee to attend the yoga class.

CITY OF GROTON FARMERS' MARKET

The City of Groton Farmers' Market's mission is to provide a venue for local farmers and artisans to sell their produce and products directly to the diverse and integrated population of southeastern Connecticut.

The market can be found at Washington Park every Tuesday from 3-6 pm. The last market will take place on October 31st, after which a series of pop-up markets will be held in the fall and winter.

2023 CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Get ready to rock out in the park with our stellar lineup of 2023 bands. We have several bands making their Washington Park debut this year while also bringing back a number of our all-time favorites.

Shows begin at 6:30 pm. All shows are held at Washington Park in the City of Groton and feature a variety of food trucks. The series is co-sponsored and co-produced by the City of Groton Parks and Recreation Department and Groton Utilities.

The schedule of performers for 2023 includes:

• August 11th - Wild Nights
• August 25th - Red Light
• September 1st - American Honey

For more information, click here.

CONCERTS AT THE BEACH

The final Summer Sound Waves concert will take place at Esker Point Beach on Thursday, August 3rd. Soul Factory will be performing.

This family-friendly concert runs 6-8 pm, featuring great music and a variety of local food vendors. Pets and alcohol are not permitted. Parking is $5 for motorcycles and $10 for cars.

The last Summer Cabaret concert at Eastern Point Beach will take place on Sunday, August 20th, featuring Andre & Eddie. The performance is free for anyone with a beach pass or City residents after 5 pm; non-resident parking is $5 starting at 6 pm.

EASTERN POINT BEACH PASSES AVAILABLE AT PARKS & RECREATION OFFICE

Beach Pass sales are now Monday - Thursday from 8 am - 4 pm in the Parks & Recreation Office at 295 Meridian Street. Please bring your car registration and ID with you.

We offer a discount of $5 off your season pass when you show a military ID.

See our website for full pricing.

NEW DISC GOLF BASKET AT WASHINGTON PARK!

Bring your discs and try out our new practice disc golf basket, located toward the top of the hill closest to Mitchell Street at Washington Park. Great for practice or trying out a new sport!

RENT THE ZBIERSKI HOUSE AT EASTERN POINT BEACH

Small party, year-round rental venue at Eastern Point Beach with breathtaking views of Long Island Sound! Holds 50 people, tables and chairs are included. Limited kitchen on premise along with 2 bathrooms. Additional parking fees apply during open beach season. 

City of Groton residents: $30 per hour      

Non-residents: $60 per hour 

$100 security deposit is required (refundable as long as the contract is not broken)

Visit cityofgroton.recdesk.com or call 860-446-4128 for further details.

PERSONALIZED PAVERS AT EASTERN POINT BEACH

Arranged around the flagpole in front of the Tyler House.

$225 / 4 lines maximum (9 characters max per line, includes spaces). Payment is due with order form.

Order form can be picked up at our office or found online at recdesk.com.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

• August 2nd at 5:30 pm Economic Development Commission
• August 4th at 5 pm Groton City Day - Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Project Display
• August 15th at 6:30 pm Planning and Zoning Commission
• August 22nd at 7 pm Zoning Board of Appeals
• August 23rd at 6 pm Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Open House
• August 28th at 6 pm Committee of the Whole - Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Project Update

BRIDGE STREET GATEWAY COMPLETE STREET OPEN HOUSE AND ANNOUNCEMENT

The Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Project focuses on the intersections of Bridge Street, North Street and Broad Street, which serves as the gateway to the City of Groton from Interstate 95. The purpose of this project is to temporarily demonstrate and evaluate elements of a complete street redesign proposed for the intersections. The goals of this project include:

• Enhancing the pedestrian and cyclist experience by increasing visibility;
• Shortening pedestrian crossing distances; and
• Slowing vehicular traffic. 

The project will focus on the following elements:

• Markings (high visibility crosswalks and midblock crossing)
• Curb extensions
• Bicycle lanes
• Median pedestrian island along Bridge St (to test closing a left turn lane onto I-95 on ramp)
• Signage and banners 

Join the conversation on GreaterGroton.com and join staff for an open house on Wednesday, August 23rd from 6-8 pm in Council Chambers.

