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

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

2008 Greater New Haven Saint Patrick's Day Parade
Sunday, March 9th, 2008 at 1:30 am
The Greater New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 9 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/


2008 Greater Hartford Saint Patrick's Day Parade
Saturday, March 15, 2008 - Starting at 11:00 am
The parade starts on Capitol Avenue to Main Street to Asylum Street and ends at the Memorial Arch at Bushnell Park.
http://www.centralctceltic.com/


Stamford St. Patrick's Day Parade
Saturday, March 15th 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.


2008 Greenwich Saint Patrick's Parade
Sunday, March 16, 2008 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.


The 26th annual Bridgeport St. Patrick's Day Parade
Monday, March 17, 2008 at noon
Beginning and ending at the Arena at Harbor Yard, 600 Main St. The parade goes up Broad Street, then right onto Fairfield Avenue, right onto Main toward the Barnum Museum, and back to Harbor Yard.


2008 Mystic Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
Sunday, March 30th, 2008 at 1pm
Mystic Connecticut will host a Saint Patrick Parade on March 30th starting at 1PM in the afternoon. 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/


And for more Irish-themed events check out:

Celtic Woman
The Irish ensemble has enriched popular music with their fusion of Folk, Pop, and Classical influences. In 2005, Celtic Woman released their self-titled debut album which reached #1 on Billboard’s World Music chart. The album held the #1 spot for an incredible 68 weeks breaking a previous long-standing record. Since the breakthrough success of their first album, Celtic Woman has released two additional albums, including Celtic Woman: A Christmas Celebration and Celtic Woman: A New Journey.
Friday, March 14, 2008, 8:00 PM
Tickets: $60.00, $45.00
Mohegan Sun Arena
Mohegan Sun, 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd., Uncasville, CT 06382
Phone: (888) 226-7711
www.mohegansun.com


Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance
This international Irish dancing phenomenon has performed to sold-out houses in more than 45 countries. Audiences have an opportunity to experience this extravaganza that has helped catapult Irish dancing into the global spotlight and created a new wave of Celtic dance mania.
Friday, March 14, 2008, 8:00 pm
Saturday, March 15, 2008, 8:00 pm
Tickets: $39.00, $45.00, $48.00
Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic Street, Stamford, CT
SCA Box Office: (203) 325-4466
www.scalive.org


The Irish Rovers
These international ambassadors of Irish music have charmed and entertained people around the world. They continue to delight audiences with their exciting stage shows, never losing their timeless ability to deliver a rollicking, rousing performance of good cheer that will soon have everyone singing and clapping.
Thursday, March 20, 2008, 8:00 pm
Tickets: $21.00, $26.00, $31.00
Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic Street, Stamford, CT
SCA Box Office: (203) 325-4466
www.scalive.org

First Night Celebrations in Connecticut 2007!

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

First Night Danbury

There will be music, dancing, and children’s entertainment with fireworks on the Green at 8:00 PM.
Downtown, Danbury, CT 06810
December 31, 2007 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Admission: $5.
Phone: (203) 792-1711
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
Chef's Table, 44 Church Lane, Westport
Phone: (203) 226-3663

Trader Joe's, 400 Post Road East, Westport
Phone: (203) 226-8966

Oscar's Deli, 159 Main Street, Westport
227-3705

Senior Center, 21 Imperial Ave., Westport
Phone: (203) 341-5098

Westport Public Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport
Phone: (203) 227-8411

Westport Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport
Phone: (203) 341-1111

Westport-Weston Family Y, 59 Post Road East, Westport
Phone: (203) 226-8981

Commerce Bank, 185 Main Street, Westport
Phone: (203) 341-0490

Whole Foods/Wild Oats, 399 Post Road West, Westport
Phone: (203) 227-6858

Webster Bank, 244 Post Road East, Westport
Phone: (203) 291-7880

People's United Bank, 371 Post Road East, Westport
Phone: (203) 227-1284

Super Stop 'n Shop, 1790 Post Road East, Westport
Phone: (203) 254-2188

Weston Hardware Store, 190 Weston Rd., Weston
Phone: (203) 227-7995

Chef's Table, 1561 Post Road, Fairfield
Phone: (203) 255-1779

Wilton Family Y, 404 Danbury Rd., Wilton
Phone: (203) 762-8384

Green Demolitions, 19 Willard Rd., Norwalk
Phone: (203) 354-7355
http://www.firstnightww.com/

