Memorial Day Weekend a busy one for State Police and local firefighters

At the Lebanon, CT 2012 Memorial Day Parade - the World War II, Korea and Vietnam Veterans float. In the center waving to the crowd is 93-year-old Army Veteran Joseph Brissan from Lebanon. Photo by Al Malpa

The 2012 Memorial Day weekend was a busy one for Connecticut State Police, but the holiday was relatively quiet for local law enforcement agencies.

State police reported 279 accidents from midnight Friday, May 25 through midnight Monday, May 28, that resulted in 57 injuries and one fatality.

These numbers are up from the 2011 holiday weekend, when 260 accidents were reported, including 18 involving injuries and four fatalities.

“We were very active,” State Police spokesman Lt. J. Paul Vance said.

It was also a busy weekend for firefighters throughout the state. In the Windham area, local departments responded to two fires in Lebanon.

The American Red Cross responded to seven fires in the state over the weekend – and provided assistance to 57 people – including one that destroyed the 200-year-old Bevin Brothers bell factory, the last of its kind, in East Hampton, CT. In that instance, the Red Cross set up a temporary shelter when residents near the factory buildings were evacuated because of concern about toxic chemicals in the air.

Connecticut State Troopers made 77 drunken­-driving arrests this year, seven more than last year.

Offering a salute for fallen veterans are from right to left, Dana Hallenbeck, Joe Eaton, Bob LaMarche, Yvon Turgeon, Jim Sposito and Lem Theroux of the American Legion Post 52 in Coventry, CT. Members of the American Legion, Knights of Columbus, Cub Scouts Pack 57 and Boy Scout Troop 65, as well as the public, paid tribute at the 2012 Memorial Day ceremonies in Coventry, CT. Photo by Marie Brennan

There were 816 seatbelt violations and 1,797 speeding citations.

Willimantic Police Lt. Jack Reed said it was a “very quiet weekend” for his department.

Reed said his department responded to four accidents, two Friday and two Monday, none of which involved injuries.

This morning, he said that no individuals were arrested for driving while intoxicated.

Reed also said there were also no cell-phone violations or speeding tickets recorded, though some might be included in the system later in the day, he said.

The Memorial Day parade kept Willimantic officers busy.

Participants left from Memorial Park on Main Street and marched to the American Legion on Bricktop Road. Main Street was closed for the festivities, as it is every year.

Willimantic officers directed traffic and public works employees set up barriers around the parade route.

“There was a pretty good turn­out,” said Reed.

Coventry Police Chief Mark Palmer said traffic enforcement went smoothly over the weekend.

“It was relatively quiet,” Palmer said.

The department did not have any DWI checkpoints set up, but did conduct roving patrols.

Palmer said there were two accidents, both of which were very “minor” and did not involve injuries.

Coventry police made 26 motor vehicle stops, and issued 11 citations and 13 warnings.

The citations included three speeding citations, one for a cell­phone violation, and two traffic sign violations.

“It’s pretty typical,” Palmer said, comparing this year’s statistics from those for past Memorial Day weekends.

Police shut down roads surrounding the town parade, which kicked off at G. H. Robertson Intermediate School on Cross Street.

More people attended the town parade than in previous years, but traffic was under control, said Palmer. “People were very patient,” he said.

Posted May 29, 2012 as edited by HTNP.com Editor Brenda Sullivan

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News. https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews and find us on Twitter at HTNP News (@HTNPNews )

Enjoy Connecticut’s many beautiful state parks at a discount

Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, CT offers views of Long Island Sound, nature trails, picnic tables, beautiful gardens and a tour of the historic mansion (for an additional fee).

The State offers a number of seasonal passes to Connecticut’s many and varied state parks for reasonable prices.

With the cost of gas up one day and down the next – usually up once the summer vacation season rolls around – a day at a state park can be an affordable day trip.

Some parks, such as Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, offer ocean views and many offer picnic and cookout sites.

Most have hiking trails that vary from relatively flat and easy, to steep and challenging, often leading to a summit with an inspiring view.

Some parks are great for bird-watching, and others allow fishing.

Some parks, such as Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, also offer tours of historic and unusual estates.

Before bringing your four-legged family member along, check that a particular park allows dogs. If it does, your dog must be on a leash and you should bring drinking water and the necessary equipment for cleaning up after your dog.

Here is some information about discounted passes.

Season passes

For the frequent park visitor, Connecticut offers a season pass (a windshield sticker) that allows unlimited vehicle access to any state park or recreation area that has a parking fee, for no extra charge.

Season passes are valid for one vehicle per pass (non-transferable to any other vehicle) for an entire calendar year.

Season passes are not valid for admission to Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Park Exhibit Centers or tours of Gillette Castle (but you can visit the grounds), camping or special events with charges; if an area is closed to the public for any reason; for commercial use or on a commercial vehicle; if not adhered to the windshield (motorcycle operators may handhold the pass) of a registered vehicle.

