The Best of Times Online

Smiler in Southport . . .

2011-01-20T19:05:00.003-05:00

Opening Reception

Friday, January 21st, 2011
6PM to 8PM

January 8th through February 3rd
Heidi Palmer Mind Scapes

Ocean View

Heidi Palmer

24 x 20 inches

oil on canvas

Heidi Palmer has been painting New England landscapes and interiors for many years. Her work depicts quiet scenes in which the effects of various kinds of light are explored. Her paintings are often about that dream place between the real and the surreal, the line between the ordinary and the extra-ordinary.

For more information:
Southport Galleries
330 Pequot Avenue
Southport, CT 06890
Telephone:(203) 292-6124
Email:info@southportgalleries.com
www.southportgalleries.com

Smiler from Alba's . . .

2011-01-02T23:45:00.003-05:00

Alba's Ristorante

Recently Renovated

Open for 2011

Available for your next private event or special occasion, family or corporate - one or more of the dining rooms at Alba's Ristorante - Home of Fine Northern Italian Cuisine.

Alba's Ristorante can accommodate 50-120 guests in the recently renovated Main Dining Room, Library Room or "X" Room. Enjoy state of the art technology, including flat screen TV's in every dining room. Parking is available - free valet on weekends and for special events.

For more info:
Alba's Ristorante
400 North Street
Port Chester, NY 10573
Telephone: (914) 937-2236
www.albasrestaurant.com

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T00:47:00.001-05:00

Smiler from Royal Closet . . .

2011-01-01T00:45:00.011-05:00

Start the New Year off Right

- get organized!

Happy New Year to All!

Royal Closet

6 Muller Ave # B

Norwalk, CT 06851

Telephone: (203) 847-4179

www.royalcloset.com

Season's Greetings to All . . .

2010-12-24T22:37:00.002-05:00

Santa Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-12-21T20:51:00.008-05:00

Santa and his Elves

Wednesday, December 22nd

and

Thursday, December 23rd

11AM - 4:30PM

Visit with Santa and celebrate the holiday season!

Santa and one of his elves will be at the First Stamford Bank in Stamford, Connecticut.

The bank will be serving refreshments and invites the community to share in this celebration of Christmas. Join in the family fun and celebrate!

It's FREE and Open to the Public!

This is Stamford's hometown bank. - Stamford First Bank is a locally managed commercial bank committed to providing the highest possible level of customer service and added value to the community, so plan to stop by and share in the community holiday spirit.

For more information:
Stamford First Bank
612 Bedford St.
Stamford, CT 06901

Telephone: (203) 391-5777

www.stamfordfirstbank.com

Smiler Flash courtesy of The Stamford Patch.
Stay informed Like the Stamford Patch on Facebook.
Follow the Stamford Patch on Twitter.

Happy Holidays from Barnum . . .

2010-12-19T00:06:00.002-05:00

For more information:

visit www.barnum-museum.org

and/or call 203-331-1104, ext. 102.
Regular museum hours:

Wednesdays – Saturdays 10AM – 4:30PM

Sundays noon – 4:30PM

Last admission at 3:45PM

Keep up to date with all the family-friendly fun -
Like The Barnum Museum on Facebook.

Happy Holidays from Mt. Kisco . . .

2010-12-18T23:40:00.007-05:00

For more info contact:
Advanced Medicine of Mt. Kisco
37 Moore Ave.
Mt. Kisco, NY 10549
Telephone: (914) 241-7030
www.neilraffmd.com

Smiler from SAC . . .

2010-12-15T11:56:00.014-05:00

FREE Membership Dues

for LIFE

The Stamford Athletic Club will be giving away a free lifetime membership in a drawing on January 31st, 2011 as part of a new and exciting program called "Free Membership Dues for Life". There will also be rewards for all participants in the program.

All you have to do is refer someone to join (you must be present when they join), and you will receive $20 and a raffle ticket for the drawing.

The other half of the raffle ticket will go into a bin for the drawing on January 31st 2011.

What a great way to earn some money during the holidays and encourage someone to be fit!

Restrictions:
First time members; must be at least 21 years old.
Enrollment in full price yearly memberships qualifies.
Cannot be combined with other offers.

STAMFORD ATHLETIC CLUB

WHERE YOU FIT IN

For more information contact:
Donna Garofalo, General Manager
Stamford Athletic Club
75 Third Street
Stamford CT 06905
Telephone: (203) 357-7555
www.stamfordathletic.com

Keep up with all the exciting activities and fun at SAC.

Like them on Facebook!

Follow them on Twitter and

check out the SAC Blog!

Smilers at Bridgeport Library . . .

2010-12-14T22:23:00.008-05:00

Visit with Santa

Bring your Camera!

Wednesday, December 15th
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Newfield Branch
1230 Stratford Ave.
Bridgeport, CT 06607
Telephone: (203) 576-7828

Thursday, December 16th
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
North Branch
North Branch
3455 Madison Ave.
Bridgeport, CT 06606
Telephone: (203) 576-7003

Bats 101
Thursday, December 16th
6:30 PM
Black Rock Branch

Plan on visiting the colorful, dramatic photo presentation "Bats 101". You will see images of bats from tiny pups to adulthood. Join in and meet DEP and USFW Wildlife Rehabilitator and Falls Village, CT resident Linda Bowen. She will share her knowledge and experience regarding this much maligned species, so be prepared to have your "bat questions" answered.

Learn the facts and dispel the myths about our only flying mammals.

You will discover how White Nose Syndrome has decimated the bat populations and what we can expect in the near future. Join Ms. Bowen for some simple tips you can use to become Citizen Scientists to help monitor the remaining bat populations from a lawn chair in your own backyard.

This is a FREE event.
For More Information:
Black Rock Branch Library
2705 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Telephone: (203) 337-9676
Email: blackrocklibrary@gmail.com
Website: http://bportlibrary.org

Keep up with all the exciting activities -
Like them on Facebook!
Follow them on Twitter!

Smiler from Barnum Museum . . .

2010-12-09T12:38:00.007-05:00

Barnum Holiday Fest

and

Gingerbread Contest

1PM to 3PM

During the Christmas season in Connecticut, you don't have to look far to find the cherished aspects of the holiday, from one-of-a-kind ornaments and baked goods to spectacular light displays and classic colonial houses draped in snow. Bringing it all together is A Connecticut Christmas, a full color celebration of the spirit of Christmas in a quintessentially New England state. Ms. Smith has told the stories of the people and places of Connecticut for two decades and in the book she highlights the many joyful things to see and do during the holidays. She profiles some of the remarkable people who make the holiday season brighter for visitors and Connecticut residents alike.

The event begins at 1PM with a talk by Diane Smith, an Emmy-award winning television and radio journalist and author of the new book, A Connecticut Christmas. Following her talk Smith will sign autographs for anyone interested in purchasing the book for themselves, or as a holiday gift.

From 1:30PM to 3PM children of all ages will be able to learn about the traditions associated with and create crafts representative of the following winter holidays: Jewish Chanukauh, African Kwanzaa, American Christmas and Mexican Las Posadas. Victorian Christmas décor will surround guests in the People’s United Bank Gallery as they warm their spirit by sipping hot chocolate and eating cookies donated by Stew Leonard’s of Norwalk.

Guests will be able to wander among and examine David Millen’s creative, cirque themed sculpture exhibit, Celebrating the Spirit of P.T. Barnum! Energy, Balance, Vitality. The exhibition features nearly 20 of his metal and clay pieces which range in size from 40” tall to life size figures. This display will only be up through January 2nd. Visitors also will be able to find fabulous Connecticut, Barnum and circus themed gifts in the shop. On December 11th from 10AM to 4:30PM Barnum Museum members will receive a 25% discount on their entire gift shop purchase (your purchase helps support the museum).

Children need to plan ahead to participate in the third annual create a Gingerbread Village contest. For contest rules see below, visit www.barnum-museum.org or call Jaime Knoedler at (203) 331-1104 ext.102 for more details, but to qualify and be on display for the event, all entries must be delivered before 1PM on Saturday, December 11th. There is no cost to enter and the winner of the Gingerbread contest will receive a family 4-pack of tickets to see the Opening Night, January 12, 2011, 7PM performance of Disney On Ice® presents Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey at Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport. The runner up will receive a special gift bag filled with goodies from the Barnum Museum. The announcement of the Gingerbread creation winner and one runner up will take place at 2:30PM during the event. Winners do not need to be present to win and will be notified by phone or e-mail.

From 1PM to 3PM, the New York Life Insurance Company will offer their popular, safe and secure child identification program at no charge. Parents will fill out a form for their children and will walk away with a one sheet print out and a number of wallet sized versions to use as needed with friends, family, babysitters and more (Protecting families is at the core of New York Life’s mission, so they are delighted to provide the service).

Gingerbread contest Rules: Gingerbread creations should be delivered prior to 1PM on Saturday December 11th, entries will not be accepted past 1PM so they may be placed on display for the rest of the year as part of one fantastic Gingerbread village! Only children 12 and under are encouraged to enter, all entries must be made up of edible materials, the Barnum Museum is not responsible for damage to any tasty entries, and those wishing to have their creations returned, must pick them up during normal museum hours by January 9, 2011. Working from a gingerbread kit is fine. Visit your craft store or search on line to find suggestions.

What:

Barnum Holiday Fest and Gingerbread Contest, including a presentation by Diane Smith about her newest book, A Connecticut Christmas. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at $16.95 along with many other unique holiday gift ideas in the museum shop.

Where:

The Barnum Museum

820 Main Street

Bridgeport, CT 06604

When:

Saturday, December 11th from 1PM - 3PM

Cost:

Program Admission: Adults and Seniors: $5, Children 4-7: $2, Under 4: Free
*Barnum Museum members are Free and Barnum Kids Club Members are Free

For more information:

visit www.barnum-museum.org

and/or call 203-331-1104, ext. 102.
Regular museum hours:

Wednesdays – Saturdays 10AM – 4:30PM

Sundays noon – 4:30PM

Last admission at 3:45PM

Keep up to date with all the family-friendly fun - Like The Barnum Museum on Facebook.

Holiday Smiler in Wilton . . .

2010-12-07T22:09:00.011-05:00

The Great Trains

December 4th to January 17th

The Wilton Historical Society’s 13th annual Great Trains exhibit features a range of makes, models and gauges of model trains rolling around curves, passing familiar local and scenic landscapes and rushing through mountain passes. Each model landscape is intricately designed by the Society’s "Trainmen" with each detail carefully crafted for all to enjoy.

Trains whistling around mountain passes, a special visit from Santa and the Christmas Tale, "Scrooge" - A Christmas Tale told through life sized marionettes are featured at the Wilton Historical Society’s celebrations this holiday season. More than just trains, the holiday exhibit includes a vast collection of toys, dolls and miniatures. Plan to join in this family-friendly fun event for the holidays!

Exhibit Hours:
Tues.-Fri: 10:00am-4:30pm; Sat: 1-4pm;
Sundays: (December 12th and 26th) 1pm – 4pm
Sundays: (January 2nd, 9th, and 16th) 1pm – 4pm
Closings: Fridays, December 24th & 31st – closing at noon;
Saturdays: December 25th & January 1st – closed
Cost: Free to children and members;

$5 suggested donation per adult non-member

Be sure to Like them on Facebook and keep abreast of all the exciting upcoming events at The Wilton Historical Society.

For more info:
Wilton Historical Society
224 Danbury Road
Wilton, CT 06897
Telephone: (203) 762-7257
info@wiltonhistorical.org
www.wiltonhistorical.org

Holiday Smiler from Branchville Motors . . .

2010-11-30T20:18:00.003-05:00

Branchville Motors & Vespa Ridgefield

Do I give it or keep it?

Give it or keep it?

Now you can do both with up to $1200 off

$1200 off a Vespa GTV

$1000 off a Vespa GTS 250 or GTS Super 250

$500 any new carbureted 150cc Vespa

$400 off any two-valve LX 50

$1400 off a Piaggio MP3 400 or MP3 500

$1000 off a Piaggio MP3 250

Be sure to check out the Vespa Classic Dilemma Promotion and the Piaggio MP3 Holiday Promotion for more details. Offer good through Decemeber 31st.

For more information contact:
Branchville Motors
63 Ethan Allen Hwy., Route 7
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Telephone:(203) 544-7900

Email: ben@branchville.com
Website: www.branchville.com

Join them on Facebook, follow their Blog and be sure to visit their ebay store!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T09:43:00.002-05:00

Get Ready for the Holidays!

2010-11-25T09:42:00.002-05:00

Medi-Weightloss Clinics® is a physician supervised program that uses a FDA approved appetite suppressant, a diet plan, and moderate exercise to help you shed unwanted pounds and keep them off!

You can achieve your desired weight loss in less time than you thought possible, so get ready for a holiday season with a slimmer you!

For more information contact:

Greenwich Medi Weightloss Clinic

Raymond Sekiguchi, MD

222 Railroad Ave.

Greenwich, CT 06830

Telephone: (203) 863-0933
www.mediweightlossclinics.com

Smiler from Lakeside Pottery . . .

2010-11-25T09:19:00.006-05:00

Unique Holiday Gifts
$10, $15 and $25 Pottery Sale
December 5th, 2010
12Noon - 5PM

Lakeside Pottery is making room on their studio shelves for new work and have decided to sell a large inventory of handmade pottery and ceramic art for $10, $15 and $25. All work is wheel thrown or handbuilt art and will be priced to sell. Items sold are bowls, vases, pitchers, boxes, platters, and much more. Great gift ideas for the holidays.

They are offering 10% off of beginner potter's wheel classes if you spend over $100 (Please note that the offer is only for those who have not taken classes with them before). Gift certificates for classes, programs and art are available.

Refreshments will be served and potter's wheel demonstrations will be conducted on request. There will be additional pottery pieces available in the gallery at regular prices. Drop by for a visit! Like them on Facebook!

Be sure to check out the 2011 Pottery Program Schedule.

For more information:
Lakeside Pottery
543 Newfield Avenue
Stamford, CT 06905
Telephone: (203) 323-2222
Email: studio@lakesidepottery.com
Website: www.lakesidepottery.com

Stamford Smilers . . .

2010-11-20T13:09:00.009-05:00

The 17th Annual

UBS Parade

Spectacular

Sunday, November 21, 2010

12 Noon

Join in the family-friendly fun! Bring your family and friends to one of the largest events of its kind in the country (Last year it drew over 100,000 people, not only Stamford residents, but also, spectators from the surrounding region and even nearby states).

