Seth Haley school in West Haven will be having a Winter Carnival/Craft Fair Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be children's carnival games and craft activities, food, a white elephant booth, craft vendors and much more.
If vendors are interested in renting a table, there is still space available. The fee is $35 for space with table, chair and tablecloth. For further details contact Janet at 934-5678 or Cheryl at 627-9057.
The Fall Lecture Series sponsored by the Ward-Heitmann House Museum, West Haven, will kickoff on Thursday, Nov. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Basement Room of the West Haven City Hall, 355 Main St. Connecticut State Archeologist Nicholas Bellantoni, current director of the West Haven Cove River Project and specialist on Connecticut and Native American History, will lecture on " Vampires in Connecticut." Admission is free to museum members; all others, $5. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 203-937-9823 for reservations.
Food drive for WHEAT
Hughson-Miller American Legion Auxiliary Unit 71 will be having a food drive to help West Haven Emergency Assistance Taskforce. The auxiliary will be collecting nonperishable food items. Event will take place at Legion Post 337 Main St. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
JFS Celebrates National Adoption Awareness Month
Jewish Family Service of New Haven is hosting an Adoption Open House on Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Interested families and individuals will have the opportunity to learn about the various types of adoption, learn about the children waiting for a "forever" family and hear about the home study process. Older child adoption, domestic adoption, infant adoption, intercountry adoption, DCF adoption, medically complex and special needs adoptions will be discussed.
This November open house is scheduled in conjunction with National Adoption Awareness Month. Refreshments will be served.
JFS serves Connecticut residents of all faiths, ages and backgrounds. For more information or to register for this free open house, contact Margaliet Ligtenstein at 203-389-5599, ext. 105 or Amy Rashba, ext. 113.
Volunteer Firefighters selling 2009 Entertainment Books
North End Hose Co. 3 of the West Haven Fire Department is selling the popular Entertainment book to raise funds for company equipment and training.
Each Entertainment book contains $1,000s in 2-for-1 and up to 50 percent off discount offers from local and national restaurants, hotels and resorts. More than 160 editions are available across the U.S. and Canada.
The New Haven/New London/Middlesex County edition includes offers for, among others, discount movies at National Amusements and other local cinemas, monthly grocery saving at local supermarkets, Subway, McDonalds, Dunkin Donuts and many more. Books are also available online for discounts in Hartford or Fairfield County, as well as all 50 states.
Books cost $25, with a portion of the proceeds from every book supporting North End Hose Co. 3. To purchase a copy of the New Haven/New London/Midlesex County Entertainment book, contact Frank Meyer of the North End Hose Co. 3 at 203-937-3718 or nehco3whfd@aol.com.
Volunteer Firefighters holding a Hockey Fundraiser
The North End Hose Co. 3 volunteers of the West Haven Fire Department are holding a family fun night at the Bridgeport Sound Tigers Hockey game on Friday, Nov. 28, at 7 p.m.
The Sound Tigers will host the Hartford Wolfpack at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport. Great seats are available for a discounted price $17.50, the volunteers will receive $5 for every ticket sold and will save $10.50 per seat.
Bring your family and friends for a great night of instate hockey rivalry and support your local volunteer firefighters.
To purchase tickets contact Capt. Frank Meyer at 203-937-3718 or nehco3whfd@aol.com. To host a family fun night for your organization contact Joanne Sjogren at 203-494-9891.
Locket's Meadow Stalls of Horror
Locket's Meadow will host their seventh annual Stalls of Horror Haunted Barn Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25, from sundown until 9:45 p.m. rain or shine, at their farm, 771 Litchfield Turnpike, Bethany. There will be 18 stalls filled with spooks, ghouls, and other terrors, (not recommended for small children). Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission to the barn is $8; psychic readings $10 for 10 minutes. For the small fry: bring them to the costume party Oct. 25, from noon to 3 p.m. in the indoor arena. Children can show off their costumes while the ponies show off theirs. There will be games, prizes, food, pageantry and pony rides; $4 admission, $4 for a pony ride. Patrons may bring their cameras.
All proceeds benefit Rescues Who Rescue, a nonprofit 510©3 organization dedicated to rescuing PMU horses from slaughter and rehabilitating them to work in therapeutic riding and equine-assisted psychotherapy programs at Locket's Meadow Farm. Also, Farm Animal Support Team, a division of RWR that rescues other at-risk farm animals and trains them to work in animal-assisted therapy programs. For information, call 203-393-1853, or visit www.locketsmeadowfarm.com.
St. Lawrence craft fair Oct. 25
St. Lawrence School, 231 Main St., will sponsor its annual craft fair Saturday, Oct. 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be more than 30 vendors on-site. Biagi beads, jewelry, basket raffles, food, bake sale and much more will be available.
