Farm to Flanders – The Ultimate Gourmet Picnic & Auction

Flanders Nature Center in Woodbury has announced a special event, Farm to Flanders – The Ultimate Gourmet Picnic & Auction, that will take place on Sunday, August 22, 2021, on the beautiful grounds of its Van Vleck Farm & Nature Sanctuary in Woodbury. This important annual fundraiser will bring together a devoted crowd of Flanders advocates for a fun send-off to summer with cocktails and delicious food sourced from local farms and prepared by famous local chefs.

The multi-course meal packaged in a cooler tote you get to keep will be prepared by renowned chefs using local, farm-fresh ingredients. This year’s event chefs include coordinating chefs John Bourdeau of The Owl Wine & Food Bar and Carlos Perez of @ the Corner Restaurant & Pub as well as Michael Bates-Walsh of 1754 House Inn & Restaurant, Carol Byer-Alcorace of Sanctuary Kitchen at CitySeed, Dennis DeBellis of John's Café, Adam Lebow of Adam's Baking Company, Clark Neugold of The Foundry Kitchen & Tavern, Chris Prosperi of Metro Bis Restaurant, Karen Rotella & NVCC Culinary Students, Dave Will of El Coyote Restaurant, and Tom Zaccara of The Bull's Bridge Inn. 

Attendees can spread their blanket and enjoy their meal at one of two themed picnic sites, the Van Vleck Farm Field and/or the Sugar House Gardens. As guests savor their meal, they can enjoy live bluegrass music performed by local favorites Sweetcake Mountain & Friends at the Van Vleck Farm Field. Up at the Sugar House Gardens guests will listen to the smooth sounds of the Rachel Merriam Trio as well as the Main Street String Quartet. A wagon ride shuttle will make it possible for guests to explore more of the 200-acre sanctuary and visit both unique picnic sites. 

An auction of unique items and experiences is also part of this year’s event. The auction is online, so anyone can bid and has a chance to win! Some of the items up for bid include a private dinner party for 12 in the exclusive private dining room of the famed James Beard House, a South African Photo Safari for 2 at Zulu Nyala Game Lodge, and a beautiful winter painting at the Hollow by local artist Tom Adkins! To check out all the fabulous auction items and to start bidding go to: https://www.32auctions.com/FarmtoFlanders2021. 

Farm to Flanders – The Ultimate Gourmet Picnic & Auction tickets must be purchased in advance. The cost is $85 per person and meals are limited. Additional items are available for purchase such as a children’s meal, a bouquet of flowers, wine from Walker Roads Winery, beer from Woodbury Brewing Company, and spirits from Litchfield Distillery. The meals can be picked up on Sunday, August 22nd between 1PM and 4PM. Guests can enjoy the live music and entertainment starting at 2PM until 6PM. 

The event was sold out last year so people are encouraged to purchase their tickets early. To purchase tickets or donate go to www.flandersnaturecenter.org or call the Flanders office at (203) 263-3711.

About Flanders Nature & Land Trust

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust is a nonprofit organization that focuses on environmental education, and on the acquisition, conservation, and stewardship of open space. Through its land trust initiatives, Flanders actively works to protect important natural sites and the area’s landscape character and quality of life. Flanders manages over 2,400 acres of preserved land in Woodbury and neighboring towns. Educational programs for children and adults are offered at the Van Vleck Farm Sanctuary, Flanders’ main campus in Woodbury. Trails at its major nature preserves are open to the public at no charge from dawn to dusk. For more information, call 203-263-3711 or flandersnaturecenter.org

Kids are Free @ CT's Beardsley Zoo

There is still time to visit Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo. The Zoo is participating in Connecticut's Kids are Free Program that welcomes kids and an accompanying adult to enjoy the zoo for free. New tickets are released at beardsleyzoo.org every Saturday evening for the following week. We want everyone to have a chance to visit this summer!

A highlight of any visit is to catch a glimpse of the Zoo's newest resident, the Giant Anteater's pup that was born June 15! Giant anteaters are listed as vulnerable to extinction, due to habitat destruction, hunting and road kills. The Beardsley Zoo is proud to be one of the AZA-accredited zoos working to increase their numbers through the Species Survival Plan.

Don't forget your camera as the Zoo is also hosting its third annual photography contest. "Photography Goes Wild," sponsored by Milford Photo, will be a hybrid event this year, combining digital submissions with an in-person exhibition. Photo submissions are due by September 12. You can find rules and information on how to submit your photos on the Zoo's website.