On Sunday at noon, the 17th annual UBS Parade Spectacular, one of the country's largest balloon parade, kicks off in downtown Stamford, CT. There will be 18 giant helium balloons: Beetle Bailey, Big Bird, Billy Blazes, Bob the Builder, The Cat in the Hat, Cookie Monster, Elmo, Fred Flintstone (new this year), Kermit the Frog, Teenage Mutant Turtle Leonardo, Mr. Potato Head, Odie, Oscar the Grouch, Paddington Bear, Popeye, Scooby Doo (new this year), Super Grover, and Underdog.

Don’t miss Grand Marshal, New York Knicks Legend, John Starks and the Master of Ceremonies, Alan Kalter from the Late Show with David Letterman. Award winning marching bands will add to the excitement of the day. The Westhill and Stamford High School marching bands will march along with bands including Harrison, Norwalk, Trumbull, Brentwood, Uniondale High Schools and the NYPD Emerald Society Pipe & Drum Band - plus other marching bands from all over Connecticut, New York and Guatemala.

The parade route starts on Summer Street at Hoyt and ends on Atlantic Street.

For more information visit:

www.stamford-downtown.com

and/or Join them on Facebook!

**And don’t miss the Balloon Inflation Party sponsored by SAC Capital Advisors, LP on Saturday, November 20 from 3-6pm on Hoyt Street at Summer. Get a backstage look at the balloons as they come to life. Music, parade talent and costumed characters will greet and delight spectators. Enjoy!

Smiler in Westport . . .

2010-11-16T09:13:00.003-05:00

A BIG SMILER WELCOME

to one of our newest clients!

Westport Modular Homes

Westport Modular Homes LLC is the leading supplier of modular homes in Connecticut. They have been making dreams come true for the past 15 years in Fairfield County. Visit them on the web at www.westportmodular.com, take a virtual tour of a few of the modular homes they have built and have fun building your own home online. Enjoy the Smiles . . .

Smilers for Opera Lovers . . .

2010-11-12T09:30:00.012-05:00

Don Pasquale

Saturday, November 13th

1 PM

The Met Live in HD is a new series being presented by The Ridgefield Playhouse in concert with their 10th anniversary season.

The first presentation in the series is Donizetti’s Don Pasquale starring John Del Carlo in the title role and Anna Netrebko in this opera buffa (comic opera).

Expected running time:
3 hours, 15 minutes

The Playhouse’s opera season will run through May 2011.

Tickets are $25 for adults,

$20 for members, seniors and students.

For more information:

Call the box office: (203) 438-5795

Visit: www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org

Main Library
One Public Library Plaza
Stamford, CT 06904
Telephone: (203) 964-1000

www.fergusonlibrary.org

Chamber Opera Performance

Saturday, November 13th

7:30 PM

UCONN Dept of Music and Dramatic Arts presents free performance of one act chamber opera, The Wooden Sword. Winner of the Raymond and Beverly Sackler Prize in Music Composition for Opera.

The performance is free and will last about an hour.

The opera will be sung in English.

For more information on event:

Producer Robert Miller at (860) 486-4783

and/or visit:

Ferguson Library
One Public Library Plaza
Stamford, CT 06904
Telephone: (203) 964-1000
www.fergusonlibrary.org

Greenwich Library
101 West Putnam Avenue
Greenwich, CT 06830
www.greenwichlibrary.org

Opera Box

Sunday, November 14th

3 PM

Laurence Gilgore, General Director and Principal Conductor of the Connecticut Grand Opera and Orchestra, will present Greenwich Library's first exploration into the magnificent world of opera.

The program is designed to enlighten the aficionado as well as the curious beginner. Maestro Gilgore's insights, historical examples, select film clips, and talented guest performers will present opera as a truly inspirational and timeless art form.

Plan to experience, this first, in a possible series of Opera Box events to be held here at Greenwich Library.

All are welcome to this free program.
No reservations necessary.

For more information contact:

Michele Martin

Telephone: (203) 625-6533

Greenwich Library
Cole Auditorium
101 West Putnam Ave.
Greenwich, CT 06830

Veterans Day . . .

2010-11-11T09:32:00.003-05:00

2010 Veterans Day Poster

The poster was designed by Ron Bergan, of the Greater Los Angeles VA Healthcare System. The Veterans Day National Committee selected his design from more than 40 submissions as part of a national poster search. Ron Bergan’s poster was inspired by a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.

See the poster artwork thru the years - visit the Veterans Day Poster Gallery.

Smiler in Bridgeport . . .

2010-11-11T09:00:00.002-05:00

Follow The Bridgeport's Art Trail

November 10 thru 14

More fun for the family and friends. Visit visual arts venues throughout the city of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Meet the artists, tour open studios, follow a historic walking tour of downtown art and architecture. Enjoy!

19 Locations to Explore:

American Fabrics Arts Building
51 Crescent Street
BACC
Arcade Windows
Read's ArtSpace
The Center for Public Art and Design
Rainy Faye
Playhouse on the Green
Gallery 999, City Hall Annex
Barnum Museum
City Lights Gallery
Bridgeport Public Library
Housatonic Museum of Art
Space
The Gallery of Black Rock
FrameMakers
The Nest
Public Art & a Party

Follow the Bridgeport Art Trail on Facebook!

For more info:
Telephone: (203) 334-7748 and/or
Visit: www.citylightsgallery.org

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-11-09T08:59:00.003-05:00

Visions of Gingerbread:

The Sweetest Architects!

November 6th - December 5th

9 AM - 5 PM

Join in the fun! See the second annual display of unique and amazing gingerbread creations at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center. Creative confections from some of the area's best pastry chefs, restaurants, and caterers will be on display for all to enjoy.

These wonderful, creative confections, consisting completely of edible materials, can be yours to take home, as they will be put up on the silent auction block. The auction proceeds will benefit Stamford Museum and Nature Center's educational mission.

Visitors may vote for Fan Favorite at the Museum. The auction will close on December 5, 2010.

Members: Free

Non-members: Free with gate admission.

For more information:

Telephone: (203) 322-1646

E-mail: info@stamfordmuseum.org

and/or visit: www.stamfordmuseum.org

Daylight Savings Time . . .

2010-11-07T10:04:00.006-05:00

Mark your calendar smilers . . .

2010-11-03T23:12:00.011-04:00

Great Movies You Might Have Missed

Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Thursday, November 4th

6:30 PM

Black Rock Branch

Join in on the fun for the next in the series of monthly screenings of some of the most highly regarded movies of all time. Don’t miss this month’s comedy classic.

“Steve Martin had no reason to panic…until John Candy came along.”

Steve Martin, John Candy, Laila Robins
Paramount Pictures; Directed by John Hughes
Rated R; 93 minutes; 1987

Every traveler’s nightmare becomes real in this road trip comedy. All Neal Page (Steve Martin) wants to do is get home for the Thanksgiving holidays. But his road home is filled with u-turns and pitfalls. When Neal is befriended by loud and annoying Del Griffith (John Candy) things go from bad to worse.

Free and open to the public.

For more information contact:

John Soltis
Community Librarian
Black Rock Branch Library
2705 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
(203) 337-9676
jsoltis@bridgeportpubliclibrary.org

History Center at the

Bridgeport Public Library

Celebrates 75 Years

Wednesday November 10th, 2010

4 PM

Mary Witkowski, head of Bridgeport Public Library’s History Center, announces the kick-off of the department’s 75th anniversary. The event begins Wednesday, November 10th at 4 PM in the library’s third floor Burroughs-Saden Gallery.

An exhibit called Bridgeport Nostalgia featuring photographs, maps and memorabilia from the Robert Factor Collection will be on display. The public is then invited to take part in a brief guided stroll of downtown provided by historian Charles Brilvitch. The tour will arrive at the beautifully restored Arcade Building on Main Street. From 5-7 PM the Arcade Building opens an exhibit, Downtown Memories, of seldom seen photos from the History Center’s collection depicting downtown images from the early 20th century.

The History Center at the Bridgeport Public Library originally opened its doors in November 1935 for the Centennial of Bridgeport, which occurred in 1936. Witkowski explains, “For three-quarters of a century the library has collected and preserved the photographic history of the city. These wonderful photos evoke the energy and spirits of Bridgeport’s storied past.”

The Arcade Building photo exhibit is sponsored by the Bridgeport History Center, Aquarion and Bridgeport Arts & Culture Council. This free event is open to the public.

For more info contact: Call the History Center at the Bridgeport Public Library (203) 576-7417. The Library is located at 925 Broad Street, Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Be sure to take a look at City Historian Mary Witkowski’s local history blog, the Curious Historian.

FluShots

Tuesday, November 16th

4 PM – 6 PM

Black Rock Branch

CVS will be offering flu shots at the Black Rock Branch Library on Tuesday, November 16th from 4 PM to 6 PM. CVS will bill your insurance provider; just bring insurance co-payment. Otherwise, the cost is $29.95. Flu shots are available to anyone 18 years of age or older.

Everyone getting a flu shot will also receive a free CVS goodie bag.

Sign up at the Black Rock Branch or give the library a call at (203) 337-9676.

Book your appointment soon, spaces are limited!

For more information contact:

John Soltis
Community Librarian
Black Rock Branch Library
2705 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
(203) 337-9676
jsoltis@bridgeportpubliclibrary.org

A Gathering Place for the Entire Community

Relaxing Smiler . . .

2010-11-02T22:31:00.001-04:00

Wednesdays in November

Guided Meditation

November 3rd, 10th and 17th, 2010

6 PM - 7:30 PM

Reiki Master Karen Pirhalla leads this weekly guided meditation program at the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center. She will help you relax, decrease your stress levels, restore your energy and bring calm and balance to your life.

Guided Meditation Instructor:
Karen Pirhalla, Reiki Master

Fee: $5.00/session
Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center
111 Beach Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
Telephone: (203) 255-5300
Pre-registration required.

National Diabetes Month . . .

2010-11-02T22:06:00.009-04:00

November is National Diabetes Month

STOP DIABETES

According to the American Diabetes Association, 23.6 million children and adults in the U.S. have diabetes. In addition, 57 million Americans have pre-diabetes and are at risk for developing either Type I or Type II diabetes.

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in America. It is closely linked to heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease, nervous system disease and amputation. In fact, adults with diabetes have heart disease death rates about two to four times higher than adults without diabetes and are at a two to four times greater risk for stroke.

Symptoms

The symptoms of diabetes are often very subtle. However, early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the effects of diabetes later on.

Symptoms frequently include:

Type 1 Diabetes

Frequent urination
Unusual thirst
Extreme hunger
Unusual weight loss
Extreme fatigue and irritability

Type 2 Diabetes

Any of the Type I symptoms
Frequent infections
Blurred vision
Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
Tingling/numbness in the hands/feet
Recurring skin, gum or bladder infections

(Source: www.diabetes.org)

**Presidential Proclamation--National Diabetes Month

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-29T22:39:00.003-04:00

It's National Vegetarian Month . . .

2010-10-12T17:06:00.004-04:00

October

National Vegetarian Month

Whether you are a full-blown vegetarian, or simply realize the important role fresh fruits and veggies play in your overall health, why not enjoy the benefits of taking a few days off meat to celebrate National Vegetarian Month? - One of our favorite clients, Navaratna, would love to help you celebrate and introduce you to their fabulous vegetarian dishes.

They are rather popular, so you may want to call ahead for a reservation. Enjoy! Celebrate!

Navaratna
133 Atlantic St
Stamford, CT 06901-2424
Telephone: (203) 348-1070

www.navaratnact.com

For more info check out:

World Vegetarian Day

NAVS.org

Smiler in Greenwich . . .

2010-10-09T13:52:00.005-04:00

29th Annual

Outdoor Arts Festival

at the

Bruce Museum

Saturday and Sunday

October 9th & 10th

10AM to 5PM

This juried event features nearly a 100 artists selected from across the country. Paintings, photography, drawings, prints, sculptures, mixed media pieces and more will be on display and available for purchase.

The festival also includes live music on both days as well as many fun, educational family friendly fun activities and a variety of food choices. Children are invited to participate in special art and craft activities at no extra charge.

The Museum is open during Festival hours.

Festival admission is $8 and includes general admission to the Bruce Museum.

Admission is free to members and children under 5.

For more information:

Bruce Museum
1 Museum Drive
Greenwich, CT 06830-7157
Telephone: (203) 869-0376
www.brucemuseum.org

Smiler in Bridgeport . . .

2010-10-07T22:08:00.005-04:00

2nd Annual

Green Market Exposition

Friday, October 8th &

Saturday, October 9th, 2010

at The Barnum Museum
820 Main Street, Bridgeport CT
RSVP

FREE ADMISSION!!
Samples!! Drawings!!
Over 40 Sustainable Exhibits
Speakers, Panels, Workshops,
Special Features & much more!

The Green Market Exposition is an annual community event which provides support, information and resources for sustainable living throughout Connecticut and supports a Green Market Economy.

This is a two-day, family friendly fun event. Learn how you can save money and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Talk with experts that can answer your questions about going green. The Barnum Museum will feature over 40 businesses and organizations, as well as offer the public free admission to panels, workshops and speakers who are leaders in green business development and green job career paths in Bridgeport, CT.

For more information contact:
Daphne Dixon
Green Market Exposition

The Barnum Museum
820 Main St.
Bridgeport, CT 06604
Telehone: (203) 536-4695
Email: daphnedixon@mac.com

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-10-06T19:46:00.008-04:00

The Ferguson Library and the Stamford Art Association (SAA) are launching a new partnership to showcase art in the Main Library’s newly renovated Auditorium Gallery.

Featuring local artists celebrating

Stamford in their work.

Opening Reception

"Stamford"

Thursday, October 7, 2010

5PM - 7PM

Free and Open to the Public

This is the first of an ongoing series of exhibits at the Ferguson Library that the will be curated by the Stamford Art Association (SAA). For information on upcoming shows, contact the Stamford Art Association at (203) 325-1139, and/or visit their website, www.stamfordartassociation.org.

Location of exhibit:
Ferguson Library Gallery

96 Broad St
Stamford, CT 06901-2317
telephone: (203) 964-1000
www.fergusonlibrary.org

Plan to share in the art adventure - mark your calendars and join in the fun! Participate in the next show.

Free Stamford Walking Tour
Saturday, October 16th

1:30PM-2:30PM
(RAIN DATE: Sunday October 17th)
Reservation required via:

telephone: (203) 325-1139 and/or

email: stamfordartassn@optonline.net

Renee Kahn, noted artist and architectural historian, will be leading a tour of the downtown Stamford National Register Historic District. Participants are invited to return to the sites to photograph, sketch or paint. Resulting artwork may be submitted for an upcoming exhibit entitled Facades, opening in the Ferguson Library gallery on January 7th, 2011.

