Stories
<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In a heartwarming feature on the Kelly Clarkson Show today, December 19, 2024, Ridgefield’s own Prospector shone brightly on a national stage. Celebrating its mission to employ adults with disabilities, the theater inspired millions as founder Valerie Jensen, shared the theater’s journey and purpose. </span></p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vidkAkfFYR8?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Dressed in a shimmering green gown, Val captivated viewers, recounting how her sister Hope, who has Down syndrome, inspired her to challenge the reality that 80% of people with disabilities in the U.S. are unemployed. "It’s so sad that so many doors remain shut for people with disabilities," Val said. Her vision for a better future began at a stoplight in Ridgefield, where she spotted a building slated for demolition. Imagining a space full of light, inclusivity, and opportunity, Val opened The Prospector Theater—a vibrant, one-of-a-kind movie theater that now employs 125 people, 75% of whom have disabilities.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Breaking Stereotypes and Creating Sweet Work</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">As Val explained, Prospects—what employees are proudly called—handle every aspect of the theater's operations, from box office to gourmet popcorn production. Kelly Clarkson tried the theater’s celebrated popcorn, sampling Belgian Chocolate Toffee and Peppermint Bark, delighting in both the flavors and the jobs they represent. "This is sweet work!" Val proclaimed, highlighting how Prospector Popcorn is not just a snack but a means of empowerment for their team.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">During the episode, Kelly spotlighted the theater’s holiday tradition: The Sparkle Awards, described by Val as "The Academy Awards but better." Every holiday season, employees don their sparkliest attire to celebrate one another’s achievements, fostering camaraderie and joy.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Val issued a heartfelt call to action to employers nationwide: “Look to the incredible talent pool of people with disabilities in your community. They want to work, can work, and do a great sparkle job.”</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Stories of Transformation and Inspiration</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Two Prospects joined Val on the stage to share their stories.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">K Mann, who has worked at the theater for 10 years, said he thrives in his role, which spans concessions, popcorn-making, and ensuring teamwork among staff. Married to his wife Cindy, also a fellow Prospect, K Mann credited his job for contributing to his happiness and financial independence.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Stacy, a Prospect for three years, shared her motto: “Don’t let your disabilities define you; let your disabilities inspire you.” Stacy, who is visually impaired, is a Service Learning team member, engaging students in disability education. She is also the cheerful voice behind Prospector Theater’s popcorn jingle, which she performed to enthusiastic cheers.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Holiday Cheer and a $25,000 Surprise</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Ryan, the Prospector’s Executive Director, delivered an emotional tribute, commending Val, K Mann, and Stacy for their work and resilience. “The Prospector is a movement,” he declared, emphasizing how the organization is breaking stereotypes and proving the value people with disabilities bring to society.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In a thrilling finale, Kelly announced that Kroger, a company committed to inclusivity, would be donating $25,000 to support The Prospector’s mission. An elf dashed onstage with an oversized check, drawing cheers, smiles, and tears of joy from the audience and Prospects alike.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Prospector’s feature closed out the hour-long episode in grand style, leaving viewers inspired by its sparkle-filled message.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Watch the Full Segment</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Relive the magic by watching the full episode on</span><a href="https://www.nbc.com/the-kelly-clarkson-show/video/white-christmas-by-jonathan-mcreynolds-kelly-clarkson-show-cameo-oke/ACCN492421899" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> The Kelly Clarkson Show</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Visit the Prospector at</span><a href="https://www.prospectortheater.org/home" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> prospectortheater.org</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> to learn more about its mission, popcorn, and ongoing efforts to change the world, one sparkle at a time.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">*Image courtesy The Prospector</span></p>
