Cut-Up: Contemporary Collage and Cut-Up Histories through a Feminist Lens at Franklin Street Works

Franklin Street Works located in Stamford is hosting an exhibition that explores Feminist histories of cut-up and collage with works from 1967 to today in "Cut-Up: Contemporary Collage and Cut-Up Histories through a Feminist Lens," curated by artist Katie Vida. This exhibition explores a multigenerational lineage of women artists who have pushed the boundary of cut-up techniques across media, including sculpture, video, sound art, painting, printed matter, and photography.

Including works from 1967-Present "Cut-Up" explores how collage and cut-up have informed the visual arts, literature, and experimental sound art. The exhibition also pays special attention to how the process of cutting apart and reordering language parallels an activist impulse to disrupt the status quo and develop new narratives that include marginalized voices and alternative visions. This skepticism and eschewing of "traditional" media is a feminist strategy that began with second wave feminist artists in the late 1960s. At that time these artists embraced newer media such as performance, film, text based works, and ephemeral sculpture, in part, to bypass patriarchal histories tied to more codified media like monumental sculpture and painting. New times and new voices embraced new media.

Through a layering of imagery, text, materials and sound, the artists in "Cut-Up" create tension by disrupting narrative and shattering expectations, often upending gallery goer expectations. The cut itself is the technology through which these artists address and manipulate language and image. Through an additive and/or reductive process of developing fresh visual and linguistic spaces the artists in this exhibition show a commitment to breaking apart what is seemingly codified to engage in alternative visions.

Exhibiting Artists: Ruth Anderson, Phyllis Baldino, Dodie Bellamy, Ofri Cnaani, Lourdes Correa-Carlo, Mayme Donsker, Heike-Karin Föell, Susan Howe, Jennie C. Jones, Alexis Knowlton, Carrie Moyer, Lorraine O'Grady, People Like Us, Sheila Pepe, Faith Ringgold, Mariah Robertson, Carolee Schneemann, Nancy Shaver, Meredyth Sparks, Cauleen Smith, Martine Syms, and Janice Tanaka.

For more area information www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

5th Annual Toy Makers Competition at the Westport Arts Center

 The Westport Arts Center knows that there are no better experts when it comes to toys and games than kids! The Center's  fifth annual Toy Makers Competition invites young designers ages 5 - 12 to submit their ideas for new and innovative toys. Each child may submit up to 3 design concepts that capture their creativity and imagination. Both traditional and electronic games are acceptable, but the designers should ask themselves not only what they are but how they would be made.

Judges are looking for toy designs that are: unique, original and imaginative and those that are easy to use and understand.  The toys should be able to be recreated and produced in real life and a description of how the toy will be made and used should also be included.

Children between the ages of  5 - 12 are eligible to submit . Submissions must be created on 8.5x11” paper; 3D creations must be photographed and printed on 8.5x11” paper. Descriptions can be attached to the back of designs. All participants must have parental consent. Toys do not need to be recreated for the presentation,  but finalists may make a prototype if they wish.

All toy submissions are due by 5 p.m. on March 4, 2015 and the entry fee is $10 per child; participants should mail the entry form and up to 3 artworks per child to: Toy Makers Competition, Westport Arts Center,  51 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. For more information http://westportartscenter.org.

For more area event information www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

Go Wild at Flanders Nature Center in February!

Flanders Nature Center located on 5 Church Hill Road in Woodbury Connecticut is offering a month of wild life fun in February. 

On February 24 at 7 p.m. join the staff at Flanders for a lecture on Connecticut's wild rabbits. Lisa Wahle, of the CT DEEP Wildlife Division, will discuss state initiatives to create young forest/shrub land habitat and ways you can help New England Cottontails to survive. Participants will learn about funding opportunities for private landowners to create habitat and facts to keep Eastern Cottontails around for future generations. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for non members.

Gerri Griswold, a CT DEEP Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator wil be on hand on February 27 at 11 a.m. to discuss the North American porcupine.  This is one of one of Connecticut's most fascinating species and the world's third largest rodent!  Gerri Griswold will be bringing along a live porcupine that is under her department's care for participants to meet.  The cost is $15 for members and $18 for non-members. 

The month of February concludes with an animal tracking workshop on February 27 at 2 p.m. This workshop will help participants identify what passes your house when you are not around! Participants will learn about the fascinating world of animal tracking from Connecticut Conservation Ambassador Michael Grady. Participants will be traversing the trails at Flanders Van Vleck Sanctuary to search for and identify tracks, signs and scat of the local wildlife. It is advised to dress warmly for this interesting outdoor activity.

