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The Coventry 300th Anniversary Parade division winners are…

October 8, 2012 Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

The Community Pride Award in the 1900s Division of Coventry’s 300th Anniversary Parade, held Sept. 29 2012, was the Coventry Agriculture Committee float. Photo courtesy of the 300th Anniversary Committee.

Coventry’s 300th Anniversary Parade Committee recently announced the Community Pride Award winners from each of 4 divisions in the 300th Anniversary Parade held on Sept. 29, 2012.

Winners were judged on the basis of creativity, authenticity, enthusiasm and entertainment … and the quality and variety put forth by the participants made the decision difficult.

The Coventry High School Band was named the division winner for “2000 and Beyond” in the 300th Anniversary Parade held on Sept. 29, 2012. Photo courtesy of parade committee.

Coventry, CT residents Carol Kent and Charlotte Andersen were the judges.

“Everyone really stepped up to the plate to put on an excellent parade,” said Parade Committee Co-Chair Joan Lewis. “The judges really had their work cut out for them, and we thank them for their efforts at the reviewing stand.”

The winners of the Community Pride Award in each Division are:

1700s Division: Governor’s Foot Guard Band

1800s Division: Museum of CT Glass float

1900s Division: Coventry Agricultural Committee float

2000 and Beyond Division: Coventry High School Band

In addition, the judges awarded a special “Most Popular” award to the Booth & Dimock Library Book Cart Drill Team for their creativity in preparing a synchronized book cart routine – a crowd favorite at the event. Photo courtesy of the parade committee.

Winners will be presented with plaques commemorating their accomplishment at a date to be scheduled later this fall.

The parade was one of the major highlights in the year-long celebration of Coventry’s 300th Anniversary. To view a slide show of the parade, visit the town web site at http://www.coventryct.org.

Two additional 300th Anniversary events were held on Oct. 6, “Tea & Timeless Threads”— a formal tea and fashion show with a focus on the in-styles spanning the last 300 years and an authentic 1880 funeral service with with the casket conveyed from church to cemetery by costumed re-enactors, with commentary on changes in practices from the 19th century to the present.

For more information about Coventry’s 300th Anniversary, visit the Town’s website at http://www.coventryct.org

Posted October 8, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News. https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews and find us on our NEW Twitter page at HTNP News (@HTNPNews )

Take a walk, in Lebanon’s Heritage Garden

August 15, 2012 Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

While there are many good reasons to visit Lebanon, CT, including the beautiful town green – where you will see people jogging and strolling year-round – if you are a garden lover, you might want to visit the Heritage Garden.

It’s a small garden, but chock full of history and beautiful plants and it’s located at the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House and Museum (right on the green).

The museum, itself, is interesting for its information about the Revolutionary War era and the three generations of Trumbulls who are an important part of Connecticut history.

Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. (1740–1809) was General George Washington’s secretary during the American Revolution, and later was an eight-term governor of Connecticut.

The garden adds to the museum experience.

You can park at the back of the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House and walk over to the garden. You will notice a mailbox next to the entry arbor and inside are pamphlets with information about the plant choices in the Heritage Garden.

Basically, the garden is grouped according to three time periods – Victorian, Colonial and Contemporary.

In the Victorian section, which reflects the “parterre” style of that time, you will find such plants as buddleia, phlox, peonies and dusty miller.

The Colonial section of the garden reflects the kitchen gardens of that time, so it includes herbs such as chives, hyssop, borage and lavender.

Flowers include yarrow, hollyhocks, coreopsis and boltonia – and there are grape vines and morning glories on the split-trail fence.

By the way, the adjacent open fields create a beautiful backdrop for the garden.

The Contemporary section of the garden contains some plantings that, while more common in today’s gardens and landscaping, actually have their origins in the Colonial era.

This part of the garden includes hibiscus, ornamental grass, astilbe and a dwarf maple.

The Heritage Garden was created through a collaboration of the Jonathan Trumbull Junior House Museum Committee and the Lebanon Garden Club.

