Bridgeport Banner

Architecture: Art, Science & Energy is the focus at the Discovery Museum

Designed by John Johansen of the famous Harvard Five, The Discovery Museum building opened its doors 50 years ago as a result of a rich collaboration of regional towns, businesses, organizations, and residents. Join us as we celebrate Discovery's 50th anniversary, its exceptional architectural heritage, and the communities it serves.

 

Architecture: Art, Science & Energy

Saturday, May 26 -Saturday, September 15, 2012

 

An exhibition of architectural advances in design, energy conservation and sustainability created in partnership with participating architecture firms

 

Presented are distinct building types seen through the eyes of architects to help us understand how our built environment is created; how it can be made better, and how energy plays an important role.

School Ecologies

Svigals + Partners, Discovery Magnet School

A Green Home in Any Color

DeStefano and Chamberlain, Inc., Structural and Architectural Engineering

Skyscrapers

Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects

Mixed-Use Buildings & Planned Communities

Robert Orr & Associates

Urban Space & Articulation

Touloukian Touloukian, Inc.

The Discovery Museum Retrospective

David Barbour Architects

 

Lecture Series Sponsored by Ring's End

Saturdays, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.: June 16, 30; July 14, 28; August, 11, 25

June 16 Elizabeth DiSalvo, Trillium Architect

Foster Lyons, Coastal Point Construction

"How to Work with an Architect and Builder"

 

June 30 Joe DeRisi,Urbanminers

Fernando Pastor, Architect

"How to Incorporate Salvage into Your Project"

Connecticut River announced as the first "Blueway" in the nation

COURTESY WHITE HOUSE PRESS OFFICE

HARTFORD – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar has signed a Secretarial Order establishing a National Blueways System and announced that the 410-mile-long Connecticut River and its 7.2 million-acre watershed will be the first National Blueway— covering areas of Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Joined at Riverside Park in Hartford by U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal; U.S. Rep. John Larson;
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army Terrence “Rock” Salt; Friends of the Silvio O. Conte Refuge Chairman Patrick Comins and other members of the conservation and business communities, Secretary Salazar said that partnerships along the Connecticut River provide an example for the rest of the nation.

“The Connecticut River Watershed is a model for how communities can integrate their land and water stewardship efforts with an emphasis on ‘source-to-sea’ watershed conservation,” Salazar said. “I am pleased to recognize the Connecticut River and its watershed with the first National Blueway designation as we seek to fulfill President Obama’s vision for healthy and accessible rivers that are the lifeblood of our communities and power our economies.”

The new National Blueways System is part of the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative to establish a community-driven conservation and recreation agenda for the 21st century. The Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture both identified the Connecticut River as an important priority under America’s Great Outdoors.

“USDA’s Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service are proud to partner with the Department of the Interior, the Army Corps of Engineers and others in developing a National Blueways System as called for in the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative,” said Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. “Outdoor recreation is a powerful economic engine for rural America. By working to protect our rivers and streams on National Forests and on our private working lands, USDA is committed to promoting land stewardship and outdoor recreation.”

2nd Eco Kid Bash to be held Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Arcade Mall!

The 1st Eco Kid Bash was held in 2011 in honor of Earth Day which happens every April 22nd. This year, we decided to move this fun, educational event to May when spring will be in full swing. That way your family can enjoy other Earth Day events in April. Because, let's face it, there is never a bad time to learn how to be kinder to our planet. There will be lots to do and see. Children and families can learn about programs in our community, do activities, play games, and plant a seed to take home. Please dress young children in clothing that you won't mind if they get dirty. Some activities could get messy.

A Beautiful Garden Starts Now - Memorial Day Means Gardening for Many

By gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers

Get out the shovel and trowels – its Memorial Day weekend and that means gardening for many. Spend a bit more time getting your garden off to a good start and reap the benefits all season long.  Proper planting and post planting care means less maintenance, fewer pests and more produce and beautiful flowers in your landscape.

Start by selecting healthy plants free of insect and disease problems. There’s no need to spend money on problems. And keep in mind that bigger is not always better.  Instead look for compact plants with sturdy stems. The leaves should be deep green or the proper color for that variety. Avoid plants that show signs of stress such as spots, brown leaf edges, and holes. And when all things are equal, purchase the perennials with multiple stems. 

