Festival Time Berlin Fair

Page 1

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 1

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

It’s festival time

Inside

Berlin Fair Pages 11-13

Weekend section Pages 14-18

43rd Apple Harvest Festival starts Friday

Nicole Thompson, from Southington. took to the slide with her daughters, Amanda, 5 , left and Emily, 3, during the 2010 Apple Harvest Festival.

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2 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Three days of festival festivities start Friday By SUSAN CORICA STAFF WRITER

SOUTHINGTON — The apples are back and they’ve brought fireworks, rides, singers, dancers, bed races, a big parade, and a whole lot of other fun stuff with them. The 43rd annual Apple Harvest Festival starts Friday night with a carnival and a live band. The festivities continue all day Saturday and Sunday, then return for a second weekend Oct. 7 to 9. The highlight of the first weekend will be Saturday fireworks

at 9 p.m. and the parade Sunday plenty of other foods. several Mexican food vendors, at 2 p.m., according to James This year for the first time Champagne said. Champagne, festival coordinator. the festival will feature sushi, Also new this year will be a This year’s parade grand marshal corn on the cob, Greek food, and Lego display, an appearance by will be Lucy Leach, festival volunteer chairperson for many years and a supporter of events and services around town. The highlight of the second weekend will be the arts and crafts show and the Harvest the Arts workshops and activities, Champagne said. This year’s theme is “Let the Sun Shine, It’s Apple Time!� Naturally there will be apple pies and apple fritters, along with

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Rob Heyl | Staff

Juliette Marcuccio, 7, from Southington selects a backpack at the 2010 Apple Harvest Festival.

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Ronald McDonald, and a 37-footlong Thomas the Tank Engine, which will be chugging along in the parade with the festival hostesses as passengers. This year, both Friday nights of the festival will be Family Nights, when kids can purchase a wristband to ride all the carnival rides (except of the bungee jump) for one discounted price. Returning festival favorites include Southington Icon, where festival-goers get to vote for their favorites in the singing competition; the bed race, in which racing teams compete for best decorations as well as fastest times; and the 5K race, 2K race, 2K walk, and Little Fritter fun run. In the event of rain, the parade and fireworks will be postponed a week. “Everything else goes on regardless of the weather,� Champagne said. For more information, visit the town website at www.southington.org and click on the Apple Harvest Festival logo.

Friday through Sunday, and again Oct. 7 to 9, the following streets will be posted as No Parking on either side of the street: Merrill Avenue, Oak Street, Academy Lane,Academy Street, North Liberty Street, Vermont Avenue, Vermont Terrace, High Street, Hobart Street, Center Street, Center Place, Center Court,Columbus Avenue,Eden Avenue, Liberty Street, Mill Street (to Water Street), Berlin Avenue (from Main Street to Highwood Avenue), North Main Street (from Center Street to Mill Street), West Center Street (from Summer Street to Howard Avenue), and Woodruff Street (from Berlin Avenue to Pleasant Street).

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 3

Rob Heyl | Staff

Above, Tracy Benz, one of the judges at the 2010 event, scores the Apple Harvest Festival Hostesses. At right the Apple Harvest Festival Hostesses wait for the finals of their competition.

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4 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

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New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

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In above left photo, Stephanie LaFollette, who was selected 2010 Apple Harvest Festival Queen, stands with other contestants. Above, Kathy Stevens crowns LaFollette as she is crowned as the new Apple Harvest Queen.

MORE PARKING RESTRICTIONS Sunday (with an Oct. 9 rain date) the following streets will be posted as No Parking due to the Apple Festival Parade: Summer Street, Cowles Avenue, Elm Street, Church Street, Beecher Street, Matthews Street, Eden Place, West Main Street, Bristol Street, Knowles Avenue, Chestnut Street, South Center Street, Water Street, Main Street, Prospect Street (from West Street to Summer Street), and Speechley Avenue. Access to Cowles Avenue, Prospect Street, Summer Street, and Elm Street will be shut down Sunday at 11 a.m. due to the parade. These streets will be under the special parking restrictions from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. All violators will be subject to a $35 fine and/or towing of the vehicle, police said.

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 5

H

Rob Heyl | Staff

Kristen Swinsick, from Bristol, shops for some crafts at the 2010 event.

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Co. 3 of the Southington Fire Department crosses the finish line first in the opening heat of the 2010 bed race.

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6 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Rob Heyl | Staff

Eden Castonguay, 4, of Southington takes a break in the pie-eating contest.

Rob Heyl | Staff

The horn blows and the contestants dig in as the 2010 pie-eating contest begins. Black Cover Mates - GREAT for under your Safety Covers!!

