Stories

Kick Off Summer with Ridgefield’s FREE Summer Trekking Weekend!

<p>Ready to trade your screen time for green time? Lace up those hiking boots —Ridgefield Parks &amp; Recreation and the Ridgefield Conservation Commission are kicking off the season with the&nbsp;<strong>FREE Summer Trekking Launch Weekend</strong>, happening&nbsp;<strong>Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8</strong>. It’s a full weekend of fresh air, fun, and adventures that celebrate Ridgefield’s trails, wildlife, and community spirit.</p><p><strong>Saturday, June 7 – Nature-Packed Fun from Sunrise to Starry Skies</strong></p><p><strong>8:00–11:00 AM: Morning Hike at Pine Mountain</strong></p><p>Start your day on the right foot with Conservation Commission member Matt Sharp on a scenic 5-mile moderate hike. Expect breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a true taste of Ridgefield’s natural beauty.&nbsp;<em>(Meet at the Pine Mountain parking lot on Pine Mountain Road.)</em></p><p><strong>12:00–4:00 PM: Summer Trekking Launch Celebration @ Ridgefield Recreation Center</strong></p><p>It’s a party! Head to the Ridgefield Recreation Center (195 Danbury Road) for bounce houses, games, snacks, prizes, and more. It's the perfect mid-day break to recharge, play, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.</p><p><strong>8:30–10:00 PM: Moths Hike at McKeon Farm</strong></p><p>Wrap up the day with a magical night hike led by the Ridgefield Conservation Commission and Woodcock Nature Center. Discover the secret life of moths and other nighttime pollinators.&nbsp;<em>(Meet at McKeon Farm, 11 Old Stagecoach Road)</em></p><p><strong>Sunday, June 8 – Discover McKeon Farm by Daylight</strong></p><p><strong>1:00–3:00 PM: Guided Hike with Pete Nichols</strong></p><p>Conservation Commission member Pete Nichols leads you on an immersive afternoon trek through McKeon Farm’s stunning landscapes—wetlands, pollinator gardens, apple orchards, even llamas and sheep!&nbsp;<em>(Meet at McKeon Farm, 11 Old Stagecoach Road)</em></p><p>This action-packed weekend officially launches Ridgefield’s&nbsp;<strong>Summer Trekking Program</strong>—a months-long celebration of local trails, free nature programs, and conservation efforts.</p><p><strong>Gear Up for the Summer Trekking Program!</strong></p><p>Ridgefield Running, part of the CT RUN CO family (along with Brookfield Running and Darien Running), invites all Summer Trekking Program participants to get trail-ready with new trail shoes for both adults and kids.</p><p>Enjoy&nbsp;<strong>15% off any trail shoe</strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>June 7th through June 14th</strong>.</p><p><strong>Adventure Awaits!</strong></p><p>To learn more and , visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ridgefieldconservation.org/trekking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ridgefieldconservation.org/trekking</a></p><p><strong>Presented by:</strong>&nbsp;Ridgefield Parks &amp; Recreation, Ridgefield Conservation Commission, Woodcock Nature Center, Ridgefield Library, Ridgefield Running Company, and KAZ Outdoors.</p><p><strong>Let the summer adventures begin—Trek on, Ridgefield!</strong></p>

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The Marketplace for Memorial Day! Culinary Delights, Wine, Margaritas and Gifts!

<h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Happy Memorial Day Weekend from the Marketplace at Copp’s Hill!</span></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">** Find great wines and delicious prepared foods to pair with your barbeque offerings, and be sure to pick up delicious side dishes at À Table to complement it all!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">** Ridgefield Organics and 109 Cheese &amp; Wine can prepare the charcuterie boards for you – perfect for the occasion!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">** Pick up buttery croissants, pasties and decadent breads to enjoy over the long weekend from Ross Artisanal Bakery &amp; Café.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">** Don’t forget to drop-in to nancy O’s for something great to wear or to accessorize in style!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">** Enjoy a margarita and superb Santa-Fe-style Mexican cuisine at Southwest Café.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Ross Artisanal Bakery &amp; Café, Ridgefield Organics, Southwest Café, nancy O, À Table, and 109 Cheese and Wine are located at 103 -107-109 Danbury Road in Ridgefield. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Visit the Marketplace for all of your Memorial Day weekend needs!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Learn more </span><a href="http://www.themarketplaceatcoppshill.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">www.themarketplaceatcoppshill.com</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;</span></p><p><br></p>

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Celebrate Ira Joe Fisher as Ridgefield’s Citizen of the Year on June 18!

