All Aboard with Santa in Thomaston and Danbury

We know that Santa gets around during the holiday season, but sleighs are not his only favorite mode of travel. In Litchfield Hills, you can often find the man in red enjoying a holiday train ride--and he loves company.

On December weekends, Santa can be found aboard the Santa Express leaving from Thomaston, CT, ready with bags of goodies for all the young passengers he meets along the way. Santa is so fond of trains that he even has two satellite workshops in train cars, one reached via a vintage train ride at the Danbury Railway Museum and another along the way on the Northern Lights Limited, a nighttime train excursion from Thomaston.

Rides are just part of the special railroad fun for families this year in Fairfield and Litchfield Counties, where lavish displays of working model trains are a traditional holiday treat in several locations.

The Santa Express in Thomaston This 1920s vintage train travels along the scenic Naugatuck River for a warm, cozy 80-minute round-trip ride. Santa brings along Mrs. Claus and some friendly helper elves to visit with each child on board. Trains depart from the historic 1881 station in Thomaston Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays December 3,4,5,9,10,11,12,17,18, and 19. Starting Christmas week the train will run on December 20,21,22 and 23. The last train of the holiday season will run on December 30th. On Saturdays and Sundays, the train runs at 12 noon, 2:15, 5 p.m., and 7:15 p.m. On Fridays and during Christmas week the train runs at 5 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

Light displays inside and out make for an exciting outing at night aboard the Northern Lights Limited from Thomaston. The train makes a stop at Santa's Train Workshop, where the great man will board and greet everyone with gifts. 

Back at the gaily decorated station, a model train layout is in action, and a large selection of railroad theme gifts, books, and memorabilia can be found. Tickets and information are available from the Railroad Museum of New England, online atwww.rmne.org, or by phoning (860) 283-7245. Coach tickets are $20 for adults and Children and, first-class tickets are $49.50 for adults and children. The station is located on 242 East Main Street in Thomaston, CT

All Aboard in Danbury At the Danbury Railway Museum, a classic 1903 station with a railroad yard filled with vintage train cars, visitors can ride a working vintage train through the yard to Santa's Workshop. New this year the Danbury Railway Museum is offering a short train ride in a restored 1950s Rail Diesel Car through historic Danbury Railyard, you'll be escorted back to the station for a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, where the big man himself will give out the first gifts of Christmas (Parents: Bring a pre-wrapped present or select from our online menu [includes FREE gift wrapping & batteries], and Old St. Nick will give your little one their unique present!). The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday, December 4-19 from 12 noon to 7 p.m.

The Danbury Railroad Museum is located on 120 White Street in Danbury. Trains run on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:30, 2 pm, 3:30 pm, 5 pm, and 6:30 pm. Tickets are $20 for ages 2 and up. Click here for more information.

Christmas Tree Farms in Litchfield Hills

Whether you want to cut your own tree, pick a live tree and have it cut for you, buy a tree already cut or buy a living tree you can plant, we are losing a few places to find Christmas tree farms, places to buy pre-cut (also called pre-harvested and fresh-cut) trees, stands, sleigh rides, hayrides, and related winter events and fun. 

Photo courtesy of Bees, Fleas, and Trees in Litchfield

Angevine Farm - Christmas trees-you choose and you cut, Precut Christmas trees, Christmas wreaths, Christmas boughs, garlands, Santa visits, Christmas decorations, trees bagged, saws provided. Located on 40 Angevine Road, Warren, CT 06754. Phone: 860-868-7226. Alternate Phone: 860-601-5906. Open: Monday to Sunday 9 am to 5 pm November 19th to December 23rd; Christmas Eve 9 am to 3 pm; Closed Thanksgiving.  Christmas tree varieties: You-Choose and You-Cut varieties: Balsam Fir, Blue Spruce, Canaan Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, Eastern White Pine, Fraser Fir, White Fir (Concolor Fir), and other varieties (call!). PreCut varieties: Balsam Fir, Blue Spruce, Colorado Blue Spruce, White Fir (Concolor Fir), Eastern White Pine.  

Asher Tharpe Farm - Choose and cut Christmas Trees, pre-tagging allowed, gift shop 93 Northfield Road (Rt. 254), Litchfield, CT 06759. Phone: 860-567-0358.

