February 12, 2008

Harlem Rockets Comedy Basketball @ DHS

On Saturday, March 1st, be prepared to witness some incredible talent, amazing showmanship, and all-out silliness as the Harlem Rockets come to challenge the Darien All-Stars Basketball Team to a duel. And a challenge it will surely be! But check out the formidable lineup that will be representing our town: Middlesex Middle School teachers Steve Dunn, Marc Power, George Taylor, Russ Caruso, Bryan Rickert, Sarah Hathaway, Alyson Spencer, and Phil Kennan and The Depot's Tommy Toledo, Mike Mosca, Phil Winter, David Bushing, Matt Miceli, and John Miceli.

Support members of our community as they battle it out with former college and professional basketball players for the title, and make it a night out for the entire family!

The event takes place at Darien High School Main Gym, and show time begins at 6pm. Tickets are $12 per person and are available at the Middlesex Message Center, The Depot, and Barrett Bookstore.

Posted by EricaB at 11:23 AM | Comments (0)

November 20, 2007

Thanksgiving Day Football Fever

Admit it. Even with all of the turkey, mashed potatoes, cornbread, cranberry sauce, and stuffing you'll get to eat this Thanksgiving, the thing you are most looking forward to on Thursday is your chance to watch football for 12 guilt-free hours. My recommendations for making the most of this football & food marathon:

Throw the bird in the oven and make your way to Darien High School to see the Blue Wave take on New Canaan at 10:30am. Be home by 1:00pm to peel potatoes and catch the Green Bay Packers against the Detroit Lions on FOX. Take a quick dinner break before you settle in for the New York Jets vs. Dallas Cowboys match-up on CBS at 4:15pm. While everyone else makes a beeline for the pumpkin pie and settles in for a tryptophan-inspired nap, guard your claim over the tv remote control. College football will be in full swing with a crunch-time game between USC and Arizona; kickoff is at 8:00pm on ESPN. Plus, the Indianapolis Colts work off their Thanksgiving dinner against the Atlanta Falcons at 8:15pm on the NFL Network.

Still need to research your Fantasy Football team before the big day? Check out this week's Sports Illustrated Start'Em and Sit'Em picks using the Darien Library's Research Resources webpage, where you can access our full list of magazines & journals. If you're researching from home, just make sure to have your library card handy for log-in.

Don't miss the kickoff, and happy Thanksgiving!

Posted by EricaB at 05:21 PM | Comments (0)

November 19, 2007

Christmas Tree Lighting this Sunday

Santa Claus is coming to town! The Darien Chamber of Commerce will sponsor the Darien Downtown Family Tree Lighting Ceremony this Sunday, November 25th, at Darien Sport Shop's "Big Tree." The hour-long festivities begin with Santa's arrival at 5pm. Come and enjoy the beginning of this holiday season, and check out all of the Christmas fun to be had:

Candy canes provided by Community Fund of Darien
Caroling led by Darien High School Tudor Singers
Glow sticks provided for the children by the Darien Chamber of Commerce
Hot cocoa and donuts provided by Darien Doughnut and served by Kiwanis
"Big Tree" lighting display courtesy of the Darien Sport Shop

Hope to see you there!

Posted by EricaB at 06:22 PM | Comments (0)

September 12, 2007

Darien Farmers Market open until Mid-December

Wednesday is the day for the Darien farmers market, open this year until mid-December. Corn, tomatoes, peaches, apples, raspberries.... yum! The friendly Connecticut farmers also have homemade pies and breads. Located behind the Darien Fire House, and open from 11- 6 every Wednesday. For information on the farmers markets in other Fairfield County locations, check out the Department of Agriculture's website.

Posted by louise at 04:38 PM | Comments (1)

July 19, 2007

New location for tonight's jazz concert

Since tonight's stormy weather isn't ideal for an outdoor concert, the DRI Jazz Concert featuring Low Tide Lingo has been moved to Town Hall Auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m.

Posted by EmilyW at 12:57 PM | Comments (0)

July 06, 2007

The celebration continues!

If you didn't celebrate enough on our rainy 4th of July, you have another chance. The Darien Days carnival is at the Hindley School until tomorrow night. Enjoy games, rides, live music, amusements, and of course food! For more info, click here.

Posted by EmilyW at 04:56 PM | Comments (0)

July 03, 2007

Celebrate the 4th of July!

The 4th of July is almost here. To celebrate, the YWCA of Darien/Norwalk is holding its third annual push and pull parade. The parade begins at Goodwives Shopping Center at 10 a.m. and will make its way to Tilley Pond Park where there will be lots of great activities. For more info, visit the Community Calendar.

Also, if you feel the 4th of July is not complete without fireworks, check this list of fireworks displays in Fairfield County.

Every 4th of July, I reread the Declaration of Independence. Click here to visit the National Archives' online Declaration of Independence exhibit.

Posted by EmilyW at 11:37 AM | Comments (0)

May 15, 2007

A chance to help others

This week, the Library is holding its second "Food for Fines" event. The Library will waive overdue fines for patrons who bring in non-perishable food items for the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County. The Food Bank provides food to 115 charities and distribution sites serving people in need.

The Library will waive the first $10 of overdue fines for each box or can of food and $5 for each additional item. Please note that the Food Bank especially needs "Latchkey kid friendly" foods right now because they are preparing for increased need from families during the upcoming school vacation. Kid friendly foods include peanut butter, grape jelly, juices, breakfast cereal, mac and cheese, and canned pasta (ie Chef Boyardee).