Keep your purchase properly watered before and after planting. Check transplants daily and twice a day when temperatures rise, watering as needed. Increase success and reduce the stress transplants often face. Apply a plant strengthener such as JAZ Spray to protect potted plants from drying out until you are able to plant. Or apply to transplants to get your plants off to a vigorous start.  These organic products are not fertilizers but rather naturally occurring molecules that work like an immunization to help new and established plants better tolerate heat, drought, insects, disease, and other challenges plants face.

Prepare the soil before planting. Though not glamorous building a good foundation for your garden will pay off this season and beyond. Dig one or two inches of compost, peat moss or other organic matter and a low nitrogen slow release fertilizer into the top 12 inches of the soil.

25-Day weather forecast unveiled

By SHARON MILES

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – AccuWeather unveiled today the most comprehensive 25-day weather forecast available on any free website. The revolutionary tool includes such detail as daily high and low temperatures, precipitation, cloud cover, and weather records. 

“The AccuWeather 25-Day Forecast is a scientific and meteorological breakthrough,” said Dr. Joel N. Myers, AccuWeather Founder and President. “It is a revolutionary, innovative tool that you can use to make your personal and business plans anywhere you live or travel. For events already scheduled, such as weddings or sporting events, it gives you the best available, most accurate, detailed advance guidance on how to plan, given the weather forecast. It is truly one-of-a-kind.”

Titanic Exhibit to open at Mystic Aquarium on April12th

NEW YORK (January 12, 2012) –Beckoning visitors to “journey to new depths of discovery,” Sea Research Foundation, operator of Mystic Aquarium in Mystic previewed its major new exhibit --Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below -- located at Mystic Aquarium’s newly renamed Ocean Exploration Center exhibit hall.

The new exhibit, opening to the public on April 12, marks the 100th anniversary of the maiden voyage and loss of the celebrated ocean liner. It is the product of a very special collaboration between famed oceanographic explorer Dr. Robert Ballard, president of Sea Research Foundation’s Institute for Exploration, who led the 1985 expedition that first located and mapped the sunkenTitanic, and Tim Delaney, the former top Walt Disney Imagineering designer. Now head of Tim J. Delaney Design, he has collaborated with Dr. Ballard on several projects over the past 30 years. The Ocean Exploration Center renovation and its inauguralTitanic – 12,450 Feet Below exhibit are sponsored by United Technologies Corporation.

Sea Research Foundation President & CEO Dr. Stephen M. Coan has called the renamed Ocean Exploration Center and centenaryTitanic exhibit “A unique and important collaboration that will give people a chance to experienceTitanic through the eyes of the person who found her, someone recognized as one of the world’s greatest explorers, and through the imagination of a world-renowned exhibit designer. We believe that the Ballard and Delaney team, with the support of one of America’s greatest companies, under the aegis of an organization dedicated to protecting our oceans through research, education and exploration, is an unbeatable formula for public enrichment and inspiration.”

Tim Delaney described the exhibit that he and his team are building as “a very different approach to theTitanic experience, one that taps directly into the excitement of exploration and discovery. OurTitanic exhibit is awe-inspiring and emotional. It is designed to capture the moment of discovery that only access to the actual discoverer’s insight and vision can deliver. Working hand-in-glove with Bob Ballard and Sea Research has enabled us to create something that both adults and children will find thrilling, immersive, interactive, experiential and memorable.Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below takes you there.”

Bringing the legendary vessel’s timeless history to life,Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below captivates minds with a glowing iceberg that is cold to the touch, a bi-level adventure area inspired byTitanic’s engine room, hands-on experiences that unfold Titanic’s lingering mysteries, and modern deep-sea technology that led toTitanic’s eventual discovery.

When Dr. Ballard became the first person in 73 years to lay eyes on the deep-sea wreck of theTitanic, his identification with the discovery was sealed forever. While mountains of historical, technical and testimonial documentation abound, Dr. Ballard has always been the indisputable constant inTitanic’s rediscovery—and the redoubling of interest in its story as the centenary date approaches. WithTitanic – 12,450 Feet Below, Dr. Ballard and Delaney offer the public a fresh view into the mystery, science and fascination ofTitanic.

