A Taste of Litchfield Hills Aug. 25 - 27

From comfort food to gourmet dishes and live entertainment to an outdoor shopping bazaar, the 27th annual Taste of The Litchfield Hills will offer a menu of fine fare and fun at a new location. New England's oldest food and wine festival will be held Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 25-26, 2012, at its new location, Harwinton Fairgrounds, 150 Locust Road, Harwinton, Conn. Since 1985, the festival has annually attracted thousands of guests for a sampling of the region's food and wine, plus upscale shopping and live entertainment. This year's menu will feature such dishes as BBQ pulled pork, braised short ribs, chicken and black bean chili, fresh prosciutto Panini, lamb shawama pita wrap, lobster hush puppies, lobster mac and cheese, grilled pizza, New England clam chowder, seared sea scallops, sesame chicken and many other items. Sweet offerings will include apple cider cinnamon donuts, banana & toffee pie, fruit smoothies, old fashioned kettle corn, white chocolate apricot squares and many other delicious desserts. The 2012 Menu is available for download at www.LitchfieldFestivals.com. Foodies will enjoy "grazing-sized" portions of house specialties prepared by chefs from regional restaurants, bistros and other purveyors of fine food with prices ranging from $4.00 to $8.00 per item. Table seating will be available in the festival's Culinary Tent and outdoor picnic pavilions. Plus, guests are invited to picnic on the grounds with their own lawn chairs and blankets. Participating culinary vendors will include @ The Corner (Litchfield), Backstage Restaurant (Torrington), Faddy's Donuts & Ice Cream (Bloomfield), The Green Room Café (Winsted), Indochine Pavilion (New Haven), Infinity Bistro (Norfolk), Jake's Wayback Burgers (Torrington), Kelly's Kitchen (Winsted), KJ' Grilled Pizza (Torrington), La Cupola Ristorante & Inn (Litchfield) and Noujaim's Specialty Foods (Torrington). An assortment of imported Italian wines from Don Tomasi Winery will be available for purchase by the glass. Samuel Adams Boston Lager beer, plus a variety of soft drinks also will be available for purchase. Live entertainment will include country singer-songwriter Courtney Drummey (Saturday, 12-3 p.m.), jazz recording artists The Christine Spero Group (Saturday, 4-7 p.m.) and blues artists The Andy James Band (Sunday, 1-4 p.m.). Guests will also enjoy an upscale shopping experience in the festivals outdoor bazaar featuring such unique gift items as artisan-crafted jewelry, gourmet food products, kitchenware and other products and services. Hours for A Taste of the Litchfield Hills will be 12 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, and 12 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. Ticket prices are Adult (age 12-64): $10 On-Site or $8 Advance Purchase; Senior (age 65+): $8 On-Site or $6 Advance Purchase; and Child (Under 12): Free admission. Advance tickets and more information are available at www.LitchfieldFestivals.com. Admission does not include food and beverage, which are purchased separately. Harwinton Fairgrounds is located off Route 4 on Locust Road in Harwinton, Conn., just a few minutes from the intersection of Routes 8 & 118 and is an easy day-trip from Albany, The Berkshires, Hartford, The Hudson Valley, Metro New York, New Haven and Springfield. With its antique shops, art galleries, covered bridges and quaint villages, the Litchfield Hills is an ideal vacation destination for the three-day holiday weekend. Lodging options include dozens of bed and breakfasts, country inns, resorts, hotels and motels. Tourism information is available from the Western Conn. Convention & Visitors Bureau at 860-567-4506 or www.LitchfieldHills.com. About A Taste of The Litchfield Hills Since 1985, A Taste of The Litchfield Hills has annually attracted thousands of guests for a sampling of the region's food and locally-produced wine, plus live entertainment and upscale shopping. More Info: www.LitchfieldFestivals.com

THE SIMPSONS MAKE A SPLASH AT LAKE COMPOUNCE'S CROCODILE COVE WATERPARK ON AUGUST 22nd

Lake Compounce!

TV's longest-running scripted show, The Simpsons, is hitting the road and will make an appearance at Lake Compounce's Crocodile Cove Waterpark on Wednesday, August 22nd to host a themed waterpark takeover. Entrance to the event is free with park admission and Crocodile Cove will be open from 12noon to 7:00 P.M. This event is free with admission to the park.

Guests can dive-in and celebrate along with The Simpsons, and be the first to ride a Springfield donut inner tube that would make even Homer jealous. They can also pose for some great family photos with The Simpsons, water park style.

After spending the day at the Simpsons Summer Celebration, families can continue the fun at home with The Simpsons on Blu-ray and DVD. Fans can enjoy exclusive footage and special features available only on these releases. The Simpsons Seasons 1-14 are currently available; Season 15 will be released on December 4, 2012.

