January 8, 2021 by Greenwich Sentinel

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January 8, 2021

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Greenwich Health Department Prepares for Vaccinations By Richard Kaufman A s t he ma s sive vacc i ne r ol lout continues around the country, Greenwich is preparing to inoculate residents as the state of Connecticut moves through the first phase of distribution. Currently, Connecticut is in Phase 1A of the vaccine distribution, which began last month. The initial rollout includes health care workers, medical first responders and nursing home and assisted living facility residents. Earlier this week, Gov. Ned Lamont's vaccination allocation advisory team met to finalize recommendations for who will receive shots in phase 1B. As of press time on Wednesday, those recommendations were not known. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recommended in recent weeks that Phase 1B include people aged 75 and over, frontline essential workers, like police, firefighters, teachers, and grocery store employees. Phase 1B could begin by the end of January or early February. Those aged 65-74, and those under 65 who are high risk would be a part of 1C. The CDC has left it up to the states to ultimately decide who gets vaccinated next. The general public is expected to get their shots in the late spring, early summer. In order to get a vaccine in Connecticut, Lamont said earlier this week that appointments will have to be made online.

"We are going to do this online, and if you don't have online, make a phone reservation," he said. Lamont added that the vaccine will be rolled out to pharmacies -- like CVS and Walgreens -- over the next couple of weeks, so as the population for eligible people broadens, it will be easier to get their shots. Right now, those pharmacies are working with nursing and assisted living facilities on vaccinations. The CD C ha s u rge d employer s , healthcare providers, and other authorized organizations to use the web-based Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS), which was developed by the federal government. VAMS allows employers to upload lists of employees and determine who is essential and high risk. Vaccine recipients then get an email when it's their turn, and they can register on VAMS and schedule an appointment at any vaccine clinic in the state. VAMS is also a tool that allows for vaccine tracking and data collection. Caroline Baisley, Greenwich's Director of Health, said it's unclear at the moment how online scheduling will work in the future as more phases are rolled out, but the town will do all it can to get people vaccinated, especially those who are not employed and those who do not have access to a computer. Baisley urged residents to be patient and wait for their turn in line. Information will be released when it's available and

posted on the town website. "There's always a little anxiousness of, 'Gee, when am I going to be next?' It all depends on how much vaccine we get, and how quickly it goes through the other priority groups. Sometimes it can be slower than you want it to be," Baisley said. Seniors will be a main focus for the health department, Baisley acknowledged. According to her, 18% of Greenwich's population is over 65. "The seniors, that's the group we're going to try and heavily serve when the time comes, which will hopefully be sooner than later. We'll make sure that they absolutely know that it's time to get an appointment [for a vaccine]," she said. "We're not going to miss you. We can't vaccinate you ahead of time until your priority group is called. Try to be patient. There's no pre-registration. You can't call the health department and say, 'Put me on a list.' There is no list." The health department will have COVID vaccine clinics set up at places like Town Hall, the Eastern Greenwich Civic Center, and Western Greenwich Civic Center -- similar to the locations used for the annual influenza vaccine. Baisley also said that there will be a drive-thru clinic in the spring when the weather is better. The health department performed a test run last fall to see how the drive-thru will work. But there are several challenges the health department faces, Baisley said.

Right now, after each vaccination, recipients must sit and be monitored for 10-15 minutes in case there is an adverse reaction to the shot, but that's slowing the vaccination process down. At Town Hall for example, Baisley must accommodate for a vaccination area and a resting area in a small space. Baisley is going to be actively recruiting medical professionals who have been given permission to administer the vaccine from the Governor -- such as veterinarians and dentists -- to see if they can help vaccinate for the health department. "I only have three nurses. We cannot sustain that kind of activity from January to December, several clinics a week. We wouldn't be able to handle that. We're a small department," Baisley said. But she expressed confidence in being able to get enough people to volunteer. "We have the Medical Reserve Corps, which is made up of nurses and doctors and other medical professionals, who help us do contact tracing. Hopefully they'll step up to the plate and help us vaccinate," Baisley added. T h e h e a lt h d e p a r t m e nt i s a l s o currently surveying all the doctors in town and freestanding clinics to see who is going to be a vaccine provider. The health department will most likely receive the Moderna vaccine, since it doesn't require the extreme cold storage that Pfizer needs. "I think the word at this point is it's

safe. If you're in a vulnerable category, you should really highly consider getting vaccinated," she said. Residents need to be mindful that the vaccine requires two doses. For Moderna, the recommended time between each dose is 28 days. Baisley encouraged residents to make sure they receive both shots, as close to on schedule as possible. She also said residents who have already had COVID-19 should get vaccinated, because immunity from the virus can wane after three months. "The vaccine will provide additional protection," Baisley said. Although the vaccine rollout around the country has been slow to start, and COVID cases continue to rise, Baisley believes as the days go by, things will become easier. "I hope that by the time we get into the spring, it will be a faster process and things will loosen up a bit, with a lot more vaccine and less restrictive measures down the road. Going toward the spring, it's all in our favor," she said. "To begin with, it's going to be kind of a little bit of a rocky road and kind of slow. It is what it is, and it's better than nothing. At least we have a vaccine to protect us, because you can't stay inside forever." For more information on vaccinations in Greenwich, go to the health department page at greenwichct.gov. Information on the rollout and future phases will be posted there as it becomes available.

Over 1,000 Transactions – One Amazing Year

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One thousand and three transactions, that’s what we did last year. These 1003 transactions consisted of 861 sales up 33 4 houses from 2019 or 63% and 142 contracts up 70 houses or almost a 100% increase. And, it wasn’t like these sales and contracts were concentrated in any particular price range. Literally, every price range, except our lowest price range was up. Even, the fact that sales under $600,000 were down, may indicate a stronger market as houses were priced out of our lowest price range and pushed over $600,000.

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be looking at over $300,000,000 of for sales which was set 16 years ultra-high-end sales (assuming the ago in 2004. That year we sold 978 John Street house gets close to list.) houses for a total of $2.17 billion dollars, and that number includes $2.3 billion in total home sales In total for 2020 sales, we had both public and private sales. $2.3 billion in single family home sales in 2020. This is in one year, in a town of only 62,000 people. Back in 2019, our total sales volume was only $1.25 billion meaning our total volume was up 84%, most of which happened in the second half of the year. What is really remarkable is that 2020’s $2.3 billion in public sales exceeds our previous record

A remarkable 2nd Half and 4th quarter The 4th quarter saw sales increase by 143% over the 4th quarter of 2019. Total sales volume increased even more from $251 Continued from Page 1 million in sales in the 4th quarter of 2019 to $804 million in sales or an increase of 221%. Even in this

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Calls to Action Kids in Crisis needs Dinner Donations. Prepare a home-cooked (or grab a healthy take out) meal. Be sure all meals are oven ready. Check out the Kids in Crisis website https://www.kidsincrisis.org/ or call Melissa Basile at 203 622-6556 for more information and no contact drop off options. Visit the Avon Theater Film Center. The Avon is back!!! Their historic theater is OPEN. Masks are required, and since they have reduced seating in order to observe social distancing, they suggest purchasing tickets online. Enhanced ventilation, new cleaning and safety protocols are in place throughout the building. Check out the Avon theatre website for movie listings: http://avontheatre.org/

By Jill S. Woolworth, LMFT There is a romantic notion that a spouse can b e “my e ve r y- t h i n g .” This idea is false. Our spouse cannot be our 24/7 charging station. Nor can we plug into ourselves. Couples need a wide circle of friends and advisors, as well as a transcendent s ou r c e of st r eng t h , to provide meaning to life. Contemplative practices and faith can rem ind us that we are part of a larger, loving c o m m u n i t y. T h e s e practices encourage us and challenge us to become our best selves. Love cannot be s o l e l y s e l f- g e n e r a t e d or demanded from our partner when our ow n batter y is low. It takes time and community to cultivate. By developing a broad net work of suppor t ive

you have 861 sales in a year, 15 sales may not sound like that much, but those 15 sales totaled $217,400,000. If you start with our least expensive sale and go up, you need 224 sales to total the $217 million represented by these 15 years. Our over $10 million market was actually better than that. These are the Greenwich MLS sales numbers, and they don’t include the $42 million sale on Indian Head Road in Riverside, nor does it yet include the John Street contract for Tommy Hilfiger’s house listed at $47,500,000. If you include just those two sales, you’d

Our biggest winners this year compared to last are sales and contracts from $3 million all the way up to $40 million. In all 5 of these high-end price categories, transactions were up by over 100%. By numbers, we saw an increase of 155 more houses sold or under contract at our high-end. The biggest winner for the year was the $3 – 4 million price range where sales were up 132% from 53 sales last year to 123 sales this year. In our highest price range, over $10 million, sales were up 114% from 7 to 15 this year. Now when

Illustrated by Wajih Chaudhry

By Mark Pruner

relationships and a source of meaning beyond ourselves, we can override our human tendency to default to fear — including fear that our partner is somehow at fault for not meeting our every need. Aa r o n a n d W h i t n e y have a wide circle of trustworthy friends and share a meditation practice as part of their faith . They believe in a source of love bigger than themselves. When Aaron lost his job and Whitney developed a serious illness during the same year, they had a “charging station” l a rg e e n o u g h t o p o w e r them up. G re e nwi c h re s i d e n t , Jill Woolworth is author of the book, The Waterwheel, which is available locally at Diane's Books (203-8691515) or info@dianesbooks. com) or at Amazon.

Order breakfast or lunch at the newly opened Café at Greenwich Library. The cafe is a partnership between the Greenwich Library and Abilis and is now open for No-Contact Pick Up. Place an order online at greenwichlibrarycafe.org or call 203-622-7992. Order pick up is outside the Main Library branch in the Baxter Courtyard anytime between 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday through Saturday. Help replenish Neighbor to Neighbor’s food pantry: items most needed are tuna, canned meats , peanut butter, cereal, larger-sized diapers and un-expired infant formula. Drop off locations and times: Tuesday 9am-11am (drive thru) across the street from St. Catherine of Siena Parish on Riverside Avenue or Thursday 10am-12pm (drive thru) located in the parking lot of St. Paul’s Church in Riverside. Join the Pay it Forward Greenwich Facebook Group. This group highlights a variety of drives weekly where Greenwich Residents pay it forward with items they no longer use. Invite one friend to buy a subscription to the Greenwich Sentinel or buy it for them as a gift at www. GreenwichSentinel.com/subscribe Donate Blood Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. Visit www.redcross.org to find a drive in Greenwich.

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Puzzles for Kids and Adults

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Astrology for Week of Jan. 10, 2021 on Page 14 Movie Review of The Midnight Sky on Page 14

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Come and take your GELATO home for the Holidays! We are open throughout the winter and have Take-Home in 3 sizes as well as custom made Gelato cakes. Our products are made fresh daily with dairyfree, vegan, and nut-free flavors available. Call us for pick-up orders or find us on GrubHub, Seamless and UberEats! (203) 900-1288. 232 East Putnam Ave, Cos Cob. Mon-Fri 3pm to 9pm, closed Wed., Sat-Sun 12pm to 9pm.

Randy’s Wines is a boutique wine and spirits shop serving the Cos Cob community for over thirty years. Our expert team has curated a vast and varied selection of hidden gems from around the world. We offer top value on new and interesting wines we guarantee you’ll love. We have the best beer selection in Greenwich and craft liquors you’ll find nowhere else. We’d like to warmly welcome all patrons of Cos Cob Liquor and to wish our friend George the best in retirement. Sign up for our newsletter on RandysWines.com and ask about our wine club! Monday-Saturday: 9-8 / Sunday: 10-5 (we deliver!)

Trovare Home offers a curated and collected look of both modern and vintage home décor. For over 20 years Trovare has been the “go-to” store for stylish home furnishings and décor. Visit our shop and learn about our design services. 245 East Putnam Avenue, 203-869-5512 Open daily 10:30am to 4:30pm.

Beam & Barre has everything you need for dance and gymnastics! They have something for dancers of all ages from your tiny dancer to the professional ballerina. Tutus, wands and tiaras satisfy your little dancer’s imagination, while an impressive range of pointe shoes and dancewear will have every dancer excited for class and performance. Their staff has the expertise to find exactly what you need! 241 East Putnam Avenue, 203-622-0591, Monday - Friday - 10-6, Saturday - 10-5.

Take a step off the Post Road into The Drawing Room and you are transported to the perfect blend of a café (with hand blended teas, freshly baked treats, or an artisanal sandwich with daily soup), an interior design studio, a boutique with hand-picked items for your home, and an art gallery. Welcome to The Drawing Room. 5 Suburban Avenue, 203.661.3737. Open Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 5pm. Open Monday, December 20th for bonus holiday

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With the holidays in full swing, it's the season of giving and the First Bank of Greenwich (FBOG) is making sure that season lasts all year with our unique Charitable Checking Program that supports local non-profits 12 months a year. Giving has always been part of the bank’s mission. As a true community bank, we want to be able to help as many people as we can and the Charitable Checking Program allows us all to do that. Learn more about Charitable Checking, contact Emily Newcamp at the First Bank of Greenwich at (203) 302-4382

With 35 years of experience, we offer custom window treatments and full-service interior design – whether you need help in just one room or your entire home. We don’t believe in a “one-style fits all” approach and truly work with each of our clients to get them the results and style they want within their budget. DRAPERIES & INTERIORS of Greenwich

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Il Pastaficio always and only provides the very best artisanal Italian products of the highest quality using organic and genuine flour, without adding any preservatives or chemical additives. It is an authentic Italian experience. 213 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-900-1199 Delivery available. Open daily 11:00am to 8:00pm

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What is the Hurry?

COLUMN

By Patricia Murphy My teenage daughter asked me the other day, her voice filled with the aggrieved angst of the unjustly put upon, “What is the hurry?” We were trying to do something nice for someone, something that was entirely inadequate to the particular circumstance, like a finger in the proverbial dam, but I had injected into the exercise a breathless urgency that suggested we just solved the problem of world peace. I’m not exactly proud that my response was, ‘because I said so’ (although it did the trick, so bravo to me), but since then, I have continued to ponder the question, and here is what I will tell her, before I miss the chance. First, I w ill say thank you, for reminding me that to be young is to be unhurried, and that is a good thing. Sometimes in our f ixation to

...because every act of kindness and compassion, goodness and charity adds energy to the former and helps extinguish the momentum of the latter. be productive we who are no longer quite so young can miss something important, such as the experience itself. As I focused on finishing that project I forgot to be grateful that I was doing it with her – my daughter - who just yesterday loved Cinderella and Frozen and was afraid of the dark. I forgot to capture her awkward, emerging figure standing next to me with a spatula, lo ok i ng ut terly b ore d, but t here , nonetheless; forgot to thank God for her, to memorize every facet of that moment,

which like all the others slipped through my fingers like fog. At the same time, I will remind her that to be older is to have the gift of perspective and that too, is a good thing. We know better the pain of loss, the sting of regret and the relentlessness of time, and if we are lucky have come to understand that, in the end, the only lasting transforming power in life is love. We have a clarity that often the things we thought were big are ultimately insignificant, and the things

we thought were small are in fact the only things that matter. And to me, one of the biggest of those small things is the importance of little deeds, the urgency of them, each and every day. I don’t know many things for sure, I will tell her, but I have a feeling that what we choose to do, you and I - all of us, the entire human race - contributes to the balance of good or bad in the world. Look around, I will ask, which side seems to be gaining strength? Mistrust, hopelessness, rage, despair

appear on the ascendant. So, if we have the opportunity to do something good, however small, we must do it with all our hearts, because every act of kindness and compassion, goodness and charity adds energy to the former and helps extinguish the momentum of the latter. T hat me a n s e ach of u s … her e in our ow n home…in Greenw ich… in Connecticut…in the US… across the globe… has the power, indeed the responsibility, to change the world. Then my daughter w ill eye me suspiciously, arms across her chest, her voice betraying skepticism and wonder as she asks, “Is that true?” And I will smile before replying with a shrug, “Maybe not… but then again, maybe… And that, my dear, is very much the hurry.”

Greenwich COVID-19 Update By Richard Kaufman First Selectman Fred Camillo and Greenwich Hospital President Diane Kelly gave their weekly COVID-19 briefing on Wednesday. As of Jan. 5, since last week, there has been an increase of 233 COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of Greenwich cases since the pandem ic began to 2,665. Since last week, active cases have increased by 70 to 235. The total death toll has also increased, from 67 to 73. At Greenwich Hospital, numbers have remained consistent. As of Jan. 5, 36 COVID-19 patients were being treated in house -- the same number reported last Wednesday. As of Jan. 5, five patients were in the Intensive Care Unit; four were on ventilators. "The numbers are the same, which

means we're really not decreasing. The number of people coming in and being discharged is pretty constant," said Kelly. "This goes to the mantra we've been saying. Social distancing is extremely important, as is wearing masks and good hand hygiene. We really have to keep our vigilance up on that." On the vaccination front, Yale New Haven Health System has inoculated 15,000 healthcare workers since Dec. 15. Greenwich Hospital has vaccinated 1,300 employees so far, with some people getting their final shots. Greenwich Hospital will expand its vaccinations outward when word comes down from the state on who will be next in line. Kelly urged residents to get vaccinated when their number is called. "When it comes time, it will be very important. We really need 80% of the

public to help curb the spread of this pandemic," she said. Camillo added that the town will put out information on vaccinations when it becomes available and when the time comes for the public to get their shots. "Rather than getting things out there and having to adjust, we don't want to put out information that people are going to take to the bank, and then find out we had to backtrack a little bit," he said. Phase 1B of the distribution, which could include people aged 75 and above, along with frontline essential workers, could begin as early as the end of January or early February. Camillo gave an update on Greenwich Point, which saw 4,762 visitors last week, and 2,700 vehicles. Six hundred vehicles had to be turned away because they had no Greenwich ID.

