Donations of a lectern and speakers are now in place in town buildings, thanks to the Newtown Cultural Arts Commission (NCAC) supporters. While looking for sponsors for the annual fall arts festival, which will be conducted throughout September, NCAC Secretary Robert Rabinowitz contacted companies that "wanted to help out," but "it was better for them to donate equipment," he said.

AmpliVox contributed a lectern - a podium with built-in sound - which is now at Newtown Municipal Center. Last week Mr Rabinowitz met with the first selectman's Executive Assistant Susan Marcinek, who received the item.

The lectern will remain at the municipal center "for use for whatever is needed," said Mr Marcinek. Describing the equipment, he said, "It's portable and on wheels and battery and electric powered and can be used outdoors."

A donation of speakers from Samson, a division of Sam Ash, is now at Edmond Town Hall.

The speakers are portable and will be for use in any room at Edmond Town Hall, Mr Rabinowitz said.

"They can be used for any event, concert, guest speakers, bands, or other events where voices or instruments would need to be amplified." He recently met with Board of Managers Chairman Margot Hall in the Alexandria Room to make the speaker contribution.

Both donations plus other contributions from the companies total several thousand dollars Mr Rabinowitz said.

Throughout the year NCAC helps connect donors to those in the community who would benefit from a contribution to their efforts in the arts.