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May 14, 2024

45th Annual St. Mary School Carnival at Bethel Municipal Center May 15-17

<h2>St. Mary School Carnival at Bethel Municipal Center</h2>It's almost CARNIVAL time! We look forward to seeing everyone Wednesday, May 15 through Sunday, May 19!<ul><li>Wednesday - Friday: 6pm-10pm</li><li>Saturday: 4pm-10pm</li><li>Sunday: 4pm-7pm</li></ul>Ride all the rides with a wristband for $30! (Individual ride tickets available as well)Visit St. Mary School on Facebook for additional information=> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StMaryBethel?fref=ts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/StMaryBethel</a>

May 14, 2024

Bethel’s Byrd’s Books Wecomes International Bestseller Liv Constantine

Bethel’s Byrd’s Books Wecomes International Bestseller Liv Constantine To the Bethel Public LibraryThe proverb, “two is better than one” dates back to 1390 and even appears as the subject of a Taylor Swift hit, but it really hits home when you meet the international bestselling author, Liv Constantine. Of course, Liv is the pen name for sisters Lynne and Valerie, authors of the hugely successful psychological thriller — and debut novel —The Last Mrs. Parrish.On Wednesday, June 26th at 7:00pm, Bethel’s Byrd’s Books is thrilled is host the duo at the Bethel Public Library, 189 Greenwood Avenue, to discuss their newest book, The Next Mrs. Parrish. The authors will be in conversation with author Gabi Coatsworth. The Bethel Library requires registration. You may register and purchase your of The Next Mrs. Parrish at the same time by visiting <a href="ByrdsBooks.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ByrdsBooks.com</a> (Books from other sources are not permitted at this signing).Publisher Random House will add to the evening's fun by providing a complimentary raffle prize for one lucky winner during the event. The basket will include a custom mug, a Brooklinen robe, a themed recipe card and more. Raffle tickets will be handed out to attendees upon entering the event.The thrilling sequel to the million-copy-bestselling Reese’s Book Club pick, The Last Mrs. Parrish, Liv Constantine’s new book finds Daphne and Amber Parrish thrust back into each other's lives upon the resurgence of a long-forgotten threat, forcing a vicious game of cat and mouse where everything is on the line. Liv Constantine books have been translated into 29 languages, are available in 34 countries, and are in development for both television and film. Their books have been praised by The Washington Post, USA Today, The Sunday Times, People Magazine, and Good Morning America, among others. Byrd’s Books is located at 178 Greenwood Avenue across from the Bethel Public Library. Author discussions and Book Group gatherings are regularly added to Byrd’s Books’ calendar of events at <a href="ByrdsBooks.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ByrdsBooks.com</a>  Hours are Tuesdays to Saturdays10:00am to 6:00pm, Sundays 12:00 noon to 4;00pm, Closed Mondays. For directions to the store or more information, call Byrd’s Books at 203-730-2973. To review the shop’s expanded catalog of new titles, go to <a href="ByrdsBooks.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ByrdsBooks.com</a>

May 14, 2024

Bethel Garden Club Plant Sale on Saturday!

Bethel Garden Club Plant Sale on Saturday, May 18 beginning at 9:00 am at Bethel-United Methodist Church, 141 Greenwood Ave.This popular annual Bethel event is for everyone looking for tried-and-true perennials at amazing low prices.Purchase plants selected from members' gardens, organically grown tomato plants, garden-related items, and expert&nbsp;advice from master gardeners. Enter the raffle featuring great prizes, too! Come when it opens at 9:00 am for the best selection. The sale concludes at 1:00 pm.Learn more <a href="https://events.bethel-ct.gov/events/bethel-garden-club-plant-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://events.bethel-ct.gov/events/bethel-garden-club-plant-sale</a>

May 14, 2024

Open Mic Night at Molten Java!

Come play music, recite poetry, tell a story, or show off another talent at Open Mic Night this Thursday (and EVERY Thursday) at Molten Java from 7 to 9pm.Keep in mind this is an all ages event in a public venue. We trust you to make good choices about appropriate material. This is an LGBTQIA+ inclusive and welcoming event series. No cover fee but minimum one drink purchased required (show Molten some love, y’all!)Performance slots are assigned on a first come, first served basis IN PERSON. No times will be held or assigned before the event starts. Get there early to grab your spot!Molton Java, 213 Greenwood Avenue

