Coventry's Hale Homestead to host music muster

file photo

The Nathan Hale Homestead will host the 24th annual Musical Muster on Sun­day.

The free event runs from 10 a. m. to 5 p. m. at the homestead on 2299 South St., Coventry and runs concur­rently with the Coventry Farmers Market.

Performers include the Nathan Hale Ancient Fife and Drum Corps, the Nutmeg Volunteer Junior Fife & Drum Corps, Deep River Drum Corps and the Windsor Fife and Drum Corps.

The muster will begin at 10 a m. with the National Anthem and the raising of the flag.

A parade will begin at noon and the muster will take place from 1 to 5 p. m. Admission is free.

The Nathan Hale Ancient Fife & Drums was organized in 1965.

For more information about the event, contact Connecticut Land­marks marketing and development associate Jamie- Lynn Fontaine at ( 860) 247-8996, ext. 23.

Posted 7-21-2011

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Free live music, great food – it's the 3rd Thursday Street Fest

The 3rd Thursday Street Fest includes live music on stages the length of Main Street playing everything from classic rock to Mariachi music . It's all free, on the third Thursday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m. on Main Street in Willimantic. Photo copyright 2010 by Brenda Sullivan

It’s the height of summer and the kids are bored, what to do? Bring them to the 3rd Thursday Street Fest. There’s plenty to keep their minds active and their hands busy.

It all happens July 21st on Main Street in Romantic Willimantic from 6 to 9 p.m., where the fun is free and the parking (on side streets and municipal lots) is abundant.

Check out “People, Puppets, Pageantry and Parade” The name says it all. Local talents Johnnie Walker, Kristin Fortier and Sarah Winter create fun out of whole cloth and keep the kids’ interest alive. They will help make a giant caterpillar complete with faces. And they’ll get to show it all off on the street.

By the way, while the festival is free, purchasing a 3rd Thursday button helps support these activities.

Of course, there will be some great music at the Street Fest, such as Dan Stevens performing traditional blues and Cally McGrane and the Exiles doing Irish and Scottish tunes.

For dance music, listen to Larry Willy Band, a local R&B group or Kultura Borikua doing Puerto Rican cultural music. PANA! does Latin/pop rock.

Head Way Uptown for 9th Wave’s surf music, perfect for a hot summer night, followed by the cool sounds of Electric Trains.

Or, Way Downtown by the First Baptist Church you’ll enjoy Unleashed, Sound Judgement, Ra Ra’s homemade ice cream and Taste of the Islands foods. Oh yeah, and a dunking booth with Mayor Ernie and Jean de Smet (at 7:30 p.m.) to help raise funds to repair the church roof and steeple.

What else?

The Capital Theater Arts summer classic will have a summer circus sideshow and don’t forget I-98′s Windham Idol on North Street. DJ Glidden and WHS bands will be on Bank Street.

What’s to eat? 3rd Local vendors offer such goodies as wood-fire pizzas, Mc Henry’s footlong hotdogs, fried dough, pulled pork sandwiches, Indian and Spanish food and, new this year, apple cider donuts, clam and turkey corn chowder, fried seafood along with ice cream, beer and wine and our local Hosmer Mountain soda and floats.

There are more local vendors than ever selling arts and crafts, gadgets and more.

And local agencies greet you from their tables where they offer information about what they do.

Don’t forget to support the businesses along Main Street offering more food choices and goods. Wear your street fest button and get special discounts at participating merchants and in the beer and wine garden.

For more information, check the website www.willimanticstreetfest.com

Posted July 21, 2011

Have a news item or event 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) on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Coventry Lake and other swimming holes get ready for a heat wave

Friends Meaghan Dwyer, 9, and Autumn Skowrenski, 8, take a flying leap into the cool water of Columbia Lake on Monday afternoon. They are both from Columbia. Photo by Marie Brennan

With a heat wave in the forecast, the gatekeeper at Lisicke Beach on Coventry Lake, Joyce Bonney, is bracing for the inevitable – people trying to skirt town regulations regarding beach usage.