While you’re there, depending on the day of the week and the time of day you go, you can also visit the West Green Farm for fresh fruits and vegetables. They are open to the public Monday through Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

And at the end of the green is the Lebanon General Store where you can buy a sandwich and cold beverages.

While many flowers fade as the summer comes to an end, the seed heads of these are still lovely – at the Heritage Garden, Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House and Museum, Lebanon CT. Photo copyright 2012 Brenda Sullivan

If you happen to be there on a Saturday between 9 a.m. and noon, from now until Oct. 13, you can also visit the Lebanon Farmers Market next to the library – just up the road from the town green.
If you visit Lebanon, please share your experiences with us in the comment section.

Posted August 15, 2012

Hum along… with Singin’ in the Rain at the Capitol Theater Arts Academy

August 1, 2012 Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

The students at Capitol Theater Arts Academy (CTAA) in Willimantic, CT will present public performances of the award-winning musical, Singin’ in the Rain on Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 9, 10 and 11, at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Aug. 11.

The students at Capitol Theater Arts Academy (CTAA) will present public performances of the award-winning musical, Singin’ in the Rain on Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 9, 10 and 11, at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Aug. 11.

The Academy – an arts magnet school – is located in downtown Willimantic at the beautifully renovated, air-conditioned Capitol Theater, 896 Main St.

Featuring 43 students, ages 8-15, CTAA’s Summer Musical Theater Program includes students from Amston (in Hebron), Chaplin, Columbia, Colchester, Coventry, Hampton, Manchester, Mansfield (including Storrs, Mansfield Center), Norwich, Scotland, South Windsor, Tolland and Windham (including North Windham and Willimantic).

Regular tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and children under 12.

To order your tickets now, please call EASTCONN’s Capitol Theater Box Office between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, at 860-465-5636.

The box office window is also open 45 minutes before show time for walk-up ticket sales if still available.

This production is sponsored by the Savings Institute.

Posted August 1, 2012

Deadline extended to enter Coventry photo contest

July 29, 2012 Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

The deadline to enter the photo contest sponsored by the Coventry Tercentenary Committee has been extended to Sept. 30, 2012.

There’s still time! The Coventry 300th Anniversary Committee is sponsoring a photo contest as part of the commemoration of the town’s Tercentenary celebration in 2012.

The theme of the contest is “Coventry through the Seasons,” and the deadline for mailing your entries has been extended to Sep. 30.

Entries from amateur photographers [you do not have to be a Coventry resident] will be judged in two categories: Youth Amateur, grade 1 through high school senior and Adult Amateur.

In addition, there are five categories of competition within each age category:

Best Springtime View of Coventry

Best Summertime View of Coventry

Best Autumn View of Coventry

Best Wintertime View of Coventry

Best Overall Seasonal View of Coventry

The rules

You may send only one photo per seasonal category.

Photographs cannot be larger than 8×10 inches. Please do not submit slides or negatives or framed photographs.

All photos become the property of the town committee and will be used as it sees fit; they will not be returned.

Also important, please affix the following information to the back of each photo:

Your full name, address, and phone number (whether youth or adult photographer);

The season of the photo and the location in Coventry where it was taken.

Note: Do not print directly on the photograph because this will damage the image.

Photos received without this information – or if the committee cannot read it, so please type it or print it clearly – will be disqualified.

Send your photo entries to 300th Anniversary Committee, Coventry Town Hall, 1712 Main St., Coventry, CT 06238 by Sept. 30.

Please send your photos in a protective envelope with a “Do Not Bend” written on it.

Posted July 29, 2012, based on a press release, with links added by HTNP.com Editor Brenda Sullivan

Related link: A Tercentenary Commemorative Booklet on the Town of Coventry web site – chock full of historic facts, interesting photos, a list of the Tercentenary events, and much more in PDF format (note: you will need Adobe Reader, which can be downloaded for free, to open the documents) http://www.coventryct.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={6E63457A-FDA7-4049-AD97-8DAD263DE9C8}

So much going on in June, where to start?

