Support Maui Wildfire Victims
First Selectman Fred Camillo has encouraged residents to aid victims Maui’s wildfires. In conversation with Stephanie Dunn Ashley, CEO of the American Red Cross’ Metro New York North office (which operates in Greenwich), Camillo highlighted that financial donations are paramount. He also noted that nearby groups, including Americares in Stamford, are contributing to the cause. To assist, individuals can donate to Red Cross Disaster Relief by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or texting REDCROSS to 90999 for a $10 donation. Checks to American Red Cross Metro New York North, with “Hawaii” in the memo, can also be sent to 99 Indian Field Road, Greenwich, CT 06830.
POLICE & FIRE
Officer Engages Youths in Community
Officer Caldwell recently met with two local youths, providing a thorough explanation of his equipment and computer operations, highlighting their role in his duties. The Greenwich Police Department emphasizes community engagement to enhance public safety and encourages officers to foster partnerships with residents for effective problem-solving. To share suggestions or comments for improving services, visit [https://www.greenwichct.gov/2472/Citizen-Comment-Program](https://www.greenwichct.gov/2472/Citizen-Comment-Program).
Child Attacked by Bear Near Greenwich
A 7-year-old was attacked by a bear 20 minutes from Greenwich in North Castle, NY on the morning of Tuesday, August 22, prompting hospitalization and animal termination by North Castle Police. Bears have also been spotted in New Canaan. Greenwich Police have issued safety reminders, emphasizing that bear sightings are common in the state. GPD advises against feeding bears, removing bird feeders from March to November, and not leaving pet food outdoors.
Police Rescue Sinking Vessel Near Greenwich
Greenwich Police Department’s Marine Section 139 swiftly intervened on August 19 to rescue a sinking vessel near Great Captain Island. The officers managed to tow the vessel to safety at a marina while simultaneously pumping out the water. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Police advised boaters to review safety devices and perform pre-operation boat checks. The Marine Section, operational year-round with a fleet of three vessels, ensures a rapid and versatile response to diverse water and weather conditions during the boating season’s 16-hour daily operations.
Firefighters Contain Blaze on Sherwood Avenue
On Wednesday morning, firefighters tackled a residential fire on Sherwood Ave, off of King Street on the western side of town. Deputy Fire Chief Keith Millette reported that the blaze erupted around 9 AM at 10 Sherwood Ave. While a nearby cottage suffered significant damage, the main structure and surrounding areas were protected. Residents evacuated without harm, and the fire was rapidly extinguished. Millette emphasized the fire’s containment to the building of origin, acknowledging extensive damage throughout.
GFD Welcomes New Recruits
The Greenwich Fire Department extends a warm welcome to new Firefighters McFarland, Koenecke, and Tobia. These recruits are scheduled to commence their training at the CT fire academy in the upcoming week. Additionally, the department has introduced its latest addition, Chaplain David Bennet.
Firefighter Jimmy Stashenko Retires After 36 Years
Firefighter Jimmy Stashenko completed his last shift with The Greenwich Professional Firefighters Local 1042 earlier this month, marking the end of his impressive 36-year journey. Jimmy joined the team in 1987 and, up until recently, had been serving with Engine Co. 8.
Sobran Memorial Garden Rededicated
The garden in front of the Old Greenwich fire station was re-dedicated in memory of firefighter Todd Sobran on July 31st. State Representative Steve Meskers honored Peter Grunow from Gro Pro Landscape Co, and First Selectman Fred Camillo proclaimed “L Day” to recognize Peter’s 35 years of enhancing the town’s aesthetics through landscaping. Under Peter’s leadership, Gro Pro transformed the Sound Beach Fire Station’s front with plantings, contributing to Old Greenwich’s charm. The community, including the Old Greenwich Garden Club, expressed gratitude for Gro Pro’s work in revitalizing various public spaces.
