'Unity & Diversity' Programs Preview

By SHANNON HICKS

Published: Aug 24, 2012 12:00 am

âUnity & Diversityâ Programs Preview

Unity and Diversity, a cable television program that can be seen by residents of 17 towns in the greater Newtown area is an educational experience in learning about oneâs neighbors, especially through a clearer understanding of their religious heritage, spiritual values, and human culture.

The program features interviews with pastors, rabbis, imams, and other spiritual leaders of a variety of local faith communities. Unity and Diversity can be viewed at noon on Mondays, and at 5:30 pm on Wednesdays, throughout the 14 towns of the Charter Communications viewing area.

The program scheduled for August 27 and 29 will feature an interview with Dr Kendall Pallodino, current pastoral care director, St Raphael Hospital, New Haven.

Upcoming guests and/or topics include: September 3 and 5, the Reverend Thomas Quinn, marriage counselor and national president of The Federation of Christian Ministries; September 10 and 12, the Reverend Jeff Schutz, pastor of Crossroads Community of Greater Danbury; and September 17 and 19, the Reverend Dessain Terry, former pastor to The Church of Christ, Danbury.

The series is produced by Rev McIlrath, DMin, of Sandy Hook, coordinator of the Corpus Connecticut Community and ecumenical chaplain to the Lutheran Home of Southbury. Viewers are invited to respond to the programs at lionofjudah56@gmail.com.

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Here is how Wilton's elected officials supported their budget, From the Wilton Paper: Please join us at the Annual Town Meeting (ATM) on Tuesday, May 6 and cast your vote on the Board of Selectmen and Board of Education budgets, as well as the mill rate and bonding referendums — collectively known as the ‘ATM Recommendations’. These recommendations reflect our community’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, outstanding education, and effective town services.

Says Referendum Process ‘Lacking Leadership’

The voters certainly spoke — and I respect the outcome — but let’s not forget that a “majority” doesn’t mean everyone agreed. Many of us are deeply concerned about the rising cost of living here. Supporting schools and services is important, but so is ensuring that residents can afford to stay in the town they love. We all want Newtown to be a great place to live, but lately, it’s starting to feel less like “Nicer in Newtown” and more like “More Expensive in Newtown.” That’s not sustainable, and it’s not a criticism of the town itself — it’s a call for responsible budgeting and long-term planning that doesn’t rely on tax increases year after year. I hope future decisions will reflect not just the desire to maintain services, but also the need to ease the financial burden on residents.

Budget, Capital Projects Pass: Officials Respond

I appreciate the passion behind this message, and I absolutely understand the desire to invest in our town. That said, I voted no — not because I don't care about Newtown, but because I do. Fiscal responsibility is not about ignoring problems, it’s about making sure we address them in a sustainable and transparent way. It’s frustrating to feel like every year there’s a new “urgent” reason to raise taxes, with little serious effort to curb spending or prioritize needs. I worry this just sets the stage for another round of increases next year. That doesn't mean I’m against education, safety, or our town’s future — it means I believe in accountability and in asking tough questions about how our money is managed. Voting no wasn't a rejection of Newtown — it was a call for more thoughtful, balanced leadership. I hope future conversations can include all perspectives, not just those willing to write a bigger check.

The Voters Chose Newtown

The voters spoke, loud and clear that they support our schools and municipal services. The majority vote was a mandate to keep delivering well rated education services and keep it" Nicer in Newtown."

Great effort by the those who attended to shine a light on the attacks on Democracy. Thanks for the article so all can understand whats happening.

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'Unity & Diversity' Programs Preview

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