Fiber arts, tea party among local Sunday events

Here are just a few of the fun and interesting events, many of them free, happening in our area today, Sunday, May 20.

FIBER ARTS FESTIVAL — COVENTRY

A Stitch in Time Fiber Arts Festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Expected are spinners, knitters, weavers, quilters and other artists at the Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry. Donations accepted. Free tour of the homestead for CT Landmarks members. Members-to-be can take a guided tour for just $5. Info: (860) 742-6917.

THIRD ANNUAL CRUISE DAY

The Ashford Senior Center presents the third annual Cruise Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 25 Tremko Lane, Ashford. Info: (860) 487-5122.

EXHIBIT OPENING — CRANDALL MUSEUM

The Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host an exhibit opening of “Friends and Neighbors: Canterbury’s 18th and 19th Century African- American Residents” beginning at 11 a.m.

RABIES VACCINATIONS — SCOTLAND

The Town of Scotland will host its annual rabies vaccination clinic next month. The clinic will be held at the Scotland Fire Safety Complex, 47 Brook Road, from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $12 per vaccination and only cash will be accepted.

POETRY READING — CRANDALL MUSEUM

Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host a poetry reading from 1 to 3 p.m. Poets Marilyn Nelson (Connecticut Poet Laureate 2001-2006) Bessy Reyna and Kate Rushin will read from the book “Miss Crandall’s School for Young Ladies and Little Misses of Color.” Program includes dance performance by Deborah Goffee, artistic director and founder of Scapegoat Garden dance theater in Hartford. Admission: $6 adults/$4 senior citizens (60 and over) and youth (6-17), ages 5 and under free. Info: (860) 546-7800.

SPRING TEA LUNCHEON — CRANDALL MUSEUM

The Friends of the Prudence Crandall Museum Inc., will present the annual Spring Tea Luncheon from 1 to 3 p.m. at Carter House, next to the Prudence Crandall Museum in Canterbury at the intersection of routes 14 and 169. Cost is $17 per person and reservations must be made due to limited seating. In addition, the fee includes entrance to the Crandall Museum. Call (860) 546-9266 now to reserve your place.

CHICKEN BARBECUE — WILLIMANTIC

The Willimantic VFW Post 1724 Ladies Auxiliary, will host a chicken barbecue from 3 to 6 p.m. at the VFW home, Main Street, Willimantic. Cost is $7/person.

WVNA MONTHLY MEETING

The Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association will conduct its monthly meeting at 3:30 p.m. at its meeting house at 869 Main St., Willimantic. Potluck dinner to follow at 201 Lewiston Ave., Willimantic.

WINE AND BEER FESTIVAL IN HAMPTON

Joshua’s Tract Conservation and Historic Trust will host a wine and beer festival at the Hampton Community Center, 178 Main St., Hampton, to raise funds for its land conservation activities from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Co-sponsored with Bombadil’s Spirit Shop, Mansfield. Cost is $35 per person for members, $40 for non-members. Advance reservations are recommended. A reservation form with online payment is available at www.joshuaslandtrust.org. Tickets will be available at the door until the event is sold out.

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News. https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews

Events for Saturday May 19: Plant sales, live music, quilt show and more

Here are some of the fun community events taking place on Saturday, May 19. If you’d like your activity or group meeting included in the weekend listing, please send your information (see below for format) to editor@htnp.com

BIRD WATCHING

The Natchaug Ornithological Society hosts a free field trip to Boston Hollow. Because of limited parking, the group will meet at 7:30 a.m. at Ashford Elementary School on Route 89 and carpool from there. Questions? Contact, Tom Harrington at greatgrayowl@sbcglobal.net

PLANT SALE AND MORE – WILLIMANTIC

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 220 Valley Street, Willimantic hosts, “Do the Spring Thing.” For complete details, visit http://stpaulswillimantic.org Kick off is 9 a.m. on Sat, May 19 with start of annual plant sale. Sunday, May 20, the congregation of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and local residents take time to give back to our creator with a 9 a.m. service of song and thanksgiving. Then plant trees, retrieve trash, tour the Taylor Court Community Garden where we grow vegetables for the Covenant Soup Kitchen, take a walking tour, visit our plant sale – and have lunch at St. Paul’s. For a minimum donation of $5, each person will receive a seedling tree, a recycle bag, bumper sticker, bottled water and an informational packet on the “Spring Thing.” Everyone is invited to join us for lunch.

