This Is Connecticut

Two Free events on May 8: "Moms Rule Pamper Day" and "Meals for Moms"

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Tue, 04 May 2010 15:49:00 +0000

Two Free events on May 8: "Moms Rule Pamper Day" and "Meals for Moms"

Moms Rule! Pamper Day
Saturday, May 8, 11-2 pm. FREE!
Whole Foods Market, 50 Raymond Road, West Hartford

Moms: would you like to learn about nurturing food-based facials? Interested in a goodie bag with great items from our vendors? 100 goodie bags given to the first 100 Moms who to come to the Whole Body Department starting at 11 am. The day will include vendors, raffle prizes and two great talks:

11:00 – 12noon 'Women's Wellness and Anti-Aging' with Dr Mary Markow, ND

12:30 – 1:30pm 'Food Facials & Facial Rejuvenation' with Wendy L. Payton, LMT

Please register with Customer Service for these great classes by calling 860-523-8500.

Meals for Moms • Saturday, May 8, 12-2 pm. FREE!
Whole Foods Market, 50 Raymond Road, West Hartford

Calling all Dads and kids! Are you wondering what delightful treat to make for Mom for Mother's Day? Would you like some ideas? Help is on the way! Stop by on Saturday, May 8th and talk to all of our demo delegates during the tasting. They will be sampling great ideas of Mom-friendly items to make. It will be fun sampling together and getting those ideas flowing! What a great way to celebrate Moms by making a tasty treat for her. We look forward to seeing you!

Free Earth Day Activities at State Capitol on Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 15:06:00 +0000

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that a full slate of activities is planned at the State Capitol on April 22 to mark the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.

Governor Rell said the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), with the cooperation of several environmental organizations, has taken the lead in planning a full day of activities for Earth Day. These activities are free and open to the public.

DEP will provide complimentary Canaan Fir Seedling for the first 250 guests at Earth Day activities – a seedling suitable for planting in your yard.

Details of the activities are available at www.ct.gov/dep/earthday.

Ten Things To Do at the CT Science Center

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:12:00 +0000

Ten things to Do this April at the CT Science Center:

1. Exploration Camps:
April 19 - 20, 22 - 23: 8:30 AM – 4 PM
When school is out, SCIENCE is in! The Connecticut Science Center's day camps are designed for grades 1-8 and provide enhancing, hands-on ways to discover the exciting world of science. Click here.
Monday, April 19 – Discover the Ends of the Earth
Tuesday, April 20 – Earth Day-Keep it Clean!
Thursday, April 22 – Lost In Space
Friday, April 23 – Electricity, Magnetism and Beyond

2. See Ends of the Earth: From Polar Bears to Penguins before it melts away! OPEN until APRIL 25.
Explore this featured exhibit while you can. Massive landscapes, depicting the austere beauty of these frozen and extremely fragile expanses, provide striking backdrops for the more than thirty exhibits - each combining interactive artifacts and hands-on learning activities for all ages. Waddle and slide like a penguin, meet a polar bear face-to-face and more!

3. Encounter Dinosaurs in 3D: April 10-25
Come face-to-face with these monstrous historical creatures, who are back from extinction for school vacation weeks only in Dinosaurs Alive 3D! Watch the earliest dinosaurs of the Triassic Period to the giants of the Cretaceous. Ages 8 and up.

4. Celebrate Earth Week: April 18-24
Our LIVE SCIENCE program will focus all week on environmental activities throughout the exhibit galleries. Use a seismograph, try your hand in core sampling, explore alternative energy sources, test water samples, experience the crushing force of air, learn more about UV rays and more.

5. Take a GREEN walking tour: April 19-26
Explore and discover all of the environmental components that helped the Connecticut Science Center earn a GOLD LEED certification for our facilities with a self-guided building-wide walking tour during GREEN Week

6. Tour a hydrogen fuel cell bus: April 21
On April 21 from 1:30 - 3:30 PM, you can learn all about the clean energy-driven locally-engineered CT Transit Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus with, which will be located outside the Science Center on Columbus Boulevard. Also, learn how a hydrogen fuel cell powers the Science Center in the Energy City exhibit and see the real thing outside on Grove Street.

7. Get Fit by Clowning Around: April 24, 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM
Join Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey clowns as they use recycled items to help you get fit with Circusfit Gone Green.

8. Be on Television and Create Your own Weather Forecast.
Take advantage of the opportunity to be on LIVE television as you watch WFSB Meteorologist Mark Dixon's weather forecast LIVE from the Science Center. Plus create your own weather forecast and send it to your friends online. Visit the weather exhibit in the Planet Earth Gallery on the 6th floor of the Science Center.

9. Operate and Challenge a Robot.
Visit our FIRST Robotics exhibit and test your skills against a real robot. Learn about the exciting national competition and see one of the 2008 winning robots, from Hartford.

