The first commercial not-blockbusting movie filmed in Norwich, CT that I have found was in May of 1916 called “The Romance of Norwich.”

The film was financed by Hydris Film Studios of Mt. Vernon, NY. The largely amateur cast was headed by Margaret Kelly and David Sheehan. Not surprisingly I was not able to locate a match in the current IMDb.

“The Romance of Norwich” played for two weeks at the Auditorium Theatre. The members of Norwich, CT society could see themselves on the street by the corner of the Shannon Building and in the crowd in front of Saint Patricks Church during the wedding scene. There was even a brief glimpse of the locals coming out of the Auditorium Theatre after viewing the pre-view production.

According to the newspapers of the time, my only source of information, it was a really excellent film due its clear and distinct pictures in every scene and the well-known and talented amateur cast of Norwich people.

Has anyone got any family stories they would like to share of an ancestor being in the film? I wrote the current Hydris studios but never heard back and doubt they are one in the same.

I haven’t been able to get to the NY archives to search around there for a while. So help! Lets join forces and see if we can’t discover a copy of the film and have a local showing.

The Connecticut State Film Commission (https://portal.ct.gov/choosect/film-office) site was not particularly helpful because I was looking for past information and they are trying to focus on the future. I will note that the 15 photos submitted by Norwich, CT to represent Norwich, CT are horrible and do not do any justice to the city. I do not have enough words to express how disappointed I am in how the City of Norwich is represented as a dark, defeated and dismal place. They look like photos I might take and that is no compliment. The photo of the Wauregan ballroom is the outside of the building. Dodd Stadium is a photo of the building and not the field and its blurry as if taken from a moving car. The Norwichtown Green is a photo of the sign. A photo of Yantic Street? Not a photo of the lovely and unique bridge in Yantic? Not a single photo of the 500 acre Mohegan Park? The marketers of Norwich, CT couldn’t find anything scenic or unique or a pretty vista in Taftville, Occum, Laurel Hill, Plain Hill, Yantic, Norwichtown or Mohegan Park. Seriously. Call me anytime for a tour of Norwich, CT so that the Connecticut State Film Commission photo library site can be updated. Photography is one more skill that I do not have but I can recognize a variety of interesting places, vistas, and architectures. Norwich, CT has hundreds of residents placing photos of Norwich, CT on Facebook, ask them to submit some untouched, innovative photos of various sections of the City. If there are limits on the Film Commission site as to the number of photos allowed choose some photos that show every possible section of the city to its best advantage. Responsible leadership understands that it’s important to ask for help when dealing with something new or out of the ordinary. Norwich, CT needs leaders that know how to market a city in a positive light and be ready, willing and able to use and take advantage of all it has to offer.

When a movie company comes to a film site in addition to the money made from the licenses, permits, rentals, human resources, publicity etc. there is the site restoration. That is why so many cities and towns fight so desperately to be a film site. It’s pretty much a film industry contract standard that any location used by a film company must be restored to its previous or better condition. That may mean fresh new street paving or road barriers or fences, fresh paint, or sidewalk repair. Sorry about the rant but I would like to see more of Norwich, CT in a variety of medias and not just as the dismal home zombies or our main street being used to represent a back alley of a larger city.

Isn’t there a group in Norwich, CT that would like to sponsor a Norwich, CT movie weekend with screenings of Holiday for Heroes (2019), Everybody Wins (1990), Remains (2011), The Romance of Norwich (1916), Wishin’ and Hopin’ (2014) or how about “Parrish” (1961) written by Mildred Savage of Norwich, CT. It might make a great fundraiser for new or additional Christmas Lights, or 4^th of July Fireworks.

Thank you for reading and sharing my history and Norwich Community blog freely with your family or friends or anyone you think might be interested or in a position to take on some of the suggested projects. Don’t hesitate to contact me for further information. I am happy to pass along anything I can. Together we can make a difference. Email comments on this blog to berylfishbone@yahoo.com View my past columns at http://www.norwichbulletin.com/section/blogs

I was listening to something over the internet today and had a realization. Sometimes there is good out of the bad. I think I can safely say that the Covid pandemic has been a bad thing for most people. But some people have discovered new products and businesses they never imagined before.

