<h3>$2 Million Win for Bethel</h3><p>The town achieved a significant financial milestone this week by refinancing nearly $27.5 million in long-term debt. Wednesday’s bond sale saved the town over $2 million! The refunding does not extend the term length, and our interest rate dropped from 4% to 2.76%. Remarkably, the sale attracted 18 bids—an unprecedented number, according to our Bond Council and Advisor, with over 30 years of experience. This outcome highlights the value of Bethel’s financial discipline and our “AAA” rating.</p><h3>Parloa Park</h3><p>The Board of Selectmen allocated $500,000 in ARPA funds to renovate Parloa Park. Combined with a state grant, this brings $1 million in improvements. Thanks to the Park and Rec Commission for their hard work in finalizing the plans!</p><h3>Safe Streets for All</h3><p>Bethel received a $160,000 federal grant for the <strong>Safe Streets for All</strong> initiative. This funding will support plans to improve traffic and pedestrian safety, particularly on Route 6 in Stony Hill. Thanks to our town and WestCOG staff for making this happen!</p><h3>Dust Blowers</h3><p>Please be considerate when using leaf blowers. In this Stage 2 drought, the dust they generate can inconvenience neighbors. Also, remember: <strong>no open burning allowed!</strong></p><h3>Winter Prep</h3><p>Winter weather may be closer than it feels! Help keep Bethel roads safe by:</p><ul><li>Avoiding garbage cans in the street.</li><li>Securing your mailbox.</li><li>Clearing basketball hoops and other obstructions from the road.</li><li>Removing vehicles from the street during snow events.</li></ul><h3>Childcare Survey</h3><p>The Bethel Youth Commission is assessing community childcare needs, including daycare, summer camps, and after-school activities. The survey is anonymous, but participants who provide an email will be entered to win 4 tickets to <strong>Bill Blagg’s Family Magic</strong> at the Ridgefield Playhouse on February 9 at 11 AM. Results will help coordinate efforts among public, private, and non-profit organizations.</p><h3>Internships Needed</h3><p>Bethel High School is seeking businesses for student internship, shadowing, and work-study programs. These opportunities benefit both students and businesses by fostering innovation and providing valuable experience. I</p><h3>Upcoming Events</h3><ul><li><strong>Parm Dinner</strong></li><li>St. Thomas’ Chicken/Eggplant Parm Dinner is tomorrow, November 16, at 5 PM! Enjoy a meal of chicken or eggplant parm, pasta, salad, bread, and dessert. Reservations are appreciated for takeout orders. Visit <a href="https://www.stthomasbethel.org/Dinner" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.stthomasbethel.org/Dinner</a> or call 203-743-1794. Walk-ins welcome.</li><li><strong>Jazz Cabaret</strong></li><li>Celebrate music with Bethel’s finest vocalists at the <strong>Jazz Cabaret</strong> on Sunday, November 17, at 6 PM. Tickets are $15 at the door. Doors open at 5:30 PM.</li><li><strong>BEF Family Board Game Night</strong></li><li>Join the Bethel Education Foundation for <strong>Family Board Game Night</strong> on Tuesday, November 19, from 6–8 PM in the high school cafeteria. Tickets are $5 per person. Purchase online at <a href="https://www.betheledfoundation.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.betheledfoundation.org/</a> or pay at the door after November 18.</li><li><strong>Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service</strong></li><li>Gather for the <strong>Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service</strong> on Sunday, November 24, at 4 PM at Bethel United Methodist Church. The theme is “United in Gratitude.” Bring non-perishable food donations to support local families.</li></ul><h3>Shoutouts</h3><ul><li><strong>Dr. Christine Carver</strong>, Superintendent of Bethel Public Schools, was named <strong>CAPSS Superintendent of the Year</strong>. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!</li><li><strong>Mandy Esposito</strong>, Bethel’s Teacher of the Year, exemplifies excellence in education and inspires a love of learning in her students.</li><li><strong>Evan Bureau</strong> earned <strong>All New England</strong> honors with a 15:59 finish in the Boys 5K at the New England Interscholastic XC Championship. Incredible performance!</li><li>Good luck to our 7-1 Wildcat Football Team tonight at New Milford. The playoffs are within reach!</li></ul>

