11/30/18: FREE Paul Winter Consort Musical Tracks to Download!

From Paul Winter: 

"This Winter Solstice we will pay homage to the half-century lineage of the Consort. Listening now to our early recordings, I’m grateful to be able to feel that they have, at least for me, stood the test of time. We are working toward an anniversary boxed-set of our many recordings, which will be released  in 2019.

For now, we want to offer free downloads of some of this music here..."

https://music.paulwinter.com/album/paul-winter-consort-free-download

"My first band, the Paul Winter Sextet, had a great run in the early ‘60s, and the experiences from our travels led me to envision a new kind of group, one that would embrace all the traditions  I had come to love. It was while living in Brazil, then, in the mid-‘60s, that I got much of the inspiration for the instrumentation of this new ensemble. The group evolved then after that with the encouragement of my friend Paul Stookey (of Peter, Paul and Mary), who produced our first two albums. I chose the name “Consort” for the band, full well realizing that people might think it was just “concert” spelled wrong. I liked both meanings of the word:

Cónsort, /?känsôrt/, Noun: A small group of musicians making music together.

Consórt, /k?n?sôrt/, Verb: To associate, accord, harmonize; get together.

I wrote a manifesto for this new band:

“My idea of consort is an organic ensemble in which the authentic voice of each player can be heard, and in which ensemble-playing and soloing are of equal importance. I imagine it as an analog to a pure democracy, in which there is equal commitment to the well-being of the whole and to the expression of each individual within it. Everyone’s vote (voice) counts.   

Free Consort Tracks

Here are 8 tracks from the Consort’s first period (1968 to 1972).

1. “Ballad in 7/8” (Trad. Rumanian; arr. Winter)

This is our adaptation of a Rumanian folk melody we heard in a piano piece by Bela Bartok. It features improvised variations by cellist Richard Bock.

2. “Both Sides Now” (Joni Mitchell)

This was my first arrangement for the instrumentation of the Consort. The cello counterlines were inspired by the Prelude of Bach’s First Cello Suite.

These tracks are from our 1968 album, The Winter Consort, produced by Noel Paul Stookey, with myself on alto sax; Richard Bock / cello; Gene Murrow / English horn; Virgil Scott / alto flute; Gene Bertoncini / guitar; John Beal / bass; Ruth Ben-Zvi / darbuke; Jim Kappes / drums (Leon Rix / drums on “Both Sides Now”).

3. “The Famous Pirate” (Leopold Weiss; arr. Winter)

I became fascinated early on with the 13-string Baroque Lute, which is like a classical guitar on steroids. Karl Herreshoff was a superb guitarist who was also a student of this amazing lute. This composition is by the most famous lutenist of the 18th century, Leopold Weiss, who reputedly was a good friend of J.S. Bach. We’ve created new melodies for the Consort over-top the lute piece. 

This is from our 1969 album, Something in the Wind, produced by Noel Paul Stookey, with myself on alto sax; Paul McCandless / English horn; Richard Bock / cello; Virgil Scott / alto flute; Karl Herreshoff / baroque lute; John Beal / bass; and Steve Booker / drums. 

4. “Um Abraco” (A Big Hug) (Ralph Towner)

This is from our 1970 summer tour, recorded live at Royce Hall, UCLA. It was Paul McCandless’s first recording on oboe. 

5. “Fantasy, Fugue and Ghost Beads”

This suite includes the “Fantasy” for guitar by Mudarra, arranged by Ralph Towner; a Bach “Fugue” from one of the Orchestral Suites; and Ralph’s composition “Ghost Beads.”

(“Ghost Beads” has the honor of, along with another of Ralph’s compositions for the Consort, "Icarus," having a crater on the moon named after it. Cellist David Darling’s brother-in-law, Joe Allen, was the scientist-astronaut in charge of the Apollo 15 mission, and he gave those astronauts a cassette of this album, to listen to en route to the moon. The astronauts got to name new craters they discovered, and they named two of them from these pieces they liked on the album.)

These three tracks are from our 1970 album, Road, produced by Phil Ramone, with myself on alto sax; Paul McCandless / oboe and English horn; David Darling / cello; Ralph Towner / guitar; Glen Moore / bass; and Collin Walcott / congas, tambourine, tabla.