Foxwoods Casino trip Nov. 3
The West Haven Italian American Club Seniors will sponsor a trip to Foxwoods Casino Monday, Nov. 3, at 7:30 a.m. The cost is $20 per person and includes bus, gratuity and bonus package coupons as follows: a $10 food voucher or free buffet, and one $15 keno coupon. For reservations, call Mickey at 1-203-878-1886.
Harvest Dance
The Savin Rock Fireworks Committee is hosting a harvest dance on Nov. 8, from 7 a.m. to noon at St. John Vianneys. A $20 donation includes dancing, dj, and raffle. Those interested should call dawn for tickets 203-605-0589.
Holiday bazaar at church on the Green
Handmade Christmas decorations, a yarn boutique, raffles for themed-baskets, homemade pies, cakes, cookies and more are available at the 16th annual Holiday Bazaar at Trinity Episcopal Church on the Green, corner of Temple and Chapel streets, New Haven. The bazaar opens Thursday, Nov. 20 from noon to 8 p.m. and continues Friday, Nov. 21 and Saturday, Nov. 22 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. It also features a huge tag sale and silent auction. Homemade lunch and snacks are offered for sale each day. The proceeds will be used for the restoration of the stained windows in the church. Free parking is available after 4 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday in Yale University lots.
Menunkatuck Audubon Society meeting
A meeting of the Menunkatuck Audubon Society will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Nathanael Greene Community Center, Route 77, Guilford, at 7.30 p.m. Jason Hawley, wildlife technician with the Ct. Dept. of Environmental Protection will present a program "Coyotes and Bobcats in Connecticut." By now, most everyone in our state has seen a coyote but many would be surprised to learn that bobcats live in Connecticut too. Join us to learn more about these elusive creatures. Hawley will share his knowledge and experiences with these top predators. The meeting is free and open to the public, refreshments will be served. For additional information call the Audubon Society at 203-457-1699. Menunkatuck Audubon is the local chapter of the National Audubon Society serving Madison, Guilford, Branford, New Haven, East Haven and West Haven.
Blessing of the Animals
Rev. Nancy Leckerling of The First Congregational Church (on the green) will offer a Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, Oct. 26, 1 p.m., outside the narthex doors. Because pets and other animals play a significant role in our lives, we recognize and bless them! All pets (on leashes or in a box, please) and their owners (all ages) are invited.
Tip-a-cop fundraiser
The saying "serve and protect" takes on a new meaning Friday, Oct. 24, as members of the West Haven Police Department volunteer their time to serve your delicious lunch or dinner at Duffys Tavern, 241 Campbell Ave., all for a great cause - Special Olympics Connecticut.
Members of the West Haven Police Department will serve as celebrity hosts and waiters during lunch and dinner and the "Tips" the officers receive will be donated to Connecticut Special Olympics. "Tip-A-Cop" is one of many ways that law enforcement officers raise funds and public awareness for Special Olympics. Last year, over $1,400 was raised at Duffy's Tavern and this year we hope to top that total.
Come and join the fun at either lunch, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., or dinner, 5 to 10 p.m.
Card party at Elks Lodge
West Haven Emblem Club 45 will host their annual card party Thursday, Oct. 23, at 7 p.m. at the West Haven Elks Lodge, 265 Main St. Admission is $5. There will be door prizes and a raffle. For information and tickets, call Kelly at 933-6770.
Halloween Hop fundraiser dance
West Haven Boy Scout Association Pack 213 is hosting an annual halloween hop fundraiser dance, Saturday, Oct. 25, 8 p.m. to midnight, at St. John Vianney Hall on Captain Thomas Boulevard. Music will be provided by Flashback. Support the Boy Scouts while enjoying a fun parents' night out. Tickets are $15 per person. Bring your own refreshments.
For tickets or information, call Rose at 203 932-5059 or Wendy at 203-745-4073.
Cook and Care Walk-A-Thon
To help raise funds for DESK, as well as three other community organizations, New Haven's Center Church on the Green and other organizations are participating in The 12th Annual Cook and Care Walk-A-Thon Sunday, Oct. 19, 1 p.m. The Walk-A-Thon will help raise funds for DESK as well as Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers, Community Soup Kitchen and FISH of Greater New Haven. The walk begins at Edgerton Park, at the corner of Whitney Ave. and Cliff St., in New Haven. The church also helps serve weekly meals at Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen. For more information about the church or services, visit NewHavenCenterChurch.org or call 203-787-0121.