Averill Farm - Christmas trees-you choose and you cut, Christmas wreaths, trees baled, saws provided, free hot cider,  Averill is also a cider mill with fresh apple cider made on the premises. The farm is located at 250 Calhoun Street, Washington Depot, CT 06794. Phone: 860-868-2777.  Open: from the day After Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve, 9:30 am to dusk daily. Christmas tree varieties: You-Choose and You-Cut varieties: Balsam Fir, Blue Spruce, Colorado Blue Spruce, Fraser Fir, Norway Spruce, White Fir (Concolor Fir), White Pine, White Spruce. 

Bees, Fleas & Trees - is located on 551 South Plains Road, Litchfield, CT 06759. Phone: 860-567-8544. The farm is open: from early December, on Thursday and Friday from 1 pm to 4:30 PM; Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The last sale date is December 24, 2021. Directions: On east side Rt 63; 1.5 mi. south of the Litchfield Green or 2.5 mi. north of Rt 109 traffic light in East Morris.  They offer choose and cut Christmas Trees. There are specially marked Live Trees.  Christmas tree varieties include Fraser/Concolor Fir, Blue/White/Meyer Spruce, and White Pines.  Tree Prices are Fraser/Concolor Fir, Blue/White/Meyer Spruce, White Pine @ $49.  A selection of pre-cut trees will be available after Dec. 9th @ $19.

12 Annual Newtown Turkey Trot November 25

 Once again this year Newtown is hosting the 5k Turkey Trot Roat Race or a 2.5K Fun Walk on November 25th. This event is held in the scenic center of Newtown with its iconic village green graced by an enormous American flag. The race is an annual benefit for the C. H. Booth Library. The race and walk begin at 7:45 a.m. at the Newtown Middle School on 11 Queen Street.

The course works its way out of the center of town on the Boulevard and loops back past the Firehouse and shops before circling around Wendover Road and back to the Middle School. The course is mostly flat with a few gentle hills and loops through lovely neighborhoods and through the historic center of town.

The entry fee for the race is $30 for an individual entry and $100 for groups of four. Results of the race can be viewed by clicking here. There are several categories of winners that are decided by age group with the top three in the male/female group. For additional race, information click here.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Plans Three Weekends of Holiday Happenings

 

This year, the Zoo is pairing up with Oliver’s Pajama Project to bring pajamas to underserved communities throughout the state as well as offering three fun weekends of Holiday Happenings. Oliver Koenig-Paquin is a young boy whose dream is to make sure every boy and girl has a pair of new pajamas to keep them warm and cozy at night. Throughout the holiday season, the Zoo will be collecting pajamas at the front gate: all ages and sizes needed! 

On December 4-5, December 11-12 and December 18-19, the Zoo will provide festive holiday fare in the Elf Kitchen, featuring hot chocolate, gingerbread, sugar cookies, savory soups, and other festive holiday specialties. Santa’s Sleigh will be set up for Family Photos. Take a stroll through the Zoo and enjoy special crafts and activities with the children, including storytimes and two appearances each weekend day by a magician. Thirty wreaths from Wreaths Across America can be found around Zoo grounds, to remember fallen U.S. veterans and honor those who serve. 

 On Saturday, Dec 4 and Saturday, Dec 18, the Zoo will hold a Pajama Parade with Frosty the Snowman, Stripes the Tiger, and Thirsty the Penguin marching alongside Grand Marshal Oliver, founder of Oliver’s Pajama Project. We encourage guests to wear pajamas and bring pajamas to the parade, then take a family holiday pajama photo! 

Holiday Happenings at the Beardsley Zoo located on 1875 Noble Ave. in Bridgeport includes a myriad number of activities for the white family. There will be opportunities for family photos, crafts and activities, magic shows, and, of course, Festive Fare! For junior magicians don't miss the Magic Moments Magic Show: Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 11 am and 1 pm in the Greenhouse. Traditional and contemporary fun stories will be told at the Zoo'sHoliday Story Time: Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 10 am and 2 pm in the W.O.L.F. Cabin. For family sleuths, go on the Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt: Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19: One Zoo Family Membership awarded. And, to really get into the spirit of the season, participate in the Special Pajama Parade on Dec 4 and Dec 18 at noon, and don't forget to wear your pajamas to the parade! 

About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo

Let your curiosity run wild! Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating its 99th year, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Amur tigers and leopards, maned wolves, Mexican gray wolves, and red wolves. Other highlights include our new Spider Monkey Habitat, the Rainforest Building, the prairie dog exhibit, and the Pampas Plain with Giant anteaters and Chacoan peccaries. Guests can ride on the carousel, grab a bite from the Peacock Café and eat in the Picnic Grove. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is a non-profit organization approaching its 100th year at a time when the mission of helping fragile wildlife populations and ecosystems is more important than ever. Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org. In accordance with the state of Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines: we recommend that guests continue to wear masks while visiting the Zoo, but when guests are outside and can maintain social distance, masks may be removed. In any indoor area, or when social distancing cannot be maintained, masks are required. Everyone over the age of two, except for those with medical conditions that preclude wearing them, should have a mask available. 

