Ongoing

Call for Submissions A Call for Photographic Submissions for professional and serious amateur photographers as well as students, is being made by the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield, for its second annual juried photography exhibition to be held in May. This open competition will be curated by a jury of professional photographers and advertising executives. Winning entries will be featured in the IMAGES exhibition at the museum May 8 through June 6, 2010. A preview party will be held May 7. Deadline for entries is April 7, 2010. To submit entries and for information, go to http://data.fairfield.edu.images.

Synergy Socials For children with disabilities or challenges such as anger management, the Waterford-based Synergy Center Corporation offers a unique new option - Synergy Socials, a skill-building class at Mystic Aquarium, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic. The prgoram is open to children from age five to nine with disabilities such as autism, attention deficit disorder, Rett Syndrome and intellectural disabilities, or who have difficulty getting along with other children. The classes are from 4 to 5 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays for six weeks and cost $480. For information, synergycentecorp.com, 860-701-0355.

Helping Hands Minister Walker Outreach Ministries is a public non-profit organization that helps ones who request assistance with food and clothing. It opens at 11 a.m., every second and fourth Saturday each month at 1407 Park Street, Hartford. Information, www.minister-walk-ministries.com, 860-308-2496.

Fill the Truck Event It is Girl Scout Cookie Season and this year with help from area VFWs around the state, there will be a Fill the Truck Event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 20, 2010, with locations in Northford, Stratford, Rockville, Wallingford and Winsted. Information, www.cookievote.com.

'Riverdance' Trip The Elmwood Senior Center is sponsoring a trip to the Oakdale in Wallingford to see "Riverdance" from 12:45 to 5:30 p.m., March 13, 2010. Excellent orchestra seats. The cost is $84 for members and $87 for non-members. Call 860-561-8180 to register or visit the center at 1106 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford.

Senior Trip The Elmwood Senior Center is offering a trip to see "The Sunshine Boys" at the Seven Angels Theater, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 4, 2010. The trip also includes lunch at San Marino with a choice of eggplant, chicken, pork chop or grilled salmon. The cost is $70 for members and $73 for non-members. Call 860-561-8180 to reserve.

Word 2003 Basics Create new or edit existing documents, enter and format text, check spelling and grammar, cut and paste, save to a disk, print and more in this class on Word 2003 Basics to be offered Mondays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., March 1 through 15, 2010, at the Mark Twain Branch of Hartford Public Library, 256 Farmington Avenue, Hartford. Free. Registration ends on the first day of class and can be done in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-7540. Plan to attend all classes in this course.

Transition to Word 2007 Transition to Word 2007 explores the changes from Word 2003, receive a minimum of 30 minutes of individual computer assistance in this class to be offered Mondays, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., March 1 to April 26, 2010, at the Blue Hills Branch of the Hartford Public Library, 649 Blue Hills Avenue, Hartford. Registration ends on the first day of class and can be done in person, or by calling 860-695-7420.

Basic Computer Skills Basic Computer Skills for Job Seekers will be offered from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Mondays, March 1 through 22, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Set up a professional e-mail account, attach a resume, post a resume to an on-line job application and learn the basics of Word and its resume wizard, visit job and company website and fill out on-line job applications. Registration ends on the first day of class and can be done in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course.

Job Search AssistanceReceive one-on-one job search assistance and referrals to the library and other resources by appointment at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. For appointments, call 860-695-6354.

Library Resources Prepare for civil service and college entrance exams by taking on-line and print practices tests during regular library hours at the Hartford Public Library, 500 main Street, Hartford. Browse the collection of job and career books and DVDs, have a resume reviewed, new links to the best on-line sites for job searches. No registration necessary. Information, 860-695-6354 for an appointment, 860-695-6354.

Job & Career ServicesOrientation to Job and Career Services at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford, is offered from 10 to 11 a.m., Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Free. Learn about the collection, programs and services available at the library and use them to increase chances of finding a job. Participants will receive a checklist of essential tools, tasks and skills needed to have a successful job search. No registration necessary. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6354.

Practice Interview Practice answering typical questions to prepare for a successful interview at practice sessions by appointment at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. For appointments, call 860-695-6354.

Job Club Join the Job Club to work on a computer, share tips, network with others, receive assistance and learn through occasional presentations which meets from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. No registration is necessary. Learning Lab, second floor. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

BirthNetwork National BirthNetwork National, a source for mothers with questions about pregnancy, birth or early mothering will hold drop-in hours from 11 to 11:45 a.m., Wednesdays through June 16, 2010, at the Mandell Jewish Community Center, 335 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford. Those interested may also call 860-233-6914 from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Free service and JCC membership is not required.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake Bowl for Kids’ Sake is Big Brothers/Big Sisters signature fundraising event supporting the mentoring programs in 110 cities and towns in the state. It will be held at various times March 27 and April 3, 2010, at Sky Top Lanes in Torrington; Willi Bowl in North Windham; Spare Time Lanes in Bristol; and AMF Silver Lanes in East Hartford. Pick a date and register a team of four to six people at www.nutmegbowlforkids.kintera.org. Enjoy two games of bowling, food, chances at door prizes and music. The cost is $100 minimum. Information, 860-525-5437, ext. 139.

Ciara's Butterfly Bash The second annual Ciara's Butterfly Bash: A benefit for children with Dravet Syndrome, will be held from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m., March 27, 2010, at 1800 East Putnam Avenue, Old Greenwich. Tickets are $150 per person or $250 with preferred seating. Sponsorship opportunities available. Live music by the band Hot House. Tickets, 203-880-9456; information, www.dravetfoundation,.org.

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Basic Computer Skills Basic Computer Skills for Job Seekers will be offered from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Mondays, March 1 through 22, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Set up a professional e-mail account, attach a resume, post a resume to an on-line job application and learn the basics of Word and its resume wizard, visit job and company website and fill out on-line job applications. Registration ends on the first day of class and can be done in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course.

Self-Injury Awareness Day An Informational Fair on Self-Injury will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 1, 2010, at the Legislative Office Building Concourse, Capitol Avenue, Hartford. Free. Information will be provided on the different aspects of self-injury (intentional injuring of oneself). The purpose of the event is to reduce the stigma of self-injury and to let those what self-injure know they are not alone. Information, http://confusinglife.tripod.com, 860-639-0948.

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Basic Computer Skills Basic Computer Skills for Job Seekers will be offered from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesdays, March 2 through 23, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Set up a professional e-mail account, attach a resume, post a resume to an on-line job application and learn the basics of Word and its resume wizard, visit job and company website and fill out on-line job applications. Registration ends on the first day of class and can be done in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course.

Lymphedema Information A Lymphedema Informational Program for Breast Cancer Patients will be offfered from 4 to 5:30 p.m., March 2, 2010, in the Outpatient Clinic Conference Room of Backus Hospital, 111 Salem Tpke, Norwich. Free. Learn about the reasons and risks of Lymphedema. Registration requested by calling 860-832-6317. The group meets quarterly on the first Tuesday of the month and future meetings are June 1, September 7 and December 7. Information, www.echocancerfoundation.com.

Seussabration! A Seussabration! Celebration for children ages five and older will be held at 3 p.m., March 2, 2010, at all branches of Hartford Public Library. Celebrate the life and works of Dr. Seuss with stories and crafts. Free. Information, www.hplct.org.

Business Plan Basics Learn to write a business plan at this class from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., March 2, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. It will be held in the seminar room on the second floor. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295.

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Lunchtime Concerts Wednesday Lenten Lunchtime Concerts will be offered at noon, March 3 and 10, 2010, at First Congregational Church, 1009 Main Street, Branford. Free-will donation. The organ concert will be followed by soup and salad at 1 p.m. On March 3, Jeffrey Wood, director of music at St. Mary Church and on march 10, Noan Horn, a master of music student at the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, will perform. Information, 203-488-7201.

Safer Medicines The University of New Haven's Tagliatela College of Engineering will host a public lecture "Integrated Biomedical Instrumentation: Miniature patch-Clamp and Brain Imaging Devices," with Eugenio Culurciello, associate professor of electrical engineering at Yale University. He will highlight his research on integrated patch-clamp amplifiers for high throughout screening of medical compounds. It will be offered from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m., March 3, 2010, at the Schumann Auditorium, Room B120-, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven. Free. Public invited. Information, 203-932-7144.

Learn to Type Beginners can learn the keyboard and increase typing speed in this class to be offered from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m., Wednesdays, March 3 through April 28, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. No registration necessary, ongoing. Information, www.hplct.org.

Word 2007 Basics Create new or edit existing documents, enter and format text, check spelling and grammar, cut and paste, save to a disk, print and more in this class on Word 2003 Basics to be offered Wednesdays, 7 to 8 p.m., March 3 through April 21, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration ends on the first day of class and can be done in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course.

