POLICE & FIRE
Greenwich Police Connect Over Ice Cream
Over this past weekend, Greenwich police officers visited Cups n’ Cones. They served ice cream and spoke with residents. The event was held to encourage community interaction.
Greenwich Responders Strengthen Storm Preparedness
On Wednesday, Greenwich Police, Fire, Emergency Management, and Public Safety Dispatch officials attended the Weathering the Storm Summit at Mohegan Sun, which opened the 2025 EMS & Fire Expo. The summit, organized by Greenwich Emergency Management Director Joe Laucella, featured local, state, and federal leaders, including the National Weather Service. Sessions covered emergency response strategies, forecasting tools, communication of weather warnings, and resources for community safety.
FROM TOWN HALL
Hamill Rink Task Force Advances
The Hamill Rink Task Force will hold a public hearing on October 8, 2025, at 6:30pm in Room 105 at Greenwich Town Hall and via Zoom. The committee will provide an update on its work and outline next steps. Public comments, limited to three minutes, may be made in person or online.
Greenwich Opens Holiday Aid Applications
Greenwich Department of Human Services is accepting applications for holiday assistance programs. The Thanksgiving Aid deadline is October 31, 2025, and the Holiday Gift Program deadline is November 26, 2025, with Thanksgiving applicants automatically included in the gift program. Eligibility requires at least six months of residency, income within guidelines, assets under $3,000, and submission of proof of income, residency, and bank statements by contacting a case manager at 203-622-3800.
Greenwich Marks Constitution Week Celebration
From September 17 to 23, the United States observed Constitution Week, marking the anniversary of the Constitution’s signing in 1787. At Greenwich Town Hall, the Horseneck Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution organized a first-floor display highlighting the occasion. Greenwich Country Day School student Patrick McCann, a member of the Children of the American Revolution, visited Town Hall as part of the observance.
Leaf Blower Season Resumes
Seasonal restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers ended October 1. From that date, both gas and electric blowers were allowed from 8am to 6pm Monday through Friday, and from 9am to 3pm on Saturdays and holidays, with no commercial use permitted on Sundays. Gas-powered restrictions will resume May 22, 2026, while electric blowers remain permitted year-round during allowed hours.
AROUND TOWN
Greenwich Earns Dual Sustainability Honors
In 2024, Greenwich earned the Silver Award and the Climate Leader Award from Sustainable CT, a statewide program that supports municipal climate and equity initiatives. The town received these recognitions for meeting statewide benchmarks through projects and policies that reduce emissions, promote equity, improve resilience, and engage the community in environmental initiatives.
New Elm Honors John Conte
About fifty people gathered at First Church of Round Hill to dedicate a newly planted Valley Forge elm in memory of John R. Conte Jr., who died on April 22, 2025 while serving as president of the Greenwich Tree Conservancy. Conte, a licensed arborist and founder of Conte & Conte, contributed to public projects such as the redesign of Greenwich Common and served on multiple local boards and committees. The elm was planted where an older tree had been removed, and a plaque will mark it permanently in his honor.
Taco Project Seeks Railroad Space
The Greenwich Cigar Store at 91 Railroad Avenue, which operated for more than a century, closed this summer. The Taco Project, a regional fast-casual chain, has applied to convert the space into a restaurant and is seeking a zoning map change to eliminate onsite parking requirements. The Planning & Zoning Commission will review the application as the nearby $30 million train station redevelopment continues.
Blood Drive Supports Community Health
A blood drive will be held at Greenwich Reform Synagogue on October 6 from 1:30 to 6:30pm Appointments are encouraged, though walk-ins will be accepted if space permits. Donors will receive refreshments and a $10 amazon e-gift card.
Historic Human Remains Discovered in Greenwich
Human remains were uncovered on Sept. 18 at a construction site in northern Greenwich after soil was disturbed by an excavator. Police said the bones are believed to be several hundred years old, and they were transferred to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for testing. Authorities confirmed the remains are historic in nature, not recent.
