Newtown Resident's Lighthouse in Running for Maritime Aquarium Contest

A lighthouse crafted by a Newtown resident is in the running for a $1,500 grand prize in the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk’s 13th annual Festival of Lighthouses Contest.

Donna Kern Ball’s “Gingerbread-Man-Kind” lighthouse is made with gingerbread, frosting, peppermints and other treats.

Visitors to the aquarium can cast votes for their favorite design. There are also cash awards for five runner-ups.

“Each year we are amazed by the time and effort that our contestants put into their lighthouses,” said Judith Bacal, the Aquarium’s exhibits director. “The bar gets raised every year on design and craftsmanship. In turn, having all these smart and creative pieces of art on display only makes the experience of visiting The Maritime Aquarium during the holiday season even more engaging, enjoyable and memorable.”