The Jobseekers’ Support Group, sponsored by Department of Human and Leisure Services and the West Hartford Public Library will meet on Monday, February 1 from 1:30 – 2:30 pm in the Board Room of the Noah Webster Library, 20 South Main Street.

Dan Golden from Greater Hartford Toastmasters Club will conduct a workshop to give jobseekers the tools they need to set up and conduct informational interviews. The informational interview is a valuable and effective tool for clarifying career goals, exploring possible career paths and for building confidence for job interviews. To register for this group, please call the Library at 561-6990.

CREC’s Metropolitan Learning Center Magnet School for Global and International Studies (MLC) is offering a Parent Information Night at the Noah Webster Library on Monday, February 1 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. Parents will learn about the exciting curriculum and unique opportunities MLC offers. In 2009, the school was selected by the United States Department of Education as one of eight successful magnet schools in the nation. The 6-12 grade school has openings for student entering grade 6 in the 2010-2011 school year. 

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the Greenberg Center for Judaic Studies’ “First-of-the-Month” forum on contemporary topics will host a discussion by Yudit Greenberg on her book, The Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions on Monday, Feb. 1, at 7:30 p.m. Her talk is free and open to the public. Greenberg’s talk will be on the topic of “love” as it appears in Jewish texts (from the Bible through the modern period) and in comparison with the world’s great religions.

The Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions offers a comprehensive portrait of love in the context of the classic and contemporary literature of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as other cultures and philosophies. Following the talk and questions and answers, there will be a book signing and information about purchasing the book. The book, The Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions, is published by ABC-CLIO. The forum will be held at Wilde Auditorium, in the Harry Jack Gray Center, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford. For more information, contact the Greenberg Center of the University of Hartford at 860.768.4964 or mgcjs@hartford.edu.

Bill Fletcher, Jr., an activist and executive editor of The Black Commentator, will discuss the answer to the question “Is social activism and racial justice still significant 50 years after the Greensboro Sit-In Movement?” The talk, which takes place on Monday, Feb.1, at 7:30 p.m., at Konover Campus Center, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford. The talk is free and open to the public.

The Greensboro Sit-in Movement began on Feb. 1, 1960. Four African American students from Agricultural and Technical College of North Carolina, a historically black college, sat at a segregated lunch counter in the Greensboro, N.C. Woolworth's store. Demonstrations by students against segregation spread across the South drawing new attention and energy to the Civil Rights Movement.

We are now accepting applications for the 2010-2011 school year.  We welcome you to come for a tour of our newly renovated school and see the great things happening on February 2 or February 4 at 10 AM. We have so much to offer:
* NAEYC accredited program
* Low student/teacher ratios
* Music and movement classes
* All classes run from 9am-1pm
* Large gym for indoor play/playground for outdoor fun
* Enthusiastic staff with Early Childhood backgrounds and ongoing training
* Our curriculum is presented within a warm, nurturing, Christian environment.

Children welcome! For more information please contact Amy Borio at 860.521.8063 or whmns@snet.net . West Hartford Methodist Nursery School is located at 7 Berkshire Road West Hartford.

Join us at Westmoor Park on February 1 from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. as we take a fun look at the tradition of Punxatawny Phil and learn all about groundhogs.  This session is intended for children ages 6 to 8 year olds and pre-registration is required.  Fee is $15 for residents and $16 for non-residents.  Call 860-561-8260 for more information.

West Hartford Early Childhood Partnership presents…Questions and Answers Regarding Transitioning to Kindergarten

Everything you always wanted to know but didn’t know whom to ask!  Representatives from the West Hartford Public Schools, including current kindergarten teachers and administrators, will speak with parents about the transition from preschool to kindergarten and address frequently asked questions.

Materials will be available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010
7:00-8:00 p.m.
Town Hall Auditorium, 50 South Main Street

***Snow Date:  Tuesday, February 9, 2010***
Same Time – Same Place

RSVP by January 25, 2010 to mary_stone@whps.org or call 561-6669

Jewish Family Services offering FREE Money Coach to help with acute financial issues related to current employment problems. Wednesdays 9-3 and Thurs mornings, by appointment.  Call 860-236-1927. Jewish Family Services, 333 Bloomfield Ave. Suite A, West Hartford, CT 06117     

The Bishops Corner library offers free, one-on-one career counseling appointments every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 561-8212 for more information. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

The Mandell JCC and Jewish Family Services will help job seekers learn how to take control of their employment search process at a free event with Ellen Gordon Reeves, author of Can I Wear My Nose Ring to the Interview? on Wednesday, February 3 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. The workshop will be held at the Mandell JCC, Zachs Campus, 335 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford, CT 06117.

A resident job-hunting expert at the Columbia Publishing Course, Ellen Gordon Reeves’s book, Can I Wear My Nose Ring to the Interview? A Crash Course in Finding, Landing and Keeping Your First Real Job is a Business Week best seller and has been featured on the CBS Early Morning Show, ABC Money Matters, NPR’s Morning Edition, and U.S. News and World Report. Reeves is a frequent public speaker, consulting to individuals and institutions.

From tailoring resumes and cover letters to networking and follow up, Reeves will share her proven strategies. She will challenge conventional job-hunting wisdom, discuss interview attire, how to respond to interviewers, and negotiate salary and benefits. Reeves will answer questions and offer  on-the-spot resume and dress critiques.

Taking Control of Your Job Search, which is open to the public, is co-sponsored by the Mandell JCC Jewish Book Festival and the Jewish Family Services Jewish Employment Transition Services Program. For more information and to RSVP, visit the Member Services Center or call 860-236-4571, or visit www.mandelljcc.org.

NEW! Practice English, every Tuesday afternoon, 1:00–3:00 p.m.  You're invited to join us at the Bishops Corner Branch Library for an hour of casual conversation. Improve your English skills while making new friends in this relaxed and welcoming environment! Call 561-8212 for more information or just drop in on Tuesday afternoon. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

Drop by the Bishops Corner branch library on Wednesday afternoons and enjoy the company of friends as we share this terrific craft. Everyone is welcome—all ages and all skill levels. Instruction on a simple project will be provided. Beginners please bring a skein of bulky yarn; needles will be available. No registration necessary. For more information, please call 561-8213. We are currently looking for adult knitters who might want to volunteer to help teach this craft. The Bishops Corner library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford

Whether a beginner or experienced in yoga, Yoga Just for Women, a new class at the Mandell JCC, may be just what women need to relax, renew and rejuvenate. Designed to appeal to all comfort levels and modesty preferences, Yoga Just for Women is held every Wednesday from 7:00-8:00 p.m. until December 16. The class is free for Mandell JCC members and open to non-JCC members at $10 per class. For more information, contact Sara Billings, 860-231-6331, sbillings@mandelljcc.org. The Mandell JCC is located on the Zachs Campus at 335 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford, CT 06117.

