CT State Historian, musician presents early American folk music

Walter Woodward, named Connecticut State Historian in 2004, outside the Old State House in Hartford, CT. Photo source: UConn Advance

On Friday, Nov. 18, at 7:30 p.m., the Mansfield Historical Society presents a program by Connecticut State Historian Walter Woodward celebrating early American folk music.

As both an historian and a musician, Woodward brings a fresh perspective on the history of New England folk music.

Woodward will discuss the work of Helen Hartness Flanders, daughter of a former governor of Vermont and a trained musician. In 1930, she was appointed by the Vermont Commission on Country Life to spearhead a project to document traditional music.

Over the next 30 years, she documented more than 4,800 folk songs and ballads sung by native New Englanders.

Today, the Helen Hartness Flanders Ballad Collection at Middlebury College is recognized as one of the nation’s great archival collections of New England folk songs, folklore and ballads.

Using materials from this collection, Woodward will combine his abilities as a historian with his musical talents as a former hit country music songwriter and performer to bring to life tales from New England’s history in story and in song.

“Marty Gray,” written by Walter Woodward, was a 60s hit for Billie Jo Spears

Woodward is an associate professor of early American history, now teaching at the Storrs campus of the University of Connecticut, where he received his PhD in 2001.

He teaches American environmental history, public history and an honors American studies course focused on the Connecticut River, as well as courses in Connecticut history.

He also is the author of “Prospero’s America: John Winthrop, Jr., Alchemy and the Creation of New England Culture,” as well as numerous writings on New England history and is a regular columnist for Connecticut Explored magazine.

And he is now writing a book on early American folk music.
Meet Woodward at the Buchanan Auditorium at the Mansfield Public Library (off Route 195 on Route 89/54 Warrenville Road in Mansfield Center).

Admission is free to Mansfield Historical Society members and children under 16; there is $3 fee for non-members.

An example of early American folk music

Posted Nov. 18, 2011

Related Link: “Early American History Scholar Named As New State Historian” http://advance.uconn.edu/2004/040913/04091305.htm

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Michael Moore at Jorgensen Nov 18 to benefit Mark Twain House

Documentary filmmaker Michael Moore will speak at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing arts on the Storrs UConn campus on Nov. 18, 2011. Photo source: Jorgensen

Tickets are on sale – and likely to go quickly – for documentary filmmaker Michael Moore’s Friday, Nov. 18 appearance at the Jorgensen Center for Performing Arts on the University of Connecticut’s Storrs campus.

Moore’s appearance is a benefit for The Mark Twain House & Museum.

He is scheduled to speak at 7:30 p.m.

Moore is known for his social commentaries including “Roger and Me” about the auto industry and the Oscar-winning “Bowling for Columbine” about the high-school student killings that took place there.

His latest book, “Here Comes Trouble,” is a memoir filled with his trademark humor and provocative politics.

He is currently a vocal supporter of the Occupy Wall Street movement.

Tickets are $25, $35, $45, and $85  for premium Orchestra seating and a private reception at 5:30  p.m. with Michael Moore in the Jorgensen Gallery.

Posted Nov. 14, 2011

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Check out the new and the leading edge at the Connecticut International Auto Show this weekend

A Toyota FJ Cruiser was among the impressive variety of vehicles on display at the 2010 Connecticut International Auto Show. Photo copyright 2010 by Brenda Sullivan

State automotive leaders are celebrating a re-energized industry this weekend at the Connecticut International Auto Show, set for Friday, Nov. 11 through Sunday, Nov. 13, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

The show features some of the newest models of hybrid, luxury, family and specialty vehicles.

While cars are not for sale at the show, one of the benefits of attending is that consumers can view and compare different brands of cars in one place.

New car sales in the state are revving up again, with figures inching toward pre-recession levels.

Prior to the 2008 economic crash, Connecticut’s annual automobile sales averaged $9 billion a year, but that figure plummeted to $6.3 billion in 2008. Total sales now are back up to $8 billion and climbing.

New dealerships also have opened to replace the ones forced to close during the height of the recession.

One of the educational displays at the 2010 Connecticut International Car Show. Photo copyright 2010 by Brenda Sullivan

Between 2008 and 2009, 30 percent of the state’s new car dealers went out of business.

The newest dealers are helping fuel the economy with jobs and money; revenue from automobile sales accounts for 14 percent of sales tax collected annually in Connecticut, on top of the payroll and property taxes paid by the state’s car dealers. according to Jim Fleming, president of the Connecticut Automotive Retailers Association.

The association represents more than 250 new car dealerships in the state that employ more than 12,000 people.

Fleming also noted that dealer interest in this weekend’s show was so high that floor space sold out for the first time in three years.

