Date: Fri 20-Nov-1998

Publication: Bee

Author: DOTTIE

Quick Words:

Snaphot-Roseanne-Loring

Full Text:

SNAPSHOT: ROSEANNE LORING

Occupation: I am the program coordinator for Newtown Youth Services.

Residence: I have lived in Newtown since 1977.

Biggest Change In Town: Because of my involvement in the schools, I would have

to say school enrollment. I remember when they thought of closing Hawley

School.

Family: Jim, my husband of 27 years, is director of employee benefits at a

corporation in Stamford. We have two sons. Gribbin Christopher, 22, will

graduate from the University of Rhode Island in December with a degree in

ocean engineering. Ryan, 19, is a freshman at Springfield College studying to

be a physical education teacher and coach.

Pets: My shadow, a 14-year-old cocker spaniel named Taffy.

Hobbies: I have been a cantor at St Rose for many years. I also sing for

weddings and funerals. Doing weddings is really fun. Whenever they need

someone, I also work with children for special masses, liturgies and first

Eucharist programs. I just love it. There's nothing like working with kids.

When I have time, I also like to make arrangements with fresh or silk flowers.

We go out to dinner and a movie or go out with friends. We also like to rent

videos.

Favorite Author: I like John Grissom.

Organizations: I just finished 17 years of involvement with the PTA in several

leadership roles. My job allows me to go back into the schools, so it's not a

total withdrawal for me. Through the years, I've been involved with the Soccer

Club, Boy Scouts and Newtown Prevention Council.

Most Vivid Memory of Newtown: My most vivid memory is when we had the

fireworks at Dickinson Park. Seeing the reflection of the fireworks in the

pool and remembering the look in my children's eyes. Also, how the town has

rallied to causes on several occasions. It's heartwarming to see how people

who don't know someone will try to help. Newtown has a big heart, and it

shares its heart with people who need help.

Philosophy: Always maintain a sense of humor; always find something to laugh

at.