Come Listen and Learn how Hall High School Graduate
became Hollywood’s successful Comedy Screenwriter
David H. Steinberg
Wednesday February 3, 2010
At The Grounds
(located in Bishops Corner at the Old Barnes & Noble space)
7:30 – 9:00 pm

David H. Steinberg grew up in West Hartford, Connecticut, and graduated from Hall High School. Steinberg broke out as a writer in 1999 with his teen comedy SLACKERS. The movie starred Devon Sawa, Jason Schwartzman, and model Jamie King and became an instant cult classic. Steinberg was immediately hired by Universal Studios to pen the sequel to the smash hit AMERICAN PIE. In another script, AFTER SCHOOL SPECIAL was made into Steinberg’s third teen comedy, starring Amy Smart, Tom Arnold, and Horatio Sanz. Steinberg served as co-producer on that film, released in 2005 by Sony as NATIONAL LAMPOON’S BARELY LEGAL.

The Hartt School Vocal Studies Division presents Aaron Copland’s The Tender Land, on Thursday, February 4, Friday, February 5, and Saturday, February 6, at 7:30 PM, and Sunday, February 7, at 3:00 PM in Millard Auditorium on the University of Hartford campus.  Admission is $20, with discounts for seniors, students, and groups. For tickets and information, call the University of Hartford Box Office at 860.768.4228 or 800.274.8587, or buy tickets online at www.hartford.edu/hartt.

The Hartt Symphony Orchestra joins the Vocal Studies Division to present The Tender Land, this season’s Main Stage Opera by Aaron Copland. Performances are on Thursday, February 4, Friday, February 5, and Saturday, February 6, at 7:30 PM and Sunday, February 7, at 3:00 PM.  Performances will be in Millard Auditorium, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford. 

Join coaches Lynne and Janice as they discuss the benefits of becoming a member of Team Training New England. This unique program prepares women to complete their first or fifth triathlon. Join us as we discuss the benefits, tricks of the trade and help to motivate you to reach your goals!

Location: REI West Hartford @ Blue Back Square

Contact:  REI West Hartford, 860-233-2211

Cost: Free

Registration Required? Yes. Please call the Customer Service desk at REI West Hartford to register in advance.

West Hartford Garden Club meeting on February 4 features Richard Benfield will share the beauty of the world’s most spectacular gardens and landscape designs with his presentation "Great Botanical Gardens of the World." Mr. Benfield is a Central Connecticut State University instructor. The garden club meeting is held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2080 Boulevard, West Hartford, at 12:00 Noon. Guest donation $5.00 - Light lunch included. For more information, call 860-561-0724.

Calling all chocolate lovers, this event is for you!  Enjoy the many different types of chocolate at our annual Chocolate Fest.  There will be samples galore throughout the store.  Come and enjoy this event at all of our area locations. 

Chocolate Fest dates:

·        Thursday, Feb 4^th, 4:30 – 6:30 pm West Hartford Center, 50 Raymond Road, West Hartford

·        Saturday, Feb 6^th, 12noon – 2:00pm Bishop’s Corner store, 340 N. Main Street, West Hartford

Kingswood-Oxford School will host a reception for "Our Work Our Choice," a joint art exhibition of works by Middle School students at K-O and Renbrook School, Thursday, Feb. 4 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Oxford Hall. Works for the exhibition were chosen by students at each school. According to K-O creative arts teacher Katherine Nicholson, she and other K-O art teachers chose about 50 works that hung in the Middle School hallways. Students had several days to cast their votes for the works they thought should be in the show. She said her colleagues at Renbrook held a similar vote.

The top 10 chosen works from each school will be on display at the exhibition, which will be in K-O’s Oxford Hall from Jan. 25 through Feb. 11 and then at Renbrook from Feb. 12 through March 5. Nicholson said that students in K-O Middle School English classes responded to the 10 chosen works, creating labels that will accompany the pieces of art.

According to K-O creative arts department chair Pat Rosoff, the "Our Work Our Choice" exhibition has a long history in the Greater Hartford area. Rosoff said she was involved in the creation of the show – which featured art from K-O, Renbrook and Watkinson – in the late 1970s. The exhibition continued until 2003, when the program took a hiatus due to personnel changes. She said that she hopes that Watkinson will once again join the show next year.

The reception is free and open to the public. Kingswood-Oxford School is located at 170 Kingswood Road in West Hartford. Parking is available in the school's lot on Trout Brook Drive. For more information, call 860-233-9631, ext. 2815 or e-mail adams.s@k-o.org.

Held in the Town Hall Auditorium, 50 South Main Street. Contact Amy at 561-7511 for more information.

“Concerto Winner - Hartt has Talent” will feature the finest classical instrumental soloists in the Hartt School.  This concert showcases four Paranov Competition winners from the 2009-2010 season, backed up by the Hartt Wind Ensemble and Hartt Symphony Orchestra.  This concert will take place on Friday, February 5, at 7:30 PM, in Lincoln Theater, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford. 

The Mayor's Charity Ball Committee is having a blast planning the February 6th, 2010 Mayor’s Charity Ball.  The theme for this event, that benefits West Hartford young people and their families, is a "Night of Laughter”. The event will benefit two local organizations HopeWork & the Grounds. Latanya Farrell & the Bookman Styles Band is promising to get you dancing and singing!  The emcee for the evening is our own local “home grown" comedian’s comedian Ken Ober.  Ken graduated from Hall High School in 1976 and has worked in the comedy scene in LA for three decades as a stand-up comedian, game show host, writer and friend to the best and brightest comedians. He is excited to return to the home of his youth and to support programs that support local young people and families.