About Lake Compounce Lake Compounce
Part of the Palace Entertainment family of parks, is New England's Family Theme Park and the oldest continuously operating amusement park in North America. With the largest water park in Connecticut, and a brand new water slide called Riptide Racer, the park is now in its 167th season. Now open daily. Regular admission price for the 2012 season is $36.99. Junior admission, which is for guests under 52 inches tall, is $26.99. Senior admission, for ages 61 and up, is $18.99. Children 3 years of age and younger are admitted free. Prices subject to change without notice. All tickets and season passes may be purchased by visiting www.lakecompounce.com.

About Palace Entertainment Palace Entertainment
Owns and operates 40 theme parks, water parks and family entertainment centers nationwide, including Kennywood, Idlewild and Storyland on the east coast. The company entertains millions of guests annually and is one of the largest park operators in the US. For more information, visit palaceentertainment.com.

Pondering the Pond Walk at Weir Farm National Historic Site

Weir Farm Pond

Are you a frequent hiker to the pond at Weir Farm National Historic Site?

Take a closer look.  What may seem like a simple walk to the pond is

actually a complex foray into a cultural landscape.  On Sunday, August 19

from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., join Park Ranger David Low for a new look at this

popular local trail.  Explore the ways people have shaped their natural

environment, and discover sights that often go unexamined--ones which you

may have passed several times and never thought to consider.  You will find

the Pond Trail has many surprises.  There is no fee to participate, but

registration is required.  To register or for more information, please call

(203) 834-1896 ext. 28.  This is not a strenuous hike, but the walk will

consist of standing with short periods of walking.  Bringing a water bottle

and wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.

About Weir Farm

Weir Farm National Historic Site, the only National Park Service site

dedicated to American painting, was home to three generations of American

artists including Julian Alden Weir, a leading figure in American art and

the development of American Impressionism. Today, the 60-acre farm, which

includes the Weir House, Weir and Young Studios, barns, gardens, and Weir

Pond, is one of the nation’s finest remaining landscapes of American art.

For more information about Weir Farm National Historic Site or the National

Park Service, please visit www.nps.gov/wefa or call (203)834-1896.

Kayak to Cockenoe Island on Aug. 18

On Saturday, Saturday, August 18, from 1-3:30 pm the Westport Historical Society is hosting their 3rd annual kayak tour to Cockenoe Island lead by author David Park. The tour group will meet at Longshore Sailing School, Longshore Park, in Westport Connecticut. The cost to participate is $20 for non-members of the Historical Society and $18 for Members. The Raindate is August 19. Kayak rentals are available from Longshore Sailing School, for reservations, call 203-226-4646. Intermediate level kayak ability is required.

Cockenoe Island, is a 28 acre island one mile off the coast of Westport. The tour will be led by David Park, board member of the Norwalk River Watershed Association and author of the guidebook “Kayaking in and around the Norwalk Islands.” This year, the tour is being offered in conjunction with the Westport Historical Society’s current exhibit “The Sound and the Saugatuck” which runs through September 1st.

Cockenoe Island is open to the public thanks to the hundreds of Westport residents and town officials who fought against the proposed construction of a nuclear power plant back in 1967. The plan was brought forward by the United Illuminating Company who had purchased the island a year earlier from the Smith family, the owners of the island at the time. After the plan was defeated, the town of Westport purchased the island as open space and it is now enjoyed by all types of recreational users and nature enthusiasts. The acquisition was heralded as a significant conservation victory for the nation by Life Magazine.

The tour group will land on the island for a stroll and hear about how the Saugatuck River watershed effects the water quality of Long Island Sound and wildlife of the Norwalk Islands. Cockenoe Island is of particular interest because of the current conservation efforts and successful nesting colonies of egrets, herons and terns

Copies of “Kayaking in and around the Norwalk Islands” is available for $10 at the WHS Remarkable Gift Shop, 25 Avery Place in downtown Westport.

About the Westport Historical Society

The Westport Historical Society, founded in 1889, is an educational organization dedicated to preserving, presenting and celebrating the history of Westport, Connecticut. It is committed to increasing awareness of the importance of preserving our town’s heritage and its historic buildings and landmarks.

Wheeler House is the Society’s headquarters, at 25 Avery Place, Westport, Connecticut, was purchased in 1981. The house, built in 1795, was remodeled in the Italianate style in the 19th Century and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Connecticut Register of Historic Places. The house has three Victorian Period rooms and a gift shop. The only octagonal-roof, cobblestone barn in Connecticut, which is on the property, was completely restored over a ten-year period and houses the Museum of Westport History displaying a diorama of the town as it looked toward the end of the 19th Century. For additional information on programs visit www.westporthistory.org.

