Top Five NewtownBee.com Stories For January 10-16
Here's a roundup of the week's top stories posted to newtownbee.com.Each week we compile a list of some of the most-read stories published at newtownbee.com. Here is a roundup of the week’s recent top stories, based on the number of page reads.Keep up with all the Newtown news by subscribing to the paper each week — click “Subscribe” at newtownbee.com or e-mail subscriptions@thebee.com — and check our website for updates.“Breaking News: Newtown COVID Vaccine Registration Opens For Qualified Residents,” by John Voket, published January 12. First Selectman Dan Rosenthal announced that qualified residents under the “1b” category can register on the municipal website for the COVID-19 vaccine. Read more at newtownbee.com/01122021/breaking-news-newtown-covid-vaccine-registration-opens-for-qualified-residents.“Newtown COVID Case Count Accelerates To 1,131, More Deaths Reported In Community,” by John Voket, published January 14. Despite countless prevention reminders and the initiation of vaccines locally among a growing number of emergency responders, front line workers, and other qualified recipients, local cases accelerated in the previous week, blowing through the 1,000 benchmark and taking at least three more residents’ lives. Read more at newtownbee.com/01142021/newtown-covid-case-count-accelerates-to-1131-more-deaths-reported-in-community.“Former Local Teacher Anxious To Resume Golden Opportunities Volunteer Duties,” by John Voket, published January 10. As a lifelong educator, Newtown resident George Stockwell did not let retirement separate him from helping those interested in learning a thing or two. Shortly after Stockwell capped his career with the Newtown school district, he began volunteering with the locally based Golden Opportunities (GO) organization. Read more at newtownbee.com/01102021/former-local-teacher-anxious-to-resume-golden-opportunities-volunteer-duties.“58,000 Returns And Counting: Betty Presnell’s One-Woman Bottle & Can Drive,” by Shannon Hicks, published January 10. Since last July, Betty Presnell has raised $2,900, one nickel at a time. Presnell, a very longtime Newtown resident (“60½ years, off and on,” she said January 4), has been operating a one-woman bottle and can drive, with proceeds all being donated to local organizations. Read more at newtownbee.com/01102021/betty-presnells-one-woman-bottle-can-drive.“Resistance Is Not Futile: Local Trainer Says It Is Key To Improving Fitness,” by John Voket, published January 12. “Small bites” and “resistance” are a couple of things you might think of if you are among millions of folks resolving to drop some weight or get healthier in 2021. But you might be surprised to hear a local, long-tenured physical trainer using these terms even though in his context, they have absolutely nothing to do with dieting. Read more at newtownbee.com/01122021/local-trainer-says-resistance-is-key-to-improving-fitness.Top Five NewtownBee.com Stories For January 10-16 Eliza Hallabeck
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Will You Be Their Valentine?
The American Legion Post 202 Valentines for Troops 2021 program is underway.American Legion Post 202 is sponsoring Valentines for Troops, and seeking participants of all ages.Since January 2006, Newtown has been reaching out to active duty military both overseas and at home. What began as a letter writing exercise in educator Carole MacInnes’s second grade class at Sandy Hook Elementary School has grown as an outreach, townwide. Schools, clubs, Scout troops, town groups, churches, and individuals write cards and letters to the military, sending a message of cheer and thanks. Some groups send care packages, too.This year, Valentines will go to the Connecticut National Guard, the Coast Guard, Marines, Air Force, Navy, and the Army. Some units are overseas, and some are stateside. Everyone on the list would appreciate a card, note, or a small gesture of thanks.Since COVID began, there is not one person who has not been impacted in one way or another. So, too, it is with those in the military. It is particularly stressful on the young troops, some of whom are away from home for the very first time. Navy ships at sea are not making ports of call and sailors are quarantined to their ship for many months. Troops at home are sometimes quarantined to their post or base or even their unit barracks or work area. Imagine not being able to run out to Big Y, Dunkin Donuts, Target, CVS, or Costco.Many of the military contacts this year are Newtown sons and daughters. Some are Connecticut neighbors and friends. Each and every one of them is giving their all to support and defend this nation and appreciates thanks and gratitude.To participate sending cards/letters or care packages to the active duty military, reach out to Senior Vice Commander Donna A Monteleone at americanlegionnewtown@gmail.com.Any veteran who has served honorably on active duty, regardless of era, is eligible to join American Legion Post 202. Family members of veterans might like to join the Auxiliary or Sons of the American Legion.To donate to help American Legion Post 202 with its outreach, send a check to American Legion Post 202, PO Box 659, Newtown CT 06470.For more information e-mail the address above or call 203-577-9568.Valentines For Troops 2021 Story Will You Be Their Valentine?Valentines For Troops 2021NewsNone
Church Hill Village Begins COVID Vaccine Program For Residents, Staff January 10 marked the roll-out of the first institutional COVID-19 vaccination program at a congregate care facility in Newtown.January 10 marked the roll-out of the first institutional COVID-19 vaccination program at a congregate care facility in Newtown, and another was poised to commence on January 17.Executive Director Laura Pulsifer at Church Hill Village notified The Newtown Bee that her facility had received and distributed the inoculations, while management at Maplewood at Newtown were readying for this week’s clinic.After experiencing just one verified COVID-19 infection in a resident since the novel coronavirus arrived in Connecticut last March, Pulsifer said in an e-mail message that resident was “doing just fine, thankfully.”“After a very, very difficult few weeks with keeping staff out who are exposed and ill, and watching our area numbers climb, I take such pride in the individual and group efforts of the entire Church Hill Village community to make the following announcement — all resident COVID-19 tests this week are back and are negative,” Pulsifer said.Pulsifer said besides all the facility’s residents receiving the first round of the vaccine, many of the Church Hill Village associates were also vaccinated.“I hope this keeps their families and our town safe, too,” she said. “I did not even realize the full weight of the worry of the past year until the night before the vaccine clinic... worry that permeated home time, work time, school time, sports time. Everyone, everywhere, carried this worry. Literally, there was worry with each breath of 2020. What a tremendous relief.”Pulsifer explained that the second dose of the vaccine, due to be distributed later this month, “will almost guarantee COVID-19 protection to every resident.”“I speak for our entire leadership team and every associate when I tell you we cannot wait for that day when we leave work and know our residents are safe from this virus. That day is closer,” Pulsifer said. “This does not yet mean we can change any associate, resident, or visitor protocols or remove restrictions. Please continue to be vigilant to protect all our associates, residents, and families at home.”Jillian Jarrin, director of sales and marketing, observed, “Overall the vaccine clinic went smoother than we could have hoped for. It really seemed to instill a renewed sense of hope throughout the entire building.”Jarrin said one Church Hill Village employee was near tears in excitement to be able to finally see her grandparents.“As my family says, doing nothing changes nothing. I personally was a last-minute converter to get the vaccine. I went back and forth with it a lot, but ultimately it’s not just about me but everyone around me,” Jarrin added. “The nervous energy through the community leading up to vaccination day has changed to joy.”A spokesperson said in a January 2 notification that Maplewood Senior Living is “extremely excited” to be offering the vaccine to residents and associates across its communities. Maplewood at Darien, hosted its first clinic January 5. Newtown’s neighboring Bethel facility at Stony Hill provided vaccines on January 7.Church Hill Village Begins COVID Vax Program For Residents, Staff John Voket
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What's In The Works?