POLLINATOR PLANT GIVEAWAY AT GROTON CITY DAY

The Planning & Economic Department, in partnership with the Nature Conservancy will be doing a Pollinator Plant giveaway at the Annual Groton City Day on Saturday, August 4th.

Come and talk with staff about the Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Project and receive a ticket for your pollinator plant while supplies last. 

SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY! VOLUNTEER ON:

Economic Development Commission

Formed with the purpose of promoting and developing the City of Groton’s economic assets. The Commission consists of 8 regular members and 2 alternates members committed to the growth and success of the local economy. The commission is authorized to; improve the function and appearance of the City’s commercial districts; encourage a diverse business environment; emphasize the strengths of locating business in the City; and support, promote, and celebrate the success of local entrepreneurs.

Authority: CT General Statutes Sections 7-136 and 8-188

Available Seats: 2 Regular Members; 2 Alternates

Term: 3 Years

Meetings are held in the City of Groton Council Chambers at 5:30pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month.

For more information, contact Cierra Patrick at patrickc@cityofgroton.com

Zoning Board of Appeals  

Hears and decides appeals where it is alleged that there is an error in any order, requirement or decision made by the Zoning Enforcement Officer. The ZBA also determines, and may vary, the application of the zoning regulations with due consideration for conserving public health, safety and welfare, and with respect to a specific parcel of land where a literal enforcement of a regulation would result in exceptional difficulty or unusual hardship resulting in significant interference with the use of the property.   

Authority: CT General Statutes – Zoning Board of Appeals, Section 8-5

Available Seats: 3 Alternates

Term: 5 years. Appt. by Mayor

Meetings are held in the City of Groton Council Chambers at 7:30 p.m. on the 4th Tuesday of the month.

For more information, contact Leslie Creane at creanel@cityofgroton-ct.gov 

CALLING ALL CITY OF GROTON COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNERS

Are you looking to renovate or build a new development? Schedule a one-on-one meeting with the Planning & Economic Development team to discuss your ideas and plans for your property. To schedule an appointment please email Patrickc@cityofgroton-ct.gov.

Do you have available commercial space for sell or rent? There's a growing interest for commercial space from enthusiastic entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their business to the City of Groton. If you have available space, please email Cierra Patrick, the City of Groton's Economic Development Manager, with the following information:

• Property address
• Property size by square feet
• Number of floors 
• Available space in square feet 
• Lease/sale price 
• Realtor's contact information, if applicable
• Property brochure, if available  

CITY OF GROTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANT PROGRAM

For more information please contact Cierra Patrick, City of Groton Economic Development Specialist at Patrickc@CityofGroton-CT.gov 

GREATER GROTON COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLATFORM

Join the Conversation!



Click here to sign-up for the Greater Groton Community Engagement Platform and participate in community discussions and planning efforts throughout Groton.  

Have you signed up for the City of Groton's Bi-weekly Business Update?

Sign up here! and receive bi-weekly business updates prepared by the City of Groton's Economic Development staff covering:

• Upcoming Webinars & Training

• Workforce Development Opportunities 

• Industry Events

• Funding Opportunities

• Business Support Services

Check out some of our featured Business Newsletter updates below!

GROTON CITY BREW RUN

Groton City Brew Run

Saturday, September 9th, 10:30 am

Eastern Point Beach

Groton Utilities and the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce present the 3rd Annual Groton City Brew Run, a combination 5K race and local brewfest, on Satruday, September 9th. Participants can either walk the route starting at 10:30 am or compete in a running race starting at 11 am. The race is followed by a festival featuring 13 local breweries, live music from 2 Cat Zoo, and food trucks.

This year, the running route has been updated to begin and end at Eastern Point Beach, right in front of the Tyler House - no more walking to the road to start!

Participants can walk or run only, take part in the walk or run along with the brewfest, or attend the brewfest only.

Register here

TEMPORARY SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE FOR GOLD STAR MEMORIAL BRIDGE

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has introduced a temporary no-cost shuttle to provide transportation services crossing the southbound span of the Gold Star Memorial Bridge. This service will allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the Bridge while the sidewalk is closed for evaluation, testing and repair.