For more info contact:

Stamford Art Association
39 Franklin St.
Stamford CT 06901
telephone: (203) 325-1139 and/or

email: stamfordartassn@optonline.net

Smiler Alert . . .Take a break . . . Celebrate . . .

2010-10-06T10:40:00.006-04:00

Mad Hatter Day!

October 6th

Mad Hatter Day is uncommon nonsense: the nonsense we usually have to pretend is sane can be called madness for one day in the year; the superficially crazy things that really make sense can be called sane on Mad Hatter Day. Basically, it's a day for silliness, like the silliness that abounds as Alice joins the Hatter, March Hare and Dormouse for tea.

The date was chosen from The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland, wherein the Mad Hatter is always seen wearing a hat bearing a slip of paper with the notation "In this style 10/6". source (1)

For more information visit: Mad Hatter Day

Join in the celebration Like them on Facebook!

Smiler from Black Rock . . .

2010-10-03T22:23:00.013-04:00

It is Back by Popular demand

Free

Italian Language Classes for Beginners

Wednesdays starting October 6th, 7:30 PM

Want to learn Italian but never had a chance? Going to Italy soon?

A weekly series of four conversational Italian classes will be offered at the Black Rock Branch Library starting on Wednesday October 6th. Classes will run from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

The classes will be conducted by Black Rock’s own Rob Foley, who has come up with his own material and method for quick learning.

Space is limited, so make your reservation by contacting Rob at (203) 820-5120 and/or the Black Rock Branch Library at (203) 337-9676.

What: Intro to the Italian Language Offered at the Black Rock Branch Library
When: October 6th from 7:30 to 8:30 PM
When: October 13th from 7:30 to 8:30 PM
When: October 20th from 7:30 to 8:30 PM
When: October 27th from 7:30 to 8:30 PM
Why: The Italian language is one of the most beautiful in the world. Ci vediamo!

For more information visit:
Black Rock Branch Library
2705 Fairfield Ave.
Bridgeport, CT 06605

or contact:
John Soltis
Community Librarian
Black Rock Branch Library

Telephone: (203) 337-9676
Email: jsoltis@bridgeportpubliclibrary.org

*map image source (1)

Celebrate Stamp Collecting . . .

2010-10-03T21:23:00.010-04:00

October

National Stamp Collecting Month

Since 1981 the U.S. Postal Service has designated the month of October as National Stamp Collecting Month (NSCM). Developed to introduce children ages 8-12 to this popular and educational hobby, the NSCM program is also intended to raise awareness about the recreational benefits of stamp collecting among all age groups.

Stamp collecting can be a lifetime hobby. It’s fun and educational for all ages, and it’s easy to start your own collection without a big investment.

On July 16, 2010 the U.S. Postal Service celebrated five iconic American newspaper comic strips with their dedication of the Sunday Funnies postage stamps.

The 44-cent first-class commemorative stamps honor Archie, Beetle Bailey, Dennis the Menace, Garfield and Calvin and Hobbes.

Of course, we are very happy to celebrate with the Beetle Bailey Stamp. We certainly hope it finds a home in your stamp collection too.

Be sure to visit the National Stamp Museum and/or the Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History - you might just discover why so many folks have a passion for stamp collecting.

For more information on Stamp Collecting visit: USPS Postal Store/Education.

For more on National Stamp Collecting Month, visit: www.linns.com.

Smiler in Westport . . .

2010-09-29T23:07:00.007-04:00

Westport Arts Center
Presents
Meet the Filmmaker
Pilot Program

Friday, October 1st, 2010
7 PM

Westport Arts Center will present a pilot program, Meet the Filmmaker, featuring the 1968 animated film The Yellow Submarine, with music by The Beatles, on Friday, October 1, at 7 PM.

The movie was produced by Al Brodax of Weston, who will introduce the award-winning work and talk about its production with the audience and moderator Sumner Jules Glimcher, emeritus professor of New York University.

A reception with wine and hors d'oeuvres will begin at 6:30 PM.

The film screening will begin at 7 PM.
Suggested donated is $10 at the door.

RSVP with your name and the number of people who will attend here.

For More Information:

Westport Arts Center
51 Riverside Avenue
Westport, CT
Telephone: (203) 222-7070
Email: info@westportartscenter.org
Website: www.westportartscenter.org

World Rabies Day . . .

2010-09-28T13:40:00.004-04:00

Thumbs up to the South Wilton Veterinary Group for all their good works and spreading the news/information on World Rabies Day!

The world is again joining together on September 28th to raise awareness and understanding about the importance of rabies prevention. Rabies is the oldest and deadliest disease known to mankind.

The Global Alliance for Rabies Control and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention invite you to join participants from more than 50 countries for a series of webinars on Tuesday, September 28th, 2010.

Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted to animals and humans. The disease is transmitted mainly by bite, but exposure may also occur through contamination of broken skin or mucous membranes with saliva from an infected animal. Once neurological symptoms of the disease develop, rabies is fatal to both animals and humans. The good news is that rabies is easily preventable.

“Rabies is primarily a disease of children, who are particularly at risk from this terrible disease, due to their close contact with dogs, the major global source”, said Dr. Debbie Briggs, Executive Director of the Alliance for Rabies Control. “Children are more likely to suffer multiple bites and scratches to the face and head, both of which carry a higher risk of contracting rabies. Children are often unaware of the danger that dogs transmit rabies and may not tell their parents when a bite, lick, or scratch has occurred from an infected animal”, says Briggs. quote source (1)

For more info and to view the webinars visit:

www.worldrabiesday.org

World Rabies Day is an excellent time to take steps that can help prevent and control rabies, such as vaccinating pets including dogs and cats and providing education on how to avoid the animals that typically transmit rabies: raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes. So, thanks again to the South Wilton Veterinary Group - You can Like them on Facebook and/or Follow them on Twitter.

South Wilton Veterinary Group
51 Danbury Road
Wilton, CT 06897
Telephone: (203) 762-2002
www.southwiltonvet.com

It's Banned Book Week . . .

2010-09-26T08:47:00.011-04:00

It is Banned Book Week!

September 25 − October 2, 2010

Celebrate Your Freedom To Read

At Your Local Library . . .

Here is a list of public libraries in Fairfield County, Connecticut. They are a wonderful resource for all to enjoy . . . so, make it a point to visit your local library this week . . .

Bethel Public Library
189 Greenwood Ave.
Bethel, CT 68012
Phone: (203) 794-8756
www.bethellibrary.org

Bridgeport Public Library
925 Broad St.
Bridgeport, CT 66044
Phone: (203) 576-7777
www.bportlibrary.org

The Brookfield Library
182 Whisconier Road
Brookfield, CT 68043
Phone: (203) 775-6241
www.brookfieldlibrary.org

Danbury Public Library
170 Main St.
Danbury, CT 68107
Phone: (203) 797-4505
www.danburylibrary.org

Long Ridge Library
191 Long Ridge Rd.
Danbury, CT 68108
Phone: (203) 748-1011
(No website)

Darien Library
35 Leroy Ave.
Darien, CT 68204
Phone: (203) 655-1234
www.darienlibrary.org

Easton Public Library
691 Morehouse Rd.
Easton, CT 66129
Phone: (203) 261-0134
www.eastonlibrary.org

Fairfield Public Library
1080 Old Post Rd.
Fairfield, CT 64305
Phone: (203) 256-3155
www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org

Pequot Library Association
720 Pequot Ave.
Fairfield, CT 64901
Phone: (203) 259-0346
www.pequotlibrary.com

Greenwich Library
101 West Putnam Ave.
Greenwich, CT 68305
Phone: (203) 622-7900
www.greenwichlibrary.org

Perrot Memorial Library
90 Sound Beach Ave.
Greenwich, CT 68701
Phone: (203) 637-1066
www.perrotlibrary.org

Edith Wheeler Memorial Library
733 Monroe Turnpike
Monroe, CT 64681
Phone: (203) 452-2850
www.ewml.org

New Canaan Library
151 Main St.
New Canaan, CT 68405
Phone: (203) 594-5000
www.newcanaanlibrary.org

New Fairfield Free Public Library
2 Brush Hill Rd.
New Fairfield, CT 68121
Phone: (203) 312-5679
www.newfairfieldlibrary.org

Cyrenius H. Booth Library
25 Main St.
Newtown, CT 64702
Phone: (203) 426-4533
www.chboothlibrary.org

East Norwalk Library
51 Van Zant St.
Norwalk, CT 68551
Phone: (203) 538-0408
www.eastnorwalklibrary.org

Norwalk Public Library
1 Belden Ave.
Norwalk, CT 68503
Phone: (203) 899-2780
www.norwalklib.org

Rowayton Library
33 Highland Ave.
Norwalk, CT 68531
Phone: (203) 838-5038
www.rowayton.org

Mark Twain Library
Rte 53 And Diamond Hill Rd
Redding, CT 68751
Phone: (203) 938-2545
www.marktwainlibrary.org

The Ridgefield Library
472 Main St.
Ridgefield, CT 68774
Phone: (203) 438-2282
www.ridgefieldlibrary.org

Plumb Memorial Library
65 Wooster St.
Shelton, CT 64846
Phone: (203) 924-1580
www.plumblibrary.org

Sherman Library Association
1 Sherman Center
Sherman, CT 67840
Phone: (860) 354-2455
www.biblio.org/sherman

The Ferguson Library
One Public Library Plaza
Stamford, CT 69042
Phone: (203) 964-1000
www.fergusonlibrary.org

Stratford Library Association
2203 Main St.
Stratford, CT 64975
Phone: (203) 385-4166
www.stratfordlibrary.org

Trumbull Library
33 Quality St.
Trumbull, CT 66113
Phone: (203) 452-5197
www.trumbullct-library.org

Weston Public Library
56 Norfield Rd.
Weston, CT 68831
Phone: (203) 222-2665
www.biblio.org/weston

Westport Public Library
Arnold Bernhard Plaza
Westport, CT 68805
Phone: (203) 291-4800
www.westportlibrary.org

Wilton Library Association
137 Old Ridgefield Rd.
Wilton, CT 68973
Phone: (203) 762-3950
www.wiltonlibrary.org

Celebrate YOUR freedom to read during Banned Books Week, September 25 to October 2, 2010. For more information, visit www.ala.org/bbooks. Take the time to check out all the wonderful free resources available to you at the Connecticut Public Libraries, become a supporter, join in a Friends group and volunteer at your local public library.

For more information, please visit these sites:

http://learning.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/09/23/10-ways-to-celebrate-banned-books-week/?ref=books

http://bannedbooksweek.org/

http://www.myspace.com/bannedbooksweek

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Banned-Books-Week/20181651661

http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/frequently-challenged/challengesbytype/index.cfm

http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/frequently-challenged/challengedclassics/index.cfm

Smiler in Ridgefield . . .

2010-09-25T16:44:00.008-04:00

The Annual Branchville Motors

Fall Open House

Sunday, Sept. 26th

10 AM - 2 PM

Enjoy a beautiful Fall day in Ridgefield Connecticut with some really wonderful folks at Branchville Motors Annual Fall Open House.

Experience the cool warmth of heated clothing and feel free to ask questions - a representative from Gerbing's Heated Gear will be there to answer any and all your questions about electrically heated riding gear.

Get an early sneek-peak

at the new Triumph Sprint GT

And of course enjoy some great company and free food----- Plus Summer is over but the Hot Vespa Summer Sale offer is good until October 31, 2010.

Up to $1,200 Off Select Models!

Check out these special Vespa offers:

$1,200 off GTV 250
$1,000 off GTS 250
$500 off carbureted Vespa S 150, and LX 150.

*GTV 250 offer good on new and unused 2008, 2009 and 2010 models.
*GTS 250 offer good on new and unused 2008 and 2009 models.
*S 150 and LX 150 offers good on new and unused 2008 and 2009 carbureted models.

Call Alex for a

Veterans or Active Duty Discount on Triumph or Moto Guzzi

SEMPER FIDELIS

Enjoy the day, meet wonderful people and just have a great time!

For more information contact:
Branchville Motors
63 Ethan Allen Hwy., Route 7
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Telephone:(203) 544-7900

Email: ben@branchville.com
Website: www.branchville.com

Join them on Facebook, follow their Blog and be sure to visit their ebay store!

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-09-24T11:57:00.005-04:00

Arts & Crafts on Bedford

Saturday, September 25th

11 AM to 8:30 PM

Sunday, September 26th

11 AM to 6 PM

Arts & Crafts on Bedford is back for its sixth year in Stamford Downtown. The weekend event features over 75 craft and artisan boutiques on Bedford Street, which will be closed to traffic for the weekend.

Be sure to visit the Imagination Station with "hands on" activities for kids presented by the Stamford Museum and Nature Center and the Bartlett Arboretum. There will be farm animals and crafts with plenty of family-friendly fun.

And be sure to take a turn at the pottery wheel - Lakeside Pottery's instructors will demonstrate the potter's wheel and will let you or your children try it - so stop by, say hello and enjoy the weekend fun.

For More Information:

Stamford Downtown Special Services District
Telephone: (203) 348-5285
Email: dssd@stamford-downtown.com
Website: www.stamford-downtown.com

Smiler in Norwalk . . .

2010-09-22T11:37:00.007-04:00

2010 Norwalk Boat Show

35th Annual Event

Features Best in Boating

Big Deals and Fun for the Entire Family

September 23rd - 26th, 2010

10AM -6PM Daily

The northeast's premiere in-water boat show offers the newest boats, must-have gadgets and gear, plus four days of family fun on Long Island Sound. Visitors can shop the best deals of the year and find hundreds of luxury motor and sailing yachts, sport fishers, performance boats, sailboats, and the largest selection of marine accessories in the northeast.

And this year, don't miss plenty of fun attractions boaters of every age can enjoy including visiting celebrities, who will meet and greet fans throughout the show; the Affordability Pavilion, featuring boats that can be financed for less than $250 per month; and the Kids' Cove, where junior boaters can get their feet wet paddleboating on the mini-lake, go-kart racing and more. Plus, the whole family will enjoy FREE Discover Boating and Sailing rides in an idyllic setting on Long Island Sound.