June 1, 2012 Areawide, Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

Copies of the 2012 Connecticut Trails Day booklet of events are now available in public libraries and can be downloaded from http://www.ctwoodlands.org/CT-TrailsDay2012

Besides Victorian Days in Willimantic (through June 3) and the return of the Coventry Regional Farmers Market on Sunday (June 3), here are a couple of get-out-the-door events coming up: Connecticut Trails Day on June 2-3 and the 8th Annual Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 9.

This year’s theme for Connecticut Trails Day is “America’s Largest TRAILgating Party.” You have a choice of 193 events in 121 towns with more than 540 miles of trails.

Connecticut’s event is part of National Trails Day, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2012.

Activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, running, trail maintenance, kayaking, educational walks, bird watching, geocaching and more.

While public libraries now have copies of the 2012 booklet that lists all the events, you can also download an electronic copy from the web site at http://www.ctwoodlands.org/CT-TrailsDay2012

And you can keep up to date on the Connecticut Forest and Park Assoc. Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CTForestandParkAssociation

The booklet is also handy for discovering hiking, biking and paddling places to explore all summer and fall.

On the Annual Connecticut Open House Day, museums and other historic sites (as well as many artists’ studios) throughout Connecticut open their doors for the season – in many cases offering free admission or free gifts.

The annual event is coordinated by the Connecticut Office of Tourism (a division of the Department of Economic and Community Development).

Here’s just a sample of what you might want to explore in the HTNP.com readership area:

In Ashford, the Willow Tree Pottery studio at 24 Bebbington Road will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pottery will be displayed in the gardens and studio. Visitors receive a handmade amulet or bead of clay. For more info, call 860-287-8056 or visit http://www.willowtreepottery.us

In Chester/Hadlyme, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors can ride for free aboard the Selden III, the second oldest continuously operated ferry service in Connecticut (at 54 Ferry Road/Route 148), which crosses the scenic Connecticut River near the Gillette Castle State Park (former home of the stage actor who made Sherlock Holmes famous). For more information, call 860-526-2743 or click here.

In East Haddam, from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., enjoy free tours of the historic Victorian theater built in 1876, the Goodspeed Opera House, at 6 Main St./Rte. 82. For more information, call 860-873-8668 or visit http://www.goodspeed.org

In East Hampton, visit Sears Park (65 North Main St.) with lovely views of Lake Pocotopaug to enjoy while picnicking – admission is free from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on this day only. For more information, call 860-267-7300 or visit http://www.easthamptonrec.com

In Lebanon, admission is free at the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House Museum (780 Trumbull Hwy/Route 87, on the famous Lebanon Green) – there will be Colonial craft demonstrations, a mounted cavalryman portraying a French Army hussar (renowned for their elegant dress), and refreshments. Learn about the artist famous for his painting of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For more information, call 860-642-7987 or click here And next door at the Lebanon Historical Society Museum, also from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., enjoy Model-T rides, farm animals and hands-on activities.

This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Revolutionary War, about archaeology or other sciences, find out just why people like Prudence Crandall and Jonathan Trumbull are famous, and otherwise discover new sights (and share them with your weekend visitors) in your own back yard – or farther afield, if you like.

One of the advantages of living in a postage-stamp-sized state is that you can drive to pretty much any part of Connecticut in two hours or less. This makes it easier to plan affordable day trips, and keep them short enough for energetic children.

You can explore the different sites that are taking part in Connecticut Open House Day by visiting http://www.ctvisit.com/dontmiss/details/211 But note that this list doesn’t include all the museums (and activities) in the state – if there’s one you’re curious about and you don’t see it on the Visit Connecticut site, call the museum directly and ask what they have planned.

Posted June 1, 2012

Victorian Days this weekend – house tours, high tea, carriage rides

May 31, 2012 Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

Horse-drawn rides past historic Victorian homes are part of the 14th annual Victorian Days activities that run from Thursday, May 31 through Sunday, June 3 (most events are Saturday and Sunday). Photo courtesy of the Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association

Willimantic, Connecticut will invite visitors into some of its 600 Victorian-style homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places during the 14th annual Victorian Days events, which begins Thursday, May 31 and continues through Sunday, June 3.