“You should hear the sob stories I hear,” Bonney said of people trying to access the beach without the required permit.

Some like it hot, and those who do will probably be happy this week with anticipated highs in the 90s.

Those who don’t, however, will be looking to keep cool and in Coventry there are two popular options, but only one that’s open to the general public.

Lisicke Beach is only open to residents and a seasonal beach permit is required.

Patriots Park Beach, on the other hand, is open to the general public.

Admission is $10 a day and $17 on weekends for vehicles holding up to five people. Each additional person is $3.

A heat wave is officially defined as three days in a row with tem­peratures of 90 degrees or above.

That’s exactly what Connecticut Weather Center meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says is in store for the area later this week.

For those who don’t like the heat, the news gets worse.

Not only is Thursday expected to hit a high in the 90s but it’s also supposed to be humid.

“We are just lucky it’s not long­term like it is in the Midwest,” Jacquemin said.

Along with the hottest weather, expected to hit the area Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Jacquemin said to expect scattered thun­derstorms and periodic bouts of humidity – right through the weekend.

On Monday, Coventry residents were already working on keeping cool at Lisicke Beach where it is up to Bonney to make sure every­one looking to use the beach is allowed to be there.

Perched under a borrowed life­guard’s umbrella at the beach’s entrance, Bonney’s job is to check vehicles for resident stickers. No yellow sticker? No beach entry.

For those who do possess a permit – obtainable at the town offices and at Patriots Park Beach – Lisicke Beach is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily and, if Monday was any indication, all the parking spaces will likely fill up fast later this week.

In three hours time on Monday, Bonney recorded 55 cars carry­ing 168 people looking to beat the heat.

“It’s amazing,” Bonney said.

Mothers chatted or read under umbrellas while children played in the sand or dipped in the lake.

While some pulled out fast in the early afternoon when it started to sprinkle, others barely seemed to notice the raindrops, which only lasted a few minutes.

Bonney said it’s nice to see people enjoying the lake, but she says the rules are the rules.

Not only is she one of the peo­ple who can control who can and cannot get into the park, Bonney is also responsible for making sure the vehicles line up properly in the designated parking spaces to allow maximum accessibility.

For those who don’t follow the rules, say, by sneaking in before the park opens, Bonney has the authority to write tickets.

Coventry residents can obtain the coveted yellow parking per­mit for an annual fee of $10 per vehicle.

Bonney said the park’s regula­tions don’t stop people from try­ing when the weather heats up and she is always puzzled when out-­of-town residents come looking to swim, especially from towns with swimming areas of their own.

In Columbia, for example, sea­son passes and daily pass options are available for nominal fees.

Non-residents can also purchase season passes for $150, $250 and $100 for children, adults and sen­iors, respectively.

In Willington, both residents and non-residents can purchase daily or seasonal passes for entry to Hall’s Pond.

And, in Willimantic, the Lauter Park’s Splash Pad at 625 Jackson St. is a cool, fun and free way for kids to beat the summer heat.

While most adhere to beach and park usage rules, there’s apparent­ly no lack of determination when it comes to cooling off – permit or no permit.

“They still try and get in,” Bon­ney said.

For information on keeping cool in your town, check out your town’s park and recreation web site.

Posted 7-19-2011

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Spaghetti supper, ice cream social, flea market and more this weekend

Saturday,  July 16

NRA BASIC PISTOL SAFETY CLASS
A one-day NRA pistol safety class will be held at the First Congregational Church of Coventry’s social hall, 1171 Main St., Coventry, at 8:30 a.m. $100 donation requested to help the church’s “Raise the Roof Campaign.” Info: David Cayer (860) 202-2821.

HEBRON FARMERS MARKET
The Hebron Farmers Market, located on the grounds of the Church of Hope and the Red Barn at the intersection of routes 66 and 85, Hebron, is held every Saturday through Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

LEBANON FARMERS MARKET
The Lebanon Farmers Market located on the town green, 579 Exeter Road, Lebanon, is held every Saturday through Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to noon.