For an interesting perspective on food insecurity in the U.S. read this article about the Governor of Oregon's attempt to live on $3 a day in grocery money.

Posted by EmilyW at 08:30 AM | Comments (0)

May 12, 2007

Learn about global warming at the Library

Seen the movie? Heard about it on the news? Want to understand more?

Come learn about Climate Change & what you can do about it.

The Darien Environmental Group is pleased to host an evening workshop to learn about the science of global warming, the consequences of climate change, and strategies for a “Carbon-neutral Lifestyle”.

The workshop will be led by Barbara Deutsch, a landscape architect who has worked on re-greening cities from Hong Kong to Washington, DC. Barbara was selected by The Climate Project to be one of 1,000 people trained by Al Gore to give the powerpoint presentation on global warming shown in the Academy Award-winning movie “An Inconvenient Truth”.

The interactive workshop will include the updated powerpoint presentation, a new module with strategies for what you can do to make a difference, and an opportunity for discussion.

So don’t be overwhelmed-- bring your questions and get started. We hope to see you there.

Monday, May 14
6:30 - 8:30pm
Darien Library

Submitted by Dot Kelly

Posted by EmilyW at 02:01 PM | Comments (0)

May 07, 2007

Congressman Shays visits Darien

On Friday, Congressman Chris Shays visited the Darien Library to meet constituents and discuss current issues. Approximately 50 citizens met him in the Library's program room. Jim Cameron taped the event for TV 79.

Congressman Shays began by saying he wanted to talk about Iraq, Islamist terrorism, global warming, and the environment. He then asked the audience what else they would like to talk about. They quickly reponded with: FAA, federal flooding assistance, immigration, how Congress sets priorities, transportation, taxes, the Broadwater LNG project and challenges facing the state. Over the next hour and a half, they engaged in honest discussion of the issues. Here are a few highlights:

First Selectwoman Klein and several residents explained their concerns about flooding and briefed the Congressman on the current state of the town.

The audience wanted to know what Congressman Shays is doing about the FAA's plan to alter flight paths. The Congressman explained that he is working with the chair of the Transportation Committee's Aviation subcommittee on the flight path issue because currently there is no requirement that FAA provide noise mitigation to affected communities.

In the area of global warming, the Congressman emphasized the need to increase CAFE standards. He also explained that Connecticut residents need to have an honest discussion about energy.

By far the most contentious issue was Iraq. Audience members held many different opinions about whether and when the U.S. should withdraw its troops. The Congressman explained that we have a moral obligation to the Iraqis and any timelines should be based on the capability of Iraqis to be fully trained.

For complete coverage of the Congressman's visit, watch TV 79 at 6:45 a.m, 1 p.m., or 12:45 a.m.

Posted by EmilyW at 02:38 PM | Comments (0)

March 30, 2007

April Friendly Connections Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Thursday, April 5th at 11 a.m.
Paranormal Phenomenon: Philip Imbrogno is a staff member at the McCarthy Observatory in New Milford, CT and has been a science educator for over 26 years. He has authored five published books on astronomy and his investigations into UFO and paranormal phenomenon. He holds degrees from the University of Texas, Northeastern University and M.I.T. Join Philip to hear about his investigations into the UFO and paranormal activity in and around mysterious stone chambers in New York’s Hudson River Valley .

Thursday, April 12th at 11 a.m.
Feng Shui: Elspeth Anne Beier has been studying and practicing Chinese philosophies for 30 years. She holds a three year degree in feng shui and has many, many years of training in this natural science. Join Elspeth to learn about the many facets of how important your environment is to your over all well-being and what you can do to improve the space that you live in. Your home is a reflection of who you are; as you evolve and change, so should your home. Find out more about how feng shui can move your life in a positive direction.

Wednesday, April 18th at 11 a.m.
Strauss’ Operettas: The operettas in Europe in the 19th century contain some of the happiest music ever written. UConn Stamford professor Dr. Jerry Sehulster returns to Friendly Connections to share a high spirited sampling of the operettas of Johann Strauss Jr. Operettas have been considered the precursor of the modern musical comedy, being much less serious and more comical than an opera. Strauss Jr. is the most significant composer of operetta in the German language. Join Jerry as he explores the life and music of Johann Strauss Jr.

Tuesday, April 24th at 2 p.m.
Comets, Meteors & Asteroids: Comets, meteors & asteroids are all the small pieces of rock and/or ice that aren’t part of a major planet. Join Todd Sullivan to learn the differences between these space rocks that orbit the sun and sometimes come close enough to Earth to be seen. Todd will continue unlocking the secrets of the Universe.

Thursday, April 26th at 11 a.m.
Nutrition Chat: Join Phyllis Herman, former Nutrition Consultant for the town of Greenwich, for the latest update in how to eat healthfully.

Wednesday, April 26th at 3 p.m.
Darien Chats: Join Darien resident Madeline Rosa to chat about what’s going on in Darien. Find out about local news and events and talk to other Darien residents about resources.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Posted by EmilyW at 04:35 PM | Comments (0)

March 06, 2007

Affordable Housing Forum

Saturday Morning Issues Forum:

Panel Discussion (with Q&A) on Affordable Housing in Darien.

Panelists will include members of the CT State Legislature, the Affordable Housing Action Collaborative (of Fairfield County) and the Darien Affordable Housing Advisory Commission.

All are welcome to attend and includes a Complimentary Continental Breakfast.