For more information on Flanders Nature Center and to sign up for these programs visit www.flandersnaturecenter.org.  For more information on the Litchfield Hills www.litchfieldhills.com

Catch Saturday Night Fever at the Palace in Waterbury!

Dancing Queens and Disco Kings will have the chance to relive the music and magic of the 1970s when the Waterbury Palace Theater throws the ultimate Disco Dance Party in celebration of the venue's Webster Broadway Series presentation of Saturday Night Fever: The Musical, Feb. 19-20, 2016. Tickets to all three performances are $65, $57, and $50 and can be purchased online at www.palacetheaterct.org, by phone at 203-346-2000, or in person at the Box Office, 100 East Main St.

The iconic story of Tony, a kid from Brooklyn USA who wants to dance his way to a better life, is back in this brand-new national tour that shares Tony's love of dancing in spectacular new ways. Fueled by vintage Bee Gee hits including "Stayin' Alive," "Night Fever," "Disco Inferno," and more, this contemporary retelling of the classic story captures the energy, passion and life-changing moments that have thrilled movie audiences since 1977. Now, a new generation of dancers meets a new generation of playgoers to explore the soaring sounds and pulsating rhythms of a coming-of-age disco fantasy.

After the Friday, Feb. 19, and Saturday, Feb. 20 evening shows, the Palace Theater will host a glittering post-show Disco Dance Party from 10:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. in the Poli Club featuring special guest DJ Jim O'Rourke, Executive Director of the Greater Waterbury YMCA. Guests will dance the night away to their favorite 70's hits from ABBA, The Bee Gees, Gloria Gaynor and more while partying along with the Saturday Night Fever cast! Signature 70's cocktails will be available for purchase and finger foods will be provided along with one complimentary cocktail per person. Admission is $30 and can be purchased when buying tickets to the show online, or by calling the Box Office at 203-346-2000.

Before the Friday evening performance, the Palace will also host a 6p.m. pre-fixe, four-course dinner in the Poli Club, located on the mezzanine level of the theater. Dinner is $62.50 per person, which includes tax, service fees, coffee, and tea. A cash bar is also available. Seating is limited, and reservations can be made when purchasing tickets through the Box Office.

For more information on Saturday Night Fever: The Musical, visit www.palacetheaterct.org.  For area information www.litchfieldhills.com

Chili Warm Up and 5K Run in Danbury

The Danbury Westerners are pleased to announce that the 4th Annual Danbury Westerners Big Chili 5K is set for Sunday, February 21 at 10:00AM at the Danbury Sports Dome on 25 Shelter Rock Road in Danbury. The race is part of the Chili Winter Warm Up which is a family festival and chili cook-off also held at the Danbury Sports Dome.

The course is fast and flat, leaving from the Danbury Sports Dome, rolling into Bethel and back to the Dome. Runners will be treated with refreshments in the Dome following the race including a hot bowl of chili. Age group awards will be presented in seven different categories and t-shirts will be awarded to the first 150 registrants.

The adult course race starts at 10 a.m. and the entry fee is $25 through February 18, 2016; the fee goes up to $30 after and up to the day of the race.

There will also be two free Kids Runs inside the Dome starting at 9:15 a.m.  The kids race will consist of ages 5 - 8 with one lap and ages 9-12 two laps around the indoor track. There is no entry fee, and all registered children will receive a free sports pack while the supplies last.

This is a great event where families can enjoy a nice run on a relatively flat course, and then warm up inside the Sports Dome with some chili.  Register now at http://danburywesterners.pointstreaksites.com/view/danbury

How to Communicate: A Survivor's Guide @ The Wilton Historical Society

On Saturday, February 20 from 10:30 am to 3 pm, the Wilton Historical Society is hosting a special lecture: A Survival Guide to 18th Century Living: Colonial Communications.

Do you know the difference between penmanship and calligraphy? How to select a goose feather and prepare a quill pen? Can you explain how to use pounce? Familiar with the nuances of how to properly fold correspondence? Know how a letter traveled from sender to recipient in  18th century America?

 

This scholarly "Survival Guide", geared to those seriously interested in the how and why of 18th century living, will focus on Colonial Communications, from written letters to the postal system and more.

 

Participants will spend a fascinating day in the company of Otto S. de Pierne, learning how to make an authentic goose quill pen, and create and write and 18th century letter, all the whole absorbing his extensive knowledge about paper, ink, quills, blotting sand, sealing wax, penmanship, language, the postal system, roads, and much more.

 

This program is recommended for ages 14 and up. Please bring a brown bag lunch; beverages and dessert provided.

