Weave Some Love This February: Handcrafted Gifts @ Tina Puckett’s Studio and Sip and Shop @ Whiting Mills

February is the month of love, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by embracing the timeless beauty of handcrafted art. This month, Tina’s Baskets and Woven Art at Whiting Mills in Winsted, Connecticut, invites you to explore a world of artistry that celebrates love in all its forms. From stunning handmade baskets and bowls to woven wall hangings and sculptures, Tina Puckett’s creations are more than just gifts—they’re heartfelt connections.

The talented Tina Puckett, a nationally and internationally recognized artist known for her extraordinary weaving techniques and dimensional art, thoughtfully crafts each piece. Whether you’re shopping for a cherished partner, a lifelong friend, or a family member who deserves a special “thank you,” Tina’s creations are the perfect way to say, “I care.”

A Studio Full of Heart
Step into Tina’s working art studio, a space brimming with creativity and swoon-worthy treasures. Located in the historic Whiting Mills, her studio offers a unique opportunity to watch the magic of weaving in action. Not only can you browse her exquisite art pieces, but also you might even catch Tina at work, weaving her next masterpiece using her signature hand-dyed reeds, bittersweet vines, and artistic embellishments like beads and seagrass. Visiting Tina’s studio is stepping into a world of breathtaking craftsmanship where each piece is a one-of-a-kind gift that reflects time, effort, and love. It is also fun to chat with Tina to learn about the stories behind her work.

Don’t Miss the “Shop and Sip” Event February 9
Mark your calendars for Sunday, February 9th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., when Tina’s Baskets and Whiting Mills host their Second Annual Valentine’s Day “Shop and Sip” extravaganza. This lively event is the perfect chance to explore 20 art studios shopping for one of a kind gifts for your loved ones while enjoying complimentary refreshments, and live music in the Instagram-worthy mill, decked out in festive Valentine’s décor.

And, of course, Tina’s studio will be a highlight of the day! Enjoy chocolates and champagne while browsing her handmade treasures. Whether it’s a stunning woven bowl or an unforgettable Valentine’s Day gift basket to fill with goodies, you’re bound to find something truly special.

Valentine’s Gift That Wows
Why settle for ordinary when you can give a gift that’s as unique as your loved one? A handcrafted piece from Tina’s Baskets and Woven Art is more than just a present—it’s a heartfelt gesture that shows you’ve put thought into every detail. Tina’s studio is open every weekend in February from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointment if you need a more personal shopping experience.

About Tina Puckett
Tina Puckett has been mastering the art of weaving since 1981. Her work incorporates hand-dyed reeds, bittersweet vines, and other natural materials, creating pieces that are as durable as they are beautiful. A true artisan, Tina’s woven art is showcased in galleries throughout the United States, though her Whiting Mills studio remains the heart of her creative world. For custom orders or inquiries, text Tina directly at 860-309-6934 or visit

JanetLeave a comment

Dare to Watch? Ski Jumpers Defy Gravity at Salisbury’s Iconic Jumpfest! January 31 – February 2

This year, why not elevate your love for winter sports—literally? Ski jumping, a breathtaking blend of athleticism and daring, might just become your new obsession. And there’s no better place to experience this electrifying sport on the East Coast than Salisbury’s Jumpfest, happening Friday, January 31 through Sunday, February 2. What makes Jumpfest truly special? You’ll witness jaw-dropping performances, often featuring Olympic hopefuls, soaring through the crisp winter air. Don’t worry if there’s no snow in your backyard—Satre Hill will be blanketed in pristine, powdery snow, thanks to the state-of-the-art snowmaking technology of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA).

Let’s be honest—not everyone can ski, let alone soar through the air and nail a landing with any grace. But watching ski jumpers defy gravity in real-time? That’s a whole different level of excitement. This is a sport where every second and every movement counts, making it as unpredictable as it is electrifying. With razor-thin margins and unexpected victories, no two performances are ever the same. Once you see the precision, skill, and sheer guts it takes to master this sport, you’ll be hooked. And there’s no better place to experience the adrenaline than Salisbury’s Jumpfest—set to be bigger, bolder, and better than ever! The frost in the air, the clang of cowbells, the roar of the crowd, and the unmistakable thwack of skis hitting the landing hill—it’s pure magic. This isn’t just an event, it’s a winter experience!”

