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Living History Play in New LondonThe public is invited to take a journey into the past by attending the premier production of “The Holly and the Ivy,” a living history play that will take place in four historic properties in downtown New London. The audience will travel back in time on a horse and carriage ride to the Hempstead Houses in the early 1700s. Additional scenes take place in the Shaw Mansion and the Custom House with the final scene of a soldier returning from World War II in 1945 in Union Station. The play covers 200 years of New London’s history and is based on historical facts with characters who are key figures in New London and Connecticut history. The 90-minute performances take place December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10. Friday performances run every 30 minutes starting at 4 p.m. with the last performance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday performances run every 30 minutes from 1 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 starting December 1, $15 until November 30. Children 12 and under are half price. Space is limited. Reservations, information, 860-444-CITY or www.newlondonmainstreet.org.

Protecting Your Data Business ProgramThe Simsbury Library's Business Resource Center, in partnership with the Simsbury Chamber of Commerce, will host a two-part workshop "Protecting Your Data," from 8 to 8:45 a.m., December 1 and 15, 2006. Anyone who uses a computer in their business is encouraged to attend these two sessions to learn about anti-virus, anti-spy ware, anti-spam and firewall tools to protect your businesses. The program is free and open to the public. To register or for more infromation, call 860-658-7663 or on line at www.simsburylibrary.info.

Holiday Gala Benefit in MonroeA Holiday Gala Benefit for the Birmingham Group Health Services will be held from 7 p.m. to midnight, December 1, 2006, at The Waterview in Monroe. Tickets are $125 per person and include food, drink, dancing and silent auction. All proceeds benefit BGHS. Call 203-736-2601 for tickets or information. Website is www.bghealth.org.

Gospel Concert at QuinnipiacQuinnipiac University’s gospel choir Praise “2” Him Ensemble and other gospel choirs from the Greater New Haven area will present a holiday gospel concert at 7 p.m., December 1, 2006, in Alumni Hall on the university campus, 275 Mt. Carmel Avenue, Hamden. The free concert is open to the public. Information, 203-582-8652.

2006 Arts Awards Honorees in PlainvilleThe Arts Council of Greater New Haven will honor outstanding organizations and members from the region at its annual arts award luncheon at 11:45 a.m., December 1, 2006, at the New Haven Lawn Club, 193 Whitney Avenue, New Haven. The theme is "Revolutionary Visionaries," and honors members of the community who envision the unimaginable and use the arts in revolutionary ways to engage the community, create beauty and call for social change. Tickets are $60 for members and $70 for non-members. Call 203-772-2788.

Holiday Show in East HartfordThe Town of East Hartford will host a holiday show with Five O'Clock Shadow December 1, 2006, in the East Hartford Community Cultural Center, across from the town green, 50 Chapman Place, East Hartford. Doors open at 7 p.m., the show begins at 8 p.m. Advance tickets are $12 for students and $15 for adults. Tickets at the door at $15 and $20. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Sing-a-Long on the town green with First Edition Choral and Sunset Ridge School Chorus will perform. Traditional visits from Frosty, Rudolph and Santa Claus are planned. The green is located at 1021 -1037 Main Street, East Hartford.

Ladies' Night OutSt. Mary's Home and School Association is sponsoring a Ladies' Night Out from 7 to 9:30 .m., December 1, 2006, at St. Mary's parish hall, 87 South Main Street, Middletown. The event will feature a cheesecake bar with all the toppings, wine tasting and five-minute back massages, shopping with local vendors such as Tastefully Simple, Body Shop, Pampered Chef and Whiskey Pete's will be available. Admission is $10 with $2 off with the donation of one non-perishablke food item for Amzaing Grace Food Pantry. Call 860-343-0831 or 860-343-9278 for information.

Christmas in RivertonChristmas in Riverton will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., December 1 and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., December 2, 2006. Sponsored by the Riverton merchants Association, the event features a champagne tour Friday night, special restaurant menus, lighting of the tree, caroling, door prizes and theater performances. As a special event, Peter Greenwood will open his glass blowing studio to the public to come and blow their own Christmas ornaments. The fee is $25 per ornament. The studio will be open from 5 to 8 p.m., December 1 and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., December 2. Information, www.petergreenwood.com or www.RivertonCT.com.

Holiday Bazaar in East GranbyThe Copper Hill United Methodist Church, Copper Hill Road, East Granby, is hosting a Holiday Bazaar from 1 to 4 p.m., December 1, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 2, 2006. There will be handcrafted items, quilted, knit or crocheted, wooden toys, ceramics and decorations, a bake sale with homemade cookies, cakes, pies, breads and a food sale with take-out main dishes. A luncheon will be served on December 2 which includes soup, a beverage and a sundae to be available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Night of Laughter in East HavenA night of laughter planned by the St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee as a fundraiser for its 2007 St. Patrick's Day Parade, will be held atr 7:30 p.m., December 1, 2006, at the Irish American Community Center, 9 Venice PLace, East haven. The evening will feature entertainment by Treehouse Comedy with Tony Liberati as the opening act followed by Billy Winn from WPLR 99.1 FM. Tickets are $20 and are available by calling 203-488-4902 or 203-397-8523. Informatioon, www.stpatricksdayparade.org.

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Fundraiser Planned in WallingfordM. Salon and Spa are raising funds for the Holiday for Giving Program in Wallingford, run entirely on donations. Staff at the salon are contributing by donating $5 for the privilege of wearing red, green, silver or gold which vary from their standard black and white dress code. The tanning and bodycare is offering specials during the salon’s open house from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 2, 2006. Donations will be accepted through December 10. Information, www.msalonandspace.com.