Powerpoint 2003 Basics Create an electronic slide show presentation at this class offered from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, March 3 to 17, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, Dwight Branch, 7 New Park Avenue, Hartford. Free. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-7460. Registration ends on the first day of class.

On-line JobsLearn how to look for jobs on-line at this class to be offered from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, March 3 through April 28, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, Blue Hills Branch, 649 Blue Hills Avenue, Hartford. Use library resources and staff knowledge to find advertised openings, create a resume and apply for jobs on-line. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-7420. Registration ends on the first day of class.

Resume Basics Learn how to write a resume that will get an interview at this class from 1 to 2:30 p.m., March 3, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Presented by an expert from the CT Department of Labor. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295.

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Problem Gambling Tunxis Community College invites the community to free screenings to help identify possible gambling problems from noon to 1 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m., March 4, 2010, in the Administration Building corridor. The screenings will provide information for those who are concerned they or a family member may need help. Participants may meet privately with a counselor. For information or in the event of inclement weather, call 860-255-3548. Tunxis is located at routes 6 and 177 in Farmington.

Sculpture Exhibit The University of New Haven Seton Art Gallery and the Visual and Performing Arts Department present "Turning Wheel," a solo exhibition by sculptor Susan Clinard. In working with clay and carving wood, Clinard draws on and layers nature's puzzles with both personal and political themes of inherent emotion. The exhibit runs from March 4 to April 1 with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m., March 11, 2010. The gallery is open from 1 to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and from noon to 3 p.m., Saturday,. Free, public invited. Information, www.newhaven/edu/18391.

Access 2007 Basics Create a basic database, add, edit and delete tables and fields, filter and sort records and more in this free class offered from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursdays, March 4 to 25, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course and registration ends on the first day of class.

Computer Basics Computer Basics: Nice and Easy, will be offered from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., Thursdays, March 4 to 25, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Beginners will learn the basics, including parts of the computer, the computer desktop and mouse and are introduced to word processing and the Internet. Slow-paced instruction in a relaxed environment. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course and registration ends on the first day of class.

Learn to Type Beginners can learn the keyboard and increase typing speed in this class to be offered from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Thursdays, March 4 through April 29, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. No registration necessary, ongoing. Information, www.hplct.org.

Internet Basics learn to navigate website, search for information and interact on line with this Internet Basics Class to be offered free from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursdays, March 4 through 18, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, Albany Branch, 1250 Albany Avenue, Hartford. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-7380. Plan to attend all classes in this course and registration ends on the first day of class.

Career Voyages What is it like to work as a forensic scientist? Watch an on-line video to find information about this career and others and then do further research with the help of the librarian. Offered free on Thursdays from 4 to 5 p.m., March 4 and 11, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, Albany Branch, 1250 Albany Avenue, Hartford. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-7380.

Homeschool Day The Children's Museum, 950 Trout Brook Road, West Hartford, will hold Homeschool Day from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 4, 2010. Enhance children's educational experiences with one or more of the classroom programs or science dome planetarium presentations, hands-on exhibits, network with other homeschool parents. The workshops and planetarium shows are appropriate for children ages five to 13 years old. The cost varies with programs selected. Advance registration required; call 860-231-2830, ext. 44 or www.TheChildrensMuseumCT.org.

Nature and the Environment The University of Connecticut Edwin Way Teale Lecture Series on Nature and the Environment will be held at 4 p.m., March 4, 2010, at the Thomas J. Dodd Research Center, on the Storrs campus. Free. From manufactured snow for tourists in Atlanta to trillions of gallons of water flushed down the toilet each year, Dr. Robert Glennon reveals the heady extravaganza and everyday inefficiencies that are sucking the nation dry. Glennon is a professor of law and public policy at the University of Arizona and the author of man articles and books including “Water Follies: Groundwater Pumping and the Fate of American’s Fresh Waters.” Public welcome. Information, 860-486-4500 or visit http://doddcenter.uconn./edu/events/teale/teale/htm.

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Ledyard Historical Society The Ledyard Historical Society will hold its Winter Meeting at 7:30 p.m., March 5, 2010, at the Ledyard Congregational Church Fellowship Hall, Route 117, Ledyard Center. Patricia Schaeffer, author of "A Useful Friend: A Companion to the Joshua Hempstead Diary 1711-1758," will present a program about the geographical world of Hempstead. Where did he travel, work, trade and how did New London connect with the wider world? Books will be available for purchase. Information, www.ledyardhistory.org. Free, public invited.

Internet Basics Learn to navigate website, search for information and interact on line with this Internet Basics Class to be offered free from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Fridays, March 5 through 19, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, Goodwin Branch, 460 New Britain Avenue, Hartford. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-7480. Plan to attend all classes in this course and registration ends on the first day of class.

Lenten Fish Fry A Lenten Fish Fry will be held from 4:30 to 7 p.m., March 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2010, at the Church of the Holy Family, 185 Church Street, Hebron. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for children under 10 and the menu includes fresh fried or baked fish, deep-fried french fries, cole slaw, dessert and a choice of two dinners for children including macaroni and cheese. Take-out orders available. Stations of the Cross will follow upstairs at 7:30 p.m.. Proceeds benefit the church's elevator fund.

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FOCUS Fundraiser The 10th anniversary fundraiser for FOCUS, an alternative learning center for children, adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders, anxiety problems and learning or processing problems. It will be held from 7 to 9 p.m., March 6, 2010, at LaTrattoria, Route 44, Canton. Admission is $10 and includes folk and bluegrass music group "Another One Night Stand." Information, www.focusalternative.org, 860-693-8809.

Here and Now at ArtSpace Five artists: Mary Anne McCarthy, Andrew Gonzales, Cara DeAngelis, Kathy Pelkey and Miguel Carter-Fisher consider subjects and styles from different times and places at a show, Here and Now, from 7 to 10 p.m., March 6, 2010, at ArtSpace, 555 Asylum Avenue, Hartford. Free. Information, 860-502-5671.

Conversations with a Lama Conversations with a Lama - Celebrate Tibetan culture, learn about the Tibetan environment at a program from noon to 5 p.m., March 6, 2010, at the Philip Johnson Alca Ball House, 523 Oenoke Ridge Road, New Canaan. Sponsored by the U.S. Tibet Committee, the program will feature Lama Pema Wangdak who will speak about Tibet and his schools with handicrafts, photos and more in display and available for purchase. Admission is $20, $15 for students and senior citizens. Information, 203-972-0819.

Excel Basics Create and work with workbooks and worksheets, enter and manipulate data, use and enter formulas, apply formatting in the Excel Basics 2007 Class to be offered Saturdays from 3 to 5 p.m., March 6 through 27, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course and registration ends on the first day of class.

Word 2007 Basics Create new or edit existing documents, enter and format text, check spelling and grammar, cut and paste, save to a disk, print and more in this class on Word 2003 Basics to be offered Saturdays, 1:45 to 2:45 p.m., March 6 through April 24, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration ends on the first day of class and can be done in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295. Plan to attend all classes in this course.

Downtown Book Club Join friends and neighbors to discuss "Bold Spirit: Helga Estaby's Forgotten Walk Across Victorian America" by Linda Lawrence Hunt, at a meeting of the Downtown Book Club, from 2 to 3:20 p.m., March 6, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. The book provides a perspective on hard financial times and risk-taking. Copies of the book may be borrowed from the library. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

Autism Planning Meeting If you are a parent concerned about what will happen to your child with autism in the future, come to a planning meeting of the All Seasons Academy autism campus at 2 p.m., March 6, 2010, at the HARC Offices, third floor, 900 Asylum Avenue, Hartford. Help create an ideal place where future adult children with autism can learn and grow in a safe, respectful, productive environment. Information and to RSVP to the meeting, contact autismcampus@gmail.com or call 860-646-8489, 860-263-8313.

Bingo Night Bingo Night to benefit the Terryville High School 2010 Alcohol and Drug-Free After graduation Party, will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., March 6, 2010, at the school, 33 North Harwinton Avenue, Terryville. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $3 and games are $1 each. Information, 860-589-2675.

Gown Gala Griswold High School Project Safe Graduation will host a Gown Gala from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 6, 2010, at the school, 163 Mathewson Street, Jewett City. Beautiful dresses for a prom, promotional dance or special occasion have been donated by the community and are for sale for just $20 each. Proceeds will benefit the drug-and-alcohol-free graduation party for Griswold High School students.

Darien Antiques Show The Darien Antiques Show brings together more than 30 antique dealers from around New England for a varied selection of fine 17th through 19th-century antiques, art and jewelry under one roof. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 6, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 7, 2010, at the First Congregational Church, 14 Brookside Road, Darien. A preview party benefit will be held March 5. Admission at the door is $10, $8 with discount and advanced purchase. There will be homemade sandwiches, salads, soups and treats in the cafe. Proceeds benefit A Better Chance - Darien as well as Fairfield County social service charities. Information, www.darienantiquesshow.org, 203-655-0491.

