This Is Connecticut

Iwo Jima Memorial Rememberance February 23rd at National Iwo Jima Memorial Park

2011-02-21T15:15:00.001-05:00

American servicemen landed on the shore of Iwo Jima Island 66 years ago today. On the 5th day of battle, February 23, 1945, the flag was raised on Mt. Suribachi. You may recognize this important historical event from the Joe Rosenthal photo taken of the 5 Marines and 1 Navy Corpsman who raised the flag.

In remembrance of the 66th anniversary of the flag raising on Mt. Suribachi, Foundation member Mark Adamski and other members will be on hand at the Memorial Park on February 23rd between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Mark, who is a WWII historian and reenactor will be dressed in the uniform worn by Marines during the invasion. He will have memorabilia, photos and mementos from the battle on display and will be available for questions. There will be brief ceremony to place a wreath at the monument to honor those who fought and died during the battle. Everyone is welcome.

Please stop by the National Iwo Jima Memorial Park located at the intersection of Barbour Rd. and Ella Grasso Boulevard or exit 29 off Route 9.

Support Our Survivors of Iwo Jima
www.sosiwojima.com

Free Dental Care for Underserved Kids Offered in New Britain on Feb. 4

2011-01-25T12:38:00.001-05:00

FREE DENTAL SERVICES TO BE OFFERED TO CHILDREN

ON "GIVE KIDS A SMILE DAY" ON FEBRUARY 4
Services to be offered to children with HUSKY or no dental insurance at
Community Health Center of New Britain, New Britain High School and private dental offices

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (January 25, 2011) – Each year, an estimated one in five, or 17 million, American children goes without dental care. To increase access to oral health services, the Community Health Center of New Britain, in partnership with the New Britain Dental Society and New Britain Oral Health Collaborative, will participate in the American Dental Association's annual Give Kids A Smile program on February 4. From 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. the center will offer free cleanings, exams, sealants, fillings, fluoride treatments and dental education to children with HUSKY insurance or no dental insurance.

Free services will also be provided at New Britain High School, the VNA Oval Hill Clinic and in private dental offices throughout New Britain and the surrounding area. A complete list of Give Kids a Smile participants can be found in the News & Events section of chc1.com.

Each year on the first Friday in February, thousands of the nation's dentists and their dental team members provide free oral health care services to underserved children across the country as part of the Give Kids A Smile® program. Give Kids A Smile activities also highlight for policy makers the ongoing challenges that low-income families face in finding dental care.

For more information or to schedule a dental appointment, contact Charise DiPierro, program manager for CHC's mobile dental and community wellness programs, at (860) 852-0853 or Charise@chc1.com.

WHAT: Give Kids a Smile day, featuring free cleanings, oral exams, sealants, fillings, fluoride treatments and dental education for underserved children

WHEN: Friday, February 4 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE: Community Health Center of New Britain, 85 Lafayette St., New Britain, CT, 06051

COST: Free

To Honor UConn Women's Hoops Team Tuesday, Hartford Buildings Turning Blue

2010-12-21T12:13:00.001-05:00

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the skies over Hartford will shine with blue and white Husky pride on Tuesday, December 21 as the UConn women's basketball team attempts to set the college basketball record for consecutive wins at 89. The two-time defending national champions can break the record Tuesday night with a win over Florida State at the XL Center.

Governor Rell said downtown buildings Hartford 21 and Aetna will display blue and white lights in honor of the record-setting attempt and she is encouraging other businesses in the state to do the same. Governor Rell said she is also urging UConn fans to show their support by wearing blue and white on Tuesday.

"The tradition of excellence continues as our UConn women continue to rewrite the record books. What they have accomplished is phenomenal and one more win will clearly set them in a class by themselves," Governor Rell said. "I urge all UConn fans to show their pride and support tomorrow by wearing blue and white to the office or in classrooms."

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.asp?A=3872&Q=470340 .

"Wreaths Across America” Returns to Old Saybrook, December 7th

2010-11-22T10:14:00.000-05:00

Old Saybrook, CT -- "Wreaths Across America" (www.wreathsacrossamerica.org) a traveling caravan escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders, will again return to Old Saybrook on Dec. 7, 2010, at 5:30 p.m. where it will be met by local veterans, townspeople and students.

Old Saybrook is a major official stop in Connecticut on WAA's journey to Arlington National Cemetery, where the group will place wreaths on the graves of thousands of fallen soldiers. The town has turned out in force to honor the traveling caravan in past years, so the Maine-based group will make the shoreline town a major stop again this year.

A wreath-laying at the Town Green War Memorial on Main Street (310 Main St; next door to OSFD fire headquarters) will be held on Tuesday, Dec 7, at 5:30 p.m. Special ceremonies will be held at the Old Saybrook High School at 1111 Boston Post Road in Old Saybrook on Tuesday, Dec, 7, at 7 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. Special guest Master of Ceremonies will be Gil Simmons (a Marine) and morning TV meteorologist for NEWS8, who is honored to be a part of this special ceremony.

Invited this year as part of the town's special tribute are U.S. Senator-Elect and Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, Governor-Elect Dan Malloy, Governor M. Jodi Rell, Lt. Governor-Elect and State Comptroller Nancy Wyman, 2nd District Congressman Joe Courtney, and State Representative Marilyn Giuliano.

Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreaths in Maine, began his generous initiative in 1992 with a trailer full of New England-grown wreaths decorated by volunteers, which he laid at the graves of fallen soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Over the years, the "Wreaths" mission has grown to encompass its current theme of "Remember, Honor, and Teach" the value of freedom in today's world.

"We're honored to be able to pay tribute again this year to Wreaths Across America and its message of honoring our veterans," says Max Sabrin, one of the event coordinators and a member of the all-volunteer Old Saybrook Fire Department. "Two years ago, we hosted them in town and they were all touched by the generosity and genuine goodwill that this town showed them. So they wanted to stop here again, and everyone in town has pulled together to make Tuesday, Dec. 7, and Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2010, a very special time for Morrill & Karen Worcester and the 'Wreaths Across America' folks and for those of us in Old Saybrook."

Sabrin says this year's third annual tribute will include local Connecticut veterans, citizen volunteers, as well as high school students, local Boy Scouts, and the Color/Honor Guards from the U.S. Navy Sub Base, the U.S.Coast Guard, the Old Saybrook Police Department, the Old Saybrook Fire Department, CT Statewide Honor Guard and the Connecticut State Police.

There will be a special half-hour assembly and presentation emceed by Kevin Hogan, WFSB Eyewitness News anchor and New London Bureau Chief on Wednesday, Dec. 8, at 9 a.m. at the Old Saybrook Middle School, 60 Sheffield Street. It is free and open to the public. Anyone interested in helping to defray expenses can make a donation to the Old Saybrook Fire Department, 310 Main St., Old Saybrook, CT, 06475. Please note on the check "Wreaths Across America Donation."

Playhouse on Park presents A Special New Year's Eve Interactive Murder Mystery Party, Dec. 31, 8 PM

2010-11-21T11:15:00.000-05:00

Playhouse on Park presents A Special New Year's Eve Interactive Murder Mystery Party - Viva West Hartford: Murder of Park Road Strip, December 31, 8pm.

Playhouse on Park's holding its second annual New Year's Eve Murder Mystery Party and this time they're heading to Las Vegas! This is an interactive party where YOU are involved. Discover your "character" and come "dressed to kill"! The party includes beer/wine, hearty hors d'oeuvres, a champagne toast, coffee, dessert and an evening of lies, scandal and murder. Ring in the New Year while uncovering clues that will point you to the killer! Once you purchase your ticket, you will be sent details pertaining to your "role" for the evening. Space is limited. Tickets must be purchased in advance, there will be no tickets sold at the door. And remember...What happens at the Playhouse stays at the Playhouse!

Don't miss out on your chance to solve the murder mystery! Tickets are $55 per person and the event will take place on New Year's Eve, December 31st from 8pm-1am. This event sold out last year! Playhouse on Park is located at 244 Park Road, West Hartford, CT.

For more information or ticket reservations please visit our website at www.playhouseonpark.org or call (860) 523-5900 x10.

Latinos in the Arts Community Day at Wadsworth Atheneum

2010-10-27T11:02:00.000-04:00

•

Latinos in the Arts: Hartford Inspires

Free Community Day at Wadsworth Atheneum for the entire family!

As part of its ongoing Community Engagement Initiative, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is hosting a free Community Day dedicated to Connecticut 's Latino community on Saturday, October 30, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The day's free activities include tours of the museum's collections and special exhibitions, drop-in art-making activities suitable for all ages, and live performances by community arts organizations.

Visitors can also experience the latest special exhibition in the museum's Connections Gallery, a new dedicated space for interactive exhibitions and collaborations. Entitled Connections Gallery: Pepón Osorio, the exhibition focuses on Puerto Rican artist Pepón Osorio's Barber Shop Chair, an object from Osorio's larger installation on Park Street called En la barbería no se llora from 1994. Pepón Osorio, Real Art Ways executive director Will K. Wilkins, city councilman Luis Cotto and curator Andrea Miller-Keller will discuss the impact of Osorio's project on Hartford at 1:00 p.m.

In addition to the panel discussion, attendees can experience live music and community dance performances from all over Latin America featuring Guakibom Jazz; Mariachi Trovadores de America & Bailarines de La Casita Azteca; Negrura Peruana; Raíces, Mi Casa; Somos Perú; and Trinity Samba Ensemble. Or visitors can enjoy the sounds song and dance rhythms from the Americas , Puerto Rico and Spain of GOZA Latin Band for lunch at the café.

The day ends with the delightful film Akeelah and the Bee, the inspiring story of an 11 year-old girl from South Los Angeles who has to overcome various obstacles before she makes it to the National Spelling Bee.

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.

The Children's Museum to hold a Ghoulish Family Fun Halloween event, Oct. 31, 11 AM to 4 PM

2010-10-27T10:58:00.001-04:00

The Children's Museum in West Hartford is holding a ghoulish family fun Halloween event. Children will decorate their Halloween bags with a jack o'lantern face, transform lollipops into ghosts, play monster bingo, and go on a scavenger hunt with their family. There will be face painting, and if weather permits, pumpkin bowling outside. This event is open to the public from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday October 31st.

All activities are free with $11 dollar admission. Free parking. Children will get $2 off the admission fee when dressed in their coolest costumes. Halloween is a real treat, so come together to learn, be creative and have fun!

Time Capsule to Mark CT's 375th Anniversary

2010-10-22T09:46:00.001-04:00

Gov. M. Jodi Rell today announced that the 375^th Anniversary Commission is preparing to bury a time capsule by the end of 2010 to culminate the year-long celebration of the state's 375^th Anniversary and is inviting the public to submit ideas for inclusion.

A link to e-mail suggestions can be found on the 375^th Anniversary Web site at: www.ct375.com. Deadline for submissions is November 1. The 375^th Anniversary Commission, established by the Governor early this year, will select the final items from the list of suggestions.

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.asp?A=3872&Q=467420 .

Recognize the Signs of Scams and Fraud Sat, 9/11 at 2pm

2010-09-10T13:19:00.001-04:00

Join Rosa DeLauro, U.S. Congresswoman for the 3rd Congressional District of Connecticut, for an informative seminar on recognizing common scams and frauds. Avoid being taken to the cleaners!

WHEN: Saturday, September 11 - 2:00 pm
WHERE: New Haven Free Public Library
   133 Elm Street, New Haven
   Program Room

COST: No Charge and Refreshments and giveaways!

PARKING: Free Saturday Parking at the Yale Temple Street Lot.

For more information: Contact Kate Cosgrove at 203-946-7001 or kate.cosgrove@nhfpl.org or newhavenlibrary50plus@gmail.com.

Check out their website at www.newhavenlibrary50plus.com

Gov. Rell: Saturday, Sept. 11 is Day of Remembrance; Flags at Half Staff; 8:46 AM Moment of Silence

2010-09-10T13:02:00.001-04:00

To mark the anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America , Governor M. Jodi Rell is asking state residents to observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. on Saturday, the time the first hijacked airliner crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City nine years ago. The Governor also directed that U.S. and State of Connecticut flags be flown at half-staff from sunrise through sundown on September 11. ( U.S. and State of Connecticut flags are already at half staff to honor the memory of Connecticut State Police Trooper Kenneth Hall, who was killed September 2 in a motor vehicle accident while on duty. Trooper Hall's funeral takes place on September 10.)

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.asp?A=3872&Q=465654 .

This Is Connecticut Has Moved!

2010-08-10T21:08:00.000-04:00

We've moved! ThisIsCT.net is now back hosted on our own server with Wordpress. You can visit the updated website at: http://www.thisisct.net/. The Blogger account will no longer be updated.

The events calendar is back online at: http://thisisct.net/events-calendar/

The brand new Facebook page is online. As part of my shameless self-promotion binge, and despite how cheesy this sounds to me, I’d like to ask you to “like me” on Facebook or follow me on http://www.twitter.com/this_is_ct. I tweet all the time about all things CT.

If you have any questions you can email me at calendar (at) thisisct.net.

2010 Connecticut Sales Tax Holiday

2010-07-28T16:51:00.000-04:00

Connecticut shoppers will have one week to buy items of clothing and footwear costing under $300 without paying Connecticut sales tax.

This year, the tax free week will run from Sunday, August 15 through Saturday, August 21, 2010.

Click here for more information about the rules that apply to the sales tax free week are found in SN 2006(10), One-Week Sales and Use Tax Exclusion in August for Clothing and Footwear Under $300.

Statewide Day of Caring & Compassion, July 31st

2010-07-28T16:36:00.001-04:00

Governor Rell Announces Statewide 'Day of Caring & Compassion' for July 31

Firefighters Across Connecticut Will Help Collect Non-Perishable Food for Connecticut Food Bank, Foodshare

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced a statewide “Day of Caring & Compassion” on Saturday, July 31, when several fire stations around Connecticut will serve as collection centers for donations of non-perishable food to help replenish the state’s two main food pantries.

“Mark it on the calendar. July 31 will be the day we can all help fill the shelves the shelves of Foodshare and Connecticut Food Bank,” Governor Rell said. “Fire departments around the state made our 2009 campaign such a success that we are delighted to have them again this year as partners.

“The economy is still very volatile and the need remains great for so many families who continue to struggle to make ends meet. With schools out for the summer, many children who were served by school lunch and breakfast programs do not now have that option. I am urging everyone to pitch in again this year and help Foodshare, Connecticut Food Bank and local fire departments help fill that void.”

The Governor said the goal is to collect as much non-perishable food as possible. Foodshare and the Connecticut Food Bank will organize pick-ups from the fire stations later in the day – and from there it will go to food pantries and people in need all across Connecticut.

The following fire stations in cities and towns across the state have confirmed that they will serve as collection centers:

DANBURY
19 New Street

ENFIELD
District #1
200 Phoenix Avenue

FAIRFIELD
Fire Station #1
140 Reef Road

MIDDLETOWN
169 Cross Street

NORTH WINDHAM
603 Boston Post Road

NORWICH
East Great Plain Volunteer Station
488 New London Turnpike

OLD SAYBROOK
310 Main Street

WATERBURY
740 Highland Avenue

WEST HARTFORD
20 Brace Road

WEST HAVEN
West Shore Fire District
860 Ocean Avenue

WESTPORT
Fire Headquarters
515 Post Road East

WILLIMANTIC
13 Bank Street

OSFD Participates in Connecticut's Day of Caring & Compassion on 7/31/2010

2010-07-15T12:19:00.001-04:00

The Old Saybrook Fire Department will join Governor M. Jodi Rell on Saturday, July 31, in the "Second Day of Caring & Compassion" by collecting donations of non-perishable food to help replenish Connecticut's two main food pantries that feed those in need.

Old Saybrook volunteer firefighters will be on hand at fire headquarters at 310 Main St. , Old Saybrook, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon to accept donations to benefit the Foodshare and Connecticut Food Bank pantries.

The Old Saybrook Fire Department, an all-volunteer organization, is one of 12 fire departments across the state to participate in the governor's Day of Caring & Compassion. Among the items acceptable for drop-off are foods such as pasta, canned goods, peanut butter and other non-perishable items.

Firefighters cannot collect cash or non-food items as part of the program to help those in need.

Other fire departments participating in the July 31 event include Danbury, Enfield, Fairfield, Middletown, North Windham, Norwich, Waterbury, West Hartford, West Haven, Westport and Willimantic.

RIVERFEST BEING MOVED TO SUNDAY

2010-07-08T11:32:00.001-04:00

RIVERFEST ACTIVITY AND FIREWORKS MOVING TO SUNDAY, JULY 11

Riverfront Recapture announced today (July 8) that all Riverfest activity, including fireworks, that was planned for Saturday, July 10, is moving to Sunday, July 11.

The forecast for heavy rains and thunderstorms for Saturday afternoon and evening has necessitated the change in schedule.

Riverfest entertainment will begin at 4 p.m. on Sunday at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza in downtown Hartford, and Great River Park and Founders Plaza in East Hartford. There is no admission charge.

Fireworks will be shot from two barges on the river at 9 p.m.

Complete Riverfest schedule details are available at www.riverfront.org.

Jazz is Cool – A Salon with trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis

2010-07-01T12:59:00.001-04:00

"Jazz is Cool – A Salon with trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis" is a first-time collaboration between the Litchfield Jazz Festival and Divas World Productions. The Salon, held on Saturday, July 24^th at 7:30 PM, will feature music by jazz great Delfeayo Marsalis.

The iconic Marsalis family, Delfeayo included, was recently named 2011 NEA Jazz Masters! Held at Kent School's Madison Auditorium, the Salon will feature music by Mr. Marsalis and top notch musical collaborators, commentary by the artist and a relaxed talk with audience members.

Tickets are $10 in advance and at the door.

For tickets and information, visit www.litchfieldjazzfest.com or call 860-361-6285.