Free August and September Entertainment in Norwalk

Each Wednesday night throughout the summer, area residents can head to Calf Pasture Beach on Calf Pasture Beach Road in Norwalk (06855) to enjoy an evening of free musical entertainment. A $5.00 parking fee is charged for cars without a Norwalk beach sticker.

8/15 6:00 p.m. Classic Car Show – This gathering of than 100 vehicles is hosted by the
Coachmen Rod and Custom Club, an organization of men and women who enjoy classic cars. Owners of 1981 and older cars can participate in the shows, which attract owners from throughout the tri-state area. Each car show participant is asked to contribute canned food or make a donation to the St. Vincent De Paul food bank.

7:00 p.m. The Barons – Return to the 60s and 70s with one of the tri-state’s hottest “oldies” groups. The Barons are known for their 1963 hits, “Pledge of a Fool”, “Remember Rita” on Epic Records, and “Possibility” on Old Town Records under the name of The Crowns. The Barons have shared the stage with such groups as Brenda Lee, Johnny Maestro & The Brooklyn Bridge, The Tokens, The Drifters, The Shangri-las, Lloyd Price, The Del Vikings, TheTeenagers and The Chantels. The vocalists are Led by Ronnie deAngelis, the vocalists are Doug “Ice” Dorsey, Doug Muller and Francine Rodriguez backed by Tommy Ardise (guitar/arranger), Dom “Cuz” Cardamone (keyboard/bass guitar/drums/saxophone), Barry Nardi (bass note/lead guitar), Michael “Stix” Bossone (drums) and Ron Yovino (bass guitar). www.baronsmusic.com

8/22 7:00 p.m. Gunsmoke – This award-winning band has been entertaining
Country & Western music fans in the Northeast for more than 20 years. The band now is receiving national attention after its performance on “Ernest Tubb’s Midnight Jamboree,” America’s second longest-running radio show, which is broadcast from Nashville, TN, following “The Grand Ole Opry.” Members of the band are Jeff DeMaio (steel guitar), Nick DeMaio Sr. (acoustic guitar), Nick DeMaio III (bass guitar), Gary Tokarz (drums) and Scott Tyler (electric guitar). www.gunsmokeband.com

8/29 7:30 p.m. Rockers & Crooners — Connecticut native Billy Genuario has been
performing professionally since age seven. His engagements have taken him from New York City to Las Vegas to Hong Kong, including appearances at The Rainbow Room, Tropicana Hotel, Disney and MGM Grand Arena. This new show featuring great songs and many humorous impressions is a tribute to some of the best singers and bands of our time.

SEPTEMBER

9/5 6:00 p.m. Classic Car Show – This gathering of than 100 vehicles is hosted by the
Coachmen Rod and Custom Club, an organization of men and women who enjoy classic cars. Owners of 1981 and older cars can participate in the shows, which attract owners from throughout the tri-state area. Each car show participant is asked to contribute canned food or make a donation to the St. Vincent De Paul food bank.

7:00 p.m. Déjà Vu – For ten years, this popular group has been performing “golden oldies” at events from New Haven to New York. The group includes Dominick Muro (lead vocals), Tony Masi (keyboards/lead vocals), Arthur Armstrong (lead vocals), George Gionios (saxophone/vocals), Rocco Castango (drums/vocals), John Skrensky (bass guitar/vocals) and Sal
Salta (lead guitar/vocals).

For updates and additional information call the Norwalk Recreation and Parks Office at
203-854-7807. The rain date for all concerts is the following day. For cancellation information call 203-854-7938.

Sharon Audubon Festival August 11th and 12th

Wendy with Sophia

The 45th annual Sharon Audubon Festival will be taking place at the Sharon Audubon Center, located on Route 4 in Sharon, CT on Saturday and Sunday, August 11th and 12th. The Audubon Festival is an event where people of all ages can learn about nature in a fun and interactive way, and features two full days of nature walks and programs, live animal presentations, children's activities, food, music, exhibits, vendors and more. Whether one is a seasoned naturalist or a young explorer, there are activities for all ages and experience levels.

Two keynote presentations will also take place each day. At 1:00 pm and 3:30 pm on Saturday, Talons will engage visitors with a falconry demonstration. These amazing birds of prey will also be on display throughout the day on Saturday. A live animal show presnted by Rainforest Reptiles known for their dynamic educational programs will take place at 1:00 pm on Sunday afternoon.  The festivities will close on Sunday with Flight of the Raptor, another exciting falconry demonstration back by popular demand.

Erin with a red wing hawk

Scheduled programs take place at 10:00, 10:30, 11:00 and 2:15 each day. Examples of programs include Exploring Bog Meadow by Canoe, Porcupines, Tree Identification Walk, Swarming Behavior of Honey Bees, Bird Banding, Orienteering, Reptiles, Bears, Pressed Flower Bookmarks and much more. Ongoing activities such as a live animal exhibits from the Beardsley Zoo and Wonders on Wheels and the children's Merry Marsh Activity Tent, as well as various vendors, will be on hand throughout each day. Food is also available for purchase.