The Newtown Bee is working for you and with you, to bring you the news you want.At The Newtown Bee, we are working on articles every week for our readers’ education and enjoyment, and subscribers get the first — and sometimes exclusive — look at stories in print.What’s in the works for the edition of January 22 include first looks at the municipal and education budgets; a donation from the heart, for the heart; goodbye to Nora the Comfort Cat; a local woman is elected to the Hearts For Hope board; and how is the public protected when emergency responders find their ranks affected by COVID-19 exposure?There are plenty of stories and breaking news posted to newtownbee.com, but you’ll find full coverage in our print edition. For complete news about Newtown, join our subscribers in being in the know (https://classadz.vdata.com/Legacy/NewtownBee/Circulation/Subscriber/).Whats In The Works Story What's In The Works?Obit KlucsikFeatured Slider, NewsNone
Detours Through Fairfield Hills Following CrashDetours are in place this Monday morning following a crash around 6:30 that sent one driver to the hospital.UPDATE (3:35 pm): Newtown Police have reopened Wasserman Way. * * * * *Detours are in place this Monday morning following a crash around 6:30 that sent one driver to the hospital.Drivers on Wasserman Way are being detoured by Newtown Police officers, who are staged at the intersection of Wasserman at Mile Hill South and Wasserman at Trades Lane. Police, fire, and ambulance were sent to Wasserman Way around 6:30, after the driver of a four-door station wagon/SUV traveling east on Wasserman lost control of that vehicle. The vehicle struck a utility pole, then went off the north side of the roadway, also known as State Route 490, and crashed into the chain link fence there. The driver of that vehicle was taken to the hospital by Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps.A second vehicle was caught under utility wires that had fallen across the roadway due to the crash. The driver of that vehicle was reportedly uninjured, but had to wait until an Eversource crew arrived on scene. The crew disconnected power, and the driver of the second vehicle was able to drive from the scene.The roadway will remain closed until the utility pole can be replaced and wires restrung. Firefighters from Newtown Hook & Ladder and Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue also responded.
Fire Reports | January 8-13, 2021
Fire calls and their responders in Newtown, Conn., for the period of January 8 to January 13, 2021.The dispatchers at the Newtown Emergency Communications Center at Town Hall South, 3 Main Street, report the following fire calls and the responders:Friday, January 8: 9:47 am, CO alarm, Julia Court, Sandy Hook responded; 4:53 pm, medical assist, Kelly Court, Botsford responded.Saturday, January 9: 6:44 pm, medical assist, Old Green Road, Sandy Hook responded.Sunday, January 10: 10:21 am, fire alarm commercial, South Main Street, Botsford responded.Monday, January 11: 9:07 am, service call, Main Street/Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder covered; 9:34 am, medical assist, Hattertown Road, Dodgingtown responded; 4:04 pm, fire alarm residential, Alpine Circle, Sandy Hook and Hook & Ladder responded.Tuesday, January 12: 11:34 am, fire alarm residential, Currituck Road, Hook & Ladder and Hawleyville responded.Wednesday, January 13: 7:09 am, general alarm/smoke, Mount Pleasant Road, Hawleyville, Hook & Ladder, Dodgingtown, and Sandy Hook responded; 2:38 pm, motor vehicle accident with injury, Old Green Road, Sandy Hook responded; 5:05 pm, service call, Main Street/Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder covered; 6 pm, fire alarm residential, Hall Lane, Hook & Ladder responded.Fire Reports | January 8-13, 2021 Story Fire Reports | January 8-13, 202112/14 statements from Lamont, et al (politicians)NewsNone
Top Five NewtownBee.com Stories For January 10-16
Here's a roundup of the week's top stories posted to newtownbee.com.Each week we compile a list of some of the most-read stories published at newtownbee.com. Here is a roundup of the week’s recent top stories, based on the number of page reads.Keep up with all the Newtown news by subscribing to the paper each week — click “Subscribe” at newtownbee.com or e-mail subscriptions@thebee.com — and check our website for updates.“Breaking News: Newtown COVID Vaccine Registration Opens For Qualified Residents,” by John Voket, published January 12. First Selectman Dan Rosenthal announced that qualified residents under the “1b” category can register on the municipal website for the COVID-19 vaccine. Read more at newtownbee.com/01122021/breaking-news-newtown-covid-vaccine-registration-opens-for-qualified-residents.“Newtown COVID Case Count Accelerates To 1,131, More Deaths Reported In Community,” by John Voket, published January 14. Despite countless prevention reminders and the initiation of vaccines locally among a growing number of emergency responders, front line workers, and other qualified recipients, local cases accelerated in the previous week, blowing through the 1,000 benchmark and taking at least three more residents’ lives. Read more at newtownbee.com/01142021/newtown-covid-case-count-accelerates-to-1131-more-deaths-reported-in-community.“Former Local Teacher Anxious To Resume Golden Opportunities Volunteer Duties,” by John Voket, published January 10. As a lifelong educator, Newtown resident George Stockwell did not let retirement separate him from helping those interested in learning a thing or two. Shortly after Stockwell capped his career with the Newtown school district, he began volunteering with the locally based Golden Opportunities (GO) organization. Read more at newtownbee.com/01102021/former-local-teacher-anxious-to-resume-golden-opportunities-volunteer-duties.“58,000 Returns And Counting: Betty Presnell’s One-Woman Bottle & Can Drive,” by Shannon Hicks, published January 10. Since last July, Betty Presnell has raised $2,900, one nickel at a time. Presnell, a very longtime Newtown resident (“60½ years, off and on,” she said January 4), has been operating a one-woman bottle and can drive, with proceeds all being donated to local organizations. Read more at newtownbee.com/01102021/betty-presnells-one-woman-bottle-can-drive.“Resistance Is Not Futile: Local Trainer Says It Is Key To Improving Fitness,” by John Voket, published January 12. “Small bites” and “resistance” are a couple of things you might think of if you are among millions of folks resolving to drop some weight or get healthier in 2021. But you might be surprised to hear a local, long-tenured physical trainer using these terms even though in his context, they have absolutely nothing to do with dieting. Read more at newtownbee.com/01122021/local-trainer-says-resistance-is-key-to-improving-fitness.Top Five NewtownBee.com Stories For January 10-16 Eliza Hallabeck
