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Got Your Orange Bags? Waste Reduction Challenge Kicking Food Scrap Awareness, Recycling Into High Gear The Public Works Department’s new household waste reduction challenge has officially kicked off, significantly expanding a recycling initiative that has been gaining momentum over the past few years.The Public Works Department’s new household waste reduction challenge has officially kicked off, significantly expanding a recycling initiative that has been gaining momentum over the past few years.Details regarding this stepped-up program have been distributed to all transfer station sticker holders via an informational flier. All sticker holders are encouraged to take part in this pilot program, which challenges Newtown residents to reduce their weekly household waste output to the volume of two standard-sized orange bags.Public Works staff who have been engaged with the local food scrap recycling program since its introduction in 2016 acknowledge this behavior change — rooted in a culture that prefers to toss everything in the trash — “can initially be hard for many households.”Funding for this pilot program is provided by the Sustainable Materials Management Grants Program administered by the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) through the Housatonic Resource Recovery Authority (HRRA).About 4,000 transfer station permit holders will be given 104 specially colored “orange bags” free to use during this 52 week pilot program. The challenge is to get all weekly household garbage into two bags or less.To help, participants will also be given a household food scrap collection kit that includes a six-gallon carry container, countertop collection bin, and rolls of food scrap collection bags. This increased food scrap collection will all stay on-site at the transfer station and be composted at a “new solar-powered” compost facility currently under construction.One Ton Per HouseholdAccording to Transfer Station data, the average sticker-holding Newtown household delivers about 2,000 pounds or one ton of household waste to the transfer station every year. In practice, that amounts to an average waste production rate of around 40 pounds per household, per week.Despite the apparent habit for trashing and dumping household garbage, Public Works staff members assure folks and families who want to change their ways that they will be supported through the reduction challenge.As Public Works Director Fred Hurley explained, waste separation is the key to waste reduction.“Around 20 percent of household waste is glass,” he told The Newtown Bee, “and another 20 percent on average is going to be those food scraps.”Regulatory definitions of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) affirm that observation, implying that only 40 percent of what is generally included in the waste stream is actually not reusable.“You aren’t going to get that down by focusing on only one item,” Hurley admitted. But the data is incontrovertible: most of what is in the waste stream doesn’t have to be there.From an environmental perspective, glass and food scraps are both powerful examples of the potentially disastrous effect of a failure at scale to engage in responsible waste separation.Glass, for one, does not degrade biologically like organic materials, but takes hundreds of thousands of years to weather down into tiny dust-like particles. In this way, unrecycled glass waste, which might otherwise be a substantial resource, remains virtually unchanged for eons in landfills, taking up valuable space.Food scraps, on the other hand, certainly do biodegrade. When buried in a landfill under the balance of the waste stream, however, they do so anaerobically or without oxygen.This airless process of decomposition results in the generation and release of methane — a greenhouse gas understood to be 25 times as potent as carbon dioxide in trapping solar heat within the atmosphere.By removing recyclable and compostable material from the general waste stream through the challenge, residents can make rapid progress on waste reduction while also mitigating serious environmental impacts.Coordinated EffortThis initiative for food scrap separation will coincide with the construction of the new composting facility, which is expected to be complete within two months. The new facility, with its Aerated Static Pile (ASP) architecture, promises to ensure the compost will be sanitary and well-contained while also meeting the demands of all residents.Participants can quickly dispose of their orange bags and food scraps at the lower loop of the redesigned Transfer Station. At the end of the loop will be a separate 40-yard container just for the orange bags.The food scrap deposit will be across from the orange bag container.Hurley told The Bee the new compost facility will be located separately from the food scrap collection center, mitigating participants’ exposure to the smell.According to a letter circulated to permit holders, the program’s environmental benefit is twofold.First, it helps to address the practical problem of an 800,000 ton shortfall of Connecticut capacity to process and dispose of its own household waste. Second, reduced use of resources is its own benefit for future generations because our current rates of consumption are not sustainable.There are also two potential benefits financially to the permit users and taxpayers of Newtown. The permit fee is based on the historical average of one ton of household waste per permit holder annually.The tip fee to process that ton of garbage is approximately $100, which is generally the cost of a permit.By reducing the overall tonnage of household waste that requires a tip fee the town can also consider reducing the permit fees accordingly. A 25-50 percent reduction in tonnage can very easily lead to a 25-50 percent reduction in permit fees.The second financial benefit of this program comes directly from increasing the quantity of compostable food scraps.First, by composting on site the current transportation costs to take food scraps to an off-site compost facility can be eliminated. Second, the increased quantity of high-grade compost would allow the town to make high-grade topsoil available for use by Parks & Recreation or the Public Works Department, currently costing $28 a cubic yard.Compost can also be made available to program participants.Transfer station sticker holders willing to participate should visit either the transfer station at 4 Ethan Allen Road, or the Public Works Garage at 4 Turkey Hill Road. At either location, participants will be able to claim their food scrap collection kits along with their orange household waste bags.Staff and volunteers will be available to address any concerns or questions.=====Reporter Owen Tanzer can be reached at owen@thebee.com.

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Got Your Orange Bags? Waste Reduction Challenge Kicking Food Scrap Awareness, Recycling Into High Gear

The Public Works Department’s new household waste reduction challenge has officially kicked off, significantly expanding a recycling initiative that has been gaining momentum over the past few years.

News

This Is Only A Test: Emergency Notification Will Hit Mobile Devices Wednesday

This Is Only A Test: Emergency Notification Will Hit Mobile Devices Wednesday The Federal Emergency Management Agency is planning a nationwide mobile alert test that will send an emergency SMS to all cell phones in the United States on Wednesday, October 4.On Wednesday, October 4, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) plans a nationwide mobile alert test that will send an emergency SMS to all cell phones in the United States.In coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the national test will be administered at approximately 2:20 pm ET on Wednesday. It will consist of two portions that will test Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System (EAS) capabilities.The WEA portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones.The messaging will be displayed in either English or Spanish, depending on the language settings of the phone. The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions.FEMA and the FCC are coordinating with EAS participants, wireless providers, emergency managers, and others to prepare for this national test to minimize confusion and to maximize the public safety value of the test.“The purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems continue to be an effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level,” the FEMA website reads. “In case the October 4 test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the backup testing date is October 11.”

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Town Receives Grant For Senior Center Patio

Town Receives Grant For Senior Center Patio Though removed from the original plans when the community center was built years ago, the Town has gotten another chance at building an outdoor patio area for the senior center as it has received grant money. Though removed from the original plans when the community center was built years ago, the Town has gotten another chance at building an outdoor patio area for the senior center as it has received grant money.The Board of Selectmen and Legislative Council at September meetings approved a $60,674 grant from the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability. The grant originated from the American Rescue Plan; the state was given $10 million for senior centers statewide and $9 million of that to go to municipal senior centers.This money is separate from the $7.5 million in ARP funds the Town of Newtown received directly, according to Senior Center Coordinator Natalie Jackson.The money allotted to each senior center through the State Department of Aging and Disability was $5,000 for each, with additional funding determined by census data and town demographics.First Selectman Dan Rosenthal said at the council meeting that the outdoor area was in the original design of the Community Center, but had to be removed to keep the project within budget.The Department of Aging and Disability asked the local senior centers to make sure the funding was used for combatting the effects of the pandemic on the population.“We tossed around a lot of ideas on how to use it,” said Jackson.Jackson noted that the Senior Center was closed during the pandemic, and the focus was on using the building for vaccinations. Following the pandemic, the Senior Center was looking for ways to offer outdoor programming, including parking lot events. They also did outdoor classes and social groups.“Folks enjoyed the added level of security from being outdoors,” said Jackson.The outdoor area will include a paver patio, an awning, and some immovable tables provided there is enough money. Additional tables and chairs will be able to be brought outside as events require.“We’re dreaming big,” said Jackson. “This is a great way to bring an outdoor area back into the footprint of the senior center.The outdoor area will be used for programming, outdoor dining for people to bring lunches and sit and eat, as well as informal socialization, Jackson said.“So far the feedback from people has been really positive — they’re excited at the prospect of expanded usage of space outside,” said Jackson.The project is still in the initial planning and there is no current time line for completion.=====Associate Editor Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.