JOSHUA METELL 3-ON-3 CLASSIC
The Joshua Metell 3-on-3 Classic will once again be held in Willimantic at Rec Park. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. and games start at 10:30 a.m. Team entry fee $15 and 3-on-3 players must be 14 years of age or older. Info: Peter at (860) 911-1961 or Matt and Ingrid Metell at (860) 423-8118 or e-mail jm3on3@yahoo.com. Check out the 3-on-3 FaceBook page for updates. Rain date July 23.

PREPARED CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES
Windham Community Memorial Hospital offers an all-day “mara­thon” childbirth education class from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the hospital’s education center. Cost is $65 for families delivering their babies at WCMH and $75 for families delivering elsewhere. Participants can also register for a baby basics class (fee: $10 if combined with prepared childbirth class). Information/registration: (860) 456-6894.

SCOTLAND HUNTINGTON HOMESTEAD OPEN HOUSE
Tour guides lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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, donations welcome. Info: (860) 423-1547.

KNITTING WORKSHOP AT LEBANON MUSEUM
Instructors from Country Yarns in Wallingford will teach three con­current levels of knitting classes at a knitting workshop from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House, 780 Trumbull Highway (Route 87), Lebanon. Ages 8 and up are welcome. Beginner level is $11 and includes supplies. Basic and intermediate levels will make different neck accents. Purchase yarns at the workshop but bring a variety of needles. Pre-regis­tration required by Friday, July 15. Call Alicia Wayland, (860) 642-7987, for complete details and to register. Admission is free.

PUPPET SHOW – UCONN
Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry, University of Connecticut Depot Campus, will host a puppet show at 3:30 p.m. Nicole Hartigan’s “God Paints a Saint” will be performed. This is a toy theater evocation of 16th-century Mexico, telling the history of the first appearance of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Mexico’s patron saint. Admission is $3 for children, $5 for adults.

SPAGHETTI DINNER AND RAFFLE
The Women’s Softball Association of Greater Willimantic will hold its annual spaghetti dinner and raffle at the VFW Hall, Main Street, Willimantic, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Adults are $6, seniors and children 5 and older are $5, children 4 and under free. Tickets available at the door.

VARIETY SHOW AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL
The First Baptist Church of Lebanon, 463 Exeter Road, Lebanon, invites residents to the annual variety show and ice cream social at 7 p.m. Visitors won’t want to miss the music, skits, jokes, stories and poetry as organizers take a variety show trip based on the theme a “Trip Around the USA.” It will feature songs from the 50 states.

Sunday, July 17

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET

The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park, off Route 44 across from Ashford Town Hall. The market will run every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October. Info: Loretta at birdeye123@earthlink.net.

FLEA MARKET AND BAKE SALE

The Ashford Senior Center, Route 14, across from the town hall, will sponsor a flea market and bake sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in con­junction with the Ashford Farmers Market. Tables available. Cost is $10. Info: call Judy at (860) 487-5122 or Pat at (860) 974-1147.

COVENTRY FARMERS MARKET

The Coventry Farmers Market is held at the Nathan Hale Homestead at 2299 South St. The market will run every Sunday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. Info: www.coven­tryfarmersmarket.com.

CHICKEN BBQ
Moriah Lodge # 15, 220 Providence Rd., Brooklyn will host a Chicken BBQ from Noon to 2 p.m. Dine-in or take out.

Posted 7-15-2011

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Need something to do this weekend? Have breakfast, see a play, shop and more

Saturday July 9

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST
St. Augustine’s Church, 144 Westminster Road, Route 14, Canterbury, will host an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Cost: $6.

TAG SALE – COVENTRY
The Coventry Republican Town Committee is hosting a tag sale at Ackert Electric, 1265 Main St., Coventry, from 8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine). To donate any good condition items that are no longer wanted or needed, contact Teddie Ackert at either (860) 742-5287 or Tsackert@aol.com.

WILLINGTON SENIORS HOST ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST
The Willington Seniors will host a pancake breakfast at the Senior Center – 60 Old Farms Road on Saturday, July 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. All you can eat!! $5.00 per person. Call 860-429-8321 for details

MAGIC AT THE LIBRARY
Guilford Smith Memorial Library, Main Street, South Windham, will host magician Pete Haddad at 11 a.m. Info: (860) 423-5159 or visit www.guilfordsmith.org.

