Occupation: I was a secretary for 23 years, the last 15 years of which were at IBM as a secretary and administrator. I’ve had a few part time jobs over the years. I’m currently an active community volunteer.

How Long in Newtown: I’ve lived in Newtown for 4½ years. We moved here from LaGrange, N.Y., near Poughkeepsie, where we lived for 25 years. I grew up in Conklin, N.Y., near Binghamton.  

Biggest Change Seen in Town: The changes I’ve noticed have been the building of Wasserman Way, the addition to the high school, the revitalization of the Big Y shopping area, and the Trinity Church renovation, inside and out.

Family: My husband, Dick, and I have been married for 29 years. We met on a beach in Bermuda when I asked him to take a picture of my girlfriends and me. We both worked for IBM in different locations at the time, and we returned to the very same beach for our 25th anniversary. Dick retired from IBM several years ago, and he worked for SVG in Wilton for two years. He’s currently retired. Our daughter, Amy, is a freshman at Parsons School of Design, which is part of The New School University in New York City. She’s a very talented artist, and loves NYC.

Pets: Our dog, Periwinkle, is an eight-year-old lab/spaniel mix who has her own personality.

Hobbies: I enjoy photography, reading, skiing, and walking. Periwinkle and I walk a mile or two early each morning.

Favorite Books and Authors: My very favorite authors are Bill Pronzini, Marcia Mueller, and Sue Grafton. They write fast-paced detective stories that I find relaxing. I belong to a wonderful book club, and that keeps me reading a variety of very good books and good authors. We’re currently reading All Over but the Shoutin’ by Rick Bragg, about growing up poor in the south.

Favorite TV Show: My favorite is The West Wing, but I also enjoy The Practice and the news channels.

Organizations: I’m active in the Newtown Newcomers Club and the Rocking Roosters Square Dance Club. I’m the treasurer for Women Involved in Newtown, and am an active member of Trinity Episcopal Church. I was co-chair for the Antiques Show at the Family Counseling Center’s Holiday Festival this year. I drive for two very worthy volunteer organizations, Meals on Wheels and FISH. FISH drivers take people to and from local medical appointments. I’m really impressed that these two groups are run solely by volunteers, and the services they deliver are so appreciated.

Most Vivid Memory of Newtown: The first autumn we were here I felt like I was driving through a calendar. The sun filtering through big golden maple trees, winding roads, low stone walls, and white New England houses. Just like calendar photos.

Favorite Vacation Spot: The first years we were married Dick and I each had a private pilot’s license and were part owners of a single engine Piper Comanche. We spent many great vacations flying to different places all over the country, including Alaska. The islands of the Bahamas were also wonderful. Now we enjoy Cape Cod and Sanibel Island.

Personal Philosophy: If I have one, I guess it’s these thoughts. Be thankful for all you have. Be friendly. Get involved. Help others. Have faith that everything will work out.