A special perk for kids is the Chris Rowlands shows at 11 am 1 pm and 3 pm that takes place daily through August 8. Rowlands brings animals to life through song, dance, puppets, and colorful props, to teach children about animals and their habitats. Children are invited to wear fun hats and sing along with Rowlands on stage as he shares his self-penned songs. All Rowlands’ performances will be free with paid admission to the Zoo.

Summer Fun Abounds @ Weekend in Norfolk July 30, 31 and August 1

 Summer brings family road trips, ice cream sundaes, and playing water tag. One of the best warm-weather activities for families that want to bond and have fun at the same time is to attend a festival like Weekend in Norfolk (WIN). This town-wide celebration was created to offer something for everyone, with activities that won't break the bank, because all are free! 

From an exciting water soccer event, and chalk painting sidewalks with professional artists, to visiting real-life New England farms, and live music galore, there is something to please every member of your family. This year WIN is being held throughout the timeless town of Norfolk on Friday, July 30, Saturday, July 31, and Sunday, August 1. 

If you plan on getting out with your kids this weekend, here is a list of some of the activities WIN is offering to help you plan your visit.

On Friday, July 30, give your kids the lay of the land, by taking a short walk around Norfolk Green, one of the most beautiful in the state. The fountain at the south end of the green is picture-perfect. The marble fountain was designed by famous architect Stanford White in 1889 and has two basins including one for small animals! At 4:30 p.m. it is time to team up and head to the bocce court to test your throwing skills. At 5 p.m. there will be a live performance at nearby Station Place where you can grab a snack and listen to the music of the Grantville Dawgs. The Animal Embassy arrives at 6:30 p.m. and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser because it offers a hands-on experience with a variety of live animals that have been rescued. During this interactive program, your kids will learn about the diversity of life in a fun and entertaining way. And, at the same time and place, there will be all kinds of lawn games to enjoy!

The fun begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 31 with the Farmers Market offers fresh fruit and vegetables as well as an interesting array of arts and crafts. Just for Weekend in Norfolk, there’ll be an equestrian parade, starting at the market at 11 a.m. If your children love water, don't miss the popular fire hose water soccer game that begins at 1 p.m. at the Town Playing Field on Mountain Road. For the budding artist in your family, head to the sidewalk painting area at Robertson Plaza in Station Place at 3 p.m. and let your imagination soar. Artist Susan Anderson well known for her pet portraits and scenic paintings will be on hand to offer stylistic tips and advice. The afternoon is rounded out by live music by Michael Cobb at Station Place beginning at 5 p.m. 

Sunday is Farm Funday with a special visit to each of Norfolk's four farms. Start the day at Husky Meadow Farms where kids will see fields, barns, an ancient orchard, and greenhouses. Kids can watch how bees pollinate the crops and learn how vegetables and fruits are grown organically. At Autumn Harvest Orchard, a highlight is to learn about beekeeping when visiting the hives at the orchard's apiary. Lost Ruby Farm is perfect for the animal lovers in your family. Here kids will get a sneak peek at the farm resident Saanen goats, a breed from Switzerland, plus chickens, pigs, and heritage breed turkeys. If you love tomatoes, stop in at Broad Field Farm to learn how they grow their heirloom tomatoes and to meet their two adorable farm dogs.

If you want to take a break from the self-guided farm tour, there is a nature walk of the North Swamp Trail at 10 a.m. and a photography session that will start out on Norfolk Green. For art lovers, there is a painting demonstration by watercolor artist Pamela Harnois at 1 p.m. in front of a wonderful arts and crafts shop, the Guilded Artisan, at 3 Station Place. To try out your artistic skills under the guidance of professional artist Turi Rostad head to Robertson Plaza, Station Place at 2 p.m. to try your hand at the sidewalk chalk painting event. WIN's final concert, beginning at 4 p.m., features the acoustic music of singer, songwriter Jamal Ford-Bey.

For up to the minute details about Weekend in Norfolk, visit the website to plan your perfect family road trip to Norfolk, Connecticut, and don't forget to bring your camera!

 

Native American Green Corn Festival August 15 in Washington Connecticut

 Corn is an integral part of the annual lifecycle of Native American people. Traditionally, corn was an important source of food, as well as a significant element of religious and ceremonial life that brought communities together. For generations, many Native American communities have welcomed the season when corn ripens with a celebration. In recognition of this time-honored tradition, the Institute for American Indian Studies, located in Washington, CT, is holding their 16^th annual Green Corn Festival on August 15 from Noon to 4:00 pm at the Riverwalk Pavilion, 11a School Street, in Washington, CT. 