"We are going to be extending the people at the booth until the end of the month. We're still in that zone with capacity limits there. I know it's frustrating for a lot of people who live out of town and come in the winter time, but we're still in the middle of a pandemic. As soon as we're able to, we'll get back to normal with visitations from people outside our town borders, but we're not there yet," Camillo said. Since the pandemic began, the demand to get outside and remain active in a safe way has increased. Camillo said he recently spoke with a property owner in town who was looking to renovate. The man asked Camillo what he thought, and Camillo suggested the creation of more space -- a smaller footprint for the building itself, but more space for outdoor activity.

"Not only aesthetically is it nice, but it gives you that ability if God forbid there's another pandemic, to be outside without having to always get every single inch via permit with the town," he said. Kelly said that outdoor space has been very important in the healthcare industry, and it's part of Greenwich Hospital's vision with its new cancer center. "We should be using the outside more, we should be using fresh air more," Kelly said. "On the proposal for the cancer center that we're trying to work through, we actually have outside space that's adjacent to each of our infusion bays. For people who are sitting there getting an infusion, if they want to do part of that treatment in the outside space, that's part of our vision." Greenwich weekly COVID briefings will continue into February.

Updates from the BET at RMA

By Richard Kaufman

grip on COVID as we possibly can." would make it work. I can't see how investment," he said. "We have "We'll maintain and hold the the other communities, the smaller competition. There are a lot of Board of Estimate and Taxation rudder as tight as we can and keep the communities and the less financially communities vying for people looking Chair Michael Mason spoke virtually course that we're on going," Mason strong communities would handle to relocate. We're still top of the list in to the Retired Men's Association of added. He mentioned infrastructure that. But we'll have to see where that the services and amenities we offer Greenwich on Wednesday morning, as a need that w ill have to be goes," Mason said. as a community, and we want to try PUB/POST: Greenwich Sentinel (Stam- PRODUCTION: N/A HSS-2020-95 and outlined how the BoardCODE: operates ng None to keep funding those amenities, keep addressed ford) throughout - 10/9 issuethe (Dueupcoming Date: 10/1/2020) M a s on adde d t hat mov i LIVE: DESCRIPTION: Hannafin process and added that the forward WORKORDER #: 74939 TRIM: 11” x 10.5”taxes stable, and deal with and what he sees as challenges ahead. Dr.budget the town needs to "maintain those Mason spoke about FILE: how03A-74933-07C-HSS-2020-95-V1.indd the biggest challenge he anticipates is its fiscal discipline." the challenges. Sometimes it takes a SAP #: HSS.HSSGEN.20005.B.011 BLEED: None BET responded to the COVID crisis dealing with the unfunded liability in "It's one of the things that I lot of dialogue." Mason took several 212.237.7000 last spring, when town departments the state pension plan, and the town's think when people historically have questions from the audience on a reduced operating budgets in town plan. "The state has had dialogue looked at the town of Greenwich, it's variety of topics. Mason was asked departments back to where they were about shifting the unfunded liability always been a blue chip investment, why the town doesn't utilize longin that fiscal year. back to the local municipalities. I can a safe community, a place to educateT:11”term financing, and if it could allow He said the Board has "as much a speak for Greenwich, as always we your children, a good real estate for more projects to be completed

around town. "Financing and the ability to do projects are not connected," Mason explained. "If we appropriated all of [the funds that the Board of Education has for projects], and said, 'Yes, let's do all of that tomorrow.' Would it get done tomorrow? No, it wouldn't. There are logistics that go into place." Later this month, the Representative Town Meeting is set to take up a Sense of the Meeting Resolution (SOTMR) brought forth by District 9, that seeks the formation of a building committee for the Cardinal

Stadium improvement project. Mason was asked if he supported a building committee, and he pointed out that the town charter does not require such a committee because the project is not eligible for state reimbursement. Mason believes the SOTMR is part of a question about how the town is managing capital projects and assets. Aside from the pandemic and worrying about employment and staying healthy, Mason said he feels most residents are concerned with seeing expenses in the town go up.

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COLUMNS

Let’s Make Greenwich Avenue Two-Way Again!

By Police Chief Jim Heavey

Now that I have your attention, I assure you I’m not proposing anything quite so radical. Rather, I’m updating you on r e c ent ch a nge s to policing on Greenwich Avenue. Off icers have been redeployed so that instead of working f ixed traff ic posts, they are either on the bike team, foot patrol, or the ORCA team which addresses crime concerns in the central Greenwich commercial area. On Monday, January 25, t he RT M w i l l vote on t he effectiveness of these changes. Before t hey do, I’d li ke to explain how policing on the Avenue has changed over the years. Note that I speak with authority, not just as your police chief but as someone who grew up on Lewis Street. I was an altar server at St. Mary Church when the Avenue was still two-way, and I worked after school for Ray Dunn at the old Greenwich Drug Store. Yes, I am so old that I still look both ways when I cross Greenwich Ave! It was i n 1970 t hat t he Av e n u e w a s c h a n g e d t o one-way to improve traff ic f l ow, a n d p o l i c e o f f i c e r s remained stationed at three i nte r s e c t ion s . Eve n t he n , seeing an of f icer assig ned to a static traffic post was a rare site anywhere in New England except perhaps in the summertime up on Cape Cod. Those summer traff ic officers were usually college kids dressed as police officers a nd g iven a few we ek s of limited training. (Two words: risk management) In 2010, my predecessor removed the officer from the intersection of Greenwich Ave and Lewis Street. Some of the local merchants were upset, but the absence of an officer on Lewis Street did not result in traffic mayhem and allowed us to cover other emerging issues. When I became chief, we ret u r ne d a n of f icer to Lewis Street twice a year:

during the week of sidewalk sales (with reimbursement from the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce) and between Black Friday and New Year’s Eve. There was no additional officer to spell the Lewis Street officer on his or her breaks, so we had to pull a patrol post officer to provide relief. In 2019 the department recog nized that there was an increase in a number of cr imes in the dow ntow n area, including large scale shopl i f t i ng , ident it y t hef t and misuse of fraudulent or stolen credit cards, which had signif icant impact on local residents and merchants. The police department hosted a daylong seminar for business owners and store managers on how we c ou ld p a r t ner to thwart these f inancially impactful crimes. We created a sp e c ia l te a m c a l le d t he Organized Retail Criminal Activity (ORCA) Team. ORCA of f icers dressed in plain clothes and worked with shop ow ners, w it h outsta nd i ng results. In just the last year t hey have i nvestigated 4 8 cases, resulting in 41 persons being arrested for 65 felonies, 37 misdemeanors and dozens of infractions. Many of these lo c a l a r re sts were t ie d to major regional cases being investigated by federal law enforcement agencies. We continue to work with our federal partners mak ing some very significant arrests. Many of these suspects have been tied to violent crimes committed elsewhere. ORCA has prevented countless c r i me s, a ssiste d agenc ie s in solving similar crimes in other communities, and is now a model for other police agencies. W hen t he COV I D -19 Pandemic struck our community in March of 2 0 2 0, t h e t r a f f i c o f f i c e r s had few vehicles to control and nearly no one to assist in crossing the street. We r e deploye d t hem to ot her important pandemic-related t a sk s , i nclud i ng b o o st i ng t he nu m b er of of f icers at Greenwich Point and other town parks in response to a considerable increase in the use of these resources. These officers helped maintain social distancing requirements and deterred activities that might have spread COVID-19. Months later, we partnered with other town departments to facilitate reopening the

Av e n u e w i t h n o d e s f o r outdoor dining and shopping. We r e c o g n i z e d we wou ld have more p ol ici ng to do, but fewer officers to do it. To better respond to new ways people visited the Avenue, we returned officers to patrolling on foot and on bicycles. This police presence will soon be en ha nced by fou r electr ic bicycles, donated by a town resident. A bit more history of officers on the avenue A 1937 study of the GPD by the Public Administration S e r v i c e ( PA S ), a p r i v a t e consultant hired by the town, recommended the following: “Ever y man who can be spared from specialized assignments without crippling necessar y work should be assigned to regular uniformed patrol duty.” The study also recommends “the substitution of traff ic lights for off icers now on fixed traffic posts on Greenwich Avenue as soon as possible.” I n 19 98 PA S pu bl i she d “Management Study of the Greenwich Police Department, A Model for Excellence.” In this study it recommended that foot patrol and bicycle off icers replace off icers on posts. It urged redeploying highly trained officers to actual p o l i c e wo r k a s s i g n m e nt s rather than traff ic control. PAS suggested replacing the officers with less-expensive c iv i l ia n s, however t h is is prohibited by current state statutes. In 2007 the RTM voted to continue having off icers assigned to the Avenue, rather than traffic lights. W hen I b e come a f u l ltime officer in 1986, we had 175 police of f icers. This nu m b e r r e m a i n e d s te a dy until after 2000, when the number dropped to 156. (Some positions were converted to civilian positions to staff the joint public safety dispatch center, which answers 9-11 calls and dispatches police, fire and EMS.) This was our strength until 2018 when the number of sworn officers was reduced by one position to 155. In 2019 we lost another position, a nd i n 2020 t wo more positions fell victim to a $300,000 budget reduction. As of July 1,, 2020, the department has 152 swor n f ull-time of f icers. Thus, during my tenure at GPD police officer strength has decreased by

over 10% and during the same time frame the population of Greenwich has increased by about 5%. Staffing traffic direction on Greenwich Avenue with three f ixed traff ic posts requires five officers a day. In addition, t he s e of f ic e r s ne e d to b e replaced when on vacation, in training or out sick. What you see is not what you get S o , i t ’s n o t t r u e t h a t there are fewer off icers on Greenwich Avenue now than w h e n t h ey we r e on f i xe d traffic posts. On News Years’ Eve, I walked the Avenue to f ind Off icer Repik directing traff ic on Havemeyer Place. (Off icers are empowered to direct traffic whenever they see a need.) I saw Off icers Smurlo and D’Inverno patrolling on bicycles. I noted O f f icer s H a l l a nd Da ly i n civilian clothes, checking with retailers and communicating new information about recent activity. What’s old is new again In January, the RTM will t a ke up t he su bje c t aga i n with a “Sense of the Meeting Resolution” (SOMA.) While a vote to restore officers to fixed traff ic posts on the Avenue would be non-binding and not mandatory, it would be a virtual vote of “no confidence” in the efforts by the Greenwich Police Department to address emerging crime trends and to align limited police resources with the needs of the community. I hope the RTM will recognize that Greenwich continues to be a special place to live and work, but in order to remain resilient we have to adapt to change. In this case, policing Greenwich Avenue is much different than it was 125 years ago when the GPD was first organized. I sincerely believe that the use of foot and bike mounted patrols, alongside our ORCA program, provides the best service to the Greenwich community and that the return of police off icers directing traff ic on Greenwich Avenue would be a detriment to these efforts. This great community deserves a police department that will continue to adapt to changing conditions which optimizes its ability to protect and serve the Town of Greenwich.

TAX NOTICE CONSOLIDATED REAL ESTATE PROPERTY TAXES TOWN OF GREENWICH THIS IS A REMINDER FROM YOUR TAX COLLECTOR

The Second Installment of Town Real Property and Sewage System Maintenance Taxes are due January 1, 2021 and must be paid by February 1, 2021. Delinquent taxes are subject to an interest charge of 1.5 % per month (A fraction of a month is defined by statute as a whole month) from the installment due date. Minimum interest charge is $2.00. Taxes may be paid by mail or at the Tax Collector Office, Town Hall located at 101 Field Point Road, from 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. You may pay online with a credit card or electronic check (ACH/EFT). A convenience fee is charged by the provider for this service. Any taxpayer who pays by check must submit the second half remittance stub with the payment and the canceled check will be the receipt.

TAX NOTICE SUPPLEMENTAL MOTOR VEHICLES PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES

The Tax Collector of the Town of Greenwich hereby gives notice that any person who registered a Motor Vehicle between October 2, 2019 and July 3l, 2020 is liable for the payment of property taxes due January l, 2021 and must be paid by February 1, 2021 without penalty as per Public Act 76-338 as amended (as enacted by the Connecticut State Legislature). Taxes are delinquent if not paid by February 1, 2021, subject to interest at the rate of 1.5 % per month (A fraction of a month is defined by statute as a whole month) from the due date. Minimum interest charge is $2.00. Taxes may be paid by mail or at the Tax Collector Office, Town Hall located at 101 Field Point Road, from 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. You may pay online with a credit card or electronic check (ACH/EFT). A convenience fee is charged by the provider of this service. Any taxpayer who pays by check must submit the second half remittance stub with the payment and the canceled check will be the receipt. Tax Collector Town of Greenwich

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR PLANNER GREENWICH LIBRARIES: greenwichlibrary.org Jan. 8 10 A.M. Virtual – Senior Chinese Book Discussion Group. 203-622-7920. ywang@ greenwichlibrary.org 2 P.M. Virtual: Spotlight on Apps: Libby. Register. 203625-6560. csherman@ greenwichlibrary.org 3:45 P.M. Virtual – World Music with Anitra from the Flinn Gallery. lmatthews@ greenwichlibrary.org Jan. 9 11 A.M. Virtual Drop-in Computer Lab. 203-625-6560. trainingcenter@ greenwichlibrary.org 11 A.M. Virtual – Mad Science presents Freaky Lab! (Children). Free. Register. 203-622-7920. dsullivan@ greenwichlibrary.org 1 P.M. Virtual: Cloak and Dagger Book Club. Free. Register. 203-622-6883. Jan. 11 10 A.M. Virtual – Story Time (Toddler, Preschool). Free. Register. dsullivan@ greenwichlibrary.org 4 P.M. Virtual: Make It Monday (Grades K-2). 203-625-6534. ghayes@greenwichlibrary. org 7 P.M. Virtual: Data Analytics. Free. Register. 203625-6533. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org 7 P.M. Virtual: Intro to Networking and LinkedIn for High School and College Students. Register. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org Jan. 12 10 A.M. Virtual – Weekly Job Search Accelerator Group. Free. Register. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org 10:30 A.M. Virtual – Maritime Aquarium Meet the Animals: Seals! (Grades Pre K-2). Free. Register. 203-622-7940. children@ greenwichlibrary.org 11 A.M. Virtual Drop-in Computer Lab. 203-625-6560. trainingcenter@ greenwichlibrary.org 11:30 A.M. Virtual – Bloomberg Training. Free. Register. 203-622-7910. ywang@ greenwichlibrary.org 1 P.M. Virtual: Friends Book Group. 203-622-7938. 3 P.M. Virtual – Intro to 3D Printing. Free. Register. 203-6227979. innovationlab@ greenwichlibrary.org 4 P.M. Virtual: Yoga for Kids with Kristin DeGroat. 203-5310426. 4 P.M.

Chess Club (Grades K-5). Free. Register. children@ greenwichlibrary.org 5 P.M. Virtual: New Yorker Stories Discussion Group. Register. 203-622-6883. lmatthews@ greenwichlibrary.org 7 P.M. Virtual: SQL understanding of concepts of with extensive hands-on experience. Register. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org Jan. 13 10 A.M. Virtual – Story Time (Toddler, Preschool). dsullivan@ greenwichlibrary.org 12 P.M. Virtual: New Year, New Career: Ramp Up Your Post-Holiday Pandemic Job Search. Register. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org 1 P.M. Virtual – Get Started with Investing III: Building Financial Strategy. Free. Register. 203-622-7910. ywang@greenwichlibrary. org 7 P.M. Virtual – Cybersecurity. Free. Register. 203625-6533. mmartin@ greenwichlibrary.org 7 P.M. Virtual – ‘Our Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy in the 21st Century’. Free. Register. kpetrov@ greenwichlibrary.org Jan. 14 9 A.M. Virtual – Parent & Child Yoga for Tots (Ages 2-5). Via Zoom. dsullivan@ greenwichlibrary.org 10 A.M. Virtual – ‘Fiesta de los Cuentos’ - Bilingual Storytime. dsullivan@ greenwichlibrary.org 11:30 A.M. Virtual – Qi Gong, mindful movement and breathing. Register. 203622-6883. lmatthews@ greenwichlibrary.org 2 P.M. SCORE Webinar: SEO Simplified in 30 Minutes. Free. Register. 203-622-7910. ywang@ greenwichlibrary.org 4:30 P.M. Virtual – Food Explorers: Make Stacked Sweet Potato Fries. Register. lmatthews@ greenwichlibrary.org 5 P.M. Virtual: Proust Club. 203531-0426. 5 p.m. Virtual: Proust Group. 203531-0426. Jan. 15 10 A.M. Virtual – Simple and Nutritious Recipes for the New Year. 203-625-6549. 2 P.M. Virtual - Better Communication with Google Calendar and Gmail. 203-625-6508. trainingcenter@ greenwichlibrary.org 3:45 P.M.

