Stories

New Fairfield’s Sara Azzi Named Barnard Distinguished Student at WCSU

<p>Dedication and abundant research opportunities have propelled Psychology major Sara Azzi to the top of her chosen field and earned her the Henry F. Barnard Distinguished Student Award.</p><p>Fresh off a recent research presentation at the Eastern Psychological Association Conference in Manhattan, and about a month away from receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Western Connecticut State University, New Fairfield resident Sara Azzi stands at a unique crossroads—reflecting on her achievements while setting her sights on the path ahead. In either direction, one truth holds: Azzi has long known that she was meant to study Psychology—and she excels at it.</p><p>"I’ve always been interested in understanding human emotions and why people do what they do," she said.</p><p>Azzi, who could have pursued her degree anywhere, chose WestConn for its value and reputation. "I wanted a quality education at an affordable price. I was also influenced by my older sister who absolutely loved WestConn’s Psychology Department," she explained.</p><p>It didn’t take long for her to discover why. She joined the Psychology Student Association immediately and served as president during her sophomore and junior years. She was inducted into Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, in her sophomore year and now serves as the chapter’s president.</p><p>Her honors are numerous: Outstanding New Student in Psychology (2023), Outstanding Junior in Psychology (2024), and Outstanding Senior in Psychology (2025). She received the Willerman Memorial Award, given to an advanced Psychology major showing promise of significant contributions to the field. Additional accolades include induction into the National Society of Leadership and Success (2022), the John H. Hogan Endowed Scholarship (2023–24), Veronica Hagman Memorial Scholarship (2024–25), Western Research Day Provost’s Award (2024), a Sigma Xi Student Research Award nomination (2024), the Macricostas School of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Award (2025), and the distinguished Henry F. Barnard Award (2025). Her GPA: 3.95</p><p>Beyond her academic pursuits, Azzi has been an active member of the campus community. She participated in the Rotaract Club during her sophomore and junior years, worked as an office assistant in the university’s Alumni Relations Office, and currently serves as a Peer Leader in the Career Success Center. She is also a teaching assistant for PSY230.</p><p>Because of her campus involvement and growing reputation, she was invited to a WCSU Foundation event by the Dean of the Macricostas School of Arts and Sciences. "At the event, I met WestConn benefactor Deno Macricostas, who owns Photronics, a worldwide leader in photomask products and services," Azzi said. That meeting led to an internship and seasonal employment in Photronics’ Human Resources Department for two years.</p><p>But for Azzi, the most meaningful aspect of her college experience has been the opportunity to conduct professional-level psychological research.</p><p>"I work in two labs: the Vision &amp; Cognition Lab run by Professor of Psychology Dr. Bernie Gee, and the Neuropsychology Lab at Nuvance through an opportunity provided by Professor of Psychology Dr. Mary Murphy," she said. Azzi presented her research on spatial reasoning at the Eastern Psychological Association Conference in Philadelphia in 2023, and this year shared a study of student perspectives on online courses at the same conference in Manhattan—both conducted with Dr. Gee. Her presentation on spatial reasoning earned the Provost’s Award at Western Research Day.</p><p>At Nuvance, Azzi and fellow student Kylie Moody are the first undergraduate students to conduct research in the Neuropsychology Lab. "Since the beginning of the fall semester, we’ve been working with the computer science team to create an AI model that assesses driving ability in individuals with cognitive impairments," she explained. "Currently, there’s a year-long wait to be seen in Nuvance’s Neuropsych unit. Our goal is to reduce that timeframe by developing a tool that can reliably administer and score cognitive assessments."</p><p>Azzi sees these research presentations and experiences as crucial stepping stones to her future.</p><p>"When you want a career in research, presenting at conferences is a big part of it," she said. "Most undergraduates don’t get that chance. It’s been incredible to attend a professional conference like the EPA, surrounded by Ph.D.-level researchers. I’ve had the chance to learn, connect, and grow."</p><p>Dr. Gee, her mentor, offered high praise: "Sara is a mature student with natural leadership qualities. From her very first year at WestConn, she has elevated the campus. I think her greatest gifts are connecting with people and solving problems. She’ll continue to excel in anything she chooses to do."</p><p>Now, with graduation approaching, Azzi is focused on the road ahead. She’s applying for research positions at Yale University’s Department of Psychiatry with an eye on a funded Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Her research interests include innovative therapies for depression and early interventions for psychosis and schizophrenia.</p><p>"Clinical Psychology Ph.D. programs can be even harder to get into than med school," she said. But she is undeterred.</p><p>"The Psychology faculty at WestConn are the most supportive people I know in terms of personal and career development," she said. "Dr. Gee hired me as a freshman to work in his lab—which is unheard of—but he saw something in me and took a chance."</p><p>As she prepares to graduate debt-free, Azzi is grateful for the path she’s taken—and the people and possibilities that have shaped her journey.</p>

Read More
Sip & Stroll Kentucky Derby Style May 3rd!