Consumer confidence has rebounded since the depths of the recession, noted Barbara Putney, vice president of the Paragon Group, the show’s producer. “People no longer are feeling like if they buy a GM car, they might go out of business,” she said.

The shortage of newer used cars on the market also is prompting many people to consider buying new, she added.

The return of credit also is boosting sales, according to Fleming.

Two or three years ago, dealers were unable to get credit to finance their inventory and consumers struggled to get loans.

While Connecticut consumers are particularly environmentally-conscious and many are drawn to hybrids, large cars such as sport utility vehicles (SUVS) remain popular, Fleming said.

Overall, consumers are showing particular interest in hybrid cars and those that boast high gas mileage, Putney said.

One of the hybrid vehicles at the 2010 Connecticut International Auto Show. Photo copyright 2010 by Brenda Sullivan

“Virtually every brand has a hybrid car in its line. People want to know how the car lines are making engines perform better so they use less fuel. It has to do with the cost of gas, the idea of helping the environment and getting away from the dependence on foreign oil. For nearly 100 years, the car technology barely changed. Now there are different ways of looking at things,” Putney said.

Other attractions at this year’s Connecticut International Auto Show include an appearance by Sean Casey and the Tornado Intercept Vehicle from the Discovery Channel’s “Storm Chasers” program, from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Comic Bot, the eight-foot-tall robot from “America’s Got Talent” is scheduled to perform Saturday at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday at 1 p.m.

Some vintage cars from the 1900s, 1920s and 1930s also will be on display, courtesy of the Klingberg Foundation.

Car show hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6 to 12. Children under age 6 are free.

This story brought to you by the Independent Media Network, http://imnct.com

Posted Nov. 12, 2011, as edited by HTNP.com Editor Brenda Sullivan

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UConn set to host children's book fair this weekend

Two dozen authors and illustrators of books for young readers, middle readers, young adults and teens will give presentations and autograph copies of their books at the 20th annual Connecticut Children’s Book Fair this weekend.

The event is Saturday, Nov. 12, and Sunday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the UConn Storrs campus.

Participants include Tomie dePaola, Jack D. Ferraiolo , Alan Katz, Jeff Hirsch, Gordon Korman, Ted and Betsy Lewin, Grace Lin, David Macaulay, Salley Mavor, Wendell Minor, Michael Northrop, Caragh O’Brien, Heidi Stemple, Robert Sabuda, Stephen Savage, Matt Tavares, Colleen AF Venable, Sarah Weeks, Suzanne Weyn, Walter Wick, Mo Willems, Jane Yolen and Stephanie Yue.

In addition, storybook characters such as Clifford the Big Red Dog, Tomie dePaola’s Strega Nona and Mo Willems’ Piggie and Elephant will pose for photos and interact with children.

Other highlights include crafts, stories, music by the Treblemakers Children’s Choir and the Suzuki Music Group, plus visits from Tails of Joy and 4 Paws for Books.

The Connecticut Children’s Book Fair, held in the Rome Ballroom, is a project of the Thomas J. Dodd Research Center and the UConn Co-op. The Fair is free and the public is welcome. Proceeds benefit the Northeast Children’s Literature Collection.

For more information, go to http://bookfair.uconn.edu or call (860) 486-5027.

Posted 11-11-2011

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UConn students to help renovate Museum of Connecticut Glass in Coventry

University of Connecticut senior mechanical engineering students have begun a year-long project to determine the economic feasibility of developing a green-power source system to supply the Coventry-based Museum of Connecticut Glass.

Three University of Connecticut senior mechanical engineering students have begun a year-long project to determine the economic feasibility of developing a green-power source system to supply the Coventry-based Museum of Connecticut Glass with enough sustainable green-power to supply its buildings and a glass-­producing furnace operation.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering student team selected the museum challenge project out of many proposals submitted mostly by private companies and manufacturers.

The project also will require renovating the museum’s almost 200-year-old house and a former UConn barn where the glass-production furnace would be housed in a to-be-built adjoining structure, so all structures can be connected to the green-power system the students recommend.

The museum also has been doing interior painting and minor restoration projects under a $2,000 grant received from the SBM Foundation.

The work will prepare some rooms on the lower floor of the historic house for visitors during Coventry’s 300th anniversary next year.

The UConn team includes Brittany Grenus, William Carnright and James Ricciardi. The team’s faculty advisor is Professor Yen Lin Han and its sponsor advisor is Noel Tomas, museum president.

Posted Nov. 10, 2011

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This weekend – breakfasts, dinners, sales, more

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5

CAN AND BOTTLE DRIVE – STORRS
E.O. Smith High School, 1235 Storrs Road, Storrs, will host its Safe Grad Can and Bottle Drive from 9 a.m. to noon.