<p><strong>Celebrate Ira Joe Fisher as Ridgefield’s Citizen of the Year on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | 6:00 PM at Silver Spring Country Club</strong></p><p>Ridgefield is a town rich in history, culture, and community spirit—and few embody those qualities more fully than Ira Joe Fisher. A beloved resident, Ira Joe has made an indelible mark on our town through his warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to enriching the lives of those around him.</p><p>A gifted communicator and storyteller, Ira Joe first became a familiar face as a television weathercaster and broadcaster, bringing his signature charm and enthusiasm to audiences across the country. But beyond his impressive career, it is his deep love for Ridgefield and its people that sets him apart.</p><p>For years, Ira Joe has lent his talents to local organizations, using his voice to charitable causes, educational initiatives, and the arts. Whether emceeing community events, mentoring young minds, or sharing his ion for poetry and literature, he has been a steadfast advocate for creativity and learning. His engaging personality and generosity of spirit have inspired countless residents, making Ridgefield a more connected and vibrant place.</p><p>It is with immense gratitude that Ridgefield Rotary honors Ira Joe Fisher as <strong>Ridgefield’s Citizen of the Year for 2025</strong>, celebrating his contributions, his kindness, and the lasting impact he continues to have on our community.</p><p>Please us in congratulating Ira on this tremendous honor on <strong>Wednesday, June 18th at Silver Spring Country Club</strong>. </p><p>Purchase tickets <a href="https://ridgefieldrotary.org/citizen-of-the-year" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://ridgefieldrotary.org/citizen-of-the-year/</a></p>

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Memorial Day Parade in Ridgefield Features 6 Marching Bands, 1,500 Participants!

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Ridgefield’s Annual Memorial Day Parade is scheduled to start at 11:30am on Monday, May 26 from the Jesse Lee Memorial Church, marching down Main Street ending in Ballard Park.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Grand Marshal of the parade is Capt. Frank Casey. Capt. Casey is a decorated Vietnam veteran who served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He will be the main speaker at the closing ceremony in Ballard Park at the end of the parade.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">This year’s parade features six marching bands, numerous floats, and vehicles as well as an estimated 1500 marching participants. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The parade will begin with a short wreath-laying ceremony at the monument in front of Jesse Lee, concluding with a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The parade ends in Ballard Park with a closing ceremony. The ceremony features short speeches by our honored guests, the Grand Marshal and patriotic music. All are invited to attend this ceremony, and we thank you for your in making this parade one that truly honors those who gave their lives for our freedom.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">*Image by HamletHub</span></p>

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The Children's Business Fair in Ridgefield on Sunday, June 1!

<p>The Children's Business Fair is coming! Mark Your Calendars for Sunday, June 1 from 9:30 to 11:30 am at the Boys &amp; Girls Club of Ridgefield for a morning of fun and inspiration!</p><p><span style="color: rgb(38, 40, 42);"> us in ing a group of incredible middle school entrepreneurs and raising funds for a great cause at our Children’s Business Fair</span>!</p><p>These young innovators have been working hard to bring their business ideas to life — from handmade crafts and creative services to second-hand treasures and unique inventory finds, they’re ready to impress you with their ion, creativity, and hustle. Please bring cash — every dollar makes a difference and goes toward ing both these young entrepreneurs and a charitable cause.</p><p>Bring your kids, bring your friends, and come celebrate youth entrepreneurship in action. We can’t wait to see you there!</p><p><em>Sponsored by: Zeck Law Offices, LLC</em></p>