A separate Heritage Passport will allow for unlimited access to Dinosaur, Fort Trumbull and Gillette Castle State Parks until the end of the calendar year. The cost is $67 and is good for a family (2 adults and up to 4 children). You can buy your Heritage Passport at any one of the three parks.

A season pass for access to all other parks is $67 for Connecticut residents and $112 for Out-of State residents and can be paid for online at the DEEP Store (The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection) http://www.ctdeepstore.com, as well as by mail or in person.

By mail, send a check for the fee, plus $2.50 for shipping and handling, made out to Treasurer, State of Connecticut to: DEEP Store, 79 Elm St., Hartford, CT 06106-5127

Your pass will be sent via first class mail with delivery confirmation to the address provided in your request.

Free lifetime passes

Called the Charter Oak Pass, this one provides access to all Connecticut state parks and forests and is available free to Connecticut residents age 65 or older.

It is accepted at all day-use areas where a parking fee applies and allows free access for the entering vehicle and passengers. And the pass holder does not have to be the vehicle driver.

It also allows free admission for the Charter Oak pass holder when visiting Gillette Castle, Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Parks, or fishing at the Quinebaug Valley Hatchery. Accompanying visitors, however, will be required to pay the appropriate fee.

Please note that each pass is issued to a specific person and can only be used when presented by that individual. Also, they are not valid for camping or special events that have separate admission charges, and may not be used for commercial purposes.

For a list of offices where you can buy your Charter Oak Pass in person (please bring proof of age and Connecticut residency), click this link and scroll half-way down the page.

Another free, lifetime pass is available for disabled veterans.

The Disabled Veteran Pass provides access to Connecticut state parks and forests and is available free to Connecticut residents who have a service-connected disability.

It allows free access for the entering vehicle and all passengers. Again, the pass holder does not have to be the driver.

This pass is not valid for camping or special events that have separate admission charges and may not be used for commercial purposes.

However, this pass can be used for free admission to Gillette Castle, Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Parks, or fishing at the Quinebaug Valley Hatchery. Accompanying visitors will be required to pay the appropriate fee.

You will need to show (or mail a copy of) your current Connecticut drivers license or other legal proof of residency, as well as a copy of your VA card or VA Benefits Letter indicating a service-connected disability. Mail to: DEEP Disabled Veteran Pass, State Parks Division, 79 Elm St., Hartford, CT 06106-5127. Questions? Call 860-424-3200 state office hours.

Letterboxing

And did you know that many state forests are included in letterboxing activities? Letterboxing is something like a treasure hunt in which boxes containing a log book and rubber stamp are hidden in the parks. Maps are created and the boxes hidden by participants, and clues to finding the boxes are posted on the Web.

You can learn more about letterboxing in this area at this site http://letterboxing.org/faq/faq.html

And this link will take you to a map of Connecticut counties and links to the letterbox maps for those areas.

And here is a link to Connecticut state forests with letterboxing trails and their clues.

More info

For descriptions of the state parks and the facilities they offer, click on this link http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325086&depNav_GID=1650

For more information about passes, click on this link http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325090&depNav_GID=1650

Also note that from time-to-time, the governor has declared certain dates to be admission-free at state parks and forests. Watch for those announcements here.

Posted May 27, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News. https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews and find us on Twitter at HTNP News (@HTNPNews )

2012 Memorial Day ceremonies and parades in our area

Navy veterans and Pearl Harbor survivors John Busma, left, a machinist's mate 1st class aboard the repair ship USS Medusa (AR 1), and Richard Cramer, a signalman 1st class aboard USS Pennsylvania (BB 38) on Dec. 7, 1941, listen to the program during 5th annual Pearl Harbor Commemorative Celebration, Dec. 7, 2011 at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, Detachment Norco, home of Naval Surface Warfare Center, Corona Division. The theme of the event was Keeping Traditions Alive, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and 70 years of Navy presence in Riverside County, first as a naval hospital serving wounded from Pearl Harbor and currently as the Navy's independent assessment agent and one of its newest federal labs. (U.S. Navy photo by Greg Vojtko/Released)

Here are some of the 2012 Memorial Day activities slated for the HTNP.com readership area this weekend.

Sunday, May 27

SCOTLAND – The Memorial Day Parade kicks off at noon, and follows Route 97 from the town green to the Scotland Cemetery, where a ceremony will take place.

Monday, May 28

ASHFORD – The Memorial Day parade will begin at 11 a.m. at the firehouse on Route 89. Those marching in the parade are asked to meet at the fire station between 10 and 10:15 a.m. The parade will end at Pompey Hollow Park, where a service will be held.

COLUMBIA – Veterans will be honored during a Memorial Day ceremony at the town green, across from Columbia Town Hall on Route 66, beginning at 9 a.m.

During the ceremony, First Selectwoman Carmen Vance will make remarks and there will be a moment of silence for deceased veterans. Taps will be played and at the end of the ceremony, Vance will read a poem.