10. Visit Energy City
Calculate your carbon footprint, play "energy watt" pinball, and explore alternative sources of energy such as solar, wind, hydropower, fuel cells and more in Energy City.

Find out more at:
http://ctsciencecenter.org/things-to-do/calendar.aspx

Earth Day at Nature’s Temptations, April 24

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:09:00 +0000

Educate, support and participate in the effort to reduce your carbon footprint. Meet local, sustainable and organic vendors. Sample products, food and all-you-can-eat BBQ. Activities for the kids. Bring the whole family!

All-you-can-eat BBQ – pay one price with a portion of the proceeds to be donated to Chefs Collaborative!

Enter to Win a X5 35d for the weekend from BMW of Ridgefield!
Fun activities for the kids!
Tons of FREE product samples!
Enter to Win a FREE Stay at the Green Rocks Inn!

Saturday, April 24th 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

NATURE'S TEMPTATIONS
32 Prospect Street • Ridgefield, CT
203-438-5443
www.naturestemptations.com

Join the 2010 Travelers WALK MS, April 18

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:07:00 +0000

Bring your friends and neighbors to the UCONN Campus at 1800 Asylum Ave in West Hartford for the 2010 Travelers WALK MS, presented by St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center on Sunday April 18, 2010.

You can count on a positive, fun-filled walk day. Joining the Movement with thousands of Connecticut residents is an experience like no other! We walk together to make a powerful statement, and to keep moving forward toward a cure.

We walk to create a world FREE OF MS!

New to the West Hartford site:

A special Kids Zone will be available to all children after completion of the walk. Our Kids Zone will feature an activity sponsored by the Children's Museum of West Hartford, a bouncy house, popcorn machine and more! Make sure to collect an MS fact from each rest stop to gain entry in to the Kids Zone.

You will be able to view and print your team photos and other day of photos online after the walk. Don't forget to see our photographer and get your special promotional sticker!

Make sure to wear as much ORANGE as possible! We are encouraging everyone to show their spirit and sport the MS color. Don't forget about your dogs, too!

A special performance by Cromwell Martial Arts and Stage Left Dance Studio will take place following the walk. Be sure to catch the show!

Throughout the day there will be various appearances featuring Darren Kramer, the Hartford Wolf Pack mascot, Mayor Scott Slifka and many more!

Registration / check in begins at 8:00 am

Opening ceremonies will begin at approximately 8:45 am.

The walk will kick off at 9:00 am.

Lunch will be served beginning at 10:30 am.

Parking for all walkers will be in the student parking lot on Trout Brook Drive, across the street from the school.

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. It's generally diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50 but we have some cases reported in the teens. Symptoms can range from numbness in the limbs to paralysis or loss of vision. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms of MS in any one person can not yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatments are giving hope to those affected by the disease.

If you want donate to the cause but are unable to walk please contact The National MS Society, CT Chapter at 860.913.2550. Please let who ever answers that you want to donate to the cause in West Hartford.

In the years past West Hartford was the town to beat for donations, but in the last few years we have fallen a few notches and we want to be #1 again.

Each walker has the option to walk either a 5 mile or 2.5 mile route. Maps will be provided at the UCONN campus.

The five mile walk route will have a total of three rest stops for snacks and lavatories. Each rest stop will be 1 1/4 miles apart.

The 2 1/2 mile walk route will have one rest stop at 1 1/4 miles into the route.

Back at the UCONN campus for the finish, which is 1 1/4 miles from the last rest stop for either the short walk or the main walk, lunch will be provided for the walkers.

The 5 mile walk route starts at the UCONN campus at the corner of Lawler Road and Trout Brook Drive, to North Main, to rest stop #1 at the American School for the Deaf. Continue on North Main to Farmington Avenue then to LaSalle Road to rest stop #2 at Max Burger. From rest stop #2 to the Town Hall on South Main through Blue Back Square, down Raymond Road to Farmington Avenue, to Ardmore Road to Bretton Road to rest stop #3 at Morley School. Down Fern Street to Trout Brook Drive, and then back to the finish line at the UCONN campus.

The short walk is the same as the main walk up to rest stop #1 at the American School for the Deaf. Continue on North Main to Fern Street take a left onto fern down to Trout Brook Drive back to the finish line at the UCONN campus.

On the behalf of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter and the individuals we serve, THANK YOU, for your support of our mission to end the devastating effects of MS.

US Men's National Team Send-Off Match at Rentschler Field

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:11:00 +0000

Fw: First U.S. Men's National Team Send-Off Match to Take Place at Rentschler Field May 25 against Czech Republic

Tickets Go On Sale March 11 At ussoccer.com

CHICAGO (March 3, 2010) — The U.S. Men's National Team will face the Czech Republic on May 25 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Conn., in the first of two Send-Off Series matches before heading to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Kickoff at Rentschler Field is set for 8 p.m. ET and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN and Galavision.

