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Entertainment DirectorySeptember 20, 2002 

Music and Dance

Laurel City Singers invite new members to rehearsal and NEW MEMBER SIGN-UP on Thursday, September 19 from 7-9 p.m. at the First Church of Winsted, 95 Park Place (on the Green) in Winsted. Laurel City Singers are a non-auditioned, volunteer choir; membership requirements are a good sense of humor, an intense love of music and the ability to carry a tune. Director Adam Atkins is preparing the group for its upcoming program, "Musical Places and Memories," which features such classic songs as "La Bamba," "Stand By Me," and "Shenandoah." For more info call Debbie Storrs (evenings) at 860-482-3491.

Sandisfield Arts Center, Hammertown Rd. (off Route 57) in Sandisfield presents a program of AMERICAN OPERETTA with Broadway music director Jack Lee and a quartet of singers on Saturday, September 21 at 8 p.m. Mr. Lee will offer insights into the style, performance practice and resonance of this repertoire. Jack Lee’s distinguished career includes collaboration with many of Broadway’s biggest stars, guest conducting roles with major symphony orchestras, film work and travel abroad to teach the musical theater techniques and style that are uniquely American; he was the subject of an Emmy-winning PBS documentary. Tickets are $15; for reservations or more info, call 413-258-3309.

The Artists Collective, 1200 Albany Ave. (corner of Woodland St.) in Hartford presents a CELEBRATION OF CARIBBEAN MUSIC featuring David "Happy" Williams and Jouvert on Saturday, September 21 at 8 p.m. A native of Trinidad, bassist David Williams is highly regarded as a jazz artist; in recent years he has been drawn back to the musical legacy bequeathed to him by his father, John Buddy Williams, and he has begun to explore calypso and to compose works for Trinidad’s steel drum bands at carnival time. Jouvert (pronounced Ju-vay) features Ron Reid on bass, Frankie McIntosh on keyboards, Buddy Williams on drums, Vincent Herring on horns and Orthello Molineux on steel pans. Admission is free, but seating is limited and reservations are recommended; for more info call 860-527-3205.

Nutmeg Square and Round Dance Club holds a SQUARE DANCE FUN NIGHT on Tuesday, September 24 at Judson School, Hamilton Lane in Watertown. Lessons are offered for people who have never square danced before or for dancers who might have danced a number of years ago. Learning the basic steps is easy. The dancing is held in a smoke-free and alcohol-free environment. Free; for more info call Mary at 860-283-9943, or Rich and Ellen at 860-274-6876.

Litchfield County Barbershop Chorus (Norwestones) hold a WEEKLY REHEARSAL on Thursday, September 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the school rooms at the Litchfield Congregational Church. The Chorus, which has been in Litchfield County for 36 years, is looking for men who like to sing; high school and college students are welcome. Come and join us on any Thursday and get hooked on the sound of four-part harmony. For more info call Al at 860-482-5413.

Litchfield County Board of Realtors sponsors a 1940s RADIO CAVALCADE on Saturday, September 28 at the Cornucopia Banquet Hall, 371 Pinewoods Rd. in Torrington. Hors d’oeuvres begin at 6 p.m., with dinner at 7 p.m.; dancing begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50; all proceeds benefit the Torrington Area Soup Kitchen and Friendly Hands Food Bank. For more info call 860-482-9816.

 

Drama and Comedy

Artwell Gallery, 19 Water St. in Torrington presents SISTER WINDY on Saturday, September 21 at 8 p.m. Our Lady of Perpetual Mirth, Sister Windy, talks about saints, art and other acts of creation. Artwell’s own good sister never fails to bring the healing powers of laughter to her growing congregations of fans. Warning to those with no sense of humor: this product contains NUT. Suggested donation is $10; all proceeds will benefit the Artwell Gallery. Heavenly refreshments and bingo with door prizes will add to the fun. For more info call 860-482-5122.

TheatreWorks, 233 Pearl St. in Hartford presents "SPINNING INTO BUTTER" through October 6; show times are Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Set in a small college campus in Vermont, "Spinning Into Butter" examines the dangers of both racism and political correctness in America today. When one of the few African-American students at liberal Belmont College begins receiving hate mail, the campus erupts, first with shock, then with mutual recrimination as faculty and students alike try to prove their own tolerance by condemning one another. Tickets are $25 except Friday and Saturday evenings, which are $35; center section reserved seats are $10 extra. For more info call 860-527-7838.

