<p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p>Ridgefield, Conn. (Dec 20, 2024) – A.C.T. (A Contemporary Theatre) of Connecticut is excited to announce the cast for their upcoming production of <strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong>. Directed by A.C.T. of CT’s Grammy nominated Artistic Directed Daniel C. Levine, the show promises to be a unique and visually stunning production of this beloved classic.</p><p><strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong>&nbsp;is a timeless musical that tells the heartwarming and poignant story of Tevye, a poor milkman in the village of Anatevka, who struggles to uphold his family’s Jewish traditions in the face of changing times. Featuring iconic songs like&nbsp;"If I Were a Rich Man,"&nbsp;"Sunrise, Sunset,"&nbsp;and&nbsp;"Matchmaker, Matchmaker,"&nbsp;this beloved classic explores themes of love, family, and resilience. With its rich characters and universal message,&nbsp;<strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong> is an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, tears, and the enduring power of tradition.</p><p>A.C.T. of CT’s Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine says, “Judaism has played a large role in my identity, and directing&nbsp;<strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong><em> </em>feels like an extension of my own story. From my great-grandfather’s journey escaping persecution in Russia to the traditions I cherished growing up, the themes of resilience, family, and cultural pride resonate profoundly with me. While the show is undeniably a Jewish story, it is not a unique one—these struggles against persecution and the fight to preserve culture and identity are tragically still happening today. Our production is a timely one, reminding us of the need for empathy, understanding, and action in the face of ongoing atrocities.”</p><p>The production will star Danny Rothman as Tevye, Jennifer Babiak as Golde, Ariella Serur as Tzeitel, Daniel Kushner as Motel, Ruthy Froch as Hodel, Jed Feder as Perchik, Skye Gillespie as Chava, Tyler Donovan McCall as Fyedka, Lori Ada Jaroslow as Yente, James Zannelli as Lazar Wolf, Peyton Crim as Constable, and Howard Penhasik as Rabbi; and will feature Ashton Lambert, Zoe Mezoff, Sarah Milnamow, Ben Milan-Polisar, Val Moranto, Daniel Pahl, Emily Qualmann, Robert Rice, Leeanna Rubin, Luke Sabracos, Sammy Schechter, Cadence Siriani, Katie Snyder, Ryan Williams, Marek Zurowski.</p><p><strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong> is based on Sholem Aleichem stories by special permission of Arnold Perl and has a book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock, and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. The A.C.T. of CT production of will be directed by Daniel C. Levine, with music supervision/direction by A.C.T. of CT’s Grammy-nominated Bryan Perri. The shows choreographer will be Josh Assor, with scenic design by David Goldstein, costume design by Leslie Bernstein, lighting design by Charlie Morrison, sound design by Jeff Sherwood, projection/video design by Camilla Tassi, wig/hair/makeup design by Carissa Thorlakson, and casting by The Casting Collaborative.</p><p><strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF </strong>is rated PG and will run from Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, March 9, 2025. Performances are: Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm, Sundays at 2pm.</p><p>To purchase tickets for all performances please visit <a href="https://www.actofct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.actofct.org/</a> or call the box office at (475) 215-5497. Senior / Student and Group pricing is available. For more information about A.C.T. of CT, season subscriptions, education programs, sponsor/donor opportunities, A.C.T. of CT’s First ACT! program, and other theatre-related news and announcements, visit <a href="https://www.actofct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.actofct.org/</a></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Looking for a great last-minute gift? Spread a little holiday joy with a Whip Salon gift card – and enjoy 10% off today only!</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Use Code: LASTMIN10 at checkout to save. Good for online e-Gift Cards or physical gift cards in store.&nbsp;</strong></p><p><a href="https://e.customeriomail.com/e/c/eyJlIjoxNTM4NjcsImVtYWlsX2lkIjoiZXhhbXBsZSIsImhyZWYiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5teXRpbWUuY29tL2V4cHJlc3NfY2hlY2tvdXQvMTM4ODAyLzE1MzcyOC9naWZ0X2NhcmRzP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9Y3VzdG9tZXIuaW9cdTAwMjZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsX2FjdGlvblx1MDAyNnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj0yNDEyMjMrZ2lmdCtjYXJkK3NhbGUrMTAlMjUrb2ZmXHUwMDI2dXRtX2NvbnRlbnQ9bWFpbiIsInQiOjE3MzQ4OTczNDF9/a93156fa8e516a8832b37098c08d2e057894d74c3f6b68ba7b830cf10a70f868" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Buy an e-Gift Card Now</a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Why a Whip Salon Gift Card?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-</span><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Universal Appeal</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Whip Salon gift cards never expire and can be redeemed at any location for any service – from blowouts to cuts and color, as well as any of our retail products from Color Wow, Redken, and more.