Music and Dance
Litchfield Performing Arts presents PROJECT POETRY LIVE! on Friday, May 24 at 8 p.m. at Naugatuck Valley College Fine Arts Center, 750 Chase Rd. in Waterbury. The concert features performances from the critically acclaimed Earl Mosley's Diversity of Dance, the Don Braden Quartet, and by PPL! student dancers and musicians. The student performances are the end product of months of arts education and preparation with a team of arts professionals. Tickets are $15; for more info call 860-567-4162.
Berkshire Historical Society presents the BEAR BRIDGE BAND on Friday, May 24 from 8-10 p.m. in the relaxed and intimate barn at Arrowhead, Herman Melville's historic home at 780 Holmes Rd in Pittsfield. For more info call the Historical Society at 413-442-1793.
The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford presents THE BOYS CHOIR OF HARLEM on Saturday, May 25 at 8 p.m. in Mortensen Hall. The diverse program features selections by Bach and Mozart, four African-American spirituals, a show biz medley, a segment of patriotic songs and several gospel numbers. The BCH is known for its virtuoso performances, broad repertoire and magnetic stage presence. Since its founding in 1968, the chorus has grown from a 20-member church choir to an artistic institution, with boys' and girls' choirs and more than 500 students attending the Choir Academy of Harlem for music training and a rigorous academic program. Tickets are $12-$35; for more info call 860-987-5900.
Nutmeg Square and Round Dance Club holds a Plus Level SQUARE AND ROUND DANCE on Saturday, May 25 from 8-11 p.m. at Judson School, Hamilton Lane in Watertown. Caller is Sandy Corey from New York City, with cuer Kathy Bryant. The dance is held in a smoke-free and alcohol-free environment; spectators are always welcome. Fee charged for dancers, no fee for spectators; refreshments will be served. For more info call Mary at 860-283-9943, or Rich and Ellen at 860-274-6876.
Joyful Noise hosts a Memorial Day SALUTE TO AMERICA on Sunday, May 26 at 5 p.m. in Ozawa Hall at Tanglewood in Lenox. Salute to America celebrates our nation and our spirit of freedom. In addition to such traditional favorites as "God Bless America," the National Anthem and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," the evening's program will include Shaker songs, spirituals and selections by American composers. The groups will present several works by Aaron Copland, including "A Lincoln Portrait" featuring a special guest narrator. Admission starts at $25 adults, $12.50 children (under 12); for tickets call 888-788-8882, or for more info call 860-496-8841.
Drama and Comedy
Winsted Summer Theater Festival presents THREE ONE-ACT PLAYS BY A.R. GURNEY on Thursday through Sunday, May 23-26 at 8 p.m. in the Leanne LeClaire Room at Winsted Town Hall, 338 Main St. (Route 44) in Winsted. Performed by students of Northwestern CT Community College and written by one of New England's great playwrights, these three plays take a comic look at academia. "The Guest Lecturer" tells the story of a woman who is determined to save the local community theater and a graduate student who helps her. "The Love Course" demonstrates the impact of one woman's passion on her students and the university faculty where she teaches. "The Problem" illustrates how a professor and his socially-conscious wife solve a difficult personal problem. "The Guest Lecturer" will be presented on Thursday and Saturday, and "The Love Course" and "The Problem" on Friday and Sunday. Free and open to the public; though "G" rated, these plays would not appeal to children.
Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts presents "WASHINGTON SQUARE PARK" on Wednesday and Thursday, May 29-30 at 7:30 p.m. in the Black Box Theater on the Learning Corridor campus, 359 Washington St. in Hartford. This original work was written and directed by one of the Academy’s acting faculty, Jill Giles, who has captured the essence of everyday occurrences in the dramatic and yet witty lives of its characters. The Academy’s second-year theater students are the cast, and have also created costumes, lighting, props and the set. Admission is free, but donations would be appreciated; for more info call 860-757-6388.
