Sherman Library book sale, other news

On May 16 at 6:30 p.m., the Gunn Historical Museum in Washington will present the Zoom guest lecture “How the Lake Waramaug Task Force Brought the Lake Back from the Brink” with Sean Hayden, executive director of the Lake Waramaug Task Force.

Registration is required to receive the link for this free virtual program. To register, visit gunnlibrary.org.

Historically, Lake Waramaug was a clean, clear lake, but the lake started to exhibit signs of real distress beginning in the 1950s and continued worsening throughout the 1970s and into the early 1980s, a press release said.

The lake’s eutrophication (the gradual dying of a lake) was accelerating dramatically and something needed to be done as persistent toxic algae blooms, hazardous to human health were becoming a continuous problem, the release said. Recreational activities on the lake were curtailed, real estate values were falling and the future of the lake did not look promising. Uncontrolled run-off from farms, septic systems, lawns, houses and roads in the lake’s watershed area produced phosphorus levels that soared to over 30 parts per million. In response to this critical situation, the Lake Waramaug Task Force was founded in 1975 by a group of concerned lake residents.

Through the dedicated efforts of volunteers, the Task Force raised substantial funds from federal, state and private sources to support cutting-edge scientific research in limnology (the study of lakes). There are many water-quality projects and programs that the Task Force has been developing and implementing over the past four decades, and Hayden will present a photo-rich tour through all that the Task Force does for Lake Waramaug and its watershed, the release said.

The museum is at 5 Wykeham Road, Washington. For more information, visit gunnmuseum.org or call 860-868-7756.

Sherman Library activities and events

At the Sherman Library Book Sale, peruse the collection of new and gently used books while supporting the library. Early Bird and Dealers’ hour is May 28 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and costs $10 for admittance. Regular hours are May 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and May 29 from 9 a.m. to noon.

On June 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Sherman Library will host its third annual Golf Tournament fundraiser to be held at the Whippoorwill Country Club, 150 Whippoorwill Road, Armonk, NY. There will be complimentary on-course refreshments, a post-round barbeque, socializing, silent auction, and open bar.

Tickets are available at shermanlibrary.org/golf.

Classic Book Discussion Group through Zoom: May 6, 10:30 a.m. “Beloved” by Toni Morrison, discussion led by Sheila Kaplan. Copies of the book are available at the library.

Yoga Nidra through Zoom: May 6 at 7 p.m. with Mariya Hurwitz. Yoga Nidra is a wonderful way to relax and unwind, a release said.

Lovers Leaps through Zoom, May 12 at 7 p.m.: Join Paul Wegner of the Institute of American Indian Studies for a discussion on Lovers Leaps. Truly fatal falls, legends of romantic tragedy, or both?

Pollinator Gardens through Zoom, May 18, 7 p.m.: Join Sherman resident Michelle MacKinnon to learn about pollinator gardens, why they’re important and how to create your own.

Book Discussion Group through Zoom: May 20, 7:30 p.m. “Hamnet” by Maggie O’Farrell, discussion led by Pat Corrigan. Copies of the book are available at the library. To participate, email [email protected].

Golf Tournament, library fundraising event, June 27, registration is at 9 a.m., tee off 10 a.m.

Children’s program: Pom Pom Palooza, May 13, 3:30 p.m.: Make Spring Pom Poms. Using pom pom makers, yarn, “googly eyes,” and low-heat glue guns, make key chains, zipper pulls for your backpack or jacket, pom pomtopped pencils, and more. All materials will be provided. This is recommended for children ages 8 and over. To register, email [email protected] or visit the website.

Summer internships with Steep Rock Association

Steep Rock Association (SRA), an accredited nonprofit land trust in Washington is hiring summer interns.

They are recruiting college and high school students who want to make a difference in the community this summer, gain real-world skills in land conservation, sustainable agriculture and nonprofit management, and have fun in the process, a release said.