Join Museum Staff and Friends as they welcome the first corn of the summer 2021 season with music, drumming, dancing, children’s activities, stories by a professional Native American Storyteller, the sale of arts and crafts, and much more! Riverwalk Pavilion is an idyllic park just minutes from Washington Depot with plenty of parking, a beautiful park, and tables and chairs in a sheltered wooden pavilion.

A highlight of the Green Corn Festival event is the Native Nations Dance Troupe led by Erin Meeches, from the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation. Each dance performed has an uplifting and unique story or purpose. Some use movements that imitate animals and others represent an aspect of cultural significance. These traditional dances are sure to delight because they evoke the beauty, honor, and tradition of Native People.

A special treat of the Green Corn Festival is the chance to try authentic powwow-styled food such as the perennial favorite, frybread, three sisters rice, butternut squash and corn, chicken tacos and kabob, chicken over rice, fruit cups, and fresh fruit kabobs. There will also be several venison choices including venison over rice, venison cheesesteaks, venison kabobs, and tacos. If you work up a thirst, don’t miss the blueberry and sassafras tea!

 

If you enjoy shopping for handmade Native American arts and crafts, you won’t be disappointed. Vendors will be on hand selling everything from handmade jewelry and flutes to baskets, weavings, and much more.    

         

 

About Green Corn

The expression “Green Corn” refers to the first ripened sweet corn that you can eat. The Green Corn Ceremony is marked with dancing, feasting, fasting, and religious observations. In the Eastern Woodland areas, Native people depended on three staples – corn, beans, and squash. These food items were so important that they were called “The Three Sisters.” The Three Sisters were mixed together to make a vegetable dish called succotash that is still popular today.

 

Admission for this event, held rain or shine is $10 for adults; and $ 5 for Members, and free for children under 12. Pre-registration is greatly appreciated for this event by visiting the Institute’s website.

 

About Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16^th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

 

Experience a New England Clam Bake On Sheffield Island Every Tuesday in August

 New England clambakes are one of the pleasures of summer with their classic combination of lobster and clams fresh from the ocean, corn on the cob, and potatoes. The Norwalk Seaport Association's New England Clambake on Sheffield Island is one of the best places to experience this time-honored seafood feast!

On Tuesdays, August 3, 10,17, 24, and 31 the Norwalk Seaport Association is offering the foodie event of the summer, a Clambake on Sheffield Island - at prices that won't break the bank! Get ready to board the Seaport's ferry at 6 p.m. and head to Sheffield Island. The vessel only holds 49 people, so this culinary adventure is delightfully fun and not overcrowded! Reaching the private island, tour the historic ten-room Sheffield Island Lighthouse that is on the National Register of Historic Places, see the outline of Manhattan and the beautiful coast of Connecticut through an antique telescope and take a walk along a nature trail that is part of the Stewart B. McKinney Nature Sanctuary. 

If you have worked up an appetite, no worries, the Norwalk Seaport Association is serving up a feast that will be enjoyed in a beautiful wooden pavilion with picnic tables, fans, lighting, and, best of all, unbeatable views! 

The Seaport Association offers three packages a clambake package @ $75 that offers a selection of chicken, salmon rib eye, pork, or vegetarian choices, and a lobster bake package at $85 whose main entree is a 1.5 lb. lobster with all the fixings. There are even ale Carte additions like Copps Island Oysters, fresh off the boat from Norwalk, littleneck clams, and a jumbo shrimp cocktail. Don't forget to BYOB so that you can enjoy this feast sipping your favorite wine or beer as you watch the sun sink into the horizon. Reservations must be made in advance. For more information and to buy your tickets click here.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

Celebrate the Music of Billy Joel with Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot and More @Norwalk Oyster Festival 2021 September 10, 11, and 12

 Three days of fun, food, and dazzling free entertainment on multiple stages, plus a myriad of special events for families and friends, from nine to ninety marks just some of the activities planned for the 2021 Norwalk Oyster Festival hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association on Friday, September 10, Saturday, September 11, and Sunday, September 12, 2021, at the 35-acre Veterans Memorial Park in Norwalk. For tickets and information https://www.seaport.org/norwalk-oyster-festival

A fabulous festival seaside!