The shuttle is running seven days per week, from 6 am to 5 pm. The pedestrian walkway has been closed to pedestrians since it was damaged due to the fatal vehicle crash in April.

The Gold Star Bridge Shuttle will run on continuous 30-minute loops with stops at Williams Street & Bailey Circle (Southbound), Bridge Street in Groton, 121 Riverview Avenue, and 1 Bailey Circle. The 20-passenger shuttle bus will display “Gold Star Bridge Shuttle” and can carry two bicycles.

The temporary Gold Star Bridge Shuttle will be provided at no cost to users; however, no transfers will be issued. The shuttle service is ADA-accessible.

The complete Gold Star Bridge Shuttle schedule is above.

For additional transportation options and help planning a commute, visit CTrides.com.  

THAMES RIVER HERITAGE PARK "DISCOVER THE THAMES" BOAT TOURS

Enjoy a special late summer cruise on the Thames River Heritage Park's water taxi! All tours depart from City Pier at New London Waterfront Park, and the boat has a maximum capacity of 30 people. Purchase your ticket in advance to save $5. Beverages and snacks are welcome on board, but please do not bring any glass containers. Please also be aware that no bathroom is available on board.

By the Light of the Silvery Moon: Full Moon Cruise on the Thames

August 1st | 8:45 pm

August 29th | 7:30 pm

August 30th | 8 pm

Cruise down the Thames to the Long Island Sound. As the sun sets in the west and the skies explode with breathtaking hues of gold and pink, enjoy the light of the silvery full moon as it creates a path of glittering gold along the water at sunset.

BUY TICKETS 

Let Loose Thursday: Fireworks Cruise

August 3rd | 8 pm

Get right under the action for the last Let Loose Thursday of the summer! The Fireworks Cruise will bring you for a tour down the Thames River and — weather permitting — out to the Ledge Lighthouse and back to secure a front row spot for the fireworks display.

Boat departs from City Pier, New London Waterfront Park

Purchase your ticket in advance and save $5.

BUY TICKETS

Friday Happy Hour Harbor Cruise

August 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th | 5:30 pm

Looking for a great way to end the week and kick start your weekend? Look no further. Gather your friends or travel solo, bring your favorite beverage and hop aboard Thames River Heritage Park's authentic navy utility boat for a relaxing cruise down the Thames. You bring the cooler (alcohol is permitted) and we’ll take you to where the Thames meets the Sound for an enjoyable and scenic ride past battlefields, forts, heritage sites and more. Who knows … you might even spot a submarine!

BUY TICKETS

Water, Wampum, & Medicine Wheels. Mohegan Life on the Thames

August 5th and 26th | 2:40 pm

The first inhabitants along the western side of the Massapequatuck (Thames) River — the Mohegan tribe — settled here from the time of Sachem Uncas’ birth toward the end of the 16th century. This area — roughly between present day Norwich and New London — was and continues to be the vital heart of Mohegan country. Led by Tribal members, this fascinating tour will include stories demonstrating how crucial the Thames River was for food, wildlife, transportation, and trade as well as their relationship with the colonists.

BUY TICKETS

Submarines, Battlefields, and Betrayers. Military Stories on the Thames

August 5th, 12th, and 26th | 4:05 pm

For centuries our harbor has guarded the Thames River and entry to Long Island Sound, with Navy and Coast Guard installations, the ship building industries that support them, as well as two forts that have seen battles, defeats and the birthplace of the Coast Guard and Merchant Marine. From the vantage point of the river you‘ll understand the strategic value of this storied waterway and region and hear a few of the thousand stories in the Park.

BUY TICKETS

Commerce and Defense: Maritime History of the Thames to 1865

August 6th | 1:05 pm

August 12th | 2:40 pm

August 13th | 1:05 pm

August 19th | 2:40 pm

August 20th | 1:05 pm

August 26th | 2:40 pm 

August 27th | 1:05 pm

Travel back in time to 1865 and meet Commodore Joseph Lanman as he returns to his native land for shore leave. While cruising the Thames, Commodore Lanman regales one and all on the maritime history of the river from its early settlement until his “present” time. The Commodore shares stories of life on the river and explains its importance to both the State of Connecticut and the entire nation during times of war and times of peace.