The cost is  $25 for Wilton Historical Society Members and $35 for non-members.  Please note that the program is extremely limited in size, registration is essential By E-mail: info@wiltonhistorical.org  or call 203-762-7257.

For more area event information and places to go visit www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

 

Build a Gourd Birdhouse and More at the Institute for American Indian Studies

The Institute for American Indian Studies located in Washington Connecticut on 38 Curtis Road is hosting three family fun events in February.  

On February 13 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 pm and is called Slide it, Shoot it and Smack it... winter sports!  Participants will learn what types of games early Native Americans played in the winter. Participants will learn that there were team and individual contests of skill and games of chance. The group will spend the morning having some family fun playing traditional games such as snow snake, shinney, and archery!  The program will conclude at the campfire in the replicated Algonkian village where the group will sip hot chocolate and roast marshmallows. Snow is required for this event, so it is good to call in advance to confirm this event. This event is $8 Adults; $6 Seniors; $5 Children (ages 3-12); IAIS Members Free and admission to the museum is free.

A popular workshop where kids build a birdhouse from a gourd is taking place on February 16 from 10 am to 11:30 a.m. For centuries, Native American people have grown gourds and used them to make birdhouses, bowls, rattles and more! During the school break, bring the kids to IAIS to get them in touch with their natural side as we make painted gourd birdhouses to adorn your yard or porch. Registration and prepayment required; please call Khalil Quotap at (860)868-0518 x103 or email education@iaismuseum.org to reserve your spot.  The cost for the workshop is $15 Kids; $8 Adults  and includes museum admission. 

For more area information on Litchfield Hills visit www.litchfieldhills.com

Torrington Historical Society Celebrates Black History Month with Venture Smith

The Torrington Historical Society and the Documenting Venture Smith Project are pleased to present the exhibit "Making Freedom, The Life of Venture Smith: In His Own Voice" . "Making Freedom", which is being presented in conjunction with Black History Month, tells the story of Venture Smith, an African who was captured and brought to New England in the 1730s. Smith endured decades of slavery before purchasing his freedom and the freedom of his family. "Making Freedom" will be on view in the Torrington Historical Society Carriage House, 192 Main Street, from Wednesday, February 3rd through Saturday, February 27th. Hours for the exhibit are Wednesday through Saturday from 12-4 p.m. Admission is free.

This exhibition draws from Venture Smith's autobiography, A Narrative of the Life and Adventures of Venture, a Native of Africa, which was published in 1798. Additional research on Venture's life was done by Chandler B. Saint, the author of Making Freedom: The Extraordinary Life of Venture Smith, and Robert P. Forbes, author of The Missouri Compromise and its Aftermath: Slavery and the Meaning of America. This exhibition is also currently on view at the Hartford Public Library and in the future, will be exhibited at other venues, including the Smithsonian Institution.

Born in Africa as Broteer Furro, enslaved, and taken as a youth to be sold at Anomabo on the coast of what today is Ghana, the young African was bought in 1739 as a 'venture' by a Rhode Island slave ship's officer, who was the son of one of the merchant dynasties of that region. Taken captive to New England, Venture spent the next quarter-century in slavery under three different owners before buying his freedom in 1765 from his final owner, Col. Oliver Smith, from whom he took his surname. After almost five years as master and slave, Oliver and Venture collaborated in a business that endured for over thirty years. The former owner and slave became equals in commerce. Venture eventually established a substantial property on the Connecticut River in Haddam Neck where he lived with his family until his death in 1805.

Making Freedom" traces the life of Venture Smith from his childhood in Africa, his enslavement and the brutal Middle Passage to the West Indies and Rhode Island, his more than two decades in slavery in New England and Long Island, and his long struggle to regain his freedom.

This exhibition, produced by the Documenting Venture Smith Project, is an international effort founded in 2005 and designed to bring public attention to the life of Venture Smith, to the slave trade of the Atlantic world, and to the continuing tragedy of contemporary slavery. In addition to Saint, who is president of the Beecher House Center for the Study of Equal Rights in Torrington, and Forbes, the project is co-directed by David Richardson, former director of the Wilberforce Institute for the Study of Slavery and Emancipation at the University of Hull in Great Britain. 

While Venture Smith was clearly an extraordinary individual, his experiences are remarkably representative of almost every aspect of the Atlantic slave system, despite the fact that he never traveled further south than the south shore of Long Island.

For more area information on the Litchfield Hills www.litchfieldhills.com

Valentines Day Gift Idea Caribbean Cruise Series Cooking Classes at Jones Family Farm

If you are looking for a memorable gift for Valentine's Day, and can't afford a cruise to the islands, consider the next best thing, the  Caribbean Cruise series of cooking classes being offered by Jones Family Farm in Shelton!