Hartford Stage Company, 50 Church St. in Hartford presents Shakespeare’s romantic comedy "MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING" through October 6 with performances on Tuesdays through Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7:30 p.m.; there will also be matinees on selected weekdays at 2 p.m. and selected weekends at 2:30 p.m. This is one of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays, with its war of wits between confirmed bachelor Benedick and the sharp-tongued Beatrice. Subplots add contrast and conflict, and there are mistaken identities, a devious plot, and–after all the "ado"–a happy ending. Mark Lamos directs, and Dan Snook and Tony Award-winner Karen Ziemba star. Tickets are $22-$60; for more info call 860-527-5151.

Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston presents the musical "PIPPIN" from September 21 through October 6; performances are at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays. Whimsical, rollicking and even philosophical, this musical follows Pippin, the son of Emperor Charlemagne, on a circuitous quest for true happiness and fulfillment. Add soaring musical numbers and creative choreography, and the result is a unique and memorable show. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door; for reservations call 860-283-6250.

Shakespeare & Company, 70 Kemble St. in Lenox presents Nathaniel Hawthorne's "THE SCARLET LETTER" through November 3, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. On Saturday, September 14, an opening night champagne and dessert reception will follow the performance. Hawthorne's classic tale of a woman at odds with Puritan Massachusetts in the mid-1600s is presented in a new adaptation by Carol Gilligan, eminent professor of psychology and gender studies and best-selling author. Tickets are $10-$45, $30-$50 for Opening Night performance and reception; for more info call 413-637-3353, or visit <www.shakespeare.org>.

New Britain Repertory Theatre seeks a NARRATOR for its live stage version of "The Rocky Horror Show," which runs from October 17 through November 2. For more info call 860-978-2461.

 

Art Exhibits

Chesterwood, 4 Williamsville Rd. (off Route 183) in Stockbridge inaugurates its new Resource Room in the renovated Barn Gallery with an exhibition of selected works by contemporary artist DANNY O. Daniel Curtain O’Connor (Danny O) is an acclaimed artist who works in a variety of media: 3-M Brand Scotch tape, old newspapers, torn magazine pages, even deflated basketballs. Combining artistic vision, technical mastery and an instinct for finding beauty in small details, Danny O creates art that captivates, delights and inspires. The exhibit will also feature drawings and collages depicting Chesterwood and statuary by Daniel Chester French. Chesterwood was the summer home and studio of French (1850-1931), sculptor of the Lincoln Memorial and the Concord Minute Man. An opening reception for Friends of Chesterwood will be held on Friday, September 20 from 5-7 p.m.; to join the Friends call 413-298-3579, ext 215. Chesterwood is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through October 31; for more info call 413-298-3579.

Creamery Gallery at Canton Clay Works, 150 Cherry Brook Rd. (Route 179) in Canton displays NEW WORK BY LOCAL ARTISTS through October 6. The gallery will showcase Sharon Hunter-Porges’ latest functional high-fire stoneware plates, mugs and bowls. The unique, carved-relief, Raku-fired vases and covered jars of Jennie Lou Drysdale will be on display. Tim Scull, owner of Canton Clay Works, will feature his new pit-fired, Saggar-fired, and wood/ salt-fired ceramic vessels. Wood-turned functional bowls and art pieces by Richard Ivany of Avon will be presented, as well as a never-seen-before watercolor by Carla Niehaus. Also to be shown are Raku-fired pieces and platters by Lisa Zaccheo, and one-of-a-kind pit-fired covered jars by Kathy Cady. For more info call 860-693-1000.

Harwinton Public Library, 80 Bentley Dr. in Harwinton presents the paintings of PAT PISCOPO through October. The exhibit may be seen during regular library hours; for more info call 860-485-9113.

 

Lectures and Presentations

Sheffield Historical Society, 159-161 Main St. in Sheffield presents an exhibition of 19TH CENTURY FARMING TECHNOLOGY at the Old Stone Store through October 27. The exhibit was made possible through the efforts of two prominent local residents, Milton Barnum and Tony Carlotto, who have collected an impressive quantity of tools and equipment demonstrating a wide variety of approaches to planting and harvesting agricultural products. Combined with materials from the Society’s Mark Dewey Research Center and other donors, this exhibition provides a memorable walk back in time and allows the viewer to discover the agricultural practices once found in the fields of Berkshire County. The public is invited to a special reception in honor of the donors on Friday, September 20 at 6 p.m. For more info call 413-229-2694.

