Fairfield County Real Estate Blog

A Better Chance is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing urban young people of color with stellar education opportunities. Their purpose is to ensure that America has a well-educated diverse population ready to assume positions of power and leadership. Historically, inner-city students and students of color have not had access to the highest quality education. In 1963, headmasters from a selection of higher level independent  institutions decided to broaden their schools demographic profile and by extension change the demographic profile of colleges and board rooms across America.

 A Better Chance has chapters across the country and one is here in Ridgefield. Ridgefield ABC (RABC) was established in 1987. Since then, thirty-six students have graduated from Ridgefield High School and 100% went on to higher education at some of the country’s finest institutions.  While at RABC, students are also supported and guided by local host families, and 200 independent day and boarding schools. Students receive private tutoring , counseling, and help with SAT and ACT test preparation . All this could not be done without a network of volunteers and donations.  RABC is financed entirely with donations and fundraisers. The next event is a golf tournament.  If you think you can devote some time or money to RABC contact them on line at http://ridgefieldabc.org/support.html

During the coming year, we will continue to take a look at the civic and charitable organizations that contribute to making Ridgefield a fabulous place to live and work.

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What’s the big deal about the Census and 10 simple questions you ask? According to information from Census.gov you are making a statement about what resources your community needs. 

The Census data affects us all politically, economically and socially. The information and resulting statistics will help determine how much federal funding Ridgefield will have available to spend on infrastructure and services. Our emergency services, senior centers, hospitals, and schools all depend on federal funds. The Census data also affects the number of seats Connecticut will have in the US House of Representatives. Ridgefield residents have used Census data to support environmental and quality of life issues.

Completing the Census form is mandatory. The forms should arrive during the month of March. Simply complete the simple form and mail it back. If you fail to return your form, you may receive a visit from a Census taker. They will ask the questions in person. The 2010 Census wil count all US citizens and non-citizens. This will give us an fairly accurate number of how many people are in the villages, towns and cities across the US and Puerto Rico. The form cannot be filled out online.

The first US Census was taken in 1790 and the population was 3,929,000. At that time, the entire populaton of the country would fit into the ciy of Los Angeles, current population over 4 million. We’ve come a long way!

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According to a research study from the University of Kentucky Center for Poverty Research and Iowa State University, certain groups of seniors citizens are more at risk of going hungry. The statistics are alarming. According to the 2001-2005 Population Survey, Of the over 5 million seniors in America, 2.5 million are at risk of going hungry and 750,00 are hungry. Senior hunger doesn’t just fall into the “poor inner-city communities. Seniors living alone or with a non-adult grandchild are at higher risk than those living with an adult child, as well as seniors living in rural communities. Senior hunger cuts across all demographics. Fifty percent of all seniors at risk of going hungry, have incomes above the poverty level. And you can help!

Contact the local Ridgefield, CT Meals on Wheels or Senior Meal Program to volunteer to drive or donate. Volunteer drivers are the backbone of the program, and they are always needed. However, if you cannot volunteer your time in Ridgefield, but can make a financial donation to the organization, go to MOWAA.org.

Meals-on-Wheels, 25 Gilbert Street #A6, Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-4389-8788

Senior Center, 193 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield, CT 06877, Phone: 203-431-2764

To contact Debi Orr or view the HomeVision Team Website.

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The earthquake devastation that hit Haiti was not limited to Port-Au-Prince. Jacmel, population 90,000, was 70% destroyed, yet not much relief is getting to Jacmel. Most of the press and aid has centered around Port-Au-Prince.  In a meeting last Wednesday, Ridgefielders agreed to lend support to the town, much like they did in the aftermath of Hurricane Katirna.

Isabel and Jonathan Chase, Betsy Brand and Lori Bova, Ridgefield residents, organized the “Ridgefield Responds - Hope for Jacmel, Haiti” relief effort. The organizers brainstormed with about 30 other Ridgefielders to come up with ideas on how to best lend support to Jacmel, and how to ensure that goods or services are received by the people who need it. The short term goal is to supply food, water, medical help and supplys like cots, blankets, flashlights,  etc.  And, of course, money is needed to make this happen. The organizers stress that 100% of all aid they receive from Ridgefield citizens will go directly to Jacmel. Money donated to to other organizations like the Red Cross may not get to Jacmel for some time. The long term goal is for “Ridgefield Responds - Hope for Jacmel, Haiti” to be there when rebuilding begins.  Ridgefield plans to be there for the long haul.