6. “Ode to a Fillmore Dressing Room” (David Darling)

David Darling played the seed-themes of this piece in the dressing room at the Fillmore East, in New York, when we played there in the spring of 1971. I captured them on a cassette recorder and then urged David to develop then into a composition. This piece gave us a context for continuing our exploration of new instruments, including the contrabass sarrusophone (heard in the introduction and ending), and the sitar, which Collin Walcott had learned during the years he was road manager for Ravi Shankar. This piece incorporates a unique string quartet, of classical guitar, sitar, cello, and bass. 

7. “Sunwheel” (Ralph Towner)
8. “Icarus” (Ralph Towner)

These three tracks are from the 1971 album Icarus, produced by George Martin, with myself on soprano sax; Paul McCandless / oboe; David Darling / cello; Ralph Towner / guitar, regal (on “Sunwheel”); Herb Bushler / bass; and Collin Walcott / percussion, sitar. (Billy Cobham plays drums on “Sunwheel,” and Larry Atamanuik on “Icarus.”)"

Download FREE tracks:

https://music.paulwinter.com/album/paul-winter-consort-free-download

10/26/18: Cabaret with Marilyn Maye presented by LCC Starry Nights Cafe

The Litchfield Community Center's Starry Nights Cafe welcomes you to an evening with the incomparable star of Cabaret, Ms. Marilyn Maye on Sat. Nov. 3, 2018

Marilyn Maye is a highly praised singer, actress, director, arranger, educator, a Grammy nominated recording artist and a musical treasure. Her entire life has been committed to the art of song and performance.

The award winning Ms. Maye appeared 76 times on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson - the record for a singer. Perhaps the simplest Marilyn Maye accolade came after one of her show stopping appearances on The Tonight Show when turning to his audience of millions, Johnny Carson said, "And that, young singers, is the way it's done." 

Ms. Maye will be accompanied by bassist Steve Doyle. Mr. Doyle is an active part of the New York jazz and cabaret scenes performing regularly at prestigious venues such as the Carlyle, Birdland, Town Hall, Joe's Pub and the Metropolitan Room.

The evening begins with a 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. open bar cocktail hour with delectable appetizers prepared by Dave Vigeant of The Village Restaurant and Samantha Tilley of Mockingbird Kitchen & Bar. 

Ms. Maye will perform 8 - 9:15 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person.
(Reserved, front row table are Sold Out!) 

Proceeds benefit the Litchfield Community Center, a non-profit organization serving our NW CT area. To reserve your seat or obtain more information, phone 860-567-8302 or visit:www.thecommunitycenter.org 

For more information on Marilyn Maye, please visit her website HERE

"Marilyn Maye has everything. She can belt, and she can sing ballads with the kind of warmth that makes your heart smile. She has a theatrical flair that captivates and enthralls, and jazz-spiced chops that can reach notes most singers a third her age can't even hit in their dreams. She's the real deal, the surviving artist of the American popular singer"
Rex Reed, New York Observer 

7/26/18: SummerFest Gala 2018 Photos are here!

SummerFest 2018 Gala Photos are here!

Credit to Litchfield Hills Photography

The Staff of the Litchfield Community Center would like to give special thanks to:

Ron Leal & LCC Board of Directors

Amazing event volunteers of all ages!

Bill & Carol Jones Creative Gems

Jack & Pam Baker Litchfield Distillery

Papermoon Performing Arts Dancers

Mike Main & The Vintage Car Crew

Bill & Betty's Pizza, Brits Brand, LLC,

Tilden's Seafood, The Village Restaurant,

Village Wine Cellar

Sportmen's of Litchfield

Vintage Car Crew

Dale & Quentin Ryan

The Many Wonderful Event Sponsors

And all the guests who attended and contributed to the fun and success of this special evening!

See the photos here!

7/3/18: FAMILY SUMMERFEST WEEK! July 23rd - 27th

Family SummerFest Week July 23rd - 27th!  FREE Programs ALL Week for ALL AGES!

Monday, July 23: 

• 11am - Come enjoy lawn games, pool, table tennis, board games, and more!
• 12pm - Family Cookout! - Hot dogs and hamburgers will be served
• 1pm - Family Movie! 

Tuesday, July 24:

• 11am - Kids Story Time - Authors Nan Rossiter, and Rose Petruzzi will be here to showcase some of their best childrens books.
• 1pm - Tie Dye and Ice Cream Social!  Bring your own piece of clothing to tie dye.  All other materials are provide

Wednesday, July 25:

• 2:30pm - Animal Embassy will be here for a live animal show with over 10 different animals!
•    5:30 - Family Dinner Night!  Leave the cooking and cleaning up to us, while you just enjoy your meal!