Saturday, March 17, 2007
Doors Open at 8 am
Panel Discussion 8:30 – 10 am
Upstairs at the Piedmont Club, 152 Hecker Avenue, Darien, CT

Sponsored by The Republican Club of Darien

Posted by EmilyW at 04:35 PM | Comments (0)

March 02, 2007

Friendly Connections Programs for March

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Wednesday, March 7th at 11 a.m.
Cross Country Travel: Join Gloria Eaton as she relives her trips across the U.S.A. from Martha’s Vineyard to San Diego and a few places in-between.

Wednesday, March 14th at 11 a.m.
Local Archaeology: Join Michael Wilson as he discusses archaeological findings unearthed in Connecticut. What does the archaeological evidence explain about the colonial African-American experience in Connecticut? Dig up Connecticut’s history with Michael.

Wednesday, March 21st at 4 p.m.
Leaf-Cutter Ants: Brian Morrissey is the project manager of the Leaf-Cutter Ant exhibit at The Central Park Zoo. Find out what it takes to design an exhibit which is home to 100,000 ants. Leaf-cutter ants are true farmers in that they cut and use leaves not as food, but as fertilizer to grow a unique fungus in their underground chambers. The fungus is their only food. Colonies in nature can number up to a million individuals, all born from a single queen. Learn more about these industrious creatures and the development of the new exhibit with Brian.

Tuesday, March 22nd at 2 p.m.
Sun-Earth-Moon Relationship: Todd Sullivan, NASA Ambassador and Fairfield Astronomical Society Member, joins us again to discuss the vital relationship the Earth has to its’ sun and moon.

Wednesday, March 28th at 11 a.m.
Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu, sometimes called the “Lost City of the Incas”, is a well-preserved pre-Columbian Inca ruin located on a mountain range in Peru. Join Janet Sweeting of the Peabody Museum of Natural History to learn more about this site believed to be a country retreat town for Inca nobility. Janet will discuss the temples, sanctuaries, parks and residences of the most popular tourist site in Peru.

Wednesday, March 28th at 3 p.m.
Darien Chats: Join Inta Adams, Friendly Visitor Coordinator from the Darien Department of Social Services, to chat about what’s going on in Darien. Find out about local news and events and talk to other Darien residents about resources.

Thursday, March 29th at 11 a.m.
ABC Radio: Victor Rubell has been in broadcasting since 1964 when he was newswriter/reporter/anchor for WSTC radio in Stamford. From 1970 until 1981 he was a producer/writer for ABC radio network news in NYC and covered the early space shuttle launches, the 1972 democratic national convention in Miami Beach, and the Vietnam War. Victor worked with well known broadcasters such as Bill Beutel, Ted Koppel and Peter Jennings. He worked in a 7day/24 hour cycle and this enabled him to be part of history that saw the assassination attempts on George Wallace, Gerald Ford, the Watergate scandal an resignation of Richard Nixon as well as the end of the Vietnam War.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Submitted by Dawn White, Friendly Connections Program Coordinator

Posted by EmilyW at 04:50 PM | Comments (0)

February 05, 2007

February Friendly Connections Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Wednesday, February 7th at 11 a.m.
A Touch of Tiffany: Louis Comfort Tiffany was an American artist and designer who is best known for his work in stained glass and his association with the Art Nouveau and Aesthetic movements. Learn more about the history of the Tiffany family and their connections to Connecticut as well as the history behind the major pieces of Tiffany glass throughout homes and churches in the state with Paul Petrushois. Paul is a stained glass restorer and Tiffany buff who works for ConneCTions Tours, a group known for their out of the ordinary tours in and around Connecticut.

Thursday, February 8th at 11 a.m.
Painterly Controversy: William Merritt Chase and Robert Henri are two of the most admired American artists and teachers of the popular turn-of-the-century period, yet few know of their stormy relationship. Their arguments over the nature and future of American art affected an entire generation of young artists. Join Elinor Appleton, volunteer curator of the Bruce Museum, to explore how the museum’s exhibit expresses the similarities and differences between the artists’ work.

Wednesday, February 14th at 11 a.m.
History of Aviation: Join Mike Speciale, executive director of the New England Air Museum, for a lively discussion about Connecticut’s role in the history of aviation. Connecticut was in the forefront of aviation since the advent of the hot air balloon in the 1700’s. The New England Air Museum’s mission is to preserve Connecticut’s rich aviation history which it is able to do through educational exhibits that showcase milestone artifacts in aviation history.

Wednesday, February 21st at 4 p.m.
Underwater Photography: Pierrette Wagner describes her underwater photography as “less artistry than it is bearing witness to nature’s miracles”. Pierrette has such passion for being able to capture these amazing images on her dives. She learned photography during her four year career as a professional diver in the Cayman Islands, a world-class dive destination. Pierrette loves the element of surprise in underwater photography; you never know exactly how a photo will come out.

Tuesday, February 27th at 2 p.m.
Life on Other Planets?: Some scientists believe that there is extraterrestrial life in our own solar system. Places such as Mars or Jupiter’s moon Europa, have been cited as possible places where bacteria could live. Join Todd Sullivan, NASA ambassador and Fairfield County Astronomical Society member to discuss the possibility of life in our solar system.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Posted by EmilyW at 11:12 AM | Comments (0)

February 02, 2007

An Inconvenient Truth

Tonight, come to Town Hall at 7 p.m. for a FREE showing of An Inconvenient Truth, Al Gore's documentary about global warming. After the movie, stay to listen to response by a global warming expert.

Even Punxsutawney Phil is talking about global warming. Come join the conversation tonight.

If you'd like to read more about global warming, take a look at the Darien Library's recommended reading list.