The Warner Studio Theatre holds OPEN AUDITIONS for its August production of "The Fantasticks" on Sunday, June 2 from 1-9 p.m.; and Monday, June 3 from 6-9 p.m. at the Warner Theatre Center for Arts Education, 21 Water St. in Torrington. Looking to cast for both female and male roles. For more info call the Warner box office at 860-489-7180.
Connecticut Cabaret Theatre, 31/33 Webster Square Rd. in Berlin holds OPEN AUDITIONS for its July production of the comedy "Love, Sex and the IRS" on Monday and Tuesday, June 3-4 from 7:30-10 p.m. Director Kris McMurray is seeking male and female actors between the ages of 17 and 65. No appointment necessary; for more info call 860-829-1248.
Theatre Guild of Simsbury holds AUDITIONS for its November production of "Annie Get Your Gun" on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 4-5 at 7:15 p.m. at Eno Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St. (Route 10) in Simsbury. Bring your own sheet music; accompanist will be provided. Children’s auditions begin at 7 p.m.; three girls and two boys (ages 8-15) are needed. For more info call 860-658-0666.
Art Exhibits
Oliver Wolcott Library, 160 South St. (Route 63) in Litchfield is exhibiting STUDENT ARTWORK during the month of May, featuring a showcase variety of art media and techniques including landscapes, portraits, still life and abstract art from students in the Litchfield public schools. Art teachers Barbara Salinger, Rochelle Clementson, Suzanne Olsen and Robin Christopher organized the show, which is on display in the community room as well as in the display case. The gallery is always open on Monday from noon-2 p.m., Friday from 2-5 p.m., and Saturday from 3-5 p.m.; it is suggested that visitors call 860-567-8030 first to confirm that the gallery will be open during the library's other regular hours.
West Hartford Art League, 37 Buena Vista Rd. in West Hartford exhibits TRUCKS AND CARS IN THE RIVER VALLEY, watercolors by Brian Colbath through June 9. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m.; for more info call 860-521-3732.
Licia and Mason Beekley Community Library presents its 2002 COMMUNITY ART SHOW through June 15 at Act II Gallery, 14 Church St. North in New Hartford (across from the post office). The show features the work of local artists and is the first show to be held at the newly opened Act II Gallery. Gallery hours are Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 1-7 p.m., and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. The exhibit and the reception are free and open to the public; entry fees for artists' works benefit the library. For more info call 860-379-2034.
Washington Art Association in Washington Depot presents an exhibition of NEW WORK from May 25 through June 16. Featured are paintings by Steven Hicks, clay horses by Louise King, and paintings by Carol Heft. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday from 2-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-868-2878.
Harwinton Public Library, 80 Bentley Dr. in Harwinton presents "IMAGES AND THE WORD" through June 22. The exhibit may be seen during regular library hours: Monday and Wednesday from 1-8:30 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday from 1-5 p.m., and Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; for more info call 860-485-9113.
Gallery on the Green, Route 44 in Canton presents its JURIED ANNIVERSARY SHOW in the Lower Gallery from May 25 through June 22; Rachel Rosenfield was the juror for this competition. The UNDERLYING IMAGE exhibition runs concurrently in the Upper Gallery, featuring the work of Jon Eastman, Andrea Meyers, Lucy Sceery and Michael Zych. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, June 1 from 6-9 p.m.; free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 1-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-693-4102.
The Outsider Gallery, 10 Cobble Court in Litchfield presents the work of folk artist Shane Campbell, metal and glass sculptor Dana Gingras and neon artist Dennis Niedzialkowski from May 25 through June 25. There will be a reception for the artists on Saturday, May 25 from 3-7 p.m. with live music by Kevin Marquis, Mark Miller and Gill Dube, poetry reading by Alan DeLarm and Davyne Verstandig, and activities for the entire family; get your portrait painted by Collette Cox. For more info call 860-567-1286.
Kent Art Association, 21 South Main St. (Route 7) in Kent presents its annual PRESIDENT'S SHOW from May 25 through July 7. The show features more than 130 representational works in oil, watercolor, pastels, acrylics, graphics, monotypes and small sculpture, culled by jurors David Fouts, Kip Miller and Ethel Richter from a large field of submissions. All work is for sale. There will be an opening reception with refreshments on Sautrday, May 25 from 1-5 p.m.; cash prizes will be announced in a brief ceremony at 3 p.m. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m.; for more info call 860-927-3989.
