June 12, 2020 by Greenwich Sentinel

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June 12, 2020

The Greenwich Weekly Newspaper, where we celebrate our hometown. Exclusively Greenwich news and events.

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Flag Day June 14 By Zilana Lee N a t i o n a l F l a g D a y, a precursor to the Fourth of Ju ly, com memorate s t he adoption of the American flag on June 14, 1777 by the Second Continental Congress. This day was first recognized as a holiday in 1877, and since then many towns have held parades and flown the flag to honor the symbolic stars and stripes.

Eversource to Install Utility/ Pedestrian Bridge in Bruce Park As part of the Greenwich Substation and Line Project, Eversource w ill begin installing a utility/pedestrian bridge over Davis Mill Pond which will carry a new 115-k ilovolt (kV ) electric transmission line, an 8-inch water main, a temporary 4-inch gas main and pedestrians enjoying Bruce Park. This work is part of the underground portion of the project, which also includes installing a transmission line beneath approximately two miles of local streets connecting a new substation o n R a i l r o a d Av e n u e t o Eversource’s existing Cos Cob Substation. A road closure and associated detour will be necessary to safely complete this work and guide traffic a rou nd t he constr uction site. A detour will be posted directing vehicles to utilize I-95 between Exits 3 and 4 to bypass this area. Access to local roadways and driveways will be maintained on each side of Indian Harbor. Pedestrian traff ic will be prohibited during construction. The project is scheduled to take place between Friday, June 12 and Sunday, June 21 (schedule subject to change). Greenw ich Police and traffic control signs will be deployed in Bruce Park to help manage the flow of traffic.

GPS Awards On Wednesday, May 27, Greenwich Public Schools (G P S ) s t u d e nt s we r e presented with Community Service Awards. The student award recipients and program participants are: Elementary School Awards Student Representatives: Nina Baldinucci, Cos Cob Ava Hagerty and Emma Maini, Glenville School Keeghan Kortner, Hamilton Avenue Slater Palmer, The International School at Dundee Lynn Gulli, Julian Curtiss Alexis Palanca, New Lebanon Kaitlyn Qin and Kyler Woerz, North Mianus Charlotte Marek and Isabella Nedder, North Street Patrick Owen Cunnion and Oliva Leach, Old Greenwich Noah Coppel and Aliza Torop, Parkway Bobby Stanley, Riverside Middle School Awards Student recipients: Martin Fomin, Central Audrey Long, Eastern Kristine Anne De Jesus, Western Daniella Gavalas, Western High School Awards Student recipients: Emma Burstiner, Bella Lucas Gazianis, Cantor Amy Barratt, Clark Luciana Stefani, Folsom Kate Ochoa, Sheldon The Fleishman Service Award Emil Perdue, Greenwich High

RTM Approves Budget, Delays BOE Resolution By Richard Kaufman W hen t he Represent at ive Town Meeting comes together every year in the spring to approve Greenwich's budget, debate and analysis on motions to cut funding usually stretches well into the night. But on Monday, t he tow n body swiftly approved the $448 million spending plan for the 20202021 fiscal year, which begins on July 1, by a vote of 158 in favor, 61 opposed, and four abstentions. The process took about 30 minutes, and no motions were made. This year's budget process was unusual due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Board of Estimate and Taxation Budget Committee approved an increase to various budgets resulting overall in a $459.8 million budget. Then, i n late Apr i l as the economic fallout from the pandemic was felt, the BET decided to go with flat year over year budgets with no increases, rsulting overall in a $448 million budget. The annual RTM meeting to approve the budget was pushed back a month, from it's usual early May date to Monday. "I would like to emphasize that we, the BET, consider this budget as a deviation from typical years and our budget guidelines -- a true judgement call based on

the impacts of COVID-19 and not having our crystal ball to rely on," said BET chair, Michael Mason, in his comments to the RTM. Mason recalled that last October before COVID-19 even existed, in crafting budget guidelines for this upcoming fiscal year, it was noted that Greenwich had "left the status quo as for budgets." "This certainly is not a status q uo bud ge t ," M a s on s a id on Monday. "All the leadership in town will be more challenged than ever. Our residents and business owners will see different impacts from the economic storm. They all need to be part of the dialogue and informed continually." In reaction to the economic impact from the coronavirus, the town's capital budget was reduced and projects were delayed. Additionally in late April, all town department operating budgets were held to where they are in the current (2019-2020) fiscal year budget. "It's important to note that all the town obligations are funded -- pension, retirement, OPEB, debt service, healthcare, workers compensation, unemployment expenses, and so on," Mason added. The decision in late April to hold town departments steady

meant that requests for increases of $367,471 to the police department, $143,011 to the fire department, and $501,128 to the Highways in the Department of Public Works did not make it into the budget, among other items. A three million dollar increase request by the Board of Education, mostly for raises, was also not included. This decision caused outcry from scores of residents, who had protested in front of Town Hall in April, and sent emails to town officials asking them to reconsider. Superintendent of Greenwich Public Schools, Dr. Toni Jones, has

to "act swiftly and grant interim appropriations to the Board of Education for the 2020-21 fiscal school year" was created by RTM members Mareta Hamre and Janet McMahon. The non-binding resolution went before the RTM on Monday night following the budget vote. However, af ter over three hours of debate, the item was not voted on because a two-thirds vote to suspend the rules requiring a “second reading” of the item was not achieved. The vote to suspend the rules failed: 120 in support to proceed with a vote on Monday, 88 opposed with no abstentions. The

meeting, and then the item would be moved to the next regularly s che du le d me et i ng for mor e discussion before a vote. Because the rules were not suspended, and because the RTM does not meet in the summer, the item was moved to September when the town body reconvenes. The discussion portion on the SOMR featured over 50 speakers. M c M a h o n s a i d t h at fo r a decade, the BET has "quietly put the Board of Education (BOE) on a starvation diet", where it was mandated that the BOE was not to exceed a two percent increase in their operating expenses.

"I would like to emphasize that we, the BET, consider this budget as a deviation from typical years and our budget guidelines -- a true judgement call based on the impacts of COVID-19 and not having our crystal ball to rely on," said BET chair, Michael Mason said that absence of $3 million could result in staffing cuts and changes to programming. Subsequently, a Sense of the Meeting Resolution (SOMR) for the RTM, which urged the BET

RTM meeting adjourned shortly before 1 a.m. According to the rules of the RTM under "Second Reading", a resolution on the call shall be presented with discussion at one

"In order to meet these austere guidelines, the BOE has had to sustain cuts year after year until finally these compounded cuts have brought us to where we are now, a

See BUDGET page 4

A Protest at Town Hall

Hundreds Gather in Protest Organized by Indivisible Greenwich By Foster Steinbeck In the largest protest in the organization’s history, hundreds of demonstrators, many carrying signs calling for racial justice, packed in front of Greenwich Town Hall to peacefully protest police brutality and systemic racism in America on June 1, as a part of Indivisible Greenwich’s “G r e enw ich Ca r e s: R a l ly for Justice” event. Sparked by the death of George Floyd — an unarmed, black man — at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis last week, protests have sprung up across the nation, some turning into riots. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the organizers discouraged marching and shouting chants. However, the event featured several speakers f rom the G r e e nw i ch c om mu n it y, w h o gathered to mourn Floyd’s death, decry police assaults on the press and demonstrators across the county and support the fight for racial justice. “The question today is not how outraged are we over what happened to George [Floyd] or to anyone else that we have seen

brutally murdered, but what will we do to change the underlying conditions that allowed that to happen,” U.S Rep. Jim Himes, a speaker at the event, said to the protesters. H i mes went on to out l i ne examples of systemic racism in America’s history, saying black people were excluded from The New Deal in the 1940s and how a black, world war one veteran was lynched despite his service to the county. Himes also said dissent and protest, in the name of racial justice, is the highest form of

See PROTEST page 4

How Does Your Garden Grow At Bible Street

By Anne W. Semmes

O n la st S at u r day ’s su n ny afternoon, the Bible Street Greenwich Community Gardeners in Cos Cob were doing a bit of “Scrub and Grub” of their 4 by 8-foot plots. Maria Cleary-Guida, who serves on the Bible Street Garden Steering Committee, and who has invested four years gardening her plot, says this year there are 105 active lots, up from a previous 92. C l e a r y- G u i d a h e l p s w i t h the Neighborly Harvest arm of the Garden, with nearly a dozen plots producing fresh greens for Neighbor-to-Neighbor (N2N). “We’ve already harvested from their Gardener Joel Collamer shows off one of the robust plots,” says Community gardener Neighbor to Neighbor plots he helped plant. Joel Collamer. He shows off vibrant Photo by Anne W. Semmes rows of Red Sail lettuce he helped plant in the N2N plots.

Collamer has his first-year plot that he tends three days a week, growing the arugula, spinach, and sweet peas he loves. He introduces nearby gardeners Liz and Russ Harden who are into their thirdand fourth-year garden plots full of, “Tomatoes, tomatoes, tomatoes,” says Russ Harden. The varieties include beef steak, cherry, and “yellow gold.” “We start early and end early,” says Liz Harden, who tends her tomatoes two or three times a week. “We grow them from seed at home in the middle of March with the help of a grow light.” Others use seedling heat mats, she says. “You learn so much growing your garden here. There are some real professional gardeners here.” This is the Bible Street

Community Garden’s 12th growing year. Its 2020 Handbook is available online. (And, there are two others in town, Armstrong Court Community Garden, and the Culinary Wellness Garden at Nathaniel Witherell.) For $50 a season you get “a raised bed filled with organic soil and compost.” And note, in these tough times, “We will not turn anyone away due to f inancial constraints,” and “Installment pay ment arrangements are available.” Free of charge is abundant bird song emanating from the surrounding woods, including t h at s a d l y de c r e a s i n g Wo o d Thrush! For more information, check out their website at www. greenwichcommunitygardens.org

Businesses Recount Struggles, Reopening Tactics

By Foster Steinbeck

Following Gov. Ned Lamont order to close non- e ssent ia l busi ne sse s due to COV I D -19 concerns on March 20, Smart Kids Toys owner Heather Rounds worked as the company’s sole employee for two months — 14hour shifts, seven days a week — taking care of the company's customer orders and other storef ront needs as wel l her regular responsibilities.

Her only day off was Easter Sunday. Fo r t u n a t e l y, s h e l a t e r received funds from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program, allowing her to employ two of her furloughed store managers again, five days before the state’s phase one reopening date on May 20. Rounds said it’s wonderful to hear children’s voices again, saying there’s been a steady flow of customers.

Angela Cosmai, owner of Angela Cosmai salon, poses for a picture inside her store on June 10. Cosmai is importing hairstylist from New York City to help run her salon. (photo/Foster Steinbeck)

“It ’s huge to k now you’re making kids happy, and making their parents happy. That’s what we’re doing this for,” Rounds said. “Last week, I was playing kick ball with a toddler, and I hadn’t done that in three months, and I was in heaven. Pure Joy.” Smart K ids Toys is one of several businesses in Greenwich t h a t h a ve b e e n h u r t b y t h e COVID-19 pandemic, but are now

See BUSINESS on page 4

Page 2 | Greenwich Sentinel

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HEALTH NEWS

Prepping for Hurricane Season From the Red Cross As we all deal with challenging demands of the coronavirus, the June 1 start of hurricane season is coming and it’s important to get prepared. Because of COVID-19, getting prepared will look a little different than in other years. With that thinking in mind, the American Red Cross in Greater NY has tips to help you. “Disasters won’t stop, even during a pandemic,” said Stephanie Dunn Ashley, CEO, American Red Cross Metro NY North Region. “Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 and early reports predict an ‘above average season' with three to six storms reaching major hurricane strength. Make your preparations now, thinking about the coronavirus situation as you do.” MAKE A PLAN In light of the coronavirus, you may have to adjust any previous plans you made. If authorities advise you to evacuate, be prepared to leave immediately with your evacuation kit (see below). Plan now if you will need help leaving or if you need to share transportation. Ask friends or relatives outside your area if you are able to stay with them. Check and see if they have symptoms of COVID-19 or have people in their home at higher risk for serious illness. If they have symptoms or people at higher risk in their home, make other arrangements. Check with hotels, motels and campgrounds to see if they are open. Find out if your local emergency management agency has adapted its sheltering plans. Plan ahead for your pets. Keep a phone list of pet-friendly hotels/ motels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes. Remember, if it’s not safe for you to stay home, it’s not safe for your pets. BUILD A KIT Assemble two kits of emergency supplies and a one-month supply of prescription medication. Some supplies may be hard to get, and availability will worsen in a disaster, so start

gathering supplies now. Start with this basic supply list: St ay-at-home k it: I nclude everything you need to stay at home for at least two weeks with items such as food, water, household cleaning and disinfectant supplies, soap, paper products and personal hygiene items. EVACUATION KIT: Your second kit should be a lightweight, smaller version that you can take with you if you must leave your home quickly. Include everything you need to be on your own for three days: Food and water Personal hygiene items C l e a n i n g a n d d i s i n fe c t a nt supplies that you can use on the go (tissues, hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol and disinfecting wipes) Cloth face coverings for everyone in your household who can wear one safely. Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for physical distancing. Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others in public. Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2 , a nyone who has trou ble breathing or is unable to remove it without help. Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream Pet food and extra water Cash or traveler's checks Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identif ication and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container 1-month supply of prescription medication, as well as over-thecounter medications like cough suppressants and fever reducing drugs and medical supplies or equipment. Keep these items together in a separate container so you can take them with you if you have to evacuate. BE INFORMED Have access to weather alerts and community notifications. Be sure that you can receive official notifications even

during a power outage. Always follow the directions of your state and local authorities. Use the Red Cross interactive map to identify likely disasters in your area. Learn about your community’s response plan for each disaster and determine if these plans have been adapted because of COVID-19. Find contact information for state, local and tribal governments and agencies, and for state emergency management agencies. Because of COVID-19, stay current on advice and restrictions from your state and local public he a lt h aut hor it ie s a s it m ay affect your actions and available resources and facilities. ON L I N E R ESOU RCES TO HELP GET YOU PREPARED: Preparedness for K ids: The Pillowcase Project – The Pillowcase Project is an interactive preparedness education program, typically taught in a classroom setting, for children in grades 3 through 5 that teaches kids how to prepare for emergencies, practice what they have learned, and share their knowledge with family and friends. The idea is that when an emergency occurs, everyone in the child’s family knows what to do and how to help each other stay safe. As part of this age-appropriate lesson the kids will also learn skills to help them cope with the emotional brought on by these dif ferent emergencies. The Pillowcase Project virtual classes are offered via Webex weekly. www.redcross. org/gnyprepare P r ep a r e d ne s s for Adu lt s: Prepare, Respond, Recover: What to do When Disaster Strikes – The training gives a comprehensive overview on how to prepare for natural and man-made disasters and how to respond to and recover from them. Virtual classes are offered via WebEx weekly. www.redcross.org/ gnyprepare Visit redcross.org/hurricane for full information about what to do before, during and after a hurricane.

Bright Stars

Kids need help with the computer vision too. By Robert Fucigna, MD

documented to cause problems your surroundings and trying a w i t h h u m a n D N A a n d l i g h t "matte screen filter" to cut Glare, sensitive tumors but that does not usually available at cell phone or How are your bright stars mean that blue light is harmful. computer stores. looking these days? Kids need help with the computer vision too. All this talk about working f rom home and eye strain, sometimes we forget that our little ones are using computer screens a lot more than we wanted and expected. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests from a neurological perspective that our young ones should spend no more than a moderate amount of time interacting with a computer daily. We simply don't know ! Most of In a "stay at home; live on your computer world," eye the studies are TV watching! Over strain and other physical issues are a hazard. the last decade, we mostly thought about gaming and it’s effects on It seems to me that blue light As previously noted , artificial our students, but now even our prevention is a popular topic, te a r s at t h e c ompute r h e lp s kindergarten kids are encouraged but the American Academy of because we blink less frequently to look at a laptop or desktop or Ophthalmology suggest you skip while on these screens. Take iPad for at least three hours a the glasses!!! The blue light emitted breaks , develop a plan, avoid blue day while schooling from home. from a computer or smartphone blockers for the computer. And What’s a mom to do? is far less than the sun, and we if you are getting headaches, see On the Web: are likely suffering from Digital your favorite eye doctor. Unglue is a website that gives Eye Strain. A few more simple Sent from my eye phone! k ids power to learn healthier fixes include adjusting the screen Dr. Fucigna can be reached at ha bits, w ith a schedu ler and brightness to match the level in (203) 348-7575. rewards. Circle is another app that has a control module. An at home Family Media Use Plan that addresses the need to play, study,talk and sleep should b e d i s c u s s e d w it h t h e k i d s . Our little guys’ nervous system certainly is still developing, and it’s recommended that when students spend 30 mins on the monitor they take a 5-10 minute screen break. It’s also recommended that they get up and move those bodies around to help them concentrate and learn effectively. Of course, the big kids might be engaged in their monitors for 6 hours a day! Increasing eye strain, boredom and weary eyes. As we watch our children study from home, we might notice that they are affected by the screen. It seems you can’t get on your own device these days without being inundated with advertising regarding blue blockers or some type of eye glass to reduce your strain. We often get asked about the benefits of blue blockers and there remains a big debate. It seems that blue light and violet light are on the scale closest to ultraviolet light which is well

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On My Watch: Ann and Jan DuBois Osprey scouting in a pandemic.

By Anne W. Semmes Ann and Jan ( Jonathan) DuBois have long lived on Greenwich shores. They are grandparents but nothing slows them down. They’re opera buffs - they love to cook, and they enjoy the natural world. So, a natural escape in these lockdown days was to climb into their double kayak and take to the water. Along the way they found a new passion, scouting out osprey nests along those Greenwich shores. The proof is all there, neatly noted on sailor Jan’s navigational map – 27 osprey nests, reading left to right, from Greenwich Point to Calf Island, with only two inactive. “It’s thrilling,” says Ann, of the

deep, with huge heights of sticks.” Why, Jan asks has there been this request to name the new osprey owners of the latest platform rise on Greenwich Point? “Why not name the old veterans that have been coming back for 15 years or more and have nests reaching heights of three and a half feet?” Important in their osprey scouting is to see which nests are active. “Early in the season we tried to find active nests,” says Ann. But, “Let’s not go too close,” she’ll say. “The male will fly around our kayak, making noise. Jan will tell the squawking birds, ‘We’re leaving, you’re doing okay…We’re off.’” To their great surprise next door to their kayak dock in Smith Cove, a pair of ospreys started building a nest last

“Why not name the old [osprey] veterans that have been coming back for 15 years or more and have nests reaching heights of three and a half feet?” Jan DuBois. year, precariously, atop a gallows - two osprey population inf lux they’ve seen pilings connected by a cross beam. It did over the last five years. “It’s great fun not survive. This year the “opportunists” seeing them fish,” she says, describing were back. After “a southerly blow” took their angled dives into the water. She away their first attempt, “They started recalls the dead fish phase in a polluted building denovo (from new),” tells Jan, Long Island Sound in the 1950’s to with an odd assortment of plant leaves 1970’s, of finding skeletons of dead fish and plastic woven into the sticks. Then washed up that were starved for oxygen. came a third osprey vying for the female, Top: The 27 osprey nests found by Ann and Jan DuBois on the Greenwich shoreline are noted on their “In 1962,” she recently read, “there were was Jan’s guess. There was a lot of navigational map. only 250 ospreys in all of New England.” “flapping of wings,” but all settled down Bottom Left: Veteran osprey nest on Great Island in Greenwich Cove. Photo by Jan Dubois. But then those osprey platforms with the female doing her incubating, Bottom Right: In their locked down time Ann and Jan DuBois took to osprey nest scouting along the began appearing in Greenwich Cove. though Jan notes, “They should have had Greenwich shore line. Ospreys, Jan surmises are “opportunists. nestlings by May 30.” I f someone bu i lds a platfor m why There are other birds they enjoy should I work?” Traditionally, he adds, seeing, great blue herons and great “Unbelievable. I’ve seen them on a float. “The shorebirds consider the tidal goes to. Sometimes going to these magic “The ospreys like to build their nests in egrets. As of five years ago when they I’ve seen them on Tower (Shell) Island, ponds their private preserve,” says Jan. tidal ponds, you can get lost in the fog.” Greenwich trees with little foliage. They dead- were PUB/POST: Island, Pig Island (Great Island). He shares their names for them: “Magic But on a clear day, “You can see New paddling aboutSentinel; withissue birderPRODUCTION: John Goose CODE:like HSS-2020-42A N/A LIVE: None dates: 6/1 - 6/14 (5/26/2020) naked trees. They need DESCRIPTION: a crotch.”TheHe The oystercatcher is such charming Pond - it was created at the end of Mead York City.” Hannan, then with Greenwich Audubon, Best Orthopedics WORKORDER #: 74554 TRIM: 10.75”ax 10.8” shows a photo of a naturalFILE: tree nest on bird!” Point, Calf Island Pond, and the Great Postscript: Jan DuBois is happy they learned there were 50 breeding 03A-74550-04A-HSS-2020-42A.indd SAP #: HSS.HSSGEN.20000.B.011 BLEED: None Shell Island, and did he know of that pairs of egrets on Great Captain Island, “One of the nicest things to do in Captain Island Sanctuary. Egrets, great to share his map and accompanying newly 212.237.7000 discovered one in the woods on but that number has declined, “due to locked up time,” Ann chimes in, “is to go blue herons, and oystercatchers like list of osprey nests on the Greenwich Greenwich Point? out with the wind and the water - when these ponds.” shoreline. His email is jddubois@gmail. lack of food.” It’s those high-rise stick nests that “They are one of our pleasures,” says com. The prevalence of the once rare the tide comes in, we can paddle into the f ill Ann full of wonder. “They are so migrator y oystercatcher, Jan calls, tidal ponds.” Ann. “They are secret places no one else T:10.75”

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LOCAL NEWS UPDATES

TOWN HALL RE-OPENS

Greenwich Town Hall re-opened on June 1. The building will be open to visitors on an appointment-only basis. Appointments available from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. – must be made in advance with individual Departments. Walk-ins will not be permitted. Visitors must wear face masks to gain entry to the building. As operations begin to resume at Town Hall, residents are encouraged to continue to conduct business online or via telephone.