Sponsored by: Darien Board of Selectmen, Cherry Lawn Gardens, Friends of Goodwives River, Friends of Selleck's Wood/Dunlap Wood, Friends of Tilly's Pond, Friends of Woodland Park, The Darien Community Association, The Darien Environmental Group, The Darien Land Trust, The Darien Library, The Darien Nature Center, The Garden Club of Darien, and Save Darien Wetlands.

Posted by EmilyW at 10:42 AM | Comments (0)

January 03, 2007

Friendly Connections January Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Wednesday, January 3rd at 11 a.m.
Mozart’s Operas: Dr. Jerome R. Sehulster has written about opera and classical music for The Advocate/Greenwich Time since 1986, and has lectured about opera to area groups since 1985. Dr. Sehulster has taught psychology at UConn Stamford since 1975 and has offered courses on opera since 1998. Celebrate Mozart with Dr. Sehulster as he looks at the composer’s operas in context with his life, his times and the wok of his contemporaries. Dr. Sehulster will be exploring the life and works of Mozart from his time as a boy genius to his time as a master of genres.

Wednesday, January 10th at 11 a.m.
Climate Change: Scientists around the globe are noticing changes in the climate; the glaciers are melting, animals are migrating later and extreme weather events are happening more often. What does this mean to us and how can we make changes in our lives and communities to protect the environment? Join Kathy Rhodes from SoundWaters as she explores these questions and discusses climate change on both a local and global scale.

Wednesday, January 10th at 4 p.m.
Travel to Namibia: Namibia is home to the world’s oldest desert and is one of the most scarcely populated countries in the world. Travel through the rough, arid lands on Namibia with Deirdre Lewin and hear of her adventures in one of the most bio-diverse regions of the world.

Wednesday, January 17, 24 & 31 at 4 p.m.
Man and the Environment: Join Seymour Polansky as he discusses the impact man has had on the environment. This discussion goes beyond global warming and holes in the ozone. How much damage have we really done and is there a way of reversing it?

Wednesday, January 24th at 11 a.m.
Travel to Alaska: Join Sandra Bendfeldt as she takes us on a virtual cruise to Alaska, where wale watching and flight seeing are just the beginning.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Posted by EmilyW at 01:23 PM | Comments (0)

November 01, 2006

Friendly Connections November Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Wednesday, November 1st at 4 p.m.
Local Animals: Hannah Petri form the Darien Nature Center joins us to discuss the animals in our area, their habitats and their adaptation and survival skills.

Thursday, November 2nd at 11 a.m.
African Wild Dogs: The African Wild Dogs exhibit at the Bronx Zoo features approximately twenty of these exciting and active animals. Join Brian Morrissey, Project Manager and Designer for the Bronx Zoo and the Wildlife Conservation Society, to learn more about the social behaviors of these endangered pack animals, including pack hunting, pup rearing, playing and communicating. Brian will also discuss the animals’ role in the ecosystems of their home ranges and the Wildlife Conservation Society’s fieldwork pertaining to the wild dogs.

Monday, November 6th & 20th at 5:30 p.m.
Learn Italian: Catherine Codato was born in Italy and since coming to the States has taught Italian for Berlitz Translating Services, executives who travel overseas, and actresses and singers portraying Italians, and now for Friendly Connections. If you’ve ever wanted to learn this language, join us for free beginner’s lessons from the comfort of your own home!

Wednesday, November 8th at 11 a.m.
Knights of Columbus Museum: Join the Director of the museum, Larry Sowinski, to hear about two featured exhibits. The A Vatican Christmas exhibit, takes us through a Christmas celebration in Vatican City. Pope John Paul II was the first to implement nativity scenes at St. Peter’s Square in 1982, hear about this tradition he started. The Swiss Guard exhibit celebrates the 500 years of loyalty these men have served for the protection of the Pope.

Wednesday, November 15th at 11 a.m.
Envisioning Hatshepsut: On a trip to a San Francisco museum Stan Vogel was struck by the beauty and story of Hatshepsut, a very influential female pharaoh, and he felt like he had to sculpt her. Hatshepsut had the longest reign of all the female pharaohs, ruling for 15 years until her death in 1458 BC. She even dressed in the traditional garb of male kings; including a false beard. She was a master politician and an elegant stateswoman, but many of her monuments were destroyed after her death. Join Stan Vogel to learn about his journey in sculpting Hatshepsut.

Wednesday, November 29th at 11 a.m.
Writing the Column: We know Bernie Yudain as the bright and witty columnist that has been writing for the Greenwich Times for over 20 years. Now Bernie will be discussing not only what it is like to write his column in Greenwich, but he will give us insight on the other columnists for the Greenwich Times as well. What does it take to be a columnist in Greenwich, what are their muses and inspirations, and what makes them so compelling to read? Join Bernie as he discusses the columnists of Greenwich.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Posted by EmilyW at 01:19 PM | Comments (0)

October 19, 2006

DCA Energy Lecture Tonight

Tonight, Dr. Daniel Schrag from Harvard University will deliver a lecture on global warming, as part of the DCA's energy lecture series. The lecture will take place this evening, Thurs. Oct. 19 at 8 p.m. at the DCA, 274 Middlesex Road. Tickets are available at the door and are $15.

