Cos Cob Resident Jim Finn Throws His Hat Into the First Selectman Ring
Jim Finn, a resident of Cos Cob, has announced his candidacy as a Democratic candidate for the position of Greenwich First Selectman in the municipal election scheduled for November 7, 2023. He retired after a career in politics, journalism, and corporate communications and has lived in Greenwich with his wife for 27 years. Finn emphasized the need to restore civility in the town and expressed his concerns about school funding, culture wars, and the town’s capital budget.
POLICE & FIRE
GPD Car Show a Success
The second Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund Benefit Car Show was a success, attracting a large crowd and showcasing over 70 classic cars. The event supported the educational pursuits of children of GPD officers. Winners received trophies in various categories, and the event was attended by First Selectman Fred Camillo and Selectwoman Lauren Rabin. The fund is overseen by a Board of Directors comprised of individuals representing the Chief of Police, the Greenwich High School Principal, a Town Attorney, and a dedicated volunteer from the local business community. The Scholarship Fund, established in 1962, awards scholarships to approximately 20 applicants each year, and donations can be made through their website.
FROM TOWN HALL
Parking Concerns on Grigg Street
Residents voiced concerns about parking issues on Grigg Street during a Board of Selectmen meeting. Double parking and sidewalk parking are causing safety hazards and difficulties for pedestrians and emergency vehicles. Suggestions, including bollards or stanchions, were made, and the Deputy Police Chief acknowledged the problem. The town is working to improve parking on Greenwich Avenue.
Town Officials Propose Fair Rent Commission
Town officials have proposed a Fair Rent Commission to protect residents from unfair rent increases. The commission would mediate disputes, consider tenant complaints, and have the power to reduce or delay excessive rent hikes. Approval from the Board of Selectmen and the Representative Town Meeting is required for the ordinance to be enacted.
Town to Install Bike Lane Markers
Greenwich will install shared lane bicycle roadway markers, or “sharrows” in two locations to improve safety for pedestrians, motorists, and bicyclists. The markers will be placed between Byram Park and Bruce Park, as well as near Riverside School and Eastern Middle School. Sharrows raise awareness and guide bicyclists to maintain a safe distance from parked cars. Installation is planned for late spring or early summer, with the potential for more in the future based on effectiveness and feedback.
AROUND TOWN
Bruce Park Playground Temporary Closure
The Bruce Park Playground and a section of the upper parking lot will be temporarily closed for resurfacing and staging purposes. The closure will remain in effect until Wednesday, June 7th.
Pet Pantry Warehouse Donates $30,000 for New Dog Park
Pet Pantry Warehouse will donate $30,000 to build a new dog park in town. The donation aims to enhance the space and ensure dog safety. The Board of Selectmen will vote on accepting the donation after gathering public feedback. First Selectman Fred Camillo supports the project and plans to establish two new dog parks in Greenwich. Final approval is expected in September. For more information, visit the town’s website or contact the Office of the First Selectman.
Bob Sacco has been working tirelessly for over a year to address lighting issues in two underpasses in the Byram neighborhood. Sacco raised concerns with state and local officials, expressing frustration with the lack of progress despite infrastructure funding. State Representative Steven Meskers has been engaged in discussions to resolve the lighting problem, but ownership and responsibility for the underpasses are unclear. Meskers confirms that a resolution is expected soon, but the state Department of Transportation has not provided an immediate response.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Raises $550,000
The Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter’s gala event, “Alzheimer’s Association Goes Hollywood,” raised $550,000 to support their initiatives. Co-chaired by Brent and Courtney Montgomery, the event featured hosts, personal stories, and a video message from Jimmy Kimmel. The funds will benefit education, empowerment, and research for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. The Montgomerys and volunteers were instrumental in organizing the successful event.
