What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in June

Can summer be here already?  It’s our busiest time at Cheshire Library – sign up now & don’t miss out on the terrific programs we have lined up.  See our June Event Calendar for more!

Vision Board Workshop

Saturday Jun 3, 2017, 2:00  –  4:30 PM
Imagine what it would be like to visualize what you wanted to achieve and then use that visualization to make it happen.  Could it really be that simple? How often do you “wish” for things to be different? Vision Boards Help Provide Clarity — By placing your images on a board, you create a bridge between the thoughts in your mind to something tangible-a format you can see and feel. Composing a clear, vivid vision board is an important step in making your goals and dreams a reality. Certified Life Coach Fiona Bain will show us how to create our own Vision Boards. Registration is required.

Introduction to the Internet

PART 1 : Wednesday Jun 7, 2017, 2:00  –  3:00 PM

PART 2 : Wednesday Jun 14, 2017 2:00  –  3:00 PM

In Part 1, we will introduce you to the Internet and explain the basic elements of a Web page. Learn about Web browsers and how to access different web pages, identify hyperlinks and navigate web pages using the back, forward and refresh buttons. In Part 2, you will learn how to find information on the Web and how to use search engines. Learn how to mark a web site as a Favorite and how to print an entire web page, or a part of a web page using print preview option. Registration is required.

Expert Travel Tips From a Pro

Thursday Jun 8, 2017, 6:00 PM

With so many ways to book travel how do you know the best? What is the difference between booking with a traditional travel agency, an online travel agency or the supplier directly? With over 30 years of travel industry experience, Katie Relkin is the founder of JourneyBusters.com, a consumer friendly travel education company. She will share a wealth of travel tips in this program. Registration is required.

Beyond Death: Medical Facts,  Mysticism, and Meditation

Wednesday Jun 14, 2017, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

Since the 1980s when near death experiences became part of the public consciousness, they have held endless attractions for people. Why do they resonate so powerful within us? Join Dr. Matthew Raider, hear the latest medical research and discover a simple, natural way to connect with the inner light talked about by those who’ve experienced an NDE. Through a simple time-honored method of meditation, you can explore those realms of peace within you. Registration is required.

 Passport Fair

Friday Jun 16, 2017, 12:00  –  4:00 PM

Join us for your one stop shop to acquire* or renew your passport.

Please bring the following:

  • Passport Application
  • Evidence of Citizenship
  • Two Forms of ID
  • Payment (2 checks for renewals)

Please direct all questions regarding Passports to the The National Passport information line at 1-877-487-2778 or visit Travel.State.Gov. This service provided by the United States Postal Service. *Please be advised to receive your completed passport by mail can take several weeks.  Please see Travel.State.Gov for more information.

Taste the World:  Movie Matinees

Fridays in June, 12:30  –  3:00 PM

Take a tasty tour around the globe with movies associated with international snacks. Please register individually for each movie.

Cut the Cord – Life Without Cable TV

Saturday Jun 17, 2017, 2:00  –  4:00 PM

This seminar presented by James Gifford will discuss how cable customers can get rid of high-priced cable services. Learn how to switch to options that give better entertainment value and review phone service choices at much lower costs, even if you’re not a tech whiz. Registration is required.

Parent Workshop: Helping Your Child Learn

Wednesday Jun 21, 2017, 6:00  –  7:30 PM

Join us as we discuss simple, effective ways to get your child ready to use words. This workshop will utilize the best practices from You Make the Difference in Helping Your Child Learn, published by the Hanen Centre. Books will be available for checkout at the end of the program. We’ll go over ways you can incorporate the practices into playtime, reading time, and everyday activities.  Dinner and childcare will be provided. Best suited for parents/caregivers of children ages birth to 3.
  • Dinner 6:00-6:30 pm
  • Parent class 6:30-7:30 pm
  • Childcare provided
Registration required. Registration is open to all Cheshire residents starting May 15. Non-residents may register starting June 20.