Jones Family Farm located on 606 Walnut Hill Road in Shelton is a popular vineyard as well as a pick your own  and Christmas tree farm.  In keeping with the farm to table movement, Jones Family Farm has been offering cooking classes over the past few years that are limited to just 12 lucky participants.

To kick off 2016, Jones Family Farms is offering a Caribbean Cruise Series of cooking classes that will take place in April and May.  Registration for the classes begins on February 2, 2016 and each class offered is $90 and runs from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Participants will receive an apron to take home as well as recipes.  Classes fill up quickly, so if you want to go on a cruise, sign up soon by visiting the website.

The concept for these classes are to explore the "pepper pot" of various island cuisines. Jones Family Farm's instructor will highlight the local food specialties that evolved from their heritage countries of influence.

The first "cruise" is Celebrating Passover in Curacao on April 23, 2016. Participants will make Charoset Balls, Fried Red Snapper, Hot Cucumber and Radish Salad, Baked Plantains, Stuffed Dates, and Panlevi Cookies.

Next, in the series is the beautiful island of Jamica on April 30. Pumpkin Soup, Curried Lamb with Mango Chutney, Coconut Rice and Peas, and Duckunoo (Sweet Potato Dessert) are on the menu.

The French Island of Martinque is the next island on the cooking cruise that takes place May 7. Participants will learn how to make such specialties as: Hearts of Palm Vinaigrette, Callaloo with Crab, Sautéed Corn & Snow Peas, and Beignets de Banane.

The final stop in the cruise series is the island of Cuba on May 14.  Specialties on this menu includes: Pollo con Pina (Chicken with Pineapple), Moros y Cristianos (Beans & Rice), Roast Calabaza, and Coconut Flan.

Please note that the the menu items above are tentative, and subject to change based on what's seasonally available! For more area information on where to go and what to see and do visit http://www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

Cruise Long Island Sound looking for Seals and Birds at the Maritime Aquarium Norwalk

Cruise out for the chance to see some of the seals and waterfowl that spend their winters in Long Island Sound during Seal-Spotting & Birding Cruises offered this winter by The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. These invigorating 2½-hour outings take place aboard the Aquarium's R/V Spirit of the Sound™, the country's only research vessel with hybrid-electric propulsion.

The cruises seek out the harbor seals and gray seals that migrate down into the Sound from northern waters, which serve as their summer breeding and pupping areas. Seals often can be seen near the Norwalk islands when they "haul out" to rest on rocks exposed at low tide. Aquarium educators will point out these federally protected marine mammals and talk about their natural histories. And they'll also generally discuss what happens to the Sound's marine population during the winter: who stays, who migrates out, and who migrates in (besides the seals).

"As exciting as it is to see the seals that are exhibited inside The Maritime Aquarium, it's truly a memorable experience to see them out in Long Island Sound," said Tom Naiman, the Aquarium's director of education. "Those encounters also remind us how important the Sound is as a habitat for our marine-mammal friends, and all the other creatures that call it home."

These cruises also give birders unique "on-the-water" access to see and photograph visiting winter waterfowl, such as buffleheads, mergansers, Brant geese and long-tailed ducks. Plus, cruise participants can help Aquarium educators with plankton samplings. Data collected during the cruises is added to the Long Island Sound Biodiversity Project, which is an ongoing census of the Sound's animal species.

This online database is sponsored by the Aquarium and includes students in collecting data on the physical and biological contents of Long Island Sound. Binoculars will be provided. R/V Spirit of the Sound has a climate-controlled cabin but, because the best viewing is outside on the deck, participants should bring plenty of warm clothes.

The cruises offer memorable family fun but please note that all passengers must be at least 42 inches tall. Tickets for a Seal-Spotting & Birding Cruise are $24.95, or $19.95 for Aquarium members. Capacity is limited so advance reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-up tickets will be sold, space permitting. Reserve your spot by calling (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206, or by going online to www.maritimeaquarium.org.

Cruises are offered Sat., Feb. 13 – 9 a.m. Sun., Feb. 14 – 9 a.m. Sat., Feb. 27 – 9 a.m. Sun., Feb. 28 – 9 a.m. Sun., March 13 – 1 p.m. Sat., March 19 – 1 p.m. Sun., March 20 – 2 p.m. Sun., April 3 – 1 p.m.