Miss Geico Race Boat

Other show attractions at the 2010 Norwalk Boat Show include your opportunity to try scuba diving in DEMA’s 15,000 gallon “Be a Diver” mobile pool; meet Russell Newberry, star deckboss on the hit TV show Deadliest Catch; enjoy free Discover Boating powerboat and sailboat rides on Long Island Sound; see the Deadliest Catch-inspired Time Bandit offshore racing boat; plus take in the new History of Boating in America exhibit including an electric boat from 1899. Also don’t miss the Miss GEICO race boat; the Wing-a-Thon Wing Eating Contest; the Kids’ Cove with appearances by SpongeBob SquarePants; and more.

Location: Norwalk Cove Marina in Norwalk, CT

Tickets: $12 for adults; children 15 and under get in FREE
$2 off advance tickets purchased online through September 22, 2010

Telephone: (212) 984-7000
For more information and to pre-shop the show, visit:
BoatShowNorwalk.com

Keep up on all the latest news:

Like them on Facebook and/or

Follow them on Twitter.

Smiler in Norwalk . . .

2010-09-17T15:59:00.004-04:00

Live Green Connecticut!

September 18th-19th

11 AM - 4 PM

Family-Friendly Festival

Taylor Farm Park

Free Admission!

Free Giveaways and Samples!

150 + Businesses and Organizations participating!

Celebrate and learn to ‘Live Green’ at the two day fun filled festival for all ages!

Enjoy great food, eco-shopping, music, environmental speakers and exhibits!

See and experience businesses that are showcasing their new technology to positively impact our lives and environment. Come away with tips and ideas that will save you money!

A two day Festival to promote living green with a focus on education, sustainability, caring for our environment and our natural resources.

Live Green Connecticut! will take place at Taylor Farm Park in Norwalk, Connecticut September 18th and 19th. Featured attractions and exhibits include marine ecology and nature center exhibits, wind and solar displays, farmer’s market, hands-on kid’s activities, environmental and conservation organizations and speakers, alternative fuel vehicles, landscape and garden centers, green careers and education, holistic health, eco-art, ecofashion,
entertainment, food and beverages, and so much more!

For more information:
Taylor Farm Park
45 Calf Pasture Beach Road
Norwalk, CT 06855
Telephone: (203) 536-9377
Email: info@livegreenct.com
Website: www.livegreenct.com

Smiler in Greenwich . . .

2010-09-15T22:14:00.005-04:00

Barns & Farms: Iconic Rural Images

September 16 - October 28

Opening Reception

Thursday, September 16, 2010
6 PM - 8 PM

The Flinn Gallery hosts seven artists who depict through paintings, tapestries, sculpture and photography, Americana farm life. Works by Joan Albaugh, Alan Bull, Leonard Hellerman, Woody Jackson, Laura Nicholson, Richard Rothschild and Lloyd Toone will be on display.

Artist Talk - Saturday, September 18th at 2 PM.

The Flinn Gallery is sponsored by the Friends of the Greenwich Library.

Both events are FREE and open to the public.

For more information:
Flinn Gallery
(The Galllery is located on the 2nd floor of the Greenwich LIbrary)
101 West Putnam Avenue
Greenwich, CT 06830
Telephone: (203) 622-7947
Email: curator@flinngallery.com
Website: www.flinngallery.com

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-09-15T21:38:00.004-04:00

Opening Thursday, September 16, the Fernando Luis Alvarez Gallery presents its latest exhibit: Next Women. This will be an all-female show featuring the international in-house talent of Damla Tokcan Faro, Dina Pizzarello, Marija Pavlovska, Elena Kalman, and visiting artist, Marina Shrady. The exhibition will also feature four, rare 1966 serigraphs by renowned sculptor Louise Nevelson.

Complimentary beverages will be served.
This event is free and open to the public.

For more information:
Fernando Luis Alvarez Gallery
96 Bedford Street
Stamford, CT, 06901
Telephone: (888) 861-6791
Email: info@fernandoluisalvarezgallery.com
Website: www.fernandoluisalvarezgallery.com

Blog: http://flagallery.wordpress.com/

It's National Arts in Education Week . . .

2010-09-13T16:30:00.006-04:00

The arts serve as a critical component to a complete education and are proven to increase student academic achievement. Young people who consistently participate in comprehensive, sequential, and rigorous arts programs are:

* 4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement
* 3 times more likely to be elected to class office within their schools
* 4 times more likely to participate in a math and science fair
* 3 times more likely to win an award for school attendance
* 4 times more likely to win an award for writing an essay or poem*
*source

For more information visit: National Arts In Education Week

And Remember The Fun Doesn't End on September 18th!

October is National Arts and Humanities Month

In conjunction with the 50th Anniversary, Americans for the Arts asks why the arts matter to you with the announcement of the Why Arts Matter Video Contest. Celebrate the arts in America by creating a video that tells "Why Arts Matter" to you.

The winning video will be shown on the MTV 44 1/2 screen in Times Square, letting you share your story with thousands of people.

Key Dates for the Contest

April 1 - September 24: Submit your video
September 26 - October 8: Voting period (votes are calculated based on number of times video is viewed)
October 12: Announcement of winners to kick off National Arts & Humanities Month

For more information visit: Americans for the Arts

Check your calendars for October events!

In towns and communities across America, arts organizations are planning and developing events, celebrations and innovative programming to highlight National Arts and Humanities Month. Throughout the month of October, special events will capture the spirit that the arts and humanities bring to everyday life. In particular, cultural organizations are being asked to do the following:

Plan to participate in the month-long celebration with an already-scheduled activity or a new event, large or small, that will be free and open to the public. Events could include a free performance, lecture or reading; a behind-the-scenes tour, a workshop, a concert or a festival. An open house is a great way to invite the community to join with your organization in celebrating the month. For more ideas, see 101 Things You Can Do to Celebrate National Arts and Humanities Month.

Family Fun in Norwalk . . .

2010-09-10T12:31:00.003-04:00

33rd Norwalk Seaport Association

Oyster Festival

The festivities take place at Veteran's Park in Norwalk Harbor. There's something for all the family and friends, including headline musical entertainment performing on three stages, a children's activity area, amusement rides, arts and crafts booths, a food court, recreation and leisure demonstrations, harbor tours, an oyster pavilion, environmental and maritime displays, and so much more.

Family Day returns to the 33rd Norwalk Seaport Association Oyster Festival on Sunday, September 12, with free admission for one child ages 5-12 when accompanied by an adult with a paid admission ticket. Also on Sunday only, a $15.00 bracelet entitles youngsters to unlimited rides in Kids’ Cove between 11AM and 2PM.

In addition, many non-profit organizations in the International Food Court will offer Family Day Specials. After the Marvel Super Heroes™ 2PM show on the Main Stage, attendees can meet Spider-Man©, The Incredible Hulk©, Storm© and the Green Goblin© for autographs and photos in a First County Bank tent adjacent to the stage – First County Bank is the Family Day sponsor.

Join in for an incredible day of fun! (Oyster Fest Schedule)

For information and on-line tickets go to http://www.seaport.org/OysterFest.html

Smiler from Lakeside Pottery . . .

2010-09-10T12:07:00.005-04:00

One Day Potter's Wheel Workshop

Sunday, September 12th, 2010

10AM - 12:30PM

This 2 1/2 hour lesson was designed for the beginner and for those who have taken beginning pottery classes in the past and would like a refresher workshop. This workshop will introduce the basic skills of working with clay on the potter's wheel and will provide you with the understanding of what it takes to use the potter's wheel. No previous experience required.

View tutorial here.

Workshop will include a demonstration and hands-on clay experience.

Tools will be provided - participants need to bring their own towel.

Who: 15 year and older.

Limit: 10 students per session

Cost: $65 including material and firing fees for one pot.
Each additional pot kept and fired will have a $10 fee.

For more information:
Lakeside Pottery
543 Newfield Avenue
Stamford, CT 06905
Telephone: (203) 323-2222
Email: studio@lakesidepottery.com
Website: www.lakesidepottery.com

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-09-09T22:48:00.006-04:00

Greek Festival
Church of the Archangels
September 10, 11 & 12, 2010

Friday 5PM - 11PM
Saturday Noon - 11PM
Sunday Noon - 4PM

Bedford & Third Street

Stamford, Connecticut

FREE Admission

Greek Food - Full Bar
Live Music & Dancing
Pastries - Gifts

Raffle Drawing
at 3PM Sunday afternoon

1st Prize - $7,500
2nd Prize - $1,000
3rd Prize - $ 500

For more information:

Take Out: Telephone: (203) 348-4216
or Fax: (203) 357-8813

Smilers from Ferguson Library . . .

2010-09-08T15:28:00.016-04:00

Main Library
One Public Library Plaza
Stamford, CT 06904
Telephone: (203) 964-1000

www.fergusonlibrary.org

September Films

at the

Ferguson Library

September 9th at 12 noon

Thursday Films:

The September Issue

An unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the making of the coveted September issue of Vogue.

Directed by R. J. Cutler

2008

90 minutes

USA

FREE

September 11th at 2 pm

Second Saturday Cinema:

Me and Orson Welles

A young student finds love in the theater after being cast in a production of Julius Caesar, directed by Orson Welles.

With Zac Efron, Christian McKay and Claire Danes

Directed by Richard Linklater

Rated PG-13

2009

113 minutes

FREE

September 16th

Thursday Films:

Let the Right One

In A young boy who is bullied at school befriends the new girl in the neighborhood, but he quickly discovers she is not what she seems to be.

Rated R

With Kare Hedebrant and Lina Leandersson

Directed by Tomas Alfredson

2008

115 minutes

Sweden

FREE

September 23rd

Thursday Films:

Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg

The story of the actor, writer and broadcasting pioneer, Gertrude Berg, who for more than 25 years was one of the most prominent women in American popular culture.

Directed by Aviva Kempner

2009

90 minutes

USA

FREE

September 30th

Thursday Films:

Solitary Man

A fifty something New Yorker discovers he's not the man he wanted to be.

With Michael Douglas and Susan Sarandon

Directed by Brian Koppelman

2009

90 minutes

USA

FREE

For more information contact:
One Public Library Plaza
Stamford, CT 06904
Telephone: (203) 964-1000
www.fergusonlibrary.org

Smiler in Black Rock . . .

2010-09-06T22:28:00.005-04:00

Caregiver’s Bootcamp

with Attorney Julia Merkt

Tuesday, September 7th
6:30 PM - 8 PM

Bridgeport Library
Black Rock Branch

New caregivers are invited to learn about the legal and procedural issues that are likely to occur in taking care of elderly and/or disabled loved ones at a seminar presented by Julia Merkt. Attorney Julia Merkt is nationally recognized in the field of elder law and received the highest competency and ethics rating through Martindale-Hubble’s peer review process.

Julia Merkt will explore

· Advocacy in residential, long term care and medical settings

· Arranging for and monitoring home care services

· Assisting with relocation and evaluation of benefits available

· Coordination of medical care

· Transportation and concierge services

· Financial matters, including Medicare and Medicaid

· Conservatorship and Power of Attorney

A member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) since 1992, Attorney Merkt is also affiliated with the Connecticut Bar Association’s Elder Law Section. She is a member of the East Rock Village Association, an organization which is committed to the concept of supporting residents in aging at home. She is also involved in efforts to help the disabled achieve maximum independence in life.

This is a FREE event.

For More Information:
Black Rock Branch Library
2705 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Telephone: (203) 337-9676
Email: blackrocklibrary@gmail.com
Website: http://bportlibrary.org

Happy Labor Day!

2010-09-05T23:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday Beetle Bailey . . .

2010-09-05T22:42:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday

Beetle Bailey!!!

Beetle Bailey made his first appearance on Sept. 4, 1950 and today Mort Walker’s comic strip is enjoyed by more than 200 million readers daily in over 1,800 newspapers around the world.

It is an American comic strip set in a United States Army military post and Private First Class Beetle Bailey is the main character. It is among the oldest comic strips still being produced by the original creator.

It is a special birthday too - Beetle Bailey is celebrating his 60th Anniversary!

Smiler in Norwalk . . .

2010-09-05T22:21:00.006-04:00

Toy Boat-Making Workshop

11 AM to 3 PM

September 4th - September 26th

Saturdays & Sundays

Visit the toy boat-making area on weekends for a fun 20-minute boat-building project.

Build and decorate a toy sailboat to take home as a special keepsake of your visit.

Cost: $5 per child (plus Aquarium admission).

For more information:
Maritime Aquarium
10 North Water Street
Norwalk, CT 06854
Telephone: (203) 852-0700
Website: www.maritimeaquarium.org

Happy Birthday Mort Walker!

2010-09-03T17:47:00.004-04:00

Today is the birthday of our favorite comic artist and founder of our magazine, Addison Morton Walker (born September 3, 1923). He is best known as Mort Walker, the creator of the newspaper comic strips Beetle Bailey in 1950, and Hi and Lois in 1954.

It is a very special birthday too - this year marks the 60th Anniversary of the Beetle Bailey comic strip. It will turn 60 years old as Mort Walker turns 87. A great time to celebrate - Beetle Bailey is the longest-running comic strip to be drawn by a single cartoonist.

Mort Walker had his first comic published at the age of 11, and sold his first cartoon at 12. At 15 he worked as a comic-strip artist for a daily newspaper and by 18 he became chief editorial designer at Hall Bros. (Hallmark Cards).

"You learn just by trying and experimenting. By the time I was 14, I had my own comic strip in the Kansas City paper." - Mort Walker

"Laughter is the brush that sweeps away the cobwebs of your heart." - Mort Walker

"Seven days without laughter makes one weak." - Mort Walker

Here's to you, Mort, may your day be filled with joy and laughter.

Walker image source (1)

Smiler in Trumbull . . .

2010-09-03T17:07:00.004-04:00

Plasko's Farm 10th Annual Corn Maze

The Buzzing Bumblebee

Plasko' Farm's 10th Annual Corn Maze, "The Buzzing Bumblebee", will open on Saturday September 4th at 670 Daniels Farm Road. The maze has over 1.5 miles of trails spread over 4 acres of 10 foot high corn.

The cost to enter the maze is $7 for adults, $6 for children 13 and under and children under 3 are free. The maze is open to the general public on Fridays, from 3 PM to dusk and Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 9 AM to dusk.

The Corn Maze is open to school, corporate and non-profit groups daily during the week at special rates.

Hayrides will be available for $1 a person and pumpkins, gourds, hay, ice cream and our famous apple cider donuts will also be sold.

Plasko's Farm also donates $1 of each maze admission to St. Vincent's Hospital Swim Across the Sound Cancer Center. The corn maze will be open through October 31st, 2010.

For more information contact:
Plasko's Farm
670 Daniels Farm Road
Trumbull, CT, 06611
Telephone: (203) 268-2716
Email: plaskosfarm@aol.com
www.plaskosfarm.com

Be sure to keep up with all the Family Fun at Plasko's Farm Join in and "Like" them on Facebook!

