December 3

Holiday Open House to Benefit F.I.S.H. of Northwestern CT!

Attention Shoppers!

Not only can you fill your satchel with stunning one-of-a-kind gifts for holiday giving or find that perfect board book, puzzle, plush toy, or stocking stuffer...you can also enjoy free admission to our splendid Nature Museum throughout the day and perhaps tuck a little donation into the jar to support our local shelter, F. I. S. H. of Northwestern Connecticut!

Today the Conservation Center is raising money for the most needy. Your donation of cash, non-perishable food, and warm clothing would mean so much to so many. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Free admission to the Museum. Donations of cash, non-perishable food, and warm clothing will be collected to benefit F. I. S. H. of Northwestern Connecticut.

December 3

The Science and Indigenous Folklore of Santa and His Reindeer with Moki Kokoris

This two-hour program will feature little-known facts about the origins of Santa, the colors of his suit, his “flying” reindeer and Rudolph’s red nose. Find out why Santa comes down chimneys; learn about reindeer games, elf boots, and other amusing trivia and fun facts that are associated with many of our well-known holiday traditions. (All of Santa’s secrets are guaranteed to be kept safe) Join Arctic Explorer, Mokis Kokoris http://90-north.com/ for an intimate look into Santa’s world! Moki will conduct a wonderful craft workshop for adults and children after her presentation! Suitable for kids of all ages!

2:00 p.m., A. B. Ceder Room. FREE ADMISSION…Today the Conservation Center is raising money for our local shelter, F. I. S. H. of Northwestern Connecticut. Your donation of cash, non-perishable food, and warm clothing would mean so much to so many. 

December 3

The Snow Queen

This outstanding holiday program was featured in Diane Smith’s book, A Connecticut Christmas!  Artist and puppeteer Robin McCahill returns to the Carriage House at White Memorial for one performance of the Hans Christian Anderson tale of friends lost and found, visits to distant lands, travels through changing seasons, and encounters with strange and exotic characters. McCahill’s whimsical troupe of hand-felted marionettes tells the story. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. They will escort guests to the Mott-Van Winkle classroom in their horse drawn wagon. While Santa receives guests in the classroom, Mrs. Claus will lead a carol sing around the bonfire. An embarrassment of sweets and cups of velvety hot chocolate sweeten the day.  Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in their horse drawn wagon at 1:00 p.m. Performance: 3:00 P.M. in the Carriage House. 

Artic expert Moki Kokoris will be in the A. B. Ceder Room at 2:00 p.m. for a family friendly presentation, “The Science and Indigenous Folklore of Santa and His Reindeer” The one-hour program will feature little-known facts about the origins of Santa, the colors of his suit, his “flying” reindeer and Rudolph’s red nose. Find out why Santa comes down chimneys; learn about reindeer games, elf boots, and other amusing trivia and fun facts that are associated with many of our well-known holiday traditions. (All of Santa’s secrets are guaranteed to be kept safe) Join Arctic Explorer, Mokis Kokoris http://90-north.com/ for an intimate look into Santa’s world! Suitable for kids of all ages! Moki will then lead children through a fun craft! Seating is limited on a first come, first serve basis.

There will be a Museum Open House from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.! The Gift Shop is full of wonderful stocking stuffers and one-of-a-kind gifts!

Admission: A donation of warm socks, mittens, gloves, or hats of any size or color and a non-perishable food item for the pantry at FISH, Torrington CT. You must call and make a reservation: 860-567-0857 or register online: www.whitememorialcc.org  This beautiful program is made possible in its entirety by an anonymous donor.

December 4

Sunday Guided Museum Tour with Tom Saunders

You’ll learn so much more about Alain and May White and their generous gift to us, by spending time with Museum Docent, Tom Saunders! Tom is available to give tours on the first and third Sundays of every month at 2:00 pm or by appointment. Admission is FREE to Members and $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for children ages 12 - 6. There is free admission for children under the age of 6.

December 7

Dark of Winter Yoga with Judith Ehrman-Shapiro

This class will run for 17 weeks, from the change of the clock in November to the change of the clock in March, specifically November 9 to March 8. The class will meet on Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30. This class will meet on Zoom, but there are a few spaces in the studio for in-person students who are vaccinated (please contact me directly if interested). There is no previous yoga experience required. The purpose of the class is self-care during the winter season; increasing self-awareness, emotional balance, physical strength, flexibility, and muscular endurance. The class will integrate mindfulness, breath technique, yoga postures, kinesthetic awareness, and alignment in an hour of relaxing, quiet, guided movement.

The cost will be $100 paid by the first class for access to the whole season! Or pay for one class at a time, $10 per class. Money can be exchanged on Venmo, Square, Cash, or Check. Please contact Judith to make these arrangements. Each class attended donates $1 to White Memorial Conservation Center!! After you Contact Judith, the link for the class will be provided.

Contact Information: Judith’s phone and text is 860-309-9489. Email can be sent to [email protected].
Judith Ehrman-Shapiro, PhD, BC-DMT, NCC, RYT is a psychotherapist, dance-movement therapist, nationally certified counselor, and registered yoga teacher. Her private practice, the Evolving Center, is in Winsted. She is a proud member of White Memorial Conservation Center, where she has been sharing her love of yoga for over 6 years! 

