POLICE & FIRE
The Greenwich Police Department is hosting its annual self-defense seminar at the Greenwich Public Safety Complex. Taught by certified police officers, this course is designed to provide you with the skills and confidence to defend yourself in any situation, offering valuable preparation for incoming college freshmen. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself and prioritize your safety—register online at https://www.greenwichct.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2412
Master Police Officer Arenas, Detective Hall, and Officer Diaz represented the Greenwich Police Department at the law enforcement career fair held at Central Connecticut State University by CCSU Blue Devils. Students explored various career paths within the department, including roles like Forensics Detective and Emergency Service Unit Operator. The Greenwich Police Department will conduct an Entry-Level Police Officer exam in June, and interested individuals can stay informed about future tests by signing up for email alerts on the official government jobs website.
A motorist drove off Steamboat Road in Greenwich on Sunday morning, landing upside down on rocks at the water’s edge of Long Island Sound. Deputy Police Chief Mark Zuccerella said Greenwich police quickly responded to the call, finding an elderly driver who had veered off the road. Due to low tide, no water rescue was needed. A tow truck and crane were used to remove the Lexus with New York plates. The driver was taken to Stamford Hospital for an ankle injury. Police are investigating the incident.
A Mini Cooper narrowly avoided submersion in Binney Park’s pond after rolling toward the water’s edge. Greenwich Police were notified of the incident at 12:51 p.m. when the driver exited the car, causing it to veer into the pond, though no injuries were reported. Police investigated whether the car was left running or in gear when the driver exited, while a tow truck and the Greenwich Fire Department were called to remove the vehicle from the water’s edge.
FROM TOWN HALL
The Greenwich Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Fireside Chat With Fred breakfast at the Greenwich Water Club, featuring First Selectman Fred Camillo discussing town updates. Topics included flooding patterns, the current crime rate, and plans for renovating existing Town buildings. The event allowed attendees to directly engage with their Town leader, with special thanks to the Exclusive Sponsor, First County Bank, and SVP Richard Muskus for their support.
Greenwich Parks & Recreation Department has unveiled its 2024 summer concert series lineup at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park and Binney Park, featuring performances by various musical acts including Bob Button Orchestra, Chasing Romeo, Just Sixties, River of Dreams, and more. Attendees are advised that pets and grills are prohibited in the park, and weather updates can be accessed by calling 203-861-6100 after 4 p.m. Additionally, accommodations are available for those in need, with Commissioner Demetria Nelson reachable at 203-622-3800 or demetria.nelson@greenwichct.gov, ensuring an inclusive experience for all attendees.
AROUND TOWN
Greenwich celebrated the one-year anniversary of its sister city bond with Izyum, Ukraine, with a ceremony outside Town Hall attended by officials, locals, and Olga Litvinenko. Litvinenko, a key figure in establishing the partnership, expressed gratitude for the connection and highlighted its cultural and humanitarian significance. The event concluded with an announcement of a concert to support Ukraine, reinforcing Litvinenko’s call for continued support for the sister city relationship, which is Greenwich’s fourth.
Eversource and AJ Penna Construction plan to install electrical vaults at three locations on Greenwich Avenue, with sporadic nighttime closures expected from late spring to August. First Selectman Fred Camillo raised concerns about noise and storage, but Vento assured that equipment would be brought nightly from their New Canaan headquarters. Selectperson Janet Stone McGuigan suggested monthly progress updates, which Camillo supported to maintain a balance between progress and community concerns, with further discussions scheduled for the April 25 meeting.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Robert Wolterstorff, the CEO of the Bruce Museum since June 2019, will step down on June 30 after leading the expansion efforts. Under his leadership, the museum completed a $68 million campaign, constructed a 43,000 square foot addition, and acquired significant art collections. The Board of Trustees has initiated a transition plan, appointing an interim executive director from within while seeking a new CEO.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
The Make-A-Wish Foundation is honoring Luke by creating a climate change education exhibit at the Bruce Museum Seaside Center. Luke’s exhibit will focus on the impact of sea-level rise on marine life in Long Island Sound and promote awareness of actions to combat global warming. His goal was to inspire positive environmental changes in the community.
Monica Maccera Filppu has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County, starting on May 6. With almost thirty years of experience in education and non-profit leadership, she currently serves as the Executive Director of Common Ground High School, Urban Farm, and Environmental Education Center. Her background includes roles such as Project Director at The New Teacher Project and Founding Executive Director and Principal at Great Oaks Charter School of Bridgeport.
Tina Carpenteri’s daughter Willa, 5, had trouble sleeping in her room due to her leukemia diagnosis. Carpenteri collaborated with Circle of Care, a Connecticut-based non-profit, to renovate Willa’s room. Chloe Rabinowitz, a student from Greenwich High School, led the volunteers. The makeover included a castle mural, a new bed for Willa, and surprises for her brother Garrett. Rabinowitz expressed gratitude for the opportunity to help.