<p>Dust off your derby hats from your closet and</p><p>Sip &amp; Stroll along the sidewalks in New Fairfield. </p><p>Sponsored by New Fairfield Parks &amp; Recreation</p><p>&nbsp;Saturday, May 3rd</p><p>4pm-8pm</p><p>Be sure to wear derby best (bold, bright, and floral). Music provided by the Snake Dog Band</p><p><br></p><p>$30.pp (age 21&amp; up) includes a specialty glass &amp; map of participating businesses.</p><p>Glasses are limited pre-registration is recommended</p><p>Online registration opens on April 3rd</p><p>use the QR code in the flyer to register or call</p><p>203-312-5633</p><p>With your paid glass, visit the businesses listed on your map for a sample of their complimentary</p><p>offerings.</p><p><br></p><p>Glasses are limited for this event and may sell out!</p><p><br></p><p>Walk-in on May 3rd glasses are: $35.pp</p><p><br></p><p>Pick up your glass &amp; map at New Fairfield Town Hall, 4 Brush Hill Rd. between 4 &amp; 6 pm.&nbsp;</p>

Read More
Danbury’s Musicals at Richter Announces Auditions

<p class="ql-align-justify">Musicals at Richter (MAR), the longest-running outdoor theater in Connecticut now in its 41st season, will hold 2025 season open auditions for high school (16 and up), college and adult performers Thursday, April 10 (<strong>MAR alumni by appointment only</strong>), Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13, at the Ridgefield Theater Barn, 37 Halpin Lane, in Ridgefield. A separate audition session for younger performers (ages 8-15) will be held on Saturday morning, April 13 at the same location.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">The main stage season kicks off with “Evita” (July 5-19), Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s blockbuster musical about the meteoric rise of Argentina’s Eva Peron. Set in Argentina between 1934-1952, the Tony-winning musical follows Eva Duarte on her journey from poor illegitimate child to ambitious actress to, as wife of military leader-turned-president Juan Peron, the most powerful woman in Latin America, before her death from cancer at age 33. The score combines Latin, jazz, pop and more traditional influences and features such memorable songs as “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Oh What a Circus,” “Buenos Aires” and “Another Suitcase in Another Hall.” The show is directed for MAR by Donald Birely, with music direction by Andrew Gadwah and choreography by Matthew Farina.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">The second show of the season is “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” (July 25-August 9). </span>Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, “The Little Mermaid” is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World."&nbsp;David Halliwell helms the production for MAR, joined by music director F<span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">iona Bryson and choreographer</span> Melissa Arizzi.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify">For younger audiences, MAR’s popular Fairy Tale Theater series, now in its 24th year, offers&nbsp;theater performed for young people by young people.&nbsp;The hour-long interactive shows, adapted from classic children’s tales from around the world, are written and directed by veteran performer, director and MAR board member Rob Mayette, and performed by a youth ensemble.&nbsp;Performances take place on the Richter grounds consecutive Saturday mornings July 12 through August 2.&nbsp;The 2025 Fairy Tale Theater season includes “Cinderella,” “Hansel and Gretel” and “The Wizard of Oz,”&nbsp;among other engaging stories.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Open auditions</strong> for high school (16 and up), college and adult performers will be held at Ridgefield Theater Barn, 37 Halpin Lane, in Ridgefield for both “Evita” and “The Little Mermaid” on Saturday, April 12 from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM and Sunday, April 13 from 11 AM to 3 PM.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Auditions for</strong> <strong>MAR alumni only</strong> <strong>will be held on Thursday, April 10 from 7 PM to 10 PM</strong>, also at Ridgefield Theater Barn. Appointments for the alumni night may be made on SignUp Genius by visiting <a href="https://tinyurl.com/26z5hh8e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://tinyurl.com/26z5hh8e</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Separate auditions for young performers</strong> ages 8-15 will be held Saturday, April 12 from 10 AM to 12 PM (sign-ups begin at 9:30 AM) at Ridgefield Theater Barn.&nbsp;<strong><em>Children must attend this Saturday call if they wish to be considered for “Evita” “The Little Mermaid” or Fairy Tale Theater casting. </em></strong>At this call, casting will be considered for the youth ensemble in “Evita,” the role of Flounder, youth ensemble mermen/mermaids and sea creatures in “The Little Mermaid,” and for roles in the Fairy Tale Theater troupe.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">For “Evita” and “LIttle Mermaid,” young performers will learn a song in groups at 10 AM and then individually sing the song. Those auditioning for Flounder (ages 12-15) should prepare a Disney song (not from “The Little Mermaid”).&nbsp;The selection should be no more than one minute in length and depending on time, you may be asked for 32 bars.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">For Fairy Tale Theater, auditioners will review a brief monologue upon arrival to read and perform. Auditioners will also perform a scene with other actors from provided sides. Although Fairy Tale Theater does not require any solo singing, music may be incorporated into the shows; if interested, auditioners may also sing a short song if they like.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Other opportunities for young and aspiring performers (ages 8-15) are available through Musicals at Richter’s tuition-based four-week Summer Youth Theater Workshop program.&nbsp;The Workshop runs July 21 through August 15 and culminates in public performances August 14, 15 and 16. This year the Workshop will present “Beetlejuice Jr.” For further details and registration for the Workshop program, visit <a href="http://www.musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">www.musicalsatrichter.org</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">All those auditioning for the mainstage shows or Fairy Tale Theater should visit the MAR website (<a href="https://www.musicalsatrichter.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">musicalsatrichter.org</a>) to review the 2025 MAR Guidelines, Actor Contract and potential rehearsal schedule.&nbsp;Auditioners MUST complete BOTH the Online Audition Form <strong>AND</strong> the Printable Audition Form.&nbsp;Please <strong>bring one PRINTED COPY</strong> of the Printable Audition Form to the auditions, a picture/headshot and resume (stapled) if you have them, and your list of potential conflict dates from May up to the performance dates.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Those adults (age 16 and up) auditioning for “Evita” and/or “The LIttle Mermaid” should prepare selections, one ballad and one uptempo, from musical theater that reflects the style of the show and shows their range. For complete information on audition guidelines, visit the MAR website (musicalsatrichter.org).</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Selections should be no more than one minute in length, and depending on time, you may be asked to perform only a 32-bar cut. Please have the sheet music in your key in a binder for the accompanist with your audition cuts clearly marked.&nbsp;Note that an accompanist will be provided; please, no recorded accompaniment or a cappella singing.</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Auditioners should also be prepared to learn a short dance combination and/or read from the script if asked.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">All ethnicities are encouraged to attend and all roles are open. Please note that positions are unpaid and housing is not available. Show and character descriptions, as well as all audition details, can be found on&nbsp;the theater website, <a href="http://www.musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">musicalsatrichter.org</a>. If you are unable to attend any of these auditions, please e-mail <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">info@musicalsatrichter.org</a>. Callbacks will take place as needed on Sunday, April 13 from 3 PM to 5 PM.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Evita” is presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatricals (concordtheatricals.com) and “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” is presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International (mtishows.com).</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">In addition to performers, Musicals at Richter seeks volunteers from the area for backstage duties such as set construction, set painting, properties, technical (lights/sound) and running crew, along with front-of-house operations such as ushering and concessions.&nbsp;Several positions offer a stipend. There are also internships available for credit or service hours. Interested individuals are invited to email the theater at <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">info@musicalsatrichter.org.</a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">For further information about Musicals at Richter, its season, and volunteer opportunities, please e-mail <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">info@musicalsatrichter.org</a><strong><em>.</em></strong></p><p><br></p>

