<h2>Local Business Champion: Ackley Cabinet</h2><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Meet Kim and Scott Ackley, operators of </strong><a href="https://www.ackleycabinet.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Ackley Cabinet.</strong></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: Tell us about the origins of Ackley Cabinet</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Greg Ackley, father of Scott Ackley, founded the business “Ackley Cabinet Refacing” back in 1971. Then in 1973, the business relocated to Stamford CT and Greg began developing a mobile refinishing process to easily service customers’ needs. It eventually transitioned away from furniture to specialize in kitchens with solid wood kitchen cabinet refacing in 1999, in Ridgefield CT. Scott (Greg’s son), joined the company in 2009 to further develop the kitchen refacing technique and refine business operations. Kim, Scott’s wife, joined the company in 2012 as office manager, and now together they operate Ackley Cabinet LLC as a small, family-owned kitchen remodeling business in Bethel CT – helping clients transform their kitchen without a tear-out!</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: What is your best selling product/service?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: As our premier offering, we specialize in a unique, solid wood hybrid refacing process (Forefront Cabinet Recrafting) by designing custom cabinet front frames with new inset doors over existing kitchen cabinet foundations. With our innovative approach, we can also easily re-configure existing cabinets with new storage systems and deep drawers, all-inclusive with European soft-closing hinging and glides. We are passionate about this process because it not only saves our clients time and money, but also “recrafts” solid cabinet boxes that would normally be torn out and tossed in the landfill.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: How many local businesses do you use to support your business (products and services) and can you name them?&nbsp;</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: With nearly 40 years in business in the local Ridgefield/Bethel CT area, we have had the pleasure of collaborating with many local service businesses and independent contractors in the kitchen remodeling industry. For new cabinets Valmir at Beyond Cabinets &amp; Marble in Bethel, Mike at Bethel Glass, Brennan at Classic Refinishers in New Milford, La Pietra and Venezia are both great for stone surfaces, the team at Neves Plumbing in Danbury, Greg and the Waterman Electric crew in Bethel to name a few. We are always happy to support fellow local businesses and look to provide top-notch referrals to our clients.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Q: Have you "reimagined" your small business?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A: Having been in business for 50 years, and Scott joining full-time 15 years ago, the ebb and flow of remodeling and the focus on the kitchen as the heart of the home has shaped our approach to both our technique and methodology. We carry a philosophy of “collaboration” instead of “competition” forward to this day into all our kitchen remodeling projects across CT &amp; NY. As the kitchen design industry continues to evolve, we strive to provide our clients with the best solution to their kitchen problem, even if they are better served by choosing another option outside of our scope of work. We are committed to putting our client’s best interests first and look forward to helping more residential CT homeowners “re-imagine” their existing kitchen space with Forefront Cabinet Recrafting by Ackley.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit Ackley Cabinet online </span><a href="https://www.ackleycabinet.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.ackleycabinet.com/</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Follow along on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AckleyCabinet/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.facebook.com/AckleyCabinet/</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> and Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ackleycabinet/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">ackleycabinet</a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">HamletHub thanks</strong><a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong> </strong></a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Fairfield County Bank </strong></a><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!