New Hartford Art League CALLS LOCAL ARTISTS for its Art Show to be held from June 22 through July 20. Applications are available at the Act II Gallery in New Hartford; for more info call Norma Pappalardo at 860-379-2034.
Washington Art Association, 4 Bryan Plaza in Washington Depot is looking for ARTISTS AND CRAFTSPERSONS to submit work for its 11th annual Clothesline art And Crafts Sale on Saturday and Sunday, July 6-7; receiving day for submitted art is Wednesday, July 3 and Friday, July 5 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A wide selection of art and crafts will be considered, including pottery, fine and graphic arts, jewelry, metalwork, small sculpture, knitting and weaving, woodwork, fused and blown glass, etc.; no manufactured or imported crafts, work from kits, or artificial floral crafts will be accepted. Work should be ready to hang, and is limited to five pieces per artist; maximum size is 45" by 45". Entry fee is $8 members, $15 non-members; the Art Association will retain 30% of the sale price of each item. Craft exhibitor spaces are 10’ by 10’ and cost $40 members, $50 non-members, with larger spaces available at slightly increased rates; there will be no commission on craft sales. For more info call 860-868-2878.
Lectures and Presentations
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. in Simsbury presents local author LOUIS A. NORTON discussing his biography "Joshua Barney: Hero of the Revolution and 1812" on Friday, May 24 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Commodore Joshua Barney, a natural seaman and courageous leader, led a colorful and exciting life. Barney, who took part in 35 Revolutionary War engagements, was imprisoned three times, but escaped twice in disguise. Barney later became a national hero defending the Chesapeake during the War of 1812. He also served on the committee that designed the flag that flew over Fort McHenry and inspired Francis Scott Key's poem. Louis Arthur Norton is a native of the seaport of Gloucester, an emeritus professor at the UConn Health Center in Farmington, and author of numerous articles on maritime history. Free and open to the public; to register call 860-658-7663.
Holley-Williams House Museum, 15 Millerton Rd. (Route 44) in Lakeville offers tours at 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday through Monday, May 25-27; the property will be open from noon-5 p.m. Special for this weekend will be a film, "Votes for Women," showing the history of how women obtained the right to vote. The adjacent Salisbury Cannon Museum offers a program with Heman Allen on the furnace industry and life in Furnace Village (now known as Lakeville) in the 1700s; you can then move forward in time with Maria Holley Williams to find out about life in Lakeville in 1876. Cost is $5 adults, $3 children and seniors, under age 5 and members free.
Friends of the Canton Public Library present author FREDERICK FENN on Thursday, May 30 at 7 p.m. in the Program Room at the Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Canton. Mr. Fenn, a New Hartford resident, will discuss the process of writing his historical novel, "Journey to Common Ground." His book, the first of a trilogy, is set in the 18th century and traces the experiences of a newly married couple as they travel up the Connecticut River to the "New Hampshire Grants," now known as Vermont. Free and open to the public, but registration is requested; for more info call 860-693-5800.
Gunn Memorial Library & Museum, 5 Wykeham Rd. in Washington presents Artists' Visions: PAINTERS ANDREW FORGE AND RUTH MILLER on Thursday, May 30 at 7 p.m. in the Wykeham Room. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-868-7586.
