POLICE & FIRE
Weinstock Officer of the Month
The Greenwich Police Department awarded Officer Joshua Weinstock the Officer of the Month for delivering a baby on an I-95 off-ramp in Greenwich. On July 19, Weinstock responded to a call where a woman in labor was experiencing contractions after her car hit a pothole, and he assisted in the delivery of a healthy baby boy. Both the mother and child were later taken to Greenwich Hospital for further care.
Traffic Enforcement Boost
Greenwich Public Schools began today, August 30th. Drivers are urged to follow speed limits, watch for children, and obey traffic laws, especially around school areas. The police aim to ensure safety and prevent accidents as traffic congestion rises with the new school year.
Fogler Joins CCFPP
Dennis Fogler has joined Cos Cob Fire Police Patrol, sworn in by Chief Brian Kelly. CCFPP is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has served Greenwich since 1927.
Steven Francefort Passes
Steven Francefort, former president of the Cos Cob Volunteer Fire Company, passed away on August 22 at age 69. He served with the company for 50 years, holding various leadership roles, including president, from 1988 until his passing. Francefort was also involved in farming and outdoor activities.
Avitable Memorial Service
The memorial service for Dave Avitable will be held on September 7th at 10:40 am. The service will be held at St. Timothy’s Chapel, 1034 North Street, in Greenwich.
Police Warn on Photo Sharing
As back-to-school photos are shared on social media, police warn that these images can reveal personal details about your child. This information can be exploited by predators and scammers. It’s advisable to limit the personal information you post online, regardless of privacy settings.
Retired Sergeant Daly Passes
The Greenwich Police Department announced the passing of retired Sergeant Richard Daly Jr., who served in both the Patrol and Detective Divisions and was promoted to Sergeant in 1998. He served in the U.S. Army before joining the police department. He earned several commendations during his 21-year career in Greenwich.
Six New Firefighters
The Greenwich Fire Department welcomed six new firefighters during the week of August 12th: Justin Bialecki, Kyle Gillick, Shawn Dunster, Kyle Everrett, Justin Bland, and Robert Depalma.
GFD Promotions
On the week of August 12th, the Greenwich Fire Department promoted Chris Froelich to Deputy Fire Marshal, and Brian Schwenk to Lieutenant.
Roth Promoted Greenwich
Robert Roth has been appointed as the new fire marshal for the Greenwich Fire Department, succeeding Chris Pratico, who retired after holding the position since 2017. Roth has 25 years of experience with the department, including five years in the fire marshal’s office.
Greenwich FD Faces Surge
Last Sunday, the Greenwich Fire Department responded to three tractor-trailer crashes on Interstate 95 and around 30 to 35 calls for service, including gas emergencies and storm-related flooding, due to heavy rain. Two drivers were rescued without injury, while one person was injured and taken to the hospital. The department’s call volume significantly exceeded their usual daily average.
Nickerson Honored for Decades of Service
The Glenville Volunteer Fire Company has awarded the David N. Theis Award for Outstanding Service to the Community to William H. “Bill” Nickerson for his nearly 40 years of service to Greenwich, including his roles in the Representative Town Meeting and as a state representative and senator. The award ceremony will take place on October 17 at Tamarack Country Club. The event is open to the public, and those interested in attending or contributing to the silent auction can contact the fire company.
FROM TOWN HALL
Proposed Sale of Aquarion
At the South Central Connecticut Regional Water District’s Representative Policy Board’s public hearing on August 22, the proposed sale of Aquarion Water Company was discussed. Fred Camillo underscored the importance of considering potential impacts on Greenwich customers, including possible rate changes and adjustments to the town’s taxable property revenue. The value of a thorough examination and ongoing dialogue before moving forward with the sale was highlighted.
Parks & Rec. Photo Contest Winners
The Greenwich Parks & Recreation Department announced the winners of its 4th annual photo contest. First place went to Gianluca DeBerardinis, second place to Andrew Cummings, and third place to Alex Popp. Their photos may be featured in future marketing materials and on social media.