</strong></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Teacher, Rookie, Pillar of the Year, CHAMP, and Friends of Bethel Award Winners</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center">Each year our schools and the district award a Teacher of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and Pillar of the Year.&nbsp;In addition the district awards the Friend of Bethel and CHAMP award to individuals who have significantly impacted our schools and programs. Please see the recipients below!</p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Congratulations to all!</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong><u>2025 Pillars of Year</u></strong></p><p class="ql-align-center">Bethel High School – Kristan Giroux</p><p class="ql-align-center">Bethel Middle School – Danelle Egan,</p><p class="ql-align-center">Ralph M.T. Johnson School - Julia Malota</p><p class="ql-align-center">Frank A. Berry School – Bernadette Apellaniz-Bryant</p><p class="ql-align-center">Anna H. Rockwell School – Dr. Carolyn Keller</p><p class="ql-align-center">Bethel Public Schools –&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-center">Michael Tonucci</p><p class="ql-align-center">Cyndi Giordano-Donati</p><p class="ql-align-center">Lindsay Jankun-Harsch</p><p class="ql-align-center">Brittany Pizzano</p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong><u>2025 Rookie Teachers of the Year</u></strong></p><p class="ql-align-center">Bethel High School – Lori Spero</p><p class="ql-align-center">Bethel Middle School – Brianna Ferraro</p><p class="ql-align-center">Ralph M.T. Johnson School - Nicole Bentson</p><p class="ql-align-center">Frank A. Berry School – Kayleigh Murphy</p><p class="ql-align-center">Anna H. Rockwell School – Noemi Gristina</p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong><u>2025 Teachers of the Year</u></strong></p><p class="ql-align-center">Bethel High School – Dr. Reine Issa</p><p class="ql-align-center">Bethel Middle School –Marie Jowdy</p><p class="ql-align-center">Ralph M.T. Johnson School - Gregory Reid</p><p class="ql-align-center">Frank A. Berry School - Aimee Bajor</p><p class="ql-align-center">Anna H. Rockwell School – Elaine O'Keeffe</p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong><u>2025 Friends of Bethel Award</u></strong></p><p class="ql-align-center">Greg Henry, Parent, All Sports Booster Club President &amp; School Volunteer</p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong><u>2025 CHAMP Award</u></strong></p><p class="ql-align-center">Brandon Husvar, Network Administrator</p><p class="ql-align-center">​​​​Creativity, Innovation, &amp; Excellence Recognition 2025</p><p class="ql-align-center">We give recognition to staff members who demonstrate creativity &amp; innovation for the students in the Bethel Public Schools, aligned to our mission, core beliefs, and strategic focus areas.</p><p class="ql-align-center">Aimee Bajor</p><p class="ql-align-center">Diana Bernardo</p><p class="ql-align-center">Christy Bibb</p><p class="ql-align-center">Zachary Craybas</p><p class="ql-align-center">Irene Drake</p><p class="ql-align-center">Melissa Dube</p><p class="ql-align-center">Catherine Emerick</p><p class="ql-align-center">Heather Farisello</p><p class="ql-align-center">Robyn Gerety</p><p class="ql-align-center">Danielle Legnard</p><p class="ql-align-center">Sheila Levine</p><p class="ql-align-center">Sabrina Luis</p><p class="ql-align-center">Danielle Lynch</p><p class="ql-align-center">Taryn McCormick</p><p class="ql-align-center">Gina McKenzie</p><p class="ql-align-center">Laura Montero</p><p class="ql-align-center">Jeff Moscowitz</p><p class="ql-align-center">Kelly Muckell</p><p class="ql-align-center">Kit Nielsen</p><p class="ql-align-center">Joe Perreault</p><p class="ql-align-center">Donna Rick</p><p class="ql-align-center">Debbie Tierney</p><p class="ql-align-center">Samatha Tisi</p><p class="ql-align-center">Danielle Troetti</p><p class="ql-align-center">Kim Trombetto</p><p>​</p>