Art Show in LebanonKick-off fundraiser to help build an ADA compliant playground, Bailey's Garden, at the Lebanon Elementary School in memory of Bailey Teresa Shifrin. The art show will be held from 7:30 to 11 p.m., December 2, 2006, at the Spa at Grand Lake in Lebanon. The event will include work of area artists, live jazz, hors d'oeurves and a wine tasting. A donation of $30 is asked. Information, e-mail Bailey'sGarden@Bailey'sGarden.org, www.baileysgarden.org, 860-642-4452.

Gingerbread Fair in CollinsvilleA Gingerbread Fair featuring gift baskets, wreaths, arrangements, crafts, holiday gifts and baked goods will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., December 2 and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 3, 2006, at St. Patrick's Church, 7 Burlington Avenue, Collinsville. Free admission. In addition there will be a children's activitiy corner, homemade gingerbread and a lunch cafe with chili dogs and pizza.

Middlefield Tree Lighting and Carol SingThe Middlefield Women’s Club will sponsor the 18th annual Middlefield Tree Lighting and Carol Sing Celebration from 5 to 8 p.m., December 2, 2006, on the town green and community center. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be coming. Enter your child in the contest to light the tree with Santa. Refreshments and amusements to follow including a gingerbread house contest.

Country Christmas in DurhamA Country Christmas will be celebrated from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 2, 2006, at the United Churches of Durham, routes 17 and 68.

Winter Wonderland Craft ExpoThe third annual Winter Wonderland Craft Expo will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 2, 2006, at East School on Torrington. Sponsored by the East School PTO, the event will feature over 45 exhibitors, a children’s shopping corner, free gift wrapping, a food court and more. Free admission.

Stuff a Bus in East HartfordFirst Student Inc. of East Hartford, the local school bus company, is holding a Holiday Campaign, “Stuff a Bus,” to collect perishable and non-perishable food as well as new unwrapped toys for children ages birth to 12 years old. The event will benefit the local food bank and Food Share to be distributed throughout town by St. Mary’s Church and the East Hartford Social Service Department. The collection will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., December 2, 2006, at 31 Main Street, Putnam Bridge Plaza, East Hartford.

Christmas Bazaar in New BritainA giant Christmas Bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 2, 2006, at St. Matthew's Church, 87 Franklin Square, New Britain. Convenient parking is in the rear of the church off Glen Street. Featured will be the church's own Christmas cookies, home-baked goods, candies, unique decrations, attic treasures, plants and jewelry Breakfast sandwiches, German and American foods, desserts and beverages will be served all day.

Children's Holiday Festival in LebanonThe Lebanon Cooperative Nursery School will hold its annual Children's Holiday Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 2, 2006, at the First Congregational Church in Lebanon. There will be crafts, holiday plants, decorating cookies, pictures with Santa, face painting, home-cooked food vendors and a silent auction.

Holiday Tree Lighting in TollandThe annual Holiday Tree Lighting will be held from 4 to 5 p.m., December 2, 2006, on the Tolland Green. This family event is free and will include holiday music and caroling. There will be a special appearance by Santa and one child will be selected to turn on the lights. Refreshments will be served. Those attending are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to the Tolland Food Pantry.

Holiday Bazaar in SomersA Holiday Bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 2, 2006, at Somers Congregational Church, 599 Main Street, Somers. Free admission. The event will include crafts, knits, poinsettias and luncheon at 11:30 a.m.

Basket Making at UConnBasket Making, parts I and II will be offered by the CT State Museum of Natural History and the CT Archaeology Center on the Storrs campus, from 10 a.m. to noon, December 2 and 9, 2006. The cost is $15 per member and $20 for non-members. Participants will make their own melon basket to take home. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Information, http://cac.uconn.edu/mncurrentcalendar.html.

Christmas Fair in ClintonA Christmas Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 2, 2006, at the First Church of Christ, Congregational, Route 1, East Main Street, Clinton, across from town hall. Two floors of handcraft exhibitors and a variety of church booths will be featured. Lunch is available from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a children only shopping room, baked goods and holiday treats, cheese and apple pies, Christmas Treasures Past room, tea cup auction, handcrafted items, hand-knitted items, wood crafts and more. Information, 860-669-5735, www.firstchurchclinton.org.

Library Open House and Craft SaleThe Harwinton Public Library, 80 Bentley Drive, Harwinton, will hold a Holiday Open House and Craft Sale from 9:30 a.m. to noon, December 2, 2006. The event features handmade items donated by Library Friends and town residents as well as unique door prizes including “Molly” An American Girl doll and accessories., gas cards and a Chocolate Lover’s Basket and other items. Proceeds benefit library programs. Admission is free. Information, 860-485-9113.

Christmas Fair in BranfordThe First Congregational Church of Branford will hold its 79th annual Christmas Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 2, 2006, at the church. Homemade gifts and ornaments, collectibles, baked goods, homemade candy, greens, toys, children’s crafts, curiosities, will be featured and breakfast and lunch served.

Christmas Fair in East HavenA Christmas Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 2, 2006, at Christ and the Epiphany Church, 39 Park Place, East Haven. The fair offers handmade crafts, ornaments, giftware, jewelry, baked goods, raffles, a lunch counter and more. Information, 203-467-2310.

Holiday Craft Show in BristolSt. Matthew School, Welch Drive, Bristol, will hold its ninth annual Holiday Craft Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 2, 2006, at the school. Information, 860-585-8560, www.stmatthewschool.com.