About Oliver’s Pajama Project

Oliver’s Pajama Project is in its 6th year. Oliver’s gearing up for a huge collection, with the goal of collecting 6,500 pairs of brand-new pajamas this fall and winter for children in underserved communities. Oliver is looking for complete pajama sets (tops and bottoms) or onesies that are brand new, in sizes newborn all the way through adult 3xl. Drop off will be located at the front gate, and the last day to drop off will be December 30, 2021.

Holiday Market Returns to Institute for American Indian Studies November and December

 

The Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington is hosting its annual Holiday Market on Saturday, November 27, December 4, and December 11, and on Sunday, November 28, December 5, and December 12. The market is free and open to the public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; visitors can also tour the museum for $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for children; members are free. 

If you are looking for something really unusual, make sure to stop in at the only Holiday Market featuring Native American-inspired artwork in Connecticut. Here you will find something truly unique for everyone on your list from Native American jewelry and artwork at a variety of price points. A chance to talk with the people that have created the many works of art is an added bonus. 

This iconic market pays tribute to indigenous people across the United States and provides a spectacular opportunity to see Native American-inspired work exhibited and sold. Highlights of the market include the magical sounding flutes handcrafted by Allen Madahbee, Ojibwe. In addition to the one-of-a-kind flutes, Allen is offering beaded moccasins, woodcarvings, rock sculptures, and his inspirational original paintings. 

Another vendor, Kim Lewis from Native Visions will be offering an astounding array of Native American Art from Oklahoma and the Southwest including a fine selection of original paintings and prints, Zuni Fetishes, silver jewelry, pottery by Mel Cornshucker, plus Hopi, and Navajo Kachinas.

A long-time favorite of the Holiday Market, Primitive Technologies will offer a tantalizing array of jewelry including hand-carved flint arrowhead and flint animal necklaces, masks, decorative gourds, carved stone art, containers made out of natural materials, traditional tools, and handmade pottery. 

The Museum's Gift Shop will also be open and is brimming with a distinctive collection of Native American jewelry, art, paintings, hard-to-find books, pottery, smudges, games, and much more. What better way to kick off the holiday season than with a visit to this popular signature event that offers unusual gift items and an immersive cultural experience that celebrates contemporary and traditional Native American-inspired art. 

About The 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 at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

See a Holiday Classic for Free @ Avon Theatre December 4

On Saturday, December 4 at 11 am the Avon Theatre located on 272 Bedford Street in Stamford is presenting the holiday movie classic, Its A Wonderful Life free and open to the public. 

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946), is a classic holiday film starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, a man who has given up his personal dreams in order to help others in his community, and whose contemplation of suicide on Christmas Eve brings about the intervention of his guardian angel, Clarence, who shows George how much he has touched the lives of others and how different life would be for his wife Mary and his community of Bedford Falls if he had not been born. Director Frank Capra revealed that it was his favorite among the films he directed and that he screened it for his family every Christmas season. It was also Jimmy Stewart's favorite film. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. In 1990 it was added to the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress.

COVID SAFETY

The Avon Theatre Film Center currently requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination for attendance at all screenings and events in our historic theatre. This reflects our commitment to do all that we can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for all our valued patrons and employees. The Avon also requires face masks in all areas of the building, which may only be removed while seated in the theatre. Social distancing, sanitation, and HEPA air filtration procedures are also still in effect. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. 

ABOUT THE AVON:

The Avon Theatre in Stamford is open for in-person moviegoing every day. The Avon is a member-supported, non-profit cultural hub, dedicated to presenting the film in its highest form, and thriving because of the support of our patrons and community. In addition to an exciting slate of new releases, The Avon brings you one-of-a-kind special events and monthly programs. We are proud to provide a forum for in-person, community dialogue with directors, actors, and other luminaries in a vibrant “Main Street America” setting.

Lime Rock Park Tickets To Go On Sale November 15

 With the North American 2021 motorsports season heading to the checkered flag, fans can get a head start on 2022 by purchasing tickets for another exciting season of competition at Lime Rock Park. 

