CONNECTICUT
News
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NEWS -----Please note: - Cities & Towns Follow After the News
What's New at Mystic Arts Center? Plenty. (See details below under Mystic)
Mohegan Sun Has Special Summer Savings Offer (see below under Uncasville
MATTATUCK MUSEUM UNVEILS $2 MILLION HISTORY EXHIBIT (see news below under Waterbury)
HOW SYRUP IS MADE IN CONNECTICUT
The weather has to be just right for the maple sap to begin to rise, with nights below freezing, and days in the 40s to 50s, so peak season can vary. Though equipment has modernized, the basic steps in making maple syrup have not changed. The trees are tapped; the thin, clear watery sap is collected and slowly, slowly simmered until it miraculously thickens into golden, gooey delectable syrup.
In olden days, tapping was done with a “spile,” a small hollow shaft inserted into the trees that allows the sap to drip into buckets. Native Americans did their simmering in a wooden vessel over a fire. Later horse-drawn carts were used to bring the buckets to the sugarhouse to be emptied into big black kettles to be simmered over a wood fire. Today bigger operations tend to attach plastic pipelines to the trees, feeding the sap into tanks that are brought to the sugarhouse on trucks. But whether the cooking is done with iron kettles or big shiny metal evaporators, the sap must still be boiled down until it thickens. Depending on the sugar content, it can take from 30 to 40 gallons of sap to boil down into a gallon of syrup, which explains why this delicacy comes with a high price tag.
A list of the Litchfield Hills region maple sugaring demonstrations follows. For a free brochure listing all Connecticut sugar houses, more information on winter activities, and a free copy of UNWIND, a 112-page color guide to lodging, dining and all the attractions in the Litchfield Hills, contact the Northwest Connecticut Convention and Visitors Bureau, PO Box 968, Litchfield, CT 06759, (860) 567-4506, or visit their website at www.litchfieldhills.com
For information on winter activities, skiing, sleigh rides, antiquing and a free copy of UNWIND, a 112-page color guide to lodging, dining and all the attractions in the Litchfield Hills of Northwest Connecticut, contact the Northwest CT Convention and Visitors Bureau, PO Box 968, Litchfield, CT 06759, (860) 567-4506 or check web site at www.litchfieldhills.com.
LAKEVILLE
Interlaken Inn Resort at Kent Falls Timeless Romance
Lovers who love country inns can enjoy two nights in a beautifully appointed guest room or suite at The Inn, a luxurious bed and breakfast inn in Kent. The package includes flowers, chocolate dipped strawberries, wine and a champagne brunch.
From $310. For more information, call 860-927-3197; or check web site www.innatkentfalls.com.The Interlaken Inn Resort
The Interlaken Inn Resort is located in historic Litchfield County, Connecticut, in the foothills of The Berkshires between two picturesque lakes. The property offers 80 first-class guestrooms, banquet & private dining rooms, and award-winning cuisine in Morgan’s restaurant.
Spend a Romantic Interlude in the Litchfield Countryside
Lovers seeking the perfect countryside escape need to look no farther than The Interlaken Inn of Lakeville., Connecticut. Nestled within historic Litchfield County, Lakeville is a charming New England village situated near the Massachusetts border.
Plan a weekend or weekday any time because it's always great. One of the wonderful things about The Interlaken Inn is the rich choice of accommodations. Select from five unique dwellings that make up the country Inn: the historic Victorian named Sunnyside for the vast expanse of sunshine that has beautifully weathered its cedar shake siding; the Tudor-style Countryside; the contemporary and roomy townhouse suites; the charming Woodside which offers maximum privacy and a honeymoon suite (for an additional amount); and the beautifully redecorated main lodge with easy access to the restaurant and bar and other amenities. Original artworks from local fine artists decorate the main lodge, as well as the lovely and expansive grounds & gardens of The Interlaken Inn.
For more information on The Interlaken Inn’s packages, or to make reservations, call 800-222-2909 / 860-435-9878 or check web site www.interlakeninn.com. Packages are subject to availability.
Interlaken Inn Resort
The Interlaken Inn Resort is located in historic Litchfield County, Connecticut, in the foothills of The Berkshires between two picturesque lakes. The property offers 80 first-class guestrooms, banquet & private dining rooms, and award-winning cuisine in Morgan’s restaurant.
The Interlaken Inn features extensive resort, meeting, recreation and fitness facilities. It is located adjacent to Hotchkiss Golf Course, which is recognized as one of Connecticut's most scenic and challenging courses, and near Route 7, Connecticut's renowned antique route. The resort offers a host of leisure activities available on property or nearby, including, tennis, volleyball, basketball, swimming, canoeing and boating, fishing, hiking/biking/walking paths, executive ropes course, golfing, caving, skiing & snowshoeing in season, and much more. Renowned cultural and entertainment opportunities abound. The Berkshires, Litchfield County and the Hudson River Valley are renowned for superb dance, theater, and music festivals.