TAG AND COOKIE SALE – COVENTRY
Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road, Coventry, will host a tag and cookie sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Benefit FCCLA Community Service Projects. Info: (860) 742-7346, ext. 136.

HOLIDAY FAIR – COVENTRY
St. Mary Church, Route 31, Coventry, will host a holiday fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: (860) 742-0681.

VENDOR/CRAFTER SHOWCASE – WHS
WHS Project Graduation is sponsoring a vendor/crafter showcase in the Windham High School cafeteria, 355 High St., Willimantic from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission: $1 donation to WHS Project Graduation.

HOLIDAY FAIR AND CRAFT SHOW
Columbia Congregational Church, 325 Route 87, Columbia, will host a holiday fair and craft show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: (860) 228-9306 or ccchurch@snet.net.

UCONN BEEF SALE
The University of Connecticut will host a beef sale from 10 a.m. to noon, Livestock Unit, Horsebarn Hill Road, UConn, Storrs Campus. Info: Mary.Cole@uconn.edu or (860) 486-2035. The beef calf election presentation and the judging contest will be postponed until next year.

LETTERBOXING WORKSHOP – LEBANON
The Lebanon Historical Society Museum, 856 Trumbull Highway, will host a letterboxing workshop from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Open to adults and supervised children. $1 suggested donation to cover cost of materi­als. Info: (860) 642-6579.

FLEA MARKET – WILLIMANTIC
The Hub of Salvation Flea Market, 120 Union St., Willimantic, will be open from noon to 4 p.m. A 10-foot by 10-foot space is available for a $25 donation. Info: Melanie Rivera and Angel Jusino at (860) 617-6706.

HAM AND BEAN DINNER – LEBANON
Lebanon Fire Safety Complex, Goshen Hill Road, Lebanon, will host a ham and bean dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is $8 adults, $5, 10 and under. Proceeds to benefit Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Lebanon’s food cupboard.

LASAGNA DINNER – HAMPTON
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 40 Cedar Swamp Road, Hampton, will host a fundraiser lasagna dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. $8 adults, $6 children 4-10 years old, $25 family of four or more. .

UCONN VOICES OF FREEDOM
The University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts, 875 Coventry Road, Storrs, will host the Voices of Freedom at 6 p.m. General admis­sion $7, Students with ID and children are free. Gospel choir will per­form with the Rev. Lisa Clayton its director. Contact: (860) 486.2969 or sfa.uconn.edu.

WINE TASTING FUNDRAISER – COVENTRY
Opportunity Works Connecticut Inc., of Willington is having a wine tasting fundraiser from 6 to 9 p.m. at Cassidy Hill Vineyard, Coventry. Cost is $25 advanced/$30 at the door for tasting and logo glass and $40 advanced/$45 at the door for tasting, glass and bottle of wine. All pro­ceeds will benefit organization programs. Info: www.owct.org or call (860) 477-0900.

WINE TASTING FUNDRAISER – WILLIMANTIC
A wine tasting fundraiser is slated at the Willimantic Elks Lodge upstairs hall, Pleasant Street, Willimantic, from 7 to 10 p.m. Benefits St. Mary-St Joseph School athletic program. Cost is $20 at door or school office. Not handicap accessible. Info: (860) 423-8479.

QUIET CORNER CONTRA DANCE
The next Quiet Corner Contra Dance will be held at the Storrs Congregational Church, 2 North Eagleville Road, Storrs. Free lessons at 7:30 p.m., with dance beginning at 8 p.m. (all dances are taught). Bring soft-soled shoes and water to drink.

LITTLE RIVER MUSIC SERIES, HAMPTON
The Gnomes, will be performing at the Hampton Community Center, Main Street, Hampton, at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. $10. Info: (860) 455-2056.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6

PANCAKE BREAKFAST
The Willimantic Lions Club is hosting its fall breakfast from 7:30 to 11 a.m. at the Elks Club, Pleasant Street, Willimantic. Adults $6, seniors $5, kids under 12, $4. There will be vision screenings available. Patrons are reminded to bring used eyeglasses for worldwide re-use.

VFW SUNDAY BREAKFAST – WILLIMANTIC
VFW Post 1724, Main Street, Willimantic, will hold its Sunday breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Proceeds to benefit homeless veterans.

VFW SUNDAY BREAKFAST – CANTERBURY
The Canterbury VFW, Route 169 ( North Canterbury Road), Canterbury, is hosting its Sunday breakfast from 8 to 11 a. m.

HIBERNATION FESTIVAL – OAK GROVE
Oak Grove Montessori School will host its annual Hibernation Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 132 Pleasant Valley Road, Mansfield Center. Info: (860) 456-1031.

