Stories
<p><strong>Property Assessments</strong></p><p>If you received a tax assessment notice this week, it is NOT a bill. Bills go out in the summer. You may appeal your assessment to the Board of Assessment Appeals. Applications will be available on February 1st in the Assessor's Office at Town Hall and online. Applications must be received between February 1st and February 20th of each year. The Board will consider applications at meetings during the month of March.</p><p><strong>2025-2026 Budget</strong></p><p>We had some tough news this week. Skyrocketing healthcare insurance costs and electric rates are going to have significant effects on both the school and town budgets. We will have a better Idea where the town stands in February. Our Superintendent will be presenting proposals and options for the school budget to the Board of Education on Thursday, January 30th at 7 pm. Live stream will be available at <a href="http://devos2.bethel.k12.ct.us/show?video=763ff4de0370" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://devos2.bethel.k12.ct.us/show?video=763ff4de0370</a>. The agenda and documents will be available next week at <a href="https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/2425" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/2425</a>.</p><p><strong>Teen Center Open to 6th Graders</strong></p><p>BIG NEWS from the Teen Center! The Teen Center is available for 6th graders as a trial for the months of February and March. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 3:30-5 pm and Fridays from 5:30-8:30pm with our open gym program that follows from 8:30-10 pm. Activities include baking, cooking, board games, video games, puzzles, crafts and more! Transportation available from the middle school. Email <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">teencenter@bethel-ct.gov</span> or call 203-778-7522 for more information.</p><p><strong>Library Board of Directors</strong></p><p>Do you have a Library Card? Interesting in an active position on a board? The Library Board of Directors is a very active board that has a huge impact on our community through programs offered at the Bethel Public Library. While appointed boards, especially the Library Board, are not political in nature, our charter has requirements for membership from political parties. We are looking for a registered Republican, a registered Independent, or an unaffiliated voter. If interested, please email <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov</span>.</p><p><strong>Office Hours</strong></p><p>The next Office Hours is this Monday, January 27th from 7:30 am to 8:30 am at Town Hall in the First Selectman Office. Feel free to stop by with questions or concerns. You can always make an appointment for another time at 203-794-8540 or <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov</span>.</p><p><strong>P&Z Hearings</strong></p><p>On Tuesday, January 28th at 7:00 pm at Town Hall in Conference Room D, the Planning & Zoning</p><p>Commission will continue public hearings for 20 Trowbridge Dr. (Site Plan) and 105 Milwaukee Ave. (8-30g affordable housing 12 units). The commission will begin a new public hearing for 53 Taylor Ave. (8-30g affordable housing 26 units) Learn more at <a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-public-hearing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-public-hearing</a> and <a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-zoning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-zoning</a>.</p><p><strong>AARP Tax-Aide</strong></p><p>The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is returning to the Bethel Public Library to prepare tax returns on Wednesdays starting at 10:15 am, between February 5th and April 9th. Contact the Library at 203-794-8756 or visit <a href="http://www.bethellibrary.org/events" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.bethellibrary.org/events</a> to make an appointment. Spaces fill up fast! While this service is open to all CT residents there are certain types of taxes the service cannot file. For more info visit <a href="https://taxaide.aarpfoundation.org/types-of-tax-returns-tax-aide-can-prepare" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://taxaide.aarpfoundation.org/types-of-tax-returns-tax-aide-can-prepare</a></p><p><strong>Dress Exchange</strong></p><p>If you have formal dresses, fancy cloths, or accessories that you could part with, you can make someone’s prom more special! The St. Thomas’ Formal Dress Exchange drop off is on Wednesday, February 5th from 10 am to 7 pm at 95 Greenwood Ave. The Dress Exchange event takes place the following weekend and is open to anyone needing formal attire, regardless of ability to donate. For information email <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">dawnfaw@aol.com</span> or call 203-770-3525.</p><p><strong>Post Prom</strong></p><p>With Prom on the horizon, let’s begin the effort to avert a community tragedy and keep our Seniors safe on Prom Night! Post Prom is an annual alcohol and drug free event held to keep our kids and community safe on prom night. You will likely see fundraisers pop up between now and the spring, but residents can start contributing now via Venmo at @BHS-PTSO. Please add Post Prom to the memo.