Mark your calendars . . .

2010-09-01T18:47:00.006-04:00

Nutrition 101:

Disease Prevention

September 15, 2010

6 PM - 7:30 PM

Tea and conversation with Dr. Veronica Waks, Naturopathic Physican on disease prevention through proper nutrition. Dr. Waks will explain how diet affects all aspects of health--physical, mental and emotional. The presentation will be followed by a question/answer session.

Free Event

Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center
111 Beach Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
Telephone: (203) 255-5300

One-Day Cancer College

September 25, 2010

9AM-2PM

Bridgeport Hospital’s Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute will present its third annual One-Day Cancer College, Saturday, Sept. 25, 9AM – 2PM, at the Trumbull Marriott.

The free event will feature mini-lectures by Bridgeport Hospital physicians and other healthcare experts on a number of cancer topics, information tables and a talk by cancer survivor, motivational speaker and Mt. Everest climber Alan Hobson.

(.pdf of flyer)

Advance registration is required.
Call 1 (888) 357-2396.

Free Event

Location:
Trumbull Marriott
180 Hawley Lane
Trumbull, CT 06611
Telephone: 1 (888) 357-2396

For more information, please call:
(203) 255-5300 (Fairfield location)
and/or
(203) 384-3392 (Bridgeport Hospital location)
and/or visit www.bridgeporthospital.org

Beetle Bailey Smiler from USPS . . .

2010-08-26T23:28:00.008-04:00

USPS Unveils New Stamp

at Mizzou

Featuring Beetle Bailey

The U.S. Postal Service is honoring a classic cartoon character with mid-Missouri roots at a ceremony on the University of Missouri campus.

The University of Missouri is hosting an event to commemorate the recently released Beetle Bailey postage stamp. A stamp depicting sad-sack soldier Beetle Bailey and Sgt. Orville Snorkel, is part of the new "Sunday Funnies" series released in July 2010. The other stamps in the series feature Calvin and Hobbes, Archie, Garfield and Dennis the Menace.

The 60-year-old cartoon's creator is Mort Walker, a 1948 MU graduate. He based many of the early characters on his fraternity brothers. The cartoon's setting of Camp Swampy is loosely based on Mort Walker's Army stint at Camp Crowder near Neosho.

The Beetle Bailey stamp release coincides with the 11th anniversary of the campuswide Mizzou Botanic Garden. A statue of Beetle Bailey that pays homage to Mort Walker is part of one of the campus gardens.

A ceremony is set for 11 AM Friday, August 27th, outside the Reynolds Alumni Center, where the Beetle Bailey statue welcomes visitors.

Guests at the event will include Mort Walker’s assistant, Bill Janocha, Chancellor Emeritus Richard Wallace, Columbia’s Postmaster Cindy Bolles, and a costumed Beetle Bailey himself.

.pdf brochure

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-08-25T09:22:00.007-04:00

Summer Restaurant Weeks

August 22nd - September 5th

Stamford, CT

Family fun and good times - bring your friends, co-workers and family members out for a tempting prix-fixe lunch or dinner at any of the 23 participating Stamford Downtown restaurants.

This year in addition to fabulous menus , Summer Restaurant Weeks has partnered with three co-sponsors: The Stamford Art Association, The Avon Theatre and Nestle Waters North America Inc. (distributors of Acqua Panna and S. Pellegrino bottled water).

So while you are enjoying a fabulous meal at any of the 23 participating Summer Restaurant Weeks restaurants, be sure to look for maritime paintings and photographs from the recent art show “The Glories of the Sea at the Stamford Art Association Gallery”. The gallery is located at 39 Franklin Street (in Stamford, Connecticut) just a block from UConn and the artwork will be available for purchase.

The Avon Theatre has generously sponsored a $2 off general admission vouchers and Nestle Waters North America has donated bottled water for all Summer Restaurant Weeks patrons.

Click to download special menus:

MENUS (L = Lunch, D = Dinner)

* following links are time sensitive to event

Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar (L&D)

Black Bear (L)

Butterfield 8 (L&D)

Capital Grille (L&D)

Capriccio (L)

Chez Jean-Pierre (L&D)

Columbus Park (L&D)

Emme of Capri (L&D)

EOS Greek Cuisine (L&D)

Kotobuki Japanese Cuisine (L&D)

Market (L&D)

Mitchell's (L&D)

Morton's (D)

Napa & Co. (L)

Quattro Pazzi (D)

Remo's Brick Oven Pizza (L&D)

SBC Downtown (L&D)

Siena (L&D)

Tengda Asian Bistro (L&D)

Telluride (L&D)

Tiernan's (L&D)

Downtown Parking Map

The 2010 Stamford Tables Summer Restaurant Weeks is presented by Stamford Downtown Special Services District (DSSD) & Stamford Tables (Stamford Downtown restaurant association) & 95.9 Fox and 96.7 the Coast.

For more information contact Jackie Wetenhall at DSSD (203) 348-5285 work or (203) 536-7859 cell and/or visit www.stamford-downtown.com.

Smiler from Earthplace . . .

2010-08-19T11:43:00.005-04:00

Family Campfire:

Moths and Other Night Fliers

Friday, August 20, 2010

7:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Enjoy a relaxing Friday summer evening with your family around the campfire at Earthplace. Larry Gall, Westport’s resident moth hunter, will lure them in with a yummy-for-moths bait so you can see the moths up close. Find out what other beetles, dragonflies, grasshoppers and other insects come out at night. For the two-legged creatures, they will provide s’more fixin’s. Bring a blanket or folding chair. Pre-registration required, children must be accompanied by an adult. It's a late night stay so you can see more moths!

$8 per member, $10 per non-member
Pre-registration required

For more info contact:

Earthplace
10 Woodside Lane
P. O. Box 165
Westport, CT 06881
Telephone: (203) 227-7253
Email: info@earthplace.org
Website: www.earthplace.org

Join them on Facebook!

Smiler from Branchville Motors . . .

2010-08-16T17:13:00.006-04:00

Royal Enfield Demo Ride

at Branchville Motors

With Ron Greene

Vice President Royal Enfield USA

Wednesday, August 18th

5 PM to 8 PM

Join in the excitement at Branchville Motors for a great evening exploring the World’s Oldest Motorcycle Brand.

Beginning at 5 PM there will be free hamburgers and hotdogs and a short presentation by Royal Enfield USA Vice President Ron Greene discussing the past, present and future of Royal Enfield.

The Royal Enfield Experience will demonstrate and introduce features of the modern Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycle line, which has recently gained a larger consumer audience thanks to broad engine and design enhancements introduced in the last year. The event also aims to introduce the heritage and rich history of the Royal Enfield marque to new enthusiasts. "We’re a motorcycle company with motorcycle riders at the helm. We want our customers to know that and to know us", says Ron Greene, VP of Sales for Royal Enfield.

After the demonstration there will be group demo rides, so that guests will get a chance to experience Enfield’s new totally revised Unit-Construction Engine for themselves. Demo Bikes will include a C5 Military, two G5s and two C5s. One of these bikes will have a lowering kit installed, and two will have performance exhausts.

For more information contact:
Branchville Motors
63 Ethan Allen Hwy., Route 7
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Telephone:(203) 544-7900

Email: ben@branchville.com
Website: www.branchville.com

Join them on Facebook, follow their Blog and be sure to visit their ebay store!

Smilers from Audubon Greenwich . . .

2010-08-16T16:42:00.004-04:00

Friday, August 6th

Night Hike for Bats and WNS Update

7:30 PM - 9 PM

Start with an indoor discussion about bats and the devastating white-nose syndrome (WNS) disease that is destroying whole communities of these essential members of ecosystems around the word. Learn what scientists are doing to find a cure and then hike outside to look and listen for local bats in the sanctuary.

Ages 5 & up.

RSVP required to Ted at (203) 869-5272 ext. 239.
*****

Saturday, August 7th

TRIP: Milford Point & Great Meadows IBA

in Stratford

9 AM - 2 PM

Join Brian O'Toole and others for a trip to two great birding locations known for shorebirds, herons, egrets, terns, osprey, and swallows. Pack a lunch and grab your gear.

Van and carpool leaves promptly at 9 AM so arrive early.

$12/person.

RSVP required to Brian at (203) 869-5272 ext. 221.
*****

Sunday, August 8th

Nature Photography for All

10 AM - 11:30 AM

Hike with Jeff Cordulack in search of great nature photos at the Fairchild Wildflower Garden on North Porchuck Road. The focus will be on flowers, insects and scenic photos. Ideal for learning basic composition and close-up (macro) photo techniques.

All ages. $5/person.

RSVP required to Jeff at (203) 869-5272 ext. 239.
*****

Sunday, August 8th

FILM: What's On Your Plate?

& Discussion about School Lunches

2 PM - 4 PM

School will start soon and what will be on your child's plate? Come ponder the issue while viewing this informative, kid-inspired movie about healthier, fresher, and more local foods for schools and kids. What's On Your Plate? - a film by Catherine Gund with Sadie Hope-Gund and Safiyah Riddle - is a witty and provocative documentary about kids and food politics. Over the course of one year, the film follows two eleven-year-old African-American city kids as they explore their place in the food chain. Sadie and Safiyah talk to food activists, farmers, and storekeepers, as they address questions regarding the origin of the food they eat, how it's cultivated, and how many miles it travels from farm to fork.

Sadie and Safiyah visit supermarkets, fast food chains, and school lunchrooms. But they also check out innovative sustainable food system practices by going to farms, greenmarkets, and community supported agriculture (CSA) programs. They discover that these options have a number of positive effects: they are good for the environment, help struggling farmers survive, and provide affordable, locally grown food to communities, especially lower-income urban families. The film culminates with a delicious local meal cooked by the girls and friends they have made along the way. Sadie and Safiyah formulate sophisticated and compassionate opinions about urban sustainability, and by doing so inspire hope and active engagement in others. Learn more about this film at: www.whatsonyourplateproject.org

Following the film, Audubon staff and guest speakers will discuss the status of school lunches in our region and other food-related topics relevant to children.

Suitable for all ages.

Kids are free.

Suggested donation for adults: $10.

Call Jeff at (203) 869-5272 ext. 239 to sign up.

Space is limited so be sure to RSVP and save a seat.
*****

August 14th & 15th

Sharon Audubon Festival

9 AM - 5 PM

Travel north to the Sharon Center in Northwest Connecticut to join this great family nature festival with nature walks, animal programs, music, food, activities, and displays.

All ages and worth the trip.

Call (860) 364-0520 and/or

visit www.sharon.audubon.org for event details.
*****

Sunday, August 22nd

Family Pond Exploration

2:30 PM-4 PM

Hop around the pond with Audubon staff and get up close to the tiny creatures that call the nearby pond home. Equipment will be provided.

All ages. Space limited.

RSVP to Store at (203) 869-5272 ext. 221.

*****

Jeff Cordulack
Events and Communications Manager
Audubon Connecticut/Audubon Greenwich
613 Riversville Road
Greenwich, CT 06831
(203) 869-5272 x239
(203) 613-8813 (cell)
jcordulack@audubon.org
http://greenwich.audubon.org
http://audubonct.org

Volunteer at Audubon Greenwich!

Are you looking to volunteer your time? Do you need community service hours for school? Audubon Greenwich is always in need of dedicated volunteers. Please contact Brian O’Toole at (203) 869-5272 ext. 221 to learn about upcoming volunteer events and opportunities.

Litchfield Smiler . . .

2010-08-05T13:27:00.002-04:00

Litchfield Jazz Festival

Aug 6th - Aug 8th

Kent, CT

The 15th Anniversary of the Litchfield Jazz Festival takes place August 6-8 , 2010 at The Springs Center and the Grounds of Kent School, Kent, Connecticut.

The weekend includes an opening night Friends of the Festival Gala hosted at The Morrison Gallery, three days of jazz, fine arts and craft exhibitors, master classes, a variety of food vendors and performances on a second stage by Litchfield Jazz Camp students. Tickets start at $29. Children under 12 with an adult are free on the lawn.

The Litchfield Jazz Festival is a proud production of the non-profit Litchfield Performing Arts, Inc (LPA). LPA’s internationally renowned Litchfield Jazz Festival is celebrating its 15th Anniversary August 6—8. This years Festival will be dedicated to Dave Brubeck and his 90th Birthday! The Festival will be held in the Springs Center and on the campus of the Kent School.

For additional information visit: http://litchfieldjazzfest.com

and/or call the Litchfield Performing Arts (860) 361 - 6285

Join them on Facebook!

Stamford Smilers . . .

2010-08-05T12:44:00.007-04:00

ALIVE@FIVE

Last one of 2010:

The Beach Boys

The region's hottest concert series, ALIVE@FIVE finishes the summer concert season Thursday, August 5th in Columbus Park in Stamford Downtown with The Beach Boys!

Rain or Shine in Columbus Park!

$10.00... fee to attend the ALIVE@FIVE Festival.
Children aged 12 and under are free, but must enter before 7 PM.

For more information:
Stamford Downtown Special Services District
Five Landmark Square, Suite 110
Stamford, CT 06901
Telephone: (203) 348-5285
Email: dssd@stamford-downtown.com
www.stamford-downtown.com

Harry Bennett Branch
115 Vine Road
Stamford, CT 06905
Telephone: (203) 351-8291

The Lumina String Quartet

August 5th, 2010

Performs 6:30 PM

Enjoy a classical concert at The Ferguson Library's Harry Bennett Branch. The Lumina String Quartet will perform works for strings and clarinet by Busoni, Schubert and Mozart.

Admission is free.

For more information on the Lumina String Quartet visit www.jamesarts.com/lumina/.

For information about the concert at The Ferguson Library call (203) 351-8231.

Mark your calender - Danbury Smiler . . .

2010-08-03T14:42:00.005-04:00

Danbury Museum & Historical Society
43 Main Street
Danbury, CT 06810

Wedding Cake
Decorating & Tasting Contest!

Saturday August 14, 2010
from 2pm - 5pm

ENTER YOUR CAKE

It's FREE!

Prizes include $250 for best tasting cake and $250 for best decorated cake!

Local bakers and bakeries are invited to compete in a Wedding Cake Tasting & Competition being sponsored by the Danbury Museum & Historical Society in conjuction with the Wedding Through the Ages exhibit of vintage wedding gowns from the museum's textile collection.

Two cash prizes of $250 will be awarded to the winner of two categories: taste and decoration.

There is no entry fee for those interested in competing.

