Date: Fri 07-May-1999

Publication: Bee

Author: DOTTIE

Quick Words:

snapshot-Mary-Lee-Conte

Full Text:

SNAPSHOT: MARY-LEE CONTE

Occupation: I am a wife and mother. I was formerly in advertising in Canada. I

have a radio and TV arts degree from Loyola College in Canada.

How Long in Newtown: I have lived in Newtown for 2« years. I formerly lived in

Newmarket, Ontario, Canada.

Family: My husband, Joseph, and I have been married for 20 years. We have two

daughters, Gabby, 12, and Nadine, 8.

Hobbies: I love to dance. I am taking NIA (neuromuscular integrated action)

classes at the Monroe Dance Academy. We meditate for about five minutes to get

centered and focused. It's a combination of jazz, ballet and kicks. It's about

wellness. It gets you in touch with yourself. It's the best thing I've done

for myself in a long time. I come away feeling absolutely wonderful. I also

like to rollerblade.

Favorite Books and Authors: I like to read, and I read everything!

Organizations: I volunteer at Ashlar of Newtown with my daughters, visiting

some of the residents. I also teach Sunday School at St Rose. This year I am

also home schooling my daughters, which means making lesson plans and

teaching. I find it very exciting. I have to stay very organized. I stay very

close to the Connecticut curriculum. We spend three hours a day on the

curriculum requirements, and the rest of the time incorporating other things,

such as journal writing. We're not limited. They're taking art classes at the

Art Spot in Brookfield. We studied about Washington, DC and took a trip there

to see the White House and the Declaration of Independence.

Favorite Vacation Spot: We love Florida.

Personal Philosophy: It's basic. Share with each other and be caring of

others. It's the essence of our lives and what we should do. We all have

something to share with others. It's almost our responsibility to do that. One

person can make an incredible difference.