Fair Exhibits Highlight Health And Safety

By Andrew Gorosko

Newtown Health District Director Donna Culbert said this week that the town’s 12th Annual Great American Health & Public Safety Fair held at the Newtown Middle School gymnasium and grounds on Saturday, September 24, attracted more exhibitors than any such previous event.

The four-hour fair, which attracted several hundred fairgoers to the school in perfect weather conditions, had free admission.

The American Red Cross conducted fundraising activities for victims of the hurricanes that have hit the Gulf Coast.

Also, the 2nd Annual Pumpkin Walk was held at noon. The Pumpkin Walk was a fundraising event held to benefit The Newtown Fund, a local charity.

On the broad lawn in front of the school, members of the United Fire Company of Botsford conducted a simulated extrication of victims trapped in motor vehicles after an automobile accident. The firefighters, aided by volunteer ambulance staffers, demonstrated the specialized techniques that they use to free people who are trapped within autos after serious crashes.

Also on the lawn, police officers demonstrated how they use their German shepherd, named Baro, for law enforcement. Officer Andrew Stinson, who is Baro’s handler, was aided by Officer David Kullgren in displaying the dog’s abilities.

Danbury Hospital’s Wellness on Wheels van was positioned at the fair, displaying the organization’s ability to travel into the field to perform health screenings.

Fairgoers also circulated among several dozen exhibits that were displayed in the school’s gymnasium.