Monday, January 29, 2018

"So Bea It' Draws Full House

An appreciative and enthusiastic crowd completely filled the Hubbard Room at Russell Library for a presentation of an original play by Carolyn Kirsch, performed by the Vintage Players on Sunday afternoon.

The play tells the story of Willie Fletcher (played by Billy Johnstone) and the eccentric aunt who raised him, Bea Fletcher (Kirsch).

The story artfully tells their story, set in contemporary Hoboken. Willie and the audience witness the weirdness of the aunt with varying degrees of mystification and annoyance. But as the story develops, the audience learns that there is a method to madness of the aunt, all of which is to the benefit of Willie.

In a few remarks introducing the play, Kirsch said that much of the dialogue was written for the actors who played each part.Kirsch has written an engaging play that should be widely seen.

She was also wonderful as the eccentric aunt. She first showed us just a crazy old woman, and then slowly and seamlessly revealed that there was a caring and thoughtful method behind her madness.

Johnstone did well in many scenes, but he did not create as sympathetic a character.

Jane McMillan was masterful as the blunt and outspoken Mrs. Elaine Dalrymple, a lawyer who enjoyed the legal challenges posed by the eccentric Aunt. Richard Kamins had the audience in guffaws as René de Parlez Beaucoup, a faux French waiter with too much to say about wine. Linda Kaskel was a convincing romantic interest for Willie Fletcher, and Emma Kaskel showed great poise on stage as her daughter.

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Seasonal Flu Clinic Saturday

From information provided by the Department of Public Health and the City of Middletown Health Department.
-----------------------
City residents can get free or very low cost protection against the flu, this Saturday, in our neighboring town of Cromwell:
January 27, 2018
9AM to 1PM
Town Hall, 42 West Street, Cromwell
The flu season this year has seen 1,342 confirmed cases of influenza infection in the state, with 68 in our county, according to the most recent weekly update.  About half of those were hospitalized.

Across the United States, Reuters reports that at least 30 children have died from the flu this season.

To protect the public’s health and reduce the spread of the influenza (flu) virus, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is teaming up with local health departments to provide free/low cost influenza vaccine on Saturday, January 27th. Our health department is participating with Cromwell, Durham, and Middlefield, to offer the vaccine in Cromwell.

DPH strongly encourages all Connecticut residents over the age of 6 months to get a flu shot.

“For those Connecticut residents who haven’t yet received a flu shot, we hope they will take advantage of these flu clinics,” said DPH Commissioner Dr. Raul Pino. “It is not too late to get protection from the flu this season.”

Vaccine administered to children 18 years of age and younger will be made available free of charge. Vaccine for children comes from the Connecticut Vaccine Program. Managed by DPH, this program provides influenza vaccine free of charge for all children 6 months through 18 years of age. Adult vaccine will be provided at no cost to those without insurance.  Residents with insurance should bring their card and will be charged a small administrative fee, but will not be charged out of pocket for the vaccine.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that is spread through the air and by direct contact with respiratory droplets. Typical symptoms of the flu include sudden fever, aching muscles, sore throat, coughing, runny nose, headache, and eye pain.

While anyone, particularly individuals who are not vaccinated, can contract the flu, the illness is especially dangerous for certain groups, including: people aged 65 and older; children younger than 2 years old; people of any age with chronic medical conditions, like asthma, diabetes, congestive heart failure, or lung disease; and pregnant women.

To save time, participants can download and fill out the immunization consent form available HERE

Sponsored by Mass Dispensing Area 36 (MDA36): Cromwell, Durham, Middlefield, and Middletown Health Departments.

Wednesday, January 24, 2018

Teen Open Mic

Teens, looking for a place to perform? A place to recite your latest poem?
How about your newest original scene? Or, a time-tested monologue? If so, The Buttonwood Tree Teen Open Mic is FOR YOU!
Be a part of Buttonwood’s first ever open mic specifically for teen performers ages 12-18. Perform any type of artwork: you can use our piano or bring a guitar, ukulele, or other instrument to play! Cover your favorite song or perform an original! Whether it is your first time performing or you are an experienced teen musician, poet, or artist, the Buttonwood Tree is a positive, supporting environment for teens to perform. Parents and friends are welcome to come support!
Thanks to Matt at the Middlesex Music Academy, a back line of a full drum kit, bass amp and guitar amp can be provided with advance notice. Email or call us to make arrangements.
​Instagram:
 
 

February 17 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm $5.00

Aligned with Source: An Interactive Workshop & Meditation with Annaita Gandhy

A Spiritual & Holistic Healer from India, Annaita is experienced in applying varied healing modalities to a wide range of situations. In these inter-active workshops, Annaita seeks to empower, sharing her deep understanding of life, holism and spirituality, enabling you to rise above life’s challenges, live a healthy, fulfilled & confident life.
Life is never easy and change must come from within. In today’s environment of hardship, ill-health, corruption and inequality it is often difficult to see the Light. The purpose of this workshop is to empower you to see yours.
Be the change you wish to see. All you need is Willingness.
This Weeks Topic: Conscious Change from Within
Suggested donation: $10


February 17 @ 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

 http://buttonwood.org/event/a-workshop-aligned-with-source-annaita-gandhy-8-2017-10-14-2017-10-21-2017-10-28-2018-01-13-2018-02-17/

Carolyn Halsted Piano Concert “The Ground Doth Sing”

Description:  Grounds, chaconnes, and other music by Bach/Busoni, Halsted, Purcell, Part, Whitbourn, and Ligeti.
BIO:
Carolyn Halsted holds degrees from Oberlin Conservatory of Music (music history, piano performance) and Wesleyan University (world music, specializing in South Indian music and piano). Her principal piano teacher was Jeaneane Dowis, with whom she studied post degrees. She has taught music in Chennai (India) and at Eastern Connecticut State University, the Community Music School in Centerbrook, New England Music Camp, Friends Music Camp, Wesleyan University, and privately. She performs frequently as soloist, accompanist, and chamber musician, collaborating with members of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, CONCORA, and faculty and students at Central Connecticut State University and Wesleyan. She plays for ballet classes at Wesleyan, and has served as music director, organist, or guest musician in many Connecticut parishes. She has also written numerous piano, vocal, and choral works.
 