"Jazz is Cool" is part of a 30 part concert series, "Kent has that Jazz," presented by the Litchfield Jazz Festival, which is open to the public for free and runs from July 12 – August 7 in Kent with performances by Litchfield Jazz Camp's renowned faculty and talented students.

Mystic Aquarium to Host Live Web Discussion About Gulf Oil Spill

2010-07-01T11:32:00.001-04:00

Web panel on July 7 to feature updates on the oil spill and Q&A session with Mystic Aquarium experts

Since May, Sea Research Foundation has been working collaboratively with key institutions in the Gulf region to assist with oil spill efforts. On July 7, people around the world can get up-to-date information on the oil spill from Sea Research staff and ask them questions during a live web panel discussion from 6 to 7 p.m.

Accessible through www.immersionlearning.org/webinars, the roundtable will include Public Conservation Programs Manager MaryEllen Mateleska; Stranding Coordinator Janelle Schuh; and Staff Veterinarian and Director of Animal Care Dr. Allison Tuttle. Vice President of Education Kelly Matis will serve as moderator. The group will provide an overview of the oil spill and Sea Research Foundation's involvement both in Mystic and Louisiana , as well as show how oil affects various marine animals and coastal habitats. Viewers – which will include students at Boys & Girls Clubs across the country through Immersion Learning, Sea Research Foundation's national education division – will have the opportunity to submit questions before and during the discussion.

Information on the Gulf Coast , the effect of oil on marine animals and how people can help protect oceans is available at http://www.mysticaquarium.org. At Immersion Learning's Web site (www.immersionlearning.org) and Facebook page, kids can find up-to-the-minute news coverage on the oil spill.

Social Web Week CT #swCT

2010-07-01T11:01:00.001-04:00

swCT2010 @ New Haven July 10-16, 2010

Social Web Week CT 2010, is a grassroots initiative "bringing the web down from the clouds and into our streets, where we live, work, and play." swCT 2010 features 7 days of live events grouped into themes, with daily questions posed to all of us, a collective call to action to make the social web truly transformative for CT.

Saturday | Destination CT: How can me we make our local scenes ever more exciting via the social web?
Sunday | Friends & Family: How can we use the social web to lead more fun, healthy and sustainable lives in CT?
Monday | Technologists & Entrepreneurs: How can the social web help us help each other?
Tuesday | Across the Sectors: Social web within and across sectors - biz, nonprofits, politics, arts, community?
Wednesday | Marketing for Marketers: CT as a destination for cutting-edge marketing with more results, less hype?
Thursday | Daylong Fundraiser for a CT Cause - Live and via the Social Web!
Friday | Connecting in Connecticut: How can we grow and stay more connected across our diverse counties in CT?

All events free and open to the public.

For more information on the schedule of events at Social Web Week CT please visit:
http://www.socialwebct.com/

Independence Day Fireworks in Connecticut

2010-07-01T10:41:00.001-04:00

Where to find Independence Day Fireworks in Connecticut for 2010.

WTNH:
http://www.wtnh.com/dpp/news/connecticut/2010-fireworks

WFSB:
List Of 2010 Fireworks Across Connecticut:
http://www.wfsb.com/station/24067762/detail.html

July Fourth events and fireworks in Fairfield county Connecticut:
http://www.fairfieldcountyonline.com/articles/348/

Megan Fox Loves the Whalers

2010-06-30T10:54:00.001-04:00

From NESN: Newly married Transformers star Megan Fox spotted "Doing Her Very Best to Bring Whalers Back to Hartford'. Actually the well-dressed actress was spotted wearing a Hartford Whalers t-shirt. That should send sales of the popular Whalers merchandise soaring.

See the photo on the NESN website:
http://www.nesn.com/2010/06/megan-fox-doing-her-very-best-to-bring-whalers-back-to-hartford.html

The Eagles Have Landed!

2010-06-30T08:26:00.001-04:00

Connecticut's only Zoo gives three Bald Eagles a brand new home

BRIDGEPORT, Conn - June 29, 2010 - Just in time for the 4th of July, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo welcomes three Bald Eagles to the family. The three eagles, all male, are taking up residence in a newly constructed exhibit on Zoo grounds.

"The Zoo has been working for many years to bring Bald Eagles to Connecticut," noted Gregg Dancho, Zoo director. "With generous support from our sponsors, we are thrilled to have these three majestic animals join the Zoo family."

Two of the eagles, Temp and Kada, came to the Zoo from the Alaska Raptor Center. The third, who is yet to be given a name, hails from the Florida Audubon Society. The exhibiting of Bald Eagles is done with permission from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These eagles are not flighted birds. They are only able to hop and have a small bit of lift off the ground. They were each rescued from the wild due to wing damage that restricted their ability to fly.

The Bald Eagle, the national symbol of the United States, was almost wiped out entirely throughout the country. Hunting and DDT poisoning threatened the species. It was not until strict pesticide guidelines were enforced and it became illegal to hunt this bird that the Bald Eagle population began to increase.

Bald Eagles use their talons to catch fish, and therefore tend to live near water sources such as lakes and rivers. They also will scavenge carrion, steal other animals' kills and catch small mammals. Bald Eagles, who have an average life span of 28 years, are believed to mate for life and build enormous nests for the pair of eggs they will lay each year. Bald Eagles are neither social nor antisocial birds. As long as there is enough food, the birds have no reason to interact with each other.

The Zoo's new Bald Eagle exhibit was made possible with support from the following generous donors: The Brandywine Foundation, Jeff Liskov, Eagle Scout Troop 68, the Scott Family, the Stemme Family, Unilever United States Foundation, Inc., and The Connecticut Zoological Society Docent Association. Bridgeport architecture firm Antinozzi Associates donated the exhibit design.

Sign Up for CT Emergency Notification Alerts

2010-06-29T10:19:00.001-04:00

The state of Connecticut is now signing up residents for a statewide emergency notification system, the first comprehensive one of its kind in the U.S. , according to state officials.

CT Alert allows state authorities to communicate critical information to its residents before, during and after emergencies. The system is a fast and efficient way for Connecticut authorities to reach residents during events such as natural disasters and public-health emergencies, officials said.

Some towns in Connecticut - such as Mystic and Pawcatuck -- already have used the CT Alert system to help people stranded by storms in the spring.

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/dps/cwp/view.asp?Q=462250&A=11.

Shakespeare Festival presents "A Midsummer Night's Dream

2010-06-26T13:54:00.001-04:00

Capital Classics Shakespeare Festival presents "A Midsummer Night's Dream," July 8 to July 25

The Capital Classics Shakespeare Festival, in partnership with The Carol Autorino Center at Saint Joseph College, presents A Midsummer Night's Dream, July 8-25, 2010.

A professional company of players performs this classic comedy in the sunken garden of the Autorino Center on the campus of Saint Joseph College (rain location: the adjacent The Hoffman Auditorium).

Pre-show entertainment includes the music of the Elizabethan Consort. Tickets ($12 adults, $7 students) are available at the door or via: www.sjc.edu/arts <http://www.sjc.edu/arts> or 860-231-5555.

Bring a picnic, lawn chair, blankets and friends!

Horrible Website

2010-06-25T21:28:00.000-04:00

Hello, this is a brief website update for ThisIsCT.net. I haven't had a lot of time to work on it recently, certainly have not given it the time it deserves, because it needs a MAJOR update, and taking on such a huge challenge is rather daunting. So, right now, we have a "band-aid" solution. The blog/updates are appearing via RSS on the main page or at this link since the host Blogger stopped allowing me to publish via FTP to my own domain. Thanks a lot Blogger.

I am currently in the planning stages of moving to Wordpress. I like what I see so far, just slightly worried about being able to commit to one theme, and stick with it. I don't want to do a "theme of the week" website.

That's about it. Thank you for visiting, and hopefully I will be able to update more regularly in the near future. I appreciate the feedback, if you would like to leave a comment for me.

I do regularly update my Twitter page with news and events and all things Connecticut. Visit: http://twitter.com/this_is_ct
Thank you,
Linzi

Donations Needed for New State Vets' Memorial

2010-05-24T18:51:00.001-04:00

Governor M. Jodi Rell today unveiled the winning design for the statewide memorial that will be built in Rocky Hill to provide a place of honor and reflection for the service of all Connecticut veterans – past, present and future. Governor Rell also announced the start of an aggressive fundraising effort to help pay for construction of the memorial.

The memorial will be located adjacent to the Col. Raymond F. Gates Memorial Cemetery on West Street in Rocky Hill, across from the state Department of Veterans' Affairs. The construction of the memorial is slated to begin by Veterans' Day 2010.

To make a donation to the fundraising effort, checks and money orders should be made payable to Connecticut State Veterans Memorial, Inc. and mailed to: Connecticut State Veterans Memorial, Inc., c/o Rockville Bank, P.O. Box 660, Rockville, CT 06066.

More information can be found by visiting www.cthonorsvets.org.

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.asp?A=3872&Q=460560 .

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

2010-05-04T11:49:00.000-04:00

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

2010-04-20T11:06:00.001-04:00

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

2010-04-14T09:12:00.001-04:00

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

2010-04-14T09:09:00.001-04:00

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

2010-04-14T09:07:00.001-04:00

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

2010-03-03T13:11:00.001-05:00

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

2010-03-02T11:01:00.000-05:00

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

2010-02-26T10:50:00.001-05:00

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

2010-02-18T12:07:00.001-05:00

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

2010-02-17T14:27:00.000-05:00

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

2010-02-08T13:01:00.001-05:00

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

2010-01-15T11:17:00.001-05:00

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

2010-01-14T10:31:00.001-05:00

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

2010-01-01T12:02:00.001-05:00

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!

2010-01-01T12:00:00.001-05:00

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!

2009-12-28T19:00:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-12-24T10:04:00.000-05:00

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

2009-12-13T16:32:00.000-05:00

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

2009-12-13T09:00:00.001-05:00

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"

2009-12-12T13:54:00.001-05:00

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

2009-12-03T19:20:00.000-05:00

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

2009-12-01T15:54:00.001-05:00

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

2009-12-01T15:35:00.000-05:00

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

2009-12-01T08:00:00.012-05:00

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

2009-11-27T15:41:00.000-05:00

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/

Connecticut Traffic Interactive Map

2009-11-27T10:59:00.002-05:00

As thousands of Connecticut residents take to the roadways for the Thanksgiving holiday, Governor M. Jodi Rell announced that a new interactive travel information map is now available at www.ct.gov/dot/cttravel.

"This is the busiest travel period of the year," Governor Rell said. "I want everyone to arrive at their destinations safely and on time. Timely information about current road conditions will help reduce headaches and reduce congestion. I am urging commuters and travelers to put this site on their 'favorites' lists."

The map shows construction points, details any traffic incidents on the roadways, and lists all the traffic cameras so you can see what you're getting into before you hit the road.

www.ct.gov/dot/cttravel

40 + Fun and Fabulous Things to do in Connecticut December 2009

2009-11-26T22:20:00.003-05:00

Follow ThisIsCT.net on Twitter to see the latest things to do weekends in Connecticut. December events are listed by date, with sports at the bottom. Feedback please email me linzi (at) thisisct.net or make a note in the comments area. More to come for this list!

See the lights...
The Nutcracker
A Christmas Carol
At the Casinos
Sports in December

See the lights...

That House in Milford
They have become "that house" in their neighborhood. Now with close to 45,000 energy-efficient colored lights on their house (they broke the Griswold barrier in 2006) Chris and Ann Donnells celebrate the season by sharing their amazing display with everyone.
Opening Night: Friday, November 28, 5:00 to 10:00
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: 5:00 to 10:00
New Year's Eve and New Year's Day: 5:00 to 10:00
Regular Schedule
Sunday - Thursday: 5:00 to 9:00
Friday and Saturday: 5:00 to 10:00
Where: 75 Meadows End Road, Milford, Connecticut 06460
http://www.thathouseinmilford.com/

Hartford Festival of Light
The lights are a-glow nightly between November 27 and January 6, from 4:00pm-Midnight;
Activites are held at the Opening Ceremony and on Santa Saturdays; There is no admission fee for the Hartford Festival of Light(R). Ample parking is available in the Constitution Plaza Garages and State House Square Garage and are free with the donation of a toy or $5 to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves' Toys for Tots program. Bring the kids for Santa Saturdays activities at Constitution Plaza, the Old State House and State House Square. Sit down with Santa and don’t forget to bring your camera!
Opening Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 27, 2009, 5:30p.m.
Constitution Plaza, Downtown Hartford
Bring a new, unwrapped toy to benefit the
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program
www.letsgoarts.org/hfol

15th Annual Fantasy of Lights
Drive through an enchanting land of sparkling lights and spectacular holiday light displays.
Runs through December 31st. Open every night including holidays!
DATES: November 20 - December 31
Lighthouse Point Park
2 Lighthouse Road, New Haven, CT
HOURS
5-9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays
5-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
ADMISSION
Cars and family vans $10
15-passenger-type vans or small buses $25
Full-size buses $50
http://newhavengoodwill.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=CTNH_events

Bright Nights at Forest Park
Ok, it's not in Connecticut, but it's not too far away either, and that's why it's included in this list. It's worth a trip.
DATES: Wednesday to Sunday - November 25th through December 6th
Nightly -- December 9th through January 2nd
Sunday to Thursday -- 5PM to 9PM
Friday, Saturday and Holidays* - 5PM to 11PM
ADMISSION: Cars, Mini-Vans, Trucks & Motor Homes (Price per vehicle)
OPENING NIGHT SPECIAL - $6
Monday to Thursday - $15
Friday to Sunday and Holidays - $18
Gift Passes - $13
Forest Park, Springfield, MA
http://www.brightnights.org/

Winterfest
Winterfest has been a tradition in East Windsor for many years and a favorite of CT Trolley Museum visitors of all ages. Some visitors return every year from all over the area to see the museum all decked out with holiday spirit. Ride through the Tunnel of Lights on the electric sleigh, or choose an enclosed heated trolley. Don’t forget to visit Santa in the Visitor Center, where he’ll be holding court among the exciting model railroad displays. Winterfest runs on selected evenings beginning Nov. 27th.
SCHEDULE:
Friday, November 27, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, November 28, 5pm - 9 pm
Sunday, November 29, 5pm - 9 pm
Thursday, December 3, 6pm - 9pm
Friday, December 4, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 5, 5pm - 9 pm
Sunday, December 6, 5pm - 9 pm
Thursday, December 10, 6pm - 9pm
Friday, December 11, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 12, 5pm - 9 pm
Sunday, December 13, 5pm - 9 pm
Thursday, December 17, 6pm - 9pm
Friday, December 18, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 19, 5pm - 9 pm
Sunday, December 20, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 26, 5pm - 9 pm
Sunday, December 27, 5pm - 9 pm
Monday, December 28, 5pm - 9 pm
Tuesday, December 29, 5pm - 9 pm
TICKETS: Adult $10.00, Member $5.00
Senior Citizen (62 years and over) $8.00, Member $4.00
Youth (2 to 12 years) $6.00, Member $3.00
Under 2 – $3.00, Member $1.50
CT Trolley Museum
58 North Road, East Windsor CT 06088
www.ct-trolley.org/new

Lantern Light Tours at Mystic Seaport
Walking Tour: It's Christmas Eve 1876. The Gardner family has struggled each Christmas since the War Between the States, when their beloved Captain Gardner was lost. No proof exists of his death, and for eleven years the family has wondered what happened to their father and husband. Join us on a journey through Greenmanville, a town hurt by war and healed by the hope and love of family.
Saturday, November 28, 5pm - 9 pm
Friday, December 4, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 5, 5pm - 9 pm
Friday, December 11, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 12, 5pm - 9 pm
Friday, December 18, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 19, 5pm - 9 pm
Sunday, December 20, 5pm - 9 pm
Saturday, December 26, 5pm - 9 pm
Sunday, December 27, 5pm - 9 pm
TICKETS: Adult: $24 member / $26 non-member
Youth: $17 member / $19 non-member
http://www.mysticseaport.org/

The Season's Splendor: A Victorian Village Holiday Ride
Bundle up your family, gather up your friends and come to Mystic Seaport for a ride on a horse-drawn carriage. Enjoy the famed Mystic Seaport holiday decorations as you ride along the scenic Mystic River and through the Museum's historic village streets.
Rides start at 11AM from the Visitor Reception Center
Sunday, November 29, 11am
Saturday, December 5, 11am
Sunday, December 6, 11am
Saturday, December 12, 11am
Sunday, December 13, 11am
Saturday, December 19, 11am
Saturday, December 26, 11am
Sunday, December 27, 11am
TICKETS: Adult: $8 member / $29 non-member
Youth: $8 member / $20 non-member
http://www.mysticseaport.org/

House Tour and Holiday Lights Tour, New Canaan
The New Canaan Newcomers Club presents this holiday house tour, featuring five spectacular homes festively decorated by professional designers. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of the season, while also helping to support local charities. When the sun goes down, take in the glittering lights on our trolley-guided Holiday Lights Tour.
Fri, December 4, 10am – 9pm
House Tour: 10 am to 4 pm
Holiday Lights Tour: 6 pm to 9 pm
Information: holiday_house_tour@yahoo.com
Tickets: http://www.ncholidayhousetour.com/

Castleberry Christmas Craft Expo
Craft show featuring over 250 different crafts exhibitors each weekend have become a tradition.
CT Expo Center, 265 Rev. Moody Overpass
Show Hours:
Friday, December 4th 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday, December 5th, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday, December 6th, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Admission $7.00 (Save $2 with coupon - click here www.castleberryfairs.com/coupons/coupon_200918.htm )
Free Parking
http://www.castleberryfairs.com/