Gates are open from 9:30am-5: 30pm each day. No pets are allowed inside the gates. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. A complete schedule and description of programs can be found at www.sharon.audubon.org or by calling 860-364-0520 for more information.

Fly and Tour a Legacy – B-17 Returns to Oxford- Waterbury Airport

Flying Fortress

 “Aluminum Overcast," the Experimental Aircraft Association's (EEA) restored B-17 bomber, will descend upon Waterbury-Oxford Airport in Oxford, Connecticut (330 Christian St.) on August 7-8 as part of its 2012 "Salute to Veterans" national tour.  The "Aluminum Overcast" presents an opportunity for the public to experience, firsthand, the allure of this historic war bird on the ground and in flight that helped turn the tide of World War II.

"Aluminum Overcast" brings a living link of aviation's and World War II's past for people of all ages to enjoy. Known as "The Flying Fortress," the B-17 bomber is considered one of the greatest military airplanes ever built and one of the best- known aircraft types of the World War II era.
History comes alive as you step back in time and imagine the role of bombardier, navigator, and waist gunner as you walk around this magnificent aircraft. This authentic and unforgettable experience allows visitors to relive the legacy of the thousands who heroically flew World War II bombing missions.  

Among the original military equipment restored to EAA’s B-17 are the installation of a replica top turret just behind the pilot and co-pilot seats, waist guns located on each side of the bomber, rebuilding the radio compartment (including original communication).

EAA's "Aluminum Overcast" B-17 was built in 1945, but was delivered to the Army Air Corps too late to see active service in World War II.  In 1981 this B-17 was donated to the EAA Aviation Foundation with the provision that the aircraft be maintained in airworthy condition. After being displayed at the EAA Air Venture Museum in Oshkosh, Wis., for a decade, the B-17 made its national tour debut in the spring of 1994.

At each stop, flight "missions" are available.  For more information, including rates for flights and ground tours, visit www.B17.org or contact EAA's B-17 Tour Office at 800-359-6217. Special pre-book rates on flights are available for EAA members and non-members.  Flight purchase is also available on site. 

Don't miss out on the opportunity to take a mission flight or ground tour when Aluminum Overcast comes to Oxford –Waterbury Airport.  

World War II veteran Kenneth Davis looks out of the waist gunner’s window. Davis served on a B-17 in the 15th Air Force, 483rd Bomb Group, 815th Squadron.

Ground Tours 2-5 p.m.;
weather permitting $10 Individual Rate

Family Rate: $20
(adults & children up to age 17; immediate family)

Free: Children under 8
(with paying adult)

Free: Veterans / Active Military  

Mission Flights
10 a.m.-2 p.m., weather permitting
Pre-book
$409	EAA Members
$449	Non-Members
Walk-Up
$435	EAA Members
$475

About The Boeing B-17 "Flying Fortress
The Boeing B-17 "Flying Fortress" is a World War II bomber used primarily in Europe. B-17s from the Eighth Air Force participated in countless missions from bases in England. These missions often lasted for more than eight hours and struck at targets deep within enemy territory. Because of their long-range capability, formations of B-17s often flew into battle with no fighter escort, relying on their own defensive capabilities to ensure a successful mission.

During the war, B-17s were among the most modern aircraft in the U.S. inventory. However, the advent of the jet age and advances in technology made the Flying Fortress obsolete soon after the conclusion of the war. In the years following World War II, most B-17s were cut up for scrap, used in Air Force research or sold on the surplus market.

In 1934, the Boeing Aircraft Company of Seattle, Wash., began construction of a four-engine heavy bomber. Known as the Boeing model 299, it first took flight on July 28, 1935. The government ordered production of 13 of these aircraft, now designated the Y1B-17. Delivery of these first production models was between January 11 and August 4, 1937.

The B-17 received the name "Flying Fortress" from a Seattle reporter who commented on its defensive firepower. The B-17 underwent a number of improvements over its 10-year production span. Models ranged from the YB-17 to the B-17-G model. Throughout the war, the B-17 was refined and improved as battle experience showed the Boeing designers where improvements could be made. 
The final B-17 production model, the B-17G, was produced in larger quantities (8,680) than any previous model and is considered the definitive "Flying Fort." With its 13 .50-caliber machine guns – chin, top, ball and tail turrets; waist and cheek guns – the B-17G was indeed an airplane that earned the respect of its combatants. In addition, air crews liked the B-17 for its ability to withstand heavy combat damage and still return its crew safely home.
Between 1935 and May of 1945, 12,732 B-17s were produced. Of these aircraft, 4,735 were lost during combat missions.