BUY TICKETS

Blowholes, Blubber, & Breaches. Whaling Tales from the Thames

August 6th and 20th | 2:40 pm

Once the second largest whaling port in the world, New London has a rich history of seamen who made their living exploiting the ocean’s bounty. From its early days of sealing to the 1858 departure of the Nile, the ship which made longest whaling voyage on record, over 257 whaling ships making more than 1,100 whaling expeditions sailed out of the Thames River. Through views from the river, you’ll begin to appreciate the life stories of whaling captains and crews, the city’s dependency on the whaling industry, and the vulnerability of the seamen’s families while the men were out at sea … just a few of the thousand stories in the Park.

BUY TICKETS 

Sunset Cruise on the Thames

August 10th | 7:15 pm

August 17th | 7 pm

August 19th | 6:45 pm

August 24th | 6:45 pm

August 26th | 6:45 pm

Experience the stunning natural beauty of a sunset on the Thames River. It's the perfect way to take in the bold colors, see the view of the shore from the water and make some fantastic memories.

BUY TICKETS

Exploring the Thames: Stories from a Colonial Diary and of Growth Along the River

August 12th | 1:05 pm

Joshua Hempsted began his diary in 1711 to keep track of his many business activities, court sessions, ship traffic, travels, and other events significant to New London and Connecticut. He kept a diary until just before his death in 1758. Join members of the Hempsted staff as they move through time and tell stories about John Winthrop Jr, the Rogerenes, the lighthouses, and the Battle of Groton Heights, where Stephen Hempsted was seriously wounded. The tour will include stories of the growth of shipbuilding, the Navy, and the Victorian times when the Harbor View neighborhood of summer cottages included one built by Wm. H. Hempsted, the businesses of Groton Bank, and the Avery-Copp House.

BUY TICKETS

Well-Heeled and Wannabees: The Gilded Age on the Thames

August 13th, 19th, and 27th | 2:40 pm 

In the late 19th century New London and Groton were favorite summer vacation spots for the growing middle class - both the wealthy and the comfortably well off. Among the families summering here was that of Louis Comfort Tiffany, whose career as artist, designer, and glassmaker is chronicled in a new exhibit at the Lyman Allyn Museum and Fredrick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect and designer of New York City's Central Park. Board an historic navy utility boat with a seasoned interpreter to see Eastern Point summer cottages in Groton, elegant homes of financier Morton Plant and publisher Theodore Bodenwein, and hear stories of the vacationers from around the world who enjoyed the region in the late 1800s.

BUY TICKETS

Whites Sails, Black Hands: The African American Experience on the Thames

August 26th | 1:05 pm 

Beginning in 1639 when the first enslaved person arrived in Connecticut, the number of persons of color steadily increased in New London County. Every town in New London County had a significant percent of African Americans and people of mixed race living and working in them, however, their stories are not always told. This tour will explore the stories of a fugitive slave, Black Revolutionary Patriots, Black Governors and Whalers, the Amistad and more.

BUY TICKETS

UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE BILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY

It's hard to believe that the end of summer break will soon be here, and the Bill Memorial Library will be finishing its Summer Reading program this week. All reading logs, activity sheets, and book reviews must be turned in by 3 pm on Saturday, August 5th.

Other upcoming events at the library include:

A Celebration of Dragons and Unicorns

Tuesday, August 1st, 1 pm

Come celebrate these fantastic creatures at the library! This event includes crafts, snacks, games, and more. No registration is required.

My Summer Course in the Galapagos

Tuesday, August 8th, 6 pm

College student Ky Connal-Nicolaou gives a presentation on their recent trip to the Galapagos Islands. Registration is required.

Friends Night Out at the Bill Memorial Library

Tuesday, August 15th, 6 pm

Enjoy a concert on the library lawn featuring father/daughter duo Azalea Drive! Treats will be available for purchase from UBartending's So Delicious Food Truck. Free to attend, but please RSVP by calling the library at 860-445-0392 or using this ticketing link so the library knows how many guests to expect.

