<h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">"Stay home if you can and watch football. If you need to drive, take it slow, and if you approach a plow, please keep a safe distance and allow them do their jobs.”</span></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today is advising Connecticut residents to prepare for the first significant statewide snowfall the state has experienced so far this winter season. As of this afternoon, meteorologists say that current models indicate most of the state will receive about four to ten inches of snow beginning late in the afternoon on Sunday, January 19, 2025, and continuing into Monday morning.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared to stay off the roads during the height of the storm.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s fleet of more than 600 snowplows and specialized snow removal equipment is ready to deploy across the state. Crews are on standby all weekend and will remain active until the roads are clear of snow and ice.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“We’ve only had relatively light snow so far this winter, but this is the first storm where most of the state can expect to see an accumulation of more than several inches,” Governor Lamont said. “This storm is being forecast well in advance, which is why now is the time for motorists to plan ahead and get to where they need to be before the snowfall begins on Sunday afternoon. Stay home if you can and watch football. If you need to drive, take it slow, and if you approach a plow, please keep a safe distance and allow them do their jobs.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“If you must travel during this storm, please slow down, use caution, and leave extra space between your vehicle and others,” Laoise King, deputy commissioner of CTDOT, said. “Most importantly, give plow drivers the room they need to work safely and efficiently. Crowding the plow makes their job harder and delays the process of clearing roads. For your safety and ours, don’t crowd the plow.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Winter weather presents significant safety challenges for drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022 there were 498 fatal traffic crashes and an estimated 32,213 injury crashes that occurred when there was snow and/or sleet conditions at the time of the crash. CTDOT emphasizes that preparation is essential for safe winter driving.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tips for staying clear of snowplows</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Snowplow operators are critical in keeping roads safe during winter storms. Drivers should:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Maintain distance: Stay well behind snowplows and avoid their blind spots, particularly in the back corners.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Avoid passing plows: Passing snowplows is dangerous, as it reduces visibility and risks collisions with thrown snow or the plow.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Give operators space: Allow plenty of room for snowplow operators to do their work effectively and safely.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tips for winter driving safety</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">To ensure safety during icy and snowy conditions, CTDOT urges the public to:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Slow down: Adjust your speed to match road conditions and allow extra stopping time.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Keep a safe distance: Increase the space between your vehicle and others to allow for sufficient reaction time.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Equip winter tires: Use winter tires to improve traction on slippery roads.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stay updated: Check weather reports and road conditions before traveling. Consider delaying trips if conditions are hazardous. Visit </span><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-wlikykl-tlluktttuu-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">CTroads.org</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> for real-time traffic and road conditions.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Prepare an emergency kit: Carry essentials such as blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first aid kit in your vehicle.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Never drive impaired: Driving impaired is illegal and endangers everyone on the road.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">For additional information on snowplow awareness and winter driving tips, visit </span><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-wlikykl-tlluktttuu-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">To subscribe to alerts from Connecticut’s emergency notification system, visit </span><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-wlikykl-tlluktttuu-b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">ct.gov/ctalert</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><strong>Town of Bethel Jobs</strong></p><p>Interested in working for your town? We are hiring! Bethel has a few career opportunities posted and a few more due to be posted soon.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/Employment" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/Employment</a>. The Town of Bethel is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</p><p><strong>TOD Presentation</strong></p><p>Planning and Zoning is holding a special meeting on Thursday, January 23rd at Town Hall in Meeting Room D at 7:30 pm. On the agenda is a discussion about the Transit Oriented Development and a review of the Mobility and Parking Study completed last year. This is not a public hearing. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-zoning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethel-ct.gov/2025-zoning</a>&nbsp;or watch the meeting from home at&nbsp;<a href="https://meet.google.com/xud-tkkh-rac" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://meet.google.com/xud-tkkh-rac</a>.</p><p><strong>Volunteer Fire and EMS</strong></p><p>If you are new to Bethel, you may not know our both of our Fire Departments are volunteer! We have some paid staff on our ambulances during the day, but we rely on volunteers for our medical and fire response. Are you interested in a really unique volunteer opportunity? Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bvfdinc.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bvfdinc.com/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stonyhillfiredepartment.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.stonyhillfiredepartment.com/</a>&nbsp;to learn more about our volunteer departments!</p><p><strong>Friends of Parks and Rec</strong></p><p>The Friends of Bethel Parks and Recreation have some volunteer opportunities available! If you like researching online, you could help locate 501(c)3 grant opportunities for Parks and Rec.&nbsp;They are also developing a web survey look at park needs in the future. FBPR is working in a summer fundraiser event and can used some organized planners. Please email&nbsp;<span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">friendsofbethelpandr@gmail.com</span>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.friendsofbethelpandr.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.friendsofbethelpandr.org/</a>&nbsp;for more information on FBPR!</p><p><strong>Arctic Blast</strong></p><p>The Governor announced activation of Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol starting this Sunday night, January 19th and remaining in effect until Friday, January 24th. We are expecting the coldest weather that the state has seen so far this winter. Anyone in need of shelter or warming center is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services.</p><p>We are expecting snow on Sunday night. Please remember to remove vehicles, garbage cans, basketball hoops, or anything else from your street that could interfere with snow removal. The Town is not responsible for any damage occurring to these items if not addressed prior to snow removal.</p><p><strong>Hometown Heroes</strong></p><p>The Bethel Patriotic Association still has banners available for the Hometown Heroes Banner Program for 2025 that honors local members of the Armed Forces. The 18” x 36” digitally printed double-sided vinyl banners will be placed on town owned lampposts on School Street in front of the Bethel Town Hall. Each banner will honor a specific Bethel service member. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bethelhometownheroes.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.bethelhometownheroes.org</a>&nbsp;for info and the application or stop by the First Selectman’s Office in Town Hall or the American Legion Post 100.</p><p><strong>Bethel Softball</strong></p><p>Bethel Softball Association's Spring registration is open!&nbsp;BSA is a youth softball league focusing on teaching the game of softball for ages PreK-4 through 13.&nbsp;They offer both recreational as well as travel divisions.&nbsp;Register by Friday, January 24th for the early bird discount; registration ends March 4th.&nbsp;Sign-up at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bethelctsoftball.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bethelctsoftball.com/</a>.</p><p><strong>Music Therapy</strong></p><p>Explore the Benefits of Music Therapy at the Bethel Public Library on Friday, January 24th from 2 pm to 3 pm. Learn how the brain responds to music and how music helps during aging! Find information on this FREE presentation sponsored by RVNAhealth at&nbsp;<a href="https://rvnahealth.org/calendar/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://rvnahealth.org/calendar/</a>. Call the Bethel Public Library at 203-794-8756 or email&nbsp;<span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">tborysiewicz@bethellibrary.org</span>&nbsp;to register.</p><p><strong>Teen Yoga at BPL</strong></p><p>Relax and stretch on Saturday. January 25th with Yoga Space's Yoga program for teens at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bethellibrary.org/events/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bethel Public Library</a>! Register at&nbsp;<a href="https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/teen-yoga/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethellibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/teen-yoga/</a></p><p><strong>Legislative Breakfast</strong></p><p>The Chamber of Commerce is hosting their annual Legislative Breakfast on Tuesday, January 28th at 8 am at La Zingara Restaurant. We are expecting a good showing from our State Senators and State Representatives. For tickets visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bethelchamberofcommerce.com/event/2025-legislative-breakfast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://bethelchamberofcommerce.com/event/2025-legislative-breakfast</a>.</p><p><strong>BEF Mardi Gras Carnival</strong></p><p>The Bethel Education Foundation is hosting their “Mardi Gras Carnival” Annual Benefit on Saturday, March 1st at 6 pm. This event their largest fundraiser and includes dinner, dancing, and both live and silent auctions. The Dr. Janice Jordan Excellence in Education Awards are presented to educators whose creativity within the classroom, school or district has had a significant impact on student performance and achievement. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.betheledfoundation.org/annual-benefit.