Ongoing

Art Museum Tour Manross Memorial Library, 260 Central Street, Forestville, is sponsoring a private tour of the New Britain Museum of American Art, 56 Lexington Street, New Britain August 7. The cost is $18.75 per person and includes a private tour and continental breakfast at the museum. Meet at the museum at 9 a.m. Carpooling from Manross Library is also available. Registration and prepayment by August 4, is required. For information, to register, visit the library or call 860-584-7790. Public welcome.

CT Authors’ Trail The Connecticut Authors Trail focuses on the state’s most brilliant writers and brings together a diverse collection of writers whose styles cover everything from suspense thrillers to romantic novels to libraries across Eastern Connecticut. All programs are free and open to the public. Passports will be available at participating libraries through the summer as a guide to the author events. Have the passport stamped at each event for a chance to qualify for a preprogram meet and greet with Chefs Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarborough September 24 at The Cabaret Theatre at Mohegan Sun. Information, http://site.google.com/site/connectucutauthortrail/

Fill the Boot The Greenwich Fire Department will Fill-the-Boot for Muscular Dystrophy Association from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 18, 25, August 1, 8, 15 and 16, at the fire stations around Greenwich. Collections will also be made from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Tod’s Point beach. In case of rain, the firefighters will fill the boot on the following Wednesday. The beach collection will be rain or shine. Information, www.mda.org, 914-345-5062.

Friday Night Live! The public is welcome very Friday night at 7:30 p.m. to the Back Room of Swift Waters Artisans’ Cooperative, 750 Main Street, Willimantic. Entertainment provided by musicians Jon Reeves and Randy Behan along with various other local musicians. Free admission and refreshments. Information, www.swiftwaters.org.

Karaoke Contest A Southington Sings Karaoke Contest will be held from July 22 to August 26, 2009, at Machiavelli’s Restaurant, Center Street, Southington. A donation of $20 for all contestants with a $5 donation for all others. The event will be held at 9:30 p.m., every Wednesday and all proceeds will benefit the Southington Social Services. The grand prize is a vacation for two at Dreams Palm Beach in the Dominican Republic. Information, www.southington.org, with contestant asked to contact Bill Lynch at 860-621-4777 prior to each event.

Runs Club The Runs Club is a weekly fun run that meets every Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m., in Unionville Center section of Farmington. It meets at the intersection of Route 177 (South Main Street) and the Farmington Canal Bike Path. Parking available at 112 South Main Street. Runners of all level are invited. Each week there is a different workout and warm-up depending on interests and abilities. Information, www.therunsclub.com, 860-402-1261.

Vacation Bible School The Third Congregational Church of Middletown, 94 Miner Street, will hold a Vacation Bible School from 6 to 8:15 p.m., July 20 to 24, 2009. The programs will be held at Camp E.D.G.E. To register, call 860-632-0733 or the website at thirdchurchmiddletown.org.

Seymour Square Farm Stand In an effort to promite healthy eating and support local growers, Hartford Hospital and the Connecticut Children's Medical Center have partnered to host the Seymour Square Farm Stand on the grounds of the hospitals' campus, 80 Seymour Street, Hartford. The farm stand will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fridays, begining July 10, 2009. Free admission. Each week's farm stand selections will feature locally grown and seasonally fresh fruits, vegetables, berries, herbs, plants and specialty items from Manchester, CT-based Botticello Farms. Also featured will be honey, jams and jellies, trail mix, hanging plants and more from the state and regional farmers. The market is WIC-certified and WIC coupons will be accepted as a form of payment.

Joy Camp Camp Joy is a free simmer camp for children ages four to 12 at the CT Christian Academy, 30 Brooks Road, Middletown, sponsored by the Shiloh Christian Church, 373 Main Street, Middletown. Space is limited. Breakfast and lunch will be served. Information, www.joycamp weebly.com.

Summer Enrichment A full day summer enrichment program "Around the World in Twenty Days," will be offered from July 6 to 31, 2009, at the Oak Grove Nature Center, 269 Oak Grove Street, Manchester. Times and hours to be announced. Participants will discover the culture, landmarks and nature of a different continent each week. Participants may register for one or all four weeks of the program. Call the front desk at 860-643-0949, ext. 10 for information or to request a brochure.

Chabad Hebrew School Chabad is once again opening its doors to the Jewish community in Northwest Connecticut, regardless of background of affiliation, to take part in an opportunity to learn about their Jewish heritage. There are three locations –Litchfield, Southbury and Waterbury. All students participate in activities such as Yom Kippur slippers, Succah Hop, kosher label contest, olive oil press, menorah making, a Purim party, matzo factory and more. The school meets one day a week and no membership is required. For ages four to 13. Information, www.chabadNW.org/hws, 888-310-6864 or e-mail chabadNW@aol.com.

Singles Sailing A Sailing Club for Singles over age 35 meets monthly on the first and third Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Westbrook Elks, 142 Seaside Avenue, Westbrook. Those interested in sailing, socializing, adventure, are welcome. Information, 860-460-3606 or visit the website at www.shorelinesalingclub.com.

Surf and Shopping Trip The Elmwood Senior Center will host a visit to the Madison Surf Club and a Shopping Trip along Main Street in Madison, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., July 14, 2009. The cost is $27 for members and $29 for non-members. Bring a beach chair to sit in the sun or in a shaded picnic area. There a clean changing rooms and rest rooms. Lunch buy the Goldberg Deli with a choice or chicken or tuna salad, turkey or ham. Following lunch, shop Main Street in Madison. Meet at the gazebo in the lower parking lot of the Elmwood Senior Center. Call to register, 860-561-8180

Farmers’ Market The Spring Glen Farmers’ market will be held from 3 to 6 p.m., until October 27, 2009, at the Spring Glen Church, 1825 Whitney Avenue, Hamden. Free admission. There will be locally-grown produce and other goods made in Connecticut. Information, 203-281-1529, www.springglenchurch.org.

Amazing Biodiversity Everyone knows thee is great biodiversity in the rain forest but have consider the biodiversity of a managed wildlife preserve, an athletic field, a farm field and barns, greenhouses or a research facility. In this program, visitors will explore the biodiversity found on the campus of the University of Connecticut by visiting and examining several of its different indoor and outdoor habitats. Sponsored by Kids Are Scientists Too, KAST, for children entering grades five through 10. It will run from 9 a.m. to noon, July 27 to 31, 2009, at UConn, Storrs and is $180 per student, $200 after June 2. Information or to register, call 860-486-4460, www.mnh.uconn.edu.

Helping Hands Every second and fourth Saturday of the month, Minister Walker Outreach Ministries provides food and clothing to anyone in need at 1407 Park Street, Hartford. Every third Saturday the staff, staff and volunteers deliver food and fellowship to homebound senior citizens, disabled veterans and individuals who request the service. Information, www.minister-walker-ministries.com, 860-233-3482.

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Alzheimer's Support To help families and caregivers better understand and treat Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, The Village at East Farms senior living community hosts an Alzheimer's support group at 6 p.m., every first Wedensday each month, continuing on July 1. The community is located at 180 Scott Road, Waterbury. The group provides participants with an opportunity to learn more about the different stages of Alzheimer's and offers tips on ways to cope. July's topic is "Recent Research and Treatment Results." Free, open to the puiblic. Refreshments. RSVP at 203-757-7660.

