<p><strong>Megan Couri's Mindset Monday</strong></p><p>I’ve been blessed to work and know many children in my 25-year-plus career. We take for granted what we can do every day. Comb our hair, get dressed, use a fork, and say, “I love you.”&nbsp;</p><p>One student I worked with could not take care of herself in the ways we can. Every time I saw her she brightened the room. You can change a room with your body language and energy. Every time I saw this student, she lit up the room with her eyes and smile. Her presence and energy changes moods and makes the day better.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Be grateful for what you can do and shine your spirit out.&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Watch Megan's Mindset Monday =&gt; </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/GfzwO5CG5kA?feature=share" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/shorts/GfzwO5CG5kA?feature=share</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit The Divine Reiki’s website: </span><a href="http://www.thedivinereiki.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">www.thedivinereiki.com</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Questions? Email </span><a href="mailto:Megan@thedivinereiki.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Megan@thedivinereiki.com</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Book a Reiki session with Megan in her Pound Ridge Studio by clicking </span><a href="https://www.noellehealing.com/appointment" 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><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Follow Megan and Mindset Mondays on Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thedivinereikispirit/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">thedivinereikispirit</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Renowned vibraphonist and marimba virtuoso Arthur Lipner is set to unveil his latest musical endeavor, "Mallet Maché," with a world premiere performance at the Ridgefield Theater Barn on Saturday, April 5th, at 8:00 PM. ​Learn more and purchase tickets </span><a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35722/production/1228475?performanceId=11591972" 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><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A longtime resident of Wilton and native of Weston, Connecticut, Lipner has cultivated an illustrious career spanning several decades. His journey began with classical piano studies at the Neighborhood Music School in New Haven, eventually leading him to become one of the foremost figures in the realm of keyboard percussion. ​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Throughout his career, Lipner has contributed to over 60 albums and has toured extensively as both a performer and educator. His influence extends into academia, where he serves on the Advisory Board of the VanderCook College of Music. Beyond his musical achievements, Lipner has ventured into the literary world with the release of "Vibes in Verse," a collection of poetry and short stories that reflects his multifaceted artistry.​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The upcoming "Mallet Maché" performance promises an evening of innovative compositions and engaging narratives. Attendees can anticipate a blend of solo and ensemble pieces, interspersed with anecdotes from Lipner's global experiences, including unique projects like constructing an ice xylophone atop a Norwegian mountain. The program is designed to be interactive, featuring segments that invite audience participation, thereby creating an immersive concert experience. ​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Tickets for this one-night-only event are priced at $40 and can be purchased through the Ridgefield Theater Barn's official website. Given Lipner's local roots and international acclaim, the performance is anticipated to draw significant interest from both the community and fans worldwide</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For those unable to attend, Arthur Lipner's music is accessible on various platforms, including Spotify and iTunes. Additionally, his insights and updates are regularly shared on his Instagram account, offering followers a glimpse into his ongoing projects and artistic explorations.​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">As the premiere date approaches, the Ridgefield community eagerly awaits the debut of "Mallet Maché," poised to be a memorable addition to Lipner's distinguished repertoire and a testament to his enduring contribution to the arts.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Follow along on Spotify </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2aSMN01YPKjF19z72sFOef" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://open.spotify.com/artist/2aSMN01YPKjF19z72sFOef</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Follow along on Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/arthurlipner/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">arthurlipner</a></p><p><br></p>

