POLICE & FIRE
NCIS Honors Detective Beattie for Innovation
On October 17, 2024, Special Agent Kris Peterson of NCIS presented Detective Ryan Beattie with a commendation for his effective use of federal intelligence databases in criminal investigations. His work has demonstrated the role of collaboration and innovation in law enforcement. NCIS continues to recognize detectives nationwide for their use of these resources.
Sgt. Ruszkowski Celebrates 20 Years Service
Sergeant Ruszkowski has completed 20 years of service with the Greenwich Police Department. In his role, he helps communicate the department’s values and standards to the officers he supervises. His position plays a key part in maintaining the department’s culture and structure.
FROM TOWN HALL
North Street Bridge Project Timeline Adjusted
The North Street Bridge project timeline has been adjusted based on community input, with a revised schedule aiming for completion in 10 months. The Department of Public Works is in discussions with the contractor to explore ways to further shorten the timeline. A recording of the meeting is available online for those who missed it.
Leaf Collection Program Begins Nov. 12
The town’s annual leaf collection program will begin on November 12, with pickups occurring Monday through Saturday, aiming to finish by mid-December, weather permitting. The program serves residential properties of half an acre or less, with two pickups per section. Residents should rake leaves near the curb but avoid placing them on roads, sidewalks, or drainage areas, and only biodegradable paper bags will be accepted for collection.
Ceremony Marks 249th U.S. Navy Anniversary
A ceremony was held last Friday to mark the 249th anniversary of the U.S. Navy, featuring a flag-raising and proclamation. Plans are in place for larger future gatherings, with upcoming events for the U.S. Marine Corps in November and the U.S. National Guard in December. Further details on these events will be announced.
AROUND TOWN
Teens Organize Team Hope Walk
Greenwich High School students Mia Lin and Benjamin Zackson are organizing a “Team Hope Walk” on November 2 at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport to raise funds for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. Huntington’s disease is a genetic disorder that causes progressive nerve cell breakdown, with no cure available. Participants in the walk will receive a T-shirt, and proceeds will support research for the disease.
Interfaith Blood Drive Set for Nov. 2
An Interfaith Blood Drive will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greenwich from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Donors of all blood types are needed due to shortages caused by Hurricane Helene. Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org using code FPCG or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Town Earns Climate Leader Designation
Greenwich has earned the Sustainable CT Climate Leader Designation and Silver-Level Certification for its progress in 13 impact areas related to sustainability. This recognition highlights the town’s efforts in addressing environmental challenges. The town plans to continue pursuing further improvements in climate action.
Coyote Sightings Continue
Coyote sightings in the Town continue to be reported. Residents should call 911 for emergencies and contact Animal Control at 203-622-8299 if a coyote appears sick or injured. Non-emergency sightings can be reported to the Greenwich Conservation Commission at 203-622-6461.
$450K for Pedestrian Safety Upgrades
On Tuesday, State Representatives announced $450,000 in funding for safety improvements at the Route 1 pedestrian crossing near Byram and Pemberwick Roads. The funds, approved by the State Bond Commission, will be used by the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the Town of Greenwich for upgrades in the high-traffic area. The project aims to enhance pedestrian safety in the vicinity of local schools, parks, and transit stops.
Car Rear-Ends School Bus
On Monday, October 21st, around 9:00 a.m., a car rear-ended a school bus on King Street. The driver of the car did not notice the bus had stopped, causing the collision.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
On October 22, Greenwich celebrated National Disability Employment Awareness Month at Coffee For Good, a nonprofit that provides job training for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. First Selectman Fred Camillo issued a proclamation encouraging the community to support efforts that increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Teen Cyclist Injured in Collision
A 14-year-old boy on a bicycle collided with a vehicle near Hillside Road and Fairfield Avenue in Greenwich on Tuesday morning, leading to a road closure for two hours. The boy, not wearing a helmet, struck his head on the vehicle’s windshield and was taken to Stamford Hospital. The driver remained at the scene, and no charges have been filed as the investigation continues.