<p><strong>Attention Aquarion Customers</strong></p><p>The Aquarion wells serving Newtown and Bethel were flooded las August due to a collapse of a rail trestle bridge near the Pootatuck River. Unfortunately, the wells remain out of service. Aquarion is announcing a non-essential outdoor water ban and a moratorium on new connections for the rest of the year, or until the river flow is restored. Lawn irrigation, car washing, exterior building washing, and filling pools are non-essential. Expect a letter and a call from Aquarion in the next month or so with details and commercial exceptions.</p><p><strong>Motor Vehicle Tax</strong></p><p>A repeat question about motor vehicle taxes in CT: If you park your car in Bethel, and you pay taxes on your car to another state or town, is your car still taxed in Bethel? Yes, where your car is garaged, not primary residence, determines where the car is taxed. If you own a vehicle with an out of state plate or you moved in from another town in CT, please register your car in Bethel with the DMV or contact the tax assessor. Otherwise, you may still receive a tax bill from Bethel, including a fee for collecting the tax.</p><p><strong>Bethel Patriotic Association</strong></p><p>The Bethel Patriotic Association has a long history of supporting patriotic events in town, most notably the Memorial Day Parade. If you are interested in joining the group, please email&nbsp;<span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">haganwilliam87@gmail.com</span></p><p><strong>Traffic Signs</strong></p><p>You may notice some new traffic signs around Bethel, including arrows at “T” intersections. These were provided by the CT DOT as part of an effort to improve safety on our roads.</p><p><strong>Irish Flag Raising</strong></p><p>Don’t miss a Bethel tradition! Join friends and neighbors for the Raising of the Irish Flag on PT Barnum Square at 9 am on Monday, March 17th at 9 am in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. After the raising, the group will head over to Town Hall for another flag raising and refreshments. In case of inclement weather, the celebration will meet at Town Hall.</p><p><strong>Walk Audit Presentation</strong></p><p>Last year the members of the Sustainable Bethel Commission completed a “walk audit” in Stony Hill to learn more about pedestrian safety issues. Their audit was helpful in securing a Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant to help Bethel create a plan to address traffic safety in town. If you haven’t seen the presentation, Sustainable Bethel will present the summary to the Board of Selectmen on Tuesday, March 18th at 7 pm at Town Hall in Meeting Room A.</p><p><strong>Budget Hearing</strong></p><p>Final notice! Don’t forget the public hearing on the budget next Wednesday, March 19th at the Bethel High School auditorium at 7 pm.&nbsp;The Board of Finance will make necessary modifications on March 20th and present the budget to the Town Meeting on April 2nd at the Bethel High School auditorium at 7 pm. Check out the proposed budget here:&nbsp;<a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/depts-comptroller" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/depts-comptroller</a>.</p><p><strong>Rockwell PTO Comedy Night</strong></p><p>Rockwell School PTO is hosting a Comedy Night at Greenwood Features on Saturday, March 22nd. Not only do they have a fantastic lineup of talent, including Rockwell’s funniest teacher, Tony Liberati, the silent auction will benefit Rockwell School!</p><p>&nbsp;<a href="https://givebutter.com/c/Wgma0q" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://givebutter.com/c/Wgma0q</a></p><p><strong>WorkspaceCT Summer Programs</strong></p><p>WorkspaceCT’s summer program schedule for kids and teens has been released! They are offering several enriching programs: Woodworking, STEM, Theatre, Cooking, Arts &amp; Crafting, and more. They have also added an option for extended hours to help busy/working parents.&nbsp;There is a 15% discount if you register by March 31st. Use code: EARLYBIRD15.&nbsp;Find info here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.workspacect.org/summerprograms" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.workspacect.org/summerprograms</a></p><p><strong>Shoutouts</strong></p><ul><li>A huge shoutout to Greg Henry who is the 2025 Friends of Bethel Award winner, presented by the Bethel Public Schools! Greg’s leadership in All Sports Booster Club and his commitment to the schools made him an easy choice!</li><li>A late shoutout to the Bethel Debate Team who had another amazing performance at the March debate tournament in Ridgefield. Josephina Howard and Andrew Santiago placed 6th overall in varsity.&nbsp;Toshan Bhattachyra and Joey Corigliano placed 11th and Max Salvestrini and Shravya Mankala came in Willa Zalaznick took 3rd speaker overall, Josephina was 5th place, Jack Woleck took 8th and Toshan was 11th.&nbsp;</li><li>In the novice division, the team of Radha Sinha and Trisha Sharma came in 2nd, Bhuvan Sai Dasari and Akhil Sharma were 12th, Peter Gardella and Jacqui Eng were 13th, and Aarna Doshi and Zia Arakal were 16th. For novice speakers, Aarna placed 2nd overall, Trisha was 8th, Peter Gardella was 10th, Bhuvan was 11th, and Radha was 12th. Great Job!