“The Titanic sinking is, of course, one of the greatest dramas of the last century,” said Dr. Ballard. “Everything about her conception, construction, launch, passage, passengers, loss and legend is fascinating and mind-boggling. Our goal with this new exhibit has been to draw visitors into the wonder of discovery by exposing them to natural phenomena such as icebergs, hydrodynamics, navigation, deep-sea exploration, and to present them with challenges, options and insights for interpreting the story on their own. We follow the mantra of learning by doing, and this new exhibit is designed to do just that. I believe that the excitement of discovery is transferrable and can inspire future generations of explorers, discoverers and innovators. That’s what Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below is all about.”

Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below,opening to the public on April 12, is located at Mystic Aquarium in Mystic. Exhibit admission is included with the facility’s general admission prices and membership.

About Sea Research Foundation
Based in Mystic, Conn., Sea Research Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that operates Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and, in partnership with National Geographic Society, The JASON Project and its Immersion Learning program. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration. Sea Research receives major support from United Technologies Corp., The Coca-Cola Company and Foxwoods Resort Casino. For more information, visit searesearch.org.

March is wild at Beardsley Zoo!

March 13 & 14 (10:30 am) -- Too Tots. Interactive program about "Animal Moves" for kids 22 months to 4 years. $10/members, $15/non-members. Pre-reg at 203-394-6563.

March 17 (9 am - 4 pm) -- St. Patrick's Day. Time to shimmy your shamrock, go green, get jiggy, and groove your way to the Zoo! Kids in the Irish spirit wearing anything green today will be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. One free child admission per adult. Don't miss our educational "Green Animal" scavenger hunt while you're here!

March 21 (7-8 pm) -- Evening Lecture Series: Take a Virtual Trip to Yellowstone National Park. Come see the home where the buffalo roam -- experience the majesty of the animals and vistas of Yellowstone National Park. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments. This lecture, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by the Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.  

Tonight is Adirondack Night at the Connecticut Audubon Society Center

Adirondack Night
Connecticut Audubon Society
Center at Fairfield
2325 Burr Street, Fairfield
Thursday, February 16 6:30 - 9:30p.m.

On Thursday, February 16, for one special evening, the Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield will be transformed into an Adirondack Lodge from 6:30 - 9:30p.m.

Adirondack Night will be a wonderfully casual and fun-filled evening certain to shake off the winter blues. Guests will enjoy an evening of live string band, hors d'oeuvres, Audubon's famous chili, delectable desserts and cocktails. Staff naturalists will be on hand to give guests an up-close and personal view of several birds of prey.

Proceeds from the evening will support the Connecticut Audubon Society, its mission and its programs.

Tickets for this exciting evening are $45 per person. To purchase a ticket, or for further information, call 203-259-6305 ext. 109.

Community Garden Annual Meeting

The Greenspace Membership Body compromised of representatives from Bridgeport Community Gardens as per the By Laws of the Bridgeport Community Land Trust will hold its annual meeting in the 2nd Floor Community Room of the Burroughs-Saden Library, 925 Broad Street in Downtown Bridgeport on Saturday, February 18th at 10 am. Plans for the coming season will be discussed. Nominations will be received for the 2012 Board of Directors of the BCLT. The keynote speaker will be Chris Randall, Executive Director of the New Haven Land Trust. Free heirloom seeds will be given out and garden advice given and socializing with community gardeners and friends will take place. For further questions contact annual meeting committee chair Maria Sepulveda at 203 650 2700.

Try these Winter Eco trips with the Connecticut Audubon Society

Wed., Feb 29 8AM-5PM

LEAP YEAR CELEBRATION

Lover's Leap State Park located in New Milford provides 140 acres of historic ruins and scenic trails. The Falls Bridge built in 1895 spans Lover's Leap gorge and is the crown jewel of the park. Enjoy spending this BONUS day of the year in the crisp, clean air of winter. Leader: Bob Kuchta. Members $75/Nonmembers $85

Sat., March 10 8AM-11AM

MILFORD POINT

Milford Point in the winter supports an amazing diversity of winter ducks. From different parts of the Point you'll see ducks and other watefowl, have a chance to learn your gulls and might even spot a Snow Bunting or Harbor Seal. Leader: Nick Bonomo. Members $55/Nonmembers $65.