UPCOMING SHOWS AT HYGIENIC ART

Hygienic Art is currently displaying two shows in its galleries: Subconsciounal Encounters, a joint exhibition of three painters and sculptors, and FoundBeauty, an annual exhibition of six resident artists at Hygienic Art. Both shows will be on display through August 26th. For more information, click here.

Upcoming events include:

Open Mic!

Thursday, August 3rd, 5 pm

A monthly event hosted by Dame Fk and Elijah Pysyk, this open mic event welcomes all talents. Five-minute time slots for comedians and poets, two-song slots for musicians. Free, donations accepted.

Soulshot with Red Lion

Thursday, August 3rd, 6:30 pm

Get a taste of the reggae nights that were once all the rage in New London clubs! This event welcomes two of the region's top reggae acts, Soulshot and Red Lion, to the Hygienic Art Park. Free show.

An Evening with Author Janet Lemond

Saturday, August 5th, 5 pm

Janet Lemond will host a reading from her self-published debut book A Tour of the Goodspeed Opera House in the Hygienic Galleries. Janet has been guiding visitors around the Goodspeed Opera House since her retirement in 2018, and wrote this book to complement the tours. Free event.

A Musical Journey with Accordion and Fiddle

Sunday, August 6th, 3 p.m.

World Champion accordionist Cory Pesaturo and World Champion fiddler Mari Black team up to present a dynamic exploration of music from around the globe. Get tickets

Komboloko

Thursday, August 10th, 6:30 pm

Art Clinton returns with his Orquesta Komboloko performing in tribute to Willie Colon and Hector Lavoe at this free event at the beautiful Art Park in downtown New London. 

Fashion Carnival

Saturday, August 12th, 7pm

New London's premier fashion event includes an evening of style, music, and cool vendors, while also giving a platform for the area’s independent designers and models to present their talents. This year's event showcases the best of New London's Streetwear. Get tickets

Glaucoma Suspect

Thursday, August 17th, 6:30 pm

Join us for a night of reggae vibes with this killer crew. Glaucoma Suspect performs all things roots rock reggae and some in between. Free show.

Johnny Nicholas and Katie Shore

Friday, August 18th, 7 pm

During the pandemic, lead fiddle player and vocalist Katie Shore of the 10-time Grammy Award winning band Asleep at the Wheel teamed up with Grammy nominated Johnny Nicholas. The dynamic duo gives a high energy performance of blues, Southwest Louisiana soul, Texas swing, and honky tonk. Get tickets

Screening Room

Saturday, August 19th, 6 pm

The Screening Room is New London’s premiere Independent Film Festival featuring works from both emerging and established filmmakers. Due to its high demand and popularity, the Screening Room is returning to the Hygienic - this time inside the Art Park! $5 suggested donation.

Billy Wylder and Number One Babe

Thursday, August 24th, 6:30 pm

Billy Wylder's music music weaves together American folk and rock with sensibilities from the Sahara Desert, exploring new musical space akin to Devendra Banhart, Beck, and Tinariwen. Free show.

Naked Canvas: Candyland

Saturday, August 26th, 7 pm

Returning for its seventh year, this live body painting competition features a Candyland theme with life-sized candy decor and models painted to resemble characters from a candy-filled fantasy world. Artists have five hours to paint their models before they walk the runway. Get tickets

EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS AT LYMAN ALLYN ART MUSEUM

On Saturday, August 26th, the Lyman Allyn Art Museum will debut Blue Seeds: A Reflection on Foster Care. Artist Jac Lahav works with immersive vining sculptures and abstract painting that intertwine the themes of fostering and the nurturing power of plants. Through vibrant blue installations that envelop and beguile, Lahav encourages viewers to explore the complex layers of human connection and growth.

Other upcoming events include:

Members' Garden Party

Thursday, August 3rd, 5 - 6:30 pm

The Lyman Allyn Art Museum's annual garden party celebrates its members with great food, drink, music, and cheer in a beautiful garden setting. Free for members, who can also bring two guests at no charge; additional guests $10 each.

