POLICE & FIRE
GPD Looking for Tips
The Greenwich Police Department is looking for information from the public. If you were in Greenwich and outside walking or jogging in the past year when a subject approached you, harassed and/or inappropriately touched you, please contact the tip line, at (203) 622-3333 or Email: TIPS@greenwichct.org, for a call back.
Greenwich Police Host Holiday Toy Drive
The Greenwich Police Department is hosting their annual “Stuff-A-Cruiser” event on December 2nd in front of Greenwich Public Schools, which marks the beginning of their holiday toy drive lasting until December 22nd. If you can’t attend on December 2nd, you have the option to contribute by leaving a new gift in the lobby of the Town of Greenwich Public Safety Complex from December 2nd to December 22nd. This initiative provides an opportunity for the community to come together and support local children in need during the holiday season.
GPF Celebrates 50th Annual Donation
Greenwich Professional Firefighters Local 1042 marked its 50th annual food donation drive, initiated in 1973 by firefighters Skip Lambertson, Chubby Crawford, and Frank Clark. The union annually provides Thanksgiving dinners to widows of former firefighters and other residents in need. This year, Firefighters Frank O’Connor and Nick Cesarini led the effort on November 21, as shown in a photo. Past firefighters, including John Chimblo and John Stashenko, have upheld the tradition of distributing food donations, passing on the spirit of compassion.
Santa Visits Town This Holiday
Limited spots are open this holiday season for Santa Claus to visit town. Families can reserve a Santa visit for their kids or support a volunteer organization that assists the Greenwich Fire Department by sponsoring a family in need. For more details and to schedule Santa’s visit, including special Christmas Day deliveries, contact events@ccfpp.org.
GPD Encourages Home Vacancy Notifications
Greenwich homeowners are encouraged to inform the local police when their homes are vacant, prompting officers to conduct regular checks until their return. Completing a checklist doesn’t guarantee inspections due to high call volumes, but the police department is dedicated to securing vacant homes despite challenges. Sign up here: https://www.greenwichct.gov/FormCenter/Police-4/Dark-House-Checklist-225
White Supremacist Flyers Found in Town
Several residents in town found white supremacist recruitment flyers in their driveways, prompting an investigation by GPD. The flyers, while lacking direct threats, are seen as part of an ongoing propaganda effort by the group. Similar incidents have occurred in other Connecticut communities, including Durham, Trumbull, Glastonbury, Vernon, and Stamford, with mentions of a Nationalist Social Club. The police have not identified the group mentioned in the flyers or the distributors, and they will not release images due to concerns about online promotion. Residents are urged to report any more such flyers to the police at Tips@greenwichct.org.
FROM TOWN HALL
Parks & Rec. Photo Contest
Parks & Recreation is organizing a holiday photography competition for residents. Participants can submit their photos to potentially win a Parks & Recreation Prize Package. The contest is accepting submissions from today, December 1st to December 31st, giving photographers a chance to capture special holiday moments in Greenwich and showcase their artistic vision.
Resident Satisfaction Survey
The Town wants to know what the priorities of its residents are and how they feel about the state of the Town. Take the Resident Satisfaction Survey on the Town of Greenwich website.
Town Advances Drainage Improvement Project
The Town is moving forward with the second phase of the Tomac Avenue, Harding Road, and Forest Avenue Drainage Improvements Project, which aims to address recurring road flooding during storms. Construction is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, with associated road closures. The project’s completion by February 2024 is contingent on weather conditions. It involves the installation of concrete infrastructure and a protective headwall to mitigate flooding in the area. Phase 1, conducted in the Eastern Greenwich Civic Center parking lot and Harding Road, concluded on May 22, 2023. Residents can access project updates on its dedicated webpage.