EASTERN’S CLASSIC BRASS
Eastern Connecticut State University’s Performing Arts Department will present a Classic Brass concert with Oystein Baadsvik, internation­al tuba virtuoso, at 2 p.m. in Shafer Auditorium, located on the corner of Windham and Valley streets. The public is invited. Free admission. Info. Lana Raymond (860) 465-5325 or raymondla@easternct.edu.

APOLLO’S FIRE JAROUSSKY TO LIGHT UP JORGENSEN
Apollo’s Fire and Jaroussky will light up Jorgensen’s stage with Handel and Vivaldi Fireworks, a program of arias and concertos, at 2 p.m. Eric Rice, a specialist in music composed before 1750 and associ­ate professor of music history at the University of Connecticut, will give the Concert Talk at 1:15 p.m. Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts is located at 2132 Hillside Road on the UConn campus in Storrs. $40, $37 and $33, with some discounts. Tickets/info. (860) 486-4226, or order online at: jorgensen.uconn.edu.

UCONN CHORAL CONCERT
University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts, 875 Coventry Road, Storrs, will host a choral concert at 3 p.m. General admission $7, stu­dents with ID and children are free. Featuring concert choir and the newly formed Chamber Singers, a select, mixed choral chamber ensem­ble. Choirs will perform works by Mendelssohn, Bach, Herzogenberg and Lauridsen Michele Holt, director. Contact: (860) 486-2969 or sfa.uconn.edu.

CHILDREN OF THE CIVIL WAR
The Windham Textile and History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, will host a program by local historian Meg Gallente-DeAngelis entitled, “Children of the Civil War” at 4 p.m. Cost is $10/ person. Info: (860) 456-2178 or www.millmuseum.org.

OPEN AUDITIONS – ‘THE BOYS NEXT DOOR’

Windham Theatre Guild will host open auditions for ‘The Boys Next Door’ at the Burton Leavitt Theatre, 779 Main St., Willimantic, at 7:30 p.m. Needed are six to seven men, age 20s to 50s; two women age 30s to 40s. Info: Barry at Barry.schreier@uconn.edu.

UCONN SAXOPHONE QUARTET
University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts, 875 Coventry Road, Storrs, will host a saxophone quartet at 7:30 p.m. Free event. Greg Case, director. Contact: Call (860) 486-2969 or sfa.uconn.edu.

VENDORS WANTED – CHURCH FAIR
The First Congregational Church of Coventry, 1171 Main St., Coventry, is looking for crafters for their church fair, which will be held Nov. 18-19. Info: (860) 742-5689 or First.congregatnl@snet.net.

Posted 11-5-2011

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Coventry Energy Fair includes tour of new Public Works garage

The Coventry Energy Fair was originally to be held in the spring, but was postponed so it could be held in the new public works facility, which has numerous energy-efficiency features.

The highlight of Coventry’s energy fair today (Saturday, Nov. 5) will be a tour of the town’s new Public Works garage.

The fair was organized by the Coventry Energy Conservation-Alternative Energy Advisory Committee and, weather permitting, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the new facility on 100 Olsen Farm Road.

During the tour, visitors can participate in workshops on various energy-related topics.

The fair was originally to be held in the spring, but was postponed so it could be held in the public works facility, which has numerous energy-efficiency features.

The 22,000 square- foot building will be heated by waste oil as well as heating oil and it has programmable thermostats.

Coventry Town Manager John Elsesser said the building will be completed by the end of this month. Some work, such as mechanical adjustments, still needs to be done, he said. And public works equipment still needs to be moved in.

Fuss & O’Neill Design Build Services, a firm in Manchester, oversaw the project.

The town decided to build a new public works facility because the old building was aging and falling apart.

Voters rejected funding for the project in February 2010, but later approved $3.35 million in September 2010. The town broke ground for the project in October 2010.

Activities and info at the Energy Fair will include:

10 a.m. Opening remarks.

10:15 a.m. Residential efficiency programs available from Connecticut Light & Power.

10:45 a.m. How to weatherize your home.

11: 15 a. m. Retrofitting your home for energy efficiency.

11:45 a.m. Wood gasification boilers.

12:15 p.m. Thermal solar systems and applications.

12: 45 p. m. Geothermal heat pumps to heat and cool your home.

1:15 p.m. LED and CFL Lighting.

In a press release, Coventry Energy Conservation/ Alternative Energy Committee Chair Wayne Vaillaincourt expressed the group’s excitement about the energy fair. “The 2011 Coventry Energy Fair will be a great benefit for Coventry citizens to become familiar with the benefits, potentials and uses of renewable energy and energy-efficiency for our homes,” he said.

“Our committee is pleased to be able to offer this event in our continued efforts to support sustainable energy development for the town of Coventry now and in the foreseeable future,” Vaillaincourt said.