PALACE THEATER ANNOUNCES ADDITIONS TO MONTHLY VENUE TOURS

History Exhibit and Restoration Photos to Be Included in February 5th Tour

The historic Palace Theater in Waterbury, Conn., has expanded its popular monthly venue tours to include engaging elements from the theater’s Tenth Anniversary history exhibit, as well as rarely seen restoration and pre-restoration photos of the building.  

The additions will be on view during the Palace’s next guided tour, which is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 5, from 11a.m. to 12:30p.m.

After a successful 10-week engagement at the Mattatuck Museum in November 2014, the theater’s tenth anniversary history exhibit titled, “A Staged Reflection: 1922-2014,” was moved to the Palace, where several of its elements are now currently on display in the box office lobby. Tour attendees will start their excursion by browsing a visual timeline of historic milestones dating back to the venue’s original opening in 1922, in addition to some historic artifacts, including original theater seats from the 1920s.

In addition to the exhibit, patrons will get a glimpse of rarely seen, pre-restoration photos that will be positioned throughout the theater’s different spaces to provide an impressive before and after comparison. Each Palace Theater tour is approximately 90 minutes and is led by a team of engaging volunteers well-versed in the theater’s rich history, architectural design and entertaining anecdotal information. In addition to exploring the theater, Poli Club and lobby spaces, patrons will also have the opportunity to visit the star dressing rooms and view the venue’s backstage murals that were painted and signed by past performers and Broadway touring companies.

It is important to note that each walking tour covers five floors of history and architecture, including grand staircases from the 1920’s. While elevator access is available, guests with walking disabilities or health concerns are asked to inform the Box Office ahead of time, so that the tour guides can make proper accommodations.

Due to the tours' increasing popularity, reservations are required in advance. Each tour is $5.00 per person and single tickets for individuals or groups of 10 or less can be purchased online atwww.palacetheaterct.org.  Larger groups are asked to contact the Box Office at 203-346-2000 to book their reservations.

For more area information www.litchfieldhills.com

Gilded Age Lecture Series at Wilton Historical Society

This winter, the Wilton Historical Society and Wilton Library are partnering on an informative scholarly series about an important time in America's history, the end of the 19th century known as the Gilded Age. This series examines a changing nation at a critical juncture. Many of today's issues were beginning to take form such as change vs. status quo; federal vs. state involvement; regulation vs. laissez-faire and more. Although registration is required, the lectures are free and open to the public. To register, please call 203-762-3950, ext. 213 or click here.

On Sunday, Feb. 8  from 4 pm to 8 pm the topic will feature Brent Colley, who will deliver a talk entitled, "A Gilded Life: Mark Twain." Mark Twain's life is perceived by many as a 'charmed life' but the reality is the rags to riches story of the most widely recognized author/humorist the world has ever known is not as 'charmed' as one might think. Join us for a discussion of Mark Twain's life and the challenges he faced and overcame throughout the course of his lifetime.

This lecture is followed by another lecture on February 22 from 4 pm - 5:30 pm called Race Relations and Politics in the Gilded Age. Professor James Goodman will discuss how race relations dominate the study of antebellum America, the Civil War, and Reconstruction through 1877  tends to disappear in the Gilded Age, especially in the popular versions of the Gilded Age history. It shouldn't, for we can't understand the U.S. in the Gilded Age without understanding what was going on between black people and white people in the wake of Reconstruction. Nor - if we jump from the end of the first Reconstruction to the beginning of the second (imagining that beginning in 1954 or 1955) - can we understand where we are today.

For more area information www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

Get ready for the "super" MacChilifest February 7 !

The "hottest" gift of this holiday season might be tickets to MacChilifest. This popular event now includes a mac 'n cheese competition. Pairing mac 'n cheese with the chili competition is a natural evolution of this fun filled popular event. Most folks know this event as Chilifest but this year with the brush of a pen, and a new name, people understand immediately that they will be in for more than just great chilii!

MacChilifest will take place at Bedford Middle School in Westport CT on Sunday Feb. 7th from 11 a.m. to 3.p.m. The event is promoted as a pre-Super Bowl event because the Super Bowl is held later in the day. The big game doesn't kick off until close to 7pm; so instead of hanging around to go out or have friends come over, people come out in droves to judge the best chili and now mac 'n cheese in Fairfield County. The event will have a tailgate vibe because attendees will come in their favorite team jersey.

Some even put on eye black! Even the band from Sacred Heart University comes and pumps up the crowd in anticipation of the big game later that day.

Tickets are available online at www.MacChilifest.org as well as at the door. Adults are $15 and kids (6-12) are $5. Everyone is given a spoon, ballot and pencil; and then they are off to enjoy unlimited sampling of 20 different kinds of chili's and mac 'n cheese entries from 18 restaurants as well as local fire departments. The votes of the participants will determine the winner in the classic beef chili category, the creative chili category and the new mac 'n cheese category.