 

The Connecticut facility will celebrate its 65th anniversary with a strong roster of events returning in 2022. Tickets will go on sale on Monday, Nov. 15, with fans able to take advantage of discount pricing ahead of the New Year. 

 

Once again, the historic circuit in the scenic Berkshire Hills will showcase three major spectator weekends in addition to a busy contingent of sports car racing and car club events. 

 

The traditional season opener will be the Trans Am Memorial Day Classic, set for May 27-30, with great racing in a family picnic atmosphere on the hillsides. 

 

The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli is in the spotlight, with 850-plus horsepower Detroit V-8 engines showcased in the premier TA category. The TA2® class revives the Muscle Car wars of the late Sixties, featuring Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaros, and Dodge Challengers battling in a 100-mile race. Both Import and domestic sports cars are featured in the exciting XGT, SGT, and GT classes, as the Trans Am enjoys its 55th season of competition.  A full slate of SVRA races and the International GT, plus Sunday’s Royals Garage Car Show complete the traditional Memorial Day weekend event. 

 

The long-running IMSA event weekend will once again be staged July 15-16, and will feature the first-ever glimpse of IMSA’s newest class – GTD Pro – at the IMSA Northeast Grand Prix. The event is a sports car lover’s dream, with both the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the Michelin Pilot Challenge stages races on the quick two-day event weekend. 

 

The year wraps up with the 40th anniversary of another Lime Rock classic, the 40th staging of the Historic Festival Sept. 2-5. Another fan favorite, the event launches into action with a 17-mile tour through the area with Thursday’s Vintage Race Car and Sports Car Parade. Friday, Saturday and Monday feature non-stop on-track competition with the various vintage and historic car classes, while the Sunday in the Park Concours d’Elegance and Gathering of the Marques display nearly 1,000 classic cars and motorcycles at the circuit.

 

Once again, Veterans and Active Military receive free general admission to the three major weekends. All youths 12 and under are also free, along with general parking, courtesy golf car shuttle rides, and paddock access.

 

The 2022 season will see the track build on a big 2021, which saw Lime Rock Park rebound from a challenging 2020 with thriving fan response. The Northwest Connecticut facility also grew its driver training capabilities in 2021 with the expanded FCP Euro Proving Grounds, and the new ownership group will continue to develop the fan experience to match the beauty of the area. 

 

Ticket sales will begin Monday, November 15th. Visit limerock.com or call (860) 435-5000 for additional information.

Exceptional Dedication - Honoring Native Americans Veterans on November 14 @ The Institute for American Indian Studies

 

Each year, in honor of Veterans Day, the Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington Connecticut honors the exceptional military service of Native Americans in a formal dedication. This year, the Institute is once again inviting the public to participate in the program that will honor three Native Americans whose passion and loyalty have helped to make America what it is today on Sunday, November 14 at 12 noon.

The first honoree is Joseph A. Perry, Jr. (Eastern Pequot), a Vietnam Veteran who enlisted in the United States Army in 1960. Upon his Honorable Discharge as Sergeant in the 82nd Airborne Division in 1963, he joined the Connecticut State Police in 1964, retiring in 1995 as Deputy Commissioner/ Colonel Division of State Police. In 1995 Joseph became the Director of Public Safety for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, retiring in 2011 as Inspector General. Throughout his career, Joseph has volunteered extensively, serving several terms as a Tribal Councilor and Tribal Treasurer for the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation from 1996 through 2017. He also served on the Board of Trustees and Corporators of Norwich Free Academy from 1992 to 2007. Currently, Joseph serves on Tribal Honor Guard, is a Tribal Ambassador and member of the Native American Heritage Advisory Council (NAHAC). In addition, he serves as a Corporator at William W. Backus Hospital, is on the Chairman Criteria Committee at the Connecticut Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation, and is a High School Football Official on the Eastern Connecticut Board of Approved Football Officials. Joseph is the recipient of numerous awards, including the University of New Haven Distinguished Alumni award, the Connecticut Chapter NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Southeastern Connecticut Chapter National Football Award - Distinguished American.

