Films we love

Somebody at the New Haven Library knows how to pick more than books



The New Haven Public Library is inviting film buffs to "rediscover some old favorites" at Wednesday Classics, a film series showing classic films during the winter months at 133 Elm St.


From 5:30-7:30 p.m., on the first and last Wednesdays of the month, films will be shown on the big screen, library organizers said in a statement.


There is no charge for the showings, and free parking is available. Bring your own popcorn.


For more information, call the library at 203-946-8835.


The schedule is (with comments included herein by library staff):


January 6: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1932), the first horror film to win an Academy Award, thanks to the lead performance by Fredric March and the elegant direction by Rouben Mamoulian.


January 27: It Happened One Night (1934), a screwball comedy directed by Frank Capra, in which pampered socialite played by Claudette Colbert tries to get out from under her father's thumb, and falls in love with roguish newspaper reporter Clark Gable.


February 3: Now, Voyager (1942), a middle-aged spinster played by Bette Davis suffers a nervous breakdown because of her domineering mother. After spending time in a sanitarium, she finds freedom with a man she meets while on a cruise.


February 24: Casablanca (1943). You must remember this, a kiss is still a kiss… Arguably America’s most popular film of all time, starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart.


March 3: Gaslight (1944). A husband played by Charles Boyer with a lot to hide determines to prove his wife, Ingrid Bergman, insane. His plan almost works, until a chance encounter with a stranger at the Tower of London who turns out to be Inspector Cameron of Scotland Yard, played by Joseph Cotten.


March 31: Born Yesterday (1950). A corrupt millionaire junk dealer played by Broderick Crawford) hires a smart journalist William Holden to add some grace notes to the behavior of his fiance Judy Holliday, so that she will not ruin his wheeling and dealing in Washington. The tables get turned when the “dumb blonde” discovers the principles of American democracy.

For the kids

Members of the New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade recently contributed to the "Toys for Tots" and "Metro Taxi's" annual toy drive.

Items will be distributed to needy families for the holiday season.

In the photo, shown l to r, are Chief of Staff Joe Lynch, Grand Marshal Jim McGovern, Chairman Walter Nester, Metro Taxi Operations Manager Jared Whitcomb and Secretary Kevin A. Smith. To make a donation to Metro Taxi's toy drive, call 203-777-7777. Non-perishable food items also are being collected.

Bridge to "Troubled Water"

The New Haven Public Library is a path to more than books

NEW HAVEN - A 2008 thriller from Norway and Sweden, "Troubled Water, is the first offering in the New Haven Public Library's World Film Series offered in cooperation with Yale's Program in International Educational Resources, organizers said in a statement.

Brian Carter, heads of the European Studies Program, will lead a discussion following a free screening from 2 t o 4:30 p.m. Dec. 18, at the library, 133 Elm St., the statment said.

Films in the series will be shown in their original languages with English subtitles, and are suitable for mature audiences, the statement said.

The film's story, according to the statement, is about a man who was recently released from prison after serving time for the murder of a child and has always maintained his innocence but is ready to put the past behind him. Using his middle name he takes a job as an organist at an Oslo church. His talent and gentle manner quickly earn him the respect of his superiors, as well as the love of the pastor, Anna. Thomas even overcomes his initial panic to return the affection of Anna's young son, Jens. But his past catches up with him when he is recognized by the mother of the young boy whom he was convicted of killing.

For more information, call the library at 203-946-8835.

Which craft?

WOODBRIDGE - The Woodbridge Library will hold an open drop-in Friday Morning Adult Craft Club from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 11.

Crafters seeking to meet "fellow crafty individuals who share your love of knitting, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, beading, needlepoint, and other handicrafts," are invited.

Partcipants are asked to bring their latest project to the open drop-in session.

Refreshments will be provided. For more information, call 203-389-3433, stop by the Circulation Desk, or e-mail pvalsecchi@ci.woodbridge.ct.us.

Free!

NEW HAVEN — The New Haven Museum and Historical Society, 114 Whitney Ave., is now open free of admission charge from 1 to 4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month.
Special exhibits include "East Shore Reflections," with furniture and artifacts from the Pardee-Morris House, period paintings and photographs, and the Ingersoll Room, with lavish Christmas decorations.
The Museum Gift Shop features new items and collectibles, old-fashioned toys for children and unique gifts created exclusively for the shop. These include the popular "Three Churches on the Green" snow globes and leather bookmarks, as well as woven cotton throws depicting familiar city landmarks.
For more information, call 203-562-4183, ext. 12.

Slimy? Hurray!

NEW HAVEN - Yale Peabody Museum's Gregory Watkins-Colwell will present "Hot Cocoa/Cool Science: Monitoring Toads, Frogs and Salamanders in Connecticut," from 6 to 7 p.m. Dec. 1 at New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St.

The all-ages program will examine the species diversity and distributions of the state's amphibians.

Live critters will be part of the program, and hot cocoa will be served.

Watkins-Colwell is senior museum assistant for Vertebrate Zoology at the Peabody Museum. In his research about the ecology and evolutionary biology of lizards, he has pursued field work in New Caledonia and China as well as in several states. Watkins-Colwell helps to coordinate the Connecticut Amphibian Monitoring Project, a 15-year study of species diversity and distributions of our state's amphibians. The Hot Cocoa/Cool Science series is a joint project of the Library and Yale University to bring cutting edge science to the general public.

The program and parking are free. Register at http://www.hotcocoa.eventbrite.com/ or call (203) 946-8835.

Hillhouse celebrates students

NEW HAVEN - James Hillhouse High School recently celebrated its Top Ten Females and Top Ten Males at a luncheon at Brazis restaurant. They were joined by the Superintendent of Schools Reginald Mayo and Principal Lonnie Garris, Jr. The celebration included special recognition of the class valedictorian, Shayna Smith along with the celebration of the Top Ten Females and Top Ten Males of the 2010 graduating class.
In the photo, seated, l to r, Ebony Dorsey, Jameel James, Shayna Smith, valedictorian, Racquel Malcolm, Mario Tecpa and Yanique Shand. Second row, l to r, Timothy Cash, Corey Dunbar, Raheem Johnson, Durrell Snow, Assistan Principal Shirley Love Joyner, Principal Lonnie Garris, Jr., Khamille Turnage, Shereen Moore, Nilofar Abdul Jamil and Ashley Maebry. Third row, l to r, Ronald Green, Quashawn Jinwright, Ronald Huggins, Haley Vincent, Julian Pearsall and Fatoumata Kourouma

Cards made by kids help Tommy Fund

Young artists share a message

NEW HAVEN - The annual holiday card sale to benefit Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer has begun.

The cards, part of a regional fundraising effort to meet the educational, recreational and treatment needs of children with cancer, are designed by young artists receiving treatment at Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital, officials said in a statement.