FROM TOWN HALL
Improved Water Levels Ease Drought
First Selectman Fred Camillo shared encouraging news from Aquarion Water Company in his weekly newsletter on August 11. Recent rains have led to a significant improvement in the Bargh Reservoir’s water levels, reaching the 20-year average. This development indicates that Greenwich is not expected to face further drought concerns for the remainder of the year, per Aquarion’s forecasts. Regular communication with Aquarion will persist, according to the First Selectman, to keep residents informed of any updates on the water supply situation.
Glenville Forum: Strong Turnout, Meaningful Dialogue
The Glenville community forum hosted by First Selectman Fred Camillo and Selectwoman Lauren Rabin on August 14 saw impressive turnout, creating a standing-room-only scenario at Glenville Fire House. Residents voiced concerns and shared insights, fostering meaningful dialogue. Acknowledging the demand, plans for a larger, second forum in late September are underway. A recording of the Zoom stream is available on YouTube for those who missed it.
Parks Photo Winners Shine Bright
The Greenwich Department of Parks and Recreation celebrated winners of the “For the Love of Parks and Recreation” photo competition this week, with over 100 submissions. Director Joseph Siciliano expressed excitement about the response, highlighting the unique aspects of Greenwich’s parks. The competition, held throughout July, showcased participants’ cherished elements of public parks.
1st Place: Laurence Allen – “Mother Observing Twin Sons Rowing”
2nd Place: Andrew Cummings – “Nature’s Beauty at Greenwich Point”
3rd Place: Christine Rathbun – “Silhouetted Figure at Tod’s Point”
AROUND TOWN
Kill Spotted Lanternflies On Sight with Any Means At Your Disposal
The Greenwich Conservation Commission has issued a call for residents to actively eliminate spotted lanternflies, as sightings of this invasive species rise in the town. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) confirms the presence of these flies in several counties, posing a threat to local environments, residential areas, and agriculture, including forests, orchards, vineyards, and nurseries. The CAES warns of the impact on Connecticut’s ecological balance and encourages vigilance. The Connecticut Department of Transportation has also taken steps to prevent their spread, posting signs at rest stops urging motorists to check for lanternflies on their vehicles. More information on the bug can be found at https://portal.ct.gov/caes/caps/caps/spotted-lanternfly—slf.
St. Roch’s Feast: Celebrations and Policy Concerns
Greenwich’s St. Roch’s Feast drew crowds with games, rides, and camaraderie, concluding with a Sunday procession led by Father Carl McIntosh and his service dog. Festively, attendees partook in alcoholic beverages sold on church property. Less festively, the event’s spread across both church and school premises led to a violation of the Greenwich Public Schools policy against alcohol on school property. School property use conditions were approved by the Board of Education, necessitating policy compliance.
West Nile Virus Detected in Greenwich Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes in Greenwich have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV), according to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES). Out of 819 mosquitoes collected near the Cohen Eastern Greenwich Civic Center site, two were found to carry WNV. The town’s Department of Health identified the mosquito species as Culex pipiens and Culex restuans. While no human cases have been reported in Connecticut this year, the Greenwich Health Department is implementing preventive measures, including larviciding programs to control mosquito populations. Residents are advised to take precautions when outdoors to avoid mosquito bites, which can transmit WNV; further information on those precautions can be found at https://www.greenwichct.gov/575/Health-Department.
Federal Funds Eyed for Pemberwick Dam Removal
Greenwich’s Pemberwick Dam, a long-standing safety concern, could potentially benefit from federal funds earmarked for dam removals nationwide. The dam, which lacked regular safety inspections for over a decade, has raised concerns among town officials. During a community forum on August 14, First Selectman Fred Camillo mentioned the possibility of using federal funds to remove the dam, which holds no flood control purpose and is now deemed obsolete. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed into law in 2021, allocates $800 million for dam removal projects. The dam’s owners, the Mill-Land Conservation Trust Inc. and Greenwich Hills Residents Association Inc., have been identified, but further considerations on environmental impacts and replacement structures are pending.