Oktoberfest Dinner Dance
The Harugari German-American Society's Annual Indoor Oktoberfest will be held Saturday, Oct. 25, at the society's hall, 66 Highland St. Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. and go until 12:30 a.m. Dinner for the night will be a Kassler Rippchen (Smoked Pork) dinner with coffee and cake for dessert. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m. and will be followed by the Mountain Tops who will play for your dancing and listening pleasure at 8 p.m. Special entertainment will be presented by the Harugari Jr. Schuhplattlers and HSV Bavaria who will be performing their Bavarian dancing at the band break. Advanced reservations are requested for this annual event. Cost of the event is $20 for non-members and $15 for members. Call Ruth Purvis at 203-933-2424, Stan Pokora at 203-843-2244 or the society at 203-933-9930, or visit www.harugari.org for more information.
The Harugari German-American Society promotes the family, the customs and tradition of its members and ancestors through song, dance, good food and friendship. We invite everyone to join us and attend our gatherings.
Sacred Heart Academy Entrance Exam
The Sacred Heart Academy Entrance Exam will take place Saturday, Nov. 1, from 8 a.m. to noon on the school's campus at 265 Benham St. in Hamden. All students applying for grades 9 and 10 are required to take the entrance exam. To register for the exam, both parts of the application for admission must be submitted to the Office of Admission before Oct. 29 along with a $40 fee. For an application or for information regarding admission contact Elaine Lamboley, director of admissions, 288-2309, ext. 307. Applications can be accessed on the school's Web site at www.sha-excelsior.org.
Class of 1988
West Haven High School class of 1988 is celebrating its 20-year reunion Saturday, Nov. 8, 7 p.m. to midnight, at Westwoods Ballroom on Chase Lane. Tickets are $60 per person. For more information, e-mail westies88@gmail.com or visit the class Web site at www.westies88.bravehost.com.
Your opinion counts
West Haven Senior Center, 201 Noble Street, is seeking 10 volunteers who are homeowners aged 62 years or older to share opinions and points of view regarding reverse mortgage promotional and advertising material, Wednesday, Oct. 22, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Participants will be compensated $25. For more information or to RSVP, call Mary or Evelyn at 877-787-6894.
Team esprit offering entertainment book
Team Esprit, an area competitive figure skating team, is now offering the popular Entertainment Book 2009 for sale for $25 ($5 below the retail price). The book includes savings on family fun activities and shows, shopping services, formal and casual dining, movies, cleaners, auto services, etc. To save for yourself and support Team Esprit, contact any team member, or call 248-1111 to purchase books which will be delivered to you or for more information.
Bradley Point Garden Club
The Bradley Point Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 21, at noon in the former Senior Center in the lower level of West Haven City Hall. Luncheon will be served before a Holiday Ornament workshop. Bradley Point tees and sweatshirts will be available. People interested in becoming members are welcome -- for information about the club call 203-932-1336.
Astronomical Society plans viewing nights
The Astronomical Society of New Haven plans a pair of free family public viewing nights Friday, Oct. 17, and Saturday, Oct. 18. First on Friday, ASNH members will be set up for a special night time viewing event at Silver Sands State Park in Milford. From the parking lot, look for the sign pointing to the viewing area.
Then on Saturday, Oct. 18, the Society will be at Young's Pond Park in Branford. On both evenings, members will point their telescopes at the Moon, Venus, Jupiter and the stars. Members will also point out the constellations and any other passing satellites.
Both events start at 7 p.m. Parking and admission is free. Families are welcome. The parks are open late for these events. Rain or heavy clouds will cancel. Donations are always appreciated. For more information and directions, goto www.asnh.org.
Allingtown Senior Center highlights
Allingtown Seniors are planning the following trips: Thursday, Nov. 6 Country Jamboree featuring Crooked Ledge Band and special performance by "Fiddlin Ed" at Grand Oak Villa in Oakville. The trip includes family-style lunch and all gratuities; bus at 10:15 a.m.; cost $62; Wednesday, Nov. 19, Pilgrim Fest at White's of Westport, Mass., includes entertainer showman "Bobby Justin" family-style dinner and all gratuities; bus at 8:30 a.m.; cost is $58; Tuesday, Nov. 18, Mohegan Sun Casino $20 bonus $10 voucher or full buffet, $20 wheel bet; bus 8 a.m. Monday, Oct. 20 Aqua Turf "Running in the 20s" great meal and entertainment; bus 9:45 a.m. cost $48. Call 937-3509 for more details. All trips leave from Allingtown Senior Center, 1 Forest Road.
Eligible veterans offered flu vaccine
Eligible veterans can receive the flu vaccine from VA Connecticut Healthcare System at flu shot clinics scheduled over the next eight weeks. The clinics are as follows: Excluding weekends, Veterans Day, Nov. 11 and Thanksgiving, Nov. 27, a walk-in clinic will be open at the West Haven campus, 950 Campbell Ave., from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the main lobby of Building 2.
Veterans must be enrolled for care with VA Connecticut Healthcare System. Identification is required. No appointment is necessary.