COVENTRY – The town’s Memorial Day parade starts at 10 a.m., beginning at the G.H. Robertson School on Cross Street, off of Route 31 (Main Street).

The parade will proceed to the Veteran’s Green for a brief service and then reform to continue down Lake Street to Main Street. The parade will end at Bradbury Lane.

HAMPTON – Memorial Day remembrances will take place throughout town. From 7 to 9 a.m., a Memorial Day breakfast will be served at the Hampton Congregational Church. At 9 a.m., the Memorial Day Parade starts at Route 97, from the Fletcher Memorial Library to the Hampton Community Center.

Hampton Town Hall will then host several Memorial Day remembrances and speeches starting at 10 a.m.

At noon, a ceremony for the Navy will take place at Little River on Hammond Hill Road.

And a chicken BBQ will be served at the Hampton Community Center from 11:20 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The day’s events include a 12:30 p.m. concert at the community center by the Juniper Hill Jumpers, a Dixieland jazz band.

HEBRON – The Memorial Day Parade kicks off at 10 a. m., follows Wall Street (Route 316) at RHAM High School. The parade will be followed by the dedication of a Civilian Aircraft Observation Post and World War II Memorial at the Hebron Town Office building. (See separate story in Hebron Today)

MANSFIELD (info added) – Memorial Day Parade starts at 9 a.m., from the intersection of Route 195 (Storrs Road) and Bassetts Bridge Road in Mansfield Center. Marchers will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Bassetts Bridge Road. The parade will progress north on Route 195 and down Cemetery Road to the new Mansfield Center cemetery.

All veterans and active duty personnel are invited to march at the head of the parade.

There will be a memorial ceremony at the cemetery. Councilor Christopher Paulhus will welcome all, Town Manager Matthew Hart will give the address, and Pastor Joe Nollet will represent the Hope Lutheran Church and give the invocation and benediction. Music will be provided by the Mansfield Middle School Band and the E.O. Smith Regional High School Band. Three volleys will be fired and taps sounded in honors for the fallen. The units will then return to Bassetts Bridge Road.

In the event of heavy rain, the ceremony will be held in the Mansfield Middle School gymnasium, the school is located at 205 Spring Hill Road, off of Route 195. Listen for the announcement at 7:30 a.m. on WILI of the ceremony moves indoors.

In the event of heavy rain, the ceremony will be held in the Mansfield Middle School gymnasium, the school is located at 205 Spring Hill Road, off of Route 195.

WINDHAM/ WILLIMANTIC – The Windham/Willimantic Memorial Day pilgrimage begins at 7 a.m. at the VFW on 1415 Main St. to begin a visit to each of the town’s cemeteries and memorials.

These include: New Willimantic Cemetery, Old Willimantic Cemetery, South Windham Memorial, Windham Center Cemetery, Windham Center Memorials, North Windham Cemetery, St. Joseph Cemetery, Russian Orthodox Cemetery and Windham Veteran’s Greenway.

At 9 a.m. coffee and doughnuts will be served at the VFW. And at 11 a.m., an observance will take place at Memorial Park on Main Street.

Following, the Memorial Day parade will form and march to the American Legion Hall on Brick Top Road.

Posted May 27, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News at https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews and find us on Twitter at HTNP News (@HTNPNews )

Fiber arts, tea party among local Sunday events

The Friends of the Prudence Crandall Museum Inc., will present the annual Spring Tea Luncheon from 1 to 3 p.m. at Carter House, next to the Prudence Crandall Museum in Canterbury.

Here are just a few of the fun and interesting events, many of them free, happening in our area today, Sunday, May 20.

FIBER ARTS FESTIVAL — COVENTRY

A Stitch in Time Fiber Arts Festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Expected are spinners, knitters, weavers, quilters and other artists at the Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry. Donations accepted. Free tour of the homestead for CT Landmarks members. Members-to-be can take a guided tour for just $5. Info: (860) 742-6917.

THIRD ANNUAL CRUISE DAY

The Ashford Senior Center presents the third annual Cruise Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 25 Tremko Lane, Ashford. Info: (860) 487-5122.

EXHIBIT OPENING — CRANDALL MUSEUM

The Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host an exhibit opening of “Friends and Neighbors: Canterbury’s 18th and 19th Century African- American Residents” beginning at 11 a.m.

RABIES VACCINATIONS — SCOTLAND

The Town of Scotland will host its annual rabies vaccination clinic next month. The clinic will be held at the Scotland Fire Safety Complex, 47 Brook Road, from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $12 per vaccination and only cash will be accepted.

POETRY READING — CRANDALL MUSEUM

Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury Road, Canterbury, will host a poetry reading from 1 to 3 p.m. Poets Marilyn Nelson (Connecticut Poet Laureate 2001-2006) Bessy Reyna and Kate Rushin will read from the book “Miss Crandall’s School for Young Ladies and Little Misses of Color.” Program includes dance performance by Deborah Goffee, artistic director and founder of Scapegoat Garden dance theater in Hartford. Admission: $6 adults/$4 senior citizens (60 and over) and youth (6-17), ages 5 and under free. Info: (860) 546-7800.

