Stories
<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job curating a selection of original, unpublished plays, striking just the right notes, at just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>
<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. </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 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. </span></p>
<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> Event Duration</li><li><strong>8:30 AM:</strong> Opening Ceremony</li><li><strong>9:00 AM:</strong> 3K Walk</li><li><strong>10:00 AM:</strong> Survivor Brunch</li><li><strong>10:00 AM – 2:00 PM:</strong> Fun Activities</li><li><strong>1:30 PM:</strong> Luminaria & 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 <a href="https://secure.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=109520&name=event-details&pg=informational&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>
<p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Mark your calendars for an evening of travel inspiration, expert insights, and a taste of Ireland!</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Mary and Jim Villamana of Expedia Cruises Brookfield, the first Expedia Cruises agency in Connecticut, invite you to an evening of exploration and inspiration at their Ireland Travel Talk event. Whether you dream of traversing the Emerald Isle by land or sea, this event is designed to provide valuable insights from industry experts while immersing you in the beauty and culture of Ireland.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Event Details:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Location: Aquila’s Nest Vineyards, 56 Pole Bridge Rd, Sandy Hook, CT</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">RSVP:</span><a href="https://promo.expediacruises.com/900221/900221irelandtraveltalk2025/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> Register Here</a></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">This special evening, set against the backdrop of Aquila’s Nest Vineyards, will feature presentations from representatives of Azamara Cruise Line and CIE Tours, two industry leaders known for crafting exceptional Irish travel experiences.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Why Attend?</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Gain insider tips on the best ways to experience Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Discover hidden gems and unique travel experiences, from charming countryside retreats to lively cityscapes.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Learn about Ireland’s world-famous golf courses, where stunning coastlines meet legendary fairways.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Enjoy an evening of great company, engaging discussions, and a glass of fine wine.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Whether you’re planning your first trip to Ireland or looking for new ways to explore, this event will provide inspiration and expert guidance to help craft your perfect Irish adventure.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the magic of Ireland—RSVP today </span><a href="https://promo.expediacruises.com/900221/900221irelandtraveltalk2025/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">https://promo.expediacruises.com/900221/900221irelandtraveltalk2025/</a></p><p><br></p>
<p>Sandra Whiteley Saalborn, 61, of New Fairfield, died peacefully on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. She was the loving wife of Scott H. Saalborn. </p><p>Family and friends will be received on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home; 9 Granville Avenue, Danbury. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Saint Edward the Confessor Church; 21 Brush Hill Road, New Fairfield. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, New Fairfield.</p><p>A complete obituary is forthcoming - visit <a href="https://www.jowdykanefuneralhome.com/obituary/Sandra-Saalborn" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.jowdykanefuneralhome.com/obituary/Sandra-Saalborn</a></p>
<p><strong>New Fairfield Resident Kristine Greco Achieves Prestigious APTA Neurologic Clinical Specialist Certification</strong></p><p>RVNAhealth is proud to announce that Kristine Greco, PT, MPT, NCS, LSVT BIG, CCVR, CDP, a physical therapist at RVNAhealth, has achieved Board Certification as a Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS) through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).</p><p>This elite certification represents the highest level of expertise in neurologic physical therapy, recognizing advanced clinical skills in treating patients with stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, and other neurological conditions. The rigorous certification process requires extensive clinical experience, advanced coursework, and the successful completion of a comprehensive board examination, distinguishing Kris as a leader in her field.</p><p>Kris, a valued member of RVNAhealth since 2017, has long been recognized for her commitment to patient-centered care. She works with both home health and outpatient rehabilitation clients, helping them regain mobility and independence. In addition to her NCS distinction, Kris is also certified in LSVT BIG therapy for Parkinson’s Disease, vestibular rehabilitation (CCVR), and dementia care (CDP), further enhancing her ability to support individuals with complex neurological conditions.</p><p>Achieving Board Certification in Neurologic Physical Therapy places Kris among an elite group of specialists nationwide, ensuring that RVNAhealth patients receive the highest standard of care in neurological rehabilitation.</p><p>We congratulate Kris on this remarkable achievement and celebrate her dedication to advancing excellence in physical therapy.</p><p>For more information about our physical therapy services, visit <a href="https://rvnahealth.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://rvnahealth.org/</a></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>WestConn partners with local school districts to offer Early College dual enrollment programs</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Western Connecticut State University </a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </span>has joined with several local school districts to offer Early College dual enrollment programs for high school students. The expansion of an existing program was made possible through a $166,000 grant secured by Dr. Stephen Hegedus, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.</p><p>The program is administered by the Connecticut State Department of Education with money from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is designed to encourage more high school students to take college classes. By passing college-level courses before graduating from high school, students can decrease the amount of time needed to earn a bachelor’s degree.</p><p>Dr. Becky Hall, professor of <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/math/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Mathematics</a>, is working with the school districts to bring students into the program. WestConn is working with Brookfield, Bethel, Danbury, Immaculate, Newtown, New Fairfield, and has expanded to New Milford and Ridgefield with the recent signing of MOUs.</p><p>“The focus of this grant is to make college credit accessible to more students, including those who might otherwise not pursue higher education,” Hall said. “Early college courses are a step in the right direction for closing equity gaps.”“The grant money will help WCSU offer more classes to high school students, which will benefit them and also showcase the university’s professors and courses to college-bound juniors and seniors,” Hegedus said. “This infusion of funds will allow us to enroll dozens or hundreds more students who can begin earning credit for college courses.”</p><p>About 200 high school students were enrolled in WestConn’s Early College and Dual Enrollment programs during the 2023-24 academic year. With the grant, the goal is to double that over the coming years.</p><p>For more information, contact Communications and Marketing at <a href="https://mailto:pr@wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">pr@wcsu.edu</a>.</p>