Read More
Ronald McDonald House Unveils New Office Space by 7B Design

<p>The Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley (RMHGHV) unveiled a beautifully transformed office space designed and executed by 7B Design, with support from leading brands and the design community. The project was made possible through a partnership facilitated by Do Some Good, a communications firm that builds impactful collaborations between nonprofits and brands. In a remarkable display of community collaboration, Judith Heimowitz, founder of residential interior design firm 7B Design, led the transformation of an underutilized exercise room into a serene, functional office for staff. Leveraging her extensive industry network, Judith brought together marquee furnishing brands like California Closets, Stark Carpet, Arteriors Home, Kanter’s Carpet &amp; Home, and Precision Build Solutions to create a space that blends beauty and purpose. This new office reflects both the Ronald McDonald House’s mission and 7B Design's core values.</p><p>RMHGHV, located just steps away from the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in Valhalla, provides a home away from home for families of sick children. When families face medical challenges the House offers an atmosphere of comfort, hope and courage, keeping them close to the care and resources they need. The House has 12 bedrooms that are filled to capacity almost every night and provides meals, laundry and respite services for families during their stay.</p><p>Based in Westchester County, 7B Design is known for its expertise in modern luxury that enhances everyday living. While Judith specializes in high-end residential projects, her passion for design extends beyond private spaces. "I always take on a philanthropic or pro bono project. There are countless ways that design expertise can be an asset to those in need," Judith shared. "The Ronald McDonald House staff works so hard to create a comfortable environment for their guests while they're dealing with life's most difficult&nbsp;challenges. Having the opportunity to contribute to a place that does so much good is something I’ll always be proud of.”</p><p>Photo Credit: Nick Carter Photography</p>