QUESTIONS ABOUT COVID-19 • The Department of Health has five phone lines specif ically dedicated to the public for questions and answers about COVID-19. They are: 203-622-7865; 203-622-7703; 203-622- 7614; 203622-7842 and 203-622-7836. • Greenwich Hospital/Yale New Haven Health: call center for any questions about the virus, can be reached at 833-275-9644.

ASSISTANCE WITH BASIC NEEDS The Department of Human Ser v ices encourages residents to call if they need assistance with basic needs such as food, finances, and living arrangements. The number is 203-622-3800.

LOSS, GRIEF VIRTUAL SUPPORT

The American Red Cross in Connecticut has a free Virtual Family Assistance Center to support families struggling with loss and grief due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. People can visit RedCross.org/vFAC to access a support hub with special virtual programs, information, referrals and services to support families in need. The hub will also connect people to other community resources provided by 2-1-1, CT VOAD, and other partners. People without Internet access can call 833-492-0094 for help.

NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR Client families in need of assistance are referred by The Greenwich Department of Human Services. Anyone can donate funds or buy food items for people in need. Simply select the food and click to pay. Visit ntngreenwich.org

SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN & FAMILIES Kids In Crisis Trained Crisis Counselors are available around the clock to provide support to children and families. The helpline number is 203-661-1911. Kids In Crisis has a Wish List on their website (kidsincrisis.org/ways-to-give/wishlist) of items they need, which they will continue to update.

DOMESTIC ABUSE

WE REPAIR WHAT YOUR HUSBAND FIXED

SERVICES

If you are in crisis, please call the 24/7 YWCA Greenwich Domestic Abuse Services Hotline at 203-622-0003.

MENTAL ILLNESS SUPPORT GROUPS NAMI Southwest CT National Alliance on Mental Illness offers various online support groups. Visit namisouthwestct.org

TAG (Transportation Association of Greenwich) TAG is ex tending their ser v ices to help r e sident s who a r e homeb ou nd du r i ng t he Coronavirus emergency by delivering food and bringing seniors to critical appointments.

VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX PROGRAM VITA, the IRS’s companion to the A AR P volunteer income tax program, has initiated a virtual (online) option for the free preparation and e-filing of your taxes by the new July 15 deadline. You will need to complete and submit the form. VITA will then schedule a one-hour time slot on the portal to have a phone or video interview to complete and review returns. You may begin the process by using this link: form.jotform. com/200751255209146

INFRARED THERMOMETERS AVAILABLE the State of Connecticut will be distributing 50,000 infrared thermometers it has secured for small businesses, nonprofits, and places of worship to support safe reopening activities amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Entities that would like to request a thermometer can fill out the forms located at ct.gov/coronavirus in the “Access to Personal Protective Equipment” section.

VOLUNTEERS FIREFIGHTERS NEEDED The Greenwich Fire Department is currently seek ing civic-minded Greenwich citizens to become volunteer f iref ighters within all the Volunteer Fire Companies/Fire Patrol throughout town. Anyone interested in learning more about the GFD should call recruitment coordinator Brian Kelly at 203-618-8877 or email: BKelly@ greenwichct.org

CENSUS 2020 Participate in Census 2020 - go to

my2020census.gov and enter your code or home address. For people who do not have access to a computer, they can complete it by calling these numbers: English: 1-84 4-330-2020; Spanish: 1-844-468-2020; Chinese (Mandarin): 1-844391-2020; Chinese (Cantonese): 1-844-398-2020; Haitian Creole: 1-844-474-2020.

GPD NON-EMERGENCY LINE If you are concerned about an activity or a group not following COVID-19 protocols, please call the Greenwich Police Department’s nonemergency phone number: 203-622- 8004.

LIBRARY MATERIALS Greenwich Library, as well as Byram Shubert Library and Cos Cob Library, will take the first step toward establishment of in-person services by launching No-Contact Pick Up of Library materials by appointment on June 15. The Library will continue to offer virtual programs, which can be found on the Librar y ’s online calendar. For more information, visit greenwichlibrary.org

‘WHAT'S YOUR POINT’? The Friends of Greenwich Point want to hear from residents about “What’s Your Point?” – share a photo and details with them about what Greenw ich Point means to you. They will compile and share what’s sent to them on their website for everyone to enjoy. Feel free to email them photos and “What’s Your Point?” to info@friendsofgreenwichpoint.org or you can tag or message them on their Facebook and Instagram accounts. #friendsofgreenwichpoint #whatsyourgreenwichpoint

SUMMER ART CLASSES The Greenwich Art Society Studio School offers Summer Zoom Classes for all levels. For more information on classes, supply lists, and to register, visit greenwichartsociety.org

GBC GREENHOUSE BY APPOINTMENT The Greenwich Botanical Center offers ShopBy-Appointment access to their greenhouse. How it works: 1) Email your appointment request: select a one-hour slot on Mon, Wed, Thu or Fri, 10am4pm. 2) Await confirmation from greenhouse staff for your desired time. 3) Invite up to three friends or family members to join you. 4) Arrive and shop.

TUTORIALS FOR KIDS Old Greenw ich-R iverside Com mu n it y Center (OGRCC) offers weekly free tutorials and challenges. For more information, visit myogrcc. org and/or follow them on: facebook.com/myogrcc

Safety Town

GPD and Red Cross Teach Safety, Awareness to Children

Complete Home Repairs Maintenance Honey-do Lists Real estate get-readys Aging in place RELAX WE ’ VE GOT THIS This week began the American Red Cross Greenwich Safety Town. Safety Town is a comprehensive week-long safety education program offered to local children every summer. The classes teach awareness and accident prevention skills to local children entering kindergarten in the fall. This year Safety Town is virtual. The Greenwich Police Department created two videos for the kids, one by Officer "Bob" Ferretti and the other by Animal Control Officer Suzanne Carlin. Today was the pick-up date for bicycle helmets. The helmets were handed out by Community Impact Officers Hirsch and Paladino and were provided by the Greenwich Police Silver Shield Association.

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5/30/20 4:44 PM

From the Astronomical Society of Greenwich

What to Look for In June Skies LUNACY June 12 Moon passes Mars and Neptune June 13 Last Quarter June 14 Moon at apogee (251,404 miles from Earth) June 16 Moon passes Uranus June 19 Moon passes Venus, occulting it in northern Europe and Canada June 21 New Moon causes an Annular Solar Eclipse, not visible from North America June 22 Moon passes Mercury June 28 First Quarter June 29 Moon at perigee (229,260 miles from Earth)

BOWMAN OBSERVATORY PUBLIC NIGHTS Sagittarius and Capricornus. First and third Wednesday of every month public nights are About two hours later, along comes Mars (mag.0) in Aquarius, still suspended. where it passes telescopic planet Neptune (mag.7.9) at mid-month. The Moon passes both planets on June 12. Mars moves eastward NEWS OF THE WORLDS into Pisces, brightening to mag.-0.5. Uranus (mag.5.9) can be seen Mercury (mag. 0.1) appears in the evening sky in Gemini, with with binoculars in Aries, which rises around 4 AM. The Moon can the best views during the first two weeks of June. Although our help you find it on the morning of June 16. innermost planet sets two hours after the Sun, it never gets higher Finally, Venus, our bright “evening star” for so many months, than 7° above the horizon. After reaching greatest elongation (24° reaches inferior conjunction on June 3, passing just 0.2° below the east of the Sun) on June 4, it drops back toward the setting Sun, Sun’s disk and appearing in the pre-dawn sky a few days later, still fading to mag. 1.4 and reaching inferior conjunction on June 30. bright at mag.-4.3. By month’s end it rises by 3:30am. We have to wait until midnight for the next planetary appearance. Jupiter (mag.-2.6) rises around 11:30 on June 1, The Summer Solstice occurs June 20, 5:44 PM EDT. progressing to a 9:15 rising and brightening to mag. -2.7 by the 30th. Saturn (mag.0.4) follows, only 6° behind, and brightens to Visit astrogreenwich.org for more information or to join. mag.0.2 by month’s end. Both planets lie on the border between

CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE

BUDGET From Page 1

woefully underfunded budget with a $1.5 million shortfall in special education and about 90 percent of our operating budget going towards contractual obligations and fixed costs. We simply have no more fat to cut, except our teachers," McMahon said. "This SOMR is actually almost 10 years

PROTEST From Page 1

patriotism in America. Himes ended his speech by reciting U.S. Rep. John Lewis’s words on the protest and riots across the nation, calling for non-violent protests rather than rioting to attain justice and equality. R ev. D r. T hom a s N i n s — senior pastor of First Baptist Church and a chaplain in the Greenwich police force — spoke to the audience about his father’s and his grown son’s fear of police brutality while saying not all police officers are corrupt. “Your fears are real,” Nins said to the protesters. Despite living in the Bronx, Na r i ne M a lcom c a me to t he event with her family and friends after hearing about it from her daughter, who attends school in Greenwich. Malcolm said she feels like “there is a possibility our voices will be heard.” “We had to be here,” Malcolm said. “I’m so g ratef ul for the town of Greenwich to do this. I would not have expected this f r o m G r e e nw i c h . M y s i s t e r lives in Greenwich, but I never u nder sto o d t hat t her e wer e people in Greenwich who saw me, saw my daughter and … could see what’s happening in this country.” The event also featured a brief reading of The New Jim Crow, which outlined the system ic nature of the racial problems facing black Americans. Hugo Levine, a central middle school student, spoke to the audience and called for adults to fight for racial justice and acknowledge white privilege.

in the mak ing. A ll things do eventually reach a breaking point, and our breaking point came in the form of a pandemic." She noted that instead of investing in the school system, the BET used the pandemic as a "convenient scapegoat to starve the BOE budget further." Mary Ellen Markowitz, an RTM member from District 2, urged her fellow members to support the SOMR. "I feel that budgets are moral documents, especially the Board

of Education budget. It directly af fects ou r ch ild ren a nd the important people who educate them, and we can afford to fund our public schools. If we do not, the consequences will be great and our children will suffer," she said. Markowitz heard from an English teacher at Greenwich High School about how the flat budget will affect her department. "In the past, her department has had a shortage of books, and with this budget cut, it's been

Organizers also called on attendees to Campaign Zero, a campaign to end police brutality, and the Connecticut Bail Fund, as well as vote in the upcoming local and federal elections. “ We d o b e l i e ve t h a t democracy is not a spectator sport,” Indivisible Greenwich Cofounder Marine Levine said. “And in order to preserve what we hope to have or what we had, we have to speak out. We try to be that voice in the community.” State Sen. Alex Kassar and State Rep. Steve Meskers attended the event. First Selectman Fred Camillo also attended the event, w h o I n d i v i s i b l e G r e e nw i c h organizers called on to sign the Obama Foundation’s “commit to action” pledge to review the city’s use-of-force policies. While say ing he isn’t thrilled with Joe Biden being the democratic nominee for the presidential election, Nins said Republicans have “got to go!” “It’s not that the other party walks on water, but at least that party is going to feel some sense of responsibility and obligation to at least give the appearance they are standing for all people, and not some people in the United States of America,” Nins said. The event ended as protesters knelt for eight minutes and 46 seconds in a moment of silence, the same duration that Floyd was fatally suffocated for. “We all need to stand up for the injustices that happen to lots of us, especially now with raising a black child,” Denise Meindl said, a protester said. “It’s sad. It’s sad in this day and age now, many years ago that Martin Luther King spoke about standing together … it is now starting to happen, but let’s see where it goes.”

BUSINESS

made clear that they can't place orders for more in this upcoming academic year," Markowitz added. Wynn McDaniel of District 7 urged the town body to vote no on the SOMR, adding that she believes the $3 million, equivalent to 1.5 percent of the whole BOE budget, could be procured elsewhere. "The proposed budget is flat, it's not reduced like many other towns in Connecticut," she noted. "I can't believe that 1.5 percent can't be procured after a bottoms

From Page 1

looking to return to normalcy by trying new business approaches and tactics. Rounds said the company was lucky to have a website that allows customers to place online orders. Now, she said she is aiming to increase email and social media marketing. A l o n g s i d e a d h e r i n g t o t h e s t a t e ’s reopening guidelines, Rounds is requesting patrons to not touch the store’s toys and has shelved the store’s play tables and doll displays. R o u n d s s a i d s h e c a n e a s i l y a vo i d ordering too many toys because of the store’s independent nature, which avoids wasting money. Rounds said she was able to pull back on inventory orders in late February, as she saw “the writing on the wall.” A l t h o u g h R o u n d s s a i d t h e s t o r e ’s suppliers struggled to fulfill shipping orders completely, she was able to f ind other suppliers to help get the toys the store needed during the shutdown. “We can pull back when we need to … but then we can rush forward and order if we need to,” Rounds said. However, Fifi and Bella, a contemporary young women’s clothing store on Greenwich Avenue didn’t have the same f lexibility with ordering its inventory, as the industry around the store “came to a screeching halt.” “I don’t think people realize, it’s more t ha n t he store b ei ng close d,” F i f i a nd B el la ow ner Fel ic ia S a la z a r s a id . “A l l the showrooms in Manhattan, all of the manufacturing facilities were completely shut down. We couldn’t open the store. We couldn’t really buy anything.” Salazar said the business couldn’t place orders online when the closure first started. In response, she began marketing the store’s clothes on Instagram, then delivering the orders herself to interested customers or utilizing curbside pickup.

up review of the budget. Yes, there will be investments, but there will also be savings. I ask the BOE to examine both." Laura Gladstone from District 2, and others who opposed the SOMR, asked that teachers take pay freezes for a year, noting that pensions would still be funded. Alex Popp, a teacher in the Greenwich Public Schools system and an RTM member from District 4, opposed the SOMR, calling it "distracting." "The SOMR has divided

Salazar is currently setting up the store’s website to process sales with the help of a website designer, and has recently started receiving clothing from manufacturers again. She also said the company is starting to sell more accessories like candles and pillows, as well as start producing its own loungewear. “If we’ve learned anything from this, we need to be online, because we could have been selling stuff online when we closed,” Salazar said. Despite the mounting bills and minimal income, Fif i and Bella didn’t reopen on May 20. Wanting to ensure they were in complete compliance with state guidelines to protect customer safety, and to see how other businesses on the Avenue were faring, Salazar reopened the store Tuesday. She sa id t he store d rew a rou nd 2 0 customers on its first day reopening, and was pleasantly surprised by their relaxed nature in the face of the pandemic. “When I walked here [on the Avenue], May 20, before we opened, it was a ghost town. It was depressing. I think people are getting more comfortable coming out. People want to get it out,” Salazar said. Further down the Avenue, Angela Cosmai Salon owner Angela Cosmai said she has customers that come from New York City to her Greenwich location to get their hair done. New York City Salons are scheduled to reopen in phase II of the city’s reopening plan, set to start in late June. “[When] you’re a hairdresser, you’re not only doing someone’s hair,” Cosmai said. “You’re their confidant, their friend, their therapist, as well as they are for you. You have this great relationship.” Cosmai said the closure hurt the busi ne ss. Wit h no i ncome f rom cl ient appointments, Cosmai said she dipped into her savings to keep the company afloat. Cosmai is cur rently impor ting hair stylists from New York City. Cosmai said she aims to increase marketing efforts on social media and through emails to her clients. Cosmai said she is also spreading out client

t h e tow n , n e i g h b o r a g a i n s t neighbor. The tone has been unprecedented and mean spirited," he said. "The SOMR has been counterproductive. It's distracting from the work that needs to be done. We're in the middle of a pandemic and it has consumed countless hours of our administrative time that should have been used to develop plans for next September's school year." The next RTM meeting will be held on Sept. 21, and debate around the BOE budget figures to

appointments, by expanding operating hours, to give them more space from other clients. “I want to keep my business going. I love being on Greenwich Avenue, and I love my clients, and taking care of people and making them happy. And also I have to take care of my family, so I’m here,” Cosmai said. Rick Kral, Greenwich Water Club owner, a lso saw h is compa ny's sa les revenue decrease drastically during the closure. However, he ensured every employee got a paycheck during the closure by reducing expenses across the board, such as cutting back on food costs and not buying new equipment for the program classes. K ral also leng thened the work week to seven days and allowed employees to choose which days they worked, to help accommodate their childcare and health concerns. He also provided them with gloves, masks and disinfecting materials for their work stations. Kral praised the employees and the club members who fund the business, calling it a “huge, cooperative effort” to ensure safety. Kral said he is looking forward to June 17, the start of Connecticut’s phase II reopening, when the business’s gym, pool and indoor dining will be allowed to start up again under certain conditions. “We’re hopefully from there we can sa lvage Ju ly, Aug ust, a couple of good months, and everything will stay on track and will stay healthy. We’ll try to get back to some sense of normalcy,” Kral said. Kral also introduced spinning, crosstraining and other classes outdoors in the building’s parking lot in mid-May, making sure to clean and disinfect the equipment. “It’s a lot of extra work, but the members really appreciate it,” Kral said. “People came up to tell us it’s not so much the physical training as much as the mental relief of coming out and seeing other people … and not seeing the same faces for two months. It’s a great change.”

Armstrong Court The Housing Author it y of the Town of Greenwich (HATG) w i l l hold t he r i bb on- c ut t i ng ceremony of 18 new construction townhouse units contained in six buildings representing Phase 1 of the overall Armstrong Court redevelopment project. The event is open to the public and will take place on Saturday, June 13, at 10 a.m. "This is a transformative step in advancing the quality of affordable housing for the Town of Greenwich. We welcome the public to come and tour the new units," said Anthony Johnson, Executive Director of the Housing Authority. "We are committed to providing the opportunity to live in quality, affordable housing through fiscally responsible asset management of our resources, and these 18 units are an exceptional example of our capabilities." HATG Board Chairman Sam Romeo said, "I am happy to say this is a great day for me. It is the f irst step in accomplishing my vision of totally transforming Armstrong Court. When all phases are completed, it will be a jewel of the Town." Romeo went on to credit several contributors, "I must say that none of this would have been accomplished without the support of our dedicated staff and Board of Commissioners, who have been in total support of what we have put forward." Romeo called the completion of Phase 1, "the first major project in our long-range plan

for affordable housing in the Town of Greenwich." The new unit mix includes six two-bedroom units and 12 threebedroom units, with 1 ½ bathrooms in each. The units were constructed on previous underdeveloped land and under Energy Star standards with energy efficiency features. The f irst 18 units will serve as replacement housi ng to ease the relocation and rehabilitation logistics of the second phase. Phase 2 will include the gut rehabilitation of Buildings #1, 3, a nd 6 a nd expected to begin in late summer. Each construction phase is slated to take 12 months. Residents will be shifted within the complex while the units are gutted and rehabilitated. After each phase of construction is complete, residents are moved into the newly refurbished units. The next phases of the redevelopment project will combine the current one-bedroom and twobedroom units to produce more three-bedroom, two-bathroom units, which are in higher demand for families. "Over the next 5-7 years, we plan on bringing forward plans to build nearly 300 new units in the Town to increase our housing stock. This is an all-new Housing Authority for the 21st century. Stay tuned- the best is yet to come," explained Romeo. The ex i st i ng bu i ld i ng s at Armstrong Court were originally constructed in 1951 as a 144-unit family development.