 

February 16 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

$15
 
 http://buttonwood.org/event/carolyn-halsted-piano-concert-the-ground-doth-sing/

Shaking the Tree – Gong and Sound Meditation

Greetings and welcome all!! My name is Andrew and I would like to invite you to the soundship meditation that is Shaking The Tree! I do my practice with many different sound tools and percussion affects including but not limited to; Gongs, bells, ocarinas, drums, horns, Shakers, Singing bowls and many other meditation items to create a soundship for you to take off in and travel to and from meditation land. Each month we will have a new guest join us and share their talents and special unique gifts with all of us. This will indeed be a night to remember! So tell a friend, bring the family, bring a blanket and pillow to lay down on. Bring your zero gravity chair if you have one and as always please Bring good intentions.
P.S. Please be respectful and considerate of the soundscape by not talking during the meditation.
                                         $10 Suggested Donation
 http://buttonwood.org/event/shaking-the-tree-gong-and-sound-meditation-2/2018-02-15/

Intentional & Empowering Yoga

Lead By Theresa Govert

Join us for a fun, accessible and supportive Hatha Yoga class that brings awareness to breathing, intention to movement and an emphasis on inner wisdom and body positivity. You will leave feeling connected and empowered!
 
Theresa Govert is a yoga instructor and feminist activist based out of East Haddam, CT. She is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with Yoga Alliance and is insured with Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. She has studied and practiced meditation and yoga in the USA and Southern Africa and completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India at Rishikesh Yog Peeth. Along with group classes and individual sessions, Theresa leads workshops bringing together yoga, feminism & activism and yoga hikes.
For Theresa, yoga has been a journey back into her own body- celebrating it for movement, strength and life rather than hating it for not being perfect enough. Theresa believes that yoga is for everyBODY regardless of size, gender, race, ability, etc. She’s excited to make the gifts of community, connection, movement and yoga available to all.
The Inverted Tree Yogi is rooted in the belief that both in yoga and in our daily lives we benefit by moving our roots, gaining new perspectives and nourishing that which is essential to us.
 
 For more information and/or to join us in community please go to https://www.facebook.com/invertedtreeyogi
DONATIONS WILL GO TO SUPPORT THE BUTTONWOOD TREE!
 
 February 13 @ 1:15 pm - 2:15 pm
 
 http://buttonwood.org/event/intentional-empowering-yoga-8/2018-02-13/

Anything Goes Open Mic & Moments of Gratitude – Ashley Hamel

February 12 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

|Recurring Event (See all)
$5
Hosted by Ashley Hamel, the Rob and Terri Duo, Bill Katz, or Kyla. Sign up starts at 6:30pm, the open mic at 7:00pm and goes to about 10:00pm. $5 for entry.
At 8:00pm, during the open mic, we host Moments of Gratitude from 8:00pm – 8:15pm. Sharing our gratitude to build positive energy and encouragement!
Bios for hosts
Ashley Hamel
A popular staple of the Middletown Arts scene, Ashley Hamel is a multi-talented singer-songwriter, improv comedian, and wizard rockstar (Harry Potter fan music). With a background in theatre and improv comedy, Ashley delivers audience-centric performances that entertain and aim to connect with the deepest parts of ourselves.
Rob and Terri Duo
The Terri and Rob Duo is made up of Terri Lachance and Rob Desorbo. Terri is a singer songwriter who has been writing songs all her life and plays guitar. Rob plays bass guitar and provides vocals. He has played with many area bands including Eran Troy Danner, The Redliners, and Snakebite.
Bill Katz
Bill Katz is an art dealer by trade and owns a picture framing business. Bill has given up on being a human and his feline metamorphosis is complete. He now answers to Catman Bill
Kyla Pitruzzello
Kyla, with her raspy vocal that is surprisingly crystal clear at times is accompanied by her rhythmic driven, reverb filled, acoustic guitar. Her songwriting and performances are raw and unfiltered. Many moons ago she lived a unfulfilling life managing a molecular services laboratory, spending her days mulling over data trying to make sense of it all. Since making her exodus from the world of genomics, Kyla now focuses on the science of living her life, fully, musically, creatively, and without regret. A self proclaimed, spiritually influenced, naturalist, her greatest desire is to live as a vagabond with a home address.
Also a photographer in training, she has traveled around the world with a camera taking pictures of all its beauty and its changes. An individual who worked for years in the field of science, she believes climate change is real and politicians are not the ones who are going to save us. This perspective can be seen in the lyrics of many of her songs, expressing the dire need for humanity change its way of life.
She released her Debut album “Life Lessons Part I: Earth and Fire” in October 2011. Dividing her songs into categories based on the 4 elements, she took on Earth and Fire first. The album begins with Earth. Songs like “Collide” and “Lost” show her long lost search for a home, and ‘Beautiful World” a plea for the people of the world to go outside and see for themselves that the Earth speaks to us. From Earth, she moves onto Fire with songs like “Contamination”, “Don’t Turn Around”, and “A Lie”. She explores the powerful forces that have shaped our current lives and will determine our future. Speaking to the importance of communication and understanding with clarity, her lyrics are a powerful reminder that things around us are not always as they seem, but the truth is there hiding in-between the lies.
Having already written songs that take on the last two elements, she hopes start recording her second album soon. A water sign, she is undoubtedly influenced by the current state of the Oceans and the dwindling supply of clean drinkable water. With songs like “Plastic” and “Be Alive” she hopes to convey a message to humanity, that we are at a crossroads and it is time to wake up.
 
