Each week we compile a list of some of the most-read stories published at newtownbee.com. Here is a roundup of the week’s top stories, based on the number of page reads.

Keep up with all the Newtown news by subscribing to the print edition, mailed each week. Click “Subscribe” at newtownbee.com or contact our Circulation Department at subscriptions@thebee.com or 203-426-3141 extension 235 — and check our website for updates.

“Master Gardeners Fighting Lease Termination At UConn Extension Home,” by Jim Taylor, published August 22. Current and past attendees to many events, classes, and meetings held at the Fairfield County UConn Extension facility at the Stony Hill Preserve were dismayed to learn that a lease termination notice was issued in February providing current users and the university six months to vacate. Read more at newtownbee.com/08222022/master-gardeners-fighting-lease-termination-at-uconn-extension-home.

“Family, Friends, Community Mourn Passing Of ‘Newtown Bee’ Publisher R. Scudder Smith,” by Madelia Ring & John Voket, published August 18. The Smith family announced with sadness the passing of R. Scudder Smith on August 14, 2022. He was 87 years old. Born on April 12, 1935, Robert Scudder Smith was the elder son of Paul Scudder Smith and Mary Starr Conger Smith, and older brother to Mary Starr Adams and Ted Smith. Read more at newtownbee.com/08182022/family-friends-community-mourn-passing-of-newtown-bee-publisher-r-scudder-smith.

“School System’s DEI Coordinator Wesley A. Johnson II Resigns,” by Eliza Hallabeck, published August 21. Newtown Public School’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator Wesley A. Johnson II has resigned his position to work for a faith-based nonprofit, as announced by Superintendent of Schools Chris Melillo on August 17. Read more at newtownbee.com/08212022/school-systems-dei-coordinator-wesley-a-johnson-ii-resigns.

“Rochambeau Bridge Renovations Pass Halfway Point,” published August 22. The rehabilitation of the Rochambeau Bridge reached a significant milestone last month. The project consists of the rehabilitation of Bridges 01218 and 04180 (collectively called the “Rochambeau Bridge”), which carry I-84 over the Housatonic River. The bridge also straddles the boundary between Newtown and Southbury. Read more at newtownbee.com/08222022/rochambeau-bridge-renovations-pass-halfway-point.

“Newtown And Bethel Softball Leagues Merged To Stay Afloat, And Champion Is Crowned,” by Andy Hutchison, published August 21. In an effort to keep their respective teams playing in the midst of a decline in squad representation, the Newtown and Bethel women’s summer softball leagues combined in June, played out the season schedule — culminating with the August 12 championship game at Treadwell Park — and the consensus was that the new arrangement is a successful one that will continue going forward. Read more at newtownbee.com/08212022/newtown-and-bethel-softball-leagues-merged-to-stay-afloat-and-champion-is-crowned.

Education Editor Eliza Hallabeck can be reached at eliza@thebee.com.