Sue Snyder Retires
Recreation Superintendent Sue Snyder is retiring after years of service. She was instrumental in expanding programs, developing facilities, and supporting community events. Her work has left a lasting impact on the community.
Anonymous Messages Hinder Resolutions
First Selectman Fred Camillo would like to remind residents that anonymous messages hinder the office’s ability to address concerns effectively due to the lack of follow-up information. Providing contact details ensures better communication and quicker resolution of issues. Privacy will be respected, and names will not be made public.
Greenwich Celebrates ADA Anniversary, Veterans Honored
In the last week of July, town and state officials commemorated the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act at the Greenwich Avenue war memorial. The town emphasized its ongoing commitment to improving accessibility and announced plans to revitalize Veterans Plaza Park, including new lighting, a water fountain, and a statue of President George H.W. Bush. The project aims to honor veterans and enhance public spaces in Greenwich.
Greenwich Clarifies Gas Leaf Blower Ban Exceptions
Greenwich’s seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers is in effect, but the town’s noise ordinance allows their use for post-storm cleanup. First Selectman Fred Camillo clarified this exception in response to resident inquiries and reminded the public that any additional exemptions must be approved by the Board of Selectmen. The ban remains in place until September, with enforcement beginning next year.
Camillo Urges 911 for Emergencies Only
Fred Camillo reminds residents that 911 is for emergencies only and should not be used to report non-urgent issues like malfunctioning traffic lights. He advised using the Access Greenwich system for non-emergency concerns. This approach helps keep emergency lines open for situations that require immediate response.
YWCA Expansion Approved
The Planning & Zoning Commission approved a 15,020-square-foot expansion and renovation of the YWCA with a 4-1 vote. Commissioner Peter Levy, the sole dissenting vote, criticized the proposed design, particularly its treatment of the building’s Brutalist facade. The renovation aims to enhance the facility’s functionality and privacy, including the addition of a therapy roof garden.
OGS Expansion Approved
The Planning & Zoning Commission approved an 8,000-square-foot expansion at Old Greenwich School, which includes four new classrooms, a new entrance, improved accessibility, and additional recreational space. The $43 million project, expected to begin next year, has secured funding and will proceed in phases to minimize disruption. The renovations will also address flood prevention and add new landscaping to the site.
AROUND TOWN
Hawk Recovering from Rodenticide
A hawk found in Riverside was suffering from rodenticide poisoning and was treated at Wildlife in Crisis. The bird is expected to recover and be released back into the wild in about a month. The case underscores the dangers of rodenticides to wildlife.
Greenwich Considers Feral Cat Ordinance
On Thursday, Greenwich’s Board of Selectmen discussed creating a new ordinance to manage the feral cat problem in town. Current nuisance laws are deemed insufficient, and Town Attorney Barbara Schellenberg suggested a new ordinance could be drafted. The issue will be revisited in September after reviewing similar ordinances from other towns.
Cos Cob Intersection
Greenwich is considering adding a four-way stop at the intersection of Valley Road, River Road Extension, and Scofield Street in Cos Cob due to frequent accidents and speeding. A traffic study revealed significant vehicle volumes and safety concerns, prompting the Department of Public Works to recommend the installation of an all-way stop. The proposal is under review by the Board of Selectmen, with public input to be gathered before a decision is made.
Byram Beach Closed
Byram Beach has been closed indefinitely since the week of August 5th due to a broken sewer main that caused sewage contamination in the water. The Health Department confirmed the source of the contamination as a damaged sewer line from Bimbo Bakeries. Swimming will remain prohibited until repairs are completed and the water is deemed safe.
Tree Conservancy Adds 14 Trees
In response to urban heat and environmental concerns, the Greenwich Tree Conservancy has planted 14 trees in Byram’s William and Henry Street parking lots as part of their “Parking Parks” initiative. This project aims to reduce heat, manage water runoff, and enhance air quality. The trees are selected to endure harsh conditions and improve the visual integration of the parking lots with the surrounding area.