Parks & Rec. Proposes Fee Adjustments
Greenwich residents may see fee adjustments for certain parks and recreational activities in the upcoming year, while popular passes are expected to remain unchanged. The Greenwich Parks and Recreation department is currently revising its 2024 fee schedule, with over 100 proposed modifications available on the town’s website. These changes cover various increases affecting organized recreation, marine services, and camps, including minor adjustments like a one-dollar increase for Griffith E. Harris Golf Course access. Many fees, such as annual beach passes and ferry fares, will stay the same. The Board of Selectmen will discuss these adjustments on December 14, with an average projected revenue increase of just under 5 percent due to fee increases. These adjustments were made considering factors like minimum wage increases and market comparisons, and the department regularly assesses fee schedules in neighboring towns for competitiveness.
AROUND TOWN
Meteor Showers in December
The Leonid meteor shower which peaked around November 18th remains visible until December 2nd, with NASA recording approximately 15 meteors per hour at its zenith. To witness this event, NASA suggests heading out around midnight away from city lights, allowing your eyes to adapt to the darkness for at least 30 minutes. Meteor showers result from Earth passing through debris from comets or asteroids, with the Leonids producing a meteoric storm every 33 years, the last being in 2002. Following the Leonids, the Geminids meteor shower is set to peak on December 13th.
Greenwich Town Party Ticket Lottery Open
The Greenwich Town Party is currently holding a ticket lottery until December 15 for its event on May 25 at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park. Community tickets are priced at $85 and $25 for seniors, children under 12 can attend for free with registration. The lottery operates on a random selection process, without considering submission time, to ensure fairness. This lottery system was implemented in 2018 due to high demand, and previous parties have featured well-known musicians. Additionally, there are premium options available: Neighbor passes for $500 with enhanced amenities and Sponsor tickets priced at $1,500 with additional perks. To participate in the lottery and find more information, please visit the Greenwich Town Party website before December 15.
Chase Bank Restructures Greenwich Branches
Chase Bank has restructured its Greenwich branch network by merging two locations into a new branch at 231 Greenwich Ave, which opened on November 12th. In early 2024, the branch at 206 Sound Beach Ave in Old Greenwich will merge into the Riverside branch at 1150 E. Putnam Ave, with employees being transferred to nearby branches. These changes are part of Chase’s expansion strategy in Connecticut, where they have opened 18 new branches since 2019, bringing the total to 59.
Old Greenwich Business Properties for Sale
Properties in Old Greenwich’s business district, owned by a long-standing family trust, are up for sale at an estimated price of $25 million. George Boles, an early developer of the district in the 1920s, left his legacy to nieces and nephews from the Nolan and Thomas families, who have now decided to sell these properties. The sale is in the early marketing stage, and they plan to review offers from prospective buyers. The portfolio includes four buildings with apartments, offices, and retail spaces, and the intention is to sell it as a whole. Concerns among local merchants revolve around potential overdevelopment, parking shortages, and rising rental rates.
Town Considers Changes After Records Request
A public records request in town recently raised concerns among residents and prompted officials to reconsider their procedures. The request sought information about parking permit holders, such as names, email addresses, and hometowns, and was released under the state’s Freedom of Information Act after a fee was paid. Deputy Police Chief Kraig Gray communicated this to permit holders via email, emphasizing their commitment to privacy. First Selectman Fred Camillo acknowledged concerns and discussed potential transparency measures, including the possibility of disclosing requester names.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Hanukkah Begins with Culinary Delights
Hanukkah begins on December 7, and in Cos Cob, Greenwich & Delancey is a hidden gem offering traditional kosher Jewish cuisine with a modern twist. Owned by Executive Chef David Teyf, it provides a full-service restaurant experience, curbside pickup for catering, private dining, and more. Chef David’s signature pastrami and a diverse menu have earned him a loyal following. Notably, he supports Holocaust survivors by preparing special packages during Jewish holidays, such as Rosh Hashanah, containing festive meals and traditional items like apples, honey, and round challah.