Wed., March 14 8AM-5PM

New England Spring Flower Show

The show in Boston covers five and half acres and touts more than 40 fully landscaped gardens on display. Enjoy design competitions, demonstrations, miniature gardens, and retail vendors with a wide selection of plants, crafts and gardening provisions. Leader: Bob Kuchta. Members $85/Nonmembers $95

MYSTIC AQUARIUM’S AFRICAN PENGUINS SPREAD THE LOVE FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Penguins mate for life and create lovely art

By ERIN MERZ

MYSTIC – As the ultimate tribute to Valentine’s Day, Mystic Aquarium African penguins have created 50 original paintings to benefit the aquarium’s penguin conservation efforts. These paintings ($169.99) are available for purchase beginning today in the Aquarium Store and at mysticaquarium.org.

Titanic Centenary Exhibit is coming to Mystic Aquarium

NEW YORK – Beckoning visitors to “journey to new depths of discovery,” Sea Research Foundation, operator of Mystic Aquarium previewed its major new exhibit --Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below -- located at Mystic Aquarium’s newly renamed Ocean Exploration Center exhibit hall.

The new exhibit, opening to the public on April 12, marks the 100th anniversary of the maiden voyage and loss of the celebrated ocean liner. It is the product of a very special collaboration between famed oceanographic explorer Dr. Robert Ballard, president of Sea Research Foundation’s Institute for Exploration, who led the 1985 expedition that first located and mapped the sunkenTitanic, and Tim Delaney, the former top Walt Disney Imagineering designer. Now head of Tim J. Delaney Design, he has collaborated with Dr. Ballard on several projects over the past 30 years. The Ocean Exploration Center renovation and its inauguralTitanic – 12,450 Feet Below exhibit are sponsored by United Technologies Corporation.

Sea Research Foundation President & CEO Dr. Stephen M. Coan has called the renamed Ocean Exploration Center and centenaryTitanic exhibit “A unique and important collaboration that will give people a chance to experienceTitanic through the eyes of the person who found her, someone recognized as one of the world’s greatest explorers, and through the imagination of a world-renowned exhibit designer. We believe that the Ballard and Delaney team, with the support of one of America’s greatest companies, under the aegis of an organization dedicated to protecting our oceans through research, education and exploration, is an unbeatable formula for public enrichment and inspiration.”

Tim Delaney described the exhibit that he and his team are building as “a very different approach to theTitanic experience, one that taps directly into the excitement of exploration and discovery. OurTitanic exhibit is awe-inspiring and emotional. It is designed to capture the moment of discovery that only access to the actual discoverer’s insight and vision can deliver. Working hand-in-glove with Bob Ballard and Sea Research has enabled us to create something that both adults and children will find thrilling, immersive, interactive, experiential and memorable.Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below takes you there.”

Bringing the legendary vessel’s timeless history to life,Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below captivates minds with a glowing iceberg that is cold to the touch, a bi-level adventure area inspired byTitanic’s engine room, hands-on experiences that unfold Titanic’s lingering mysteries, and modern deep-sea technology that led toTitanic’s eventual discovery.

When Dr. Ballard became the first person in 73 years to lay eyes on the deep-sea wreck of theTitanic, his identification with the discovery was sealed forever. While mountains of historical, technical and testimonial documentation abound, Dr. Ballard has always been the indisputable constant inTitanic’s rediscovery—and the redoubling of interest in its story as the centenary date approaches. WithTitanic – 12,450 Feet Below, Dr. Ballard and Delaney offer the public a fresh view into the mystery, science and fascination ofTitanic.

