Don’t Miss

 

Bring That Swing

 

SPRYE presents a free concert, May 6 at 1 p.m. at the Rye Arts Center. Enjoy the music of Nat King Cole, Glenn Miller, The Platters, Johnny Cash, and more performed by RAC instructors. Reminisce and bring along your dancing shoes!

 

One of the Best Shopping Days of the Year

 

Springtime brings the fabulous shopping event we all look forward to: the Designing Women of Rye and Beyond boutique fundraiser, organized by The Woman’s Club of Rye, Children’s Philanthropy. The ninth annual event will take place at Apawamis Club on Wednesday, May 8 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Once again, it will feature a special “Girls Night Out” from 6-8 p.m., which will include complimentary gift bags for the first 50 attendees as well as a cash bar.

 

This fabulous array of merchandise will include terrific hostess gifts and home goods, unique accessories including jewelry, sunglasses and leather goods, as well as beautiful plants, flowers, epicurean delights and more.  Remember Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduations are right around the corner.

Every Coin Counts

 

Sole Ryeders & Friends’ second annual Cover the Court with Coins fundraiser will take place May 11 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Rye Rec tennis courts. The challenge to the community is to cover an entire tennis court with coins. All of the coins will be donated to The Pinwheel Project in support of hospitalized children, many of who are being treated for cancer. 

 

The Rye TD Bank Store is the Platinum Sponsor of this event. Beginning last month, TD Bank started handing out coin banks to help children collect donations. They also will be on-site at the event to help collect the coins and then count them in their Penny Arcade.

 

Sole Ryeders encourages children to stop by the Rye Recreation Tennis Courts on May 11 and place their coins on the court – or drop off their coins and a Sole Ryeders’ volunteer will place them on the court. (If the court is wet on the day of the event, bring your coins to TD Bank Rye.)

 

Sole Ryeders’ volunteers will be available to: Assist younger children in placing coins on the tennis court; Help children create get-well cards for children undergoing bone marrow transplants at local hospitals; Provide baked sale goodies and raffle tickets, which are being organized by Reach Out Rye student volunteers.

 

Every coin makes a difference to a hospitalized child.

 

Rye Presbyterian Church Fundraiser

 

Rye Presbyterian Church’s spring benefit will take place, May 11 from 6:30-10 p.m. Enjoy live music, rocks bands, and singing groups from Rye High School and Rye Country Day School. Don’t miss the auction where you can bid on six terrific timeshares. Enjoy fine wine sampling and delicious Memphis BBQ.

 
Per person cost is $50. There is onsite babysitting. RSVP to desantiscw@aol.com

 

Family Ties

 

Attention Campers

 

The Rye YMCA will host a Family Camping 101 Workshop for people who want to experience a taste of wilderness but don’t know where or how to start. The interactive event, which is free and open to the public, will be held Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

 

Y staff members who are also experienced campers will lead the workshop, covering such topics as: finding the right campground, buying or renting gear, cooking outdoors, and staying safe in the woods. A representative of Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) in Scarsdale will be on hand with the store’s tents.  Families will be able to try their hand at setting up a tent. Participating families and individuals will receive helpful handouts and a free raffle ticket for an EMS gift certificate.

 

The focus of the workshop will be on “car camping” — staying at a public or privately owned campground with one’s car nearby — as opposed to wilderness camping or backpacking.

 

“Camping, especially with young children, can be an intimidating prospect if you’ve never been,” observed Rye Y Executive Director Gregg Howells. “However, the benefits of spending time in nature — sleeping in a tent, swimming in a lake, cooking over a fire — can last a lifetime. We want to take the mystery out of camping and show families how much fun it can be to have quality, unplugged time together.”

 

The workshop, which is part of the Kids Outdoors initiative, will be held on the lawn behind the Y parking lot. In the event of rain, the workshop will move inside. To RSVP or for additional information, contact Denise Woodin at 967-6363, ext. 101, or denisewoodin@ryeymca.org.

 

Water Safety Workshops

 

May is National Water Safety Month and the Rye Y is hosting two free workshops to ensure that everybody is practicing safety around the water this summer. Each workshop features separate adult and child lectures, followed by a family swim where safety skills can be put into practice.

 

To register, call 967-6363. Sessions are May 17 from 6-8 p.m. or May 18 from 1-3 p.m.