Craft Fair in ManchesterThe YWCA of Manchester, 78 North Main Street, Manchester, will hold a craft fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 2, 2006. Crafters, vendors, Scholastic books, children's activities, Jan Mann, author of "Cruising Connecticut with a Picnic Basket," will be on hand with books to purchase. There will also be a bake sale. Information, 860-645-2240.

Holiday Fair and Bake Sale in New BritainA Holiday Fair and Bake Sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 2, 2006, at South Church, 90 Main Street, New Britain. Home-baked goods, treasures from the attic and gifts from around the world. Information www.southchurch.org.

C.A.S.T. Goods and Services AuctionC.A.S.T, a children’s theater organization, will hold its second annual Goods and Services Auction December 2, 2006, at the Weston Auction House, 2799 Route 44, Coventry. Preview at 1 p.m., auction begins at 2 p.m. There will be live and silent auctions, with items such as themed baskets created by the students, local business gifts, gift certificates and more. The $5 admission includes refreshments. Information, www.casttheatre.org or call 860-649-5062.

Winterfest in EllingtonThe town of Ellington will celebrate its third annual Winterfest from 4 to 7 p.m., December 2, 2006, on the Gazebo Green between Route 286 and Route 140. The event will feature a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, a tree-lighting ceremony, a torchlight parade down Main Street and entertainment and refreshments at various venues around the green. Information, 860-875-3885.

Dickens’ Day in RockvilleDickens’ Day will be celebrated from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., December 2, 2006, in downtown Rockville. Free admission but a non-perishable food donation will be accepted. The event will feature the animated rendition of “A Christmas Carol,” at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., at the Civil War Museum. There will be story-telling, tree lighting ceremony, dance performances, holiday crafts, outdoor roasted turkey and goose for the tasting, prepared by local Boy Scouts. Information, http://www.munic.state.ct.us/vernon/Dickens-Day/dickensd.htm.

A Christmas Fair in Bethel sponsored by Danbury Parents Leaders, will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 2, 2006, at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Bethel. There will be handmade items, gift baskets, ornaments, children’s crafts, homemade soup, sandwiches and baked goods.

”Jazz Nutcracker” Performance PlannedThe Hartford Conservatory will present Duke Ellington’s “Jazz Nutcracker, “ December 1 and 2, 2006, at the Carol Autorino Center on the campus of St. Joseph College, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford. Performing will be the New England Jazz Ensemble. Tickets and information call 860-246-2588 or online at www.hartfordconservatory.org

Bach's Christmas Oratorio in HartfordThe Hartford Symphony Orchestra, the Hartford Chorale and CONCORA join together to perform Bach's Christmas Oratorio, Part II at 8 p.m., December 2, and at 3 p.m., December 3, 2006, at the Belding Theater at the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts in Hartford. Tickets range from $25 to $45 and are available through HSO ticket services, 860-244-2999 or on-line at www.hartfordsymphony.org.

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Coventry Farmers’ Holiday MarketFood lovers and gift hunters can get into the festive mood by shopping at the Coventry Regional Farmers’ Holiday Market from 1 to 4 p.m., December 3, 2006. Part of Coventry’s Old-Fashioned Christmas in the Village, the market has become the premier shopping destination for a range of fresh local foods perfect for a homemade holiday feast. Look for maple syrup, honey, beeswax candles, artisan soaps, fudge and jars of preserves, farmstand cheese and apple cider. Patrons may also stock up on winter keepers like squash, potatoes, beets, pears and apples. The event also includes a visit from Santa, horse-drawn hay rides, community caroling. The Holiday Market will be held in the Ackert Building across from the Bidwell Tavern. Information, www.coventryfarmersmarket.com.

Lollipop Run in Shaker PinesThe Shaker Pines Firefighter’s 40-something Annual Santa’s Lollipop Run will be held December 2 and 3, 2006. The firefighters will be escorting Santa through the Shaker Pines Fire District in Enfield. On Saturday, December 2, they will visit the children on the east side of North Maple Street including the two lakes and on Sunday, December 3, they will visit streets west of North Maple Street, Parents are reminded to have their children dressed in warm clothing in case of inclement weather. The visits will be made all day. Anyone in interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter is encouraged to talk with any of the “elves” assisting Santa.

Winter Carnival for Toys for TotsA winter carnival featuring games, a bouncy, prizes, vendors, hot cocoa and food, Santa will be on-hand for pictures and to take Christmas letters. It will be held from 11 a.m. to dusk, December 3, 2006, at Nardi Family Chiropractic, Plaza 44, 195 West Main Street, Avon. Those attending are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for distribution . Two Marines will be available to collect toys. Info\rmation, www.nardifamilychiropractic.com or 860-677-6401.

Holiday Fair in East HavenThe St. Vincent de Paul Holiday Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 2, 2006, snow date is December 3, at St. Vincent de Paul Church hall, 35 Bishop Street, East Haven. Great food, crafters, raffles, cakewalk and a visit from Santa. Information, http.//www.stincentdepaulschool.org/church.htm.

Santa’s Workshop in Moodus”Santa’s Workshop” is a new holiday dance performance composed by dedicated dancers from Dance 10 Youth Ballet Ensemble. The performance tells the story of Santa’s elves preparing for Christmas Eve through narration, dance, scenery and costumes. The show includes elves, reindeer, candy, cookies and toys that come to life and also Santa. The performance is at 2 and 7 p.m., December 3, 2006, at Nathan Hale-Ray High School in East Haddam. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children and seniors. Tickets and information, 860-563-4707.

