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Updated Infrastructure As Edmond Town Hall Reopens; Movies In July

Updated Infrastructure As Edmond Town Hall Reopens; Movies In July New theatrical lights and equipment to support live performances have been installed at Edmond Town Hall Theatre (ETH), 45 Main Street, and have already been put to use during dance recitals for Lori’s Center Stage Dance Studio and Danceline Bethel.This capital improvement project, completed during the pandemic closure, involved the installation of modern LED Chauvet theatrical lights and the acquisition of a new lighting board. The updated infrastructure will support events such as the 2021 Colonial Subaru Music Series, which will bring five bands to ETH, as well as other live events. The lighting project came on the heels of the 2019 installation of electrified trusses, new curtains, and other equipment that will support live events. The ETH technical systems package can be viewed at edmondtownhall.org/wp-content/uploads/edmond-town-hall-theatre-technical-systems-package-2apr2021fin.pdf.Dance Recitals ReturnEdmond Town Hall will host dance recitals for the following dance schools:*Lathrop School of Dance (see related story in this week’s Enjoy section);*Newtown Centre for Classical Ballet and Voice;*Lisa Mennilli Dance;*Sabrina’s Enterprise Productions;*Academy of Dance Arts;*Seven Stars School of Performing Arts;*Danbury Dynamic Dance and Fitness;*Just Dance School of Performing Arts; and*Danceline Bethel.Movies, Rental SpaceStarting in July, indoor theater movies will begin, following a new schedule.Movies will run from Friday to Sunday (unless the theater is otherwise rented), with senior matinees moving to Fridays at 1 pm. For movie listings, visit edmondtownhall.org/movies.Edmond Town Hall offers spaces to host a meeting, party, or corporate event. The Alexandria Room, on the building’s second floor, boasts a commercial kitchen.Upcoming EventsJune 28, Casey Carle BubblemaniaAugust 20, Stone Cold and the Jackal ShowOctober 3, Tom GreenOctober 10, Imagination MoversColonial Subaru Music Series PresentsSeptember 17, Destination MotownOctober 9, Best of the EaglesNovember 6, A Brother’s RevivalDecember 3, Sir PaulFor details and ticket information for all events, visit edmondtownhall.org/events/category/upcoming-events.

Edmond Town Hall Theatre Comes Back Story Updated Infrastructure As Edmond Town Hall Reopens; Movies In July Edmond Town Hall Theatre Comes Back Cultural Events, News None

News

Fire Reports | June 3-9, 2021

Fire Reports | June 3-9, 2021 Fire calls and their responders in Newtown, Conn., for the period of June 3 to June 9, 2021. The dispatchers at the Newtown Emergency Communications Center, at 191 South Main Street, report the following fire calls and the responders:Thursday, June 3: 12:09 pm, diesel fuel spill, Hattertown Road, Dodgingtown responded; 12:59 pm, motor vehicle accident (MVA) with injury, Mount Pleasant Road, Hawleyville responded; 1:13 pm, fire alarm–commercial, Brookside Court, Hawleyville responded; 3:07 pm, fire alarm–commercial, Ridge Road, Hook & Ladder and Dodgingtown responded; 3:26 pm, fire alarm–residential, Canterbury Lane, Sandy Hook and Botsford responded.Friday, June 4: 12:31 pm, tree/wires down, Queen Street, Hook & Ladder responded; 5:08 pm, MVA with injury, Toddy Hill Road/Settlers Lane, Botsford responded; 5:40 pm, fire alarm–residential, Appleblossom Lane, Hook & Ladder and Botsford responded; 6:03 pm, fire alarm–residential, Robin Hill Road, Dodgingtown responded; 11:09 pm, MVA with injury, I-84 East between Exits 11-13, Sandy Hook responded.Saturday, June 5: 2:31 pm, medical assist, Taunton Ridge Road, Hawleyville responded; 7:54 pm, appliance malfunction, Whitewood Road, Hook & Ladder and Hawleyville responded.Sunday, June 6: 3:55 am, medical assist, Saint George Place, Sandy Hook responded; 12:36 pm, gas leak, Old Purdy Station Road, Dodgingtown responded; 12:38 pm, fire alarm–residential, Merlins Lane, Dodgingtown and Hook & Ladder responded; 5:06 pm, medical assist, Serene Way, Dodgingtown responded; 8:03 pm, CO alarm, Echo Valley Road, Hook & Ladder responded; 11:23 pm, medical assist, Dinglebrook Lane, Hook & Ladder responded.Monday, June 7: 10:40 am, medical assist, White Oak Farm Road, Botsford responded; 1:48 pm, CO alarm, Cider Mill Road, Sandy Hook and Botsford responded; 2:55 pm, medical assist, Toddy Hill Road, Botsford responded; 8:18 pm, gas leak, Arthurs Court, Dodgingtown responded; 9:55 pm, tree/wires down, Nelson Lane, Hawleyville responded.Tuesday, June 8: 8:30 am, I-84 West between Exits 10-9, MVA with injury, Hook & Ladder and Sandy Hook responded; 2:55 pm, tree/wires down, Barnabas Road/Tunnel Road, Hawleyville responded; 3:49 pm, medical assist, Mount Pleasant Road, Hawleyville responded; 4:25 pm, MVA with injury, Toddy Hill Road, Botsford responded; 5:45 pm, fire alarm–commercial, Pecks Lane, Botsford and Hook & Ladder responded; 8:03 pm, medical assist, Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder responded.Wednesday, June 9: 6:40 am, tree/wires down, Serenity Lane, Sandy Hook responded; 3:39 pm, fire alarm–residential, Poverty Hollow Road, Dodgingtown and Hook & Ladder responded; 5:45 pm, MVA with injury, I-84 East between Exits 10-11, Sandy Hook responded; 8:37 pm, water rescue, West Street, New Milford, NUSAR responded.