Thursday, July 26:

• 1pm - Rolling Video Games of New England will be here with their video game truck so you can try all the latest systems, and games!

Friday, July 27:

• 11am - Carnival Day!  Come enjoy a waterslide, bounce house, face painting, popcorn, balloon animals, and more!

Pre-registration is appreciated for ALL Programs/Events BUT walk-in are ALWAYS welcome! 

You can register at www.thecommunitycenter.org or give us a call at 860 567 8302, or email us at info@thecommunitycenter.org

5/21/18: 2018 SummerFest Raffle Tickets

LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY CENTER’S SUMMERFEST 2018

GRAND PRIZE RAFFLE

“I’LL TAKE MANHATTAN”

AN EXCEPTIONAL WEEKEND IN NYC ~ VALUED AT $6000.00

Only 2000 tickets to be sold

The winner of this prize will be given the opportunity to travel for an exceptional weekend in NYC

·       Trip includes

~ Roundtrip transportation from CT to NYC (or from airport in proximity to NYC)

~ Accommodations at luxury hotel for Friday & Saturday evening

~ Friday and Saturday dinner, Sunday brunch

~ $500 voucher for Broadway tix to show of your choice

·       Weekend needs to be booked 3 months in advance

·       The prize does not include alcoholic beverages and cannot be redeemed for cash

·       Winner will be responsible for all applicable state and federal taxes

·       Winner need not be present at drawing (to be held July 21 9:00 p.m. at SummerFest 2018)

Tickets are also available at the Community Center or online at:

Buy your raffle tickets HERE!

For more information 860-567-8302

3/8/18: March Events and Programs

Wonderful events and programs still to come in March!  Still time to register!  Here are just a few of our awesome happenings...

Day Trip to Waterbury Symphony presents Master Musician Garrick Ohlsson: Sunday, March 11, 2pm, $35 - Depart LCC at 2pm, show starts at 3pm, return to LCC after show.  Show is at the Naugatuck Valley Community College Fine Arts Center.  Transportation provided on the LCC Van.  Transportation, and admission included in price.

Family Dinner: Wednesdays, March 14, and 28, 5:30-7pm, Donations Welcome!  Enjoy a relaxing meal, and social time!  Hosted by Food Rescue US NW CT and the LCC.

7th & 8th Grade Welcome to Spring Party!:  Friday, March 16, 7-9:30pm, $5 @ the door.  Live DJ, Games, Snacks, And More!  Open to ALL AREA 7th and 8th graders!!!

Live Learn Lunch - Assistive Technology Demo:  Monday, March 19, 11am-12pm.  Charlene Wicks of the Western CT Area Agency on Aging will give demos on assistive devices such as magnifiers, phone amplifiers, vibrating alarm clocks, talking watches, and kitchen utensils, just to name a few.  This demo will enable an individual to make an informed decision as to which device will work best for their needs.  The items demonstrated may help you or smone you know to live, work, or play more independently and with more freedom.  Q&A and lunch to follow.  Must pre-register for lunch.

Family Pizza, and Game Night!: Friday March 23, 5-8pm.  The family that plays together (and eats together) stays together!  Come take a break, and re-group from the craziness of everday life, and have a good time with family, and friends!  Pizza, games, pool, table tennis, and more! Come, and go as you please, or stay the whole time!  RSVP for pizza appreciated.  Register online, or call the LCC.  Sponsored by the Litchfield Prevention Council, and the LCC.

For more detail on these great events/programs, and to check out all of our offerings, visit us at www.thecommunitycenter.org , email info@thecommunitycenter.org , or call us at 860 567 8302.

2/7/18: Join Us For The 16th Annual Sweetheart Run, And These Exciting Events At The LCC

This year marks the 16th Annual Bob and Peg Andrulis Sweetheart 5 Mile Run, and 3 Mile Walk!  Join us on Saturday, February 17th, and help continue a lasting tradition.  Pre-registration encouraged, day of registration available from 9:00AM till race start, at 11:00AM.  5 Mile Course is USATF Certified.  T-shirts are guaranteed to the first 150 registrants.  Price is $25pp, $10 children 10yo and younger, and FREE for participants 80yo or older!  Registration will increase to $30 on 2/08/17 so register today, and save!  Start and finish of race at the Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. Litchfield, CT.  Proceeds to benefit the LCC. 

