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<p>Governor Ned Lamont today announced that his administration is awarding approximately $35.5 million in state funding to nonprofit providers across Connecticut for capital improvement projects that support each respective organization in their mission of delivering services to some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The grants are being released through the state’s <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-sukgdk-tlluktttuu-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>Nonprofit Grant Program</strong></a>, which the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management administers. They will be used to fund capital projects not typically reimbursed through other funding mechanisms and will support items such as facility alterations, renovations, improvements, and additions; new construction; health, safety, and Americans with Disabilities Act projects; energy conservation improvements; information technology systems; technology that promotes client independence; purchase of vehicles; and acquisition of property.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The recipients of this eighth round of grants under the Nonprofit Grant Program includes:</p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bethel</strong> – Ability Beyond Disability: $386,000 (Headquarters Roof Removal and Replacement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bloomfield</strong> – Viability, Inc.: $130,182 (Employment Technology Lab)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bloomfield</strong> – Viability, Inc.: $180,000 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Branford</strong> – Connecticut Hospice: $775,000 (Pharmacy Improvements)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bridgeport</strong> – Optimus Health Care: $60,154 (Improving Perinatal Outcomes through Technology at Optimus)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bridgeport</strong> – Southwest Connecticut Agency on Aging: $491,476 (AgingCT/Technology Hub)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bridgeport</strong> – Southwest Connecticut Agency on Aging: $1,587,243 (Renovation/Improvement at Wakeman Boys & Girls Club)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bridgeport</strong> – Bridgeport Hospital: $285,520 (Public Safety improvements at Bridgeport Hospital – Milford campus)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bridgeport</strong> – Community Resources for Justice: $450,000 (Property Acquisition)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Bristol</strong> – Connecticut Community Care: $100,467 (New Laptop Computers)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Brookfield</strong> – Regional YMCA of Western CT: $193,255 (ADA Improvements for Camp Greenknoll)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Canton</strong> – The Arc of Farmington Valley: $275,195 (Hybrid Vehicle Acquisition)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Canton</strong> – Focus Center for Autism: $66,337 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Cromwell</strong> – Adelbrook Behavioral and Developmental Services: $350,000 (Playscape Expansion and Enhancement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Danbury</strong> – Danbury Youth Services: $43,933 (IT Updates)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Danbury</strong> – Family and Children’s Aid: $400,000 (New Milford Behavioral Health Center Improvements & Expansion)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Danbury</strong> – Mid-Western Connecticut Council of Alcoholism (New Haven Behavioral Health Outpatient Facility Improvements)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Dayville</strong> – United Services: $93,848 (Milner House Generator Project)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>East Hartford</strong> – InterCommunity: $361,250 (HVAC Project)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>East Hartford</strong> – InterCommunity: $199,863 (Construction of a Mobile Unit Barn)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Gales Ferry</strong> – United Way of Southeastern Connecticut: $99,065 (Trash Compactor)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Gales Ferry</strong> – United Way of Southeastern Connecticut: $117,688 (Purchase and Installation of a Walk-In Freezer)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Gales Ferry</strong> – United Way of Southeastern Connecticut: $397,711 (Purchase of Vehicles)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Greenwich</strong> – Greenwich Hospital: $285,520 (Public Safety Initiative)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – NAFI Connecticut: $291,144 (Window Replacement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – YWCA Hartford Region: $131,00 (Community Facility Window Replacement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – Community Health Services: $401,162 (Upgrading Equipment and Technology)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – Community Partners in Action: $223,769 (Facility Improvements – Washington Street location)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – Mercy Housing and Shelter: $157,000 (St. Elizabeth House Roof