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">- </span><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Experience</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Luxurious vibes, trusted products, and stylists who truly care. Plus, sip on a complimentary beverage while you relax – we make every visit special.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">- </span><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Effortlessly Thoughtful</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Our e-Gift Cards are delivered instantly (or on your schedule), so gifting has never been easier.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Click below to purchase your gift card online. Don’t wait – 10% off with code LASTMIN10 ends today!</span></p><p><a href="https://e.customeriomail.com/e/c/eyJlIjoxNTM4NjcsImVtYWlsX2lkIjoiZXhhbXBsZSIsImhyZWYiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5teXRpbWUuY29tL2V4cHJlc3NfY2hlY2tvdXQvMTM4ODAyLzE1MzcyOC9naWZ0X2NhcmRzP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9Y3VzdG9tZXIuaW9cdTAwMjZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsX2FjdGlvblx1MDAyNnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj0yNDEyMjMrZ2lmdCtjYXJkK3NhbGUrMTAlMjUrb2ZmXHUwMDI2dXRtX2NvbnRlbnQ9bWFpbiIsInQiOjE3MzQ4OTczNDF9/a93156fa8e516a8832b37098c08d2e057894d74c3f6b68ba7b830cf10a70f868" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Buy an e-Gift Card Now</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Have any questions or looking to book an appointment? Our friendly hospitality team is here to help.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Call us: </span><a href="https://e.customeriomail.com/e/c/eyJlIjoxNTM4NjcsImVtYWlsX2lkIjoiZXhhbXBsZSIsImhyZWYiOiJ0ZWw6MTIwMzI3MDg3NzciLCJ0IjoxNzM0ODk3MzQxfQ/75839b328d72b20cb0b72a4c139c51a9c0fd55cce37baad969ad57088dcac99d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">(203) 270-0877</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Email us: </span><a href="mailto:newtown@whipsalon.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">newtown@whipsalon.com</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">You can also click the button below to book an appointment online instantly.</span></p><p><a href="https://e.customeriomail.com/e/c/eyJlIjoxNTM4NjcsImVtYWlsX2lkIjoiZXhhbXBsZSIsImhyZWYiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5teXRpbWUuY29tL2V4cHJlc3NfY2hlY2tvdXQvMTM4ODAyLzE1MzcyOD91dG1fc291cmNlPWN1c3RvbWVyLmlvXHUwMDI2dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbF9hY3Rpb25cdTAwMjZ1dG1fY2FtcGFpZ249MjQxMjIzK2dpZnQrY2FyZCtzYWxlKzEwJTI1K29mZlx1MDAyNnV0bV9jb250ZW50PW1haW4iLCJ0IjoxNzM0ODk3MzQxfQ/b87df2c2fa48b7ae223fe225db3dc07200bfaf224a288db032f850953b0d9db2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Book Newtown Now</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Residents of the Greater Danbury area—including Brookfield, Danbury, Ridgefield, Bethel, Newtown, New Milford, New Fairfield, and Southbury—turned to Connecticut’s first&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Expedia Cruises&nbsp;</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">travel agency to plan their 2024 travel adventures! From relaxing in the tropics to exploring Europe’s timeless charm, locals embraced these top destinations and experiences:</span></p><ol><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Seven-Night Caribbean Cruises</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Soak in the sun while visiting four breathtaking tropical destinations.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Alaska Journeys:</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;Seven-night cruises, either roundtrip or one-way, with optional 3-7 night land tours to explore Denali—a must-see for nature lovers.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">European Escapes: Italy and France are top picks</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">, whether through all-land tours or extended cruises of seven or more nights. Italian favorites include Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Florence, Venice, and Sicily. For France, travelers often request trips to Paris and Seine river cruises that include a visit to Normandy.</span></li></ol><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A Holiday Highlight: Christmas Market River Cruises (booking for 2026 is underway!)</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">"European Christmas Market River Cruises are a favorite,” says Jim Expedia Cruises in Brookfield, Franchisee. “These magical experiences take you to charming old-world villages during the holiday season, fully immersing you in Christmas themes. Availability for November and December 2025 is already limited, and bookings for 2026 are underway."Make 2025 Your Year of Adventure!Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, scenic mountain views, or cultural landmarks, Mary and Jim are ready to help you create unforgettable travel experiences.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit Expedia Cruises in Brookfield</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">67 Federal Road and online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Call for Your Free Consultation:&nbsp;</strong><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">(203) 429-5589</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Start planning your next getaway with Connecticut’s trusted travel experts at Expedia Cruises. Adventure is just a call or visit away!</span></p>