</li><li>A shoutout to Pat Rist for her service as President of the Bethel Historical Society! The society is a non-profit group that seeks to educate, preserve and promote Bethel’s rich heritage. Pat led so many efforts to promote awareness of the town’s history, including sculptor David Gesauldi’s life-sized statue of P.T. Barnum in front of the Bethel Library, restoration of the WWI Doughboy statue in P.T. Barnum Square, walking tours, and celebrations of key historic commemorative events, including a parade for P.T. Barnum’s 200th birthday celebration. Thank you, Pat!</li><li>Congrats to Mary Ferri as the new President of the Bethel Historical Society! If you’re interested in the town’s history, please sign up today to become a member of the Historical Society. Membership forms can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bethelhistoricalsociety.com/index2-membership.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethelhistoricalsociety.com/index2-membership.htm</a></li><li>Good luck to the Lady Wildcats tomorrow night who are taking on Northwest Catholic at Mohegan Sun in their first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ctinsider.com/gametimect/girls-basketball/article/bethel-bristol-central-ciac-class-l-result-20213030.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">State Championship</a>! You have all worked so hard to get here and we are all so excited for tomorrow! Tickets for the 6:15 pm game are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://am.ticketmaster.com/mohegan/buy/CIAC" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ticketmaster</a>. The game can be viewed live stream at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/ciac/gamfbb2fda6c7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/ciac/gamfbb2fda6c7</a>.</li><li>Good luck to our swim team who are competing in the state competition tomorrow!</li><li>Congrats to YeeJun Ng and Luke Richardson who earned all-state and academic all-state for indoor track!</li></ul><p>*Image courtesy Christine Carver, Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/christinelcarver" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/christinelcarver</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC Buzz Weekend March 14 - March 16</strong></p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/acts-of-beauty---featuring-katie-bassett-nicole-bricker-6c731" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Acts of Beauty</strong></a></p><p><strong>Jim Felice Studios, Bethel</strong></p><p>Friday Mar 14, 11:00 am -5:00 pm</p><p>Trailer Box Project presents "Acts of Beauty" featuring Artists Katie Bassett and Nicole Bricker. Artist talk March 15th, the show closes April 19, 2025</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/my-story-revealed-a-global-student-art-show---closing-reception" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>​"My Story Revealed", A Global Student Art Show - Closing Reception</strong></a></p><p><strong>New Canaan Library, New Canaan</strong></p><p>Friday Mar 14, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm</p><p>This exhibition is a powerful representation of our work and our mission, and we can't wait to share it with you one last time. Come enjoy the artwork ,connect with the stories behind them and meet new friends. Don’t miss this final opportunity to experience My Story Revealed!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/biophilia-6823d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Biophilia</strong></a></p><p><strong>Flinn Gallery, Greenwich</strong></p><p>Friday Mar 14, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm</p><p>Drawing inspiration from both real and imagined aspects of the natural world, these artists explore the intersection of nature, imagination, and technology. Their diverse practices reflect personal connections to the environment, sustainability, and the fragility of life. Their works are expressed through a dynamic range of 2D and 3D materials, textures, and colors. Using a range of materials and techniques—from traditional painting to upcycled sculptures—they offer unique perspectives on ecological responsibility and the evolving relationship between humans and the Earth.