Four days later, the U.S. will face Turkey at 2 p.m. ET on May 29 at Lincoln Financial Field. More than 20,000 tickets have already been sold for the match in Philadelphia, which will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and Galavision. Fans can also follow the Send-Off Series live on ussoccer.com's MatchTracker and at twitter.com/ussoccer.

Tickets for the match at Rentschler Field start at $25 and go on sale to the public Thursday, March 11, at 10 a.m. ET through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout Connecticut. Tickets may also be purchased starting Friday, March 12, at the XL Center ticket office in downtown Hartford (open Monday-Friday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.). The ticket office at Rentschler Field is only open on the day of the event. Groups of 20 or more can obtain an order form at ussoccer.com or call 312-528-1290. Ultimate Fan Tickets (special VIP packages which include a premium ticket, a custom made official U.S. national team jersey with name and number, VIP access to the field before and after the game, and other unique benefits) are also available exclusively through ussoccer.com.

As a sponsor of U.S. Soccer, Visa® is pleased to offer all Visa cardholders access to an advance ticket sale for this match before the sale to the general public. This advance sale starts Wednesday, March 10, at 10 a.m. ET and runs until Thursday, March 11, at 8 a.m. at ussoccer.com. Visa will be the only payment method accepted through the Visa presale and is the preferred card of U.S. Soccer. Terms and conditions apply.

Tickets for the May 29 match in Philadelphia start at $25 and are available through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000, at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout the Delaware Valley (including Macy's, FYE and Boscov's), and the Lincoln Financial Field ticket office (open Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Groups of 20 or more can obtain an order form at ussoccer.com or call 312-528-1290. Ultimate Fan Tickets (special VIP packages which include a premium ticket, a custom made official U.S. national team jersey with name and number, VIP access to the field before and after the game, and other unique benefits) are also available exclusively through ussoccer.com.

"The international spotlight will be shining brightly on the State of Connecticut in May as we become part of soccer's world stage and host one of the U.S. Men's National Team's final send-off games before they compete in the FIFA World Cup," said Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell. "Not only is this a great opportunity for soccer players and fans of all ages in Connecticut to watch some of the sport's best compete at Rentschler Field, but from the state's standpoint it provides numerous game day jobs and a good boost to our local economy at a critical time."

The last U.S. visit to Rentschler Field was also part of a Send-Off Series, with the U.S. defeating Latvia 1-0 on May 28, 2006, before heading to Germany for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Prior to that match, the U.S. defeated Trinidad & Tobago 1-0 with a goal from Brian McBride on Aug. 17, 2005, in the final round of 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying. The two games drew an average of more than 25,000 fans.

"We are very excited about returning to Hartford," said U.S. head coach Bob Bradley, who guided the U.S. to a first-place finish through 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying. "The national team has enjoyed a history of success there, and the team has always appreciated the fantastic support from the fans. We are looking forward to an incredible atmosphere as we prepare to compete at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa."

The USA has faced the Czech Republic or its predecessor, Czechoslovakia, on two occasions, both coming in World Cups. Four years ago the U.S. fell 3-0 to the Czechs, then ranked No. 2 in the world, in Gelsenkirchen to open the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany before bouncing back five days later to draw 1-1 with eventual World Champions Italy. Czechoslovakia handed a young U.S. team a 5-1 loss on June 10, 1990, in Italy in the Americans first match in a World Cup in 40 years.

Up next, the U.S. will face the Netherlands today (March 3) at 2:30 p.m. ET live on ESPN2 and Galavision. Fans can follow the action from the Amsterdam ArenA live via ussoccer.com's MatchTracker and at twitter.com/ussoccer.

Following the Send-Off Series, the U.S. will travel to South Africa to prepare for its first game of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The USA opens the tournament on June 12 against England in Rustenburg, before continuing Group C action against Slovenia in Johannesburg on June 18. The U.S. rounds out group play against Algeria on June 23 in Tshwane/Pretoria.

Sugarloaf Crafts Festival in Hartford

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:01:00 +0000

More than 200 artists will display and sell their unique creations in functional and decorative pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, home décor, furniture, items for the garden, and photography. The Festival also features demonstrations, live music, entertainment for kids and gourmet foods.

Admission: $7 online, $8 at the door. Kids under 12 admitted free. Admission good for all 3 days.

Friday, March 26 – Sunday, March 28, 2010

Connecticut Expo Center
265 Reverend Moody Overpass
Hartford, CT

http://sugarloafcrafts.com/festivals/hartford/spring/

Gov. Rell Announces Design Competition for CT Vets' Memorial

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:50:00 +0000

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the design competition for Connecticut’s first statewide memorial to honor all state veterans will open for submissions starting today with a deadline for entries slated for Wednesday, April 14, 2010, at 3:00 p.m.