Brain Fitness

Thursday Jun 22, 2017, 1:30  –  2:30 PM

Come learn how to keep your brain fit.   Studies show that those who engage in regular cognitive activities (such as attending educational seminars, discussion groups or learning a new language) had higher levels of brain functioning and lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment. The brain is a muscle like any other and benefits from regular exercise.  Light refreshments will be served. Please register early.

Solo Travel Bootcamp

Thursday Jun 22, 2017, 6:30 PM

Get ready for a solo travel adventure! More and more people are heading out on trips alone and they aren’t just singles. Whether you are an experienced solo traveler or new to solo travel, join Travel Artisan Nina Lesiga for an evening of fresh ideas on how to achieve vibrant, authentic and fun experiences. Registration is required.

STEM Coffee Hour: The Impact of DNA-Editing Technology on the Future of Science and Medicine

Thursday Jun 22, 2017, 7:00  –  8:00 PM

Facilitator: Dr. Jian Cao, Associate Research Scientist, Yale University.  Co-developer of a Gene-Editing Toolbox.

STEM Coffee Hours are designed for adults who are interested in learning more about a particular science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) topic. The general format is an informative presentation followed by group discussion. Please register HERE (password CheshireSTEM).

 Parenting Workshop: Positive Discipline

Monday Jun 26, 2017, 6:00  –  7:30 PM

This is an eight-session workshop for parents who are looking to learn how to develop relationships with their children based upon mutual respect, personal responsibility, and problem-solving skills for successful living. Come work with other parents finding practical solutions to children’s most challenging behaviors. Open to parents with children ages birth to 5 years old. Free childcare provided.

A Certifed Positive Discipline Parent Educator will conduct 8 weekly evening sessions that include:

  • Free Dinner 6:00-6:30 pm
  • Parent class 6:30-7:30 pm
  • Free children’s books

This program meets 8 times: June 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7 and 14.  You only need to register once to attend all 8 sessions.

Registration required. This program is open to Cheshire residents to register starting May 22 all others may register starting June 23 if space is available.

Traveling Lantern Theatre Company

Wednesday Jun 28, 2017, 1:00 PM

Play: The Ribbles Build a Residence. Soon after their lovely insect nuptuals Mr. and Mrs. Ribble are expecting a baby Ribblet, and they need a new home for their family! Mr. Ribble wants a to go big with a four grasshopper garage, but Mrs. Ribble convinces him to build a dream home that is more environmentally and neighborhood friendly. Best for ages 4+, No registration required.

Summer Reading Kickoff!

Friday Jun 30, 2017, 5:30 PM

Join us for our adult and children’s summer reading kickoff.  The library will be opening at 5:30 pm to host events for children, families, and adults.  At 7:00 pm the Lost Acres String Band will be performing.  Bring a picnic or purchase pizza (from Cheshire Pizza and Ale) and drinks from our Friends of the Library.  All ages welcome, no registration required.

September 7th is National Beer Lovers Day!

Many of us are in denial about the fact that Summer is coming to a close. Soon barbecues and outdoor parties will be a little cooler, and likely a little less frequent. This makes it a perfect time to celebrate a staple to many picnics (for the adults anyway) beer and other adult beverages. September 7th is National Beer Lovers Day, and a great day to explore all things beer related.

How about some history of beer, and Connecticut beer specifically:
Connecticut Beer: a History of Nutmeg State Brewing by Will Siss
The Craft Beer Revolution: How a Band of Microbrewers is Transforming the World’s Favorite Drink by Steve Hindy
A History of the World in 6 Glasses by Tom Standage
Microbrewed Adventures: a Lupulin-filled Journey to the Heart and Flavor of the World’s Great Craft Beers by Charlie Papazian
The War on Alcohol: Prohibition and the Rise of the American State by Lisa McGirr