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Editorial Page

Page 6 | Greenwich Sentinel

PUBLISHER Beth@GreenwichSentinel.com Elizabeth Barhydt EDITORS & COPY EDITORS Editor@GreenwichSentinel.com Peter Barhydt, Daniel FitzPatrick, Caroll Melgar, Stapley Russell, Anne W. Semmes, Emma Barhydt

Certainty in Uncertain Times Summer may almost be here, but it does not really feel like it. There is so much that is uncertain at the moment that it is hard to know what to feel. It seems like we went from Valentine’s Day, to pandemic, to self-quarantine for weeks on end, to Murder Hornets, to protests and riots and looting in the blink of an eye. So fast, in fact, it is hard to process it all. It saddens us to drive down Greenwich Avenue and see the boarded store fronts of some national brands. When our business community should be coming together, that some would feel so threatened they need to board their windows, only adds to the uncertainty. We have been there to cover the protests and vigils. They are important. The murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer kneeling on his neck for nearly nine minutes was horrific, disgusting, inhumane, and so many other words. To protest his murder is completely understandable. To riot and loot is not. Henry David Thoreau said, “There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root.” The question for us is where do we go from here? The protests around the country and here in Greenwich have been against the various police departments. This does not ring true here. Our police department with Chief Jim Heavey and his leadership command have created a department that has a very good relationship with the community it serves. At the recent protest at the police department the Chief and his staff stood at the entrance while protestors, including a member of the Representative Town Meeting, screamed at them. When the screaming finally died down, a dialogue ensued.

Henry David Thoreau said, “There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root.”

Thank you to everyone who wrote in this week to the editorial page. We were overwhelmed with letters, particularly in support of our town's first responders and police department. We have published as many as we could fit in the print edition of the paper. These and the rest will be published online at www.GreenwichSentinel.com.

Letter

Break the Bread Together

By Ed Fox In an attempt to address this “silence” we whites experience, a possible ideal way to initiate a bridging of this chasm, is if EV ERYONE inv ited another of a

dissertation on “Diversity and Racial Minority Success...” at Teachers College, Columbia University, but now may be the time. Thank you for hearing my idea.

Good Cop, Bad Cop

Letter By Nancy Burke What couple has not used those tactics when trying to discipline their children? They do seem to work . A f ter the tragic events of last week in big city Minneapolis, those words take on a more poignant meaning. This past Tuesday the

Letter

League of Women Voters hosted an hour plus session with our awesome Greenw ich Police Chief Jim Heavey. The LW V asked many good questions about enforcement, recruiting, training, high school security, community interaction, etc. If one has lived in Greenwich, one can look back over the years and

can see how fortunate we are to have had an excellent police force combined with the superb leadership of both Police Chiefs a n d Co m m i s s io n e r s ( F i r s t Selectmen.) Our men in blue have worked incredibly hard to protect their constituents way beyond any reporting in the police blotter. Please give

our local policemen a thumbs up when you pass them (slowly) along the road and consider taking the Greenwich Citizens Police Academy or attending a town hall meeting with the Chief when next offered. Nancy Burke, Greenwich Resident for 42 years & Graduate of the Citizens Police Academy.

Amazing Men and Women

By Mike Bocchino On a somewhat normal sunny day strolling down Greenwich Avenue with my son to see the new improvements and grab a bite to eat, thanks to our First Selectman's initiative, I came across the most insulting poster on a tree that I have yet to see in our town these many years. It said 'Our tax dollars are paying for Oppression, Abolish Police." Seriously? Have you met t he a ma z i ng men a nd women of the Greenwich police force? I can only assume that this was put up by someone who either is not from Greenwich or is deeply misguided. So let us look at the blue that matters to me, and by blue I mean our dedicated men and woman in blue. First I can assure you that I would not want and more than likely

Letter

could never do their job. Little respect these days, long hours, little pay, and the unknown of what lies ahead of each day on the job. To all these people out there who have jumped up on the soapbox and have turned your backs on the men and women that serve us in town, to instead support these hate groups and their vicious rhetoric, I say never judge a person until you have walked a mile in their shoes, especially theirs. Now, I sincerely hope that this push for abolishing our police is coming from outside of our town but alas, I saw many familiar faces, some RTM members, at the local peaceful protest outside GPD headquarters where they were videoed calling our police and Police Commissioner Racists and murderers. Many are the

same people who 2 months ago signed a letter stating how pleased they were with the job our f irst selectman was doing. Wonder who or what soapbox changed their minds. However misguided these few individuals have become, let us remind ourselves how lucky we are to have such a phenomenal police force. A force that leads the way in our state at dealing with horrific domestic violence issues. A group that's response time is one of the best around. Men and women who treat our children with respect and care for them like they were their own. Our wonderful men and women of the Greenwich police force are our Thin Blue line and I, like many others, are proud of them and will continue to support them from any evil ..foreign, domestic, and even in our own town. Abolish our Police force - Never!

I Have Your Six

By Stephanie Ashley I think it is safe to say that in the last few weeks we have all had a lot of bad days. The weeks since COVID-19 shutdown our Town, the Nation, and the World, we have all been burdened with added strain, stress and heartbreak to our lives. Nothing will change what

Letter

different color to dinner at their home. With a population mix, there is clearly an opportunity for all to “break the bread” together. I personally have done little since completing in 1999 my Doctoral

has happened, but we can change what will. As we look in the wake of the recent tragedies, there are so many wrongs, but let’s not loop all police officers into the behavior as unacceptable as those in the news. To t h e m e n a n d women of the Greenwich Pol ice D ep a r t ment , I want to say Thank you

for your service. I am in awe of the steadfast leadership of Chief Jim Heavey that has made our Town’s police department the community partner that it is. The men and women who put on the uniform at the start of a shift, that watch each others back, and above all else, protect and serve us; never question their

career choice. For that I am thankful. Thank you for protecting our community a nd ke e pi n g u s s a fe . Thank you for giving up holidays, birthdays and family gatherings. Thank you for missing school events and sports games. W hen dut y calls, you respond. Thank you to your families, as well, for

allowing you to do your job. Thank you for risking your life for mine. Thank you for putting my family’s safety above yours. Thank you for volunteering in the community and giving back to so many. Thank you for being role models to the youth. Thank you for your service. I, for one, have your six.

Praise for Greenwich Chief

Heavey said he was always willing to listen to any community concerns. He always wants to improve By Harry Fisher community relations. Some were there just to yell. have always found Jim to good and not so good. available. of the department be an honest, forthright Ji m ra n k s a mong t he T h e Ac a de my i s a a nd ga i n s a va lua ble The dialogue is what is important. Some have I h ave k now n ou r and smart person. His best that I have known. m u l t i -we e k p r o g r a m understanding of its role criticized our police department for tactics that have current chief of police, kids are well raised and I f yo u w a nt t o k n ow i n t h e e ve n i n g s t h a t in the community. My never been used and are illegal to use. Others have Ji m He avey, si nce he v e r y r e s p e c t f u l a n d h i m a n d t h e e n t i r e focuses on all aspects daughter and I did so criticized the department for a lack of transparency was a pat rolma n a nd successful. I also have depa r t ment bet ter, I o f t h e d e p a r t m e n t . and I learned more than because officers do not wear body cameras that record volu nteer f i rema n. I known most of the chiefs urge you to attend the O n e i n t e r a c t s w i t h I thought I knew about also know his wonderful of police of Greenwich Citizens Police Academy a d i v e r s e g r o u p o f t h e p o l i c e a n d t h e i r everything they do while on duty. w ife and k ids well. I i n m y l i f e t i m e , b o t h when it next becomes o f f i c e r s a n d l e a d e r s tremendous challenges. Chief Heavey has been very clear that he has requested body cameras in his budgets for the last Letter several years. Town officials have declined to fund that request stating the lack of need because of the By Julia Chiappetta m e n a n d w o m e n w i t h a experience first - hand every a n d u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f t h e department’s good community relations. purpose to protect, educate and aspect of law enforcement in amazing work being done and We have also, sadly, heard the young daughters of I have so much respect for guide us all through challenges a classroom, active patrol car, t he ser ious a nd da ngerous riding with the Marine Patrol, challenges they face. It is with a police officer friend of ours ask why everyone hates Greenwich Police Department. and safety in our town. T h e C i t i z e n ’ s P o l i c e mock ops with the Swat Team respect and gratitude that I Having rolled up my sleeves their father. People do not “hate” their father. He is a with many at the helm during A c a d e m y c o u r s e i s m u s t and a view of the impressive applaud Chief Heavy and the very well respected and respectful officer. entire force for caring about me v a r i o u s c a t a s t r o p h e s a n d f o r a n y o n e w a n t i n g a CSI vehicle. c a n d i d g l i m p s e i n s i d e t h e I propose that all residents and all of us as they do. storms as a volunteer in the This is why dialogue is important, because when Emergency Operations Center. inner work ings of what the e n r o l l i n t h i s p r o g r a m , the protests drown out the dialogue, we all suffer. Very Julia Chiappetta, Julia T h i s i s a w e l l - o i l e d f o r c e magnitude of coverage and day made ava i la ble by GPD for little was reported last week about the female New c ompr i s e d of out st a nd i n g , to day at GPD. Chiappetta Consulting, LLC; everyone. It surely afforded member of the Board of Health H e r e y o u w i l l l e a r n / me a deeper appreciation York City police officer, who was African American, compassionate, professional and who was shot in the head while sitting in her police car. They arrested an individual for the shooting Letter who was also African American. The police profession across the country is being By Karen Johnson the GPD to create excellent aggressive party crashers as I to be volunteer firefighters. If portrayed as dishonorable. They are not. In Greenwich animal shelters. have witnessed on more than you have a serious problem in one occassion. Greenwich, chances are, they An education is considered W h e n I f i r s t a r r ive d i n our police department works very hard to be “of” the In Greenwich, volunteering will be a part of saving your life Greenwich, thirty years ago now, a vital part of one's life. Reading community, not apart from it. I got pulled over on the Post Road and supporting local bookstores to h e lp o t h e r s i s a p a r t o f and I guarantee you that they We applaud many of those attending the protests near Christ Church coming into and our local libraries is an almost everyone's life and is will not care about your religion, essential and valued part of our a required element of most skin color, language, or ethnic and vigils. Our country was founded on Freedom town going fifty miles an hour. The officer could not have community. You will find plain school curriculums. You will background. They will risk their of Speech and Freedom of Assembly. They are the been more polite. I received a clothes police officers keeping find the GPD volunteering, in lives to save yours. cornerstones of our Constitution and there are many well deserved lecture about the watch on these kids centric particular at the Boys and Girls The GPD is an incredibly who need to know that others stand with them. fact that in Greenwich, speeding places to protect our children Club, during their free time professional, kind, connected We especially applaud Chief Heavey and his on the Post Road was not okay. in what are natural predator and on holidays and vacations group of men and women and and helping raise money at I've been getting whiplash going In the past thirty years, I've magnets. command staff for creating a place in Greenwich In Greenwich, one of the swimathons and other similar from signs that read "thank you discovered that in Greenwich a where protests can happen safely and protestors great many things are not okay. few places in the country where events. to our first responders" to signs organized religion is growing, our In Greenwich, hiking and that read "abolish the police." Teenagers driving drunk, concerns are heard. They are working to create a This k ind of reactionary houses of worship are important birdwatching and caring for not okay, which is why the dialogue where everyone’s voice can be heard and Greenwich Police Department for both their spiritual work and our natural world is on most b e h a v i o r i s n o t o k a y i n where every concern can be addressed. Thank has been a strong supporter of as gathering places for thousands people's to do lists and scouting Greenwich and it is incredibly of other community wide events, is a big part of the community. disappointing. you, Chief, for getting to the “root” of the issue. One Safe Rides. My sign will continue to say Cr ue lt y to a n i m a l s , not often including a police presence GPD Chief of Police Jim Heavey thing we can be certain of in these uncertain times happens to be a troop leader and thank you GPD and I mean it. to help guide traffic and keep We love dogs... and all - our police department is here to protect every tolerated. Not just when convenient, but pets. Our own residents have people safe crossing busy streets, lifelong scouting volunteer. citizen in Greenwich. He and his son also happen over the long term. stepped up with support from in parking lots, and dealing with

Respect and Gratitude

Thank you GPD

Letter

The Best Interest of the Community

By Rick Kral During this challenging period of unrest in our nation and the world, I am conflicted to find the balance for those heroes that were on the front lines of the COVID battle and now face the ire of the public. The police force, wait we should not use the word “force” anymore? Ok the Law Enforcement Agency oh no, that does

Letter

not work. Police Department – ok the Police Department in the Town of Greenwich has been and always will be the pride of the community. Our streets, waterways, schools, neighborhoods are all safe and well protected thanks to the commitment of the fine officers and administration that comprise our Towns police department. I am a resident of Greenwich

for over 25 years. During that time, it has been my privilege to have worked with and for many different members of the Police Department. I can honestly say that every officer, administrator or chief has always had the best interest and safety of the community at heart. At this time, our officers need our support and understanding. Yes, there are things that need to change but not under

duress. Positive change comes from calm minds and constructive input. When you have the opportunity, thank an officer for their duty and encourage them to remain proud of the career they have chosen. Our country needs to be sure we are able to recruit the very best to keep our communities safe. Be safe, be well.

An Example for Others to Follow

We are so fortunate to have a police force, i n w h i c h t h e y d e f e n d a n d p r o t e c t o u r under the direction of Chief Heavey, that community. In reading Nancy Burke's commentary, can stand up and reflect the best ethical and They do set an example for other my reaction is that one bad situation, does moral Standards of any police facility. municipalities to follow. not reflect the status of the bigger picture. We should honor and respect the manner

By Sally Parris

Opinion

Disgrace and Danger

By Reverge Anselmo "A nation that prefers disgrace to danger is prepared for a Master, and deserves one." Alexander Hamilton In Hungary a certain mayor of a town insisted when he passed, walking by, the citizens he came upon should kneel, and when kneeling, hold open their mouths, so he could spit in their mouths. That they did, and that he did. You can check that in the writings of Faludi. Ask yourself if that could be you.

Returning to the simple facts of life; If you have no courage to offer to yourself or to display to others, you have no freedom, and cannot be given it. The only time one kneels is for the moment of one's execution, which is appropriate since one is praying to God then. Anyone who kneels and is not executed is a craven wretch before their adversary and deserves every expression of contempt. The very act goes into eternity with the coward wearing a cape of shame, which only the intercession from Heaven, of a soldier killed in battle is able to remove, if he should will. If you cover your face, you're a coward. If you

advertise your fear of sickness wounds or death, then your sickness wounds or death are not accidents or trials, you earned them as rewards. If you cannot face a danger and be recognized, exactly what do you think you amount to? If you can't show your face to the sun and to the air you breathe, what do you think your face is the face of? You are going to die, and no government or doctor is going to prevent it, and it's not up to you when that happens or how. The man who was born to hang will never drown. Take the diaper off your mouth, stand up and be seen, unafraid.

GreenwichSentinel.com/subscribe or mail a check for $149 to Greenwich Sentinel, Box 279, Greenwich, CT 06836 SUBSCRIBER DELIVERY ISSUES & REQUESTS Thomas@maninmotionllc.com or call 203-515-2288 EVENTS Editor@GreenwichSentinel.com

Opinion

It’s Not Enough Not to be Racist: We Must Do More By Marek Zabriesk There are now two viruses shutting down and affecting our nation and taking lives. One is coronavirus and the other is structural racism. We must fight both viruses. Coronavirus has taken over 100,000 American lives. Structural racism has taken countless lives over more than four centuries. In order to minimize the deaths of Covid-19, we came together as a nation and took extreme measures. We must do the same to save even more lives from structural racism. Coronavirus is a pulmonary disease; that is, it affects your lungs and in severe cases you need help to breathe. In Minnesota, George Floyd called out sixteen times “I can’t breathe.” A police officer tried to get a pulse for George Floyd but couldn’t detect one. But the knee remained on George’s neck for two more minutes. On Saturday, protesters in Greenwich, we were invited to take a knee for the same amount of time that a knee was on George Floyd’s neck. It seemed like an eternity. We are 30 years out after Rodney King was brutally bludgeoned by police in LA, and it feels as though we’re back to where we started. While our economy has progressed, our nation has regressed to the 1960s in terms of our moral compass, civil unrest, police brutality, injustice, and division across our country. We are watching the largest number of people protesting in decades. This is a crucible moment that begs for change, moral clarity, signif icant action, and effective leadership. We must choose the way of love and act to end racism. The black average household net worth has not

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increased in seventy years in our country while the average white household net worth has soared. A black person is three times more likely to be shot for a crime. Black Americans were nearly oneand-a-half times more likely to be unarmed before their death. 10% of all black men in their 30s are incarcerated at any given time. Over 100,000 Americans have died from Covid-19 and African Americans have been much more likely to be affected by coronavirus. African Americans make up 13% of the US population but possess only 2.6% of our nation’s wealth. Black Americans with a college education earn only two/thirds of what whites with only a high school diploma earn. These are signs of systemic racism. What Africans Americans are calling out for is to be treated by police and by others just as whites are treated. Is that too much to ask? Is that wrong to demand? If you were born black, would you want anything less? But they are so often denied. In my last parish, I knew a lot of white men who are shocked and appalled by the idea of an athlete disrespecting the American flag by kneeling during the national anthem. But I wonder are they sufficiently appalled by a white man kneeling on a black man’s neck. A lot of us say, “I don’t see color.” We need to see color. We need to see and acknowledge the pain that color bears and the history that comes with it. It’s no longer enough to say, “I try not to be racist.” We must do more. Whites must demand equality for African Americans. For years, blacks have marched alone, spoken out alone and cried alone. We must stand in solidarity and demand change.