SPRING TEA LUNCHEON — CRANDALL MUSEUM

The Friends of the Prudence Crandall Museum Inc., will present the annual Spring Tea Luncheon from 1 to 3 p.m. at Carter House, next to the Prudence Crandall Museum in Canterbury at the intersection of routes 14 and 169. Cost is $17 per person and reservations must be made due to limited seating. In addition, the fee includes entrance to the Crandall Museum. Call (860) 546-9266 now to reserve your place.

CHICKEN BARBECUE — WILLIMANTIC

The Willimantic VFW Post 1724 Ladies Auxiliary, will host a chicken barbecue from 3 to 6 p.m. at the VFW home, Main Street, Willimantic. Cost is $7/person.

WVNA MONTHLY MEETING

The Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association will conduct its monthly meeting at 3:30 p.m. at its meeting house at 869 Main St., Willimantic. Potluck dinner to follow at 201 Lewiston Ave., Willimantic.

WINE AND BEER FESTIVAL IN HAMPTON

Joshua’s Tract Conservation and Historic Trust will host a wine and beer festival at the Hampton Community Center, 178 Main St., Hampton, to raise funds for its land conservation activities from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Co-sponsored with Bombadil’s Spirit Shop, Mansfield. Cost is $35 per person for members, $40 for non-members. Advance reservations are recommended. A reservation form with online payment is available at www.joshuaslandtrust.org. Tickets will be available at the door until the event is sold out.

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News. https://www.facebook.com/HTNPnews

Spectacular solar eclipse on Sunday, but we won’t see it in Connecticut

Those ideally situated, viewing the eclipse from the center, will see this "ring of fire" on May 20, 2012 when an "annular" eclipse occurs. (Please follow safety rules when viewing an eclipse. Visit the NASA site for details.)

What’s called an “annular” eclipse of the sun will occur on Sunday, May 20 but in Connecticut it will already be evening here.

Your friends living on the western parts of the U.S. will have a chance to catch it (hopefully, observing safety precautions). The eclipse will begin at 5:24 p.m. Pacific time.

According to NASA:

On May 20-21, 2012 an annular eclipse of the Sun will be visible from within a narrow corridor along Earth’s northern Hemisphere – beginning in eastern Asia, crossing the North Pacific Ocean, and ending in the western United States. A partial eclipse will be visible from a much larger region covering East Asia, North Pacific, North America and Greenland.

However, the world of media being what it is today, we will likely be treated to photos on Facebook and on news blogs, as well images on the TV news, and on the NASA web site www.nasa.gov

You can get a “preview” by watching the NASA video at http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov or watch here:

The moon is expected to cover about 94 percent of the sun, leaving a ring of light that experts say can cause eye damage or blindness if viewed directly.

If you remember the last solar eclipse visible in this part of the world, you may recall seeing tiny slivers of moon shapes covering the ground if you were standing under a tree.

A total or “annular” eclipse happens when the Earth, moon and sun are in alignment. The last time this happened was 1994. The next one will be in May 2013 and we should be able to see it at that time. The next total eclipse will be in 2017.

Posted May 19, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

Events for Saturday May 19: Plant sales, live music, quilt show and more

On Sunday, May 20, the congregation of St. Paul's Episcopal Church and local residents take time to give back to our creator with a 9 a.m. service of song and thanksgiving. Then plant trees, retrieve trash, tour the Taylor Court Community Garden where we grow vegetables for the Covenant Soup Kitchen, take a walking tour, visit our plant sale – and have lunch at St. Paul's. For a minimum donation of $5, each person will receive a seedling tree, a recycle bag, bumper sticker, bottled water and an informational packet on the “Spring Thing.” Everyone is invited to join us for lunch.

Here are some of the fun community events taking place on Saturday, May 19. If you’d like your activity or group meeting included in the weekend listing, please send your information (see below for format) to editor@htnp.com

BIRD WATCHING

The Natchaug Ornithological Society hosts a free field trip to Boston Hollow. Because of limited parking, the group will meet at 7:30 a.m. at Ashford Elementary School on Route 89 and carpool from there. Questions? Contact, Tom Harrington at greatgrayowl@sbcglobal.net

PLANT SALE AND MORE – WILLIMANTIC

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 220 Valley Street, Willimantic hosts, “Do the Spring Thing.” For complete details, visit http://stpaulswillimantic.org Kick off is 9 a.m. on Sat, May 19 with start of annual plant sale. Sunday, May 20, the congregation of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and local residents take time to give back to our creator with a 9 a.m. service of song and thanksgiving. Then plant trees, retrieve trash, tour the Taylor Court Community Garden where we grow vegetables for the Covenant Soup Kitchen, take a walking tour, visit our plant sale – and have lunch at St. Paul’s. For a minimum donation of $5, each person will receive a seedling tree, a recycle bag, bumper sticker, bottled water and an informational packet on the “Spring Thing.” Everyone is invited to join us for lunch.

