I'm Really Trying to Follow Along Here

We all saw or read or participated in the Chick-Fil-A controversy this summer. As a business woman, I've given thought to this as we are really arguing against some very basic freedoms and I'm not quite sure how to stop the unnecessary momentum. First, Chick-Fil-A has changed some of it's donation organizations. Chick-Fil-A got a day of extra customers, but there was also the kiss-in or kiss-out or whatever it was called, and the ongoing gay boycott. I just read an article the other day in which the gay reporter stated they had not been to Chick-Fil-A since the uproar, but in learning about the change of donation policy had stopped for a half and half sweet tea. The end of the article said, they didn't know if they would go back to eating at Chick-Fil-A or not. The tea just left a not so sweet taste or something . . . So another win for the gay community, I guess.

As an openly straight female, I can tell you, I really don't care who is sleeping with whom, but I do have a problem with the whole concept of tolerance becoming so pushy and intolerant.

I just read an article that said a bakery in Oregon refused to make a wedding cake for a lesbian couple. The lesbian couple went to the Attorney General. Now call me silly, and many have called me worse, but if someone didn't want my business that is their choice and their loss. What's with all the pushing the agenda? For all you gay people that someone called a bad name, I'm sorry, but I've been called bad names too. For all you gay folk that think some people are wrong in the way they feel about homosexuality, well this is still a free country. You should hear what people say about my lifestyle! There are a lot of things I don't have to be comfortable with or approve of, for people to continue to freely exercise their freedom. I don't have to change my political views or religious views because my views disagree with the views of another. And if I'm willing to put my business behind my beliefs, what's that to someone who is coming out to stand up for their beliefs and rights?

Sexual judgment is a favorite here in America, and truthfully, the Bible has quite a bit to say about all of our various "styles" of sinning and the choices we choose to justify and insist that others accept.

Here's the deal folks. The Bible is clear about homosexuality. Believe it or don't. The Bible is clear about divorce and remarriage. Believe it or don't. The Bible is clear about adultery and fornication. Believe it or don't. I didn't write it and I didn't always choose to believe it or obey it. Now I do, and I had to ask forgiveness and change some of my ways, and I know I'm not giving an account for the choices of another. I'm tired of hearing how no one understands each individual's sexuality. Clearly when it comes to some sort of protest or boycott, suddenly individuality is not so important. I'm not saying anyone has to believe what I believe, but someone else shouldn't have the right to belittle my beliefs, either.

I have an odd little insight here, that I'm going to share. I've been called some pretty ugly things over my beliefs and before I was walking in my beliefs. I didn't used to have this perspective, but I've learned the name calling and disrespect reflects on the name caller, not the recipient. As for religious views or sexual orientation, to each his own, but in a free society, if we are going to maintain a free society, people, all people; should be able to choose where and how they spend their money, donate their money, and with the company they prefer to keep.

I may be odd here, but I wouldn't want such an important day as my wedding, and I've had several, so I know of what I speak. I wouldn't want a cake or anything contributed or even furnished at a cost by someone who wasn't wishing me well.
I think it's time for everyone to quit hollering intolerance every time someone has a different opinion or chooses to take a stand. As always, if you don't like the customer service, don't buy their product. If you don't want to participate in an event, don't go. If you don't like the charities a business donates to, don't give them your money, but for crying out loud, if all you want to do is force accommodations of your lifestyle on someone else, you're making homosexuality as much like an annoying religion as the Westboro Baptist Church.

As it turns out, the G-d of the Bible calls a number of things abominations, as it appears in Scripture over 140 times . . . so truthfully no one needs a social tolerance pass. We just need to stop fighting over each other's "right" to commit them, and giving up our freedom to stifle the freedom of another.

History As It Has Been

I'm getting quite down hearted about the fact that print on paper is going by the way side. With digital documentation, the facts are subject to "updates" and possible hacking. Oh, I know, there is protection in place, but historically speaking there has always been a way around the protection in place . . . Locks keep honest people out. I got a little ranty, there, and didn't intend to, let's get back to the history I remember and don't want it to be forgotten, because I see something on the horizon and we need to remember, blame doesn't help, and memories tend to blur as time goes on. I want to talk about Iran.
The US hasn't had an embassy in Iran since the hostage crisis in 1979. I remember very clearly being a young woman watching Ted Koppel on Nightline, and the beginning of the program was always counting the days. Ted Koppel was not the original host and of course, the counting did not begin on day one . . . but it was a part of American history for over a year. This ordeal was horrible as it truly signaled the world would never be the same. As I watched the presidential campaign in 1980, somewhere the religious leader of Iran indicated if Carter were re-elected, the hostages would die. It was at that moment, I realized our election was being influenced by non-Americans, and from the events that unfolded, I'd say heavily influenced. Although Carter is blamed for the break down of negotiations and Reagan is remembered as the the President who saved the hostages, the hostages were released on the day of Reagan's inauguration. Ronald Reagan had no negotiating power on behalf of America through the hostage situation, but he was the choice of the Ayatollah Khomeini.
I say this because, already, the history is being biased that President Reagan solved the hostage crisis. Actually President Reagan avoided the Middle East quite a bit, except of course for giving arms to Iran, which we all learned about in 1986, as it was termed "The Iran Contra Hearings." Oliver North took the blame for his commander-in-chief, then was exonerated or pardoned or something later, so we really don't have the factual actual account, other than to know Iran was provided with weapons through the Reagan administration.
Now, let's fast forward to another democratic President taking the heat for not being hard enough on Iran, with sanctions, etc. Here's an interesting little bit of history as well. Saddam Hussein stood between Iran and most of the rest of the world, but G.W. attacked his country, unprovoked, and ultimately even knowing it was bad intelligence, had Saddam Hussein murdered in a mock trial by his old political enemies. With the death of Hussein, the world lost it's buffer zone between Iranian leaders with attitude and the rest of the world.
I'm not a complete conspiracy theorist, because I'm seeing this more as prophecy fulfilled, rather than a bunch of guys plotting and planning together; knowing none of them are trustworthy. I am reminded, however; of a man that announced we were moving into a New World Order and interestingly is connected to both of these administrations that have served to allow Iran to gain power and prominence on the world stage. I still remember the day, President George Bush 41 spoke of the New World Order. I also remember him sitting there, as vice president, through the Iran Contra hearings while the President was clearly showing signs of the Alzheimer's that was already invading his abilities. We also know, this same man, was well connected to the 43rd President, operating on bad intelligence, starting wars. This same man is also the son of Prescott Bush, a Wall Street banker, later politician who was a director and shareholder of companies that profited from their involvement with the financial backers of Nazi Germany.
I do not see this as a conspiracy, but I certainly would like the record to show, the history that actually took place, rather than emotional memories based upon political partisanship. I have one of those examples, to share as well, and it also involves George H.W. Bush. He is the only person who was over the age of 5 in 1963 that claims he doesn't remember where he was when he learned President Kennedy had been shot. Now that is emotional information on my part, but the information about Iran needs to be kept in perspective. Iran has been gaining power since the Ayatollah Khomeini told America who could not be our President, and he got his way. America has also ended up with some interesting laws on the books that are referred to as Noahide, but are quite similar, at least in the punishment portion, to Sharia Law. Those were entered in 1991, by the same man who told us we were entering a New World Order.
For G-d hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of G-d shall be fulfilled. Prophecy of the Revelation

A Rose by Any Other Name . . .