The state veterans’ memorial will be located on a grassy meadow adjacent to the Col. Raymond F. Gates State Veterans Cemetery, which is across from the State Veterans Home on West Street in Rocky Hill. The Connecticut State Veterans Memorial design competition is open to Connecticut residents, artists, architects, landscape architects and resident/non-resident students who are enrolled in Connecticut institutions of higher learning.

All entry rules, instructions and site photos are available at http://www.cthonorsvets.org/ or by e-mailing president@cthonorsvets.org.

Connecticut's 375th Anniversary

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 17:07:00 +0000

Joined by schoolchildren, Boys and Girls Scouts, lawmakers and municipal officials, Governor M. Jodi Rell led a procession from the State Capitol to the State Library yesterday to officially kick off the Connecticut's 375^th Anniversary Celebration.

Historians point to 1635 as the critical year for settlement of the three river towns – Wethersfield, Windsor and Hartford – that initially established the Connecticut Colony.

The event, which also featured a ceremonial escort by the Governor's Foot Guard, also marked the unveiling of the official 375^th Web site – www.CT375.com – which will include a calendar of events and activities that will include local schools, state parks, the arts community, museums and oral histories.

Yankees' World Series Trophy Coming to State Capitol Friday

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:27:00 +0000

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that baseball fans of all ages – particularly those with a passion for pinstripes – will have an incredible opportunity on Friday, February 19 to see the New York Yankees World Series trophy when it makes a stop at the State Capitol.

The trophy will be on display in the State Capitol building from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The public is invited to take photographs with the trophy and visit with members of the Yankees' front office. The trophy will arrive at the Governor's office at 11 a.m. where the Governor will meet briefly with team representatives. The trophy then will be displayed to the public beginning at 11:30 a.m. in State Capitol Rotunda on the first floor of the building. Doors will open at 11 a.m. and lines will begin forming for access to the trophy at 10:15 a.m. The trophy will depart sharply at 2 p.m. and Capitol Police are recommending that all visitors be in line by 1:30 p.m.

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.asp?A=3872&Q=455744 .

Fund Setup for Middletown families

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:01:00 +0000

A fund is has been set up to aid the families of the five people killed in Sunday's power plant explosion in Middletown.

A statement from the office of Mayor Sebastian Giuliano said a fund will be set up at MiddConn Federal Credit Union.

Donations can be made to:

Families of Kleen Energy Tragedy
c/o MiddConn Federal Credit Union
213 Court Street
Middletown, CT 06457

Donations can be sent directly to the credit union or through the mayor's office.

As reported by WTNH News. www.wtnh.com

MLK Community Day at the Wadsworth Atheneum

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:17:00 +0000

Picture Your Dreams

Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Day at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art

Join the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and Amistad Center for Art & Culture in celebration of Martin Luther King Day, on Monday, January 18, with free admission from 10 am until 5 pm. Spend the day participating in family-friendly art activities, watching live performances, or simply enjoying a free day at the museum.

The day's theme, "Picture Your Dreams," is reminiscent of Dr. King's famous 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech and prompts visitors to reexamine their own dreams. Activities focused on dreams include a hands-on quilt activity with artist Donald Boudreaux, drawing with artist Jeremiah Patterson, postcard collages with artist Stanwyck Cromwell, and the distribution of dream journals. More family fun will be available with a Storybook Time.

Docent-led tours of the exhibition Digging Deeper and Winslow Homer's The Nooning will provide visitors with an in depth exploration of these fascinating works.

Visitors can also enjoy a live performance by Lift Every Voice and Sing (LEVAS) Community Gospel Choir and the Voices of Glory from the Sanctuary of Faith & Glory, or listen to The Amistad Center for Art and Culture's Teen Advisory Group's "Dream Playlist" in Morgan Great Hall.

In association with the Community Health Services' Community Threads initiative, the Wadsworth will also show the film The Quilts of Gee's Bend at 3:00 pm. This 28-minute documentary takes place in the Gee's Bend quilt makers' homes and is told through the women's voices. This music-filled film takes viewers inside the art and fascinating living history of a uniquely American community art form.

Boxed lunches will be available in the museum café, and a complementary snack will be offered later in the afternoon.

The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is located at 600 Main St. in Hartford , Connecticut . The Museum is open Wednesdays to Fridays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Please visit www.wadsworthatheneum.org for more information.

Governor Rell Urges Support of Red Cross Relief Efforts in Haiti

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:31:00 +0000

Governor M. Jodi Rell has issued the following statement regarding the earthquake in Haiti:

"The loss of human life and scope of the damage is staggering. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Haiti and their families here in Connecticut and across U.S. I urge anyone who wants to help to contact the American Red Cross to support its relief efforts."

For more information: http://www.redcross.org/

Driving Safely in Winter Weather

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 17:02:00 +0000

As snow, sleet and below-freezing temperatures continue into this week, the Old Saybrook Fire Department (OSFD) reminds all motorists to be prepared as they travel local roads and highways.