CHAPLIN PLANT SALE

Chaplin Elementary School, 240 Palmer Road, Chaplin, hosts a plant sale in the school cafeteria from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

FLEA MARKET — MANSFIELD

Southeast Elementary School, 134 Warrenville Road (Route 89), Mansfield, hosts a flea market from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

NATURE HIKE — HAMPTON

The Goodwin Forest Conservation Education Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton, leads an interpretive 3.25-mile hike to Black Spruce Pond from 9 a.m. to noon; it will feature looks at returning migratory birds, spring wildflowers and a newly regenerated hardwood forest. Info/registration: (860) 455-9534.

SWIM LESSON SIGN-UPS

Sign-ups for Red Cross swim lessons will take place at the Lebanon town pool, corner of Route 87 and 207, Lebanon, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

SPRING BAZAAR — MANSFIELD

Mansfield Senior Center, 303 Maple Road, Storrs, holds its spring bazaar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

TOWN-WIDE TAG SALE – Andover

The Town of Andover holds its annual town-wide tag sale from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m. Maps are available in the town clerk’s office or in the bulletin board in front of the town office building, 17 School Road, Andover.

ANNUAL PLANT SALE — WINDHAM

The Garden Club of Windham invites residents to its annual plant sale from 9 a.m. to noon in the cafeteria at Windham High School, 355 High St., Willimantic. Proceeds are contributed to the Windham community in support of enrichment programs, activities and public space beautification. Visit us at http://gardenclubofwindham.org

VILLAGE COFFEE — WINDHAM CENTER

St. Paul’s Church, Plains Road, Windham Center, hosts a village coffee event every other Saturday through the beginning of June from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. These coffee hours offer Windham Center residents and anyone else a place to gather, catch up on happenings in the area, discuss local issues, meet neighbors and relax over free coffee, tea and snacks.

PLANT AND BAKE SALE — SCOTLAND

The Congregational Church of Scotland hosts a plant and bake sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Scotland Green, Route 14, Scotland.

FARM DAY — SCOTLAND

Scotland Historical Society hosts Farm Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Waldo House, Waldo Road, Scotland. Many demonstrations and other events. Antique cars and farm vehicles will also be on display. Rain or shine. Admission: $5 adults; children under age 12 free. Info: (860) 456-0081and/or www.scotlandhistoricalsociety.org PLEASE, no pets.

FIBER ARTS FESTIVAL — COVENTRY

“A Stitch in Time Fiber Arts Festival” will take place Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Expected are spinners, knitters, weavers, quilters and other artists at the Nathan Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry. Donations accepted. Free tour of the homestead for CT Landmarks members. Members-to-be can take a guided tour for just $5. Info: (860) 742-6917.

SCHOOL FUN FAIR — MANSFIELD

Goodwin Elementary School, 321 Hunting Lodge Road, Mansfield, hosts a fun fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come enjoy hours of fun with something for everyone.

FAMILY STORY TIME — MANSFIELD

Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Road, Mansfield, holds a family story time at 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Info: (860) 423-2501 or visit www.mansfieldpubliclibraryct.org

HISTORIC OPEN HOUSE – SCOTLAND

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., tour guides will lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence and considered by some to be the true first American president. The Gov. Samuel Huntington Trust opens the homestead on the first and third Saturdays of each month through October and is located on Route 14 just west of the Scotland town center. Free admission, but donations appreciated. Info: Visit http://huntingtonhomestead.org or call (860) 423-1547.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT – MANSFIELD

Hospice of Eastern Connecticut holds its Saturday Bereavement Group from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 34 Ledgebrook Drive, Mansfield. This support group is appropriate for those who are grieving a year or more and is open to the community. Info: (860) 456-7288 ext. 293

‘PURAPLICIOUS’ TEA PARTY – S. WINDHAM

Guilford Smith Memorial Library, 17 Main St., South Windham, hosts a tea party at noon. Drop by for tea and wear fancy clothes. Info: (860) 423-5159.

300 YEARS OF QUILTS – COVENTRY

300 Years of Coventry Quilts exhibit will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Sponsored by the Coventry Historical Society at the Strong-Porter Museum, 2382 South St., Coventry. View nearly 100 antique and new quilts in all phases of construction along a picturesque woodland path. Info: email gdilk@aol.com or call (860) 742-9656. Donation: $5 per person.