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Snapshot: Heather Corwyn McKeownOccupation: I am 24 years old and am a freelance dancer and choreographer, a certified vinyasa yoga instructor, and a certified integrative nutrition health coach. Currently, I am a nanny for the sweetest family in Sandy Hook while I am also building my coaching business.As a health coach, I mostly work with young female dancers in their teens and 20s. I offer one-on-one coaching sessions as well as group coaching. My newest offer is a brand-new group coaching program I am launching this spring for dancers to gain self confidence, improve body image, squash self comparison, and eliminate disordered eating patterns.Family: I was born and raised in Newtown, living with my parents and my older brother, Jonah. I have so many beautiful memories here with my family and friends.Pets: We now live here with our two Shetland sheepdogs, Sophie and Stanley, and our cat, Humphrey.How long have you lived in Newtown? Newtown has my heart and will always be my home, but I did explore some other places on my own for a brief period. I lived in Massachusetts for a bit, where I attended Montserrat College of Art for a semester. I loved the school and the people I met there, but dance was calling my name, so I decided to transfer schools. It was then that I attended Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Penn., for four years to receive my BA in dance choreography. Ever since graduating, I have been back in Newtown. Newtown will always be home to me, but I am definitely ready to explore many more parts of the world.What is your favorite travel destination? My favorite travel destination, of the few places I’ve been able to experience so far in my life, is Italy. I spent a magical month in Arezzo, a beautiful little city in Tuscany, at the Accademia dell’Arte studying dance. I would love nothing more than to go back there and dance again under the Tuscan sun.Who or what has been the greatest influence in your life? I owe that entire life-changing experience to my parents, who generously paid for all the expenses. I am eternally grateful for all of their support. They are definitely my biggest influences in life, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.What organizations are you part of in Newtown? I attended Lathrop School of Dance in Newtown as a child before moving on to further my training. I am now back dancing there with my mom and the Stardusters. Lathrop is a big family of dancers who bring so much joy to the town in their yearly recitals and shows they put on at the Newtown tree lighting and other town events every year.If you could spend the day with one person, who would you choose and why? If I could spend the day with one person, I would pick my Papa (my grandfather on my mom’s side). I miss him dearly, and I wish I had been older than 16 when he passed.What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? I’m not sure what the greatest piece of advice I’ve ever been given is, but one that stands out in my mind is “The grass isn’t greener on the other side, it is greener wherever you water it.”What is something you cannot live without? Something I cannot live without is my passion. I would be lost without the extreme sense of passion I feel and have for dance, art, coaching, and almost any endeavor I choose to take on in life.What is your proudest accomplishment? Paying for my health coaching education and creating this program from scratch all on my own has been my proudest accomplishment so far in my life. I feel so passionately and strongly about how necessary this type of support and education is for young dancers, and I am ready to change the mental and physical health of the dance world, one student at a time.Snapshot Heather McKeown Story Snapshot: Heather Corwyn McKeownSnapshot Heather McKeownFeaturesNone
Ivy Kathleen Jeanfaivre, Newtown’s First Baby Of 2021, Gives Family ‘A Special Place In The History Books’Ivy Kathleen Jeanfaivre has been named Newtown’s First Baby of 2021.Ivy Kathleen Jeanfaivre has been named Newtown’s First Baby of 2021.The third child of Callie and Gary Jeanfaivre of Newtown, she was born at 10:41 am, Thursday, January 7, at St Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport.At birth, Ivy weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20.5 inches tall.The Jeanfaivre (pronounced “jean-favor”) family sat down via Zoom this week to talk about their newest addition and her special honor.Ivy is the younger sister of Emmett, 9, and Isabelle, 7. Both are students at Head O’ Meadow Elementary School. While Emmett did not have much to say about his new sister, Isabelle offered a big thumbs up when asked about her.The center of attention during the call Tuesday evening slept through everything. Having been to the doctor earlier, Ivy was sound asleep in her car seat. Her parents, siblings, and Ziggy, one of the Jeanfaivre family’s dogs, were gathered around a couch next to the five-day-old baby.“A new baby, what’s better than that?” Gary Jeanfaivre said. “Pure innocence, joy, wonder, and possibility.”There were no medical challenges during Ivy’s birth, her parents said. The big changes this time, versus the first two births, “was the reality of being in a pandemic” during the pregnancy and birth, Gary said.Gary was unable to attend the checkups with Callie, they noted.“In the past, that was something I always did with her,” he said. “When it was time for baby to come, I could stay with her, but there were no visitors.”Emmett and Isabelle met their baby sister for the first time over Facetime.“We were lucky to have Callie’s mom come and stay with the kids for a few days,” he said.One thing that remains the same, the parents said, is listening to everything their doctor tells them to do to keep their new child and entire family safe and healthy.Ivy’s first name was a favorite choice for both parents. Her middle name, however, has significance in that it honors her late paternal grandmother.“She is named after Gary’s mom, who passed away two years ago,” Callie shared. “So that is very special to us.”“We wanted to have a way for her be a part of her even though she’s not here,” Gary added.Ivy’s maternal grandparents are Dawn Altomaro and Robert Keppler of Fairfield; and Peter and Patty Altomaro of Alpharetta, Ga. Her maternal great-grandparents are Janet Altomaro of Stamford, and Sophie Robie of Raleigh, N.C.Her paternal grandfather is Gary Jeanfaivre, Sr, of Sebring, Fla., and her paternal great-grandparents are Laura Hewitt of Sandy Hook, and Ruth Jeanfaivre of Sebring, Fla.The Jeanfaivres did not know the sex of their third child ahead of her birth. Callie was convinced, in fact, that she was carrying a boy.“Just the way I was carrying, I thought I looked the way I did when I had Emmett,” she said. “But that goes to show you, you can’t always go by that,” she added, laughing. “The entire family banked on it being a boy.“We were shocked when the baby came out,” she said. “Absolutely shocked.”“It was such a wonderful surprise,” Gary quickly added. “Life is full of surprises, but there are very few you can actually control.”In addition to being named the 63rd annual First Baby of Newtown, Ivy has won her family a gift-filled prize package. While her parents are excited about the prizes, they said there were tickled with the tradition their family is now part of.“It’s really exciting to become part of that tradition,” Gary said Tuesday evening. “I think it’s really cool that The Bee does this every year.