Open Computer Lab Open computer lab session will be held from 7 to 8 p.m., July 1, 2009, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. Free. Ask questions, get answers, learn new skills and practice. Walk-ins welcome. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

Learn to Type Beginners can learn the keyboard and increase typing speed at this class to be offered from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m., Wednesdays, July 1 to August 26, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 main Street/ Free. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

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Learn to Type Beginners can learn the keyboard and increase typing speed at this class to be offered from 10:30 to 11;30 a.m., Thursdays, July 2 to August 27, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. Free. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

Word Basics Learn Word Basics on Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m., July 2 to 23, 2009, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Create news or edit existing documents, enter and format text, check spelling and grammar, cut and paste, format paragraphs, save and print. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

Open Computer Lab Open computer lab session will be held from 7 to 8 p.m., July 2, 2009, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. Free. Ask questions, get answers, learn new skills and practice. Walk-ins welcome. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

G-Mail Class Sign up for a free Google account and learn the features of its e-mail – Gmail. The classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursdays, July 2 to 16, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, Albany Branch, 1250 Albany Avenue, Hartford. Free. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

Burning of Fairfield Walking Tour Commemorate the 230th anniversary of Fairfield’s burning during the American Revolution with a walking tour at 10 a.m., July 2; 7 p.m., July 7; and 2 p.m., July 18, 2009, at the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield. Admission is $5 for members and $7 for non-members. Learn about the attack while walking. Hear events leading up to, during and after the fateful British attack in this series of special tours. Come to one or all three. Explore significant sites on the historic town green, learn about spies and privateers and view the museum’s new exhibit. Information, www.fairfieldhs.org, 203-259-1598.

Celebrate America! The Hartford Symphony Orchestra will once again “Celebrate America!” at the Talcott Mountain Music Festival at 7:30 p.m., July 2 and 3, 2009, at the Performing Arts Center at Simsbury Meadows. Some of the selections include the “Star Spangled Banner,” two marches – “National Emblem” and “Washington Post.” The grand finale is a fireworks display (conditions permitting) with the “1812 Overture” and “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Gates open at 6 p.m. For tickets and information on the music festival before June 1, visit 99 Pratt Street, Suite 500, Hartford, weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., after June 1, visit the box office at the festival site, or call 860-244-2999, on-line at www.talcottmountain.org.

Summer Concert First Thursday Summer Concert featuring guitar acoustics from the Latin American ensemble, Tierra Mestiza, and the annual Garden Party and Arts Raffle, will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., July 2, 2009, at the Butler-McCook House & Garden, 396 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Information, www.ctlandmarks.org.

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Paper Shredding Emeritus Senior Living in Rocky Hill will hold a Freedom paper Shredding Event from 10 a.m. to noon, July 3, 2009, at the community, 60 Cold Spring Road. Community residents are invited to stop in to shred sensitive documents.

Western Classic Spend the Fourth of July watching Cowboys and Cowgirls working their horses in ranch situations at the Independence Day Western Classic from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., July 3, 4, and 5, 2009, at Quarry Town Stables, 239 Sand Hill Road, Portland. Admission is free. Horsemen from the Northeast will compete for cash and prizes in events such as versatility ranch horse, working cowhorse and cattle cutting. Following Saturday’s events, at 5 p.m., there will be an old-fashioned pig roast and chicken barbecue will be held. Tickets are $15 and will benefit the Manes and Motion Therapeutic Riding program of Middletown. Tickets can be purchased at the event. Information, www.quarrytown.com, 860-342-3111.

Western Classic Spend the Fourth of July watching Cowboys and Cowgirls working their horses in ranch situations at the Independence Day Western Classic from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., July 3, 4, and 5, 2009, at Quarry Town Stables, 239 Sand Hill Road, Portland. Admission is free. Horsemen from the Northeast will compete for cash and prizes in events such as versatility ranch horse, working cowhorse and cattle cutting. Following Saturday’s events, at 5 p.m., there will be an old-fashioned pig roast and chicken barbecue will be held. Tickets are $15 and will benefit the Manes and Motion Therapeutic Riding program of Middletown. Tickets can be purchased at the event. Information, www.quarrytown.com, 860-342-3111.

Savage Brothers Concert The Savage Brothers are a Hartford-based band established in 1984 – a six-piece funkin,’ rockin,’ and rhythm group. It features a two-piece horn section. They will perform from 7 to 9 p.m., July 3, 2009, at Patriots Park, Lake Street, Coventry. Free. No alcohol or pets allowed. Picnic during the performance. Raffle prizes during intermission. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Popcorn, candy, soda and water will be sold by the Parks and Recreation Department.

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Carousel Anniversary For the fourth consecutive year, the Hartford office of law firm McCarter & English, LLP, will honor the 95th anniversary of the Bushnell Park Carousel, July 4. There will be free carousel rides from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., July 4 with a special cake-cutting ceremony at noon. The event is open to the public.

Four on the 4th The Rotary Club of Chester will sponsor its 31st annual Four on the 4th Road Race. The start time is 10 a.m. sharp and prizes will be awarded in multiple categories. There will be live music, food and drinks. The race begins at the Flag Pole, Main Street, Chester. Pre-registration fee is $20, $25 on race day. Entry forms, information, at www.chesterrotary.org. All entrants will receive a tee-shirt and complimentary drink tickets. Mailed entry forms must be postmarked by June 20 to be processed. Race day registration will take place from 8 and 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish Benter, Middlesex Avenue, Route 154, Chester. Main Street in Chester will be closed at 9 a.m. race day. Due t bridge replacement, all race entrants must take Exit 5 off Route 9 and detour through Deep River for registration after 9 a.m. Maps are available on the club website.

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Cat/Dog Days of Summer The Cat and Dog Days of Summer, a meet and greet event for adoptable dogs and cats, will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., July 5, 2009, at Westy Storage Centers, 15 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury. Sponsored by the Danbury Animal Welfare Society. Information, 203-730-2000, www.DAWS.org.

Free Jazz Concert The Shoreline Arts Alliance continues its 25 year history of bringing free outdoor summer entertainment to the Guilford Green. Come and enjoy Marcel & Beyond the Sun, brining smooth jazz to Guilford in celebration of the 4th of July weekend. The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m., July 5, 2009, on the Guilford Green. Free parking around the green and in town lots. The concerts are family friendly and picnicking is encouraged. In case of rain, the concert is moved to the Guilford Community Center, 32 Church Street. The group plays jazz with a contemporized edge using multimedia and guest vocalists. Free. Information, www.shorelinearts.org.

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Basic Computer Skills Learn the skills needed to today’s job search offered from 6 to 8 p.m., July 6 through 27, 2009 at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. Set up an e-mail account, attach a resume to an e-mail, learn the basics of Word and its Resume Wizard, visit job and company websites, fill out an on-line job application and more. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

Word Basics Learn Word Basics on Mondays from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., July 6 to 20, 2009, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Create news or edit existing documents, enter and format text, check spelling and grammar, cut and paste, format paragraphs, save and print. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

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GOP Meeting A general meeting of the New Britain Republican Town Committee will be held at 7 p.m., July 7 with an endorsement meeting for candidates for the November municipal elections slated for 7 p.m., July 28, 2009, both in Room 504, at City Hall. Information, www.nbrtc.com.

Sunshine Road The Sunshine Road at the Manross Library, 260 Central Street, Forestville, will be held at 10:30 a.m., July 7, 2009. Free. The Sunshine Road, the award-winning stars of TV’s “Sunshine Road Sing-a-Long Show” will present a program of musical fun for the whole family. Free but registration is required. Information or to register, visit the library or call 860-584-7790.

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The Messiah Mystery A talk by Yochanan Rivkin will be held at 7:30 p.m., July 8, 2009, at Chabad House, 2352 Albany Avenue, West Hartford. Advance tickets are $7. The talk will focus on: What is this Jewish ideal, “Moshiach” – the Messiah? Where is its source? When did it become so important to Judaism? How is it important to the here and now. Sponsored by Chabad of Greater Hartford. Information, www.ChabadHartford.com.

Scrunchy’s Playhouse The Manross Memorial Library, 260 Central Street, Forestvillle, will host Scrunchy’s Playhouse with Karen at 10 a.m., July 8 and 22 and August 5 and 19, 2009. This is a program of stories, crafts and refreshments for ages three to 10. Free, no registration required. Information, 860-584-7790.

Email and More Sign up for a free Yahoo email account and learn to use it. Create your own home page. The classes will be held from 7 to 8 p.m., Wednesdays, July 8 to 29, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

Spies R Us Learn about the spies who worked for George Washington’s Culper Spy Ring – some of actually lived in Fairfield, at the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., for ages five to seven, July 8, or from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., July 9, 2009, for ages eight to 11. The cost is $12 for members, $15 non-members, ages five to seven; members $30, $35 for non-members, ages eight to 11. Advance registration required, call 203-259-1598, www.fairfieldhs.org.