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-met-live-in-hd---beethoven-s-fidelio" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Beethoven’s Fidelio</strong></a></p><p><strong>Quick Center for the Arts, Fairfield</strong></p><p>Saturday Mar 15, 1:00 pm - 4:15 pm</p><p>After a series of mesmerizing Live in HD performances, Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen returns to the Metropolitan Opera as Leonore, the devoted wife who risks all to rescue her husband from tyranny in Beethoven’s Fidelio. The stellar cast includes British tenor David Butt Philip as the political prisoner Florestan, Polish bass-baritone Tomasz Konieczny as the villainous Don Pizarro, veteran German bass René Pape as the jailer Rocco, Chinese soprano Ying Fang and German tenor Magnus Dietrich as the young Marzelline and Jaquino, and Danish bass Stephen Milling as the principled Don Fernando. Susanna Mälkki conducts the performance.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/kenji-nakahashi-strange-beauty-a34ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Kenji Nakahashi: Strange Beauty</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bruce Museum, Greenwich</strong></p><p>Saturday Mar 15, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm</p><p>Best known for his conceptual and street photography, Kenji Nakahashi (Japanese, 1947–2017) produced a highly experimental body of work grounded in the everyday.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/open-day-at-new-pond-farm-education-center" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Open Day</strong></a></p><p><strong>New Pond Farm Education Center, Redding</strong></p><p>Sunday Mar 16, 10:30 am - 1:00 pm</p><p>Stop by anytime between 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. to learn more about our stunning landscape, the diverse habitats, our fascinating history, the varied wildlife, the multitude of educational opportunities, in addition to our warm and welcoming staff.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/all-that-jazz-sunday-soundscapes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>All That Jazz! Sunday Soundscapes</strong></a></p><p><strong>Weston Public Library, Weston</strong></p><p>Sunday Mar 16, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm</p><p>“All That Jazz!” introduces two new voices from the New York jazz scene – guitarist Matthew Rotker-Lynn and vocalist Ariana Stefanidis. TheIr renditions of jazz classics, bossa nova hits and original compositions are sure to warm up your spring!</p>

<p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Upcoming Adult Programs at Bethel Public Library</strong></p><p><em style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Full descriptions of all Library events are available at </em><a href="https://o9vh5xbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xIBOCqbu9EfKtvaa1gBrKOhspsjvrWLWQQrnThsZIXyI28q3clbBV4WZRkQidNIzRR9QgbzuhgWa4Mftonb4NYbtnmvgteYd0Ceucrt2YxS3guC1FwDg86Z093f0kG69jIEaPXYXQGdQ6teF0pSFbLhIlcni4Bq1k7nv0C6voXU=&amp;c=zTv37kI-RL2RsAo1OXjsSmUlEymBrAV12ilUNgi9bYueiAbf50BfZw==&amp;ch=1f-eaukLvPmXhYBRHvdvUg8IQJD7rmqsNpMzB7Md86R_wfz8KzxVNw==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><em>bethellibrary.org/events</em></a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Social Security Strategies &amp; Your Retirement Future</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Thursday, March 13</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6:30-7:30 PM</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In Person and on Zoom</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This event offers a great opportunity to learn key concepts you need to know before applying for Social Security. Depending on your age, Social Security filing strategies may boost lifetime benefits and increase retirement income by tens of thousands.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A 30 year industry veteran, Financial Service Advisor Michael Alimo has served clientele around CT and New England at his USA Financial &amp; Tax Services, LLC. Services include comprehensive financial planning; investment and portfolio management; and business and estate tax planning.