<p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">The Ridgefield Library is much more than just a building of books—it is a beacon of inspiration, a gateway to new worlds, and a cornerstone of their community.</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">On Saturday, May 31, Ridgefield Library will host the Annual Great Expectations and honor Theresa and Dean Miller with Hope H. Swenson Visionary Award, a recognition that honors individuals who embody the vision and mission of the Ridgefield Library, following in the footsteps of Hope H. Swensen.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Ridgefield community is fortunate to have individuals like Theresa and Dean Miller, whose dedication to service and leadership has made a lasting impact. Dean joined the Library’s Board of Directors in 2012, serving for six years, including four years as Treasurer and two as Board Chair. During his tenure, he was proud to be part of the team that helped oversee the completion of the new Library building and the hiring of Brenda McKinley as Library Director. Both Dean and Theresa played an integral role in the Library Gala, serving on the committee from its inception in 2014 through 2021. Their extraordinary volunteerism was recognized with the Library’s esteemed Paccadolmi Award. In addition, Dean was named Citizen of the Year in 2022 by the Rotary Club of Ridgefield, further highlighting his dedication to the community.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Here, we sit down with Theresa and Dean to learn more about their passion and commitment to Ridgefield Library.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: First Ridgefield Library memory?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Dean:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">My first memory was that the content was good and the staff was great. I loved the original Morris Building section but thought it felt a little dark and claustrophobic in the other areas. It reminded me of my childhood library which was in a very old building with dark wood paneling, which I thought was a little spooky! I was glad to hear that there were plans in the works to build a new, modern library, and was very glad that the Morris Building would be retained.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Theresa:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Going to the mystery section in the old library, which was on the top floor, tucked away and rather dark. The new library is so open, bright and just so pleasant to spend time in.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: You were part of the team instrumental in the building of the new library. What was that like?&nbsp;</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Dean:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">That was one of the reasons I decided to join the Library’s board of directors! I had recently retired from a career in finance and wanted to volunteer with a local organization where I could use my skills. I immediately joined the building and campaign committees, then became Treasurer within the first few months. All of these roles were focused on finalizing the fundraising, working with the town on their support and keeping an eye on the costs of construction. It was a very exciting time to be involved!</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: What do you think many in the community may not know about Ridgefield Library?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Dean:&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I think there are a lot of people who still think of the Library only as a place to take out books. But it’s so much more - programs and courses for people of all ages and interests, digital resources, and a great place to meet. And I would encourage everyone to get to know the staff. They are a great team who are very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Theresa:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;It is so much more than books on a shelf - there are programs, lectures, classes and so much more.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: What is your wish and hope for Ridgefield Library in the coming years?&nbsp;</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Dean:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I know that the Library will continue to evolve with the times, as new technology becomes available and the team finds new services and programs to offer. I hope that the community embraces and supports these changes, and continues to be generous in their support.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Theresa:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">To continue to be the jewel of the community that welcomes everyone thru its doors.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: Favorite Ridgefield Library program, event or service?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Dean:&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Theresa and I are both avid readers so we stop in at least once a week to pick up our next books. But we have been very impressed with several of the programs, most recently the NASA presentation on the James Webb space telescope.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Theresa:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">An evening with Diana Nyad and of course the Great Expectations Galas.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: Anything you wish I asked?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Dean:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">One of my proudest accomplishments during my time as board chair was helping to hire Brenda McKinley as the new Library Director. We had some big shoes to fill with Chris Nolan retiring, but I’m so glad we found Brenda who is a great leader and a wonderful person!&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Theresa:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Serving on the gala committees: Dean and I were members of the gala committee for the first 7 years.&nbsp; It was suggested by one of the initial honorees that the gala be held in the library - it seemed like a daunting task. After spending hours walking through the library with my tape measure and learning the rental company’s CAD software, I helped design the layout for the gala which is still used today!</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Learn more about The Great Expectations Gala and purchase your tickets </strong><a href="https://ridgefieldlibrary.ejoinme.org/galasponsor25" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>HERE.</strong></a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"></strong><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For information on supporting the Ridgefield Library through sponsorship of the 2025 Great Expectations Gala on Saturday, May 31, </span><a href="https://ridgefieldlibrary.ejoinme.org/galasponsor25" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">click here</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> or contact Jane Lindenburg, Development Director, 203-438-2282 extension 104, or </span><a href="https://mailto:jglindenburg@ridgefieldlibrary.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">jglindenburg@ridgefieldlibrary.org</a></p>