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In these past weeks, some police commanders have spoken with protesters and listened to them, shown them respect and empathy and even knelt with them. The protesters listen to them and respect them. This kind of leadership can unite us. If there’s going to be lasting change, it will only come if all of us take time to listen, stand up, challenge our peers to act differently and work with African Americans for justice. The President recently held up a Bible. The Good Book calls for social justice, caring for widows, orphans, immigrants, prisoners and the poor. The good news is that there are signs of hope. Ella Jones was elected the first black mayor and first female mayor of Ferguson, Missouri, six years after Michael Brown was killed by the police. In Dec 2014 only 33% of Americans thought that blacks were unfairly treated by police. This June, the number had risen to 57%. All four of the officers involved in killing George Floyd have been arrested. Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, said, “There is so much room for hope because young people are in the street, and they have hope for a better America.” As a community, we need to actively and persistently commit to dismantling white supremacy, have conversations about our individual internalized racism, and examine how white supremacy is part of the architecture of our community. Thoreau said, “Be not simply good – be good for something.” We’re being called as a nation to pivot from being “good” people to being good for something beyond ourselves. Ibram X. Kendi wrote, “It’s not enough to be ‘not racist’; one has to be anti-racist. And that feels most possible, most fruitful, and most liberating, when

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done in community.” Jesus always called humans to choose the way of love, not the way of fear. It takes courage to choose the way of love. It’s a weak person who chooses the way of fear, to bully or dominate for that is always a mask for insecurity and fear. Fear not, says God over and over and over again in the Bible for I am with you. Our nation has been rocked by the needless and brutal death of one man, and by the needless and brutal death of one man we must unite to heal and reform our nation. By the Rev. Marek P. Zabriskie, Rector of Christ Church Greenwich

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Page 8 | Greenwich Sentinel

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

LOCAL CALENDAR

Eversource will begin installing a utility/pedestrian bridge over Davis Mill Pond in Bruce Park, as part of the underground portion of the Greenwich Substation and Line Project. The project is scheduled to take place through June 21. 7 a.m. Greenwich Audubon Center: Dawn Chorus Livestream - join naturalist Ryan MacLean to hear morning birdsongs live. Birders of all ages and experience levels are welcome. facebook.com/ GreenwichAudubonCenter 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Balance and Focus through Tai Chi - via Zoom (zoom. us/j/6114505034). Consider donating $10/class to charity. First Congregational Church of Old Greenwich or text message FCCOG TaiChi to 73265. 9:45 a.m. Voluntary Food Scrap Recycling Pilot ribbon-cutting ceremony, with First Selectman Fred Camillo. Holly Hill Transfer Station drop-off site (adjacent to the trash building). 10 a.m. Online Qigong Class with Greenwich’s Donna Bunte of Donna Bunte Whole Health. Via Zoom. (Every Friday). Classes are also available on facebook.com/donnabuntewholehealth 10 - 11 a.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Senior Chinese Book Discussion Group. Via Zoom. Free. Register. 203-622-7920. ywang@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 10 - 10:30 a.m. Cos Cob Library: Virtual – Storytime with Ms. Ann. Toddlers and preschoolers (and their parents). Via Zoom. Free. Register. lmatthews@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced. info/signup/Calendar 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Get Your Schedule in Order with iCalendar. Free. Register. 203-625-6560. csherman@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 12 - 2 p.m. Board of Estimate & Taxation (BET) Special Meeting Webinar. (Webinar Password: 2894684). greenwichct.gov 3:45 - 4:15 p.m. Cos Cob Library: Virtual – World Music with Anitra. Free. Register to get link password. lmatthews@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar 4 - 5 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – YA Book Discussion Group (Grades 6-8). Free. Register. 203-622-7918. emorrissey@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 5 - 5:30 p.m. Greenwich Audubon Center: Meet the Animals Livestream - join in online to meet and learn about ambassador animals who live at the Audubon Center. facebook.com/ GreenwichAudubonCenter 7 - 8 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Family Book Trivia Night. Free. Register. econnell@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary. evanced.info/signup/Calendar 7 - 7:45 p.m. Greenwich Audubon Center: Sunset Session Livestream. facebook.com/GreenwichAudubonCenter 10 p.m. Alliance Française of Greenwich: ‘Café Franco-Américain’ Conversation in English and French. Free and open to all. RSVP for a Zoom link. (Native French speakers needed). sbenthal@ aol.com SATURDAY, JUNE 13 Virtual Connecticut Open House Day. CTvisit.com/ CTOpenHouseDay 9 a.m. Versailles Farms Summer Stand - open for the season. Versailles Farms, 56 Locust Rd. 203-862-0400. info@versaillesfarms.com. versaillesfarms.com 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Greenwich Farmers Market. 2 Horseneck Ln. (Every Sat. through December). (Shoppers are asked to wear masks and maintain social distance). 203-380-0580. gfm-ct@optimum.net. greenwichfarmersmarketct.com 10 a.m. Building Better Lives in Greenwich: The Ribbon-Cutting for Armstrong Court Phase I. RSVP. 203-869-0509, ext. 100. mmorris@greenwichhousing.org 10 - 10:30 a.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual Meditation Workshop. Free. 203-622-

7920. schan@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced. info/signup/Calendar 12 - 1 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - Creating Visual Stories & Games (Grades 6-10). Free. Register. 203-622-7918. emorrissey@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 1 - 2 p.m. Cos Cob Library: Virtual – Cloak and Dagger Book Club. Free. Adults. Register to get link password. 203-622-6883. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar

2 - 3 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - The Art of the Cottage Garden. Free. Register. 203-622-7948. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar SUNDAY, JUNE 14 3 p.m. Greenwich’s The Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists (CSOPA) presents ‘Faces of Pandemic Front Lines (FPFL)’ – Virtual Reception. Free registration and open to the public. Storefront Display begins June 19, at 170 Bedford St., Stamford. csopa.org/heroes.html MONDAY, JUNE 15 Voluntary Food Scrap Recycling Pilot Program launches. Although not required, starter kits, containing collection bins, compostable bags and a guide, are offered for sale to make food scrap recycling easier. To purchase a starter kit, contact: wastefreegreenwich@gmail.com or call 203-531-0006, or visit wastefreegreenwich.org

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10 - 10:30 a.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – STEAM storytime (Ages 3-5). Via Zoom. Free. Register. econnell@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar 10 - 11 a.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Answering the Tough Resume Questions’ - Are you ready to hit the job market postCoronavirus?. Free. Register. 203-625-6533. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 11 a.m. Retired Men’s Association of Greenwich webinar: Larry Kantor, Economist: “The Economy, Financial Markets and the Pandemic: Where Do We Go From Here?”. Free. Pre-registration required. info@greenwichrma.org. greenwichrma.org 11 a.m. Alliance Française of Greenwich: ‘Café Crème’ - Conversation en Français. Free and open to all. RSVP for a Zoom link. clairenegrin@gmail.com

10 a.m. NAMI-CAN Online Support Group – for parents and primary caregivers of children and adolescents, under age 21, with behavioral and emotional issues. Free. (3rd Mon of the month). Via Zoom, Meeting ID: 596 783 943, Password: 024327.

1:30 p.m. Alliance Française of Greenwich: Club de Lecture en Français. Free and open to all. RSVP for a Zoom link. vponslet@aol.com

10 a.m. Cavalier Ebanks Galleries: Online auction of fine art: paintings, sculpture and prints. 203-869-3664. contact@cavalierauctions. com. cavalierauctions.com 12 - 1 p.m. Greenwich Commission on Aging: “Now... How do I Tell Who the Bad Guys Are?” – A Senior Safety Program for the Quarantine Era and Beyond. Zoom.us/j/3032051305. Or call 929-205-6099 (and enter 3032051305#) 3:45 - 4:15 p.m. Cos Cob Library: Virtual – Summer Reading Kickoff with ScienceTellers: ‘Dragons: Return of the Ice Sorceress’. Free. Register to get link password. lmatthews@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar 5 - 6 p.m. Byram Shubert Library: Virtual – Yoga for Adults. Free. Register. 203-531-0426. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar 6:30 - 9 p.m. Board of Estimate & Taxation (BET) Meeting Webinar. (Webinar Password: 7053716). greenwichct.gov 7:30 p.m. Bedford Playhouse: ‘A Day In The Life’ with News12 Westchester’s Morning Reporter Lisa LaRocca. Via Zoom (Meeting ID# 816 3616 6256). Register. bedfordplayhouse.org/aday-in-the-life TUESDAY, JUNE 16 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Balance and Focus through Tai Chi - via Zoom (zoom. us/j/6114505034). Consider donating $10/class to charity. First Congregational Church of Old Greenwich or text message FCCOG TaiChi to 73265. 10 - 10:30 a.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Storytime (Toddlers & preschoolers). Free. Register. 203-622-7920. dsullivan@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 10 - 11 a.m. Greenwich Hospital Webinar: ‘Vocal Health for Anyone Who Talks, Laughs or Sings’. Via Zoom. Free. Registration is required (link will be distributed in advance of the session). 888-3059253. greenwichhospital.org/events 10 - 11 a.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - Weekly Job Search Accelerator Group. Free. Register. 203-622-7920. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar

12 - 1 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - SCORE Webinar: How to Use Instagram to Market Your Small Business. Free. Register. 203622-7920. ywang@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary. evanced.info/signup/Calendar 3 - 3:40 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Creative Writing Workshop with Newbery Honor Author Veera Hiranandani. Free. Register. 203622-7920. dsullivan@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary. evanced.info/signup/Calendar 5 - 6:30 p.m. Cos Cob Library: Virtual - New Yorker Stories Discussion Group. Free. Register to receive link password. 203-622-6883. lmatthews@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced. info/signup/Calendar

6:30 p.m. NAMI Southwest CT Online Family Support Group (Every Tuesday) – Peer-led support groups for family members of individuals living with mental health conditions. Free. Zoom Meeting: zoom.us/j/2084433181, or call: 1 646 558 8656, Meeting ID: 208 443 3181.

Powder Coated Finishes • Restrapping • Welding Sandblasting • Sling Replacement

9:30 a.m. Wednesdays@Whitby virtual conversations - learn about life at Whitby School. Register. Free. whitbyschool.org/viritualwednesdays-at-whitby

12 - 1:15 p.m. Cos Cob Library: Virtual – Brown Bag Book Group. Free. Register to receive link password. 203-622-6883. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar

5 - 9:30 p.m. Planning & Zoning Commission Virtual Zoom Meeting. 203622-7894. greenwichct.gov

Pick-up and Delivery Available

7 a.m. Greenwich Audubon Center: Dawn Chorus Livestream - join naturalist Ryan MacLean to hear morning birdsongs live. Birders of all ages and experience levels are welcome. (Wed & Sat during Spring). facebook.com/GreenwichAudubonCenter

9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - Adult Summer Reading Launches (Ages 18+). Free. sschugmann@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar

11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - Drop-in Computer Lab. Free. Register. 203-625-6560. trainingcenter@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar

Outdoor Furniture Restorations & Sales

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17

7 - 8 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Historic Houses of Worship in Greater Stamford and Greenwich. Free. Register. 203-622-7920. rhansen@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/ signup/Calendar 7 - 9 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Foreign Affairs Book Discussion Group. Free. Register to receive link password. 203-622-7924. ywang@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/ signup/Calendar 7:30 p.m. Bedford Playhouse: Author Event with Candace Bushnell. Via Zoom (Meeting ID# 842 5119 5876). Register. bedfordplayhouse. org

2:30 - 6 p.m. Old Greenwich Farmer’s Market. Parking lot of the Living Hope Community Church, 38 West End Ave. (Shoppers are asked to wear masks and maintain social distance). info@ oldgreenwichfarmersmarket.com. oldgreenwichfarmersmarket. com/index.html 5 - 6 p.m. Alliance Française of Greenwich: Focus on French Cinema (FFC) presents ‘Worldwide Wednesdays’ - each week FFC will recommend a French-language film that can be viewed online at home. Free and open to all. RSVP for a Zoom link. afgreenwich@ gmail.com 6:30 p.m. NAMI-CAN (Child and Adolescent Network) Online Support Groups - for parents and primary caregivers of children and adolescents, under age 21, with behavioral and emotional issues (Every Wed). Free. Zoom Meeting: zoom.us/j/2084433181, or call: 1 646 558 8656, Meeting ID: 208 443 3181. 7 p.m. St. Catherine’s Social Justice Committee’s ‘Dinner with a Cause’, benefiting Hope for Haiti. Via Zoom (zoom.us/j/99112279003). RSVP. socialjustice@stc-sta.org. For donations: hopeforhaiti. com 7:30 p.m. Bedford Playhouse: Classic Tuesdays with John Farr – ‘Bonnie and Clyde’. Via Zoom (Meeting ID# 844 7446 4725). Register. bedfordplayhouse.org 7 - 8 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - Date with an Author: Robert Kolker, Author of ‘Hidden Valley Road’. Free. Register. sschmidt@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar 7:30 p.m. ICC Greenwich Summer Camp Open House Registration - meet ICC’s Summer Staff and hear about the programs being offered. iccgreenwich.org 8 p.m. Girls With Impact’s Future Ready Workshops presents: ‘College App Q&A’ - everything you need to know about college applications - Online. For girls 14-17. Free. Register. girlswithimpact.org THURSDAY, JUNE 18 9 - 9:30 a.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual - Parent & Child Yoga for Tots (Ages 2-5). Free. Register. 203-622-7920. dsullivan@greenwichlibrary. org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Greenwich Art Society: Creating Art from Nature: Beginner and Intermediate, via Zoom. Thursdays, through June 18. Members, $315; nonmembers, $340. Register. greenwichartsociety.org 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – Spotlight on Apps: Libby. Free. Register. 203-6256560. csherman@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Cos Cob Library: Virtual – Qi Gong. Free. Register. lmatthews@greenwichlibrary. org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/ signup/Calendar 12 - 1 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – SCORE Webinar: ‘How to Negotiate with Impact’. Free. Register. 203-622-7920. ywang@ greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary. evanced.info/signup/Calendar 1 - 2 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – ‘Pivot with Purpose Panel’. Free. Register. 203-6256533. mmartin@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 1 - 2 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – SCORE Webinar: ‘Protect Your Business from Fraud. Free. Register. 203-6227920. ywang@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar 2 - 3 p.m. Greenwich Hospital Webinar: ‘Reducing Risk Factors for Heart and Lung Disease’. Via Zoom. Free. Registration is required (link will be distributed in advance of the session). 888-305-9253. greenwichhospital.org/events 7 - 8 p.m. Byram Shubert Library: Virtual: Women Suffrage in Greenwich and Beyond’. Free. Register. 203-531-0426. greenwichlibrary. evanced.info/signup/Calendar 7:30 - 9 p.m. Greenwich Library: Virtual – A Night Out with Friends: Shakespeare: From Page to Stage. Free. Register. 203-6227919. dsalm@greenwichlibrary.org. greenwichlibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar ONGOING • Children’s Book Drive: The Westhill Angels, a group of high school student volunteers, have organized a contactless children’s book drive to be distributed to the families of Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County (CLC) as well as some of the children of hospital workers, who are temporarily being cared for and educated at CLC by some of the teachers. Books will be picked up from the bottom of the donor’s driveway by the Westhill Angel volunteers. lorymaz17@gmail.com. clcfc.org • Document Greenwich – Covid-19: Help the Greenwich Historical Society document this extraordinary time in history as they collect materials, photos and stories that speak to our shared experience during the coronavirus pandemic. Photographs, journal entries, letters, emails, Instagram posts, news clippings, poetry or reflections on the sense of isolation, uncertainty, hope, gratitude, unanticipated joy, or fear paint a picture of the human experience in this unprecedented time. The Historical Society’s archival collection will tell a story of life in Greenwich in 2020 - tell them yours. Visit greenwichhistory.org/ upload-image

• Nominate a ‘ Treasured Tree’ - The Greenwich Tree Conservancy wants to know if you have a ‘Treasured Tree’ on your property. A tree is treasured for many reasons: a special memory or story; magnificent size; unique shape; Spring flowers or Fall foliage; climb-ability. The Tree Conservancy wants to hear about YOUR Treasured Tree. Fill out the nomination form available at: greenwichtreeconservancy.org • Starter Kits containing collection bins and compostable bags continue to be offered for sale to prepare the community for the launch of the Town Food Scrap Pilot Program. To arrange delivery and payment of kits, residents should contact wastefreegreenwich@gmail. com or call Greenwich Green & Clean at 203-531-0006. For further information about the program and kit sales, visit wastefreegreenwich.org THROUGH JUNE 15 • The Walk to End Epilepsy. Through June 15, walkers can join the Virtual Walk to support epilepsy efforts in Connecticut. Register at epilepsyct.com/walk/register. php • The Bruce Museum Junior Art Competition 2020: ‘Seeing and Feeling During the Pandemic’ - for children in grades Kindergarten through grade 8. Using the prompt, “What do you see and feel during this time of pandemic?” the art competition asks kids to use their creativity to share their unique experiences during this unprecedented health crisis. Artwork can be created in any medium, with one submission per artist. Artwork can be submitted electronically as one (1) image per twodimensional work or two (2) images for three-dimensional pieces via email to jrartcomp@brucemuseum.org THROUGH JULY 3 Greenwich Historical Society’s ‘This Place Matters!’ photo contest. The community is encouraged to participate by snapping photos of the many ways Greenwich residents and institutions are rising to the occasion in the midst of the pandemic. Submit them with a brief statement about why they show the best of Greenwich during this pandemic. Submit photos to: greenwichhistory.org. Deadline for submissions is July 3. (Photos should be high resolution – 300 dpi – to be winners). The top three photos will be published in Greenwich Magazine and displayed at the Greenwich Historical Society’s newly reimagined campus. ONLINE ALANON MEETINGS Saturdays 9:30 - 10 a.m. AlAnon Newcomers. 10 - 11:30 a.m. AlAnon. al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings/electronicmeetings ONLINE AA MEETINGS Daily 9 p.m. 12 Step Study Group of AA - a recurring discussion in the format of a book study. No prior experience required. Open meeting. Zoom video chat. Zoom id: 799-468-887, Password: 156760. aaebookguy@gmail.com. aa-intergroup. org/directory.php Sundays 3 p.m. AA A New Hope Online - a Big Book Study format. Open meeting. zoom. us/j/117872240, passcode: 121314. inboundmed@gmail.com. aa-intergroup. org/directory.php

BY PHONE Last Tuesday of the Month 7:30 p.m. Home Meeting of AA - discussion group with a 20-minute speaker. No computer needed however long distance charges may apply. Call: 978-990-5000, then enter pin: 426546 Hole In The Sk y AA Meeting Schedule 25 online/virtual meetings per week at the Hole In The Sky, 7 days a week through the Zoom Platform with video, audio and call in options. Rotating formats that include speaker, participation and mixed meetings: Monday to Friday: AA Spiritual Discussion, 6:45pm PST. zoom.us/j/705311870 Monday & Friday: AA Big Book Study, 12pm PST. zoom.us/j/867060088 Tuesday & Saturday: 12&12 Book Study, 12pm PST. zoom.us/j/295712428 Wednesday: Living Sober Book Study, 12pm PST. zoom.us/j/295712428 Wednesday: Beginner’s Workshop, 6pm PST. zoom.us/j/609275263 Wednesday: Candlelight Meeting, 8pm PST. zoom.us/j/659596548 Thursday: Secular AA Meeting, 12pm PST. zoom.us/j/295712428 Thursday: Grapevine Meeting, 6pm PST. zoom.us/j/282018390 Friday: Daily Reflections Meeting, 6pm PST. zoom.us/j/137609502 Friday: West Valley Speaker Meeting, 7:30pm PST. zoom.us/j/514586368 Saturday: Sobriety Speaks Out Speaker/ Participation Meeting, 6pm PST. zoom. us/j/980772892 Sunday: Big Book Study Meeting, 12:30pm PST. zoom.us/j/787468826 Sunday: Sunday Meeting at HITS, 4:30pm PST. zoom.us/j/831719356 Email contact: holeinthesk y.zoom@ gmail.com

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OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS TUESDAY, JUNE 16 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Clay Art Center Virtual Program: ‘Tealight Candle Holder’ (Ages 7+). Via Zoom. Register. $18 per child, Clay Kits $4 each. (Curbside clay pickup available at Clay Art Center). clayartcenter.org THURSDAY, JUNE 18

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7:30 p.m. VOICES Webinar: ‘Creating Emotional, Psychological and Relationship Resilience’. Free and open to the public. Registration is required. voicesofseptember11.org

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ART CLASSES Rowayton Arts Center (RAC) is offering two new weekly art classes via Zoom for children in Kindergarten through 5th grade, taught by Muffy Pendergast. Any extra supplies will be delivered to homes on a weekly basis. Starting the week of May 18, there will be a class for Kindergarten through 2nd grade on Tuesdays, 1-2pm and a class for 3rd to 5th grade, 4:30-5:30pm. Register at rowaytonarts.org/youth-classes-andworkshops CURTAIN CALL - Streaming Curtain Call is streaming past productions for free. Using the Vimeo platform, anyone with the link can see the library of 15 shows that have been added, and more will be added on a regular basis. A second channel features several original musicals and two plays. Here’s how to view these past shows: vimeo.com/channels/CCSOG (for Shakespeare) and vimeo.com/ channels/CCLIVE for the others.

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Obituaries

Page 10 | Greenwich Sentinel

Obituaries, for which there is never a (McCormick) McKiernan. Bank, 24 Route 39, New Fairfield, CT 06812. charge or fee of any kind, may be submitted Robert was born in Houston, TX to with photos to Editor@GreenwichSentinel. Patricia Schmidt McKiernan of Southbury, In addition to the family obituary, the com. CT and the late Robert Paul McKiernan. Greenwich Police Department issued the

Lieutenant James Fahy Lieutenant James Fahy passed away at about 9:00 pm on Wednesday evening from complications following a stoke several months ago. He received a Greenw ich Police Department honor guard and a bagpiper to take him to the funeral home. Arrangements are pending. Lieutena nt Fa hy had a long a nd distinguished career with the Greenwich Police Department. He is the only a officer to receive of the Greenwich Police Department medal of honor, which he received for saving the life of a Connecticut state trooper in 1976 who was under fire from three arm subjects on I-95 at a toll. According to a story in the New York Ti mes fol low ing the incident, a state policemen and a Fahy were involved in a brief but intense gunfight, trading at least a dozen shots with three heavily armed suspects, killing two. That was the last time since 1976 that a Greenwich Police Officer has taken the life of another human being in the line of duty. Please see the Sentinel website and next week's issue for a the full obituary.

