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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Columbus Day Weekend events- A little known witch-hunt, fancy Colt revolvers, art exhibits and much more

Saturday, Oct. 8

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.

LEBANON FARMERS’ MARKET

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

HEBRON FARMERS MARKET

The Hebron Farmers Market will be open for the last time this season on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the grounds of Church of Hope and the Red Barn at the intersection of Routes 66 and 85 in Hebron,

YOM KIPPUR – WILLIMANTIC

Temple B’nai Israel, 345 Jackson St., Willimantic will hold Yom Kippur services: a morning service beginning at 9:30 a.m.; Torah Service at 10:45 a.m., Services of Memory, at 11: 45 a.m.; Avodah and Musaf, 12:30 p.m., Services conclude at 1 p.m. The library and sanctuary will remain open for the afternoon. Rav Jeremy will conduct a study session for those who wish to participate. Jonah, Minchah 5:15 p.m., Ne’ilah, 6:15 p.m., Final Shofar and Havdalah, 7:05 p.m. Break-the-Fast for the Entire Community will be at 7:15 p.m. Info: (860) 423-3743.

13TH ANNUAL CT RENAISSANCE FAIRE

The Connecticut Renaissance Faire will be held at the Hebron Lions Fairgrounds, Route 85/347 Gilead St., Hebron, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. rain or shine. The faire runs weekends through Oct. 16. General admission is $16, or $10 for youth (5-12) and children under age 5 are admitted free. Parking fee is $3. Info: visit www.ctfaire.com or call (860) 478-5954.

JURIED FINE ART GALLERY

The Juried Fine Arts Gallery will be open at the Nassiff ‘s Building, 745 Main St., Willimantic from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info. www.WilliARTSFiesta.com

PUMPKIN FEST – COVENTRY

The annual Coventry Pumpkin Festival will be held at Patriots Park, Coventry, from noon to 3 p.m. Event features Halloween-theme activities and a play day. New this year will be vendors and demonstrations encouraging active living. Scavenger hunt, pumpkin carving and more. Cost is $10 ages 2-14. Wear a costume!

MEMORABILIA EXHIBIT – WilliARTSFiesta

The Memorabilia Exhibit will be open from noon to 4 p.m. at the Bellingham Auditorium in Windham Town Hall, 979 Main St, Willimantic. Info. www.WilliARTSFiesta.com

ANNUAL CAR SHOW – WINDHAM TECH

Windham Technical High School, Birch Street, Willimantic, will hold its 4th annual Car Show from noon to 4 p.m. Sponsored by Dream Machines Car Club. Free. Food, music, raffles and trophies will be available. Event to benefit Windham Tech PTO. Rain date is Oct. 9.

CHILI FEST – COVENTRY GOP

The Coventry Republican Town Committee is hosting the Coventry Chili Fest at the Lodge at Patriots Park, 172 Lake St., Coventry, from noon to 4 p.m. If you are a fan of chili, come on down and taste the different varieties that will be offered. This event is for anyone who would like to attend. Coventry Republican candidates also will be in attendance to answer questions.

SECOND PATTERN GLASS ID DAY

A second early American pattern glass (1840-1915) identification day will be held at the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House in Lebanon from noon to 4 p.m. Antiques dealer Deb Jani, whose collection is currently on display, has studied the thousands of patterns used in the production of this historic glass and will help identify the patterns. Admission is free but there is a charge of $1 per evaluated item; the fees will be donating to the museum. The museum, owned by the town of Lebanon, is located at 780 Trumbull Highway (Route 87). Info: Alicia Wayland, (860) 642-7987.

LETTERBOXING AT THE HOMESTEAD

Connecticut Landmarks Hale Homestead in Coventry staff will present “Letterboxing at the Nathan Hale Homestead,” 2299 South St., Coventry at 1 p.m. Participants can follow the clues and wander through the farm and forest in search of hidden letterboxes. Bring your own letterboxing gear, a limited number of kits will be available for purchase for beginners. Info: (860) 742-6917

HISTORIC SCHOOLHOUSE – STORRS/MANSFIELD

An open house will take place at the historic Eagleville Schoolhouse from 1 to 3 p.m. The schoolhouse is located at the intersection of South Eagleville Road (Route 275) and Route 32 in Mansfield. Light refreshments. Info: www.joshuaslandtrust.org or stop by the Joshua’s Trust office. Office is open on Thursdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. and Saturdays in October from 1 to 3 p.m.

DOUBLE TIME: VISUAL ARTS FACULTY EXHIBITION 2011

The Double Time: Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition 2011 will be open from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Akus Gallery, Eastern Connecticut State University, Shafer Hall, 83 Windham St., Willimantic. Info: www.easternct.edu/akusgallery

ANNUAL PHOTOGRAPHIC SHOW

The Quiet Corner Camera Club invites the public to attend its seventh annual photographic show at ArtSpace, 480 Main St., Willimantic from 6 to 9 p.m. Refreshments will be available and there is no charge to attend. Following the reception, the show will run on weekends in October from1 to 6 p.m.

SCOOBIE AND THE POUND HOUNDS

Scoobie and the Pound Hounds perform at 6 p.m. at Fred’s Brick House Café, 1681 W. Main St., Willimantic. Info: (860) 423-2615 or www.fredsbrickhouse.com

MUSIC BY THE EDNA PROJECT AND CATHY KREGER

The Bread Box, 220 Valley St., Willimantic, inside St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, will present the music of The Edna Project and Cathy Kreger at 7: 30 p.m. Admission $10. All proceeds benefit the Covenant Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry in Willimantic. Tickets are available on Main St., Willimantic, or by calling (860) 429-4220.