LWV Essay Contest Winners
The League of Women Voters Greenwich has announced the winners of its fourth annual Student Essay Contest. The contest aims to engage young individuals in promoting understanding and participation in the democratic process. The winners are elementary, Callie Smith, Grade 5, Sacred Heart Greenwich; middle, Youhan Liang, Grade 8, Eastern Middle School and Sara Rahimtula, Grade 8, Eastern Middle School; and high school, Claire Maher, Grade 11, Sacred Heart Greenwich; Carina Adams-Szabo, Grade 12, Greenwich High School; and Aubrey Niederhoffer, Grade 11, Greenwich High School (winner). These students from various schools in Greenwich showcased their talent and insight in their essays.
Greenwich United Way Raises $1.6 Million for Adolescent Behavioral Health Program
Greenwich United Way plans to launch a groundbreaking Adolescent Behavioral Health Outpatient Program in collaboration with Greenwich Hospital, following a successful fundraising campaign that raised $1.6 million. The new facility will provide accessible mental health services for teenagers and their parents, addressing the community’s growing needs. The funds raised will also cover the cost of care for those who cannot afford services, ensuring financial constraints do not hinder access. Support can be provided through donations or by calling 203-869-2221.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Greenwich Natives Earn Competitive Internship
S.E. Minor & Company chose Nicole Winn and Sage Haroche for their engineering and environmental internships in 2023. Nicole is an Environmental Engineering major at Northeastern University, and Sage is pursuing a double major in environmental science and economics at UCLA. These internships were awarded after a competitive selection process. Established in 1887, S.E. Minor & Company is a renowned land-use firm offering surveying, engineering, environmental services, and planning & permitting.
Burke Award Dinner to Honor Resilient Craig and Suzanne Packer
Burke Rehabilitation’s annual Burke Award dinner on June 8 will honor Craig and Suzanne Packer for their resilience. Suzanne Packer has been an active member of the Greenwich Red Cross Board of Directors, while Craig Packer is a Co-Founder and Senior Managing Director of Blue Owl. Additionally, retiring Board Chair John R. McCarthy will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Burke Award recognizes notable contributions to rehabilitation medicine.
Residents complete Project Search program at Greenwich Hospital
Greenwich and Stamford residents Caitlin Daingerfield, Harry Perlman, and James Warner recently completed the Project Search work skills program at Greenwich Hospital. The program, offered by Abilis, supports individuals with special needs. Over nine months, the interns received training and mentorship from various hospital departments. Abilis CEO expressed gratitude to Greenwich Hospital for their positive impact and commended the dedicated employees who helped the interns succeed.
GHS Music Teacher Performs with The Temptations and Four Tops
Greenwich High School music teacher Jason Polise, a freelance musician, recently performed with The Temptations and the Four Tops in Bridgeport. Despite the short notice, he enjoys the variety of playing with different groups and finds fulfillment in live performances. Polise shares his experiences with students, emphasizing the importance of hard work and passion in pursuing a music career. He hopes to inspire and teach students about dedication in the industry.
SCHOOLS
GHS Choir Director retires After 24 Years
Greenwich High School’s Choral Pops Concert honored retiring Director of Choirs, Mr. Patrick Taylor, after his 24-year teaching career. The concert featured four choirs and a special song co-written by Mr. Taylor. Surprise appearances from alumni and heartfelt tributes highlighted his impact, while Mr. Taylor expressed pride in the choral program’s growth. Students and faculty expressed gratitude for his influence.
GA Considering Ambitious Bussing Program
Greenwich Academy discussed an ambitious busing program during a Planning & Zoning Commission meeting to address traffic and potentially increase enrollment. The school currently has an enrollment cap of 730 students. They also mentioned plans to purchase the Indian Spring subdivision for athletic fields and staff housing. The commission expressed concerns about traffic impact and requested updates on the busing program in the future.
GHS Hosts First International Night
Greenwich High School’s inaugural International Night celebrated diverse cultures with food, dance performances, and a string quartet. Despite pandemic challenges, the event drew over 300 attendees and showcased GHS’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Organizers aim to make it a cherished tradition.