Over the past 22 years, holiday card sales have generated more than $300,000 for the Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer, the statement said.

Proceeds give direct and indirect financial assistance to patients who are treated at the children's hospital and have helped fund a pediatric oncology research nurse, nursing education and research fellowships at Yale School of Medicine for physicians in pediatric oncology.

The Tommy Fund also provides recreational and diversional activities for patients, including family outings and such items as TV monitors, headphones, games and toys for patients, the statement said.

Tommy Fund holiday cards are on sale at the hospital Atrium Gift Shop, all southern Connecticut AAA motor clubs, and through the Tommy Fund Web site, http://www.tommyfund.org/.

Cards are sold in packets of 12 for $12. For more information about the Tommy Fund or the holiday card sale, contact the Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer at (800) 974.5559.

Just a short drive to a Christmas tree

And it's for a good cause


WOODBRIDGE — Scout Troop 63’s annual Christmas Tree Sale begins at 9 a.m. Nov. 28 in the back of the Woodbridge Fire House at the corner of Center and Newton roads.
Parking for the sale of fresh balsam trees is available in the Senior Center parking lot. The sale is held 3 to 8 p.m., weeknights and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., weekends, organizers said. Free delivery is available.
Wreaths, created locally, also are available for $18 each. Each 16 inch wreath is individually distinctive, decorated with pinecones and a festive red all-weather ribbon. Plain or decorative 48 inch wreaths will be available for $65.
Our Lady of the Assumption Church on Center Road also will allow Troop 63 to sell Christmas wreaths at the chapel and rectory, starting at 9:30 a.m., Dec. 6, 13 and 20. All proceeds will benefit the Boy Scouts of Troop 63.
Inquiries for volume discounts, special circumstances or size requirements can be made to Troop 63 Committee Chairman Charles Whiting, at (203) 387-5678.

Ravenna Michaelson to perform at New Haven Library

Event is free and open to the public

NEW HAVEN - To mark the 10th anniversary of the Dalai Lama’s Nobel Peace Prize, Buddhist-inspired singer-songwriter Ravenna Michaelson will perform from 6 to 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at the New Haven Library, 133 Elm St.


Michalsen, shown, studied at Neighborhood Music School and at Yale. Her CDs include Bloom (2006) and Dharmasong (2007).


Samples of her music are available at http://www.ravennam.com/.


The event is free and for all-ages. Free parking is available.


Reservations are suggested at http://www.ravenna.eventbrite.com/ or call the library at (203) 946-8835.


Visit http://www.nhbulletin.blogspot.com/ for regional events and information.

You can help bring troops home for the holidays

The event is open to the public

An open house to raise money for "Operation Home for the Holidays" will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Nov. 14, at Home Gallery Warehouse, 9 Austin Drive, Marlborough.
"Operation Home for the Holidays," an initiative of Gov. M. Jodi Rell, aims to raise $200,000 for travel expenses to bring 700 of Connecticut’s National Guard service men and women home for December break. The troops from the 1st Battalion of the 102nd Infantry Regiment and the 250th Engineering Company will be bused in from "mobilization stations" in Indiana and Wisconsin, respectively, where they now are completing preparations for deploying to Afghanistan, organizers said.
The event, which is free and open to the public, will raise money through raffle prizes, T-shirt sales and cash donations. Complimentary lunch will be provided by Agave from 1t o 3 p.m.
Businesses Fathom, Lisa Davenport’s Home Gallery and Agave, along with social media enthusiasts from CT TweetCrawl and the Marlborough Business Association are acting as hosts for the event.
The event will include entertainment for children, such as face painting, a craft table to make gifts for the troops and opportunities to meet local celebrities.
Raffle tickets will be sold for prizes ranging from spa days to a $6,000 Tibetan rug (courtesy of Lisa Davenport’s Home Gallery). Businesses wishing to make cash donations will have the opportunity to join local celebrities in the classic "big check" photo opportunity. To RSVP, go to the Facebook event page or follow the Twitter tag "#ophome."
"There is a lot of power in word of mouth, whether it’s Twitter, Facebook or good old face-to-face. We are asking everyone to use those powers for good and help us bring Connecticut’s own home," said Suzi Craig, director of Marketing and Engagement for Fathom and Founder of CT TweetCrawl.
For in-kind and cash donations for the event, e-mail Enza Dandeneau of the Marlborough Business Association atenzad@prudentialct.com; or call (860) 652-4575. For information on the event, e-mail Suzi Craig of Fathom: suzi@fathom.net, or call (860) 384-4480.

Marshals' association gives back

The New Haven County Marshals Association, Local 2193 of Council 4 AFSCME, recently contributed $4,500 to several causes in Greater New Haven, including an agency that works to end domestic violence.
The Marshals Association presented the donations during a recognition ceremony held at John J. Sullivan’s Restaurant in Ansonia.
"New Haven County Marshals are dedicated, hard-working and reputable individuals. Our members are peace officers who are deeply rooted in the communities where they live and work. This is our way of giving back," Richard Krueger, president of the New Haven County Marshals Association, said in a statement.
Organizations that received donations are: The Umbrella (Ansonia), $500; Ansonia Senior Center, $500; Naugatuck YMCA, $500; Prospect Senior Center, $500; Donate Life (Oxford), $500; Friends of Oxford Library, $500; Shakesperience Productions (Waterbury), $500; and Amity Animal Rescue Fund, $500.
"Marshals put their lives on the line every day to protect the public," Susan DeLeon, director of The Umbrella, said in the statement. "We appreciate their efforts and we are grateful for their continued generosity."
The Umbrella helps women and children affected by domestic violence.
Local 2193 Treasurer Mark D’Angelis said the New Haven County Marshals have made charitable contributions to area communities for 10 years. "I am proud our members for their caring and for their generosity," he said in the statement.
Local 2193 is affiliated with Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO, which represents 35,000 employees in Connecticut. Council 4 is Connecticut’s largest AFL-CIO, the statement said.
In the photo, from left: New Haven County Marshals Association President Richard Conroy; state Rep. Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour. and Umbrella Executive Director Susan DeLeon.

Olivier and Garson at the library

It's Jane Austen's birthday!


NEW HAVEN - The Elm Street Book Group will celebrate Jane Austen's birthday (whic occurred in 1775) with a screening of the 1940 classic film, "Pride and Prejudice," at 6 p.m. Dec. 16, at the New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St.
"Fans of Austen's superb novel will have the opportunity to see how well Laurence Olivier and Greer Garson interpret the romance between Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet," organizers said.
The public is invited and free parking is available. Those who register will be eligible for a free coffee or tea to enjoy during the film, compliments of Blue State Coffee on Wall Street. Register at http://www.pandp.eventbrite.com/ or call the library at 946-8835.