Virtual – CactusHead Puppets Presents: "The Tale of Juan Bobo." Register. lmatthews@ greenwichlibrary.org 7 P.M. Virtual – Friends Friday Film Reel Talk: "The Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock." 203-622-7910. friendsfridayfilms@ greenwichlibrary.org PERROT LIBRARY: perrotlibrary.org/events Jan. 13 Virtual Discussion with author Rachel Cohen on her book, ‘Austen Years: A Memoir in Five Novels’. Via Zoom. Free. Register. GPS MAGNET SCHOOLS: greenwichschools.org/ magnetschools Virtual Open House - 20212022 School Year Jan. 12 New Lebanon: 9 a.m. (meet. google.com/ddn-wfxh-teu) The International School at Dundee: 6:30 p.m. (meet. google.com/vpw-qrqy-oub) Jan. 13 Hamilton Avenue: 9 a.m. (meet.google.com/suphwdv-gpw) New Lebanon: 6:30 p.m. (meet.google.com/ddnwfxh-teu) Jan. 14 The International School at Dundee: 9:15 A.M. (meet. google.com/bpx-tdao-eiq) Julian Curtiss: 6:30 p.m. (meet.google.com/qij-fkacnwe) Jan. 19 Julian Curtiss: 9:15 A.M. (meet.google.com/qij-fkacnwe) Hamilton Avenue: 6:30 p.m. (meet.google.com/suphwdv-gpw) Jan. 20 Western Middle School: 6:30 p.m. (meet.google.com/ nuv-rabh-vyx) Jan. 21 Western Middle School: 9 A.M. (meet.google.com/ nuv-rabh-vyx) GREENWICH HOSPITAL: greenwichhospital.org/ events 888-305-9253 Jan. 7 at 1 P.M. Webinar: ‘Clarifying Values for 2021 Resolutions’. Via Zoom. Jan. 9 at 9 - 11 A.M. CPR Friends & Family (Infant/Child). 38 Volunteer Ln. $65. For discount information call 888-3059253. Jan. 11 at 11 A.M. Webinar: “Preventing Falls: Practical Strategies.” Via Zoom. Register. Free. 12:30 P.M. Webinar: Knee Replacement Education. Via Zoom. Register. Free. Jan. 12 at 11 A.M. Webinar: “Identifying Upper Respiratory Illnesses.” Via Zoom.

Register. Free. 6 - 8 P.M. CPR Friends & Family (Infant/Child). 38 Volunteer Ln. $65. For discount information call 888-3059253. Jan. 13 11 A.M. Webinar: Effects of Exercise on Your Health. Via Zoom. Register. Free. 5 P.M. Webinar: Stroke Education Support Group - prevention, nutrition, safety and medication management. Via Zoom. Register. Free. 6 P.M. Webinar: New Treatments for Chronic Pain. Via Zoom. Register. Free. Jan. 14 1 P.M. Webinar: Virtual Support Group: Chronic Physical Disability. Via Zoom. Register. Free. FRIENDS OF BYRAM PARK: friendsofbyrampark.org Jan. 9 & 10 9 A.M. - 4 P.M. HOT CHOCOLATE in the Park - join the newlyforming Friends of Byram Park for hot chocolate and to learn more about them. Byram Park parking lot near the Christmas tree recycling drop-off area. Free. RETIRED MEN'S ASSOCIATION: greenwichrma.org/ speakers/future-speakers-3 Jan. 13 11 A.M. Webinar: Matthew Ritter, Prospective Speaker of the House of Representatives for the State of Connecticut: “Issues facing the 2021 CT Legislative Assembly.” Free. Register. HISTORICAL SOCIETY: greenwichhistory.org/visit Jan. 16 12 P.M. ‘In Lost Landscape Revealed: Childe Hassam and The Red Mill, Cos Cob, Works by Hassam and Impressionist Artists Demonstrate Importance of Cos Cob in History of American Art’ exhibit opens. Member Preview Days: Jan. 13-15. On view through March 28, 2021. ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE OF GREENWICH: afgreenwich.org Jan. 13 5 - 6 P.M. ‘Worldwide Wednesdays’ join in for lively discussions on French films. Open to all. Donation. RSVP for a Zoom link. ARCH STREET archstreet.org EVERY TUE. & THU., 4-5PM Virtual Yoga Takeover. 7th12th Grade Free. Online. Wednesday, By Appointment Only Open Studio. 7th-12th Grade. Free.

AUDUBON CENTER: greenwich.audubon.org/ events Jan. 9 6 P.M. ‘Bobcats: Our Feline Neighbors’. $10 & up. All ages are welcome. Registration is required. Ryan.MacLean@audubon. org. 203-930-1353.

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BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE: breastcanceralliance.org/ events Jan. 7 8 P.M. BCA + Sharsheret present a conversation about the book, ‘Beat Breast Cancer Like a Boss’ with author Ali Rogin. Register. CT CERAMICS CIRCLE ctcsc.org Jan. 11 2 P.M. The Influence of Dutch Delft on the Northern European Ceramics Factories. Via Zoom. Advance registration is required and donations are welcome. BRUCE MUSEUM: brucemuseum.org ‘House on the Hill’ - The Changing Face of the Bruce Museum. An online exhibition. NAMI SOUTHWEST CT: namisouthwestct.org/ online-support Jan. 13 at 6:30 P.M. NAMI-CAN (Child and Adolescent Network) Online Support Group for parents and primary caregivers of children and adolescents, under age 21, with behavioral and emotional issues (Every Wednesday). Free.

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ST. LAWRENCE SOCIETY stlawrencesociety.com Jan. 9 at 4:30 P.M. ‘We’re All in This Together’ Dinner to-go: Chicken Parm Dinner. St. Lawrence Society, 86 Valley Rd. SLS Member, $19.95; nonmember, $23.95. 203-6189036. STEPPING STONES MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN: steppingstonesmuseum.org Jan. 12 at 7 P.M. Webinar: ‘Closing the Opportunity Gap in America’ - for administrators, teachers, parents, caregivers. Register. bit.ly/3hJTf2G LOCKWOODMATHEWS MANSION MUSEUM:

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Editorial Page

Page 6 | Greenwich Sentinel

PUBLISHER Beth@GreenwichSentinel.com Elizabeth Barhydt

Following the Prince of Peace

EDITORS & COPY EDITORS Editor@GreenwichSentinel.com Peter Barhydt, Daniel FitzPatrick, Stapley Russell, Anne W. Semmes

Eastern Greenwich Civic Center and GAF We know it has been 20 years in the making, but it is for that very reason that we cannot rush to the end. We must ensure that all opportunities are explored before making a final decision. What are we talking about? The Eastern Greenwich Civic Center and the rush to secure Municipal Improvement status on an uninspired redesign of the current structure. No one will argue that a building originally built as an employee recreation center for Electrolux employees is tired - lacking amenities needed to be relevant or useful to our citizens. In fact, no one argued 20 years ago when the first discussions began about redesigning the building so that it could become a useful town asset. So, on the one hand we applaud all those involved in creating a proposed redesign of the current facility. Unfortunately, what was presented was rather hohum. A one-story building on the same basic footprint with the same basic uses as today. One addition is for more event space to be used by non-profits and artists. We are not sure why this was included. We already have event space under-utilized at just about every private club, YMCA, YWCA and the Greenwich Arts Center on the avenue. The opportunity to redesign the Civic Center is an opportunity to think outside the box and take into consideration what the town needs, not just right now, but the next 10, 15 or 20 years. What has been proposed has the feeling of “well, at least it is something” instead of being well thought out and taking into consideration input provided by citizen surveys.

The GAF has commissioned a site plan for the property in Old Greenwich that included the building currently proposed, but also includes a Field House with artificial turf that can be used year-round. The Greenwich Athletic Foundation (GAF) has made public a letter sent to various interested parties which question the speed in which this proposal is being passed and the lack of being able to offer input in a meaningful way. They are right to be frustrated. The GAF has been trying to offer positive input and support to various town projects and been constantly rebuffed. We do not understand why. When the Western Greenwich Civic Center was rebuilt it was a public/private partnership with a significant fundraising component. When the Byram Pool was rebuilt recently, The Junior League was tasked with raising a significant amount of money for it. These projects were huge successes. So why is the Eastern Greenwich Civic Center not a public/ private partnership with the GAF tasked to do the fundraising? The GAF has commissioned a site plan for the property in Old Greenwich that included the building currently proposed, but also includes a Field House with artificial turf that can be used year-round. This is a fantastic idea and a facility our town desperately needs. Why would this not be discussed in public forum? We do not have a good answer. Sometimes the easy road is easy even if it is not the right road. Why is this important now? Because the RTM is set to vote on January 19 to accept Municipal Improvement of the site as approved by Planning & Zoning. This would be a mistake. It would allow construction to go forward on an inferior design without looking at what could be accomplished on the whole site. We have an idea. The RTM should vote down the motion. They should raise and pass a “sense of the meeting” motion that challenges the GAF to publicly partner with the Civic Center and town boards behind its construction. They should be challenged to raise money to offset the construction of the Field House as well as create a business model that shows how through facility rental, the town can recoup the money it spends on construction. Give them a time limit in which to secure pledges. If they are unable to do so within the time limit, then bring back the current proposal. We deserve out of the box thinking for the Eastern Greenwich Civic Center.

By Stephanie Johnson

My heart is heavy and sad for our nation. From conversations with many of our parishioners, I have also heard their grief and worry over our country. As a people of faith, we turn to God in our moments of worry and fear knowing that God is ever present. In a v ir tual prayer v ig il on Wednesday night, our congregation gathered together to pray to God for healing and courage, to mourn those who were wounded and died, for all our elected leadership and those who were traumatized by the destruction at the LETTER

children when he felt threatened by Jesus, the new born King. It is a stark reminder that the human desire for power and control can come at an incredibly deep cost to innocent people. Yet importantly Epiphany is a feast day when we celebrate that the Light manifest in Jesus would overcome the darkness and that the Prince of Peace would reign in our hearts and minds, guiding us into action of love and care for all. As the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church Michael Curry often says “if it’s not about love, it’s not about God.” Our nation and community need the light of love to shine through in these dark days. May you all be guided to share and spread that love to help in the healing of our nation. The Reverend Stephanie M. Johnson is the rector of St. Paul's Church in Riverside.

Prioritizing Full ADA Compliance

Letter to the Editor: At the Board of Education’s Annual Budget Meeting, a reorganized capital plan was proposed by two BOE members. It prioritizes full ADA compliance throughout the GPS system, and puts issues like health and safety at the forefront of a holistic view of our school system’s capital needs. We the undersigned, find this approach to be practical, refreshing and absolutely necessary. The Americans With D i s a bi l it ie s Ac t b e c a me l aw in 1990. How can it be that 30 years later our public school system, a source of such pride in our community, is still in noncompliance with this most basic of laws? Greenw ich is b et ter than that, and our students, their families and our great teachers deserve better. We have heard the stories of parents in our GPS whose children are directly impacted by LETTER

Capitol. We also pealed the church bells into the cold dark winter night, not as a sign of mourning or a death knell for our nation, but rather a vibrant sound of our conviction that God is still with us. As followers of Jesus who sought p e ac e , we c onde m n a l l v iole nc e but this week we most particularly condemn the violence which erupted in our nation's Capitol on Wednesday afternoon as a threat to our shared values as a democratic nation. We are called to recognize that these actions threaten all our desires for justice equality, and a peaceful nation, while further breaking open the deep divide we face as a country. I am so very mindful that these horrific events of violence happened on the Feast of Epiphany, the last day of our Christmastide celebration. It is the day when we remember that the violent desire of Herod to maintain power included slaughtering innocent

the lack of ADA compliance in our schools. We recall a story about a principal at one of our elementary schools who had knee surgery. For weeks, the principal was unable to visit any of the classrooms on the second floor of the school because there is no elevator, and the stairs were out of the question. In a November Board of Education meet i ng a f r ust rate d mot her pleaded her case for her son who is about to enter Western Middle School. He uses a wheelchair and certain classes at his new middle school will require him to exit and re-enter the building from a different point of access. We are better than this. There are many other stories like these. We must ask ourselves as a community if we f ind this a c c e p t a b l e . D o we? We , t h e undersigned certainly do not. We agree wholeheartedly with A DA remediation, which puts priorities in the right order and deals head on with the problems

that non-ADA compliance poses for our community. This should be included in the current capital plan. This is about equity and inclusion. Every student, teacher and family member should have easy access to enter and exit all our public schools. It is our job to move our elected officials to get that done as soon as possible. The argument for prioritizing these needs is moral, ethical and intelligent. Non-ADA compliance puts our community at perpetual risk for major lawsuits. Winning a lawsuit is a costly exercise, while losing one can be catastrophic to a municipality on many levels. It is incredible that we have been able to avoid such litigation. In this regard, we are on borrowed time. This is another reason that non-ADA compliance is fiscally and morally irresponsible, and a glaring example of how it affects us all. We, the undersigned ask that our community make its voice

heard and help put a spotlight on this issue. Our Board of Education and Superintendent need to hear these voices. We have been NonADA compliant for 30 years. Let that sink in for a moment. 30 years. It is unacceptable. It is wrong. The time to change it is now. This letter is sig ned by the following people: Abbe Large, RTM Education Committee Member; Greg Large; Alan Gunzberg, Chairman First Selectman Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities; Stephanie Cowie, Vice Chair First Selectman Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities; Steven Rubin, RTM Education Committee Member; Paula Mickley, RTM Education Committee Member; Betsey Frumin, RTM Member; Ferdinando Schiro, RTM Member; Alex Popp, RTM Member, Greenwich teacher; John Blankley, Former BET Member; Megan Cimera, NYC Special Education teacher; Liz Tommasino, GPS Parent; Roy Skinner; Nerlyn

Children Feel Loved Without Santa

Letter to the Editor: As a person who grew up not believing in Santa Claus (my parents thought you shouldn't lie to children) I was startled at first when I saw the caption "Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus" in the Sentinel on Christmas Day. It was the reprint of a letter published in the New York Sun in 1897 as a reply to an eight-yearold girl who wanted to know if there really was a Santa Claus. When reading the piece, however, I was moved by the

urge to make children feel loved that seems to have inspired it. The letter-writer takes care to explain not only that some things exist even if we can't see them (such as love, generosity, devotion) but also that nothing in this world is more real and everlasting than the things that are unseeable. Therefore, if no one sees Santa Claus coming down the chimney, that doesn't mean he doesn't ex ist. "He lives and lives forever, and will continue to make glad the heart

of childhood." As well-meaning as this is, it's still throwing dust in children's eyes. If the aim is to make children happy, shouldn't they--besides being told that another, inner reality exists-also feel securely anchored in the outer reality they live in? Why not explain to Virginia that Santa is a symbol, a figure invented to give shape to some of those unseen things--and thus make them more real to children while at the same time ensuring them

that they're securely tied to their familiar surroundings? Then the girl would understand, and be pleased to know, that the presents this thought-up person brings her are actually gifts from real people, like her very own family. Santa Claus, the children's true friend, is part of a game we play at Christmas to assure kids that goodness does exist and is worth celebrating. Inger Hellstrom

Announcing LWV "Our Common Purpose" T he LW V G r e enw ich a nd Greenwich Library announce a program about strengthening confidence in American democracy in the 21st century. “I know of no safe depository of the ultimate powers of society but the people t h e m s e l v e s ,” s a i d T h o m a s Jefferson. To that end, “What we can do in Greenwich is host an exchange of views, as our society strives to perfect democratic representation,” said Sandy Waters, LWV Greenwich President. Under the auspices of the American Academy of Arts and

Sciences, the Commission on the Practice of Democratic Citizenship was formed to study “how best to respond to the weaknesses and vulnerabilities in our political and civic life.” To inform their report, Commission members interviewed a broad and diverse g roup of Americans in listening sessions in 47 cities and towns across the country. The Commission’s report, Our Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy for the 21st Century, was released in June 2020. It includes six strategies and 31 ambitious recommendations

to help the nation emerge as a more resilient democracy by 2026, the nation’s 250th birthday. The discussion will focus on a singularly important recommendation. OUR COMMON PUR POSE: R EI N V EN T I NG A M ER ICA N DE MO C R AC Y F OR T H E 21 st CENTURY; Wednesday, January 13, 2021; 5:30 - 6:45 pm This will be a virtual presentation and discussion of the finding of the Commission on the Practice of Democratic Citizenship of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Audience questions will be su bm it te d a nd a nswere d v ia Zoom, following the presentation. Speakers are Stephen B. Heintz, CEO and Chairman of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund and Co-Chair of the Commission, and Dr. Norman Ornstein, Resident Scholar of the American Enterprise Institute. Interested participants may register at https:// bit.ly/ LWVGCommonPurpose and may access the Commission’s full report here: https://www.amacad.org/ ourcommonpurpose/report online.

