TOWN MANAGER'S MESSAGE:

We are on the doorstep of the holidays as December begins. Whether you celebrate Hannukah, Christmas or Kwanza this is the month with the most festivities of the year. This is a busy month for everyone as there is much shopping to be done, many events to attend and lots of family to visit. Though you may make your way to the mall, remember to shop in Coventry this year and find those special holiday decorations or gifts at our businesses or at the many craft and art events, including the Coventry PTO Craft Show, First Congregational Church Christmas Fair, and the crafters at Christmas in the Village. Check out the antique shops for unique gifts from years gone by.

On December 8^th, Christmas in the Village will hold their 20^th celebration with musical and dancing entertainment as well as horse and wagon rides. Vendors, local businesses and community groups will provide a variety of activities and specials along Main Street. The Coventry Fire/EMS Department will present a “Torch Light” Parade (see their Facebook page for details closer to the event) and Santa will arrive for the Annual Tree Lighting at First Congregational Church. That same day at the Patriots Park Community Center, the Lions Club hosts its annual Decorated Tree Festival, Coventry Cares has wreath sales, and the Arts Guild will be having their show.

As we begin the holiday season with holiday cheer and family that’s near, we also need to remember the importance of giving to those families that are in need. Those looking to donate can contact the Town of Coventry Human Services Department to learn about giving opportunities within Coventry. Families in need can contact Mobile Foodshare at St. Mary’s Church on Wednesdays December 4^th and 18^th for assistance and/or the Human Services Department at (860) 742-5324.

Though we have recently seen a little rain, this December we are expected to have more dry conditions. This will elevate the chance of fires. In Connecticut, over 150 brush fires have occurred over the last month. Coventry had two of these brush fires, one in the northwest side of Town in late October, and one that was 2 weeks ago in the Nathan Hale Forest on the Andover Town line. I want to remind everyone that there is still a burn ban in effect. Additionally, the dry conditions are impacting the ground water levels in Connecticut. State officials have called for water conservation measures so to avoid impacting wells across the State. It is recommended that you turn off automatic outdoor irrigation, take shorter showers; and turn off the faucet when washing dishes, brushing your teeth and when shaving. Hopefully we will see more rain or snow in the winter to replenish our State’s water supply.

Around Town we have several projects underway. Miller-Richardson Park is under construction with new roads and American Disabilities Act (ADA) friendly parking and sidewalks. The project was scheduled to be completed in December, however the dry weather conditions are delaying the earthwork that is being done for the roadway. As the Asphalt plant will soon be closing for the season, the project, if not completed within the next few weeks, will likely be suspended until Spring. This project totals $590,000 in cost, including a $500,000 State grant, with the remaining amount coming from local capital funds. We will also within the next two weeks be working on improving the drainage on School Street near Main Street. This small project is funded with State grant funds and is expected to be finished by the end of the month. Our largest project, the Coventry High School heating, ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) project is well underway. Our contractor Pro-mech is progressing well with little interruption to school activities. This project is expected to be completed in late spring or early summer. It will bring the CHS HVAC system up to newly required State standards. This $12 million project is a little over 50% grant funded. Additionally, we have many road, bridge, sidewalk, and utility projects now in engineering, with some that will be ready for construction in spring and summer of 2025. To learn more about these projects you can link to https://www.coventry-ct.gov/Archive.aspx?AMID=112&Type=&ADID=.

December is a busy month. I hope to see you out around the Town this month. Perhaps I will see you out shopping, at Christmas in the Village, at Wreaths Across America, or at the Coventry Winter Farmers’ Market. Should you wish to contact me, please email JDrumm@coventry-ct.gov or call the office at 860-742-6324. Frequent updates are also posted to the Town Manager’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CoventryCTTownManager.

Sincerely,

James Drumm

Christmas Light Extravaganza
Nov. 28 - Jan. 4

COMING EVENTS:

11/28 - 1/4: Christmas Light Extravaganza, 271 Brigham Tavern Road. Sunday - Thursday 5-9 PM, Friday & Saturday 5-10 PM. Free. Park on road and walk the driveway to the house. Email for info.