Canton Historical Museum, 11 Front St. in Collinsville holds an OPEN HOUSE on Sam Collins Day, Saturday, September 21 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The museum is housed in one of the buildings built by Sam Collins and it is here that you can learn all about him and the history of the Collins Company. The building was the Collins Company plow shop, and there are three floors filled with memorabilia of bygone days, including a railroad diorama. The Canton Camera Club will be on hand with a collection of interesting photos. There will be a tent outside selling hot dogs and soda. There will be no admission charge and no guided tours, but guides will be stationed throughout the museum to answer your questions. For more info call 860-693-2793.

Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, 229 East Litchfield Rd. in Litchfield hosts a public reading by Connecticut's Poet Laureate, MARILYN NELSON on Saturday, September 21 at 7 p.m. Ms. Nelson's most recently published book is "Carver: A Life in Poems." She is the winner of countless awards and fellowships and a Professor of English at the University of Connecticut. Admission is $10; advance registration is requested. For more info call 860-567-3163.

Tunxis Community College, Routes 6 & 177 in Farmington presents BOOK BANNING AND ITS INTELLECTUAL CONTEXT on Tuesday, September 24 at 1 p.m. in the Tunxis Library. The community is invited to this talk on censorship, banning, and the First Amendment by Dr. Christopher Collier, previous Connecticut historian and author of numerous fiction and non-fiction books. Collier’s book "My Brother Sam Is Dead," published in 1974, is one of the most censored books every year; the book was a Newbery Honor Book in 1975, designated a Notable Book by the American Library Association, and nominated for a National Book Award. His book "Roger Sherman’s Connecticut" was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. This event is part of the activities planned to celebrate Banned Books Week; for more info call 860-679-9596.

Oliver Wolcott Library, 160 South St. in Litchfield presents author ALMA ROBERTS GIORDAN on Tuesday, September 24 at 4 p.m. Giordan is author of "What This Old Hand Knows, a touching and poignant collection of previously published writings. Some of Giordan’s poems and essays have appeared in Good Housekeeping, the Saturday Evening Post, the Christian Science Monitor, the Ladies Home Journal, as well as local newspapers. The Catholic Digest review noted that the book, "… glows with warmth and humor and sparkles with sharp observations of the places and people in the author’s long life." Free and open to the public; registration is not required. For more info call 860-567-8030.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation hosts a public forum on UNDERSTANDING THE 2002 FEDERAL FARM BILL on Wednesday, September 25 from 3-5 p.m. at Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield. Nonprofit organizations involved in agriculture and farmers will learn about the opportunities that the Farm Bill presents for New England agriculture. Cecil Currin, State Conservationist will the Natural Resources Conservation Service, will moderate the session; he will speak about the variety of conservation programs and cost-share dollars that will be available to farmers in 2003. Dick Burke of Rural Development will explain Value Added Development Grants for farmers and Resource Innovation Centers for agriculture groups. Arthur Williams from Farm Service Agency will present information about the Dairy Program and other FSA programs. Space is limited; to register call 413-528-8039.

Beardsley & Memorial Library, 40 Munro Pl. in Winsted presents a GENEALOGY PROGRAM on Wednesday, September 25 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Nancy J. Doane, Director of Godfrey Memorial Library in Middletown, will give an introductory session on how to begin your family history; hand-outs will be given to attendees to take home and work on. Ms. Doane, who has been involved in genealogy for ten years, will also introduce the Godfrey Memorial Library and give a descriptive tour of the facility. For more info call 860-379-6043.

Torrington Public Library, 12 Daycoeton Place in Torrington presents author JERRY LABRIOLA reading and signing his new book "Murders at Brent Institute" on Wednesday, September 25 at 7 p.m. Dr. Labriola is an Assistant Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, a well-known figure in Connecticut politics, and a critically acclaimed mystery writer now at work on his fifth novel. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-489-6684.

 

Classes and Workshops

Beardsley & Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place in Winsted presents a JEWELRY MAKING program for ages 10 and up on Saturday, September 21 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Susan Dean Thebarge of Torrington will lead this "fun" class during which those in attendance will learn how to make their own bracelet. Registration is required; materials will be supplied. For more info call 860-379-6043.

Harwinton Public Library, 80 Bentley Dr. in Harwinton offers SCRAPBOOKING FOR ADULTS on Monday, September 23 at 7 p.m. Participants should bring scrapbook and materials. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-485-9113.

Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. in Simsbury offers DOING BUSINESS IN CONNECTICUT on Tuesday, September 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Hugh Curley, Manager of SBA’s Hartford Business Information Center, will discuss the state’s licensing and registration requirements as well as how to find support to navigate the processes. Free and open to the public; to register call Jennifer Keohane at 860-658-7663, ext 107.