Robert McKiernan

Robert Daniel McKiernan, age 49, of New Fairfield, CT, passed away on June 6, 2020. He was the husband of Mary Abigail

Rob went to high school at Windham High School in Willimantic, CT, and graduated from Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, with a degree in Justice and Law. Robert served his country honorably as a Marine, and served in the Persian Gulf. He was with the Greenwich Police Department for 23 years, on an FBI Task Force for the last 7 years and retired as a Detective in February, 2020. He was highly decorated for his work in law enforcement. Rob was the recipient of the CT U.S. Attorney's Office Task Force Officer of the Year and the CT State Police Medal for Outstanding Service. He was known in his department, not only as a great detective, but also as a great friend. Rob's bravery in his military and in his work is only surpassed by his deep love for his family. His boys and his lovely wife, Abby, were everything to him. He spent summers in Cape Cod with his family, his mother, and his sister, Kelly, and her family, soaking up every second of love and togetherness. Rob will be remembered as a fantastic storyteller, with a twinkle in his eye. He could always be relied upon to stay calm under pressure, and he had a warm and witty sense of humor. Robert faced his illness with great courage, and passed peacefully, surrounded by family. Besides his wife and mother, survivors include his sons: Sean, Ben, and John. His sister, Kelly, and her children; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and even a great-niece and nephew (and his dog, Biscuit), all who adored him. A Memorial Gathering for Rob will be held for all friends and family once large gatherings are safe again. A Graveside Service with full military honors will be conducted at the State Veterans Cemetery at Middletown, CT on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at 1:15 p.m. Due to cemetery regulations and state guidelines, all those attending must observe social distancing. In lieu of f lowers, contributions in Rob's memory for an educational trust for his children may be made to the Mary A. McKiernan, Trustee, c/o Union Savings

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Chief James Heavey regrets to announce the death of recently retired Detective Robert McKiernan. Detective McKiernan began his twenty-three-year career with the Greenwich Police Department on April 14, 1997, and retired in February of this year. He was 49 years old. Born in Connecticut on June 13, 1970, Detective McKiernan served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1988 to 1992, where he achieved the rank of Corporal. While in the USMC, he served as an Aircrew/ D o or Gu n ner on CH- 4 6E hel icopter s while deployed to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm, West Africa, and the Mediterranean. Detective McKiernan graduated from Western Connecticut State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Justice and Law Administration in 1996. Detective McKiernan's career included assignments as Patrol Officer, Accident Car Investigator, Neighborhood Resource Officer (now known as Community Impact Officer), a nd Detective. In 201 2 he was crossdeputized as a federal agent and assigned as a Task Force Officer for an FBI Financial Crimes Task Force in New Haven, CT. He received the GPD Chief 's Commendation five times, was GPD Officer of the Month three times, and received a Medal for Outstanding Service from the Connecticut State Police. In 2007, then Neighborhood Resource O f f icer McK ier na n w a s aw a r de d t he Greenwich Lions Club, Dr. John Clarke Pol ic e O f f ic er of t he Ye a r aw a r d for t he excel lent work he a nd h is fel low off icers completed that year to improve the Greenw ich com mu n it y. From the Connecticut U.S. Attorney's Of f ice, he received four Awards of Recognition and was designated the Task Force Officer of the Year in 2016. Chief Heavey said, "Detective McKernan's passion for seeking out the truth for victims of crime was second to none. Detective McKiernan exemplif ied the core values of the Greenwich Police Department with his dedication, diligence, service, fairness, and respect to everyone he encountered". He is sur v ived by his w ife and three sons. We join all members of the Depar tment in ex tending our sincere sympathy to the McKiernan family.

Lucy Day

We are here to provide heartfelt care to those who grieve.

134 Hamilton Avenue

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Lucy Day died peacefully June 5, 2020 at her home in Palm Beach, Fla., at age 76, surrounded by family. The cause of death was pancreatic cancer. She is survived by her husband Nathaniel Day and their daughters E.V. Day (Ted Lee) of Brooklyn NY and Annabelle Day of San Francisco CA. Lucy was born in Chicago, Ill. on April 2, 1944, the only child of William Harris Reals M.D. and Lucile Farnsworth Reals. She held a bachelor's degree from the University of Chicago and a master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania, both in Anthropology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; American Archeology. After work on archeological sites and for museums, she had a career in finance and commodities and held a Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Upon retirement she had a rewarding life as a volunteer in Greenwich, CT. She

served as board chairman of three nonprofit organizations and was a founder of the Breast Cancer Alliance. An enthusiastic gardener, she was a judge for the Garden Club of America for more than twenty years. At their home in Greenwich she developed a renowned topiary garden which she and her husband donated to the Berkshire Botanical Garden in Stockbridge Massachusetts. It was physically moved there in October 2018 and comprises "Lucy's Garden." Her love, generosity, and sense of humor brought such joy to her friends and family, and she will be greatly missed. Memorial services, dates to be announced, will be held at The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea Palm Beach, FL; Christ Church Greenw ich CT; and St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church Gustavia, St. Barthelemy, F.W.I. In lieu of f lowers please consider a donation to breastcancera lliance.org, berkshirebotanical.org, or the nonprofit of your choice.

Francis Murphy

Francis Xavier Murphy, 56, of Greenwich and Noank, CT passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at Greenwich Hospital due to complications from ALS. Born on April 8, 1964 in Mount Vernon, NY, he was the son of the late John P. and Amy (McKay) Murphy. Frank attended Stepinac High School, was a 1991 graduate of Iona College, and received an MBA from The S.C. Johnson College of Business at Cornell University. He enjoyed a career in finance for many years, predominantly at A.G. Edwards. He was an avid sailor, and enjoyed f ishing, f light training, and many other outdoor activities, but his favorite moments were those spent with his children. He taught them how to sail, took them crabbing and fishing in Noank, and passed his love of the ocean on to them. His love of music, which he also shared with his children, led him to attend concerts across many genres with friends and family. He especially looked forward to the annual Greenwich Town Party every year. He is survived by his children, Dennis, Gavin, and Annie Murphy, their mother Melissa Liebre, and his dear friend Emily Glodek, both of whose friendship and support have been invaluable. Frank is also survived by his four brothers, John (Betsy) of Eastchester NY, Brian (Laura) of Bronxville NY, Paul (Marilyn) of Manhasset NY, and Jim of Brooksville FL; eight nieces and nephews; and numerous cousins and close friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Eileen. The Murphy family would like to thank the staff at Greenwich Hospital for the care and comfort they provided to Frank and the family during his final days. The family received friends on Sunday, June 7 at Leo P. Gallagher & Sons Funeral Home, Greenwich. Services and burial will be private.

Walter Camp On May 3, 2020, Walter A. Camp, M.D. took his final glance at this world and died peacefully in his sleep just days before his 88th birthday. His adventurous life and celebrated medical career took him from a small farm in rural Springfield, MO to Greenwich, CT where he lived and worked most of his life. After graduating from Emory University School of Medicine, he completed a medical residenc y at Un iversit y of Ok la homa Medical Center and neurology residencies at New York Hospital and the National Institutes of Health. A fellowship at the National Institutes of Health completed his formal education, but, as his favorite doctor Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wrote, "education never ends... It is a series of lessons with the greatest for last."

During his long career at Greenwich Hospital he served as Chief of Medicine from 1977-1992. Teaching was a cherished part of his career and he held academic positions at Howard, Yale, and Cornell Universities. Those who studied under him recall how he humbly referred to himself as a simple country doctor that constantly emphasized the importance of Sherlock Holmes-like logic rooted in observation and compassionate communication with patients. Away from work he yearned to recreate the wilderness of his childhood. As a member of Preston Mountain Club he wandered, fished, and found solace in the pristine woods of Kent, CT for over 40 years. Much of that time was spent on the porch of a rustic cabin overlooking a lake, binoculars up to his eyes ever-searching for birds, weird clouds, and anything beautiful. He was preceded in death by his third wife, Mary "Mimi" Carlin Camp, and two sons, Brett Andrew Camp and Matthew Francis Camp. He is sur v ived by his children from two previous marriages - Mark Camp, Cindy Koshak, Thaddeus Camp, and Melinda Caltabiano; stepchildren Richard (R.A.) McDonough, John McDonough, Creighton (Craig) McDonough, Carlin McDonough; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In lieu of f lowers, please consider making a donation in his memory to the Greenwich Hospital Foundation - giving. greenhosp.org/giving/give-now/

Barnes of Connecticut and second cousins, Madison and Amber McCulloch, Patricia Alleva of Connecticut and second cousins Dominic and Anthony Alleva, and Laura Radisic of New Jersey and second cousins Becca, Caela and Lexi Radisic, and his beloved dog, Charlie. He was predeceased by his father, maternal grandparents, Lucy and Samuel Austen and paternal grandparents, Harold and Marie Bonvenuto, and also his Aunt Elizabeth (Austen) Barnes. Harold enjoyed all winter sports and loved a good snowstorm. It wasn't even until recently that he considered moving to Florida to be with his family. He was loved by everyone who knew him and was one of the kindest souls on this earth. Due to the current pandemic services w ill be scheduled at a later date and arrangements will be handled by Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home.

Richard Farley

Laurie Jean K imbell Blaney of Greenwich, CT passed away at Yale New Haven Hospital on May 20, 2020 at the age of 61. Bor n i n Sta m ford, CT, on Dec. 31, 1960. Laurie was the daughter of the late Leroy Kimbell and Ann Pero Kimbell. She received her education in Stamford, CT, and went on to do secretarial work. Laurie was not only hard working and diligent, but she also became the proud mother of a daughter, Christine Kimbell Cayo. Later in life, she married a kind-hearted and thoughtful gentleman, named Bruce Blaney, and resided in the Stamford and Norwalk, CT area. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Eli Cayo II; her brothers, Gary and David; her six grandchildren; her Aunt Sue and Uncles, Pat and John; cousins; other extended family members; as well as many dear friends. She was loved by everyone who came in contact with her, and will remain in our hearts forever. Arrangements were made with the Nichola s F. Co g ne t t a F u ne ra l Hom e and Crematory and with Spring Grove Cemetery in Darien, CT. The services for Laurie will be private.

Patricia McDermott

Richard C. Farley (Derry, NH) born in Greenwich, CT passed away at age 63 on June 3, 2020. Richard grew up in Riverside. He was a 1976 graduate of Greenwich High School and captain on the Cardinals football team. He attended Embry Riddle Aeronautical Un iver sit y pu r su i ng h i s p a s sion for aeronautics after earning his private pilot license. He was also a volunteer, along with his brothers, on the Sound Beach Fire Dept. After his family moved from Riverside, Richard eventually settled in Derry, NH with his wife Ann in their log cabin home which they shared for 23 years. He spent hours in his workshop that he called skunkworks, tinkering MacGyverstyle on endless projects. He became an accomplished woodworker making special gifts and custom furniture. Richard also enjoyed years of boating on Long Island Sound and the lakes of New Hampshire. During his career Richard worked for several area companies in sales and supply chain management involving high tech and robotics products. Richard was predeceased by his parents James A. Farley and Louise Toomey Farley, and his siblings Barbara Farley Gustin and Thomas Farley (who sadly passed on the same day). He is survived by his wife Ann Tofuri Farley, his mother-in-law Ann Gonsalves, siblings-in-law Wayne Tofuri and Maryellen Gonsalves (Robert) and Ronna Farley, and his siblings Linda Farley Noone (Steve) of Acton, MA and Jay Farley (Charlene) of Fairfield, CT. He will also be missed by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Due to Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions services were private.

Maurice O'Connor

Janet Zaccagnino

Janet Sementini Zaccagnino passed away at the age of 94 on May 30, 2020 after suffering with Alzheimer's disease for many years. She was born in Stamford, CT on March 9, 1926 and lived in Stamford her whole life. She was the daughter of Thaddeus and Rose Genovese Sementini of Stamford. She was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Anthony Zaccagnino i n O c tob er 2 019, her si ster Ca r mela Castelluzzo, her brother Louis Sementini. She is survived by her daughter Rosanna Zaccagnino of Stamford, son and daughterin-law Anthony and Torrina Zaccagnino of Old Greenwich, brother-in-law Nicholas Zaccag n ino a nd sisters-in-law Grace Zaccagnino and Jane Sementini. Janet was a much beloved wife and mother and one of the kindest people you could ever know. She was loved by all the children growing up in her neighborhood over the years and would still receiving letters from many long after they had moved away. After her children where grown she worked for 25 years in the office at the Bi-Cultural Day School in Stamford where she made many friendships. The family would like to extend their thanks and gratitude to Laurie Pensiero from Osbourne Home Healthcare, and Janet's care givers Keisha Purcell and Mercy Womoakor who cared for her with such love and compassion for the past 2 years. We are so grateful to all of you for all the love you showed her. Due to the current circumstances a celebration of Janet's life will be held at a later date and burial will be private. Arrangements have been made through Lacerenza Funeral Home. Donations may be made in Janet's memory to Curtain Call, 1349 Newf ield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905. curtaincallinc. com

John Elwood

Harold Bonvenuto, III

Harold A. Bonvenuto III, 49, passed away suddenly on Monday, June 1, 2020. He was born on July 25, 1970 at Greenwich Hospita l. He was t he b elove d son of Barbara and the late Harold Bonvenuto, Jr. H e i s s u r v i ve d by h i s s o n Ja m e s Anthony Bonvenuto, his mother and his sister, Kimberly of Florida, and sister Lori Carrillo and his brother Michael Bonvenuto of California. He is also survived by his Au nt Luc y A llen a nd Stua r t A llen of Florida, and his Uncle Richard Barnes of Florida, and three cousins, Danielle

He is sur v ived by three lov ing children, Michael O'Connor Sr. (Mary Ann), of Riverside, John O'Connor (Lisa), of Cos Cob, and his daughter Darlene Raiente (Carmine) also of Cos Cob. His grandchildren Krystle O'Connor (Philip), Michael O'Connor Jr. (Kelsey), Patrick O'Connor (Lauren), William O'Connor, (Christy) Kaitly n R aiente, and Shane O'Connor. He was blessed to have had 2 great-grandchildren, Philip Junior who was a part of his life for 4 years, and his second great grandson, Seamus Patrick O'Connor, joyfully entered the world only a few hours after Moe passed. He will be placed by his wife's side for eternity during a private family service at St. Mary's Cemetery in Greenwich.

Laurie Blaney

Jose Suarez

Jose F. Suarez passed away peacefully at Greenwich Hospital on May 20, 2020 at the age of 77 due to complications from Covid-19. He was born on October 11, 1942 in Antilla, Cuba where he lived with his family before they moved to the United States. He was a long time resident of Port Chester, NY. He was predeceased by his parents Juan and Emelina Suarez. He is survived by his sister and brother Irene Suarez and Oscar Suarez of Port Chester, NY; niece Kirsten Suarez of Port Chester, NY & nephew Oscar Suarez and wife Debbie of Terryville, CT; as well as many cousins and extended family. Jose was always known to be f ixing something. People said,” there wasn’t anything that he couldn’t fix.” Jose also enjoyed going back to v isit Cuba and spending time there with friends and family. He w a s a n employe e t he Tow n of Greenwich for 40 years where he worked as a maintenance mechanic until his passing. Jose was loved by many friends, coworkers, and family and will be deeply missed. We would like to thank the staff at Greenwich Hospital for their tireless efforts and support during this difficult time. A memorial service to celebrate Jose’s life will be held at a later date.

soprano Marjorie Lawrence. Some of her solo work has included Handel's Messiah, Bach's Magnificat, Rossini's Stabat Mater, Verdi's Requiem, and the world premiere of Johann David Heinichen's Mass in F with the New England Baroque Soloists. The family request in lieu of f lowers, donations in memory of Lynette be sent to two choirs that she loved and were extremely supportive during her illness: Angel Choir, Greenwich, CT (angelchoir. org) or Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut (mendelssohnchoirofct.org) A memorial celebration of life service is planned and will be held in Greenwich, CT, date to be announced due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Patricia McDermott (Lynette Lyon) departed this life on Saturday, May 30 2020, at the age of 68 peacefully from T hy mu s C a n c e r at Ya l e Ne w H ave n Hospital. A resident of Greenwich, CT for the past 25 years, native born June 28, 1951 in New Orleans, La., preceded in death by both parents Albert and Gretchen McDermott. She leaves to cherish her memory, sisters Gail McDermott-Allen (Doran) of Zion, Ill., Rhonda of Garland, Texas, Lindarae McDermott of Oakland, Calif., brothers Albert McDermott (Jeannie/deceased) of Burnsville, Mn., Kevin McDermott of New Orleans, La., and a dear cousin Myron Johnson (Barbara) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Patricia (Lynette Lyon) graduated from Oberlin Conservatory of Music College an accomplished Opera soprano who sung throughout the United States and Europe. She has performed on Broadway and with groups such as the Norman Luboff Choir and in the Grabrowski Schweitzer Tournée Carmen Jones and Houston Grand Opera Company productions of Porg y and Bess and Treemonisha. She also sang in Revelations for the Alvin Ailey Dance Company. Ms. Lyon was a scholarship student of the late Metropolitan Opera

Maurice John O'Connor of Cos Cob, CT died peacefully at the age of 88 on May 31, 2020, surrounded by his loving family, and his devoted dog Benji. "Moe" was born April 11, 1932, to Henry and Beatrice O'Connor, in New Rochelle, N Y, late r s e t t l i n g i n Co s Cob. A f te r graduating from Greenwich High School, he began working in Grand Union, when at the age of 18 he was called to serve for two years in the Korean War. He returned to the grocery business, eventually joining the Grade A/ShopRite chain, working for the Cingari family. He was treated like family and stayed with them for more than thirty years until he retired at the age of 76. In 1959 he married Camille Mary Greco of Cos Cob. He was a devoted husband, father, son and son-in-law, always taking care of everyone. He was predeceased by his wife of nearly 60 years Camille, who passed in 2018. He also was pre-deceased by his parents Henry and Beatrice, his twin brother Desmond and his brother Francis.

John James Elwood was born in Port Chester, NY, on Aug. 11, 1943, to Delia (nee Duffy) and John J. Elwood, of Castlebar and Galway, Ireland. He was raised in Glenville, CT, alongside his younger brother, William. John attended Greenwich High School, and after earning his Bachelor's degree, went on to earn a Master's degree in Business Administration from the New York University Stern School of Business. Following his graduation from NYU, John joined the team at The Coca-Cola Company in Atlanta, Georgia. John's career at CocaCola spanned thirty-three years, three countries (USA, Korea and Japan), and culminated in his retirement as the Senior Vice President of Coca-Cola Japan. John loved his 26 years in Japan, where he met his beloved wife, Satoko Matsuoka Elwood. John retired to Carmel, CA in 2002 and became an active member of the community. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, taking photographs, and traveling throughout Japan and Europe. John was dedicated to the Carmel Mission, where he volunteered as a docent for many years. John valued his connections to his friends, family and community. His heart and generosity were as large as his sense of humor and infectious laugh. John was a beloved husband, a loyal brother, a favored uncle and a dear friend. John is survived by his wife, Satoko, his brother William, of Bedford, NY, and his many nieces and nephews.