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Graceful Aging Brown Bag Lunch Presentation for Graceful Aging will be presented at 12:16 p.m., July 9, 2009, at The Village at South Farms, 645 Saybrook Road, Middletown. Free. The presentations are free and open to the public. Bring a bag lunch. Dessert and beverages provided. RSVP by July 9 at 860-344-8788. July’s program is “Improving Your Memory,” will offer tips and techniques for memory enhancement.

American Opera Idol The Connecticut Concert Opera, borrowing a page from the popular “America Idol” TV series, will present “American Opera Idol” featuring five talented young opera artists whose careers are on the rise. Two men and three sopranos will sing opera arias and ensembles, competing for the audience’s vote to decide who will become the American Opera Idol. The event will take place at 7:30 p.m., July 9, 2009, at the Pond House at Elizabeth Park, 1555 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford and all sears are $25 with a picnic supper available for $12.50 each. The audience gets to vote by cell phone or paper ballot. Information, www.connconcertopera.org.

Campfires at Blue Slope Campfires at the Blue Slope Country Museum, will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m., July 9, and August 20, 2009, 138 Blue Hill Road, Franklin. Admission is $4 per person, $16 per family. Rain or shine. Roast marshmallows, drink lemonade or water, hear a story or two, sing songs - old, new, rounds and action songs. Surprises each night. Bring something to sit on.

Baseball History in Hartford “Lost Diamonds of Glory: Hidden baseball History in Hartford’s Parks” will be presented from 5 to 6:30 p.m., July 9, 2009, at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Just in time for the Riverfest 2009 vintage baseball games at Colt Meadows, the program will explore the public parks of Hartford and their rich baseball history. Gary “Pops” O’Maxfield, Hartford’s baseball historian, and Gary Wait, City parks Collection Archivist, explore the forgotten baseball parks and the lost stories of the city’s amazing contribution to baseball. Information, www.hplct.org.

Email and More Sign up for a free Yahoo email account and learn to use it. Create your own home page. The classes will be held from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., Thursdays, July 9 to 30, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

Laser Shows The Children’s Museum, 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford, is bringing back the laser music show for two weeks this summer. The dates are July 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, with the first show at 6 p.m., suitable for children and their families and lasts about 30 minutes. Tickets are $5 for TCM members and $6 for non-members. The first week’s show is Laser Pop, a collection of radio hits. The second week’s early show will be Laser Beatles. To preorder tickets, call 860-231-2840, ext. 44, e-mail, events@thechildrensmuseumCT.org. If available, tickets will be sold at the door.

Laser Shows The Children’s Museum, 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford, is bringing back the laser music show for two weeks this summer. The dates are July 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, with a show at 7 and 8:15 p.m.. Tickets for the 45-50-minute adult shows are $7 for TCM members and $8 for non-members. The first week’s show is Laser U2, a collection of their hits from the past 30 years. The second week’s show will be Laser X: The Alternative Experience with bands like Foo Fighters and Smashing Pumpkins. To preorder tickets, call 860-231-2840, ext. 44, e-mail, events@thechildrensmuseumCT.org. If available, tickets will be sold at the door.

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Enfield July Celebration The Enfield Fourth of July Town Celebration begins July 10 on the Enfield Green with a ribbon cutting. Entertainment will be provided by Columbia Fields and guitar legend Dickey Betts & Great Southern. On July 11, there will be more entertainment on the town green by Hartford's Savage Brothers. On July 12, The Hartford Symphony will return featuring David Foster. The Patriot Award winner will be named followed by fireworks. All free. There will also be the Taste of Enfield, a 5K road race, craft fair, parade, free children's activities. Information, www.enfieldcelebration.org for information.

Girls’ Night Out Celebrate opening night at the Goodspeed Opera House, East Haddam by gathering the girls for glitz and glamour Broadway-style with a Ticket ‘n ‘Tina special. The package includes one ticket to “Camelot” and a specialty martini, all for $44 per person for the 7 p.m., July 10, 2009 performance. Information, www.goodspeed.org/show_detail.aspx?id=1418.

Sailfest New London Sailfest is Southeastern Connecticut’s premiere summertime event attracting over 300,000 people over the three-day event. This year it will be held from noon to 11 p.m., July 10, 11, 12, 2009, in downtown new London. It is complete with a major fireworks display, amusement rides, free entertainment, Tall Ships, and over 200 vendors. Admission is free. Information, www.sailfest.org.

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Grinder Sale The South Windham Fire Department will hold a Grinder Sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., July 11, 2009, at 41 Machine Shop Hill Road, South Windham. Twelve-inch turkey, ham or salami grinders are $6 each. Information, 860-208-1947, www.southwindhamfire.org.

Green Building Class The Builders Association is offering Green Building 101 for consumers and industry professionals from 10 to 1:45 a.m., July 11, 2009, at the site of its Green Showcase Home. Builder Jim Pepitone will take visitors through the green building process and discusses various green products and technologies through the construction site. To register, visit baec.net or call the BAEC office at 860-859-3518. A $10 donation to the Gemma Moran United Way Food Bank is greatly appreciated.

Pond Tour The 11th annual Pond Tour to benefit the American Cancer Society will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., July 11 and 12, 2009, beginning at Yellow Dog Farm, 505 William Street, Portland. Admission is $20 per person, $30 per couple with children free. The tour features some of the most exquisite landscapes and water features. The self-guided tour provides gardening enthusiasts with maps and directions to several locations throughout central Connecticut offering a variety of water and landscape features, diverse plant material and ideas. Information, 860-342-7331.

Tall Ship Tours Goodwin College will welcome the public to its River Campus in East Hartford to tour the tall ship, Half Moon. The Half Moon, a full-scale operating replica of the Dutch ship of exploration that Henry Hudson sailed in 1609, is a traveling museum that conducts programs about the unique history of the Dutch colony called New Netherland. The tours will be offered from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 11 and 12, 2009, at the college, One Riverside Drive, East Hartford. Free parking and admission. Information on the ship, visit, www.halfmoon.us.ny.us. Information on the visit, contact Karen Gilbert at kgilbert@goodwin.edu, 860-291-9934, www.goodwin.edu.

Fine Art and Flowers “Art & Posies, Fine Art & Flowers,” will be held from 2 to 5 p.m., July 11 and 12, 2009, at the Lambert Hitchcock House , Route 20, Riverton. Free. View displays of local history, art, flowers, life and community and a showcase of a dozen or more local artists and flowers. An opening reception will be held July 11 with light refreshments from Riverton’s restaurants. Information, www.rivertonct.com.

Exact Change For the second consecutive year, the Arts Council of Greater New Haven, in partnership with CT Transit, presents “Exact Change,” a series of live performances on five bus routes in New Haven. Performances, which include improve-comedy, music and dance, poetry and theater, take place from 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., July 11, 2009, and are free with CT Transit’s regular $1.25 fare. All bus routes terminate at the Nave Haven Green. For information about “Exact Change,” visit www.newhavenartsl.org, for bus routes, visit www.cttransit.com.

Comedy-on-Main Comedy-on-Main will present “Summer Sizzler” featuring three hot comedians: Johnny Beson, an opening act for Lisa Lampanelli; Pete Michaels, and “The Area Code Guy.” The event will be held at 8 p.m., July 11, 2009, at Trinity-on-Main, 69 Main Street, New Britain. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. Information, www.trinityonmain.org

Open Blues Jam The first set of the blues jam features the Hartford Public Library staff from 3 to 4 p.m., Saturdays, July 11 and 25, 2009, at the library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. The second set is open to musicians may sit in and play with them. Free. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6284.

Let’s Talk About It “Love, Forgiveness and Wisdom Reading and Discussion Series,” will continue from 2 to 4 p.m., July 11, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Explore the themes of love and forgiveness in everyday life through classic and contemporary literature in this five-part reading and discussion series. The book is “Atonement: by Ian McEwan. Registration requested in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org.