Register here: http://www.lightboxreg.com/16th-annual-bob-and-peg-andrulis-sweetheart-run?func=&mobile=0

More events to look forward to this month:

2/9/17 - Date Night Cooking Class w/ Celeb Chef John Ferrucci: Hands-on cooking class for a date night menu with Capon Cordon Bleu.  Seasonal Vegetables, and Potato.  Dessert will be apple and cheese strudel!  Each couple will prepare the capon in three different styles and we will discuss the final result at the end of the night when we sit down and enjoy the meal.  A suggested wine to pair would be a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc, or feel free to bring your favorite beverage to enjoy with dinner.

Register here: http://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=7450

2/12/17 - Live Learn Lunch ~ Road Scholars Educational Adventures: Doug and Ellen Stevens, Road Scholar is the not-for-profit leader in educational travel for adults.  Like a University of the World, we offer thousands of educational travel adventures around the globe, from studying art in Arizona to learning about zoology in Zambia.  Our participants can choose from 5,500 learning adventures on an extraordinary range of topics and interests.  Our faculty consists of world renowned experts who offer insider access not available to the independent traveler.

Register here: http://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=7081

2/16/17 - Friday Feast and Dancing Feet!:  Every 3rd Friday of the month!  Always a blast, attracting 50+ people each month.  Enjoy a great lunch, at an even greater price - only $7pp!  All while enjoying great music, and dancing brought to you by Michael Ciulla this month.  Music made possible by the NW CT Community Foundation/Litchfield Community Center Music Fund.

Register here: http://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=7052

2/20/17 - Youth Day Trip to iT Ropes Course New Haven:  Adventure Indoor Ropes Course!  Enjoy the IT Ropes Course, Zip IT Zip Lines, and Jump IT Free-Fall Simulation!  Aferwards, enjoy lunch at Blaze Pizza. Depart on LCC Van at 10AM, and return to LCC approximately 3:30PM.  Youth must be 48'' tall to participate.

Register here: http://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=7482

2/21/17 - Family Dinner:  Open to ALL!  Enjoy a relaxing meal and social time!  Hosted by Food Rescue US NW CT and Litchfield Community Center.

Register here:  http://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=7445

2/22/17 - CT Flower & Garden Show Day Trip:  The Convention Center will be transfromed into a breathtaking event for floral, and garden enthusiasts.  Explore over 300 booths, view beautifully landscaped gardens.  Seminars & Demos...All included in your admission ticket.  Visit the Federated Garden Clubs of CT design & horticulture competition based on the theme "Breath of Spring", featuring stunning design arrangements in unique themed settings.  Lunch on your own with choice of food vendors on site or bring bag lunch.

Register here: http://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=7452

2/23/17 - Kais & Dollz Puerto Rico Relief Fundraiser:  Enjoy a musical concert by 4 young local musicians, "Kais & Dollz", to benefit The Hurrican Relief Community Recovery Fund.  Refreshments to be served.  $10 suggested donation a the door.

For most up to date information on our program, and events, please check out our online calendar at:  www.thecommunitycenter.org

10/16/17: Firepits

Such a great day on Saturday with the BrewFest but when we came in this morning, the firepits that were lent to us were not here.

So if you borrowed them to keep the afterglow going, it would be great if you return them soon - you can come anytime, no questions asked!

We would really appreciate it! They really should be given back to the kind folks that lent them to us. Please share!

9/7/17: Gin, Jeans and Jazz

Saturday Nov. 4, 2017

Litchfield Community Center's Starry Night Cafe returns featuring The Peter McEachern/Dave Santoro Quintet.

Don your jeans, sip some gin, swing and sway to cool jazz.

Doors open at 7:00pm, music is 8:00pm - 10:00pm

Ticket price of $75.00 pp includes cocktails, beer, soft drinks and bar food.

Music made possible by NW CT Community Foundation Litchfield Community Center Music Fund.

Click here to make your reservation!

7/21/17: Look at the SummerFest 2017 Photo Album!

SummerFest 2017 was a wonderful night!

Thank you to all our sponsors, guests and volunteers for making it such a special event.

Go to the link below to see the photo album of all the pictures.

HERE

If you would like to purchase any of the photos, contact Jill Davenport, Litchfield Hills Photography at the link in the album.

Enjoy!

7/17/17: Free, Family Fun SummerFest Week is here!

All this week starting Monday June 17 through Friday June 21 is our annual week of Free, Family Fun SummerFest Week!

 Go to our online calendar at the link below to see all the events we have coming up every day this week...and join in the fun!

Calendar

6/13/17: 2017 SummerFest Raffle Tickets are on sale NOW!

The Litchfield Community Center’s Summerfest 2017 Raffle Prize this year "A Trip of a Lifetime!":

• One trip (regardless of number of travelers/stops along the way)
• Value of up to $10,000
• Drawing will take place at 9:00 p.m. on July 15^th Need not be present to win
• Can be redeemed for any prepad travel arrangements offered by the appointed travel agency
• Reservations must be made by July 15, 2018
• Prize doesn’t include alcoholic beverages, and cannot be redeemed for cash
• Winner responsible for all applicable state and federal taxes

Raffle ticket proceeds benefit the Community Center’s wide array of programs & services.

Tickets are only $20 each.  Buy them at the Community Center or online HERE

3/28/17: The Best Is Yet To Come In March!

With only days left in March, we still have our best programs, and events yet to come for this month!

Wednesday ~ March 29th ~ 10am: Start the day shopping with lunch on your own at the West Farms Mall from 11:00am - 1:00 pm.
Then head to the New Britain Museum of Art where a docent will give you a guided tour of Museum highlights including the Ansel Adams Exhibit from 1:30pm - 2:30pm.  Enjoy some free time to explore more of the museum on your own from 2:30pm - 3:00pm.  Depart LCC at 10:00am / depart Museum at 3:00pm.

Wednesday ~ March 29th ~ 2pm:  Join us at The Litchfield Community Center for an interactive multi-media presentation by the Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame and learn about some of our state's most remarkable women! Be inspired as you learn about well-known figures like Ella Grasso, Katharine Hepburn and Marian Anderson and lesser known heroines like Maria Sanchez, Barbara McClintock and Hannah Watson. This presentation will introduce you to the Hall, its mission and programs, and give you a panoramic view of some of its 109 Inductees from across all fields of endeavor, from politics and sports to the arts and sciences.

Thursday ~ March 30th ~ 2pm:  History comes to life with Actor, Author, Educator Ted Zalewski as he portrays one of America's greatest presidents in "Teddy Roosevelt: Mind, Body & Spirit". Combining history, drama and fun voice he's given to Roosevelt's own words, writings and beliefs. Cowboy, soldier, naturalist, historian, father, statesman and a winner of the Nobel Prize for Peace, Theodore Roosevelt lived a life that inspires us still. Get ready for a 'bully' time with Teddy Roosevelt!

And join us everday for our great on-going programs.  Open to all ~ come as you wish!

Mondays ~ Yoga 9am ~ Monday Movie 1pm

Tuesdays ~ Community Artist Group 9am ~ Dance Exercise 9:30 ~ Duplicate Bridge 10am ~ Bingo 1:15pm

Wednesdays ~ Yoga 9am ~ Tai Chi 10:30am ~ Table Tennis 11:15am ~ Bridge 1pm

Thursdays ~ Dance Exercise 9am ~ Blood Pressure Check 9:30am ~ Wii Bowling 10:45am ~ Table Tennis 11am ~ Writer's Guild 1pm

~ Great Courses 2pm ~ Sculpt & Tone 7pm

Fridays ~ Yoga 9am ~ Grief Support Group 9:30am ~ Chair Yoga 10:30am ~ MahJongg 11:30am 

To register for any, or all of these wonderful events, call us at 860 - 567 - 8302, or email us at info@thecommunitycenter.org

Have an idea for a great program, and/or event?  Contact our Program/Event Coordinator, Dave Hunt at Dave@thecommunitycenter.org We'd love to hear from you!

Check out our online calendar for other great happenings at the Litchfield Community Center! www.thecommunitycenter.org

2/16/17: Oliver Wolcott Library visit Senior Cafe

Senior Café at Litchfield Community Center

Thursday, March 16

11:30 a.m.