<p><strong>Bethel, CT</strong> — The Bethel Senior Center is gearing up for a busy Friday, November 15th, with two important community events. From <strong>9 a.m. to 11 a.m.</strong>, the center will be offering <strong>free flu and Covid vaccines</strong>, open to all and with no appointment required. This clinic provides a convenient opportunity for residents to stay protected during the winter months.</p><p>Alongside the clinic, the Bethel Senior Center will host its <strong>annual Holiday Shoppe</strong>, a two-day event filled with festive shopping and seasonal cheer. The Holiday Shoppe will be open from <strong>9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Friday, November 15th</strong>, and will continue on <strong>Saturday, November 16th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.</strong> Visitors can enjoy browsing an array of <strong>White Elephant items, baked goods, crafts, jewelry, refreshments</strong>, and more. The event will also feature a <strong>quilt raffle</strong> and private vendors, making it a great stop for holiday gift shopping.</p><p>For more information about the Bethel Senior Center and its events, visit their website at <a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/senior-center" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bethel Senior Center</a>.</p><p>Don’t miss this chance to get vaccinated and kick off your holiday shopping with a bit of local charm!</p>

<p><strong>Bethel, CT</strong> — Winterfest 2024 is almost here, bringing festive cheer and community spirit to downtown Bethel! Organized by the Bethel Chamber of Commerce, this much-anticipated event will take place on <strong>Friday, November 29th, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.</strong> and promises a joyful experience for all ages.</p><p>This year's Winterfest continues Bethel's cherished tradition of holiday festivities, offering an afternoon and evening filled with <strong>shopping, live music, delicious food</strong>, and <strong>horse-drawn wagon rides</strong> through Bethel’s scenic downtown.</p><p>The highlight of the event begins on the <strong>Town Hall lawn</strong> with a <strong>special performance by the Bethel High School Chorus</strong>, followed by the <strong>lighting of the town's Christmas tree</strong>—a symbol of community unity and seasonal joy. And, of course, Santa Claus will make his grand appearance, delighting children and adults alike!</p><p>For a full schedule of Winterfest activities or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit <a href="https://bethelchamberofcommerce.com/winterfest" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bethel Chamber of Commerce’s Winterfest page</a>.</p><p>Mark your calendar, and join in on Bethel's beloved holiday tradition!</p>

<h2>Connecticut Unveils the Nation’s First Christmas Movie Trail</h2><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;Discover the 22 holiday movies filmed in Connecticut — and see how you can visit each festive destination</em></p><p>In a celebration of cinema and the holiday season, Connecticut proudly unveiled the nation’s first-ever&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Christmas Movie Trail</strong></a>&nbsp;today. This unique journey lets movie lovers experience the quaint towns, bustling cities, and festive settings that have captivated millions of viewers through these beloved Christmas classics. From Hallmark to Netflix to Lifetime, a curated map featuring 22 filming locations, invites visitors to step into the cozy inns, intimate cafes, charming shops, and iconic attractions where their favorite holiday stories were brought to life.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The unveiling event, held at the historic&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Silas W. Robbins House</strong></a>&nbsp;in Wethersfield – a setting in Hallmark’s&nbsp;<em>Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane</em>&nbsp;– featured actors Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Michael Rady, and Producer Andrew Gernhard, who together revealed the map to an enthusiastic audience. This trail captures the charm of Connecticut’s communities and hidden gems that have become the backdrop for some of the most timeless holiday movies.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>A New Way to Experience Connecticut</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Connecticut’s Christmas Movie Trail invites visitors to explore a side of the state that typically shines on screen: snow-dusted main streets adorned with lights, historic inns decked for the holidays, and vibrant town squares. The trail taps into the growing travel trend of “set-jetting,” where fans travel to real-life locations featured in their favorite movies and TV shows to relive memorable scenes and connect with the stories they love.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail showcases the state’s unique role as a holiday destination, not just for movie sets but for real-life memories,”&nbsp;<strong>Ellen Woolf Rubrich, Connecticut’s state brand director, said</strong>. “Our communities – brought to life with the spirit, beauty, and joy audiences experience on screen. Now, with the growing trend of set-jetting, visitors can step into these holiday scenes themselves and experience every aspect of what make these movies so magical.