 http://buttonwood.org/event/anything-goes-open-mic-moments-of-gratitude-45/2018-02-12/

NEAR and Far Storytellers FEATURING Joe Flood

This event is being hosted by Jim Harriman and Carolyn Stearns.
SHOW DESCRIPTION:
What a great place to try out a new story or an oldie that needs polish or as a neophyte just to get your feet wet in front of the storytelling community.  The first half of the program is an open mic session for anyone to venture into the excitement of story. The second half will feature a familiar voice to the Buttonwood, Joe Flood. Joe has performed many times before Buttonwood audiences and has delighted people with his unique musical style.
BIO:
Joe is also a graduate of Robin Moore’s Master’s Degree in Oral Traditions from the Graduate Institute and featured performer at the Connecticut Storytelling Festival. He describes his stories as “busker stories,” stories about the people and places he’s known as a street performer in his early career. But he also mixes in traditional stories. Primarily a musician, he always works some music in. “Not every song tells a story, but every song HAS a story.”
For NEAR and Far Storytellers, he will combine his multi-instrument talent with a plethora of tales gathered along his long musical road. For more information about his varied career and album releases, please go to his Website: www.joefloodmusic.com. Play special attention to “Songs from the Bend in the River”, a tribute to three 19th century songwriters from Middletown, where he grew up.
“Songs bursting with eccentric characters … a voice that perfectly straddles the fence between country and the blues …”
– Kaen Schoemer, The New York Times

Carolyn’s official website: http://www.carolynstearnsstoryteller.com/
Their official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NEAR-and-Far-Storytellers-197283876991691/


February 11 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

$10
 http://buttonwood.org/event/near-and-far-storytellers-4-2018-02-11/
 

Rosemary Minkler Trio

Featuring: Rosemary Minkler on Piano, Matt Dwonszyk on bass and Eric Hallenbeck on drums.
Born and raised in Waterbury, CT, Rosemary Minkler is an accomplished young pianist, composer, and audio engineer. Rosemary’s diverse abilities make her an in-demand musician. She is currently a member in Danbury-based fusion collective The Recess Bureau and often plays with other musicians in the Connecticut and New York area. Rosemary’s most recent release, Prospectus, is her debut as a bandleader, composer, and audio engineer.
Rosemary’s Website: https://www.rosemaryminkler.com/
CDbaby: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/rosemaryminkler


February 10 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

$10

Aligned with Source: An Interactive Workshop & Meditation with Annaita Gandhy

A Spiritual & Holistic Healer from India, Annaita is experienced in applying varied healing modalities to a wide range of situations. In these inter-active workshops, Annaita seeks to empower, sharing her deep understanding of life, holism and spirituality, enabling you to rise above life’s challenges, live a healthy, fulfilled & confident life.
Life is never easy and change must come from within. In today’s environment of hardship, ill-health, corruption and inequality it is often difficult to see the Light. The purpose of this workshop is to empower you to see yours.
Be the change you wish to see. All you need is Willingness.
This Weeks Topic: The Worth of Your Smile
Suggested donation: $10


February 10 @ 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Windborne

February 9 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

$15

Stunningly powerful vocal harmony floods the room as the four Windborne singers present Song on the Times, their project of working class movements for peoples’ rights from the past 400 years, sung for today struggles. The group was catapulted to new heights when the clip of them singing in protest outside Trump tower went viral, and their Indiegogo for the project raised 1,600% of its goal from 2,600 people in every State and 22 countries. Aside from this new project, Windborne has collected and studied polyphonic vocal music for over 15 years from traditional singing masters from cultures around the world, Windborne is able to shift from radically different genres like no band you have ever heard, as comfortable with an improvised Corsican couplet song, as an English ballad. Lynn Mahoney Rowan, Will Thomas Rowan, Lauren Breunig, and Jeremy Carter-Gordon share a vibrant energy onstage – their connection to each other and to the music clearly evident. They educate as they entertain, telling stories about the music and explaining the characteristics and stylistic elements of the traditions in which they sing.

Laughter Yoga

Laughter Yoga is a class that enables you to practice laughing so that when life happens and it gets difficult, you can laugh and change your perspective and state of mind. It involves child-like play with meditation and breathing exercises and laughing (no yoga mats needed).
Some benefits of laughter yoga include: Easy and fun exercise for health and happiness, reduces stress instantly, strengthens immune system, keeps you in a good mood and cheerful throughout the day, oxygenates your brain and makes you feel more energetic, keeps positive mental attitude in difficult times, burns calories and even increases memory.
Love Donations welcomed



February 6 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

 http://buttonwood.org/event/laughter-yoga-w-felix-4/2018-02-06/

Intentional & Empowering Yoga

Lead By Theresa Govert

Join us for a fun, accessible and supportive Hatha Yoga class that brings awareness to breathing, intention to movement and an emphasis on inner wisdom and body positivity. You will leave feeling connected and empowered!
 
Theresa Govert is a yoga instructor and feminist activist based out of East Haddam, CT. She is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with Yoga Alliance and is insured with Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. She has studied and practiced meditation and yoga in the USA and Southern Africa and completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India at Rishikesh Yog Peeth. Along with group classes and individual sessions, Theresa leads workshops bringing together yoga, feminism & activism and yoga hikes.
For Theresa, yoga has been a journey back into her own body- celebrating it for movement, strength and life rather than hating it for not being perfect enough. Theresa believes that yoga is for everyBODY regardless of size, gender, race, ability, etc. She’s excited to make the gifts of community, connection, movement and yoga available to all.
The Inverted Tree Yogi is rooted in the belief that both in yoga and in our daily lives we benefit by moving our roots, gaining new perspectives and nourishing that which is essential to us.
 
 For more information and/or to join us in community please go to https://www.facebook.com/invertedtreeyogi
DONATIONS WILL GO TO SUPPORT THE BUTTONWOOD TREE!
 