If you want information, to make a donation, be a sponsor or want to make sure to receive an invitation to the Ball  (the event is open to all) please e-mail us at info@themayorscharityball.org or by calling 860-561-1175 ext. 703. You can also log onto our website www.themayorscharityball

BUBBLE-MANIA is family entertainment that will delight both the young and old alike. This event will be held on Saturday, February, 6, 2010 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM.  Join us for Amazing and Amusing clean fun! You will be dazzled with a bubble galaxy, mesmerized with the crystal ball, a bubble spaceship and much, much more.  Some audience members will be chosen to participate on stage and someone will be chosen and encased inside a great big giant bubble.  Young children must remain in their seat.  Tickets are $7.00 per person (children must be accompanied by a paying adult) and may be purchased by phone or in person at the Elmwood Community Center.  Tickets will not be sold after Tuesday, February 3. Elmwood Community Center is located at 1106 New Britain Avenue West Hartford. Call 860-561-8160 for tickets.

P'nai Or: the Jewish Renewal Congregation in West Hartford, CT invites you to join us for our next Shabbat service. It will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6 at 10 AM and will be led by Rabbi Andrea Cohen-Kiener. The service will be at the Flagg Road United Church, 134 Flagg Rd, West Hartford. There is no charge for attending the service and there is plenty of free parking in the church parking lot. Free childcare is provided.

Rabbi Andrea Cohen-Kiener is a leader in the National Jewish Renewal Movement; P'nai Or is a warm and vibrant community committed to bringing creativity and joy to spiritual practice.

For more information, contact Elaine at: pnaior@sbcglobal.net  or 860 231-9733 or check out our website at www.jewishrenewalct.org

Calling all chocolate lovers, this event is for you!  Enjoy the many different types of chocolate at our annual Chocolate Fest.  There will be samples galore throughout the store.  Come and enjoy this event at all of our area locations. Saturday, Feb 6^th, 12noon – 2:00pm Bishop’s Corner store, 340 N. Main Street, West Hartford

You’re invited to an intimate discussion with one of America’s best loved authors! Award-winning author Jane Yolen will visit the Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society on Saturday, February 6 from 1 to 3 p.m. She will read aloud one of her favorite books, answer questions, and hold a book signing. You might even get a sneak peek at one of her upcoming books. Yolen will read from her book, Tea With an Old Dragon, which was published in 1998. It tells the story of a young girl named Louisa who is curious about Sophia Smith, a woman who the other children call "the old dragon". The book was illustrated by artist Monica Vachula. Vachula recently illustrated Noah Webster Weaver of Words. Sixteen original illustrations from that book are on exhibit at the museum through March 2010. The exhibit, entitled "Noah Webster Illustrated" coincides with the publication of the new book about Webster by Pegi Deitz Shea. Tea with Jane Yolen is $6 per person and free for museum members. Guests have the choice of hot chocolate and tea, as well as cookies. Reservations are required– call 860-521-5362 x10. Don’t forget to bring your favorite Yolen book to have signed, or buy one that day at the Museum Shop. To learn more about Yolen, visit www.JaneYolen.com. The site offers activities for children, information about the books, and a contact page if you have questions or comments.

The Farmington Valley Rowing Club provides access to the sport of rowing to men and women of all ages and all abilities in North Central Connecticut. FVRA offers open sweep rowing sessions to its members to enjoy the Farmington River, while benefiting from a full-body, low-impact workout. As an organization, we value teamwork and find joy in rowing for exercise and competition. We strive to be positive members of the local community. If you've ever watched the shells skimming along rivers or lakes and said to yourself, "I'd like to do that some day," now is the time! Learn to row or improve your technique with hour-long Sunday sessions at Trinity College's indoor rowing facility in Hartford. 

Sunday - Jan 17, 24, 31. Feb 7, 21, 28. Makeup date Mar 7.  Novice/Intermediate 1-2PM; Experienced/Advanced 2-3PM.  $105 for all 6 sessions. See the FVRA website: www.fvra.org.  Sign up now to guarantee your seat! Contact:  info@fvra.org. Connie Clifford, FVRA Tanks Coordinator
860 242 1111.

“Global  Warming Update: The Inconvenient Science” Breakfast Program with former local TV meteorologist and meteorological consultant Art Horn who will present the science behind what is causing our climate to change and will expose the myth that those changes are caused by human activity. $7 (free for Beth El Men’s Club members) – Includes full breakfast buffet.
RSVP: hgraime@att.net  or 582-9027 by February 4. Beth El Temple, 2626 Albany Avenue, West Hartford.

David Miller, managing director of Conning and Company, will speak on “The Market Rollercoaster: Is the Ride Over?” on Sunday, February 7, 9:30 a.m. at the Brotherhood Breakfast, Congregation Beth Israel, 701 Farmington Ave., West Hartford, CT. This program is open to the community.  For more information, visit www.cbict.org, or contact bethisrael@cbict.org.

Children and families will spend Sunday, February 7 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m with Elmo, Batman and a Disney Princess at the Mandell Jewish Community Center’s Character Breakfast to celebrate the Family Room Parenting Center’s 3rd birthday. A Magic Show with tricks and illusions by Derek Whitneck will also be featured at 11:00 a.m. in the Chase Family Gallery. 

Derek has been entertaining audiences of all ages with magic and comedy for nearly 20 years. From large stages to private events, Derek has performed for the Hard Rock Café, Coca Cola and Pfizer. During breakfast, children will decorate tiaras, crowns and wands and enjoy face painting, stories, balloon animals, arts and crafts projects and more.

The Character Breakfast is open to the community. Tickets are $25 per family and are on sale at the Member Services Center in person or by phone, 860-236-4571. The event will take place at the Mandell JCC, Zachs Campus, 335 Bloomfield Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117. For more information contact Jane Pasternak, 860-231-6342, jpasternak@mandelljcc.org. or visit www.mandelljcc.org.

Show you care about our feathered friends during the cold months!  Join other bird lovers at Westmoor Park on February 8 from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. to learn about birds and their winter lifestyles, and make treats for them to enjoy.  This session is intended for children ages 6 to 8 and pre-registration is required 860-561-8260 for more information.

As part of the Mandell JCC Arts Of It All programming, the 2nd Mondays series continues on Monday, February 8 from 7:30-9:00 p.m. with “Reel Jews:” An Inside Look at the 2010 Hartford Jewish Film Festival. Co-Chairs Ruthan Wein and Mark Slitt will host an open discussion about the 30 films in the 14th annual celebration of Jewish life and people on the big screen. Film lovers will enjoy an evening of popcorn, candy and a chance to win tickets to this year’s events.