One of the best ways to be ready as temperatures go below freezing is to ensure that your car is winterized and in top operating condition. Keep the gas tank full and check the windshield wiper blades (top off windshield washer fluid), tires and all lights to make sure they are in working order.

Clean snow & ice from all car windows, hood and roof before starting to drive, (state law). A snow brush, ice scraper and gloves are a wise investment.

Visibility is not only a good safety idea but also state law. Clean snow from headlamps, brake and taillights (remember to use your headlights with wipers, again state law)

Travel on main routes. The most traveled roadways are usually cleared and sanded first. A short-cut down a back road might not save any time if the road hasn't been plowed. Also, if help is required, main roads are usually the best patrolled.

Always assume road conditions are worse than they are and allow additional travel time. Drive cautiously and courteously.

Motorists should always check the latest local forecasts (at home, tune to your local TV News and Weather Channel, and in the car to radio stations that provide regular weather bulletins and reports on road conditions before starting a journey).

During a snow, sleet or freezing rain event, reducing speed and expanding distances between vehicles is an absolute necessity for safe driving.

Most important, slow down and keep a much greater distance from the vehicle in front of you.

Always carry a fully-charged cell phone to use in case of an emergency. A cell phone is a vital component of any winter safety kit, along with a warm blanket, extra clothes, shovel, flares and first aid kit. Also, non-perishable food such as canned nuts, dried fruit and hard candy and a box of tissues should be kept on hand. Drivers and their passengers should dress for outdoor conditions in layers.

"We strongly recommend that motorists stay prepared as they take to the highways this winter. As the temperatures stay below freezing, it is more important than ever that all drivers plan for every trip they make – whether a 10-minute drive to the mall or a 60-mile drive to visit a relative," says Max Sabrin, Fire Policeman / OSFD.

If you should become stranded in your vehicle in winter weather, stay with your vehicle and do not try to walk to safety. Call 911 from your cell phone for help. Run the motor for about 10 minutes each hour for heat. Open a window slightly for fresh air and make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.

From Old Saybrook Fire Department.

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 17:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year everyone! Thank you for continuing to visit ThisIsCT.net Have a safe and prosperous 2010!

All the best,

Linzi

First Night Celebrations in Connecticut 2009-2010!

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Ring in the new year with First Night celebrations around Connecticut.

First Night Danbury & 5K
There will be music, dancing, and children’s entertainment with fireworks on the Green at 8:00 PM.
Downtown, Danbury, CT 06810
December 31, 2009 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Admission: $5.
Phone: (203) 792-1711
http://www.citycenterdanbury.com/

First Night Westport Weston/Westport
First Night WW is an alcohol-free Celebration of New Year's Eve through the Arts. Not only can you enjoy 9 hours of unequaled entertainment, you can enjoy the safe surroundings of beautiful downtown Westport while you walk in the town's holiday atmosphere. Or you can also choose to ride the free shuttle buses between the venues.
Admission: $10
Button Sales Locations: Available online.
http://www.firstnightww.com/

First Night Hartford 2009
It is Hartford's premier New Year's Eve party, a multicultural, artistically unique, alcohol-free New Year's experience with countless professional musicians, artists, performance groups and exhibits that inspire thousands of people of all ages to attend each year. It’s also an affordable way for everyone to ring in the New Year. This is the 21st year for First Night Hartford, so be sure to come and join the fun and keep the tradition going!
$10 adults, $2 youth (15 years and under)
Button Sales Locations: Online
http://www.firstnighthartford.org/

HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR 2009!!

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 15:04:00 +0000

Merry Christmas everyone! Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Thank you for your support in 2009.

All the best,
Linzi
www.ThisIsCT.net

FOODSHARE Holiday Ornament

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 21:32:00 +0000

This cardstock ornament can be sent as a gift to your chosen recipients and will feature your personal message of concern, support and goodwill to all. Proceeds will benefit Foodshare, fighting to end hunger in Greater Hartford. A suggested donation of $20 can provide enough food to feed one hungry person for 20 days!

Show your appreciation for colleagues, clients, family and friends by making one simple donation, in their honor, expressing your support for alleviating hunger and helping area families in need.

NO SHOPPING
NO MALLS
NO CATALOGS
NO DIFFICULT CHOICES

It’s that simple...we’ll do the rest. Your gift will assist in feeding families throughout Greater Hartford whose joy and laughter during the holiday season is stilled by the silence of poverty. Hang this ornament during the holiday season to remind all those who see it that together we can put an end to hunger.

To order, go to http://www.foodshare.org/

Cultural Connecticut: The Sculpture Mile

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:00:00 +0000

By Frederick H. Hockla,

Ormond Beach, Florida

In my travels around costal Connecticut from the mouth of the Connecticut River heading west I discovered two very interesting and nationally significant Sculpture exhibitions that I think the traveling public would enjoy. They are going on in both Ivoryton and Madison, CT. The sculptures can be viewed by walking or driving, but I recommend walking.