There are no restrictions on the form or content of your cake. Competitors are asked to provide a cake larege enought to supply a small piece to 250 attendees. The museum will provide tables, cupcake holders for cake samples to be served, linens and utensils.

In addition to tasting all the wonderful cakes, attendees of this event will be treated to champagne, sparkling water and live music in the gorgeous Danbury Museum gardens.

Each entry will be photographed for an online exhibit on the museum's website!
Tickets are $10 per person, free for children under 12.
Tickets are available in advance at the Danbury Museum or at the door the day of the event.

For more information and/or to sign up to enter a cake,
Telephone: (203) 743-5200
E-mail: bguertin@danburyhistorical.org
Visit www.danburymuseum.org

Be sure to see the Vintage Wedding Dress exhibit on display at the Danbury Museum through October 14th!

Join them on Facebook

Smiler from Bridgeport . . .

2010-07-24T15:54:00.005-04:00

Connecticut Free Shakespeare

presents

Twelfth Night

July 16th - July 31st

Performance at 8PM

Beardsley Zoo

Bridgeport, Connecticut

Connecticut Free Shakespeare celebrates another extraordinary summer at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo by presenting William Shakespeare’s comedy Twelfth Night.

The Zoo’s Picnic Grove opens at 6:30PM for people to enjoy picnic dinners brought from home, or purchased from the Zoo’s concession stands. People are also welcome to bring blankets and lawn chairs. The Zoo itself will not be open for touring during the evening.

The performances begin at 8PM.

All shows are at the Peacock Pavilion and if it rains, the performance will move to the Carousel.

Performance dates are:
July16-18; 21-25; and 28-31, 2010

Admission to CFS is FREE.

For more information contact:

Beardsley Zoo
1875 Noble Avenue

Bridgeport, CT
Telephone: (203) 393-3213
Email:info@CTFreeShakespeare.org

www.CTFreeShakespeare.org

Smiler from Norwalk . . .

2010-07-24T15:23:00.004-04:00

AMF Rip Van Winkle Lanes

701 Connecticut Ave.

Norwalk, CT 06854

(203) 838-7501

Kids bowl free all summer long at AMF Rip Van Winkle Lanes in Norwalk, Connecticut. Go to www.kidsbowlfree.com/amf to sign up and enjoy a day of family fun.

Smiler from Westport . . .

2010-07-16T23:23:00.002-04:00

Saturday, July 17, 2010

9AM - 6PM

Sunday, July 18, 2010

10AM - 5PM

Parker Harding Plaza

Westport, CT 06880

The 37th annual Westport Fine Arts Festival, sponsored by the Westport Downtown Merchants Association, will feature 134 artists showcasing juried works in painting, watercolor, drawing, printmaking, mixed media, sculpture, and photography along the beautiful Saugatuck River in downtown Westport. Enjoy original art, unique entertainment, delicious food and fun children's activities by the Westport Arts Center. Join in the fun, bring family and friends . . . because everyone can use more art in there life!

For more information:
Telephone: (203) 505 - 8716
Email: wdmaadmin@gmail.com
Website: www.westportfineartsfestival.com

Beetle Bailey Smiler from USPS . . .

2010-07-15T15:34:00.005-04:00

The Sunday Funnies stamps announced earlier this year by the United States Postal Service will be issued July 16, 2010 - kicking off at 10:30AM with a dedication ceremony at The Ohio State University, home of the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum.

What:
First-Day-of-Issue dedication ceremony of the Sunday Funnies 44-cent Commemorative First-Class stamps. The event is free and open to the public.

When:
10:30AM, Friday, July 16, 2010

Where:
The Ohio State University
Performance Hall at the Ohio Union
1739 High Street
Columbus, OH 43210-1393

Who:

Ohio State University President, E. Gordon Gee
Curator and professor The Ohio State University Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Lucy Shelton Caswell
USPS President, Mailing and Shipping Services Robert F. Bernstock

Honored guests available for interviews:

Beetle Bailey creator, Mort Walker
Garfield creator, Jim Davis
Dennis the Menace artists, Marcus Hamilton and Ron Ferdinand
Archie Comics newspaper strip writer, Craig Boldman
Calvin and Hobbes Editor, Lee Salem

The event is free and open to the public.

Sunday funnies fans will be able to meet and get autographs from Beetle Bailey creator Mort Walker, Garfield creator Jim Davis, Archie Comics newspaper strip writer Craig Boldman, Dennis the Menace artists Marcus Hamilton and Ron Ferdinand and Calvin and Hobbes editor Lee Salem at Friday's ceremony at the Ohio State University, home to the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum.

The stamps likely will be available for three to four months at post offices, and online atwww.usps.gov for about a year, or until inventory runs out.

Smiler Invite from Stamford . . .

2010-07-14T15:42:00.007-04:00

Herman & Shelly
Film Fundraiser & Art Auction
July 15, 2010
6PM - 9PM

The Fernando Luis Alvarez Gallery invites you to join them for a contemporary art auction of several internationally-selling artists in support of an unforgettable story. The auction will begin at 6PM. Wine and cheese will be served.

Fernando Luis Alvarez Gallery is proud to support independent filmmaker, Bridget Stokes, on her feature film project, HERMAN & SHELLY. The film is about two quirky, creative and ambitious children who grow up to be quirky, creative and disillusioned adults. Join in the celebration of Stoke's newest production with an evening filled with fine art, elegance and ambiance.

For more information contact:
Fernando Luis Alvarez Gallery
96 Bedford Street
Stamford, CT 06901
Telephone: (888) 861-6791
Email: infor@fernandoluisalvarezgallery.com
www.fernandoluisalvarezgallery.com

Smiler from Audubon Greenwich . . .

2010-07-12T21:53:00.007-04:00

Special Annoucement from Jeff Cordulack
Events and Communications Manager:

‘DIRT! The Movie’

- with Reception, Exhibitors & Panel Discussion

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

6:00 pm: Local Wine & Cheese Reception with Guest Exhibitors

7:00 pm: Film Screening (83 min.) & Panel Discussion

You may have never heard of the film, but once you’ve seen it, you will never forget it. No film is like it and the story told will remind of you of our close association we have with something so simple, yet so complex - soil (a.k.a. DIRT). Come for an evening and leave with a new appreciation for soil. You’ll learn where it comes from, be reminded of where we are going to, and gain a better understanding of the miracles that soil gives to live on this planet. Narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis, DIRT! The Movie, this film introduces viewers to soil’s fascinating history and explores Earth’s most underappreciated and valuable source of fertility. This insightful film tells the story of soil — from its miraculous beginning to its tragic degradation. More than a film, it’s a call to action.

RSVPs required and space is very limited. To secure your seats now, buy tickets online for $12/person or RSVP and pay $15.00 at the door, space permitting. To buy online, visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/114370. To RSVP, call Jeff at (203) 869-5272 x239 to check door ticket availability.

Panelists for the discussion after Dirt! The Movie

* Moderator: Analiese Paik - founder and editor of the Fairfield Green Food Guide.
* Emily Brooks - founder of the Edibles Advocate Alliance/Shared Harvest CT and advocate for increasing awareness about the role of local & sustainable agriculture in human health.
* Jeff Cordulack - Environmental Council of Stamford (ECOS) President and Audubon's Greenwich's Events & Communications Manager.
* Annie Farrell - farm manager at Millstone Farm in Wilton, organic farm consultant, and a pioneer in the sustainable agriculture movement.
* Mike Nadeau - owner of Plantscapes Organics, LLC and one of the original developers of NOFA's Organic Land Care standards.

Exhibitors at the Dirt! The Movie reception

* Edibles Advocates Alliance/Shared Harvest CT - a consultant for grass-roots, agricultural, and socially innovative organizations. http://www.ediblesadvocatealliance.org/
* Fairfield Green Food Guide - a free website dedicated to helping consumers source local and sustainably grown food and connecting with the green food community. http://www.FairfieldGreenFoodGuide.com
* Fairfield Organic Teaching Farm – A proposed working farm and organic educational center on town-owned land in Fairfield, CT. http://www.fairfieldorganicteachingfarm.org.
* Fairfield Bread Company - a local artisan bread company. http://www.fairfieldbread.blogspot.com.
* Millstone Farm - an organic farm in Wilton owned by Betsy and Jesse Fink and run by Annie Farrell. http://millstonefarm.org
* Mike's Organic Delivery - a farm-to-door, organic & local food delivery company servicing Greenwich and other nearby towns. http://www.mikesorganicdelivery.com
* Mow Green US - a lawn care company using 'reel mowers' to provide quiet, clean and green mowing at no additional cost. http://www.mowgreen.us
* Peter's Garden - a supplier of the little known but soon to be famous 'licorice root' mulch for gardens.
* Plantscapes Organics Inc. - a NOFA accredited organic land care professional helping residents and businesses to green their properties. http://www.plantscapeorganics.com
* Red Bee Honey - a Wilton-based artisanal honey and honey-based skin care product producer practicing organic hive management. http://www.redbee.com
* Southfield Sustainable Community Platform - a year-round indoor/outdoor farmers' market and eateries featuring locally grown, organic and epicurean gourmet foods in Stamford.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards (http://www.sunsetmeadowvineyards.com/) in Goshen, CT, owned and operated by the Motel family, has generously donated their award-winning sustainable wines to the event and will be on hand to tell us more about them during the wine and cheese reception. Sunset Meadow Vineyards has been recognized as a 2010 Editors' Choice in Yankee Magazine's Travel Guide to New England. This designation is awarded by Yankee's editors and contributors, who name select restaurants, lodgings, and attractions in New England to the exclusive list.

Also, a special thank you to the Fairfield Bread Company for donating their artisan baguette, The Flaxette, to the reception and to CT Farm Fresh Express http://www.ctffe.com/FFExpress/Welcome.html for helping provide the local cheeses.

To learn more about this film and event at Audubon Greenwich, visit http://greenwich.audubon.org/Programs_SpecialEvents.html.

*****

Jeff Cordulack
Events and Communications Manager
Audubon Connecticut/Audubon Greenwich
613 Riversville Road
Greenwich, CT 06831
(203) 869-5272 x239
(203) 613-8813 (cell)
jcordulack@audubon.org
http://greenwich.audubon.org
http://audubonct.org

Smiler from LA Boxing Norwalk . . .

2010-07-08T15:42:00.004-04:00

LA Boxing
One Year Anniversary
Saturday, July 10th 2010
9AM - 3PM

LA Boxing will be hosting their One Year Anniversary event between 9AM and 3PM. The event will be jam packed full of fun, games, and vendors. Some of the plans for the day include:

FREE food by Black Bear Sono
RAFFLES and give-a-ways
INFLATABLE boxing ring
LIVE demos by professional fighters
LIVE radio broadcast by 95.9 Fox
LIVE DJ

They will be holding Free Classes that day to give you a feel for the LA Boxing experience. Burn 800-1000 calories in just one hour, and have a great time doing it! Free classes will be held at 10AM and Noon by appointment only.

Join in, plan to have fun and meet the LA Boxing family. Check out their Membership discounts and giveaways. Bring your friends and family to enjoy the one year celebration. LA Boxing trainers will be on site for questions and tours of the fantastic facility. Call LA Boxing to reserve a spot in one of the free classes, space is limited.

Plan to have a great day full of fun and games.

Come by and celebrate with LA Boxing, have fun, play games and/or just visit to hang out.

For more information:
LA Boxing Norwalk
30 Belden Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06850
Telephone: (203) 354-3540
www.laboxing.com/norwalk

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-07-06T23:43:00.005-04:00

Pops in the Park

Enjoy four performances outdoors this summer

Wednesday Evenings

July 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2010

at 6:30pm

Columbus Park

Stamford, Connecticut

Click Here to Download

Pops in the Park Summer Brochure

July 7th
NEIL SEDAKA

The history of Rock ‘n’ Roll would be incomplete without the
innumerable contributions of Neil Sedaka. For over fifty years, Neil
has written, performed, produced, and inspired countless songs, and
his canon of compositions will continue to stand the test of time.
Sedaka recorded chart toppers "Laughter in the Rain," "Love Will Keep
Us Together," "Oh! Carol," "Stairway to Heaven," "Calendar Girl," "Happy
Birthday Sweet Sixteen," "Next Door To An Angel," and "Breaking Up Is
Hard To Do."
www.neilsedaka.com

July 14th
STAMFORD SYMPHONY POPS
with Music Director, Eckart Preu

Stamford’s extraordinary orchestra performs "Classical Pops,"
Baroque favorites by Bach, Handel and Pachelbel, Viennese
masterpieces by Strauss and Mozart, and American standards
by Joplin, Copland, and Sousa.
www.StamfordSymphony.org

July 21st
STEVE MARCH TORME
A Tribute to the Life and Music of Mel Tormé

Totally Tormé is a son’s remarkable homage to his legendary father,
Mel Tormé. This performance features classic music beloved by Mel’s
fans, including "Lulu’s Back In Town," "Lover Come Back to Me," "The
Way You Look Tonight," and Mel’s own "Born to be Blue." Interspersed
with engaging stories, this lively and loving tribute is thoroughly
entertaining from the first measure to the last note. Bill Harris, Don
Harris, Wally Barrett, Tim Herman, and Joe Meo, members of the
Billy and the Showmen Band will be joining Mr. Torme, adding
some "local" flavor.
www.stevemarchtorme.com
www.billyandtheshowmen.com

July 28th
BOWZER’S ROCK ‘N‘ ROLL PARTY

Don’t miss Bowzer’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Party starring Kenny Vance & The
Planotones, Bowzer & The Stingrays, Rocky & The Rollers and special
guest Lynn DiMenna. Jon Bauman’s portrayal of Bowzer, leader of
Sha Na Na for fourteen years, was so convincing that the casual
observer was certain this hilarious, gangly greaser actually stalked the
streets of Brooklyn when he wasn’t appearing with the group. Bowzer
has resurfaced as one of the most multi-dimensional performers in
show business today, with his Rock ‘n Roll Party. Joining Bowzer will
be over fifty antique cars from the fifties and sixties exhibited around
the park courtesy of the Gateway Antique Auto Club of Stamford.
www.bowzerparty.com

NEW THIS YEAR
$5 fee to attend the Pops in the Park Festival.
Children aged 12 and under are free.
Single main entrance with multiple entry portals located
on Main Street just East of Clark and Lower Summer Streets

**July 7 – Rain or shine
Rain Venue for July 14, 21, 28 - Palace Theatre

For more information contact:
Stamford Downtown Special Services District
Five Landmark Square, Suite 110
Stamford, CT 06901
Phone: (203) 348-5285
Email: dssd@stamford-downtown.com

Smiler in Litchfield . . .