Thursday, December 8 
Ages 3-6 years? 
Nature’s Nursery Series ? 
4:00-5:00pm ? 
Join us on the second Thursday of each month from September – December for an engaging program designed just for your young nature lovers. Every session will include a story, an encounter with a live animal, and an activity or craft. Parents/Caregivers, we ask that you stay for the duration of the program. Meet in the A.B. Ceder Room. 4-5pm. Advanced registration is required. To register, please call 860-567-0857 or visit whitememorialcc.org. Space is limited. Please inquire about financial aid as needed. Members: $9/child per session or $30/whole series, Non-Members: $13/child per session or $50/whole series? 

December 10

Wildlife in Winter with Erin Josefson

Have you ever noticed that nature just seems quieter in winter? Besides the occasional chirp of a bird or rustle of a squirrel, you’re left to wonder, “Where did everybody go?” Come to this program presented by Environmental Educator Rin Josefson to find out! Whether it’s migration, hibernation, or remaining active, animals employ clever strategies to get through harsh winter conditions. Using natural props, games, and a few live animal ambassadors, we will learn all about CT’s wildlife in winter. 10:00 a.m., A. B. Ceder Room, FREE…Donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses. 

December 14

Dark of Winter Yoga with Judith Ehrman-Shapiro

This class will run for 17 weeks, from the change of the clock in November to the change of the clock in March, specifically November 9 to March 8. The class will meet on Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30. This class will meet on Zoom, but there are a few spaces in the studio for in-person students who are vaccinated (please contact me directly if interested). There is no previous yoga experience required. The purpose of the class is self-care during the winter season; increasing self-awareness, emotional balance, physical strength, flexibility, and muscular endurance. The class will integrate mindfulness, breath technique, yoga postures, kinesthetic awareness, and alignment in an hour of relaxing, quiet, guided movement.

The cost will be $100 paid by the first class for access to the whole season! Or pay for one class at a time, $10 per class. Money can be exchanged on Venmo, Square, Cash, or Check. Please contact Judith to make these arrangements. Each class attended donates $1 to White Memorial Conservation Center!! After you Contact Judith, the link for the class will be provided.

Contact Information: Judith’s phone and text is 860-309-9489. Email can be sent to [email protected].
Judith Ehrman-Shapiro, PhD, BC-DMT, NCC, RYT is a psychotherapist, dance-movement therapist, nationally certified counselor, and registered yoga teacher. Her private practice, the Evolving Center, is in Winsted. She is a proud member of White Memorial Conservation Center, where she has been sharing her love of yoga for over 6 years! 

December 15

Babies in Backpacks with Kelly Orr

For ages 6 months to 2 years!

Come and explore the great outdoors in a way that your child can get excited about! The third Thursday of every month we will enjoy a hike with your child in a babywearing carrier or follow their pace if they are mobile.  There will only be expectations of exploring the world around us, not of a mile mark or speed.  Depending on the energy level of the group we will use our bodies to move in nature for 30 minutes, followed by an activity.  We will read books about the outdoors, enjoy touch and feel stations, use sand and water bins and more! This will be a year-round program. The goal is to encourage family time outdoors in all seasons.  We will still play outside in rain, snow, heat, and cold.  Unsafe weather will push us indoors.  Plan to get a little dirty, and come with weather appropriate clothing, sunscreen and bug spray as needed.  Caretakers must stay for the duration of the program. Please park in the horse trailer parking and meet in the Pollinator Garden.  

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Members: $9.00  Non-Members: $13.00, Pre-registration is required by calling 860-567-0857 or register online here: www.whitememorialcc.org  Space is limited. Please inquire about financial aid as needed. 

December 17

Circumnavigating Five Ponds with Gerri Griswold

Spend quality time exploring one of the most magical areas on our property! We’ll be tackling every pond! Heron, Plunge Pool, Fawn, Teal, and Beaver! Learn fun facts about how the Whites managed this property! Pack a lunch and bring plenty of water. Sturdy footwear and rain gear are a must. We are conquering Five Ponds rain, snow, or shine! Expect a three mile hike, give or take. Meet at the trailhead at the junction of Route’s 63 / 61. 11 AM – 2:00 P.M., Please call 860-567-0857 to pre-register or register online: www.whitememorialcc.org  FREE … Donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses. 

December 17

Nature Connection Walk with Andy Dobos

Want to go deeper with your relationship with Nature? Explore areas of White Memorial with Nature connection mentor Andy Dobos of Forest Wolf Programs who will help you hone your powers of observation and gain more familiarity with the plant and animals we pass every day and may hardly know. 

Things that may be covered are identifying edible trees and plants, wildlife tracking, relationships between species, perception exercises and more. 