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New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

IF YOU GO TO THE FESTIVAL

festival Saturdays and Sundays.

Oct. 7 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 8 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 9 noon to 5 p.m.

Parking, admission and all The Southington police teleentertainment are free at the phone number, (860) 378-1610, Southington Apple Harvest will give updated information Festival. regarding hours,parking and detour information for the festival. Festival hours are: Friday 5 to 9 p.m. Shuttle buses will be available Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Southington High School, 720 Sunday noon to 7 p.m. Pleasant St., to take people to the

Fireworks will be set off Saturday at 9 p.m. from the Dog Park on Mill Street. The section of Mill Street between North Main Street (Route 10) and Water Street will be blocked off starting noon Saturday, reopening at 11 p.m. The Dog Park will be closed to the public from Saturday at noon to Sunday at noon.

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 7

Evan Carnright, 3, enjoys a ride at the 2010 festival.

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Rob Heyl | Staff

8 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

THEY’RE NUMBER ONE!

If you want to deal with the best when buying or selling your home, take a look at this real estate directory, featuring the city’s top agents and agencies. Make a call today and put their skills and experience to work for you!

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Don Sciaretto Realtor

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BRISTOL/FARMINGTON PLAINVILLE Broker Associate GRI, SRS Over 30 yrs. Experience! Direct: 860-620-2129 Email: kveneziano@snet.net

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Cheryl Defosse REALTOR 860-919-8391 cell 888-817-8661 x272 calhome2@gmail.com

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New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 9

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

DINING in and around town Taste of Italy comes to Plantsville

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www.fioresplainville.com

SOU THINGTON — Hometown boy Mike Truss has found the recipe for success while serving up Italian specialties at his new venture, Napoli CafĂŠ, Deli & Catering on South Main Street in Plantsville. On any given day the deli serves up fresh breads, succulent sandwiches and wraps, and dozens of other Italian treats including fresh dipping oils and vinegars and gelato. The 30-year-old Truss grew up in Southington, graduating from Southington High School in 1998. While attending Newbury College’s School of Culinary Arts in Brookline, Mass., Truss worked in some of the finest restaurants in the Boston area. He also did a stint in California before returning home a few years ago. He purchased the long standing restaurant late last year and slowly began incorporating new offerings to go along with menu staples area residents have enjoyed for years. “I kept everything he did and added to it,â€? said Truss, who has been coming to the deli since he was a kid. “We kept all the

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VOTED BEST LATIN RESTAURANT 2011

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Lisa Backus | Staff

Above, Napoli owner Mike Truss shows off his selection of dipping oils and vinegars at his cafe.

favorites, the red sauce and meatballs are made fresh. We don’t use any frozen products. We also added paninis and all the wraps and have a full line of catering from hors d’oeuvres to gelato.� The newly refurbished establishment offers eat-in or take-out dining seven days a week. In addition to gourmet soups, salads, deli meats and cheeses, a wide variety of sandwiches, wraps, paninis, grinders, calzones and pizza, the restaurant also sells Italian specialty items such as pasta. Truss recently added a selection of dipping oils and vinegars that

patrons can refill without having to purchase a new bottle. Breads are baked fresh on the premises. Wrap and panini offerings include a Martin Rosol veal loaf wrap with peppers and cheese, Italian pulled pork, buffalo chicken and Chipotle lime shrimp. Truss is also offering a selection of specialty cooking classes Oct. 12 to Nov. 16. Napoli CafĂŠ, Deli & Catering is located at 848 South Main St. in Plantsville. For more information call (860) 628-3718 or visit the website at www.napolicatering.com.

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Now Booking Fall Cooking Classes

10 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

Gas or Woodburning Fireplaces starting at $999 Pellet Stoves starting at $1,299

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Woodburning Inserts starting at $1,599

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Wood Stoves starting at $799 Gas Log Sets starting at $599

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New Britain Herald| The Bristol Press

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 11

BERLIN FAIR

Fair time again

Rob Heyl | Staff

The view from the Ferris Wheel of last year s Berlin Fair. The weather was cooperative and the fair was packed.