LAMPWORK EXHIBIT — LEBANON

The Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House, 780 Trumbull Highway, Route 87, Lebanon opens for the 2012 season from noon to 4 p.m. with a reception for Lebanon artist Jaci Sinkewicz and the opening of her exhibit, “Glass and Fire: The Art of Lampworking.” Lampworking is a type of glasswork that uses a gas-fueled torch. Info: (860) 642-7987. To learn more about Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. visit http://historicbuildingsct.com/?p=642, and to learn more about his father, the Connecticut governor, visit http://www.govtrumbullhousedar.org

MEMORIAL MUSIC FEST – LEBANON

The Casey Yates Memorial Music Festival will be held at 1 p.m. at the Lebanon Fairgrounds, Mack Road, Lebanon. Admission is $10. This event will portray Yates’ love for music by providing a place for family, friends and people in the community to come together and enjoy music by several local musicians. Members of Yate’s band, “Moss.” will perform songs written and recorded by Yates that will be played live for the first time at the Memorial Music Festival. Donations/checks can be made to Casey’s Charities, 175 Sisson Road, Lebanon 06249. Casey Dane Yates, 24, of Lebanon, CT died July 5, 2011 after a tragic accident in Dallas. He was born in Willimantic, CT on July 24, 1986. Casey was a passionate and caring young man with a unique sense of humor. He loved his music and helping people. He was an accomplished scholar, earning many awards in high school and college. He graduated from Lyman Memorial H.S. in 2005 and from University of Hartford in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude in Radiology/CT. At the time of his death, he was a post- baccalaureate pre-med student at the University of Texas at Dallas.

FARMERS MARKET — STORRS

Storrs Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m. The market is located in the Mansfield Town Hall parking lot on Storrs Road (Route 195) You can find Storrs Farmers Market on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/StorrsFarmersMarket

POTLUCK AND LIVE MUSIC — WILLIMANTIC

The Country Misfits will perform at the VFW Post 1724, Main Street, Willimantic, from 4 to 8 p.m. Potluck, bring a dish to share.

HAM AND BEAN SUPPER — MANSFIELD

Echo Grange 180 holds a ham and bean supper at the Grange Hall, 483 Storrs Road (Route 195), in Mansfield Center from 5 to 7 p.m. Proceeds from the supper will be used to further community service projects. Adults are $8, seniors $7, children 4-12 are $5 and children under 4 eat for free. Takeout dinners also available.

LASAGNA DINNER — LEBANON

Goshen Congregational Church, 157 Church Road, Lebanon, hosts a lasagna dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Adults $10, seniors $9, children age 12 and under $5, children under age 5 eat for free. Proceeds to benefit GCC Scholarship Fund. Info: (860) 642-4336.

HAM AND BEAN SUPPER — HEBRON

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 30 Church St. (Route 85), Hebron, holds a ham and beans dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is $12 adults, $6 children ages 6-12, and kids 5 and younger eat for free. Info: (860) 228-3244 or visit www.StPetersHebron.com

PROGRAM AND POTLUCK — MANSFIELD

First Church of Christ in Mansfield, UCC, 549 Storrs Road hosts a Sierra Leone presentation with potluck supper at 6 p.m. Artifacts, food, history of Sierra Leone. All invited. Info: (860) 423-9008.

SPAGHETTI AND RAFFLE – WILLINGTON

Willington Nursery Cooperative hosts a spaghetti dinner at the Willington Hill Fire Department, 24 Old Farms Road, Willington at 6 p.m. Info: (860) 617-2339

DANCE SHOWCASE – WILLIMANTIC

EastConn’s Capitol Theater Arts Academy (CTAA) will present its annual Spring Dance Showcase at the Capitol Theater, 896 Main St., Willimantic, featuring 63 young dancers from across northeastern Connecticut at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $10. Tickets for students and seniors are $8. For tickets and information, contact Jessica Folta at (860) 465-5636.

Posted May 19, 2012, links added by Brenda Sullivan, HTNP.com Editor

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

Congratulations to ECSU Class of 2012

As part of ECSU's commencement traditions, students toss a coin into a fountain and make a wish, and the coins are donated to Eastern. Ryan McMenemy of Willington decided to make a slam-dunk when it was his turn. Commencement was held at the XL Center in Hartford, CT on May 15, 2012. Photo by Matt Hulten

Eastern Connecticut State University’s 122nd Commencement took place at the XL Center in Hartford on May 15. In all, 1,230 undergraduates and 88 graduate students earned their degrees.

Michael S. Roth, president of Wesleyan University, delivered the Commencement address. He told the graduates he hoped they had learned three things at Eastern: “What you love to do, how to get better at it and how to share that with others.”

“I hope that at Eastern you have found something that stirs your soul, that draws what is best from you,” he said.

Roth also told the Class of 2012, “The habits of mind developed in liberal arts environments like Eastern’s… will empower you to see opportunity where others see only obstacles.”

Roth concluded that universities, “must continue to strive to be places where young people discover and cultivate their independence and must themselves resist the trends of inequality that are tearing at the fabric of our country.”

Eastern President Elsa M. Núñez told the graduates not to sit on the sidelines.