“We are so happy to be able to welcome people back to this year's Norwalk Oyster Festival, an event that has brought families and friends together for 43 years. Our volunteers have been working around the clock to make this year’s festival extra special because we know people have been looking forward to it since last year. The 43rd Norwalk Oyster Festival is packed with value-added extras this year especially when you consider that all the entertainment including the headliners' Mike DelGuidice who performs with Billy Joel and Big Shot, Eliot Lewis from Hall and Oates, and Live at Daryl’s House, nationally and internationally acclaimed SteelHeart, the Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Band, and many other top-notch bands are included in the ticket price,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. For tickets click https://www.seaport.org. 

SteelHeart loved around the world for high octane performances

Friday, September 10, Entertainment Line Up

Headliner, September 10 - SteelHeart - Nationally and Internationally Acclaimed @ 8:30 p.m.

The headliner of the evening, SteelHeart, originally from Norwalk, takes the stage, at 8:30 p.m. This nationally and internationally acclaimed rock band is celebrating the 30th anniversary of their self-titled debut album. SteelHeart released in 1989. This album catapulted this band into immediate commercial success reaching #40 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album quickly hit platinum status internationally, and gold domestically. “She’s Gone,” a soulful power ballad hit #1 on the international charts staying there for 17 weeks. The band's second single, “I’ll Never Let You Go (Angel Eyes),” reached #14 on the Billboard charts. In 2001, lead singer, Miljenko Matijevic provided all of the vocals for Mark Wahlberg’s character in the hit movie Rock Star. SteelHeart has released five studio albums and is working on a compilation album to celebrate their 30 years of globetrotting, and high octane, live performances.

Friday, September 10, Opening Act, Eliot Lewis - Of Hall and Oates & Live @ Daryl’s House @ 7 p.m.

Friday night kicks off at 7 p.m. with the music of multi-instrumentalist Eliot Lewis, a Norwalk native who is a member of Hall and Oates, one of the most famous duos in the world inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Lewis is also a solo performer that has consistently released his unique brand of guitar featured rock and soul. He is best known as the only musician to appear on every episode of the hugely popular “Live from Daryl’s House” show. Lewis has also performed with many popular artists such as Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, Joe Walsh of the Eagles, Booker T, Jewel, and Todd Rundgren, to name a few. Daryl Hall summarizes Lewis’s talent best, “Eliot is a musician who can do it all, great singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He rocks and he’s got, soul. No one does it quite like him.”  

Saturday, September 11, 2021 - Entertainment Line Up

 

Headliner, Saturday, September 11– Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot Celebrating the Music of Billy Joel & More @ 8:30 pm 

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is one of New England's most iconic festivals which is why Mike DelGuidice, a multi-instrumentalist, and vocalist touring with Rock N Roll Legend, Billy Joel is taking a night off from his touring schedule to perform with his band, Big Shot on Sept. 11 at 8:30 pm. Mike DelGuidice was handpicked and hired by Billy Joel himself. After Billy Joel heard Mike sing, he hired him, literally on the spot to be in his band. Mike is probably one of the few artists around where the front guy of the band is actually in the band of the artist his band covers! While on tour with Billy Joel, DelGuidice has shared the stage with Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Bryan Adams, Tony Bennett, Paul Simon, John Mayer, John Mellencamp, and Adam Levine, to name a few.

Mike DelGuidice an extraordinary musician and performer 

DelGuidice is an extraordinarily talented musician. In addition to his eclectic original songs, he will astonish you will renditions of songs by Elton John, Van Morrison, Billy Joel, Paul McCartney, Marc Cohn, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, John Denver, Sting, James Taylor, Chicago, and many others. DelGuidice is a world-class vocalist and can sing just about anything. DelGuidice’s band, Big Shot includes Tommy Byrnes, Billy Joel's guitarist, drummer Chris Milillo who performed with the Stone Temple Pilots and others, Nick Dimichino, on bass, who most recently played with Nine Days, and, Michael Jewell, one of the countries most accomplished keyboardists who performed with Barbara Streisand, and Michael Bolton,  

 

In addition to touring with Billy Joel and his band, Big Shot, DelGuidice has released two albums, "My Street," and "Miller Place," and is working on a third. Mike also scored the theme song, "Ordinary Guy," for the sitcom, "Kevin Can Wait," starring actor/comedian, Kevin James.