</p><p><strong>Aaron Goldberg Trio</strong></p><p>Tickets are selling fast for the special performance of the Aaron Goldberg Trio sponsored by Bethel Arts at the Visual & Performing Arts Center at WestConn on Saturday, February 8th. The concert will raise funds for Bethel Arts programs. Visit <a href="http://www.bethelartsct.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.bethelartsct.org</a> for concert info and tickets. Check out the article in the Bethel Grapevine about the trio at <a href="http://www.bethelgrapevine.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.bethelgrapevine.com</a>.</p><p><strong>Economic Outlook Presentation</strong></p><p>The Director of Research and Head of the Research and Statistics Group at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Kartik Athreya, will be in Bethel to share insights on the current economic outlook with a special focus on regional business conditions on Thursday, February 13th at 4:00 pm at Greenwood Features. Email <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">eddirector@bethel-ct.gov</span> for information or click <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/economic-outlook-with-a-focus-on-regional-business-conditions-tickets-1137963693039?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> to register. Sponsored by Newtown Savings Bank.</p><p><strong>Shoutouts</strong></p><p>Congrats to the Girls and Boys basketball teams for their victories over Brookfield this week! Texting their First Selectman to rub it in!</p><p>A shoutout to the Community Partnership crew who brighten our days in Town Hall! And to Daily Fare for supporting their “coffee cart!”</p><p>Way to go Ice Cats for a shutout victory of 4 – 0 over Newtown-New Fairfield this week!</p><p>Congrats to out Athletes of the Week, Fiona Dunleavy and Matthew Tarzia, for wins in their weight class!</p><p>A big shoutout to Ingersoll Auto for your grant to the Bethel High School STEM program!</p>
<p><strong>Economic and Business Outlook with Kartik Athreya of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York</strong></p><p><strong>Bethel, CT - January 24, 2025. </strong>Don’t miss a unique opportunity to engage with a leading expert in economic research. <a href="https://www.newyorkfed.org/aboutthefed/orgchart/athreya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;"><strong>Kartik Athreya</strong></a>, Director of Research and Head of the Research and Statistics Group at the <strong>Federal Reserve Bank of New York</strong>, will share his insights on the current economic outlook with a special focus on regional business conditions on <strong>February 13th at 4:00 PM</strong>.</p><p>The event offers attendees an opportunity to hear directly from Mr. Athreya, whose expertise includes economics, policy analysis, and regional economic trends. The event will feature a presentation followed by a moderated Q&A session, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions and engage with a leading expert in the field.</p><p><strong>Event Details:</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Date:</strong> February 13, 2025</li><li><strong>Time:</strong> 4:00 PM</li><li><strong>Location:</strong> Greenwood Features, 269 Greenwood Ave., Bethel CT</li><li><strong>Speaker:</strong> Kartik Athreya, Director of Research and Head of the Research & Statistics Group, Federal Reserve Bank of New York</li><li><strong>Sponsor:</strong> Newtown Savings Bank</li></ol><p>This event is proudly supported by a wide range of local organizations, including <strong>Brookfield Economic and Community Development</strong>, <strong>Newtown Economic and Community Development and Economic Development Commission, Small Business Development Center (SBDC)</strong>, <strong>Small Business Administration (SBA)</strong>, <strong>Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC)</strong>, <strong>Bethel Chamber of Commerce</strong>, and <strong>SCORE</strong>. These organizations are committed to fostering growth and supporting local businesses, making this event an invaluable opportunity to the region.</p><p><strong>Seating is Limited!</strong></p><p>Due to limited availability, interested attendees are encouraged to secure their spots as soon as possible. To register for the event, please visit:</p><p><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/economic-outlook-with-a-focus-on-regional-business-conditions-tickets-1137963693039?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/economic-outlook-with-a-focus-on-regional-business-conditions-tickets-1137963693039?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios</a></p><p>Don’t miss this unique opportunity to gain valuable insights that can shape your understanding of the economic landscape. Register today and join us for an engaging and informative session! This event is also open to media, to RSVP please contact <span style="color: blue;">Eddirector@bethel-ct.gov</span>. </p>