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Comedians Aren’t ‘Just Joking’ In Chilling New PSA By Sandy Hook Promise

Comedians Aren’t ‘Just Joking’ In Chilling New PSA By Sandy Hook Promise Sandy Hook Promise this week launched “Just Joking,” its latest public service announcement to underscore how important it is to take threats of gun violence seriously. As the US surpasses 240 school shootings in 2023, setting the stage for a record-breaking year of gun violence in schools, Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) this week launched “Just Joking,” its latest public service announcement (PSA) to underscore how important it is to take threats of gun violence seriously.Sandy Hook Promise uses the Gun Violence Archive of school shootings, where four or more people are killed or injured, not including the shooter.The PSA features a lineup of renowned comedians — including Billy Eichner, Wanda Sykes, Margaret Cho, Jay Pharoah, Roy Wood Jr, Caitlin Reilly, David Cross, Iliza Shlesinger and Rachel Bloom — who lend their wit to deliver a sobering message: Threats are not jokes. If you see a warning sign of violence, always say something.In the PSA, released September 28, audience members assume that comedians are performing regular stand-up routines and “Just Joking.” It is later revealed that what the audience thought were punch lines were actually all real threats made by school shooters across the country — including the shooter at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, who said “I’m going to shoot up an elementary school right now,” and the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooter in Parkland, Fla., who said, “I want to kill people,” and several more across the country.The chilling realization that the comedians were not “Just Joking” wakes viewers up to the importance of taking all threats seriously and taking action when there are warning signs of violence.Since its inception in the wake of 12/14, Sandy Hook Promise has been at the forefront of developing a comprehensive, upstream approach to prevent gun violence, focusing on community-based education and empowerment.SHP’s innovative Know the Signs programs effectively teach youth and adults how to prevent school violence, shootings, and other harmful acts. Programming has been implemented in over 26,000 schools across the country, providing students and adults with the tools necessary to identify and report concerning behaviors. Through the new PSA, Sandy Hook Promise plans to reach an even wider audience with the lifesaving “know the signs” message.Nicole Hockley, co-founder and CEO of Sandy Hook Promise, and mother of Dylan, who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings, says that as this country is on track to have its deadliest year yet, the urgency to protect children from gun violence is stronger than ever.“Even if it seems small — or like a joke — recognizing and reporting a potential threat of violence can have massive, life-saving impact,” Hockley said. “We can all do more to learn about the warning signs of violence and take action immediately when we see them.”Sandy Hook Promise partnered with BBDO New York to produce the video, as with its previous PSAs, including the Emmy Award-winning “Teenage Dream” and “Back-to-School Essentials,” as well as the Emmy-nominated “Point of View,” and multiple award-winning “Evan.”SHP also partnered again with SMUGGLER, a commercial, documentary, film and theater production company and with award-winning director Henry-Alex Rubin. To date, SHP’s PSAs have won a combined 22 prestigious Cannes Lion awards and over 300 other industry awards.Comedian and actress Iliza Shlesinger, who is featured in the new PSA, said gun violence has become “this accepted plague on our American communities.” Shlesinger wanted to do something “visible and positive,” she added.“Since participating in [the PSA] I have become more active in gun violence prevention — it can be as little as being vocal about it, calling your lawmakers or just voting. But we can’t allow this to become ‘just the way it is,’” she added. “And the fact that parents of the victims of Sandy Hook produced this, in all of their pain and suffering, means other people can do something proactive as well.”To date, 21 million people nationwide have participated in Sandy Hook Promise’s lifesaving Know the Signs programs that focus on violence prevention by teaching youth and adults how to recognize warning signs of potential violence and get help. As a result, the organization says, SHP has averted at least 15 credible planned school shooting attacks, prevented 185 attempts of violence with a weapon, and saved more than 500 lives through crisis intervention. The Know the Signs programs are available to every school and youth organization at no cost.To watch the “Just Joking” PSA and learn more about Sandy Hook Promise’s mission and programs, visit sandyhookpromise.org/psa.

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Newtown’s Legacy Land Trust Seeks To Protect Historic Open Space

Newtown’s Legacy Land Trust Seeks To Protect Historic Open Space Newtown Forest Association is spearheading an ambitious initiative to acquire over 60 acres of pristine land at Deep Brook Farm.The Newtown Forest Association (NFA), the oldest private land trust in the state of Connecticut, is spearheading an ambitious initiative to acquire over 60 acres of pristine land at Deep Brook Farm according to NFA Director Trent McCann.The property, separated into two continuous parcels at 32 and 21 Deep Brook Road, would directly connect to the already existing municipal Dickinson Park, creating a vast open corridor for both hikers and ecologically sensitive wildlife alike.Currently under the ownership of the late Dr Thomas Draper’s estate, the farmstead has been the focus of continuous cultivation since the mid-19th Century, McCann said. Today, however, Deep Brook Farm represents an opportunity before Newtown’s populace to preserve forever a piece of their own heritage.As detailed in a recent mailing to NFA supporters, while not many such tracts of undeveloped farmland persist from the time of Newtown’s agricultural origins, NFA’s acquisition of the Deep Brook property would forever safeguard it and the trails that span it from the possibility of development.McCann describes Deep Brook Farm as an immaculate green belt composed largely of open fields owing their existence to decades of agricultural practice.“There are also forested and wetland areas on the property as well,” he told The Newtown Bee, explaining how protecting the area could have significant ecological benefits.These ecosystems not only provide safe havens for the native biodiversity of the local environment, but also serve as natural water filters that prevent pollutants from reaching water resources and reduce the overall risk of flooding. By acting to conserve these sensitive ecological areas, McCann noted that Newtown’s citizens can promote the health of both the immediate environment we live in and the integrity of the basic resources we rely on to live.According to McCann, however, flora and fauna are not all the landscape has to offer.“The property has dirt roads on two sides which are adjacent to the Borough,” he related. “One of our fears with regard to potential development of the property is that these dirt roads will be paved over.”These quaint dirt roads, with their proximity to the historical heart of Newtown, intrinsically capture the semi-rural charm that so many residents enjoy and are often frequented by bikers or dog-walkers, he explained. The Forest Association believes that by protecting the land from development, any incentive to pave over the roads will be effectively eliminated.While there are no immediately imminent plans for development on this property, NFA underscores the need for proactive conservation.“We just want to get ahead of the potential of that and purchase the property to ensure it’s protected forever,” McCann said.Steve Maguire, deputy director at Newtown’s Land Use Agency, echoed McCann’s hopes and concerns. He said by connecting Deep Brook with the already existing Dickinson Park, NFA’s proposal would create an extended corridor of open space that could serve as a buffer for wetlands and watercourses.“Environmentally, preserving these wetland corridors and areas of sensitivity would be beneficial,” Maguire concluded.Maguire made it clear that the Land Use Agency also values the more intangible and cultural benefits that open space preservation brings.He pointed out that “there aren’t many of these larger farm tracts left in town, which are a snapshot of what older Newtown used to be. So I think it’s valuable to keep some of these tracts and preserve them if they’re of some value.”In this sense, the Newtown Forest Association — celebrating its centennial this month — is acting with the Town Agency’s blessing to extend and supplement conservation efforts that the town itself already undertakes.NFA has secured pledges amounting to $600,000, but it is still striving to gather funds for the acquisition project. Complete acquisition of both parcels of the Deep Brook Farm property would run the nonprofit land trust a grand total of $1.8 million.Those willing to contribute should visit their official website (newtownforestassociation.org). Donations are also accepted via mail-in checks and should be made out to Newtown Forest Association at PO Box 213, Newtown CT 06470.Individuals wishing to make a restricted pledge which will be refunded in the event of an unsuccessful acquisition should contact Executive Director McCann directly by email (trent.mccann@newtownforestassociation.org).=====Reporter Owen Tanzer can be reached at owen@thebee.com.