<p><strong>Housatonic Habitat Charity Comedy Show Featuring Adam Ferrara </strong></p><p><em>An Evening of Laughter for a Great Cause</em></p><p>Get ready for a night of comedy and compassion as <strong>Housatonic Habitat for Humanity</strong> hosts a <strong>Charity Comedy Show</strong> featuring the hilarious <strong>Adam Ferrara</strong> on <strong>Thursday, January 16, at 7:30 PM</strong> at the <strong>Ridgefield Playhouse</strong>.</p><p>Presented by <strong>HamletHub</strong>, this special event combines entertainment with purpose—every dollar raised will benefit Housatonic Habitat for Humanity's mission to build affordable housing, offer free home repairs to seniors and veterans, and provide financial literacy programs to families within the local community.</p><p>Housatonic Habitat for Humanity is an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, operating entirely through local support. This means your contribution directly impacts hardworking families and individuals right here at home.</p><p>About Adam Ferrara</p><p>Known for his infectious humor and quick wit, <strong>Adam Ferrara</strong> is an internationally acclaimed stand-up comedian and actor. With a comedy career that includes <em>Comedy Central Specials</em> and being named “Hilarious” by <em>Entertainment Weekly</em>, Ferrara is guaranteed to have you in stitches.</p><p>Audiences may recognize Ferrara from his standout performances as Chief Needles Nelson in FX’s <em>Rescue Me</em>, Frank Verelli in Showtime's <em>Nurse Jackie</em>, or alongside Kevin James in <em>Paul Blart: Mall Cop</em>. He’s also been seen in <em>Law &amp; Order</em>, <em>The King of Queens</em>, and films like <em>Definitely, Maybe</em>.</p><p><strong>VIP Meet &amp; Greet</strong> options are available for those who’d like to meet Adam Ferrara after the show.</p><p>Your ticket not only promises an evening of non-stop laughs but also supports vital programs that help transform lives and strengthen the community.</p><p><strong>Don’t miss out on this meaningful night of entertainment. Purchase your tickets here:</strong></p><p><a href="https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/event/habitat-for-humanity-fundraiser/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Learn more and purchase tickets</a>.</p><p>Come laugh with us and help Housatonic Habitat for Humanity make a lasting impact—one joke at a time!</p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In a heartwarming feature on the Kelly Clarkson Show today, December 19, 2024, Ridgefield’s own Prospector shone brightly on a national stage. Celebrating its mission to employ adults with disabilities, the theater inspired millions as founder Valerie Jensen, shared the theater’s journey and purpose. </span></p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vidkAkfFYR8?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Dressed in a shimmering green gown, Val captivated viewers, recounting how her sister Hope, who has Down syndrome, inspired her to challenge the reality that 80% of people with disabilities in the U.S. are unemployed. "It’s so sad that so many doors remain shut for people with disabilities," Val said. Her vision for a better future began at a stoplight in Ridgefield, where she spotted a building slated for demolition. Imagining a space full of light, inclusivity, and opportunity, Val opened The Prospector Theater—a vibrant, one-of-a-kind movie theater that now employs 125 people, 75% of whom have disabilities.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Breaking Stereotypes and Creating Sweet Work</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">As Val explained, Prospects—what employees are proudly called—handle every aspect of the theater's operations, from box office to gourmet popcorn production. Kelly Clarkson tried the theater’s celebrated popcorn, sampling Belgian Chocolate Toffee and Peppermint Bark, delighting in both the flavors and the jobs they represent. "This is sweet work!" Val proclaimed, highlighting how Prospector Popcorn is not just a snack but a means of empowerment for their team.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">During the episode, Kelly spotlighted the theater’s holiday tradition: The Sparkle Awards, described by Val as "The Academy Awards but better." Every holiday season, employees don their sparkliest attire to celebrate one another’s achievements, fostering camaraderie and joy.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Val issued a heartfelt call to action to employers nationwide: “Look to the incredible talent pool of people with disabilities in your community. They want to work, can work, and do a great sparkle job.”</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Stories of Transformation and Inspiration</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Two Prospects joined Val on the stage to share their stories.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">K Mann, who has worked at the theater for 10 years, said he thrives in his role, which spans concessions, popcorn-making, and ensuring teamwork among staff. Married to his wife Cindy, also a fellow Prospect, K Mann credited his job for contributing to his happiness and financial independence.