Newton Day celebrates community

by Laurie Gordon
NEWTON — Police Chief Mike Richards declared Saturday's Newton Day a success when it was only halfway over. Standing in the middle of Spring Street looking up and down a thoroughfare filled with families, vendors, food and music, he said, “This event is all about community and bringing people out and together to celebrate the town.”
Unlike other town festivals, Newton day is dichotomous with its location starting on Spring Street with vendors and food and then moving to Station Park for rides, bounce houses and culminating with fireworks. The event is organized by the Greater Newton Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Town of Newton. Though there was a threat of thunder storms, the day turned out to be summery and perfect for the event.
Caedon Jones, of Stillwater, sold cotton candy and slushies with his church, First Presbyterian of Newton, whose motto is “Seeking, Sharing and Sharing Together.” Jones said, “This is fun and I get to hang out with my church friends and see other friends who come by.”
The Collectible Toy Box was on hand as a repeat vendor at the event. “We love coming to Newton Day,” said Kathy D. who works for the business' owner, Rob Knott. “The crowd is great and it's all about the kids.”
While many vendors and purveyors of delectable creations have been at the event before, one was certainly a newbie this year. Amore Bakery and Cafe was on hand with canolli, homemade stuffed breads and other confections to introduce the new store.
“We've opened six weeks ago and immediately realized we were filling a niche in the area for a good Italian bakery,” said Heather Melhus, of Hampton, who works at Amore. “The customers are great and the food we have is very popular. It's really taken off.”
"Volcanoes" were very popular, especially with the teenagers. This creation is a drink made with dry ice that actually smokes like a smoldering volcano. Music from DJ s and live bands filled the air, and everything ended with a bang in the form of a festive, welcome-to-summer fireworks display.