Fire Reports | June 3-9, 2021 Story Fire Reports | June 3-9, 2021 Fire Reports | June 3-9, 2021 News None

Education

Selectmen Hear About Parks, NCC Grants, Planned Activities

Selectmen Hear About Parks, NCC Grants, Planned Activities The Board of Selectmen learned that the Newtown Parks & Recreation Department and the Newtown Community Center both qualified for the maximum amount of grants to fund a summer enrichment program that will also welcome youths from neighboring towns to participate.Parks & Recreation Director Amy Mangold joined Community Center Director Matt Ariniello during the selectmen’s regular June 7 meeting to share the news.“We both applied for the State Department of Education Summer Enrichment Program grants separately,” Mangold said, adding that separate applications were required for each site that is able to offer a venue for applicable programs. “There were 210 applicants, and Dickinson Park and the Community Center were both awarded a $25,000 grant each — so we were both awarded the full amount.”Mangold said the grants will not only facilitate expansion of available programs, especially to those unable to afford such activities, but in view of other neighboring communities, including Danbury, not offering or curtailing aspects of their summer programs, Newtown may be able to host youths from those underserved municipalities.“I’m trying to reach out and coordinate with other communities’ students who may need enrichment,” she said. “There are 40,000 students across the region being affected by the grants, so we’re really happy to be a part of that.”Mangold said hands-on learning experiences that are fun and engaging for young people are always a part of Newtown’s summer programming. She circulated a document with proposed activities and related expenses that include Hobby Quest days entitled “Airplane Engineers,” where handmade aircraft are designed and built, reinforcing STEM skills, as well as a literary program partnering with the C.H. Booth Library for those in grades K-6.There is also a planned “Day Rock Workshop” where attendees experiment with and learn to play various musical instruments; an introduction to rocketry; and workshops on how to create and perform magic with attendees presenting their skills at a live showcase.Groups of attendees will also be able to attend day trips to Quassy Amusement Park and beach in neighboring Middlebury.“They often don’t realize they are learning while they are participating,” Mangold said. “I’m really excited to partner with the library.”She said library staff will come in one day a week with a teacher-led interactive reading program, a comprehension-building response to the text through movement or drawing, independent reading time, and a writing response opportunity for the student to reflect on their reading experience.Mangold said she will allocate $3,000 to bring in a social worker skilled in providing emotional support to attendees who may need it.NCC Summer PlanAriniello said the NCC grant will allow greater partnership with the school district and Newtown Continuing Education to provide a full realm of support in view of all the in-school time that was lost.The NCC will also be able to offer a full-day option of enrichment and activities, as well as extended before and after care.He said 45 youths are currently registered for the summer school supplemental program and 12 are on a waiting list — and the program will be offering more than two dozen scholarships.Ariniello said the NCC also just learned of three additional grants: $7,500 to provide the “Race for Chase” program; $5,000 from the United Way for after-school programming; and $5,000 from the Stew Leonard philanthropic foundation for swimming lessons at the center.Selectmen added that approval to their agenda and swiftly approved accepting those added funds. Ariniello said the United Way may also be providing added funds for further COVID-related expenses, and he would update the board if and when those funds are awarded.Reporting on other matters, Ariniello proclaimed, “We have weathered the storm of COVID-19, I’m happy to say,” adding that 2021 will be the first full summer of activities since the center opened in July of 2019.He thanked and recognized his staff for all their hard work. “We learned a lot about virtual learning, and we’ve continued expanding after-school learning.”Recovering Lost RevenuesHe then ran through a list of other activities responding to or related to the pandemic, including hosting vaccine clinics. On the down side, the pandemic caused the NCC to lose more than 35% of its overall membership in 2020.“Membership is now continuing to increase,” he said, with the continuation of an “all access pass” program to both the NCC and the pool and beach facilities maintained by Parks & Rec. “The largest increases you will see are in monthly family memberships.”Ariniello said program numbers continue to rise, with more than 796 applicants for summer programs versus 256 last summer, bringing more than $400,000 in added revenue for the 2020-21 fiscal cycle. That membership response is putting the NCC on track for reporting over $1 million in revenue for its first full year of operations.He said the allowance for members to freeze their memberships for up to four months was a big help in sustaining standing members’ participation.The NCC director also touted a new cross-platform reservation system that will work for both Apple and Android users, permitting those making reservations to secure them before the facility opens, if needed. He is also researching how to successfully administer a guest and day pass system, and wants to have it up and running by July 1.He said a membership survey is in the works, so members and residents can look out for that and participate to help the center plan for next year. Additionally, a $200,000 patio project is already on the drawing board, and he expects once completed it will greatly enhance revenues.Capital improvements included a rubberized splash pad service and plans for exterior improvements on and adjacent to the rear deck area. Ariniello said solar panels that have been installed are beginning to offset energy costs, and a three-day shutdown is planned in late summer for preventative maintenance.In closing, Ariniello said some virtual programming will continue for those more comfortable participating from home.First Selectman Dan Rosenthal expressed gratitude to both Ariniello and Mangold for persevering and continuing to be as creative as possible in serving the community through the pandemic.“I’m happy to see it’s off to the races for everybody,” the first selectman said.Associate Editor John Voket can be reached at john@thebee.com.

Selectmen Hear About Parks, NCC Grants, Planned Activities John Voket Story Selectmen Hear About Parks, NCC Grants, Planned Activities Selectmen Hear About Parks, NCC Grants, Planned Activities Education, Featured Slider, News None

News

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off In Bethel, June 12

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off In Bethel, June 12 Bethel High School will be the host site for a household hazardous waste drop-off event, Saturday. A household hazardous waste drop-off event will take place Saturday, June 12, from 9 am to 1 pm, at Bethel High School, 300 Whittlesey Drive, Bethel.Residents of Newtown may bring accepted items to this event, as can residents of Bethel, Brookfield, Bridgewater, Danbury, Kent, New Fairfield, New Milford, Redding, Ridgefield, Sherman, and Weston.You must remain in your vehicle at all times and keep windows rolled up. Items you want removed should be placed at the back of your vehicle. Workers will remove the items. Place driver’s license against window for proof of residency.Items that are accepted include paints, stains, and varnishes; furniture and floor polishes; rug and upholstery cleaners; flea powder; moth balls; dry cleaning solvents; lighter fluids; engine degreasers; waste fuels; and airplane glue.Motor oils and antifreeze; empty aerosol cans; smoke detectors; controlled substances; pharmaceutical or medical wastes, and electronic are among the items that will not be accepted.A full list of accepted/unaccepted items can be found at hrra.org.

Hazardous Waste drop off in Bethel Story Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off In Bethel, June 12 Hazardous Waste drop off in Bethel News None

Features

In Case You Missed It, Here Is What Posted Over The Weekend

Here is a list of stories that posted to newtownbee.com over the weekend.

Features

Plein Air Painters To Share ‘Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty’ At Historic Main Street Property

Plein Air Painters To Share ‘Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty’ At Historic Main Street Property The Connecticut Plein Air Painters Society is planning “Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty,” a two-day art show and sale June 18-19 at a historic Main Street property.The Connecticut Plein Air Painters Society (CPAPS) is planning “Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty,” a two-day art show and sale planned in and around the barn behind the Budd House at 50 Main Street.The exhibition will be presented Friday, June 18, from 1 to 5 pm, and Saturday, June 19, from noon to 4 pm.CPAPS is a nonprofit organization of artists who gather regularly for paint-outs throughout the state. The group was founded in 1995 by four artists. A quarter of a century later, the group now has more than 100 members from Connecticut and surrounding states.“It’s a great group, it’s wonderful,” CPAPS President Linda Marino said on June 4. “We have artists that range from beginners, who just want to get out and learn how to paint, to nationally known artists that are out in competitions throughout the United States.”Twelve plein air painters will be participating in the show located in the historic barn behind the Budd House, opposite Edmond Town Hall. Free parking will be available on the street and behind the former town hall building.Chuck Fulkerson of Newtown will be among those showing and creating new works, according to Marino. In addition to Marino, the local artist will be joined by Elizabeth Agresta of Cos Cob, Doug Anderson of Simsbury, Sarah Baskin of Colchester, Ellie Boyd of Southbury, Lorraine Chapin of Southbury, Diane Dubreil of New Milford, John Forgione of Easton, Ival Stratford Kovner of Bethel, Mark LaRiviere of Port Chester, Jen O’Brien of New Fairfield, and Jane Zisk of Wethersfield.The upcoming show was serendipitous in its creation.As Marino recalled last week, CPAPS had members had decided to gather in Newtown earlier this year for their first paint-out of the year.“We were walking around town — it was a very cold day,” she said, “and we were trying to decide on a place to paint.“We were walking down East Street, and everybody was fascinated by the forsythia, and the magnolias, and this beautiful house with all this artistic detail on it, and its barn,” she said. They decided that would be the place to paint that day.As the artists were beginning to pack up, Shane Miller emerged from the historic house she and her husband have owned for years. Miller was taking her dog for a walk, and stopped to speak with the artists.“She started talking with us, and then she invited us to tour the barn,” Marino recalled. “It’s beautiful. It’s got the whitewall paneling in it, and she had some photographs on the walls.“She invited us to come in and do a one- or two-day show,” Marino said. “It just fell right into place.”En plein air is a French expression that means “in the open air.” It is used by artists to describe the art of outdoor painting, capturing the landscape and natural light.“The biggest difference to being outside is you are engaging all your senses,” Marino said. “You smell the flowers, or you smell the mulch, or whatever is out there. You hear the birds, and you feel the weather, which you can’t really get from a photograph. You’ll never get that effect from a photograph.”The added challenge to working en plein air, she said, is the light.“The sun is always changing,” she explained. “On an overcast day, you’ll get the sun in and out of clouds.“Sometimes it is only a two- or three-hour window because the light will totally shift on you, and the shadows will shift. The colors change dramatically through the day too, from morning to the golden hours.”If she has not completed a plein air piece before packing up, Marino will occasionally finish from a photo.“Sometimes I will go back in my studio and I’ll finish it there if I think I can,” she said. “Sometimes I’ll go back to the same spot, trying to catch the same light, but you can never really capture the exact scene again.”Her medium of choice is mostly oils, she said, but she also works in acrylics.It was the invention of the collapsible metal paint tube, in 1841 by the American artist John Goffe Rand, making oil paints transportable for artists, that led to the growth of plein air painting. Artists such as Manet, Renoir, Pissarro, and Monet — the French Impressionists — headed outdoors with their paints and easels to capture and record the effects of light in nature.The Budd House (aka the Glover House) was built in 1869. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.The public is invited to enjoy an afternoon perusing the backyard barn with beautiful local scenes created in oils, acrylics, and watercolors. Guests will also be able to watch artists create new works on site. There is no charge to attend and view the exhibition.All artwork will be for sale and can be purchased directly from each artist. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local charity. Marino said on June 4 that the decision had not yet been made concerning which group will benefit.“We told Shane, after her kind invitation to host us for the exhibition, that we would be happy to do a donation to the charity of her choice,” Marino said.For additional information, contact Marino at linda@cpaps.org. More information about CPAPS can be found at cpaps.org.=====Associate Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.

Capturing CT's Beauty to be presented at Budd House, June 18-19 Shannon Hicks Story Plein Air Painters To Share ‘Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty’ At Historic Main Street Property Capturing CT's Beauty to be presented at Budd House, June 18-19 Featured Slider, Features None

Cultural Events

Lathrop Students Perform Another Broadway-Caliber Revue

Lathrop Students Perform Another Broadway-Caliber Revue Lathrop School of Dance students and staff offered two brilliant performances of the dance studio's 69th Stardust Revue last weekend. The lights on Broadway are to shine again this September.Newtown families were fortunate to not have wait that long, thanks to the talented students and staff of Lathrop School of Dance (LSOD), who had lights and curtains up last weekend at Edmond Town Hall.Performers of all ages showcased their talents in two shows on Saturday, June 5, when they presented the 69th Stardust Revue.“Miss Tamra” Saric, owner and director of LSOD, has worked tirelessly with her dance staff this past school year. All continued to perfect the process of teaching dance routines by Zoom, moving to socially distanced spacing in a parking lot (hoping for good weather), getting back into the gymnasium, graduating to the studio and then showtime on stage. It was a long journey, but well worth it.Graduating dancers opened the show with “Stardust,” an annual tribute to seniors, and then there was no stopping the toe-tapping by the audience.The curtains opened to an effervescent jazz dance routine featuring three classes, prepping the viewers for “The Greatest Show.” Dancers did not disappoint throughout from the baby Sweethearts to the Stardusters.Varied styles of jazz, ballet, tap, and hip hop showcased the flair of the dancers, featuring routines choreographed by LSOD’s dance teachers — a tribute to their talent as well.LSOD also celebrated milestones last weekend, with dancing diva Mary Edgerton and Starduster and teacher “Miss Megan” Lamontagne tapping for 25 years. For both, the beat goes on!Master of Ceremonies Bill Caron, aka Mr Colby, said it best at the podium: Miss Tamra has been the glue holding LSOD together these past couple of years.Continuing to build on a solid foundation, Miss Tamra’s accomplishments have brought continued success to the dance school, and with her adaptability and resourcefulness, among so many other assets, LSOD’s legacy is alive and thriving.Following an abbreviated finale, Miss Tamra was joined by her husband, Marco, and 2-year-old daughter, Mila, on stage. She acknowledged her talented instructing staff who continue to help make this show happen, as well as the behind-the-scenes “Lathrop family” members who do their jobs so the audiences always see “the best show ever.”It was indeed a nice prequel to Broadway.

Lathrop School of Dance Stardust Revue and Rehearsals Sherri Smith Baggett Story Lathrop Students PerformAnother Broadway-Caliber Revue Lathrop School of Dance Stardust Revue and Rehearsals Featured Slider None

Cultural Events

Newtown Farmers Market Announces Vendors, Soft Open June 15

Newtown Farmers Market Announces Vendors, Soft Open June 15 The vendors who will participate in this year’s Newtown Farmers Market — set to have a soft open this Tuesday, June 15 — have been announced. The vendors who will participate in this year’s Newtown Farmers Market — set to have a soft open this Tuesday, June 15 — have been announced.Natalie McCraigh of Wonderland Jam — a market manager with Sue Shortt of Shortt’s Farm and Garden Center, Sean Fitzpatrick of Real Food Share, and Andrea Saunders of Crave Custom Cakes and Cookies — recently announced the full vendors list.The market will return to Fairfield Hills every Tuesday, from 2 to 6:30 pm, through October.The vendors, according to McCraigh, are Shortt’s Farm, produce; Waldingfield Farm, produce; Daffodil Hill Growers, produce and flowers; Real Food Share, produce; Carrot Top Kitchens, soups and pickles; Wonderland Jam, jams, jellies, preserves, marmalades; Sugar Magnolia Bakery, cupcakes, donuts, cookies; Nick’s Catering, prepared meals; Down to Earth Apiaries, honey; Upper Grassy Greens, microgreens; Aquarian Catering, prepared meals; Oronoque Farms, pies; South Ridge Farm, flowers; Beldotti’s, bread, pesto, mozzarella; Dani’s Pantry, prepared meals; The Healing Herb Garden, elderberry-based syrups, jams, soaps, baked goods; Sonny’s Grinders, food truck; Little Kernel, kettle corn; and C.H. Booth Library, books, puzzles, DVDs for purchase.For more information about the Newtown Farmers Market see its Instagram account, @newtown_ct_farmers_market; its Facebook page, The Newtown Farmers Market; or its website, newtownctfarmersmarket.com.Eliza Hallabeck can be reached at eliza@thebee.com.

Newtown Farmers Market Announces Vendors Eliza Hallabeck Story Newtown Farmers Market Announces Vendors, Soft Open June 15 Obit Lucas Cultural Events, Features None

Features

The Top Of The Mountain

The Top Of The Mountain Newtown, from a cat's point of view. Congratulations to the Newtown High School girls’ golf team for winning the South-West Conference championship on June 2! It is Newtown’s first conference crown since 2018. Read more about the big win in this week’s Sports section.I’ve marked my calendar and I hope you will, too. There is a COVID-delayed reception honoring the retirement of longtime assistant director/interim director/reference librarian Beryl Harrison this Friday afternoon, June 11. From 4:30 to 6:30 pm, the public is invited to celebrate Beryl, who has contributed so much to this community. Patrons of C.H. Booth Library who have browsed any section of the library anytime these past 30 years or so are familiar with the always smiling, helpful, friendly librarian, who was always eager to assist. Her retirement was well earned! Join library staff and administration on the patio of the C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street — and enjoy a scoop or two of ice cream with her.The annual low-cost rabies vaccination clinic, $20 cash only, takes place on Saturday, June 12, from 9 am to noon, at the Municipal Center at Fairfield Hills. Please call 203-270-4210 for details, or see the calendar listing at newtownbee.com.Saturday is a pretty exciting day coming up for NHS seniors — graduation day, and the in-person event at the Blue & Gold Stadium is the culmination of not just their years of education, but marks the end of a remarkably challenging year. Congratulations to all!Also, a reminder that this Saturday is CT Open House Day. There are two locations within Sandy Hook celebrating this annual event to all things in-state and tourism. Over 140 locations have registered to offer in-person and virtual events this year. Visit ctvisit.com to find the full list of participation locations and their special offers.Need a little help getting a work project done around your home? If you are 55 or older and live in town, Friends Of Newtown Seniors (FONS) and Volunteers Open Worlds (VOW) may be able to help. The two nonprofits have teamed up to grant wishes to two Newtown senior citizens. Pick up a copy of last week’s Newtown Bee, or contact coordinator Bev Bennett Schaedler at 203-430-0633 or fonschoreservices@gmail.com. The FONS-VOW Wishes Come True Raffle will help with painting a room, planting a garden, rearranging furniture, washing windows, light yardwork, or something similar. Deadline to make a wish is Monday, June 14, and the winners will be notified by Wednesday, June 16.Pleasant Paws Pet Center is hosting a ribbon cutting and open house from 10 am to 3 pm, Sunday, June 13. If you’ve been curious about the pet care facility located at 94 South Main Street, here is your chance to tour the facility — and I hear that a food truck will be on premises during the celebration. (Rain date is July 11.)Who doesn’t love an oddity? Join author Anastasia Mills Healy and C.H. Booth Library next week when she is the featured guest for a virtual author program hosted by the library. Anastasia is the author of Secret Connecticut: A Guide To The Wonderful, Weird, and Obscure. Anyone looking to learn about some of the oddest locations in this state will want to join her when she talks about the book and doing research during a pandemic, and shares some of her favorite places within the Nutmeg State. Register by calling 203-426-4533 or visiting chboothibrary.org.The Friends of the C.H. Booth Library want to be sure everyone takes note of the new dates and hours for the huge Annual Book Sale. This year, the event takes place beginning with a Friday preview event ($40 entry fee for this day) on July 9 and continues through Tuesday, July 13. The sale opens each day at 10 am. As always, you can expect a well-run, organized sale of thousands of books and other items. Look for more details in upcoming articles in The Newtown Bee.Get your shopping bags ready! The Newtown Farmers Market returns to Fairfield Hills next Tuesday, June 15, from 2 to 6:30 pm. You’ll find the vendors of locally produced goods and food items on the campus each Tuesday through October, and as usual, you can expect high quality and the freshest produce. Look for details in a related story in this week’s issue of The Newtown Bee.A resident shared with me a special experience: Spotting a doe that appeared to be in distress, not far from an outbuilding on their property, it soon became clear as to why she was so restless. Nature gave him and his wife a first-hand look at the birth of twin fawns! Mama Deer then moved the twins apart from each other, moving back and forth to care for them in what she instinctively knows is a safe way to protect them. Initially up on wobbly legs, the babies laid down, still as can be, after Mama apparently gave them “the word” while welcoming them to Planet Earth. Pretty cool!A big thank you to our local representatives Mitch Bolinsky, Raghib Allie-Brennan, Tony Scott, and Senator Tony Hwang who put in the good word that House Bill 6641 contained wording unsupportive of newspapers (see The Newtown Bee editorial, June 4, “A Nibble Hurts As Much As A Bite;”). That bill, amended, was rolled into another, according to Rep Bolinsky, with language that would be interpreted as far less damaging to small publications such as The Newtown Bee.I was weaving my way through the halls of the Municipal Center at 3 Primrose Street and what did I come upon? A showcase filled with the works by members of Weaving Newtown. Through the end of June, during Municipal Center hours, you can take a look at the handcrafted woven items in the case near the Council Chambers. When you are finished being impressed by the skill of these local weavers, take time to appreciate the astounding photographs of the 2nd Company Governor’s Horse Guard adorning the walls. Marleen Cafarelli’s exhibit of more than 100 photographs runs through the end of June, also.Just a reminder that spending time outdoors this spring means you should be spending more time doing a tick check. These disease-bearing insects are proliferating this year. If you missed The Newtown Bee Friday Forum “Tickborne Disease Awareness &Prevention” on May 21, with Newtown Health District reps and expert Dr Goudarz Molaei, visit youtube.com/watch?v=_slatsyzzoq&t=4s to learn about measures you should take to avoid some potentially debilitating illnesses.The weather will be the weather, that we know in New England. Following a miserably cold Memorial weekend, this past weekend introduced us to the sweltering days of summer — two weeks before the official summer season begins. It was the perfect time for this cat to practice doing what cats do best: nothing.I’ll be back to doing “something,” though, you can bet on that. Be sure next week to... Read me again.

Top of the Mountain Story The Top Of The Mountain Top of the Mountain_215 Features None

Sports

Field Named In Honor Of Coach Lin Hertberg Newtown's softball field has been named in honor of Coach Hertberg.Lin Hertberg has done so much for Newtown High School softball — from his dedication to coaching to donations to the program — representatives from the program and the school athletics department decided it was time to honor Hertberg in a big way.After the June 5 state tournament game against Trumbull, Newtown High’s home softball venue became known as the Lindell Hertberg Softball Field.Former longtime Newtown Head Coach Bob Guererra, who coached alongside Hertberg for more than a decade, surprised Hertberg — an assistant with the program, a role he has held for two decades — near the Newtown dugout after the game. Guerrera walked him out to the pitcher’s circle to be honored by a lineup of current and former players, player parents, and some family members.Surprised by all of this, and clearly overwhelmed, Hertberg was very appreciative of the gesture and show of support. Newtown Athletic Director Matt Memoli presented Hertberg with a plaque and paper keepsake to commemorate the occasion.Newtown Coach Joanna Closs played under the direction of Hertberg and noted that the dugouts, banners, outfield fences, and scoreboard are all courtesy of Hertberg.“He is Newtown softball. Everything we have is because of him,” Closs said.“This is something we as a department and the softball program thought was so fitting,” Memoli said.Hertberg has coached in the program since 2000. He has helped lead the team along with only a few head coaches throughout the years, including Guerrera from 2006 to 2017.Both Guerrera and Hertberg raised three girls and came from a baseball background, giving the coaches a nice connection right off the bat.“It was a tremendous marriage. Two old baseball guys coaching girls — it was tremendous,” Guerrera said. “I now have a chance personally to express how much he meant to me.”Hertberg is always encouraging and motivating players. He may work at making a positive impression on the players, but they also leave their mark with him.“Looking at all of you girls, it brings back memories. I remember plays you made,” Hertberg said during the ceremony.“He’s so much more than an assistant softball coach to so many people,” Memoli said.Among the former players on hand was 2010 graduate Katie Bowen, now a coach at Springfield College.“I think it’s so great to come back and see he hasn’t changed. He brings such a positive energy. He’s just an amazing person. He deserves this,” Bowen said.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

Lin Hertberg Softball Field Andy Hutchison Story Newtown High School Softball Program Recognizes Longtime Coach Lin Hertberg With Surprise Field Dedication After State Playoff Game Lin Hertberg Softball Field Featured Slider, Sports None

Field Named In Honor Of Coach Lin Hertberg

Newtown's softball field has been named in honor of Coach Hertberg.

Sports

From Ice To The Fire: Hockey Goaltender Paltauf Helps Laxmen

From Ice To The Fire: Hockey Goaltender Paltauf Helps Laxmen Markus Paltauf went from emergency goalie to playoff starter.Accustomed to blocking pucks on the ice, Markus Paltauf found himself thrown into the proverbial fire on the lacrosse field this spring.A hockey goaltender since his early childhood, Paltauf was called upon to stop balls instead of pucks and show off his lacrosse net-minding skills in some pressure situations late this spring.The Newtown High School junior and first-year emergency backup lacrosse goalie had to be called upon in the state playoffs after standout starter Jake Dandrea sustained an injury in the conference tourney.Paltauf had been persuaded by Nighthawk Coach Scott Bulkley to join the team as an emergency backup to Dandrea earlier this spring, all but assured that he would not have to play. Bulkley said he told Paltauf he probably did not have to worry about getting his number called, but that the team needed a backup just in case.Then came the just-in-case scenario, and the backup, who had limited experience practicing the position, found himself in his first game, a state playoff contest when No. 22 New Milford visited No. 11 NHS in the Class L state qualifying round on May 29. Paltauf made a handful of saves and intercepted some New Milford passes to help the Nighthawks win 14-8 and advance.Next came a visit to No. 6 Simsbury in the first round on June 2. Newtown fell 9-8, despite nine saves by Paltauf in an upset bid, ending a challenging season in which Paltauf and many of his teammates had to step up.“I thought he played very well,” Bulkley said. “He’s a competitor. He went out there and played as hard as he could play.”Having played attack in lacrosse since middle school, Paltauf was familiar with the game, but had never suited up to stop shots in lacrosse — and goaltending in hockey and lacrosse are two different animals.“You can’t compare the two,” said Paltuaf, adding that in hockey, the puck is shot from the ice whereas in lacrosse, the ball can come at him from low or high angles. “Hand-eye coordination plays a role, too.”“Hockey, you’ve got to slide. In lacrosse you’ve got to step, which is a totally different movement,” Bulkley said.Not to mention the equipment (or lack thereof, in the case of lacrosse) is much different. Beyond skates rather than shoes, hockey goalies wear all sorts of padding, whereas lacrosse goalies have a chest protector, cup, and a helmet with face shield — but little else to separate them from getting bruises.The Newtown coach credited Paltauf for working hard in practice to be ready.“He tried to be as prepared as much as he could be for the guys on the team,” Bulkley said. “He’s a great kid; the guys love him.”Paltauf has gone from emergency backup to possibly being in line to succeed Dandrea between the posts next fall. With some honing of skills and more practice, Paltauf can help the Nighthawks again — if he is up for it — Bulkley believes.“He has to try to manage to not hurt his hockey form and improve his lacrosse form,” the coach added.Paltauf impressed his coach and teammates with this small but pressure-packed goaltending display.“I thought he did a good job,” Bulkley said.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

Lacrosse Goalie Markus Paltauf Andy Hutchison Story From Ice To The Fire: Hockey Goaltender Paltauf Helps Lacrosse Team In A Pinch Lacrosse Goalie Markus Paltauf Sports None

Sports

Players Stepped Up To Aid Laxmen In Memorable Campaign

Players Stepped Up To Aid Laxmen In Memorable Campaign Players changed positions to help the Hawk laxmen win.It seemed that pretty much everything that could stand in the way of success for Newtown High School’s boys’ lacrosse team did this spring. And yet, at the end of the day, it was quite the successful campaign for the Nighthawk laxmen.Beginning with a nearly team-wide coronavirus quarantine that wiped out the preseason and continuing with a deluge of injuries to key players, the Nighthawks certainly had their share of obstacles.Coach Scott Bulkley, who had a no-excuses, hold-players-accountable approach, was pretty impressed with what his at-times patchwork roster accomplished in winning a dozen games, including a South-West Conference tournament quarterfinal contest and a Class L state playoff qualifying round tilt. Newtown, the No. 11 team in the state bracket, saw its challenging but ultimately rewarding campaign come to an end at the hands of No. 6 Simsbury, but not before nearly pulling an upset with a backup goaltender (see related story about Markus Paltauf) and banged up roster.Newtown fell 9-8 to Simsbury in what Bulkley described as a hard-fought game. His team nearly dug itself out of a big deficit and tied it in the last few seconds.Tanner Trede had three goals and an assist, Colin Breslin had two goals, Ryan Ruddy notched two goals and an assist, Jake Bulkley recorded a goal and an assist, and Connor Breslin added a goal. Shaine Luzietti picked up eight ground balls. Paltauf made nine saves.“I thought everybody played extremely hard,” Bulkley said. “I thought that, for the most part, we had a solid season.”Senior Jeffrey Garrity, a standout scorer as a sophomore — don’t forget, last season was canceled due to the coronavirus — was out this year with an injury. Attacks Will Wallace and Sam Steare were in and out of the lineup at different times. Top scorer Brandon Mank and Mark Sokk, one of the team’s top midfielders, got injured. Midfielder Elijah Williams was also hurt. The injury to starting goaltender Jake Dandrea in the conference playoffs was the icing on this bitter-tasting injury cake.Lots of players stepped up from the junior varsity ranks or changed positions for the betterment of the team — and the makeshift approach worked.Trede and Bulkley were never off the field. Trede logged a whopping 75 points — a credit to his abilities and a product of being on the field so much, Bulkley said.Connor Breslin and Bulkley both recorded 44 points. A long pole middie, Bulkley saw time on attack and put up high point totals for any player, much less a long stick player.Defender Luzietti bumped up to help out with draws since Trede and Bulkley, along with Ruddy and Sokk, would otherwise have been beaten up too much with all of their time on the field, which included time battling for possession off the face-offs.Mike Haddick was an unsung hero, Bulkley noted, for switching positions to help out the middle of the defense.“They didn’t complain. They worked really hard,” Bulkley said of his players who made adjustments to help the team.T.J. O’Connell stepped up and played defensive middie and showed his speed all over the field. Among the younger, less experienced players who rose through the ranks quickly due to injuries was Isaiah Williams, who was new to defense this year and made his mark. Midfielder Colby Harrell and attack players Steare and Colin Breslin stepped up as well. Fisher Stites came up from the JV ranks and contributed with face-offs.Bulkley credited defensive coach Steve Groccia and his brother, JV coach Nick Groccia, for bringing players along.The Newtown head coach said he is looking forward to seeing further growth and development of his up-and-coming players next spring.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Boys Lacrosse Andy Hutchison Story Players Stepped Up To Aid Laxmen In Memorable Campaign NHS Boys Lacrosse_70 Sports None

Sports

Young Softball Team Gained Valuable Experience

Young Softball Team Gained Valuable Experience Young players stood tall for the NHS softball team this spring.Newtown High School’s softball team was hard for Trumbull to shake: The Nighthawks compiled 11 hits, but just could not get the clutch ones in their season-ending 8-2 loss to the visiting Eagles in the Class LL state tournament quarterfinals on June 6.The Hawks plan to stick around, much like they did against the Eagles, and be contenders in the playoffs for years to come.“Our core is coming back — our core is very young,” said Coach Joanna Closs, whose starting lineup features seven players expected to return, including five who are freshmen and sophomores.The Nighthawks went 12-5 during the regular season, reached the South-West Conference tourney quarterfinals, and won two state playoff games as the No. 11 seed, blanking No. 22 Norwalk 4-0 and No. 6 Amity of Woodbridge 1-0 in eight innings, then falling to No. 14 Trumbull.“I think a lot of people doubted us all year. We were under the radar,” said Closs, whose Nighthawks upset Amity behind stellar pitching from Sydney Adolfson — which included a dozen strikeouts — and Sarah Kick’s run-scoring hit in extra innings.Against the Eagles, Newtown trailed just 3-0 in the sixth inning before Trumbull padded its lead with three runs in the frame.Newtown had its chances, as Ashley Hubner had two hits and a run scored, Katie Goyda had a walk and a hit, Bri Pellicone walked and scored, Adolfson had two hits and a run batted in, Maddy Twitchell singled twice, Caroline Gardner walked and singled, and Kick and Morgan Melillo singled.The Hawks hit the ball hard, but at Trumbull’s fielders with runners on base, including with the bases loaded.“We just couldn’t get the big hit and they did,” Closs said. “I’m very proud of them. I have a very young team. I’m proud we didn’t give up.”“Just the fact we’ve come so far and work so well together is great,” said Goyda, a senior captain and outfielder, one of five seniors on the roster.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Softball Andy Hutchison Story Young Softball Team Gained Valuable Experience In Strong Season NHS Softball_71 Sports None

Sports

Hawk Sluggers Edged Out Of State Playoffs

Today's Events

June 15, 2021

“Marleen Cafarelli: The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard”

Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street

More than 100 photographs by Newtown resident Marleen Cafarelli, celebrating the work, members, and horses of the state horse guard headquartered in Newtown, on view weekdays through the end of June, hosted by Newtown Cultural Arts Commission.

June 15, 2021 at 08:30 am

“Weaving Newtown: our work”

Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street

Works by members of local weaving collective including Master Weaver Hanna Roehrs (also the group’s instructor), coordinator Jen Rogers, and students Leslie Huston, Hao Chang, and Bev Skiles, on view in showcase in main corridor, weekdays through June 30.

June 15, 2021 at 08:30 am

Newtown Farmers Market opening day

Fairfield Hills, Keating Farms Avenue

Vendors with locally grown vegetables, fruits, meats, baked goods, etc, weekly through October; 203-841-6864, newtownctfarmersmarket.com.

June 15, 2021 at 02:00 pm

Author Program: “Secret Connecticut: A Guide To The Wonderful, Weird, and Obscure” (virtual program)

Free

Zoom program hosted by C.H. Booth Library featuring writer Anastasia Mills Healy and her March release, which shares with readers some of the most intriguing people, places, and events of her home state, registration required for program link; 203-426-4533, chboothlibrary.org.

June 15, 2021 at 06:30 pm

Newtown Community Center Committee meeting (agenda posted, see notes about attendance options)

NOTE: Due to continued COVID-19 concerns, seating is limited for this meeting. Face masks and social distancing will be required of those who attend. For those who would be more comfortable watching and/or participating from home, there is a public call-in phone number and a livestream link available. Click through the agenda below for details.

Newtown Community Center (Multi-Purpose Room), 8 Simpson Street

agenda posted

June 15, 2021 at 06:30 pm

Board of Education meeting

NOTE: Due to COVID-19 concerns, some meetings are still being conducted remotely. Click through the agenda once posted below for participation information.

June 15, 2021 at 07:00 pm

Economic Development Commission meeting

NOTE: Due to COVID-19 concerns, some meetings are still being conducted remotely. Click through the agenda once posted below for participation information.

June 15, 2021 at 07:00 pm

Special Editions

Maria Klaus

Hook & Ladder Planning Bounce House Bonanza, Fire Expo Event

Thank you John and the Newtown Bee for providing this information from Emergency Management - Communications - Health - Fire & EMMS and the Town to our community. Your article here and the information recently posted on News and Announcements with links to state and local resources, has provided vital information to our residents. Be Aware - Be Prepared - and if you have questions anyone on the Emergency Management team will be happy to help you. Maureen Will

Local Responders Share Critical Tips For 2021 Hurricane Season

It is ridiculous that we've watched this intersection fail for decades for anyone who is trying to turn left whether they are traveling on Route 25, approaching from Church Hill, or from West Street. Many drivers approaching from Church Hill trying to turn left on Route 25 engage in a dangerous game of chicken, pulling out into traffic until travelers on Route 25 are forced to yield their right-of-way. Those travelers on Route 25 who attempt to coax Church Hill traffic into the busy intersection "to be nice" are putting as many at risk as those passing on the right. This will always be a busy intersection and a rotary is a great answer but unfortunately we'll see little change. See article from 2015 -"Flagpole Traffic Problems Under Review - Again"

Please Do Something!

I was saddened to learn of the passing of our old friend, David, a famous bon vivant and a wonderful friend and host to our family when we visited David and Dale in London or Olmet. I recently re-read David’s completely charming memoir, "Wake Up Running." His spirit lives on every page, his voice captured in his graceful writing. So often I had the sense of listening to his recounting yet another amazing Egee experience over a pretty good glass of Vin de Table - a remarkable accomplishment as any professional author will attest. David’s book attests to his deep love of Dale and their children, and his enthusiasm for the adventure of his remarkable life. David and I met when we were healthcare executives, working for competing international corporations. Then, we became collaborators when our firms joined forces to bid for a multi-billion dollar hospital management contract in Saudi Arabia. David and I formed a new corporate entity, United States Health Services Company, of which we were Co-CEOs (and its only employees.) As it happened, our little venture fell apart, and David’s company, HCA, was awarded the contract. But David and I remained friends, and he invited me and my family several times over the years to visit Chateau d’Egee in Olmet. We have very fond memories of those days with David and Dale, days consumed with preparing and then consuming amazing meals overseen by Dale’s expert culinary eye and David’s flair for presentation. Our young daughters, Molly and Katie, practiced the art of the sous-chef, dealing with whatever fresh produce we would find in the market stalls. Later, my wife Carol and I visited David and Dale in their expansive romantic flat in Sloane Square, their home and site of Dale’s art studio. The dining room was dominated by large portraits of David and Dale, the work of the portrait painter for the Royal Family, including a famous painting of Princess Diana. Their home was full of art and artifacts of their travels in Europe and the Middle East. David had a special fondness for bespoke transportation, including a sporty English roadster in which he zipped around London, a SmartCar for Olmet’s tiny streets, and a Harley Motorcycle, for which he acquired a dashing leather cap for rides around the French countryside. It was exhilarating to walk around London with David on summer days, as he would note in Knightsbridge, Green Park, and Mayfair, David points of historic interest, and also places with scandalous past. He cut a jaunty, stylish figure in the city, and I was honored to be his walking companion. David’s memoir, "Wake Up Running," beautifully captures his vivid life, his joy, and his love for Dale.

David Egee

Thank you for covering this story. I want to clarify something in the article above. Mr. Gaston was only aware of my owning a dog because when he knocked on our door, I told him I was going to stay on the other side because of the dog. (Dutch door, split in half) I did not know what he was going to tell me initially. We did not discuss the reasons for installing the fence at that time. Mr. Gaston was a complete stranger to me and we did not speak very long at all other than to say I got the ok prior to install to which he shared they didn't have jurisdiction and provided me Ms. Gaston's contact information. Further, the certificate of appropriateness application did not ask me to state my reason for installing the fence. I want to make it clear to everyone reading, that people with disabilities don't need to go around announcing it to everyone they meet. When it does become known, it is important to be flexible in policies to allow for reasonable modifications as required by federal law. I too believe this was a very unfortunate situation and that we have come to an agreement that is satisfactory to both sides. We very much look forward to working with the Historic District Commission in the future.

Main Street Fence To Stay Standing, Requires Hedges

didnt they have high freguency power equipment in the basement of canaan house used to treat patients against there will? or is that one of the reasons the building was torn down to conceal its use

Canaan House Cupola Is Last Section Standing

What’s In The Works?

Field Named In Honor Of Coach Lin Hertberg

Plein Air Painters To Share ‘Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty’ At Historic Main Street Property

Local Expert Reflects On ‘100 Deadliest Days’ For Teen Drivers

What’s In The Works?

Updated Infrastructure As Edmond Town Hall Reopens; Movies In July

Fire Reports | June 3-9, 2021

Selectmen Hear About Parks, NCC Grants, Planned Activities

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off In Bethel, June 12

In Case You Missed It, Here Is What Posted Over The Weekend

Plein Air Painters To Share ‘Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty’ At Historic Main Street Property

Lathrop Students Perform Another Broadway-Caliber Revue

Newtown Farmers Market Announces Vendors, Soft Open June 15

The Top Of The Mountain

Field Named In Honor Of Coach Lin Hertberg

From Ice To The Fire: Hockey Goaltender Paltauf Helps Laxmen

Players Stepped Up To Aid Laxmen In Memorable Campaign

Young Softball Team Gained Valuable Experience

Hawk Sluggers Edged Out Of State Playoffs

For Better Health June 2021

Home & Garden Spring 2021

Guide To Newtown 2021

Holiday Gift Guide 2020

For Better Health October 2020

Home & Garden Fall 2020

The Newtown Bee's Back to School 2020

Home & Garden Spring 2020

Home & Garden Spring 2018

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What’s In The Works?

Field Named In Honor Of Coach Lin Hertberg

Plein Air Painters To Share ‘Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty’ At Historic Main Street Property

Local Expert Reflects On ‘100 Deadliest Days’ For Teen Drivers

What’s In The Works?

Updated Infrastructure As Edmond Town Hall Reopens; Movies In July

Fire Reports | June 3-9, 2021

Selectmen Hear About Parks, NCC Grants, Planned Activities

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off In Bethel, June 12

In Case You Missed It, Here Is What Posted Over The Weekend

Plein Air Painters To Share ‘Capturing Connecticut’s Beauty’ At Historic Main Street Property

Lathrop Students Perform Another Broadway-Caliber Revue

Newtown Farmers Market Announces Vendors, Soft Open June 15

The Top Of The Mountain

Field Named In Honor Of Coach Lin Hertberg

From Ice To The Fire: Hockey Goaltender Paltauf Helps Laxmen

Players Stepped Up To Aid Laxmen In Memorable Campaign

Young Softball Team Gained Valuable Experience

Hawk Sluggers Edged Out Of State Playoffs

For Better Health June 2021

Home & Garden Spring 2021

Guide To Newtown 2021

Holiday Gift Guide 2020

For Better Health October 2020

Home & Garden Fall 2020

The Newtown Bee's Back to School 2020

Home & Garden Spring 2020

Home & Garden Spring 2018