Today, fewer than 100 B-17 airframes exist and fewer still are in airworthy condition. At one time, more than 1,000 B-17s could be assembled for mass combat missions, less than 15 of Boeing's famous bombers can still take to the air.

About EEA
EAA, a non-profit membership organization based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin that embodies the spirit of aviation through the world's most engaged community of aviation enthusiasts. EAA's 170,000 members and 1,000 local chapters enjoy the fun and camaraderie of sharing their passion for flying, building and restoring recreational aircraft. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322) or go to www.eaa.org. For continual news updates, connect with www.twitter.com/EAAupdate.

August Events at the Fairfield History Museum

War of 1812 Exhibit through September For the dog days of summer, why not visit Fairfield Museum and History Center's (www.fairfieldhistory.org) new, special art exhibition, The War of 1812 at Sea: Marine Paintings from the J. Russell Jinishian Gallery collection, Fairfield, Conn. (jrusselljinishiangallery.com).    The exhibition, which will be on display through September 9th, 2012, will chronicle the great sea battles around the War of 1812, some of which occurred off the Connecticut Coast, and will feature dramatic marine paintings and models from art dealer J. Russell Jinishian. The War of 1812 at Sea exhibition will include 16 works, including two intricate models, from some of the most prominent marine artists working today.  The paintings and models in this exhibition capture pivotal moments during the War of 1812, a troubled and dark time for our young nation and for Fairfield as well. In addition to this fascinating exhibit other events hosted by the Museum include the following events. A Docent Meeting on Thursday, August 9 at 2:30 p.m wil introduce participants to Fairfield's past. If you have a knack for telling a good story this program could be just for you.  The Fairfield Museum and History Center hopes to introduce participants to the importance of becoming a docent and sharing the history of Fairfield. Refreshments will be served. For more information and to RSVP, please call Christine Jewell, Director of Education at 203-259-1598. On Saturday, August 18, at 2 p.m. the Fairfield Museum will feature a Town Hall Green Walking Tour that is expected to last one to two hours. On the tour, you wil learn about the fascinating colonial history of Fairfield, including the establishment of the town's original "four squares" in 1639 and the historic British invasion that took place in 1779. Participants will learn about the "witch dunking experiment" at Edward's Pond, the legacy of the Sun Tavern and more.  $7; Members, $5. Please pre-register by calling 203-259-1598. If you find walking an enjoyable way to experience a town center, then make sure to pick up a colorful new brochure at the Museum and follow the nine new signs created jointly by the Museum and the town of Fairfield. Visitors can begin their exploration of this intriguing historic site at the introductory sign adjacent to the Fairfield Museum and History Center and discover the hidden corners of Fairfield's fascinating past. A special summer treat is a tour of the Ogden House built in 1750 on Sundays from 1 pm - 4 pm through September.  Visitors will enjoy docent-led tours of the 1750 Ogden House and see how people lived in the 18th century. The house is furnished with period objects including textiles and fine pieces of furniture with Fairfield provenance. Participants will be invited to take a stroll through the not-to-be-missed kitchen garden, generously maintained by the Fairfield Garden Club, and view plantings used in colonial times.  The Ogden House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is an exceptional survivor of a typical mid-18th century farmhouse. If summer camps are your thing, Fairfield History Museum is also offering a series of camps through August.  Camp goers will explore history and culture in a creative and fun learning environment at the Fairfield Museum and History Center. Programs include sessions about the early settlers and how children lived in the past, through historic house tours, the garden, cooking, games, arts and crafts and more at the 1750 Ogden House and the Fairfield Museum. Campers will explore the secret corners of the house and learn its mysteries! The final day will be spent at the Fairfield Museum where students will experience a day in the life of a student in the 1804 Academy Schoolhouse and learn to use antique tools in the Victorian Barn. For more information and to register, please call 203-259-1598 or visit www.fairfieldhistory.org. The August sessions runs as follows: Session 1:  August 13 – 17    9am – 12pm Grades 1 – 2 Session 2: August 13 – 17       1pm – 4pm Grades 3 - 5 Session 3: August 20 – 24     9am – 12pm Grades 1 – 2 Session 4:  August 20 – 24     1pm –4pm   Grades 3 – 5 $175 Each Session + $50 family membership ABOUT FAIRFIELD MUSEUM AND HISTORY CENTER Fairfield Museum and History Center (www.fairfieldhistory.org) was established in 2007 by the Fairfield Historical Society. The 13,000 square-foot museum presents engaging exhibition galleries, a special collection library and reading room, a family education center, an 80-seat theater overlooking Fairfield's Town Green and a delightful museum shop.  The Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving and interpreting the history of Fairfield, Connecticut and surrounding regions for present and future generations.  The Museum provides educational programs to schools in and around Fairfield County, and helps to enrich the cultural and social life of the area.  The Museum has quickly become an integral part of Fairfield, serving nearly 18,000 visitors a year.