“The Titanic sinking is, of course, one of the greatest dramas of the last century,” said Dr. Ballard. “Everything about her conception, construction, launch, passage, passengers, loss and legend is fascinating and mind-boggling. Our goal with this new exhibit has been to draw visitors into the wonder of discovery by exposing them to natural phenomena such as icebergs, hydrodynamics, navigation, deep-sea exploration, and to present them with challenges, options and insights for interpreting the story on their own. We follow the mantra of learning by doing, and this new exhibit is designed to do just that. I believe that the excitement of discovery is transferrable and can inspire future generations of explorers, discoverers and innovators. That’s what Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below is all about.”

Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below,opening to the public on April 12, is located at Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Conn. Exhibit admission is included with the facility’s general admission prices and membership.

About Sea Research Foundation
Based in Mystic, Conn., Sea Research Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that operates Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and, in partnership with National Geographic Society, The JASON Project and its Immersion Learning program. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration. Sea Research receives major support from United Technologies Corp., The Coca-Cola Company and Foxwoods Resort Casino. For more information, visit searesearch.org.

Discovery Museum has Martin Luther King Day celebration set to go!

What:  Celebrate Martin Luther King Day at The Discovery Museum! 

When:  Monday, January 16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: 4450 Park Avenue, 1 mile south, Ex. 47 Merritt Parkway

             Bridgeport, 203-372-3521

Schedule of Events: 11 a.m. Dr. Geraldine Johnson, first African-American women to serve as superintendent of Bridgeport

South Gallery:    schools, will read “Fly High! The Story of Bessie Coleman” by Louise Borden and Mary Kay Kroeger.

11 a.m.-4 p.m.   Hands-On Activities; Make-and-Take Craft Tables

1 p.m./3 p.m.     Regular Planetarium Shows

Plus Video featuring re Prominent African-American Scientists and Inventors Poster Display of African-American Innovators                                           

Cost: Regular Admission       

For More Information, www.discoverymuseum.org   203-372-3521

 

                                                                                                                                                                                               

Winter programs set for Fairfield Audobon Society and Birdcraft Museum

Connecticut Audubon Society's Center at Fairfield and Birdcraft Museum have exciting schedules of winter programs for children and grown-ups. Details are below. To register call 203-259-6305 ext. 109. You can also learn more on our website: Center at Fairfield and Birdcraft Museum.

Nature Nursery: Winter Edition Begins January 4 at Birdcraft and January 9 at the Center at Fairfield Curious Minds Wanted! Willing to sing songs and dance like a snow flake? Ready to tromp in the snow looking for animal tracks? Able to wield a crayon and paintbrush with reckless abandon? If this sounds like your child .....Nature Nursery is waiting!!! For children ages 2-4 years accompanied by an actively participating adult. This seven-week program is offered at two locations: the Center at Fairfield on Mondays beginning January 9 or Birdcraft Museum on Wednesdays beginning January 4. Advance registration required. Program fee includes one child and one adult. Single program fee: $12 CAS Members; $16 Nonmembers. 7-program series fee: $77 CAS Members; $105 Nonmembers. For more information or to register call 203-259-6305 ext. 109.   Binoculars Up! Introduction to Backyard Birding with Dick Worth Adult and Family Program for children 10 and up Saturday, January 14, 10-11 am At the Center at Fairfield Look! Up in that tree! It's a ... umm ... bird. Wish you could identify that bird in the tree? Have you ever heard an unusual bird call and wondered what species was singing? Or seen a bird on the wing and tried to identify it by its flight pattern? Or did you know that the tiny yellow goldfinch is around all winter?   Join long-time birder and naturalist Richard Worth who will teach you how to identity Connecticut's winter birds by sight and sound. You'll learn how to identify a bird by its markings, its calls and its flight pattern. Backyard birding begins at the feeder, so you'll also learn who's at the feeder at this time of year, their feeding habits, and their characteristics. Worth will discuss ways to attract birds to your feeder, what bird seed to use, and where to place feeders.   The program is for adults and children ages 10 and up. Meet in the Center at Fairfield's Nature Store. Bring your binoculars, note pad and field guides. Identification books are also available in the Nature Store. This program is free but donations are appreciated. Register in advance by calling 203-259-6305 ext. 109.   Survival Snowshoes Saturday, January 21 1 - 2:30 pm At the Center at Fairfield This "how-to" class provides children with all the basics to fashion a pair of back country snowshoes. Participants will make an actual pair of decorative snowshoes constructed from white pine boughs. While the snowshoes are really for decorative purposes, the skills learned can be used to make an emergency pair of snowshoes!   Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. The fee is $5 per child/adult team for Members and $8 for Nonmembers. To register please call 203-259-6305 ext. 109.   Birdfeeder Bonanza Thursday, February 2, 9, 16 4-4:30 p.m. At the Center at Fairfield   Calling all feathered friends! This three part workshop is a birdfeeder bonanza! Each week you'll make a different birdfeeder using recyclable materials that you can find around your house or in your yard. And you'll learn what seed to put in each feeder and which birds will visit each.   Program fee is $4 per session or $10 for the series for members and $6 per session or $12 for the series for nonmembers. To register call 259-6305 ext. 109.

