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Individual With Newtown Ties Implicated In Two HomicidesAn individual who Newtown Police say has strong local ties has been implicated in two Connecticut homicides — one in Willington and another in Derby — according to reports. The second homicide victim has been identified as a 23-year-old former Newtown resident.UPDATE (Sunday, May 24, 2020; 6:36 pm): This story has been updated to include the name of the second person killed during the three-day crime spree. New photos from Connecticut State Police have also been added. * * * * *An individual who Newtown Police say has strong local ties has been implicated in two Connecticut homicides — the first in Willington on Friday and the second in Derby — and two assaults, according to reports. The victim of the second homicide has been identified as 23-year-old Nicholas Eisele, formerly of Newtown. According to a release from Newtown Police Department Saturday night, Connecticut State Police were searching for Peter Manfredonia, who they said is considered "armed and dangerous," and is a primary suspect in the Willington murder.The suspect has very strong ties to Newtown and with the recent sightings of Manfredonia in the Route 34 area of Derby, "we want our residents and those around to be aware of this very dangerous individual," the local police message states."Newtown Police have stepped up patrols and have increased manpower, out of an abundance of caution. Residents should be aware and on the lookout, that while no immediate danger exist the potential is here and we have addressed it by bringing in extra manpower to patrol and protect our residents."The local department said the suspect was believed to be in possession of several firearms, and was driving a black Volkswagen Jetta with Connecticut plates AU78524. Just after 3:30 pm Sunday, May 24, however, State Police reported that the vehicle had been located in New Jersey, near the Pennsylvania border. Law enforcement agencies there were actively searching the area for the suspect.The 23-year-old Manfredonia is described as a 6'3" white male, with disheveled, black hair, brown eyes, and weighs approximately 240 pounds.He was last seen wearing a gray T-shirt, gray sweatpants, and carrying some type of bag.'Brutal' Attack In WillingtonConnecticut State Police said Manfredonia, with a date of birth of February 2, 1997, was seen on Friday leaving the scene of a homicide and serious assault on Mirtl Road, in the southern section of Willington. He was reported to be operating a red motorcycle.Anyone seeing him was warned, "do not approach and call 911." At the time, state police said Manfredonia was believed to be in possession of a pistol and long guns. Police said he was seen “carrying an unknown type bag with food rations and is believed to be armed with numerous weapons." The Hartford Courant reported Manfredonia was responsible for a home invasion type break Sunday morning at another residence in Willington.A vehicle that was stolen in that incident was found some time later near Osborndale State Park in Derby, in the vicinity of a home on Roosevelt Drive (Route 34) where another crime scene was located. Officials later said that was the scene of a second murder tied to Manfredonia. Police have released the name of Nicholas Eisele, 23, as the deceased person found at the Roosevelt Drive residence Sunday morning. Eisele is also a former Newtown resident. Manfredonia is a 2015 graduate of Newtown High School. He then attended the University of Connecticut.Check back or follow The Newtown Bee's Facebook and Twitter sites for immediate updates and breaking news.

An individual who Newtown Police say has strong local ties has been implicated in two Connecticut homicides — one in Willington and another in Derby — according to reports. The second homicide victim has been identified as a 23-year-old former Newtown resident.

Cultural Events

Drop-Off Day Heads Off A Deluge Of Returns At Library

Drop-Off Day Heads Off A Deluge Of Returns At Library Drop-off day for materials at the library was off to a good start on Thursday. Just half an hour into the C.H. Booth Library Materials Drop-off Day, May 21, Library Director Douglas Lord said that there had already been activity for the 2 to 6 pm scheduled returns option.“When can I bring back my things?” is the most common question that library staff has fielded, he said, since the 25 Main Street library closed to the public in March.Though patrons have been advised that all borrowed items have been automatically renewed until July 1, and no overdue fees will be charged, enough people have seemed anxious to bring them back, that a day to return items was scheduled. Having some of the returns early, Lord said, will allow the staff to begin processing what could be thousands of returns when the library does reopen.Materials returned on May 21 will remain in the storage pod over the long holiday weekend, Lord said, and then each item will be wiped down with a bleach solution before being placed back in circulation.On May 21, Lord added that he hopes to see a curbside option for patrons soon, prior to a full reopening of the facility.

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News

Ambulance Reports | May 14-20, 2020

Ambulance Reports | May 14-20, 2020 Ambulance reports for Newtown, Conn. for the period of May 14-20, 2020. Thursday, May 14: 9:03 am, Falls/Accidents; 9:36 am, Breathing Difficulty; 2:10 pm, Mental/Emotional/Psych; 4:57 pm, Unconscious/Syncope.Friday, May 15: 10:01 am, Falls/Accidents; 2:57 pm, Medical Alarm; 3:04 pm, Sick/Unknown; 3:53 pm, Allergic Reaction; 6:13 pm, Breathing Difficulty; 8:07 pm, Falls/Accidents; 8:26 pm, Mental/Emotional/Psych; 9:30 pm, Falls/Accidents;10:38 pm, Unconscious/Syncope.Saturday, May 16: 4:55 am, Breathing Difficulty; 7:49 am, Falls/Accidents; 8:09 am, Falls/Accidents; 9:42 am, Medical Alarm; 1:37 pm, Falls/Accidents; 3:19 pm, Medical Alarm; 5:03 pm, Breathing Difficulty; 10:10 pm, Sick/Unknown.Sunday, May 17: 2:40 am, Falls/Accidents; 4:18 am, Breathing Difficulty; 7:17 am, Mental/Emotional/Psych; 10:23 am, Falls/Accidents; 10:34 am, Breathing Difficulty; 3:47 pm, Back Pain; 4:27 pm, Sick/Unknown; 5:40 pm, Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) - Injury; 6:24 pm, Motor Vehicle Accidents; 6:49 pm, Bleeding/Non-Traumatic.Monday, May 18: 11:15 am, Mental/Emotional/Psych; 12:27 pm, Falls/Accidents; 2:24 pm, Unconscious/Syncope; 5:42 pm, Breathing Difficulty; 6:11 pm, Transport; 7:55 pm, Breathing Difficulty; 8:39 pm, Falls/Accidents; 11:16 pm, Sick/Unknown.Tuesday, May 19: 5:50 am, Falls/Accidents; 10:40 am, Chest Pain; 12:02 pm, Sick/Unknown; 4:18 pm, Falls/Accidents; 4:26 pm, Sick/Unknown; 5:36 pm, Breathing Difficulty; 5:48 pm, Falls/Accidents; 6:50 pm, Allergic Reaction; 11:34 pm, Falls/Accidents; 11:40 pm, Sick/Unknown.Wednesday, May 20: 1:16 am, Chest Pain; 2:14 am, Sick/Unknown; 2:40 am, Sick/Unknown; 5:19 am, Breathing Difficulty; 8:22 am, Falls/Accidents; 9:19 am, Falls/Accidents; 10:31 am, Breathing Difficulty; 10:48 am, Sick/Unknown; 12:55 pm, Chest Pain; 2:04 pm, Falls/Accidents; 5:19 pm, Stroke.

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News

Fire Reports | May 14-20, 2020

Fire Reports | May 14-20, 2020 Fire reports for Newtown, Conn. for the period of May 14-20, 2020. Thursday, May 14: 9:32 am, Hazardous Condition, 11 Old Bridge Rd, Sandy Hook Fire Department (SHFD); 1:10 pm, Illegal Burn/Outside Fire, 10 Blakeslee Dr, Newtown Hook & Ladder (NHL); 2:51 pm, 3 Old Bridge Rd, SHFD; 2:56 pm, Alarm Residential, 15 Pebble Rd, Botsford Fire Department (BFD), NHL; 4:11 pm, Alarm Residential, 17 Jeremiah Rd, SHFD, BFD; 4:55 pm, Alarm Residential, 28 Huntingtown Rd, BFD; 4:57 pm, Medical Assist, Greenbriar Ln, NHL; 9:35 pm, Alarm Residential, 108 Hanover Rd, NHL.Friday, May 15: 4 pm, Public Service, 9 Loveland Dr, SHFD; 4:46 pm, Public Service, 13 Serenity Ln, SHFD; 10:38 pm, Medical Assist, Berkshire Rd, SHFD.Saturday, May 16: 11:48 am, Public Service, Schoolhouse Hill Rd/Edmond Rd, SHFD; 12:51 pm, Illegal Burn/Outside Fire, 19 Old Green Rd, SHFD; 12:56 pm, Public Service, 12 Church Hill Rd, NHL; 3:42 pm, Alarm Commercial, 3 Nunnawauk Rd, NHL; 3:52 pm, Alarm Residential, 4 Briarwood Ln, Hawleyville Fire Department (HFD); 6:20 pm, Mutual Aid, 461 Main St South, Southbury, SHFD; 6:45 pm, Alarm Residential, 16 Greenleaf Farms Rd, Dodgingtown Fire Department (DFD).Sunday, May 17: 12:54 pm, Public Service, 17 Buttonball Dr, SHFD; 5:17 pm, Public Service, 25 Housatonic Dr, SHFD; 5:40 pm, Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) - Injury, S Main St / Bryan Ln, BFD.Monday, May 18: 2:16 pm, Alarm Residential, 5 Hawthorne Hill Rd, HFD, NHL.Tuesday, May 19: 9:57 am, Wires Down, 64 Toddy Hill Rd, SHFD; 4:24 pm, Odor of Gas Inside, 216 Brushy Hill Rd, BFD, NHL; 5:59 pm, Public Service, 5 Hattertown Rd, DFD; 7:33 pm, Brush Fire, Toddy Hill Rd/Deerfield Dr, HFD.Wednesday, May 20: 10:12 am, Public Service, Village Cemetery, SHFD; 2:31 pm, Alarm Residential, 52 Platts Hill Rd, BFD, NHL; 2:48 pm, Illegal Burn/Outside Fire, 3 Farm Field Ridge Rd, SHFD; 5:17 pm, Public Service, Main St / Church Hill Rd, NHL.

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Education

Children In School Meals Program Getting Emergency SNAP Benefits

Children In School Meals Program Getting Emergency SNAP Benefits The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) has announced that families participating in the free or reduced-price meals program will soon receive additional, emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals while learning from home during the pandemic.HARTFORD - The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) has announced that because of the cancellation of in-person, pre-K to grade 12 classes at all schools in the state for the remainder of the 2019-2020 academic year, the families of approximately 265,631 public school students and 1,748 private school students who participate in the free or reduced-price meals program will soon receive additional, emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits under the federal Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program to ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals while learning from home during the pandemic.Initially, when schools were slated to reopen on May 20, the state received federal approval to provide $71.3 million in EBT benefits. That amount, however, increased to $97.5 million when the decision was made to cancel in-person classes for the remainder of the academic year.The emergency SNAP funding for children who participate in the free or reduced-price meals program was authorized by the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act.DSS estimates that it will issue approximately $34.5 million in additional food benefits to about 70,000 SNAP-eligible households and $63 million in food benefits to about 80,800 households not currently enrolled in SNAP. DSS is partnering with the Connecticut State Department of Education on the plan, which was approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service.Specifically:*Pandemic EBT SNAP benefits will be deposited in the EBT accounts of about 70,000 households currently enrolled in SNAP on or about Sunday, May 24. An additional 800 households enrolled in the Temporary Family Assistance Program, but not currently enrolled in SNAP, will also receive Pandemic EBT SNAP benefits in their EBT accounts at that time.*DSS will mail EBT debit cards to about 80,000 households not currently enrolled in SNAP and will deposit Pandemic EBT SNAP benefits into their new EBT accounts on Sunday, June 7, for Medicaid-enrolled households and on Sunday, June 21, for all other households. These are households that do not currently have EBT cards because they are not enrolled in SNAP or cash assistance.*Benefits can be used at any location that accepts SNAP/EBT cards. This includes famers’ markets and direct market farms. Pandemic EBT participants will also have online access to eligible food purchases through delivery or curbside pickup when it is implemented in the overall SNAP program.*Families do not need to apply for Pandemic EBT benefits, as children are automatically eligible because in-person classes are not in session. The planned one-time benefit is $364.80 per child enrolled in the free and reduced-price meals program.

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Features

Pick Up Your Spaghetti Dinner, At NUMC

A curbside version of the NUMC spaghetti dinner returns on June 6.

Education

A Little Bit Of The Nation’s Capital For St Rose Eighth Grade Students

A Little Bit Of The Nation’s Capital For St Rose Eighth Grade Students St Rose eighth graders were treated to a bit of Washington, DC, thanks to efforts of Msgr Weiss, Principal Gjoka, and teacher Valerie Petrillo. St Rose School eighth grade students were supposed to board a bus and head to Washington, DC, an annual tradition at the school. They could not get there this year, but Monsignor Robert Weiss, Principal Bardhyl Gjoka, and teacher Valerie Petrillo brought a little bit of DC to each of the 24 students, May 20.At 7:30 am, they met outside the 40 Church Hill Road school and decorated their cars with flags, streamers, and messages for the eighth graders. They set off to the farthest areas including New Milford, Oxford, Southbury, and Shelton, then made their way around Newtown and Sandy Hook honking their horns and waving as they pulled into driveways.In all they covered 130 miles and were met with many smiles.Monsignor presented each with a DC-themed gift bag containing personally signed Washington, DC guidebooks, patriotic ties for the boys and scarves for the girls. Gjoka and Petrillo greeted them with good wishes and asked how they and their families are doing.When asked if they are learning, the resounding answer was “Yes!”

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Features

The Top Of The Mountain

The Top Of The Mountain Newtown, from a cat's point of view.HOMETOWN PERSON: Prue ShepherdTreadwell and Dickinson Parks reopened this past Wednesday, and for those who are using the trails and open spaces, and in case you’ve missed hearing about them, some recommendations are in order:*Refrain from using parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms.*Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails.*Prepare for limited access to water fountains.*While on trails, warn other users of your presence, and step aside to let others pass.*Follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings (five), including outdoor picnicking, pick-up sports and other group hangouts, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.*Observe CDC’s minimum recommended physical distancing of six feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.Questions? Call P&R at 203-270-4340, Monday -Friday, 8 am- 4:30 pm. (And don’t forget to have fun!)Kathy Williams, a Meals On Wheels volunteer, arrived about a block away from her drop off point on Tuesday, and was unable to get through. “A policewoman [later identified as a firefighter, not police... and one we know quite well here at The Bee!] was redirecting traffic because of downed wires,” Kathy shares. The police officer told her she couldn’t access the client’s road. “When I explained I was delivering [for Meals On Wheels], she radioed someone nearer to the problem to ask if I could go through. They said yes, and the vehicles (firetruck, police cars) that were blocking the way were moved so that I could navigate my way and make my delivery — not exactly an escort, but they helped to make sure I made the delivery.” Now that is good news in tough times. Thank you, police and fire, for seeing the human side of this and assisting!I’ll be perking up my ears, and I hope you will, too, on Monday, May 25, when musicians salute Memorial Day from eight sites along the Housatonic River in Newtown, beginning at 10:10 am. I hear there is a special duo stationed at one spot — trumpeter Paul Fadus, and his WWII veteran father, Charles, on trombone! With large gatherings still highly discouraged, and with many veterans in that susceptible age group, no public ceremonies will take place in town to honor the veterans, past and present. There’s nothing to stop you, though, from giving a friendly call to any veteran you may know and thanking him or her for service to this country.All of those hungry folks who have missed their pasta and meatballs from the monthly Newtown United Methodist Church spaghetti dinners have something to cheer about. A curbside option for the popular dinner takes place on Saturday, June 6, from 4-7 pm. Orders must be made to 203-217-9732 by Monday, June 1. You’ll find the menu at the NUMC Facebook page, but rest assured: your favorite items are there!Upcoming holidays and traditional celebrations are all turned upside down or on hold this year, due to novel coronavirus concerns. Those in high school and college are dealing with the crisis in a number of ways, and their feelings differ greatly from older generations. So if any young men and women missed last week’s story at newtownbee.com, you may want to check out thequaranteencollection.com, where stories are being shared. Maybe you have a story to tell, too, about life in this time of social distancing.Thanks to the great effort by staff and administrators of our schools, it looks like Newtown Middle School eighth grade students will have a way next month to celebrate moving up to the high school, and Newtown High School seniors will get to walk across a stage to receive their diplomas. Both are combos of virtual and carefully considered in-person opportunities that are sure to bring smiles (behind masks, of course) to students and parents. Read more in this week’s Board of Education meeting article at newtownbee.com.I hope you had a chance to catch the sidewalk art at Hawley School, created by PTA volunteers and families. The colorful chalk artwork, stretching all along the sidewalk on the east side, was a way to show appreciation for teachers and support staff.I was counting on this year to be the year that my yellow rubber duckie was the first to cross the watery finish line at the Lions Club Annual Great Pootatuck Duck Race, but it looks like those plans are dashed. The Duck Race, scheduled for May 30, has been canceled. Looks like I’ll have another year to dream of success.Meanwhile, the Lions have been busy. In case you missed the letter in the Hive, The Newtown Lions are seeking support to raise enough funds for ADA compliant playground equipment for our town parks. They are helping fulfill Leah Mangino’s dream of special needs kids having the same chance for fun as typical kids. Donations can be made on the Newtown Lions website, www.newtownlions.com, or checks can be sent to Newtown Lions Playground Project, PO Box 218, Newtown CT 06470.The coronavirus has taken out two of my other favorite Newtown events. The St Rose Carnival, usually in mid to late June, has been canceled, and we have received word that the Friends of C.H. Booth Library’s huge book sale in July is also not happening this summer. It’s all sad, but I’d rather know we are all staying safe and staying well.Garden centers have been hopping the past couple of weekends, and I have no doubt they will continue to see action this coming long weekend as, with time on their hands, our friends and neighbors seem focused on landscaping all over town. As I wove my way beneath tables and around potted plants last weekend, I was purr-fectly happy to see shoppers graciously providing each other space and wearing face masks as they selected flower and vegetable plants.Talking about plants makes me think about our Farmers Market up at Fairfield Hills. I hear that news is on the way regarding a June date for this popular weekly outlet of fresh veggies and other Connecticut grown/made items to open up. Just like every other business, you’ll be seeing safe practices at the Market. It’s a change, of course, but nice to know that local farmers will have a place to sell their harvests, safely.At any rate, the gradual reopening of businesses in town gives me hope. I hope, as well, that you will make time next week to... Read me again.

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Features

Grilling, Swimming, Driving A Triple Threat This Memorial Day Weekend

Grilling, Swimming, Driving A Triple Threat This Memorial Day Weekend While everybody may be mindful of minimizing the threat of spreading or contracting COVID-19 as Connecticut’s first reopening weekend coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, safety authorities are also sending out reminders about a triple threat that has sadly injured many and cost lives annually.While everybody may be mindful of minimizing the threat of spreading or contracting COVID-19 as Connecticut’s first reopening weekend coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, safety authorities are also sending out reminders about a triple threat that has sadly injured many and cost lives annually.The American Academy of Pediatrics is urging parents and other adults to plan multiple layers of protection to keep children and teens safe around water this spring and summer. This is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic, as children spend more time at home with caregivers who may be distracted by work and other responsibilities. “Drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4, and it’s one of the top causes of death for teens. As children are at home more due to social isolation recommendations, they may have more access to pools, bathtubs, and other sources of water – all of which pose a drowning risk,” said pediatrician Ben Hoffman, MD, FAAP, chair of the AAP Council on Injury, Violence & Poison Prevention.“Families may also be visiting lakes, rivers or other open bodies of water as a way to get outdoors while still maintaining physical distance to reduce the spread of coronavirus. We have to make sure that we plan layers of protection to keep children and teens safe around water, wherever they are,” Dr Hoffman said.According to the AAP, the layers of protection should include:*All children and adults should learn to swim. If swim lessons are suspended in your area due to coronavirus, it is important to add other layers of protection until your child can access lessons. *Close, constant, attentive supervision around water is important. Assign an adult ‘water watcher,’ who should not be distracted by work, socializing, or chores. *Around the house, empty all buckets, bathtubs, and wading pools immediately after use. If you have young children, keep the bathroom door closed, and use toilet locks to prevent access. *Pools should be surrounded by a four-sided fence, with a self-closing and self-latching gate. Research shows pool fencing can reduce drowning risk by 50%. Additional barriers can include door locks, window locks, pool covers and pool alarms.*Adults and older children should learn CPR. *Everyone, children and adults, should wear US Coast Guard-approved life jackets whenever they are in open water, or on watercraft. *Parents and teens should understand how using alcohol and drugs increases the risk of drowning while swimming or boating. “We can’t drown-proof kids, and so planning layers of protection is the best way to protect all children around water,” Dr. Hoffman said.For more AAP resources on drowning prevention CLICK HEREThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued guidance on public pools, hot tubs and water parks during COVID-19. To review those resources CLICK HEREPlan For Safe GrillingWhile New Englanders prepare to gather around the grill this Memorial Day weekend, it’s important that grills are used properly.Before bringing out portable appliances and firing up the grill, ask yourself, is your barbecue zone as safe as it can be for visiting little ones - or your own?Recently, the Farm Bureau Financial Services reached out to remind consumers that every year, way too many kids show up at the emergency room suffering grill-related injuries. They may look cool, but charcoal and gas grills can stay hot for hours after cooking, and it only takes a second to inflict a serious burn, according to the bureau. Having a fire extinguisher and knowing how to use it is also important. REMEMBER — even small fires can spread quickly so the biggest concern is ALWAYS getting yourself and others to safety - then calling for help.Here’s a few more safety pointers from FBFS:*Locate your grill should be on a flat surface and not be at risk for moving, sliding or toppling over.*Use proper charcoal starter fluid, NOT gasoline or kerosene. *Keep starter fluid capped and away from your grill. *Don’t add starter fluid to hot coals. *Wait 48 HOURS before disposing of charcoal and ashes. *Avoid grilling while intoxicated; you might be tempted to partake in the festivities, but save your merrymaking until after the crew has been fed.The Propane Gas Association of New England (PGANE) also recommends:*From assembly, to use, maintenance, cleaning, or storage, your grill manufacturer’s instructions are your go-to resource for safe grilling.*Keep your grill at least 5-10 feet from the house on a level surface clear of all furniture, overhead trees, or other potential fire hazards.*Use soapy water to check connections for leaks. Expanding bubbles indicate a leak. Follow this procedure every time you replace a cylinder.*Always keep the lid open and don’t lean over the grill when lighting it.*Propane tanks should NEVER be stored indoors or in an enclosed area like a basement, garage, or shed.*Be Present. Stay close and never leave your grill unattended.Choose A Designated DriverMemorial Day Weekend historically marks an increase in drunk driving injuries and deaths, and as businesses begin to reopen across the country, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is urging everyone to always make a plan for a non-drinking driver before leaving home.Every year, about 37 percent of all traffic deaths over Memorial Day Weekend are caused by drunk driving. Connecticut has the third highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol and/or drugs in the country, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.The combination of the three-day holiday weekend and easing of restrictions is expected to put more cars on the road as people begin to venture out after months of isolation.“We know life is different for all of us this year. Stay-at-home orders have meant fewer tragedies on our roads,” said MADD National President Helen Witty. “While we can only hope that this trend continues, the fact is that we don’t know what to expect. We do know that even during the pandemic, drunk driving hasn’t stopped.”Drunk driving is the leading killer on America’s roads, claiming more than 10,000 lives and injuring more than 300,000 people every year. In addition, law enforcement reports an increase in drivers with both alcohol and drugs in their system — a deadly combination.“This Memorial Day Weekend, as we honor our nation’s heroes who sacrificed their lives to save ours, let’s not diminish their valiant actions by making choices that cause senseless, 100 percent preventable tragedies,” Witty said.This weekend also marks the start of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s annual “Click it or Ticket” campaign. Law enforcement will be out checking to make sure motorists are buckled. As conditions allow, MADD is teaming up with law enforcement virtually and in-person to support the efforts of law enforcement officers, whose work has not stopped.MADD also has been providing supportive services virtually to victims of drunk and drugged driving throughout the pandemic.MADD’s helpline is always available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 877-MADD-HELP.

Grilling, Swimming, Driving A Triple Threat This Memorial Day Weekend John Voket Story Grilling, Swimming, Driving A Triple Threat This Memorial Day Weekend Grilling, Swimming, Driving A Triple Threat This Memorial Day Weekend Featured Slider, Features, Health, News None

Education

Rain, Rain, Go Away: Hawley Drawings Want To Stay

Rain, Rain, Go Away: Hawley Drawings Want To Stay Chalk drawings to thank Hawley School teachers and support staff have colored the sidewalk along one side of the school. They doodled, they drew, they sketched, and they colored — and volunteers and members of the Hawley School PTA created a mosaic of chalk drawings covering a nearly 150-foot stretch of sidewalk running along the east side of the Church Hill Road school.“The PTA organized a staff appreciation week for Hawley School for this week to show them how much we care about them and miss them during this distance learning period,” PTA President Jenn Padilla told The Newtown Bee in an e-mail.The artists were mostly adults, Padilla said, “but there were some kids who helped their parents, as well. We literally captured every single group or person in the building by design. We are a huge family at Hawley and wanted to make sure every single person felt the love.”Ranging from elegant and elaborate to simple and heartfelt, the group of room parents and volunteers (“The drawings were done by scheduling people to come at staggered times Sunday, [May 17], through [Tuesday morning, May 19] to ensure we kept to social distancing guidelines,” according to Padilla) decorated the walkway with chalk drawings and messages, “... we even drew things for areas like custodial and security and cafe workers, all expressing how much we appreciate and miss them,” Padilla said.The artwork will be viewable — until the rain washes it away. The appreciation for Hawley staff, though, will be everlasting.Anyone hoping to visit the drawings should practice social distancing from others, and wear a face mask.

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Sports

LEC Names WCSU All-Academic Team Students

A Newtown woman is among 29 WCSU student athletes recognized for academics.

Sports

NHS Wrestlers Named to NHSCA 2020 High School Academic All-Americans

NHS Wrestlers Named to NHSCA 2020 High School Academic All-Americans The National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA) announced May 8 the 2020 High School Academic All-Americans for the 2019-2020 school year, including four NHS students. The National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA) announced May 8 the 2020 High School Academic All-Americans for the 2019-2020 school year. This marks the 27th year in which the NHSCA has honored those who triumph in and out of the classroom.Congratulations to Newtown High School athletes Steven Leuci, Luca Manfredi, Fritz Maurath and Steven Vournazos for being awarded this honor. Nominated by Coach Mike Long, all four are NHS wrestlers, carried a 3.9 GPA, and placed in the Connecticut state tournament this season.The CEO of NHSCA, Bobby Ferraro stated “These student-athletes are leaders in and out of the classroom and are the future leaders of tomorrow. We are proud to deem them Academic All Americans.”NHS Wrestling is proud of the student athletes as they excel on the mat and in the classroom.Only 90 Academic All-Americans from 25 states were awarded this year across the US, with four from Newtown and all from one sport.Luca was one of only eight freshman; Leuci was one of only 19 juniors; Fritz and Vournazos were two of only 50 seniors.Connecticut led the country with 18 total awards.

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Sports

Athlete Profile: Jack Wojtowicz

Sports

A Long Walk For A Good Cause

A Long Walk For A Good Cause Three NHS golfers had a successful 72-hole day of golfing to raise money for The Connecticut Food Bank.Anyone on the Rock Ridge Country Club golf course, Tuesday, May 12, may have felt like they were seeing the same golfers — over and over again. But it was simply a trio of youthful golfers on a special mission.For nearly twelve hours, from 7:45 am to 7 pm, Newtown High School Golf Team members Trevor Hislop, Alex Walton, and James Celentano played 72 holes, walking 18 miles altogether, to raise money for The Connecticut Food Bank — a long hike wearing regulation golf shoes.“Our legs are sore,” Trevor admitted on Wednesday morning.Finding himself bored with quarantine, Trevor came up with the idea of a golf marathon and “ran it across my friends.” He wanted to not only alleviate the dullness of social distancing, but to find something good to do. A golf marathon to support The Connecticut Food Bank resonated with the three high school golfers, and when they approached the board of the Rock Ridge Country Club in Newtown, their idea was embraced.“Everyone there was so supportive,” said Trevor. The team set up a GoFundMe site and began raising money. They also pitched a secondary means to support the effort, with donors being asked to donate $5 for every birdie the golfers would make on Tuesday.So on the very windy May 12, the threesome set out to golf, golf, and golf some more so that others in need could benefit from their efforts.“It was tough conditions,” because of the capricious weather, Trevor said, “but a fun day.”They did not disappoint any of the donors, including those who were paying for any birdies made during the marathon.“We had one chip in birdie by James Celentano,” Trevor reported, “and Alex made two, and I made three birdies.”As of Wednesday morning, the golfers had raised over $5,300 dollars. “We had people who said they wanted to take the birdie challenge, and we made a good amount off of that,” he said.A golf marathon was “completely new to me,” said Trevor, but one he feels was highly successful.They will continue to accept donations through Saturday, May 16. To donate, visit GoFundMe.com, search “Hislop.” One hundred percent of the money raised goes to The Connecticut Food Bank.

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Sports

Athlete Profile: Thomas Tavar

Today's Events

May 25, 2020

MEMORIAL DAY

May 25, 2020 at 12:00 am

Holiday Closures

All town offices are closed for Memorial Day. USPS mail is not delivered this day.

The office of The Newtown Bee will be closed May 25. The office opens again at 8 am on Tuesday, May 26. Please knock or call the front office at 203-426-3141 before entering. All visitors will be asked to wear face masks.

Call local businesses and restaurants for any special holiday hours before going.

May 25, 2020 at 12:01 am

Weaving Newtown **CANCELED**

Due to Memorial Day, this week’s class has been canceled.

~~Newtown Congregational Church (lower level/classrooms), 14 West Street~~

~~Weavers of all abilities invited, group meets weekly~~; weavingnewtown@gmail.com.

May 25, 2020 at 06:00 pm

Fairfield Hills Authority meeting **CANCELED**

Due to the Memorial Day holiday, this meeting has been canceled.

~~Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street~~

May 25, 2020 at 07:00 pm

Special Editions

Court Blocks Fraudulent Business From Operating In State

Police Reports | May 11-17, 2020

Hi, nice article about minor league baseball. My great uncle Buck (John) Morrison played for New London 1900, Meriden 1901-1902 and Hartford 1902-1903. Just recently found articles of his actual playing days. I was raised in same house in Somerville MA but never saw or found anything from his playing days. Just hope somebody can point me in right direction to find material on my great uncle. Thanks

Connecticut has been home to literally dozens of minor league baseball team

My husband was very proud to be a part of this incredibly strong community. We lived in Sandy Hook, and called Shady Rest home. He was well known and loved by many during our 30 years living here. Many of you may not have known him personally but knew of him as he drove everywhere, everyday in his 1931 Model A chopped top street rod complete with Oogah horn! Please remember him as he was before these past 4 years that had him in and out of hospitals, nursing homes and hospice care. He was a loving, devoted and proud husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was always willing to help anyone/everyone. I love him, I miss him - my soulmate, my Forever Love and Best Friend.

Lawrence Kozek

To Arlene and the Kimball family we grieve for your loss. In every way, Bill defined what it was to be "good man". Thank you, Bill, for all the good times; we will miss you. Maureen & Tom Armstrong

William George Kimball

Thanks very much for these daily updates. I think the Bee, town officials, organizations and businesses are all doing a great job. I have not seen anything about whether anyone in Newtown who has had the virus has yet fully recovered? It seems like by now that there might be some who have. Thanks again.

Newtown COVID-19 Cases Trending Up In Nursing, Assisted Living Centers As Statewide Hospitalization

FUN rocks! Thank you to the Jones family, volunteers and mentors for the awesome things you do. Looking forward to seeing you again soon... Be well. Stay safe. Spread only Hope.

Connections Made, The FUN Way

Drop-Off Day Heads Off A Deluge Of Returns At Library

Children In School Meals Program Getting Emergency SNAP Benefits

Pick Up Your Spaghetti Dinner, At NUMC

Drop-Off Day Heads Off A Deluge Of Returns At Library

Ambulance Reports | May 14-20, 2020

Fire Reports | May 14-20, 2020

Children In School Meals Program Getting Emergency SNAP Benefits

Pick Up Your Spaghetti Dinner, At NUMC

A Little Bit Of The Nation’s Capital For St Rose Eighth Grade Students

The Top Of The Mountain

Grilling, Swimming, Driving A Triple Threat This Memorial Day Weekend

Rain, Rain, Go Away: Hawley Drawings Want To Stay

LEC Names WCSU All-Academic Team Students

NHS Wrestlers Named to NHSCA 2020 High School Academic All-Americans

Athlete Profile: Jack Wojtowicz

A Long Walk For A Good Cause

Athlete Profile: Thomas Tavar

Guide To Newtown 2020

Holiday Gift Guide 2019

For Better Health October 2019

Home & Garden Fall 2019

The Newtown Bee's Back To School Guide 2019

For Better Health May 2019

Home & Garden Spring 2019

Home & Garden Spring 2018

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

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Drop-Off Day Heads Off A Deluge Of Returns At Library

Children In School Meals Program Getting Emergency SNAP Benefits

Pick Up Your Spaghetti Dinner, At NUMC

Drop-Off Day Heads Off A Deluge Of Returns At Library

Ambulance Reports | May 14-20, 2020

Fire Reports | May 14-20, 2020

Children In School Meals Program Getting Emergency SNAP Benefits

Pick Up Your Spaghetti Dinner, At NUMC

A Little Bit Of The Nation’s Capital For St Rose Eighth Grade Students

The Top Of The Mountain

Grilling, Swimming, Driving A Triple Threat This Memorial Day Weekend

Rain, Rain, Go Away: Hawley Drawings Want To Stay

LEC Names WCSU All-Academic Team Students

NHS Wrestlers Named to NHSCA 2020 High School Academic All-Americans

Athlete Profile: Jack Wojtowicz

A Long Walk For A Good Cause

Athlete Profile: Thomas Tavar

Guide To Newtown 2020

Holiday Gift Guide 2019

For Better Health October 2019

Home & Garden Fall 2019

The Newtown Bee's Back To School Guide 2019

For Better Health May 2019

Home & Garden Spring 2019

Home & Garden Spring 2018

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