First Night Celebrations in Connecticut 2009-2010!

Ring in the new year with First Night celebrations around Connecticut.

First Night Danbury & 5K
There will be music, dancing, and children’s entertainment with fireworks on the Green at 8:00 PM.
Downtown, Danbury, CT 06810
December 31, 2009 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Admission: $5.
Phone: (203) 792-1711
http://www.citycenterdanbury.com/



First Night Westport Weston/Westport
First Night WW is an alcohol-free Celebration of New Year's Eve through the Arts. Not only can you enjoy 9 hours of unequaled entertainment, you can enjoy the safe surroundings of beautiful downtown Westport while you walk in the town's holiday atmosphere. Or you can also choose to ride the free shuttle buses between the venues.
Admission: $10
Button Sales Locations: Available online.
http://www.firstnightww.com/


First Night Hartford 2009
It is Hartford's premier New Year's Eve party, a multicultural, artistically unique, alcohol-free New Year's experience with countless professional musicians, artists, performance groups and exhibits that inspire thousands of people of all ages to attend each year. It’s also an affordable way for everyone to ring in the New Year. This is the 21st year for First Night Hartford, so be sure to come and join the fun and keep the tradition going!
$10 adults, $2 youth (15 years and under)
Button Sales Locations: Online
http://www.firstnighthartford.org/












HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR 2009!!

Connecticut Traffic Interactive Map

As thousands of Connecticut residents take to the roadways for the Thanksgiving holiday, Governor M. Jodi Rell announced that a new interactive travel information map is now available at www.ct.gov/dot/cttravel.

"This is the busiest travel period of the year," Governor Rell said. "I want everyone to arrive at their destinations safely and on time. Timely information about current road conditions will help reduce headaches and reduce congestion. I am urging commuters and travelers to put this site on their 'favorites' lists."

The map shows construction points, details any traffic incidents on the roadways, and lists all the traffic cameras so you can see what you're getting into before you hit the road.

www.ct.gov/dot/cttravel

Man Vs. Food visits Newington

Travel Channel's Adam Richman from Man v Food will be filming at Doogie's Restaurant, Newington http://www.doogieshotdogs.com/ on Friday from 4:30pm - 7:30pm.


Update (11/4/2009) Doogies is having a premiere party for the episode of Man v Food filmed at the restaurant on December 16th at 10:00pm. The airdate of the episode on the Travel Channel.

Go show your support!

Connectcut Fall Foliage Tours

Plan your fall trips here!

Track the progress of the foliage with the Connecticut DEP Fall Foliage Map. Another great way to get a preview of the foliage is to check out nearby webcams and traffic cameras.

Plan a weekend fall driving tour. Here are six driving loop suggestions to take in the best of Connecticut's colorful autumn scenery.

Connecticut Route 15:
City Meets Country along the Merrit Parkway in Fairfield County.

Connecticut Route 1:
Seaside Escapes enjoy the picturesque shoreline towns with lively main streets and historic landmarks

Connecticut Route 9:
River Rambles in the river valley "one of the last great places" according to the Nature Conservancy.

Connecticut Route 7:
Alive with Color Named by National Geographic Traveler as one of the most scenic driving destinations in the country, the Litchfield Hills are a top choice for leaf peeping.

Connecticut Route 169:
Step Back In Time on a National Scenic Byway of America. Route 169 winds through history, passing Colonial homesteads, stone walls, charming inns and B&Bs and untouched farm land in classic New England towns.

Tips for all leaf peepers

Fall Foliage Driving Loops

Scenic Views and Hiking Locations

Leef Peeping at the Connecticut Shoreline

From Go New England Fall Leaf Coloring Pages for kids.

An alternative to driving to see the foliage, take a boat trip down the Connecticut River on the Lady Katherine. They are offering foliage trips - which take about 2 and a half hours - on the river. Dates available: Oct 11, 13, 15, 18, 22, 25 & Nov 1. www.ladykatecruises.com

Connecticut Tax Free Shopping Week 2009

Connecticut Sales Tax Holiday on Clothing Items August 15th - August 22th, 2009 Connecticut shoppers will have one week to buy items of clothing and footwear costing under $300 without paying Connecticut sales tax (hooray!).

This year, the tax free week will run from Saturday, August 15 through Saturday, August 22nd.

More information about the rules that apply to the sales tax free week can be found here:

http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1514&q=318566

State's Flu Info Website

There are no confirmed cases of a Swine Flu outbreak in Connecticut yet, but if you're worried about it you can follow the latest updated information at the State of CT's Flu Info website:

www.ct.gov/ctfluwatch

Get Your Green On, St Patrick's Day Parades in Connecticut

2009 Greenwich Saint Patrick's Parade
Sunday, March 8, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Greenwich Hibernian Association is sponsoring their 33rd annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. The parade will form at the Greenwich, Connecticut Town Hall at 101 Field Point Road, Greenwich, CT and march down Greenwich Avenue.

2009 Greater New Haven Saint Patrick's Day Parade
Sunday, March 15th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
The Greater New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 15 starts its march at 1:00 pm. It will step off from Derby Avenue and Chapel Street, marching down Chapel Street to Church Street. It passes the reviewing stand in front of New Haven's City Hall and continues on Church Street to Grove Street, turning right and ending on Orange Street.
http://www.stpatricksdayparade.org/


2009 Greater Hartford Saint Patrick's Day Parade
Saturday, March 14, 2009 - Starting at 11:00 am
The parade begins at Capitol Avenue by the State Capital, takes a left on Main Street, a left on Asylum, a left on Ford Street, and then ends by the Memorial Arch. The parade is held rain or shine.
http://www.irishamericanparade.com


Stamford St. Patrick's Day Parade 2009
Saturday, March 14th at noon
With more than 80 marching units, including Greenwich Pipe Band, Connecticut Firefighters' Pipes and Drum, Governor's Horse Guard, Trinity College Pipes and Drums, school and youth groups, Irish dancers, military groups, and more. It runs up Bedford and down Summer streets. For more information, call 249-3270.
http://www.ctaoh.com


2009 Mystic Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
Sunday, March 22nd, 2009 at 1pm
Mystic Connecticut will host a Saint Patrick Parade on March22nd starting at 1PM. Over 650 marchers scheduled to participate and for us it is a first for our corner of Connecticut. Everyone is cordially invited to attended. Please note arrive early as parking is anticipated to be a problem. The parade accessible off Interstate 95 at either exit 89 or 90. Just follow the signs for directions.



For more St. Patrick's Day Parades around the U.S.A. please visit:
http://www.saintpatricksdayparade.com/

Looking for an Apartment in Connecticut?

I just came across this great resource. If you're looking for an apartment anywhere in Connecticut visit myapartmentmap.com to compare real-time prices. This site shows the most expensive prices ($3,026 in Greenwich) to the least expensive prices ($816 for a 2 bedroom in Waterbury). Click on a town name to search by map. It also gives you the WalkScore for the neighborhood, plus school information.

Visit myapartmentmap.com for more information.