Chilifest benefits the Turtle Fund which seeks to promote the education of young people in art, music, theater, skilled craft and other creative pursuits in order to create a rich cultural heritage for tomorrow.

For more winter event information on Fairfield County www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

Valentine's Day Ideas & Sweet Deals!

If the winter doldrums have set in, a welcome cure is in sight...Valentine's Day! Whether you want to get out on the ski slopes or retreat to a fireside, the inns and resorts of Connecticut's Fairfield County and Litchfield Hills are offering a host of special packages for Valentine's Day.

In Fairfield County for example, the Stamford Marriott Hotel and Spa located on 243 Tresser Boulevard  is offering a  "Connecticut is for Lovers Package" on February 12, 13 or 14^th making it a perfect escape from the city or the “burbs”.  This package includes a king bedded guest room with a bottle of French Sparkling wine and box of specialty chocolates upon arrival in your room.  A scrumptious Valentine’s Day dinner for 2 (call hotel for menu), breakfast buffet for two in the restaurant the next morning and complimentary self-parking is also included.  For an extra special perk, call the on-site Agora Spa to schedule a spa treatment separately or  go on a romantic shopping expedition at the adjacent Stamford Town Center that offers more than 130 shops and restaurants.  To reserve call 203-357-9555 or visit www.stamfordmarriott.com

The Delamar Greenwich Harbor, located on 500 Steamboat Rd. overlooking Long Island Sound is offering a "Month of Love Package", just incase one day isn't enough!  The Delamar Greenwich Harbor Package of Love includes: an overnight stay for two, a long stem rose and rose petal turndown, an in-room bottle of champagne, a gourmet box of truffles and a $40 credit toward breakfast at L'escale Restaurant. To turn your visit into a weekend long celebration, book two nights in a Deluxe Town View room by February 1st and receive a complimentary upgrade to a Deluxe Harbor View Room (complimentary upgrade subject to availability). To book this package call 203-661-9800 or visit www.delamargreenwich.com

The elegant J House Greenwich located on 1114 East Putnam Ave. in Greenwich is offering a Valentine’s Day Getaway on Feb. 14 with rates starting at $399. Guests are invited to unwind at this premiere lifestyle destination that offers luxury hotel accommodations, farm-to-table cuisine, spectacular outdoor dining, rejuvenating spa services, and a premium coffee bar.  This stunning location combines stylish decor and high-tech amenities with warmth and hospitality. The Valentines Day Getaway includes: a King Deluxe or Executive Room, Valentine's Day Dinner for Two and Brunch for Two on Sunday. There is also a late check out at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday that is perfect for extra snuggle time. Call 203-698-6980 or visit wwww.jhousegreenwich.com.

If a Spa break is appeals, then check out the Spa Getaway Package offered by the Marriott Norwalk located on 474 Main Avenue. Start your Valentines Day off in a relaxing mood with a visit to local day spa Dermage, that offers therapeutic facial treatments, massage services, body wraps and scrubs. It's conveniently located just 10 minutes from the Courtyard Norwalk. The Spa Getaway Package includes a spa gift bag upon check-in at hotel, a Dermage spa gift certificate for $100 and breakfast for one at The Bistro. Rates start at $200, for more information visit http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=891930&displayLink=true or call (203) 849-9111.

The Delamar in Southport located on 275 Old Post Road in Southport is offering a full Month of Love Package that is perfect for those that want to celebrate "love" all month long! The Delamar Southport's Package of Love includes: an overnight stay for two, a long stem rose and rose petal turndown, an in-room bottle of champagne, a gourmet box of truffles, complimentary glass of port or sherry at check-in, complimentary valet parking, and complimentary shuttle service within 3-mile radius of hotel to make your evening easy. A couples massage may also be booked separately. Rates start at $337 and the package is good through Feb. 29 to book call 203-259-2800 or visit www.delamarsouthport.com

It's a “Love to Get Away Package" at the Hampton Inn by Hilton in Shelton located on 695 Bridgeport Ave. minutes off Rte. 8. They invite you to celebrate this Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart and are offering a romantic evening for two that includes deluxe accommodations  for one night, sparkling wine and a box of assorted chocolates on arrival, plus a full hot breakfast for two the following morning. Rates start at $129, to learn more call 203-925-5900 or  visit http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/connecticut/hampton-inn-shelton-HVNOBHX/offers/100042391.htm. This offer expires February 19, 2017.