Excel Basics Create and work with workbooks and worksheets, enter and manipulate data, use and enter formulas and apply formatting in the Excel Basics Course. It will be offered from 3 to 5 p.m., Saturdays, July 11 through 25, 2009, three classes only at Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

Email and More Sign up for a free Yahoo email account and learn to use it. Create your own home page. The classes will be held from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., Saturdays, July 11 to 25, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org. Plan to attend all classes in a course.

Book Sale The Annual Book Sale of the Friends of the Edith Wheeler memorial Library will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily, July 11 to 15, 2009, at Masuk High School, 1014 Monroe Tpke., Monroe. An early bird entrance fee of $10 will be charged from 9 to 10 a.m., July 11. The sale features over 25,000 quality books of fiction and non-fiction for both adults and children, sorted into over 90 plus categories. The sale will also feature audio/video items, collections, games and puzzles. Donations will be accepted during regular library hours. Donations may also be left in the after-hours shed located in the farthest rear parking lot behind town hall and the police station. Proceeds benefit the purchase of library items and to support programs outside the regular budget. Information or to volunteer, call 203-452-2850 or www.ewml.org.

Particle Accelerator III Concert Particle Accelerator III Concert in memory of the late Jack Young Jr. and to benefit United Services, will be held beginning at 11 a.m., July 11, 2009, at the Brooklyn Fairgrounds, Route 169, Brooklyn. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Returning bands include White Rose Confession, Circadian Rhythm and The Rectangle Club and will be joined by Stressbomb and others. Local bands are encouraged to join the concert. Jack Young committed suicide on his 27th birthday. The purpose of the music festival is to increase awareness of suicide and depression and to promote music as a healthy alternative for young people. All proceeds benefit United Services Inc., to provide assistance to those who lack insurance coverage for mental health services. Vendors or bands interested in participating can request infromation from info@particleaccelerator.org, or 860-928-3422 or 860-428-3827.

Tavern Night Tavern Night at the Noah Webster House in West Hartford will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., July 11, 2009. Advance registration required, $50, $40 for members of the CT State Museum of Natural History. The event will include a three-course hearty tavern-style meal and delicious beverages by candlelight, followed by rollicking tunes from musician Don Sinetti performing sea chanteys in the Yankee whaling tradition. Eighteenth-century tavern games such as skittles, Captain’s Mistress, Shove Ha’Penny and others will be played as well as a special house tour. For information and reservations, 860-486-5690, www.mnh.uconn.edu.

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Victory Garden Seminar AIKI Farms will host Ed Begley Jr. for a Victory Garden Seminar from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., July 12, 2009, at the farm, 769 Shewville Road, Ledyard. Beginner and expert gardeners are invited to pick up information on organic gardeninig, enjoy a feast prepared by local chefs and learn more about renewable energy from Mystic Solar. Information, 860-536-6407, e-mail, ranochoaiki@aikifamrs.com. Money raised will support Working Lands Alliance, Farm Bureau, Young Farmers and the Stower Farm in Ohio.

Car Show The eight annual Charity Benefit Car Show will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 12, 2009, on Iron Horse Blvd., downtown Simsbury. Show cars are $10 to register and spectator donations are welcome. Sponsored by the Valley Collector Car Club, the proceeds benefit state and local charities. There will be a dunk tank, the nationally touring show car “Coppercino,” on display, demonstrations, collectibles for sale, a 40-foot race track for Hot Wheels (kids, bring yours), a Roaming Raceway for both children and adults and more. Information, www.ValleyCollectorCarClub.org, 860-656-7122.

Wine Tasting at Goodspeed A sampling of fine wines hosted by Shoreline Discount Liquors of Deep River and complimentary hors d’oeurves from the Gelston House of East Haddam will be held at 5 p.m., July 12, 2009, at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam. Donation is $10 with a ticket to the 6:30 .m. performance of “Camelot.” Reserve in advance at www.goodspeed.org/events,aspx?id=324 through the box office.

Karaoke Benefit A Karaoke Contest sponsored by the WildRose Equestrian Club, will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 12, 2009, at 536 Raymond Hill Road, Uncasville. Rain date is July 19. Admission is $5. There will be riding horses by leadline, food available, raffles, games. Singers on a first-come basis, limited to 20. Proceeds benefit the therapeudic riding program. Information, www.wildrosehorsefarm.com, 860-912-1557.

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Nature & Kids Camp Children ages six to 11 are invited to join artist and teacher Betsy Rogers-Knox and Nancy McMillan as they begin their fourth season of hunting for fairy hideouts and observing the nature of the landscape and the Bellamy Preserve. The camp will enable children to gain art skills and an appreciation for art history through explorations and artistic interpretations in a historic setting. Children will also learn the links between art and nature as they create their own nature journal. The four-day camp runs from July 13 to 16, 2009, at the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden, 9 Main Street, Bethlehem. The cost is $150 per child, $135 for members. Information and reservations, 203-266-7596, www.ctlandmarks.org.

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Doorknob Convention The Antique Doorknob Collectors of America (ADCA) will hold its 29th annual convention from July 14 to 17, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Hartford. A public open house will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., July 16. There is no fee to view the collections, receive free appraisals or purchase hard-to-find hardware from members. ADCA is a non-profit organization found in 1981. Members are devoted to the study and preservation of decorative hardware from the Victorian to the Art Deco era. Information at www.knobnews@optonline.net.

Beading Workshop Create jewelry including keychains and necklaces from a wide array of colorful glass beads in a workshop for children ages eight to 11 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., July 14, 2009, at the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield. Members are $30 and non-members $35. Advance registration required, call 203-259-1598, www.fairfieldhs.org.

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Family Information The Family Information Series is designed to provide support and valuable resources to those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or other memory-impairing conditions. It is held at 7 p.m., July 15, 2009, at The Village at Brookfield Commons, 246A Federal Road, Brookfield and is free. July’s topic is “When Your Loved One Refuses to Care” will be presented by Ana Nelson of the Alzheimer’s Association. Family invited. Refreshments. RSVP, 203-775-8696.

Summer Concerts Summer Concerts Under the Stars will be offered at Academy Point at Mystic, 20 Academy Lane, Mystic. The concerts will be held at 7 p.m., July 15, and will feature the Noank-Mystic Community Band. Pianist Larry Batter will perform a variety of hits at 6:30 p.m., July 29. Free, open to the public, refreshments served. RSVP to 860-536-1133.

Quality of Life in Hartford The Hartford Public Library, Hartford 2000 and Councilman Jim Boucher pre4sents HartfordInfo Today, Summer in the City: Quality of Life in Hartford, July 15, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Refreshments served at 5:30 p.m., program begins at 6 p.m. It is summer and that means everyone in Hartford is interested in quality of life issues: public safety, crime, violence, noise, street racing, graffiti, neighborhood cleanliness, blighted buildings and more. Key people from the community will discuss how Hartford’s quality of life can be improved and how citizens can work together. Information, www.hartfordinfo.org.

Magic Show Get Creative @ Your Library magic Show will be held at 10 a.m., July 15, 2009, at Manross Memorial Library, 260 Central Street, Forestville. Steve Woyce of Full Effects productions will present a magic show for all ages. Free but registration is required. Information or to register, visit the library or call 860-584-7790.

Summer Concerts A Summer Concert Series featuring the Connecticut Yankee Chorus on July 15, and the Cool Cats on August 19, 2009, will be presented from 7 to 8 p.m., at the Village at Kensington Place, 511 Kensington Avenue, Meriden. The rain date for the July 15 concert is July 22. Free, public invited. Refreshments offered at 6:30 p.m. RSVP at 203-235-0181.

Trip to ‘Camelot’ The Elmwood Senior Center has planned a trip to the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam to see “Camelot,” July 15. The musical chronicles the legend of King Arthur and his tortured love affair with Queen Guenevere. Lunch at the Gelston House with a choice of pasta, chicken marsala, steak or filet of sole. The bus departs at 10:30 a.m. from the center lower parking lot and will return about 6 p.m. Prereigster at the center, 1106 New Britain Avenue, Elmwood. Tickets are $96 for members, $99 for non-members. Call 860-561-8180 for details.

