Out of One Year and Into Another

Tuesday December 29:

The Russell Library continues its Teen Anime Film series with a presentation of "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind", the 1984 animated film by Hayao Miyazaki. According to the film's website (click here), the story revolves around "Nausicaa, the princess of a small nation who lives in a world devastated by a holocaust called the "Seven Days of Fire." She tries to stop other warring nations from destroying themselves and from destroying the only means by which their world can be saved from the spread of polluted wastelands." The screening takes place at 4 p.m. in the Hubbard Room and refreshments will be served.  The event s free and open to all. For more information, call 860-347-2528, extension 135.

Wednesday December 30:

You have but one more day to check out the "natural images" of photographer Ross Powell currently on display in The Buttonwood Tree. The Cromwell resident (and Connecticut native) has many peaceful photographs to remind one how beautiful this area can be. Call 860-347-4957 for viewing times.

Thursday New Year's Eve:

South Church, corner of Main & Pleasant Street, presents pianist Neely Bruce performing an all-Mozart program at 7 p.m.  Joining him will be his wife Phyllis, a fine soprano.  The event is open to the public and an offering will be taken for the Church's Organ Fund.

New Year's Day 2010:

The Friends of the Long Hill Estate and the Long Hill Estate Authority presents the 11th Annual New Year's Day Open House, scheduled to take place from 1 - 4 p.m.  There will be carriage rides and guided trail walks (weather permitting) and bluegrass music featuring Amy Gallatin & Stillwaters.  Light refreshments and docent-led tours of the building are also on the day's menu. The event is free and open to the public.  For more information, go to www.wadsworthmansion.com or call 860-347-1064.

On Sunday January 3, my radio pal at WMRD-AM 1150 Ed Henry celebrates his 60th year (!) of his weekly "Polish Melodies Show."  When the show began in 1950, Harry Truman was the President and Chester Bowles was governor of the state.  Nat "King" Cole had a big hit with "Mona Lisa" and Patti Page was all the rage with "Tennessee Waltz". The top movies of the year were "All About Eve", "The Asphalt Jungle" and Walt Disney's "Cinderella"  The Cold War was is full swing and the Korean conflict began.  Mr. Henry will be celebrating on air (as he does every week - his shows are usually filled with joy) - tune in from 10-11 a.m. 

Happy New Year all and have a good, safe, celebration!