LEBANON MEMORABILIA DAY
Lebanon Historical Society Museum, 856 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, will host Memorabilia Day from noon to 3 p.m. Rain or shine. Come and share what you have found, inherited or collected about Lebanon or just come to exchange information or ask questions about all things Lebanon. Call to reserve your display space. Some exhibitors may have Lebanon memorabilia for sale. Info: (860) 642- 6579 or e-mail museum@historyoflebanon.org

FAMILY MOVIE EVENT – SCOTLAND
The Scotland Public Library, 21 Brook Road, Scotland will host a family movie event at noon. Library will show a PG-rated movie and provide popcorn and beverages. Info: (860) 423-1492

KIDS CLUB EVENT: CIVIL WAR LIFE
The Windham Textile & History Museum will host its July Kids Club Activity, “Life During the Civil War,” from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Learn about life in Connecticut during the 1860s at the time of the American Civil War. Kids Club Members are free. General admission: $5 for children, $2 for adults. All supplies and refreshments included. Call to register at (860) 456-2178.

PUPPET SHOW – UCONN
The Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry, University of Connecticut campus, will host a puppet show at 3:30 p.m. Ki Hong Kim will present “The Adventures of Doggy Poo.” Show is a tabletop puppet version of a popular Korean children’s story about a lonely piece of poop who finds meaning and acceptance fertilizing a dandelion. Admission: $3 for children, $5 for adults.

SPAGHETTI DINNER
VFW Post No. 1724, 1415 Main St., Willimantic, will host a spa­ghetti dinner from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Adults are $7, seniors $6 and children under 12, $4. For information or tickets, call (860) 423-8507. All pro­ceeds donated to “Roof Fund.”

ST. PETER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH CHICKEN BARBECUE
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 30 Church St. (Route 85), Hebron, will be holding its monthly dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. (or until sold-out). Cost is $12 for adults, $6 for children ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. Info: (860) 228-3244.

‘MY FAIR LADY’ – STORRS
The Connecticut Repertory Theatre concludes its 2011 Nutmeg Summer Series with “My Fair Lady,” running July 7-17 in the Harriett S. Jorgensen Theatre (lower Jorgensen Auditorium) on the University of Connecticut Storrs campus. Evening performances are Tuesday to Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 8 p.m. and matinees Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets $10-$39. For information or tickets, call (860) 486-4226 or visit www.crt.uconn.edu.

Sunday July 10

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET
The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park, off Route 44 across from Ashford Town Hall. The market will run every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October. Info: Loretta at bird­eye123@earthlink.net.

PET ADOPTION EVENT AT ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET
“Our Companions” is planning its second annual Ashford Farmers Market pet adoption event. The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Applications will be collected, but no adoptions will happen on the day of the event. Info: Stephanie at (860) 242-9999, ext. 303 or Stephanie@ourcompanions.org.

COVENTRY FARMERS MARKET
The Coventry Farmers Market is held at the Nathan Hale Homestead at 2299 South St. The market will run every Sunday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. Info: www.coventryfarmersmarket.com.

RASTOMJI TO PRESENT PIANO RECITAL
Khurshed Rastomji, adjunct professor of music at Eastern Connecticut State University and the Pomfret School, will present a piano recital at East Hampton Public Library, 20 E. High St., at 2:30 p.m. His perfor­mance will include music by Mozart, Chopin, Debussy and Liszt.

LACTATION/BREASTFEEDING CLASS OR CONSULTATION
Windham Community Memorial Hospital offers a breastfeeding class at 4 p.m. Cost is $10. Info: Pamela Yerkes, certified lactation con­sultant, at (860) 456-6973.