Goshen Recreation sponsors a 4-week course in SELF-DEFENSE FOR WOMEN with Sharon Cataldo-Maloney starting on Tuesday, September 24 from 7-8:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at the Goshen Center School, Route 63 in Goshen. Each class will have discussion time on personal safety issues, methods to increase awareness of your surroundings at home and in other common areas, teaching and practical application of basic self-defense techniques, as well as a period for specific questions and concerns. Fee is $50; to register call 860-491-2249.

Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted hosts a SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP on Wednesday, September 25 from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in Greenwoods Hall, Room GW306. Topics include the advantages and limitations of various types of business organizations, rights and responsibilities regarding record keeping, business deductions and federal filing requirements, employment taxes, self-employment issues and the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System. Guest speakers from state and federal agencies such as the Department of Revenue Services, Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Labor may participate. The workshop is free and all materials are provided free, including forms, IRS publications and Small Business Resource Guide CD-ROMs. Advance registration is required; for more info call the Internal Revenue Service at 860-756-4466.

Berkshire Botanical Garden, Routes 102 & 183 in Stockbridge presents a GARDEN WRAP-UP lecture and demonstration on Wednesday, September 25 from 1-3 p.m. This hand-on workshop will cover techniques for preparing a garden for the winter, including soil amending, mulching, cutting back, fall division of perennials and simple seed saving. Instructor Elisabeth Cary has over 20 years of gardening experience; she specializes in perennial and vegetable gardening. Cost is $15 members, $20 non-members; advance registration is required. For more info call 413-298-3926.

Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Collinsville offers a special program on HOLIDAY PARTY PLANNING with Linda Ernst on Wednesday, September 25 at 7 p.m. This stress-free evening of party planning will help make the holiday season fun and easy. You’ll take home several "plans" which will include menus, grocery lists and timetables for preparing food, as well as decorating tips. You’ll even get to sample some of the delicious treats! Linda, who lives in Simsbury, runs her own party planning and preparation business. Free, but pre-registration is requested; for more info call 860-693-5800.

Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers CREATING CERAMIC TILES, a five-week course meeting on Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. beginning September 26. Instructor Jim Brunelle will teach participants to transform raw clay into handmade tiles using creativity and a variety of techniques, creating unique tiles that can are suitable for home decorating. Fee is $120 plus a $20 materials fee (per 25-pound bag of clay); registration requested by September 19. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.

Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted presents MORE THAN A SNAPSHOT, a 5-week course in basic photography beginning on Thursday, September 26 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Designed for both beginning and more experienced photographers, this course covers basic operation of the 35 mm camera, lenses, filters, depth of field, shutter speeds, tripods, basic photo theory and composition. Cost is $99; for more info call 860-738-6446.

Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers GRANT WRITING AND BEYOND, a grant-writing workshop on Friday, September 27 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in Great Woods Hall, Room 224. Donna M. Gold and Alexandria Sergio of the Clemow Consulting Group will take participants through the basic steps of grant writing and program development, and will present and discuss issues that are unique in rural health. This interactive workshop will also include specific approaches in applying for health care grants. Each participant is asked to bring a proposal concept for a grant. There is no fee for attending this workshop, and lunch will be included; participants are urged to pre-register. For more info call Mary Winar of the Connecticut Office of Rural Health at 738-6378.

Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers an INTRODUCTION TO PERSONAL COMPUTERS on Saturdays, September 28 through October 19 from 2-5 p.m. This hands-on course is for novice computer users. Students will focus on working effectively in a Windows XP environment. Topics include: what a computer is and what it can do; understanding ads for a computer system purchase; disk and file management; and an introduction to the major types of software programs. Internet and e-mail will also be covered. Tuition is $15; to register call 860-738-6446.

Canton Clay Works, 150 Cherry Brook Rd. (Route 179) in Canton offers classes and workshops in CERAMIC ARTS beginning September 30. Several beginner classes for youths and adults are available and teach the basics of wheel throwing, glazing and Japanese Raku-firing techniques. Advanced and intermediate classes are also available for those already involved in ceramics. Sculpture for beginning to advanced students teaches expressing your vision in clay, with several firing techniques available. Classes for homeschool students (ages 5-12) are also available. For more info or to request a brochure, call 860-693-1000.

Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers MIXED MEDIA COLLAGE, a 5-week course meeting on Tuesdays from 1:30-4:30 p.m. or from 6:30-9:30 p.m. beginning October 1. Instructor Debi Penell will help participants take "accidental" ingredients (wrapping paper, pictures, ribbons etc.) and mix them with "intentional" ingredients (painted papers, drawing objects, etc.) to create unique collage works. Fee is $180 plus a $5 materials fee; registration requested by September 24. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.

Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers an INTRODUCTION TO REFLEXOLOGY on Wednesday, October 2 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. This is an introductory course to the Ingham Method of Reflexology or Zone Therapy, which is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to various parts of the body. When stimulated these reflexes can contribute, in a natural way, to overall good health. Students will be introduced to basic thumb walk and two relaxation techniques. A half-hour demonstration of reflexology will be included. Cost is $45; to register call the Centre for Holistic Studies at 860-738-6446.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation offers "GETTING THE BOARD ON BOARD: Roles and Responsibilities" on Thursday, October 3 from 9 a.m.-noon at the Hudson Opera House in Hudson, NY. Presented in conjunction with the Council of Community Services of New York State, this workshop will focus on the knowledge and skills needed to develop and maintain a well-run board. Learn how to maximize board members' valuable resources–time, skills, knowledge, credibility and influence. Presenter Doug Sauer, Executive Director of the Council of Community Services of New York State, is a recognized leader in the nonprofit sector. Cost is $30; to register call 800-969-2823.

Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted SPROUTING AN HERBAL BUSINESS on Wednesday, October 9 from 7-9 p.m. Herbalist and business owner Rosemari Roast will share her experiences and offer ideas and hints to help you avoid the potholes down the road to setting up a business. Assessment of your goals, choosing a unique product, start-up capital, regulations, pricing, customer service and advertising are topics to e discussed to stimulate your ideas. Cost is $25; to register call the Centre for Holistic Studies at 860-738-6446.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation offers "PLANNED GIVING: Survival Insurance for Nonprofits" on Thursday, October 10 from 9 a.m.-noon at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge. Learn the essentials of the best, easiest and most sure way to grow an organization's endowment–planned giving. Various types of planned giving including bequests, charitable remainder trusts, and charitable gift annuities will be discussed. Presenter is Carter White, Vice President for Administration and Finance of Berkshire Taconic. Cost is $10; to register call 800-969-2823.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation offers TRANSITIONS IN LEADERSHIP on Fridays, October 11 and November 8 from 9 a.m.-noon at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge. This two-part roundtable participatory exchange is for leaders of nonprofits who are guiding their organizations into a different leadership structure. Issues may include the re-distribution of power and authority, dealing with a transition in specific leaders or a shift of focus within the organization's leadership. The second session will provide the opportunity for participants to put to work the ideas from the first session and receive further consultation and support. Discussion moderator is Geoff Nader, an independent advisor who specializes in guiding for-profit and nonprofit organizations' leaders in strategic planning and management work. Cost is $60 per person, $100 for teams of two; to register call 800-969-2823.

 

Outdoors

Housatonic Audubon Society offers HITCHHIKING THE GALAXY on Friday, September 20 at 7:30 p.m. at Sharon Audubon Center, Route 4 in Sharon. Naturalist Joseph Markow will provide an overview of topics in astronomy, including the origins of constellations, a tour of the solar system, and the use of stars in navigation by humans and birds. The presentation will begin indoors with slides and props, followed by an outdoor viewing of stars, satellites and the moon. The indoor portion of the program will run rain or shine. If you plan to attend, call Joseph at 860-364-0520.

White Memorial Conservation Center, off Route 202 in Litchfield presents MORE PHOTOGRAPHY AT LITTLE POND BOARDWALK on Saturday, September 21; meet in the Museum parking lot at 8 a.m. Join Bob Crispino for another opportunity to take pictures at the boardwalk. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-567-0857.

Farmington River Watershed Association sponsors the 15th annual FARMINGTON RIVER CLEANUP on Saturday, September 21 from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The Cleanup is designed as a community event to get people and groups of all ages involved in helping to clean up litter along the banks of the Farmington River and its tributaries. Several cleanup meeting sites are being planned up and down the river, including Avon, Barkhamsted, Burlington, Granby, Unionville, Simsbury, Tariffville and Windsor. Garbage bags and gloves will be provided, and a free cookout will be held from noon-2 p.m. for all volunteers at the Lions Club Happy Hill in Unionville. For more info call FRWA at 860-658-4442.

Social Connections sponsors a SINGLES CORN MAZE WALK on Saturday, September 21 at 5 p.m. at the Corn Maze, Chamberlain Rd. in Middletown. We’ll stroll through winding paths all interwoven into a living, growing, four-acre cornfield. You’ll look for the answers to 30 questions in this three-dimensional, interactive maze. Admission is $15; for reservations call Marcia at 860-828-4817.

Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton offers a FAMILY WALK on Sunday, September 22 from 2-3:30 p.m. This walk through the fields of Werner’s Woods is geared for all ages, and will focus on the late summer habits of butterflies, dragonflies and other insects. Cost is $2 members, $4 non-members; half price for children (under 14). Pre-registration is not required; for more info call 860-693-0263.

Housatonic Audubon Society offers a HIKE TO BEAR MOUNTAIN on Saturday, September 28 from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. DEP biologist Judy Wilson will lead this invigorating intermediate level hike with scenic views of the Northwest Corner and the Berkshires. Participants should bring a lunch, sturdy hiking boots and water. Meet at the trailhead to Bear Mountain on Route 41 in Salisbury (3.3 miles north of Route 44, on the left) by 10 a.m., or at the Sharon Audubon Center at 9 a.m. Reservations are required; for more info call 860-364-0520.

Housatonic Audubon Society offers an adult education program on GEOLOGY AND THE HISTORY OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER on Saturday, September 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Sharon Audubon Center, Route 4 in Sharon. Participants will hike trails at Sharon Audubon Center that demonstrate 1 billion years of geologic history in the Northwest Corner, including glacial history and evidence of continents colliding, and will hike up rock ledges overlooking Connecticut and New York. The group will discuss how geology has affected the land use and natural history of the area. Using clues from the landscape, participants will identify forests that used to be pastures, old farms, and evidence of the iron industry in the area. Bring a bag lunch and water. Cost is $35, registration is required; for more info call 860-364-0520.

Litchfield Hills Audubon Society will sponsor a booth at the FAMILY NATURE DAY at White Memorial Conservation Center, Route 202 in Litchfield on Saturday, September 28 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. There will be nature-related items on display, such as animals and plants. As in previous years, Irma the Burmese python will also be on display. There will be hand-out materials and posters for sale. If any Society members are interested in volunteering at the booth, call Ann Orsillo at 860-491-3618, or Patti McCurdy at 860-482-2692.

Farmington River Watershed Association holds a canoe trip, THE ARCHEOLOGY OF THE FARMINGTON RIVER on Sunday, September 29; participants will meet at Curtis Park in Simsbury at 1 p.m. for the 2-3 hour trip. Professor Ken Feder of Central CT State University and author of the Farmington Valley Archeological Study is trip leader. He will offer a fascinating exploration of the people and culture that inhabited the Farmington River Valley thousands of years ago. All ages and levels of canoeing experience are welcome. Cost is $10-$30, depending on the need for a canoe and FRWA membership status; register early as space is limited. For more info call Regina Mahony at 860-658-4442, or visit <www.frwa.org>.

 

Sports

Charter CommunityVision 13 provides videotape replays of GILBERT YELLOWJACKET FOOTBALL vs. Stafford on Friday, September 20 at 9 p.m. Gilbert’s game vs. Coventry will be shown on Sunday, September 22 at 8 p.m.; Tuesday, September 24 at 1 p.m.; and Friday; September 27 at 9 p.m. For more info call Charter at 860-738-5090.

Harwinton Recreation offers DROP-IN ADULT BASKETBALL on Mondays from 7:30-9:30 p.m. through December 16 in the gymnasium at Harwinton Consolidated School. (The program does not meet if school is not in session.) Cost is $20 per year for residents, $25 for non-residents. Registration is required; forms are available at Town Hall, or call 485-0626.

Harwinton Recreation offers DROP-IN ADULT VOLLEYBALL on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. through December 12 in the gymnasium at Harwinton Consolidated School. (The program does not meet if school is not in session.) Cost is $5 per year for residents, $10 for non-residents. Registration is required; forms are available at Town Hall, or call 485-0626.

Canine Sports Center, 416 Old Middle St. (Route 63, south of the rotary) in Goshen hosts the 2nd annual MILES CONQUER MYELOMA 5K RUN/ WALK on Saturday, September 28 starting at 9 a.m.; registration begins at 7 a.m. The 5K Run/ Walk is an out and back, USATF certified and sanctioned course with a water stop at the turnaround. The course has moderate hills and flat sections; dogs and strollers are welcome. Race day registration is $15; T-shirts guaranteed for the first 125 entrants. All proceeds will benefit the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation; entry fee will be waived for those who collect $100 or more for the MMRF. For more info call Nancy Wadhams at 860-491-2731, or Andree Stone at 404-816-0835.

 

Kids

Friends of Brodie Park and New Hartford PTO sponsor BIG WHEELS AT BRODIE on Sunday, September 22 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Brodie Park in New Hartford. A variety of private companies and town organizations are bringing their biggest trucks and heavy equipment for kids to enjoy. Kids can see and explore a cherry picker, monster truck, garbage truck and other various construction vehicles with big wheels. Cotton candy, popcorn, cookies, photos and much more will be available. Admission is $3 per child, adults admitted free; all proceeds will benefit the Playscape Fund of the Friends of Brodie Park, LLC. For more info call Allison Bannerman at 860-738-4158.