Holiday Concert in Southington"The Holly and the Ivy" holiday concert will be presented by the Southington Festival Chorale at 3 p.m., December 3, 2006, at the Plantsville Congregational Church, 109 Church Street, Plantsville. The 45-voice regional chorus is under the auspices of the Southington Recreation Department and the concert will feature soloists and instrumentalists performing holiday music. Admission is free, public invited. Information, 860-628- 6823.

Kenny Rankin in FairfieldSinger, songwriter and musician Kenny Rankin will appear at the Fairfield Theatre Company, 70 Sanford Street, Fairfield, at 7:30 p.m., December 3, 2006. Tickets are $52 and $42 and are available on-line at www.fairfieldtheatre.org or by calling 203.259.1036.

Forensic Investigation of Venture Smith CT State Museum of Natural History and the CT Archaeology Center on the Storrs campus, will offer “Forensic Archaeological Investigation of Venture Smith and His Family, at 3 p.m., December 3, 2006, in the Biological Sciences and Physics Building, Room 130, on the UConn campus. The lecture is free and no registration is needed. Information, http://www.cac.uconn.ed/mnhcurrentcalendar.html.

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'Taste of New York' in BloomfieldConnecticut Children's Medical Center, the University of Connecticut Health Center's HIV Program and Teens Against Negligence will present "A Little Taste of New York" from 4:30 to 7:30p.m., December 5, 2006, at New York, New York Downtown Delicatessen, 12 Mountain Avenue, Bloomfield. Proceeds from the event will benefit HIV amd STD prevention services and programs for children and youths in the Greater Hartford area. Tickets, which include food and beverages, are $15 per person. Information, call 860-545-7570 or visit www.teensagainstnegligence.com or www.ccmckids.org. Snao date is December 6.

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Small Business Program in SimsburyThe Simsbury Library's Business Resource Center will host a workshop on business planning and strategy at 6:30 p.m., December 6, 2006, at the library, 725 Hopmeadow Street. The workshop, entitled "Create Next Year's Success Today" will be presented by Deborah Polydys, principal of Strategic Management Resources LLC. Those attending will learn why they need an action plan vs. a business plan, how a strategic assessment of their business impacts their sales and marketing and how to leverage their current client base to increase sales. The program is free, open to the public. To register or for more information, call 860-658-7663 or on-line at www.simsburylibrary.org.

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Quinnipiac Singers to PerformQuinnipiac University QU Singers will perform in a free concert at 7:15 p.m., December 7, 2006, at the Clarice L. Buckman Theater on the campus, 275 Mount Carmel Avenue, Hamden. The public is invited. The choir will perform songs by Harry Chapin, Carole King and Italian composer Antonio Lucio Vivaldi and more. Information, 203-582-8652.

Celebrate the Holidays in HartfordEnjoy a tour of the Butler-McCook House and Garden and Another Octave: Connecticut Women's Chorus as they perform holiday carols. Light refreshments will be served. The event is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., December 7, 2006, at the house, 396 Main Street, Hartford. Sponsored by the Antiquarian & Landmarks Society, the event is free but reservations are requested, call 860-522-1806. All A&L members will receive an extra 10 percent discount in the gift shop during the evening.

Spiders in WethersfieldSpiders hold a special fascination in many of our imaginations. Naturalist Rusty Gilman will discuss the general characteristics of spider and introduce well-known species with the help of the rose hair tarantula “Fluffy” and other live species. The event is from 7 to 8 p.m., December 7, 2006, at the Eleanor Buck Wolf Nature Center in Mills Woods Park, Wethersfield. Suggested donation is $4 to $5 and the program is part of the center’s Nature Lecture series. Information, naturecenter@wethersfieldct.com

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Living History Play in New LondonThe public is invited to take a journey into the past by attending the premier production of “The Holly and the Ivy,” a living history play that will take place in four historic properties in downtown New London. The audience will travel back in time on a horse and carriage ride to the Hempstead Houses in the early 1700s. Additional scenes take place in the Shaw Mansion and the Custom House with the final scene of a soldier returning from World War II in 1945 in Union Station. The play covers 200 years of New London’s history and is based on historical facts with characters who are key figures in New London and Connecticut history. The 90-minute performances take place December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10. Friday performances run every 30 minutes starting at 4 p.m. with the last performance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday performances run every 30 minutes from 1 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 starting December 1, $15 until November 30. Children 12 and under are half price. Space is limited. Reservations, information, 860-444-CITY or www.newlondonmainstreet.org.

Winter Dance Concert in West HavenThe Winter Dance Concert at the University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, will be held at 8 p.m., December 8, 2006, in Dodds Auditorium. The performance features dancvers from UNH's 5, 6, 7, 8, Dance Club, the Beginning Modern Dance Class, Latin American Students Association and Emanon Dance Crew. Donation is $5 and the public is invited.

Bluegrass Music in East HartfordA night of bluegrass music with The Seldom Scene at the East Hartford Community Cultural Center, 50 Chapman Place, East Hartford, December 8, 2006. Doors open at 6 p.m. for jamming. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Information and directions, call 860-528-1458 or log onto www.ehccc.com. Advance tickets can be ordered on line.

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Breakfast with Santa in Windsor LocksThe Windsor Locks Middle School Leo Club is hosting Breakfast with Santa from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., December 9, 2006, at the Windsor Locks Middle School, 7 Center Court. Admission is a new, unwrapped toy.