CHAPLIN PLANT SALE

Chaplin Elementary School, 240 Palmer Road, Chaplin, hosts a plant sale in the school cafeteria from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

FLEA MARKET — MANSFIELD

Southeast Elementary School, 134 Warrenville Road (Route 89), Mansfield, hosts a flea market from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

NATURE HIKE — HAMPTON

The Goodwin Forest Conservation Education Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton, leads an interpretive 3.25-mile hike to Black Spruce Pond from 9 a.m. to noon; it will feature looks at returning migratory birds, spring wildflowers and a newly regenerated hardwood forest. Info/registration: (860) 455-9534.

SWIM LESSON SIGN-UPS

Sign-ups for Red Cross swim lessons will take place at the Lebanon town pool, corner of Route 87 and 207, Lebanon, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

SPRING BAZAAR — MANSFIELD

Mansfield Senior Center, 303 Maple Road, Storrs, holds its spring bazaar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

TOWN-WIDE TAG SALE – Andover

The Town of Andover holds its annual town-wide tag sale from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m. Maps are available in the town clerk’s office or in the bulletin board in front of the town office building, 17 School Road, Andover.

ANNUAL PLANT SALE — WINDHAM

The Garden Club of Windham invites residents to its annual plant sale from 9 a.m. to noon in the cafeteria at Windham High School, 355 High St., Willimantic. Proceeds are contributed to the Windham community in support of enrichment programs, activities and public space beautification. Visit us at http://gardenclubofwindham.org

VILLAGE COFFEE — WINDHAM CENTER

St. Paul’s Church, Plains Road, Windham Center, hosts a village coffee event every other Saturday through the beginning of June from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. These coffee hours offer Windham Center residents and anyone else a place to gather, catch up on happenings in the area, discuss local issues, meet neighbors and relax over free coffee, tea and snacks.

PLANT AND BAKE SALE — SCOTLAND

The Congregational Church of Scotland hosts a plant and bake sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Scotland Green, Route 14, Scotland.

FARM DAY — SCOTLAND

Scotland Historical Society hosts Farm Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Waldo House, Waldo Road, Scotland. Many demonstrations and other events. Antique cars and farm vehicles will also be on display. Rain or shine. Admission: $5 adults; children under age 12 free. Info: (860) 456-0081and/or www.scotlandhistoricalsociety.org PLEASE, no pets.

FIBER ARTS FESTIVAL — COVENTRY

“A Stitch in Time Fiber Arts Festival” will take place Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Expected are spinners, knitters, weavers, quilters and other artists at the Nathan Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry. Donations accepted. Free tour of the homestead for CT Landmarks members. Members-to-be can take a guided tour for just $5. Info: (860) 742-6917.

SCHOOL FUN FAIR — MANSFIELD

Goodwin Elementary School, 321 Hunting Lodge Road, Mansfield, hosts a fun fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come enjoy hours of fun with something for everyone.