Jumpfest delivers three days of heart pounding excitement and ski jumping competitions. As one of only six East Coast venues—and among the oldest and most prestigious—Salisbury has hosted jumpers that have gone on to the Olympics in past competitions. Witness an extraordinary spectacle as athletes take on not one, but three distinct hills: the 20-meter, 30-meter, and the towering 65-meter hill. Brace yourself as jumpers launch into the air, soaring up to 200 feet at breathtaking speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour. This is a rare chance to see skill, bravery, and gravity-defying feats all in one exhilarating event!

Friday begins when the gates swing open at 6 PM. The excitement kicks off at 7 PM with Target Jumping, followed by the crowd-favorite Human Dog Sled Race. Watch teams of six go head-to-head in this wildly entertaining, one-of-a-kind competition. With thrilling prizes and year-long bragging rights on the line, it’s a can’t-miss spectacle of fun and chaos. You won’t find many places in the country hosting an event like this, and certainly not close to Connecticut. Make sure you’re there—this is the stuff memories (and legends) are made of! To enter head to https://www.skireg.com/jumpfest-human-dogsled-race and keep in mind the deadline for entering this zany event is January 30th. The fee to enter is a modest $25 per team that includes free entrance to Jumpfest! Proceeds benefit SWSA’s Junior Ski Programs.

On Saturday, February 1st, the small hill opens at 8 a.m. for practice jumps. At 9:30 a.m., cheer on the next generation of ski jumpers during the Junior Competition on the 20-meter and 30-meter hills. The action heats up as the 70-meter hill opens from 11 a.m. to noon for warm-ups and practice jumps, all leading up to the main event: the Salisbury Invitational Ski Jump Competition on the big hill at 1 p.m. The day wraps up with the Snowball Fundraiser that begins at 8 p.m. and runs through 11:30 p.m. at the Lakeville Town Grove. Dance the night away with live music from the Steve Dunn Band, try your luck in the raffle, and refuel with pizza at 10 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, kids 12 and under are free.

On Sunday, February 2nd the action kicks off at 11 a.m. when the 70-meter hill opens for warm-ups and practice jumps. It’s the perfect chance to scope out the athletes’ style, form, and landings up close. But the real excitement starts at 1 p.m. with the Eastern U.S. Ski Jumping Championships—easily the biggest highlight of the weekend. Feel the tension as ski jumpers sit on the bar, laser-focused, waiting for the go signal. Then, it’s pure magic. They launch into the air, helmets leading the charge, arms thrown back, and bodies tucked tight for ultimate speed and aerodynamics. Balance. Flexibility. Nerve. It’s all on display as they soar from the top of the hill to the bottom in just 20 electrifying seconds. Blink, and you might miss it. The stakes couldn’t be higher—winners of the championships will earn their spot on the Eastern Division of the Junior National Team. Stick around for the awards ceremony to see who makes the cut. Don’t just watch the action—feel it. This is ski jumping at its finest.

And, if you work up an appetite, no worries, the Cook Shack offers a range of burgers, dogs, hot chocolate and more, and the Low N Slow Food Truck serves BBQ, authentic poutine, mac n’ cheese and many other selections on all three days. There will also be a wine tent, a hot toddy tent, and the Great Falls Brewing Company’s beer tent.

Tickets will be available at the gate and are $15 for adults on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Kids 12 and under are free all three days. The cost of the Snowball is $20 and includes a cash bar, music, raffles, and pizza at 10 p.m. The ski jump complex is located at Satre Hill on Indian Cave Road in Salisbury. Before setting out check www.jumpfest.org for updates, scheduled changes, or more information or email the Association at info@jumpfest.org.

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION
The mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint the public with Nordic ski-jumping, cross –country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment. One way of fulfilling this mission is to host the annual Jumpfest Competition on Satre Hill to sustain and ski jumping in Salisbury, Connecticut, and the Eastern United States.

JanetLeave a comment

“Explore More, Spend Less: Why Group Travel is Taking Over 2025”

Group travel in the U.S. is gaining popularity heading into 2025, and for good reason, says Tyler Zajacz, President of Tours of Distinction, a Connecticut-based tour operator with over 50 years of experience. “Group travel combines affordability, convenience, and meaningful shared experiences, making it an increasingly appealing travel option,” Zajacz explains.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, group room demand in the top 25 U.S. markets grew by 9%, and 93% of leisure travelers plan to travel within the next six months, up from 90% at the end of 2024. Several factors are driving this trend, with cost-effectiveness leading the way. “Group travel offers significant savings,” says Zajacz. “From discounted airfare and shared motorcoach costs to reduced hotel rates and group pricing on activities, it allows travelers to enjoy bucket-list trips without overspending.

