Survivors Swing
We’re going to the dogs and cats this weekend. Branford Compassion Club is holding its gala at the Pine Orchard Club (tickets are still available) and there’s a Dog Parade at Evergreen Woods. Plenty of opportunities to enjoy the arts at the Branford Arts Center and concerts at our local libraries, not to mention a heavy dose of the arts coming up in June at the International Festival of Arts and Ideas in New Haven. Expand your horizons!
Friday, May 19
Branford Compassion Club Celebrates 20 Years
The Branford Compassion Club feline rescue and adoption organization celebrates its 20th anniversary Friday, May 19, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., with Swing Cats Cocktail Party, a Swing era-themed benefit, at Pine Orchard Yacht & Country Club, 2 Club Parkway.
Attendees will be transported back to a ’40s nightclub and get “in the mood” with the spirited dancing music of the aptly named The Survivors Swing Band, inspired by its lively 95-year-old sax player Jules Bashkin.
As BCC has survived and grown from a small group of volunteers working out of their homes to an 80-plus-member organization of volunteers with its own Feline Rescue & Adoption Center at 2037 Foxon Road, North Branford, The Survivors carry on their mission of keeping alive the music of Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Cole Porter, and other musical giants of the 1930s and ’40s.
There will be dancing, silent auction, hors d’oeuvres stations, surprises, and a lot of appreciation to those who have supported the privately funded BCC for two decades. ’40s attire is encouraged, but not required. Tickets are $75 a person, available through brownpapertickets.com or by emailing [email protected].
This is one of only two major annual fundraisers, which help defray the costs of keeping BCC’s shelter open and vibrant. The other is Animal Awareness Day, Oct. 1 on the Branford Green.
BCC’s Feline Rescue & Adoption Center, 2037 Foxon Road, North Branford, is open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more event info, call Donna Doherty (203 – 481-3595) or Peg Johnson (203 – 444-0653). To donate or volunteer, visit http://www.branfordcompassionclub.org or call 203 – 483-6369.
Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20
BHS Alumni Brings Team to Branford
Miami Shore Doctors Charter School. Team Photo
The Miami Shores Hawks, the Doctors’ Charter School baseball team of Miami, Florida, coached by Branford High School alumni Paul Calli, will play two games against Branford JVs in town this weekend.
The first game on Friday will be played at 3:45 p.m. and the games on Saturday will be played at 10:30 p.m. and 12:30 p.m.
While attending Branford schools Calli played youth football, Pony League baseball, freshman and JV baseball, four years of varsity soccer and four years of varsity ice hockey. He later attended the University of Connecticut where he earned a varsity letter in hockey. A 1984 graduate of BHS, he is now a practicing attorney in Miami.
Saturday, May 20
Branford Art Center’s Two-Year Anniversary
Branford Art Center (BAC) will celebrate its two year anniversary on Saturday, May 20, from 5 to 8 p.m., at 1229 Main St in Branford with wine, refreshments, smooth jazz by John Brasil and Friends, and featuring nationally known sports, cinema and, music figure artist Marc Potocsky.
BAC opened its doors two years ago for its first art opening reception with 15 artists and a crowd of over 250 people. Since then, the green building with the large gold lettering at the bottom of the hill has become a place for people to visit, paint, create, shop for art and artsy gifts, and simply enjoy the welcoming and healing ambiance of the Art Center.
In addition to fine representational art, abstract art, and photographic prints, BAC offers an assortment of artisan gifts, such as hand-crafted jewelry, hand painted glassware, mosaic trays, stained glass, hand painted tiles, scarves, elegant wearable art, totes, cards, handmade soaps, felted items, and sculpture (large and tiny).
For more information about class schedules, events, and studio availability, call Yvonne Gordon-Moser at 860 – 334-4642 or email [email protected] and visit the gallery website www. branfordartcenterct.com.
Tom Lewis at Branford Folk Music Society
The Branford Folk Music Society will present Tom Lewis, one of North America’s foremost exponents of contemporary sea songs, on Saturday, May 20, at 8 p.m., at the First Congregational Church, 1009 Main St.His repertoire – from traditional shanties to songs fashioned out of his own seafaring background – recruits his audience for a voyage by turns reflective, dramatic and humorous. Long a Branford Folk audience favorite, this will be Tom’s sixth appearance at the coffeehouse.His musical career began in 1960 when he was posted to a naval station in Scotland and began frequenting local folk clubs. He retired from Her Majesty’s Royal Navy in 1983.Born in Northern Ireland, Tom’s Celtic heritage is obvious in his clear, strong voice, evoking quiet sorrow for a fisherman lost to the sea just as honestly as it powers out a shanty “to be heard above the gales.” Because of his naval background, he brings a rare authenticity to the realm of nautical song. Admission is $25 for non-members, $20 for members, $5 for children 12 and under.