Some businesses made changes they didn’t think they were quite ready for and surprised themselves. Schools discovered that there were wonderful ways to bring the classroom into homes and homes into classrooms. That distance learning is different but possible with a little imagination and practice. Change is not always a bad thing.

I love a variety of music and the pandemic has given me the opportunity to hear, see and visit a variety of tiny, inventive and very personal concerts from around the globe. I have had the opportunity to see and hear musicians play their instruments in their kitchens, hallways and front lawns. At a concert I may hear a particular soloist but thanks to a virtual concert I have seen their face or their fingers on their instrument. Things people in an audience cannot see. In person only performances have been heard and seen by wider audiences than ever imagined.

I have heard the voices of musicians. I have now had the opportunity to observe musicians switch from playing one instrument to another. With grateful thanks I have listened to artists play together from their homes in different countries. Things we would never have had the opportunity to hear before covid.

Through the magic of the internet I have been able to participate in meetings across the globe. Meetings where it is expected that people ask difficult questions as answers and solutions are being sought. I have been privileged to virtually attend meetings, lessons and demonstrations of cultural diversity. Respecting other cultures is more than just about throwing a party with balloons and costumes. Education must be the primary piece of a cultural exchange. Education for businesses is key for understanding and success. Everyone involved must have respect for the others.

It is long past time for Norwich, CT residents to recognize diversity in ways beyond foreign food adjusted for the American palate. Returning to normal from the depths and darkness of covid is an opportunity for members of the Norwich, CT culturally diverse community to share and shine with demonstrations of skills, talents, abilities and products.

2021 is not just a new year it should also be a new beginning for us all.

Thank you for reading and sharing my history and Norwich Community blog freely with your family or friends or anyone you think might be interested or in a position to take on some of the suggested projects. Don't hesitate to contact me for further information. I am happy to pass along anything I can. Together we can make a difference. Email comments on this blog to berylfishbone@yahoo.com View my past columns at http://www.norwichbulletin.com/section/blogs

It’s that time of the year when we keep our eyes to the sky. During the day we look for clouds and at night we look at the planets and the stars and the occasional satellites we think are falling stars and meteors.

But when I am with my neighbors we check out the holiday lights and the rooftops. You never know who might be practicing a night landing. Don’t you dare roll your eyes at me I am very serious.

I live by Backus Hospital where LifeStar helicopters land and lift off during the day and during the night with someones most meaningful and precious cargo. But, at this time of year, in addition to the comings and goings of the helicopter, up on the roof top can clearly be seen for miles is the Backus Hospital Christmas Tree.

With its takeover by Hartford Healthcare many of the strong traditions of a neighborhood hospital have been lost so its been wonderful to see the yearly tradition of the tree being kept. Thank you Hartford Healthcare for retaining this small symbol of hope, health and peace in Norwich, CT.

On a personal note, I am looking forward to seeing the fundraising begin for new seasonal lights for downtown Norwich, CT and perhaps some “Welcome,” or “Happy Holidays” lights at each of the gateways to the City of Norwich. Norwich, CT has more than one entrance leading into the city and it would be a true boon to the businesses of the City if the travelers on the roads were presented with positive reinforcements of their welcome to the City.

Yes, the lights are expensive, and it may take many on-going efforts to raise the necessary funding. Complaining is easy but being a part of the solution requires lots of minds, lots of different opinions, lots of effort and and lots of dedication. Join forces with your family, friends, neighbors and groups to be an active participant in making the City of Norwich, CT all that you want it to be. Don’t wait until next year, let’s start now.

