Newtown has elected a new administration to lead the way. Congratulations to Democrats Dan Rosenthal, first selectman, and his running mate, new selectman Maureen Crick Owen, as well as new selectman Republican Jeff Capeci. We wish them, and all who were elected to the many important town seats on Tuesday night, the very best. As well, we congratulate all who put forth their best efforts and contributed to a pleasant campaign season.Flat Bridget began her existence the day before the Great Newtown Reunion of 2013, when a few of our worker Bee Bridget Seaman's co-workers here at The Bee created the one-dimensional paper Bridget twin, inspired by the children's book character Flat Stanley - and Bridget herself. Glasses, a tie-dyed shirt, and the Newtown Indians logo (Bridget was a high school product of the early 80s) completed Flat Bridget's "ensemble." Bridget took Flat Bridget all over the reunion in 2013, getting pictures of her with tons of people. Somehow that day, though, she kept missing Mrs Llodra. "Finally!" Bridget tells me, the first selectman graciously accepted having her picture taken with Flat Bridget this month. Flat Bridget has never stopped her traveling, and I hear one of the next stops will be vacationing in Hungary to visit a friend. Think how far she'd go if she was a paper airplane?cvhfoundation.org/the-sanctuary/animal-programming/native-wildlife-support.Country Living magazine, be sure to grab a copy. A familiar face is peeking out from the pages. Newtown resident and creator of NM Country House (blog, e-magazine, and new country home collection at noramurphycountryhouse.com), Nora Murphy, has a nice spread about her decorating prowess for the holidays. You may remember when Nora shared her talent for spectacular gift wrapping with The Newtown Bee back in December of 2012 - even though I'm all paws, I've managed to pull off some pretty spiffy packages since she shared those tips. Thanks, Nora - and congratulations on a growing enterprise.www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-annual-national-vigil-for-all-victims-of-gun-violence-tickets-37457233594. The memorial service, Wednesday, December 6, from 7 to 9 pm, anchors the nationwide vigils that take place throughout December. The Washington, DC vigil will be held at St Mark's Episcopal Church on Capitol Hill.

So far as awesome marching bands go, isn't it nice to know we have one of the best at NHS? Congratulations to our NHS Marching Band & Guard for winning the US Bands New England Championship on October 28. They took Best Visuals, Best Percussion, Best Overall Effect as they marched to victory. Then, at the Regionals on November 4, Newtown competed in the championship round against larger Class 5 and Class 6 bands and won fifth place. It's on to nationals on November 11 - Good luck to our band and guard!

First Selectman Pat Llodra obligingly took a photo with Flat Bridget on November 2.

The Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary announced some helpful tips last week on its Facebook page to help people who may find baby squirrels in fallen nests this time of year. The babies can be reunited with their mother, by taking a few steps. The post says to "place the baby squirrel inside a box (not too deep) with a heated rice sock or a covered microwaveable heating pad. Place box near the fallen tree they came from by nailing the box to closest tree or by using a ladder to place them on safely." It can take the mother some time to return, and playing audio of baby squirrel cries, which can be found online, may help. "During attempts of reuniting, it is important that the situation be closely monitored," the post reads. "If you are not able to successfully reunite or the baby is injured please contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance." More information about wildlife rehabilitators is available at

In other animal news, I started licking my lips when I saw the post on Newtown Animal Control Shelter's Facebook page about Terry Ferris of Ferris Acres Creamery swinging by the shelter to share some pup cups for the canines. I'll take some cat cups, please (Sweet Cream flavor?), hold the dog biscuits!

"Superboy" found Theresa Viesto on Main Street, Halloween night, "and loved that we matched," Theresa says. Both were dressed in Clark Kent/Superboy ensembles.

Travelers on Sugar Street (Route 302) between Bethel and Newtown will be pleased that Dodgingtown Garage has completed installation of new tanks and gas pumps, and once more will be able to fuel you up as you travel that stretch of road. While the garage has remained operational, the removal and replacement of the tanks and pumps has meant no fill-ups there for the past several weeks.

If you haven't seen a copy of the December 2017

What's your destination for next Thursday, November 16? Edmond Town Hall, of course, where Destination Newtown invites the public to its business showcase, from 4 to 7 pm. Not only that, but this year, attendees get to sample pizza from a variety of our local parlors - and vote on the tastiest of all. There's no fee to attend, and you'll have chances to win raffle prizes at this chamber event. Ready? Set? Go!

No doubt you already have plans to "Shop Small" on Small Business Saturday, November 25. There's so much to celebrate here in Newtown, so far as our small businesses go, but if you happen to meander over Brookfield way, Friends of the Brookfield Library are planning a mini book sale for that day. They promise great deals and a great deal to read! The Brookfield Library is at 182 Whisconier Road (Route 25).

Reservations for the 5th Annual Vigil for All Victims of Gun Violence are still being taken at

The beautiful Newtown ornament that was designed for The Sandy Hook Therapy Fund, and sponsored by Julie Allen Bridals and Queen Street Gifts and Treats is available. All proceeds go the Lions Club. The ornaments are sold exclusively at Queen Street Gifts and Treats. The cost is only $20 and can be paid in cash or check. This is the last run of these ornaments and there are only about 50 left. Don't miss out on your chance to have this lovely piece of Newtown while supporting our community.

And might I add: You'll be missing oh, so much, unless you pledge next week to... Read me again.