Classes and Workshops
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, 229 East Litchfield Rd. in Litchfield hosts THE HARRIET BEECHER STOWE LECTURE AND WRITERS' RETREAT–"A Writer Who Changed the World: An Anniversary of a Revolution" on Friday through Sunday, May 31-June 2. Celebrate the 150th anniversary of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by exploring the words and ideas of this influential Litchfield author. Katherine Kane, executive director of the Harriet Beecher Stowe Society in Hartford, presents a lecture on Friday from 7:30-9 p.m., examining Stowe's life, work and commitment to social justice and positive change. On Saturday and Sunday, Frances Chamberlain, coordinator of public relations and programming at Wisdom House, conducts a workshop on writing for social change. Participants can register for the lecture only, lecture and workshop or full weekend with accommodations and meals; for more info call 860-567-3163.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers DEP BASIC BOATING SAFETY on Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 4-13 from 6:30-9 p.m. This 10-hour course is taught by volunteers of the Connecticut DEP Boating Division; it is designed to fulfill the requirements for the CT Safe Boating Certificate, and it also provides a diploma for the personal Watercraft Operator's Certificate. Cost is $15; for more info call 860-738-6446.
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, 229 East Litchfield Rd. in Litchfield offers a four-session course in CHI GONG with instructor Luisa de Castro on Wednesdays, June 5-26 from 6-7:30 p.m. This is an opportunity to explore your chi (life energy) with evenings of gentle Chi Gong movement, breathing and guided meditation to enhance the body/ mind connection and to build and maintain health. Luisa de Castro is a 20-year student of the Tao, T'ai Chi and Chi Gong and a practitioner of the healing arts. Cost is $40; pre-registration is required. For more info call the instructor at 860-567-8801.
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, 229 East Litchfield Rd. in Litchfield offers a Wisdom Colloquium on Thursday through Sunday, June 6-9. Explore the NEW STORY OF THE UNIVERSE and its implication for our lives with Gail Worcelo, CP, Janice Novotka, and Joyce Johnson Rouse. To register call Marilyn Lieber, DW at 757-498-4211.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers T'AI CHI CH'UAN with instructor Robert Gordon on Fridays, June 7-July 26. A beginners class in "Yang Style 60 Posture Short Form" meets from 7:30-8:30 p.m.; an intermediate-level class for students who have completed 16 weeks of the "Yang Style Short Form" meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. T'ai Chi promotes many healthy qualities including relief of stress and tension, improved posture and balance, enhanced circulation and improved coordination. Cost is $55; to register call 860-738-6446.
Washington Art Association in Washington Depot offers PAINTING, DRAWING AND PRINTMAKING WITH OIL PIGMENT STICKS, a workshop with Cynthia Winika on Saturday, June 8 from 1-5 p.m. Through demonstration, lecture and hands-on experience, participants will gain familiarity with the application and use of oil pigment sticks in painting, drawing and printmaking. Topics include appropriate support and grounds, mediums, compatibility with oils, and various application techniques. Cost is $70 members, $80 non-members, plus materials fee; to register call 860-868-2878.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers SAFE BOATING/ PWC CERTIFICATION on Saturday, June 15 from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. This 8-hour course is taught by professional, state-certified instructors and is designed for students age 12 and over; the course is approved by the State of CT and the NASBLA and recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. Upon successful completion, students will receive an official diploma and be qualified to obtain a CT Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation, qualifying them to operate recreational vessels up to 65' in length, including jet skis. Cost is $75; for more info call 860-738-6446.
Canton Clay Works, 150 Cherry Brook Rd. (Route 179 North) in Canton offers a one-day master workshop in NON-GLAZE FINISHES FOR CERAMIC SCULPTURES, VESSELS AND TILES with Barbara J. Allen on Saturday, June 22 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. This program is designed for artists, teachers and art students; enrollment is limited to 10. Finishes presented will include decorative handmade paper, inks, paints, washes, photographs, methyl cellulose and a variety of glues; faux finishes and texture will also be explored. Pre-made tiles will be available for purchase; many materials will be included, and students are encouraged to bring additional supplies to expand the creative options. Tuition is $95; to register call 860-693-1000.
Outdoors
Two Coyotes Wilderness School will hold a monthly LECTURE AND NATURE WALK series led by naturalist Scott Eldridge. This series will focus on providing a forum for people interested in increasing their knowledge of and connection to the outdoors and is free of charge to the public. The first lecture in the series will be held at Kent Memorial Library on Main St. in Kent on Friday, May 24 from 7:30-8:30 p.m.; the first walk will be held on Saturday, May 25 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Pond Mountain Natural Area. For more info call Two Coyotes at 860-927-4870.
White Memorial Conservation Center, off Route 202 in Litchfield sponsors a WETLANDS BIRD WALK led by David Rosgen on Saturday, May 25 at 9 a.m.; meet in the Museum. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-567-0857.
Sharon Audubon Center, Route 4 in Sharon offers MEMORIAL WEEKEND NATURE TOURS on Saturday, May 25 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. These general nature walks will include a visit to the pond, forest and aviaries at the Center. A great way to celebrate and enjoy the peacefulness of nature, these tours are free and open to the public; for more info call 860-364-0520.
Social Connections sponsors a SINGLES MEMORIAL WEEKEND PICNIC on Saturday, May 25 at 2 p.m. at a location in Sound View, Old Lyme. You can just hang out or walk on the beach. For the picnic, bring a salad, entrée or dessert to share. Admission is $15; for reservations call Gail at 860-582-8229.
Housatonic Audubon Society offers BIRD BANDING TRAINING on May 25-31 at Miles Wildlife Sanctuary. This intensive one-week training session led by instructors Laurie Fortin and Mike Dudek will be offered to individuals interested in hands-on mist-netting experience and/or information on how to run a M.A.P.S. station. For more info call Laurie Fortin at 860-364-5836.
Litchfield Hills Audubon Society sponsors its weekly SUNDAY MORNING BIRD WALK on Sunday, May 26 at 7:30 a.m. Fran Zygmont will lead the walk; meet in the parking lot at White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd. (off Route 202) in Litchfield. The walks encourage beginners and experts alike. The public is invited; for more info call 860-482-0819.
Litchfield Hills Audubon Society sponsors an EVENING NATURE WALK along the paved roads of Mohawk State Forest, Route 4 in Cornwall on Sunday, May 26; meet at 8 p.m. at the entrance to Black Spruce Bog, near the maintenance facility of the state forest. Dave Tripp will lead the walk; participants can expect to hear whippoorwills, owls and amphibians. The public is invited; for more info call Dave Tripp at 860-693-6524.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted presents a WEED WALK on Sunday, June 2 from 10 a.m.-noon. Herbalist Alison Birks leads this informative walk along the Henry Buck Trail in Peoples State Forest. Cost is $20; for more info call Continuing Ed at 860-738-6446.
Active Singles sponsors an ALL-AMERICAN GRAND OPENING BEACH PARTY on Sunday, June 9 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at Hop Brook Lake in Naugatuck. The party features all-American food, dance entertainment, a variety of sporting events, co-ed volleyball, softball, badminton, horseshoes and board games. There will be a cookout all day and seven hours of dancing with two DJs. Cost is $35, reservations required by May 31; group discounts are available. No children or dogs; for more info call Charlie at 860-489-9611.
Sports
The 24th annual Norfolk 5-Mile Road Race will be held on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27; registration begins at 10:30 a.m. at the ball field on Mountain Road off of Route 272 in the center of Norfolk. The race starts at noon on Westside Road and traverses south along a secondary paved and gravel road to Route 272, then north to the finish line at the fountain on the Village Green. There are seven divisions of female and male runners ranging from Juniors (12 and under) to Veterans (60 and over), with a separate division for Firefighters. Prizes will be awarded to the first three finishers in each division, as well as a prize for female and male finishers and a special prize for the eldest person to complete the race. Entrance fee is $8; proceeds from the race benefit the Chief William F. Kelly Memorial Scholarship Fund, which is awarded to two deserving students from Norfolk by the Norfolk Volunteer Fire Dept. Registration forms are available at the Norfolk Pharmacy, the Town Hall on Maple Ave., or on the day of the race.
Barkhamsted School holds its 5K RIVER RUN/ WALK on Saturday, June 22 at 9:30 a.m.; a Kids’ Fun Run starts at 10:30 a.m. There will be awards and raffles for the 5K run, and raffle prizes for the kids. Registration is $12 adults, $3 kids; for an entry form call 860-738-2890, or visit <www.plattsys.com>.