The Oliver Wolcott Library’s Adult Services Librarian, Audra MacLaren, will be visiting the Senior Center Café Lunch to check out books, audio books, and DVD’s. All materials can be checked out during your visit and returned at the next one! The Senior Center Café Lunch is generously sponsored by the Litchfield Hills/Northwest Elderly Nutrition Program and hosted at the Litchfield Community Center at 421 Bantam Road in Litchfield, and is open to anyone 60 years of age or older and their spouse.

2/13/17: Sweetheart Photos and Results

What a great day we had on Saturday with the Sweetheart Run & Walk! We had over 250 registered runners and walkers sign up for the event and those who came out put their hearts into making it a most memorable day!! BIG Kudos to all the volunteers who pitched in and helped in so many ways to make the event so successful! And we extend our gratitude to the businesses and organizations that sponsored this event. Your support is a great benefit to everyone who enjoys our programs and activities. 

Our friends at Litchfieldbz always do a marvelous job of promoting the Community Center's offerings. Enjoy this link from them -  it certainnly highlights the JOY of the Sweetheart Run & Walk! http://www.litchfield.bz/sports/sweetheart-run-a-prevalentines-day-tradition/

2/10/17: Sweetheart Run/Walk is ON for tomorrow!

We are prepped and pumped for the Sweetheart Run & Walk tomorrow!

A great effort was put out last evening by members of the Village Striders to get the goodie bags stuffed for all the runners and walkers! And a big thank you to Amy Brown for hosting us at the Haight-Brown Winery!!  

Join us for this fun event for all ages tomorrow morning! Registration will be open 9:00 - 10:45 a.m. with 11 a.m. start - come run 5 miles, walk 3 miles or cheer on your Sweetheart! Cost is $30/$10 for children 10 & under and free for 80 years & older! Enjoy warm soup and sweet refreshments inside after you cross the finish line! For more info call the Community Center 860-567-8302 or email info@thecommunitycenter.org

2/8/17: Center Closed on Thursday, Feb 9th

We finally have a snow storm! How exciting! The Center will be closed and we will all be resting up in anticipation of the 15th Annual Sweethert Run & Walk being held this Saturday, February 11th at 11 a.m. You can come out and join in the fun of running a 5 mile route or walk a 3 mile course. It will all be beautiful "on account of this frosting!". Wonderfu refreshments and a whole lot of community spirit await you after you cross the finish line! Call or email us on Friday for more info - we sure would love to have you join in on the day! For now, stay cozy.

1/30/17: Starry Nights Cafe wowed all who were here!

A fabulous evening was had by all at the Litchfield Community Center's Starry Nights Cafe on Saturday Jan. 28th! 

We were wowed with the amazing musical performance by the Steve Doyle Trio, featuring Billy Stritch on piano and Nicolas King, vocals.

As the photos show (link below), the Community Center was again transformed into a night club worthy of NYC (many thanks to Ron Leal).

Don't miss the next performance in the Starry Nights Cafe series with the return of the Nicole Zuraitis Quartet, April 1!

Call or email to reserve your seat today and save $25.00 on admission! (special offer valid until Feb. 15, 2017)

860-567-8302 or email litchfieldcommunitycenter@gmail.com

See more pictures here

1/24/17: Programs And Events For All Ages!

Did you know the Litchfield Community Center caters to all age groups?!  Ranging from 0 years old, to over 100 years old, there is an event for YOU!  Every month you can find new fun and exciting events pertaining to your age group.  Mark you calendars for these highlighted events coming up in February!

"Motion Man", Friday Feb. 3rd, 6pm ~ An event for ALL ages!  Take a Mechanical Man, precision Pantomime, lyrical movement, hysterical characterizations, a Chagall, Giant Bubbles, Toilet Plungers, Step Ladders, Gibberish, a Ukulele, Spinning Plates, 8 Foot Streamers, a Parasol, a Floating Hat; Things that Float over the Audience, a man squeezing through a picture frame, giant bubbles and Inspirational Improvisation put them in a blender and what do you get??? Come and find out on February 3rd, at the Litchfield Community Center!

"Waking the Spirit", Sunday, Feb. 5th, 2pm ~ Come enjoy a movie musical presentation, and meet the man behind it all!  Guitarist/Author Andrew Schulman, Star of "Andrew & Wendy" Documentary Film 'Waking the Spirit: A Musician's Journey Healing Body, Mind and Soul", survived cardiac arrest, and lives to tell as he he helps critically ill patients through medical music.

