Thursday, November 8, 2018

Institute for American Indian Studies to Honor Native American Veterans Charles Lindberg Kilson and Earl Anderson Kilson November 10

 The origin of Veterans Day goes back to Nov. 11, 1918, and is the anniversary of the signing of the armistice that ended World War I hostilities between the Allied Nations and Germany.  As many of us remember and honor those who have served the United States in the military, many of us remain unaware of the major contributions Native Americans have made to our armed forces. 



It is interesting to note that Native Americans served in the U.S. military in greater numbers per capita than any other ethnic group and that they have served with distinction in every major conflict in our history. 

It is estimated that more than 12,000 Native Americans served in World War I and that 44,000 Native Americans, out of a total population of 350,000 served with distinction between 1941 and 1945.  During WWII on the home front, more than 40,000 Native Americans left their reservations to work in factories and other war industries.  Many of these battle-hardened Native American Indians that served in WWII also served in the Korean War along with new Native American recruits like Charles Lindberg Kilson and his late brother, Earl Anderson Kilson.  More than 42,000 Native Americans, 90% of them volunteers fought in Vietnam, and Earl Anderson Kilson was one of the many Native Americans that continued to serve their country in the Vietnam War.  Today, there are almost 200,000 Native American military veterans.

Each year on November 10, The Institute for American Indian Studies, located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington holds a traditional ceremony at 12 noon that includes prayers and drumming to honor the contributions and valor of Native American Veterans. This year there will be a very special traditional ceremony at the Institute for American Indian Studies to honor Charles Lindberg Kilson, Senior, as well as the memory of his brother Earl Anderson Kilson, Senior of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation. Both brothers served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Earl also served during the early years of the Vietnam War.  The Institute is inviting the general public, veterans and non-veterans alike to join them in a moving traditional ceremony to honor these two Native American brothers.  After the ceremony, visitors are invited to a light lunch in the museum to learn more about the fascinating story of these two brothers.  This event is free and open to the public. 

About Charles Lindberg Kilson

Charles (Lindy) was born on May 16, 1931, and currently resides in Sandy Hook, Connecticut. For many years, he and his family lived on the Schaghticoke Indian Reservation in Kent, CT where he is an active member with the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation.  He has many memories that remain alive of his younger days of hunting and fishing on his land.

The War Years

On December 29, 1950, Charlie took the train from Kent, CT and traveled to the Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York where he enlisted and was sworn into the United States Navy. Shortly after boot camp, he was assigned to duty on a destroyer named, the USS Purdy. Afterwards, he was assigned to another destroyer named, the USS Dickson #708. Both homeports of both vessels were located in Newport, Rhode Island and both ships, at different times, were at port off the Korean coast during the Korean War patrols.

On October 19, 1952, Charlie had to undergo major surgery at the Newport Naval Hospital, which involved removing part of his left lung. This particular medical procedure kept him hospitalized for nearly six months.  While in the hospital, Charlie's father, Earl Kilson, Sr. was able to visit his son with the assistance and kindness of a Kent Resident State Trooper who drove him there. Upon Charlie's release from the naval hospital, he immediately requested to be put back on the USS Dickson where his brother Earl, Jr. was stationed. Earl had enlisted in the Navy four years prior. The Navy granted Charlie's request and both brothers served together until Earl's transfer to submarine service where he worked in fire control ignition. Charlie also requested a transfer and was denied due to the complexity of his surgery.  Naval officials told Charles that he and Earl were the first brothers to be put on a naval ship together, since the death of the Sullivan Brothers during World War II.

Back Home

While on the USS Dickson, Charlie was a 1st Class Seaman­ Gunner's Mate. He specialized and assisted in bow guns, which were 5 inch-38s. Charlie stayed on the USS Dickson until January 1954, when he returned home to the Schaghticoke Reservation, where his family resided with his younger brother, Russell.  He found work with the Thompson Brothers Excavation Company. Shortly after his return home, Charlie met Mildred (Millie) Fagan the woman that he was to spend the next 63 years with.  Together, they began a family and moved to Sandy Hook where, in 1970, they both were employed with the Newtown High School, Charlie as a School Custodian and Millie as a Cafeteria Assistant. After 42 years at the Newtown High School, both Millie and Charlie retired.

On November 11, 2009, the Town of Kent dedicated a monument for veterans serving in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam War Veterans, and both Charlie and Earl, Jr. names are listed on it and were present for the dedication ceremony.  Charlie still has his Enlistment Card and still remembers his serial number.

Charlie is a profoundly proud member of his Tribe, the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation (STN). He has always been active within his Tribe & attends every Tribal meeting and every social event.  Many believe that Charlie is the oldest living member and that his many titles include Lindy (to his family) Charlie (to his many friends) Dad, Pop, Grandpa, Uncle, Cousin, Big Dog and Elder/STN Tribal Member.