‘BROADWAY: A MUSICAL JOURNEY’

“Broadway: A Musical Journey,” a benefit recital featuring Annette and Dan Pavone, will be held at the Burton Leavitt Theatre, 779 Main St., Willimantic, at 8 p. m. The program will include solos, duets and quartets from musicals such as Guys & Dolls, The Secret Garden, Camelot, Wicked, The Fantasticks, Beauty and the Beast, Candide, and many more. Info: (860) 423-2245 and windhamtheatreguild.org.

Sunday, Oct. 9

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.

FINE ART AND CRAFT EXHIBIT/SALE, CANTERBURY

The Finish American Heritage Society Hall, 76 North Canterbury Road (Route 169), Canterbury, will host its fine art and craft exhibit and sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored in conjunction with The Last Green Valley’s Walktober. Info: (860) 974-2760 or (860) 774-4337.

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

DIANA’S POOL WALK

The Friends of Goodwin are co- sponsoring a walk along the Natchaug River at “Diana’s Pool” at 11 a.m. Steve Broderick and former Chaplin First Selectman Rusty Lanzit (a Friend of Goodwin member) will lead this 45-minute walk along the river. Diana’s Pool is on the east side of Route 198 in Chaplin just north of the Route 6 and 198 intersection.

DOWNTOWN COUNTRY FAIR

The Downtown Country Fair, sponsored by The Willimantic Food Coop, will be held in the parking lot at 91 Valley St., Willimantic, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Farmer’s market, crafts, music, great food, games for all ages. Free admission. Info: (860) 456-3611.

MEMORABILIA EXHIBIT – WilliARTSFiesta

The Memorabilia Exhibit will be open from noon to 4 p.m. at the Bellingham Auditorium in Windham Town Hall, 979 Main St., Willimantic. Info: www.WilliARTSFiesta.com

ILLUSTRATED TALK BY VICKI SEAR

The Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury Road (Routes 14 and 169) in Canterbury, will host an illustrated talk from 2 to 4 p.m. on the research done this past summer by Bryn Mawr College Alumnae Regional Scholar Summer Funding Recipient, Vicki Sear. Program will also include a tour of the Westminster Congregational Church and cemetery ( 395 Westminster Road, Canterbury) with the Rev. David Gladden, church Pastor. The program, which begins at the museum, is included in regular museum admission and is part of the Last Green Valley’s Walktober events. Info: (860) 546-7800, www.thelastgreenvalley.org or www.CTvisit.com

DOUBLE TIME: VISUAL ARTS FACULTY EXHIBIT

The Double Time: Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition 2011 will be open from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Akus Gallery, Eastern Connecticut State University, Shafer Hall, 83 Windham St., Willimantic. Info: www.easternct.edu/akusgallery

COLT REVOLVERS SHOW AND TELL

Colt collector Frank Wemple will give a “show and tell” presentation about cased Colt revolvers at the Mansfield Historical Society Museum, 954 Storrs Road (Route 195), Storrs-Mansfield, across from the Altnaveigh Inn at 2 p.m. During the era of the percussion revolver in the mid- 1800s, many Colt handguns ended up in fancy partitioned cases with several accessories. Several cased Colt revolvers will be on display and Wemple will discuss some of the common questions surrounding such sets.

NEW ENGLAND’S OTHER WITCH HUNT

The Connecticut State Museum of Natural History presents “New England’s Other Witch Hunt: The Hartford Crisis of the 1660s,” a lecture by Dr. Walter Woodward, Connecticut State Historian and associate history professor at the University of Connecticut. The lecture will be held in the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History on the UConn Storrs Campus, Hillside Drive, at 3 p.m. Program is open to adults and children ages 8 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free. Advance registration is not required. To contact the museum, visit http://www.cac.uconn.edu/mnhcurrentcalendar.html or call (860) 486-4460.

DEEP ELLUM PERFORMS

Deep Ellum 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

Coming up

VENDORS WANTED – Ashford Fall Fair & Bake Sale

Vendors are needed for a Nov. 5 event that will last from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Ashford Senior Center, Route 44/25 Tremko Lane in Ashford. Spaces are $15 per table. Lunch will be available. Contact Connie (860) 974- 1425 or the Ashford Senior Center (860) 487-5122 for more information.

Posted Oct. 7, 2011

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Annual Dog Days, Festivals, fundraiser breakfasts and more this weekend

Saturday October 1

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.

ANNUAL DOG DAYS
Windham 4 Paws Shelter animal fundraiser will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Jillson Square, Main Street, Willimantic. Fun event for the whole family. Dog show registration at 9 a.m. Tag sale, vendor space available, and vaccination clinic held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rabies shots, $5. Info: (860) 423-3327.

PRAYER BREAKFAST AND ANNUAL MEETING
The Greater Willimantic Unit of Church Women United will hold their annual Prayer Breakfast and Annual Meeting starting at 9 a.m., fol­lowed by the program and annual meeting. The event will take place at Friends Meeting House on North Eagleville Road in Storrs. Info. Karen Burnham, (860) 455-0647.

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 (860) 617-8897.

HEBRON FARMERS MARKET
The Hebron Farmers Market, located on the grounds of Church of Hope streets and the Red Barn at the intersection of Routes 66 and 85 in Hebron, is held every Saturday through Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

FALL FESTIVAL
Blue Slope Country Museum, 138 Blue Hill Road., Franklin, will be holding a fall festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission $6, children 4-10, $4. Lots of activities for the family. No pets or alcoholic beverages. Info: (860) 642-6413 or www.blueslope.com.

