To the Editor:

State Senator Tony Hwang’s letter to The Newtown Bee of 4-9-21 [“Sen Hwang Supports The Sandy Hook Permanent Memorial”] expressed well the support earned and the commission’s volunteered time and effort spent on developing the current design for the Sandy Hook Permanent Memorial. No disagreement with what was written and many feel positive about the concept, rightfully so.

But maybe there could be a more practical, constructive alternative; maybe some questions with the grande scope of its design and tax paying cost of $3.7 million and its lifelong expenses for upkeep, when another idea could contribute to a “better spent” price tag producing a revenue and a contribution to the community as a whole.

Suggestion: consider an ice rink. Seasonal ice skating in all its variations for all ages, for the most; spectators welcomed. A hard floor surface in the off-season to provide for exhibits, performances, competitions; (art, antiques, the trades, flea markets, bocci tournaments, Irish dance and square, old-fashion roller skating, the list goes on). Permanent memorials exist: a $48 million school and a $15 million community center, both much appreciated and worthy.

Beautiful, natural, serene environments for individual, quiet reflection exist all around us here in Newtown, thanks to the Newtown Forest Association, the town’s multiple parks, waterfronts, and fields. Choose your time of day or night, your backyard, wherever. Treasure the gem of Fairfield Hills, its open spaces especially, freedom for the heart and soul to get away.

Vote, Tuesday, April 27.

Elizabeth Lincoln

34 Echo Valley Road, Newtown