Each week we compile a list of some of the recent most-read stories published at newtownbee.com. Here is a roundup of the week’s top stories, based on the number of page reads.

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"Prizes, Cash Awards Await First Baby Of 2023, Essay Project Finalists," published December 31. The Newtown Bee is looking for the first child born to Newtown parents in 2023, continuing a tradition now in its 65th year. The newspaper is also continuing to seek students hoping to capture some cash if they are chosen as finalists in the "Why I LOVE Newtown Essay Project." Read more at newtownbee.com/12312022/prizes-cash-awards-await-first-baby-of-2023-essay-project-finalists.

"New ARP Spending Includes Dump Truck, Fairfield Hills Improvements," by Jim Taylor, published December 26. The Board of Selectmen at its December 19 meeting approved two new items of spending using American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds from the Federal government — a $240,000 dump truck for Public Works and $20,000 for safety improvements on the Fairfield Hills Campus. Read more at newtownbee.com/12262022/new-arp-spending-includes-dump-truck-fairfield-hills-improvements.

"Foundation To Ceilings, Sara Grimaldi’s Home Is Filled With Christmas Cheer," by Shannon Hicks, published December 25. Sara Grimaldi loves Christmas. In every room of her home, and seemingly, every nook, shelf, and corner inside the 2,800-square-foot residence has been splashed with Grimaldi’s unique style of holiday cheer. Read more at newtownbee.com/12252022/foundation-to-ceilings-sara-grimaldis-home-is-filled-with-christmas-cheer.

"A Full-Time Space For A Year-Round Christmas Village," by Shannon Hicks, published December 24. John Boccuzzi Sr had been collecting Christmas Village-style buildings and scenery for more than three decades. It has turned into a collection that merits its own full-time display space. Recently, Boccuzzi created just that. Read more at newtownbee.com/12242022/a-full-time-space-for-a-year-round-christmas-village.

"Kevin Hoyt Takes Over Girls’ Squad As Runners, Throwers, And Jumpers Start Track Season," by Andy Hutchison, published December 26. Kevin Hoyt has been a fixture in Newtown road racing circles throughout the years, often coming out on top. Now he will be leading a different pack: Newtown High School’s girls’ indoor track team. Read more at newtownbee.com/12262022/kevin-hoyt-takes-over-girls-squad-as-runners-throwers-and-jumpers-start-track-season.

Education Editor Eliza Van can be reached at eliza@thebee.com.