FAMILY STORY TIME — MANSFIELD

Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Road, Mansfield, holds a family story time at 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Info: (860) 423-2501 or visit www.mansfieldpubliclibraryct.org

HISTORIC OPEN HOUSE – SCOTLAND

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., tour guides will lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence and considered by some to be the true first American president. The Gov. Samuel Huntington Trust opens the homestead on the first and third Saturdays of each month through October and is located on Route 14 just west of the Scotland town center. Free admission, but donations appreciated. Info: Visit http://huntingtonhomestead.org or call (860) 423-1547.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT – MANSFIELD

Hospice of Eastern Connecticut holds its Saturday Bereavement Group from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 34 Ledgebrook Drive, Mansfield. This support group is appropriate for those who are grieving a year or more and is open to the community. Info: (860) 456-7288 ext. 293

‘PURAPLICIOUS’ TEA PARTY – S. WINDHAM

Guilford Smith Memorial Library, 17 Main St., South Windham, hosts a tea party at noon. Drop by for tea and wear fancy clothes. Info: (860) 423-5159.

300 YEARS OF QUILTS – COVENTRY

300 Years of Coventry Quilts exhibit will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Sponsored by the Coventry Historical Society at the Strong-Porter Museum, 2382 South St., Coventry. View nearly 100 antique and new quilts in all phases of construction along a picturesque woodland path. Info: email gdilk@aol.com or call (860) 742-9656. Donation: $5 per person.

LAMPWORK EXHIBIT — LEBANON

The Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House, 780 Trumbull Highway, Route 87, Lebanon opens for the 2012 season from noon to 4 p.m. with a reception for Lebanon artist Jaci Sinkewicz and the opening of her exhibit, “Glass and Fire: The Art of Lampworking.” Lampworking is a type of glasswork that uses a gas-fueled torch. Info: (860) 642-7987. To learn more about Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. visit http://historicbuildingsct.com/?p=642, and to learn more about his father, the Connecticut governor, visit http://www.govtrumbullhousedar.org

MEMORIAL MUSIC FEST – LEBANON

The Casey Yates Memorial Music Festival will be held at 1 p.m. at the Lebanon Fairgrounds, Mack Road, Lebanon. Admission is $10. This event will portray Yates’ love for music by providing a place for family, friends and people in the community to come together and enjoy music by several local musicians. Members of Yate’s band, “Moss.” will perform songs written and recorded by Yates that will be played live for the first time at the Memorial Music Festival. Donations/checks can be made to Casey’s Charities, 175 Sisson Road, Lebanon 06249. Casey Dane Yates, 24, of Lebanon, CT died July 5, 2011 after a tragic accident in Dallas. He was born in Willimantic, CT on July 24, 1986. Casey was a passionate and caring young man with a unique sense of humor. He loved his music and helping people. He was an accomplished scholar, earning many awards in high school and college. He graduated from Lyman Memorial H.S. in 2005 and from University of Hartford in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude in Radiology/CT. At the time of his death, he was a post- baccalaureate pre-med student at the University of Texas at Dallas.

FARMERS MARKET — STORRS

Storrs Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m. The market is located in the Mansfield Town Hall parking lot on Storrs Road (Route 195) You can find Storrs Farmers Market on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/StorrsFarmersMarket

POTLUCK AND LIVE MUSIC — WILLIMANTIC

The Country Misfits will perform at the VFW Post 1724, Main Street, Willimantic, from 4 to 8 p.m. Potluck, bring a dish to share.

HAM AND BEAN SUPPER — MANSFIELD

Echo Grange 180 holds a ham and bean supper at the Grange Hall, 483 Storrs Road (Route 195), in Mansfield Center from 5 to 7 p.m. Proceeds from the supper will be used to further community service projects. Adults are $8, seniors $7, children 4-12 are $5 and children under 4 eat for free. Takeout dinners also available.

LASAGNA DINNER — LEBANON

Goshen Congregational Church, 157 Church Road, Lebanon, hosts a lasagna dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Adults $10, seniors $9, children age 12 and under $5, children under age 5 eat for free. Proceeds to benefit GCC Scholarship Fund. Info: (860) 642-4336.