Posted Nov. 5, 2011 as edited by HTNP.com Editor Brenda Sullivan

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A reminder…

Letters to the Editor concerning candidates for the November 2011 elections can be sent to editor@HTNP.com. Candidates writing on their own behalf are asked to include a JPEG headshot that is at least 500 pixels wide and a resolution of at least 180. The last date to post campaign letters will be today,  Saturday, Nov. 5. Please include Coventry Today in the subject line, and provide a phone number where you can be reached by the editor.

Coventry High School Band will attempt to break Guinness World Record

On Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 29-30, Coventry High School Band members will try to play the longest continuous group drum roll.

Coventry High School band members will take a break from their studies this weekend and attempt to set a Guinness World Record.

On Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 29-30, participants will try to play the longest continuous group drum roll.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. in the high school Veterans Auditorium and is open to the public.

Rock Hill High School in Rock Hill, S.C., holds the current record at 27 hours and 23 seconds. Coventry will attempt to play for 30 straight hours.

The attempt will be facilitated by a group of 15 to 20 members, including percussionists from the concert band as well as alumni and some non-drummers.

One person will play at a time, with back­up drummers taking over when the individual becomes fatigued.

Coventry High School Band Director Ned Smith said the kids, staff and music boosters are “gearing up” for the event. “The kids are excited,” he said.

The high school band room will be available for students to relax while other rooms will be available for students who want to catch some sleep.

Sleep deprivation is not expected to be much of a problem. Coventry High School Music Boosters Pres­ident Kiev Federowicz said if each kid played for 10 to 15 minutes, they would have two or three hours to rest before their next turn.

There is not, however, a set goal as far as how much time each person should spend during his or her turn.

Also, the students were told to get a good night’s sleep on Friday, prior to the event.

“They (the percussionists) have done a lot of talking and practicing over the past couple months to see how this will go,” Federowicz said.

In order to be eligible to attempt to break the world record, the band had to submit documentation showing this was an existing record, and not a new one. Guinness also required the band to make the event open to the public, as well as record the attempt.

There will be different levels of observation for the event.

Students will be logging the drum roll using pencil and paper.

State Rep. Tim Ackert, R-Coventry, and Coventry Town Manager John Elsesser will oversee the attempt to ensure it is being documented properly.

Members of the public will act as “witnesses” and will be asked to sign a sheet showing they witnessed the attempt. These individuals cannot have an affiliation with the band.

“It should be quite a unique event,” Smith said.

The booster club is hoping the record attempt boost donations for equipment and a trip the band will take to Cleveland.

Donations can be given prior to, during or after the event. “We’re trying to drum up some funds for the event,” Smith said.

Checks can be made to: CHS Band and mailed c/o Ned F. Smith, Music Director-Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road, Coventry, CT 06238. Please note in the check’s memo line “Guinness Record Attempt 2011.”

Donations can also be sent by clicking on the donation link on the group’s web site at www.chsmusicboosters.org

For more information, contact Smith at (860) 742-7346, ext. 218, or at nsmith@coventryct.org.

Questions? Contact CHS Music Boosters President Kiev Federowicz at kjmusicboost@gmail.com

Posted Oct. 28, 2011

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A reminder…

Letters to the Editor concerning candidates for the November 2011 elections can be sent to editor@HTNP.com. Candidates writing on their own behalf are asked to include a JPEG headshot that is at least 500 pixels wide and a resolution of at least 180. The last date to post campaign letters will be Saturday, Nov. 6. Please include Coventry Today in the subject line, and provide a phone number where you can be reached by the editor.

Looking for something to do this weekend? Look right here

Saturday, Oct. 22

WILLIMANTIC FARMERS MARKET
The Willimantic Farmers Market, located under the pavilion at the corner of Jackson and Main streets, is held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon through October.

LARGE FAMILY TAG SALE
A benefit family tag sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Columba Church, Route 66 and Route 87, Columbia. All proceeds to benefit the Columbia Cooperative Nursery School. Rain or shine.

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE – LEBANON
Goshen Congregational Church, 157 Church Road, Lebanon, will hold a rummage sale from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Table space is available and vendors are welcome. Indoors: $20, outdoors: $10. For details call (860) 642-4336.

ZUMBA FITNESS – WINDHAM CENTER
Zumba Fitness will be held at the Windham Center Firehouse, Route 203, Windham Center, from 9 to 10 a.m. Participants asked to wear sneakers, brings lots of water, a towel and a mat for stretching. Info: Patty at (860) 617-8897.

GREAT PUMPKIN SALE – WILLIMANTIC
The Covenant Soup Kitchen will have its Great Pumpkin Sale in front of The Willimantic Co-op, Valley Street, Willimantic, through Sunday. Proceeds benefit the Covenant Soup Kitchen. The hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

OUTDOOR WILDLIFE PROGRAM
Children have an opportunity to learn how wildlife cope with colder weather. “How Animals Survive the Winter” is part of the Children’s Discovery Series sponsored by the James Goodwin State Forest Conservation and Education Center. The program will be held outdoors from 10 a.m. to noon at the forest entrance located at 23 Potter Road, Hampton. Info./register a child for the program, call (860) 455-9534.