This very popular event, which draws people from throughout New England, also includes garden tours, unique museum exhibits, live music, art exhibits and Victorian teas that sell out every year.

Victorian Days is sponsored by the Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association, which promotes the preservation of Willimantic’s Victorian past.

Most events take place on Saturday and Sunday.

Willimantic’s Hill Section abounds with old Victorian homes. It is “sort of a hidden treasure,” says event manager Lynn Duval. “It was built when the textile mill industry was at its prime.”

During that era, immigrants came from France, Poland, Ukraine, Ireland and other countries to work at the thread mills, and “their families are still here,” Duval said.

The George Tiffany House on Prospect Street is one of the Victorian-style homes that will be open for tours during the 14th annual Victorian Days, the weekend of June 2-3, 2012. Photo courtesy of Wilimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association

“They all left something here in the community,” she said, and so the Victorian Days weekend also celebrates the diversity of Willimantic’s history.

“People come from all over New England,” Duval said, and “when we bring the people here, they see that Willimantic is kind of a cool town.”

New to this year’s festivities will be Saturday tours of five churches with historically interesting stained glass windows and organs.

“They’re all historic. They all have magnificent stained glass. It’s going to be a beautiful tour,” Duval said.

Thursday – with cooler and less humid weather in the forecast – will start the three-day event with a walking tour of historic Main Street that will include a viewing of the old Franklin Hall Vaudeville Theater.

Friday night, the public can attend a free Classic Brass Band Concert at the First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St. Following the performance will be a large buffet.

The Connecticut Eastern Railroad Museum will take part in the 14th annual Victorian Days the weekend of June 2-3, and will offer 1.5-mile train rides in an open car with benches. Photo of the "round house" courtesy of the Railroad Museum

Saturday and Sunday, visitors can tour Victorian homes, the Willimantic Camp Meeting Association (Saturday, only), the Elks Lodge, the Old Willimantic Cemetery, Windham Mills, the magnificent Garden on the Bridge neighboring the renovated mills and ArtSpace, Wright’s Pleasant Street Garden and the Windham Town Hall with its newly installed exhibit, “Connecticut’s Connection to the Titanic.”

The Windham Textile & History Museum/Visitor’s Center, the Windham Historical Society at Jillson House and the Connecticut Eastern Railroad Museum (set back from Bridge Street) will also feature exhibits and other activities.

The railroad museum will offer 1.5-mile train rides in an open car with benches. “The kids will love it,” Duval said.

The Victorian Teas are “real high teas,” using real china, silverware and linen napkins and tablecloths. Sandwiches, handmade scones, pastries and tea are served in one of the Victorian homes. The tea gatherings sell out quickly. “We tell people to reserve ahead of time, and they have to,” Duval said.

For information on where to buy tickets or to make advance reservations for tea on Saturday or Sunday, call (860) 428-7573.

To download a brochure detailing all the events and a map, visit the Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association Web site at http://www.victorianwillimantic.org/events/victorian-days-in-willimantic

Posted May 30, 2012 as edited by HTNP.com Editor Brenda Sullivan

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News. https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews and find us on Twitter at HTNP News (@HTNPNews )

Coventry Regional Farmers Market returns for 2012 season

May 31, 2012 Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

The Coventry Regional Farmers Market is enters its eighth season beginning Sunday, June 3, 2012. This photo is from the market's opening day in 2007, recently posted on the Coventry Regional Farmers Market Facebook page.

Hailed as the largest farmer’s market in the state, the award-winning Coventry Regional Farmers Market will kick off its eighth season on Sunday, June 3, 2012.

The market is held on the grounds of the Hale Homestead at 2299 South St., the former family home of the Revolutionary War hero, Nathan Hale.

Market vendors will sell their homemade goods and homegrown produce from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m on Sundays from June to October.