---

First Night Hartford 2008
It is Hartford's premiere New Year's Eve party, a multicultural, artistically unique, alcohol-free New Year's experience with hundreds bof professional musicians, artists, performance groups and exhiits.
Fireworks at 6 pm and midnight. For more information about First Night Hartford, call 860-722-9546
Admission to all First Night Hartford events is available with the purchase of one button:
Adults: $15 Youth: $2 (under 15)
Button Sales Locations:
Buttons will be available for purchase from Friday, November 23 at the following locations:
American Automobile Association
Both Big Sky Fitness Locations
Bushnell Box Office
CT Transit Information Booth
Hartford Stage
Hartford Welcome Center
Highland Park Markets
Old State House
Sovereign Bank
http://www.firstnighthartford.org/



HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR 2007!!

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.

Best Places To Live in CT

Do you live in one of the Best Places in America? Money Magazine has put out it's annual list of the best places to live for 2007, and four Connecticut towns were on the list!

In its annual "Best Places to Live in America" list, MONEY ranks Rocky Hill number 35th, Somers number 53rd, Trumbull 68th and North Haven 86th nationwide.

With an initial list of 2,876 places that have populations between 7,500 and 50,000, data provider OnBoard of New York City and consultant Bert Sperling of Bestplaces.net, helped MONEY's editors narrow the list to a select group of promising towns.

The Best List is based on economic vitality, job availability, safety, resident's health, ethnic and racial diversity, cultural amenities, green space and other economic and quality-of-life measures. Acknowledging what's on readers' minds right now, this year's rankings gave extra consideration to home pricing and property taxes. MONEY reporters also personally visited each town on the list, interviewing residents and community leaders to assess the town's pride of place and sense of community.

Middleton, Wisconsin won the No. 1 spot.

To read the full article, please visit:
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2007/

Linzi
Managing Editor
www.ThisIsCT.net
connected to connecticut.
things to do. web. blog. events.

Can You Do One Thing Green Today?

Can you do one thing green today?

Ready to get your green on? Today Governor M. Jodi Rell announced the launch of a brand new website, statewide marketing effort and advertising campaign that will help Connecticut residents save money on their energy bills and make a positive contribution to the environment: OneThing.

OneThing builds on the enormous impact that could be achieved if every person in Connecticut did one thing, every day, to help conserve all forms of energy – from electricity and gasoline to natural gas and renewable resources.

“Energy is a global issue and sometimes we have trouble getting our arms around it – not just the ‘we’ of policy-makers but the ‘we’ of you and me.”

“Think about it: If everyone in Connecticut did one thing that would be 3.5 million OneThings. If everyone in the state did one thing a day, every day, that would be more than a billion OneThings over the course of a year – a billion ways to reduce greenhouse gases, save energy and save money. That’s enough to have a truly profound impact, to make a real difference. OneThing really can change everything,” the Governor said.

If every household in the nation replaced just one incandescent bulb with a CFL it would save enough energy to light 3 million homes, save $600 million in energy costs or remove the equivalent of 800,000 cars’ worth of greenhouse gas emissions, according to Energy Star estimates.

“Of course, this is just the first of the OneThings I plan to do,” Governor Rell said. “I will also be advocating this program on a regular basis, including publicly recognizing those who have firmly demonstrated a commitment to OneThing and working with state lawmakers to foster their commitment to the idea. I truly believe that all of our OneThings will add up to thousands of things that will save money for consumers and business alike, reduce energy consumption and protect our earth – and ultimately, these are the things that matter the most.”


The OneThing campaign comprises several elements, including print, radio, television and outdoor advertising as well as a spectacular event planned for fall 2008 at the Connecticut Convention Center: the OneThing Expo: Home of a Million One Things. The Governor said more details of the planned Expo will be released in the coming weeks.