Moretti Field Upgrades 2025
The Moretti baseball field at Bible Street Park will be upgraded starting in spring 2025, including drainage improvements and reconfiguration. Construction will only affect the baseball field, with a safety fence in place and minimal disruption to the adjacent fields. The project has been publicly reviewed and approved, with ongoing updates and notifications for local property owners.
North Street Bridge Replacement
The North Street Bridge, built in 1909 and rebuilt in 1950, will be replaced starting spring 2025 due to its critical condition. The project will involve 18-24 months of construction with alternating one-way traffic controlled by a signal. A full road closure will not be implemented to maintain emergency access.
Leave Leaves for Healthier Soil
Leaving leaves in your yard helps insulate insects and improves soil health. Shredding leaves or using them in garden beds or compost can naturally fertilize your lawn. This approach supports better water retention and sustainability.
Cos Cob Affordable Housing Plan Paused
Greenwich Communities has determined that its plan to build 48 affordable housing units near the Cos Cob Train Station is not feasible due to the high cost of relocating a sewer line. The organization will seek alternative sites to continue efforts to meet state affordable housing requirements. The project was intended to help Greenwich comply with the 8-30g statute.
Greenwich Adult Education Fall Sessions
The Greenwich Adult & Continuing Education program’s fall session begins in early September, with registration available on September 3rd, 4th, and 5th at The Havemeyer Building. Courses offered include English as a Second Language, GED, and PSAT preparation, along with new classes in various subjects. Those interested in teaching can submit resumes and proposals to the program coordinator.
Greenwich Storm Causes Flooding
A severe storm last week caused significant flooding in Greenwich, leading to road closures and several truck accidents on Interstate 95. In Riverside, a creek overflowed, flooding Joseph Corrar’s backyard, while in Binney Park, the storm uprooted a 30-foot red maple tree. Emergency responders were stretched thin as they dealt with the aftermath of the storm.
Greenwich Station Elevator Repairs Delayed Again
The interior elevator at Greenwich’s central train station has been out of service for months, and the contractor responsible for its maintenance was terminated due to delayed repairs. A new vendor has been hired, but a timeline for the elevator’s repair has not yet been established. Meanwhile, another elevator at the station remains operational but requires a longer route for passengers.
Fall Skating, Hockey Programs Registration Opens
Registration for the fall skating school and youth hockey programs begins on September 1. The Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink in Byram will open for the 2024-25 season on September 7, with public skating starting on October 14. Detailed information is available in the 2024-25 online rink brochure.
OG Residents Propose Village District Overlay
A coalition of Old Greenwich residents has submitted a proposal to the town’s planning department to create a “village district overlay” for the commercial area along Sound Beach Avenue. The overlay would introduce a design review process to regulate new development and preserve the district’s traditional architectural style. The Planning & Zoning Commission is expected to review the proposal later this summer.
Town Hall Restoration Underway for Centennial
This summer, scaffolding was installed around Town Hall as part of a restoration project that includes cleaning and repainting the building ahead of its centennial celebration next year. The building, originally constructed in 1925, is receiving updates to its exterior, with the work expected to be completed by the end of October. The project was budgeted at $350,000, with current estimates suggesting a final cost of $275,000.
Greenwich Advocates Retaining Westchester Airport Traffic Cap
Westchester County Airport’s terminal use agreements with airlines are set to expire, prompting Greenwich and neighboring municipalities to advocate for retaining a cap that limits passenger traffic to 240 people per half-hour. This cap, essential to keeping the airport’s operations small, is being reviewed as part of the county’s ongoing airport master plan update. The final decision on the cap’s extension will be determined after Greenwich’s Representative Town Meeting on September 16.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Himes Visits Youth Conservation Program
U.S. Congressman Jim Himes visited the Greenwich Youth Conservation Program, where teens worked on planting trees and removing invasive species at Pemberwick Park. The GYCP, a summer program for 14-15-year-olds, offers conservation work and skills training. Since its inception in 1978, it has provided job experience to over 3,700 participants.