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Ridgefield Playhouse's Inaugural Town Party Unites In Community Celebration

<p><strong>RIDGEFIELD, CT (May 21, 2025)</strong> — Ridgefield Playhouse proudly announces the success of its first-ever Ridgefield Town Party, held on Sunday, May 18, 2025. This free celebration brought together more than 1,500 Ridgefield residents including First Selectperson Rudy Marconi and Playhouse founder Barbara Manners as well as 16 Ridgefield businesses and non-profit organizations for a day of music, culture, and community.&nbsp;</p><p>“At the Playhouse, a core part of our mission is bringing people together through the arts—and the Ridgefield Town Party is a perfect example of that,” said Ashley Paltauf, Executive Director of the Ridgefield Playhouse. “We’re incredibly grateful to our fellow non-profits and to the entire community for making this event so meaningful. The turnout was amazing, and we truly believe that when we lift each other up, we all grow stronger.”&nbsp;</p><p>Held at Governor’s Park, adjacent to the Playhouse, the event featured a lineup of Ridgefield non-profits, including SPHERE, The Ridgefield Theater Barn, The Ridgefield Chorale, Prospector Theater, and A.C.T. of CT. Children enjoyed activities sponsored by Ridgefield Academy, while attendees sampled offerings from local food trucks at a picnic area sponsored by East Haven &amp; Ridgefield Building Supply. Attendees also participated in a silent auction featuring over 50 unique items and experiences, such as a Tauck River Cruise and a Dave Matthews Band Signed Guitar&nbsp;</p><p>The highlight of the day came at 4:00pm, when East Coast alt-rock staple Guster took the stage. Delivering fan favorites like “Satellite” and “Do You Love Me” to an elated and vocal crowd.&nbsp;</p><p>The event was made possible through the generous of sponsors:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>Presenting Sponsor:</strong> Michele &amp; Tom Quindlen&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Prime Sponsors:</strong> Lori &amp; John Berisford | Tizzie &amp; Tom Mantione | Glori &amp; Adam Norwitt | Tauck&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Benefactor Sponsors:</strong> Ann &amp; Steve Carlson | Eileen &amp; Mark Cunningham | East Haven &amp; Ridgefield Building Supply | Mercedes-Benz of Danbury | Rachel &amp; Joe Sondheimer&nbsp;</li><li><strong>er:</strong> Cross Private Client Insurance Agency | Lia &amp; Joe Del Toro | Ridgefield Academy | Ridgefield Parks and Recreation | Ridgefield Rotary Club | Allison &amp; Jon Stockel | Town of Ridgefield&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Community Engagement ers</strong>: Aquarion Water Company | Anita &amp; Nick Donofrio | M&amp;T Bank | Sabina &amp; Harlan Stone&nbsp;</li></ul><p>"What a fantastic day for Ridgefield! The Town Party exceeded all expectations—great crowd, lots of families, beautiful weather, and the perfect band to bring it all together. It was a joyful, unforgettable celebration, and we are honored to have been a part of it," said Presenting Sponsors Michele and Tom Quindlen.&nbsp;</p><p>Due to overwhelming demand, advance RSVPs reached capacity well before the event, underscoring the community's enthusiasm and .&nbsp;</p>

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Why Small Businesses Matter in Ridgefield: DMM Pediatrics, concierge medicine

<h2><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Local Business Champion: </span><a href="https://www.dmmpediatrics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">DMM Pediatrics</a></h2><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Meet Debbie Mollo, MD, founder of </strong><a href="https://www.dmmpediatrics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>DMM Pediatrics</strong></a><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Dr. Debbie explains: </span><em style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In 2024, I reached a crossroads in my career. Changes in the local landscape of healthcare and a series of personal events led me to reflect on how I wanted to practice my profession and to truly serve, be a partner in the care of the children and families from whom I have the honor to earn their trust.</em></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Tell me about DMM Pediatrics.</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We are a concierge pediatrics practice with a commitment to quality, expertise, caring and accessible.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Why did you start your concierge medical practice":[]}