Read More
Ridgefield Theater Barn's One Acts as a Much Needed Balm

<p><br></p><p>The Ridgefield Theater Barn, now halfway through its 60 th season, has two weekends</p><p>left of it’s wonderful An Evening of One Acts which I highly recommend you find a way</p><p>to attend. If you are in any way like me, in this Topsy Turvey uncertain world, one acts</p><p>are just what the Dr. ordered; just long enough to engage me, but not too long to lose</p><p>me back into the miasma spinning in my head. It’s a bit like getting lost in “Reels” on</p><p>Facebook, but in real life, with real people, with other people present, to validate what</p><p>I’m feeling while watching.</p><p>The difference from “Reels” or, dare I say it, “TikTok” is that real people curate this</p><p>evening, and have done so with a remarkable hand for guidance on a journey that does</p><p>helps us through these times, and lowers, at least for a few moments, the self-defenses</p><p>that the outside world demands these days.</p><p>This year’s ONE ACTS COMMITTEE, led by Chairperson Paulette Layton, working with</p><p>Mark Hankla, Timothy Huber, Nancy Ponturo, and Bill Warncke, has done a wonderful</p><p>job curating a selection of original, unpublished plays, striking just the right notes, at just</p><p>the right time.</p><p>Much like a gallery show, they take you, the audience, through various scenarios,</p><p>couched in laughter and smart dialogue, which in a one act, can be difficult since every</p><p>line and every movement and gesture cannot be wasted and must move the arc of the</p><p>story forward.</p><p>Overall, the one acts are well done, with great acting and direction, with many different</p><p>styles and subjects. If I were pressed to pull together a Log line or arching theme for the</p><p>evening, I think I would be most comfortable saying that-In times of change, our</p><p>authentic selves are stronger than we think, and to trust them and embrace the change.</p><p>But that, like most themes, is completely subjective, and has more to do with what I</p><p>bring to the table on any given evening. The magical elixir consists of the talent of the</p><p>ensemble, playwrights, directors, lighting designers, sound designers and stage</p><p>managers, creating the space for one to find the theme they need while sharing the</p><p>moment with others.</p><p>The evening kicks off with “Stay Golden” written by Jessica Moss, and directed by</p><p>Carin Zakes, featuring Bruce Apar as Gordon, Robin Browne as Cleo, Deborah Carlson</p><p>as Rosalie, Marcy Sansolo as Patricia and Denise Hubbard as Diane.</p><p>Ms. Moss’s absurdist comedy sets us up right out of the gate with the entire ensemble</p><p>working well together and moving the play forward with a solid arc of action, and yes,</p><p>I’m intentionally being vague here, because it’s not the gold you are thinking. Through</p><p>the laughter, a little bit of relevancy gets massaged regarding our increased ability to</p><p>extend life, and what that really means for those living it.</p><p><br></p><p>Now I’m going to jump around a bit, since the experience of the curated order is for you</p><p>to enjoy in person, but I will describe some of the stops along the way.</p><p>Two of the plays that hit very close to home, and made me want to stand up and cheer</p><p>when the lights went down, on the one hand, and also made me want to take them out</p><p>on the road immediately because I though everyone needs to see them yesterday, were</p><p>“Right Field of Dreams,” by Stephan Kaplan and “Sea Change” by Lucas Hasten.</p><p>In “Right Field of Dreams” director Danielle Roth, adroitly navigated the material with</p><p>actors Liam Gallary as Timmy, and Matt Donavan as Coach/Dad, which could have</p><p>been taken right out of the story of my life. It was spooky, but in a good way. Add to that</p><p>a ghost of a very famous female baseball star, played by Laurie Schaefer Fenton, and it</p><p>all is taking place in the outfield of a little league game and you have a great little play.</p><p>So well-acted by all three, hitting the beats just perfectly, without overdoing it, or rushing</p><p>it. Impressive. IF only my story had turned out as well as Timmy’s.</p><p>In “Sea Change”, directed by Marilyn Olsen, Craig David Rosen as Dan and Katie Kelly</p><p>as Bobbi, are hilarious as two clown fish. And just as anyone who watches fish in an</p><p>aquarium notice the dance, these two do a pas de deux with such depth and</p><p>understanding of flow of the script it is a pleasure to have the opportunity to watch. As</p><p>mentioned earlier, there is not a breath that is not in service to the script, and not a”y” or</p><p>an “i” that is left to chance.</p><p>Two more of the plays, “Improv” written by Kevin Curley and directed by Alexis</p><p>Vournazos starring Carri Ocean as Ann McKinley, Rob Mayette as Paul O’Malley and</p><p>Sheri Rak as Tina Bradley and then “A Flicker” Written by Guy R. Newsham, directed</p><p>by Brian DeToma with Michael Bud as Person A and Bill Warncke as Person B .