The second honoree is Albert E. Sargent, Sr., a second-generation submarine sailor. Sargent is a descendent of the Shinnecock, Pequot, Cherokee, and Pokanoket peoples, with ties to the Narragansett and Nipmuc Native American communities. Sargent enlisted in the U.S. Navy in April 1977. He first attended Radioman A School in San Diego, CA, and, later switched to sub-school training in Groton, CT. He served on the USS Trout SS566 and was later assigned to the USS Grayling SSN566 submarine in Charleston, SC, as a machinist mate. In April 1981 he was transferred to the USS Casimir Pulaski SSBN-594, where he became Petty Officer, Second Class. In 1984, he was given shore duty at the Sub school in Groton, CT. In 1987 Sargent was offered a submarine construction job at Electric Boat in Groton, CT on the greatest FBM of its time, the USS Tennessee SSBN-734. He served on board this vessel until 1991 as Petty Officer, First Class. Offered shore duty again in Groton, CT at NSSF Naval Submarine Support Facility, he supervised a group of sailors to service the subs at homeport. Leaving the NSSF, Sargent was offered the opportunity to serve on the USS Groton in 1994. While serving on the Groton, he was selected for Chief Petty Officer and asked to serve two more years, but having served twenty years, he declined. Sergent served on the USS Groton from 1994 until his retirement in August 1997.

The third honoree is Dante Biss-Grayson, who served in the U.S. military as a Senior Airman from 2000 to 2012. His active military duty included seven combat tours in Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Italy. In addition to Department of Defense Contracting, he was part of the Crash, Fire, and Rescue teams. He is trained in Emergency Management, Chem Warfare, base defense, search and rescue, heavy rescue, aircraft rescue, and inspection. Today, Biss-Grayson is an Osage Artist that specializes in many media including fine art, large abstract paintings as well as drawings, installations, archetypes, abstract expressionism, expressionism, and the creation of ribbon skirts. A recent and ongoing project is creating poetry based on case files for missing and murdered indigenous women; to date, he has written more than 70 poems. Biss-Grayson, a world traveler will be at the Institute for American Indian Studies for the Veterans Ceremony as well as for several special programs planned throughout the weekend. This outdoor ceremony will honor these individuals as well as all veterans, Native and Non-Native that have served our country. Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to enjoy light refreshments. This event is free and open to the public but pre-registration is requested. Please call 860-868-0518 or email events@iaismuseum.org. 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.

Sherman Chamber Ensemble presents “JAZZING IT UP” November 27 and December 28

 Thanksgiving is full of annual traditions – and a favorite tradition for the Sherman Chamber Ensemble and audiences is the annual “Jazzing It Up" concert - this year returning to live in-person performances in compliance with Covid guidelines. Pianist Ted Rosenthal and alto saxophonist Eddie Barbash join a most talented group of accomplished New York musicians including Thomson Kneeland (double bass), Chris Parker (drums), Susan Rotholz, (flute), and Eliot Bailen (cello) in an exciting program where the classics meet jazz. 

 Bailen, Artistic Director of the Ensemble, said, “The program pays tribute to Billy Strayhorn – American jazz composer, pianist, lyricist, and arranger, who collaborated with bandleader Duke Ellington. In fact, some say it was difficult to discern where one’s style ended and the other’s began as the two together brought much joy to the jazz world.” Strayhorn composed over 150 pieces of music, including: “Chelsea Bridge,” “Day Dream,” “Johnny Come Lately,” “Rain Check,” and Ellington’s theme song, “Take the A Train.” Strayhorn was inducted into the Great American Songbook Foundation Hall of Fame as part of the 2021 class. 

Bailen said that special arrangements are being created for the Ensemble’s program to include flute and cello. “The combination of Rosenthal, one of the leading jazz pianists of his generation, and Barbash, an exciting, young virtuoso (and a founding member of John Batiste's Stay Human house band for the Steven Colbert Late Night Show) will have audiences jumping in their seats,” said Liba Furhman, Executive Director of the Sherman Chamber Ensemble. Leonard Feather of the Los Angeles Times said, "Rosenthal is a pianist of rarest skill, weaving rapid single-note lines that span out into rich chordal patterns, parallel octaves, and hints of the blues." And Nate Chinen of the New York Times said, “There aren't many modern jazz pianists more dexterous than Mr. Rosenthal.” Barbash, named by Vanity Fair as one of the “millennials shaking up the jazz world” was a founding member of the Jon Batiste and Stay Human Band, of Late Night with Stephen Colbert fame. 

 In past performances with the Ensemble he received rave reviews and standing ovations, playing diverse styles of music from Debussy to Mozart, Rossini to bluegrass and Roy Orbison tunes, leading music reviewer Kevin T. McEneaney to write, “Barbash is simply the greatest alto sax player I’ve ever heard.” 