<p><strong>Legislature Back in January</strong></p><p>With a focus towards the next legislative session beginning January 8th, the Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCOG) hosted a legislative reception this week to highlight issues affecting member towns, including Bethel. Access to grants, state funding formulas, and mandates were at the top of the agenda. Transportation, affordable housing, environment, energy, health, technology, and balancing local control with regional opportunities. Stay tuned for more info when the session begins.</p><p><strong>Safe Streets</strong></p><p>We had a short kickoff meeting this week with representatives from the Federal Highway Administration regarding our recent Safe Streets 4 All grant award to assess traffic safety in Bethel. The town will soon be preparing a scope of work. Schedule of work, and a budget. The study should help the town secure future funding for traffic projects in areas with a high chance of traffic related fatalities.</p><p><strong>Public Site and Building Commission</strong></p><p>The purpose of the Public Site and Building Commission is to aid and advise the Board of Selectmen in studying the current public building needs and planning for the future space and public building needs of the Town. We could really use some residents who are interested in helping the Town with building projects! Please reach out at <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov</span> for more info.</p><p><strong>Town Hall Repairs</strong></p><p>Please pardon our appearance! We have repairs underway in some of our offices in the rear hallway in Town Hall. If you have business next week with Planning & Zoning, Inland Wetlands, the Fire Marshall, or the Building Department, please call the department before you visit. The area should be put back together before December 30th.</p><p>Town Hall Holiday Hours</p><p>The Town Hall closes at 12 pm on Tuesday, December 24th and is closed on December 25th. The Town hall is closed at 12 pm on Tuesday, December 31st and is closed on January 1st. The Transfer Station closes at 11 am on Tuesday, December 24th and 11 am on Tuesday, December 31st.</p><p><strong>URGENT Need for Drivers</strong></p><p>Brotherhood-In-Action needs URGENT help delivering food tomorrow, December 21st at 9 am! Its an easy way to help our friends and neighbors. Enter the Bethel United Methodist Church lot at 141 Greenwood Ave. You will be given boxes and addresses. You don’t even have to leave your car! Then exit on School Street and go make someone’s life better. We have many families counting on our help.</p><p><strong>Cold Weather Protocol</strong></p><p>Due to a period of extremely cold conditions over the next several days, the Governor has activated the state’s severe cold weather protocol beginning at 12 pm tomorrow, December 21st through 12 pm on Tuesday, December 24th. The library and town buildings are great places to visit. After hours, anyone in need of a safe place to stay warm is urged to call 2-1-1 to be directed to a nearby location, or check the list of locations online at <a href="https://www.211ct.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.211ct.org</a>. Please do not forget to bring pets indoors.</p><p><strong>This Weekend</strong></p><ul><li> Santa at Uncle Leo’s & Rosny Gourmet tomorrow, December 21st from 10 am to 2 pm.</li><li>Holiday Pop Up Shop Sale at <a href="https://www.nipsandpaws.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Global Treats by Nips and Paws</a>, 268 Greenwood Ave tomorrow between 11 am and 4 pm. Shop Local!</li><li>Gingerbread house decorating at WorkspaceCT tomorrow from 12 pm to 1 pm. What is better than hot chocolate and decorating a gingerbread house on a freezing cold day! Register and check out other events at: <a href="https://www.workspacect.org/events" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.workspacect.org/events</a></li><li>Danbury Animal Welfare Society is hosting a Holiday Adoption Event tomorrow from 12 pm to 3 pm. Adorable pups and kittens are looking for forever homes!</li><li>Support the Brotherhood-In-Action food pantry at a Guest Bartender event tomorrow at Portofino’s from 12 pm to 3 pm tomorrow featuring our own Genée West of Support Local Bethel CT!</li><li>Don’t miss live music and the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vestarooftop/p/DDdaVflgnyS/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ugly Sweater contest at Vesta Rooftop Kitchen</a> tomorrow at 7:30 pm!</li><li>Bethel United Methodist Church is hosting a classic New England tradition of Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 22nd at 4 pm. The place to be if you like traditional Christmas songs. Of course, cookies and cocoa provided after the event. Everyone is welcome!