 

Science Saturdays

 

Explore the biology of Nanderwhere Pond with nets and microscopes, May 11 from 10-11 a.m. at the Rye Nature Center. The program is open to members with children in grades 4 and 5.

 

Pre-registration is required; call 967-5150.

 

Inspiring Story for Mother’s Day

 

Ages 3½ and up and their families can celebrate Mother’s Day with a special story time, May 11 at 11 a.m. at the Rye Free Reading Room. Local author Andrew Kranichfeld will read his recent book, “Karen’s Garden”, which he wrote as a tribute to his late mother and the wonderful garden she planted, grew, and shared in Rye. It is filled with beautiful illustrations by Andrés A. Pratts.

 

The author, who lost his eyesight in 2010, hopes that children will be inspired to plant their own gardens and see what grows. It is also his hope that the book can serve as an inspiration for others to achieve their goals no matter what their circumstances or limitations.

 

The reading will be followed by a garden craft activity and copies of “Karen’s Garden” will be available for purchase and signing.

 

Guiding Eyes for the Blind

 

Teens and their families can attend a presentation about raising puppies for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, May 18 at 3 p.m. at the Rye library. A representative (and her puppy) will be on hand to discuss the organization’s mission and how the puppy raising process works.

 

Watch a video featuring some of Guiding Eyes’ blind graduates and enjoy a demo by the speaker’s puppy, while he shows off some of his skills and how they might benefit a blind person.

For a Good Cause

 

Party on for the Park

 

Celebrate spring at the Friends of Rye Town Park fundraiser, May 18 from 6-9 p.m. under the pavilions in the park. Enjoy dinner, music, a silent auction, and raffle. The menu includes a raw bar, sliders, BBQ chicken, salads, grilled vegetables, fries, hot dogs with the works, and more. Cost is $85 per person (beer and wine included).

 

To purchase tickets by May 13, visit friendsofrtp.org or call 967-5419.

 

Garden Party

 

Join Wainwright House for a spring awakening fundraiser and enjoy lunch outside in the tent, May 22 from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Enjoy music, stroll through the meditation garden, walk along the seaside labyrinth, and much more.

 

Tickets start at $70. Proceeds benefit Wainwright House. Visit wainwright.org or call 967-6080.

This Weekend

 

“America: Coast to Coast”

 

Photographer Scott Dengrove’s collection of photographs showcasing landscapes, architecture, and nature from his travels across the United States, is on display May 3-29 at the Rye library. An opening reception will be held Saturday from 1-4 p.m.

 

Lend a Hand

 

Help with invasive plant removal, path maintenance, and more at the Jay Heritage Center, Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring your own gloves. Tools, T–shirts, and refreshments will be provided.

 

This is a wonderful opportunity for Rye newcomers to get involved in civic projects. Ideal for gardeners or high school students looking to contribute community service hours. Call 698-9275.

 

An Amazing Animal Adventure

 

Fathers and their children can take part in an animal-filled adventure, Saturday from 9:15-10 a.m. at the Rye Nature Center.

 

Mixed Media Monsters

 

Young artists (ages 6-9) will use a variety of materials to realize a fantastic creature from their imagination, Saturday from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Rye Arts Center. This workshop is designed to foster a sense of creativity and problem solving through techniques learned from the Guggenheim Fostering Creativity Program. Fee is $15.

 

Blooming Buds at Bird

 

Naturalist Alison Beall will lead a flower walk on the Meeting House grounds and the adjoining Bird property, Saturday at 4 p.m.

 

Learn about the structure and botanical characteristics of the trees and wildflowers in bloom and their folklore. The walk also includes cultivated flowers and shrubs planted by the Bird family many decades ago. 

 

As volunteers clear overgrown areas, more and more of the Bird family’s plantings are revealed.

 

Meet outside the Meeting House at 624 Milton Road. The program is free. For more information, call 967-0099.

 

Time to Join the Band?

 

Third graders who are interested in playing in the school band or orchestra next year, can head to the Rye Arts Center and learn all about the different instruments, Sunday from 2-4 p.m.

Talks and Workshops

 

Electronics Unraveled

 

At SPRYE’s last free tech workshop of the season, learn the ins and outs of your smart phones, tablets, and laptops with one-on-one assistance from Rye High students, May 7 from 3-4 p.m. at the RyeTV studios at the high school.