2010-07-06T22:50:00.007-04:00

Check out the 14th Annual

Litchfield Jazz Camp!

July 11 – August 6, 2010

and

be sure to mark your calendars for

the 15th Anniversary of the

Litchfield Jazz Festival

August 6 - 8, 2010

Delfeayo Marsalis will be a Litchfield Jazz Camp Guest Artist on Saturday, July 24th. He'll give a master class in the afternoon and a performance and conversation with the audience, "Jazz is Cool" at 7:30pm that evening.

The other 2011 Jazz Masters are flutist Hubert Laws, saxophonist David Liebman (a past Litchfield Jazz Camp Guest Artist), composer and arranger Johnny Mandel, and record producer and author Orrin Keepnews. All of the 2011 recipients will be publicly honored at the annual awards ceremony and concert on January 11, 2011 at Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, and receive a $25,000 fellowship award.

For more information about Delfeayo Marsalis visit: Delfeayo Marsalis, LJC Guest Artist Profile Page. The July 24th Master Class and entrance that evening's salon performance, "Jazz is Cool with NEA Jazz Master Delfeayo Marsalis," are included in jazz camp tuition. Tickets to the Salon for the general public are $10.

For additional information visit: http://litchfieldjazzfest.com

and/or call the Litchfield Performing Arts (860) 361 - 6285

Join in the fun VOLUNTEER!

The Litchfield Jazz Festival is a proud production of the non-profit Litchfield Performing Arts, Inc (LPA). LPA’s internationally renowned Litchfield Jazz Festival is celebrating its 15th Anniversary August 6—8. This years Festival will be dedicated to Dave Brubeck and his 90th Birthday! The Festival will be held in the Springs Center and on the campus of the Kent School.

The weekend of the festival, volunteers are needed from 4pm to 10pm on Friday and 10am to 10pm on Saturday and Sunday. Volunteers can opt for full or half-day shifts from 10am-4pm and 4pm-10pm. Volunteers are also needed the day before and the day after the festival and for strike on Sunday night.

For more information on volunteering for the various tasks during the festival visit: http://litchfieldjazzfest.com/lpa/GetInvolved/volunteer and/or

email: info@litchfieldjazzfest.com and/or

telephone: (860) 361-6285.

Volunteering is fun and a great way to make new friends!

Smiler from Barnum Museum . . .

2010-07-04T22:53:00.012-04:00

Get ready for Bridgeport’s

Biggest Birthday Party in 200 Years!

Don’t miss P.T. Barnum’s Birthday

celebration on July 5th, 2010

The Barnum Museum wants everyone to enjoy the 200th annual Barnum’s Birthday Bash for P.T. Barnum, famed showman, philanthropist and one of Bridgeport’s best-known citizens. This party is being held on Barnum’s birthday, Monday, July 5th from noon to 3PM at the Barnum Museum, 820 Main Street in Bridgeport CT.

There are many free admission opportunities for this year’s party:

Any child who also has their birthday on July 5th is invited to come for free with their “best friend,” and will receive a complimentary one year membership in Barnum’s Kids Club.

Every Barnum’s Kids Club member

Residents of Bridgeport will be free, simply bring your legal identification, proof of residency

Any person who brings in 3 or more gently used books for the Read to Grow program

The party will feature on-going craft activities by Ellen Ferrigno, live band music by Tony Ferrigno and balloon creations. An historic, hilarious stage show will take place at 1 p.m., Barnum’s World of Wonder, produced by Center Ring Productions featuring Joe Barney as P.T. Barnum. The show educates and entertains while telling the story of how Barnum changed the face of entertainment, not only in America, but internationally.

After the performance, the American Jenny Lind 2010 winner, Jennifer Caraluzzi from Bethel CT will lead everyone in singing Happy Birthday and a delicious birthday cake, donated by Luigi’s Italian Pastry Shop, will be served.

The fabulous and famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus Clowns will provide roving entertainment during the party and children will be able to participate in fun activities both inside and outside of the museum. Everyone will be able to register to win prizes including a family 4-pack of tickets to one of the October 2010 performances of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents Zing Zang Zoom at Arena at Harbor Yard.

Bridgeport dignitaries will be present for the official ceremony at 2 p.m. including Mayor Bill Finch, Acting Police Chief, Joseph Gaudett and Fire Chief, Brian Rooney. The Fire Department will also have a fire truck for kids to climb on during part of the event .

The Barnum Festival will have three winning parade floats on display in front of the museum, along with Spirit, the festival mascot and some of this year’s Royal Family, led by Ringmaster Tom Santa. “BB” the Bluefish mascot will also be available to pose for pictures.

New York Life Insurance Company will again offer a popular, safe and secure child identification program. Parents will fill out a form for their children and will walk away with a one sheet print out and a number of wallet sized versions to use as needed with friends, family, babysitters and more. Protecting families is at the core of New York Life’s mission, so they are delighted to provide the service at no charge.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo will bring some cute and interesting creatures while the Discovery Museum will be hosting one of their always popular activity stations.

Celebrating the 200th birthday of Phineas Taylor Barnum, born July 5, 1810 in Bethel CT, during 2010 The Barnum Museum will chronicle the life and times of this extraordinary showman and the history of Bridgeport where Barnum served as Mayor. For a complete listing of anniversary year events celebrating this amazing – and sometimes outrageous – showman, civic leader and politician, visit www.barnum-museum.org. The original museum building, owned by the City of Bridgeport is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

What: Barnum’s Birthday Bash: A Celebration 200 Years in the Making

Where: The Barnum Museum, 820 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604

When: Monday, July 5, noon to 3 p.m.

Who: Families and Children of All Ages

Cost: Free for all Barnum’s Kids Club members and residents of the City of Bridgeport who bring proper identification. Also free for any child with a July 5th birthday. A discounted admission of $5 per adult and $3 per child will be in effect for this special event. As always, children under the age of 4 will be admitted free.

For more information call Jaime Knoedler, at (203) 331-1104, ext. 102 and/or visit www.barnum-museum.org

Happy Fourth of July!!!

2010-07-04T22:50:00.002-04:00

Smiler in Stamford . . .

2010-06-29T22:34:00.006-04:00

Sculpture Exhibit

Art in Public Places

IT'S REIGNING CATS & DOGS

A Sculpture Exhibit in Stamford Downtown

Stamford, Connecticut

Each year Stamford Downtown hosts a distinguished outdoor sculpture exhibit designed to attract local and regional audiences. This year 40 oversized, originally designed and painted fiberglass cats and dogs will be on display on the streets and parks of Stamford Downtown from June through August. All pets will be up for adoption at auction. A portion of proceeds will benefit Friends of Felines, OPIN and Stamford Dog Park.

Exhibit Booklet and Map

Exhibit Map

For more information contact:
Stamford Downtown Special Services District
Five Landmark Square, Suite 110
Stamford, CT 06901
Telephone: (203) 348-5285
email:dssd@stamford-downtown.com
website:www.stamford-downtown.com

Mark your calendars . . .

2010-06-22T14:17:00.005-04:00

Filmmakers Visit Audubon

To Highlight CO2 Effects

On Ocean Food Web

Sunday, June 27th, 2010

Screening of: A Sea Change

3PM - 5PM

Imagine a world without fish. It's a frightening premise, and it's happening right now. Global warming of the atmosphere is only half the story of the environmental catastrophe that awaits us. Excess carbon dioxide is dissolving in our oceans, changing sea water chemistry. The more acidic water makes it difficult for tiny creatures at the bottom of the food web to form their shells. The effects could work their way up to the fish 1 billion people depend upon for their source of protein.

To increase awareness about this very real phenomenon called 'ocean acidification', Audubon Greenwich will host the Director, Barbara Ettinger, and Co-producer, Sven Huseby, on June 27th at 3PM when they screen their highly-acclaimed film, A Sea Change. Chock full of scientific information, this is the first documentary about ocean acidification. This feature-length film is also a beautiful paen to the ocean world and an intimate story of a Norwegian-American family whose heritage is bound up with the sea and a touching portrait of Sven's relationship with his grandchild Elias. As Sven keeps a correspondence with the little boy, he mulls over the world that he is leaving for future generations.

A disturbing and essential companion piece to An Inconvenient Truth, this scientifically-based film brings home the indisputable fact that our lifestyle is changing the earth, despite our rhetoric or wishful thinking. The filmmakers hope its message about ocean acidification will reach millions of people and leading policy-makers across the globe ahead and influence future UN Climate Change conferences designed to stop the massive amounts of carbon being released by coal, oil and natural gas fuels.

A Sea Change has played to sell-out crowds at major film festivals in Washington, DC, San Francisco, Seattle in 2009 and its many awards include: Best World Documentary, Sedona International Film Festival; Best Green Film, Kosovo International Documentary Film Festival; Grand Prize, Feature Documentary, FICA International Environmental Film Festival; Dumosa Award for Best Coastal Film, Cottonwood Environmental Film Festival; Best Nordic Country Film, Polar Film Festival; Aloha Accolade Award, Honolulu International Film Festival.

A discussion with the filmmakers will follow the screening at:
Audubon Greenwich
613 Riversville Road
Greenwich, CT 06831

Space is very limited and RSVPs are required.
$5 donation per person will be collected at the door
To RSVP, contact Jeff Cordulack at (203) 869-5272 ext. 239

For more information contact:
Jeff Cordulack
Events and Communications Manager
Audubon Connecticut/Audubon Greenwich
613 Riversville Road
Greenwich, CT 06831
(203) 869-5272 ext. 239
(203) 613-8813 (cell)
jcordulack@audubon.org
http://greenwich.audubon.org

http://audubonct.org

Happy Father's Day . . .

2010-06-20T10:45:00.000-04:00

Smiler from Lakeside Pottery . . .

2010-06-20T10:14:00.010-04:00

A "Smiler" from Lakeside Pottery: FREE Pottery Tips

Lakeside Pottery is planning to offer sculpting classes/workshops and has begun it's affiliation with Juan Andreu, a unique talent and an art professor at Quinnipiac University. For more details visit: www.juanlandreu.com

One Day Potter's Wheel Workshop

June 20th, 2010

11AM - 1:30PM

Lakeside Pottery, Ceramic School and Studio in Stamford, Connecticut is now offering a one-time 2 1/2 hour lesson on the potter’s wheel. This workshop will introduce the basic skills of working with clay on the potter's wheel and will provide you with the taste and understanding of what it takes to use the potter's wheel.

No previous experience required.

Workshop will include a demonstration and hands-on clay experience. Tools will be provided.
Who: 15 year and older.
Limit: 10 students per session.
Cost: $65 including material and firing fees for one pot.
Each additional pot kept and fired will have a $10 fee.

For More Information:

Lakeside Pottery Ceramic School and Studio
543 Newfield Avenue
Stamford, CT 06905
Telephone: (203) 323-2222
Email: studio@lakesidepottery.com
Website: www.lakesidepottery.com

Smiler from Quassy . . .

2010-06-11T14:14:00.005-04:00

One Tank Travel Expo

A sampling of the many great things to do close to home in Connecticut will be right at your doorstep on Sunday, June 13th, at the “One Tank Travel Expo” at Quassy Amusement Park. The 11AM to 4PM travel show will take place along the walkways at the lakeside park with no general admission charged. Parking is $5 at Quassy with fees for the rides, beach, waterpark, food, attractions and games. The dozens of booths will feature everything from museums, boat and train excursions, parks, campgrounds, hotels and resorts and other attractions. A number of vendors will have drawings for prizes as well as other giveaways.

Sponsors of the “One Tank Travel Expo” – “one tank” meaning family getaways close enough to home to use no more than a tank of gasoline – are: AAA Allied Group, Inc., radio station WATR of Waterbury, WTNH News Channel 8 of New Haven and Quassy. Guests can also enjoy free magic shows at the Lakeside Theatre during the afternoon. The concept of hosting a free regional travel expo was initiated by Quassy’s marketing staff several years ago and came to fruition last year.

The free expo runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is $5.

For additional information contact:
Quassy Amusement Park
Lake Quassapaug, Rt. 64 (2132 Middlebury Road)
Middlebury, CT 06762
P.O. Box 887
Telephone: 1-800-FOR-PARK or 203-758-2913
E-mail: info@quassy.com
Website: www.quassy.com

Smiler for Connecticut . . .

2010-06-11T13:34:00.006-04:00

Connecticut Open House Day

June 12, 2010

6th Annual Connecticut Open House Day , Statewide

Connecticut residents are invited to join the state’s 375th anniversary celebration and enjoy an exciting in-state getaway on Saturday, June 12th. Over 200 Connecticut attractions, tourism destinations, arts and cultural organizations, will roll out the welcome mat to visitors with a variety of special incentives such as discounted/free admission, free gifts and/or special exhibits and activities. Participants include museums, galleries, historic properties, theaters, farms, vineyards, amusement parks, nature centers, shops and lodging accommodations to name a few.

The annual event is sponsored by The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. in support of the state’s 375th anniversary and coordinated by the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism.

Connecticut Open House Day specials and hours of operation vary by property. For more information, hours and contacts, visit: Connecticut Open House - Participating locations are listed in alphabetical order by town, then by the name of the property.

Smiler in Danbury . . .

2010-06-11T13:33:00.004-04:00

Eighth Annual Southern Connecticut

Renaissance Festival

Ives Concert Park

10AM to 6PM

Saturday and Sunday

May 29th – 30th

June 5th – 6th and June 12th – 13th

For three consecutive weekends this spring on the Western Connecticut State University Westside campus, 43 Lake Ave. Extension in Danbury. Ives Concert Park will be transformed into an authentic 1585 village where jousters, jesters, minstrels and storytellers will excite and entertain attendees of all ages.

Tickets are available for one day (adults $15, children and seniors $8), for the weekend (adults $28, children and seniors $14), or for the entire season (adults $84, children and seniors $42). Family four-packs (two adults and two children) also are available at $42 for one day. Children under 4 will be admitted free. Tickets will be for sale at the venue.

Six stages will feature entertainment ranging from magicians to storytellers to knights in battle. Highlights will include a full-armored joust staged by Noble Cause Productions, an internationally recognized joust reenactment troupe. There will be music, comedy, jugglers and much more. Also featured will be a variety of merchants offering Renaissance-related items such as clothing, art, jewelry, florals, figurines and more.

The Renaissance village will offer a variety of international cuisine for purchase, including bread bowls with soup, stew and chili; turkey legs; Thai food; Italian cuisine; new world favorites and more. Mead, ale and other beverages also will be available.