 Also featured is drummer Chris Parker. Over the past four decades, he's worked with everybody from the Brecker Brothers to Miles Davis, Laura Nyro, and Lou Rawls and made his mark time and again with a who's who of music giants. Called an “unsung hero of the music biz” Parker brings his skill and intensity to the Ensemble.

The concerts will take place on Saturday, November 27 at 4 p.m. at Christ Church on Quaker Hill, 7 Church Road, Pawling, NY, Saturday, November 27 at 8 p.m. at Salem Covenant Church, 96 Baldwin Hill Rd in Washington, CT, and on Sunday, December 28 at 4 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Church, 1 North Main Street, Kent, CT. General Admission tickets are $25; children ages 15 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. 

Please purchase advance tickets online at www.SCEmusic.org to minimize risk and to allow for contact tracing if necessary. Proof of vaccination, face masks, and social distancing are required. Tickets may be purchased at the door, subject to availability. For information or reservations call 860-355-5930. 

ABOUT THE SHERMAN CHAMBER ENSEMBLE World Class Music, Close to Home Founded in 1982 by cellist Eliot Bailen, Artistic Director, and flutist Susan Rotholz, the Sherman Chamber Ensemble offers a year-round schedule of performances for all ages at venues in Connecticut and New York. Guided by its mission to bring world-class musicians to our communities and schools to perform a diverse range of music with an approach that is intimate and inclusive, the SCE has been described by The New York Times as "about as close as it gets to the Platonic ideal of a chamber music concert." SCE offers Baroque programs, a summer chamber music series, educational activities, and a year-round slate of musical events showcasing the best of live musical performance, from classical to bluegrass to jazz – plus children's and family concerts, school residencies, and pop/rock coffeehouses. In addition to concert subscription and ticket sales, support comes from private foundations, local businesses, and many generous individual donors.

For the Birds... Feeder Chats with Kellogg Environmental Center and Ansonia Nature Center

Are you looking for a way to pass the cool autumn mornings in a fun, educational, and entertaining way? Not to worry, the Kellogg Environmental Center and Ansonia Nature Center have just announced the start of “Feeder Chats”, a virtual program series about birds, beginning November 6, 2021, and held on select Saturdays at 9 a.m. on Nov 6 & 27 and Dec. 11. In 2022, the chats will be held on Jan. 8 & 22; Feb. 5 & 19; Mar. 5 & 19. 

Participants are invited to be part of a community that will share bird-feeding observations and knowledge. Learn about Project FeederWatch, a winter-long survey of birds visiting bird feeders, hear from guest speakers, share tips & tricks for managing bird feeders, and more. This program is for novice and experienced birdwatchers alike – and everyone in between. Enjoy this time for discussion and conversation about birds. 

Online access details will be shared with registered participants. Please register for the free webinar through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Calendar of Events https://www.depdata.ct.gov/calendar or contact donna.kingston@ct.gov for registration assistance. 

The Kellogg Environmental Center, a facility of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s State Parks & Public Outreach Division, is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. It is located at 500 Hawthorne Avenue off Rte. 34 in Derby. For further information or directions please phone the Kellogg Environmental Center at (203)734-2513. 

 The Ansonia Nature Center is open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday through Saturday. It is located at 10 Deerfield Road, in Ansonia. For more information, call (203)736-1053 or visit ansonianaturecenter.org.

When Glaciers Melt - First Settlers of Connecticut New Exhibit at The Institute for American Indian Studies

 The new exhibit at the Institute for American Indian Studies located in Washington traces how Connecticut's first settlers found their way as the glaciers melted. It is a rare opportunity to learn about the Connecticut environment, and the way people and animals lived here more than 10,000 years ago. A highlight of this exhibit is an extensive display of the Templeton Dig Site, one of the oldest in southern New England, found in Washington, Connecticut. The exhibit, When Glaciers Melt - First Settlers of Connecticut will be on display in the Institute's special exhibition hall through mid.-November.

It is hard to envision that 21,000 years ago, much of the Northeast was covered under two miles of glacial ice. As the environment changed an ice-free corridor emerged in the western area of the United States and people began to migrate south across the Bering Strait. Eventually, they made their way to the Northeast. By the time settlers reached Connecticut, the average temperature was only 13 degrees colder than it is today! The receding glacial waters left a nutrient-rich soil that provided the perfect environment for the development of Paleoindian lifeways.