Sun 12/1: Artists' Open Studio Tour (AOS), 10AM - 5PM, see link for locations. Since 1988, this free, self-guided “Quiet Corner” art adventure, has offered a unique opportunity to meet Northeastern Connecticut’s painters, sculptors, fiber artists, photographers, woodworkers, potters, glass artists, jewelers, and other fine artists. AOS gives participating artists the opportunity to connect with you and to share their passion and expertise. Some participants show in their own studios while some show in groups. Of the 61 participants, five are Coventry residents: Ian Herrick, Aline Hoffman, Jane Penfield, Barbara Timberman, and, Marjorie Vrabel. Hoffman is hosting three non-Coventry artists. When planning your tour, check the brochure for dates each artist is showing since not everyone is showing all five days. Get brochures online at www.aosct.org or pick up at the following sponsoring businesses: EyeTrade, Hale’s Barbershop, Meadowbrook Wine & Spirits, Preserved Antiques, Wicked Slice, and Woke. They are also available at libraries and businesses throughout the Quiet Corner. For more information, contact Hoffman (AOS president) through the website: Tour continues, Dec. 7, 8.

Tues 12/3-12/17: T.O.P.S. - Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 5:15-6:45 PM, Second Congregational Church, 1746 Boston Turnpike (Rt. 44). A non-profit weight loss support group. See website or call 860-944-4945 for info concerning weekly dues (determined by each chapter) and yearly membership fee set by the TOPS organization.

Weds 12/4: Mobile Foodshare, 10-10:30 AM, First Congregational Church @ St. Mary's, 1600 Main Street. An outdoor food distribution service for persons of low income. Text FOODSHARE to 85511 to receive the mobile schedule and cancellations directly on your phone. More info.

Weds 12/4: Blue Christmas Service, 6 PM, First Congregational Church, 1171 Main Street. A service to acknowledge the holiday when you may feel loss, anxiety, or poor health. Receive words of strength, courage and hope in the midst of sorrow. Info: 860-742-8487. Website.

Fri 12/6 & 12/20: BINGO Night, first and third Fridays of the month, doors open at 5 PM, BINGO starts at 6 PM. First Congregational Church, 1171 Main Street. Presented by the American Legion Post 52. 50¢ entry fee, must be 18 or older to play. Raffles, prizes and refreshments available. Email for info.

Fri 12/6: Quiet Corner Contra Dance, 7:30-10:30 PM, Patriots Park Lodge, 172 Lake Street. Introductory lesson at 7:15. Adults $13, Students $6. Partner not necessary. Live music and caller. all dances taught. Bring water, wear soft-soled shoes, and dress in layers. For more information contact Dennis: knowdj@frontier.com. or see website.

Sat 12/7: Stuff-a-Cruiser, Stuff-a-Truck, Stuff-an-Ambulance, 9 AM - 1 PM, Coventry Fire Department Station 218, 3427 Main Street. Accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys or gifts for children, which will be donated to the Coventry Human Services Department for distribution to children in Coventry. Department Facebook page.

Sat 12/7: 48th Annual Coventry PTO Craft Fair, 9 AM - 2 PM, Coventry High School gym, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Come grab a cup of coffee, a tasty baked good, and shop the vendor tables while your children take part in a craft class. 50+ crafters, bake sale, luncheon, Take-a-Chance Table, craft classes. All goods sold are handcrafted. Admission: $3 adults, or 2 for $5. Children & students free. Adult admission is free with a confirmation of registration in one of the craft classes. This event is sponsored by the PTOs of Coventry Public Schools. Email for more information.

Sat 12/7: Church Fair, 9 AM - 2 PM, First Congregational Church, 1171 Main Street. Also 12/8 from 12-4 PM during Christmas in the Village. Raffles, lunch room, bake sale, Attic Treasures and vendors. Free admission. Call: 860-742-8487 or email for more information.

Sun 12/8: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Celebrating its 10th year, the CWFM offers everything from locally-grown produce, hand-crafted soaps, and freshly-baked bread. Check out their website for more information.