Northwestern Regional Middle/ High School, 100 Battistoni Dr. in Winsted offers FIELD HOCKEY CAMP for girls in grades 2-8 on Monday through Friday, June 24-28 from 9 a.m.-noon. The daily program includes stretching and warm-up, instruction and drills, a short break and small games (7 x 7). All athletes must bring shin guards, mouth guards and a water bottle; sticks and balls will be available for use during camp. An equipment package–including a field hockey stick, ball and mouth guard–can be ordered when applying; add $20 and indicate player's height. Fee is $80 in district, $95 out of district; application and fee are due by June 3 in order to insure delivery of the equipment package. For more info call the Student Activities Office at 860-738-6983.
Kids
Bushnell-Sage Library, Route 7 in Sheffield presents a book talk on "HELPER COW," written by Sue MacVeety and illustrated by Anne Douglas, on Saturday, May 25 from 10-11 a.m. Copies of the book will be available to be signed by the author and the illustrator. Come pat the Jersey calf! There will be free milk refreshments thanks to the Highlawn Farm. For more info call 413-229-7004.
Artwell, 19 Water St. in Torrington presents puppeteer JIM NAPOLITANO on Saturday, May 25 at 2 p.m. Jim will take the stage for an afternoon of delightful entertainment, featuring "Nappy's" shadow puppets. He will present "Father Goose Tails," a roller coaster ride of short stories, vignettes and songs. When Mother Goose takes a vacation, Father Goose takes over, with hilarious results. The ideas and stories that make up "Father Goose Tails" come from children's literature, traditional puppet theater and the imagination of the puppeteer. With more than 100 shadow figures, the show is fast-paced, action-packed and full of laughs. A native of Milford, CT and a graduate of UConn’s Puppet Arts Program, Jim’s shadow puppets have been featured on the award-winning PBS children’s program "Between the Lions." Admission is $10 adults, $5 children (12 and under); for more info call 860-482-2045, or 860-482-5122.
Harwinton Public Library, 80 Bentley Dr. in Harwinton presents author and illustrator MARC SIMONT on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. His book "The Stray Dog" won a Caldecott Honor Award in January 2002. Two of his drawings are currently on display in the children’s area of the library. School-ago children may best remember Mr. Simont for his drawings of the character "Nate the Great." School-age children and adults are invited to this special event! Sponsored by a grant from Civic Family Services. Registration is requested; for more info call 860-485-9113.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Collinsville invites teens and pre-teens to make "STYRO-HEADS" on Monday, June 10 at 3 p.m. What do you like to read about? Create a funky sculpture of your own head with collage materials. To register or more info, call 860-693-5800.
Torrington Historical Society, 192 Main St. in Torrington offers HISTORY CAMP 2002 on Monday through Friday, July 8-12. History Camp has been designed for children (ages 9-12) who are interested in learning about the people and events that make up Torrington's rich history. Each day's activities will take place from 9 a.m.-noon; beverages and snacks will be provided. Activities will include a walking tour of historic downtown Torrington, a presentation on Native American culture, and a visit from Civil War re-enactors representing the Union and the Confederacy. In addition, campers can combine a nature walk with an archaeological exploration of Burr Pond. Children will have the opportunity to engage in several hands-on activities ranging from Native American hunting techniques to taking historical photographs, and will also have the chance to assemble their own History Camp 2002 time capsule. Cost is $65 per child for member families, $75 for non-members; pre-registration is required. For more info call 860-482-8260.
Festivals and Sales
Agricultural Education Center at Northwestern Regional High School, 100 Battistini Dr. in Winsted sponsors a SPRING PLANT, TAG AND BAKE SALE on Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. There will be a large variety of tag sale items, plants, and baked goods. For more info call 860-379-9013.