QUIET CORNER CAMERA CLUB
Quiet Corner Camera Club will host a reception at ArtSpace, 480 Main St., Willimantic, from 1 to 6 p.m. Info: (860) 456-4906.

HISTORIC SCHOOLHOUSE OPEN HOUSE – MANSFIELD
There will be an open house at the historic Eagleville Schoolhouse from 1 to 3 p.m. Schoolhouse is located at the intersection of South Eagleville Road and Route 32 in Mansfield. Light refreshments. Info: www.joshuaslandtrust.org.

LORI FISHER WELLNESS FAIR & FALL FESTIVAL
The Lori Fisher Wellness Fair & Fall Festival will be held at Scotland School, 68 Brook Road, Scotland, from 1 to 6 p.m. Free admission. Bring a decorated pumpkin to enter in contest. Entries must be in by 2 p.m. Info: Scotlandschool.org, click on “Dates to Remember.”

TEA & SCONES – TEXTILE MUSEUM
Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, will hold a Tea & Scones fundraiser from 3 to 5 p.m., at the museum. There will be a presentation on “The Art of Making Scones.” Admission $15 or $10 for museum members. Reservations are required. For reser­vations, call (860) 456-2178 and leave a message.

PASTA SUPPER AND SILENT AUCTION
The Storrs Congregational Church, 2 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, will host a pasta supper and silent auction from 5 to 7 p.m. Dinner freewill donations and silent auction proceeds support church programs in the local community. For to-go orders, contact the church office at (860) 429-9382.

FALL CHICKEN BARBECUE – FRANKLIN
The Franklin Congregational Church, 31 Meetinghouse Hill Road, Franklin, will host a fall chicken barbecue with sittings at 5 and 6:30 p.m. Tickets at the door. Adults $10, seniors $9, children 12 and under $5 and preschool free.

HARVEST SUPPER – HAMPTON
The Hampton Congregational Church, 263 Main St., Hampton, will host a harvest supper from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is $9 adults, $5 children and those under 5 free. Info: (860) 455-9677 for tickets or at the door.

YOUTH EXPLOSION/GLOBETROTTER – WILLIMANTIC
The Council for Christian Arts annual Youth Explosion is will be held at the Christian Life Assembly Church, 143 Windham Road, Willimantic, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Featuring former Harlem Globetrotter Seth Franco. Free admission. Info: www.ccawindhamcounty.org.

COVENTRY HISTORICAL SOCIETY HALLOWEEN EVENT
Join the Coventry Historical Society for “A Hauntingly Enchanted Evening” lantern tour and haunted woods visit at the historic Strong-Porter House Museum, 2382 South St., Coventry. Tours can be sched­uled from 6 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. on all nights by reservation only. Admission: $20. Reservations and detailed, updated information is available by calling (860) 742-5234 or visiting www.darkwalk.net.

‘MOONLIGHT MADNESS, A HALLOWEEN HAPPENING’
The American Legion, 339 Bricktop Road, Windham, will host “Moonlight Madness, A Halloween Happening” from 6 p.m. to midnight. $10. Costume contest with the theme of the Wizard of Oz. Benefits the Covenant Soup Kitchen in Willimantic. Info: (860) 423-1643.

WILD BILL FURY PROJECT PERFORMS
Wild Bill Fury Project will be performing at 6 p.m. at Fred’s Brick House Café, 1681 W. Main St., Willimantic. Info: (860) 423-2615 or www.fredsbrickhouse.com.

THIRD ANNUAL HARVEST MOON DINNER/DANCE
The third annual Harvest Moon Dinner/Dance will be sponsored by St. Francis of Assisi Ladies Guild and held at the Lebanon Fire Safety Complex, Goshen Hill Road, from 6 to 11 p.m. $20 donation per person. Tickets are available by calling (860) 642-7049 or (860) 423-8040.

WINE TASTING TO BENEFIT HAITIAN CHILDREN
St. Thomas Aquinas Parish Center, 46 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, will host a wine tasting to benefit Haitian children from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Cost is $25/person. Must be over 21.

ENVIRONMENTAL RECEPTION – WILLIMANTIC
“Children and Animals: A Collective Display of Exhibitionism” will take place at 745 Main St., Willimantic. Event to feature outside and fine art works, music, performance art and happenings. Free. Info: www.boudoumboudoumenvironment.weebly.com.

STEAK DINNER – EASTFORD
The Eastford Independent Fire Co. will host a steak dinner at 6:30 p.m. at the firehouse, 6 Westford Road, Eastford. Cost is $15/person. Tickets available by calling (860) 974-0256 or (860) 974-1678.