About Earl Anderson Kilson

Earl (Bub) Kilson was born on July 11, 1928, and lived with his family on the Schaghticoke Reservation in Kent, for much of his young life. Upon his death, he was an active member of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation. Earl had many memories of his hunting and fishing days on his land.

War Years

Earl enlisted into the United States Navy in 1946.  Shortly after his graduation from boot camp during World War II, he was stationed and onboard an aircraft carrier in the Sea of Japan.  He was later assigned to a destroyer and was stationed at the Naval Base in Newport, Rhode Island. His brother, Charlie, along with Earl both served on the USS Dickson, which was scheduling patrols off the Korean coast during the Korean War. Earl, later, transferred to submarine service working in fire control ignition. His first ship was an old diesel-operated submarine and his next advancement was serving on the USS Seawolf, the second atomic-operated submarine in the U.S. Fleet.  Most of Earl’s submarine training took place in Connecticut at the sub base in Groton.

During the Cuban Missile Crisis, the submarine that Earl was serving on was part of the blockade and was under orders to stay in position during that crisis.  At another point in Earl's naval career, he was stationed in the Pacific at Pearl Harbor during the initial stages of the Vietnam War.  At this time he served in the Atlantic Fleet as well as the Pacific Fleet. The final submarine that Earl served on was the USS Trigger.

Back Home

After 20 years of service, Earl retired from the Navy with the rank of Chief Electronics Petty Officer in 1966.  He, along with his wife Lillian, and their children moved to Dover, New Hampshire where he was employed at the Portsmouth Naval Yard in Kittery, Maine.  There, Earl participated in the sea trials associated with new submarines that were being constructed; his wife, Lillian was proud to be present at several sea trials.   

Earl retired from the Portsmouth Naval Yard after 20 years.  He was an active member of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation and for many years would travel to attend the Schaghticoke Tribal meetings and socials.  He resided in Dover with his family until his death on March 16, 2014.


Wednesday, November 7, 2018

World War Women: The Unsung Heroines of WWII

The Naugatuck Historical Society is excited to bring back Judith Kalaora, on November 11 at 2:30 pm. Kalaora brings history to life and will be sharing the stories of World War II women whose major roles in the war are mostly untold. 


The program will take place at St. Michael's Parish Hall, 210 Church Street in Naugatuck. Judith Kalaora from History At PlayTM embodies the spirit of international women who risked their lives to defeat Fascism in World War II. World War Women is a suspenseful program reliving of the terrors and triumphs of some of our greatest heroines. 

The event is sponsored by the CT Community Foundation and Liberty Bank. The presentation will include a light luncheon and be held in St. Michael’s Parish Hall. Tickets are $30, $25 for members. For more information call the Naugatuck Historical Society at 203-729-9039.

Monday, November 5, 2018

Felting Workshop for Kids: Making Felted Mittens

On Saturday, November 10 from 11 am to 12:30 pm the Wilton Historical Society is hosting a workshop on felting for kids. One of the world’s oldest textiles felt is created from wool or other animal fibers that are densely matted together. It is ideal for protecting against cold and insulating against heat, thus it has long been used for hats, mittens, blankets, rugs, yurts, boots and clothing. In this Felting Workshop for Kids, Museum Educator Lola Chen will discuss the origins of felting and lead the children in making felted mittens from recycled sweaters. The kids will help make their own snack.

Suggested for ages 6 – 12. Wilton Historical Society Members $10 per child, maximum $25 per family; Non-members $15 per child, maximum $35 per family. Please register: info@wiltonhistorical.org or call 203-762-7257.
Did You Know?
Making felted hats, Danbury was known as “Hat City” . . . and hatters suffered “Danbury Shakes”

“The origins of Danbury’s hat-making industry date back to the late 18th century. It was then that Zadoc Benedict, having stumbled upon a way to make felt by adding heat, moisture, and pressure to animal pelts, began using his bedpost to mold felt into hats. He then hired a journeyman and two hat-making apprentices and started producing three hats per day. Danbury proved an ideal location for hat making thanks to its abundant populations of beavers and rabbits for pelts and thickly wooded forests for firewood. . . . In the early 1800s, Danbury produced mostly unfinished hats. Hatters softened and dyed the felt through an 18- to 20-hour boiling process, and molded the pieces into their proper shape. They then rolled the hats up by twos into paper and placed them in a linen bag, and from there, into a leather sack for shipment to New York by coach. Once in New York, craftsmen trimmed and finished the hats.” – ConnecticutHistory.org, a program of CT Humanities
The expression “as mad as a hatter” is believed to have its origins in the deleterious effects of mercury nitrate exposure on workers in hat factories. During the mid-19th century, the term “hatter’s shakes” became commonplace in the United States and Europe. It referred to the tremors experienced by workers whose prolonged exposure to the toxic mercury used in making headwear had devastating effects. In Connecticut, the physical condition was termed the “Danbury Shakes.”