Nutcracker Sweets in West Hartford"An Evening of Nutcracker Sweets" will be held from 7:30 to 11 p.m., December 9, 2006, at the Carol Autorino Center for Performing Arts at St. Joseph College, West Hartford, sponsored by the Ballet Theatre Company. Admission charge is $35 per person and features an elegant evening of appetizers, desserts, wines and champagne with a silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Ballet Theatre Company's productions and community programs. Information, www.balletheatrecompany.org.

Holiday Havoc in TerryvilleHoliday Havoc, a wrestling spectacular, will be held at 7 p.m., December 9, 2006, at Terryville High School, 21 North Main Street, Terryville, sponsored by Northeast Wrestling and the Terryville High School Athletic Boosters. Featured will be superstars Bubba Ray and Devon, Team 3D, also known as the Dudley Boys and WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter. They will be joined by "The Pheonmenal" AJ Styles, Bristol's own Kurt Adonis, Waterbury's Ron Zombie, a woman's match and a special appearance by Santa. Suitable for the entire family. Tickets start at $15, current or retired members of the armed forces with a military id will receive general admission tickets for $10. Purchase tickets ar Strawberries Music and Video stores, Fun Stuff Video of Terryville, Tropical Sun Tan Center, Fazo Deli, Terryville High School athletic office or by calling 860-874-1244.

Pet Pictures with SantaThe fifth annual Pet Pictures with Santa to benefit the Purr Project, a volunteer organization dedicated to fining good homes for cats, will be held from noon to 5 p.m., December 9 and 10, 2006, at the New Haven Central Hospital for Veterinary Medicine, 843 State Street, New Haven. The cost is $12 for the first print and the second for half price. Prints will be available the same day. There will be refreshments, prize drawings, pet toys for stocking stuffers. Walks-in accepted, appointments preferred, call 203-865-0878 or e-mail purrproject@yahoo.com.

John Rehberg Benefit DinnerThe Valley Shore Emergency Communications, the 911 dispatching center for most of Middlesex county, will host a benefit dinner December 9 for John Rehberg, a Valley Shore 911 dispatcher and Westbrook and Old Saybrook firefighter and EMT, who was diagnosed with cancer this past summer. The dinner will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. at the John Winthrop Middle School, 1 Winthrop Road, Deep River. The cost is $10 per person and will also feature raffles sold for various prizes to benefit Rahberg. Information, 860-399-2435. Donations may be made to the John Rehberg Fund, PO Box 497, Westbrook, CT 06498.

Toy Drive in TrumbullThe Long Hill Fire Department, 4229 Madison Avenue, Trumbull, will hold a “Fill a Fire Truck” toy drive from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., December 9, 2006. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to be donated to Trumbull Social Services. Meet your local firefighters, visit with Santa, see the decorated firehouse and fire truck, live music, refreshments. Information, www.longhillfd.com.

Main Street Singer in New Britain"Main Street Singer," a concert program of treble vocies with a Christmas theme, will be presented at 4 p.m., December 9, 2006, at South Church, 90 Main Street, New Britain. A $5 donation is requested, those 12 and under are free. Information, www.musicseries.org, or 860-223-7555.

Mime Artist at Artwell"Kid's Stuff," with acclaimed mime artist Janet Carafa who will perform her silent artistry for children at 11 a.m., December 9, 2006, at the Artwell Gallery, 19 Water Street, Torrington. Without a word, stories are told through the skillful gestural dance of face and body. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children. Meet Carafa and enjoy refreshments following the performance. Information, 860-482-5122, www.artwellgallery.org.

Holiday Rap in Torrington"Common Thread Holiday Rap of Words and Music, will be held at 8 p.m., December 9, 2006, at Artwell Gallery, 19 Water Street, Torrington. Join the Gift Rappers for a night of poetry and music. There will be tasty temptations and door prizes. Suggested donation is $7. Information, 860-482-5122, www.artwellgallery.org.

'The Road to Bethlehem'Experience the holiday season viewing "The Road to Bethlehem" from the comfort of your car. Live animals and people recreate scenes from the night Jesus was born. This free community drive-thru will be presented from 5 to 8 p.m., December 9, 2006, at the Cheshire United Methodist Church, 205 Adademy Road, Cheshire. Donations to benefit local area food and fuel banks will be collected. Information or directions, 203-272-4626.

Family Science Day in OrangeFamily Science Day will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 9, 2006, at the SmartLiving Center in Orange sponsored by United Illuminating. Families are invited to participate throughout the day and events include children's workshops by Little Science of Woodbridge, Energy Jeopardy, prizxes, giveaways, face painting and educational, energy-saving demonstrations. Adults can participate in seminars and learn economizing tips as well as view displays of the latest energy-efficient products and home improvment resources. Information, www.uinet.com.

Family, Youth Holiday EventThe annual Family and Youth Extravaganza’s theme is “The Gifts in Youth,” will be held December 9, 2006, at First Congregational Church, 10 Wintonbury Avenue, Bloomfield. A social hour will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. with the program ending at 10 p.m. The formal wear annual event spotlights the greatness in youth. The mentor for the evening will be Walter “Doc” Hurley who will encourage young people to pursue their dreams. There will be candlelight dining, sharing of Christmas cake, a ginger ale toast, holiday fare, music and fun. Donations accepted. Information, www.each1teach1inc.org.

Tree-Throwing Contest in ClintonThe third annual Tree Throwing Conest will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, December 9, 2006, at Grove Gardens, 341 East Main Street, Clinton. Whoever throws the tree the farthest wins a free, fresh cut Christmas tree. One male and one female winner. Information, www.grovegardens.com.

Holiday Bazaar in HartfordA holiday bazaar designed for youths and senior citizens in the Hartford community will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 9, 2006, at 2233 Main Street, Hartford, hosted by Allen Chapel, AME Church. All items are $25 or less, may under $10. Items include jewelry, ornaments, calendars, candles and more. Free holiday card-making station. Donations of new, unwrapped toys will also be accepted between the hours of 10 a.m. and noon for the Toys for Tots program.

Toy and Food Drive in MoosupBoy Scout Troop 36 will hold a Toy and Food Drive at 3 p.m., December 8 through the night until 5 p.m., December 9, 2006, on the lawn of Faith Community Church, 153 Main Street, near Moosup Elementary School. The following will be accepted: non-perishable food including frozen turkeys, canned or wrapped hams, peanut butter, canned vegetables and tuna will be appreciated, new, unwrapped toys or cash or check donations, payable to Troop 36. All donations will be divided between St. John's Food Pantry, Toys for Kids and Project PIN.

Holiday Toy Drive in LisbonThree Rivers Young Marines will hold a Holiday Toy Drive from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 9 and 10, 2006, at Lisbon Landing. The drive will benefit children in New London county.

Carol Concert in WoodbridgeTrinity Church, 33 Center Road, Woodbridge, will celebrate the Christmas season with a presentation of selected carols sung by the adult, youth and children's choirs with orchestra accompaniment. The featured pieces range from contemporary Christian songs by John Rutter to the percussive Nigearian Christmas song "Betelehemu" performed by the adult and youth choirs. The program will be held at 3 and 7 p.m., December 9 and at 6 p.m., December 10, 2006. Information, 203-868-2722.

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Trains on Display in TorringtonThe Torrington Area Model Railroaders will once again display three train layouts in conjunction with the city of Torrington. The N scale, HO scale and G scale layouts will be on display at Torrington City Hall, Main Street, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 9, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 10, 2006. The layouts are modular and club members will operate trains,. demonstrate model railroading techniques and answer questions. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day, children will be able to build a freight car, run on the railroad and take it home. Supplies are limited. Admission is free.

Holiday Baking ProgramSpend an afternoon sampling an array of homemade baked goods cooked over an open hearth at the Nathan Hale Hometead, 2299 South Street, Coventry, sponsored by the Antiquarian & Landmarks Society. Visitors will learn various colonial baking methods such as using a beehive oven and a Dutch oven. Learn how the Hales would have spent the holiday season and why they did not celebrate Christmas. Guests will sample a variety of baked goods including breads and desserts. $40 for members, $50 for non-members, call 860-742-6917 or log onto www.hartnet.org/als/nathanhale.

CT RollerGirls Debut in WaterburyCT RollerGirls debut bout, "Seasons Beatings," will be held December 10, 2006, at the Waterbury Skating Center, 60 Harvester Road, Waterbury. Doors open at 6 p.m., the bout starts at 7 p.m. Admission is $12 in advance, $15 at the door, $25 VIP. This is the state's all-female flat track roller derby league. Tickets available on line, www.ctrollerderby.com.

Holiday Craft Fair in MeridenA Holiday Extravaganza Vendor and Craft Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 10, 2006, at The Thomas Edison Middle School, 1355 North Broad Street, Meriden, sponsored by Families as Partners. The event will feature over 40 direct sale and craft vendors including Pampered Chef, Party Lite, Discovery Toys, Tastefully Simple, Mary Kay, poinsettias, handmade jewelry and more. There will be hourly door prizes, raffles tickets, refreshments and a free gift for the first 50 customers.

Breakfast with SantaHave breakfast with Santa from 7 to 11 a.m., December 10, 2006, at the Scotland Fire Safety Complex in Scotland. Santa will arrive by a special flight at 8 a.m. Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for children ages 4 to 10, $20 family maximum. Sponsored by the Scotland Fire Department. Information. www.svfd16.com.

Winter Holiday Breakfast in CromwellThe Cromwell Lions Club will host a Winter Holiday Breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon, December 10, 2006, at Elizabeth's Restaurant, 825 Cromwell Avenue, Route 3, Cromwell. This is an all-you-can eat breakfast and proceeds will be benefit the Campaign Sightfirst II and community projects. Santa will be on-hand for pictures.

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Invasion of the Purple LoosestrifeLearn how plants introduced form other parts of the world are causing problems for local plants and wildlife. University of Connecticut extension educator Donna Elllis will discuss the challenges of managing invasive plant species including her local research on the Purple Loosestrife. The program will be held from 7 to 8 p.m., December 14, 2006, at the Eleanor Buck Wolf Nature Center in Mill Woods Park, Wethersfield, Suggested donation is $4 to $5. Information, www.naturecenter@wethersfieldct.com.

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'Great Joy' Christmas Musical in Hebron"Great Joy," a Christmas musical will be presented in the RHAM High School, 85 Wall Street, Hebron at 7 p.m., December 15; 2 and 7 p.m., December 16 and 17, 2006. This free program is presented by Trinity Covenant Church of Manchester and will feature mass choirs, drama, pagentry and members of the Manchester Symphony Orchestra. This is the 22nd annual Christmas musical given by the church. Information, www.trinitycovenantchurch.org.

