The Ridgefield Playhouse will recognize Autism Awareness this April with a FREE screening of Little Man Tate on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 7:30pm. 

The screening is part of their Diversity Film Series, courtesy of the Aquarion Water Company, as well as the Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series. 

Originally released in 1991, Little Man Tate is Jodie Foster’s directorial debut starring Adam Hann-Byrd as Fred Tate, a seven-year old child prodigy who struggles in social settings and is largely implied to have Autism. The story touches upon growth pains, the pressures of being a gifted child, and the difficulties faced in finding familiarity in your peers when you are considered different. The film also stars Harry Connick Jr. and the director herself, Jodie Foster. See the film back on the big screen in recognition of Autism Awareness Day!

After the screening, entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington goes Beyond the Story with two very special guests: Suellen Inwood, Director of Easton Country Day School and Ridgefield Playhouse usher, Alex Fischetti who is an independent adult living on the autism spectrum. During this engaging discussion, Suellen explains that because learning comes easily to high intellectual students, they may not learn how to problem solve because they’re not challenged in ways that force them to develop those abilities. They may feel disconnected to their peer groups and not learn the social skills necessary to succeed in life. At her school, students get the best of both worlds; they take classes at their intellectual level, not their chronological age, but their social opportunities like electives and recess are always with students their age. Alex Fischetti gives viewers a rare insight into the mind of someone with autism. He likes to say, “if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” Like Fred, the lead character in the film, Alex had a mentor who believed in him. Those interactions were key to transforming him from a little boy who hardly knew anyone, to a man who enjoys meeting people and pursuing his interests. He’s even published a book about his relationship with his mentor called, “The Lonesome Boy and The Blond-Haired Angel.” This interview can be seen following the screening in the theater or on the Playhouse YouTube channel.

With the Diversity Film Series, the Ridgefield Playhouse and Aquarion Water Company have partnered to bring FREE screenings of poignant, insightful, and topical films on themes related to diversity, inclusion and equality throughout the year. Each screening includes bonus content to take viewers Beyond the Story, consisting of a unique interview led by entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington and someone of note connected to the topic of the film. These interviews can be seen following the screening in the theater or on the Playhouse YouTube channel.

For more information or to register for FREE tickets, go online at www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org or visit or call the box office at (203) 438-5795. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a non-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge Road, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield, CT and is committed to keeping the arts alive and available to all.

Follow us on Instagram:  @RidgefieldPlayhouse Twitter: @RPlayhouse
Facebook: @RidgefieldPlayhouse

The Four of Us at Ridgefield Library on April 2 at 2:00 pm.

Hannah Ward, a Lasell University student from Ridgefield, qualified at a regional DECA competition to advance to the International ICDC Conference in Orlando, Florida, this spring.

Ward was one of 12 Lasell students to compete at a DECA qualifying meet against other collegiate teams including Bentley University, Dartmouth College, and Johnson & Wales. The entire Lasell cohort advanced to the ICDC finals in Orlando, where they will compete in areas including fashion merchandising, retail management, travel and hospitality, human resources, sales, and marketing management.

For more information contact: Samantha Mocle, assistant director of communications, at (617) 243-2386, or smocle@lasell.edu

If you're feeling a lightness about your step, it may be because today, Monday, March 20, is the first day of spring! And, it's a delightful one with temperatures inching toward the 50s, and abundant sunshine!

All signs point to happiness: the hotdog stand in full swing, locals dining outdoors, Crocus flowers (and Daffodils too) pushing through the soil, the days are getting longer, - and no shovels lined up outside of Ridgefield Hardware! Yup, looks like we've made it!

In scientific terms, the March equinox – also called the vernal equinox,  the beginning of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere and the autumn season in the Southern Hemisphere (read more in today's NASA blog here). According to NASA, during this equinox, the Sun will shine directly on the equator with nearly equal amounts of day and night, about 12 hours. Throughout the world, the Northern and Southern hemispheres will get equal amounts of daylight.

Here in Ridgefield, we can expect an even warmer day tomorrow, Tuesday, March 21 with temperatures nearing a balmy 60%! Check out the latest forecast here.

Calling all poets (and poetry fans)!  Join regional poets as they welcome spring!

This Thursday evening from 7:00 to 8:30 pm at the Ridgefield Library, it will be an evening of poetry, community, and joy.

Want to share your work? Email barbjennes@gmail.com to RESERVE AN OPEN-MIC SLOT. And please register to attend.

On Sunday afternoon, April 30, from 3 to 5pm, Lounsbury House and Ridgefield Historical Society are hosting a Gilded Age Tea, featuring an entertaining and educational program; a fine assortment of teas and treats; and excellent company and conversation — the foundation of all Gilded Age Teas.

“Phineas Lounsbury built this beautiful home in 1896, toward the end of the Gilded Age, having become enchanted by a replica at the 1893 World’s Fair,” explains Suzanne Brennan, executive director of Lounsbury House. “Today, we host events of all kinds, but we cherish every opportunity to experience this house in context — in ways that the Lounsbury Family themselves would have done. This Tea is such an event.”      