Edgehill Transformed into Garden
Residents at Edgehill, a retirement community, transformed a meadow into a pollinator garden to support bees and butterflies. The Grounds Committee removed invasive plants and planted native species, creating a habitat for local pollinators. The garden now attracts a variety of bees and butterflies, enhancing local biodiversity.
Lecture on Ulysses Banning
Greenwich Library will host a lecture on September 24 discussing the banning and unbanning of James Joyce’s “Ulysses” and its impact on American censorship laws. Jesse Meyers will present the lecture and will also lead a three-week series starting October 7 focused on Joyce’s works. Registration for the lecture is required through the Library’s online calendar.
Patsy’s Pizzeria Opens in Greenwich
Patsy’s Pizzeria has opened in Greenwich at 130 E. Putnam Ave. The restaurant, known for its New York-style thin-crust pizza, also offers a diverse menu that includes steaks, pasta, and Italian dishes. The restaurant is presently serving dinner starting at 4 pm, with future plans to extend its hours to offer lunch as well. More information available at https://patsyspizzeriagreenwich.com/
David Hayes Exhibit at Gallery
Sorokin Gallery will exhibit David Hayes’ sculptures and paintings from September 3 to 24. The opening reception will be held on September 7, with a talk by Hayes’ son on September 14. Hayes, a notable American Modern Master, is represented in major collections and has had extensive exhibition history.
Greenwich Celebrates Lafayette’s Bicentennial Visit
Last Monday, a gathering at Town Hall and the Greenwich Historical Society marked the bicentennial of Marquis de Lafayette’s 1824 visit to Greenwich, Connecticut. The event included the raising of the French flag and a proclamation honoring Lafayette’s contributions to the American and French Revolutions. A historic marker commemorating his visit to the town will be unveiled soon.
Undies Project Fundraiser
The Undies Project will hold its annual fundraising event, The Magic of Giving, October 19th from 7 to 10 pm at First Presbyterian Church in Stamford.
YMCA Aids Local Children
The YMCA helped over 100 local children with back-to-school shopping through programs such as Running Start. The initiative supports students’ academic readiness. Volunteers and donors are essential to sustaining these efforts.
Hawk Migration Count Begins
The hawk migration count at Quaker Ridge Hawk Watch has started, led by Jonathan Stein. On August 20th, there were, “10 migrating raptors including 5 Broad-Winged Hawks, 2 Osprey, 2 Sharp-Shinned Hawk and 1 Cooper’s Hawk [spotted],” according to the Greenwich Audubon Center. Raptor totals are available on hawkcount.org, and visitors can meet Stein at the hawk watch during weekdays.
Greenwich Hosts Annual Coastal Cleanup Day
Greenwich Green & Clean will hold its annual International Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, September 21, from 9 am to 1 pm at Greenwich Point Park. Volunteers will remove non-biodegradable trash from the shoreline, and the collected data will be reported to Save the Sound and the Ocean Conservancy. Pre-registration is available, with supplies provided on-site.
YMCA Fall Registration Open
The YMCA of Greenwich’s fall session runs from September 3rd to November 10th, offering programs for youth, teens, and adults. Some adult classes are included for YMCA members. Registration is now open, with more details available online at www.greenwichymca.org.
Save the Sound is organizing cleanup events along Connecticut’s coastline from August to October and is seeking volunteers. Cleanup efforts will take place at Byram Park and Binney Park on August 31 and at Greenwich Point on September 21. A full schedule for statewide events is available online.
Young Artists Philharmonic Auditions Begin September
The Young Artists Philharmonic will hold auditions for its 64th season on September 13, 20, and 29 at the First Congregational Church in Old Greenwich. Open to students in grades 5 through 12, the program includes regular rehearsals, three orchestras, a flute choir, and masterclasses with visiting artists. Selected students will perform in three concerts during the school year.
Greenwich Celebrates Lafayette’s Historic 1824 Visit
The Greenwich Historical Society hosted a public event on August 19th to commemorate the 1824 visit of Marquis de Lafayette, marking his contributions to the American Revolutionary War. This event, part of a nationwide farewell tour initiated by President James Monroe, included a reenactor, keynote speeches, and various exhibits. Lafayette’s visit to Greenwich was his first stop in Connecticut during this tour.