</li></ul><p><strong>BPL Teen Programs</strong></p><p>The Bethel Public Library has great teen programs! Check out the Comic Book Workshop with comic book artist Jack Purcell on Monday, December 23rd. If you like sculpting, don’t miss the Clay Fairy Door Workshop with Deb Jaffe on Friday, December 27th! Register now at <a href="https://www.bethellibrary.org/events/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bethellibrary.org/events/</a></p><p>Bethel NJROTC Tree Pick-Up</p><p>Plan for your tree disposal now! The Bethel Naval JROTC is having their annual Christmas Tree Pickup on Saturday, January 11th from 9 am to 12 pm. (Snow Day Sunday, January 12th from 12 pm to 3 pm) This is an excellent opportunity help the Bethel NJROTC Boosters fund educational programs for the cadets. Learn more at <a href="https://rotc.bright-moments.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://rotc.bright-moments.com/</a></p><p><strong>Shoutouts</strong></p><ul><li>Thank you, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BethelCTGardenClub/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bethel Garden Club</a>, for the beautiful floral decorations around Town Hall! You all do so much to make our town beautiful!</li><li>The Bethel Middle School Ambassadors were in Town Hall this week! Thank you for all the really great questions and your interest in what is happening in Bethel!</li><li>Thanks <a href="https://www.cthousegop.com/Foncello/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">State Rep Marty Foncello</a> and <a href="https://ctsenaterepublicans.com/home-hwang/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">State Sen Tony Hwang</a> for taking the time to join the Bethel Board of Education’s Legislative Workshop! We are counting on your voices in Hartford more than ever.</li><li>A shoutout to the crew over at <a href="https://www.kind-works.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kind Works</a> for a fantastic professional development presentation to our town employees! We are all really dedicated to improving our service to our community and appreciate the power of Kindness!</li></ul><p>Have a great weekend!</p>
<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Residents of the Greater Danbury area—including Brookfield, Danbury, Ridgefield, Bethel, Newtown, New Milford, New Fairfield, and Southbury—turned to Connecticut’s first </span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Expedia Cruises </a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">travel agency to plan their 2024 travel adventures! From relaxing in the tropics to exploring Europe’s timeless charm, locals embraced these top destinations and experiences:</span></p><ol><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Seven-Night Caribbean Cruises</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Soak in the sun while visiting four breathtaking tropical destinations.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Alaska Journeys:</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;"> Seven-night cruises, either roundtrip or one-way, with optional 3-7 night land tours to explore Denali—a must-see for nature lovers.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">European Escapes: Italy and France are top picks</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">, whether through all-land tours or extended cruises of seven or more nights. Italian favorites include Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Florence, Venice, and Sicily. For France, travelers often request trips to Paris and Seine river cruises that include a visit to Normandy.</span></li></ol><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A Holiday Highlight: Christmas Market River Cruises (booking for 2026 is underway!)</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">"European Christmas Market River Cruises are a favorite,” says Jim Expedia Cruises in Brookfield, Franchisee. “These magical experiences take you to charming old-world villages during the holiday season, fully immersing you in Christmas themes. Availability for November and December 2025 is already limited, and bookings for 2026 are underway."Make 2025 Your Year of Adventure!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, scenic mountain views, or cultural landmarks, Mary and Jim are ready to help you create unforgettable travel experiences.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Visit Expedia Cruises in Brookfield</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">67 Federal Road and online </span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">here</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Call for Your Free Consultation:</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">(203) 429-5589</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Start planning your next getaway with Connecticut’s trusted travel experts at Expedia Cruises. Adventure is just a call or visit away!</span></p>
