New NFA Executive Director Hosts Bonfire Meet & Greet
As the sun began to set, visitors trekked up the driveway to the top of Holcombe Hill Wildlife Preserve to enjoy a casual gathering Newtown Forest Association hosted November 20.As the sun began to set, visitors trekked up the driveway to the top of Holcombe Hill Wildlife Preserve to enjoy a casual gathering Newtown Forest Association (NFA) hosted November 20. The event was originally scheduled to take place the previous weekend, but it was postponed due to rain.The public was invited to meet NFA’s first executive director Trent McCann and various NFA board members in attendance.Everyone was bundled in coats but as each newcomer arrived, people warmly welcomed them with conversation and a spot by the bonfire.Guests were also able to go inside the nearby building to indulge in a variety of autumn snacks and refreshments, as well as indoor heat.NFA volunteers Charles Zukowski and Glenn Boyle, who are also members of the Newtown Bike & Trails Committee, shared that they hope more people explore NFA’s open space and trails.Boyle noted he is excited to have McCann join NFA and that he is single-handedly doing so much for the organization.Newtown resident Ed Kelleher, who has been an NFA board member since 2002, told The Newtown Bee that McCann has been doing a “great job” as executive director.He added that McCann really had to “hit the ground running” in terms of starting his new position with NFA and then getting the paperwork done for the organization’s accreditation.Public Input SoughtThe land trust accreditation program, according to a recent NFA press release, recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Newtown Forest Association is applying for renewal of accreditation. A public comment period is now open.According to the release, “The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each applicant’s policies and programs. Renewal of our accreditation means that the community can continue to trust that the NFA is doing everything in our power to protect open spaces with integrity and transparency.”The public can share input on how NFA complies with national quality standards that address the technical and ethical operation of a land trust.For more information on the list of standards, visit landtrustaccreditation.org/help-and-resources/indicator-practices.Comments are requested by December 31. Visit landtrustaccreditation.org to learn more and/or make comments. Comments can also be submitted via e-mail to info@landtrustaccreditation.org, faxed to, 518-587-3183, or via USPS to Land Trust Accreditation Commission — Attn Public Comments, 36 Phila Street — Suite 2, Saratoga Springs NY 12866.Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.NFA Bonfire Meet and Greet recap Alissa Silber
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Flags Lowered For Robert Dole, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day American flags were lowered yesterday, following a proclamation from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr calling for the mark of respect upon the death of Robert Joseph Dole. They had also been scheduled to fly at half-staff this week on the 80th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor.American flags were lowered yesterday, following a proclamation from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr calling for the mark of respect upon the death of Robert Joseph Dole.Dole, “a statesman like few in our history and a war hero among the greatest of the Greatest Generation,” the president’s proclamation said in part, died Sunday, December 5.Dole, 95, was a former US Senator, a member of the US House of Representatives, and three-time presidential candidate.He was also a World War II veteran, having served in the US Army’s 10th Mountain Division.President Biden’s proclamation called for flags to be lowered on Sunday, and to remain lowered until sunset Thursday, December 9.Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the US flag, all other flags — including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise — should also be lowered during this same duration of time.Hook & Ladder firefighters lowered the Main Street flag Sunday evening.Pearl Harbor RemembranceThe president last week had already issued a proclamation ahead of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Flags were to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on December 7. Tuesday will mark the 80th anniversary of the attacks by the Imperial Japanese Navy on US Armed Forces at Pearl Harbor and other locations in Hawaii. The annual remembrance honors the 2,403 service members and civilians killed in that attack, which led to the United States entering World War II.In his proclamation issued December 3, Biden called December 7, 1941 “a day that still lives in infamy 80 years later.“As we mark National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we honor the patriots who perished, commemorate the valor of all those who defended our Nation, and recommit ourselves to carrying forth the ensuing peace and reconciliation that brought a better future for our world. Today, we give thanks to the Greatest Generation, who guided our Nation through some of our darkest moments and laid the foundations of an international system that has transformed former adversaries into allies,” the proclamation continued.Biden’s proclamation recalled his visit a decade ago to the USS Arizona Memorial.“To this day, beads of oil still rise to the surface of the water — metaphorical ‘Black Tears’ shed for those lost in the attack. Reading those names etched in marble was a mournful reminder of the sacrifices and the human cost of protecting our Nation and the ideals this great country represents. Our Nation remains forever indebted to all those who gave their last full measure of devotion eight decades ago. We will never forget those who perished, and we will always honor our sacred obligation to care for our service members, veterans, and their families, caregivers, and survivors,” his statement continued.Biden encouraged Americans to “reflect on the courage shown by our brave warriors that day and remember their sacrifices. I ask us all to give sincere thanks and appreciation to the survivors of that unthinkable day.”The President asked for flags to be lowered, the proclamation further stated, “in honor of those American patriots who died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor.”=====Associate Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.
American flags were lowered yesterday, following a proclamation from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr calling for the mark of respect upon the death of Robert Joseph Dole. They had also been scheduled to fly at half-staff this week on the 80th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor.
Help Still Needed For 2021 Newtown Fund Holiday Basket ProgramOrganizers of The Newtown Fund Holiday Basket Program are still hoping residents and friends will be able to help those in need this holiday season. The Holiday Basket program is a community-wide effort organized by The Newtown Fund (TNF) each year. Countless Newtown residents, businesses, and organizations generously donate time and resources to support Newtown families in need during the holiday season. The program culminates on Depot Day, when all items and gifts are organized and delivered to those who have requested them. Organizers are still hoping residents will step up in time to help those in need this month.According to TNF Vice President Anne Ragusa, among those who are instrumental in the success of the program are Natalie Jackson, director of human services for the Town of Newtown; and TNF Holiday Basket Coordinator Alison Kistner.Jackson and her team reach out to residents in need and obtain information about what the specific needs are for those families.With the needs and wishes of 80 or more families to fulfill, Jackson takes on the Herculean task of organizing all of that information and then providing it to Kistner.Kistner then takes that information and pairs individuals and families with “adopters” from the community who have committed to providing food and gifts to the families.Adopters are individuals, families, businesses, and community organizations that are willing to donate to an individual or family to make their holidays special. Some adopters have been consistently donating to TNF for dozens of years.Kistner also keeps in touch with the adopters to answer