In Appreciation: Ann Ritter Brown

I read of the passing of Ann Ritter Brown with regret.  I worked at the Housatonic Daycare Center (and also later, when it became Housatonic Childcare Center) for twenty years.  Many of those years were with Ann Brown as director.  I remember her as loving her work.  She loved interacting with the children and their parents and the staff.  She was someone you could go to with a problem and she would help you solve it.  She “retired” from the day care once, but willingly came back when another director left and her help was needed.

Many times during the day you could hear her sing out “Laaa Ahhh!” I believe it was her joy in life spilling out into song.

I remember Ann encouraging me as an artist and illustrator.  She took interest in the life of everyone she met.  She would sometimes bring her golden retriever to see the children and her husband, Dale, often stopped in to say hello.  It was a warm and inviting environment.

Thank you Ann Brown. Your love of life was wonderful to see and helped many people.

— Robin Roraback

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Gratitude and goodbyes at Race Brook Lodge
Duo al Rouh (Rabbi Zachi Asher, left, and Zafer Tawil) will explore the crossroads of art and justice, music and spirituality at The Gratitude Festival at Race Brook Lodge in Sheffield.
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With the property up for sale and its future uncertain, programming is winding down at the iconic Race Brook Lodge in Sheffield, Massachusetts. But there are still events on the calendar designed to carry music lovers through the winter and into spring.

From Friday, Nov. 21, to Monday, Nov. 24, Race Brook Lodge will hold its Fall Gratitude Festival. Celebrating the tail end of fall before the colder depths of winter, the festival features an eclectic mix of music from top-notch musicians.

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Holiday craft fairs and DIY workshops: a seasonal preview

Ayni Herb Farm will be one of themany local vendors at Foxtrot’s Farm & Friends Market Nov. 22-23 in Stanfordville.

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As the days grow shorter and the first hints of winter settle in, galleries, studios, barns, village greens and community halls across the region begin their annual transformation into warm, glowing refuges of light and handmade beauty.

This year’s holiday fairs and DIY workshops offer chances not just to shop, but to make—whether you’re mixing cocktails and crafting ornaments, gathering around a wreath-making table, or wandering markets where makers, bakers, artists and craftspeople bring their best of the season. These events are mutually sustaining, fueling both the region’s local economy and the joy of those who call it home.

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From cobwebs to candy canes: is it too soon for holiday cheer?

Holiday decorations bring cheer.

Kerri-Lee Mayland

I just put the skeletons away — literally — into their neatly labeled Halloween plastic bins, along with the faux cobwebs, flickering lanterns and haunted houses that feature tiny tea lights. As I closed the lid, I found myself eyeing — albeit hesitantly — the Christmas décor.

We just voted, and now I’m sprinting toward Christmas? Too soon? Maybe. But before you judge, hear me out.

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Black Crust Bakery pop-up at Center on Main

Black Crust Bakery uses organic, all-natural ingredients to make their bread.

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Come to the Center on Main in Falls Village on Sunday, Nov. 23, from 1 to 4 p.m.,for an afternoon treat of fresh sourdough bread, local spreads, a selection of Harney & Sons tea, and good conversation.

Falls Village’s own Black Crust Bakery is also offering holiday-focused sourdough bread and croissants for all of your Thanksgiving (and snacking) needs.

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