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Stuff a Cruiser Toy DriveEast Haddam Police and Resident Troopers will hold its seocnd annual Stuff a Cruiser Toy Drive from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 16, 2006, at Nathan Hale Plaza, 26 Falls Road, Route 149, Moodus. New, unwrapped toys are needed for children ages 0 to 18. All donations will be distributed to children in need within East Haddam and Moodus. Information, 860-537-7555, Trooper Mike Hassett.

Chanukah on the GreenChabad: East of the River will host a unique event for the upcoming Chanukah holiday. The celebration will begin at 7 p.m., December 16, 2006, on the Hubbard Green, corner of Hubbard and Main Streets, Glastonbury. This free event will include activities for both adults and children in a heated tent, latkes and hot drinks will be available and there will be music, singing and dancing. A giant Menorah will be kindled and free gifts distrbuted. Information, 860-659-2422 or www.ChabadER.com

Holiday Craft Fair in WallingfordA Holiday Craft Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 16, 2006, at the VFW Hall, Post 591, 23 Prince Street, Wallingford, sponsored by Believe Originals on behalf of the VFW. The fair will feature local artisans with unique wares. A bake sale will also be held. Information, www.believeoriginals.com.

Sounds of the Season Band ConcertSounds of the Season Band Concert will be held at 7:30 p.m., December 16, 2006, at the Naugatuck United Methodist Church, Meadow Street, Route 63, Naugatuck. The Naugatuck Community Band under the direction of Charles Marenghi will perform music by Leroy Anderson, Mozart, Manheim Steamroller and local composer Scott Spallone. The concert is free but donations will be accepted. Doors open at 7 p.m. A carol sing and reception will follow the concert. Information, 203-723-2005.

Holiday Dinner and DanceA Holiday Christmas Dinner and Dance to benefit the Connecticut Children's Medical Center, will be held at 6 p.m., December 16, 2006, at the Enfield Elks. Dinner includes appetizers followed by either prime rib of chicken cordon bleu. Dance to the music of "Heads Up.'' For tickets, $20 pert person, $40 per couple, call 860-749-0946.

von Trapp Holiday Concert in ManchesterElisabeth von Trapp Holiday Concert and Dessert Reception will be held at 7 p.m., December 16, 2006, at Concordia Lutheran Church, Manchester. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 and the door and include a dessert reception. Proceeds benefit the Good News Garage and other programs of Lutheran Social Services if New England. Information, www.goodnewsgarage.org, 860-218-2970.

AMBER Alert in BerlinAn AMBER Alert Id session will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., December 16, 2006, at 279 New Britain Road, Berlin, organized by the Kensington/Berlin Sunrise Rotary Club. It is free.

Toys for Tots DriveThe Valley Toys for Tots Drive sponsored by the Seymour Police Dept. and the Seymour Stop&Shop will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 16, 2006, at the Seymour Police Dept. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to fill a police cruiser.

Robotics Challenge in West HartfordCome learn about the FIRST Program and cheer as approximately 200 high school students complete in the CONNVEX Hangin'-a-Round Vex Robotics Challenge. It will be held beginning at 10 a.m. , December 16, 2006, at the Gengras Student Union at the University of Hartford. It is free and open to the public. To VIP register, call 860-289-0878, ext. 10, or on-line through the events calendar at www.ct.org.

Toy Drive in GlastonburyGlastonbury Youth Football and the Cheerleading Association are sponsoring a toy drive from 10 a.m. to noon, December 16, 2006, at Glas Restaurant, 2935 Main Street, Glastonbury. Refreshments will be served. Donations benefit local charities. Information, 860-828-7061.

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Living Nativity in LitchfieldA Living Nativity will be held at 3 and 4 p.m., December 17, 2006, at Montfort Missionaries in Litchfield. This is the 12th year for the outdoor pageant and this year over 135 children have volunteered their time. Community members have offered their sheep, goats and llamas for the pageant. Information, www.lourdesinlitchfield.org. Free-will donation.

Christmas Candlelight Service in ManchesterJohn Rutter's arrangement of "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly" will be performed as part of the 83rd annual Christmas Candlelight Concert at 6;30 p.m., December 17, 2006, at South United Methodist Church, 1226 Main Street, Manchester. The publkic is invited and a free-will offering to benefit music ministries of the church will be asked. The concert will also contain traditional works by Mozart and David Willcocks and contemporary works by Craig Courtney and Amy Grant. Information, 860-647-9141, http://www.southumc.com/page/779/html.

Christmas Concert in NorwichA Christmas concert "A New Beginning" will be held at 2 and 7 p.m., December 17, 2006, at Central Baptist Church, Norwich. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for those under 12. Call 860-823-1628. The program will feature the Preston Community Chorus performing a vareity of holiday favorites.

'Nutcracker Ballet' in WoodburyThe Woodbury Ballet will present the full-length version of "The Nutcracker" at 2 p.m., December 16 and 17, 2006, at Nonnewaug High School, Woodbury. Immeditately following each performance there will be a free Sugar Plum Party where guests can meet and pose for photos with Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Tickets are $20 and $15 and can be ordered by calling 203-263-0313. Information, www.woodburyballet.com.

Christmas Concert in NaugatuckNaugatuck Community Choir presents "Sing Noel," at 2 p.m., December 17, 2006, at the Naugatuck Congregational Church, Division Street, Naugatuck. The concert will feature music by Marc-Antoine Charpentier, Ralph Vaughn Willliams and William Byrd. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and a free-will offering will be collected at the end of the concert. A reception will follow. Information, 203-91-07121, 203-723-2005.