Greenwich Realtors Give Back The Board of Directors for the Greenwich Association of R EA LTOR S® and Greenw ich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. is proud to announce $50,000 in year-end charitable donations to community organizations. “Due to the increased activity ou r lo c a l r e a l e st ate m a rket has seen this year, our Board felt strongly about mak ing sure to provide assistance and recognition to those organizations across tow n who continue to make Greenwich a fantastic place to live and work,” explained 2020 GAR President, and Broker of New England Land Company,

John McAtee. “We are thrilled to support and further the efforts of these local resources as they continue to respond to the unprecedented demands of the ongoing pandemic.” The funds have been distributed to eight local nonprof its and services to provide additional support during this time of increased need due to COVID-19: Abilis provides services and supports for over 700 individuals w ith specia l needs a nd their families from birth through the lifespan; Greenwich Emergency Me d ic a l S e r v ic e s (GE M S) i s

the sole provider of emergency services to the Town; Greenwich United Way has been a trusted partner of the Greenwich community, government and local organizations since 1933; Kids in Crisis provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, and community education programs fo r c h i l d r e n o f a l l a g e s a n d families facing crisis; Neighbor to Neighbor improves the lives of residents in need throughout the Greenwich area and strengthens our community by creating access to food, clothing and basic living essentials in an atmosphere of respect; River House is committed

to providing the highest quality care to aging adults in Greenwich, Stamford, and the surrounding areas; Greenwich Silver Shield A s s o c iat ion a n or g a n i z at ion of Professional Police Off icers prov iding excellent police s e r v ic e s to t he c it i z e n s a nd business community of the Town of Greenwich, supporting programs that promote safety and better police/communit y r e l a t i o n s ; Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Association of Greenwich (TAG) a Greenwich non-profit serving Greenwich residents of all ages with safe, reliable, convenient and courteous transportation.

www.GreenwichSentinel.com

Page 7 | Greenwich Sentinel

OPED

The Honor of a Lifetime

By Livvy Floren After twenty unforgettable years serving the 149th Connecticut House District, it is time for me to say goodbye to a job I truly love, and colleagues I will dearly miss, but in the words of one of my favorite philosophers, Winnie the Pooh, “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” From my early years in local politics as a member of the Representative Town Meeting and the Board of Estimate and Taxation, to my latest roles as Assistant House Republican Leader and Ranking Member of the Bonding Subcommittee, it has been quite a journey. In my two decades in office, I have served with four Governors, f ive Speakers of the House, three Minority Leaders, four Greenwich First Selectmen, and three Stamford Mayors, and have logged 174,000 miles on the Merritt Parkway. During that same time span, Doug and I celebrated our fifty-third wedding anniversary, the marriage of all four of our children, and the birth of ten grandchildren. As I look back on my time in Hartford, I am

grateful for the friends I have made and for the important work we have done together. For starters, I am pleased with the work we have done to advance women’s issues, especially our bipartisan efforts on reproductive rights and the expansion of healthcare coverage to include essential benefits for women, children, and adolescents. We’ve also come together as a legislature to address sexual assault and harassment, pay inequality, and domestic violence. I was proud to cosponsor these initiatives and to see these bills prevail in the House and Senate. I also consider our joint conservation efforts to be landmark accomplishments. We have taken many steps to protect our water supply, air quality, forests, and open spaces because we recognized the need and urgency to preserve our natural resources for our children and grandchildren. Speaking of young people, we have made great strides in advancing educational and professional opportunities by investing in local schools, including Wright Tech and UConn Stamford, and have championed local businesses that hire from within the community. I have always fought to make Connecticut more welcoming and more competitive for employers because when they succeed, our economy succeeds. And that brings me to my role in the budgeting process, and the important work we’ve done to keep our state’s finances in order. Balancing the state budget is never easy and difficult choices are required, but we must always remember to live within our means and to put real needs before “nice-to-haves.” Over the years, we have kept

important state programs and initiatives funded, but we must continue to reevaluate our spending to ensure viability, efficiency, and sustainability in everything we do. It is also impor tant to remem ber that Connecticut is an expensive place to live, work, and raise a family, which is why I always fought for tax reform. One of our greatest accomplishments in this area was a Republican initiative to expand the income tax exemption for pension, Social Security, and annuity earnings to more individuals. Our seniors deserve to retire in this state with dignity and financial security, and I hope future legislatures will keep this in mind because at the end of the day, it is their constituents’ tax money, and it should be collected and spent wisely. It is never easy representing so many individuals with vastly different experiences and ideas, but every speech I delivered and each vote I cast on the House floor was made with my entire constituency in mind. I have always tried my best to represent you equally because you deserve no less. Greenwich has been my home for nearly fifty years, and it gives me great pleasure knowing I was able to give back to my community, as well as our neighbor, the City of Stamford. I’ve had the privilege of working with remarkable local leaders, both past and present, who have been exemplary role models that work tirelessly on behalf of our residents. I thank them for their friendship and for being outstanding partners in our common goal of bettering Greenwich and Stamford. I am also thankful for my family’s love,

support, and encouragement, especially during those late session nights. Doug, our children, and grandchildren have always been a source of inspiration throughout my career in public service, and now, I look forward to spending more time with them. To my colleagues in Hartford, I thank them for the wonderful memories. Whether they served on the left or right side of the aisle, they always advocated in the best interest their constituents, and we learned much from one another. I was fortunate to have served with them, and I wish those also retiring the very best as they begin a new chapter in their lives. Their communities were fortunate to have them at their service. Finally, I would like to thank you, my friends across the 149th District who have placed your trust in me year after year, for the honor of a lifetime. It has been the highlight of my professional life to serve each of you, and I wish our incoming State Representative Kimberly Fiorello, and the entire 2021-2022 General Assembly, all the best in the upcoming session. If I could provide just one bit of parting advice to the new members, it is this: remember that politics is not about the next election; it is about the next generation. Always govern, always vote, and always act as if our future depends on it. I have confidence that each of them will do what is right for the state of Connecticut, and all of us that call it home. With gratitude, Livvy

What is a Library?

By John Blankley Quick, you must know the Dewey decimal system, but can you def ine it exactly? Used throughout the world it classifies library books into ten basic groups. Go to our wonderful Greenwich Library and check it out, well, when we’re past the pandemic and life returns to normal! The Library as it is today goes well beyond anything that Mr. Dewey could have imagined and with its current renovation is redefining the very concept of what a library is. But for a moment let us review some history and think more widely about libraries and their significance. For example, a university is a seat of learning but what is at the heart of the university? – its library. It is where truth and knowledge are stored. And so, for a community or society at large, the library is the focal point of conserved wisdom, the place where works of fact and fiction are kept for the benefit of all and the

profit of posterity. Such sentiments state no more than the obvious for the civilized mind. Not for nothing did Andrew Carnegie in his years of benefaction give money to the building and creation of libraries around the world. The richest man in the world, as he was at the time, remembered his early years of poverty in Dunfermline in Scotland and as his gift to humanity devoted his charity to libraries so that books and learning would be available to all classes of society. For example, in my case, the first library I remember was the local municipal library in the working-class town in the north of England where I was brought up. It was a quiet, almost hallowed space. And donated by Andrew Carnegie. Another visionary in the world of libraries was Thomas Bodley who founded the library at my alma mater, Oxford – the great and venerable institution known, eponymously, as the Bodleian. It was the 1590’s and in the wake of Henry’s dissolution of the monasteries half a century earlier Bodley was aware of the loss of the monastic libraries but greater still was his ambition to recreate the great library of Alexandria, which early in the Christian era had fallen into neglect and was eventually destroyed. These were big themes and a leap indeed from the municipal library back home in Yorkshire. Here in the Bodleian were books dating from centuries

past that by their very existence and preservation in that magnificent building (four copies of Magna Carta are kept here) spoke of the accumulated knowledge of our ancestors – knowledge that today we can so easily take for granted. Here resides truth as much as knowledge, learning that leads to mankind’s advance and prosperity. However, the knowledge in books is also power and therein lies the impetus for a darker impulse, the destruction of libraries and book burning, acts motivated by religion, politics and culture. The current director of the Bodleian has just written a book on this subject, cataloguing everything from the smashing of Assyrian tablets, to the first emperor of China who had all Confucius’ works burned, to Nazi book burning, to the destruction of three million volumes in Bosnia’s National Library in Sarajevo in 1992, to the targeting of libraries in Yemen today. Then there are librarians themselves as heroes. Take the librarians in Vilnius in Lithuania who literally risked their lives to save national documents and archives from the Nazis then had to do the same thing all over again when the communists took over. Librarians in Timbuktu in 2012 saved priceless manuscripts from jihadist insurgents and earned themselves the title “Badass Librarians!” Then there is the predecessor of Bodley’s current Librarian who in the 1660’s hid the works of Bunyan and Milton from the book burners after the Restoration of the monarchy,

most notably John Milton’s Areopagitica, the famous peon to reason and the freedom of speech. But let’s move on from these depredations of history and talk about our very own Greenwich Library. The director of our Library, Barbara Ormerod-Glynn, will thankfully never have to face the historical challenges I’ve described and can continue to devote herself to new programs and the ongoing improvement of this iconic institution, where she has served for 18 years, the last 6 as director. She and her team have successfully guided us through the digital revolution, given us access to music, movies and the arts and thanks to support from donors and the town, the Library has grown exponentially since my wife and I first arrived in town almost 40 years ago. I now have the honor to serve as a trustee during the Library’s next step forward: what we call “ReImagine Greenw ich Librar y.” A f ter an $18 million renovation project we will have a new theater, a new innovation lab and new meeting facilities that will make the Library a veritable cultural center in our town. Dewey and Bodley would wonder at this modern incarnation of what a library can be. Join us for the virtual celebration later this month and see for yourselves. John Blankley, Former member of the BET and Greenwich Library trustee.

Greenwich Year in Review

By Fred Camillo As I finished my first month in office one year ago, neither I, nor anyone, could have imagined what was in front of us. The year 2020 began - we were excited, enthusiastic, and energized. Then, the progress of the first few months of 2020 suddenly halted as the Town, state, nation, and the world needed to shift gears and prepare for something not experienced since 1918: a worldwide pandemic known as Covid-19. While this unpredictable virus presented one of the most challenging years in anyone's memory, it also offered silver linings in the form of opportunities. The possibility of a complete government and economic shutdown was discussed in mid-March. That scenario would have led to COLUMN

By Scott Williams It was frustrating waiting for Christmas. I confess to harboring that pre-adolescent excitement that attends the

an economic collapse and caused just as much misery and suffering as this deadly virus itself. Facing that and other uncertainties, Town off icials, the business community, and our residents stepped up, acted quickly, and averted the feared worst-case scenarios. Holding virtual meetings started almost immediately, after just a few short trial runs. Working with Zoning and Public Works officials, options such as outdoor dining, something being planned for the future, was now urgently needed if our restaurants were to survive. This resulted in the transformation of the look and atmosphere of Greenwich Avenue and a few other parts of town where restaurants went outdoors. This is something we are committed to continuing on a permanent basis, too. Long-standing issues, concerns, and problems were addressed. Projects and ideas including: · A new Eastern Greenwich Civic Center; · The complete redesign of Roger Sherman Baldwin Park; · The beautification of Greenwich Avenue with public safety enhancements; · Enhancement projects in each section of Town; · The establishment of a Town energy policy advisory committee tasked with developing

a Town energy policy; · Recycling of additional items out of the solid waste stream; · The embracin g of public-pr ivate partnerships (P3); · Following the P3 initiatives, supported the acquisition of 73 acres of Aquarion land; · The selection of a new fire chief; · The reorganizations of both the Greenwich Police and Fire departments and increased public safety initiatives; · The creation of a storm preparedness policy; · Empaneling a committee that addressed and resolved the Greenwich Plaza air rights issue, saving the Town a valuable asset: · Working with developers and property owners in downtown area with focus on enhancing properties under private o w n e r s h i p t o c o m p l i m e n t To w n improvements currently under way and being planned; · Multiple public parking solutions aimed at improving access to shopping and dining; · The first ever night meetings of the Board of Selectmen, which will resume when inperson meetings are allowed; · Increased and daily presence on social

media; and · Weekly and consistent communication with the Town's residents were established. While the ship of state is alive, well, and following a prosperous and healthy course, the new year will present challenges related to normal pressures as well as those associated with the virus. We need to maintain our vigilance, staying focused and determined, standing strong in the face of the health threat this disease will bring in 2021. The coming new year will also continue to offer a landscape fertile for more innovation and progress. Our collective efforts will yield benefits that will be enjoyed by both the present and future generations of Greenwich residents. It is with this optimism and gratitude that I thank the people of Greenwich for keeping their eyes on the ball, and for working together to ensure we come out of this pandemic in a more efficient and effective state. I also would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy, safe, and successful New Year. Together, we will make the Town of Greenwich an even better place to work, visit, and in which to call home. Fred Camillo, First Selectman, Town of Greenwich.

There Must Be a Better Way

approach of the holidays. So when, at last, The Big Day a r r ive d , it w a s mor e t ha n ir r itating to be con f ronted with anti-theft packaging that required the better part of halfan-hour to safely rip open. I’m talking, of course, about the ridiculous clamshells that incise the sk in of so many f ingertips. Out come Santa’s goggles, safety gloves, and the oxyacetylene torch, with Mrs. Claus/Nurse Mom waiting to triage the injuries you’re likely to incur in your effort to bring joy to the kids.

We need to rethink this danger to humanity and gargantuan waste contributor. Something besides my epidermis has to give. Seriously, The New York Times informs us as many as 6,000 Americans strain ou r trau ma-center r e s o u r c e s e a c h ye a r w i t h packaging related injuries. Many people now arm themselves with nifty little package cutters rather than relying on the risky t h r u st-a nd-p a r r y st rate g y of attacking clamshells with scissors or kitchen knives. P r o duc t ma nu fac t u r er s

m u s t d o s o m e t h i n g . We consumers have to insist on better packaging solutions. The amount of plastic wrap is excessive. Do we really need for a pill to be wrapped in three layers of plastic? Eco-minded consumers want packaging to be as minimal as possible, but manufacturers fire back stating they don't want their products to start decomposing in the store. The King of the Internet Jungle, Amazon, has attempted a solution by creating Certified Frustration-Free Packaging (yes, that’s really what they call

it). Amazon has brought us full circle, settling on the far more user-friendly corrugated e-flute for most deliveries. Yes, the cardboard box. A t a t i m e w h e n we ’r e encouraged to be thank ful, I’m happy to point out that one a l most never he a rs of ca rd boa rd-box inju r ies. I n fact, on Christmas Day, many kids find the large variety of corrugated shipping containers to be the best toy of all, what with their versatility as hideout, tunnel, or spaceship. But have you noticed how outrageously

overpackaged many Amazon items are? I don’t have the ultimate answers. But I do know we need to get to a world with safe packaging and less packagingrelated pollution. We need new and safer materials – and for all my friends in the design world, we have to reduce the amount of plastic used and maximize recycling rates, all while meeting functional needs at a reasonable cost. Let the invention begin. I’m already looking forward to next Christmas.

Page 8 | Greenwich Sentinel

MEDAL OF HONOR

The Grunt Padre Vincent R. Capodanno

DETAILS Rank: Lieutenant Conflict/Era: Vietnam War Unit/Command: Chaplain Corps, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein) Fmf Military Service Branch: U.S. Navy Medal Of Honor Action Date: September 4, 1967 Medal of Honor Action Place: Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam Medal of Honor Received Date: January 7, 1969 CITATION For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Chaplain of the 3d Battalion, in connection with operations against enemy forces. In response to reports that the 2d Platoon of M Company was

in danger of being overrun by a ma ssed enemy a ssaultin g force, Lt. Capodanno left the relative safety of the company command post and ran through an open area raked with f ire, d i re c tl y to th e b e l e a g u e re d platoon. Disregarding the intense enemy small-arms, automaticweapons, and mortar f ire, he moved about the battlef ield administering last rites to the dying and giving medical aid to the wounded. When an exploding mortar round inf licted painful multiple wounds to his arms and legs, and severed a portion of his right hand, he steadfastly refused all medical aid. Instead, he directed the corpsmen to help their wounded comrades and, with calm vigor, continued to move about the battlef ield as he provided encouragement by voice and example to the valiant marines. Upon encountering a wounded corpsman in the direct line of fire of an enemy machine gunner positioned approximately 15 yards away, Lt. Capodanno rushed in a daring attempt to aid and assist the mortally wounded c o r p s m a n . At t h a t i n s t a n t , only inches from his goal, he was struck down by a burst of machine-gun fire. By his heroic conduct on the battlefield, and his

Navy Lt. Vincent Capodanno conducts a field prayer service for the men of A Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines. Photo courtesy of the Father Capodanno Guild.

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Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Timothy Martin, a religious program specialist, unveils Lt. Vincent Capodanno's Medal of Honor during the dedication ceremony at the Capodanno Chapel at The Basic School, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Dec. 9, 2014. Chaplain Capodanno served with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment in the Vietnam War and was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his actions. Photo by Marine Corps Sgt. Melissa Karnath. inspiring example, Lt. Capodanno upheld the f inest tradition s of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the cause of freedom. Chapla i ns a ren’t just religious advocates for service members. They’re also relied upon for moral and spiritual well-being, with an ability to be calm in the most harrowing of circumstances. Only a handful of chaplains h ave e a r ne d t he Me d a l of H o n o r. N a v y L t . V i n c e n t Capodanno, whose bravery and self lessness were exemplified during the Vietnam War, is one of them. Capodanno was born on Staten Island, New York, in Februar y 1929. He was the youngest of nine siblings and loved to volunteer throughout his community. He went to college for a year after high

school, but eventually decided that his true calling was to serve others through God. Capodanno quit school and joined the seminary. He was ordained as a priest in 1957. During the next eight years of his life, he would travel to Taiwan as a missionary, then to Hong Kong to teach disadvantaged children. By the mid-1960s, A m e r i c a’s i nvo l ve m e nt i n Vietnam had grown so much that Capodanno felt the urge to serve. So, in December 1965, he volunteered to become a commissioned off icer in the Navy to work as a chaplain. I n A p r i l 19 6 6 , Cap o d a n n o was sent to Vietnam to serve with the 1st Marine Division, 5th Marine Regiment’s 3rd Battalion. C h a p l a i n s a r e noncombatants, meaning

they don’t actively participate in hostilities, but his actions wh i le deployed were wel lrespected. Capodanno earned the nickname “Grunt Padre” for living, eating and sleeping i n t he s a me c ond it ion s a s the Marines with whom he ser ve d. I n t he com mu n it y where they were stationed, he organized outreach programs, started libraries and gathered and distributed gif ts for t he loc a l p e ople . He sp ent hours reassuring the weary, consoling the g riev ing and listening to confessions. Capodanno requested a sixmonth extension after his tour was up. Four months into that extension, he earned the Medal of Honor. On Sept. 4, 1967, a 38-yearold Capodanno was with his Marines in South Vietnam’s Q ua ng T i n pr ov i nce when

his unit learned that another platoon was in danger of being ove r r u n by e ne my for c e s . T he ch apla i n , who w a s at the company command post, decided to leave his safe haven and run through an area riddled with gunfire to get to the platoon under attack. Despite the hail of gunfire, explosions and other chaos at the scene, Capodanno moved around the battlefield, giving last r ites to the dy i ng a nd aid to the wounded. He was eventually hit by an exploding mortar, which caused multiple ar m and leg wounds and severed part of his right hand. B u t h e d i d n ’t g i v e u p . Capodanno refused any medical help and instead d i r e c te d ot her M a r i ne s to help their wounded comrades. He calmly continued to move around the battlef ield, encouraging the Marines to follow his lead. When he noticed a wounded Marine who was directly in the line of fire, Capodanno rushed in to try to help. He was within inches of the Marine when a burst of machine gun fire went of f. Capoda n no was h it 2 5 times and died at the scene. The chaplain’s loss was immeasurable. His bravery had inspired the men around him so much that he went on to posthumously earn the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Silver Star. On Jan. 7, 1969, his family received the Medal of Honor on his behalf. Capodanno is one of nine military chaplains to have ever earned the honor. In the half-century since his death, several chapels and other buildings have served as his namesake. Staten Island’s main thoroughfare, Seaside Boulevard, was renamed in his honor. The USS Capodanno was also named for him, even re ceiv i ng a papa l ble ssi ng from Pope John Paul II when the ship was commissioned in 1973. I n 2 014 , t h e c h ap l a i n’s me da l was donate d by h is family and dedicated to the Capodanno Chapel at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. Ef for t s a r e b ei ng made to have the Roman Catholic Church canonize Capodanno as a saint. Thi s a r t icle wa s wr it ten by Katie Lange as part of a weekly series in which Defense. gov highlights one of the more than 3 , 500 Medal of Honor recipients who have earned the U.S. military’s highest medal for valor.