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.betheledfoundation.org/annual-benefit.html</a>&nbsp;for information and tickets.</p><p><strong>Shoutouts</strong></p><ul><li>A shoutout to the Bethel American Legion for their work cleaning uniforms and displays in Veterans Hall!&nbsp;Come by and take a look next time you are in Town Hall</li><li>A shoutout to Ms. Galbraith and her P7 and P8 Civics Classes! Your questions about education budget and how you can make a difference at the State Capitol were fantastic!</li><li>A huge shoutout to the Cadets and Staff of the Bethel High School Navy Junior ROTC on the completion of your annual inspection! You always impress!</li><li>Lady Wildcats are still going strong at 10-2! GOOD LUCK at your home basketball games on Tuesday and Thursday next week! Game time 6pm.</li></ul><p>Good luck to the Boys Basketball team against Joel Barlow tomorrow at home! Game time 3pm.</p><p>Town Hall is closed Monday, January 20th in Observance of Martin Luther King Day.</p><p><br></p>

<p>Bethel Arts desires your help raising funds&nbsp;for the Arts in our town of Bethel Connecticut.&nbsp;If you love Jazz then we are sure that you will want to attend this&nbsp;spectacular Jazz concert&nbsp;featuring some of New York’s finest musicians on February 8 at 7pm.</p><p>The renowned&nbsp;<a href="https://bethelartsct.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=dfc8d62dd1253be9cc77b47d5&amp;id=1858f20d65&amp;e=7b6d9bb104" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 124, 137);">Aaron Goldberg Trio</a>, including&nbsp;the legendary John Patitucci on bass and the master drummer&nbsp;Al Foster, will take the stage on February 8, 2025, at the Veronica Hagman Concert Hall located on the WCSU Westside&nbsp;campus.</p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kn8dnhn0ceI?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><br></p><p><a href="https://bethelartsct.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=dfc8d62dd1253be9cc77b47d5&amp;id=3c012e6658&amp;e=7b6d9bb104" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 124, 137);">Purchase tickets here.</a></p><p>Seating is limited so it is advised to purchase tickets soon.</p><p><a href="https://bethelartsct.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=dfc8d62dd1253be9cc77b47d5&amp;id=fb08615da0&amp;e=7b6d9bb104" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 124, 137);">Watch&nbsp;a sample of Aaron Goldberg leading a trio on YouTube.</a></p><p><a href="https://bethelartsct.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=dfc8d62dd1253be9cc77b47d5&amp;id=2803789294&amp;e=7b6d9bb104" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 124, 137);">Read the Bethel Grapevine story about the musicians</a></p><p>This event is not only a celebration of world-class music but also a vital fundraiser for Bethel Arts. Proceeds will support our 2025 outdoor sculpture exhibit and other arts programs that enrich the Bethel community.</p><p><a href="https://bethelartsct.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=dfc8d62dd1253be9cc77b47d5&amp;id=5a973f4506&amp;e=7b6d9bb104" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 124, 137);">Also, please consider becoming a sponsor for this exciting event.</a></p><p><br></p>

<p class="ql-align-justify">January 16, 2025: Fairfield County Bank is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Jennifer Cutrali to Executive Vice President of Credit Administration, following the retirement of Miguel Calderon, former Credit Administration Executive Vice President.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Ms. Cutrali joined Fairfield County Bank in 2020 as Vice President, Credit Administration Manager. In this role, she was responsible for assisting with commercial loan underwriting, loan closings and enacting various operational initiatives to streamline critical functions of the Credit Administration department. As Executive Vice President, she will be responsible for the management and coordination of day-to-day activities of the Credit Administration team as well as leading closing, reporting, appraisal management, audits, and annual reviews of the department.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Jennifer has worked ardently over the last four years to continuously improve her department’s efficacy and efficiency,” said Fairfield County Bank CEO David Schneider. “We are very excited to welcome her to the Executive Team and look forward to the benefit her local knowledge and vast expertise will bring to our clients.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Ms. Cutrali received her MBA in Finance as well as a Bachelor of Science from Southern Connecticut State University. She has completed the Women’s Leadership Program at the Yale School of Management and the Risk Management Association |Texas A&amp;M Executive Risk Management Program. She also received the 2023 New Leaders in Banking award from the Connecticut Bankers Association.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Jennifer is deeply involved in her community. She volunteers her time to the Housatonic Community College Foundation as Board Member and Treasurer, where she leads both the Finance and Investment committees. She is Chairperson of the Fair Rent Commission for the City of Shelton. In addition, Ms. Cutrali is a member of the Environmental Bankers Association and the Risk Management Association where she serves on the Women in Risk and Assurance Committee.</p>

<p>Bucknell University has released the Dean's List for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2024-25 academic year. </p><p>Congratulations to Bethel residents Sadie Drahzal and Grace Garvey, who were named to the Dean's List.</p><p>A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale to receive Dean's List recognition.</p><p><br></p>

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