Another key driver is the growing desire for authentic, shared experiences. “People value creating lasting memories with family and friends – old and new, and group trips provide the perfect opportunity for these connections,” Zajacz notes.

Group travel also eliminates much of the stress associated with trip planning. “We handle everything—from logistics to accommodations—so travelers can simply enjoy the experience,” Zajacz shares. Tours of Distinction even assigns a professional Group Tour Director to each trip to ensure every detail goes smoothly, a convenience that appeals to travelers.

Additionally, group travel offers an added sense of security, particularly for international trips or unfamiliar destinations.

As preferences shift toward experience-driven travel, the rise of group travel reflects a growing desire for affordability, ease, safety, and connection. This upward trend shows no signs of slowing, offering travelers more opportunities to explore the world—together.

About Tours of Distinction

Since 1971, Tours of Distinction www.toursofdistinction.net has been crafting unforgettable travel experiences for mature adults. From relaxing day trips to epic 7-14 day national and international adventures, we specialize in small-group guided tours designed to make every moment distinctive. For us, travel isn’t just a business—it’s a way of life that fosters connection, curiosity, and community, both at home and across the globe. Let’s make your next journey extraordinary and distinctive!

JanetLeave a comment

Compete in Jumpfest’s Human Dog Sled Race for Cash Prizes: A Winter Tradition Like No Other January 31 @ Satre Hill

Get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure at Jumpfest, hosted by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA). While aspiring Olympic ski jumpers take center stage, this event also delivers one-of-a-kind thrills with the wildly popular Human Dog Sled Race—a unique spectacle found in only a handful of places worldwide.

This year, the Human Dog Sled Race returns as a fan-favorite tradition, kicking off under the newly installed state-of-the-art lights at Satre Hill in Salisbury on Friday, January 31. New this year, teams will compete for Cash Prizes! The action begins around 8:30 p.m., right after the Target Jumps wrap-up. Planning to compete? Be sure to arrive when the ticket booth opens at 6 p.m. to check in, organize your sled, and lock in your spot for the race. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exhilarating winter event!

Are you curious about what a Human Dog Sled Race is? Think classic dogsledding but with a hilarious twist—no huskies here! Instead, you and your friends are the “power pups.” Here’s the scoop: gather a team of six – everyone must be 18+ and ready for some snowy action. Five teammates will pull the sled, while one lucky rider gets the best seat in the house—along with the laughs! The race spans a .3-mile snow track, so be prepared to bring your A-game. Compete for glory and cash prizes in men’s, women’s, or mixed categories, but speed isn’t your only ticket to victory. The ultimate prize? The People’s Choice Award, given to the team with the most creative costumes and sled design. Think outside the sled—inner tubes, steam-punk rigs, you name it. The crazier, the better! Dress to impress, unleash your team spirit, and let the snow-filled fun begin!

Registration is open through January 30, 2025. The registration form is online at jumpfest.org. The fee to enter is a modest $25 per team, including free entrance to Jumpfest! Proceeds benefit SWSA’s Junior Ski Programs. An added bonus is that Friday night of Jumpfest is a great all-around time in a beautiful alpine setting. An eighth of a mile of luminaries guide visitors to the site where there are two roaring bonfires and plenty of food and beverages to snack on. The target ski jumping and the Human Dog Sled Races are held under the newly installed state-of-the-art lights, and both are professionally announced! For more information about Jumpfest https://jumpfest.org 

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION

The mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint the public with Nordic ski-jumping, cross –country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment. One way of fulfilling this mission is to host the annual Jumpfest Competition on Satre Hill to sustain and ski jumping in Salisbury, Connecticut, and the Eastern United States.

JanetLeave a comment

Medicinal Monday: The Evergreen Elegance of Great Laurel

Among Connecticut’s lush woodlands lies one of nature’s most stunning yet mysterious evergreens — the Great Laurel. Known scientifically as Rhododendron maximum, this shrub captivates with its vibrant blooms and intriguing medicinal history. While its striking appearance makes it a cherished ornamental plant, it also harbors ancient secrets from the past. But, be warned! While parts of the Great Laurel boast medicinal properties, the plant contains poisonous substances and should not be ingested by humans or animals.