NINTH ANNUAL WILLINGTON CAR SHOW
Sponsored by the Town of Willington and Connecticut Street Legends and held on the town green from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rain date Sunday.

SCOTLAND HUNTINGTON HOMESTEAD OPEN HOUSE
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. tour guides lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence. The Gov. Samuel Huntington Trust opens the Homestead on the first and third Saturdays of each month through October and is located on Route 14 just west of the Scotland town center. Free admission, donations welcome. Info: (860) 423-1547.

FIRE DEPARTMENT OPEN HOUSE
Andover Volunteer Fire Department will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the firehouse on School Road. Many events scheduled with hands on activities.

FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 40 Cedar Swamp Road, Hampton, will host a family fun festival from 1 to 4 p.m. Children’s events, bingo and much more. Tickets required for games (20 tickets-$10). Info: (860) 455-0294.

CUBAN-STYLE PIG ROAST
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 40 Cedar Swamp Road, Hampton, will host a Cuban-style pig roast from 4 to 6 p.m. Adult $15, children 10 and under $5, family $40. Tickets (860) 455-0294

HAUNTED CORN MAZE
Connecticut Landmarks’ Nathan Hale Homestead presents the annual haunted corn maze from 7 to 9 p.m., and will feature four nights complete with ghosts, goblins and ghouls. $8/person, or $25 for families. The maze is not recommended for very young children. Treats will be available for sale. The Nathan Hale Homestead is located at 2299 South Street in Coventry.

Sunday Oct. 2

VFW SUNDAY BREAKFAST
VFW Post 1724, Main Street, Willimantic, is hosting a Sunday breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Senior discount available.

CANTERBURY VFW BREAKFAST
Canterbury VFW, Route 169, North Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host a Sunday breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. $5.50 with 5 years and under free.

FALL FESTIVAL
Blue Slope Country Museum, 138 Blue Hill Road, Franklin, will hold a fall festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission $6, children 4-10, $4. Lots of activities for the family. No pets or alcoholic beverages. Info: (860) 642-6413 or www.blueslope.com.

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.

FARM DAY
Foster Hill Farm, 21 Stafford St., Stafford Springs, will host a farm day from 11 a. m. to 4 p. m. Free event featuring farms, businesses and vendors that are agriculturally based in the area. There will be interac­tive live animal displays and crafts for children. Raffle to benefit the Stafford Animal Control. Info: Kim Milikowski (860) 729-6310 or e­mail kim@fosterhillfarmdonkeys.com.

13TH ANNUAL 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.

Posted 9-30-2011

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Coventry to hold lake paddle on Saturday

Coventry resi­dents will be educated about the history of Lake Wangumbaug (Coventry Lake) during an event Saturday (Oct. 1).

“Wonderful Waters of Lake Wangumbaug Paddle” will be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Patriots Park Band shell.

During the orientation, residents will be informed of the history of the lake, land uses and recreational opportunities.

They will also be educated about the community’s efforts to raise awareness and protect water quality and property values in the watershed.

Individuals will be taken on a 3.5-mile tour of the lake, during which they will be directed to dif­ferent points of interest.

Participants must be able to safely operate a canoe or kayak to participate in this activity.

The paddle will be canceled in the event of a heavy rainstorm.

Posted 9-26-2011

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Lots of things to do on this first weekend of Fall

Saturday, Sept. 24

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

USED BOOK SALE – LEBANON
The Jonathan Trumbull Library, Routes 87 and 207, Lebanon, will host a used book sale from 9 to 3 p.m. Sale will also be held on Sunday, Sept. 25, from 12:30 to 3 p.m. No admission. Info: (860) 642-7763.

ANNUAL ANTIQUES SHOW – LEBANON
Enjoy the great outdoors at the 45th annual antiques show on the his­toric Lebanon green from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $5/adults and parking is free. Event sponsored by the Lebanon Historical Society. Info: (860) 642-6579 or e-mail museum@HistoryofLebanon.org. Rain or shine.

VFW BOOK SALE – CANTERBURY
The Canterbury VFW, 21 N. Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host a book sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

NETWORK HUMAN SERVICES FALL FESTIVAL
Network, Inc., 23 Route 6, Andover, a nonprofit serving people with special needs, is holding its first annual Network Human Services Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults and $5 for children. All proceeds will benefit individuals with developmental disabilities. Info: Kathleen McLean at kmclean@network-programs.com or (860) 753-2923 or see www.network-programs.com.

THRIFT SHOP AND KID’S BOUTIQUE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique is open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church on 199 Valley St., Willimantic. New items every week. Donations of new or gently used clean adult (men’s and women’s) and children’s clothing and other children’s items gratefully accepted. Info: (860) 423-6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

LIBRARY BOOK SALE – SOUTH WINDHAM
The Guilford Smith Memorial Library, 17 Main St., South Windham, will host a book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: (860) 423-5159 or www.guilfordsmith.org.

ANNUAL TORI/OPEN AIR MARKET
The Finnish American Heritage Society, Route 169, Canterbury, will hold its annual Tori/Open Air Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: (860) 564-7432.

ANNUAL TAG SALE FREEDOM GREEN – MANSFIELD
The Villages at Freedom Green, off Mansfield City Road, Mansfield, will be holding its annual tag sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain or shine.

COMMUNITY TAG SALE
Kingdom Life Christian Outreach Church, 120 Union St., Willimantic, will be hosting a community tag sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Benefits the Community Youth Center. Info: (860) 634-8320.