questions and send reminders throughout the adopting process.Help Still NeededAny family that wishes to be adopted can contact Newtown Human Services at 203-270-4330. Applicants are screened by the Town of Newtown department to make sure they meet eligibility requirements. By late November, TNF knows how many individuals, couples, and families need to be “adopted” for that year’s Holiday Basket Program.The names of those seeking adoption are known only to Human Services; each recipient is identified to TNF only by a number, with only their gender and general age also shared. The wish list of each person, couple, or family is also provided to the fund, which distributes it to those who want to do an adoption.Bates told The Newtown Bee in January that TNF’s Holiday Basket Program adopted out 97 families for the 2020 holiday season. The program provided gifts and food, she said, for 295 people: 125 adults (ages 18-61), 44 senior citizens (age 62 and up), and 96 children (age 17 and under.In 2019, 62 families were aided; in 2018 it was 68 families, representing 100 adults and 60 children. The previous year, the fund aided 71 families.It seems 1992 may have been the standard bearer for the most challenging year for the program. That year, 124 families — representing 400 people, according to our archives — were served through the program, which began in 1964 as a distribution of Christmas food baskets. That first year, 40 families — 200 people — received boxes of gifts and food.The date for distributing gifts and food to the adopted families — called Depot Day — this year is Saturday, December 11. There is still a need for individuals and organizations to adopt a family for this year.For the second year, Depot Day will be done via direct delivery to the homes of adoptees. Until last year, all items were collected at a central location and then either delivered or picked up by families. COVID precautions led to the change of Depot Day collection and distribution until further notice.To adopt a family or make a financial donation, visit TheNewtownFund.org or e-mail NewtownFund@gmail.com. All contributions are tax deductible.For additional information about The Newtown Fund, which operates year-round, visit its website.MUST Newtown Fund Depot Day fast approaching, Jackson & Kistner highlighted Story Help Still Needed For 2021 Newtown Fund Holiday Basket ProgramMUST Newtown Fund Depot Day fast approaching, Jackson & Kistner highlightedCultural Events, NewsNone
Hwang Still Newtown Senator After Redistricting The 28th Connecticut Senate District, currently represented by Sen Tony Hwang, will still cover all of Newtown after a redistricting plan.Following a redistricting plan in the Connecticut House of Representatives that saw Newtown lose two representatives but gain another, Newtown will see no change in its senator. The town will stay squarely in Senator Tony Hwang’s 28th District.“I’m thrilled to still be serving Newtown in its entirety,” Hwang, a Republican, told The Newtown Bee in a November 30 interview shortly after Connecticut’s bipartisan Reapportionment Commission voted unanimously on a redistricting plan for the Senate on November 23.Hwang said that while he was not on the redistricting committee, he did implore them to allow him to continue to represent Newtown.“There’s so much that needs to be done in the community,” said Hwang.“For me, it’s important to be representing Newtown,” said Hwang. It is also important, he added, to work with State Reps Mitch Bolinsky and Stephen Harding. The recent redistricting added Sandy Hook to Bolinsky’s coverage area. Harding’s 107th district, previously covering Brookfield and parts of Bethel and Danbury, now includes some neighborhoods in Hawleyville and northern Newtown.“Having the longest tenure [of those representing Newtown], I take responsibility for anyone new coming in to represent Newtown to have a greater appreciation and understanding of the town.”Hwang said Newtown has “tremendous pride,” and he sees it as a “unique town and a unique responsibility” to represent it.“I just love representing Newtown,” said Hwang.The 28th District will also be adding a part of Bethel, which Hwang said shares “a lot of the same challenges and concerns as Newtown,” such as the development of the Route 6 and I-84 Exit 9 corridor.He said there are still challenges to address with the COVID pandemic, seeking to “balance safety with normalizing moving forward for schools and communities.” He also said there is “a lot of work to do” in helping businesses going through times that are still challenging.“There are federal and state funds available, but we still need to focus on supporting and sustaining our current businesses,” said Hwang. “We also need to bring in new business and new economic revitalization.”Hwang also said that the Senate has to look at how to help the schools, to “take care of the challenges that COVID has wrought.”Around the rest of the state, the redistricting map puts Stamford, the second-largest and fastest-growing city, in three Senate districts.Nearly all of the state’s growth came in Fairfield County over the past decade, necessitating significant changes to a half-dozen districts in the state’s southwest corner, though none seemed to dramatically tip the balance of power.The commission made modest changes elsewhere in the 36 Senate districts, maintaining maps that center two districts in each of the other three largest cities: Bridgeport, New Haven, and Hartford. It adopted a state House map last week.The panel missed the November 30 constitutional deadline to produce a congressional district map, meaning that its work must be completed before the end of December under the supervision of the state Supreme Court.Passage of the Senate map came without debate in an 11-minute meeting conducted via Zoom, a reflection that the maps in Connecticut are resolved by negotiation. The statewide map and district maps are available on the commission’s web site.Unlike many other states where control of the state legislature yields the ability to dictate new districts, the process in Connecticut is bipartisan, regardless of which party controls the General Assembly.Senate Minority Leader Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford), a cochair of the commission, felt it was “truly a bipartisan effort. We had great collaboration, cooperation and coordination.”Senate President Pro Tem Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) said Connecticut has “a much better approach to this … potentially fraught political process. We have a much better approach than most of the country does on this.”Stamford will be in three districts — the 36th, 27th and 26th. To get into Stamford, the 26th District represented by Sen Will Haskell (D-Westport), will reach through Darien and New Canaan.Sen Patricia Billie Miller (D-Stamford) now represents the 27th District of southern Stamford and a slice of Darien.The northern portion of Stamford is in the 36th District, with all of Greenwich and about two-thirds of New Canaan. It has been competitive, with a Democrat winning the seat in the past two regular elections. Sen Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) reclaimed the seat for the GOP in a special election this year.The new map puts more of Republican New Canaan in the 36th, a boost for Fazio’s reelection, though not necessarily enough to make it a safe GOP seat. Once a GOP stronghold, Greenwich has been trending Democratic, like much of Fairfield County.“It’s not the Greenwich of years past,” Kelly said.The nearby 26th District district of Haskell loses Bethel and will snake through a narrow corridor of Republican Darien and New Canaan into Democratic Stamford. Like Stamford, Darien now will be in three districts.“It’s reflective of the huge growth in Fairfield County, but especially in Stamford, and the need for some districts to be reworked to accommodate that growth,” Haskell said.Haskell said his current district generally lies on a north-south axis, while the new one will be more east to west.“That’s actually how people commute in Fairfield County,” he said.Hartford lost population in the 2020 Census. As a result, the 1st District of Sen John Fonfara (D-Hartford), whose political base is the city’s South End, now reaches well into the North End and further south into Wethersfield.Editor’s note: Content in this localized report originally appeared at CTMirror.org, the website of The Connecticut Mirror, an independent, nonprofit news organization covering government, politics, and public policy in the state.Reporter Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.Hwang Still Newtown Senator After Redistricting Jim Taylor