Steep Rock is seeking two Judea Garden interns to support our community-based agriculture program. Interns will identify and control insects, diseases and weeds, use succession harvesting through planting for fall crops, harvest and distribute foods, and participate in all garden tasks.

Our Community Engagement intern will help execute creative outreach strategies for preserve visitors, interview volunteers, organize donor events, and provide general data entry support.

The Administrative Intern will gain hands-on experience in office and non-profit administration, including researching and archiving records, fielding public inquiries and camping requests, editing Steep Rock’s website, and designing flyers, newsletters, and other materials.

For more information, visit steeprockassoc.org or call 860-868-9131.

Roxbury, Minor Memorial Library to host “Temperance in Litchfield County”

The event will be at the Mine Hill Distillery May 6 at 5:30 pm. There is no charge for this program. All attendees must RSVP and be over the age of 21.

The Temperance movement has a long history in Litchfield County. Peter Vermilyea, history teacher and Litchfield County expert, will tell tales of imbibing and abstinence through the centuries, a release said.

Following the talk, adjourn to the distillery for a tour and craft cocktails featuring Mine Hill’s award-winning beverages. Call 860-350-2181 or visit minormemoriallibrary.org for more information and directions.

Washingtion: The Wizard of Oz on stage at Shepaug Valley School

The performance will be April 29 to May 1.

The Wizard of Oz will be performed by an all-student cast and crew of students from Shepaug Valley Middle School and High School.

Tickets can be purchased through the Box Office by calling 860-251-9369 or in person at the door. All performances will take place in the theater at Shepaug Valley School, 159 South St., Washington. Evening performances take place April 29 at 7 p.m. and April 30 at 7 p.m. A matinee performance is May 1 at 3 p.m. General admission tickets are $10. Tickets for students and senior citizens are $5.

Gunn Historical Museum: “Merchants of Washington”

On May 10 at 6:30 p.m., the Gunn Historical Museum’s Washington History Club at Night will meet on Zoom to discuss “Merchants of Washington, Past & Present.”

A lively group conversation, moderated by long-time Washington resident Dimitri Rimsky, about memorable shopkeepers, pharmacists, barbers, grocers, etc from Washington’s history.

To receive the Zoom link for this free program, register at: gunnlibrary.org/. Call 860-868-7756 for more information.

Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day with House of Books, Kent

House of Books, now back in its renovated location at 10 North Main St., is gearing up for Independent Bookstore Day April 30.

For the little ones, there will be an Animal Menagerie Storytime at 3 p.m., with special guests from the Sharon Audubon Center. Learn about birds and animals native to Connecticut and read a story with our animal friends. At 6 p.m., local author Leigh Newman will be in the house to discuss her latest short story collection, Nobody Gets Out Alive.

Visit HouseOfBooksCT.com/events for more information and a list of participating stores.

Event calendar: ● Ann Hood in conversation with Dani Shapiro on Saturday, May 7 ● Sergio Troncoso on Friday, May 27 ● Courtney Maum in conversation with Victoria Hood on Saturday, May 28 ● Victoria Buitron on Friday, June 10 ● Lisa Taddeo on Thursday, June 16.

All of these upcoming events are free.

Community Culinary School offers children’s summer Cooking classes, New Milford

The Community Culinary School announces summer cooking classes for children ages 8 and up. The “Cooking as a Life Skill” sessions will provide children with skills that will benefit them for a lifetime, a release said. This enriching, exciting, and healthy summer experience will allow each child to get the most out of their summer break.

Utilizing cooking as a creative outlet, children will gain an understanding of basic cooking techniques and nutrition, which can lead to a healthier and happier self. Classes will also include safe food practices.

The summer classes include two 5-day sessions: August 8-12 and August 15-19 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Tuition is $300 per child. Early registration is encouraged due to small class size.

To enroll your child, please contact the school at 203-512-5791 or visit communityculinaryschool.org for more information.