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Page 9 | Greenwich Sentinel

EDUCATION

Teaching Will Be Better. But Who Got Left Behind?

By Jack Creeden No one is sad to bid farewell to 2020. Last January, Covid-19 was a story about an improbable health crisis in Asia. Who paid much attention to the possibility that the virus would arrive in America? And can any of us say we anticipated how the pandemic would transform education? Let’s be frank. We were all caught by surprise. Teachers and administrators had little knowledge about pandemics and limited experience teaching virtually. Yes, we have some marvelous virtual programs like Stanford Online High School (https:// onlinehighschool.stanford.edu) or the Global Online Academy (https://globalonlineacademy.org) to name a few, but the overwhelming majority of instruction in America traditionally occurred in person every weekday in classrooms from 8:00 – 3:00PM. But January 2020 rolled into February and we started to wonder. How do we respond as educators to Covid-19? What impact will this have on my teaching and our students? How do we Zoom, and do you use Seesaw? None of us were prescient enough to anticipate the transformation that was about to overwhelm

us and to which we were ill-prepared to respond. I remember saying to our faculty in early March that it might be a good idea to develop two or three weeks of online instruction just in case we temporarily closed school. So here we are about to start a new calendar year with 10 months of experience behind us. Last winter and spring we explored, we experimented and we discovered what it meant to teach virtually. Students and their families were exposed to a different model of school. This summer teachers took classes to master the art of virtual instruction. Our expertise increased as did our confidence in applying the lessons we learned from the winter and spring. We returned in the fall in person or in hybrid models, utilizing the knowledge and experience we acquired previously. We employed technology in ways that made teaching and learning better. We figured out how to combine virtual learning and in-person instruction. As teachers, many of us spend the Winter Break writing end of the term assessments. Our goal is to document for students the progress they have made and to recommend strategies to improve. So it seems natural that we do our own self-assessment of our performance this fall in the Covid-19 environment. Here are the lessons learned: 1. We acknowledge that in-person learning far outweighs the advantages that virtual teaching provides. The opportunity to connect online with learners across the globe on topics that may not be easily accessible in one’s local environment

must be celebrated. However, nothing online matches being in a room with other human beings interacting, debating and wondering aloud. 2. This fall teachers integrated the best of in-person learning with the latest technology, creating enhanced learning opportunities. Online field trips to distant locations made it possible for students to “travel” and experience other cultures. Via zoom, students met, asked questions of and were motivated in real time by artists, authors, scientists and thought leaders across the country and world. 3. If the fall term demonstrated anything, it was the importance of the social interaction that school provides. School is designed to bring people together around the common goal of learning. During the first two days of school in August, children rushed to see their friends and teachers. The smiling faces while working with classmates are the testimony that supports the social-emotional growth created in school. The best online learning has some of that built into its curricula, but it hardly compares to being in the classroom. 4. During March and April, teachers rapidly moved from master classroom teacher to adult learner in the virtual world. There was no time to debate or discuss the need to change how we taught. Last February schools had a handful of teachers who had experience integrating substantive technology into their curricula. This December I watched as more than a dozen members of our faculty led workshops for colleagues sharing different apps they were using

to enhance classroom teaching. The classroom has truly been transformed 5. Students are more resilient than we know. When their classrooms were turned upside down last March, they did not step away from the challenges of virtual instruction. Yes, they complained and indeed some engaged more deeply than others. But they all returned in August ready to learn virtually, in-person or in a hybrid model. This is their current reality, and they are moving ahead with greater compliance than some of the adults. 6. Children in school see washing their hands, wearing masks and social distancing as normative behavior. In July, I feared that 3 and 4-year old children would never wear a mask all day in school, but I was wrong. So there is much to celebrate at the end of the term that was defined by the pandemic. But what of the students and families who do not have access to technology, whose faculties were not able to take the workshops and integrate new technology into classroom teaching? Covid-19 has negatively affected those families and students and widened the gap between well-resourced and poorly financed schools and districts. As educators, we must ask what our responsibility is to the greater good? And how will we go about meeting that responsibility for those students Covid-19 left behind?. Jack Creeden, Ph.D., is the Head of Whitby School and a longtime independent school educator. He has written and presented extensively on governance, strategic planning and cross-cultural competence.

O Christmas Tree By Mary Forde When we lived on the second f loor in a brownstone in Brooklyn, our landlord lived below us on the “parlor floor” (Brooklyn code for the first f loor you entered into). Every year, after Thanksgiving, he would buy a big, beautiful pine tree and decorate it with a multitude of ornaments, lights and tinsel (gone, but not forgotten). The tree was in the front window and was a beacon of festivity on the block. He enjoyed the tree so much, he generally left it up until about Easter or late April. Sometime around February/March, if we were really quiet, we could hear the pine needles falling to the floor. By Valentine’s Day, all that was left were ornaments, lights and some of the tinsel. The rest of the tree was in piles underneath. Trying to ignore the obvious fire hazard, we appreciated the tree continuing to shine brightly through the dark winter nights. I think Bob (landlord) just really, really enjoyed the tree and the spirit of the holidays and figured if you didn’t take down the tree, you

could continue with the emphasis on peace, love and understanding as long as it stood. As you can imagine, it was a running joke in our house and other than buying an additional smoke alarm, we learned to accept and somewhat enjoy the twinkling lights on the tree of bare branches. After the year we have just lived through, I am wondering if it isn’t time for all of us to rethink the idea of holding on to the outward signs of the holidays just a little bit longer in hopes of also holding on to the warm feelings and happy thoughts. In the spirit of keeping the holiday alive, my first suggestion would be that everyone leave their house lights on until the first day of spring. I realize there is the additional cost of the electric bill, but wouldn’t it be nice to come home in the dark in January and be greeting by a festival of lights. I’d be OK with retiring the blow up Santa and dreidel as well as the animated Rudolph and elves (which frankly scare me just a little), but would it be so bad if we all left the lights on for an extra couple of

weeks? It would also be nice to combine our support of our essential workers from last spring with tokens of appreciation from the holidays. Maybe once a week or every couple of weeks, your children could put together a decorated card or an individually wrapped candy bar (always covid careful) for the postal worker or trash carrier. You could save some of the holiday wrapping paper and make a project of wrapping up your contribution. Although the current infection rates are approaching the levels from the spring, we seem to have lost some of our enthusiasm for recognition (we are all suffering from pandemic fatigue) even though the contributions of these workers remain as critical as they were before. And there is nothing like a KitKat and a positive note to make every job a little easier. Another holiday extension would be to build on the anticipation of opening gifts. But instead of toys and clothes, what if each person in the family identified one task/job they would be willing to

take on for a week (or a couple of days)? “I will walk the dog in the morning for three days.” Write your pledge on a card and wrap it up (another use for the used wrapping paper), and designate a day to exchange ‘gifts.’ Better still, bring over some of your holiday morning traditions to a Saturday in February – Hot chocolate, pancakes, exchange ‘gifts’ and watch Willy Wonka in your pajamas. Finally, continue wishing all those you come in contact with a happy day. You could say‘Happy holiday!’ and thoroughly confuse them or just say, ‘Happy Wednesday!’ But continue with the holiday season cheer of giving an eye smile and a wish for happy times. Trust me , those happy times are coming and we had better be ready – someone is making a list and checking it twice – remotely. Stay healthy, spread the holiday peace and understanding and if you decide to keep the tree up, a second fire extinguisher never hurt! Mary P. Forde, Chief Pupil Services OfficerGreenwich Public Schools

Helping our Kids with Homework during COVID By John Grasso When I became the interim principal of Hamilton Avenue School, CCI and its Homework Club had been offering support for ma ny ye a rs. The Clu b, which met after school four days a week, provided students w ith the opportunity to do their homework in a designated lea r n i ng space. There was tutoring and help available for children grades 3-4-5. At the end of each session children

would board a bus that took them to the Boys and Girls Club where they could focus on much need physical exercise and play. Thanks to the tireless work of CCI personnel the students knew they were well prepared for the next day of school. Last March all that changed as school were forced to shut down when the pandemic hit our state and the world. In the months that followed parents, children and teachers

all struggled to deal with at home lea r n i ng, mask s a nd social distancing. Throughout the last 9 months, yes it has been 9 months, CCI has worked to keep children connected. Schools have adapted but still rely heavily on parents and their ability to support their children. This has proven to be hard for most and extremely difficult for others. Right now, schools are in session and students have been terrif ic

a b out we a r i n g m a sk s a nd keeping their distance. Should we have to change the delivery model and for those who are learning from home here are some tips to remember: • If possible, create a learning space- a quiet area. • Make a schedule of when things are due and keep to it! • When school is in session, children should be off video games, not watching TV and not playing with toys or pets.

• Get plenty of exercisewhile students are in school for six hours, they are not working for all that time. Plan breaks, lunch and exercise for your child. • If you need help w ith technology do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or to organizations such as CCI. • It is tempting but when your child is working with the teacher, you should leave the room and the zoom!

The good news is that a vaccine is coming soon and when this is over CCI will be there to help the Greenwich community as it has for over 65 years! John Grasso is the retired principal of Riverside School, and the former interim principal of Hamilton Avenue School. He is a CCI Board Member

Anno Insaniam

By Dan FitzPatrick Well, 2020, you were quite a wild and crazy year (apologies to Steve Martin). I think we all are happy to put that eminently regrettable year behind us. Along with all the well-known national and international drama, we had our share of local challenges -- with drought, tornados, falling trees, power outages, car thefts and house fires – and that was all in one neighborhood! Recently, a number of high-power circuit breakers tripped with an enormous bang that sounded like a bomb going off, which prompted our newest neighbors, a lovely couple from New York City, to quip that it felt like they had “left ‘Corona City’ for Newark!” We are facing the prospects of continuing coronavirus cases locally, and anxiously anticipating wider availability of vaccines that can help put this health threat behind us. Fortunately, Greenwich Hospital is

one of only six hospitals in the nation offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat the disease, and our local government, led by First Selectman Fred Camillo, is taking reasoned and balanced measures to encourage our citizens to adjust behavior in support of limiting the spread of the disease. For most of us, that means spending more time at home. It’s “Groundhog Day” all over again! One benef it of spending more time at home is the development of a greater sense of awareness of the alltoo-often overlooked blessings we have in the physical beauty, variety, complexity and vibrancy of nature sur rounding us. The leaves are down, but the sun is out and the air, though chill, is clear. It is actually another beautiful early winter in New England. Every fall, I am used to seeing squirrels zigzagging across the lawn, foraging for nuts. But in keeping with the theme of 2020 as completely “nuts,” I observed a very different, and curious, phenomena. The squirrels have been eating the pumpkins! I have never before seen squirrels eating pumpkins. And they’ve not just been nibbling – they’ve been consuming the whole pumpkin. It makes you wonder – is this a sign of impending apocalypse, zombie or otherwise? Is nature finally fed

up with our imperfect stewardship of the world we have been given? Do the animals k now something about the winter of 2021 that not even the Farmer’s Almanac could have predicted? Could they be the harbinger of the End of Days, symbols of the Third Horseman, the food merchant riding on a black horse symbolizing Famine (note that some local squirrels are all black)? No. Calm down. To the great disappointment of conspiracy theorists and interpreters of prophecy, the explanation lies in the rather dull and pragmatic realm of science. The squirrels have been thirsty. It appears, not surprisingly, that the drought severely impacted the staples of the typical squirrel diet – fruits, nuts and vegetables. With less rain, they contain less moisture, which is the principal way in which squirrels satisfy their need for water. Pumpk ins are ver y thirsty f ruits (yes, they are actually fruits, not vegetables; check it out yourself), requiring 1 to 1-1/2 inches of water each week (1-inch equals approximately 16 gallons). Since most of the pumpkins you’ve see on lawns and front stoops around Halloween and Thanksgiving have been farmraised, they were not directly affected by the drought and are chock full of the moisture that the squirrels crave. Hence the little rodents’ feeding frenzy

and the mass defacing of pumpkins and Jack-O’-Lanterns across Fairfield County. While they do make a mess, I have to admit that my wife and I intentionally left our pumpkins out for the squirrels to feast on. Our motive was not completely rooted in our concern for wildlife; we just got a really big kick out of watching them. We became enamored with the sight of them sitting on their haunches, bug bushy tails upright and alert, nibbling on a juicy morsel, climbing over and even into the pumpkins, day in and day out. We were tempted to give them names, but they all look so much alike, and we can’t tell the males from the females. The one big distinguishing feature is their size – they have gotten very, very fat. Enormously fat. Amusingly fat. (We are not indulging in “fat-shaming,” but if you saw them for yourself, you’d admit it is an apt description). Most squirrels do not hibernate, but the fat they build up during the fall helps them get through the winter. Our local squirrels should do just fine. L e t ’s t a ke a l e s s o n f r o m t h e squirrels and take action now to prepare for the future. Let’s all follow reasonable steps to protect ourselves and others from this very contagious virus. But let’s also remember that, like the seasons, this too shall pass.

In the meantime, let’s focus on those things that are good and right in the world, and work to make them even better. Now is a time to realize that, like the squirrels who take extraordinary measures to get what they need, we need to find creative ways to stay together, to feed the sense of community that we crave, to be mindful of the fact that others are suffering through these very difficult times and could use a caring reachout, even if just a “virtual” one. It is said that we can get through this together. “Togetherness” was not exactly a theme of 2020. Let’s all commit to making this new year one in which we do the unexpected a nd work to hea l the wou nds in our relationships, personal, local and national.

Page 10 | Greenwich Sentinel

Robert Steiner

Obituaries

She is sur v ived by her f a t h e r, J a m e s K i n g , s i s t e r, Catherine King, Husband, Roy Veniga, her children, Christina L e a n d e r ( W i l l i a m) , A l i s o n Stewart (James), Daniel Veniga (Robin), Noelle Brittney Veniga, her grandchildren Mackenzie, C o n n o r, G r i f f i n , C o u r t n e y, Madalynn, Anthony and greatgranddaughter, Ruby.

Peter Rocco

R o b e r t A . S t e i n e r, o f Riverside, passed away Jan. 5, 2021, at age 77. He was born June 5, 1943 in the Bronx to Frank and Dorothy Steiner. Robert worked for over 48 years as a Plumber with the UA Local Union No.1 in NYC. He was a member of the American Turners of NY. Robert is survived by his lov i ng w i fe , Ro s em a r y (ne e Campbell) and cherished children, Robert Steiner (Jennifer) and Anne Steiner. He is the dear grandfather of Jase and brother of Donald. Funeral Mass is on Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Catherine of Sienna R.C. Church, Riverside. The Mass will be live streamed at stc-sta.org or coxeandgraziano. com In lieu of f lowers memorial donations may be made to Gre enw ich Hospit a l, g iv i ng. greenhosp.org

Elizabeth Edwards

Elizabeth (Betty) Edwards passed away at Greenw ich Hospital on Jan. 1 from Covid 19. She was born on Jan. 11, 1923 in Glen Lyon, Pa. to the late Bertha and Simon Koszyk. Betty was predeceased by her husband Jack, her son Jack Jr, and her daughters Susan and Debbie. She is survived by her loving daughter Nancy Kosakow (Greg), ten grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Betty was a very k ind a nd lov i ng woma n who was cherished by her family. She was a devout Catholic and a longtime member of Blessed Sacrament Church in New Rochelle, N Y until she moved to Greenwich, CT four years ago. Visitation was held on Jan. 5 at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home, Greenwich. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Wilma Veniga

May 17, 1949 – Jan. 1, 2021 W i l m a K i n g -V e n i g a o f Greenw ich, CT passed away peacefully on Jan. 1, 2021. She was 71 years old. Wilma was b or n i n 1949 i n Du m ba r ton, Scotland to James and Christina King (neé McIllaney). She moved to the United States with her parents and sister in 1957. Wilma grew up in New York before moving to Greenwich with her family in 1975. She went on to become a nurse in the Greenwich and Stamford area and proudly assisted families in labor and delivery for many years. Wilma was a beloved d a u g h t e r, s i s t e r, m o t h e r, g r a n d m o t h e r a n d g r e atgrandmother.