Sunday, May 21
“Evergreen Woofs” Dog Parade
The ninth annual Evergreen Woofs Dog Parade will take place Sunday, May 21, at 10 a.m., at Evergreen Woods Community Building parking lot and lawn, 88 Notch Hill Road, North Branford.
The event is a fundraiser for Guiding Eyes for the Blind of Southern Connecticut, whose territory stretches from Wallingford to Deep River to New Haven. Dogs of all walks of life – and their owners – are welcome. Registration is $5 per pooch, with a unique award given to each entrant. Hot dogs and lemonade will be sold as well.
For more information, call Briana Benn-Mirandi at 203 – 483-3224 or email [email protected].
Neal Fitzpatrick and Elaine Thoma at Willoughby Wallace
A free guitar and flute concert by Neal Fitzpatrick and Elaine Thoma will take place at the Willoughby Wallace Library, 146 Thimble Islands Road, on Sunday, May 21, at 2 p.m.
Selections include English Suite No.4 for flute and guitar by 20th century British composer John Duarte; 3 Duos for flute and guitar, Opus 16 by 19th century Italian guitarist and composer Francesco Molini; Gymnopedie No.1 by French composer Eric Satie; Works by Franz Schubert from opus 33; and Selections from Opus 74 by 19th century Italian guitarist and composer Mauro Guliani.
The concert is sponsored by the Friends of Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library.
Beatlemania at the Blackstone
Relive the music, the memories and the magic of John, Paul, George and Ringo on Sunday, May 21, at 2 p.m., at the Blackstone Library, 758 Main St.Dressed in replica costumes with the exact instrumentation, The Hofners will play note-for-note renditions of The Beatles’ most beloved classics. The Hofners are a Beatles tribute band comprised of various singers and musicians who have performed in Beatle groups over the years. Relive the music, the memories and the magic of John, Paul, George and Ringo with note-for-note renditions of The Beatles’ most beloved classics from the ‘60s.The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Wednesday, May 25
Branford Town Government 101
Branford Town Government 101 will be presented on Wednesday, May 24, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Branford Fire Department, 45 Main St.
“Everything you always wanted to know about town government, but didn’t know who to ask” will include a discussion, mock RTM meeting, followed by light refreshments. This will be a basic primer on how Branford’s town government is organized and functions to serve its citizens. Free and open to the entire community.
Questions? Email [email protected] or visit Facebook page, www.facebook.com/BranfordDTC. Presented by the Branford Democratic Town Committee.
Branford Land Trust Celebrates 50th Anniversary
The Branford Land Trust kicks off its 50th anniversary celebration at the organization’s annual meeting at the Blackstone Memorial Library this evening. The guest speaker is Anthony Leiserowitz, Ph.D. who will be speaking on “Climate Change in the American Mind.” Leiserowitz is a Senior Research Scientist at the Yale University School of Forestry & Environmental Studies and the Director of the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication. Event gets underway at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
Thursday, May 25
Branford and the Refugee Experience
IRIS (Integrated Refugee and Immigration Services of New Haven) and the Branford Action Coalition will host an open dialogue on The Refugee Experience, from selection to resettlement, on Thursday, May 25, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Branford Fire Department, 45 North Main St.
This community forum will focus on the refugee experience and its impact on Branford and the shoreline, as well as the federal screening process that ensures that refugees are properly vetted. Chris George, executive director of IRIS, will lead the program, joined by Betsy Hyde of the Refugee Welcome Committee. The forum will be moderated by Reverend “Skip” Ferry, pastor of the Short Beach Union Church.
After the prepared presentations, there will be an open question and answer period, and, possibly, an opportunity to talk with a local refugee family about their re-settlement in Branford.
Locally, the Refugee Welcome Committee (made up of members of the Branford’s First Congregational Church, First Baptist Church and St. Mary Church, as well as other Branford residents) has helped a number of asylum-seekers escaping conflict and extreme hardship to find safety and security in Branford and other shoreline communities.
For more information, call Maryann Amore at 203 – 654-1006 or email [email protected].
Sunday, May 28
Stony Creek Museum 2017 Opening
The Stony Creek Museum kicks off its 2017 Season on Sunday, May 28 from 1 to 3 p.m. with its annual Ice Cream Social, along with a Touch a Truck from the Stony Creek Firehouse, the Walsh Intermediate School Dance Team, and a singing of the National Anthem.
This year’s feature exhibit, the End of the Line Stony Creek Trolleys in collaboration with the Shoreline Trolley Museum, features a depiction of the Stony Creek Village in 1920, in a model hand carved by Unk DaRos, Branford’s former first selectman.