<p>Join us at the Ridgefield Library this Wednesday, March 26th at 7:00 pm to celebrate Ridgefield Poet Laureate Ira Joe Fisher’s latest book, <strong><em>The Birth of Snow</em>! </strong> </p><p>This lyrical poetry collection offers an evocative exploration of life in Annville and the enduring rhythms of rural America. Through skillful and heartfelt verse, the poet captures the rich texture of small-town existence, painting intimate portraits of its people and their stories. Seasonal changes, particularly the stark beauty of winter’s snows and transformations, serve as a recurring motif, evoking both the passage of time and nature’s unyielding presence. These poems thrive on quiet moments of observation, transforming the seemingly ordinary into something deeply resonant.</p><p>Balancing wistful nostalgia with sharp, clear-eyed insight, this collection weaves a vivid tapestry of place and time. It celebrates the enduring beauty found in life’s quieter moments, offering a profound meditation on the interconnectedness of people, place, and the natural world. <a href="https://ridgefieldlibrary.librarymarket.com/event/ira-joe-fisher-birth-snow-114304" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(237, 39, 29);">Click here</a>&nbsp;to learn more and to register.</p><p><a href="https://booksonthecommon.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(237, 39, 29);">Books on the Common</a>&nbsp;will have books available for purchase and signing.</p><p><br></p>

<p>&nbsp;Ann’s Place is excited to launch our Model Spotlights for the upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.annsplace.org/all-events/2025/fashion-show" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">fashion show</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday, April 30, at 7 p.m. at The Ridgefield Playhouse. Get ready to celebrate inspiring community members who are taking the stage to make a difference!</p><p><strong>Meet our next model: Ashley Hutchings.</strong></p><p>Ashley Hutchings (@mom_uptown) is a local mom of three, entrepreneur, and active volunteer. Through her company, InTown Social, she creates content for local businesses while giving back to the community in many ways.</p><p>This year, she’s walking in the Ann’s Place Fashion Show in honor of her stepdad, Rob, who’s been battling throat and tongue cancer for nine years. A former country club chef, Rob stepped back from his career to focus on physical therapy. Though unable to eat and often struggling to speak, he continues to fight every day—a true example of strength and resilience.</p><p>Rob’s journey shows how long and difficult cancer can be—and why places like Ann’s Place matter.</p><p>Support Ashley and Ann’s Place by donating:&nbsp;<a href="https://donorbox.org/on-the-runway-familiar-faces/fundraiser/ashley-hutchins" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">https://donorbox.org/on-the-runway-familiar-faces/fundraiser/ashley-hutchins</a></p><p><strong><em>Your support makes a real impact—every donation helps those in need navigate their cancer journey with care and hope.</em></strong></p><p>This exciting event will showcase spring and summer fashion curated by&nbsp;<strong>Elegant Ridgefield</strong>, modeled by familiar faces from the local community. Attendees can also look forward to an entertaining show hosted by&nbsp;<strong>comedian Christine O’Leary</strong>, live and silent auctions, and a raffle featuring fantastic prizes.</p><p>Tickets will be available for purchase through the Ridgefield Playhouse Box Office.</p><p>To learn more about Ann's Place please click on link <em>-&nbsp;</em><a href="https://www.annsplace.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);"><em>Ann's Place</em></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Few Words: A Dance Cycle</em>: world premiere March 26–30 only at A.C.T. of Connecticut</strong></p><p>Prepare to be transported. Few Words: A Dance Cycle is a bold, original work that redefines live performance — and it's making its world premiere at A.C.T. of CT for a strictly limited engagement, March 26–30.</p><p>Conceived and directed by Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine and set to a hauntingly beautiful original score by Resident Music Supervisor Bryan Perri, this one-of-a-kind production is told entirely through movement. No dialogue — just the raw power of music and dance intertwining to tell four deeply human stories.</p><p>Over 90 breathtaking minutes, Few Words: A Dance Cycle unfolds in four evocative acts, each exploring the universal need for connection and communication. From the first note to the final bow, this visually stunning and emotionally resonant piece captivates with its elegance, grace, and sheer artistry. A celebration of what dance can achieve, it offers a visceral, soul-stirring journey that lingers long after the curtain falls.</p><p>Many performances are already sold out, and remaining tickets are going fast. Don’t miss this limited-run event. Be among the first to experience this extraordinary new work.</p><p>Secure your seats now and immerse yourself in the magic of Few Words: A Dance Cycle — an unforgettable celebration of movement, music, and the human spirit.</p><p>Purchase your tickets <a href="https://www.actofct.org/few-words-a-dance-cycle" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.actofct.org/few-words-a-dance-cycle</a></p>