We were promised hope and change, and we were given excuses. Now we have four years of forward . . . indicating the same direction. So does that mean four more years of excuses? I'm not so hopeful even of that, except the supporters making excuses for the people who received their votes. President Obama has been a difficult blog topic, because basically to disagree with him, is racism or intolerance, or something negative. I don't disagree with him any more than I disagreed with G.W., but now in retrospect, the G.W. years were a kinder, gentler America. Although the USA Patriot Act declared war on we the people, the majority of us were aware of that fact. Now, with gun control and mental health data sharing, the majority is either clueless, or obtuse. You could disagree with G.W., you could even make fun of him, and it was acceptable, but Barack Obama is off limits for bloggers and comedians, much less pundits, who are having to attack peripheral politics, to avoid receiving more detrimental labeling than they already are. What isn't same ole same ole is the name calling and bullying of business owners and individuals who don't happen to agree with the present agenda. There is no free speech if you disagree! Free speech doesn't have to be removed from the Bill of Rights, the argument against free speech, just has to be presented to be progress and taking the rights away of someone with whom you disagree, to be your patriotic intellectually superior duty. Congress doesn't have to make any laws regarding religion, because Congress is forbidden, besides Congress can't make any laws regarding their actual purpose for making laws, which is a lack of their own efficiency. A jury of public opinion is all it takes for fundamental secularists to name call and bully, and now they do!
I have realized this President has given the secular fundamentalists the same political power the other side gives the religious fundamentalists. All in all, it's still fundamental extremism. Opposite ends of the same spectrum. I don't agree with either, but I do think the religious funadamentalists have a more difficult time garnering a majority. I'd say the last two elections have proven that . . . Righteousness will not be found on either side of the aisle, because fundamental extremism from either direction; is not righteous, nor is it prudent.
Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Roe v. Wade

As we once again visit the moral dilemma of our culture, this anniversary is different. This is the fortieth year that abortion has been legal in our country. I've got a slightly different view than most of the divided religious-political stands, because I don't believe in doctors. I find it interesting that so many people of faith don't just take a real stand and boycott doctors, rather than politicians over this abortion issue. But that is for another day, today I want to talk about the real issue and the real alternative.
The women I know who are the most adamantly opposed to abortion, caught and or trapped their husbands with a baby on the way, a couple of generations ago, or were forced to go away and come back with no baby. This abortion argument really does seem to be based upon unresolved, personal issues for many.
I wanted to be a single mom. I'm not going into the reasons right now, but young and stupid are two of them. Considering the fact, I had the morals or lacked the morals to go ahead and fornicate, an abortion wouldn't have really been a moral dilemma, either, but I wanted a baby. That's where I was. I was a single teen-age mom back before the days of Bristol Palin. Those same people that didn't want anyone picking on her, have done a real about face since the 70's, I can assure you. In all this discussion about right and wrong, though, I'd like to address the real difference between right and righteous. Before there was "political correctness," there was "doing the right thing," and before that there was, "they're just good people," and years before that, there was conscience. I'm not talking about puritan legalism, I'm talking about believing in accountability, rather than public opinion. So how did we get to this horribly heated never ending debate that obviously isn't going away?
Now that we have had two full generations in which abortion was a legal availability, I'm sure we all know peers who have had them, as well as daughters or friends of daughters. I'd be willing to bet, the people who have had abortions, once they left the clinic, haven't received nearly the disrespect many single moms have received and still hear, even from the next generations. There has been such a disregard of the life and disprespect of others for so long, I don't think we as a nation can really wrap our mind around what it is to truly love, show compassion, or understanding for the decisions of another. I just don't see much evidence of anyone being taught to choose and truly appreciate life the way G-d intended it. He is, thankfully, so much more forgiving than humans.
Torah instruction stated the "unwed" mother was to be stoned to death. The baby would not have survived that, either. So what do we need to do? Making abortion illegal will just result in the increase of D&C's like they used to do in the 50's and 60's, before abortion was legal.
Did you know it was a Supreme Court Justice appointed by President Eisenhower that wrote up the decision on Roe v. Wade?
Did you know we had six years of a Conservative Congress, a Conservative White House, and seven out of nine justices on the Supreme Court appointed by Presidents with the letter R in their party?
That should be a clear indication, that abortion really isn't about saving babies, it's about keeping the people divided.
Did you know the year abortion became legal was the same year President Nixon's statesman finalized negotiations with China in some sort of trade agreement involving women from China? Incidentally, that was also the year Harbor Freight came to our shores.
A great man of G-d found himself in a situation of a baby on the way due to a "one night stand." I'm not sure how King David would have faired in American culture. He used his clout to have another man's wife, then when he couldn't get the innocent man to cover his tracks, he had him killed. He even had the man, himself, carry the orders to the front line. He then married the widow and after all that, the baby died, too. Yet King David was ultimately called a man after G-d's own heart. I've been in ministry nearly 20 years and my indescretion was nearly 40 years ago and I still am judged by it. G-d really does forgive. People, on the other hand . . .
If anti-choice individuals truly believe in an after life and in the innocence of the babies, I'm not sure forcing people to have children they don't want is the best solution. From what I read in the headlines, middle aged heterosexual couples are last in line to be able to adopt. Obviously after this many generations of self defined righteousness, making everyone that doesn't abstain get married, isn't going to happen.
It's time to face the fact, most of us are guilty of fornication at some time, and it would seem, judging others somehow eliminates some of our own guilt. I remember the interview with Ms. Lillian Carter back when her son was president. She said when she looked at her children, sometimes she thought she should have just stayed a virgin . . . I don't know the eternal spirtiual damage many of us have caused the next generations by our choices of indiscretion, but it's certainly enough of a concern for me to practice abstinence the rest of my days.
We are a nation of our own laws, from the inception and every generation alters and redefines those laws for their own convenience. Perhaps for those who seek a higher standard, it's just time to stop trusting life and death to the hands of humans, all together. If someone chooses to place their trust in the wisdom of man, the Biblical statutes aren't written for them anyway, and for those who want to stand on Scripture, stand on it with your own health!
I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: Torah of Holy Scripture

Did You Know?

Murder is already against the law. Anyone with a felony on their record is prohibited from gun ownership. What didn't used to be part of the equation was having health care as the arm of governmental enforcement. All these potential concerns by doctors and therapists and the Center for Disease Control has now officially ushered in "The Thought Police." Wonder how long it will be before anyone who's had a prescription for mood altering drugs or anti-depressants will go on the "no gun list . . ." How about us bloggers talking about "thought police?" I'm sure there is some sort of label for that besides just ordinary paranoia. This isn't going to help people who need help or protect anyone. The ones who might have sought help, will now be very hesitant to say anything.
As we become more and more trackable and obviously many are already tractable, what's next? Now that there will be so much more "oversight" as to households and invasion of privacy, how many middle aged men will have to give up hunting when their wife gets a prescription for "nerves" through menopause? I realize that sounds far fetched now, but . . . We have people literally and aggressively arguing to have their rights taken, or someone's, but ultimately when one loses a right, we all do. Anyone who truly believes this is going to stop mass murderers or stop at this level of banning really needs to get a grip on reality.
I'm no more impressed with President Obama's use of children as props as I was with Sarah Palin's. I did find in interesting that there was a hearing about gun laws December 17 on Capitol Hill. As this blog did a separate obituary, daily, for each victim of Sandy Hook Elementary, I discovered by following the updates, I have more questions than answers. I find three things very disconcerting about this horror and that is all the misinformation that has been reported, yet another divisive issue for the American public at large, and a number of new regulations based upon misinformation. That is troubling to me.
This president is divisive and it does seem intentional. I don't think it's racial, and I really don't think it's his evolution on gay marriage. The biggest crush I ever had in my life was a black gay man, and I still do not support our President. We're being divided, and half of us are screaming to lose rights, while the other half will be labeled. Perhaps, if we stopped arguing with each other for just a few minutes we could see that fact.
We are becoming a very untrusting society, for very good reason. We need to really look at what is happening. I read that there was a man in the woods that morning and he was an off duty, but armed, SWAT team officer from another community. So, if we lay down our weapons, and the guys with the badges and guns run the other way at the time of a dangerous crisis, then what? I'm not for conceal and carry, I think if someone is going to be armed, I'd just as soon see them in a holster. But I'm not against responsible members of society being able to make their own choices about the Second Amendment and how much trust we should have in our government. I don't have to trust someone to honor the regulation, I just have to know what's expected. If I had to make a list of who I would trust in a crisis or even a well guarded secret, the list would be very, very short, and would not include any politicians.
For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them. O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end! Torah of Holy Scripture

Dawn Lafferty Hochsprung

Dawn Lafferty Hochsprung, 47, of Woodbury, died December 14, as the result of the tragic events that unfolded at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown.

Beloved daughter, mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, she was a dedicated teacher who inspired her students to reach their fullest potential by instilling in them the importance of life-long learning. A fierce leader and educational activist, Ms Hochsprung was admired by her colleagues, students, and parents, particularly for her caring and nurturing nature. She often referred to her students as her “children” and wanted school to be a positive place and a safe haven.

