Home | The Newtown Bee

News

Informational Brownfield Session Conducted At NewSylum As the Fairfield Hills campus is a former brownfield, NewSylum Brewing was chosen as the location of an April 5 informational session on brownfields to help showcase how such properties can be rehabilitated into useful economic developments. As the Fairfield Hills campus is a former brownfield, NewSylum Brewing was chosen as the location of an April 5 informational session on brownfields to help showcase how such properties can be rehabilitated into useful economic developments.State and local officials came to speak on the subject of brownfields and the work being done to make those into usable, tax-revenue-generating properties.Done under the auspices of the state’s Department of Economic and Community Development’s Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD), the informational session also noted funding programs through the OBRD to help develop brownfield properties.A brownfield is “a former industrial or commercial site where future use is affected by real or perceived environmental contamination,” according to Oxford Languages. A brownfield can “not just be a contaminated property, it must have economic potential,” said OBRD Project Manager William Wallach.The OBRD’s mission is to be “a one-stop resource for brownfield redevelopment in Connecticut, providing financial and technical assistance to municipalities and economic development agencies as well as brownfield owners and potential developers,” stated the OBRD in promotional material.“The mission of OBRD is to return brownfield sites across the state to productive re-use, including mixed use, residential, and open space uses,” stated the OBRD.OBRD Director Binu Chandy said the informational session was part of a planned effort to “remarket” the state’s brownfield program. She said each year, the state makes available $100 million in brownfield funding, which last year helped fund 110 projects.“Remediating a brownfield is a win/win/win,” said Wallach. “It can create jobs and housing, and doesn’t hurt the environment while eliminating existing environmental damage.”There are two competitive rounds of applications for assistance for brownfields each year, the first in January and February, and the second in July and August.“The funds can be used for anything and everything brownfield, including testing, investigating, planning, cleaning, hiring lawyers, developing; all that is eligible,” said Wallach.First Selectman Jeff Capeci said that the Fairfield Hills campus had been a “great success” for Newtown and help from the OBRD helped “take the risk out” of the town’s investment.While Capeci said that “not everything” had gone “according to plan,” he was looking forward to potential development of Shelton and Kent houses as mixed-use commercial/residential developments.“If that is successful, that can bring more development because the heavy lifting is already done,” said Capeci.Capeci noted that with NewSylum’s building, 10 years ago the building was run down and crumbling as many other buildings still are on the campus. NewSylum had been a “great partner,” however, and the building was remediated for things like asbestos and it also received a new roof.Economic and Community Development Director John Voket said he remembered standing in the NewSylum building before its redevelopment and there being “garbage on the floor” and “pigeons in the roof.”“It’s fantastic to see it brought full circle,” Voket said of the brewery.In addition to the potential renovations of Shelton and Kent houses, Voket also pointed to another project — the “infamous Batchelder” property — to bring green energy and possible transportation uses to the town.Another former brownfield, 7 Glen Road, which is now the trail head for the Sandy Hook Organization for Prosperity (SHOP)’s Heritage Trail, was renovated to have a pavilion and parking lot.=====Editor Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.

Information Brownfield Session Conducted At Newsylum Jim Taylor Story Informational Brownfield Session Conducted At NewSylum Information Brownfield Session Conducted At Newsylum Featured Slider, News None

Informational Brownfield Session Conducted At NewSylum

As the Fairfield Hills campus is a former brownfield, NewSylum Brewing was chosen as the location of an April 5 informational session on brownfields to help showcase how such properties can be rehabilitated into useful economic developments.

News

Fire Reports | April 3-April 10, 2024

Fire Reports | April 3-April 10, 2024 Fire reports for April 3 through April 10, 2024. Wednesday, April 3: 12:05 pm, motor vehicle accident (MVA), Currituck/Hedge Meadow, Hawleyville responded; 4:17 pm, medical assist, Rock Ridge Road, Dodgingtown responded; 5:02 pm, fire alarm, 36 Key Rock, Dodgingtown and Hook & Ladder responded.Thursday, April 4: 7:20 am, tree/wires down, Buttonshop/Little Brook, Botsford responded; 7:36 am, service call, 62 Church Hill, Hook & Ladder responded; 7:17 pm, MVA, 266 South Main, Botsford responded; 8:50 pm, fire alarm, 20 Pepperidge Road, Dodgingtown responded.Friday, April 5: 4:31 pm, CO alarm, 11 Wiley Lane, Dodgingtown responded; 7:04 pm, fire alarm, 30 Meadowbrook Road, Botsford responded.Saturday, April 6: 2:13 pm, CO alarm, Covered Bridge Apartments, Hawleyville responded; 6:26 pm, fire alarm, 28 Lake Road, Hook & Ladder responded.Sunday, April 7: 8:36 am, training, 160 Hanover Road, NUSAR responded; 3:32 pm, service call, 1 Copper Creek, Botsford responded.Monday, April 8: 7:45 am, MVA, Wasserman Way/Oakview, Sandy Hook responded; 11:57 am, medical assist, West Street, Hook & Ladder responded; 12:22 pm, smoke/odor investigation, 7 Cold Spring, Botsford responded; 2:28 pm, smoke/odor investigation, 20 Gelding Hill Road, Sandy Hook responded.Tuesday, April 9: 9:08 am, MVA, 216 South Main Street, Botsford responded; 1:35 pm, brush fire, Button Shop/Botsford Hill Road, Botsford and Sandy Hook responded; 3:35 pm, fire alarm, 20 Butternut Ridge, Hawleyville and Hook & Ladder responded; 6:36 pm, MVA, Main Street/Hanover, Hook & Ladder responded.Wednesday, April 10: 9:12 am, service call, Johnny Appleseed Drive, Sandy Hook responded.

Fire Reports Story Fire Reports | April 3-April 10, 2024 Fire Reports | August 18-24, 2021 News None

Cultural Events

Newtown PD To Participate In Next Drug Take Back Day

Newtown PD To Participate In Next Drug Take Back Day Newtown Police Department and other law enforcement agencies nationwide will be partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration this month for the 26th Drug Take Back Day. On Saturday, April 27, from 10 am until 2 pm, Newtown Police Department and other law enforcement agencies nationwide will be partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for the 26th Drug Take Back Day.The public can visit the department’s headquarters, at 191 South Main Street, and drop off expired, unwanted, and unused prescription medications.The DEA and Newtown Police Department officers will accept tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs.Liquids, including intravenous solutions; syringes and other sharps; and illegal drugs will not be accepted.The service is free and anonymous. No questions will be asked.Drug Take Back Days are conducted twice a year, in April and October.In October 2023 — the most recent Drug Take Back event — there was participation from 4,383 law enforcement agencies, including 94 in Connecticut. More than 599,000 pounds (300-plus tons) of prescription medications were collected among 4,675 collection sites.Cumulatively, 17,900,351 pounds (8,950 tons) of expired, unwanted, and unused prescription medications have been collected since the launch of this program.Newtown Police Department currently does not have a drug drop box in its lobby.Since July 2018, pharmacies in Connecticut have been authorized to dispose of prescription medications. No Newtown pharmacies currently have Drug Drop Boxes; however, local pharmacies will assist customers with the safe disposal of medications.The DEA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have also posted instructions for safe disposal for medications in the trash at home. Learn more at DEAtakeback.com.

