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.

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“Hometown Stars: Father And Son Begin ‘Joyful, Amazing’ Journey On The Voice,” by Alissa Silber, published September 27. Millions of people saw Newtown’s own Jim Allen and his son Sasha Allen wow the judges on The Voice’s blind auditions when it aired Tuesday, September 21. After Jim and Sasha stepped foot onto that iconic stage, they talked with The Newtown Bee about how their journey of preparation and dedication to their craft was years in the making. Read more at newtownbee.com/09272021/hometown-stars-father-and-son-begin-joyful-amazing-journey-on-the-voice.

“Newtown Mask Mandate Rescinded As Governor’s Emergency Powers Are Extended,” by John Voket, published October 1. As Newtown came out from under a local indoor mask mandate Monday, September 27, the community’s delegation of state lawmakers readied for a special session of the General Assembly that by Tuesday had authorized further extending Governor Ned Lamont’s emergency powers. That initiative, while passing both the state House and Senate, was opposed across the board by Newtown’s delegation. Read more at newtownbee.com/10012021/newtown-mask-mandate-rescinded-as-governors-emergency-powers-are-extended.

“Waterford Man Dead Following Car Crash,” published September 30. A Waterford man died after the car he was operating crashed into a tree in southern Newtown. Read more at newtownbee.com/09302021/waterford-man-dead-following-car-crash.

“Fierce Barn Blaze Draws All Five Local Fire Companies,” by John Voket, published October 1. A quick response by Newtown Hook & Ladder, and with volunteers from Newtown’s four other fire companies close behind, contained and extinguished a raging barn fire that temporarily threatened a coop and residence. Read more at newtownbee.com/10012021/fierce-barn-blaze-draws-all-five-local-fire-companies.

“Castle Hill Farm’s Corn Maze 2021 Theme Is ‘Happily Ever After,’” by Alissa Silber, published October 1. Castle Hill Farm, at 1 Sugar Lane, has opened its seven-acre corn maze on weekends, from 10 am to 5 pm, through November 7. The annual corn maze has been a staple of the farm for more than 20 years and always has a different theme to it. This year’s theme takes the crown. Read more at newtownbee.com/10012021/castle-hill-farms-corn-maze-2021-theme-is-happily-ever-after.

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