 

Ode to Our Mothers

 

“Mothers and Flowers” is the theme at the upcoming Rye Storytellers’ Guild meeting, May 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rye library. Listeners, as well as tellers, are welcome. For more information, call 231-3161. 

 

Make Your Full Plate a Healthy One

 

Too busy? No time? Stressed out? Moms who have a lot on their plates are invited to “The Full Plate with Wendy Nagle” at the Rye Free Reading Room on Tuesday, May 14, at 10 a.m.

 

Health coach Nagle will inspire moms to be mindful of the foods and facets of life that comprise a healthy plate. Learn how and why you should add color and balance to your plate. Nourishing knowledge is key to health and happiness. What’s on your plate?

 

Nagle, tri-athlete and the mother of four, is a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. As a recipient of a Rye YMCA Community Service Award, she has been active in many local organizations, including the Rye Free Reading Room, where she has served on and led the Auxiliary Board and chaired the “Novel Night” fundraiser.

 

This event is sponsored by the library’s Auxiliary Board. For more information, call 231-3161 or visit www.ryelibrary.org.

 

Life Comes to Willa Cather

 

Actress Prudence Wright Holmes will bring author Willa Cather to life, May 14 at 7 p.m. at the Rye library. The presentation, “Call Me William,” directed by Nora Deveau Rosen, examines the life and loves of the famous writer. 

 

In the 1880s, Willa Cather astounded her Nebraska neighbors with her brilliant mind and unconventional ways. As she said, “Being a girl never damaged [her] ambition to become Pope or Emperor.” Instead, she became a highly acclaimed author. “My Antonia” and “Death Comes for the Archbishop” are among her classic works of fiction. She won a Pulitzer Prize in 1923.

 

Despite her success, Cather’s personal life was fraught with conflict. Writing became her refuge.

 

Ms. Holmes has played featured roles in such films and television series as “Sister Act,” “Kingpin,” and “Boardwalk Empire.” On Broadway, she appeared in “Lettice and Lovage” with Maggie Smith and “Inherit the Wind” with George C. Scott.

 

Excel-lent Friends

 

The Rye Free Reading Room is offering how-to workshops on Facebook and Excel this month. “How Do I Facebook?” on May 16, will cover the ins and outs of the social media site that lets you connect with old and new friends, and share photos and experiences.

 

At “Intro to Excel” on May 23, learn the basics of how to use this versatile program to set up spreadsheets. Widely employed by businesses and students, it also has many applications for home use. 

 

Both workshops run from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

 

Call it Sleep

 

Are you sleep-deprived? Wondering if your baby will ever sleep through the night? Unsure of whom to ask for advice? Angela Walsh, Certified Infant and Child Sleep Consultant and founder of Babes in Sleepland, will try and help solve your sleep issues at an informative program at the Rye library, May 16 at 10 a.m.

 

Learn the five key elements of healthy sleep and how you and your little one can both get the restful sleep you need. Bring your baby, along with your questions. Call 231-3161 for more details.

Arts & Entertainment

 

An Artist Who Knows Where She Is Going

 

The Harrison Council for the Arts presents an exhibit of paintings and pastels by Marion Schneider, “Where To?” An opening reception will be held at the Harrison Library May 11 from 2-4 p.m. The show runs from May 5-31.

 

As an art director for over 35 years, Schneider’s design background has had a tremendous influence on her painting.

 

For more information, call 835-0324

 

Rising RHS Artists

 

Artwork by Rye High School students will be on display May 16 through June 14 at the Rye library. 

 

The works, which were created in art classes taught by Mr. Anthony Campbell and Mr. Bendis Mani during the school year, will hang in the Children’s Room Corridor Gallery.

 

A reception for the student artists will be held May 16 from 3:30-5 p.m. 

 

A Show That Sparkles

 

“The Nature’s Art: Geodes,” the Rye Arts Center’s new exhibit, runs through May 24. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Just for Fun

 

Emerging Panama

 

Travel Anywhere and Parkers are hosting an exciting travel and tourism event about the newest hot destination in Central America, May 16 from 6-8 p.m. at Parkers, 43 Purchase Street. Learn all about what Panama has to offer, while enjoying tapas and sangria.