Knights of Columbus Housatonic Council to have car show, New Milford

The Knights of Columbus, Housatonic Council in conjunction with the 4th Degree will be hosting a car show on May 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, 26 Chestnut St.

They are looking for potential sponsors for this event that can contribute any kind of donation. Proceeds will go to the Ukraine relief support and the Church.

Washington: Create Your Conservation Legacy: May 2 webinar

On May 2 at 7 p.m. this free planned giving and estate planning is presented by Suzanne Brown Walsh, Esq., chair of the Trusts and Estates Department at Murtha Cullina.

In this webinar, get exclusive tips on:

· How to create will and estate planning strategies that increase your family’s security now and in the future;

· How legacy gifts can help you achieve your philanthropic priorities without parting with assets during your lifetime;

· Simple ways to add your favorite land trust to your estate plans without redoing your will;

· Crypto & estate plans

Register at steeprockassoc.org.

Washington Art Association presents artists Greenberg, Spilner

Both Marilyn Greenberg and Candy Spilner have been inspired by ceremonies experienced in southeast Asia ranging from Balinese dance to funerary rites and festivals. Both artists have brought these experiences home to their studios like mystical treasures to enrich the western canon of 20th century abstract painting, a release said.

All of the work is made on and with paper.

“Evoking the Muse” will be on exhibit April 30 to June 5, Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday at noon – 4 p.m.

New Milford library young adult events

Here are May young adult events for grades 6-12. Most events are in person at the Marsh Parish House unless otherwise indicated. RSVP for all programs at [email protected].

· Sunflowers for Ukraine! Weave some sunflowers with Jody Hyman. May 13 from 4-5:30 p.m.

· Let’s Talk About “Encanto”! Play “Encanto” kahoot, then make some decorations for the Teen Zone. May 26 from 4-5:30 p.m.

· Dungeons & Dragons meets May 2 and May 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

· Game On: Games & Chess Club is May 10 from 6:30-8 p.m.

· Graphic Novels Book Club is May 15 from 3 to 4 p.m.

· Write Stuff is May 19 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. with creative writing expert Alice Schuette.

New Milford Public Library events

Foreign Film Fridays in May, a series at The Maxx from 4 to 6 p.m. Popcorn and drinks will be served.

May 6 – The Red Star, Spanish w/English subtitles, not rated, 72 minutes – A mockumentary about the fictional Leila Salama, a mysterious woman who may have contributed to the capture of Adolf Eichmann in Buenos Aires in 1960, but was neglected by official history.

May 13 – The Truffle Hunters, Italian w/English subtitles, PG-13, 84 minutes – Guided by a secret culture passed down for generations as well as by their expertly trained dogs, a group of men in Italy hunt for the rare and expensive white Alba truffle.

May 3, 7 p.m. at The Maxx, Military History Program on the anniversary of the Purple Heart

On May 3, 1783, Gen. George Washington did something unheard of in the military. He awarded medals for bravery to two enlisted soldiers. A third received the award — the Badge of Military Merit, predecessor of today’s Purple Heart — a month later. They were the only documented awards during the Revolution … and all were Connecticut residents, a release said.

Join Gerard Monaghan, a retired Army Reserve lieutenant colonel, military historian, and New Milford resident, on the 239th anniversary of the first award. He will trace the stories of these heroes.

May 5, 7 p.m. on Zoom: This lecture will tell the story of Mallory Mortillaro’s journey to authenticate a marble bust of Napoleon sculpted by Auguste Rodin, which had been sitting in a New Jersey town hall for almost 80 years.

May 12, 7 p.m. at the Marsh Parish House

Backyard Gardening for Nature

Explore ways with Elizabeth O’Connor, naturalist educator, to attract wildlife and make your property a healthier and safer place for all, a release said.

May 14, 10 a.m. to noon at the Marsh Parish House, Sunflowers for Ukraine

Come weave a sunflower to hang in your home to show your support for Ukraine.

