The Newtown Senior Center hosted its first “Coffee & Conversation” session with First Selectman Dan Rosenthal on August 16, from 9 to 10 am.

The new series will take place every third Friday of the month and give seniors the opportunity to speak with Mr Rosenthal in a laid-back setting where they can sip coffee and nosh on breakfast delights.

At the first gathering, Mr Rosenthal thanked those in attendance, including Newtown Selectman Maureen Crick Owen, Commission on Aging Chair Anna Wiedemann, Director of Human Services Natalie Jackson, and Senior Center Assistant Judy Thomas.

Seniors engaged with the first selectman about a variety of topics during their discussion, covering everything from the growing membership numbers of the Newtown Community Center to emergency resources for the new building.

One woman in the audience asked if the town has considered hosting a Newtown Forum where they could draw in residents from neighboring towns about subjects that seniors care about, like national affairs.

“We’re always trying to think about programming… for more engagement and participation,” Mr Rosenthal said of the many possibilities.

A gentleman in the crowd added that seniors can reach out to the local newspaper to let them know about matters they are interested in the publication covering.

Those with story suggestions for The Newtown Bee can e-mail editor@thebee.com or call 203-426-3141 and ask to speak to Editor Nancy Crevier.

The next “Coffee & Conversation” program is scheduled to take place at the Newtown Senior Center, 8 Simpson Street, on the morning of September 20.

For more information about upcoming events at the Newtown Senior Center, visit newtown-ct.gov/senior-center.