 

February 6 @ 1:15 pm - 2:15 pm

Hearing Voices Network

A program originally begun at Gilead Community Services, HVN is an opportunity for folks to come together to discuss their personal stories and talk with peers in a safe, friendly, accepting space.


February 5 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Secondary Messengers

The Secondary Messengers are devoted to recreating the music of the influential ensembles of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers recorded from the early ’50s to the late ’80s. Noted for improvisation in the funky hard bop idiom with close harmonic lines, an intense driving rhythm section, and meticulously crafted arrangements by composer-band members such as Horace Silver, Lee Morgan, Wayne Shorter, Woody Shaw, Benny Golson, and Kenny Dorham.
Website: http://dlpoccia.wixsite.com/secondary-messengers


February 3 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

$12

Aligned with Source: An Interactive Workshop & Meditation with Annaita Gandhy


February 3 @ 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

A Spiritual & Holistic Healer from India, Annaita is experienced in applying varied healing modalities to a wide range of situations. In these inter-active workshops, Annaita seeks to empower, sharing her deep understanding of life, holism and spirituality, enabling you to rise above life’s challenges, live a healthy, fulfilled & confident life.
Life is never easy and change must come from within. In today’s environment of hardship, ill-health, corruption and inequality it is often difficult to see the Light. The purpose of this workshop is to empower you to see yours.
Be the change you wish to see. All you need is Willingness.
This Weeks Topic: What 2018 means for YOU
Suggested donation: $10

 http://buttonwood.org/event/a-workshop-aligned-with-source-annaita-gandhy-8-2017-10-14-2017-10-21-2017-10-28-2018-01-13-2018-02-03/

Story City Troupe

Story City is a troupe of storytellers based in the Hartford, CT area and trained by Matt Dicks, one of The Moth’s champion storytellers. Story City Troupe uses The Moth Formula: all are true, personal stories, often funny, sometimes amazing, poignant or ironic and based on a single theme for the evening. The troupe members range in age from their 20’s to their 70’s, proving you can come up with a good story at any age.
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll identify!
This group is led by Sue Huggans and welcomes new members.
This Month’s Cast: Mike Isko, Maire Greene, Nina Lesiga, Dana Savo, Rick Komorowski, Tarn Granucci, Sue Huggans.
This Month’s Theme: “That Song”


February 2 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

$10
 
 http://buttonwood.org/event/story-city-troupe-14/

Intentional & Empowering Yoga

Lead By Theresa Govert

Join us for a fun, accessible and supportive Hatha Yoga class that brings awareness to breathing, intention to movement and an emphasis on inner wisdom and body positivity. You will leave feeling connected and empowered!
 
Theresa Govert is a yoga instructor and feminist activist based out of East Haddam, CT. She is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with Yoga Alliance and is insured with Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. She has studied and practiced meditation and yoga in the USA and Southern Africa and completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India at Rishikesh Yog Peeth. Along with group classes and individual sessions, Theresa leads workshops bringing together yoga, feminism & activism and yoga hikes.
For Theresa, yoga has been a journey back into her own body- celebrating it for movement, strength and life rather than hating it for not being perfect enough. Theresa believes that yoga is for everyBODY regardless of size, gender, race, ability, etc. She’s excited to make the gifts of community, connection, movement and yoga available to all.
The Inverted Tree Yogi is rooted in the belief that both in yoga and in our daily lives we benefit by moving our roots, gaining new perspectives and nourishing that which is essential to us.
 
 For more information and/or to join us in community please go to https://www.facebook.com/invertedtreeyogi
DONATIONS WILL GO TO SUPPORT THE BUTTONWOOD TREE!
 
 

January 30 @ 1:15 pm - 2:15 pm

Anything Goes Open Mic & Moments of Gratitude – Kyla

Hosted by Ashley Hamel, the Rob and Terri Duo, Bill Katz, or Kyla. Sign up starts at 6:30pm, the open mic at 7:00pm and goes to about 10:00pm.  
$5 for entry.
At 8:00pm, during the open mic, we host Moments of Gratitude from 8:00pm – 8:15pm. Sharing our gratitude to build positive energy and encouragement!
Bios for hosts
Ashley Hamel
A popular staple of the Middletown Arts scene, Ashley Hamel is a multi-talented singer-songwriter, improv comedian, and wizard rockstar (Harry Potter fan music). With a background in theatre and improv comedy, Ashley delivers audience-centric performances that entertain and aim to connect with the deepest parts of ourselves.
Rob and Terri Duo
The Terri and Rob Duo is made up of Terri Lachance  and Rob Desorbo. Terri is a singer songwriter who has been writing songs all her life and plays guitar. Rob plays bass  guitar and provides vocals.. He has played with many area bands including Eran Troy Danner,  The Redliners and Snakebite
Bill Katz
Bill Katz is an art dealer by trade and owns a picture framing business. Bill has given up on being a human and his feline metamorphosis is complete. He now answers to Catman Bill
Kyla Pitruzzello
Kyla, with her raspy vocal that is surprisingly crystal clear at times is accompanied by her rhythmic driven, reverb filled, acoustic guitar. Her songwriting and performances are raw and unfiltered. Many moons ago she lived a unfulfilling life managing a molecular services laboratory, spending her days mulling over data trying to make sense of it all. Since making her exodus from the world of genomics, Kyla now focuses on the science of living her life, fully, musically, creatively, and without regret. A self proclaimed, spiritually influenced, naturalist, her greatest desire is to live as a vagabond with a home address.
Also a photographer in training, she has traveled around the world with a camera taking pictures of all its beauty and its changes. An individual who worked for years in the field of science, she believes climate change is real and politicians are not the ones who are going to save us. This perspective can be seen in the lyrics of many of her songs, expressing the dire need for humanity change its way of life.
She released her Debut album “Life Lessons Part I: Earth and Fire” in October 2011. Dividing her songs into categories based on the 4 elements, she took on Earth and Fire first. The album begins with Earth. Songs like “Collide” and “Lost” show her long lost search for a home, and ‘Beautiful World” a plea for the people of the world to go outside and see for themselves that the Earth speaks to us. From Earth, she moves onto Fire with songs like “Contamination”, “Don’t Turn Around”, and “A Lie”. She explores the powerful forces that have shaped our current lives and will determine our future. Speaking to the importance of communication and understanding with clarity, her lyrics are a powerful reminder that things around us are not always as they seem, but the truth is there hiding in-between the lies.
Having already written songs that take on the last two elements, she hopes start recording her second album soon. A water sign, she is undoubtedly influenced by the current state of the Oceans and the dwindling supply of clean drinkable water. With songs like “Plastic” and “Be Alive” she hopes to convey a message to humanity, that we are at a crossroads and it is time to wake up.