Sunday, October 23

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park off Route 44 across from Ashford Town Hall. The market will run every Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October. Info: Loretta at birdeye123@earthlink.net.

MESSAGES FROM MEDIUMS
First Spiritualist Church of Willimantic, 268 High St., will host a fundraising event from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Readings provided by certified spiritualist mediums. Cost is $25 per 20-minute reading. Info: (860) 423-5774.

TURKEY DINNER WITH ALL THE FIXINGS
Moriah Lodge # 15, 220 Providence Road, Brooklyn, will host an early turkey dinner from noon to 2 p.m. Dine in or take out. Cost is $10/person. Proceeds ben­efit local charitable efforts.

QUIET CORNER CAMERA CLUB
Quiet Corner Camera Club will host a reception at ArtSpace, 480 Main St., Willimantic, from 1 to 6 p.m. Info: (860) 456-4906.

COUNTRY LINE DANCING
Lebanon Senior Center, 37R Town St., Lebanon, will host country line dancing with Jack McLaughlin and Camille Lord from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $6/person. All levels welcome. Info: (860) 822-8147.

UCONN SONGFEST
The University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts, 875 Coventry Road, Storrs will host UConn Songfest at 3 p.m. No charge for this event. Event to be a celebra­tion of Spanish song. Contact: (860) 486-2969 or sfa.uconn.edu.

12TH ANNUAL TRACKER CONCERT
Michael Hey, a rising star in the pipe organ performance world, will play at the 12th Annual Tracker Concert at the Hampton Congregational Church at 4 p.m. The church is located at 263 Main St. (Route 97), Hampton. A free­will offering will be taken.

BLUES GRASS PERFORMS
Blues Grass will perform at 6 p.m. at Fred’s Brick House Café, 1681 W. Main St., Willimantic. Info: (860) 423-2615 or www.fredsbrick­house.com.

Posted 10-21-2011

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Dedication ceremony at Royal Knowlton Preserve, Renaissance Faire continues, CROP walk and more this weekend

Saturday,  Oct. 15

WILLIMANTIC FARMERS MARKET
The Willimantic Farmers Market, located under the pavilion at the corner of Jackson and Main streets, is held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon through October.

BOOK SALE – SCOTLAND
The Scotland Public Library, 21 Brook Road, Scotland, will host a book sale from 9 a. m. to 1 p. m. All items reasonably priced and proceeds benefit the Scotland Public Library. Info: (860) 423-1492.

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR – COVENTRY
The Coventry Republican Town Committee will be sponsoring a Senior Health Fair, with the support of Coventry Walgreens and Pro-Eye. The fair will be held at Patriots Park Community Center, 120 Lake St., Coventry, from 9 a.m. to noon. The fair is free and open to all. Flu shots will be available. Bring health insurance card. For questions, con­tact Jeff Shorts at (860) 465- 7770.

LEBANON FARMERS MARKET
The Lebanon Farmers Market on the town green, 579 Exeter Road, Lebanon, is held every Saturday through Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to noon.

ZUMBA FITNESS
Zumba Fitness will be held at the Windham Center Firehouse, Route 203, Windham Center, from 9 to 10 a.m. Wear sneakers, brings lots of water, a towel and a mat for stretching. Info: Patty at (860) 617- 8897.

ANNUAL HARVEST FEST – PARISH HILL
Sponsored by the Associated Student Government, the festival will be held at Parish Hill High School, Parish Hill Road, Chaplin, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Decorate pumpkins, face painting, scavenger hunt, fortunes told. The event is open to all residents of Parish Hill’s sending towns: Chaplin, Hampton and Scotland.

FREE ITEMS FOR THE COMMUNITY – COLUMBIA
Baptist Fellowship Church, 195 Route 6, Columbia, will be offering free clothes, books, toys and kitchen items to any and all from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: (860) 228-0102.

13TH ANNUAL CT RENAISSANCE FAIRE
The Connecticut Renaissance Faire will be held at the Hebron Lions Fairgrounds, 347 Gilead St., Hebron, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Rain or shine. The faire runs weekends through Oct. 16. General admission $16, $10 for youth (5-12) and under 5 are free. Parking $3. Info: visit www.ctfaire.com or call (860) 478-5954.

DEDICATION CEREMONY
The Willington Conservation Commission will host a dedication ceremony and hike on the Royal Knowlton Preserve at 11 a.m. Rain date Oct. 16. The ceremony and hike will start on Mason Road in Willington at the trailhead with the Blue-Blazed Nipmuck Trail, which crosses Mason Road about 0.8 miles north of its intersection with Route 44. Info: Kathy at (860) 429-8384.