Holidays on Heckscher Farm @ SM&NC
Take a holiday from the holidays and take a wintry stroll on Heckscher Farm at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center on Fridays, Dec. 4, 11, and 18. The Stamford Museum & Nature Center will be free for visitors on Fridays in December, and will have extended hours on our Heckscher Farm until 7 p.m. Take a stroll along our luminary path, enjoy some free hot cocoa and reconnect with your family and friends. At 7 p.m., stop in the Observatory to see "The Star of Bethlehem" and stay for the 8 p.m. open Observatory hours. The Exchange Club will be selling Christmas trees in our north parking lot. Holidays on Heckscher is free and open to the public as our gift to the community.
Friday, December 4, 12pm – 1pm
Friday, December 11, 12pm – 1pm
Friday, December 18, 12pm – 1pm
Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford CT 06903
Phone: 203-322-1646
http://www.stamfordmuseum.org/

Breakfast with Santa at The Bushnell
Santa is traveling direct from the North Pole to The Bushnell! This magical morning includes a delicious breakfast, crafts and more. Christmas lists accepted!
There will be two sessions: 8:30 am-10:15 am & 10:45 am-12:15 pm
Ticket Prices: Children, $16.50; Adults, $21.50
Saturday, December 5, at 8:30am & 10:45am
Autorino Great Hall, The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
Box Office: 860-987-6000
http://www.bushnell.org/

Joy in the Making: A Creative Approach to the Holidays
Sundays November 29 through January 10 1-5pm FREE with Museum Admission Sunday visitors enjoy hands-on holiday craft workshops and creative projects that relate to the spirit of the season. For all ages!
Sunday, December 6, 1pm – 5pm
Sunday, December 13, 1pm – 5pm
Sunday, December 20, 1pm – 5pm
Sunday, December 27, 1pm – 5pm
Florence Griswold Museum, 96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT
Phone: 860-434-5542
http://www.florencegriswoldmuseum.org/

29th Annual Mark Twain Holiday House Tour
The Friends of The Mark Twain House & Museum will be decking the halls of five elegant homes in Hartford and West Hartford for the occasion. Join us as these private homes, plus Mark Twain’s magical mansion, open their doors to you, festooned with arrangements by local florists. Enjoy the live music in each locale.
Sunday, December 6, 2009, from 11 am to 4 pm
Tickets are $30 each in advance. ($35 if purchased on the day of the tour.)
http://www.marktwainhouse.org/

Heights & Lights
Rappelling Santa and Tree Lighting and fireworks display. Also stars the Broadway Kids and K.T. Murphy Chamber Singers. Free hot chocolate.
Sunday, December 6th, 4:30pm
Landmark Square, Stamford, CT
http://www.stamford-downtown.com/

Hockanum Valley Ringers Bell Choir
This handbell choir concerts typically feature a variety of classic Christian hymns and songs arranged for handbells and chimes.
Trinity Lutheran Church, 20 Meadowlark Road, Vernon, CT
Saturday, December 5, 4:00 pm
Glastonbury Community Center, 300 Welles St Glastonbury, CT

Saturday, December 12, 1:00 pm
Buckland Hills Mall, 194 Buckland Hills Dr, Manchester, CT 06042
Sunday, December 6, 2-4 pm
Brass Mill Center, Waterbury, CT 06076
Saturday, December 19, 1-3 pm
http://www.hvringers.org/

3rd Annual Unsilent Night
Enjoy refreshments as you pick up your music. Processional steps off promptly at 6:15 pm, winding its way through the streets of New Haven and across the Green (which will be decorated with the Holiday Tree and Luminaria), returning to the Yale Bookstore for a meet and greet with composer Phil Kline at 7pm. Bring a boombox, or anything that will blast a cassette, CD, or MP3...
Thursday, December 10, 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Yale Bookstore, 77 Broadway, New Haven, CT
www.artidea.org/event.php?id=246

Brian Boitano Skating Spectacular Starring Chicago
Olympic gold-medalist Brian Boitano and LIVE musical guest Chicago star in Musselman’s Applesauce presents BRIAN BOITANO SKATING SPECTACULAR, a new theatrical figure skating event. Special guest stars will include* three time National Champion and two time World Bronze Medalist Michael Weiss, World Champion Yuka Sato, as well as World Champion Kimmie Meissner, U.S National Champion Alissa Czisny, Eight-time British Champion Steven Cousins, Two-time World Professional Champions Elena Leonova & Andrei Khvalko, and World Silver Medalists Marie-France Dubreuil & Patrice Lauzon.
Saturday, December 12, 5pm – 6pm
Tickets: $115.25, $95.25, $59.25 and $39.25
Arena at Harbor Yard, 600 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604
http://www.arenaatharboryard.com/

Visit with Santa at the Lyman Homestead!
Sunday, Dec. 13 & 20th; 10am-2pm
Lyman Orchards is located at the Junction of Routes 147 & 157 in Middlefield, CT 06455.
Phone: 860-349-1793
http://www.lymanorchards.com/

54th Annual Community Carol Sing
Want to enjoy our annual Community Carol Sing and Mystic Seaport for free? Bring a canned good for a local charity. Last year, nearly 3,000 visitors donated almost 5,000 pounds of food. All food items are distributed by the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center.
Sunday, December 20, 2009, 3 pm
http://www.mysticseaport.org/

NUTCRACKER
Nutmeg Ballet Presents The Nutcracker Enjoy yourself this yuletide season as you travel with young Clara to the enchanted Land of Sweets. Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts/Nutmeg Ballet bring Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker back to The Bushnell and the Warner Theater, delighting audiences young and old. This holiday favorite brings to life toy soldiers and dueling mice, princesses and sugarplums - a delicious treat for the child in all of us.
Saturday, December 5, 2pm
Sunday, December 6, 2pm
Saturday, December 12, 7pm
Sunday, December 13, 2pm
Warner Theatre, 68 Main Street, Torrington, CT
Box Office: 860-489-7180
Tickets start at $17
http://www.warnertheatre.org/

Saturday, December 19, 11:30am & 3:30pm
Sunday, December 20, 11:30am & 3:30pm
The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
Tickets start at $27.50
Box Office: 860-987-5900
http://www.bushnell.org/

Albano's Nutcracker
The Albano Ballet Company production of The Nutcracker is a holiday favorite at Mohegan Sun, thrilling audiences old, young and in-between. Accompanied by a live orchestra under the baton of Maestro Daniel Lee, Albano's traditional version touts an international cast with dancers from Italy, Japan, China, Korea, France, Canada, Holland and Croatia.
Saturday, December 12th - 7:00pm
Sunday, December 13th - 2:00pm
Tickets: $33.00 & $23.00 $5.00 discount for children under 12 and senior citizens
Mohegan Sun Arena
http://www/mohegansun.com/entertainment/?page=3&

The Nutcracker Presented by the New Haven Ballet
The time-honored holiday magic of The Nutcracker is brought to life at the Shubert in this classical ballet performed by students of the New Haven Ballet with music by Orchestra New England.
TICKETS: $53.00, $43.00, $28.00, $18.00
Friday, December 18, 7:30pm
Saturday, December 19, 2:00pm
Saturday, December 19, 7:30pm
Sunday, December 20, 2:00pm
Shubert Theater, 247 College Street, New Haven
Box Office: (203) 624-1825
www.capa.com/newhaven/events/event.php?e=38

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

A Christmas Carol The timeless Dickens tale of the bah-humbug Ebenezer Scrooge haunted on Christmas Eve by ghosts of the past, present and future.

A Christmas Carol at The Hartford Stage
12th anniversary of A Christmas Carol, Connecticut's favorite holiday tradition! 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
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
http://www.hartfordstage.org/

Ebeneeza - A Hartford Holiday Carol
Set in modern day Hartford, Ebeneeza is a multi-cultural retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Three weekends, three Hartford neighborhoods. All Hartford shows are FREE!
Kinsella Magnet School for the Performing Arts
Friday & Saturday December 4 & 5 7:30pm
The Mark Twain Museum Center
Friday & Saturday December 11 & 12 7:30pm,
Sunday December 13 2:00pm
West Indian Social Club
Friday & Saturday December 18 & 19 7:30pm

West Hartford - one weekend only
Saturday December 26 @7:30pm,
Sunday December 27 2:00pm
Playhouse on Park
Tickets $20/$15 students, seniors and let’s go arts members
Box Office: 860 523-5900
http://www.playhouseonpark.org/
http://www.hartbeatensemble.org/

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
This beloved classic by Barbara Robinson is about six wild and unruly children who teach a whole community about the true meaning of Christmas.
Grace Bradley inherits the job of running her church's Christmas pageant when the woman who usually does it breaks her leg. When the Herdmans (the nastiest kids in the neighborhood) decide they want to be in this year's Christmas pageant, everyone is sure it will be a disaster. But when the curtain finally goes up, a miracle happens--- what ensues are laughter, tears, a small fire and the best Christmas pageant ever.
December 3rd - 13th, 2009
Performances Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm/ Saturday & Sunday at 2pm
Tickets: $25 for adults, $20 for students and $15 for children under 12
Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St., Ivoryton section of Essex
Box office: 860-767-7318
http://www.ivorytonplayhouse.org/

All Aboard The North Pole Express at the Essex Steam Train
Board a locomotive-powered sleigh...for a magical nighttime journey to the North Pole. Every coach becomes a stage for a live, musical performance of The Night Before Christmas. Celebrate the spirit of the season with Santa and Mrs. Claus, sing-a-longs, hot chocolate and sugar cookies.
Dates: Tues - Sun from Nov 27 through Dec 27.
Prices: Adults $19.99, Children $6.99
The Valley Railroad Company, One Railroad Avenue, Essex, CT
Phone: 860-887-8515
www.essexsteamtrain.com/northpole.html

Ride the Santa Special at the Essex Steam Train
All aboard the Santa Special for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience! Enjoy the spirit of the season as you relax with family and friends aboard festive rail cars adorned with vintage decorations. Bring your camera for that special moment. Santa promises to visit each child to review his or her Christmas list. Mrs. Claus, Rudolph and Christmas Penquin will be on board to spread holiday cheer. Plus, each child will receive a small holiday gift from Santa's Elves!
Dates: Nov 27 - 29, Dec 5 - 6, Dec 12 - 13, Dec 19 - 20, 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Departures
Tickets: Coach Tickets: $17, Parlor Car: $34
The Valley Railroad Company, One Railroad Avenue, Essex, CT
Phone: 860-887-8515
Prices: Adults $19.99, Children $6.99
The Valley Railroad Company, One Railroad Avenue, Essex, CT
Phone: 860-887-8515
www.essexsteamtrain.com/santa.html

Nativities of Latin America
The Knights of Columbus Museum, for the fifth consecutive year, is pleased to offer a Christmas exhibition of Nativity scenes or crèches. A long-held Christian tradition, the Nativity scene is an artistic representation of the birth of Jesus Christ. The practice of creating and displaying these Nativity scenes as a part of the annual Christmas observance has spread throughout the world and taken on many cultural distinctions, which is evident in this exhibition.Will include over 120 creches from nations in Central and South America, the Caribbean and the Southwest U.S. November 19, 2009 to January 31, 2010
Wednesday - Saturday: 10 - 5
Sunday: 11- 5
Knights of Columbus Museum, New Haven, CT

Hartford Symphony Orchestra Holiday POPS! Spectacular
It’s Hartford's favorite holiday tradition. Edward Cumming invites you to celebrate with Holiday POPS! Spectacular. Treat the whole family to sparkling carols, seasonal chestnuts and spirited choruses, all gloriously performed with the Hartford Symphony. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas!, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Little Drummer Boy, O Holy Night, music from Nutcracker, Messiah, and more. Plus sing-alongs and a visit from Santa!
Ticket Prices: $30.00-$62.00
Thursday, December 10, at 7:30pm
Friday, December 11, at 8:00pm
Saturday, December 12, at 3:00pm & 8:00pm
Maxwell and Ruth Belding Theater at The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
Box Office: 860-244-2999
http://www.hartfordsymphony.org/
http://www.bushnell.org/

Christmas with the Rat Pack - Live at The Sands
Beat the winter blues with the holiday version of The Rat Pack Live at The Sands, especially created to heat things up for the coolest kind of holiday cheer. This spectacular show celebrates the incredible talent of three of the world’s most famous entertainers, singing some of the finest music ever recorded. Drift back to a glamorous era with Frank, Sammy & Dean, a live 15-piece big band and the fabulous Burelli Sisters.
Ticket Prices: $15.00-$65.00
Tuesday, December 15, at 7:30pm
Wednesday, December 16, at 7:30pm
Thursday, December 17, at 7:30pm
Friday, December 18, at 8:00pm
Saturday, December 19, at 2:00pm & 8:00pm
Sunday, December 20, at 2:00pm & 7:30pm
The William H. Mortensen Hall at The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
Box Office: 860-987-6000
http://www.bushnell.org/

Holiday Sea of Trees at Mystic Aquarium
‘Tis the season to deck the halls with boughs of holly – and more than 20 Christmas trees! Everything is illuminated during the annual Holiday Sea of Trees, featuring a variety of uniquely themed trees decorated by local organizations. The magic takes place from November 27 to January 4 on the main exhibit floor, where the trees’ lights reflecting off the exhibits’ glass create a bright and festive atmosphere. COST: Free with aquarium admission: Adults $26, seniors $23, children (ages 3 to 17) $19, free for children 2 and under. November 27 to January 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last aquarium admission at 4 p.m.)
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355
http://www.mysticaquarium.org/

At the Casinos in December

Mohegan Sun - Uncasville, CT
Tuesday, December 1, 7:00pm Davisson Brothers Band
Wednesday, December 2, 7:00pm Sugar
Thursday, December 3, 7:00pm Rob Zombie
Friday, December 4, 8:00pm Ronnie Spector Christmas Show
Saturday, December 5, 8:00pm Kenny Rogers Christmas and Hits Tour Live
Saturday, December 5, 8:00pm Jimi Jamison
Monday, December 7, 7:00pm House of Lords with Tango Down
Tuesday, December 8, 7:00pm Gotham
Wednesday, December 9, 8:00pm Jonell Mosser
Thursday, December 10, 8:00pm Anvil
Friday, December 11, 8:00pm Classic Albums Live: Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon
Saturday, December 12, 7:00pm Albano's Nutcracker
Sunday, December 13, 2:00pm Albano's Nutcracker
Saturday, December 12, 8:00pm Lynda Carter
Sunday, December 13, 7:00pm Chris Young
Monday, December 14, 7:00pm Rock 4 XMAS
Tuesday, December 15, 7:00pm Rockin the Paradise Styx Tribute
Wednesday, December 16, 7:00pm Dr. K's Motown Revue
Thursday, December 17, 7:30pm Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra - Keith Lockhart, Conductor
Friday, December 18, 7:00pm Rob Thomas special guests OneRepublic & Carolina Liar
Friday, December 18, 8:00pm Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's Wild & Swingin' Holiday Part
Saturday, December 19, 8:00pm Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's Wild & Swingin' Holiday Party
Sunday, December 20, 7:00pm David Foster & The Mohegan Sun All-Stars
Tuesday, December 22, 7:00pm Souled Out
Wednesday, December 23rd - 7:00pm The Jumpers Orchestra Rockin & Swinging Christmas Spectacular
Thursday, December 24, 7:00pm The Cartells
Friday, December 25, 8:00pm Lennon Live
Saturday, December 26, 8:00pm Esteban
Saturday, December 26, 8:00pm Joby Rogers is the Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience
Sunday, December 27, 7:00pm Ernie and the Automatics
Monday, December 28, 7:00pm Desiree Bassett
Tuesday, December 29, 7:00pm Kobra Kai
Wednesday, December 30, 8:00pm Apache Stone with Michael Lombardi of Rescue Me
Thursday, December 31, 9:00pm J Geils Band
Thursday, December 31, 9:00pm Nite Shift
Thursday, December 31, 11:00pm Nite Shift
http://www.mohegansun.com/

MGM Grand at Foxwoods - Ledyard, CT
Friday, December 4, 8:00pm 7th Annual Brian Setzer Orchestra Christmas Rocks!
Saturday, December 5, 8:00pm Lionel Richie in Concert
Saturday, December 12, 8:00pm An Evening with Bill Engvall
Thursday, December 17th, 8:00pm David Archuleta - "Christmas from the Heart"
Friday, December 18th, 8:00pmLisa Lampanelli
http://www.mgmatfoxwoods.com/

Foxwoods - Ledyard, CT
November 27 - January 3 - Legends in Concert Holiday Show
http://www.foxwoods.com/

Sports in December

Hartford Wolfpack Home Games
Friday, December 11, Wolf Pack vs. Portland Pirates at 7:00pm
Saturday, December 12, Wolf Pack vs. Bridgeport Sound Tigers at 7:00pm
Sunday, December 13, Wolf Pack vs. Albany River Rats at 4:00pm
Friday, December 18, Wolf Pack vs. Toronto Marlies at 7:00pm
Saturday, December 19, Wolf Pack vs. Hamilton Bulldogs at 7:00pm
Wednesday, December30, Wolf Pack vs. Springfield Falcons at 7:00pm
Box Office: 860-525-4500
http://www.hartfordwolfpack.com/

Bridgeport Sound Tigers Home Games
Wednesday, December 2, Sound Tigers vs. Providence at 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 5, Sound Tigers vs. Springfield at 7:00 PM
Tuesday, December 15, Sound Tigers vs. Portland at 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 20, Sound Tigers vs. Springfield at 4:00 PM Teddy Bear Toss
Saturday, December 26, Sound Tigers vs. Hartford at 7:00 PM
Box Office: 203-334-GOAL
http://www.soundtigers.com/

UConn Women's Basketball Home Games
Thursday, December 3, UConn Women vs. Vermont (Gampel Pavilion) 7:30 pm
Thursday, December 10, UConn Women vs. Hartford (XL Center) 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 20, UConn Women vs. Iona (Gampel Pavilion) 6:00 pm
Wednesday, December 23, UConn Women vs. Stanford (XL Center) 5:30 pm
XL CenterBox Office: 860-525-4500
http://www.uconnhuskies.com/

UConn Men's Basketball Home Games
Wednesday, December 2, UConn Men vs. Boston University (XL Center) 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 6, UConn Men vs. Harvard (Gampel Pavilion) 1:00 pm
Sunday, December 20, UConn Men vs. Central Florida (XL Center) 1:00 pm
Tuesday, December 22, UConn Men vs. Maine (XL Center) 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 27, UConn Men vs. Iona (XL Center) 2:00 pm
XL CenterBox Office: 860-525-4500
http://www.uconnhuskies.com/

UCONN vs. South Florida Home Games
Final game of the season for the UConn Husky football team.
Saturday, December 5, 12pm – 3pm
Rentschler Field, East Hartford, CT (map)
Phone: 1-877-AT-UCONN
www.uconnhuskies.com/MainLinks/tickets/tickets.html

A Message From Your Thanksgiving Turkey!