Fall fun on tap for everyone By LISA BACKUS STAFF WRITER

BERLIN — Puffy sugar-coated doughnuts, bubbling macaroni and cheese, and a heaping serving of all the fall fun visitors can handle are on tap for this year’s Lions Club

IF YOU GO ... WHAT: The Lions Club Berlin Fair WHEN: Friday from 11 a.m. to Sunday at 7 p.m. WHERE: Fairgrounds on Beckley Road in Berlin, off Route 72 ADMISSION: $12 for adults and children over 12; children 11 and under free; $8 for seniors 62 and over. INFORMATION: www.ctberlinfair.com

Berlin Fair set to open Friday at 11 a.m. and ru through Sunday at 7 p.m. The annual event draws about 100,000 visitors to enjoy the agricultural competitions, midway full of rides and games, and food booths from nearly every area civic organization. This year’s fair will be a blending of the old and the new, said fair President and Lions Club member Diane Dornfried Jacobson, with headline entertainment, a grudge match go-kart race,new food booths and bull riding. “We’ve redone a lot of booths that needed to be taken care of and added a fried veggie booth,” she said. “We also have a new pavilion that we’ll use as the lower beer booth that we use other times for family picnics and events.

Tractor historian has lots of pull, Page 13

“We’ve planted all the flowers and everyone has been working really hard to have a great opening.” This is the first year the fair will be offering “extreme” bull riding in the horse rink all three days. The Southern Comfort Band takes the Concert Stage at 6 p.m. Friday. Country music star Lee Brice will perform hits from his CD “Love Like Crazy” on the Concert Stage on Saturday at 4:30 p.m., and Hotel California, “the original Eagles tribute band,” hits the Concert Stage at Rob Heyl | Staff Lenny Tubbs of the Berlin Lions Club works on a golf cart this week to get it 3 p.m. Sunday. See FALL, Page 12

ready for the fair.

12 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

BERLIN FAIR

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Fall fun on tap for all

Queasy riders

Continued from Page 11

Rob Heyl | Staff

From top, New Britain residents Danielle DeSimone, Jada Taidin and Kevin DeSimone ride the “Dream Catcher” at last year’s Berlin Fair.

We’ll be here when you need us most.

Live entertainment will also be staged throughout the weekend on the Blacktop Stage and Beer Tent Stage, including Jimmy Sturr, a well-known musician who specializes in polka tunes; a children’s circus, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy “Idlers.� The weekend also offers an array of other entertainment including the popular “racing pigs� with five shows daily and races all three days on the Lions’ “World of Wheels� oval dirt track featuring kart racing done with go-kart type race cars for kids of all ages. As part of the racing series, Mayor Adam Salina and a team of town officials will race against Lions Club members at 10 a.m. Sunday. “They’ll be racing for a cup,� said organizer Gary Bienkowski, who was instrumental in developing the track. “Depending on who wins they can either keep the cup at Town Hall for a year, or keep it here until next year’s race.�

The fair also offers a variety of agricultural activities including hundreds of rabbits, chickens, pigs, cows and goats on display and competing for ribbons, along with competitions for the best baked goods, flowers, jams and arts and crafts. Each year the youth exhibit and competition draws more than 1,000 entries from decorated pumpkins and vegetables to hand-drawn works of art. The Lions Club also has an Agricultural Museum that showcases dozens of antique tractors used at farms from around the area. Free parking at the fairgrounds and at shuttle bus locations will also be available at Corbin Russwin on Deming Road and Connecticut Light & Power on the Berlin Turnpike throughout the weekend. Regular admission for adults and children 12 and over is $12. Admission for seniors 62 and over with proper identification is $8. Children 11 and under are free.

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New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 13

BERLIN FAIR

Rob Heyl | Staff

John Alessandra, 13, of Berlin, at left, checks out a 1929 tractor as Dava Alkas, who restored the tractor, tells him about its history. In photo at right, Alkas checks on his collection of farm toys, some of which will be on display at the Berlin Fair.

He isn’t a politician, but he’s got the most pull in town

By LISA BACKUS STAFF WRITER

BERLIN — There is something about the silhouette of man riding a tractor across a far expanse of field that conjures up memories of a simpler time. For the past 50-plus years, longtime Berlin resident Dave Alkas has been that man. On any given day he can be spotted wearing his baseball-style cap as he rides across fields throughout town cutting grass and hay for anyone who needs his help. As he points to his prized possessions, including a 1929 John Deere given to him by a local farmer, he admits that his love of antique tractors has prompted him to preserve the town’s rich agricultural heritage by showcasing the machines at the annual Berlin Fair. “Berlin has never had anyone to carry on the agricultural aspect of the town,” Alkas said as he was putting the final touches on the Berlin Lions Agricultural Museum in time for the fair to open Friday. “There were a lot of farmers, the Dornfrieds, the Devivos, Rockland Dairy, Lower Lane Dairy, Johnson’s Dairy, Bradley’s Farm. There were dozens of farms.” The 68-year-old Alkas can tick off at least a dozen others and has donations from nearly every one. He joined the Lions Club 17 years ago as a way of giving back to the community. About six years ago he came up with the idea to have the club, which