Posted by EmilyW at 09:27 AM | Comments (0)

October 05, 2006

Darien Commemorates Domestic Violence Awareness Month

This morning, Darien Domestic Violence Task Force members, Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) staff, elected officials, first responders, police, clergy, and community members gathered to observe the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Callie Sullivan, DVCC board member and Darien Domestic Violence Task Force member MC'd the event. First Selectwoman Evonne Klein read a proclamation, declaring October as Domestic Violence Month. State Senator Bob Duff stated that there must be zero tolerance for domestic violence in the community. Police Chief Duane Lovello reminded the audience that the police are committed to zero tolerance and provide specialized services for domestic violence survivors. DVCC executive director Barbara Heffernan stressed the need to reach people before incidents escalate and the importance of letting people know that safe places and resources are available.

At noon, Darien church bells rang 97 times, once for each domestic disturbance call that the Darien Police received this year. The number of calls has increased by 40% over last year. Callie Sullivan noted that calls have increased because people are more aware of the services the Police provide.

The Darien Police Department has two domestic violence liaisons who provide services to survivors. They are Officer Beth Berard and Officer Alison Hirsch. They may be contacted at 662-5327 or DVLiaison@darienct.gov.

Posted by EmilyW at 02:06 PM | Comments (0)

October 02, 2006

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

On Sunday, volunteers, including Darien Domestic Violence Task Force members and many First Responders, gathered to hang purple ribbons throughout town in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year, they hung 97 ribbons--each ribbon represents a domestic disturbance call to the Darien Police Department in FY 2005/2006.

This Thursday, October 5 at 11 a.m. at Town Hall, FIrst Selectwoman Evonne Klein will read a proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awarenss Month. Check the blog on Thursday for photos and coverage of this important event.

If you or someone you know is being abused, call the Domestic Violence Crisis Center at 1-800-774-2900.

Posted by EmilyW at 11:32 AM | Comments (0)

September 27, 2006

Friendly Connections October Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Wednesday, October 4th at 11 a.m.
Your Ancestry II: Bob Ferry returns to give us more insight and wisdom on ancestry.

Wednesday, October 11th at 11 a.m.
Daily Life in Ancient Egypt: Find out what daily life was like for Egyptians living from 4,500 BC to 640 AD. Learn about mummifying techniques, the use of make-up, and the religious practices of ancient Egyptians and how they changed over this long period. This rich and powerful culture is one of the oldest civilizations in the world and has intrigued archaeologists and average citizens alike for many years. Janet Sweeting of the Yale Peabody Museum will take us on a journey to this rich and complex culture currently on exhibit.

Thursday, October 12th at 11 a.m.
Dateline Behind the Scenes: Andrea Vaz was the Unit Manager orchestrating the camera crew for Dateline NBC. She worked on several big news stories, including the OJ Simpson murder case and the Oklahoma City bombing tragedy. Andrea will give us insight on how the news stories come together and will share anecdotes from the most exciting and nerve-racking moments of her career.

Wednesday, October 18th at 4 p.m.
Your Children Need to Know: Friendly Connections Program Manager, Lise Jameson, a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist, will be discussing how to talk to your children about your future plans.

Wednesday, October 25th at 11 a.m.
Medicare Part D: The next general enrollment period for Part D, during which people can choose or change plans, is November 15th through December 31, 2006. Plan choices made at that time will be effective January 1, 2007. Sam Deibler from the Greenwich Commission of Aging will explain the program and enrollment and answer your questions about Part D.

Thursday, October 26th at 11 a.m.
Jan van der Heyden: Jan van der Heyden was the greatest painter of cityscapes in the Golden Era of Dutch painting as well as the first artist to paint these architectural details. In addition to cityscapes and still-lifes, he also designed streetlights and fire engines and is credited with inventing the fire hose. Join Elinor Appleton, volunteer curator for the Bruce Museum to learn more about this artist currently on exhibition.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128.

Posted by EmilyW at 06:15 PM | Comments (0)

September 21, 2006

Mothers of Preschoolers Unite

The Darien chapter of Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS), an international support network of women who have children from infancy to kindergarten, invites area women to join them every other Wednesday, from 9:15 AM to 11:30AM, starting October 4th at St Paul’s Church, 471 Mansfield Avenue in Darien. MOPS is a dynamic program designed to nurture mothers as they establish relationships together in small groups while their children are pampered in a caring atmosphere.

Mothers share and interact with mentors and moms who teach meaningful ways to fulfill the varied roles of wife, mother, and woman. After each session, participants break into discussion groups and are then encouraged to join in a creative activity or craft.

For further information or to sign up contact the church office at 655-8773 or visit the web at www.stpaulsdarien.org.

Posted by EmilyW at 04:38 PM | Comments (0)

September 11, 2006

Choices, Choices

If you serve on a nonprofit board, you really need to attend the program on Thursday, September 14, at 7:30 pm at the Library on Corporate Governance for Nonprofits. But if you're an RTM member, you need to attend the information meeting on the Health District proposal in Town Hall (room 206, at 8:15 pm). Tough choice if you're both an RTM member and serve on a nonprofit board! If you're not on the RTM and want to study the information on the health district, stop by the Information Desk and ask for the RTM packet. The RTM will discuss and take action on the Health District proposal on Monday September 25.

Posted by louise at 06:37 PM | Comments (0)

September 07, 2006

September Friendly Connections Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Thursday, September 14th at 11 a.m.
The Civil War in Fairfield County: Blaikie Hines is a passionate Civil War historian and artist who inherited a large Civil War collection from his father. Blaikie will join us to discuss the characters and occupations of the men who lived in Fairfield County in the mid 19th century. What happened to them during the largest catastrophe to affect America? As both a native of Darien and the author of the book Civil War Volunteer Sons of Connecticut, Blaikie speaks with knowledge and authority on the subject. Join us to hear more about Fairfield County’s role in the Civil war.