The Interlaken Inn is 100 miles directly north of New York City on Rt. 112 (Interlaken Road) in Lakeville, Connecticut. Recently the historic property completed an extensive renovation of all its facilities, including its century-old original Victorian building. For more information on The Interlaken Inn Resort, visit www.interlakeninn.com.
LITCHFIELD HILLS
Old Riverton Inn Romantic Overnight
The innkeepers love lovers at the Old Riverton Inn, a country classic dating to 1796. Their romance package includes cozy accommodations complete with flowers, candy and a split of champagne, a candlelight dinner for two and full breakfast in the morning. From $195 to $215.
For more information, call 800-EST-1796, or check web site www.rivertoninn.com..
MYSTIC
Mystic Arts Center --- Where Something is Always Happening
For more information and hours, contact the Mystic Arts Center, 9 Water Street, Mystic, CT 06355; 860-536-7601 or check web site www.mysticarts.org
The Mystic Arts Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting creativity, culture and community. Located at 9 Water Street in Mystic, the Center offers art classes for all ages, rotating gallery exhibitions, and a permanent collection. Galleries are open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and are open to the public.
Events & Happenings
Save the date for the next Artini Hour:
August 26 with Jennifer Wheeler
Don't have time for a weekly class? There's still room in the following workshops:
· Night & Day: Plein Air Workshops with Paula Bradley, August 2-4
Please call 860.536.7601 x213 or email studio@mysticarts.org if you have questions.
Summer Art Camps
For ages 4 - 18
Immersive week-long experiences in the arts will nurture your child's creative side, from classes in Abstract Expressionism to ancient Mexican architecture. Register three weeks in advance for a substantial discount on tuition! Registration is ongoing but camps are filling fast! Call today to reserve a spot for your child.
Please call 860.536.7601 x213 or email studio@mysticarts.org if you have questions.
ARE YOU A FRIEND? If you use Facebook, we welcome you to become a fan and receive reminders about upcoming exhibitions and programs. You can visit our page here and be sure to tell your friends about us!
Mystic Arts Center is located at 9 Water Street
Mystic, CT 06355
860.536-7601
Open Daily
11 am - 5 pm
New Art Featured in the Mystic Stroll
Every “First Thursday,” join seven downtown galleries for a free opening to view new artwork. All galleries are within several blocks of each other and are easily identified by large balloons and maps located at each location. Wine and hors d’oeuvres are served.
Featured Galleries:
Finer Line Gallery: Opens an exhibit by artist Janice DiBattista, who is known for her dynamic brushstrokes and vividly colored paintings of flowers and landscapes. Open daily at 48 W. Main Street. 860-536-8339 www.finerlinegallery.com
Mystic Arts Center: Get a sneak peek at the annual children’s exhibition, Young at Art, featuring sculpture, paintings and drawings by over 600 young local artists ages 2 – 18. Open daily at 9 Water Street. 860-536-7601 www.mysticarts.org
Emporium Gallery: Featuring an array of artwork by members of the Ninigret Art Guild of Charlestown, RI. Open daily at 15 Water Street. 860-536-3891
The Courtyard Gallery: Hosts Love is in the Art, by the esteemed Courtyard Society of Painters and Sculptors. Open Daily at 12 Water Street in Factory Square. 860-536-5059 www.courtyardgallerymystic.com
Trade Winds Gallery: Established in 1974, the gallery showcases original works of art from over a dozen well known local and regional artists and carries a growing selection of original antique maps and prints. 42 West Main St. 860-536-0119 www.tradewindsgallery.net.
Courtyard Gallery on Main: Showcasing Portraits of the Divine Feminine featuring sculptor Renee Rhodes and renowned painter Christopher Zhang Painter. Open daily at 9 West Main Street. www.courtyardgallerymystic.com 860-536-5059
The Hollow Art and Antique Gallery: Featuring original artwork, unique antiques and jewelry. Champagne and chocolates will be served during the stroll. Open daily at 12 Water Street. 860-572-9704.
For further information, please call 860-536-7601x203 or visit www.artsinmystic.com.
MAC's Art Blast
Children's Studio Series, Monday Afterschool ArtShops, & Vacation Day Art Workshops
Get your child involved in the arts early and often with these exciting classes and workshops. Whether you are looking for an after school opportunity, a vacation day alternative, or a more extensive weekly class setting, MAC has a variety of options available to you to help tap into the creativity and passion of your child.
Registration is open for our Winter offerings. Feel free to contact Sica Neilsen at 860-536-7601 xt213 or e-mail sica.nielsen@mysticarts.org with any questions you may have or to register your budding artist today!
Announcing a new opportunity: Open Studios: Mondays, 1 to 4pm
Can't find space at home to do your art? Join the Mystic Arts Center for Open Studios! You bring the medium, the Center provide the space. No reservations necessary - just drop in, set up your materials and enjoy working in two studio spaces. Easels, tables, lighting and chairs are provided. All 2-dimensional media and select sculpting media are welcome (oderless turpentine only, please).
