Stories

Elementary Program Makes Ridgefield Public Schools "All In Against Hate"

<p>This week, some of the RPS elementary schools kicked off their No Place for Hate programs. RHS, East Ridge, and Scotts Ridge Middle Schools have participated in this Anti-Defamation League (ADL) program for years. By introducing the program at all six elementary schools, RPS becomes one of the few districts in the state with the No Place for Hate program in grades K-12. Fifth graders, with adult support, help run the programs, which include an age-appropriate pledge and lessons on acceptance and speaking up against bullying.</p><p>To view additional photos, visit Ridgefield Public School's Friday Newsletter <a href="https://apps.rackspace.com/versions/webmail/19.0.25-RC/popup.php?wsid=6755f2a0d9564b208325c84b49279b4b-31cb0b25c9404f5dbccd57c14f17c700" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><a href="https://out.smore.com/e/gy3d1/y6XrGj?__%24u__" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(28, 110, 152);">Read the NPFH Parent Communication from Elementary principals.</a> for more info about No Place for Hate.</p>

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Nick Donofrio Presents Scholarly Series Closing Keynote at Ridgefield Library

<p>The Ridgefield Library’s 2024 Fall Scholarly Series,<em> The Curious Mind: Exploration and Discovery</em>, has been a celebration of the boundless human capacity and desire to explore, learn and discover<em>.&nbsp;</em>On Thursday, December 5th at 7:00 p.m. the series concludes with an inspiring closing keynote talk by technology industry legend and Ridgefielder Nick Donofrio, titled “The Science, The Engineering, The Art of Change!”.&nbsp;Donofrio will share his insights on how human curiosity leads to innovation and to positive change.&nbsp;Covering topics ranging from emerging technology to the importance of diversity and inclusion, this talk will explore opportunities to change our path for the better and for embracing change.&nbsp;As he highlighted in his 2022 autobiography, <em>If Nothing Changes, Nothing Changes</em>, Donofrio believes deeply in each individual’s ability to drive transformation in our lives and our society.</p><p>The Library’s annual Scholarly Series is an in-depth examination of a topic or author supported by funding provided by the Friends of the Ridgefield Library.&nbsp;</p><p>To register for this program or for more information visit the Events Calendar at&nbsp;<a href="ridgefieldlibrary.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ridgefieldlibrary.org</a> or call 203-438-2282.</p>

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Groundbreaking for The Vault at Elegant Ridgefield, Men's Clothing Coming Soon!

<p>Exciting changes are underway at Elegant Ridgefield! This week, the store broke ground on <em>The Vault</em>, a brand-new space dedicated to timeless men’s fashion, shoes, and accessories.</p><p>Liz Murray Ellis, the visionary owner of Elegant Ridgefield, first opened the boutique at 92 Grove Street on October 3, 2023. In just over a year, it has become Ridgefield’s go-to destination for stunning gowns and dresses, formal jumpsuits, blouses, pantsuits, and much more!</p><p>After receiving numerous requests from gentlemen and their gift-shopping counterparts, Murray Ellis identified a gap in the local market for upscale, sophisticated, and comfortable menswear. Enter <em>The Vault at Elegant Ridgefield</em>—a curated collection of timeless men’s clothing and accessories that blend elegance with ease.</p><p>While construction is underway, a selection of men’s attire is already available inside Elegant Ridgefield. Shop now to find the perfect pieces for the holidays, and get ready for the grand unveiling of this stylish new addition to Ridgefield’s shopping scene.</p><p><strong>What’s in store at The Vault:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Sophisticated sport coats</strong> with pop-up pocket squares and flexible fabrics.</li><li><strong>Pants by 34 Heritage</strong>: stylish, comfortable, and versatile.</li><li><strong>Dress shirts</strong> in vibrant patterns and timeless designs with sharp, enduring collars.</li><li><strong>Accessories galore</strong>, from cozy scarves to sleek shoes.</li></ul><p><strong>Visit Elegant Ridgefield:</strong></p><p>📍 92 Grove Street, Ridgefield, CT</p><p>🕒 Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 AM–5 PM</p><p>🌐 <a href="https://elegantridgefield.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elegant Ridgefield</a></p><p>📱 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/elegantridgefieldct" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@elegantridgefieldct</a></p><p>Discover <em>The Vault</em>—where timeless style meets modern sophistication.</p>

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Ridgefield Restaurant Week Returns February 3–8, 2025

<p>The Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the return of <strong>Ridgefield Restaurant Week</strong>, running from <strong>February 3 to February 8, 2025</strong>.</p><p>This week-long celebration of culinary delights kicks off right after the annual <strong>Taste of Ridgefield</strong>, hosted by the Ridgefield Rotary Club on <strong>February 2</strong> at the Ridgefield Recreation Center.</p><p>For more information about Ridgefield Restaurant Week or Taste of Ridgefield, including restaurant sign-up details, visit <a href="https://RidgefieldChamber.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">RidgefieldChamber.org</a> or follow us on social media.</p>

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Ridgefield Academy/Landmark Preschool 50th Anniversary Gala Raises Over $200K