These casual, fun evenings explore artistic expression of all kinds: dance, music, visual arts, food, film and more.  This unique program was developed to offer arts events on the traditionally closed or “dark” Monday nights of the theater community. The 2nd Mondays events are held in the Mandell JCC Living Room on the 2nd Monday of each month from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. and are free of charge and open to the public. Light refreshments are served.     

An alarming number of teens and tweens are in abusive relationships. Many can’t read the early danger signals – put-downs, excessive texting and other controlling behavior -- and many don’t know what to do when they realize the relationship is unhealthy. Four experts will talk about what’s behind the high number of young abusers and victims, and how to stop the violence at the upcoming Hartford Courant & FOX 61 Key Issues Forum titled, “Teen Dating Violence: How to spot it. What to do about it.” The forum is free and open to the public. Areas schools, women’s centers and domestic violence shelters have also been invited to attend. It will be held on Tuesday, February 9, from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the University of Hartford’s Wilde Auditorium. Panelists taking part in the discussion are: Dr. Jhumka Gupta, Yale School of Public Health, an expert on violence against boys and girls; William S. Pollack, author of Real Boys and director of the Centers for Men and Young Men at McLean Hospital, Boston; Iris Ruiz, assistant director, Interval House, and teen dating violence survivor; and Alisson Wood, youth program manager for a Bridgeport program that prevents teen dating violence and a survivor herself. The program will be moderated by Susan Campbell, columnist, Hartford Courant.

Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to register by e-mail at corpaffairs@courant.com or by phone at 860.241.3614. A University of Hartford campus map and directions are available at www.hartford.edu. Please park in Lot K-Visitor. The event is co-sponsored by the Hartford Courant and FOX 61, and presented in partnership with the University of Hartford.

West Hartford Early Childhood Partnership presents…Questions and Answers Regarding Transitioning to Kindergarten. Everything you always wanted to know but didn’t know whom to ask!  Representatives from the West Hartford Public Schools, including current kindergarten teachers and administrators, will speak with parents about the transition from preschool to kindergarten and address frequently asked questions. Materials will be available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010 *** Snow Date:  Tuesday, February 9, 2010***
7:00-8:00 p.m.
Town Hall Auditorium, 50 South Main Street
RSVP by January 25, 2010 to mary_stone@whps.org or call 561-6669

Include Playhouse Theatre Group, Inc's production of Love Letter's in your Valentine plans!   Directed by Stevie Zimmerman, Love Letters traces the lifelong correspondence of the staid, dutiful lawyer Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and the lively, unstable artist Melissa Gardner, the story of their bittersweet relationship gradually unfolds from what is written -- and what is left unsaid -- in their letters.     The Wall Street Journal calls Love Letters "Exhilarating, funny and moving."    A $15 preview is scheduled February 10th at 7:30pm.  Performances are scheduled: February 11th at 7:30pm (opening night, includes a complimentary wine & cheese 6:30pm - 7:30pm); February 12th at 8:00pm; February 13th at 2:00pm and 8:00pm and February 14th at 2:00pm and 8:00pm.    Tickets range from $20 - $32.50.   To order tickets call 860-523-5900 ext 10 or visit www.playhouseonpark.org

Every guest attending a Love Letter's performance will receive two heart shaped cookies compliments of A Little Something Bakery.    Every woman attending a performance will receive a flower compliments of Flowers by Lang and Lenge.   (preview excluded)  Watch our website for more Valentines surprises as well as Valentine specials being offered by local restaurants.

Jewish Family Services offering FREE Money Coach to help with acute financial issues related to current employment problems. Wednesdays 9-3 and Thurs mornings, by appointment.  Call 860-236-1927. Jewish Family Services, 333 Bloomfield Ave. Suite A, West Hartford, CT 06117     

February 10 - A JETS workshop: INVEST IN YOURSELF FOR 2010: A Financial Q&A for WOMEN (and men too) to help you move through this turbulent financial time!  This is a must attend interactive session covering: 10 things you need to know in 2010; “who should do what” regarding financial decisions; and basic investment philosophy.  9-11am. Free & open to the public. Facilitated by Maureen Kerrigan and Anne Yolles, Financial Consultants and Accredited Wealth Managers from RBC Wealth Management. At Mandell JCC, 335 Bloomfield Ave. West Hartford 06117. Sponsored by Jewish Family Services. Call 860-236-1927 x 25 for more information or visit www.jfshartford.org/jets/programs.htm

The Bishops Corner library offers free, one-on-one career counseling appointments every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 561-8212 for more information. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

NEW! Practice English, every Tuesday afternoon, 1:00–3:00 p.m.  You're invited to join us at the Bishops Corner Branch Library for an hour of casual conversation. Improve your English skills while making new friends in this relaxed and welcoming environment! Call 561-8212 for more information or just drop in on Tuesday afternoon. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

Drop by the Bishops Corner branch library on Wednesday afternoons and enjoy the company of friends as we share this terrific craft. Everyone is welcome—all ages and all skill levels. Instruction on a simple project will be provided. Beginners please bring a skein of bulky yarn; needles will be available. No registration necessary. For more information, please call 561-8213. We are currently looking for adult knitters who might want to volunteer to help teach this craft. The Bishops Corner library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford

Join us for a Mardi Gras Dinner! Fun for the Whole Family! Meal prepared and served by Hall High Students!

When: February 10, 2010

Time: 6-8pm

Where:  Hall High School Cafeteria

Why:  Help raise money for a group of Hall High School students to go to New Orleans to help rebuild homes for people that were affected by Hurricane Katrina.

Activities:

Mask Making

Live Hall High Jazz Band

Silent Auction

Cost: Students (5-18) & Seniors (65+) = $10; Faculty = $12; Adults = $15

Come help us make a difference! Tickets will be sold at the door or call and reserve tickets and pay at the door. Contact Kim Hart-Kindelberger: 860-232-4561 ext. 1911

Whether a beginner or experienced in yoga, Yoga Just for Women, a new class at the Mandell JCC, may be just what women need to relax, renew and rejuvenate. Designed to appeal to all comfort levels and modesty preferences, Yoga Just for Women is held every Wednesday from 7:00-8:00 p.m. until December 16. The class is free for Mandell JCC members and open to non-JCC members at $10 per class. For more information, contact Sara Billings, 860-231-6331, sbillings@mandelljcc.org. The Mandell JCC is located on the Zachs Campus at 335 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford, CT 06117.

