Ridgefield Answer Book 2010

ridgefield
answerbook.2010
the ridgefield press special section
August 19, 2010
2 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut 3
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��

��
��
Table of Contents
Complete index on pages 78-79
History ................................................................. 6,8
Demographics ...................................................... 10
Government.....................................................11-20
Town Officials ....................................................... 24
Schools............................................................21-28 Published annually by Hersam Acorn Newspapers
as a special section of The Ridgefield Press.
Public Services ................................................29-31
Property Issues ...............................................32-38 Copies are also available at real estate offices,
Utilities .................................................................. 38 town hall and Chamber of Commerce.
For additional copies, call 203-438-6544.
Map of Ridgefield Points of Interest ...............39-42
Contents are online at TheRidgefield-Press.com.
Emergency Services ........................................43-47
Religion................................................................. 49 Thomas B. Nash, publisher
Health ..............................................................50-55 Gregg Bartlett, editor
Mary Anne Hersam, Vice President of Sales
Senior Citizens ................................................56-58 Laurie Campbell, account executive
Recreation .......................................................59-62 Cover photo by Catherine Wilson
Children & Teens .............................................63-64 Cover design by Ian Murren
Entertainment ..................................................68-70 Map by David Raabe
Clubs & Organizations .....................................70-72 Please send updates, ideas, or corrections to:
Media.................................................................... 72 answerbook@acorn-online.com
Business ............................................................... 73
Food & Shopping ................................................. 74
Transportation ...................................................... 75
©2010 Hersam Acorn Newspapers
Pets & Animals ..................................................... 76 16 Bailey Avenue, Ridgefield, Conn., 06877
Ridgefield Web Sites ............................................ 79
In Real Estate, It’s Experience That Matters ��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
The Value of Experience Is… � ��
Know How...in all market conditions. � ��
Results...helping hundreds of clients get from for sale to sold. � ��
Satisfied Clients...who recommend me to their friends. � ��
Trust 25 Years of Experience ��
��
� ��
470 Main Street

Ridgefield, CT 06877 ��
203.438.9531 x 331 ��
203.731.1679 mobile ��
nmohler@wpsir.com ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��

��
��
��
��
��

��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
6 History The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
History
When was the town founded and by whom? running near the center of town.
Coastal land for farming was becoming scarce at the turn
of the 18th Century, and Norwalk residents looked to the north What are some historic points of interest?
for new fields to plow. On Sept. 30, 1708, Chief Catoonah, a Remnants of American Indian settlements have been found
Ramapoo Indian, deeded about 20,000 acres in exchange for in several areas of town, some thousands of years old. The best
100 pounds of Connecticut currency to 32 colonists, mostly known are along northern Main Street, at Lake Mamanasco,
from Norwalk. Ridgefield was officially created a year later by and along the Norwalk River.
the General Assembly. In 1714, it received a town patent from The Keeler Tavern Museum on Main Street, a historic stop-
Queen Anne of England. ping place for weary travelers, has been restored and is now a
museum depicting life in the town’s Revolutionary War period
How did the town observe its 300th anniversary? (see below). In April 1777, the British invaded the town on the
Ridgefielders turned out in force for a year of events com- way from Danbury to the sea. Battles took place along North
memorating Ridgefield’s 300th anniversary that officially Salem Road and near Casagmo on Main Street, where a monu-
occurred on Sept. 30, 2008. A Web site, ridgefield300.org, still ment marks the burying place of several British and American
offers pictures of the many celebratory events. soldiers. General Benedict Arnold’s horse was shot out from
A permanent installation is the Museum in the Streets, a under him on upper Main Street.
network of 30 plaques with pictures and stories of Ridgefield Several dozen mills existed in Ridgefield over its nearly
history. They are arranged to provide an interesting walk three centuries, and some still stand on Saw Mill Hill Road,
around town. A printed guide is available at town hall and but are now private homes.
the Chamber of Commerce. It may also be downloaded from The town has been home to many artists and writers,
ridgefield300.org/museum. including playwrights Eugene O’Neill and Clare Boothe Luce,
This summer, the Discovery Center of Ridgefield, an orga- and Ms. Luce’s husband, Time/Life chief Henry Luce. Artist J.
nization that focuses on nature, history, astronomy and art, has Alden Weir’s home at Nod Hill Road and Pelham Lane is part
been working with Museum in the Streets to conduct a fun, of Connecticut’s first national park, Weir Farm.
interactive outdoor quiz. Copies of the quiz and a brochure of
the Museum in the Streets locations are available at either the Does the Little Red Schoolhouse have a name?
Ridgefield Library or Discovery Center Web sites. The “Little Red” Schoolhouse at the corner of West Lane
and South Salem Road is also known as the Peter Parley
Where did the name come from? Schoolhouse or the West Lane Schoolhouse. The school,
Ridgefield was named for the several north-south ridges built between 1750 and 1760 and used until 1915, was named
��
��
��
V��
��
��
��
��
��
��
Overlooking a brick walled garden with

��
��
��
�
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
� ��
��
�� Our
� deli is a world unto itself!
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
�� From Everyday

�� to Gourmet
��
��
so we have the best selection of ��
�� From a casual get
�� together
�� to a
��
�� formal
��wedding, our��culinary
�� team
��
�� brings the party.
��
��
cereals, brownies…a long
�� list of
��
delicious alternatives!
��
selection of wines and beers
�� is right
��
next
��door!
��
��
��
� ��
��
��
��
8 History The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
after Samuel Goodrich, who wrote under the pen name of Main Street, then on Catoonah Street. The current president
Peter Parley. He attended the school from 1799 to 1803 and of the society is Gary Singer. The society encourages historic
wrote his “Parley Tales” based on his experiences at school. preservation, collects and catalogs materials, sponsors publi-
He went on to become a school book publisher and is con- cations and exhibits, and offers workshops and assistance to
sidered by some to be the father of the modern textbook. The those interested in local history. Members of the society can
Ridgefield Garden Club restored the school and offers open also assist people in their genealogical searches. At the Scott
houses on a few summer Sunday afternoons with garden club House, people may access a database of Ridgefield history
volunteers. These are announced in The Ridgefield Press. materials. The society’s Web site makes available online its
research library of photos, archives, and objects databases on
What are the oldest houses in town? Ridgefield’s past. The society welcomes donations of histori-
The oldest known home was built in 1712 or 1713 for the cal interest, particularly old photos, postcards, diaries, letters,
Rev. Thomas Hauley, a Harvard graduate who served as minis- publications, maps, books, or any other documents related to
ter from 1714 until 1735. It stands at the corner of Main Street Ridgefield. For more information, call the society at 203-438-
and Branchville Road. 5821 or visit its Web site at ridgefieldhistoricalsociety.org.
Where did the fountain on Main Street come from? Does the town have a historian?
The fountain was designed by the world-renowned architect Kay Ables is the town historian.
Cass Gilbert around 1915, when he lived in the Keeler Tavern
on Main Street. He gave the fountain to the town in honor of Where else can I find out about Ridgefield’s history?
his wife. Mr. Gilbert is probably best known for his designs For information, maps, and pictures, visit online at jackf-
of the U.S. Supreme Court building and Woolworth Building, sanders.tripod.com/history.htm.
among others.
What’s the history of the Keeler Tavern Museum?
Are there any town histories? The building at 132 Main Street has been a farmhouse,
There are at least 15, at last count, covering a wide tavern, stagecoach stop, post office, hotel for travelers, and the
range of topics. Go to The Ridgefeld Press’s Web site home of noted architect Cass Gilbert. Today it is a museum.
(TheRidgefieldPress.com) and click on the Ridgefield History Built as a house in the early 1700’s, it is named for tavern-
link. You’ll find history articles and old photos there, too. keeper Timothy Keeler, who turned it into an inn in 1772. It
also came to be known as Cannonball House because in the
Does the town have a historical society? Battle of Ridgefield in 1777, the British army fired a small
The Ridgefield Historical Society is headquartered in the cannonball, which became embedded in the tavern’s north
Scott House, dismantled in 1999 and reconstructed in 2002 on wall. The tavern today is listed on the National Register of
the corner of Sunset Lane and Grove Street. It stood first on Historic Places.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
10 Demographics The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Demographics
How big is Ridgefield? according to the 2009 data.
Ridgefield is 34 square miles and occupies about
5.3% of Fairfield County. The altitude ranges from 379 How many households are here?
to 890 feet. According to the 2009 data, there were 8,157 house-
holds, down from 8,421 in 2008.
How many people live here?
The Connecticut Economic Resource Center Town Profile What is the median income?
for 2010 reported Ridgefield’s population at 23,132 in 2009, The CERC profile put median household income at
down from 24,031 in 2008 and 23,643 in 2000. The popula- $137,015 in 2009, compared to $82,184 in Fairfield
tion here is expected to decline more, to 21,828 by the middle
of the new decade. The state’s population totaled 3,497,398 County and $68,055.
in 2009, up from 3,405,565 in 2000 and it is expected to dip
slightly (-0.1%) by 2014. What’s the unemployment rate here?
In Ridgefield last year there were 11,905 females and According to the Connecticut Department of Labor, in
11,227 males. June 2010 Ridgefield’s labor force totaled 11,889 people.
There were 11,201 employed and 688 unemployed for an
Which age groups and education levels prevail? unemployment rate of 5.8%, down from 6% a year ago
The median age of Ridgefielders is 42. Ridgefielders during the same period. The state unemployment rate in
who are between 25 and 49 years old are the largest sin- June 2010 was 8.8% up from 8.1% in June 2009.
gle age group at 7,560 persons, or 16.5% of the popula-
tion, followed by those 50 to 64 (5,158, 11%), five to 17 How are house sales and prices faring here?
(4,850, 10.5%), 65 and older (2,719, 6%), infant to four A total of 120 houses were sold in town in the first six
(1,698, 4%) and 18 to 24 (1,147, 2.5%). months of 2010, up 82% higher than the 66 closings for the
Of the residents who are 25 or older, 10,386 (67%) same period in 2009, “when we had the fewest number of
closings since the beginning of computerized records,” noted
have attained a bachelor’s degree or higher and 2,565 Jack McAuley of Keller Williams Realty who writes the Inside
(17%) have had “some college,” while the educational Real Estate column in The Press. See the full column at The
attainment of 1,914 (12%) is a high school diploma, RidgefieldPress.com.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
(203) 438-6600 ��
��
��
��
23 GOVERNOR ST
��
RIDGEFIELD ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Town Government 11
Town Government
Where are town offices? What are their hours? What is the Board of Selectmen?
Ridgefield Town Hall is the big brick building with an The Board of Selectmen is made up of five members,
eagle atop its front entrance at 400 Main Street on the cor- including the first selectman. The selectmen are Barbara
ner of Main Street and Bailey Avenue. Its hours are Monday Manners (D), Joan Plock (R), Andy Bodner (R), and Di
to Friday 8:30 to 4:30. It holds the offices of the selectmen, Masters (D). Their terms expire in 2011.
treasurer, town clerk, tax collector, assessor, probate court, The selectmen are responsible for generally managing the
parking authority, and registrars of voters. The number for town, including appointing the personnel for the boards and
general information is 203-431-2700. The town Web site is committees, but are not involved in managing the schools.
ridgefieldct.org. They propose budgets, ordinances, infrastructure projects, and
The town hall annex at 66 Prospect Street, in the Richard various policies for the town, and supervise projects. They also
E. Venus Municipal Building (also referred to as the old high supervise many town agencies.
school), contains the planning and zoning, building, health, Selectmen are elected to two-year terms and are not
and conservation departments, and the youth services bureau. salaried. The first selectman receives a full-time sal-
It’s open Monday to Friday 8 to 4. ary. To reach the board, call 203-431-2774 or e-mail
The Parks and Recreation Department is in the Ridgefield selectman@ridgefieldct.org.
Recreation Center, 195 Danbury Road. Office hours are 8:30
to 4:30, Monday through Friday. The center is open Monday to Is there a directory of town officials?
Friday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 6 to 6; and Sunday, 9 to 6. A directory of town officials may be found in this book
Phone: 203-431-2755; Web site: ridgefieldparksandrec.org. and in the information office of the town hall on Main Street.
Many officials, both elected and appointed who are not in the
Who is the chief executive of the town? Town Officials list, are named throughout this chapter of the
Rudy Marconi, a Democrat, was first elected first select- Answerbook. Some officials may also be found on the town
man in November 1999. His current four-year term expires in Web site.
2011. A lifelong Ridgefielder, Mr. Marconi served four years
on the Planning and Zoning Commission and four years on the What’s the grand list?
Board of Selectmen before becoming first selectman. A New England term, the grand list is the town’s tax base
The first selectman, who makes a salary of $108,397, serves and reflects the assessed values of all taxable property in town.
as ex-officio member of all town boards, committees and com- In this state the property assessment is 70% of the fair market
missions. He may be reached at 203-431-2774 or by e-mail at value of the property as established by the assessor’s office.
selectman@ridgefieldct.org. The assessor compiles it as of every Oct. 1.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
12 Town Government The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
The grand list for 2009 inched up slightly by 0.6% to What does the tax collector do?
$5.525 billion, an increase of almost $33 million over the 2008 This office collects real property taxes, motor vehicle
list (which had grown 1.1% from the previous year). taxes, and personal property taxes, as well as sewer use and
The breakdown of the 2009 grand list: $5.18 billion in total assessment charges. Taxes cover the fiscal year July 1 to June
real estate assessments, $219 million in total motor vehicle 30. The tax collector’s office number is 203-431-2779. The
assessment and $112 million in total personal property assess- office is open 8:30 to 4:30 Monday through Friday, and some
ments, which are taxable business equipment and furnishings. Saturdays from 9 to noon.
On the grand list for 2008 there were 9,582 pieces of real
estate in Ridgefield, and 21,324 motor vehicles. Where and when do I pay my town taxes?
The tax collector’s office is in town hall on Main Street.
What is a mill rate? Tax payments are divided into real estate, motor vehicle, and
The annual mill rate is essentially the tax rate, which is personal property. Unlike most towns in the state, which are on
equal to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value on a property. the semi-annual plan, real estate and personal property taxes
The Board of Finance calculates how many mills of taxation it here are due quarterly — on July 1, Oct. 1, Jan. 1 and April
will take to pay for the budget, minus other revenues. 1. Taxes on motor vehicles owned as of Oct. 1 are due the
The current mill rate is $20.40 (up 1.97% from previous following July. Vehicles registered between Oct. 2 and the fol-
year) for every $1,000 of assessed value. If your house is lowing July 31 incur vehicle supplement bills, due in January.
assessed at $800,000, and you multiply that by 0.02040 (the Personal property taxes are collected quarterly, the same as
mill rate), you will pay $16,320 in town taxes. real property taxes, if they exceed $100.
Property tax bills are sent out in late June of each year for
What is the town budget? the entire year. You must contact the tax office if you do not
A budget of $122.7 million was approved by voters in early receive a tax bill. Failure to receive a tax bill does not release
May for 2010-11. This represents an increase of 1.55% or you from paying any taxes or interest for late payments.
almost $1.87 million over the previous year. The mill rate (tax You may pay your taxes in person at town hall during
rate) increased by almost 2%. business hours, by mail, or you may pay online at officialpay-
Of the total amount, $77.8 million, up $1 million or 1.35%, ments.com. There is a fee for paying online.
is for school operations. The $44.7 million balance includes
$30.9 milllion, up $901,000 or 3%, the selectmen budgeted I got a tax bill for a car I no longer own; what can I
to cover general government, police, fire, public works, parks do?
and recreation, the library, and $13.8 million in debt service, a Notify the tax assessor at 203-431-2706. Also notify the
decrease of 0.5%. Some $2 million for seven capital projects Department of Motor Vehicles to make certain it has a record
was also approved. of returned plates. In the case of a leased vehicle, when you
terminate your lease, you must provide the tax assessor with a
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
return of plate receipt or a letter from your insurance company How do I know if my assessment is correct?
showing the vehicle canceled from your policy as soon as pos- In general, to determine if your assessment is correct you
sible. should ask yourself the following questions:
Can I sell my property for approximately that amount
What happens if I don’t pay my taxes on time? (remembering that the property assessment equals 70% of
Taxes must be paid within one month of the due date to market value)?
avoid interest or penalty. Failure to pay taxes in a timely man- Does the assessor’s office have the correct information on
ner results in an interest charged on the unpaid balance at the my property?
rate of 1 1/2 % a month (annual rate of 18%), and a lien is How much are similar properties in my neighborhood sell-
placed on the land records in the town clerk’s office, which ing for?
prevents any sale of property until taxes and lien fees are paid.
In the case of delinquent taxes on motor vehicles, you will What do I do if I think my assessment is unfair?
not be able to register any vehicle in your name until all taxes, Your first step is to call the tax assessor’s office (203-431-
interest, and collection costs are paid. 2710) to review the assessment for any possible inaccuracies.
If none are found and you still consider the assessment unfair
Does the town ever foreclose on tax-debtor property you may apply to appear before a scheduled hearing of the
and have tax sales? Board of Assessment Appeals, which meets in February or
Yes, all tax sales and foreclosures are advertised in the March. Call the assessor’s office for details.
newspaper. Foreclosures are processed through the Superior
Court in Danbury. Can anyone receive a tax break?
There is a tax exemption for the elderly who have owned
Who determines property assessments? property for at least a year, and the town has a program in
Assessments are handled through the assessor’s office (203- which residents over the age of 65 who qualify financially
431-2710). In Connecticut, all property assessments reflect may defer tax payments at a nominal interest rate. There is
70% of market value. also a state tax break, but you must meet income requirements,
which can be verified through the assessor’s office.
How do I find out how much a house is assessed Veterans who have been honorably discharged from active
for? duty at a time of war may file their DD214. If they qualify
A field card in the tax assessor’s office will show property financially, they may receive a deduction off their property or
values. These are public record. You may also access them vehicle assessment. The filing period ends Oct. 1.
online at the tax assessor’s page at ridgefieldct.org. A disabled person who owns a home or car may receive an
assessment reduction.
For details on any of these tax reductions, call Assessor Al
s a f e t r a n s p ortation for kids

KiddyKars, LLC is a service just for the children
of Ridgefield, CT. Owned and operated by a
Ridgefield businesswoman and mom.
We will safely transport your children to all of
their local activities.
Whether to the Orthodontist, Dance Lesson,
Soccer Practice, a Play date, or even school
(everyone misses the bus sometimes), your
children will be taken by responsible, local moms
anywhere in Ridgefield... So if you are pulled in 3
different directions, drive too many carpools, or
simply can’t be in 2 places at once, let KiddyKars
be the extra Mom your family needs.
Serving R i d g e f i e l d , C T
(203) 431-5900
www.KiddyKars.com
Garzi at 203-431-2706. You may also visit the tax assessor’s

�� page online at ridgefieldct.org.
��
�� What are local political parties and enrollment?
�� Shortly before the election last fall, there were 16,126
� registered voters in Ridgefield: 5,889 Republicans, 4,579
Democrats, and 5,564 who were unaffiliated, according to
the secretary of the state office. There were also 94 members
of minor parties including Independents, Libertarians, Green
Party and Concerned Citizen members.
What do the registrars of voters do?

The registrars keep up to date with current voting laws,
maintain the lists of qualified voters, keep the voting machines
in working order, and register new voters.
Ridgefield has two registrars of voters: Cynthia Bruno
(Democrat) and Hope S. Wise (Republican). Ms. Bruno may
be reached at 203-431-2771 (e-mail: demsregistrar@ridgefi
eldct.org); Ms. Wise at 203-431-2772 (e-mail: GOPregistrar
@ridgefieldct.org). Their offices are open Monday, Tuesday,
Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 to 4:30 (summer hours: 9 to
�� noon).
Who may register to vote?

To register, one must be a U.S. citizen, living in Ridgefield
��
and 18 years old or older. There is no length of residency
�� requirement to register. Seventeen-year-olds may preregister,
�� as long as they turn 18 by Election Day.
��
Where and when may I register?
�� You may register to vote at the registrars’ office or with the
�� town clerk, both in the town hall. You may also register to vote
�� when you are renewing your driver’s license. An application
comes with your renewal form. People may also register by
mail. Forms may be obtained from Ridgefield Library (203-
�� 438-2282) or downloaded from sots.state.ct.us.

The deadline for registering is generally two weeks before
an election if registering by mail or one week in advance if
�� registering in person. You may register to vote for referendum
up to the day before ballots are cast.
��
Do I need to bring documents when I register?
You should have identification to prove who you are, such
�� as a driver’s license or a passport.
��
Do I need to renew my voting privileges?
�� No, renewal of the privilege is not necessary unless you
have moved away for a period and are moving back to the
�� town.
Who can vote in a primary?

�� Registered voters who are members of a party may vote in
�� that party’s primary only.
�� Are there voting districts in town?

There are three voting districts: south district (#1) votes at
the East Ridge Middle School; the central district (#3), at the
Yanity Gym (at the old high school), and the north district
(#2) at Scotts Ridge Middle School on Route 116.
When you register, you will receive a card telling you
where to vote. If the card is lost, you may call the registrars of
voters (203-431-2771 or 203-431-2772) for the information.
Sometimes, as with budget votes, only one polling place is
used. Keep an eye on The Press for details.
Who can vote by absentee ballot?

Registered voters who have a legitimate reason why they
cannot vote in person are entitled to the absentee ballot. The

most common reason is you will not be in town during any of
the voting hours.
You may also cast an absentee vote if you are ill or if vot-
ing at the polls conflicts with your religious beliefs. Call the
registrars’ office (203-431-2771) or the town clerk (203-431-
2783) for details.
An absentee ballot may be used in any election or referen-
dum, and may be obtained by filling out an application at the
town clerk’s office in town hall, Main Street. Return the appli-
cation to receive the ballot.
��
Can a non-resident property owner vote here?
Yes, but only in matters dealing with taxation. The non-
��
resident must be a citizen and own property by October of the
previous year. ��
What is a referendum?
A referendum is a machine vote on a town issue, such as
��
budgets, contracts, and major projects like new schools and
town and school building improvements. ��
When do elections of town officials take place? ��
The election of town officials is held every two years in
odd-numbered years. ��
Elective local offices include first selectman, town clerk, ��
registrar, tax collector, treasurer, Board of Selectmen, Board
of Finance, Board of Education, Police Commission, Planning ��
and Zoning Commission, Board of Assessment Appeals, and
Zoning Board of Appeals.
The probate judge is elected every four years, in an even- ��
numbered year. ��
Can I look up old deeds in the town hall?
Records and deeds dating to 1709 may be found in the town ��
clerk’s office in town hall on Main Street.
��
Are birth, marriage and death records public?
Marriage and death records are open to the public. Birth ��
records are not; the law keeps them confidential.
��
Besides the clergy, who may perform weddings in ��
Connecticut? ��
A justice of the peace or a probate judge can also perform
weddings. The town clerk’s office (203-431-2783) in town hall ��
on Main Street has a list of justices of the peace. ��
Where do I get a marriage license?
A marriage license may be obtained in the town where ��
either spouse-to-be lives, or where the wedding will take
place. Both parties must appear in person at the town clerk’s
��
office. No blood test is needed. The fee is $30; the license is ��
issued immediately and is good for 65 days. For details, call
203-431-2783.
As of Nov. 12, 2008, same sex marriage became legal in ��
Connecticut. The requirements for entering a same sex mar- ��
riage are the same for an opposite-sex marriage. Since 2005, ��
Connecticut recognized civil unions between two people of the
same sex, which granted them the same benefits, rights and ��
protections as are granted to spouses in a marriage. All civil
unions converted into marriage on Oct. 1, 2010. For details, go
to Connecticut Public Health section at ct.gov. ��
Where do I get a certified copy of a birth certificate?
��
Official copies of birth certificates for persons whose par- ��
ents were living here at the time of their birth are obtained
from the town clerk’s office; there is modest fee. These are
confidential, however, and available only to the person whose such as the school board or planning and zoning, try attending
name is on the certificate or to a parent, child, grandchild, or their meetings regularly and watch for a vacancy to open up.
guardian if the person is a minor. For an application, visit the
town clerk’s office or go online to the town clerk’s Web page How are board or commission members chosen?
at ridgefieldct.org. Most of the major town agencies are elected by the voters
for two- or four-year terms. However, among the more than
Where may I get a passport? 40 town agencies are many volunteer boards and commis-
You may obtain a new passport or renew an expired one by sions (see below) that have members who are appointed by the
filling out an application at the post office on Catoonah Street. Board of Selectmen.
Passport hours are 10 to 3. To obtain a new passport, a birth
certificate with a raised seal is necessary as well as two copies What boards and commissions are elected?
of a current passport-size photo. Applications must be signed The Boards of Selectmen, Finance, and Education, Police
before the issuing agent. For more information, call the post Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board
office at 203-438-6561. of Appeals, and Board of Assessment Appeals are elected. To
You may renew your passport by mail if: you have it to be considered for an elective seat, apply to a town commit-
submit, you received it within the past 15 years, you were tee or attend a party caucus and submit your name. For more
over age 16 when it was issued, and you still have the same information, call 203-431-2774.
name or can legally document your name change. Otherwise,
you must renew in person. Renewal applications are available What boards and commissions are appointed?
online at travel.state.gov. Don’t wait to renew. You may have The Board of Selectmen appoints members of the
some trouble if your passport expires in less than six months. Affordable Housing Committee, Annual Town Meeting
For complete information, visit the U.S. State Department site Committee, Architectural Advisory Committee, Board
at state.gov. of Ethics Commission, Building Code Board of Appeals,
Cable TV Advisory Council, Charter Revision Commission,
How can I get involved in town government? Citizens Against Casino Expansion, Commission on Aging,
If you are affiliated with a party, get in touch with Commission for the Disabled, Conservation Commission,
your town chairman: Democrats, Susan Cocco, 203-431- Deer Management Committee, Economic Development
6076 (or visit ridgefielddems.org); Republicans, James Commission, Golf Committee, Graveyard Restoration
Carroll, chairman@ridgefieldgop.org (ridgefieldgop.org); or Committee, Historic District Commission, Housing Authority,
Independents, Dominic D’Addario, 203-438-4397. You may Insurance and Risk Management Committee, Library Board
also call the Board of Selectmen (203-431-2774), which is of Directors, Lyme Disease Task Force, Master Building
frequently looking for candidates to serve on appointed boards Committee, Parking Authority, Parks and Recreation
and commissions. If you are interested in a particular agency, Commission, Pension Commission, Ridgefield Arts Council,
Ridgefield Design Council, Ridgefield Prevention Council,
Senior Tax Credit Committee, Tree Committee, Water
Pollution Control Authority, and the Youth Commission.
��
What town officials are appointed?
�� The selectmen also appoint five constables, the town attor-
ney, municipal agent for the elderly, director of emergency ser-
�� vices, HART Board of Directors, director of health, director of
�� social services, assistant treasurer, tree warden, town historian,
and assistant town historian.
��
What is the town meeting?
There is one annual town meeting, on the first Monday in
�� May. It deals with the town and school budgets, and sets the
tax rate. However, the budgets are usually taken to a referen-
�� dum to allow a greater number of people to vote conveniently.
If there’s no referendum, the town meeting can pass, approve,
or reject a budget, but it cannot increase a budget.
�� Other special town meetings may be called when needed
throughout the year. Voters may discuss and approve or reject
�� such things as financial appropriations, capital projects or the
adoption of new or amended ordinances. Any registered voter
may participate. Non-voter property owners who are citizens
�� may vote on financial issues. The selectmen can call special
�� town meetings, or voters can petition for them. All town meet-
ings require that a legal notice appear five days prior to the
�� date in a newspaper having substantial circulation in the town,
advertising their time, place and content.
�� What does the town clerk do?
Town Clerk Barbara Serfilippi (203-431-2783), a full-
�� time salaried official, is responsible for recording all land
�� records, which include deeds, mortgages, liens, attachments,
various contracts, foreclosures, and property maps. The town
RIDGEFIELD PARKS & RECREATION

Your active partner in community, wellness and fun!
• Annual Memberships • Wellness Center
• Deluxe Locker Suites with Saunas,
Steam
Steam Rooms
Rooms & Co-ed
& Co-ed Whirlpool
Whirlpool • Indoor
Indoor Pool
Pool
• Lap Swim Membership • Gymnasium
• Littleville Pre-School
- Children 2 - 5 years old will
explore nature, art, language
development, and so much more with
caring teachers and fun activities
• Swim Lessons
- Parent/Child classes for children 6
months - 3 years old, Pre-School
Lessons for children 4 - 5 years old,
Learn to Swim Lessons for children 6 -
12 years old, and Adult Lessons
for anyone 13 years and older
• "After the Bell" and Children's Recreation Programs

- Classes for children in Grades K - 8 that extend the school day with fun
and interesting classes from art to technology; something for every child!
- Tennis - Karate - Dance - Sewing - Yoga - Chess - Computer
• Graham Dickinson SPIRIT Skate Park
- Lessons, Camps, Drop-in Skating,
and seasonal memberships available for
children of all ages interested in
Skateboarding and
Inline Skating
• Adult Recreation
Look for our NEW PICK-
LEBALL program - Group
Exercise -
Dog Obedience Classes -
Lifeguard and WSI Certifi-
cation Courses - Tennis - SCUBA Diving Course - Yoga -
Adult Dance Classes offered in
Tap and Ballroom -
� �
195 Danbury Road - www.ridgefieldparksandrec.org - (203) 431-2755
clerk also maintains birth, death, and marriage records, and Inland Wetlands Board for permit, and some can be granted
veterans’ discharges; sells dog, fishing and hunting licenses; administratively by the agent. When permits are issued, the
issues marriage and civil union licenses; accepts tradename Wetlands Inspector monitors and inspects the activity to assure
certificate filings and liquor permit filings; and swears in all compliance with the permit. She also assists the Conservation
town officials. The town clerk also attends and takes a record Commission with inspections of open space and monitoring
of all town meetings, and prepares the material for all elections for compliance with open space restrictions.
and issues absentee ballots for elections and referendums. The
town clerk is elected for a two-year term. What does the zoning enforcement officer do?
Zoning Enforcement Officer Richard Baldelli (203-431-
What does the town treasurer do? 2768) makes certain that builders, developers and others obey
Town Treasurer Maureen Kiernan (203-431-2763), also the zoning regulations. He is full time, salaried, and appointed
a salaried position elected for a two-year term, manages all by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
town income, and invests and distributes money as directed
by the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance, and Board of What does the building inspector do?
Education. This office signs all town checks. Building Inspector Bill Reynolds (203-431-2743) is
responsible for reviewing building permit applications, and
What does the town planner do? approving them when they meet the state building code
Town Planner Betty Brosius (203-431-2766) is responsi- requirements.
ble for planning the town, suggesting changes for growth, and He periodically inspects construction during a project and,
supervising subdivisions and other developments regulated by upon completion, issues a certificate of occupancy if the proj-
the Planning and Zoning Department and the Inland Wetlands ect complies with the building code.
Board, Flood Control, and the Aquifer Protection Agency. Enforcing the building code along with the Health and Fire
She reviews all applications before the Planning and Zoning Departments is also a major responsibility. He is full-time,
Commission and the Inland Wetlands Board, and directs the salaried, state-certified, and is appointed by the first selectman
department, which includes the Zoning Enforcement Officer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
the Wetlands Inspector, and administrative staff. She is The building department is in the Town Hall Annex at 66
appointed by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Prospect Street. Hours are 7:30 to 4, Monday through Friday.
What does the Wetlands Inspector/Agent do? What does the tree warden do?
Wetlands and Conservation Inspector/Agent Aimee Tree Warden John Pinchbeck (203-431-2358) keeps track
Pardee (203-431-2383) reviews all applications for building of trees on town property to protect them as well as to keep
permits and earth-moving activity in relation to the potential them from becoming a hazard.
effect on wetlands. Some applications are referred to the He makes roads safer through taking down dead trees or
limbs, or by trimming. He plants and replaces trees as needed.
�� Who is the town’s judge of probate?