HAM AND BEAN SUPPER — HEBRON

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 30 Church St. (Route 85), Hebron, holds a ham and beans dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is $12 adults, $6 children ages 6-12, and kids 5 and younger eat for free. Info: (860) 228-3244 or visit www.StPetersHebron.com

PROGRAM AND POTLUCK — MANSFIELD

First Church of Christ in Mansfield, UCC, 549 Storrs Road hosts a Sierra Leone presentation with potluck supper at 6 p.m. Artifacts, food, history of Sierra Leone. All invited. Info: (860) 423-9008.

SPAGHETTI AND RAFFLE – WILLINGTON

Willington Nursery Cooperative hosts a spaghetti dinner at the Willington Hill Fire Department, 24 Old Farms Road, Willington at 6 p.m. Info: (860) 617-2339

DANCE SHOWCASE – WILLIMANTIC

EastConn’s Capitol Theater Arts Academy (CTAA) will present its annual Spring Dance Showcase at the Capitol Theater, 896 Main St., Willimantic, featuring 63 young dancers from across northeastern Connecticut at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $10. Tickets for students and seniors are $8. For tickets and information, contact Jessica Folta at (860) 465-5636.

Posted May 19, 2012, links added by Brenda Sullivan, HTNP.com Editor

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

National Bike-to-Work Day is May 18

With the theme, “It’s Easier Than You Think!,” Bike Walk CT is taking the lead to encourage bike commuting on National Bike to Work Day, on Friday May 18, 2012. All events are rain or shine.

Breakfasts for bike commuters will be held in Bethel, Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, New London, Norwalk, Norwich, Stamford, Waterbury, West Hartford, and the UConn Health Center (Farmington). See http://www.bikewalkct.org/bike-to-work for the details.

DEEP Commissioner Esty will ride into the West Hartford and downtown Hartford events, from Cheshire!

We plan to have a friendly competition among the events – the prize is bragging rights for the bike to work event with the highest attendance per capita for the city in which it’s located (so bigger towns won’t have an unfair advantage).

Another “prize” is showing that residents of your town are serious about non-motorized transportation and that it deserves attention and resources. Recruit your family, friends, co-workers, city officials and all the public and private sector employees you can convince that they should give bike commuting a try!

To be sure you have the most up-to-date information on the breakfasts and the meetups on May 18, click this link http://www.bikewalkct.org/bike-to-work/meet-ups

May 1 kicked off the three-month National Bike Challenge. Whether you bike daily or infrequently, for recreation or for transportation, we need you and all of your biking friends to sign up.

Our goal is to end the challenge as a top-10 state; with your help, we can get there.

And you will be eligible for prizes after just three days of riding! Visit the Bike Walk CT web site for details at http://www.bikewalkct.org

Bike Walk CT has a team of 10 and invites others to create their own teams … something like Bike Walk CT – Sound Cyclists… any name that identifies your team as part of the Bike Walk CT organization combined with your own identity.

Simsbury has an event planned for almost every day during Bike Month, including the unveiling of a new bike sculpture on Saturday, May 19.

If you know of other events, please let us know and we will add it to the May is Bike Month calendar, and post it on our web site, Facebook and in our eNewsletter. Send your information to bikewalkct@bikewalkct.org

Posted May 16, 2012

Related link: http://www.slideshare.net/bikewalkct/bike-to-work-on-may-18-events-scheduled-across-connecticut

Editor’s note: We are currently making security improvements to our Web site, and you may sometimes receive a message that the site is temporarily unavailable. We thank you for being patient.

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

Save your appetite for the return of the Third Thursday Street Fest

Have you missed the Third Thursday Street Fest? Well, the new 2012 season begins this week on Thursday, May 17. Admission is free and all are welcome. Forecasts are for sunny skies and comfortable temps.

Downtown Main Street will be closed to traffic from 5 to 9 p.m., and the streets will be taken over by bands and other entertainers, food vendors of all kinds – from burgers to falafel – and tables with representatives of civic groups and other local organizations, as well as a variety of craftspeople and artists.

Good food tastes even better listening to the music by performers on the many stages at the festival, beginning at 6 p.m. until about 8 p.m.