Among the website's suggestions for "OneThing" that you can do are:

• onething your utility company is doing to help you conserve energy is giving you a reward for saving! If you use less electricity this summer than you did last summer, you can earn a credit on your electric bill.
• onething one CFL can save enough to buy 35 ice cream cones.
• onething take a 10 minute shower in 8 minutes, you'll save energy and get just as clean.
• onething wash clothes in cold water, and dry in the air outside.
• onething Try a solar iced-tea. Take a 1/2 gallon pitcher or jar and fill it with water and 6 tea bags. Put it in a sunny spot for several hours and let the sun do its thing. Add ice and a slice of lemon and sit back and think about how much energy you saved by not boiling water.
• onething buy locally-grown food if possible. It saves a truckload of transportation fuel.
• onething go outside and play more. It uses less energy than tv and video games. Install a pool timer to run your pool pump or heater only when you need to.
• onething keeping your tires properly inflated saves lots of gas.
• onething Turn off a light when the day is bright.
  

A couple more suggestions:

• Recycle. Anything and everything. Cans, bottles, paper products, clothes and shoes (donate or resell)...
• Ride the bus, a bike or walk whenever and wherever you can...
• Turn the air conditioner up in the summer, and the heating down in the winter....
• Unplug cell phone chargers and other items when not in use...
• Pick up trash when you come across it instead of walking by.
  
• Use the re-useable canvas bags at the grocery store instead of paper or plastic. They're surprisingly sturdy, and can carry just as much as the plastic ones, and they look good! Green goes with everything!!

One wise lady once said to me "We can make a difference if we try".

For more information, and to submit your own OneThing ideas please visit:
http://www.onethingct.com/

Harry Potter Events and Parties in Connecticut

We are counting down the days until Harry James Potter's date with destiny, which also happens to be July 21st, the publication date of the seventh, and final blockbuster novel from author J.K. Rowling. So far we have read 3341 pages of Harry's story, and a mere 784 pages of a marathon overnight reading session remain.

I have been pouring over Mary Grand-Pre's illustrations searching for clues... Neglecting that growing pile of other great books I promised myself I'd read, I am returning to book six, Half-Blood Prince so that I am caught up in time to catch the Knight Bus to the Mid-night opening at my local Borders. So many questions to be answered. Is professor Snape good or evil? Who will meet their end in the final chapters? Will Harry find the Horcrux in time? Who is the mysterious R.A.B.? Will Hermoine be a bridesmaid at Bill and Fleur's wedding?

Ok, so Bill & Fleur are a little lower on the agenda for me, but like you, I am excited about the final book, and trying to find ways to occupy myself until the big date. So, below are a few of my suggestions, along with the list of Connecticut Harry Potter Parties and events that are happening at Midnight on July 21st.

Quiz Time
While you're waiting take the Ultimate Deathly Hallows Prediction Exam at the Leaky Cauldron, while you're there listen to the Harry Potter Podcast, listen to the audio on your PC, or download it to your MP3 Player. Want to brush up on your Harry Potter 101 or really test your knowledge? Take the Say What Quiz and impress all your friends.


Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Have fun watching previous four Potter movies while you wait.... or go see OOTP, released on July 11th, at a theater near you and join Dumbledore's Army. Get your tickets here.



Harry Potter Events and Parties in Connecticut

The wait is almost over! Booksellers such as Borders, Barnes & Noble, Kmart and a few other independent retailers are staging parties and midnight openings to celebrate the release of Book 7.

I've tried to make this list as comprehensive as possible. If you know of any events that are not on this list, please send me an email.

From outside Connecticut? Find local Harry Potter events here: http://www.scholastic.com/


Borders Presents the Grand Hallows Ball
An evening of wizardly activities, fantastical games, and stupendous giveaways! Get your copy at the stroke of midnight. Below is the list of Borders, Borders Express and Waldenbooks in Connecticut participating in this event on July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am or until the last guest receives their copy.