<p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Celebrate 25 Years of the Ridgefield Playhouse: Become a Member Today!</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">This year marks a significant milestone for the Ridgefield Playhouse as we celebrate 25 years of inspiring and enriching the community through performing arts. There’s never been a better time to become a member and support this cherished cultural gem!</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Membership Has Its Privileges</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">By becoming a member, you’re not only helping preserve and grow a beloved community institution but also gaining access to incredible perks: early ticket access, VIP parking, invitations to exclusive events, and more.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Membership options start at just $120 per year and offer levels to suit every kind of patron—from single memberships to the all-inclusive concierge membership. No matter your level, your support contributes to fulfilling the Playhouse’s mission: </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">to entertain, enrich, and educate our community and surrounding areas, and to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds.</em></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">MEMBERSHIP LEVELS & BENEFITS</span></h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">SINGLE MEMBERSHIP $120</span></h3><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Ability to purchase up to two tickets before the public</span></li></ul><p><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE SINGLE MEMBERSHIP</a></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Family MEMBERSHIP $200</span></h3><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Ability to purchase up to four tickets before the public</span></li></ul><p><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE FAMILY MEMBERSHIP</a></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Gold MEMBERSHIP $500</span></h3><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Ability to purchase up to eight tickets before the public</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">VIP Parking</span></li></ul><p><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE GOLD MEMBERSHIP</a></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Platinum MEMBERSHIP $750</span></h3><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Ability to purchase up to ten tickets before the public</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Invitation to Annual Holiday Party</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">VIP Parking</span></li></ul><p><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP</a></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">DIAMOND MEMBERSHIP $1,200</span></h3><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Ability to purchase up to 12 tickets before the public</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Invitation to Annual Holiday Party</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">VIP Parking</span></li></ul><p><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE DIAMOND MEMBERSHIP</a></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP $3,500</span></h3><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Advance notice of events</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Patron liaison for all ticketing needs***</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">The ability to purchase 2 Premium Orchestra reserved seats for every event*</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Ability to purchase additional tickets</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">VIP Parking</span></li></ul><p><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Learn more about Ridgefield Playhouse and find out what’s on stage </span><a href="https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/</a></p>
<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Set sail for an evening of inspiration and adventure at "Meet the Royal Family", hosted by Jim and Mary Villamana and taking place at Armando's Restaurant, 47 Stony Hill Road, Bethel, CT, on February 5th at 6:00 pm.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Discover the world of cruising with an exclusive presentation featuring Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises—three exceptional cruise lines under the Royal Caribbean Group umbrella. Whether you’re dreaming of a family escape, a luxurious retreat, or a globe-trotting adventure, this event has something for everyone.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Join us for a glass of wine and light bites as we explore the exciting possibilities these cruise lines offer.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We look forward to seeing you there! But space is limited so remember to RSVP early to reserve your spot.</span><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> RSVP </strong><a href="https://promo.expediacruises.com/900221/900221tribrand2025/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>here</strong></a><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</strong></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Questions? Email Mary Villamana </strong><a href="mailto:mvillamana@expediacruises.