The office of probate judge, an elected position, is currently
held by Joseph Egan, a Republican.
The judge establishes the validity of wills and administers
the estates of people who die without wills. He can also ter-
�� minate parental rights, approve adoptions, act on a minor’s
estate, approve guardians for handicapped people, and grant
�� name changes. The clerk, Jacqueline Buckle, is available on a
daily basis and the judge by appointment. Call 203-431-2776.
�� Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 4:30 in
the town hall.
�� Ridgefield has had its own probate court since the 1840s.
But by January 2011, the local probate court will have a
�� new location and new name. As part of the consolidation of
�� Connecticut’s probate courts, the state legislature last year
placed Ridgefield, Bethel, Redding and Newtown in a new
probate district, Region 4 South. Early this year, the first
selectmen from the four towns chose Bethel as the location
� � � � � � � of the court and agreed on naming it the Northern Fairfield
� � � � � � � � � � � � County Probate Court.
��
What does the town counsel do?
The town uses a variety of independent law firms to repre-
�� sent it on labor matters and a variety of legal cases.
What does the Board of Finance do?

�� The Board of Finance is responsible for approving the
town budget. Every May the board presents the budget during
��
the annual town meeting. It has to publish an annual report.
��
The five members are elected to four-year terms that overlap.
��
(For members, see list of town officials.)
What is the Charter Revision Commission? sion’s Rangers program uses volunteers to maintain the town’s
This nine-member body gathers every four years to reex- open spaces; call 203-431-2713 for information. The e-mail
amine the town charter, which contains all the rules and regu- address is conservation@ridgefieldct.org.
lations the town must follow in the administration of local Members are Dr. Benjamin Oko, chair; Susan Baker,
affairs. The most recent changes were approved by the voters Carroll Brewster, David Cronin; George Orlan; Pat Sesto;
in November 2006. Kitsey Snow; Carol Stoddard; and Beth Yanity.
What’s the Planning and Zoning Commission? What is the Zoning Board of Appeals?
The nine-member Planning and Zoning Commission is The Zoning Board of Appeals, a body of five regular
responsible for the overall planning of the town and prepara- and three alternate elected members, has the power to waive
tion of the comprehensive town plan. Duties include regulat- or vary certain planning and zoning requirements if it can be
ing the use and development of Ridgefield’s land including shown that those requirements create an unfair hardship that
approving subdivisions and major commercial developments, is not of the property owner’s own creation, and the waiver or
such as shopping centers and office buildings. The commis- variance will not harm others. In addition, the board can hear
sion also serves as the town’s Inland Wetlands Board and the appeals of decisions of the zoning enforcement officer.
Aquifer Protection Agency. The nine members are elected The board meets twice a month on Monday evenings. Call
every two years for overlapping four-year terms. (For mem- 203-431-2786 and ask for administrator Marjorie Tippet.
bers, see list of town officials.) Regular members are listed under Town Officials. Alternate
members are Steven Coury (R), Henry Seemann (D) and
What does the Conservation Commission do? Michael Stenko (R).
The Conservation Commission is responsible for the
maintenance and preservation of the town’s natural resources. What’s the Parks and Recreation Commission?
Nine appointed members serve three-year terms. The commis- The appointed Parks and Recreation Commission is respon-
sion reviews development applications, walks sites, and makes sible for maintaining the town’s parks and athletic fields, as
recommendations to the Planning and Zoning Commission, well as the town’s indoor swimming pool at the Recreation
Inland Wetlands Board, and Zoning Board of Appeals. The Center. The commission also runs many programs, often
commission’s page at ridgefieldct.org (click on Commissions) involving athletics or exercise, and publishes program booklets
includes a Catalog of Ridgefield Open Spaces. Details and seasonally. The commission is in charge of Martin Park, the
maps on the open spaces are included in The Ridgefield Walk town’s only public beach. It appoints a superintendent, cur-
Book, which can be purchased at the town hall, Chamber rently Paul Roche, a paid full-time employee in charge of the
of Commerce, Books on the Common, and Ridgefield department’s paid staff. Commissioners are: Phil Kearns, chair;
Office Supply. The commission manages an Open Space Evie Bottali, Gina Carey, Jon Chase; Barbara Dobbin, Wayne
Conservation Fund and accepts gifts of land. The commis- Tinker and David Thaxter. They may be e-mailed at parksandr
� ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
eccommission@ridgefieldct.org. What state senatorial district are we in?

Ridgefield is in the 26th Senatorial District along with
What does the Police Commission do? Redding, Weston, Westport, Wilton and part of New Canaan.
The five-member, elected Police Commission handles Our senator is Republican Toni Boucher.
general management and supervision of the Ridgefield Police Senator Boucher may be reached at 5 Wicks End Lane,
Department. Members field letters from the public, act as a Wilton, 203-762-3232 or 800-842-1421. You may also write to
buffer between the public and non-emergency issues and gen- her at Senate Republican Office, LOB Room 3400, Hartford,
erally oversee the department. The commission appoints the CT 06106. E-mail her at ToniBoucher@cga.ct.gov. Visit online
police chief, currently John Roche, who reports to the com- at senaterepublicans.ct.gov/sen_info/Boucher.aspx.
mission. The commission conducts a monthly meeting open to
the public the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the What state house district are we in?
Town Hall Annex Building. We are in the 111th District, covering just Ridgefield. Our
Members are: Thomas Reynolds (R), chair; Susan Craig state representative is John H. Frey, Republican Whip.
(R), George Kain (D), Charles Knoche (R) and Carl Lecher He may be reached at 2 Copps Hill Road, Ridgefield,
(R). Messages for the commission may be left at 203-438- 06877, 203-431-6799; or Legislative Office Building, Room
6531, voice mail 1049. 4200, Hartford, CT 06106, 800-842-1423. His Web site is rep-
frey.com. E-mail: John.Frey@housegop.state.ct.us.
What are legal notices? Where can I read them?
Legal notices announce when Town Meetings and public How can I write the governor?
hearings will take place, and usually appear in The Ridgefield Gov. M. Jodi Rell may be reached at State Capitol, 210
Press, though they may also appear in The News-Times. Capitol Avenue, Hartford, 06106, 860-566-4840, Governor.
Other legal notices advertise the seeking of bids for pur- Rell@po.state.ct.us.
chases or construction; give notice of lost property; report Ms. Rell, a Republican, is not seeking re-election this fall.
upcoming elections, primaries or caucuses; list proposed bud-
gets; and publish the texts of proposed ordinances. Who represents Ridgefield in Congress?
Ridgefield is in the 4th Congressional District and is repre-
What is a notary public? Where can I find one? sented by Jim Himes, a Democrat.
A notary public is someone legally empowered to witness His local office is at 888 Washington Blvd., Stamford
signatures, certify documents and take depositions and affida- 06901-2927. Local phone numbers are 203-310-7711; fax
vits. Every bank has one on staff, and some real estate agents 203-210-7703. In Washington, he is at 214 Cannon HOB,
are notary publics. The town clerk’s office and The UPS Store Washington, DC 20515; 202-225-5541, fax 202-225-9629;
at 54 Danbury Road have notary publics. Web site: himes.house.gov.
Who are Connecticut’s senators?

Senators Christopher Dodd and Joseph Lieberman repre-
�� sent Connecticut in our nation’s capital.
Senator Dodd, a Democrat, may be reached at 100 Great
Meadow Road, Wethersfield, CT 06109, 800-334-5341, or 448
�� Russell Senate Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-
2823; Senator@dodd.senate.gov. Web site: dodd.senate.gov.
�� He is not seeking re-election this fall.

��
�� Senator Lieberman, an Independent who caucuses with
�� the Democrats, may be reached at 706 Hart Office Bldg.,
��
�� Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-4041; fax 202-224-9750.
�� His Hartford office is at One Constitution Plaza, 7th Floor,
�� Hartford, CT 06103, 800-225-5605, fax: 866-317-2242; sena-
�� tor_lieberman@lieberman.senate.gov. Web site: lieberman.
��
senate.gov.
��
�� Where can I get information about enlisting in one of
�� the military branches?
�� Several branches of the U.S. military have recruiting offices
��
�� at 2 White Street Plaza in Danbury: the Air Force, 203-748-
�� 1643; the Army, 203-792-1590; the Marines, 203-748-3430;
�� and the Navy, 203-743-1375. The Connecticut Army National
�� Guard has an office at 54 West Street, 203-794-1854. For the
�� Connecticut Air National Guard, call 860-292-2502.
�� Ridgefield High School has information for students on
�� military service.
��
Where can I find the names of Ridgefielders are serv-
��
��
ing in the U.S. military?
The Ridgefield Press maintains a list of names and address-
��
�� es of men and women serving our country.
Visit online at theridgefieldpress.com and click on Serving
��
Our Nation. The list is occasionally printed in the paper.
��
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Schools 21
Schools
What does the Board of Education do? Branchville Elementary School, 40 Florida Road, 203-
Board tasks include proposing a budget to run the schools, 544-7980, Jason McKinnon, principal; for kindergarten
overseeing spending, setting policies and rules, hiring the through fifth grades.
superintendent, approving administrators, adopting books Farmingville Elementary School, 324 Farmingville Road,
and courses, negotiating staff contracts, and hearing citizen 203-431-2830, Susan Gately, principal; for kindergarten
appeals. through fifth grades.
Ridgebury Elementary School, 112 Bennetts Farm Road,
Where is the school district office? 203-438-6555, Elizabeth Smith, principal; for kindergarten
The office is at 70 Prospect Street (203-431-2800) in the through fifth grades.
old high school. Central office administrators, including Scotland Elementary School, 111 Barlow Mountain Road,
Superintendent of Schools Deborah Low, work there. During 203-438-6563, Mark Solomon, principal; for kindergarten
the school year the office is open 8:30 to 4:30; summer hours through fifth grades.
are 8 to 3:30, except high school office hours, 7 to 2:45. The Veterans Park Elementary School, 8 Governor Street,
school district Web site is ridgefield.org. 203-438-6571, Julie Droller, principal; for kindergarten
through fifth grades.
What public schools are in town? Ridgefield Alternative High School is at Ballard Green
Ridgefield has six elementary schools, two middle schools, and serves students who otherwise might not be successful at
and one high school. The following enrollments are approxi- Ridgefield High School. Students apply and attend by choice.
mate. A maximum of 20 students participate in 10th through 12th
Ridgefield High School, 700 North Salem Road, 203-438- grade. They are considered Ridgefield High students and
3785, Jeffrey Jaslow, principal; for ninth through 12th grades. receive a Ridgefield High School diploma.
East Ridge Middle School, 10 East Ridge Road, 203-
438-3744, Martin Fiedler, principal; for sixth through eighth What are the hours of operation at the schools?
grades. Ridgefield High School is open from 7:25 to 2:15;
Scotts Ridge Middle School, 750 North Salem Road, 203- early dismissal is 10:55. East Ridge and Scotts Ridge
894-3400, Timothy Salem, principal; for sixth through eighth middle schools are open 8 to 2:50; early dismissal is 11:30.
grades. Branchville, Ridgebury, and Scotland elementary schools are
Barlow Mountain Elementary School, 115 Barlow open 8:35 to 3:25; early dismissal is 12:05. Barlow Mountain,
Mountain Road, 203-894-7700; Rebecca Pembrook, principal; Farmingville, and Veterans Park elementary schools are open
for preschool through fifth grades. 9:10 to 4; early dismissal is 12:40.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
� ��
��
� ��
� ��
Since 1983 Carlson Physical Therapy has provided ��
��
the Ridgefield community with superior manual ��
��
� ��
therapy and personalized exercise programs. In
addition, we offer massage therapy, personal
��
training, vestibular rehab, wellness care, custom
orthotics and independent gym programs. ��
��
Gail Fennell, PT
��
Crystal Benson Madyda, MSPT
Joanne Sullivan, PT
��
Robin Raposa, PT ��
��
Gigi Gugliotta, MSPT ��
��
��
��
Melissa Hackett, LMT
��
��
��
22 Schools The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
A full-day kindergarten program begins this fall.

Delayed openings are two hours after a school’s regular What is the average class size in our elementary,
start time. middle and high schools?
According to the Board of Education’s 2008-09 class size
What are school holidays and vacations? report, the desired class size practice is 20 students in kinder-
The 2010-11 school year begins for students on Sept. 1 garten and first grade; 24 students in second grade, 25 students
for kindergarteners through ninth graders and Sept. 2 for 10th in third through 12th grades.
through 12th graders. Student holidays and vacations are:
Labor Day, Sept. 6; Rosh Hashanah, Sept. 9; Columbus Day, What are the average SAT scores for the seniors at
Oct. 11; professional development day for teachers, Oct. 12; the high school?
Veterans Day, Nov. 11; early dismissal, Nov. 24; Thanksgiving, Mean SAT scores for the Class of 2009 were as follows:
Nov. 25-26; early dismisal, Dec. 23; holiday recess, Dec. 24- 581 math, 570 reading, and 578 writing, for a total of 1729 out
31; New Year’s observed, Dec. 31; Martin Luther King’s birth- of a possible 2400.
day observed, Jan. 17; Presidents’ Day, Feb. 21; professional Total aveage scores elsewhere: Wilton, 1785; New Canaan,
development day, Feb. 22; professional development day, April 1782; Weston, 1778; Greenwich, 1738; Region 9 (Redding and
1; spring recess, April 18-21; Good Friday, April 22; Memorial Easton), 1725.
Day, May 30. The tentative last full day of school is June 13,
depending on the number of snow days used during the year. How have students performed in the National Merit
Storm closing days are added to the end of the school year. Scholarship program?
Four Ridgefield High School seniors, in the class of 2009,
What are the enrollment numbers in the public were chosen as National Merit Scholarship finalists. The final-
schools? ists, who represented less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors,
On the fifth day of the last school year (a traditional included the highest scoring entrants in each state.
marker), total enrollment was 5,413. School by school: In addition, 22 seniors received National Merit letters of com-
Barlow Mountain, 362; Branchville, 426; Farmingville, 367; mendation, meaning they placed among the top 5% of students
Ridgebury, 421; Scotland, 390; Veterans Park, 327; East who entered the competition nationwide.
Ridge, 741; Scotts Ridge, 610; Ridgefield High, 1,769 stu-
dents. What testing is given to preschool children?
The schools’ kindergarten to fifth grade enrollment was There is no formal testing, but a reading and math inven-
2,295 in the past school year, down almost 300 in the last eight tory is given, as well as a speech screening.
years. The schools’ demographer projects it to fall by another
800 or more over the next decade, to between 1,420 and 1,459. What tests do students take?
Total enrollment peaked at 5,540 in 2005-06. The Connecticut State Mastery Test is a state-mandated,
��

��
��
��
��
��
� ��
��
�� Parties of
��
all sizes welcome
� ��
��
��
��
� ��
��
��
��
One affair per day
Kosher catering
Animal Fair
The Pet Shop Extraordinaire
available
��
��
criteria-reference test. It is given to students in third through (Distributive Education Clubs of America), Diversity Club,
eighth grade. The Connecticut Academic Performance Test Docent Program Aldrich, Docent Program Keeler Tavern,
(CAPT) is the state-mandated test given in 10th grade. In Foreign Language Club, Frisbee Club, Future Business
addition, the district conducts internal testing in reading in the Leaders of America, Guitar Club, Habitat for Humanity,
elementary schools. Interact Club, International Thespian Society, International
Club, Key Club, Knitting Club, Latin Club, Lighting Club,
How have students fared on the Connecticut Mastery Literary Group, Lodestar (literary magazine), Madrigals,
Test? Marine Biology, Martial Arts Club, Math League, Mock Trial,
The Connecticut Mastery Test is given to students in third Model U.N., Outreach Club, Philosophy, POWER (Project of
through eighth grades each year. The latest scores available Women’s Essential Rights), Ridgefield Astronomy Club, Roots
are for students who took the test in 2010. Generally, the lat- & Shoots, Straight/Gay Alliance, STAND, Student Union,
est scores were stronger than in 2009 and 2008. Following are Tiger’s Roar (student newspaper), Tiger’s Den (pep club),
the percentages of Ridgefield students who scored at or above Yearbook (The Caudatowan), Youth Against Cancer, and Youth
goal: to Youth.
Third grade: math 81.7%, reading 79.9%, writing.
Fourth grade: math 93.9%, reading 82.6%, writing 83.8%. What musical groups are at the high school?
Fifth grade: math 93.8%, reading 85.9%, writing 90.8%, The high school sponsors and supports the RHS Orchestra,
science 87.2%. Students for the Performing Arts, Concert Band, Jazz Band,
Sixth grade: math 90.8%, reading 89.9%, writing 89.7%. Chamber Ensembles, Concert Choir, Madrigal Singers, and
Seventh grade: math 90.5%, reading 91.8%, writing 83%. Pep Band.
Eighth grade: math 93.5%, reading 94.1%, writing 89.6%, A schedule of concerts is issued by the Student Activities
science, 89%. office and also appears in The Ridgefield Press.
How have students performed on the CAPTs? What is the ABC program?
The Connecticut Academic Performance Tests, known as A Better Chance is a national program that provides aca-
the CAPTs, test for proficiency in math, science, reading, and demically talented minority students access to good schools,
writing. both private and public, that they otherwise could not attend.
The latest scores were better this year than on 15 of 24 In this area, Ridgefield, Wilton and New Canaan have ABC
testing areas and worse on nine. Scores below are for the test chapters. Ridgefield’s ABC has a house in town where the
taken in 2010 by the Ridgefield High School sophomore class. ABC students live during the school year, attending classes
The percentage of students who scored at or above state at Ridgefield High. Donald DeYoung is president. For infor-
goals are as follows: math - 81.2%; science - 76.4%; reading mation, visit ridgefieldabc.org. Send general questions to
- 82.5%; writing - 92.3%. info@ridgefieldabc.org.
Are our students physically fit?

According to the Strategic School Profile for 2007-08, pub-
lished by the State of Connecticut, 40.2% of Ridgefield public
school students achieved the health standard on four tests for
flexibility, abdominal strength and endurance, upper-body
strength and aerobic endurance. Statewide, 36.1% of students
achieved the standard on all four tests. ��
What interscholastic sports are offered at the high ��

school? � ��
Ridgefield High School offers the following sports with � ��
varsity (V), junior varsity (JV), and freshman (F) levels noted:
Fall: boys: cross country (V), football (V/JV/F), soccer (V/
JV/F); girls: cheerleading (V), cross country (V), field hockey
(V/JV/F), soccer (V/JV/F), swimming/diving (V/JV), volley-
ball (V/JV).
Winter: boys: basketball (V/JV/F), ice hockey (V), indoor
track (V), swimming/diving (V/JV), wrestling (V/JV), ski-
ing (V/JV); girls: basketball (V/JV/F), cheerleading (V), ice
hockey (V), indoor track (V), skiing (V/JV).
Spring: boys: baseball (V/JV/F), golf (V), lacrosse (V/JV/
F), outdoor track (V), tennis (V/JV), volleyball (V/JV); girls:
golf (V), lacrosse (V/JV/F), outdoor track (V), softball (V/JV/
F), tennis (V/JV). (The junior varsity tennis team is a co-ed
team.)
What extracurricular activities are at the high

school?
The choices are many and change from year to year: ��
Anime Club, Art Students Association, Beat Influence (Techno ��
Music Club), Best Buddies, Captain’s Council, Chess Team, ��
CAVC Club (Computer, Audio and Visual Communication),
Dance Team, Dance, Dance Revolution, Debate Team, DECA
24 Town Officials The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Town Officials
First Selectman Rudy Marconi (D) selectman@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2774
Second Selectman Barbara Manners (D) mannersb@aol.com 203-431-6501
Selectman Di Masters (D) dimasters@yahoo.com 203-431-8738
Selectman Joan Plock (R) joanplock@snet.net 203-438-8760
Selectman Andy Bodner (R) andrewmbodner@aol.com 203-438-2620
Board of Finance
Peter Gomez (ch) (R) pgomez@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2721
Jill Bornstein (R) jbornstein@ridgefieldct.org 203-438-6130
Marty Heiser (R) heiserhouse@aol.com 203-438-9341
Margaret Price Sims (R) mprice@ridgefieldct.org 203-438-2626
David F. Ulmer (D) dulmer@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-7767
Board of Education
Austin C. Drukker, Jr. (ch) (R) adrukker@ridgefield.org 203-438-7543
Irene Burgess (D) BoardofEd@ridgefield.org 203-431-1291
Russell Katz (R) rkatz@ridgefield.org 203-438-2546
Lyn Merrill (D) lmerrill@ridgefield.org 203-431-2800
John Palermo (R) jpalermo@ridgefield.org 203-438-1887
Sandi H. Rose (R) srose@ridgefield.org 203-438-2907
Amy Shinohara (D) BoardofEd@ridgefield.org 203-894-1608
Richard Steinhart (R) rsteinhart@ridgefield.org 203-438-9442
Paul Sutherland (D) psutherland@ridgefield.org 203-431-9336
Planning and Zoning

Rebecca Mucchetti (ch.) (R) 197 Farmingville Road 203-431-2766
Michael Autuori (R) P.O. Box 269 203-431-2766
Peter Chipouras (R) 111 Minuteman Road 203-431-1232
Joseph Fossi (D) 174 St. John’s Road 203-431-6375
Nelson Gelfman (D) 374 North Salem Road 203-438-4107
John Katz (R) 473 Ridgebury Road 203-438-2227
James McChesney (R) 42 Tannery Hill Road 203-438-4159
Philip Mische (D) 24 Neds Lane 203-438-8102
Patrick J. Walsh (R) 6 Riverside Drive 203-438-7450
Zoning Board of Appeals
Charles Creamer (ch) (R) 27 Sprucewood Lane 203-438-3006
Duane C. Barney (R) 21 Seth Low Mountain Road 203-438-7223
Charles Campbell (R) 250 Wilton Road East 203-438-0464
Dwayne Escola (D) Catoonah Street 203-438-6818
Glenn R. Smith (R) 209 Mimosa Circle 203-438-7513
Board of Assessment Appeals
Robert R. Jewell (R) 150 Danbury Road 203-438-6534
Richard Mincer (R) 56 Branchville Road 203-431-4906
Jeff L. Bonistalli (D) 16 Settlers Road 203-431-6833
Animal Control Officer David Coles 40 South Street 203-431-2711
Assessor Al Garzi assessor@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2710
Building Inspector Bill Reynolds 66 Prospect Street 203-431-2744
Controller Kevin Redmond controller@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2721
Fire Chief Heather L. Burford rfdchief@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2776
Fire Marshal David Lathrop firemarshal@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2729
Health Director Ed Briggs eb.health@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2745
Judge of Probate Joseph A. Egan, Jr. 400 Main Street 203-431-2776
Municipal Agent/Disabled Carole Konner socialservices@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2754
Police Chief John Roche 76 East Ridge Road 203-438-6531
Public Services, Director Peter Hill highway@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2748
Registrar of Voters Hope S. Wise (R) gopregistrar@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2772
Registrar of Voters Cynthia Bruno (D) demsregistrar@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2771
Social Services, Director Mary Ann Baldwin socialservices@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2777
Superintendent of Schools Deborah Low superintendent@ridgefield.org 203-431-2800, x2015
Tax Collector Jane Berendsen-Hill taxoffice@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2781
Town Clerk Barbara Serfilippi townclerk@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2783
Town Engineer Charles Fisher cf.eng@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2751
Town Planner Betty Brosius 66 Prospect Street 203-431-2769
Town Treasurer Maureen M. Kiernan treasurer@ridgefieldct.org 203-431-2763
Tree Warden John Pinchbeck 60 South Street 203-431-2358
Zoning Enforcement Officer Richard Baldelli 66 Prospect Street 203-431-2768
If your child is to be enrolled in an elementary school and