A graduate of Naugatuck High School Class of 1983, Ms Hochsprung discovered the power of knowledge that led her to pursue a career in education. She received her bachelor’s degree in special education from Central Connecticut State University and her master’s degree in education from Southern Connecticut State University. She was currently enrolled at Russell Sage College in Troy, N.Y., pursuing her PhD. — a testament to her own personal mission to continue learning and lead by example.

Above all, she was extremely devoted to her family. There was nothing in the world she would not do to ensure that her family was happy and safe. She often credited her mother, Cheryl “Gee Gee” Lafferty for instilling in her the importance of family, and never taking them for granted.

Her husband George Hochsprung; her mother Cheryl Lafferty; two daughters, Cristina Lafferty Hassinger and Erica Lafferty; a brother Daniel Lafferty; three grandsons and a granddaughter; three step-daughters, Anne Priest, Amy Lawton, and Beth Ewaskiewicz; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins survive Ms Hochsprung. Her father, William Lafferty, died in 2004.

Calling hours will take place Wednesday, December 19, from 3 to 8 pm, at the Woodbury Funeral Home of Munson-Lovetere, 2 School Street, Woodbury. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dawn Lafferty – Hochsprung Memorial Fund, Waterbury Connecticut Federal Teacher’s Union, PO Box 2121, Waterbury, CT 06722.

To place an on-line condolence, please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com .


The Newtown Bee Posted December 16, 2012

This is Dawn's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Mary J. Greene Sherlach

Mary J. Greene Sherlach, 56, beloved wife of William Sherlach of Trumbull, died December 14, in Sandy Hook Elementary School. Born in Endicott, N.Y., February 11, 1956, she was a daughter of the late Jack and Annetta [NC1] Corgiat Greene.

Always interested in helping others, Ms Sherlach received a bachelor's degree in psychology from SUNY Cortland and a master's degree from Southern Connecticut State University.

She started her career working in psychiatric facilities in New York. Her work as a school psychologist began in North Haven and Redding. In 1994 she started her work at Sandy Hook Elementary School, doing what she termed “God's work” by helping children who needed her the most.

Ms Sherlach is remembered as a loving wife and mother, and a caring soul who was always there to lend an ear or a shoulder to someone in need.

In addition to her husband of 31years, she leaves two loving daughters, Maura Lynn Schwartz and her husband, Eric, of New Jersey and Katy S. Sherlach of Virginia; two brothers, Joseph Greene and his wife, Kelty, of Colo. and Dennis Greene of Fla.; two sisters, Jane Dougherty and her husband, Timothy, and Suzanne Connors and her husband, Dale, all of Colo.

Friends are invited to meet directly in St Stephen Church, 6948 Main Street, Trumbull, Friday, December 21, at 11 am, for a memorial Mass. Committal will be private. Friends may greet the family Thursday, December 20, from 4 to 8 pm, in The Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fairfield County Community Foundation, Fund for Health and Wellness, 383 Main Avenue, Norwalk CT 06851 to continue her work with children and mental health.

To light a virtual candle, visit www.abriola.com.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Mary's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Victoria Leigh Soto

Victoria “Vicki” Leigh Soto, 27, of Stratford, cherished daughter of Carlos and Donna (Fagan) Soto, and beloved sister of Jillian, Carlee, and Carlos Matthew Soto, died December 14, in Sandy Hook, Connecticut.

Born November 4, 1985, In Bridgeport, she was a lifelong Stratford resident. Ms Soto was a graduate of Stratford High School Class of 2003, and Eastern Connecticut State University, where she graduated with high honors, earning degrees in both education and history. She was currently attending Southern Connecticut State University, to complete her master’s degree.

She was in her fifth year of teaching at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. Teaching was her passion, following in the footsteps of her beloved Aunt Debbie, and her dream since she was three years old. Molding young minds was her priority, but being the ‘fun’ teacher, was what she was all about. The children she taught at Sandy Hook Elementary were a huge part of her life.

Ms Soto was equally passionate about her family, which was the most important part of her life, especially her siblings, sisters, Jillian whom she loved unconditionally, and Carlee in whom she instilled the importance of higher education, and her brother Carlos Matthew who looked up to his big sister with pride. She was not only a role model to her sisters and brother, but to everyone she met. Her family and friends know that she was an amazing young woman, who died a hero.

Some of her favorite things include flamingoes, of which you can never have to many (whenever we saw one, her family thought of her), the New York Yankees #11, and, most importantly, Christmas, as she was the only one allowed to pick out the tree and put up the lights.

Her friends were also such a big part of her life, especially her best friend and confidant Rachel Schiavone, whom she loved dearly. Ms Soto also leaves behind her loving dog, Roxie, who waited for her to come home everyday, and is still waiting, lost without her.

Her extended family was also a huge part of her life. In addition to her beloved parents and siblings, she is survived by her grandparents, “Pop Pop” Donald Fagan of Bridgeport, and Jose and Marta Soto of Cleveland, Tenn.; her aunt and godmother Debbie Cronk, and her husband, Uncle Robbie Cronk, and their children, Heather Rose, Brianne Elizabeth, and Wesley Fagan Cronk; her uncle and godfather Dean Fagan and his wife, Denise, and their children, Alex Gerard and her favorite buddy, Zachary Jan Fagan. “SOFACRO forever!”

She is also survived by her uncle Don Fagan and his wife, Linda, and their children, Don and wife, Jennifer, Christopher and fiancée, Sarah, their children Natalie, Christopher, and Doug Fagan. She was predeceased by her maternal grandmother Janice Biebel Fagan.

“Vicki was truly an amazing daughter, sister, cousin, teacher, and friend, and died protecting ‘her kids.’ We couldn't be prouder of our HERO.”

Funeral services will take place Wednesday, December 19, at 10 am, DIRECTLY in Lordship Community Church, 190 Prospect Drive, Stratford CT 06615. Interment will be in Union Cemetery, Stratford. Friends may call Tuesday, December 18, from 3 to 8 pm, in the Adzima Funeral Home, 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford.

The family has requested in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the Victoria L. Soto Memorial Fund for Education, through the fFuneral home.

To make an on-line condolence, please visit www.adzimafuneralhome.com .

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Victoria's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Lauren Gabrielle Rousseau

Lauren Gabrielle Rousseau, 30, of Danbury, precious daughter of Gilles and Teresa Rousseau, died December 14, with the other innocent victims of the mass violence at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. She was born in Danbury Hospital, June 8, 1982.

She leaves her disbelieving immediate family Teresa Rousseau and Bill Leukhardt of Danbury and Gilles and Joyce Rousseau of Southbury; and siblings Matthew Rousseau of Brooklyn, N.Y., Andrew Rousseau of Danbury, Nathaniel Leukhardt of Waterbury, Emily Leukhardt of Bristol, and Andrew Leukhardt of Providence, R.I. Other survivors include grandparents Evelyn Martin of Landisville, Penn., and Virginia and Charles A. Powers Jr. of Hyannis Port, Mass.; and several dozen aunts, uncles, and cousins in Quebec, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Colorado, Massachusetts, and Minnesota.

She is also mourned by Anthony Lusardi III of Cortlandt Manor, N.Y., the love of her life.

Ms Rousseau was known for her exuberance for life, love of family, her friendliness, kindness, and loyalty, and her ever-present smile.

She was a kindergartner at Hayestown Avenue School, then attended Roberts Avenue School, Broadview Middle School, and Danbury High School, where her greatest joys were singing and dancing in the yearly musical and teaching in the school-based nursery school.

She graduated from the University of Connecticut at Storrs in 2004 with a degree in English and psychology, and she earned a master's degree in elementary education from the University of Bridgeport.

She did her year-long teaching internship at Roberts Avenue School, some of it in the same classroom where she had been a first-grader.

She did her student teaching at John Pettibone School in New Milford, and later worked as a substitute teacher in Danbury, New Milford, and Newtown.

She was hired as a permanent substitute teacher at Sandy Hook Elementary only weeks before her death.

From her college years on, she worked in catering at Fox Hill Inn in Brookfield, and during the past few years she also worked at the Starbucks coffee shop at Exit 1 in Danbury.

