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Jazz Journeys with David Morgan (In-Person)
Tuesday, May 28
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Registration Required Below Embark on a soulful journey of enchanting melodies and smooth rhythms with David Morgan, a Redding resident and accomplished jazz pianist. During one afternoon a month through May, the Library's Mark Twain Room will be transformed into a musical haven, as David treats neighbors to "Jazz Journeys" – an immersive experience designed to demonstrate how jazz conveys soul-stirring emotions. During this free and live performance, Morgan will guide his audience through a wide selection of classic and contemporary jazz, performing scores from Thelonious Monk, Duke Ellington and Miles Davis. He'll also play compositions representing a wide variety of jazz styles. Audience interaction will be part of the program. Morgan hopes to help people gain an understanding of the music and how jazz communicates. "I want to pull back the veil of mystery surrounding jazz," said Morgan, who is also a singer, songwriter, producer and educator. Jazz Journeys Concert Dates Tuesdays at 11 am in the Library's upstairs Mark Twain Room January 30 February 27 March 26 April 16 May 28 About Our Performer David Morgan has been a professional musician, producer, musical director and educator for 30 years. He is a world-class piano player, and has performed and toured worldwide with well-known national and international artists such as actress/singer Jane Lynch, Neshama Carlebach, and his own Jazz Trio. David has also performed and recorded with Wynton Marsalis, Wes Anderson and Grammy/Emmy-nominated singer/songwriter, Peter Himmelman. David writes music for CBS Sports, Discovery, A&E, MTV, and TV shows including 'Pawn Stars', 'Little Women' and 'Catfish'. He also produces recordings for other artists in his own studio. A graduate from The University of New Orleans with a BA in Jazz Studies under the direction of Ellis Marsalis, David now focuses his attention to The Music Shed in Redding, where he shares his love of music with musicians of all ages.
Midday Recharge: A Meditation Series (Virtual)
Tuesday, May 28
12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
Registration Required Below
A changing season is a time for renewal and considering different points of view.
Join popular meditation instructor Alexa Owen virtually for this 8-week series to cultivate ease and growth. Each 30-minute session will include a short introduction to a contemplative topic, a 15-minute guided practice, and time to share reflections and ask questions at the end.
Incorporating a meditation practice into your routine has countless benefits, including decreased stress, lowered blood pressure, increased gratitude and focus, and overall improvement in mood and mindset. You’ll learn foundational practices that facilitate ease and wellbeing not only for yourself but for the loved ones with whom you share your space and energy as well. Sessions are designed to leave you feeling refreshed and ready to engage fully in the rest of your day and week.
Recommended for adults and high school students. Register once to receive reminders for the full 8-week series, or drop-in using the direct link below. Registered participants will receive an reminder and link the day of the program. Include your cell number on the registration form to receive one text reminder. CLICK HERE FOR ZOOM MEETING Password: recharge Dates: Tuesdays at noonFebruary 13
February 29
March 12
March 26
April 9
April 23
May 14
May 28
About our presenter:
Alexa Owen is a meditation faculty member at Nalanda Institute for Contemplative Science, as well as a graduate of the Contemplative Psychotherapy Program and teacher training in Compassion-Based Resilience Training (CBRT). She has delivered workshops on wellness and contemplative science at libraries, high schools, and universities; created mindfulness training content for values-driven organizations; and guided meditation through her work with the Anti-Racism Planning Group at Smith College School for Social Work, where she is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree. A certified yoga therapist and inspired student of social science, she is passionate about supporting people in fully embodying their lives through self-awareness, compassion, and flourishing in their intra- and interpersonal relationships. Alexa grew up in Redding and maintains connections to this special place through family, friends, and continued community offerings. You can learn more at her website: www.alexaowen.com
Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)
Tuesday, May 28
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Our popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room. Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem.
Family Story Time (birth-5)
Wednesday, May 29
10:30 am - 11:10 am
Registration Required It's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together. This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend. You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay to miss sessions. Questions, please email Lisa at Lisa@marktwainlibrary.org Photos & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.