Parks & Rec. and NTN Launch Food Drives
The Department of Parks & Recreation is organizing food drives at six locations, including Town Hall Lobby, Parks & Recreation Office, Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center, and Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink. They are also using the #GiveHealthy Platform to support Neighbor to Neighbor’s mission of providing nutritious food to local families. These Drives will run until December 16th, and donations can be made here: https://amplify.ampyourgood.com/user/campaigns/4291
Girl Scouts Launch Pet Supply Drive
Local Girl Scouts of Troop 50432, in partnership with Choice Pet, have initiated a pet supply drive running from November 17 to December 8. Their goal is to collect donations to help animals find permanent homes, with collection boxes located at the store’s entrance. The donations will support Paws Crossed Animal Rescue in Elmsford, New York, a place significant to troop members who have adopted pets there.
Tyler G Foundation Grants $45,000
The Tyler G Foundation has awarded a $45,000 grant to Greenwich Hospital to enhance addiction recovery services for the local community, primarily benefiting the Addiction Recovery Center within the hospital’s Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Program. Patrick Gwozdz, CEO of the Tyler G Foundation, expressed support for this partnership and the foundation’s dedication to addressing addiction’s impact on families. Joshua Hrabosky, PsyD, the program director of Outpatient Behavioral Health at Greenwich Hospital, stressed the importance of staying current in addiction treatment and welcomed the grant’s assistance. The Addiction Recovery Center offers services such as crisis intervention, outpatient programs, medication consultations, and family support, provided by a specialized team experienced in various substance use disorders.
S.E.L.F. Marks 5th Anniversary Gala
The Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.) celebrated its 5th Anniversary Gala at the Burning Tree Country Club on November 11. The event raised nearly $375,000 in funding and honored the legacies of George H.W. Bush and Lowell P. Weicker, Jr., recognizing their contributions to disability advocacy and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Several dignitaries and distinguished guests were in attendance. The gala also awarded individuals like Claudia Weicker, Dorothy Stapleton, Andrew Feinstein, and Stephanie Cowie for their contributions to disability advocacy.
Parsonage Cottage Acquires New Van
Parsonage Cottage raised over $75,000 during a two-year fundraising campaign to replace their aging van with a 2023 Mercedes Sprinter Van designed for senior residents. Supply chain delays resulted in a waiting period during which alternative transportation was used. The new van arrived in October, allowing residents to participate in various outings, including voting, shopping, and visits to Mohegan Sun casino and Stew Leonard’s in Norwalk. Community contributions and support from organizations and businesses played a crucial role in the campaign’s success, and there are plans for more activities to promote unity among residents.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Students Launch Youth Non-Profit
Sameera Madan and Jacklyn Pizzella, students at Greenwich High School, established Leaders of the Next Generation, a non-profit organization focused on environmental awareness and improving youth education access. They provide free tutoring services, connect high school volunteers with younger students, and operate the Green Guardians program to encourage environmental consciousness through creative activities. They actively participate in community events and fundraising, with plans to gain non-profit status in Connecticut and expand their board. They welcome high school students to get involved, and collaborate on future initiatives, and have impacted over 200 individuals since August 2023, raising more than $600. You can stay updated by following them on Instagram and visiting their website.
Volunteers Pack 35,000 Meals
Around 200 volunteers met at Christ Church Greenwich on November 12 to pack 35,000 meals for those in need as part of an emergency international food relief effort. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds, including families with children, joined in. During a two-and-a-half-hour shift, teams of volunteers assembled, weighed, sealed, and boxed the meals for distribution. The event aimed to provide nutrition packages to people in dire circumstances.
SCHOOLS
GHS Students Embrace Symphony Orchestra
Greenwich High School’s band and orchestra students recently had a unique opportunity to participate in a rehearsal with the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra, providing them with an up-close experience of symphonic music. The students actively engaged with orchestra members, asking questions and learning about orchestral performance intricacies. They also had the privilege of meeting Stuart Malina, the renowned conductor. The Greenwich Symphony Orchestra is offering free tickets to its upcoming performances for all Greenwich High School students. Interested students can contact their music department teachers for details, offering young talents an inspiring chance to experience orchestral music.