Or maybe you want to cook with beer or try your hand at home brewing:
Beer-Can Chicken: and 74 Other Offbeat Recipes for the Grill by Steven Raichlen
The Craft Beer Cookbook: From IPAs and Bocks to Lagers and Porters, 100 Artisanal Recipes for Cooking with Beer by Jacquelyn Dodd
Mastering Homebrew: The Complete Guide to Brewing Delicious Beer by Randy Mosher
How to Brew: Ingredients, Methods, Recipes, and Equipment for Brewing Beer at Home by John J. Palmer

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What’s Happening At Cheshire Library in August

Our summer programming is at its peak in August, with lots of things going every day! Check our Event Calendar for the full lineup, here are some of the highlights:

MGL5699Nature Nick Animal Show

Wednesday Aug 3, 2016, 4:30 PM

Let Nature Nick introduce you to the true athletes of the animal world! This show will feature hopping kangaroos and lightening fast falcons! Nature Nick will also read excerpts from his new book entitled Animal Athletes. Registration Required.

maxresdefaultIntro to Kids Hip-Hop at United Rhythms Studio

Friday Aug 5, 2016, 1:00  –  2:00 PM

Join us for a special kids introduction to hip-hop workshop at United Rhythms Dance Studio! Meet us at United Rhythms at The Watch Clock Factory at 134 Elm Street in Cheshire.  Don’t miss this fun chance to try out your best dance moves! For ages 5 to 12, no registration required.

imageMovie Matinees

Tuesdays:  Aug 9, 16, 23, 30, 2016, 1:00 PM

Our movies all have a sports theme this month:

Yoga Side logoIntroduction to Hatha-Tantra Yoga

Wednesdays: Aug 10 – 31, 2016,  5:00  –  6:00 PM

In this series, participants will experience gentle stretching, basic postures (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama), and guided meditation. This slower-paced series is a good place for those looking to begin a yoga practice or to learn more about what yoga is and experience some fundamental practices and philosophy. Suitable for beginners, no prior experience with yoga is necessary. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring your own mat. Accommodations for those who may prefer to practice using a chair are possible. Space is limited – register today!

LTKk8rdGcMassage Guru

Thursday Aug 11, 2016,  6:30  –  8:00 PM
Come learn the benefits of massage with licensed massage therapist Mary Rossi. Learn how you can reduce stress and anxiety, promote deep sleep and improve circulation in the body and much more! Registration required.

8906452-Illustration-of-Children-Practicing-Ballet-Stock-Illustration-cartoonThe Cheshire Performing Arts Academy – Creative Movement

Friday Aug 12, 2016, 1:00  –  2:00 PM

Join us for a introductory ballet and creative movement class presented by The Cheshire Performing Arts Academy! Ages 3-4, no registration required.

maxresdefaultManaging Stress in a 24/7 World

Thursday Aug 18, 2016,  7:00  –  8:00 PM

Does trying to juggle work, family and self-care leave you feeling exhausted and stressed out? Join Nancy Boudreau for an informative seminar on managing stress.  During this talk you’ll learn how stress affects your body, strategies for dealing with stress (including meditation) and breath work that will help quiet your mind and calm your nervous system. Registration required.

Screen Shot 2016-07-13 at 3.39.45 PMBeginner Irish Dance Workshop

Friday Aug 19, 2016, 1:00 PM

Join us for a special Irish dance beginner workshop from The Horgan Academy of Irish Dance in Naugatuck and Cheshire.  This is a unique opportunity to take a demo class with an award winning studio! Ages 5 to 12, no registration required.

imageKid’s Summer Reading Finale @ Cheshire Pool

Wednesday Aug 24, 2016, 6:00  –  8:00 PM

Join us for our Summer Reading Finale hosted at the Cheshire Pool at Bartlem Park, 520 South Main Street in Cheshire.  Enjoy swimming and bring a picnic!!!  You will be able to purchase dessert from the Sugar Bakery Cupcake Truck.  Have a family picnic and swim during our last program for the summer. All ages welcomed! No registration required.