“We love this town, we love this community, and it’s neat for Ivy to give us a special place in the history books.”The Prize PackageAs has happened for the past 62 years, local merchants have donated prizes to be awarded to the family of the First Baby of Newtown.This year’s package includes a gift certificate for Anthony Mason Custom Gutter & Roofing for a free gutter cleaning; a gift certificate from Avancé Day Spa for a European facial; a $30 gift certificate from Barnwood Grill; a baby-themed gift basket valued at $19.99 and a $50 gift card from BD Provisions; dinner for two at Blue Colony Diner; and a $25 gift certificate from Hero For Men Barbering.There’s also a one-hour personal training session at Joanne’s Fitness Studio; a large cheese pizza from Franco’s Pizza & Pasta; a large cheese pizza from Lions Bleeker Street Pizza; and a $50 gift card from My Place Pizza & Restaurant.In addition, the package contains a $100 gift card from Newtown Hardware; a $25 starter account at Newtown Savings Bank; a $25 gift certificate from Nick’s Catering; a large cheese pizza from Papa Al’s Pizza-Pasta-Subs; and a $25 gift certificate and laundry bag from PJ’s Laundromat.A four-pack of beer for the parents, from Reverie Brewing Co; a $50 gift certificate from Ricci’s Salon; a $50 gift certificate from Tambascio’s Italian Grill; a one-year subscription or extension to The Newtown Bee; a $100 gift certificate from Steven Nicole Salon; a color and haircut at Thomas E. Salon; a $50 gift certificate from UK Gourmet; and a gift bottle of Roeder Estate Brut Champagne from Yankee Wine & Spirits round out the gifts from local business owners.First Baby 2021 Ivy Kathleen Jeanfaivre Shannon Hicks
Story Ivy Kathleen Jeanfaivre, Newtown’s First Baby Of 2021, Gives Family ‘A Special Place In The History Books’First Baby 2021 Ivy Kathleen JeanfaivreFeatured Slider, FeaturesNone
A ‘One-Stop Shop’ At Pleasant Paws Pet Center
Pleasant Paws Pet Center, located at 94 South Main Street, is giving pet owners the luxury and convenience of having all their animals’ needs met under one roof.Pleasant Paws Pet Center, located at 94 South Main Street, is giving pet owners the luxury and convenience of having all their animals’ needs met under one roof.Residents may recognize some familiar faces at the new facility that opened in November 2020, because the business is owned by Dr Rakesh Vali of Mt Pleasant Hospital For Animals, 119 Mt Pleasant Road.He and his staff are extending their expertise and care to two locations in Newtown to offer more services to their dedicated clientele.Before Dr Vali opened Pleasant Paws Pet Center, he said he was always being asked about certain services and it inspired him to create a new business that would be the answer to all those requests. All the while he knew that when he did, he wanted to keep it local.“Newtown is very animal-friendly, pet-friendly,” Dr Vali said. “We have a lot of dog ownership [here] — practically every house has a dog.”With that in mind, he assures that Mt Pleasant Hospital For Animals will remain open to continue its veterinary care and medicine, and that Pleasant Paws Pet Center will be the place for additional resources for pet.“It’s a one-stop shop for pets. It has everything you need for any pet-related need,” Dr Vali said.Services To Check OutPleasant Paws Pet Center offers a wide assortment of services from grooming and spa amenities to veterinary care, physical rehabilitation, holistic medicine — and everything in between.“We have an underwater treadmill that is the prime, expensive piece of equipment,” Dr Vali said of the physical rehabilitation offerings. “It is important for older dogs and for dogs with injuries… we do the underwater treadmill, so that way they are not stressing their joints.”At the canine rehabilitation center, cold lasers and a variety of other equipment are also available, depending on the need.As for holistic medicine, Pleasant Paws Pet Center has veterinarians who practice acupuncture and have a knowledge of natural supplements.Those looking to purchase everyday items or specially ordered products for their pet can visit the Paws Pet Boutique inside Pleasant Paws Pet Center. It sells a variety of food, including raw options for dogs and cats, and special orders through the boutique arrive within the week. There are also treats, toys, training equipment, accessories, veterinary supplies, and CBD products available.Pet owners seeking obedience training for their dogs can sign them up for a classes based on age and experience level. Monday and Thursday night classes are led by Canine Training and Behavior Services, LLC. The certified and insured group has been training pets since 1984 and rents space at Pleasant Paws Pet Center to offer this service. The Newtown Kennel Club rents space on Tuesday nights for their American Kennel Club Conformation Dog Handling Class. Then on some Wednesday evenings, Pleasant Paws Pet Center has their own trainer teaching a second American Kennel Club Conformation Dog Handling Class. People can request private training for their dog, as well.Pleasant Paws Pet Center also rents out its conference room, dog training room, and daycare rooms when they are not utilizing them — making for a great opportunity to host a dog birthday party.Boarding for dogs, cats, birds, and pocket pets, such as reptiles, is also a available at Pleasant Paws Pet Center.Dogs have options of three different indoor layouts, as well as outdoor areas for bathroom breaks and walks. Meanwhile cats have “kitty condos” separate from the canine boarding and can utilize a cat playroom area, as well.For dogs who need supervision just during the daytime, there is a dog daycare.“We do temperament testing on each dog for an evaluation… to see if the dog is able to handle other pets,” Dr Vali said of the daycare process. “We have a big, big yard with people monitoring outside the yard and inside the yard.”The experience is not only cost effective for owners who would otherwise be opting for a daily dog walker, but it is also emotionally beneficially and saves them time at the end of their work day.“Dogs will come in and will hang out and have fun. They will get regular breaks in between. It’s basically a lot of socialization and a lot of energy comes out, so people don’t have to worry about going home and walking their dog… It takes a lot of stress off people,” Dr Vali explained.Ultimately, that is the goal of Pleasant Paws Pet Center, to have happy pets and happy owners at the end of each day.Pleasant Paws Pet Center is currently open Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm; Saturday, from 8 to 3 pm; and closed on Sunday. For more information about Pleasant Paws Pet Center visit pleasantpawspetcenter.com, e-mail woofwoof@pleasantpawspetcenter.com, or call 203-491-2770.Pleasant Paws Pet Center Alissa Silber
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The Top Of The Mountain
Newtown, from a cat's point of view.Just a reminder, in case for some crazy reason you missed this in last week’s column: Newtown Youth and Family Services is seeking donations of new toys and books, appropriate for children up to age 14, for a special Birthday Bin. Gift cards will also be accepted, and NYFS has also set up a wish list at amazon.com. Donations can be dropped off at NYFS, 15 Berkshire Road in Sandy Hook. Once a supply has been built, parents and guardians who need gifts for a child’s birthday will be able to select a few new gifts from the Birthday Bin, no questions asked.Want to have some FUN? Families United in Newtown (FUN) a locally based nonprofit providing support and social/recreational activities for local families with special needs youths is inviting community members to “drive-by” and help celebrate its members’ January birthdays. The birthday car parade is schedule for this Saturday, January 16, at 2:15 pm, at the Newtown United Methodist Church, 92 Church Hill Road. Participants are asked to line up at 2 pm, and at 2:15 the vehicles will circle the building, passing by the birthday