This exhibit illustrates how the first settlers in Connecticut lived. They are classified as hunter-gatherers and would follow migratory herds across the landscape and would forage for food such as strawberries, blueberries, and other seeds. The display on flint knapping is particularly interesting because it shows the reduction sequence of how rocks were broken down to form smaller pieces that would be used as tools such as projectiles and knives. One of the surprises of this exhibit is the number of different types of rocks used in flint knapping that came from places as far away as Pennsylvania, Eastern New York, and Rhode Island. 

Another section of the exhibit details the Paleoindian environment that includes the presence of very large plants, trees, and animals. One of the most astounding animals showcased is a giant beaver that grew to the size of a black bear! This display makes an excellent photo opportunity for young and old alike! At some point both our modern-day smaller beavers and these giant beavers co-existed. Unfortunately, the giant beavers were unable to change with the environment and they went extinct around 10,000 years ago.

The centerpiece of the exhibit is the display regarding the Templeton Dig Site in Washington. Templeton is Connecticut's first known Paleoindian site and, until recently it was the oldest site in all of southern New England. This exhibit includes explanations of why this site is so important, how it was excavated, what was found, an example of the tools excavators used, and plans for future excavations. A second display, the Brian B. Jones dig site located in Avon, Connecticut is also examined and discussed.

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.

 

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Says Goodbye to Reka, an Amur Tiger Born at the Zoo

 Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo will say goodbye next week to Reka, a female Amur tiger born at the Zoo, as she moves to a new permanent home. Born on November 25, 2017, Reka and her sister Zeya were raised by the Zoo’s animal care staff when their mother, Changbai, displayed no interest in her cubs. Zoo guests and supporters have followed Reka and Zeya’s journey from newborns whose survival was uncertain to the healthy young adult tigers they are today. 

 

Managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), inter-regional transfers are arranged with careful attention to gene diversity in the hope that successful breeding will take place. Last year, Zeya was sent to Rosamond Gifford Zoo as an excellent genetic match to that Zoo’s resident male tiger. Reka’s new home zoo will announce her arrival once a standard quarantine period is complete later this fall.  Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo remains home to Reka and Zeya’s mother, Changbai. 

 

Amur tigers are very rare and are critically endangered in the wild. According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) statistics, today Amur tigers are thought to occupy less than seven percent of their original range. Threatened by habitat loss and degradation, poaching, tiger-human conflict, and loss of prey, four of nine subspecies have disappeared from the wild just in the past hundred years. The future of the Amur tiger has been a major concern of the world’s zoos for many years as the species has been pushed toward extinction. 

There is an SSP program in place for many species of animals through oversight by a group called the Taxon Advisory Group (TAG). The SSP makes breeding recommendations based on genetics, age and health of animals, and need for more of the species to protect future populations. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo’s Deputy Director, Don Goff, is the Co-Chair of the National Felid TAG group. He leads a committee of AZA-accredited zoo members whose goal is to save declining species.

 

“As sad as we are to say goodbye to Reka, the planned transfer of animals to other member zoos ensures the sustainability of a healthy, genetically diverse, and demographically varied AZA population,” explained Goff.

 

 

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo has had repeated success in breeding endangered species, a testament to the Zoo’s animal care specialists and the highest quality of animal care.  The Zoo has been the birthplace of multiple endangered species in recent years, including Amur tiger cubs, maned wolf pups, red wolf pups, three baby Giant anteaters, and two Amur leopard cubs.

 

About Amur tigers

The Amur, once called the Siberian tiger, is a rare subspecies of tiger, and the largest cat in the world. Adult male tigers can weigh up to 675 pounds, with females weighing up to 350 pounds. Similar to people’s fingerprints, no two tigers have the same striped pattern. Amur tigers differ from other tigers with fewer, paler stripes, and a mane that helps to keep them warm. They live in southeast Russia as well as small areas of China and North Korea. They live for 10-15 years in the wild, and up to 22 years in human care.

 

About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo

 

Let your curiosity run wild! Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating its 99^th year, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Amur tigers and leopards, maned wolves, Mexican gray wolves, and red wolves. Other highlights include our new Spider Monkey Habitat, the Rainforest Building, the prairie dog exhibit, and the Pampas Plain with Giant anteaters and Chacoan peccaries. Guests can ride on the carousel, grab a bite from the Peacock Café and eat in the Picnic Grove. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is a non-profit organization approaching its 100^th year at a time when the mission of helping fragile wildlife populations and eco-systems is more important than ever. 

 

Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org. In accordance with the state of Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines: we recommend that guests continue to wear masks while visiting the Zoo, but when guests are outside and can maintain social distance, masks may be removed. In any indoor area, or when social distancing cannot be maintained, masks are required. Everyone over the age of two, except for those with medical conditions that preclude wearing them, should have a mask available. 