3 hours, children of all ages are welcome when accompanied by an adult. 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Meet in the Museum., Members: $10.00, Non-Members: $15.00. Pre-registration is required. Call 860-567-0857 or register online: www.whitememorialcc.org 

December 18

Sunday Guided Museum Tour with Tom Saunders

You’ll learn so much more about Alain and May White and their generous gift to us, by spending time with Museum Docent, Tom Saunders! Tom is available to give tours on the first and third Sundays of every month at 2:00 pm or by appointment. Admission is FREE to Members and $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for children ages 12 - 6. There is free admission for children under the age of 6.

December 18

Litchfield Hills Audubon Christmas Bird Count

To volunteer, email Ray Belding: [email protected] 

December 21 – 27

Museum Children Free Week

Courtesy of Tara and Arthur Diedrick.  Free admission to children ages twelve and under when accompanied by an adult. 

December 21

Dark of Winter Yoga with Judith Ehrman-Shapiro

This class will run for 17 weeks, from the change of the clock in November to the change of the clock in March, specifically November 9 to March 8. The class will meet on Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30. This class will meet on Zoom, but there are a few spaces in the studio for in-person students who are vaccinated (please contact me directly if interested). There is no previous yoga experience required. The purpose of the class is self-care during the winter season; increasing self-awareness, emotional balance, physical strength, flexibility, and muscular endurance. The class will integrate mindfulness, breath technique, yoga postures, kinesthetic awareness, and alignment in an hour of relaxing, quiet, guided movement.
The cost will be $100 paid by the first class for access to the whole season! Or pay for one class at a time, $10 per class. Money can be exchanged on Venmo, Square, Cash, or Check. Please contact Judith to make these arrangements. Each class attended donates $1 to White Memorial Conservation Center!! After you Contact Judith, the link for the class will be provided.
Contact Information: Judith’s phone and text is 860-309-9489. Email can be sent to [email protected]
Judith Ehrman-Shapiro, PhD, BC-DMT, NCC, RYT is a psychotherapist, dance-movement therapist, nationally certified counselor, and registered yoga teacher. Her private practice, the Evolving Center, is in Winsted. She is a proud member of White Memorial Conservation Center, where she has been sharing her love of yoga for over 6 years!

December 24

A Christmas Eve Stroll Up Apple Hill with Gerri Griswold

It’s actually just an excuse to savor homemade scones, guzzle outlandishly rich hot chocolate, and share friendship on this eve of all eves at the pinnacle of one of our most beautiful trails. Comfort and Joy! 10:00 a.m., Meet at the Apple Hill Trailhead off East Shore Road. The event is free and limited to 12 guests. Please pre-register by calling 860-567-0857 or register online: www.whitememorialcc.org FREE…Donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses.

December 25

Christmas

Museum Closed

December 26

Christmas

Offices Closed

Grades 1-3: Tuesday, December 27? 
Grades 4-6: Wednesday, December 28? 
One-Day Fun Day at White Memorial? 
9:30am-3:30pm 
Nature can be so much fun in the winter! So, grab your coat, boots, and hat, and let’s spend one of your vacation days learning about the natural world around you. Get outside, play games, make crafts, meet live animals! A morning and afternoon snack/drink will warm us up between adventures. Please bring a lunch and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Parents/Guardians are welcome to stay, but it is not necessary. Meet in the A.B. Ceder Room. 9:30am-3:30pm. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. Please call 860-567-0857 or visit whitememorialcc.org to register. Space is limited! Please inquire about financial aid as needed. Members: $40 Non-Members: $70

December 28

Dark of Winter Yoga with Judith Ehrman-Shapiro

This class will run for 17 weeks, from the change of the clock in November to the change of the clock in March, specifically November 9 to March 8. The class will meet on Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30. This class will meet on Zoom, but there are a few spaces in the studio for in-person students who are vaccinated (please contact me directly if interested). There is no previous yoga experience required. The purpose of the class is self-care during the winter season; increasing self-awareness, emotional balance, physical strength, flexibility, and muscular endurance. The class will integrate mindfulness, breath technique, yoga postures, kinesthetic awareness, and alignment in an hour of relaxing, quiet, guided movement.

The cost will be $100 paid by the first class for access to the whole season! Or pay for one class at a time, $10 per class. Money can be exchanged on Venmo, Square, Cash, or Check. Please contact Judith to make these arrangements. Each class attended donates $1 to White Memorial Conservation Center!! After you Contact Judith, the link for the class will be provided.

Contact Information: Judith’s phone and text is 860-309-9489. Email can be sent to [email protected] . Judith Ehrman-Shapiro, PhD, BC-DMT, NCC, RYT is a psychotherapist, dance-movement therapist, nationally certified counselor, and registered yoga teacher. Her private practice, the Evolving Center, is in Winsted. She is a proud member of White Memorial Conservation Center, where she has been sharing her love of yoga for over 6 years!

December 31

New Year’s Eve Morning Hike to Little Pond Boardwalk with Gerri Griswold

Let’s ring in 2023 together on an early morning hike to our beloved Boardwalk! Wear your finest party hat! We’ll supply the sparklers and a glass of cheer at the end of our walk! 7:00 a.m., Meet in the A. B. Ceder Room, FREE… Donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses.

January 1

New Year’s Day

Museum Closed