CMS More Solid Numbers are Over Budget
The cost to build a new Central Middle School exceeds the budget, prompting discussions on funding options. Turner Construction presented a higher estimate of $107 million to $117 million compared to the approved budget of $67.5 million. The Board of Education and Board of Estimate and Taxation will discuss next steps.
GHS students shine in CT COLT Artwork Contest
Greenwich High School students have been recognized for their artistic talents in the CT COLT Artwork Contest. The contest aims to promote language study and creativity among students. Winners from Greenwich High School excelled in the 3D and Dynamic Digital categories, showcasing their creativity and skills. Their achievements highlight their artistic abilities in the statewide competition.
GHS Teacher Receives Fulbright-Hays Fellowship in Brazil and Argentina
Joe Williamson, a Social Studies Teacher at GHS, has been chosen for a prestigious Fulbright-Hays Teacher Fellowship in Brazil and Argentina. As one of only 16 educators selected nationwide, he will spend five weeks exploring the history, culture, geography, and education systems of these countries. The program aims to enrich teachers’ knowledge and enable them to develop engaging lessons and curricula to benefit their students upon their return. The Fulbright program, administered by the United States Department of State, supports educational exchange initiatives globally.
Cos Cob Resident Inducted into Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
YinXia Ng, a resident of Cos Cob, has been inducted into the prestigious Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at the University of Southern California. Phi Kappa Phi is the oldest and highly esteemed all-discipline collegiate honor society in the United States. Membership is selective and recognizes academic excellence across various disciplines, with invitations extended to top-performing students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The society was founded in 1897 and has chapters on over 325 campuses.
GHS Temporarily Closes Student Center due to Fights
Due to recent fights, Greenwich High School temporarily closed the student center during lunchtime. The school administration expressed concern over students filming and cheering on the altercations. Safety measures will be improved, students involved will be addressed, and meetings will reinforce expectations. Support will be offered to affected students, and reminders about social media consequences will be given. The closure of the student center was unrelated to the fights and was due to a resolved bathroom issue.
SPORTS
GHS Girls Lacrosse Advances to Class L Quarterfinals
Greenwich High School’s girls lacrosse team had an impressive start in the CIAC Class L Tournament, with Emma Abbazia scoring five goals on her birthday in their 13-5 win over Staples. The victory advanced them to the Class L quarterfinals, where they will face Ridgefield for the third time this season.
GHS Girls Tennis Dominates, Advances to Semifinals
The second-seeded Greenwich High School girls tennis team advanced to the semifinals of the CIAC Class LL Tournament with a dominant performance against 10th-seeded Glastonbury. They won every match in straight sets in both singles and doubles categories. With their 19th win of the season, Greenwich secured a 7-0 victory.
GHS Boys Tennis One Step Closer to Perfect Season
The Greenwich High School boys tennis team secured their 20th victory of the season, putting them just two wins away from a perfect season and their ultimate goal of winning the CIAC Class LL Tournament championship. As the second seed, they defeated 10th-seeded Westhill with a 6-1 home victory in the quarterfinals. Their next challenge is a crucial match against FCIAC rival Darien, with the winner advancing to the Class LL state tournament finals.
GHS Boys Track Team Defends FCIAC Championship Title
The Greenwich High School boys track and field team emerged victorious at the FCIAC Championships for the second consecutive year. With a team score of 92 points, they secured the team title, narrowly beating Trumbull (86 points) and Danbury (85 points). In a close competition, Greenwich won the 4×400-meter relay, solidifying their victory. Senior Gianluca Bianchi stood out by winning two individual events, including the 400-meter run with a time of 48.24 seconds.
Aspetuck Valley Rugby Club Claims Connecticut State Championship
In a rematch of last year’s final, Greenwich High School’s girls rugby team aimed to defend their state championship against Aspetuck Valley Rugby Club. However, Aspetuck Valley emerged victorious this time, securing a 56-19 win in the Connecticut State Championship game. Aspetuck Valley showcased their strength, having recently placed fifth at the Girls Club Nationals. Despite the loss, the Greenwich Cardinals took pride in reaching the championship game and giving their best effort.