Replacement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – Mercy Housing and Shelter: $463,816 (St. Elizabeth House Basement Reconfiguration and Renovation)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – Mercy Housing and Shelter: $719,170 (St. Elizabeth House Residential Campus Reconfiguration & Parking Lot Expansion)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – NAFI Connecticut: $54,000 (Thompson Group Home Bathroom Renovations)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – YWCA Hartford Region: $55,000 (Community Facility Lighting Upgrades)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – Hands on Hartford: $315,000 (Permanent Generator)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Hartford</strong> – NAFI Connecticut: $45,494 (Litchfield Generator – Equipment)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Jewett City</strong> – Thames Valley Council for Community Action: $792,681 (New Construction Childcare Center)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Litchfield</strong> – Connecticut Junior Republic Association: $239,000 (IT Equipment Replacement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Litchfield</strong> – Connecticut Junior Republic Association: $400,000 (Electronic Card Key Access & Panic Button System)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Litchfield</strong> – Connecticut Junior Republic Association: $320,000 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Manchester</strong> – Community Child Guidance Clinic: $163,000 (Window Replacements)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Manchester</strong> – The Hartford Dispensary: $583,885 (HVAC Systems Upgrade)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Manchester</strong> – The Hartford Dispensary: $600,000 (New Electronic Health Record System)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Manchester</strong> – The Hartford Dispensary: $900,000 (Campus Redesign for Weston Street, Hartford Campus)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Meriden</strong> – MidState Arc: $512,384 (Technology to Support Client Independence)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Meriden</strong> – MidState Arc: $500,000 (Facility Improvements)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Meriden</strong> – MidState Arc: $45,000 (Purchase of Vehicles)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Meriden</strong> – Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis: $512,384 (Roof Replacement of Domestic Violence Shelter)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Middletown</strong> – Gilead Community Services: $71,544 (Waterproofing and HVAC Upgrades)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Middletown</strong> – The Connection: $544,222 (IT Infrastructure)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Middletown</strong> – Gilead Community Services: $105,300 (Upgrade and Replacement of Clinical Laptops and Monitors)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Middletown</strong> – St. Vincent de Paul Middletown: $950,000 (New Construction St. Vincent Commons)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Middletown</strong> – The Connection: $144,100 (Electrical Upgrades)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Milford</strong> – Boys & Girls Village: $1,220,582 (Charles F. Hayden High School Expansion)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – Klingberg Comprehensive Program Services: $121,800 (Raymond Hill K-12 Special Education HVAC)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – CCARC: $96,509 (Cyber Security Project)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – Community Mental Health Affiliates: $715,200 (Beaver St. Affordable Housing Initiative; Property Acquisition)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – Community Mental Health Affiliates: $387,000 (Beaver St. Affordable Housing Initiative; Facility Improvements)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – Klingberg Comprehensive Program Services: $205,200 (Raymond Hill School Flat Roof Replacement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – Klingberg Comprehensive Program Services: $326,381 (New Britain Campus Bituminous Repaving)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – CCARC: $43,088 (Infrastructure Safety and Security Project)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Britain</strong> – CCARC: $204,000 (Purchase of Vehicles)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Haven</strong> – Fair Haven Community Health Clinic: $458,456 (IT Upgrades to Accommodate Growth in Patient Population)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Haven</strong> – Fair Haven Community Health Clinic: $60,597 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New Haven</strong> – Clifford W Beers Guidance Clinic: $83,090 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New London</strong> – Safe Futures: $168,190 (HVAC System Improvements at Phoenix House Transitional Housing)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New London</strong> – Safe Futures: $44,600 (Window Replacement at Phoenix House Transitional Housing)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New London</strong> – Safe Futures: $167,769 (Upgrades to Emergency Domestic Violence