</p><p>Loss is a big part of both plays. They are both very well-directed and written. I think they</p><p>both crave being longer than one act. I’m not sure if one act is long enough to give grief</p><p>the gravitas it needs to be able to laugh through it.</p><p>I do not in any way mean to disparage the production, I would just encourage both</p><p>playwrights to consider continuing what they have started</p><p>All the performances are spot on, with one of my fav moments in “Improv” being when</p><p>Mr. Mayotte and Ms. Ocean are speaking downstage Right, and Ms. Rak is</p><p>eavesdropping. Take a moment to look at Ms. Rak’s eyes, and you’ll see what I mean</p><p>about loss.</p><p>–In “A Flicker” Mr. Bud and Mr Warncke navigate the waters of male bonding of shared</p><p>loss and walk the TMI tightrope as they learn more about who they are. Each gives</p><p>heartfelt performances and leaves you wanting more. Maybe another act?</p><p>In “The Objection Seat” By Scott Mullen, beautifully directed by Pia Haas, we are</p><p>served</p><p><br></p><p>Laurie Schaefer Fenton As Mary, and Andela Armand As Kat in a different take on</p><p>bonding and self-discovery They are both hilarious, and have such well-defined</p><p>characters, Although the man they speak of is never seen, it does make you want to</p><p>meet him.</p><p>Then there is the glorious spoof of the New York Public Library called “One of the Great</p><p>Ones” written by Chris Widney, with direction by Matt Pagliaro. It stars Elayne Gordon</p><p>as Enid Stump, with Lucy Manos as Lee Katie Kelly as Jamie and David Michael Tate</p><p>as Hank.</p><p>This one act uses the inherent arc of a time deadline instigated by a “scavenger hunt”</p><p>against the closing of the library and the “greatest” Librarian of them all. What fun this</p><p>script is, while also reminding us that these people, these librarians, are human and</p><p>important, and committed. The whole cast make every laugh their own without a single</p><p>punch line missed or pause held incorrectly.</p><p>In “Juliet Wakes Up” written by Laura Neill and directed by Nancy Ponturo, Juliet,</p><p>played by Lucy Manos runs in with a bloody blade, herself covered in blood having</p><p>awakened, with Romeo purportedly dead beside her.</p><p>She runs into Rosaline, hilariously played by Danielle Fitzsimmons who draws out of her</p><p>why, if Romeo was already dead, she and the blade are covered in blood. Then enters</p><p>Willow played by Colleen White, who is yet another Capulet, trying to cover the tracks of</p><p>the potion that was used in the double suicide/not suicide.</p><p>Eventually, and as one might expect, against all odds, a dying Romeo, played by Matt</p><p>Donovan arrives.</p><p>I will not give away the whole plot, but I will say, that the Capulet ladies, are very much</p><p>post “Me-too” women in the hands of both Ms. Neill and Ms. Ponturo and I could not</p><p>stop giggling throughout the entire play. So smartly scripted and performed. Truly a joy</p><p>to watch. With the insight Shakespeare had of the soul of his time, were he here today,</p><p>He would completely approve of this interpretation</p><p>“Hornswaggle” the 8 th and final play to mention, starring Eric Novak as Cogs, Allison</p><p>Valentino as Scuzzy and Michael Ferrara as Bilges is a classic Pirate melodrama in one</p><p>act.</p><p>Written by James Nelson under the direction of David Fritsch the cast hits all the marks,</p><p>and does a Yeomans job with the script and direction. I will say I am not the biggest fan</p><p>of the pirate melodrama, but that has nothing to do with how this one was performed as</p><p>much as it has to do with having done so many of them in high school that as soon as I</p><p>see a scarf on a head, I have a bit of PTSD from my youth.</p><p>Kudos to the crew, Led by Production Manager – Paulette Layton, with Stage Manager</p><p>– Tina Morrissette, Assistant Stage Manager – Jean Mazzelli, Lighting Designer – Mark</p><p><br></p><p>Hankla and Sound Designer – Addis Engel. Without these folks, the magic of theater</p><p>could not exists.</p><p>Take the time, go spend an evening with these folks, and let go and laugh, and take the</p><p>ride. I can honestly say, you will feel better. And we all need to feel better right now.</p><p>The Ridgefield Theatre Barn is located at 37 Halpin Lane, Ridgefield CT 06877</p><p>203-431-9850,</p><p>Remaining shows are Friday March 14 at 8PM, Saturday, March 15 8PM, Sunday</p><p>March 16 th at 2PM Friday March 21 st -8PM, and Saturday March 22 nd -8PM</p><p>Tickets are $35. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. Tickets can be purchased at</p><p><a href="https://www.hamlethub.com/brewster-new-york/stories/ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org.</a> Seating is cabaret style, and the audience is invited to</p><p>bring food and drinks (concessions are also available). Doors open one hour</p><p>prior to curtain. More information is available on their website,</p><p><a href="http://www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org</a></p>

