Dedication Ceremony Opens New CAC Facilities

By Eliza Hallabeck

Multiple residents and guests gathered behind the Children’s Adventure Center facility on Monday, October 11, for a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony that marked the opening of the facility’s new Sunshine Room and playground.

“In 41 years you can imagine the thousands of children this facility has served,” said First Selectman Pat Llodra, while holding ceremonial scissors at the ready.

Children’s Adventure Center students stood in front of the first selectman behind a red ribbon that marked the entrance to the facility’s playground.

Before the children could stream past the ribbon and make use of the playground for the first time, Ms Llodra, Selectman Will Rogers, Children’s Adventure Center Director Judy Sims, and Children’s Adventure Center Board Chairman Mae Schmidle all spoke.

Mr Rogers said the facility was founded by Newtown residents in 1969, before he announced the new room and playground are being dedicated in Ms Schmidle’s name.

“The Children’s Adventure Center would not be what it is today without Mae Schmidle,” said Ms Sims.

Ms Sims also thanked the center’s staff and “wonderful chef” for making the facility what it is.

Mr Rogers also acknowledged Michael Porco, owner of Porco Construction Inc of Sandy Hook, for the construction of the room and facility.

Following the event, Ms Schmidle thanked the Children’s Adventure Center Board of Directors, its “fantastic staff,” and, “many thanks to the town of Newtown for all their support and to our very many supporters and donors.”

Before she cut the ribbon for the playground, Ms Llodra said the Children’s Adventure Center is a beacon of excellence in town, and said she was glad so many could make it to join in the ceremony.