MUST Newtown PD to participate in next Drug Take Back Day, April 27 Story Newtown PD To Participate In Next Drug Take Back Day MUST Newtown PD to participate in next Drug Take Back Day, April 27 Cultural Events, News None

News

Historic Credits For Fairfield Hills Moving Along

Historic Credits For Fairfield Hills Moving Along The town is still in the process of applying for historic credits for renovating two buildings on the Fairfield Hills Campus. First Selectman Jeff Capeci reported to both the Board of Selectmen on April 1 and the Board of Finance on April 8 that the town’s application for historic credits to allow renovation of two Fairfield Hills campus buildings is “going well.”Capeci said he, Economic and Community Development Director John Voket, Economic Development Commission Chairman Jeffrey Robinson, and representatives from WinnCompanies, the Boston-based developer that will renovate the two buildings, went to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) hearing at the Capitol in late March.“It went very well,” Capeci said.The application was before SHPO as the campus is on the state historic register. SHPO would be the same organization that would review changes should the campus be placed on the federal historic register, according to Stacey Vairo, of Preservation Connecticut.Capeci said that the only concern expressed was from the military, which has a dog training facility on the campus. They were concerned they would not be able to build any new training facilities. However, Capeci said that the approval of the credits would not affect any new building, just disallow demolition of old buildings.Capeci said he invited representatives from the dog training facility to come and speak with him and representatives from Winn Development.If approved, the main change beyond allowing Winn Development to renovate Shelton and Kent houses would be that the town would not be able to demolish any buildings during a certain period of time.The federal process would designate the campus and all buildings currently standing as historically significant, and the town would not be able to demolish any of the buildings during the time the project is being worked on and for five years after, or the federal Parks Service, which would award the historic credits, can “claw back” the money. The current time line from Winn estimates that Kent and Shelton would be renovated by the end of 2025 and the claw back period would end at the end of 2030.Town officials currently believe none of the buildings on the campus are so structurally unsound that they may become compromised before 2030 and need to be demolished.Sources of funds for this project include federal Historic Tax Credits, state Historic Tax Credits, and Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC). It is expected that historic tax credits will make up 25% of total project funding.The rest of the project will be paid for by WinnDevelopment, with no cost to the town. The town would sell the buildings to Winn but would lease them the land that the buildings are on.For buildings receiving credit, the exterior space must remain the same and the interior space must still have the same look and feel as the original. For example, a school building would keep the lockers and classroom doors, and may not change the general layout of the building.If the mixed use project moves forward, it is estimated that it will have a $25.3 million positive impact to Town of Newtown’s direct cash flow from now until the demolition bonding payments are completed, over the next 35 years. If the mixed use buildings are renovated, it is estimated that the town will bring in $20,070,555 in revenue, with $31,659,976 in expenses, for a net cash loss of $11,589,420 over those 35 years.If the mixed use buildings are not renovated, it is estimated that the town will bring in $1,612,814 in revenue versus $38,477,451 in expenses, for a net cash loss of $36,864,638.The difference between the two is the $25.3 million positive impact, as the town will see a much smaller cash loss on the Fairfield Hills property with the mixed use buildings. The expenses are mostly in the cost of demolishing the unused buildings, and are estimated to be larger without the mixed use buildings as Kent and Shelton houses would eventually have been demolished as well.The company completed its most recent adaptive reuse project in Connecticut in 2020, when it transformed the former East Haven High School building into mixed-income housing — an effort that earned multiple national awards for development, environmental sustainability, and community impact.In other finance board news, Community Center Director Matt Ariniello came before that board for approval of a $40,000 appropriation for an investigation of damage occurring at the Aquatics Center pool.The pool deck in the Aquatics Center has been developing fissures, and the pool itself has been cracking. While Ariniello determined that the pool itself is not moving, the deck does appear to be shifting and the investigation into why will assist the town in making an insurance claim to CIRMA.Ariniello noted to the BOF that while he did talk about value engineering of the Community Center when discussing the damage to the pool area at a recent Board of Selectmen meeting, there was no evidence yet that anything cut from the project by value engineering had a direct impact on the damage the pool is currently sustaining.The finance board approved the appropriation unanimously. It must still gain the approval of the Legislative Council, which next meets on April 17.

Historic Credits For Fairfield Hills Moving Along Jim Taylor Story Historic Credits For Fairfield Hills Moving Along NBLA, 2GHG planning Jingle Bell Ride_2 Featured Slider, News None

News

Melillo Announces Departure To Darien

Melillo Announces Departure To Darien Superintendent of Schools Chris Melillo is leaving his position in Newtown.Just two weeks before a referendum on a proposed 2024-25 school and municipal budget, Superintendent of Schools Chris Melillo has announced he is leaving his position in Newtown.He has taken a new position, being appointed as the next principal of Ox Ridge Elementary School in Darien during the April 10 Darien Board of Education meeting.Melillo will be leaving his position as Superintendent on June 30, following the end of the school year.Darien Superintendent of Schools Dr Alan Addley announced Wednesday night that he was naming “a colleague” to the position, the superintendent of Newtown Schools, and that Melillo would be “returning to his roots as an elementary school principal.”“He brings a wealth of experience pre-K through K, through graduate,” Addley said.Melillo thanked the Darien Board for the appointment.“I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and doing the work,” said Melillo. “Fostering a thriving educational environment for our students, for our families, for our staff, for our faculty. I can’t wait to hit the ground and start running.”In a letter to the Newtown community issued shortly after the meeting in Darien, Melillo stated that it was “with mixed emotions” that he was resigning.“I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to the entire community for your support and collaboration; it has been a privilege serving as your superintendent,” his statement said in part. “Together, we have worked tirelessly to advance the educational goals of our district and ensure that every student receives the quality education they deserve.”Melillo expressed pride in the progress the district made during his tenure, noting “innovative programs” that were implemented.Melillo came to Newtown in June 2022; he was previously an assistant superintendent in Hamden.Board of Education Chairman Alison Plante this morning released a statement expressing her appreciation for Melillo’s service to the students and staff of Newtown schools, and his “impassioned advocacy for our budget ahead of the upcoming referendum.”“His unique contributions helped focus the District on teaching and learning, which has directly benefited our students and educational community,” stated Plante. “We wish him the very best in his future endeavors. As a Board, we are committed to partnering with Mr Melillo to ensure a smooth transition over the coming months.”=====Editor Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.

Melillo Announces Departure To Darien Jim Taylor Story Melillo Announces Departure To Darien Board Of Education Acts On Ceremony Dates, Adjusts Hawley Move Featured Slider, News None

Features

Education

'Matilda Jr' In The Works At Reed

Reed Intermediate School students are hard at work rehearsing their upcoming production of 'Matilda Jr.'

Features

Snapshot: Mary Salley

Snapshot: Mary Salley This week's Snapshot introduces readers to Mary Salley. Family: My immediate family is my husband Paul and our two daughters, Elizabeth and Noelle. They’re both students at Sacred Heart University. I’m also one of seven children, so I have family across the country.Pets: We have a crazy Labradoodle named Elvis, who is 7 years old.How long have you lived in Newtown? We’ve been here 23 years.Career: I am the executive director at Nunnawauk Meadows. We are a federally subsidized housing complex in Newtown for the elderly and disabled. I oversee the staff and run the day-to-day operations.Are you part of any local organizations? I’m part of Hope on Main Street. It’s a local Relay For Life team but we fundraise throughout the year for the American Cancer Society. I’m also a parishioner at St Rose.What do you like to do with your free time? We like to go to concerts, and we love to socialize with friends. I love cooking and gardening, and we have a one-acre vineyard in our backyard where we spend a lot of time trying to make wine.Favorite book genre? I like beachy, summertime novels. Jennifer Weiner is one of my favorite authors.What is the most recent book you’ve read? I’m in the middle of reading Of All The Light You Cannot See.Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life? My husband. He’s got some adversities he deals with on a daily basis but it never stops him or slows him down. He always has a smile on his face and a joke on his lips.If you could spend the day with one person, living or deceased, who would you choose and why? My mother. She passed away when I was 20 years old, and I’d love it if she could see how we’re all doing.What is the most recent movie you have seen in the theater? Priscilla, at Edmond Town Hall. When we go to the movies, we really only go there.Favorite movie genre? Rom-coms, happy movies — I like movies that make me laugh. I don’t like scary movies and I don’t like movies that are depressing. I watch movies and I read books to escape to a happy place.Favorite musical genre? I like it all. Last summer we went to a lot of concerts. We got to see everything from Taylor Swift to The Steve Miller Band, Dead & Company, we like it all. I’ll also admit: I have a special place in my heart for 80s hair band music. We like to go to the live music events at Edmond Town Hall.What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? Treat others with kindness.Do you have any pet peeves? No, not really.Favorite color? Yellow.What is something you cannot live without? Coffee. A good cup of coffee — black in the morning, and cream in the afternoon. Caraluzzi’s has the best beans in town.What is your proudest accomplishment? My girls. Raising two happy and kind daughters.What is your favorite travel destination? It’s a tie. We’ve gone to Cape Cod every summer for 20 years, and we’ve been lucky enough to go to Ireland twice too.What is your favorite part about Newtown? Everything that’s available to do. You don’t have to leave Newtown to do a lot, between the live music and the library, outdoor recreation at Fairfield Hills. There’s enough to do in and around town to keep you busy if you want to be busy.What would you like to see covered in The Newtown Bee? Profile more work from home businesses. People you see at craft fairs, for instance, who have small home-based businesses, I’d love to read about them. I don’t think we realize how many people have their own small, crafty type businesses. But I think you guys do a great job.Do you have a personal credo? When you know better, you do better.