Rob Heyl | Staff

Dave Alkas shows his Allis-Chalmers tractor to Diane Dornfried Jacobson, the Berlin Fair president, a self-professed farm girl. The tractor is still used to plow and cut hay in town.

sponsors the annual fair, build a barn for the museum at the fairgrounds. The results have amazed club members, the 100,000 visitors who attend the fair annually, and Alkas himself, who takes in more memorabilia each year. “When I was a kid I used to rake hay with this one,” Alkas said as he points out a 1950 John Deere. He also shows off a replica “Doodlebug,” the homemade machines fashioned from car and tractor parts that used to

pull cinder blocks during the fair. The machine that pulled the most weight the farthest won the competition. The club now holds truck pulls instead. He also has a 1929 Caterpillar used in the orchards. Fair President Diane Dornfried Jacobson climbs aboard an orange Allis-Chalmers tractor that was found at the old Waluk’s garage that acted as the distributor for parts for the brand in the area. “I was a farm girl,” she admits. The tractor is still used today to plow and cut hay in town,

Alkas said. “Dave is one of our hardestworking Lions,” Dornfried Jacobson said. “He’s assembled a good team. They do a really good job here every year.” Tractors of all sizes line the walls of the building. By Friday morning the floor will be filled with his collection and equipment brought in from local farmers who wanted to add to the display. This year they’ll showcase a 1950 Ferndale Dairy truck restored by Jeremy Hall. The walls are lined with all

manner of antique farm tools also donated by area farmers and residents. Alkas pulls back a cover to reveal several glass cases filled with miniature and toy tractors — his collection, one of the largest in the area, is also on display in the building. He started his love affair with the big machines when he was 11 and went to work at Maple Shade Farm with the Munson brothers. “I kind of picked up on it,” he explained. “I got my first tractor from the Munson brothers. It’s now part of the collection.” At 21 Alkas started working at H.O. Penn Machinery Company in Newington as a field mechanic. He stayed there 40 years, retiring seven years ago. Alkas is also known as a local race car driver who frequented Plainville Stadium during its heyday in the 1960s and 1970s. Most days he can often be found mowing grass or cutting hay throughout town or tinkering in his garage with just about any type of motorized vehicle from lawnmowers to automobiles. Each December he lines an antique tractor with Christmas lights and sets the display out on his front lawn. “When you spend eight hours on a tractor getting the work done you feel really satisfied,” he said. “When I get off a tractor after working all day, I give the machine a pat and say you did a good job. Of course if anyone sees you doing that, they’d think you’re crazy, but it really is a satisfying feeling.”

Weekend September 29, 2011

Kids take part in a hayride at Roberts Orchards at 125 Hill St., Bristol. The Boys and Girls Club and the Family Center of Bristol will host Family Farms Day Saturday at Roberts Orchards. The events will feature hayrides, face-painting, pumpkin decorating and more. Admission is free.

Nothing corny about Family Farms Day

Hayrides, face-painting, a Blackhawk Helicopter and more await visitors to Roberts Orchards By SCOTT WHIPPLE STAFF WRITER

BRISTOL — From an Army helicopter to rotten, smelly sneakers, this Saturday’s Family Farms Day has something for just about everyone. The Boys and Girls Club and Family Center of Bristol will host Family Farms Day at Roberts Orchards, 125 Hill St., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.The rain date is Sunday. Minor’s Farm on upper Hill Street will be open for visitors

the entire weekend. Activities at Roberts Orchards include afternoon hayrides, pumpkin decorating and face painting. The cast of the upcoming Bristol Theater Arts production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”will mingle with visitors. Various activities will be sponsored by community groups such as the Bristol Auto Club, Bristol Fire Department, Bristol Old Tyme Fiddlers, Bristol Public Library, Forestville Association and others. An Army Blackhawk helicopter will

land on the Roberts Orchard field on Matthews Street and become a stationary exhibit for visitors. The 10th annual Odor-Eaters Rotten Sneaker Contest will be held at 2 p.m. Children, ages 5 to 15, are encouraged to enter the contest where a team of judges awards the most ragged, smelliest pair of sneakers they can find. The winner of this regional contest receives Odor-Eaters products, $200 and the Golden Sneaker Award. Contestants have until Saturday at 1:45 p.m. at Roberts Orchard to register. The orchard store will sell pumpkins, homemade breads, pies, and its famous apple cider doughnuts.