Tracy Seem, president of the board of the Ridgefield Historical Society, agrees, “For Ridgefielders and friends thereof, the Lounsbury House is a treasured and historic setting. Most of us have been there to celebrate special occasions. Yet most of us have probably never been to a Lounsbury Family Tea before. This is our chance.”

Tickets are available at LounsburyHouse.org/Community Events. $25, or $20 for Lounsbury House and  Ridgefield Historical Society members.  Advance tickets only. Ages 14+.

A Gilded Age Tea is being presented through the generosity of sponsors:  Elegant Ridgefield; The Fountain Inn; Stacey’s Totally Baked; The Cake Box; Ridgefield Thrift Shop; and Hollandia Nursery.

A PORTRAIT OF LOVE, LOSS, AND LIFE IN A CHANGING AMERICA
THROUGH THE EYES OF ITS GREATEST FOLK ARTIST, AMMI PHILLIPS

Thrown Stone’s sixth season features the world premiere of their commission of Seven Cousins for a Horse by Tammy Ryan. It is the story of Ammi Phillips, the most prolific folk artist in American history. Born in Colebrook, CT in 1788, he traveled throughout the Northeastern United States, painting portraits of everyday people, including farmers, businessmen, and their families. His works often featured bold and simple shapes, bright colors, and expressive faces, and they are recognized for their unique blend of realism and folk art stylization.

The play opens on Phillips’s return to his hometown in the wake of a personal tragedy. It is 1848, a time of great change. The Seneca Falls Convention is about to call for women’s suffrage, chattel slavery has finally ended in Connecticut, and there is already talk of a war between the states. But Ammi has work to do. He must capture the likenesses of his cousins, the Kinney family. All they can offer in payment is a strong horse, but that may be just the thing he needs to reset his itinerant career — and find his way back home.

Directed by Co-Artistic Director Jonathan Winn, the cast and creative team will be announced soon.

“We’ve put three years of passionate work into this play and we are elated to present the world premiere in Ammi Phillips’s home state,” said Winn. 

Seven Cousins for a Horse will open at Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance in July of 2023.

• Press Preview: July 13, 2023 at 8pm
• Opens July 14, 2022 at 8pm
• Closes July 23, 2022

Tickets on Sale May 8
Seven Cousins for a Horse will perform at Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance, 440 Main Street, Ridgefield CT 06877. Tickets go on sale May 8, 2022 at 10am. Purchase tickets and view the full schedule at thrownstone.org/events.

About the Playwright
Tammy Ryan’s wide-ranging work has been commissioned, developed, and performed at regional theaters across the United States, including Alliance Theatre, City Theatre, Florida Stage, Marin Theatre Company, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Portland Stage, People’s Light and Theatre Company, Pittsburgh Public Theater, Pittsburgh Playhouse, and many others. Internationally, her work has been seen in Australia, Canada, India, Japan, and Turkey.

Collaborators Include:

• Barbara Holdridge
• American Folk Art Museum
• National New Play Network
• Ridgefield Chorale
• Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance
• Ridgefield Library

When location and curb appeal come together perfectly, you get 113 Pin Pack Road in Ridgefield. Listed for $1,150,000 by Karla Murtaugh of Compass real estate, this meticulous four-bedroom charmer includes beautiful curb appeal and numerous updates and upgrades.

High ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, lovely millwork & perfectly proportioned rooms join a great flow for entertaining perfectly suited a busy, modern lifestyle.

The main level features a spacious formal dining room that can host a crowd, a living room with a wood-burning fireplace opening through French doors to a quiet rear office with a bay window & a lovely view of the professionally landscaped gardens. The well-appointed kitchen includes a large island, double ovens, honed black granite counters, a walk-in pantry, stainless steel appliances & plenty of cabinetry. The adjoining sun-filled family room has a soaring, vaulted ceiling, gas fireplace & built-in study area for light work, while still allowing you to enjoy time with friends. The family room also walks out to an expansive rear deck for a great indoor/outdoor experience. A laundry room and a half bath complete the main level.

The four large bedrooms include newly updated baths featuring quartz counters and new light fixtures. The gorgeous primary suite has two walk-in closets and a spacious bath with His & Hers vanities, a glass shower and a deep soaking tub. The lower level can be easily finished and is currently home to a gym and abundant storage.

With incredible curb appeal, spectacular perennial gardens both front & back, and a wonderful patio, this outdoor oasis is the perfect place to spend time in warmer weather. Close-to-town, with a great commute location and convenient to schools, shops, and restaurants.

Be sure to check out the video! It’s the perfect place to call home.

A new boutique is coming to town this summer: Elegant Ridgefield

We would like to introduce ourselves with an Elegant Prom pop-up at Lounsbury House, 316 Main Street, this Saturday, March 25 from 9:00 until 4:00.

We will offer a wide range of styles, sizes, and price points for prom, senior and sports banquets, and graduation parties.