For more information, visit www.thescrf.com or call (203) 888-6204.

Memorial Day . . .

2010-05-31T21:41:00.003-04:00

Celebrate 60 Years . . .

2010-05-29T12:19:00.004-04:00

Attention Fans!

Help pick the best

Beetle Bailey strips

of the past 60 years!

Help Celebrate!
Enter the Contest!

Smiler from KBDR . . .

2010-05-27T11:50:00.015-04:00

AN EVENT TO BENEFIT

THE DISCOVERY MUSEUM

at the Sikorsky Memorial Airport

Stratford, Connecticut

Memorial Day Weekend

Vintage Aircraft and Collector Cars

May 29th - 30th, 2010

"Memorial Day Classics" Collector Car Show

May 31st, 2010

Food, Fun and Family Activities All Three Days!

Celebrate

the 70th Anniversary

of Connecticut’s State Aircraft

the F4U Corsair in style!

More than 30 Vintage and Military Aircraft including five F4U Corsairs - Vintage and collector cars and special interest vehicles organized by Black Horse Garage - Vintage trucks and Military Vehicles - Hands-On Activities and Science Demos - Appearances by NASA Astronaut Joe Edwards - Free Young Eagles Flights for Youth -Food and Merchandise Midway - Classic Car Show - Hangar Dance and Much, Much More!

Wings Highlights May 29th - 30th, 2010

- More than 30 Vintage and Military Aircraft !!!
Five F4U Corsairs; the C-54 “Spirit of Freedom”; Sikorsky’s UH-60 Blackhawk & H-34, T-28 Trojan; Mitchell B-25 “Panchito”; C-23 Sherpa; L-39 Albatross Jet Fighter Trainer; T-6 Texans, C-45; L-3; J-3; L-19, Stearman, Spartan Executive, DeHavilland Beaver and much, much more!

- Free Youth Activities !!!
Build your own paper “rocket” plane and launch it on our test range!
See a demo on the amazing science of space travel and what it’s really like in space!
Get a close-up look at real moon rocks and NASA Space Suit!
Free flights for children ages 8 to 17 through EAA Young Eagles!

- Aviation & Automobile Themed Merchandise Midway !!!
- A Wide Selection of Tasty Food and Beverages !!!
- Free Fingerprinting and Photographing of Children by N.Y. Life !!!
- Take a Chance to Win a 45-Minute Ride in a WWII T-6 Texan !!!

- Meet Navy F-14 Test Pilot and NASA Astronaut Joe Edwards! !!!

- World War II Hangar Dance Saturday Night
7PM to Midnight
Dress for the era - Music by the Stardusters
Vintage aircraft and rare vintage autos set the mood!

Wheels Highlights May 29th - 31st, 2010

May 29th - 30th, 2010
- Spectacular, Award-Winning Show Cars from a Wide Range of Eras!!!
Mercedes-Benz, Packard, Cadillac, Ferrari, Maserati, Aston-Martin, Jaguar, Porsche, Austin Healey, Hudson, Lola, Shelby Cobra, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Lots More.

May 31st, 2010
- 200 Pre-Registered (By Invitation Only) Vintage and Classic Cars !!!
Ferrari, Maserati, Aston-Martin, Jaguar, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Packard, Cadillac, Austin Healey, Hudson, and many more.

Admission: $6 for ages 6 – 12 and $12 for ages 13 and over.
FREE for military with I.D.
½ price for groups of twenty or more and Discovery Museum members.

To find out more visit:
www.wingsandwheelsct.org
and/or contact:
Telephone: (203) 372-3521 ext. 124
Email: wingsandwheels@discoverymuseum.org

Smiler in Fairfield . . .

2010-05-21T12:33:00.004-04:00

Duckie Derby Day

A Race for Rubber Duckies

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010

Mill River in Fairfield, CT

Derby opens at 1PM

This is a family fun event and is free to attend.

They plan to float 1000 plus rubber duckies down Mill River.

For $10 you can sponsor a duck in the derby race and for $15 you can purchase a BIG duck for the Decorated Duck Contest.

For walk in purchases of race duck tickets and decorator ducks, please visit the sponsor The Bank of Fairfield located at 2248 Black Rock Turnpike or at 2150 Post Road in Fairfield.

Proceeds benefit St. Catherine's Academy a school for children with special needs located in Fairfield, Connecticut.

If you would like to get involved as a volunteer,

please call Kelly Weldon at (203)834-5029

and/or Liz Tamarkin at (203)445-8236.

For more info visit www.duckiederbyday2010.blogspot.com

Smiler in Greenwich . . .

2010-05-21T11:55:00.004-04:00

Greenwich Historical Society

Green Market

~May through October~

Organic and local produce, herbs,

fresh cut flowers, local honey and jams

Tuesdays 9:00 am ~ 3:00 pm

Fridays Noon ~ 6:00 pm

Bush-Holley Historic Site

Green Market shoppers may now buy garden-fresh produce, enjoy the historic site, and be inspired by the period gardens all in one stop.

A series of monthly farm-to-table dinners are planned for Friday, July 16th, August 20th and September 10th at the Greenwich Historical Society Barn. Details and special guest speakers will be announced at a later date.

For more information on the Green Market and Barn Dinners,

please visit www.greenwichhistory.org

and/or call (203) 869-6899, ext. 18.

Historical Society of the Town of Greenwich
39 Strickland Road
Cos Cob, CT 06807
Telephone: (203) 869-6899
http://www.hstg.org

Smiler from Fairfield . . .

2010-05-13T15:33:00.003-04:00

KIDZFLIX
CHILDREN'S
INTERNATIONAL
FILM FESTIVAL

May 14th - 16th, 2010
Fairfield, Connecticut

The KidzFlix Children’s International Film Festival is an annual, competitive, international film festival. KidzFlix is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting quality independent children’s cinema. KidzFlix will showcase the latest in family-friendly work from filmmakers in the community and around the world. The festival will take place on Friday, May 14th through Sunday, May 16th, 2010 at the Community Theater in Fairfield, CT.

Admission is $7.00 for kids 6-18 and $9.00 for adults. Tickets will be available online and on the day of the screening. For more information about the KidzFlix Children’s International Film Festival and a screening schedule, www.kidzflix.org

For More Information:

Community Theatre Foundation
1424 Post Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
Telephone: (203) 255-6255
Website: www.communitytheatrefoundation.org

Smiler from Audubon Greenwich . . .

2010-05-10T10:12:00.004-04:00

The Science of Water with Dr. Sweeney

Wednesday, May 12th, 2010

6:30PM - 8PM

At Audubon Greenwich

A special presentation about one of our most precious natural resources—fresh water. Dr. Bernard Sweeney from the Stroud Water Research Center will discuss the science of freshwater research, including how our streams and rivers function as a whole and the complex web of life that inhabits them. Only through knowing how healthy streams and rivers work, and what happens when they become polluted, can we determine how to protect and preserve this vital resource. Participants will leave with a fresh perspective on how to protect, preserve, and restore watersheds everywhere, including our local area.

$5 suggested donation accepted at the door.

RSVPs not required but are appreciated.

Contact Jeff at (203) 869-5272 x239

and/or jcordulack@audubon.org

Dr. Bernard Sweeney is the Director, President, Senior Research Scientist, Stroud Water Research Center Head, Freshwater Surveillance Group, The International Barcode of Life Project , Adjunct Professor of Biology, Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania. His current research interests are: The role of water quality monitoring in conservation, population and community ecology of temperate and tropical aquatic invertebrates, pollution assessment in temperate and tropical streams using macroinvertebrates, the role of streamside forests in the structure and function of stream and river ecosystems, factors affecting the growth and survivorship of trees in riparian forests, the effects of global warming on stream ecosystems, genetic variation and gene flow among populations of stream insects, the effects of diet and seasonal temperature change on aquatic insect populations, evolution of facultative parthenogenesis in aquatic insects, bioenergetics and secondary production of aquatic insects, and the bioassay of toxic materials in aquatic systems.

For more information about Dr. Sweeney and the Stroud Water Research Center, please visit: http://www.stroudcenter.org/about/bernardsweeney.htm

*****
For more information contact:
Jeff Cordulack
Events and Communications Manager
Audubon Connecticut/Audubon Greenwich
613 Riversville Road
Greenwich, CT 06831
(203) 869-5272 ext. 239
(203) 613-8813 (cell)
jcordulack@audubon.org
http://greenwich.audubon.org

http://audubonct.org

Volunteer at Audubon Greenwich!

Are you looking to volunteer your time? Do you need community service hours for school? Audubon Greenwich is always in need of dedicated volunteers. Please contact Brian O’Toole at (203) 869.5272 ext. 221 to learn about upcoming volunteer events and opportunities.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-08T20:03:00.004-04:00

Press Release from LAA . . .

2010-05-08T20:02:00.011-04:00

For Immediate Release

Press: Mark Macrides

203-861-1829

Mark.Macrides@countryschool.net

The Loft Artists Association presents

"Big-Bigger-Biggest"

May 7th – June 20th, 2010

at the Loft Artists Gallery

845 Canal Street, Stamford, CT

www.loftartists.com •203-323-4153

Opening Reception:

Friday, May 7th, 2010

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

STAMFORD, CT. — The Loft Artists Gallery presents Big-Bigger-Biggest, an art show featuring select large paintings from LAA artists. All art on exhibit will be 36” X 48” or larger, offering a rare opportunity for viewers to see how LAA artists are experimenting with size and scale.

“The idea of a show where the only parameter is size is intriguing as is the chance to view a selection of very large paintings in one space,” says Mark Macrides. “It will be much different than what viewers typically expect to see in our gallery.”

Big-Bigger-Biggest will run from May 7th to June 20th, with an opening reception that is free and open to the public on Friday, May 7th from 6PM. to 9PM. The Loft Artists Gallery is located at 845 Canal Street in Stamford, CT. Gallery hours are Friday through Sunday, 12-5PM. Admission is free.

The Loft Artists Association, a non-profit organization, is located in Stamford’s South End. For over 30 years, the Loft Artists have been dedicated to sharing the power of art with the community in which they work.

Visit www.loftartists.com for more information and be sure to find them on Facebook.

Smiler in Danbury . . .

2010-05-08T20:02:00.010-04:00

May 4th - May 9th, 2010

Danbury, Connecticut

Main Events Include-

Wednesday, May 5th:
- Film & Party Party The World Premier Of: "10 Mountains 10 Years" United Way Of Western Connecticut Benefit Party, Doors Open 6:30pm, Film and Announcements, Film 7:30pm Music: Milton

Thursday, May 6th:
- Film & Party Featuring "The Baker" - CTFF Audience Favorite Award Winner Bethel Library Benefit After Party Doors Open 6:30pm, Film and Announcements, 7:30pm Live Music with Jeff Preston

Friday, May 7th:
- World Premier & Party "Santorini Blue" featuring Richard Belzer, Dann Florek, Ice-T, Red Carpet 8:30pm, Premier Party 7:00pm At Tuscano Restaurant In Danbury

Saturday, May 8th:
- Union Savings Bank Presents: Closing Night Film CTFF Awards & Industry Bash The Barry Levinson Documentary Feature: "Poliwood" Red Carpet 6:30pm, Film and Announcements, 7:30pm, Annual Industry Bash Immediately After The Film - Live Music: The Presbyterians

115 Films in 13 Categories, 80 Educational Workshops, Panels and Keynotes on Film, Digital & New Media, Screenwriting, Music and Content Creation, Business, Marketing, Distribution and Entertainment Law , 80 Performances by Independent Emerging Musical Artists. 5 Screens, 10 Classrooms, 4 Music venues, 6 Big Party Nights Industry Networking Events, The 24 Hour Cup O' Joe Filmmaking Competition, Writers Unblocked - 4 Day Screenwriters Program Connecticut Student Film Festival - various venues, lots of info, lots of fun!

For the complete schedule, to purchase tickets and/or volunteer - visit www.ctfilmfest.com

Join them on Facebook!
Follow them on Twitter!

Smiler from Branchville Motors . . .

2010-04-30T10:20:00.003-04:00

On Sunday, May 2nd, from 10AM to 2PM, join Branchville Motors for a day of fun, bikes, and camaraderie. This year the Spring Open House will be held in conjunction with Triumph's Thunderbird Nights Event. There will be live music, and as always the grill will be up and running.

And be sure to see the motorcycle paintings by artist Ben Armstrong, one of the many talented folks at Branchville Motors.

Free food and beverages. Meet some great people, see some amazing motorcycles and take part in the fun and enthusiasm. Enjoy the day!

For more information contact:
Branchville Motors
63 Ethan Allen Hwy., Route 7
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Telephone:(203) 544-7900
www.branchville.com

Join them on Facebook, follow their Blog and be sure to visit their ebay store!

Mark your calendars . . .

2010-04-28T20:37:00.007-04:00

Free Comic Book Day!

May 1st, 2010

What Is Free Comic Book Day?

Free Comic Book Day is a single day - the first Saturday in May each year - when participating comic book shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely FREE* to anyone who comes into their stores. *Check with your local shop for their participation and rules. Here are a few stores nearby and around the Fairfield County, Connecticut area.

A Timeless Journey
2538 Summer Street
Stamford, CT 06905
(203) 353-1720

Comix Plus
125-131 Main Street
Mt. Kisco, NY 10549
(914) 666-4312

The Phoenix of Westchester
4 Grayrock Road
Scarsdale, NY 10583
(914) 472-2702

Capricorn Comics Plus
3002 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
(203) 334-5566

Squiggy's Dugout
237 A East Main Street
New Rochelle, NY 10801
(914) 636-7585

NOTE: This list contains comic shops participating in Free Comic Book Day and is not necessarily a comprehensive list of all shops in your area. For a more complete listing of your local shops visit comicshoplocator.com

For more information visit:
www.freecomicbookday.com

Find them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter, check out the fun on flickr!!!

Comic strip trivia . . .

2010-04-28T19:57:00.004-04:00

Today is the birthday of Leon Harrison Gross (April 28, 1911 - March 13, 1999), writer, director and producer. He is best known as Lee Falk, the creator of the popular comic strip superheroes The Phantom and Mandrake the Magician.

The series began with a daily newspaper strip on February 17, 1936, followed by a color Sunday strip on May 28, 1939; both are still running as of 2010. At the peak of its popularity, the strip was read by over a hundred million people every day. [1]

You might remember seeing The Phantom on our June 2006 magazine cover.

June 2006 Cover

The Best of Times Online

Smiler in Southport . . .

January 8th through February 3rd

Heidi Palmer Mind Scapes

Smiler from Alba's . . .

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