snapshot -- Mary Salley Story snapshot -- Mary Salley snapshot -- Mary Salley Features None

Features

The Value Of Reconnecting With Old Friends: Grammy Award-Winning Violist Mooke To Headline Next Flagpole Radio Café

The Value Of Reconnecting With Old Friends: Grammy Award-Winning Violist Mooke To Headline Next Flagpole Radio Café Newtown music lovers have something big to look forward to this spring. Newtown music lovers will have something big to look forward to this spring. On May 11, Edmond Town Hall will host the next performance of Flagpole Radio Café, a local variety show that blends musical performance with witty comedy.While the event certainly promises to showcase a number of prominent local artists, residents can expect to enjoy a guest performance by Grammy Award-winning violist and composer Martha Mooke, known for her powerful fusion of classical and electronic sound.Mooke told The Newtown Bee this week that she identifies as an “electro-acoustic violist” and a “creative instigator.”As a performer, she shared, one of her main goals is to “help audiences experience the concert in multidimensional ways” and use the opportunity to connect with audiences and inspire them to unlock their own creative potential.“I find it opens up new channels and new ways of broadening the experience,” she related, “when people realize that when they go to a concert it’s not just listening with their ears.”Mooke comes equipped with a traditional classical training and a master’s degree in viola performance from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. After experiencing some work by the innovative jazz violist Jean-Luc Ponty, however, she started to engage seriously with less traditional applications of the instrument.“I discovered that a string instrument could do so much more than just playing Mozart,” she said April 9. “Not that there’s anything wrong with just playing Mozart, but to play jazz, to improvise, to plug into electronics like guitar players do — that opened up a whole new world to me.”These experiences led her to become one of the pioneering players of the electric viola at a time when few artists were experimenting with such an instrument. This uniqueness then captured the interest of the musician and producer Tony Visconti, well known for his work with Marc Bolan and David Bowie.“Tony and I became friends, and then I started doing recording sessions for him, and then I produced a showcase and asked Tony to be the host of it,” she explained. “It was a showcase that was featuring classically-trained musicians that were making music that defied boundaries.”The result of this collaboration was the 2001 American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers’ (ASCAP) new music showcase “Thru the Walls,” which went on to earn Mooke the ASCAP Concert Music Award.“Tony invited David Bowie to come to the very first one,” she recalled, “and David came to the show. That’s how I met David Bowie! He came to my show, sat at my table, and heard me play my electric viola with my duo partner who plays the guitar.”According to Mooke, Bowie enjoyed the performance so much he wanted her to form and lead a string quartet to play alongside him at Carnegie Hall for an upcoming Tibet House benefit concert which was being produced by the esteemed composer Philip Glass.“That was the whole beginning of another part of my world,” she said. “I got three other string players together, and we rehearsed a couple of times with David. Philip had a recording studio called Looking Glass in those days. Then we played at Carnegie Hall in 2001 and subsequently played the next two years also with David. We ended up recording on his album Heathen.”Mooke’s list of collaborations extends even further. She has performed alongside Barbra Streisand, Andrea Bocelli, Elton John, and Star Wars in Concert, to name just a few.Apart from her performance work, she works as an artist-clinician for Yamaha and is Eventide Audio’s first ever artist in residence. She also teaches as a full-time professor, directing the Multi-Style Strings program, which she personally founded, at New Jersey City University“I was asked to revitalize the string program,” she recalled. “I actually started as an adjunct just to help rebuild the program, and I put together a proposal. I’m classically trained, but I’m self-taught with improvisation and all the other things I’ve learned along the way. I always wished that there was a program I could go to at school to learn all these tools. It took me 30 or 40 years to self-teach. What if these instruments and all these electronics and the people to teach improvisation and these different styles could be an actual program?”Her Grammy Award came just a few months ago, in February. Mooke won the Grammy for Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album for her electric viola performance on Carla Patullo’s album So She Howls.Newtown residents may wonder what could have motivated Martha to take an interest in our local music scene here in town. The answer is a powerful illustration of the value of connecting with old friends.In a pre-show press release Flagpole Radio Café Producer Martin Blanco shared he and Mooke “knew each other as undergraduate students at SUNY Albany, where she was studying music, I was studying English and Theatre, and we both worked at the Performing Arts Center on campus.“While I regret that we haven’t seen each other in 39 years,” he added, “I am delighted that we will have the opportunity to be reacquainted through the show. I can’t wait to see how she ignites the Edmond Town Hall.”Martha Mooke’s work can be listened to on all major music streaming platforms as well as on her YouTube channel, which can be easily discovered by searching her name. Curious readers should visit her website marthamooke.com or follow her on Instagram at “elecviola” to learn more.The Flagpole Radio Café is scheduled to begin at 7 pm Saturday, May 11, at Edmond Town Hall, 45 Main Street. Tickets are $45 per person and can be purchased online at edmondtownhall.ticketleap.com or flagpoleproductions.org.=====Reporter Owen Tanzer can be reached at owen@thebee.com.

Flagpole Radio Cafe-Martha Mooke feature preview Owen Tanzer Story Grammy Award-Winning Violist Mooke To Headline Next Flagpole Radio Café Flagpole Radio Cafe-Martha Mooke feature preview Featured Slider, Features None