<h3><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Holiday Concert With Bethel High School Chamber Singers on </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Thursday, December 19 from 6:30-7:30 PM</span></h3><p><em style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In Person and On Zoom</em></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We are very pleased to welcome back the Bethel High School Chamber Singers, directed by Ms. Christine Manalo, for a Holiday Concert! The singers will perform a short set of music and close with a holiday sing along.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Bethel High School Chamber Singers are BHS’s elite group of not more than 25 singers, from all grades. They participate in all High School performances and have also performed regionally. They are directed by Ms. Christine Manalo.</span></p><p><a href="https://o9vh5xbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001q4wqjW02scVf7kPGLdeq4MfpjU5-V3tsY45fQ2CPVW0ydJMaSGCUoET7eztPObMAR_qTR4pCpJ0S_XJ5bd7ABNiueqvQ73BSswrtV-yYI2X6DyQCV-ZYAQrXQ-n-NctkplDwQjCkCVR_CuEEAhPho-SBUm2PNa1yJ_Z2XQ3GlnOFPrzxRydB2Mwojp8hTK94bvN7qiLxUCl2qD_YmeTo4yLReti9PDRnKag4yxVuNZMIrzWCqjHMPgpVpTIBsdQDQ47yCnfwVwcCiJ1drTYJxw==&c=XRluiay5FcOyJOXvTNHt2VSrJO2auUOuFsshbOKjwOYYAB6wKAJ0FQ==&ch=jw4G5xa_EyAsKflIgNr0Oi43Y0F2lSxrUCxqPP8caBU6EElAySuUdw==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Click Here to Register</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
<p>Looking to add some extra love to your holiday season? Join us this Saturday, December 21st, for our Holiday Adoption Event at DAWS, located at 147 Grassy Plain Street in Bethel, CT!</p><p>Come meet adorable pups and kittens, ready to find their forever homes.</p><p>Whether you're looking for a new best friend or just want to spread some holiday cheer, we’d love to see you there!</p><ul><li>When: Saturday, December 21st from 12-3pm</li><li>Where: DAWS, 147 Grassy Plain Street, Bethel, CT</li></ul><p>Let’s make it a season of love and second chances!</p><p>Learn more <a href="https://daws.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://daws.org/</a></p>
<p><strong>Aquarion CAB</strong></p><p>Aquarion customers: Aquarion held a Customer Advisory Board Meeting this week. Like the Bethel Water Department, Aquarion is undergoing a mandatory effort to identify lead service lines. Learn more at <a href="https://www.aquarionwater.com/water-quality/learn-about-lead" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.aquarionwater.com/water-quality/learn-about-lead</a>. Also, Aquarion’s Newtown Regional System’s wellfield, which was damaged in the August storm, remains flooded. The temporary irrigation ban and the suspension of new service connections remain in place.</p><p><strong>WWII Veteran Ceremony</strong></p><p>Our Lt. Governor, in partnership with Connecticut Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch and Major General Francis Evon of the Connecticut National Guard, is coordinating a ceremony to recognize all living World War II veterans in the state in May. We would like to arrange for Bethel WWII veterans who would like to attend to do so in style. If you are a Bethel resident who served in World War II, or you know a Bethel resident who served, please contact <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov</span>.</p><p><strong>Truck 4</strong></p><p>Truck 4, Bethel’s new ladder truck assigned to Stony Hill Volunteer Fire Company, is back in town. Bethel firefighters are receiving training on the apparatus this weekend provided by the manufacturer. After training and final upfitting of equipment, the goal is to have Truck 4 in service on New Year’s Day. Stay tuned for more information.</p><p><strong>ZBA Public Hearing</strong></p><p>Public Hearing: The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding 17 Shelter Rock Rd. (East Brook Construction, Inc Sec 3.4.C.a Front setback from 50 ft to 25ft) on Tuesday, December 17th at 6 pm at Town Hall in Meeting Room D. Learn more at <a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/2024-zba" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/2024-zba</a>.</p><p><strong>Tax Bills</strong></p><p>From the Tax Collector: Don’t forget that taxpayers can bring their payments to the Bethel and Stony Hill branches of <a href="https://www.nsbonline.com/about-us/locations" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Newtown Savings Bank</a>. Please remember to bring your bill or a portion of the bill showing what you owe.</p><p><strong>Town Holiday Hours</strong></p><p>The Transfer station will close at 11:00am on December 24th and December 31st. The Town Hall will be closed on Friday, December 20th and will close at 12 pm on December 24th and December 31st. The early closures are due to contractual requirements. We are utilizing the morning of December 20th to recognize Town Hall employees and for customer service training.