Making Bone Tools Ancient Technologies - Making Bone Tools, will be presented from noon to 4 p.m., March 6, 2010, at the CT Museum of Natural History on the campus of the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Advance registration required; $40, $30 for museum members. Includes materials fee for adults and children ages eight and older accompanied by an adult. Explore the ancient art of making bone tools with Jeff Kalin, a consultant to museum curators and archaeologists, who has 25 years of experience in the analysis of ancient artifacts and as a producer of museum-quality reproductions. Information, http://www.cac.uconn.edu/mnhcurrentcalendar.html, 860-486-4460.

Benefit Bowling The annual Bowl-2-Benefit the Umbrella and Domestic Violence Services of Greater New Haven will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., March 6, 2010, at AMF Lanes in Milford. Proceeds benefit BGHS' programs which provides safe emergency shelter, crisis counseling, advocacy and other services for individuals and children affected by domestic violence. Participants raise money by forming teams and collecting pledges. or by becoming a sponsor or lane sponsor. For information, 203-726-2601, ext. 321, or dsouldby@bghealth.org.

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Benefit Breakfast The Manchester Brotherhood in Action will host a Community Breakfast from 9 a.m. to noon, March 7, 2010, at the Masonic Temple in Manchester. Donation is $5 for adults and $3 for children , at the door. Proceeds benefit Rosa Doane, age 5, and Liana Simmons, age 4, who are undergoing treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Stom date is march 16. Tickets are also available from any brotherhood member. Information, www.brotherhoodinaction.blogspot.com.

Historical Lecture A lecture on John Denison Crocker: Norwich's Renaissance Man will be presented at 3 p.m., March 7, 2010, at the Slater Museum, 108 Crescent Street, Norwich. Admission is $15 and $12 for museum members. Crocker was a Norwich artist whose paintings document the town'/s late 19th-century golden age, some which depict captains of the city's industrial revolution. Tickets may be purchased by phone, at 860-425-5547, on-line at www.nfafoundation.org, or at the door.

Marilyn Horne Master Class Watch as the world renowned mezzo soprano coaches young singers from the Hartt School, UConn Opera and Yale Opera, sharing her wisdom and enabling them to sharpen their performance skills. The Master Class will be held at 3 p.m., March 7, 2010, in Hoffman Auditorium St. Joseph College, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford. Admission is $37.50 and $18 for students. Order tickets on-line at tickets@sjc.edu or call 860-231-5555.

Baby Grand Jazz The Baby Grand Jazz Series at the Hartford Public Library is a free event which begins March 7, 2010, at the library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. The performances are from 3 to 4 p.m. and include Taino Pacheco, March 7; David Eberly, March 14; Gregg Kallor, March 21; and Jen Allen, March 28. Information, www.hplct.org.

Anthropology of Drug Use The Anthropology of Drug Use: An 85-Year History with Dr. Merrill Singer, Department of Anthropology at the University of Connecticut, will be presented at 3 p.m., March 7, 2010, in the Biology/Physics Building, Room 130. No registration needed. Free for adults and children over 12 accompanied by an adult. Information, http://www.cac.uconn.edu/mnhcurrentcalendar.html, 860-486-4460.

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Bessy Reyna A Poetry Reading by poet and activist Bessy Reyna to celebrate Women's History Month and International Women's Day at St. Joseph College, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, will be held from 4 to 6 p.m., March 8, 2010, in the Crystal Room at Mercy Hall. Admission is free. Information, 860-231-5387.

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Zoo Tots This program is for children ages 18 months to three years accompanied by an adult, and includes stories, activities, crafts and live animals. It will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., March 9 and 10, 2010, at Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport and is $10 for zoo members and one child and $15 for non-members and one child. Register at 203-394-6563.

Lenten Yoga Lenten Yoga will be held at 9 a.m. or 7 p.m., March 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2010, at the Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford. The offering is $70 for the four sessions or $20 per session. The event will be led by Cheryl Jones-Reardon. Register at www.holyfamilyretreat.org or send name, address and offering to HFPRC, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford, CT 06107. Information, www.holyfamilyretreat.org, 860-521-0440.

Paying for College Learn ways to save for college including 529 plans, Coverdell Educational Savings Accounts and custodial accounts under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act and the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act. The program will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., March 9, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street and is free. Information, www.hplct.org. Register in person, online at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6295.

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Lunchtime Concerts Wednesday Lenten Lunchtime Concerts continue at noon, March 10, 2010, at First Congregational Church, 1009 Main Street, Branford. Free-will donation. The organ concert will be followed by soup and salad at 1 p.m. On March 10, Noan Horn, a master of music student at the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, will perform. Information, 203-488-7201.

Law on Display The University of New Haven's Tagliatela College of Engineering will host a public lecture "Law on Display: The Digital Transformation of Legal Persuasion and Judgment," with authors Neal Feigenson and Christina Spiesel on their recent book which examines how the legal practice moved from a largely words only environment to one more dependent one and driven by images. It will be offered from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m., March 10, 2010, at the Schumann Auditorium, Room B120-, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven. Free. Public invited. Information, 203-932-7144.

Day or Evening Retreat Meister Eckhart, Dominican theologian and mystic of the 14th century, preached about the simplicity of God, the sacredness of creation and the nobility of human nature. This presentation, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 6 to 9 p.m., March 10, 2010, will focus on these major themes and his writings. It will be held at the Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford, and the cost is $30 including lunch or dinner. Register at www.holyfamilyretreat.org or send name, address and offering to HFPRC, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford, CT 06107. Information, www.holyfamilyretreat.org, 860-521-0440.

Colon Cancer Understanding Cancer: Colon Cancer will be presented at 6 p.m., March 10, 2010, at Yale New Haven Hospital,. East Pavilion Cafeteria, 20 York St., New Haven and is free. Dr. Edward Chu, chief of medical oncology and deputy director of Yale Cancer Center Gastrointestinal Cancers Program, talks about treatment options for color cancer. A light supper provided. Validated parking available in the Air Rights Garage. Information, www.yalecancercenter.org, 203-700-6543.

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Irish Music A Celebration of Irish Music will be held at 7 p.m., March 12, 2010, at West Avon Congregational Church, 280 Country Club Road, Avon. Free-will offering. The program will feature Brian Conway, Brendan Dolan and Julee Glaub. Conway is a leading exponent of the highly ornamented Sligo fiddling style. A festive reception will follow. Information, www.westavonchurch.org, 860-673-3996.

Dr. Henry C. Lee A gathering of friends and supporters honoring Dr. Henry C. Lee with the inaugural of the Dr. Henry C. Lee Award and recognizing the important work of Jane Doe No More, will be held March 12, 2010, at the Trumbull Marriott, 180 Hawley Lane, Trumbull. The VIP reception is at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner. Admission is $100. Information, www.janedoenomore.org, 203-592-2009.

Hard Hat Challenge At the Hard Hat Challenge, construct and race a bobsled to the finish, design a device to corral a run-away critter, stretch inventing muscles during an evening of engineering challenges from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., March 12, 2010, at The Children's Museum, 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford. Admission is $8 per person for members, $9 for non-members. Pre-registration requested, call 860-231-2830, ext. 44 or events@thechildrensmuseumct.org. Information, www.TheChildrensMuseumCT.org.

True Colors Institute The True Colors Inclusive Spiritual Institute is a free, privately financed, independent, two-day program that will address issues of spirituality form an open and affirming standpoint. It will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 12 and 13, 2010, adjacent to the annual True Colors Conference at the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Lunch available for purchase on a first-come basis. Information, www.ourtruecolors.org, 860-232-0050, ext. 301.

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Silent Auction/Cocktail Reception Abby's All Stars third annual Silent Auction and Cocktail Reception will be held from 7 to 11 p.m., March 13, 2010, at Tashua Knolls Country Club, 40 Tashua Knolls Lane, Trumbull. Admission is $50 per person n advance, $60 per person at the door. Admission includes wine and beer bar, hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, dessert and non-alcoholic drinks. Entertainment by Twisted Resistor. Information, 203-981-3685, www.abbyallstars.org.

Pancake Breakfast The Knight of Columbus Council 11835 is hosting a Hebron Maple Festival/Pancake Breafast from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m., march 13, 2010, at the Church of the Holy Family hall, 185 Church Street, Hebron. This fundraising event supports projects of the council and the menu includes pancakes, French toast, sausage, three kinds of muffins, juice, milk and coffee for $7 for adults, $5 for children under 12. Served with real maple syrup. Take-out available. Informatin, 860-228-1618.

Bottle and Food Drive Winsted Cub Scout Pack 27 is holding a Bottle and Food Drive from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 13, 2010, at the Stop & Shop, 200 New Hartford Road, Winsted. Food collected will be donated to the United Way and proceeds from the bottle drive will help support Pack 37. Also available for purchase are Butter Braid Pastries which will be deliver ed at the end of March. Information, 860-601-2031.