Family, friends and co-workers are invited to calling hours Thursday, December 20, at 10 am, at First Congregational Church, 164 Deer Hill Avenue, Danbury, followed by a memorial service at 11 am.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Lauren's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Anne Marie Murphy

Anne Marie Murphy, 52, a 14-year resident of Sandy Hook, formerly of Katonah, N.Y., died December 14, at the Sandy Hook School tragedy. She was born July 25, 1960, in Mount Kisco, N.Y., the daughter of Dr Hugh and Alice McGowan of Katonah.

She graduated from St Mary’s School in Katonah, John F. Kennedy High School in Somers, N.Y. and Southern Connecticut State University with an MS degree in education. Ms Murphy was employed by the Newtown Board of Education as a teacher at the Sandy Hook Elementary School.

She will be remembered for her love of the arts, walks in the outdoors, and most importantly: her family.

In addition to her beloved parents, she is survived by her devoted husband, Michael; her loving children Kelly, Colleen, Paige, and Thomas; and dear siblings Alice of Newtown, Mary Pat of Ridgefield, Catherine of Katonah, Hugh of Pawling, N.Y., Dr Thomas of Somers, N.Y., and Peter of Troy, N.Y.

The family will receive friends at Clark Associates Funeral Home, 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah, N.Y., Wednesday, December 19, from 4 to 8 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am, Thursday, December 20, at St Mary Of The Assumption Roman Catholic Church, 117 Valley Road, Katonah, N.Y.

Burial will follow at St Joseph’s Cemetery, Somers, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Autism Speaks, 1060 State Road, 2nd Floor, Princeton NJ 08540, or at www.autismspeaks.org .

The Newtown Bee Posted December 17, 2012

Mrs. Murphy's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Rachel Davino

Rachel Davino, 29, died December 14, at Sandy Hook Elementary School. She was born July 17, 1983.

Calling hours are at the Woodbury Funeral Home of Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, 2 School Street, Woodbury, Thursday, December 20, from 4 to 8 pm.

Funeral services will take place Friday, December 21, at 11 am, at the Church of the Nativity on East Street, Bethlehem. Burial will be at the Mt Olivet Cemetery, Watertown.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 19, 2012

This is Rachel's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Solutions

The victims who lost their lives at the Sandy Hook Elementary School have all been laid to rest for a time now, but even the most stoic of families are facing the prospect of navigating through life under a very heavy spirit of grief now, and for some time to come. Most of these families have other young children who must also grieve and be comforted. I will begin posting the obituaries of the six women who lost their lives attempting to protect the children.
As our nation looks for solutions to this tragedy and others like it, I pray we realize humanity is no match for evil. Our political system can't even keep the legislators honest, much less craft laws against evil. Murder is already illegal and mental health labels already abound. The gunman in this case had no criminal record. Everyone who is bullied or a concern of that nature does not commit murder at school. Labeling the potential victims of bullying will only stop those kids from reporting problems and seeking help.
More gun control, although I personally see no reason for semi-automatic weapons, I can also see that more gun control will only control the guns in the hands of responsible, law abiding citizens. Responsible, law abiding citizens do not murder women and children. I don't know what's coming our way, but until we step back and take an honest look at how little we can actually change by the "wisdom of man" we are not going to make any progress.
More guns is not the answer and neither are fewer, but that's the new ploy to divide the nation further and distract us. Scripture says it is truth that sets us free. I'm struggling with a great deal of the information that has been reported about this incident and I simply do not believe we have the truth of the matter. I don't know what that truth is, but the reports do not align.
As for more mental health programs, we need to keep in mind, the shooter at Ft. Hood was the base psychiatrist, so who knows how reliable any of his assessments were, before he went on his rampage!
Evil is a spiritual matter, not a legal matter and not a psychological matter, it's a matter of the heart, a condition of the spirit. To get to the heart of the matter, we must stop ignoring the fact that humans have a spiritual component. When we ignore that fact, we react emotionally, rather than logically, and we don't even see the misinformation we are trying to process. We simply react!
I'm not suggesting the prayer in school argument at all. I've already experienced enough conflicting religious and non-religious information that I wouldn't want my kids trying to figure that out, either. My beliefs are Bible based and I don't expect everyone to accommodate my beliefs, but most belief systems do address the spiritual need to do right or atone for wrong actions. My issue is the fact that the 1962 Supreme Court ruling said, we will no longer consider a spiritual element for our kids, it's all ego, emotions, esteem, and intellect. That is what opened the door for school discipline issues and the need for school psychologists. Behavior is spiritual and we cannot ignore that regardless of belief systems, we all have a spirit. Training and programing only works in Pavlov's experiment and with rewards . . .
We've been led to believe for years that foreign dictatorships keep their populace from receiving information. We've been told their news is filtered and censored.
I have realized in all the conflicting reports of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School, there is a more dangerous way to handle information, than keeping it from the public. To report misinformation, conflicting stories, and official confusion actually keeps the public in a state of division, panic, fear, and even aggression.
Come now, and let us reason together, says YHWH: though your sins be as scarlet . . .

Josephine Grace Gay

Josephine Grace Gay, 7, born December 11, 2005, of Sandy Hook, died December 14, surrounded by many dear friends and teachers. She lived seven years, inspiring friends and family with her beautiful smile, loving heart, and playful spirit.

Her parents, Michele and Bob Gay; and sisters, Sophia and Marie Gay, live on to honor her life with her maternal grandmother, Katherine Hartman; paternal grandfather, Robert Gay; paternal grandmother, Louise Gay; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and beloved friends. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Robert Hartman.

Josephine’s memorial services will be held at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown, starting with her wake from 4 to 7 pm, Friday, December 21. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St Rose’s Church Saturday, December 22, at 11 am. Burial will be at a later date and will be private.

Josephine was known for her love of all things purple, so we request that friends and family wear purple in her honor. Many friends and family describe Josephine as “a gift.” In celebration of her joyful and giving spirit, a charitable fund is being created in her honor. Information about this fund and her life will be released shortly.

Hull Funeral Service, Danbury, is handling arrangements. On-line condolences may be made at Hullfuneralservice.com .

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Josephine's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee.

Jesse McCord Lewis

Jesse McCord Lewis, 6, was an amazing child, full of light and love that was unmistakable in his presence. He was born June 30, 2006. Jesse died December 14, in Sandy Hook Elementary School.

He brought joy to the world with his infectious and radiant smile. He was smart and compassionate beyond his years. Jesse died bravely trying to lead other children to safety. He ran into the hallway to help when he heard the shots. His family knows in their hearts that was the way he lived his life – fearless, full of courage and strength.

Family and friends take comfort in knowing what a brave child he was. His actions were consistent with the way he lived his life; passionately embracing everything, a perfect combination of courage and faith, like a little soldier, his favorite toy. The love they shared was abundant and all encompassing. He slept in his mother’s arms almost every night of his precious life, with her thanking God for him.

Jesse left an indelible mark on the hearts of all he met. The picture that remains etched in family’s souls is one of him in his boots, no socks, ripped jeans, and a t-shirt, an army helmet strapped to his head, a smudge of dirt on his cheek, tromping through the pasture on his way from one adventure to another.

Jesse is continuously loved by his dear, precious older brother, JT, who was and will always be his loyal protector, who looked after him with tender care and devotion.

It is and will remain forever unbelievable to all who knew him that Jesse is with Jesus now and blessing those in heaven.

His mother, Scarlett Lewis; his brother, JT Lewis; his father, Neil Heslin; his grandparents, Maureen Lewis, Bob Comfort, and David Lewis; his uncles, aunts, and cousins, Trent, Sasha, and Hayden Lewis, Jordan, Becky, Christian, and Everett Lewis, Coulter, Kristy, and Quinn Lewis; and as many dear friends as the stars survive Jesse.

“God’s love is triumphant.”

Friends may call at the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, Thursday, December 19, from 9 am to noon. All other services and interment in Zoar Cemetery, Sandy Hook, are private.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Voice for Joanie Inc, 5 Glenwood Road, New Milford CT 06776 or at voiceforjoanie.org .

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Jesse's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Emilie Alice Parker

Emilie Alice Parker was a beautiful person. She came into this world May 12, 2006. She was tragically taken from us December 14, only 6 years later. Despite her short time here on earth, her life was full. Full of love, full of compassion, full of charity, full of enthusiasm, full of joy, and full of gifts given to her by Heavenly Father that she shared with everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.