“The challenges we face today as a nation and international community are ours to face and ours to solve… there is no other country in the world that places its future so firmly in the hands of the people. You are now the next generation of citizen leaders in our state and in our nation.”

“Together, you can be the force of change that can keep our country strong. It is your time. You are the leaders of the future, and the future starts now,” she said.

Below is a list of ECSU graduates from the HTNP.com readership area.

Congratulations to:

Columbia

Sonya Sellers of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Biology

Rebekah Bailey of Columbia, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in English

Megan Berube of Columbia, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Social Work

Sara Billy of Columbia, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Visual Arts

Sara Billy of Columbia, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Communication

Duane Cronkite of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Todd DiGiovanni of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Kellie Donovan of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Mathematics

Sarah Guilbeault-Desso of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Sociology and Applied Social Relations

Brittany Keegan of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Mathematics

Jamie Kohn of Columbia, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Physical Education

Kelly Landers of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in English

Katharine McManus of Columbia, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Theatre

Katharine McManus of Columbia, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Communication

Hilary Osborn of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Theatre

Timothy Rea of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Communication

Robert Sartori of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Nickalus Stevens of Columbia, CT, graduated with a degree in Social Work

Coventry

David Albano of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Jennifer Andrews of Coventry, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Biology

Monique Raboin of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Accounting

Melanie Zurmuhlen of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Erica Borst of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Sociology

Kevin Clancy of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in History and Social Science

Justin Ferrari of Coventry, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Business Information Systems

Sean Garrity of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Accounting

Carly Herman of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Sociology

Mary Luchenbill of Coventry, CT, graduated with dean’s distinction with a degree in Business Administration

Sarah Luchenbill of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Sociology

Matthew Maturo of Coventry, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Visual Arts

Mark Oakley of Coventry, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Visual Arts

Eryka Soucy of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Lee Traygis of Coventry, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

East Haddam

Holly Carver of East Haddam, CT, graduated with a degree in Communication

Christopher Finch of East Haddam, CT, graduated with a degree in Biology

Arwid Gibinski of East Haddam, CT, graduated with a degree in Sport and Leisure Management

East Hampton

Roberta Perleoni of East Hampton, CT, graduated with dean’s distinction with a degree in Business Administration

Alexa Cascio of East Hampton, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Carl Gingras of East Hampton, CT, graduated with a degree in Sustainable Energy Science

Kevin Hines of East Hampton, CT, graduated with a degree in Communication

Kyle Levenduski of East Hampton, CT, graduated with a degree in Accounting

Samantha Root of East Hampton, CT, graduated with a degree in Visual Arts

Beatrice Tomasi of East Hampton, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Accounting

Denis Ugurlu of Haddam Neck, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Theatre

Hebron

Donald Risley of Hebron, CT, graduated with a degree in Psychology

Ryan Williams of Hebron, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Brian Archambault of Hebron, CT, graduated with a degree in Communication

Jerod Fromme of Hebron, CT, graduated with a degree in Physical Education

Terri LaPointe of Hebron, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Human Service

Morgan Rose of Hebron, CT, graduated with a degree in English

Walter Wroblinski of Hebron, CT, graduated with a degree in English

Mansfield-Storrs

Kimberly Blair of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Biology

Michael Calvo of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Mathematics

Michael Calvo of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Computer Science

James Gilligan of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

James Haseltine of Storrs Mansfield, CT, graduated with a degree in History and Social Science

Jules Sene of Storrs Mansfield, CT, graduated with a degree in Mathematics

Colin Dunnack of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Ann Eichner of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in General Studies

Yuhuan Gao of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Accounting

Kristen Gencorelli of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Sociology

Sencer Geyik of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Logan Johnson of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Accounting

Logan Johnson of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Accounting

Sarah Lavoie of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Social Work

Rebecca O’Bern of Storrs Mansfield, CT, graduated with a degree in English

Nicole Pedersen of Storrs Mansfield, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in History

Corey Pelletier of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Environmental Earth Science

Wajiha Yasmeen of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Social Work

Kristina Knapp of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in English

Jocelyn Loukas of Storrs, CT, graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Education and Sociology

Jessica Sauve of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Psychology

Luen Yeung of Mansfield Center, CT, graduated with a degree in Sociology and Applied Social Relations

Marlborough

Anna Sauve of Marlborough, CT, graduated with a degree in Environmental Earth Science

Vincent Aloia of Marlborough, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Visual Arts

Michael Boursy of Marlborough, CT, graduated with a degree in Environmental Earth Science

Jennifer Gorcenski of Marlborough, CT, graduated with a degree in Science

Elizabeth Grant of Marlborough, CT, graduated with a degree in English

Sarah Mockalis of Marlborough, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in History and American Studies

Erin Murphy of Marlborough, CT, graduated with a degree in Psychology

Margaret Napolitano of Marlborough, CT, graduated with a degree in Mathematics

Jaime O’Connor of Marlborough, CT, graduated with a degree in History

Willington

Corey Smolen of Willington, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Information Systems