Corned Beef Dinner The annual Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner will be served from 4 to 7 p.m., March 13, 2010 at United Methodist Church of Branford, 811 East Main Street, Branford. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10. The menu includes corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, bread and butter, beverage and dessert. Tickets will be available at the door or call 203-589-9659 or 203-488-0549. Reservations and advanced tickets are advised.

Photography Exhibit Artwell Gallery, 19 Water Street, Torrington, will hold a photography exhibition called "An Exquisite Sense of Light." Opening is from 6 to 8 p.m., March 13, 2010. This is a mix of photographs inspired by different forms of light from Artwell members. Opening is free and open to the public. The show runs until April and can be viewed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Information, www.artwellgallery.org, 860-482-5122.

Women Writers Series Staged readings of brand new plays will be offered at 6:30 p.m., March 13, 2010, in the Hoffman Auditorium at St. Joseph College, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, as part of Women's History Month and Capital Classics Theater. Free, public invited. Processional actors will read two new plays by Connecticut women authors Laura Sheehan and Jeanne Zaino. A moderated discussion will follow. Light refreshments. Information, 860-231-5334.

Corned Beef Dinner A Corned Beef Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m., March 13, 2010, at Copper Hill United Methodist Church, Copper Hill Road, East Granby. Adults are $12 and children under 12 are $6 with preschoolers free. The menu includes corned beef, potatoes, cabbage and carrots, rolls and butter, coffee, tea, milk, lemonade and a choice of homemade cakes. Reservations required, call 860-668-1031.

Corned Beef Supper A Corned Beef Supper will be served from 5 to 6:30 p.m., March 13, 2010, at Rockville United Methodist Church, 142 Grove Street, corner of routes 30 and 31, Rockville. The menu includes corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, vegetables, Irish soda bread and Grasshopper Pie for dessert. Adults are $10, children ages six to 12 are $5 with those five and under free. Reservations, call 860-872-6562; walk-ins welcome.

Walk-a-Thon for Haiti A Walk-a-Thon for Haiti will be held at 11 a.m., March 13, 2010, at Beechwood residential Community Park, Route 81, Killingworth. Coffee and donuts will be served at the clubhouse following the walk. Proceeds will benefit Doctors Without Borders.

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Founders' Day Luncheon The New Haven Club of National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs will hold its annual Founders' Day Luncheon from 2 to 4 p.m., March 14, 2010, at Fantasia, Washington Avenue, North Haven. Tickets are $50. Proceeds from the event benefit scholarships and community service projects for the Greater New Haven community. The luncheon will celebrate local professional award recipient, community service award recipient, and the prestigious Sojourner Truth award recipient. Information, www.NANBPWC.com, 203-668-4227.

Tee-Off Lunch The Executive Women's Golf Association of Fairfield County will host its annual Spring Invitation Lunch from noon to 4 p.m., March 14, 2010, at the Mill River Country Club, 4567 Main Street, Stratford. There will be a gourmet lunch, vendors with products ranging from jewelry and cosmetics to apparel, prizes, games, entertainment and the opportunity for women golfers of all abilities to see what the EWGA can offer them in after-work leagues, clinics, competitive events, social and business networking and more. Proceeds support the LPGA/USGA Girls Golf Program of Fairfield County. You do not need to be a member to attend. Early bird price is $40 and after February 20, the price is $50. Information or to register, go to www.ewgafiarifield.com, information only at 203-803-4620.

`Messiah' Sing-a-Long Handel's "Messiah" Sing-a-Long Parts II and III will be performed at 4 p.m., March 14, 2010, at the Shrine of St. Anne, 515 South Main Street, Waterbury. There is a $20 free-will offering. The program will be accompanied by the ensemble Fanfare Consort, performing on historically accurate instruments. The audience may participate in choral selections of simple enjoy the music. A pasta dinner will follow in the church hall with proceeds to benefit the Pro-Life Ministry; adults $10, ages six to 12 $5, under five, free. Advance tickets are available at the shrine office at 203-756-4439 or e-mail shrineprograms@comcast.net.

Baby Grand Jazz The Baby Grand Jazz Series at the Hartford Public Library is a free event which begins March 7, 2010, at the library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. The performances are from 3 to 4 p.m. and include David Eberly, March 14; Gregg Kallor, March 21; and Jen Allen, March 28. Information, www.hplct.org.

Choir Festival The 40th Choir Festival featuring church choirs from the Rockville area, will be held at 7:30 p.m., March 14, 2010, at the Union Congregational Church, 3 Elm Street, Rockville. This is a concert of sacred music and the public is welcome. Free-will offering. Information, 860-871-6945.

Behind the Scenes MysteryQuest - Behind the Scenes of The History Channel's "The Death of Hitler," will be presented at 3 p.m., March 14, 2010, in Room 130, in the Biology and Physics Building on the campus of the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Free for adults and children over 10, accompanied by an adult. Dr. Nicholas Bellantoni, state archaeologist, and Dr. Linda Strausbaugh of UConn, will discuss their work investigating the death of Adolph Hitler for the History Channel. What they discovered deepened the mystery of Hitler's final moments. Information, www.cac.uconn.edu.mnhcurrentcalendar.html, 860-486-5690.

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Real Art Ways Trip A trip to Real Art Ways to see the film "Shall We Dance" with Fred Astaire and Judy Garland, is being sponsored by the Elmwood Senior Center, from 12:20 to 4:30 p.m., March 15, 2010. Members are $14 and non-members $16. Before the film, a light lunch of tea sandwiches, fruit, brownies/cookies and tea or coffee will be served. Following the film, there will be a speaker-led discussion on the film. Information, registration call 860-561-8180.

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CACLD Lectures for Parents The CT Association for Children and Adults with learning Disabilities is hosting a series of free lectures for parents called "Let's Talk: My Child Has a learning Disability. What Should I Do?" Discover the opportunities a child has as Rena Schine, Ph.D., shares her knowledge about what the law and school systems have to offer. The first lecture is "Know the Law: What do the Federal and State Laws Mandate?" and will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon, Mrch 16, 2010, at 25 Van Zant Street, Suite 15-5, East Norwalk. The second, "Know the School: How Can I Be Sure the School is Meeting My Child's Needs," will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon, March 23. Free, advanced registration required, call 203-838-5010, www.cacld.org.

Bolivian Author to Speak Bolivian author Marie Franco Perrin will lecture on the content and photography in her three books at 7 p.m., March 16, 2010, in the Mancheski Executive Seminar Room, Lender School of Business Center, Quinnipiac University, 275 Mt. Carmel Avenue, Hamden. Free. Her three books explore the Bolivian culture through photography. Information, 203-582-8652, www.quinnipiac.edu.

Balancing Stress Learn about relaxation response and tension reduction techniques to help counter the negative stresses in daily life at this class from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., March 16, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. Free. Increase positive energy as you de-stress. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

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Corned Beef Dinner The New Britain Irish Social Club will host a Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner from 5 to 7 p.m., March 17, 2010, at 39 South Street, New Britain. Guiness and Smithwicks on tap. Adult party downstairs with Dave Quick entertaining. Cost is $10.

Tip-a-Teacher The Old Saybrook High School PTO will hold a Tip-a-Teacher event from 5 to 8 p.m., March 17, 2010, at the Otter Cove Restaurant, 99 Essex Road, Old Saybrook. Reservations accepted, mention Tip-a-Teacher, 860-388-4836, www.ottercoverestaurant.com.

Corned Beef Dinner A Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 0.m., March 17, 2010, at Middlesex Health Care Center, 100 Randolph Road, Middletown. Donation is $7. Reserve by March 12 at 860-344-0353, ext. 141.

St. Patrick's Day Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the Worthington Trio at the Holy Family's music ministry at 6 p.m., March 17, 2010, at the Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford. Admission is $60 per person and includes an evening of good music, good food and good spirits. The event includes traditional Irish music, singing and a buffet dinner. Register at www.holyfamilyretreat.org, or send a check and attendee names to HFPRC, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford, CT 06107.

Bird Walk A St. Patrick’s Day Bird Walk with Gina Nichol will be held at 8 a.m., March 17, 2010, at Hammonasset State Park, Route 1, Madison. Sponsored by Sunrise Birding, the walk is free but advance registration is required and space is limited. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars, water and a spotting scope. Information, gina@sunrisebirding.com or www.sunrisebirding.com.

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Women's History Month Join the Fairfield Museum and History Center and the Fairfield League of Women Voters to honor the struggle for full citizenship by women in the 1900s. The film, "Iron Jawed Angels, featuring Hilary Swank and Angelica Huston, tells the story of defiant young activists who take the women's suffrage movement and the country by storm, putting their lives at risk to help American women win the right to vote. It will be shown at 7 p.m., March 18, and at 2 p.m., March 21, 2010, at the museum, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield. Free, advance registration is required, call 203-259-1598, www.fairfieldhs.org.