Emilie was quick to strike up a conversation, with anyone, anywhere. She could always be found with her markers, colored pens and paper, because as she put it, “I have so many ideas of things to draw and it is hard to remember them all.” She also expressed her artistic abilities in her paintings, ceramics, and fashion, as she always wanted to be fancy.

Emilie loved to read. She loved to read stories, not only with her mom and dad, but also she could often be found with her sisters, Madeline and Samantha, dressed in costumes, reading stories with them. Her sisters looked up to her and sought her out for comfort when they needed it. Emilie always wanted to help people feel better. Her compassion and charity was exemplified by her hugs, the cards she would make, and her statements that, “I wish everybody could just be happy.”

“She was our princess here on earth, and now her angel up in heaven. May her life and example continue to live on in all of us.” — Her loving parents, Robbie and Alyssa.

The family will receive friends at Myers Mortuary, 845 Washington Boulevard, Ogden, Utah, Friday, December 21, from 5 to 8 pm. Services will be held at the Rock Cliff Stake Center, 1000 Suncrest Drive, Ogden, Utah, Saturday, December 22, at 10 am.

Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home, 9-11 Granville Avenue, Danbury, is in charge of arrangements.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 19, 2012

This is Emilie's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Chase Michael Anthony Kowalski

Chase Michael Anthony Kowalski, 7, died December 14, in Sandy Hook Elementary School. He was born October 31, 2005.

The family of Chase sends their prayers and thoughts to all of the families involved with this horrific event. “We are thankful to the Lord for giving us seven years with our beautiful loving son. It is with heavy hearts that we return him to our Lord but know he is among our family and friends that have preceded him to heaven. We appreciate all of the love and support that has been extended to us.”

Chase was an amazing son, brother, and grandson whose heart was only filled with love for all the people he touched. He was a fun-loving energetic boy that had a true love of life. He completed his first triathlon at the age of six and ran in many community road races. Chase had a deep love for the game of baseball and enjoyed practicing with his father and team mates.

Joining the Cub Scouts was just one of his many interests. He could often be found in the yard playing ball, riding his bike or quad. Chase was always excited to attend the kids work shop at the Trumbull Home Depot.

He was greatly loved by his family. He joins his maternal uncle and grandfather, and his paternal great-grandmother and grandmother in a much better place.

His family will receive friends at the Spadaccino and Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, Wednesday, December 19, from 2 to 6 pm, with prayer vigils being held throughout the afternoon.

Chase’s family would like to request the public visitation end at 5:45 pm, to allow them a brief period of privacy.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Chase Kowalski Scholarship Fund, c/o Peoples Bank, 470 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe CT 06468.

To leave an on-line condolence please visit www.spadaccinofuneralhome.com .

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Chase's obituary as it appeared in the Newtown Bee. The link above remains active.

Ana Grace Marquez-Greene

Ana Grace Marquez-Greene, 6, born April 4, 2006, died December 14, one of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

Ana is survived by her father, Jimmy Greene, a jazz saxophonist and an assistant professor of music at Western Connecticut State University. Her mother, Nelba Marquez-Greene is program coordinator for the Family Therapy Institute at Klingberg Family Centers and Central Connecticut State University adjunct faculty. Her brother Isaiah is a happy, intelligent, and musical boy who loves hockey and very much misses his sister. She will be missed dearly by her grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and scores of friends.

Ana’s love for singing was evident before she was able to talk. Her gift for melody, pitch, and rhythm stood out. She never walked; her mode of transportation was dance, from room to room and place to place. She danced to all the music she heard, in the air or in her head.

Ana loved her God, loved to read the Bible, and loved to sing and dance as acts of worship.

Nelba Marquez Green said she hopes the tragedy of the school shooting will bring a greater awareness to mental health issues and to reduce the stigma attached to those with mental illness, perhaps preventing tragedies like the one that took Ana’s life. The family asks prayers for the legions of people left behind to cherish Ana’s memory.

A Homegoing Celebration for Ana will begin at noon, Saturday, December 22, at First Cathedral, 1151 Blue Hills Avenue, Bloomfield, Conn. Visitation will be from 10 am to noon, Saturday. Burial will be private. These events are for friends and family only.

Memorial donations may be made to The Ana Grace Marquez-Greene Therapy Fund, c/o Outpatient Clinic/Family Therapy Institute, Klingberg Family Centers, 370 Linwood Street, New Britain CT 06052, or The Artists’ Collective, 1200 Albany Avenue, Hartford CT 06112, or The Ana Grace Marquez-Green Scholarship Fund, c/o Western Connecticut State University, Office of Institutional Advancement, 181 White Street, Danbury CT 06810. A fund to support the family has been set up at www.Anagracefund.com.

Direct cards c/o WCSU, Department of Music, 181 White Street, Danbury CT or Klingberg Family Centers.

On-line condolences may be made at www.carmonfuneralhome.com .

The Newtown Bee Posted December 20, 2012

This is Ana's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Benjamin Andrew Wheeler

Benjamin Andrew Wheeler was born in Manhattan, September 12, 2006, and moved to Newtown in April 2007 with his parents, Francine and David Wheeler, and his now 9-year-old brother, Nate.

Ben died December 14.

Inspired by dear friends who had made the move some years before, the family found a house in Sandy Hook and a cultural, spiritual, and creative home in the rare collection of priorities and spirit that is Newtown. Since then, Francine has become a fixture in Newtown as a music educator and performer, and more broadly, as a founding member of the children's music group, The Dream Jam Band, while David works as an illustrator and designer. Both of them are members of Newtown's own Flagpole Radio Cafe live radio show.

Ben was an irrepressibly bright and spirited boy whose love of fun and excitement at the wonders of life and the world could rarely be contained. His rush to experience life was headlong, creative, and immediate.

He was a devoted fan of his older brother, Nate, and the two of them together filled the house with the noise of four children. He loved the local soccer program, often running across the field long after it was actually necessary, but always smiling and laughing as he moved the ball, nearly always at full tilt. He was becoming a strong swimmer and loved his lessons.

Eager to learn, he could not wait to get to school to see his teacher and his growing group of new first grade friends. Ben was also a member of Tiger Scout Den 6, which met at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse.

Earlier in December, Ben performed at his piano recital, and sitting still long enough to play one piece was an accomplishment he reveled in. He loved The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens.

In a conversation with Francine before school on Friday, he said, “I still want to be an architect, but I also want to be a paleontologist, because that’s what Nate is going to be and I want to do everything Nate does.”

The Newtown Bee Posted December 17, 2012

This is Benjamin's obituary is it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Grace Audrey McDonnell

Grace Audrey McDonnell, 7, born on November 4, 2005, beloved and cherished daughter of Christopher and Lynn Zapf McDonnell of Sandy Hook, died tragically on December 14, in the Sandy Hook Elementary School.

A beautiful and artistic soul, Grace was truly a gift from God and represented all that is good in this world. She was passionate about painting, and she loved the beach. Grace’s dream was to become a painter and live on Martha’s Vineyard.

In addition to her parents, Grace is survived by her big brother Jack Sheridan McDonnell of Sandy Hook; maternal grandparents Frederick and Sheila Dunn Zapf of Stony Brook, N.Y.; paternal grandmother Mary Ann Gorbutt McDonnell of Shelton; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Grace was predeceased by her paternal grandfather Lawrence P. McDonnell and her namesake, maternal great-grandmother Audrey Dunn Franz.

Family and friends may call may call Thursday, December 20, from 2 to 5 pm, at the St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, December 21, at 11 am, in St Rose of Lima Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider making a donation to the Grace Memorial Fund at the Fairfield County Community Foundation. If you choose to do so, please make your check payable to “Grace McDonnell Memorial Fund at FCCF” and mail it to Fairfield County Community Foundation, 383 Main Avenue, Norwalk CT 06851.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Grace's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee.

Daniel Gerard Barden

Daniel Gerard Barden, 7, of Sandy Hook, born September 27, 2005, in Pawling, N.Y., cherished son of Jacqueline and Mark, beloved brother of James and Natalie, left the physical world too soon, on December 14.

Daniel was the light of his family’s life. Adored and admired by all, Daniel touched the lives of all who knew him with his warmth, inspiring spirit of kindness, and generosity, outgoing and affectionate nature, and his imaginative play.

He loved spending time with his family, both immediate and extended, riding waves at the beach, playing the drums in a band with his brother James and sister Natalie, foosball, reading, and making s’mores around the bonfire with his cousins at his “Papa’s” house in Smallwood, N.Y. Daniel was on the Newtown soccer team and the Newtown Torpedoes swim team.