May 19, 7 p.m. at the Marsh Parish House

Zentangle

Zentangle is an American method for drawing, which not only promotes concentration and creativity but at the same time increases personal well-being, a press release said.

Bridgewater library to display art by Denise Schlesinger

Burnham Library will display works in acrylics by artist Denise Schlesinger of Sherman. The show is entitled “Big, Little Details” and will be on display to May 28. Burnham Library is at 62 Main St. in Bridgewater. For additional information, visit burnhamlibrary.org or call 860-354-6937.

Sherman Library Women’s Soiree Sip

The event is May 27, offering a chance to socialize, sip wine, nibble on passed hors d’oeuvres, and celebrate summer’s arrival by scoring a fashion victory or two, a release said.

This event features a silent auction and the sale of handbags, scarves, jewelry, and other accessories, all to benefit the Sherman Library.

The Soiree also presents spring-cleaners with an opportunity to donate new or gently-used treasures for a good cause. They are accepting donations of new or like-new handbags, wallets, etc., quality scarves (cleaned and ready to wear) and jewelry. Drop off donations by May 11 during library hours.

Advance tickets are $30 and are available for purchase at the library or online through 6 p.m. on May 26, after which tickets will be $35 online and at the door. Online ticket sales close at noon on May 27. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit shermanlibrary.org/soiree, or contact Jamie Cantoni at 860-354-2455 or [email protected].

The Sherman Library presents “Through My Eyes,” paintings by Ed Smith

Smith’s paintings are a combination of realistic and impressionistic, capturing the beauty around us, its moods, and light. Smith’s show will be on display at the Sherman Library to June 1.

Ed Smith’s paintings cover a wide range of subjects including, cityscapes, landscapes, and portraiture. To see more, visit edsmithartist.com.

HVHD offers mental health programs virtually and at senior centers

Feeling stressed and isolated from the pandemic? Housatonic Valley Health District will be offering two-hour sessions to learn more about promoting positive mental health and combating feelings of anxiety, stress and loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

To raise awareness about mental health, Housatonic Valley Health District will begin hosting “Coping During Times of COVID-19” programs in the community.

Topics will include general information regarding mental health, facts and myths regarding mental health, how to promote positive mental health through a healthy lifestyle, tips to combat stress, tips to deal with COVID related stress and anxiety, and supporting the senior community with the effects of the COVID pandemic.

To attend this program virtually, join the Housatonic Valley Health District on May 12 from 3 to 5 p.m. To register for the virtual program, visit hvhd.us/event/coping-during-times-of-covid-19/.

Sherman Chamber Ensemble Kicks Off 40th Season “Best of Baroque”

Concerts Feature Brandenburg Concerto April 30 in Pawling and Washington, May 1 in Kent.

Performers are masters of the Baroque era played by chamber music artists. The program will include music for piano, flute and strings by Corelli, Handel, Vivaldi. It concludes with the Baroque repertoire – Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 5, BWV 1050.

Joining the ensemble for the first time is Yamaha Artist and pianist Evan Shinners, a graduate of the Juilliard School and now a mentor at the institution. Since 2010, he has devoted himself almost exclusively to the study and performance of the works of J.S. Bach. Other performers are SCE Artistic Director and cellist Eliot Bailen, Susan Rotholz (flute), Doori Na (violin), Jane Chung (violin), Jameel Martin (viola), and Peter Weitzner, double bass.

The ensemble will present concerts April 30 at 4 p.m. at Christ Church on Quaker Hill, 17 Church Road, in Pawling, NY and at 7:30 p.m. at the Salem Covenant Church, 96 Baldwin Hill Road in Washington. On May 1, they will perform at 4 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Church, 1 North Main St., in Kent.

Performances at St. Andrew’s Church are presented in conjunction with the church’s Music in the Nave series. General admission tickets are $25, and children 15 and under are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased by visiting SCEmusic.org or at the door. For information or reservations, call 860-355-5930 or email [email protected].