Wednesday, September 20th 11 a.m.
Beekeeping in Iraq: Andrew Cote has taught beekeeping to the Kurdish minority in northern Iraq. Before the 1990 war there were 500,000 beehives in Iraq, now there are only 20,000. One of the reasons is because oil fields set ablaze had poisoned the air and killed many honey bees across the country. Without honey bees there is less pollination. Without pollination there is less food. Join us to learn more about beekeeping and Andrew’s travels.

Wednesday, September 27th at 11 a.m.
Radio Advertising: Before John Franklin became a regular voice on Friendly Connections’ Current Events group, he was the president and CEO of various advertising and communications groups for radio, television and theater. John has won many advertising awards including the prestigious CLIO award. Join John to hear more about radio advertising.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Submitted by Dawn White, Friendly Connections Program Coordinator

Posted by EmilyW at 04:28 PM | Comments (0)

August 31, 2006

The first day of school

is here already. The Darien Public Schools website is the place to go for the school calendar, bus schedules, and of course, lunch menus.

Posted by EmilyW at 12:03 PM | Comments (0)

August 02, 2006

August Friendly Connections Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Wednesday, August 2nd 11 a.m.
Lighthouse Cruise: Sound Navigation is the premier provider of lighthouse cruises on Western Long Island Sound. Join Barry Natale as he takes us on a virtual cruise of several lighthouses, including the Sheffield Island and Huntington Harbor Lighthouses.

Wednesday, August 9th at 11 a.m.
Astronomy: Join Greenwich High School Astronomy teacher, Dr. Joseph Wesney, as he takes us into orbit. Explore our universe, from our very own solar system and Milky Way galaxy to the nebulas and galaxies hundreds of light years away.

Wednesdays at 4 p.m. in August, starting August 9th
Islam: Immunization Against Conflict: Seymour Polansky returns to further discuss this fascinating religion with participants. Seymour is currently writing a book on the subject and his breadth of knowledge on the subject is astounding.

Thursday, August 17th at 11 a.m.
John Twachtman – A Painter’s Painter: John Twachtman (1853 – 1902) was an American Impressionist painter who was born in Cincinnati, trained in both Munich and Paris, and settled in Connecticut in 1888 where the core of his work was executed. He was influences by a variety of artists including Whistler and Monet. Join Heather Cotter of the Greenwich Historical Society to hear more about this fascinating artist.

Wednesday, August 23rd at 11 a.m.
Tsunamis: On December 26th, 2004 an earthquake off the western coast of northern Sumatra triggered the most destructive tsunami in recorded history, killing approximately 230,000 people. Januka Attanayake was in his senior year of college in his native home of Sri Lanka when this devastating tsunami hit the shore. Januka describes the event as the “most terrifying experience of his life.” Currently a graduate student at the University of Connecticut, he studies earthquakes and tsunamis in the geophysics department there.

Thursday, August 24th at 11 a.m.
Osborne Homestead Museum: This museum was the home of Frances Osborne Kellogg, an accomplished business-woman and conversationalist who was dedicated to preserving land for future generations. This house was originally built in the mid 1800’s and has been recently restored to display the original contents of the estate, which includes a significant collection of antiques and fine arts. Join Christiana Soares Jones from the Connecticut DEP’s Kellogg Environmental Center to learn more about the role of women in history, what life was like in the early 1900’s and the connections between agriculture and the environment.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Submitted by Dawn White, Friendly Connections Program Coordinator

Posted by EmilyW at 04:15 PM | Comments (0)

June 30, 2006

Happy Fourth of July!

The Fourth of July weekend is upon us and Darien will celebrate with a Push and Pull Parade on the 4th and a carnival next weekend. Darien residents can also view the fireworks displays in neighboring towns. Click here for a list of fireworks locations.

As we celebrate our nation's birthday, take a moment to view this rough draft of the Declaration of Independence.

Posted by EmilyW at 10:13 AM

June 05, 2006

June Friendly Connections Programs

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home. On average we hold four groups a day over the telephone. Our regular groups range from fun activities such as bingo and trivia, to discussion groups such as current events and book groups, and to support groups including a group for seniors recovering from drugs and/or alcohol, a group for caregivers, and a group for people experiencing vision loss. No special equipment is needed to join a telephone group or class.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Every Wednesday in June at 11 a.m.
Kenya: Join Dawn White as she takes us on a journey through Kenya. This diverse country is made up of over 70 tribes that speak over 30 distinct languages. Dawn takes us from the spacious mansions of Nairobi’s wealthy suburbs to the dung huts of the pastoralist Samburu, and places in-between.

Thursday, June 8th at 11 a.m.
Sergeant Mike Returns: Sergeant Mike Blount is rejoining Friendly Connections to continue to tell our listeners tales about being stationed in Iraq. Mike shares his experiences with a refreshing blend of truth and wit and his insights on the war and the daily lives of the Iraqi people are eye-opening.

Thursday, June 9th at 4 p.m.
Sleep Disorders: Do you have trouble sleeping at night? Do you toss and turn and find it hard to relax? If so you may have a sleep disorder. Join Dr. Saul Rothenberg as he discusses the causes, symptoms and treatments for common sleep disorders.

Wednesday, June 21st at 4 p.m.
Prescription Drug Costs: Join pharmacist Glen Taylor as he answers questions and shares information about medication concerns and the high cost of prescription drugs.

Thursday, June 22nd at 11 a.m.
Stamford Theater Works: Come behind the scenes as Steve Karp, producing director and founder of Stamford Theater Works gives us back-stage passes to STW’s recent productions: the play A Picasso and the musical revue Tin Pan Alley. Learn how Pablo Picasso was arrested and interrogated by the Nazi’s in Paris in 1941, then sit back and relax as you hear how America’s greatest composers began, and where America’s popular music was born.

Wednesday, June 28th at 4 p.m.
Working with Blind Musicians: Join David Goldstein to listen to heart-warming stories about and beautiful recording from, blind college-bound musicians from the Music and Art Center for Humanity.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Posted by EmilyW at 12:13 PM

April 24, 2006

Friendly Connections Offers Activities to Seniors

Friendly Connections, a program of Family Centers, offers comprehensive support and wellness services to seniors living in lower Fairfield County. We provide outreach activities to help stimulate seniors’ minds and connect them to the community. Friendly Connections’ groups and classes are held exclusively over the telephone to allow seniors to enjoy them from the comfort of home.

Upcoming Friendly Connections classes include:

Thursday, April 27th at 11 a.m.
Travel to Jordan: From the giant red mountains and vast mausoleums of the ancient city of Petra to the therapeutic water of the Dead Sea, Jordan is a country full of history and culture. Join Jennifer Wilensky as she relives her trip to this vibrant country.

Thursday, May 4th at 11 a.m.
Sergeant Mike in Iraq: Michael E. Blount, SFC, U.S. Army arrived in Iraq in October of 2004 and spent a year stationed in Fallujah. Find out what life in Iraq is really like for men, women and children and what they actually think about American soldiers in their country.

Wednesdays in May at 11 a.m. starting May 10th
Islam: Immunization Against Conflict: Join Friendly Connections’ Seymour Polansky and find out the history behind this fascinating religion and re-examine your own perceptions about what it means to be Muslim in the 21st Century.

Wednesday, May 17th at 1 p.m.
Resources for Seniors: Join Ilene Sumberg, LCSW as she reveals area resources for senior citizens and explains how and why you should take advantage of them.

Thursday, May 25th at 11 a.m.
Gomez Mill House: The Gomez Mill House, located in Marbloro, NY, is the oldest surviving Jewish homestead in North America. The house accommodated a variety of occupants, including a patriot of the American Revolution and an artisan who resurrected the art of handmade paper in America. Learn more about the history of this unique house with Ruth Abrahams.

Wednesday, May 31st at 11 a.m.
Learning to Paint: Join Shirley Jankowich as she teaches Friendly Connections how to paint with water colors. This class will be continuing throughout June and will end with an art show displaying paintings made by participants.

In addition to the numerous telephone groups and classes accessed by hundreds of seniors, Friendly Connections also provides one-on-one companionship and support to homebound seniors through its Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs. For more information, call 203-656-1128 or visit http://familycenters.org/seniors.html.

Submitted by Dawn White, Friendly Connections Program Coordinator

Posted by EmilyW at 04:25 PM

January 26, 2006

Darien League of Women Voters Presents

Affordable Housing: An Informational Series

Program 2: Economic Issues & Community Response Wednesday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Darien Community Association

• Andrew McDonald - State Senator, Darien/Stamford
• Joe McGee – The Business Council of Fairfield County: The interrelationship among transportation, housing and economic development
• T.R. Rowe – Connecticut State Assembly Representative, Trumbull; A Case History: A Town Takes Charge
• Evonne Klein - Darien First Selectwoman

Enid Oresman - Moderator

Program 3: Bricks & Mortar: Alternatives Monday, February 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Darien Community Association.

• David Fink – Partnership for Strong Communities; examples of affordable, green architecture
• Wilder Gleason- Darien land use attorney: What works here?

Kiki Karpen, Moderator

Co-Sponsored by:
Darien United Way, Darien Community Association, Darien Clergy Association

Submitted by Enid Oresman

Posted by EmilyW at 09:26 AM

January 13, 2006

Congressman Shays to speak at the Darien Library

Congressman Christopher Shays will hold a community meeting for Darien residents at the Darien Library next Saturday, January 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Posted by EmilyW at 10:27 AM

January 04, 2006

Former CIA Director James Woolsey to speak at the DCA

As part of the Darien Community Association’s series of talks on solving our energy problem, former CIA Director James Woolsey will speak about “Opportunities for Transportation and National Security” on Thursday, January 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the Community Center at the DCA, 274 Middlesex Road.

“Solutions for Oil Security” is the theme of the second lecture of a four-part series on the national energy problem sponsored by the Community Center of the DCA. The talk will focus on the issue of security and dependence on the Middle East for oil, primarily for transportation. Mr. Woolsey will discuss alternate fuels and other readily adoptable measures that can significantly reduce our use of oil.

Mr. Woolsey currently serves as Vice President of Booz Allen Hamilton, in the company’s Global Resilience practice in McLean, Virginia. He chairs the advisory board of the Clean Fuels Foundation and New Uses Council as well as the National Commission on Energy Policy. Woolsey is also a trustee of the Center for Strategic & International Studies. He has served on a number of key Presidential Commissions on terrorism and national defense during his twelve years of government service in both Republican and Democratic administrations.

Reservations are required for the event. Tickets are $15. Please call Connie Bergen at the DCA at 655-9050 to reserve a ticket.

Submitted by the Darien Community Association.

If you would like more information on this topic, click here for a list of books and websites recommended by Mary Freedman, Darien Library’s Head of Information Services.

Posted by EmilyW at 04:41 PM

January 02, 2006

Darien Library Public Hearing

On Wednesday evening, January 18th at 7:30 p.m., we will hold a public hearing on our budget proposal for the 2006-2007 fiscal year. At the same session, we will provide up-to-date information about the new building project. The hearing will be held in the Community Room at the Library.

During the budget hearing, we will provide in-depth information about our budget, which we will be presenting to the Board of Selectmen the next week, on January 26. This will be the Library's first such public hearing, and we are hoping to get lots of questions and suggestions.

Also on January 18th, we will present an overview of the status of our new building plans, including progress in receiving approvals, the schedule for groundbreaking, construction and completion, and a view of our plans. Please be there so we can keep you updated on our progress, and answer your questions.

Posted by EmilyW at 04:20 PM

Darien LWV Presents Affordable Housing: An Informational Series

Click here to view the flyer. Adobe Reader required.

Program I: State Statutes and Local Applications Thursday January 5, 2005 at 7:30 pm at Darien Community Association, 274 Middlesex Road

• Bob Duff - State Senator, Norwalk and Darien
• Timothy Hollister – Attorney with Shipman and Goodwin, expert in Connecticut Affordable Housing Appeals Act (8-30g)
• Carol Davis – Urban Planner, former Darien P&Z member: Historical Perspective
• Anne Lynn – Darien Housing Commission

Kiki Karpen – Moderator

Program 2: Economic Issues & Community Response Wednesday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Darien Community Association

• Joe McGee – The Business Council of Fairfield County
• T.R. Rowe – Connecticut General Assembly Representative, Trumbull A Case History: A Town Takes Charge

Enid Oresman - Moderator

Program 3: Bricks & Mortar: Alternatives To be rescheduled

• David Fink – Partnership for Strong Communities; examples of affordable, green architecture
• Evonne Klein - First Selectman, The town’s perspective

Co-Sponsored by:
Darien United Way, Darien Community Association, Darien Clergy Association

Submitted by Anne Lynn

Posted by EmilyW at 01:27 PM

December 15, 2005

St. Luke's Parish Christmas Pageant

Saint Luke's Parish will hold its Christmas pageant this Sunday, December 18 at 4 p.m. Everyone is invited. Saint Luke's Parish is located at 1864 Post Road in Darien.

Submitted by Molly Johnson.

Posted by EmilyW at 03:48 PM

December 13, 2005

Volunteering Opportunity

Darien residents Randi-Jean G. Hedin and Laura Jachino, and Kathleen K. Lundquist, President of Darien-headquartered company, APT, diligently serve as volunteers on the board of The Volunteer Center of Southwestern Fairfield County (TVC).

Ms. Hedin, Chairman of the Board since June 2004, is Partner in Kelley Drye & Warren's Stamford Office.
Ms. Jachino is Manager of Corporate Giving for The Thomson Corporation where she runs the Corporation's strategic giving program. APT's Dr. Lundquist is a nationally recognized expert in organizational psychology. Her Darien-headquartered company is an HR consulting firm.

The Volunteer Center serves nonprofit organizations, employers and individuals in the towns of Darien, New Canaan, Greenwich and Stamford.

If you are interested in volunteering in your Darien community, find an opportunity just right for you. Visit The Volunteer Center's website, www.ucanhelp.org, which is a SEARCHABLE database of over 200 opportunities available!
Submitted by Angela McFarland

Posted by EmilyW at 12:15 PM

December 09, 2005

Dramatic Reading of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”

A dramatic reading of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” will be presented at 4:30 pm at the Darien Congregational Church on Brookside Road, Sunday, December 18th.

Using the abridged text of the peerless story that Dickens himself used in his frequent public readings of the story, all twenty-two characters will come alive in the voice of a single speaker. The reading will be one hour and twenty minutes including a five minute intermission. As the Congregational Meetinghouse pews are sometimes felt to be nothing less than “Dickensian,” attenders may wish to bring their own seat cushions!

Intended for the child in all of us, children are most welcome to this event, if accompanied by an adult. Because of the length and content of the reading, parents may want to gage what age children will most enjoy the experience.

A reception featuring Christmas cookies and “a family version” of “Smoking Bishop,” a hot sweet punch often served on festive occasions in Dickens’ day, will be served follow the reading. There is no admission charge, but a free will offering will be asked to benefit the family shelter for the homeless at Saint Luke’s “Life Works” in Stamford.

Written in 1843, A Christmas Carol was an immediate literary and popular success. Like many of Charles Dickens’ famous novels, it was written against a backdrop of the abhorrent social conditions of the early Industrial Revolution in Great Britain. Dickens knew these at first hand and close range. His reporting of them are among the most graphic descriptions of contemporary life in all literature. Equally memorable are his colorful characterizations in this story of such figures as the very kind and decent Bob Cratchit, the generous and always happy Mr. Fezziwig, in his “capacious waistcoat,” and that most lovable old miser and villain, Ebenezer Scrooge himself, have become common household names on both sides of the Atlantic ocean. Of course the three famous ghosts of Christmas, Past, Present and future will also appear to guide Scrooge, and us, through a fearsome but ultimately hopeful “once upon a time,” Christmas Eve.

All of these and more will make a graphic appearance in the solitary voice of the Reverend Ronald Evans, a lover of Dickens’ stories and champion of the old family custom of reading aloud. Though somewhat different from the usual texts read Sunday after Sunday in the historic Darien Meetinghouse, Dickens’ Christmas Carol carries a message like so many Bible stories that cannot be confined to a single place or season.

All are welcome to share in this special gift to the community on Sunday afternoon before Christmas at magical story telling hour of 4:30 p.m. For more information, call the church office at (203) 655-0491.

Posted by EmilyW at 02:51 PM