The one in Ivoryton is called the “Sculpture Mile Ivoryton” and is located on Main St. Ivoryton which is easy to get to from Exit 3 off Route 9 and just a mile West of the Essex Steam Train. The works become visible on both sides of the street traveling west toward Ivoryton center where the Ivoryton Playhouse is located.

The other exhibition is called the “Sculpture Mile Madison” and is located at the Stop & Shop Plaza , in Madison Center, easy to get to from Exit 61 off I95 in Madison CT and also along the Boston Post Road.

These exhibitions are in place for the next 24 months and best of all FREE. They are sponsored by the Hollycroft Foundation whose goal among other things is to place living art by famous Sculptors outdoors along the pathways and highways for all to see and enjoy. Their website is http://www.hollycroft.org/ they have free escorted walking tours in Madison CT. every Saturday at 11am from May through November that begin at the Stop & Shop Plaza . The tour guide provides a little history on each piece with background information on the artist who created it.

Free full color catalogues are available at all local merchants and public libraries, which includes a walking map, a photo of each piece and a brief biography of each contributing artist.

I have enjoyed this trip through Connecticut so much I had to share it with you, attached are several photos of the works on display. This area truly is Cultural Connecticut.

CT Troops "Home for the Holidays"

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 18:54:00 +0000

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that "Operation Home for the Holidays" – her effort to raise $200,000 to help about 700 Connecticut National Guard troops home from their training bases in Indiana and Wisconsin during the Christmas and New Year's holidays – has not only met but exceeded its goal.

The troops will be deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq in early January. As of Friday, cash and pledges raised for Operation Home for the Holidays totals $253,157.51. The funds will be used to provide bus transportation for two large Connecticut units – the 1st Battalion of the 102nd Infantry Regiment and the 250th Engineering Company – to travel to and from mobilization stations in Indiana and Wisconsin , respectively, to Connecticut during a 10-day holiday break in their training.

The remaining funds will be used to provide other kinds of support to these soldiers and others who are already deployed.

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.asp?A=3675&Q=452162 .

Christmas Carol at The Hartford Stage

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:20:00 +0000

12th anniversary of A Christmas Carol, Connecticut's favorite holiday tradition kicks off tonight!

Ghosts soar over the audience and snow falls on Victorian London in a classic Christmas tale sure to delight every member of your family. The Hartford Courant declares it “The most sought-after holiday experience going.”

TICKETS: $43 - $71

SCHEDULE:
Thursday, December 3, at 7:30 pm
Friday, December 04, at 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 05, at 2:00 pm
Saturday, December 05, at 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 06, at 2:00 pm
Tuesday, December 08, at 7:30 pm
Wednesday, December 09, at 7:30 pm
Friday, December 11, at 7:30 pm
Saturday, December December 092:00 pm
Saturday, December December 097:30 pm
Sunday, December 13, at 2:00 pm
Tuesday, December 15, at 7:30 pm
Wednesday, December 16, at 7:30 pm
Friday, December 18, at 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 19, at 2:00 pm
Saturday, December 19, at 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 20, at 2:00 pm
Sunday, December 20, at 7:30 pm
Tuesday, December 22, at 7:30 pm
Wednesday, December 23, at 7:30 pm
Thursday, December 24, at 2:00 pm
Saturday, December 26, at 2:00 pm
Saturday, December 26, at 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 27, at 2:00 pm
Sunday, December 27, at 7:30 pm
Mon December 28, at 2:00 pm
Tuesday, December 29, at 2:00 pm
Tuesday, December 29, at 7:30 pm
Wednesday, December 30, at 2:00 pm
Wednesday, December 30, at 7:30 pm

Hartford Stage, 50 Church St., Hartford, CT
Box office: 860-527-5151 860-527-5151
http://www.hartfordstage.org/

Connecticut Heroes Tree Lighting at The Kate

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:54:00 +0000

Old Saybrook is the official first and only site in CT for the "Heroes Tree"

State and local dignitaries, along with local veterans, will gather Friday, Dec. 4, at 5:15pm for the lighting of the town and State's first official “Heroes Tree” at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center at 300 Main Street.

The public is invited to the special 5:15 pm tree lighting. Those gathered around the tree will pay tribute to the deceased, the injured and currently-active members of our armed forces from Connecticut.

The "Heroes Tree" is adorned with Gold Stars for the deceased, Silver Stars for those injured, and Blue Stars for those serving this country from Connecticut. It was decorated by the WWII, Korean and Vietnam Veterans, their families and the members of the Old Saybrook community especially the children of Anita Mosher's middle school Art class who made the beautifully decorated paper stars!