COLONIAL ADVENTURE FOR KIDS DAY CAMP
Children will be able to travel back to the 18th century at Connecticut Landmarks’ Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry with the “Colonial Adventure for Kids” day camp. Registration is being sought now for the camp, which is Monday July 18 through Friday July 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children ages 8 to 12 have the opportunity enjoy a week of sum­mer fun and explore the way the colonists did in the 18th century. Cost is $150 for the week, $135 for members. Registration required as space is limited. To register, contact the Nathan Hale Homestead at (860) 742-6917 or e-mail hale@ctlandmarks.org.

ARTS & CRAFTS VENDORS WANTED
Network Inc. is seeking arts and crafts vendors for a fall fair, “Connecticut’s Own,” to take place on Saturday, Sept. 24, on the grounds of Network’s main office on Route 6 in Andover from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A 10-foot-by-10-foot space is $25. Info: Kathleen McLean at (860) 753-2923 or e-mail kmclean@network-programs.com.

Posted 7-8-2011

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This weekend – Farmers Markets, Parades and more

Saturday July 2

HEBRON FARMERS MARKET
The Hebron Farmers’ Market located on the grounds of Church of Hope and the Red Barn, at the intersection of Routes 66 and 85, Hebron, is held every Saturday through Oct. 8, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

DRAGONS AT THE GOODWIN CENTER
The Goodwin Forest Conservation Education Center and the Goodwin State Forest will host an exploration to learn more about the fascinating world of dragonflies from 10 a.m. to noon. The center is located off of Route 6 at 23 Potter Road, Hampton. Pre-registration is requested but not required. For more information or to register: (860) 455-9534 or juan.sanchezjr@ct.gov.

SCOTLAND HUNTINGTON HOMESTEAD OPEN HOUSE
Tour guides lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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, donations welcome. Info: (860) 423-1547.

PUPPET SHOW – UCONN
Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry, University of Connecticut’s Depot campus, will host a puppet show at 3:30 p.m. Thomas Getchell, excerpts from “The Proleptic Voice: A Visual Poem.” A marionette tour-de-force of vignettes revealing themes of faith, hope and charity in the poetry of one of America’s greatest poets, Emily Dickinson, inspired by her metaphor of life as a circus. Admission $3 for children, $5 for adults.

COLONIAL ADVENTURE FOR KIDS DAY CAMP
Children will be able to travel back to the 18th century at Connecticut Landmarks’ Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry with the “Colonial Adventure for Kids” day camp. Registration sought now for the camp, which is Monday July 18 through Friday July 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children ages 8 to 12 have the opportunity to enjoy a week of summer fun and explore the way colonists did things in the 18th century. Cost is $150 for the week, $135 for members. Registration required as space is limited. To register, contact the Nathan Hale Homestead at (860) 742-6917 or e-mail hale@ctlandmarks.org.

Sunday July 3

CANTERBURY VFW BREAKFAST
Canterbury VFW, Route 169, North Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host a breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Cost is $5.50 with children 5­years-old and under free.

AHM GOLF OPEN
Registration is being accepted for AHM Youth and Family Services’ golf tournament at Blackledge Country Club on Monday, July 11, beginning at 9 a.m. The tournament is scheduled for a “shotgun” start at 9: 30 a.m. An afternoon picnic will be hosted by the Armata Family from Ted’s Supermarket. Cost is $125 for individuals, with an added incentive of a $100 discount for all pre-registered foursomes ($ 400). Registration forms and sponsorship forms can be sent via e- mail from the AHM offices. Questions about playing or serving as a sponsor for the tourna­ment should be directed to the AHM off ices (860) 228- 9488.

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET
The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park, off Route 44 across from the Town Hall. The market will run every Sunday 10 a. m. to 1 p. m. through October. Info: Loretta at birdeye123@earth­link.net.

COVENTRY FARMERS MARKET
The Coventry Farmers Market is held at the Nathan Hale Homestead at 2299 South St. The market will run every Sunday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. Info: www.coventryfarmersmarket.com.

ARTS AND CRAFTS VENDORS WANTED
Network Inc. is seeking arts and crafts vendors for a fall fair, “Connecticut’s Own,” to take place on Saturday, Sept. 24, on the grounds of Network’s main office on Route 6 in Andover from 9 a.m. to 4 p. m. 10-foot-by-10-foot space costs $25. Info: Kathleen McLean (860) 753- 2923 or e- mail kmclean@network-programs.com.