SCHOOLS
Group XII visited several companies, engaging with senior leaders, including GA alums and parents, during their insightful day. They appreciated the opportunity to learn and network, with GA’s Career Resource Center offering ongoing support and opportunities for all alums to explore.
Last week, Whitby students explored the American Revolution era with a visit from the Dragoons Regiment. As part of their 3rd-grade Conflict Resolution Unit, they learned about various aspects of the soldiers’ lives, including horse care, clothing, muskets, and espionage techniques.
Suzanne Coyne, previously an assistant principal, has been promoted to principal of Western Middle School, effective July 1, following her tenure as interim principal. Coyne, who has been with Greenwich Public Schools since 1997, held various roles before becoming assistant principal in 2014. Recognized as the 2023 Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year, Coyne expressed readiness to lead the school and gratitude for the opportunity.
Eduardo Calderón, currently principal at Cornerstone Academy for Social Action in the Bronx, has been appointed as the new principal of Julian Curtiss School in Greenwich. He succeeds Trish McGuire, who recently announced her retirement after serving as principal since 2009. With experience as principal at Wakefield School and assistant principal roles at several Bronx and Queens schools, Calderón brings a wealth of educational expertise to his new position and looks forward to collaborating with the Julian Curtiss community to maintain a supportive learning environment.
SPORTS
Kaitlyn Davis, a graduate of GA (Class of 2019), will join the New York Liberty after a successful NCAA Division I basketball career, including reaching the Elite Eight in this year’s March Madness tournament. She was selected as the 35th overall pick after earning honors like First-Team All-Ivy during her time at Columbia University and transferring to USC as a graduate. The community eagerly anticipates her return with pride and excitement.
Greenwich High School’s boys lacrosse team rebounded from a narrow loss to Wilton with a 13-11 victory over Horace Greeley, showcasing a strong offensive performance led by junior Mikey Brescia and senior Conrad Burki. Despite tight marking on Colin Zeller, the team’s offense thrived, and senior Lane Critchell’s dominance in faceoffs contributed to their success. They now focus on their upcoming noon matchup against FCIAC rival New Canaan on Thursday.
Greenwich High School’s boys tennis team maintained their undefeated record with wins against Wilton and Bridgeport Central, triumphing 5-2 and 7-0, respectively. Their strong showing in singles matches, particularly by Manuel Galli Specos and Matthew Hunt, along with their success in doubles play, reflects their overall dominance as they gear up to compete against New Canaan.
Brunswick School’s lacrosse team won a close 13-12 overtime match against Lawrenceville on April 10, with key contributions from senior Tucker Williams and senior attackman Payton Anderson. Their victory propelled Brunswick to the top spot in both the USA Lacrosse High School Boys National Top 25 poll and the Inside Lacrosse Top 25 National Rankings, setting the stage for their upcoming game against Taft School.
Brunswick School’s crew team kicked off their spring racing season at the St. Andrew’s Regatta, with their Varsity Eight boat clinching third place. Despite facing tough competition from top teams, the Bruins performed well, surpassing Central Catholic, Montclair, and a strong crew from St. Andrew’s, setting the stage for their upcoming race against Deerfield Academy.
Senior Tommy Passamano led Greenwich High School’s baseball team to an 8-3 road victory over Brien McMahon, going 3 for 4 at the plate with a home run and four RBIs, while also pitching six innings and allowing three runs. Despite the loss against Immaculate, John McHugh contributed with a home run and solid pitching, while the team looks to improve its 2-5 record in the upcoming home game against St. Joseph.
Greenwich High School’s boys volleyball team secured their first victory of the season with a 3-2 home win against Fairfield Ludlowe in an FCIAC match, winning the deciding game 15-9 after a back-and-forth contest. James Kovac led the Cardinals with 14 digs, 14 kills, and other contributions, supported by strong performances from Keito Fukushima, Logan Jaycox, and Santiago Romero, as they prepare to face Staples next.
Greenwich Academy’s Varsity A lacrosse team dominated with a 14-2 win over Greenwich Country Day in an FAA matchup, with ten players scoring goals.GA’s impressive victory continued with a 17-7 win against School of the Holy Child, improving their FAA record to 2-0 and their overall record to 3-2. Senior attack/captain Dylan Casazza and junior attack Eliza Babyak led the offense, while the team showed strength in both halves of the game.
Greenwich High School’s boys lacrosse team secured a 21-11 victory over Notre Dame-West Haven in their home opener, led by senior attack/captain Colin Zeller’s seven goals and Conrad Burki’s four goals. Despite a slow start for the Cardinals, they found their rhythm in the second quarter, dominating both defensively and offensively. Greenwich continued their strong performance throughout the game, with key contributions from various players, including senior defenseman/captain Cole Critchell and sophomore midfielder/defender Boden Farmer.