Residents Seek Safety Improvements Mallard
Mallard Drive, a residential street near Greenwich High School, has become a heavily used cut-through where vehicles often travel at unsafe speeds. Residents have asked the Board of Selectmen to consider measures such as stop signs, speed cameras, and warning signs to improve safety. Town officials said updated traffic studies are required and any permanent changes must comply with state and federal traffic regulations.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Neighbor To Neighbor Launches Costume Drive
Neighbor to Neighbor is holding its first Halloween costume drive, collecting new and gently used costumes in sizes 0-12 along with accessories. Donations can be dropped off at the nonprofit during regular collection hours through October 18: Monday to Friday, 8am to 1pm, and Saturday, 8:30am to 12:30pm For more information, contact Sonya Keshwani at 203-622-9208 ext. 113 or skeshwani@ntngreenwich.org
Greenwich Library Launches Literacy Program
Greenwich Library has launched 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, a free early literacy program funded in memory of Margie Partland. The initiative encourages families to read 1,000 books with their children before kindergarten, tracking progress through milestones and earning small rewards. Registration is available online or at the library, and the program is open to all children from birth until kindergarten.
Nathaniel Witherell Welcomes Student Volunteers
Students 15 and older can volunteer at the Nathaniel Witherell senior nursing and rehabilitation center to fulfill service requirements. Volunteer opportunities include assisting with activities such as Wednesday Bingo games. Interested students should contact the director of volunteer services, Mary Tate at mary.tate@witherell.org to arrange shifts or projects.
Greenwich Hospital Auxiliary Marks 75th
Greenwich Hospital’s Auxiliary marked its 75th anniversary at its annual volunteer luncheon, recognizing 35,900 hours of service contributed in the past year. The Auxiliary presented a $650,000 donation to support pediatric services, funded by record sales of $1.4 million from its Thrift and Gift Shops. Volunteers with longterm service were honored, and the Healing Touch team received the Volunteer of the Year Award for providing more than 2,000 hours of patient care.
Walk And Run Support Survivors
The Walk the Walk & 5K Run Against Domestic Violence will take place Oct. 5 at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park, with checkin at 8:15am and the start at 9am A proclamation will be read declaring October Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. Proceeds support YWCA Greenwich programs, including counseling, shelter, court advocacy, crisis services, and a 24/7 hotline.
GEMS Hosts Annual Halloween Haunt
Greenwich Emergency Medical Service will hold its annual Halloween Haunt, where decorated ambulances with staff and volunteers deliver treats to children. The event takes place from 4 to 8pm on October 17, 18, 24, and 25, with online registration available at $15 per child. Proceeds support the purchase of new lifesaving equipment for GEMS.
Bear Fair Brings Community Together
This past weekend, the first Bear Fair was held at Coffee for Good, featuring Teddy Bear Story Time with Jenny on the Mead House lawn. Local organizations, including Greenwich Police, Emergency Services, Barbara’s House, River House, Greenwich Hospital, Nathaniel Witherell, and the Chamber of Commerce, participated alongside the Second Congregational Church. More than 100 children attended the event.
Bush-Holley House Begins Preservation Upgrades
The Bush-Holley House in Greenwich will close Oct. 1 for environmental upgrades and is scheduled to reopen in April to align with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. During the closure, the Greenwich Historical Society will present exhibitions on the Cos Cob art colony, including The Holley Boarding House: Inspiringamerican Impressionism and a companion show of works donated by Susan Larkin. Guided tours of the exhibitions and archives will be offered starting Oct. 8, and the Historical Society campus will be open free of charge from Oct. 1–5.
New Pollinator Garden Enhances Biodiversity
As part of Connecticut Sustainability Week, community groups planted a new pollinator garden at Binney Park. The project aims to support local biodiversity by providing habitat for pollinators. It was organized by Friends of Binney Park, the Greenwich Pollinator Pathway, and the town’s Parks and Recreation Department.