</p><p><strong>This Weekend</strong></p><ul><li>The St. Thomas’ Church 28th Annual Cookie Sale on Saturday, December 14th 9:30 am to 12 pm. A great way to support others and walk away with homemade cookies and fudge!</li><li>The annual Holiday Party and Sing-a-Long Open House at Plumtrees Schoolhouse on Saturday, December 14th from 1 pm to 3 pm. Town Historian Patrick Wild, music by Billy Michael and Santa. Contact Shani at <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">shaniburkespecht@hotmail.com</span> or 203-501-7594. You can also reach Sheila at 203-501-7717.</li><li>Bethel Winter Guard Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 15th from 9 am to 11 am at the Dodgingtown Fire Department. Reserve your $15 tickets at <a href="https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/pancake-breakfast-with-santa-2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/pancake-breakfast-with-santa-2</a></li></ul><p><strong>BHS Chamber Singers</strong></p><p>The Bethel Public Library is hosting The Bethel High School Chamber Singers on Thursday, December 19th from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Under the direction of Christine Manalo, the singers will perform a short set of music and close with a holiday sing along. Patrons can attend in person or over zoom. Register at <a href="https://www.bethellibrary.org/events/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bethellibrary.org/events/</a> or by calling 203-794-8756. Thanks to an AARP Grant, attendees will have the ability to listen to the event at a volume that suits them simply by using their app enabled device and headphones or earbuds. Thank you, AARP Foundation!</p><p><strong>WorkspaceCT Winter Schedule</strong></p><p>WorkspaceCT has announced its winter schedule for its youth theatre, adult cooking, and other enrichment classes. And on December 21st, they are having two special holiday events – Dance with a Radio City Rockette and a family gingerbread house decorating day (with family friendly prices). Join one or both. Check out their offerings at: <a href="https://www.workspacect.org/events" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.workspacect.org/events</a>.</p><p><strong>Student Loan Relief</strong></p><p>On January 1st a Student Loan Reimbursement Program created by the State Legislature this year will go live. The program will provide qualified recipients up to $5,000 a year with a $20,000 cap over four years. Applicants must be Connecticut residents, graduates from a Connecticut school, have a loan balance, and have volunteered 50 hours for a Connecticut non-profit. Applicants will be awarded on a first-come first-serve basis. Check out <a href="https://www.ohe.ct.gov/Docs/SLRPInformation2025.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.ohe.ct.gov/Docs/SLRPInformation2025.pdf</a>.</p><p><strong>Regional Hospice Cheesecakes</strong></p><p>Ease your holiday load and support Regional Hospice by purchasing one of their delicious, homemade 10-inch cheesecakes that serve 6-10 people. Order by emailing <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">info@regionalhospicect.org</span> by December 18th for pick up at Regional Hospice in Danbury (30 Milestone Road) on December 22nd-24th. Payment of cash, check or credit card is accepted at pick up.</p><p><strong>Shoutouts</strong></p><ul><li>A shoutout to the Bethel businesses who welcomed Bethel’s own bubble tea shop, <a href="https://www.jubiteaandsweets.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jubi Tea & Sweets</a>. It’s a story we hear over and over how our businesses stick together. You are all a class act! Check out the story: <a href="https://www.bethelgrapevine.com/articles/how-a-filmmakers-vision-led-to-bethels-first-bubble-tea-shop" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bethelgrapevine.com/articles/how-a-filmmakers-vision-led-to-bethels-first-bubble-tea-shop</a>.</li><li>A shoutout to the Facilities Staff of the Bethel Public Schools! With 2025-2026 budget discussions on the horizon, members of the Board of Education, Board of Selectmen, and Board of Finance had an opportunity to walk through our schools this week to discuss the maintenance needs ahead. Thank you working with the town to take care of our resources!</li><li>A shoutout to the new 2024 members of the <a href="https://bethelchamberofcommerce.com/directory-bethel_chamb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bethel Chamber of Commerce</a>: <a href="https://ashleybotex.glossgenius.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ashley Hair Salon</a>, <a href="https://www.bethelgrapevine.com/bygone-bethel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Bethel Grapevine</a>, <a href="https://bethelhealthcare.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bethel Healthcare</a>. <a href="https://bluejayorchardsct.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Blue Jay Orchards</a>, and <a href="https://crossfitbethel.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CBF Athletic Club</a>!</li><li>Good Luck to the Lady Wildcats basketball team at their season opener against Wolcott tonight and their home opener on Monday against Staples!</li></ul>