Every year the Street Fest grows – drawing thousands of visitors from the area.

For details about each month’s music, food and other events, visit the web site at http://willimanticstreetfest.com (there you can also find an application to showcase your goods, services or band at a future Street Fest).

Third Thursday is also an opportunity to visit some of the restaurants, businesses, coffee shops and art galleries that make Downtown Willimantic special.

“Way uptown” is the home of Main Street Café and Brew Pub. That’s the one with all the awards, like the 2011 Best Brew in Connecticut, and 2010 6th Best Brew Pub in the World.

Then there is Cafémantic, in the beautifully renovated, colorful “Victorian” building with a large selection of fresh-made gourmet sandwiches and treats, as well as delicious coffees and teas.

Also on Main Street is the newly opened Fred’s Blues and BBQ and the City Side Deli.

Turn onto Church Street and find The Harp on Church, an Irish spot with tasty sandwiches and drink.

Go “way downtown” and you’ll find Tony’s Pizza, or buy their pizza by the slice at the Third Thursday Street Fest.

Also at the festival:

Domino’s Pizza with pizza and breadsticks; First Congregational Church with fried dough with various toppings; Hosmer Mountain Soda with its famous ice cream floats; Windham Bigg Play will have pulled pork and coleslaw; Wings Express selling Indian food like chicken tika masala, matter paneer and samosas; Ternullo Ministries offering French fries and onion rings; Chappy’s II has custom sausage and smoked products; Keiffer’s Kettle Korn also has Italian ice; Iglesia Corozon will have beef empanadas, rice with pigeon peas and roasted pulled pork; Raw Youniverse will make you an organic smoothie; and for your sweet tooth, cotton candy from St. Mary’s Church.

There truly is something for everyone at the Willimantic Third Thursday Street Fest – bring your friends and family.

Editor’s note:Please, if bringing your (friendly) family dog, keep him/her on a leash, plan to clean up after any accidents and bring some water because you, your children and your four-footed friend are likely to get thirsty. And if you have a good time at the festival, why not stop by the main information booth and buy a button to help support future fests. Each festival costs about $16,000 to produce. About $10,000 is covered through in-kind services and volunteer labor, leaving about $6,000 – which includes about $4,500 to pay performers, $1,000 for advertising and about $500 for insurance, Port-a-Potties, postage and other fest expenses.

Posted May 15, 2012, based on a press release from the Willimantic Third Thursday Street Fest organizers

Editor’s note: We are currently making security improvements to our Web site, and you may sometimes receive a message that the site is temporarily unavailable. We thank you for being patient.

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

You are invited – Worldfest 2012 at UConn

The 42nd annual free Worldfest will be held 1 to 4 p.m. in Storrs-Mansfield on Saturday, March 24, 2012. Everyone is invited.

The Office of Global Programs – The International Center, and The International Students Organization are sponsoring this event, which will be held at the University of Connecticut Student Union in the ballroom (third floor)

The hallmark feature of the annual Worldfest has been the exhilarating performances of the various international student groups.

Some of this year’s performers include: the UConn Irish, The Saudi Student Club, Bangladeshi Student Association, Nepali Student Association, Ukraine Dance, UConn Capoeira, Tarang, UConn Taiko, UConn B.A.I.L.E, and the Polish Cultural Society, just to name a few.

Also, be prepared to treat your taste buds with exotic cuisines in “Appetizers from around the World” while you chat with UConn students from around the world.

Have a postcard taken of yourself and friends at the “Postcards from around the World” booth, sponsored by the Student Union Board of Governors (SUBOG).

Please join us to celebrate UConn’s rich cultural diversity and show your support for our growing international community.

This is an educational experience for all ages. Admission is free of charge. (A fee will be charged for food and beverages.)

Questions? Please call 869-486-3855.

Posted March 6, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. To keep up-to-date on local news, “like” us (HTNP News) on Facebook and follow us ( @HTNP) on Twitter!