Biannual country store Oct. 25
The 23rd biannual country store will take place Saturday, Oct. 25, at Grace Lutheran Church of Stratford (some members are from New Haven County) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. rain or shine at 150 Chapel St. Stratford. Admission and parking is free. There will be vendors on-site and homemade crafts. Also, "Twice is Nice" shop, Vermont Cheese Shop, a bake shop full of tasty homemade treats, gift basket raffle and a country café offering a lunch menu. New this year is the Book Nook and Clothesline shop with nearly new and gently used clothing. The public is invited. The area is handicap-accessible. For more information, call 203-375-3151.
Autumn Fantasy dinner dance Nov. 1
The West Haven Italian-American Civic Association Auxiliary will host its 48th anniversary Autumn Fantasy dinner dance Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Westwoods/West Haven Italian -American Club Banquet Hall located at 85 Chase Lane. A full-course, sit-down dinner with dessert and coffee will be served by Cusano by Alphonsina at 6:30 p.m., followed with music by Triple Play for dancing from 8 to 11:30 p.m. The open-bar affair is $35 and reservations are required. Call ticket chairwoman Claudia Lucia at 934-2361.
Vendors wanted for Christmas Fair
Unit 71 American Legion Auxiliary is seeking vendors for their annual Christmas Fair Saturday, Dec. 13, at the American Legion Building, 337 Main St. Table spaces are avialable for a fee of $20 per space. Vendors are asked to bring their own tables as they will not be supplied. Interested participants may contact Judi Girard at 874-8416 to recieve an application.
The fair will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Baked goods, soda, coffee and tea will be available for purchase.
Last call for crafters' fair Oct. 25
St. Lawrence School has a few more available spaces for their annual craft fair Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 937-0081.
The wolves are comingback to Savin Rock
A celebration of native culture and local history, sponsored by the Ward-Heitmann House Museum, will take place Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Savin Rock Conference Center, 5 Rock St. Admission is $5 at the door; children under 10 are free. Guest speaker Connecticut Archaeologist Dr. Lucy Anne Lavin from the Institute for American Indian Studies will lecture at 11 a.m. Renowned native flutist Joseph Firecrow will perform at noon. The popular wolves from the New York Wolf Conservation Organization will appear at 1 p.m. The magnificent wild birds of Wind Over Wings will be on display at 3 p.m.
Author Dale Carson will demonstrate native cooking, and exhibits will include the Peabody Museum, the Department of Environmental Protection, the Institute of American Indian Studies and surrounding towns' historical societies. Native New England Baskets will be on display in addition to native jewelry and crafts. New England native soups and breads will be available for purchase.
For additional information, call 203-937-9823 or e-mail wardheitmann@sbcglobal.net.
West Haven Lions fundraiser
The West Haven Lions are hosting an Evening of Wine Tasting sponsored by Forest Package, Oct. 24, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Savin Rock Conference Center, Captain Thomas Boulevard. Join the Lions for a fun, relaxing evening to sample wines and beers from many regions around the world, a variety of appetizers from our local restaurants, music and a raffle. Tickets are $20 per person. All proceeds will be used for community needs. For tickets and information, call 203-933-2812.
Oktoberfest Beer Tasting
The New Haven Oratorio Choir & Orchestra presents its 3rd Annual Oktoberfest Beer Tasting Sunday, Oct. 26, 3 to 6 p.m., at Delaney's Grille and Taproom, 882 Whalley Ave, New Haven. The event features five authentic Oktoberfest and imported German beers, live entertainment by Schachtelgebirger Musikanten, all-you-can-eat appetizers and a raffle. Tickets are $30 in advance; $35 at the door. Visit www.newhavenoratorio.org or call 203-444-8538 for more information.
Can & Bottle Drive
The Jonathan Law High School Marching Band & Color Guard will have their monthly redeemable Can & Bottle Drive Saturday, Oct. 18, 9 to 11 a.m., in the schools student parking lot at 20 Lansdale Ave, Milford.
St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee fundraiser
The Greater New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee will benefit from a night of musical entertainment by the popular band, "The Mickey Finns" Friday, Oct. 24, 9 p.m., at Anna Liffey's. A good night is planned for all! A $5 cover charge will be donated to the parade committee toward their "Save the Parade" efforts. For information, contact Jim McGovern, parade chairman, at 203-605-7674.
Alliance Childrens' Theatre
The Alliance Childrens' Theatre will be putting on "Suessical Jr." at the Wilson Library, 303 Washington Ave., New Haven, Saturday, Oct. 25, at 2:30 p.m. Admission is free, while donations will be accepted. For more information, contact ACT at 203-932-7085 or 203-435-4651, or visit the Web site at www.alliancechildrenstheater.org.