On Faith

Page 12 | Greenwich Sentinel

On Faith Feature

The Amazing Invitation of This Moment

By Jake Kircher My initiation into the important conversations about race started a little over 8-years ago as my wife and I made our way out of Hartford Hospital with our (eventually adopted) foster son. Like many new parents, we were both excited and nervous about what was ahead, and yet bringing this amazing brown (as my son prefers to be described)

boy into our family changed my life in numerous ways. That day began a crash course (that I am still in the middle of ) of seeing the world from a different perspective and doing everything I can to learn and grow so that I can help my son face the world. The news over the last couple of weeks has brought such a mix of emotions. To see the world responding so loudly to George Floyd’s death and coming together at this moment has been moving and hopeful as the father of a black son. However, at the exact same time, I have found myself wrestling with doubt and questions about what this will mean practically. Without specif ic actions and changes to accompany the protests and memorials, they will simply fall into the category of more “thoug hts and prayers” and

become a nice gesture that lacks any sort of depth or meaning. Changes have to be rooted in a foundation of understanding that all people are created equal and that at the core of that belief is our spirituality. A sole evolutionist perspective allows and encourages the survival of the f ittest and creating a hierarchy to the world. However, when you look at the creation narrative laid out in the first book of the Scriptures, there is an invitation into something deeper. When God created the world, God declared that it was all very good and then God looked at humankind and blessed it. The story of faith doesn’t begin with being broken and sinful; it starts with being blessed and bearing the image of God. Within my tradition of Christianity, this is something

that the work of Jesus calls b ack to t h r oug h h i s pu bl ic ministry, as well as his death and resurrection. The religious and secular systems of the day had created guidelines to who was in and who was out, and yet Jesus ignored those cultural rules altogether. He constantly was spending time with the people who were “out”, and would have been deemed unclean, and more so, those were the very people he invited to follow him, as Jewish students would have followed their Rabbi. Jesus then showed them how to truly live life to the fullest: by giving up his life for them and inviting them into a resurrection life that sought to make all things new. That invitation from Jesus extends to all of us today; that we would live our lives as Christ did and, “in hum ilit y count

others more signif icant than yourselves…[and] look not only to [our] own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (See Philippians 2:3b-4) This is the same invitation that spoke to me as I brought my son home from the hospital and as I parent him every day. And it’s the same invitation that speaks to each one of us as we mourn what happened to George Floyd and as we cry out for things still today to be made new. The invitation of this moment is asking all of us to lean in, to learn, to ask questions, to better understand the world from a perspective that those of us who are white honestly don’t. This moment is asking all of us to look at the people of color who are suffering and hurting and to come alongside them in their grief and ask why.

Asking questions is the f irst step to learning, so humbly open yourself up to listening to a person of color tell their story and listen to them as a fellow brother or sister in God who was given the same God-given blessing and image that you have within you. Then we have the opportunity to live like Jesus and take action for our fellow human beings who have been oppressed and mistreated by laying down our privilege and preferences and sacrificing for the sake of making the world a better place. How can you participate in a resurrection life today? What would it look like for you to respond to the invitation to do God’s work of making all things new? Jake Kircher is the Executive Pastor at Trinity Church

GFC's Community Support Statement The Greenwich Clergy Fellowship condemns the brutal killing of honest dialogue about racism in our community and country. We George Floyd, an African American man in Minneapolis. As people invite you to join us in seeking God’s justice as we act against racism of faith, we believe that the Spirit of God breathes love down upon and for reconciliation in our nation. us so we may all have flourishing, meaningful lives. Mr. Floyd was The Greenwich Fellowship of Clergy denied this foundational right to live with his last words on earth “I can’t breathe.” We are reminded once again that our hope for The Rev’d. Stephanie M. Johnson, St. Paul's Episcopal Church equality in this nation is still not a reality for people of color. In the The Rev. Dr. Edward G. Horstmann, Senior Minister, Round Hill heartbreaking killing of Mr. Floyd we recognize that this is not an Community Church isolated incident as we acknowledge the systemic racism that still The Rev. Marek Zabriskie, Christ Church Greenwich exists in our society. And yet we deplore those who would exploit The Rev. Dr. Heather Wright, Stanwich Congregational Church righteous anger and nonviolent protests by inciting violence and The Rev’d. Ted Pardoe, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church vandalism. Rabbi Mitchell M. Hurvitz, Temple Sholom The prophet Micah (6:8) exhorted “And what does the Lord The Rev. Carol Bloom, Diamond Hill United Methodist Church require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly Monsignor Alan Detscher, St. Catherine’s of Siena Church (former) with your God.” As clergy leadership in this community, we vow to Rev Felix-Gerard Delatour, Bethel African Methodist seek justice as we stand up for and amplify the voices of people of Episcopal Church (AMEC) color who have been marginalized and brutalized. We vow to love The Rev. Dr. Cheryl McFadden, Christ Church Greenwich mercy as we share in God’s mercy that is freely given to all of us. We Rev. Ben Valentine, Trinity Church do this as we walk humbly before God, realizing that without God’s Rev. Katie Evans, Trinity Church help we can do nothing. We commit to engaging in thoughtful and Rev. Jake Kircher, Trinity Church

Rev. Andy Hayball, Trinity Church Tiffany Faulstich, First Church of Christ, Scientist Cantor Jill Abramson, Congregation Shir Ami The Rev. Margaret Allred Finnerud, Greenwich Chaplaincy Services Rabbi Jordie Gerson, Greenwich Reform Synagogue Rev. Maxwell Grant, Second Congregational Church Rev. Shawn Garan, Second Congregational Church Rev. Joan Osgood, Chaplain Rev Patrick Collins, The First Congregational Church of Greenwich The Rev. Andre Castillo, First Presbyterian Church of Greenwich Pastor Lloyd Syvertsen, Greenwich Baptist Church Cantor Jill Abramson, Congregation Shir Ami Rabbi MJ Newman, Greenwich Hospital Rev. Maxwell Grant, Second Congregational Church Rev. Shawn Garan, Second Congregational Church Fr. Eddie Lopez, Greenwich Hospital The Rev. Dr. Felix Gerard Delatour, Bethel AME Church The Rev. Margaret Allred Finnerud, Greenwich Chaplaincy Services The Rev. Canon Suzanne M. Culhane, The Episcopal Diocese of Long Island, Christ Church Greenwich (former)

Worship Services & Events ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Harvest Time Church 1338 King St., 203-531-7778 www.htchurch.com Online Sunday Worship: 9 & 11am, htchurch.com & social media outlets. Walking with The King, Mon 8pm. Find Freedom, Tue 8:30am, via Zoom. GriefShare: Wed through June 24, 1-2:30pm. Pray with the Pastors: Thu, 8pm. HTKidz Worship – a weekly Bible story and simple activities parents can do at home to reinforce the lesson (bit.ly/HTKidzList). ‘GriefShare’ online weekly meeting (credentials to participate will be supplied to you when you register). In-Person Worship Services: Sundays: 8:30, 10 & 11:30am (tickets will be made available each week via Eventbrite. Services will continue to be live-streamed). BAPTIST First Baptist Church 10 Northfield St.; 203-869-7988 www.firstbaptistgreenwich.com Sunday Service via FB Live: 11:30am. Greenwich Baptist Church 10 Indian Rock Ln; 203-869-2807 www.greenwichbaptist.org Online Worship - Sunday, 11am, streamed through Facebook and website (greenwichbaptist.org/ livestream). Sunday Morning Prayer: Sun, 8:30-9:15am, via Google Meet. Bible Study: Sun, 9:30-10:30am, via Google Meet. CATHOLIC

Sacred Heart Church 95 Henry St.; 203-531-8730 www.sacredheartgreenwich.org Sunday Masses will be resumed on June 13 and Weekday Masses will be resumed on June 29 (Registration for attending any Mass is required. Call or leave your message or text only at: 203-559-9256 or email: sacredheartgrn@optonline. net. Registration closes by 1pm on Fridays.) The Parish of St. Catherine of Siena and St. Agnes St. Agnes: 247 Stanwich Rd; St. Catherine of Siena: 4 Riverside Ave; 203-637-3661 www.stc-sta.org Virtual Mass via Zoom: Sun 10:30am & Wed 1:30pm (Daily). Virtual events: Rosary: Mon 1:30pm. Prayer and Conversation: Tue & Thu 1:30pm. Stations of the Cross: Fri 1:30pm. The priests of the parish will celebrate Mass privately for your intentions. Parish Partners offers hotline & daily prayer at 203-637-3661 x375. Virtual Daily Mass: Mon-Fri, 7-7:30am, (sign up through homepage). Daily Mass under the Tent: MonFri, 5:15-5:45pm (sign up through homepage). Mass at St. Agnes: June 13, 5-6pm (sign up through homepage). Mass at St. Agnes: June 14, 8:30-9:30am, (sign up through homepage). “Dinner with a Cause” honoring the work of Hope for Haiti: June 17 at 7 p.m., via Zoom. No-Contact Food Drive for Neighbor to Neighbor: Tuesdays, 9am-12pm, (there will be a car or SUV with an open trunk

in the parking lot across from St. Catherine’s church, please drop your bagged grocery donations in the trunk). St. Mary Church 178 Greenwich Ave.; 203-869-9393 www.stmarygreenwich.org Daily Mass (Mon-Sun), 12pm, with Fr. La Pastina on Facebook. Visit EWTN. com for daily Mass at 8am with encore at 12pm. Public Sunday Mass resumes - will be celebrated on the patio (must make reservation in advance by calling the Parish Office Thu or Fri, 9am-3pm and speak to the receptionist (Voicemail reservations cannot be honored). Confessions resume: Saturdays, 2:45-3:45pm, on the patio. St. Michael the Archangel 469 North St.; 203-869-5421 www.stmichaelgreenwich.com Sunday Mass: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30am (make a reservation: signupgenius. com/go/stmichaelgreenwich). All Masses and Adoration will continue to be live-streamed. St. Timothy Chapel 1034 North St.; 203-869-5421 Outdoor public celebration of Mass: Mon-Sat: 7:30 & 9:30am, St. Timothy’s Chapel. Sun: 7:30, 9:30 11:30am, St. Michael’s Church. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: Wed, 10am-4pm & Sun, 12-1pm. Confessions: Wed, 1011am & 3-4pm, St. Timothy’s chapel (make a reservation: signupgenius. com/go/stmichaelgreenwich). All Masses and Adoration will continue to

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be live-streamed. St. Paul Church 84 Sherwood Ave.; 203-531-8741 www.stpaulgreenwich.org Online daily Mass at EWTN.com, 8am with encore at 12pm. Daily Mass also available on Bishop Robert Barron’s website at wordonfire.org/dailymass. Confessions by appointment only – leave a message at 203-5318741 ext. 2. Public Mass resumes - Celebration of the Mass - Feast of Corpus Christi: June 13, 4pm, reservations are required by visiting the homepage or calling 203-531-8741 ext. 4 or dial 203542-0551. St. Roch Church 10 St. Roch Ave.; 203-869-4176 www.strochchurch.com Mass - via live streaming: Mon-Sat 8am (Latin), Mon-Sat 9am (English), Sun 7:30am (English), [Concelebrated for Previously Scheduled 7:30am & 9:30am Mass Intentions], Sun 1pm (Spanish) [Concelebrated for Previously Scheduled 11:30am & 1pm Mass Intentions]. The Church will be open as follows (for private prayer): M-F 10am-8pm, Sat 3-6pm, Sun 9am12pm. Eucharistic Adoration (silent): M-F 7-8pm, Sat 5-6pm, Sun 9am12pm. CHRISTIAN SCIENCE First Church of Christ, Scientist 11 Park Place; 203-869-2503 www.christiansciencect.org/ greenwich Sunday and Wednesday services via live tele-conference: 203-680-9095, code is 520520*.

The Golden Rule - The Greatest Ethical Maxim inside another person’s life and see and experience the world through his or her eyes. The If the Sermon on the Mount golden rule invites us to take is the greatest summary of the a leap of imagination and then Law and the Prophets that we take loving action accordingly. will ever hear, then the golden So why don’t we? rule is the glorious summary of the summary. Jesus said, “So If the Sermon on the Mount whatever you wish that others is the greatest summary of the would do to you, do also to Law and the Prophets that we them, for this is the Law and the will ever hear, then the golden Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12). The rule is the glorious summary golden rule is an intellectual of the summary. Jesus said, “So tour de force. In Jesus’ words we whatever you wish that others have the greatest ethical maxim would do to you, do also to ever devised. It is breathtakingly them, for this is the Law and the brilliant. The only example Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12). Jesus sets up is us. The golden I love John Ortberg’s passion rule takes our own sense of self- on the subject of the golden rule preservation and then redeploys when he says, “You can use it for the good of others. the golden rule on people you The truth is that we all are like. You can use it on people born with certain baggage: we you don’t like (and oddly if you are who we were born as, where do so you will find you start to we were born, how we were like them more). You can use raised. It is too easy to get stuck the golden rule while you drive. inside that person, causing us You can use the golden rule to focus on how we are being while you are texting. You can treated. When we are asked, use the golden rule and not text “How did your day go?” we often while you drive!” Martin Luther, respond based on our answer to the great reformer, said of the the question, “How did people golden rule, “It was certainly treat us?” The golden rule turns very clever of Christ to state it that on its head and asks, “How this way.” It was and remains d id you treat others? ” The so clever. So brilliant! So perfect golden rule invites us to crawl and so clear . . . so why don’t we

By Bishop Andrew Williams

actually do it?! The golden rule proves the poverty of the argument that says that all you have to do is give people instruction and tell them what to do – that they will understand and put the rule into practice. The golden rule has been within the intellectual g rasp of hu ma n it y for t wo thousand years – and the last two hundred years we have taken great leaps in science and technology – and still we fail to live by it. Why? In a fallen world, the very principle that should trigger the golden rule (“How would I feel if . . .”) overpowers and smothers the operation of the rule. We get stuck on the “I” part. Author Karen Joy Fowler writes, “‘Do unto others’ is an unnatural, inhuman behavior. You can understand why so many churches and churchgoers say it but so few achieve it. It goes against something fundamental in our natures. And this, then, is the human tragedy—that the common humanity we share is fundamentally based on the denial of a common shared humanity.” Often what looks like the application of the golden rule is actually plain old vanity, pride,

and self-interest in disguise! Left to our own devices, we cannot help but at best be covertly selfcentered – even when we want to appear “other-centered.” This means that we are inclined to get irritated with God, perhaps even not like God very much, because He is someone who wants to come in and mess with our self-centeredness. “For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot.” (Romans 8:7, emphasis mine). The answer is that we need to start not with the application of the golden rule but with God. The greatest commandment is, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27 ). Notice the order. We don’t start with our neighbor. For really important reasons, we must start with loving God. Our relationship with our neighbor will never be what it should be unless we are right with God. We cannot love our neighbor as ourselves until we get right with God. Prayer: Father, you have set your relentless, unconditional

love on me, so help me to receive is that going to happen? that love first. In the book of Acts, Peter tells us of Jesus, “He went about The Golden Rule and our doing good…” (Acts 10:38). Jesus relationship with God not only taught a golden rule life, Our relationship with our He lived a golden rule life. John neighbor will never be what it Ortberg reminds us, “If I were a should be unless we are right leper, I would long for someone with God. We cannot love our to see my humanity. I would neighbor as ourselves until we long to be talked to, touched, get right with God. The good healed. No rabbi would do that. news is that Jesus not only But Jesus did.” In the same way, taught a golden rule message if my life had descended to the – He died a golden rule death point of having to prostitute so that we could be made right myself, I would dream of being with God. “God shows His love treated with dignity. I would for us in that while we were want someone to see through still sinners, Christ died for us.” my brokenness and destitution (Romans 5:8). To come before and see the real me. Jesus did God is always to see that truth that. All the way to Good Friday, about ourselves. We are not Jesus lived a golden rule life. If kings of magnanimity on the I were the thief on the Cross, freeway or anywhere else in I would know that I had no life. When we look to God and defense, but I would hope that see ourselves in relationship someone might have mercy. to Him, we become conscious Even from His place on the of our own fallenness and then Cross Jesus did that. discover that, remarkably, we You see, the truth about the do not get from God what we golden rule life is that it is not a deserve. We anticipate rejection, rule so much as it is the living but He looks upon us with grace continuation of Jesus’ ministry and embraces us in love and through us. mercy. And then, through the Prayer: Jesus, let me live so golden rule, it’s as if Jesus says, “Let me help you look upon close to your heart, that I can't others as I have looked and help but live as your hands and continue to look upon you.” How feet to those around me.

Worship Services & Events COMMUNITY First Church of Round Hill 464 Round Hill Rd.; 203-629-3876 www.firstchurchofroundhill.com Worship services are cancelled until further notice. The office is also closed until further notice. (If you need to reach Rev. Leo W. Curry, pastor, or any other personnel, call 203-6293876 and leave a message or email fcroundhill@outlook.com) Round Hill Community Church 395 Round Hill Rd.; 203-869-1091 www.roundhillcommunitychurch. org Sunday Worship & Church School - Online: Sun 10am, youtu.be/ CNjyLHzsRlI. Face Masks for BGCG: for more information on this project, contact jjacullo@ optonline.net. CONGREGATIONAL The First Congregational Church 108 Sound Beach Ave; 203-637-1791 www.fccog.org Online Worship Service: Sun 10am, through live-streaming on YouTube and broadcast on WGCH (or tune to AM1490 or FM105.5). Virtual Community Hour: Sun 11am, via Zoom (meeting ID: 909 415 108, password: 003930). Connect during the week: Monday: Music on Mondays (sent by Craig Symons); Wednesday: Wisdom on Wednesdays (sent by Rev. Patrick Collins); Thursday: Faith Formation at Home for All (sent by Rosemary Lamie); Friday: Fridays by the Fireside (live with Rev. Patrick Collins). North Greenwich Congregational 606 Riversville Rd.; 203-869-7763 www.northgreenwichchurch.org Online Worship Service: Sun 10:30am, via Zoom. Please email Rev. Halac at Pastor@northgreenwichchurch.org any day and at any time until 9am on Sunday and you will receive an invitation link. Second Congregational Church 139 E Putnam Ave.; 203-869-9311 www.2cc.org Services available online, details at 2cc.org. Contemporary Worship: Sat, 5pm. Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:30am. EPISCOPAL Anglican Church of the Advent 606 Riversville Rd.; 203-861-2432 www.churchoftheadvent.org Service: Sun 9am Holy Eucharist. Sunday School during academic year. Christ Church Greenwich 254 E. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-6600 www.christchurchgreenwich.org Virtual Worship Services: Sun: Holy Eucharist, 10am – livestream; Weekdays: Morning Prayer, 8am, on Zoom; Thu: Evensong, 5pm livestream. Morning Prayer livesessions: 7 & 9am at dailyoffice.org. Prayer of the Cloud Meditation via

Zoom: Mon, 7-8pm. Organ Recitals: Fri, 5:30pm, Facebook Live. Outdoor Worship: Sun, 9am, during Summer (weather permitting), (Space is limited. Registration required. Some restrictions apply). Virtual ‘Packathon’ – ongoing (onrealm. o r g/P a r i s h C h r i s t C h u/-/g i ve/ outreach). Bible Challenge Study with Marek Zabriskie: June 15, 11am-12pm. St. Barnabas Episcopal Church 954 Lake Ave.; 203-661-5526 www.stbarnabasgreenwich.org Sunday Virtual Service, 10am. Virtual Coffee Hour, 10:30am. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 200 Riverside Ave.; 203-637-2447 www.stpaulsriverside.org Online Morning Prayer: Sun, 10:1511:15am. The Book of Common Prayer is available online in PDF format: stpaulsriverside.org/onlineworship-resources. Faith At Home - crafted devotional materials for families and individuals available at dofaithathome.org. June 16: Bible Study, 10:30am, via Zoom. VBS Art Camp: June 22-26, 9am-12pm, $125/week or $25/day (family discounts available), ann.post@ stpaulsriverside.org. St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church 350 Sound Beach Ave; 203-6372262 www.saintsaviours.org Online Worship Services available on Youtube. JEWISH Chabad Lubavitch of Greenwich 75 Mason St.; 203-629-9059 www.chabadgreenwich.org Services available via Zoom. PJ Library Zoom Storytime: Mon-Thurs, 3pm & Fri, 2pm. ‘Sharing Responsibilities While Keeping Your Loving Relationship Intact During This Pandemic’ with Dr. Dale Atkins: June 14, 8pm, via Zoom. Congregation Shir Ami 1273 E. Putnam Ave, PO Box 312, Riverside; 203-900-7976; Shirami.info@ gmail.com www.congregationshirami.org All services, programs and celebrations are available online via Zoom. Virtual Women’s Rosh Chodesh: June 16, 7-8:30pm, Zoom link to be provided. Shabbat/Oneg: June 19, 7:30-9:30pm, Zoom link to be provided. Greenwich Reform Synagogue 92 Orchard St.; 203-629-0018 www.grs.org Online programs streamed virtually on Zoom.us: Tot Shabbat with Rabbi Gerson and Cantor Dunkerley, Fri, 5pm. Shabbat services with Rabbi Gerson and Cantor Dunkerley, Fri, 7pm. Jewish meditation and text study with Rabbi Gerson, Tue-Fri, 12pm. Storytime for Kids with Rabbi Gerson, Tue-Thu 5:30pm. Kids Sing Along with Cantor Dunkerley, Mon-Thu, 10am.