Dr. Shelley Phelan awarded $383K grant for Bridgeport science enrichment program

By NANCY HABETZ

FAIRFIELD - Dr. Shelley Phelan, the Elizabeth DeCamp McInerney Professor of Health Sciences and Professor of Biology at Fairfield University, has been awarded a $383,046 NIH grant that will support for the next five years the “Broadening Access to Science Education (BASE) Camp,” an annual two-week residential summer science enrichment program she designed for 24 young women from Fairfield’s neighboring city of Bridgeport, who are entering their junior and senior years in high school.

Phelan says her goal is to provide “a significant experience that will excite and inform students about the process and promise of science.” A molecular cell biologist who has been awarded grants from NIH and the Research Corporation to study peroxiredoxins in breast cancer, Phelan said she was inspired early on to help uncover what caused disease and how it could be prevented. Her hope is that the BASE Camp will inspire other young women “to pursue science and health career paths that will address public health issues.”

The BASE Camp will have three key components:

• Research Immersion Experience, a weeklong scientific research experience that will engage students in exciting faculty-led research projects assisted by current undergraduate science majors. Projects will be based on faculty research expertise, covering topics in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, neuroscience, psychology, mathematics, and engineering;

• Science and Health Careers Exploration over two days will expose students to various careers in science, technology, and healthcare, and the academic paths required to get there. It will include presentations by faculty and professionals in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) and healthcare careers, and mentorship on academic majors, courses, skill sets, and organizations that can support them in these pursuits; and

• College Admissions Counseling over two days in which students will learn about the process and requirements for admission to college and financial aid opportunities while also engaging in mock interviews and essay writing. A student/parent information session will inform parents and integrate them into the process. Mentorship and access will be provided to students after the camp through a resource website with contacts and information on organizations, programs, and career paths introduced in the camp.

The NIH grant is supporting a program that Phelan first introduced in 2007 when, with funding from The Louis Calder Foundation and The Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, she created a one-week summer program that immersed high school students from Bridgeport in hands-on research projects in the natural sciences and mathematics. In 2010, with funding from Bank of America and the Maximilian E. and Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, she modified the program into a residential camp for female students from Bridgeport public schools, to build on other university efforts to support women in science. This program was again offered this summer with renewed funding from Bank of America.

The NIH grant is particularly significant, Phelan said, because it helps to add a vital component that takes students who have been inspired by what a career in science can offer and helps them with the practical steps that can make such a career possible. She will alternate directorship of the program with Dr. Shannon Harding from the psychology department, and will engage over ten female science faculty in the project throughout the five year period.

At Fairfield, Phelan’s commitment to excellence has been recognized by her selection to hold the Elizabeth DeCamp McInerney Endowed Chair in Health Sciences since 2007. In 2010 She received the Fairfield University Faculty Recognition Award for Extraordinary Excellence in Research.

Audobon EcoTravel sponsoring a host of holiday birding and more trips

COASTAL BIRDING HOLIDAY

Wed., Dec. 7 10AM-7PM

Join us for an annual favorite and search for early winter migrants and

coastal birds along the shore’s hidden coves and inlets from Old Lyme to

Groton. After this pre-holiday adventure, your group will stop for dinner at

one of the fine eateries along the southeastern coast. Leader: Andrew

Griswold. Members $65, Nonmembers $75.