Fundraisers scheduled for Savin Rock Fireworks
The following events have been scheduled for the benefit of the July Savin Rock fireworks: Saturday, Oct. 18, Mohegan bus trip which leaves at 5 p.m. from Savin Rock Plaza, call Artie for tickets at 376-0539; Saturday, Nov. 8, Harvest Dance at St. John Vianney, 7 p.m. to midnight, (BYOB, call Dawn for tickets at 605-0589, includes disc jockey raffle and prizes; and Friday, Dec. 12 Christmas songs down the avenue, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Those interested in joining the committee, call Dawn at 605-0589.
Oak Grove Cemetery Association meets Oct. 20
The Oak Grove Cemetery Association's plot owners' annual meeting will take place Monday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. at Noble School, (Adult Day Care dining room). The agenda includes reports of the officers and election of board members. For more information, call 933-8081.
Treasures Galore
The Church of the Holy Spirit, 28 Church St., will hold its annual rummage/tag sale Oct. 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Parish Hall. Household items, gently used clothing and accessories, as well as gift items, toys and books will be on sale. Coffee and pastries will be available for purchase.
Pagels PTA sponsor touch-a-truck
Pagel's pta and the West Haven Junior Woman's Club presents Touch-A-Truck, Sunday, Oct. 19, at West Haven High School parking lot, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain or shine. Admittance is $3 per person (children 2 and under are free). Come see West Haven Police Department's Mobile Command Center, West Haven Fire Department fire engine, Harwood Services big rig, American Medical Response ambulance, apple oil oil truck, winkle bus Company school bus, dan shine dump truck and tractor, and many more. First 150 children will receive a plastic construction hat. All proceeds raised from the event will help fund Pagel's Pta with activities not funded by the board of education and aid the West Haven Junior Woman's Club with all projects they assist within the community. Both organizations are registered nonprofits.
Chester Hadlyme Mystery Party
The West Haven Cultural Arts Association invites the public to join them for a night of mystery, crime solving, and fun at the Chester Hadlyme Mystery Party, "The Case of the Cryptic Crime," Saturday, Oct. 25, at Westwoods, 85 Chase Lane. Tickets are $30 and includes beer, wine, soda and water. For reservations and more information please call 203-933-0870. All proceeds to benefit The West Haven Cultural Arts Association, Inc. for their ongoing support of arts programs in West Haven and the Gloria "Dodie" Ireland Memorial Arts Scholarship.
St. Paul's Christmas bazaar and tag sale
St. Paul's Church annual Christmas bazaar and tag sale takes place Saturday, Nov. 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Avenue and Alling Street. There will be crafts, cake sale, raffles, adopt-A-Jar, and more. Crafters can rent a table for $25. For information or to reserve a space call the rectory at 933-1024.
Open enrollment for after-school program
The West Haven Community House is holding open enrollment for its Carrigan After-School Program for seventh- and eighth-grade students. The first of three seven-week sessions for the 2008/2009 school year will operate from the week of Oct. 6 to the week of Nov. 17. Each student will attend two days per week, Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. The program will be held after school at Carrigan Middle School from dismissal until 5 p.m. Bus transportation home from school will be provided. Activities will consist of: theme exploration (magic, drama, African drumming, Woodworking, martial arts, cooking and sewing, arts and crafts, board games and puzzles), tutoring in math, reading and English; recreation; and life skills development (self-image and self-expression, dating and relationships, personal goals, physical development and sexuality, drugs and alcohol). Participation is free. Interested parents should contact Elsa Jimenez-Francis at the West Haven Community House 203-934-5221 ext. 131.
Seniors will mark 40th anniversary
The West Haven Senior Association will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a luncheon Oct. 21 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Savin Rock Conference Center, 6 Rock St. The event, catered by Dom and Alfonsina Cusano, will feature entertainment by Al Leone and Leroy Christy Dinner choices are stuffed shrimp, prime rib or half chicken.
The cost is $19 for members and $22 for nonmembers. For tickets, call the West Haven Senior Center at 937-3507.
Freden Lodge of Danish Sisterhood
Freden Lodge 12 of the Danish Sisterhood of America will meet Tuesday, Oct. 28, at 7:30 p.m. at the North Haven Congregational Church, on Church Street. Ample off-street parking is available. All members are urged to attend. Guests and all interested people are invited to attend these meetings, any who are Danish or of Danish descent, married to a Dane or just interested in Danish culture are invited. For more information, contact Barb Santoro at barbSDSSmailbox@gmail and put Danish Sisterhood in the subject line, or call 934-6702.
Anniversary luncheon at St. Luke's Episcopal Church
It is with great pleasure we announce the 25th anniversary of the Rev. Dr. Victor A. Rogers as Rector of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. An Anniversary Luncheon will be held in his honor Oct. 18, at the Cascade Banquet Facility, 480 Sherman Ave., in Hamden, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For ticket information contact Lisa Yarbor at 203-677-6779 (days) or 203-314-4573 (evenings) by Oct. 10. A Festive High Mass will be held Oct. 19 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 111 Whalley Avenue, New Haven, at 11 a.m.