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The Way We Were Newtown news of 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125 years ago, from the archives of The Newtown Bee. October 2, 1998HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER OF John Stott.* * * * *Police said Wednesday they have apprehended the Riverside man they believe is the “nocturnal intruder” who made a series of illegal house entries during the summer of 1997 in that neighborhood along the Housatonic River. Police served an arrest warrant against a 28-year-old Alpine Drive resident, listing two counts of second-degree burglary and three counts of fourth-degree sexual assault. The male was held on a $50,000 bond for a Wednesday arraignment in Danbury Superior Court. The arrest follows a year-long investigation into the illegal house entries conducted by town police, state police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.* * * * *BRIDGE CLAIMS ANOTHER ONE: A 40-year-old male tractor-trailer truck driver from Amsterdam, N.Y., was driving a truck westbound on Church Hill Road about 12:45 pm September 28 when the truck’s trailer, which is 13 feet, 6 inches tall, smashed into the Housatonic Railroad overpass, which has a 12 foot, 7 inch clearance, police said. Police issued the driver an infraction ticket for failure to obey state traffic commission clearance warning signs.* * * * *If the Newtown High boys’ soccer team was due for a letdown, it came at a perfect time Monday. The Nighthawks, hosting a hapless Stratford team at Treadwell Park, struggled tremendously in the early going. At halftime, they found themselves trailing, 2-0. It was hard to tell which team was more shocked by the score. Stratford seemed surprised just to have scored. Fortunately for the locals, there were 40 minutes left to play and the Nighthawks erupted for four unanswered goals, in the second, pulling out a 4-2 win.* * * * *District Commissioner Dick Hubert presented Cub Scout Pack 70 of Newtown with the Unit of the Year Award at the pack’s September 22 meeting at Hawley School. The award cites the pack for its leadership and scout development. It is the district’s highest honor and had previously been awarded only to Boy Scout Troops.September 28, 1973This past summer Catherine Pierson, a student at Newtown High School, spent her vacation time in Chile as an AFS student. While in the country Cathy stayed with Mr and Mrs Emilio Leiva and their two daughters, Gladys and Monica. The Leivas have another daughter who attends college in Minnesota and a son who lives in Valparaiso. Although the family does not live in Santiago, Cathy spent one day there on arrival and two nights on her return home, and she left just in time — August 31, shortly before the military junta which overthrew the Communist government in power.* * * * *Some 200 friends, relatives, fellow Democrats and dignitaries turned out on Saturday night, September 22, at Newtown High School for a testimonial dinner in honor of Diana Schwerdtle, former member of the Board of Selectmen. Sen Abraham Ribicoff, the dinner’s guest speaker, sounded the keynote for the affair, saying that “Diana brought to government what it needs: perception, intelligence, and courage.”* * * * *The newly-formed Route 25 impact study committee and Newtown’s Planning and Zoning Commission will maintain a liaison to make sure the plans and work of the two bodies don’t overlap. The decision to keep close tabs on each other’s activities came at the P&Z meeting Friday, September 21, when Joseph Turnauer and Harvey Hubbell 4th, temporary chairman and vice chairman of the committee, met with Commission members.* * * * *At the Board of Education meeting Tuesday, September 25, Superintendent of Schools Albert Brinkman announced the school buses have been rescheduled and are now traveling their new routes with new schedules. The last of the buses to be rerouted were the ones carrying the high school students, and those schedules went into effect on Thursday, September 27. According to Dr Brinkman, the routes are similar but not exactly the same as they were last year. However, many more students are now walking either short distances to their bus stops, are boarding and leaving the buses at safer spots, or not walking at all.* * * * *It’s not exactly clear how, but somehow George McLachlan, of the McLaclan Agency, 6 Queen Street, finds time to be a realtor, coach Pop Warner, take pictures of the high school football games every week, and serve as Chairman of the Board of Police Commissioners. This week’s Realtor of the Week, Mr McLachlan is also treasurer of the Newtown Board of Realtors.September 24, 1948The Newtown Ambulance Association, Inc, held its seventh annual meeting in the Alexandria Room of Edmond Town Hall on Tuesday evening and it was the largest attended meeting to be held to date. Frank H. Strasburger, president, was chairman of the session. … To date a total of 454 members have contributed $1,174 in the current drive. … John Sedor, chief of the volunteer drivers, read a brief report stating that in the year just ended, a total of 134 calls had been made, 105 of them being resident calls and 29 non-resident.* * * * *Friends will be pleased to know that Nick DiSesa was able to return home on Monday where he is recuperating from a recent serious operation performed at the Presbyterian Hospital in New York City and a subsequent stay at the Mary Harkness Convalescent Home in Port Chester, N.Y.* * * * *Joseph H.A. Symonds, prosecuting attorney of the Town court, returned to his home on Riverside road, Sandy Hook, Sunday, from St Vincent’s hospital, Bridgeport, where he underwent an operation on his right eye.* * * * *The opening meeting of the Newtown Mother’s Club was held Monday evening, September 20, in the Trinity church room. In the absence of the program chairman, Mrs Jane Daniels, Mrs Dorothy Strasberger took charge of the get-together party. Games were played and refreshments served at the close of the meeting. The hostesses for the meeting were Mrs Charlotte Yates, Chairman, Mrs Shirley Murray, Mrs Elizabeth Hayden and Mrs Helen Ferris.* * * * *Announcements were received at The Bee office this week from Stafa, Switzerland, bringing news of the engagement of Miss Marianne Schweizer and Ulrich Gut. Mr Gut spent last summer in Newtown, living at the Parker House and working at The Bee office in order to become familiar with newspaper methods in this country. He is now associated in his father’s publishing business in Switzerland. His many Newtown friends will be pleased to learn of his engagement and extend best wishes to him and to the future Mrs Gut.September 14, 1923(Issue not available.)September 30, 1898Bigger and better than ever! These are exactly the words to express the Newtown fair for 1898. The management promised this, if good weather could be had, and they were able to keep their promise. The weather was even better than could have been planned, three days of fine fall weather, just suitable for fair holding … the officers and directors have worked like beavers to make the Newtown fair second to none in the state, with possibly one exception, and they have succeeded. The largest showing of cattle and stock, so far held in the state, large and exceptionally fine exhibits in all the industrial classes, fine trotting, good attractions in front of the grand stand, all this means work, but it has been accomplished and with all its predecessors the fair of 1898 stands as a record breaker, the second fair in the state of Connecticut, when only in its third year, and the untiring efforts of the management deserve the praise and honor … Look at the attendance if you please, 1500 on Tuesday, 4000 on Wednesday, 3000 on Thursday, a grand total of 8,500.* * * * *A fine barn, instead of a haystack, as was announced in last week’s BEE, owned by James Carley of Walnut Tree Hill and filled with good hay, was destroyed by fire on Tuesday of last week. The cause still remains a mystery, but it was thought to be the work of school children. The loss was between $300 and $400, and no insurance.* * * * *L.B. Gray has a horse that went to the fair this year, that is worthy of mention. The horse did not win a race, but he broke all previous records, as he has attended every fair since the organization of the Union Agricultural society and this year marked the society’s 27th birthday. The horse is 32 years old and hale and hearty yet, fully equal to his three good square meals a day.* * * * *The threatening weather of last Friday evening prevented a large attendance at the Christian Endeavor fellowship meeting at the Congregational church, but those who were present were repaid by the earnest and inspiring addresses given. The praise meeting was conducted by Rev N.B. Prindle of White Hills, whose inspiring leadership gave interest to the meeting. Rev O.W. Barker presided and introduced those who took part. Henry M. Smith of Newtown read the Scripture lesson of the evening, after which M.R. Castle of Monroe led in prayer. A duet was sung by Mr and Mrs Arthur J. Smith. Rev W.E. Page of Milton gave an address, touching upon the characteristics of the Christian Endeavor convention at Nashville. The main address of the evening was by Judge Munger of Ansonia, who spoke eloquently and awakened the interest and sympathies of the audience.Do you have photographs of people or places in town from a bygone era? The Way We Were is the perfect landing spot so that your photographs can be enjoyed by Newtown Bee readers. Images can be e-mailed as attachments to shannon@thebee.com, subject line: Way We Were photo. When submitting photographs, please identify as many people as possible, the location, and the approximate date. If you live locally and would like to loan a photo/photos, please give us a call (203-426-3141) to let us know when you will be visiting.

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The Way We Were

Newtown news of 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125 years ago, from the archives of The Newtown Bee.