 51GPwCAw8TL._SL1200_To The Nines

Thursday Aug 25, 2016, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

Author and golf enthusiast Anthony Pioppi will profile notable 9-hole golf courses around the county, including Fenwick Golf Course in Old Saybrook.  In addition he will discuss the long gone 9-hole Honey Pot Country Club in Cheshire. Copies of Mr. Pioppi’s book To the Nines will be available for purchase.  Registration required.

GemGeysersAdult Summer Reading Finale: Hula Hoop Dance Fitness @ Cheshire Park

Wednesday Aug 31, 2016,  6:30  –  7:30 PM

Join  Meg Geyser for this upbeat, aerobic workout mixes low-intensity and high-intensity moves for an interval-style, calorie-burning dance fitness party with a SPIN. We will be using specially designed and easy to use adult sized hula hoops on the waist  and off the body to add an extra element of fun and fitness. At the conclusion of this program we will reveal the grand prize winner for the Health is Wealth Adult Summer Reading. Registration required.

New Cozy Mysteries For Summer Reading

cozy

The latest selection of cozy mysteries are ready for your summer reading!

murder at fontMurder at Fontainebleau (An Elizabethan Mystery) – Amanda Carmack. Sent by Queen Elizabeth to the court of Mary Queen of Scots as a spy, Kate Haywood must navigate the unfamiliar French court where glittering balls and banquets disguise poisonous ambition and murder.

 

the black cat knocksThe Black Cat Knocks On Wood (A Bad Luck Cat Mystery) – Kay Finch.
When a local business owner is found dead right after a black cat was seen in her office, mystery novelist Sabrina Tate and her cat, Hitchcock, while dealing with her Aunt Rowe who has signed up for the upcoming Texas Hill Country Senior Pro Rodeo, must rope in a killer before he strikes again.

Dead End Streetdead end street (A Museum Mystery) – Sheila Connolly.
When a member of a neighborhood rescue program is killed while showing her an abandoned row house in a rundown area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Antiquarian Society president Nell Pratt is determined to find the truth before she herself becomes history.

 

diva servesDiva Serves High Tea (A Domestic Diva Mystery) – Krista Davis.
After the new owner of the antique store is poisoned after attending a literacy fundraiser at the new tea shop, domestic diva Sophie Winston gets into hot water when she decides to investigate the crime on her own.

 

eclairElcair And Present Danger (An Emergency Dessert Squad Murder) – Laura Bradford.
When her elderly neighbor, a widower named Bart, is found dead, smothered by a pillow, bakery owner Winnie Johnson, while comforting her frightened and grieving neighbors with baked goods, decides to stir things up to catch a killer who preys on the helpless.

calamityThe Calamity Cafe (A Down South Cafe Mystery) – Gayle Leeson.
When Lou Lou, her former employer—and bully of a boss—is found dead, Amy Flowers, who was about to purchase the restaurant from Lou Lou and open the café of her dreams, must clear her name of the crime by serving up the real killer.

 

wedding belWedding Bel Blues (A Belfast McGrath Mystery) – Maggie McConnon.
When her cousin Caleigh’s last one-night stand before her wedding plunges to his death during the reception, Belfast McGrath, thinking that this was no accident, teams up with Detective Kevin Hanson, her long-ago love, to find the truth while avoiding a cold-hearted killer.

 

premonitionA Premonition of Murder (A Dream Club Mystery) – Mary Kennedy.
When Abigail Marchand, a reclusive heiress who had come to them about a dream foretelling her death, meets her demise down a flight of stairs, the Dream Club, along with Detective Sam Stiles, must catch a killer before another victim is laid to rest.

 

grace sees redGrace Sees Red (A Manor House Mystery) – Julie Hyzy – When her assistant, Frances, is accused of murdering an elderly resident of an upscale assisted-living facility, Grace Wheaton, curator and manager of Marshfield Manor, must clear her name and find the real killer before another resident checks out before their time.

 

cracked to deathCracked to Death (A Webb’s Glass Shop Mystery) – Cheryl Hollon – When a treasure hunt leads to deadly plunder, it’s up to glass shop owner Savannah Webb and her trusty investigative posse to map out the true motives of a killer.

