<p>Pamela Wilcox Harrington (Pam), age 77, of Vero Beach, Florida and Indian Beach, Delaware, died peacefully on Monday, December 16, 2024. She was the loving wife of Joseph&nbsp;S. Harrington Jr. (Jay).&nbsp;Pam was born on March 12, 1947, in Middletown, CT to the late Stedman S. Wilcox and June A. Wilcox.</p><p>Pam grew up in Clinton, CT where she was a graduate of The Morgan School. She was a two-sport varsity athlete and later inducted as a member of the Morgan Legends Group and the Morgan Sports Hall of Fame. She loved dancing ballet through high school, modern dance in college, and tap as an adult.&nbsp;Pam received her Bachelor of Arts from MacMurray College, where she was also a four-year varsity athlete and&nbsp;her Master's in Education from Western Connecticut State University.&nbsp;</p><p>Pam spent 38 years teaching physical education in Ridgefield, CT at Farmingville Elementary School, East Ridge Middle School, and Branchville Elementary School. She loved working with children and was known for her creative games and activities. Pam was ahead of her time and introduced cooperative games in her classes and incorporated classroom lessons with activities in gym class. She loved to think big and always organized and ran her signature, annual, school-wide field day at the end of each school year. For her final year at Branchville, the entire school put together a surprise flash mob dance in the middle of that field day to celebrate her&nbsp;retirement.&nbsp;The commemorative neon yellow t-shirts fittingly marked the day with “Mrs. Harrington Rocks” on the back.</p><p>In addition to her love of teaching, Pam was passionate about her various creative outlets. She excelled at basket making and rug hooking which kept her hands busy and happy. She also delighted in making her own chocolates, hot fudge sauce, beach plum jelly, and Bailey’s Irish cream for the holidays. Her family eagerly awaited her homemade applesauce each fall with just the right amount of sugar and spice.</p><p>Pam was the beloved mother of Elizabeth (David) Etzbach, adored grandmother of Parker, Reid, and Austin, loving sister of Wende-Leigh (William) Ayers and Sharrie (James) Finn and sister-in-law Joanne (Porter) Speakman, fond cousin, aunt, great-aunt, and friend to many.</p><p>There will be a Celebration of Life Service held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church, 207 Main Street. Ridgefield, CT.&nbsp;Interment will take place privately.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001&nbsp;<a href="https://alzfdn.org/donate/.%C2%A0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: transparent;">https://alzfdn.org/donate/.&nbsp;</a></p><p>Kane Funeral Home, Ridgefield is in care of arrangements.</p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(8, 8, 9);">The Ridgefield Police would like to publicly welcome our newest Officer: Sophia Cotroneo badge #228 who was sworn in this morning, during a ceremony held at Police Headquarters. Ofc. Cotroneo will start the Connecticut Police Academy in Meriden, CT on January 3rd., which she will attend for approximately six months. She will then start her Field Training Program in Ridgefield, once the academy is complete. We wish Officer Cotroneo the best of luck and look forward to seeing her back in Ridgefield soon.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(8, 8, 9);">Learn more by visiting Ridgefield Police on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064419800805" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</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;"> 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!</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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:</strong></p><p><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>

<h3>Ridgefield Music Parents Host Virtual Silent Auction to Support Student Trip to New Orleans</h3><p>The Ridgefield Music Parents are hosting a virtual silent auction to raise $5,000 in support of Ridgefield High School’s talented student musicians. The funds will help chorus, jazz band, concert band, and orchestra members participate in an exciting enrichment trip to New Orleans, where they’ll have the unique opportunity to learn and perform with local schools and the New Orleans Historical Society.</p><p><strong>Visit the auction site at </strong><a href="https://www.32auctions.com/SilentNightAuction4NOLA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Silent Night Auction for NOLA</strong></a><strong> and place your bids today.</strong></p><p>This cultural and educational experience will allow students to deepen their musical knowledge while connecting with the rich heritage of one of America’s most iconic music cities.</p><p>Proceeds from the auction will cover critical expenses such as airfare, hotel accommodations, transportation, and meals. Every dollar raised will directly benefit the students and help make this trip a reality.</p><p>The virtual auction runs through <strong>Sunday, December 22, 2024</strong>. Bid on a variety of exciting items and experiences while supporting Ridgefield High School’s music programs.</p><p><strong>How to Participate</strong></p><p>Visit the auction site at <a href="https://www.32auctions.com/SilentNightAuction4NOLA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Silent Night Auction for NOLA</a> and place your bids today.</p><p>Let’s come together to help these young musicians hit the right notes—your support will make all the difference!</p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This weekend is the final Third Saturday of 2024 at The Aldrich! As always, admission on Third Saturdays is free and hours are 10am to 5pm.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Explore The Aldrich’s current exhibitions with a Museum Educator during an All Ages Discover Tour at 1pm. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Pre-registration is encouraged.&nbsp; Learn more </span><a href="https://thealdrich.org/events" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://thealdrich.org/events</a> </p><p>The Aldrich is located at 258 Main Street in Ridgefield.</p><p><br></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Breaking Stereotypes and Creating Sweet Work</span></h3><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Stories of Transformation and Inspiration</span></h3><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Two Prospects joined Val on the stage to share their stories.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Holiday Cheer and a $25,000 Surprise</span></h3><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Watch the Full Segment</span></h3><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> The Kelly Clarkson Show</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit the Prospector at</span><a href="https://www.prospectortheater.org/home" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> prospectortheater.org</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> to learn more about its mission, popcorn, and ongoing efforts to change the world, one sparkle at a time.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">*Image courtesy The Prospector</span></p>