$30M Greenwich Plaza Redevelopment Begins
The Ashforth Company has begun a $30 million redevelopment project, Greenwich Crossing, to revitalize Greenwich Plaza with new infrastructure and public spaces. The first phase includes a 5,000-square-foot restaurant and a redesign of the train station, along with modernized retail and improved pedestrian access. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025.
Wrong-Way Detection Systems Installed
Connecticut is installing two wrong-way detection systems at Interstate 95 northbound Exit 5 in Riverside and Merritt Parkway southbound Exit 31 on North Street in Greenwich to alert State Police and drivers when vehicles are headed in the wrong direction. These systems use video cameras and flashing signs to warn drivers and notify authorities. The installations are part of a state program aimed at reducing wrong-way crashes, often linked to alcohol-impaired driving.
Proposal for Animal Hospital Under Review
A proposal to convert a vacant office building at 5 Western Junior Highway into an animal hospital, including specialized pet eye surgery, is under review by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Concerns have been raised about limited parking and the impact on the town’s sewer system, with further analysis requested. The facility would house the Hospital for Veterinary Surgery and the Veterinary Eye Center, offering scheduled outpatient services.
Lobster Dock Removal Progresses
Over a year after the state ordered the removal of un-permitted lobster docks from the Mianus River, some docks and debris remain. Significant progress has been made since June 2023, with most of the structures cleared, but a small portion is still in place. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection continues to monitor the situation to ensure full removal.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
LDAC Hosts Tour at Greenwich Lumber
On October 10, 2024, the Lumber Dealers Association of Connecticut (LDAC) hosted a yard tour at Interstate + Lakeland Lumber’s Greenwich facility. State legislators attended to learn about the lumber and building materials (LBM) industry. The event focused on the industry’s role in the local economy.
Oral History Project Day at Greenwich Library
The Greenwich Library is holding an Oral History Project Day on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., where participants can record their stories in 30-minute sessions. The Oral History Project collects and preserves accounts of Greenwich history from the 1890s onward. The project is marking its 50th anniversary in 2024. Register at https://greenwichlibrary.libcal.com/event/12105091
Audubon Launches Sustainable Landscape Program
The Greenwich Audubon Center is launching HELP: Habitat and Ecosystems Landscape Pro, a program for landscape professionals to learn sustainable techniques for creating ecological landscapes. The program includes two virtual sessions on November 7 and 14, 2024, and an in-person workshop on November 21. For more information or to register, contact Josey Gardner at josey.gardner@audubon.org.
Grigg Street Pizza, Bar Rosina Nominated for Awards
Grigg Street Pizza and Bar Rosina have been nominated for the 2024 Connecticut Restaurant Association Awards. Bar Rosina is up for Restaurant of the Year, and Grigg Street Pizza is in the running for the People’s Choice Award. Supporters can vote online to help these Greenwich restaurants win.
Hyatt Regency Unveils $40M Renovation
On October 17, 2024, the Hyatt Regency Greenwich and Trinity Investments celebrated the completion of a $40 million renovation with an event featuring tours of the updated facilities and food from the new Townsend garden bar. The hotel, located in Old Greenwich, now offers 374 renovated guest rooms, updated meeting spaces, and new dining options. The property combines modern amenities with elements of its historical past as the former home of Conde Nast Publishing.
Rotary Club Hosts “Flags for Veterans” Event
The Greenwich Rotary Club will hold its inaugural “Flags for Veterans” event on November 6, 2024, at Greenwich Town Hall to honor veterans and raise funds for American Legion Post 29. Community members can sponsor flags for $75, with proceeds supporting local veterans. A check from the event will be presented to the commander of Post 29 during the ceremony.
Great Pumpkin Rescue Returns November 16
Waste Free Greenwich will host its third annual Great Pumpkin Rescue on November 16 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Living Hope Community Church in Old Greenwich. The event will collect pumpkins for composting and include games and a compost demonstration. Only pumpkins, jack-o-lanterns, and gourds without decorations or other non-organic materials will be accepted.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Jill Blomberg Honored with 2024 Purple Ribbon Award
Jill Blomberg was honored with the 2024 Purple Ribbon Award at YWCA Greenwich’s Annual Candlelight Vigil. The award recognized her contributions to supporting domestic violence survivors, particularly her work with YWCA’s Harmony Project since 2018. Blomberg focused on addressing how the legal system was misused by abusers to exert control over survivors.