 

somethings'Somethings’ Knot Kosher (A Quilting Mystery) – Mary Marks – Funerals can be patchy affairs for Martha Rose and her close-knit circle of friends–especially in the case of a missing body.

 

finalFinal Fondue (A Five-Ingredient Mystery) – Maya Corrigan – Val Deniston certainly has her plate full running a café, dabbling with recipes, and helping her grandfather prepare for the town’s upcoming tri-centennial celebration, but she’s grown fond of her new life in the Chesapeake Bay town of Bayport.

engagedEngaged in Death (A Wedding Planner Mystery) – Stephanie Blackmoore –
All appears peaceful in sleepy Port Quincy, Pennsylvania–but in this small town, old grudges die hard.

 

take the monkeyTake the Monkey and Run (Call of the Wilde Mystery) – Laura Morrigan – On her first “real” case, animal telepath Grace Wilde arrives in New Orleans, where she, while attempting to communicate with her client’s cat, gets distracted by a mysterious monkey who warns her that her client isn’t what she seems, forcing her to separate fact from fiction to find the truth.

read to deathRead to Death (Read ‘Em and Eat Mystery) – Terrie Farley Moran – When driver Oscar Frieland, who is known for his colorful stories and his love of their café’s fruit tartlets, is found dead in his van after taking their book club on a day trip, best friends Sassy and Bridgy must solve this puzzling crime before one of their members gets the book thrown at her.

toastingToasting Up Trouble (A Dinner Club Mystery) – Linda Wiken – When the hotshot caterer for the Italian princess party she is organizing for the 21-year-old daughter of a high-tech millionaire is murdered—and she becomes a suspect—event planner Jennifer Tanner must turn the tables on the real killer with the help of her Culinary Capers Dinner Club.

gone with the woolGone With The Wool (A Yarn Retreat Mystery) – Betty Hechtman – During the annual butterfly festival at California’s Monterey Peninsula, Casey Feldstein, while setting up a yarn retreat, baking and helping out, must unravel the clues to catch a killer when a former butterfly queen is found with a knife in her back.

dressed to kiltDressed to Kilt (A Scottish Highlands Mystery) – Hannah Reed – When her date with Leith Cameron in Scotland takes a deadly turn, resulting in the discovery of a dead woman floating in a vat of alcohol, aspiring romance author Eden Elliott steps in as a Special Constable to help solve the case, only to discover that the killer could be connected to her own Scottish heritage.

toxicA Toxic Trousseau (A Witchcraft Mystery) – Juliet Blackwell – When rival clothier Autumn Jennings, the woman whom her potbellied pig Oscar head-butted, winds up dead, Lily searches for a way to clear her name and discovers a cursed trousseau with a treacherous past among Autumn’s recently acquired inventory.

 

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in July

As we head into July’s  hot & muggy days, remember that Cheshire Library is an official “Cooling Station” – come in, get out of the heat, and enjoy some great programs while you’re here!

Please note: Cheshire Library will be CLOSED Saturday July 2 and Monday July 4 for Independence Dayjuly-4th-13-flag-happy-july-fourth-facebook-timeline-coverSummer Saturday hours (9am-1pm) are in effect starting Saturday July 9.

maxresdefaultThe Head-to-Toe Movement Show

Wednesday Jul 6, 2016, 10:00  –  11:00 AM

This movement-focused 60-minute performance is designed to engage children in physical activity using awesome music, original stories, incredible visuals, exciting games and interactive music technology to promote fitness, healthy eating, going to your library and celebrating music! For children ages 2 & up and their caregivers. Please register on our website.

k18408634Family Yoga

Friday Jul 8, 2016, 1:00  –  2:00 PM

Lani Rosen-Gallagher from Full of Joy Yoga will present a yoga class that is fun for the whole family. Kids of all ages are welcome. We will do lots of partner poses, group poses and of course relaxation. Connect with your whole family in a fun class. For all ages, no registration required.