Advanced Beading Learn advanced beading techniques with beads in all colors, shapes and sizes in a workshop for children ages 12 to 14, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., July 15, 2009, at the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield. Members are $30 and non-members $35. Advance registration required, call 203-259-1598, www.fairfieldhs.org.

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Summer Concerts A Summer Concert Series will be held at 7 p.m., July 16, 2009, at Ridgefield Crossings, 640 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. Free. The Kenny Lee Band will be featured on July 16 with the Frank Porto Band on August 20. Free, public invited. Refreshments s+erved. RSVP, 203-431-2255.

Lessons for Life: Money The Avon Free Public Library and Cornerstone Wealth Management Group will sponsor a free one-hour seminar at 7 p.m., July 16, 2009, at Avon Library, 218 Country Club Road, designed for high school and college graduates entering the work force. The program will cover such topics as pay yourself first, keep emotions out of the investing process, utilizing your benefits, be wise about debt, understanding financial needs vs. financial wants, and how to become financially savvy. A question and answer period will follow. Information, www.avonctlibrary.info.

Let’s Talk About It “Love, Forgiveness and Wisdom Reading and Discussion Series,” will continue from 5:30 to 8 p.m., July 16, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Explore the themes of love and forgiveness in everyday life through classic and contemporary literature in this five-part reading and discussion series. The book is “Atonement: by Ian McEwan. Registration requested in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org.

Cedar Hill Behind-the-Scenes Tour Established in 1864, Cedar Hill is committed to preserving its historic landscape as well as Hartford’s significant past. Long-time board member Russ Jones leads this informal stroll “Behind the Scenes” of this National Historic Landmark. It will be held at 6 p.m., July 16, 2009, at the cemetery, 453 Fairfield Avenue, Hartford. The charge is $5. Information, www.cedarhillcemetery.org.

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Summer Shakespeare Connecticut Free Shakespeare, in its 10th anniversary season, is recreating its first summer production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The free performance returns July 17 to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport. All performances are free and open to the public. The cast includes 13 actors from across the country who are members of the Actors’ Equity Association. Performances are at 8 p.m., July 17 and 18, 22 through 26, 29 through August 1. Zoo doors open at 6:30 p.m. for picnics with the performance beginning at 8 p.m. Parking is free. Blankets, chairs and picnics are welcome and encouraged. Performances are cancelled in the event of inclement weather. Information, www.ctfreeshakespeare.org, 203-393-3212.

Submarine Force Museum An Activity Day will be held at the Submarine Force Museum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 17, 2009, at 1 Crystal Lake Road, Groton. Free. The day will feature a scavenger hunt, design a LEGO submarine, use signal flags to spell a name. build an aluminum foil boat, create a submarine patch. Museum admission and all activities are free. Information, www.ussnautilus.org.

Deep River Muster The Deep River Ancient Muster will be held July 17 and 18, 2009, at Devitt's Field in Deep River. The 25th annual Tattoo begins at 7 p.m., July 17, at Devitt's Field and the 56th annual Parade begins at 11 a.m., July 18 from the corner of Kirtland and Main streets to Devitt's Field. Over 70 fife and drum corps and 1,500 marchers are expected. Information, dram2000@gmail.com.

Submarine Force Museum An Activity Day will be held at the Submarine Force Museum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 17, 2009, at 1 Crystal Lake Road, Groton. Free. The day will feature a scavenger hunt, design a LEGO submarine, use signal flags to spell a name. build an aluminum foil boat, create a submarine patch. Museum admission and all activities are free. Information, www.ussnautilus.org.

Square Dance Hoedown in the Bank Barn will be held at 7:30 p.m., July 17, 2009, at the Bank Barn, Blue Slope Country Museum, 138 Blue Hill Road, Franklin. Admission is $5 per person, $20 per family. Caller is Joe LoPresti and His Country Friends.

First Friday Happy Hour The First Friday Happy Hour at the Goodspeed Opera House, East Haddam, includes an introductory talk by a member of the creative staff, appetizers and specially priced wine, beer and cocktails, at the 7 p.m., July 17, performance of “Camelot.” Free with a ticket to the performance. Information, www.goodspeed.org/events.aspx?id=296.

Teen Night at Goodspeed Introduce a favorite young person to the magical of musical theater at 8 p.m., July 17, 2009, at the Goodspeed Opera House, East Haddam. For each adult who buys a regular ticket for the evening performance may purchase a $15 ticket for a child age five to 18. Meet the cast aster the show for autographs. Information, www.goodspeed.org/tickets.aspx?id=78.

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Lake Zoar Authority The Lake Zoar Authority – Monroe, Oxford, Newtown and Southbury – is sponsoring a Boating Safety Awareness Day at the CT State Boat Launch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 18, 2009. Members of the Marine Police from all four towns will be present as well as state police. The Chief of Police from Newtown will speak at noon about safety tips on the water. The boat launch is located on Scout Road in Southbury, off Lakeside Road.

Appreciation Days East Windsor residents will receive half-price admission on July 18 and 19, 2009, at the CT Trolley Museum in East Windsor. Ride authentic trolley cars as many times as you like, dine in the snack bar, shop in the gift shop and visit the CT Fire Museum. Information, www.ct-trolley.org.

Veterans’ Ball The first “No Veteran Left Behind” Ball will be held July 18, 2009, at The Inn at Villa Bianca, 312 Roosevelt Drive, Seymour. A social hour begins at 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner. Tickets are $50 per person with a cash bar. Contact 203-446-2326 or 203-906-0533 for tickets or novetleftbehind@hotmail.com.

Wine and Beer Tasting A Wine and Beer Tasting to benefit CATALES will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., July 18, 2009, at It’s Only Natural, 386 Main Street, Middletown. The cost is $20 and all profits will help to assist in the care and adoption of homeless animals. Reserve tickets at 860-344-9043 or at www.catales.org.

Summer Celebration Northeast Placement Services will host a Family Fun Day with pony rides, face painting, a dunking booth, race cars, Tae Qwon Do exposition, clowns, jugglers, water balloon sling shot, hay rides, children’s games, state police K-9 demonstrations, vendors, food and more. It will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., July 18, 2009, at the Woodstock Fairgrounds, Route 169, South Woodstock. A chicken barbecue will be available for $8 per person and includes chicken, baked beans, salad and a beverage. Proceeds benefit the program and facility enhancements at Northeast Placement, a non-profit organization that supports peoples with disabilities. Information, 860-963-2555.

Summer Music Festival The Mitchell Farm Summer Music Festival 2009 will be held July 18, 2009, at the farm, 300 East Haddam Road, Route 82, Salem. Gates open at 1 p.m., music from 2:30 p.m. to sunset. Admission is $30 in advance, $40 at the door. The day of music will help support the non-profit’s 24 equine retirees. Musical artists include Beaucoup Blue, Aztec Two-Step, The Pousette-Dart Band, and the Band Band. An on-going silent auction includes art, specialized services and get-aways. Food and soft drinks will be available. Bring BYOB, chairs and blankets. Mitchell Farm is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable retirement alternative for the aged or infirmed horse to live out the rest of their lives. The farm depends on fund-raising activities to provide the funds needed to support the retirees. Information, www.mitchellfarm.org, 860-303-8705.

Marine Science Spend a day experiencing marine science, both on shore and at sea, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 18, 2009, at the University of Connecticut’s Avery Point Campus in Groton. In the morning, attendees will be in the Project Oceanography lab exploring the natural history of Long Island Sound, learning to identify animal and plant life and its abundant fisheries. In the afternoon, there is a voyage out to sea on the Envirolab II research vessel. For adults and children ages 6 and older. Advance registration required, $40, $30 for members of the CT State Museum of Natural History. Bring a lunch. Information and to register, www.cac.uconn.edu/mnhcurrentcalendar.html or 860-486-5690.