<p>Ridgefield Academy/Landmark Preschool (RA/LP) celebrated their 50th anniversary on Saturday, November 2nd, at GlenArbor Golf Club in Bedford Hills, NY. Nearly 175 current and past parents, faculty, staff, and friends gathered to honor this important milestone in the school’s history.</p><p>Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors, auction winners, and attendees, more than $200,000 was raised. Event proceeds will support tuition assistance, allowing future generations of students to benefit from the personalized, comprehensive education the school has provided for five decades. </p><p>RA/LP welcomed members of its current parent community and members of the Board of Trustees, as well as many individuals whose contributions have shaped the school’s legacy since its inception in 1975. Head of School Tom Main was joined at his table by former Head of School Jim Heus, Honorary Trustee Tim Birch, and former Board members Jerry Garavel and Dave Heaton.</p><p>Board Chair Rachel Sondheimer began the event with remarks recognizing the school’s growth and the strength of its community. She thanked attendees for their foundational contributions, saying, “We are so grateful to have you here—we could not have made it to 50 without you.”</p><p>Head of School Tom Main shared his vision for RA/LP's future, reaffirming the school’s dedication to delivering a transformative education for every student. He underscored how vital community support is to sustaining this mission and its lasting impact on future generations. "Our community’s support provides a foundation for our success. Together, we are building a brighter future for generations to come," Main said.</p><p>Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed delicious food, music and dancing, and a live and silent auction. Several standout items, including a luxurious seven-night Costa Rican getaway and a Players Championship package, contributed to the auction’s success. Director of Facilities Larry Curry stepped into the role of auctioneer, guiding both the live auction and paddle raise with enthusiasm. </p><p>To learn more about RA/LP, visit the <a href="https://www.ridgefieldacademy.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">website</a>.</p>

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109 Cheese and Wine: Your Holiday Entertaining Headquarters

<p>The holiday season is here, and 109 Cheese and Wine, located in the Marketplace at Copps Hill at 109 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, is ready to help you celebrate with style and ease. Whether you're planning a cozy gathering or a festive feast, owner Todd Brown and his team are here to make entertaining effortless and delicious.</p><p>“Who's ready for the holidays?” asks Todd, adding, “Get your orders in soon. We’ll always try to accommodate last-minute requests, but don’t wait too long!” Whether you prefer to present your favorite cheeses and charcuterie on your own board or one of 109’s beautiful disposable options, they’ve got you covered.</p><p>But there’s more than just cheese and charcuterie. Both the Ridgefield and Kent locations are stocked with unique holiday offerings like Burlap and Barrel spices, Jacobsen salts, Farmhouse Pottery, and holiday panettone—perfect for hostess gifts or elevating your own seasonal dishes.</p><p><strong>Wine Tastings and Expert Tips</strong></p><p>This Saturday, stop by 109 Wine in Ridgefield for a Thanksgiving wine tasting with Gary, where you can sample hand-picked selections sure to impress your guests. Feeling overwhelmed by holiday planning? Gary is also on hand to provide expert advice for pairing wines and creating the perfect holiday experience.</p><p><strong>Convenience at Your Fingertips</strong></p><p>Need an indulgent touch? Don’t forget 109 stocks caviar for an extra-special addition to your menu. And for the ultimate convenience, you can place orders online—whether you're in your PJs or on the go.</p><ul><li><strong>Cheese and charcuterie boards:</strong> Design a custom platter or choose a ready-made option.</li><li><strong>Pies:</strong> Pre-order your holiday favorites with the <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/b074dccb001/47a0bdc7-d805-4960-b756-749870a36dbc.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pie order sheet</a>.</li><li><strong>Everything else:</strong> Stock up on wine, spices, and pantry essentials with just a few clicks <a href="https://ct.menumavin.com/carts/menu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</li></ul><p>Visit 109 Cheese and Wine <a href="https://109cheeseandwine.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://109cheeseandwine.com/</a></p><p><br></p>

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Historical Ridgefield Home for Sale: 27 Country Club Road

<p><strong><u>For Sale: 27 Country Club Road, Ridgefield</u></strong></p><p>"HOMEWOOD" - This remarkable country compound is one of the precious few 18th/19th century shingle-style colonial revival estates remaining in Fairfield County. </p><p>Dating back to 1750, the original pre-revolutionary war home captivated the attention of prominent NYC banker, George Haven, who purchased the home in 1890 and expanded it significantly including a glorious 50' ballroom designed by Elsie de Wolfe, 19th century designer, rivaling the best of her work in NYC. Today, after $2M of extensive and thoughtful updates over the past decade, Homewood is unparalleled in its historical detail and state-of-the-art features. </p><p>Total 12,853sf on 3 levels with 20+ rooms, 13 original fireplaces, 8+ bedrooms, 7/2 baths; pool house with kitchen, full bath, and changing rooms; heated gunite pool and spa; 3 carriage style garages with porte-cochere; multiple porches/terraces; set on 3.22 manicured and level acres. Highest attention to detail: front to back Great Hall with ingenious ceremonial mahogany staircases; expansive chef's kitchen/butler's pantry; over-sized formal dining room with breakfast alcove; plus primary suite with private balcony, multiple closets and 2 sumptuous bathrooms offering radiant heated floor, steam shower, and jetted tub. Vast 3rd floor with additional bedrooms, artist studios, even a cookbook library, plus elevator to all levels in the home. Additional: 9 zones HVAC; 3 zones radiant; generator; irrigation; Glen Gate designed stone terraces, flowering gardens/orchard; all in premier Silver Spring location, just moments to the NY border.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Offered at a new price of $4,795,000. </strong></p><p><strong><span class="ql-cursor"></span>To learn more about this property, contact Laura Ancona </strong><a href="https://www.williampitt.com/our-agents/list/lauraancona" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><strong>Take a virtual tour of the property =&gt; </strong><a href="https://www.seetheproperty.com/469478" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.seetheproperty.com/469478</a></p>

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