Features

Top Of The Mountain

Top Of The Mountain Newtown news and notes, as told from the point of view of a cat named Mountain. Lori Zemo visited the Bee office a few times last week and I was absolutely thrilled to see her. Lori was our longtime receptionist and front office administrator for years, preceding Sandy Tannone, and was visiting the area while traveling with family and getting ready to attend her Newtown High School class reunion. It was amusing to watch her walk around the building, noting what has changed and what has managed to stay the same since her departure 25-plus years ago. We invited her to sit at her former desk and answer the phone during part of her visit, but she politely declined. Of course, when one of the grandchildren of Co-Publisher Sherri Smith Baggett arrived in the front office, Lori had no trouble giving that little one some attention. (Of course, most of us within this office have the same thing happen when any of the grandchildren stop in for visits.)On Friday we had a double dose of former employees visit. Lori returned for another chat, this time with former Circulation Assistant Penny Lombardo by her side! What a great surprise it was to see Penny, who used to keep our current Circulation-Production Director, Scott Baggett, in check. Lori stopped in again this past Tuesday, checking in after attending her NHS Class of 1983 Reunion over the weekend. We said farewell to our friend, but not before making her promise to visit again, this time without waiting another few decades.What a tough break for organizers of Newtown Arts Festival, who had to make the very tough choice last Friday morning to cancel last weekend’s outdoor arts festival events. It would have been a very disappointing festival for vendors and attendees alike if it had been presented. There was too much rain, and continued threats of rain between the few breaks of precipitation. Fortunately for some, two events went on as planned and our freelance photographer was there. As noted on page A-1 of our print edition this week, Bill Glass was at Friday night’s concert by Red Matter, still presented under the tent at Fairfield Hills. He was then at Edmond Town Hall the following evening, when Flagpole Radio Cafe returned to the stage there, this time with special guest Loudon Wainwright. Pick up a copy of this week's paper to see those photo spreads. Not that it should make them feel a lot better, but the arts festival committee members were not the only ones challenged with weather woes this week. At least two local groups had to change their plans when the rain continued on Monday. Christ the King Lutheran Church and Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company both had fundraising golf tournaments planned for September 25. Fortunately for both organizations, while Monday was not the day to be playing golf, it was still a good day for raffles and food. I understand coordinators of both events went on with those facets of each event. Supporters of each stuck around for the adapted plans, and many people reportedly ended up enjoying themselves even without the golf.Shannon Hicks does a lot of camping, and had the bittersweet moment recently of enjoying the final outing of her 2023 season. Great weather, new friends, plenty of Bingo … it was a good summer, I hear. Ahead of storing her camper for the season, our Managing Editor does what many other people do, and that’s pull out all the linens, food and other items that aren’t going to be kept in the camper through the winter. Among the items that came out of the camper were this year’s summer reads. They were put into a Little Free Library near the campground Shannon regularly visits. As she was heading home after that donation it occurred to her that there are few libraries like that right in her hometown. Until recently there were at least four: one at Dickinson Park, Elm Drive, between the playground and swing sets; one along the western side of Newtown Congregational Church, at 14 West Street; another between the pool building and pavilion at Treadwell Park, on Philo Curtis Road; and one at the Union Savings Bank branch at 1-A Commerce Road.The newest we’re aware of just opened at FAITH Food Pantry (FFP), in fact. FFP volunteer Andy Engels built the beautiful addition outside the pantry building at 46 Church Hill Road, and even had the honor of placing the first book on its shelves. The book? A copy of The Hunger Games, written by Connecticut native Suzanne Collins. It was borrowed immediately, and the library has been in use since that morning. FFP volunteers welcome anyone who would like to add books to the library (books only, please and thank you, they say), or borrow a title or two. The library is positioned on the western corner of the building, between the parking lot and main entrance. Shannon has already promised to keep in mind her hometown Little Free Libraries — or Friends of C.H. Booth Library, who also accept donations of books, and other items, year round — when it’s time to do the 2024 camper clean out.FAITH Food Pantry observed a milestone last weekend, which was both encouraging and troubling. On the positive side, volunteers have been organizing the collection, sorting and distribution of food and household items to residents of town for four decades. Through multiple locations and without ever ceasing operations, Food Assistance Immediate Temporary Help — that’s what the acronym for the nondenominational pantry stands for — has been able to put food on the table, pet food in the dish, cleaning supplies in the cabinets, and even some personal hygiene items in the closet for those who need them. The negative side of all that is the fact that we have had folks within our community who have had those needs for 40 years and counting. Both points were recognized during a gathering of volunteers and supporters last Saturday afternoon; story and photos are coming next week.Newtown Lions Club will be hosting a special event this Saturday that’s meant to help Fairfield County area food pantries including Daily Bread in Danbury, Bridgeport Rescue Mission in Bridgeport, Hospitality House, and FAITH Food Pantry in Newtown. The local Lions are working with Big Y World Class Market on Queen Street and US Army 411th Civil Affairs Battalion for a Stuff-A-Truck event. Readers are invited to visit the market at 6 Queen Street, between 9 am and 5 pm, and drop off items (lists of suggested items will be available) or shop for prepackaged bags that will go right into the collection for distribution.Further ahead, we understand the 21st Annual Fill The Fire Truck Food Drive is planned for Saturday, November 18, in front of Big Y and Stop & Shop.On Sunday, Newtown Rotary is hoping to have a successful launch for its newest event. Current Rotary Club President Vern Chong reached out this week with a reminder that the club’s inaugural Cornhole Tournament is scheduled for October 1 from 1 to 5 pm. Cost is $50 per two-person team, and check-in opens at noon. Registration is preferred and available through newtownctrotary.org. Play will then be underway from 1 until 5 pm, with Visa gift cards for the top three teams. Not a player? No problem! Vern’s reminder included a note that there will be raffles, food trucks, and craft beer services on-site as well, and those are all open to everyone regardless of whether they’re competing or just want to cheer for their favorite team. Reservations are not needed for spectators. Visit the website above for final details, or just head toward Fairfield Hills on Sunday.Do you ever get hungry for something different, but just don’t know where to start or what to make? Adventurous foodies can consider one of the recipes translated off a clay page from a Mesopotamian cookbook dating from 1700 BCE that will be on display when the Yale Peabody Museum reopens next year. The Hartford Courant had a good story this week about the ongoing renovations at the New Haven museum of natural history, and the talk about 3,700-year-old recipes tickled my whiskers. I wonder if any of the tablets include anything about mice. I’ll need a really clever human to help me in the kitchen if we’re going to try the recipes. One collection is apparently all about stews, but it’s written in Akkadian, which The Courant describes as a Semitic language related to Hebrew, Arabic and Aramaic. I’m a smart kitty, but I still have my limits.I hope you won’t limit yourself too much this upcoming week. Have as much fun as possible, maybe try something new and exciting. Just don’t forget to come back to … read me again.

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Features

Pandemic Over But Changes Live On Through ‘60 Second Marriage Tips’