Carolyn Smith Joins Animal Control Division
Carolyn Smith completed the Animal Control Academy and her probationary period. She now works in the Animal Control Division, which enforces local pet regulations. The division also facilitates cat and dog adoptions, with more details available on their website.
Violinist Hristova to Perform
On November 23 and 24, violinist Bella Hristova will perform with the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra. Hristova has received several prestigious awards, including the Avery Fisher Career Grant and first prize in the Michael Hill International Violin Competition. She has performed with orchestras across the United States, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
SCHOOLS
Rob Waller Tours USS George Washington
Rob Waller, chair of the Middle School history department at Greenwich Country Day School, recently participated in the U.S. Navy Distinguished Visitors Program, where he toured the USS George Washington, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. He observed nighttime flight operations, met with the ship’s captain, and discussed the overlap between naval responsibilities and GCDS values. Waller also learned about the parallels between military service and the principles of diversity, service, and leadership at GCDS.
Sacred Heart Hosts Talk on Tech’s Impact on Teens
Sacred Heart Greenwich hosted an event featuring alumna Dr. Jacqueline Nesi, a Clinical Psychologist and Assistant Professor at Brown University, who discussed the effects of social media and smartphone use on adolescent mental health. Dr. Nesi provided evidence-based strategies for managing technology use at home. The event also included a panel discussion with Dr. Melissa Otero and Dr. Lisa Schwartz, followed by a Q&A session.
GPS Launches “Difference Maker” Award
Greenwich Public Schools has introduced the “Difference Maker” award to recognize staff members who have significantly impacted the school community. The award is given monthly to full or part-time employees from the district’s schools and offices, based on nominations from students, families, staff, or community members. Eligible nominees must be in good standing, and the award excludes contractors and employees of other town agencies.
Bake Sale to Support GHS Science Program
On Saturday, October 26, a bake sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Town Hall during early voting. Proceeds will benefit Greenwich High School’s Honors Science Research program, which is not fully funded by the school’s budget. The sale aims to support this program led by teacher Andrew Bramante.
GHS Theater Presents Twelfth Night
The GHS Theater Arts Department will present six performances of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, a comedy about love and mistaken identity. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online or at the Blackbox Theater. Showtimes are October 31 at 4:00 p.m., November 1 at 7:30 p.m., and November 2 at 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
SPORTS
Sacred Heart Field Hockey Heads to Postseason
With a 12-2 record, Sacred Heart Greenwich field hockey is heading into the postseason after securing two recent victories over Millbrook School (6-0) and Greens Farms Academy (3-2). The Tigers will face Westminster School and St. Luke’s School to conclude their regular season before the FAA Tournament begins.
Brunswick Crew Wins Head of the Charles
Brunswick School’s crew team made history by winning the Men’s Youth Fours race at the 2024 Head of the Charles Regatta, marking the first time the school has claimed victory in the event. Their crew, led by coxswain James Koester, finished the race in 16:43.779, becoming the first American school to win the event since 1979.
Brunswick Football Wins 42-7 on Homecoming
Brunswick School’s football team overcame an early deficit to defeat Phillips Academy Andover 42-7 on Homecoming Day, maintaining their perfect season. Senior quarterback Blake Hebert led the offense with two rushing touchdowns and a passing score, while the defense shut down Andover after the first quarter, securing the Bruins’ 6-0 record.
GHS Girls Swim Team Wins on Senior Day
Greenwich High School’s girls swimming and diving team celebrated Senior Day with a 101-70 victory over Staples, capping an impressive regular season. The defending champions dominated across events and are poised for the upcoming FCIAC Swimming Championships, which begin on Oct. 29.