January 29 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Hearing Voices Network

A program originally begun at Gilead Community Services, HVN is an opportunity for folks to come together to discuss their personal stories and talk with peers in a safe, friendly, accepting space.


January 29 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am

 

 http://buttonwood.org/event/hearing-voices-network-31/2018-01-29/

Everything Turned to Color

“Poetically Pop and Artfully Serene”,  Everything Turned To Color is the unlikely but serendipitous musical partnership between veteran songwriters Bryan and Kyle Weber, and Neha Jiwrajka

 Graduates of New York University, brothers Bryan and Kyle began their musical careers as leaders of the Alternative Rock band ZELAZOWA, releasing three full-length albums, touring the world from 2006-2009, and founding the DIY tour booking website IndieOnTheMove.com. Neha Jiwrajka (whose mother is a classically trained Hindustani singer) worked at tech giant Google in San Francisco, CA before leaving the company to pursue a masters degree in Jazz vocal performance at The New England Conservatory of Music. A classically trained pianist in her own right, Neha released her first solo record “The Dreamer” during her time in Boston, eventually relocating to NYC after graduation. It was in the lobby of their Brooklyn apartment building that Bryan first met Neha, the new neighbor that apparently didn’t mind his kids running, screaming, and climbing all over the lobby furniture. The chance encounter quickly turned into regular song workshopping sessions, which inevitably included Bryan’s longtime songwriting partner Kyle on lead guitar. In May of 2015, Bryan, Kyle, and Neha debuted as Everything Turned To Color at local DUMBO bar and music venue 68 Jay. Over the next two years, the trio of ex-Alt-Rock brothers and their classically trained neighbor toured up and down the northeast corridor time and time again, honing their Beatles meets Ella Fitzgerald-esque sound at notable venues including Rockwood Music Hall, World Cafe Live, Club Passim, and Daryl’s House, to name a few. In June of 2016, the group entered ECR Music Studios in NYC to track its debut album with esteemed musician/producer and founder of #IRespectMusic, Blake Morgan. The eleven song LP, entitled “Life Imagined”, was released on June 23, 2017 in tandem with two sold-out performances at Rockwood Music Hall in NYC. Says Mr. Morgan: “It’s rare that I’m hit this powerfully with new music–truly goose-bump inducing–and as a result, I’m not only a fan but completely sure that great things lie ahead for this band.”


January 27 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm    


$15 Suggested Donation

Aligned with Source: An Interactive Workshop & Meditation with Annaita Gandhy

A Spiritual & Holistic Healer from India, Annaita is experienced in applying varied healing modalities to a wide range of situations. In these inter-active workshops, Annaita seeks to empower, sharing her deep understanding of life, holism and spirituality, enabling you to rise above life’s challenges, live a healthy, fulfilled & confident life.
Life is never easy and change must come from within. In today’s environment of hardship, ill-health, corruption and inequality it is often difficult to see the Light. The purpose of this workshop is to empower you to see yours.
Be the change you wish to see. All you need is Willingness.
This Weeks Topic: Channeling Higher Frequencies
Suggested donation: $10

Bop Tweed Jazz

Stephen Roane, Jason Apostoleris and Tim Barry a.k.a., BOP TWEED, are very happy to be returning to the The Buttonwood Tree, they will be playing selections from their latest CD, “California Squares”, and previewing some new songs they’re working on, along with past favorites from previous CD’s. Bop Tweed is comprised of Steve Roane of Madison on guitar and vocals, Jason Apostoleris of East Haddam on percussion and Tim Barry of Stony Creek on bass. They are all seasoned musicians, playing a mixture of original songs and jazz & blues standards.
Listen to the Music of Bop Tweed here


January 26 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

$10

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

Vintage Players to present "So Bea It" at Russell Library January 28 at 2:00pm

Vintage Players and Russell Library, are proud to present a staged reading of "SO BEA IT," a new play by Carolyn Kirsch, on Sunday, January 28, at 2:00pm in the library's Hubbard Room. 

The play, which performed to sold-out houses this past November at Oddfellows Playhouse, is being repeated for those who missed its debut this past fall. 

This is quirky comedy with a heart of gold! 
Put together an eccentric aunt, a nervous nephew, a beautiful love interest, a flamboyantly funny French waiter, and various well-meaning townspeople and, when stirred, you have the makings of a fun-filled, yet poignant stew. Just the thing to brighten spirits for a cold day in January!

The cast includes: Cookie Quinones, Debra Hunt, Emma Kaskel, Gerry Matthews, Richard Kamins, Linda Kaskel, Jane McMillan, Carolyn Kirsch and Billy Johnstone.
Since its inception twenty-three years ago, Jane McMillan has been the Producer/ Artistic Director of Vintage Players. The Company has been a mainstay of the arts scene in Middletown and has produced over thirty staged readings and productions.
Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.


Film Series Continues with Free Screening of Just Eat It on February 5

The next screening in The Elements: An Annual Environmental Film Series will be Just Eat It, about food waste and food rescue. The film will be shown on Monday, February 5, 2018, 7 pm at Powell Family Cinema on the campus of Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT (directions). All films are open to the public and free of charge.