May 13, 2024

Danbury Concert Association concludes ‘23-‘24 season with the Neave Trio May 19

Where words fail, music speaks.” – Hans Christian AndersenNeave is Gaelic for ‘bright’ and ‘radiant.’ The word “certainly applies to the [Neave] trio’s music making,” says WQXR radio. On Sunday, May 19 at 3:00 p.m., the Danbury Concert Association will conclude its ‘23-‘24 season with the Neave Trio, young masters of both the classical and the modern. The concert will be presented in the 350-seat Veronica Hagman Concert Hall located in the Visual and Performing Arts Center (VPAC) on the west side campus of Western Connecticut State University, 43 Lake Avenue Extension, Danbury.The Neave Trio has earned critical praise — and a Grammy nomination — for their beautiful tone, precise synchronization, and remarkable balance. The program includes Piano Trio in A minor by Ravel, Soir et Matin for piano trio, Op. 76 by Mel Bonis, and Brahms’ Piano Trio No. 1 in B major, Op. 8.Since forming in 2010, the Neave Trio — violinist Anna Williams, cellist Michael Veselov, and pianist Eri Nakamura — has performed on many esteemed concert stages and at festivals worldwide, including Lincoln Center’s Mostly Mozart Festival, Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall, Smithsonian Art Museum, 92nd Street Y, Rockport Chamber Music Festival, and Rimsky-Korsikov Museum’s Chamber Music Series in St. Petersburg, Russia. During the ‘23-‘24 season, the Neave Trio is the inaugural Ensemble-in-Residence at Virginia Commonwealth University. For a complete overview of the trio’s work, visit <a href="neavetrio.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">neavetrio.com</a>.  A meet-the-artist reception will follow the performance.Single tickets for the May 19th concert are $25 per adult and may be purchased on Eventbrite, <a href="wcsuvpac.eventbrite.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">wcsuvpac.eventbrite.com</a>. Admission is free for ages 18 and under, courtesy of the Danbury Cultural Commission; simply check in at the box office prior to the performance. For questions, contact the box office at 203-837-8732, or to learn more about the DCA, go to <a href="danburyconcert.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">danburyconcert.org</a>.

May 11, 2024

ACT of Connecticut’s TRIUMPHANT season finale - KINKY BOOTS

It’s bold and beautiful, humbling and heartfelt. KINKY BOOTS reminds us that we can only find true joy when we live life authentically.KINKY BOOTS is ALL THAT. Pull on those boots and RUN to get your KINKY BOOTS tickets <a href="https://www.actofct.org/kinky-boots" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>!Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine has assembled the largest cast to date, accompanied by eleven orchestra musicians who elevate the actors to new heights, surpassing even their stiletto heels! "Theater serves as a dynamic place where individuals can unveil their deepest and authentic selves, shaping both self-expression and identity." Levine proclaims, “This show is a great example of that!"We need that in our lives now more than ever. Last night, ACT of CT sponsors and supporters were treated to a Sneak Peek of the upcoming production of KINKY BOOTS, winner of the Tony, the Grammy and London’s Olivier Awards, on stage from May 23 through June 16. The show sold out in record time so ACT of CT recently added a performance - Wednesday, June 12th at 7 pm. With the original music by Cyndi Lauper and book by Ridgefield resident and Broadway star Harvey Fierstein, KINKY BOOTS' message of self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of staying true to oneself is one that all can relate to. The heart of the musical beats with Charlie Price, portrayed by Andrew Cekala, who finds himself at the helm of his father's failing shoe factory. In a twist of fate, Charlie crosses paths with Lola, brought to life by the uber-talented Topher J. Babb, a charismatic drag queen whose vibrant spirit and unwavering confidence infuse new life into both the factory and Charlie. The duo, in seemingly stark contrast, demonstrate that no matter your stride, the boots were made for walking and sometimes they feel more comfortable six inches off the ground.KINKY BOOTS “Angels” lift Charlie and Lola even higher off the ground. Levine’s casting of the musical is magnificent. “This a truly a spectacular cast. We are so lucky to be able to hire such skilled and talented performers and I am beyond excited for our audiences to meet this cast!"KINKY BOOTS Director and Choreographer <a href="https://www.nathanpeckonline.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Nathan Peck</a> finds the production’s stride with perfection and finesses. The two musical numbers showcased at the Sneak Peek were bold, dramatic, and electrifying. Peck is intimately familiar with the ACT of CT stage, having previously served as Daniel Levine’s choreographer for the award-winning production of THE SECRET GARDEN.Attendees watched as Peck, who has directed and choreographed KINKY BOOTS at venues across the country, encouraged the talented cast to push the theatrical boundaries. “It’s [KINKY BOOTS] a huge part of my life… more than theatrical work I’ve done and I'm just so grateful that I have the opportunity to do it again. And, and do it for Dan… and to do it for all of you,” Peck said. “I love that I worked on THE SECRET GARDEN last year, and I love ACT!”The musical number “Not My Father’s Son” pulled at the heartstrings of Sneak Peek audience. Lola sings:Maybe I went to extremes of leather and laceBut the world seems brighter six inches off the groundAnd the air seemed lighterI was profound, and I felt so proudJust to live out loudLive your life triumphantly and secure your tickets NOW => <a href="https://www.actofct.org/kinky-boots" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.actofct.org/kinky-boots</a>**Please note: this image was snapped during the Sneak Peek rehearsal of KINKY BOOTS.