group. For more information, visit familiesunitedinnewtown.org, or check the group’s Facebook page.It’s Girl Scout Cookie season again! And though this year may look a little different than years past, rest assured, all of your favorites are still available. Instead of a knock on the door or ring of your doorbell, you may receive a flier on your door or in your mailbox. Don’t throw it out! It has all the information you need to place a cookie order. The QR code on the flier will take you directly to an online cookie store where you can place your order — with a Girl Scout like Tori Orawsky, pictured with a selection of cookies. You can choose to have the cookies shipped directly to you, have the cookies delivered to you for free, or skip the calories and donate to Cookies for Heroes. This is all part of Girl Scouts of Connecticut’s commitment to keeping all Girl Scouts and their cookie customers safe during these challenging times. If you have questions about ordering cookies, please reach out to the Newtown Girl Scouts Service Unit at newtownsuteam@gmail.com.CHECK it out! The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix made chess fans of many who can’t tell at bishop from a pawn. That’s okay. Adults can sign up for a beginners’ series of nine online chess lessons through the C.H. Booth Library. The first class is Sunday, January 17, at 1 pm. Registration is required at chboothlibrary.org to get the Zoom link; or call 203-426-4533 for information.The Catherine Violet Hubbard Foundation has a terrific offer that will earn you first place in the heart of your valentine. Honor your special loved one as a “Beautiful Butterfly” for a $100 donation. Their name will be “prominently displayed” at the sanctuary on Old Farm Road (beyond the dog park) through all of 2021. It’s the perfect gift for the beloved creature lover in your life, and the donation will “support the sanctuary’s programs which foster a kinder and gentle world for animals, humans, and the environment,” according to the information at cvhfoundation.org, where you can sign up your beautiful butterfly through February 1, 2021.I’ve mentioned it before, but it is worth mentioning again: The Friends of the C.H. Booth Library are presenting a special pop-up sale of children’s and young adult books and media. Stop by the display on the second floor, near the main circulation desk, during regular library hours to check out the great offerings, through January 30. Who knows what treasures you will find? And while you’re at it, why not browse the Little Book Store, also on the second floor, where you can get bargain priced new/gently used books for all ages, in a wide variety of categories?There was something familiar about the photo that was in “The Way We Were” column on January 8. Bee staff member Sandy Morici sent out a note to her daughter in Australia, asking, “Is that you?” in the photo of the Lathrop School of Dance Sugarbabies. Sure enough, Amanda (Morici) Rasch responded that she was the little dancer fifth from the left in the photo. Being that she was only about 6 years old at the time, Amanda confesses she cannot recall the names of the other Sugarbabies dancing with her, which was at a performance around 1988, she believes.Hooray! January 15 is National Booch Day! What? That would be a day to celebrate Kombucha, the fermented drink that gained popularity a few years back with its loads of probiotics, B vitamins, and tangy taste. And what better day to use a glass of “booch” to wash down a tasty bagel, because this Friday also happens to be National Bagel Day. Ah, perfection!Sometimes I just want a little something to exercise my brain on a chilly day, so I go to newtownbee.com, select theLiving tab and then Games, and work out one of the crossword puzzles or Sudoku challenges. What? You didn’t know you could do puzzles online at The Bee website? Take a look. Take a brain break! A bit of fun goes a long way.You know I’m always up for some bird watching, and in the colder months, it’s nice to ponder what kinds of plants will attract the greatest variety of birds to my scene. Audubon Connecticut can help with that. Visit ct.audubon.plants-for-birds to plug in your locale and get tips on the best year around plantings that will help birds thrive. And when birds thrive, it makes for some great bird watching!Audubon Bent of the River center in Southbury has a program coming up via Zoom that is also of interest to birders. Register to learn about the “Waterfowl of the Atlantic Flyway” at https://bentoftheriver.audubon.org/events. The January 20 program, from 7 to 8:15 pm, features an expert look at the species you can spot between Maine and Florida. Ken Elkins of Bent of the River and Harrison Jackson of the Pickering Creek Audubon Center in Maryland are the presenters for this program that is geared for people age 12 and up. There is a $10 registration fee — and you will get the Zoom link when you register. Call 203-405-9113 for more information.I worked pretty hard a coloring the last few coloring pages in the Education section. But holding a crayon in my paws did not lead to such great success. I hope you are having more success — send a photo of your coloring effort to eliza@thebee.com. We’d love to see how you are adding life to our original artwork!Winter seems to bring out the lazy in me, though, to be honest... a soft cushion, a bowl of milk, and I’m ready for catnap. It brings to mind a quote from one of my favorite philosophers — Winnie the Pooh: “People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.”Well, not every day. I’ll be out and about to catch up on the going-ons around town. So be sure next week to... Read me again.Top of the Mountain Story The Top Of The MountainTop of the Mountain_215FeaturesNone
CIAC Approves Winter Sports Plan, Including Postseason Experience As Was Held In Fall The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) Board of Control, on January 14, approved a winter sports plan such that practices may begin as early as January 19. Games may start no sooner than February 8, a week later than initially proposed.The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) Board of Control, on January 14, approved a winter sports plan such that practices may begin as early as January 19. Games may start no sooner than February 8, a week later than initially proposed.A postseason experience in all sports will be allowed from March 15-28. Those experiences will be championships at the league level. In order to maximize the number of game opportunities for all schools, no CIAC state championship tournaments will be held in the winter sports season. This is what occurred in the fall, with teams playing league/conference tournaments.Indoor track teams will be limited to practice with indoor/outdoor meets considered no earlier than March.For more details about the winter sports plan, including which sports classified as "high risk" sports will not be held as well as numbers of games and new regulations associated with coronavirus protocol, check the January 15 print edition of The Bee.CIAC Approves Winter Sports Andy Hutchison
Story CIAC Approves Winter Sports Plan, Including Postseason Experience As Was Held In FallCIAC Approves Winter SportsSportsNone
The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) Board of Control, on January 14, approved a winter sports plan such that practices may begin as early as January 19. Games may start no sooner than February 8, a week later than initially proposed.