Greenwich’s Avity Investment Ranked 14th Nationally
Last month, the town of Greenwich recognized Avity Investment Management for ranking 14th nationally on CNBC’s 2023 Financial Advisor 100 list, with top placements in Connecticut and New England. This marks Avity’s fifth consecutive year on the list, rising from 29th place in 2022. The firm, founded in 1970, manages $1.7 billion in assets.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Ball Raises Funds
Quentin Ball from Greenwich raised over $1,000 for I Challenge Myself by participating in an Outdoor Challenge with 10 others. The event, organized by Climate Ride, involved various outdoor activities to raise awareness about climate change. Ball and her group included biking, running, and paddle boarding, while her husband joined by paddle boarding in Byram Harbor.
Greenwich’s Matt Moulson Launches Inspiring Children’s Book
Former NHL player and Greenwich Resident Matt Moulson has released a children’s book, “Matty Mo’s Grit Pile,” through Grit Pile Kidz to inspire resilience in young readers. The book, launched on August 20, details Moulson’s journey from youth hockey in Canada to the NHL, emphasizing the importance of perseverance through challenges. “Matty Mo’s Grit Pile” is available for purchase online.
Camillo Swears In New Parking Officers
Last week, First Selectman Fred Camillo swore in three new parking enforcement officers: Daniel Caruso, Brittany Perkins, and Eric Karl. They will be responsible for maintaining safe and accessible roadways and ensuring parking availability.
Teacher Belanger Releases Novel
Michael Belanger, a social studies teacher at Greenwich High School, will release his second novel, “Grimwell”, on September 2. The book, set in a fantasy world where books influence lives, follows a barista who discovers a novel that alters his reality. Belanger balances his teaching duties with a rigorous early morning writing schedule.
Man Survives Falling Onto Train Tracks
On August 10, a 25-year-old man fell onto the tracks at Cos Cob Metro-North Railroad Station. An arriving train passed over him without causing injury. He was transported to Stamford Hospital in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
Greenwich Teen Wins $10K Scholarship
Ashley Malkin, a 17-year-old from Greenwich, Connecticut, received a $10,000 scholarship from the 2024 Davidson Fellows Scholarship Program for developing a machine learning system to identify drug-gene interactions in the glymphatic system, which could aid in treating neurological disorders. Her project narrowed over 11,000 FDA-approved drugs to 273 potential candidates, potentially expediting drug development. Malkin is one of 20 students nationally recognized as a 2024 Davidson Fellow.
SCHOOLS
Cell Phones Banned for K-8
Cell phones and smart wearables are prohibited during the school day for students in grades K-8, with exceptions only for safety or medical needs, and must be kept off and stored away. High school students will follow a phased implementation plan beginning September 2024, with strict rules on phone usage during the school day, emphasizing responsible self-regulation. School-issued laptops are required for grades K-8, with any misuse of devices subject to disciplinary action according to the district’s code of conduct.
Students Protest New Phone Policy
Students at Greenwich High School are opposing new cell phone restrictions that require devices to be kept out of sight during open blocks, lunchtime, and instructional periods unless approved by staff. A petition against the policy, initiated by students, has gained significant support. The school administration plans to review the policy with input from a committee of students, staff, and families, with enforcement set to begin in January.
Left Turns Banned at GHS
The Greenwich Board of Selectmen has implemented a ban on left turns from Driveway No. 4 at Greenwich High School, effective immediately. This ordinance is a response to concerns about traffic congestion due to the simultaneous dismissal of all students following the removal of the flex block. The new rule directs all traffic to turn right toward Post Road, aiming to improve safety and traffic flow.
New Lebanon Garden
New Lebanon School’s garden is prepared for new student participation with recent updates completed by over 35 families. The garden, funded by a Greenwich Alliance for Education grant, supports the school’s curriculum and will feature vegetables like lettuce and carrots. An after-school program for grades K-3 ran for six weeks in the spring and will continue in the fall, though its future is not guaranteed. Donations are sought to support the program.