Our goal: feel elegant, comfortable, and confident!

This event is free of charge to attend. No need to RSVP.

Learn more about Elegant Ridgefield www.elegantridgefield.com

Ridgefield, CT; March 20, 2023; -- First Selectman Rudy Marconi will be presenting the Board of Selectmen’s suggestions for charter changes at the next Charter Revision Commission meeting on Thursday, March 23, 6:30 PM, at the Town Hall Annex. Also speaking to the commission that evening will be the chairs of the Affordable Housing Committee, Insurance & Risk Management Committee, the Commission on Accessibility, and Planning & Zoning Commission.

A complete agenda and minutes from past meetings are posted on the town website. The first part of the meeting is designated for public comment, offering residents the opportunity to express their ideas and effect change on how our town is governed. Residents may also send emails (crc@ridgefieldct.org) or letters with written suggestions to the Commission (Ridgefield Town Hall, 440 Main St.).

The Commission is soliciting input for charter changes from residents and members of town boards, commissions, committees, and agencies throughout March and April. It will consider and evaluate these proposals, and then publish a draft of proposed changes. Residents can comment on those proposals during public hearings in May. The commission will then present a final report to the Board of Selectmen. Following selectmen approval, residents will vote on proposed changes in November’s election.

About Charter Revision

The Town Charter is comparable to a state’s constitution or an organization’s by-laws. Because it defines the basic authorities and operating rules of the town, it directly affects each resident. State law determines how and when the town’s charter can be changed.

Charter changes run the gamut from significant shifts in the structure of town government to small edits that clarify wording. In the last charter revision cycle, proposed changes included separating the Inland Wetlands Board from the Planning and Zoning Commission, which was approved by voters.

To read the charter, or for more information on the current commission or past charter changes, go to the town’s website. For reminders of upcoming charter revision public hearings, sign up for ‘general government notifications’ on Ridgefield Alerts.

Ridgefield’s Fourth Annual Pride in the Park celebration will take place on Saturday, June 3rd from 12 noon until 3 pm in Ballard Park (Rain location: Yanity Gym) with a parade around the park starting at 1pm.

As with our past events, Ridgefield Pride in the Park is a free event, open to the public and catering to families, with a variety of activities, crafts, entertainment and informational tables geared towards all ages.

For more information and updates go to RidgefieldCTPride.com or check us out on social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prideridgefield/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/781519255874271

Tao make a donation, visit ridgefieldctpride.com (then click the Donate button)

Sponsorship information ridgefieldctpride.com/become-a-sponsor

The Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield (BGCR) community including families, Club members and alumni as well as supporters, community leaders and the outstanding Club staff and Board of Directors, gathered last night for what is the most anticipated event of the year for the Club family.

The Youth Leadership Dinner is a night to celebrate the Club and the youth that make it the special place that it is! Now in its 76th year, the Youth of the Year program honors the most awe-inspiring young leaders who positively impact the Club and Ridgefield community as a whole.

With Mike Flynn at the helm and a dedicated Club staff, countless young people in our community credit the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield with changing the trajectory of their lives for the better. Last night, at the Amber Room in Danbury, BGCR family and supporters had the opportunity to listen to their stories and honor them.

From the first day I walked through the doors of the Club, I was accepted

The Club is more than paintbrushes and basketball hoops; it is the lessons we learn and the memories we make 

The Club:

... is my second family

... represents kindness and safety

... helped shape who I am today and I'm forever grateful

... taught me invaluable life skills that I have been able to use when leading and implementing projects to give back to the community

... taught me that the power of self-love creates happiness

... is a place where I learn to do the right thing and give back to the community

... has taught me that limits are only in your mind

... helped me become the best version of myself

Character and Leadership awards preceded the mainstage event of the evening - naming the 2023 Youth of the Year, and Junior Youth of the Year. 

Annie Cozens, 2020 Youth of the Year and Club staff member had the honor of awarding Ridgefield High School sophomore Sophia Murray with the esteemed Junior Youth of the Year award. Introduced in 2021 the Junior Youth of the Year program provides freshmen and sophomores with the training and practice to move on to the Youth of the Year program.

As thirteen incredible Youth of the Year candidates stood in anticipation, Carter Dean, the 2022 Youth of the Year who is studying abroad and appeared via satellite, had the honor of announcing the 2023 Youth of the Year; the most prestigious honor bestowed upon a Club member. 

From an outstanding group of candidates, 7 year Club member, and a senior at RHS, Sydney Rossi was crowned the 2023 Youth of the Year! With humility and tears of joy, Rossi accepted her award. Megan and Chris Couri, on behalf of the Couri family, awarded Rossi a scholarship for $5,000.

For nearly two decades, the Youth of the Year program has recognized and celebrated the extraordinary achievements of local teens. 

We are beyond grateful to the BGCR staff including Mike, Kristin Goncalves, Jeff Goncalves, Annie and Timmy Cozens, and Triston Philip for all you do for our youth. The work you do is among the most important in the world.

Learn more about BGCR here.