Annual Rodeo Bikers Against Animal Cruelty second Annual Rodeo will be held from 1 to 6 p.m., July 18, 2009, at the Knights of Columbus, 1831 Main Street, East Hartford, sponsored by Bikers Against Animal Cruelty. Admission is $20 and proceeds benefit victims of animal cruelty. Receive a special raffle ticket for donating animal shelter items such as pet food, treats, toys, blankets, towels and cleaning supplies. The event will feature food, beverage, vendor tables, raffles, a bike show, slow race, weenie bite and tire toss. Live music by Violent Rain. Information, www.bikersagainstanimalcruelty.org, 203-432-7508.

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Open Garden The Garden Conservancy Open Days to benefit the Animal Friends of Connecticut and the Garden Conservancy, will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 19, 2009, at 71 Country Club Road, Avon. Admission is $5. Visitors will view an established 25-year-old garden of natural beauty. This artful designer’s garden has been featured in Woman’s Day, Garden and Desk Design, and Connecticut Magazine. To reach the garden, take exit 39 off I-84. From the intersection of routes 10 and 4, take a right onto Route 10 for 5.7 miles to Route 44, left and follow for 0.7 miles to Route 10 and Old Farms Road. Take a right and follow 0.3 miles to #71. Park on Tamara Circle. Information, www.afocinc.org/html/green_dreams.html.

Benefit Auction The Connecticut-based creative studio, Free-Lunch Studios, 518 Salmon Brook Road, Granby, will open its doors to the public to celebrate the life and career of cartoonist Rusty Haller, and to raise funds to help fellow artist at a challenging time of his life. Since the passing of his mother in January, Haller has fallen on tough times. He has been a professional cartoonist and illustrator since 1987. The fundraiser will feature a silent auction and raffles while displaying of Haller’s artwork. The event will be held from 2 to 6 p.m., July 19, 2009. Information, skanaras@freelunchcomics.com.

L'chaim 4 Kids! Roxbury actor Michael Lombardi will chair the fourth annual cocktail reception and silent auction to benefit the Abraham and Chava Greenstein Camp Gan Israel children's fund from 4 to 7 p.m., July 19, 2009, on the estate of Donald Greenstein in Roxbury. Camp Gan Israel was established to enable all children, regardless of religious affiliation of financial ability, to enjoy a meaningful camp experience in Northwest Connecticut. The camp choir will perform. There will be kosher cuisine and cocktails as well as distinctive wines and cocktails. The silent auction will feature many rare items including over $25,000 worth of jewelry and vacatIon get-aways. For information about the the camp or to participate in the L'chaim for Children visit www.cgiNW.org/fund or call 1-800-979-CAMP.

Operation Lobster Dinner Operation Lobster Dinner will bne held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 19, 2009, at Grossman’s Seafood, 479 Goldstar Highway, Groton. Rain date is July 26. The free dinner is for 500 military personnel and their families stationed at the Groton Sub Base. The event includes a local band, activities for children, free parkng and free shuttle bus service for those without transportation. Tickets required, call 860-694-2298. To volunteer, 860-448-9273.

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Colonial Adventure A Colonial Adventure for Kids will be offered from July 20 to 24, 2009, at the Nathan Hale Homestead, 2299 South Street, Coventry. Children ages eight to 12 will take walks and visits to local landmarks as well as recreating everyday life on the Hale Farm. Registration required. Admission is $150 per child. Call 860-742-6917. Information, www.ctlandmarks.org.

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Alzheimer’s Support To help families and caregivers better understand and treat the conditions of Alzheimer’s and dementia, The Village of Kensington Place, 511 Ken- sington Avenue, Meriden, will offer a support group at 7 p.m., the third Tuesday of every month beginning July 21. The group provides participants with an opportunity to learn more about the different stages of Alzheimer’s, offers tips on ways to cope, and provides educational and helpful discussions on a variety of behaviors, research and communication. Free, public invited. Refreshments. RSVP, 203-235-0181.

Creative Cameras Get Creative with Your Camera, a presentation by professional photographer John Scott, will be held at 6:30 p.m., July 21, 2009, at the Manross Memorial library, 260 Central Street, Forestville. Free. Topics to be covered include creative uses for a camera, how to make shots more interesting, and where to go in Connecticut for great shots. Free, registration required. Information and to register, visit the library or call 860-584-7790.

Papermaking with Nature Collect plant fibers and other materials on the Green at the Fairfield Museum and History Center to create paper. Explore bookmaking techniques to make creative books by hand using unique and interesting handmade papers. For children ages 12 to 14. It will be held from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., July 21, 2009, at the museum, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield. The cost is $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Advance registration required, call 203-259-1598, www.fairfieldhs.org.

Museum Fridays Drop into the CT State Museum of Natural History anytime between 1 and 3 p.m., Fridays, and admission is free. Participants can check out the museum’s new exhibit, “Human’s Nature,” join in a hands-on activity and explore the museum. Offered to students in grades one through five, accompanied by a parent. Information, http://www.cac.uconn.edu/mnhcurrentcalendar.html.

Watercolor Workshop A Watercolor Workshop: Garden Studies will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., July 21, 2009, at the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden, 9 Main Street, Bethlehem. The fee is $60. Botanical illustration blends art and science and will give participants a special opportunity to take a close look at the Bellamy-Ferriday gardens. Reservations required, call 203-266-7596.

Watercolor Workshop A Watercolor Workshop: Roses will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., July 21 and 22, 2009, at the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden, 9 Main Street, Bethlehem. The fee is $90. Botanical illustration blends art and science and will give participants a special opportunity to take a close look at the Bellamy-Ferriday gardens. Reservations required, call 203-266-7596.

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ALS Support Group An ALS Support Group meets from 5 to 6 p.m., on the fourth Wednesday of each month with the next meeting July 22, at the Bethel Healthcare Facility, 13 Parklawn Drive, Bethel. Free. The groups are facilitated by experienced professionals and often feature guest speakers. Those planning to attend should call Gloria English at 914-345-5062.

Sparkling Papermaking Super Sparkling Papermaking will be offered for eight to 11 year olds from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., July 22, 2009, at the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield. Create sparkly papers to use for notecards, party invitations, journals, letters and more. Make paper using creative materials. Members are $30 and non-members $35. Advance registration required, call 203-259-1598, www.fairfieldhs.org.

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Firefighter Appreciation The Firehouse Steakhouse, 412 Main Street, Middletown, will hold a Firefighter Appreciation Night from 5 to 11 p.m., July 23, 2009, to support for all firefighters. In addition, there will be a fundraiser for the CT Burn Care Foundation in Milford. There will be wing eating contests, raffles, a fire engine express for children. Information, 860-347-4440.

Seniors’ Wii Competition A Wii bowling competition between the residents of Village Gate, 88 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, and WFSB Meteorologist Mark Dixon, will be held at 2 p.m., July 23, 2009. Free. Public invited. Information, www.villagegateoffarmington.com, 860-676-8626.

Music for the Morgan The Hoolios and Honor by August are the featured acts in a new concert series at Mystic Seaport. “Music for the Morgan” presents two concerts whose proceeds benefit the preservation of the Charles W. Morgan, the last surviving wooden whaleship in the world. The Morgan is currently in the museum’s Henry B. DuPont Preservation Shipyard undergoing a three-year $5 million restoration. The Hoolios perform July 23 and Honor by August on August 20, both under the boat shed alongside the Mystic River. Concerts are from 7 to 9 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m.. Cash bar available. Tickets are $10, $7 for members and are on sale at www.mysticseaport.org/tickets, 860-572-5322 or at the museum.

Let's Talk About It Love, Forgiveness and Wisdom Author Janis Abrahms Spring will meet from 6 to 7 p.m., July 23, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street. Join Spring, a nationally acclaimed psychologist and award-winning author of "How Can I Forgive You? The Courage to Forgive, The Freedom Not To," as she addresses these questions. Light refreshments. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6295.