Sun 12/8: Coventry's Christmas in the Village, 12-4 PM, Main Street and Patriots Park. Welcome the holiday season in historic Coventry Village as this event celebrates its 20th year. Vendors, businesses and community groups will offer a variety of activities and specials throughout the afternoon. The Lions Club hosts its annual Decorated Tree Festival and Santa rides down Main Street, stopping at Coventry Arts & Antiques where families can take photos with him. Later, Santa is part of the Torchlight Parade which precedes the tree lighting at First Congregational Church. Horse and wagon rides, Coventry Cares wreath sales at the Community Center, Arts Guild member show, refreshments, music and more. Check the Lions Club Facebook page for more details.

Tues 12/10: 50% Off games, puzzles, toys, CDs and DVDs, 9 -11 AM, Noah's Closet, 1746 Boston Turnpike. Also Saturday 12/14, 9 AM - 1 PM. Noah's Closet is a children's second-hand resale shop, offering clothing, toys, books games, puzzles, DVDs, CDs and furniture. Donations of clean gently-used items for children are welcome on Tuesday & Saturday mornings. Call 860-742-1616 for details. Website.

Sat 12/14: Drive-thru/take-out Dinner, Second Congregational Church of Coventry, 1746 Boston Turnpike. Meatloaf, potato, carrots, cornbread, and dessert. $15. Place orders by calling 860-742-1616 or email and indicate pick up time of 5 or 5:30 PM. Correct amount of cash or check is required. Drive down from church parking lot to the Community House located across from Highland Park.

Sun 12/15: Free concert featuring pianist Jason J. Castonguay, 2 PM, Second Congregational Church Sanctuary, 1746 Boston Turnpike, Blind at birth, Jason began studying classical piano at the age of 4. A gifted musician, he also plays the harp and sings. The church is wheelchair accessible and open to everyone. More info: 860-742-1616, website.

Sun 12/15: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Celebrating its 10th year, the CWFM offers everything from locally-grown produce, hand-crafted soaps, and freshly-baked bread. Check out their website for more information.

Weds 12/18: Mobile Foodshare, 10-10:30 AM, First Congregational Church @ St. Mary's, 1600 Main Street. An outdoor food distribution service for persons of low income. Text FOODSHARE to 85511 to receive the mobile schedule and cancellations directly on your phone. More info.

Sun 12/22: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Celebrating its 10th year, the CWFM offers everything from locally-grown produce, hand-crafted soaps, and freshly-baked bread. Check out their website for more information.

Tues 12/24: Christmas Eve Candle Light Service, 9 PM, First Congregational Church, 1171 Main Street. All are welcome. Info: 860-742-8487. Website.

Sun 12/29: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Celebrating its 10th year, the CWFM offers everything from locally-grown produce, hand-crafted soaps, and freshly-baked bread. Check out their website for more information.

COVENTRY PARKS & RECREATION:

Holiday Letters: Hey kids, let Santa know just how good you have been this year! From now until Monday December 16th, we will be accepting your letters for delivery just in time for the "Big Day." Or mail your letters to: Santa Claus, c/o Coventry Recreation, 1712 Main Street, Coventry, CT 06238. Be sure to include your name and return address so Santa can write you back!

A Tour of Holiday Lights - Registration open NOW! ‘Tis the season for magic and a time for fun! We are making this holiday extra special for our communities with this lighting contest. Love to decorate for the holidays? Love a little competition? If you answered yes, then be sure to register your home in this FREE event for a chance to win a prize! All you need to do is register your home by Friday, 11/29. Then decorate the outside of your home and yard (front of home and yard only) by end of day Friday, 12/6. Judging will take place 12/9 - 12/15. Maps of participating locations will be available online the week of 12/2. Winners will be announced on Wednesday 12/18!

December Vacation Camp. 12/23, 12/26, 12/27, 12/30, 8 AM - 5 PM, Patriots Park Community Center, 120 Lake Street. Designed for kids in grades K-5, this program is chock-full of fun indoor and outdoor activities including nature walks, group games arts and crafts, and sledding (weather permitting). Please bring warm outdoor clothes, boots, extra socks, a bagged lunch and a water bottle each day. $60 residents/$70 non-residents.