During the tree-lighting ceremony in the Katharine Hepburn center, the names of the deceased will be read by Old Saybrook Firefighter Don Lucas, and Pastor Michael Calo from the Shoreline Church will offer an invocation.

The concept behind the "Heroes Tree" comes from artist and Gold Star Mother Kathryn Cross. Ms. Cross is the President of the Department of Connecticut, American Gold Star Mother Volunteers, an 81-year-old organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. The "Heroes Tree" is designed to raise awareness toward those who gave their lives or were injured defending this country, and to honor the continuing sacrifices being made during this holiday season by the men and women in our armed forces.

The Katharine Hepburn center was chosen as the site of the "Heroes Tree" so the display could be easily visible to those passing by on Main Street during this holiday season.

Old Saybrook Fire Department
http://www.oldsaybrookfire.com/

The Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center
http://www.katherinehepburntheater.org/

Classic Christmas Tunes

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:35:00 +0000

By Bill Strong

For years I have been known as the one in the family who sings Christmas songs when I am tired. Doesn't matter the season, I just do it. Some of you may have been subjected to this and in the spirit of the season, let me say that I am sorry.

Anyway, since I have this wide experience with Christmas and Christmas music, who better is there to offer these three Christmas CD reviews for your listening pleasure?

Again, you're welcome.

First off, let's talk about Tony Bennett's "A Swingin' Christmas", which came out last year.

Let me preface this by stating the Tony Bennett is, to me, the smoothest man on the face of the Earth. If he says that sleigh bells are ringing, trust me, I am listening.

That's why you simply cannot go wrong with "A Swingin' Christmas". The man recorded eleven versions of traditional holiday favorites with Count Basie's Band. Count Basie's Band. I didn't even know they were still around. It's a Christmas miracle!

Favorite cuts on this CD are: "I'll Be Home for Christmas", "Winter Wonderland", and "O Christmas Tree". This CD became an instant classic in my family (with incredibly diverse musical tastes) and if you're looking for something more traditional, Tony Bennett's "A Swingin' Christmas" is for you.

Now I know what you're thinking: you're hanging your stockings with care but you need something with a little more rock 'n roll, preferably with the guy who played guitar in the Stray Cats. I hear you. I feel you. And I highly recommend Brian Setzer's "Boogie Woogie Christmas".

My wife and I went to see Brian Setzer and his orchestra's Christmas concert last year and while the set list wasn't as Christmas-y as we'd have hoped--he played covers and Stray Cats songs--the man can seriously play rockabilly guitar. It was just tremendous. On this CD, Setzer's version of Elvis' "Santa Claus Is Back In Town" and "Jingle Bells" are sure to make you get up and dance--especially if you've been spending some quality time with the egg nog. Ho ho ho indeed.

But with Brian Setzer, his version of "The Nutcracker Suite" is what gets you into the tent and makes you feel like you just shouldn't leave. The original "Suite" is an exercise in being super-quiet (triangles!) but with the power of his orchestra behind him, Brian finds a way to make it rock.

Last and in no way the least, you know that nobody goes wrong with "A Charlie Brown Christmas".

I'm pushing 40 and I still watch the show every year. Why? Because it still makes you feel good about life--no small feat in these hyper-cynical times. If somebody doesn't have fond memories of "A Charlie Brown Christmas", then you really need to stay away from them because they are The Grinch--and not the creepy live-action Jim Carrey kind!

Where do you start with CD? I still get chills the first time I hear the children sing "Christmas Time Is Here". "Für Elise" is a great song too and that segues into "The Christmas Song". That's the "chestnuts roasting on an open fire" tune that was made famous by Nat King Cole. In fact, Vince Guaraldi's verson on this CD is probably the only rival verson worth as much as Nat King Cole's rendition.

Plus, let's face it, The Vince Guaraldi Trio makes listening to "Greensleeves" worth the effort...and that isn't exactly anything I would be prone to do under normal conditions.

If visions of Snoopy playing hockey on Woodstock's birdbath aren't enough to make you feel all warm inside like a big cup of hot cocoa, then I am sorry, but you leave me no choice. I give you People's Exhibit A: "Linus and Lucy"--which I do believe that the Smithsonian has deemed to be The Greatest Song of All-Time. (Don't check the facts because I didn't. Accept it as fact. It just is.)

Think about it: is it possible to be mad/upset/sad/angry when you hear the familiar first bars of Schroeder's piano kick in? If you had a terrible day at work and co-workers (who are not me) are driving you crazy or the kids are running around I DARE YOU to put on "Linus and Lucy" and you just try to remain upset. I'm tellin' you, you're gonna find that you just can't do it. Simply cannot be done. I will not argue on this. You'll be thanking me later for this new coping mechanism.

"Linus and Lucy" is like a great sweater. You don't want to wear it all the time--you just need to pull that sweater/song out when it matters and you need to feel good. Well, the holiday is when it matters. Play this song and get it in gear!

