POLICE & FIRE
Police Rescue Occupants of Two Flooded Vehicles
There were no motor vehicle crashes related to the recent flooding that inundated Greenwich from this past Sunday, July 9 into Monday, June 10, according to GPD’s Captain John Slusarz, though two vehicles did become stuck trying to move along flooded roads. The occupants of both vehicles were rescued by the police without incident, Slusarz stated.
Four New Officers in the GPD
The Greenwich Police Department welcomed new members on Thursday, June 6. Officers Donald Shaffer, Minju Kim, Nicholas Camardella, and John Tarr were ceremoniously sworn in by First Selectman Fred Camillo at the esteemed Town of Greenwich Public Safety Complex. Commencing their academy studies on Friday, July 7 at the Police Officer Standards and Training Council in Meriden, CT, these officers are set to complete a rigorous six-month program before returning to the GPD for a 16-week field training program.
Car Wash Incident Leaves Two Wounded
An incident at Splash Car Wash on Monday morning, July 10 in Cos Cob led to the closure of that section of the Post Road for several hours. According to the Greenwich Police Department, a vehicle exiting the car wash struck an employee and subsequently collided with another car. The driver of the second car sustained minor injuries and was transported to Greenwich Hospital, while the employee suffered more serious injuries and was taken to Stamford Hospital. The condition of the employee remains unknown. The Post Road has since reopened, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.
FROM TOWN HALL
Playground Renovations at Dundee
The Department of Parks and Recreation announced on Thursday, July 6, that the playground at the International School at Dundee is set to close temporarily from June 22 to August 10 for the installation of a new playground. They went on to thank residents’ for their patience.
Boat Slips Open at the Town Marinas
The Department of Parks and Recreation announced the availability of 20′ boat slips at Town Marinas for the 2023 season. For detailed information and inquiries, they requested that residents reach out to the Department’s Boating Division at 203-618-7651.
Residents Encouraged to Participate in Boots & Shoes
The town’s Department of Human Services has reminded residents to apply for the Community Gifts Program, Boots & Shoes. Eligible applications must be submitted by Tuesday, July 25 and gift card distribution will begin in early August. This program aims to provide schoolchildren, aged 5-15 including incoming Kindergarteners, with gift cards redeemable for footwear at select stores. Residents interested in applying are urged to contact their Greenwich case manager promptly to schedule an appointment.
AROUND TOWN
Greenwich Library in Cos Cob Releases Survey Results
Greenwich Library has unveiled the results of its recent community survey, providing insight into views and preferences surrounding the Cos Cob branch. With over 2,000 participants across multiple languages, the survey highlights key findings, including the popularity of collections and book displays, calls for more space in the community room and children’s area, and desires for both enhancements and new features in the library. The survey also showcased an appreciation for the helpful staff and the library’s inviting atmosphere. The library’s buildings and grounds committee, in collaboration with an architect, is now developing a renovation plan based on community feedback, with funding expected from public and private sources.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Mr. Grumpus Finds Forever Home
A cat put up for adoption under the assumed name “Larry,” and whose picture and description was sent out in a recent edition of First Selectman Fred Camillo’s Community Connections, was recognized by town resident Heidi Shafranek. “Larry” had in fact been fed and sheltered by Shafranek and her family last Fall before he disappeared the subsequent Spring. The cat, which Shafranek’s family had named “Mr. Grumpus,” was reunited with Shafranek and given a forever home shortly thereafter. The First Selectman noted “just how rewarding pet adoption can be for everyone” when describing the reconnection.
LOCAL BUSINESSES & NONPROFITS
A Gala to Remember at CLC
Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County (CLC) recently hosted its annual spring gala, “A Night to Remember: A CLC Celebration,” to raise funds for their programs. The event featured nearly 250 attendees and marked the first time since the COVID pandemic that CLC children performed for the audience. CLC provides early childhood education and care services with a focus on health, nutrition, and family support. The organization is accredited by NAEYC and operates private pay and government-subsidized programs, serving almost 900 children across multiple locations in Stamford. The event honored retiring CEO Marc Jaffe as a Champion of Children.
SCHOOLS
Sacred Heart Students and Chaperones Embark on Pilgrimage
Today, a group of students, alumnae, and chaperones from Sacred Heart embarked on the annual Lourdes Pilgrimage. They joined the Ampleforth Pilgrimage and will spend the next ten days in Lourdes, France, serving Assisted Pilgrims. This longstanding tradition of over 35 years allows the Sacred Heart students to walk alongside the Pilgrims and enjoy the significance of Lourdes. The journey aims to foster a sense of compassion and community among the participants.
