NEWTOWN — Brookfield High School students have been hard at work utilizing a new etching machine to support neighboring Newtown’s upcoming fundraiser, June 8. Over 180 glasses have been specially etched with the Newtown Youth Football & Cheer 50th Anniversary logo and will be used at this weekend’s Beer & Wine Tasting Event.

The 4th Annual Beer, Wine & Spirits Tasting Event aims to raise $12,000 for the youth program which will be used for athlete uniforms, field upkeep, equipment, scholarships for those who are unable to afford participation fees and safety training for coaches. The organization's planning committee hoped to find a vendor which would help keep costs down to ensure the profits from the event went toward the goal.

The idea for the partnership came after Stacia Nicholson, a business/marketing teacher at Brookfield High School, suggested to a planning committee member that Newtown utilize the new machine the school acquired in 2018 to create their artwork. Brookfield purchased the etching machine last year as a way to further enhance students’ technical skills. Throughout the year, students design, apply, and manage a “business” through their own Etsy shop. Proceeds from product sales go back into the program to further education of technology and business.

“This was a wonderful opportunity for neighboring towns to support one another for a good cause,” said Ms Nicholson. “Our students get an opportunity to develop their skills and work together with an affiliate program.” 

The glasses featuring NYF&C’s 50th Anniversary logo will be used to distribute tastings from more than five distilleries and breweries in Connecticut during the annual event, which is set to draw nearly 200 attendees on Saturday, June 8. New England Brewing Co, Back East Brewing, Nod Hill Brewery, Woodbury Brewing Co, Reverie Brewing Co, Litchfield Distillery, and Nick’s Chilled & Distilled are set to serve local favorites.

The event will be held at The Dana-Holcombe House, 29 Main Street,  from 6 to 10 pm, Saturday, June 8. To purchase tickets prior to the event, visit newtownyouthfootball.org. A limited number of tickets will also be available for purchase at the door.