Occupation: I have been a realtor since 1980. I graduated from Penn State University with a major in elementary education. Prior to real estate, I taught second, third, and fourth grades in New York State and in France in an Army dependents school. When we transferred here, I decided to switch careers.   

How Long in Newtown: I have lived in Newtown for 20 years. Previous, I lived in Clarence, N.Y., outside of Buffalo. I was born and brought up in Pittsburgh, Penn.

 Biggest Change Seen in Town: I think it’s the center of town with the shopping we have now that we didn’t have when we moved here. Also, there has been an improvement in a lot of the roads. There has also been a change from isolated lots to more neighborhoods that people with children are interested in moving to, yet Newtown has kept its small-town charm. 

Family:  My husband, Don, and I have been married for 36 years. We were high school sweethearts. We have two daughters. Marci is married to Glenn Mouritzen, who is from South Africa. They have our first grandson, Jeffrey Lionel, who was born on December 1. Marci works for IXL, where she is the director of client services. The company builds Web sites and develops Internet strategies for Web sites. Glenn is vice president of Greystones Maritime. He is a consultant for shipping companies that ship to the United States. Julie is married to Joe Cacciola. She teaches art in a Bridgeport school and lives in Stratford. Joe is store manager for the Hayday Market in Westport.

Hobbies: I enjoy sailing, weight training, playing bridge, and doing cross-stitch.

Favorite Books and Authors: I love to read. I’m currently reading the Harry Potter series. I’m also reading the Left Behind series, stories about the end of the world. I enjoy fiction and non-fiction books.

Favorite TV Show: I like quiz shows, such as Jeopardy and Who Wants to be a Millionaire? I also like Frazier and The Practice.

Organizations: I belong to several professional organizations. I am the children’s leader for Bible Study Fellowship, which meets in Southbury on Tuesday nights. I am a member of the choir at Valley Presbyterian Church in Brookfield.

Most Vivid Memory of Newtown: When Julie got married on a beautiful October day, we went to Ram’s Pasture for photographs. With all the color, it was beautiful.

Favorite Vacation Spot: Block Island on our boat with our family, and sailing to other spots on Long Island Sound. We also enjoyed a trip to South Africa to visit Glenn’s parents in April 1999. We were there for a whole month. It is gorgeous.

Personal Philosophy: That God has a plan for my life, and I have faith in God’s plan for my life. If something goes wrong or if something goes right, it’s in His hands.