The Hilton Garden Inn, also located in Shelton is offering two different packages. The first is a Romance Package from Feb. 11- Feb. 15 that offers luxurious overnight accommodations for two, chilled sparkling wine or non- alcoholic sparkling cider, complimentary use of the pool and health club and a full breakfast in the hotel restaurant with rates starting at $119. The second package being offered on February 13 is called a Giggly Piggly Painting Party consisting of an afternoon and evening of fun activities for moms and kids. This package is $185, plus 15% tax per adult with a child and includes: an overnight stay, Giggling Pig Paint Studio Session including a shuttle ride to and from the studio, a Pizza Buffet Dinner, Swimming and a full breakfast the next morning. To book this fun event call 203-447-1000 and mention “GIGPIG to book this package. To reserve your room call 203.447.1000 or visit - WWW.SHELTON.STAYHGI.COM

The Courtyard by Marriott located on 780 Bridgeport Avenue in Shelton is offering a Month of Love Package through February 29 that offers overnight accommodations for two at this newly renovated hotel in a deluxe guest room, a Bottle of Champagne and assorted chocolates in your room and a $30 gift card to Bow Tie Cinemas in Trumbull, CT.  On the next morning enjoy a complimentary breakfast for two. Rates start at $129 to book call 203-929-1500 or visit www.marriott.com/BDRCY

The newly renovated Ethan Allen Hotel located on 21 Lake Avenue Extension in Danbury is offering a Romance Package on Feb. 14-15. This lavish package includes an overnight stay in a suite of your choice and  comes with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, hand dipped chocolate covered strawberries and even a bottle of Prosecco. The next morning you will be treated to a breakfast fit for a king and queen at the Fairfield Restaurant. Visit www. Ethanallenhotel.com or call (203) 744.1776 for rates.

Spring Hill Suites, located minutes off I-84 on 30 Old Ridgebury Rd, in Danbury is offering a sweet Romance Packager (through November 2016) that is perfect for Valentine’s Day. The package features a suite with a king size bed, a complimentary buffet breakfast for two each morning, one bottle of Prosecco Sparkling Wine and one box of Godiva chocolates. For added romance, rose petals will be sprinkled on your bed the first night of your stay and there is even a late checkout at 1:30 p.m. for some extra snuggle time – who could ask for more! To book call (203) 744-7333 or visit http://marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=1015508&displayLink=true

In Northwest Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills several country inns, resorts and restaurants have put together romantic specials perfect for a sweet weekend or meal together. If your idea of romance is a country inn, the Old Riverton Inn located on 436 East River Road in the charming village of Riverton might be for you. This historic inn is furnished in Hitchcock Furniture that was made in this village and the property overlooks the Farmington River. They are offering a special Cupid Country Inn Package on February 14 that includes an overnight stay in a king or queen room, a bottle of champagne and chocolates upon arrival and a continental breakfast the next morning for $155 a night. For more information visit www.rivertoninn.com or call 860 379 8678.

The Litchfield Inn is offering a sweet deal for sweethearts that includes dinner, champagne, and over night accommodations in luxurious newly renovated king or queen theme rooms for $299 per night on Feb. 13 or 14. To book this package visit http://www.litchfieldinnct.com

The Inn at Kent Falls Bed and Breakfast is located on 107 Kent-Cornwall Road in the beautiful town of Kent Connecticut.  This quaint town has many interesting shops and galleries to explore and many well marked trails to hike or cross country ski; Mohawk Ski area is only 15 minutes away. The Inn at Kent Falls, located near Connecticut’s largest waterfall is offering a Simply Romantic package that includes overnight accommodations for two nights in a deluxe room, a complimentary bottle of wine and truffles upon arrival for $494.50 inclusive of tax. To book this simply wonderful deal call 860-927-3197 or visit: www.theinnatkentfalls.com

If the idea of a “Lovers Tryst" appeals then head to the Interlaken Inn located on 74 Interlaken Rd. in Lakeville on Feb. 12, 13 or 14. The package includes: overnight accommodations for one night in a standard room, a 4-course gourmet Aphrodisiac Dinner for two, a single red rose and breakfast for two in the Vineyard Room the next morning. As a special bonus, guests are invited to stay an extra night for an additional $199. If you are looking to really indulge your sweetheart, check out Interlaken’s “Ultimate Lovers Getaway”. This lavish package is packed with romantic elements that includes: overnight accommodations for one night in your choice of their incredible deluxe Basha Cottage, Penthouse Suite, Lime Rock Suite with hot tub or Woodside Honeymoon Suite, early 3:00 pm check-in, Rose petal turndown, candlelit 10-piece sampler from the award winning Milk House Chocolate Company, a 4-course gourmet Aphrodisiac Dinner for two, one dozen red roses, a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne on ice upon your arrival, 24-hour butler service in your suite or cottage, breakfast for two in your suite or cottage and late 1:00 pm check-out. The package is $1000 inclusive. To book either package call: 800-222-2909 or www.interlakeninn.com.

