LIFE

Call it a Christmas miracle, even if the idea was conceived at Christmastime, but not completed. Two friends have a casual conversation about crisscrossing the world and wind up raising thousands upon thousands of dollars to beat pediatric cancer. They also set a Guinness World Record while they were at it.

by Sarah Barr Staff Writer You’ve probably heard the phrase “it’s a marathon, not a sprint.” The analogy is real because anytime someone strives for an ultimate goal, they know they have to put in the work over the long haul in order to compete, no matter the event or the distance. When 18-year-old Santiago Rodriguez registered with Sporting Clube de Portugal as a federated steeplechase athlete, the Newington High School senior climbed the first wrung of many on the ladder

Bob Newbold is living proof that a “perfect storm” is not always a bad thing. It may start that way but the end result can positive.

The United States of America is 250 years old this year and the town is planning multiple events to mark the occasion. It started by forming a Newington America 250 Committee and holding a logo design content.

Marco Tirillo didn’t have to walk far to move his belongings into his new office at John Wallace Middle School. His previous office was right next door.

Barbara Ambler has a unique take on local history. She has seen a lot of it during her long life. Cromwell is celebrating its 175th anniversary as an officially recognized town this year and she has been around for more than half of that time. She still lives in the same house her late husband Homer built on West Street Heights many years ago.

Cultural districts can promote local history and art, attract visitors from other cities and towns, and benefit the local economy. These are among the reasons why town government created a Cromwell Cultural District Commission.

Rocky Hill started as an agricultural community dating back to the first settlers in 1650. That tradition continues today at Gilbert Farm, Hayes Farm and Fair Market Growers. Lisa Gilbert of Gilbert Farm “first got her hands dirty” in 1977, just as her great-great grandfather Elisha Gilbert did in 1845.