Greenwich Clubhouse Expansion Opens Strong
On September 30, the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich reopened the renovated Rebecca S. Breed Clubhouse. The 63,000-square-foot facility now includes new classrooms, a regulation gymnasium, a teen center, a café, and an amphitheater. More than 250 people attended the opening event, marking a major expansion in the Club’s 115-year history.
Greenwich Library Launches Sustainable Landscaping
Greenwich Library will begin a multi-phase landscaping project next year at its main building on West Putnam Avenue. The plan includes replacing decades-old plantings with native trees, shrubs, and grasses to improve sustainability, reduce water use, and increase biodiversity. Initial work will focus on the Dearfield Drive entrance, with later phases extending across the library grounds.
YWCA Greenwich Expansion Project Begins
On Friday, officials held a groundbreaking at YWCA Greenwich for a new 15,000-square-foot, two-story and basement addition to its headquarters on East Putnam Avenue. The project, part of the “Building for Our Future Campaign,” will also expand and modernize the community center. A $750,000 state bonding award will help fund the construction.
Community Joins Walk Supporting Research
The Marella family established Dana’s Angels Research Trust (DART) after their daughter was diagnosed with Niemann-Pick type C, a rare genetic disorder. The organization funds research that has helped their son and other children with the disease. On October 4, the community can support this work by participating in the annual DART to the Finish Charity Walk, which is open to all ages both in person and virtually.
Pumpkins And Pints Returns Saturday
Arch in Bloom will host its annual Pumpkins & Pints event on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 12 to 6pm The free event includes pumpkin painting, scavenger hunts, live music, food, beer samples from Greenwich Brewing Company, and Halloween-themed retail items. Seasonal displays feature a taxidermy hammerhead shark, pirate scene, and Beetlejuice characters.
Taylor Swift Celebration Supports Youth
The Arch Street Teen Center will host a Taylor Swift album release family concert on Saturday, October 4, from 2 to 4pm at 100 Arch Street in Greenwich. The event features a live tribute performance, with general admission and two VIP ticket options available, along with sponsorship opportunities. Proceeds will support the Teen Center’s programs for local youth and families.
Greenwich Turkey Trot Celebrates 15th
The Greenwich Alliance for Education will host its 15th Annual Turkey Trot on Saturday, November 29, 2025, beginning at the Arch Street Teen Center and running through Bruce Park. The event includes a 5K race, a 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, and a new Mini Trot for children ages 3-5. Proceeds benefit programs supporting Greenwich Public Schools.
Pianists Bring Music to Greenwich
A concert will be held at North Greenwich Church on Saturday, October 4 at 3:00pm featuring pianists Alla Zouborev and Olga Kalinina performing classical, modern, and jazz works. The event, part of the Round Hill Association’s “Neighbor Day,” will also include a crafts table by Hands of Hope, a local sewing cooperative offering handmade gifts.
Kaia Yoga Reopens Greenwich Studio
Kaia Yoga will host a grand re-opening of its Greenwich studio on October 16 from 5 to 8pm, beginning with a ribbon-cutting by First Selectman Fred Camillo. The event will feature a 60-minute Signature class with sound vibration healing, wellness activities such as henna tattoos and mini acupuncture, and refreshments from local vendors. Abilis will sell handcrafted bracelets, with proceeds supporting its programs.
Greenwich Hospital Earns National Recognition
Greenwich Hospital was named a top performer in the 2025 Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, Quality Leadership Study by Vizient, Inc. for the second year in a row. The hospital was one of 21 in the complex care medical center category, evaluated among 1,220 hospitals across six domains: safety, mortality, effectiveness, efficiency, patient-centeredness, and variation in care. The recognition covers performance from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Greenwich Student Earns National Honor
Ashley Taylor Malkin of Greenwich High School has been named a 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholar, one of the nation’s highest honors for graduating seniors. She was selected by the U.S. Department of Education from a national pool of students recognized for academics, arts, technical skills, leadership, and community service.