Free First Saturday - Cool Style

Saturday, August 5th, 11 am - 1 pm

Admission to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum is free all day, and the studio will be open for a children's craft! This month's theme is "Cool Style," inviting visitors to celebrate the fun fashion featured in Barkley L. Hendricks in New London and design a retro outfit for yourself using mixed media materials.

Looking at Legacy: Reflecting on Barkley L. Hendricks with Connecticut Arts Leaders

Friday, August 11th, 5 - 7:30 pm

A panel symposium reflecting on Barkley L. Hendricks’ artistic legacy and on issues of place, community, and teaching in the arts and humanities. The panel will consider Barkley L. Hendricks’ artistic contributions and resonance in this region, discussing the role of the humanities, teaching, community, race and representation, and the importance of art. Free to attend.

Random Access Gallery Talk

Thursday, August 17th, 5:30 - 7 pm

This gallery talk of Random Access with featured artist John T. Hill and colleague Leonard Stokes. Random Access is a collection of John T. Hill’s photographs taken over 70 years, showing the remarkable scope and empathy of his vision. Members $10, non-members $15.

Science Saturday

Saturday, August 19th, 11 am - 1 pm

This monthly drop-in activity designed for ages 7-11 encourages participants to explore the intersections between art and science. This month's theme is "Sports Geometry," based on Barkley Hendricks' use of the geometry of basketball courts to create wonderful works of art. Create your own collage that reflects the geometry of your favorite sport. 

Barkley L. Hendricks in New London Gallery Talk

Wednesday, August 30th, 5:30 - 7 pm

A gallery talk exploring the exhibition Barkley L. Hendricks in New London with Susan Hendricks and Lyman Allyn Curator Tanya Pohrt. Learn more about the life of Barkley L. Hendricks and hear some of the stories behind the works on view. Members $10, non-members $15.

UPCOMING SHOWS AT THE GARDE ARTS CENTER

New London Big Band

Thursday, August 10th, 7:30 pm

Sean Nelson's New London Big Band, featuring 17 of the finest musicians in New England, returns to the Garde stage to perform the recently discovered, unrecorded music of Harry James and his Orchestra, written for him by Thad Jones. For this performance, the New London Big Band will be joined by L.A.-based trumpeter Wayne Bergeron and New York drummer John Riley. Get tickets

Amos Lee

Thursday, August 17th, 7:30 pm

With one foot in the real world and the other in a charmed dimension of his own making, Amos Lee creates the rare kind of music that’s emotionally raw yet touched with a certain magical quality. On his eighth album, Dreamland, he documents his real-world struggles (alienation, anxiety, loneliness, despair), an outpouring born from deliberate and often painful self-examination. Mutlu, a fellow Philadelphia artist, is the special guest for the evening. Get tickets

Croce Plays Croce

Thursday, September 14th, 7:30 pm

A.J. Croce performs Croce Plays Croce, a special night of music featuring a complete set of classics by his late father Jim Croce, some of his own tunes, and songs that influenced both him and his father. Jim Croce was an American folk singer with a short-lived professional recording and touring career, and decades of posthumous fame as one of the greatest songwriters and artists ever. A.J.'s own career has spanned 30 years and produced 10 well-received studio albums.

Get tickets

OCEANOGRAPHIC CRUISES WITH PROJECT OCEANOLOGY

Project Oceanology has one last oceanographic cruise available, running from 1 - 3:30 pm on Tuesday, August 15th. This outing provides hands-on experiences aboard the EnviroLab research vessel. During the two-and-a-half hour cruise, you'll learn more about the organization's environmental monitoring program and how to use a wide range of oceanographic equipment.

For more information, click here.

FREE MEAL SITES OPEN TO CONNECTICUT'S CHILDREN

End Hunger CT! is a federally-funded program administered by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) that provides free, nutritious meals to all children 18-and-under at hundreds of meal sites across the state through August 11th, no questions asked. Meal sites in the City of Groton, CT are open Monday-Friday and include:

• River Front Center at 476 Thames Street 
• Breakfast Time: 8-9 am
• Lunch Time: noon to 12:30pm
• Thames River Magnet School at 250 Brandegee Ave. 
• Breakfast Time: 8:30 - 9 am
• Lunch Time: 11:30 am - 12:30 pm
• Branford Manor at 37 Mather Ave.
• Breakfast Time: 9:15 - 9:45 am
• Lunch Time: 11 - 11:30am 

For more information, please visit End Hunger Connecticut! - Join Our Fight Today (endhungerct.org)

WOMEN'S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL EQUITY GRANT HAS REOPENED!