imageStorytime at Cheshire Park

Tuesdays:  Jul 12, 19, 26,  2016, 11:30 AM  –  12:30 PM

Meet us at the Cheshire Park Pavilion this summer for a special program! Bring your lunch and we will read stories and have fun with our parachute. Look for our Cheshire Public Library banner. If it’s raining, we will see you on the next sunny Wednesday! Please use the entrance located at the intersection of Highland Ave. and Stony Hill Rd., Cheshire, CT 06410. For ages 3 & up. Drop-in, no registration required!

imageAfternoons of Awesome

Tuesdays:  Jul 12, 19, 26,  2016, 4:00  –  5:00 PM

Every Tuesday afternoon is awesome at the Library! School-age kids are invited to have fun with art, science, technology, and games. We’ll explore something new every week! For ages 7-12, please register on our website.

exps20852_PSG143429D03_05_4bCookbook Club

Wednesday Jul 13, 2016, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

It’s a new kind of book club – welcome to the CPL Cookbook Club!

  1. Check out a cookbook related to our July theme: Summer Side and Salads. (Visit our “Summer Sides & Salads” display near the catalog computers in the lobby.)
  2. Try one or more recipes at home.
  3. Come to Cookbook Club. Wednesday, July 13th at 6:30pm in the Mary Baldwin Room. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Ages 18 and up only.  By registering for this program, you acknowledge that you may choose to consume food that has not been prepared in a commercial kitchen.
  4. Share your thoughts (and dishes). Join library director Ramona Burkey and Deputy Director Deb Rutter to discuss your cookbook reviews and all things culinary. Bring your cookbook and a prepared dish (if you can) to share with the group.

75062f43caaa6f7be5b9f5e3183a70dbMove & Groove with Mr. Gym

Friday Jul 15, 2016, 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Get physically fit through music and creative movement with “Mr. Gym”, a children’s singer and songwriter from Connecticut. For ages 3 & up, no registration required.

Screen Shot 2016-06-09 at 2.27.59 PMStretching and Balance

Wednesday Jul 20, 2016, 6:00 PM
Are you concerned about falls? Learn ways to improve balance and flexibility with simple exercises you can do anywhere!!! Come to the Cheshire Public Library and attend 40 minute workout combining stretching, balance and coordination activities presented by Donna Paxton, Health & Wellness Instructor from the YMCA Cheshire Community. For adults, no registration required.

1166007.largeHow to Attract Hummingbirds, Songbirds and Butterflies to Your Garden

Thursday Jul 21, 2016, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

Join us for a presentation by Shaun Roche, Visitor Services Manager at Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge.  He will share a few simple tips to make your home into a refuge for wildlife and learn the essentials of a good habitat, food, water, shelter for hummingbirds, birds and butterflies.  Please register on our website.

Zingalingz Music and Fitness Class

Diverse group of children in a dance fitness class

Friday Jul 22, 2016, 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Circle of Friends Music of Southington is proud to present Zingalingz, a music and fitness program for children ages 5-12. Our specially designed movements and activities can help kids gain the important benefits of increased fitness and greater learning power. No registration required.

Screen Shot 2016-06-09 at 3.00.23 PMThe Healing Power of Meditation

Wednesday Jul 27, 2016, 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Matthew Raider, MD presents the latest clinical research on how meditation can improve our physical, mental and spiritual health. This evening you will have a chance to practice some simple techniques that can reduce stress, enhance relaxation and promote inner growth. For adults, no registration required.

Screen Shot 2016-06-09 at 3.05.45 PMShell Craft Class

Thursday Jul 28, 2016, 6:00  –  8:00 PM

Please Join Gail Farrar as she demonstrates how to make a seashell craft.   Each attendee may choose one object to make (Frame, Box etc.). Her shell craft hobby started as a gift idea and has grown into a thriving business in her retirement.  Class is free but space is limited. Please register online for this adults-only class.