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Fire Reports | November 23-30, 2021
Fire calls and their responders in Newtown, Conn., for the period of November 23 to November 30, 2021.The dispatchers at the Newtown Emergency Communications Center, at 191 South Main Street, report the following fire calls and the responders:Tuesday, November 23: 9:13 am, motor vehicle accident (MVA) with injury, Main Street at Currituck Road, Hook & Ladder and Hawleyville responded; 11:10 am, commercial fire alarm (CFA), Toddy Hill Road, Botsford, Hook & Ladder, and Sandy Hook responded; 7:08 pm, residential fire alarm (RFA), Orchard Hill Road, Botsford responded; 9:32 pm, MVA with injury, I-84 East between Exits 11 and 10, Sandy Hook responded.Wednesday, November 24: 4:54 am, medical assist, High Rock Road, Botsford responded; 5:17 pm, MVA with injury, Mt Pleasant at Blackman Road, Hook & Ladder responded; 6:44 pm, chimney fire, Orchard Hill Road, Botsford and Hook & Ladder responded; 7:38 pm, medical assist, South Main Street, Hook & Ladder responded.Thursday, November 25: 12:09 am, RFA, Longview Heights Road, Dodgingtown responded; 8:21 am, service call, Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder covered; 11:15 am, CFA, Nunnawauk Road, Hook & Ladder and Botsford responded; 1:19 pm, RFA, Hanover Road, Hook & Ladder and Sandy Hook responded; 4:52 pm, medical assist, Housatonic Drive, Sandy Hook responded; 5:43 pm, medical assist, Mt Pleasant Road, Hawleyville responded; 9:53 pm, medical assist, Georges Hill Road, Hawleyville responded; 11:59 pm, brush fire, Hanover Road, Hook & Ladder responded.Friday, November 26: 2:23 pm, chimney fire, Hanover Road, Hook & Ladder and Hawleyville responded.Saturday, November 27: 6:00 pm, MVA with injury, Mt Pleasant at Saw Mill Road, Hawleyville responded.Sunday, November 28: 4:36 pm, MVA with injury, Currituck Road at Main Street, Hook & Ladder responded; 4:40 pm, hazardous materials, Dodgingtown Road at Rooster Ridge Road, Dodgingtown responded; 5:49 pm, cover assignment, Pocono Road, Hawleyville covered.Monday, November 29: 5:58 pm, service call, Oakview Road at Watkins Drive, Sandy Hook covered; 8:40 pm, hazardous materials, Hanover Road, Hook & Ladder responded; 10:34 pm, MVA with injury, I-84 East between Exits 10 and 11, Sandy Hook responded; 11:16 pm, gas leak, Hemlock Road, Botsford responded.Tuesday, November 30: 4:48 am, CFA, South Main Street, Botsford responded; 11:17 am, CFA, Church Hill Road, Hook & Ladder and Sandy Hook responded; 11:57 am, CFA, South Main Street, Botsford and Hook & Ladder responded; 2:00 pm, MVA with injury, South Main Street at Bears Hill Road, Botsford responded; 6:41 pm, CO alarm, Black Bridge Road, Sandy Hook responded.Fire Reports | November 23-30, 2021 Story Fire Reports | November 23-30, 2021Fire Reports | August 18-24, 2021NewsNone
Planning Begins For Hawley School HVAC Work With the Hawley School HVAC project approved at referendum, the town has hired Downes Construction Company as the project manager.With deadlines looming so that work can begin in summer when school is out, the town has chosen Downes Construction Company of New Britain as the construction project manager for the Hawley School HVAC project.Voters approved the project at referendum on November 2.First Selectman Dan Rosenthal said that choosing Downes, who was the preconstruction project manager, will save time so that work can begin in the window of time of the school's summer break."We have a tight time frame," said Ronsenthal. "They already have bid packages prepared."Additionally, Downes is waiving a $16,000 fee for procurement services.Normally, the town would go through a Request For Quotes (RFQ) bid process, but Rosenthal said that there would be challenges if the town followed that procedure. Rosenthal wondered if there would be many responses right before the holidays. He also believed that while Downes had a bid package ready to go, an RFQ process would take until next year and the winner of the RFQ "would likely be Downes."Purchasing Agent Rick Spreyer also recommended the town not issue an RFQ. The town's purchasing process does allow that to be waived."I have a feeling we'd just end up in the same place [in terms of cost]," said Rosenthal. "It'd be a risk to the project budget and timeframe. We have a lot riding on moving forward and hitting our window of time. Missing the window is probably not in the best interests of the taxpayers."Rosenthal said he was "satisfied we're hiring a competent construction manager," and that in terms of fees, Downes is "in line with what we were expecting." He said that in an RFQ process it is not just who has the lowest fee, but a balance of who can do the best job at the best fee."This will keep the trains running on time and gave me a level of comfort moving forward this way," the first selectman said.Spreyer said the town had the opportunity to hire Downes for the entirety of the project, which he recommended since they have an "intimate knowledge of the designs" as well as doing the budget and working with the architect."If we hired someone else, we'd have to go through the RFQ process, and the new design firm would have to get familiar with the design drawings," said Spreyer. "We wouldn't get to bid until late January or early February." Hiring Downes, he said, "made the most sense to move the project forward on a timely basis."Spreyer also noted the town has a good relationship Downes, having worked with the company before, and with Project Executive Jeff Anderson."We've worked with Downes on the permanent memorial, which has been on budget and on time," said Spreyer. "They have a good track record and have already put a ton of work in."At a November 23 Public Buildings and Site Commission meeting, members of the commission pushed Downes to move forward its timetable for bids due to concerns about available of construction supplies and equipment due to supply chain shortages. Project Manager Michael Dell'Accio believed that Downes could go out to bid for subcontractors to do the work by early January."We're going out to bid early, that leaves lots of time to procure materials and equipment," Dell'Accio said.PBSC Chairman Art Norton asked if it were possible to have bid documents ready before the holidays so that any site walks by contractors looking to bid could be conducted over the Christmas and New Year's holiday break. Dell'Accio replied that it could be done.Project Designer Christopher Williams of Chris Williams Architects expressed concern, however, saying that some contractors may not be available to do site walks over the holidays and asked that a second site walk window also be set."We'll cut it close but it can be done," said Dell'Accio.PBSC member Gus Brennan expressed concerns about the lead time to acquire equipment and supplies being up to six months."We should consider prepurchase for some with long lead times," said Brennan.Rosenthal asked if Dell'Accio could prepare "at least a rough schedule" so that if some contractor bids come in that are over what is budgeted the town has time to send them back out to bid."I'm a little concerned if we wind up with a surprise and don't have any time to fix it," Rosenthal said. "We have a window that we have to hit."Rosenthal said that once a schedule is sent, bids will go out and then site walks will be done. When the bids come in, Downes will review bids to see if they all meet the project scope.Preliminary subcontractor bids will be due by January 10, with a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) ideally to be set by the end of January, said Rosenthal. The GMP will include the contingency and soft costs, and "establishes everything.""I feel we're in a good position right now," said Rosenthal. "We have six months but don't want to squander the time we have."Rosenthal said he always feels "a bit nervous" until all the bids come in."I'm confident we're in a good spot," he said, although he also added "you never know" until all bids are looked at.Reporter Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.Planning For Hawley School HVAC Work Begins Jim Taylor
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A number of stories were posted at newtownbee.com this past weekend. In case you missed them, here is a list of some of those stories:
“Planning Begins For Hawl...