Features

The Way We Were

The Way We Were Newtown news of 25 50, 75, 100 and 125 years ago, from the archives of The Newtown Bee. April 16, 1999HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER OF Lisa Franze.* * * * *High winds Tuesday afternoon caused a large tree limb to snap and fall over a utility pole crossarm near 58 Glen Road in Sandy Hook, bringing down a primary electrical line into the street. It also brought down computers, fax machines, cash registers and every other electrical necessity of daily life throughout Sandy Hook Center. The fallen wire caused a small brush fire and an electrical outage that lasted almost five hours in some sections of Sandy Hook. Sandy Hook and Newtown Hook and Ladder firefighters responded to the downed wires and brush fire about 3:15 pm. The electrical cable fell in the vicinity of passing traffic on Glen Road near Shorewood Fine Art Reproductions, Inc.* * * * *Is it ever proper to look a gift horse in the mouth? Perhaps when you smell gas on its breath. Contaminated soil and groundwater from gas tanks excavated four years ago from Fairfield Hills land that now belongs to the town has Newtown’s first selectman asking questions about the state’s “gift” to the town in 1997. Two years ago this week, Newtown accepted a 22.6-acre plot of land from the state at Fairfield Hills along Mile Hill Road. At the time, there were some who were reluctant to accept the property since there was apparently no guarantee that the land was free of pollutants. The land was given to the town by the state, free and clear, but the town has to agree to accept it “as is,” and the state would accept no liability for any pre-existing conditions. At the time, the Legislative Council felt pressure to make a decision to accept the offer quickly before Hartford changed its mind and rescinded the offer.* * * * *Eighth grade students returned recently to Newtown Middle School after an overnight field trip to Gettysburg, Penn. The students took in the lay of the land at the site of the Civil War’s pivotal battle between the north and south. They explored exhibits and museums, and went on the Cemetery Walk at the battlefield. There was even some time left for fun at the Allstar Fun and Sports Complex.* * * * *The Children’s Adventure Center has received a $5,000 educational grant from The Albert W. and Helen C. Meserve Memorial Fund. The center will use the money to set up two smaller learning centers within the two current large classrooms at the center on Riverside Road. The new program is being planned in connection with the 30th anniversary of the center, which was the first local child care center.* * * * *Newtown native Jane Ryan is being featured in the original musical comedy revue Smorgasbord! The comedy opened last week and will continue through May 1 at The Duplex Cabaret Theatre in New York City. … Written and directed by Danbury’s Bradford Blake, Smorgasbord! celebrates the foods we eat and how we eat them through a variety of musical styles, ranging from Noel Coward to Stephen Sondheim. Originally presented last year at Ridgefield Playshop for the Performing Arts, the revue was hailed by local media as “rich in comedy calories.” … Jane Ryan (nee Ferraiuolo) grew up in Newtown and began honing her acting skills with the Country Players of Brookfield at the age of ten. At Newtown High School, she appeared as Nimue in Camelot and as Mrs Higgins in My Fair Lady. … Upon graduation from high school, she was cast in a national tour of Evita. She also toured Europe with West Side Story, and appeared in numerous productions at Candlewood and Paper Mill Playhouses.April 12, 1974Providing Newtown is willing to match the amount, the Federal Bureau of Outdoor Recreation is ready to give $74,368 toward buying Ram’s Pasture on the corner of Routes 25 and 202 for open space. The offer is good until January 1, 1975. By that time, the Town will have to have appropriated the entire purchase price of the property, in order to get the reimbursement from the federal government. … The 12 acre property, currently owned by the Newtown Cemetery Association, has been included in the Conservation Commission’s open space plan since last year. Two houses in bad repair stand on the property. The land is wet, low lying and imperfectly drained by the one pond upon it.* * * * *Liberalized regulations which would open up 610 acres of land owned by the Bridgeport Hydraulic Company to hunters licensed by the state have drawn some opposition from citizens in the towns involved. Under Public Act 73-522, which authorized recreational activities on grounds of public water supply reservoirs, the Hydraulic Company leased to the state last fall a portion of its property in three towns for hunting. Newtown has the largest portion of the land, 345 acres, with 190 acres in Easton and 75 in Redding.* * * * *Newtown schools are overcrowded, and the Board of Education is mulling over the idea of having double sessions somewhere within the system when school opens in the fall of 1974. One of the most talked about ideas is having the Middle School go on double sessions, thus separating grades 5 and 6 from grades 7 and 8, and solving space problems. Although a decision has not been reached on the proposal, it is one which both parents and teachers have mentioned to the Board as being a good idea. The main reason given is that it would alleviate some of the discipline problems which are cropping up in the school or have existed there for some time.* * * * *The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on April 3 in Edmond Town Hall, approved the application of John L. Danise of Mr D’s Italia Pizza and Restaurant to permit the erection of an internally illuminated sign in the restaurant on South Main Street. The Board approved the sign with stipulations “as they felt this was in harmony with the general intent and purposes of the zoning regulations and that the proposed sign would not substantially impair property values in this neighborhood.”* * * * *The Newtown Historical Society — and a great many guests — had the special treat at their meeting on Monday, April 8, of hearing Miss Alice Winchester speak on her, and their, favorite subject, the very wide world of antiques. What a pleasure it is to hear an authority of the top rank speak with the quiet assurance of experience and the charming rather intimate humor that comes from long knowledge and an appreciating eye. On the eve of the Bicentennial, Miss Winchester took her audience back to the startling fact that it was during the tremendously daring exhibitions of the Centennial, that a tentative interest in “antiques” was born, and thence spread like the traditional wild fire, until today it is an addiction.* * * * *The first session of a two-week Senior Intern Program sponsored by Senator Lowell Weicker Jr came to a close on March 22, as 42 senior citizens returned to Connecticut after receiving a firsthand look at their government in action in the nation’s capital. Mrs Nelle B. Dunlop was among those to attend the program.* * * * *The following students are competing this week in the Connecticut Science Fair at Norwalk State Technical College: Theresa Peterman, Diana Rosato, James Dirienzo and Chris Flanagan of St Rose School; Jeff Belanger, Stacy David, Thomas Herb, Chalk Hill School in Monroe; and John Harmon and Jeffrey Millo, Monroe Catholic.April 8, 1949First event on the program at Tuesday evening’s PTA meeting held in the Hawley school was a talk, “Safety on Bicycles,” by State Policeman Thomas V. Dunn of the Ridgefield Barracks. He was introduced by Mrs Alexander McQuillan who conducted the meeting in the absence of the president, L.E. Pelletier. Officer Dunn gave some fundamental rules for safe bicycle rides which included the following: Don’t ride on the road till you know how to ride well. Never ride double, more than one person on a bicycle is dangerous. Keep both hands on the handlebars and don’t carry bundles or other things in your hands. Don’t ride two or three abreast, always go single file. … Officer Dunn emphasized the importance of these rules of the road by saying that there were 194 bicycle accidents in the State of Connecticut in 1948 in which five children were killed.* * * * *Mr and Mrs William Kimball stopped to see friends in Newtown on Wednesday on their way from Florida to their home in Vermont. Mr and Mrs Kimball and family lived for a number of years in the house on Main street now owned by Mr and Mrs Mills Waggoner.* * * * *One hundred and thirty members and guests of the Newtown Fish and Game Club, Preston Beers, president, gathered at the Parker House last Thursday evening for their annual dinner and get-together. As in previous years, ladies were invited and the whole company enjoyed an excellent turkey and ham dinner. Highlight of the evening was the awarding of many substantial, worth-while door prizes. Local merchants had cooperated with the club in helping to provide suitable awards.* * * * *The regular monthly meeting of the Visiting Nurse Association was held in the Edmond Town Hall, Tuesday afternoon, with the president, Mrs Ellis Gladwin, presiding. Various reports were given and Mrs Mortimer Smith was admitted as a member of the board. Miss Kline, visiting nurse, reported that the home nursing course, sponsored by the VNA, is being held at S. John’s Hall every Thursday afternoon from 1 to 3 o’clock. The course is being enjoyed by many.* * * * *At the regular dinner meeting of the Newtown Rotary Club held at the Parker House on Monday evening, Franklin Macgregor of West street was the guest speaker. Mr Macgregor gave the group an eye-witness account of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As a bombardier, Mr Macgregor was a member of the 509th Composite Group, a B-59 group of 15 planes of the 20th Air Force, trained at Wendover Field, Utah, for these particular missions. He spoke of the far-reaching effects of the atom bomb, its tremendous power of destruction and horrifying results, and stressed the necessity of settling international disputes by peaceful means. A World Federalist, he pointed out the importance of obtaining an effective international control of war as our only means of survival.April 4, 1924EDITORIAL INK DROPS: We are sorry to see the unsightly billboards increasing along our state highways. We hope the coming Legislature will tackle the subject and eventually put them out of existence. The greatest advertising firm in the world, the Standard Oil Co, has waked up on this question. In an attempt to start a coast-wide movement for the removal of outdoor advertising signs along highways the Standard Oil this week began wrecking and burning 1600 of them in the Northwest, hoping its example would be followed by other corporations. Many of the signs are electrically lighted and very expensive, but they are all going to the fiery pyres wherever their presence destroys scenery. Last year the Forest Service removed all advertising matter from highways within national forests. Realizing the value of natural scenery along the highways traveled by thousands of tourists, the Northwest states are unanimous in the desire to keep them free from distracting and self glorifying sign boards. Many Northwest towns have passed ordinances compelling signs in the corporate limits to be place twenty feet from the street lines.* * * * *The young blizzard which struck Newtown about 4 pm, Tuesday, increased with fury all the evening and by morning there were 10 to 12 inches of snow on the level, with many country roads drifted full. Louis Lovell responded to three calls from autoists stuck on Mt Pleasant, and the Liberty Garage was also called to the same section to help autoists stuck in snowbanks. W.C. Johnson, foreman of the local highway force, was right on desk and Frank Goodsell started out with the big truck and plow and kept at it through the night, and when the average citizen looked out in the morning he found the state roads clear for any traffic.* * * * *In spite of the raging storm of Tuesday night, about 40 people came out at the meeting of the Church Forum at the Congregational church, when Superintendent of State Police Robert Hurley was the speaker. For about an hour Mr Hurley held the closest attention of his hearers, his address bubbling over with humor. Mr Hurley was accompanied by Attorney Single of the State police department. The hostesses of the evening, Mrs Beers and Mrs Sanford Mead, served hot cocoa and crackers.* * * * *Herbert H. Cutler, the efficient and popular postmaster at Sandy Hook, tendered his resignation on Thursday last and will retire from the position as soon as an acting postmaster is named by the department. Mr Cutler has conducted the office to the satisfaction of the public and there is general regret throughout the Hook that he is to retire. He will take a position with S. Curtis & Son, the box manufacturers, of Berkshire. A petition for the appointment of Mrs Nellie E. Tucker as his successor has been circulated and very generally signed by the patrons and business people of Sandy Hook. Mrs Tucker has been connected with the office as assistant for 20 years and is well qualified for the important post.April 14, 1899I.P. Blackman in the Glen has a bicycle he would like to sell as he expects to get a chainless. The bicycle is in good condition and is very strong to stand the rough riding over our country roads. Anyone wishing such a wheel would do well to see Mr Blackman at once, as it can be bought very easily.* * * * *The New York Belting & Packing Co shipped from their factory here another nice elevator order of belting amounting to a car load. These were going to Duluth, Minn. There were no unusual long rolls of belting, this time, but one of the belts was a bucket belt 52 inches wide, 7 ply, 305 feet long, which was one of the widest and heaviest bucket belts they have ever made. The other belts were 44 and 40 wide, 4 ply carrier belts, and 22 inch 5 ply bucket belts.* * * * *The report is current that Mr and Mrs Lawrence Taylor are soon to leave Botsford, Mr Taylor having secured a desirable position in New York City. While wishing Mr and Mrs Taylor success in their future welfare, Botsford people feel that they cannot be spared from that community.* * * * *Martin Winton took advantage of the law on fishing, April 1, and caught a 14-ounce trout.* * * * *Edward Pillsbury, with his team, has been busy drawing ties for Charles Winton in Zoar. This week he moves his family to Shelton into his new house, which has been lately painted and put in readiness for his occupancy.* * * * *Senator Whitlock of Derby, Postmaster Gaylord of Ansonia and Mr Long of Phoenix Bridge Co are among those who have been in town recently after the festive trout. They stopped at the Grand Central.Do you have photographs of people or places in town from a bygone era? The Way We Were is the perfect landing spot so that your photographs can be enjoyed by Newtown Bee readers. Images can be e-mailed as attachments to shannon@thebee.com, subject line: Way We Were photo. When submitting photographs, please identify as many people as possible, the location, and the approximate date. If you live locally and would like to loan a photo/photos, please give us a call (203-426-3141) to let us know when you will be visiting.