GMS Rowing Center to host spring open house

Learn-To-Row Events GMS Rowing Center in New Milford will host an open-house ‘Learn-To-Row’ event, which is free to those age 13 and older. Younger participants are also welcome and can try their skill on the rowing machine or ‘erg’ on land. The Learn-to-Row open house will take place May 14 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome and participants should be able to swim. Call 860-350-4004 for more information.

Restoring Riparian Habitat: An Exploration in Nature, in Washington

Are you concerned about the health of streams and rivers, and the growing threat their natural communities face with increasingly erratic weather patterns and warming temperatures?

Join Steep Rock Association (SRA) to discuss stewardship actions that build climate resilience and witness our efforts to restore waterways in Steep Rock Preserve firsthand.

Meet at the main Steep Rock Preserve parking lot at 2 Tunnel Road, Washington Depot, May 7, rain or shine. Embark on a level, 3-mile round trip hike, first stopping at a site on the Shepaug River before continuing to one of its tributary streams. The two completed habitat enhancement projects the group will visit are the removal of a dysfunctional culvert and stabilization of a severely eroded riverbank.

There is much to learn from the complexity of these undertakings, including measures landowners can readily employ to improve riparian habitat on private property, a release said. Registration is required and donations are gratefully accepted. Please register at steeprockassoc.org/events-programs/.

Spring arts, fine crafts show expands to two weekends at Gaylordsville hotel

The fifth annual Spring Arts and Fine Crafts show at the historic Merwinsville Hotel in Gaylordsville will be April 29 to May 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Over 60 local artists and artisans will have work on display at the show and all is for sale.

The show features artwork in glass, photography, jewelry, sculpture, fiber, woodwork, pottery and paintings in watercolors, oil and acrylic. Locally grown plants are also available for sale from Meadowbrook Garden in New Milford and The Village Farm Shop and Greenhouse in Gaylordsville.

From April 30 and May 1, there will be mini art classes in both the morning and afternoon, taught by artists participating in the show. They will include painting, sculpture, felting, metalsmithing and more.

The Merwinsville Hotel is a national historic landmark located at 1 Browns Forge Road in Gaylordsville. For further information, call 860-350-4443 or visit merwinsvillehotel.org.

Tim Donoghue collages at Roxbury Library

“Tim Donoghue Collages,” an exhibit of works by Tim Donoghue at Minor Memorial Library, 23 South St., Roxbury, will begin with an opening reception May 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. The show will continue during regular library hours through June 25 except when the Community Room is in use for a special library program. Call the library at (860) 350-2181 for information and directions.

Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with Kent Historical Society and KECNS for an interactive walking tour of Kent

The event is May 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees receive a commemorative ticket that provides eco-friendly mobile access to a self guided tour. Tickets are $10 in advance and $20 at the door. Proceeds benefit KECNS, Kent Nursery School.

Washington’s Hollister House Garden is giving a series of “Barn Talks.”

The lectures are taught by experienced garden professionals and are designed to inspire and educate new and experienced gardeners. Reservations are strongly suggested.

The spring program of lectures is as follows:

April 30 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Book Barn Talk: Edible Landscaping in New England, presented by Dan Furman

May 7 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Barn Talk: Shade Revealed: How to Garden Successfully in Low Light, presented by Amy Ziffer

May 21 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Barn Talk: Development of a Garden, presented by Leslie Needham

May 28 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Barn Talk: Container Counsel: Tips and Tricks for Creating Successful Container Plantings, presented by Robert Clyde Anderson

Barn Talks are held on Saturday mornings from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the renovated 18th century barn at Hollister House Garden. Reservations can be made at hollisterhousegarden.org/lectures.

HHG members pay $25, other pay $35.

The garden will also offer a full program of art and photography workshops. A complete listing of dates, times and registration links for all upcoming events can be found at www.hollisterhousegarden.com/events.