GPS Hosts International Education Conference
Greenwich Public Schools will host an international education conference, researchED Greenwich, on April 6, 2024, at Greenwich High School. The conference will focus on the theme of “Unleashing the Science of Learning” and will bring together education researchers and authors from the United States and Europe. This marks a relatively rare occurrence of a U.S. public school system hosting researchED, and the event is expected to draw educators and academics from various regions. The conference will feature more than 20 speakers, including notable authors and educators. Dr. Michael-Joseph Mercanti-Anthony will serve as the event chair, and registration is open to all members of the education and Greenwich communities at a cost of $65 per person.
Mary Dolan Collette Named Riverside’s Interim AP
Dr. Toni Jones, Superintendent of Greenwich Public Schools, has appointed Ms. Mary Dolan Collette as interim assistant principal at Riverside School, effective January 2, succeeding Mr. Eugene Matejek, who now serves as a special education coordinator. Ms. Dolan Collette will support Principal Christopher Weiss in school objectives and student advocacy. She brings substantial education experience and has previously worked as an elementary program facilitator and summer school principal in Fairfield. Ms. Dolan Collette holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree.
Tree Removal at Western Middle School
Following a tree hearing held this past Thursday, 176 town-owned trees at Western Middle School are being tagged for removal and replacement due to contaminated soil. This development addresses the frustration of families who have been unable to use the school’s fields since 2016. Contractors have started the soil remediation project by tagging the trees. There have been previous conflicts over tree removal in school projects, with a focus on preserving trees for sustainability and complying with landscaping regulations.
Geothermal System Replacement Funding Approved
Dan Watson, the facilities director for Greenwich Public Schools, raised concerns about the existing geothermal system’s issues when addressing the Board of Estimate and Taxation budget committee. The Board of Education is seeking $3.2 million to replace the geothermal system at Hamilton Ave and is cautious about future geothermal use. Despite these challenges, geothermal systems are recognized for their energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions. Additionally, the BOE is exploring HVAC options for the new CMS building, including the potential for another geothermal system. The BET has approved the $3.2 million request, with the replacement of the Hamilton Avenue system scheduled for summer 2024. The Central Middle School Building Committee is considering geothermal as an option, taking into account its environmental benefits and cost advantages, as well as the possibility of state grant funding.
Hamilton Avenue School Seeks HVAC Reimbursement
Hamilton Avenue School is applying for state reimbursement to fund a new HVAC system. They are encountering a complex application process, similar to challenges faced by other districts in the past. The need for this project arose from the failure of the school’s geothermal system, leading to the use of temporary HVAC units and a request for $3.2 million in interim funding. The new HVAC system will include an air-cooled heat pump chiller array and modern components to enhance efficiency. Despite the complexities of the application process and possible reimbursement limitations, the district remains dedicated to enhancing the HVAC system for improved learning conditions.
SPORTS
Noah Park’s Three Touchdown Night
Greenwich High School sophomore Noah Park had a memorable night in a football game against Stamford, scoring three touchdowns to help his team secure a 47-21 victory in the CIAC Class LL Tournament quarterfinals. Park’s first touchdown early in the second half set the tone for Greenwich’s strong second-half performance. Senior quarterback Rocco Grillo had an impressive game, throwing for 348 yards and three touchdowns, while senior wide receiver Gavyn Gennarelli also played a key role in the offense. Greenwich’s defense improved in the second half, shutting out Stamford and advancing the defending Class LL state champions to the semifinals, where they would face West Haven.
Greenwich Cardinals Fall to Staples
In a Thanksgiving Day matchup between Greenwich High School and Staples at Cardinal Stadium, the Cardinals suffered their first loss of the season, falling to Staples with a score of 24-13. The game featured a competitive first half, with both teams embarking on time-consuming drives and points being hard to come by. Ultimately, Staples took control in the second half, scoring 17 consecutive points to secure a 24-13 victory over Greenwich.