The Imagine Nation Museum Torch Club will hawk hotdogs, potato chips and soda. The Bristol Police Explorers will help visitors park. At Minor’s Farm,families can pick pumpkins and participate in various activities. The Boys and Girls Club and Family Center of Bristol will partner with the 99 Restaurant to offer a menu of family favorites. The Minor’s Farm store will be open all weekend. Admission is free to Family Farms Day.For more information,including directions, call the Imagine Nation Museum, an organizer of the event, at (860) 314-1400 or visit www. imaginemuseum.org.

Get out to the clubs

Got an event you want listed? E-mail calendar@ centralctcommunications.com with the following information: Event title; date and time; address; ticket price (if free, please say so); and a phone number and/or Web address people can consult for more information. BRISTOL: Karaoke every Wednesday night with Chris Turk from 1800, 9 p.m. tonight, Gateway Cafe, 211 Riverside Ave. (860) 5164601. BRISTOL: Karaoke at 9 p.m. every Sunday with DJ Chris and JT at Downtown Cafe, 118 Main St., (860) 5826853. BRISTOL: Karaoke, hosted by Dom from Golden Star Entertainment, every Sunday, 8 p.m., Legends Sports Bar, 192 Pine St., Bristol. No cover charge. (860) 584-8928. legendsportsbar.net. PLAINVILLE: Karaoke at 9 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday with DJ Chris and JT at Firehouse Grille, 54 W. Main St., 860-747-2277, firehouse-grille.com. BRISTOL: Karaoke, hosted by Dom from Golden Star Entertainment, (no cover charge), every Friday, 10 p.m., Milestone Restaurant, 369 N. Main St., (860) 845-8187. CROMWELL: Karaoke, hosted by Dom from Golden Star Entertainment, every Wednesday, 8 p.m., Billy Tee s Restaurant, 150 Sebethe Drive, Cromwell. (860) 632-1333. WOLCOTT: Every Thursday, mixed music open dancing with DJ Walt, free pool, 6:15 p.m. to midnight; Every Friday and Saturday, mixed music open dancing from 6:15 p.m. to 2 a.m. Illusions Dance Club, 1639 Wolcott Road (Route 69). For more information call Linda Chadbourne after 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday at (203) 879-4785. EAST HARTFORD: Karaoke at 9 p.m. every Saturday (no cover) with DJ Chris and Josh at Gilo s Cafe, 389 Main St., (860) 568-4771. WEST HARTFORD: Karaoke, hosted by Dom from Golden Star Entertainment, (no cover charge), every Saturday, 10 p.m., Sakura Garden Restaurant, 345 N. Main St. (860) 231-8889. See GET OUT, Page 15

New Britain Herald| The Bristol Press

Get out to the clubs

Continued from Page 14

THURSDAY, SEPT. 29 BERLIN: Open mic at 7 p.m. tonight, Pine Loft & Pizzaria, 1474 Berlin Turnpike, (860) 828-9797, pineloft.com. BRISTOL: Acoustic open mic, 9 p.m. tonight, Downtown Cafe, 118 Main St. (860) 582-6853. PLAINVILLE: Trivia College Night, 9 p.m. tonight, Zen Bar, 317 Farmington Ave. (860) 747-8886. FRIDAY, SEPT. 30 WOLCOTT: 1800 Band, 9 p.m. tonight, Illusions Dance Club, 1639 Wolcott Road (Route 69). (203) 879-4785. BRISTOL: Live music, 6:30 p.m. tonight, LegendÂ’s Sports Bar, 192 Pine St. (860) 584-8928. PLAINVILLE: Karaoke, 9 p.m. tonight, Zen Bar, 317 Farmington Ave. (860) 747-8886. SATURDAY, OCT. 1 BERLIN: Karaoke at 8 p.m. tonight, Pine Loft & Pizzaria, 1474 Berlin Turnpike, (860) 828-9797, pineloft.com. SOUTHINGTON: Kenn Morr Band, 8 p.m. tonight, Jitters Coffeehouse, 1273 Queen St. (860) 747-1100. PLAINVILLE: Southwind, 9 p.m. tonight, Zen Bar, 317 Farmington Ave. (860) 747-8886. BRISTOL: Dance to the music of DJ Mr. Tibbs, tonight, LegendÂ’s Sports Bar, 192 Pine St. (860) 584-8928. WOLCOTT: DJ Walt Dance Party and Mechanical Bull, 9 p.m. tonight, Illusions Dance Club, 1639 Wolcott Road (Route 69). (203) 879-4785. MONDAY, OCT. 2 PLAINVILLE: Karaoke hosted by Chris Malone, 9 p.m. tonight, Zen Bar, 317 Farmington Ave., (860) 747-8886. BERLIN: Karaoke at 7 p.m. tonight, Pine Loft & Pizzaria, 1474 Berlin Turnpike, (860) 828-9797, pineloft.com. TUESDAY, OCT. 3 PLAINVILLE: Open Mic with host Dan Czlapinski, 9 p.m. tonight, Blue Plate CafĂŠ, 180 Woodford Ave., Plainville, (860) 747-4860. BRISTOL: Karaoke, 8 p.m. tonight, Downtown Cafe, 118 Main St. (860) 582-6853.