Wilton Upsets Undefeated Greenwich 20-17
Wilton upset previously undefeated Greenwich 20-17 with a key 13-point surge late in the second quarter and a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. The win marked Wilton’s first victory over Greenwich since 2008, dropping the Cardinals’ record to 4-1 as they prepare to face Trumbull.
GHS Volleyball Wins 10th Straight Game
Greenwich High School’s volleyball team extended their winning streak to 10 matches with a 3-0 sweep of Westhill, improving their record to 17-1. Key players included Sarah Bernann with 32 assists and Joy Houdre with 17 digs, leading the Cardinals to victory as they approach the end of the regular season.
Brunswick Football Stays Undefeated at 5-0
Brunswick School’s football team is undefeated at 5-0, consistently scoring 30 or more points in each of their victories. The Bruins recently secured wins over Avon Old Farms and Suffield Academy, heading into their Homecoming game against Phillips Andover Academy.
GCDS Volleyball Tops Sacred Heart
Greenwich Country Day School’s volleyball team improved to 10-2 overall and 5-2 in the FAA after a 3-0 victory over Sacred Heart Greenwich, continuing their strong 2024 season. Led by standout performances from junior outside hitters Cara Lehmitz and Grace Gapen, GCDS maintained momentum throughout the match and showcased their defensive strength.
SH Field Hockey Beats GA 3-1
Sacred Heart Greenwich defeated Greenwich Academy 3-1 in an intense field hockey rivalry, handing GA its first loss of the season. Sacred Heart’s three first-half goals secured the win, propelling them to the top of the FAA standings with a 5-0 record.
LOCAL POLITICS
Paul Cappiali Appointed to BOE
During a special meeting, the Board of Selectmen discussed filling a Board of Education vacancy and appointed Paul Cappiali to the position. First Selectman Fred Camillo nominated Cappiali.
Early Voting Open
Early voting at Greenwich Town Hall began Monday morning, and by 10:30 a.m., the first floor was filled with voters. Governor Ned Lamont visited and observed the high turnout, noting the strong interest in early voting. This marks Connecticut’s first general election with early voting, which will continue through November 3.
FROM HARTFORD
CT Allocates $28M for Broadband Expansion
Connecticut has allocated $28 million from its ConneCTed Communities Grant Program to expand broadband access in 88 towns and cities, including 26 distressed municipalities. The funding comes from federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars and will support infrastructure development to improve internet connectivity. A second round of funding is underway, with an additional $12.8 million available to further extend broadband access.
CT Approves $30M for State Park Repairs
Governor Ned Lamont announced that the State Bond Commission approved $30 million for repairs and upgrades across Connecticut State Parks, including $3 million for parks affected by the August 18, 2024, flash floods. This funding is part of the *Restore CT State Parks* initiative, which addresses maintenance backlogs across the state’s parks and forests. Since 2022, over $70 million has been invested in improving outdoor recreational areas in Connecticut.
CT Approves $40M for First-Time Homebuyer Aid
Governor Ned Lamont announced that the State Bond Commission approved $40 million to reopen the Time To Own program, which provides down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers in Connecticut. The program, managed by the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, has supported over 4,800 homebuyers since its launch in 2022. This new funding brings the state’s total investment in the program to $195 million.
CT Joins Coalition Against NC Abortion Pill Restrictions
CT Fights NC Abortion Pill Limits
Attorney General William Tong announced Connecticut has joined a coalition of 17 states and the District of Columbia in filing an amicus brief in *Bryant v. Stein*, challenging North Carolina’s restrictions on the abortion medication mifepristone. The brief supports a federal court decision that North Carolina cannot impose additional restrictions on mifepristone beyond those set by the FDA. The coalition argues these state-level restrictions are unnecessary for patient safety and contradict federal regulations.
OUR NEIGHBORS
Mayoral Election at Beardsley Zoo
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is hosting a Mayoral election with six animal candidates. Votes, costing $1 each, can be cast up to and on November 6th to support the zoo’s conservation efforts. Voting details are available at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/2025ZooMayor