In addition to his immediate family, Daniel is survived by his grandmother Anne Barden of Yonkers, N.Y. and grandfather Martin Giblin of Smallwood, N.Y. Daniel leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him immensely: Rosaleen Giblin Murchison and husband, Peter, of Ridgefield, and their children Cristen, John, Michael, and Matthew and his wife, Lizzie; Martin Giblin of Bronxville, N.Y.; Michael Giblin of Frederick, Md. and his daughters Laura, Madeline, Jackie Pickett and husband, Duane, and their children Mariah and Neil, and Corrinne Downs and husband, Kenny, and their children Audrey and Leah; Madeline Giblin O’Neill and husband, Michael, and their daughter, Lauren, of Ridgefield; James Giblin of the Bronx, N.Y.; Donald Giblin and wife, Cathy, and their children Gerard, Jamie, and Catherine of Yorktown Heights, N.Y.; Kathleen Giblin of Rhinebeck, N.Y.; Christine Giblin Risoli and husband, Matthew, and their children Michael and Jane of Newtown; James Barden of New York, N.Y.; Timothy Barden and wife, Mary, and their daughter Anna of Portland, Maine; and Carl Barden of Deland, Fla. Daniel was preceded in death by his grandmother Madeline Giblin; grandfather James Barden, Sr; and uncle Gerard Paul Giblin.

A celebration of Daniel’s life will begin with a wake, Tuesday, December 18, from 5 to 8 pm, at St Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 46 Church Street, Newtown. A funeral will follow Wednesday, December 19, at 10am, at St Rose.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Daniel’s name to the Sandy Hook School Support Fund, c/o Newtown Savings Bank, 39 Main Street, Newtown CT 06470, or checks may be dropped off at any Newtown Savings Bank branch location. To donate on-line, go to http://newtown.uwwesternct.org .

On-line condolences for the family may be expressed at http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/guestbook.aspx?n=daniel-barden&pid=16172598/.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 16, 2012

Although I did not find this link to still be active, I was able to obtain through the connection, a guestbook for Daniel indicating it will remain online permanently. This is as his obituary appeared in The Newtown Bee

Allison N. Wyatt

Allison Wyatt, daughter of Cheyanne and Ben Wyatt, Sandy Hook, was a kind-hearted little girl who had a lot of love to give, and she formed special bonds with most people who spent any amount of time with her.

She loved her family and teachers especially, but would often surprise people with random acts of kindness, once even offering her snacks to a complete stranger on a plane.

Allison loved drawing and wanted to be an artist, often turning parts of the house into an “art studio” with rows of pictures taped to the walls. She loved to laugh and was developing her own wonderful sense of humor that ranged from just being a silly six-year old to coming up with observations that more than once had us crying with laughter.

Allison made the world a better place for six, far too short years, and family and friends now have to figure out how to move on without her.

She was a sweet, creative, funny, intelligent little girl who had an amazing life ahead of her. “Our world is a lot darker now that she’s gone. We love and miss her so much.”

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Allison's obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

Caroline Phoebe Previdi

Caroline Phoebe Previdi, 6, daughter of Jeffrey and Sandy Johnson Previdi and sister of Walker, from Sandy Hook, died Friday, December 14, in the shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School. Caroline was born in Danbury, September 9, 2006.

She was a first grade student at the school and a lifetime resident of Sandy Hook. Caroline was a member of St Rose of Lima Church in Newtown. Caroline loved to draw and dance. Her smile brought happiness to everyone she touched.

In addition to her parents and Walker, her maternal grandparents: Roger and Patsy Johnson of Asheville, N.C.; her paternal grandparents Gene and Joy Previdi, Jr of Newtown; her aunts and uncles, Helen Previdi, Fairfield, Gene and Lindsay Previdi, III, Newtown, Chet and Stephanie Graham, Chattanooga, Tenn.; and cousins CJ, Pearson, Ches, and Cole survive Caroline.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, December 19, at noon, at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown. Interment will be private. There are no calling hours.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Green Funeral Home, 57 Main Street, Danbury.

Contributions in Caroline's memory may be made to The Toy Chest, c/o St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown CT 06470.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 18, 2012

This is Caroline's obiturary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee

James Radley Mattioli

“Our Beloved Prince,” James Radley Mattioli, 6 ¾, fondly called “J,” died December 14, in his classroom at Sandy Hook Elementary School. He was born March 22, 2006, in Bridgeport.

An energetic, loving friend to all, James loved baseball, basketball, swimming, arm wrestling, and playing games on the iPad (especially the lawn mowing game). He loved to wear shorts and t-shirts in any weather, and grab the gel to spike his hair. He would often sing at the top of his lungs and once asked, "How old do I have to be to sing on a stage?"

James loved to dive off the diving board at the Treadwell Pool, swim like a fish in both of his grandparents’ pools and ride his bike, proudly without training wheels. He often said, “I need to go outside Mom, I need fresh air.” He spent endless hours playing hockey with his best bud and cousin, George.

He loved and admired his big sister and wanted to do everything that she could do. They were the best of friends, going to school together, playing games together, and making endless drawings and crafts together. James was working very hard to advance his reading in first grade and his sister Anna was his endless partner in supporting this effort and challenging him to read more and more difficult words.

James was born four weeks early at Bridgeport Hospital. It was an ongoing quip that James came into the world early because he was hungry. He loved hamburgers with ketchup, his Dad’s egg omelets with bacon, and his Mom’s French toast. He often asked to stop at Subway for dinner for a ham sandwich, and wanted to know how old he needed to be to order a footlong sandwich.

James was an early-riser, always the first to wake the family up, ready to start the day and get dressed. He loved to cuddle on the couch at the end of the day with his Mom, grabbing his pillow and brown fleece blanket. He adored spending time with his Dad doing yard work, walking at Fairfield Hills, and watching him grill burgers on the deck. If Dad was outside, James wanted to be right there with him. Their love of one another was one of a kind, and James was his Dad’s mini look-a-like.

James was especially thoughtful and considerate, always the first to welcome guests at the backdoor with a hug and his contagious smile. Recently he chose to forgo a gift for himself, and decided to use that money to purchase a mug for his Grandfather for Christmas instead.

James loved all teachers and staff at Trinity Day School and Sandy Hook Elementary School and found special joy in math and recess. He was a “numbers” guy, coming up with insights beyond his years to explain the relationship between numbers and unique ways of figuring out the answer when adding or subtracting. He loved the concept of googleplex, which he learned from his good friend, Christopher.

James will be incredibly missed by all who loved him: his parents Mark and Cindy Mattioli; his beloved sister Anna; grandparents Jack and Kathy Radley of Sherrill, N.Y. and John and Angelina Mattioli of Stamford; aunts and uncles Mark and Lynn (Mattioli) Forrest of Stamford, Raymond and Susan (Mattioli) Higgins of Mahopac, N.Y., Laurie (Doyle) Mattioli of Arlington, Mass., Trevor and Stephanie (Radley) Bonat of Concord, N.H., Nicholas and Melissa (Radley) Guarracino of Oxford, Marybeth Radley of Washington DC, and Marcus Radley of Hartford; cousins Lexi, Dana, Chelsea, Angelina, Juliana, Sophia, Lucy, George, Jane, Charlotte, and Stryker. His beloved uncle, John R. Mattioli, Jr predeceased James.

The Mattioli family will receive friends at the Spadaccino and Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, Monday, December 17, between 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown, at 10am, Tuesday, December 18, with burial to follow at St John's Roman Catholic Cemetery in Darien.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in James’ memory to the James R. Mattioli Memorial Fund, c/o Newtown Savings Bank, 39 Main Street, Newtown CT 06470.

To leave an on-line condolence please visit www.spadaccinofuneralhome.com .

The Newtown Bee Posted December 17, 2012

James' obituary as it appeared in The Newtown Bee.

Olivia Rose Engel

Olivia Rose Engel, 6, left Sandy Hook Elementary School and joined the angels in Heaven, December 14. Born July 18, 2006, at Danbury Hospital to Shannon (Merlino) and Brian Engel, Olivia brought immediate joy to all those around her with her ever-present smile and adorably infectious giggle.