Sit to Be Fit: A Chair Yoga Series with Viki (Virtual)
Thursday, May 30
12:30 pm - 1:15 pm
Please note the new start time of 12:30 pm. Registration Required Below Want to free yourself from tension and stress? Lose weight? Build strength and flexibility? Then it’s time to get moving! Move in and around the chair in this yoga fusion class. The best of both worlds, Viki combines breathing and mindfulness with functional fitness moves that will energize you for the day. Take a midday break and join us for this 8 week series designed for all levels, including beginners. You might think of Chair Yoga as slow and tedious, but this class is fun, challenging, lively, stimulating and empowering! If you have a strap, belt or towel have it handy. 8 Thursday Sessions: February 1 February 15 March 7 March 28 April 4 April 18 May 16 May 30 Register once and receive reminders before each of the 8 sessions, or drop-in using the direct zoom link below. Registered participants will receive an reminder and link the day of the program. Include your cell phone number on the registration form and you will also receive one text reminder, with link, 15-30 minutes before the program begins. CLICK HERE FOR ZOOM LINK Password: Yoga About our instructor:
Viki Boyko teaches yoga and functional movement online and in theTristate area. Classes welcome all levels, including beginner. She is 500hr yoga certified, a Franklin Method educator, Hanna Somatics educator, Movement for seniors specialist and Pelvic Floor Health Coach. To learn more about Viki visit her website www.vikiboyko.com.
History Close to Home — Mark Twain’s Connecticut Connections (In-Person)
Thursday, May 30
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Registration Required Below Join Brent Colley, Redding’s co-historian, as he leads a virtual tour through the Nutmeg State pointing out the people and places that were important to Mark Twain. While Twain called both Hartford and Redding home at different points of his life, he also left an indelible impression on many people and places nearby. Take a fictional trip with Twain to meet his Connecticut friends and contacts, many of whom were giants of the Progressive Era. With Brent as our guide, we’ll meet Helen Keller, P.T. Barnum and Architect Cass Gilbert. See the places that were important to Twain during his time in Connecticut. We’ll also hear about Colley’s proposal to develop a tour focusing on Twain and the people, places and events in Connecticut that influenced and shaped him. This is a hybrid program that will be held both in person at the Library, and also presented virtually over Zoom. If you'd like to register for the in-person program, please sign up below. To register for the virtual program, please click here. About Our Speaker
Brent Colley grew up in Redding and comes from a family that called this town home for five generations. He credits his grandfather, Harry Colley, for instilling a curiosity and a love for the town's past. Colley leads walking tours, slide shows and speaking engagements that showcase the people, places, and events that have enriched the histories and shaped the landscapes of Branchville, Georgetown, and Redding.
Brent also created and maintains the town's comprehensive online resource: historyofredding.net.
History Close to Home is an occasional series delving into the unique and fascinating history of both Redding and the Nutmeg State. Whether you’re a newcomer to Redding, or an old-timer, this series offers opportunities to learn more about our collective stories and shared past.
History Close to Home — Mark Twain’s Connecticut Connections (Virtual)
Thursday, May 30
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Registration Required Below Join Brent Colley, Redding’s co-historian, as he leads a virtual tour through the Nutmeg State pointing out the people and places that were important to Mark Twain. While Twain called both Hartford and Redding home at different points of his life, he also left an indelible impression on many people and places nearby. Take a fictional trip with Twain to meet his Connecticut friends and contacts, many of whom were giants of the Progressive Era. With Brent as our guide, we’ll meet Helen Keller, P.T. Barnum and Architect Cass Gilbert. See the places that were important to Twain during his time in Connecticut. We’ll also hear about Colley’s proposal to develop a tour focusing on Twain and the people, places and events in Connecticut that influenced and shaped him. This is a hybrid program that will be held both in person at the Library, and also presented virtually over Zoom. If you'd like to register for the virtual program, please sign up below and you will receive a Zoom link the day of the program. To register for the in-person program, please click here. About Our Speaker
Brent Colley grew up in Redding and comes from a family that called this town home for five generations. He credits his grandfather, Harry Colley, for instilling a curiosity and a love for the town's past. Colley leads walking tours, slide shows and speaking engagements that showcase the people, places, and events that have enriched the histories and shaped the landscapes of Branchville, Georgetown, and Redding.
Brent also created and maintains the town's comprehensive online resource: historyofredding.net.