Ms. Chase is the primary contact for the project. If you would like to volunteer your time or make a donation, she can be reached at 203-431-8531. More information on Jacmel, Haiti and donations can also be found on AngelWingsInternational.org.

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Ridgefield CT Real Estate and Wilton CT Homes for Sale

Click here to Search homes for sale in Ridgefield, Wilton, Redding and the surrounding Ridgefield area.

There are numerous articles and several popular TV shows on the subject of making that all important first impression with proper home staging. And there is a reason the topic is so popular - home staging works!

One approach to staging your home to appeal to the most potential buyers is to downplay your home’s weaknesses.  For example, if you have less than fabulous closet space, make sure they show at their best. Buyers want defined space and if your closets are crammed full of junk or used for office storage instead of clothes, a potential buyer will be turned off.

Remove anything that does not belong in the site specific closet. If your guest bedroom closet is used for overflow book storage, unused office equipment, or toy storage, move it. For the illusion of a larger closet, use half the amount of hanging clothes you would normally store in a bedroom closet. Use baskets or boxes on the top shelves to keep smaller loose items neatly out of site.  Shoe racks, or even baskets, will keep the closet floor neat and tidy.  Follow through with the Pantry and Entry closets.

Apply a fresh coat of light colored paint to the inside and don’t forget the outside trim and door. Install discreet lighting or replace any harsh raw lighting. If needed, change out the hardware to a more updated style, keeping in mind the room’s decor.

If you want to sell your home, make sure it stands out for the competition with proper staging. Play up your homes strengths and downplay the weaknesses.

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Ridgefield CT Real Estate and Wilton CT Homes for Sale

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Share Your Fish Tale Before January 15th to Be Part of the Acquarium Exhibit!!!

The big one that got away. The time Uncle Bob lost his fishing rod. Everyone has a fishing tale. Whether it was you or someone you know, the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk wants to hear it. The stories will be included in the next major event at the Acquarium.The new exhibit will explore the relationship with fish and fishing the Sound.

We thought this was pretty fun and wanted to pass it along.

So share your stories and pictures. The only catch is that the story has to be about fishing on Long Island Sound and the story needs to be kept to one paragraph.

Here’s what else to include:

• your name, telephone number and email address or other contact information.

• for photos or videos: the date and time of when it was shot and also the location. (This can be as specific as GPS_coordinates or as simple as, for example, “300 yards west of Cockenoe Island.”)

Entries will be accepted for consideration until Jan. 15, 2010. The Maritime Aquarium’s Submission and Usage Policy should be reviewed before sending any material. It’s available online at www.maritimeaquarium.org/special_exhibits1.html.

Email submissions to: fish@maritimeaquarium.org This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Or mail them to: Exhibits Department, c/o Becky Schaefer, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT 06854.

For more information about Maritime Aquarium exhibits, IMAX movies, programs and events, go online to www.maritimeaquarium.org. Or call (203) 852-0700.

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Ridgefield CT Real Estate and Wilton CT Homes for Sale

Click here to Search homes for sale in Ridgefield, Wilton, Redding and the surrounding Ridgefield area.

This time of the year there is always so much going on. There is shopping, cooking and cleaning to be done. But there is also so much to do in Ridgefield that is just FUN! I really enjoy the opportunities that Ridgefield offers to get out of the house and enjoy the neighbors!

I just wanted to remind you about some upcoming events that are a Ridgefield tradition!

Dont’ forget about the Downtown Ridgefield Holiday Stroll. This is a fun event on Friday December 4th, 2009 (6:00pm to 10:00pm) and Saturday December 5th, 2009 (10am to 4pm) for the whole family. And best of all - it’s FREE!!!
The Event starts with a Kickoff Parade that starts at 6 pm, Friday night. The route will be Catoonah and Main Street. There will be Carolers, Dancers and Clowns! Something for the whole family.