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Stacy, a Prospect for three years, shared her motto: “Don’t let your disabilities define you; let your disabilities inspire you.” Stacy, who is visually impaired, is a Service Learning team member, engaging students in disability education. She is also the cheerful voice behind Prospector Theater’s popcorn jingle, which she performed to enthusiastic cheers.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Holiday Cheer and a $25,000 Surprise</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Ryan, the Prospector’s Executive Director, delivered an emotional tribute, commending Val, K Mann, and Stacy for their work and resilience. “The Prospector is a movement,” he declared, emphasizing how the organization is breaking stereotypes and proving the value people with disabilities bring to society.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In a thrilling finale, Kelly announced that Kroger, a company committed to inclusivity, would be donating $25,000 to support The Prospector’s mission. An elf dashed onstage with an oversized check, drawing cheers, smiles, and tears of joy from the audience and Prospects alike.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Prospector’s feature closed out the hour-long episode in grand style, leaving viewers inspired by its sparkle-filled message.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Watch the Full Segment</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Relive the magic by watching the full episode on</span><a href="https://www.nbc.com/the-kelly-clarkson-show/video/white-christmas-by-jonathan-mcreynolds-kelly-clarkson-show-cameo-oke/ACCN492421899" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> The Kelly Clarkson Show</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Visit the Prospector at</span><a href="https://www.prospectortheater.org/home" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> prospectortheater.org</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> to learn more about its mission, popcorn, and ongoing efforts to change the world, one sparkle at a time.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">*Image courtesy The Prospector</span></p>

<p>Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is directing U.S. and Connecticut flags lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, December 14, 2024, in remembrance of the twenty children and six adults who were killed twelve years ago in the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“The tragedy that occurred on this day twelve years ago is one of the most horrific and heartbreaking events in Connecticut history, and we owe it to those we lost, as well as their families and loved ones, to keep their memory alive by rededicating ourselves to being sources of love, healing, joy, and humanity, not just on this anniversary but every day,”&nbsp;<strong>Governor Lamont said.</strong> “I continue to pray for the survivors and the families and friends of those who were killed that they are blessed with peace and love. Our hearts will forever be with the twenty gentle young children and six courageous and devoted educators we lost on this day.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In accordance with the directive, flags will be at half-staff on the Connecticut State Capitol building and all other state-operated buildings, grounds, and facilities statewide. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, and any other private entities and government subdivisions are encouraged to lower their flags for this same duration of time. Since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered.</p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Connecticut Remembers</strong></p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Charlotte Bacon, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Daniel Barden, 7</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Olivia Engel, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Josephine Gay, 7</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Dylan Hockley, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Madeleine Hsu, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Catherine Hubbard, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Chase Kowalski, 7</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Jesse Lewis, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Ana Márquez-Greene, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">James Mattioli, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Grace McDonnell, 7</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Emilie Parker, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Jack Pinto, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Noah Pozner, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Caroline Previdi, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Jessica Rekos, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Avielle Richman, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Benjamin Wheeler, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Allison Wyatt, 6</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Rachel D'Avino, 29 (behavior therapist)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Dawn Lafferty Hochsprung, 47 (principal)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Anne Marie Murphy, 52 (special education teacher)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Lauren Rousseau, 30 (teacher)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Mary Sherlach, 56 (school psychologist)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Victoria Leigh Soto, 27 (teacher)</li></ul><p><br></p>