SCHOOLS
Greenwich Board Approves 2026/27 Calendar
The Greenwich Board of Education approved the 2026–27 school calendar, moving spring break to April after survey feedback from parents and staff. The board also discussed the possibility of adding holidays such as Diwali and the Lunar New Year, noting that Diwali falls on a Sunday in 2026. The revised calendar passed 6-0 with adjustments to parent conference dates and scheduling considerations for construction projects.
Greenwich Schools Advancing Bus Solutions
Greenwich Public Schools confirmed that school buses are temporarily parked at Western Middle School after an offsite location fell through. District officials said buses are also stationed at other sites, and a real estate professional is working to secure a permanent lot. Parking is limited to paved areas and one designated grass surface, with precautions in place to protect fields and underground infrastructure.
Greenwich Alliance Expands Student Opportunities
The Greenwich Alliance for Education prepared AVID graduates for college through its Transition to College program, offering workshops on budgeting, substance awareness, and time management. This fall, 60 Greenwich High School AVID alumni received $83,000 in scholarships, bringing the program’s total awards to $1.1 million. Additional initiatives include funding for classroom innovation, equity-focused programs, and free private music lessons for eligible students.
Rajsi Choudhary Advances in STEM
The Society for Science announced the 30 finalists for the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge, a national middle school STEM competition. Rajsi Choudhary was selected for her project developing a biodegradable, nutrient-rich hydrogel from orange peel to maintain soil moisture. Finalists will compete in Washington, D.C., at the end of October, where judges will evaluate their research, communication, creativity, and teamwork.
Dundee School Celebrates Anniversary Milestone
The International School at Dundee hosted its annual Ice Cream Social and Movie Night, featuring Lilo & Stitch. More than 500 attendees enjoyed 20 gallons of ice cream served by teachers, staff, and alumni, along with activities such as a photo booth and appearances by the school mascot. The event also marked the start of the school’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
Greenwich Firefighters Teach Students
Whitby School’s first and second graders received a visit from the Greenwich Fire Department. Students explored the firetruck, learned about firefighting equipment, and practiced using the hose. The visit introduced them to fire safety in a hands-on way.
Greenwich Schools Launch Difference Makers 2.0
Greenwich Public Schools introduced “Difference Makers 2.0” for the 2025–26 school year. The program selects one employee from each school and district department monthly for their impact, based on nominations from principals and senior leadership. Nineteen staff members were recognized as the first honorees in October 2025.
Greenwich High School Introduces AI
Greenwich High School has introduced two artificial intelligence platforms, SchoolAI and Khanmigo, in partnership with the Greenwich Alliance for Education. The tools are intended to personalize learning, provide teachers with progress-monitoring resources, and support student practice for assessments. The project is funded through a Reaching Out Grant from the Alliance.
Sacred Heart Seniors Commissioned Joyfully
During the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit at Sacred Heart Greenwich, Bishop Frank J. Caggiano commissioned 24 seniors from the Class of 2026 as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. The commissioning coincided with the school’s theme for the year, Lead with Heart, Act with Purpose, and the 100th anniversary of Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat’s canonization. The newly appointed ministers are listed by name.
Susan Casey Engages Brunswick Students
Author Susan Casey, whose books The Devil’s Teeth and The Wave were selected for this year’s Brunswick Trust Summer Reads, spoke to the Upper School about her research on great white sharks and large ocean waves. Laird Hamilton appeared virtually during the session. Casey later visited an Environmental Science & Sustainability class to discuss her research in more detail.
Greenwich Central Middle School Progresses
Greenwich Public Schools reported progress on the new Central Middle School, a two-phase, 21-acre project. In September, crews completed most steel work, advanced roofing, framing, and utility installations, and began interior mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. October plans include window and barrier installation, roofing completion, continued interior and utility work, and further slab and underground system placement.