New NFA Executive Director Hosts Bonfire Meet & Greet
As the sun began to set, visitors trekked up the driveway to the top of Holcombe Hill Wildlife Preserve to enjoy a casual gathering Newtown Forest Association hosted November 20.As the sun began to set, visitors trekked up the driveway to the top of Holcombe Hill Wildlife Preserve to enjoy a casual gathering Newtown Forest Association (NFA) hosted November 20. The event was originally scheduled to take place the previous weekend, but it was postponed due to rain.The public was invited to meet NFA’s first executive director Trent McCann and various NFA board members in attendance.Everyone was bundled in coats but as each newcomer arrived, people warmly welcomed them with conversation and a spot by the bonfire.Guests were also able to go inside the nearby building to indulge in a variety of autumn snacks and refreshments, as well as indoor heat.NFA volunteers Charles Zukowski and Glenn Boyle, who are also members of the Newtown Bike & Trails Committee, shared that they hope more people explore NFA’s open space and trails.Boyle noted he is excited to have McCann join NFA and that he is single-handedly doing so much for the organization.Newtown resident Ed Kelleher, who has been an NFA board member since 2002, told The Newtown Bee that McCann has been doing a “great job” as executive director.He added that McCann really had to “hit the ground running” in terms of starting his new position with NFA and then getting the paperwork done for the organization’s accreditation.Public Input SoughtThe land trust accreditation program, according to a recent NFA press release, recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Newtown Forest Association is applying for renewal of accreditation. A public comment period is now open.According to the release, “The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each applicant’s policies and programs. Renewal of our accreditation means that the community can continue to trust that the NFA is doing everything in our power to protect open spaces with integrity and transparency.”The public can share input on how NFA complies with national quality standards that address the technical and ethical operation of a land trust.For more information on the list of standards, visit landtrustaccreditation.org/help-and-resources/indicator-practices.Comments are requested by December 31. Visit landtrustaccreditation.org to learn more and/or make comments. Comments can also be submitted via e-mail to info@landtrustaccreditation.org, faxed to, 518-587-3183, or via USPS to Land Trust Accreditation Commission — Attn Public Comments, 36 Phila Street — Suite 2, Saratoga Springs NY 12866.Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.NFA Bonfire Meet and Greet recap Alissa Silber
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This Year’s NewArts ‘Christmas Carol’ May Be The First Of Many On Main StreetThe NewArts director of operations is very excited about this year’s production of A Christmas Carol. Performances begin next weekend at Edmond Town Hall. NOTE (Monday, December 6, 2021): This feature has been updated to include mention of previous productions done at Newtown High School. * * * * *The NewArts director of operations is very excited about this year’s production of A Christmas Carol.The theatrical arm of The 12.14 Foundation is not only working with a cast primarily made up of local residents of all ages, and building an audience of the same, it is also preparing to perform in its hometown for the first time in a few years.David Thompson’s adaptation of the Charles Dickens story of redemption, love, and compassion will have eight performances over two weekends this month at Edmond Town Hall Theatre. Ryan Loucks, the recently hired director of operations, thinks the historic building is the place for that show.“It’s exciting to do such a classic show on Main Street Newtown,” Loucks said this week. Seated in The Mary Hawley Room within Edmond Town Hall Monday morning, Loucks took time to speak with The Newtown Bee about the production and his hopes for the company.“Doing the show here specifically,” he said, “it’s too perfect. We gain a lot just in the ambiance.”The building was constructed in 1929-30, and dedicated in 1930. It has long served as the heart and center of the community, providing space for entertainment, events, sports, and governmental and civic activities. Its board of managers remains committed to the care and maintenance of the iconic building.At the center of the Georgian style building is its 500-seat theater. When they arrive for the NewArts performances December 11-12 and 17-19, audiences will walk through the familiar lobby with its grand ceiling, past the matching marquee boards on either side of the room, and through heavy doors that thousands if not millions of others have passed through for nearly 100 years en route to their seats.Before the curtain even goes up, ticket holders will have walked through spaces decorated by the production’s hosts. Employees of Edmond Town Hall have decked the building with holiday sprays, wreaths, poinsettia plants, and even a full-size tree that stands just north of the building’s box office.“All of these decorations,” Loucks said, motioning around him, “these are all theirs, and they just add to what we’re going to offer.”Everything Under One RoofLoucks hopes to fill that theater — or at least the 80% of the seating that will be used, with COVID-19 precautions still in place — for all eight of the planned performances of A Christmas Carol.“I’m really proud of these kids, and very excited for their hard work to be seen by the community,” he said. Rehearsals began just after auditions, which were in early October, he said.“They’ve been working so hard,” he said.While based in Newtown, NewArts does not have a formal home ... yet. Loucks is determined to focus his efforts on that necessity on the other side of the new year. He would like to see a formal home base for NewArts before the company reaches its tenth anniversary in early 2023.NewArts began life rehearsing and performing at Newtown High School. It did five shows there, according to NewArts Director Michael Unger. The company then worked with Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel for two years, and Masuk High School in Monroe for two years, presenting eight additional productions between the two locations. “Masuk High School was a fabulous host, as was Walnut Hill,” Loucks said. Newtown Congregational Church also served as rehearsal space for previous productions. This year NewArts has returned to Newtown for rehearsals and production. Although auditions for A Christmas Carol were done at nearby C.H. Booth Library, everything else is taking place under one roof. Rehearsals are in Edmond Town Hall’s gymnasium, in the theater on the building’s main floor, and even the Alexandria Room on the third floor.“To be working within the walls of where we’ll be performing is what I want to become routine,” Loucks said.Loucks admits finding a permanent space for all of that is a challenge. He is not dissuaded, however.“The building/space challenge,” he said, “and how to have everything all under one roof? That’s what my dream is: to find the one place where we can have classes, and rehearsals, and performances, and offices.”That’s the future, however. Meanwhile, showtime approaches.“We’re loading sets and tech this week,” Loucks said Monday morning. “Costumes are in house now. It’s time to make those two worlds collide.”Timothy Huber is playing Scrooge, taking over the role played in a few previous productions by Graeme Malcolm. When the Equity actor was unable to return as Ebenezer Scrooge this year, Huber — who played Bob Cratchit in the most recent NewArts production in Bethel — stepped right up, said Loucks.Among others, the adult cast also includes James Wolff as Bob Cratchit and Rebecca Spalvieri as Lily and Belle. Loucks will also be on the stage, portraying Nephew Fred.“My whole family is involved,” he said with a laugh. “My wife Erin is the assistant choreographer, our daughter is making her stage debut, and our son is on the stage crew.