way we were Story way we were way we were_210 Features, Way We Were None

Features

Dozens Enjoy Night Out With ‘Bridesmaids’ Movie Event At Edmond Town Hall

Dozens Enjoy Night Out With ‘Bridesmaids’ Movie Event At Edmond Town Hall Pitched as the “must attend girls night of the year,” dozens of guests responded to the invitation for a Bridesmaids movie event at Edmond Town Hall Friday, April 5.Pitched as the “must attend girls night of the year,” dozens of guests responded to the invitation for a Bridesmaids movie event at Edmond Town Hall Friday, April 5.The event was designed to have people round up their friends for a fun night out and enjoy various activities themed around the hit 2011 comedy film.Edmond Town Hall Business Manager Lauren DiMartino was super thrilled, she said, to have an event that would “bring the community together.”“One of our goals at Edmond Town Hall is to continue bringing fun, different types of entertainment and programs, more than just music and movies. Because we’re always trying to bring in multiple types of events, we thought this would be really fun,” DiMartino said. “And it turned out to be a full ladies night, so I’m really excited.”ETH staff made the event special by going all out with preparations. Anyone entering through the front doors of the building were greeted by the light of a cocktail bar to their right. There were several drinks available from beer to wine, including the speciality Pink Prosecco Margarita, a cocktail made with tequila, lime, pink lemonade, and other ingredients.People were also lining up at the concessions for other snacks such as popcorn, pretzels, and candy. Pink and purple lights showered the town hall as the crowd cheered and hollered all night long. Nearly everyone in attendance was wearing dresses in the spirit of the movie, with many sporting similar outfits to match with their “girl squad.”The event was hosted by Newtown Stage Co Founder Ryan Loucks with some additional help from his wife Erin Loucks. Donned in a top hat and golden suit, Ryan moved the event from one activity to the next.Each activity was paired with its own prize, such as a three-night stay in Punta Cana and spa gift baskets, courtesy of the event’s title sponsor Expedia Cruises and its supporting sponsors Jasmine Bridal and Julie Allen Bridals.The night kicked off with Bridesmaids-based trivia and transitioned into a bouquet catch, only to get crazier from there. Everyone sang karaoke and some competed to see who had the craziest bridesmaid story, with the highlight of the night being a special four category costume contest.The crowd could vote for who wore the ugliest bridesmaid dress, who had the craziest walk of shame, who could pull off their best Melissa McCarthy impression, and who had the most enthusiastic bridal party.The night was topped off with a screening of Bridesmaids, the movie that brought everyone out in the first place.DiMartino, who was amazed by the turnout, feels as though the community support is what drives all these different events to the town hall.“I think we’re passionate about the opportunities that we have, whether it’s music or comedy. And when we get people that tell us how much fun they’ve had and that they love what we do, to me that’s very … that’s what makes me continue,” DiMartino said. “It makes me so happy because we’ve worked so hard over the past few years, and that people are really seeing what we do here and really enjoying it.”Reporter Jenna Visca can be reached at jenna@thebee.com.

Residents Enjoy Night Out With “Bridesmaids” Movie Event At Edmond Town Hal Jenna Visca Story Dozens Enjoy Night Out With ‘Bridesmaids’ Movie EventAt Edmond Town Hall Residents Enjoy Night Out With “Bridesmaids” Movie Event At Edmond Town Hal Featured Slider, Features None

Sports

Murphys Make It A Family Affair On The Sacred Heart Basketball Court Mike, Jamie, Liam, and Braden Murphy all have significant roles with the Pioneer basketball program.While it might not be uncommon for a parent to coach his or her son or daughter, and perhaps only a bit unusual for a sibling or father-son coaching connection, or even for a husband-wife coaching tandem, having all of these in place at the university level — all at the same school no less — is another story.Never mind the Final Four, there is a Newtown Murphy Four at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield. Mike Murphy is the head coach of SHU’s women’s club team and is joined on the bench by both his son Liam and wife Jamie. What’s more, Liam’s brother Braden is a practice player for the SHU Division I women’s team, which won the Northeast Conference for the second year in a row and qualified for the NCAA Tournament. Braden had the opportunity to travel with the team to South Carolina. Braden had an opportunity to meet members of the South Carolina squad which went on to capture the National Championship on April 7.You may have heard of March Madness, the postseason tournament time that spills over into April each year, but at SHU perhaps the phrase Murphy Madness would be more appropriate.“I am very lucky to coach with my son and have my wife be involved as well. It is really awesome,” Mike said. “I get to coach with my son, my wife is involved with some practices and is at all games, it is a family atmosphere. The players and university are amazing — could not be happier with this opportunity.”Mike and Jamie saw their lives cross paths through basketball when they both played four years at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, N.Y. Jamie was in the second Hall of Fame Induction Class at Mount Saint Mary; she is the No. 2 all-time scorer in women’s program history. During games at SHU she talks with players, offers advice, and determines areas to improve.This is Mike’s second season with the SHU club team. Last year the Pioneers went 17-5, won its league and lost to the University of Massachusetts in the New England Regional semifinals. The team’s highest ranking was No. 2 and it finished the season ranked No. 11.The squad surpassed its win total of a year ago, won its league and played in the New England Regionals in Boston during the first weekend of April. Ranked No. 12 in the preseason poll, the Pioneers got as high as No. 5 this season.The head coach is extremely pleased with the success the Pioneers have had, especially given the loss of key graduates last year. “We lost six seniors who set the tone for the program and this year returning players have kept it going,” he said.“We’ve had success but, more importantly, we’ve been able to work with some young individuals who love the game,” Mike said.Mike has more than 25 years of coaching experience, including several with high school teams, including Immaculate of Danbury — where both of his sons played — and nine seasons at the youth level.Liam is an assistant coach. He helps develop practice plans, scouting reports, individual improvement with players, and game preparation among his responsibilities. Having the chance to direct a team alongside his dad is a unique opportunity.“It’s really cool. Growing up he coached all of my games. I couldn’t ask for anyone better to coach with,” Liam said.Liam said the family members do bring their coaching minds home with them and give each other input about areas in which the team is doing well or needs to improve, and that it is nice to have three different perspectives.It has become increasingly common for women’s basketball programs to use male students as practice players in an attempt to push the women more in their game preparation, Mike said.“It’s a lot of fun,” said Braden, an SHU business major, adding that the team has been welcoming and he has built many friendships through this experience. The coaches scout opposing teams and Braden’s role varies from pregame to pregame as he simulates various types of opponents such as long-range shooters or those who drive to the basket, for example.What’s even more is that Mike’s brother Matt coaches the Newtown High School boys’ team and his daughters Shea and Moira, along with his son Keenan, now a senior at South Carolina, played for NHS. Mike and Matt also run the Murphy Basketball Camp for girls and boys each summer. Basketball has run in the Murphy family for years; in 1998 Mike and Matt took over the camp started by their dad.“Its fun. When you grow up in a basketball family you look forward to March,” Braden said.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

Murphy SHU Basketball Connection Andy Hutchison Story Murphys Make It A Family Affair On The Sacred Heart Basketball Court Murphy SHU Basketball Connection Featured Slider, Sports None

Murphys Make It A Family Affair On The Sacred Heart Basketball Court

Mike, Jamie, Liam, and Braden Murphy all have significant roles with the Pioneer basketball program.