Art is Timeless at the Peter Lawrence Gallery

Peter Lawrence Gallery is presenting a new exhibit, “Art is Timeless” that will feature functional art/clocks by Michael Johnston and oils, watercolors and ceramics by Jessie Novik.
The exhibit runs from Friday, August 3 to Sunday, September 2 with an opening reception on Sunday, August 5 from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Refreshments will be provided by Johnny’s New Fairfield Food Center.

Clock by Michael Johnson

Michael Johnston of Norwalk, CT is a muralist and street artist. This art form drove Michael’s passion to understand the vast dimensions, styles and genres of art. He realized his own personal obsession with sharp edges, technical designs, futuristic concepts, mechanical images, and clocks could all be channeled into his art. Using recycled and discarded materials whenever possible, often times old electronics, Michael tries to convey movement, flow, and continuity in his art. He considers himself an abstract expressionist, frequently utilizing additive sculpture to intensify and bring to life thoughts and ideas.

Village by Jessie Novik

Jessie Novik has been inspired by the many places she’s traveled, including a hike up to Machu Picchu, exploring rice fields in Bali, camping with Bedouins in Sinai, and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. She is an artist and a craftswoman, and states, “No matter what is my vehicle, I will always make art, and I cannot wait to acquire new methods for birthing my overactive imagination.”

About the Peter Lawrence Gallery

Peter Lawrence Gallery is located at 703 Kent Road (Rt. 7), Gaylordsville, Connecticut, and is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12:00pm to 5:00pm, or by appointment. For more information please contact Peter at 203-746-5533 or by email at peterlawrencegallery@ymail.com or www.peterlawrencegallery.com. For area information visit www.litchfieldhills.com.

Structural Perspectives: Greenwich Community Artists Series at Historical Society through September

Structural Perspectives, an exhibition featuring artists Michael Chait, Lily McCarthy and Heather Sandifer, will be on view through September 5, 2012, at the Greenwich Historical Society's Storehouse Gallery Museum Shop.

The exhibition features works that examine intricate forms and explores how visual themes occur and repeat in both organic and manmade contexts. From recurring natural forms, to the relationship of natural and manmade objects in the framework of a still life, to the juxtaposition of angles in architecture, each artist interprets and explores structure from a unique perspective.

The Community Artists series was established to support and encourage contemporary local artists by offering a welcoming venue for the exhibition of their work in a historic setting. All works on display will be available for purchase with a portion of the proceeds going to benefit the Greenwich Historical Society.

The show may be viewed at the Historical Society's Storehouse Museum Shop, Wednesday through Sunday, from noon to 4:00 pm. Admission to the Museum Shop is free. For more information and to read artists' statements, visit www.greenwichhistory.org.

For area information visit www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

Explore the Shore and the Sound at the Bruce Museum Seaside Center

Seaside Center

The Bruce Museum Seaside Center is an environmental and cultural facility located in the Innis Arden Cottage on Greenwich Point, one of the East Coast's most scenic coastlines. During summer months, Seaside Center personnel encourage Point visitors to drop-in and explore the local shore and marine life.

Daily activities at the Seaside Center may include guided nature walks which incorporate the geology and ecology of Greenwich Point; study and identification of Greenwich Point flora and fauna; marine organism anatomy dissections; plankton viewing with microscopes; arts and crafts; and much more!

Guests can also enjoy the Seaside Center's facilities at their own leisurely pace viewing the dioramas, interactive exhibits, and live specimens in the marine-life touch tank and aquariums.

Open through September 2, with special events scheduled throughout the year, regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Beach passes are required for entrance into Greenwich Point. Fees for non-residents are $5 per person plus $20 for parking. For additional information call the Bruce Museum at 203 869-0376 or visit the website at www.brucemuseum.org.

Tri-Arts Theatre's Patio Cabarets July 21-27

Fun at The new Patio at Sharon Playhouse Photo credit: Sean Bemand

TriArts Sharon Playhouse has announced a new venue for summer fun...Patio Cabarets!  The entertainment will take place on the new covered patio attached to the Sharon Playhouse. Patio cabarets will feature the talented production cast members from The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Altar Boyz. Cabarets will commence after the regular main stage performance on selected dates. The performers will be singing material of their own: Broadway, standards, pop, country...you'll hear it all!

Tri-Arts is always looking for new ways to make the Sharon Playhouse a place that people can enjoy and with this new beautiful patio and bar area it is a winning combination.  Patrons are encouraged to arrive at the Playhouse early for a bite to eat and then (on certain nights) stay late to enjoy the tremendous talents of the casts.