 

Kids’ Corner

 

The Weekend Has Begun!

 

Ages 5 and up can let loose at the Rye library’s Friday Afternoon Fun programs this month. On May 10 from 3:30-4:30 p.m., children can listen to stories about Moms and make something special for a mother or grandmother.

 

On May 24, watch the movie “Frankenweenie” (PG) from 3:30-5 p.m.

 

Double Bubble Trouble

 

Ages 4 and up can see a bubble volcano, a bubble roller coaster, and even a kid in a bubble, May 11 at 2 p.m. at the Rye Free Reading Room. Jeff, of Jeff Boyer Productions, juggles bubbles, sculpts, and builds with bubbles, and even makes fog-filled. Don’t miss this one-man bubble extravaganza that mixes comedy, music, and interactive bubble-magic.

 

Pre-registration is required; call 231-3162.

Teen & Tween Times

 

Game On!

 

Play Wii and X-BOX games on the library’s big screen, May 3 and 17 from 3-4:30 p.m. Whether you’re a sports, action, or karaoke fan, the library has lots to choose from. Teens can also bring their own games. Snacks are provided.

 

Y Nights

 

Teens in grades 6-8 can enjoy a variety of activities, including a bouncy house, music, Xbox, racquetball, and swimming (swim caps required), and socialize with friends in the Teen Lounge May 4, 11, and 18 from 7-10 p.m. Teens can also play air hockey, pool, ping-pong, and foosball in the Game Room. 

 

College Admissions 101

 

Get the inside scoop on the college admissions process, May 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rye library. Applerouth Education and Acceptance Ahead will give a presentation focusing on the various steps along a high school student’s road to college acceptance. 

 

Times and checklists for each grade, what happens inside the college admissions office, and the actual application will all be covered.

 

Tarot Time

 

Explore the mysteries of the ancient art of Tarot reading with Doreen Lavista, May 11 at 2 p.m. at the Rye library. Examine and translate symbolism in traditional archetype form using the Major Arcana of the Tarot deck. The presentation includes a PowerPoint illustrated talk and a Q&A session. 

 

Lavista is a Tarot consultant, Reiki Master/Teacher, and the host of RCTV’s “Pagan’s Corner,” which features various metaphysical topics. To pre-register call 231-3172.

 

Gotta Dance

 

Fifth and sixth graders are invited to hit the dance floor and show their best moves at DJ Night, May 17 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Rye Rec. Refreshments will be served. Cost is $20 for residents, $25 non-residents.

The Great Outdoors

 

Happy Trails

 

Help the Rye Nature Center staff prepare the trails for the enjoyment of the entire community, May 11 at 1 p.m.

 

On May 18, join a RNC naturalist for a guided hike into the forest. Cost is $5 for members, $8 non-members.

 

Marshlands Meadows and Melodies

 

In celebration of Mother’s Day, discover beautiful wildflowers from the meadow to shore on May 12 at 2 p.m.

 

On May 18 at 7:30 a.m., observe the migration of warblers and listen to their songs.

Save the Date

 

Evening Picnic on the Sound

 

The Rye Historical Society will host its annual gala benefit on Saturday, June 1 from 7 to 10 p.m. at a beautiful waterfront home in Rye. The gala committee has planned a memorable evening of live music, light supper and cocktails, with live and silent auctions featuring unique and distinctive items. 

 

As in previous years, guests will have an opportunity to support the Society’s mission by making donations to the Giving Tree, which includes underwriting some of the most popular programs presented by the Society, such as Pumpkin Carving in the fall and Hands-on-History summer camp.

 

Auction items and Giving Tree offerings can be viewed on-line at the Auction website, https://www.501auctions.com/rhs. Bidding is open to the general public and is not limited to gala attendees.

 

The Rye Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating Rye’s rich historical heritage. The Society operates two historic structures open to the public. The Square House Museum, c. 1730, offers tours, educational programs, and changing exhibits.  The Knapp House Archives, c.1670, house the Society’s extensive archival collections.

 

Tickets to the benefit start at $135 per person at the Sponsor level. For reservations or more information, call 967-7588 or visit www.ryehistory.org.  The Square House Museum is open Tuesday to Friday, from 9 to 4 and Saturday from 10 to 3.