Ziti Dinner Watertown High School's First Robotics Team 237 will host a fundraising Ziti Dinner from 5 to 8 p.m., March 18, 2010, at th Union Congregational Church, 161 Buckingham Street, Watertown. Adults are $8, senior citizens and children ages four to 10 are $5 with children three and under free. Information, www.team237..com, 203-233-7732.

Organ Recital Concert organist Dame Gillian Weir will perform an inaugural recital on the newly restored 1929 Moller Pipe Organ at Nelson Place at Elim Park Place, 150 Cook Hill Road, Cheshire, at 7:30 p.m., March 18, 2010. Admission is $10 per person, $15 per couple. This is her only scheduled New England performance with a repertoire ranging from Renaissance to contemporary. Information, www.elimpark.org, 203-232-4852.

Pasta Fundraiser The South Windsor High School Robotics Team will hold a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser from 6 to 9 p.m., March 18, 2010, at the school, to benefit the robotics team. The team is raising money for the regional competition in Hartford April 1 to 3 and to travel to the National Competition in Atlanta in April. Tickets are $10 at the door, $8 in advance, $25 for an immediate family. There will also be a silent auction.

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Irish. Appalachian Music Little Windows creates a mix of Appalachian and Irsh music and traditionally-based originals with a special focus on unaccompanied ballads. They will perform at 8 p.m., March 19, 2010, at the Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury. The concert is free but seating is limited. Register at 860-658-7663, or at www.simsburylibrary,info, click on Calendar.

Dodgeball Tournament Kennedy DECA Charity Dodgeball Tournament will be played at 6 p.m., March 19, 2010, at Kennedy High School, 422 Highland Avenue, Waterbury. General admission is $5. Team of both students and faculty will play and proceeds benefit various charities. Information, 203-574-8153.

Pasta Dinner A Pasta Dinner to benefit Thomaston Firefighter and Combat Veteran Michael DeMatteo, 32, and his 10-year-old daughter Crystal, will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., March 19, 2010, at the Thomaston Fire Station, 245 South Main Street, Thomaston. Michael's wife Erisa died in a tragic home accident and the family needs financial help. Tickets are $10 for for adults and $5 for those under 12. Donations may be sent to the fire house and checks can be made out to Michael DeMatteo, c/o Thomaston Fire department. Tickets may be picked up at the fire station on Monday nights or purchased from any firemen.

Crittercam Inventor Spend an evening with Crittercam inventor Greg Marshall at 7:30 p.m., March 19, 2010, at the Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London. Through video and stories, Marshall will share his view of the world through the Crittercam, a device he invented in the 1980s that has revolutionized marine biology while producing glimpses into the animal world. Tickets are $24, $20 for Mystic Aquarium members, VIP tickets are $54 which includes admission to preschool reception with Marshall. Information, tickets, 860-444-7373, ext. 1.

Antique Show The 48th annual Antique Show will be held from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., March 19, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 20, 2010, at the Second Congregational Church, 385 Main Street, Manchester. Approximately 40 dealers from around New England will display their wares including dolls, coins, jewelry, furniture, artwork, pottery, ceramics, porcelain, toys, books and more. Lunch available both days and dinner on Friday night. Admission is $5 per person.

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Medium's Day The Church of Infinite Spirit, 80 Walsh Avenue (Masonic Lodge), Newington, will host a Medium's Day from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., March 20, 2010. The event features 20-minute personalized readings by Spiritualist Mediums. The cost is $20 per reading. Complimentary Laying-on-of-Hands will be provided. Information, www.NewingtonSpiritualistChurch.org, 860-635-6396.

Health Fair A free Community Health Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 20, 2010, at Pentecostal Tabernacle Apostolic Church, 249 Newfield Avenue, Hartford. Offered will be blood pressure, blood sugar, prostate, cholesterol and STD and HIV screenings, mammograms and more. A seminar on hearth health is at 11:30 a.m. and one on breast cancer prevention will be held at 1 p.m.

Make a Wish Fundraiser A fundraiser to benefit the AMake a Wish Foundation will be held from 7 p.m. to midnight, March 20, 2010, at the Moose Family Center, 44 Dodge Avenue, Stratford. Admission is $12 and the event features live music, door prizes and more. Infromation, 203-610-7881.

A Map and a Compass Finding Your Way with a Map and Compass will be offered at 9 a.m., March 20, 2010, at Connecticut College, Arboretum Garage, 46 Gallows Lane, New London. Free but registration required. Beveryl Chomiak, lecturer in physics and environmental science, will lead an exploration of the arboretum navigating off the trails with a map and compass. To register, call 860-439-5020.

Book/Bake Sale A Used Book and Bake Sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 20, 2010, at the First Church of Christ, 61 Main Street, Unionville. Homemade baked goods as well as used books in good condition will be featured for sale.

Pushups for Charity This nationwide movement raises money for the Wounded Warrior Project. Each pushup raises money ofr an American soldier who has been injured. Sponsors pledge 50 cents or $1 per pushup and the participants do as many as they can in 90 seconds. It will be held at 10:30 a.m., March 20, 2010, at No Limit health and Fitness, 1120 Federal Road, Brookfield. Information, 203-775-5128, www.PushupsforCharityCT.com.

After Childhood Cancer "Ready, Set, Go...The Journey Forward After Childhood Cancer," a program sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the CT Challenge, is a program for children and teens who are childhood cancer survivors and their families. It will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., March 20, 2010, at the Savin Rock Museum & Learning Center, 6 Rock Street, West Haven. In addition to speakers, the event features Hope Douglas, founder and president of Wind Over Wings, and her golden eagle, as well as other rescued birds. A complimentary lunch will be served and each child survivor will receive a beach towel and beach balls, courtesy of Life is Good. Free. Information, 203-665-1417, www.ctchallenge.org/readysetgo.

Art Auction An Art Auction featuring all types of media will be held March 20, 2010, at the Rietdyke Senior Center, 211 Nichols Road, Wolcott. Preview is at 6:30 p.m., auction begins at 7:30 p.m. and admission is $10. Proceeds benefit scholarships and community projects. Refreshments will be served. Information, 203-879-3733.

Flea Market St. Stephen Church, 400 Ridge Road, Hamden, will hold a Flea Market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., March 20, 2010, at the church. Vendors needed. Rain or shine. There will also be a bake sale. To rent space, e-mail SSCRE@sbcglobal.net.

Ukrainian Easter Festival A Ukrainian Easter Festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 20, 2010, at St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 54 Winter Street, behind Newbrite Plaza, New Britain. Free parking behind the church. The event will feature Easter breads, Easter eggs (pysanky), egg decorating supplies, Ukrainian gifts, home-baked items, rag sale, raffle, and traditional Ukrainian foods. Public invited. No admission charge.

Home and Business Showcase The 18th Annual Home and Business Showcase and Taste of Newington will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 20, 2010, at Newington High School, 605 Willard Avenue, Newington. Admission is $3. Sponsored by the Newington Chamber of Commerce, the event features many booths, food, Child ID service, door prizes, clowns and more. Information, www.newingtonchamber.com.

Swedish Pancake BreakfastA Swedish Pancake Breakfast and Scandinavian Bake Sale will be held from 8:30 to 10 a.m., March 20, 2010, at Pilgrim Covenant Church, routes 10 and 202 on the Massachusetts/ Connecticut line. Donation for breakfast. Proceeds benefit the Youth Mission Trip in 2011.

Shawl Knitting Retreat Sr. Cathleen Murtha will lead knitters through a day of knitting, prayer, reflection and conversation from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 20, 2010, at the Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford. Bring three skeins of Lionbrand Homespun and a set of size 11 or 13 knitting needles. New knitters welcome. The $40 fee includes lunch. Register at www.holyfamilyretreat.org or send a check and attendee names to HFRC, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford, CT 06107.

Jana Stanfield in Concert Calling herself the Queen of Heavy mental, Jana Stanfield describes her music as "psychotherapy you can dance to." She will perform at 8 p.m., March 20, 2010, at the United Methodist Church, 49 Weston Road, Westport. Admission is $20 and are available in advance with remaining tickets at the door. Mail ticket requests to 49 Weston Road, Westport, CT 06880 with checks made out to UMC-Jana Concert and return address information.

Jimmy Sturr Orchestra Eighteen Grammy Award winner Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra performing polkas, jazz and more, will be at Plainville High School, 47 Robert Holcomb Way, Plainville, at 7 p.m., March 20, 2010. Admission is $15 in advance and $20 at the door and proceeds benefit the Plainville High School Band. Information and tickets, www.plainvilleschools.org, 860-793-3220, ext. 244.