Assigned Parking for Seniors
Greenwich High School will assign parking spots to seniors with permits this year, with 261 spots available. Seniors with valid licenses are guaranteed parking for one semester, and a lottery will decide permit allocation. Junior parking permits will become available in mid-May.
Planned Speed Cameras
Chief Heavey announced plans for speed cameras near schools, following approval under Public Act 23-116. The Board of Selectmen reviewed the RFP in April, and a traffic study will select camera locations. The initiative aims to address speeding issues and will include fines for violations.
Left Turns Banned at GHS
The Greenwich Board of Selectmen has approved an ordinance prohibiting left turns from driveway No. 4 at Greenwich High School, effective immediately. This change is intended to address potential traffic congestion caused by the removal of the flex block, which will result in all 2,700 students being dismissed simultaneously. By mandating right turns toward Post Road, the ordinance aims to enhance traffic safety and redirect flow to Route 1.
Sacred Heart Externship
Over 70 Sacred Heart Greenwich students participated in a summer externship program at various companies, gaining hands-on experience. The school anticipates these students applying their new skills in the community this fall.
Greenwich High Vestibule Ceremony
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place September 3 at Greenwich High School to celebrate the completion of the school’s vestibule project. The event will begin at 10 am, featuring local officials and school administrators. The project aimed to enhance security, accessibility, and the entrance’s appearance.
New Students Prepare for School
Last week, 5th graders and new middle school students participated in the ‘Success at Sacred Heart’ program to help them transition into Sacred Heart Greenwich. The three-day program covered routines, skills, and community activities. This program aimed to prepare them for the new school year.
Greenwich Schools Begin 2024-25 Academic Year
Greenwich Public Schools began the 2024-25 academic year on Friday, August 30. Key dates include Labor Day on September 2, Thanksgiving recess from November 27-29, and the last day of school on June 23, 2025. Summer school will run from July 7 to August 15, 2025.
GCDS Hosts Children
The Greenwich Country Day School Center for Public Good partnered with Jewish Family Services for the second summer to host 33 children from conflict-affected countries at French Farm. The children, aged four to fourteen, participated in various activities with support from translators, GCDS students, and faculty.
Sacred Heart Joins Lourdes Pilgrimage
Sacred Heart Greenwich students from the Class of 2025, alumnae, and chaperones joined the annual pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. For over 35 years, students have traveled there to assist Pilgrims. During the ten-day trip, “students walked alongside these Pilgrims as they experienced the transformative power of Lourdes,” according to Sacred Heart of Greenwich.
Teacher Ostruzka Finalist for Award
Megan Ostruzka from Greenwich High School has been named a finalist for the Bill of Rights Institute’s National Civics Teacher of the Year Award. She is one of ten finalists chosen from across the country. The winner, who will receive a $5,000 prize, will be announced on September 17.
Greenwich High Soil Cleanup Progressing
Greenwich Public Schools updated on the ongoing soil remediation at Greenwich High School, stating that the baseball field should be ready by spring 2025, and the softball field’s contractor staging area will be restored by fall. Crews have removed approximately 15,800 tons of contaminated soil since June 2023. Additional remediation is planned for summer 2025, focusing on areas near the Performing Arts Center.
SPORTS
Brunswick Football Aims for 2024 Comeback
The Brunswick School football team, after a challenging 5-4 season in 2023, is determined to return to prominence in the Northeast Prep League. With a strong senior class and a focus on preparation, the Bruins aim to control their destiny in close games this year.
Brunswick, Greenwich Water Polo Stars
Several water polo athletes from Brunswick School and Greenwich High School were honored with High School All-America titles by the National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association for the 2023-2024 season, with standout players like Ryan Ohl earning First Team honors. Ohl, who will continue his career at Stanford, led a successful season for Brunswick, while other athletes such as Adam Blum, Leo DiLascia, Luke Mendelsohn, and Benjamin Atkinson also received All-America recognition for their contributions to their respective teams.