Quickly growing from a happy, bouncing baby who clung tightly to her stuffed lamb into an enthusiastic, loving little girl who always wanted to do and see more, Olivia’s zest for life began early. With help from her adoring parents, she quickly developed an affinity for all things fun. On any given afternoon, one could just as easily find Olivia twirling in a pink tutu in dance class, developing her swing on the tennis court, kicking the winning soccer goal, drawing, painting, and gluing things in art class, or honing her inner songstress in her community musical theater class.

The budding swimmer also loved to join her dad or grandpa on their boats, so she could explore the world from the water.

As Olivia continued to grow, she developed a love and affinity for math and reading, arts and crafts, and her parish. Participating in her church’s CCD program and leading the family’s Grace each evening were sources of great pride for Olivia, as was being a big sister. Ever patient, Olivia took joy in helping her three-year-old brother Brayden explore the world she’d grown to love. This smart, bubbly NY Yankee fan and Daisy Girl Scout would instantly light up a room with her humor, charm, and wit. She was a sweet and appreciative six-year-old with a lot to live for. Her physical loss will deeply be felt every day by those who loved her most, but her sparkly spirit will live on forever.

Her parents and brother; maternal uncle JR Merlino; grandmother Suanne Merlino; great-grandmother Esther Galligan; paternal grandparents Christine and Richard Engel; and countless aunts, cousins, and close friends survive Olivia. She has joined her maternal grandfather, Jeffery Merlino, in Heaven.

Olivia's wake takes place Thursday, December 20, from 4 to 7 pm, at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, with her funeral Mass occurring Friday, December 21, at 1 pm, at St Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Olivia’s honor can be directed to the Newtown Park and Bark at newtownparkandbark.org .

The Newtown Bee December 21, 2012

The victims have all been laid to rest, but each obituary will appear individually here, as they appeared in The Newtown Bee.

Avielle Rose Richman

Avielle Rose Richman, 6, daughter of Jennifer Hensel and Jeremy Richman of Newtown, died December 14 at Sandy Hook Elementary School. She was born October 17, 2006, in San Diego, Calif., and she moved to Connecticut with her parents in 2011.

Avie was a first grader at Sandy Hook. She was born with a spitfire personality, which continued as she grew into a lover and teller of stories. She offered her heart to everyone. With an infectious smile and peals of laughter, people were drawn to her beautiful spirit, which will live on in all of our hearts.

Her passions and joys were her friends, music, horseback riding, archery, kung fu, swimming, ice skating, and participating in super hero adventures.

Avielle is survived by a large community of friends and family who love her.

Memorial services are private. The family is making arrangements for a memorial fund for those who wish to contribute.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 17, 2012

As her obituary appeared in The Newtown Bee.

We continue to pray for comfort as the families struggle through this time of grief, and we grieve for them.

Dylan Christopher Jack Hockley

Dylan Christopher Jack Hockley, 6, beloved and cherished son of Ian Thomas and Nicole Marie (Moretti) Hockley of Sandy Hook, died tragically, December 14, with his friends, classmates, and teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Dylan was born in Winchester, England, March 8, 2006.

In addition to his parents, his brother Jake Alexander Hockley of Sandy Hook; maternal grandparents Henry and Theresa (Gobidas) Moretti of Cranston, R.I.; paternal grandparents Thomas and Ivy (Dawn) Hockley of Eastrea, England; and uncles Kevin Hockley of Peterborough, England and Gary Hockley of Chicago, Ill. survive Dylan.

A public memorial service is planned for Friday, December 21, at 1 pm, in the Walnut Hill Community Church, 156 Walnut Hill Road, Bethel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dylan Hockley Memorial Fund, 34 Charter Ridge Road, Sandy Hook CT, 06482.

The Honan Funeral home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, is in care of arrangements.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 16, 2012

This photograph is all that has been added to his obituary as it appeared in the Newtown Bee

Madeleine F. Hsu

Madeleine F. Hsu
The family of Madeleine F. Hsu, 6, has requested privacy.

Madeleine was born July 10, 2006. She died December 14, in Sandy Hook Elementary School.
The Newtown Bee Posted December 20, 2012

I'm sorry we don't know more about this beautiful little girl, but this is what her family has expressed, at this time. This is her obituary is as it appeared in the Newtown Bee.

Charlotte Helen Bacon

Charlotte Helen Bacon, 6, was the beloved daughter of Joel and JoAnn Bacon, and sister of Guy Bacon. She died tragically December 14, with her friends and classmates at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Charlotte was an extraordinarily gifted 6-year-old who filled her family each day with joy and love. The family will forever remember her beautiful smile, her energy for life, and the unique way she expressed her individuality, usually with the color pink. Charlotte never met an animal she didn’t love, and since the age of 2 wanted to be a veterinarian. She also enjoyed practicing Tae Kwon Do weekly with her dad and brother, where she relished kicking and throwing punches.

Charlotte has left a place in her entire extended family’s hearts that will never be replaced. The family is profoundly grateful for the thoughts and prayers of the many friends around the world who have expressed their sympathies. They trust in the depths of God’s grace and with confidence know that Charlotte rests in God’s arms.

Friends may visit with Charlotte’s family Tuesday, December 18, from 4 to 7 pm, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 85 Mt Pleasant Road, Newtown. Her funeral service will take place Wednesday, December 19, at 1 pm, also at the church, followed by her burial in Newtown Village Cemetery.

The family asks that the media please respect their privacy at this time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be sent to Christ the King Lutheran Church, 85 Mt Pleasant Road, Newtown CT 06470.

The Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, is in care of arrangements.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 16, 2012

I'm sure this photo doesn't do her pretty curls justice, but the background and activity just seemed the proper picture in which to remember this little girl. The obituary itself is as it was posted in the Newtown Bee.

Jessica Adrienne Rekos

Jessica Adrienne Rekos, 6, beloved and cherished daughter of Richard S. and Krista A. Lehmann Rekos of Sandy Hook, died tragically, December 14, with her friends and classmates at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Born in Danbury May 10, 2006, she was a lifelong resident of Sandy Hook.

Jessica loved horseback riding, learning about orcas, writing, and playing with her little brothers.

In addition to her parents, her brothers Travis J. and Shane S. Rekos of Sandy Hook; maternal grandparents John E. and Suzanne A. Lehmann of Groveland, Fla.; paternal grandfather Richard J. Rekos and his wife, Mary, of Danbury; paternal grandmother Mary Anne Mellny Rekos of Monroe; aunts Karyn Lehmann of Groveland, Fla. and Karla (Lehmann) Lafferty and her husband, Jack, of Clermont, Fla.; uncles Brian Rekos and his girlfriend, Cathy Byrne, of Newtown, Craig Lehmann and his wife, Maureen, of Weeki Wachee, Fla. and Kurt Lehmann and his wife, Marion, of Belle Mead, N.J.; and cousins Kaitlin, Samantha, Connor, Erin, and Kelly survive Jessica.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 18, at noon, at St Rose of Lima Church, Newtown.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Newtown Rotary Sandy Hook School Fund, PO Box 263, Newtown CT 06482.

The Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, is in care of arrangements.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 16, 2012

Her funeral has already taken place, but I feel it continues to be important to post the obituaries as they appeared in their home town paper.

Catherine Violet Hubbard

Catherine Violet Hubbard, 6, born June 8, 2006, died December 14, during the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Her older brother, Frederick William; her parents Matthew and Jennifer; her grandparents Susan and Leo Sullivan and her great-grandmother Geraldine Russell Holden, all of West Chester, Penn.; Nancy and Earl Hubbard of Chatham, Mass.; and four uncles, four aunts, and nine cousins survive Catherine.

She will be remembered for her passion of animals and constant smile. Her family prays that she, all the students of Sandy Hook Elementary, and all those affected by this brutal event find peace in their hearts.

A wake is scheduled for Wednesday, December 19, from 4 to 7 pm, at St. Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown. A funeral Mass is scheduled for Thursday, December 20, at 10 am, at St Rose. Interment will follow the Mass, in St Rose Cemetery, Cherry Street, Sandy Hook.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to the Newtown Animal Center, PO Box 475, Newtown CT 06470.

The Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, is in care of arrangements.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 16, 2012

As published in the Newtown Bee, with her picture.