Chimp Mauls Connecticut Woman

HARTFORD, Conn. – A 200-pound domesticated chimpanzee who once starred in TV commercials for Old Navy and Coca-Cola was shot dead by police after a violent rampage that left a friend of its owner badly mauled.

Click here for the full story.

I couldn't believe that actually happened when I saw the news last night. What was that woman thinking keeping a chimp as a pet?

They're wild animals who deserve and NEED to be in their own natural environment, not cooped up as someone's pet. Sure they're cute when they are babies, but as adults they are unpredictable and have unbelievable strength. It was wearing a diaper? Couldn't she teach it to flush? She gave him Xanex with a cup of tea?

Hopefully her friend is able to recover from this. The 911 call was terrible.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell Unveils Budget Plans

"We are Connecticut" stated Gov. M. Jodi Rell as she laid out her Budget plans today. She spoke of "pain and sacrifice," and "long overdue trimming." I don't normally post political items, but I was able to listen to the broadcast this afternoon. So here goes. She talked of families getting by on a lot less, feeling the pinch as it were, and how they were going to have to do the same.

Some of the highlights include:

• No cuts to education aid. No cuts to any state grant program.
• The elimination of 10 state agencies. Therefore eliminating duplications along the way.
  
• The elimination of 70 boards and commissions that have associated staffing, mileage reimbursement and other expenses. "We're reducing the bloat of bureaucracy and making do with less," said Rell.
• The budget cuts the fleet of state cars by 20 percent. If an employee doesn't really need one, he or she won't have one. Families are making do with less - so can we.
• Fewer laws. There are 14,000 pages of state laws in existence. The Governor proposes taking 130 unnecessary laws off the books. "We not only need a leaner government but a less intrusive one as well."
• Canceling state bond authorizations of hundreds of mostly earmark projects, totaling almost $400 million.
• A one year a hold on construction at UConn and state colleges to save debt costs.
• Municipalities can and should cut costs by sharing - sharing equipment, facilities, schools, personnel and more.
• And a new $10 million grant will be available to purchase shared equipment - snow plows, dump trucks, garbage trucks.
• Expansion of food assistance and elderly nutrition programs.
• Doing more to "green up" the state by expanding the bottle bill law to include non-carbonated beverages like water.
  

Those are just a few of the items covered by Governor Rell in the speech. Read the full text of the speech here:
http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/ci_11626064

Follow this story on:
http://www.ctnewsjunkie.com/

For more Budget detail visit:
http://www.ct.gov/opm/cwp/view.asp?a=2958&Q=432642&PM=1

Mystic Aquarium Debuts Baby Penguins with a new Webcam

Bored at work? Need a dose of cuteness to get you through yet another dull T.P.S. Report? Head on over to the Mystic Aquarium website and check out some baby penguin chicks on their new webcam. Is there anything cuter than a baby penguin? I have yet to hear different.

During the first 40 days, the little ones are unable to maintain their body heat, so they seek warmth under their parents. Viewers will see their heads and beaks emerge when they are hungry and when their parents feed them. Later in this period, the inquisitive chicks will slowly venture on their own into other areas of their room. Once they are weaned (around day #50), people can observe the aquarium’s trainers teaching the chicks to feed from them.

At 75 to 100 days of age, the chicks will be fully fledged. Their soft down will be replaced with juvenile plumage, and they will be ready to fend for themselves. The fledglings will either join the 26 adult African penguins on exhibit at the aquarium or go to other facilities that house the species.

The camera will be on daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with occasional breaks when the chicks are taken out of the room.

Click here to visit the Penguin Webcam

Also while you're there visit the Beluga Whales webcam too!

Turkey and a Twenty 2008

Foodshare Sets November 2008 Drive Goals

Foodshare’s annual “Turkey and a Twenty” food and fund drive seeks to collect 16,000 turkeys and $485,000 to help hungry families in Hartford and Tolland counties.

“That’s a 10% increase over the number of turkeys requested in 2007 and a reflection of difficult economic times,” says Foodshare President & CEO Gloria McAdam.

She asks for support from the entire community so that everyone can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal and to ensure that Foodshare has the resources needed to continue distributing food for people seeing help this winter, long after the holidays are over.

To meet the goal of 16,000 Turkeys and $485,000 "We will need an army of volunteers organizing local drives to collect donations of turkeys and funds," says Gloria on her blog. To encourage those drives, a challenge has been made to new donors. If 100 new donor groups will each collect 10 or more turkeys and $200 for Foodshare, the challenger will give Foodshare another 1,000 turkeys. Visit Foodshare's web site to access a special “turkey toolkit” section with guides, tips, and materials to help meet the challenge.

Turkey and a Twenty drop off locations (Updated for 2009):
http://site.foodshare.org/site/PageServer?pagename=TurkeyandaTwenty1

Avon
Big Y Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Miller Foods Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Bloomfield
Geissler's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Canton
Discount Foods Outlet Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Shaw's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Coventry
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8:30am-8pm); Sundays (8:30am-5pm)

Farmington
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sundays (8:30am-6pm)

Glastonbury
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sundays (8:30am-6pm)
Stop & Shop Sunday, Nov. 22 (1pm-3pm)

Granby
Geissler's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Stop & Shop Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

Hartford
Turkey Tuesday - Bank of America Tuesday, Nov. 17 (5:30am-10am)
Gordon Bonetti's Florist Monday - Friday (9am-5pm); Saturday, Nov. 21
(9am-1pm)

Hebron
Ted's Supermarket Monday - Thursday (8am-8pm); Friday (8am-8:30pm); Saturday
(8am-8pm); Sunday (8am-6pm)

Manchester
Big Y Friday, Nov. 13 (Time TBD). Hosted by Country 92.5 and Big Y.
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sunday (8:30am-6pm)

Rocky Hill
Gordon Bonetti's Florist Monday - Friday (9am-5pm); Saturday (9am-1pm)
West Side Market Place Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sunday (8am-8pm)

Simsbury
Andy's Supermarket Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Fitzgerald's Foods Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Kane's Market Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)
Stop & Shop Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8am-8pm)

South Windsor
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (10am-9pm); Sunday (10am-6pm)

Suffield
Highland Park Market Monday - Saturday (8am-9pm); Sunday (8:30am-6pm)

West Hartford
Waldbaum's Super Foodmart Monday - Saturday(7am-10pm); Sunday (7am-9pm)
Town Center Building Monday, Nov. 23 (10am-4pm)

Wethersfield
Eblens Monday, Nov. 23 (6am-2pm). Sponsored by Aetna Better Health and Hot
93.7.

Check back soon, or better yet, visit their website and donate online:
http://turkeyandatwenty.org/

Holiday Light Fantasia Canceled For 2008

One of our favorite annual traditions in Connecticut was to visit Hartford's Holiday Light Fantasia in December. The event has been held in Goodwin Park every year since 1999, except 2005 due to a generator shortage following Hurricane Katrina. Unfortunately, due to the high operating costs this year's event has been canceled. The website below simply states "We Are Sad To Announce That Holiday Light Fantasia Will Not Take Place This Year."

"The costs of oil, and therefore of operating the show, spiked so radically that the only solution would have been to double the entrance fee - unthinkable at a time of cutbacks, bailouts and unemployment and families worried that celebrating the holidays will be very different and necessarily leaner than in years past,'' a press release sent out last month said. Last year's fee was $12 per car.

If you have a minute, please visit their website to let them know you'll miss them, and want them to return next year. Hope you all come back next year!
http://www.holidaylightfantasia.com/

Below are a few photos from previous events.

The all new NBC Connecticut Website

NBC 30 sets the bar high with their brand spanking new "Local's Only" themed media-rich, content driven website NBCConnecticut.com.

The new website features a scrolling gallery of the day's top news stories, local and national. Lush graphics for weather and local live traffic news from Microsoft's Virtual Earth, Sports, Around Town, polls, pictures sent by viewers and a lot more.

Check it out at: http://www.NBCConnecticut.com/

OneThing Green Conservation Expo This Weekend October 10 -12 2008

This weekend October 10-12, 2008, the Connecticut Convention Center will host a dazzling, three-day event, the OneThing Expo: Home of a Million OneThings. The expo will highlight the endless variety of OneThings that schools, businesses and residents can do to save energy and protect the environment.

Conceived as a "World's Fair of Energy Conservation," and part of Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell's OneThing campaign, the OneThing Expo will be an engaging exploration of energy topics and an unforgettable celebration of conservation. The story will be told in bright detail by hundreds of individuals and organizations across the state - and the country - representing a myriad of industries and topics, including agriculture, recreation, transportation, building technology, the arts and education, alternative energy, consumer products and much more. More than 250 exhibitors and thousands of visitors from Maine to Maryland are expected to take part.

Highlights:

Friday, October 10
A Day for Schools and Businesses What's the Deal ... OneThing "What's the Deal Registration form" This focused business-to-business event and trade show in the Grand Ballroom/Upper Level of the Connecticut Convention Center is designed as Connecticut's largest business energy conference. The day will feature more than 40 exhibitors, 600+ attendees, and a series of panel discussions and keynote speaker presentations from some of the region's most well-known energy/business industry experts. The event is presented by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association, the Connecticut Power and Energy Society and the Office of Policy and Management.

Saturday, October 11, 2008 and Sunday, October 12, 2008
OneThing-Palooza! Throughout the weekend, people of all ages can tour OneThing-Palooza!, a 24,000 square foot interactive area featuring Stepping Stones Museum for Children's new "Conservation Quest" exhibit, an invention area and an energy-themed maze. The Palooza! also will showcase dozens of statewide community partners, special energy conservation programming and performances, and short films on conservation and climate change at the Connecticut Science Center Climate Change Theater. The OneThing Palooza! is being designed by the Connecticut Science Center and Norwalk-based Stepping Stones Museum for Children. The Palooza! will be open throughout the three-day Expo.

Show Hours:
Friday - 10 am - 6 pm
Saturday - 10 am - 9 pm
Sunday - 10 am - 6 pm

Tickets:
Adults - $8
Seniors - $4
Children under 12 - Free
Save $2 (click here for coupon)

Directions to the Convention Center:
Connecticut Convention Center
100 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: 860-249-6000 Fax: 860-249-6161
http://www.ctconventions.com/directions/index.php

For more information about OneThing please visit:
www.onethingct.com

Fall Driving Tours in Connecticut

The new Fall Foliage Driving Tours brochure from the Connecticut River Valley is out now with nine different self-guided driving tours in the River Valley.

The nine different self-guided driving tours in the River Valley's Fall Driving Tours each showcase a different part of the 46-town region:

1. Connecticut River - Metacomet Ridge Tour
Windsor,Windsor Locks, East Granby, Suffield.
Highlights include: Bielonko Farm, Brown's Harvest, Halladay Farm, Kuras Farm, Metacomet Trail, Noden-Reed House & Barn, Northwest Park and Nature Center.

2. Tobacco Valley Driving Tour
Enfield, Somers, Stafford, Ellington, East Windsor, Windsor Locks
Highlights include: Easy Pickin’s Orchard, Johnny Appleseed’s Farm, Trinity Farm.

3. East of the River Driving Tour
Glastonbury, Hebron, Andover, Manchester
Highlights include: Berruti’s Harvest Farm, Belltown Hill Orchards, D. Scaglia Fruit Farm, Rose’s Berry Farm, Scott’s Orchard & Nursery, Woodland Farm.

4. Farmington Valley Tour
Farmington, Avon, Simsbury, Collinsville
Highlights include: Avon Cider Mill, Flamig Farm, Pickin’ Patch, Talcott Mountain State Park.

5. Quinnipiac River and Metacomet Trail Tour
Southington, Plantsville, Cheshire, Meriden
Highlights include: Farmington Canal HeritageTrail, Hubbard Park and Castle Craig, Metacomet Trail, Shuttle Meadow Reservoir

6. Central Connecticut Tour
New Britain, Berlin, Kensington, Southington
Highlights include: Blue Hills Farm, Chotkowski Farm, DeMaria Family Farm, Karabin Farms, Laviana Orchards, Lewis Farms, Rogers Orchards,
Zarrella Farms.

7. Old Wethersfield, Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry and Brownstone Quarry Tour
Rocky Hill, Glastonbury, Portland, Cobalt, Middle Haddam, East Hampton,Wethersfield
Highlights include: Brownstone Quarry, Draghi & Sons Farm, Gram’s Farm, Hurd State Park, Q-P Farm Market, Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry, Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum.

8. Gillette Castle and Devil's Hopyard State Parks Tour
Middletown, Haddam, East Haddam, Chester
Highlights include: Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, Devil’s Hopyard State Park,
Gillette Castle State Park, Haddam Meadows State Park

9. Connecticut River Tidelands Tour
Essex, Old Saybrook,Westbrook
Highlights include: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Ride, RiverQuest Cruises, Scott’s CT Valley Orchard, Scott’s Farm & Greenhouse.

The brochure can be downloaded from Central Regional Tourism District's website, www.visitctriver.com. To order a copy to be mailed to you, call 800-793-4480.

Halloween's Haunted Happenings in CT

(Above) West Hartford.

Here are a few Haunted Happenings in Connecticut for October 2008... if you have an event unlisted please let me know by emailing me spooky (at) thisisct.net

Scarecrows Along Main Street

Dozens of scarecrows of all sizes, shapes and descriptions will "take up residence" along the business section of Main Street in Old Wethersfield. The free event is best enjoyed during daylight hours. Old Wethersfield is a wonderful place to visit during the fall season and the scarecrows are one more reason to make the trip. Smiles are guaranteed. For more information call (860) 563-4236 or (860) 257-0366.
September 27 through October 26, 2008
http://wethersfieldct.com/node/889

The Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce

Experience the thrills and chills at this annual event. Open weekends in October. A portion of the proceeds from The Haunted Graveyard are donated to the American Diabetes Association as well as local schools and associations.
October 3 - November 1, dusk - midnight
Admission:
Combo Graveyard & Rides, Adult $27.95, Child $20.95
Haunted Graveyard Only, Adult $19.95, Child $13.95
Lake Compounce Rides Only, Adult $17.95, Child $12.95
* Click here for coupon
The Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce, 271 Enterprise Drive, Bristol, CT 06010
www.hauntedgraveyard.com



Fright Haven

FRIGHT HAVEN is CT's Newest and Greatest Haunted House Attraction, with three different haunted houses of horror all under the same roof: Dead End Manor, Pitch Black Frightmare Fear Institute and Carnival of Evil in 3D. 25,000 square ft of indoor terror (open even if it rains) - SCARIER & GORIER!Proceeds benefit our designated charity, United Way of Greater New Haven, and their statewide 2-1-1 community and human services information and referral program.
Friday, October 3, 7 pm - 10 pm
Saturday, October 4, 7 pm - 10 pm
Sunday, October 5, 7 pm - 10 pm
Friday, October 10, 7 pm - Midnight
Saturday, October 11, 7 pm - Midnight
Sunday, October 12, 7 pm - 10 pm
Thursday, October 16, 7 pm - 10 pm
Friday, October 17, 7 pm - Midnight
Saturday, October 18, 7 pm - Midnight
Sunday, October 19, 7 pm - 10 pm
Thursday, October 23, 7 pm - 10 pm
Friday, October 24, 7 pm - Midnight
Saturday, October 25, 7 pm - Midnight
Sunday, October 26, 7 pm - 10 pm
Tuesday, October 28, 7 pm - 9 pm COLLEGE NIGHT! Come in costume or make-up for prizes!!
Wednesday, October 29, 7 pm - 9 pm COLLEGE NIGHT! Come in costume or make-up for prizes!!
Thursday, October 30, 7 pm - 11 pm HAPPY PRE-HALLOWEEN! Come in costume or make-up for prizes!!
Friday, October 31, 7 pm - Midnight HAPPY HALLOWEEN Come in costume or make-up for prizes!!
Saturday, November 1, 7 pm - Midnight
1 - 3 pm MATINEE Family fun day - kids welcome "LIGHTS ON" matinee party!
7 pm - Midnight FINAL FEAR NIGHT CELEBRATION!
Tickets: $10.00 per single attraction - AVAILABLE THURSDAY & SUNDAY ONLY
$20.00 for all three attractions
$35.00 V.I.P. for all attractions
Fright Haven is located at 480 Saw Mill Road (across from Wal-Mart) in West Haven, CT
www.frighthaven.com


Ghost Hunter Lorraine Warren to Present Talk

For over 45 years, Lorraine Warren has painstakingly investigated the realm of the supernatural throughout America, Europe and Australia. Lorraine and her late husband Ed's investigative research on over 3500 cases of psychic phenomena has convinced them beyond a shadow of doubt of the existence of ghosts, demons, witches, Satanist, vampires and werewolves.
Friday, October 17, 2008, 8 pm
Tickets $20 each and can be purchased in advance by calling at (203) 332-4243, or they can be purchased at the door the night of the event.
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610
www.beardsleyzoo.org


Halloween Parade!
Come to the store dressed in your Halloween costume! There will be a parade around the store and a goodie bag will be handed out (please call ahead to register to ensure getting the goodie bag).
Thursday 23rd 4pm-5pm
Babies R Us in Milford, 1522 Boston Post Road, Milford 06460
To register please call: (203) 876-9979

Halloween Parade!

Come to the store dressed in your Halloween costume! There will be a parade around the store and a goodie bag will be handed out (please call ahead to register to ensure getting the goodie bag).
Thursday 23rd 4 pm - 5 pm
Waterford Babies R Us, 915 hartford Turnpike, Waterford, CT 06385
To register please call: (860) 447-4593


Boo at the Zoo
Free admission for children under 12 in costume accompanied by their (paying) families. The event will feature music, candy, games and crafts.
Sunday, October 26, noon - 3 pm
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610
www.beardsleyzoo.org


11th Annual Halloween "Haunted Hayride" in Old SayBrOOk
All year long, the volunteer fire department puts out fires, but during Halloween, its volunteers ignite a "blaze" of scary proportions for all to enjoy. A possessed tractor-drawn hay wagon leads visitors into the deep, dark, demented woods of Scary Old SayBrOOk. For more than 40 minutes, you will venture into the ghastly world of ghosts, goblins, and ghouls. In the eerie fog, you'll be frightened by the bone-chilling sounds of creatures of the night: which are in front, which are behind and witch are from the great, great beyond? Funds from the annual hayride event benefit the all-volunteer Old Saybrook Fire Company No. 1 Inc. and a food drive for the Shoreline Soup Kitchen & Pantries.
Friday the 17th, Trailer Rides Start at 7:00 pm (Dusk)
Saturday the 18th, Trailer Rides Start at 7:00 pm (Dusk)
Thursday the 23rd, Trailer Rides Start at 7:00 pm (Dusk)
Friday the 24th & on Trailer Rides Start at 7:00 pm (Dusk)
Saturday the 25th,Trailer Rides Start at 7:00 pm (Dusk)
Clark Memorial Field (Fireman’s Field), 210 Elm Street, Old Saybrook, (across from Pasta Vita).
Admission: $10 Adults, Children under 12 - $5.00
*Bring a can of food to donate for the Shoreline Soup Kitchen & receive $1.00 off admission .
**Please note, the haunted hayride is very scary and may be frightening to younger children (under 10 years of age), so parental discretion is advised.
www.oldsaybrookfire.com/hayride.html

Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day Saturday, September 27th 2008

Enjoy FREE Museum Admission courtesy of Smithsonian Magazine on Saturday, September 27th 2008.

16 great Connecticut museums are participating in this year's Museum Day, which offers free general admission to hundreds of museums across the country...

Visit the website below to register, and print your free admission coupon.
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/

Participating venues in Connecticut

Bruce Museum
Greenwich

Bush-Holley Historic Site
Cos Cob

Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut
Niantic

Connecticut Historical Society
Hartford

Earthplace, The Nature Discovery Center
Westport

Fairfield Museum and History Center
Fairfield

Florence Griswold Museum
Old Lyme

Hill-Stead Museum
Farmington

Lyman Allyn Art Museum
New London

Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center
Mashantucket

Skitch Henderson Museum
New Milford

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum
Ridgefield

The Children's Museum
West Hartford

The Golden Age of Trucking Museum
Middlebury

The Slater Memorial Museum
Norwich

Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History
New Haven

Visit the Smithsonian website below to register, and print your free admission coupon.
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/

Follow the Ice Cream Trail: Sundae Drives

We've had the Art Trail, the Freedom Trail, have to mention the Wine Trail, the kind of trail that goes mostly uphill, and now the Ice Cream Trail, the most delicious one of all. Sounds like my kind of trail.

A newly released brochure from the Eastern Regional Tourism District of Connecticut lists 35 places from the Quiet Corner, to the shoreline to get yourself a cold one, or a hot fudge number. From a 50s Era Ice Cream Stand in Putnam, to home or Connecticut made, farms, mansions, museums and more.

As the brochure says, "Nothing licks a hot Summer day like an ice cream cone." True, but why limit yourself to Summer?" Check out the best ice cream Connecticut has to offer on the trail.

The "Follow the Ice Cream Trail: Sundae Drives," brochure is available in PDF Format at http://www.mysticcountry.com/

50 Cent's Mansion in Farmington For Sale

OK, admit it, you're totally curious. You've always wanted a sneak-peak at rapper 50 Cent's Farmington mansion, but you don't fancy scaling the walls (yes I've heard of people trying this - and I'm not recommending it), and you're not willing to drop the reported $18,500,000 price tag. Not this week anyway, check out the listing on the real estate website below. This is how the other half lives - with 54 different places to "powder your nose".

The listing describes the fabulously crazy crib as an "Exquisite sprawling compound designed for extended households. Grand lobby with dual circular staircases and elevator, a board room, spacious office..." The palatial pad sits on 17 acres of land and also includes an elaborate Baccarat crystal dining room chandelier, an outdoor sports court, an infinity edge pool and spacious hot tub tucked behind a waterfall in the rock grotto. The entire back of the house overlooks a beautiful Koi pond with a picture perfect guest house across the water. The gate house sets the stage for state-of-the-art security behind a gated entry.

Here you can take a look around the huge 51657 sq. ft. 19 bedroom, 35 bathroom "house".
http://homes.realtor.com/prop/1081115819#Detail

Connecticut Olympians Day

Governor Rell Declares “Connecticut Olympians Day” to Honor Olympic Athletes with State Ties

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the official U.S. Olympic flag will fly high above the Capitol this weekend in honor of the 14 Olympians with Connecticut ties competing in the Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

The Governor is declaring Friday, August 8, 2008 – the start of the XXIX Olympiad – “Connecticut Olympians Day” and requested the flag be raised tomorrow and remain there through the weekend.

From UConn basketball great Diana Taurasi to five-time Olympian and gold medalist archer Butch Johnson to twin brothers from Greenwich in the rowing competition, the group represents the best-of-the-best in a variety of sports. In addition to the athletes, Connecticut Sun Head Coach Mike Thibault is an assistant coach for U.S. Women’s Basketball.

“These 14 Olympians have spent their lifetime training for this special moment and have made tremendous personal sacrifices along the way,” Governor Rell said. “I will be cheering them on as they demonstrate the ultimate in sportsmanship and mental toughness that has earned them a spot on the U.S. Olympic team.”

The U.S. is sending 596 athletes, 310 men and 286 women, to Beijing to compete in 30 sports. The Olympics run from August 8 to August 24.

“I could not be prouder of the athletes from Connecticut who are representing our country in the 2008 Olympics. They are true role models for sports fans of all ages across the state,” Governor Rell said.

The following Olympians have ties to Connecticut:

• Emily Caruso, Fairfield – Shooting
• Michelle Guerette, Bristol – Rowling, Women’s Single Sculls
• Butch Johnson, Woodstock – Archery, Recurve. The five-time Olympian was 1996 Gold Medalist and 2000 Bronze Medalist
• Kenneth Jurkowski , New Fairfield – Rowing, Men’s Single Sculls
• Daniel Walsh, Norwalk – Rowing, Men’s Eight
• Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, Greenwich – Rowing, Men’s Pair
• Sue Bird, UConn – Women’s Basketball
• James Blake, grew up in Fairfield – Men’s Tennis
• Amanda Clark, Connecticut College – Sailing
• Sada Jacobson, Yale University – Fencing
• Courtney King-Dye, New Milford – Equestrian
• Stu McNay, Yale University – Sailing
• Diana Taurasi, UConn – Women’s Basketball
• Mike Thibault (Connecticut Sun head coach) – Women’s Basketball, Assistant Coach

Save Big with the CT Sales Tax Holiday Week

Connecticut Sales Tax Holiday on Items of Clothing and Footwear costing under $300 - August 17 - 23, 2008

Connecticut shoppers will have one week to buy items of clothing and footwear costing under $300 without paying Connecticut sales tax (hooray!). This year, the tax free week will run from Sunday, August 17 through Saturday, August 23, 2008.

More information about the rules that apply to the sales tax free week can be found here:
http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1514&q=318566

Connecticut Farmers Markets

Farmer's Market Freshness All Year Long

Summer brings a welcome change in temperature, extra hours of sunshine and the fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmer’s market we’ve been craving all year.

Before heading out to your local farmer’s market, consider the following tips from the Reynolds Kitchens to help you pick the best produce and keep it tasting just-picked fresh all year.

Explore your options
Don’t purchase everything from the first stand you visit, as the variety and quality of produce will likely differ from stand to stand. Take a lap around the entire market for a better idea of where the freshest produce is and you’ll walk away more satisfied with your purchases. It’s not uncommon to get all of your produce from different vendors.

What to look for
Look for produce that is free from unusual odors or colors and signs of spoilage such as mold and bruising. Remember that sometimes buying under ripe produce is a good option. Peaches, cantaloupe and nectarines are examples of fruits that will continue to ripen at room temperature after they are picked. Also, don’t be shy about talking with the vendors. They know which products are the freshest and most delicious.

If you like it, buy it
If you come across the sweetest strawberries or the most succulent squash at the market, don’t be afraid to buy in bulk. Most of the food you’ll find at the farmer’s market will last for months if frozen. Storing foods using the Reynolds Handi-Vac Vacuum Sealing System virtually eliminates freezer burn and will help protect your produce.

Buy realistically
Certain foods fare poorly in the freezer no matter how well they’re packaged. Tomatoes, celery and potatoes lose their crispness and get watery. Avocados are only recommended to be frozen when mashed (not whole or sliced).

Many people avoid buying fresh fruits and vegetables - healthy meal staples - out of the fear that a large portion will go to waste. This summer, take advantage of fresh produce at the markets and simply vacuum freeze whatever won’t be used in a week. Doing so will save you money and ensure that your favorite summer fruits and vegetables are always available.


For a list of Connecticut Farmer's Markets please click here:
http://www.thisisct.net/2006/05/connecticut-farmers-markets.html

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Connecticut Staycation Savings

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the launch of "Connecticut – Your Staycation Destination"-- a summer program offering discounts for Connecticut residents at more than 300 attractions showcased throughout the state.

The destinations and many great discounts are featured on the state's website.

Or click here to view the list of special offers and discounts in PDF format.

Free Swim Lessons at CT State Parks and YMCAs

Governor Rell Announces Free Swim Lessons at State Parks and YMCAs

Governor M. Jodi Rell announced today that the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Connecticut Alliance of YMCAs are teaming up to help make certain Connecticut’s families are safe at the beach or swimming pool this summer by sponsoring numerous activities for a Water Safety Week and offering free swim lessons at YMCAs and state parks.

Governor Rell said DEP and the YMCAs have scheduled Water Safety Week for next week, June 23-28. The week will feature free water safety programs at YMCAs across the state and a special family Water Safety Extravaganza at Indian Well State Park, Shelton, on June 28 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission to the park will be free for this event.

The lessons are funded by DEP and three other state agencies with a strong interest in the well being of families and young people: the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Public Health and the Connecticut Children’s Trust Fund.

Information about Water Safety Week Activities and the free swim lessons at YMCAs and the state parks will be available at www.ct.gov/dep and www.nochildleftinside.org . Details on swimming programs at local YMCAs are also available at www.ymca.net

Details on Free Swim Lessons at State Parks:

Under the DEP/YMCA free swim lesson program, lessons will take place at the following state parks:

Black Rock, Thomaston

• July 2nd to August 13th - Wednesdays
• All at Black Rock State Park from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
• Contact Pattie Flaherty
• Waterbury YMCA 203-754-9622 ext. 112
  

Burr Pond, Torrington

• June 30th to July 15th – Monday to Thursday
• All at Burr Pond
• Contact Sabrina Smeltz, Northwestern Middlesex YMCA 860-824-2788
  

Rocky Neck, East Lyme

• July 14th to 18th – Monday through Friday
• All at Rocky Neck State Park - mornings
• Contact person Cathy, YMCA of Southeastern Connecticut 860-889-7349
  

Sherwood Island, Westport

• July 11th to August 22nd
• All at Sherwood Island – 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
• Contact Maureen Scinto or Erin Russell
• Fairfield YMCA 203-255-2834 ext. 2318 or ext. 2325
• August 4th to 8th Monday to Friday
• All at Sherwood Island - afternoons
• Contact Karin Guariglia, Westport YMCA 203-226-8981 ext. 128
  

Squantz Pond, New Fairfield

• July 28th to August 1st Monday to Friday
• All classes at Squantz Pond – afternoons
• Contact Veronika, 203-744-1000 ext. 106, or Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut 203-744-1000 ext. 106
  

Stratton Brook, Simsbury

• July 8, 15, 22 – 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Stratton Brook State Park
• All lessons at Stratton Brook
• Contact Michael Kerrigan, Greater Hartford YMCA 860-793-9631

Details on Free Swim Lessons at YMCAs

Waterbury

• June 23rd to July 16th, with two lessons at Black Rock State Park July 14th and 16th
• July 21st to August 13th, with two lessons at Black Rock State Park August 11th and 13th
• Contact Patti Flaherty, Waterbury YMCA 203-754-9622 ext. 112
  

New Britain

• June 23rd to June 27th 4:30 pm - 5:15 pm and 5:15 pm - 6:00 pm, with one lesson a field trip to Black Rock State Park
• Contact Christian Pollard, New Britain YMCA 860-229-3787
  

Stratford

• June 27th to August 22nd – Fridays, with first six classes at the Stratford YMCA and two at Indian Wells State Park
• Contact Courtney and Lisa at 203-375-5844 ext. 16
  

Bridgeport

• June 23rd to July 19th and July 27th to August 23rd at the Bridgeport YMCA, with one lesson at Sherwood Island State Park
• Contact Christine Morandi, Bridgeport YMCA 203-334-5551 ext. 16
  

New Haven

• In July, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with one lesson at Silver Sands State Park
• Contact Suzy Killbridge, New Haven Youth Center YMCA 203-776-9622
  

Danbury

• June 30th and August 11th on Mondays, with five classes at Green Knoll pool and two classes at Squantz Pond August 4th and August 11th
• Contact person Sonya Williams, Green Knolls YMCA, 203-775-4444 ext. 133
  

Hartford

• June 23rd to 27th at the Learning Corridor with three lessons at Stratton Brook State Park on July 8, 15, 22, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
• Contact Michael Kerrigan, Greater Hartford YMCA 860-793-9631
  

Meriden

• Seven weeks at Meriden YMCA, with two lessons at Wadsworth State park
• Contact Jamie Tennyson 860-729-9748

Save the Mark Twain House

Mark Twain's 3 Story Victorian mansion in Hartford is a Connecticut landmark, and it is in danger of closing due to financial problems.

Mark Twain said of this house, "To us, our house . . . had a heart, and a soul, and eyes to see us with; and approvals and solicitudes and deep sympathies; it was of us, and we were in its confidence and lived in its grace and in the peace of it benediction." www.twainquotes.com

To help save this landmark please visit:
http://www.marktwainhouse.org/

Staycation Connecticut Style

Staycation – a word originally coined by Brent Butt from the hit Canadian comedy Corner Gas – has been bandied about quite a bit recently. Watch the news, the ever-rising cost of filling up your tank is The Top Story in most cases. Enter The Staycation. What is a Staycation? In Brent Butt’s case, it’s an escape from his everyday life at Corner Gas. Brent takes a deckchair and sits outside his gas station with sunglasses, shorts and a case of beer, and sends “verbal postcards” to anyone who tries to talk to him as he imagines himself in some exotic locale. In our case, Staycation is a way to save money by staying local this summer. The message is you don’t need to be a tourist to visit Connecticut.

Instead of flying somewhere or driving out-of-state you can save a ton of money by taking a look at what’s available for you to do locally. Here are some suggestions for staying local this summer.

Update (7/3/2008) Today Gov. Rell introduced the Connecticut Staycation program that includes savings at 300 locations in Connecticut. Details can be found here.



Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport
Arguably Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport are Connecticut’s top tourist attraction. Now with the Mystic Sea Everything Passcard (Over $250 in value*), $49 adults $45 senior 65+, $39 youth (6-17), $20 child (3-5) this pass includes Admission to Mystic Seaport and admission to Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, a large fountain drink at both locations, a limited edition Mystic Sea Tee Shirt and multiple discounts for restaurants, shopping and lodgings in the Mystic Area. See website below for details.
Expect to pay: With the promotion Mystic Sea Everything Passcard $49 adults, $39 children.
Individually:
Mystic Seaport: $18.50 adults, $16.50 Seniors, $13.00 children
Mystic Aquarium: $23.00 adults, $20.00 Seniors, $17.00 children, Children age 2 and under are FREE
http://www.mystic.org/passcard/


Museums

Open House Day – Saturday June 14th 2008
You can visit a local museum any time of the year, but on Connecticut Open House Day, almost 200 CT attractions will open their doors to the public at dramatically reduced prices, or even free. If there’s a museum you always wanted to visit, but had put it on the back burner, here’s your chance.
Expect to pay: On Open House Day lots of bargains, or free entry. Regularly between $5 and $25 for most museums.
Click here to see the complete list of participating venues.
www.thisisct.net


Casinos

Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun Casino
There’s something for everyone at Connecticut’s casinos. From shopping and dining, to great concerts, oh, and you might win something. Add a casino to your destination this summer.

MGM Grand at Foxwoods provides a total luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment experience.
www.mgmatfoxwoods.com Mashantucket, CT

Foxwoods is the largest casino in the world, with 340000 square feet of gaming space in a complex that covers 4.7 million square feet.
www.foxwoods.com Mashantucket, CT

Mohegan Sun covers 240 acres (97 hectares) along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut.
www.mohegansun.com Uncasville, CT



Amusement Parks

Lake Compounce in Bristol, open May – October.
Play all day on rides like Boulder Dash, Zoomerang and Thunder n’ Lightning. Chill near the lake in Anchor Bay, Clipper Cove and Mammoth Falls. Little thrill seekers will enjoy Garfield’s Circus World -perfect for ages 3-10, and families can enjoy our newest addition, Zoomer's Gas n' Go!
Expect to pay: $33.95 Regular Admission (52" and taller), $33.95 Junior Admission (Under 52" tall), $24.95 Senior Admission (Over 60 years of age), $17.95 After 5 pm $17.95, 3 years and under FREE
www.lakecompounce.com

Quassy Amusement Park in Lake Quassapaug Middlebury, open May – October.
Rides for kids and adults, Quassy Beach & Saturation Station and Family Entertainment Center.
Expect to pay: Saturday Carload - 5pm -10pm (Parking charge included! May 24-Aug. 30) $20.00
Adult (45 inches and taller) All-Day Ride & "Saturation Station" Pass $21.00
Kids (under 45 inches) All-Day Ride & "Saturation Station" Pass $17.00
Senior Citizens All-Day Ride & "Saturation Station" Pass $17.00
After 5pm Ride Pass (Excludes July 4) $9.00
Visit the website below for a printable coupon.
http://www.quassy.com/coupons.htm

Out of State, but still local:
Six Flags (Springfield, MA)
http://www.sixflags.com/newEngland/index.aspx

The Big E
For 17 days each September, Eastern States Exposition Center hosts the largest fair in the northeast and the 8th largest in North America, The Big E, in West Springfield, MA. Over 1.2 million visitors experienced the Big E last year.
This year’s Exposition is from September 12 - 28, 2008.
http://www.thebige.com/



Local Animal Parks

Action Wildlife, Route 4 in Goshen, CT
An animal haven with a petting zoo and drive-through Safari.
Expect to pay: $10 adults, $8 children under 12
www.actionwildlife.org

Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport, CT
Over 80 years as Connecticut's only zoo.
Expect to pay: $11.00 adult (ages 12 & older), $9.00 child (ages 3 -11), $9.00 Senior (62 & older), Under 3 years FREE
www.beardsleyzoo.com

Mystic Aquarium, Mystic, CT
CT’s top attraction with Beluga Whales, African Penguins, Sting Rays, Sharks and more.
Expect to pay: $23.00 adults, $20.00 Seniors, $17.00 children, Children age 2 and under are FREE
www.mysticaquarium.org

The Maritime Aquarium, Norwalk, CT
Highlight: Great White Alligator (only 44 exist)
Expect to pay: Value Pass (Aquarium + Daytime IMAX Movie + Ride Film*) $21.50 adults, $17.50 child, $20.00 Senior
Aquarium Only $11.00 adults, $9.00 child, $10.00 Senior
www.maritimeaquarium.org

Out of State, but still local:
Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence, RI www.rogerwilliamsparkzoo.org
Highlight: Flutterby: Butterflies in Bloom (May 24 – September 1)


Riverfront Recapture
From June through October there are over 20 free events on the riverfront in Hartford. Events include free concerts, ballet, Riverfest, the Riverfront Grand Prix, festivals including, a Taste of the Caribbean, Dragon Boat Races, a Celtic festival and more.
www.riverfront.org


State Parks and Beaches

More than 800 miles of hiking trails. 2,000 miles of rivers and streams. 1,300 campsites in 14 parks. 9 historic sites. 237 lakes and ponds. It all adds up to some amazing natural resources and recreational activities. And it’s all right here, in Connecticut’s 138 State Parks and Forests!


Expect to pay: Varied Parking
http://www.nochildleftinside.org/parks/map.php

Beaches
Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT
Lighthouse Point Park, New Haven, CT
Rocky Neck State Park, East Lyme, CT
Sherwood Island State Park, Westport, CT
Silver Sands State Park, Milford, CT
Expect to pay: Varied Parking
http://www.ct.gov/dep/


CT Wine Trail
The Connecticut wine trail is a state approved winery and vineyard awareness program complete with special directional signs, brochures and special events. No matter where you are in Connecticut there is one or more wineries open to visitors within a 45 minute drive. There are 16 wineries in CT.
Expect to pay: Varied
For a complete list please visit:
http://www.thisisct.net/2007/03/connecticut-wine-trail.html


Connecticut Fairs
From July through October there are over 50 major fairs, local fairs, district fairs and 4-H fairs all over Connecticut.
For a complete listing please click here:
http://www.ctfairs.org/fair_map.aspx


Sports
Connecticut's Summer Sports include Basketball, Baseball, Tennis and Golf.

Connecticut Sun (Basketball)
May – August, Mohegan Sun Casino, Uncasville, CT
Expect to pay: $16
www.wnba.com/sun

Bridgeport Bluefish (Baseball)
May – September, Bridgeport, CT
Expect to pay: $6.00, $10.00, $14.00, and $20.00
All season long residents of Bridgeport will receive $2 off any WALK-UP ticket.
www.bridgeportbluefish.com

New Britain Rock Cats (Baseball)
May – September, New Britain, CT
Expect to pay: Club $12, Field Box $10, Reserved - Adult $8
Reserved - Senior / Child $6, General Admission $5
www.rockcats.com

Connecticut Defenders (Baseball)
May – September
www.ctdefenders.com

Travelers Championship, Cromwell, CT
June 16 - 22, 2008
Expect to pay: $25 online purchase, $32 at gate, kds 15 and Under Free, when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
www.travelerschampionship.com

Pilot Pen Tennis Tournament, Yale, CT
August 15 – 23, 2008
Expect to pay: $16 - $40 adult, $8 - $20 Junior
www.pilotpentennis.com

Uconn Football
August – December, Rentschler Field, East Hartford, CT
www.UCONNhuskies.com


Racing

Lime Rock Park
http://www.limerock.com/

Waterford Speedbowl
http://www.speedbowl.com/

Thompson International Speedway
http://www.thompsonspeedway.com/


Ice Cream
Take an Ice Cream Tour of Connecticut
http://www.thisisct.net/

Orange County Choppers visit Mystic Aquarium

Love bikes? Love Penguins? What's not to love I say! Tomorrow (April 30) Mikey Teutul from the very popular Discovery Channel show Orange County Choppers will be at Mystic Aquarium filming a segment for the show because the O.C.C. crew has created a penguin-themed bike (can't wait to see this).

Get the whole story here:
http://www.norwichbulletin.com/entertainment/x170777145

New Connecticut Teen Driving Laws

In a ceremony at Conard High School in West Hartford this afternoon, Governor M. Jodi Rell signed a bill into law that tightens restrictions on teen drivers and levies tougher penalties for teens who violate the rules of the road. The bill, spearheaded by Governor Rell, toughens restrictions and penalties, rolls back the evening curfew for teen drivers and provides for more on-the-road training of teen drivers.

“We have lost far too many irreplaceable young lives in recent years,” Governor Rell said. “What makes these terrible tragedies on our roads even harder to bear is that every single one is avoidable. This new law will strengthen our legal tools for training and protecting young drivers, and I believe it will help to save lives. Connecticut will now have some of the strongest graduated driving licensing regulations in the country.”


So, what does the new Connecticut Teen Driving Law mean for you?

• Drivers under 18 must be off the road by 11 p.m., one hour earlier than now; exceptions are allowed for jobs, school and religious reasons.
• Parents must attend two hours of instruction on teen-driving laws before a child takes his or her license test.
• Fines are increased for certain moving violations and for violations of the passenger restriction, the curfew restriction and for cell phone violations.
• On-road training is doubled, from 20 hours to 40 hours, for teens getting learner's permits after August 1.
• Penalties are increased for teen drivers' passengers not wearing seat belts.
• Suspension periods are increased for 16- and 17-year-olds for reckless driving and motor vehicle racing. (Suspension of six months for the first offense.)
• License suspensions are established for speeding (60 days) and for use of cell phones (30 days) by 16- and 17-year-olds.
• Teens who violate provisions of the graduated license rules would lose their privileges for 30 days.
• To regain a suspended license, the 16- or 17-year-old and his parent or legal guardian must appear in person at the police department, state police barracks, or other designated location and sign a written acknowledgement of its return.
  

“I thank all the members of my Teen Driving Task Force,” Governor Rell said. “They did the leg work and the research, held the meetings, listened to the public’s ideas and made recommendations. I commend the legislature for this bipartisan effort."

“I also thank the public for providing our task force with valuable input during the statewide forums. You shared stories about your loved ones. You spoke of personal tragedies that could have been prevented. You had a major impact in crafting this law.”

The law, HB-5748, “An Act Concerning Teenage Drivers,” takes effect August 1, 2008.

For more information please visit:
http://www.ct.gov/teendriving/cwp/view.asp?Q=413528&A=3369

Winter in Connecticut

Starting to feel like winter now with all the snow, and the ice packed on! Click here to visit our homepage for a sideshow of winter images in Connecticut.

My brother is visiting me from Australia this week -- he arrives on Thursday night -- I'm pretty sure the 30-ish degrees Celsius temperature drop is going to wake him up after that 22 hour flight! I'm excited to show him a New England Winter!

Uniquely Connecticut Gifts

Looking for a uniquely Connecticut gift to give this holiday season? Or any other time of year for that matter! Here are a few ideas!


The Governor's Residence Ornament featuring The Charter Oak. The ornament is $15.00 and all proceeds benefit the Governor's Residence Conservancy. To purchase please call Carol at 860-524-7355, or Nancy at 860-524-7356. *Ornaments will also be available for purchase at the annual Holiday Open House.

Subscription to Connecticut Magazine. At time of writing, a 12-month subscription to the magazine costs under $12.




Connecticut Wines make a great gift. Connecticut is home to 15 wineries visit the CT Wine Trail page for a list of wineries.


Bridgewater Chocolate A delicious and tempting selection of chocolate treats made in Brookfield, CT including: toffees, crystallized fruit, Coconut, Marzipan Peanut Butter, Chocolate Bars, cookies and more. Gift boxes are available.
Bridgewater Chocolate, 559 Federal Road, Brookfield, CT 06804
Phone: 800-888-8742
www.bridgewaterchocolate.com



Woodbury Pewter Since 1952 Woodbury Pewter has been the manufacturer of over 350 hand-crafted pewter products all made from the highest quality, lead-free Pewter, in Woodbury, CT. Items available include candlesticks, baby gifts, dinnerware, lamps, bar ware, cutlery, trophies and much more.
Woodbury Pewterers, Inc., 860 Main Street South, Woodbury, CT 06798
Phone: 800-648-2014
www.woodburypewter.com


Larry Brautigam Master Crafted Toys
Rugged Toys for Active Kids Solidly constructed of pine - doweled or bolted - and finished with three coats of polyurethane. Heavy-duty wheels on ½" solid steel axles.
Larry Brautigam, 222 Stockings Brook Rd., Kensington, CT 06037
Phone: (860) 828-6141
http://www.madeinct.com/brautigam.htm



The Copper Weathervanes of John Garret Thew John Garret Thew is an artist, an engineer, and an inventor who, for nearly 50 years, has been creating something magical in full bodied, hand hammered, copper weathervanes. He lives in Nofolk Connecticut with his wife Eve, an accomplished artist in her own right.The "guard dog" keeps the whale (shown) on the post where it belongs and is John's trademark. Each weathervane full bodied, hand hammered copper and is signed, dated, and numbered. The copper has not been treated and will age into a rich patina over time. Available through The Connecticut Store of Waterbury.
http://www.ctstore.com/Thew.htm


Vintage Baseball Factory VBF offers the largest line of 19th century baseball goods including uniforms, caps, baseballs gloves and bats. Great for collectors and fans of vintage baseball.
Vintage Baseball Factory, 100 Wells Street, Suite 320, Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: (800) 730-8119
http://www.vbbf.com/


MGC's Custom Made Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles and Fine Art. Amazing hand crafted wooden jigsaw puzzles custom made for Adults and Children. Every puzzle is a Personalized, ONE OF A KIND Jigsaw Puzzle with as few as 4 to as many as 5,000+ puzzle pieces.
MGC's Custom Made Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles and Fine Art
31 Bogue Lane, East Haddam, CT 06423
Phone: (860) 873-3093
http://www.mgcpuzzles.com/


Wooden Bow Ties Sculptor and Author Marv Beloff has some rather unique bowties, made of wood, and they're cute too! Guaranteed, if you gift this to someone, they won't already have two in their closet.
International Wooden Bow Tie Club
24B Rosemary Lane, Middlefield, CT 06455
Phone: (860) 349-9328
http://www.woodbowties.com/Content/Selection.asp


Custom Action Figures
Looking for a custom action figure that looks just like you or someone you love? These unique gifts make the perfect present for Birthday gifts, Mothers Day Gifts, Fathers Day Gifts, Christmas Gifts, Retirement Gifts, Military Gifts, Corporate Incentives, there is no event that these would not be welcome. They can make your custom action figure in just 2 weeks. They also have an interesting selection of political and pop culture figures available.
HeroBuilders.com
198 Goodhill road, Oxford, CT 06478
Phone: (203) 888-0147
http://www.herobuilders.com


Liberty Candle Company
Dedicated to Connecticut's heritage of quality create an incredible selection of hand-made scented candles in a huge variety of styles and fragrances. Votives, tapers, pillars, tarts, tea lights, floaters, and a whole range of candle jars and bottles in over 70 different fragrances. Liberty's candle wicks are also Made in the United States and are Lead Free.
Available through The Connecticut Store
Phone: (800) 218-8845
http://www.ctstore.com/liberty.htm


Books About Connecticut Click here for a list of Books about Connecticut available from Amazon.com


For more great ideas visit:
The Connecticut Store, 120-140 Bank St. Waterbury CT, 06702
Phone: (800) 474-6728
www.theconnecticutstore.com


Do you know of any other great things that are made in Connecticut and should be mentioned here? Email me linzi @ thisisct.net or post a message in the comments.