Temple Sholom 300 E. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-7191 www.templesholom.com

Stanwich Church 202 Taconic Rd.; 203-661-4420 www.stanwichchurch.org

First Lutheran Church 38 Field Point Rd.; 203-869-0032 www.firstpaul.com

Worship online: Sun, 10:45am, (stanwichchurch.org/live-streaming). Prayer Hour: Mon 7pm, Wed 6:30am, Fri 7am, via conference call (Dial 515606-5410, punch in access code: 119748#). Facebook Live with Pastor David: Wed 7pm. Student Small Groups: Fri 6:30pm, via Zoom. InPerson Worship Service - Phase 1: June 14, 10am (limited capacity), registration needed. Annual Meeting: June 15, 7pm, via Zoom (register to receive the link).

The Service of the Word is streamed live at 10am on Sundays. Holy Communion is offered throughout the week (at First Lutheran) by appointment.

The Albertson Memorial Church 293 Sound Beach Ave; 203-6374615 www.albertsonchurch.org

Services – live-streamed: Fri 6:30pm; Sat 10am; Sun 8:30am. If you have an emergency and need to reach a member of the clergy, dial 203-8697191 ext. 3. Lunch ‘N Learn: June 16, 12-1pm. LUTHERAN

St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran 286 Delavan Ave.; 203-531-8466

Sunday Services and all church activities have been cancelled until further notice.

Worship Services Live-streamed at firstpaul.com/live-stream.

Trinity Church 1 River Rd.; 203-618-0808 www.trinitychurch.life

METHODIST Diamond Hill United Methodist 521 E. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-2395 www.diamondhillumc.com Online Worship via Zoom. Hangout with Pastor Carol: Tues-Sat, 5-6pm, zoom.us/j/262529082 (No agenda, no structure - just stop by to hang out, talk about what is on your mind. Join in for any portion or the whole hour. Prayer requests accepted). Via phone: Dial-in: +1-929-436-2866 US (NY), Meeting ID: 262 529 082. ‘What Happened to the Disciples?’, Wed, 7:30pm, via Zoom (or Dial-in: +1 929 436 2866 US. Meeting ID: 940 2222 0303, Password: 516742). First United Methodist Church 59 E. Putnam Ave.; 203-629-9584 www.fumcgreenwich.com Virtual Sunday Worship, 9:30am, via Zoom (203 629 9584). Virtual Daily Gathering: Mon-Fri, 3pm, Zoom. Talking with Your Hands, Mon 3pm. Reading this World as a Christian, Tue 3pm. Back to Rock – music with Mr. Bruce, every Tue, 3pm, via Zoom. Reading the Shape of Scripture, Wed, 3pm, via Zoom. Spring Bible Study, Thu, 3pm, via Zoom. Tea & Talk, Fri 3pm, via Zoom. Worship with NYAC: June 14, 9:30am. Bethel African Methodist Episcopal 42 Lake Ave.; 203-661-3099 Worship via teleconference: Sun, 11am and until further notice (Dial-in number: 425-436-6380, Access code: 612220). NONDENOMINATIONAL Revive Church 90 Harding Rd., Old Greenwich (Old Greenwich Civic Center) www.myrevive.org Online sermons available on Facebook (facebook.com/ myrevivechurchgreenwich) and on Youtube. All groups will be online. Direct any prayer needs to the prayer chain at 203-536-2686 or revivecfm@ gmail.com.

Online Sunday Services: 9:45am, youtube.com/c/ TrinityChurchLife/ live. Digital Devos (a 30-minute ‘drop-in’ devotional and prayer via Zoom call: Tue & Fri, 11:30am; Thu, 7pm, TrinityChurch.Life. Give and receive help during Covid-19 – join the Covid-19 Crisis Care Team or request help and support, visit TrinityChurch. Life. PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 1 W. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-8686 www.fpcg.org Online Worship: Sun 10-11am at fpcg.org/live. Sunday School online, 10:15-11am. Email info@fpcg.org with questions. Beginning June 3: Summer Wednesdays (Online) - Join Ellie and Tara on Zoom every other Wed, 4:305:30pm, ages 4-4th Grade, email ellie. strathdee@fpcg.org (a Zoom link will be sent out bi-weekly). Women’s Book Discussion Group: ‘Political Tribes: Group instinct and the Fate of Nations’, June 12, 9:3010:30am, via Zoom. Grace Church of Greenwich 8 Sound Shore Dr., Suite 280 203-861-7555 www.gracechurchgreenwich.com Worship is cancelled indefinitely. Sermons available on the website. Living Hope Community Church 38 West End Ave; 203-637-3669 www.LivingHopeCT.org Worship Service online: Sun, 1011:15am (YouTube or Facebook). Coffee and fellowship: Sun, 11:15am12pm, via Zoom. Following the service prayer teams will be available to pray for you (fill out a form on the webpage). Wednesday Prayer: Wed, 8:30-9am. Garden Clean-Up Day: June 13, 9am-12pm, (bring gloves, shovel, trowel or any tools you find helpful), meet in the parking lot, for questions: 203-637-4672.

Page 14 | Greenwich Sentinel

Wildly Successful

The Southern Grasshopper Mouse

By Jim Knox The Sonoran Desert of the American Southwest and Northwest Mexico is known a s a forb idd i n g d ay t i m e landscape of scorching and deadly temperatures. Less familiar to most is that same landscape in nocturnal guise. No less deadly, it conceals a virtually unknown and lethal carnivore. Hu nt i n g t h e b o u l d e rst udde d S ag ua r o s t a nd s and scoured arroyos, this predator is unmatched. When night descends, the hunt is on. Stealth is its ally and few species can withstand its relentless attack. Mammals, reptiles, and birds all fall t o t h i s m a r a u d e r. E v e n the fatally venomous have reason to fear. Tarantulas, snakes, and scorpions all find themselves on its menu. What kind of beast sends these predators scurrying and slither ing for cover? Would you believe...a mouse? Bold and tenacious, the Southern Grasshopper Mouse (Onychomys torridus) has long been revered by N a t i ve A m e r i c a n t r i b e s

for it s hu nt i ng pr owe s s . Stretching the tape, a mere six inches (the length of a dollar bill) and tipping the scales at just 1.7 ounces (the weight of 17 pennies), this is a mouse by any measure. Yet, this humble façade cloaks a behavioral lion within. One of just three car n ivorous, noctur na l mouse species on the North A mer ic a n cont i nent, t he Southern Grasshopper Mouse earns its name for its predilection for grasshoppers and their insect kin. Yet from grasshoppers to scorpions is not much of a taxonomic leap. Here’s where it gets really interesting. Grasshopper M ic e ac t ua l ly sp e c ia l i z e in taking down venomous prey—such as the potentially fatal Arizona Bark Scorpion— and have specifically evolved to wage war in the chemical / adaptation arms race with their deadly foes. This has yielded a rodent superpower without equal—immunity to venoms. O ver m i l len n ia, t he se modest rodents have

developed im mu n ities to various scorpion and snake venoms, equipping them to withstand a direct scorpion sting to the nose that could kill a human! In addition to this ability to reject certain toxins, these remarkable little creatures possess a gene which prevents pain signals from envenomation. This is most telling as it enables the Grasshopper Mouse to fight through blows that would kill a mammal hundreds of times its bulk! This adaptation alone makes them promising subjects in the field of pain therapy compound research. Imagine a day when a patient u ndergoing pa in therapy treatment could owe their relief to the pain blocking a b i l i t i e s o f t h i s hu m b l e creature. E m p l oy i n g s t e a l t h a s they stalk, and lunging for a killing bite, Grasshopper

prey such as the venomous, G i a nt D e s e r t Ce nt ip e de . When vanquishing scorpions, they take a different tact—withstanding t h e f u l l fo r c e o f a s t i n g from the scorpion’s telson before biting it off and then eating their formidable prey

seed-crunching, common brethren. Yet, the Southern Grasshopper Mouse is no common mouse. Aggressive to all comers, Grasshopper Mice do not excavate their own burrows but displace their shy, herbivorous kin— mice, Kangaroo Mice, and

Over millennia, these modest rodents have developed immunities to various scorpion and snake venoms, equipping them to withstand a direct scorpion sting to the nose that could kill a human! Mice are behaviorally closer to l e op a r d s a nd j a g u a r s than they are to their fellow rodents. They are utterly relentless, repeatedly biting to breach the hardened exoskeleton and disable the central nervous system of

headfirst! T he mou s e c ap s such battles w ith its v ictor y howl wh ich c a r r ie s over the landscape like the howl of a mouse-sized wolf. “As quiet as a church mouse” may describe their retiring,

voles—when they need new digs. What’s more, they will then kill and eat their evicted cousins, eliminating resource competition and grabbing “fast food” in the process. Nature has infinite stories she can share. With each

one, many lessons to impart. Some of her lessons are clear. Others are more discrete, requiring a closer look at t he seem i ng ly mu nda ne. Just when we t h i n k we mastered a lesson; a creature comes along which forces us to rethink everything we have learned. “As timid as a mouse.” Such lang uage is em bedded in our ver y cultural definition of these rodents. We know them as skittish, flight-prone animals which dash at the f lick of a light switch. This is what we have come to expect. Some mice however, never got the memo. They don’t subscribe to our sweeping language and tidy definitions. They prefer to write their own narrative and thank goodness for them. In the Southern G r a s sh op p e r Mou s e , we have a creature which is ata-glance, retiring, but upon closer inspection, inspiring. When the hear t of a lion beats within the body of a mouse, the extraordinary occurs. These tiny mammals earn the respect of all who know them. With the Grasshopper Mouse as your guide, let the world ascribe common expectations while yo u a c h i e ve a s to u n d i n g victories. Jim Knox serves as the Cu ra to r o f E d u c a t i o n fo r Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo and as a Science Adviser for The Bruce Museum. Jim has a passion for working with wild creatures and for sharing that passion with audiences of all ages.

Page 15 | Greenwich Sentinel

Astrology Column For Week of June 14, 2020

GEMINI 22 May-21 June A sudden expense or obligation – perhaps something you’d forgotten – may take the shine off the week, but only initially. Once you realise you’ve enough in reserve to meet others’ demands you’ll feel happier. Then you really can forget about it.

SAGITTARIUS 23 Nov-21 Dec There are risks in what you’re planning but that doesn’t mean you should fear the worst. Your outlook is everything: if you view life negatively you invite negative results; if you look at life through rose-tinted spectacles the world will be a wonderful place.

CANCER 22 June-23 July What you want and what you get may be different things this week, a theme that will repeat itself over the next three weeks while Mercury is retrograde. But bear in mind that what you want is not always what you need. The planets know best.

CAPRICORN 22 Dec-20 Jan You may have a minor setback this week but remember it is only minor – in the greater scheme of things it won’t mean too much. And, as with so many minor setbacks, it could lead to a wonderful opportunity. Think positive and you’ll get positive results.

LEO 24 July-23 Aug You hate not being in control. Nothing worries you more than knowing someone else is pulling the strings. But you’ll have to get used to it over the next few weeks, so don’t take a negative view of everything you see or hear. Others know what they’re doing.

AQUARIUS 21 Jan-19 Feb You may be irritated by a colleague’s behaviour, especially their apparent lack of concern for others, but you won’t solve anything by saying something hurtful. Pretend you’re not in the least bit annoyed – and you will find that you cease to be so.

VIRGO 24 Aug-23 Sept Change is good for you and something you should now be seeking in all areas of your life. So why make such a fuss over something trivial that you say you could happily live without? Could it be it’s not so trivial after all? Only time will tell.

PISCES 20 Feb-20 March While Mercury moves retrograde until 12th July your creative plans and domestic arrangements may be disrupted by small but very irritating setbacks and delays. There’s nothing you can do about it so don’t change a thing. This is not a time for action but reflection.

LIBRA 24 Sept-23 Oct Even if you cannot find the words to express what you mean to those you live or work with it doesn’t matter – they’re too busy with their own worries to be interested in yours. This is a time for reflection not communication: the words will come easier later.

ARIES 21 March-20 April Don’t reveal too much information this week, about your family, colleagues or yourself, because you could inadvertently get someone into trouble. Since you are under no obligation to tell anybody anything, just smile and say nothing.

SCORPIO 24 Oct-22 Nov You can’t be inspired all the time - even Scorpios must give their brains a rest occasionally. Mind planet Mercury turns retrograde this week which means your mind won’t work as fast as it has been recently. No matter: the change of pace will do you good.

TAURUS 21 April-21 May You may feel restless, in need of a break, but don’t make too many plans because they may change. Instead, make more time for yourself, simply by spending less time doing things out of habit rather than because there’s any real need to do them.

Discover more about yourself at sallybrompton.com

Sudoku, each row, column, and nonet can contain each number only once. Answers on page 7.

Easy

Discover your inner artist. Coloring is good for the brain and improves moods.

Hard

Page 16 | Greenwich Sentinel

GHS Holds 151st Commencement

By Richard Kaufman Greenw ich Hig h School held its 151st commencement ceremony on Tuesday, and it certainly had a different feel to it. Rather than a sea of red and white f illing Cardinal Stadium, families drove through the front circle and back parking lot, oftentimes in decorative Cardinal-themed cars, as 701 graduating seniors took part in the annual rite of passage of walking across a stage to receive their diplomas. The "drive-thru" graduation plan was devised to keep social distancing in mind due to the coronavirus pandemic. O n Tu e s d a y e v e n i n g , a p r e - r e c o r d e d commencement ceremony was posted online. The ceremony had a hopeful tone about the future, as the last few months have been filled with many challenges and unknowns. Speakers recorded video of themselves at home, or outdoors. A "Senior Send-off" video from the GHS PTA was posted as well, which featured photos of the seniors, and comments from First Selectman Fred Camillo and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont. It also featured the commencement remarks from President Barack Obama, Jon Stewart and Oprah Winfrey. Both videos can be viewed at greenwichschools.org. Mark Tei xeira, a three-time all-star and World Series champion who played eight of his 14 seasons with the New York Yankees, was the commencement speaker. Teixeira lives in Greenwich with his family, and is a baseball analyst for ESPN. He is also a board member for the DREAM organization, which works to help charter schools, after school programs and summer schools in giving underprivileged children the skills they need to succeed in the future. Teixeira said the one thing he wished to impress

upon the GHS graduating class of 2020 is to continue to believe, trust and invest in themselves. After growing up playing baseball in Baltimore, Md., a place not known for producing great baseball players, Teixeira went to college at Georgia Tech where he continued to play. "I thought I was the big man on campus in high school, and I went to Georgia Tech, and I looked around my baseball team and I said, 'Oh, my goodness, these guys are all better than me,'" Teixeira said. "You're going to go to college, and a lot of you are going to say, 'Oh, my goodness, everybody is smarter than me.' You know what? They're not. You guys have just as much talent, you have just as much ability. You have the chance to do something great in your life, but you have to trust yourself. Trust in your abilities." Teixeira added that there will be challenges ahead, and a lot of ups and downs. "But if you get through those first few months of anxiety [at college] and not really knowing what to expect, you have the chance to do something amazing. I trust that you all will." Lucas Gazianis, Class President, spoke about how the graduating class was forced to tackle distance learning and other challenges with going to school during a global pandemic with patience and creativity. "These challenges have also gifted us with a greater appreciation of the many things we've taken for granted, so that when the pandemic finally wanes for good, we will reemerge reinvigorated w ith deeper purpose and g reater collective responsibility than ever before," he said. Justin Speaker and Anne-Emilie Rouff iac served as the Class Salutatorians, and talked about their experience at GHS. Co-Valedictorian, Zachary Wong, said the GHS community welcomed him with open arms when

he transferred to the school in 10th grade. He added the graduating class will be able to get through any obstacle thrown their way. "You should be proud of your accomplishments," Wong said. "Think of this time as a trial -- one that will make us stronger, kinder, more resilient and more empathetic." Co-Valedictorian, Melissa Woo, ref lected on her memories of GHS over the last four years. She said pandemic has given the graduating class an opportunity to shape the world. "Our relentless consumer consumption has ground to a halt. We're now listening to scientists and doctors who work tirelessly to investigate, analyze and debate the new world that we live in. The skies above our polluted cities are blue again, giving us an unexpected window to address climate change," Woo said. "The destructive impacts of income and racial inequality and disparities in healthcare are now plainly visible. We have an opportunity to focus on the common good and build a more humane and equal society. Together, we can figure out what kind of people we want to be in the world, and what kind of world we want to live in." Following the GHS Choir singing of "Something Is Holding Me Here", Matthew Tamis, Class Treasurer, announced that the seniors will make two donations to non-profit organizations in the community. Operation Hope, an organization that helps families and children in poverty overcome obstacles economically and educationally, and Neighbor To Neighbor, which helps to provide food and clothing to those in need, will be the beneficiaries. Additionally, Tamis announced, the graduating class will keep a portion of money in reserve so they can fund an in-person reunion in the near future. As a sign of the times, the seniors gifted Cardinal-themed face masks to four faculty

members who helped with organizing special events. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Toni Jones spoke briefly, and wished everyone well in the next chapter of their lives. Board of Education Chair, Peter Bernstein, also gave well-wishes. "I predict that when you find the love of your life, and perhaps have children one day, your family unit will be stronger because of what you lived through this year," Jones said. Jones offered up words of advice from her late mother, to be strong in mind, body and spirit. B e f o r e G H S H e a d m a s t e r, R a l p h M a yo , addressed the seniors, he w ished Assistant Headmaster Rick Piotrzkowski well in retirement. Piotrzkowski has worked at GHS for 36 years as a teacher, program administrator for science, and interim headmaster before his assistant role. "I do not have the words to describe [Rick's] contribution to our school. He works day and night to make GHS an excellent place to both teach and learn. We will dearly miss his unwavering support, work ethic, and dedication to our school," Mayo said. Mayo praised the graduates for the connections they've made with each other, and with the community. He left them with words he found on a plaque at Town Hall, which used to be the old high school. "GHS, erected 1925. That those attending here may gain the foundation of knowledge and the beginning of wisdom, and may foster the virtue of charity, the love of justice, the spirit of loyalty, and the will to serve," Mayo read. "It's imperative you follow the words on this plaque, as they will guide you towards a very fruitful and happy life, which is my own definition of success."

Sports Give Back

Greenwich High Trio Proving Sports Give By Paul Silverfarb

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Lately, even the simplest things seem like such a big ordeal. Classes are being taught remotely, jobs have been furloughed or lost, businesses are shuttering, and just interacting with people brings on high anxiety. But Christopher Cataldo, John Cataldo and Jack Cook, all juniors and athletes at Greenwich High School, are looking to make things just a little bit easier for people throughout the Greenwich area during these trying times. That ’s wher e t he ide a of Sports Give Back came into play and all three knew that after 18 months of planning, now is the perfect time to launch this online platform. “I think we all feel paralyzed these days, not being able to play the sports we love so much,” said Cook. “Sports Give Back gives us the opportunity to do something productive and feel better about these difficult times.” Sports Give Back, launched earlier this month, is raising funds for local charities, all the while providing a mechanism for people to purchase new and gently used sports equipment at low prices. “Given the global pandemic, it is extremely important to do this for our community,” said Chris Cataldo. “By collecting this old, used sports equipment we are able to turn that into donations to local charities that are struggling during this time.” The trio of GHS students couldn’t have made it easier to get the ball rolling. Simply log onto http://sportsgiveback. org and either donate or email jpcataldo3@yahoo.com to donate or purchase sports equipment. We’ve all literally outgrown our equipment many times over during the last few years,” said Cook. “Our own extra equipment spa rked the idea. From th is we starting asking friends and neighbors if they had equipment t hey wa nte d to donate . The business grew organically from there.” John Cataldo said that over the past couple of years, the trio realized the sheer volume of sports gear that is just sitting around garages and basements throughout Greenwich. “We then held many meetings to discuss how we can put this unwanted or unneeded gear to good use,” said John Cataldo. “After many lengthy discussions, we decided that we could sell this gear on an application called SideLine Swap. With the money made from this gear, we would then donate it to different charities in Greenwich.” O n t he Sp or ts Give B ack website, people can request a pickup for locally donated sports equipment. They can also inquire about equipment for sale, and to donate money to the cause. All the money collected helps support

local community nonprofits that do good in Greenwich. With Greenwich being such a diverse community, Chris Cataldo said that himself and his business partners realized that there are many families in dire need of living necessities. “At the same time there are many households that have too much stuff, particularly sports equipment,” he said. “So we thought the best way to combine both these facts was to create a foundation that turns used sports equipment into meaningful

donations to various charities.” And already Sports Give Back is giving back to the Greenwich community. In light of COVID-19, t hey have donate d $10 0 0 to Neighbor to Neighbor to help expand its food pantry and its ability to provide groceries to residents during this time of insecurity. The money was raised by selling an astounding 200 pieces of equipment, including lacrosse helmets, lacrosse shafts, hockey helmets, hockey sticks, and cleats. “It is def initely rewarding

to see people donating to this cause,” John Cataldo said. “We have put a lot of time into the development of this foundation and this idea. When seeing people donating, it gives us a feeling that our hard work has paid off. We have successfully given people an outlet to give back to their local communities.” “We love spreading the word, and getting people involved,” said Cook. “It’s great to be able to tell people that even a simple donation like a gently used lacrosse stick can make a real difference.”