Featherfest 2010 The Connecticut Parrot Society is hosting its third annual Featherfest from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 20, 2010, at the Elks Club, 44 Maynard Street, Middletown. Admission is $5 with those under 10 free. Public invited. There will be speakers, "Ask the Vet" tables, vendors, a teacup auction, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, bird displays and more. Proceeds benefit the club's outreach.education and adoption programs. Information, www.connecticutparrrotsociety.org, 860-621-5790.

Online Degree Programs A representative from a popular on-line university will be available at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, from 11 a.m. to noon March 20, 2010, to answer questions about pursuing an education on-line. Registration is requested on-line at www.hplct.org, in person or by calling 860-695-6295.

Prayer Conference A prayer conference "Praying Without Ceasing: Reclaiming Our Spiritual Roots," will be held form 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 20, 2010, at First Congregational Church of Branford, 1009 Main Street, Branford. Admission is $10 and includes light refreshments and lunch. Advance registration deadline is March 14. For brochure, www.firstcongregationalbranford.org. Keynote speaker is Armand Proulx.

Black Holes A special showing of "Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity," a full-dome production of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, will be shown from 7 to 9 p.m., March 20, 2010, at The Children's Museum, 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford. Admission is $7 per person for members and $8 per person for non-members. There will also be games, crafts and telescopes if the skies are clear. Information, 860-231-2830, ext. 44; www.TheChildrensMuseumCT.org.

Gaelic and Garlic Gaelic and Garlic Pasta Feast and Basket Bazaar will be held March 20, 2010, at St. Patrick-St. Anthony Church, 285 Church Street, Hartford. Seatings are from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. or from 5 to 7 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by the Irish Step-Dancers of the Griffith Academy and others. Adults are $12 and children under 12 are $6 and are available by calling 860-313-0897. Proceeds benefit Catherine's Place, House of Bread and the Ladies' Guild Scholarship Fund. Free parking in the Saints parking lot across from the Urban Center.

Snoopy Fair The Haddam Cooperative Nursery School will host a Snoopy Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 20, 2010, at 95 Little City Road, Higganum. Free admission. The theme is "Snoopy Goes West" and everyone is invited to come dressed in a favorite cowboy and cowgirl outfit. Events planned are children's games with ticket purchases for games for a small fee, vendors and booths, raffle prizes, food. Public welcome. Information, 8600-345-3983.

18th Century Medicine and Dentistry Eighteenth Century Medicine and Dentistry: A Visit to the Hezekiah Chaffee House, will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, March 20, 2010, in Windsor, sponsored by the Ct Museum of natural History. Advance registration required; $20, $15 for museum members. Step back into the 18th century with country doctor Hezekiah Chaffee and discover how he trained for and practiced his profession 250 years ago. Information and to register, 860-48604460, www.mnh.uconn.edu.

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Train Show The Boy Scouts of Crew 33 in Derby will hold a Train Show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 21, 2010, at Warsaw Park, Route 243, Pulaski Highway, Ansonia. The show will feature Valley HO and Valley N operating layouts and dealers from New England area. Great food. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for senior citizens and children, those under 3 free. Family admission - two adults and two children - is $12. Information, 203-278-3648, 203-732-5346 or BJHRR@aol.com.

Cake Contest The Little Theatre of Manchester will host LTM Takes the Cake at 1 p.m., March 21, 2010, at Cheney Hall, 177 Hartford Road, Manchester. Admission is $15. Watch cakes being decorated and then get a chance to taste each one and vote for the best tasting cake in Connecticut. Celebritey judges will choose the best decorated cake. Amateur and professional bakers and decorators are still being sought. Deadline is March 15. All attendees get a glass of bubbly, a fork and ballot. Information, www.cheneyhall.org, 860-747-9824.

Easter Bunny Breakfast Breakfast with the Easter Bunny will be celebrated from 8 to 11:30 a.m., March 21, 2010, at the Danielson Elks Lodge, 13 Center Street, Danielson. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for those 10 and under and under 2 are free. Bring a camera. Every child who attends will receive a free book and a surprise from the Easter Bunny. Sponsored by the Little Team That Could, a Relay for Life Team. Information, 860-923-2223.

Craft Fair & Book Sale Over 40 crafters and vendors displaying handmade jewelry, clothing, candles, soaps, wood, birdhouses, florals, recycled bags and high fashion bags, Easter baskets, pet items, photography and paintings, custom greeting cards, chocolates, candy, kettle korn, pies soups, dips, jams and and honey will be featured at the annual Craft Fair and Bake Sale. It will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., March 21, 2010, at Corpus Christi School, Silas Deane highway, Wethersfield. The Easter Bunny will visit at 1 p.m. and there will be raffles and a bake sale with over 100 items. Information, www.corpuschristisch.org, 860-529-5491.

Yoga Celebration A Yoga Celebration of the Vernal Equinox, a benefit for the Twin Angel Foundation, will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., March 21, 2010, at 1 Factory Square, 37 West Center Street, Suite 209, Southington. Suggested donation is $15. A sun salutation is a gentle, meditative flow of postures and is open to beginnings and advanced yogis alike and allows participants to rest and meditate as needed. Proceeds benefit Twin Angel Foundation. Information, www.yogaatfoundationsquare.com, www.twinangelfoundation.org.

Lincoln Center Tenors Tenors from Lincoln Center will present a concert of Irish and Italian songs in the restored St. Ladislaus Church, Flax Hill Road and Soundview Avenue in Norwalk, at 4:30 p.m., March 21, 2010. Admission is $25, tax deductible. Proceeds will benefit the church. Information, www.stladislaus.com.

Celebration in Music and Dance The Calling: A Celebration in Music and Dance will be held March 21, 2010, at Danbury United Methodist Church, 5 Clapboard Ridge Road, Danbury. Concert seating begins at 3 p.m., concert begins at 3:30 p.m. Free admission with a goodwill offering. The program will feature singer and songwriter Jana Stanfield, the Moving in Grace dancers and the Sounds of Afrika drumming troupe. Mission fair begins at 2 p.m. and also follows the concert. Information, 203-929-3537.

Baby Grand Jazz The Baby Grand Jazz Series at the Hartford Public Library is a free event at the library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. The performances are from 3 to 4 p.m. and include Gregg Kallor, March 21; and Jen Allen, March 28. Information, www.hplct.org.

Pancake Breakfast The East Farmington Volunteer Fire Department will hold its 37th annual Pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m. to noon, March 21, 2010, at the station on 94 South Road. The menu features all-you-can-eat blueberry or regular pancakes, sausage, organge juice and coffee, tea or milk. Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and $4 for those under 12, at the door.

Gardasil Vaccine Gardasil Vaccine - One Less Statistic; One Less...Hoax? is the title of a program to be held at the CT Museum of Natural History on the campus of the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Free. It will be held at 3 .m., March 21, 2010, and is free for adults and children age 10 and older. Presenter Dr. Scott L. Wetstone will demonstrate how using the basic tools of epidemiology can held assess the true level of risk for any health issue and to make prudent healthcare decisions. Information, 860-486-4460, www.mnh.uconn.edu.

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Lambs of Lebanon Linda Abadjian's paintings employ a poet's gaze directed into a complex and persevering nature of the human condition. Connectied with her childhood experiences during the Lebanese Civil War, images of tragedy and horror are threaded with an enduring optimism and assertions of hope. See them from March 22 to April 30, 2010, at the Pegasus Gallery and the Niche, Middlesex Community College, 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown. The gallery is open from 5 to 8 p.m., Monday and Wednesday and from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Saturdays. A reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., March 25. Information, www.mxcc.commnet.edu, 860-343-5800.

Open Lab Ask questions, get answers, learn new computer skills and practices at this Open Lab from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., March 22, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 256 Farmington Avenue, Hartford. Free. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-7540.

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Career/Technical Fair A Career and Technical Fair will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., March 23, 2010, at Shelton High School. Over 30 schools and programs will be available. It is open to anyone interested in finding short-term training to help them enter the job market. Information, 203-922-3004.

Parenting a Defiant Child Alan Kazdin, director of Yale's Paretning Center and Child Conduct Clinic, will deliver the lecture "Parenting the Defiant Child: Scientific and Practice Perspectives," from 7 to 8 p.m., March 23, in Alumni Hall, Quinnipiac University, 275 Mt. Carmel Avenue, Hamden. Free, public welcome. Information, 203-582-8652, www.quinnipiac.edu.

Open Lab Ask questions, get answers, learn new computer skills and practices at this Open Lab from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., March 24, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library,7 New Park Avenue, Hartford. Free. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-7560.

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LGBTQI Support Group Klingberg Family Center is sponsoring the fourth LGBTQI parent-led support group meeting at 6:30 p.m., March 24, 2010, at the Klingberg Support Center, 370 Linwood Street, New Britain. Free. Families and individuals considering adoption/foster care are welcome. This is a great time to share stories and ask questions. RSVP at 860-832-5533 or lindas@klingberg.com.