2009-11-25T09:50:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving from This Is Connecticut!

Linzi & Bill

Connecticut Concert Ballet presents The NUTCRACKER

2009-11-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

Magical holiday dreams really do come true! A giant Christmas tree that grows before your eyes, valiant toy soldiers, twirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and visions of sugarplums…All this and more come to life on stage in this timeless production. Come experience the magic! An affordable holiday event not to be missed and a 35 year Connecticut tradition. This production will highlight Connecticut Concert Ballet's talented local students alongside professional dancers from the Island Moving Company, Newport RI's resident dance company, a collaborative relationship that goes back 8 years.

Manchester High School, 134 Middle Turnpike East, Manchester, CT

Saturday, December 5th at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, December 6th at 2:00 p.m.

Windsor High School, 50 Sage Park Road, Windsor, CT

Saturday, December 12th at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, December 13th at 2:00 p.m.

Ticket Information: Preferred Front & Center Seats $28, General Admission $22, Students/Seniors $15, ages 4 and under $10. Tickets are available by phone (860) 418-7294 and online at http://www.connecticutnutcracker.com/, also at Dance Village 171 Spencer St, Manchester.

Stamford Downtown Thanksgiving Parade

2009-11-17T21:33:00.002-05:00

Florence Griswold Museum Free Admission to New London County Residents

2009-11-17T20:50:00.002-05:00

New London County residents can enjoy all the Museum has to offer for free! Be the first to see Magic of Christmas celebration, tour the art exhibitions and historic house, and enjoy a hands-on project.

Free admission sponsored by the Community Foundation of Southeastern Connecticut.

Saturday, November 21, 10am-5pm
Sunday, November 22, 1-5pm
Admission FREE to residents of New London County

Florence Griswold Museum

96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT
Phone: 860-434-5542
http://www.florencegriswoldmuseum.org/

Connecticut Tree Spruces Up Rockefeller Center

2009-11-11T10:10:00.001-05:00

The Associated Press is reporting that a 76-foot Norway spruce on a Connecticut school teacher's property was picked as this year's Christmas tree for New York's Rockefeller Center.

Crews are planing to cut down the 10-ton tree this morning at Maria Corti's home in Easton, about 90 minutes northeast of Manhattan.

"The tree, which is 40 feet in diameter, will be hoisted by a crane onto a trailer and transported to the Big Apple. It'll be put in place at the center Thursday." Reports AP.

It's among several recent Rockefeller Center trees that have come from Connecticut. Some other Norway spruces that ended up there had their roots in Shelton, Ridgefield, Manchester and Killingworth.

Foodshare Turkey and a Twenty Drive November 2009

2009-11-03T19:30:00.001-05:00

Foodshare’s Annual “Turkey and a Twenty” drive is back! Last year generous supporters donated 16,803 turkeys for distribution to hungry families in central Connecticut. This included a 1,000 turkey challenge that was met by over 100 new donor groups, each giving 10 or more turkeys and $200 for area families in need.

This holiday season Foodshare aree doubling efforts to match the 30% increase in need since 2008. The new goal is 20 Turkeys and 20 Twenties from 100 participating teams. If we meet this goal, Foodshare's anonymous donor will match these efforts with 1,000 turkeys.

Turkey and a Twenty drop off locations:
http://site.foodshare.org/site/PageServer?pagename=TurkeyandaTwenty1

Avon
Big Y Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Miller Foods Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Bloomfield
Geissler's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Canton
Discount Foods Outlet Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Shaw's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Coventry
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8:30am-8pm); Sundays (8:30am-5pm)

Farmington
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sundays (8:30am-6pm)

Glastonbury
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sundays (8:30am-6pm)
Stop & Shop Sunday, Nov. 22 (1pm-3pm)

Granby
Geissler's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Stop & Shop Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Hartford
Turkey Tuesday - Bank of America Tuesday, Nov. 17 (5:30am-10am)
Gordon Bonetti's Florist Monday - Friday (9am-5pm); Saturday, Nov. 21
(9am-1pm)

Hebron
Ted's Supermarket Monday - Thursday (8am-8pm); Friday (8am-8:30pm); Saturday
(8am-8pm); Sunday (8am-6pm)

Manchester
Big Y Friday, Nov. 13 (Time TBD). Hosted by Country 92.5 and Big Y.
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sunday (8:30am-6pm)

Rocky Hill
Gordon Bonetti's Florist Monday - Friday (9am-5pm); Saturday (9am-1pm)
West Side Market Place Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sunday (8am-8pm)

Simsbury
Andy's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Fitzgerald's Foods Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Kane's Market Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Stop & Shop Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

South Windsor
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (10am-9pm); Sunday (10am-6pm)

Suffield
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sunday (8:30am-6pm)

West Hartford
Waldbaum's Super Foodmart Monday - Saturday(7am-10pm); Sunday (7am-9pm)
Town Center Building Monday, Nov. 23 (10am-4pm)

Wethersfield
Eblens Monday, Nov. 23 (6am-2pm). Sponsored by Aetna Better Health and Hot
93.7.

For more information on dates, times and locations of various collection sites or events, visit Foodshare’s website at http://www.foodshare.org/ or call (860) 286-9999.

30+ Fun & Fabulous Things to do in Connecticut November 2009

2009-11-02T21:10:00.001-05:00

Follow ThisIsCT.net on Twitter to see the latest things to do weekends in Connecticut. November events are listed by date, with sports at the bottom. Feedback please email me linzi @thisisct.net or make a note in the comments area. More to come for this list!

The Science of Time Travel is Explored at the Connecticut Science Center, Hartford, CT
Wednesday 11/4/09 from 6pm – 9pm
On Wednesday, November 4 at 6:00 PM, Dr. Mallett will be at the Connecticut Science Center in downtown Hartford, to present his intriguing theory and open the discussion of traveling in time to all. 7 PM presentation, followed by a book signing
$25/$15 for Premier Members.
Reservations: (860) 520-2154.
http://www.ctsciencecenter.org/

Connecticut International Auto Show at the Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford, CT
The Connecticut International Auto Show is the premier showcase of the best of the newest model year import and domestic vehicles -- cars, vans, crossovers, light trucks and sport utilities. With the best car lines under one roof, it's so easy to compare prices, features and options, saving both time and money. Learn about the latest technologies being used for fuel efficiency. Sit in the cars, pop the hoods, inspect the trunks, kick the tires!
Friday 11/06/09 to Sunday 11/08/09
Friday 11am - 9pm
Saturday 11am - 9pm
Sunday 11am - 5pm
Tickets: Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children under 6 are FREE,
Senior discount Friday ONLY $2.00 off (65+ years)
CT Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: (860) 249-6000
http://www.ctconventions.com/

The 30th Annual Fall Home Show
If you're planning to do ANYTHING to your home in the future, this is the home show you can't afford to miss. No matter what you have in mind for home improvements, you'll find the right products and the best companies at The Fall Home Show, one of the largest home shows in the
Northeast.
Friday 11/06/09 to Sunday 11/08/09
Friday, 5pm to 9pm
Saturday, 10am to 9pm
Sunday, 10am to 6pm
Tickets:$8 Adult Admission
$7 Seniors Admission, Children under 12 are FREE
Connecticut Expo Center, 265 Reverend Moody Overpass, Hartford, CT 06120
http://www.ctexpocenter.com/enter.com/

Connecticut Day of Caring & Compassion 2009
15 fire stations around Connecticut will serve as collection centers for donations of non-perishable food to help replenish the state’s two main food pantries on the statewide “Day of Caring & Compassion” Saturday, November 7. “November 7 will be a one-day push to fill – and I mean really fill – the shelves of Foodshare and Connecticut Food Bank ahead of the coming holidays,” Governor Rell said at a news conference at the Torrington Fire Department. “Working with fire departments in every corner of the state, our goal is to collect as much non-perishable food as possible. Foodshare and the Connecticut Food Bank will organize pick-ups from the fire stations later in the day – and from there it will go to food pantries and people in need all across Connecticut.
Saturday 11/7/09 All day event
For a list of participating fire stations please visit:
http://www.thisisct.net/2009/10/connecticut-day-of-caring-compassion.html

Day out with Thomas at the Essex Steam Train, Essex, CT
There are two chances this month to ride the rails for 25 minutes with a full-size Thomas The Tank Engine. Meet controller Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy storytelling, live music, play with lego and more. Don't miss this exciting experience.
Saturday 11/7/09 - Sunday 11/8/09 from 9am to 4pm and
Saturday 11/14/09 - Sunday 11/15/09 from 9am to 4pm
Tickets are $18 for ages 2 and up. Advance purchase is recommended.
Ticket sales are final. Events are rain or shine.
Essex Steam Train, One Railroad Avenue, Essex, CT 06426
http://www.essexsteamtrain.com/dowt2009/dowt_main.html

New Haven Restaurant Week

Featuring prix fixe lunch and dinner menus at 29 of downtown’s award-winning and internationally diverse restaurants. For a list of participating restaurants and menus please visit the website listed below.
Sunday 11/8/09 - Friday 11/13/09
http://www.infonewhaven.com/restaurantweek

10th Annual CT Veterans Day Parade!!
The Connecticut Veterans Day Parade is attended by 25,000 to 40,000 spectators, includes 40 Veterans groups, 25 bands, and over 3,500 marchers from 96 units representing 49 towns. This is the largest Veterans Day Parade in New England, and one of the largest in the country.
Sunday 11/8/2009 at 1pm – 2pm
Main Street, (Downtown) Hartford, CT
http://www.ctveteransdayparade.com/

Star Wars in Concert
Narrated live by Anthony Daniels (the actor who portrayed C-3PO in all six films), the production features the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and choir, accompanied by specially edited footage from the films displayed on a three-story-tall, high-definition LED super-screen – one of the largest ever put on tour. The live music and film elements are synchronized in order to create a full multi-media, one-of-kind Star Wars experience.
Tuesday 11/10/2009 at 7:30 pm
Ticket Prices: $75, $55 & $35
http://www.arenaatharboryard.com/

Veterans Day Observation
Come remember our veterans at a Candlelight Vigil on Wednesday, November 11, 2009. Festivities will begin at 12:00 noon on the Liberty Green (downtown Niantic). In the event of rain, the vigil will move to the American Legion facility on York Ave.
Wednesday 11/11/09 at 12pm
Corner of Main St. and Pennsylvania Ave., Downtown Niantic,
http://www.discovereastlyme.com/

America Recycles Day
America Recycles Day. Enjoy the "Recycle Relay Game," learn fun and fascinating environmental facts about recycling, and make crafts from recycled materials. Sign a pledge to recycle and be automatically entered into the America Recycles Day national contest to win a trip to Alaska or a 24-speed Trex bicycle.
Thursday - 11/12/09 - 12pm - 3pm
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610
http://www.beardsleyzoo.com/
Find other events for America Recycles Day: http://www.americarecyclesday.org/

Walmart Presents: MILEY CYRUS 2009 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
Miley Cyrus announced her 2009 North American Tour, presented by Walmart, and promoted by AEG Live. The 45-show tour, featuring special guest Metro Station, launches September 14, 2009 in Portland, OR and will play in several major cities including Los Angeles, New York City,
Dallas, Chicago, New Orleans and more before wrapping in Miami on December 2nd. The North American tour will feature special guest Metro Station Miley will be making her stop at the XL Center on November 12, 2009.
Thursday 11/12/2009 at 7pm
Tickets: $79.50,$59.50,$ 39.50
http://www.xlcenter.com/

Stay overnight at Mystic Aquarium - Sleep with the Fishes
Ever wonder what Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration’s animals do at night? Find out on November 13, during the aquarium’s Family Overnight – now featuring an aquarium mystery to solve. A bucket of fish is missing, with only a puddle of water, footprints, fingerprints and some feathers left behind as evidence. Using water sampling, fingerprint and footprint identification methods and feather samples, kids will determine who is responsible for the disappearance of the fish. Guests will also play games and tour the exhibits. Afterward, pick a place to sleep next to the circling sharks, colorful clownfish or even the elusive octopus. Continental breakfast is provided the next morning. Crafts and activities are geared toward children ages 5 to 12. Children must be at least 5 years old and accompanied by a paid adult. Guests should bring a sleeping bag, pillow and flashlight. Preregistration is required.
Friday 11/13/09 Overnight
Cost: Members: $50 adult, $40 child; Non-members: $60 adult, $50 child
http://www.mysticaquarium.org/visit/calendar/details/31-family-overnight

Sugarloaf Craft Festival at the Connecticut Expo Center, Hartford, CT
Art enthusiasts from all over Hartford travel to Sugarloaf’s Craft Festivals at the Connecticut Expo Center. Our Hartford craft festival is one of the largest craft shows in the state. There’s simply no other event quite like a Sugarloaf show. You’ll find fine art and contemporary crafts from the nation’s most talented artists!
Friday 11/13/09 - Sunday 11/15/09
Connecticut Expo Center, 265 Reverend Moody Overpass, Hartford, CT 06120
http://www.sugarloafcrafts.com/festivals/hartford/fall/index.html
http://www.ctexpocenter.com/

Mashantucket Pequot Honoring Nations
In recognition of Veterans Day, we acknowledge and thank Mashantucket Pequot and other Native veterans for their military service. Buddy Gwin (Hidatsa/Mandan) is master of ceremonies with guest speakers including Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Elder and Pequot War Chief Stan Harris. Kenny Merrick (Mandan/Dakota) of Mystic River Singers provides honoring songs on the hand drum. Free with Museum admission and free to Museum members.
Saturday 11/14/09 from 12 pm–2 pm
http://www.pequotmuseum.org/

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA at the XL Center, Hartford CT
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is ready to begin their 2009 Winter Tour. On November 14 2009, TSO will perform two shows at the XL Center!
Saturday 11/14/09 at 3pm and 8pm
http://www.xlcenter.com/

24th Annual Fine American Craftsman Show
Wilton Historical Society presents its 24th Annual Fine American Craftsman Show
Featuring America¹s finest juried artisans and artists showcasing their wares and fine arts ‹ traditional and contemporary ‹ American folk art, furniture, pottery, paintings, hooked and painted rugs, hand-made jewelry, wood carvings, lamps, and more. These highly skilled artists look to Wilton as a place to introduce their latest passionate creations. Don't miss the Wilton Historical Society's biggest fundraiser of the year.
Saturday 11/14/09 from 10am - 5pm
Sunday 11/15/09 from 10am - 5pm
Tickets: $10 Non WHS Memebers, $8 Members
Wilton High School Field House, 395 Danbury Road (Route 7), Wilton, CT
For information and discount tickets, visit
http://www.wiltonhistorical.org/craftsmanshow

It's Satire - The Connecticut Forum
Some days the news is so bad we just have to laugh. We need to laugh! And judging by the popularity of late night television news programs and video spoofs that poke fun at everything from global politics to national crises to the latest celebrity faux pas, we are increasingly turning to parody and satire to make sense of it all. Come join us for an unforgettably funny and ridiculously stimulating evening of laughter and relief. Featuring Jason Alexander, aka Seinfeld's George Costanza and The Daily Show's Samantha Bee. Other panelists to be announced.
Saturday 11/14/09 at 8pm
he William H. Mortensen Hall, Saturday The Bushnell Theater, Hartford, CT
Ticket Prices: For ticket prices and information please call The Connecticut Forum at 860-509-0909 or visit:
http://www.ctforum.org/

Hartford Open Studio Weekend
pen Studio Weekend is a creative showcase for local artists held annually and organized by Artists in Real Time. Artists enjoy two days to promote their name, get acquainted with potential buyers and sell their work. Visitors enjoy the opportunity to meet dozens of artists at studios, galleries and creative spaces in and around Hartford to browse and buy locally created art.
Saturday 11/14/09 from 11am - 5pm
Sunday 11/15/09 from 11am - 5pm
For a list of participating studios click here:
http://openstudiohartford.com/participating-artist

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTHOUSES
Now in its eighth year, beautiful, illuminated lighthouses built by talented regional artists and crafters will greet Aquarium visitors around every turn. Ticket holders can enjoy their favorite Aquarium animals—like the seals, otters, sharks and sea turtles—then join in the Holiday celebration by casting their votes to determine this year's Festival winners.
Maritime Aquarium, Norwalk, CT
November 14, 2006 through January 18, 2010
http://www.maritimeaquarium.org/

LEGO® KidsFest at the Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford, CT
LEGO® KidsFest is a wildly energetic 3-day show filled with interactive, creative and educational activities for every family. Attractions include: life-sized and miniature LEGO models: build, race and play booths; live stage demonstrations; and so much more.
Friday 11/20/09 from 4pm – 7pm - Sunday 11/22/09
Tickets: Adults; $12.00, Seniors: $10.00, Kids: $8.00
CT Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: (860) 249-6000
http://www.ctconventions.com/
http://www.legokidsfest.com/