SCOTLAND HUNTINGTON HOMESTEAD OPEN HOUSE
The last open house of the year will go from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tour guides lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence. The museum is located on Route 14 just west of the Scotland town center. Free admission, donations welcome. For off-season tours, call (860) 423-1547.

SATURDAY BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Hospice of Eastern Connecticut will hold its Saturday bereavement group at 34 Ledgebrook Drive, Mansfield, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Group is appropriate for those grieving a year or more. Info: (860) 456-7288, ext. 293.

CEMETERY WALKING TOUR
The Nathan Hale Cemetery walking tour will take participants on an easy walk through the Nathan Hale Cemetery from its oldest grave (1716) to its most famous, the Nathan Hale Monument. Partakers will meet at the Nathan Hale Cemetery on Lake Street in Coventry at 1 p.m. Info: contact the Nathan Hale Homestead at (860) 742-6917.

HISTORIC SCHOOLHOUSE OPEN HOUSE
There will be an open house at the historic Eagleville Schoolhouse in Mansfield from 1 to 3 p.m. It is located at the intersection of South Eagleville Road and Route 32. Info: www.joshuaslandtrust.org.

ANNUAL PHOTO SHOW – WILLIMANTIC
Quiet Corner Camera Club will host its seventh annual photo show. The gallery is open from 1 to 6 p.m. at ArtSpace, 480 Main St., Willimantic. Free of charge.

ROAST BEEF DINNER – LEBANON
Lebanon Goshen Congregational Church Fellowship Hall, 157 Church Road, Lebanon, will host a roast beef dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Adults $10, seniors $9, children 5-12 $5. Info: (860) 886-1717.

Sunday, October 16

SUNDAY BUFFET BREAKFAST
The 5th District American Legion and Legion Auxiliary will be hosting a Buffet Breakfast at the Lebanon American Legion Post 180, 567 Exeter Rd. (Rt. 207), Lebanon from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. $7 adults; $6 seniors; $3 children 6 -12; under 5 free. Proceeds to benefit ongoing Veteran projects.

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET
The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park off Route 44 across from Ashford Town Hall. The market will run every Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October. Info: Loretta at birdeye123@earthlink.net.

COVENTRY FARMERS MARKET
The Coventry Farmers Market is held at the Nathan Hale Homestead at 2299 South St. The market will run every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. Info: www.coventryfarmersmarket.com.

13TH ANNUAL CT RENAISSANCE FAIRE
The Connecticut Renaissance Faire will be held at the Hebron Lions Fairgrounds, 347 Gilead St., Hebron, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Rain or shine. The faire runs weekends through Oct. 16. General admis­sion $16, $10 for youth (5-12) and under 5 are free. Parking $3. Info: visit www.ctfaire.com or call (860) 478-5954.

OPEN FARM SUNDAY
Blue Slope Farm, 138 Blue Hill Rd., Franklin will host their Open Farm Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wagon rides (weather permitting), Blue Slop Country Museum and Museum Store.

ANDOVER SHOWCASE
The Andover Economic Development Commission (EDC) is having a Showcase from Noon to 3p.m. at the Community Room in the Town Hall. We will be show­casing town committees and orga­nizations, as well as any local busi­nesses wishing to participate. There will be local entertainment in the Gazebo. Any committees, organi­zations or businesses that wish to have a table at the showcase, please contact John Golemba at (860) 305-2630 or send a message to ando­veredc@yahoo.com by Oct. 10th. Any local musicians wishing to per­form, please call Patrick Dougherty at (860) 877-0122.

5K CROP HUNGER WALK
CROP WALK (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) will be held at the Coventry Fire Dept. Sub-station, South St. & Judd Rd., Coventry. Registration, 12:30, walk begins at 1 p.m. Info. (860) 742-6618

BUTTERWORTH MARIONETTES TO PERFORM IN WILLIMANTIC
Renowned puppeteer Dan Butterworth and his Marionettes will be at EASTCONN’s Capitol Theater, 896 Main St., Willimantic at 2 p.m. To learn more, visit www.butterworthproductions.com. The Friday marionette performance at the Capitol Theater is intended for grown- ups and families. The Sunday performance is geared specifically toward families with younger children. $10/person. No other discounts apply. All proceeds will benefit the ACT senior class. Info./ tickets Capitol Theater Box Office (860) 465-5636.

BOOK SIGNING – COLUMBIA
2 p.m., in Yeomans Hall, Rte. 87, Columbia, “Restoration of a New England Farm” a digital slide show and book signing by Tom and Susan Crossen will be held. Featured will be an illustrated discussion of the restoration of the impressive Booth-Dimmock Homestead in Coventry. The program is a virtual “how to” guide for house and barn restora­tion. The program is free and all are welcome.

Posted 10-14-2011

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