HARVEST FAIR – LEBANON
First Baptist Church of Lebanon, 694 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, will host its annual Harvest Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pies and other baked goods, tag sale, lunch, hand-crafted items and more expected.

SEVENTH ANNUAL COLUMBIA FARMERS MARKET
The Columbia Farmers Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Columbia Town Green with parking at Horace W. Porter School. Rain or shine.

HEBRON FARMERS MARKET
The Hebron Farmers Market, located on the grounds of Church of Hope streets and the Red Barn at the intersection of routes 66 and 85 in Hebron, is held Saturdays through Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

COLUMBIA – USED BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Saxton B. Little Free Library will hold a used book sale during the seventh annual Columbia Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The book sale will be held at the Chapel on the Green, Route 87, Columbia (right next to the library). Admission is free. Info: (860) 228-0350.

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

PREPARED CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES
Windham Community Memorial Hospital offers an all-day “marathon” childbirth education class from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the hospital’s education center. Cost of class is $65 for families delivering their babies at WCMH and $75 for families delivering elsewhere. Info: (860) 456-6894.

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.

PATTERN GLASS IDENTIFICATION DAY – LEBANON
Residents can bring their mystery pieces of early American pattern glass (1840-1915) to the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House from noon to 4 p. m. for identification by an expert. Antiques dealer Deb Jani, whose collection is currently on display, has studied the thousands of patterns used in the pro­duction of this historic glass and will help identify the patterns. Admission is free, but there is a charge of $1 per item, which Jani is donating to the museum. The museum, owned by the Town of Lebanon, is located at 780 Trumbull Highway (Route 87). Info: Alicia Wayland at (860) 642- 7987.

ART GALLERY OPEN HOURS – WILLIMANTIC
ArtSpace Gallery Windham, 480 Main St., Willimantic, will hold open hours from 1 to 4 p.m.

ANNUAL STEAK DINNER – ANDOVER
The Andover Volunteer Fire Department, School Road, Andover, will host its annual steak dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is $15 adults, $10 seniors and $7 for children 12 and under. Tickets at (860) 706-3074. All proceeds from the dinner will be used for the Andover Fire Department’s 75th anni­versary parade and celebration in 2013.

HAUNTED CORN MAZE – COVENTRY
Connecticut Landmarks’ Nathan Hale Homestead presents the annual haunted corn maze from 7 to 9 p.m. and will feature four nights complete with ghosts, goblins and ghouls. Cost is $8/person or $25 for families. The maze is not recommended for very young children. Treats will be avail­able for sale. The Nathan Hale Homestead is located at 2299 South St. in Coventry.

SPECIAL EVENING AT THE BREAD BOX
The Bread Box, located in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 220 Valley St., Willimantic, is hosting a special evening with Kal David, former lead singer and lead guitarist for the Fabulous Rhinestones. David will perform a rare and intimate acoustic show for the first time on the East Coast, with sto­ries and blues songs. All money raised goes directly to the Covenant Soup Kitchen & Food Pantry. The show begins at 8 p.m. and tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Fred’s Brickhouse Cafe, 1681 W. Main St., Willimantic, or by calling (860) 429-4220.

WINDHAM THEATRE GUILD: ‘DON’T DRESS FOR DINNER’
The Windham Theatre Guild kicks off its fall season with a famous farce that cooks up a menu full of belly laughs. It’s “Don’t Dress For Dinner” by Marc Camoletti, opening at the Burton Leavitt Theater, 779 Main St., Willimantic, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults, $13 for students/seniors and $9 for children under 12. All University of Connecticut, Eastern Connecticut State University and Quinebaug Valley Community College students pay the discounted price of $10. Group discounts are also avail­able. For reservations/information, call the Windham Theatre Guild (860) 423- 2245 or buy your tickets online at www.windhamtheatreguild.org.

Sunday, Sept. 25

BELLINGHAM AUDITORIUM DEDICATION
The Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association will dedicate the auditorium at Windham Town Hall on Sunday. The room is being dedicated to the late Bruce A. Bellingham, a town restoration and pres­ervation advocate. The event runs from 3 to 5 p.m. with music from the Willimantic Amphibian Jazz Ensemble and refreshments. Those plan­ning to attend Sunday’s event should call (860) 428-7573.

BUFFET BREAKFAST
Knights of Columbus Council 14, 41 Club Road, Windham will host a buffet breakfast from 7:30 to 11 a. m. Adults ( over 12) are $ 6.50, seniors $ 6, children 6-12, $5.50, 5 and under free. Take-outs available.

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.

KIDSVILLE KUCKOO REVUE
Bruce John and the Kidsville Kuckoo Revue will perform at the Storrs Downtown Festival from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. at E.O. Smith High School, Route 195, Storrs.

ANNUAL UCANRAA AUCTION AND PRE-SALE
UCANRAA will hold its 15th annual auction with a pre-sale begin­ning at 11 a.m. and the live auction starts at 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit the UCANRAA Endowed Scholarship Fund and support the students, faculty and alumni of The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. For infor­mation, log on to http://www.cornucopia.uconn.edu/auction.html. Event held at the University of Connecticut, Route 195 and North Eagleville Road, in Storrs. Info: e-mail Pam Chudzik at Pamela.chudzik@uconn.edu.

FREE FAMILY CONCERT – CHAPLIN
The Chaplin Senior Center, Chaplin Street, Chaplin will sponsor a free family concert featuring the “The Electric Trains” at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be sold, with proceeds to benefit the programs of the senior center. Info: (860) 455-1327.