2nd Annual Spirits of Sharing (Wine & Beer Tasting and Silent Auction)
Come fill a glass to help fill our Care & Share Food Pantry at the Spirits of Sharing Wine & Beer Tasting and Silent Auction. Hot and cold hors d'oeuvres will be served as well as a variety of fine wines and beers. A keepsake wine glass will also be provide to each person. So come toast in the upcoming holiday season and help benefit the local Care & Share organization.
Tickets: $25.
Smith's Acres, 4 West Main Street, Niantic, CT
For additional information, contact: Smith Acres @ 691-0528
Friday 11/20/09 from 7pm - 9pm
http://www.discovereastlyme.com/

Annual Giant Balloon Inflation Party, Stamford, CT
One of the largest helium balloon parades in the country, featuring everyone’s favorite giant balloon characters, award winning marching bands and fabulous floats. Fun for the whole family. UBS Parade Spectacular presented by Stamford Town Center and The Advocate
Sunday 11/22/09. 12 noon step-off
Parade Route: Summer to Broad to Atlantic
http://www.stamford-downtown.com/

73rd Annual Manchester Road Race
An exciting 4.75 mile race with over 14,000 runners. Second oldest road race in the East, attracting world-class runners along with some who dress in colorful costumes. Bands every half mile, and prizes. TV coverage will be on Fox 61 news.
Thursday 11/26/09 at 10am
Main Street, Manchester, CT
Thursday, November 23rd, race commences at 10:00 am
http://www.manchesterroadrace.com/

Backstage tour of the Maritime Aquarium of Norwalk
Get a rare chance to feed the sharks and rays while you enjoy a “backstage” visit to The Maritime Aquarium during upcoming Behind-the-Scenes Tours. Operating the aquarium is an complicated production that must satisfy 1,000 animals with varying requirements for food, water temperatures and salinities, and more. See how it’s all done when you visit our jellyfish “nursery” and the “fish kitchen,” where meals for our residents are prepared.We’ll go above the Open Ocean exhibit, where you can look down on the sharks in their 110,000-gallon tank ... and even toss in some fish for them to eat! And feel the tickle as you hand-feed the cow-nosed rays! Participants must be 10 years and older. Anyone under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday 11/28/09 at 8:15am
Tours cost $30 for non-members ($20 for Aquarium members) and include Aquarium admission.
For reservations, call The Maritime Aquarium at 203-852-0700, ext. 2206. Space is limited.
The Maritime Aquarium, 10 North Water Street. Norwalk. CT 06854
http://www.maritimeaquarium.org/guided_tours.html

Niantic’s 6th Annual Holiday Stroll
The East Lyme villages of Niantic and Flanders are hosting the 6th Annual Holiday Stroll! This family-friendly day features horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers along the quaint shop-lined streets, sips of hot cider and cocoa, and the arrival of Santa on a shiny red fire truck to the town green in time for a tree lighting ceremony at 5:00 pm on Liberty Green in the heart of Niantic Village. Our Museum will launch the week-long town-wide "Ornament Hunt"! Keep track of all the merchants in town displaying the special Children’s Museum Purple Ornament. With your list of merchants complete, visit the Museum and collect a special prize.
Saturday 11/28/09 from 3pm - 8pm
http://www.discovereastlyme.com/

Disney Live! Rockin Road Show at the XL Center, Hartford CT
Get ready to dim the lights and raise the curtain – Mickey Mouse is in the house and he’s setting the stage for fun - just for you! But first he’ll need to find some amazing acts to put in his show. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Donald all head off on an adventure and find some great friends to help them out. You’ll get to sing along to cool songs, jump out of your seat to dance to the beat and laugh out loud with Buzz and Woody from Toy Story, Cinderella, Tigger, and more of your Disney friends at this show-stopping, zany, on-stage adventure coming right to your hometown!
Sunday 11/29/09 at 12:30pm and 3:30pm
Tickets: $55, $40, $26 and $15 (additional Fees may apply)
http://www.xlcenter.com/

And In Sports.....

Hartford Wolf Pack Hockey Home Games at the XL Center, Hartford CT
Friday 11/13/09 at 7pm Hartford Wolf Pack vs. Manchester Monarchs *First 3,000 fans receive a FREE Wolf Pack T-Shirt or Ticket! Guida’s Family Value Night
Wednesday 11/18/09 at 7pm Hartford Wolf Pack vs. Binghamton Senators
Thursday 11/19/09 at 7pm Hartford Wolf Pack vs. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
Friday 11/27/09 at 7pm Hartford Wolf Pack vs. Portland Pirates
Saturday 11/28/09 at 7pm Hartford Wolf Pack vs. Providence Bruins
At the XL Center, Hartford, CT
http://www.hartfordwolfpack.com/

Bridgeport Sound Tigers Hockey Home Games at Arena at Harbor Yard, Bridgeport, CT
Wednesday 11/4/09 at 11am Bridgeport Sound Tigers vs. Adirondack Cool Fun 101day
Saturday 11/7/09 at 7pm Bridgeport Sound Tigers vs. Hartford Wolf Pack
Sunday 11/8/09 at 4pm Bridgeport Sound Tigers vs. Lowell Salute to Armed Forces day
Sunday 11/15/09 at 4pm Bridgeport Sound Tigers vs. Portland Bridgeport Hockey Card Set #1 day
Wednesday 11/25/09 at 7pm Bridgeport Sound Tigers vs. Manchester
Friday 11/27/09 at 7pm Bridgeport Sound Tigers vs. Lowell Scout Night
Sunday 11/29/09 at 3pm Bridgeport Sound Tigers vs. Hartford Wolf Pack
At Arena at Harbor Yard, Bridgeport, CT
http://www.soundtigers.com/

Basketball: University of Connecticut Women's Team Home Games
Thursday 11/5/09 at 7:30 pm UConn Women vs. Saint Rose (Exh) at at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
Monday 11/9/09 at 7pm UConn Women vs. Vanguard (Exh) at the XL Center, Hartford, CT
Saturday 11/14/2009 at 2pm UConn Women vs. Northeastern at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
Friday 11/27/2009 at 7:30pm UConn Women vs. Hofstra at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
Saturday 11/28/2009 at 7:30pm UConn Women vs. Richmond at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
Sunday 11/29/2009 at 7pm UConn Women vs. Clemson at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
http://www.uconnhuskies.com/

Basketball: University of Connecticut Men's Team Home Games
Wednesday 11/4/09 at 7pm UConn Men vs. AIC (exhib.) at the XL Center, Hartford, CT
Sunday 11/8/09 at 1pm UConn Men vs. Umass Lowell (exhib.) at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
Friday 11/13/2009 at 7:30pm UConn Men vs. William & Mary at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
Monday 11/16/2009 at 9pm UConn Men vs. Colgate at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
Tuesday 11/17/2009 at 7pm UConn Men vs. Yale or Hofstra at Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, CT
http://www.uconnhuskies.com/

Basketball: Connecticut 6 Classic At Arena at Harbor Yard, Bridgeport, CT
State college basketball fans will converge on the city of Bridgeport on November 13 for the first Connecticut 6 Classic, a men’s basketball tripleheader. The Classic will include Central Connecticut State University, Fairfield University, University of Hartford, Quinnipiac University, Sacred Heart University, and Yale University. The tripleheader will include three games with Sacred Heart playing Yale in the first game, followed by a match up between Fairfield and Central Connecticut in game two. The night concludes when Hartford and Quinnipiac take the court for the third contest.
Game 1: Sacred Heart v. Yale at 5:30pm
Game 2: Fairfield v. Central at 7:30pm
Game 3: Hartford v. Quinnipiac at 9:30pm
Ticket Prices: $5.00 – 12 and younger, $12.00 – 13 and older
http://www.arenaatharboryard.com/

Football at Rentschler Field, East Hartford, CT
Friday 11/6/09 at 6pm East Hartford High vs. Conard High
Thursday 11/12/09 at 7pm UFL New York vs. Florida
Saturday 11/28/09 at 12pm UCONN vs. Syracuse
http://www.rentschlerfield.com/

Wrestling: WWE Presents SMACKDOWN & ECW!
"The Deadman" Undertaker takes on CM Punk and "The Animal" Batista in a Triple Threat Match for the World Heavyweight Championship! Also see your favorite WWE Superstars including Chris Jericho, Rey Mysterio, Matt Hardy, Kane, Finlay, Christian, Tommy Dreamer, John Morrison and many more!
Tuesday 11/24/09 at 6:45pm
Ticket Prices: $60.25, $40.25, $30.25, $20.25 and $15.25
http://www.arenaatharboryard.com/

Fight Night: CHAD DAWSON VS GLEN JOHNSON at the XL Center, Hartford CT
World Championship boxing returns to Hartford for the first time in 20 years! The long awaited and eagerly anticipated rematch between undefeated two-time light heavyweight champion and Connecticut’s favorite son, CHAD DAWSON, and former world champion GLEN JOHNSON is on. Promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, in association with DiBella Entertainment and Seminole Warriors Boxing, Dawson-Johnson II will be broadcast live on HBO World Championship Boxing, Saturday, November 7, beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/ 6:30 p.m. PT, from the XL Center.
http://www.xlcenter.com/

24th Annual Fine American Craftsman Show

2009-11-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

Wilton Historical Society presents its 24th Annual Fine American Craftsman Show

Featuring America¹s finest juried artisans and artists showcasing their wares and fine arts ‹ traditional and contemporary ‹ American folk art, furniture, pottery, paintings, hooked and painted rugs, hand-made jewelry, wood carvings, lamps, and more. These highly skilled artists look to Wilton as a place to introduce their latest passionate creations. Don't miss the Wilton Historical Society's biggest fundraiser of the year.

Saturday, November 14th, 10am - 5pm
Sunday, November 15th, 10am - 5pm
Tickets: $10 Non WHS Memebers, $8 Members

Wilton High School Field House
395 Danbury Road (Route 7)
Wilton, CT

For information and discount tickets, visit
www.wiltonhistorical.org/craftsmanshow

Managed by Barn Star Productions. 845-876-06016

State Vehicle Auction Saturday Morning

2009-10-30T10:38:00.001-04:00

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that a State Vehicle Auction will be held on Saturday, October 31 at 60 State Street, Wethersfield. Inspection of auction vehicles is from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

A recent state vehicle auction resulted in 223 cars being sold, putting $510,800 back into the state's general fund. In August, Governor Rell announced the state had reduced its fleet of cars and trucks by more than 20 percent, saving more than $1 million and exceeding the goal she set through an Executive Order issued this past February.

"I continue to do everything in my authority to trim the cost and size of state government," Governor Rell said. "The fiscal reality is that the state does not need all these vehicles. We will continue to find more efficient ways to conduct the state's business."

For a full listing of vehicles, including photos, visit http://www.das.state.ct.us/Surplus/display_auctionv.asp .

Directions to the auction: I-91, Exit 26, follow auction signs to the Wethersfield DMV.

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The Science of Time Travel is Explored at the Connecticut Science Center

2009-10-28T13:20:00.001-04:00

The Science of Time Travel…It’s About Time! (DeLorean not included)

Almost 25 years ago, the American public was captivated by a teenager who traveled in time, via a stylish DeLorean sports car. The 1985 film “Back to the Future”, starring Michael J. Fox, told the sometimes comical story of a teenager boy’s encounter with time travel based on the findings of his counterpart, a mad scientist like character named “Doc”. Meet the “Real Doc” who uses Real Science.

Dr. Ronald Mallett, Professor of Theoretical Relativity at the University of Connecticut believes he has discovered the basic equations for a working time machine. His book, Time Traveler: A Scientist’s Personal Mission to Make Time Travel a Reality is now being made into a movie, to be directed by Spike Lee.

Driven by the death of his father and reading H G Wells’s classic novel The Time Machine a year later, a young Ron Mallett sought out to figure out a way to return to 1955 to be at his father’s side once more. Fast forward to 2002 and you find an intellectual Dr. Mallett presenting his findings to fifty of the world’s leading physicists at The International Association for Relative Dynamics Third Biennial Conference at Howard University. The message: “The 21st Century will herald the dawn of the time machine”

Time Travel has been a dream for humankind for a long time. Einstein’s theory of relativity encompasses certain forms of theoretical time travel. If you travel through outer space near the speed of light, chances are time has passed much quicker for those living on Earth than it would for the one traveling – essentially time travel.

On Wednesday, November 4 at 6:00 PM, Dr. Mallett will be at the Connecticut Science Center in downtown Hartford, to present his intriguing theory and open the discussion of traveling in time to all.

Time Traveler Event:
Wednesday, November 4 at the Connecticut Science Center : 6:00 PM
6 PM reception with cash bar, 7 PM presentation, followed by a book signing
$25/$15 for Premier Members.
Reservations: (860) 520-2154.
http://www.ctsciencecenter.org/

CT Veterans Day Parade

2009-10-26T21:00:00.001-04:00

10th Annual Connecticut Veterans Day Parade
Sunday, November 8, 2009 at 1pm
Downtown Hartford
Trinity - Asylum - Main Streets

The Connecticut Veterans Day Parade is attended by 25,000 to 40,000 spectators, includes 40 Veterans groups, 25 bands, and over 3,500 marchers from 96 units representing 49 towns. This is the largest Veterans Day Parade in New England, and one of the largest in the country.
http://www.ctveteransdayparade.com/

Mashantucket Pequot Honoring Nations
In recognition of Veterans Day, we acknowledge and thank Mashantucket Pequot and other Native veterans for their military service. Buddy Gwin (Hidatsa/Mandan) is master of ceremonies with guest speakers including Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Elder and Pequot War Chief Stan Harris. Kenny Merrick (Mandan/Dakota) of Mystic River Singers provides honoring songs on the hand drum. Free with Museum admission and free to Museum members.
Saturday, Nov. 14, 12 pm–2 pm
http://www.pequotmuseum.org/

How To Add Events To Our Calendar

2009-10-14T17:45:00.000-04:00

Calling all events promoters! Submit your events to the ThisIsCT.net calendar. How to do so? Simply email me linzi @ thisisct.net Please put the words "Events for Calendar" in the subject line.

Or DM me on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/this_is_ct

What we need from you:

The event title, a brief description, admission prices if applicable, contact phone if applicable, location (address), and website URL if available. You can also attach an image if you have one I can use.

Thank you!

Man Vs. Food visits Newington

2009-10-13T11:11:00.004-04:00

Travel Channel's Adam Richman from Man v Food will be filming at Doogie's Restaurant, Newington http://www.doogieshotdogs.com/ on Friday from 4:30pm - 7:30pm.

Update (11/4/2009) Doogies is having a premiere party for the episode of Man v Food filmed at the restaurant on December 16th at 10:00pm. The airdate of the episode on the Travel Channel.

Go show your support!

Connecticut Day of Caring & Compassion 2009

2009-10-10T20:50:00.003-04:00

Governor M. Jodi Rell announced yesterday a statewide “Day of Caring & Compassion” will be held on Saturday, November 7, when 15 fire stations around Connecticut will serve as collection centers for donations of non-perishable food to help replenish the state’s two main food pantries.
“November 7 will be a one-day push to fill – and I mean really fill – the shelves of Foodshare and Connecticut Food Bank ahead of the coming holidays,” Governor Rell said at a news conference at the Torrington Fire Department. “Working with fire departments in every corner of the state, our goal is to collect as much non-perishable food as possible. Foodshare and the Connecticut Food Bank will organize pick-ups from the fire stations later in the day – and from there it will go to food pantries and people in need all across Connecticut.

“It is important to be clear that this is a collection of non-perishable food – things like pasta, peanut butter, canned goods and so on,” the Governor said. “The firefighters will not be collecting cash or non-food items. But our hope is that the generous people of Connecticut will – once again – open their hearts to help feed people in need this fall and winter. The world-wide economic slump continues to take a brutal toll on Connecticut and the effects are deeper than we have seen in years. So I am making a special request for help, because if you are in a position to give, your help is needed more than ever.”

Governor Rell noted that while economists are beginning to see some small signs of improvement, far too many Connecticut families are still feeling the effects of layoffs, salary cutbacks, home foreclosures and other financial stresses.

“As more of our Connecticut neighbors are falling into hard times because of the prolonged recession, it’s incumbent on those of us who can help to do so,” said Nancy L. Carrington, Executive Director of the Connecticut Food Bank. “This Connecticut Day of Caring & Compassion is one way you can help meet the growing need in our communities. Statewide, the demand for food assistance has grown by more than 20 percent from the previous year – and many men, women and children are seeking food assistance for the first time.”

Gloria J. McAdam, President and CEO of Connecticut Foodshare, added: “The number of people seeking help at local food pantries in the Hartford area has increased by 30 percent just over last year. Many are in this position for the first time. Although they were donors in the past, they now find themselves on the other end of spectrum, asking for help, instead of being able to give it.”

Governor Rell said the Connecticut Day of Caring & Compassion is just one of several efforts under way to help provide assistance to families in need. Earlier this week, the Governor announced the start of the annual Operation ELF – an acronym for Embracing Lonely Families – which provides gifts, gift cards and other necessities for families of deployed troops from Connecticut. In the coming weeks the Governor will also launch the annual Governor’s Care & Share drive, a collection among state employees to help needy residents.

“The statewide Day of Caring & Compassion on November 7 is a chance for everyone in the state to make a difference,” Governor Rell said. “It is really a chance for the generous people of our state to shine – and I know they will once again rise to the occasion.”