Coming up, Easter Egg Hunt at Horse Listeners Orchard

The Horse Listener’s Orchard in Ashford, CT invites you to an Easter Egg Hunt from 10 a.m. to noon (or until the eggs are gone) on Saturday, March 31.

The inclement weather date is Saturday, April 7, same hours. Call the orchard, if in doubt (860-429-5336).

Bring the whole family for a fun morning out. There will be Easter cookie decorating, outdoor games and more.

Pack a snack for the little ones or a picnic lunch for the whole family.

Please pre-register by e-mail with the number of children you will be bringing and their ages, so we can plan, at Horselistenersorchard@gmail.com

The egg hunt is intended for children age 8 and younger to keep the little ones safe. Younger children (age 4 and younger) will have a separate egg hunt area.

Horse Listeners Orchard is located at 317 Bebbington Road in Ashford, CT 06278. It’s only 1.5 miles from the junctions of Routes 44 and 89 in Ashford. Follow the signs at this intersection and turn onto Slade Road, which ends at Bebbington Road.

Posted March 6, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. To keep up-to-date on local news, “like” us (HTNP News) on Facebook and follow us ( @HTNP) on Twitter!

Community, students invited to co-create interactive mural

As part of the an exhibit presented by The Akus Gallery at Eastern Connecticut State University, students, staff, faculty and members of the community are invited to join guest artist Vito Bonanno in creating an interactive mural.

This project coincides with an exhibit of his work, “Unfiltered V: Vito Bonanno Riding with the Train Girls” on view from Jan. 19 through Mar. 1, 2012 at The Akus Gallery.

The mural project takes place from noon to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2 in the gallery, which is located in the lower floor of Shafer Hall.

A reception with the artist will be held the same day, from 5- 7 p.m. in the gallery.

Bonanno’s work is image- and concept-driven and may incorporate spray paints, gouache, India inks, oils, acrylics and other media, on paper, canvas and other materials.

Most of his characters or topics are embedded in his personal life, feelings, thoughts and dreams, centered around objects or topics that “get stuck in his head,” including traffic lights, grids, ceiling fans and graffiti.

“He has found a way to tap into the intensity of focus and insight afforded him through Autism Spectrum Disorder to unleash a formidable creative power and vision,” explains Akus Gallery Director Elizabeth Peterson.

His work has been described as raw, unfiltered, unedited, truthful, comedic, irresistible, bold, playful and charming. (Watch video at http://www.vitobonanno.com/#311100/video )

“Unfiltered V: Vito Bonanno Riding with the Train Girls” offers an unabashed glimpse into the inner workings of the artist’s complex and creative mind.

Shrine-like installations and an unconventional, quirky accompaniment of objects bring both alarming and charmingly comedic elements to the table.

The Interactive Mural project of “Unfiltered V” is a Dean’s Cup Event at Eastern. The Dean’s Cup competition is an academic and service-related event that promotes spirit and collaboration among students living in the residence halls on campus.

The competition’s purpose is to see which residence hall can get the most students to attend special events on campus, while simultaneously encouraging students to become well-seasoned in a variety of experiences, conducive to Eastern’s liberal arts mission.

The Akus Gallery is located in the lower level of Shafer Hall at the corner of Windham and Valley Streets in Willimantic, CT.

Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 1 to 7 p.m. on Thursday and 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

The public is invited. Admission is free.

For more information regarding this and other exhibitions at Akus Gallery, please call (860) 465-4659 or visit on the web at www.easternct.edu/akusgallery

Posted Jan. 27, 2012 as edited by HTNP.com Editor Brenda Sullivan

Related links: Vito Bonanno’s web site http://www.vitobonanno.com/#1885253/about-the-artist

What is Austism? http://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism

VSA, http://www.kennedy-center.org/education/vsa/programs/exhibitions.cfm

VSA, the international organization on arts and disability, was founded more than 35 years ago by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to provide arts and education opportunities for people with disabilities and increase access to the arts for all.