Market goers will also be able to see the new barn now under construction. The barn was won in a contest earlier this year.

Bridges to Healthy Cooking School, a registered 501c3 now oversees the market.

The market generates sales exceeding $350,000 every year and draws more than 75,000 visitors annually.

Market Executive Director Winter Caplanson said she thinks the market’s secret is its “sincerity.”

“We believe in creating this community of people, to understand what it means to eat well,” Caplanson said.

Caplanson said the market specializes in organic, heirloom, ethnic and gourmet varieties of fruits and vegetables, and offers grassfed beef, free-range eggs, milk, yogurt, smoked bacon, rustic breads, farmstead cheeses and flowers, among other items.

The market offers “great diversity,” she said.

Market officials are planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new barn on June 17, with Gov. Dannel P. Malloy in attendance.

The barn was won by the market in the “Yankee Post and Beam Great Barn Giveaway,” a national contest last summer in which the public voted on who should win the barn.

The 24-foot-by-36-foot post and beam barn was made possible by W.H. Silverstein Inc.

Caplanson said there have been some glitches with getting the structure finished.

Permits took longer than expected and, “We may lose some vending places,” she said. “We are currently in the process of figuring out how many spaces are being impacted and where else can those vendors be placed.”

The barn will be used to house demonstrations, classes, exhibits, live music and other events at the market. It will also be leased to other groups by the Town of Coventry on non-market days.

Earlier this year the town and fans of the market from the surrounding area were distressed to learn the market might lose its home at the Hale Homestead.

Market organizers, while trying to work out issues with Connecticut Landmarks, the agency that oversees the site and with the Town of Coventry concerning a site offered in town, also entertained invitations from other towns to give the market a new home.

Ultimately, Connecticut Landmarks and the market’s directors reached a 10- year agreement in which the Town of Coventry will act as the tenant and the farmers market will sublease.

Something new this year, thanks to newly passed legislation – Sunday alcohol sales will now take place at the market.

“We will be able to have a wine vendor (this season),” Caplanson said. She added that she’s been “holding onto one spot” at the market for that specific reason.

“We are planning on having one, but it may not (be ready) the first weekend. It’s something we’ve wanted for awhile,” she said.

Town Manager John Elsesser said the market “is a point of pride for the town… It sends a positive message about our community and who we are. We are glad it’s going to start another year here.”

The Coventry Regional Farmers Market also is a “dog friendly” market – visitors can bring their four-footed companions as long as they are on a leash and well-behaved.

To keep up-to-date on entertainment, demonstrations, vendors and special events at the market, visit http://www.coventryfarmersmarket.com or find it on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CoventryFarmersMarket

Editor’s note: You are encouraged to also bring necessary “equipment” for cleaning up after your dog, and to bring some fresh water for your dog, since both you and your dog will be walking in an open field.

Posted May 31, 2012 as edited and added to by HTNP.com Editor Brenda Sullivan

Enjoy Connecticut’s many beautiful state parks at a discount

May 27, 2012 Areawide, Arts & Entertainment No Comments

Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, CT offers views of Long Island Sound, nature trails, picnic tables, beautiful gardens and a tour of the historic mansion (for an additional fee).

The State offers a number of seasonal passes to Connecticut’s many and varied state parks for reasonable prices.

With the cost of gas up one day and down the next – usually up once the summer vacation season rolls around – a day at a state park can be an affordable day trip.

Some parks, such as Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, offer ocean views and many offer picnic and cookout sites.

Most have hiking trails that vary from relatively flat and easy, to steep and challenging, often leading to a summit with an inspiring view.

Some parks are great for bird-watching, and others allow fishing.

Some parks, such as Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, also offer tours of historic and unusual estates.

Before bringing your four-legged family member along, check that a particular park allows dogs. If it does, your dog must be on a leash and you should bring drinking water and the necessary equipment for cleaning up after your dog.

Here is some information about discounted passes.

Season passes

For the frequent park visitor, Connecticut offers a season pass (a windshield sticker) that allows unlimited vehicle access to any state park or recreation area that has a parking fee, for no extra charge.