Visit the Ridgefield Website for additional information about the Holiday Stroll Champagne Reception from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Ridgefield Guild of Artists. Admission to this event, and regular shopping hours, is free. All proceeds go towards the Guild , a not-for-profit, serving more than 300 member artists.

The Ridgefield Holiday House Tour is a must see event where your participation also makes a difference. The Tickets are $30 in advance at Squash’s and Bella Home or by calling 748-8626. Tickets on day of tour $35 at the Community Center. All proceeds benefit Tiger Hollow Inc.’s on-going maintenance and capital improvements. December 4th at 9:30 a.m.

Be sure to check out the Main Gallery – 5th Annual Festive Home Sale at Guild of Artists: Home for the Holidays (Nov 21 – Dec 20, 2009). Click HERE for hours and information.

Well, we certainly hope to run into you that weekend! We can share a cup of cider!

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Ridgefield CT Real Estate and Wilton CT Homes for Sale

Click here to Search homes for sale in Ridgefield, Wilton, Redding and the surrounding Ridgefield area.

Part of Ridgefield’s charm is its rich history. During 2008, the town celebrated its 300^th anniversary with numerous events held throughout the year. While the celebration concluded on the anniversary of the founding of the town, September 30^th, one permanent exhibit remains — the network of plaques known as Museum in the Streets.

This heritage discovery trail provides insights into Ridgefield’s varied history through photos and stories on the exact sites where buildings stood and events took place. Most of the plaques can be enjoyed via a walking tour through downtown but a car will be needed to access others in the Branchville and Ridgebury sections of town. Museum in the Streets brings the past to life and helps promote the knowledge and respect of local traditions. To get started on this fun self-guided tour, download a Printed Guide from ridgefield300.org/museum.

I’ve included a couple photos below for you to see. This is such a unique tour and I am very excited to share this with you!

Keeler Tavern and the “Big Shop”	Signs describing the tour are at each location.
Settler’s Rock	Titicus: An Industrial Center
Map of Museum in the Streets in Ridgefield, CT	Old Church with Watering Trough for Horses

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Ridgefield CT Real Estate and Wilton CT Homes for Sale

Click here to Search homes for sale in Ridgefield, Wilton, Redding and the surrounding Ridgefield area.

   Treetops of Ridgefield: A Village within a Village Imagine yourself in these Luxury townhomes in the heart of Ridgefield, CT ( www.treetopsofridgefield.com)

Built to satisfy the most discriminating buyer, the townhomes at Treetops of Ridgefield include artisan materials and finish detail of the finest quality: 5” wide oak select flooring, natural stone baths, custom Kingswood cabinetry, Windsor trim on doors and windows, 2-panel interior doors with brushed nickel hardware and 9 ½” crown molding on the main level.  Enter each unit through the Craftsman-style solid mahogany front door to an entry with tile flooring and bead board wainscoting.  The stone & clapboard façade provides a welcoming entrance to each unit which includes a gas fireplace and gas heat with Energy Star rated furnaces, appliances and state-of-the-art insulation. Mahogany decks with craftsman railings, Carriage style garage doors as well as security and intercom systems further differentiate these townhomes from all others.Whether you’re down-sizing or simply choosing to live a more leisurely lifestyle, you’ll enjoy life among the Treetops just a short walk from Ridgefield’s Main Street every day.    Exclusive Offering includes: The Maple; 2 bedrooms, 2700 sq ft, one car garageThe Oak; 3 bedrooms, 3350 sq ft, 2 car garage

For more information contact Steve Scott at 203-247-4651 or 203-438-4066 or steve.scott@kw.com  

  The builder:      MB Developers is well-known in the luxury home building market. Extensive familiarity with the tri-state area, and a mission of “Building and developing exceptional homes for exceptional people,” have enabled Andy Toth, the company’s president to develop lifelong relationships with customers and business partners.  Experience in the Greenwich area includes building or remodeling substantial and luxurious residences with attention to detailed finish work that creates an incomparable living experience.  In addition to Fairfield County building, Andy and the management team have been involved in the development of Tarrytown New York’s Hudson Harbor a major residential project including luxury condominiums and townhomes along the Hudson River waterfront.

For more information contact Steve Scott at 203-247-4651 or  steve.scott@kw.com