There is a bright little birch tree growing in the Ram Pasture, planted 10 years ago by the employees of The Bee Publishing Company as a tribute to the life of Paul S. Smith. Paul’s tenure as editor and publisher of The Newtown Bee spanned the momentous middle years of the 20th Century, from the end of the Great Depression, through World War II, and into the 60s and early 70s, a time of great social change. The birch tree was our attempt to fill the hole left in our lives by his death in 1990. To this day, it serves to remind us of a truth embodied in the life and work of Paul Smith: that with proper care, attention, and lots of light a community can grow straight and strong. In our newspaper work, we continue to endeavor to bring all three to Newtown.

We have always thought of Paul Smith as a hometown hero, but we are happy to report that his talents as a community leader and newspaper man have now been formally recognized a little farther afield. Last weekend, the New England Press Association formally inducted Paul S. Smith into its newly created Hall of Fame.  He was one of 30 men and women from throughout New England chosen as the first to be so honored.

We all know that the memory of those important to us will always overspread any words or sentiments we may come up with after they are gone. No tree, no posthumous honor, no sincere editorializing will ever adequately convey the true qualities of those who have inspired us on our respective paths. But for those who did not know the great ones who have gone before, there is a need for tributes and halls of fame. As the little birch tree in the Ram Pasture instructs us every spring: each new twig and bud at the farthest reach of the newest branch exists only because of the nourishment taken from the deepest roots. By honoring those who go before, we honor ourselves.