Thank you for reading and sharing my history and Norwich Community blog freely with your family or friends or anyone you think might be interested or in a position to take on some of the suggested projects. Don't hesitate to contact me for further information. I am happy to pass along anything I can. Together we can make a difference. Email comments on this blog to berylfishbone@yahoo.com View my past columns at http://www.norwichbulletin.com/section/blogs

Is your 2020 – 21 Norwich, CT group or organization interested in a Covid safe fundraiser? Maybe there is interest in raising funds for new holiday street lights for the various entry points to the City of Norwich, CT or the downtown? It’s OK to raise money during different events throughout the year. It’s been done before – honest!

On Saturday, June 18, 1994 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, sponsored by the Norwich Tourism Commission for only a contribution of $10.00 the public was invited to tour 7 lovely private home gardens, visit the Rose Show and Tea sponsored by the Women’s City Club and view the Norwich Memorial Rose Garden and the proceeds benefited the Downtown Beautification Projects.

Jeanne White was the Chairperson. Johnny London and Tom Nevers were in charge of publicity. Erwin Goldstein wrote the descriptions of the gardens. Karen Gilliland was the chief hostess. Jaclyn Finocchio created the delicate art work. Henry Dixon directed the signage and Olive Buddington, Nancy DePietro, Joy Leary, Marjorie Mandell, and Eunice Robbins were the ticket selling team.

I am not certain which of the listed gardens, other than the Norwich, CT Memorial Rose Garden still exist today but I am certain there are some Norwich, CT gardeners that would be delighted to share their gardens. They just might need to be asked. Maybe the garden centers might like an opportunity to show off their technical know how of how to choose types of plants for certain areas. Possibly there are some yard and lawn care companies with clients that might allow visitors to see their professional workmanship.

Imagine the interest to be generated by a promotional article asking the Norwich residents for examples of how small spaces can be “utilized to grow a host of shrubs, perennials, herbs and annuals.” There are homes with delicate courtyards with nooks, statuary and small pools. In another promotional piece explain you are seeking a “beautiful historic home, graced by a large elegant garden.” In whose neighborhood can an example of “Raised beds, container plantings, richly organic soil, and an ample greenhouse be found?” Where can an example of a “cottage garden” or a “dynamic, colorful yard” or “medicinal herb and flower beds” or a “comforting varied landscape” be found?

Gardens are a way to encourage the diversity of the residents of the City of Norwich, CT to shine! Possibly a tour or program could be created addressing the various approaches to gardening with an emphasis on gardening by different cultures. There are English, French, Italian, Greek, Japanese, and Chinese style gardens hidden away in Norwich, CT. Maybe they are just waiting for someone to show an interest?

June 2021 is six months away. It is time to start working on our future.

Thank you for reading and sharing my history and Norwich Community blog freely with your family or friends or anyone you think might be interested or in a position to take on some of the suggested projects. Don't hesitate to contact me for further information. I am happy to pass along anything I can. Together we can make a difference. Email comments on this blog to berylfishbone@yahoo.com View my past columns at http://www.norwichbulletin.com/section/blogs

In 2020 it was finally agreed that the light displays in the downtown were worn out and no longer suitable for display. So maybe its time to do a little fundraising so new lights can be purchased by next Christmas. If we start now it can be done. No need to form another committee how about those in charge of such civic matters have a meeting and choose a leader.

It is expected that there will be grants, donations and gifts from the usual assortment of banks, companies and of course Norwich Public Utilities but where will the rest of the money come from? How will it be raised?

Yes you can have another bar crawl, yard sale, bake sale and Night at the Casino. Those are all very nice. Very safe and extremely boring. Many of you have heard this before. If you have stop reading now.

I am proposing, once again, an “Elf School.” The schools are very popular in Europe and it is where I borrowed most of the ideas from. “Elf School” is not an original idea. But it does take a good bit of planning and organization. The hardest jobs are 1. Finding a location with enough room for multiple small groups to meet at the same time. 2. Choosing the date or dates. 3. Selecting the classes and age groups. 4. Deciding on the price or donation. 5. Selecting the instructors for the time slots. [It’s harder than you think to tell people they have not been chosen as a presenter.]