Let’s Talk About It “Love, Forgiveness and Wisdom Reading and Discussion Series,” will continue from 5:30 to 8 p.m., July 23, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Join Janis Abrahms Spring, Ph.D., a nationally acclaimed psychologist and award-winning author of “How Can I Forgive You? The Courage to Forgive, the Freedom Not To.” A book signing will follow. Light refreshments. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-6284.

Google Gadgets There is much more to Google than a search box. Learn about gadgets and other features in a class from 6 to 8 p.m., July 23, 2009, at the Albany Branch of Hartford Public Library, 1250 Albany Avenue, Hartford. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org

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’Les Miserables’ The Avon High School Summer Theatre comprised of over 100 students in grades seven through 12 will perform “Les Miserables” student version through July 26 at the high school. Tickets available at the door or call 860-693-6091.

’Night of the Musical Dead’ “Night of the Musical Dead” is a musical comedy inspired by George A. Romero’s cult classic. The world premiere will be held at the Hole in the Wall Theater, 116 Main Street, New Britain, at 8 p.m., July 24, with other performances scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. through August 22, and 2 p.m. August 2 and 16. Tickets are $25 donation, reservations, 860-229-3049. Information, www.musicaldead.com, www.hitw.org.

Lobster Dinner A Lobster Dinner as part of the Blue Fish Festival, will be served July 24 and 25, 2009, at Clinton Town Hall, sponsored by the Clinton Fire Department. The cost is $20 not including admission. The dinner includes lobster, baked potato, corn and cole slaw. For tickets or information, 860-669-8131.

Benefit Dinner An all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner including meatballs, sausage, salad, garlic bread and a selection of desserts, will be held July 24, 2009, at the Polish-American Veterans Club, 51 Central Ave., New London. Dinner runs from 6 to 8 p.m. followed by dancing at 8 p.m. There will also be raffles throughout the evening. Meals to go available. Admission is $10, $5 for children under 10.

’Beauty and the Beast Jr.’ Rascal Rep, the summer children’s theater program of the Little Theater of Manchester, will present Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast Jr.,” starring local children who attend the five-week program. Performances are at 7 p.m., July 24, and 1 p.m., July 25, 2009, at Cheney Hall, 177 Hartford Road, Manchester. Admission is $10. Information, www.cheneyhall.org.

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Support the Troops The Rockville Moose Lodge is collecting items to support the troops serving overseas. The lodge is asking for donations of toiletries, nonperishable food items, gloves and travel games. The collection will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 25, 2009, at the lodge, 31 Kingsbury Avenue, Tolland. Free. Information, www.rockvillemoose.com.

Summer Ballet The International Summer Ballet Academy will present a performance showcase at 2 and 7 p.m., July 25, 2009, at Lincoln Theater on the campus of the University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford. Admission is $15 general, $10 for youth, senior citizens and Let’s Go Arts Card Holders. ISBA is a premiere summer ballet school for advanced and intermediate students ages 13 to 21, housed in the new Mort and Irma Handel Performing Arts Center at the University of Hartford. Information, http://harttweb/Hartford.edu.

Mystic River Mud BandDixieland music will highlight two upcoming cruises on board Sabino from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., July 25 and August 22, 2009, at Mystic Seaport. Visitors are invited to dance while the Sabino, the museum’s steamboat, takes a downriver cruise to the Morgan Point Light in Noank. The band is a five-piece group of mostly local musicians. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be available. Tickets are $55, $45 for members and can be purchased by calling 860-572-5351.

Fish Tales, Tugs and Sails Explore the Blue Planet at this free, nautically-themed family event promoting literacy and the environment from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., July 25, 2009, during New London’s Waterfront Festival. This educational festival features famous children’s authors and illustrators, interactive performances, big boats, food vendors and children’s crafts and activities. Free. Information, www.newlondonmainstreet.org.

Rock the Vets Rock the Vets, a fundraiser to benefit the Veterans of Foreign Wars Building project will be held from noon to 10 p.m., July 25, 2009, at Martin Bishop (Firemen's) Field, 91 Long Hill Road, Guilford. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students with those under 12 free. Tickets are available at various locations in Guilford or at the gate. There will be food vendors and artisan booths. BYOB. In addition, there will be raffle prizes drawn at 8 p.m. The day will feature the talents of six bands performing from 1:30 to 7:45 p.m.

Boat Rendezvous Both power and sailing vessels will participate in the 34th annual Antique and Classic Boat Rendezvous at Mystic Seaport, July 25 and 26, 2009. The event showcases restored antique vessels built before 1965 including cruisers, sailboats, runabouts and launches. Boats will be displayed at the seaport from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25, and from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., July 26 before the vessels depart the seaport on a three-mile parade down the Mystic River. Each boat is announced as it passes through Mystic’s famous Bascule Bridge onto Noank. Spectators line the parade routes to watch the boats and their costumed crews. An award competition will recognize excellence in restoration, authenticity and workmanship. Sabino, the seaport’s 101-year-old steamboat will lead the parade. Admission is $24 for adults, $15 for children ages six to 17 with those under five free.

Conflict Reconciliation Introduction to Kingian Nonviolence Conflict Reconciliation will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. July 24, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 25, 2009, at the community room at the University of Hartford, corner of Westbourne and Albany Avenue, in the Mort and Irma Handel Performing Arts Center, Hartford. Admission is $25 per person with light refreshments. Anyone interested in reversing the cycle of escalating violence is invited to attend: social workers, teachers, police officers, students, clergy, community organizers or anyone working with young people. The program includes classifying the different types and levels of conflict and expanding on the Martin Luther King Jr.’s Six Principles of Nonviolence. To register, call 860-567-3441, e-mail vchristgau@gmail.com or mail, Victoria Christgau, PO Box 1646, Litchfield, CT 06759.

Beer/Wine Tasting The Dog Days of Summer Beer and Wine Tasting Festival will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m., July 25, 2009, at the Golden Gavel Plaza, 149 North Road, Route 140, East Windsor, sponsored by the East Windsor Dog Owners Group. The festival will feature 100 beers and 100 wines from around the world. There will be live music, food, a 50/50 raffle and auction. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance at Joe’s Fine Wines & Spirits, Golden Gavel Plaza, East Windsor; Sweet Pea Natural Pet Foods, 860 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor; East Windsor Parks & Recreation Dept., East Windsor High School, 76 S. Main Street, East Windsor. Tickets will also be available at the door, rain or shine. Open to all ages, under 12 are free.

Summer Shred '09 The Department of Consumer Protection and Shred-It are hosting a free bulk document shredding from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 25, 2009, at Manchester Community College, Lot C, Manchester, and the Sears Auto parking lot at the Westfield Meriden Mall. Free for up to 10 heavy duty trash bags will be shredded. Information, www.ct.gov/dcp or call 1-800-842-2649 for information.

5K Run/Walk The Valley of the Hartford Scottish Rite is holding a 5K Run/Walk July 25, 2009, to benefit the 32nd Degree Masonic Learning Center for Children which helps children over come the obstacles of dyslexia at no cost to their families. Registration is at 7:30 a.m., the race is at 9 p.m., from the Valley of Scottish Rite, 207 Deming Street, Newington. The run is a USATF-certified and will have electronic chip timing. Pre-registration by July 18 is $15, on race day it is $18. There will be a free CTCHIP (Connecticut Child Identification Program) event planned for parents and children. Information, www.plattsys.com, 860-304-6348.

Nature’s Fireworks See the chemistry incolved in colorful fireworks displays and learn about natural fireworks that streak through the atmosphere each night. Talk about meteors and comets and the best times to see them. There will be telescopes ready to study the sky. The program will be held from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., July 25, 2009, at The Children’s Museum, 950 Trout Brook Road, West Hartford. The cost is $8 per person for members and $10 for non-members. Advance registration recommended. Call 860-231-2830. Information, www.TheChildrensMuseumCT.org.

TibetFest 5 TibetFest 5, a celebration of Tibetan culture and a fundraiser will be held from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., July 25, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., July 26, 2009, at the Goshen Fair Grounds, Route 63, Goshen. The event will feature musicians, guest speakers, photography, a sand mandala construction, dancers, handicrafts, food and more. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students, children under 5 are free. Information, www.TibetFest.com.

