<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">“Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.” This is probably one of the most famous lines ever written. It first appeared in an editorial in response to a reader question in the “The Sun” newspaper in 1897. Virginia O’Hanlon, an 8-year-old who lived in New York City, was told by friends that Santa might not be real. Unsure what to think about this, she asked her father who encouraged her to write in to the newspaper. She wrote in to “The Sun” newspaper and awaited a reply. Francis Pharcellus Church, one of the paper’s editors, wrote a reply that has become one of the most famous editorials ever written and most reprinted. This editorial has since been the inspiration for books and movies and the answer is just as important today as it was over 100 years ago.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I love this piece for many reasons. First, Church points out that there is so much that we can’t see that still exists. Church explains “Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see…Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.“</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Secondly, while Church is answering the question of an 8-year-old, his answer is thought provoking, deep and something readers of all ages can appreciate. I’ve always believed the best children’s books are written for readers of all ages in a way that is appropriate for but not limited to children. The same can be said for this editorial. It is written for a child but really, it is written for readers of all ages while being appropriate for a child.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Third, I love this because the answer is so much more important because of the impact it had on young Virginia. She had a question she was wrestling with. She reached to an adult to help her sort through it. She wrote out her question and read the reply. She was heard, her question was validated, and she received a wonderfully well written answer. What you might not know about young Virginia…she grew up and continued to ask questions. She wrestled with big ideas. She read. She explored. She pursued finding the answer. In 1930, at a time when many women did not go to college and even fewer pursued advanced degrees, she earned her doctorate degree from nearby Fordham University. Being heard and being taught to look for answers, is so important for a child. She didn’t receive a quick yes or no answer. The reply gave her something to think about. Those moments for a child, when they feel heard and validated, are so significant and can truly be lifechanging. The fact that she wrote and read a reply are of course, so significant. She didn’t know the answer, so asked questions and she read.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">While books are so important for so many reasons, reading can be so much more than simply enjoying a good story. Reading answers questions, reading gives us new questions to ponder, reading introduces readers of all ages to new things. Reading helps us grow.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">* You can read the full text of Church’s editorial </span><a href="https://publicdomainreview.org/collection/yes-virginia-there-is-a-santa-claus-1897/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here.</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">* Learn more about Virginia’s education, doctoral dissertation and role as an educator </span><a href="https://newsuat.fordham.edu/fordham-magazine/yes-virginia-a-new-yorkers-lifelong-faith-in-the-spirit-of-christmas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here.</a></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Jessica Collins is an award-winning writer whose column "On The Children's Shelf" has garnered multiple Connecticut Press Club awards and has been honored nationally.&nbsp; Visit her blog online </em><a href="https://onthechildrensshelf.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><em>https://onthechildrensshelf.com</em></a></p>

<p>Ridgefield is welcoming a new festive holiday tradition this year, thanks to resident Cynthia Long, who was inspired by her many Christmas Eves spent caroling at Washington Square Park in New York City. After moving to Ridgefield last year, Long decided to bring the festive magic of community caroling to her new hometown.</p><p>“We are so excited to bring our favorite NYC holiday tradition—Christmas Eve caroling—to Ridgefield this year!” said Long. “This will be a free community event in Ballard Park, and our mission is simple: to build community and share the joy of the holiday season with Ridgefield friends and neighbors.”</p><p>The event will take place at the gazebo in Ballard Park on December 24, from 5 to 6 PM. All are invited to join their neighbors for an evening of music, community spirit, and holiday cheer. Free songbooks will be provided, but many of the tunes—ranging from secular carols to traditional hymns and even a few Hanukkah favorites—are sure to be familiar.</p><p>The caroling is open to everyone, from seasoned singers to those just looking to soak in the festive atmosphere. Song leaders will guide the group, making it easy for participants of all ages to join in the fun.</p><p>Whether you’re new to Ridgefield or a lifelong resident, this event promises to be a joyful way to celebrate the season and connect with neighbors.</p><p><strong>Event Details:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>What:</strong> Christmas Eve Caroling in Ballard Park</li><li><strong>When:</strong> December 24, 5 to 6 PM</li><li><strong>Where:</strong> The Gazebo at Ballard Park</li><li><strong>Cost:</strong> Free!</li></ul><p>For questions or more information, email <a href="mailto:ridgefield.caroling@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>ridgefield.caroling@gmail.com</strong></a>.</p><p>Follow along on social media for updates:</p><ul><li><strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1312986123390844/?rdid=S8O1XMHYLrvfMr5Z&amp;share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F15HEWisiMN%2F" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Christmas Eve Caroling in Ridgefield</a></li><li><strong>Instagram:</strong> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ridgefield.caroling/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@ridgefield.caroling</a></li></ul><p>Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to be part of Ridgefield’s newest holiday tradition!</p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“P-06877-etry”</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Welcome to another "P-06877-etry” feature where Ridgefield’s second Poet Laureate, Ira Joe Fisher, shares his poetic prowess with HamletHub readers - today, from sparkling Main Street in downtown Ridgefield! </span></p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ut5DAtKQqvU?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"><span class="ql-cursor"></span></span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Yes</strong></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">It snowed in the night</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">And December dawned white.</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A soft winter light</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Paints the painting done</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In blue, red, and green</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In shadow and in sheen.</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Piney outdoor trees</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Are graced with new snow;</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Indoor trees stand so</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Sparkling and saying,</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Quiet and praying</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">On this holy day</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Sweet peace might come</em></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">... and might stay.</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">For poetic inspiration, follow Ira Joe Fisher on Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/irajoefisher/#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">irajoefisher</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">And Ira Joe Fisher - The Professional Speaking Coach on </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049350887865" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Facebook&nbsp;</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Interested in honing your speaking skills? Send Ira a note:&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:ijfspeaking@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">ijfspeaking@gmail.com</a></p>

<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>