<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Competitive gymnasts representing Kratos Gymnastics of Bethel, CT dominated the competition at the 25th Annual Rhode Island Invitational held at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence Rhode Island on December 6-8, 2024. Gymnasts ranging in age from 7-16 years of age competed in levels Xcel Bronze - Platinum and Level 6! This early competition was the start of the season for nearly all of the Kratos team, and the first competition ever for most Kratos competitors! The remaining competitors set to represent Kratos Gymnastics will begin their season at the Star Struck Invitational in Atlantic City, NJ in January of 2025.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Xcel Bronze</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Avery Hessler: 8yr from Bethel, CT: Earned 7th place on floor & 9th All-Around</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Eva-Anais Lazariu: 7yr from Danbury, CT: Earned 6th place on beam, 5th place on floor, and 11th place All-Around</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Sara Jones: 7yr from Brookfield, CT: Earned 6th place on vault and bars as well as 10th all-around</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Laurel Packard: 7yr from Redding, CT: Earned 4th on floor and 9th all-around</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Xcel Silver</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Maren DeVoe: 7yr from Weston, CT: had her first competition ever and performed beautifully!</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Clare Lindog: 9yr from Danbury, CT: Earned 3rd place on beam and 5th place on floor</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Olivia Rokis: 10yr from Ridgefield, CT: Earned 4th place on bars and all-around, 3rd place on beam, and 1st place on floor</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Margaret Sakai: 11yr from Redding, CT: Earned 3rd place on vault and 1st place on floor</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Adelynn Scott: 8yr from Danbury, CT: Earned 4th place on bars, 1st place on floor, and 5th place all-around</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Taisiia Yanevich: 11yr from Redding, CT: Earned 2nd place on bars</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Xcel Gold</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Hope Lopez: 9yr from Shelton, CT: Earned 6th place on vault, 3rd place on beam, and 5th place all-around</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Norah Michaels: 11yr from Newtown, CT: Earned 4th place on beam</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Anneliese Miller: 13yr from Redding, CT: Earned 5th place on bars and 2nd place on floor</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Xcel Platinum</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Evangeline Dyar: 11yr from Redding, CT: Dominated her level performing some of the most difficult skills allowed earning four out of a possible 5 gold medals on vault, beam, floor, and all-around as well as 3rd place on bars</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Alexia Suter: 16yr from Ridgefield, CT: Earned 2nd place on floor</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Level 6</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This power packed little group of all first year level 6 competitors took fourth place as a team!</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Juliet Gird: 9yr from Darien, CT: Earned 2nd on vault and 7th all-around</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Lauren Mikolajczak: 11yr from Cos Cob, CT: Earned 4th on vault</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Emi Temmoku: 10yr from Old Greenwich, CT: Earned 5th place on beam and 2nd place on floor</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-Dagny Morgan: 10yr from Darien, CT: Dominated the weekend of level 6 competitors earning 1st place on vault, floor, and all-around for her age group, in addition to 3rd place on bars, and 2nd place on beam. She received a special award for attaining the highest all-around score for her session of competition regardless of age group which was also the highest all-around score out of all the level 6 competitors who participated throughout the weekend. </span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>