American Museum of Tort Law presents Thomas Fortune Fay, Pioneering Advocate for Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism

On Thursday, November 8 at 7 pm join the American Museum of Tort Law in welcoming  the renowned Attorney Thomas Fortune Fay, at the Leaders In Law presentation series 



Working with Congress, the State Department and victim’s families, Thomas Fortune Fay pioneered the use of US Civil litigation to recover billions of dollars for victims of state-sponsored terrorism; from soldiers in the Beirut barracks bombing to the 9/11 families.
 
Fay was also instrumental in developing legislation which has been upheld by the Supreme Court, allowing plaintiffs to be compensated by countries who sponsor terrorism, including Iran and Saudi Arabia.
 
The mission of the American Museum of Tort Law is to educate the public about the importance of trial by jury and benefits of tort law; and to celebrate the important work trial lawyers do every day, for their clients, the profession and our country.  
 
With the Leaders In Law series, we are committed to providing a thought-provoking platform for culturally, politically and legally relevant discourse with the most provocative and inspiring voices in law today. Part Interview, part Master Class, part Town Hall meeting, the series encourages thoughtful and lively interaction between our speakers and individuals from all walks of life.
      
Please join them and be part of the conversation. SPECIAL GROUP OFFER: A VIP Pass, good for one individual to attend a private reception with attorney Fay, will be provided for every group of four friends, colleagues or members who purchase tickets.
 
Seating is limited. For additional details on the Leaders In Law presentation series, and to reserve your tickets to see Thomas Fortune Fay, please visit www.tortmuseum.org or call 860-379-0505 today. Suggested donation is $20.00, which includes a free tour of the Museum. Doors open at 6:00pm.

Friday, November 2, 2018

Ski Sundown Ski Swap Nov.2-4

Winter is just around the corner, and we wanted to help Ski Sundown has organized their annual Ski Swap that is coming up November 2-4, 2018.



Skiing doesn’t have to be expensive! The annual Sundown Ski Patrol Ski Swap, held at Ski Sundown in New Hartford, is a tradition signaling the start of the ski season, and an awesome way to stock up on all of your ski and snowboard needs at great prices! Sell the gear you don’t need or the kids have outgrown, and get deals for the entire family on new and gently used equipment and outerwear. This swap is one of the oldest and largest in New England.



The Ski Sundown Ski Patrol is a non-profit organization dedicated to the medical care for the skiing and snowboarding public at Ski Sundown in New Hartford, CT.  The annual Ski Swap is their primary fundraising event for the year to provide funds for medical supplies and training, and a portion of sales is donated to Ski Sundown Ski Patrol



Swap Hours are Friday, November 2, from 4pm-9pm; Saturday, November 3, from 10am – 8pm; and Sunday, November 4, from 10am - 4pm.
If you plan to sell equipment and clothing, drop off times are Friday, November 2, from 2pm - 9pm; and Saturday, November 3, from 9am – 2pm. No items will be accepted for the Swap on Sunday, November 4. Equipment must meet DIN Standards and will be checked by a member of Ski Patrol before being entered into the Swap.
Items available for purchase include skis, ski boots, poles (both Alpine and Nordic); snowboards and snowboard boots, helmets, jackets, ski and snowboard pants, and clothing.
Seven different area ski shops will also be bringing brand new inventory for sale.



Credit cards, debit cards, cash, and checks will be accepted, and an ATM is available in the lodge.
For more information visit the Ski Patrol website www.skisundownnsp.org.

Ski Sundown is located at 126 Ratlum Road, off Routes 44 and 219, in New Hartford, Connecticut.  For lift ticket and rental rates, lesson, programs and event information, visit skisundown.com.  

Disney's Newsies @ Warner Theatre Nov. 3-11

The Warner Theatre in Torrington will be presenting Disney's Newsies from November 3-11 on their Main Stage.



Set in NYC at the turn of the century, this is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy, and leader of a ragged band of teenaged “newsies” who dream of only a better life far from the hardship of the streets. The story is inspired by the real-life “Newsboy Strike of 1899,” when newsboy Kid Blink led a band of orphaned newsies on an action against powerful newspaper publishers. 