"Inspired" donation

Yale University and UNITE HERE donate to Hillhouse

NEW HAVEN – The New Haven Public Schools recently received a $25,000 donation from Yale University and its labor unions, UNITE HERE, school officials said in a statement.

The donation, $12,500 from the University and $12, 500 from the labor unions, was "inspired by the expedient and effective completion of the contract negotiations between the two groups earlier this year," the statement said.

"As a symbol of the good will between the two groups, they made the decision to donate to these funds toward new computers at Hillhouse High School," it said.

“Bob Proto, Local 35 president, called to suggest that this be a joint donation, and we thought it was a great idea. The university and Local 35 plan to do more community projects together in the future," Bruce Alexander, Yale vice president and director of New Haven and State Affairs and Campus Development said, also in the statement.

The donation is expected to provide more than 40 desktop computers, including monitors, software for each computer, keyboards and mice.

“We selected Hillhouse High School because we have a good deal of members in the union who have children that attend that school and we focused on computers because we believe access to technology is a very important part of a student’s education these days,” Bob Proto, president UNITE HERE Local 35, said in the statement.

Shown in the photo, l to r, are: Superintendent of Schools Reginald Mayo, Nadine Gannon, Jameel James, Durell Snow, Shanice Johnson, Jengodji Gates, Bruce Alexander, Bob Proto, James Hillhouse High School Principal Lonnie Garris, Nollysha Canteen, Mark Wilson, Aaron Smith, Quontaijah Alexander, Toni Ann Evans, and Amber Moye.

Are you a poet and you know it?

Or, if you simply love poetry, this is an event for you

NEW HAVEN - Poets are invited to participate in an informal Poetry Open Mic from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 4) at the New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St.
People who want to share their own poetry, a favorite poem, or simply to listen are invited.
New Haven Poet Claire Zoghb will get things rolling with excerpts from her 2009 book of poems, "Small House Breathing," winner of the 2008 Quercus Review Book Award, organizers said. Zoghb’s work has appeared in many magazines and anthologies as well as online at http://www.locuspoint.org/, organizers said.
Twice nominated for the Pushcart Prize and winner of the 2008 Dogwood annual poetry competition, Zoghb is a recipient of two Artist Fellowships from the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism, an Urban Artists Initiative grant, and a residency at the Vermont Studio Center.
The event is free and free parking is available. Participants are encouraged to bring their own coffee if desired. For more information, visit http://www.zopenmic.eventbrite.com/ or call (203) 946-8835.

Helping out in Hamden

HAMDEN - The Academy of Kempo Martial Arts is collecting donations to help feed area families in need.

The academy kicked off its annual food drive in September by dropping its first load of contributed food to the local soup kitchen, organizers said in a statement. Students, families and friends of the academy donated more than 13 bags of non-perishable food to date and continue to donate weekly.

The academy is continuing is to accept donations for Saint Ann’s Soup Kitchen and Keefe Center’s Food Bank, the statement said.

The two organizations help many families who have a limited amount of resources available to them due to current economic conditions, the statement said. The academy's goal is to help the organizations to help families enjoy their holidays by holding the food drive, and the hope is that during this season of giving that they can encourage others to help also, the statement said. Organizers said they are grateful to everyone who has helped the effort.
The academy is offering its students a free semi-private lesson for any five non-perishable items they donate and offering two weeks of free lessons to non-students (limited to one give away per person and cannot be combined).

Donation will be accepted through the end of the holiday season, at 1890 Dixwell Ave. For more information, call (203) 288-9990, or visit http://www.academyofkempo.com/, including to learn best times to drop off donations.

In the photo, back row, l tor, are Jordan Wieland, Gabriella Rodriguez and Gabriel Ciarleglio, Front – Hailey Ciarleglio.

Jewish Learning Institute to present "Soul Quest" class

Relationship of the soul and the body part of course

GUILFORD - Rabbi Yossi Yaffe will teach the course "Soul Quest: The Journey, Through Life, Death, and Beyond" for six upcoming Tuesdays beginning Nov. 10 at the Nathanial B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St.
Through it, partcipants will "discover the ancient Jewish traditions about the relationship of the soul and the body, life and death, Heaven and Hell, and reincarnation and resurrection," organizers said.
The course, produced by the Jewish Learning Institute, is designed for people of all levels of Jewish knowledge. Lessons will examine a range of classic Jewish sources, drawing extensively from the Talmud and Kabbalah, organizers said.
The instructor, Rabbi Yaffe is of Chabad of the Shoreline.
The cost of the course is $50 and includes textbooks. Scholarships are available upon request. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. To register or for more information, call (203) 453-5580, email chabad@snet.net or visit http://www.jewishoreline.org/.

New Haven extends its flu clinics

Health Department also will supply vaccines to homeless and those in need

NEW HAVEN — The city Health Department has extended its seasonal flu clinic for four weeks as a result of high demand for the vaccine, according to city officials.
The vaccines are available to residents for $15 per person, officials said in a statement. Health officials caution the elderly and other high risk individuals to visit their primary care doctor or local clinics for a vaccine or one of the city-sponsored clinics, the statement said. Residents who are able to show a valid Medicare Part B membership card will not be charged for the vaccine, the statement said.
The Health Department also will supply 200 doses of seasonal vaccine that Yale medical students will administer at St. James and St. Paul’s food pantry, at Olive and Chapel streets and on Nov. 1 will supply 200 doses through a health fair at Trinity Church on the Green for homeless and other needy populations, the statement said.
Health Department clinics to will be held at 54 Meadow St., from 9 a.m. to noon, on Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24, the statement said.

Operation Home for the Holidays

Gov. M. Jodi Rell is getting some help for her “Operation Home for the Holidays” initiative to bring 700 Connecticut’s National Guard service men and women home for December break and the effort needs your help too.

CT TweetCrawl, Fathom and Lisa Davenport’s Home Gallery will help Rell raise $200,000 by acting as hosts for a Nov. 14 fundraiser at Home Gallery warehouse in Marlborough, organizers said.

“We wanted to host an event at the warehouse and had several great causes in mind. Once the governor announced Operation Home for the Holidays, we knew we had our cause,” Ed Richman, co-owner of Lisa Davenport’s Home Gallery, said in a statement.

The Warehouse Party event hopes to raise at least $25,000 through a dinner fundraiser to be held 6 to 7:30 p.m., with food provided by Hartford-based Agave, and a dance party from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.

Corporate sponsors will pay for the dinner; the dance party will be open to the public for $40 per person. Raffles donated by area businesses will help raise the bulk of the donations, organizers said.

T-shirts will also be sold after the event to continue raising money.

Tickets to the dance party can be purchased online at: http://ophome.eventbrite.com/. The group has formed a Facebook event and the Twitter tag “#ophome.”