May 10, 2024

Dan Carter Bethel Community Update, Friday, May 10

Emergency Services & Public Protection Update: Severe Geomagnetic Storm WarningThe Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a SEVERE GEOMAGNETIC STORM WARNING. A large sunspot cluster (16 times the diameter of earth) is likely to cause interference with HF communications, GPS, and power grids later today and through the weekend. Operators of critical infrastructure across the state have been notified. Visit <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--link);">SWPC</a> for more information.Town Announcements<ul><li>The town has entered a contract to purchase a new ladder truck to be delivered this fall and based in Stony Hill. While we have communicated that the truck will be based at the Stony Hill Volunteer Fire Company, the card sent out via snail mail prior to the referendum didn’t say where the truck would be based. Sorry for the confusion.</li><li>The legislature wrapped up the 2024 session this week. While some of the controversial bills that would have had a negative impact on Bethel failed to pass, our major concern is Bethel was underfunded for education. Education Cost Sharing (ECS) for the town was underfunded by $200k and the Excess Cost grant for special education was also underfunded by $200k. We will be working together limit the impact on your kids.</li><li>Bethel has a Housing Authority is independent from the town and regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Connecticut State Department of Housing (DOH). The Bethel Housing Authority manages two properties in Bethel and rental assistance funding for these subsidized apartments is provided by HUD and the USDA/RD. Call (203) 797-9909 or email office@bethelhousingauthority.org for more info on availability.</li></ul>Community Events<ul><li>Check out upcoming public hearings at <a href="https://bethel-ct.gov/2024-public-hearing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--link);">Bethel CT</a>.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Public Hearing: Planning & Zoning Commission re: 140 Greenwood Ave and 18 Stony Hill Rd on Tuesday, May 14th at 7:00 pm at Town Hall in Conference Room D</li><li>Tomorrow, May 11th is National Letter Carrier Stamp Out Hunger Day. Place a bag of nonperishable food next to your mailbox and our letter carriers will deliver your donation to Brotherhood in Action and The Bethel Community Food Pantry. Please check the expiration dates to not include expired items!</li><li>Don’t forget Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day for Bethel residents is tomorrow, May 11th at the Newtown Public Works Facility. Check out what you can and can’t dispose of at <a href="https://hrra.org/household-hazardous-waste" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--link);">HRRA</a>.</li><li>The Saint Mary School Carnaval is back! Come down to the Town Hall green for food, rides and more starting Wednesday, May 15th and ending Sunday, May 19th. Wednesday through Friday 6 pm to 10 pm, Saturday 4 pm to 10 pm, and Sunday 4 pm to 7 pm.</li><li>Join Sustainable Bethel for the Bethel Walk Audit on Saturday, May 18th at the intersection of Stony Hill Rd and Old Hawleyville Rd. at 1 pm. You will help document and capture the experiences of pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation riders to find and recommend to the town more sustainable transit-oriented development options. The objective is to improve safety, ease of access to local businesses, and quality of life for Bethel residents, organizations, and businesses in the Stony Hill area. Contact gj.hernandezkeene@gmail.com or sustainablebethel@bethel-ct.gov with questions.</li><li>The Bethel Memorial Day parade steps off on Sunday, May 19th at 2 pm. The Bethel Patriotic Association have been working to make this year’s parade fantastic. The parade will begin in front of Whitlock’s Restaurant and travel east on Greenwood, turning left (north) at PT Barnum Sq., left (west) on School Street, and end in front of the town hall. There will be a ceremony at town hall.</li></ul>Acknowledgments & Events<ul><li>A big shoutout to Joy Kisling, Bethel’s own softball junkie! She helped found the Bethel Softball Association in 1979 for Bethel girls. After playing, coaching, holding every position in the BSA, and induction into USA Softball of CT Hall of Fame, Joy hosted an amazing Opening Day at Kisling Field! Congrats and thank you, Joy!</li><li>A shoutout to Bethel Teachers for Teachers Week! Fact: The majority our teachers have master’s degrees and many sixth-year diplomas! Thank you for your dedication, long hours, and compassion for our community!</li><li>A big shoutout to our Bethel Police Officers of the year, Sargent Jared Robinson (2022) and Corporal Keith Freeman (2023), and all the officers recognized with service awards! The stories about what you do every day to protect our town are amazing!</li><li>Congrats to Bethel boys outdoor track for advancing to an 11-0 season! Great job!</li><li>Good luck to the Bethel Baseball on your senior night game against Stratford tonight!</li><li>To all you Moms out there, Happy Mother’s Day!</li></ul>Have a great weekend!