DelGuidice and Big Shot packs hit after chart topping hit in an amazingly high-energy show that leaves audiences wanting more. “We are thrilled that DelGuidice is taking a night off from touring with Billy Joel and performing at this years’ Oyster Festival. DelGuidice's stature as a well-known worldwide performer makes his band highly sought after because they are such crowd-pleasers. After all, Billy Joel himself handpicked DelGuidice. We are thrilled that he will be rocking the 43rd Oyster Festival on Saturday night," says Mike Reilly, Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. "We would also, once again, like to acknowledge that First County Bank is our presenting sponsor for the tenth year in a row.”

Singer-Songwriter Alex Shillo always entertaining

Opening Act, Saturday, September 11 - Alex Shillo - Singer/Songwriter @ 7 p.m.

Alex Shillo takes the stage at 7:00 p.m. with his eclectic brand of rock and country music to get Saturday night rocking with a nod to his hero, Bruce Springsteen. Shillo's band is composed of top-notch musicians, that have performed with such artists as Clarence Clemons of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Johnny Mathis, Gloria Gaynor, and John Cafferty to name a few. Alex and his band have opened for major acts like Big & Rich, Eric Church, Parmalee, and many others. Shillo finds inspiration from his father and is following in his footsteps. Shillo’s dad was the founder/lead singer/songwriter of the late 70s and 80s band SILVERADO who toured the world with Steppenwolf and others and had hit songs on the Billboard charts. Shillo has been enthralled by music since a very early age and his performances show a depth of style and experience. Recently, Shillo released an album, "Friday Night ” that shows his sound is matched by his excellent songwriting skills.

It is always 5 p.m. somewhere with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirates Beach Band

Saturday, September 11 - Jimmy Kenny and the Pirates Beach Band  @ 2 p.m.

On Saturday afternoon get ready to escape to “Margaretaville” at the Norwalk Oyster Festival with the always-popular Jimmy Kenny and the Pirates Beach Band - the ultimate beach party tribute to Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and the Zac Brown Band. Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band plugs in and lights up the stage at 2 p.m...after all, it is almost 5 o’clock somewhere! The good-time vibe of this band will put you in an endless summer state of mind. So put on your best “Parrothead” gear - your favorite Hawaiian shirt, straw hat, and flip-flops, grab some food and drinks from one of our nearby vendors and get ready to sing and dance along to some of the best of Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and the Zac Brown Band plus a variety of country favorites, summer pop, reggae, and tropical classics.

Sunday, September 12 - Entertainment Line Up The Best of Connecticut & More!

 

Local music is the heart and soul of every big city and small community. Every musician starts off somewhere, and that somewhere is usually local. Art and music in all its iterations thrive on interaction, and with all concerts shuttered last year, most folks were left without experiencing the excitement of live entertainment. "We know that people have missed going out to see their favorite regional and local bands, which is why we have organized a series of non-stop performances by Connecticut and tri-state area bands on Sunday," said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. "We are happy to give our local musicians center stage to welcome them back to the entertainment industry at this year’s Norwalk Oyster Festival."

Artifact Identification Day @ Institute For American Indian Studies

Do you have any stone artifacts or Northeastern Native American cultural items that you would like to have identified? Do you want to know about the, who... what, how, and when of your mystery items? If you do, then register to participate in Artifact ID Day at the Institute for American Indian Studies with Dr. Lucianne Lavin on Sunday, July 25 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

This program will be in small groups of people with one-hour time slots. The cost to participate is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, $11 for children, and $5 for members. To register click here and if you have questions please call 860-868-0518. 

Dr. Lavin is the author of Connecticut's Indigenous Peoples: “What Archaeology, History, and Oral Traditions Teach Us About Their Communities and Cultures." and, "Dutch and Indigenous Communities in Seventeenth-Century Northeastern North America: What Archaeology, History, and Indigenous Oral Traditions Teach Us About Their Intercultural Relationships."

This event will give participants to learn about the objects that they have questions about with an expert in this field of archaeological and cultural study. Dr. Lavin will provide interesting insights and commentary on your items but will not appraise or speculate about the value of an object. 

To better identify your object, you should have some information available. If a family member gave it to you, ask them for any details they might remember. To better identify your object, it is helpful to know the general location of where it was found. For cultural artifacts, it is helpful to know approximately when it was found. 

This program features a mix of commentary and the methods of stone and cultural artifact identification in a manner that is useful to newcomers, hobbyists, collectors, the curious, archaeologists, and researchers. 

