Occupation: I'm retired now. I used to work at Waylon's Drug Store in Danbury. I worked on the fountain, making sandwiches and such. During World War II, I worked at Remington Arms in Bridgeport, making bullets. That was fun, really. I think half
Occupation: Iâm retired now. I used to work at Waylonâs Drug Store in Danbury. I worked on the fountain, making sandwiches and such. During World War II, I worked at Remington Arms in Bridgeport, making bullets. That was fun, really. I think half of Danbury worked there then.
Family: I have a daughter, Helen, who lives in Danbury with her husband, Andrew, and I have a son, Victor. He is married to Terry. I have two granddaughters, Elissa is 25 years old, and Nicole just turned 18. My grandson Evan is 19 years old. I am blessed with wonderful children. I love my daughter-in-law like a daughter, and my son-in-law is just terrific.
How long have you lived in Newtown? I have been here going on 15 years now. I grew up in Lawrence, Mass., and was in Danbury for about 35 years.
What do you like to do in your free time? I like to paint and sketch. I like to walk. I go every Sunday after church to the mall and walk for about an hour, and I walk around the neighborhood with four or five friends every day. I make use of the exercise room where I live, too. I like to read, mostly magazines, and I do like to go to the movies now and then with my family. I have always liked sports. I belonged to the Bowlerettes in Danbury, but thatâs going back a while. I still bowl occasionally.
Do you have a favorite sports team? I love the Jets. But they didnât make it to the Super Bowl this year, so I had to root for the Giants, another New York team.
Do you have a favorite travel destination? I donât like to travel much. Iâm more of a home person. When I was younger, we went to all of the Syrian conventions, all over New England, which are the Lebanese clubs.
What is the best thing about Newtown? The people are so nice. Itâs a small town and everyone is friendly. I have a bunch of wonderful friends here. We all help each other, whenever we need it. And youâre not afraid to walk around here, even at night.
What is the biggest change you have seen in Newtown? A lot of stores have come in, like Big Y and Walgreens. I think itâs a nice thing, to have more services like that.
Who was the greatest influence on your life? My dad always liked a good time and Iâm the same way. He taught me to enjoy life, and not to be afraid of anything. I hope Iâve influenced my children. They are like friends to me. We get along so well and have such a good relationship. They see how I am, a happy, go-lucky woman.
Do you have a personal philosophy? Trust in God. I have a lot of faith.
What makes you happiest? Seeing that my kids are happy, and that my beautiful grandchildren are happy. I thank God every day that He has let me live this long â Iâm 90 years old, and proud of it â to be with my children and grandchildren.