Sports

Hawk Laxmen Bounce Back From Opener During Character-Building Stretch Of Games

Hawk Laxmen Bounce Back From Opener During Character-Building Stretch Of Games Newtown offense turns it on with a ten-goal outburst against rival Weston.Newtown High School’s boys’ lacrosse team followed up a 5-1 loss to visiting Fairfield Warde in the April 6 season opener with an impressive 10-4 victory at defending South-West Conference Champion Weston on April 9.“Great team win. Our players bought into our adjustments from game one and worked so hard — I am very proud of them,” Coach Tony Fitti said. “Our attention to detail allowed ourselves to generate scoring opportunities. We dodged hard, found space, and played very unselfishly assisting on eight out of ten goals. Our defense clamped down and gave our offense a ton of confidence. Our bench was incredible — they gave us a ton of energy from the opening faceoff.”Marty Dunn scored a hat-trick, freshman Nick Stockwell — who scored against Warde in his first varsity action — netted a pair of tallies and had an assist, and Marcus Gerace logged a goal and four assists.Goaltender Blake Ballard made eight saves. Brady Macey had six ground balls, Fisher Stites five ground balls, and Cole Stockwell and Asher Williams both recorded five ground ball scoops.Following Thursday’s visit from Bethel the Hawks host Masuk of Monroe Saturday, April 13, at 6 pm.“We have a really tough stretch. We play three very good conference teams in a row. It’s a gauntlet — it’s a good start. It’s going to teach us a lot about ourselves,” said Fitti, adding that this is a character-building start to the season.Newtown retained much of its defense from last year’s State Tournament-qualifying squad which won its opening round state game against Warde. That strong D helped make this season’s opener/rematch with Warde a low-scoring contest.“We rely on them a lot. We put a lot on them as coaches,” Fitti said.Specifically, the Hawks implemented a man-to-man defensive strategy in which the three midfielders do not help the back line but instead cover their men off ball on the defensive half of the field, Fitti said.“Basically, we play a high-level college style defense and leave our long poles on a defensive island and ask them to play their matchup straight up. We do not give them help from the other three players, which allows those three to take care of their responsibilities,” the coach explained. “If they get beat there is no one to back them up but the goalie.”Fitti likened the strategy to that of man-to-man cornerback defense with no safety help.Long pole defenders Macey, Cole Stockwell, and J.J. Haddick, along with newcomer and defensive midfielder Brady Brosius, stepped up and limited Warde’s chances, particularly in the second half when the Mustangs mustered just one goal.Freshman Luke Gagnon took faceoffs admirably and had some success in his first varsity effort, helping the Hawks gain possession and keeping them in the game.The new-look offense struggled in part due to the physical nature of this penalty-filled tilt. Both teams were a bit too rough at times and each defense was up to the repeated challenge of killing of roughing, slashing, and holding, and delay of game penalties.Macey collected five ground balls, Gerace had four ground ball scoops, and Kyle Ruddy had a trio of grounders. Ballard made some big saves to keep the game within reach.Nick Stockwell, Ruddy, Gerace, Andrew Bradley, Sean Reilly, Gavin Doyle, and Charlie Massett were among players to set up some good chances in the second half but were denied.The Hawks entered the season looking to find offense from a variety of players after graduating a bulk of its offensive production from a year ago. Fitti noted, following the Warde game, that “you can’t fit a square peg into a round hole” and said it is up to the coaches to get the most out of the players on the field and come up with plays that maximize Newtown’s chances to put the ball into the net.After the performance against Weston it appears that in addition to its stellar defense Newtown is well on its way to making the pieces fit together nicely on the offensive side of things, too.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Boys Lacrosse Andy Hutchison Story Hawk Laxmen Bounce Back From Opener During Character-Building Stretch Of Games NHS Boys Lacrosse_116 Sports None

Sports

Girls’ Lacrosse Team Finding Its Way Early This Season

Girls’ Lacrosse Team Finding Its Way Early This Season Hawks win two then fall in close one against SWC foe Weston.Newtown High School’s girls’ lacrosse team opened the season with a pair of contests against strong nonconference squads and prevailed in both, following up a come-from-behind 11-10 victory over host Conard of West Hartford on April 2 with a 7-4 win over visiting Glastonbury in an afternoon clash at Blue & Gold Stadium on April 6.The Nighthawks, defending South-West Conference Champions, may be off to a winning start but they certainly have had to overcome a lot in the early going and the coaches say they have a long way to go.Against Conard on a rainy and cold day the Hawks had a tough time getting possession on draws and when they did were unable to capitalize in the first half. Conard took advantage of an early yellow card against Newtown and scored three quick goals. Before the Hawks knew it they were in a 9-0 hole at halftime.“One of our strongest defenders recently had a season-ending injury and we are trying to fill her spot which is a big spot to fill,” said Maura Fletcher, co-head coach along with Steph Suhoza, referring to defensive standout Jenna Lagan. “We are getting girls up to speed but it will be a process and the defense needs some time to trust the unit. We will get there.”“The whole team has really stepped up” Suhoza said of filling a significant void left by Lagan. “We have attackers coming in, Natalie McLean moved from attack to mid and Jen Socci moved from mid to defense. It has been a whole team effort and they are all working hard everyday to get better.”The Hawks are also adjusting to a change in rules that coaches certainly can take advantage of from game to game.“This is the first year we are playing quarters and I really like it. It allows us to get a two-minute rest/time-out between quarters that we have never had before. It also allows us more access to both offense and defense,” said Fletcher, whose teams in the past were limited to only the halftime break in addition to a pair of time-outs to give players a breather and/or work on strategy.In the opening-day comeback, Brooke Bulkley scored the first goal in the third quarter to make it 9-1 before standout Summer Harrell took over. “A huge relief when that goal was scored. I just knew it was the start of a run. Summer Harrell took control of the game and scored eight straight. That’s why she is a USA Lacrosse All American player,” Fletcher said.Natalie McLean scored to put the Nighthawks in front 10-9 and the Hawks held the lead with possession with four minutes to go before Conard pressure forced a turnover.“It was disappointing because we know how to handle pressure — first-game jitters. Conard tied it up and got possession on the next draw. Defense, and (goaltender) Alexa Manfredonia specifically, bailed us out on the defensive end,” said Fletcher, noting that Manfredonia made four huge stops and the defense came up with the loose balls.“We were able to clear the ball and Natalie McLean was fouled with seconds to go. Calm, cool and collected, she put the ball in the back of the net with no time left on the clock,” Fletcher said of her execution on a free position shot with the game on the line.As dramatic and exciting of a win as this was, Fletcher would like to see the team improve to a point such a substantial comeback and thrilling finish are not necessary.“It was an eye-opening opener,” Fletcher said. “Luckily we came out on top, but we have a way to go to beat teams on our schedule. Despite this weather, we have been working hard every day. We will get there. We have high hopes and we have the personnel.”Newtown made things a bit easier on itself against Glastonbury.“Our defense performance really held it together and secured the win for us,” Suhoza said.Yellow cards called against NHS put the Hawks a player down for most of the first half, putting pressure on the defense, but Suhoza noted that the D “responded well in the face of adversity.”Suhoza pointed out that the attack players also played a key role in Newtown’s defensive success.“The attack really supported the defense in helping slow the ball down in transition and even resulted in several turnovers. The draw circle had a great day winning more possessions, anchored by Brooke Bulkley. We still look to focus on valuing possession and hitting the back of the net as well as building further upon our defense end,” Suhoza added.It took a while for Newtown to get the scoring going thanks to a combination of solid Glastonbury defense/goaltending and some near-misses, including a shot attempt that went off the cross bar. Finally, Bulkley gave NHS a 1-0 lead with 2:53 to play in the opening quarter. Harrell added a goal with just 30 seconds left in the opening stanza.When all was said and done, Manfredonia made five saves. Bulkley netted two goals and a pair of assists, Jules Battaglia scored two goals, Rachael Albrecht had a goal and an assist, Harrell scored and had an assist, McLean also found the back of the net.The Hawks had their first taste of defeat in their first game against a South-West Conference foe, falling 5-4 to visiting Weston on April 9. Manfredonia came up with nine saves in this defensive battle. Abby Ihlefeld, Mo Murphy, Kayla Locke, and Ella Macey stood out in the back. Newtown struggled with possession, Suhoza said.Harrell had two goals and an assist, Ava Mitchell scored and had an assist, and Battaglia netted a goal.“Offensively, we had a tough time against their zone tonight,” Fletcher said after the game. “Something we will work on moving forward. If we don’t win, we learn. On a positive note we really reduced our fouls, we turned over the ball a lot in transition, but unfortunately just couldn’t capitalize.”The Hawks will be home Friday, April 12, to take on Cheshire at 6 pm. It is also the 15 For Life Foundation game.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Girls Lacrosse Andy Hutchison Story Girls’ Lacrosse Team Finding Its Way Early This Season NHS Girls Lacrosse_155 Sports None