Parade seeks veterans
New England's largest Veterans Day Parade is seeking marchers, volunteers and sponsors for the statewide "2008 Connecticut Veterans Day Parade" to be held on Sunday, Nov., 2 in Hartford, Conn.. Veterans can sign up now to march or ride in the procession. Parade organizers are seeking veterans groups and individual veterans, patriotic commissions, local municipalities, and middle and high school marching bands and drill teams from throughout the state. The ninth annual statewide parade will step off at 1 p.m. near the Connecticut State Capitol in Hartford and will proceed for 1.26 miles through the Downtown area.
Veterans can register to march and others can sign up to volunteer at the parade on-line at www.ctveteransdayparade.org or by calling the Parade Information Line at (860) 724-2649 ext. 23.
Cancer to be discussed at library
The public is invited to a dinner seminar on dealing with cancer pain and palliative care on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 6 to 7:30 pm, at the New Haven Public Library, 133 Elm St. Thomas Quinn, APRN, will explore ways to prevent and relieve suffering and to improve the quality of life in the face of serious illness.
This is a collaboration in the public interest between the library and Yale Cancer Center, and there is no charge. Free parking is available. To reserve your sandwich, please RSVP online at www.guidezilla.com/nhfpl or call the library at 946-8835 by Oct. 15.
Workshop aims at recording memories
The West Haven Senior Center will offer a Written Legacies Workshop to give participants an opportunity to write about their life experiences.
The seven-week workshop will meet 1:30 to 3 p.m. starting Oct. 28 at the Robert A. Johnson Noble Community Center, 201 Noble St.
Hartford Courant columnist Marlene Clark will teach writing and memory-jogging techniques that can help students remember their stories.
The fee is $35 for residents and $45 for nonresidents. Class size is limited.
To register for the program, call the senior center at 937-3507.
Cat Project Inc. sponsoring Cat Food Drives
GNHCP is sponsoring Cat Food Drives Saturday, Oct. 18, Agway, 66 State St., North Haven; Saturday, Nov. 22, Agway, 66 State St., North Haven. Each cat food drive will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. GNHCP is soliciting donations of canned and dry cat food to help feed feral cat colonies.
GNHCP Inc. is a nonprofit feline rescue organization whose mission is to humanely address the cat overpopulation problem through spaying/neutering and public education. The organization provides low-cost spay/neuter assistance to people caring for feral, stray or abandoned cats in the Greater New Haven area. For more information on GNHCP, go to www.gnhcp.org, e-mail gnhcp1@gnhcp.org or call 203-782-CATS.
Italian-American Club Seniors sponsor trips
The West Haven Italian American Club Seniors will sponsor two fall trips as follows: Wednesday, Oct. 29, Westchester Dinner Theatre - The Mel Brooks' musical, "The Producers." The price is $76 per person, includes dinner, show, transportation and gratuity. Wednesday, Nov. 12, Mohegan Sun Casino and Old Mystic Village - Cornerstone Theatre, to see "The Nutty Cracker Christmas Sweet." The price is $55 per person, includes transportation, gratuity and show. For reservations, call Dolores at 933-8062.
Lincoln Grammar School class reunion
Graduates of Lincoln Grammar School class of 1949 are getting together with classmates Oct. 18. Any graduates who have not been contacted should call Rose Marie (Marchitto) Fortier at 203-469-5872 or Antoinette (D'onofrio) Thomas at 203-389-6156.
Sacred Heart hosts open house
Sacred Heart Academy, an independent Catholic college preparatory school for young women in grades 9 to 12, will open its doors to prospective students and their families on Sunday, Oct. 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Academy's Annual Open House. The Academy is located at 265 Benham Street in Hamden. The Open House is designed to give prospective families a feel for the spirit and focus of the Academy and thus encourages visitors to spend the day as they choose. Student guided tours are offered throughout the afternoon with time allowed in areas of particular interest. Administrators, faculty and staff, students, current parents and alumnae will be on hand to meet and greet and answer questions. Activities, presentations and exhibits representing all facets of the Academy will be offered. Visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the challenging academic program and co-curricular activities, observe students and teachers using the latest technology, preview the upcoming performance of "Les Miserables," see cutting edge research in the new molecular science, chemistry, physics and biology laboratories and experience the SHA orchestra and concert choir. Information on transportation, financial aid, athletics and college placement will also be available. All are welcome to attend the Open House; seventh and eighth graders and their parents are particularly encouraged to attend if they are considering admission. For more information about Open House or the admissions process contact Elaine Lamboley, Director of Admission, 203-288-2309, ext. 307.
St. Lawrence School seeking vendors
St. Lawrence School at 231 Main St. is looking for vendors for their annual craft fair Saturday, Oct. 25, which will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Space is $30 or $35 with table. For more information or to request an application, call 937-0081.