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. To keep up-to-date on local news, “like” us (HTNP News) on Facebook and follow us ( @HTNP) on Twitter!

Local community events for the week of Jan 23 2012

Editor’s note: The DEEP Family Ice Fishing Class scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 28 in Coventry has been canceled, as well as the Derby (because of insufficient ice on the lakeTuesday Jan. 24, 2012

FOOT-CARE APPOINTMENTS – Mansfield

Mansfield Senior Center, 303 Maple Road, Storrs, will offer foot­care appointments with a podiatrist beginning at 9 a.m. Call Kathy for an appointment at (860) 429-0262.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION – Willimantic

The Willimantic Public Library, Main Street, Willimantic, will host a Chinese New Year celebration from 6 to 7 p.m. in the children’s department. Families are invited to attend a fun-filled hour that will include traditional Chinese stories, arts and crafts, games and sample Chinese food. To register, stop by the library or call (860) 465-3082.

LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING – Lebanon

All local mothers and pregnant women are invited to a mother­to-mother breastfeeding support and advocacy group at 6:30 p.m. at the Lebanon Community Center, 872 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon. Children welcome. Info. (860) 642-6638 or (860) 423-2170. No cost.

Wednesday Jan. 25

ADULT HEALTH SCREENINGS – Mansfield

Mansfield Senior Center, 303 Maple Road, Storrs, will offer adult health screenings from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. with VNA East Nurse Mary Hess. Info: (860) 429-0262, ext. 4.

INTERFAITH SEWING AND SERVICE GROUP – Willimantic

First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St., Willimantic, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Projects: CWS – school bags and layettes, Nursing Homes – lap robes. Snow date: Jan. 26. Info: (860) 228-9658.

HOSPICE HOSPITALITY LUNCHEON – Chaplin

Hospice of Eastern Connecticut will hold its hospitality luncheon at the Pine Acres Restaurant, Route 6, Chaplin from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a social gathering of people who are successfully moving on with their lives after a loss. Group is open to the community. Info: (860) 456-7288, ext. 293.

Thursday Jan. 26

LIBRARY FUNDRAISER – Willington

The Willington Public Library, 7 Ruby Road, Willington, will host “Demarle at Home” library fundraiser at 6 p.m. Info: (860) 429-3854.

ROSS MILLER ON PHILIP ROTH, UPDATED – UConn

Ross Miller, who is writing the official biography of Philip Roth (with Roth’s cooperation), will update those who are interested on the progress of this project to be published by Houghton Harcourt. Roth’s talk at the University of Connecticut Co-op, 2975 Hillside Road, Storrs, is at 6 p.m. For more information, visit http://generalbooks.bookstore.uconn.edu/event/ross-miller-philip-roth-updated-0 or call (860) 486-5027.

NIGHTSONGS OPEN MIKE/SONGSHARE – Coventry

The Nightsongs Open Mike/Songshare will be held at the Song-­a-Day Music Center, 2809 Boston Turnpike (Route 44) in Coventry. Music begins at 7 p.m.; sign-up is at 6:30 p.m. Songwriters, music and spoken-word performers and the musically curious are invited to share music and discussion. This event is free and open to the public. Come and share songs, swap stories and enjoy the company of musicians. For more information, call (860) 742-6878 or e-mail inquiries@songaday­music.com

Friday Jan. 27

LEGENDARY PIANIST/COMPOSER AT JORGENSEN – UConn

Chucho Valdés, pianist and composer will perform at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts, 2132 Hillside Road, Storrs, on the University of Connecticut campus at 8 p.m. Tickets/info: (860) 486-4226 or online at jorgensen.uconn.edu

Saturday Jan. 28

ICE FISHING CLASS AND DERBY – Coventry

Members of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s Connecticut Aquatic Resources Education (CARE) program will conduct a Family Ice Fishing Derby at Patriot’s Park on Coventry Lake in Coventry from noon to 3 p.m. (weather permitting). A Family Ice Fishing Class is planned prior to the derby at the Patriot’s Park Community Center. The class will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (with or without ice) and registration is required. The derby is free of charge and will be conducted by certified DEEP Fisheries CARE instructors. The DEEP Derby is sponsored by the Coventry Parks and Recreation Department. For registration and more information, call (860) 742-4068.