Page 17 | Greenwich Sentinel

WHERE EXCELLENCE LIVES

Brid Mortamais 203.524.6827

Cristy Fraser 203.637.4581

Cynthia De Riemer 203.918.1523

Diana Whyte 203.570.6125

Diane Dutcher 203.249.2491

Erin Murphy 646.262.8554

Emile de Neree 914.572.4526

Jackie Chamandy 203.561.0079

Coldwell Banker Jane Owen Brash 203.952.9249

Jean Stafford Dana 203.918.8666

Congratulates the Graduating

Laura Calabrese 203.536.8523

Liz Johnson 203.253.7412

Class of

2020

Margaret Dietz 203.253.3243

Michelle Luksic 203.979.6407

Nora Giovati 203.940.3123

Russ Dutcher 203.570.3527

Pat Cameron 203.962.7627

Sally Parris 203.722.5023

Shanna Fischer 203.637.1300

Sheila Goggin 203.832.3654

Susan Calabrese 203.912.8308

Trish Clark 203.273.4214

The Old Greenwich Team 203.637.1300 ColdwellBankerHomes.com 278 Sound Beach Avenue | Old Greenwich, CT 06870 • 66 Field Point Road | Greenwich, CT 06830 Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty and Coldwell Banker Devonshire are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Page 18 | Greenwich Sentinel

REAL ESTATE DASHBOARD NEW LISTINGS

REAL ESTATE DASHBOARD MASTHEAD

Data Compiled by Cesar Rabellino (203) 249-9866

DASHBOARD EDITOR

Mark Pruner | Mark@GreenwichStreets.com | mark@bhhsne.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Robert Pulitano | RobertPulitano@bhhsne.com Cesar Rabillino | CesarRabellino@bhhsne.com Pam Toner | PamToner@bhhsne.com

NEW SALES

Data Compiled by Cesar Rabellino (203) 249-9866 Address

Original List

List Price

Sold Price DOM BR FB Acres

SqFt

75 Cos Cob Avenue 8 174 Putnam Park 174 202 Lyon Farm Drive 202 24 Lia Fail Way 8 Skylark Road 52 Burying Hill Road 5 Shady Brook Lane 142 Lower Cross Road 46 Terrace Avenue 48 North Ridge Road 26 Meadowcroft Lane 181 Milbank Avenue W 63 North Street 15 Cottontail Road 34 Annjim Drive 16 Boulder Brook Road 1 Hobart Drive 25 Orchard Hill Lane 24 Sylvan Lane 25 Richmond Hill Road 10 Crossway

$485,000 $639,000 $1,425,000 $995,000 $1,299,000 $1,650,000 $1,525,000 $1,730,000 $1,695,000 $1,850,000 $3,995,000 $2,650,000 $2,950,000 $2,975,000 $3,395,000 $4,295,000 $3,295,000 $3,700,000 $3,749,000 $5,850,000 $5,850,000

$485,000 $639,000 $1,145,000 $995,000 $1,199,000 $1,650,000 $1,525,000 $1,495,000 $1,695,000 $1,850,000 $3,495,000 $2,650,000 $2,950,000 $2,975,000 $3,275,000 $3,499,000 $3,295,000 $3,700,000 $3,749,000 $4,495,000 $4,900,000

$485,000 $625,000 $900,000 $940,000 $1,000,000 $1,405,000 $1,485,000 $1,520,000 $1,600,000 $1,850,000 $2,150,000 $2,487,500 $2,925,000 $2,930,000 $3,000,000 $3,200,000 $3,295,000 $3,558,750 $3,650,000 $4,100,000 $4,250,000

1,362

0 1.01 0.23 3.71 0.34 2.28 0.19 0.4 3.02 0 0.81 1.66 0.44 1.88 1.1 2.38 0.42 4.28 0.51

2,629 1,797 2,984 3,190 3,452 5,470 2,540 4,627 3,131 3,500 5,135 6,192 6,504 7,911 5,646 8,759 5,807 7,359 4,494

68 76 355 53 106 287 35 174 9 35 282 72 17 119 199 802 684 119 2 699 419

3 2 3 2 6 3 4 5 5 5 3 3 4 6 6 5 4 5 6 5 5

1 2 3 2 3 3 3 4 3 4 3 3 3 6 5 6 4 6 5 5 3

LAST WEEK'S SALES

Data Compiled by Cesar Rabellino (203) 249-9866 Address

Original List

List Price

Sold Price DOM BR FB Acres

SqFt

4 Putnam Hill 4F 2 Buckingham Lane 19 Hill Road 110 Hendrie Avenue 84 Londonderry Drive 338 Sound Beach Avenue 23 Maher Avenue 16 Round Hill Road

$279,500 $1,475,000 $2,200,000 $1,850,000 $2,200,000 $2,795,000 $3,295,000 $3,895,000

$265,000 $1,475,000 $1,849,995 $1,850,000 $2,200,000 $2,695,000 $2,975,000 $3,895,000

$260,000 $1,400,000 $1,450,000 $1,840,000 $1,920,000 $2,500,000 $2,800,000 $3,800,000

985 3,219 6,084 3,336 5,312 3,536 4,345 6,995

123 180 208 461 54 29 222 20

1 5 4 5 4 4 5 6

1 2 6 4 5 4 5 6

1.07 1.31 0.36 2 0.2 0.34 2.94

Deborah Ference-Gray

One Pickwick Plaza Greenwich, CT 06830

Office: 203.618.3155 Mobile: 917.584.4903

For Market Updates and Listings Visit deborahferencegray.com

deborah.ferencegray@sothebyshomes.com

Address

List Price

Price/SqFt

SqFt

Area

50 Lafayette Place 1I 34 Putnam Park 20 Church Street A46 100 Putnam Park 100 21 Byram Road 26 Columbus Avenue 251 Byram Road 50 Weaver Street 53 Bible Street 4 193 Hamilton Avenue 13 112 Pemberwick Road 15 Le Grande Avenue 2 56 Cambridge Drive 55 Locust Street B 33 Sunshine Avenue 11 River Road 112 12 Bonan Drive 33R Orchard Street 41 Amherst Road 31 Scott Road 8 Banksville Road 2 Putnam Hill 4G 1 Orchard Court 1 Anderson Road 33 Sachem Road 5 Old Greenwich Lane 5 Terrace Avenue 22 Shady Brook Lane 36 Forest Avenue 8 Oval Avenue 10 Lake Drive South 199 Palmer Hill Road 11 Circle Drive 233 Milbank Avenue 8 200 Overlook Drive 65 Ridgeview Avenue 151 Stanwich Road 167 Bedford Road 23 Oak Street 99 Valley Road E 51 Burying Hill Road 38 Copper Beech Road 2 Maher Court 2 Widgeon Way 7 Brook Drive 4 Idar Court B 37 North Ridge Road 2 Sylvan Lane 314 Maple Avenue 14 Coventry Lane 4 Buxton Lane 11 Plow Lane 25 Hillside Road 151 Park Avenue 51 & 0 Burying Hill Rd 72 Buckfield Lane 4 Cedar Hill 514 Round Hill Road 7 Plow Lane 126 Butternut Hollow 95 Richmond Hill Road 85 Taconic Road 6 Little Cove Place 247 Riverside Avenue 139 North Street 125 Pecksland Road 6 Tods Driftway 45 Husted Lane 30 Konittekock Road 429 Taconic Road

$349,000 $415,000 $445,000 $529,000 $549,500 $595,000 $615,000 $620,000 $649,000 $699,000 $699,000 $725,000 $735,000 $739,000 $750,000 $750,000 $795,000 $799,000 $849,000 $875,000 $995,000 $1,095,000 $1,175,000 $1,195,000 $1,199,000 $1,275,000 $1,285,000 $1,699,000 $1,799,000 $1,800,000 $1,895,000 $2,195,000 $2,250,000 $2,295,000 $2,295,000 $2,329,000 $2,400,000 $2,490,000 $2,495,000 $2,495,000 $2,495,000 $2,595,000 $2,645,000 $2,700,000 $2,750,000 $2,750,000 $2,795,000 $2,890,000 $3,200,000 $3,290,000 $3,350,000 $3,450,000 $3,495,000 $3,495,000 $3,695,000 $3,698,500 $3,750,000 $3,975,000 $3,995,000 $4,250,000 $4,750,000 $4,850,000 $5,495,000 $5,795,000 $6,595,000 $8,300,000 $10,500,000 $10,750,000 $13,995,000 $14,750,000

$468

745

$429

1,038

$330 $481 $452 $473 $464 $393 $450 $599 $382 $411 $404 $591 $548 $461 $461 $301 $329 $693 $485 $394 $403 $644 $566 $559 $620 $764 $664 $404 $441 $1,030 $691 $480 $501

1,664 1,236 1,362 1,310 1,400 1,779 1,555 1,211 1,926 1,796 1,856 1,270 1,452 1,735 1,840 2,911 3,024 1,580 2,421 3,032 2,972 1,980 2,270 3,038 2,900 2,355 2,853 5,437 5,100 2,229 3,321 4,853 4,792 4,378 4,268 6,270 3,475 3,016 2,703 5,958 4,524 5,758 4,795 5,337 5,873 5,351 6,176 5,282 5,427 6,270 7,142 5,271 5,254 4,778 7,415 8,853 10,438 3,964 9,485 8,600 14,532 5,820 12,278 10,000 10,000

0.13 0.12 0.12 0.15 0 0 0.12 0 0.22

1 1 1 2 3 3 3 4 2 2 5 2 4 3 4 2 3 4 3 4 4 2 4 5 3 3 4 5 3 3 4 4 4 3 3 5 5 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 3 5 5 5 6 6 5 5 5 4 6 5 5 5 7 6 6 3 6 5 7 5 6 6 5

1 1 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 2 3 2 3 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 4 3 5 3 5 3 4 9 6 7 3 4 4 4 4 6 5 7 7 7 4 7 6 9 5 7 5 7

South Parkway South of Post Road South Parkway South of Post Road Byram South of Post Road Byram Pemberwick Cos Cob South of Post Road Glenville South of Post Road Glenville South of Post Road Riverside Cos Cob Riverside Cos Cob North Mianus Banksville Banksville South of Post Road Cos Cob South of Post Road South of Post Road Riverside Riverside Old Greenwich Old Greenwich Riverside Riverside Old Greenwich South of Post Road South of Post Road South of Post Road South Parkway South Parkway North Parkway South of Post Road Cos Cob North Parkway South Parkway South Parkway South of Post Road South of Post Road South of Post Road Old Greenwich Old Greenwich South Parkway Riverside Riverside South Parkway South Parkway South Parkway North Parkway North Parkway South Parkway North Parkway South Parkway South Parkway North Parkway North Parkway Old Greenwich Riverside South Parkway South Parkway Old Greenwich South of Post Road South Parkway North Parkway

$570 $585 $398 $747 $877 $999 $462 $608 $485 $603 $600 $560 $626 $559 $662 $644 $589 $518 $711 $757 $836 $573 $537 $465 $1,386 $611 $767 $571 $1,804 $876 $1,400 $1,475

0.23 0 0.2 0.42 0.24 0.45 0.79 10 0.14 0.25 0.5 0.24 0.26 0.4 0.2 0.16 0.32 1.55 0.28 0 0.31 1.89 1.03 5 1.5 0 4.5 1.31 0.28 0.29 0.55 0.35 0.3 0.84 0.44 0.28 0.7 2.21 0.38 10.51 2.19 0.51 4.01 0.62 2 4.14 4.12 0.28 0.45 0.73 4 0.69 2.17 3.81 12.87

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Condos, a Vital & Growing Part of the Market By Mark Pruner Condos have been quietly playing a bigger and bigger role in Greenwich. in 2012 condos were only 22% of our market by 2017 they had soared to over 36% of our residential market. Since 2012, they have continued each year to be over 30% of sales compared to single family home sales. Condos this year have done about the same as last year. However, the mix of what is selling has changed. In this Covid era, we are seeing more sales of townhouses and fewer sales of apartment style condominiums. So far this year we have 62 sales of condominiums and co-ops. (All condo references and numbers in this report include co-ops as they trade almost like condos.) As is true of most years, these sales are concentrated under $600,000. For many people condominiums are an affordable way to get into the Greenwich housing market and for downsizers are a way to stay in the Greenwich that they love. The other thing we've seen in the last few years is the growth in new higher end condominiums, those priced above $2,000,000. As of the end of May, we

had 1 2 9 condom i n iu m s on the market. Our median list pr ic e w a s $98 5 ,0 0 0 wh i le our medium sales price was $612,500. We had listings from $75,000 all the way up to $5 million. (OK the $75,000 listing was actually a boat slip but it’s legally a condo, though we don’t have the housing boats in Greenwich as you see in places like Sausalito, California. Our lowest real condo listing is priced at $199,750.) On the sales side our lowest sales price so far this year is $248,000 while our highest sale so far is $3.2 million. L i k e h o u s e s we h ave a certain seasonality to condo purchases. Over the last 10 years, condo sales tend to peak in June, however they do not drop off as much in the fourth quarter. The first quarter also does have rising condo sales, but it is not as steep as we see for single family homes. The result is that condo sales are spread throughout the year. Also, given the smaller number of sales the graph tends to jump around month to month much more in condo sales. Condos as you would expect sale for a little less per square foot than houses , but not that much last. Our house dollar per square foot is around $500 per

square foot whereas the median price for condos is $450 per square foot. This is even more remarkable when you consider that the price per square foot for a single-family home obviously includes the land cost too. The reason that we're seeing such high prices is that condos are often sit on some of our most valuable land. They are located usually within a half a mile of the Post Rd where land prices or h ig her a nd a re of ten i n downtown areas where prices are even higher. You see a concentration of condos as you would expect in downtown Greenwich, but we also have a fair number i n Pem b er w ick a nd i n Old Greenwich. What many people may miss is that Chickahominy just west of downtown Gre enw ich has a bu nch of relatively new condos at the end of streets off of Hamilton Ave. I'm l ist i ng one of t he se condos this week at 8 View Street , the street across from the Two Door restaurant and Bella Cucina. This is a 3300 square foot unit with a twocar garage and even its own small yard which is unusual for a condominium. It has a large balcony with winter water views of Long Island Sound. This 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath

CHARTS RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM SALES.

condo is listed for $1,199,0000. That condo is on the larger size for Greenwich. Condo sizes vary from studios at 585 square feet to large town houses at close to 5000 square feet. Our median condo size is around 1,500 s.f. On average, our condos stay on the market for 141 days and we have about a 7.5 months of supply of condos. The lower the price, the lower the months of supply we have. In 2011 we only sold 128 condos in Greenwich however by 2015 the market had recovered strongly, and we sold 210 condominiums. Since then we've been roughly around 2 0 0 c o n do m i n iu m s a l e s a year. Last year, in 2019, was a slower year for both houses and condominiums, as we only had 159 condo sales and only 526 house sales. Last year was the year that the Tax Cut and Job Act with its limitation on mortgage and property ta x deductibility really cut into the Greenwich real estate market. This year the condo market, like houses, started off the year doing well. The last two months things have slowed down with the Covid virus. We are seeing go o d i ntere st f rom buyers looking to get out of New York City, particularly in those condo units that don't share common

elements, such as elevators and hallways, with the other units. Townhouse style condos are very popular. When you look at months of supply, we have a competitive market all the way up to $1.5 million. We have a big jump in months of supply from $1.5 to 2 million as we have a bunch of new condos coming on in that price range. At the very high end, over $2 million for condos, we have a bunch of new condos whose prices are challenging previous highs particularly when you look at the price per square foot. These units are going to contract, many are waiting for C.O’s before closing. Overall, our condo market is an important element in the diversity of Greenwich. Many of the smaller towns in Fairfield County have only a very small percentage of condominiums. One of the great things about having the number of condos that we have is that people who want to downsize to a more ma i ntena nce-f re e l i fe st yle don't have to leave town to do so. We also see many of these downsizers become snowbirds and spend winters at houses in Florida and other places and come back for summers in Greenwich. A s we recover f rom the

Covid virus, condo sales should rebound. We have 32 contracts waiting to close or more than half of the sales we have seen so far this year. We are also seeing a fair number of people from New York looking at condos in Greenwich. For many of these New Yorkers, the question may be a condo in Greenwich or a small house in Stamford or Norwalk. Fa m i l ie s te nd to go for the smaller houses, though you actually see a surprising number of children at certain condo complexes, whose parents prefer the Greenwich schools. Couples tend to like the condos over houses and also like being closer to their jobs in New York City. As in the past few years, condo sales will likely be around a third of our market this year. Condos are one of the things that make Greenwich Greenw ich and maintain its vitality and they are an important part of our real estate market. Mark Pruner is a Realtor in Greenwich, CT with Berkshire Hathaway and he has been the Greenwich Sentinel Real Estate page editor since 2015. He can be reached 203-969-7900 or mark@bhhsne.com

Another Kind of House This much inhabited cedar wren nest box hanging in Stephen Marino\'s backyard tree has an impressive provenance. Photo by Anne W. Semmes

By Anne W. Semmes In this locked down time G r e e n w i c h n a t i ve S t e p h e n Marino has been busily building nest boxes for those backyard songbirds, the house wren. It’s a craft he mastered over 40 years ago during one of those gypsy moth outbreaks. He was seeing the decimating defoliation of his giant oak trees, losing nearly all their leaves to the devouring gypsy moth caterpillars. Ye s s i r, i n 1 9 8 1 n e a r l y 80 percent of Con necticut ’s forestland suffered a defoliation. So, Marino, being a person who responds responsibly to a crisis - he’s a veteran of the Korean War - thought who eats gypsy moths? “Birds eat insects,” he knew. “And there were a lot of wrens around here,” he says, waving his arm about his verdant backyard in backcountry. M a r i n o i s on r e c or d for having built 50 wren nest boxes in those outbreak years, and g iven them away to a nyone wanting to keep their leaves,

with his witness: “The wrens were eating the g ypsy moth caterpillars that were eating the leaves.” But he kept three of those wren nest boxes that are hanging about his house surely filled with wren nestlings at this writing. One box hanging in a dogwood tree he confirmed has “a new family that emptied out the nest.” He does recommend cleaning the nest out yearly for the wrens. He shows how the box has a removable panel for box cleaning. Today, Marino has built over 30 nest boxes, and again is giving them away to bird lovers. A pile awaiting new owners sits on his patio. “The wrens begin their nesting in early May,” he says, but, “They’ll nest all through May and June until early fall, August and September.” “The secret to this thing,” he tells of his crafting, “is its light construct.” Lifting one up to the breeze he says, “It’s almost like a violin - it resonates.” His building supply comes from bundles of cedar shingles.

“Sh i ng les come i n d if ferent w idths.” He can make 4 5 to 5 0 w r e n n e s t b oxe s o u t o f one bundle of cedar shingles. He’s perfected his construct to building it in five and a half minutes. Belatedly, he’s thinking he should have a patent for his design, “Cedar Bird 09”. “To convert a shingle into a useful bird house is attractive, light weight, and very strong, and wrens like them,” he argues, “But, I’ll need endorsements.” Perhaps M a r i no’s you ng g randson can prov ide an endorsement. Marino tells the story of that visiting grandson suddenly seeing from the patio four tiny wren chicks raised in that dogwood tree that had fallen out or jumped from the wren nest box. “They were doing their best to hide in the grass. The mother was very agitated. She kept track of those birds. It was like a side show.” But , by n ig ht fa l l, a s t he grandson watched, “All four were able to climb back up the tree, navigate out onto a branch, hop onto the roof, then on to the peg built in front of the entrance, then disappear back inside their nest.” A testament to safe lodging indeed. Postscript: Those interested in acquiring a Stephen Marino cedar wren nest box can email him at cedarbird09@gmail.com.

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