Jack Armistead Pinto

Jack Armistead Pinto, 6, of Sandy Hook, born May 6, 2006, died December 14, in Sandy Hook Elementary School, in the company of his many friends, classmates, and teachers. Jack was the son of Dean and Tricia (Volkmann) Pinto. He was born in Danbury, May 6. At the time of his death, Jack was a first grade student at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Besides his parents, his brother Benjamin A. Pinto; maternal grandparents Alfred Volkmann and Laurine (Rothe) Volkmann of Shoreham, N.Y.; paternal grandparents Anthony Pinto and June (DeChello) Pinto of North Haven; his aunts Karen Volkmann of New York and Mia Pinto of East Haven; his godparents Alan Zaccaro and Mia Pinto; and his good friend John (JJ) Haddick survive Jack.

Jack was an avid participant in a wide variety of activities including flag football, baseball, basketball, wrestling, and snow skiing. Jack was an incredibly loving and vivacious young boy, appreciated by all who knew him for his lively and giving spirit and steely determination.

In life and in death, Jack will forever be remembered for the immeasurable joy he brought to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, a joy whose wide reach belied his six short years.

The Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, is in care of arrangements.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 16, 2012


Jack Pinto's obituary as it appeared in the Newtown Bee

Noah Samuel Pozner

Noah Samuel Pozner
died December 14, a victim of the tragic events at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Noah was born in Danbury, son of Lenny and Veronique Pozner.

“How do you capture the essence of a 6-year-old in just a few words? Noah was an impish, larger than life little boy. Everything he did conveyed action and energy through love. He was the light of our family, a little soul devoid of spite and meanness.”

He will be forever missed by his mother and father; siblings Danielle, Michael, Sophia, and twin sister Arielle; his grandparents Marie, Dirk, Ivan, Deanna, and Lena; uncles and aunts, Arthur, Stephan, Alexi, Patricia, and Victoria.

“May you fly to that peaceful valley and wait for us there.”

Funeral services will take place Monday, December 17, at 1 pm, from The Abraham L. Green and Son Funeral Home, 88 Beach Road, Fairfield, with interment following at B'nai Israel Cemetery on Moose Hill Road in Monroe.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the planting of trees in Israel.

The Newtown Bee Posted December 17, 2012

This is as his obituary appeared in the local paper, the Newtown Bee.

In Tribute and Memorial

For the next, nearly four weeks, this blog will be written to pay tribute to the individual lives of each of the victims of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School, in Newtown, Connecticut. As the headlines continue to report about the embodiment of evil that perpetrated this horror, I simply cannot abide these precious lives to be just a list of names and ages in the news. These children had their whole lives ahead of them, and these educators made decisions that clearly put them in harms way, protecting the children in their care. That should be the headlines!
I cannot express how tired I became of seeing the shooter of Congresswoman Giffords, while the photos of his victims faded into national and historical obscurity after their funerals. The loss of a loved one, even when expected is painful. Unexpected deaths come with more emotions to process, and deaths which are both sudden and traumatic can actually affect the survivors in ways similar to post traumatic stress disorder; however, the loss of a child is something a heart just doesn't know how to begin to process.
I am not really going to have any specific order to these, other than to have the children first, because I believe that is also a tribute to the educators who gave their lives, to put these children first. Please feel free to share any information you may have about the lives of these people and the prayers for their friends and families.
The blog will post daily, except Sabbath.

Calling It Like It Is!

I'd love to blame the politicians, or the Middle East, or something besides standing up and owning what's coming to me. I deal with a number of people in my generation, the Baby Boomers who are struggling, still with heavy hearts in dealing with life. Our kids, our jobs, our old age, our lot in this thing we call life. I've been saying for some time, that we need to just go ahead and be the generation that bites the bullet, accepts responsibility, and changes the direction . . . I believe this is the blog in which I take that step. To be honest, the way the next generation turned out, I almost stepped off my bandwagon and was really considering just going ahead and going with the flow and taking what I'd paid in, but my conscience got the best of me. So before I considered anything else I might regret, I dusted myself off and stood back up on my own bandwagon. Many Boomers simply got skipped in regard to a respected place in history and it's our own fault. Most boomers were raised by the "greatest generation" and many of them are still collecting money and respect while their kids keep catering and bashing themselves over the head with the fifth commandment. Great news, Christian Boomers, if they taught you the fourth one had changed don't worry about the fifth one, because if you fail to keep one, you're guilty of them all, and after all, they are the generation that taught you. I think what we really need to get ahold of is the previous generation does influence the next one. The Boomers didn't just organize to be what we are. We were raised to be what we are, and we raised the next ones . . . Boomers raised a very mocking, disrespectful, self-centered generation and we'll just have to live with that. I'm an exception in the Boomer generation, well some of later ones were raised by the silent generation, and we're for the most part, all a mess. Believe me, they're not silent now, but growing up when parents were quiet, life as you knew it was getting ready to crash your direction. So, as an ignorant Boomer that just wanted a sweet little baby to love without trapping a man to be angry for life, my only parenting plan was to do it differently! Let me tell, there are tons of ways to do it differently and still be wrong! Now, the main thing I can say about my failure is; I wasn't following the Word of G-d. I had just enough understanding to feel guilty and confused. Not good parenting skills, at all. Now that I have come to G-d and continuously seek HIS will, I have had to face the fact and own the responsibility that everything I did outside of HIS Will I may not get to enjoy or count a benefit. In reading Scripture I have discovered that Abraham cooked up his own plan with some help and ended up having to give up the hopes and dreams he had with his first child, to receive the promise of G-d in his life. If G-d can require that of Abraham, who HE called HIS friend, who do I think I am to presume anything? I'm not saying G-d is going to allow permanent division in all our families, but if getting together is nothing but mockery and derision . . . that was the problem at Abraham's too. I believe YHWH's grace can bring reconciliation, but I am also aware of the headlines daily from the Middle East.
And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking . . . And the thing was very grievous in Abraham's sight because of his son And G-d said unto Abraham . . . And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away

Let's Talk About Trust

Trust is a big issue for most of all of us. Parents want to be able to trust their kids. Spouses want to be able to trust each other. Bosses want to trust their employees to do their work and employees want to trust their bosses for a paycheck. Business partners want to trust each other, and folks entering into a contract want each side to live up to their written word. Trust is big, and yet the number of people most of us trust, really trust; can be counted on one hand. I'm not saying we distrust everyone, but most of us simply do not trust very many folks with the opportunity to be distrusted, except our elected officials. We listen to them campaign, we talk about their empty promises, and yet we vote for them. Why, do we do collectively, what we'd never do individually? This fact of just accepted distrust of politicians got me thinking. Let's be honest, we all have people in our lives that we don't trust, and it's not because they've done something big and devious, although some do. No. Trust is more a matter of counting on the little things. We trust people that remember to do what they say they'll do. We trust people that bring the change back from an errand. We trust people that answer their phone. We trust people that don't make excuses, and we don't trust people who consistently do not do those things we count on. Trust isn't about the big events in life, it's a collection of several things that might seem quite trivial. I know, I would more quickly re-trust someone that was on the spot and told a "whopper," rather than someone that repeatedly changed the rules of engagement telling me I misunderstood. I would more readily trust someone that wrote a bad check, owned up to it, and covered it, as someone that repeatedly looked for opportunities to disgrace another. Perhaps my requirements of trust are different than those of another, but I have this great idea. Since most of us can agree that politicians can't be trusted, wouldn't it be great if say, three times of being caught not keeping your word or misleading people, landed that person squarely in Washington DC. A sort of shock treatment for the untrustworthy. Scared truthful! Can you imagine the average teller of white lies or someone with just a generic and random disregard of promise keeping were sent to try to survive amongst the real liars! A sort of "Lord of the Flies" version of truth therapy. As a matter of fact, rather than elections, we could have "true" public servants that are doing their time and paying their debt to society for lying. The great thing to this theory is, there would absolutely be term limits and they'd have to come back and "truly" face their people. Then, rather than prideful pensions, sock puppet theatre, and "cliff hanging" shenanigans, anyone that had been to Washington to serve would hang their head, as they should. When someone asked about Uncle So-and-So or Cousin Such-and-such, there would just be the whispered response that they were out of town . . . on the east coast . . . or, tending to some business. We'd have euphemisms for it, but finally politics would be known for what it truly is.
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding. a Proverb of Holy Scripture