Shawn Craver of Willington, CT, graduated with a degree in Computer Science

Douglas LaBonte of Willington, CT, graduated with a degree in Environmental Earth Science

Megan LeBlond of Willington, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Psychology

Ryan McMenemy of Willington, CT, graduated with a degree in Accounting

Michael Monopoli of Willington, CT, graduated with a degree in Accounting

Keri Radell of Willington, CT, graduated with a degree in Social Work

Carmen Rodriguez of Willington, CT, graduated with a degree in Psychology

Windham-Willimantic

Judithann Arce of North Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Visual Arts

Chelsea Arne of Windham, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Psychology

Angelica Booker of North Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Psychology

Allison O’Connor of Windham, CT, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in English and Early Childhood Education

Sarah Schultz of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in History

Clint Slowik of North Windham, CT, graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Visual Arts

Laura Cinciripino of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Business Administration

Megan Fitzgerald of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in English

Jeffrey Haines of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Psychology

Chris Jolley of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Computer Science

Amy Knight of North Windham, CT, graduated with dean’s distinction with a degree in Business Administration

Samira Niazy of North Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Biology

Alexis Smith of Windham, CT, graduated cum laude with a degree in Music

Gillian Weeks of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Sociology and Applied Social Relations

Nicole Weis of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Psychology

Holly Cruz of Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Sociology

Elyjah Shapera of North Windham, CT, graduated with a degree in Communication

Eastern Connecticut State University is the state’s public liberal arts university. Eastern serves approximately 5,600 students each year on its Willimantic campus and satellite locations.

Posted May 18, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

CT State Police are recruiting new troopers through May 29 2012

The Connecticut State Police Department is preparing to accept applications for employment for the position of State Trooper. Enrollment for the Trooper Exam began Monday, May 14 and will continue through May 29, 2012.

The Connecticut State Police offers an exciting career opportunity, a competitive salary and excellent benefits.

Applications can be downloaded from the State Police web site at http://www.ct.gov/despp/cwp/view.asp?a=4215&q=494752 or by contacting a State Police recruiter at 203-630-8070.

Also on the State Police web site, potential recruits will find the specific requirements that are necessary to apply to be a Trooper.

Anyone who wishes to compete for the position of Trooper must have completed and submitted the application online by May 29, 2012.

The Connecticut State Police was founded in 1903 and is the oldest State Police agency in the United States.

More than 1,000 Troopers are assigned to barracks scattered across the state and to dozens of specialized units.

State Police Troopers are primary law enforcement providers in 82 of the 169 municipalities in Connecticut. The Connecticut State Police is the third largest police force in New England.

Posted May 17, 2012

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

Hebron church invites you to Healing Mass

In Hebron, The Compassion Ministry of the Church of the Holy Family invites you to attend the 6th annual Healing Mass to be held on Sunday, June 10 at 11 a.m. at the church. All are invited! For those that wish to participate in an individual blessing, the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick will be administered during the Mass.

In Hebron, The Compassion Ministry of the Church of the Holy Family invites you to attend the 6th annual Healing Mass to be held on Sunday, June 10 at 11 a.m. at the church. All are invited!

For those who wish to participate in an individual blessing, the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick will be administered during the Mass.

A complimentary luncheon will be held in the church hall immediately following the Mass.

Reservations for the luncheon are required. Please contact Roger at the Parish House at 860-228-0096 # 2 or email compassion@holyfamilyhebron.org Please include the number of people who will be attending the luncheon.

The reservation deadline is June 4, 2012.

Questions? Call Roger at 860-228-0096 # 2 or email compassion@holyfamilyhebron.org

Posted May 15, 2012

Editor’s note: We are currently making security improvements to our Web site, and you may sometimes receive a message that the site is temporarily unavailable. We thank you for being patient.

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.

Gov. Malloy orders flags to fly half staff for Peace Officers Memorial Day

Trooper Memorial. Image source: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy directed the U.S. and Connecticut flags lowered to half staff today in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day, observed annually on May 15.

“Our brave men and women in law enforcement do tremendous work to make our communities and our state safer. National Peace Officers Memorial Day gives us the opportunity to honor them and the sacrifices they make to protect and defend Connecticut,” Gov. Malloy said in a written statement today.

“This day also gives us the chance to honor those who have given their lives in the line of duty. Their service to Connecticut will never be forgotten,” Gov. Malloy said.

Started in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, National Peace Officers Memorial Day corresponds with Police Week.

Flags will fly at half staff until sunset on May 15.

Posted May 15, 2012; Photo source Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles http://hsmv.state.fl.us/fhp/PhotoGallery/2008/PG051508.htm

Editor’s note: We are currently making security improvements to our Web site, and you may sometimes receive a message that the site is temporarily unavailable. We thank you for being patient.

Have a news item, event or Letter to the Editor you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. For daily updates on local and Connecticut news, “like” us on Facebook at HTNP News.