Fran and Mark Ashbolt celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in an unusual fashion. The longtime Newtown residents recently participated in The London Marathon, and Fran said it was “a wonderful experience.” The Ashbolts had been trying to get into the marathon for ten years, Fran shared with me. They missed out on the lottery — which reportedly received more than 1.13 million ballot applications — so they secured their spots a few months ago after applying through various charities and a promise to raise a minimum of £2,200 for the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. They called themselves The Ruby Runners, and despite the challenges of training in this year’s snow and freezing temperatures, Fran said they were nevertheless excited to participate. On April 26 — their big anniversary — Fran and Mark were part of the record-breaking field of over 59,000 (!!!) participants.

The Ashbolts are safely home — and certainly catching up with their new granddaughter, among others —and now I hear about another local resident getting ready to take a special trip this summer to focus on her athletic abilities. Longtime Sandy Hook resident Amy Krompinger just made the 2026 Women's Masters World Field Hockey Cup for the second time and will be traveling to Rotterdam in July to represent the USA. She is already known to many in town as the founder, owner, and head coach of Aim Athletes Field Hockey Club. She is also a wife and a mother of three and, according to a note from a friend, “She is truly an inspiration for other young girls and women and an asset to our community. Her family and friends are so incredibly proud of her achievements and can't wait to cheer her on in Amsterdam.” This year’s will be a record-breaking global participation with over 400 teams from across the world registered to compete. The United States alone is sending 15 teams — seven to compete in varying men’s age categories and another eight in women’s categories. Best wishes everyone (but especially Amy)!

A few reminders: The annual Newtown High School Band & Guard Fundraiser Tag Sale will be presented this weekend in the old cafeteria at the high school. Early bird shopping will be available Saturday, 8-9 pm, for a $20 entry fee. Regular shopping, without admission, continues Saturday until 2 and then Sunday from 9 am until noon. There will be half-price furniture on Sunday, fill-a-box for $10, and “additional surprise discounts as the sale progresses,” promised a note from organizers.

Also a reminder that flags should be lowered Sunday in observance of National Peace Officer Memorial Day. National Police Week is being observed until May 17 and as mentioned last week, lowering flags on the final day of this solemn observance is an easy but important way to honor the thousands of law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in this country’s history.

There is an updated press release in print and online this week, but I want to also mention here that the annual meeting for and a lecture, “George Washington and His Farewell Address,” to be hosted by Newtown Historical Society are moving. Originally planned at Newtown Senior Center, please be aware the events have been relocated to Newtown Meeting House, 31 Main Street. All other details remain the same: the annual meeting will start at 2, and then Mark Albertson’s program on the early career of this country’s first president, his leadership during the war, influence of his personal presence, guidance of the country, and insights into his Farewell Address, comparing Washington’s advice and the present direction of America’s government, will immediately follow. There is no charge, and reservations are not required.

I know it’s a cramp for organizers to change the location for the programs this weekend, but I think the very historic setting of the meeting house is an appropriate update. I hope everyone who plans to attend (a) finds their way to the correct venue on time, and (b) enjoys the lecture.

If you do head toward Main Street on Sunday — or any time after about 9 am Saturday this weekend — you’ll note another sign of summer’s approach. Borough Senior Burgess and Keeper of the Flag Chris Gardner mentioned during this week’s Borough meeting that the always-breathtaking 20- by 30-foot American flag is scheduled to be raised on the Main Street flagpole for the season Saturday morning.

Newtown Congregational Church’s Hospitality Hall was the recipient of a special donation recently thanks to Newtown High School’s Students Helping the Homeless Club. Founded two years ago and currently co-led by seniors Michayl Wilford and Rebecca Goldman, with guidance from Social Studies Teacher Candice Dietter, the club recently conducted a collection for the pantry and delivered a large bin filled with canned goods and other nonperishables.

If you’re unfamiliar with Hospitality Hall, please know it is available to anyone in Newtown — not just the members of the church on West Street — who needs a hand putting food on the table. The pantry offers dairy, nonperishables, and limited meat and frozen vegetables. During growing season it also offers fresh fruits and vegetables. The pantry is set up in the lower hall of the church, and is available any time the church is open. If you’d like to check on its hours, call the church office at 203-426-9024. Donations are also welcome.

Finally, this week, we’ve reached the midpoint of May, which is being celebrated by Bruce the Spruce with an outfit to honor National Photography Month. Officially recognized since 1987, when Congress recognized the role photos play in society. We knew that long before that year, of course, and love that Bruce decided to recognize it as well.

I recognize that I’m nearly out of space again, so I’m going to picture myself taking a nap and call this column good. I hope you’ll remember to stay focused around this time next week, when it will be time to … read me again.