To the Editor:newtownforestassociation.org, because "Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference." (Kathy Calvin)

As I'm sure you are all aware, we are in the 11th hour of fundraising for the survival of the Cherry Grove Farm landscape. For those of you that might not live close to the farm, never drive by it, or may not have even heard of it, you might be thinking why should I contribute if it doesn't affect me? But upon reflection, whenever you see pictorial images of Newtown what do you see? You see pastoral landscapes, farms, and horses; just take a look at the scene behind the bar at the Barnwood Grill next time you happen to be in there.

Whenever I mention that I've recently moved to Newtown, without fail, time and time again, the comments reflect the beauty and space of Newtown. Perhaps you have gotten so used to this Newtown that you can't imagine that it will ever change, but in the proverbial blink of an eye the entire landscape can and has changed. Perhaps Cherry Grove Farm is not in your backyard but to quote Jackie Mutcheson, "It takes each of us to make a difference for all of us." Let us not regret that somebody didn't do something, only to realize that we are that somebody.

This might not be happening in your section of Newtown this year, but who knows, maybe next year you will be faced with a similar challenge. And you will be petitioning your neighbors to pitch in to save the beautiful face of Newtown.

We have until January 15 to reach the required funds so please make a donation today at

Sian Nimkoff

7 Hundred Acres Road, Newtown         January 3, 2018