“A few families are all participating,” he added. “There are a lot of returning families, in fact, and a lot of new faces, which I think is important for NewArts.”Loucks is pleased to note the show also features a diverse cast.The adult cast members will perform all eight shows. The younger cast members are performing four shows each, in either the Holly or Mistletoe cast.Choreographer Jennifer Paulson-Lee is the lead choreographer, restaging from original choreography by Rob Ashford.The message in the David Thompson adaptation, said Loucks, “may take some time to get out, but there’s light in every scene. It still allows the story to move.”While the story remains true to the original Charles Dickens novella published 177 years ago, Thompson’s adaptation helps audiences understand a little more about the idiosyncrasies behind Ebenezer Scrooge. As NewArts Director Michael Unger recently told The Newtown Bee, Scrooge is not “just a random, mean villain who is awful because he’s awful. It’s because of his childhood and how society placed him in a situation where he developed so much fear of poverty, even once he became rich.”NewArts audiences will, Unger said, “feel for that character, even though he’s an anti-hero for a while.”Performance NotesSeating for A Christmas Carol is general admission. The theater will be contained to about 80% capacity, Loucks said, and all attendees will be required to wear facemasks.Rehearsals have been done with performers in masks, although all have been vaccinated and will not be wearing masks during performances.“We want our audiences to feel safe,” he said. Laughing, he added, “If people can wear masks for Broadway, they can wear them for NewArts.”The lobby of Edmond Town Hall will host a pop-up Swag Shoppe and info booth both weekends. There will also be silent auctions, beer and wine available for purchase, and final ticket purchases, although Loucks notes that the latter can be done very easily before stepping into 45 Main Street.“Our posters have a QR code that can be scanned, and it will take you right to our Ticketleap page,” he said. “Our website also has a button for ticket sales.“Once you get to the ticket sales page, each performance listing includes a note for which cast will be performing each show,” he added.“Our goal is to make this a yearly event that the town looks forward to,” he said. “NewArts and the holidays on Main Street. That would be a wonderful goal.”The 2021 NewArts production of A Christmas Carol is scheduled to open at Edmond Town Hall, 45 Main Street, with 2 pm matinees and 7 pm evening performances on Saturday and Sunday, December 11-12. The production will then continue Friday, December 17, at 7 pm; Saturday, December 18, at 2 and 7 pm; and Sunday, December 19, at 2 pm.Tickets for all performances are $20 for balcony seating, $28 for orchestra/main floor seats. Seating is general admission. Visit newarts.org for additional information and ticket purchases.=====Associate Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.NewArts "A Christmas Carol" final preview Shannon Hicks
Story This Year’s NewArts ‘Christmas Carol’May Be The First Of Many On Main StreetNewArts "A Christmas Carol" final previewFeatured Slider, FeaturesNone
Get Ready, Crafters: Second Annual Mason Jar Holiday Decorating Contest Underway
The second annual Newtown Parks and Recreation Mason Jar Holiday Decorating Contest is running through December 15.The second annual Newtown Parks and Recreation Mason Jar Holiday Decorating Contest is running through December 15.All ages are invited to participate in creating a holiday-themed mason jar. There is a $5 fee to enter.The 2021-22 Winter Brochure detailed, “Purchase or recycle a mason jar and decorate it with your favorite holiday theme — get creative! Your jar can be decorated inside or out.”Assistant Director of Recreation Rose Ann Reggiano shared, “During COVID I had to come up with a holiday idea, for we did not have any holiday events last year. I thought it would be fun for family and/or friends to get creative and create a holiday themed mason jar [like a snow globe], so why not try it again this year.”All mason jars must be dropped off at Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson Street, by December 15. They will remain there on display for judging.The winner of the contest will be announced on December 21 and receive a gift basket.To sign up for the Mason Jar Holiday Decorating Contest (Activity Code: 214102 A), visit newtown-ct.gov/parks-recreation or call 203-270-4340 for more information.Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.Mason Jar Holiday Decorating Contest Alissa Silber
Story Get Ready, Crafters: Second Annual Mason Jar Holiday Decorating Contest UnderwayMason Jar Holiday Decorating ContestFeatured Slider, FeaturesNone
Local Tree Lighting Events Begin TonightThree tree lightings will brighten local skies this holiday season. Three tree lightings will brighten local skies this holiday season. Two are planned for this weekend, while the third will close the weekend of December 10-12.The 37th Annual Ram Pasture Tree Lighting is planned for Friday, December 3, at the trees near the southern end of Ram Pasture, on Elm Drive at Hawley Lane.Entertainment will begin at 6:30 pm, and Santa Claus will light the trees at 7. Children are invited to drop letters for Santa in a box that will be set up for that use.Luminaria will line Ram Pasture, and many of the streets and roads leading to the historic property.The 2021 Sandy Hook Center Tree Lighting Celebration will run from 4 to 6:30 pm December 4. Santa will arrive at 5 and visit with children for the next hour.The event is centered around the trees at 2 Washington Avenue and 2 Riverside Road, and the businesses within the area of Church Hill Road, Washington Avenue, Riverside Road, and Glen Road.Guests are invited to donate nonperishable items for FAITH Food Pantry. Donors will be entered into a drawing to then light the tree that evening.Karaoke and caroling will also be part of the celebration. Visit sandyhookvillage.com for updates in the event of inclement weather.Hawleyville Volunteer Fire Company took possession last month of a new fir tree, which will be center stage for the 11th Annual Hawleyville Tree Lighting next weekend, on Sunday, December 12.For the first time, the event will be held at and hosted by the volunteer fire company at its station, 34 Hawleyville Road.The tree lighting event will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Master of Ceremonies John Voket will preside over the festivities, which will include a performance by students from Dance Etc, songs of the season, free cheese pizzas from Papa Al’s, hot chocolate and cookies from Hawleyville Post Office, sparkling cider from Hawleyville Wine & Liquor, fortune cookies from New Main Moon Chinese restaurant, and Mrs Ball’s homemade gingerbread fire truck cookies.Hawleyville’s fire trucks will be on display, and there are rumors that a certain resident of the North Pole will be visiting to listen to the wishes of area children.There is no rain date for the event, but if the weather is questionable, Hawleyville Fire Company’s Facebook page can be checked for cancellation decisions.three tree lightings reminder Story Tree Lightings Begin December 3three tree lightings reminderFeatured Slider, FeaturesNone
Freshman Football Team Finds Success In Return To Field The first-year high school football players had a solid season.After a one-year hiatus, freshman football returned to Newtown High School this fall. This year’s team, comprising new and returning players from Newtown Youth Football, was led by captains Marco D’Amico, James Hartigan, and Ayden Paulos. Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator Joe Gantert, Offensive Coordinator Declan Sullivan, and Offensive Assistant Lou Santoli continued Newtown football’s tradition of excellence by guiding the team to a winning record of 6-4.There were 21 players on the freshman team, and most played multiple positions, and on offense and defense. The linemen included D’Amico, Sam Kennel, Sal LoGrosso, Caleb St. Louis, A.J. Penna, Cole Sgagliardich, and Hunter Rowland. The running backs were Josh Miller, Drew Gagnon, and John Sclafani. Making up the receiving corps were Jayden Taylor, Hartigan, Drew Bradley, Colin Gevry, and Andrew Colins. Linebackers Joey Terry, Wes Keayes, along with pass defenders Will McManus, Paulos, and Matt Pontore made up the defense. Ryan Schoffstall took every snap at quarterback.In addition to playing on the freshman team, some players were asked to attend JV games to provide depth for a team that had suffered some injuries. Bradley, D’Amico, Hartigan, Kennel, McManus, Paulos, Schoffstall, Taylor, and Terry all saw playing time with the JV team. Over a span of five games, these players answered the call, filling in wherever needed. In a game against Weston, in which Newtown was comfortably ahead, several of these players got to enjoy significant playing time with Taylor scoring on a touchdown catch.The entire freshman team prepared for the season by working out with JV and varsity teams during the summer. After a summer of workouts and practices, the season started on September 9 with an opening day 34-8 victory at Brookfield. Newtown did not give up a score in the next three games, leading to shutout victories over New Milford, Darien, and Ridgefield, a four-week stretch in which Newtown outscored its opponents 119-8. During that period, Newtown scored 15 passing touchdowns with 12 coming from quarterback Schoffstall to receivers Taylor, Bradley, McManus, Miller, and Hartigan, and three touchdowns from trick play passes from Hartigan to Taylor.Throughout the season, Newtown attacked opponents’ offenses with some tenacious defense. Leading tacklers Kennel, Terry, Hartigan, and McManus, along with leading pass defenders Paulos, McManus, and Taylor, kept rushers and receivers in check. Sack leaders Kennel, Terry, Bradley, St. Louis, and LoGrosso made quarterbacks uncomfortable leading to nine interceptions by a combination of Paulos, Taylor, and Bradley, including a 43-yard pick-six by Taylor. Even when facing a clear size disadvantage, Newtown’s swarming defense always kept the team in the game.The team’s shining moment came in the fifth game of the season. Hosting a large and deep West Haven team, Newtown found itself in a tough battle. After a 20-yard touchdown pass from Schoffstall to Hartigan and an extra point from a McManus kick, Newtown gave up two touchdowns and found itself down 14-7 in the fourth quarter with time running out. Getting right to work, Newtown marched into West Haven territory with a reception by Taylor and a first-down rush by Miller. On the next play, Schoffstall scrambled to his right and found an open Taylor who raced to the end zone for a 40-yard touchdown play. Down by one point, Newtown opted for a go-ahead two-point conversion. On the play, Schoffstall rolled to his right and patiently waited for Hartigan to get open and hit him with a pass in the corner of the end zone to complete the conversion and put Newtown ahead by one point. West Haven threatened on its next possession, but after key tackles by Miller, St. Louis, McManus, and Gevry, D’Amico hit the quarterback as he threw forcing a fourth-down incompletion and sealing the 15-14 victory.Newtown then struggled through a stretch of games against strong competition. Though the team played well, played hard, and was competitive in every game, the Nighthawks lost their next four games, against Cheshire, Shelton, New Fairfield, and Bunnell. The season ended on a high note, though, with the final game on November 20 in which the freshman team combined with sophomore JV players to defeat Masuk by a score of 20-0. During the course of the season, Newtown outgained its opponents by an average of 248 to 171 yards per game and outscored them by an average of 20-14. With each game, the team members gained valuable experience that they will bring with them into next year along with the expectation for continued success.Freshman Football Story Freshman Football Team Finds Success In Return To FieldFreshman FootballFeatured Slider, SportsNone
Good Sports: NHS Athletics Recognized With CIAC Award Athletic Department honored for its sportsmanship.Everything from the exuberance of the fan section in the stands and the words of public address announcer Jason “J” Edwards emanating from the Hawks Nest down to the playing surface where athletes and coaches interact with their opponents gets noticed. Representatives of Newtown High School’s athletic department were recognized for being collective good sports, as the department, under the leadership of Athletic Director Matt Memoli, earned the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference’s (CIAC) 2021 Fred Balsamo Sportsmanship Award.The prestigious award is given to one school per year that demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship and provides an enjoyable experience for students in athletics. The award will be officially announced at the December 7 CIAC Sportsmanship Conference.The CIAC commended the NHS athletic department in a statement: “We are proud to recognize you, your students, and your athletic program for continuing to seek ways of promoting the growth of your students and supporting the ideals of good sportsmanship. You are to be commended for your dedication to sportsmanship and for providing your students with the most enjoyable possible experience in athletics.”“It’s a real honor to be recognized by the state,” said Becky Osborne, coach of NHS girls’ swimming and boys’ winter indoor and spring outdoor track and field. “Matt really has set the tone for the whole athletic department and holds his coaches to a certain level.”Memoli credited the coaches and athletes and showed his appreciation to them in a note: “I want to take a minute to say thank you to each and every one of you. Your high expectations, leadership, and willingness to go above and beyond is the reason we won this award. In a time where coaching high school sports is as challenging as ever, we should all be proud of what we have here in Newtown.”The NHS athletic director said the high level of sportsmanship is on and off the playing field.“We have a really clean student section. We have really positive, enthusiastic kids,” Memoli said. “You want these kids to have the best experience possible.”The high level of sportsmanship is also outside of the school as teams have been involved with community service activities.“I think it’s a team effort. It’s all about collaboration,” Memoli said.During game play, competition can be intense but players often show concern for opponents who have fallen or gotten the worst of a collision and help each other up. After the games opponents shake hands.The approach of coaches sets the tone, Memoli added. “How you handle yourself as a coach trickles down to the the players.”“I’m so proud to be part of the NHS athletic family. The athletes, coaches, and our AD Matt Memoli does such a great job,” said Ian Thoesen, coach of Newtown High’s baseball team.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.Sportsmanship Award At NHS Andy Hutchison
Story Good Sports: NHS Athletics Recognized With CIAC AwardWrestling Car Wash FundraiserFeatured Slider, SportsNone
Junior Varsity Football Team Earns Victories In Second Half Of Season The NHS JV football team had success this fall.Newtown High School JV football game results from the second half of the season:Newtown 36 Cheshire 6: After a two-week hiatus the 2-2 JV Newtown Nighthawks traveled to Cheshire to take on the Rams. The Hawks showed no wear from the time off as they jumped out to a quick lead on the third play from scrimmage. Quarterback Jayden Cordova hooked up with Gio Vazquez for a 60-yard catch and run touchdown. Kicker Dominic Simpri added the extra point and Newtown was up 7-0 less than two minutes into the game. The defense also showed no sign of rust as it stopped the Rams on their opening drive. The Hawks regained possession on a blocked punt as Sean Reilly and Jackson Chacon met in the Cheshire backfield to get a piece of the ball that was quickly scooped up by Brady Macey to give Newtown great field position. Three plays later, Cordova connected with Andrew Grenier for a 22-yard catch and run TD. Simpri’s extra point made it 14-0 a mere five minutes into the game. The Hawk defense continued to frustrate the Rams. A Chacon sack forced Cheshire into an ill-advised pass that was picked off by Macey. Two plays later, Cordova connected with Griffin Clemen to setup a 23-yard TD run by Bryan Reyes. Newtown was up 20-0 just seconds into the second quarter. The only blemish on the day for the Hawks was a kick return TD for Cheshire in the second quarter. Newtown denied the two-point attempt on great pass defense from Ryan Zaniewski. Cheshire made one more attempt before the half but pressure from the Newtown defense line of Alamin Islam, Jason Benson, and Cole Wanzer helped force another interception by Grenier to close out the first half. The offensive line led by Luke Phelps, Lewis Roth, Declan Regan, Daniel DeOliviera, Islam, and Wanzer provided protection all game. Cordova