POTATO PANCAKE FESTIVAL
Moriah Lodge No. 15, 220 Providence Road, Brooklyn, will hold a Potato Pancake Festival from noon to 3 p.m. Dine-in or take-out. Cost is $ 10/person. Tours of the lodge building will be available.

HOMESTEADING SKILLS WORKSHOP SERIES
Connecticut Landmarks and the Coventry Regional Farmers’ Market present the 2011 Homesteading Skills Workshop Series as part of Farmers’ Market Sundays at the Nathan Hale Homestead from 2 to 4 p.m. $25/per­son. Registration required. Info./register, visit http://www.eventbrite.com/org/1048326273?s=3763197, which can also be accessed from the event calendar at www.ctlandmarks.org. Day of registration is available at the Coventry Farmers’ Market Master’s table if spots remain available.

8TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL ON THE GREEN
The 8th annual Festival on the Green in Mansfield will take place from noon to 5 p.m. in the parking lots of E.O. Smith High School. For more information, visit www.mansfieldct.org/mdp.

USED BOOK SALE – LEBANON
Jonathan Trumbull Library, routes 87 and 207, Lebanon will, host a used book sale from 12:30 to 3 p.m. No admission. Info: (860) 642-7763.

WINDHAM THEATRE GUILD: ‘DON’T DRESS FOR DINNER’
The Windham Theatre Guild kicks off its fall season with a famous farce that cooks up a menu full of belly laughs. It’s “Don’t Dress For Dinner” by Marc Camoletti, opening at the Burton Leavitt Theater, 779 Main St., Willimantic, at 2 and 8 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults, $13 for students/ seniors and $9 for children under 12. All University of Connecticut, Eastern Connecticut State University and Quinebaug Valley Community College students pay the discounted price of $10. Group discounts are also avail­able. For reservations/information, call the Windham Theatre Guild (860) 423- 2245 or buy your tickets online at www.windhamtheatreguild.org.

Posted 9-23-2011

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Brochure is available for Walktober

courtesy lastgreenvalley.org

Fall is the perfect season to cel­ebrate the great outdoors in The Last Green Valley.

The air is crisp and the leaves transform into brilliant autumnal colors.

What better way to embrace the season than by getting out of the house and exploring the natu­ral wonders where northeastern Connecticut residents live?

The Last Green Valley organiza­tion has a brochure available that highlights all that is Walktober, the group’s annual month-long fall celebration of the region.

The brochures will help people enjoy at least one of the more than 100 free guided hikes, walks, and paddles during the month of October.

In addition, it highlights Walk­tober and more than 35 special events throughout the 35 towns of The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor in northeast­ern Connecticut and south central Massachusetts.

The variety of Walktober in­cludes “Much More Than Moos” in Franklin, where people can visit cows and the calving pen then hike through fields and forest to see more baby calves.

A 3.5-mile paddle on the “Won­derful Waters of Wangumbaug in Coventry,” traverses through the scenic countryside, along one of the most bucolic sections of the river.

There is a walk especially for the little ones, “Trails, Tracking & Tales” in Brimfield, Mass., where kids will hike along the inner trails of the Woods at Long Pond to explore wetlands, rock forma­tions and track the local wildlife.

There is also a unique walk entitled “The Old Connecticut Path,” led by Connecticut State Archaeologist, Nicholas Bellan­toni, which will lead participants along a section of the colonial road from Boston to Hartford that many of the English traveled to settle the Connecticut River Valley in the 1600s.

Space on this particular walk is by advanced registration only and is limited to the first 30 people by calling (860) 486-4460.

History buffs will not want to miss Historic Heins Farm in Sturbridge, Mass., located high above Old Sturbridge Village, where they will enjoy 84 acres of spectacular views while taking a look back in time viewing the remains of the Old Worcester-Stafford Turnpike.

The multitude of special ev­ents featured during Walktober includes downtown Putnam’s First Friday Event, the third annual Brimfield Antique Auto Show in Brimfield, Mass., the Annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival at Roseland Cottage in Woodstock and two corn maze adventures in Thompson and Sterling.

An Owl Prowl in Ashford at Horizon Wings will feature native owls. This event has been resched­uled to Oct. 22 7 p.m.

Call The Last Green Valley toll­ free at (866) 363-7226 for a bro­chure or visit www.thelastgreenvalley.org.

Posted 9-22-2011

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Things to do this weekend – tag sales, fund raisers, festivals and more

Saturday, Sept. 17

TAG SALE – WILLIMANTIC
Community Companion and Homemaking Services, 90 S. Park St., Willimantic, will sponsor a tag sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Many donated items. All funds support in-home services for elderly and disabled. Info: (860) 456-3626.

PAPER SHRED-A-THON FUNDRAISER
Columbia Congregational Church will conduct a paper shread-a-­thon in the Old Fire Station parking lot on Rte. 66 in Columbia from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Clear out old papers and financial records. Paper clips and staples do not need to be removed.

HEBRON FARMERS MARKET
The Hebron Farmers Market, located on the grounds of Church of Hope streets and the Red Barn at the intersection of Routes 66 and 85 in Hebron, is held every Saturday through Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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

DAR TAG SALE
The ninth annual Daughters of the American Revolution tag sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Route 14 near Douglas Manor in Windham. Rain date is Sept. 18.

ANNUAL TAG, BAKE AND BOOK SALE
Jensen’s Rolling Hills Retirement Community, Route 44 (1/4 mile west of Route 195) in Storrs will host its annual tag, bake and book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain or shine. Info: Irene at (860) 487-9408.