Pandemic Over But Changes Live On Through ‘60 Second Marriage Tips’ While Kenneth L. Schaefer may not be using gloves when he goes shopping these days, there is one area of this Newtown resident's life that COVID permanently changed for him: the opportunity to offer free marriage enrichment education. From wearing masks to standing six feet apart to incessantly using hand sanitizer, the pandemic impacted the world in various ways. While Kenneth L. Schaefer may not be using gloves when he goes shopping these days, there is one area of his life that COVID permanently changed for him: the opportunity to offer free marriage enrichment education.Pre-pandemic, Schaefer and his wife Stephanie were marriage enrichment workshop facilitators. They taught an 18-hour program over nine weeks, using a published curriculum that required a specific workbooks fee for the attendees. But the cost of the course as well as needing a location to host the classes was quite limiting, according to Schaefer.When the pandemic arrived and the ability to conduct in-person classes temporarily disappeared, the Newtown resident had an epiphany.“The pandemic opened my eyes,” he told The Newtown Bee. Three years ago he adapted, and began offering free marriage education for anyone who wants it through an online video series called “60 Second Marriage Tips.”There is a difference, he says, between marriage education and marriage counseling.“Marriage counseling wants to know what the ideology of your problem is, where it started, where it came from,” he explained.“In marriage education — what I do — we don’t care” about the cause of the problem. “We just want to fix it,” he said.Further, while marriage counselors are licensed, marriage educators are not.“We go through programs to become certified in what we teach, but we don’t have to have a license,” he said.In recent years, Schaefer has returned to his graduate studies and theology, building upon a career he had before moving to Connecticut a few years ago.“Instead of using a specific curriculum, I now pull from my professional experience of working eight years full-time in marriage enrichment education as well as my graduate studies at seminary, in addition to my own personal experience of 47 years of marriage,” Schaefer said. “Rather than teaching only a classroom of people, now anyone who has access to YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter can get my marriage program for free.”Schaefer’s reels are called “60 Second Marriage Tips.” As the title suggests, ways to enhance a relationship are discussed in a minute or less.The program is easy to remember, he said, because it is structured from top-to-bottom like the human body. Biblical support is found in many of his pointers.Schaefer encourages people to use their eyes by looking for the needs of their spouse, and putting those needs before their own (based on Philippians 2:3-4). That point, he said in a video posted April 26, is his “most important marriage tip.”While two verses referenced above are key, he added, Schaefer also encourages viewers to read the full chapter, which covers Christ giving up everything for others.“That applies to us and all of our relationships, and it certainly applies to our relationships with our spouse,” he adds. For a husband, this tip means taking on a chore for their wife, or watching the children for a time, Schaefer said. For a wife, “it may mean give your husband some down time before you talk to him. It may mean you let him go out with the boys,” he suggests.Biblical-based tips also include listening more than speaking, listening intently to what they are saying, imagining how they are feeling, and hearing what they say empathetically (James 1:19).Sometimes, says Schaefer, things just don’t smell right. Based on John 14:26, that’s when he encourages people to “use your intuition, conscience, or the Holy Spirit to guide you in your words and behavior.”Speak kindly and tenderly, remembering words can be harmful and cannot be taken back (James 3:5-6, 10). Show love to your spouse by being loving, respectful, tenderhearted, and compassionate (Ephesians 4:32, 5:33). Remember that touch and intimacy is “so very important,” he said, to keep a relationship strong.“Don’t let things get in the way of your special time together,” he said, offering guidance from 1 Corinthians 7:3-5.Schaefer’s interest in counseling, which focused later on marriage enrichment, started with his high school psychology class. He later earned a BA in psychology at University of Redlands, became a business manager/owner for 40 years, offered lay/peer counselor training, served as a lay counselor, and attended Talbot School of Theology at Biola University.He did not finish his master’s degree due to being hired by Healthy Relationships California in 2009, when he began working as a quality assurance specialist. He was then promoted to quality assurance manager, grant compliance manager, central processing manager, and human resources coordinator, holding those positions concurrently.Schaefer was introduced to marriage education, served as a pastoral counselor intern, and formed the nonprofit marriage ministry Married 4 Keeps in September 2006. He received four federal grants/subawards that went to the California Healthy Marriage Coalition (since renamed Healthy Relationships California) for marriage enrichment.Schaefer also received a $50,000 grant, in 2007, from the Department of Health & Human Services, which was also used toward the presentation of the marriage education classes.With Married 4 Keeps, he began training pastors, their wives, and a psychologist in Foccus Marriage Ministries. He also prepared couples for their marriage.Schaefer feels very confident when offering marriage education. He and Stephanie will celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary in January.‘Insightful And Informative’Based on anonymous evaluation forms shared with this newspaper, the workshops were very well received. Of 21 responses following the presentation of “Marriage Oneness” in July-August 2017 at Black Rock Congregational Church in Fairfield, every person said their marriage was the same or improved following the workshop.One, in fact, said that on a scale of one to ten, their relationship went from a three at the onset of the workshop to a ten.When offered again the following summer, one student said the series “honed in on certain truths and brought to us an awareness of our roles and responsibilities and helped us to communicate better.”Another student said “Marriage Oneness” was “very insightful and informative,” while someone else said the work by the Schaefers “brought us closer together and [has] given [us] new tools for our marriage.”Feedback for “Couple Talk 1,” offered by the Schaefers in February-March 2019, was equally affirming. One student said the course “made us realize what we were doing that was working and what wasn’t and how to make it better.”In a follow-up question asking whether attendees would want to continue with the Schaefers and take “Part 2 Cracking the Code to Handling Conflict,” one student said they did because they want to continue growing closer to their spouse.“This is a good program to do that,” they wrote.Schaefer also worked full-time to evaluate marriage education classes. While many of the classes were conducted in churches, they were secular in nature, he said.“We couldn’t mention the Bible,” he said. “We couldn’t mix the two. When I was working for Health Relationships California it was part of my job to go to the classes, and make sure they abide by the rules — no mention of the Bible, or Christianity.”Continuing EducationHe and Stephanie moved to Connecticut about seven years ago, and the educational offerings continued. She has since retired from being an educator, he said.Schaefer taught the 18-hour marriage workshops until he transitioned again due to COVID. In addition to the offerings in Bridgeport, he led “The Not-So-Newlywed Game,” which also focused on strengthening marriages, at Christ the Redeemer Church in Southbury.He had additional events planned, “many things that were planned and promoted,” he said, “and all that stuff got canceled with the pandemic, when we stopped so many things.”That was when his ongoing “60 Second Marriage Tips” series was launched.With the new setting and no restrictions on presentation, Schaefer has been able to pull on his theological training to supplement much of what he offered in the classrooms he has done for decades.Just last week, Schaefer posted his latest video, offering a brief introduction to his background, on YouTube. That video can be found at bit.ly/60SecondMarriageTips.The current project continues the educational series Schaefer was doing until early 2020. He is not, he clarified during a recent visit, making any money through the videos.In fact, the marriage tips aren’t the only things visitors will find when they visit his Facebook and YouTube pages. A video from a recent cruise along the Hudson River was shared on his Facebook page, tucked amid a recent “60 Second Marriage Tips” video and a photo of his daughter surprising him ahead of his birthday.“There’s lots of things in life that are very interesting,” he explained.“60 Second Marriage Tips” are his focus, however.“These videos are my passion project,” he said. “No pun intended.”Ken Schaefer’s videos offering tips to relationships in a positive way are available on YouTube (search for @60SecondDevotions and select Marriage Tips Playlist).On Facebook, search for Ken.L.Schaefer to find his public posts, including the 60 Second Reels focused on marriage.=====Managing Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.

Kenneth Schaefer's 60 Second Marriage Devotionals Shannon Hicks Story Pandemic Over But Changes Live On Through ‘60 Second Marriage Tips’ Kenneth Schaefer's 60 Second Marriage Devotionals Featured Slider, Features, Religion None

Features

Snapshot: Alyssa Mancini

Snapshot: Alyssa Mancini Herbs Love & Yoga Owner Alyssa Mancini was recently featured as a Snapshot community member in the September 15, 2023, print edition of the paper. How would you describe your occupation? I am the owner of Herbs Love & Yoga. All of the herbal medicine is manufactured in-house. It’s sustainably and mindfully made. I am a master herbalist so I come up with all the formulations. I also teach all of the yoga classes and herbal workshops. A big part of what I’ve been doing lately has been reaching out for collaborations with other small businesses. Before I opened the shop, for the last 15 years, I was a high school biology and chemistry teacher. I’m still using my skills and knowledge I acquired, just in a whole new way.Who is in your family? My mom is 85. She was born and raised in Italy. My dad is 92. I also have a brother and a sister. They are much older than me because my mother had me when she was 48. I was a bit of a surprise.Do you have any pets? During COVID, I fostered a cat who I just fell in love with. His name was Jules. We spent all of COVID together, but he got adopted by this lovely woman. I cried for like, two months straight after that. Hopefully, I’ll find another cat in the future.How long have you worked in Newtown? I moved to Danbury three years ago from Brooklyn. We just opened at the end of June, so we’re fairly new to the community.What do you like to do in your free time? I love to go hiking. I’ve been spending a lot of time on my paddleboard or swimming — I’m a water baby. I love the water. I love to read, and my true passion is traveling. I love exploring new places.What is your favorite book? I love Eat, Pray, Love, Where The Crawdads Sing, and A Discovery of Witches. I remember the books based on where in the world I read them. I remember reading Eat, Pray, Love when I was in Italy, and Where The Crawdads Sing when I was in Bali. The characters become your friends when you’re traveling and away from home. I love the book as much as its association with where I am in the world reading it.Are you part of any organizations in town? I just joined [Sandy Hook Organization for Prosperity] which has been really great — getting to know all the other small business owners in town.Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life? The plants, of course. They have a lot to teach you if you’re willing to listen.If you could spend the day with one person, who would you choose and why? Mary Magdalene, because she’s such a mystical mama. I would just love to get to know her in her goddess ways.What is something you can’t live without? My independence. If I don’t have my autonomy, I wither.What is your proudest accomplishment? In 2010, I ran the Hamptons Marathon. That was a big one for me, because I’m not a runner naturally. I did it for Team In Training, an organization that raises money for leukemia. Each week, you would do two short runs, less than 20 minutes, and then you would do one long run, which would continually creep up in mileage. The body really adapted, and I was able to do it. I ran the whole time.What is your favorite travel destination? Some of my favorites have been Bali, Thailand, and the Amalfi Coast.What is the best part of Newtown? The community and all of the locally-owned small businesses. I’ve been enjoying eating and drinking my way through Newtown so much. And, just meeting with all of the small-business owners and doing collabs. Everybody has been so nice, so chill, so welcoming. I really love it here; I’m so glad my shop is here.What would you like The Newtown Bee to cover in the future? Free community events — spotlighting cool and fun things in the community that are accessible, free, and bring people together.