History Close to Home is an occasional series delving into the unique and fascinating history of both Redding and the Nutmeg State. Whether you’re a newcomer to Redding, or an old-timer, this series offers opportunities to learn more about our collective stories and shared past.
This is a hybrid program that will be held both in person at the Library, and also presented virtually over Zoom. If you'd like to register for the in-person program, please sign up below. To register for the virtual program, please click here.
Conversations in a Brave Space: Living at the Poverty Line, A Simulation Experience. (Off Site)
Sunday, June 2
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Registration Required Below Conversation in a Brave Space Living at the Poverty Line: A Simulation Experience at Temple B'nai Chaim, 82 Portland Ave, Wilton, CT PLEASE NOTE, this event will be held OFF SITE Rebecca Wade-Rancourt, assistant professor at WCSU leads a unique, enlightening experience that helps individuals begin to understand what life is like with a shortage of money and an abundance of stress. The simulation moves people to think about the harsh realities of poverty and to talk about how communities can address the problem collectively. This experience will give you a deeper insight into the daily challenges that many of our neighbors face when they live below the poverty line. Meet Ann Aber. Like many people in poverty, Ann faces the daily struggle to keep a roof over her head and her children fed. Ann is just one person in the up to 26 families part of the Simulation. During the Simulation, you will take on the identity of someone like Ann. You will work together with your “family” to meet basic needs, find a job, and send your kids to school, all with minimal resources. In this experience you will be tasked with overcoming obstacles that are based on real life experiences of people who live on the edge of poverty. Afterwards you will have a chance to talk about your experience with others and learn from experts how this simulation aligns with real life. Our Facilitator
Rebecca Wade-Rancourt, is an assistant professor at Western Connecticut State University and a licensed clinical social worker since 2004. Rebecca specializes in working with women struggling with life transitions, family therapy and group work.
This discussion is part of the Conversations Series, created in partnership by the Redding League of Women Voters and the Mark
Twain Library. This award-winning series offers opportunities to continue and expand conversations on race, justice and democracy. Community members can exchange ideas, hear differing perspectives and talk about our ever-evolving democracy.
Kindergarten June Story Time
Monday, June 3
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Kindergartners, we'll gather together for a relaxing afternoon of books, stories and songs. The Kindergarteners will attend this program without an adult. Photos and videos from this event may be used on the Library's Website. Registration Required
MTL Youth Chess Club (Recommended for Grades 4-8) IN PERSON Program
Monday, June 3
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use. While this program is recommended for grade 5-8, older teen players are welcome too! About our facilitator: Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals. Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score! The club will meet every Monday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. except on holidays or as otherwise noted. Program contact: Sarah Zimmermann (sarah@marktwainlibrary.org), Teen and Reference Librarian
Adult Chess Club (In-person)
Monday, June 3
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Registration Recommended, See Below We invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use. As space is limited, we recommend participants register for each program that they plan to attend. About our facilitator: Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals. Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!
Midday Recharge: A Meditation Series (Virtual)
Tuesday, June 4
12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
Registration Required Below
A changing season is a time for renewal and considering different points of view.
Join popular meditation instructor Alexa Owen virtually for this 8-week series to cultivate ease and growth. Each 30-minute session will include a short introduction to a contemplative topic, a 15-minute guided practice, and time to share reflections and ask questions at the end.
Incorporating a meditation practice into your routine has countless benefits, including decreased stress, lowered blood pressure, increased gratitude and focus, and overall improvement in mood and mindset. You’ll learn foundational practices that facilitate ease and wellbeing not only for yourself but for the loved ones with whom you share your space and energy as well. Sessions are designed to leave you feeling refreshed and ready to engage fully in the rest of your day and week.