“There is a lot of power in word-of-mouth, whether it’s Twitter, Facebook or good old face-to-face. We are asking everyone to use those powers for good and help us bring Connecticut’s own home,” Suzi Craig, director of marketing and engagement for Fathom and founder of CT TweetCrawl, said in the statement.

Ann Nyberg, co-anchor for Ch. 8 WTNH, is emcee for the dinner and Damon Scott of 96.5 WTIC will lead the dance party portion of the evening, organizers said. Local celebrities and Connecticut National Guard families will join the festivities.
Connecticut Army National Guard troops from two units, the 1st Battalion of the 102nd Infantry Regiment and the 250th Engineering Company, will be bused in from their “mobilization stations” in Indiana and Wisconsin, respectively, where they will be completing preparations for deploying to Afghanistan.

Rell's fund-raising effort is part of Operation ELF, or Embracing Lonely Families. For sponsorship opportunities, in-kind donations for the event’s raffle or more information, call Craig at (860) 384-4480 or e-mail suzi@fathom.net.

For direct donations, make checks payable to “CTNGFI” and send to: Connecticut National Guard Foundation, Inc., 360 Broad St., Hartford, 06105-3706

Ted Kennedy Jr. is guest speaker for Read to Grow

Son of the late United States senator will talk about his dad


NEW HAVEN — Ted Kennedy Jr. will be the guest speaker at Read to Grow’s annual luncheon fundraiser at noon Nov. 13 at the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale, 155 Temple St.
The event, for which Jonathan and Josephine Bush are honorary co-chairmen, is sponsored by Citizens Bank, a long-time supporter of the statewide literacy nonprofit, organizers said.
Kennedy, a Greater New Haven resident and son of the late U.S. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, will talk about his father’s autobiography, "True Compass," organizers said.
Read to Grow works to build literacy for all Connecticut children. Last year, it distributed more than 110,000 new and gently used books to youngsters across the state, organizers said.
Tickets start at $100 and include lunch and a copy of the elder Kennedy’s book. Corporate and group tables are available. Read to Grow is offering a $150 seat that includes a $50 donation towards a ticket for an area high school student who otherwise would not be able to attend. For more information, call Read to Grow at (203) 488-6800 or register online at www.readtogrow.org.

Architecture matters at the New Haven Public Library

Book Lover's Luncheon features Pulitzer Prize winning author


NEW HAVEN - Paul Goldberger, architecture critic for The New Yorker magazine’s “SkyLine” column and author of the newly published “Why Architecture Matters,” will be the featured guest at the Patrons of the New Haven Public Library’s Book Lover’s Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 28.

The 2nd annual fundraising luncheon benefiting the public library will be held at Union League Café.

Robert A. M. Stern, dean and J.M. Hoppin Professor, Yale School of Architecture, will facilitate the luncheon discussion on architecture.

For more information and to purchase tickets, call Barbara Segaloff, Library Development Office at (203) 946-8130 ext. 314 or e-mail barbara.segaloff@nhfpl.org

The library also will present Goldberger in a civic conversation focused on Public Architecture at 6 p.m. Oct. 28in the Ives (Main)Branch, 133 Elm St.

Goldberger will be joined by Hartford Courant Columnist Tom Condon. The program is free and open to the public.

Goldberger began his career at The New York Times where his architectural criticism was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Distinguished Criticism in 1984. Author of several books, including his chronicle of the Ground Zero rebuilding process, “Up From Zero: Politics, Architecture and the Rebuilding of New York,” Goldberger’s newest work “Why Architecture Matters” is a handbook on how to look at buildings and view them in their contexts of environment and history.

He is a graduate of Yale University, holds the Joseph Urban Chair in Design at The New School in New York City, and lectures widely on architecture, design, historic preservation and cities.

Finding your sea legs

NEW HAVEN — The New Haven Power Squadron is offering a seamanship class to anyone who holds a boater’s license and would like to further their skills and boating knowledge.
Classes will be held at The Foote Building of The Sound School, 17 Sea St., beginning Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m. For more information call Art Andrea at (203) 468-1210

Spanish Civil War topic of library talk

NEW HAVEN - The public is invited to a discussion with historian Frank DeFina, who will present a talk, "The Wound in the Heart: American Neutrality in the Spanish Civil War 1936-39," at 4:30 p.m. Nov. 12 at the New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St.
DeFina will explore the effect of America's neutrality in the Spanish Civil War on events leading to World War II, the library said.
DeFina has hada varied academic, professional and personal life studying, teaching and traveling in many countries. He earned a bachelor's degree in Education & English from SUNY, a Master's in history from the University of New Mexico, and a doctorate in Spanish-American History from the University of Madrid.
DeFina has taught at all levels here and abroad and served as Study Abroad Director in Seville and Madrid for various American universities and studied and taught at the universities of Madrid, Granda, and Seville, where he was a Fulbright Lecturer.
He also taught English and American Studies at various Chinese universities in Shangahi, Nanjing, Chengdu, and Tianjin. Currently an adjunct professor at Gateway Community College, DeFina is an avid reader and traveler, especially to Spain, whose history and culture continue to intrigue him.
Please register to attend at www.woundinheart.eventbrite.com or call the library at (203) 946-8835.

New Haven police Citizens' Academy seeks applicants

NEW HAVEN — The Police Department is seeking applicants for its Citizens’ Academy that will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. for eight consecutive Wednesdays, beginning on Oct. 28, at the Police Academy, 710 Sherman Parkway.
The program is designed to improve communication and understanding between police and residents, city officials said in a statement. It will give about 35 people an opportunity to work with officers and "get a behind the scenes look at a progressive, community-minded police department," the statement said.
Applications are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays at the Police Academy, Forms a also are available at police substations, the main desk at police headquarters at 1 Union Ave., area libraries and at: www.cityofnewhaven.com.
Completed applications should be dropped off at the Police Academy by Friday. Citizens’ Academy staff will hold extended hours from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday at the academy to answer questions and review applications.
Applicants must be at least 18 by the first day of classes, have no major felony convictions and no convictions involving domestic violence.
Applications will be processed by the Police Department and potential candidates will be subject to a basic criminal history check. Each application will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Participants are required to commit to actively participating in all eight sessions.
For more information, call the Police Academy at (203)-946-6119 or e-mail policeacademy@newhavenct.net.

Are we scared yet?

Spend Halloween with the Peabody

We all know snakes and spiders really are not scary - but nature's little pest controllers will play that role from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 31 at the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, 170 Whitney Ave.

"The Natural History of Witches and Wizards: A Peabody Halloween," is the Peabody’s annual celebration of the animals and nature-based traditions associated with Halloween and will feature creatures like spiders and snakes as well as some of the strangest-looking specimens from the collections.

There also will be mask-making and other fun educational activities, organizers said. The cost is included with Museum admission of $5-7, no charge for children younger than 3.

Mashantucket Pequot Museum executive director to speak in Woodbridge

WOODBRIDGE - The public is invited to the Friends of the Woodbridge Library Annual Purves Lecture at 7 p.m. Oct. 26.

The featured speaker will be Kimberly Hatcher-White, executive director of the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center.

Born and reared in Willimantic, Hatcher-White is a tribal member descended from the Anna Williams family line, and is the youngest daughter of tribal elder Marion Madeline Harris-Hatcher, organizers said in a statement.

Hatcher-White was named executive director in 2006. She has worked extensively with the museum's collections and exhibits, providing for long term care and preservation of the tribe's cultural heritage, the statement said.

She is a magna cum laude graduate of Eastern Connecticut State University, and is completing the certificate program in Museum Studies at Tufts University.

The lecture is free and open to the public.

The Purves Lecture is an annual event sponsored by Friends of the Woodbridge Library. The series was created by the family of Marjorie Purves, a past Friends member, to memorialize her and to perpetuate her love of books, love of great literature and most importantly, to share that love with the Woodbridge community, the statement said.

Hill Reunion lunch next month

NEW HAVEN - You're definitely not over the hill but if you were part of the Hill neighborhood then this is the event for you.
The annual Hill Reunion will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 12 at Anthony's Ocean View, 450 Lighthouse Road. The cost is $27 per person and includes a buffet lunch. There will be a cash bar. For reservations, mail a check to Nick DeMatties, 140 Capt. Thomas Blvd., West Haven, 06516. Deadline is Oct. 30.
There will be no table reservations, so arrive early to save available seating. For more information, call DeMatties at (203) 932-1528.

Columbus House a winner in BlumShapiro 5K

NEW HAVEN - Columbus House shelter for the homeless was one the beneficiaries from the first-ever BlumShapiro 5K for Charity this year.

The shelter on Ella Grasso Boulevard was given a check for $2,500 as part of the mission of the 5K race, to raise money and food donations "to help provide meals, shelter, housing support and other outreach services to the homeless in Connecticut," officials said.

BlumShapiro, an accounting, tax and business consulting firm, has offices in Shelton.

“The BlumShapiro 5K for Charity is a fun way for the whole community to join together and help those in need during these tough economic times,” Tom DeVitto, chief marketing officer of BlumShapiro said in a release. “On both an individual and company-wide basis, we have a strong history of giving back, and we’re glad we can expand our reach by partnering with the Travelers Championship and the PGA TOUR to make this event such a remarkable success.”

The BlumShapiro 5K for Charity benefited a total of four Connecticut-based organizations:· Columbus House; East Hartford Homeless Shelter; Thomas Merton House, Bridgeport; and St. Vincent de Paul Society of Waterbury.

BlumShapiro’s 5K for Charity, which drewmore than 300 runners, raised a total of $10,000 and provided each organization with a donation of $2,500, the release said. Jay Sattler, partner at BlumShapiro, was this year’s 5K winner with a time of 17:23.

With continued support of participants, vendor partners and volunteers, BlumShapiro looks forward to helping more charities through next year’s 5K, as well as through charitable acts throughout the year, the release said. Event sponsors included the Travelers Championship, the Hartford Marathon Group, Nature Valley Granola Bars and Coca-Cola.

BlumShapiro also has offices in West Hartford, Waterbury and Westport.

In the photo: Mike Niedermeier, partner-in-charge of BlumShapiro’s Shelton office, presents John Brooks, director of development at Columbus House, with $2,500.

Connecticut Black Expo Nov. 7

Booths still available

NEW HAVEN - The Connecticut Black Expo 2009 is seeking sponsors and exhibitors for this year’s event, which will take place from noon to 8 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Citywide Fieldhouse, 480 Sherman Parkway.

The event will include health screenings and essential public information, prizes and other giveaways, organizers said.
There also will be special appearances, as well as performances, by Branden "Jus-B" Wilson, and Connecticut’s own ChrisCam International Recording Artist, Earl Whitaker, along with several Gospel soloists and groups.
Admission is $10 for Adults, and $5 for children 12 years of age and younger.

There are about 50 booth spaces still available, and exhibitors are encouraged to make reservations soon. The previous deadline of Oct. 15 has been extended due to the overwhelming response.
Sponsors and exhibitors can call (203) 558-0066, or visit www.ctblackexpo.net
for forms, additional information and updates.
Volunteers also are urged to call to participate.

Strike 3 makes you a winner at this event

NEW HAVEN — Oakland Athletics player and former Red Sox all-star Nomar Garciaparra is the guest speaker for the Strike 3 Foundation second annual First Pitch Celebrity Gala at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Omni New Haven Hotal at Yale, 155 Temple St.
A portion of the evening’s proceeds will be given to Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital to help enhance its Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Program, organizers said in a statement.
"Bone marrow transplant is an area that has transformed the treatment of cancers and diseases that were incurable in the past," Craig Breslow, founder and president of Strike 3 Foundation saind in the statement. "We are looking forward to a wonderful evening of fun and entertainment that will help bring us closer to a day when childhood cancer doesn’t exist."
The Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Program at YNHCH provides care and support to children and their families each year who would otherwise have to travel out-of-state for treatment. Strike 3 has pledged $500,000 to support enhancing the program, the statement said.
"Strike 3’s gift is helping Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital to further develop its exceptional transplant program. Craig and his foundation are dedicated to raising funds and awareness for children battling cancer," Dr. Gary Kupfer, chief of pediatric hematology and oncology at YNHCH said, also in the statement.
The gala features live entertainment and live and silent auctions. Tickets are $185 per person and include parking at the Omni. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit www.strike3foundation.org or call (203) 502-0007.
Breslow, a Trumbull native and Major League baseball player who pitches for the Oakland A’s, founded Strike 3 in 2008. Breslow’s sister is a survivor of childhood cancer and the foundation aims to heighten awareness, mobilize support and raise funding for childhood cancer research.

Wag your tail for a cause

The Wags & Whiskers Animal Welfare Group will hold a benefit night from 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 15 at T.G.I. Friday's, 348 Boston Post Raod, Orange. Twenty percent of the evening proceeds (excluding alcohol, tax, and gratuity) will be donated to Wags & Whiskers Animal Welfare.
To help the cause, a benefit night flier must be presented. To obtain the flier or for more information, call Jim at 937-3642 or e-mail pounddogs@yahoo.com

Bach at its best

NEW HAVEN - Masaaki Suzuki, the renowned conductor and Bach scholar, will conduct the Yale Schola Cantorum in a concert of Bach motets and cantatas at 8 p.m. Oct. 24 at St. Mary’s Church, 5 Hillhouse Ave.