About Institute for American Indian Studies 

Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

Learn A Technique Used by Archeologists on Saturday, June 26, 2021

If you are interested in learning about the techniques used by archaeologists then register for the Flotation Workshop being held at the Institute for American Indian Studies​ located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington, Connecticut on Saturday, June 26 from 12 noon to 4 p.m. To register click here. Space is limited for this program and pre-registration is required. For additional questions, call 860-868-0518 or email events@iaismuseum.org.

Not all of the information archaeologists learn about the past comes from artifacts. Some of the most telling information can come from the dirt. When things like hearths, or burned areas are found the soil is removed and packed up to be taken back to the lab. This is done so that all of the soil can be saved.

In the lab, the dried soil is placed in a tub that has been filled with water. The lighter organic materials "float," which gives this technique its name. The remaining soil is run through a series of sieves that catch even the finest materials. This technique is used to find charcoal, fish scales, nut fragments, and even grass seeds. These small bits can tell archaeologists so much!

Participants in this workshop will join the Institute's Research Department for an in-depth demonstration of this useful technique. A highlight of this program is the chance to try this process out for yourself.

About The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS)

Located on 15 woodland acres the IAIS preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. We have an outdoor replicated 16th c. Algonkian Village, the award- winning Wigwam Escape, and a Museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut.

 

Family Nature Hour @ White Memorial Foundation...Looking Under Rocks!

Turning over logs in the woods is like nature’s ultimate treasure hunt; you just never know what is going to be hiding under them! Join Education Director Carrie Szwed at White Memorial Conservation Center on Thursday, June 24 from 4 to 5 pm. There will be a very intimate gathering of families as we carefully roll over logs to find invertebrates, salamanders, and even mycelia…what’s that? Find out all sorts of new terms and meet some cool and crawly critters. Families with children ages 6 and older are welcome to attend.

This special program is limited to 15 lucky folks interested in what they will see when looking under rocks! There are no online reservations for this event -- so get there early as it is first come first serve! Participants must wear masks. The meeting point is on the lawn between the Main Parking area and the Museum. The cost is $5 per person.

Courtesy White Memorial Foundation

About White Memorial

The White Memorial Conservation Center, an Environmental Education Center and Nature Museum, is located in the heart of the 4000-acre White Memorial Foundation in the hills of northwestern Connecticut.

In 1964 the Center was established in the former home of Alain White and his sister, May. Their vision and generosity led to the formation of the White Memorial Foundation in 1913. A non-profit tax-exempt organization, the Center was incorporated to add the goal of Education to the Conservation, Research, and Recreation purposes for which the foundation was formed.

The Conservation Center operates a Nature Museum with exhibits focusing on the interpretation of local natural history, conservation, and ecology, as well as a Museum Nature Store. Dormitory and Classroom Facilities on the property extend the opportunities for visitors to interact with the natural world.

The outdoor arena includes the wildlife sanctuary maintained by the White Memorial Foundation. The Foundation today comprises 4000 acres of fields, water, and woodlands, trails, campgrounds, boating facilities, and special areas for large outdoor educational and recreational gatherings.

Sounds of Waterfalls Herald Summer in Litchfield Hills

 Some people listen for birdsong and look for early summer flowers but in Litchfield Hills, it's the rippling rhythm of waterfalls that herald early summer.  Swollen from the runoff of a snowy winter, waterfalls are at their splashiest this spring, and there are many falls around the region beckoning hikers, picnickers, and photographers with their call. 

Kent Falls State Park

Kent Falls State Park, home to Connecticut’s tallest waterfall, is located right on Route 7 just north of Kent. The stream known as Falls Brook takes a dramatic 200-foot drop over a cliff here, a thrilling sight. An uphill hiking path beside the water leads to the top of the falls, passing through a fragrant hemlock forest and providing lookouts to savor or photograph the scene below. Excellent vantage points are found all along the trail for admiring the cascading water. Picnic grounds are set in a meadow at the foot of the falls. 

 For a show of waterpower, the Great Falls of the Housatonic in the Falls Village section of Canaan is unsurpassed. During planned water releases in spring, the dam-controlled falls put on a spectacular show, flowing over a 50-foot drop. A short hiking path leads to an upper viewpoint to savor the splash. The falls are found off Route 126 north following the signs on the road marked for Falls Village. Dean’s Ravine Falls in Canaan is another beauty, with cascades and slides down a steep 50-foot drop, and once again an easy trail leads to the water. The trail to the falls begins to the left of the parking lot at Music Mountain, the headquarters of the oldest continuously running Summer Music Festival in the United States. 