GHS Girls Tennis Eyes CIAC Class LL Tournament Final
Greenwich High School’s girls tennis team seeks a spot in the CIAC Class LL Tournament final at Wesleyan University. After an undefeated regular season, the second-seeded Cardinals swept 18th-seeded Westhill in the first round. They are set to host 10th-seeded Glastonbury in the quarterfinals, and Coach Julie Shropshire is confident in her team’s positive mindset and determination for success.
GHS Boys Tennis Cruises into CIAC Class LL Quarterfinals
Greenwich High School boys tennis team, fresh off their FCIAC championship win, continues their quest for the CIAC Class LL Tournament title. They dominated No. 18 East Hartford with a 7-0 victory in the first round. With a perfect 19-0 record, they advanced to the quarterfinals to host 10th-seeded Westhill.
Greenwich Golfer Allison Bauer Sets Record, Undefeated Season
Greenwich sophomore Allison Bauer broke the high school course record with a 3-under par 35, helping the Cardinals win 173-184 against Staples and finish the regular season undefeated at 12-0. Bauer’s score sets a new record following course layout changes in 2021.
GHS Boys Volleyball Advances in Class L Tournament
Greenwich High School’s boys volleyball team swept Fairfield Warde in the CIAC Class L state Tournament qualifiers, winning 3-0. Led by senior co-captains Ben Bowers and Ricardo Prado, supported by James Kovac’s defense and Jack Konigsberg’s assists, the team secured a spot in the Class L Tournament’s opening round.
Greenwich Jr Premier Field Hockey Launches Youth Program
AGHS Field Hockey Club, led by coach Alex Gheorghe, is excited to introduce the new Youth Program, Greenwich Jr Premier Field Hockey, open to Greenwich residents. The program will run from late August to October or early November, with practices held twice a week and games on weekends. There will be no tryouts, and players will be assigned to teams based on their level and the number of participants.
GHS Girls Golf Team Shines on Senior Day
Greenwich High School’s girls golf team celebrated Senior Day with a dominant win, maintaining their perfect season. Led by Caroline McShea’s 1-over par 38 and Charlotte Langhorne’s 2-over par 39, Greenwich secured a convincing 169-240 victory over Danbury at Griffith E. Harris Golf Course.
FROM HARTFORD
Gov. Lamont to Sign Early Voting Law
Governor Lamont will sign a new law for early voting in various elections, with different durations based on the type of election. Every municipality must establish at least one early voting location. This move aligns Connecticut with the majority of states, promoting higher voter participation. The bill has bipartisan support, passed both the House and Senate, and awaits the governor’s signature after an engrossing and approval process.
Gov. Lamont Distributes $70m in State Funding
Governor Ned Lamont distributed $70 million in state funding as bonus payments to child care and early childhood education staff in Connecticut. The initiative aims to stabilize the industry and address low wages. Around 21,000 educators and staff members are benefiting from these payments. Full-time employees receive $1,700 and part-time employees receive $650, with additional funds based on specific criteria. Visit www.ctoec.org/wage-supports-for-early-childhood-educators for more information.
Minimum Wage to Increase to $15
Connecticut’s minimum wage will increase to $15 per hour starting June 1, 2023, as announced by Governor Ned Lamont. This change is a result of legislation signed four years ago for gradual wage increases. Governor Lamont and Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz highlighted the goal of preventing full-time workers from living in poverty and supporting working families. The law also includes provisions for future adjustments based on economic indicators.
Connecticut Summer Enrichment Program receives $13M in Grants
Over $13 million in grants for the Connecticut Summer Enrichment Program have been announced, benefiting 110 organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. The program offers low or no-cost enrichment activities for K-12 students during the summer, addressing the educational impact of COVID-19. The grants support summer camps and childcare centers, prioritizing communities disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Over 66,000 students are expected to benefit, promoting education, social skills, and emotional well-being. Program information can be found on summerct.org.