Greenwich Sailors Shine at C420 Championships
Mollie Wood, a rising senior at Greenwich High School, and Sydney Lombard finished 19th at the C420 Women’s North American Championship in California, showcasing strong and consistent performances. The duo also competed in the Mixed North American Championships, placing near the top 50, with Wood continuing her competitive streak at the 2024 C420 US National Championships.
Grace Wu Earns Third All-America Diving Title
Grace Wu, a 2024 Greenwich Academy graduate, earned NISCA High School All-America one-meter diving honors for the third consecutive year after winning the NEPSAC Division I diving championship with a record-breaking score of 533.25 points. Wu’s exceptional diving career at Greenwich Academy includes multiple championships and records, and she will continue her athletic career at Yale University.
GA Swim Team Shines
Greenwich Academy’s swimming and diving team had a standout season, capturing the FAA Championship title and placing second at the NEPSAC Division I Championships. The team’s 200-yard medley relay, featuring Alexandra Moore, Bryce Gold, Rory Keller, and Penelope Lazar, earned NISCA All-America honors with an impressive time of 1:44.45.
LOCAL POLITICS
Laudonia Against Hartford Control
Tod Laudonia, a Republican candidate for Connecticut’s 151st District, hosted a campaign fundraiser at the St. Lawrence Society in Cos Cob. He spoke against Hartford’s control over local zoning and education, emphasizing local governance. Laudonia will run on November 5th, with early voting beginning October 21st.
YWCA Roundtable
The YWCA Women’s Bureau’s Northeast Region co-hosted a roundtable at the Connecticut state Capitol. The discussion focused on gender-based violence, harassment, paid leave, and non-disclosure agreements. State officials attended and emphasized their commitment to strengthening protective policies.
FROM HARTFORD
Tong Opposes Health Insurance Rate
Attorney General William Tong has opposed the proposed 8.3% increase for individual health plans and 11.9% for small group plans by Anthem, ConnectiCare, and United/Oxford, arguing they are unjustified. Tong asserts that insurers have not adequately explained or supported these rate hikes and have not effectively managed rising medical costs. He calls for the Insurance Department to thoroughly review and potentially reduce the proposed increases.
ACROSS CT
International Day of Charity
On September 5th, the world recognizes the International Day of Charity, a day designated by the United Nations to celebrate the vital contributions of charitable organizations and individuals committed to humanitarian efforts. This observance urges communities everywhere to engage in acts of generosity and to support the essential work of charities that strive to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Lamont Declares Emergency
Governor Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency due to severe flooding in western Connecticut caused by heavy rainfall, which has led to significant infrastructure damage and numerous road closures. The emergency declaration aims to expedite resource allocation and federal aid for repairs. Residents are advised to avoid flooded roads while emergency management coordinates the response.
CT Dairy Farms Win Top Awards
Governor Ned Lamont congratulated four Connecticut dairy farms and cheesemakers for winning top awards at the 2024 American Cheese Society competition. This recognition reflects the state’s growing prominence in the food industry. The competition featured 1,596 entries from 228 producers.
OUR NEIGHBORS
Bristow Centennial
The New Canaan Land Trust and its partners are hosting a weekend of events on September 7th and 8th to celebrate bird conservation and the 100th anniversary of the Bristow Bird Sanctuary. The weekend will include speeches, musical performances, a statue unveiling, and various activities at the Bristow Bird Sanctuary. The event is free, and registration is encouraged. More information and tickets are available at https://newcanaanlandtrust.org/bristow-park-centennial/.
Stamford Student Wins Scholarship
Melissa Silva of Stamford has received the 2024 Scott Mitchell Scholarship from SoundWaters for her leadership and dedication to environmental issues. Her involvement with SoundWaters and various school activities led to this award. Silva will pursue animal science at the University of Connecticut this fall.
Wegmans Hiring for Norwalk
Wegmans Food Markets is hiring full-time employees for its upcoming store in Norwalk, set to open in summer 2025. The store will employ about 500 people, with applications available online or by phone at 203-299-3333. Part-time positions will be announced later.