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>mvillamana@expediacruises.com</strong></a><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </strong></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC Buzz Weekend January 24-26</strong></p><p>HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/night-at-the-museum-wild-wetlands" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Night at the Museum Wild Wetlands</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bruce Museum</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 24, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm</p><p>A family evening of crafts, activities, and adventures for kids of all ages. Come dressed in your favorite pajamas or duck-inspired attire!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/norwalk-symphony-s-annual-young-artists-festival-concerto-competition" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Norwalk Symphony's Annual Young Artists Festival & Concerto Competition</strong></a></p><p><strong>Norwalk Concert Hall</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 25, 11:30 am - 5:00 pm</p><p>Festival 1 & 2 will start at 11:30 on Saturday, January 25 at Norwalk City Hall. Junior and Senior Competitions will run concurrently. The Concerto Competition will start at 2:00pm in the Concert Hall.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-met-live-in-hd---verdi-s-aida" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Verdi’s Aida</strong></a></p><p><strong>Quick Center for the Arts</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 25, 12:30 pm - 4:15 pm</p><p>American soprano Angel Blue takes the lead as the Ethiopian princess caught between love and country in a new production of Verdi’s Aida by Michael Mayer. The staging immerses audiences in the grandeur of ancient Egypt with intricate projections and dazzling animations. Romanian-Hungarian mezzo-soprano Judit Kutasi stars as Aida’s rival, Amneris, alongside Polish tenor Piotr Beczała as the soldier Radamès, completing opera’s greatest love triangle. Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts the performance.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/new-year-new-members-our-annual-new-member-exhibit-2f464" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>New Year-New Members Our Annual New Member Exhibit</strong></a></p><p><strong>Loft Artists Association</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 25, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>Featuring recent work of five new Loft Artists members. The exhibition includes work from; Chantal Disler, Jeff Hyman, Christine Kwon, David Pollard, Marc VanDermeer.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artist-talk-anette-millington" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Artist Talk: Anette Millington</strong></a></p><p><strong>Center for Contemporary Printmaking</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 25, 2:00 pm -3:00 pm</p><p>Anette Millington is an Assistant Professor of Fashion Systems and Materiality at Parsons School of Design and Associate Director of the Textiles MFA Program. Her interdisciplinary creative practice focuses on patterns and spans print, textiles, and sculpture. Anette abstracts flora and fauna—flowers, butterfly wings— to design new protective surfaces and symbols. She explores the psychological dimension of symmetry, building magic and metaphor from mathematics. In her Artist Talk, Anette will share more about her residency project: creating small-scale sculptures from wood-block printed paper.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/new-barrel-launch-event-for-sono-1420-finished-at-sea-bourbon" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>New Barrel Launch Event for SONO 1420 Finished at Sea Bourbon</strong></a></p><p><strong>SoNo 1420 America's Maritime Distillery</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 25, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>1420 Finished at Sea bourbon follows in the traditions of pre-prohibition bourbon makers who aged their whiskey on flatboats floating on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Instead of flatboats on rivers, SONO 1420 whiskey is aged and exposed to the elements on the Long Island Sound aboard oyster boats operated by Norwalk, Connecticut’s Copps Island Oysters. The result? A full-bodied bourbon that embodies SONO 1420’s maritime environment while embracing the whiskey making traditions of old.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/reflections-on-light-eea14" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>"Reflections on Light"</strong></a></p><p><strong>Heather Gaudio Fine Art</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 25, 10:30 am - 5:30 pm</p><p>Creating the visual discourse at the gallery will be paintings by Miya Ando , Pegan Brooke and Kathleen Jacobs alongside sculptures by Ann Gardner. These artists share a preoccupation with the nature of light and its ephemeral qualities. Fleeting aspects and impermanent moments are harnessed and captured into serene visual experiences intended to give the viewer pause and consider our relationship with nature. Each artist uses their specific medium and unique process to create beautifully contemplative and nuanced artworks that are sublime records of time, place and experiences. Including Miya Ando’s work in the exhibition is made possible with the generous collaboration of Sundaram Tagore Gallery in New York City.