Annual Italian Night
The West Haven Italian-American Civic Association will host its annual Italian Night 2008 Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Westwoods/WHIA Club Banquet Hall, at 85 Chase Lane. A sit-down, full-course Italian-style dinner with dessert and coffee will be served by Cusano by Alphonsina at 6:30, followed with music by Vinnie Carr for dancing from 8 p.m. to midnight. The open-bar affair is $35 per person and reservations are required. Call ticket chairman Claude Lucia at 934-2361 or Pat Scirocco at 933-0626.
UNH hosts public lecture
The University of New Haven Friends of the UNH Library will host a public lecture: "Boss Trap: What to Do When Your Boss Stands in Your Way" by Dr. Stuart Sidle, industrial/organizational psychology professor, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 3 p.m., Marvin K. Peterson Library, Upper Level, UNH main campus, 300 Boston Post Road.
The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 203-932-7191 or e-mail hdobi@newhaven.edu.
Bus trip to Mohegan Sun
The Knights of Columbus in West Haven is sponsoring a bus trip to Mohegan Sun. The bus departs from St. Louis Church parking lot Saturday, Nov. 8, at 9 a.m. and leaves Mohegan Sun at 4:30 p.m. Cost is $30 per person which includes a $10 food coupon and two $10 bet coupons. Food coupon can be used as full payment for the Seasons or Sunburst Buffet. There will also be a free raffle on board the bus. Proceeds from the trip will go to support ongoing K of C community efforts in West Haven. Call Rich Antosca at 932-9561 or 640-7783 to reserve a seat.
Class of 1966 reunion
West Haven High School Class of 1966 is celebrating their 42nd Reunion on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Festivities will take place at the Savin Rock Conference Center, Rock Street, from 7 p.m. to midnight.
For more information contact Richard Bruno at 878-2929 or 887-5630 or Cathy Rockefeller at 230-1146.
Amity Cares Habitat for Humanity wine tasting fundraiser
Please join Amity Cares Habitat for Humanity for another wine tasting event Wednesday, Nov. 12, 6 to 8 p.m., at Scoozzi Trattoria & Wine Bar, 1104 Chapel St., New Haven. Enjoy a variety of specially selected wines and light hors d'oeuvres at this casual walk-around event. In addition, Scoozzi's will extend a 15 percent discount to attendees dining following the event. The price per person is $45, inclusive of tax and gratuity. RSVP by Nov. 5. Prepaid reservations are recommended as space is limited. Reservations may be secured by calling the Greater New Haven Habitat for Humanity office at 203-785-0794. Visit www.AmityCares.org for more information.
Arts Council conducts survey
How do you take your art? The Arts Council of Greater New Haven wants to know! In an effort to better understand how the community participates in the arts, the Arts Council is conducting a simple survey online. The survey consists of several straightforward questions, including where people go to hear live music or catch an exhibit; what people consider their favorite arts pursuits - concerts, plays, visits to museums; and what would make for a livelier arts community in Greater New Haven. All community members are encouraged to offer their input, including those who do not actively participate in the arts.
To take the short survey, visit the Arts Council's website at www.newhavenarts.org and click on "Upcoming Events" under "News and Events." For more information, call the Arts Council at 203-772-2788.
MOMS Club seeks members
The MOMS Club of Milford-East is accepting new members from West Haven and East Milford. Moms Offering Moms Support is an international, nonprofit organization specifically for at-home mothers everywhere. The group helps mothers feel good about their decision to stay home with their children and give them the opportunity to share activities with other moms and their kids. The MOMS Club offers a variety of activities, including: Age-appropriate playgroups, picnics, walks and seasonal activities; outings to local playgrounds, zoos, petting farms and museums; guest speakers on topics of child development, parenting, etc. There also is a monthly Moms Night Out. Their chapters meet during the day because that's when mothers-at-home need the support. For more information, contact Lori, 203-535-0479, or e-mail: MOMSClubofMilford_East@yahoo.com.
WHHS Class of 1950 seeking contributions
In conjunction with the program headed by Margi Maher, the committee representing the Class of 1950, is contacting all graduates from that year asking for their contributions toward the replacement or refurbishing of the seats in the West Haven High School auditorium.
The Class of '50 is asking former classmates to send a $5 check toward this project. When the auditorium is completely redone, a plaque will be placed in the high school lobby, bearing the names of all contributors, which in this case will be The Class of 1950 WHHS. Send checks to Joan Beuer, 108 Eileen Road, West Haven, CT 06516 or contact Barb Santoro at nifty1950@live.com for more information.
MS Support Group
The West Haven MS Support Group meets at the West Haven Veterans Administration Hospital, Building 2, located at 950 Campbell Ave., in West Haven, every Thursday at noon.