Danbury
Borders, 110 Federal Road, Danbury, CT 06811
Phone: (203) 798-1100
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Farmington
Borders, 1600 South East Road, Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: (860) 674-8110
Bookclub Discussion of Book Six and the Great Snape Debate. July 13, 7:00 pm
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Fairfield
Borders, 1499 Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824
Phone: (203) 256-1619
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Farmington - Westfarms Mall
Borders Express, 433 Westfarms Mall, Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: (860) 521-6579
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Greenwich
Borders Express, 173 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, CT 06830
Phone: (203) 869-6342
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Manchester
Borders, 59 Pavilions Drive, Manchester, CT 06040
Phone: (860) 649-1433
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Meriden
Borders, 470 Lewis Ave., Meriden, CT 06451
Phone: (203) 237-5510
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Milford
Borders, 1201 Boston Post Rd., Milford, CT 06460
Phone: (203) 878-3333
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Simsbury
Borders, 500 Bushy Hill Rd., Simsbury, CT 06070
Phone: (860) 651-7305
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Southbury
Waldenbooks, New Haven Avenue, Southbury, CT 06488
Phone: (203) 264-2324
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Stamford
Borders, 1041 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT 06905
Phone: (203) 968-9700
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Trumbull
Waldenbooks, Main Street, Trumbull, CT 06611
Phone: (203) 374-1182
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Waterbury
Waldenbooks, 495 Union Street, Waterbury, CT 06721
Phone: (203) 597-0125
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Waterford
Borders, 915 Hartford Turnpike, Waterford, CT 06385
Phone: (860) 442-3366
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Waterford - Crystal Mall
Borders Express, 850 Hartford Turnpike, Waterford, CT 06385
Phone: (860) 442-8684
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Westbrook
Borders Outlet, 314 Flat Rock Place, Westbrook, CT 06498
Phone: (860) 399-0019
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Willimantic - Eastbrook Mall
Borders Express, 95 Storrs Rd., Willimantic, CT 06226
Phone: (860) 456-3168
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Wilton
Borders, 14 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897
Phone: (203) 834-0600
Grand Hallows Ball, Friday, July 20, 2007, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am



Barnes & Noble Present Midnight Magic Parties
Parties may include a costume contest, trivia scavenger hunt, magic potion demonstration, amulet and magical creature making, photo opportunities with your favorite characters, and much more.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Enfield
Enfield Commons, 25 Hazard Ave, Enfield, CT 06082
Phone: (860) 745-7315
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 7:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Farmington
1599 South East Road, Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: (860) 678-9494
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 7:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Glastonbury
175 Glastonbury Blvd., Glastonbury, CT 06033
Phone: (860) 657-1636
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 7:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Milford
1375 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT 06460
Phone: (203) 301-0371
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 7:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers North Haven
North Haven Crossing, 470 Universal Drive North, North Haven, CT 06473
Phone: (203) 234-1805
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 7:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Waterbury
Brass Mill Commons, 235 Union Street, Waterbury, CT 06706
Phone: (203) 759-7125
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 7:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Canton
The Shoppes at Farmington Valley, 110 Albany Tpk #305,
Canton, CT 06019
Phone: (860) 693-0115
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 8:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Buckland Hills Mall
270 Buckland Hills Dr. Suite 1024, Manchester, CT 06040
Phone: (860) 648-1008
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 8:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Orange Town Center
109 Boston Post Rd, Orange, CT 06477
Phone: (860) 799-1266
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 8:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Norwalk
360 Connecticut Ave, Norwalk, CT 06854
Phone: (203) 866-2213
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 8:30 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Danbury Square
Danbury Square, 15 Backus Ave, Danbury, CT 06810
Phone: (203) 730-2733
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Barnes & Noble Booksellers Westport
Post Plaza Shopping Center, 1076 Post Road East, Westport, CT 06880
Phone: (203) 221-7955
Midnight Magic Party, Friday, July 20, at 10:00 pm - 1:00 am


Stew Leonards

Muggles and wizards of all ages are invited to Stew Leonard’s for the midnight release of the new Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Enjoy a costume contest, crafts, treats and a first chapter book reading. 40% off the book, and a free soda with purchase.
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

Stew Leonards Norwalk, 100 Westport Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851
Phone: (203) 847-7214

Stew Leonards Danbury, 99 Federal Road, Danbury, CT 06811
Phone: (203) 790-8030

Stew Leonards Newington, 3475 Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT 06111
Phone: (860) 760-8100
www.stewleonards.com


Kmart stores with with Midnight Openings

Cromwell Kmart,
45 Shunpike Road, Cromwell, CT 06416
Phone: (860) 635-0400
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

Milford Kmart,
589 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford, CT 06460
Phone: (203) 877-6036
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

Southbury Kmart,
100 Main Street North, Southbury, CT 06488
Phone: (203) 264-7227
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

Torrington Kmart,
681 Main Street, Torrington, CT 06790
Phone: (860) 489-1332
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

Vernon Kmart,
295 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon, CT 06066
Phone: (860) 872-8391
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