GHS Girls Triumphs Again
Greenwich High School’s girls swimming team achieved a remarkable triple crown this season by winning the CIAC State Open Championships. With a total of 633 points, they secured the team title at the State Open Championships, adding to their victories at the CIAC Class LL Championships and the FCIAC finals. Senior Payton Foster played a significant role, winning both the 200-yard individual medley and the 500-yard freestyle. The team’s strong chemistry and dedication to their goals made this season a memorable success, culminating in a triumphant performance at the State Open Championships.
Sacred Heart Volleyball Makes History
The Sacred Heart Greenwich volleyball team achieved historic success by advancing to the semifinal round of the NEPSAC Class A Volleyball Tournament for the first time in the program’s history. They secured a spot in the championship match by defeating Phillips Exeter Academy with a decisive 3-0 victory. The team showcased a full team effort, with standout performances from players like Kaitlin Robinson, Grace Gapen, Emerson Eckert, Emilia Bernal, Cait Haggerty, Ana Pizzimbono, and Evangelyn Forte. This remarkable journey has made the season special, with Sacred Heart boasting an impressive overall record of 22-3 and looking forward to facing top-seeded Loomis Chaffee School in the final.
Sacred Heart Makes a Comeback
In a thrilling NEPSAC Class A Tournament quarterfinal-round match, Sacred Heart Greenwich and Greenwich Academy battled fiercely. Despite trailing 2-0 in sets, Sacred Heart rallied to win the last three sets, earning a historic victory and a spot in the NESPAC Class A Tournament semifinals. Sacred Heart coach Beth Wilson-Jordan praised both teams’ performance, emphasizing the resilience and teamwork that led to their comeback win. This achievement marks the highest New England finish for Sacred Heart as an A school, making it a memorable moment in the program’s history.
GHS Girls Dominate Swimming
Greenwich High School’s girls swimming/diving team secured their second championship of the season by winning the CIAC Class LL Championships with an impressive 925 team points. This victory marked their 22nd CIAC Class LL team championship and brought their total class championships to 30. Senior Payton Foster stood out with gold medals in the 200-yard freestyle and 500-yard freestyle, while the team also won the 200-yard medley relay and 200-yard freestyle relay events, setting their sights on the CIAC State Open title.
LOCAL POLITICS
Multi-Use Pathway Proposal Faces Vote
A 2.6-mile multi-use pathway proposal linking Stamford and Greenwich is pending a critical vote from the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) in Greenwich. The RTM will determine the allocation of $338,000 for the pathway’s design, intended to connect Binney Park in Old Greenwich with Boccuzzi Park in southwest Stamford. If approved, the Department of Public Works will hold a public hearing to gather input from the community. Concerns have been raised about potential project delays or abandonment in the event of funding rejection, with officials emphasizing the need for resident involvement. Preliminary estimates suggest the construction cost could range from nearly $4 million over 12 to 18 months.
OTHER NOTES
Honda Recalls Vehicles Over Seatbelts
Around 303,770 Honda Accord and HR-V vehicles are recalled due to seat belt concerns, impacting those manufactured from April 2022 to October 2023. The issue involves missing rivets in front seat belt pretensioners, potentially raising the injury risk in accidents. Despite the recall, no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, but seven warranty claims related to the faulty seat belts have arisen, with the first claim in May. Honda is urging affected vehicle owners to visit dealerships for free replacements, with notifications scheduled for early January to ensure everyone’s safety.
HMC Farms Issues Fruit Recall
HMC Farms, also known as HMC Group Marketing, has issued a product recall covering dates from May 1 to November 15, 2023, and the same period in 2022, due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria can cause severe infections, particularly in vulnerable groups. Symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle stiffness, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea, with pregnant women at higher risk. The recalled fruit was distributed nationally and sold in retail stores. It affects conventionally grown fruit, not organic, and excludes peaches, plums, and nectarines currently in stores. Consumers are advised to check their freezers for recalled fruit and contact the company’s consumer information desk for questions or concerns.