Monday July 4

CANTERBURY FOURTH OF JULY PARADE
Canterbury’s Fourth of July Parade will be held at 10 a.m. Any orga­nization, family or individual who is interested in participating should come to the Baldwin School (Route 14) parking lot at 9 a.m. The parade steps off promptly at 10 a.m. The route of the parade is Baldwin School west to the town hall complex. Following the parade, there will be a flag-raising ceremony.

COLUMBIA LIONS CLUB INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE
The Columbia Lions Club will host the 49th annual Independence Day Parade starting at 10 a. m. from Horace Porter School to Lake Road and Route 87.

WILLIMANTIC BOOM BOX PARADE
Willimantic’s Annual July 4 Boom Box Parade, sponsored by WILI, starts at 11 a.m. with lineup starting at 9 a.m. in the Jillson Square park­ing lot. Participants and spectators should wear red, white and blue and bring a radio to the parade tuned to 1400/WILI AM. The radios provide the music. Anyone can march in the parade, create a float or just watch this memorable event.

Posted 7-1-2011

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This weekend – CoventryFest, Celebrate America, Blues Fest and more

Saturday, June 25

ANNUAL TAG SALE – ST. COLUMBA CHURCH
St. Columba Church, junction of routes 66 and 87, Columbia, will be holding its annual tag sale from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: (860) 228- 2050. Donations accepted.

THRIFT SHOP AND KID’S BOUTIQUE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique is open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church on 199 Valley St., Willimantic. New items every week. Spring items have ar rived. The shops will be closed Saturday, July 2, for the holiday weekend. Info: ( 860) 423- 6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

ANNUAL SUMMER BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Mansfield Library will hold their summer book sale at the Mansfield Library located on Route 89 in Mansfield Center. The doors open at 9 a.m. Proceeds benefit the Mansfield Library. For the convenience of the public, a shuttle bus will operate from the Southeast Elementary School (Route 89) parking lot on Saturday, only. Anyone wishing to submit donations of books is encouraged to do so throughout the year. Books may be dropped off in the delivery service entrance at the front of the Mansfield Library, 54 Warrenville Road, Mansfield Center.

TAG SALE – ASHFORD
The Lake Chaffee Improvement Association will be holding a tag sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chaffee Hall, 15 Old Town Road, Ashford. Multiple families will be involved.

SCOTLAND SENIORS BAKE & TAG SALE
The Scotland Seniors will be conducting a bake and tag sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Scotland Green, Route 14, Scotland from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Space available and costs $10 each. Proceeds to benefit Scotland Community Hall. Rain date June 26. Info: Alice Bury (860) 546- 9572.

HARDY PLANT SOCIETY SUMMER PICNIC AND PROGRAM
The Hardy Plant Society will host a 1 p. m. picnic/program featur­ing Joann Vieira, curator, Tower Hill Botanic Garden. Program called “Wildflowers and Companions.” Lunch is noon. Rain date Sunday, June 26. All welcome. Bring a dish to share and a chair. Location: Quack in Grass Nursery, 16 Laurel Hill Road, Brooklyn, from 10 a. m. to 5 p. m.

VICTORIAN BAZAAR
Willimantic Camp Meeting Association, 1 mile south of Frog Bridge on Route 32, will host a Victorian bazaar from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Food, crafts, plants, white elephant and more. Proceeds go to maintain histori­cal buildings, Vacation Bible school, port-a-potties at playground/pond area. Info: (860) 942-8499.

DRAGONFLIES AT THE GOODWIN CENTER
The Goodwin Forest Conservation Education Center and the Goodwin State Forest will host an exploration to learn more about the fascinating world of Dragonflies, from 10 a.m. to noon. The center is located off of Route 6 at 23 Potter Road, Hampton. Pre-registration is requested but not required. For more information or to register: (860) 455- 9534 or juan.sanchezjr@ct.gov.