MOVIE – ‘DOLPHIN’S TALE’ – Willington

The Willington Public Library, 7 Ruby Road, Willington, will host the movie “Dolphin’s Tale” in the Community Room at 12:30 p.m. This movie is rated PG and runs for 113 minutes. Participants can also bring their own snacks.

MUSIC WORKSHOPS – Coventry

The Song-a-Day Music Center, 2809 Boston Turnpike, Route 44, Coventry, will present two music workshops, “Mountain Dulcimer Potpourri” and “The Songs of the Carter Family” from 2 to 4 p.m. Space for the workshops is limited. Call for reservations. Fee for each work­shop is $30. Info: (860) 742-6878 or go to www.songadaymusic.com

ARMY BAND CONCERT – Chaplin

The 102nd Army Band will perform a free concert at Parish Hill High School, Parish Hill Road, Chaplin, at 7 p.m. The band consists of several ensembles including a concert band, big band and a jazz combo. Info: (860) 455-9584.

LEGENDARY PIANIST/COMPOSER AT JORGENSEN – UConn

Chucho Valdés, pianist and composer will perform at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts, 2132 Hillside Road, Storrs, on the University of Connecticut campus at 8 p.m. Tickets/info: (860) 486-4226 or online at jorgensen.uconn.edu

Sunday Jan. 29

WINTER TREK AT ALLANACH-WOLF WOODLANDS – Windham

Join naturalist Ken Metzler for a tour of the winter world at 1 p.m. Walkers will snowshoe if there is snow. EMS will provide snowshoes at half the regular rental price ($10) as available. Instruction will be pro­vided at 12:30 p.m. Space is limited, registration is required. Contact Richard Bunce at (860) 647-1455 by Jan. 22. Find information about Joshua’s Trust at www.joshuaslandtrust.org

LOOKING AHEAD…

Monday Jan. 30

WILLIMANTIC WHITEWATER PARTNERSHIP DRIVE

The annual meeting, fundraiser and membership drive of the Willimantic Whitewater Partnership will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at Willimantic Brewing Co./Main St. Café, 967 Main St., Willimantic.

VOICEMAIL, THE OPEN MIKE FOR STORYTELLING – Storrs/Mansfield

VoiceMail, the open mike for storytelling, will be held at The Mansfield General Store, Route 195/Storrs Road, Mansfield Center, at 7 p.m. Come for the soup and chili bar and stories. Proceeds of free will donation benefit the Connecticut Storytelling Center. For more information, visit www.connstorycenter.org And visit Mansfield General Store on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MansfieldGeneralStore

Tuesday Jan. 31

SOCIAL SECURITY SEMINAR – Willington

Willington Public Library, 7 Ruby Road, Willington, will host a free Social Security seminar in the Community Room at 7 p.m. Come and get all the latest information and answers to all those important questions. Info: (860) 429-3854.

Wednesday Feb. 1

INTERFAITH SEWING AND SERVICE GROUP – Willimantic

First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St., Willimantic, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Projects: Hospital – red flag blankets, CWS – schools bags, hospice – quilted prayer shawl. Snow date: Feb. 2. Info: (860) 228-9658.

Friday Feb. 3

‘THE CITY DARK’ – E.O. SMITH – Storrs/Mansfield

E. O. Smith High School’s auditorium, Storrs Road, Storrs, is the location of a film screening of “The City Dark” at 7 p.m. Free. Info: (860) 208-7273.

Posted Jan. 23, 2012

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