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/sensory-friendly-morning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Sensory Friendly Morning</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk</strong></p><p>Sunday Jan 26, 8:00 am - 9:30 am</p><p>From 8:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. all Aquarium galleries and exhibits will be open with lights dimmed and music and other sounds turned down or off. For those wanting to include a short film in the 4D theater, guests can enjoy a film wearing 4D glasses, but with sounds lower and theater lights brighter, and without any of the sensory effects. Plus, enjoy a special seal feeding at 9 a.m. in Pinniped Cove with our Animal Husbandry Team.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/guided-gallery-tour-greenwich-during-the-revolutionary-war-a-frontier-town-on-the-front-line" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Guided Gallery Tour Greenwich During the Revolutionary War: A Frontier Town on the Front Line</strong></a></p><p><strong>Greenwich Historical Society</strong></p><p>Sunday Jan 26, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>Gain deeper insights and information on the exhibition with Greenwich Historical society staff-led guided tours every other Sunday. Bring the kids and enjoy the “Let’s Learn” interactive exhibition feature. Take the opportunity to tour the National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House before or after the gallery tour to learn more about how the Bush family navigated the formation a new nation.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/puzzle-competition-sponsored-by-the-toy-room" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Puzzle Competition Sponsored by the Toy Room</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bethel Public Library</strong></p><p>Sunday Jan 26, 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm, hosts a<strong> </strong>. Join us as we host a Ravensburger Puzzle contest sponsored by our neighbor and friend The Toy Room! Race opposing teams to complete a 300 piece puzzle. Teams can consist of up to five members aged 6 and up, and must have one adult (age 21 and over) or be accompanied by a parent/guardian for the duration of the competition.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/bethel-arts-in-view---wier-farm-artist-collective-a67d8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Bethel Arts in View - Weir Farm Artist Collective</strong></a></p><p><strong>La Zingara Restaurant</strong></p><p>Inspired by the lush landscape of Weir Farm, the artists bring us visions of Connecticut terrain in all seasons and times of day. Rolling hills, historic buildings, flowers in bloom and magnificent trees serve as inspiration for the varied expressions of this group of talented artists.</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>
<p><strong style="color: rgb(181, 25, 7);">Financial Fitness: The Power of Budgeting </strong><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Thursday, January 23 at 6:30-7:30 PM pn person at Bethel Library and on Zoom.</strong></p><p>This interactive seminar will explore the importance of creating and maintaining a budget; examine the difference between wants and needs; and set goals for personal spending, savings and debt repayment.</p><p><em>Presenter Maria Xavier has been a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones since 2018. She left her career in telecom sales to pursue her passion for personal finance and investing. She enjoys teaching at libraries to help spread knowledge on how to plan using money as a tool.</em></p><p><em>Register </em><a href="https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/financial-fitness-the-power-of-budgeting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/financial-fitness-the-power-of-budgeting/</em></a></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(181, 25, 7);">Benefits of Music Therapy on Brain Health </strong><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Friday, January 24 from 2:00-3:00 PM</strong></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In person and on Zoom</em></p><p>Please join Sherrye Platt, MS, MT-BC, RVNAhealth Music Therapist, to learn how the brain responds to music stimulation; the benefits of music on the aging process; and group music-making activities. No previous musical experience is necessary.</p><p><em>While an undergraduate at Montclair State University, presenter Sherrye Platt was introduced to music as an evidence-based therapeutic tool. Platt quickly re-focused her studies to leverage the poser of music to improve people's lives. Platt earned her master's degree at world-renowned Berklee College of Music.