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Features

Theater Review: Modern Yet Still Faithful ‘Pride & Prejudice’ Adaptation An Enjoyable Show By The Sherman Players

Theater Review: Modern Yet Still Faithful ‘Pride & Prejudice’ Adaptation An Enjoyable Show By The Sherman Players Playwright Kate Hamill’s comedic modern, yet faithful, stage adaptation of the Jane Austen novel is currently being presented by The Sherman Players.SHERMAN — Jane Austen’s 1813 novel Pride & Prejudice has seen just about every adaptation that a story can have. Television, movies, musicals and even a reimagining during a Zombie apocalypse (yes, that exists).Playwright Kate Hamill’s comedic modern, yet faithful, stage adaptation of the Austen novel is currently being presented by The Sherman Players.Austen’s story remains relatively intact. Pride centers on Elizabeth (Lizzy) Bennet (played by Maya Daley) and the social pressures she faces to marry for money and wealth as opposed to love.Lizzy doesn’t want to give in to social pressures, however, and attempts to forge her own path in life. She eventually learns the repercussions of hasty judgments and the difference between real and superficial goodness.Even though you’ve had 210 years to read the novel, the ending will not be spoiled here.Hamill’s adaptation is written to be a fast-paced farce featuring quick changes, cast members playing multiple roles and over-the-top humor. The script requires taking Austen’s characters to the edge of absurdity in a controlled chaos.While Director Michael J. Frohnhoefer has assembled a top notch cast of talent for this production, at times the slower pacing and stagnant staging seems to hinder much of Hamill’s witty rapid-fire script. This is an extremely ambitious show to take on, one which requires a delicate balance of genre reverence and modern silliness and I commend Frohnhoefer for taking on this challenge.The show does have a handful of very funny moments, mostly thanks to actor Michael Schaner, who plays not only Mr Bingley, Lizzy’s sister Jane’s (Tarah Margaret Vega) betrothed, but also weird and off-putting Bennet sister, Mary. Every time he appears on stage the scenes light up with laughs. Whether he is coughing up a lung as Mary or darting around the stage as the eager puppy-like Mr Bingley, Schaner knows how to squeeze every laugh out of a line.Maya Daley is a delight as Lizzy. She plays a very grounded and earnest Lizzy, within the social chaos around her.Patrick Kelly, as Mr Darcy, also brings humanity and a steadfastness to his portrayal of the iconic character.Steve Stott and Alexa Wild portray Lizzy’s parents (the aptly named Mr & Mrs Bennet). Stott brings life to the stodgy and set-in-his-ways Mr Bennet. It is especially amusing to see him bounce between playing Mr Bennet and Charlotte Lucas so deftly.Meanwhile, Wild is the perfect panicked socialite mother, worried and frantic that her daughters will never marry up and the family will be destitute for the rest of their days. She also has a nice cameo in Act Two as a no-nonsense maid.Dean Alexander takes on the triple role of Mr Collins, Mr Wickham, and Miss Bingley. Alexander brings an original and joyful distinctness to each of his characters.Abi Heydenburg and Tarah Margaret Vega round out the cast as Lizzy’s other sisters, Lydia and Jane, respectively. Heydenburg’s youthful energy is perfect for Lydia. In Act Two, she also takes on upper class socialite Lady Catherine De Bourgh with a haughty pompousness.Vega plays Jane, the most desirable and possibly most naïve of the sisters, as well as well as the mysteriously strange Miss Ann Debourgh. She seamlessly handles both roles with grace and humor.The set is simple and allows the words and acting to be the main focus. One can always count on Al Chiappetta for a stylish and effective technical design showcasing the gem of a theater that is Sherman Playhouse. Sue Haneman handled costumes beautifully, which is no easy task with so many changes.Whether or not you are a fan of Austen’s, Sherman’s acting ensemble for this production of Pride & Prejudice is reason enough to make a visit to Sherman Playhouse. Performances continue to October 7. Tickets and additional information are available at shermanplayers.org. Tickets can also be reserved by calling 860-354-3622.

Pride & Prejudice by Sherman Players review Matt Austin Story Theater Review: Modern Yet Still Faithful ‘Pride & Prejudice’ Adaptation An Enjoyable Show By The Sherman Players Pride & Prejudice by Sherman Players review Features None

Sports

Cross Country Teams Run To Victory

Newtown's girls' and boys' squads both came out on top against a pair of squads in road meet.

Sports

Field Hockey Team Has Complete Effort In Win Over Neighboring Rivals

Field Hockey Team Has Complete Effort In Win Over Neighboring Rivals Nighthawks topple host Masuk before blanking Branford in home game.In the end, a win is a win. But some victories are more fulfilling than others. Take, for example, the Newtown High School field hockey team’s 4-1 triumph at South-West Conference rival Masuk of Monroe under the lights on September 20.“I think today we finished. We had struggled finishing in the circle and playing a solid second half — and today we did both of those,” Coach Megan Goyda said.The Nighthawks did most of their scoring damage in the first half with Brooke Bulkley, Ellenoire Schoen, and Summer Harrell hitting the back of the cage for a 3-0 cushion at the break. It remained 3-0 heading into the fourth quarter. Francesca Glazer capped the Newtown scoring midway through the final quarter when she banged home a loose ball during a scramble in the goal mouth. Harrell, who also assisted another tally, was in on the play as the Nighthawks fought feverishly for ball. Annika Bozentko and Schoen also had assists in the win.Masuk finally broke up the shutout with 2:06 left. The Panthers cashed in off a rare penalty corner opportunity; both teams had just four such chances in the contest.Newtown’s play in the midfield was its best defense and sparked the offense with players routinely creating takeaways before the Panthers could get set up on their offensive end of the field.“We did a good job of stepping to ball,” Goyda said. “We were able to get possession and utilize the give and go.”Glazer did a good job of controlling the ball and dodging defenders, and Schoen and Harrell did their usual strong work in moving the ball through the opposing defense, Goyda noted.Defensively, the Nighthawks were strong when called upon. Jenna Lagan and Harrell both prevented balls from getting into the cage with stellar play in the back.Goaltender Riley Alesevich continues to get better and better, Goyda said.“She’s really taking control of the circle, which is really nice,” the coach added.Alesevich did a good job coming out from the goal to pressure Masuk’s offensive players and break up the play before it had a chance to develop into a scoring chance.Newtown had a strong passing game and the feet were constantly moving as they threatened to create opportunities throughout the night.As much as the Hawks got high marks from their coach, basically across the board, Goyda recognized some areas in which the team can continue to improve.“I think we play fast, but sometimes frenetic, and I think that being able to use our speed but under control is going to help them maintain possession for longer periods of time,” Goyda said.The Nighthawks improved to 4-2 overall with a 1-0 win over nonconference foe Branford, at NHS, on September 23. Although Branford had eight penalty corners to Newtown’s four, it was the Nighthawks who struck on a corner in the first half. Mo Murphy inserted to Schoen whose shot generated a rebound. Harrell pounced on the loose ball and slammed home the goal.Goyda said Newtown seemed to control most of the field with Jules Battaglia continually disrupting Branford’s longball style of play. Bulkley came up with a defensive save behind Alesevich who made six saves for the shutout.The Hawks still have a lot of season remaining, with eight conference tilts plus a possible makeup with Massachusetts team Longmeadow.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