Central Middle School Strengthens Student Safety
Central Middle School announced that beginning Wednesday, October 1, e-bikes and e-scooters will no longer be permitted on campus due to changes in Connecticut law. The new rules require a license for any e-bike or e-scooter capable of speeds over 20 miles per hour, with larger models subject to registration and insurance requirements. Violations may result in police confiscation and juvenile court summons.
SPORTS
Greenwich Academy Field Hockey Shines
Greenwich Academy’s varsity field hockey team has opened the 2025 season with a 4-0 record, including a 6-0 win over Hopkins School, continuing its long tradition of competing for FAA and NEPSAC titles. Led by senior captains Mallory Walker and Georgia Schmitz, the Gators are blending returning veterans with many first-year varsity athletes while showing depth and versatility across positions. After finishing 16-3-2 last year and reaching the NEPSAC semifinals, GA is once again positioning itself as one of the premier programs in the region.
Greenwich Dominates Notre Dame 38-7
Greenwich High School’s varsity football team improved to 3-0 with a 38-7 road win over Notre Dame-West Haven. Senior running back Hector Lopez rushed for 164 yards and two touchdowns, while Jack Kelly added two scores and Santi Parra returned an interception for a touchdown. The Cardinals’ defense limited Notre Dame-West Haven to just 80 total yards.
Greenwich Volleyball Extends Perfect Streak
Greenwich High School’s varsity girls volleyball team improved to 9-0 with straight-set wins over New Canaan and Bridgeport Central. Kayah Armstrong led the way against New Canaan with 22 kills, while Victoria Sullivan added 38 assists and strong all-around play. In the Bridgeport Central match, Zeeyah Jacobsen tallied 10 assists and five aces as the Cardinals secured another sweep
Greenwich Academy Secures Rivalry Victory
Greenwich Academy edged Sacred Heart Greenwich, 2-1, in their FAA varsity soccer rivalry game on Sept. 25, 2025. Junior Maia Bostwick scored the decisive header late in the second half, while sophomore goalie Lavely Corbin secured the win with key saves in the final minutes. The Gators improved to 5-0-1 in the FAA, continuing the tradition of one-goal contests between the two rivals.
Greenwich Boys Soccer Remains Undefeated
Greenwich High School’s varsity boys soccer team remains undefeated at 8-0 in the 2025 season, continuing a winning streak that has lasted over a year and a half. In their latest game, Greenwich defeated Danbury 2-0 behind two goals from senior captain Manuel Bonilla, demonstrating strong teamwork and possession dominance. Despite losing more than 20 seniors from last season, the team has maintained top performance, outscoring opponents 38-5 and recording five shutouts in eight games.
LOCAL POLITICS
Greenwich Candidates Continue Debate Series
The League of Women Voters hosted the first Greenwich debates on September 29, with Selectwoman candidates at 7pm and First Selectman candidates at 8pm; the event was broadcast on GCTV. A second debate, organized by the Round Hill Association, is scheduled for October 7 at 7pm following a 6:30pm public reception. Early voting begins October 20.
Greenwich Candidates Debate Key Issues
Four candidates participated in the season’s first municipal debates in Greenwich, organized by the League of Women Voters. Incumbents Fred Camillo and Lauren Rabin faced challengers Anthony Moor and Rachel Khanna, discussing topics including school funding, traffic, housing mandates, infrastructure needs, and the future of the Havemeyer building. The debates were held before a full audience at Town Hall and broadcast online.
FROM HARTFORD
States Unite To Challenge Zillow
Connecticut and four other states, along with the Federal Trade Commission, filed a lawsuit against Zillow and Redfin over a $100 million agreement that they argue illegally reduces competition in the rental listing market. The deal requires Redfin to exit the multifamily rental advertising business, make Zillow its exclusive provider for listings, and refrain from competing for up to nine years. The complaint alleges this violates federal antitrust laws and could lead to higher rental costs and reduced service quality.