Community Carol Sing in MysticThe 51st annual Community Carol Sing at Mystic Seaport will be held from 3 to 4 p.m., December 17, 2006. Admission to the museum is free that day with a donation of a canned good. All contributions go to the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center. Also that day, the Museum’s planetarium will present “The Star of Bethlehem” program which merges science, mythology, religion, winter tradition and music. The show will run hourly from noon to 3 p.m. and the cost is $3 with children 5 and under free. Arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of each show. Information, 860-572-5315, www.mysticseaport.org.

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Bone Marrow Donor DriveA bone marrow donor drive will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., December 20, 2006, at St. Brigid School, 100 Mayflower Street, West Hartford. Billy Batayte was diagnosed with leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant from a "matched donor," that is a person with the same tissue type. Tissue type is a little like blood type but much harder to match. No matches have been found among his family members. Batayte grew up in West Hartford and now lives in Burlington. He is the father of three boys. For information, call Kirsten Batayte at 860-761-5104. No appointments are needed.

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Living Nativity and Carol SingFirst Church of Christ, Congregational, Route 1, Clinton will host the Community Living Nativity from 6 to 8 p.m., December 22, and the Community Carol Sing from 7 to 8 p.m., December 22, 2006. Join in the Living Nativity in 30-minute shifts, and return to Fellowship Hall for refreshments. Costumes are provided. The carol sing is an hour of singing traditional Christmas carols in the church sanctuary concluding with the singing of "Silent Night" at the nativity. Free admission and parking and the church is handicapped accessible. Information, www.firstchurchclinton.org.

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Penguin Plunge Kick-Off PartyCountry Tavern's 13th annual Special Olympics Penguin Plunge Kick Off party will be held at 9 p.m., December 23, 2006, at the Country Tavern, 704 Long Hill Road, Guilford. There will be live music with Red-Headed Stepchild playing classic rock. Reservations, 203-453-9205.

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Christmas Dinner in MiddletownCelebrate the season with Christmas dinner at First Congregational Church, 190 Court Street, Middletown. The dinner will be served from noon to 2 p.m., December 25, 2006, at the church or dinners will be delivered to homes. For a ride to the church or to arrange delivery call 860-346-6657, ext. 15. The dinner is free. www.firstchurchucc.org.

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Ongoing

Doc Hurley Basketball ClassicThe 32nd annual Doc Hurley Basketball Classic will be held December 13 to 16, 2006, at Weaver High School and the Hartford Civic Center. Times vary for the 22 schools playing 13 games over the four days. Tickets are $5 each per day for games played at Weaver and $15 per ticket for games at the Civic Center. This is a fundraiser for scholarships that are awarded high school seniors from Greater Hartford and beyond. There will also be halftime shows including a performance by the New Britain High School Marching Band at the Hartford Civic Center. Information, www.docscholar.org.

'The Nutcracker" in West HartfordThe Ballet Theatre Company is performing "The Nutcracker" at the Carol Autorino Center for Performing Arts of St. Joseph College, Asylum Avenue, West Hartford. Performances are at 1, 2, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. and vary by day, December 9 to 17, 2006. Admission is $15 to $30. Ticksts, 860-570-0440 or on-line at www.balletheatrecompany.org.

New London Main StreetThe public is invited to take a journey into the past by attending the premier production of "The Holly and the Ivy," a living history play taking place in four historic properties in downtown New London. To attend, the audience will travel back in time on a horse and carriage ride from the Trolley Visitor Information on Eugene O'Neill Drive to the Hempsted House. Additional scense take place in the Shaw Mansion and the Custom House with the final scene of a soldier returning from World War II in Union Station. The material covers 200 years of the city's history. The approximately one-hour performances take place December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 2006. Friday performances run every 30 minutes starting at 4:30 p.m. with the last performance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday performances will run every 30 minutes from 1 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 until November 30 and $20 starting December 1. Children 12 and under are half price. Tickets can be purchased at the New London Main Street office in The Atrium, 165 State Street and are now on sale. Information, reservations, call 860-444-CITY or log onto www.newlondonmainstreet.org.

Lantern Light Tours in MysticImmerse yourself in the magic of Christmas Eve, 1876, during the annual Lantern Lights Tour at Mystic Seaport, December 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 28 and 29, 2006. A costumed character leads tour-goers through a festive holiday village where they meet other 19th century characters in the museum's annual moving play. Visitors also enjoy a horse and carriage ride, a visit to a tall ship, partipcate in a tavern dance and snack on a ginger cookie. Each tour is about 70 minutes long and they leave every 15 minutes beginning at 5 p.m., except all Saturday dates and Decmeber 22, when the tours leave at 4:45 p.m. Visit www.mysticseaport.org for information. The red tour is handicapped accessible. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for members and $18 for children ages 4 to 17, $16 for members. Call 888-973-2767 or at the Visitors' Center. Reservations strongly recommended.

Perfect Gift Show in TorringtonArtwell Gallery and Community Arts Center, 19 Water Street, Torrington, will hold its “Perfect Gift Show.” The gallery will be stocked with one-of-a-kind artwork and crafts from December 2 to 17 with a special opening reception from 6 to 8 p.m., December 2. Stop by, meet the artists, browse for holiday gifts. Shoppers can look for very reasonably priced artist-made gifts including ornaments, wearable arts, prints, paintings, sculpture, stained glass, pottery, cards, jewelry and more. Store hours are noon to 5 p.m., Thursday through Sunday. Information, 860-482-5155.