"We all love food. As a society, we devour countless cooking shows, culinary magazines
and foodie blogs. So how could we possibly be throwing nearly 50% of it in the trash?"

As described on the film's website, Just Eat It documents filmmakers and food lovers Jen Rustemeyer (Producer) and Grant Baldwin (Director/Editor/Composer) as they investigate the issue of waste from farm, through retail, all the way to their own fridge. After their eyes are opened to the billions of dollars of good food thrown away each year in North America, they pledge to quit grocery shopping and survive only on foods that would otherwise be thrown away. In a nation where one in 10 people is food insecure, the images they capture of squandered groceries are both shocking and compelling. Just Eat It looks at our systemic obsession with expiration dates, perfect produce and portion sizes, and reveals the core of this issue that is having devastating consequences around the globe. Just Eat It brings farmers, retailers, inspiring organizations, and consumers to the table in a story that is equal parts education and entertainment.

After the film, we welcome you to stay for an informal discussion. 

We hope you can join us! Phone our office at 860-346-3282 for more information.


The Elements: An Annual Environmental Film Series was begun in 2015 by the Connecticut River Coastal Conservation District, Middlesex Community College Environmental Science Program, The Rockfall Foundation, and Wesleyan University's Center for the Arts and College of the Environment. Previous films include: Elemental, Watershed, Dirt! The Movie, Chasing Ice, The End of the Line, The True Cost, Dukale's DreamXmas Without China, Merchants of Doubt, Racing to Zero, Forgotten Farms, and A Plastic Ocean.

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

You Can't Fight Ignorance With Ignorance

This essay is printed with permission.  It first appeard on her mother's Facebook page.  As Tara Hightower explains, she is an African American VoAg student at Middletown High School.  On Friday, another VoAg student created a serious situation at the school when he was recorded waving a confederate flag and reportedly shouting racial epithets.

My name is Tara Hightower and I am a student who was closely affected by the incident on Friday. 

As a black student who is in Ag (the Vocational Agricultural program at Middletown High School), I was interested in hearing what some of the parents were thinking. Through reading your comments and concerns I felt there was a need for me as a student to reach out to you. I myself am not on social media at the moment, as a personal goal to let myself be free, but I was fully aware of the situation by 7:30 Friday morning. 

As soon as I heard what had happened I was completely devastated and disappointed in his actions. As a person who considers the student a part of my Ag family, I knew he was going to need support although I didn’t agree with what he did. The actions he took on Friday were not because of ignorance or hate towards the non-whites of this community, it was a thoughtless act of stupidity. 

From the start of my first class, everyone was talking about it and I had to bite my tongue because I didn’t want to make the situation escalate more than it already had. I went through two classes and then during my third class one of my fellow Ag students and classmates, who is also black, had to leave the room because she was so frustrated with what happened. 

I then received the message that one of my friends was in the guidance office crying because she was being threatened by other students. I was one of the students who decided we should all go down and get her so she wouldn’t have to feel afraid anymore. We were trying to combat the heat that was coming towards everyone and trying to de-escalate the situation. 

It is unfortunate that had to happen, but shortly after we had a meeting with all of the Advanced Ag students. In our two hour period, we discussed the situation with our class advisors, a few of our security guards, and many of our administrators. During this time we talked about what had exactly happened and how it had affected not only the people in our school but our reputation as a program. 

For years the Ag program has been seen as a group of racists and that is a hard stereotype to be held under. We try our best not to talk about it but to make sure all of our accomplishments raise our program up rather than bring it down. 

We want people to know all of the good we have done for the community and not the unfortunate mistake one of our students displayed. I want to make clear this is not to single out the kids in the Ag program from the rest of the student body, I just want people to be aware of what kids went through from my perspective (I want to let people know I was not aware of the protest Tuesday morning until I read these posts). 

We also talked about how to try and recuperate and how to respond to comments being made to us in the hallways and in class. We were told to not fight and bicker with other students but to tell them that we care and we know what happened was not okay. From what I have read a lot of people were talking about how everyone including the teachers were affected. I know this is true but it wasn’t specifically because of the one student, it was because of how fast the situation escalated and all the students that were crying because of the situation. 

I feel for all of the teachers and students that were affected and I feel as though social media changed the way our town heard the story. I don’t think anyone who posted about it told the true story of what happened.  Mind you, the video shouldn't have been posted to begin with, nor should the situation have occurred. I believe that is what made the situation blow up so fast. As I sit here at 10 pm trying to relay this message I can’t help but think about what social media and ignorant comments can do to a situation. 

There have been many comments by people of the community that have not been bringing us together but breaking us apart. We need to all support each other no matter what.

I think Dr.Martin Luther King said it best when he stated: “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies but the silence of our friends.” That quote to me is truly related to this situation. As a community we are all banded together, we need to all be friends, not acquaintances or enemies. 

Although other people may not be fighting for exactly what you are, everyone needs support. Even the student who committed the act needs support in this time of weakness. You can’t fight ignorance with ignorance, you can only fight it with love. 

We cannot let our peers be alone when they need a shoulder to lean on, we can only raise them up and give them exactly what they need. Because as a society we are all connected in one way or another no matter what, it is truly important we keep those bonds strong. 

As I wrap this up I want to leave you with this: “The time is always right to do what is right” -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Thank you so much for listening to what I had to say. I hope this cleared up anything people were wondering about, I wish you love and peace in this time of conflict.

Monday, January 15, 2018

Dear White Residents of Middletown

Letter submitted by Lisa Loomis, member of the Board of Education. Loomis states that she is not writing for the Board of Education.
The Middletown Eye welcomes writing from all perspectives.

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Dear White Residents of Middletown,

We live in what may be the most polarized time in modern history. Most of us consume media that reinforces our own world view; we interact with people online and in person who look and think like we do. Not only that, but that media and those people demonize and denigrate people whose world view is different from our own. This is human nature, and I am as guilty as the next person.