Greenwich Avenue Water Main Replacement Delayed
Aquarion Water Company’s planned major water main replacement project on Greenwich Avenue, initially slated to start in the spring, has been postponed until September. The year-long project aims to replace old six-inch and eight-inch water mains with new 12-inch lines between Elm Street and Grigg Street. The delay is attributed to the lengthy permit approval process and coordination efforts to minimize disruptions on the busy road. Temporary restoration will be in place before Thanksgiving, with work pausing during the holiday season. The project area spans approximately 1,500 feet of Greenwich Avenue.
LOCAL BUSINESSES & NONPROFITS
Ashforth Manages Expanded Bruce Museum
Albert B. Ashforth, Inc., a division of The Ashforth Company, headquartered in Stamford, has secured the property management role for the expanded Bruce Museum in Greenwich. Following a substantial capital improvement effort that enlarged the museum to 80,000 square feet, Ashforth’s management services will oversee property operations, staffing, maintenance, and more. The appointment reflects Ashforth’s commitment to community support, as demonstrated by their contributions to various nonprofits including the Bruce Museum, Audubon Connecticut, and Greenwich Historical Society.
Green & Tonic Expanding in Greenwich
Green & Tonic, is set to open two new locations in Greenwich. The first site will occupy the former post office building within Greenwich Plaza shopping center, offering an array of plant-based offerings including breakfast sandwiches, smoothies, juices, acai bowls, and more. Additionally, a new oat milk soft-serve ice cream called SWIRL will be introduced. The second location is planned for Old Greenwich. The expansion comes as the company aims to bring freshness and excitement to the local dining scene. The exact opening dates have not been provided but are expected before the year’s end.
Grant Boosts Greenwich Historical Preservation
The Greenwich Historical Society’s commitment to preserving local heritage is receiving a boost with a Good to Great 2.0 Grant worth $418,057. This grant, provided by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development and CT Humanities, will drive essential environmental updates at the Bush Holley House in Cos Cob. Debra Mecky, Historical Society’s Executive Director and CEO, envisions these funds aiding in the restoration of a service staircase removed during 1960s renovations. This restoration will offer deeper insights into the lives of the 15 enslaved individuals owned by the Bush Family from 1790 to 1825.
Greenwich Woods Redevelopment Plan Advances
Plans for the redevelopment of Greenwich Woods skilled nursing facility have been refined, proposing a five-story apartment building comprising 215 units. Highlighting environmental considerations, the project includes wetlands restoration, planting 400 trees, and an extensive invasive plant remediation plan. The Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency approved the latest environmental proposal. A third of the units will be affordable, adhering to Connecticut’s affordable housing law. Eagleview Holdings, the developer, intends to enhance the site with amenities such as a playground and a community garden. The revised application is slated for review by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Greenwich Establishes Sister City Relationship
Last spring, Greenwich established a sister-city relationship with Izyum, Ukraine, demonstrating support amid the ongoing conflict in that country. Town native Olga Litvinenko, along with Dr. Inna Lazar, have played pivotal roles in forging the partnership. Litvinenko in particular has begun relaying updates from Izyum to our local community. Recent developments include crucial repairs to the water supply and ongoing efforts to mend road surfaces damaged by war. Notably, the project encompasses installing modular boiler rooms and restoring high-rise buildings with global contributions, including from Greenwich, making it possible. Further details are available on the USA for Ukraine website.
66-Year-Old At the End of Cross-Country Cycling Journey
After vowing at 24 to repeat his 1981 cross-country bike trip by age 65, Anthony Anrig, now 66, is nearing completion of his cycling journey from Greenwich to San Diego. The 3,300-mile trip began on May 19, with Anrig utilizing an electric bike to cover approximately 50 to 80 miles daily. Unlike his 1981 35-day trip, he now incorporates motel stays for e-bike charging. Anrig’s sister praises his preparedness and the virtual connection he maintains with family through a blog and Google Maps. Once back, Anrig plans to continue biking on trails.
