The Short List

On the Homefront

Memorial Day is the day we honor all U.S. veterans who’ve died in military service, but the holiday started out as Decoration Day, a tribute to fallen soldiers of the American Civil War.

“Connecticut and the Civil War,” a lecture by author Dr. Matthew Warshauer on May 16 at the Barnum Museum in Bridgeport, sheds light on the state’s politically charged role in the war. The Central Connecticut State University history professor also gives an eye-opening account of war-weary Connecticut in his latest book, Connecticut in the American Civil War: Slavery, Sacrifice and Survival.

For further information, call 203/331-1104 or visit barnum-museum.org.

 

Garden Party

     In spring, a gardener’s fancy turns to thoughts of floral beds, lush plots and adding new finds. At Trade Secrets annual rare plant and garden antiques sale, you’ll find everything you need to create a botanical dreamscape.
     On May 18, enthusiastic gardeners converge on LionRock Farm in Sharon to indulge their passion—browsing all sorts of annual and perennial bulbs and flowers, vines, topiaries and shrubs, or maybe picking up a few treasures or two among antiques, furniture, cloches and statuary on display. The following day, four spectacular local gardens will be open for tours.
     The sale began 13 years ago when designer Bunny Williams (at left, with Martha Stewart) offered to sell plants in her back yard as a fundraiser for Women’s Support Services to benefit victims of domestic abuse. The sale (still a benefit for WSS) has flourished since, and now takes place at Williams’ friend Elaine LaRoche’s farm in Sharon—and garden lovers come from all over the world to attend.
     Martha Stewart wouldn’t miss it. She noted on a recent blog: “This event is always so special and is attended by some of the best gardeners. There are always the most amazing and unusual varieties of plants to be found.”
     For tickets and tour info, call 860/364-1080 or visit tradesecretsct.com. 

Survivor's Swing Band

     The Survivors Swing Band is proof that age is only a number. “Music makes people move, it makes people smile,” says Jules Bashkin (at left), 91, of West Haven, one of the founding members of the band. “When we play, we think of it as going to a party.”
     The seven-piece jazz group consisting almost entirely of senior citizens ranging in age from 70 to 91 is quickly becoming well-known for bringing the hot tunes and soothing ballads of the swing era to audiences around Connecticut. The group blends the traditional orchestration of big band with its own style. According to Bashkin, the “Survivors” name is an acknowledgement that some band members have passed away but also a reference to the melodies that have remained popular despite the passage of time.
     The band’s spunk is infectious, he warns—participation is strongly encouraged and audience members are encouraged to bring their dancing shoes. Since its conception at the Wallingford Senior Center two years ago, the group has performed over 150 gigs from assisted-living community centers to backyard parties.
The Survivors Swing Band performs  at The Gables in Guilford on May 27. Performances are open to the public.

     For complete schedule, visit survivorssb.com.