Season passes are valid for one vehicle per pass (non-transferable to any other vehicle) for an entire calendar year.

Season passes are not valid for admission to Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Park Exhibit Centers or tours of Gillette Castle (but you can visit the grounds), camping or special events with charges; if an area is closed to the public for any reason; for commercial use or on a commercial vehicle; if not adhered to the windshield (motorcycle operators may handhold the pass) of a registered vehicle.

A separate Heritage Passport will allow for unlimited access to Dinosaur, Fort Trumbull and Gillette Castle State Parks until the end of the calendar year. The cost is $67 and is good for a family (2 adults and up to 4 children). You can buy your Heritage Passport at any one of the three parks.

A season pass for access to all other parks is $67 for Connecticut residents and $112 for Out-of State residents and can be paid for online at the DEEP Store (The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection) http://www.ctdeepstore.com, as well as by mail or in person.

By mail, send a check for the fee, plus $2.50 for shipping and handling, made out to Treasurer, State of Connecticut to: DEEP Store, 79 Elm St., Hartford, CT 06106-5127

Your pass will be sent via first class mail with delivery confirmation to the address provided in your request.

Free lifetime passes

Called the Charter Oak Pass, this one provides access to all Connecticut state parks and forests and is available free to Connecticut residents age 65 or older.

It is accepted at all day-use areas where a parking fee applies and allows free access for the entering vehicle and passengers. And the pass holder does not have to be the vehicle driver.

It also allows free admission for the Charter Oak pass holder when visiting Gillette Castle, Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Parks, or fishing at the Quinebaug Valley Hatchery. Accompanying visitors, however, will be required to pay the appropriate fee.

Please note that each pass is issued to a specific person and can only be used when presented by that individual. Also, they are not valid for camping or special events that have separate admission charges, and may not be used for commercial purposes.

For a list of offices where you can buy your Charter Oak Pass in person (please bring proof of age and Connecticut residency), click this link and scroll half-way down the page.

Another free, lifetime pass is available for disabled veterans.

The Disabled Veteran Pass provides access to Connecticut state parks and forests and is available free to Connecticut residents who have a service-connected disability.

It allows free access for the entering vehicle and all passengers. Again, the pass holder does not have to be the driver.

This pass is not valid for camping or special events that have separate admission charges and may not be used for commercial purposes.

However, this pass can be used for free admission to Gillette Castle, Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Parks, or fishing at the Quinebaug Valley Hatchery. Accompanying visitors will be required to pay the appropriate fee.

You will need to show (or mail a copy of) your current Connecticut drivers license or other legal proof of residency, as well as a copy of your VA card or VA Benefits Letter indicating a service-connected disability. Mail to: DEEP Disabled Veteran Pass, State Parks Division, 79 Elm St., Hartford, CT 06106-5127. Questions? Call 860-424-3200 state office hours.

Letterboxing

And did you know that many state forests are included in letterboxing activities? Letterboxing is something like a treasure hunt in which boxes containing a log book and rubber stamp are hidden in the parks. Maps are created and the boxes hidden by participants, and clues to finding the boxes are posted on the Web.

You can learn more about letterboxing in this area at this site http://letterboxing.org/faq/faq.html

And this link will take you to a map of Connecticut counties and links to the letterbox maps for those areas.

And here is a link to Connecticut state forests with letterboxing trails and their clues.

More info

For descriptions of the state parks and the facilities they offer, click on this link http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325086&depNav_GID=1650

For more information about passes, click on this link http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325090&depNav_GID=1650

Also note that from time-to-time, the governor has declared certain dates to be admission-free at state parks and forests. Watch for those announcements here.