The Stony Creek Museum features a public exhibition of manuscripts, pictures, objects, artifacts, memorabilia, and items that reflect the history of Stony Creek and the Thimble Islands. Other attractions shown in the exhibits include the Stony Creek Fife and Drum Corps, historic firefighting equipment, and a video on the puppets from the Weil family Sicilian puppet collection. A century-old Apothecary Store complete with original drugs is also displayed.
The Stony Creek Museum is open Memorial Day to Columbus Day, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. In addition, groups can be accommodated by appointment year round by calling 1 – 203-488‑4014. For more information, call 203 – 488-4014 or go to www.stonycreekmuseum.org.
Wednesday, May 31
Books ‘n’ Brews
“Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness,” by Susannah Calahan, and “The Lola Quartet,” by Emily St. John Mandel will be discussed at Books ‘n’ Brews, Blackstone Library’s off-site book club. The meeting is held at Thimble Island Brewery, 16 Business Park Drive, Wednesday, May 31, from 6 to 7 p.m.
New members are welcome. Copies of the books can be borrowed from the library, or purchased on your own. Feel free to bring your own snacks. Thimble Islands offers a selection of craft beers (must be 21+ to drink alcoholic beverages), wine, soda, and water. No purchase necessary to take part in the book club.
To register, call 203 – 488-1441.
Beginning Saturday, June 3
International Festival of Arts and Ideas
New Haven’s International Festival of Arts and Ideas takes place throughout the city from Saturday, June 3 though Saturday, June 24. It’s an extravaganza of performing arts, lectures, and conversations that takes over theaters and open spaces in New Haven.
Included are award-winning circus, dance, music, theater, and performances too unique to categorize. Festival artists are Grammy winners, Tony winners, MacArthur Genius Fellows, Oscar winners, and Bessie winners. Also featured are free open-air concerts on the New Haven Green and lectures and conversation that focus on contemporary themes in the humanities and social sciences.
For tickets and more information, go to http://www.artidea.org.
Monday, June 5
Branford Rotary 6th Annual Golf Classic
With Permission
The Branford Rotary Club announces its 6th annual Spring Golf Classic to be held at the Clinton Country Club, one of the oldest courses in the nation. The 18-hole course was designed by Geoffrey Cornish and is located at 128 Old Post Road, Clinton.
The Rotary tournament, a fundraiser, is designed to benefit a number of charities, including the Branford Counseling Center Basic Needs Program, Feed Branford Kids, local veterans’ groups, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Soundview YMCA Annual Campaign, Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, and Y‑NHH Male Breast Cancer Van Wilgen Fund.
Registration is $175 per golfer. For further details contact: Ed Vescovi: (203) 415‑9191/[email protected]; Doug Shaw: (203) 494‑8510/[email protected]. or www.branfordrotary.org. Contact Hap Storer for sponsor information and payment at 11 Grove Avenue, Branford 06405.
Thursday, June 8
Library Trivia Night
The Friends of the Blackstone Library’s Trivia Night fundraiser will take place on Thursday, June 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Pompeo’s Restaurant, 485 West Main St.
The Trivia Night consists of five rounds of questions in various categories designed to make you think, invite you to eat and drink, and enjoy a night out with friends and family. Rounds are 10 questions each, and the highest-scoring team wins. Prizes will be awarded. Play as an individual or form a team with friends. Food and beverages are available at reduced prices on site.
Admission is $15. Tickets will be sold at the door at 6:45 p.m. or in advance at the information desk at the Blackstone Library on Main Street. Visit
https://www.facebook.com/JBMLfriends/ or call 203 – 503-1829 for further information.
Looking Ahead
Animal Camp
Register now for Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter’s Animal Camp. Sessions will take place June 19 to June 23, June 26 to June 30, July 17 to July 21, July 24 to July 28, Aug. 14 to Aug. 18, and Aug. 21 to Aug. 25.
The camp is a fun, educational, hands-on camp that allows children to interact and learn about all kinds of animals. The focus is to promote respect for all living creatures, including each other. Included will be games such as animal tracking, nature art, and water games.
For more information or registration forms, go to branfordanimalshelter.org, call Laura at 203 – 315-4125, or Dawn at 203 – 393-8628.
Summer Playground Camp
Registration is open for Branford Recreation Department’s Summer Playground Camp for ages 5 – 12, which begins July 3. The camp will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, July 3 to Aug. 11 (no camp on July 4).
Cost for the basic camp program is $400 for six weeks. A Before Care Program costs an additional $125 and an After Care Program (from 3 to 5 p.m.) is an additional $175 per camper. Site choices for the 2017 Summer Camp include Hammer Field, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Stony Creek Playground, and Foote Park. Field trips are included in the basic camp fee with the exception of Lake Compounce Day (July 25), which is an additional $50. There are limited spots on the trip to Lake Compounce. Children must be enrolled in Summer Camp to register for this trip.
For further information or to register, the office at 203 – 488-8304 or to enroll online go to www.branfordrecreation.org.
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