Open House An Informational Open House will be held at 10 a.m., March 24, 2010, at Klingberg Family Centers, 370 Linwood Street, New Britain. Free. Those interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parents are invited to this informational open house or may call for an individual consultation, 860-832-5533, www.klingberg.org.

Spirituality Speaker Medial Mission Sister Miriam Theresa Winter, Roman Catho9lic nun, composer, musician, author and founder of the Women's Leadership Institute at Hartford Seminary where she is a professor, will speak on "Spirituality in a World of Change," at 7 p.m., March 24, 2010, in Fellowship Hall at the Sisters of St. Joseph Convent, 27 Park Road, West Hartford. Tickets are $20 each, $10 for students, and can be reserved by call 860-247-3030. Proceeds benefit the program's sponsor Jubilee House, a non-profit adult education and refugee assistance center.

Girls' Club Inspired by dolls and history, learn about a time period and make a craft or delicious food to eat at the Girls' Club, from 4:30 to 6 p.m., march 24, 2010, at the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield. Members are $10, non-members are $15 and caregivers optional and are free. Register by calling 203-259-1598; information, www.fairfieldhis.org.

Cognitive Fitness Participate in Lively Minds, a workshop designed by the New England Cognitive Center, that is a stimulating, interactive and fun approach to improving memory. Enjoy a full mental workout and learn skills to strengthen short-term and long-term memory capabilities. It will be held from 1:30 to 6 .m., March 24, 2010, at the Alzehimer's Research Center, 1261 South Main Street, Plantsville. Free. RSVP at edefrancesco@arc-ct-org, 860-628-3020.

Strategies for Parents Advocacy Strategies for Parents - a series of three evening workshops on how to become an effective advocate for your child, will be held at 7 p.m., March 24, 31 and April 7, 2010, at the Southfield Center for Development, 85 Old Kings Highway North, second floor, Darien. Free, registration required, cacld@optonline.net, 203-838-5010. Details, www.cacld.org.

The Fruit Hunters Kathy Dame, assistant director of the Connecticut College Arboretum, will lead a discussion of Adam Leith Gollner's book "The Fruit Hunters," at noon, March 24, 2010, at Connecticut College, Haines Room of Shain Library, 270 Mohegan Avenue, New London. Gollner examines the fruits we eat and explains why we eat the - scientific, economic and aesthetic reasons. Reread the book and join in this lively discussion. Free but registration suggested, 860-439-5020.

Job Fair American Career Fairs is holding a Job Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., march 24, 2010, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cromwell. The event will provide job seekers an opportunity to meet with a variety of local employers that have positions available. Positions include administrative, customer service, sales, retail and accounting. Job seekers will also have an opportunity to speak with a professional about their resume. Bring multiple copies of your resume. Information, 817-283-0878, www.americancareerfairs.com.

Counterfeit Drug Lecture The University of Hartford Yagliatela College of Engineering will host a lecture by Peter Gabriele, co-founder and technical director of ARmark Authentication Technologies on "New Pharmaceutical Anti-Counterfeiting Technology: Understanding the Details of Compliance Regulations in Anti-Counterfeiting Product Development. " He will discuss the use of physical-chemical identifiers in the pharmaceutical industry by the FDA as a counterfeiting control measures. The talk will be held form 12:15 to 1:30 p.m., march 24, 2010, at the Schuman Auditorium in Room B120, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven. Free, public invited. Information, www.newhaven.edu/8/, 1-800-DIAL-UNH.

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Elmwood Senior Trip The Elmwood Senior Center is hosting a trip to the Norwich Spa March 25, 2010. The package includes fill use of the spa facilities for the day, choice for lunch of soup, croissant sandwich of turkey, lobster salad or roast beef, dessert and coffee. Scones, tea and a wine tasting before departure. The cost is $199 for members and $209 for non-members. Call 860-561-8180 to register.

Open Lab Ask questions, get answers, learn new computer skills and practices at this Open Lab from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., March 22, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 1250 Albany Avenue, Hartford. Free. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-6284.

'Beauty and the Beast" Old Saybrook High School will present "Beauty and the Beast" at 7 p.m., March 25, 26 and 27, 2010, at the high school, 1111 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook. There will b e a meet the cast party and photo session at the 2 p.m. matinee, March 27. Tickets can be obtained at Harbor Books, 146 Main Street, Old Saybrook, 860-388-6850, or call ticket information at 860-662-0970.

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Benefit Evening An evening of food, raffles and entertainment will be held from 6 p.m. to midnight, March 19, 2010, at Maneeley's Banquet Facility, 65 Rye Street, South Windsor, to benefit CT State Trooper John Brester, who was severely injured in a motorcycle accident last year. His close friend was killed. Admission is $25 per person. Information, 860-261-4688.

Jews for Jesus Program "Christ in the Passover - Christ is the Lamb of God," is the title of a program to be held at 7 p.m., March 26, 2010, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 10 North River Road, Coventry. Free.

'The Jungle Book' Cromwell Middle School students will perform "The Jungle Book" at 7 p.m., March 26 and 27 and at 2 p.m., March 28, 2010, at the school. A free senior citizens performance with free refreshments at 4 p.m., March 25, 2010. Tickets at the door.

Open Lab Ask questions, get answers, learn new computer skills and practices at this Open Lab from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., March 26, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 460 New Britain Avenue, Hartford. Free. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-7540.

Wine & Beer Tasting A Wine, Beer Tasting and Auction will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., March 26, 2010, at St. Mary School, 652 Willard Avenue, Newington. Tickets are $15 each and may be purchased at the door. There will also be hors d'oeuvres, live music and the chance to bid on a large array of silent auction items as well as live auction items. Call 860-666-3844, ext. 13 for information. Proceeds benefit St. Mary School.

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Antiques Show The 29th Country Antiques in Connecticut's Quiet Corner Antique Show will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 27, 2010, at H.H. Ellis Technical High School, 613 Upper Maple Street, Danielson. Doors open at 9 a.m. for early buyers with $15 admission. Regular admission is $6. Proceeds benefit the Ellis Tech Parent Faculty Organization. Featured items include furnishings as well as functional and decorative accessories in painted and other original surfaces, textiles, paintings, hearth iron, ceramics, baskets, folk art, lighting and more. Gourmet lunch and desserts will be offered. Information, www.countryantiqueshow.com.

Beatlemania Concert The "Cast" recreates the sights and sounds of The Beatles at this event at 8 p.m., March 27, 2010, at Wolcott High School, 457 Bound Line Road, Wolcott. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. The "Cast" features former members who starred in the Broadway production and have performed in all 50 states and over 20 foreign countries. Proceeds benefit the Wolcott High School music department Information, www.whpma.com, 203-879-8164, ext. 21.

Pruning Workshop Jim Luc, Connecticut College, supervisor of grounds, will hold a program on pruning techniques. It will begin with a short lecture followed by time outdoors to practice newly learned pruning techniques. It will be held ay 10 a.m., March 27, 2010, at Room 112, 270 Mohegan Avenue, New London and is $8 for members, $10 for general public and registration is required, 860-439-5020.

Easter Bazaar An Easter bazaar will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 27, 2010, at First United Methodist Church, 34 East Main Street, Thomaston. The event will feature a cookie walk, candy, baked goods, teacup auction, fancy work and white elephant items. Luncheon will be served featuring homemade pies. information, 860-283-0019.

Ciara's Butterfly Ball The Dravet Syndrome Foundation's signature event Ciara's Butterfly Bash, a benefit for children with Dravet Syndrome, will be held March 20, 2010, at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich. Proceeds will benefit research into this catastrophic form of epilepsy in children. For details, www.dravetfoundation.org/ciaras_butterfly_bash.html.

Easter Egg Hunt An Easter Egg Hunt will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, March 27, 2010, at Middlesex Health Care, 100 Randolph Road, Middletown. Free. In addition to the egg hunt, there will be arts and crafts and refreshments. For those ages three to 10. Information and RSVP by March 19 to 860-344-0353.

Wine Tasting A Wine Tasting to benefit Mary's Place, a center for grieving children and families in Windsor, will be held from 7 to 9:30 p.m., March 27, 2010, at Central Street Antiques, 25 Central Street, Windsor, for those 21 and older. Wine, beer, hors d'oeuvres and more will be available and admission is $30 per person. Information, www.marysplacect.org, 860-688-9621.

Growing Your Family Tree A Genealogy Workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, March 27, 2010, at the Trumbull Library, 33 Quality Street, Trumbull. Donations accepted. Public invited. Sponsored by the Sara Riggs Humphreys-Mary Silliman Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. Register at 203-261-2628 and leave message from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or e-mail viceregent@sarahriggshumphreysdar.org.

