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Family, Friends Mourning Death Of 'Newtown Bee' Publisher R. Scudder Smith

Operational Strategies Related To Pandemic Released For 2022-23 School Year

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Family, Friends Mourning Death Of 'Newtown Bee' Publisher R. Scudder Smith The Smith family announces with sadness the passing of R. Scudder Smith, publisher of The Newtown Bee and founder and publisher of Antiques and The Arts Weekly. A Newtown native, he was 87.The Smith family announces with sadness the passing of R. Scudder Smith on August 14, 2022; he was 87 years old.Born on April 12, 1935, Robert Scudder Smith was the elder son of Paul Scudder Smith and Mary Starr Conger Smith, and older brother to Mary Starr Adams and Ted Smith.He attended his father’s alma mater, Amherst College, briefly, in 1953 but in 1954, he enlisted for three years with the United States Marine Corps, where he trained as a navigator at Cherry Point, N.C. There, he met and married Helen Willis, settling in upstate New York in 1957 where he attended Union College in Schenectady, N.Y.Scudder’s family company has owned Bee Publishing Company Inc. and published The Newtown Bee for 141 of its 145 years. Scudder worked at the paper beginning in 1961; he succeeded his father Paul as editor in 1972. On June 28, 2022 — the 145th anniversary of the first issue of The Newtown Bee's publication — local luminaries, including Newtown’s First Selectman, Newtown's delegation to the Connecticut Legislature, both of Connecticut’s US Senators, and the Fifth District US Congresswoman honored The Newtown Bee for its longevity, and celebrated Scudder and his family’s love for and dedication to the community.Scudder’s passion for antiques manifested in The Newtown Bee sister paper, Antiques and The Arts Weekly, which he founded in 1963 and began as four pages of antiques coverage in The Newtown Bee. It has covered antiques shows, auctions, museum exhibitions and related art-world events since then. In 2006, the Antiques Dealers Association of America (ADA) honored Scudder with its Award of Merit for his contribution to the industry that has been substantially shaped by Antiques and The Arts Weekly.Scudder and Helen began buying antiques during their life in Schenectady, gradually gravitating to folk sculpture, with weathervanes, game boards, whirligigs and carousel figures forming the core of their collection. His collection carried from his home to the office, turning the newspaper's 5 Church Hill Road headquarters into an extended, ever-evolving showcase of his acquistions. A passionate collector, Scudder built up a formidable still bank collection, adding to it even from his hospital bed in his final days.Since 1981, Scudder enjoyed vacationing in Saint Barthelemy in the French West Indies, where he loved hosting family and friends.When he wasn’t chasing antiques or the next story for the paper, Scudder enjoyed creating elaborate gardens designed with vintage structures and garden antiques.Scudder is survived by Helen, his wife of 66 years; son, David Smith, and daughter and son-in-law, Sherri Smith Baggett and Scott Baggett; grandsons Benjamin and Gregory Smith and their spouses, and Scudder and Judd Baggett and their spouses; and six great-grandchildren, as well as friends and colleagues both local and around the world.A wake will be held at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street in Newtown, on Thursday, August 18, 5 to 8 pm. A funeral service will take place at Newtown Meeting House, 31 Main Street in Newtown, at 10 am Friday, August 19. Interment will follow at Newtown Village Cemetery, 20 Elm Drive.A more extensive obituary will be featured in the August 19, 2022 print edition of The Newtown Bee.

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Family, Friends Mourning Death Of 'Newtown Bee' Publisher R. Scudder Smith

The Smith family announces with sadness the passing of R. Scudder Smith, publisher of The Newtown Bee and founder and publisher of Antiques and The Arts Weekly. A Newtown native, he was 87.

News

Wetlands Panel Reviews Mt Pleasant Road Apartments Proposal

Wetlands Panel Reviews Mt Pleasant Road Apartments Proposal Newtown Inland Wetlands Commission (IWC) had an in-depth discussion about apartments being proposed on Mt Pleasant Road during its meeting at Newtown Municipal Center on July 27. Newtown Inland Wetlands Commission (IWC) had an in-depth discussion about apartments being proposed on Mt Pleasant Road during its meeting at Newtown Municipal Center on July 27.IWC members present were chair Sharon Salling, Craig Ferris, Mike McCabe, Suzanne Guidera, and Scott Jackson, as well as the town’s Senior Land Use Enforcement Officer Steve Maguire.Before going into the public hearing portion of the meeting, Salling had the guidelines and procedures read aloud to let the public know what conduct is appropriate.She noted that after the applicant presents, the commission will give feedback, then the public will be allowed to ask questions.“We are going to have a three-minute time limit on the public speaking this evening. Everyone will have a chance to be heard. If not tonight, then at the subsequent meeting,” Salling said.She emphasized that the IWC deals specifically with wetlands and waterways regulations. They are precluded from considering or commenting on anything other than that, such as wells, aquifers, traffic, lighting, or building design, Salling explained.The proposal being discussed at length was IW Application #22-14 by Farrell Building Company. It is for a property located at 90 Mt Pleasant Road, to construct 11 Garden Apartment buildings, one clubhouse, and associated site improvements including driveways, parking, and stormwater management.Salling mentioned to the public, “I also do want to let you know that Land Use Agency [received] a verified petition to intervene from a resident, Pat Napolitano. Unfortunately, he is not able to be with us this evening and will attend the next meeting.”The IWC motioned to accept Patrick Napolitano’s position as an intervenor. All were in favor except commissioner Guidera, according to the meeting minutes.Representing the applicant was Newtown Attorney Robert Hall. He shared that the property was previously approved by the IWC in 2018 for medical office buildings, “which had a lot more impacts on the wetlands than our proposal here.”Hall informed the commission that he has submitted multiple documents about the 2018 approved application, resumes for the JMC LLC staff for the current proposal project, as well as a request for the IWC to deny Patrick Napolitano’s intervenor status.He noted Principal Soil Scientist James McManus, MS, CPSS, has submitted a report for the Mt Pleasant Road property.In addition to Hall, JMC LLC Principal James Ryan, RLA, and Design Manager Paul Dumont, PE, represented the applicant. The latter two gave a PowerPoint presentation.Ryan started off by mentioning how the Farrell Building Company has previously constructed apartments in Sandy Hook, referring to the complex off Washington Avenue. He said those are “fully occupied and doing quite well.”The application’s 90 Mt Pleasant Road property is 33.2 acres in size and located east of the intersection of Hawleyville Road, Ryan said.“The site was previously farmland. There are remnants of a house on there,” he said. There is also an asphalt driveway still on-site.Ryan added, “There is a [Federal Emergency Management Agency] flood line on that, too … I point that out only because this was documented from a FEMA mapping.”He said that the overall layout of the plan takes advantage of the natural slopes of the land. “The buildings are in two rows essentially,” Ryan said.He noted that the proposed plans have no direct impact on the wetlands, besides a “pocket wetland.”Stormwater ManagementDumont took over the next part of the PowerPoint presentation to discuss the stormwater management system planned after analyzing the topography of the property.“We established two different design points where water currently enters the wetlands system now. That was the basis of our design,” he said. What they are proposing to do is have stormwater runoff in the area go into two basins.“We’re providing water quality treatment through the infiltration basins,” Dumont said. Then, coming out of the basins, they have two conduit level spreaders.“We designed [an] erosion sediment control plan for the site that will try to mitigate any potential impact to the wetlands, the transfer of sediment, erosion, and try to protect the buffer of the wetlands,” Dumont said.It will have construction access, silt fencing, swales, check dams, as well as temporary sediment basins. Hall then spoke to the comparisons of the current proposed project and the previously approved application in 2018.The previous plan had “close to 12 acres of hard, impervious surfaces,” where the majority of that was for the roughly 1,200 parking spaces, he explained.“The current proposal is for 7.3 acres, so it’s a reduction in the impervious area on the property,” Hall said.Soil AnalysisMcManus stated he originally set flags on the property in 2015, then a delineation was done by Davis Environmental in 2018.“I subsequently did another visit in March of this year just to re-familiarize myself with the site and also to add some additional photographs … of the site to update our records,” he said.McManus said the wetlands are in the western part of the site and a swamp is in the southern portion.According to the on-site investigation report, “This +/- 34.25-acre site is currently undeveloped with a mix of dense shrubby areas and forested upland and wetland areas, which include an intermittent watercourse … The soil types were found to be undisturbed and disturbed. The disturbed soils were observed mainly in the southern portions of the site adjacent to Mount Pleasant Road and in the vicinity of the recently removed single-family residence.”The document goes on to state, “Typical vegetation observed within the regulated areas include such species as red maple, American elm, yellow birch, Japanese barberry, multiflora rose, honeysuckle, silk dogwood, autumn olive, skunk cabbage, soft rush, sensitive fern, jewelweed, tussock sedges, fringe sedge, Canada mayflower, stinging nettle, Asiatic bittersweet, goldenrods, and poison ivy to name a few.”McManus concluded his detailed report by saying that “with diligent monitoring of the erosion sediment controls there will be no significant adverse short-term or long-term impacts on wetland resources or functions.”Commission FeedbackMcCabe wanted to know more about the stormwater management plan, specifically about the flows going into each of two retention basins.Dumont read through a portion of the submitted plan. To confirm, McCabe asked, if there is no additional flow going into the wetlands, is there a reduction in flow to the wetlands?Dumont said there is a reduction in the volume, but not the rate of flow. Salling said her concern was if the hydrology is reduced to certain areas, they might dry up.Dumont replied, “The volumes are being maintained, we don’t want to deplete the volume into the wetlands … the rates are reduced.”Salling then inquired if McManus was satisfied with the plans to preserve the wetland hydrology, and he responded that he was satisfied.Ferris asked if fertilizers will be used and how it will affect the water quality. Ryan said there will be a management treatment plan that Farrell would have to maintain.Guidera queried, “Have you given any consideration to removing the invasive species in and around the wetland area?”Ryan said they can develop a program.Town InputMaguire started off by saying that he had a few questions.To McManus, he asked, “Obviously that small pocket wetland came up. Are you confident the rest of the site — I know it’s very overgrown — that there are no other wetland resources that are missed?”McManus said, “I gave it my best shot. With a site this dense, it’s hard to say. But I will say, I did my best.”When discussing the topic of erosion, Maguire wanted to know if the team is confident that the basins will “adequately recharge the area and maintain the hydrology.”McManus and Ryan agreed they were confident. Maguire then asked if there is a spec sheet of the composition of the basin.Dumont said it is outlined in the landscaping plan and that the basin is not stone-lined. Ryan noted that the slopes will be mowed annually to ensure no tree growth.When asked if the project would be done in phases, Dumont said it would not be phased.Public ParticipationPond Brook Road resident Gary Tannenbaum expressed his concerns about the project impacting the Pond Brook aquifer.“Pond Brook aquifer constantly is getting lower and lower because of all the development upstream, like Covered Bridge. We keep having these ‘great’ systems to infiltrate the ground and we know systems fail,” he said.Tannenbaum recommended they put in a condition to future tenants to maintain the hydrodynamic separators and infiltration basins.He added, “This [project] comparison between 2018 and 2022, I totally ignore, because the project in 2018 was for two parcels combined. They are not showing the two parcels combined and what you approved.”As his three-minute time limit went off, Tannenbaum concluded that he has updates to recommend to help the project.Newtown resident Michael Crisculo asked the commission if this application will “protect/preserve the natural habitats, minimize pollution, protect the water supply, and prevent damage to the environment to erosion, as well as protect wildlife and vegetation, per regulation 1.1?”He said that the last engineering assessment appears to have been done in 2018 and that the IWC has the authority to have an independent assessment done. He believes doing one would be necessary to have the most up-to-date engineering to make an informed decision.Crisculo brought up more concerns, including about the project’s impact on wells, but was informed by Salling that the topic was not applicable to the IWC.A full list of his concerns is recorded in a letter attached to the meeting minutes.Newtown resident Mark D’Amico submitted a notarized “Verified Petition to Intervene” document, and a document for the record, titled “Newtown Commons Potential Stream and Wetland Impacts,” dated July 18, 2022.D’Amico stated that this project is not looking to improve the wetlands, but to work around it. He cited how the slope on-site creates a lot of surface water and it would be impacted with the creation of the impervious surfaces.He voiced that the plans show inconsistencies, specifically that wetlands identified in 2015 are not included on the applicant’s plans.“The plans are effectively inaccurate, and I think there is definitely consideration to be made there,” D’Amico said. He, too, asked the commission to get a third party to verify the information since there is “conflicting evidence.”D’Amico suggested that just because they cannot see an area does not preclude them from reporting on it. With that all in mind, Salling said that the commission will continue the public participation to the next meeting.The public hearing will continue to the next regularly scheduled IWC meeting on Wednesday, August 24, at 7:30 pm, in the Council Chambers at the Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street.For more information, visit newtown-ct.gov/inland-wetlands-commission.Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.

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Education

Operational Strategies Related To Pandemic Released For 2022-23 School Year

Operational Strategies Related To Pandemic Released For 2022-23 School Year The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), the State Department of Education (CSDE), and the Office of Early Childhood released new guidance for the 2022-23 school year. The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), the State Department of Education (CSDE), and the Office of Early Childhood released new guidance for the 2022-23 school year on August 2, which allowed local plans to be finalized.Following the release of two state strategy documents, Superintendent of Schools Chris Melillo said Newtown has a multi-layered approach planned to mitigate COVID-19 infection transmission rates.Some strategies utilized last year will continue this year, such as increased outside air filtration and protocols around cleaning and disinfecting, according to Melillo.Two big changes the superintendent noted are that test kits, per the state, will be available throughout the year.Another change is, one of the new guidelines says if a student has symptoms, even if they test negative for COVID-19, they shall wear a mask in school. Wearing masks daily is otherwise optional in Newtown public schools.While Melillo said Newtown’s school nurses are not allowed to test students on school grounds, families can be handed test kits and those tests can be conducted at home.Vaccination clinics are being planned in town for the whole community in conjunction with Griffin Hospital of Derby, according to Melillo, and those locations and dates will be announced.“We’ve been following the CDC guidelines, and I think we are in a good place,” Melillo said, adding that the situation around COVID-19 is fluid and the district will address changes to ensure that students are in school and to maintain a healthy environment for hall.The state-released guidance, called “Launching into Healthy Learning” shared two documents with guidance: “Launching into Healthy Learning Operation Strategies, Fall 2022” and “Launching into Healthy Learning, Fall 2022 Respiratory Disease Prevention Strategies for School, Childcare, and Camps: Continuing forward to support in-person learning and childcare.”“Since the start of the 2021 school year, we have administered thousands of COVID-19 vaccines to children throughout the state and we have distributed millions of self-test kits — these have all been major game changers in the fight against COVID-19,” said Governor Ned Lamont in a release. “The goal with Launching into Healthy Learning is to maintain in-person learning for our children as much as possible and to keep them healthy and learning all year long.”“We continue to drive home the message that all the tools are in place to combat this virus. Our toolbox includes vaccines, first and second boosters, Test to Treat locations, therapeutics, self-tests and state-supported testing,” said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, in the release. “Our key strategies for the school year include starting healthy with vaccination, maximizing in-person learning with symptom awareness and at-home testing, and using available prevention tools, primarily the CDC Community Levels Map.”“As we launch into a new school year, we are working diligently with our partner state agencies and stakeholders to ensure all our students and staff can return to healthy, safe, and enriching in-person learning,” said Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker in the release. “The CSDE is looking forward to providing support to our districts throughout the upcoming school year to ensure uninterrupted student attendance and engagement, ultimately leading to student growth and success!”One part of the “Launching into Healthy Learning Operation Strategies, Fall 2022” document shared a new “Test-Mask-Go” strategy that Newtown will be using.As described in the document, the Test-Mask-Go strategy is designed to increase the number of days of in-person learning and care available to children, both to improve the social/emotional/physical well-being of students, staff, and their families and to enhance learning recovery.The fall and spring allergy seasons combined with New England winters present a challenge for schools, child care, and youth camp facilities, which were advised in previous years to exclude individuals from in-person attendance if they had any of a long list of symptoms associated with COVID-19, the document reads.Schools, child care programs, and camp operators choosing to utilize a Test-Mask-Go strategy can give children and staff with mild respiratory disease symptoms (e.g., infrequent cough, congestion, runny nose, sore throat, etc.) the option to continue participating in person provided:*they are fever-free (< 100°F) and feel well enough to participate,*they do not live with anyone who has had COVID-19 in the past 2 weeks,*they can wear a mask consistently and correctly (if facility operators require them to do so), and*they test negative for COVID-19 prior to reporting in person on every day they have symptoms, as well as one final test on the morning their symptoms have completely resolved.The document continues to outline that individuals who have any respiratory disease symptoms should not use the Test-Mask-Go strategy if:*they have a fever greater than 100°F or feel feverish (they should not report in person until their fever has resolved for at least 24 hours without the use of medication), and*they live with a person who recently tested positive for COVID-19 (within the past 2 weeks.“Instead, these individuals should stay home until their symptoms resolve and test for COVID-19. Anyone testing positive for COVID-19 should complete isolation according to the CDC Q/I Calculator. School, child care, or youth camp administrators or health staff who have questions regarding Test-Mask-Go should contact DPH.EPI@ct.gov,” the document reads.Education Editor Eliza Hallabeck can be reached at eliza@thebee.com.

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News

Roussas Returns To Board Of Finance

Roussas Returns To Board Of Finance Following a vacancy, Republican Sandy Roussas has returned to the Board of Finance. Following the departure of Republican Geoffrey Dent, the Board of Finance has named former BOF Chair Sandy Roussas to fill the vacancy. Roussas was a member of the BOF from 2015 until 2021. She was previously the chair, and was serving as vice-chair during her last term with the BOF.“I am happy to be joining the Board of Finance again and thank the members for their votes of confidence at Monday’s meeting,” said Roussas. “I look forward to working with them to be good stewards of Newtown taxpayer dollars.”Roussas is a partner with law firm Stockman, O’Connor, and Connors, and a graduate of the Quinnipiac University School of Law.She has lived in Newtown for 19 years with her husband, and the couple have two school-aged children.In a candidate profile for the 2019 election, Roussas wrote that as a Board of Finance member she would “continue to work hard in balancing our community needs, which include maintaining a competitive school system, smart investment in our town, and insulation from state budgetary issues. Newtown needs sustainability to weather the challenges that lay ahead and I pledge to work hard to ensure that the Board of Finance remains a valuable partner with the other governing boards to meet those challenges. I’ve lived in Newtown for the majority of my adult life, and I’ve built my familial foundations here — I am committed to seeing our town thrive and prosper.”BOF Chairman John Madzula II said that Roussas is “very knowledgeable, experienced, and welcome.” He said Roussas had been chosen “after serious vetting” for a candidate to replace Dent.“I’m happy [Roussas is] coming back,” said Madzula. “Thank you for stepping up and helping, it means a lot.”BOF member Chandravir Ahuja said that about a year ago, Roussas was the one who nominated him to fill an open vacancy. He said he appreciated her “mentoring and assistance in the on-boarding process.”Associate Editor Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.

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News

Fire Reports | August 3-9, 2022

Fire Reports | August 3-9, 2022 Fire calls and their responders in Newtown, Conn., for the period of August 3 to August 9, 2022. The dispatchers at the Newtown Emergency Communications Center, at 191 South Main Street, report the following fire calls and the responders:Wednesday, August 3: 8:29 am, service call, Main Street/Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder covered; 9:03 am, fire alarm, Glen Road, Sandy Hook and Hook & Ladder responded; 11:34 am, motor vehicle accident (MVA) with injury, Berkshire Road/High Rock Road, Sandy Hook responded; 6:24 pm, fire alarm, Hundred Acres Road, Dodgingtown responded; 9:16 pm, fire alarm, Taunton Hill Road, Hook & Ladder responded.Thursday, August 4: 12:03 am, smoke/odor investigation, Berkshire Road/Bradley Lane, Sandy Hook responded; 11:48 am, wires burning/arcing, Pond Brook Road, Hawleyville responded; 7:02 pm, service call, Main Street/Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder covered.Friday, August 5: 9:12 am, cover assignment, Bagburn Road, Monroe, Sandy Hook, Hook & Ladder, Botsford, and Hawleyville covered; 9:21 am, medical assist, Fox Run Lane, Hawleyville responded; 1:27 pm, appliance fire, Riverside Road, Sandy Hook and Hook & Ladder responded; 7:20 pm, medical assist, Glen Road, Sandy Hook responded; 7:58 pm, fire alarm, Pond Brook Road, Hawleyville responded.Saturday, August 6: 9:30 am, service call, Main Street/Schoolhouse Hill Road, Hook & Ladder covered; 11:12 am, service call, Main Street, Hook & Ladder covered; 11:19 am, CO no symptoms, Taunton Lake Road, Hook & Ladder responded; 11:38 am, fire alarm, Hawleyville Road, Hawleyville responded; 12:54 pm, medical assist, Taunton Hill Road, Hawleyville responded; 1:01 pm, fire alarm, Toddy Hill Road, Botsford, Sandy Hook, and Hook & Ladder responded; 2:27 pm, cover assignment, Huckleberry Road/Greenbush Road, Redding, Dodgingtown responded.Sunday, August 7: 10:47 am, outside fire, Great Ring Road, Sandy Hook responded; 12:57 pm, wires burning/arcing, Alpine Drive/Shadblow Trail, Sandy Hook responded; 4:35 pm, dumpster/debris fire, Pepperidge Road, Dodgingtown responded; 5:45 pm, fire alarm, Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder responded; 7:50 pm, MVA with injury, I-84 East between Exits 10 and 11, Sandy Hook responded; 8:14 pm, tree/wires down, Philo Curtis Road, Sandy Hook responded.Monday, August 8: 2:17 pm, tree/wires down, Riverside Road, Sandy Hook responded; 4:29 pm, tree/wires down, Toddy Hill Road, Botsford responded.Tuesday, August 9: 6:40 am, tree/wires down, Ridge Road, Hook & Ladder responded; 8:35 am, tree/wires down, Valley View Road, Hook & Ladder responded; 9:46 am, medical assist, Deer Trail, Sandy Hook responded; 6:19 pm, fire alarm, Walnut Tree Hill Road, Sandy Hook responded; 7:57 pm, fire alarm, Dodgingtown Road, Dodgingtown responded.

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Features

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

A number of stories were posted to newtownbee.com this past weekend.

Features

The Way We Were

The Way We Were Newtown news of 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125 years ago, from the archives of The Newtown Bee. August 8, 1997EDITORIAL INK DROPS — TAKING ON LITTERERS: Last spring, volunteers collected more than 10 tons of litter from Newtown’s roadways. Every day, more trash takes its place, much of it cast from windows of moving motor vehicles by people whose minds are so skewed that they think it is better to mess up the world than the interior of their car. There are, however, even more sinister litterers, who load up their trunks, trucks, or vans with garbage, take it to a remote spot, and dump it on the landscape. Fortunately, the problem has caught the attention of the ordinance committee of Newtown’s Legislative Council. The panel is currently working on a local ordinance that would increase fines for illegal dumping above and beyond the current state levy of $110, as well as provide a mechanism for the town to clean up debris and trash from a property that is being neglected by its owner. … Those who trash Newtown should have to pay dearly.* * * * *Firefighters responded to a 1:17 pm call from a home on Irvin Lane Tuesday and found a blazing 19th Century house that had accidentally been set on fire. Workmen removing old paint from the building with heat guns caused the fire, according to Fire Marshal George Lockwood. The fire caused approximately $130,000 in property damage and related costs, Mr Lockwood said. The attic and second story received extensive damage.* * * * *Newtown Savings Bank has gained Borough Zoning Commission approval to expand its bank at 39 Main Street. Commission members July 31 unanimously approved the bank’s site redevelopment plans which are intended to expand bank facilities while preserving the historic character of Main Street. After the commission’s approval, John Martocci, bank president, said the bank is scheduled to be in its expanded quarters by late fall 1998. The bank has a budget of up to $3 million for design and construction, he said.* * * * *The gardens were being planted at the Mary Hawley Inn on Main Street this week in preparation for the restaurant’s long awaited opening, expected early next month. Jane Vouros was busy planting hosta in front of the restaurant after having dug up the plants from the yard of her home on Taunton Hill Road. Her garden needed thinning, she explained. Nearby, a butterfly flitted through the flowers in the inn’s side yard, where a Rose of Sharon, lilies, black-eyed Susans and other plants are in bloom. Inside the building, workmen were putting up sheetrock, taping the seams, and getting the rooms ready to be repainted.* * * * *Visitors to the Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard’s Open house last Sunday were treated to demonstrations of military horsemanship and enjoyed the troop’s hospitality at its headquarters on the Fairfield Hills campus. The day was hot and humid, but the Horse Guard, which is a ceremonial cavalry unit, and its guest, the Jersey Light Horse Brigade, rose with enthusiasm in a military drill competition. In addition, Horse Guard troopers performed a colorful musical ride and gave a jumping exhibition.August 11, 1972The Charter Revision Commission got some support and some opposition at the public hearing August 9 on its proposed changes in the Newtown Charter. About 30 of Newtown’s citizens were there. There are presently 16,000 residents with over 7,000 of them qualified voters. The suggested changes which brought on major discussion were the restriction of the number of consecutive terms anyone may serve on the same board or commission; the establishment of a centralized maintenance department “to be responsible for the exterior maintenance of all town lands and buildings”; and the establishment of a finance department headed by a finance officer.* * * * *After a delay of almost six weeks because of bad weather, the business of pouring cement for the foundation of the United Methodist Church in Sandy Hook finally got under way on August 8. Weather acted up again on the evening before the pouring, and heavy rains caused muddy water to run down into the excavation beneath the church. Thanks to the help of the Sandy Hook Fire Company, Chief Herb Lewis and Deputy Fire Marshal George Lockwood, the water was pumped out and work started. Thomas Watkins, a member of the church building committee, is arranging for the subcontractors to work on the church. Bobby Morlock of Brookfield is doing the pouring, and when that is finished another phase of the work will begin to see that the church is firmly placed on its new location.* * * * *The complaints of two years regarding acoustical difficulties in the high school auditorium are legitimate ones, and problems do exist. This information was presented to the Board of Education at its meeting Tuesday evening, August 8, by Ralph H. Gibson Jr of the architectural firm of Russell, Gibson and Von Dohlen in West Hartford. Mr Gibson visited the high school and studied the auditorium before coming before the Board of Education. He told the Board on Tuesday evening that the only way the problems could be solved 100 per cent would be by ripping everything apart and starting over with a steel structured shell. Mr Gibson noted this would be impractical and impossible, and he therefore felt that the problems of feedbacks, dead spots and poor articulation could be improved to a degree so that they would be within acceptable design criterion.* * * * *Mr and Mrs Wilbur Briscoe of Walnut Tree Hill left on Tuesday to make their home in Ft Lauderdale, Florida. They will be missed in Newtown, having lived here since 1935 and Mr Briscoe having been associated with the A&P as manager of the store on Main Street for many years. They will be living near their daughter and two sons in Ft Lauderdale.* * * * *The second three-week session of the Newtown Recreation Department’s Day Camp ended for 364 boys and girls on August 5 with a bottle-cap carnival at the Town Park pavilion. Each child was given 20 bottle caps free of charge to use as legal tender. The caps gained admittance to play various games of chance and possibly win some candy. Highlights of the carnival were the sponge throw at the counselors, guess the number of candies in the box, and watermelon eating until seeds were coming out of everyone’s ears.August 8, 1947Last Thursday evening’s program by the Newtown Orchestral Society struck a most responsive chord among its listeners. The capacity house liked it. The informality of the music itself, coupled with the coatlessness of the players, made for a friendly, comfortable, although humid, evening. It was the kind of music its hearers could sit back to and enjoy, even though the musicians were unable to relax to the point of permitting their attention to stray off the page. Program-music may be easy to listen to, but it is a misconception to believe it simple to play.* * * * *One of the best ball games played this season in the Pomperaug Valley League took place Sunday afternoon at Taylor Field, when the Newtown Bees knocked Bethany out of first place position with a 6-5 winning score. Brown pitched exceptionally well for Newtown, allowing the Bethany sluggers only four hits. Howard, on the mound for Bethany, was reached for seven hits by the Newtown batters, headed by Ken Casey who knocked a home run in the first inning to start the scoring.* * * * *Mr and Mrs Paul S. Smith spent the week-end visiting their son, Scudder, at Camp Agawam on Crescent Lake, Maine, and their daughter, Mary Starr, at Camp Kuwiyan on Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith, N.H. Dr and Mrs A.C. DeGraff and son, Chris, of Hawleyville, also spent the week-end at Camp Agawam, visiting their son, Eric, who is in camp there. The visitors enjoyed the activities of the annual Parents’ Week-End.* * * * *Mrs Anna Leahy returned last Friday from a two weeks’ vacation with her daughter, Emily, and her son-in-law, Ralph Perkins, at their summer camp at North Waterford, Maine. While there, Mrs Perkins and Mrs Leahy, while sitting on the front lawn were visited by a full-grown black bear. Deer are abundant in the locality and many ramble over the Perkins property.* * * * *Among Newtown enthusiasts who attended the Hambletonian stage at Goshen, N.Y., on Wednesday were Mrs Sarah Mitchell, “Hub” Beers, Alvin B. Coger and “Bill” Stephens. One member of the party found a 60-to-1 shot very much to his liking in one of the day’s early races.* * * * *Mrs Robert Camp, who has been a patient at the Danbury Hospital for the past six weeks recovering from a heart ailment, returned to her home on the Boulevard last Friday.* * * * *Mr and Mrs Robert Clark of Hawleyville returned to Newtown on Thursday from a week’s trip to visit their son, Alec, who is spending the summer at Camp Kawanahee, Weld, Maine.August 4, 1922Mrs Sylvia M. Lake, widow of the late Lamson B. Lake of Newtown, died on August 1 at Passaic, N.J., aged 80 years. Surviving her are two daughters, Grace Elizabeth and Florence Amelia, and two step-daughters, Mrs F. A. Mallett of Monroe and Mrs W.C. Johnson of Newtown. A brother, Charles E. Beers, of Palestine, also survives her. Funeral services were held in Passaic, N.J., with a brief committal in the Newtown cemetery, Thursday, at 3.30 p.m., when Rev J.L. Lasher officiated.* * * * *Anthony W. Patch of Sandy Hook, familiarly known as “Sam” Patch, died on Monday, at the advanced age of 92 years, four months and 11 days. He is survived by a son, Ezra Patch, of Montreal, Can., and a daughter, Mrs E.A. White, with whom he made his home. In his active days Mr Patch was an expert machinist. He had worked in Danbury, New Milford, Ballston Spa, N.Y., the New York Belting & Packing Co., of Sandy Hook and S. Curtis & Son on Berkshire. A Danbury master mechanic once said of him: “He could make anything. He could take a sledge hammer and make a sewing machine.” It was perhaps an interesting coincidence that Mr Patch died in the same room in which he was born. The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon from the home of E.A. White, Rev J.L. Lasher officiating. The burial was in the Sandy Hook cemetery.* * * * *Paul Meyer and Louis Gompper of New York motored to Dodgingtown, and were guests over the week of Mr and Mrs Gompper, who are passing the summer with Mr and Mrs J.W. Behn.* * * * *THE HOTELS — AT THE PARKER HOUSE: Frank Hines, Lakewood, N.J. Dr and Mrs John J. Bowen, Brooklyn, N.Y. Mrs Ida Sumner, Brooklyn, N.Y. Russell E Sumner, Brooklyn, N.Y. Ralph D. Sumner, Brooklyn, N.Y. Mr and Mrs R.L. Gillespie and son, Brooklyn, N.Y. Mr and Mrs Charles E. McConnell, South Orange, N.J. Mr and Mrs H.J. Nellis, Watertown. Harold S. Horton and family, Bridgeport. Mr and Mrs John Burnett, Passaic. Miss Evelyn Burnett, Passaic, N.J. Mr and Mrs A.H. Patterson, Norwich. T.E. Bowen, Darien.August 13, 1897The N.Y.N.H. & H.R.R. Co. have arranged for another popular rate excursion from this section for Pleasure Beach. The train leaves Newtown at 8.47 a.m., Wednesday August 18. Round trip rate only 50¢. Pleasure Beach is an Island situated about two miles from Bridgeport, connection between the City and the Island by fast steamer “Lenoir,” making hourly trips. Here may be found facilities for salt water bathing, an elegant banquet pavilion, carousel for the children, shaded walks and groves, and other features that go to make up an attractive day sea shore resort.* * * * *Carpenter George A. Northrop has been placing new roofs on his residence. He has also placed new roofs on the ell of E.F. Hawley’s store and made other repairs on the buildings at Printing House Square.* * * * *Mildred K., the infant daughter of Mr and Mrs John Moore of Bridgeport, died at Sandy Hook on Sunday night. Cholera infantum was the cause. The burial was in St Rose’s cemetery.* * * * *HATTERTOWN PERSONAL CHAT: Mrs Monroe Hawkins and child of Danbury are spending two weeks at Ralph Benedict’s. | Mrs Horace Porter of Hebron, is visiting with her daughter, Mrs H.A. Pratt. | Fred Booth of Hartford was a guest of his grandmother, Mrs A. Booth, over Sunday. | Mrs Edgar C. Northrop has been quite sick and under the care of Dr Barber. | Master Willie Lane of Easton is visiting with his brother, Reuben, at Maple Corners. | Mrs Welch and daughter of Meriden has been the guest of her uncle, G.R. Parmelee. | Mrs Mary E. Short of Bethel has been visiting with relatives and friends in this place. | Henry Morgan and son, Charles, are on Long Island for several weeks. | Harold Senior of Bethel is visiting at Charles Benedict’s. | The following have been guests of Miss Pauline Taylor: Mr and Mrs E.J. Smith, Montgomery Smith, Miss Reta Smith, Miss Maggie Devein, Messrs R. and T. Wallbridge and Miss Josephine Briscoe of Danbury. | George Crofutt and Charles L. Youngs of Orange, N.J., are enjoying a two weeks’ outing with their families in this place. | Charles M. Throp entertained company from Bridgeport, Sunday. | Dr C.M. Penny of Bridgeport was a guest of his father, J.W. Penny, over Sunday.Do you have photographs of people or places in town from a bygone era? The Way We Were is the perfect landing spot so that your photographs can be enjoyed by Newtown Bee readers. Images can be e-mailed as attachments to shannon@thebee.com, subject line: Way We Were photo. When submitting photographs, please identify as many people as possible, the location, and the approximate date. If you live locally and would like to loan a photo/photos, please give us a call (203-426-3141) to let us know when you will be visiting.

way we were Story The Way We Were way we were_123 Features, Way We Were None

Features

Troop 70 Leader Chronicles Scouts’ 200-Mile Towpath Ride

Troop 70 Leader Chronicles Scouts’ 200-Mile Towpath Ride Read about the members of Boy Scout Troop 70 of Newtown who completed a physically and mentally demanding bike packed ride over the last few days of June.Editor’s Note: This contributed feature was produced in cooperation with The Newtown Bee and chronicled by the Senior Patrol Leader for Newtown’s BSA Troop 70.Members of Boy Scout Troop 70 of Newtown along with a modest support team completed a physically and mentally demanding bike packed ride over the last few days of June.In total, seven scouts, two scoutmasters, and four parents biked over 200 miles from Cumberland, Maryland to Washington, D.C. via the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. That historic route dates back to the 1800s and parallels the Potomac River.The activity incorporated four days of riding and some limited sight-seeing, and three nights of camping with only what participants were able to comfortably carry on their bikes and in one support vehicle. Each bike with all of its gear weighed between 70-80 pounds.The scouts traveled an average of 50 miles a day attaining speeds up to 25 mph on a trail that was mostly dirt, rock, roots, and gravel.On the first day, June 25, after a six-hour car ride to Cumberland, they biked 28 miles through sweltering heat, experiencing a few minor medical issues that were easily remedied. The scouts and adults had to drink heavily treated iodine water that was brown and did not taste pleasant, but hydration was important.It was the only water available by pump on the trail.The first night was spent at a very remote campsite only accessible by bike. The scouts cooked meals on a single propane stove for the troop and adults. Since they were biking many miles, everyone had to eat and drink more than usual to keep their bodies healthy and strong.Early To Rise...Six o’clock in the morning was the wake up time for most of the trip to be able to get to the next site before dark. After eating oatmeal for a quick and hearty breakfast, it was time to hit the trail.To start day two, the troop had to drop 90% of their weight in the support vehicle for a mile hike up a mountain with their bikes because of a detour on the route. After some great views, there was a daunting mile downhill ride to get back on the trail.As we were on the trail, one scout, Simon Corcoran, said, “My bike fell, but I didn’t!” Towards the end of that second day’s journey of 46 miles, the troop arrived at Fort Frederick State Park in a bad thunderstorm. That night, after setting up a makeshift canopy to make dinner in the pouring rain and exploring the area, they were told that more lightning could strike again.In order to be as safe as possible the troop had to set up their tents under a pavilion.The morning of June 27, the troop had a late start because of more forecasted lightning and heavy rain. Fortunately, the group was actually able to leave earlier than expected when the storm drifted north and away from their intended route.As they arrived at a meeting place overlooking a huge dam, one of the scouts, Connor Sinapi, noticed his tire was flat.Connor, Scoutmaster Matt Corcoran, and scout Michael Lawlor tried their best to fix the problem, but after attempts to repair the tire began cutting into important daytime riding, the group had to move on. Connor mustered on, however, taking one of the spare bikes off the support vehicle while his bike was getting fixed.After a snack, there was another five mile hilly detour and more bike trouble when [the author] Michael Poidomani’s — aka Big Mike’s — chain broke. Luckily, Scoutmaster Tony Barbagallo was able to complete a repair and everyone was able to continue their journey.With 18 miles left on the trail, Scoutmaster Corcoran and “Big Mike” noticed their bike wheels had become damaged because of the rugged trails being traveled. Both bikes had broken spokes and bent rims.At the campsite in Brunswick, by a stroke of luck, a man accompanied by his pet cat was able to obtain a replacement and arrived to change the wheel on Big Mike’s bike. Scoutmaster Corcoran had to make do, however, because the proper wheel size was not available for replacement.Everything turned out well, when, by the end of the day and despite delays, the troop had logged 62 miles — five more than were expected for that leg of the trip.Spinning Into WashingtonThe last day would challenge riders with a 62-mile route that seemed to pass quickly, probably because everyone was eager to get into Washington D.C.On their way, they stopped to see the scenic Great Falls of the Potomac River. There was very little bike trouble on the final leg, and it ended up being just a nice easy ride into the nation’s Capital.The scouts and support team arrived in D.C. very tired, yet proud of each other and themselves. After all the meals that scouts Corcoran, Brady Dunn, Thomas Simms and Tommy Milligan prepared, it was time for the adults to make dinner.They ordered pizza, of course!On Wednesday, June 25, Troop 70 was able to tour the Capitol building thanks to the office of Congresswoman Jahana Hayes. Afterwards, the troop also toured the rest of the Mall on their bikes, on a route that was mapped out by scouts Sinapi and Corcoran.They visited a few museums, many monuments, and paid their respects at the many war memorials around the Mall. As the sun was setting, Corcoran’s bike wheel completely failed — ironically, at the Boy Scout Monument.Nearby, he was able to rent a bike to make it back to where the group was staying for the night.With extreme heat predicted, the troop packed up all their gear and drove by car to Arlington National Cemetery, where they visited the soldiers and others who gave their lives for this country.It was very moving for them to see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. To end their visit in D.C., the troop went to the International Spy Museum, where they got to see very cool spy gadgets and learned about the history of many famous spies.In the end, the seven scouts and six parents reflected happily on the time, effort, and perseverance displayed in planning and carrying out this trip.Troop 70 is especially grateful to Scoutmaster Corcoran for his guidance and support to help the scouts to organize and plan a safe trip. Troop 70 accomplished something many people could not.The troop did an amazing job and never gave up even when scouts and adults got hurt, bikes broke, crazy weather threatened, and when it just seemed too hard to go on. They showed that you can do anything if you put your mind to it and never give up.To learn more about Troop 70, visit t70.trooptrack.com/ .

Troop 70 Leader Chronicles Scouts' 200 Mile Towpath Ride Michael Poidomani Story Troop 70 Leader Chronicles Scouts’ 200-Mile Towpath Ride Troop 70 Leader Chronicles Scouts' 200 Mile Towpath Ride Featured Slider, Features None

Cultural Events

Concert Preview: Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Exhilarating Harmonies Remain Rooted In Its DNA

Concert Preview: Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Exhilarating Harmonies Remain Rooted In Its DNA Read our exclusive preview and chat with Albert Mazibuko of Ladysmith Black Mambazo ahead of the group's August 17 show at The Ridgefield Playhouse.RIDGEFIELD — From the time he was nine until his late teens, having enjoyed singing while working as a farmhand and laborer in South Africa, Mdletshe Albert Mazibuko also performed with his own band.But like many musical start-ups, once he heard what was going on with his cousin, Joseph Shambalala, Albert pulled the plug on his own aspirations and hitched his dreams to the future of an acapella band called Ladysmith Black Mambazo.“I wanted to be in Joseph’s group because they sang so well,” he said, his voice rising with excitement as he chatted with The Newtown Bee ahead of an upcoming August 17 appearance at The Ridgefield Playhouse.“So naturally, I quit my own group,” he said. “And when the others asked why I was leaving, all I could tell them was, ‘Joseph Shambalala is the best, and I want to join him.’ So even though I was singing with others up until then, I was always looking for the chance to join up with Joseph.”Assembled in the early 1960s in South Africa by Joseph — also coincidentally a young farmboy-turned-factory worker — the group took the name Ladysmith Black Mambazo: Ladysmith, the name of Joseph’s hometown; Black being a reference to the oxen, the strongest of all farm animals; and Mambazo being the Zulu word for chopping axe, a symbol of the group’s ability to “chop down” any singing rival who might challenge them.According to the group’s official bio, their collective voices were so tight and their harmonies so polished that by the end of the 1960s, they were banned from the isicathamiya competitions that had made them famous locally. Isicathamiya is a kind of musical style that uses only voices with no instruments, featuring close harmonies and many voices blending different notes at once and including hand movements and tight choreography.A Lifelong Journey“In 1969, Joseph came to me and said ‘You and your brother will help me achieve the mission of Ladysmith Black Mambazo,’” Albert recalled, “and from that moment, I said this is something I want to do for the rest of my life.”At that point, Albert was performing part-time whenever the opportunity presented. And in 1973, an opening in the ensemble turned into the full-time career that keeps Albert thriving today.The group catapulted into American conscience when they collaborated with Paul Simon on his 1986 album Graceland. LBM hasn’t left this country’s conscience, enjoying more recent collaborations with Josh Groban, David Guetta, and Sarah McLachlan. Another high point in the group’s history came upon Nelson Mandela’s release from prison.In 1993, the celebrated leader brought the group along to perform when he received the Nobel Peace Prize, designating them “South Africa’s Cultural Ambassadors to the World.” Up to and since then, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has garnered 19 Grammy noms and 5 Grammy wins, with their most recent album Shaka Zulu Revisited winning for Best World Music Album in 2018.While much of the group’s original songs and eventual recordings were rooted in traditional South African songs that had been sung for generations before, Ladysmith Black Mambazo also benefited from the rapport that comes from family members singing together.From the beginning and on to today, the group included Joseph and his brothers, cousins with the “mission” that took root in 1960 continuing today under the leadership of his sons, Thulani, Thamsanq, Sibongisen, and Msizi Shabalala. Albert also came to the group with his brother Funokwakhe Mazibuko, along with his late brother and another Shambalala cousin, Milton.One Big FamilyToday, Albert still shares the stage with another well-voiced brother, Abednego. The group hitting the Playhouse stage on August 17 is rounded out with Pius Shezi, Sabelo Mthembu, and Mfanafuthi Dlamini. As the oldest surviving member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Albert, now 74, has attained the position of respected elder.“When Joseph handed over leadership to his sons before his retirement, as one of the older people in the group, I was looked at as one who would look after them and give them some guidance,” he said. “Now, when we are cooperating around the music and songwriting, they make it so easy, and they have so much energy. These boys are very talented and I think they inherited that from their father. My job is just to advise them.”Albert said the only advice he was given upon Joseph’s retirement, was to be sure Ladysmith Black Mambazo remained loyal to their trademark harmonies and spirit.“He said that whatever song you write, it has to have the message of encouragement — not a message that you are complaining or saying something that could offend anyone,” Albert recalled. “He said when people are listening to your songs, I want them to hear something that is encouraging them, and that will empower them. So that is my job.“Sometimes when I hear something I believe Joseph would feel is not appropriate, I remind them their father’s mission was to empower everyone who hears this music to live in peace, love, and harmony.”For more information or to purchase a touchless print at home ticket ($55) go to ridgefieldplayhouse.org or call 203-438-5795. The Playhouse is a nonprofit performing arts center at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street.Check out this 2018 video of Ladysmith Black Mambazo from Paste Studios in New York:

Paul Simon and Ladysmith Black Mambazo perform "Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes":

RPH Preview - LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO John Voket Story Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Exhilarating Harmonies Remain Rooted In Its DNA RPH Preview - LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO None

Features

Top Five NewtownBee.Com Stories For July 31-August 6

Top Five NewtownBee.Com Stories For July 31-August 6 A look at the five most-read stories on our website for the week of July 31-August 6, 2022. Each week we compile a list of some of the most-read stories published at newtownbee.com. Here is a roundup of the week’s top stories, based on the number of page reads.Keep up with all the Newtown news by subscribing to the print edition, mailed each week. Click “Subscribe” at newtownbee.com or contact our Circulation Department at subscriptions@thebee.com or 203-426-3141 extension 235 — and check our website for updates.“Anthony Capozziello Elected Chief Of Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue,” by Shannon Hicks, published August 2. Anthony Capozziello was elected the new chief of Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company following a meeting at the volunteer company’s headquarters on Monday, August 1. The special election was required by the company’s bylaws following the death last month of longtime Chief Bill Halstead. Read more at newtownbee.com/08012022/anthony-capozziello-elected-chief-of-sandy-hook-volunteer-fire-rescue.“Kelly Lucas Honored With Celebration Of Life Music Festival,” by Alissa Silber, published August 3. Loved ones of Newtown resident Kelly Lucas gathered at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 308 pavilion for a celebration of her life on Saturday, July 23. Read more at newtownbee.com/08032022/kelly-lucas-honored-with-celebration-of-life-music-festival.“Concert Preview: Warren Haynes, Gov’t Mule Spending An August Saturday With Old Friends At Westville Music Bowl,” by John Voket, published August 5. The Newtown Bee caught up with Grammy winner Warren Haynes while he was on a break from a lengthy tour. Read more at newtownbee.com/08052022/concert-preview-warren-haynes-govt-mule-spending-an-august-saturday-with-old-friends-at-westville.“Hitting It Out Of The Park — Senior Softball Ladies Keep On Playing And Winning,” by Andy Hutchison, published July 31. Sixty and slugging — Ranging in age from 62 to almost 69, a group of four Newtown softball enthusiasts proves that 60-something is the new 20-something when it comes to softball success. Read more at newtownbee.com/07312022/hitting-it-out-of-the-park-senior-softball-ladies-keep-on-playing-and-winning.“P&Z Permits Residential Property Amendment In Sandy Hook,” by Alissa Silber, published August 1. Newtown Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) conducted a brief meeting at Newtown Municipal Center, on July 21, to vote on a text amendment allowing property uses to change. Read more at newtownbee.com/08012022/pz-permits-residential-property-amendment-in-sandy-hook.Education Editor Eliza Hallabeck can be reached at eliza@thebee.com.

Top Five NewtownBee.Com Stories For July 31-August 6 Eliza Hallabeck Story Top Five NewtownBee.Com Stories For July 31-August 6 Top Five NewtownBee.Com Stories For July 31-August 6 Features None

Sports

Ellen Goyda Passes Newtown High Field Hockey Coaching Baton To John Savage Former New York championship coach takes over NHS squad.After two seasons of leading the Newtown High School field hockey team, Ellen Goyda is stepping down and John Savage is taking over. Savage is thrilled to take over a program with talented players.“I instantly fell in love with the town and the kids,” Savage said of Newtown, where he and his wife, Barbara, relocated in 2015 after a life in New York that included decades of coaching (and playing) sports.“It’s been a long journey. I really love it here in Newtown,” said Savage, 71.Savage is not completely new to the Nighthawks’ program, having provided volunteer coaching instruction to players throughout recent years, simply for his passion for teaching the game, he says. He also helped out at the Newtown High School Field Hockey Camp, run by Goyda, at Treadwell Park in late June.“I really love coaching these young ladies. I just like to help out and be around young people and hopefully have a positive impact on their lives,” said Savage, adding that he anticipates Newtown being a top team with which to contend. “If we care about each other the way I think we can we’ll be okay. I’ve seen wonderful things happen to average teams when they play for more than themselves,” Savage added.Championship SuccessIn 26 years of field hockey coaching at Mamaroneck High in New York, Savage won a trio of state championships, took his teams to 17 Section 1 finals appearances (with a dozen Section 1 wins), and won 19 straight league titles.“We benefit because you can’t beat his credentials and his expertise,” said Goyda, who will stay involved with town field hockey at the youth level; she is establishing a middle school program.“I had a lot of help along the way,” said Savage, who attended showcase events and worked hard to learn the game when he first got his feet wet with field hockey. Savage began as a basketball coach and there was a need for a modified (grades 7 and 8) field hockey coach, which led to him ultimately instructing the varsity squad.“I’ve learned that it’s a mental game as well as a physical game. It has to be a team game where personal glory is put aside for team success,” Savage said. “If you want to be a championship program you have to love each other.”Savage has a competitive edge not only influenced by his field hockey-coaching success but also from a low point in his playing days. In his junior campaign in high school at Cardinal Hayes in the Bronx, the basketball team he played for was 0-18. “I vowed at that point in my life I would never be 0 and whatever in anything I did,” he said.Fast forward through decades of playing and coaching a variety of sports, and Savage has always managed to get into the win column. He is aiming for a lot more with the Nighthawks — but it’s not all about victories.“My definition of success is do the best you can. We want to compete every day,” said Savage, whose hope is for that effort to translate into success in the win-loss department on the field.Different Coaching StyleThe early-days Coach Savage was much different than today’s Coach Savage, he will tell you.“I was too intense. I was coached by coaches that were intense back in the day,” explained Savage, who continued his playing career at Iona College before blowing out his knee. “Now I have my own style. I think Newtown’s going to get the best John Savage. It’s more teaching and practice, and letting the players learn.”That said, Newtown’s new field hockey leader still comes with a high level of vigor.“Most definitely intense,” affirms field hockey player Maddy Twitchell, who graduated from NHS this past spring; she and the Nighthawks also got to see Savage coach with Mamaroneck. In fact, his team visited NHS for a nonconference tilt last fall.“He wants everybody moving and if you’re not moving you’re coming out for sure,” Twitchell said. “He’s definitely a great addition to the Newtown team.”“I have a lot of energy and I hope the energy goes to them and they send that energy back to me,” said Savage, whose previous career was in financial services before turning his attention to coaching and teaching.“I just love what sports did for me as far as who I am as a person,” Savage said.Goyda Starts Middle School TeamGoyda, prior to coaching at NHS, led the town’s youth program for nearly a decade. The opportunity to step away from the high school team and back into the youth game seemed logical to her since her daughter, Katie, graduated from Newtown High in 2021 as the program’s scoring/points record holder in multiple categories and plays at Bryant College. Goyda wants the opportunity to watch her play.“I realized I can always step back into this program but I can’t get back seeing her play,” said Goyda, whose older daughter, Megan, also went on to play collegiately and now coaches at Brookfield High.The transition back to youth field hockey coaching gives Goyda more flexibility to travel and see Katie play, she noted.And it helps fill what Goyda views as a void with Newtown High’s rival schools possessing middle school teams. She is starting a Newtown Middle School program to allow seventh and eighth graders more practice and game time together, apart from the existing youth program which, until now, has been for elementary and middle school players.“I strongly believe you’re only going to be as successful as your feeder program is,” said Goyda, adding that this will give seventh and eighth graders a chance to really prepare for the high school game.She will hold the Preseason Field Hockey Clinic for sixth-graders as well as incoming middle school students, August 22-24, at Treadwell Park. The clinic runs from 8:30 to 10:30 am each day. Cost is $75. Register through Newtown Parks and Recreation: https://www.newtown-ct.gov/parks-recreation. “She’s doing amazing things with young kids. She makes it fun but she also is a great teacher of the game,” Savage said.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

Field Hockey Coach John Savage Andy Hutchison Story Ellen Goyda Passes Newtown High Field Hockey Coaching Baton To John Savage Field Hockey Coach John Savage Featured Slider, Sports None

Ellen Goyda Passes Newtown High Field Hockey Coaching Baton To John Savage

Former New York championship coach takes over NHS squad.

Sports

Ultimate Frisbee Success For James Tibolla And University Of Connecticut Team

Ultimate Frisbee Success For James Tibolla And University Of Connecticut Team Former NHS athlete finds ultimate success at UConn.James Tibolla had an ultimate athletic experience at the University of Connecticut this past spring.The 2020 Newtown High School graduate helped UConn’s Ultimate Frisbee team to tremendous success, leading the way on and off the field as a captain.The UConn club team captured championship runs through sectional and regional tournaments that took place at Stony Brook University in Suffolk County, N.Y. UConn’s regional championship game win against Cornell earned the squad a spot in the USA Ultimate Frisbee Tournament, a national competition that took place over Memorial Day weekend in Milwaukee. There were only 20 top teams from across all 50 states, including Division I lineups, that competed in the tournament.“The success we had this past spring was so amazing and I am very proud of the team. Everyone put in the work and I am so glad that I was a part of it,” Tibolla said.Tibolla was on Newtown’s varsity wrestling team as a junior and senior and also played on the Ultimate Frisbee team as a junior. There was no senior team due to the impact of the coronavirus. Despite limited experience with Ultimate Frisbee, Tibolla made impressive strides in his first two years at UConn.Matt Kearney, a Newtown native, coaches the team and notes that Tibolla has been a key team member.“Last year, James’ freshman year, we did not have a season due to COVID, but James was one of the people that tried to stay involved with the club with what little we were doing. Things like small scrimmages or just throwing after class, James was involved. This year was his first official season with us and he started with a very strong showing at tryouts. For our first few fall tournaments, we were moving him around in different roles and eventually settled using him as a defensive specialist due to his athleticism, but we knew he could also be relied on as a handler in a pinch,” said Kearney, explaining that a “handler is kind of like a quarterback, but usually there are two or three on the field at a time, mainly occupying the backfield.”“He showed strong leadership qualities right from the start and was elected as a captain in his first year with the team, after just two tournaments and a handful of practices. This is highly unusual, but this year the senior class collectively decided to decline their captain nominations, as we were looking at this year as a rebuild initially and they wanted to give the younger classes a head start in team leadership roles. James was a near-unanimous selection because of his dedication to the team, his work ethic, his positive attitude, and his ability to connect all the students at UConn who love our sport. In the spring James led the UConn Men’s Ultimate HuskyTHON team, which was a dance-a-thon fundraiser for Connecticut Children’s Hospital,” Kearney said.Tibolla took on more responsibility with the team in tournament time. Tibolla played nearly every point on offense and defense in the national competition and tied for the top goal-scorer on the team.“By the time the postseason rolled around, I had a few more opportunities to work with James and try him in different positions, and it was clear he was ready to step into a bigger role on the field as well. Through our sectionals and regionals runs, he started to cross over from defense to offense more often and was extremely reliable as a thrower, receiver, and defender. We used him in some of the most difficult positions on the field that require the most endurance, especially in defense of other teams’ handlers, and he was up to the task,” Kearney said.Overcoming Obstacles And Tourney SuccessJust like in other athletics activities, there are challenges for Ultimate Frisbee players to overcome.“The mental aspect of the game is the toughest part for me. I can be very hard on myself, and trying to keep my head in the game can be very difficult sometimes,” Tibolla said.Tibolla’s UConn team had plenty of obstacles in the way during this recent postseason run.The Huskies entered the postseason with high hopes but realistic expectations, said Kearney, adding that the team was set to compete in the second weekend of April at Yale for the Hudson Valley Conference championship tournament. “But a miscommunication between university administrations prevented our team from playing that weekend,” Kearney said.“Instead of having our season end on the spot, and in light of the circumstances, we were permitted by USA Ultimate (USAU) to play in our neighboring conference (Metro N.Y.) championship the following weekend. These were hosted by SUNY Stony Brook on Easter weekend, and many of our players were unable to attend due to family obligations. While we were lucky to be able to compete at all, the outlook was bleak,” Kearney explained.UConn went from playing a tournament one hour away with a full roster of 23, to playing at a tournament on Easter against significantly better teams with a roster of just 12, the coach noted.“Luckily, this 12 included our dominant handler trio of Jeremy Bernier, Danny Manger, and Seth Fortin, who used their experience and chemistry to expertly navigate the windy conditions. During pool play on [the first day], UConn collected wins over Rowan, NYU, and SUNY Stony Brook, only dropping a game to Columbia. On Easter Sunday, UConn defeated Princeton in the semifinal and took revenge on Columbia in the finals, winning the 14-13 nail-biter for the conference championship,” Kearney said.A first place finish at conferences was not enough to give the Huskies the top seed at the regional championship two weeks later, and the team finished ranked fourth behind No. 1 Cornell, No. 2 Yale, and No. 3 Columbia. Regionals was hosted at Stony Brook again, but this time with near perfect weather and a full-strength UConn team with momentum, Kearney said.If the team won their first two games in their pool, they would be granted a bye into the bracket; however, following a win over SUNY Buffalo UConn suffered a one-point loss to Princeton. The loss forced UConn to play a crossover game, where the team took down SUNY Albany handily to earn a spot in the next day’s bracket stage.“If there was a single theme for these 2022 UConn Huskies, it would be ‘save your best for Sunday.’ A loss in any of these games meant the end of our season. The quarterfinal matchup was UConn versus RIT, who surprised the field by winning their pool as the No. 10 seed, beating Columbia in the process. The RIT defense proved difficult to navigate, as they frequently used a zone defense which relied on two of their biggest playmakers in the middle of the field to generate turnovers. They went up 4-1 early but UConn was able to collect a couple breaks back,” said Kearney, whose team trailed by just one at the break.The second half was close throughout, but some great adjustments from UConn had them navigating RIT’s zone defense with ease, Kearney said. “Carson Fitzner was the favorite target of Bernier, who was able to break through the zone with several deep hammer passes to Fitzner. The game was tied at 12-12 when the time cap went off, forcing a next point wins situation, called universe point in ultimate terminology,” Kearney said.The final point saw both teams turn the disc over multiple times, and it was anyone’s game until again Bernier managed to find a streaking Fitzner in the end zone for the win.UConn’s next challenge started less than 15 minutes later — a semifinal matchup vs Rutgers, which despite being a No. 8 seed was one of the favorite dark horse predictions to win the tournament, Kearney said. The Rutgers team featured a lot of young talent, including one of the favorites for All-Region freshman of the year — Chris Iglesias. UConn also had no shortage of young talent, with 15 rookies among 23 players.“UConn’s rookies really shined in this game, with huge contributions on both offense and defense from sophomores James Tibolla (1 Assist, 2 Blocks) and Austin Rey (5 Goals). UConn once again dug themselves into an early deficit, but managed to claw back into the game and take half 8-7, and once again the opposition had no answer for Bernier (4 Assists, 1 Goal, 1 Block) and Fitzner (2 Assists, 4 Blocks) who led the team in the second half to a 14-13 victory,” Kearney said.The Metro East Regional Finals saw UConn take on the defending champions and No. 1 seed, Cornell. Again, this game took place less than 15 minutes after the previous one ended, and after back-to-back one-point games without rest, the team was exhausted. “The first half looked similar to the RIT quarterfinal, with UConn going down 4-1 in the first five points. After taking a time-out to calm the nerves and refuel, the Huskies were able to rattle off a couple breaks of their own to make the game close. As this was the last remaining game, the sidelines were packed with spectators and teams that had already been eliminated, who all seemed to be cheering for the underdog Huskies. Like RIT, Cornell tried their best to shut down the potent UConn offense with a zone defense, and just like the RIT game Bernier carved it up with beautiful deep hammer throws to Fitzner,” Kearney said.With UConn leading 13-12 and time cap on, UConn’s Tibolla took possession back on a defensive block, and the Huskies punched it in for the regional championship by a final score of 14-12. The win earned UConn the sole bid from the Metro East to the USAU National Championship in Milwaukee on Memorial Day Weekend. This was the fourth time UConn has qualified for the tournament since USAU began organizing it in 1987, and UConn’s first time since 2018. On the back of Bernier’s extraordinary Regional Championship performance, the team nominated him for the 2022 Callahan Award, the college MVP award similar to the Heisman or Naismith, Kearney said.Seeded No. 20 in the national tourney, UConn’s pool included No. 4 Pittsburgh, No. 5 Georgia, No. 9 Michigan, and No. 16 Auburn. UConn fell to each of the top three seeds in the pool to miss out on the bracket, but had the opportunity to play spoiler in the final game of pool play to try to keep Auburn from making the bracket with a win. The Huskies started strong and held an 8-7 lead after one half, but could not hold on for the victory. In consolation, the Huskies fell to No. 17 William and Mary in a close consolation match, ending the season.“While the season’s final tournament did not go the way the Huskies had hoped, there are still plenty of silver linings. It was unprecedented for a team with 15 rookies to qualify for the national championship, and almost all will be returning to the team next year having gained that invaluable experience. In particular, Tibolla and Rey shared the team lead in goals at nationals with seven apiece, and both will be returning as captains for the 2023 season. Jeremy Bernier was selected for Ultiworld’s All-Region First Team, while Danny Manger earned an honorable mention,” Kearney said.It has been an enjoyable road to Ultimate Frisbee success and camaraderie for Tibolla.“I started playing Ultimate Frisbee my junior year of high school, and I might not have ever played if it wasn’t for a friend who asked me to join the team,” he said. “To me, the best part is the community. It’s such a fun environment and I’ve made many friendships through it.”Tibolla plays year-round. He stays sharp in the off-season with summer league play in Connecticut. The Ultimate Frisbee season gets going again in the fall with the goal of having tournament success each spring.“I look forward to seeing him continue to improve and lead UConn back to Nationals in 2023,” Kearney said.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

Ultimate Frisbee James Tibolla Andy Hutchison Story Ultimate Frisbee Success For James Tibolla And University Of Connecticut Team Ultimate Frisbee James Tibolla Featured Slider, Sports None

Sports

Jake Fattibene Speeds Around Track, Races To National Title

Jake Fattibene Speeds Around Track, Races To National Title No matter how tough the competition, racing is always fun for Fattibene.Newtown 11-year-old Jake Fattibene took car racing to another level this summer, speeding around the Silver City Quarter Midget track in Meriden to a first-place finish in the Quarter Midgets of America Eastern Grand Nationals in July.It was the first national race at Fattibene’s home track since 2008 and Fattibene certainly made it memorable as he drove his Bullrider racing chassis in the Heavy Animal Division.There are a few different options for quarter midgets and Fattibene raced all four cars in the A Main events.It feels great. I have wanted to run a National Race for so long,” Fattibene said.He may be a pre-teen but has nerves of race car body steel.“Fun, it is always fun,” Fattibene said when asked if it was more fun or nerve-racking going against top racers in a national competition.The hardest part about racing for Fattibene: “Figuring out the car and the way it wants to handle and how the track feels that day.”The best part? Naturally: “Going fast,” he said.Fattibene also came in second in the Light World Formula division at another race.Now in his fifth season racing, Fattibene has experienced success from the get-go. In his first year on the track, he won Novice of the Year accolades.This young racer has racked up 57 feature wins at various tracks.It is a family event when Fattibene hits the tracks. Dad Dean Fattibene is crew chief. Mom Melissa is part of crew. Sister Brooke is also a competitive driver in different divisions.Dean Fattibene’s brother’s children, Abraham and Shelby, also race. Melissa Fattibene’s dad, Rick Fattibene, known at the track as Pepop, is one of Jake’s biggest fans and has been on hand for many of his big wins.Outside of racing, Fattibene is part of the town’s sixth grade football team and has wrestled in the Newtown Youth Wrestling Association for the last three years.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

Jake Fattibene Car Racer Andy Hutchison Story Jake Fattibene Speeds Around Track, Races To National Title Jake Fattibene Car Racer Featured Slider, Sports None

Sports

Softball For Girls, Baseball For Boys? Not So Fast Say These Hard-Ball Enthusiasts

Softball For Girls, Baseball For Boys? Not So Fast Say These Hard-Ball Enthusiasts Newtown girls prove baseball is not just for the boys.Traditionally, girls play softball; baseball is for the boys. But don’t tell that to Newtown’s Sophia Thorsson, Abby Ehrens, and Kacey Attonito — these young ladies prefer hardball all the way, putting them in a “League of Their Own” (1992 movie about an all women’s baseball team). Each of these girls has been influenced by their brothers.Thorsson, 11, and Ehrens, 10, are youth baseball teammates; both play for the Newtown Dingers.A second baseman, and outfielder, Thorsson played baseball for the first time in the fall of 2021 and continued this past spring. She has played soccer and tried basketball and field hockey, and is also a red belt in karate.“I have an older brother that plays and I practiced with him. That’s how I found out I wanted to try baseball,” Thorsson said. “Hitting is my favorite part, and I love cooperating with the team.”These girls do not feel out of place despite being outnumbered by the boys on the field. Actually, they embrace it.“I like playing with the boys because most of them are very good at playing baseball and I can learn from them. But I don’t really care if it’s a team of boys or girls, as long as it is baseball,” Thorsson said. “I would love to keep playing baseball, but would consider moving to softball if I can’t continue playing baseball.”Silvana Thorsson, Sophia’s mom, said it was of no surprise to her husband Johann and her that Sophia chose baseball over softball due to her interest in brother Noah’s passion for the game.“She loves to practice with her brother in the yard and spent many seasons watching him play from the sidelines. She tends to gravitate to most things her brother is interested in. They are close in age, so baseball was one of the ways she was able to connect with him. We love watching her play and improve with every season,” Silvana Thorsson said.Ehrens, 10, completed her second year on the baseball diamonds this past spring. Like Thorsson, Ehrens has played second and in the outfield; she has also tried pitching. And, also like her teammate, following her sibling’s interests led Ehrens’ involvement in the game.“I have always watched my brother play and I thought it would be really fun. He loves baseball and I wanted to try too,” Ehrens said. “The best part of baseball is how cooperative playing baseball is because it’s really all teamwork.“It really makes no difference because I get along with boys and girls all the same,” she said. “When I am older, if I could get on the teams, I would love to continue playing baseball.”Her parents, Susie and Tony, support their daughter following in the path of her brother and playing with the boys.“When Abby told us she wanted to play baseball, we weren’t that surprised,” Susie Ehrens said. “Her older brother Joey has played baseball since he was 5, and she quite literally grew up on the sidelines watching him play all through Babe Ruth, AAU Club team and Newtown High School. He is starting college in the fall. I think Abby and any girl can benefit from playing baseball now or in the future as they get older. It’s really a great sport that the whole family can watch and be engaged in. We have loved all our Newtown Babe Ruth rec and travel team experiences over the years.”Attonito, 8, plays for a team sponsored by jjStacks. Attonito, a shortstop/outfielder has played baseball for two years and has also done tee ball and gymnastics for a year each.Having followed in the footsteps (baseball cleat steps) of her brother, Harley, Attonito said hitting the baseball and watching her team play are what she enjoys best about the game.“It’s fun and a little bit challenging. I like that it’s more challenging,” Attonito said of playing with the boys. “I want to play baseball as long as I can.”“I was very excited that she chose baseball. She truly enjoys the game and loves the challenge of being the only girl. I also love the tremendous amount of support she gets. She knows what she is doing is different and embraces it and loves the challenge,” said her dad, Joe Attonito. “The families she plays with and against are all incredibly supportive of her being there, which is great to see.”Softball is a great option for girls, but for those interested in baseball, just look to these Newtown players for inspiration next time they head out to the field.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

Girls Play Baseball With Boys Andy Hutchison Story Softball For Girls, Baseball For Boys? Not So Fast Say These Hard-Ball Enthusiasts Girls Play Baseball With Boys Featured Slider, Sports None

Sports

No Pads, No Footballs, But No Rest For The Weary — Hawk Gridders Gear Up For Fall Season

No Pads, No Footballs, But No Rest For The Weary — Hawk Gridders Gear Up For Fall Season Hawks putting in hard work during the summer offseason.The regular season is still a month away, but Newtown High School football players are already into well over a month of intense summer conditioning/workouts and weight-lifting. Under the direction of the coaching staff, the Nighthawks lift weights in the school for an hour before heading outside to the Blue & Gold Stadium turf four days each week from late June until the official start of preseason practices in mid-August. The fifth day, each Friday, is reserved for fun, yet challenging competitions such as the prowler push, tug of war, races with medicine balls held over heads, and tractor tire flips — up and down the field.The objective is for offseason hard work to pay off once the regular season rolls around.“You want to build strength, you want to build speed. Ultimately, you want to build power. We want powerful athletes,” said Bobby Pattison, head coach of the Nighthawks. “You might play teams that are bigger than you and stronger than you but you have to show up and compete.“Showing up is not enough. You’ve got to actually do the work. The kids have bought in,” Pattison said. “We look forward to seeing that translate on Friday nights.”In addition to building strength, speed, and power, the program is meant to instill a competitive edge in the players with everything they do, Pattison said. His squad is broken into several small groups whose collective efforts are put to the test against counterparts on those Fridays.“You also get to see them push each other and kids start to lead. It’s great for us to see from an evaluation standpoint,” Pattison said.Practice begins August 15, and games begin with a home opener versus Class LL Greenwich, an FCIAC team, on Friday, September 9. Newtown, which has played at the Class LL level in past seasons, is a Class L squad this year. The first South-West Conference clash for the Nighthawks comes a week later with a September 16 visit to Bethel. Newtown will face nonconference foe Daniel Hand in Madison on September 23. The rest of the Friday schedule is as follows: September 30 home versus Pomperaug of Southbury, October 14 home versus New Milford, October 21 at Bunnell of Stratford, October 28 home versus Joel Barlow of Redding, November 4 at Stratford, and November 11 home versus New Fairfield. All games are set for 7 pm with the exception of the annual Thanksgiving Eve tilt with Masuk of Monroe, this year set to be played on the road, Wednesday, November 23, at 6 pm.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Football Summer Workouts Andy Hutchison Story No Pads, No Footballs, But No Rest For The Weary — Hawk Gridders Gear Up For Fall Season NHS Football Summer Workouts Featured Slider, Sports None

Today's Events

August 16, 2022

“The Art of Meagan Ferriter”

NOTE: General hours are weekdays 7 am-5 pm, as well as weekday evenings when town board and commission meetings are conducted

Newtown Municipal Center main hallway and showcase, 3 Primrose Street

Installation of acrylic and watercolor paintings celebrating color and light in nature by Newtown-based artist and art educator on view to September 16, also special presentation (in showcase) of work by students of Ms Ferriter, hosted by Newtown Cultural Arts Commission.

August 16, 2022 at 08:00 am

SCAN Summer Art Show & Sale

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

Original works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, mixed media, etc by members of The Society of Creative Arts of Newtown, on view to August 30; 203-426-4533.

August 16, 2022 at 09:30 am

Beauty Secrets with Laura Bautista

Newtown Senior Center, 8 Simpson Street

Free for members (nonmembers contact senior center for fee details)

Monthly visit from owner of True Colors Salon in Danbury with health and beauty updates and suggestions, Q&A, registration requested; 203-270-4310.

August 16, 2022 at 11:15 am

Newtown Farmers Market

Fairfield Hills, Primrose Street

Local vendors offering fruits, vegetables, baked goods, charcuterie boards, soaps and homecare items, and more, weekly to October 25; facebook.com/farmersmarketatfairfieldhills.

August 16, 2022 at 02:00 pm

“Into The Woods” Theater & Improv with Ingrid Schaeffer

C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street

Tweens and teens can join Schaeffer for theater and improv, reenacting scenes from Stephen Sondheim’s musical, registration required; 203-426-4533, chboothlibrary.org.

August 16, 2022 at 03:00 pm

Newtown Community Center Committee meeting (agenda posted)**LOCATION UPDATED**

~~Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson Street~~

NOTE: This meeting has been moved, to shared meeting room 3 at Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street.

agenda posted

August 16, 2022 at 06:30 pm

Economic Development Commission meeting (agenda posted)

Newtown Municipal Center (shared meeting room 3), 3 Primrose Street

agenda posted

August 16, 2022 at 07:00 pm

Special Editions

Kenneth G. Carlson

Geraldine Coakley

Could not have worked for or known a kinder more giving man! He cared so much for the community. Will never this very special person.

Family, Friends Mourning Death Of ‘Newtown Bee’ Publisher R. Scudder Smith

Across all the documentation the editor was provided regarding both of these programs - along with additional research if a correction or clarification needed to be made - we found no claims of bipartisan consensus on the original 2000 vote creating the annual August sales tax free period. As your hometown paper, we simply localized the fact that Newtown's resident lawmaker was promoting sales tax week and reached out to The Newtown Bee to share details with town residents. This was not a means of promoting the party of the lawmaker who did, as we did not mention it. Nor did we receive similar outreach from other members of the Newtown delegation - including the Democrat - or we would have mentioned it. If you are referencing the pandemic employee bonus program, we did credit the entire legislature for endorsing it.

Essential Worker Bonuses, Sales Tax Breaks In Store

The editor failed to mention that this was a bipartisan effort in Hartford. Credit goes to the entire group of elected officials, Democrat's, Republicans and even members of minor parties. Let give credit to where it belongs.

I live on South Main. I cordially invite any town officials to join me for coffee, on my lawn, to assess the noise situation. You may contact me through The Bee. I give them permission to give out my email address.

Police Commission Talks Jake Brakes, Rumble Strips

Lots of 'assume' and we know what that means.

Get Out And Vote

Family, Friends Mourning Death Of 'Newtown Bee' Publisher R. Scudder Smith

Wetlands Panel Reviews Mt Pleasant Road Apartments Proposal

Operational Strategies Related To Pandemic Released For 2022-23 School Year

Roussas Returns To Board Of Finance

Family, Friends Mourning Death Of 'Newtown Bee' Publisher R. Scudder Smith

Wetlands Panel Reviews Mt Pleasant Road Apartments Proposal

Operational Strategies Related To Pandemic Released For 2022-23 School Year

Roussas Returns To Board Of Finance

Fire Reports | August 3-9, 2022

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

The Way We Were

Troop 70 Leader Chronicles Scouts’ 200-Mile Towpath Ride

Concert Preview: Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Exhilarating Harmonies Remain Rooted In Its DNA

Top Five NewtownBee.Com Stories For July 31-August 6

Ellen Goyda Passes Newtown High Field Hockey Coaching Baton To John Savage

Ultimate Frisbee Success For James Tibolla And University Of Connecticut Team

Jake Fattibene Speeds Around Track, Races To National Title

Softball For Girls, Baseball For Boys? Not So Fast Say These Hard-Ball Enthusiasts

No Pads, No Footballs, But No Rest For The Weary — Hawk Gridders Gear Up For Fall Season

For Better Health - Spring 2022

Spring Home & Garden 2022

Guide To Newtown 2022

Holiday Gift Guide 2021

For Better Health - Fall 2021

Home & Garden Fall 2021

Back To School 2021

The Newtown Bee's Back to School 2020

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

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Family, Friends Mourning Death Of 'Newtown Bee' Publisher R. Scudder Smith

Wetlands Panel Reviews Mt Pleasant Road Apartments Proposal

Operational Strategies Related To Pandemic Released For 2022-23 School Year

Roussas Returns To Board Of Finance

Family, Friends Mourning Death Of 'Newtown Bee' Publisher R. Scudder Smith

Wetlands Panel Reviews Mt Pleasant Road Apartments Proposal

Operational Strategies Related To Pandemic Released For 2022-23 School Year

Roussas Returns To Board Of Finance

Fire Reports | August 3-9, 2022

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

The Way We Were

Troop 70 Leader Chronicles Scouts’ 200-Mile Towpath Ride

Concert Preview: Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Exhilarating Harmonies Remain Rooted In Its DNA

Top Five NewtownBee.Com Stories For July 31-August 6

Ellen Goyda Passes Newtown High Field Hockey Coaching Baton To John Savage

Ultimate Frisbee Success For James Tibolla And University Of Connecticut Team

Jake Fattibene Speeds Around Track, Races To National Title

Softball For Girls, Baseball For Boys? Not So Fast Say These Hard-Ball Enthusiasts

No Pads, No Footballs, But No Rest For The Weary — Hawk Gridders Gear Up For Fall Season

For Better Health - Spring 2022

Spring Home & Garden 2022

Guide To Newtown 2022

Holiday Gift Guide 2021

For Better Health - Fall 2021

Home & Garden Fall 2021

Back To School 2021

The Newtown Bee's Back to School 2020

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