Greenwich High School’s softball team delivered a strong defensive performance against Westhill High School, with pitcher Sophia Blois allowing only one run and stellar fielding throughout the game. Despite Blois’s standout performance, the Cardinals suffered a tough 1-0 loss against an undefeated Westhill team, showcasing impressive defensive plays and pitching throughout the game.
Greenwich High School’s girls lacrosse team secured their second consecutive victory, defeating Stamford High School 14-6, with senior captain Emma Abbazia leading the scoring with seven goals. The Cardinals displayed strong teamwork and offensive prowess, with contributions from players like sophomore Dillon McFerran and junior Aubrey Roth, improving their record to 3-1 as they prepare for upcoming matches against Wilton and New Canaan.
Greenwich High School’s water polo team continued their winning streak with a 20-10 victory over Sacred Heart Greenwich, led by junior Sophia Ojjeh’s five goals, following a successful road trip to Chicago where they won all four games, including a 16-9 triumph over defending state champions Stevenson High School. The team’s cohesive play and individual contributions have propelled them to a perfect record, with sophomore Norah Mendelsohn standing out with 11 saves and four assists in the recent win.
Greenwich High School’s girls track and field team has started the season with a strong 2-0 record, showcasing depth and talent across both running and field events, with standout performances leading to a commanding victory over Stamford, 103-38. Despite some injuries, the team’s seniors and underclassmen have shown promise, setting personal records and aiming for strong performances in upcoming meets, with a focus on competitive showings at the FCIAC and state championship meets.
The YWCA Greenwich Dolphins clinched second place at the 2024 SunKissed Junior/Senior Invitational Championships of the USA with 2,340.50 points, narrowly trailing the Empire Swim team. Notable individual and relay victories contributed to their success, with standout performances from swimmers like Kate Boutry and Sydney Jee. Despite missing the top spot, the Dolphins’ performance underscored their dedication and talent in competitive swimming.
ACROSS CT
In Connecticut, two civil lawsuits are challenging the state’s legalization of cannabis on constitutional grounds, invoking the supremacy of federal law, which conflicts with state regulations that permit and regulate cannabis. The legal actions include Stamford residents suing over local zoning changes to allow cannabis sales, and allegations against a Hamden resident for operating illegal cannabis distribution events. Despite these challenges and the potential for federal enforcement, Connecticut’s legalization continues, highlighting the ongoing national conflict between state laws legalizing cannabis and unchanged federal prohibition.
This week, the Environmental Protection Agency issued new regulations requiring the removal of PFAS, known for their long-term stability in the environment, from public drinking water. These compounds, used in various products like nonstick cookware and fire retardants for over 70 years, are now widespread and associated with several health risks such as cancer and liver damage. The new rules demand that public water systems monitor for PFAS and, if detected, install filtration technology to limit the levels of PFOA and PFOS to four parts per trillion, the minimum detectable limit with current technology.
Over 100 witnesses observed a bright fireball in the sky over Connecticut and other Northeastern states on Saturday evening, as reported by NASA’s Meteor Watch Facebook page. NASA’s analysis revealed the fireball’s trajectory, which reached a speed of 38,000 miles per hour before disintegrating over New Jersey. The event was not linked to any ongoing meteor shower, and its occurrence adds to a recent series of celestial phenomena in the region, including a solar eclipse and another fireball sighting last Wednesday.
The streaming platform Netflix is searching for a 20-something man who is over 6 feet tall with brown hair, and a woman in her 50s with dirty blonde or light brown hair, for an upcoming documentary. Filming will occur over four days in New York City and one day in Cape Cod. The role is estimated to pay $3,300 for six days of work, according to the casting call.
Connecticut’s DEEP urges residents to prevent human-bear conflicts as bear activity rises post-winter. They stress removing birdfeeders, which attract bears due to their high-calorie content, increasing interactions with humans. With bear sightings across all towns and rising human-bear conflicts, DEEP warns of the dangers posed by bears habituated to human-related foods and provides guidelines on their website to minimize encounters.
OUR NEIGHBORS
The Loft Artist Association in Stamford has announced its spring/summer juried exhibition titled “Summer Abstracts,” with Elizabeth Tardif, founder of Cherry Street Art and exhibition manager at the Kershner Gallery in Fairfield, as the juror. Artists can submit their work by the May 17 deadline for the show, which will run from June 1 to June 30 at the Loft Gallery on 575 Pacific St., Stamford. The theme encourages artists to explore abstract elements of summer, focusing on color, shape, design, texture, and movement.
On April 1, at Trader Joe’s in Darien, Sgt. Dan Skoumbros detailed the first incident where a shopper’s wallet went missing, leading to fraudulent charges on her credit card at the Apple store in Norwalk and an attempted transaction at Nordstrom. A similar event happened on April 4 at the same store, with another woman’s wallet disappearing, resulting in a fraudulent charge alert from the Apple Store. Investigations into both cases are ongoing.