DAY OF BIRDING BLOCK ISLAND

Wed., Dec. 28 8AM-7PM

Enjoy Block Island and the birds when it is quiet and easy going. The

tourists have left the island and the birds of winter have arrived. Search for

the rare and unusual as you travel by ferry to the island. Leader: Andrew

Griswold. Fee: Members $90, Nonmembers $100 includes ferry fee.

NYBG HOLIDAY SHOW

Sat., Dec. 10 2-9PM

An Annual Favorite! See New York Botanical Garden as it has never

looked before! Wrapped in the glow of twinkling lights, model trains and

trolleys zip along, over bridges and on winding tracks past scaled replicas of

New York landmarks. Leader: Bob Kuchta. Members $85, Nonmembers $95.

HOLIDAYS AT THE MANSIONS

Wed., Dec. 14 8AM-5PM

Tour three of Newport’s, most famous mansions in all of their holiday

splendor. The Breakers, the estate of CorneliusVanderbilt II, Marble

House, modeled after the Petit Trianon at Versailles , and the elegant French

Chateau, The Elms, will all be filled with spectacular evergreens, thousands

of poinsettias, and 19th century-style ornaments.Leader: Bob Kuchta. Fee: Members $85, Nonmembers $95.

DAY OF BIRDING BLOCK ISLAND

Wed., Dec. 28 8AM-7PM

Enjoy Block Island and the birds when it is quiet and easy going. The

tourists have left the island and the birds of winter have arrived. Search for

the rare and unusual as you travel by ferry to the island. Leader: Andrew

Griswold. Fee: Members $90, Nonmembers $100 includes ferry fee.

Connecticut Audobon Society names new Winters as Vice President

By ROB SULLIVAN

The Connecticut Audubon Society, the state's oldest conservation organization, is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Holly Winters to the position of Vice President of Development, Communications and Membership.

While new to Connecticut Audubon Society, Winters has been a development professional in nonprofits for more than twenty years. Her experience spans all types and methods of fundraising, development planning and implementation, and event, program, staff, volunteer and donor management. In her new position, Ms. Winters will be provide fundraising and communications and marketing leadership while developing and implementing a strategy that attracts supporters and investors to the Society's vital, leading-edge conservation work on behalf of the state's bird populations and habitats. "The Connecticut Audubon Society has a long and eminent history of conservation, education and advocacy focused on birds," said Winters. "I am delighted to work with President, Bob Martinez and Board Chairman, Steve Oresman, to spread the word and build support for this state and national treasure."

Bob Martinez, President of Connecticut Audubon Society, feels strongly that Ms. Winters will balance the organization's executive team. "Holly is just the person we've been looking for and I have high hopes and expectations for what she will bring to the organization," commented Martinez. "Her knowledge and understanding of our mission and goals coupled with her extensive and impressive track record is well suited to our fund raising needs."

Winters received her Bachelor's degree in Sociology and 20th Century European History from Houghton College. She is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving Nonprofit Support Program. Holly resides in Glastonbury with her husband and daughter.

Connecticut Audubon Society conserves Connecticut's environment through science-based education and advocacy focused on the state's bird populations and habitats. Founded in 1898, Connecticut Audubon Society operates nature facilities in Fairfield, Milford, Glastonbury and Pomfret, an EcoTravel office in Essex and an Environmental Advocacy program in Hartford. Connecticut Audubon Society manages 19 wildlife sanctuaries around the state, preserves over 2,600 acres of open space in Connecticut and educates over 200,000 children and adults annually. Working exclusively in the state of Connecticut for over 100 years, CAS is an independent organization, not affiliated with any national or governmental group.

Connecticut Audubon Society Holds Annual Meeting at Pequot Library

Elects Officers and Directors

Honors Benchmark Award Winners

Fairfield - At its 113^th Annual Meeting held at The Pequot Library on September 15^th, where media and television personality Phil Donahue served as Keynote Speaker, the Connecticut Audubon Society elected its slate of Officers and Directors for the 2011/2012 year. Additionally, The Society honored recipients of the Dave Engelman Volunteer Benchmark Award.

Robert Martinez, President of Connecticut Audubon Society, released the list of Officers and Directors.

Officers: Stephen Oresman, Darien Chairman

Edward Rodenbach, Greenwich Vice Chairman

Ralph Wood, Glastonbury Vice Chairman/ Secretary

William Cotter, Fairfield Assistant Secretary

Joseph Mallory, Greenwich Treasurer

Directors: Michael Aurelia, Greenwich

David Blagys, Black Rock

Hadi Bozorgmanesh, Brooklyn

Christina Clayton, Old Lyme

Andrew Dasinger, South Glastonbury

Jeffrey Earls, Fairfield

Scott Isherwood, New Canaan

Peter Kunkel, Trumbull

Larry Lunden, West Hartford

Judith Richardson, Easton

John Salisbury, Islamorada, FL

Deidre Silberstein, Stamford

Thomas Sweeney, Darien

Lawrence Walsh, Stamford

DeVer Warner, Fairfield

Lorne Wilson, Laguna Beach, CA

Each year The Society honors volunteers whose contributions help advance its mission and goals statewide. The Dave Engelman Volunteer Benchmark Award was established in 1993 and is named in honor of the consummate volunteer. Having served in every office of the Board of Directors in addition to a term as interim President of the Connecticut Audubon Society, Dave set the standard very high. This year's winners were Joe Mallory from Greenwich, CT and Barbara and Ross Strickland of Fairfield.

MYSTIC AQUARIUM AFRICAN PENGUIN PASSES AWAY AT AGE 19

Yellow Red, also known as “String,” was a well-loved member of the aquarium’s award-winning penguin programming

By ERIN MERZ 

MYSTIC – It is with great sadness that Mystic Aquarium, a division of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., reports that Yellow Red, also known as “String,” a 19-year-old female African penguin, unexpectedly passed away Friday. String was hatched at Mystic Aquarium on October 4, 1991 and her cause of death is still unknown. An African penguin’s life expectancy is 18 to 20 years in the wild and they can live into their mid-30s in zoos and aquariums.

Because of her curious and calm nature, String was an outstanding contributor to Mystic Aquarium’s acclaimed hands-on, interactive programming. She was the first to participate in a penguin encounter and make a penguin painting, and helped develop the aquarium’s penguin training program that uses tactile reinforcement. String often appeared at public events and in the media, including appearances on national television.

A longtime leader in penguin research, education and conservation, Mystic Aquarium participates in the African Penguin Species Survival Plan and partners with South Africa’s SANCCOB (The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) to assist in crucial African penguin research and rescue efforts to help prevent population loss.

MYSTIC AQUARIUM AFRICAN PENGUIN PASSES AWAY AT AGE 19

Yellow Red, also known as “String,” was a well-loved member of the aquarium’s award-winning penguin programming

By ERIN MERZ

MYSTIC – It is with great sadness that Mystic Aquarium, a division of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., reports that Yellow Red, also known as “String,” a 19-year-old female African penguin, unexpectedly passed away Friday. String was hatched at Mystic Aquarium on October 4, 1991 and her cause of death is still unknown. An African penguin’s life expectancy is 18 to 20 years in the wild and they can live into their mid-30s in zoos and aquariums.

Because of her curious and calm nature, String was an outstanding contributor to Mystic Aquarium’s acclaimed hands-on, interactive programming. She was the first to participate in a penguin encounter and make a penguin painting, and helped develop the aquarium’s penguin training program that uses tactile reinforcement. String often appeared at public events and in the media, including appearances on national television.

A longtime leader in penguin research, education and conservation, Mystic Aquarium participates in the African Penguin Species Survival Plan and partners with South Africa’s SANCCOB (The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) to assist in crucial African penguin research and rescue efforts to help prevent population loss.

Mystic Aquarium's African penguins serve as ambassadors for their wild, endangered counterparts. Over the last six years, the world’s population has decreased by an alarming 60 percent. The public can contribute to the aquarium’s African penguin conservation efforts by visiting on October 8 during the aquarium’s African Penguin Awareness Day celebration and by participating in the 5^th Annual Penguin Run/Walk on October 15.