CREATIVE MEMORIES WITH LORRAINE
Janet Carlson Calvert Library, 5A Tyler Drive, Franklin will host Creative Memories with Lorraine from 10 a.m. to noon. Info: (860) 642-6207.

FALL FESTIVAL – ST. JOSEPH LIVING CENTER
St. Joseph Living Center, 14 Club Road, Windham will hold its Fall Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rain or shine. Info. (860) 456-1107.

PUPPET BUILDING WORKSHOP
Visitors can join the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry and the Mansfield Downtown Partnership in building a piece of Mansfield’s history. Dr. John Bell of the Ballard Institute and Sara Peattie, director of Boston’s famed Puppeteers Cooperative, will lead a community puppet­building workshop at the Mansfield Community Center from 10 a. m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. in the arts and crafts room. Information/registra­tion, call (860) 429-2740 or e-mail mdp@mansfieldct.org.

FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL – COVENTRY
The Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 10 North River Road, Coventry, will host the third annual Family Fun Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: (860) 742-7548.

SCOTLAND HUNTINGTON HOMESTEAD OPEN HOUSE
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., tour guides will lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The Gov. Samuel Huntington Trust opens the Homestead on the first and third Saturdays of each month through October and is located on Route 14 just west of the Scotland town center. Free admis­sion, donations welcome. Info: (860) 423-1547.

SATURDAY BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Hospice of Eastern Connecticut will hold their Saturday Bereavement Group. The group is held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 34 Ledgebrook Drive Mansfield. Group is appropriate for those who are grieving a year or more. Group is open to the community. Info. (860) 456-7288 ext. 293.

ART GALLERY OPEN HOURS
ArtSpace Gallery Windham, 480 Main St., Willimantic, will hold open hours from 1 to 4 p.m.

TEA AND SCONES AT THE MUSEUM
The Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, presents its monthly Tea and Scones program at 3 p.m. The program will be an interactive talk about early Connecticut schoolhouses and famous local teachers such as Nathan Hale, Eleazer Wheelock and Prudence Crandall. The event includes tea, scones, cookies and chocolates. $15 for adults and $10 for members and children. The event is by reservation only. Call (860) 456-2178.

BENEFIT SPAGHETTI DINNER – LEBANON
The Redeemer Lutheran Church, Village Hill Road, Lebanon, will host a benefit spaghetti dinner from 4 to 8 p.m.

ROAST PORK DINNER
Second Congregational Church in Coventry is hosting a roast pork dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the community house. Adults $10; seniors $9; children between 6 and 8, $5 and under 6 free. Takeouts are available. Reservations can be made by calling (860) 742-1616.

HAM AND BEAN SUPPER
Echo Grange No. 180 will host a ham and bean supper at the Grange Hall, 483 Storrs Road (Route 195), in Mansfield Center from 5 to 7 p.m. Proceeds from the supper will be used to further community service projects. Tickets will be sold at the door: Adults, $8, seniors, $7, chil­dren 4-12, $5 and children under 4 are free. Take-outs are available.
Sunday, September 18

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 from 10 a. m. to 1 p. m. through October. Info: Loretta at birdeye123@earthlink.net.

PUPPET BUILDING WORKSHOP
Visitors can join the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry and the Mansfield Downtown Partnership in building a piece of Mansfield’s history. Dr. John Bell of the Ballard Institute and Sara Peattie, director of Boston’s famed Puppeteers Cooperative, will lead a community puppet-building work­shop at the Mansfield Community Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. in the arts and crafts room. Information/registration, call (860) 429-2740 or e-mail mdp@mansfieldct.org.

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.

DOG WASH – UCONN
The University of Connecticut’s PreVet Club will host a dog wash from noon to 4 p.m. at the UConn Kellog Dairy Center, Horsebarn Hill Road, off Route 195, Storrs. Large dogs, $12, medium $10, small $8 and nails trimmed $5.

GENEALOGY WORKSHOP
A beginner’s workshop in gene­alogy will be presented by Mary F. Brown at the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House at 1 p.m. She will provide guidance to reliable search engines and other resources for begin­ning researchers in family history. Suitable for teenagers as well as adults. There is no charge. However, seating is limited so call Alicia Wayland (860) 642-7987 to reserve a seat. The house, owned by the town of Lebanon, is located at 780 Trumbull Highway (Route 87).

RECEPTION, READING AND SIGNING OF ‘SINGING HER ALIVE’
The Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, will host a reception, reading and signing of ‘Singing Her Alive’ from 2 to 4 p.m. Local author, Diana K. Perkins writes a compelling story about taboo love in an historical Willimantic mill setting. Info: (860) 456-2178.

CIVIL WAR MUSIC PROGRAM
Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, will host a Civil War program at 4 p.m. Free program is called “Greatest Hits of the Civil War” by Rick Spencer, donations wel­come, CDs available in conjunction with the exhibition “The Civil War: Connecticut’s Cotton Connection.” Info: (860) 456-2178.
Posted 9-16-2011

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Farmers markets, tag sales, music and more this weekend

Saturday, September 10

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.

HEBRON FARMERS MARKET
The Hebron Farmers Market, located on the grounds of Church of Hope and the Red Barn at the intersection of routes 66 and 85 in Hebron, is held every Saturday through Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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

ANNUAL TAG SALE
Saint Philip Church of Ashford and Saint Jude Church of Willington will hold their annual tag sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Philip’s Center, 64 Pompey Hollow Road (Route 44), Ashford. Rain or shine. Space available for $25. Info: Rose Bergeron (860) 429-9212 or call Saint Philips Rectory (860) 429-2860.

INDOOR TAG SALE
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 40 Cedar Swamp Road, Hampton, will hold a fundraiser tag sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Antiques and interesting items for sale.

SUMMER READING FINALE
Janet Carlson Calvert Library, 5A Tyler Drive, Franklin will host a summer reading finale for teens and adults at 10 a.m. Info: (860) 642-6207.

HANDS-ON SPINNING DEMO
Join spinner Jill Padelford in a hands-on demonstration of colonial spinning at the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House, 780 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon from noon to 4 p.m. Rain or shine. Free admission. Info: (860) 642-7987.

KIDS CLUB EVENT: TEA TIME
The Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, will host its September Kids Club activity, Tea Time from 1 to 2:30 p.m. There will be having a tea party so bring a doll or stuffed animal to tea. Learn about what tea is, how tea was discovered and how to behave at a tea party. Kids Club members free. General admission: $5 for children, $2 for adults. All supplies and refreshments included. Call (860) 456-2178 to register.

WINE AND SPIRITS TASTING FUNDRAISER
The Friends of the Babcock Library is planning its annual Gifts from the Vine event, a wine and spirits tasting fundraiser, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Eastern Connecticut State University’s Church Farm Center for Arts and Sciences, 396 Warrenville Road, Ashford. In addition an art show and sale and silent auction will be included in the event. Tickets for the event are $25/person available at the Babcock Library, 25 Pompey Hollow Road, Ashford, or by calling (860) 487-4420. They can also be purchased at the Church property on the day of the event.

ROAST TURKEY DINNER
First Congregational Church of Coventry, 1171 Main St., Coventry, will host a roast turkey dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $6 children 6-12 and free under 6. Open to the public. Take-out available.

CHICKEN BARBECUE – HAMPTON
Hampton Congregational Church, 263 Main St., Hampton will host a chicken barbecue from 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets $9 adults; $5 children.

ISRAEL/PALESTINE PEACE AND ACTION GROUP
Palestine and Israel at the United Nations in September will be the subject of a public forum sponsored by the Israel/Palestine Peace, Education and Action Group of Northeastern Connecticut at 7:30 p.m. at the Storrs Friends (Quakers) Meetinghouse, 57 Hunting Lodge Road. Lawrence Davidson, professor of history and specialist in the Middle East, West Chester University, West Chester, Pa., will speak. Info: (860) 429-3107.

THE BREAD BOX
The Bread Box Folk Music Series opens Saturday night with Sandy Bailey at 7:30 p.m. Located in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 220 Valley St., Willimantic. $10 and all proceeds from the shows goes directly to the Covenant Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry.

MUMS FOR GOP FUNDRAISER – ANDOVER
The Andover Republican Town Committee is selling nursery quality mums in 9-inch pots for $6 for fall as a fundraiser. Available colors are white, yellow, orange, purple and burgundy. The sale will run through Sept. 11. Order forms may be obtained from any Andover RTC member or at the Andover Town Clerk’s office, 17 School Road, during normal business hours. Pay by cash or check at time of ordering. Mums can be picked up on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Andover Town Office Building at 17 School Road.

Sunday, September 11

VFW SUNDAY BREAKFAST
VFW Post 1724, Main St., Willimantic. is hosting a Sunday Breakfast from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Senior discount available.

NY FIREFIGHTER TO SPEAK AT CHURCH SERVICE
Firefighter 1st Grade Mike Wood, from New York City will speak at the 10 a.m. service at Christian Life Assembly of God, 143 Windham Rd., Willimantic. Mr. Wood served in the rescue operations during the attack on the World Trade Center in New York searching for survivors and working to secure the site for safety. Firefighter Wood will share video and slides of his work at the Towers. He will display his firefighter uni­form and equipment giving a sense of the importance of his work in keeping communities safe. Senior Pastor Dr. Richard Lafferty invites the public to this special worship service. All events are free and nursery care is available for the Sunday service.

JAZZ IN THE GARDEN
Jazz in the Garden is a blend of jazz, appetizers and desserts, open bar and a silent auction of original works. The event benefits the Windham Free Library and is held in an Italianate villa home and garden in the Windham Center Green, the largest historic district in Connecticut from 3 to 6 p.m. Tickets $45. For reservations or additional information, call (860) 423- 0636 or visit www.WindhamFreeLibrary.org.

Posted 9-9-2011

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10th Annual Morell Golf Tourney set for Sept. 23 in Coventry

Like the weath­er turning cool and the leaves changing color, the annual MS fundraiser hosted by Mike Morell and his brother, Glenn, is a yearly rite of autumn.

“It’s definitely become a tra­dition and everyone knows that when September comes around, we’re going to be hosting our tournament,” said Mike. “It means a lot to our family and friends and we’re looking forward to another great turnout this year.”

The 10th Annual Morell Invita­tional Golf Tournament takes place Friday, Sept. 23, at the Skungamaug River Golf Course in Coventry. The tournament will have a shotgun start at 10 a.m. with four-man scramble teams and there will be a post-tourna­ment party at the French Club Pavilion, located on Country Club Road in Windham.

Mike Morell and his brother Glenn began their MS fundraising in 1988 with a basketball tournament to raise funds in honor of their late mother, who battled the disease. In 2002, the brothers decided to move in a different direction and the golf tournament was born. With a few years off, this year marks their 20th event.

“The tournament has been going great and we’re excited about returning to Skungamaug River Golf Course,” said Mike. “We’re expecting to have between 130 and 140 golfers and it’s going to be a wonderful time again.”

