The 2021 Hearts of Hope-Newtown chapter commemorative hearts were formally unveiled on October 1.

There are two designs this year, both honoring The Newtown Bee.

Brianna Moran decided to highlight Newtown’s hometown newspaper, she said recently, because “what’s more ‘Newtown’ than the newspaper?”

A junior at Trumbull Agriscience & Biotechnology Center, the Shelton resident has been attending HOH-Newtown events regularly since last summer, she said during the chapter’s August event. She and her grandmother, Kathy Moran, and younger brother were among those enjoying the gathering at NewSylum that Wednesday evening.

Moran was also tapped to create the 2020 Newtown commemorative heart. Last year’s design featured a floral scene.

“The night they told me last year that they wanted me to do the commemorative hearts was one of the most insane nights,” Moran, a self-taught artist, shared.

This year Moran went with two designs for the Newtown chapter. Her first offers a detailed view of the portico in front of the newspaper’s office at 5 Church Hill Road, complete with the longstanding arch and the words The Newtown Bee. The word Hope and 2021 were also added under the arch in very fine lines.

The edge and back of the ornament are copper colored.

Despite Moran thinking she is “not great at buildings and architecture,” the ornament is gorgeous.

The second design features The Bee logo, with an abstract pattern of blues, yellows, and oranges behind it. Hope 2021 has been written in the upper left section of the palm-sized ornament, and The Newtown Bee is written in the upper right area of the heart. The edging and back of the equally lovely design have been painted an aqua blue.

Pattie Ptak, president of the local Hearts of Hope chapter, said the hearts this year acknowledge “the support of The Newtown Bee for so many years.”

Through continued features and press releases, the newspaper has supported and highlighted the local chapter since its formation in the wake of 12/14.

“We really couldn’t decide which one we liked best,” Ptak added.

‘A Wonderful Tribute’

The newspaper’s staff is understandably happy with the new accolade.

Newtown Bee Editor John Voket, who was in 2014 named a National Ambassador of Hope, said this week he “could not be happier or more proud to see this wonderful tribute.

“Anyone who is remotely familiar with The Newtown Bee’s offices, or our brand, will immediately recognize our presence on these unique and beautiful ornaments,” Voket continued.

“I know community members and everyone who reads and loves The Bee and Newtown wherever they may live will want to acquire both designs and hang them proudly on their holiday tree or somewhere in their homes to help celebrate our 140-plus-year legacy, and the selfless volunteers whose Hearts of Hope elevate the spirits of each and every recipient,” he added.

Moran has been dabbling in art for years, she said. Now 16, she enjoys working with oils, watercolors, and gouache.

“We’re so proud of her,” her grandmother said in August. “When she was 13 or 14 it became obvious that when we got her art supplies, they were going to be professional quality.”

Laughing, Brianna Moran agreed, saying it is “a rarity that I walk into an art store and spend less than $50.”

Moran regularly attends HOH Paint with a Purpose parties. Her grandmother started the habit, joining the events and then inviting her grandchildren to join her.

“Life is very busy for everyone these days,” Kathy Moran said in August. “By doing this, we know that once a month we would have this. Even when things are busy, we can put this time aside to catch up.

“It’s become an important part of our life,” she added.

Moran also created the commemorative heart for HOH-Stratford this year. That design features Stratford Point Lighthouse. The heart’s design is called “Beacon of Hope.”

Gwen Cook, president of HOH-Stratford, called Moran “an amazing young lady.”

Where To Purchase

Proceeds from the sale of the commemorative hearts benefit Hearts of Hope, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation of which the local chapter is a part.

While the commemorative hearts can be ordered online, the public will have the first opportunity to purchase the $15 hearts directly on Wednesday, October 20, from 6 to 8 pm, at Newtown Community Center. The next Paint with A Purpose event is planned for that evening. All ages are welcome.

All supplies are provided for guests to paint palm-sized ceramic hearts with simple messages and/or designs of hope.

Reservations are requested, although walk-ins can usually be accommodated. Cost is $7 per heart to be painted.

This month’s featured recipients are the volunteers and clients of FAITH Food Pantry. Those planning to attend the October 20 painting party are asked to considering bring a nonperishable donation with them.

The 2021 hearts are also available at the offices of Bee Publishing Company, 5 Church Hill Road. The office is open weekdays between 8 am and 5 pm.

Additionally, HOH-Newtown is planning to have a booth at Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue’s Fall Festival on Saturday, October 23. That event runs from 11 am until 5 pm at the fire company’s main station, 18-20 Riverside Road.

The 2021 commemorative hearts can also be purchased through Facebook, by sending a message through the page for Hearts of Hope of Newtown, CT. Deliveries of hearts are also available, within 10 miles of Sandy Hook.

For additional information contact Ptak at 203-828-8103 or newtown@ourheartsofhope.org.

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Associate Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.