Shelter)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>New London</strong> – Child and Family Agency of SE CT: $295,000 (Facility Improvements)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>North Haven</strong> – BHcare: $2,907,877 (Facility Acquisition for New Shoreline Behavioral Health Center)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>North Haven</strong> – HART United: $200,000 (Permanent Generators)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Norwalk</strong> – STAR, Inc. Lighting the Way: $569,323 (Installation of Two New ADA-Compliant Covered Entrance Ramps)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Norwich</strong> – Madonna Place: $53,488 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Norwich</strong> – Reliance Health: $255,000 (Parking Lot Repairs)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Old Lyme</strong> – Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau: $400,256 (Renovation Project)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Plainville</strong> – Wheeler Clinic: $841,654 (New Construction Bristol Family Health and Wellness Center)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Ridgefield</strong> – Visiting Nurse Association of Ridgefield: $49,770 (Communication System Upgrade)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>South Windham</strong> – Horizons Programs: $387,778 (Vehicle Replacement)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Stamford</strong> – ARI of Connecticut: $987,000 (Renovation of 174 Richmond Hill Avenue Day Program Facility)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Stamford</strong> – ARI of Connecticut: $445,075 (Purchase of Vehicles)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Stamford</strong> – Inspirica: $55,800 (ADA Upgrades for Women’s Emergency Housing)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Torrington</strong> – McCall Foundation: $320,000 (Facility Upgrades, Renovations, Improvements, and Additional at Hotchkiss House Residential Program)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Unionville</strong> – New Horizons: $376,972 (Roof Replacement at New Horizons Village)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Unionville</strong> – New Horizons: $54,806 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Wallingford</strong> – Connecticut Foodshare: $792,681 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Waterbury</strong> – Waterbury Youth Services: $200,000 (Facility Upgrades)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Waterbury</strong> – Western CT Area Agency on Aging: $707,000 (IT Upgrades to Promote Client Independence)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Waterbury</strong> – Annie C Courtney Foundation: $185,000 (New Beginnings Property Acquisition)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Waterbury</strong> – Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury: $75,000 (ADA Ramp for Domestic Violence Shelter)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>West Hartford</strong> – Hebrew Community Services: $120,000 (Vehicle Purchase)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>West Haven</strong> – West Haven Community House: $147,000 (Handicap Accessible Lift for 227 Elm Street, Main Building)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Westbrook</strong> – SARAH, Inc.: $325,000 (Renovations)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Willimantic</strong> – Generations Family Health Center: $228,195 (IT Upgrades)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Willimantic</strong> – Generations Family Health Center: $46,000 (Safety Upgrades)</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Windsor</strong> – Community Health Resources: $1,067,175 (Residential Addition to facility at 1491 West Main Street, Willimantic)</li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">Learn more => <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-sukgdk-tlluktttuu-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-General/About/Nonprofit-Grant-Program-NGP</strong></a>.</p><p><br></p>
<p><strong><u>2024 Honor an Educator Program</u></strong></p><p>The Brookfield Education Foundation (BEF) has kicked off its 2024 Honor an Educator program, aiming to recognize the many educators making a difference in the Brookfield community. Anyone whose contributions to the community positively impact our lives, be it a teacher, coach, scout leader, bus driver, tutor, etc. may be nominated. All honorees will receive a certificate of appreciation, and their names will displayed in a special listing on the BEF website. The BEF is a local funding source, providing resources for lifelong learning by Brookfield residents of all ages. Recent past BEF grants have included funding of the following popular programs (along with many, many others):</p><p>- BHS EMT Program</p><p>- Multiple Brookfield Senior Center Lecture and Discussion Series</p><p>- WMS Emotion into Art Program</p><p>- Brookfield Library Brendan Slocumb Program</p><p>- CLES Andres Beaty Thematic Unit and Theater Opportunity</p><p>- Origami Basics Program</p><p>- WMS Building a Culture of Community and Literacy with the Power of Storytelling</p><p>- BPS Book Creator</p><p>- Library Storywalks</p><p>- Brookfield Conservation Commission Invasive Species Education and Removal</p><p>- Community Giving Garden</p><p>Nominations will be accepted through Saturday, April 27. For any questions regarding the Honor an Educator program, please contact Amy D’Alessandro at <a href="mailto:BEFCTHonor@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BEFCTHonor@gmail.com</a></p><p><a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/0QgpcdcYshVfQqv8V-oMzg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRn9YPRP0RMaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYnJvb2tmaWVsZGVkdWNhdGlvbmZvdW5kYXRpb24ub3JnL2V2ZW50cy9ob25vci1hbi1lZHVjYXRvci0yMDI0L1cHc2Nob29sbUIKZhNRUBRmDVVP4lITa2VycnlAaGFtbGV0aHViLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Please click here for the BEF website to learn more, and Honor an Educator today!