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Highlights of the Trail</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify">The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail is a curated guide, connecting travelers with the accommodations, dining spots, and attractions that play a role in 22 films from Hallmark, Lifetime, Netflix, BET, and Universal Studios. Highlights include:</p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Historic inns and cozy accommodations</strong>: Experience the warmth and holiday decor of inns that have served as both real and fictional backdrops, perfect for a seasonal getaway.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Iconic holiday scenes</strong>: From bustling main streets to picturesque town greens, each stop on the trail has been thoughtfully selected for its role in holiday movies, providing a full immersion into Connecticut’s holiday spirit.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Local dining and unique attractions</strong>: Fans can enjoy locally-owned restaurants and charming cafes that feature in the films, and unique attractions that offer a complete holiday movie experience.</li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">Featured films include:</p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Trivia at St. Nick’s</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Where Are You, Christmas?</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Mystic Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Ghosts of Christmas Always</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Sugar Plum Twist</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>A Holiday in Harlem</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Next Stop, Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>One Royal Holiday</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Holiday for Heroes</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Christmas at Pemberly Manor</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Romance at Reindeer Lodge</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Wally Lamb’s Wishin’ &amp; Hopin’</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The 12 Days of Christmas Eve</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The Holiday Fix Up</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The Noel Diary</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Soul Santa</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>My Adventures with Santa</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>A Very Nutty Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>A Very Merry Toy Store</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Broadcasting Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The Santa Con</em></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>A Celebration of Tradition, Innovation, and Economic Impact</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify">“This trail is an innovative approach to travel that connects Connecticut’s picturesque towns and vibrant cities with the magic of holiday cinema,”&nbsp;Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s chief marketing officer, said. “We’re giving visitors an immersive experience that brings their favorite holiday films to life. This trail isn’t just about celebrating the movies themselves – it’s about celebrating Connecticut’s unique ability to blend tradition with fresh, creative travel experiences that drive economic growth and showcase the best of what our state has to offer.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">As part of the festivities, 12 lucky Connecticut residents were chosen to attend the event and meet their favorite holiday film stars in person. Adding an extra layer of holiday magic, Hallmark actress Erin Cahill surprised one of the winners by drawing their name for a special opportunity – to be an extra in an upcoming Hallmark movie being filmed right here in Connecticut.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information, including access to the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail map, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-f/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>www.CTvisit.com</strong></a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Election Results</h3><p>Election results for Bethel are available on the town website at <a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/election-results" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bethel-ct.gov/election-results</a>. For statewide results, visit the CT Secretary of State Election Management System. Bethel's representation in the State Legislature, US Congress, and US Senate remains unchanged. To find your legislators, visit <a href="https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/cgafindleg.asp" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find My Legislator</a> or search “Find my legislator CT” online.</p><p><em>Note:</em> A few items were left behind by voters, including reading glasses, a magnifying glass, and a wallet (without ID). If one of these items is yours, please check in with the First Selectman’s Office in Town Hall.