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 15

Time flies when you’re tasting wine and beer

American Clock & Watch Museum to hold 3rd annual wine and micro-brew tasting By SCOTT WHIPPLE STAFF WRITER

BRISTOL — Sample 30 wines from around the world or 10 Oktoberfest beers that are new to an annual event being held this weekend. The American Clock & Watch Museum invites everyone to its third annual wine and micro-brew tasting on Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. Highlights of the event are a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and exhibition viewing. Auction prizes include tickets to area museums, gift baskets, a private tour of the Hill-Stead and clock museums. One lucky bidder can obtain a private, two-hour rental to be held in the famous grandfather clock gallery. Tickets are $25 and can be obtained at the museum by calling (860) 583-6070 or by visiting 100 Maple St. in Bristol. Proceeds from the event will benefit the museum’s on- and off-site programming and exhibit development. A silent auction of antique clocks and tickets to area attractions will be held with proceeds going to support the ongoing care of artifacts and educational programming at the museum. Auction items include: ■Museum rental at the American Clock & Watch Museum for up to 25 people for two hours, a $300 value, starting bid $75. ■Waterbury Gingerbread Clock, circa 1906. Great condition, a $150 to $175 value, starting bid $50. Donated by Jon Jacobi. ■Free clock service by Mel Brown of Bristol, a $150 to $300 value, starting bid $50. ■Forestville Clock Co. of Bristol, circa 1840s. In restored condition, the clock has an 1840’s label found in 30-hour brass movement and is

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WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4 PLAINVILLE: Karaoke hosted by Jessica Bain, 9 p.m. tonight, Zen Bar, 317 Farmington Ave., (860) 747-8886.

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believed to be one of J.C. Brown’s trade names. The clock is in fine condition with original finish; a label with slight staining, 90 percent intact; original hands and dial in very good condition; and a fine tablet with negligible voids. The movement has been restored. A $250 value, starting bid $75. Donated by Larry Chelmow. ■Golf outing at Chippanee Country Club in Bristol for four people (includes cart). $300 value, starting bid $50. ■Platinum-level tour of HillStead Museum in Farmington. A

private, two-hour tour for eight people at the former country estate of the Pope family. A $250 value, starting bid $50. ■“Discover Hartford Package,� Connecticut Science Center and Mark Twain House — two tickets to each museum, a $65 value, starting bid $15. ■Two Mohawk Mountain ski passes, Cornwall, a $108 value, starting bid $25. ■Two tickets to any Warner Stage Co.performance inTorrington,a $38 value valid for Main Stage Musicals only, opening night only. ■Heron wood carving, carved in oak by Bob Legasse of Bristol, a $350 value, starting bid $60. ■His and Hers wristwatches by

Michael’s Jewelers of Bristol, a $150 value, starting bid $30. ■Lindsay Vogue Professional Photography, Bristol, a $100 value, starting bid $25. ■Two Lake Compounce Amusement Park passes, Bristol, a $70 value, starting bid $25. ■“Discover New Britain Package,� Museum of American Art and Rock Cats baseball game. Four museum passes plus four tickets to an April or May 2012 game, a $75 value, starting bid $20. Can’t attend the wine-tasting event? You can still bid on the above items and help support the museum. To place a bid, or for more information, call (860) 583-6070 or e-mail info@clockmuseum.org.

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WEEKEND

16 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

A Shakespeare classic with a Cajun twist

‘Romeo and Juliet on the Bayou’ premieres at New Britain’s Hole in the Wall Theater By RALPH SHERMAN CORRESPONDENT

NEW BRITAIN — One of the outstanding qualities of New Britain’s Hole in the Wall Theater is the company’s willingness and ability to produce Shakespeare. Outsiders who don’t really know this town are likely to say, “Shakespeare? In downtown New Britain?” Yes, but this time you could ask, “Shakespeare in Louisiana?” The current production, “Romeo and Juliet on the Bayou,” takes the original work and puts it in a contemporary setting far from the original. The dialogue is mostly unchanged; there are some character adjustments (Friar Laurence is now Maman Laurent) and modern costumes (jeans and T-shirts),

but the author’s language remains. A strikingly painted backdrop depicts a dreamy wood with a sun shining in a black sky. Despite the challenges of supervising a huge cast and learning a lengthy book (two 90-minute acts), director Johnny Peifer makes it all