Hoda (Mimi) Hilal Kosseim died peacefully on Monday, Dec. 28 at her home in Greenwich, CT, surrounded by her family. She was 84. With dignity and grace, she battled lymphoma and leukemia in the last four years of her life. Daughter of the late Dr. Kamel and Mrs. Alice Hilal, she was born April 5, 1936 in Cairo, Egypt. She attended the English Mission College in Cairo and continued her studies at the University of Cairo, earning a master ’s deg ree i n Br itish Literature. In 1962 she emigrated with her mother to the United States from Egypt, to join her brothers. Soon after arrival she reconnected with Alex Kosseim, a family friend from Egypt. They were married in Minneapolis, MN on June 29, 1963. While raising three daughters in Yorktown Heights and Rye, NY, she completed a second master’s degree in Library Science from St. John’s University. She worked full time as a reference librarian and cataloguer at New Rochelle P ublic Librar y and then at Greenwich Library. Mimi embodied the values of academic achievement and career options for women. She was a t ra i l blazer and role model for her daughters in balancing career, family, and community service. She viewed herself as a feminist. Outside of her loves of family a n d l ite r at u r e , sh e e nj oye d all for ms of needlework and was a fabulous cook. She also volu nte er e d her t i me at t he Chu r ch of t he Re su r r e c t ion in Rye and later at Stamford Hospital. She and Alex traveled widely throughout Asia, Australia, Europe, and North A me r ic a . Pa s sion ate a b out learning and embracing new challenges, she recently formed a book club, a Mah Jong group, and in her 80s, took up bridge. Her circle of friends continued to grow. Mimi was always a hopeful and optimistic person. When speaking of her journey to the United States, she said “You look ahead. You don’t look behind.” She is sur v ived by her husband of 57 years, A lex Kosseim; by her children, Mona Kosseim (Paul Baumgartel) of Stamford, CT, Janine Wak im (Touf ic) of Greenwich, CT, Dr. Laura Kosseim (Dr. John Lynch) of Penn Valley, Pennsylvania; her cousin Nelly Khandji of Rye, NY; her six grandchildren Matthew, Michelle, Alyse, Gaby, Katie, and Jack; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, Dr. Sadek, Ghanem, Adel, and Fayiz Hilal. An intimate wake was held on Jan. 1, at Leo P. Gallagher Funeral home, Greenwich. A Mass of Christian burial was offered on Jan. 2 at Immaculate Conception Church, Sleepy Hollow, NY. In lieu of f lowers, memorial donations may be made to “Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land,” ffhl.org.

Peter Rocco, age 72, passed away on Dec. 29 af ter a t wo month struggle with declining health due to heart disease. He was a loving husband to his wife of 52 years Nancy (Mateycik) Rocco, and a devoted father to h is ch i ld ren Jen n ifer (Dave) of Redding, Christopher of Greenwich, Peter (Sandie) of Milford and Andrew (Lisa) of California. He was an adoring Pepa to his granddaughter Leena Rocco. He is also survived by his brother, Raymond Rocco, Jr. (Peggy) of Greenwich, his sister Rosemary Belfiore of Florida, his sister-in-law Elaine Buschmeyer o f Co s Cob , h i s b r o t h e r s i n law John Mateycik and Albert Mateycik of Greenwich, and his nieces Kellie Ambrogio, Sharon D'Em idio, Frances Brow n, K ristin Coppola and Sarah Buschmeyer. Peter was born and raised in Port Chester, NY. He was the son of Raymond Rocco, Sr. and Carmela (Briganti) Rocco. Peter graduated from Port Chester High School and then entered the U.S. Air Force and served a s a n a i r c ra f t me ch a n ic for four years stationed in Dover, Delaware, Hawaii, and California. While stationed in Delaware, Peter married his high school sweetheart, Nancy. After his Air Force service, Peter and his young family settled in Byram, where he lived until his passing. At that time he joined his father and brother in the family auto body business, Ray & Sons Auto Body in Port Chester. After 25 years in the auto body business Peter took over the morning conce ssion at t he R iverside railroad station where his friendly "good mornings" started the day for his many commuter acq ua i nt a nce s. A f ter g iv i ng up the train concession, Peter joined the staff of the Greenwich Water Club as early morning receptionist at the Fitness Center. Even at 5 a m , Peter had a cheerful greeting for the clients and he valued the friendly interactions with them. Over the years, Peter had many interests. He loved golf Eve Goldberg and worked part time for several years as a ranger and starter at the Griff Harris Golf Course. Fishing was another of his favorite activities. Most recently he got involved with building m i n iatu re sh ip models f rom scratch and modifying his Lil Red Express truck. Prior to Covid, he also had a regular poker night with friends of many years. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends and many acq ua i nta nces. There was a private viewing for family only. A mass of Christian burial was held on Jan. 2 at Sacred Heart Church, Greenwich. Burial followed at Greenwood Union Cemetery in O n D e c . 2 7, 2 0 2 0 , E v e Rye, NY. In lieu of flowers please Beren blu m G old berg, lov ing donate to a charity of choice in wife, mother, sister and daughter, Peter's Memory. passed away after a brief illness at the age of 58. Hoda Kosseim Eve was born in Columbus, Ind., on March 30, 1962, to Susan and Mar v in Berenblum. Eve graduated from Greenwich High School in 1980, where she was a varsity swimmer and basketball player; after class, she worked part-time at Outdoor Traders, where she was first introduced to the retail industry. At Amherst College, Eve majored in English a nd fou nde d t he I nter rac ia l For u m to add r e s s i s sue s of prejudice and discrimination. After graduating in 1984, she embarked upon a career in retail management in New York City, working at Abraham & Strauss,

Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Brooks Brothers as a Department Manager. In 1991, she married Brett Goldberg, an importer, and they moved to Greenwich, CT, where they started their family. Eve was a self less human being spreading so much light with her enormous heart and k i n d n a t u r e . Fo r o v e r t w o de c ade s , she w a s a pr ol i f ic volunteer and was extremely ac tive at Greenw ich Refor m Sy nagog ue , ser v i ng a s b ot h Publicity Chair and Co-President, and at the United Jew ish Association as the President of Women's Philanthropy, and was presented with the Women of Valor Award in 2014. Eve also volunteered on the board of the Junior League of Greenwich and the Junior Council of the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich. She also served for many years on the Anti-Defamation League's Connecticut Board, and in 2007, Eve was awarded ADL's Daniel R. Ginsberg Humanitarian Award. Eve and her family relocated to South Egremont, Mass. in 2014. Most recently, she served as Board Secretary of the Council on Aging in South Egremont, Mass. She was a talented painter, and was treasured by all who k new her for her caring and lov i ng nat u re, a nd her deep e m p a t h y. S h e w a s a n a v i d sw im mer a nd tr iath lete a nd developed a passion for kayaking. Eve a l s o had a n i mpr e s sive knack for crossword puzzles. Eve is sur v ived by her husband, Brett Goldberg and daughter, Isa Goldberg of South Egremont, Mass.; her father, Ma r v i n Beren blu m; a nd her mother, Susan Berenblum of Greenw ich, CT; her brother, A ndrew Berenblum, and her sister-in-law, Daryl Wieland of Bedford, NY; her brother, Ted Berenblum, and sister-in-law, Peggy Berenblum of Greenwich, C T; a n d h e r n i e c e s : S e l a Berenblum of Palo Alto, Calif.; Ramy Berenblum of Bedford, NY; Samantha Berenblum of New York, NY; and Julie Berenblum of Greenwich, CT. A private f uneral ser v ice was held for family members. In lieu of f lowers, please feel f ree to make a donation to Yemin Orde Youth Village, the Great Barring ton Council on Aging at 334 Main Street, Great Barrington, M A 01230 or the Anti-Defamation League.

Christena Holland C h r i s t e n a ( M c K i n n o n) Holland, 80, passed away S a t u r d a y, D e c . 2 6 , 2 0 2 0 a t Connecticut Hospice, Branford. She was born Sept. 3, 1940 in New Waterford, Canada, to the late John and Mary Catherine McKinnon. Ch r istena g rew up in the Greenw ich area where she became a professional school bus driver for Fairfield County until her retirement. Christena is survived by her two sons, Kenneth A. Holland and his wife Janenne Ellis of Sunset Beach, NC and Christopher J. Holland of Washington, NC; two brothers, Gerald McKinnon and his wife Yolanda of New Victoria, Canada and Jim McKinnon of Ontario, Canada; and two sisters, Juanita Nolan and her husband Dennis of Ontario, Canada and Joan McKinnon of Ontario, Canada. Christena was preceded in death by t h r e e b r o t h e r s: B e r n a r d McKinnon, James McKinnon and John McKinnon. To honor her life, a graveside service will be held on Thursday at Putnam/St. Mary’s Cemetery in Greenwich. In lieu of flowers, please make any memorial contributions to the American H e a r t A s s o c i a t i o n , P O B ox 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005.

Barbara was the daughter of A r t hu r Cassel l Gra f f l i n a nd Marvel Almedia Williams. She was predeceased by her brother Arthur Cassell Grafflin, Jr. and her husband of 62 years, James Kingan Cooper. Barbara attended Goucher College and received a B.A. from Pennsylvania College for Women (now Chatham University) in Pittsburgh, Pa. She went on to pursue advanced study at The University of Pittsburgh. Before marrying Jim in 1955, Barbara worked i n mercha nd isi ng at the Joseph Horne Company in Pittsburgh. Ba rba ra a nd Ji m l ive d i n G r e e nw ich , Con ne c t ic ut for nearly 40 years. Barbara was an av id reader, traveler, and arts enthusiast. She served as an active volunteer in the public schools, in libraries, and as a Deacon and Ruling Elder at the First Presbyterian Church of Greenwich. She was a longtime member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. Barbara is sur v ived by children Melissa Steidl (Karl) of Cornelius, NC, Jef f Cooper (Lynne Coll) of Norwalk, CT, and Thea Rochester (Craig) of Seattle, Washing ton, and by grandchildren Lindsay Beadon (Chris), Kurt Steidl (Niki) and Jane and Ian Rochester. She will be interred at a later date at the First Presbyterian Church in Greenwich. Contributions in her memory m a y b e m a d e t o t h e P. E . O . Sisterhood at peointernational. org/ jamesfuneralhomeLKN.com

Rosalie Searle Ro s a l ie A . S e a rle , 8 8 , of Stamford, CT passed away peacefully with her loving family by her bedside on Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020. Rosalie was born on March 17, 1932 in Hillsdale, MI, daughter of the late Carl and Genevive Bonfillio Rossetti. Rosalie devoted 41 years of her life to the Auxiliary of the Greenwich Hospital as a Buyer, Window Dresser and Gift Shop volunteer. Rosalie is survived by her devoted son Mark and his wife Toni-Marie of Poughkeepsie, NY. Her cherished niece Cyndy Rossetti of TX, and nephews, John Rossetti and his w ife Sharon of CA, William Rossetti and his wife Patty of TX, and Michael "Toby" Rossetti and his wife Belen of TX. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Gloria Rossetti of HI. Besides her parents Rosalie was predeceased by her beloved husband Bruce A. Searle, her brothers Carl and Jack Rossetti and her beloved sister-in-law Romelda "Mel" Rossetti. The fa m i ly wou ld l i ke to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to her caring neighbors Raiford Cockfield, Liz and Niel Segal, and her close friend, Aileen Houghton. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Dec. 30 at St. Leo's RC Church, Stamford, followed by a funeral procession to St. Ma r y's Mausoleu m, Greenwich, where entombment was held. In lieu of f lowers donations can be made in Rosalie's memory to Auxiliary Greenwich Hospital, 5 Perryridge Rd, Greenwich, CT 06830 or Hudson Valley Hospice, 374 Violet Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 or Innisfree Gardens, Innisfree Foundation, P.O Box 970, Millbrook, NY 12545

of the late Michael and Ethel Skalandunas of Byram, CT. A lover of all sports throughout his life, supporting his favorite teams the Mets, Giants and UCon n Lady Huskies, and never missing his childrens' or grandchildrens' games and tournaments; his favorite sport to play was golf. He was a four-year varsity member of t he f i rst Gre enw ich H ig h School golf team to win a state championship. After settling in Newtown w ith his family in 1965, Don became a member of the Newtown Country Club, winning the Club Championship twice during his 40 years there as a member. Don also had a love of old western movies and music. He knew all the words and would sing along to his favorite tunes. Don was a veteran of the United States Air Force, then spent his career as an electrical engineer for Ba r ne s Eng i ne er i ng a nd Lockheed Martin before retiring in 1997. Don is survived by his son, Gary Skalandunas and wife Alexa of Newtown, his daughter, Dana Jasensky and husband, Michael o f B e t h l e h e m , C T, a n d fou r grandchildren, Kyra, Zachary, Aliya and Ryan Jasensky. He leaves his brothers, Edward Skalandunas of Riverside, CT and Thomas Sk alandunas of Killingworth, CT, and sister Joy Kiratzopoulos of Melbourne, FL and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Michael and Peter Skalandunas. Don will be remembered for his sense of humor and ability to make people laugh along with his love and dedication to sports. No services are scheduled at this time. A celebration of Don's life will be planned for the warmer months. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Myra Schubin Myra Schubin died on Dec. 22 at the age of 88 in her home in Greenwich. She is survived by her ch i ld ren, Wendy a nd Eitan Haber and Peter Schubin a nd R achel Cive n ; a nd fou r grandchildren: Daniel, Brian, and Jason Haber and Riley Schubin. She was married to Milton, who predeceased her, for 54 years. My ra was a g raduate of New York City's Music and Art Hig h School, Hunter College and Columbia Law School. She was a clerk for Judge Walsh, an Assistant US Attorney and a corporate attorney with IBM for over 30 years. My ra's f i rst pa ssion wa s always music. She learned to play piano at age 4 and continued to take lessons until the pandemic. She sang with the Greenwich Choral Society and the Westchester Choral Society as well as the Temple Beth El choir in Chappaqua, when she lived in Westchester. She was a long t i me supp or ter of t he Greenwich Symphony and the Greenwich Chamber Players. Myra was also an avid reader and a longtime member of the Greenwich Library's Oral History Project. A private funeral will be held graveside. Donations in memory can be made to the Greenwich Librar y or the Greenw ich Symphony.

John O'Leary

Donald Skalandunas

Barbara Cooper

Ba rba ra Gra f f l i n Co op er, beloved mother and grandmother, passed peacefully on Dec. 26, 2020 in Huntersville, NC. Born Barbara Lyon Grafflin i n B a l t i m o r e , M d . i n 1 9 2 7,

Donald Henry "Skal" Skalandunas, 85, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020, in the comfort of his home i n t he compa ny of h is loving grandchildren. He joins his wife M. Elaine Skalandunas and son, Philip Skalandunas who predeceased him. Don was born on Dec. 7, 1935 in Greenwich Hospital, the son

J o h n F. O ' L e a r y, 8 2 , o f Greenwich, CT, passed away on Dec. 20, 2020 from COPD. John was born in Oak Pa rk , I L . H i s f a m i ly move d to Greenw ich in 1953 and he graduated from Greenwich High School in 1956. He served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Marine Corps and was discharged at the rank of Corporal in 1962. He attended the University of Dayton. After school, John returned to Greenwich. He was

Page 11 | Greenwich Sentinel

It's Not Too Late to Make a Spiritual New Year's Resolution

By Marek Zabriskie It’s Not Too Late to Make a Spiritual New Year’s Resolution Each year, Americans make New Year’s resolutions. Have you made yours? The most frequent resolutions are to lose weight and exercise more. Sadly, most of us give up their resolutions within less tha n a week . By Febr ua r y, we cannot even recall what resolutions we made. This is a great time, however, for each of us to make a spiritual resolution and put in place simple measures to help us carry out our resolutions. What could this look like? The key is to develop a daily spiritual practice. The best resolution that I know is to read a portion of the Bible daily or at least four or more times a week. Even a short, prayerful reading from Scripture in a slow, meditative manner will greatly strengthen your spiritual in the oil business and owned Sutton Oil and Northfield Fuel. John loved vacationing at his home in Narragansett, RI with his wife, Loretta, who he af fectionately referred to as "Rette". He enjoyed fishing off Block Island, Montauk and Long Island Sound on his boat "Irish Ayes". He is survived by his wife, Loretta, children Richard Kerr, Ji l l K i n nea r, Susa n Du r rel l, Jennifer Kerr, brother Michael O'Lear y, niece Mar y Meany, nephews James and Bernard Meany and grandchildren Kyle, Katii, Kristen, James, Kerrin and Konnor. He will be greatly missed by all. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Semper Fi Fund or a charity of your choice. Burial will be private and a celebrat ion of l i fe w i l l b e planned for a later date.

Cheryl Dorazio

growth. So, how do we go about this? First, find a simple Bible reading plan to guide you. Most people who begin at the opening chapter of the Bible (Genesis 1:1) and attempt to read through to the end of the Bible, fail. There are, after all, long books of the Bible that if read on their own can become extremely tedious and spiritually dry, if not read along with some spiritually richer portions of the Bible. The reading plan that I recommend is one that I created in 2011. It is si mple, e asy to fol low a nd c a n b e f o u n d a t : w w w. thecenterforbiblicalstudies.org under “Reading Plans.” The first reading plan helps readers to read three chapters of the Old Testament, a chapter of the New Testament and a psalm each day, each Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, there are no assigned readings, so that they participants can hear the Bible being read aloud in church or w h i le w atch i n g v i r t u a l worship during this pandemic. The second reading plan allows you to read through the New Testament, Proverbs and Psalms in a year. Both options are is great, spirituallyrewarding tasks. Many have told

me that it’s the most important spiritual experience that they have ever undertaken. A faithful reading provokes questions and stimulates readers to learn more about God and their faith. “Next Steps in The Bible Challenge,” found on the same website, provides a variety of options for how to build upon a basic year-long reading of the Bible or New Testament. These include: • Read the Bible or New Te s t a m e n t i n a d i f f e r e n t translation or a dif ferent language such as French or Spanish (if we have a basic reading ability) and seeing old texts come alive through different words. • Join a Bible study. You can do this online during the pandemic. Listen, learn and discuss Bible texts with others. • Join us at Christ Church Greenwich as our congregation reads “The Social Justice Bible Challenge: a 50-Day Bible • Study the Synoptic Gospels. Read Matthew, Mark and Luke side by side and note the similarities and differences. • Use “lectio divina,” an ancient monastic reading practice, that allows you to read a few verses at a time,

meditating slowly on them. Then of fer a prayer to G od in response and finally listen contemplatively for God to put a word on your heart. • Read a Bible with a particular focus such as: “The Jewish Annotated New Testament,” “The Poverty and Social Justice Bible,” “The Green Bible,” “The Life Recover y Bible,” “The Archeological Study Bible,” “The C.S. Lewis Bible,” “The Financial Stewardship Bible,” “The Freedom Bible,” “The Inclusive Bible” or “The People’s Bible.” Each is enriching in its own way. • Use Bible memorization to glean from Scripture. Read a short portion of the Bible (I recommend the New Testament and specif ically one of the gospels) each day. When you f ind a passage that touches your heart, write it down on an index card. Carry it with you for a day or a week while you memorize it. Pastor Rick Warren, author of the bestselling The Purpose Driven Life, calls Bible memorization his greatest spiritual tool. • Commit to attending church each Sunday in person or virtually. (Christ Church Greenwich offers Livestream worship every Sunday).