</p><h3>Bethel Keeps AAA Rating</h3><p>The Town of Bethel has maintained its highest credit rating of "AAA," following a review by S&amp;P Global. This rating highlights our dedication to conservative budgeting, proactive financial planning, and sound management practices. The town is preparing to refinance $27.2 million in long-term debt, potentially generating significant savings.</p><h3>Bethel Water Customers</h3><p>Bethel water customers: Look for letters addressed to "Current Resident" regarding lead service lines. Please review this important information and help verify your water service materials by following the instructions in the letter to self-evaluate your service line or contact the Water Department for assistance.</p><h3>BEF Community Grants</h3><p>The Bethel Education Foundation (BEF) supports projects that promote innovation, creativity, and excellence in learning by offering grants to local nonprofit organizations. This year, $2,000 is available for community grants. Organizations with new project ideas are encouraged to apply by the December 6 deadline. For more details, visit <a href="https://www.betheledfoundation.org/apply-for-a-grant.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BEF Grants</a>.</p><h3>FEMA Assistance Deadline</h3><p>The deadline to apply for assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration is Tuesday, November 19, 2024. Assistance is available at the Disaster Recovery Center (Southbury Town Hall, 501 Main Street, Southbury) Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. You can also apply online at <a href="https://www.DisasterAssistance.gov" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">DisasterAssistance.gov</a> or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.</p><h3>Veterans Day Events</h3><p>Bethel will honor Veterans Day with the following events:</p><ul><li><strong>Sunday, November 10</strong>: Join us at 8:30 am on the Town Hall lawn for the Folds of Honor 5k Race, followed by vendors and music by Gorja. Folds of Honor provides scholarships to families of fallen or disabled service members. Learn more at <a href="https://www.foh.org/VeteransDay5k" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Folds of Honor 5k</a>.</li><li><strong>Monday, November 11</strong>: Town Hall will be closed in observance of Veterans Day. A ceremony will be held at the Bethel Veterans Monument (in front of Town Hall) at 10:45 am.</li></ul><h3>Bethel Senior Center</h3><p>The Bethel Senior Center is offering Flu and Covid vaccines on Friday, November 15 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am (no appointment necessary). The center will also host its annual <strong>Holiday Shoppe</strong> on Friday, November 15 (9:00 am - 11:00 am) and Saturday, November 16 (9:00 am - 3:00 pm), featuring baked goods, crafts, jewelry, a quilt raffle, and more.</p><h3>USA Boxing in Bethel</h3><p>Witness “The Battle at Bethel” USA Boxing event at Bethel High School Gym on Saturday, November 16. Doors open at 5:00 pm with the first bout at 6:00 pm. Tickets are $25 at the door, or $20 presale at The Greek (PT Barnum Sq.). For more information, visit <a href="https://usaboxing.webpoint.us/wp15/Events2/ViewEvt.wp?EventID=242845" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">USA Boxing Event</a>.</p><h3>Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service</h3><p>Join the Ecumenical Thanksgiving service on <strong>Sunday, November 24 at 4:00 pm</strong> at Bethel United Methodist Church. The theme is "United in Gratitude." Non-perishable food items for the local food pantry are welcome. Co-sponsored by Bethel UMC, St. Thomas Episcopal, The First Congregational Church of Bethel, and the United Church of Christ.</p><h3>Winterfest</h3><p>Winterfest 2024 kicks off on <strong>Friday, November 29, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm</strong> in downtown Bethel. Enjoy shopping, music, food, and horse-drawn wagon rides, ending with a tree lighting, performance by the Bethel High School Chorus, and Santa’s arrival. For the full schedule, visit <a href="https://bethelchamberofcommerce.com/winterfest" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Winterfest 2024</a>.</p><h3>Shoutouts</h3><p><strong>Bethel Public Schools</strong>: Congratulations to Bethel Public Schools for ranking 83.3 in the 2023-2024 Accountability Results—well above the state average. Bethel is also tied for first place among comparable schools statewide.</p><p><strong>Go Baby Go Project</strong>: Bethel High School, in partnership with CCSU, has retrofitted 19 toy cars for children with mobility disabilities—the highest number by a single high school. For ways to support this initiative, email firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov.</p><p><strong>Bethel Boys Soccer</strong>: Good luck to Bethel Boys Soccer in the State Quarterfinal against Pomperaug!</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

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