The Richard P. Garmany Chamber Music Series presents David Finckel and Wu Han on Thursday, February 11, at 7:30 PM, in Millard Auditorium, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford. This Series has been made possible by a grant from the Richard P. Garmany Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.  A special pre-concert dinner precedes this performance and begins at 6:00 PM in the University’s 1877 Club. Patrons may purchase Series subscriptions or individual tickets to the performances and/or the pre-concert dinners.

Hartt’s annual Collage Concert, which is free and open to the public, features two acts filled with continuous music, dance, and theatre.  Hartt’s gift to the community, Collage takes place on Friday, February 12, and Saturday, February 13, at 7:30 PM, in Lincoln Theater, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford.

The students of the Hartford Art School Print Club will be hosting a Print Sale opening on February 12 from 5-8pm in the Silpe Gallery. Prints will be for sale starting as low as $5! The Silpe Gallery is open February 12th-18th. Hours: Saturday & Sunday 11 AM-3 PM and Monday -Thursday 10 AM-4 PM. A portion of the proceeds will go to support travel to the Southern Graphics Council Conference in Philadelphia. For more information, contact the University of Hartford at 860-768-4393 or visit www.hartfordartschool.org

Natasha Ulyanovsky, a concert organist and recording artist, will demonstrate different sound combinations that can be produced with Congregation Beth Israel’s historic Austin Organ. This hour-long, free program will be held on Friday, February 12, 6:30 p.m. at Beth Israel, 701 Farmington Ave., West Hartford. Ms. Ulyanovsky will create sounds with bells, chimes, and the echo organ and will play a versatile program of J.S. Bach, opera music, French romantic, swing, and jazz. She has performed internationally as both a soloist and accompanist, including performances at Carnegie Hall. Beth Israel’s Austin Organ was completely restored in 2004 and has been cited by the national Organ Historical Society as a historically significant pipe organ.  This program is open to the community and will be followed by a Shabbat Service at 7:30 p.m.  For more information, visit www.cbict.org, or contact 860-233-8215 x230.

James Keelaghan, who has been hailed as Canada’s finest singer-songwriter, will return to the MUSIC for a CHANGE benefit concert series on Friday, Feb. 12, at 7:30 p.m. in Wilde Auditorium, which is in the Harry Jack Gray Center at the University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford. Tickets are $17. Keelaghan, who recently released his 11th CD, House of Cards (Borealis Records, Oct. 2009), is possessed of an insatiable appetite for finding the next unique story line. He forges his pieces with brilliant craftsmanship and monogrammed artistic vision, making him one of the most distinctive and readily identifiable voices on both the Canadian and international singer-songwriter scenes. For tickets, call the University box office at 860.768.4228 or 1.800.274.8587, or purchase them online at www.musicforachange.com. For more information about the MUSIC for a CHANGE concert series, join our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=72101746833

Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center at 303 Tunxis Rd. (down the street from and behind the UConn Health Center) will host its annual Valentine’s Day Eucharist and Gourmet Dinner on Saturday, Feb. 13 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The event will include Mass, a live jazz trio, and fine wine, along with a festive gourmet dinner featuring the cuisine of chef Joe Ethier.  The offering is $65 per person. Come alone or as a couple. Information is available at (860) 521-0440.  View the menu and register online at www.holyfamilyretreat.org. 

This Valentine’s Day rather than purchasing flowers for a loved one, please consider making a donation in their name to help a Labs4rescue. Often times while waiting to be adopted, Labs are placed in kennels with little or no toys, and sometimes they come to us with no leash or collar. Your contribution will help to change this—show a Lab your love this Valentine's Day. We will also be holding an adoption event at uberdog, 635 New Park Ave., West Hartford, CT. FOR MORE INFO: www.myuberdog.com or www.labs4rescue.com Here's the link to the event:

http://labs4rescue.com/downloads/20100213adoptionevent.pdf

Congregants from fifteen synagogues from the Greater Hartford area will participate in a Community Havdalah Service on Saturday, February 13, at 7 p.m. The event will be held at Congregation Beth Israel, 701 Farmington Ave., West Hartford.   Havdalah is a Jewish ceremony that marks the symbolic end of Shabbat and holidays, and ushers in a new week.  The joyous event will include music, singing, dancing, and kosher snacks and desserts.  Participating congregations include: Agudas Achim, Beth Ahm, Beth David, Beth El, Beth Hillel, Beth Israel, B’nai Sholom, Congregation Or LaOlam, Emanuel Synagogue, Emek Shalom, P’nai Or, Temple Beth Hillel, Temple Sinai, Tikvoh Chadoshoh, and Young Israel of West Hartford. The community is invited and membership in a synagogue is not necessary. The cost is $5 per person.  Reservations invited but not required: adulted@cbict.org, 860-233-8215 x427. 

The Hartt School Community Division of the University of Hartford will hold auditions for the International Summer Ballet Academy at the Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferré in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Sunday, February 7, 2010; at the Miami City Ballet on February 8; at the Handel Performing Arts Center in Hartford, Connecticut, on February 14; and during the National High School Dance Festival in Miami, Florida, in March.  Auditions already have been held in North Carolina, Massachusetts, and Maryland.  Applications and complete information about the audition process can be found at www.hcd.hartford.edu, by calling 860.768.6000, or by sending an e-mail to dancedesk@hartford.edu. The Academy runs June 20 through July 24, 2010 on the University of Hartford Campus in Hartford, Connecticut. The Academy is geared towards advanced and intermediate students, ages 13 through 21, from around the world who seek four weeks of intensive pre-professional training, performance, and artistic camaraderie.

The Farmington Valley Rowing Club provides access to the sport of rowing to men and women of all ages and all abilities in North Central Connecticut. FVRA offers open sweep rowing sessions to its members to enjoy the Farmington River, while benefiting from a full-body, low-impact workout. As an organization, we value teamwork and find joy in rowing for exercise and competition. We strive to be positive members of the local community. If you've ever watched the shells skimming along rivers or lakes and said to yourself, "I'd like to do that some day," now is the time! Learn to row or improve your technique with hour-long Sunday sessions at Trinity College's indoor rowing facility in Hartford. 

Sunday - Jan 17, 24, 31. Feb 7, 21, 28. Makeup date Mar 7.  Novice/Intermediate 1-2PM; Experienced/Advanced 2-3PM.  $105 for all 6 sessions. See the FVRA website: www.fvra.org.  Sign up now to guarantee your seat! Contact:  info@fvra.org. Connie Clifford, FVRA Tanks Coordinator
860 242 1111.

The Saint Joseph College Athletics Department will host two community events, on February 14 and 20, in celebration of the 24th Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day. This year’s theme, "Stay Strong, Play On," draws on the support of thousands of sports educators, coaches, athletic directors, students and parents throughout the United States. Saint Joseph College is proud to sponsor a variety of activities to encourage participation for female athletes and women interested in fitness/recreation opportunities, to recognize current and past sports achievements, and to advance the continuing goal of equality and access for women in sports. Interested participants are encouraged to register in advance for any of the events listed below; please contact Debbie Fiske, associate athletic director at The O’Connell Athletic Center at 860.231.5423 or dfiske@sjc.edu. The full line-up includes: 

Sunday, February 14 - The Fourth Annual Saint Joseph College Indoor Sprint Triathlon: Saint Joseph College will team up with Team Training New England for a women-only indoor sprint triathlon! Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a beginner looking to find a start in triathlons, this event is for you. The race will consist of three 20-minute legs (swimming, biking and running). Form a relay team or compete individually. Women ages 14 and above are welcome to participate. The event will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph College’s O'Connell Athletic Center, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford. Admission: $10 adults; $5 students - all proceeds benefit Saint Joseph College’s Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

Saturday, February 20 - Girl in Sports Day: A full day of activities for girls only ages 8 through 14. The event consists of interactive skill sessions of various sports taught by the College’s coaches and student athletes which will include: tennis, volleyball, cheerleading, softball, soccer, swimming, basketball, athletic training and cross-country running. A team building/leadership workshop and lunch will follow the sports clinics. An NCAA basketball game – Saint Joseph College vs. Pine Manor College – wraps up the afternoon festivities. Participants are to come dressed and ready to take an active part in each session. The event will begin at 8:45 a.m. at Saint Joseph College’s O'Connell Athletic Center, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford. Admission: free of charge; advance registration required.

Taize service, a contemplative, reflective service of prayer, song and silence, will be held on Sunday, February 14, 2010, 6:30 pm in the Chancel of the Meeting House of the First Church of Christ Congregational, 12 South Main Street, West Hartford Center.  Taize Worship is an ecumenical, contemporary, contemplative worship service with song, silence, scripture and prayer.  Taize is an ecumenical Christian Community that was formed at the end of World War II in Taize, France.  The purpose of this community was to promote peace and justice through common worship.  The influence of the Taize Community has now spread all over the world. All are welcome.  For more information call 233-9605.  www.whfirstchurch.org

"Have a Heart Concert", a benefit, will be held for Haitian Earthquake Victims, Sunday, February 14, 2010, 4:00 pm.  Sponsored by the First Church of Christ Congregational, 12 South Main Street, West Hartford Center, the concert will feature the church's Adult Choir, the Whitechapel Handbell Choir and these music groups from Hartt and CCSU:  L'Shir, The Jolly Beggars and The Right Frequency.  A free will offering will be received.  For more information please call the church at 860-233-9605 or www.whfirstchurch.org

West Hartford Continuing Education is offering a trip to the 134th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Gardens in New York City. Participants will attend the Individual Breed judging for the hound, toy, and non-sporting and herding breeds that will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You will arrive at the show early afternoon to view some of the individual judging. The main event will be the group judging that begins at 8:00 p.m. There will be time for lunch/dinner breaks on your own. You will also have time on your own between the individual and group judging. The bus will depart immediately following the show.
Trip includes escort, motor coach, and ticket to the show.
Date of trip: Monday, February 15
Departure: Commuter Parking Lot, Hartford Rd., (across from Target)
Time: Depart parking lot - 11:00 a.m. arrival back to parking lot - 12:00 midnight
Price: $99 plus $6 registration fee

Come to specially scheduled public skating sessions at Veterans Memorial Skating Rink during the February school vacation, February 15 – 19. Call the rink at 860-521-1573 or visit www.Skatevmsr.com  for times and admission fees.

"Windows 7..Shall I Upgrade?" will be addressed at a free open-to-the-public meeting with computer authority Professor Michael Ligon of Capital Community College on Monday February 15 at 7 PM in the community auditorium of the First Baptist Church, 90 North Main Street, West Hartford. Admission is free and no RSVP is needed. This event is part of an ongoing series of free public informational meetings, sponsored by the public service computer help society BPMUG (Business & Professional Microcomputer Users Group www.bpmug.org, a regional Not-For-Profit society of experts and lay persons who offer help to every audience and to each other on the 3rd Monday of each month except August. Prior to each program, listeners are invited to seek help for their personal computer problems from the organization’s experts. Free refreshments and networking follow each program. Admission is free. All are welcome. No RSVP is needed. For directions or information, call Paul Silversmith 860-561-8511.

Hebrew Health Hospice will be hosting an Adult Bereavement Group at Hebrew Health Care at their 1 Abrahms Blvd., West Hartford campus. The support group will meet every Tuesday from February 16th to March 23rd from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM in the Adult Day Center.  Free of charge. Facilitated by Lia Fulmer MA, MEd. Pre-registration Required. Please contact Lia Fulmer for more information at 860.523.3888.

Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center at 303 Tunxis Rd. (behind and down the street from the UConn Health Center) will hold a day or evening retreat on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (same program). The presenter is Fr. David Cinquegrani, C.P.  Saint Paul of the Cross, the founder of the Passionists, had a unique relationship with God through Christ's passion that is both inspiring and comforting. Let's begin Lent together on Ash Wednesday with some reflections on our relationship to God through the life of St. Paul of the Cross and, in turn, our relationships with others in our lives. May this time of reflection bring us to a new place on the spiritual journey that leads us to life in Christ. The offering of $30 includes lunch or dinner.  Information is available at (860) 521-0440.  Register online at www.holyfamilyretreat.org. 

Come learn how the Flatbush Avenue bridge project will affect you, your business and your neighborhood. Department of Transportation staff will discuss starting dates, road detours, lane closures, and sequencing schedule. You’ll have an opportunity to ask questions. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 17, 2010, 8:00-10:00 AM at Elmwood Community Center, 1106 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. Free, everyone welcome. No RSVP required. For more information, visit http://www.ctrapidtransit.com/ 

Jewish Family Services offering FREE Money Coach to help with acute financial issues related to current employment problems. Wednesdays 9-3 and Thurs mornings, by appointment.  Call 860-236-1927. Jewish Family Services, 333 Bloomfield Ave. Suite A, West Hartford, CT 06117     

The Bishops Corner library offers free, one-on-one career counseling appointments every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 561-8212 for more information. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

NEW! Practice English, every Tuesday afternoon, 1:00–3:00 p.m.  You're invited to join us at the Bishops Corner Branch Library for an hour of casual conversation. Improve your English skills while making new friends in this relaxed and welcoming environment! Call 561-8212 for more information or just drop in on Tuesday afternoon. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

Drop by the Bishops Corner branch library on Wednesday afternoons and enjoy the company of friends as we share this terrific craft. Everyone is welcome—all ages and all skill levels. Instruction on a simple project will be provided. Beginners please bring a skein of bulky yarn; needles will be available. No registration necessary. For more information, please call 561-8213. We are currently looking for adult knitters who might want to volunteer to help teach this craft. The Bishops Corner library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford

Whether a beginner or experienced in yoga, Yoga Just for Women, a new class at the Mandell JCC, may be just what women need to relax, renew and rejuvenate. Designed to appeal to all comfort levels and modesty preferences, Yoga Just for Women is held every Wednesday from 7:00-8:00 p.m. until December 16. The class is free for Mandell JCC members and open to non-JCC members at $10 per class. For more information, contact Sara Billings, 860-231-6331, sbillings@mandelljcc.org. The Mandell JCC is located on the Zachs Campus at 335 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford, CT 06117.

Kandyce Aust, director of the University’s Alumni Relations department, and Linda Schultz, associate director of Career Services at the University, will teach participants strategies and self-assessment tools to identify their transferrable skills and effectively market themselves to employers. To register, call the University’s Center for Professional Development at 860.768.5619. The workshop will be held in the Konover Campus Center, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford. Participants can sign in from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Presentations take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

West Hartford - Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center at 303 Tunxis Rd. (behind and down the street from the UConn Health Center) is offering a Centering Prayer silent weekend retreat presented by Fr. Carl Arico from Feb. 19-21. Centering Prayer is waiting upon God with loving openness, fulfilling the Scriptural invitation to "Be still and know that I am God" (Ps 46:10).  The retreat will include presentations and question and answer sessions, as well as the practice of Centering Prayer.  Fr. Carl Arico is a founding member and the vice president of Contemplative Outreach, Ltd. Since Contemplative Outreach began in 1984, Fr. Arico has been part of its growth and development. He is the co-author of Living Our Priesthood Today, with Fr. Basil Pennington, and author of A Taste of Silence. Beginners to Centering Prayer are most welcome. The requested offering is $210.00 - $250.00.  Information is available at (860) 521-0440.  Register online at www.holyfamilyretreat.org. 

Autism awareness has taken a national spotlight in recent years.  New York Sports Club, located in Blue Back Square, has partnered with Jocelyn’s Run, a new local autism charity to raise money and awareness about autism in Connecticut by hosting the state’s first indoor triathlon on Saturday, Feb 20th and Sunday, Feb. 21st. Specifically, the triathlon will consist of fifteen minutes of swimming, thirty minutes of stationary biking and 30 minutes of running or walking on a treadmill.  Entry fees are $40 for members of NYSC and $50 for non-members with all proceeds benefiting Jocelyn’s Run. Jocelyn's Run: A Marathon of Support is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to make a difference in the lives of children and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).  The goal is to provide funding for services such as family getaways and parent support groups, interactive play programs, learning equipment, and training for childcare workers. Interested parties may register or volunteer for the Blue Back Square triathlon event on www.jocelynsrun.org.

Hearty tavern food, rollicking tunes, tavern games, and delicious beverages make for a great night out! This winter, the Noah Webster House and West Hartford Historical Society will offer four of our popular Tavern Nights. Tavern Nights are evenings of hearty tavern fare, drink, lively music, and tavern games. Tavern Nights will be offered on the evenings of Saturday, February 20, and Friday & Saturday, March 12 & 13. Each night offers a different menu or entertainment. Sittings are offered at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. each night (6 & 8 p.m. on Friday) and reservations are required. Tickets for each night are $30 per person for the general public and $25 for museum members. The price includes dinner, two complimentary drinks, live music, and tavern games. Tavern Night on Saturday, February 20 will include pork pie, glazed carrots, bean salad and cranberry cake. The entertainer will be Rick Spencer who will perform some of hit favorite drinking songs and ballads. A valid ID is required for alcoholic drinks. Vegetarian options must be requested at the time reservations are made. Call (860) 521-5362, extension 10, for reservations or further information.

Saturday, February 20 - Girl in Sports Day: A full day of activities for girls only ages 8 through 14. The event consists of interactive skill sessions of various sports taught by the College’s coaches and student athletes which will include: tennis, volleyball, cheerleading, softball, soccer, swimming, basketball, athletic training and cross-country running. A team building/leadership workshop and lunch will follow the sports clinics. An NCAA basketball game – Saint Joseph College vs. Pine Manor College – wraps up the afternoon festivities. Participants are to come dressed and ready to take an active part in each session. The event will begin at 8:45 a.m. at Saint Joseph College’s O'Connell Athletic Center, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford. Admission: free of charge; advance registration required.

The second in a series of comedy nights will celebrate women with an all girl line up of comedians.    Join headliner Fran Capo along with Jennifer Myszkowski and Anne Kissel for a night of laughs.  Perfect for Girls Night Out!    The performance is scheduled for 8:00pm at Playhouse on Park located at 244 Park Road, West Hartford.   Tickets are $15, general admission.  Mature audiences only.    Order tickets by calling 860-523-5900 ext 10 or visit www.playhouseonpark.org.   Call for group reservations.

Fran Capo has appeared on over 350 TV shows and 3500 radio shows including: Entertainment Tonight, Last Call with Carson Daly and the Late Show. She is a 5 time world record holder, most known as the Guinness Book of World Records fastest talking female. She has her own TV show called: Live it Up! With Donna Drake and Fran Capo.  Jennifer Myszkowski is a corporate drone by day, a popular radio personality by weekend (Bear Country 95.3 FM, Greenfield, Mass.) and a stand-up comic by night. She performs all around the New England region and lives in Holyoke, Mass.  Hosting our comedy night is Anne Kissel, who performs as a Roseanne Barr lookalike.