The star-crossed leads are played with youthful exuberance by John Marinelli and Rachel Cabaniol. Greg Manizza as Mercutio delivers the famous Queen Mab monologue with riveting energy, while Mary Roane skillfully moves the audience as the emotional and sometimes comical Nurse. And Mia Morton is haunting in the pivotal role of Maman Laurent. It isn’t necessary to be familiar with Romeo and Juliet to enjoy this production, despite the unusual setting. But as always with Shakespeare, viewers who know the script are likely to enjoy the performance more. Don’t be fooled by the title. This is not a lightweight rendition or a parody. It’s the real tragedy, with the enduring themes of young love, senseless hatred, and conflicting loyalties. Of course the show raises the question, why move the Capulets and Montagues 5,000 miles from Verona, Italy, to Cajun Country?

It isn’t necessary to be familiar with Romeo and Juliet to enjoy this production, despite the unusual setting. But as always with Shakespeare, viewers who know the script are likely to enjoy the performance more. work.The unfamiliar setting quickly seems natural, and the viewer is immersed in the timeless tale. Many individual talents help to demonstrate the classic nature of this masterpiece.

PLAY REVIEW

Well, the transplantation updates and freshens the wellknown play in a way that is just plain entertaining. And the change of locality confirms the versatility of both Shakespeare’s script and the Hole in the Wall company. Hole in the Wall is a small, intimate facility, which always means that if you sit in the right place, you might have one of the characters for a neighbor. With this play, however, viewers

who would be alarmed by a swordfight under their noses might want to avoid the front row. The play is set for weekend performances through Oct. 15. The theater box office can be reached at (860) 229-3049. Hole in the Wall regulars should note that after 39 years of admission by donation, the theater recently established fixed prices for tickets, although two performances will be given free of charge, to maintain the tradition of offering theater to everyone regardless of ability to pay. Details are posted on the theater’s website, www.hitw.org.

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Roy Donnelley (Ranger) discovers the bodies of Juliet (Rachel Cabaniol) and Romeo (John Marinelli) while Maman Laurent (Mia Morton) looks on. The Hole in the Wall Theater will host performances of Romeo and Juliet on the Bayou through Oct. 15.

New Britain Herald| The Bristol Press

WEEKEND

Thursday, September 29, 2011 | 17

CALENDAR LISTINGS THROUGH OCT. 22 CT Cabaret Theatre to present ‘Nunsense’ BERLIN — The Connecticut Cabaret Theatre will present “Nunsense” every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. through Oct. 22. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are now on sale and may be purchased by calling the box office at (860) 829-1248. Reservations are recommended. For more information, go to ctcabaret.com. The Connecticut Cabaret Theatre is located just off Route 9 (exit 22: Mill Street) and the Berlin Turnpike. FRIDAY, SEPT. 30 Feat(ure)s of Engineering free series of classic films NEW BRITAIN — The CCSU Alumni Assoc. will present “Feat(ure)s of Engineering,” a free series of classic films in Torp Theatre in Davidson Hall on the campus of Central Connecticut State University at 2 p.m. The fall 2011 series includes three films introduced by faculty from the CCSU School of Engineering and Technology. Friday, Sept. 30: “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House” (1948), introduced by Professor Jacob Kovel (Manufacturing and Construction Management); Friday, Oct. 21, “The Invisible Man” (1933), introduced by Professor Marty Kapper (Biomolecular Sciences); Friday, Nov. 18, “Bridge on the River Kwai” (1957), introduced by Professor Clifford Anderson (Civil Engineering). All presentations and films begin at 2 p.m. Fridays, with free pre-screening reception which starts at 1:30 p.m. Free parking is available on campus. For more information, contact Dr. Gilbert L. Gigliotti at (860) 832-2759 or gigliotti@ccsu. edu. SATURDAY, OCT. 1