What is the current school budget? you do not know the district, call the transportation department
In early May voters approved $77.8 million budget for at 203-431-2800.
schools, up $1 milllion or 1.35% over the 2009-10 budget. To register a high school student schedule an appointment
The new budget includes the school board’s $700,000 plan with a guidance counselor through the guidance secretary.
to go from half-day to full-day kindergarten. Major capital Bring proof of residency and proof of immunization.
project approved include a boiler replacement at Branchville
School ($380,000) and asbestos abatement at Farmingville What kind of information does the school require for
School ($100,000). registration?
For kindergarten, the schools require proof of address, a
What is the salary range for teachers? birth certificate with raised seal, and proof of immunization.
For the 2009-10 school year, the starting salary for a Children who live in the town go through a pre-kindergarten
beginning teacher with zero to three years of experience was screening in May.
$45,710. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the highest sal- Those moving in after May must register at the school
ary (for a teacher at Step 20 with a Ph.D. or an Ed.D.) was they’ll attend.
$102,108 For transferring students, the schools require a copy of
their transcript or report card and their medical forms, proof of
Who is the superintendent of schools and how much address and immunization.
does she earn?
Deborah Low joined Ridgefield public schools as superin- When can my child enter kindergarten?
tendent in July 2007. Previously, she served as assistant super- Any child who turns five years old before Jan. 1 during a
intendent for curriculum and instruction in Wilton. Her base given calendar year may enter kindergarten that fall; otherwise
salary is $190,000 with a $17,000 annuity. Additional incen- they enroll the next year. Parents may hold a child back, par-
tive payments can add as much as $18,000. ticularly if the child was born late in the year.
Parents should discuss the situation with their school princi-
How and when do I register a child for school? pal. The decision is left up to the parents.
To register, call the school, talk to the secretary, and acquire
the necessary forms. Kindergarten registration takes place in How can I find out if school is canceled because of
late February/early March. Children in private kindergartens bad weather?
who will attend first grade in a public school should be regis- Announcements are made between 6 and 8 a.m. on WLAD
tered in May at the school they will attend. Kindergarten ori- 800 AM, WCBS 880 AM, WRCH 100.5 FM, WEBE 107.9
entation takes play in May. Full day kindergarten begins in the FM, Channel 3, Channel 8, and Channel 30. On the Internet,
2010-11 school year. check the school Web site at ridgefield.org. A new feature
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
26 Schools The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
there is the “eAlerts” for which parents may sign up. How many nursery schools/preschools are in town?
Ridgefield Public Schools also offer voicemail notification Nursery schools are: All For Twos, The Preschool
for emergency and unanticipated early dismissal information Playhouse (203-438-0732/allfortwos.com), Almost Home
(but not snow cancellations), and e-mail notification for offi- Child Care and Preschool (203-894-8208/almosthomecc.
cial school communications. For information, visit the school com), Creative Children’s Corner (203-438-3001),
district Web site, click on District Calendar and scroll down to Enchanted Garden Creative Arts (203-431-3350 /enchant-
Emergency Early Dismissals. edgardenarts.com), The Growing Tree (203-431-6152), Jesse
Lee Day School (203-438-9204/methodistnurseryschool.
What is special education? Who does it help? org), Kaleidoscope Kids (203-748-1177/kkidsridgefield.
Special education includes a variety of programs to deal com), Littleville Preschool (203-431-2755/ridgefieldct.org
with things that prevent children from achieving academically click on Parks & Recreation), My Nursery School (203-
or functioning in a regular classroom. Among those helped by 438-0802/mynurseryschool.com), Landmark of Ridgefield
special education are children with learning disabilities, physi- Academy (203-894-1800/ridgefieldacademy.com), Ridgefield
cal handicaps and emotional problems, and mentally chal- Community Kindergarten (203-438-3025/ridgefieldcommu-
lenged children. Special education is federally mandated, but nitykindergarten.com), Ridgefield Montessori School (203-
the town pays about 96% of the cost of programs. 431-4506/ridgefieldmontessori.com), Saint Mary Preschool
(203-438-7288/smsridgefield.org), St. Stephen’s Nursery
How can I find out if my child should have special School (203-438-6806/ststephens-ridgefield.org), and Wizards
education? and Rainbows Kindergarten Enrichment (203-438-4317).
Call the school guidance counselor, or talk to your class-
room teacher, to discuss whether your child may need special What private schools are here or nearby?
education. You may also call the district office to speak to Saint Mary Catholic School (203-438-7288/smsridgefield.
someone in the special education department. org) at 183 High Ridge Avenue offers a preschool (full-day
and half-day classes for three-, four- and five-year-olds) plus
Is there a PTA in town? What does the PTA do? kindergarten (full-day) through eighth grade. Ridgefield
Each school has its own Parent Teacher Association. The Academy (203-894-1800/ridgefieldacademy.com) offers pre-
PTAs are made up of parents and teachers (and, at the high school through eighth grade at 223 West Mountain Road.
school, students) and raise money, support school events, and Maimonides Academy in Danbury (203-748-7129/mawc-
try to further the interests of the schools. The Ridgefield Joint school.org) is a Jewish day school with programs for pre-kin-
Council of PTAs supports and coordinates the separate PTA dergarten through grade five. Our Lady of Fatima in Wilton
groups. For the names of PTA presidents, call the school. For (203-762-8100/olfrs.org) is a Catholic school for pre-school
general information, visit the district Web site, ridgefield.org, through eighth grade; it has an all-day kindergarten. The
and click on the individual schools. Wooster School in Danbury (203-830-3900/woosterschool.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
org) has kindergarten through 12th grade. The Harvey School The Wooster Community Art Center (203-830-3984) in
(914-232-3161/harveyschool.org) in Katonah, N.Y., has sixth Danbury offers art courses. Silvermine School of Art (203-
through 12th grades. In New Canaan, St. Luke’s (203-966- 966-9700/silvermineart.org) is in New Canaan.
5612/stlukesct.org) has grades five through 12 and New
Canaan Country School (203-972-0771/countryschool.net) Is there a dance school in the area?
grades kindergarten through nine. Immaculate High School Hot Shoes (203-431-6414/hotshoesdance.com) 15 Danbury
(203-744-1510/immaculatehs.org) is a Catholic coed high Road; The Ridgefield School of Dance (203-431-6134/ther-
school in Danbury. Catholic schools reported that non-Catholic idgefieldschoolofdance.com), 66 Grove Street; The Ridgefield
students are welcome. Conservatory of Dance (203-438-5597/ridgefielddance.
org), 444 Main Street; Enchanted Garden Conservatory
Is there an adult education program here? of the Arts (203-894-1987/enchantedgardenarts.com), 529
The Ridgefield Adult Education program runs evening Ethan Allen Highway (Route 7) and its School of the Arts
classes for those 16 and older during the fall, winter and spring. (203-431-3350) at 165 Danbury Road (Route 35); Ridgefield
Catalogues are mailed to all households. Students 62 and older Studio of Performing Arts (203-431-8728/rspaonline.com)
and the disabled qualify for a discount. Call 203-431-9995 for 109 Danbury Road; Walter Schalk School of Dance (203-
details or e-mail ridgefieldadulteducation@yahoo.com. Course 762-7508/walterschalk.com), and Ridgefield Parks and
descriptions are online at ridgefieldschools.org. The office is on Recreation (203-438-2755/ridgefieldct.org).
the second floor of the Richard E. Venus Municipal Building.
Are there any music schools nearby?
Where can I take college courses nearby? Sharps & Flats, 31 Bailey Avenue (203-438-3300/sfmusic.
Western Connecticut State University (203-837-8200/ biz) offers lessons in piano, woodwinds, strings, and voice. E-
wcsu.edu) in Danbury offers both graduate and under- mail: sfmusic@att.net. Hearts and Minds Music, 19 Danbury
graduate courses as does the University of Connecticut in Road (203-438-3300/heartsandmindsmusic.com) offers the
Stamford (203-251-8400/stamford.uconn.edu) and Fairfield Kindermusic curriculum for children from infancy through age
University (203-254-4000/fairfield.edu) in Fairfield. Norwalk seven. Ridgefield Music, 19 Governor Street (203-438-7446)
Community College (203-857-7000/nctc.comnet.edu) also offers instruction in most band and orchestral instruments as
offers a complete degree program. well as piano and guitar.
Is there an art school nearby? Where is the nearest vocational school?

The Ridgefield Guild of Artists (203-438-8863/rgoa. Henry Abbott Regional Vocational and Technical School
org) on Halpin Lane off Prospect Ridge offers instruction for (203-797-4460) in Danbury. Post graduates and adults may
beginners and advanced students, as well as many children’s call ext. 4427. Web site: cttech.org/abbott.
programs.
��
��
��
�
��
��
�
��
� ��
��
��
��
��
Ages 6 weeks to 6 years
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Public Services 29
Public Services
Where is the library and when is it open? private or business functions. Call 203-438-2282 for details.
The Ridgefield Library (203-438-2282) is at 472 Main
Street. It is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 to Does the library use volunteers, need books for
6, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 to 9, Saturday 9 to 5; and sales?
Sunday 1 to 5 (Labor Day to mid-June). It is closed for some The Friends of the Library is a volunteer organization
holidays and on summer Sundays. The library’s Web site is that supports the library in many ways. Its principal fund-rais-
ridgefieldlibrary.org. The director is Chris Nolan (203-438- ing activities include numerous used book sales each year, for
6960/cbnolan@ridgefieldlibrary.org). which it accepts book donations (subject to certain conditions).
For upcoming sale dates and information about donating
How many books does our library have? books, call the library at 203-438-2282.
The library, with nearly 1,100 daily visitors, has more than For information about volunteering with or becoming a
130,000 books, DVDs, audio books, videos, recorded music, member of the Friends, get in touch with Ann Jepson, presi-
and magazines. Reference desk: 203-438-2282, ext. 1015 or dent, c/o the library. Volunteers are also used extensively by
1016/e-mail: referencedesk@ridgefieldlibrary.org. the library directly to assist staff with library operations and
special programs. Community service volunteering opportu-
What does the Ridgefield Library offer besides nities are available. For information, call Assistant Director
books and magazines? Mary Rindfleisch at 203-438-2282.
The library’s online services include specialized databases
and an online catalog connecting Ridgefield with libraries What is the Ridgefield Community Center?
across the U.S. Reference services also include periodicals and The Ridgefield Community Center in the historic 1896
other research materials on microfiche and microfilm and the Lounsbury House is listed on the National Register of
Ridgefield Press archive in microfilm and electronic format Historic Places and is a vital component to the history of the
(depending on date). The collection includes audiobooks on town. The property is owned by the town, but is operated by
cassette and CD and available for download; feature, chil- a separate nonprofit group, is self-supporting and receives
dren’s and documentary films on VHS and DVD; music CDs; no tax money. The house offers an elegant and sophisticated
educational CD-ROMs, and video games for PlayStation 2, setting for weekday and weekend rentals available for meet-
XBox, and Game Cube. It also offers Internet access, personal ings, corporate events, private parties, weddings, anniversary
productivity software and children’s multimedia educational celebrations, fund-raisers and other occasions. Memberships
software from more than two dozen computer stations, as well are available. Benefits include members-only events, reduced
as wireless Internet access for those with laptops. Reference rental rates and special prices on ticketed events. The center,
help is available 24/7 through the library’s Web page.
Can I access the catalog from my home?

The library’s Web address is ridgefieldlibrary.org. The site
gives information about the library, its collection and pro-
��
grams; access to the catalog; and to many of its online data- ��
base services. ��
��
May I borrow books from other libraries? ��
Your local library card may be used at most public librar- ��
ies in Connecticut. Books borrowed at other libraries in ��
Connecticut may be returned here, and the library will send
��
��
them to the proper library. You may also borrow items through ��
an interlibrary loan. ��
��
Are there any library activity groups? ��
Children’s Services offers a range of activities for young
��
��
people, from newborn through high school. For young children
there are drop-in storytimes and Friday Flicks, Mother Goose ��
movement and music, and special programs from time to time. ��
For school age children there are book discussion clubs; a ��
summer reading program with components focusing on art,
��
��
drama, and music; classical music programs; reading to thera- ��
py dogs; crafts; Scrabble games; and special events such as PJ ��
Storytime and talent shows and a summer reading program. A
Teen Services librarian organizes special programs for young ��
adults in middle and high school, including a book discussion ��
group, a film series, special events and a summer reading pro- ��
gram. For registration information, call 203-438-2282.
Adult programs include movies, discussion groups, lectures, ��
seminars, concerts, poetry readings, special events, and clubs ��
such as the Shutterbugs photography club, a memoir writing ��
group, and the Writer’s Guild. Many programs take place in
the Dayton Program Room, which may also be rented for ��
30 Public Services The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
at 316 Main Street, and can be reached by calling 203-438-

6962. Office hours are typically 9 to 5, Monday through
Friday, but are subject to change. It is suggested to call ahead.
Appointments for viewing are strongly encouraged. The Web
site is lounsburyhouse.com
How can the town social worker help me?

The Department of Social Services (203-431-2777) offers
information and referrals and helps people apply for local,
state, and federal benefit programs. Through its director, Mary
Ann Baldwin, who is also the municipal agent for the elderly
and the town’s ADA coordinator, the department helps fami-
lies and non-disabled adults, including senior citizens. Carol
Konner, the municipal agent for the disabled, helps disabled
people access specialized services such as Medicaid, Social
Security disability, transportation, fuel assistance, and more.
Specific programs, such as the Friendly Shopper Service
Program and Latchkey Kid Program are detailed under Senior
Citizens and Children & Teens in the Answerbook.
Does anyone help victims of domestic violence or

sexual abuse?
The Women’s Center of Greater Danbury, an advocacy
group working at ending domestic violence since 1975, has
trained counselors manning two 24-hour hotlines: 203-731-
5206 for domestic violence; 203-731-5204 for sexual assault.
The center offers a shelter, counseling, advocacy services,
workshops and support groups for victims of violence. The
center may be reached during regular business hours at 203-
731-5200. The Web site is womenscenterofgreaterdanbury.org.
Does the town have a food bank?

There is a non-perishable food pantry at town hall. It is
open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 to 11:30; and
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2:30 to 4. People who
�� wish to use the food pantry must check in on their first visit
with the Department of Social Services. Donations of non-
�� perishable food and personal care and household products are
appreciated and may be dropped off Monday through Friday
from 9 to 4. For information or large donations by the truck-
�� load, call 203-431-2754.
�� Meals on Wheels provides a daily meal for those who can-
not get out or are unable to cook. It is staffed by volunteers;
�
��
��
call 203-438-8788 or visit online at mealcall.org/meals-on-
wheels/ct/ridgefield.htm.
Local churches and synagogues organize food, clothing,
�� and toy drives in response to need. There are always places to
�� contribute before Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Contact
the organization of your choice.
��
�� What is Family & Children’s Agency?
�� Family & Children’s Agency, Inc. is a private, nonprofit,
family service agency, which offers a wide range of compre-
�� hensive services, including individual, family and addiction
counseling; international and domestic adoption; support ser-
�� vices for seniors through HomeCare Plus and Lifeline; family
support services; youth development and mentoring; and com-
�� munity education programs. For information, call 203-855-
8765 or visit online at familyandchildrensagency.org.
�� Are there any charitable organizations in town?
�� The Friends of Ridgefield Community Programs is a
�� charitable organization that will act as a receiver of donations
�� to the town. For example, if someone wanted to donate money
for the acquisition of open space, they could do so through this
�� entity. For details, call Town Clerk Barbara Serfilippi at 203-
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Public Services 31
431-2783. Funeral Home (203-544-8461).

The Ridgefield Emergency Fund, consisting entirely of Are there any short-term rentals available?
donations, helps needy Ridgefielders with food, utilities and Ridgefield Apartments offers apartments and single-family
other basic needs. You may donate by sending a check, pay- homes available for rent by the week or month or long term.
able to Ridgefield Emergency Fund, to the Social Services Call 203-431-0143, ext. 10, or visit ridgefieldapartments.com.
Department, Town Hall, 400 Main Street. E-mail: info@ridgefieldapartments.com.
As its name implies, the Evelyn C. Peeler Children’s
Holiday Gift Fund helps the less fortunate children of What can I do with a worn-out American flag?
Ridgefield through holiday gifts and back-to-school supplies The Ridgefield detachment of the Marine Corps League
and the like. The group operates under the auspices of the collects worn American flags for proper disposition. Flags
Ridgefield Clergy Association and is fiscally sponsored as a that are torn, faded or otherwise unserviceable should not be
non-profit organization by the First Congregational Church. thrown away. They may be brought to specially marked red
Contributions may be sent to the Evelyn C. Peeler Children’s containers at the transfer station or the Marine Corps League
Holiday Gift Fund, c/o UPS Store #218, 54 Danbury Road, building at 25 Halpin Lane. The Marines will periodically burn
Ridgefield, 06877. Information: Susan Ferguson at 203-431- the flags in accordance with proper flag protocol. For informa-
4546 or Nancy Sampson at 203-431-0910. tion, call 203-438-4333.
How can I help the Salvation Army or Goodwill? Is there a community calendar of events?
Donations for Goodwill may be brought to its trailer near The Ridgefield Arts Council maintains an online calen-
the Recycling Center on South Street. There is a manned dar showcasing local events at ridgefieldartscouncil.org. The
Goodwill Donation Center at the All Seasons Shopping Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce calendar lists yearly
Center, 231 Ethan Allen Highway, open Monday through events plus other announced events at ridgefieldchamber.org.
Saturday from 8 to 7; and from 10 to 4 on Sunday. The Ridgefield Press’s Date Book is a list of a wide variety of
Items for the Salvation Army to resell may be brought special events open to the public. The Arts & Leisure section of
to its thrift store, 129 Main Street, Danbury (203-792-9799). The Press offers weekly listings of events, both in town and in
Hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 to 5. the region. Both are posted online at TheRidgefieldPress.com.
Where are burial plots? How would I get one? Where can I get help with my income taxes?
Burial plots are available in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Any Ridgefield taxpayer who meets income and simple
Mapleshade Cemetery, Fairlawn Cemetery, Ridgebury tax return criteria may receive free assistance in filling out
Cemetery, and Branchville Cemetery. Each is independently federal and state tax forms through the seasonal AARP Tax-
owned. To contact the owners or for more information about Aide Program. The program begins in February and continues
the sites, call Kane Funeral Home (203-438-6597) or Bouton through mid-April. Call Peter Massagli at 203-438-2755.
��
��
��
��
32 Property Issues The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Property Issues
How can I research the town’s zoning laws? When do you need sewer approval?
The Planning and Zoning Commission adopted a com- Approval for sewers is needed when seeking a permit for
pletely revised and updated set of zoning regulations on May an addition, a new home, a new business, and it may require
1, 2007, after almost two years of work. The regulations have approval from the town sanitarian (203-431-2745) or the Water
been made easier to use and understand. The most substantial Pollution Control Authority (203-431-2734). This is a prereq-
changes involve calculations for lot coverage and floor area, uisite to a zoning or building permit.
establishment of a Village District within the Central Business
District, updated zoning definitions, change of use procedures Whom do I call if my neighbor’s septic system is
for commercial properties, establishment of an integrated age- leaking onto my property?
restricted housing district, sign regulations, and changes in Call the health department at 203-431-2745.
architectural review requirements.
Copies of the regulations may be purchased at the Planning Can I rent an apartment in my house?
and Zoning Office at the Town Hall Annex, 66 Prospect Accessory apartments may be created and rented in
Street, or downloaded from the town’s Web site at ridgefieldct. houses within certain areas of the town. Accessory Success
org, under Departments / Planning and Zoning / Zoning is a 24-page guide to creating an accessory apartment. It
Regulations. covers logistical, financial, regulatory, and practical issues
regarding such apartments. Copies are available at the infor-
For what kinds of work do I need a building permit? mation center in the town hall, at the Planning and Zoning
Any and all construction requires a permit from the build- Department in the town hall annex at 66 Prospect Street, or
ing department. by e-mailing the Ridgefield Affordable Housing Committee at
This includes internal and external remodeling, enlarging, affordablehousing@snet.net. For specific information, call the
additions, and new construction. Call 203-431-2743 for more Planning and Zoning office at 203-431-2766.
information.
Can I start a bed and breakfast?
When do I need a zoning permit? A bed and breakfast may be operated with a permit and
A zoning permit is needed for any interior or exterior compliance with certain regulations. Among other things, the
construction or use of property, such as a swimming pool or operation must be run by the resident owner of the property
in-home medical office. Call 203-431-2766 for complete infor- and there must be adequate off-street parking. Call Planning
mation. and Zoning at 203-431-2766.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Property Issues 33
Do I need a permit for a business in my home? snow is pushed to the right side as you face the road. This will
Certain “customary home occupations” in residential zones minimize the amount of snow pushed back into a driveway by
may be operated as-of-right or with a permit from the zon- town plows.
ing enforcement officer, and other businesses may be oper-
ated with a special permit from the Planning and Zoning What happens if my mailbox is damaged by a town
Commission. Call 203-431-2766 for details. snowplow?
The town does not accept responsibility for damage to
Are there any requirements for putting up signs? private property within the town right-of-way, which often
The town has specific sign regulations, and generally signs extends 10 to 20 feet on either side of a paved road. In the
require a permit from the zoning enforcement officer. There event of mailbox damage, the town will only repair or replace
are exceptions, including: residential signs not more than two mailboxes having actual contact with snow removal equip-
square feet in total area; temporary political signs; historic ment, not mailboxes damaged by the force of snow being
plaques issued by the Ridgefield Historical Society. Also plowed.
exempted are temporary signs for special events for non-resi- When installing your mailbox and its post, take into account
dential uses in residential areas, such as religious institutions the rigors of snow removal. Consider positioning your mailbox
or nonprofit agencies. These signs may not exceed six square to minimize the force of snow that will be pushed against it.
feet, may not be posted more than two weeks prior to a special
event, must be posted only on the property where the event How do I get a burn permit?
takes place, may not be in any street right-of-way, and must be Burn permits are issued by the fire marshal’s office at Fire
taken down promptly after the event has taken place. Headquarters, 6 Catoonah Street. You may fill out a form at
Real estate “for sale” signs may not exceed four square feet. the firehouse Monday through Friday from 8 to 4. The fee is
$10. You may burn only brush; a permit is required. Burning
Who is responsible for shoveling snow off side- of leaves is not allowed in Connecticut.
walks?
That is the responsibility of property owners with front- If a tree from my property falls on a town road during
age abutting the sidewalk. Snow must be removed from side- a storm, who is responsible for the clean-up?
walks within eight hours of the end of a storm, but not later If the tree falls within the town right-of-way, the town will
than noon of the following day. If it is not removed within 24 clean it up. Call the highway department at 203-431-2748. Any
hours, the town will hire a contractor to do so at the property part of the tree that falls on private land is the homeowner’s
owner’s expense. Snow plowed or shoveled out at the end of responsibility.
a driveway should be put to the side, not out into the road.
Violators may be fined. Whom do I call about hazardous trees?
Homeowners should shovel or plow their driveways so all For trees on the public right-of-way, call Tree Warden John
SEE HOW BEAUTIFUL THE

WORLD LOOKS IN COLOR
Specializing in 1, 2, 3, & 4 Color Offset Printing
��
��
�� At Ridgefield Printing,
��
�� COLOR is what we do!!
��
�� Let us show you how!
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
www.ridgefieldprinting.com
�� Route 7 • Ridgefield, CT • 203/431-0421
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Property Issues 35
Pinchbeck at 203-431-2358.
What is radon gas? How serious is it?

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that is a naturally occur-
ring decay product of radioactive uranium. It may increase
the risk of lung cancer and occurs in this area. Radon gas gets
into homes through cracks in foundations, block walls, sump
pumps, drains and other openings in cellar floors and walls. It
can also be released into the air by running water from faucets
and showers if the source of water is a well with high levels of
radon.
The simplest way to find out if your home has high levels
of radon is a carbon filter test, which can be done by the hom-
eowner. Kits are available at area hardware stores, private labs,
or may be purchased by calling the Radon Hotline — 1-800-
SOS-RADON — operated by the National Safety Council.
Is there municipal garbage collection?

No. Trash pick-up is a resident’s responsibility. Numerous ��
companies serve Ridgefield. In addition to trash, garbage com-
panies collect recyclables. ��
Can I take care of my garbage myself? ��
You may take your own trash to the refuse transfer station
on South Street. You must first get a free permit from town
hall (bring your car registration). Using a car requires either ��
tokens or money for the amount of garbage. Passenger cars
with 120 pounds or less of household garbage may purchase ��
a token ($5) at the scalehouse and then go on to the transfer ��
house without weighing in. Trucks and passenger cars with ��
more than 120 pounds must weigh in and will be charged four
cents per pound. Demolition materials and large household ��
items such as carpeting, mattresses, etc., must be weighed and ��
will be charged four cents per pound. There are additional
charges for scrap metal, brush, leaves, and tires. Brush in ��
excess of five inches in diameter, stumps, logs, and grass clip- ��
pings will not be accepted.
The transfer station is open Monday to Saturday from 7:30 ��
a.m. to 3 p.m. For information, call 203-431-4137.
��
What will they not take at the transfer station? ��
The transfer station will not take hazardous materials,
including chemicals of any kind. A detailed list is on the town ��
Web site ridgefieldct.org; click on Transfer Station. You may ��
also call 203-431-4137. Call town hall (203-431-2700) for
information on periodic hazardous waste collections. (See ��
below.) ��
Where does the town’s garbage go?

In essence, it comes back to Ridgefield in the form of
electrical energy. Ridgefield is a member of the Housatonic
Resource Recovery Authority, which oversees municipal waste
utilization in 10 towns. The transfer station on South Street
collects more than 10,000 tons of garbage every year. The gar-
bage is hauled to an energy-conversion center in Bridgeport,
��
which burns the trash, producing steam, which is then con-
verted into electrical energy through a generator. The resulting ��
megawatts are sent to a regional distribution utility which puts
it up for sale on the regional power grid. ��
��
Where can I get rid of my hazardous waste?
A regional hazardous waste collection day takes place
every fall at the Danbury Public Works Department. This year
it is Saturday, Sept. 25, from 9 to 2. Area towns including
Ridgefield participate to reduce costs; the program is free to
residents (proof of residency required). The spring collection
event is on May 21 from 9 to 2 at the Newtown Public Works
��
��
��
��

��
��

��
��
��
��
��
��

��
��
��
��
��
��
��
WE’RE PART OF �� COMMUNITY.
At Union Savings Bank, we take great pride in our communities.

That’s why, in addition to supporting our customers through a variety of
financial products and services; we also support our communities through
financial donations and employee involvement. We’re proud of the people
who make up our vibrant community.
unionsavings.com
203.830.4200
866.872.1866
Member FDIC
38 Property Issues/Utilities The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
facility. For details, visit the Housatonic Resources Recovery

Authority Web site at hrra.org. Utilities
What do I recycle and where do I take it? Who provides electric power?
The Ridgefield Recycling Center will take glass bottles Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) provides electricity.
and jars; aluminum, steel, tin and aerosol cans; plastic #1-6 For customer service — or for downed, burned, or hanging
bottles but only ones with necks; newspapers, magazines, wires or if you see a flash or hear a loud noise — call 800-
brown grocery bags and catalogues; corrugated cardboard; alu- 286-2000 any time (TTY/TDD: 800-842-0010).
minum foil and trays; white office paper, computer paper and The utility’s Web site is cl-p.com. The site includes an
mixed paper (junk mail, cards, manila folders, colored paper); “outage map” showing a town by town listing of customers
phone books; milk and juice cartons and aseptic containers reported without electricity during and after storms or due to
(frozen food and ice cream containers); and plastic bags. technical problems.
It will not accept annual reports, automotive products, The company’s Web site also offers advice and incentives.
books, brown envelopes, carbon forms, chipboard, coated copy like rebates on your bill, for making your home and electrical
paper wrappers, diskettes, FedEx envelopes, folders, goldenrod appliances more energy efficient.
envelopes, oils, light bulbs, mirrors, oil containers, paint cans, There are also answers to power outage questions such as
plastic pails and toys, polystyrene (Styrofoam), red rope, spiral why a neighbor’s electricity is restored before yours, who gets
binders, waxed paper, white goods, wood, fruit and vegetable power back first and whether a home generator is a safe bet.
boxes, or hazardous and infectious waste. Scrap metal and
yard waste may be left at the transfer station. Where does our water come from?
The Recycling Center (203-431-2343), open 7:30 to 3, Aquarion, the community’s water company, delivers water
Tuesday through Saturday, next to the transfer station, at through its Bridgeport-based distribution system and wells in
59 South Street. A detailed list of what is accepted and not Ridgefield.
accepted for recycling is online at ridgefieldct.org, click on Smaller private water companies exist at the Ridgefield
Recycling. Motor oil, for example, should be taken to a service Knolls and Ridgefield Lakes, and make use of wells.
station. Household hazardous waste should be disposed of at Otherwise, homes are served by their own wells, which tap
collection days and sites. into underground streams or aquifers.
Can I recycle a cell phone? What parts of town have public water?
Ridgefield’s Department of Social Services provides Aquarion (800-732-9678/aquarion.com) serves the central
seniors and the disabled with deactivated cell phones capable and west central parts of town. This stretches down Route
of reaching 911. To donate old phones with chargers, call 33 south to St. Johns Road and north along Route 35 to
Mary Ann Baldwin at 203-431-2777. Farmingville. Going toward New York, it reaches up to the
Eleven Levels area and out West Lane.
Small water companies serve parts of the Ridgefield Lakes
and the Knolls.
�� How much does water company water cost?
�� Aquarion charged $2.408 per 100 cubic feet (748 gallons)
for the first 42,000 cubic feet, then $1.551 per 100 cubic feet
�� over 42,000 in 2009. There was also a quarterly service charge
of $23.41 or $35.11 depending on the meter size.
Will I have water if my power goes out?

If you’re on public water, there will still be water. However,
many families use wells with electrically powered pumps. If
there’s no power, these pumps cannot pull the water into the
house. If yours is a home with a pump, don’t count on water
during an outage, unless you have a power generator.
What parts of town have sewer service?

There are three sewer districts. The districts and their rates
are: District I, South Street, $390; District II, Route 7, $340;
�� District III, Turner Hill, $320
�� A new hook-up is $5,700 in Sewer Area I (village district)
�� and $1,750 in Sewer Area II (business district). Arrangements
�� can be made to pay the hook-up fee over a 10-year period with
a 3% annual interest charge.
Who offers cable TV?