The concert, Maestro Suzuki’s first as newly-appointed director of Yale Schola Cantorum, will include Singet dem Herrn BWV 225; Komm, Jesu, komm BWV 229; Jesu, der du meine Seele BWV 78; and Ein Feste Burg BWV 80, organizers said in a statement.
Since founding Bach Collegium Japan in 1990, Masaaki Suzuki has established himself as a leading authority on the works of Bach. He has remained their music director since, taking them regularly to major venues and festivals in Europe and the USA, and building up an outstanding reputation for the expressive refinement and truth of his performances, the statement said.

He now regularly is invited to work together with renowned European soloists and groups, such as Collegium Vocale Gent and the Freiburger Barockorchester, with whom he visited several European capitals, and recently appeared in London with the Britten Sinfonia in a program of Britten, Mozart and Stravinsky, it said.

Forthcoming engagements with other ensembles include the Hong Kong Philharmonic, the Nagoya Philharmonic and the Netherlands Radio Chamber Philharmonic Orchestras.
Suzuki’s impressive discography on the BIS label, featuring Bach’s complete works for harpsichord, and his interpretations of Bach’s major choral works and sacred cantatas with Bach Collegium Japan, of which he has already completed over forty volumes of a project to record the complete series, have brought him many critical plaudits, the statement said.
The free concert is presented by Yale Institute of Sacred Music; no tickets are required. More information is online at www.yale.edu/ism or by calling (203) 432-5062.

The Sound of Hope

NEW HAVEN — Domestic Violence Services of Greater New Haven will hold its 10th Annual Sound of Hope event from 1 to 2 p.m. Oct. 7 at Long Wharf Pier. The annual event is free and open to the public and is held in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and to commemorate victims and survivors of domestic violence.
Last year, DVS provided emergency shelter, crisis services, counseling, advocacy and other support services to more than 7,000 women and children in Greater New Haven, Milford and the shoreline.
Scheduled speakers for the event include state Attorney General Richard Blumenthal; New Haven Board of Alderman President Carl Goldfield; state Rep. Milford, Barbara Lambert, D-Milford; Tirzah Kemp, of STRIVE New Haven; and Pam Nuchols of Guilford Youth and Family Services, organizers said. Testimonials from domestic violence survivors are planned, as is a reading of names of state residents who lost their lives to domestic violence in the past year. Participants will receive a flower to throw into the harbor; each flower represents hopes and struggles of survivors as they work to end violence in their lives and honors those who died due to domestic violence. The event will culminate with a bagpipe procession and light snack.
For more information about DVS or the event, call (203) 865-1957, or the DVS 24-hour crisis hotline at (203) 789-8104, or visit www.dvsgnh.org. DVS is a program of Birmingham Group Health Services, Inc.

Gateway president to receive two major awards

NEW HAVEN — Gateway Community College President Dr. Dorsey L. Kendrick has been selected to receive two prestigious awards this fall, one from the Connecticut Women’s Education and Legal Fund, the other from the Connecticut State Conference of NAACP Branches, the college said in a statement.

Kendrick will be one of five women who receive the CWEALF Maria Stewart Award on Oct. 6 at the CWEALF’s “One Woman Makes a Difference” Dinner at the Crowne Plaza in Cromwell, the statement said.

The award is given to women who are courageous, inspiring and talented leaders, as well as role models for their efforts to advance the cause of equality in Connecticut, it said.

Kendrick also was selected as one of the “100 Most Influential Blacks in Connecticut” by the Connecticut State Conference of NAACP Branches. The organization will honor award recipients Nov. 6 at its annual convention at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods in Ledyard, an event that also will celebrate the organization’s 100th birthday. The award honors individuals whose efforts transcend their profession or position and command national or statewide influence that affects African Americans.

Kendrick, a New Haven resident, has served as GCC president since 1999. Since then, enrollment rose from fewer than 3,000 students to more than 6,000. Reared in Jackson, Tenn., Kendrick was one of three students in 1967 to integrate Union University, where she later earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, the statement said. She also holds a master’s degree in business management from Cardinal Stritch University, a doctorate in philosophy in higher education administration from Walden University, and is a graduate of the Institute of Education Management at Harvard University. Kendrick was the first African-American woman to hold the position of associate dean and dean of the School of Business at Milwaukee Area Technical College. She went on to become the highest-ranking African-American woman in Wisconsin’s system of higher education as executive vice president of Milwaukee Area Technical College, the statement said.

Martin Luther King Community Service Awards

NEW HAVEN - Yale-New Haven Hospital has awarded the first three $1,000 Martin Luther King Community Service Awards to New Haven students who are setting examples in their community

Recipients are: Kaneez Anwar, a junior at Career High School, and Avital Silverman and Crystal Ayala, both students at Wilbur Cross High School.

YNHH's service award program honors the legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., by providing scholarships to eligible high school students, as well as grants to New Haven elementary schools, the hospital said in a statement.

To qualify, students must log 20 or more hours of uncompensated community service and write a description of how their experiences helped them appreciate the differences in others, the statement said.

"A scholarship can really make a positive difference in a young person's life - and ultimately in our community," Pat Worthy, manager of workforce diversity at YNHH, said in the statement. "This is a perfect way for us to honor Dr. King - by finding and celebrating the next generation of community leaders."

Yale-New Haven has mailed grant applications to all public elementary school principals and will announce recipients at the end of November. The grants will support educational programs and activities that build on King's philosophy and goal of inclusion, teach the value of diversity and tolerance and bring people of different backgrounds together, the statement said.

Shown in the photo, l-r, are: Paul Patton, vice president of human resources at YNHH; Kaneez Anwar; Pat Worthy, manager, workforce diversity, YNHH; and Michael Ceraso, principal, Career High School.

Foodies: this book talk is yours

NEW HAVEN - The Elm Street Book Group has chosen the book "Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise," a New York Times Bestseller by Ruth Reichl as its selection for the October meeting from 6 to 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at the New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St.

The discussion will be facilitated by Sue Hartt, seminar leader and founder of Writing Matters!

Copies of the book are available at the library for checkout.

The Elm Street Book Group meets monthly at the library to discuss books that are selected from a list provided by The CT Humanities Council.

The group is open to the public but space is limited, and registration is required at http://www.octbookgroup.eventbrite.com/.

Blue State Coffee on Wall Street provides coffee or tea for pick-up prior to the discussion. Beverage coupons will be e-mailed to registered participants.

For more information, call the library at (203) 946-8835.

Reichl, food critic and editor-in-chief of Gourmet magazine also was a food critic for The New York Times.

A special spruce?

NEW HAVEN — The Department of Parks, Recreation and Trees is seeking a special tree to be the centerpiece on the Green during the winter holidays. The tree must be 55 to 70 feet high and should be a Norway spruce or Douglas fir; not a blue spruce. The donated tree will be removed from the property free of charge.