I’m not writing about the incident that happened at Middletown High last Friday because to limit the conversation to that incident would be missing the point. It was not an isolated incident; it is a symptom of broader issues confronting Middletown. I’m learning the only way to reverse the polarization that has occurred nationally is to start dialogues locally. After the riot in Charlottesville last August, we had a vigil in Middletown, and at the vigil, I told the story of Derek Black, an up and coming leader of the white supremacist movement, who eventually renounced white supremacy because a man named Matthew Stevenson chose to build a relationship Derek rather than shun him.

I’ve addressed this letter to white people because challenging racism is our job. It is our mess, and we need to clean it up. First, we need to find out from people of color how big and deep our mess is because we really have no idea. We need to go to communities of color, and we need to listen: what are their experiences and feelings and perspectives and what do they want and need us to do? Then we need to go to white people who think differently from us, and we need to listen to them too. Dialogue only really happens when you seek first to understand.

I’m hopeful. I have faith in the people of Middletown and in our leaders that we are ready to do this hard work. What better way to honor Dr. King’s legacy? Who’s with me?

Sincerely,
Lisa Loomis

Friday, January 12, 2018

Drew Ends Campaign For Governor

Dan Drew just sent this email to his supporters declaring that he and his partner in the campaign, Liz Linehan, have decided to withdraw from the gubernatorial, and lieutenant governor race.


Thursday, January 11, 2018

Drum Fest Service begins 350th Year at First Church

Other drums, other times.

Let’s Connect!

The highly charged beat of African drums and other percussion instruments will highlight the service
at First Church on Sunday, January 14, 2018,
as First Church begins its 350th anniversary year celebration.

Come and experience the powerful effect of the primal drumbeat--it will stir your blood, give your heart a boost, and recharge your spirit after these several cold and snowy weeks.


Caution: Dancing might break out during the service! ... But it's unlikely that people will be playing cards. (Both dancing and card playing were taboo on Sundays in the early days of the Congregational-UCC church in America.) There've been lots of other changes in this church, too ... as God is still speaking.


First Church is Open and Affirming. All are welcome. Bring your friends, bring your family, bring your children & babies! 

First Church in Middletown, CT
190 Court St., side door
Middletown, CT
On Facebook at First Church-FB  
for more information.
Or call our office 860-346-6657.
Child care available. Ample parking nearby.


Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Voices of Joy at Adath Israel


This Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m., Congregation Adath Israel presents "A Jewish A Cappella Concert" featuring Magevet (Yale) and Shir Appeal (Tufts).  Both groups have a long history of performing on campus, in Congregations and concert halls in the United States and around the world.  The concert takes place in the small sanctuary on the first floor of the synagogue.  If you look closely at the poster above, you'll see that the concert is being billed as "Elephants and Towels" -  read on.


Shir Appeal (pictured above) was founded in 1995 and is the only mixed-gender vocal group on the Tufts campus.  They perform a wide range of material, from Israeli classics (such as "Yerushalayam Shel Zahav" to Sabbath prayers ("Lecha Dodi") to contemporary songs ("Like The Dawn" by The Oh Hellos) by arranged by members and former members of the ensemble.   The mix of voices, harmonies, beats, and more makes Shir Appeal's music attractive to listeners of all ages and faiths. The ensemble has issued 10 CDs with the latest being 2016's "Perspective."  To find out more, go to www.shirappeal.com.  Tufts University mascot is Jumbo the Elephant - go to www.tufts.edu/about/jumbo to find out more about the monicker and the story behind it.


Magevet (above) has also been in existence since the mid-1990s, one of many vocal groups on the Yale campus.  Their repertoire also ranges from liturgical melodies to contemporary Israeli pop songs to pieces sung in Ladino (a combination of Spanish and Portuguese with Hebrew, Aramaic, Ottoman Turkish languages) to Yiddish classics.  Various versions of Magevet, (a Hebrew word that translates to "towel" - maybe they will explain - well, they better), have recorded eight albums since 1995, the latest being "Naveh Katan (a Small Oasis)" released in late 2016.  For more information, go to magevet.weebly.com.  

The concert is free and open to the public.  Thanks goes to the Edythe and Arthur Director Family Music Fund for sponsoring the concert. The goal of the Fund is to provide members of the Adath Israel community as well as the Greater Middletown community access to entertainment from around the world, artists and performers who work to illustrate the great scope of Jewish culture.  

Parking directly behind Adath Israel, 8 Broad Street, is not allowed but there is plenty of free on-street parking as well as several parking lots in the area (for instance, the lot behind the former Wesleyan bookstore on William Street or several lots off of Church Street). 

For more information, call the Synagogue office at 860-346-4709.  

Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Progressive Slate Overwhelms Drew Team


A large and organized group of Democrats today upended the established party leadership and ushered in a new era for the city.

Voters chose between two competing slates for the Democratic Town Committee (DTC). The slate put forward by existing leadership, which is loyal to Mayor Dan Drew, was composed almost entirely of people who have been on the DTC for many years, if not decades. In contrast, over half of the alternative slate was composed of people who have not previously been on the DTC.
Blanchard and Drake

The alternative slate won in a landslide, by a vote of 118 to 41.

The Democrat (and Republican) Town Committees are elected for two year terms in the January after each municipal election. Their most important function is to determine who is on the ballot. They have complete control of party endorsements for all municipal elections, and for the two state legislator seats that are entirely in Middletown. They also select delegates to the nominating conventions for Governor and other state-wide and regional elections.

This makes the election of the DTC of great importance to Drew, who is a candidate in this year's election for Governor.

Nesci objects
Current DTC Chair Sal Nesci opened the caucus, and called for nominations for a chair and secretary of the caucus. The DTC leadership nominated former Councilman Todd Berch and Dan Ryan, while the backers of the progressive slate nominated Councilman Rob Blanchard and Chair of the Board of Education Chris Drake. The votes for each were lopsided, Blanchard and Drake receiving the overwhelming majority of the votes.