Recommended for adults and high school students. Register once to receive reminders for the full 8-week series, or drop-in using the direct link below. Registered participants will receive an reminder and link the day of the program. Include your cell number on the registration form to receive one text reminder. CLICK HERE FOR ZOOM MEETING Password: recharge Dates: Tuesdays at noonFebruary 13
February 29
March 12
March 26
April 9
April 23
May 14 -- POSTPONED TO JUNE 4
May 28
June 4
About our presenter:
Alexa Owen is a meditation faculty member at Nalanda Institute for Contemplative Science, as well as a graduate of the Contemplative Psychotherapy Program and teacher training in Compassion-Based Resilience Training (CBRT). She has delivered workshops on wellness and contemplative science at libraries, high schools, and universities; created mindfulness training content for values-driven organizations; and guided meditation through her work with the Anti-Racism Planning Group at Smith College School for Social Work, where she is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree. A certified yoga therapist and inspired student of social science, she is passionate about supporting people in fully embodying their lives through self-awareness, compassion, and flourishing in their intra- and interpersonal relationships. Alexa grew up in Redding and maintains connections to this special place through family, friends, and continued community offerings. You can learn more at her website: www.alexaowen.com
Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)
Tuesday, June 4
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Our popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room. Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem.
MTL Youth Chess Club (Recommended for Grades 4-8) IN PERSON Program
Monday, June 10
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use. While this program is recommended for grade 5-8, older teen players are welcome too! About our facilitator: Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals. Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score! The club will meet every Monday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. except on holidays or as otherwise noted. Program contact: Sarah Zimmermann (sarah@marktwainlibrary.org), Teen and Reference Librarian
MTL Writers’ Group (Virtual)
Monday, June 10
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Registration Required Below The Mark Twain Library's Writers' Group meets via Zoom on the second and fourth Monday of the month. In this session the group will be reading and discussing Write Your Novel From The Middle by James Scott Bell In addition to reading books on writing craft, the group's mission is to provide a supportive environment for those looking to share their love of writing with others. The group also serves as a potential source of accountability and feedback for ongoing writing projects. Facilitation of the group will be shared by group members. Prior to attending, it is recommended that group members obtain their own copy of Write Your Novel From The Middle by James Scott Bell Click Here to attend Zoom Meeting (For registered participants only) Password: Write
Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)
Tuesday, June 11
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Our popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room. Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem.
Part I: Celebrate the Sunny Season with Thirsty Radish (Virtual)
Tuesday, June 11
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Registration Required Below This is a three-part series celebrating the delectable delights of summer! Part I: Summer Entertaining Whether you’re hosting a summertime gathering or simply want to make a festive meal, join us for a class filled with recipes, tips, and inspiration designed for the season. We will cover crowd-pleasing savory offerings, drinks and dessert and learn to serve them in beautiful ways as we make entertaining uniquely summery. About Our Presenter: Vanessa Young is a cooking
Women and Money Roundtable: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets (Virtual)
Wednesday, June 12
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Registration Required Below The Women and Money Roundtable is a monthly financial program created to empower and educate women on financial matters that impact their families and themselves. Join Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone virtually as they lead a lively and informative discussion on how to make sense of today’s financial markets. The Women and Money Roundtable series will meet throughout the spring. Please register for each session separately. April 10 May 8 June 12 - CLICK HERE to register Registered participants will receive a Webinar link on the day of the program. Include your cell phone number on the registration form and receive one text reminder, with link before the program begins. About the Speakers: Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.
Liz Maccarone, CRPC®
Senior Financial Advisor
Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation. Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading.
This program is sponsored in partnership by the presenters and libraries in Fairfield and Westchester Counties.
Fine Wine or Sour Grapes? Let’s Talk About Aging (In-person)
Thursday, June 13
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Registration Required Below Co-sponsored by Redding's Commission on Aging "Aging is an extraordinary process whereby you become the person you always should have been," David Bowie Aging happens... so let’s talk about it! Join a new, informal discussion group as we talk, listen, learn — and figure out how to turn sour grapes into fine wine. The conversation will be facilitated by Redding residents Jean Rexford and Kathleen Brandt. The group will meet at the Library the second and fourth Thursday of the month. Potential topics will include maintaining relevancy, resiliency, dealing with ageism, acceptance and compassion. Spring Meeting Dates: March 28, April 11, April 25, May 9, May 23, June 13 and June 27. Our Facilitators Jean Rexford — Jean started the Connecticut Center for Patient Safety in 2005 to promote patient safety, improve the quality of health care and protect patient rights. Jean is a former member of the Connecticut Medical Examining Board and Redding's Commission on Aging. Kathleen Brandt — Kathleen is vice chairman of the Redding's Commission on Aging. After nearly two decades working as a registered nurse, she became an attorney in 1996, specializing in patient advocacy litigation.