Experts to give talk on war in Ukraine at Washington library

There are a lot of factors behind the war in Ukraine that make understanding the situation rather complicated, a release said. Join the Gunn Memorial Library virtually via Zoom May 5 at 6 p.m. to welcome members of the United Nations Association of Connecticut who will present a panel discussion on the historical scholarship, personal engagement, and the current situation in Ukraine. Panel members include Dr. Sergei Kambalov, a retired director of the United Nations, Alex Kuzma, a Ukrainian Attorney and Educator; Hamish Lutris, a historian and college professor; and Dr. Joseph Baxer, president of the United Nations Association of Connecticut and moderator of this discussion. This panel will explore this historical moment including the unintended consequences of this war and its media coverage. Questions will be welcomed in advance and during the program. Register at gunnlibrary.org/programs.

Connecticut Antique Machinery Association’s annual spring power-up

This will be April 30 and May 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association museum grounds, 31 Kent-Cornwall Road (Route 7), Kent.

The CT Antique Machinery Association (CAMA) presents it’s Spring Power-Up, a celebration of the machinery that made America great, a release said. Giant steam engines, a steam locomotive, gas engines, farm tractors: CAMA’s collection of steam and gas powered machinery will be in full operation on this day. Vendors will be selling a variety of old machinery, engines and tools.

For information, call 860-927-0050 or visit ctamachinery.com.

Washington: “The Alternative Photography of Robert Gumpper”

At Gunn Memorial Library, Valerie Gumpper shares a collection of photographs by her father, Robert Gumpper, showing a wide range of antique processes.

Gumpper’s photographs will be on display at the Gunn Memorial Library from April 30 to June 11. Meet and greet Gumpper April 30 from noon to 2 p.m.

His work expressed anti-war statements in some, his fear of death and the unknown in others, as well as evoking simple beauty in many. Gunn Memorial Library is located at 5 Wykeham Road. For more information call 860-868-7586 or email the library circulation desk, [email protected].

New Milford art gallery hosts watercolor exhibit

The Silo Art Gallery at Hunt Hill Farm hosts a Watercolor exhibit of works of Sandra Cointreau to kick off its 50th anniversary. The reception and show are open to the public on weekends until May 1.

The new exhibit of watercolors at the gallery focuses on movement by bull riders, rodeo cowboys and barrel racers, race cars, dancing Native Americans, and flying crows.

The Silo Gallery at Hunt Hill Farm, is at 44 Upland Road.

Gallery 25, Creative Arts Studio holds “Sounds of Spring” and new featured artist show, “A Summer Place”

Paintings are by Christine Lombardi. Gallery members are bringing in new photographs, paintings, pottery, jewelry, fused glass and woodworks to celebrate spring. The Gallery show will be up through May 28 and Lombardi’s paintings through May 1. For more information, visit gallery25ct.com.

Washington Art Association & Gallery

The Washington Art Association is at 4 Bryan Memorial Plaza, Washington Depot. For more information, email [email protected], call 860-868-2878, or visit washingtonartassociation.org.

The Garden Club’s Plant Mart is May 21 at the Bridgewater Firehouse from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The sale will include pollinator plants that can be grown successfully in containers.

For more information, visit roxburylandtrust.org, email [email protected] or call 860-350-4148.

New Milford Rotary Club holding shredding day

The Community Document Shredding Day is on May 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Pettibone Community Center, 2 Pickett District Road. No appointment is necessary, there is no limit to the number of boxes brought to be shredded. Staff from the shredding company will handle the documents and will shred. The shredded material will then be recycled. The cost is $10 per standard copy paper-type box.

For more information or those with a large number of boxes, call 860-866-7141, email [email protected] or visit nmrotary.org.

Roxbury library presenting art exhibit by Gerry Sacks

Roxbury library artist to Gerry Sacks will present “Art in Motion,” an exhibit at Minor Memorial Library, 23 South St., through May 7. Call 860-350-2181 for more information and directions.