Kent Memorial Library, 32 North Main St. in Kent offers a READ-ALOUD program for ages 2-5 on Tuesday, September 24 at 10:30 a.m. Hear a story about dragons and take home a copy of the book. For more info call 860-927-3761.

Norfolk Library, Route 44 in Norfolk presents photographer and illusionist WALTER WICK on Wednesday, September 25 at 3:20 p.m. Wick, a resident of Colebrook, is internationally known for his "I Spy" children’s book series. Mr. Wick will give an informal talk and multi-media slide show of how he achieves the magical effects in his photographs. Following the program Wick will sign copies of his latest book, "Can You See What I See? Picture Puzzles to Search and Solve." Children are encouraged to bring their "I Spy" books from home to be autographed. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-542-5075.

Kent Memorial Library, 32 North Main St. in Kent shows CHILDREN’S MOVIES on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. For a listing of movies that will be shown, call 860-927-3761.

Kent Memorial Library, 32 North Main St. in Kent offers SAND CASTLES IN THE AFTERNOON for ages 6 and older on Thursday, September 26 at 3:30 p.m. Dream of knights in armor and dragons, and then come to the library and create your dream castle in the sand and bring it home. To reserve your castle, call 860-927-3761.

Torrington Library, 12 Daycoeton Place in Torrington holds FALL STORY TIME for children (ages 3-6) beginning October 3 and running through December 14. Five groups are offered: for ages 3-4 on Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays from 10:30-11 a.m., and for ages 5-6 on Thursdays or Fridays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Advance registration is required, and spaces are limited; to register call Abigail at 860-489-6684.

 

Festivals and Sales

Friends of the Granby Public Library hold their annual FALL BOOK SALE on Friday through Sunday, September 20-22. There will be an Early Bird Sale on Friday from 7-9 p.m., the General Sale on Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and Last Chance Sale on Sunday from noon-2 p.m. For more info call 860-653-8955.

Winsted United Methodist Church, 630 Main St. in Winsted sponsors its annual HARVEST FAIR AND LUNCHEON on Saturday, September 21 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The event will feature baked goods, crafts, linens, jewelry, stuffed animals, books, white elephant items, a children’s table and gift shop.

Kellogg School, Main St. in Falls Village hosts the 3rd annual ANTIQUES APPRAISAL to benefit the D.M. Hunt Library in Falls Village on Saturday, September 21 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Written appraisals will be provided by renowned experts in areas of glass, porcelain, pottery, photography, painting, books, jewelry, furniture, rugs, toys, posters, silver, pewter, brass, clocks and more. Cost is $10 for the first item and $5 for each additional item; for more info call 860-824-5209.

Canton Public Library holds its FANTASTIC BOOK SALE on Saturday, September 21 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Funnybone Interactive, 166 Albany Turnpike (Route 44) in Canton; a preview sale will be held from 8-9:30 a.m. Books of all kinds, including antique books, first editions, coffee table books and selected brand new books will be for sale, as well as a selection of videos, tapes and CDs. This event is part of the Sam Collins Day celebration and is within walking distance of the main Sam Collins Day site on Canton Springs Rd. Free and open to the public; admission to the preview sale is $5.

SAM COLLINS DAY will be celebrated on Saturday, September 21 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., rain or shine at the Canton Volunteer Fire Dept. field on Canton Springs Rd. and in downtown Collinsville; free shuttle buses will run between the two sites. This 8th annual hometown fall celebration will feature "Made in Canton," a Fantasy Bedroom Art Auction, food court, exhibits, children’s activities including pony rides, and much more. Free admission and free parking; for more info call 860-693-7841.

Shared Vision holds a WOMEN’S HEALTH FAIR: "Celebrating Body, Mind and Spirit" on Saturday, September 21 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. (Route 202) in Litchfield. Explore a wide and colorful array of resources to promote wellness and a healthy, satisfying life for women from their teen years on. More than 30 presentations and participatory workshops are scheduled and a score of informational booths will be open all day, with local nonprofit organizations, holistic health practitioners and other groups. Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and bring a picnic and drums; come early to sign up for space-limited programs. Bag lunches will be for sale, and there will be a non-supervised children’s play area. Free admission; for more info call 860-567-9610, or 860-567-4748.