Posted May 27, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News. https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews and find us on Twitter at HTNP News (@HTNPNews )

2012 Memorial Day ceremonies and parades in our area

May 27, 2012 Areawide, Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

Navy veterans and Pearl Harbor survivors John Busma, left, a machinist's mate 1st class aboard the repair ship USS Medusa (AR 1), and Richard Cramer, a signalman 1st class aboard USS Pennsylvania (BB 38) on Dec. 7, 1941, listen to the program during 5th annual Pearl Harbor Commemorative Celebration, Dec. 7, 2011 at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, Detachment Norco, home of Naval Surface Warfare Center, Corona Division. The theme of the event was Keeping Traditions Alive, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and 70 years of Navy presence in Riverside County, first as a naval hospital serving wounded from Pearl Harbor and currently as the Navy's independent assessment agent and one of its newest federal labs. (U.S. Navy photo by Greg Vojtko/Released)

Here are some of the 2012 Memorial Day activities slated for the HTNP.com readership area this weekend.

Sunday, May 27

SCOTLAND – The Memorial Day Parade kicks off at noon, and follows Route 97 from the town green to the Scotland Cemetery, where a ceremony will take place.

Monday, May 28

ASHFORD – The Memorial Day parade will begin at 11 a.m. at the firehouse on Route 89. Those marching in the parade are asked to meet at the fire station between 10 and 10:15 a.m. The parade will end at Pompey Hollow Park, where a service will be held.

COLUMBIA – Veterans will be honored during a Memorial Day ceremony at the town green, across from Columbia Town Hall on Route 66, beginning at 9 a.m.

During the ceremony, First Selectwoman Carmen Vance will make remarks and there will be a moment of silence for deceased veterans. Taps will be played and at the end of the ceremony, Vance will read a poem.

COVENTRY – The town’s Memorial Day parade starts at 10 a.m., beginning at the G.H. Robertson School on Cross Street, off of Route 31 (Main Street).

The parade will proceed to the Veteran’s Green for a brief service and then reform to continue down Lake Street to Main Street. The parade will end at Bradbury Lane.

HAMPTON – Memorial Day remembrances will take place throughout town. From 7 to 9 a.m., a Memorial Day breakfast will be served at the Hampton Congregational Church. At 9 a.m., the Memorial Day Parade starts at Route 97, from the Fletcher Memorial Library to the Hampton Community Center.

Hampton Town Hall will then host several Memorial Day remembrances and speeches starting at 10 a.m.

At noon, a ceremony for the Navy will take place at Little River on Hammond Hill Road.

And a chicken BBQ will be served at the Hampton Community Center from 11:20 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The day’s events include a 12:30 p.m. concert at the community center by the Juniper Hill Jumpers, a Dixieland jazz band.

HEBRON – The Memorial Day Parade kicks off at 10 a. m., follows Wall Street (Route 316) at RHAM High School. The parade will be followed by the dedication of a Civilian Aircraft Observation Post and World War II Memorial at the Hebron Town Office building. (See separate story in Hebron Today)

MANSFIELD (info added) – Memorial Day Parade starts at 9 a.m., from the intersection of Route 195 (Storrs Road) and Bassetts Bridge Road in Mansfield Center. Marchers will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Bassetts Bridge Road. The parade will progress north on Route 195 and down Cemetery Road to the new Mansfield Center cemetery.

All veterans and active duty personnel are invited to march at the head of the parade.

There will be a memorial ceremony at the cemetery. Councilor Christopher Paulhus will welcome all, Town Manager Matthew Hart will give the address, and Pastor Joe Nollet will represent the Hope Lutheran Church and give the invocation and benediction. Music will be provided by the Mansfield Middle School Band and the E.O. Smith Regional High School Band. Three volleys will be fired and taps sounded in honors for the fallen. The units will then return to Bassetts Bridge Road.

In the event of heavy rain, the ceremony will be held in the Mansfield Middle School gymnasium, the school is located at 205 Spring Hill Road, off of Route 195. Listen for the announcement at 7:30 a.m. on WILI of the ceremony moves indoors.

In the event of heavy rain, the ceremony will be held in the Mansfield Middle School gymnasium, the school is located at 205 Spring Hill Road, off of Route 195.

