I was anxious heading into my first karaoke night at The Cellar on Treadwell. I feared I’d encounter hours of off-key wailing followed by audience ridicule or, worse yet, long intimidating silences broken only by the occasional bold soul.…
Items of Import
According to The Japan Times, “zakka” emerged in postwar Japan as a catch-all term for “everyday tools and objects such as kettles, brooms and buckets.” In 2001, the International Herald Tribune noted that latter-day Japan had elevated it to …
Magic Kingdom
Now in its 35th year, Curious Goods New Age Shop in West Haven promises “all those with an open mind a Magical Temple, a repository of secrets, a mystery school, and a safe haven from the everyday world. To those …
Like Fine Wine
I trust the proprietors of Hamden’s Mt. Carmel Wine & Spirits Co. more than I trust my doctor. In decades of frequenting the store, the suggestions I’ve gotten, no matter the price, have never disappointed. The staff—currently including Bob Feinn, …
Shifting Sandwiches
There’s a classic scene in the Oscar-winning 1963 film Tom Jones in which the titular “adopted bastard,” played by Albert Finney, enjoys a succulent meal with actress Joyce Redman that’s clearly not focused on what they’re eating. I was recently …
Hole Story
Yesterday, the nation celebrated a major icon on his day of remembrance—and, understandably, forgot about another. But we here in New Haven have special reason to acknowledge National Bagel Day: the local family that almost singlehandedly made the ring-shaped breadstuff …
Past Experience
It looked like a little home library, with parlor chairs, bookshelves and a Christmas tree. Then I found the slot where I was supposed to give the password…
World Pieces
According to Akil Tanriguden, proprietor of the upmarket Re-Unique Art & Antique Center in Old Saybrook, a certain magic happens when someone enters his shop. “Say you come in looking for a statue of Buddha. If you stay just …