There are more than 6,000 Connecticut residents diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, an oftentimes debilitating disease affecting the central nervous system. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter offers more than 25 support groups throughout Connecticut. These groups bring together people who share a common life experience as it relates to MS and its effects.
For more information, contact Mary Lou at 203-932-5711, ext. 2276.
For more information on multiple sclerosis and the many ways you can help make a difference, please visit www.ctfightsMS.org or call the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter at 800-FIGHT MS.
Bingo takes place at OLOV and St. John
Bingo takes place Tuesday nights at 7:30 at Our Lady of Victory Church, 600 Jones Hill Road. Also, bingo takes place Wednesday nights at 7:30 at St. John Vianney Church, 300 Captain Thomas Blvd. Both events are smoke-free. The public is invited.
Band instruments needed
West Haven Board of Education encourages residents to donate band instruments. Many students would love the opportunity to participate in band programs, but the cost can be prohibitive. If you can help, please drop the working instrument at the nearest school, or contact A.J. Palermo at the West Haven Board of Education to make arrangements 937-4354.
Free training offered in human services
The Marrakech Inc. Academy for Human Service Training is offering a free training program for youth 18 to 21 in the Greater New Haven area. This unique program includes both classroom and hands-on internship experience and prepares individuals to work with adults and children with developmental disabilities. The ultimate program goal is to place graduates in full-time employment. Training takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday and will run for about 12 weeks. Interested candidates must attend an Informational Overview Session, which takes place every Wednesday at 3 p.m. sharp at 526 Whalley Ave. in New Haven. For more information, call 389-2970, ext. 1321.
Donate diapers to the Diaper Bank
What is a better gift for the holiday season than one that is needed year-round? The New Haven Diaper Bank hopes to provide one of the most basic needs for New Haven's youngest residents this holiday season and United Way of Greater New Haven is partnering with them as a drop-off location. United Way is located at 71 Orange St. in New Haven between Chapel Street and Crown Street. Diapers can be dropped off between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The New Haven Diaper Bank's yearly goal is to provide 250,000 diapers to local families in need, with a hope of increasing the amount of diapers to 1 million in the near future. The Diaper Bank accepts diapers of all sizes, but is especially in need of size 6 and Pull-Ups.
To find other drop-off locations, visit www.newhavendiaperbank.org/.
Help children find homes
For millions of children in the U.S., thousands in Connecticut, abuse and neglect are a way of life. Anyone can help an abused or neglected child find what every child deserves, a safe and loving home. Children in Placement's Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers work alongside judges, attorneys and social workers. They are trained community volunteers appointed by a judge to speak up for abused and neglected children in court. CIP needs volunteers. For more information, call the New Haven office at 784-0344 or visit their Web site at www.childreninplacement.org to download an application.
Donate cars to boys and girls campaign
Now that the price of scrap metal has sharply risen, the Connecticut Boys and Girls Club Car Campaign will accept most any car with no restrictions. Cars will be picked up anywhere in Connecticut, usually within a week, and are sold at auction. To donate, call 800-246-0493. Funds obtained by the sales go directly to help the Connecticut clubs.
Job interviews for older workers
Job seekers age 55 and older in the Greater New Haven area can find paid employment with the help of the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut. Training also may be available for income-eligible applicants. Call 752-3059 to make an appointment to register with their employment service. Interviews take place in the offices at One Long Wharf Drive, New Haven. Referrals are made to all types of jobs.
Higher Ground ministry at Grace Baptist Church
Anyone with a problem with alcohol, substance abuse, any compulsive behavior or living with a loved one who has an addiction is invited to receive support, encouragement, and spiritual guidance that will change their life. Grace Baptist Church at 400 Burnt Plains Road, Milford, is offering Higher Ground Ministry Tuesdays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. weekly. The ministry is nondenominational offering help that is permanent and eternal through Biblical truths. For information, call 874-8928.
Fundraiser for parent support group
The Local System of Care's Parent Support Group for children with special needs is holding a recycling fundraiser.
To help protect the environment, group members are accepting used cell phones, ink jet cartridges, DVDs, video games, portable DVD players, laptop and notebook computers, MP3 players, video game consoles, digital cameras, digital picture frames, and portable navigation and GPS devices.
People can drop off items at the Department of Human Resources, City Hall.
Items will be recycled in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations or will be refurbished and sold.
All proceeds will help fund programs for children with special needs.
For details, contact Karen Muro at 937-3565 or KarenMMuro@aol.com.
Shoreline Yellow Ribbon Mothers meet
The Shoreline Yellow Ribbon Mothers is a support group for mothers who have sons or daughters who are serving in Iraq or Afghanistan. They meet the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. For information on the group meetings, call Pat Corradino at 203-421-3091 or e-mail patanowak@comcast.net.