SPRING CARNIVAL – COLUMBIA
Columbia Rec Park, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., moon bounce, kickball, Wiffle ball, volleyball and carnival games for all ages. Sponsored by Columbia Leo Club, proceeds to support Columbia charities.

COVENTRYFEST
Come join the fun at this year’s annual CoventryFest, held on Coventry Lake at Patriot’s Park. The rain date is Sunday, June 26. The family-oriented event begins at 3 p.m. with a f ireworks display over Coventry Lake after sundown. Free admission, however, donations are accepted to help defer the cost of the event and to help support future CoventryFest activities.

PUPPET SHOW – UCONN
Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry, UConn’s Depot campus, will host a puppet show at 4 p.m. Event to feature Travis Lope and Leah Sylvain, The Enchanted Vanity Set. Show to feature an expertly crafted toy theater full of magical transformations. Show will also feature Travis Lope, Foolish Fortunes. A gypsy for tune-teller reveals the future to lucky members of the audience. Admission $3 for children, $5 for adults.

CELEBRATE AMERICA – HEBRON
The Hebron Lions Club will “Celebrate America” with fireworks at the Hebron Fair grounds. Gate opens at 5 p.m., $ 10 per car (rain date Sunday June 26). Fireworks, live band, food and games will be featured.

SHABOO BLUES FESTIVAL/ WINDHAM HOSPITAL BENEFIT
The Auxiliary to Windham Hospital presents ” The Shaboo Blues Festival” on Sat., June 25, 2011 at Jillson Square in Willimantic. Music 5 to 11 p.m. The concert is a benefit for a new out-patient and oncology suite at Windham Hospital. Sponsored in part by the Lester E. & Phyllis M. Foster Foundation, the event fea­tures Elvin Bishop, James Cotton, and the David Foster & the Shaboo All-Stars and celebrates the 40th anniversary of the opening of the legendary Shaboo Inn.

SUMMER DANCE – COLUMBIA
The Town of Columbia is hosting a summer dance at Columbia Town Hall, Route 87, Columbia, from 8 to 11 p.m. Featuring Columbia Five Star Band. Cost is $11/per­son. Benefits Columbia Recreation Department Info: www.columbiact.org or call (860) 228-8513.

Sunday, June 26

BUFFET BREAKFAST – WINDHAM
Knights of Columbus Council 14, 41 Club Road, Windham, is hosting a buffet breakfast from 7:30 to 11 a.m. Children under 5 free, 6-12, $5.50, seniors $6 and adults $6.50. Take-outs available.

SPORTING CLAYS FUN SHOOT
The Connecticut Waterfowlers Association will host a clay pigeon fun shoot at the Fin, Fur & Feather Club, Chaplin, rain or shine. Open to all. Event starts at 8:30 a.m. with registration, 9:30 a.m. with a shot­gun start. Fees are $75 adults/$45 ages 17 and younger. Info: John Pawelec at (860) 429-7033 or www.ctwaterfowlers.org.

ANNUAL SUMMER BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Mansfield Library will host its summer book sale at the Mansfield Library, located on Route 89 in Mansfield Center. The doors open at 9 a.m. Proceeds benefit the Mansfield Library. Anyone wishing to submit donations of books are encouraged to do so throughout the year. Books may be dropped off in the delivery service entrance at the front of the Mansfield Library, 54 Warrenville Road, Mansfield Center.

CHURCH OF THE HOLY FAMILY MOTORCYCLE POKER RUN
The Church of the Holy Family in Hebron will sponsor its 11th annual Padre’s Run to benefit The Wounded Warrior Project, an orga­nization that provides programs and services to severely injured service members during the time between active duty and transition to civil­ian life. Registration: 9 to 11 a.m. in the church hall. There will be a memorial mass at 9:30 a.m., followed by a motorcycle poker run with three different stops across the state. For those choosing not to ride, they may attend the dinner for $10 per adult, $5 per child and children under age of 3 are free. Info: (860) 228-0096 or online www.holyfami­lyhebron.org.

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET
The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park off Route 44 across from Ashford Town Hall. The market will run every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October. Info: Loretta at birdeye123@earthlink.net.