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Sports

Girls’ Soccer Team Posts Shutouts Against A Pair Of Panther Squads

Girls’ Soccer Team Posts Shutouts Against A Pair Of Panther Squads Hawks blank Pomperaug of Southbury and Masuk of Monroe on home turf.Whether from Southbury or Monroe, Panthers were completely denied by Nighthawks on the Blue & Gold Stadium turf in consecutive Newtown High School girls’ soccer team home games, September 21 and 23. First, the Hawks blanked Pomperaug of Southbury under the lights, then they took care of business against Masuk of Monroe in a day game in the rain — each win coming by 2-0 scores.Against Pomperaug, the Hawks registered a goal in each half. The first goal was scored off a corner kick from Leah Morris that was headed in by Sydney Oltran. The second was logged when Ella Morits kept a through ball in play from going over the end line, had her first attempt blocked by the Pomperaug goalkeeper, and then knocked in her rebound. The Nighthawks had a few other chances in the second half that went just wide.Grace Newsom earned her first clean sheet in goal, stopping their two shots on target in what Coach Adam Bourret said was a great team win.In the Masuk game, Oltran was set up by Morits, and Sara Premus capitalized on Masuk’s keeper being well out from the goal following a short kick Premus knocked down. Newsom got another shutout with help from a strong back line that featured solid play by Aashini Shetty, Hannah Stowe, and Jamie Rowan. Ana Morris and defensive midfielder Izzy Caron also made big plays to keep the Panthers from doing much.“Grace Newsom has really stepped up in goal and has been doing everything she needs to,” said Bourret, adding that the defensive unit is doing its collective part in front of her. “They’ve just been playing great together and they’re gelling.”The wet, rainy at times, conditions can serve as a bit of an equalizer for teams but the Nighthawks made no costly mistakes.“It’s very good, especially in these conditions, to come away with a clean sheet knowing anything can happen out there,” Bourret said.Newtown got back at it with a visit to Bethel on September 26 and the Nighthawks and Wildcats played to a 2-2 tie. Bethel scored in the first 15 minutes of the game.“We had a few good looks at goal in the first half but couldn’t convert. Girls fought hard and never gave up and tied the game at 1-1 with eight to go,” Bourret said. Sydney Oltran was on the receiving end of a Bethel clearance, took the ball inside the top of the box and shot far post for the goal. Two minutes later, Bethel went back ahead off a long throw-in that was blasted in from short range. With four minutes to go, Ana Morris played a cross in from deep that made it over the back line, and Morits won the foot race with the goalie and was able to poke it in.“A great display of heart and grit, the girls never gave up,” Bourret said.Varsity Soccer Night In Newtown will take place at Blue & Gold Stadium on Saturday, September 30. It’s a doubleheader with the girls taking on Bunnell at 4 pm, followed by the boys hosting Xavier of Middletown at 6. Newtown Soccer Club players who wear their jersey will get in for free.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Girls Soccer Andy Hutchison Story Girls’ Soccer Team Posts Shutouts AgainstA Pair Of Panther Squads NHS Girls Soccer_153 Featured Slider, Sports None

Sports

Boys’ Soccer Team Tested In Battles Of Unbeatens

Boys’ Soccer Team Tested In Battles Of Unbeatens Nighthawks defeat Naugatuck in the rain and fall to Bethel in a pair of tough home contests.In a clash between unbeaten nonconference foes, Newtown High School’s boys’ soccer team used a pair of first-half tallies to blank visiting Naugatuck 2-0 under the lights in the rain at Blue & Gold Stadium on September 23. Kyle Ruddy and Brendan McAnaspie both scored and Johnny Celli had an assist in the victory.The Nighthawks, a Class L school, improved to 4-0-2 and the Greyhounds, a Class LL team, fell to 4-1-1.“It’s nice to beat a double L, undefeated team,” Newtown Coach Ryan Lyddy said.Especially considering the weather conditions with on and off, heavy at times, rain.“Anything can happen. One bad skip can be a 1-0 game and park the bus and hold it,” said Lyddy, referring to teams getting a lucky bounce and playing defensively to maintain the lead.Instead, Newtown was able to generate a couple of goals and continue to pressure at times.“They stuck it out. We got out clean, meaning no injuries, which is great,” Lyddy said.And it was a clean sheet as they call it, with goalkeeper Yarema Stasyshyn and the Nighthawks getting their first shutout of the campaign. Newtown’s back line of Gjin Abazi, Elias Brady, Ruddy, and Ryan Payne played well in front of their keeper.Lyddy referred to center midfielder Brady Lavelle as the “man of the match,” given his overall play in a key spot on the field.“All year he’s been getting beaten up, and beaten up — and beaten up. And he keeps getting up and fighting and staying positive,” Lyddy said.The Nighthawks were coming off a 2-2 tie at Pomperaug of Southbury two days earlier. Manny Adomako and Payne both found the back of the net and Luke Kellerman and Adomako had assists.Newtown got back to action at home against another unbeaten foe, South-West Conference rival Bethel, at home on September 26. The Nighthawks suffered their first loss of the campaign in a 3-0 decision.Varsity Soccer Night In Newtown will take place at Blue & Gold Stadium on Saturday, September 30. It's a doubleheader with the girls taking on Bunnell at 4 pm, followed by the boys hosting Xavier of Middletown at 6. Newtown Soccer Club players who wear their jersey will get in for free.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Boys Soccer Andy Hutchison Story Boys’ Soccer Team Tested In Battles Of Unbeatens NHS Boys Soccer_124 Sports None

Sports

Girls’ Swim And Dive Squad Takes On Masuk And Weston

Girls’ Swim And Dive Squad Takes On Masuk And Weston Nighthawks record first-place finishes in meets against two opponents.Newtown High School’s girls’ swimming and diving team visited Masuk of Monroe and came away with a 100-78 win on September 22. The Nighthawks sealed the team win after the 200 yard freestyle relay race and exhibitioned the last three events.The 200 medley relay team of Ella Seaver, Lilian Accettella, Alexa Kwarcinski, and Diellza Limani was first in a time of 1:58.96.In the 200 freestyle race, Zoe Petertonjes won in 2:01.53. Anna Shew (2:27.30) and Accettella (2:30.14) went one-two in the 200 individual medley. Limani (27.14) and Seaver (27.70) finished one-two in the 50 free.Ella Hall won the diving event with a score of 204.7.The Nighthawks had one-two finishes in each of the next two events. Petertonjes won the 100 butterfly in 1:01.63 and Maddie Marcisz was second in 1:09.60. Kwarcinski was tops in the 100 free with a time of 55.87 and Lauren Smiley was next, clocking in at 1:01.94. Limani won the 500, making her final touch in 5:51.99.The Nighthawks had the top two quartets in the 200 free relay. Smiley, Accettella, Seaver, and Petertonjes claimed first in 1:50.63 and Audrey McLean, Noelle Marrazzo, Marcisz, and Maddy Watson took second in 1:58.60.In the 100 backstroke race, Shew had the second-fastest time in 1:09.12. Kwarcinski had the best time in the 100 breaststroke, finishing in 1:10.55.The 400 relay event saw NHS record the two fastest times and there was a down-to-the-wire race within the race. Smiley, Angela Wennerholm, Ella Viau, and Petertonjes completed the race in 4:24.20; and Watson, McLean, Emma Sheehan, and Kwarcinski followed closely in 4:24.24.Weston visited Newtown on September 26 and defeated the Nighthawks 101-85. Petertonjes won the 200 free in 2:04.24. Limani was first in the 50 in 26.51. Hall was first in the diving competition (score not submitted). Limani won the 100 in 58.21. The 200 free relay of Limani, Watson, Grace Fischer, and Petertonjes was first in 1:49.80.

NHS Girls Swimming Story Girls’ Swim And Dive Squad Takes On Masuk And Weston NHS Girls Swimming_17 Sports None

Today's Events

October 4, 2023

“Flowers and Other Beautiful Things: Photographs by Fred Bonilla”

Newtown Municipal Center Art Gallery, 3 Primrose Street

Hosted by Newtown Cultural Arts Commission, weekdays to October 31.

October 04, 2023 at 08:00 am

Helpsy Drive: Sandy Hook VFR Ladies Auxiliary

Helpsy-Big Brothers Big Sisters Donation Center, 127 South Main Street

Donations of clothing including accessories and footwear, linens, and other items including luggage, sports jerseys and stuffed animals, all clean, dry and odorless, being accepted for SHVFR LA (donations should be bagged and marked), continues to October 31; SandyHookLadiesAuxiliary@hotmail.com, facebook.copm/sandyhookladiesaux.