High energy and with non-stop thrills, the stage version introduces eight brand-new songs by the original team of Alan Menken and Jack Feldman while keeping many of the beloved songs from the film. Performances are November 3, 9 and 10 at 8 pm and November 4 and 11 at 2 pm. Directed by Richard McKenna with music director Jim Luurtsema and co-choreographers Sharon W. Houk and Caitlin Nolan Beaudry.

For tickets and more information click here.

Thursday, November 1, 2018

Annual Great Mac & Chili Challenge Nov. 4

Tickets for the 4th Annual Great Mac & Chili Challenge at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport CT for Sunday, November 4, 2018, are now on sale online at www.MacAndChiliChallenge.com.   The Great Mac and Chili Challenge is the little sister culinary competition to Chowdafest.  “We started this event years ago because so many people who enjoy Chowdafest asked about chili.  Chili is another popular comfort food but it deserves a separate event” said Jim Keenan, event director.  “We realized that’s it’s very difficult to hold a chili-only event as after a few samples, they start tasting the same so it was natural to pair it with mac ‘n cheese.  So if you alternate sampling a chili with a mac ‘n cheese, you can determine who has the best of both”.



Like Chowdafest, everyone gets a spoon, pencil and a ballot when they check in.  They enjoy unlimited sampling of up to 20 different chili and mac n' cheese entries from great local restaurants.  Admission is just $15 for adults and $5 for kids (6-12), parking is FREE.  The event will benefit Food Rescue US in the ongoing fight against food insecurity.  The Great Mac & Chili Challenge is rain or shine and will be under the pavilion if the weather is inclement.

Restaurants compete in one of four categories:   Classic chili, classic mac, creative chili and creative mac.  This year’s competition roster includes: Burger Bar & Bistro* (Norwalk), Cask Republic* (Stamford), Clubhouse Grille (Norwalk), Dinosaur BBQ (Stamford), Fleisher’s Craft Butchery (Westport), Geronimo Tequila Bar & Southwest Grill* (Fairfield), Hub & Spoke* (Black Rock), I’m the Mac (Stamford), Little Pub (Fairfield, Greenwich, Ridgefield, Wilton), Old Post Tavern (Fairfield),  Planet Pizza (Norwalk), Senor Salsa (Westport), Simply Delicious* (Westport), Tacos Mexicon (Norwalk) and Tarry Lodge (Westport)  *defending category champion.

The event has origins as Chilifest but when Keenan added the mac ‘n cheese component, they needed to change the name and wanted to stay away from the word fest.  “When we started Chowdafest, there were no  other fests around but now everyone calls their event a fest.  We wanted this event to stand out plus personally, we wanted to pay homage to one of the best things about this time of year – “The Great Pumpkin” by Charles Schultz.  Who doesn’t love Linus staying up all night to catch the Great Pumpkin?  Maybe you’ll find him at the Great Mac & Chili Challenge” he laughed.


Tickets are also available at the door.  For additional information about The Great Mac & Chili Challenge, please visit them online at www.MacAndChiliChallenge.com or contact Jim Keenan at chowdafest@gmail.com.  The Great Mac & Chili Challenge, is sponsored by: Cabot Creamery, WEBE 108, Harney & Son Teas and City Carting & Recycling

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

The Life and Times of Robert Ripley @ P.T. Barnum Museum

Historian Tim O'Brien will present a program featuring the life and times of Robert Ripley, often called the 20th Century P.T. Barnum, at The Barnum Museum on Thursday, November 1, 2018, starting at 7:00 p.m.

Most people have heard and perhaps even have used the expression ‘believe it, or not’ at some point in their lives.  But most people do not know where the phrase comes from.  It was Robert Ripley, the 20th-century P.T. Barnum.  An anthropologist, cartoonist, and entrepreneur, Ripley ingeniously aggrandized trivia and popularized the ordinary and unusual.  As a writer for William Randolph Hearst syndicated global newspapers, Ripley’s “Believe It Or Not” was published in more than 17 countries reaching hundreds of thousands of curiosity seekers all over the world.  From his original “Believe It Or Not” cartoon in 1918, to the more than 100 Ripley’s attractions that are in operation today worldwide, Ripley’s legacy continues to push our imagination.

The November 1 evening at The Barnum Museum will include larger-than-life stories, mysterious tales and fantastical illuminations about Barnum and Ripley …and the people, places, and things that make the world inextricable and wondrous.…’believe it or not!’

Barnum and Ripley were both wildly popular, successful and odd and offbeat in their own different ways.  O'Brien is a member of the prestigious International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Hall of Fame, as is Barnum.  In fact, it was O'Brien who nominated P.T. Barnum back in 2012 to be inducted posthumously into the IAAPA Hall of Fame.

The Barnum Museum is located at 820 Main Street right next to the People's United Bank headquarters in downtown Bridgeport.