Sports

Another Game Decided In Final Frame Nighthawk Softball Team Wins Again

Another Game Decided In Final Frame Nighthawk Softball Team Wins Again Hawks score twice in seventh inning to edge host Fairfield Warde in another nail-biter.Another game. More last-inning dramatics.Newtown High School’s softball team, early this campaign, has made sure to keep fans on the edges of their seats.The Nighthawks followed up a 1-0 loss to Trumbull with a 7-6 walk-off win over St Joseph of Trumbull, then went on the road and edged Fairfield Warde 5-3 in yet another clash with an FCIAC team, on April 9. This game was even 3-3 in the seventh inning before the Nighthawks scored twice and held on.Maddie Thoesen worked a walk and eventually scored the go-ahead run on a Warde miscue. Bri Pellicone had a key double, stolen base, and scored an insurance run on a wild pitch.It was another lengthy contest. Much like the St Joes matchup that lasted about two hours and 20 minutes, this one took a while.“It was another tough one. The girls continue to grind and I think they have proven again their determination to win,” Coach Megan Goyda said. “Our defense is really what won the game for us. Maddie on the mound really held us together and Julia Berry made some phenomenal plays in right field — but overall it was a solid defensive game. This game lasted two-and-a-half hours. To stay locked in for that long and earn a win is very tough but they did it.”Warde struck first with a run in the second inning of this see-saw game. After Newtown tied things in the third the host Mustangs went ahead 2-1 in the bottom of the fourth only to see the Hawks reclaim the lead, 3-2, with a pair in the top half of the next frame. Warde evened the score in the sixth setting the stage for the final-inning heroics.Addy Cordova had two doubles as part of her three-hit performance, Pellicone and Sophia Caruso also had doubles. Berry, Thoesen, and Lila Accousti also had hits. Cordova and Thoesen each drove in runs and three of the Hawk runs were unearned thanks to a pair of Warde errors. Berry, Pellicone, and Thoesen all had stolen bases.From the pitcher’s circle, Thoesen allowed seven hits, two earned runs, walked two, and struck out seven.Newtown, following games against Shepaug Valley and Joel Barlow of Redding Wednesday and Thursday will host Waterford Saturday, April 13 at noon.Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.

NHS Softball Andy Hutchison Story Another Game Decided In Final Frame AsNighthawk Softball Team Wins Again NHS Softball_151 Sports None

Sports

NHS Track And Field Teams Begin Season

NHS Track And Field Teams Begin Season Newtown High's girls' and boys' runners, throwers, and jumpers are off to a nice start.The Newtown High School girls’ and boys’ track and field teams began the season with the girls visiting Joel Barlow of Redding on April 8 and the boys at Bethel the next day.The girls defeated Barlow 81-69, Bethel 92-58, and Kolbe Cathedral of Bridgeport 147-3.Newtown’s 4x800 relay team of Keira Budge, Leah Morris, Grace Lyons, and Clara D’Amico placed first with a state qualifying time of 10:07.Ella Hall and Lyons both qualified for states in the 100. Hall qualified for states in the 200 as well and Abby Manka hit South-West Conference qualifying with a PR in the 200. The 4x100 took second place and qualified for states.Lyons hit a PR in the 400, breaking 60 seconds to take first place.Aashni Shetty went undefeated for the meet taking first in 100 meter hurdles, 300 hurdles, earning a PR in long jump and triple jump, resetting her own school record with a 34-11. Amanda Reyes will join Shetty at SWC in 100 hurdles and Violet Asante-Abash qualified for states in long jump.Budge took first place in the 1600 qualifying for states helping to pace freshman Ana Morris in her first race as a Nighthawk; Morris also qualified.Morris took first place in the 800 with an SWC standard time of 2:35.Isabella Walder had a busy first meet. She had a standout performance in high jump with a state qualifying jump of 4-10.Throws saw strong performances from Izzy Khazadian, Reyes, Faith Weir, Kaylin Brisette, and Francesca Glazer.NHS pole vault went against the two top vaulters in state and claimed the third, fifth, and sixth spots. Ashley Cote, Bridget Gioffe, and Lola Kessler all qualified for SWC and Kessler reached states with a 9-6.On the boys’ side, Dominic Simpri won the high jump with a leap of 5-10. Orion Lowery is a freshman who ran 4:48 in the 1600. “Exceptional as far as freshmen go. He is currently the fastest freshman in the SWC. And ranked third in the state,” Coach Charlie Taubl said.The 4x100 relay won with an impressive opener. “Aydyn Gonzalez, Hayden Bobowick, Elias Brady, and Gabriel Appiah is a very experienced group of runners who is looking to fight for an SWC win,” their coach said. “Jack Chappa is a new but impactful athlete getting second place in the discus throw.”

NHS Track Story NHS Track And Field Teams Begin Season NHS Sports Recap Sports None

Today's Events

April 19, 2024

“The Poetry Walk”

Fairfield Hills walking path, Keating Farms Avenue

Self-guided tour with paved path embellished with an array of poems by local writers displayed on signs, observing National Poetry Month, presented by C.H. Booth Library, full map of path and poetry locations available online (chboothlibrary.org); 203-426-4533.

April 19, 2024 at 06:00 am

“David K. Merrill’s Lifetime of Painting"

Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street

Presentation of more than 100 original paintings by David Merrill spanning his career of over 60 years, on view to June 27.

April 19, 2024 at 08:00 am

“Doug Calderone: Symbols of America”

C.H. Booth Library (John Angel Art Alcove, third floor), 25 Main Street

Third exhibition of works by the Newtown resident and right-handed carpenter who suffered a stroke one year ago, and has since taught himself how to paint and do wood burning with his left hand, through April 29; 203-426-4533.

April 19, 2024 at 09:00 am

“Discover Exoplanets: The Search for Alien Worlds” NASA exhibit

C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street

A national traveling exhibit that focuses on exoplanets and space exploration, learn about exoplanets and NASA’s search for habitable planets through hands-on, multimedia kiosks and activities spread throughout all three floors of the library, through late May; 203-426-4533.

April 19, 2024 at 09:30 am

Electronics Recycling

C.H. Booth Library (Gathering Room), 25 Main Street

Safely and securely drop off old electronics at the library to be recycled, acceptable items include: computers, iPads, tablets, routers, video game consoles, computer parts, cell phones, cables, wires, and monitors (flat screen only), TVs or large printers and monitors are not accepted; 203-426-4533, chboothlibrary.org.