Comcast in Danbury (1-800-COMCAST) covers
Ridgefield. Services include basic cable, digital cable, digital
phone, and high-speed Internet. Details are on the Web site at
�� comcast.com.
�� Satellite TV and Internet TV provide other options out there
these days.
��
��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
��
� ��
� ��
��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� � ��
��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
��
��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
� ��
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Emergency Services 43
Emergency Services
In an emergency how do I get fire, police or ambu- medics. Both ambulances are equipped with defibrillators.
lance help? The fire engine at Station II in Ridgebury is equipped with
Call 911. Only emergencies, such as injuries, accidents, emergency medical equipment, including a defibrillator, and
crimes in progress, fires, and medical emergencies should be responds to all EMS calls in Ridgebury and in town when
reported to 911. Information questions and calls that are not needed.
emergencies tie up the lines and real emergencies cannot be
reported. Where will the ambulance take me?
The ambulance will take you to Danbury Hospital unless
Who answers the 911 line? you request it to go to Norwalk Hospital.
The Ridgefield Police answer local 911 calls. There is a
statewide mobile 911 system that enables dispatchers to quick- How much does an ambulance call cost me?
ly track a cell phone caller’s location anywhere in the state. All rates are established by the state, but may vary due to
Medicare and Medicaid rules. In 2009, the rate for a Basic
Where is the nearest emergency room? Life Support call was $501. A Level 1 Advanced Life Support
The nearest emergency room is at Danbury Hospital on call (ambulance plus paramedic) was $858. An Advanced Life
Locust Street; call 203-797-7100. Support Helicopter Assist is $510. There is a mileage charge
There is also an emergency room in Norwalk Hospital on of $14.14 per mile. There are other special charges that may
Maple Street. Call 203-852-2160. accrue.
An outside service bills a patient’s insurance company
What kind of emergency ambulance service does and/or Medicare. If someone is suffering financial constraints
Ridgefield provide? and is having difficulty paying the balance of the bill, they are
The town has two advanced life support ambulances at the encouraged to speak in confidence with Mary Ann Baldwin,
Catoonah Street station and a paramedic service on duty 24 Ridgefield’s director of social services at 203-431-2777.
hours a day. The paramedics can provide resuscitation and
advanced life support and respond to ambulance calls in spe- Where is the fire headquarters?
cial paramedic vehicles. The ambulances themselves are oper- Fire headquarters (203-431-2724) is at 6 Catoonah Street,
ated by the town’s career firefighters, who are also qualified near the post office. The fire department also has a substation
Emergency Medical Technicians, including eight who have at 169 Old Stagecoach Road in Ridgebury. The fire marshal’s
had advanced training. (On the volunteer side, five members office (203-431-2729) is at 6 Catoonah Street.
are EMTs and six are MRTs.) A dozen firefighters are certified On-duty firefighters staff two engines, one at headquarters
��
44 Emergency Services The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
and the other at Station II in Ridgebury. Thirty-three career What kind of equipment does the fire department
firefighters are supplemented by 50 volunteer members have?
— firefighters, fire police, and support personnel — and eight The department has three pumpers, two tankers, two ambu-
dispatchers. lances, a rescue truck, ladder truck, and assorted smaller vehi-
Firefighters have been trained in motor vehicle rescue, han- cles. The two full-time engines are equipped with the Jaws of
dling of hazardous materials, confined space and high-angle Life, water rescue equipment, oxygen (with masks for humans,
rescue, cold water and ice rescue, and more. dogs, and cats), air bags, lights and a wide assortment of life-
saving tools.
Who runs the fire department in town?
The fire chief is Heather L. Burford. She may be reached at How many calls does the fire department answer?
203-431-2726 (rfdchief@ridgefieldct.org). The fire marshal is In 2008, the department responded to 3,279 calls, including
David A. Lathrop. He may be reached at 203-431-2729 (firem 1,952 medical calls, 65 fire incidents, 242 hazardous incidents
arshal@ridgefieldct.org). (carbon monoxide, hazardous materials and fuel spills), 449
service calls and 401 automatoic fire alarms.
How can I become a volunteer firefighter?
To become a volunteer firefighter, you must fill out an If I need the fire department, will I get billed?
application and pass a training program. For more information No.
on becoming a volunteer, call 203-431-2730 or stop by the sta-
tion. Must my fire alarm be registered?
All monitored fire alarm systems must be registered with
Is there a ladies auxiliary? the Ridgefield Fire Department. There is no fee. Call 203-
Yes, the group meets the second Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. 431-2726 or e-mail fire@ridgefieldct.org to request a form.
(September through June) at 6 Catoonah Street. Call 203-431- You can also download it from the fire department Web site at
2725 for information. ridgefieldct.org.
What is the starting salary for a paid firefighter? Can the fire department gain emergency entry to my
The base salary as of July 1, 2009 was $44,863, and that home?
was expected to increase about 3% this year. All new firefight- Yes, if you have a Knox box. This is a key lock box
ers are required to be EMTs, which would add about $2,000 mounted near the front door containing keys, electronic access
to their base salary and many are fire medics, which would cards, floor plans and other emergency information. The key
approximately another $1,600. to the Knox box is on the fire truck or ambulance, so the fire
department can get inside when responding to an alarm. For
information, call 203-431-2726 or e-mail fire@ridgefieldct.
org. Sample Knox boxes are at fire headquarters.
Where is the police department?

The police department is at 76 East Ridge Road, at the
corner of Governor Street, one block east of Main Street. For
routine matters, call 203-438-6531. The detective division can
be reached at 203-431-2794. The drug tip hotline is 203-431-
2345. Headquarters is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The police chief is John Roche.
��
�� How many policemen does the town have?
Ridgefield has a chief of police, one major, three captains,
�� five lieutenants, five sergeants, 26 officers, and seven civilian
personnel. As many as eight police officers cover the town,
depending on shift and available staff.
The officers in the uniform division — recognizable in their
gray and maroon — patrol by car or motorcycle and offer aid
�� to motorists.
�� There is also a bike patrol, which focuses on the Main
Street area and Copps Hill area of town.
�� The department also maintains a six-member honor guard
and provides funeral escorts for families.
��
�� Is there a K-9 unit?
Yes, a German shepherd dog named Zeus patrols with
�� Officer Shawn Murray. Zeus’s skills include finding drugs,
tracking lost people, and crowd control.
��
Is there a youth officer?
�� Det. Mark Giglio is responsible for investigating all juve-
�� nile cases handled by the police. He also investigates adult
�� cases and teaches DARE classes.
The School Resources Officer is Officer Fernando Luis.
��
��

��
��
��
��
��
� � � � � � � � � ��
��

��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
� � � � � � ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
46 Emergnecy Services The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
What are the town’s police activity statistics? DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) is offered to
Ridgefield Police have dealt with nearly 17,000 incidents fifth and seventh graders. The emphasis is to help students
between January and Oct. 31, 2009, everything from fright- recognize and resist pressures that influence them to experi-
ened person calls to narcotics arrests. Connecticut Magazine ment with alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other dangerous
found Ridgefield’s crime rate is lower than any other town substances.
in its population group (from 15,000 to 25,000). It placed the GRADD (Government of Ridgefield Against Drunk
crime rate at 0.45 per 1,000 residents, based on statistics from Driving) is a cooperative effort among the police, students,
2004, 2005 and 2006, in such major crimes as murder, rape, teachers, and citizens to ensure a safe and sober graduation
robbery, aggravated assault, burglary and car theft. period for students.
For the first 10 months of 2009, police reported 3,589 The department also organizes a Halloween party for
motor vehicle incidents, including stops, tickets and warn- Ridgefield children at the recreation center on Oct. 31 that fea-
ings; the department investigated 543 auto accidents and there tures a haunted house, costume parade, refreshments and prizes.
were 22 driving under the influence arrests; responded to 102
domestic incidents (141 in 2008), made 34 narcotics-related Is there a Neighborhood Watch Program?
arrests; reported 12 burglaries, 50 incidents of larceny from Ridgefield has 50 neighborhoods involved in this program.
a motor vehicle, 37 identity theft and 13 Internet and e-mail For information, call Capt. Clifford Scharf at 203-431-2797.
scams. There were 25 incidents involving juveniles, nine
minors arrested on alcohol-related charges and 10 investiga- What is the Citizen Police Academy?
tions for missing or runaway persons during that period. The police department’s Citizen Police Academy is open to
Other statistics included 906 burglar alarms, 273 medical as- Ridgefielders 18 or older. It is a nine-week program designed
sists, 73 deer dead and tagged, 112 noise complaints, 210 citi- to educate participants about different aspects of police work.
zens fingerprinted as a service, 99 reports of criminal mischief, Classes may include Crime Scene Investigation, Computer
133 hang-up 911 calls, and 40 frightened person reports. Crimes, Laws of Arrest, and Firearms Safety. It does not train
The town issued more pistol permits, 72, up from the previous or authorize anyone to act as a police officer. To register, call
year’s 50. Capt. Clifford Scharf at 203-431-2797.
What is the salary of a beginning police officer? I need to be fingerprinted for an application. Will the
The latest contract sets starting police salaries at $53,904 as police do it for me?
of July 1, 2009; $55,791 as of July 1, 2010; and $57,744 as of The police will do fingerprints for residents for pistol permit
July 1, 2011. applications, employment applications, citizenship and local
business employment needs. Call 438-6531 for information.
Are the police involved in any community programs?
The police department sponsors several community programs. Do I need to register my burglar alarm?
Yes, residents are required to register their security alarms
with the police department’s records division. A registration
form must be filled out.
Is there a fee for false alarms?

Yes. Fines for false alarms are issued monthly. There is
no charge for the first false alarm. The second and third false
alarm in a month carry a $25 fine. The fourth and subsequent
false alarms in a month carry a $50 penalty.
What is CERT?
�� It stands for Community Emergency Response Team. Ridge-
203-438-4423 field’s CERT is trained by the Department of Emergency Man-
www.wintergardenarena.com agement, led by Fire Chief Heather Burford and Deputy Man-
ager Dick Aarons. The free program aims to teach citizens how
SKATING AND HOCKEY to protect their families and neighbors in the event of natural or
man-made disasters — hurricanes, ice storms, terrorist attacks
PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES — in case the area is shut off from emergency services due to
��Youth Hockey ��Adult Hockey roadblocks or more pressing emergencies.
��Learn to Skate Programs for Ages 4 to Adult CERT members have been dispatched in a number of ways
��Ice Mice Skating Program for Ages 3 to 6 in town, such as in helping to organize the town’s emergency
supplies, taking appointments for the H1N1 vaccine, and pro-
��August Hockey Camps & Fall Clinics viding assistance during major town events like the Family
Fourth. Once you’re a trained member of a CERT, the program
PUBLIC SKATING offers a number of additional classes you may choose to take
STICK & PUCK SESSIONS to expand your knowledge and focus on a specific area. CERT
September�May has a number of specialized teams that members may join in
areas of communications, emergency sheltering, rehabilitation,
the State Animal Response team — responsible for sheltering
animals in emergencies — and team members who wish to
work in the Emergency Operations Center at the Yanity Gym.
The next CERT course in Ridgefield starts in the fall. If you
Ice Rinks Are Warmer Than You Think! have any questions or want to learn more contact Mr. Aarons at
raarons@snet.net.
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Emergency Services 47
What is “Are You OK?”, and how do I sign up for the ing to their voting district.
service? The health department will provide information in the event
Volunteers in the “Are You OK?” program make a round of of a public health crisis. The department would coordinate an
calls to senior citizens in town to check up on their well being inoculation center/clinic with the support of the Ridgefield
each day. Sponsored by the Ridgefield Woman’s Club, the ser- Visiting Nurses Association. Volunteer nurses, doctors, phar-
vice on the second floor of the Ridgefield Fire Department has macists, mental health workers, and non-medical volunteers
been manned by volunteers for many years. About 25 seniors are needed and may call the health department at 203-431-
receive calls from "Are You OK?" each morning around 8. To 2745.
subscribe, seniors may leave a message at 203-438-6777, and a Social Services director Mary Ann Baldwin (203-431-2777)
volunteer will call back to collect information, including emer- is collecting the names of senior citizens and disable people
gency contacts and family. who would need transportation during an emergency, whether
it be a natural or manmade disaster.
What should I do in the event of an emergency? In the event of a power outage, Connecticut Light & Power
For emergencies like widespread blackouts or hurricanes, offers the following tips: Check medications that need refrig-
you might want to listen to radio station WLAD/800 AM, eration. You may want to keep a small cooler handy for that
based in Danbury. purpose. Have a supply of canned, non-perishable food and
The town has set up an Emergency Operations Center drinking water that will last a couple of days. Get extra ice and
to coordinate all town agencies in the event of an emergency put it in plastic bags. This will help maintain the temperature
such as an enormous loss of power, an ice storm, or a hur- in your refrigerator and freezer.
ricane. It is not a shelter. The town’s head of emergency man- When you have advance notice, such as with a coming
agement is Fire Chief Heather Burford. storm, set aside water. Fill the bathtub with water for toilets;
The town also has implemented a reverse 911 system to a bucket in the bowl is all that’s needed for flushing. You can
notify residents in the event of a major townwide emergency. buy bottled water for drinking. Be prepared to cook outside,
Residents whose numbers are published in the phone book but don’t bring grills into the house.
have automatically been added to the system. Those with Stock up on batteries for a battery-powered radio and flash-
unlisted numbers may participate by filling out a form and lights, and have extra wood for fireplaces or wood stoves. Fill
sending it to the Ridgefield Fire Department. You may down- your car’s gas tank. Unplug sensitive electrical equipment like
load the form from the town Web site, click on Emergency computers and VCRs. Stay away from downed power lines.
Preparedness. For larger emergencies, you may want to check the infor-
There are three shelters in town that will provide food, mation at redcross.org. For information on regional alert sta-
water, and sleeping accommodations: Scotts Ridge Middle tus, you may check online at ready.gov and the Department of
School, Branchville Elementary School, and Yanity Gym. In Homeland Security Web site dhs.gov.
the event they are needed, residents would be directed accord-
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
�� # ��# ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Religion 49
Religion
What houses of worship are in town? change so it is a good idea to call ahead.
Chabad Jewish Center, 54 Danbury Road, Suite
312, 748-4421 (ChabadRidgefield.com/e-mail contact: Are there Bible study programs?
Rabbi@ChabadRidgefield.com); Ridgefield Baptist offers Women’s Bible Study the first
First Church of Christ, Scientist, 260 Main Street, 203- and third Wednesday of the month at 9:30 a.m.
438-4780 christiansciencect.org/ridgefield/); St. Mary’s offers “The Great Adventure Series” by Jeff
First Congregational, 103 Main Street, 203-438-8077 Cavins on Monday mornings and Monday evenings. Call Mary
(firstcongregational.com); Jo Calamai at 203-431-1309 or Bev Scott at 914-763-6243.
Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist, 207 Main Street, Jesse Lee Memorial offers Morning Bible Study on
203-438-8791 (jesseleechurch.com); Wednesdays at 10, and Women’s Bible study on Thursday
Ridgebury Congregational, 602 Ridgebury Road, 203- mornings at 9:30.
748-2806 (ridgeburychurch.org); St. Andrew’s offers Spiritual Partners, which is a program
Ridgefield Baptist, 325 Danbury Road, 203-438-5751 of selected biblical readings followed by conversation with a
(ridgefieldbaptist.org); partner.
Ridgefield Baha’i Community, P.O. Box 424, Ridgefield
06877, 203-544-6021; What is Young Life?
St. Andrew’s Lutheran (ELCA), 6 Ivy Hill Road, 203- Young Life is an international, non-denominational orga-
438-0606 (standrewselca.com); nization that strives to introduce the Christian faith to young
St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic, 520 Ridgebury Road, 203- people in an attractive and meaningful way and provides car-
438-7292 (stsetonridgefield.com); ing adult role models who will help them navigate the chal-
St. Ignatius Retreat House, 209 Tackora Trail, 431-0201; lenges of adolescence. Open to high school students, Young
St. Mary Roman Catholic, 183 High Ridge, 438-6538 Life meets weeknights during the school year. WyldLife
(stmarysridgefield.org); serves students in middle school and meets on weekend nights
St. Stephen’s Episcopal, 351 Main Street, 438-3789 (stste- during the school year. Summer and school year camping trips
phens-ridgefield.org); are also available to both high school and middle school stu-
Temple Shearith Israel (Reform), 46 Peaceable Street, dents.
438-6589 (tsiridgefield.org). For details, call Area Director Tim Vickers at 203-205-0975
For information on services, call the church or temple. or e-mail tim@ridgefieldct.younglife.org. The Web site is
Occassionally The Ridgefield Press runs this information ridgefieldct.younglife.org.
under Religious Services. During holidays service times often
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
50 Health The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Health
How can I find a good family doctor? Is there a clearinghouse of information on home
You may call the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association at health care?
203-438-5555 with offices at 90 East Ridge Road for a list of Home Health Compare allows consumers to see clinical
area physicians. However, the association is unable to make information about home health agency quality. The service
a recommendation. Area hospitals will also offer referrals for is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human
affiliated doctors. For Norwalk Hospital, call 203-852-2609 Services. It is available online at medicare.gov.
or visit norwalkhosp.org; for Danbury Hospital, call 203-
7797-7001 or visit danburyhospital.org. What is hospice and palliative care? Who offers
these services?
Do any doctors take walk-in patients? Hospice and palliative care focuses on pain relief, symptom
There are none in town. In Wilton there is Wilton Medical control and comfort for terminally ill patients, allowing them
Walk In Clinic (203-834-8885) at 35 Danbury Road. to be cared for where they are most comfortable, usually at
In Norwalk, there’s Primary Medical Care Center (203- home. The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association (203-438-
849-7777/pmcc-ohc.com) at 345 Main Avenue. 5555/ridgefieldvna.org) offers palliative care.
Regional Hospice of Western Connecticut, a nonprofit,
What does the health department do? Medicare-certified agency, serves Ridgefield with three pro-
The Ridgefield Health Department ensures the health and grams. CARES at Home serves patients still seeking curative
safety of the public by providing preventative, educational, treatments; the hospice program is for patients with serious,
and regulatory services. It is staffed by Director of Health chronic, or life-limiting illnesses; Healing Hearts is a free
Edward Briggs, Sanitarian H. Barbara Hock and Mary Ellen bereavement program for children and adults. Call 203-797-
Miller, office administrator. 1685 or visit regionalhospicect.org.
A primary responsibility of the staff is enforcement of the
Connecticut Public Health Code. This may include inspect- Is there a clearinghouse of health services?
ing and approving wells, public swimming pools and bathing Infoline of Southwest Connecticut offers information and
areas, septic systems, subdivisions, building additions, daycare referrals on adult day care, nutrition, home care, respite care,
centers, schools, housing and lead paint, or complaint inves- health services, mental health, social services, legal services,
tigations. The office also conducts food service establishment transportation, financial services, and other topics. Call 211 or
inspections, and food-borne illness outbreak investigation, visit 211infoline.org.
communicable disease follow-up, and emergency response The Connecticut Self-Help Network is a statewide clear-
planning. Public health education materials are also provided inghouse for all support groups across the state. Its Self-Help
on a variety of topics such as water treatment, radon, and Directory lists more than 1,450 local and statewide groups
Lyme disease. dealing with abuse, addictions, bereavement, disabilities,
The health department can be reached at 203-431-2745. The health, mental health, parenting, and many other stressful life
office is in the Town Hall Annex at 66 Prospect Street and is situations. It also has contact information for more than 1,000
open from 8 to 4, Monday through Friday. national networks. For information, call 203-624-6982.
Is there a nursing home in town? How does the town help the handicapped?
Laurel Ridge Health Care Center, 642 Danbury Road Carole Konner, the municipal agent for the disabled
(438-8226/athenahealthcare.com/lr) is a skilled nursing facility. (203-431-2754), can provide information on all social services
Quality-related information on nursing homes is available available, including entitlement programs, CONN-PACE,
online at medicare.gov. energy assistance, home visits, assessments, and transportation.
She also offers referrals for medical, housing, and other social
How can I arrange for home care? service programs.
Call the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association at 203- Ridgefield also has a Commission for the Disabled, an
438-5555 or have your physician or a friend call. For those advocacy group that helps fight for the needs of the disabled.
coming home from the hospital or a rehab facility, the hospital If you have a problem or suggestion, write Chairman Emma
case manager or social worker can call the Ridgefield VNA to Lou Benedict, Commission for the Disabled, Ridgefield Town
arrange your home care. Hall, 400 Main Street, Ridgefield.
Home care services provided by the Ridgefield VNA The town uses SweetHART buses that offer door-to-door
include home care nurses, short-term rehab at home, home service and will also go to Danbury; call 203-748-2511. Ms.
health aides, home makers, companions, live-ins, senior care Konner issues certification for Sweet-HART buses.
management, medical social work services, IV therapy, dietary FISH, a volunteer organization, provides transportation
counseling, travel vaccine consultation/immunizations, home to dental and medical appointments in Wilton, Norwalk,
telemonitoring, Lifeline Medical Alert Service, wound care, Danbury and Ridgefield. Advance notice of two businesses
and palliative care. The association’s Web site is ridgfieldvna. days is required. Be prepared to give detailed information on
org. where, when, and how long (if it is a hospital appointment) the
The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association also offers appointment is. A volunteer will contact you directly. Call 203-
Family Care Services for seniors, young families and infants 438-8044.
and toddlers. Home health aides will assist with light house-
keeping, laundry, bathing, shopping, meal preparation, trans- When are the local pharmacies open?
portation, companionship, and personal care such as feeding, Bissell Pharmacy, 23 Governor Street, (203-438-6600/bis-
dressing, bathing and toileting. Call the RVNA at 203-438- sellpharmacy.com) is open 9 to 6 Monday through Friday,
5555. Saturdays 9 to 5 and Sundays 9 to 1; the pharmacy at CVS,
467 Main Street (203-431-8888/cvs.com) is open (pharmacy
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Health 51
section) 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 to 8 Are there CPR classes in town?
Saturdays and 8 to 6 Sundays ; the pharmacy at Rite Aid in The Ridgefield Fire Department (203-431-2726) offers
the Copps Hills Plaza, 125 Danbury Road, (203-438-7378) is courses on a regular basis. The Red Cross in Danbury (203-
open 8 to 8 Monday through Friday, Saturdays from 9 to 6 and 792-8200) and the Mid-Fairfield County Chapter of the
Sundays 9 to 5; the Stop & Shop pharmacy, also in Copps American Red Cross (227-9505) also offer classes. You may
Hill, is open Monday through Friday, 8 to 8, Saturday, 9 to 5 also check with Ridgefield Adult Education at 203-431-9995
and Sunday, 9 to 3; the pharmacy at Walgreens at 46 Danbury or online at ridgefieldschools.org.
Road (203-894-8744/walgreens.com) is open Monday through
Friday from 8 to 10, Saturday and Sunday from 9 to 6. Is there an annual health fair in town?
For 24-hour pharmacies, there are CVS (203-847-2351) at The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association hosts a health
235 Main Street and Walgreen’s (203-845-0457/walgreens. fair every spring with dozens of free medical screening and
com) at 55 Westport Avenue, both in Norwalk. There is also a information areas for all ages. Call RVNA (203-438-5555) for
Walgreen’s (203-791-0405) at 75-83 Main Street in Danbury. details or visit ridgefieldvna.org.
How do I get a handicap parking permit or license Does Ridgefield have a travel health clinic?
plate? The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association has a travel
You may apply for a permit or disability plates at the health clinic that offers comprehensive travel consultations/
Department of Motor Vehicles, 2 Lee Mac Avenue, Danbury; immunizations to travelers age 18 and over. Call RVNA at
540 Main Avenue in Norwalk; or the satellite office at 888 203-438-5555 for more information.
Washington Boulevard in Stamford. Applicants must provide
proof of disability with form B-225. Call 800-842-8222. Are there flu and pneumonia clinics in town?
For more information, call the municipal agent for the dis- The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association offers flu,
abled at 203-431-2754. pneumonia, and if necessary H1N1 flu (swine flu) shots at
several convenient clinics around town. Dates and times will
Who organizes blood drives? How can I give? be listed in local papers, on te RVNA Web site, or by phone at
The American Red Cross (203-792-8200), which has a 203-438-5555. A flu and pneumonia postcard will be mailed in
chapter office in Danbury, needs blood donors all the time. September. (If you have not received this postcard in the past
Call to find out when and where a convenient blood drive will and would like to be on the mailing list, call 203-438-5555.)
be operating. Flu shots will also be available on Election Day at all polling
The Red Cross also need volunteers. Blood donation inqui- places from 9 to 2.
ries: bloodct@usa.redcross.org. Connecticut Chapter of the Pneumonia vaccinations are available at all flu clinics.
American Red Cross Web site: ctredcross.org. Toll-free num- See ridgefieldvna.org for a complete list of those at risk. Call
ber: 1-877-287-3327. RVNA at 203-438-5555 for details.
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
� ��
��
��
��
��
��
� ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
What about the vaccine for shingles? a sliding scale available. Appointments are necessary; call
The Ridgefield VNA has the shingles vaccine; a single RVNA at 203-438-5555.
dose is indicated for adults 60 years of age and older. A doc-
tor’s prescription and appointment are required. There is a fee. Is there help for new mothers?
Call 203-438-5555. The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association offers a mater-
nal child care program for new moms. A newborn assessment,
What vaccines are available for young adults? a daytime support hotline and help with feeding, bathing,
The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association offers meningo- dressing as well as light housekeeping and meal preparation
coccal vaccinations during clinics held in the summer. Clinics are some of the services offered. For more information call
are geared towards college bound freshmen who are at a mod- RVNA at 203-438-5555.
estly increased risk of this disease. The CDC and American
Academy of Pediatrics recommend this vaccine for all adoles- Is there free blood pressure screening in town?
cents beginning at age 11-12. Call RVNA at 203-438-5555. The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association has a free blood
The Ridgefield VNA also has human papillomavirus pressure clinic on the first Monday of each month from 9:30
(HPV) vaccine for girls 9-18 at its Well Child Clinic. HPV to 11 at Ballard Green, the first Thursday of each month from
vaccinations are available for women ages 18-26 during regular noon to 1:30 at Founders Hall, the third Monday of each
business hours with a prescription and an appointment. The month from 2 to 3 at the Recreation Center, and the third
CDC recommends all girls 11-12 years of age get this vaccine. Wednesday of each month from 1 to 2 at the RVNA. Call the
It is also recommended for girls and women 13-26 who have RVNA at 203-438-5555 for information; no appointment is
not already received it. There is a fee. Call 203-438-5555 for necessary.
details.
How about cholesterol screenings?
Are young children screened for hearing or sight Free cholesterol screenings are offered each year during the
problems? Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association’s Annual Health Fair.
The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association offers pre- For information call RVNA 203-438-5555.
school vision and hearing screenings during the Annual Health
Fair held in the spring. What health-related support groups are there?
Al-Anon and CODA meet at the Ridgefield VNA on a
Are there local well-child clinics? weekly basis. Call 203-438-5555 for a schedule. The Lyme,
Well child, sports, camp, and school physicals and required Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia Support Group meets the sec-
immunizations are offered through the year at the RVNA’s ond Thursday of each month from noon to 1, at the Ridgefield
Well Child Clinic for children from newborn through age 18. VNA office. Call Jennifer Reid at 203-431-0462.
The cost is $50 including all required immunizations with Periodically, Regional Hospice will hold a bereavement
support group in town. Call 203-797-1685, ext. 37 for infor-
mation.
�� There are many other support groups in Ridgefield and
surrounding towns. Check with Norwalk and Danbury
Hospitals, the American Cancer Society (203-563-0740) or
call Mary Ann Baldwin, director of social services, at 203-
431-2777.
Call Infoline at 800-203-1234 for a list of statewide support
groups and agencies that provide assistance.
What is SPHERE?
SPHERE Inc. (Special People Housing Education
Recreation Employment) is a not-for-profit corporation that
develops and promotes programs that enable adults with dis-
abilities in Ridgefield to be independent and have meaningful
lives. For information about the group, e-mail Valerie Jensen at
valerie703@yahoo.com or visit spherect.org.
�� Where can I find information about cancer preven-
�� tion, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support
services?
�� The American Cancer Society’s 24-hour, information line,
�� 1-800-ACS-2345 and Web site, cancer.org, can help anyone
better understand a cancer diagnosis. The American Cancer
�� Society provides free rides to-and-from cancer treatment, one-
on-one personal support for breast cancer patients, and free
wigs and beauty classes to help women with the side effects of
�� treatment. Volunteers are always needed for these programs;
�� call 1-800-889-3340 and press 3 to volunteer or for more

information.
Where can I find free transportation to-and-from my

�� cancer treatments?
�� The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery pro-
gram provides free transportation for cancer patients to-and- psychiatric service with both over-the-phone crisis help and
from their treatment. Call 1-800-889-3340 and press 3 for treatment workers who can travel to a person’s home or other
information. Volunteer drivers are also needed. location to manage psychiatric emergencies in children up to
age 17. For information, call 203-748-5689. In a crisis, call
Are there substance abuse treatment centers around 866-543-2774.
here? Family Center Services (203-852-2988) offers services in
MCCA (Midwestern CT Council on Alcoholism), with affiliation with Norwalk Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry.
an office in the Richard E. Venus Municipal Building, offers New Heights, a program of Catholic Charities, is a psy-
residential and outpatient programs, assessments and referrals. chosocial rehabilitation program for adults with mental illness
Call 203-438-8680. The main office is at 38 Old Ridgebury at 66 West Street in Danbury. For information, call 203-794-
Road in Danbury. Call 203-792-4515. The Web site is mccaon- 0819.
line.com. There is an adolescent residential treatment program Mental health services are also available through these
at 57 West Rocks Road in Norwalk (203-847-4814). hospitals: Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan (866-542-
Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan (800-899-4455/silver- 4455/silverhillhospital.org); Four Winds Hospital in Cross
hillhospital.org) has inpatient programs for addictive disorders. River, N.Y. (914-763-8151); St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health
St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health Services, formerly Hall- Services in Westport (203-227-1251); Danbury Hospital
Brooke (203-277-1251/hallbrooke.org) has inpatient programs (203-797-7000); and Psychiatric Services at Yale, through
at its Westport location. Outpatient services are available at Yale-New Haven Hospital (800-275-9253).
Hall-Brooke in Norwalk. For information about supervised apartments or for consul-
Norwalk Hospital has a wide range of mental health and tations, call the Mental Health Association of Connecticut’s
substance abuse services on both an inpatient and outpatient Supported Living Community (203-797-8621 or 203-798-
basis. Call 203-852-2988. 2527). The association has a list of support groups and self-
Four Winds Hospital in Cross River, N.Y. (914-763-8151) help groups throughout the state; call 800-842-1501 or visit
offers the Choices program. online at mhact.org.
The Care Network, a group of three area health care agen-
What type of help is available for the mentally ill and cies, offers treatment, counseling and help in finding commu-
their families? nity resources; call 800-898-HOME.
The Ridgefield Visiting Nursing Association has a psychi- Director of Social Services Mary Ann Baldwin (203-431-
atric nurse who is available to provide psycho-social support, 2777) can also offer referrals.
counseling and medication management at a patient’s home.
Call the RVNA at 203-438-5555. Where can I get help for an eating disorder?
Family and Children’s Aid, 75 West Street, Danbury, Four Winds Hospital in Cross River, N.Y. (914-763-8151),
offers a number of services including a mobile emergency offers inpatient and outpatient services with group and indi-
JOHN FINDORAK
& SONS, INC.
• Well Drilling
��
• Complete Pump & ��
Tank Installations ��
��
• Geothermal Wells ��
��
• Irrigation Wells ��
• Well Hydrofracture
��
��
• Sales & Service ��
for50 years
��
CALL US ��
TO DO THE
“HOLE” ��
JOB!
with NO SUBCONTRACTING ��

vidual therapy. The Wilkins Center for Eating Disorders provides a high level of protection. Safety questions should be
(203-531-1909/wilkinscenter.com) in Greenwich offers out- directed to the National Pesticide Information Center at 1-800-
patient care. Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan (866-542- 858-7378 or npic.orst.edu. Complete information on tick-borne
4455/silverhillhospital.org) offers inpatient and transitional disease prevention and tick management is available online in
living programs. the Tick Management Handbook provided by the Connecticut
The Renfrew Center of Connecticut in Wilton (800- Agricultural Experiment Station at ct.gov/caes.
RENFREW/renfrewcenter.com) offers an intensive outpatient If you do find a tick on your body, it should be removed
program for young people and adults with eating disorders. immediately with a fine tipped tweezer as close to the skin
The center also offers nutritional counseling and support as possible. Engorged ticks (those that have been feeding on
groups. a person and contain blood) may be submitted at the health
department for free testing by the state. Ticks should be
Is there a therapeutic riding program? submitted in a zip-lock bag with name and phone number.
Pegasus Therapeutic Riding (845-669-8235/pegasustr.org) Residents are encouraged not to wait for results before con-
is based in Brewster, N.Y., but offers programs at horse farms sulting with their physician.
throughout Fairfield County. Pegasus helps bring the therapeu- If you notice any questionable or expanding red rash,
tic benefits of horseback riding to handicapped people of all fatigue, headache, stiff neck, fever and/or chills, muscle and/
ages. or joint pain or other flu-like symptoms, see a doctor imme-
diately. Not all people develop the rash. Timely treatment is
Should I worry about Lyme disease here? important. Left untreated, Lyme disease infection can worsen
Lyme disease, spread by blacklegged or deer ticks, is and lead to joint swelling, neurological, cardiac and other seri-
prevalent. The Ridgefield Health Department’s new B.L.A.S.T. ous complications. Tests are most accurate four to six weeks
Lyme Disease prevention program encourages residents to take after infection.
precautions on a daily basis. The most effective steps every Other infections are also carried by the blacklegged ticks
family can take include bathing or showering after outdoor in this area. Anaplasmosis (formerly known as Human
activity, looking for ticks and rashes, applying repellents to Granulocytic Ehrlichiosis) symptoms include high fever, head-
clothing and skin, spraying the perimeter of the yard and treat- ache, chills, malaise, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and vom-
ing pets as the veterinarian recommends. iting. Acute weight loss, low platelet count, and a low white
Products containing DEET will repel ticks and decrease blood cell count can also occur. Babesiosis is a malaria-like
the chances of a tick bite. Studies suggest that for blacklegged illness with symptoms from mild flu-like illness to severe, life-
ticks, DEET concentrations around 30% to 40% may be neces- threatening disease. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, chills,
sary for adequate protection. Several products contain 0.5% sweats, headache and muscle pain beginning one to six weeks
permethrin which is for use only on clothing or other fabrics. after the bite. The disease can be severe or fatal in the elderly,
Permethrin works primarily by killing ticks on contact and the immune-suppressed and people without spleens. One tick
may carry multiple infections.
Where can I get more details on Lyme disease?

��
��
Visit the Town of Ridgefield Health Department Web site at
ridgefieldct.org or call 203-431-2745 for complete information
�� on the B.L.A.S.T. Lyme Disease program, started in 2008, and
related information sources.
��
Contacts: Jennifer Reid, community coordinator, Tick-
borne Disease Prevention Program, Ridgefield Health
�� Department; or Sharon Antunes, assistant health director, at
�� 203-431-2745. Web site: blastlyme@ridgefieldct.org. E-mail:
�� blastlyme@gmail.com.
�� The Ridgefield Lyme Disease Task Force is a non-profit
�� organization focused on decreasing the prevalence of Lyme
disease and other tick-borne illnesses. It meets the second
Sunday of the month in the town hall annex, 66 Prospect
Street, at 3, and holds special events. For more information,
contact RLDTF@comcast.net or call 203-431-7006
��
�� Is there a local Lyme disease support group?
�� The Ridgefield Lyme Disease, Chronic Fatigue and
�� Fibromyalgia Support Group meets the second Thursday of
�� each month from noon to 1 at the Visiting Nurse Association
offices at 90 East Ridge in the Venus Building. For infor-
mation, call Jennifer Reid at 203-431-0462 or e-mail
�� RLDTF@comcast.net. For directions, go to ridgefieldvna.org
�� and click the Community Wellness Programs tab.
�� What is rabies? How prevalent is it in this area?
�� Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that travels
through the body to the brain via the nervous system. Once it
�� reaches the brain, it causes encephalitis, an inflammation of
�� the brain, which results in neurological damage and cannot be
treated. In April 1991 the first two cases of rabid raccoons in
Connecticut were confirmed in Ridgefield. Since then, every repellent. Approved repellents include DEET, Picaridin, and
city and town in the state has had confirmed cases of rabies, a oil of lemon eucalyptus. For information on insect repel-
total of 5,926 cases through Aug. 7, 2007. Raccoons, skunks, lents and their active ingredients, go to the National Pesticide
and bats are the most common carriers of the rabies virus, Information Center at npic.orst.edu or cdc.gov.
however there was an incident with a rabid woodchuck, also Viral encephalitis may not have any symptoms at all; mild
known as a groundhog, on the Wilton-Weston border. cases may include a slight fever and/or headache. Severe
The best way to protect yourself against rabies is to not infections are marked by a rapid onset of a high fever, head
approach or handle wild animals (dead or alive) or strange pets and body aches, and usually occur five to 15 days after expo-
and to keep your own pets vaccinated (see Animals section). sure. There is no specific treatment for viral infections, other
If you believe you have been exposed to rabies, consult a than to alleviate symptoms and provide supportive care. Those
doctor immediately and report the incident to the local health who may be most susceptible to encephalitis are infants, the
department (203-431-2745) and animal control officer (203- elderly and people with damaged immune systems.
431-2711). Because the rabies virus is carried in saliva, the For more information, call the health department at 203-
wound should be washed thoroughly with soap and water. 438-2745.
This decreases the chance of infection. If possible, the ani-
mal should be captured for testing. The Veterinary Medical Does the town spray for West Nile virus?
Association suggests trapping the animal under a large box, The town places a larvicide into catch basins, which pre-
but do not try to handle it. Because the testing procedure for vents mosquito larva from developing into adults.
rabies involves dissecting the brain, the animal must be eutha-
nized in order to be tested. Where is smoking banned?
Once rabies has been contracted, it is nearly always fatal. Smoking is banned in all public buildings in Ridgefield.
(There have been a very, very few cases of survivors.) However, A state law bans smoking in all restaurants, bars, health care
prophylactic treatment in the form of a series of injections is institutions, schools, retail stores, elevators, and private busi-
available for people who have been exposed to the virus. nesses.
What is West Nile virus? How often does the town inspect local restaurants
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne infection that can for good sanitation?
cause encephalitis. Since mosquitoes can breed and reproduce The town inspects restaurants quarterly and whenever there
in any stagnant water that lasts more than four days, people is a major change or opening at an eatery.
can best protect themselves by eliminating any such pools of
stagnant water around their homes, such as birdbaths, old tires, Do we have an Alcoholics Anonymous chapter?
kiddy pools, and clogged gutters. Minimize outdoor activi- There are many AA meetings in Ridgefield and Ridgebury.
ties between dusk and dawn. Consider the use of mosquito For a schedule, call 203-778-6777, the Web site is ct-aa.org.
��
��
��
��
�
�
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
56 Senior Citizens The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Senior Citizens
��
��
�� What is SPIF?
SPIF is the acronym for the Senior Positive Initiative
seceip dnik-a-fo-eno��
eWe
rutcut
cafudiamonds
nam dna sand dnomanufacture
maid tuc eW one-of-a-kind pieces Forum, a town committee that works to meet the needs of
of jewelry...
vaS dna secirP elasel��
ohW ylurTBuy ta tcDirect
eriD yatuBTruly Wholesale Prices andRidgefield’s Save! senior population. The chairman is Mary Ann
Baldwin, director of the social services department. For infor-
eht dael ot euni��
tnoc ew ,pihsAcclaimed
namstfarc efor
lbaour
rapmincomparable
ocni ruo rof dcraftsmanship,
emialccA we continue to lead the waycall
mation, in styling
203-431-2777.
noitnetta and
gnisluxury.
imorpmConsummate
ocnu dna lliksskill
etamand
musuncompromising
noC .yruxul dna attention to detail are given to every piece.
ig era liated ot ��
��
�� What is the Gold Card?
This is a town discount card for Ridgefielders 65 or older.
�� It is good for discounts at participating businesses and services
around town. For information, call Mary Ann Baldwin at 203-
�� 431-2777.
��
�� What special housing is available for the elderly and
�� how does one get admitted?
Ballard Green (203-438-9845) is independent housing for
the disabled of any age or those who are 62 years or older with
an annual income of less than $42,000. Prospect Ridge (203-
431-9943) is for the frail elderly with 24-hour supervision; the
same rules apply. For both, applications are needed.
A complete list of senior housing available in a 14-town
region of southwestern Connecticut (including Wilton and
�� Norwalk) is available from the Area Agency on Aging (203-
�� 333-9288) in Bridgeport.
��
�� Is there day care for the elderly?
��
Area options include The Village at Waveny Care Center
�� (203-594-5200/waveny.org) in New Canaan, Elderhouse
��
��
�� (203-847-1998/elderhouse.net) in Norwalk, and Almost Home

�� Adult Day Care (203-743-6456/almosthomeadc.org) in
��
Danbury.
Is there a nursing home in town?

�� Laurel Ridge Health Care Center, 642 Danbury Road
�� (203-438-8226/athenahealthcare.com/lr), is a skilled nursing
�� facility.
��
How about a retirement community?
Ridgefield Crossings, 640 Danbury Road (203-431-2255)
offers independent and assisted living, with the Lighthouse
Handcrafted
ecalkcen18Ktdnom
�� sapphire
aid dna ande� rihdiamond
ppas tK81necklace
detfarcdnaH Club for those with memory impairment. Residents enjoy their
set with
lavogemeulbquality
rewolfcornflower
nroc ytilauqblue megoval
htiw tes own private apartments with dining, housekeeping, transporta-
��
sapphires
.stc0150cts.
.22 dntotala thgweight
iew latoand t .st22.10cts.
c05 serihppas tion, and concierge services and social programs. Personalized
��
total weight
.sdnomainiddiamonds.
ni thgiew latot care plans are available.
��
(A piece
)sntooitcherish
areneg for
rof generations)
hsirehc ot eceip A( Regency at Ridgefield is a 73-unit age-restricted condo-
minium project for active adults at 638 Danbury Road. Units
�� are priced at market rates. For information, call 203-431-1818.
aiD ,sdnaB yrasrevinnAAlso,
dnomsave
aiDon,sdDiamond
naB gniddWeddingeW dnomBands,aiD noDiamond Meadow
evas ,oslAAnniversary Bands, Diamond Ridge (203-544-7777) at 100 Redding Road in
Stud Earrings,
Georgetown is a private complex offering a variety of inde-
Y.Z. Jewelry Mfg.
aiD htiw tes sgnirraE dnaDiamond
sgniR ,stePendants,
lecarB ,seNecklaces,
calkceN ,stnBracelets,
adneP dnoRings
maiDand Earrings set with Diamonds, Emeralds,
nots esool fo noitceles egraL Rubies
.segnarand ecirSapphires
p lla ni serinihallppaprice seibuR Large selection of loosependent
S dnaranges. and/or
stones, gem qualityassisted living services, including care for
etirovaf nwo ruoy ngised otsapphires,
,etinaznatemeralds,
dna seiburubiesr ,sdlarand
emetanzanite, Alzheimer’s
,serihppasto design your own favorite patients.
piece of jewelry.
��
dnomaiD tuoba noitacude etelpCome
moc a visit
uoy eus,
vigwe
lliwwill
ewgive
,su tyou
isiv aemcomplete
oC Is there
education about Diamonds a senior center?
and Gems.
�� Founders Hall at 193 Danbury Road (203-431-7000) is
�� Ridgefield’s recreation and education center for seniors. It is
open Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 4:30. Founders Hall
��
offers four 10-week semester programs per year. From classes
in art history and American history to studies of classical
431 Post Road retnEast,
eC gWestport
nippohS oCompopmoC trShopping
optseW ,tCenter
saE daoR tsoP 134 music and world religions, there is a full schedule of academic
courses. Oil painting, drawing and a full range of crafts are
��
Suite 18, Second
)lacitpFloor
O neh(Above
(203) 222-1894
oC evoCohen
0341or
bA( rooOptical)
-12221-1430
lF dnoceS ,81 etiuS
2 ro 4981-222 )302( taught in the Art and Craft Studios. The Computer Lab offers
beginning and advanced computer classes. The Fitness Studio
xe dna sdnomaid y��
tilauq enif htiS.Z.
w srhas
emoatsuhistory
c gniylof
ppsupplying
us fo yrotscustomers
ih a sah .Zwith hasexcellent
.S fine quality diamonds and a full service.
schedule of exercise classes including aerobics,
yoga, tai chi, and dance. Contemporary and classical movies
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Senior Citzens 57
are offered free in the media room on a regular schedule. Trips

are part of the On-The-Road program to destinations such as
New York City, Foxwoods, and theater matinées. There are
also overnight trips to destinations such as Quebec, Maine, and
Washington, D.C.
��
��
��
...yrlewThere
Drop in for a tour and to register for membership. ej fo seisceip dnik-a��
-fo-eno eWe
rutcut
cafudiamonds
nam dna sand
dnomanufacture
maid tuc eW one-of-a-kind pieces
no fee for membership. The Web site is founders-hall.org.!evaS dna seci��
rP elaselohW ylurTBuy
ta tcDirect
eriD yat
uBTruly Wholesale Prices and Save
gnilyts ni yaw eht dael ot eu��
nitnoc ew ,pihsAcclaimed
namstfarc efor
lbaour
rapmincomparable
ocni ruo rof dcraftsmanship,
emialccA we continue to lead the
Are there clubs or social groups for seniors? .eceip yreve ot nevig era liated ot noitnetta and
gnisluxury.
imorpmConsummate
ocnu dna lliksskill
etamand
musuncompromising
noC .yruxul dna attention to detail are giv
Many groups meet at Founders Hall or the Recreation ��
Center. Parks and Recreation (203-431-2755)�� offers ��
��educa- ��
tional as well as recreational and aquatic activities. ��
AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) has a
chapter (see below).
��
Community Center Card Players meet Tuesday morn- ��
ings at 10 at the Ridgefield Community Center. Call Chris ��
Robertson at 438-6165 or 438-6962.
OWLS (Older Wiser Livelier Set) meets the first Thursday ��
at Founders Hall from 10:30 to noon; call 203-431-7000. ��
OWLS serves as a social network for townspeople who want
to spend their time with others their own age. Membership is
open to any Ridgefielder who is 60 or older, has a spouse in ��
that age range or is retired from working. ��
The Ridgefield Men’s Club, for retired and semi-retired
residents, meets the first and third Wednesday mornings at the
First Congregational Church at 10. Visit ridgefieldmensclub.
org or call Bud Rigby at 203-438-5702.
The Senior Men’s Golf Association, for those over 62,
plays Thursday mornings at Ridgefield Golf Course. For infor-
mation, call Bud Rigby at 203-438-5702.
St. Mary’s Widows and Widowers Club offers spiritual ��
and social outlets as well as support for one another. Call St.
Mary’s parish at 203-438-6538 or Kathy Brennan at 203-894-
1309.
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church offers senior luncheons.
Call 203-438-3789.
The Main Street Social and Discussion Group meets
at the First Congregational Church. Call 203-438-8077 for
details. ��
What does the AARP offer?

The Ridgefield-area Chapter 4852 meets the second ��
Wednesday (except in July and August) at 10, at the recreation ��
center. Meetings combine socializing with a presentation by a Handcrafted
ecalkcen18Ktdnom sapphire
aid dna anderihdiamond
ppas tK81necklace
detfarcdnaH
guest speaker. The chapter also sponsors trips, ranging from
��
set with
lavogemeulbquality
rewolfcornflower
nroc ytilauqblue megoval
htiw tes
day trips up to a full week away. Chapter president is George ��
sapphires
.stc0150cts.
.22 dntotala thgweight
iew latoandt .st22.10cts.
c05 serihppas
Gill. Call membership chairman Anna Cleveland at 203-438- total weight
.sdnomainiddiamonds.
ni thgiew latot
��
9886 or Al Ryff at 203-438-5737. For national AARP, call (A piece
)sntooitcherish
areneg for
rof generations)
hsirehc ot eceip A(
800-424-3410. ��
Two programs the chapter offers are the 55 Alive/Mature ��
Driving Course and assistance with income,sgtax nirrpreparation.
aE dutS dnomaiD ,sdnaB yrasrevinnAAlso, dnomsave
aiDon,sdDiamond
naB gniddWeddingeW dnomBands,
aiD noDiamond
evas ,oslAAnniversary Bands, Diam
The driving course meets regularly at Ridgefield
Y.Z. Jewelry Mfg.
,sdlareCrossings.
mE ,sdnomaiD htiw tes sgnirraE dnaDiamond
sgniR ,stePendants,
lecarB ,seNecklaces,
calkceN ,stnBracelets,
adneP dnoRings
maiDand Earrings set with Diam
Call Peter Myers at 203-438-8290. Ridgefielders ytil60
auqand
meg ,older
senots esool fo noitceles egraL Rubies
.segnarand ecirSapphires
p lla ni serinihall
ppaprice
S dnaranges.
seibuR Large selection of loose stone
with low to moderate incomes may call the AARP .yrleweTax-Aide
j fo eceip etirovaf nwo ruoy ngised otsapphires,
,etinaznatemeralds,
dna seiburubiesr ,sdlarand
��
emetanzanite,
,serihppasto design your own favorite p
program to get help in filing their federal and state returns.
The free, confidential service is available Feb. 1 to
.smApril
eG dna15.sdnomaiD tuoba noitacude etelpComemoc a visit
uoy eus, vigwe
lliwwill
ewgive
��
,su tyou
isiv aemcomplete
oC education about Diamonds
For more information, call Peter Massagli at 203-438-2755.
��
What is Meals on Wheels?
Meals on Wheels (203-438-8788) delivers lunch and a
main meal for those unable to cook for themselves. Services
can be provided for as many days of the week as needed.
There is no income limit or medical condition necessary to
��
431 Post Road
retnEast,
eC gWestport
nippohS oCompo
pmoC trShopping
optseW ,tCenter
saE daoR tsoP 134
benefit. Fees are nominal and no one is turned away for finan- ��
Suite 18, Second
)lacitpFloor
O neh(Above
(203) 222-1894
oC evoCohen
0341or
bA( rooOptical)
-12221-1430
lF dnoceS ,81 etiuS
2 ro 4981-222 )302(
cial reasons.
��
.ecivres tnellecxe dna sdnomaid ytilauq enif htiS.Z.
w srhas
emoatsuhistory
c gniylof
ppsupplying
us fo yrotscustomers
ih a sah .Zwith
.S fine quality diamonds and exc
58 Senior Citizens The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Do any doctors specialize in senior citizens? management, and financial issues. An initial consultation by
The Geriatric Health Center in Danbury offers special- a licensed clinical social worker is courtesy of the RVNA for
ized medical services for area people 60 and older. For details, residents. RVNA also offers help with light housekeeping,
call 203-791-5040. Danbury Hospital has an office of geriat- laundry, bathing, shopping, meal preparation, transportation,
ric psychiatry. Call 203-797-7686. companionship, and personal care such as feeding, dressing,
Norwalk Hospital has an office of geriatric medicine. Call bathing and toileting. Call 203-438-5555.
203-852-3112.
The Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic at Waveny Care Is there a service that will check up on senior citi-
Center in New Canaan helps families make informed decisions zens living alone?
about community services and housing options for the older The Ridgefield Woman’s Club sponsors Are You OK?,
adult. Call 203-594-5200 or visit waveny.org. which provides a daily phone check to Ridgefielders over 60
or to those who are homebound or medically disabled. For
Whom should I call for special help for the elderly? details, call 203-438-6777.
The Municipal Agent for the Elderly, Mary Ann Baldwin, HealthWatch, sponsored by the RVNA (203-438-5555),
is in town hall (203-431-2777) Monday through Friday from offers seniors a pushbutton communicator to summon help in
8:30 to 4:30 and can provide information on community an emergency.
resources for seniors and help seniors fill out applications for The RVNA offers Lifeline, a medical alert service. A
a state prescription discount card (Conn-Pace), fuel and energy pushbutton communicator that signals Lifeline personnel of
assistance and rent rebates. She is available for home and an emergency. They will phone immediately, and if no one
agency visits by appointment. answers, help will be sent. For details, call RVNA at 203-438-
The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association offers a Senior 5555.
Care Management Program to help residents maintain inde- Ridgefield’s Department of Social Services provides
pendent living safely in their own home. (See below.) seniors and the disabled with deactivated cell phones capable
of reaching 911. Call Mary Ann Baldwin at 203-431-2777.
Is there special transportation for the elderly?
FISH (202-438-8044) provides free rides to senior citizens Does anyone offer a companionship program?
and disabled residents to medical and therapy appointments Companions are provided by the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse
in Ridgefield, Wilton, Danbury and Norwalk; call a week or Association on a private pay basis. Call 203-438-5555.
more in advance of appointment to schedule a ride. The ser-
vice is available from 9 to 5. Anyone interested in volunteering Does anyone help seniors run errands?
to drive one day a month may call Ruth Sell at 203-438-4366. The Friendly Shopper Service Program matches volun-
The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association’s Friendly teers with seniors and disabled people who need a companion
Driver Program helps RVNA patients with no means of trans- to take them shopping. Call Mary Ann Baldwin at 203-431-
portation get to medical appointments. Call 203-438-5555. 2777.
SweetHART is a public bus system for people over 60 and
anyone with disabilities. Door-to-door service in Ridgefield Does anyone help with insurance forms?
and Danbury is provided with reservations made in advance. The Norwalk Hospital Volunteer Medicare Information
Reservations are accepted from two weeks before the trip; Service offers help to anyone interested in Medicare or supple-
early bookings are encouraged. The service is available mental insurance assistance. Call 203-852-3325 and leave a
Monday through Friday from 8:45 to 4:45, with no service on name, telephone number, and the best time for a volunteer to
Saturday or Sunday. For reservations, call 203-748-2511. For return the call.
information, call 203-748-2034.
St. Mary’s Van Service takes people to Sunday Mass who Where can I get consumer help?
would find it difficult to get to church on their own. The vol- Senior citizens can get toll-free help by calling the state
unteer drivers also take people to medical appointments. Call attorney general’s senior advocate hotline.
203-438-6538. Staffed by senior volunteers, the program helps those who
The American Red Cross offers transportation to sched- may have been victimized by scams or who may be suspicious
uled medical appointments. For local appointments, call 203- about an organization. The hotline may be called Monday
792-8200 Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 4. For out-of- through Thursday, 8:30 to 1:30, at 800-660-7787.
area appointments, call weekdays from 10 to 1.
The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery pro- Are there any tradespeople who offer special ser-
gram provides free transportation for cancer patients to-and- vices to seniors?
from their treatment. Call 1-800-889-3340 and press 3 for A directory of senior services published by the town’s
information. Volunteer drivers are also needed. Commission on Aging (see below) offers a list of area trades-
people who have expressed an interest in providing services
Is there a program to help seniors stay in their to seniors. Some offer senior discounts. While the commission
homes? has reviewed licenses and insurance, it cannot endorse any of
RVNA’s Quality Living at Home program has identified the contractors or guarantee their work.
and built community partnerships that resulted in enhanced or
new services to enable seniors to remain in their homes. This How can I get more information on services for the
free service includes: a home & property maintenance directo- elderly?
ry, healthcare options, financial and legal resources, transporta- The town’s Commission on Aging publishes a handy guide
tion information, social connections, education, and wellness called the Ridgefield Directory of Services for Seniors and
programs. Call RVNA at 203-438-5555, ext. 1005. Residents. Copies are available at the information office in the
The RVNA offers a Senior Care Management Program town hall. If you need a copy mailed, call Mary Ann Baldwin
to help residents maintain independent living safely in their at 203-431-2777 or the switchboard at 203-431-2700. A list of
own home. Services include personal care, medical care, home senior services is also on the town Web site at ridgefieldct.org.
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Recreation 59
Recreation
Where is the recreation center and what is there? Organized viewing events are held throughout the year. For
The Ridgefield Recreation Center complex (203-431- information, call Parks and Recreation at 203-431-2755 or
2755) is at 195 Danbury Road (Route 35). Office hours are visit starpark.org.
8:30 to 4:30, Monday through Friday. The center is open 6 Ballard Park on Main Street is a full-fledged park, com-
a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6 to 6 on Saturday, plete with a playground and a bandstand. Special events are
and 9 to 6 on Sunday. held there.
The recreation center offers a pool, gymnasium, fitness Martin Park is Ridgefield’s local swimming hole, with a
center with locker rooms featuring steam and sauna, multi- public beach for residents only on spring-fed Great Pond. For
purpose rooms for programs, a child-care area, lounge, and summer swims, there is a daily fee ($15) or you may purchase
food court. Also on the property is the Founders Hall Senior a seasonal tag ($160 per family/$85 for singles/seniors free)
Citizen Center and the Sky’s the Limit fully accessible play- at the parks and recreation office on Danbury Road (203-431-
ground. 2755). Senior citizens who are Ridgefield residents are admit-
Recreation Center membership includes use of the pool dur- ted free. Each membership receives a guest card good for four
ing recreation swim and discounts on programs. The fees are free visits for guests.
$125 for a single, $190 for a couple, $250 for a family. Add- Veterans Park, where Veterans Park School is, Ridgebury
ons are $230 per person for use of the lap pool and $360 per School and Branchville School all offer a good sledding hill
person for use of the Wellness Center. There is a 10% discount plus athletic fields and a playground. With swings and pic-
for seniors and disabled members. Pool drop-in fee is $10 and nic tables, Richardson Park, off Route 116, is excellent for
guest fee is $12. picnics and also hiking. Pierrepont State Park on Barlow
The Ridgefield Parks and Recreation Guide, which lists Mountain Road has miles of trails plus fishing on Pierrepont
seasonal programs, is mailed to all households. Copies are also Pond.
at the Recreation Center or may be downloaded from ridge- Lake Windwing on South Shore Drive has Little League
fieldct.org. Or ridgefieldparksandrec.org. fields, hiking, and cross-country skiing. Aldrich Park on New
Road offers hiking trails. Sturges Park on Rippowam Road
What local parks are there? What do they offer? offers camping and hiking.
To commemorate the International Year of Astronomy There is also the Bark Park on Prospect Ridge where dogs
(2009) and the 40th anniversary of the moon landing, last sum- may run off the leash.
mer Ridgefield opened the Star Park at the Onalfo soccer A full list of fields and parks is in the recreation brochure.
field off Prospect Ridge Road. It is open year-round for view-
ing of the night sky with your own telescope or binoculars.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
60 Recreation The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
How much open space is in Ridgefield? Baseball diamonds are next to Veterans Park School, on
Ridgefield’s open space encompasses about 5,200 acres. Playground Road in Branchville, at Farmingville School, at
That is nearly one-quarter of the town’s area. The largest Ridgebury School, at Branchville School, at Lake Windwing
open spaces include Bennett’s Pond, Hemlock Hills/Lake across from Ridgebury School, at Aldrich Park off New
Windwing, and Pine Mountain. Road, at Ridgefield High School, Sachem Field on Old West
Bennett’s Pond is on Bennett’s Farm Road, off Route Mountain Road, on Prospect Ridge, at East Ridge Middle
7. The 440-acre property offers two trails along old logging School, and behind the Venus municipal building on East
roads and pre-existing trails. The orange trail connects to Pine Ridge.
Mountain Preserve and the blue trail connects to the Hemlock Soccer is played on many elementary school fields and
Hills property. on Diniz and Onolfo fields on Prospect Ridge. Gyms of the
Hemlock Hills/Lake Windwing offers a variety of trails schools and recreation centers may also be rented by the
and a deep gorge near the Pine Mountain entrance. Parking public. Call 203-431-2755 between 9 and 5 Monday through
and trail entrances are at North Shore Drive, Ned’s Mountain Friday for details.
Road, South Shore Drive ballfield, and Pine Mountain Road.
Pine Mountain trails are difficult with steep sections over Can I go in-line skating or skateboarding here?
rocks, but the payofff is a panoramic view of Long Island The Graham Dickinson SPIRIT Skate Park, 30 Prospect
Sound. There is parking for five cars at the trail head at the Street behind Yanity Gym, has moved to the parking lot
end of Pine Mountain Road. behind Veterans Park Elementary School on Market Street for
the summer due to construction at the permanent par.
Where can I go hiking? Normally, the park is open seven days a week from March
The Ridgefield Walk Book lists many parks and open through November, weather permitting. Hours are noon to
spaces for hiking. They include Hemlock Hills (273 acres); dusk during the summer (as well as weekends, holidays, and
Pine Mountain (289 acres); Peterson Gorge (16 acres); school vacation days), 2:30 to dusk on school days. Skaters
Ridgebury Slope (14 acres); Kiah’s Brook Refuge (12 acres); may purchase an annual membership, buy a 10-day punch
Sarah Bishop (39 acres); Levy Park (38 acres); Barrack card, or pay a daily drop-in rate. Lessons and camps are
Hill Refuge (9 acres); Bobby’s Court (34 acres); Brewster offered. For information, call Linda Caponetti at 203-431-2368
Farm (104 acres); Topstone Preserve (9 acres); Beechwood or e-mail skatepark@ridgefieldct.org. The rinkside number is
(14 acres); MarJoy Pond/Casey Lane (47 Acres); West 203-431-2342 during regular hours in season.
Mountain Refuge (55 acres); Blacksmith Ridge (15 acres); A parent-child skate park at the new recreation center on
Peaceable Refuge (16 acres); Florida Refuge (61 acres); Route 35 is designed to allow young children to learn to skate.
Aldrich Park (37 acres); Norwalk River Environmental
Study Area (6 acres); Seth Low Pierrepont State Park (313 Where can I go ice skating?
acres); Woodcock Nature Center (70 acres with access to 143 Winter Garden, 111 Prospect Ridge Road (behind East
acres); Bennett’s Pond (460 acres, two trails). Ridge Middle School), is open for public skating from
The book’s maps show access and parking. The book may September to late May. A synthetic skating surface used for
be purchased for $5 at the town hall, Ridgefield Office Supply, training purposes is open all year. There are seasonal hockey
or the Chamber of Commerce. You may also purchase a map leagues for youths and adults, summer hockey camps, and
of open spaces for $3 from the Conservation Commission learn-to-skate (figure skating) programs. Call 203-438-4423
office at 66 Prospect Street in the town hall annex. for information or visit online at wintergardenarena.com.
Aquarion issues hiking permits that give access to the Pond skating in town is at your own risk. Lake
five-mile Saugatuck Nature Trail along the shore of the Mamanasco and Pierrepont State Park are popular spots.
Saugatuck Reservoir and 35 miles of scenic trails in Redding Skating is not allowed on reservoirs.
and Weston. Call the watershed management department at
203-452-3510. What adult sports are offered?
Men’s basketball takes place every Sunday morning from
What is the Rail Trail? 6:30 to 9:30 and every Wednesday night from 8 to 10:30 at
The Rail Trail is a 2.4-mile stretch that can be accessed at the Yanity Gym, and every Sunday morning from 9 to 11 at
the end of Prospect Street or Halpin Lane, where there is park- the Recreation Center Gym. To participate, just stop by ready
ing. It follows the old railroad tracks to Florida Road and is to play; a modest fee will be collected from those who are not
open for walking, jogging, cross-country skiing, or snowshoe- members of the Recreation Center. Open to men 18 and older.
ing. No bikes or motorized vehicles are allowed. Women’s drop-in basketball takes place at the Recreation
Center gym from September to May on Monday evenings
Are mountain bikes allowed in open spaces? from 8 to 10. There is a drop-in fee for non-members. Open to
Mountain biking is legal in open spaces around town but, women 18 and older.
due to erosion of the trails, conservationists urge bikers to use There is also a summer basketball league at the Yanity
extreme care. gym. Check rbahoops.com for details.
Regional popular spots nearby include Bear Mountain For the Ridgefield Men’s Softball League, call Mike
Reservation in Danbury, 203-797-4632; Cranbury Park in Bedini at 203-788-5137; for the Ridgefield Women’s Softball
Norwalk, 203-854-7806; or Huntington State Park in Redding, League, contact Anne Marie Watsik at amwatsik@att.net. The
860-424-3200. Web site is rwsa.net.
Adult tennis lessons are offered at Yanity Gym. Call 203-
What recreational facilities can I use without joining 431-2755.
something?
All outdoor town facilities, except Martin Park, are open to Where’s the nearest batting cage?
the public without membership. There are lighted basketball Baseball Plus is at 88 Sugar Hollow Road (Route 7); call
courts and tennis courts at the Yanity Gym. Outdoor basketball 203-431-4131.
hoops are at the schools, too.
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Recreation 61
Are there activities for special adults? bodysenseridgefield.com).