I know we said "three" but I'd be remiss if I didn't add an honorable mention.

Do you like surf guitar? Do you like a band of dudes wearing Mexican wrestling masks? My answer to both is: who doesn't?!?

That's why on the ninth day, Los Straitjackets were born! Go out and getcha a copy of "'Tis The Season for Los Straitjackets" and let the dueling guitars of Eddie Angel and Danny Amis fill you full of instrumental Christmas cheer. "'Tis The Season" kicks off with a rousing "Here Comes Santa Claus" that sounds great at the beach or in the dead of winter. Top songs on this CD are: "A Marshmallow World", "Jingle Bell Rock", and "Frosty the Snowman". "'Tis The Season" also features some Stritjacket originals that are sure to become Christmas favorites for you and the other hep cats you know.

So there you go, the holiday season has a flavor for everyone: Smooth, Rock 'n' Roll and Classic. How do you take yours? Feel free to leave some of your Christmas favorites in the comment section and let us know what you think of our selections.

Sustainable Holidays with Trudy Dujardin

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Award-Winning Eco-Designer Trudy Dujardin Visits Discovery Museum on December 13.

Enjoy seasonal refreshments and chat with award wining, eco-designer, Trudy Dujardin, ASID, LEED AP ,who created the museum’s exquisite holiday tree, decorating it with artisan crafted, seed-embedded paper ornaments and LED lights. Tree on display Nov. 22 – Jan. 3, 2010.

Sunday, December 13, 2009, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

The Discovery Museum and Planetarium, 4450 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604. One mile south of Merritt Parkway (Rte. 15) Exit 47.

Included in general admission. $8.50 Adults; $7 children 5 and over, seniors, students with I.D.’s

Phone: (203) 372-3521 x115 or http://www.discoverymuseum.org/

Ghost Hunters Visit The Mark Twain House

noreply@blogger.com (LGS) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:41:00 +0000

Is The Mark Twain House Haunted? That's the question on the lips of many visitors to the 19th century Victorian on Farmington Avenue in Hartford.

Over the years there have been numerous reports by both visitors and staff of strange experiences in the house. Experiences varying from a feeling of being watched, hearing whispers and giggles when there is no one else in the room, hearing the sound of billiard balls knock against each other, the sound of footsteps in an empty room, the reek of cigar smoke and people even seeing misty full-bodied apparitions. There were so many reports that they started to catalog them for evidence.

"One of the reports included a tour guide who was giving a tour and talking about Mark Twain's daughter that had died and someone in the hall shushed him." - Jacques Lamarre

With so many reports of paranormal activity, it was time to call in the experts.

The Mark Twain House's Manager of Communications & Special Projects Jacques Lamarre got in touch with The Atlantic Paranormal Society, known as TAPS, a Rhode Island based organization with an excellent reputation for cutting through the claims of supposed haunted activity to get the facts.

Jason Hawes, 37 and Grant Wilson, 35, the co-founders of TAPS, and stars of the reality show Ghost Hunters on Syfy visited the Twain House in September to investigate the claims of paranormal activity. They brought with them their team of investigators including Amy Bruni, Kris Williams, Dustin Pari and Britt Griffith. The team stayed two-nights for the investigation, and a third day for research.

During the overnight investigations the TAPS teams used recording equipment in the hope of catching electronic voice phenomena or EVPs, infrared and thermal imaging cameras, to catch what the naked-eye cannot see, a K2 meter and EMF detectors to find fluctuations of electromagnetic energy.

This was not the first investigation for a paranormal group in the house. Earlier this year a team of researchers from the Smoking Gun Research Agency also investigated. Even the famed Ed and Lorraine Warren have had walk-throughs, and felt the presence of a spirit. Some believe that the house is haunted by Mark Twain's daughter Suzie who died of spinal meningitis as a child, and is the only person to have died in the house.

Set your DVRs Ghost Hunters at the Mark Twain House airs Wednesday, December 2nd at 9pm on SyFy.

Watch a Preview

Premiere Party

The Mark Twain House will have a premiere event at the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford on December 2nd which will feature local paranormal research group the Smoking Gun Research Agency who will discuss the science behind the search for the unexplained. There is a suggested donation of $10.00 for the event, which will help to support the activities of the Mark Twain House. http://www.ctsciencecenter.org/visit/

Ghost Lecture

Noted Ghost Hunters Dustin Pari from "Ghost Hunters International" and John Zaffis the so-called "Grandfather of Paranormal" will be hosting a lecture at the Mark Twain House on December 16th at 6pm. Tickets are $50 available at: http://www.idealeventmanage.com/twainlecture.html

Related Links:

The Atlantic Paranormal Society
http://www.the-atlantic-paranormal-society.com/

Ghost Hunters on SyFy
http://www.the-atlantic-paranormal-society.com/

The Mark Twain House
http://www.www.marktwainhouse.org/