&nbsp;</span></p><p><a href="https://o9vh5xbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xIBOCqbu9EfKtvaa1gBrKOhspsjvrWLWQQrnThsZIXyI28q3clbBVy9vur_kmhWZJOkYzoqdRrx10cbpy25HiN696pjQb8Iqnu2KSjdQQyT_ZY96aVISTxJ2034k3ANOf72uATvJx9gWQZapFyMbTk_Xs1FejHMCC2iePLdBIFMfk1sCFgkDlZelqfGqlLQWMB4OGcg9zvZND8AJ6s3ouvgT9rdfnx9XckEEVC3LscXhOTUF8t9O1BEqa0DQHYbfXYMBZDNu4_8=&amp;c=zTv37kI-RL2RsAo1OXjsSmUlEymBrAV12ilUNgi9bYueiAbf50BfZw==&amp;ch=1f-eaukLvPmXhYBRHvdvUg8IQJD7rmqsNpMzB7Md86R_wfz8KzxVNw==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Click Here to Register</a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Monday Night Movie: Afraid</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Monday, March 17</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6:00-8:00 PM</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Rated PG-13</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A family is selected to test a new home device: a digital assistant called AIA. She observes the family's behaviors and begins to anticipate their needs. And she can and will make sure nothing &amp; no one gets in her family's way.</span></p><p><a href="https://o9vh5xbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xIBOCqbu9EfKtvaa1gBrKOhspsjvrWLWQQrnThsZIXyI28q3clbBVy9vur_kmhWZdEecOtBypx6CF2AqBTwK2eui-VXEBlfYfF8dyRJcXhWZdZ6Ac7TrXtjiYW0Z0IS01uG8K3dpfG7qOUxHlWSzOT8A2VTtZdSeQQz9i-B0I23z7Uu7EffAs2L28OoTWR3VxbtSdk6WNDAFvAU_2JCY_ByRcwFcalq8&amp;c=zTv37kI-RL2RsAo1OXjsSmUlEymBrAV12ilUNgi9bYueiAbf50BfZw==&amp;ch=1f-eaukLvPmXhYBRHvdvUg8IQJD7rmqsNpMzB7Md86R_wfz8KzxVNw==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Click Here to Register</a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Morning Book Chat: The House of Eve</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Tuesday, March 18</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10:15-11:30 AM</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Set in 1950's Philadelphia and Washington, DC, this novel tells the story of two different young women, one a 15 year old in a taboo love affair and the other a college student who hopes a baby will make her fit in with her husband's family. With their stories colliding in the most unexpected of ways, they will both make decisions that shape the trajectory of their lives.</span></p><p><a href="https://o9vh5xbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xIBOCqbu9EfKtvaa1gBrKOhspsjvrWLWQQrnThsZIXyI28q3clbBVy9vur_kmhWZaKsILA5POiMJHxw3CxVoF3qGrQ2wC4w59VR0gCDGtKPHMztcSJFG_WKnZNFt4GkB3cKLriQ4v9-fSyABtW8gD9zyiFUzz25EEjK6V8yHD-hqkb95hYlbyjZFYHQYVa-nMD4hoNvXub4EO8GyEn2UjkXRar2zhK_k&amp;c=zTv37kI-RL2RsAo1OXjsSmUlEymBrAV12ilUNgi9bYueiAbf50BfZw==&amp;ch=1f-eaukLvPmXhYBRHvdvUg8IQJD7rmqsNpMzB7Md86R_wfz8KzxVNw==" 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><strong>Motor Vehicle Tax</strong></p><p>Last year the State Legislature changed the way Bethel values motor vehicles from using the JD Powers Book to a depreciation model based on MSRP. The change essentially created an $828,000 reduction in revenue for the budget that would shift tax burden from motor vehicles to properties in town. The Governor signed a bill this week to allow towns to adopt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cga.ct.gov/2025/TOB/H/PDF/2025HB-07067-R00-HB.PDF" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">a new depreciation schedule</a>&nbsp;that essentially helps towns to phase in the shift in taxes from cars to properties.</p><p><strong>Charter Revision</strong></p><p>The Charter Revision Commission met this week. Among the concepts discussed, were moving to a 5-member board of selectmen and a 4-year term for members of the Board of Selectmen. The commission decided not to recommend a 5-member Board of Selectmen, but recommended a 4-year term for the Board of Selectmen. There will be a few public hearings this spring on all the recommendations and final recommendations will need to be voted on by the town. Charter changes will likely be on the November municipal election ballot.</p><p><strong>Budget</strong></p><p>The Board of Finance has completed a budget proposal and there will be a public hearing on Wednesday, March 19th at the Bethel High School auditorium at 7 pm.&nbsp;The Board of Finance will make necessary modifications on March 20th and present the budget to the Town Meeting on April 2nd at the Bethel High School auditorium at 7 pm. Check out the proposed budget here:&nbsp;<a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/depts-comptroller" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/depts-comptroller</a>.</p><p><strong>GoNetspeed Construction</strong></p><p>The folks at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gonetspeed.com/connecticut/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">GoNetspeed</a>&nbsp;have informed us that they have completed construction in town. Wile we may not see a fleet of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gonetspeed.com/connecticut/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">GoNetspeed</a>&nbsp;trucks and workers around town, their high-speed fiber internet will be here to serve a little over 3,000 residents and businesses! If you are interested in the service, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gonetspeed.com/connecticut/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.gonetspeed.com/connecticut/</a>. Thanks, GoNetspeed for additional tool to help our local businesses and residents!