The Great Laurel at a Glance
The Great Laurel, part of the Ericaceae (Heath) family, is a loose, broadleaf evergreen with a distinctive look:

Leaves: Its dark blue-green, leathery leaves are the largest among native rhododendrons.
Size: It grows up to 15 feet in Connecticut, though it can soar to an impressive 40 feet in ideal conditions.
Habitat: Found thriving in wet woods and swamps, it is native to the eastern U.S., stretching from Alabama to Nova Scotia.
Flowers: Its bell-shaped blossoms, pale pink to white with green or orange spots, bloom in clusters of 15-25 during June and July.

What makes this plant truly fascinating? It has a built-in thermostat! When temperatures drop below freezing, its leaves curl and fold downward to shield against cold, dry air — a brilliant adaptation to winter’s harshness.

Medicinal Roots of the Great Laurel
For centuries, Native Americans, including the Cherokee, harnessed the Great Laurel’s medicinal properties, transforming parts of the plant into remedies:

Liniments: A compound made from the plant served as an analgesic for pain relief.
Poultices: Crushed leaves were used to soothe headaches.
Infusions: Brewed leaves helped ease pain from minor scratches.
Ceremonial Use: During rituals, leaves were burned to summon cold weather before celebratory dances.

Did you know? Honey derived from the Great Laurel’s flowers is toxic! A curious and cautionary fact about this otherwise beneficial plant.

Fun Facts About the Great Laurel
Also called the Rosebay Rhododendron, this plant is the state flower of West Virginia.
Its wood occasionally serves practical purposes, like making tool handles.
Despite its toxicity, it’s beloved for landscaping due to its toughness and picturesque flowers.

Nature’s Masterpiece
The Great Laurel is more than just a pretty face in Connecticut’s forests. It’s a symbol of resilience, medicinal ingenuity, and nature’s ability to adapt in ways that continue to amaze. Whether admired for its ornamental beauty or appreciated for its historical significance, the Great Laurel remains an evergreen treasure worth celebrating.

Next time you’re strolling through a Connecticut wood or tending to your garden, take a moment to marvel at the Great Laurel — a plant that carries stories as rich as its blooms!

JanetLeave a comment

Don’t Miss the Premiere of The Jump by CPTV, Hosted by SWSA January 11th in Canaan

Experience the magic of the premiere of CPTV’s The Jump hosted by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA) on Saturday, January 11th, at 5:30 p.m. at the charming Colonial Theatre (37 Railroad Street, Canaan) for the premiere of The Jump.

The Jump is a story that celebrates the heart, resilience, and magic of a small-town community in northwest Connecticut that has embraced ski jumping for decades. Produced by CPTV, The Jump takes you on an inspiring journey to Salisbury, Connecticut, where a determined community rallied together to save their beloved ski jump. From the power of volunteerism to the triumph of a local hero who overcame polio to compete in the 1956 Winter Olympics in Italy, this heartwarming film highlights the spirit that makes Salisbury and SWSA extraordinary.

Discover the legacy of the Salisbury JumpFest, learn about the incredible individuals who made ski jumping a cherished tradition, and celebrate the pride of a town that never gives up. This is more than a movie—it’s a celebration of resilience, legacy, and the magic of small-town dreams. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., admission is free, donations are welcomed and appreciated. There are 120 seats available and seating is on a first come first serve basis. The film begins at 6 p.m.

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION
In the winter of 1926, John Satre a resident of Salisbury jumped off the roof of his shed wearing skis to show his friends and neighbors a sport he learned in his native homeland of Norway. Town residents were so amazed as they watched Satre soar through the air that they decided to build a proper ski run that summer, and form the Salisbury Winter Sports Association. The Association hosted the first ski jump competition in January 1927. JumpFest has become a highly anticipated event in Connecticut and throughout much of the East Coast.

ABOUT JUMPFEST
This live in person outdoor event is the oldest Ski Jumping Competition in New England and one of only six ski jump competitions on the East Coast. Athletes including Olympic contenders and some of the best junior ski jumpers in the United States will compete during this three-day festival that includes the Eastern Division National Ski Jump Competition.

JanetLeave a comment