Two slates of candidates were then nominated, 75 individuals put forward by the executive board of the existing DTC, and 70 individuals put forward by a loose affiliation of progressive activists looking to change the direction of the DTC.

Nesci and other leaders of the existing DTC protested that in a meeting immediately preceding the caucus, they had increased the size of the DTC from 70 to 75, arguing that this made the alternative slate invalid.

Click to enlarge 
Drake pointed out that by state law, the
party was required to follow the bylaws filed with the State Central Party by November 10, and that the rules of the state take precedence over the rules of the town committee. The caucus became raucous during this discussion, as panicked supporters of Drew and the DTC realized that they had neither the votes nor the law on their side.

After nominations were closed, and the arguments abated, voters were asked to choose between the DTC slate printed on white paper, and the alternate slate, printed on yellow paper.  The yellow slate received almost 75% of the votes.

DTC Executive Nominated Slate
 (click to enlarge)
If Drew and his supporters wish to overturn the DTC election, they have the option of petitioning for a primary election in March. One activist who was on both the DTC slate and the alternate slate expressed hope that Drew would not mount such a challenge, "If Drew wishes to receive the support of progressives, he should not push to overturn the election of progressives to our city's DTC."


--------------
Disclaimer. I am one of the members of the alternative slate.

Monday, January 8, 2018

Scare At High School Monday

This image went out on social media Sunday night and sent a scare through Middletown High School students who received it, and parents who saw the image of guns, with the message "Don't go to school tomorrow at MHS."

The image, of several weapons, was reported to the Middletown Police Department and the Middletown Board of Education.

A reported investigation late last night showed that the image came from a source in Georgia, and an "MHS" school there.  Reports suggested that a suspect had already been apprehended in Georgia.

According to Board of Education sources there will be a strong, visible police presence at the high school today, which has a late start Monday morning.  

Sunday, January 7, 2018

New Year's Resolution Number 2




Make Art.

See more of Fred Carroll's extraordinary oeuvre later this month at MAC650 Gallery, 650 Main Street, Middletown; opening on January 20th, 2018. 

Thursday, January 4, 2018

Opinion: City Should Show Wesleyan How To Prize Its Heritage

COMMENT on "Oh the things you'll find under Agendas" (too long to fit in the comments box); submitted by Downtown Village District resident, trained architect and city planner Catherine Johnson. The Common Council voted Tuesday to acquire the building, in order to have it demolished by Wesleyan, and replaced by a parking lot. 
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The [Forest City Dry Cleaners] building is not abandoned - it is simply empty. The owner passed away and the widow allowed someone to use it so it would be looked after - and it was. Now the family wants to sell it. I thought we vowed to not rip buildings down anymore? We have erased so much already.

Yes, the site needs attention but, unlike other brownfield sites, this pollution is finite and easily remediated. Why the whole building would have to be removed when this particular contamination does not involve walls, I am not sure. It does need a new roof and a rebuilt clerestory. Ideally, if there really were a need for parking and the floor was already being removed, you'd plan for parking in the basement and retain the building above to use.

I am glad the city would take possession of the site so we can access grant for clean-up of the previous dry cleaner use and historic preservation to repair the roof. This is something the person caring for the building came to ask the city for help with over the past  4 years. But what I find odd is that it would instantly be considered as a parking lot when the building offers more promise as a space for activity.

Wesleyan doesn't need any more parking nor does the Village District. What we need is human beings doing things. What the school and the community could use is a building like this for performances, rehearsals, singing, yoga, recitals, exhibits, parties, celebrations, classes - oh, look! It could be used as a classroom during the day ...

People often think the best route is to tear a building down because they think it'd be cheaper or more efficient. But we now know, living in the age of LEED-certified buildings, that The Greenest Building is An Existing Building. All the time, energy, and raw materials that went into producing and transporting the bricks, beams and stone to the site to erect that building cost something. Pulling it down would throw all that investment into the landfill. All we'd end up with is an expensive, empty space. The usual reason demolition is suggested is not a result of a thoughtful reflection on the options, but instead because no one wants to make the effort to come up with a smaller, more time-intensive solution. Contractors, engineers, and architects are used to proposing new construction: Bigger project = Bigger fee. No one wants to admit that you could scrape,  repaint and re-glaze windows for pennies. It almost could be community project - instructing people how to do this for their own windows. The Town of Hamden retained the original windows when the old town hall was renovated simply because there was nothing wrong with the existing windows: they just needed some attention.

Once cleaned, I think this building could be renovated for less than $500,000 to make it useful: new roof, new floor, bare bones heating system and toilets. I would like the front saved to use as a wonderful porch - a truck hit it when someone working on the steam plant. This can be easily repaired. The front could also be a small store - it is a well-built space.

That building is an chance to reverse what we've done downtown for 5 decades. Were it rebuilt, we'd have something that could bring town and gown together in a way nothing else does. As Wesleyan leaves the Green Street School, where is the Venn Diagram intersection of our two worlds? We don't have another building like that next to campus on the downtown side.We've lost the Downey House. The Student Union, which architect Henry Bacon designed for the steam plant location was never built. Wesleyan wanted to rip down this dry cleaning building for years but the owner didn't want to sell it them.

I say, let's keep the building as a Monument to Alternatives that go farther than serving  the car. The car doesn't need our help! What we do need are places for purposes that the Russell Library Hubbard Room now serves somewhat - a place to gather, to talk, to meet, to discuss, to perform,to exhibit, to sing, to tell stories, to plot our future. We need a place we can get together when it's 5 degrees Fahrenheit out.

Pulling down a building to put up a parking lot is SO 20th century! Why not take this opportunity to do something that will reap a higher return on the investment?   If Wesleyan doesn't prize our heritage, than we should show them the way.