German American Day Dinner Dance SOUTHINGTON — A German American Day Dinner Dance will be held from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1 at the Aqua Turf Club, Mulberry Street, Plantsville. Doors open at 7 p.m. ceremony at 7:30 p.m. and dinner and dancing at 7:45 p.m. $65 per person includes open bar and dinner. Menu choices: prime rib, baked stuffed jumbo shrimp, roasted pork loin pinwheel, Nantucket scallop casserole. Dress: Semi-formal, trachten, choral attire. For more details and reservations contact your local German-American Club or Ginny Scheller at (860) 282-0778 or Fritz Wanner at (860) 747-3243. SUNDAY, OCT. 2 NEW BRITAIN SYMPHONY — CONNECTICUT VIRTUOSI INAUGURAL CONCERT NEW BRITAIN — The Connecticut Virtuosi will present the inaugural concert of the New Britain Magnum Opus Series at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2i n Welte Hall on the campus of Central Connecticut State University in New Britain. The eclectic musical selections on the concert program include Howard Shore’s Music from “The Lord of the Rings,” Alexander Glazunov’s Violin Concerto, and Witold Lutoslawski’s “Little Suite for Symphony Orchestra.” The program concludes with Jean Sibelius’ famous Symphony No. 2. Program will be conducted by maestro Adrian Sylveen, the artistic director for the series. Soloist for Glazunov’s Violin Concerto is world-renowned violinist Brunilda Myftaraj. Admission to the concert is by suggested donation of $15, with admission for students at $5 and children free. These are suggested donations only; no patron will be turned away. Admission also entitles concert-goers to discounts

Trinity-on-Main hosting murder mystery night

NEW BRITAIN — Who says Connecticut River cruise ships have a monopoly on dinner murder mysteries? Saturday at 7 p.m. Trinityon-Main will present “Attack of the Slinky People.” This who-done-it is a fundraiser for Trinity-on-Main. The plot: New England’s most prominent detective, Chester Hadlyme, will join the audience to solve a mystery — a nonviolent, comedy event in Trinity’s restored rotunda. The cast will circulate among diners, dropping clues about the mystery. Those who go are cautioned to watch for any fights,

encounters and exchanges the cast may have; anything and everything could be a clue. The audience is encouraged to interact, to ask tough questions and help Hadlyme solve the mystery. After the mystery, the party begins. The event includes full dinner, dessert and open bar. Tickets are $50 a person; $90 a couple. American Express, Discover Card, MasterCard and Visa are accepted. For tickets or for more information, call (860) 229-2072. Trinity on Main is at 69 Main St. Parking is available on local streets or in the Chestnut Street garage.

at selected New Britain restaurants. Concert reservations are greatly appreciated. For more information, call the Virtuosi office at (860) 325CVCO (2826), or the NBSO office at (860) 826-6344. ONGOING

EVERY SUNDAY NIGHT Always On Sunday International Folk Dance WETHERSFIELD — Dance to the world’s music every Sunday, Always On Sunday International Folk Dance. No partner or experience needed.

Warm-up and beginner instruction from 7 to 8 p.m., general dancing until 10 p.m. Wear comfortable, cleansoled shoes. Temple Beth Torah, 130 Main St. Requested donation is $8 (party and workshop nights $12). Website: alwaysonsunday.us or call (860) 521-6440.

18 | Thursday, September 29, 2011

WEEKEND

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

‘Moneyball’ goes yard By CHRISTY LEMIRE ASSOCIATED PRESS

“Moneyball” — You don’t have to know about VORP to enjoy the story of how a bunch of stat geeks changed the way baseball teams assess and acquire players. Sure, it helps if you’re a fan of the sport and if you’ve read Michael Lewis’ breezy and engaging best-seller “Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game.” Sabermetrics — the process of applying statistical formulas, rather than on-field appearance and general makeup, to determine a player’s worth — wouldn’t seem like an inherently cinematic topic. But Lewis made lesser-known guys like Scott Hatteberg and Chad Bradford leap off the page. And the cajoling patter from Billy Beane, the Oakland A’s general manager who pioneered this experimental philosophy, would seem tailor-made for screenwriter Aaron Sorkin, who co-wrote the script along with fellow veteran scribe Steven Zaillian. Still, what’s most pleasing about Bennett Miller’s film doesn’t really have to

AP

Brad Pitt, left, and Jonah Hill are shown in a scene from Moneyball, in this image released by Sony Pictures.

do with baseball. As Beane, Brad Pitt is at his charismatic best — a little weary, a little weathered, but that complexity only makes him more appealing. Jonah Hill is at his best here, too, as Beane’s sidekick: the perfect foil for such a force of nature. He and Pitt bounce off each other beautifully. But what’s wrong here has nothing to do with baseball, either. “Moneyball” never feels like it’s building toward anything, even if you know how the A’s 2002 season unfolded. PG-13 for some strong language. 126 minutes. Three stars out of four.

MANSFIELD MARKETPLACE

Mansfield Marketplace at Open every Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 Mansfield Drive-In Theatre is p.m. until Thanksgiving Eastern Connecticut’s largest Flea Free Hayrides 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Market Sundays during October

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