The Out and About Club is open to all adults 18 or The Ridgefield Recreation Center on Danbury Road,
older with special needs. The club meets twice a month and (203-431-2755/ridgefieldct.org).
offers a variety of activities. Fees vary. For details, call Susan Results Personal Training at 17 Governor Street (203-
Bonistalli at 203-431-2755. 438-8771/resultspt.com).
Herzog Body Tech at 383 Main Street (203-438-1190/her-
Is there a public golf course? zogbodytech.com).
Ridgefield Golf Course at 545 Ridgebury Road (203-748- Contours Express Fitness at 470 Main Street (rear lower
7008) is Ridgefield’s public golf course. Greens fees are $25 level) (203-431-3456/contoursexpress.com/ridgefieldct/).
for residents all week ($15 for seniors and juniors on week- Personal Training Professionals of Ridgefield, CT at 105
days). There are discounts after 4 p.m. For details, visit ridge- Danbury Road, Unit 102 (203-431-4PTP/ptpfranchise.com/
fieldct.org and click on Ridgefield Golf Course. ptp_ridgefield/).
Your Personal Best Trainer studio at 10 Roberts Lane
Is there a golf league I can join? (203-438-6709/personalbest35.com).
The Ridgefield Ladies Golf Association offers both nine Buddhi Mat Yoga at 66 Danbury Road (203-403-2399/
and 18 hole leagues. Call Debbie Murphy at 203-438-9301 or buddhimatyoga.com).
visit rlga.net. Snap Fitness of Ridgefield at 1 Ethan Allen Highway
The Ridgefield Men’s Golf Club is open to area residents (203-544-0047/snapfitness.com/ridgefieldct).
and offers an extensive list of tournaments. There is also
Ridgefield Senior Men’s Golf. For information on either Is there a jogging trail here?
group, visit online at rgconline.org. Ridgefield High School on North Salem Road has a
running track. For wild trail running, try Pierrepont State
Where can I go swimming here? Park off Barlow Mountain Road. The Pine Mountain and
Martin Park, which is on Great Pond, is a public beach Hemlock Hills open space lands offer challenging trails
requiring seasonal membership. The Ridgefield Recreation over a combined 562 acres; they may be accessed from Lake
Center has an indoor pool for recreational and lap swimming. Windwing off South Shore Drive. The Rail Trail off Halpin
Parks and Recreation also has a lesson program. For details, Lane is also good for jogging.
call 203-431-2755.
Are there any running clubs in the area?
Are there any competitive swimming opportunities? Wolfpit Running Club meets regularly for running and
The Barracudas, run through the Parks and Recreation walking. Members hold a couple of road races yearly includ-
Department, is a summer swim team for boys and girls age ing the annual Ridgefield Half-Marathon in early October.
five to 16. Visit wolfpitrunningclub.org.
The Ridgefield Aquatic Club ((RAC) is a year-round com-
petitive swim program offering many levels for swimmers of
all ages and abilities, including the Olympic Way program, a
pre-competitive program, and four competitive swimming lev-
els, depending on ability and commitment. RAC even offers
��
a Masters program for adult swimmers. The team practices ��
at Barlow Mountain pool in Ridgefield and at WestConn in
Danbury. Visit online at racswimming.org or call Head Coach
Bob Shearer at 203-438-3951/e-mail racswimming256@aol.
com.
Are any public beaches on Long Island Sound?

One of the most popular spots to visit is Sherwood Island
State Park (203-226-6983) in Westport. It has a long beach,
changing and eating areas, two large picnic grounds, space to
play beach sports, and a concession stand in season. For details
online visit ct.gov/dep and click on Outdoor Recreation / State
Parks & Forests.
Are there any bicycling clubs in the area?

Sound Cyclists runs group rides throughout Fairfield
County year round. There are special events, a newsletter, and
members are entitled to discounts at more than a dozen area
bicycle shops. For more information, visit soundcyclists.com.
Is there a helmet law for bicyclists?
Children 15 and under in Connecticut must wear a helmet
when they are bicycling.
��
What local health clubs are available? ��
The Fitness Studio at 109 Danbury Road in Copps Hill ��
Commons (203-431-0006/everywomanspirit.com). ��
Ridgefield Fitness Club, 66 Grove Street (203-431-7796/ ��
ridgefieldfitness.com).
Body Sense, 456 Main Street (203-894-8558/
62 Recreation The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Are there any parades in town? Where do I get a fishing license?

The Memorial Day Parade is the most popular parade in Inland fishing licenses are $28 (free to seniors and the
town. The local joke is that if you aren’t watching it, you are disabled) and are required for anyone 16 and older. They are
in it. There is also a small homecoming parade in the fall, put available at the town clerk’s office and many tackle shops.
on by the Ridgefield High School students to show class spirit. Fishing licenses are not needed in the marine district unless
you are taking lobsters or menhaden. For details, check the
Is camping allowed anywhere in town? Connecticut Angler’s Guide, available free at the town clerk’s
Camping is allowed in certain areas with a permit. Camp office or online at dep.state.ct.us.
sites are at Hemlock Hills, Lake Windwing, and Sturges Park.
Call 203-431-2755 for permit information. What do I need to get a hunting license?
To obtain a hunting license, you must have had a resident
Are there any nature centers in or near town? license within the last five years or have proof of success-
Woodcock Nature Center is at 56 Deer Run Road, just ful completion of a hunter safety course. A firearms hunting
across the Ridgefield line in Wilton (203-762-7280/wood- license costs $28, $15 for a junior (age 12 to 15) firearms
cocknaturecenter.org). The Nature Center building is open to hunting license. An archery license is $60, $26 for juniors.
visitors Monday through Friday, 9:30 to 4. Grounds and hik- Hunting licenses may be purchased at town hall, archery
ing trails are open daily dawn to dusk. The center offers such licenses must be applied for by mail. Permits for hunting spe-
nature programs as moonlight hikes, composting demonstra- cific animals are extra. For details, consult the Connecticut
tions, bird seed sales, and its annual wreath decorating festival. Hunting and Trapping Guide, available free at the town clerk’s
office, call DEP at 860-424-3011, or visit dep.state.ct.us.
Where may I launch a boat in town?
State boat ramps are at the southern end of Lake What are the hunting seasons here?
Mamanasco, on Mamanasco Road, and on Pierrepont Pond at Depending on the game, hunting seasons begin and end at
Pierrepont State Park, Barlow Mountain Road. However, gaso- different times. Check the latest state Hunting and Trapping
line motors are not allowed on either pond. Guide, available in the town clerk’s office, for details, or go
online to dep.state.ct.us.
Are any streams good for canoeing here? Bowhunting deer season on state land in bowhunting only
Many lakes and ponds are good for canoeing, but not many areas is from Sept. 15 to Dec. 31. On private property the sea-
streams or rivers. Some sections of the Norwalk River along son is Sept. 15-Jan. 31. Check the above Web site for shotgun
Route 7 are navigable, but the nearest sizable river is the dates.
Housatonic. Fall turkey bowhunting on state and private land runs from
Sept. 15 to Nov. 17 and Dec. 23-31. The season for private
Is there a rowing club? land is Sept. 15 to Jan. 31.
The Norwalk River Rowing Association (203-299-5467)
offers youth and adult programs, instruction, and recreational Where can I go hunting in town?
and competitive activities. Visit norwalkriverrowing.org. Hunting is permitted on the state-owned portions of Great
Swamp, off Farmingville Road and Ivy Hill Road, and in a
Where can I go fishing in town? section of Norwalk River flood control land near the intersec-
Fishing is available in all public ponds and lakes, if you tion of Route 7 and Simpaug Turnpike.
have a fishing license. For privately owned ponds and lakes, While hunting is usually permitted on sizable state-owned
permission from the owner must be obtained. Popular are tracts, it is specifically prohibited in Pierrepont State Park
Lake Mamanasco, with public access from Richardson Park or because of a deed restriction.
the state boat launch, and Pierrepont Pond, with access from You may also hunt on private property. All hunters are
Pierrepont State Park. required to have permission from the landowner when hunting
Aquarion offers fishing permits that allows access to res- on private lands. Verbal permission for the hunting of animals
ervoirs in Weston, Redding, Monroe and Shelton. Call the other than deer and turkey is sufficient.
watershed management department at 203-452-3510 or 203- Deer and turkey hunters must carry the written permission
445-7341 for details. of the landowner for the current season on official DEP forms.
A landowner must have a minimum of 10 acres to authorize
What kinds of fish can you catch here? the use of a rifle for deer hunting.
Brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, large-
mouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, northern pike, How can I participate in Ridgefield’s annual deer
striped bass, white perch, yellow perch, walleye, brown bull- hunt?
head, channel catfish, whitefish are typical to the area, includ- In response to the abundant deer population, the town
ing Long Island Sound. Check the 2009 Connecticut Angler’s runs a controlled hunt on several town-owned open spaces.
Guide descriptions of these fish. Free copies of the guide may Applications to participate are available at the town clerk’s
be found in the town clerk’s office in town hall. office in town hall.
Is the fish safe to eat? Where can a person legally practice shooting?
Most types of fish caught locally may have small amounts The Ramapoo Rifle & Revolver Club at 60 South Street
of mercury in them. Therefore, women who are pregnant, nurs- (203-438-2095/ramapoo.com), “dedicated to the safe enjoy-
ing, planning to be pregnant, and children under six should not ment of the shooting sports,” offers a 50-foot indoor range
eat more than one meal a month of fish caught in Connecticut with nine shooting booths. The club periodically offers NRA
rivers and lakes. The lone exception is trout, which is safe to courses. Call for public hours and other information.
eat. There is public trap shooting at the Wooster Mountain
range on Sugar Hollow Road. Call 203-794-9821 for details.
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Children & Teens 63
Children & Teens

How do I find a day care facility for my child? those in need. Members are high school students who live in
Ridgefield has more than a dozen day care centers and/or Ridgefield. Operating under the umbrella of the Ridgefield
group day care homes, licensed by the state for children six Community Foundation, the students primarily raise money
weeks to 12 years old. For information on who is licensed, call for charitable causes. Membership applications are accepted
the state’s day care licensing office at 800-282-6063. in late summer. For information, visit www.ridgefieldpyc.org.
For information on child care in the area, call the Council members’ names and e-mail address are posted there.
Connecticut Child Care Unit Infoline at 800-505-1000 or Mark Yolen (Daveyol@aol.com) is an adviser.
call Infoline at 211.
Is there a place for teens to meet?
How can I make certain the day care provider is The Barn at 10 Governor Street is a meeting place with
properly certified and the facilities are safe? activities for young people in sixth through 12th grade, includ-
All day care centers should be licensed by the state and you ing video games, a big-screen TV, foosball, pool, and outdoor
should ask to see this license. picnic benches and basketball hoops. Activities include art
Child care officials also suggest parents check the center’s classes, dances, field trips, and community service projects.
open door policy on dropping in unannounced to observe staff- The facility is also available for party rentals. For information,
ers with the children, ask about the child-adult ratio, and in call 203-894-1618.
general look around the center to see if it is clean and child-
proofed. Is there a Safe Rides program here?
Parents should check to see that centers attend to children’s Safe Rides provides more than 1,200 rides every school
basic needs in a timely fashion. year. The student-run program is available Friday and Saturday
nights, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., October through June. Students may
What permits do day care centers need? call for a ride at 203-438-3789 and receive a confidential ride
Day care centers fall into three categories: family day care home for whatever reason.
homes, group day care homes and child day care centers,
which also include nursery schools. Stringent requirements Who offers counseling to children and teens?
must be met to become licensed. The Ridgefield Youth Service Bureau is a nonprofit agen-
Requirements include permits from the state Department cy that offers free and confidential counseling to Ridgefield
of Health Services as well as zoning, building, fire, safety and children and families. The office at 90 East Ridge Road (sec-
health permits. To advertise for family day care, caretakers ond floor, above RVNA offices) is open by appointment. For
must list their license numbers. more information, call 203-438-6141.
How often are day care facilities inspected?

Day care centers are inspected by the state and town health
department every two years, when the license is up for renew-
al. About 33% of all home-based day care centers in the state
are inspected annually at random.
The state also makes an inspection whenever a complaint
against a facility is filed. Visits to investigate complaints are
unannounced; if the state finds problems, it will then work
with the facility to bring it into compliance. If the complaint
involves neglect and/or child abuse, the state works with the
Department of Children and Families and police to investigate.
��
��
The town health department assists the state in environmen-
tal aspects of the inspection such as reviewing the facility’s
bathrooms, diaper changing areas and food storage/handling.
Although the spot checks fall around the time the license is
expiring, their exact date is not announced ahead of time.
At what age may young people legally consume alco-

��
hol?
It is illegal for anyone under 21 to possess alcohol any-
where in the state, including on private property. It is also ille-
gal for anyone to knowingly allow minors to possess alcohol.
��
Is there a clearinghouse for jobs for students?
��
The Ridgefield High School Youth Employment Services
(YES) has a job board in the student activities office. Call 203-
438-3785, ext. 1047, e-mail yes_sao@ridgefield.org. YES is ��
sponsored by the RHS PTSA. Check the RHS page at the pub-
lic school’s Web site at ridgefield.org and the PTSA link there.
��
Are there any leadership programs for teens?
Members of the Philanthropic Youth Council learn leader- ��
ship and teamwork skills and the responsibilities of helping
64 Children & Teens The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Family & Children’s Aid Child Guidance offers mental (203-438-7749/starbuckequestrian.com) and Stony Meadows
health services for children, adolescents and their families. Farm (203-431-8586/stonymeadowsct.com); art programs at
Call 748-5689. A 24-hour Mobile Crisis Service may be The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum (203-438-4519/ald-
reached at 1-866-543-2774. richart.org), Ridgefield Guild of Artists (203-438-8863/rgoa.
Kids in Crisis supervises an outreach counselor at org); dance and cheerleading at the Ridgefield Studio of
Ridgefield High School (room B325/203-438-3785, ext. 1210). Performing Arts (203-431-8728/rspaonline.com), history camp
The counselor works full-time during the school year and is at the Keeler Tavern Museum (203-438-5485/keelertavernmu-
independent of the guidance department but works closely seum.org); tennis camp at the Ridgefield Tennis Club, formerly
with it. The organization Kids in Crisis is available to young Ridgefield Athletic Club, (203-431-1466/ridgefieldtennisclub.
people 24 hours a day by calling 203-327-KIDS. com); All For Kids “creative thinking” camp (203-438-0766/
The Ridgefield Crisis Resource Team most often assists allforkidsct@yahoo.com); KidsKamp for preschoolers (203-
school personnel in helping students or staff members coping 438-0802/mynurseryschool@aol.com); The Children’s Corner
with a loss. Crisis team members, who are licensed mental (203-438-3737/thechildrenscorner@hotmail.com); Ridgefield
health professionals, also respond to larger events. For infor- Academy summer programs (203-894-1800, ext. 106/ridgefiel-
mation, call Dr. Carol Mahlstedt at 203-894-1069. dacademy.com); Kaleidoscope Kids Summer Science Camp
(203-748-1177/kaleidoscopekids@hotmail.com); Winter Garden
Is there a group that is an advocate for youth? Arena (203-438-4423/wintergardenarena.com); Enchanted
Yes, the Ridgefield Youth Commission. It is an eight- Garden (203-431-3350/EnchantedGardenKids.com); Baseball
member board that “ensures participation, planning and Plus (203-431-4131/baseballplusct.com);Tigers Edge training
development by the community of youth services...” Minors camps in wrestling and lacrosse (203-438-0910/tigersedge.net),
are permitted to be members. Co-chairs are Ruth Leibowitz SCOR Camps/Soccer Club of Ridgefield (203-438-7267/scor.
and Denise Dammer-Qualey. It generally meets on the first org), ShootOut Soccer Camp (203-770-6064/shootoutcamp.
Wednesday night of the month at 7 p.m. in the small confer- com) and Tiger Hollow Lacrosse Camp (203-894-7597/tigerhol-
ence room in the town hall. lowlacrosse.com).
Can anyone provide insight on teen issues? Is there a special education camp?
Leslie Brown and Lisa Perry are TeenTalk counselors Special education is integrated with the town’s regular day
at Ridgefield High School and East Ridge Middle School, camps. Call the recreation office at 203-431-2755.
respectively. They are trained professionals provided by Kids
in Crisis to help Ridgefield students with issues such as peer What youth sports programs are there here?
pressures, family conflict, drug and alcohol use, mental health For a list of athletics and whom to contact, get a packet at
concerns, stress management, and Internet use and abuse. the recreation center (203-431-2755) or the town hall.
To contact them, call Ms. Brown at 203-438-3785, ext. 1210 Little League serves boys and girls 5 to 12 years old.
(lbrown@ridgefield.org) or Ms. Perry at 203-438-3744, ext. Registration for the spring season is in January. Check The
1629 (lperry@ridgefield.org). Ridgefield Press sports section for times and places or call the
Little League Hotline, 203-894-8863; ridgefieldlittleleague.
Is there a Boys Club or Girls Club in town? org. Ridgefield Little League also offers a girls fastpitch soft-
The Ridgefield Boys & Girls Club (203-438-8821/rbg- ball program for ages five to 14.
club.com) is at 41 Governor Street. During the school year, Babe Ruth League is for ages 13 through 15. Players are
the club is open weekdays for after-school activities until 6 for divided by age groups. Sign-ups are in January. Visit online at
elementary school members, until 7 for middle school mem- ridgefieldbaberuth.org.
bers, and until 8 for high school members. It is also open late The Ridgefield Girls Softball League is open to girls in
Fridays for specific age-appropriate activities, Saturdays from grades K-8. The season runs from April to June. Call the Boys
11 to 4 and evenings for select activities, and Sundays for spe- and Girls Club at 438-8821 for more information.
cific programs. Programs are offered in five core categories: Ridgefield Raiders Youth Football & Cheer registration
health and life skills, the arts, character and leadership, educa- times and places appear in The Ridgefield Press. The Web site
tion and career development, and sports, fitness, and recre- is ridgefieldyouthfootball.org. It has been accepted into the
ation. A main attraction is a summer camp program. Fairfield County Football League. Cheerleaders are a part of
the youth football organization. Check the Web site for details.
How can my child find a scout troop to join? The Soccer Club of Ridgefield (SCOR) has both in-house
Usually, letters are sent home through the schools. You may and travel soccer leagues in the fall and spring. Registration
also call the Girl Scout Council of Southwestern Connecticut for spring season is in late January-early February; sign-up for
in Wilton at 203-762-5557 or go online to gscswct.org; or Boy fall season is late May-early June. Call 203-438-7267 for addi-
Scouts of America Connecticut Yankee Council in Milford at tional information or go online to scor.org.
203-876-6868. Visit online at ctyankee.org. The SCOR Soccer Academy offers a program for children
entering kindergarten through eighth grade.
Are there summer camps here? The Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield offers an indoor soc-
Parks and Recreation offers many summer day camp oppor- cer league. Call 203-438-8821.
tunities for preschoolers through 15-year-olds. Registration The Ridgefield Basketball Association (203-894-1523/rba-
begins in March. Call 203-431-2755 for more information on hoops.com) offers clinics, instruction, and in-house and travel
summer camps. Parks and Rec also offers The Kovacs Soccer basketball for boys and girls 5-18 years old.
Camp for ages 5-12 every July. Call 203-431-2755. The Ridgefield Lacrosse Club has a spring season for boys
Private and specialty camps include: Boys & Girls Club and girls in grades K-8. Visit ridgefieldlax.com or call 203-
of Ridgefield (203-438-8821/rbgclub.com); ramp camp at the 438-1397.
Graham Dickinson Spirit Skate Park (203-431-2342); horse- The Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield offers tennis for
back riding camps at The Ridgefield Equestrian Center (203- beginners and advanced players. Call 203-438-8821 or visit
438-7433/ridgefieldequestriancenter.com); Starbuck Equestrian online at rbgclub.com.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
Call today to schedule your free estimate:

203-244-9505
Schedule online at:
to schedule your free estimate:
www.certapro.com/schedule
9 Golf Court
Ridgefield, CT 06877
203-244-9505
HIC No.to 0620148
Call today schedule your free estimate:
203-244-9505
Schedule online at:
www.certapro.com/schedule
9 Golf Court
Ridgefield, CT 06877
203-244-9505
HIC No. 0620148
��
��
��
��
��
� ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
� � � � � ��
��
��
��
�
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
Ron’s Home Services ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ��
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
� � � � � � � � ��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
Entertainment
Where can I see a movie in town? New England as well as New York and New Jersey. In early
The Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Road, shows December the guild is transformed into a shoppers’ dream
first-run movies as well as a variety of film series and a festi- with Festive Home. The guild is at 34 Halpin Lane and is open
val. Call 203-438-5795 to hear what’s playing. The Ridgefield Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4.
Library shows films on a regular basis. Radius is an artist development program co-produced by
the Ridgefield Guild of Artists and Aldrich Contemporary Art
Are there any amateur theatrical companies? Museum. There are exhibitions, networking opportunities, and
The Ridgefield Theater Barn at 37 Halpin Lane is a workshops. For information, call the Aldrich at 203-438-4519
charming, converted, heated and air-conditioned dairy barn on or visit aldrichart.org.
Halpin Lane. The regular season consists of four full-scale pro-
ductions including a mix of comedies, dramas, and musicals. Is there an arts council in town?
Performances are presented cabaret style at tables and the The Ridgefield Arts Council is a volunteer, town ap-
audience may bring their own food and drink. There are open pointed, not-for-profit organization that supports artists and arts
auditions for all productions and roles for behind-the-scenes organizations in town through events, quarterly meetings with
people. The Theater Barn also offers a play reading series of local arts organizations and the arts calendar on the council’s
unproduced works, comedy improvisation, storytelling, special Web site.
events, and theater workshops for children. For information, There are three main events per year: The Behind the Scenes
call 203-431-9850 or visit ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org. Honors, an awards event at the Lounsbury House honoring
volunteers in the Ridgefield arts community; a networking
Is there live comedy in town? event for artists of all disciplines at The Aldrich Contemporary
The Dancing Curtain LLC Is a comedy business founded Art Museum in the spring, and the Ridgefield Cultural Festival
in Ridgefield. The Dancing Curtain produces clean, comfort at Ballard Park in the fall.
comedy (sketch comedy, improvisation, and standup) at vari- The council has an online events calendar showcasing all
ous venues throughout Connecticut, New York and beyond. local events at ridgefieldartscouncil.org. The public is welcome
The Dancing Curtain also teaches acting classes for kids, to use it as a reference as well as add upcoming listings. Local
adults, and seniors at various venues in Connecticut. The artists and arts organizations may contact the council to be
Dancing Curtain is also available for private bookings such as listed on the Web site and for general support. To be notified of
fund-raisers and private parties. Visit www.thedancingcurtain. weekly arts events, join the council’s mailing list and a listing
com or e-mail Khristee Rich, founder and president, at khristee will be sent to you every Sunday. E-mail: info@ridgefieldartsc
@thedancingcurtain.com. ouncil.org. You can follow the arts council on Twitter, twit-
ter.com/artsnridgefield, and Facebook by typing Ridgefield
Are there any local orchestras? Arts Council in the search bar. The council’s meetings, open
The Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, an orchestra of to the public, are on the first Tuesday of every month in the
professional musicians, presents a subscription series of live small conference room at the town hall at 7:30 p.m. If you are
classical music each year. The orchestra also offers a family interested in being a member or in volunteering, contact Alison
concert, youth competition, and special concerts for Ridgefield Greeley, chair, at agreeley@ridgefieldartscouncil.org or leave a
schools. Volunteers to help support the symphony are always message at the town hall at 203-431-2700.
welcome. Season tickets and individual tickets are available.
For tickets and information, call 203-438-3889 or visit ridge- Are there any singing groups I can join?
fieldsymphony.org. A diverse group of more than 80 men and women, The
The Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra is open to stu- Ridgefield Chorale has brought the joy of singing to local
dents in sixth through 12th grade. Auditions take place in early communities for nearly 30 years. Renowned for a repertoire of
September. There are weekly rehearsals. Audition requirements Broadway show tunes and popular music, the chorale performs
are available online at ridgefieldsymphony.org. in a variety of concerts and productions throughout the year.
No auditions are required; all voice parts welcome. For infor-
Does Ridgefield have a concert hall? mation, visit online at ridgefieldchorale.org.
The Ridgefield Playhouse is a performing arts center at 80 The Adesso Choral Society performs contemporary
East Ridge Road. It has hosted nationally known performers music, particularly works by New England composers. The
like Jose Feliciano, Joan Baez, Clint Black and many others. group rehearses Tuesday nights, 7:30 to 9:30, beginning in
There are music, dance, film society, lecture, first-run films, September, in the director’s home at 115 Sleepy Hollow Road.
comedians and theater programs scheduled throughout the For information, or to arrange an audition, call Margaret
year, as well as arts in education programming, and commu- Collins Stoop at 203-438-2980 or visit online adessochoralso-
nity events such as a free outdoor performance every summer. ciety.com.
Call 203-438-5795 or visit ridgefieldplayhouse.org. Camerata d’Amici is a 40-voice choral music group.
The repertoire ranges from well-known spirituals to classi-
Is there an artists’ group here? cal pieces. Rehearsals are Thursday nights at 7:30 at South
The Ridgefield Guild of Artists (203-438-8863/rgoa.org) Salem Presbyterian Church in South Salem, N.Y. Auditions
is a community-based arts organization serving the greater take place year-round. E-mail director Kristin Sponheim at
Ridgefield area for over 30 years. The guild promotes the info@cameratadamici.org. For information, visit camerat-
visual arts and art education by providing high quality gal- adamici.org.
lery space for ongoing member and invitational exhibitions,
teaching studios for children and adult classes and artists-in- Where can I go dancing or hear live music?
residence programs. The guild’s annual Juried Exhibition takes There are many venues for live music from rock to jazz
place each September-October and attracts artists from all over including Luc’s Cafe (203-894-8522), the Bar & Grille on
7 at 967 Ethan Allen Highway (203-438-6033); Brendan’s Is there a concert series that focuses on sacred
at The Elms (203-438-9206) Bernard’s Inn (203-438- music?
8282), Southwest Cafe (203-438-3398), The Aldrich The First Congregational Church on Main Street offers
Contemporary Art Museum (203-438-4519), Piccolo Pizza the Fountain Music Series, which emphasizes music with a
(203-438-8200), Fifty Coins Restaurant (203-438-1456), sacred theme: excellence in all things, and all things to God’s
Little Pub at 59 Ethan Allen Highway (203-544-9222), Terra glory. Seven free concerts are offered — one a month — from
Sole Ristorante at 3 Big Shop Lane (203-438-5352) as well October through May, excluding November. The schedule is
as the Georgetown Saloon (203-544-8003) and Lumberyard posted on the church Web site, firstcongregational.com, or
Pub (203-544-7287) in Georgetown. For up-to-date informa- call 203-438-8077 for details. The church also offers a Lenten
tion, check the After Dark listings in the Arts & Leisure sec- Organ Recital series.
tion of The Ridgefield Press.
Are there any free summer concerts?
Is there any place to hear folk music? Free family concerts take place Tuesday and Thursday
The Acoustic Celebration presents a series of concerts evenings at 7, late May through Sept. 1, in Ballard Park. The
from October to May, once or twice a month on Sunday eve- CHIRP (Concert Happenings in Ridgefield Parks) schedule is
nings at Temple Shearith Israel (unless otherwise indicated). online at chirpct.org. The series is sponsored by the town and
Tickets may be purchased online ($2 Paypal fee), at the door The Ridgefield Press.
($5 extra) or at Ridgefield Music at 19 Governor Street. For There is also a series of military concerts throughout the
details, call 203-431-6501 or visit online at acousticcelebra- year. Check at chirpct.org for the schedule.
tion.org.
The Ridgefield Library offers folk and songwriters series. What museums are in town?
Call 203-438-2282 or visit ridgefieldlibrary.org for informa- The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum is at 258 Main
tion. Street (203-438-4519). Exhibitions reflect the museum’s mis-
Keeler Tavern offers periodic folk music concerts. Visit sion to be a national leader in the exhibition of significant and
keelertavernmuseum.org or call 203-438-5485. challenging contemporary art with an emphasis on emerging
and mid-career artists. The Aldrich does not have a permanent
Where can I hear chamber music? collection, mounting three cycles of major, temporary exhibi-
The Keeler Tavern Museum sponsors the Louise McKeon tions as well as more than 10 smaller exhibits each year. The
Chamber Music Concert Series each spring and fall. Tickets museum also offers educational programs and a performing
are sold at the door. For information, check the newspaper list- arts series for all ages. The museum’s store offers museum
ings or call the museum at 203-438-5485. You may also visit publications, limited edition/unique art works, a line of limited
keelertavernmuseum.org and click on Events. edition art works created specifically for sale at The Aldrich by
artists who have exhibited there.
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
��
70 Entertainment/Clubs & Organizations The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
The Aldrich is open Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 5.

Admission is $7; $4 for seniors and students; children under Clubs & Organizations
18 free; free admission on Tuesday. The Web site is aldrichart.
org. Where can I find out about volunteer opportunities?
The Keeler Tavern Museum (203-438-5485), 132 Main Many of the civic groups and organizations listed in this
Street, reflects Ridgefield’s history. Built in 1713, the museum book welcome volunteers. A list is also kept in the office on
was once an 18th Century tavern, home for many generations the second floor of the Ridgefield Community Center.
of the Keeler family, and later the home of noted architect In particular, the Friendly Shopper Service Program
Cass Gilbert. Today it is a historical museum run by the Keeler matches volunteers with seniors and disabled people who need
Tavern Preservation Society. Costumed guides lead tours a companion to take them shopping. Call Mary Ann Baldwin
through rooms reflecting different periods of the home’s his- at 203-431-2777. FISH asks people who can drive to volun-
tory. Special events are held throughout the year. teer one day a month. Call Ruth Sell at 203-438-4366. The
The museum is open February through December on RVNA also has many volunteer opportunities. Call 203-438-
Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4; guided tours 5555. ROAR needs volunteers over 18 to help out at the ani-
by costumed docents are offered. (The museum is closed in mal shelter. Call 203-438-0158.
January and certain major holidays.) Entry fee is $5 adults, $3 VolunteerSolutions.org, a United Way initiative, lists area
seniors (62 and older) and students, and $2 for children under nonprofits looking for volunteers. Go to the site and type in
12. Members are admitted free. Donations and volunteers are Ridgefield’s zip code.
always welcome. Call 203-438-5485 or visit keelertavernmu-
seum.org. Is there a United Way group that serves this area?
Yes, United Way of Western Connecticut, which serves
What is the Discovery Center? Ridgefield and 12 other area communities. The office is at 85
The Discovery Center, a non-profit organization based in West Street, Danbury. For more information, call 203-792-5330
Ridgefield since 1985, offers families and children an oppor- or visit unwesternct.org.
tunity to learn about and appreciate nature, science, history
and the arts, through programs ranging from nature walks to Where can I get a guide to the town’s government
whitewater canoeing. Most programs are free to members. For and community-minded organizations?
details, call 203-438-1063 or visit ridgefielddiscovery.org. E- For information not found in The Ridgefield Answerbook,
mail info@ridgefielddiscovery.org. call the Community Center (203-438-6962), or the
Information Office of town hall (203-431-2700). Also, check
What’s Weir Farm? the library’s Web site’s Ridgefield Online links.
Weir Farm — Connecticut’s only national historic site —
is on Nod Hill Road on the Wilton-Ridgefield town line and How can I get involved in a political party here?
is run by the National Park Service. The farm was the sum- To help the Democratic Party, call Town Committee Chair
mer home of American painter J. Alden Weir (1852-1919) and Susan Cocco at 203-431-6076 (or visit ridgefielddems.org);
believed to be a seminal site for the development of American for the Republican Town Committee, e-mail James Carroll
Impressionism. Call 203-834-1896 or visit nps.gov/wefa. at chairman@ridgefieldgop.org (or visit ridgefieldgop.org). To
Weir Farm Art Center at 735 Nod Hill Road (203-761- help the Independent Party, call Dominic D’Addario, 203-
9945) is a private, non-profit organization and the cooperating 438-4397.
association of the Weir Farm National Historic Site. Adjacent
is the Weir Preserve, 110 acres of hiking trails through fields What fraternal organizations are in town?
and woodlands.. Fraternal groups include the Italian-American Mutual Aid
Society (203-438-2028) and the Jerusalem Lodge of Masons
Can I get a guide to interesting places to go? (203-894-1704).
The Ridgefield Press publishes a guide every spring called
100 Things to Do, which lists activities and places to visit Is there a Knights of Columbus chapter?
within about an hour from Ridgefield. Call 438-6544 for infor- Marquette Council #245 serves the greater Ridgefield
mation. The Chamber of Commerce, 9 Bailey Avenue, has area including St. Mary’s parish and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
information and seasonal pamphlets on some area activities. Council meetings are the first and third Thursday of each
Call 203-438-5992. month in the Parish Barn next to St. Mary Church. For infor-
mation, visit kofc245.org.
Can I rent a hall for a party or a reception?
A place rich in history is the Ridgefield Community What is the American Association of University
Center (203-438-6962) on Main Street, with eight rentable Women?
rooms. The Keeler Tavern Museum (203-438-5485), Main The Ridgefield AAUW, a chapter of a national organiza-
Street, has the Cass Gilbert Garden House available for tion devoted to education and equity for women, has many
receptions and parties. Bernard’s Inn at Ridgefield (203- meetings that feature speakers. It also sponsors a scholarship
438-8282) on West Lane has an outdoor wedding garden with for women returning to school after a long absence. For mem-
a pergola for the ceremony. There is also Stonehenge (203- bership information, e-mail Deb Zaic at debzaic@aol.com. The
438-6511) on Stonehenge Road, Silver Spring Country Club president is Nandini Sharma (203-438-5372).
(203-438-2671) on Silver Spring Road, and the Elms Inn
(203-438-2541) on Main Street, all offering quaint locations. Is there a group for newcomers to town?
Rooms for groups may also be rented at the Ridgefield The Newcomers Club of Ridgefield is a non-profit social
Library (203-438-2282), The Barn (203-431-2381), and organization run entirely by volunteers. Membership is open
some of the churches’ halls. Temple Shearith Israel at 46 to any Ridgefield resident who has lived in town five years
Peaceable Street opened a renovated reception facility, the or less or who has had a major life change such as leaving
Pavilion, in the fall of 2009, available for parties and events. the work force for child rearing or retirement. Many activ-
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Clubs & Organizations 71
ity groups are offered, including those that focus on children, visit ridgefieldrotary.org.
sports, men’s and ladies’ night out, and childless couples. For The Ridgefield Rotary Sunrise Club has received its
more information, visit ridgefieldnewcomers.org. For member- provisional charter and in late July was close to obtaining the
ship information, e-mail Lara Parker-Edson at membership@ri required membership for full charter status. For more informa-
dgefieldnewcomers.org. tion, contact John Metzger, club secretary, at 203-438-6444.
What does the League of Women Voters do? What does the Lions Club do?
The league works to increase voter participation through The Lions Club (ridgefieldct.lionwap.org) has the elimi-
voter registration drives and education. Members also study nation of unnecessary blindness as its primary mission, but
local, regional, state, and national issues, take a position on works with many other charitable organizations as well. The
them, and then publish their findings. To find out more, call club collects used glasses in a yellow mailbox in front of Stop
Barbara Wyman at 203-438-6307. The local league’s Web site & Shop, as well as in blue and white boxes in town hall, the
is lwvridgefield.org. post office and several offices around town. The club also rais-
es money for a scholarship and supports a Little League team.
What is the Old Timer’s Association? For more information, call Jill Johnston, membership chair-
The Old Timer’s Association provides scholarships to man, at 203-431-1513 or e-mail jcjohnston@optimum.net.
Ridgefield High School graduating seniors who are scholar-
athletes and honor leaders in sports. A civic award is also Is there a local men’s club?
given to a person or family who has contributed to the town. The Ridgefield Men’s Club exists to provide and promote
For more information on the association and membership, call fellowship to retired or near-retired men in Ridgefield. There
Tom Belote at 203-431-6430 or write to 24 Bailey Avenue, are activities in a dozen or more groups such as bridge, com-
Ridgefield 06877. puter, financial, fishing, wood carving, and gourmet luncheon/
dinner groups. For more information, visit ridgefieldmensclub.
What does the Rotary Club do? org.
The Rotary Club (P.O. Box 41, Ridgefield) participates
in a number of community events including the Egg Hunt in Is there a women’s club?
Ballard Park and Sale-a-bration sidewalk sale. It’s main fund- The Ridgefield Woman’s Club meets the first Thursday
raiser is A Taste of Ridgefield. The club also offers a schol- of the month except in July and August. It supports projects
arship to a Ridgefield High School senior who exemplifies throughout the community. For information, call Phyllis Tiani
the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. It has joined other at 203-431-0220, e-mail phylco5@aol.com, or write to P.O.
Rotary Clubs to help eliminate polio through immunization of Box 288, Ridgefield 06877.
children worldwide. The club meets at Sagi Restaurant at 23
Catoonah Street on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. For information,
��
��
�� 70 West Branchville Road, Ridgefield CT 06877
��
�� • Ground Floor Access
�� • 24 Hour Access Available
��
�� • Indoor Vehicle Storage
�� • Individual Unit Alarms
• Clean, Competitive & Convenient
• 5’ x 5’ to 10’ x 35’
• Climate/Non Climate
��
• We Sell Boxes & Packing Supplies
��
��
��
�� CALL FOR RATES & AVAILABILITY
72 Clubs & Organizations/Media The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Are there any parent groups?

The MOMS Club of Ridgefield and Redding is a support Media
group for mothers (Moms Offer Moms Support) who stay at
home with their children, including those who have home- What newspapers cover the town?
based businesses and those who work part time. The club has The Ridgefield Press (203-438-6544/TheRidgefieldPress.
divided into two groups. For details go online to http://moms- com), a weekly, is the major publication covering our town.
clubridgefield.tripod.com. The News-Times, a daily in Danbury, covers Ridgefield
As part of its maternal child care program, the Ridgefield events and people.
Visiting Nurse Association offers a daytime support hotline.
Call RVNA at 203-438-5555. Can I read The Press online?
Those looking for the latest Ridgefield news can find it on
Is there a group for writers? The Ridgefield Press online site, TheRidgefieldPress.com;
The Writers Guild of Ridgefield meets the third Tuesday those looking for stories from previous issues can find them
of the month at the Ridgefield Library. The Memoir Writing in the same place. For the latest, up-to-the-minute news, sign
Group meets the first Saturday of the month at the library. For up for Breaking News from The Ridgefield Press. Log onto
details on either group, call Lesley Lambton at the library at TheRidgefieldPress.com and click on Breaking News in the
203-438-2282, ext. 1013. Or visit rwgct.blogspot.com. upper right-hand corner. You can also follow town news via
Twitter. Sign up at Twitter.com/RidgefieldPress.
What does the Friends of the Ridgefield Library do? The Press’ archives are searchable by going to
The Friends is a volunteer organization that financially TheRidgefieldPress.com and clicking on “Print Archives” on
supports the library and its programs, mainly through its book the left-hand side of the page.
sales each year. Used book donations from the public are An up-to-date calendar, a guide to the Web sites of
accepted at the circulation desk of the Ridgefield Library. For Ridgefield’s civic and charitable organizations, the Ridgefield
membership information, call the library at 203-438-2282. Answer Book, and past Press columns, as well as access to
the Hersam Acorn classifieds, real estate listings, and the top
What garden clubs are here? stories from the Arts & Leisure section are also available at no
Ridgefield has three garden clubs: Caudatowa Garden charge. Current obituaries, indexes of obituaries that appeared
Club (Susan Mercurio, 203-431-4987); Ridgebury Garden in The Press are also available. Ridgefield’s History Archives
Club (Tammy Conley, 203-778-2411); and the Ridgefield include the Press columns 25 Years Ago and 50 Years Ago, as
Garden Club (Mary Swett, 203-438-3886). well as Notable Ridgefielders, old pictures of town, cemetery
Is there a group devoted to open space? information, Ridgefield Names columns, and more. At the
The mission of the Ridgefield Open Space Association Ridgefield Forum, visitors can view or add comments to the
(ROSA) is dedicated to the acquisition and preservation of various issue threads.
open space throughout town. To get involved, visit rosaopens-
pace.org or call 203-431-6662. The Web site has a catalog of Are there any local television news programs?
open spaces in town. Ridgefield High School has its own television station,
called Tiger TV, which plays during the school year and
Is there an environment group in Ridgefield? advertises local events. It’s on cable Channel 22.
The Ridgefield Action Committee for the Environment
(RACE) acts as a catalyst developing, receiving, and dissemi- How do I get an ad in The Press?
nating information on environmental programs sponsored by For classified advertising, call 1-800-372-2790 or e-mail
town government, the schools, faith communities, the library, to: Classified@hersamacorn.com or fax to: 203-926-2092. For
business, and civic-social groups. RACE also provides a link display advertising, call Laurie Campbell at 203-894-3322.
to our legislators, the Environment Committee of the State Deadlines are detailed at theridgefieldpress.com; see Classified
Assembly, the DEP, and other state agencies. Visit raceforthee- and Help tabs.
arth.com or call 203-431-0184 for assistance or to volunteer.
Do any specialty publications cover our area?
Does Ridgefield have a community garden? Ridgefield Magazine reports news and features about
The town’s community garden on Halpin Lane has 27 plots, town. Call 203-431-1708 or visit ridgefield-magazine.com.
10 by 20 feet, available first-come, first-served. The garden is Connecticut Magazine (203-830-6600/connecticutmag.com)
fenced and water is available. Call Edith Meffley at 203-438- is a general interest magazine. Fairfield County Business
6108 or Robin Howard at 203-431-0089. Journal (914-694-3600/fairfieldcbj.com), published weekly,
contains business news of the county.
What is the National Charity League?
The Nutmeg Chapter of the National Charity League, a Any public radio, classical or jazz stations in the area?
mother/daughter philanthropic organization for girls in grades WSHU-FM in Fairfield (91.1 mHz) is a National
7-12, includes a Ridgefield area chapter. For information, visit Public Radio station and also carries much classical music.
online at nclnutmeg.com. Connecticut Public Radio’s WEDW-FM in Stamford (88.5
mHz) also carries NPR and news talk format, audible in many
Is there a sewing club in the area? parts of town, while its higher-powered but more distant sister
The St. Mary’s Sewing and Craft Guild is open to all. station, WNPR-FM in Norwich (89.1 mHz) can also be heard
Call Paula Lockfort at 203-438-2420. here. WKCR-FM (89.9 mHz) at Columbia University in New
York City is a jazz station. WPKN-FM in Bridgeport (89.5
What veterans organizations are there in town?
mHz) carries a mix that includes jazz. WMNR-FM (88.1
For the American Legion, call Robert Tulipani, 438-3890;
mHz) in Monroe carries mostly classical music, but Saturdays
Marine Corps League, call 203-203-438-4333; and the
from 5 till midnight programs music from the 20s through the
Veterans of Foreign Wars, 90 East Ridge Avenue, P.O. Box
early 50s, including much big band and swing.
423, Ridgefield.
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Business 73
Business
What does the Chamber of Commerce do? white prints may be made.
The mission of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce
(203-438-5992/ridgefieldchamber.org) is to promote economic Where can I get things printed?
vitality through member engagement, hospitality, collabora- Economy Printing (203-438-7401), Ridgefield Printing
tion, education, and advocacy. The Chamber is not-for-profit (203-431-0421), and Village Printers (203-431-0011).
volunteer organization, but it is also a business.The member-
ship base is a partnership of business and professional people When is the post office open?
working together for the betterment of the community by pro- Box and lobby hours at the post office on Catoonah Street
viding programs referred to as NEAT: Networking, Education, are Monday through Friday 4:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays
Advocacy and Tourism. from 4:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sundays (boxes section only)
The Chamber encourages shopping locally through its Gift from 10 to 1. The window is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 to 6,
of Choice Program and promotion of Fridays After Five in and Saturday 9 to noon. It’s closed Sundays and all federal
the downtown business district. The Chamber also provides holidays. For more information, call 203-438-6561.
numerous opportunities for its members through Rise & Shine
Ridgefield Breakfasts featuring business savvy speakers; Where can I send packages or overnight mail?
Business After Hours affording the opportunity to network; The UPS Store will send packages and mailers. UPS will
and Educational Seminars geared to small and home-based pick up at the home for an extra charge; the post office will
businesses. Summerfest, formerly Sale-A-Bration, is the annu- pick up Express Mail for a fee. Federal Express picks up at
al street fair. the home for a fee. For information, call UPS (800-742-5877),
Members also participate in a yearly Business Expo. FedEx (800-238-5355), or the post office at 203-438-6561.
Committees and task forces work on an Annual Golf Outing,
Inaugural Ball and a Fall Festival. The Chamber also serves Any hotels, motels or inns here?
as the community’s tourism center providing relocation and The Elms Inn, 500 Main Street (203-438-2541/elmsinn.
Welcome to Ridgefield packages. com), The West Lane Inn, 22 West Lane (203-438-7323/
westlaneinn.com), Stonehenge Restaurant & Inn, 35
What is Downtown Ridgefield? Stonehenge Road (203-438-6511/stonehengeinn-ct.com),
Downtown Ridgefield Inc. is a merchants’ association Stone Ridge Manor, 24 Old Wagon Road (203-431-8426),
dedicated to promoting and enhancing downtown Ridgefield. and Green Rocks Inn, 415 Danbury Road (203-894-8944/
With strong ties to the community, the members of Downtown greenrocksinn.com) have overnight rooms. Days Inn (203-
Ridgefield are proud sponsors of four major events each year: 438-3781) is a motel at 296 Ethan Allen Highway.
Spring Fest in May, Sidewalk Sales in July, Fall in Love with
Ridgefield in October, and the Holiday Stroll in December.
These events are free and open to the public, and are the orga-
nization’s way of both promoting the economic vitality of the
town, and saying “thank-you” for shopping, dining and stroll-
ing in downtown Ridgefield.
Downtown Ridgefield also offers a gift certificate program
where certificates are redeemable at its participating members.
Certificates may be purchased at the Main Street branch of
Ridgefield Bank or by mail. For information, visit the Web site
downtownridgefield.com.
Who protects consumers?

The local Better Business Bureau is in Wallingford. For
information, call 203-269-2700 or visit online at connecticut.
bbb.org. Also via the Connecticut Department of Consumer
Protection hotline at 800-842-2649 or visit ct.gov.
Is there a place to rent meeting space?

The Ridgefield Community Center’s Lounsbury House is
an elegant and sophisticated meeting space. The center is at ��
316 Main Street, open weekdays from 9 to 5. Call 203-438- ��
6962 or visit online at lounsburyhouse.com.
Ridgefield Parks and Recreation (203-431-2755) offers ��
facilities rentals and the Ridgefield Library (203-438-2282)
offers the Dayton Program Room for rent.
Where can I get copies made?

Squash’s Ridgefield News and Office Supply (203-438-
3635) has a complete copy shop offering color and digital
work and other services. The UPS Store (203-438-7200) pro-
vides color copy machines. Copying machines are available on ��
��
the basement level of the town hall, and at Ridgefield Amoco. ��
The Ridgefield Library has a scanner. Color and black and ��
74 Food & Shopping The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Food & Shopping

What supermarkets are in town? org.
The town has two supermarkets. Ancona’s, 720 Branchville The Garden of Ideas on Route 116 sells homegrown pro-
Road, Branchville, (203-544-8436) is the only locally owned duce at a self-serve farm stand open weekdays from 7 to 5 and
supermarket and is associated with the IGA stores. weekends from 10 to 4.
Stop & Shop is in Copps Hill Plaza, (203-438-7317).
Milillo Farms (203-438-6677) offers meat, fresh fruits and Where can I pick my own fruits and vegetables?
vegetables, convenience foods, fresh breads, and other food You may pick your own berries in the summer at The
items. It is at 424 rear Main Street (in the municipal parking Hickories, 126 Lounsbury Road (see above). Visit thehicko-
lot off Bailey Avenue). ries.org for details.
Nature’s Temptations is an organic food market at 32 Blue Jay Orchards at 125 Plumtrees Road in Bethel (203-
Prospect Street (203-438-5443/naturestemptations.com) offer- 748-0119/bluejayorchardsct.com) is well-known for apple and
ing dairy products, meat, deli items, produce, and non-food pumpkin picking.
groceries. Silverman’s Farm at 451 Sport Hill Road in Easton (203-
261-3306/silvermansfarm.com) offers pick-your-own peaches
Is there a butcher shop in town? and apples from mid-July to mid-October.
Ridgefield Prime (203-894-3273) in Copps Hill Commono Warrups Farm on John Read Road in West Redding (203-
is a gourmet butcher and seafood shop that also sells prepared 938-9403/warrupsfarm.com) is an organic farm offering pick-
food to go. your-own flowers, fruits, vegetables and pumpkins.
Is there a thrift shop? Where can I rent party supplies, power tools or lawn
The Thrift Shop on Catoonah Street is open noon to 4 equipment?
Monday through Friday and 10 to 1 on Saturday. A rental outlet is Party Depot of Ridgefield, 98 Danbury
It accepts any clean, usable, and up-to-date clothing, as Road, 203-438-4722. For tables, chairs, and tents, call
well as books, records, household items, and small appliances. Keough’s Do It Best Rental at 203-544-8370.
Items may be dropped off Monday through Friday from noon For tools, cleaning and landscaping equipment, machines
to 3:30; Saturday from 10 to 12:30. and home improvement gear, try Young’s Equipment, 91
Do not leave items outside; bring them into the shop. For Danbury Road (203-438-6760/youngs13.tripod.com).
more information, call 203-438-3328. Keough’s Do It Best Rental on Route 7 (203-544-8370/
The money raised by the thrift shop is donated to many dif- keoughs.com) offers a variety of tools and equipment from
ferent organizations and charities, including scholarship grants paint sprayers to jackhammers and backhoes.
for nursing students.
Does the town have a sidewalk sale?
Are there any clothing consignment stores? Ridgefield’s annual street fair, now called Summerfest,
The Children’s Cottage at 23 Catoonah Street carries chil- is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and Downtown
dren’s clothing, maternity clothing, toys, books and such. Call Ridgefield, and take place in July. Merchants set up booths
203-438-3933 or visit childrenscottageonline.com. outdoors and there is entertainment and family activities.
For women’s clothing and accessories, there is Bring N
Buy, 590 Danbury Road. Call 203-438-7714 or visit discount- Are there any bookstores in town?
designerclothingbbt.com. Books on the Common (203-431-9100/booksonthecom-
mon.com), moving to 404 Main Street this month, sells new
Are there any department stores? books for all ages.
The only department store in town is Kohl’s in Copps The Orange Elephant (203-431-7733/orangeelephantbooks.
Hill. The number is 203-438-7767. The nearest mall is the com) is at 383 Main Street. It sells primarily children’s books
Danbury Fair Mall, near where I-84 intersects with Route 7. as well as educational games and toys.
Where is the nearest farmers’ market? Is there a dry cleaners in town?