The Women’s Business Development Council’s Opportunity Fund is pleased to announce the opening of a new application period for the Equity Match Grant (EMG) Program. Cash grants between $2,500 and $10,000 will be awarded to qualified women-owned small businesses in Connecticut for clearly-defined projects that will have a measurable impact on the business, its growth and profitability.

The seventh round of Equity Match Grant applications opens on Monday, August 14th, and will remain open through September 27th. The application will also be offered in Spanish.

For more information click here please or tune in to an information session. These sessions are the best way to prepare to apply for a WBDC Equity Match Grant. Join WBDC staff to learn about eligibility requirements, what the grant can be used for, the application process and timeline.

• Monday, August 14th, noon to 1 pm | REGISTER 
• Wednesday, August 23rd, 11 am to noon | REGISTER 
• Monday, August 28th, 5:30 - 6:30 pm | REGISTER 
• Thursday, August 31st, noon to 1 pm | REGISTER 
• Wednesday, September 6th, 5:30 - 6:30 pm | REGISTER 
• Tuesday, September 12th, 10-11 am | REGISTER  
• Thursday, September 14th, noon to 1 pm | REGISTER  
• Tuesday, September 19th, noon to 1 pm | REGISTER  

OPEN AIR 2023 AT AVERY POINT

The Alexey von Schlippe Gallery is currently closed, but visitors are are encouraged to view its Open Air 2023 exhibition of outdoor artwork.

Open Air 2023 will be on display on the shoreline walk of the University of Connecticut Avery Point Campus through September 14th.

2023 STATE NATURAL HAZARD MIGRATION PLAN UPDATE

Every five years, the State of Connecticut updates its Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan to meet Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) standards. Connecticut is currently leading a plan update for 2023. 

The Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan is meant to guide the actions that Connecticut will take to reduce risk from disasters over the next five years and beyond. This Plan includes an assessment of the natural hazards that can impact the State and a strategy to reduce the impacts and build resilience. It will be integrated with new and existing state-level plans, resilience programs, and local and multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plans throughout Connecticut.

This year, the Plan will also take a much closer look at how future conditions—including climate, population, and development—will impact the hazards and how equity can be further elevated and integrated into the strategy.

What is Hazard Mitigation?

Hazard mitigation is any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to life and property from hazards, such as flooding, winter storms, or hurricanes. Disasters can cause a loss of life, damage to buildings and infrastructure, and have long-lasting impacts on a community’s economic, social, and environmental well-being. To help prevent this, mitigation actions are taken, such as public education and outreach programs, elevating buildings above potential floodwaters, or strengthening building codes to ensure new buildings can withstand hurricane-force winds.

The purpose of mitigation planning is to both protect people and structures from damage and to minimize the costs of disaster response and recovery. Connecticut is focused on proactive hazard mitigation planning to reduce risk and create a safer, more disaster-resilient communities.

Get Involved

Public participation is critical for a successful natural hazard mitigation plan. The valuable knowledge from Connecticut residents and businesses helps to produce a plan that reflects what matters most to people living and working throughout the state. Take the Public Hazard Mitigation Survey and/ or explore some of the natural hazard risk areas in Connecticut and tell us about natural hazard problems areas you’ve noticed.

For more information, please visit 2023 State Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (ct.gov)

INTRODUCING "GROTON CITY — HISTORY IN THE MAKING"

With the support of the City Council, as well as input from residents and business leaders, the city has launched an economic development and lifestyle brand: “Groton City — History in the Making.”

The purpose of the brand is to highlight Groton City as a distinct community, recognize the ways it has contributed to the character and identity of the United States, and spotlight how our community continues to play a role in today's innovations.

Plans are underway for a formal brand launch ceremony on Groton City Day in August. The brand will become more visible in the coming months on banners, signage, advertising, and branded items.