• Join Education for Ministry (EfM) an outstanding, in-depth, four-year program that you commit to one year at a time that takes you on a deep journey into the heart of the Bible and Christianity. • If you str ug g le w ith reading the Bible, read “The Message” – a paraphrase by noted spiritual writer and pastor Eugene Petersen, which makes Bible stories and verses come alive in fresh new ways. • Make the Sabbath sacred. Ensure that Sunday or another day is devoted to spiritual, mental and physical renewal each week. God designed us for Sabbath rest, and we harm ourselves and those around us by disregarding Sabbath living. • Become a pilgrim. Plan a pilgrimage to the Holy Land when the pandemic ends. Walk in the footsteps of Jesus and other Bible figures. Visit Iona, where Christianity first came to Scotland, Rome, the center of the Roma n Catholicism, Canterbury, the heart of the A nglican Communion, or Wittenburg, Germany, home to Martin Luther. • Read one devotiona l book. I recommend C.S. Lewis’ “Screwtape Letters” or a book by Joan Chittister, Frederick

Buech ner, Esther de Waa l, M ichael May ne or Thomas Merton. • Meet once a month with a spiritual director to discuss your relationship with God, your prayer life, and important decisions that you are making that impact your soul. There are many ways to nur ture your spiritual life. The clergy at Christ Church Greenwich and each Greenwich faith community stand ready to assist you as you nurture your spiritual life. Psycholog ists say that the reason why we break our New Year’s resolutions is that we have no one to hold us accountable for achieving them. This year, choose one way to grow spiritually. Write down your commitment. Tell a few people you love about it. Ask them to help hold you accountable to achieve it. Report back to them once monthly on your progress. Your soul is God’s precious a gift to you. You owe it to yourself to nurture your soul, so that you can thrive and live the largest life possible.

trusted with all her heart. Cher yl had a passion for family gatherings, for math, and for helping others. Many will lovingly remember her as one of the most thoughtful and giving persons they have ever known. Her presence at family gatherings and among the members of First Lutheran—and her delicious pumpkin pies—will be greatly missed. A long w ith her husband, Tony, Cher yl is sur v ived by her daughter Carrie (Dorazio) Gross and husband Shane and their two children, Simon and Kira; her son David D o r a z i o a n d w i fe L o u a n n a (Gill) and their four children, Carmella, Jonathan, Lillianna, and Timothy; mother-in-law Mildred (Putrino) Dorazio; and siblings Cindy Schroer (David); Steven Rathbun (Annie); Darryl R ath bu n (Tracey); a nd fou r nieces and nephews. A viewing was held at Coxe & Graziano on Dec. 27. A service of Christian burial was held at First Lutheran Church on Dec. 28. In lieu of f lowers, the family requests all donations to be directed to First Lutheran Church.

responsibilities increased from inspecting cans, to managing multiple manufacturing facilities, to performing in progressively senior executive r ole s . I n l ate r ye a r s , R ay completed the Harvard Advanced Management P r o g r a m . R ay e ve nt u a l l y served as General Manager of Continental Can Company, USA, and President of CCC International. Ray's serious nature and plain-spoken manner helped him find the right balance in international n e g o t i at i o n s , ove r c o m i n g potential cultural and language differences as he built merger and acquisition strategies. Ray met Janet M. Sloan (née Kelley) while both were attending UCLA. They married in 1949. Janet accompanied Ray on trips to 30 of the 40 countries he traveled to while working for Continental. Ray was active in his church, St. M ichael the A rcha ngel. In retirement, Ray participated in the Retired Men's Association of Greenwich. Ray and Janet enjoyed nu merous v isits from their children and grandchildren, and socializing with friends at the Greenwich Country Club. Ray was predeceased by Janet M. Sloan, his loving wife of 65 years. He is survived by his children Nancy Hamner (Nat), Carol MacDonald (Reggie), Laurie Sloan (Frank Noelker), and A ndy Slo a n (A my Gug ig); granddaughters Kelley Berning (Matt), Maggie Bullard (Joel), Catherine Hendrick (Ben), Abby MacDonald, and Annie Hamner (Xavier Audier); and six great-grandchildren. A private memorial service for family will be held in the future. Donations in remembrance of Ray Sloan can be made to the American Red Cross.

Stephen was preceded in death by his father, Anthony Smolewsk i, and his sister, Barbara Smolewski Saverine. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jennifer Ortiz S m o l e w s k i , h i s m o t h e r, Barbara Smolewsk i; his daughter, Caitlin Smolewski Lievano and her husband, Jose; his son Michael Smolewsk i and his w ife, Joanna; his granddaughter, Ana Mercedes Lievano, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Stephen was born in Port Che s te r, N Y on M a r ch 1 1 , 1952, to Barbara and Anthony Smolewsk i and grew up in D a r ien , CT. He g raduate d from Northeastern University in 1975 with a degree in Chemistry and from the Physician Assistant Program at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in 1980. On Aug. 23, 1980, he married Jennifer Ortiz and on May 9, 1986 and Nov. 27, 1990, respectively, he welcomed his daughter Caitlin and son Michael. Stephen was a devote d husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, and his family was the joy of his life. He enjoyed traveling, especially to Mexico, Colombia, and the Caribbean islands. He was also an avid stamp, coin, and rock collector and loved gardening. Stephen was a problem-solver who often took on difficult projects at work and around the house. He had a huge heart and was loved by everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. The family would like to express thanks to the help and care provided by Greenwich Hospital and the Bendheim Ca ncer Center. I f desi re d, donations can be made in his honor to the Bendheim Cancer Center c a r e of Gr e enw ich Hospital Foundation, 35 River Road, Cos Cob, CT 06807 or giving.greenhosp.org/giving/ give-now/

William Dordelman

on the boards of directors of numerous corporations as well as serving as a director for the New York chapter of the Young Presidents' Organization, the Harvard Business School Club of Westchester, Saint Vincent's Hospital, and Mid Fairf ield Youth Hockey. He was also a director and past president of t he G r e enw ich Cr o q uet Club and was active in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program. A l w ay s f u n-l ov i n g a n d welcom i ng , Bi l l develop e d lifelong friendships through his active involvement in the Beta Chapter of Zeta Psi Fraternity, the Wee Burn Country Club of Darien, CT and the Ocean Reef Club of Key Largo, FL. Bill was also an avid sports and gamesman; he loved racquet sports, f ishing, croquet, and backgammon. And while he was a devoted New York Giants and New York Rangers fan, he always cheered the loudest when he was attending the games or performances of his children and grandchildren. He was the loving husband of Ba rba ra, t he proud a nd ador i n g f at he r of D or ot hy Pearson, William Dordelman (Sa l ly), Patr icia R ipperger (Philip), and Lauren Gantt ( Jason), and the enthusiastic a nd c a r i ng g ra nd fat her of eleven grandchildren: Taylor and Kathr y n Pearson, Jack and Eliza Dordelman, Philip, Me g ha n, Peter, a nd Cla i re Ripperger, and Christopher, Katelyn, and Will Gantt. He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Dordelman Schmid (Udo), his sister-in-law Dorothy Daly, and seven nieces and nephews. A pr ivate fa m i ly bu r ia l was held on Dec. 28, with a celebration of his life to be scheduled at later date when we c a n on c e a g a i n g at h e r safely. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the National Mu lt iple S clerosis S o c iet y and/or the Dordelman Family Jefferson Scholarship Fund at the University of Virginia.

Albert Sloan

Nov. 1, 1952 - Dec. 1, 2020 Cheryl L. (Rathbun) Dorazio, 6 8, was c a l le d home to her heavenly father on Dec. 16 with her husband, Tony (Anthony), by her side. Born in Greenwich, CT, Cheryl was the daughter of Merrill H. and Carmen R. (Wassman) Rathbun. Cheryl was a graduate of Greenwich High School and the University of Connecticut. She spent several years as the office manager at St. Paul's Lutheran Church and more recently First Lutheran Church, both of Greenwich, before retiring two weeks before her passing. Cheryl also provided healthcare for her home-bound motherin-law over the past 12 years, a true testament to her love and devotion for her family. Even more importantly, she loved her Lord and Savior, whom she

A lber t R . "R ay" Sloan passed away on April 15, 2020, at t he age of 93 . R ay wa s born in Los Angeles, Calif., on Oct. 2, 1926, to Albert C. a nd Grace A . Sloa n. A f ter serving as a quartermaster in the U.S. Navy during World War II and earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering at UCLA, Ray joined Continental Can Company. Over 36 years his

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Stephen Smolewski Stephen Anthony Smolewsk i, age 68, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020.

Longtime Darien, CT resident, William (Bill) Forsyth Dordelman, aged 80, passed away peacef u l ly at his home on Dec. 19, 2020. A man who achieved so much in his professional life, Bill always considered his greatest a c c ompl i sh m e nt to b e h i s family. Bill was born in Glen Ridge, NJ on Oct. 18, 1940 to Wilbert Ernst Dordelman and Dorothy Forsyth Dordelman. He met his future bride of sixty-one years, Barbara Ann Gaddis, down the Jersey shore in Bay Head. The couple started their married life at the University of Virginia, where Bill was a member of the Thomas Jefferson Society, t h e R o t u n d a S o c i e t y, t h e Cornerstone Society, and the Lawn Society. Despite being a busy married father of two, Bill managed to attain his B.A. with distinction in 1962. The young family then headed to Harvard, where Bill earned his M.B.A. and graduated in the top third of his class in 1964. Bill launched his impressive c a r e e r a t G e n e r a l Fo o d s , where his twenty-two-year tenure culminated with him serving as the President of the Food Products Division. He then served as Co-Chief Executive Of f icer of the Manischewitz Company and Chairman and Chief Executive O f f ic er of Colorado P r i me Corporation. Bill capped off his career as a principal at Kohlberg & Company until his retirement in 2010. He served

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Page 12 | Greenwich Sentinel

Worship Services Information

Assemblies of God Harvest Time Church 1338 King St., 203-531-7778 www.htchurch.com In-Person Worship Services: Sun, 8:30, 10 & 11:30am (meeting on a limited basis in accordance with CDC guidelines and Connecticut’s executive orders). All services are streamed on the church’s website and social media outlets. Read The Bible 2021: join here facebook. com/groups/bible2021. Baptist First Baptist Church 10 Northfield St.; 203-869-7988 www.firstbaptistgreenwich. com Sunday Servings: 11:30am, Facebook Live or for Devotion: 1111:25am (Dial in 701-802-5355, Access code 360922). Greenwich Baptist Church 10 Indian Rock Ln; 203-869-2807 www.greenwichbaptist.org In-person Worship and live stream (Facebook & YouTube): Sun, 11am. Catholic Sacred Heart Church 95 Henry St.; 203-531-8730 www.sacredheartgreenwich. org In-person Mass: Mon-Fri: 7am (in Chapel); Sat: Vigil, 4pm (also live streamed); Sun: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30am (in Sanctuary). (Only by registration - call or text: 203-5599256 or email: sacredheartgrn@ optonline.net). Sacrament of Reconciliation (Church) by appt.; Sacrament of Baptism: Sun, 12:30pm (call the parish office in advance). The 2021 Mass Book is open for Mass, Altar Flowers and Altar Bread & Wine requests. St. Catherine of Siena and St. Agnes St. Agnes: 247 Stanwich Rd; St. Catherine: 4 Riverside Ave; 203-637-3661 www.stc-sta.org Masses: Mon-Fri: Daily Mass at St. Catherine’s Church – in-person and livestream, 7am; Distribution of Holy Communion at front door of Rectory; Mask and Social Distance required: 5:15-5:45pm. Sat: Confessions at St. Agnes Church (specific dates in the bulletin), 3-4pm; Vigil Mass at St. Catherine’s Church – in-person and livestream, 5pm. Sun: Distribution of Holy Communion at front door of Rectory; Mask and Social Distance required, 7:30-8am; Mass at St. Agnes Church – in-person, 8:30am; Mass at St. Catherine’s Church – inperson and livestream, 10:30am; Language Masses at St. Agnes Church – in-person, 11am (French: 2nd Sun of the month; Spanish: 4th Sun of the month); Distribution of Holy Communion at front door of Rectory; Mask and Social Distance required, 5-5:30pm. Ongoing: Food & Essentials Drive for Neighbor to Neighbor (there will be a car or SUV with an open trunk in the parking lot across from St. Catherine’s church on Tuesdays, 9-11am for drop-off donations. Donations can also be dropped at the Sign-in table at Sat, Sun or Daily Mass at St. Agnes).. St. Mary Church 178 Greenwich Ave.; 203-869-9393 www.stmarygreenwich.org Public Mass: Mon-Fri, 12:05pm (no reservations are needed - limited to 50 people). Sat: Vigil, 4pm; Spanish (call 203-912-0246 for reservations), 7:30pm. Sun: 9, 10:30am & 12:15pm, (must make reservation in advance by calling the Parish Office, Thu or Fri, 9am-3pm and speak to the receptionist). Confessions: Sat, 2:45-3:45pm, on the patio. Virtual Mass: Sun, 12:15pm, with Fr. La Pastina on Facebook. Visit EWTN.com for daily Mass at 8am with encore at 12pm. Sunday Family Rosary: Sun, 7:30pm (No registration is necessary), livestreamed on YouTube (also listen by phone). St. Michael the Archangel 469 North St.; 203-869-5421 www.stmichaelgreenwich.com Sunday Mass: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30am (All masses are Live Streamed on Zoom. Log onto the website at stmichaelgreenwich.com to access the Zoom Link or the LIVE Stream Masses and the Mass Reservation System).

St. Timothy Chapel 1034 North St.; 203-869-5421

Daily Mass: Mon-Sat: 7:30 & 9:30am. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: Wed, 10am-4pm; Livestreamed, 10-11am. Confessions: Wed, 10-11am & 3-4pm. St. Paul Church 84 Sherwood Ave.; 203-531-8741 www.stpaulgreenwich.org Public Mass Celebration: Mon-Thu: 9am; Sat: 4pm (Vigil); Sun: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30am (Reservation is required only for Sunday Mass by visiting the homepage or by calling 203-531-8741, ext. 4). Holy Days: Vigil: 5:30pm, 9am & 12:15pm. Online daily Mass at EWTN.com, 8am with encore at 12pm. Daily Mass also available on Bishop Robert Barron’s website at wordonfire. org/daily-mass. Confessions by appointment only – call 203-5318741, ext. 2. Bereavement Group: Jan. 7, 5-6:30pm, in the Parish Hall (meets every other week), contact Dianne Deachan at 914327- 0447 or diannefdf@yahoo. com with any questions. St. Roch Church 10 St. Roch Ave.; 203-869-4176 www.strochchurch.com Mass: (Reservations and/or for viewing via live streaming): MonFri: 7:30pm; Sat: 5pm; Sun: 7:30am (Concelebrated for Previously Scheduled 9:30am Mass Intentions), 10:30am, 12pm (Spanish). Mass Intentions: consult the bulletin for time. 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: 203-6809095, code is 520520*. Community First Church of Round Hill 464 Round Hill Rd.; 203-629-3876 www.firstchurchofroundhill. com (If you need to reach Rev. Leo W. Curry, pastor, or any other personnel, call 203-629-3876 and leave a message or email fcroundhill@ outlook.com). Round Hill Community Church 395 Round Hill Rd.; 203-869-1091 www. roundhillcommunitychurch.org Worship, Children’s Ministries and Youth Fellowship: Sun. 10-10:30am, in the Church, registration is required. Weekly service also available online. Thrive: biweekly high school gathering, Wed, 6pm. Foundations: biweekly middle school gathering, Fri, 6pm. November Bible Study: Stories of Advent, Mondays at 11 am, registration required. Congregational The First Congregational Church 108 Sound Beach Ave; 203-637-1791 www.fccog.org Worship: Outdoor Service: Sun 8-9am, Memory Garden (sign-up online or call the church office); Virtual Worship: through livestreaming on YouTube and Facebook, and broadcast on WGCH (1490 AM or 105.5 FM). Connect during the week: Wednesday: Wisdom on Wednesdays (sent by Rev. Patrick Collins); Thursday: Faith Formation at Home for All and Faith Formation for Children (sent by Rosemary Lamie). North Greenwich Congregational 606 Riversville Rd.; 203-869-7763 www.northgreenwichchurch. org Online Worship Service: Sun 10:30am, via Zoom (email Rev. Halac at Pastor@northgreenwichchurch. org or call the church). Second Congregational Church 139 E Putnam Ave.; 203-869-9311 www.2cc.org Contemporary Worship: Sat, 5pm. Traditional Sunday Service: 10:30am. Services available online, details at 2cc.org. Episcopal Anglican Church of the Advent 606 Riversville Rd.; 203-861-2432 www.churchoftheadvent.org Service: Sun, 9am, Holy Eucharist. Sunday School during school year.