Featured Galleries:
Mystic Arts Center: Open daily at 9 Water Street. 860-536-7601 www.mysticarts.org
The Hollow Art and Antique Gallery: Open daily at 12 Water Street. 860-572-9704.
The Courtyard Gallery: Open daily at Water Street. 860-536-5059. www.courtyardgallerymystic.com
For further information, please call 860-536-7601x203 or visit www.artsinmystic.com.
NEW LONDON
More soon
SOUTHBURY
Heritage Resort/Spa Getaway
Everyone deserves a little pampering after battling winter winds. At the Heritage Resort in Southbury couples can enjoy a deluxe room and full breakfast, as well as an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, and a choice of two treatments at the Tres Jolie Day Spa, a massage, facial, manicure or pedicure, from $329. Not into spas? Chose a Rendezvous for two package with a deluxe room, dinner in the resort’s Eight Mile Brook, restaurant, a buffet breakfast and use of the resort health club starting at $219.
For more information, call 203-264-8200; or check web site www.heritagesouthbury.com
UNCASVILLE
Mohegan Sun’s “Suitest Offer” Just Got Sweeter -- Upgrade to a plush hotel suite for the lowest available nightly published rate when booked two weeks in advance
Mohegan Sun is making it easier for everyone to live like a VIP with the Suitest Offer. New and improved, guests can now upgrade their room reservation to a luxurious one-bedroom Cove Suite for the lowest available published nightly rate when they book at least two weeks in advance.
By planning ahead, guests can take advantage of the finest accommodations Mohegan Sun has to offer at an amazingly-reduced price. Mohegan Sun’s Cove Suites are over 800 square feet and feature a bedroom, separate living area with sofa bed, refreshment center and one and a half bathrooms. The master bath features a separate bathtub and large shower, for the ultimate in pampering.
To take advantage of this offer, please call reservations at 1.888.777.7922 and mention code TADV09.
If a standard room is plenty of space, Mohegan Sun’s Reserve Early and Save program also rewards guests who book ahead with $50.00 off the nightly rate of any standard room when making a reservation at least two weeks in advance. To book with the Reserve Early and Save program, please call reservations at 1.888.777.7922 and mention code TADV09.
Full payment is required at the time of booking and offers are non-refundable. Other restrictions may apply. Offers are valid Sunday through Thursday and not valid on packages. For more information, visit mohegansun.com/special-packages.
Mohegan Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribe, is one of the largest, most distinctive and spectacular entertainment, gaming, shopping and meeting destinations in the United States. Situated on 240 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com.
WATERBURY
Mattatuck Museum Unveils $2 Million History Exhibit
From Colonial times to the age of technology, past and present come alive in the new $2 million exhibit Coming Home: Building Community in a Changing World, opened at the Mattatuck Museum Arts and History Center in Waterbury, Connecticut on May 9.
The exhibit tells the story of all the people of Waterbury, the original settlers, those who built the city into an industrial giant, and the residents who continue to shape the town today.
Interactive experiences challenge visitors to get involved in learning about the region’s history. Build Your Own Village is a chance to relive the experience of early pioneers. The story of African Americans in early Connecticut is made personal by following the fortunes of one slave named Fortune. The city’s glory years in the Industrial era when Waterbury was known as “Brass Capital of the World” are vividly recalled and a button industry exhibit shows what it took to turn out a button in 30 seconds. More Waterbury products from the museum’s collections are shown than ever before.
The years from 1960 to 2010 focus on new immigrants to the region and the growing service economy, showing how current businesses evolved from the old industrial economy. The actual stories of recent immigrants also are told. The final section, a Community Conversations Table, invites visitors to take a stand on current issues facing the region today. They can run for election by building a platform based on materials in the exhibits, and find out whether they win based on the votes of other visitors.
The Mattatuck Museum, located at 144 West Main Street in Waterbury, is the only museum in Connecticut dedicated to the art and history of the state. Along with the comprehensive new history exhibit, the museum features a permanent gallery of work by Connecticut artists including early artists like John Trumbull and Frederic Church and later masters including Yves Tanguy, Alexander Calder and Arshile Gorky. Another permanent feature is a button room displaying some ten thousand buttons, a donation of the Waterbury Companies, successor to a company that has been making buttons in Waterbury since 1812.
Museum hours are Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. For information, phone 203-753-0381 or web site, www.mattatuckmuseum.org.
For further information on the museum and other area activities and a free copy
of UNWIND, a 112-page color guide to lodging, dining and all the attractions in the
Litchfield Hills of Northwest Connecticut, contact the Northwest Connecticut Convention and Visitors Bureau, PO Box 968, Litchfield, CT 06759, (860) 567-4506, or visit www.litchfieldhills.com.