Children's Playgroup, Thursdays, 1:30pm ~ Open to children ranging from 0-2 years old, parents come enjoy an afternoon playgroup where you and your children will make new friends!  New and age appropriate toys provided by the Center but feel free to bring your own!

Give Local, Thur., Feb. 9th and 16th, 9am ~ Give Local will explain how it works and how your organization can benefit from participation. We will review eligibility guidelines, explain the registration process and clarify how bonus funds and prizes work. This session is strongly recommended for nonprofits and staff who are new to Give Local.

15th Annual Sweet Heart Run, Sat. Feb. 11th, 11am ~ Come show your love by running in the 15th Annual running of the Sweet Heart Run 5 mile road race, and 3 mile walk!  Race time is at 11am but be sure to show up early for registration, and stick around for awards, and refreshments to warm you up!

"Live, Learn, Lunch" Music Therapy, Mon. Feb. 13th, 11am ~ One Monday a month, come learn about a healthy lifestyle topic, and stick around for a FREE lunch.  This months workshop will include live, interactive music experientials and information on how to use music within your day to day life to improve overall wellness.  Come ready to make some music!

AARP Safe Drivers, Wed. Feb. 15th, 9am ~ Come get a refresher with the nation's first and largest classroom refresher for motorists 50+. Auto insurance discounts in most states!

Friday Feast & Dancing Feet! Fri., Feb. 17th, 12pm ~ Every third Friday of the month, come enjoy some great live music, and a delicous meal!  This month's featured musician is Ralph Sacco!

7th & 8th Grade Dance! Fri., Feb. 17th, 7pm ~ Once a month, the Center transforms itself into a DJ bumpin' club.  Open to 7th & 8th graders of all area towns.  Refreshments available as well!

History Comes to Life-A Search for Justice, Wed. Feb. 22nd, 2pm ~ The second performance of our 6 part "History Comes to Life Series", Actor Stephen Collins will examine issues of social, political and religious justice. You will hear the words of Abolitionist Editor William Lloyd Garrison. John Brown will tell you why he resorted to violence. Lincoln will deliver his oration at Gettysburg, the words that remade America. Thomas Hardy and other writers will comment on war and religion.

Hartford Flower & Garden Show, Thur., Feb. 23rd, 10am ~ Travel with us to the CT Convention Center in Hartford for the 36th Annual CT Flower & Garden Show. Explore over 300 booths, view landscaped gardens and visit the Federated Garden Clubs of CT design & horticulture competition based on this year's theme "Woodland Enchantment'.  This year's guest is the host of PBS's "The Victory Garden" Roger Swain.

Afternoon Jazz feat. The Greg Carleton Trio, Fri. Feb. 24th, 2pm ~ Straight from the Jackie Mclean Institue of Jazz at the University of Hartford comes the Greg Carleton Trio. Come enjoy an afternoon of Jazz at the Litchfield Community Center.  Coffee, and cookies will be provided.  This Event is Made Possible by The Litchfield Community Center Music Fund, a Fund of the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation.  FREE - RSVP required.

Friday Fun Day, Fri. Feb. 24th, 4pm ~ One Friday, every month the Center is open to a world of fun to 4th through 6th graders.  This month's Friday Fun Day will be sponsored by the Litchfield High School Student Council Class of 2019, with proceeds benefiting their club.

To RSVP, register, and additional information on these and other events/programs the Litchfield Community Center has to offer, visit us at www.thecommunitycenter.org, or call 860-567-8302.

Share your ideas with us!  At the Litchfield Community Center, we are here to serve you, and want to hear from you.  If you have any ideas for programs, events, or trips, let us know!  Send your ideas to the Program Coordinator, Dave Hunt: dave@thecommunitycenter.org

1/5/17: 17 Programs/Events To Kickstart Your 2017!

17 Programs/Events To Kickstart Your 2017!

Check out these 17 Programs/Events at the Litchfield Community Center to kickstart your 2017!

Alzheimer's Support (1/5) ~ First Thursday of every month, come talk with Tina Hogan, of the Alzheimer's Association about your questions and concerns.  Learn about education programs.  Understand more about memory loss.  Get connected with other experiencing challenges associated with memory loss.  Discover resources available in your community.  

Coffee, Cookies, and Conversation (1/6) ~ Join Bruce Oren of CareMatch America for Coffee, Cookies, and Conversation about Elder Care to ask questions, get answers, or just talk!