Last year, the tournament raised nearly $5,000 for the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter and it has raised more than $35,000 since its creation in 2002.

“We started the basketball tour­nament, and now the golf tourna­ment, to honor our mother and keep her memory alive,” said Mike. “We truly believe we’ve been able to do that and that’s why we love doing it every year. When you come to our tourna­ment, you’re going to enjoy a laid-back, blue collar afternoon with people who truly care about finding a cure for MS.”

The tournament’s committee members include Mike Morell, of Columbia, Glenn Morell, of Hampton, Alan Phaneuf, of Co­lumbia, Mark Valliere, of Lebanon, and Darren Chick, of Willimantic. Also helping in the efforts are Jillian Elliott of Hampton and Penny Sullivan of Scotland.

More than 6,000 Connecticut residents live with the effects of multiple sclerosis. The cause is unknown, and, as a result, there currently is no cure. Symptoms can include, among other things, numbness in the limbs, difficul­ties with vision and speech, stiff­ness and, in some more severe cases, total paralysis. The prog­ress, severity and specific symp­toms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted.

Funds raised through events, such as the 10th Annual Morell Invitational Golf Tournament, ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter.

The registration fee is $95 per person and includes a 20th anni­versary T-shirt, beer cozies, 18 holes of golf with cart, dinner, cash bar and prizes for first, sec­ond and third place as well as long drive and closest to the pin contest. Live entertainment will be provided by Mike’s stepson Connon D’Auteuil, who will also play a Jimi Hendrix rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” to kick the tournament off.

For more information on the tournament or to register, contact Mike Morell at (860) 228-5046 or Glenn Morell at (860) 455-9095.

To learn more about multiple sclerosis, visit the web site at www.ctfightsMS.org.

Posted 9-8-2011

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Hebron Harvest Fair begins Thursday – 40th Anniversary to Celebrate Heroes

The Hebron Lions Club brings traditions, innova­tions and some reflection to its annual event this weekend.

From a small fair in 1971 held on Wall Street near RHAM High School, the Hebron Harvest Fair has grown to one of Connecticut’s major fairs and is now held over four days on its own dedicated grounds off Route 85. Other than a temporary loss of power, the fairgrounds suffered no damage during the recent Tropical Storm Irene and the event is on track for its 40th year.

Opening ceremonies for the four-day fair are at 6 p.m. Thursday, featuring the RHAM High School band.

The theme of the 2011 fair is “Honoring Heroes.”

The fair is dedicated to a local “hero”, Ted Armata, who owned and operated the Ted’s IGA Supermarket in Hebron until his death earlier this year and was well known for his charitable contributions. The fair will also recognize other heroes while fea­turing the traditional fun that over 40 years of fairgoers have come to expect.

The fair will also provide some serious reflection as a tribute is held on the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City.

This year’s featured entertainer is country music star Darryl Worley, and one of his greatest hits is the song “Have You Forgotten?” writ­ten about the attacks. He will per­form that song during the memo­rial service. The tribute will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11, at the fairground’s center stage. The service will also include a speech, bagpipes and an honor guard.

Worley will also perform a con­cert at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Other entertainment includes the rising star talent competition, the demolition derby and the dock dogs championship.

The talent competition is open to aspiring singers, dancers, musi­cians, magicians and comedians.

Cash prizes are given to the winners of the youth division, ages 4-12, and the young adult division, ages 13-21. The talent will perform in competitions and semi-finals throughout the long weekend, with the finals held on Sunday at 5 p.m.

The traditional demolition derby will be Thursday at 7:30 p.m., and the championship derby will be Friday at 7:30 p.m.

The dock dogs championship features dogs striving to make the longest jump into a pool. Competitions and practices are held all four days.

For the first time, the fair will sponsor a juried arts and crafts show, with three judges determin­ing the best in show. The winners will be announced Friday morn­ing.

“One best in show and five hon­orable mentions will be awarded ribbons and cash prizes,” said Arts and Crafts Committee member Arlene Snyder. The handmade work will be on exhibit through­out the fair days.

Also new to the fair this year are two programs especially for families. “Tractor Mac” is a real tractor, with non-factory-stan­dard eyes and a mouth added. He accompanies Billy Steers, a children’s author who has writ­ten a series about the fictional Tractor Mac counterpart. Steers will tell stories and draw person­alized illustrations at the fair. He will appear at 10 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

Matt’s Family Jam features the five-member Rolf family, who perform a wide variety of songs appealing to both children and adults. Concerts will be held on Thursday at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.; on Friday at 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., on Saturday at noon, 3 p.m., and 7 p.m., and on Sunday at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.

More established fair traditions include both animal and mechani­cal pulls and animal exhibitions. Sheep, dairy cattle and beef cattle shows will be held at the sheep and cattle barns at 9 a.m. Saturday. The University of Connecticut’s Morgan Horse Drill Team will perform at 9 a.m. on Sunday, and a draft horse exhibition will be held Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. A truck pull will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday and an ox pull will be held at 10 a.m. on Sunday and at 11 a.m. on Saturday, a children’s pedal tractor pull will be held.

The fair runs Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from noon to 11 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission is $12 per person all four days; senior citizens are admitted free of charge between the hours of noon and 4 p.m. on Friday.

Parking is free on Thursday from 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. and on Friday from noon to 4 p.m.; at all other times the parking fee is $5 per vehicle. More information and a complete schedule is available online at the Hebron Lions Club web site, at www.hebronharvest­fair.org.

Posted 9-7-2011

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