Winter Sports May Begin With Practices January 19, Games Starting February 1 Connecticut’s high school winter sports season for most teams seems destined to get going with practices beginning January 19 and games commencing as early as February 1.Connecticut’s high school winter sports season for most teams seems destined to get going with practices beginning January 19 and games commencing as early as February 1.A January 8 letter from the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) to the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) details DPH’s recommendation that the CIAC consider following a schedule allowing for practices and games to get going on those aforementioned dates based on the current state of the coronavirus pandemic and DPH’s expectations for the coming weeks.The CIAC is set to make a final decision at its Thursday meeting.A winter season may include as many as a dozen regular-season games for each team and March state tournament action. Last year’s winter campaign was cut short partway through the state playoffs in March.For more extensive coverage, including details about which sports are still on hold and some of the coronavirus impact regulations being considered, see the January 15 print edition of The Bee. Please check back for updates.WEB Only CIAC winter sports Andy Hutchison
Story Winter Sports May Begin With Practices January 19, Games Starting February 1WEB Only CIAC winter sportsFeatured Slider, SportsNone
Gyms And Athletes Have Adapted To Changes Resulting From Coronavirus As the world closely approaches almost a full year of dealing with the coronavirus, many aspects of everyday life have continued to be different and challenging. Takeout dinners, drive-through testing, and grocery deliveries have all come about as businesses do their best to accommodate for health guidelines and procedures.As the world closely approaches almost a full year of dealing with the coronavirus, many aspects of everyday life have continued to be different and challenging. Takeout dinners, drive-through testing, and grocery deliveries have all come about as businesses do their best to accommodate for health guidelines and procedures.Gyms around the country have had their share of changes, too, having had to deal with indefinite closures, eventually reopening, and facing ever-evolving rules since March of 2020. In Newtown, trainers and staff at Joanne’s Fitness Studio, NYA Sports & Fitness, CrossFit Hook’d, and CrossFit RedZone have been working tirelessly to ensure that their doors remain open and their members stay safe.On March 16, in the early stages of the pandemic, gyms in Connecticut were mandated to close their doors, with no indication of when they would be allowed to reopen. Joanne’s Fitness Studio, CrossFit RedZone, and CrossFit Hook’d moved to online training in order to maintain business and keep their members fit and active.“When the orders came down that we had to close our doors and having no idea for how long, we immediately took our services to a totally online format. We provided our clients with online streaming classes, loaned out equipment to our members, and sent out daily newsletters that contained various other workouts,” Kurt Kling, co-owner of RedZone Athletics, home of CrossFit RedZone, said.Joanne Lockwood, owner and personal fitness trainer at her studio, allowed customers to borrow equipment at home for her virtual classes.The abrupt closure took a toll on all of these businesses, as members could not have the full in-person experience that they had been used to. For the gym owners, it was a very challenging time.“The gym for me is my 100 percent livelihood and how I live. It’s my personal business, so being closed was really tough because we saw a dip in our revenue, in our membership, and in our growth as a business,” owner of CrossFit Hook’d Ryan Berger said.Even though gym-goers were not able to workout in classes together, most members still felt that they were an active part of their gym community as a result of the new online portion.Some of the online features for Joanne’s Fitness Studio, as well as the CrossFit gyms, included workout classes over Zoom with the trainers. On top of this, gyms utilized social media as a source of community outreach.“Hook’d was a great resource because they offered at-home workouts each day that we were able to complete using standard equipment that most people have at home,” CrossFit Hook’d member Brynn Reilly said.By early summer, new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines permitted gyms to resume in-person classes and workouts, and each of Newtown’s gyms reopened by July 1. Of course, measures were taken for the safety of the athletes and trainers, including social distancing inside the gym as well as class sizes limited to ten people or fewer. Athletes were also required to have a 100-square-foot space to themselves, sanitize before and after class, and wipe down all equipment after use.Lockwood said some clients have come back to the studio since its reopening and some have preferred to work out virtually. In-person class sizes have been reduced from eight or ten to just four to allow for proper spacing, and all workout clients have their temperatures checked at the door upon entry, Lockwood said. She stays fit in the process of teaching classes, going back and forth between virtual classes on the computer and those inside the studio.“It’s been challenging, which I’m sure everybody is saying no matter what profession they’re in,” Lockwood said. “I’ve had to be creative. My clients are very supportive and encouraging. I’m very fortunate to have the clientele I work with.”Most of those who attend Lockwood’s fitness studio are between the ages of 50 and 80-plus. She said the regulation to wear a mask during workouts can be especially tough on anybody with a touch of asthma or other breathing condition, and has led her to scale back the cardiovascular tempo during workouts.Similarly to the CrossFit gyms and Joanne’s studio, NYA also made changes to provide a safe space for people to work out. Since many Newtown High School athletes and students utilize the NYA’s services to stay fit, the NYA reopening became a great resource for children and adults who had been stuck at home.“I appreciate it so much that the NYA is open — keeps my mind off things, good to keep busy, and obviously good for you. The workout experiences changed at the NYA because after you’re done with every machine or weight, you have to completely wipe it down. Other than that, nothing else has really changed other than the fact that there is a limit about how many people can be in the building at once,” NHS junior Peter Taweh said.In addition to regular members, CrossFit Hook’d hosted some of the Newtown High School football team, as well as youth athletes who had missed their seasons during lockdown over the summer months.With high school athletics back on hold after a shortened fall campaign, and school weight rooms closed, the CrossFit gyms and NYA have also been heavily populated by student-athletes who are not able to play their sports. The trainers and coaches have accommodated these athletes by keeping them in shape and motivated while they wait for important decisions on the states of their seasons.“It allowed them to stay healthy and fit because they weren’t doing their practices, they were doing a lot of sedentary lifestyle type things, sitting at home and on the computer for school, so they weren’t really exercising because they didn’t have gym class. So I thought that was an important piece of the puzzle, especially for youth kids that didn’t have any sports going on in the spring or in the summer or even in the fall because of all of the cancellations,” Berger said.Since June, evolving CDC guidelines have required all gym attendees to wear masks indoors, while all other regulations remain the same. Although COVID has altered the overall gym experience, trainers and members are very pleased to still have these resources available to them during this time.“Everyone here at RedZone Athletics has been cooperative, understanding, and most importantly, safe. Between our daily staff screenings, increased cleaning, and sanitizing protocols, our members and staff are extremely grateful to be able to continue to improve their health in a safe environment,” Kling said.Lockwood noted that people were thrilled to come back and see faces —albeit masked — outside the house, and have the opportunity to socialize and have a sense of camaraderie again while improving fitness levels.As of now, gyms in Connecticut remain open under CDC guidelines as there have been no recent indications of another lockdown. For gym owners and members, this allows for healthy lifestyles within a gym community. Gyms Adjust To Circumstances Shea Murphy And Andy Hutchison