I have found it helpful to have multiple organizations join forces for the day. Each group taking on a specific age group. This breakdown is strictly for example Ages 2 – 6, Ages 6 – 12, Ages 12 – 16. Adults, Seniors.

Twenty minute sessions are the most popular but some of the adult and senior sessions can last an hour. Depending on topic. Don’t be afraid to break rules. Remember – YOU are making the rules. DO what works best for you, and the age group you are servicing. On occasion some places there were multiple weekend presentations – 1. for children, 1. for adults with child care available 1. for Seniors and special classes.

If you are fortunate to have a culturally diverse community invite them in at the earliest planning stages. Use their knowledge, experience, talents and stories to help promote your event. Build excitement about your event in the community. Get the community talking about your event. Supply your newspapers with stories and photographs of the various groups preparing for the event, exchanging information, training, practicing. Discuss, discuss, discuss individual and group vision of the event.

The event for ages 2 – 6 should not last more than two hours maximum. Examples of options – How to brush your teeth, How to walk like an elf, Elf story, Elf Art, Elf Games, Santas Naughty/Nice List Survey (Extra Teen volunteers can be really helpful here)

Ages 6 – 12 and 12 – 16 should have the most options. Don’t hesitate here to allow all ages to decide what and where their interests lay. I split the ages but only for the sake of my convenience to make certain I had something for everyone. All ages enjoy listening to story tellers those that share from their head and those that read from books. Try not to use the same person. Mix up the people and the stories. Story tellers are a great promotional tool, so are photos of recipes that will be brought to the exchange, show off the pretty party trays someone will be teaching how to make. Some of the presentations were expanded for Adults and Seniors. Here is a smattering of potential presentations you and your group can look into. It is your event. You are in charge. Go wild! Make Santa proud!

• Research and tell holiday and little people stories from different cultures and countries.
• Teach food customs of different cultures and countries holiday treats
• Teach how to convert recipes they can share from the measurements of different countries and Indian Tribes.
• Re-enforce everyone can move with the Santa Shuffle, How to Walk like an Elf for all ages
• Practice public speaking
• Demonstrate how to wear the funky hat and keep your cheeks rosy
• How do you recognize Santa
• Elf names
• Spring, Summer and winter chores for elves
• The qualities of good elfing
• Elf Hospitality
• Making attractive refreshment trays
• Pot Luck Supper Recipe Exchange
• Baked goods decorating
• Toy assembly
• Family Photography Tips
• Earn certificates
• Bicycle safety
• Skateboarding for beginners
• Make, learn and teach crafts
• Skills of Laughter (communication, public speaking and presentation) with silly reindeer and elf jokes
• Elves and Hidden People Research Study Certificates
• If location has wi-fi there is even a Santas Naughty and Nice List test
• Elf Photo Station
• Outside Games
• Having Fun in the Snow (Practice making snowmen and angels)
• Elf Detection Certification

For more information see what you can find available on Google “Elf Schools” and visit www.Northpole.com

There can be a set fee or free donation container. Depending on what and how many groups and volunteers there are and what they choose to do. I like to see students research and choose how they want to present themselves as elves. Adults could be the fill-ins, helpers and safety. Perhaps do some of the more complicated crafts, cookies and decorating.

Cost to put on this fundraiser, with multiple organizations, and donated space, was less than $100 per organization and the local high school and Little League ran a snack and lunch cafe. I do not know what they spent for their food and supplies.

Thank you for reading and sharing my history and Norwich Community blog freely with your family or friends or anyone you think might be interested or in a position to take on some of the suggested projects. Don't hesitate to contact me for further information. I am happy to pass along anything I can. Together we can make a difference. Email comments on this blog to berylfishbone@yahoo.com View my past columns at http://www.norwichbulletin.com/section/blogs