Spring Fling Dance The fifth annual Spring Fling Dance to benefit the Sunshine Kids will be held from 8 p.m. to midnight, March 27, 2010, at the Windsor Elks Lodge 2060, 130 Deerfield Road, Windsor. Admission is $25 per person and includes music by Locomotion, food and more. Proceeds benefit the Sunshine Kids which provides positive group activities for children with cancer. Information, www.prudentialct.com, 860-688-7531.

Jimmy Buffett Trubute Band "Changes in Latitudes, A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band" will perform at 6 p.m., March 27, 2010, at Aqua Turf, Mulberry Street, Plantsville, to benefit the Visiting Nurse Association of Central Ct. Donation is $65 per person and includes contemporary food stations, two-hour open bar and Margarita station, dessert, show, dancing, and silent auction. Come dressed in appropriate, casual beach attire. Call 860-224-7131 for information and to reserve tickets.

Spring Dance The Friends of the Eleanor Buck Wolf Nature Center will host its eighth Annual Spring Dance Fundraiser from 7 to 11:30 p.m., March 27, 2010, at the Pitkin Community Center, 30 Greenfield Street, Wethersfield. This year's theme, "A Touch of Class" will feature music from big band classics through the dance hits of the 1980s, performed by Boston-based Tuxedo Junction.Light refreshments, prizes, non-alcoholic beverages and drink set-up for those who bring alcoholic beverages will be provided. Advance tickets are $25 and can be purchased by mailing payment and a sase to Friends of the Eleanor Buck Wolf Nature Center, 156 Prospect Street, Wethersfield, CT 06109. Tickets at the door are $30 and tables may be reserved for a group.

Blood Drive An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held from 8 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., March 27, 2010, at Reed Intermediate School, 3 Trades Lane, Newtown.

Tags and Treasures Sale The Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum Bi-Annual Tags and Treasures Sale will be held March 27 to 29, 2010, at the Webb Barn, 211 Main Street, Old Wethersfield. A Wine & Cheese Preview Party will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., March 26, with a 25 admission. The show continues from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 27 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 28 with a bag sale from 2 to 3 p.m. Admission on those days are $5 per person, $4 for museum members, Greater Hartford Arts Council Let's Go members and those who bring in a copy of the sale's print advertisement; $3 per bag for Sundays bag sale. The sale will feature hundreds of household items including antique and vintage pieces, from some of Connecticut's oldest families. Items for sale include antique comb-back and sack-back chairs, a period Chippendale chest, glass, silver, china, linens and books, all donated by the Colonial Dames who maintain the Webbs-Deane-Stevens Museum. Information, www.webb-dean-stevens.org.

Back Birthday Bash A bach Birthday Bash with Guitarist David Veslocki will be celebrated from 7 to 8:30 p.m., March 27, 2010, at Center Church, 675 Main Street, Hartford. Veslocki, a West Hartford native, will perform the complete lute series by J.S. Bach in celebration of the composer's 325th anniversary. The concert will be followed by a cake-and-coffee reception. Veslocki is in the process of recording these pieces. He teaches at New York's 92nd Street Y and at Concordia College in Bronxville. He is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music and Yale University. Information or directions, visit, www.centerchurchhartford.org. Admission is $20 premium seating; $10 general with two for one with the Let's Go Card.

Ancient Technology-Soapstone Carving Soapstone has been used by people throughout the world to produce many different items of utility and beauty. Learn more about the geology and striking versatility of this mineral and see examples of ancient and modern soapstone implements and art objects. Using ancient and modern tools, participants will make a carving of their own design to take home. The program will be held at the CT State Museum of Natural History on the camps of the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Advance registration required, $25, $20 for museum members, includes materials fee. Information, 860-486-5690, www.cac.uconn.edu.

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Holy Week Service The choirs of Holy Zion Church of the Jubilee and Christ the King Lutheran Church present a concert and service of meditation on the events of Holy Week at 6:30 p.m., March 28, 2010, at the church, 465 Park Avenue, Windsor. No reservations required. Information, 860-688-1854. A dinner to benefit the scholarship fund of the church will be held at 5 p.m., March 28, 2010, at the church. For reservations, call 860-697-6364. A free-will offering will be accepted.

Opera Concert The West Hartford Symphony Orchestra presents "An Afternoon at the Opera" at 3 p[.m., march 28, 2010, at Roberts Theater on the grounds of Kingswood-Oxford School, 170 Kingswood Road, West Hartford. The program includes well-known overtures, intermezzi, preludes and arias. Tickets are $15 per person. To order, call 860-521-4362 or mail checks to WHSO, PO Box 370036, West Hartford, CT 06137. Tickets can be purchase don-line at www.whso.org, or at the door after 2:15 p.m., concert day. Refreshments. Directions, www.kingswood-oxford.org.

Baby Grand Jazz The Baby Grand Jazz Series at the Hartford Public Library is a free event at the library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. The performances are from 3 to 4 p.m. and include Jen Allen, March 28. Information, www.hplct.org.

Songbird Sanctuary Benefit The Mount Vernon Songbird Sanctuary Annual Benefit and Auction will be held from 1 to 5 p.m., March 28, 2010, at the Aqua Turf Club, Mulberry Street in Plantsville. The cost is $55 per person and includes food, good company and bargains at the silent and live auctions. The Songbird Sanctuary is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization located in Southington and is the largest facility in the state focusing on migratory songbirds. Information, www.therecoverywing.org, 860-276-8433.

Stories in Stone In a series of entertaining essays, geoscientist Jelle Z. DeBoer describes how early settlers discovered and utilized Connecticut's natural resources. Their successes as well as failures form the the very basis of this state's history. The program will be held at 3 p.m., March 28, 2010, at the CT Museum of Natural History on the campus of the University of Connecticut. Free. Information, 860-486-4460, www.mnh.uconn.edu.

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Benefit Zumba Party A Zumba Party for cause Haiti will be held from 5:45 to 7 p.m., March 29, 2010, at Ron & Roll, 85 South Frontage Road, Vernon. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. Minimum donation is $10 and make checks to the American Red Cross. Children older than 10 are welcome and childcare will be provided for those between ages two to 10. Modifications offered. Wear non-restrictive clothing, aerobic sneakers and bring a bottle of water and small beach towel. Information, 860-872-7094, www.actiweb.es./zumbagirls/index/html.

Excel Basics Create and work with workbooks and worksheets, enter and manipulate data, use and enter formulas, apply formatting in the Excel Basics 2007 Class to be offered Saturdays from 3 to 5 p.m., March 29 through April 12, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 256 Farmington Avenue, Hartford. Register in person, on-line at www.hplct.org, or by calling 860-695-6284. Plan to attend all classes in this course and registration ends on the first day of class.

Open Lab Ask questions, get answers, learn new computer skills and practices at this Open Lab from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., March 29, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-7540.

Reading with Las Comadres Join the National Latino Book Club reading on women's health and discussing Jane Delgado's Latina Guide to Health: Consejos and Caring Answers. It will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., March 29, 2010, at Hartford Public Library Park Street Branch, 744 Park Street, Hartford. Registration requested, on line at www.hplct.org, in person or by calling 860-695-7500.

Reading with Las Comadres Join the National Latino Book Club reading on women's health and discussing Jane Delgado's Latina Guide to Health: Consejos and Caring Answers. It will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., March 29, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Registration requested, on line at www.hplct.org, in person or by calling 860-695-7500.

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Poetry Reading The University of New Haven English Department and Elm City Review will host a reading by Afro-Chicano poet John Murillo from his first full -length collection of poems "Up Jump the Boogie," from 5;30 to 6:30 p.m., March 30, 2010, on the UNH campus, Bartels Student Center, upper lounge, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven. Free. Public invited. Information, 203-932-2991.

Open Lab Ask questions, get answers, learn new computer skills and practices at this Open Lab from 6 to 8 p.m., March 29, 2010, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-6295.

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OpenOffice.Org OpenOffice.Org has free programs for word processing, presentation and spreadsheets and will be taught from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., March 31, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 7 New Park Avenue, Hartford. Free. All are comparable to and compatible with those of Microsoft Office. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-7460.

Trade Show Boothcamp Learn booth strategies proven to increase traffic and sales at craft fairs, trade shows and other exhibition. The program will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., March 31, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford and is free. Registration requested in person, on-line at www.hplct.org or by calling 860-695-6295.

Using Social Media Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, Linkedin and YouTube are the most well known of many social media websites which non-profits are turning to for marketing, networking and public relations. In this workshop, from 10 a.m. to noon, March 31, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford, attendees will learn about privacy and security concerns for an organization, clients and employees. Also intellectual property issues, use to screen potential employees and employee use during work hours. Information, www.hplct.org.

Family Book Discussion A Family Book Discussion: "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," Part I, will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., March 31, 2010, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. For ages eight and up with an adult. Read the first half of Tom Sawyer and discuss it with other families. Information, www.hplct.org.