Colonial Camp & Muster A Colonial Camp and Musical Muster will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 25 and 26, 2009, at the Nathan Hale Homestead, 2299 South Street, Coventry. On Saturday, the battles are at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., on Sunday, the battle begins at 11 a.m. with the fife & drum muster at noon. The event features the Nathan Hale Fife & Drum and other reenactment groups as they recreate daily life of Revolutionary War soldiers. Demonstrations include drilling, musket and cannon firing and camp cooking. In addition, there will be musical performances, house tours and children’s activities. Refreshments will be for sale. Admission is $5 for adults, children and costumed reenactors are free. Information, www.ctlandmarks,org.

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YouthQuake YouthQuake, a day of fun-filled activities designed to introduce children and youth to Christ, will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., July 26, 2009, at Keney park, Greenfield Street, Hartford. Free. There will be music, drama, sports, free health screenings, counseling, a concert and more. Information, 860-956-4892.

Bike Run The Raymond Cardinal Bike Run will be held July 26, 2009, from Senor Pancho’s, 280 Cheshire Road, Prospect. Registration is from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. departing at noon following a Blessing of the Bikes ceremony. The ride continues to the Village Green in Wallingford for snacks, returning to Senor Pancho’s for a buffet of hamburgers, hot dogs, wings and fries, raffles, prizes, games. Cars are welcome. Tee-shirts available for purchase. The fee is $20 per rider, $15 per passenger in advance; $25 per rider, $20 per passenger on event day. Proceeds benefit the Rose Hope Animal Shelter. Pre-register at maria.maccio@sbcglobal.net. Information, 860-329-1011, 203-597-7961.

Chicken Barbecue An old-fashioned Chicken barbecue, complete with live entertainment, prizes, games and competitions, will be held at the Pleasant View Cafe and Golf Center, Route 83, Somers, from 2 to 8 p.m., July 26, 2009, rain or shine. Proceeds benefit the Felician Adult Day Care in Enfield. The all-you-can-eat barbecue includes roasted chicken quarters, country stuffing, red bliss potatoes, cole slaw, pasta salad primavera, rolls and butter. The band, Off the Cuff, will provide live entertainment. Tickets are $12 per person and are available at the door or in advance at The Country Diner, Felician Adult Day Care. Advance ticket holders will be interested into a special cash prize drawing.

Benefit Motorcycle Run The Connecticut Rid to help Kids Fight Cancer 2009 will be held July 26, 2009, from Excalibur Powersports in Plainfield. Registration is from 8 to 9:30 a.m. with the start at 10 a.m. The ride will visit children at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center in Hartford and then back to Plainfield for food, a stunt show and music. Registration is $30 per motorcycle and $15 per passenger. Information, www.ctstunt.com.

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T-Bone at Manross Library Manross Memorial Library, 260 Central Street, Forestville, will present a program of fun and music to encourage summer reading with T-Bone (Tom Stankus), America’s Pied Piper at 10:30 a.m., July 27, 2009. Free but advance registration is required. Information or to register, visit the library or call 860-584-7790.

Open Computer Lab Open computer lab session will be held from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Mondays, July 27 to August 31, 2009, at Albany Branch of Hartford Public Library, 1250 Albany Avenue. Free. Ask questions, get answers, learn new skills and practice. Walk-ins welcome. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-7830.

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GOP Meeting A general meeting of the New Britain Republican Town Committee will be held at 7 p.m., July 28, 2009, with an endorsement meeting for candidates for the November municipal elections in Room 504, at City Hall. Information, www.nbrtc.com.

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Spaghetti Fundraiser A Spaghetti Supper to support the Alice Morrin Education Fund will be held from 4 to 9 p.m., July 29, 2009, at Rockville High School, 70 Loveland Road, Vernon. Donation at the door. Information, www.rockvillehighschool.org.

Summer Concert Series The public is invited to a Summer Concert Series at The Village at South Farms, 645 Saybrook Road, Middletown. The series continues with the Middletown Symphonic Band playing classical, jazz and traditional selections at 6:30 p.m., July 29, 2009. Rain date is August 5. The series continues at 6:30 p.m., August 26 with musician and dancer Brian Gillie. The audience will be treated to ragtime, swing, blues and rock ‘n roll favorites. Concerts are free and open to the public. Refreshments. RSVP at 860-344-8788.

Business Buddies Business Buddies is a social networking opportunity that benefits Best Buddies of Connecticut. The purpose is to provide an opportunity for professionals to come together and have fun for a good cause. It will meet at 5:30 p.m., July 29, 2009, at The Blue Pearl, 130 Court Street at Orange, New Haven. Donation is $10 at the door. Food and drink specials provided. Proceeds help make a difference in the lives of individuals with an intellectual disability. Information, 203-234-3996.

Summer Concerts Summer Concerts Under the Stars will be offered at Academy Point at Mystic, 20 Academy Lane, Mystic. The next concert will be held with pianist Larry Batter performing a variety of hits at 6:30 p.m., July 29. Free, open to the public, refreshments served. RSVP to 860-536-1133.

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MDA Fundraiser On July 30, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 31 Red Stone Road, Manchester, invites customers to “Mix It Up for MDA,” at a special event combining cocktails from an award-winning mixologist with new Carrabba’s food items, all to benefit the MDA. Admission is $15 per person and includes a sampling of four food items from the new bar menu and, for guests 21 years of age and older, one of signature cocktails created for the event. Information, www.carrabbas.com/Mix-It-Up-For-MDA.aspx

Riverport Festival The Cromwell Riverport Festival is a town wide festival open to the public from 6 to 10 p.m., July 30 and 31, and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., August 1 and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., August 2, 2009, on Main Street in Cromwell. There will be rides, food, music performances, vendors, business booths, civic and charitable groups, local association and more. Information, www.cromwellct.com/riverport-festival-main-page.html.

’Footloose’ in East Hartford The East Hartford Summer Youth Festival will present “Footloose” at 7:30 p.m., July 30, 31 and August 1, 2009, in the air-conditioned auditorium at East Hartford Middle School, 777 Burnside Avenue. Tickets are $10, $8 for those over 65 and 12 and under. “Footloose” is a 1998 musical based on the 1984 movie of the same name starring Kevin Bacon. Information, 860-569-2276.

Open Computer Lab Open computer lab session will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursdays, July 30 to August 27, 2009, at Albany Branch of Hartford Public Library, 1250 Albany Avenue. Free. Ask questions, get answers, learn new skills and practice. Walk-ins welcome. Information, www.hplct.org, 860-695-7380.

Word: Tabs and Tables Learn to use tabs and make tables in Word. Experience with Word is required. The class will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., July 30, 2009, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford. Free. Registration is required – in person, online or by calling 860-695-6295, www.hplct.org.

Cedar Hill Sunset Tour Learn about Cedar Hill Cemetery’s most notable residents including Samuel and Elizabeth Colt, Joseph Hopkins Twichell, Katharine Hepburn and J.P. Morgan, as the sun sets over Cedar Mountain. It will be held at 6 p.m., July 30, 2009, at the cemetery, 453 Fairfield Avenue, Hartford. The charge is $5. Information, www.cedarhillcemetery.org.

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Day Out with Thomas The Railroad Museum of New England, 242 East main Street, Thomaston, will hold “Day Out with Thomas,” from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 31, August 1, 2, 7, 8, 9. In addition to the 25-minute train ride with Thomas, there will be story-telling, videos, temporary tattoos, the Imagination Station with arts and crafts, food vendors and Thomas items for sale, photo opportunities. Tickets are $18 each and can be purchased at www.ticketweb.com, or call 866-468-7630. Visit www.rmne,.org or www.thomasandfriends.com for information. Advance ticket purchase recommended.

’The Music Man’ “The Music Man” will be performed at 7 p.m., July 31, August 1, 6, 8, and at 2 p.m., August 2, 2009, at St. Thomas Church, 830 Whitney Avenue, New Haven. Admission is by donation. Information, www.musicman09.com.