Butternut Basin, Route 23 in Great Barrington hosts NORA’S DAY on Saturday, September 21 from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Berkshire County businesses, individuals, craftsmen and performers are massing their efforts to produce a day-long breast cancer prevention and treatment benefit. Dedicated by her friends to the memory of Annora Leffingwell Stanton, a 48-year-old mother of three who lost her battle with breast cancer two years ago, Nora’s Day will feature food, family entertainment, a raffle and performances by local musicians, bands, and performers. The event will culminate with a candlelight vigil in loving memory of Annora, other victims, survivors and their families who struggle with the effects of this devastating disease. Advance sale tickets are $15 at Domaney’s Liquors, The Music Store, and Michele’s Hair Salon; tickets the day of the event are $20. For more info call 413-229-2280.

D.M. Hunt Library, Main St. in Falls Village hosts a SILENT AUCTION AND COCKTAIL PARTY on Saturday, September 21 from 5-7 p.m. Admission is $25 per person and $40 per couple in advance; $30 per person and $45 per couple at the door. Proceeds will benefit the library; for reservations call 860-824-5507. To donate items for the auction, call 860-824-0568.

Beacon Grange, 670 Northfield Rd. (Route 254) in Northfield presents the BEACON GRANGE FAIR on Sunday, September 22 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. There will be judging of preserves, baking, crafts, fruits and vegetables, a tag sale, and a luncheon. For more info call 860-482-1962.

Collinsville Volunteer Fire Dept. sponsors a CRAFT AND FLEA MARKET on Sunday, September 22 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., rain or shine at Memorial Field on Powder Mill Rd. (off Route 202) in Canton. Featured will be folk art, Avon products, Christmas and holiday items, dolls, wood crafts, tin signs and more. If you are hunting for a bargain, there will be several tag sale and flea market vendors. Food will be served all day, including breakfast items, hot dogs, hamburgers, clam chowder, chili and beverages. Proceeds will benefit the Collinsville Volunteer Fire Dept. and Canton Memorial Ambulance; for more info call Paige at 860-482-3892.

M.E.O.W., Inc. holds its FALL TAG SALE on Saturday, October 12 and donations are needed! Items may be dropped off at the Bethlehem Fairgrounds on Route 61 in Bethlehem on Saturdays, September 21, September 28 and October 5 from 9 a.m.-noon. No clothing or computers, please. For more info call 860-482-7755, or 860-567-4209.

Cherrybrook Healthcare Center, 102 Dyer Ave. in Canton holds its FALL FESTIVAL on Saturday, November 2. Vendor fee is $20 for an 8-foot spot; for more info call 860-693-7777.

 

Trips

Litchfield Parks and Recreation offers a trip to Radio City Music Hall for the CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR on Saturday, November 23; bus leaves Litchfield High School at 7 a.m. for the 2 p.m. show. Cost is $70; to register call 860-567-7569.

 

And More

New Hartford Historical Society opens its first major exhibition, "THE WORK OF TWO CENTURIES: Economic Life of New Hartford" on Saturday, September 21 from 5-8 p.m. with a cocktail and jazz reception at its headquarters. As with many towns throughout New England, the character of New Hartford was very much influenced by its businesses and industries. This exhibit chronicles two centuries of New Hartford’s growth and development using pictures, narratives and artifacts. Special guided tours of the exhibition will be available outside of the Society’s regular hours. On the day of the opening, Steve Ellis, an expert on Chapin-Stephen planes, and Walter Landgraf, an expert on Litchfield County’s charcoal industry, will be available to talk with guests.

Winsted Fire Department hosts the 1st annual SAFETY AWARENESS DAY on Sunday, September 22 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Tiffany-Gaylord Field, Rowley St. in Winsted. Some 40 representatives of fire and police departments, ambulance services and other safety and health-related organizations from Waterbury to Winsted will give demonstrations and hand out educational materials and samples to promote safety and prevention in our homes, cars, neighborhoods and community. There will be blood pressure checks, fingerprinting, and raffles of home safety items. All ages are welcome, and refreshments will be available. Admission is free, as are all special programs; this event will be cancelled in case of rain. For more info call Sarah at 860-485-4361.

Mattatuck Museum, 144 West Main St. in Waterbury hosts a celebration of the traditional JEWISH HARVEST FESTIVAL, Succot, on Thursday, September 26 from 8-10 p.m. Students from the Yeshiva Gedolah will build a succah, or hut, in the courtyard of the museum, and children from the B’nai Israel Synagogue will help to decorate it while the origins, symbolism and reasons for this observance and celebration of the Torah are explained. Admission is free, but advance reservation is requested; for more info call 203-753-0381, ext 10.