The scenic trail to Prydden Brook Falls in Newtown parallels the west side of the Housatonic River most of the way. The waterfall begins and ends with a plunge with 40 feet of cascades in between. 

 A choice spot for a picnic is Southford Falls State Park on the Oxford and Southbury town line where Eight Mile Brook runs down from Lake Quassapaug in a bubbling cascade on its way to join the Housatonic River. Romantics can picnic on a rock adjacent to the falls or on one of the secluded picnic tables by a classic covered bridge. The bridge is based on a traditional 18th-century arch design and was built by a talented local carpenter, Ed Palmer, with the assistance of Americana Artist Eric Sloane. The banks of the pond above the falls are popular with both fishermen and picnickers. Hiking in the park is excellent on a system of loop trails through the woods and hills. One of the trails offers a tower lookout with a prime view. Located just south of Southbury on Route 188, the park provides a shelter with water and visitor facilities. 

Campbell Falls State Park

A lookout tower is one of several rewards for hikers who take the loop three-mile Beaver Pond Trail at Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area in Burlington. The path, canopied by chestnut, red oak, red maple, and black birch, leads through acres of woodland past a 38-acre beaver pond, the Negro Hill Brook flowing through a jumble of boulders and a side trail leading to a splashing waterfall. The entrance to the wildlife area is found on Route 69, three miles north of the Route 6 intersection in Bristol. 

The sound of rushing water guides visitors through the pines and hemlocks to Campbell Falls, a scenic treasure formed where the Whiting River tumbles over the rocks through a narrow gorge. The water plummets down 60 feet in two steep steps, each ending in a small pool. The weathered rocks make an idyllic picnic setting. The falls are found off Norfolk Road, five miles north of Haystack Mountain on Route 272 in Norfolk, not far from the Massachusetts border.

Explore Mill Hill Historic Park in Norwalk on June 5

 If you are up for a historic stroll in June, why not head to Mill Hill Historic Park located on 2 East Wall Street in Norwalk on Saturday, June 5. The Norwalk Historical Society is offering a series of self-guided tours at 12 noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. For tickets click here.

Visitors are invited to explore the 1740 Governor Fitch Law Office which has been completely renovated and reinterpreted. The new interpretive panels provide information about Colonial life and Governor Fitch. The colonial herb garden on the grounds of this complex is another highlight. Visitors will learn about plants that would have been grown and used during this time period.

The Downtown District One Room Schoolhouse that dates to 1826 and a fascinating exhibition is also on the grounds of the Mine Hill Complex. The "One Room Schoolhouses: A History of Education in Norwalk 1650-1870”, highlights the early history of education in Norwalk using old photographs, original documents, and period textbooks. Both exhibitions were curated by Dr. Daryn Reyman-Lock with graphic design by Scott Kuykendall.

A visit to this complex would not be complete without a stroll through the Mill Hill Burying Ground, Norwalk’s third oldest with views of the Norwalk River.

Visitor Guidelines The health and safety of our visitors, volunteers, and staff are our highest priority. We continue to implement the State of Connecticut's regulations, CDC guidelines, and industry standards for best museum practices during the ongoing pandemic. MASKS • All visitors will be required to wear masks regardless of vaccination status when inside the Mill Hill Historic Park buildings. • If you do not have a mask available, the Norwalk Historical Society will make a disposable mask available to you. TICKETS • All tickets must be purchased online and in advance. If you arrive without a ticket, we will ask you to visit our website at norwalkhistoricalsociety.org/events and purchase a ticket. SOCIAL DISTANCING • We will be limiting the number of visitors to facilitate safe social distancing using timed and delayed entry. • Social distancing shall be required for all staff, volunteers and visitors. Social distancing means keeping 6 feet apart from guests, docents, and staff at all times during your visit. • Bathrooms will accommodate 1 person at any given time. SANITIZING • The Norwalk Historical Society will make hand sanitizer available at entrances, exits and common areas. • We are taking precautions in cleaning common areas with EPA approved cleaning products. Sanitary wipes and trash cans will be available in the restrooms to avoid direct contact on commonly used surfaces. • All visitors will have to agree to these regulations before purchasing tickets to the Mill Hill Historic Park buildings.