April 19, 2024 at 09:30 am

2024 SCAN Juried Art Show & Sale

Art & Frame Gallery, 77 Main Street

Annual exhibition hosted by The Society of Creative Arts of Newtown featuring original works in watercolor, acrylic, pastel, graphics, mixed media, printmaking and sculpture, on view to May 24; scanart.org.

April 19, 2024 at 10:00 am

Music Dynamics

C.H. Booth Library (Meeting Room), 25 Main Street

Music educator Brad Peterson will lead children in various musical activities including finger plays, nursery rhymes, poems, songs, dances, and more, for children ages 2-6 with an adult caregiver, registration required; 203-426-4533.

April 19, 2024 at 11:00 am

Lunch & Learn with FirstLight Home Care

Newtown Senior Center, 8 Simpson Street

Free for members (nonmembers call for details)

Co-Owner John Richards and Director of Business Development Monique Bongartz will provide nutritious lunch while sharing insights on FirstLight HomeCare, also delve into “Lessons Learned in Life,” emphasizing the priceless wisdom gained from life experiences and the value of accumulated knowledge over the years, registration required; 203-270-4310.

April 19, 2024 at 12:00 pm

"Migration" matinee screening

Edmond Town Hall, 45 Main Street

Free, free all weekend courtesy Ingersoll Auto of Newtown

Screening of the animated adventure comedy starring Kumail Nanjiani, Elizabeth Banks, Keegan-Michael Key, and Danny DeVito, released in December and rated PG; 203-270-4285, edmondtownhall.org.

April 19, 2024 at 01:00 pm

Pizza & Policy

Newtown Senior Center, 8 Simpson Street

Free for members (nonmembers call for fee details)

Opportunity to join State Representatives Mitch Bolinsky and Marty Foncello to discuss the 2024 Legislative Session and ask questions about state issues, pizza lunch will be served, registration required; 203-270-4310.

April 19, 2024 at 01:00 pm

“Symphony of Sorrowful Songs” by Orchestra Nexus **POSTPONED**

This concert has been postponed; new date TBA.

~~Trinity Episcopal Church, 36 Main Street~~

~~$25 suggested donation~~

Performance of Henryk Górecki’s Symphony No. 3 by Orchestra Nexus, with guest soprano Diana McVey, all proceeds to benefit Trinity Church’s Little Pantry (on-site offering of emergency food to neighbors at all hours); getintouch@orchestranexus.org, orchestranexus.org.

April 19, 2024 at 07:00 pm

"Migration" screening

Edmond Town Hall, 45 Main Street

Free, free all weekend courtesy of Ingersoll Auto of Newtown.

Screening of the animated adventure comedy starring Kumail Nanjiani, Elizabeth Banks, Keegan-Michael Key, and Danny DeVito, released in December and rated PG; 203-270-4285, edmondtownhall.org.

April 19, 2024 at 07:30 pm

Special Editions

Go Out And Vote April 23

Supporting Our Kids By Supporting Our Schools

Vote Yes On April 23

All I Ask Is That You Think About It

Let Your Voice Be Heard By Voting No, ‘Too High’

Budget should be cut by 20%, spending $2.65 million dollars per every week forever is absolutely unsustainable ! Do everything possible to Vote No on another nonsensical attempt to increase the cost of living ! Taxpayers are honestly just renting their houses from the town, it costs me $40 every night to sleep in my own bed ! Soon it will be cheaper living in a hotel than owning a property in Newtown !

Finance Board Moves $1 Million From Education Budget

I went and complaint to Rosenthall's father that the budget was too high at $80M several years ago, now we are at almost $140M . $2.65 million per week that is ! Fairfield hills should have long been developed by investors money and bring revenue to the town. WE ARE DRIVING OURSELVES OUT OF NEWTOWN by doing this and constantly raising the cost of living. It makes zero sense, any extra budget money gets burned on stupid stuff just so they can ask for more next year. Put an END TO THIS STUPIDITY and CUT THE BUDGET 20%. Everyone will be just fine ! Kids won't get any smarter anyway. That's an honest reality !

Why You Should Not Vote For The BOE Budget

Any common sensical person can do this job at under 100k salary. Way overhyped and overpaid at over $200k annual salary. We as voters have to put an end to this. Not to mention an assistant comes along with this job paid at 190k! What is wrong with you voters?

Honestly, I don't know why anyone would ever vote to increase their taxes and give their money away.

Difficult To Vote For BOE Budget Without Specifics

The entire budget needs to be cut not raised. The proposed budget now would sit that we spend $2.65 million dollars every week. For population of less than 30k people it is absolutely absurd ! You cannot keep driving older folks out of town just to create a revolving door of parents who come here, educate their kids and run away ! There is no need to be paying 190K annual salary to an ASSISTANT to superintendent, not in the best interest of tax payers ! The voting turnout at 9% is ridiculous ! Lobby lawmakers to change the voting by mail, so everyone gets a ballot in the mail and at least 51% of residents vote to approve, otherwise the budget should not be approved if you don't have the majority ! Most folks don't even know when the vote is ! They have taxes bundled with mortgage and don't even know ! We are raising cost of living for everyone and it is absolutely not necessary.

Go Out And Vote April 23

Informational Brownfield Session Conducted At NewSylum

'Matilda Jr' In The Works At Reed

The Value Of Reconnecting With Old Friends: Grammy Award-Winning Violist Mooke To Headline Next Flagpole Radio Café

Informational Brownfield Session Conducted At NewSylum

Fire Reports | April 3-April 10, 2024

Newtown PD To Participate In Next Drug Take Back Day

Historic Credits For Fairfield Hills Moving Along

Melillo Announces Departure To Darien

'Matilda Jr' In The Works At Reed

Snapshot: Mary Salley

The Value Of Reconnecting With Old Friends: Grammy Award-Winning Violist Mooke To Headline Next Flagpole Radio Café

The Way We Were

Dozens Enjoy Night Out With ‘Bridesmaids’ Movie Event At Edmond Town Hall

Murphys Make It A Family Affair On The Sacred Heart Basketball Court

Hawk Laxmen Bounce Back From Opener During Character-Building Stretch Of Games

Girls’ Lacrosse Team Finding Its Way Early This Season

Another Game Decided In Final Frame Nighthawk Softball Team Wins Again

NHS Track And Field Teams Begin Season

Guide To Newtown 2024

Holiday Gift Guide 2023

For Better Health - Fall 2023

Home & Garden Fall 2023

Newtown Bee's Back-To-School 2023

For Better Health - Spring 2023

Back To School 2021

The Newtown Bee's Special Edition, 12/14/12

<< Apr 2024 >>
S	M	T	W	T	F	S
31	1	2	3	4	5	6
7	8	9	10	11	12	13
14	15	16	17	18	19	20
21	22	23	24	25	26	27
28	29	30	1	2	3	4

Log In

Go Out And Vote April 23

Informational Brownfield Session Conducted At NewSylum

'Matilda Jr' In The Works At Reed

The Value Of Reconnecting With Old Friends: Grammy Award-Winning Violist Mooke To Headline Next Flagpole Radio Café

Informational Brownfield Session Conducted At NewSylum

Fire Reports | April 3-April 10, 2024

Newtown PD To Participate In Next Drug Take Back Day

Historic Credits For Fairfield Hills Moving Along

Melillo Announces Departure To Darien

'Matilda Jr' In The Works At Reed

Snapshot: Mary Salley

The Value Of Reconnecting With Old Friends: Grammy Award-Winning Violist Mooke To Headline Next Flagpole Radio Café

The Way We Were

Dozens Enjoy Night Out With ‘Bridesmaids’ Movie Event At Edmond Town Hall

Murphys Make It A Family Affair On The Sacred Heart Basketball Court

Hawk Laxmen Bounce Back From Opener During Character-Building Stretch Of Games

Girls’ Lacrosse Team Finding Its Way Early This Season

Another Game Decided In Final Frame Nighthawk Softball Team Wins Again

NHS Track And Field Teams Begin Season

Guide To Newtown 2024

Holiday Gift Guide 2023

For Better Health - Fall 2023

Home & Garden Fall 2023

Newtown Bee's Back-To-School 2023

For Better Health - Spring 2023

Back To School 2021

The Newtown Bee's Special Edition, 12/14/12