Waterbury Kmart,
881 Wolcott Street, Waterbury, CT 06705
Phone (203) 753-2191
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

Watertown Kmart,
595 Straits Turnpike, Watertown, CT 06795
Phone: (860) 274-9204
Friday, July 20, 10:00 pm - 1:00 am



Independent Booksellers with Midnight Openings

The Book Vault Deathly Hallows Release Party
As with the last Harry Potter book, we are planning a midnight release party, which will begin the night of Friday, July 20th. As before, your ticket into our gala party is the purchase of the book at The Book Vault. Books will be handed out, beginning at midnight, in the order in which they were reserved.
Friday, July 20, 10 pm - 1 am
The Book Vault, 9 North Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492
Phone: (203) 269-7323
www.thebookvault.net/events.html

Just Books Harry Potter Party
Must pre-purchase book to attend event. Fun, games, wand making, movie warching, pumpkin juice, butter beer and other fun Potter stuff.
Just Books, 28 Arcadia Road, Old Greenwich, CT 06870
Phone: (203) 637-0707
Friday, July 20, at 8:00 pm - 12:00 am

The Hickory Stick Bookshop
This is definitely the not to be missed event for Potter fans of all ages. Guess how many disgusting jelly beans are in the jar. How many questions will you be able to answer in the Sorting Hat Trivia Game? Enter our raffle for all kinds of prizes. You have heard all the theories others have suggested, but what do you think will happen in #7? Will we see Dumbledore again? Whose side is Snape on anyway? Can Voldemort be defeated and how? Who will live, who will die? Who will end up with whom? Will Hogwarts reopen? Where are the Horcruxes? Be here to wonder and wait with us.
Friday, July 20, 10:30 pm
The Hickory Stick Bookshop, 2 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot, CT 06794
Phone: (860) 868-0525
www.hickorystickbookshop.com

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Release Party!
The Book Barn is hosting a midnight party for the final installment of the Harry Potter chronicles. A full evening of Harry Potter fun and entertainment! Books will be distributed at 12:01 AM on July 21. Pre-registration is necessary and dressing up is strongly encouraged.
Friday, July 20, 10:30 pm
The Book Barn, 41 West Main St., Niantic, CT 06357
Phone: (860) 739-5715
www.bookbarnniantic.com

Linda's Story Time,
447 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT 06615
Phone: (203) 459-1579
Friday, July 20, 12:00 pm - 1:00 am

Bank Square Books,
53 West Main Street, Mystic, CT 06355
Phone: (860) 536-3795
Friday, July 20, 12:00 pm - 1:00 am

The Yale Bookstore,
77 Broadway, New Haven, CT 06511
Phone: (203) 777-8440
Friday, July 20, 12:00 pm - 1:00 am

Bank St. Book Nook,
50 Bank Street, New Milford, CT 06776
Phone: (860) 354-3865
Friday, July 20, 11:59 pm until the last guest leaves.

Books on the Common,
Copps Hill Common, 109 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877
Phone: (203) 431-9100
Friday, July 20, 12:00 pm - 12:00 am

RJ JULIA HARRY POTTER LAUNCH PARTY
Harry Potter fans of all ages -- this is it! The long-awaited final book in the series, and the final fabulous launch party at R.J. Julia.
Friday July 20, 10:00 pm
RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 06443
(203) 245-3959
www.rjjulia.com

UConn Co-op Bookstore
Live owls, live music, costume contest, a fortune teller, jugglers, and many surprises. The purchase of a book etitles you and your family to attend. Sign up now. Pre-orders are 30% Off.
Friday, July 20, 10 pm - 1 am
UConn Co-op Bookstore,
2075 Hillside Road, Unit 1019, Storrs, Connecticut 06269
Phone: (860) 486-5027
www.bookstore.uconn.edu



LIBRARY EVENTS

West Hartford Public Library
The West Hartford Public Library is offering a variety of programs this month to celebrate the release of the final Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Sunday July 15, 2:00 pm "Magic for Muggles"
Monday July 16, 7:15 pm "Care of Magical Creatures: Iguanas"
Wednesday July 18, 7:00 pm "Legilimency Lessons! "
Thursday July 19, 3:00 pm @ Children's Museum "Dumbledore's Astronomy"
Friday July 20, 8:00 pm @ Borders Books, Farmington - "Wizard's Ball"
Faxon Branch of Library, 1073 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06110
Register by calling: (860) 561-8203
www.westhartfordlibrary.org


Harry Potter Day at the New Milford Public Library
Games, crafts and refreshments. Registration required. Call 860-355-1191 ext. 204 for more information.
Wednesday July 18, 1:30 pm
Memorial Hall for grades third grade and up.
24 Main St New Milford, CT 06776
Phone: (860) 355-1191
www.biblio.org/newmilford


Movie & Midnight Release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows at Danbury Library
Watch Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azakaban and be one of the 10 lucky winners to receive a free copy of the new book! If not, you might be one of the luck winners to receive the opportunity to check out one of the 25 books reserved just for those attending this program.
Friday, July 20 -- 9:30 pm - Midnight
Harry Potter Trivia Challenge. Compete in one of the four houses and test your knowledge of the seven books. Questions will range from easy to hard and the house who gets the most correct answers will get a prize. No one really loses as we will have fun, snacks and prizes. Dress as your favorite character and test your knowledge.
Thursday, July 26 from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm.
Danbury Library 170 Main Street Danbury, CT 06810
Phone: (203) 797-4505
www.danburylibrary.org


Again, please let me remind you, I've tried to make this list as comprehensive and accurate as possible. If you know of any events that are not on this list, but should be, please send me an email.

Linzi
Managing Editor / Muggle
www.ThisIsCT.net
connected to connecticut.

things to do. web. blog. events.

Ice Cream Tour of Connecticut

There's truly nothing like a delicious scoop of ice cream on a hot summers day. My sister-in-law and her family roamed America's third smallest state in search of yumminess last summer... and this is what they found, and how they rated...



So, What's with all the Spoons?

The Ratings




Don't bother...




Getting better... but factor in the cost of gas before you go.




That's what I'm talkin' about!


If this establishment were ever taken over by a foreign power and the invaders erected a 20-foot electrified barbed-wire fence AND posted sharp-shooters all around the perimeter AND dug a 30 foot moat AND stocked it with piranha... I would die trying to liberate it.


Hartford County


Tulmeadow Farms
255 Farms Village Road, West Simsbury, Connecticut
Phone: (860) 658-1430
Map and Directions
Sweet nectar of life... man this is good stuff.
I love the SWEET CREAM flavor the best, but be advised that it's not sold by the scoop, you have to go into the attached store and buy it by the pint or the quart. If you just want what's at the stand... go for the PUMPKIN. Remember though, this is a working farm so interesting smells abound. Be prepared to jump in your car and leave after you score your ice cream.


Fairfield County

Cafe Cogolulu
991 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897

Phone: (203) 544-6000

Map and Directions
I gelato-ed my way through 5 different cities in Italy, and this place beats 3 of them. WHIPPED CREAM... need I say more? If it's available, try the GRAPE. It doesn't have that artificial flavor more accurately described as PURPLE. It looks and tastes like, well, grapes!



Dr. Mike's Ice Cream Shop

158 Greenwood Ave, Bethel, CT

Phone: (203) 792-4388
Map and Directions

If you accidently drive past Dr. Mike's, don't worry about it... but make sure to turn around and go back. Tucked in the back of a plaza, this tiny place serves up some of the best ice cream. Try the FRENCH SILK.


Timothy's Ice Cream

2974 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, CT

(203) 366-7496
Map and Directions

The ice cream was good... but not great. I was more impressed with their waffle cones, made right behind the counter.



Sweet Ashley's

248 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06855

Phone: (203) 866-7740
Map and Directions

The best CAKE BATTER ice cream I've ever had... and believe me, my experiments in this area have been thorough! Just a great all-around ice cream place.



New Haven County


Big Dipper Ice Cream & Yogurt Parlour

91 Waterbury Road, Prospect, CT 06712

Phone: (203) 758-3200
Map and Directions

The only place I've ever been to that sells the ice cream by weight, which is great when you have small children. Go for the TOASTED ALMOND if you get the chance.



Rich Farm Ice Cream Shop

691 Oxford Rd, Oxford, CT

Phone: (203) 881-1040
Map and Directions
Livestock and ice cream... what a combination! Throw the kids into the car, bring 'em here, then let 'em run wild. If you venture in on a day when MANNY'S BANANIE is available, go for it. The kids will love COOKIE MONSTER.



Wentworth Homemade Ice Cream

3697 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT

Phone: (203) 281-7429
Map and Directions

Warm peanut butter available... how dreamy. Go in, grab yourself a waffle cone full of S'MORES, then cut your guilt in half by walking it off at the Sleeping Giant State Park right down the street.




New London County

Hall Mark Drive In

113 Shore Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

Phone: (860) 434-1998
Map and Directions

Tasty flavors like GINGERBREAD and RASPBERRY OREO COOKIE await you at this long shack near the beach. Be advised... this place is packed during the summer months.


Litchfield County, Tolland County, Windham, and Middlesex Counties

Nothing to report from these necks of the woods... check back later. Do you have anything to add? Have you found a fabulous scoop and want to share the secret? Email me at linzi at thisisct dot net.

See Related posts about Ice Cream in Connecticut.

Connecticut Weather

The Connecticut Weather Center
Radar loops, current conditions, forecasts, cancellations and historical weather data.

AccuWeather.com - Hartford, CT
Extended weather forecasts from AccuWeather.com. View a 15 day weather forecast for the Hartford area.

DEP: Connecticut's Weather Fun Facts
Connecticut's Weather Fun Facts Abstract: Description: Connecticut's Weather Fun Facts By Month.

Intellicast's 10 Day Forecast for Hartford
The Authority in Expert Weather. 10 Day Forecast for Hartford. Available pages include national and local weather maps, text and graphical forecasts, tropical storm and hurricane information and forecasts, current weather, text information, NWS watches and warnings for 38000+ worldwide locations.

Connecticut Ski Resorts By Weather Underground:
Mohawk Mountain
Mount Southington
Ski Sundown
Winding Trails XC
Woodbury Ski Area

West Hartford Weather Forecasts on Yahoo! Weather
Search Yahoo! Weather by zip code for your town.

Connecticut Weather - WxUSA
Weather links and detailed forecasts for Connecticut and over 1500 US cities includes weather forecast, weather radar, weather maps, current weather, severe weather info, weather cams, hurricane updates, kid's weather, local information, international weather links, news, sports, travel and ski reports.

Connecticut Weather
The latest weather from courant.com and The Hartford Courant

Connecticut Weather - Allergy Alerts

FOX 61 WEATHER WATCH
The Hartford Courant weather columns from John Carroll and Michael Friedmann from Fox 61.

Pollen.com - Connecticut Pollen reports and forecasts
Pollen.com - current, local and accurate allergy reports and forecasts for every ZIP code in the Continental United States.

Connecticut : Weather Underground

Weather | Fox 61 WTIC-TV Connecticut

Hartford Weather, National and Local Forecasts, Weather Reports, Radar and Maps – Weatherplus
Hartford weather, National weather forecast, weather reports, radar and maps are available online. Find local weather forecast, tools and information on our meteorologists on the official NBC Weather Plus website.

WFSB Early Warning Weather
Channel 3 Early Warning Weather - Pinpoint Doppler, Connecticut weather forecasts, maps, video, temperatures.

WFSB.com - Channel 3 Live Doppler Radar

WTNH.com - Connecticut News and Weather

WTNH.com - Weather Bug
Live weather data from around CT.

WTNH.com - Wind Chill Calculator

Jobs In Connecticut

Connecticut Has Jobs.com
Lists jobs in Connecticut by Employer, by career field. Also lists career fairs, and internships in Connecticut.

CT Jobs.com
Search by career field, with job search resources, company profiles and more.

News Times CT Job Finder.com
Greater Danbury area resource. Post your resume, search by category, receive email alerts.

Job CT.com
Search local jobs, and post your resume with a photo, and Resume Blast your resume to thousands of recruiters in your area.

Jobs In CT.com
Job seeker resources, category search, and also lists seasonal jobs in Connecticut.

Hartford County Jobs
Fairfield County Jobs
New Haven County Jobs
New London County Jobs
Search jobs by town and County in Connecticut by category or keyword.

CareerBuilder.com From the Hartford Courant.
Search jobs, post resume, career advice and more.

Work Connecticut.com
Register with site, post your resume, and search Connecticut jobs.

Connecticut State Jobs
State of Connecticut Department of Administrative Services state

Connecticut Job Bank
Part of America's Job Bank. Search by zip code, military, title and keyword.

Craigslist | Hartford | Eastern CT | New Haven | North West CT | Fairfield County

Careers In Connecticut
Search for jobs in Connecticut by category, location or keyword.

Greater Hartford Arts Council Jobs Listings

Net Temps
Find a temporary or contract job in CT by category.

Jobster.com
Search by location in Connecticut. Interestingly, it also has comments from people talking about their experiences with the company who posted the listing.


Other sites:

CT DOL Job Fairs Listings
Career fairs around Connecticut.

CT Occupational Employment and Wages
Compare your salary with others in CT.

AmericanCompanies.com
Connecticut page lists information about the state's major employers.

Yahoo! HotJobs.com

Monster.com


Got a tip for us? Submit a new link to me here.

Connecticut Farmer's Markets

Updated June 2007.

From the www. CT.gov website:

there are 87 farmers' markets scattered throughout the state of Connecticut. The demand for farmers' markets is increasing, and each year there are a number of requests to establish new ones. The markets provide a benefit for farmers and consumers alike. They provide an opportunity for farmers to sell their crops, and they provide a convenient one stop shopping facility for consumers to purchase fresh, high-quality produce and other farm specialty items.

The farmers markets are affiliated with a program to provide seniors (Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program) and women with children who are nutritionally at risk (The Women, Infants, and Children Farmers' Market Nutrition Program) with nutritious fruits and vegetables and to expand local market for Connecticut Grown products. The program is authorized by Public Act 94-187. The seniors program is a state-private partnership, and the women and infants' program is authorized and co-funded by Congress. Program participants number about 48,000 WIC clients and 15,000 Senior recipients and receive $15 worth of vouchers that can be used at designated farmers' markets for the purchase of Connecticut grown fresh fruits and vegetables. Participating farmers are reimbursed for the face value of the vouchers at any state financial institution.

If you would like more information on market locations, crop availability or if you are a farmer and would like to participate in the farmers' markets call Rick Macsuga, Connecticut Department of Agriculture at (860) 713-2544.

Below is a by county listings of 2007 Season Farmer's Markets In Connecticut.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY FARMER'S MARKETS

BETHEL FARMERS' MARKET

Rte 6, Bethel & Fairfield County Extension Service Building

67 Stony Hill Road Opposite Stony Hill Inn

Saturdays 9am - 1pm

July 7 thru October 27

WIC CERTIFIED

BRIDGEPORT FARMERS' MARKET I

McLevy Green

Intersection, Bank and Main Streets

Fridays 9am - 2pm

July 20 thru October 26

WIC CERTIFIED

EBT-Food Stamp Certified

BRIDGEPORT FARMERS' MARKET II

United Congregational Church

877 Park Avenue

Thursdays 2pm - 6pm

July 19 thru October 25

WIC CERTIFIED

EBT-Food Stamp Certified

DANBURY CITY CENTER FARMERS' MARKET

Kennedy Park

Main Street & Kennedy

Fridays 11am - 4pm

July 13 thru October

WIC CERTIFIED

DARIEN FARMERS' MARKET

Mechanic Street

Behind Fire House

Wednesdays 11am - 6pm

June 13 thru Mid December

FAIRFIELD FARMERS' MARKET

Greenfield Hills

1950 Bronson Road

Saturdays 1pm - 4pm

June 2 thru October 22

GEORGETOWN FARMERS' MARKET

Intersection of Main Street & Georgetown & Route 57

Sundays 10am - 2pm

June 10 thru October

GREENWICH FARMERS' MARKET

Commuter Parking Lot

Arch and Horseneck Streets

Saturdays 9:30am - 1pm

May 19 thru November 17

WIC CERTIFIED

NEW CANAAN FARMERS' MARKET

Old Center School Parking Lot

South Avenue and Maple Street

Saturdays 10am - 2pm

June 9 thru November 25

WIC CERTIFIED

NORWALK FARMERS' MARKET

At The Maritime Center

North Water Street Parking Lot

Wednesdays 12 Noon - 6pm

July 18 thru October 24

WIC CERTIFIED

SANDY HOOK ORGANIC FARMERS' MARKET

Sandy Hook Center

5 Washington Avenue

Tuesdays 2pm - 6pm

June 19 thru October 9

WIC CERTIFIED

SANDY HOOK VILLAGE FARMERS' MARKET