Woodcock Nature Center and Wilton Land Conservation Trust Hike Together

Wilton is home to more than 23 preserves that are open to the public and range from 16 to nearly 200 acres. Wilton also has access to open space and trails at Woodcock Nature Center, Weir Farm, and Ambler Farm.

Woodcock Nature Center and the Wilton Land Conservation Trust have teamed up on a series of hikes aimed at highlighting the numerous and naturally diverse trails right here in Wilton. The hike is scheduled for Saturday, May 22 at the Harrison-Smith Preserve at 9 a.m. To register click here.

The Harrison-Smith Preserve is one Land Trust property in particular that combines the beauty of the New England woodland with historical glimpses of Wilton. This property was acquired by the Land Trust in 1974 and is located in North Wilton off of Keeler’s Ridge. It encompasses 23 acres and is abutted by Quarry Head State Park. This preserve is notable for its interesting rock formations and was once used for limited quarrying. Some of the rocks quarried from this preserve were used as building materials locally for barns and bridges. Remnants of the rock walls that once enclosed old pastures and grazing areas for livestock can still be seen from the trail. Today this preserve is a mixed hardwood forest and offers a diversity of habitats.

The free 90-minute guided nature tour will be led by staff naturalists from Woodcock Nature Center alongside Land Trust Executive Director. Leaders will talk about the diverse wildlife, ecosystems, native and invasive plants, and provide insights into Wilton’s land-use history. With any luck, participants might even spot some local wildlife.

Learn About An Ancient Technology Atlatl Workshop @ Institute For American Indian Studies on May 22

 

​When people think of Native American hunting tools, bows and arrows are among the first things that spring to mind, and with good reason. Just about every Native American community had some form of a bow and arrow. What many people don’t know is that for thousands of years, many Native Americans used a different type of hunting tool. The atlatl is a dart thrower that allows hunters to throw a dart or spear farther and faster than by hand alone.

On Saturday, May 22 the Institute for American Indian Studies​ in Washington, Connecticut will be hosting an in-person Atlatl Workshop from 12 noon to 2 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. that will highlight the many uses of this ancient technology, how to make your own atlatl, and how to throw it. Essentially an atlatl is a dart thrower that allows hunters to throw a dart or arrow farther and faster than by hand alone. 

If you like to make things with your hands and throwing sports, don’t miss this intriguing workshop. Participants will learn about the history of the atlatl, one of the first true weapon technologies developed by cultures from all over the world. Different designs of this useful ancient tool that is both a projectile and launching device used by Native Americans will be a highlight. Under the guidance of the Institute’s Educator, Susan Scherf, participants will learn about the different designs of the atlatl before making their own atlatl and dart. 

The fun really begins when participants learn how to use their newly made atlatl and seeing how much farther their dart travels. The atlatl session ends with a friendly atlatl throwing competition. If you become an atlatl fan, you might end up competing in atlatl competitions that are held throughout the world! 

There are two-time slots for this workshop, one at 12 noon to 2 p.m. and the next one is at 2 pm. – 4 p.m. The Atlatl Workshop is $30 for members of the Institute and $40 for non-members and, an adult must accompany participants under 18. To reserve your spot for this fun and educational workshop https://www.iaismuseum.org/event/atlatl-making-workshop-in-person or call 860-868-0518 or email general@iaismuseum.org. Masks and social distancing are required. 

 About the Atlatl 

An atlatl is one of humankind's first mechanical inventions that preceded the bow and arrow in most parts of the world. Basically, an atlatl is a type of lever that was used to throw a spear farther and faster towards the quarry. The word atlatl comes from the Nahuatl language of the Aztecs who were using them when the Spanish arrived in the 1500s. 

According to the World Atlatl Association, early people in the Americas used atlatls to hunt mammoths and mastodons around 11,000 years ago. Much later, a variety of atlatl types were used in different parts of North America. 

Atlatls continued to be used alongside bows and arrows by many Native Americans after the introduction of the bow. 

Typically the projectile point or spear point was made of stone such as chert using a process known as flint knapping. The point was attached to a wooden shaft made of hardwood such as ash, hickory, oak, cedar, walnut, or birch. 

In time, an atlatl weight was added to the spear-thrower as a counter-balance. Weights became more stylized and ornate using fine stone-like banded slate to make each piece a unique work of art. About 

The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS) 

Located on 15 woodland acres the IAIS preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. We have an outdoor replicated 16th c. Algonkian Village, the award-winning Wigwam Escape, and a Museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut.