Celebrate local author Karen Warinsky and her new poetry collection Beauty & Ashes, a heartfelt exploration of womanhood, love, loss, and the beauty in everyday moments. All events include open mics, so come listen, share, and connect with fellow creatives.

Upcoming Events:

“In these poems you will find a celebration of womanhood and self-love, a carillon, meditations on aging and mortality, gardens and lakes, marriage, a folder for death, junkmen ‘with their scrappy junkyard no-name cat / and their watchful, blank blue-eyed German Shepherd,’ and much more, which together make Warinsky’s collection well worth reading.”
— Lee Desrosiers, Editor and Publisher, The Naugatuck River Review; Wordpeace

📚 Beauty & Ashes is available at Bank Square Books (Mystic, CT), Booklovers’ Gourmet (Webster, MA), Tidepool Book Shoppe (Worcester, MA), A Great Notion (Auburn, MA), and on Amazon.

10/23 - Thompson Public Schools (785 Riverside Dr) - Thompson | 5:30-8pm
10/24 - Parish Hill (304 Parish Hill Rd) - Chaplin | 6-8:30pm
10/24 - Sterling Community School (251 Sterling Rd) - Sterling | 6-8pm
10/25 - Lion's Park (17 Community Ace) - Plainfield | 5pm
10/25 - Creation Church (47 W Thompson Rd) - Thompson | 5-7pm
10/26 - Brooklyn Schools (150 Gorman Rd) | 1-3pm
10/26 - High Pointe Church (1208 Thompson Rd) - Thompson | 3-6pm

Picking up where we left off last week, we’re diving back into the origin stories behind our local town names.

Hampton: Incorporated in 1786 from parts of Brooklyn, Canterbury, Mansfield, Pomfret, and Windham; the name honors Hampton in Middlesex (England) and the area was previously called Kennedy/Windham Village (Canada Parish).

Killingly: Incorporated in 1708; Governor Saltonstall suggested the name from his ancestral Yorkshire holdings at Killanslie/Pontefract, later standardized as “Killingly.”

Plainfield: Incorporated in 1699 as Quinebaug, then renamed Plainfield in 1700 for the level plain at the original town site.

Pomfret: Incorporated in 1713 and named for Pontefract (Pomfret) in West Yorkshire; the land was acquired in 1686 in the Mashamoquet (Mashamoquet/Mashmuket) Purchase.

Putnam: Incorporated in 1855 and named for Revolutionary War hero General Israel Putnam.

Next week I’ll wrap up the remainder of the towns in Windham County!

CT Buzz is a free, locally-powered newsletter made for the community. Your contributions keep the hives humming — more stories, more events, and more good energy all around Connecticut.

Appreciate any and all support, friends! 🐝 – Tyler

SATURDAY 10/25

Killingly | 3rd Annual Spooktacular Lights & Sights | 4-7pm - Killingly Parks & Rec is bringing back their popular Halloween event for a third year. Kicking off with trick-or-treating down Main St, followed by a Block Party at Davis Park. Live music, face painting, a bonfire, and food vendors will all be taking place during the day. The grand finale Spooktacular Halloween Light Parade will be a sight to behold. It’s a great event that’s perfect for those with young families, or those who just love Halloween.

Danielson | All About Irish Music | 4pm - Get a crash course in Irish musical traditions and history at Killingly Public Library (25 Westcott Rd).

North Grosvenordale | Poetry Open Mic | 6pm - Thompson Public Library (934 Riverside Dr) invited you to share your spookiest Halloween poem for a chance to win a gift card to Wolperdinger Bookends. Email [email protected] to sign up.

Willimantic | Arts & Drafts | 6pm $ - Learn the art of flower arranging at WilliBrew (967 Main St) with Rooted Dreams. Tix

Willimantic | Books & Brews | 6pm - If you’re a speed-reader, you still have a chance to read The Stranger in the Woods by Michael Finkel, and have a lively convo about it at WilliBrew (967 Main St).

LIVE MUSIC

⬢ The River Room - Willimantic | Spanish Open Mic | 8pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | Tyler Fauxbel | 7-10pm

Danielson | Seasonal Cards: Kids Edition | 4pm $ - Bring the youngins down to Mountain Laurel Floral Designs (98 Main St) to make a fun and spooky Halloween house card with Lee Barber. Tix

Danielson | Virtual Author Talk | 7pm - Hear an amazing story directly from the inspiring Malala Yousafzai at Killingly Public Library (25 Westcott Rd). This is for ages 18+ due to some adult themes. Register

Dayville | Candle-Making Workshop | 6pm $ - Make two soy candles with scents of your choosing at Black Pond Brews (1001 Hartford Pike). Tix

Scotland | This is Halloween | 6pm- Greg Dwyer will be at Scotland Public Library (21 Brook Rd) for an adult program about the origins of Halloween, blending history, mystery (ooh, fun rhyme), and mesmerizing moments (I wish I could take credit for that line, but that one is directly from Library Director Mary Geragotelis.

Willimantic | Tavern Night | 5pm $ - The Windham Historical Society’s (627 Main St) Tavern Night is back again, this month, they’re welcoming “R.L. Stine” to talk about his life and share his favorite food and beverage. Tix

TRIVIA

Woodstock Tavern - Woodstock | 6:30pm
Stomping Ground - Putnam | 7pm
Hank’s - Brooklyn | 6:30pm
Bear Hands Brewing - Putnam | 6pm
Mill Town Grill - Thompson | 6:30pm

Ashford | Annual Used Book Sale | 2pm - Starting today and continuing on 10/24, 25, & 26, the Friends of Babcock Library are holding a used book sale at Knowlton Memorial Hall (25 Pompey Hollow Rd). These are a great chance to pick up some new books for cheap and help out the library!

Putnam | Create Your Own Witch Hat | 6:30pm $ - Who doesn’t want their own custom witches hat? Make one that’s uniquely you at Montana Nights (169 Rt 44). Spaces are limited. Tix

Willimantic | 4th Annual Gala & Open House | 5:30-8pm - Arts at the Capitol Theater (896 Main St) is showcasing student work and live performances, and you can get a sneak peek at what this performing arts magnet school has to offer.

LIVE MUSIC

⬢ Music Lady Cafe - Central Village | Karaoke | 8:30-11:55pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | Straight Up Jazz Series | 5:30-7:30pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | The Berger Boys | 8-11pm

TRIVIA

Trolley Pub - Willimantic | 7:30pm
Midway Restaurant - Ashford | 7pm

Brooklyn | Carvers Curse Continues | 6-10pm $ - We’re getting to the end of your chance to have the *blank* scared out of you at Carvers Curse (329 Stetson Rd). Tix/more info

Danielson | Hocus Pocus | 6pm - Westfield Church (210 Main St) is continuing this nearly decade-long tradition of screening Hocus Pocus outside. Dress up, bring a nonperishable item to donate, and enjoy this silly Halloween classic.

Danielson | Zombie Prom | 4:30pm - Killingly Public Library (25 Westcott Rd) is holding a fun Zombie Prom for kids ages 13-18. Dinner will be served, come dressed up (or don’t), swing by the zombie-makeup station, or boogie down all night. Register

Hampton | Witch on Main | 5-7pm - The fortune-telling witch makes her return to the Hampton Community Center (adjacent, she’ll actually be at the pavilion next to town hall) (164 Main St) to pass out candy.

Pomfret | Nick’s Nightmare | 6:30-9:30pm $ - Tis the season to intentionally frighten yourself, and that’s exactly what’s being offered at Nick’s Nightmare (65 Hampton Rd). Tickets are $10/person, will also run on 10/25.

Putnam | RENT | 7:30pm $ - The hard-hitting Broadway hit makes its way to The Bradley Playhouse (30 Front St) for a three-night stint. You can buy tickets for the shows here.

Putnam | Steak Dinner Fundraiser | 6-7pm $ - Do you like steak? How about cats? Then head to the Knights of Columbus (68 Providence St) for a steak dinner fundraiser that benefits Paws Cat Shelter. Tickets are available at Paws Cat Shelter, K.oC., and Joseph Jewelers.

Willimantic | Halloween Dance Social | 7:30-9:30pm $ - The River Room (50 Riverside Dr) is having a pre-Halloween dance party, featuring master dance instructor Oswaldo Tirano. Complimentary refreshments, 2 ½ hour open dance floor, costume contest (winner takes home $100!), and more fun await. Tix

LIVE MUSIC

⬢ American Cafe - Plainfield | Karaoke | 9-11:55pm
⬢ Music Lady Cafe - Central Village | Karaoke | 7-11:45pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | Lexi Weege | 8-11pm

TRIVIA

Music Lady Cafe - Central Village | 7pm
Taylor Brooke - Woodstock | 6:30pm

Brooklyn | Swap Meet | 7am $ - Find that car part you’ve been searching for at The Brooklyn Fairgrounds (15 Fairgrounds Rd).

Canterbury | Haunted Trail | 6-9pm $ - It’s the last week to visit the horses and donkeys at Hay Burr Inn Equine Rescue (169 Black Hill Rd), and give yourself a little fright on their haunted trail of lights. There are no tickets to buy in advance, but do the right thing and bring a donation to help this worthwhile place continue to thrive!

Chaplin | Guided Hike | 10am-12pm - Enjoy a guided hike at Joshua’s Trust Tower Hill Preserve (Between 96 & 154 Tower Hill Rd). For more info, contact Deb Field (860) 208-5459, or [email protected]

Danielson | Caspers Little Market | 12pm - Be a part of the inaugural year of Caspers Little Market on Main (142 Main St). There’s a ton going on down Main St, so make sure to take advantage!

Danielson | Ellis Tech Craft/Vendor Fair | 10am-3pm - I mean, not much more to say than there will be a craft & vendor fair at Ellis Tech (613 Upper Maple St).

Dayville | Comedy Show | 8pm $ - Grab some laughs and a pint or two at Black Pond Brews (1001 Hartford Pike). Tix

Plainfield | Fall Fest | 1-4pm - Plainfield Rec is holding a Fall Fest, featuring games, music, vendors, free activities for kids (sponsored by local businesses and community partners), and food trucks, at Lions Park (17 Community Ave).

Plainfield | Halloween Psychic/Vendor Fair | 10am-5pm - Crystal Visions (40 Railroad Ave) will be hosting readers, healers, and vendors. Admission to the fair is free, but readings do cost money.

Putnam | Raffle Basket Bonanza | 12-5pm $ - The Knights of Columbus (68 Providence St) has over 50 raffle baskets to help benefit Paws Cat Shelter. 25 tickets for $20, or 6 for $5. Winners will be drawn at 5pm, and pickup will be from 5-7pm. IF you don’t pick it up in that time, it will go to the next person.

Putnam | Halloween Dance Party (21+) | 7-10pm $ - Movement Magic (112 Main St) is holding an evening of fun and dancing. Ballroom dancing, line dancing, EDM dance party, photo booth, costume contest and more. Tix

South Windham | Halloween Fairy Party | 9am-6pm - Ladd’s Garden Center (671 Rt 32) is holding a Halloween costume contest, light refreshments, an indoor fairy garden demo, and the return of their figurines from the CT Renn Faire.

Thompson | Halloween Party | 7-11pm - Triple Raven Brewing (27 Main St) is throwing their 2nd annual Halloween party. Come decked out in your best costume for a chance to win a prize.

Willimantic | Farmers Market | 8am-12pm - This is your last chance to grab some fresh produce and other amazing products at the Willimantic Farmers Market (28 Bridge St).