Connecticut Day of Caring & Compassion 2009

Participating Fire Stations

BERLIN
Kensington Fire House
880 Farmington Avenue

DANBURY
19 New Street

ENFIELD
200 Phoenix Avenue

FAIRFIELD
140 Reef Road

MIDDLETOWN
169 Cross Street

NORTH WINDHAM
603 Boston Post Road

NORWICH
East Great Plain Volunteer Station
488 New London Turnpike

OLD SAYBROOK
310 Main Street

TORRINGTON
111 Water Street

VERNON
720 Hartford Turnpike

WATERBURY
740 Highland Avenue

WEST HARTFORD
20 Brace Road

WEST HAVEN
West Shore Fire District Headquarters
860 Ocean Avenue

WESTPORT
515 Post Road East

WILLIMANTIC
13 Bank Street

Halloween Events in Connecticut

2009-10-07T17:00:00.004-04:00

Spooktacular Halloween themed events and things to do in Connecticut this October.

The Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce

Plunge into your darkest fears with Thanatophobia. The Fear of Death. Walk the dark halls of the Other Side. Wait. Did that move? Is it alive? Is it you? Conquer Thanatophobia, only at the Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce.
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October
Fridays & Saturdays: Dusk to Midnight
Sundays: Dusk to 10pm
Admission Type Adult Child
Combo Graveyard & Rides $29.99 $20.99
Haunted Graveyard Only $19.99 $13.99
Lake Compounce Rides Only $17.99 $12.99
http://www.hauntedgraveyard.com/

The Trail of Terror
Scares and fun for the whole family hailed by Fright Times Magazine as "Best Outdoor Attraction" in the country is in its 14th season in Wallingford.
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October
Wallingford, CT
General Admission $10, Speed pass $20
http://www.trailofterror.com/

Old SayBrOOk Fire Dept. 12th Annual "Haunted Hayride"
All year long, the volunteer fire department puts out fires, but during Halloween, its volunteers ignite a "blaze" of scary proportions for all to enjoy. A possessed tractor-drawn hay wagon leads visitors into the deep, dark, demented woods of Scary Old SayBrOOk. For more than 40 minutes, you will venture into the ghastly world of ghosts, goblins, and ghouls. In the eerie fog, you'll be frightened by the bone-chilling sounds of creatures of the night: Which are in front, which are behind and witch are from the great, great beyond? The Old SayBrOOk Fire Department's 12th Annual Haunted Hayride "promises again to be the most hair-raising Halloween season in the history of Old Saybrook."
Dates: Friday, Oct. 16; Saturday, Oct. 17; Thursday, Oct. 22; Friday, Oct. 23; Saturday, Oct. 24; Wednesday, Oct. 28; and Thursday, Oct. 29.
Time: Trailer Rides Start at Dusk (7 P.M.)
Fees: $10* Adults, **Children under 12 - $5.00*
Clark Memorial Field (Fireman's Field) on Elm Street, Old Saybrook, CT
http://www.oldsaybrookfire.com/

Boo! at The Bushnell
A conference to celebrate the 200th birthday of Edgar Allan Poe and to explore the evolution of the horror genre in theater, literature and film. PLUS – a special screening of The Fall of the House of Usher starring Vincent Price. Check out www.bushnell.org for a list of speakers and other NEA events. Boo! at The Bushnell is part of The Big Read – an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institue of Museum and Library Services and Arts Midwest. In partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, Sponsored by SMB Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Saturday, October 31st 2009, 10am - 5pm
Tickets: FREE
Box Office: 860-987-5900
http://www.bushnell.org/

Tales of Witchcraft and Tombstones
Everyone knows about the witchcraft trials that took place in Salem, Mass. but we hardly ever hear about what occurred right here in Connecticut. Alse Young of Windsor, the first person executed for witchcraft in New England, was sent to the gallows in Hartford, Conn. in 1647. There were many other executions in Connecticut including three in Wethersfield.
Fridays in October 10, 17, 24, and 31 at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Webb House at 211 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT 06109
http://www.webb-deane-stevens.org/

Mark Twain House Ghost Tours
THE GRAVEYARD SHIFT: Friday Night Ghost Tours of The Mark Twain House
Visitors to the Mark Twain House can experience the chills of a haunted tour, hearing of unexplained occurrences and winding up with a scary story in the little-visited basement.
Dates: Fridays in October 9, 16, 23 and 30 6pm to 9pm
Admission: $17 for adults and seniors, $15 for members, and an unlucky $13 for children 10 to 16.
For tickets call 860-280-3154.
http://www.marktwainhouse.org/

The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Live Halloween Experience
The Performing Arts Collaborative presents the hilarious, sinfully twisted Rocky Horror Show: Live Halloween Experience. Let’s do the Time Warp again at Richard O’Brien’s salute to sci-fi, horror, gender-bending and rock music, with special costumes by V. I. P.! This cast will send you into another dimension as you enter Dr. Frank-N-Furter's castle for a night of thrills and chills in this energetic and interactive production. Audience participation and costumes are encouraged and proceeds from the sale of $2 audience participation prop bags go to AIDS Project New Haven (APNH). Special performance on October 29th lets the boys and girls mix it up and it’s up to you to tell who’s who. Halloween Night tickets include the KC101 Dance Party with the cast after the show.
Dates: October 22, 23, 29, 20 & 31 at the Playwright Irish Pub & Restaurant in New Haven.
Showtime is 8:00pm and tickets range from $15 to $26 and are available online at http://www.pacshows.com/ or call (203) 376-9359.

Ride the Rails to the Dark Side
The trolley enters the station empty except for the motorman and conductor. They can be heard chuckling over the loss of another load of passengers. Your tickets are purchased and you are ready to board the trolley. The foreboding cackle of the conductor “all aboard” signals your last chance to exit. The doors are closed and the trolley departs for the unknown.
As the trolley rolls through the darkness, the conductor comments on the history of the car and trolley line. It is the longest stretch of straight track in the State, but was constructed at the price of moving an old grave yard...
at the Connecticut Trolley Museum in East Windsor
Friday 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th - 7:pm - 9:30pm
Saturday 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th - 7:pm - 9:30pm
Tickets: Adult - 15 years of age and older $10.00
Member - $5.00
Youth - 4 to 14 years of age $6.00
Member - $3.00
http://www.ceraonline.org/

The Graveyard Express
We dare you to ride the Graveyard Express at the Shoreline Trolley Museum and visit the Haunted Island trail.
Dates: Friday & Saturday nights,from 6:30pm - 9pm October 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30.
Admission: $10 per person, $8 if you come in costume.
The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River Street,East Haven, CT
http://www.bera.org/

Creepy Cocktails
Get in the Halloween "spirit" on October 22 during the first-ever Creepy Cocktails, featuring a deejay, psychic, underwater pumpkin-carving demonstrations and signature Halloween cocktails and appetizers available for purchase - all on the main floor, where fish and invertebrates live in the Aquarium's mysterious waters. Cost: $5 admission. Cash bar and food available for purchase. Reservations are required. Attendees must be 21 and older.
wwww.mysticaquarium.org

Halloween Events at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo
Hayrides at the Zoo - October 1 - November 30
Haunted Farmyard - October 17 - November 1
Boo at the Zoo - October 25
Ghost Hunter Lorraine Warren - October 16
Howl-o-ween - October 23, 24, 30, 31
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT
http://www.beardsleyzoo.org/

Nautical Nightmares: Blood of the Mutineers
A Premier Halloween Event in Connecticut.
A vengeful captain, a villainous mutineer, a witness driven mad and a jury of the damned...this autumn, join us for our Halloween production, Nautical Nightmares: Blood of the Mutineers. Search the darkened village for clues to the captain's unrest. But beware! This village is haunted by a secret that only its ghostly victims can bring to light. Tours begin nightly at 6:15 p.m and leave every 15 minutes.
Dates: October 16-18, 23-25 and 29-31
Tickets: Adult: $19, Youth (Ages 4-18): $18
Member Adult: $17, Member Youth (Ages 4-18): $16
Mystic Seaport - The Museum of America and the Sea, 75 Greenmanville Avenue, Mystic, CT
http://www.mysticseaport.org/

Lantern Light Graveyard Walk
One hour Guided Walking Tour at dusk led by ghost hunter Donna Kent featuring The Old Norwichtown Burial Ground & the Norwichtown Green.Or spend the entire day ghost hunting which includes brunch at a haunted restaurant. Reservations & lantern or flashlight required. Call 860-886-4683 for more information. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the CT Graveyard Association.
October 24, 2009
Old Norwichtown Burial Ground & Norwichtown Green, Norwich CT

The Haunted Backyard in Terryville
9th annual haunted backyard to benefit needy families this Thanksgiving. Proceeds Will be going to Turkey's for families in need.
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in October from dark to 10pm
Admission: $4.00 adults $2.00 kids
Address: 104 Eastview Road, Terryville, CT
Phone: 860-589-7185

Connectcut Fall Foliage Tours

2009-10-07T13:09:00.005-04:00

Plan your fall trips here!

Track the progress of the foliage with the Connecticut DEP Fall Foliage Map. Another great way to get a preview of the foliage is to check out nearby webcams and traffic cameras.

Plan a weekend fall driving tour. Here are six driving loop suggestions to take in the best of Connecticut's colorful autumn scenery.

Connecticut Route 15:
City Meets Country along the Merrit Parkway in Fairfield County.

Connecticut Route 1:
Seaside Escapes enjoy the picturesque shoreline towns with lively main streets and historic landmarks

Connecticut Route 9:
River Rambles in the river valley "one of the last great places" according to the Nature Conservancy.

Connecticut Route 7:
Alive with Color Named by National Geographic Traveler as one of the most scenic driving destinations in the country, the Litchfield Hills are a top choice for leaf peeping.

Connecticut Route 169:
Step Back In Time on a National Scenic Byway of America. Route 169 winds through history, passing Colonial homesteads, stone walls, charming inns and B&Bs and untouched farm land in classic New England towns.

Tips for all leaf peepers

Fall Foliage Driving Loops

Scenic Views and Hiking Locations

Leef Peeping at the Connecticut Shoreline

From Go New England Fall Leaf Coloring Pages for kids.

An alternative to driving to see the foliage, take a boat trip down the Connecticut River on the Lady Katherine. They are offering foliage trips - which take about 2 and a half hours - on the river. Dates available: Oct 11, 13, 15, 18, 22, 25 & Nov 1. www.ladykatecruises.com

The Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce

2009-10-01T10:38:00.001-04:00

Listen! Can you hear it? That soulful tolling of the bell? It's calling out to you. signaling that the End is near.

The End of your long wait. It's a Scream Come True!

This Friday. at Dusk. prepare yourself for the most terrifying experience of the year as the Catacomb Doors swing open to usher you into the 2009 Haunted Graveyard.

Bigger and better than ever. And more frightening than you can fathom. Our ghoulish mentors have toiled countless hours creating new Houses to test your courage. More detail to set the stage. More actors to scare you senseless!

Plunge into your darkest fears with our new Thanatophobia. the Fear of Death. Walk the dark halls of the Other Side. Wait. did that move? Is it alive? Is it you? Conquer Thanatophobia, only at the Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce.

Come this Friday, Opening Night and be among the first to experience the horror we've prepared. The Gates open at Lake Compounce at 5:00pm. Buy a Combo pass and ride the rides and enjoy what may be your last meal before entering the Haunted Graveyard at Dusk!

Friday only, enter to win a pair of tickets to the sold-out Paramore concert in New York City! Sign-up at the gate between 7pm and 9 pm and one lucky person will win 2 tickets and limo transportation to the concert. 98Q's Jayna will be broadcasting LIVE to help open the 2009 Haunted Graveyard season. Listen to WDAQ-FM. 98Q for details!

This is only the beginning. we have much more in store for you this year! Visit the website at www.hauntedgraveyard.com for a list of special events and contests. You can download at $5-off coupon (see coupon for valid dates) or visit one of our Sponsors for an even larger discount!

It's coming this Friday! It's a Scream Come True... only at the Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce!

Old SayBrOOk Fire Dept. 12th Annual "Haunted Hayride"

2009-10-01T09:58:00.001-04:00

Old Saybrook, CT - October 01, 2009 -- The Old SayBrOOk Fire Department is pleased to announce its 12th annual Haunted Hayride 2009 on Friday, Oct 16th, Saturday the 17th, Thursday the 22nd, Friday the 23rd, Saturday the 24th, Wednesday the 28th and on Thursday the 29th at Clark Memorial Field (Fireman's Field) on Elm Street.

All year long, the volunteer fire department puts out fires, but during Halloween, its volunteers ignite a "blaze" of scary proportions for all to enjoy. A possessed tractor-drawn hay wagon leads visitors into the deep, dark, demented woods of Scary Old SayBrOOk. For more than 40 minutes, you will venture into the ghastly world of ghosts, goblins, and ghouls. In the eerie fog, you'll be frightened by the bone-chilling sounds of creatures of the night: Which are in front, which are behind and witch are from the great, great beyond? The Old SayBrOOk Fire Department's 12th Annual Haunted Hayride "promises again to be the most hair-raising Halloween season in the history of Old Saybrook."

The event will be held at Clark Memorial Field, 210 Elm Street, Old SayBrOOk, (across from Pasta Vita). Funds from the annual hayride event benefit the all-volunteer Old Saybrook Fire Company No. 1, Inc., and a food drive for the Shoreline Soup Kitchen & Pantries.

Dates: Friday, Oct. 16; Saturday, Oct. 17; Thursday, Oct. 22; Friday, Oct. 23; Saturday, Oct. 24; Wednesday, Oct. 28; and Thursday, Oct. 29.

Time: Trailer Rides Start at Dusk (7 P.M.)

Fees: $10* Adults, **Children under 12 - $5.00*

*Bring a can of food to donate for the Shoreline Soup Kitchen & receive $1.00 off admission.

Express Admission: Adults $20.00 - **Children under 12 - $10.00 -

(Not available for can of food discount)

**WARNING: The haunted hayride is very scary and may be frightening to younger children; parental discretion is advised.

*Advance Group Sales or Additional Information, visit: www.oldsaybrookfire.com/hayride.html *Groups of (minimum) 20 or more, includes express admission!

Parking: Free Parking around the corner on Ingham Hill Road, compliments of the M&J Bus Company.

Additional parking available for Friday & Saturday scary nights with free shuttle bus from the Old Saybrook Shopping Center on Elm Street (Stop & Shop)

www.oldsaybrookfire.com

West Hartford Park Road Parade

2009-09-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

11th Annual Park Road Parade to be held Saturday, October 3, 2009

The 11th annual Park Road Parade, set for Saturday, October 3, will be bigger and better than last year, according to parade organizer Richard Patrissi. The parade steps off at 10:30 AM, at Ringgold Street and ends at South Quaker Lane.

Over 100 contingents and nearly one thousand people are expected to march in this year's parade. The parade features 12 bands, clowns, a stilt walker, dancers, floats, antique cars and 2009 Ferrari's, dogs of all shapes and sizes, sports mascots, and police and fire color guards and vehicles, businesses, civic and cultural organizations and town officials. "The Park Road Parade is a true representation of all that is good in West Hartford," Mr. Patrissi said.

This zany and wildly popular parade draws over 7,000 people each year from West Hartford and beyond to Park Road neighborhood.

A parade would not be complete without music. The 2009 Park Road Parade will feature the Colchester Continental Fife & Drum, Colonel John Chester Fire and Drum Corps., Conard High 9th Graders & Sedgwick Middle School 8th Graders combined band, Connecticut Patriots Ancient Fife & Drum, Hartford Magnet Middle School's Marching Phoenix Band, Heartbeat Dixieland Jazz Band, Rob the Drummer, Sphinx Shriner Band, University of Hartford's Steel Drum Band, Washington Park Junior Drum Corps, and the Windsor Fife & Drum.

Awards are given each year to the most unique float, best neighborhood group and best car.

A parade of this magnitude involves a lot of volunteers and hundreds of hours of planning. A big "thank you" goes out to all of them.

The genesis of the parade started in 1998 as a celebration to a two-year road reconstruction and beautification project which bonded both businesses and residents of the area. The project spanned Prospect Avenue to South Quaker Lane and included a new pavement, streetlights, and sidewalks. The theme then and now is to celebrate the neighborhood: its diversity of people, businesses and culture.

Bring the whole family to this wonderful celebration of West Hartford. For more information, please call Richard Patrissi at 233-2447 or Renée McCue at 561-7521.

Wounded Warrior BBQ Fundraiser

2009-09-30T11:59:00.001-04:00

The HomeZooEd 4H Club of New Haven County is sponsoring their 2nd Annual BBQ with all of the trimmings, raffles, door prizes, a moon bounce and two bands will be performing.

Tickets are $10 per person or $30 per family. The Wounded Warrior Project offers injured service men and women an integrated approach to address long-term needs for education and training, advocacy, and secondary rehabilitative care for the mind, body and spirit. For tickets and information, contact jeff@HomeZooEd.org

October 4th, 2pm until 7pm

Wounded Warrior BBQ Fundraiser

The Devon (Milford) VFW post 7788 at 422 Naugatuck Avenue.

More info on page below:

http://homezooed.blogspot.com/

And some info on the Wounded Warrior Project:

http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk

2009-09-30T11:57:00.001-04:00

Evercare Family Tent Event at the Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk
Evercare by UnitedHealthcare has teamed up with the Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter to provide the Evercare Family Tent at this year's Memory Walk. The Evercare Tent will be a haven for Alzheimer's patients and their family members participating in the event, complete with nurse practitioners and care managers providing comfort and care to patients, a rest area for participating family members and free personal health screenings.

Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009
Time: Registration 9:00 am, Walk 10:00am
Location: Bushnell Park, 31 Pratt St, Hartford CT 06103
Phone: 860-828-2828
http://www.kintera.org/FAF/home/default.asp?ievent=303582

Run or Walk for the Penguins at Mystic Aquarium

2009-09-30T11:24:00.001-04:00

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration to Host 5k Run or Walk (or Waddle!) to Benefit Penguin Research and Conservation

MYSTIC, Conn. (September 30, 2009) – Lace up your sneakers and get ready to run or walk for the good of our feathered friends. Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration will hold a 5k run and two-mile walk at 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 17 to benefit our much-loved African penguins. For the first time ever, dogs are welcome to join their families in the two-mile walk.

The event consists of a 5k run on a trail, field and road course, two-mile walk and ¼-mile kids' race. Prizes will be awarded in eight age divisions for males and females. Participants who raise $50 or more will receive a free commemorative race T-shirt. The top individual fundraiser will be awarded an original piece of art created by the penguins, and the runner-up will receive a free Penguin Encounter, during which he/she will interact face-to-face with a penguin. The top fundraising team (consisting of up to 10 runners and/or walkers) will receive a penguin Encounter Program and will be recognized on a plaque that will hang at the Aquarium.

Visit mysticaquarium.org to register and get additional event details. If you are unable to participate but would like to make a donation, please e-mail development@mysticaquarium.org or call (860) 572-5955, ext. 160.

WHAT:          3rd Annual Penguin 5k run or two-mile walk
WHEN:          Saturday, October 17 at 9 a.m.
WHERE:       Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration , 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355
WHY:            To benefit our penguin research and conservation efforts
COST:           Individuals - $20 entry fee, $25 after October 9, Children ages 3 to 13 - $10., Families - $50, $60 after October 9, Middle school teams - $50 (up to 10 people), $5 for each additional team member

All participants receive free admission to Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration on race day.

CT Restaurant Week October 4 - 9!

2009-09-30T11:20:00.001-04:00

The Connecticut Restaurant Association announces Connecticut Restaurant Week 2009, running from Sunday, October 4 through Friday, October 9.

The CRA's 2008 Restaurant Week was a major success. This year there are (currently) 57 restaurants listed. Participating restaurants are offering diners a special menu for $20.09: Prix Fixe, 2 for 1...you name it!

All participating CRA Members are listed on our web site, along with menus for the week. Visit http://www.ctrestaurant.org to see a list of participating restaurants and menus.

Silk City Music Festival @ MCC

2009-09-30T11:15:00.001-04:00

SILK CITY MUSIC FESTIVAL -FREE EVENT Saturday Oct 10 noon to 6 pm at Manchester Community College

The Silk City Flick Fest is teaming up with Spotlight on Connecticut and www.EntertainmentCT.com to present the Silk City Music Fest. Part of the four day Flick Fest, the Music Fest is a free event that will feature some of Connecticut's best original musicians.

On Saturday, October 10, from noon to 6 pm, local performers will fill the Manchester Community College at the Bandshell with music and Entertainment.

A great way to bring Connecticut musicians together, the Silk City Music Fest will provide a platform for musicians to showcase their talent in front of an audience filled with filmmakers scouting out music for future films.

Many of the musicians to be featured are winners of the Local Music Spotlight Contest sponsored by www.CTLIVEMusic.com. The Local Music Spotlight Contest highlights three Connecticut musicians each month and allows site visitors to listen to and vote for their favorites.

As part of the www.EntertainmentCT.com family, www.CTLIVEMusic.com has been working with local musicians for the past five years to increase the exposure of the large amount of great original music right here in Connecticut.

CTLIVEMusic.com will also provide musical entertainment for the Silk City Flick Fest throughout the four-day weekend at Center Park and other locations.

Rain Date for the Music Fest is October 11.

Scheduled to Appear at Manchester Community College, 60 Bidwell St Manchester, CT 06040 SAT Oct 10 2009 from Noon to 6pm FREE EVENT Rain Date Sunday Oct 11

Billy Rogan

Desire Basset

Burning Natives

Broken Glow

Ariel Bellvalaire

Holding Pattern featuring Tony Spada – International Touring Band from Connecticut

Scheduled to appear with the Silk City Art Festival at Center Park, 586 Main Street, Manchester, CT 06040 SAT Oct 10 2009 from Noon to 6pm FREE EVENT Rain Date Sunday Oct 11

Phillip Bradley

Sean Clapis

Jared McCloud

Jeff Anderson

Sinan Bakir

Leah Martin

Nicole Zuraitis

Up to date info including schedule of music and location info is available at www.SilkCityMusicFest.com

Follow ThisIsCT.net on Twitter

2009-08-17T11:46:00.001-04:00

There are daily updates and notes about things to do...

Follow my updates here:
http://twitter.com/this_is_ct

Connecticut Tax Free Shopping Week 2009

2009-08-10T17:20:00.000-04:00

Connecticut Sales Tax Holiday on Clothing Items August 15th - August 22th, 2009 Connecticut shoppers will have one week to buy items of clothing and footwear costing under $300 without paying Connecticut sales tax (hooray!).

This year, the tax free week will run from Saturday, August 15 through Saturday, August 22nd.

More information about the rules that apply to the sales tax free week can be found here:

http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1514&q=318566

CT 1st State with Statewide 'Reverse 911'

2009-08-05T10:17:00.001-04:00

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that by September 1 Connecticut will be the first state in the nation to have a statewide Emergency Notification System (ENS) that allows use of the 9-1-1 system to spread word of dangerous weather, missing persons, natural disasters and other crises to residents all over the state.

ENS systems – often referred to by the trade name "Reverse 9-1-1" – are in place now in a number of Connecticut cities and towns but have not been implemented on a statewide basis here or in any other state.

For more information, please visit http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.asp?A=3675&Q=444474 .

Getting Scottish in Connecticut

2009-07-28T19:00:00.000-04:00

Being Scottish in Connecticut means I take notice of all the little things like where to buy Irn Bru, Tunnocks Tea Cakes or Haggis (not that I actually would buy a haggis - ewww) like the upcoming Scottish festivals listed below, and the town names, Scotland for example! Did you know that Connecticut has an official State Tartan? I actually just discovered it myself. Pictured above, isn't it lovely?

According to the Connecticut State Library the above pattern was selected by the Connecticut General Assembly in May 1995 as the official tartan of the state: A plaid, with large blue stripes representing Long Island Sound, large green stripes representing forest, medium gray stripes representing granite, red and yellow pin stripes representing autumn leaves and white pin stripes representing snow.

Upcoming Scottish Events in Connecticut
(Updated for 2009)

Pipes In The Valley

"Connecticut's premier Celtic music event of the year"
This Celtic Music Festival celebrates nine years at the Riverfront with bagpipes, Celtic Fiddling, Scottish Drumming, Highland Games, Step Dancing and Kids Activities! Sponsored by The Olde Burnside Brewing Co., this year's event promises a day filled with fun, flavor and world-class entertainment! CHEERS!
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2009

Time: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Admission Free
Riverfront Plaza, 300 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT
http://pipesinthevalley.com/

26th Annual Scottish Festival
Hosted by the St. Andrew's Society of Connecticut the festival includes much toe-tappin' music, Clan Tents, Bonnie Knees Contest, Children's Games, Sheep herding demonstration and Scottish Breed Dog Show, Weavers, Connecticut Society of Genealogists, Scottish Imports and Scottish Food, Dance exhibition of Scottish Country Dancing and a whole heck of a lot more!
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009

Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm - Rain or Shine!
Admission: $10.00 - 16 yrs and older
$5.00 - Seniors and children 6-15
Free - under six
Goshen Fairgrounds, Route 63, Goshen, CT
http://www.sasct.org/festival.html

22nd Annual Scotland Highland Games
Its in a town called Scotland, it can't miss! This annual festival features Highland Dance Competition, Dads, Brothers, Boyfriends Pas de Basque & High Cuts, Dance Competition for Charity, Individual Piping and Drumming Competition, Highland Athletic Competition (big things will be thrown), Celtic Music, Harp Demonstration, Highland Cattle, Sheep Dog Demonstration, Clan Village and Scottish Vendors with Food and Wares.
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2009
Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Rain or Shine)
Admission: Adults $12.00
Seniors (65+) $10.00
Children (6 to 16) $ 5.00
Children (5 and Under w/ paying Adult) *Free*
Edward Waldo Homestead, Waldo Road, Scotland, CT
http://www.scotlandgames.org/

There is a great selection of Scottish, English and Irish goods at the UK Gourmet in Newtown or Mrs Bridges Pantry in Woodstock.

Linzi

Managing Editor

www.ThisIsCT.net

connected to connecticut.

things to do. web. blog. events.

All the Fun at Connecticut Fairs - Summer 2009

2009-07-28T17:30:00.000-04:00

It's fair to say the great State of Connecticut is home to almost 50 agricultural fairs from July through October. Fairs featuring tractor-pulls, delicious fried-dough, carnival rides, best-in-show farm animals, petting zoos, baking competitions for the foodies and a lot more! Best of all - they're so local you can add them to your Staycation To Do List.

Here is the 2009 listing of the Major Fairs, District Fairs, Local Fairs and 4-H Fairs in Connecticut. They are organized by type and date. If there is any information missing that I should include please feel free to contact me.

THE MAJOR FAIRS

Lebanon Country Fair
August 7, 8, 9, 2009
Admission: Adults: $8.00 Friday & Saturday; $7.00 Sunday
SENIORS 65 years and older: $7.00 Friday, Saturday; $6.00 Sunday
All 3 days CHILDREN : 11 and Under Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday: 6:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am - 12:00 Midnight
Sunday: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Address: Mack Road (Off Routes 87 & 207) Lebanon, CT 06249
www.lebanoncountryfair.org

Bridgewater Country Fair
The Bridgewater Country Fair is a long standing tradition, preserving the character of the country fairs of yesterday, when farmers and other country folk congregated to compete with their prized livestock, produce, and arts and crafts. It was also, and still is a place where one can compare the latest farm and lawn equipment and haggle on the price of a new vehicle.
August 21, 22, 23, 2009
Admission: Adults: $8.00
Children under 12: Free
Senior Citizen Days: Saturday & Sunday - $5.00
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sunday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Address: Route 133, 100 Main Street, South Bridgewater, CT. 06752
www.bridgewaterfair.com

Wolcott Country Fair
Something for everyone at the Wolcott Lions Agricultural Fair from animal pulling contests, agriculture, animals, arts and crafts, Yankee Pro Wrestling, great food and more!
August 21, 22, 23, 2009
Admission: Adults: $7.00
Seniors: $4.00
Children under 12: Free
Parking: $3.00 with free shuttle service
Hours: Friday: 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Address: Frisbie School - Woodtick Road & Todd Road, Wolcott, CT
www.wolcottfair.com

Brooklyn Fair
August 27, 28, 29, 30, 2009
Admission: Adults: $10.00
Children 12 and under: Free
Senior Day (Sunday August 30): $6.00
Parking: $4.00
Hours: Thursday 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 11:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am - 11:00 pm
Address: Route 169, 101 Canterbury Rd., Brooklyn, CT, 06234
www.brooklynfair.org

Terryville Lions Country Fair
August 28, 29, 30, 2009
Admission: Adults: Friday: $6.00, Saturday. & Sunday. $8.00
SENIORS : Fri. $4.00, Sat. & Sun. $6.00
CHILDREN : 12 & under Free
Seniors: Friday: $4.00, Saturday & Sunday: $6.00
Children 12 & under: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday: 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Address: 135 Town Hill Road (off Route 6), Terryville, CT
www.terryvillefair.org

Chester Fair
Tradition. Livestock. Pulse of the land. Home made crafts & cooking. And most of all - people having fun. That's what the Chester Fair is all about.
August 28, 29, 30, 2009
Admission: Adults: $7.00
Children under 12: Free
Seniors: $5.00 on Saturday and Sunday
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
Sunday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Address: Middlesex Turnpike (Route 154) Chester, CT
www.chesterfair.org

Woodstock Fair
"The Woodstock Fair is a Harvest Celebration; it's a Homecoming; it's Fun, Educational, and Entertaining. It's an Institution of it's very own."
September 4, 5, 6, 7, 2009
Admission: ADULTS: $12.00
SENIOR DAY: Friday & Saturday: $8.00
CHILDREN : 10 & under Free
Hours: Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm (10:00 pm with hand stamp)
Monday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Address: Junctions of Route 171 & 169, South Woodstock, CT 06267
www.woodstockfair.com

Haddam Neck Fair
September 4, 5, 6, 7, 2009
Admission: Adults $7.00
Seniors: $6.00
Kids under 12: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Fri. 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Sat. 7:30 am to 10:00 pm
Sun. 7:30 am to 10:00 pm
Monday 7:30 am to 6:00 pm
Address: 26 Quarry Hill Road, Haddam Neck, CT 06424
www.haddamneckfair.com

Goshen Fair
Features Draft Horse Show, Lynn Flanders Country Line Dance Lessons, Antique Tractor Pull, wood cutting contest and more!
September 5, 6, 7, 2009
Admission: Adults: $8.00
Seniors: $5.00
Children 12 and under: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Sat. & Sun. 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Mon. 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Address: Route 63 South of Goshen Center, Location A, 116 Old Middle St., Goshen, CT 06756
www.goshenfair.org

Hebron Harvest Fair
September 10, 11, 12, 13, 2009
Admission: Adults (all days) $10.00
SENIORS: $10.00 (Friday 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Free )
CHILDREN: 12 and under Free
Parking: $5.00 per car. Free with shuttle from outer lots. Handicap access, parking & facilities.
Hours: Thurs. 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Fri. 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Sat. 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Sun. 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
Address: Hebron Lions Fairground, 347 Gilead Street (Route 85), Hebron, CT 06248
www.hebronharvestfair.org

North Haven Fair
September 10, 11, 12, 13, 2009
Admission: Free: Parking: Adults: $9.00
CHILDREN : Under 12 Free
SENIOR DAY: Sunday $5.00
Hours: Thurs. 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Fri. 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Sat. 10:00 am to 11:00 pm
Sun. 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Address: Route 5, 220 Washington Avenue, Exit 12 off I-91, North Haven, CT 06473
www.northhaven-fair.com

Bethlehem Fair
September 11, 12, 13, 2009
Admission: Adults: $7.00
SENIORS: $5.00 (Saturday & Sunday)
CHILDREN: Under 12 Free, PARKING: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm,
Saturday 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Sunday 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Address: 388 Main Street North, Bethlehem, CT
www.bethlehemfair.com

Four Town Fair
September 17, 18, 19, 20, 2009
Admission: Adults: $7.00
Children 12 and under: Free
Senior Citizens: $5.00 (Thurs & Friday only)
Parking: Free
Hours: Thursday 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Friday 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
Sunday 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
Address: 56 Egypt Road (Off Route 83) Somers, CT
www.fourtownfair.com

Guilford Agricultural Fair
September 18, 19, 20, 2009
Admission: $10.00
CHILDREN 6-11 $2.00 and under 6 - Free
SENIOR CITIZENS : $8.00
2-DAY discount PASS : $16.00
Parking: Fair Grounds $3.00/Off Grounds
Free Shuttle Bus/Parking off I-95 Exits 57 & 59
Hours: Friday 1:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Sunday 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Address: Stone House Lane, Guilford, CT 06437
Exits 57, 58 or 59 from I-95
www.guilfordfair.org

Orange Country Fair
September 19 - 20, 2009
Admission: Adults: $7.00
CHILDREN : 15 and under Free
SENIOR CITIZENS : $5.00
Parking: Free
Hours: Saturday: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Address: Orange Center Road, Route 152, Orange, CT
www.orangectfair.com

Durham Fair
September 25, 26, 27 2009
Admission: $12.00 (Single Day), $25.00 (3 Day Pass)
Seniors $10.00
Children under 12: free
Parking: Free with shuttle bus
Hours: Fri. 9:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sat. 9:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sun. 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Address: Routes 17 & 68, Durham, CT (I-91, exit 15, I-95, exit 58)
www.durhamfair.com

Berlin Fair
October 2, 3, 4, 2009
Admission: Adults: $12.00
SENIORS (62+) $8.00
Children (11 & under) FREE
Parking: Free with shuttle from off-site lots
Hours: Friday 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sunday 9:00 am - 6:30 pm
Address: 260 Beckley Rd, Berlin, CT 06037
www.ctberlinfair.com

Harwinton Fair
October 3 & 4, 2009
Admission: Adults: $7.00
Children 12 and under: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Saturday: 8:00 am until 6:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Address: 150 Locust Road, one mile S.E. of Harwinton Center off Rte. 4
06790
www.harwintonfair.com

Portland Fair
October 9, 10, 11, 2009
Admission: Adults: $7.00
Seniors: $5.00
Children 10 and under: Free
Parking: Free off-site parking
Hours: Friday: 5:00 - 11:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Address: Exchange Club Grounds,
Route 17A, Portland, CT 06480
www.portlandfair.com

THE DISTRICT FAIRS

Hamburg Fair
Revolutionary War Encampment, The 6th Connecticut Regiment, Campfire Cooking, Marching Drills, Living History, Camp Life, Blacksmith Demonstrations, Medieval Reenactors, Renaissance Faire Living History, Authentic Dress and more.
August 14, 15, 16, 2009
Admission: Adults: $5.00
Seniors: $3.00
Children under 12: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday: 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 p.m.
Sunday: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Address: Route 156 Hamburg Cove, Lyme, Connecticut
www.hamburgfair.org

Wapping Fair
Roderick Russell--sword swallower, and Bwana Jim and his exotic animals highlight the entertainment lineup at the fair this year. In addition, traditional favorites Magic of Christopher, Ed the Wizard, the Ronald McDonald Show, Wapping Idol, the Little Miss/Mr. Farmer Contest along with a stunning array of food and the wildly popular Saturday night fireworks.
September 10, 11, 12, 13, 2009
Admission: Adults and Children 57" and above: $6.00
Seniors: $3.00
Children under 57" tall: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Thursday: 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Friday: 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Address: Evergreen Walk, Behind LA Fitness, South Windsor, CT 06074
100 Cedar Avenue, South Windsor, CT 06074
www.wappingfair.org

Ledyard Fair
September 11, 12, 13, 2009
Admission: Adults: $8.00
SENIOR / YOUTH 13 yrs - 18 yrs: $5.00
Children under 13: Free
Parking: Free at Jr. & Sr. High Schools
Hours: Friday: 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Address: Route 117 at Ledyard Center, Ledyard Connecticut
www.ledyardfair.org