</em></p><p><em>Register </em><a href="https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/benefits-of-music-therapy-on-brain-health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/benefits-of-music-therapy-on-brain-health/</em></a></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(181, 25, 7);">Puzzle Competition Sponsored by the Toy Room </strong><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Sunday, January 26 from 1:30-4:30 PM</strong></p><p>Join us as we host a Ravensburger Puzzle contest sponsored by our neighbor and friend The Toy Room! Race opposing teams to complete a 300 piece puzzle. </p><p><strong>Teams can consist of up to five members aged 6 and up</strong>, and must have one adult (age 21 and over) or be accompanied by a parent/guardian for the duration of the competition.<strong> Limited to 8 teams.</strong></p><p><strong>When registering, please reserve only 1 spot for a team. </strong>All the supplies and puzzles are provided by Ravensburger.</p><p>Prizes:</p><ul><li>1st Place: $50 Ravensburger Gift Certificate</li><li>2nd Place: $25 Ravensburger Gift Certificate</li><li>3rd Place: $15 Ravensburger Gift Certificate</li></ul><p><strong>Prizes to be redeemed at the Toy Room.</strong></p><p><strong>Register </strong><a href="https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/puzzle-competition-sponsored-by-the-toy-room" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/puzzle-competition-sponsored-by-the-toy-room/</a></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(181, 25, 7);">Bearing Witness: One Family's Holocaust Story </strong><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Thursday, January 30 from 6:30-7:30 PM</strong></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In person and on Zoom</strong></p><p>As a descendant of two Holocaust survivors, Redding's Renee Bronner Pessin will mark this International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) by telling the story of her parents, Helen and Sam Bronner, who met while imprisoned in a concentration camp during the atrocities of the Holocaust. Helen was the only survivor of more than 50 members of her immediate and extended family in Poland, while Sam and one brother were the only survivors of his immediate family.</p><p>Renee shares the story of her parents through excerpts of her mother's video testimony to the Shoah Foundation and through family pictures that survived the horrors of the Holocaust. Renee feels it is more urgent than ever to share their story, especially to community listeners, to ensure that history does not repeat itself.</p><p><em>Renee Bonner Pessin moved to Redding over 7 years ago. Over the years, Renee has worked as a registered nurse, editorial associate for scientific journals, and for over 20 years, as a freelance biomedical grant and manuscript editor.</em></p><p><em>Register </em><a href="https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/bearing-witness-one-familys-holocaust-story" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/bearing-witness-one-familys-holocaust-story/</em></a></p><p><a href="https://o9vh5xbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AbC6ZYDUPjyWlMakVS0N79Pw9KMDTLOVkG5ovaLWxCoE9TB7IBQOKGhYyqsALxsr_jM0Vnvf9AXd79pAoOsQ3bmPakcfjInC576T_AX1QOww8CIUsSJ5xX6iHv6IK5OTqqcTucJ5QbWFQguFBnPlFuaqiSvXfx-ZHNnYx4aDPRWrH9Tkky0xJUHgy2SN_pHUi8vMdornWvbKfP8-muYLoeYx9xWvnW_r6lpo0DNXHd6Ry8RkBr6wS03ChscA68iK&c=zGE02ysz5E7NViWjxB6A-Y76Ke_PcJF_s5aJK-eOGiAfhN2aqatTnw==&ch=jmZPmZlQ2cw7-CGAQ5YJafJnIIJ9pjNbIdatUoQvx0OlrvVvOAkoLg==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><strong>Click Here to Register Your Team</strong></a></p>
<p><span style="color: rgb(8, 8, 9);">Join us at the opening reception and to view the works of Weir Farm artists (see below) on Sunday, January 26 from </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(8, 8, 9);">5 to 7pm at The Gallery at La Zingara. The exhibit is on view through March 16, 2025.</span></p><p>ARTISTS:</p><p>Randy Carboni </p><p>Leslie Carone</p><p>Tom Carruthers </p><p>Roberta Delano </p><p>Diane Dooley </p><p>Bobbi Eike Mullen </p><p>Jama Hansonbrook </p><p>Maria Reed </p><p>Clarice Shirvell </p><p>Lesley Schwartzchild</p><p>Eileen Tavolacci </p><p>Jane Wolf </p><p><em style="color: rgb(33, 37, 41);">The Park is offering a new opportunity for local artists to connect and share during monthly gatherings, led by artists, for artists. The Weir Farm Artist Collective is a collaboration of independent artists following the tradition of creativity within the Weir Farm landscape. Its purpose is to inform, support, encourage and engage accomplished artists of all mediums to share ideas, opportunities and technical solutions. </em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(33, 37, 41);">Learn more about the </span><a href="https://www.nps.gov/wefa/planyourvisit/weir-farm-artist-collective.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--bs-link-color);">Weir Farm Artist Collective</a><span style="color: rgb(33, 37, 41);">! </span></p>