Willimantic | Halloween Dance Party | 7-10pm $ - The Willimantic Elks (198 Pleasant St) Antlers are holding a Halloween party for anyone ages 12-20. Free munchies and soft drinks, a costume contest with several categories to win from, and good wholesome fun. Tix

Willimantic | Harvest Festival | 10am-4pm - The Farmer’s Cow Calfé (86 Storrs Rd) is holding a festival of fun, with local vendors, raffles, pumpkin painting, music, fantastic food, and more. Come check out their recently renovated space!

Willimantic | The Leala Cyr Quintet | 8-10pm $ - Jazz up your Saturday evening at The River Room (50 Riverside Dr), with a performance by this fantastic group of musicians. The titular Cyr is a double threat - taking on vocals and trumpet-playing duties. Tix

Willimantic | Vendor/Craft Fair | 10am-2pm - The Willimantic Elks (198 Pleasant St) is holding a craft fair. Along with amazing selections of goods, you can also enter to win some raffle baskets.

LIVE MUSIC

⬢ Music Lady Cafe - Central Village | Red Light | 9:30pm
⬢ Killingly Grange - Dayville | Rusty Rails | 7pm
⬢ Montana Nights - Putnam | CRUSH | 7pm
⬢ Woodstock Tavern - Woodstock | Karaoke | 8-11pm
⬢ Broken Crust - Putnam | Al Raebuck | 5:30pm
⬢ Taylor Brooke - Woodstock | Sean Magwire | 2-5pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | Evan Gianfriddo Trio | 1-4pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | Simon Silvia | 8-11pm

Brooklyn | Homeopathy Fixes For Winter Sickness | 10am $ - Master Herbalist Amelia South will be at Little Dipper Farm (499 Wolf Den Rd), demonstrating natural ways to boost your immune system and deal with symptoms of seasonal illnesses. Tix

Pomfret | Opossums: Misunderstood Friends | 1pm $ - The Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue is going to be at the CT Audubon Center (56 Ring St) to talk all about these creatures of the night. You’ll even get to meet two of them! Register

Thompson | Racing Experience | 12pm $ - If you’ve had the desire to go fast, here’s your chance at Thompson Speedway (205 E Thompson Rd) with the Jeffrey Earnhardt Racing Experience. More info/tix

Windham Center | Walktober/History Talk | 1pm - Historian Bev York will be leading a program about the Revolutionary War in the Windham Center Cemetery (Windham Center Road).

LIVE MUSIC

⬢ 4G’s Restaurant - Dayville | Brian Malone | 2-5pm
⬢ Taylor Brooke - Woodstock | Joe Macey | 2-5pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | The Attractor | 1-4pm
⬢ Stomping Ground - Putnam | Open Mic | 7-11:30pm

Ashford | Pumpkin Decorating | 11am-1pm - Babcock Library (25 Pompey Hollow Rd) is holding a pumpkin decorating and storytime session for little ones. Register in advance (860) 487-4420.

Canterbury | National Cat Day/Free Admission | 10am-3pm - To celebrate National Cat Day and the last day the museum will be open for the season, the Prudence Crandall Museum (1 S Canterbury Rd) is offering free admission to the museum with a donation of unopened cat food, toys, paper towels, and garbage bags. All items will be donated to Paws Cat Shelter in Putnam. Tix

Danielson | Ghost Stories | 7pm - Join Ghost Hunter Andy Andrews for a conversation about spirits and specters at Westfield Church (210 Main St). Not suitable for kids under 10.

Putnam | Auditions | 6:30pm - The Bradley Playhouse (30 Front St) is looking for aspiring thespians for production of Rumors. More info

Willimantic | Halloween Pool Party | 6-7:30pm $ - The Windham Community Center (1 Jillson Sq) is holding a special Halloween pool party. Games, prizes, music, treats, and more. Free for members, $5 for non-members.

LIVE MUSIC

⬢ Music Lady Cafe - Central Village | Brandt Taylor | 5:30pm