</a></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Six days of shopping offered at Spring Arts and Fine Crafts Show</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Mother’s Day gifts and local art is a focus at the seventh annual Spring Arts and Fine Crafts Show at the historic Merwinsville Hotel in Gaylordsville, CT. The organization will offer six days to shop over two weekends before Mother’s Day. The show will again be on two weekends, April 26-28 and May 3-5, for three days each weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Over 90 local artists and artisans will have work on display at the show and all is for sale. A portion of all sales benefit the Merwinsville Hotel Restoration, a 100 percent volunteer nonprofit that has worked to restore the building for over 50 years. The 181-year-old building needs constant maintenance and renovation.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The show features artwork in glass, photography, jewelry, sculpture, fiber, woodwork, pottery and paintings in watercolors, oil and acrylic. Locally grown plants are also available for sale from Meadowbrook Garden in New Milford and The Village Farm Shop and Greenhouse in Gaylordsville.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">One of the features of the spring show is live artist demonstrations during both weekend days from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Past years have included spinners, weavers, jewelry making, wood carvers and many more. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">There is a suggested $2 donation per person for the Spring Show. Children under 10 are free. Members are admitted free and those at the sponsor level and above will receive a discount on art purchased at one of the three annual shows. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Merwinsville Hotel is a national historic landmark located at 1 Browns Forge Road in Gaylordsville, CT, only 15 minutes from Kent, Sherman, New Milford and the Harlem Valley/Wingdale Railroad Station. For further information, call 860-350-4443 or visit </span><a href="http://www.merwinsvillehotel.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.merwinsvillehotel.org</a></p>
<p>In a message to the Brookfield community this morning, Sarah Palmer, Emergency Management Director confirmed that the town did indeed feel the earth move this Friday morning, April 5. She said, "At 10:23 this morning USGS reported a 4.7 scale earthquake that occurred in Newark, New Jersey and a potential second in the area of Bethel, ME. At this time, there is no further information. The Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security has been contacted and will be advising as information is available. There have been no reports of damage in Brookfield or surrounding areas currently. Please call 911 for emergencies only. As always, stay safe. Again we will provide additional information when it is available."</p><p>Dr. John W. Barile, Superintendent of Schools informed the school community that the school facility personnel are assessing the buildings to ensure no damage.</p><p><br></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>“The Gospel of Peace” Author Talk May 2 At Wisdom House Retreat Center In Litchfield</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify"> On Thursday, May 2, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., Wisdom House Retreat & Conference Center in Litchfield will host an Author Talk and Book Signing with peace activist and Nobel Peace Prize Nominee, Rev. John Dear, author of his newest book, “The Gospel of Peace: A Commentary on Matthew, Mark and Luke from the Perspective of Nonviolence” (Orbis Books).</p><p class="ql-align-justify"> “The Gospel of Peace” is Rev. Dear’s first-ever original commentary that offers a fresh new approach to the Synoptic Gospels from the perspective of active nonviolence written to help everyone carry Jesus’ global campaign of nonviolence for justice, disarmament, and peace. “John Dear is one of the few towering figures in the Christian nonviolent freedom and peace movement in our time. This powerful book should not be missed,” commented Cornel West. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Author of over forty books, for over four decades Rev. John Dear has been working for justice and disarmament and teaching peace and nonviolence. During his May 2nd talk, he will speak about “The Gospel of Peace”, Jesus, the Gospels, and nonviolence, and what it all might mean for all people of today. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">“No living person has done more to root Jesus’ message of nonviolence and peace in scripture than John Dear. Follow John’s lead through Matthew, Mark, and Luke and, like those disciples on the Emmaus Way, your heart will be set afire with excitement to tell others the Good News,” wrote Wes Howard-Brook, author of <em>“Come Out, My People!”: God’s Call Out of Empire in the Bible and Beyond</em> </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Rev. Dear wrote “The Gospel of Peace” to walk readers through every line of the three Synoptic Gospels pointing out Jesus’ practice and teachings of nonviolence each step of the way. He wrote to invite readers to become practitioners of creative nonviolence like Jesus, Gandhi, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Jesus was nonviolent to the core, a disarming, healing presence toward those in need, and a revolutionary disrupter of the unjust status quo. He was a political threat to the ruling authorities who succeeded in killing him, only to push him to the heights of nonviolence through his death and resurrection,” wrote Rev. Dear. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Executive director of the non-profit, Beatitudes Center in Morro Bay, CA (<a href="http://www.beatitudescenter.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: black;"><u>www.beatitudescenter.org</u></a>), Rev. Dear hosts Zoom sessions about Jesus, the Gospels, and peacemaking. He has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize numerous times, including by Archbishop Desmond Tutu. To learn more, visit <a href="http://www.johndear.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: black;"><u>www.johndear.org</u></a>. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2024, Wisdom House is an interfaith retreat and conference center presenting programs in spirituality, wellness, the arts, and ecology, and offering hospitality to academic, civic, nonprofit, and business organizations. “We are committed to welcoming people of all backgrounds and beliefs,” stated Wisdom House Executive Director Deborah Kelly. “In this alarming time of unrelenting global turmoil, we are especially delighted to welcome Rev. Dear and his exceptional insights into peace and disarmament.”</p><p>“The Gospel of Peace” books will be available for $20 each at Rev. Dear’s May 2 Author Talk at Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center at 229 East Litchfield Road. There is no cost for the event, however, donations will be appreciated. Reservations are encouraged and appreciated and can be made by visiting <a href="http://www.wisdomhouse.org/programs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: black;"><u>www.wisdomhouse.org/programs</u></a> or calling 860-567-3163.</p>
<p>Fairfield County Bank’s Mill Plain Road branch became the epicenter of excitement today as a monumental announcement unfolded. Entertainment Football League (ENTFLA) founder Douglas Freeman, alongside League Commissioner and Buffalo Bills Hall of Famer Andre Reed, Tommy Benizio founder of BeniZio Sports, Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves, Danbury Arena’s Herm Sorcher, and Fairfield County Bank President Dan Berta and CEO Dave Schneider, gathered to reveal a game-changing development.</p><p>Professional football is set to touchdown in Danbury in May of 2025, marking a significant milestone for the city and its sports enthusiasts. The League Commissioner, the esteemed Andre Reed, expressed his enthusiasm, declaring, “This is only the beginning of something great.”</p><p>ENTFLA is poised to revolutionize the sports and entertainment landscape by blending electrifying football with top-tier entertainment. Fans can anticipate a day filled with excitement, from legendary tailgating events to celebrity encounters, world-class athletic showdowns, and memorable concerts.</p><p>Benizio, in introducing Commissioner Andre Reed, highlighted the league's fortune in having Reed's leadership, not only for his recognition but also for his deep understanding of football. Reed's passion and dedication to ENTFLA are palpable, promising an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike.</p><p>At the heart of ENTFLA is the competitive football game, where athletes will showcase their skills on the gridiron. Expect thrilling plays, heart-stopping moments, and a true showcase of sports excellence.</p><p>“I'm excited to be here in Connecticut, representing what football means to me and what it can mean to you guys here in Danbury. I’m so proud to be part of this,” Reed remarked, underlining his commitment to the league's success.</p><p>Residents of the Danbury area are encouraged to participate in naming the new team, casting their votes for the team's name, theme, logo, and colors from April 4th to April 26th, 2024, at <a href="https://www.goentfla.com/danbury/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--link);">https://www.goentfla.com/danbury/</a>. Only one vote per email address is permitted, offering the community a chance to be part of the team's inception.</p><p>ENTFLA's ambitious goal is to build 30 globally branded teams by 2030, known as "30 by 30," aiming to accelerate the growth of the league into a scaled, national, and global professional sports organization.</p><p>Stay tuned for more exciting announcements as ENTFLA gears up to make its mark in Danbury! Visit <a href="https://www.goentfla.com/danbury/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--link);">https://www.goentfla.com/danbury/</a> for updates and information.</p>
