Keith Richards “lost for words” after being recognised with inaugural award in adoptive hometown
The Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards has been awarded the very first Governor’s Award of Excellence in Connecticut.
While Richards is a proud Englishman, he has called the United States his home for several decades and has lived in the small town of Weston, Connecticut. Although it only has 11,000 residents, Richards is among them.
Richards attended a ceremony on March 5th, where Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont presented him with the Governor’s Award of Excellence. The ceremony took place at a library in Westport, which is close to Weston.
According to Lamont, Richards has not only been recognised for his impactful music career but also due to his community work which has enriched those across the Connecticut area.
Lamont said: “Through his generosity and dedication to organizations like SPHERE, which enhances the lives of adults with disabilities, and The Prospector Theater, which provides meaningful employment through the magic of film, Richards has used his influence to uplift and empower others.”
He continued: “Richards has also been an advocate for arts, education, and accessibility initiatives throughout the state, further exemplifying his dedication to making a lasting impact.”
Meanwhile, Richards proudly said of his connection to Connecticut: “I’d like to say thank you to you all and thank you to the state of Connecticut. You kind of get lost for words with something like this around your neck. I’ve been here for 40 years, and it’s been a great place for me. I brought the kids up here.”
The guitarist also explained his decision to move out of New York and why he’s never looked back, adding, “I was interested when the kids were here, and I said I have to get the kids out of New York City so they could get some fresh air to breathe. And ever since, we’ve had a great life. I’m incredibly happy about everything, especially things like this, because you don’t get them every day.”
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