Fun At TriArts Photo credit: Sean Bemand

As all theatre goers know, sometimes actors don't have the ability to showcase their full talents in any given production role. The conviviality inspired by patio cabarets will both allow incredible performers to impress with their myriad skills, as well as continue to find ways for audiences and artists to mingle."

The environment is casual and the bar will be open; stay for a few minutes or for the entire hour.
Patio Cabarets will take place on Saturday July 21st, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, July 25th; 26th and 27th. There is no charge and you will have the chance to meet the cast.

Photo credit: Sean Bemand

Upcoming Shows
The 2012 Summer Season at TriArts Sharon Playhouse continues with The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas starring Adinah Alexander, the award-winning musical Altar Boyz (July 20-29) and Rodgers and Hammerstein's The Sound of Music (August 9-26).

About TriArts Sharon Playhouse

TriArts Sharon Playhouse (Alice Bemand, Executive Director; Michael Berkeley and John Simpkins, Artistic Directors) is a not-for-profit theatre, located in Litchfield Hills, Sharon, CT.  In addition to producing mainstage musicals and many special events each summer season, TriArts also offers a summer youth theatre program, workshops and readings of new musicals, concerts, and special events throughout the year in its Bok Gallery.  For more information on TriArts Sharon Playhouse, please visit www.triarts.net or call 860-364-SHOW (7469).

Civil War Living History Encampment in Easton

Company F of the 14th Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Infantry The Historical Society of Easton is celebrating the 151st Anniversary of the Civil War on Saturday, July 21st from 10 AM to 3 PM with a Civil War Encampment Day at the Bradley-Hubbell House located at 535 Black Rock Turnpike, Easton. The Encampment will consist of soldiers and civilian re-enactors from Company F of the 14th Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Infantry that will portray the original 14th CVI's daily life and activities. Of all the regiments Connecticut sent to the Union armies in the Civil War, the most famous was the 14th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry. The regiment marched and fought with Lincoln's Army, the Army of the Potomac and participated in 34 battles and skirmishes. The 14th Connecticut lost more men killed in battle, in proportion to its size, and captured more prisoners, cannon and battle flags than any other Connecticut regiment. The re-enactment will provide a glimpse into the daily life of the 14th CVI starting with a military drill and firing demonstrations, preparation for the noon meal on an open fire pit as well as a presentation of camp skills such as rifle loading, knapsack and blanket rolling. Civilian women will present how the home front helped the North win the war and demonstrate medical care and family life during the conflict. Additionally, period children's games will run throughout the day. Music of the period will be highlighted at 1 PM with vocal pieces led by Jen Eastman – Lawrence that depict the popular mood and sentiment of the antebellum, war-time and post- Civil War periods. Following the musical performance, a brief discussion by Jeff Lawrence about the origins of modern baseball will take place. "The Massachusetts Game", one variant codified in 1858, will be demonstrated on the Bradley-Hubbell grounds and open to public participation! A popular misconception of the Civil War is that exclusively white Anglo-Saxons fought it, but many ethnic groups took part in this great struggle. However, few people are aware that the Chinese were among them and the highest ranking of those, Joseph Pierce, fought with the 14th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry. Irving Moy will present a program about Pierce's Civil War experience along with Gary Horton, retired teacher and historian. Company F is unique in offering both the military and civilian aspects of the Civil War Era. For more information about them visit their web site: www.cof14thcvi.com. Admission to the daylong event is $5.00 per person. About the Easton Historical Society The program's sponsor, The Historical Society of Easton manages two historic properties: the Adams Schoolhouse (c. 1850) and the Bradley-Hubbell House and Farmstead (c. 1816) listed on the National Register. For more information call the Society at (203) 261-2090. www.historicalsocietyofeastonct.org. For area information visit www.visitwesternct.com

New England’s oldest house tour, Open House Day in Litchfield, Connecticut, July 14

Litchfield Center On the National Register of Historic Places (Photo J. McElholm)

Litchfield celebrates its 65^th anniversary on Saturday, July 14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the rare chance to visit five prize private properties in the early New England town that is famous for its grand and elegant homes. An impressive roster of homes with architectural and historical distinction is being assembled for this special year. Proceeds benefit Connecticut Junior Republic (CJR), an organization dedicated to helping troubled youths.

The Litchfield History Museum and the Tapping Reeve House and Law School, the first law school in America, will also be included in the admission price of the Tour.  The History Museum is featuring a new exhibition, The Hour of Conflict; marking the anniversary of the Civil War by examining the ways the war im­pacted the residents of Litchfield in the 1860s. The museum will also feature a juried art show sponsored by the Litchfield Visual Arts.

Tapping Reeve House and Law School

 

A Preview Tour will be offered Friday, July 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. followed by a cocktail reception in a private home.

Litchfield Aid of CJR, an organization founded in 1911 by 12 Litchfield women to help support the programs and facilities of the Connecticut Junior Republic, sponsors the annual tour.