SCHOOLS
Investigation Clears School Hiring Practices
The Town of Greenwich unveiled a 56-page report on Tuesday, August 22, delving into the independent investigation of hiring practices within Greenwich Public Schools. Prompted by an incident involving recordings released by Project Veritas, which featured former Assistant Principal of Cos Cob School Jeremy Boland favoring younger, non-Catholic candidates for teaching positions, the inquiry authorized by First Selectman Fred Camillo sought to uncover possible systemic discrimination. The report found no evidence of age, religion, or political affiliation-based bias in hiring. Boland resigned, and the investigation cost $346,648.
Greenwich Educator Named Connecticut History Teacher
Karen Boyea of Greenwich High School has been named the 2023 Connecticut History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. With over two decades of experience, Boyea’s commitment to history education is highlighted by the award. Established in 2004, the annual award recognizes outstanding history educators across all grade levels. Boyea’s accolade includes a $1,000 honorarium, an archive of American history books, Gilder Lehrman educational resources, and eligibility for the 2023 National History Teacher of the Year Award. The national winner will be announced in Fall of 2023.
Greenwich School Cultivates Hydroponic Farming
Drawing inspiration from the area’s agricultural legacy, Greenwich Country Day School is expanding its horizons with a hydroponic gardening venture. Utilizing an 8-by-40-foot “Grow Trailer,” students are growing lettuce and herbs using water-based nutrients and energy-efficient lighting. The school, aiming to sell surplus produce locally, seeks a special permit for commercial agricultural use. Aligning with its sustainability initiatives, the school is cooperating with Mike’s Organic for sales. Designed to educate students about food, this year-round venture showcases agricultural education’s evolving landscape. The application for the special permit is pending review by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Greenwich Academy Acquires Land, Sparks Community Development
Greenwich Academy’s recent acquisition of a 54-acre parcel of land from the Rockefeller family for $18.35 million holds promise for community development. Approximately 15 of the 54 acres of the central Greenwich property were deemed developable. First Selectman Fred Camillo discussed the potential for public trails and collaboration with the town, particularly in creating an athletic facility that could serve as both an ice rink and a fieldhouse. While Greenwich Academy’s plans for the property are still evolving, the acquisition presents opportunities for enriching educational programs, sustainability initiatives, and more. Community engagement will play a key role in shaping the land’s future use.
GCDS Cultivates Hydroponic Farming
Drawing inspiration from the area’s agricultural legacy, Greenwich Country Day School is expanding its horizons with a hydroponic gardening venture. Utilizing an 8-by-40-foot “Grow Trailer,” students are growing lettuce and herbs using water-based nutrients and energy-efficient lighting. The school, aiming to sell surplus produce locally, seeks a special permit for commercial agricultural use. Aligning with its sustainability initiatives, the school is cooperating with Mike’s Organic for sales. Designed to educate students about food, this year-round venture showcases agricultural education’s evolving landscape. The application for the special permit is pending review by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Beloved Brunswick Teacher Passes Away
Upper School math teacher and advisor at Brunswick, Grace Nicklas Warne, passed away Saturday, August 12, after a two-year battle with illness. Grace, who had been at Brunswick since 2006, was noted for an especial dedication to the well-being and efficient development of her students; Brunswick’s Head of School Tom Philip referred to Grace’s “example of positivity, strength, and persistence” as “an inspiration to us all.”
Students Win 2nd Prize: Energy-Saving Video Triumph
Eastern Middle School students Even Bielensen Ford Paulson, Eliana Orlosky, Soleil Meehan, and Ena Savovska have been honored for their victory in the 18th Annual eesmarts Student Contest, organized by Energize Connecticut in partnership with AVANGRID, Inc. The contest encourages energy efficiency learning among K-12 students in Connecticut. The team, competing in the 6th-grade category, secured 2nd place by creating a 55-second social media video featuring practical energy-saving tips. Their engaging video highlighted concepts like coordinating deliveries, using eco-friendly transportation, and powering down electronics when not in use.
SPORTS
Sisters Shine in Triathlon Nationals
Greenwich Country Day School students, the Putka sisters, Macy and Gisele, showcased their athletic prowess at the competitive 2023 USA Triathlon Nationals in Milwaukee. In the Youth Girls 14-Year-Old Female category, Gisele Putka took first place with a remarkable time of 40 minutes, 44 seconds. Gisele’s performance was highlighted by her swim time of 5:45 and 12:14 run. Macy Putka secured second place in the 15-Year-Old Female category, completing the event in 40:16, standing out with her 11:53 run.