COVENTRY FARMERS MARKET
The Coventry Farmers Market is held at the Nathan Hale Homestead at 2299 South St. The market will run every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. Info: www.coventryfarmersmarket.com.

OPEN HOUSE – SOUTH WINDHAM FIRE DEPARTMENT
South Windham Fire Department, 41 Machine Shop Hill Road, South Windham will be hosting an open house to celebrate 100 years of service to the community from 1 to 4 p.m. featuring fire prevention, blood pressure screening, apparatus review and history displays.

Posted 6-24-2011

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This Weekend – Tag Sales, Farmers Markets and more

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

THRIFT SHOP AND KIDS’ BOUTIQUE
The thrift shop and kids’ boutique is open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St., Willimantic. New items every week. Spring items have arrived. The shops will be closed Saturday, July 2, for the holiday weekend. Info: (860) 423-6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

CANTERBURY VFW BOOK SALE
Canterbury VFW, Route 169, North Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will be holding a book sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

NEIGHBORHOOD TAG SALE – COVENTRY LAKE
The Gerald Park Association will be hosting a neighborhood tag sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Streets include: Avery Shores, Dooley Avenue, Fitzgerald Boulevard, Ross Avenue, Washburn Avenue and adjacent streets. Multiple tag sales within a few blocks.

GIANT YARD SALE
Canterbury Finnish Hall, Route 169, Canterbury, will be hosting a yard sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vendors welcome. Info: (860) 564-7432.

ANNIVERSARY AND SUMMER READING SPECTACULAR
Janet Carlson Calvert Library, 5 Tyler Drive, Franklin, will host a summer reading program from 10 a.m. to noon. Visitors can enjoy a piece of cake and see how the library has grown. Sign up for summer reading and meet winners of the circus-theme anniversary quilt children’s contest.

‘STUPENDOUSLY WONDERFUL MUSIC SHOW’
The Babcock Library, 25 Pompey Hollow Road, Ashford will host Susan Peak’s “Stupendously Wonderful Music Show” at 10:30 a.m. in Knowlton Hall. For children ages 3-10.

SATURDAY BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Hospice of Eastern Connecticut, 34 Ledgebrook Drive, Mansfield will hold its Saturday bereavement group from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Group is appropriate for those who are grieving a year or more. Group is open to the community. Info: (860) 456-7288, ext. 293.

COVENANT SOUP KITCHEN 2^nd STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
Jillson Square, Willimantic, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 Admission (children under 12 Free). Food and beverages available for sale. Games, entertain­ment and door prizes.

SCOTLAND HUNTINGTON HOMESTEAD OPEN HOUSE
Tour guides will lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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, donations welcome. Info: (860) 423-1547.

33^rd ANNUAL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
The First Congregational Church of Lebanon will host its annual Strawberry Festival at 7 p.m. Donation $7 adults and $3 children. Take-out available.

CARIBBEAN EVENING – MANSFIELD SENIORS
New summer hours at the Mansfield Senior Center, 303 Maple Road, Storrs, begin with a June 23 Caribbean dinner at 5:45 p.m. and entertain­ment provided by Bruce John. $5 payable with reservation by June 20. For info:/reservations call (860) 429-0262.

SUNDAY, JUNE 19

FATHER’S DAY BUFFET BREAKFAST
The American Legion Hall, Route 207, Lebanon, will be hosting a Father’s Day breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Adults are $7, seniors $5 and children 12 and under $5.

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET
The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park, off Route 44 across from the town hall. The market will run every Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October. Info: Loretta at birdeye123@earth­link.net.

FATHER’S DAY LOBSTER DINNER
The Legionnaires will be serving a lobster dinner at 1 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 138 Snake Hill Road, Coventry. Cost is $25/person. Reservations suggested. Info:/tickets: Jack Lacek at (860) 742-7017.

COVENTRY FARMERS MARKET
The Coventry Farmers Market is held at the Nathan Hale Homestead at 2299 South St. The market will run every Sunday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. Info: www.coventryfarmersmarket.com.

Posted 6-17-2011

Have a news item or event 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.

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