HOUSE TOUR INFORMATION

The self-guided house tour begins at 10 a.m. on July 14 the Information Booth on the Litchfield Green, where tickets may be purchased for $35. Advance purchase tickets, $30, may be ordered by mail from Litchfield Aid of CJR, P.O. Box 214, Litchfield, Connecticut 06759.  A stamped, self-addressed envelope should be included with credit card information (Mastercard or Visa only), check or money order, made payable to Litchfield Aid of CJR.  Ticket information for the Preview Tour and Party may be obtained by calling the Connecticut Junior Republic, 869-567-9423.

For details of the 65^th Annual Open House Tour and ticket information for the Preview Tour and Party, contact the Connecticut Junior Republic at (860) 567-9423, between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM, or visit www.litchfieldct.com/cjr/tour.html. 

For information about nearby events and a free copy of UNWIND, a 112-page color guide to lodging, dining and all the attractions in the Litchfield Hills, contact the Western Connecticut Visitors Bureau, PO Box 968, Litchfield, CT 06759, (860) 567-4506, or visit their web site at www.litchfieldhills.com

A Duo of Two Revolutionary Events July 7

The Burning of Fairfield 223 Year Commemoration & Walking Tour

On Saturday, July 7th the Fairfield Museum and History Center has planned an evening walking tour from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm to commemorate the 1779 Burning of Fairfield.

On July 7, 1779, the people of Fairfield awoke to a warning shot from the fort at Black Rock, signaling that a British fleet was spotted off the coast.    For two days, Fairfield was under British attack with troops burning virtually all its buildings.
This attack was actually one of three attacks, including New Haven and Norwalk, along the Connecticut coastline.
Following the Burning of Fairfield in 1779, there was ongoing worry among citizens about a repeat attack and this concern eventually led to the construction of the Powderhouse in Fairfield, which is located behind the site of Tomlinson Middle School.

This year marks the 223 rd. anniversary date of the destruction of Fairfield by British troops. This year, the animated walking tour brings to life an exciting piece of Fairfield's history and will include stops at various homes on or adjacent to the town green with actors portraying prominent citizens. The event is so authentic that actual letters and depositions from 1779 are used. This is living history in action because you can hear the actual dramatic words of Fairfield citizens who were witnesses to the burning of Fairfield.

The rain or shine walking tour will begin at the Fairfield Museum and History Center, located at 370 Beach Road in Fairfield.  Each tour is $5 for museum members and $8 for non-members.

The Fairfield Museum is located at 370 Beach Road in Fairfield, CT. Hours are Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is free for members, $5 for adults, $3 for students and free for children age 5 and under.  For more information on exhibits and upcoming programs, visit www.fairfieldhs.org or call the Fairfield Museum at 203-259-1598.  The Museum annually hosts more than 18,000 visitors. For Area information www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com.

Hopkins Vineyard Celebrates 225 Years

On July 7 from noon to 5pm (rain date July 8th) Hopkins Vineyard, a National Bi-Centennial Farm (25 Hopkins Rd.) located in New Preston Connecticut will be celebrating 225 years of ownership by the same family.

The Hopkins Family has organized the Heritage Festival and is inviting the general public to come and experience this colonial themed event for free! The Heritage Festival, will be replete with music and costumes representing the year 1787.

In 1787, Elijah Hopkins, returning from the Revolutionary War, chose this rich and fertile site on Lake Waramaug to settle his family and start the Hopkins Farm. The farm, has witnessed many diversified forms of agriculture over the years including the raising of sheep, racehorses, grain crops, tobacco, and in the more recent past dairy farming.

In 1979, Bill Hopkins planted the first vines and converted his 19th century barn into a state-of-the-art winery that overlooks the serene waters of beautiful Lake Waramaug. The rest is award winning winemaking history.

Now in business for over 30 years this premier Connecticut Vineyard is celebrating its' heritage in style. The events from noon to 5 pm at the Heritage Festival will include: Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard Parade at Noon followed by a Proclamation of the Anniversary, honoring American Patriot, Elijah Hopkins. Adding ambience to the festival, there will be 18th Century Music by Hanford & Finlay, who will play Tavern Songs in addition to performing a family program called "In the Good Old Colony Days". There will be quilting, spinning and weaving, candle making, rope making, black smithing, kettle corn and open fire cooking displays. The festival will have plenty of fun children's activities and games that will be provided by the Charles Merriman Society. The DAR will be on hand to help with genealogy research and an interesting selection of Colonial Era Arts and Crafts will be for sale.  Refreshments, baked goods and food catered by the Hopkins Inn will also be available.

For more information visit www.hopkinsvineyard.com/. For area information and places to shop, stay and dine visit www.litchfieldhills.com.