The Farmington Valley Rowing Club provides access to the sport of rowing to men and women of all ages and all abilities in North Central Connecticut. FVRA offers open sweep rowing sessions to its members to enjoy the Farmington River, while benefiting from a full-body, low-impact workout. As an organization, we value teamwork and find joy in rowing for exercise and competition. We strive to be positive members of the local community. If you've ever watched the shells skimming along rivers or lakes and said to yourself, "I'd like to do that some day," now is the time! Learn to row or improve your technique with hour-long Sunday sessions at Trinity College's indoor rowing facility in Hartford. 

Sunday - Jan 17, 24, 31. Feb 7, 21, 28. Makeup date Mar 7.  Novice/Intermediate 1-2PM; Experienced/Advanced 2-3PM.  $105 for all 6 sessions. See the FVRA website: www.fvra.org.  Sign up now to guarantee your seat! Contact:  info@fvra.org. Connie Clifford, FVRA Tanks Coordinator
860 242 1111.

The Museum will open early on February 21 for families with children on the Autism Spectrum.  Come explore our exhibits and see the stars in the Travelers Science Dome.  Families are welcome to stay after the Museum opens to the public at 11:00 AM.

Pre-registration is welcome, but not required.  Please call 860.231.2830 x44 or e-mail. events@thechildrensmuseumct.org.

FREE for TCM Members, $12/person for Non-members

Hebrew Health Hospice will be hosting an Adult Bereavement Group at Hebrew Health Care at their 1 Abrahms Blvd., West Hartford campus. The support group will meet every Tuesday from February 16th to March 23rd from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM in the Adult Day Center.  Free of charge. Facilitated by Lia Fulmer MA, MEd. Pre-registration Required. Please contact Lia Fulmer for more information at 860.523.3888.

Jewish Family Services offering FREE Money Coach to help with acute financial issues related to current employment problems. Wednesdays 9-3 and Thurs mornings, by appointment.  Call 860-236-1927. Jewish Family Services, 333 Bloomfield Ave. Suite A, West Hartford, CT 06117     

The Bishops Corner library offers free, one-on-one career counseling appointments every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 561-8212 for more information. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

NEW! Practice English, every Tuesday afternoon, 1:00–3:00 p.m.  You're invited to join us at the Bishops Corner Branch Library for an hour of casual conversation. Improve your English skills while making new friends in this relaxed and welcoming environment! Call 561-8212 for more information or just drop in on Tuesday afternoon. The library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

Drop by the Bishops Corner branch library on Wednesday afternoons and enjoy the company of friends as we share this terrific craft. Everyone is welcome—all ages and all skill levels. Instruction on a simple project will be provided. Beginners please bring a skein of bulky yarn; needles will be available. No registration necessary. For more information, please call 561-8213. We are currently looking for adult knitters who might want to volunteer to help teach this craft. The Bishops Corner library is located at 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford

FILM DISCUSSION: Racism and the Possibility of a Post-Racial Society. Led by Marsha McCurdy, a Cornell Certified Diversity professional, our discussion will be based on a short video interview featuring Andra Gillespie of Emory University. Race Matters is held at and sponsored by the Faxon Branch Library and co-sponsored by the West Hartford Initiative on Racial and Ethnic Diversity (WHIRED). The Faxon Library is located at 1073 New Britain Avenue. Call 561-8201 for more information.

Whether a beginner or experienced in yoga, Yoga Just for Women, a new class at the Mandell JCC, may be just what women need to relax, renew and rejuvenate. Designed to appeal to all comfort levels and modesty preferences, Yoga Just for Women is held every Wednesday from 7:00-8:00 p.m. until December 16. The class is free for Mandell JCC members and open to non-JCC members at $10 per class. For more information, contact Sara Billings, 860-231-6331, sbillings@mandelljcc.org. The Mandell JCC is located on the Zachs Campus at 335 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford, CT 06117.

The Mandell JCC’s Chase Family Gallery will exhibit “Israel: Time and Diversity” from February 25 through March 28. Connecticut Photographer Hank Paper shares his vision of the people and landscape of today’s Israel. Paper captures the spiritual, vocational and recreational activities of modern Israelis, implying through his lens where Israel has come from and where it is going. A free opening reception with the artist will be held on Sunday, March 7 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. For more information, contact Jill Ziplow, Mandell JCC, Zachs Campus, 335 Bloomfield Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117, 860-231-6339, jziplow@mandelljcc.org.

Contact The Bridge Family Center at 521-8035 for more information.

I Giovani Solisti, the chamber orchestra made up of the premier string musicians from both Conard and Hall High Schools, is preparing for its annual "Chocolate Café" to be presented at West Hartford's Town Hall Auditorium Saturday, February 27, 7 p.m. For connoisseurs of both chamber music and chocolate, the annual event provides a combination of musical and edible offerings, traditionally selling out to an audience of 400-plus.
 
Tickets are available by mail order at $15 each for reserved table seating (8 per table) and $10 each for balcony seating. Each ticket includes one dessert and one beverage. To request a ticket order form by e-mail, please contact coreenms@sbscglobal.net. For general information, please call 860-231-5000, ext. 6038.
 
The concert, which will feature a lively mix of classical, contemporary, and popular music, will include the 2010 Inter-El Orchestra and several soloists from I Giovani Solisti. Those who attend will experience the majesty of Vaughan-Williams, the fiery virtuocity of Sarasate, and toe-tapping fiddle tunes while enjoying a delicious chocolate dessert. 

The Hartt School Community Division will offer a Modern Dance Master Class with Katie Stevinson-Nollet, Artistic Director of Full Force Dance Theatre (FFDT), Hartt’s dance company in residence, this February.  The Class, open to teens 15 and older, as well as adults, will be followed by an in-studio performance by FFDT dancers.  The Class will take place on Sunday, February 28, from 1:00 PM to 3:15 PM, and the cost is $20 for tickets purchased in advance, and $25 at the door. 

Join us for an afternoon of lively music and dance along with a lovely, catered, afternoon meal.  

The Klezmen provide the musical entertainment and Crown Market is catering this popular event.  Klezmer music has its roots in Eastern European Jewish Culture.  It is lively music to listen to and invites dance and movement. The afternoon meal will include Garden Salad, Challah Bread, Boneless Breast of Chicken Piccata, Roast Brisket of Beef, Potato Kugel, Dilled Carrots, Apple Strudel and Coffee or Tea. This is a popular event. Be sure to make your reservations early!   

Cost:  Member $18; Nonmember $22. Co-Sponsor:  Chatfield. For more information, call the Elmwood Senior Center at 860-561-8180.