WINDHAM/ WILLIMANTIC – The Windham/Willimantic Memorial Day pilgrimage begins at 7 a.m. at the VFW on 1415 Main St. to begin a visit to each of the town’s cemeteries and memorials.

These include: New Willimantic Cemetery, Old Willimantic Cemetery, South Windham Memorial, Windham Center Cemetery, Windham Center Memorials, North Windham Cemetery, St. Joseph Cemetery, Russian Orthodox Cemetery and Windham Veteran’s Greenway.

At 9 a.m. coffee and doughnuts will be served at the VFW. And at 11 a.m., an observance will take place at Memorial Park on Main Street.

Following, the Memorial Day parade will form and march to the American Legion Hall on Brick Top Road.

Posted May 27, 2012

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Fiber arts, tea party among local Sunday events

May 20, 2012 Areawide, Arts & Entertainment, Local News No Comments

The Friends of the Prudence Crandall Museum Inc., will present the annual Spring Tea Luncheon from 1 to 3 p.m. at Carter House, next to the Prudence Crandall Museum in Canterbury.

Here are just a few of the fun and interesting events, many of them free, happening in our area today, Sunday, May 20.

FIBER ARTS FESTIVAL — COVENTRY

A Stitch in Time Fiber Arts Festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Expected are spinners, knitters, weavers, quilters and other artists at the Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry. Donations accepted. Free tour of the homestead for CT Landmarks members. Members-to-be can take a guided tour for just $5. Info: (860) 742-6917.

THIRD ANNUAL CRUISE DAY

The Ashford Senior Center presents the third annual Cruise Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 25 Tremko Lane, Ashford. Info: (860) 487-5122.

EXHIBIT OPENING — CRANDALL MUSEUM

The Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host an exhibit opening of “Friends and Neighbors: Canterbury’s 18th and 19th Century African- American Residents” beginning at 11 a.m.

RABIES VACCINATIONS — SCOTLAND

The Town of Scotland will host its annual rabies vaccination clinic next month. The clinic will be held at the Scotland Fire Safety Complex, 47 Brook Road, from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $12 per vaccination and only cash will be accepted.

POETRY READING — CRANDALL MUSEUM

Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host a poetry reading from 1 to 3 p.m. Poets Marilyn Nelson (Connecticut Poet Laureate 2001-2006) Bessy Reyna and Kate Rushin will read from the book “Miss Crandall’s School for Young Ladies and Little Misses of Color.” Program includes dance performance by Deborah Goffee, artistic director and founder of Scapegoat Garden dance theater in Hartford. Admission: $6 adults/$4 senior citizens (60 and over) and youth (6-17), ages 5 and under free. Info: (860) 546-7800.

SPRING TEA LUNCHEON — CRANDALL MUSEUM

The Friends of the Prudence Crandall Museum Inc., will present the annual Spring Tea Luncheon from 1 to 3 p.m. at Carter House, next to the Prudence Crandall Museum in Canterbury at the intersection of routes 14 and 169. Cost is $17 per person and reservations must be made due to limited seating. In addition, the fee includes entrance to the Crandall Museum. Call (860) 546-9266 now to reserve your place.

CHICKEN BARBECUE — WILLIMANTIC

The Willimantic VFW Post 1724 Ladies Auxiliary, will host a chicken barbecue from 3 to 6 p.m. at the VFW home, Main Street, Willimantic. Cost is $7/person.

WVNA MONTHLY MEETING

The Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association will conduct its monthly meeting at 3:30 p.m. at its meeting house at 869 Main St., Willimantic. Potluck dinner to follow at 201 Lewiston Ave., Willimantic.

WINE AND BEER FESTIVAL IN HAMPTON

Joshua’s Tract Conservation and Historic Trust will host a wine and beer festival at the Hampton Community Center, 178 Main St., Hampton, to raise funds for its land conservation activities from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Co-sponsored with Bombadil’s Spirit Shop, Mansfield. Cost is $35 per person for members, $40 for non-members. Advance reservations are recommended. A reservation form with online payment is available at www.joshuaslandtrust.org. Tickets will be available at the door until the event is sold out.