Details and registration

December 15th
2 PM

BOOTH & DIMOCK MEMORIAL LIBRARY:

The Booth & Dimock Memorial Library is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10:00-8:00, Friday from 10:00-6:00, and Saturday from 10:00-3:00. The library will be closed on December 24 and December 25, and will close early at 3pm on December 31. The Library offers an extensive collection of reading materials, one-on-one technology assistance, printing, copying, and faxing services, public computers and free wi-fi, reference assistance, and more!

Throughout December, the library will have multiple events to help celebrate the holidays. Get some holiday shopping done at our Youth Book Sale, which runs from December 4 through December 8 during library open hours. Do some crafts, listen to festive music, and enjoy some hot cider during Christmas in the Village on December 8 from 12:00 – 4:00. Or, join us on December 14 at 11:00 with special guests from the Thread City Classical Dance for a Nutcracker Story Time! Along with the story, students of Thread City will teach children some basic ballet moves!

For the most up to date information on all of the wonderful programs offered at the Library, please visit www.coventrypl.org/events or www.facebook.com/BDLibrary.

Adult Programs

Mystery Book Club – December 6 at 1:30 – Each month we will read and discuss a mystery book from the Time Magazine’s list of “The 100 Best Mystery and Thriller Books of All Time.” December’s book is Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia. Copies of the book are available to check out at the library.

Sunday Matinee Movies – December 15 at 2:00 – A monthly cinematic event intended to remind participants of the communal experience of watching movies, and introduce the audience to exciting films they may never have seen before! For a list of titles, please visit the library’s website.

Wednesday Night Book Club – December 18 at 6:30 – Group members will be selection titles for their 2025 meetings. This book club meets at 6:30 on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Copies of the book are available to check out at the library.

Genealogy Club – December 19 at 11:30 – Calling all genealogy lovers! Join us to talk research and trade tips. No registration required. Bring research or questions you’d like to share with the group.

Tea Explorers – Members of Tea Explorers receive a new tea to try each month. Each tea comes with background information. Contact the library to register.

Spice Life – Members of Spice Life receive a new spice to try each month. Each spice comes with background information. Contact the library to register.

Teen Programs
* Note, teen programs are reserved for youth in grades 6-12, or ages 12-17.

Teen Day at the Youth Book Sale – December 3 – Teens are welcome to preview our Youth Book Sale on December 3 and take one book for free to give as a gift this holiday season.

Teen Dungeons and Dragons – December 12 at 4:00 – Continuing adventures from Candlekeep Mysteries. New players are welcome! Registration online is welcomed, but not required.

Children’s Programs

Play Group – Every Wednesday at 10:30 – Immerse your child in the enchantment of reading at our Play Group! Enjoy free-play and the chance to socialize with other kids, all while nurturing a lifelong love for books. Join us for a delightful adventure of imagination and fun!

Sing, Stomp, & Story – December 12 at 11:00 – Join us in the children’s area for a fun storytime filled with music and movement!

Sweet Dreams Storytime – December 17 at 6:30 – All ages are welcome to join Miss Rachel for a relaxing evening story.

Homeschool Hangout – December 19 at 11:00 – This free-play program is the perfect way to gather and meet other homeschooling or self-directed learning families! We’ll have crafts and toys available for children of all ages to play with.

Booth & Dimock Memorial Library
1134 Main Street
Coventry, CT 06238
860-742-7606
www.coventrypl.org
bdlibrary@coventry-ct.gov

Banner photo: Brightly-colored kayaks at Lisicke Beach on a late December day. Photo by Laura Stone.

To list your non-profit organization's event in this bulletin, contact Laura Stone by email by the 15th of the previous month.

TOWN MANAGER'S MESSAGE:

UPCOMING TOWN MEETINGS:

HOLIDAYS:

COMING EVENTS:

COVENTRY PARKS & RECREATION:

BOOTH & DIMOCK MEMORIAL LIBRARY:

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA:

2024 Revaluation project update from the assessor's office: