Theater Preview: Newtown — And The Local Theater Community — Welcomes The TieslersRecent Newtown arrivals Sophie and Paul Tiesler are exploring their new hometown while also preparing for a first. The actors are about to co-star in a theatrical production together. STAMFORD — Bravo! Sophie and Paul Tiesler have moved to Newtown.Leaving New York City, where they resided since college, and after a brief residence in Norwalk, the couple have arrived in Newtown. The irresistible charm of this small town and the chance to purchase a home on a lake made Paul’s New York City commute totally tolerable.This lovely couple presently star as adulterous lovers in Same Time, Next Year at Stamford’s Curtain Call Theatre. The production, originally scheduled for the weekend of February 25-27, has been extended a second weekend, to include performances March 5-7.The production is an interesting turn for a married pair, according to Sophie.Paul and Sophie majored in theater at Hofstra University. It was after graduation that they fell for each other. Their shared passion for acting has only fortified their connection.This is the first time they are performing together and are thoroughly enjoying this adventure. They are finding that playing a couple engaged in an illicit affair that takes place over a span of 25 years is exciting and fun.Each has performed previously at Curtain Call, but never together. Finding new ways to communicate and manage their individual acting styles has been a great exercise, they said, and they hope to have further opportunities to take the stage together.Moving to Newtown has turned out to be everything they had hoped for.Exploring the local restaurant scene has not disappointed these former city dwellers. They love the wings and beer at Michael’s Tap Room in neighboring Bethel. Lucas Local and Thai Delight are regular go-tos. The recently opened Marygold’s has already become a favorite. The ambience, service, food, and cocktails have kept them coming back.The pizza options in Newtown are too many to mention, and the Tieslers are taking their time deciding which is best.The local park scene suits this pair’s love of hiking. They enjoyed the trails at Rocky Glen Falls. Without much time for hikes before the snow fell, they are looking forward to the many miles of trails Newtown has to offer.On snowy days, the Tieslers love to snuggle on the couch with their Cavapoo pup, Teddy, and watch the snow fall on the lake in their front yard.With the plethora of community theaters in this area, these two thespians hope to spend considerable time both on stage and in the audience. As theaters begin to open up, they will certainly continue to perform — it’s what they love to do.Performances of Same Time, Next Year are scheduled for Thursday, February 25; Fridays and Saturdays, February 26-27 and March 5-6, at 8 pm; and Sundays, February 28 and March 7, at 2 pm.The play will be presented without intermission to avoid restroom lines. Patrons will be seated six feet apart side-to-side, utilizing every other row of the theatre. Total occupancy will be about 50 patrons.Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 for senior citizens, and $20 for children. Thrifty Thursday tickets are $27.50.Contact the box office at 203-461-6358 or visit curtaincallinc.com for reservations or additional information.Same Time, Next Year is being presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals in cooperation with the city of Stamford. Additional support is provided through the Connecticut Office of the Arts.Curtain Call is the nonprofit, community-based theater company in residence at the Sterling Farms Theatre Complex, 1349 Newfield Avenue.new Newtown residents Paul & Sophie Tiesler co-starring in Curtain Call sho Elizabeth Young
Story Newtown — And The Local Theater Community — Welcomes The Tieslersnew Newtown residents Paul & Sophie Tiesler co-starring in Curtain Call shoFeatured Slider, FeaturesNone
Despite COVID Challenges, Newtown Maintains ‘Perfect’ Bond Rating Newtown's latest AAA bond rating affirmation and “stable outlook” designation was just issued by Standard & Poor’s - read why this is helping save millions in extra taxes.Since 2014, despite myriad budgetary challenges, pricey capital projects, right-sizing municipal pension assumptions, multiple costly and devastating weather events, and a global pandemic, Newtown’s elected leaders, key department heads, and Finance Director Robert Tait have managed to maintain Newtown’s perfect AAA bond rating.The latest affirmation and “stable outlook” designation came from the rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P), February 18, ahead of the town’s latest round of bonding for local capital projects.Town bond counsel Barry J. Bernabe of Phoenix Advisors, LLC, said that S&P outlined a number of points contributing to its AAA affirmation, including:*A very strong economy, with access to a broad and diverse metropolitan statistical area;*Very strong management, with strong financial policies and practices under the S&P Financial Management Assessment methodology;*Strong budgetary performance, with operating results that S&P expects could improve in the near term relative to fiscal 2020;*Strong budgetary flexibility, with an available fund balance in fiscal 2020 of 12.9 percent of operating expenditures;*Very strong liquidity, with total government available cash at 17.7 percent of total governmental fund expenditures;*A very strong debt and contingent liability position, with debt service carrying charges at 6.9 percent of expenditures as well as low overall net debt; and*A strong institutional framework score.In recent years, a few days ahead of Newtown’s call with the agency, S&P submits a list of questions they plan to address, which is very helpful to local officials.“It’s good to get the agency’s questions ahead of time. I like it because it gives me a chance to explain the answers to questions they’re asking. It helps me be better prepared for the call,” Tait told The Newtown Bee. “They seem to like it as well, and it has cut down on the amount of time we’re spending on the call, although I’m always happy to take up the entire [scheduled] hour.”Tait said one of the most significant attributes as noted perennially in the bond agency reports, is Newtown’s consistent practice of maintaining a preferred amount of fund balance and liquid cash on hand. The agency also appreciates how Newtown has codified its best financial management practices into formal written policies and guidelines.“We’ve been maintaining our financial position and possibly improving it over time,” he said. “We’ve had these policies and we review them as needed, but our fund balance has also been increasing.”In fact, Newtown’s fund balance has recently exceeded its 12 percent guideline.“So we’re finding appropriate uses to spend down that excess fund balance,” typically on capital items that would otherwise be bonded with the related and added debt service, or in fortifying the capital nonrecurring fund to support pay-as-you-go options on other smaller capital purchases, the finance director explained.Another practice viewed as a positive by bond rating agencies was Newtown’s move to a defined benefit contribution plan for town employees’ retirement. Tait said while the number of former staff on the original town pension plan continues to shrink, all new employees are offered participation in the defined contribution plan.“So we haven’t been getting the kind of pension pressures on the budget you may be seeing in other towns or at the state level,” he said.Tait said budgeting conservatively has permitted maximizing contributions to the fund balance, and any subsequent rollover to the capital nonrecurring account is saving taxpayers millions in bond interest. Even more savings are generated from occasional bond refunding opportunities, when the timing to do so is appropriate.Christal Preszler, the deputy director of Newtown’s department of Economic and Community Development, was also on the S&P call and contributed to the pre-call presentation.“It’s always nice to talk about all the great developments happening in Newtown, and to see how we’re moving the community forward being affirmed by an outside agency,” Preszler said. “But it’s really the taxpayers who are seeing the benefit in the form of all the savings on interest we’ve been getting over the years.”She said this year, one of the S&P questions targeted how the town was coping with pandemic-related costs. She also reviewed the local economic landscape, progress on commercial development projects, and how Newtown’s workforce is faring.“If there is anything we could say about COVID, it’s had a positive effect as far as people migrating into town and the state from New York,” Preszler said. “They were also interested to see how the town has been expanding its residential [stock], including new apartment and single family home [starts].”First Selectman Dan Rosenthal said based on the tenor of the phone review with S&P, he was not surprised by the affirmation of the AAA rating, “but it was still pleasing to hear.”Rosenthal said he credits Tait and Preszler for the advance work they each did for the S&P review.“Bob always provides in-depth answers so nothing is left up to chance,” the first selectman said “None of this happens by accident — the town’s fiscal culture has developed from years of hard work by staff and elected officials and support from our residents. It is nice to see the collective effort recognized year over year.”Despite COVID Challenges, Newtown Maintains 'Perfect' Bond Rating John Voket
Story Despite COVID Challenges, Newtown Maintains ‘Perfect’ Bond RatingDespite COVID Challenges, Newtown Maintains 'Perfect' Bond RatingFeatured Slider, NewsNone
Newtown's latest AAA bond rating affirmation and “stable outlook” designation was just issued by Standard & Poor’s - read why this is helping save millions in extra taxes.
C.H. Booth Library Warns Of Fundraising Scam
The C.H. Booth Library has reported a fundraising scam.The C.H. Booth Library notified The Newtown Bee on Saturday, February 27, reporting the following: “A scam fundraising e-mail using our name has gone out. While we do fundraising campaigns, most recently on Thursday as part of Fairfield County Giving Day (thank you!), this is not one of those.We are researching the issue and pursuing all possible courses of action available to us at this time. Unfortunately, it is impossible to prevent spoofers and spammers from impersonation.We apologize for the inconvenience and are thankful to all who alerted us to the issue.”LIbrary Scam Story C.H. Booth Library Warns Of Fundraising ScamLIbrary ScamFeatured Slider, NewsNone
Special Election Set For 112th DistrictHARTFORD — Governor Ned Lamont has announced that he has scheduled Tuesday, April 13, as the date to hold a special election to fill a vacancy for state representative in the 112th Assembly District of the Connecticut House of Representatives.The seat, which consists of the entirety of Monroe and portions of Newtown, became vacant on February 17 following the resignation of JP Sredzinski.Sredzinski, a Republican, served the 112th District for three terms. The district encompasses a portion of Newtown that has 2,336 registered voters according to Newtown Registrars of Voters LeReine Frampton.Nick Kapoor, a current Monroe Board of Education member and Fairfield University professor, is the Democratic candidate according to Newtown DTC Chairman Eric Paradis. The Monroe Republican Town Committee has not yet responded to a request for candidate information.Under state law, the governor is required to issue a writ of special election within 10 days of a vacancy in the General Assembly and a special election must be held exactly 46 days after the writ has been issued. Lamont issued the writs for both Newtown and Monroe February 26.Eligible voters in the district will be able to vote in person on April 13 at Reed Intermediate School between 6 am and 8 pm.Because the governor's Executive Order on no-excuse absentee voting will still be in place, however, absentee ballots are expected to be available by mid-March, according to Town Clerk Debbie Halstead.Look for updates on voting and converge of the candidates and races in upcoming print editions of The Newtown Bee and this website.Special Election Set For 112th District Story Special Election Set For 112th DistrictSpecial Election Set For 112th DistrictFeatured Slider, NewsNone
NAA Leader Offers Support On Open Carry Legislation An interesting collaboration was suggested after a proposed ordinance that could, if passed, bar the open carry of firearms on town-owned property was moved to committee by the Legislative Council.An interesting collaboration was suggested after a proposed ordinance that could, if passed, bar the open carry of firearms on town-owned property was moved to committee by the Legislative Council, February 17.(See related story)Newtown Action Alliance co-founder Po Murray, a vocal gun safety advocate since 12/14, offered council members her assistance in any efforts to get statewide legislation introduced that would extend a similar ban to all 169 Connecticut municipalities.After speaking in favor of the local ordinance earlier in the meeting, she first thanked council members for recommending the ordinance proposal go to committee.“I served on the council years ago,” Murray reminded the officials, and then expressed empathy for Ordinance Committee Chairman Ryan Knapp, who has long advocated for open carry regulations to be legislated statewide, and council member Cathy Reiss, who spoke in favor of yielding any local control of such activities to the state.“So maybe we can work together,” Murray offered, saying she would sign on requesting Newtown State Rep Mitch Bolinsky to pursue it.“I’d be willing to do that with you guys,” she said. “California, Florida, Illinois, New York, South Carolina, and Washington, DC, have already prohibited the open carry of handguns — and California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and DC generally prohibit open carry of long guns.”Murray also took the opportunity to address a comment that Knapp made alluding to fundraising that has been done using Newtown’s 12/14 tragedy as a motivator.“I want you to all be aware that for over eight years, the Newtown Action Alliance has operated as an all-volunteer organization, so we don’t do a lot of fundraising,” Murray said.She said the group’s members have sought “to use their organic and authentic voices out of Newtown to create the change that we believe is necessary to keep other communities safe, and to keep other families from going through what the families here in Newtown have gone through.”However, last year the group decided to hire a part-time staff person to help with the workload Murray herself said was occupying “60 to 80 hours a week.”“It’s truly because we’re fighting for public safety,” she said, “and to protect our children and families.”Following the meeting, Knapp told The Newtown Bee that he “appreciated Murray’s offer, but I am too involved with other council, home, and work commitments to do much more than submit written testimony on the desire for legislative clarity — both from a municipal perspective [because] I don’t want Newtown residents to shoulder the financial and emotional burden of resolving this in court — and that of a gun owner who wants to be compliant in 169 different towns.“As a lawful gun owner I will comply with whatever the state decides,” Knapp added, “and hope they legislate for municipal clarity so that we don’t need a lawsuit to set case law.”SIDEBAR - NAA Leader Offers Support On Open Carry Legislation John Voket
Story NAA Leader Offers Support On Open Carry LegislationSIDEBAR - NAA Leader Offers Support On Open Carry LegislationFeatured Slider, NewsNone
Council Sends Open Carry Ban Proposal To Ordinance Committee The Legislative Council has voted to send a proposal to ban the open carry of firearms on town property to its Ordinance Committee - read all about the discussion.After receiving a legal opinion from Town Attorney David Grogins, entertaining input from numerous residents, and nearly two hours of deliberation February 17, the Legislative Council voted 7-5 to send a proposal to ban the open carry of firearms on town property to its Ordinance Committee.Councilman Ryan Knapp, who chairs the ordinance panel, was among the strongest opponents of the motion. Knapp, along with council member Cathy Reiss repeatedly voiced concerns about such an initiative at the local level, suggesting open carry firearms restrictions should be regulated through statewide legislation.Council members Andy Clure, Dan Wiedemann, and Phil Carroll joined Knapp and Reiss opposed to moving the proposal to committee, but they were outvoted.During public participation, former Newtown school board member and attorney Andrew Buzzi pointed out that similar local initiatives in other states had failed because those states preempted towns from regulating firearms. Referring to the legal opinion, Buzzi said Grogins could not predict if the courts would uphold such an ordinance passed in Newtown.Buzzi did note that the opinion showed this type of ordinance is uniformly struck down, and he included all precedents.“He gave you the facts — now exercise your judgement with the facts in mind,” Buzzi said, adding the council is bound to act in consistency with state law. “And there is no support for the ordinance in law — regulation must be done at the state level.”Sandy Hook Elementary School social worker and resident Miranda Pacchiana told the council that towns have a right to ban open carry based on residents’ collective needs and desires. She said many if not all town residents have been traumatized in some way as a result of the 12/14 tragedy, and even her own family members expressed a desire to live in a place where they would not have to fear being shot.“Gun violence changed our lives,” she said. “Seeing a gun on a stranger evokes more trauma or heightened feelings. It’s more intimidating for Newtowners.”‘Personally Intimidated’Helen Earnshaw said she was personally intimidated during a local rally she attended when “gun carriers walked into our group,” and she personally saw their firearms “in open coats.”Alex Villamil said it is the council’s job to review ordinance proposals.“We owe it to [12/14] survivors to make our town a safe space,” he said. “Keep weapons concealed.”Adam Pacchiana said he also witnessed an intimidating gathering of participants in a Labor Day Parade who were open carrying sidearms. He supported considering the ordinance because, “We want to protect our neighbors and children in town.”David Nault spoke on behalf of all gun owners saying he does not believe in open carry, but he never saw the type of intimidation that was cited by other residents in this and earlier forums discussing the reasons for considering the ordinance.“If they are being intimidated, it’s something for the Newtown Police Department to take care of instead of an ordinance that puts more rules on gun owners who are probably not doing anything wrong to begin with,” he said.Don Lococo said an open carry situation has the potential of contributing to a violent confrontation, and that upgrading ordinances “can be used legally in defense of our small town.”Eric Paradis said armed with the legal opinion, it was “time for ordinance committee to do their work.”Once all town residents spoke, Council Chairman Paul Lundquist allowed Middlebury resident, physician, and NRA pistol instructor Walter Kupson a few moments. Kupson reminded the council, “It’s not the gun you see you need to worry about — it’s not a threat to you. It may be [that] an asset protecting my life is protecting your life.”Holly Sullivan, president of the Connecticut Citizens Defense League (CCDL) said as a Southbury resident, she spends a lot of time shopping and banking in Newtown.“We are part of this community — we’re neighbors,” Sullivan said. “I’ve attended NSSF rallies and I am appalled at the comments.” She said such an ordinance would have an adverse impact on gun owners, and if it is eventually recommended and passed, she had “no doubt the ordinance will be challenged in court.”Legal Challenge LikelyThat was also a concern expressed by all of the dissenting council members. And even Grogins admitted that because of Newtown’s tragedy, he thought a motivated individual or group would not only try to legally challenge the ordinance, but may be inclined to take it all the way to the US Supreme Court, if necessary.“Or the argument could be made that it would inhibit the opposition,” he added.Grogins said his “short opinion,” which was heavily influenced by the 2014 opinion of colleague David Dobin, illustrated that Connecticut municipalities have only the authority the state has given them by law.“In this case, there is no specific authority granted to towns to regulate firearms,” Grogins said, adding that “there are no laws that preempt regulation by local authority,” either.About an hour into the discussion, Reiss made the first motion to dismiss taking up the ordinance, citing concerns that it would expose the town to legal exposure.Grogins said a legal challenge would likely come from someone defying any codified ordinance, if passed, who would be issued a summons for a violation and then challenge the ordinances legality in Superior Court, or it could come in the form of a larger constitutional challenge.Either way, the town would be party to the action, Grogins said, and would be compelled to defend its actions to whatever court those challenges proceeded to.“You could spend $100,000 on a case like this,” the town attorney said. “It could be appealed to appellate and the state supreme court — and also could go to federal court if someone decides there is a federal violation. I’m not sure how you would try this case, but it would not be inexpensive, because it will likely be challenged by a group that wants to make a point.”After further discussion, Reiss modified her motion to not send the ordinance to committee, and it failed 7-5 with the same council representatives — Knapp, Clure, Carroll, Wiedemann, and Reiss — in favor.In turning to a motion to refer the ordinance to committee, council member Chris Smith said he was looking forward to looking at it and any compelling research the committee develops.However, Knapp questioned what more research it could do since a legal opinion and all the options and possible outcomes were already on the table.“I don’t see a need [for it] relative to the risks and cost/benefit,” Knapp said. “This should be handled at the state level.”Legislating Peoples’ Feelings?Wiedemann said he did not see any concerns rising to the level of a public safety issue, and therefore the proposal was not an appropriate issue for the committee to take on.“We’re being asked to legislate peoples’ feelings,” he said.Councilman Dan Honan disagreed, saying, “There is no reason for someone to see someone carrying and be retraumatized.”His colleague Chris Eide concurred.“Mental health is a thing,” he said. “It’s possible someone could see an open carry firearm and be affected.”Carroll described enacting such an ordinance as “trampling some peoples rights for other peoples feelings.”Lundquist said, “We’re still looking at addressing a local problem with a local ordinance,” adding that if it was eventually recommended, he would “still vote no if it doesn’t solve a problem. If it is addressing feelings, doesn’t pass the bar.”“The legal opinion is we can do this and there might be a challenge. But that is true of every ordinance,” Lundquist added. “A firm has offered pro bono to help the town [which] helps mitigate financial risk.”Council member Jordana Bloom, who was a vocal supporter of the ordinance throughout the consideration process, said, “You need to let us do our job and do the research. We have a public mandate. We have people who are afraid. Saying there’s no public safety issue is disingenuous.”Council Vice Chair Judit DeStefano, who made the final motion to send the ordinance proposal to committee, recognized that “concerns on both sides are genuine. What’s more important — gun owner rights or feelings of intimidation and trauma? I don’t want a fear of litigation to drive this — if it’s the right thing to do, it’s the right thing to do.”With that, a roll call vote quickly affirmed the proposal would be sent to committee with DeStefano, Eide, Bloom, Honan, Smith, Lundquist, and council member Alison Plante all supporting it.Council Sends Open Carry Ban Proposal To Ordinance Panel John Voket
Story Council Sends Open Carry Ban Proposal To Ordinance CommitteeFinance Board Concerns Prompt BOE To Pause Paying Off Camera LeaseFeatured Slider, NewsNone
Theater Preview: Newtown — And The Local Theater Community — Welcomes The TieslersRecent Newtown arrivals Sophie and Paul Tiesler are exploring their new hometown while also preparing for a first. The actors are about to co-star in a theatrical production together. STAMFORD — Bravo! Sophie and Paul Tiesler have moved to Newtown.Leaving New York City, where they resided since college, and after a brief residence in Norwalk, the couple have arrived in Newtown. The irresistible charm of this small town and the chance to purchase a home on a lake made Paul’s New York City commute totally tolerable.This lovely couple presently star as adulterous lovers in Same Time, Next Year at Stamford’s Curtain Call Theatre. The production, originally scheduled for the weekend of February 25-27, has been extended a second weekend, to include performances March 5-7.The production is an interesting turn for a married pair, according to Sophie.Paul and Sophie majored in theater at Hofstra University. It was after graduation that they fell for each other. Their shared passion for acting has only fortified their connection.This is the first time they are performing together and are thoroughly enjoying this adventure. They are finding that playing a couple engaged in an illicit affair that takes place over a span of 25 years is exciting and fun.Each has performed previously at Curtain Call, but never together. Finding new ways to communicate and manage their individual acting styles has been a great exercise, they said, and they hope to have further opportunities to take the stage together.Moving to Newtown has turned out to be everything they had hoped for.Exploring the local restaurant scene has not disappointed these former city dwellers. They love the wings and beer at Michael’s Tap Room in neighboring Bethel. Lucas Local and Thai Delight are regular go-tos. The recently opened Marygold’s has already become a favorite. The ambience, service, food, and cocktails have kept them coming back.The pizza options in Newtown are too many to mention, and the Tieslers are taking their time deciding which is best.The local park scene suits this pair’s love of hiking. They enjoyed the trails at Rocky Glen Falls. Without much time for hikes before the snow fell, they are looking forward to the many miles of trails Newtown has to offer.On snowy days, the Tieslers love to snuggle on the couch with their Cavapoo pup, Teddy, and watch the snow fall on the lake in their front yard.With the plethora of community theaters in this area, these two thespians hope to spend considerable time both on stage and in the audience. As theaters begin to open up, they will certainly continue to perform — it’s what they love to do.Performances of Same Time, Next Year are scheduled for Thursday, February 25; Fridays and Saturdays, February 26-27 and March 5-6, at 8 pm; and Sundays, February 28 and March 7, at 2 pm.The play will be presented without intermission to avoid restroom lines. Patrons will be seated six feet apart side-to-side, utilizing every other row of the theatre. Total occupancy will be about 50 patrons.Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 for senior citizens, and $20 for children. Thrifty Thursday tickets are $27.50.Contact the box office at 203-461-6358 or visit curtaincallinc.com for reservations or additional information.Same Time, Next Year is being presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals in cooperation with the city of Stamford. Additional support is provided through the Connecticut Office of the Arts.Curtain Call is the nonprofit, community-based theater company in residence at the Sterling Farms Theatre Complex, 1349 Newfield Avenue.new Newtown residents Paul & Sophie Tiesler co-starring in Curtain Call sho Elizabeth Young
Story Newtown — And The Local Theater Community — Welcomes The Tieslersnew Newtown residents Paul & Sophie Tiesler co-starring in Curtain Call shoFeatured Slider, FeaturesNone
Recent Newtown arrivals Sophie and Paul Tiesler are exploring their new hometown while also preparing for a first. The actors are about to co-star in a theatrical production together.
Apply Now For AARP Community Challenge Grants AARP Connecticut invites community organizations and local government agencies to apply for the 2021 Community Challenge grant program through April 14.HARTFORD — AARP Connecticut invites community organizations and local government agencies to apply for the 2021 Community Challenge grant program through April 14.Grants fund quick-action projects that can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand or tens of thousands for larger projects. Now in its fifth year, the grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods, and rural areas to become great places to live for people of all ages.“We encourage all eligible organizations to apply,” said Tia Murphy, AARP Connecticut state president. “We’ve seen great results from the Community Challenge grant program in communities across Connecticut, and this year we are increasing our support for projects that focus on diversity and inclusion and aid in local recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.”Since 2017, AARP has awarded 560 grants through the Community Challenge, including nine in Connecticut, to nonprofit organizations and government entities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.In 2018, AARP Connecticut launched the Livable Communities Grant Program, dedicated to fund the projects of Connecticut nonprofit organizations and municipalities that aim to help neighborhoods, towns ,and cities become great places for people of all ages. The local expansion of the AARP Community Challenge initiative has provided funding for 16 projects in the first three years.The national grant program provides direct support to all community types, with nearly 40 percent of past projects benefitting rural communities, 20 percent going to suburban locations, and 40 percent improving urban places.Granted projects have demonstrated an ability to help garner additional funds or support from public and private funders, encourage replication and overcome local policy barriers, and receive greater overall awareness and engagement.AARP will prioritize projects that deliver inclusive solutions that meet the needs of diverse populations, as well as those that directly engage volunteers through permanent or temporary solutions that aim to achieve one or more of the following outcomes:*Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks, and access to other amenities;*Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options, and roadway improvements;*Increase the availability of accessible and affordable housing options;*Increase civic engagement and demonstrate the tangible value of “Smart Cities” with innovative and tangible projects that bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of inclusion;*Support local recovery from the coronavirus pandemic with an emphasis on economic development, improvements to public spaces, and transportation services;*Ensure a focus on diversity and inclusion while improving the built and social environment of a community; and*Other community improvements. In addition, AARP wants to hear about local needs and new, innovative ideas for addressing them.The Community Challenge is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits and government entities. Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The application deadline is 8 pm on April 14, and all projects must be completed by November 10, 2021.To submit an application and view past grantees, visit aarp.org/communitychallenge.Apply Now For AARP Community Challenge Grants Story Apply Now For AARP Community Challenge GrantsApply Now For AARP Community Challenge GrantsFeatured Slider, Features, HealthNone
NUSAR Divers Certified For Ice WorkFor many members of Newtown Underwater Search And Rescue, last weekend's weather was perfect for being outdoors. It was not the best weekend for hiking, swimming, baseball, and many outdoor activities.For many members of Newtown Underwater Search And Rescue (NUSAR), however, it was perfect weather. With water in Lake Lillinonah at less than 40 degrees on Sunday, it was “brisk,” according to NUSAR Chief Michael McCarthy, for those who went into the water. NUSAR conducted a two-day training session at the Hanover Road boat launch, completing everything by midday February 21.“The water temperature isn’t bad,” McCarthy said late Sunday morning. “It’s those of us standing on the shore, in the breeze and wind, who are freezing.”NUSAR certified five members of its team for ice diving last weekend, bringing the total to nine certified divers on the locally based dive rescue team.Zach Marchetti, Adam Mack, and Hunter Peterson completed Scuba Diving International (SDI) training through Connecticut Scuba Academy. Sarah Corraco and Chris Corraco completed Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) training through Hamden Scuba training the same morning.The two-day class requires a minimum of three dives, McCarthy said. Divers are allowed no more than two dives per day, he added.While different agencies led the certification, McCarthy confirmed that all dive agencies teach to a common standard.There is a classroom session about two hours long “to go over ice dive gear and site setup,” McCarthy explained this week. “After that, three dives are done over two days. The last dive is a lost diver rescue scenario.”Sunday’s conditions were great for what the team needed.“We had about 7 inches of ice — 3 inches of clear ice and 4 of snow ice — and water temp about 36 degrees,” McCarthy said. Visibility was “very good,” he added, pointing out that divers last weekend could see between six and eight feet out.Lake Lillinonah normally offers about one to two feet of visibility, he noted.All divers were in full drysuits with fleece undergarments. They were additionally outfitted with full face masks with voice communications.The average dive time was 15 to 20 minutes.The team had some onlookers during Sunday’s training. Some were family members of NUSAR team members, others were curious members of the public, and others were representatives of town boards and commissions, including First Selectman Dan Rosenthal.Board of Finance member John Madzula was among those on the shore Sunday. Bundled up against the wind and seasonal temperatures, Madzula was in awe of those volunteering to go into the water that morning.“It’s amazing, watching them,” he said. “It’s not something everyone realizes we have, but it’s good to know these folks are here if we need them.”Founded in 1989, NUSAR is an all volunteer emergency response team dedicated to saving lives through search and rescue operations. Members are professionally trained for water rescue and recovery incidents.NUSAR also promotes water safety awareness education. Through its life jacket loaner program, NUSAR lends life jackets free of charge for children for a day or weekend. Call 203-270-4390 or visit nusar.org/life-jacket-program for additional information or to schedule a loan.Applications for new members are being accepted. NUSAR strongly encourages new members be certified open water divers or higher, although nondivers are also welcome on the team.Individuals must be “relatively fit; capable of lifting 100 pounds and passing an annual dive physical,” according to its website.General meetings are the second Monday of each month. Training is the third Sunday of each month, with alternate drills on Thursday evenings during the summer.NUSAR is online at nusar.org and can be contacted at 203-270-4390 or info@nusar.org. The team is also on Facebook (NewtownDiveRescue) and Instagram (@newtown_dive_rescue).NUSAR training at Hanover boat launch Shannon Hicks
Story Nine NUSAR Divers Certified For Ice WorkNUSAR training at Hanover boat launchFeatured Slider, FeaturesNone
Theater Review: ‘Snapshots’ A Win-Win For ACT-CT And Its AudiencesACT of CT has produced a win-win performance of Stephen Schwartz’s "Snapshots: A Musical Scrapbook."RIDGEFIELD — ACT of CT has produced a win-win performance of Stephen Schwartz’s Snapshots: A Musical Scrapbook, with book by David Stern. This is an authentic theater experience for audiences, streamed right into their homes, as well as another gold star to ACT for a creative success.Snapshots is the story of Dan and Susan, a couple who have been together so long, their spark has dimmed due to lack of oxygen. Susan (played by Mariand Torres) is in her attic, a place filled with memories. She is nostalgic yet determined to leave her stale and disconnected marriage.Dan (Ryan K. Bailer) finds her there and is completely blindsided by Sue’s decision. For her, this is simply further evidence of how far apart they have grown. Her bag is packed.Yet in this musty old room, their past comes alive. As they rediscover themselves over and over, unearthing their shared history, their younger selves appear, played by John Cardoza, Olivia Hernandez, Monica Ramirez, and Michael McCorry Rose.From the moment Sue first laid eyes on Dan, sometime around middle school, she knew this goofy young kid was her guy. They took the scenic route to finding they were meant for each other. Once settled in for the long run, they lost touch and drifted apart.Determined to hang onto her, Dan repeatedly tries and fails to persuade Sue to stay, attempting to convince her that what she really wants is right in front of her and that he can be the man, and friend, she needs. Their young counterparts root for them as they sing their hearts out.Drawing from a rich score compiled from Stephen Schwartz’s vast and spectacular body of work, the ACT cast displays magnificent vocal skills. Music supervisor Bryan Perri brings his considerable talents to enhance the incredible vocals as the cast sings their way down Broadway’s memory lane.Producer/director Daniel C. Levine has fully and successfully dedicated himself to this new medium, creating a performance that feels very live indeed. Cinematographer Barton Cortright uses his skills to perfection, creating a seamless flow of the action. The small set is well designed and utilized in the staging.The entire cast sings like meadowlarks. Simply sumptuous voices fill the attic as Susan and Dan unravel their story. Audiences are sharing a lovely night at the theater, in the comfort of their own homes.The ACT of CT production of Snapshots is available to stream on demand through February 28. Tickets start at $20; visit actofct.org to learn more and purchase tickets.Ticket holders have 48 hours to watch the production as many times as they like.Snapshots at ACT of CT review Elizabeth Young
Story ‘Snapshots’ A Win-Win For ACT-CT And Its AudiencesSnapshots at ACT of CT reviewFeaturesNone
The Top Of The Mountain
Newtown, from a cat's point of view.Trinity Episcopal Church had a pair of fundraisers last week. Members presented a Mardi Gras Drive-Thru dinner on February 13 and then a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper Drive-Thru on February 16. Trinity Communications and Membership Manager Kim Merrill checked for the final numbers this week and said the final tally for the two events topped $2,000 “in straight donation.” The $2,200 mentioned in coverage of last week’s Shrove Tuesday event was pre-expenses paid out, Kim noted. That money will now be divided between the heating oil fund of The Newtown Fund and FAITH Food Pantry, both based in town and both meant to help residents who need a hand during difficult times.Even as this town grieves the loss of Town Historian Dan Cruson this week, we are reminded by the flag on Main Street once again flying at half-staff of the 500,000 lives lost to the novel coronavirus pandemic this past year — including 60 of those lives in our town. Please take a moment to reflect on those lost to COVID and the people left behind when you pass this lowered flag. The flag will remain at half-staff until Friday evening at sunset.Paromita Dutt-Kunzweiler shares that her daughter, Kirtana Kunzweiler, a sophomore at Newtown High School, and husband, Stephen Kunzweiler, created a snow sculpture recently on their Taunton Hill Road property. Named “Snowpy,” the sculpture looks very much like the familiar Charles Schulz “Snoopy” character. “With social distancing, said Paromita, “[Kirtana] finds ways to amuse herself and others.” Hopefully, the strange mix of snow and rain has not completely washed away their good efforts.Welcome back to the movies! We are pleased to see that the movie theater at Edmond Town Hall has found sponsors recently to show some family movies. Although the number of tickets is limited, it does offer a teensy little return to normal times. Wearing masks in the theater, though, I think is a challenge if indulging in snacks... maybe it is possible to last two hours without eating? Just a thought.Last year, the St Rose Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry was toast, thanks to the onset of the pandemic. So if you missed it, your wait is rewarded with the return of the Friday night event now through April 2, at the 40 Church Hill Road site. Dinners of fish with fries or eggplant rollatini with fries are on the menu for the curbside or online orders only. (No indoor dining.) Visit kofc185.org/fish-fry to place an order ahead. It’s quite a bargain at $10 for adult meals and $6 for children’s meals.Where are all of our crafty readers? We are still hoping to hear from ten people who create something using a print edition of The Newtown Bee, who will also share their instructions and photos with eliza@thebee.com. The first ten to submit a unique craft will have their item featured in this newspaper, and will also receive a special handmade mask. Associate Editor Shannon Hicks is modeling her mask. She was gifted one through our 2020 DIY Secret Santa gift exchange. No worries: Shannon is keeping her mask. Our winners will receive their own brand-new masks.The Bent of the River Audubon Center is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Newtown, at 185 East Flat Hill Road in Southbury. If you’ve ever wished for a private tour of the 700-acre preserve, it’s magic time! According to their website, you can have a personal outdoor adventure guided by a Bent of the River naturalist. “Our guided nature experiences offer fun themes to choose from. You may have up to 9 people attend your program session. Please make sure each member of your party brings and wears a mask. Each program is up to two hours and is a daytime event unless otherwise noted.After booking your program — or gifting one to a friend — one of their naturalists will reach out to you (or your giftee) to discuss the date, time, and personalized program you are interested in doing. Register at audubonct.doubleknot.com/event/choose-your-audubon-adventure/2763139.Prices vary for bird walks, owl prowl, nature hike, river exploration, peeper prowl, vernal pool studies, and woodcocks & whiskey (for age 21 and up!). For questions, contact Kate Pratt at kathleen.pratt@audubon.org or 203-405-9113.Ticket purchases are final and non-refundable, but you can share your ticket with another if you cannot make it; rescheduling will be addressed if weather is inclement.Bird walks, owl prowls... what self-respecting cat would not want to support this beautiful center by registering for one of those?Kudos to all who in recent months donated to the Newtown Animal Control Shelter. It seems they have been overwhelmed by Newtown’s generous spirit, with so many donations of treats, food, toys, blankets, and more that they are actually running out of space to store it all. That’s a good problem to have, because it means the many creatures in their care will have all that they need as they wait for their forever homes. The staff at the shelter is very appreciative of this outpouring of support. Keep an eye on my column; I’ll let you know when the shelter lets me know that they are once more in need.We often do not think about space exploration, as once was the focus of every boy and girl. But last Thursday’s touchdown on Mars by the rover Perseverance sent a thrill through anyone who has since seen photos or video from the small car-sized rover sent those millions of miles through space. Not only will this machinery be collecting specimens and reporting back to planet Earth, but it landed with an attached helicopter that will soon be circling through the thin Mars atmosphere for images and information farther out. Congratulations to all who engineered this amazing feat. Who knows what exciting things we will find out about Mars, and what it will tell us about the past and our future?I’m told that Walgreens and Susan G. Komen have partnered together in the fight to end breast cancer. The funds raised by this partnership support breast cancer research and those diagnosed with breast cancer. Walgreens offers two ways for customers to donate to the “Raise Hope, End Cancer” fundraiser. Through the end of February and all of March, shoppers may donate their Walgreens Cash rewards to the “Raise Hope, End Cancer” fundraiser directly from their myWalgreens account online or through the mobile app. Additionally, shoppers may visit stores from February 28 to March 13 and make a pin-pad donation during checkout. All donations support those who need it today, and contribute to the search for tomorrow’s cures.Wreaths Across America (WAA) announces its 2021 Race Program, which will include a 737-mile virtual Escort To Arlington Challenge, two virtual Running For Wreaths options (5K and 10K available) in May and September, and one in-person Stem To Stone Remembrance Run this July, with a virtual option. This year’s race program is the result of an expanded partnership with event-management and timing company CompetitorME. The options for supporters provide an opportunity to build community awareness and understanding of WAA’s yearlong mission to “Remember, Honor, Teach.” Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The complete list of the race options and open registrations can be found at competitorme.com/wreaths-across-america.One nice thing about the snowfall this winter is that it has allowed for sledding fun! I’ve spotted kids (and some certainly out of the kid category) at Treadwell Park, and this past Sunday, families were taking advantage of the slopes at Holcombe Hill Preserve off of Great Hill Road. Wheeee! The downhill jaunts were eliciting plenty of whoops and hollers — of delight, I hope. With March around the corner, and spring officially just a little over three weeks away, sledding is an outdoor opportunity that “slips” by too soon. Have fun while you can!I’ll be slipping about town in search of news, as always. Be sure next week to... Read me again.Top of the Mountain Story The Top Of The MountainTop of the Mountain_215FeaturesNone
Swim Team Takes On Brookfield And Weston Newtown High School's boys' swimming and diving team visited Brookfield and fell 101-78 on February 20. The Nighthawks hosted Weston on February 23 and came away with a 95-76 victory. Newtown High School's boys' swimming and diving team visited Brookfield and fell 101-78 on February 20. The Nighthawks hosted Weston on February 23 and came away with a 95-76 victory. In the win over Weston, Newtown’s first-place finishes were as follows:200 Medley Relay: Peter Horan, Colden Bobowick, Dan Godino, and Connor Kwarcinski 1:45.34.200 Individual Medley: Gabe Petertonjes 2:21.31.50 Freestyle: Horan 23.19.Diving: Joe Moran with score of 174.65.100 Butterfly: Bobowick 1:01.65.100 Free: Horan 50.66.200 Free Relay: Bobowick, Matt Irving, Max Luci-Bernard, and Horan 1:38.89.The Hawks will host the Joel Barlow of Redding-Bethel co-op team on Tuesday, March 2 at 5 pm.NHS Swim Story Swim Team Takes On Brookfield And WestonNHS Swim_33SportsNone
Newtown High School's boys' swimming and diving team visited Brookfield and fell 101-78 on February 20. The Nighthawks hosted Weston on February 23 and came away with a 95-76 victory.
Cheer, Dance, And Track Competitions Approved, Wrestling Still On Hold Originally on hold amid the coronavirus pandemic due to being deemed high risk sports by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), there can be cheerleading, dance, and track competitions this winter after all.Originally on hold amid the coronavirus pandemic due to being deemed high risk sports by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), there can be cheerleading, dance, and track competitions this winter after all.Following recently revised guidance from the National Federation of State High School Associations, the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) met with representatives from the Connecticut DPH and Governor Lamont’s office to discuss how those revisions may impact interscholastic athletics, the CIAC announced on February 18. After that meeting, the CIAC formally requested consideration from the Connecticut DPH to revisit the winter sports of competitive cheerleading, competitive dance, wrestling, indoor track jumping events, and the spring sport of boys’ lacrosse, all considered high risk activities.In alignment with DPH’s detailed response and guidance, the CIAC Board of Control acted to permit virtual competition for competitive cheerleading and competitive dance beginning on March 1. Mask wearing will be required with the exception of brief removal of the masks by individuals engaged in stunts, lifts, tumbling, and other acrobatics. Masks must immediately be put back on after those specific activities are completed. Complete COVID-19 protocols and mitigating strategies for cheer and dance must be followed and will be redistributed to member schools this week, according to the CIAC announcement.Cheer and dance participants have been permitted to practice and perform while following social distancing protocols at basketball games. Now they will be allowed to have contact and, thus, do some activities that have been on hold.“We are really excited to get back and stunt,” said Susan Bridges, coach of the Newtown High cheerleading team.That said, an end-of-season competition will not happen, said Bridges, adding that the State Cheer Committee discussed possibilities earlier this week.Cheerleaders usually train and practice stunts just about year-round. That has not been the case, and the team would have a very limited time in which to put together routines for competition given that a winter championship would have to be held prior to the start of spring sports in late March.“It will be difficult. You have to balance safety and level of skill on what you think they can do and the amount of time allotted and go from there,” Bridges said.The NHS cheer coach said smaller scale virtual meets will be held.Newtown's dance team is also planning to participate in virtual competitions. The track team plans to participate in dual meets.In alignment with DPH’s recommendation, the CIAC Board of Control will continue with only conditioning and noncontact skill building in wrestling.The board set March 1 as the date schools may begin indoor track dual meets; those competing in running events must wear masks. In alignment with DPH, those competing in jumping activities will be allowed to remove their masks during the approach and jump before putting the mask back on after the jump is complete. All other previously approved COVID-19 protocols and mitigating strategies for indoor track must be followed.Gymnastics is a sport that, similarly, allows athletes to remove masks during competition at events. Swimming is another.With the entire spring season wiped out last year, the CIAC has set out to ensure, to the best of its ability, that a full spring campaign will be held in 2021. The group is in the process of developing COVID-19 mitigating plans for all spring sports, which will begin on March 27, with the first contest date on April 10.Boys’ lacrosse is being considered. CIAC officials are looking into mitigating strategies such as adjusting face-offs to limit close contact.The final date for regular season games to count toward the state tournament will be May 27. The CIAC plans to hold traditional spring sports tournaments from June 1 through June 13.The CIAC Board of Control discussed fan/spectator attendance at winter sport events and reaffirmed its current position, which recommends that fans/spectators not be allowed; however, due to the complexity of venues around the state, it leaves the final decision to each local district. If a district chooses to allow fans, all Department of Economic and Community Development sector rules for fan/spectator attendance at sporting events should be followed.CIAC Approves More Sports Andy Hutchison
Story Cheer, Dance, And Track Competitions Approved, Wrestling Still On HoldCIAC Approves More SportsFeatured Slider, SportsNone
Working Overtime: Hockey Team Earns Tie And Extra Time Victory Behind Makris Tallies It was quite a competitive, and rewarding, week for the Newtown-New Fairfield high school co-op hockey team. The Nighthawks skated to a 2-2 tie with New Milford on February 17, then overcame the Joel Barlow-Abbott Tech-Weston team 2-1 in overtime on February 20. It was quite a competitive, and rewarding, week for the Newtown-New Fairfield high school co-op hockey team. The Nighthawks skated to a 2-2 tie with New Milford on February 17, then overcame the Joel Barlow-Abbott Tech-Weston team 2-1 in overtime on February 20. Both games took place at Danbury Ice Arena.In the deadlock with New Milford, Jack Benzing was set up by Phil Makris and Makris lit the lamp with an unassisted tally.“We were happy with that. It was a good game. New Milford is a tough team to play,” Esposito said.In their first two contests, the Nighthawks were shut out 2-0 by the Bethel-Brookfield-Danbury squad and fell 3-1 to Milford as this first-year co-op with New Fairfield got going.“We’ve really been struggling to find the net,” said Esposito, adding that it seemed like things would turn during a handful of flurries near the New Milford goal. “The puck would just not go in. It was right there on the doorstep.”Goaltender Markus Paltauf and the Newtown-New Fairfield defense again worked hard to help keep the Nighthawks in the game. Paltauf made 29 saves on 31 New Milford shots.Against Barlow, the Nighthawks pulled out the dramatic win as Makris scored both times. He tied things late in the third period with a goal assisted by James Celentano and John O’Sullivan, then won the game with seconds left in OT; Cam Gouveia and Ronan McAllister had the assists.The Hawks were fortunate to escape with the win as penalties piled up against them in the final minute-plus of regulation and early stages of the ten-minute overtime.Newtown found itself having to kill off a three overlapping penalties, including about three minutes of 5-on-3 Barlow power play time.“It was a pretty chaotic and exciting game,” Esposito noted. “Kudos to the penalty killers — they did an outstanding job. The kids overcame it. They stayed positive.”Paltauf stopped 33 shots in the win, and got help from defensemen McAllister, O’Sullivan, and Eli Kirby, along with forwards Gouveia and Wiley Harris during the penalty kills.“They really kept us in the game there,” Esposito said. “We killed the penalties and jumped off that momentum.”Ed Faircloth contributed to the offense with some scoring chances in the Barlow game.Newtown’s scheduled contest with Masuk of Monroe was postponed when there was early school dismissal during the February 22 snow.The Hawks will have a rematch with the Barlow-led team at Danbury Ice Arena for Newtown’s Senior Day game Saturday, February 27, at 11:30 am.NHS Hockey Andy Hutchison
Story Working Overtime: Hockey Team Earns Tie And Extra Time Victory Behind Makris TalliesNHS Hockey_42SportsNone
Coronavirus Complicates NHS Boys’ Basketball Season But Hawks Make Most Of Opportunities It was a disappointing week for Newtown High School’s boys’ basketball team, which lost one game with its standout center out of the lineup, then may have lost one or two more opportunities to play due to coronavirus quarantine protocol impacting opposing teams.It was a disappointing week for Newtown High School’s boys’ basketball team, which lost one game with its standout center out of the lineup, then may have lost one or two more opportunities to play due to coronavirus quarantine protocol impacting opposing teams.The Nighthawks, with standout Jack Petersen unavailable due to protocol, kept things close early on before visiting Kolbe Cathedral of Bridgeport pulled away for a 63-39 triumph on February 17.A scheduled home contest with Masuk of Monroe on February 23 has been postponed and Newtown's Monday, March 1 scheduled home contest with Notre Dame-Fairfield will also be postponed; Notre Dame’s February 20 and 23 games were not played. Whether or not games will be rescheduled remains to be seen, but dates are limited in this truncated season. Weston and Joel Barlow of Redding have upcoming games postponed.Newtown is scheduled to visit Stratford on Friday, February 26, with tipoff set for 7:15 pm. “I am hopeful that any makeups will occur, but more importantly, I am hopeful that every program around the state has the good fortune to stay well. Personally, I’m grateful for any time on the court with our team, practice or actual games,” Tallcouch said.Newtown’s underclassmen got some more opportunity to play in the Kolbe game and held their own until the second half.The Hawks trailed just 22-19 and came up with multiple stops on the defensive end of the court to create chances to overtake the Cougars, only to come up empty. Kolbe led 28-19 at the half.Kolbe started the third quarter on an 8-0 run to seize a 36-19 advantage. Newtown scored seven unanswered to get the deficit down to ten with 4:50 to play in the stanza. The Cougars canned back-to-back 3-pointers within seconds thanks to one of Newtown’s 14 turnovers, and Kolbe kept pulling away.Tallcouch said the Hawks look to limit turnovers to under ten per game and that his team’s youth and inexperience likely led the mistakes.Kolbe is a traditionally one of the best in the South-West Conference, but Tallcouch believes there are no easy games.“They’re all tough. ... Playing a team like Kolbe — well coached, highly athletic — for our guys, we played slightly shorthanded and we did a nice job,” said Tallcouch, adding that his players will gain experience from this contest and get better as the season unfolds.Isaiah Williams scored a dozen points. Charlie Sepp had a double-double as he dropped in 11 points and grabbed a career-high 13 rebounds. Joe McCray had seven points.Sophomores Sepp, Cam Ward, Saahil Ray, Connor Dullinger, Kevin Murray, and Connor Hintze all got playing time.NHS Boys Basketball Andy Hutchison
Story Coronavirus Complicates NHS Boys’ Basketball Season But Hawks Make Most Of OpportunitiesNHS Boys Basketball_88SportsNone
Girls Drop Close One At Kolbe And Topple Masuk Following a 4-0 start to the season, Newtown High School’s girls’ basketball team had its toughest test thus far and came up just short in a 50-46 setback at Kolbe Cathedral of Bridgeport on February 20, then came up with a 55-26 triumph at Masuk of Monroe on February 23.Following a 4-0 start to the season, Newtown High School’s girls’ basketball team had its toughest test thus far and came up just short in a 50-46 setback at Kolbe Cathedral of Bridgeport on February 20, then came up with a 55-26 triumph at Masuk of Monroe on February 23.“We showed some end-of-game inexperience,” Newtown Coach Jeremy O’Connell said of the Kolbe game, adding that only senior captain Emma Magazu had any prior closely contested varsity game experience among the Nighthawks on the court that day.O’Connell was pleased with the fact his young Nighthawks hung in there despite Kolbe draining seven 3-pointers and hitting a near-perfect 17 of 18 foul shots.“In a normal season that’s a great building block loss. When it’s halfway through the season, being our season is so short, that’s a hard one to build off,” O’Connell said.Newtown bounced back — “shaking the cobwebs off from Saturday’s game,” as the Newtown coach put it — with the victory over Masuk.Chloe O’Connell hit a trio of 3-pointers and dropped in 17 points, Julia Gerace scored nine, Maddie Patrick had six, and Magazu and Allie Bradley each tacked on five in the Kolbe game.Against Masuk, Gerace had 15 to lead the way. O’Connell scored eight, Bella Gerace had seven, and Patrick and Bradley both scored six. Izzy Caron and Macey Cuomo both had their first varsity points, with Caron scoring five and Cuomo adding two in the victory over the Panthers.Bradley had six rebounds and O’Connell tallied five boards in the Masuk game. Magazu had three of Newtown’s 12 steals, and Julia had a pair of takeaways.This leaves the team with just six games to play in this truncated regular slate before the conference tournament commences. Newtown hosts Stratford on Friday, February 26, then visits defending South-West Conference champion Notre Dame of Fairfield on Monday, March 1.NHS Girls Basketball Andy Hutchison
Story Girls Drop Close One At Kolbe And Topple MasukNHS Girls Basketball_78SportsNone
NOTE: Due to continued COVID-19 concerns, most meetings are being conducted remotely. Click through the agenda once posted below for participation information.
Mr. Trump did not suddenly cause these citizens to believe and behave this way. They were already predisposed to not believe in and or trust their government. This is what should be concerning us. The Trump supporters are the obverse dide of the coin from the BLM/Antifa Activists. Neither believes their government represents or cares about them.
How many of us really believe our elected officials (beyond the local level) really represent us. One of our Senators until recently did not have property or a physical residence in Connecticut. He used his parents address. And his wife and children are residents of Northern Virginia, they own a house there, pay taxes there, register their cars there, and the wife votes there. How much does he have in common with a Connecticut Resident ?
I think we are not seeing "Zoom Fatigue" but a sense that no one listens to these Zoom Hearings. Look at the Legislature's hearings on Religious Exemption for refusing a vaccine. They scheduled Zoom comments around the clock. How many people watched, looked at later, or read the Comments at 2 or 3 AM ? A complete waste of time. And there was one picture of a legislator sleeping during the Zoom hearing. How many members of the Committee were even logged on during the night time comments ?
And for part timers, you do a pretty good job of moderating these forums.
The USA is not designed to be a "true" democracy. The founders of the nation had the wisdom and foresight to be concerned that the whims of the public, even the majority, can change rapidly and may not always be in the best interest of the country. As a result, they created a republic, or better said - a constitutional federal republic - as our system of government which has survived and served us well for centuries.
It’s upsetting that is article came from a place of love and appreciation, and someone has to go and comment like this is a Yelp review ! If you feel this way about NVS, you should have posted your own story along time ago. THIS post was supposed to be for the employees there that dedicated their all to helping this pet, and they couldn’t even have that time to shine ! I bet half the people who come to wouldn’t last one day or even an hour doing what they do and dealing with the people they deal with all while being in high stress situations and keeping a smile. It’s a shame that a loving post had to have someone negative feel the need to comment. That’s like standing up at someone’s funeral after a nice speech and saying how you actually didn’t like that person and listing reasons why. Time and a place buddy ! Very distasteful!
Claudia and family - We were all blessed with so much laughter when in Jim's presence that I know this will carry you through these difficult times. I am honored to have been part of his breakfast club after our workouts at the gym in Ridgefield, which then became the birthday club once you moved to Newtown. I will continue to celebrate with a fresh batch of muffins every November in his honor. Thank you for welcoming me into your family and although I am sad for the loss of my friend, I am inspired by the strength of your loving relationship and the power of laughter that he brought to you, your children, his grandchildren and all who knew him. He continues to make me smile. With love, Nadya Antoniades