Rocky Point Club Dominates Swimming Championships
Rocky Point Club once again dominated the annual Fairfield County Swimming League Championships, securing its 10th consecutive victory in the club standings. The championships, held at the Wilton YMCA, showcased exceptional performances by the Old Greenwich-based club’s swimmers. Gisele Putka of Rocky Point emerged victorious in the Youth Girls 14-Year-Old Female group, clocking a remarkable time of 40 minutes, 44 seconds. Macy Putka secured second place in the 15-Year-Old Female category, completing the event in 40:16. With outstanding achievements throughout the event, Rocky Point Club continues to shine as a swimming powerhouse.
Greenwich High’s Water Polo Excellence
Greenwich High School’s girls water polo team achieved a perfect 10-0 record in the spring season, led by senior captains Emma Gustafsson and CJ Weigl. Gustafsson’s prolific goal-scoring prowess earned her NISCA Girls Water Polo Second Team All-America honors. Weigl’s impressive goalkeeping skills secured her a spot on the NISCA Third Team All-America list. The duo’s outstanding performances captured the attention of the National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association, highlighting their leadership and excellence. Gustafsson is joining the University of Michigan’s Division I water polo team, and Weigl the Princeton University’s Division I water polo challenge.
LOCAL POLITICS
Controversial Social media Posts Stir Concerns in Greenwich Candidate Nominations
In the lead-up to elections, Greenwich faces candidate selection controversies. Several nominations for the Board of Education sparked concerns, as the chosen candidates, Karen Kowalski, Wendy Vizzo Walsh, Adele Carroll, and Rich Niemynski, revealed lingering unsavory online posts. Niemynski, who had recently privatized his Facebook profile, faced particularly intense backlash for his posts.
Greenwich Holds Lottery to Arrange Election Ballot Order
Adhering to state statutes, the Greenwich Registrars of Voters are set to conduct a public lottery on August 24 at 8:30 AM, determining the horizontal order of names within rows on the municipal election ballot, in anticipation of the municipal election on November 7. The event, held at the Registrars of Voters office in town hall, is crucial in ensuring a fair and organized election process.
FROM HARTFORD
CT Sales Tax-Free Week: Savings Opportunity
Having begun on August 20 and continuing through August 26, Connecticut is reaching the end of its Sales Tax-Free Week, offering families an opportunity to save during the back-to-school season. Governor Lamont highlighted the significance of this timing for stretching budgets while supporting local businesses. Detailed information on eligible tax-free items can be found at portal.ct.gov/DRS/Sales-Tax/Sales-Tax-Free-Week.
CT Expands Free School Meals Program
Governor Ned Lamont and CT Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker have revealed a strategy to expand Connecticut’s free school meals initiative in this upcoming academic year. This plan, backed by a $16 million fund from the American Rescue Plan Act, aims to provide additional students with cost-free, nutritious breakfast and lunch. The allocation will facilitate no-cost breakfasts for students in non-Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) schools involved in the School Breakfast Program. Additionally, it will supply free lunches to eligible students for reduced-price meals in non-CEP schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. District reimbursements will be determined by student eligibility.
Sobran Memorial Garden Rededicated
The garden in front of the Old Greenwich fire station was re-dedicated in memory of firefighter Todd Sobran on July 31st. State Representative Steve Meskers honored Peter Grunow from Gro Pro Landscape Co, and First Selectman Fred Camillo proclaimed “L Day” to recognize Peter’s 35 years of enhancing the town’s aesthetics through landscaping. Under Peter’s leadership, Gro Pro transformed the Sound Beach Fire Station’s front with plantings, contributing to Old Greenwich’s charm. The community, including the Old Greenwich Garden Club, expressed gratitude for Gro Pro’s work in revitalizing various public spaces.