<h3>Brookfield Town Hall April Community Update </h3><h4>Security Update</h4><p>Two weeks ago, our town, school systems, and staff received a threatening email indicating bombs had been placed in our schools, town buildings, and private residences of some town and school employees. Following protocol, we activated our emergency response team, closed schools and town buildings for the day, and coordinated with local police departments and state and federal authorities.</p><p>State and Federal authorities assessed the threats as not credible, declining to send personnel or bomb-sniffing dogs. Despite this, Brookfield took additional precautions, including bringing in bomb-sniffing dogs from another authority and reviewing extensive video footage. No suspicious activity was found.</p><p>While these threats are despicable, we remain vigilant. Our Police department will continue to investigate and ensure the safety of our community.</p><h4>Community Engagement</h4><p>Going forward, our priority is the safety of our children and residents. We will not allow criminals to create false chaos in our town.</p><h4>Upcoming Meetings and Events</h4><ul><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">Board of Selectmen Meeting:</span> Monday, April 1, at 7 p.m., Meeting Room 133. The meeting agenda will be posted on the town website the Friday afternoon before the meeting and live-streamed and recorded for viewing.</li><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">Special Town Meeting:</span> Wednesday, April 3, at 7 p.m. at the Brookfield High School Auditorium to discuss and consider a resolution authorizing various appropriations and transfers related to the Town's capital expenses for the fiscal year 2024-25.</li><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">Board of Finance Public Hearing:</span> Wednesday, April 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the Brookfield High School Auditorium on the Proposed FY 2024-25 Town Budget.</li><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">Coffee with the Community:</span> Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Angel's Deli located at 470 Federal Road.</li><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">National Volunteer Week:</span> April 21 - 27, celebrating people doing extraordinary things through service.</li></ul><h4>Volunteer Opportunities</h4><p>If you're interested in volunteering your time and talent, please call the First Selectman’s office at 203-775-7301. Opportunities include:</p><ul><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">FISH:</span> Friends In Service Here, sponsored by the Brookfield Commission on Aging, organizes volunteers to drive Brookfield seniors who need rides to medical appointments.</li></ul><h4>Town Clerk and Public Works Updates</h4><p>Visit the Town Clerk’s website for information on the 2024 Presidential Preference Primary. The Public Works department reminds taxpayers of intent to lien notices for those who owe on the 2022 Grand List, and other updates related to tax payments and vehicle registrations.</p><h4>Fire Marshal's Office Regulations</h4><p>With Spring, many residents are cleaning yards of brush and debris. The Fire Marshal's Office reminds residents of open burning regulations and safety precautions. Visit the website for more information and to obtain a burn permit.</p><h4>Parks and Recreation Programs</h4><p>Registration for Spring and Summer programs and events begins on April 1. Details for all programs, events, and happenings can be found at <a href="http://www.brookfieldparksandrec.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--link);">www.brookfieldparksandrec.com</a>. The First Annual Brookfield Town-Wide Tag Sale will take place on May 4.</p><h4>Board of Education Highlights</h4><p>Recent updates from the Board of Education include information about the ParentSquare app, budget updates, and school safety measures. Visit the website for more information.</p><h4>Brookfield Library Events</h4><p>The Brookfield Library welcomes Spring with a full slate of programs, book discussions, and activities for patrons of all ages in April. Check out the Events Calendar for details.</p><h4>Happening Around Town</h4><ul><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">Town Hall Art Exhibit:</span> Featuring the art of Sandra Cointreau, continuing until early April.</li><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Support Group:</span> Monday, April 29 at 11:00 a.m. at the Senior Center.</li><li><span style="color: var(--tw-prose-bold);">Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off:</span> April 6 is the first of six events in 2024. Safely dispose of various items. Visit the HRRA website for more information.</li></ul><p>Brookfield continues to be a vibrant and resilient community, united in ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.</p><p>Visit the Town of Brookfield online <a href="https://www.brookfieldct.gov" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.brookfieldct.gov/</a></p><p><br></p>