Riverton Fair
October 9, 10, 11, 2009
Admission: Adults: $5.00
CHILDREN : Under 12 Free, PARKING: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday: 4:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (later weather permitting)
Sunday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Address: Route 20, Riverton, CT
www.rivertonfair.org

THE 4-H FAIRS

Windam County 4-H Fair
July 31, August 1, 2, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Address: Brooklyn Fairgrounds, Route 169, Brooklyn, CT
www.4-hfair.org/windham/county.html

Tolland County 4-H Fair
August 7, 8, 9, 2009
Hours: Friday: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Address: 24 Hyde Avenue (Route 30) Vernon, CT 06066
www.4-hfair.org/tolland/county.html

Middlesex/New Haven County 4-H Fair
August 7, 8, 9, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: $5.00 per car
Hours: Friday: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sunday: 8:00 am - 10:00 pm
Address: Durham Fairgrounds, Route 17, Durham, CT
www.4-hfair.org

Litchfield County 4-H Fair
August 8 & 9, 2009
Admission: Adults: Free
Children: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Saturday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Address: Route 63 Goshen, CT
www.4-hfair.org/litchfield/county.html

Hartford County 4-H Fair
August 14, 15, 16, 2009
Admission: Adults: $5.00
Seniors: $5.00
Children under 12 and under: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Friday: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am- 5:00 pm
Address: Four Town Fairgrounds, Egypt Road, Somers, CT
www.4-hfair.org/hartford/county.html

THE LOCAL FAIRS

Ekonk Community Grange Fair
August 8, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Address: 723 Ekonk Hill Road, Sterling, CT
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=31

Winchester Grange Fair
August 9, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Address: Winchester Center Green (Route 63), CT
Or 100 Newfield Rd, Winchester Center, CT 06094.
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=93

Southington Grange Community Fair
August 15, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: Saturday. 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Address: Corner of Knowles Ave & Summit St., Plantsville, CT 06479
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=75

Harmony Grange Fair
August 29, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Address: 2 Shelton Road (Corner of Rt 110 and 111), Monroe, CT
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=39

Litchfield Grange Fair
August 29, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Address: 453 Bantam Rd., Litchfield CT 06759
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=50

Simsbury Grange Agricultural Fair
August 29, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00
Hours: Saturday. 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Address: 236 Farms Village Road, (Route 309), West Simsbury, CT 06092
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=74

Cannon Grange Agricultural Fair & Exposition
August 30, 2009
Admission: ADULTS: $2.00
GRANGERS $1.00
CHILDREN: 12 and unders: Free
Parking: Free - at Cannondale at Railroad Station
Hours: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Address: Cannon Grange Hall, 25 Cannon Road, (Just off Route 7)Wilton CT 06897
www.geocities.com/cannongrange

Granby Grange Agricultural Fair
September 12, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Address: 212 N. Granby Rd. (Route 189), Granby, CT 06035
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=37

Killingly Grange Fair
September 12, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Address: 801 Hartford Pike, Dayville, CT
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=47

Meriden Grange Fair
September 12, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Address: 540 Broad Street, Meriden, CT 06451
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=56

Riverton Grange Fair
September 12, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Address: Grange Hall, Route 20, Riverton, CT
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=72

Wallingford Grange Fair
September 19, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 12:00 noon - 10:00 pm
Address: 586 Center St. (Route 150), Wallingford, CT 06492
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=84

Cheshire Grange Community Grange Fair
September 19 & 20, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, both days
Address: 44 Wallingford Road, Cheshire, CT 06410
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=26

Whigville Grange Fair
September 26, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Address: 153 South Main Street, Burlington, CT, 06013
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=92

Beacon Grange Fair
September 27, 2009
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Hours: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Address: 670 Northfield Road, Northfield CT 06778
www.ctstategrange.com/subgrangepage.asp?grangeid=17

And out-of-state. . .

The Big E
Yes, it's out of state, but it's still local! Don't miss Connecticut Day...
September 18 -October 4 2009
Friday, Sept. 18 - Be Kid For A Day & Military Appreciation Day
Wednesday, Sept. 23rd - Connecticut Day
Friday, Oct. 2 - New England Specialty Food Day
Gates open at 8 am
Most exhibits and buildings are open 10 am to 10 pm
Advance Tickets: Adults $10, Children (6-12) - $8
Gate Tickets Weekdays: Adults $12, Children (6-12) - $8
Gate Tickets Weekends: Adults $15, Children (6-12) - $10
Children (5 & under): Free
Parking: Gate 9 Lot: Mon. - Fri., $5,
Sat. or Sun., $10
Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield, MA
Phone: (413) 737-2443
www.thebige.com

Mystic Aquarium Contest to Name Three New Sea Lion Pups

2009-07-28T11:59:00.001-04:00

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration recently welcomed three California sea lion pups and wants the public's help in naming them! Starting today, the aquarium is holding a contest to find the perfect names for the playful pups – one male and two females – that arrived on May 16. The chosen names will be announced during their first birthday party on August 27 at 11 a.m. at the aquarium.

The contest consists of several parts. First, the public can submit name ideas through the aquarium's Web site, mysticaquarium.org, through August 12. From these suggestions, the aquarium's animal care staff and celebrity judges – WFSB-TV meteorologist and "Better Connecticut" co-host Scot Haney , Miss Connecticut 2009 Sharalynn Kuziak and UConn Men's Basketball Coach Jim Calhoun – will choose five finalist names for each pup. From August 17 to 24, the public can go back online to vote for their favorite names. The winning names will be announced on August 27 at the pups' first birthday celebration, featuring cake for guests and a fish "dessert" for the pups.

http://www.mysticaquarium.org/content/forms/sealionpup.html

Top 100 Geekiest Places To Take Kids This Summer

2009-07-16T09:43:00.001-04:00

Connecticut has four of the geekiest places to take your kids to this summer according to
Geek Dad on Wired.com.

The popular blog has listed the Top 100 Geekiest places to visit in the United States and Mystic Aquarium, Stepping Stones Museum, the Mark Twain house and the new Connecticut Science Center all make the cut.

http://www.wired.com/geekdad/2009/07/100-geeky-places-to-bring-your-kids-this-summer/

Last Chance Pets Connecticut

2009-07-08T12:41:00.001-04:00

Came across this great service on Twitter. If you're currently looking for a pet, and can help out. Last Chance Pets CT spreads the word to help these animals find their forever homes.

http://twitter.com/LastChanceCT

Twitter!

2009-06-30T08:17:00.002-04:00

Finally we are on Twitter. You can follow my updates here:
http://twitter.com/this_is_ct

Fourth of July Fireworks in CT

2009-06-30T07:00:00.003-04:00

Fourth of July fireworks displays and Independence Day Parades and Events in Connecticut.

Welcome new visitors, we're glad you found our site. Please bookmark us and come back again soon! Or join the mailing list, at the top of the page, to receive updates about events and things to do in Connecticut. If you have any I should list please let me know by emailing me at linzi (at) thisisct.net Thank you! (This page updated on 6/30/2009)

Organized alphabetically first by date and then by town. Fireworks times are after dark unless otherwise stated. Raindates are listed where available.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

6/30/2009 Westbrook, Fireworks at 9 p.m.
Location: Waters Edge Resort, Boston Post Road
Entertainment & childrens activities from 1 p.m.
Contact: 800-222-5901
Rain date: Wednesday, July 1

Wednesday, July 1st, 2009

7/1/2009 Oxford, Fireworks time 9:45 pm
Location: Quaker Farms School, 30 Great Oak Road
Contact: 203-881-5230

7/1/2009 Vernon, time 9:40 pm
Location: Fox Hill Tower, Henry Park, Town of Vernon
www.vernon-ct.gov/july_in_the_sky.html
Rain Date: 7/2/2009, and 7/3/2009

Thursday, July 2nd, 2009

7/2/2009, Middletown, time dusk
Fireworks festival
Music begins at 5 p.m. at Riverview Plaza
Fireworks: Municipal Building Lawn, DeKoven Drive and Court Street
Rain date: 7/9/2009
www.cityofmiddletown.com

7/2/2009 Moodus, time: 9 pm
Sunrise Resort Grounds, Sunrise Resort - $5 per carload
www.sunriseresort.com

Friday, July 3rd, 2009

7/3/2009 Madison, Fireworks at dusk
Location: Madison Surf Club
Fireworks are visible from all town beaches and Hammonasset State Park.
Contact: Beach & Rec., 203-245-5623
Rain date: 7/10/2009
www.madisonct.org

7/3/2009 Manchester, Fireworks at 9:30 pm (moved to Sunday)
Location: Manchester Community College
Dutch Forgarty Independence Day Celebration starts at 4 pm
Cost: $7 in advance, $8 on the day if tickets are left.

MILFORD FIREWORKS & LIVE CONCERT
Sponsored By The Westfield Mall Milford
7/3/2009, time 4:00 pm
General Admission $ 1.00 Adults (collected at the door)
Kids under 10 FREE
Concert & Fireworks For All AGES
Family Amusements & Activities, Food, Drinks & More
The Westfield Connecticut Post Mall
1201 Boston Post Road, Upper Level Parking Garage, Milford, CT
www.WESTFIELD.com

7/3/2009 Wallingford, Fireworks at dusk
Location: Sheehan High School
Contact: Parks & Rec - 203-294-2120

7/3/2009 West Haven, Fireworks at dusk
Location: Bradley Point in West Haven
Rain date: 7/5/2009

Saturday, July 4th 2009

7/4/2009 Barkhamsted, Parade at 10:00 am
Location: West River Road, Pleasant Valley
Contact: Lions Club, 860-379-1138
Rain date: 7/5/2009

7/4/2009 Bristol, Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Location: Lake Compounce Theme Park
Cost: Park admission
Contact: 860-583-3300
www.lakecompounce.com

7/4/2009 Chester, Road Race
Location: Start at flag pole, Main Street, Chester Center
31st Annual four-mile road race, sponsored by Rotary Club.
Cost: $20 before June 24, $25 after
Contact: 860-526-2122

7/4/2009 Colebrook, Annual celebration at 11:00 am
Location: Colebrook Meeting House
Guest speaker will be Michael F. Hurd.
Contact: Jan Rathbun, 860-379-9756

7/4/2009 Columbia, Parade at 10:00 am
Location: Horace Porter School, Schoolhouse Road
Contact: Tracy Verrastro, recreation director, 860-228-0110 x21

7/4/2009 Essex, Parade at 10:00 am
Location: Ivoryton Village
Contact: Susie Beckman, 860-767-9755
Rain date: 7/5/2009

7/4/2009 Groton, Parade at 10 a.m.
Location: Poquonnock Plains Park to Groton Shopping Plaza
Contact: 860-536-5680
www.town.groton.ct.us

7/4/2009, Litchfield, Parade begins at 2:30 to 4:30 pm
Location: Litchfield History Museum
Pet parade, part of "Turn of the Century Fest"
Contact: 860-567-4501
www.litchfieldhistoricalsociety.org

7/4/2009 Madison, Parade at 11:00 am
Location: Samson Rock Drive to Surf Club
Contact: Beach and Rec., 203-245-5623

7/4/2009 Madison, Concert at 5:00 pm
Location: Town Green
Shoreline Youth Symphony followed by Wallingford Symphony.
Contact: Beach & Rec 203-245-5623

7/4/2009 Middlebury, Fireworks at 9 pm
Location: Quassy Amusement Park
3-D fireworks begin between 9 and 10:15 pm
Cost: Viewing glasses, $1; Parking, $7
Contact: 1-800-367-7275
www.quassy.com

7/4/2009 Mystic, Parade at 1pm
Location: Mystic Seaport
Cost: Mystic Seaport admission
Contact: 860-572-5315
www.mysticseaport.org

7/4/2009 New Britain, Fireworks at 9:00 pm
Location: Stanley Quarter Park
Great American Boom, including Souled Out from 5-9 pm
Contact: 860-329-2127
Rain date: 7/5/2009
www.new-britain.net

7/4/2009 New Haven, Fireworks at 9:00 pm
Location: Long Wharf Park
The IKEA New Haven July 4 fireworks show.
Contact: Barbara Lamb, 203-946-8378
Rain date: 7/5/2009

7/4/2009 New Milford, Fireworks at dusk
Location: Youngs Field Park, Youngs Field Road
Sponsored by Village Center Organization of New Milford.
Rain date: 7/5/2009

7/4/2009 Norwich, Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Location: Norwich Marina at American Wharf
Celebration with food and vendors begins at 3 pm
Contact: American Ambulance, 860-886-1463

7/4/2009 Ridgefield, Fireworks at dusk
Location: Ridgefield High School
Gates open at 6 pm. Bring folding chairs or blankets and a picnic supper. Fireworks will start at dusk.
Rain Date: 7/5/2009

7/4/2009 Stafford, Fireworks at 9:15 pm
Location: Stafford High School football field
Part of Summerfest celebration, which begins at noon.
Contact: 860-684-1777
Rain date: 7/5/2009

7/4/2009 Washington, Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Location: Shepaug Valley High School
Gates open for entrance 3 pm - 8:45 pm; food vendors on site
Cost: $20 per car, car passes from last year still valid
Contact: 860-868-1519
Rain date: 7/5/2009

7/4/2009 Windham, Boom Box Parade at 11:00 am
Location: Starts at Jillson Square, Main Streeet
Formation starts at 9 a.m. Anyone can march or enter a float.
Contact: 860-465-3046

7/4/2009 Woodstock, Fourth of July Jamboree at 11:00 am
Location: East Woodstock Congregational Church, 220 Woodstock Road
Entertainment, food and crafts.
Contact: 860-928-7449

Sunday, July 5th 2009

7/5/2009 Guilford, Concert on the Green at 6:30 pm
Location: Town Green, Guilford
Head downtown with a blanket or lawn chair and relax while you listen to the smooth sounds of jazz quartet Marcel & Magnifique.
Admission: Free
Phone: (203) 453-3890

7/5/2009 Manchester, Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Location: Manchester Community College
Dutch Forgarty Independence Day Celebration starts at 4 pm
Cost: $7 in advance, $8 on the day if tickets are left.

7/5/2009 New London, Concert at 2 pm
Location: Leamy Hall Auditorium, USGC Academy
U.S. Coast Guard Band plays music of John Philip Sousa.
Contact: 860-701-6826

7/5/2009 Norwich, Semiseptcentennial Parade 1:00 pm
Location: Broadway to Franklin Square, Norwich
As part of Norwich’s 350th Anniversary celebration the town will pull out all the stops for a parade that includes floats, bands, antique cars and dignitaries from all over the world! Admission: Free. Phone: (860) 823-3742
www.norwichct350.com

Thursday, July 9th 2009

7/9/2009 Farmington, Fireworks at 9:00 pm
Location: Union School, 173 School St., Unionville
Tunxis Hose Firemans Carnival starts at 6 pm
Contact: 860-675-2534
Rain date: 7/10/2009

Saturday, July 11th 2009

7/11/2009 Coventry, Fireworks at 9:00 pm
Location: Patriots Park, 124 Lake St.
A patriotic ceremony will be held (Color Guard) at 8:30 pm
CoventryFest starts at 2:30 pm
Cost: Suggested $5 donation.
Rain date: 7/12/2009

7/11/2009 Guilford, Fireworks at dusk
Location: Guilford Fair Grounds
Rain date: 7/12/2009

7/11/2009 Hartford, Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Location: Connecticut River
Riverfest Celebration runs from 4-10:30 pm
Contact: Riverfront Recapture at 860-713-3131
Rain date: 7/12/2009
www.riverfront.org

7/11/2009 New London, Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Location: Fishermans Pier, New London
Sailfest: Arrive early for best viewing and to enjoy free entertainment.
Rain date: 7/12/2009

Sunday, July 12th, 2009

7/12/2009 Enfield, Fireworks at 9:45 pm
Location: Town Green, Enfield
Finale of three-day celebration.

Saturday, July 18th, 2009

7/18/2009 East Lyme, Fireworks at 9:00 pm
Location: Main St.
Celebrate East Lyme
Starts at 3 pm and ends with the fireworks at 9 pm

7/18/2009 Newington, Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Location: Mill Pond Park
Newington Extravanganza.

7/18/2009 Portland, Fireworks at 9:15 pm
Location: Portland Fairgrounds, north end of Main Street
Rain date: 7/19/2009

Thank you for visiting www.thisisct.net have a safe and happy Independence Day holiday!

- Linzi Strong, Owner

Win Tickets to Rascal Flatts This Friday!

2009-06-22T15:35:00.004-04:00

The Rascal Flatts kicked off their American Living Unstoppable tour earlier this month and will be hitting the Comcast Theater in Hartford this Friday, June 26th.

Thanks to some good people at JCPenney we have a pair of tickets to give away for this show that also includes a meet and greet with the band!

To enter this exclusive competition simply email me rascalflatts@thisisct.net with Rascal Flatts Competition in the subject line. Please include your name, phone and address in the body of the email. The winner will be selected at random, and notified by phone, and through this website on Thursday.

And the winner is. . .

Congratulations to Karen Wilson of Uncasville, CT who won the tickets to tomorrow's meet and greet with Rascal Flatts and concert!

Rascal Flatts American Living Unstoppable tour:

For their summer tour, the Rascal Flatts will be outfitted in all American Living apparel, embodying the look and feel of both their sound and the summer. In conjunction with the tour, Rascal Flatts have written "American Living," a new song inspired by the brand. The song can be heard right now on the official site for the Rascal Flatts American Living tour: http://www.jcp.com/rascalflatts.

Fans can pick up a special version of the band's Unstoppable CD at any JCPenney store – all proceeds from the sale of those CDs will be donated to the J.C. Penney Afterschool Fund, which provides children in need with access to afterschool programs.