</p><p><strong>Office Hours</strong></p><p>Questions or comments on anything Bethel, stop by for Office Hours on Tuesday, March 11th between 5 pm and 6:30 pm.</p><p><strong>Town Meeting</strong></p><p>There will be a Town Meeting on Tuesday, March 11th at 6:30 pm in the Town Hall Meeting Room A. Our charter requires a town meeting for any lease longer than 5 years. We are leasing our new voting tabulators for the state for $1.00 and the lease runs for 10 years. It’s a formality, but anyone who is a registered voter is welcome to stop in.</p><p><strong>P&amp;Z Hearings</strong></p><p>On Tuesday, March 11th at 7:00 pm at Town Hall in Conference Room D, the Planning &amp; Zoning</p><p>Commission will continue public hearings for 105 Milwaukee Ave. (8-30g affordable housing 12 units) and 53 Taylor Ave. (8-30g affordable housing 26 units) Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-zoning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-zoning</a>.</p><p><strong>Community Calendar</strong></p><p>Have an event to advertise? Don’t forget about the Bethel Community Calendar where residents and businesses can view, submit, and share local events. Check out and bookmark&nbsp;<a href="https://events.bethel-ct.gov/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://events.bethel-ct.gov/</a>.</p><p><strong>Spring Equinox Drum Circle</strong></p><p>A drum circle might sound strange if you haven’t been to one, but everyone should try it sometime. Getting lost in the rhythm is an interesting experience! In celebration of the Spring Equinox, join the Spring Equinox Drum Circle tomorrow, March 8th from 3 pm to 4:30 pm at the gazebo in front of Town Hall. All backgrounds (those with or without prior drumming experience) and ages are welcome. Some percussion instruments will be available, but feel free to bring your own. Suggested donation $5 (to cover the cost of the facility. No personnel are paid for this circle).</p><p><strong>Congresswoman Hayes Town Hall</strong></p><p>Congresswoman Jahana Hayes is hosting a Town Hall on the federal budget this Sunday, March 5th from 2 pm to 3 pm at Avon High School, 510 W. Avon Rd. in Avon. Doors open at 1:45 pm.</p><p><strong>Urinetown the Musical</strong></p><p>Don’t forget the The Bethel High School On Stage Players will be performing Urinetown The Musical next weekend. See the show at Bethel High School on Friday, March 14th at 7 pm, Saturday March 15th at 7 pm, or Sunday March 16th at 2 pm. Adults $16 and Seniors and Students are $13. For information and tickets, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bhstheaterboosters.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bhstheaterboosters.com/</a>.</p><p><strong>Parm Dinner</strong></p><p><a href="St.Thomas" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">St.Thomas</a>’ Church is hosting their Chicken/Egplant Parm dinner on Saturday, March 15th from 5 pm to 7 pm. Dinner includes chicken and eggplant parm, pasta, salad, bread and dessert. Reservations are appreciated, especially for the Take-Outs. Dining and Take-Out pick-ups start at 5 pm. Adults are $15, kids under 16 are $8 with a family maximum of $45. For info and reservations, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stthomasbethel.org/Dinner" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.stthomasbethel.org/Dinner</a>.</p><p><strong>Shoutouts!</strong></p><ul><li>Huge shoutouts, congrats, and accolades to both the Boys and Girls basketball teams who have advanced to the state semifinals! The Lady Wildcats play Bristol at Naugatuck High School on Monday, March 10th at 5 pm and the Boys play Bunnell at Newtown High School on Monday at 7 pm. Good Luck!!</li><li>Good Luck to the BBDI IceCats in the opening round of States on Monday, March 10th at 3pm at the Danbury ice Arena!</li><li>As this update is being written, both the IceCats and Swim team are battling for championships!&nbsp;Go get em!</li><li>Congratulations to Beth Cavagna, our Town Planner, and Bob Dibble, our Highway Superintendent, on your well-deserved retirements! We appreciate your service to Bethel and wish you the best!</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p>