State Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan

The Sycamore isn’t just a restaurant it’s part of Bethel’s story.

For 78 years, families have gathered here for burgers, shakes, cruise nights, first dates, celebrations, and memories that span generations. Thank you to the Austins and everyone who kept this Bethel institution alive for so long.

Endings are hard, but what a legacy.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this weekend’s Fresh Start Fair possible.

I’m especially grateful to Michael’s Tap Room for generously hosting, and to the Bethel Chamber of Commerce CT and Bethel, CT Economic Development for their partnership. I also want to thank the organizations that showed up and took the time to truly engage with residents, your presence mattered.

In just a few hours, we connected a new mom, recent college graduates, a woman laid off the day before, and several individuals seeking reentry opportunities. Different stories, same need: guidance, connection, and a place to start.

This event came together quickly, but it reinforced something important for me, people are looking to be seen, heard, and supported. When we create space for that, even in small ways, it can make a real difference. That’s why this was just the beginning, and why we’ll be planning more Fresh Start Fairs ahead.

If you or someone you know couldn’t make it, please reach out. We’re always here to help connect people to next steps.

We remember where we were, who we hugged a little tighter, and how our sense of safety shifted that day.

13 years later, we honor the children and educators we lost at Sandy Hook, and the love that continues to surround their memory.

I’ve been honored to work with families and survivors who turned grief into purpose and pain into advocacy. Their strength and love endure.

Appreciate Inside Investigator covering the housing bill and including my perspective. Connecticut needs more housing but we also need honesty about what’s happening on the ground. Bethel has seen exactly how developers exploit loopholes, and nothing in this bill stops that. Vessel isn’t theoretical it’s our lived experience.

I’m also deeply concerned that this bill moves even more decision-making away from towns like Bethel and into the hands of state and regional bodies.

This isn’t political for me. It’s about protecting my community and demanding a process that’s fair, transparent, and grounded in what our towns can actually sustain. I won’t stop pushing for that.

Read article: https://insideinvestigator.org/stakeholders-reflect-on-cts-revised-special-session-housing-bill/