connected with Reyes to close out the third quarter. Simpri’s kick made it 27-6 with one quarter remaining. The final score of the game was sparked after Chacon fielded a short, errant punt deep in Ram territory. Two plays later a 25-yard pass and run from Cordova to Vazquez capped the scoring.Shelton 22, Newtown 19: The 3-2 JV Nighthawks returned to Blue & Gold Stadium after more than a month away to take on the Shelton Gaels. The cold, wet conditions proved to be a challenge for both sides throughout the game. A bright spot for the Hawks was the kick return game of Bryan Reyes. He consistently put Newtown in good starting position. Despite the weather, Newtown took to the air on their first offensive possession. Quarterback Jayden Cordova connected with Andrew Grenier on a 20-yard pass and then hit Gio Vazquez on a 35 yard TD pass, putting the Hawks up 6-0 a few minutes into the game. Wet ball issues plagued both sides and Newtown took advantage early on. A mishandled punt was forced by the rush of Evan Nikolis and Cole Wanzer. But yards were hard to come by all day and Newtown gave the ball back to Shelton on downs. Brady Macey and Andrew Grenier provided solid pass defense for the Hawks. Shelton went up 7-6. Newtown had an opportunity to make some noise after Jackson Chacon had a strip sack that was recovered by Sean Reilly deep in Gael territory. However, the Hawks were not able to capitalize. Shelton cashed in and scored early in the second quarter to increase the lead to 13-6. Pinned down deep in their own end, the Hawks turned the ball over again. Shelton took over on the Newtown one-yard line and quickly converted to go up 20-6. Undeterred, Newtown returned to the running game. The next drive featured strong runs by Vazquez and Cordova. On a third and long Cordova connected with Grenier for a first down that setup a five-yard TD run by Vazquez. Dominic Simpri’s extra point made it 20-13 midway through the second quarter. The Newtown defense remained strong; Kevin Murray and Nikolis all provided pressure while Wanzer recorded a sack. Shelton blocked a Newtown punt, but the Hawks’ defense held fast. Brady Macey had a TD-saving play at the goal line, and Reyes forced a fumble to get the ball back for Newtown. The Gaels then returned the favor by scoring a safety in the closing minute of the half to go up 22-13. Reyes then intercepted a Shelton pass to stop the final drive of the half.In the second half, a clutch fourth down pass from Cordova to Grenier resulted in a 55-yard touchdown to make the score 22-19 in favor of the Geals. The stout Newtown defense did not allow Shelton to score for the rest of the game. Richie Wilford, Luke Phelps, Murray, and Wander were strong on the defensive line all game with great support from Joey Corbo, Reilly, and Chacon. Newtown squandered a great opportunity after Macey scooped up a botched Shelton kick return. The Hawks drove to the Shelton one yard line, but a turnover gave the ball back as the third quarter expired. Another sack by Wanzer helped to force a punt by Shelton and Newtown took over on the Shelton side of the field. However, the Hawks could not capitalize on their good field position and gave the ball back on downs. The Gaels went to the ground game to bleed clock in the fourth quarter and were able to convert on a crucial fourth and long to extend their drive. The defense held strong and gave the Hawks one last chance in the closing minutes of the game. Shelton penalties and critical catch by Corbo kept the drive alive for Newtown. Ultimately, the drive came up short in the closing minute.Newtown 35, Weston 0: The 3-3 JV Nighthawks returned to Blue & Gold Stadium to take on the Trojans from Weston. A crisp sunny fall day was the backdrop as the Hawks received the opening kickoff. It took a little while for Newtown to warm up as they traded possessions with Weston on the opening drives. The Hawks started their next drive very run-heavy with a combined 42 yards of rushing from Gio Vasquez. The drive was capped by a 30-yard touchdown pass from Jayden Cordova to Andrew Grenier. Emad Azba added the extra point and Newtown was up 7-0 early in the first quarter. The Nighthawk defense remained stout with dominating line play from Declan Regan, Richie Wilford, and Kevin Murray. Evan Nikolas had a key pass defense to give Newtown the ball. Newtown turned the ball over deep in its own end, but the defense continued to dominate and got the ball back to the offense four plays later. The Nighthawks continued to run the ball with strong runs from Griffin Clemen as well as Vasquez who fought hard for yards all day, shedding tackles and at times carrying half the Weston defense with him as he ran. Jackson Chacon had a tipped pass and Cole Wanzer forced a fumble on a sack requiring Weston to punt yet again. Chicon and Grenier forced a fumble on a fourth and short stopping the Weston drive in the second quarter. Three plays later, Cordova connected with Clemen on a 53-yard touchdown pass and Azba’s extra point made it 14-0. With minutes remaining in the second quarter the Newtown defense again took the ball back on an interception by Kaelen Schmitt. Taking advantage of the Weston miscue, the next play was a 53-yard pass from Cordova to Brady Macey. As time expired, Cordova again connected with Macey for a 15-yard touchdown and the extra point from Azba made it 21-0 at the end of the half. The Nighthawks got contributions from some freshmen players in the second half. Jayden Taylor was featured on the first offensive possession by Newtown; he ran the ball and caught a 26-yard pass from Cordova to set up two-yard TD run by Vasquez. Azba’s extra point put Newtown up 28-0 in the opening minutes of the third quarter. The Trojans could do little against the Newtown defense. Sean Riley and Noah Smith recorded a sack as Weston continued to have trouble moving the ball against the Nighthawks. Along with Taylor, other freshman that contributed to the win were Ayden Paulos, James Hartigan, Marco D’Amico, Joey Terry, and Will McManus. The final score was tallied on a 14-yard touchdown pass from Cordova to Taylor in the fourth quarter. Azba’s fifth kick made him a perfect five for five extra on points.New Fairfield 22, Newtown 12: The 4-3 JV Newtown Nighthawks visited the New Fairfield Rebels in what would turn out to be their final official game of the season. The Hawks took the opening possession for an early score. The drive featured multiple long runs by Gio Vazquez and was capped by a 21-yard touchdown pass from Jayden Cordova to Griffin Clemen. The drive was made possible by strong offensive line play from Declan Regan, Richie Wilford, Kevon Murray, Lewis Roth, and Luke Phelps. The Rebels answered right back with a quick TD on their first possession. They added the two-point play and took the lead 8-6 just four minutes into the game. After the teams traded possessions, the Hawk defense stepped up with a big fourth down stand deep in their own territory in the second quarter. Cole Wanzer’s sack got the ball back for the Hawks. Newtown took little time to score. Cordova connected with Andrew Grenier on a 75-yard catch and run for a TD. Jackson Chacon had a big play on special teams forcing a fumble on the kickoff and putting the Rebels on their heels deep in their one end. The defensive line of Wilford, Phelps, Murray, and Wanzer held New Fairfield and the Hawks got the ball back with great field position. Newtown could not capitalize and turned the ball over late in the second quarter. The Hawk defense answered the call with a Brady Macey interception to stop the Rebel offense with less than a minute remaining in the half. In the third quarter the Newtown defense held strong, but New Fairfield scored twice in the fourth quarter.With the final JV game being cancelled this past weekend, the Nighthawk JV sophomores combined with the freshmen to take on Masuk of Monroe in a “froshmore” game. Newtown beat the Masuk Panthers 20-0. Sophomore Andrew Grenier had rushing and receiving TDs, and sophomore Jackson Chacon recovered a fumble in the end zone for a score. Freshman Sam Kennel also had a fumble recovery for Newtown.JV Football Recap Story Junior Varsity Football Team Earns Victories In Second Half Of SeasonJV Football RecapFeatured Slider, SportsNone
