🎓 Secret Societies, Garden Parties, & Trader Joe’s

June 12, 2025

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Hey there! Hope your week’s rolling smoothly—because we’ve got some fun detours ready to spice things up. Whether you're craving a walk through Yale’s secret societies, sipping fancy tea in full spring fashion, or getting way too hyped about a new grocery store, there's something here for you. Check out what’s inside:

🎓 Explore Yale’s iconic campus and hidden secrets
🌸 Garden party vibes at Florence Griswold
🛒 Trader Joe’s is officially coming to Hamden
đź“— This Month in CT History: Connecticut Turns Sour Cars into Sweet Justice
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

Don’t miss out on AARP’s membership special going on right now. For a limited time, get your first full year of membership for just $15 with automatic renewal plus some really cool free gift options.

Here’s what you’ll enjoy with your membership:

  • Everyday Discounts on dining, shopping, gas, and more

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Plus, if you sign up now, you’ll get your choice of a bonus gift: an insulated trunk organizer or a portable power bank.

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A Historic, Self-Guided Adventure Through New Haven

Whether you're a history buff, architecture lover, or just someone who enjoys a good ghost story, this self-guided Yale walking tour brings New Haven’s rich past to life—on your schedule. Powered by a smartphone app, it takes you through iconic landmarks like Battell Chapel, Louis' Lunch (birthplace of the hamburger!), and even the mysterious Skull and Bones tomb.

You’ll visit art museums, peek inside the Beinecke Rare Book Library, and wander through centuries-old cemeteries—all with plenty of time to pause, explore, and snack. If you’ve ever wanted to see Yale like a local (minus the tuition bill), this tour is your perfect weekend play.

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Spring Fashion + Historic Gardens = Peak Vibes

Grab your cutest hat and your most garden-party-ready fit—the Florence Griswold Museum is throwing its annual Garden Luncheon on Friday, June 13, and it’s giving major Bridgerton energy. You’ll dine al fresco surrounded by blooms while supporting the care of these nationally recognized grounds. Think florals, friends, and feel-good philanthropy.

More details coming soon, but mark your calendar now—this one’s a seasonal staple.

đź›’ TRADER JOE’S COMING TO HAMDEN

Hamden’s grocery scene is getting a serious glow-up—Trader Joe’s is moving into the old LA Fitness building on Skiff Street. The fan-favorite chain will take up 12,500 square feet of the space, and renovations are already underway.

Mayor Lauren Garrett confirmed it, and let’s be honest—we’re already planning our frozen aisle haul. Catch you in line for the cauliflower gnocchi.

Where dining meets drama in the best way possible

At Marcello’s Italian Eatery in Monroe, pasta isn’t just a meal—it’s an event.

Picture a giant wheel of premium cheese, ignited tableside with a splash of grain alcohol, sending up a dramatic flame as it melts into a creamy sauce. Fresh linguini is then swirled right in, creating a rich, velvety masterpiece.

To finish? A lavish sprinkle of shaved truffle that turns every bite into pure indulgence. It’s no wonder this dish is taking social media by storm—it’s a must-see (and must-taste!) culinary performance.

🍝 Go see what the buzz is about—one bite and you’ll be hooked!

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If your idea of a good time includes tall ships, 19th-century village vibes, and hands-on history, then Mystic Seaport Museum is calling your name—and this Groupon deal makes it a no-brainer.

Located in charming Mystic, Connecticut, this 19-acre time capsule isn’t your average museum. It’s a living, breathing port town straight out of the 1870s. You can watch blacksmiths hammer away, climb aboard the Charles W. Morgan (the world’s last wooden whaling ship), and wander through exhibits that bring maritime history to life. There’s even a planetarium where you can learn how sailors used the stars to navigate.

Whether you're wrangling kids, impressing a date, or just escaping reality for a few hours, this is the kind of adventure that makes history feel cool again.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU BEEN HERE YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

The Nation’s First “Lemon Law” Put Power Back in Drivers’ Hands

Back in June 1982, Connecticut became the first state to squeeze justice out of a sour situation — by passing America’s original “Lemon Law.” Frustrated by a growing number of defective new cars, state lawmakers took action to protect consumers from getting stuck with costly clunkers.

Led by rookie legislator John J. Woodcock III, the bill — officially called “An Act Concerning Automobile Warranties” — required manufacturers to fix major defects under warranty within four tries or offer a refund or replacement. It was a bold move, especially since a similar proposal had just flopped in California.

Connecticut’s law didn’t just help local drivers — it inspired change across the country. Today, every U.S. state has some version of a Lemon Law. Over four decades later, Connecticut’s consumer protection legacy still runs strong, proving one sour car can kickstart a nationwide movement.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

🛍️ Big Retail Energy at Westfarms Mall

Westfarms Mall is shaking up its shopping scene with the arrival of trendy newcomers like Windsor, Jamba, Zumiez, Gorjana, and NYC's Caffé Arrone. Alongside store makeovers and major awards from local organizations, the mall is flexing hard as a central Connecticut retail powerhouse.

🍝 The Farm Italy Sprouts at Mohegan Sun

Mohegan Sun just got a fresh taste of Italy. The Farm Italy, from restaurateur John Tunney, has taken over the old Ballo space with countryside vibes, elevated decor, and classic Italian dishes served daily. Yes, there’s Aperol. Yes, there’s mocktails. Yes, we’re already hungry.

âš˝ Bridgeport Stadium Still Kicking

Despite the lack of state funds this session, supporters say the dream of a pro soccer stadium in Bridgeport is alive. The Connecticut United FC aims to hit the field in 2026, with plans for a stadium, housing, and hotel still in motion — even if the funding game is going into overtime.

Thanks!

Thanks for checking out today’s newsletter — we’re glad you came along for the ride! If you liked what you read, feel free to share it with a friend or two (or ten).

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