Live, Learn, & Lunch (1/9) ~ Held once a month, on a Monday, come learn about a healthy lifestyle topic, and enjoy a FREE lunch at the same time!  This month, join Tracey Waite, RN, of the Center for Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine at Sharon Hospital for a special presentation and discussion on maintaining healthy skin at any age. Proper PH balance, moisturizers and washes will also be discussed, as well as edema and ulcers from poor circulation of the lower extremities.

Long Term Care Insurance (1/10) ~ A tutorial for those over 50 years old and those caring for elders.  Nancy Simm, CLTC, LTCP, CSA Highland Capital Brokerage will be here to discuss your options. Join her for a FREE presentation and Question and Answer period.

Assistive Technology Demo (1/11) ~ Western CT Area Agency on Aging will provide free personalized demonstrations on assistive devices such as magnifiers, phone amplifiers, vibrating alarm clocks, smart pens and talking watches just to name a few.

Children's Playgroup (1/12) ~ Come join our weekly playgroup! Every Thursday, from 1:30pm - 2:15pm. Open to children ages 0-2 years old. Older siblings are welcome to come color/draw. Parental supervision required for all children.

Friday Fun Day! (1/13) ~ Open to 4th - 6th graders, each month a Litchfield High School student group hosts an evening at the Community Center with proceeds benefiting various causes.  Open games! Ping pong, pool, air hockey, Foosball, Wii, board games, group games, music, arts & crafts! Snacks and beverages available for purchase.

Healing the Heart After Loss (1/14) ~ Come join Eileen Manela, LCSW in a safe supportive space as we learn about the grief process through group sharing, experiential exercises, and mindfulness. Know you are not alone during what can be a confusing and difficult time.  Eileen has a private practice in Litchfield specializing in bereavement and loss. Prior, she spent over a decade at Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in NYC. She is also a Kripalu trained Yoga Instructor.

Friday Feast, and Dancing Feet! (1/20) ~ Join us on the 3rd Friday of each month for a light lunch, music and dancing. Reservations are required.  Music this month by "Jerry Carillo Orchestra".

Teen Dance (1/20) ~ Area 7th & 8th Graders, come dance the night away, and have some fun!

Science Saturday's! ~ Join us for 6 Science Saturdays on 1/21, 2/4, 2/25, 3/11, 3/25, and 4/8. Presented by "How Cool Is That?! (Hands-On Science)", children will gain knowledge through science in a fun, unique, "hands-on" experience. Velya Jancz-Urban brings to the table, a CT teaching certification, with activities aligned to STEM objectives. All materials are supplied. Ideal for grades K-5. Pre-registration required*

P.U.R.A. (1/24) ~ Staff from the Public Utilities Regulatory Authorit (P.U.R.A.) can explain the process and provide information about licensed electric suppliers, how you may reduce your monthly electric bill by switching suppliers and whether choosing a supplier is right for you.

"Hedy Lamarr", History at Play! (1/26) ~ Join actress and historical interpreter, Judith Kalaora, as she introduces you to a woman clouded in a fantasy world that only Tinseltown could create. Watch as this young Austrian refugee transforms to become the most beautiful woman in the world, all the while, inventing technology to GPS, WiFi, and all wireless telecommunication.

D.A.W.G. Training (1/26) ~ D.A.W.G = Diagnose the problem.  Address the problem. Work through the problem.  Go forward.
DonoLou K9 Connection will be starting a 6 week training class! You will learn proper leash walking, impulse control, body language and leadership.  Dogs should be 6 months or older and require up to date rabies, distemper and bordetella in order to attend the class.

"Starry Night's Cafe", Jazz Night (1/28) ~ Come drink, dance, and listen to some of the best Jazz around!  The Steve Doyle Trio featuring Billy Stritch and Nicolas King will be performing.  Cocktails, and desserts will be served.

Yoga ~ Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday A yoga class conducted in a casual, practical, fun atmosphere. Students are encouraged to breathe and stretch to their potential that day. Modifications are always offered. Suitable for people who are beginners to experienced in a yoga practice.

Dance Exercise ~ Every Tuesday, and Thursday build strength and cardiovascular health through movement based in the discipline of dance. Ballet and jazz that incorporates traditional fitness exercise.

For more info, how to signup, and search for more fun, and exciting programs/events at the Litchfield Community Center, visit our Calendar at http://www.thecommunitycenter.org/calendar.php

We look forward to seeing you!