The Tree House in Sharon Connecticut is also offering a Valentines Day Package in their gorgeous romantically furnished studio apartment that is nestled in the Litchfield Hills. Rates start at $250 a night for two guests that want to get away and Unwind in the hills.  To book a room call 860-435-0196.  This very private property overlooks a 30-acre pond and has an Asian flavor to its decor.

Two dining opportunities are being offered by Mayflower Grace in Washington and Carole Peck’s Good News Café in Woodbury. On February 14, wine and dine with that special someone special at The Mayflower Grace located in the heart of Washington Connecticut on 118 Woodbury Road when they will be offering their divine Valentine’s Day menu, including Goats Milk Ricotta Gnocchi and Hudson Valley Foie Gras Terrine and more that will ensure an evening of pure indulgence. The cost of the Valentines Day Pre Fixed Dinner is  $125.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity and alcohol. To reserve call 860-868-9466 or visit www.gracehotels.com/mayflower.

At Carole Peck’s Good News Café, located on 694 Main Street South in Woodbury, try the “Lovers Leap” specials that consist of a range of romantically delicious dishes including such items as: lover's kissed mache greens with house smoked scallops and passion fruit & cream & sesame lovers sprinkles, Fluke with orzo pasta leeks & asparagus and aphrodisiac tomato "beurre rouge" and radiant red tobiko caviar, and Rosemary scented whole Rack of Lamb with yellow potato & cheese gratin and brussel sprout & garlic hearts, to name a few. Several enticing special desserts are also being offered such as the Chocolate Whiskey cake with fluffy banana cream & crunchy cocoa brittle and the 9 Blood Orange cheesecake with toasted hazelnuts and berries. For reservations call 203-266-4663 or visit www.good-news-cafe.com.

For more area information on Litchfield Hills and Fairfield County visit www.visitwesternct.com

Secrets of Fossil Lake at the Bruce Museum

The Bruce Museum, located on One Museum Drive in Greenwich  has a fascinating new exhibition that is on view through April 17, 2016 called the Secrets of Fossil Lake and for anyone with an interest in paleontology, this is a must see exhibition.

Fossil Freshwater Stingray
Asterotrygon maloneyi
52 million years ago
Fossil Lake, Green River Formation
Bruce Museum Collection 84.30.02

“Fossil Lake is arguably the most important paleontological site in the world... the detail of preservation is beyond exceptional.”

- Dr. Daniel Ksepka, Curator of Science and expert on fossil birds

. Travel back in time to a lake that vanished 50 million years ago. This exhibition brings together a remarkable assemblage of fossils that capture an ancient ecosystem from a time when Wyoming was covered in subtropical forests. Encounter ferocious predatory fish, delicate feathered birds, and tiny primitive horses, all preserved in astonishingly beautiful fossils.​The exhibition is organized to provide an overview of the aquatic ecosystem within Fossil Lake and the terrestrial ecosystem along its shores.

• See fossils from aquatic animals that lived in the lake itself, terrestrial animals that fossilized when chance events washed them in to the waters, and the leaves, fruits, and branches of the forests that grew alongside.
• Learn how museum preparators painstakingly remove the rock matrix to expose a new fossil specimen, and how paleontologists piece together the lifestyles of extinct species from fossil evidence.
• Visualize extinct plants and animals through two large murals with life reconstructions. 
• Watch a fossil emerge from the rock in a time-lapse video documenting 90 hours of preparation work. 
• Try a hands-on activity that tests their skills at identifying perch, herring, and other fish from their fossil skeletons.  

“These fossils capture remarkable moments from the lives of the animals. A soft-shelled turtle bears bite marks on its shell, testifying to a close encounter with a crocodilian. A freshwater stingray is preserved with the last of its three stingers detached near its tail, perhaps fired in a final deadly encounter.  A densely packed layer of herrings lies side by side, wiped out in a mass die-off caused by lethal water conditions.”   Dr. Daniel Ksepka .

Fossil Beaked Sandfish
Notogoneus osculus
52 million years ago
Fossil Lake, Green River Formation
Gift of Anita Jacobs Wainwright, in memory of her father and mother, Mr. & Mrs. Hobart B. Jacobs. Secured through courtesy of Carleton Bradley
Bruce Museum Collection 20022

For more information on Fairfield County visit www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com