Middle Gate Brownie Troop 51170 enjoyed the hay ride at the Annual Juliette Low Birthday Bash. The gathering of Newtown Service Council Brownies was held at Blue Jay Orchards in Bethel and commemorated the birthday of Girl Scouts of the USA founder, Juliette Low. Enjoying the hayride are, from left, Annika Alexander, Alexa Bedini, Chloe Kasak, Riley Smith, Tori Chillington, Savannah Davidow, Katherine Mickewich, Arianna Della Corte, Calista Giroux, Jaden Albrecht, Rachel D’Ausilio, Monique Dubois, Emma Maki and Claire Hull. Not pictured: Brenna Anderson.

Fifth graders in Junior Girl Scout Troop 50706 from Reed Intermediate School, were taught basic ways to defend themselves from bullies who attempt to restrain them physically. The class is available to all Girl Scouts troops in Newtown, complements of Sensei George Chaber, owner of Karate America, who believes it is his mission to empower girls to feel they have the strength and knowledge to defend themselves from attackers. Rose Paget, a member of the troop, stands with Sensei Chaber and her brother Anthony. Rose, a green belt, assisted her troop in learning key defensive moves.