Markets open this season include Ridgefield (88-90 Dry cleaners in town include Colonial Cleaners, 19
Danbury Road/Route 35), open Fridays, 2-6 (203-894-8690/ Catoonah Street; Copps Hill Laundromat and Dry Cleaners,
ridgefieldfarmersmarket.org); Branchville (at the train sta- 109 Danbury Road; Dry Cleaning Station, 125 Danbury
tion) open Saturdays from 10 to 3); Georgetown (4 Old Road; Frances Cleaners, 145 High Ridge Avenue; MG
Mill Road, near Main & Route 57) open Sundays, 10 to 2 Cleaners & Tailors, CVS plaza; R&E Cleaners, 56 Danbury
(203-544-9205); New Canaan (Center School parking lot) Road; Ridgefield Cleaners, 15 Governor Street; and Sanda’s
open Saturdays, 10 to 2 (newcanaanfarmersmarket.net); and Cleaners, 621 Main Street.
Weston, Saturdays, 9 to noon, at the Weston Historical Society
on Route 57. Where can I go to get shoes or luggage repair?
Farmers’ markets are generally open through October. For The Village Cobbler at 15 Danbury Road (203-431-6484)
more Connecticut farm market listings, check ctfarmfresh.com. offers these services.
The Hickories is a working farm at 126 Lounsbury Road
that operates under a four-season growing schedule. Sales to Is there a self storage facility in town?
the public start with maple syrup in spring, fresh fruits and Ridgefield Self Storage (203-431-0177) is at 872 Ethan
vegetables all summer, and pumpkins and hayrides in the fall. Allen Highway (Route 7); Branchville Self Storage (203-544-
The greenhouse offers fresh salad greens and spinach all 0100) is near the Branchville train station.
winter. The farm stand on Lounsbury Road is open mid-June
through September. At other times, go online to thehickories.
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Transportation 75
Transportation
Who maintains and plows the roads in town? What hours are the municipal parking regulations
The town Highway and Public Services Department, 60 enforced?
South Street, (203-431-2748), under the direction of Highway Parking regulations in the municipal lots are enforced from
Superintendent Pete Hill, maintains all the town roads (190 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. There are two-hour
miles). State roads (30 miles, such as Routes 7 and 35) are and three-hour parking spaces. The municipal lot on Governor
maintained by the Connecticut Highway Department (call Street, next to the Boys & Girls Club, provides all-day (but not
the police, 203-438-6531, or the state highway department overnight) parking.
(203-797-4157) to report problems with state roads). State
roads include Route 35, Route 33, Route 7. Is there overnight parking?
No, not in any lot nor on any street in town after midnight.
To whom do I complain about a pothole? During a snowstorm, the street ban is extended to daylight
Notify either the police department (203-438-6531) or the hours.
highway department (203-431-2748) about potholes or other
road problems. For potholes or other complaints about a state What is the fine for illegal parking?
road, call the state highway department at 203-389-3020. The first parking ticket is free; thereafter, the fine is $15
fine for exceeding parking time limits. Drivers are allowed one
Whom do I call to replace or fix a street sign? free pass per fiscal year. There are higher fees for more serious
Call the highway department at 203-431-2748. offenses. A late fee is added if the fine is not paid within 15 days.
What are the typical speed limits in town? Can I get a special permit to park in town?
All town roads are 25 miles per hour, and state roads vary Permits are sold through lottery every June and December,
up to 45 miles per hour. allowing all-day parking in certain limited-time lots in the
village. Lots include CVS, Mariner, Bailey Avenue, and
What’s the fine for speeding here? Donnelly. For application details, call the parking authority at
All fines for motor vehicle infractions and violations are set 203-431-2765. The fee is $60 for six months.
by the state and published in a booklet available in most public
libraries, police departments, and DMV offices. It is also avail- Where can I get a handicapped permit to park?
able online at jud.ct.gov/Publications/Infractions/infractions. A special parking permit application (form B-225) can be
pdf. Speeding tickets for cars going over 55 miles per hour picked up at any DMV office. It can also be mailed to you by
range from $123 for going one to nine mph over the posted calling 800-842-8222 or by request online at dmvct.state.ct.us/
limit to $211 for 23 mph and over the posted limit. Fines are B225.htm.
higher for construction, utility, and school zones. Traveling
unreasonably fast pertains to cars going under 56 mph. The Where are the closest motor vehicle department
fines in this bracket range from $103 for one to nine mph over offices?
the posted limit to $191 for 23 or more mph over the limit, The nearest are in Danbury at 2 Lee Mac Avenue and
again with greater penalties for construction, utility and school Norwalk, 540 Main Avenue. Both are open 8 to 4:30 on
zones. The fine for passing a standing school bus, no matter Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday; 8 to 7 on Thursday, and 8 to
how fast or slow you are going is $460 for the first offense. 12:30 on Saturday. For information, call 800-842-8222 or visit
The same offense in a construction or utility zone is $760. dmvct.org.
What are the penalties for DUI? Do I have to get my car inspected regularly?
A person is considered under the influence of alcohol when A safety inspection is not required for passenger vehicles.
their blood alcohol level is .08. The threshold is .02 for a Any vehicle from out of state must have an emissions test and
person under 21. State penalties for a first offense include a VIN verification before being registered.
$500 to $1,000 fine and (1) up to six months in jail (48 hours
mandatory) and a one-year license suspension or (2) six-month Is there an emissions testing program?
suspended sentence, 100 hours community service, and a one- Yes. You will be notified by mail of your test days. Vehicles
year license suspension. A second offense within 10 years will must be tested every other year. New vehicles less than four
get you a fine of $1,000 to $4,000, and up to two years in jail years old or more than 25 years old are exempt. If you do
(120 days mandatory), required 100 hours of community ser- not have your vehicle tested, it does not pass, or has not been
vice, and three years license suspension. A third offense within granter a waiver, DMV will not renew your registration. For
10 years will land you in jail for at least one year and result information and testing stations, call 1-888-828-8399 or visit
in the permanent revocation of your license. You can also be online at ctemissions.com.
fined $2,000 to $8,000. In Ridgefield, motorists can get their emissions test done
at Limestone Service Station (203-438-8028), 399 Danbury
How can I find out about a traffic jam on the high- Road, or Copps Hill Shell (203-438-2433), 130 Danbury
way? Road.
The Department of Transportation offers an electronic rail
and highway traffic incident notification system via e-mail. It How soon after I move into the state do I need to get
is free and available 24/7. To sign up, go online to ct.gov/dot a Connecticut driver’s license?
and click on “Register for E-Alerts.” A new state license is needed within 30 days. If you have a
valid license from another state, you do not need to take a road
Is there free municipal parking? test. You must apply for a Connecticut license at a full-service
All parking is free within the regulations posted by spaces. DMV office. Call 800-842-8222 for details.
76 Pets & Animals The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
Pets & Animals

What does Ridgefield Animal Control do? The ROAR Shelter at 45 South Street (203-438-0158/roar-
The canine division of the police department is managed by ridgefield.org) offers adoptions of dogs and cats that have been
Animal Control Officer David Coles and deals with domestic surrendered by their owner or adoptable animals that have
animals, specifically dogs, and any wild animal that comes in been rescued from other shelters.
contact with a domestic animal or person. The canine shelter is Many shelters, including Ridgefield Animal Control, list
at 40 South Street. The department does not do pest control or adoptable animals on petfinder.com.
body removal. The phone number is 203-431-2711 or e-mail
canine@ridgefieldct.org. What is ROAR?
The Ridgefield Operation for Animal Rescue (ROAR) is
Where do I get a dog license? a private, nonprofit organization headquartered at the shelter
The town clerk in the town hall sells dog licenses. All dogs, at 45 South Street. ROAR’s mission is to promote responsible
six months and older, must be licensed. Call 203-431-2783. treatment of abandoned and sheltered animals and to find them
A current rabies certificate is required. For a reduced cost, loving homes, and to bring animals and people together in
proof of the dog’s being spayed or altered must be shown. The mutually satisfying relationships.
cost is $19 for an animal that has not been spayed or altered, ROAR also administers a therapy dog program that
and $8 for an animal that has. Dogs must be licensed by July includes training for certification and participation in visits
1. The fine for having an unlicensed dog is $75. with seniors and in literacy efforts in schools. For informa-
tion, visit online at roar-ridgefield.org or e-mail shelter@roar-
Do I have to have my cat vaccinated? ridgefield.org
Yes, Connecticut state law requires that all dogs and cats be
given rabies vaccinations. (Cats do not need licenses.) My car hit a dog. What should I do?
Do not pick the animal up or try to help it. Injured animals
Are there rabies clinics in the area? often bite. State law says you must report the accident to the
The town offers a rabies clinic each year in late spring. police (2-03-438-6531) and wait for them to arrive. They’ll
The town clerk’s office has a list of clinics offered throughout call Ridgefield Animal Control (203-431-2711).
the region and state. Veterinarians, of course, will administer
rabies vaccinations any time. Where can I take my pet in an emergency?
The Animal Emergency Clinic of Danbury (203-790-
Are there animal hospitals in town? 6383) is at 22 Newtown Road, Danbury. It is open Monday
There are Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital at 30 Old through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. and Friday from 6
Quarry Road, 203-438-8878; Ridgefield Animal Hospital at p.m. to 8 a.m. the following Monday; and 24 hours on most
614 Main Street, 203-431-4444; and Ridgefield Veterinary holidays.
Hospital, 722 Danbury Road, 203-438-2658. The Veterinary Referral and Emergency Clinic at 134
West Cedar Street, Norwalk, is open 24 hours. Call 203-854-
My dog is lost. Where can I get help? 9960 or visit online at vcavrec.com.
Call Ridgefield Animal Control at 203-431-2711. You If your pet has eaten something poisonous and you can’t
may also want to call the animal control officers in neighbor- reach your own veterinarian right away, you can call the
ing towns, particularly if your dog has been missing more than ASPCA Poison Control Hotline at 800-548-2423. It is staffed
24 hours. 24 hours, but there is a charge for services.
What is the law regarding roaming dogs? Whom may I call if my pet dies at home?
Dogs must be confined to one’s own property or under con- Most veterinarians will assist in sending a pet for burial or
trol, such as with a leash, if off the property. cremation. You may also call All Pets Crematory in Stamford
It is illegal to allow a dog to soil any private property, (203-967-4949/allpetscrematory.com), which offers a number
school ground, public park, public street, sidewalk or right of of services and will come to your house to pick up your pet.
way, or public property. Ridgefield has a pooper-scooper law,
and people walking their dogs are reminded to clean up after May I keep horses and livestock?
them. Violators can be fined. Owners of property in the R-7.5, R-10, R-20, and SDR20
zones — most of which are in the downtown area of
Where is a good place to take a dog for a run? Ridgefield— may not keep livestock on plots of less than half
There is a park in town just for dogs. The Bark Park is an acre. The town defines livestock as “any camelid or hooved
on Prospect Ridge and Hampton Court, next to Congregate animal such as cattle, bison, swine, goats, sheep, lamas,
Housing. Be sure to obey posted rules and clean up after your horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, and other hooved animals, and
dog. poultry.” Violators can be fined $100 to $250 per day.
Are there dog obedience schools in the area? Is the town doing anything to control deer?
The recreation department offers obedience and Good Ridgefield is in the Department of Environmental
Citizen dog training. Call 203-431-2755. There are also sev- Protection’s Region 11, which has the highest density of deer
eral private dog obedience businesses in the area. Check The in the state. Estimates of the deer population vary widely,
Press’s classified ads. ranging from 62 to 29 per square mile.
In response to the abundant deer population, the town runs
Where can I adopt a dog or cat? a controlled hunt on town-owned open spaces, with a goal of
Dogs may be adopted at the dog pound on South Street reducing the deer population to 20 per square mile. The hunts
(203-431-2711). take place on posted properties throughout town.
ridgefield answerbook.10
r idgef i e l d a n s we r b o o k i n d e x o f a d ve r t i s e r s
ABC Moving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 M. Gentile Tree Service, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Able Painting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 MacDonald Pin Dancers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Albano Appliance & Service, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Maxwell’s Fine Gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Mike’s Construction, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
All Phases Masonry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Mohler, Nita/William PittSotheby’s International
Ancona’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Realty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Animal Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Nancy O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Ann’s Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Nature’s Temptations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
BBM Home Improvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Nutmeg Livery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Bissell Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Osgood Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Blast Lyme/Ridgefield Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Osteopathic Wellness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Books on the Common. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The Perennial Chef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Branchville Oil Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Practically Green. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Branchville Self Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Prial, Susanne/William Pitt Sotheby’s
Brunjes Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 International Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Caraluzzi’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Quality Seamless Gutters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44, 67
Caravetta, Marilyn/William Raveis . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Carlson Therapy Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Redding Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Castelli CCL Construction & Landscape, Inc. . . . . . 67 Ridgefield Academy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Chase, Debbie/Prudential CT Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Ridgefield Community Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Clark Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ridgefield Family Eye Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Ridgefield Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Copps HIll Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Ridgefield Montessori School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Deborah Ann’s Sweet Shoppe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Ridgefield Printing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Dimitri’s Diner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Ridgefield Recreation Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Dr. Allan Phillips, DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Ridgefield Roofing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Eco Systems, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Ridgefield Visting Nurse Assocation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Exteriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Ron’s Home Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Fairfield County Painters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Salem Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Family Medical Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Service Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66, 67
Frey, John/State Representative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 St. Mary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Genoa Deli & Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Starbuck Equestrian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Georgetown Martial Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Task Medical Staffing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Georgetown Veterinary Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Temple Shearith Israel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
The Gilded Nest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Topstone Advisors, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
The Greens at Cannondale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Touch of Sedona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
John Findorak & Sons, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Union Savings Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Jonathan Milord Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Vibbert’s Tree & Yard Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Kane Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Villarina’s Pasta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Keeler Tavern Museum & Garden House . . . . . . . . . . 6 William PittSotheby’s
Kiddy Kars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 International Realty/Ridgefield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Knapp Landcaping & Tree Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Wilton Dance Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Landmark Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Winter Garden Ice Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Laurel Ridge Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Wooster School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Little People Learning Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Y.Z. Jewelry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56, 57
Little Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Yankee Doodle, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Lock Install . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 The Yoga Shala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Lucci Electric. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Young’s of Ridgefield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
78 Reader’s Index The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut August 19, 2010
100 Things to Do, 70 Colleges, 28 Historian, town, 8 Passports, 16

911, 38, 43, 58 Commissions, town, 15, 16 Historic points of interest, 6 Permit, building, 18, 32
AARP, 31, 57 Community gardens, 72 Histories, town, 8 Permit, burn, 33
ABC program, 23, 79 Commuter parking, 75 Home businesses, 33 Permit, zoning, 18, 32
Adult education, 28, 51, 79 Concert hall, 68 Home health care, 50 Pet adoptions, 76
Alarms, 44 Concerts, summer, 69 Horses, 54, 76 Pharmacies, 50
Alcoholics Anonymous, 55 Congress, U.S., 20 Hospice, 50 Philanthropic Youth Council,
Aldrich Contemporary Art Connecticut Academic Perfor- House, state, 20 63
Museum, 23, 59, 60, 64, 68, mance Test, 23 Houses of worship, 49 Pick-your-own, 74
69, 79 Connecticut Mastery Test, 23 Houses, old, 8 Planner, town, 18
Ambulance service, 43 Conservation Commission, 19 Housing sales, 10 Planning and Zoning, 19
American Association of Uni- Consignment stores, 74 Hunting, 62 Playgrounds, 59
versity Women, 70, 79 Consumer protection, 73 Income, median, 10 Police Commission, 15, 20
American Cancer Society, 52, Counseling, domestic abuse, Infoline, 50, 52, 63 Police department, 44
58 30 Inns, 73 Political parties, 14, 70,
Animal control, 55, 76 Counseling, teen, 63 Italian-American Mutual Aid Population, 10
Animal hospitals, 76 CPR, 51 Society, 70 Postal service, 73
Animals, roaming, 76 Danbury Hospital, 43, 50, 52, Jobs for students, 63 Printers, 73
Apartments, 31, 56 53, 58 Keeler Tavern Museum, 6, 64, Probate, 15, 18
Aquarion, 38 Day care, adult, 50 69, 70 PTA, 26
Artists groups, 68 Day care, child, 63 Lacrosse, 23, 64, 79 Rabies, 54
Assessments, property, 12, 13 Deeds, old, 15 Laurel Ridge Health Care Radio stations, 72
Bark Park, 59 Deer, 62 Center, 56 Radon gas, 35
Barn, the, 63 Department stores, 74 League of Women Voters, 71 Rail Trail, 60
Baseball, 23, 64 Discovery Center, 70 Legal notices, 16, 20 Records, public, 13, 15
Basketball, 23, 60, 79 DMV offices, 75 License, dog, 84 Recycling, 31, 38
Beaches, 60 Doctors, 50, 58 License, driver's, 14 Registrars of voters, 11, 14
Bed and breakfast, 32, 73 Dogs, 59, 76 License, fishing, 16, 62 Rental equipment, 74
Better Business Bureau, 73 Downtown Ridgefield, 73, 79 License, hunting, 16, 62 Rental space, 29, 63, 73
Bible study, 49 Drinking age, 63 License, marriage, 15 Retirement communities, 56
Bicycling, 61, 70, 82 Elections, 14 Lions Club, 71 Ridgefield Arts Council, 16,
Bikes, mountain, 60 Electric power, 38 Little Red Schoolhouse, 6 31, 68
Birth certificate, 15 Emergency Operations Center, Lyme disease, 16, 50, 52, 54 Ridgefield Chorale, 68
Blood drives, 51 46, 47 Magazines, 72 Ridgefield Community Center,
Blood pressure, 52 Emergency rooms, 43 Marine Corps League, 31, 72 57, 63, 70, 73
Board of Education, 15, 16, Emergency shelters, 47 Masons, 70 Ridgefield Community
21, 24 Emergency, town wide, 47 Meals on Wheels, 30, 57 Foundation, 63
Board of Finance, 12, 15, 16, False alarms, 46 Mental illness, 47, 50, 53 Ridgefield Guild of Artists, 28,
18, 24 Family & Children's Agency, Mill rate, 12 64, 79
Board of Selectmen, 11, 15, 30 MOMS Club, 71, 79 Ridgefield Historical Society,
16, 18, 24 Farmers' markets, 74 Movies, 29, 56, 68 8, 79
Boards, town, 16, 24 Fingerprints, 46 Museum in the Streets, 6 Ridgefield Library, 29, 68, 70,
Boating, 62 Fire department, 43, 44 Museums, 69, 70 72
Bookstores, 74 First selectman, 11 Music, chamber, 69 Ridgefield Men's Club, 57
Boys and Girls Club, 64, 79 FISH, 50, 58, 70 Music, folk, 69 Ridgefield Playhouse, 68
Budget, school, 28 Fishing, 59, 62 Music, live, 68 Ridgefield Press, 72
Budget, town, 12 Flags, old, 31 Music, sacred, 69 Ridgefield Recreation Center,
Building inspector, 18 Flu shots, 51 National Charity League, 72, 11, 59
Buses, public, 50 Food bank, 30 79 Ridgefield Visiting Nurse As-
Cable TV, 38 Football, 21, 64, 79 National Merit Scholarship, 22 sociation, 47, 50, 51, 52, 53,
Calendar of events, Founders Hall, 56, 57 Newcomers Club, 70 58, 72
community, 31, 68, 72 Founding of town, 6 Newspapers, 72 Ridgefield Woman's Club, 47,
Calendar, school, 22 Fountain, 8 Norwalk Hospital, 43, 50, 58 58, 71
Camping, 59, 62 Friends of the Ridgefield Notary public, 20 ROAR, 76
Camps, summer, 64 Library, 29 Nursing home, 56, Rotary Club, 71
Cats, 76 Garbage, 35 Officials, town, 24 Running, 61
Cell phones, 38, 41, 58 Gold card, 56 Old Timer's Association, 71 Safe Rides, 63
Cemeteries, 31 Golf, 23, 61 Open space, 18, 30, 60, 72 Salaries, fire department, 44
Chamber of Commerce, 31, Goodwill, 31 Orchestras, 68 Salaries, police department, 46
73, 79 Governor, 20 Parking permit, 75 Salaries, teachers, 25
Churches, 49 Grand list, 11 Parking, 75 Salvation Army, 31
Clinics, flu, 51 Health department, 50 Parks and Recreation Com- SAT scores, 22
Clinics, well-child, 52 Health fair, 51 mission, 16, 19 School calendar, 22
Clubs, senior, 67 Hiking, 59, 60 Parks, 59 School cancellations, 21
August 19, 2010 The Ridgefield Answerbook, Ridgefield, Connecticut Reader’s Index/Web Sites 79
School clubs, 23 Skate park, 60 Swimming, 59 Veterans, 72

School district office, 21 Skating, ice, 68 Synagogues, 49 Volleyball, 23
School registration, 25 Snow removal, 33 Tax collector, 12 Volunteers, 70
Schools, art, 28 Soccer, 23, 59, 64 Taxes, property 12, 13 Voter enrollment, 14
Schools, dance, 28 Social services, 30, 31, 38, Television stations, 72 Voting, 14, 15
Schools, nursery, 26 56, 58 Tennis, 23, 60, 64 Waste, hazardous, 35
Schools, private, 27, 28 Softball, 23, 60, 64 Theater company, 68 Water, public, 38
Schools, public, 24, 25 Special education, 26, 64 Thrift store, 74 Web sites, 79
Scouts, 64 Speeding, 75 Town clerk, 16 Weddings, 15, 70
Senate, state, 20 SPHERE, 52 Town meeting, 16 Weir Farm, 6, 70
Senate, U.S., 20 SPIF, 56 Town offices, 11 Wetlands, 18
Senior center, 56 Sports, adult, 60 Transfer station, 35, 38 Winter Garden, 60
Senior health care, 56, 58 Sports, noncompetitive, 65 Transportation, senior, 58 Writers' groups, 72
Senior housing, 56 Sports, school, 23 Travel shots, 51 Young Life, 49
Septic systems, 32 Sports, youth, 64 Treasurer, town, 18 Zoning Board of Appeals, 19
Sewers, 32, 38 Street fair, 74 Trees, 18, 33 Zoning enforcement, 18
Sewing club, 72 Substance abuse, 50 Unemployment rate, 10 Zoning laws, 32
Sidewalk sales, 74 Supermarkets, 74 Vaccines, HPV, 56
Signs, 33 Support groups, 52 Vaccines, meningococcal, 52
Singing groups, 68 SweetHART, 50, 58 Vaccines, shingles, 52
Ridgefield Web Sites

ABC Program: ridgefieldabc.org Ridgefield Babe Ruth Leauge: ridgefieldbaberuth.org
Adesso Choral Society: adessochoralsociety.com Ridgefield Baptist Church: ridgefieldbaptist.org
Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum: aldrichart.org Ridgefield Basketball Association: rbahoops.org
American Association of University Women: aauw-ct-ridgefield.org Ridgefield Boys & Girls Club: rbgclub.com
Back to the Wild Rehabilitation: backtothewildrehab.com Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce: ridgefieldchamber.org
Boy Scout Troop 76, based at Jesse Lee: troop76.org Ridgefield Chorale: ridgefieldchorale.org
Chabad Jewish Center of Ridgefield: chabadridgefield.com Ridgefield Community Center: lounsburyhouse.com
CHIRP (Concert Happenings in Ridgefield Parks): chirpct.org Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance: ridgefielddance.org
Democratic Town Committee: ridgefielddems.org Ridgefield Farmers Market: ridgefieldfarmersmarket.org
Discovery Center (nature, history, environmental, and youth pro- Ridgefield Golf Club: rgconline.org
grams): ridgefielddiscovery.org Ridgefield Guild of Artists: rgoa.org
Downtown Ridgefield: downtownridgefield.com Ridgefield Historical Society: ridgefieldhistoricalsociety.org
First Church of Christ, Scientist (with a link to the Christian Science Ridgefield Lacrosse: ridgefieldlax.com
Monitor): christiansciencect.org/ridgefield Ridgefield Ladies Golf Association: rlga.net
First Congregational Church (with a collection of recent sermons): Ridgefield Library: ridgefieldlibrary.org
firstcongregational.com Ridgefield Lions Club: lionwap.org/RidgefieldCT
Founders Hall: founders-hall.org Ridgefield Little League: ridgefieldlittleleague.org
Goodwill Industries: goodwillwct.com Ridgefield Men’s Club: ridgefieldmensclub.org
History of Ridgefield: jackfsanders.tripod.com/history.htm Ridgefield Newcomers Club: ridgefieldnewcomers.org
Housatonic Valley Council of Elected Officials (covers regional issues Ridgefield Open Space Association: rosaopenspace.org
and offers interesting maps): hvceo.org Ridgefield Parks and Rec: ridgefieldct.org
Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church: jesseleechurch.com Ridgefield Playhouse: ridgefieldplayhouse.org
Keeler Tavern Museum: keelertavernmuseum.org Ridgefield Press: theridgefieldpress.com
Knights of Columbus: kofc245.org Ridgefield public schools: ridgefield.org
League of Women Voters of Ridgefield: lwvct.org/ridgefield Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra: ridgefieldsymphony.org/
Marine Corps League Ridgefield Detachment: orgsites.com/ct/ridge- Ridgefield Theater Barn: ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org
fieldctmcl Ridgefield Tigers: ridgefieldfootball.com
Meals on Wheels: mealcall.org/meals-on-wheels/ct/ridgefield.htm Ridgefield Town Government (official site): ridgefieldct.org
MOMS Club of Ridgefield and Redding: http://momsclubridgefield. Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association: ridgefieldvna.org
tripod.com Ridgefield Women’s Softball League: rwsa.net
National Charity League, Nutmeg Chapter: nclnutmeg.com Ridgefield Young Life: ridgefieldct.younglife.org
R-Comm (Ridgefield’s emergency communications group of ham ROAR: roar-ridgefield.org
radio operators; local radio information, weather sources, emergency Rotary Club: ridgefieldrotary.org
info, etc.): studioone-ct.com/R-Com/ Soccer Club of Ridgefield: scor.org
Newcomers Club: ridgefieldnewcomers.org St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church: standrewselca.com
Republican Town Committee: ridgefieldgop.org St. Elizabeth Seton: stsetonridgefield.com
Ridgebury Congregational Church (with a history of Ridgebury): St. Mary’s Church: stmarysridgefield.org
ridgeburychurch.org St. Mary’s School: smsridgefield.org
Ridgefield Academy: ridgefieldacademy.com St. Stephen’s Church: ststephens-ridgefield.org
Ridgefield Action Committee for the Environment: racefortheearth. Temple Shearith Israel: tsiridgefield.org
com The Acoustic Celebration: acousticcelebration.org
Ridgefield Adult Education: ridgefieldschools.org Winter Garden Arena: wintergardenarena.com
Ridgefield Arts Council: ridgefieldartscouncil.org Wolfpit Running Club: wolfpitrunningclub.org
Ridgefield Aquatic Club: racswimming.org
Ridgefield’s
voice in Hartford
“Making government
work for all of us.”
Two Copps Hill Road Ridgefield, CT 06877 E-mail: john.frey@housegop.ct.gov

Rep. John Frey
My number one priority is
Telephone: Capitol 800.842.1423 Home 203.431.6799
to effectively address the

concerns of all Ridgefielders.
As your state representative,
I have worked to cut taxes,
increase school aid, improve
health care, preserve open
space and secure important
state funds to enhance
Ridgefield's quality of life.
I am dedicated to making
Connecticut a better place
to live, work, and raise a family.

Ridgefield Answer Book 2010

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Ridgefield Answer Book 2010

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

ridgefield

������������ ������������� ��������������� ������������� ��������������� ����������� ������������

������������ ��������������� ������������ �������������� ����������� ��������� �����������������

������������ ���������� ���������� ����������� ������������� ������������� �������������

470 Main Street

������������� ���������� �������������

���������� ������������� ����������������

��������������� ��������������� �������������� ������������ �������������� ����������

Overlooking a brick walled garden with

������������������������� ����������������������� ���������������������

��������������������������� ��������������������� From Everyday

�������������� ������������� ������������ ������� ����������

s a f e t r a n s p ortation for kids

Garzi at 203-431-2706. You may also visit the tax assessor’s

What do the registrars of voters do?

Who may register to vote?

������������� 438-2282) or downloaded from sots.state.ct.us.

Who can vote in a primary?

�������������� Are there voting districts in town?

Who can vote by absentee ballot?

cannot vote in person are entitled to the absentee ballot. The

RIDGEFIELD PARKS & RECREATION

• "After the Bell" and Children's Recreation Programs

������������������� Who is the town’s judge of probate?

What does the Board of Finance do?

eccommission@ridgefieldct.org. What state senatorial district are we in?

Who are Connecticut’s senators?

����� He is not seeking re-election this fall.

A full-day kindergarten program begins this fall.

����������������������� ��� ���� �� ��� ����� ���������

Are our students physically fit?

What interscholastic sports are offered at the high ���������� � �����������

What extracurricular activities are at the high

Planning and Zoning

If your child is to be enrolled in an elementary school and

Is there an art school nearby? Where is the nearest vocational school?

Can I access the catalog from my home?

at 316 Main Street, and can be reached by calling 203-438-

How can the town social worker help me?

Does anyone help victims of domestic violence or

Does the town have a food bank?

431-2783. Funeral Home (203-544-8461).

SEE HOW BEAUTIFUL THE

What is radon gas? How serious is it?

Is there municipal garbage collection?

Where does the town’s garbage go?

��������������� ������������� �������������������

����� ����������������������������� ������������������������

������������������� ���������������� ��������������

At Union Savings Bank, we take great pride in our communities.

facility. For details, visit the Housatonic Resources Recovery

Will I have water if my power goes out?

What parts of town have sewer service?

Who offers cable TV?

Where is the police department?

����� ���� ���������� ��� ��������� ����� ��

��� �� �� ��� �������

Is there a fee for false alarms?

������������ call 1-800-889-3340 and press 3 to volunteer or for more

Where can I find free transportation to-and-from my

with NO SUBCONTRACTING ����������������

Where can I get more details on Lyme disease?

�������������������� (203-847-1998/elderhouse.net) in Norwalk, and Almost Home

Is there a nursing home in town?

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

�� From Everyday

��

�� 438-2282) or downloaded from sots.state.ct.us.

�� Are there voting districts in town?

�� Who is the town’s judge of probate?

�� He is not seeking re-election this fall.

��

What interscholastic sports are offered at the high ��

��

��

��

��

��

�� call 1-800-889-3340 and press 3 to volunteer or for more

with NO SUBCONTRACTING ��

�� (203-847-1998/elderhouse.net) in Norwalk, and Almost Home

��