Trees between 25 and 40 feet high will be considered for future years or other sites.
To donate a tree, call Christy Hass at the department’s Maintenance Division at 946-8576.

Help Hillhouse win Live United Story Contest

NEW HAVEN — United Way of Greater New Haven has submitted a video of the James Hillhouse High School football team’s United Way’s Days of Action demolition project to the Live United Story Contest.
To vote for the video, "Champions On and Off the Field," visit hillhousechampions.uwgnh.org, and click register in the blue box on the right side of the screen. Then join to create an account, and click vote on the top left side of the video. Supporters can log in once a day and vote, through midnight Sept. 30.
The winner of the contest will be featured in a United Way commercial in 2010.

Petflix Film Festival: how pets help people

You have a pet and you know it's the cutest of its kind.

But pets are way more than just a pretty face and a new pet-themed film festival aims to prove it - possibly with your help.
Soul Friends, Inc, a statewide nonprofit psychotherapy and educational organization that helps at risk children with interactive activities, including therapy animals, will premiere its first pet-themed film festival from 10 a.m. to noon, Nov. 21 at Showcase Cinemas in North Haven. The charity is asking for submissions of short films that demonstrate how animals help people feel better.
“We regularly experience the healing power of animals in our daily work with children and adolescents,” Kate Nicoll, executive director of Soul Friends, Inc., said in a statement. “By hosting this mainstream inaugural film festival, we hope to show the entire state of Connecticut what our clients have already learned…life is more enriching interacting with animals.”
To officially enter the Petflix Film Festival, pet lovers and aspiring filmmakers are encouraged to submit a video that is less than five 5 long, or within the 5-10 minute category.
An independent panel of judges will score the film shorts based on originality, cinematography, message and overall theme, the statement said. The top three entries from each category will then be screened as part of the two-hour film festival. Participants may submit more than one entry, the statement said.
“Besides seeing some of Connecticut’s new shining stars on the big screen, attendees will also learn about local animal rescue groups, animal sanctuaries and other non-profit organizations that promote and preserve the healing benefits of the animal-human bond,” Nicoll said in the statement.
The entry fees for a Petflix film short submission is $15. Tickets to the event are $5 in advance and $8 the day of the show. Visit http://www.soul-friends.org/ to register and for more information.
Soul Friends, Inc. has since 2003 "served more than 3,000 children impacted by grief, trauma, loss and/or social emotional challenges by integrating nature and animals in individual or group psychotherapy," the statement said. Services include interactive animal assisted psychotherapy, dog training for special needs children, equine assisted psychotherapy and crisis response therapy dogs, it said.

True crime writer coming to Connecticut

Bestselling author Casey Sherman will sign copies of his new true crime thriller "Bad Blood" at the 36th Annual New England Independent Booksellers Association Annual Meeting and Trade Show at 1 p.m. on Oct. 1 at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

About Casey Sherman: The Simon & Schuster Web site says, "Casey Sherman is the author of two novels, "Black Irish" and "Black Dragon." He’s also the author of the acclaimed true crime thriller "A Rose for Mary: The Hunt for the Real Boston Strangler, " his investigation into his aunt’s murder.

Sherman has been nominated for an Emmy Award, has appeared on dozens of national television programs and has been profiled by numerous magazines and newspapers.

He also is the author of the nonfiction work, “The Finest Hours: The True Story of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Most Daring Sea Rescue.” (Scribner). Co-written with Michael J. Tougias, it recounts the story of the blizzard of February 1952, when two ships collided off the coast of Cape Cod and the rescue mission that unfolded on the high seas. Sherman lives in Massachusetts.

Does the mystery live on?

Find out more about the kidnapping and murder of the Lindbergh baby in an event at the library

Forensic Document Examiner Ana Kyle will discuss facets of the Lindbergh case 6 p.m. Sept. 30 at New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St.

IT all started on March 1, 1932, when the toddler son of aviator Charles Lindbergh and Anne Morrow Lindbergh was abducted from his home in East Amwell, N.J. More than two months later, his boy's body was discovered a short distance from the Lindbergh home. A medical examination determined that the toddler died from a "massive fracture of the skull."
After an investigation that lasted more than two years, Bruno Richard Hauptmann was charged with the crime. The trial lasted more than a year, and on Feb. 13, 1935, Hauptmann was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to die. Though he proclaimed his innocence, he was executed by electric chair at the New Jersey State Prison on April 3, 1936.
Newspaper writer H.L. Mencken called the kidnapping and subsequent trial "the biggest story since the Resurrection."


The crime spurred Congress to pass the Federal Kidnapping Act, commonly called the "Lindbergh Law," that made transporting a kidnapping victim across state lines a federal crime.

Ana Kyle is a court-certified document examiner with 36 years of experience in the field of questioned documents and psychological profiling through handwriting. She is the author of "The Dead Poets Plus One: the Lindbergh Kidnap Case" (2004), and "Two Men and One Pair of Shoes : The Trial of Richard Hauptmann" (2007).

The information contained here was provided by the New Haven Public Library, only very lightly edited by Elm City Express

Bruce's Ride to benefit St. Raphael cancer center

The Saint Raphael Foundation has will hold a new benefit for the Father Michael J. McGivney Center for Cancer Care, a bicycling event in Branford called “Bruce’s Ride” on Oct. 4 at Owenego Beach and Tennis Club in Branford.

The ride features 10-, 25- and 55-mile courses for cyclists of all ages and abilities, organizers said.

Dr. Steven Angelo, M.D., director of Saint Raphael’s Hospitalist Program, is chairman of the event, which is named for his father-in-law, Bruce Pantani, a beloved Branford native and building contractor who died of lung cancer in 2008, organizers said.

“The recent death of my father-in-law really opened my eyes to the tremendous needs of cancer patients and their families,” Angelo said in a statement. “As an avid cyclist, my dream of organizing a premier Shoreline bicycling event seemed like the perfect way to remember Bruce, raise cancer awareness and support Saint Raphael’s cancer patients.”

Bruce’s Ride is sponsored by B. Pantani and Sons Builders and Branford Building Supplies and proceeds will benefit the Father Michael J. McGivney Center for Cancer Care. Supporters include Paul and Co., Drescher Insurance, W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home and Ritch, Greenberg and Hassan, P.C. Additional support is needed and sponsorship categories are available from $100 to $5,000.

The family-friendly event begins at 6:45 a.m., with registration for the 55-mile ride, followed by staggered start times for the 10- and 25-mile rides. A picnic-style lunch follows at noon and features family entertainment and waterfront dining. Registration to participate as a cyclist is $50 for adults and $25 for children ages 13 to 18. There is no charge for children younger than 12, but they must be accompanied by an adult. All cyclists will receive a commemorative T-shirt, complimentary refreshments, road assistance throughout the course and a continental breakfast and lunch, organizers said.