Douglas Library, 108 Main St. in Canaan sponsors a BOOK, BAKE AND PLANT SALE on Saturday, May 25 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
M.E.O.W., Inc. of Litchfield, a nonprofit, non-destroy feline welfare organization, is accepting TAG SALE DONATIONS on Saturdays, May 25 and June 1 from 9 a.m.-noon at the Bethlehem Fairgrounds, Route 61 in Bethlehem. Most donations are welcome, except clothing and computer equipment; please, no junk. For more info call 860-567-0847, or 203-266-6390.
Farmington Historical Society holds a giant HOME AND GARDEN TAG SALE on Friday through Sunday, June 7-9 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Society’s Gridley-Case Cottages, 138 Main St. in Farmington. Donations for the sale may be dropped off at the Cottages on May 29 through June 5 from noon-5 p.m., or by appointment. Volunteers are needed to help price items and staff the sale; to volunteer or for more info, call 860-677-2754, or 860-677-5233.
Church of Christ Congregational, 5 Old Middle St. (Route 63) in Goshen (just south of the rotary) seeks donations for a TAG SALE to benefit the PF Youth Group and Mission Committee on Saturday, June 8 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The church will arrange pick-up of items in local areas. All proceeds go to the PF Youth Group for their projects this summer. For more info call 860-491-2793.
Trips
Blanche McCarthy Winsted Senior Center offers a day trip to the Bushnell Theatre in Hartford for a matinee performance of "AIDA" on Sunday, June 2. This is the contemporary pop musical by Elton John and Tim Rice based on the opera story. Cost is $63 for front balcony seats; there will be a stop for dinner (on own) on the way home. For more info call 860-379-4252.
Goshen Recreation Department (in association with Barbara's Friends) offers a day trip to the THIMBLE ISLANDS on Wednesday, June 5. The deluxe motor coach will leave Camp Cochipianee on Beach St. in West Goshen at 9:30 a.m. and return at 5:30 p.m. We're off to the shoreline town of Stony Creek for the 45-minute cruise aboard the Sea Mist to the Thimble Islands, which have been described as "a piece of the Maine coast that drifted into Long Island Sound and came to rest at Stony Creek." Twenty-three of the islands are inhabited, but throughout history they have been used as hideaways for pirates, drydocks to build ships for the Continental Navy, and Victorian playgrounds for the wealthy as well as humble pasture lands. Upon return to the mainland, luncheon will be served at Guilford's Stone House, and the afternoon will wrap up with time to stroll the Guilford Green and visit the Guilford Handcraft Center, where the gift shop features the work of 300 artisans. Cost is $56, including coach, lunch, cruise, sightseeing and driver's gratuity; non-residents are welcome to participate. For more info call Dale at 860-491-2249, or Barbara at 860-491-3230.
Blanche McCarthy Winsted Senior Center offers a trip to the MOHEGAN SUN CASINO on Thursday, June 6. Bus leaves Winsted Senior Center at 8 a.m., and from the commuter parking lot near Burger King on East Main St. in Torrington at 8:15 a.m. Bus leaves the casino at 4 p.m. for arrival at home by 6:30 p.m. For more info call 860-379-4252, or 860-379-8325.
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. (Route 202) in Litchfield offers a DAY TRIP TO BROOKLYN, NY on Thursday, June 27; bus leaves the Community Center at 7:15 a.m. and returns by approximately 7 p.m. Trip includes a tour of Brooklyn's famous botanical gardens and free time in the Brooklyn Museum of Art. Lunch is independent, at the museum or garden cafés. Cost is $40; registration deadline is June 10. For more info call 860-567-8302.
Blanche McCarthy Winsted Senior Center offers an ATLANTIC COASTAL EXPERIENCE on July 8-15. Cost of $1049 per person double, $1649 single, $1019 triple includes hotels and 13 meals, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick. For more info call 860-379-4252, or 860-379-8325.
Blanche McCarthy Winsted Senior Center offers a CANADIAN CAPER on August 1-4. Cost of $319 per person double, $299 triple, $289 quad includes three nights at the Hotel Memphere in Magog, Quebec, 8 meals, nightly entertainment, daily happy half hour, evening snacks, and trip to Montreal and casino. For more info call 860-379-4252, or 860-379-8325.