Story Gyms And Athletes Have Adapted To Changes Resulting From CoronavirusGyms Adjust To CircumstancesFeatured Slider, SportsNone
Plenty Of Memorable Moments, Records, Championships Despite Impact Of Coronavirus When the gymnasium lights went off at halftime of the Newtown High School girls’ basketball team’s South-West Conference tournament quarterfinal game with visiting New Milford on February 21 — resulting from a fire to a transformer in town — the game had to be resumed the next day, at a different site, at NYA Sports & Fitness. It was, at the time, a strange occurrence in an otherwise pretty standard year in Newtown sports, one filled with championships and record-setting performances.When the gymnasium lights went off at halftime of the Newtown High School girls’ basketball team’s South-West Conference tournament quarterfinal game with visiting New Milford on February 21 — resulting from a fire to a transformer in town — the game had to be resumed the next day, at a different site, at NYA Sports & Fitness. It was, at the time, a strange occurrence in an otherwise pretty standard year in Newtown sports, one filled with championships and record-setting performances.Little did we all know that so many sports would go dark in the months that followed.The impact of the coronavirus on Newtown’s teams has been significant. It wiped out some winter sports tournaments in the middle of March and all of the spring sports slate, halted activity throughout much of the summer, delayed the start of and truncated fall sports, then delayed the start of the 2020-21 winter slate. The winter season is tentatively set to start later in January, but not many would be surprised if things are pushed off until spring — at the earliest.No question, 2020 has been a sports year to forget in some ways.But it has been one to remember for so many youth, high school, collegiate, and adult athletes here in town. Newtown’s sports enthusiasts certainly have made the most of the opportunities under these bizarre circumstances.Ultimately, there was no traditional 11-versus-11 football season, but the Nighthawk gridders got to play 7-on-7 touch football with lineman challenges between quarters of contests.Road races could not be held due to social distancing protocol, but the Rooster Run and Turkey Trot went on with virtual races. Participants got to pick their own courses and submit times to keep these traditions alive.Before COVID hit last winter, and again before the second wave this fall, there were plenty of accomplishments on the fields, as well as on the tracks, at the ice rinks, and in the gymnasiums, and pools.*The youth basketball program celebrated its 50th anniversary season during the 2019-20 season, honoring its past players, coaches, and league directors along the way.*Although football was the most significantly impacted fall sport, things started well for the Nighthawks in 2020 with coach Bobby Pattison recognized as the Connecticut Sports Writers Alliance Coach of the Year, and Pattison and player Ben Pinto receiving Walter Camp recognition. Additionally, football team members Luke Hannan and Nick Sabilion won divisions in the Nutmeg Weightlifting Competition. The NHS team was recognized as The Newtown Bee Sports Team of the Year last winter, following its 2019 run to the state championship.*Newtown High’s cheerleading and dance teams both captured conference and state championships, and it was the first state crown for the cheer program, just before the virus halted postseason play, thwarting the girls’ basketball team’s state playoff run. The cagers did not lose in the state playoffs, but had their title hopes stymied upon reaching the semifinal round.*The NHS wrestling team placed second at the SWC championships, led by a weight division triumph by Steven Vournazos.*Fall sports got underway in October, following a gradual increase from small cohort training to full-team competitions. Players and coaches were required to wear masks along sidelines, and volleyball players had to wear masks during practices and match play since they play an indoor sport. Girls’ swimming took place with teams competing only in their home pools and combining times and scores with opponents to determine meet winners.*Fall championships: The girls’ volleyball and boys’ soccer team teams both went unbeaten and won SWC North Division titles. Football went unbeaten, but there was no playoff. Girls’ soccer advanced to the SWC North championship game before falling to New Milford. Field hockey had a stellar fall, losing only once in the regular slate. The girls’ swimming and diving team placed second in the SWC meet.*Several track and field and swimming records were set during meets last winter and this fall.*NHS hockey goaltender Markus Paltauf broke his own single-season saves record.*The Jacobs siblings — skiers Nick, Andrew, Matt, and Lauren — represented Team Connecticut in the annual High School Alpine Regional Championships at Cannon-Mittersill Mountain in New Hampshire.*Field hockey player Katie Goyda set school records for goals, assists, and points.*Among the notable games last winter: The boys’ basketball team beat Torrington 78-73 in double overtime; the boys hit 11 3-pointers in a 69-46 win over Pomperaug of Southbury, and the girls used a 26-0 run to build a commanding lead before holding off Bethel, 53-37.*In youth sports, for the second year in a row, the Newtown Youth Wrestling Association’s Elementary and Middle School squads captured Western Connecticut League championships; the youth program sent 37 grapplers to the state championships, the most in the 15-year history of the program. The sixth grade girls’ and sixth grade boys’ Blue and Gold basketball teams all won New Castle Martin Luther King Jr Basketball Tournaments. The Newtown Torpedoes swim team went unbeaten and claimed a division title.*Newtown’s Maddie Patrick scored her 1,000th career point for the Waterbury-based Chase Collegiate School basketball team on February 6.*Runners and triathletes did their thing virtually. Nick Waaler completed an Iron Man around Newtown and Monroe to support the CMAK Foundation on September 5.*Fore! Jimmy Davies hit a hole in one at Ridgefield Golf Course on October 21.*New head coaches who took over this past fall were Ellen Goyda (field hockey) and Ryan Lyddy (boys’ soccer).*College athletes made their marks. Marcus Tracy, a former NHS soccer standout, was inducted into the Wake Forest Hall of Fame. Lacrosse player Mark Urso earned conference honors as Men’s Lacrosse Specialist of the Week for his faceoff abilities at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the spring. Swimmer David Lawrence set individual and relay records at Western Connecticut State University during mid-February meets. Carly Swierbut was part of a relay team that set a school record, and also broke multiple freshman records for the College of William & Mary women’s track team.Whenever sports contests pick back up in 2021, there are sure to be more achievements of note. See you at the games — eventually.Sports Year In Review Andy Hutchison
Story Plenty Of Memorable Moments, Records, Championships Despite Impact Of CoronavirusSports Year In ReviewFeatured Slider, SportsNone
Holiday Contest At Local Horse Stables Displays Creativity On Poverty Hollow Road
Three barns that are part of the RedGate Farm came together for a fun and friendly Holiday Decorating Contest that took place on Saturday, December 19.Take a drive down Poverty Hollow Road and you will see an expansive farm with white paddock fencing, classical horse barns, an indoor ring, and a jumping field. This is RedGate Farm, the home of three horse-related businesses. Each enterprise manages its own barn and shares the communal facilities at 50 Poverty Hollow Road. Even though the three barns are all independent businesses, they came together for a fun and friendly Holiday Decorating Contest that took place on Saturday, December 19, in the late afternoon.Needless to say, this was an outdoor event and everyone stood at safe distances and wore masks. First Selectman Dan Rosenthal agreed to judge the final results. Members of each barn were invited to view the decorations, sip some hot chocolate, and socialize. All the buildings are finished in natural cedar shingles with hunter green trim, and provided a perfect backdrop for the decorations.Rose Piro runs EQM Stables, where she has 12 to 15 horses at any one time. EQM Stables is a full-service boarding and European equine training facility. Rose specializes in two breeds: Andalusians and Friesians. Both these breeds are absolutely gorgeous. The Andalusian is a Spanish horse, usually gray but not always, with a long, thick mane and tail. Their athleticism and intelligence lend themselves well to jumping and equitation. Friesians are originally from the Netherlands and are almost always coal black with no white markings and have long, thick, wavy manes and tails. They are powerful yet nimble. Rose trains riders in all disciplines, including jumping and dressage. She also buys and sells these breeds. Rose is from Germany and has a master’s degree in equine studies.EQM Stables went for a simple and elegant decorating theme, perhaps to match the elegance of her Andalusians and Friesians. Fresh greenery surrounded the doorway and was topped by a large wreath. Sparkly white lights and red bows highlighted the greenery. The loft door was open to reveal a grand Christmas tree, also bedecked with white lights. She adorned her prize Andalusian stallion, a gray named Estrollon, with a green blanket, red bows, and lights peeking out from under his mane. Santa Claus, who has quite a bit of experience with reindeer, happily agreed to lead Estrollon around to say hi to the attendees.Sea Horse Stables is owned by Kristen Abbatiello and has been at the Poverty Hollow location for 12 years. Approximately 25 horses make their home at Sea Horse. The facility is a mix of client horses and horses for sale. It is a competitive show barn whose members regularly attend shows. Kristen provides training to the competitors and has a developing riders program for young people looking to enter the show circuit. Local veterinarian Dr Bonnie Ascher-Nette, who trains at Sea Horse, claimed a Reserve Champion title at the National Horse Show in Lexington, Ky., this year, riding her bay gelding, Denver.Sea Horse Stables decided to honor their horses by hanging one stocking for each horse at the barn from the main lintel over the front doors. The doors themselves sported matching gold-painted English saddles and a large wreath. A nearby Christmas tree was decorated with show ribbons won by the competitors at Sea Horse Stables, another tribute to the hard-working horses. As the sun set, Santa appeared in the hay loft door and waved to the attendees. The horses inside swore they heard the hoofbeats of eight tiny reindeer. The stable also set out boxes to collect donations for local organizations including Toys for Tots, FAITH Food Pantry, Pitstop (animal rescue), and HORSE of Connecticut.The third barn is One Above Farm, owned by Andrea Zaleski. This is a lesson-to-show-ring barn that provides boarding, lessons, summer camp, and the opportunity to be part of a competitive IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association) Team. She welcomes children of all ages. Andrea’s Summer Riding Academy is very popular, and each week it focuses on a different theme.One Above Farm decorated their main doorway with swags of greenery from which ornaments had been fashioned from red bandanas and twine for a horse-friendly, relaxed look. A large wreath decorated with red berries and pine cones hung on the door next to a red painted “JOY” sign.Dan Rosenthal and his wife, Meri, enjoyed all the decorations very much and appreciated the effort that went into the final results. Sea Horse Stables won the first prize based on their imaginative decorations and because they included a way to make donations to the needy. Everyone enjoyed the overall spirit of friendship and mutual love of horses.Tracy Van Buskirk is a 35-year resident of Newtown and a board member of the Newtown Bridle Lands Association, www.nblact.com, a nonprofit volunteer organization formed in 1978 to foster an interest in horseback riding as well as preserve, protect, and maintain riding and hiking trails in the community. Horses have always been a part of her life. She owns a small bay quarter horse named Little Bear.Holiday Contest At Local Horse Stables Tracy Van Buskirk
Story Holiday Contest At Local Horse Stables Displays Creativity On Poverty Hollow RoadHoliday Contest At Local Horse StablesFeatured Slider, Features, SportsNone
C.H. Booth Library (second floor, near circulation desk), 25 Main Street
Sale of mint condition books in popular fiction series, non-fiction, activity books, puzzles, games and DVDs, for children and young adult readers, presented by Friends of Booth Library, continues to January 30; 203-426-4533.
NOTE: Due to continued COVID-19 concerns, meetings are being conducted remotely. Click through the agenda below for participation information; this meeting has livestream and call-in options for the public.
NOTE: Due to continued COVID-19 concerns, meetings are being conducted remotely. Click through the agenda once posted below for participation information.
As I understand it, they would be allowed to have a single building that is completely residential, as long as they also do commercial somewhere else. Or they could put 160 apartments in a building and a single little office and that office would be “commercial” and qualify. Definitely attend. We are only at this point due to a misleading question on the November ballot.
My comments are apolitical. My point is that CT is not run well, regardless of the name of the party in office. It is underperforming almost all other states in the union with respect to the economy. People are not leaving just to retire. They're leaving to find jobs and that is a major concern for the future of the state.
I reiterate, MA and NY are generally run by Democrats. If CT people are fleeing CT for these states, then it is obvious that being run by Democrats is not the problem.
From the Hartford Business Journal.
The large number of people moving to high-tax states likely indicates people are chasing new job opportunities, among other potential reasons.
However, it should be noted that Connecticut used to be a tax haven back in the 1980s, before the state enacted its income tax, with people and companies moving here from high-tax states like New York.
That competitive advantage has been eroded over the last few decades, making it less painful for tax-conscious citizens to cross the border into a higher-tax state like New York.
Why are the jobs in NY and MA? Look at the profile of existing corporations that are there and the startup environment that those states promote. Why have some major employers left CT?