October 04, 2023 at 09:00 am

"Inspired By An Artist: An Exhibit of Fiber Art by FiberWorks"

C.H. Booth Library (The John Angel Gallery/third floor alcove), 25 Main Street

Works by members of fiber collective, who took on the challenge of interpreting works by other artists and re-creating them in the fiber medium they work in, to October 31; 203-426-4533.

October 04, 2023 at 09:30 am

“Prison Arts Program: Work from Community Partners in Action Permanent Collection”

C.H. Booth Library (meeting room and Entry Hall), 25 Main Street

Art created by inmates of Connecticut prisons through program mean to positively and constructively change their lives through the encouragement of unique, personal and evolving artistic pursuits, to November 30; 203-426-4533.

October 04, 2023 at 09:30 am

Newtown Bridge Club Chat Bridge

Edmond Town Hall (Alexandria Room), 45 Main Street

Free lessons, games $12/person ($9 NBC members), weekly offering by local club for players who would like assistance in bidding or play; 203-733-8525, director@newtownbridge.org, newtownbridge.org.

October 04, 2023 at 09:30 am

Meeting House Artists Show & Sale

Art & Frame Gallery, 77 Main Street

Show and sale of works by artists from diverse professional backgrounds who meet regularly to learn from each other and have fun while doing so, to October 13; 203-270-0222.

October 04, 2023 at 10:00 am

Newtown Bridge Club Lunch & Learn

Edmond Town Hall (Alexandria Room), 45 Main Street

Free lessons, games $13/person ($10 NBC members), ACBL sanctioned games hosted weekly on Mondays and Wednesdays; 203-733-8525, director@newtownbridge.org, newtownbridge.org.

October 04, 2023 at 11:30 am

Art Explorers with Miss Nora

C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street

Free

For ages 3-6 with an adult caretaker, weekly program promoting creating with a variety of art mediums, dress for a mess, registration requested; chboothlibrary.org

October 04, 2023 at 02:00 pm

2nd Annual FONS OktoberFest

5-9 pm (rain date October 11)

NewSylum Brewing Company gazebo, 36 Keating Farms Avenue

$30/person, reservations required (cash bar)

Full thematic catered dinner, live music by Solid Gold Times Two, hosted by Friends of Newtown Seniors; 203-430-0633, 203-648-6905, msbevtoo@yahoo.com.

October 04, 2023 at 05:00 pm

Couch to 5K

Fairfield Hills

Get ready for the Turkey Trot with a fun-filled Couch to 5K program, every Wednesday at 5:30 pm until November 23, hosted by the C.H. Booth Library, registration required; 203-426-4533, chboothlibrary.org

October 04, 2023 at 05:30 pm

American Legion Post 202-Newtown & Brookfield meeting

Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson Street

New members always welcome (current active duty members of US Armed Forces and anyone who served at least one day during conflicts dating back to World War II eligible; overseas service not mandatory), local Post meets first Wednesday of the month, August to June; 203-577-9568, americanlegionnewtown@gmail.com.

October 04, 2023 at 07:00 pm

CHB Library DEI Committee meeting (agenda posted)

C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street

Agenda posted

October 04, 2023 at 07:00 pm

Legislative Council meeting (agenda posted)

Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street

Agenda posted

October 04, 2023 at 07:30 pm

Zoning Board of Appeals **CANCELED**

October 04, 2023 at 07:30 pm

Special Editions

Jane Sherman

David Michael Barbour

Burgerittoville: A Foodie Destination With Unique Menu Options, Comfy Ambiance

I was an employee at the same time Keat's was working for Grand Union at the Valley Stream store on Long Island remember him vividly after all of these years.

Keats Gill

The only time the word "fail" is found on this entire page is from your post. Newtown used to be a Blue Ribbon school district; it hasn't been for some time. For many of us who expect excellence in our Town's public school system the current performance levels are underwhelming, which is exactly what Mr. Higgins points out. It would be wonderful if you could specifically tell us where in this letter Mr. Higgins is "tearing down" the school system. You sir, seem to be employing typical Democratic Party tactics by twisting the words of anyone who isn't in your party to craft your own narrative. Voters beware.

Higgins Hoping For A Full Term On The BOE

RIP JOHNNY

John Ulatowski

Mr Higgins seems to be joining other Republicans in claiming Newtown Schools are failing. . I challenge that perspective, Our High School is rated in the top 5% nationwide, and our system in the top 20% of schools in CT, which is rated the 4th best statewide system. Criticizing our schools has become the essences of this years Republican campaign. We should always strive to improve our schools, but tearing them down is not the way to do this. Reader beware.

As an independent I applaud [Barney] for being unaffiliated. However that is not the case in this election. Running on the Republican Line makes him beholden to the Party he is running for. He is not unaffiliated in his actions,. This time around he has signed onto a major parties agenda. like it or not. If he bucks the party next election he'll be out.

Unaffiliated BOF Hopeful Malloy Running With GOP Support

Got Your Orange Bags? Waste Reduction Challenge Kicking Food Scrap Awareness, Recycling Into High Gear

This Is Only A Test: Emergency Notification Will Hit Mobile Devices Wednesday

Town Receives Grant For Senior Center Patio

Field Hockey Team Has Complete Effort In Win Over Neighboring Rivals

Got Your Orange Bags? Waste Reduction Challenge Kicking Food Scrap Awareness, Recycling Into High Gear

This Is Only A Test: Emergency Notification Will Hit Mobile Devices Wednesday

Town Receives Grant For Senior Center Patio

Comedians Aren’t ‘Just Joking’ In Chilling New PSA By Sandy Hook Promise

Newtown’s Legacy Land Trust Seeks To Protect Historic Open Space

The Way We Were

Top Of The Mountain

Pandemic Over But Changes Live On Through ‘60 Second Marriage Tips’

Snapshot: Alyssa Mancini

Theater Review: Modern Yet Still Faithful ‘Pride & Prejudice’ Adaptation An Enjoyable Show By The Sherman Players

Cross Country Teams Run To Victory

Field Hockey Team Has Complete Effort In Win Over Neighboring Rivals

Girls’ Soccer Team Posts Shutouts Against A Pair Of Panther Squads

Boys’ Soccer Team Tested In Battles Of Unbeatens

Girls’ Swim And Dive Squad Takes On Masuk And Weston

Home & Garden Fall 2023

Newtown Bee's Back-To-School 2023

For Better Health - Spring 2023

Home & Garden Spring 2023

Guide To Newtown 2023

Holiday Gift Guide 2022

For Better Health - Fall 2022

Back To School 2021

The Newtown Bee's Special Edition, 12/14/12

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Got Your Orange Bags? Waste Reduction Challenge Kicking Food Scrap Awareness, Recycling Into High Gear

This Is Only A Test: Emergency Notification Will Hit Mobile Devices Wednesday

Town Receives Grant For Senior Center Patio

Field Hockey Team Has Complete Effort In Win Over Neighboring Rivals

Got Your Orange Bags? Waste Reduction Challenge Kicking Food Scrap Awareness, Recycling Into High Gear

This Is Only A Test: Emergency Notification Will Hit Mobile Devices Wednesday

Town Receives Grant For Senior Center Patio

Comedians Aren’t ‘Just Joking’ In Chilling New PSA By Sandy Hook Promise

Newtown’s Legacy Land Trust Seeks To Protect Historic Open Space

The Way We Were

Top Of The Mountain

Pandemic Over But Changes Live On Through ‘60 Second Marriage Tips’

Snapshot: Alyssa Mancini

Theater Review: Modern Yet Still Faithful ‘Pride & Prejudice’ Adaptation An Enjoyable Show By The Sherman Players

Cross Country Teams Run To Victory

Field Hockey Team Has Complete Effort In Win Over Neighboring Rivals

Girls’ Soccer Team Posts Shutouts Against A Pair Of Panther Squads

Boys’ Soccer Team Tested In Battles Of Unbeatens

Girls’ Swim And Dive Squad Takes On Masuk And Weston

Home & Garden Fall 2023

Newtown Bee's Back-To-School 2023

For Better Health - Spring 2023

Home & Garden Spring 2023

Guide To Newtown 2023

Holiday Gift Guide 2022

For Better Health - Fall 2022

Back To School 2021

The Newtown Bee's Special Edition, 12/14/12