Scoreboard-Operating Students Help With Excitement Of Games NHS students add to atmosphere at Blue & Gold Stadium.The fall sports season was chock-full of thrilling highlights at Newtown High School’s Blue & Gold Stadium, and a new LED video scoreboard made the atmosphere all the more exciting for the Nighthawks and their fans.Scoreboards are helpful for all in attendance to be aware of the score and time remaining. Time-outs are also tracked, and with football, the down, yards to go, and other pertinent information is on display. Newtown added some bells and whistles this year.With students assisting Newtown High School Athletic Director Matt Memoli and other NHS staff in operating cameras and computer equipment connected to the video board, fans — along with the team members themselves — got to see the games live on the screen. Player profiles created by their peers were posted on the board and graphics put together by students added to the fun.“I’m pumped. I’m really excited. I think it’s just built-up excitement around athletics,” Memoli said from the Hawks Nest press box as students pushed the buttons to make magic happen on the board during a game this fall.“It’s the perfect compliment to the new turf field that will enhance the experience for the athletes and it just keeps the excitement in athletics,” said Ryan Eberts, an NHS athletics department utility team member who helps out on game days in a variety of areas, including backup public address announcing to Jason “J” Edwards, in addition to with the scoreboard.Aashni Shetty and Andrew Michlovitz were hard at work during many games, putting their after- school training to the forefront.“Making graphics, the creative part of it, I really enjoy,” Michlovitz said.“It’s fun being involved with sports and watching all of the games. And I like doing the graphics,” added Shetty, who was among a group of NHS students to participate throughout the soccer, field hockey, and football campaigns.Madison Benson, Amy Genovese, Lillian Verdi, Catherine Murray, Gabby Jimenez, and Amelia Daly are other students who worked on the scoreboard this past fall.With football season winding down and winter sports held indoors, the scoreboard will wait to be lit up again in the spring when lacrosse takes center stage at Blue & Gold Stadium.Students used gipper.com to work from templates to make custom graphics, and Memoli said what was great about the system is that multiple users were able to be online at once creating images for game day use. The scoreboard also served the cheerleaders, dance team, band, and color guard during performances, and Memoli envisions it going to good use for graduations and outside-of-school functions in the future.The equipment was made possible by Power Ad Company. Sponsors who helped get this scoreboard paid for and were honored at a game this fall include Pat Caruso of Associated Refuse Haulers; Baum Braces; John Marcucilli of Bouvier Insurance; Tyler, Dave, and Tracy Tarantino of Cover Two Sports Cafe; Jen Gilbertie and family of Ingersoll Auto of Danbury; Dr Deidre Condon and Dr Garrett Golisano of Newtown Family Dentistry; Pam Czapor and the OrthoConnecticut team; the staff team at PhysicianOne Urgent Care; Thomas Miskelly and family of Quality Dry Basements; Rob Rossomando of Rob Rozz Well and Pump Service; and Eric Ventura and family.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.Scoreboard At Blue & Gold Andy Hutchison
Story Scoreboard-Operating Students Help With Excitement Of Games Behind The Scenes At Blue & Gold StadiumScoreboard At Blue & GoldFeatured Slider, Features, SportsNone
Former Hawk/UNH Standout Helped Coach Field Hockey Team To Championship Natalie Shaker has been a part of the last two NHS titles.Natalie Shaker picked up with Newtown High School’s field hockey program in a different role, yet right where she left off upon graduating in 2017. Shaker was a member of the team that upset three rivals as the No. 8 seed en route to the program’s last South-West Conference championship (fall of 2016) ... until this year’s squad won it all not as an underdog, but the top seed.Shaker, the starting goaltender in the 2016 lineup, was in the 2021 team championship photo lineup as an assistant coach.The former Nighthawk netminder was brought on board by Head Coach Ellen Goyda to help work with the goalies, including varsity starter Cailyn Sullivan and backup Kaelin Rising during a run to the championship that featured a half-dozen regular-season shutouts as Newtown went unbeaten against conference foes.“I wanted Natalie to come in and really help our goaltenders because they’re such an important part of our success,” said Goyda, adding that Shaker joined forces with volunteer Coach Mary Hess, who concentrates on goalies, to get the most of out Newtown’s last wall of defense in front of the cage.“It’s a lot of fun,” said Shaker, who served as Newtown’s head junior varsity coach as well as assisting with the varsity squad, and takes pride in honing the up and coming players for what she hopes will be strong careers on the varsity team.“I want to have them be prepared to be the best they can to go win those titles when they reach that level,” Shaker said of her JV coaching role.“It’s nice giving back. It’s a way to keep field hockey in my life,” said Shaker, who had a strong playing career after high school at the University of New Haven.Since that 2016 celebration, which was backed by a trio of 1-0 tournament victories thanks in large part to Shaker’s goaltending, she built up quite a field hockey résumé at UNH. Shaker was recruited as the first goalie for the inaugural season of Division II field hockey at UNH.“Knowing I was helping create the program was really rewarding,” Shaker said. “It was definitely a lot of fun. We were able to compete with really good teams.”Shaker said the step up from high school to collegiate field hockey was significant, describing each team as being loaded with those one or two top players from every high school team she remembers facing. Despite the high level of competition, Shaker more than held her own at UNH.She was Team MVP during the program’s first two years, 2017 and 2018, took home a UNH Athlete of the Week Award in 2017, and was the only goalie on the team freshman and junior year, playing all but one half of one game for all three years (her senior season was canceled due to the coronavirus). Shaker led All Division II goalies in 2017 with 18.23 saves per game. The Northeast 10 All Conference Third Team Selection in 2019, Shaker was picked for the National Field Hockey Coaches Association 2020 All-Senior Team.Off the field, Shaker served as UNH Student Athlete Advisory Committee President in 2019 and 2020, and was Northeast 10 Co-Vice Chair of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee in 2019. Shaker was the only student-athlete chosen to be on the UNH new Athletic Director Search Committee in 2018.The 2017 Newtown High grad earned her BA in Forensic Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. Shaker is working as a long-term substitute health teacher at Newtown High School.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.Field Hockey Standout, Coach Natalie Shaker Story Former Hawk/UNH Standout Helped Coach Field Hockey Team To ChampionshipField Hockey Standout, Coach Natalie ShakerFeatured Slider, SportsNone
C.H. Booth Library (Little Book Store area, near main circulation desk), 25 Main Street
Gift-quality books, jigsaw puzzles, games, stocking stuffers and more, being offered to January 8 during library hours, presented by and benefit for Friends of the C.H. Booth Library; 203-426-4533, boothbooksale@yahoo.com.
Edmond Town Hall (Alexandria Room), 45 Main Street
$11 ($9 club members)
Local American Contract Bridge League-affiliated club plays Open Pairs Monday-Thursday afternoons, also Wednesday evenings, newcomers welcome; 203-733-8525, newtownbridge.org.
Thank you Glenn Nanavaty and our Salvation Army Newtown Unit team, and all the people who volunteer their time and energy to make a difference in the lives of others. You are awesome
There is a shortage of shells for hermit crabs due to their population boom. In Thailand there are so many new hermit crabs that they have asked for donations of shells (or money). This population explosion is due to the lack of tourism because of COVID.
Grace you are missed always but especially today, Thanksgiving. We all just commented on how much we miss you and your wonderful fruitcakes. I know you are resting in peace so I won’t stay on. Love Bonnie & Attila, Darlene & Chris, and Ronnie & Freddie. Love to you always and forever. ❤️ ☮️ 😊
