Wrench throws a party in the works

Performers will include national Independent Music Award- winners, Kay and Bill Pere, with a long history of social activism.

December is a busy month with lots of parties - including a big one for The Wrench in the Works.

If you have never been to The Wrench, stop in and visit us the next time you are in downtown Willimantic. The Wrench is located at 861 Main St., the former home of Oobah's Deli.

What is The Wrench? It´s a meeting place for community action groups, a free lending library, an alternative performance space, a cooperative running on volunteer help - and more.

On December 13, the birth of the Wrench will be celebrated at the First Church of Christ in Mansfield (at the intersection of Routes 195 and 89).

From 7. to 10 p.m. it will be a feast for the mind and soul, with music and poetry focused on community involvement and social change.

The event is a fundraiser for The Wrench, with a suggested donation of $20, though no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Tickets are available in advance by calling 860-872-6899.

Starting things off that night will be MIRA, performing "soapbox poetry." MIRA has performed at the Wrench before, so here is the chance to enjoy him again.

Also reading his work will be Richard Duffy, a former Green Party candidate for Congress, who is a newly published poet known for his social conscience and dramatic delivery.

And national Independent Music Award- winners, Kay and Bill Pere - with a long history of social activism - will invite us to sing along.

Just Harmony will round out the evening. This inspiring group will offer multi-cultural songs of freedom, justice and peace - reminding us that we each have the power to change the world.

So plan to spend a heart-warming evening with us, and lend your support to The Wrench.

For more information, call Marge and David Schneider at 872-6899.

Posted Nov. 7, 2008