 

 

BOO @ the Zoo is Back October 30

 Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo announces a SPOOK-tacular October with the return of BOO at the Zoo on Saturday, October 30, and Sunday, October 31 from noon to 3:00 p.m. each day.  These phantom-tastic afternoons will include seasonal activities for your little monsters along with spooky animal talks and fun for the whole family.  

 

“Boo at the Zoo is a longstanding Zoo tradition that many families look forward to,” said Gregg Dancho, Zoo director.  “It’s a fun afternoon of cool critters, and, of course, family memories.”

 

All children are invited to come in costume. Voting for your favorite scarecrow in the Zoo’s popular Scarecrows on Parade is included! 

 

Regular adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $17.00, children (ages 3 -11) is $14.00, senior admission (62 and older) is $14.00, and children under 3 years old are free.  Zoo members are also admitted free.

About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo

Let your curiosity run wild! Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating its 99^th year, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Amur tigers and leopards, maned wolves, Mexican gray wolves, and red wolves. Other highlights include our new Spider Monkey Habitat, the Rainforest Building, the prairie dog exhibit, and the Pampas Plain with Giant anteaters and Chacoan peccaries. Guests can ride on the carousel, grab a bite from the Peacock Café and eat in the Picnic Grove. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is a non-profit organization approaching its 100^th year at a time when the mission of helping fragile wildlife populations and ecosystems is more important than ever. 

 

Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org. In accordance with the state of Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines: we recommend that guests continue to wear masks while visiting the Zoo, but when guests are outside and can maintain social distance, masks may be removed. In any indoor area, or when social distancing cannot be maintained, masks are required. Everyone over the age of two, except for those with medical conditions that preclude wearing them, should have a mask available. 

 

The Great Wilton Pumpkin Fest @ Wilton Historical Society

Get ready for heaps of family fun at the Wilton Historical Society on Saturday, October 16 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Find a bountiful harvest of all kinds of fall fun with a focus on, of course, pumpkins!  Watch a blacksmith hard at work at the forge; see docents in Colonial dress hearth cooking (with pumpkins!), weaving and flax breaking, munch a donut and sip some cider.

There will be lots of things for kids to do - pumpkin decorating, lawn games such as “Ring Toss with Pumpkins” and “Corn Hole” – and a version of bocce using pumpkins and gourds!  Time to pick the perfect pumpkin to bring home.  The grounds of the Historical Society will be strewn with pumpkins and gourds being sold by Wilton Kiwanis along with mums and corn.

Be sure to register for the “History is Here Wilton Scavenger Hunt” at the sign-up table. Whether you are brand new to town or a resident for 30 years, you will be amazed at what you don’t know about Wilton’s history!  You can pick up your Scavenger Hunt Kit, and set out to follow the clues to a dozen places around town.  This is a great opportunity for family fun, to get outside, explore Wilton and maybe even win a prize! Wilton Historical Society members free; non-member families $25.

Learn How to Make Native American Leather Pouches @ Institute for American Indian Studies on October 17

 

A Sunday afternoon is the ideal time to learn how to make your own leather Native American style pouch on October 17 @ the Institute for American Indian Studies. This in-person small group workshop has been organized in one-hour time slots from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

Under the guidance of the museum’s Education Department, you’ll learn how Native Americans used leather for clothing, pouches, bags, and other items of daily life. Native Americans historically used leather pouches to carry many of life’s necessities. 

Pouches were made from a variety of materials, some were woven, and others were made from the hides of different animals, most commonly deer. Sign up for a workshop that is both educational and engaging, as you learn how to make your very own unique and practical leather pouch that you can decorate with buttons, stones, and shells. 

After you have completed your project, you may find that you have a newfound appreciation for the artistry that went into making some of the artifacts in the museum’s collections. 

 Sign up with your friends and family to reserve a timeslot by clicking here. For questions call 860-868-0518 or email general@iaismuseum.org. The cost of participation including materials is $25 per person for non- members and $20 for members. 

 About the Institute for American Indian Studies 

The Institute for American Indian Studies preserves and educates through discovery and creativity the diverse traditions, vitality, and knowledge of Native American cultures. Located on 15 acres of woodland IAIS is home to permanent and temporary exhibits, nature trails, and a replicated 16th century Replicated Algonkian village. During the school year, over 7,000 school-age children visit for hands-on programs to learn about the Indigenous people who have called Connecticut home for thousands of years.