For more information or to register for Bruce’s Ride, call the Saint Raphael Foundation at (203) 789-3316 or visit http://www.active.com/ and search for “Bruce’s Ride.”

In the photo: Bruce’s Ride planning committee members include, l to r, Laura, Dennis, Johanne, Bruce and Renee Pantani (seated) and Dr. Robert Nardino, Bill Albinger, and Dr. Steven and Donna Angelo.

Disaster prep information fair at Yale-New Haven Hospital Thursday

NEW HAVEN — As September is National Preparedness Month, and to encourage the public to prepare for a disaster or emergencies, the Yale New Haven Health System office of emergency preparedness will hold an informational fair from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, Sept. 10, in the atrium of Yale-New Haven Hospital, 20 York St.

OEP staff will answer questions, show visitors how to prepare a kit for use in the event of a disaster and have information available to help individuals and families better prepare for an emergency.
The information fair is free and open to the public. For more information, those interested should call Eugenie Schwartz, BSN, Medical Reserve Corps Program Coordinator, OEP, 688-3224 or e-mail center@ynhh.org.

Come watch The Princess Bride!

NEW HAVEN - The SoHu Block Watch Association will act as host for a showing of the movie "The Princess Bride" at 8 p.m. Sept. 4 the College Woods section of East Rock Park.

The event is free, as it was paid for by donations from Cafe Romeo's, Amadeus Center for Health, Nica's Market, and P&M Orange Food Market.

International Hugo Kauder Competition to be held Sept. 11

The Hugo Kauder Society will present its 5th annual International Hugo Kauder Competition from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Neighborhood Music School, 100 Audubon St.

Ten woodwind players including flutists, clarinetists, and oboists, under the age of 35 and of various nationalities, have been selected to perform in front of a distinguished live jury, organizers said.

The musicians will compete for first, second and third place by performing classical music pieces composed by Hugo Kauder, as well as classical, romantic, and contemporary works, organizers said. Cash prizes will be awarded. They will be accompanied on piano by last year’s Piano Competition winner, Ryo Yanagitani. The first prize winner also will receive a concert
opportunity in New York City.
The distinguished Competition judges are Richard Stoltzman of New England Conservatory,
Joanne Baxtresser of Carnegie Mellon University and Doris Goltzer of New York City Opera.
The Prize Winners Concert will begin at 2 p.m. Sept. 12, at Firehouse 12, 45 Crown St.
The Hugo Kauder Society’s mission is to foster awareness and appreciation for the work of
Viennese composer Hugo Kauder (1888-1972), to create opportunities for emerging musicians to
gain wider exposure, and to provide the audience with the unique opportunity to be present at
premieres of Kauder’s musical works, organizers said in a statement. Hugo Kauder came to the United States as a refugee in 1940 and many of his works have not yet been performed publicly. Several pieces performed in this competition will be world or United States premieres, the statement said.
The public is invited to attend the competition, which is free, as well as the Prize Winners
Concert (suggested contribution $10).
For more information, visit www.hugokauder.org.
The members of the Hugo Kauder Society, Inc. Board of Directors are Norman Dee, Helen Kauder, Nina Kauder, Abram Kreeger, Luis Vargas and Siegmund Levarie, emeritus.

Free seminar for job seekers

NEW HAVEN - A two-hour seminar for job seekers, "Careers Forward: Job Finding in a Tough Economy," will be presented by Marcia LaReau, from 2 to 4 p.m. Sept. 29 at the New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St.


LaReau, president of Forward Motion (http://www.forward-motion.biz/), will cover job application essentials, interview preparation and networking.


There is no charge, but registration is required at http://www.careersforward.eventbrite.com/ or call the library at 946-7431.

Your friendly neighborhood firefighter

Might be from Orange or West Haven



Staff from the Orange Fire Marshal's office, and an engine and crew from West Haven's West Shore Fire District made some news friends recently with a visit to the Bright Horizons at Yale West Campus.


The public fire safety education event included about 25 children, who were given lessons in fire safety such as "Stop, Drop, and Roll," and how to escape a fire should one occur in their homes, Orange Fire Marshal Timothy Smith said.


The children also had a chance to tour the newest piece of fire equipment that West Shore Fire Department recently purchased. The daycare is located on the Yale West campus, and the response to this facility for fire is handled by both Orange and West Shore fire units.


Working together with neighboring fire agencies has become standard with many communities, and this event was a perfect example of this cooperation, officials said.

Veteran New Haven educator takes post at Gateway

NEW HAVEN - A retired educator with more than 40 years of experience in Greater New Haven has joined Gateway Community College’s new Center for Working Students as its coordinator, the college said in a statement.

James M. Boger has a doctorate in educational administration from Columbia University. He retired from the New Haven public schools in 2004 after 34 years in a variety of positions, including principal at various secondary schools and director of adult education, the position from which he retired, GCC said in a statement. While director of adult education, Boger created a transition program with GCC to help students get a head start with their college studies. In Boger also previously was director of program implementation at Dr. James Comer’s School Development Program, which is part of Yale University’s Child Studies Center. Additionally, he has been an adjunct professor at Columbia University’s Teachers College, the statement said.

“Although I was enjoying my retirement, the opportunity to help launch this kind of unique, integrated assistance to the Gateway community was just too compelling to pass up,” Boger said in the statement. “This program will help students easily access a spectrum of services they would otherwise have to navigate on their own and provide the follow-up they need to reach their academic goals.”

GCC’s Center for Working Students was created this year through a grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation. The center provides GCC students with a comprehensive set of services and support designed to help them complete a college degree, earn more money, and ultimately provide better futures for their families and children. It acts as a concierge resource, connecting students to academic support services, career planning services, income and work support services, and financial literacy services.

For more information, visit http://www.gwcc.commnet.edu/.

Free computer class at Gateway

NEW HAVEN — A free eight-week course for the "computer illiterate" will be held at Gateway Community College beginning Sept. 14 at the Long Wharf Campus.
Designed for those with no previous computer skills, classes will meet once a week for two hours. Enrollment is very limited and senior citizens are welcome. Registration forms are available in the reception area at Gateway’s Long Wharf Campus. Participants are ask to register by Sept. 11.

Voter registration hours extended

NEW HAVEN — The Registrars of Voters office will extend its hours for issues pursuant to participation in the Democratic primaries for the Board of Aldermen, from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 1. at 200 Orange St., second floor.The mandatory primary enrollment session will be held for voter registration, enrollment in a party, change of address and to hear requests, from persons removed from voting lists, for adding names to the registry list. The office also is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.