Kindergarten Cutoff Date Change
Connecticut’s new kindergarten cutoff date requires children to be 5 years old on or before September 1 to enter kindergarten. Certain parents believe the change can hinder their child’s development, while others support it for academic and emotional preparedness. The change aligns Connecticut with other states and gives more discretion to school principals for early admissions.
CMS Committee Meeting Notes
The Central Middle School (CMS) building committee recently held their weekly meeting to discuss the ongoing renovation plans. The meeting addressed motions proposed by member Michael Spilo, representing the RTM. One motion suggested exploring potential cost savings from alternative siting options, such as relocating the school and fields to nearby Pomerance Park, which failed to pass. Another motion, which aimed to recommend reductions in building programming space, was withdrawn. The CMS project has faced ongoing discussions and community engagement forums to address various concerns and design considerations.
SPORTS
Rising Sophomore Qualifies for National Golf Championship
Greenwich resident Jack Chung, a rising sophomore at Brunswick School, has qualified for the prestigious U.S. Amateur Championship at Cherry Hills Country Club in Cherry Hills Village, Colorado. As one of the youngest competitors, Chung earned his spot by shooting an impressive 2-under-par 138 at the Sectional Qualifying Round. The U.S. Amateur Championship will take place from August 14 to 20. Chung expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in such a significant amateur tournament and credited his hard work for his success. This follows his participation in last year’s U.S. Junior Amateur Championship.
GA Student Honored as Diving Athlete
Greenwich Academy’s Grace Wu has been recognized as a NISCA Girls One-Meter Diving All-American athlete for the second consecutive year. As a rising senior, Wu excelled in both school and club competitions, defending her title at the New England Prep School Swimming Association Division I Championships. With outstanding performances at various championships, Wu accumulated impressive scores and earned gold medals. She expressed her joy and gratitude for the support of her teammates and coach. Wu was joined by two other Connecticut high school divers, Hannah Chuckas and Alison Coburn, in receiving NISCA All-America honors.
GHS Football Team Prepares to Take on New Quarterback
Greenwich High School’s football team is preparing to take on a new quarterback following the graduation of Jack Wilson. Seniors Rocco Grillo, Brandon Boone, and Kaine Rama are competing for the starting role and gained valuable experience at the Grip It and Rip It 7-on-7 Passing Championships. Overall, the Cardinals had an impressive performance, posting a record of 3-1 on the first day and showcasing the potential of their new quarterbacks. Coach Anthony Morello expressed his satisfaction with the team’s progress, emphasizing the rising seniors’ leadership and the promising skills displayed by each quarterback. The Cardinals aim to maintain their successful offensive performance this season.
GHS Football Sets Goals for Upcoming Season
Greenwich High School’s football team is preparing for the upcoming season with a talented and deep receiving corps. The team showcased their skills at the Grip It and Rip It Championships, impressing with especial speed and depth. Despite graduating several key players, the Cardinals are confident in their new group of receivers, including James Wailgum, Charlie Dixon, and a wealth of rising seniors. The team’s offense aims to match or surpass last year’s performance, while the defense is also expected to make a strong impact. With the challenging FCIAC schedule, the Cardinals are focused on defending their state championship.
FROM HARTFORD
Spotted Lanternfly Expected in Connecticut
As July unfolds, so does the emergence of the adult spotted lanternfly (SLF), an invasive insect causing concern in Connecticut. Its presence poses potential threats to forest trees, fruit crops, and vineyards (particularly grapes). Should you encounter this distinct and harmful insect, please report it promptly. Refrain from moving any wood, vegetation, or live insects from the site. Further information and handling guidance, per the state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, is available at https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Forestry/Forest-Protection/Spotted-Lanternfly.
OUR NEIGHBORS
Arson Attacks in Port Chester
A series of deliberately-set car fires plagues Port Chester, N.Y., near the Greenwich border. Following a series of car arson cases in June, additional vehicles were destroyed last week. On Saturday, four cars were set ablaze on Washington Street, Westchester Avenue, and New Broad Street. The Port Chester Police Department is actively investigating these incidents, alongside three previous suspicious vehicle fires reported on Spring Street in June. The Westchester County Cause and Origin Team confirmed the intentional nature of the fires. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective Carriero at 914-939-6332.