Read More
Spring Ahead (and Test Your Smoke Alarms) this Weekend!

<h2><em>Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2025.</em></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Red Cross asks you to TEST your smoke alarms as you TURN your clocks forward this weekend. Working smoke alarms cut risk of home fire deaths in half!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 9 and the American Red Cross in Connecticut encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they turn their clocks forward to make sure the devices are working.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to safely get out,” said Rebecca Johnson, Regional Disaster Officer, American Red Cross Connecticut and Rhode Island Region. “Every second counts when there’s&nbsp;a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When daylight saving time ends this weekend, test your smoke alarms to help prevent a tragedy in your home.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Since the start of the year, local Red Cross volunteers responded to help at least 565 people in Connecticut affected by 100 home fires, which account for most of the about 65,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country.&nbsp;</span></p>

Read More
Relay For Life of Greater Danbury on Saturday, May 3 at the Danbury Fair Mall

<p>The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life of Greater Danbury is set to take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Danbury Fair Mall, located at 7 Backus Ave, Danbury, CT. This annual event brings together community members to honor cancer survivors, remember those lost to the disease, and raise funds for cancer research and patient services.</p><p><strong>Event Schedule:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>8:00 AM – 2:00 PM:</strong>&nbsp;Event Duration</li><li><strong>8:30 AM:</strong>&nbsp;Opening Ceremony</li><li><strong>9:00 AM:</strong>&nbsp;3K Walk</li><li><strong>10:00 AM:</strong>&nbsp;Survivor Brunch</li><li><strong>10:00 AM – 2:00 PM:</strong>&nbsp;Fun Activities</li><li><strong>1:30 PM:</strong>&nbsp;Luminaria &amp; Closing Ceremony</li></ul><p>Participants can look forward to a day filled with supportive and engaging activities, including the 3K walk, a special brunch honoring survivors, and various entertainment options throughout the event. The Luminaria Ceremony at 1:30 PM offers a poignant moment to remember loved ones affected by cancer.</p><p>To register or learn more about participating, please visit the official event page&nbsp;<a href="https://secure.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=109520&amp;name=event-details&amp;pg=informational&amp;sid=214742" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">here</a>.</p><p>Join the Greater Danbury community in this impactful event to support the fight against cancer and celebrate hope.</p>

Read More