Christ Church Greenwich 254 E. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-6600 www.christchurchgreenwich. org Worship: Sundays: 8am Eucharist (in-person); 10am Eucharist (inperson & livestream/on-demand); **5pm Choral Evensong (in-person & livestream/on-demand)**; 8pm Compline (livestream/on-demand)

**No 5pm Choral Evensong January 10 & 17. This service will resume its weekly schedule starting January 24.**

Monday - Friday: 8am Morning Prayer (via Zoom); Tuesday: 10am Eucharist (in-person); Thursday: 6:30pm Choral Evensong (in-person & livestream/on-demand). Pacific House Meal-a-Month: Pacific House seeks volunteers to cook dinner to feed 40 men. Next Steps in the Bible Challenge: Jan. 10, 11am, via Zoom. Terry’s Bible Study: Wed, 10am, Chapel (in-person) or via Zoom. St. Barnabas Episcopal Church 954 Lake Ave.; 203-661-5526 www.stbarnabasgreenwich.org Sunday Worship: Spoken Eucharist, 8am, Church; Holy Eucharist with music, 10am, Church and Livestream; Family Eucharist, 10am, Parish Hall. (sign up for inperson service: signupgenius.com/ go/4090e4aadac2ea3ff2-sunday1). St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 200 Riverside Ave.; 203-637-2447 www.stpaulsriverside.org Worship Service: every Sun, 10:15am, Outside on the Meadow. Longest Night Service: 7pm, outside in the Courtyard - registration required. Ongoing: Neighborto-Neighbor Food Drive: Every Thu, 10-11:30am, in the parking lot. The Living Nativity: Jan. 10, 1pm, outside. Bible Study: Jan. 12, 10:30am, via Zoom. St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church 350 Sound Beach Ave; 203-637-2262 www.saintsaviours.org In-person Outdoor Service: Sun, 11am. 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. Newcomers Hike & Coffee (for women): Jan. 11, 9:30-10:30am, Pinetum Trails, 130 Bible St, register. Congregation Shir Ami 1273 E. Putnam Ave, PO Box 312, Riverside; 203-900-7976; www. congregationshirami.org All services, programs and celebrations are available online via Zoom. Virtual Shabbat Service: Jan. 9, 10-11:30am via Zoom. Virtual Women’s Rosh Chodesh: Jan. 11, 7:30-8:30pm, via Zoom. 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. Religious School: Sun, 9:30am. Hebrew School: Wed, 4:30pm. Temple Sholom 300 E. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-7191 www.templesholom.com Services: live-streamed via Zoom and Facebook: Fri, 6:30pm; Sat, 10am; Sun, 8:15am. Lunch ‘n Learn: Tue, 12-1pm, via Zoom. Limited inperson Friday night Shabbat service, registration is required, lori.baden@ templesholom.com. A Virtual Conversation With Mayim Bialik: Jan. 7, 7:30-8:30pm, register. Family Kahoot Game: Jan. 10, 3-4pm. The Future Of Hate Online And Offline And How We Fight Back: Jan. 14, 7-8pm, via Zoom, register. Lutheran First Lutheran Church 38 Field Point Rd.; 203-869-0032 www.firstpaul.com Indoor Service: Sun, 10:30am. Bible Study: Sun, 11:45am. St. Paul Lutheran Church 286 Delavan Ave.; 203-531-8466 www.firstpaul.com Indoor Service: Sun, 9am. Bible

Study: Sun, 10:15am. Wednesday After-School program: Snacks & Crafts, 3-4pm; Bible Stories & Catechesis, 4-5pm; Community Dinner, 5:30pm (all are welcome); Bible Study on Romans (adults), 6:30pm. Methodist Diamond Hill United Methodist 521 E. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-2395 www.diamondhillumc.com Online Worship Service: every Sunday, 10am, followed by a time of Fellowship (Zoom details can be found on the website). 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: 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. Bethel African Methodist Episcopal 42 Lake Ave.; 203-661-3099 Worship via teleconference: Sun, 11am and until further notice (Dialin number: 425-436-6380, Access code: 612220). Nondenominational Revive Church 90 Harding Rd., Old Greenwich (Old Greenwich Civic Center) www.myrevive.org Worship Service: Sun, 10am, Holiday Inn 2703 Summer St. Stamford. Online Sermons available on Facebook (facebook.com/ myrevivechurchgreenwich) and on Youtube. All groups are online. Direct any prayer needs to the prayer chain at 203-536-2686 or revivecfm@gmail.com. Stanwich Church 202 Taconic Rd.; 203-661-4420 www.stanwichchurch.org Events marked by an * require registration at: stanwichchurch. org/event Sunday Service: 10am, Online. *ALPHA Series (13-Weeks) – starts Jan. 4, 7pm, Zoom. How to Live Out Your Faith (6-Weeks) – starts Jan. 6, 7pm, Zoom.

The Albertson Memorial Church 293 Sound Beach Ave; 203-637-4615 www.albertsonchurch.org Sunday Service held online via Zoom. Trinity Church 1 River Rd.; 203-618-0808 www.trinitychurch.life In-Person Services: Sun, 10:45am, Hyatt Regency Greenwich, 1800 E Putnam Ave. Online Services: Sun, 9:45am, youtube.com/c/ House TrinityChurchLife/live. Churches: Sun, 9:45am, Fairfield County, CT & Westchester County, NY. Alpha (online): Tue, 7:308:45pm. Newcomer Zoom Welcome: Jan. 10, 11am. Presbyterian First Presbyterian Church 1 W. Putnam Ave.; 203-869-8686 www.fpcg.org Sanctuary Worship: Sun, 10am (Traditional Service); 5pm (Contemporary Service), register. Online Worship: Sun, 10-11am at fpcg.org/live. Sunday School online, 10:15-11am. The Prayer Room: Tue, 11am & Thu, 8pm. Grace Church of Greenwich 8 Sound Shore Dr., Suite 280 203-861-7555 www.gracechurchgreenwich. com Worship: Sun, 10am, Woman’s Club of Greenwich, 89 Maple Ave. (Outside. Please bring a mask and a chair or a blanket). All are welcome. Living Hope Community Church 38 West End Ave; 203-637-3669 www.LivingHopeCT.org In-Person Worship: Sun, 10am, Sanctuary (tickets available at EventBrite by Friday 10am). Worship Service online: Sun, 10-11:15am (YouTube or Facebook). Coffee & Fellowship: Sun, 11:30am-12pm, via Zoom. Wednesday Prayer: Wed, 8:30-9am, online. Prayer for the Nation: Jan 7, 7:30-8pm, Online.

Page 13 | Greenwich Sentinel

FOOD

The 5 Cookbooks to Pre-Order in 2021 cookbooks. There are five amazing cookbooks coming out this year that I am particularly excited about. In one way or another all of these books seem to inspire a sense of either adventure or nostalgia, not just in cooking but also in life. There is something magical about experiencing adventure through food. To be able to create recipes that bring people to the streets of Venice or the boulangeries of Paris is awe inspiring. The flip side of that coin is being able to create a home full of cozy smells and inviting flavors, which is an achievement and undertaking all its own. Since I could not in good conscience order the books in any other way, the books have been ordered by release date. You can bet that I’ll have them pre-ordered from Diane’s Books at least a month in advance. Happy reading and happy eating!

By Emma Barhydt

How Wild Things Are: Cooking, fishing and hunting at the bottom of the world by Analiese Gregory - to be released February 9th, 2021. Now that 2020 has come and gone and we’ve all learned how to bake bread, and filled our recipe cards, what’s next in the world of cooking? For me, it’s new cookbooks, new cookbooks, and new

How Wild Things Are celebrates nature and the slow food life on the rugged and sometimes wild island of Tasmania. When chef Analiese Gregory relocated after years of pushing through her anxiety

and cooking in high-end restaurants, she found a new rhythm to the days she spent hunting, fishing, cooking, and foraging—a girl’s own adventure at the bottom of the world. With more than 50 recipes, including cheese making and charcuterie, interwoven with Analiese’s thoughtful narrative and accompanied by stunning photography, it is also a window into the joys of travel, freedom, vulnerability, and the perennial search for meaning in what we do. This is a blueprint for how to live, as much as how to cook.

art and science of fermentation. Written with her characteristic charm, Bread, Cheese, and Wine is a fascinating look at how each product is made, from harvest through fermentation. Visiting grain fields, vineyards, and dairies, Katie brings the stories and science of these foods to the table, explains the process of each craft, and introduces the people behind them.

Cheese, Wine, and Bread: Discovering the Magic of Fermentation in England, Italy, and France by Katie Quinn - to be released April 27th, 2021. Delicious staples of a great meal, bread, cheese, and wine develop their complex flavors through a process known as fermentation. Master craftspeople dedicate their lives to creating the best of the best of each—from cheesemongers in London to boulangeries in France to family-run vineyards in Italy, following methods and techniques that have been honed and passed down for centuries. Katie Quinn spent months as an apprentice with some of Europe’s most acclaimed experts to study the

Please turn to page 17

Who Has the Best Hot Chocolate in Greenwich?

By Julia Lucey

Nothing makes a cold winter day better than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Aside from serving a practical purpose (ushering in a feeling of warmth after enduring below-freezing temperatures), a cup of cocoa tastes of childhood snow days and evenings by the fireplace. As we enter the thick of w i nter, hopef u l ly a wa r m, chocolatey drink can offer a bit of comfort to your days. We all know the simplicity of throwing together some hot milk and a package of Swiss Miss, but (as tends to be with most foods) there’s something to be said about a freshly made hot chocolate from a café. Luckily, there is no hot chocolate shortage here in town, so here are a few of the best spots to visit this season to enjoy this staple winter treat. Of course, Greenwich is home to many cafés and coffee shops, each with their own delicious hot chocolate, but a few serve a standout cocoa that can’t be missed. These are the hot chocolates that are the perfect balance of chocolate and milk. They are rich but not too heavy, so they leave room for

By Julia Lucey

a pastry to complement the drink. They are foamy but still flavorful, topped with whipped cream or f rothed m i l k to complete the whole experience. It probably goes without saying, too, that it should be hot because there is something very disappointing about a sip of lukewarm hot chocolate when you’re expecting a warm cup to hold and drink to taste. While they all follow these general criteria, these hot chocolates are all unique in their own rights, and surely there is one to satisfy your hot cocoa cravings. First, Old Greenwich’s Sweet Pea’s Baking Company is a cozy spot to pick up a hot chocolate to go, or to sit for a while and take in the town’s activity. Sweet Pea’s never misses in making a hot cocoa that is neither too “chocolatey” nor too “milky.” Never too hot but never not hot enough, it is always ready to drink and immediately rewarding. This hot chocolate is both creamy and frothy rather than being too thin. What’s more, a trip to Sweet Pea’s is hardly complete without one of their pastries, whether it be one of their beloved cinnamon buns or their unbeatable brownies, if you’re really committed to all

Pictured here are our two favorites from left to right: Meli Melo and Sweat Pea. Photo by Julia Lucey. things chocolate. Méli-Mélo Crêperie on Greenwich Avenue is another location all cocoa-lovers must try. Currently open for both indoor and outdoor seating (heaters keep the outside tables perfectly warm), this

is definitely a hot chocolate to sit down and enjoy as a perfect precrepe beverage. Before you even take a sip, you can tell it will be a good one -- it is served in a tall glass and (for .50 extra) topped with a beautiful spiral of whipped

cream. For t ho s e who love a n especially rich hot cocoa, visit La Fenice on the Avenue. While this spot is primarily known for their gelatos, their menu also includes a number of Italian-inspired coffees and hot drinks, hot chocolate being one of them. La Fenice’s cocoa is dense and chocolatey and definitely on the filling side, all in the best way possible. Just as many Greenwich Ave. restaurants this winter, they have outdoor seating available to take a break and enjoy your drink. As hot chocolate is a drink to be enjoyed by everyone, non-milk drinkers should check out CFCF Coffee on Greenwich Ave. CFCF has a selection of milk substitutes, including almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, and oat milk (along with all your standard dairy milk options, too). CFCF’s hot cocoa is on the lighter side, and although this may just be a preference, this hot chocolate tastes especially good with a whipped cream topping. The chocolate does settle a bit on the bottom, but it is nothing a little stirring can’t fix. Some honorable mentions g o o ut to A d a’s K itc h e n a n d

Cof fe e , Jo e’s St ud io, a nd t he new Greenw ich Librar y Café. Riverside’s Ada’s cocoa is perfect for a winter weekend breakfast run along with one of their highly acclaimed bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches. Joe’s, similar to Ada’s, is a light and milky cocoa with a hint of chocolate. As for the Café at Greenwich Library, what better reason to get out and show support to the recently renovated and redesigned café than to enjoy one of their wonderfully rich and foamy hot chocolate! Aside from an apparent lack of marshmallows across the board, you really cannot go wrong at any one of these locations. In the eyes of this author, Sweet Pea’s and MéliMélo vie for the Best Hot Chocolate in Greenwich title as they really do check all the aforementioned boxes. They both have plenty of chocolate (a must), are creamy and foamy in texture, and, above all else, evoke that feeling of coming in after a day of sledding until your fingers and toes have gone numb from the cold. With over two months of winter weather still ahead of us, head out to any of these locations for one of t he s e a s on’s most delectable desserts.

Have You Been to the New Abilis Cafe?

Greenwich Library’s new and improved Café opened for business last month and is now offering no-contact pick-up services to the public. The Café is part of the Library’s ReImagine Renovation project and is located just off the new Baxter Courtyard, diagonal to the Berkeley Theater. The Café is an especially important project in the community for its partnership with Abilis, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing support and services for over 700 individuals with developmental disabilities. As one of Abilis’ areas of focus is workforce development, eight of the program’s participants have been prepared to work at the Café. Michelle Yoon, a 22-year-old Abilis participant, shared her experience of training then working at the library café this past month. Michelle works Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 to 3, working the register, preparing orders, helping keep the café clean, and bringing out orders to customers.

Prior to opening, Michelle and her coworkers underwent a training process where they learned the skills needed to operate the cafe. “When I first came in, I had to learn how to use the cash register. It’s called the POS system,” Michelle explained. “I had to learn how to put orders in the machine and to give change back.” In addition to working the register, a big part of Michelle’s work at the Café is preparing customers’ orders. While she knew how to make coffee at home, she had to learn how to operate the Café’s coffee machine. “I also learned how to make coffee,” she says. “For example, I’d press ‘cappuccino’ in the machine and then it would come out of the machine. I would have to choose a large or small cup for the order. I did a lot of training, and after training, I became a pro at it.” She also reflected on some of the highlights of her job thus far: “I believe my favorite parts about working at the Café are how quickly I’ve learned how to do everything and how I’m doing working with the

HAPPY HO L I DAY S You never know who will be stopping by the new Abilis cafe. We ran into First Selectman Fred Camillo when we were there, seen here with Michelle-Yoon and Harrison-Peloso. Photo by Julia Lucey.

SERVI NG QUALITY DINING OPTIONS DINING

ORDERING

PICKU P

I N S I D E & OU TSI DE

PHO N E & O N LI N E

CA RRYO UT & CU R B S I D E

WE EXPAN DED N EXTDOOR! New space for social distancing and private events.

203.992.1888 2 8 0 R a i l r o a d A v e nu e G r e e nw i c h , C T 0 6 8 3 0 be lla n on na g reenw i ch . co m

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customers. The second thing I like is how my friends come in to buy something and eventually see the Café when it’s open to the public, but not now.” Michelle has been a diligent worker at the Café during the preparation period and opening weeks as Heather Brown, the Café’s manager, shared. “Michelle worked a full week for me helping me train the other employees on the POS system. We did a lot of role playing to demonstrate customer service, and she was amazing. We practiced how to treat a good customer, a frustrated customer, a happy customer, it was really fun.” Michelle added: “Sometimes, when Heather is working alone, she may call me in to help out.” The Café serves a selection of coffee, teas, and other beverages, as well as breakfast and lunch specials. The menu consists of items from many local favorites that have partnered with the Café: Garden Catering, Upper Crust Bagel Company, Arcuri’s Pizza & Salad, COBS Bread, and Happiness Is Back Country Market & Café. Coffee is provided for by Shearwater Coffee Roasters, a Fairfield County based company that makes smallbatch organic coffee. Stop by for one of Michelle’s favorite options: a bagel, a chocolate croissant, a ham and cheese croissant, or a hot chocolate! “The Café has the best hot chocolate!” Michelle shared. The Café is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for no-contact pick up only. To order, patrons can visit greenwichlibrarycafe. org for the complete menu and order form. To pick-up, call 203-622-7992 from the Baxter Courtyard at the main Library branch. As the library remains closed at this time, visitors are asked to remain outside the Café and wait for their order to be brought out to them. Follow the Café’s Facebook and Instagram accounts @greenwichlibrarycafe and Twitter @ glibrarycafe for news and updates.

Page 14 | Greenwich Sentinel

Astrology for Week of Jan. 10, 2021

Diane's Books of Greenwich is celebrating 30 years!

CAPRICORN 22 Dec-20 Jan No matter how often you have failed success is on its way now, so don’t give up. This week’s New Moon in your sign makes this the perfect time to start something new, personally or professionally, so get sorted and get working on something important to you.

CANCER 22 June-23 July The Capricorn New Moon will make those you live or work with a bit emotional so don’t expect too much by way of logic or common sense. And don’t waste time trying to explain to them why they’re doing things wrong – they won’t want to understand.

AQUARIUS 21 Jan-19 Feb Whatever occurs this this week stay calm. That may sound ominous but nothing bad will happen – it’s just that you’re likely to overreact to events that at other times would leave you unmoved. Your fears are only as big as you allow them to be.

LEO 24 July-23 Aug This week’s New Moon will give you the energy you need to get things done. It will also encourage you to improve your lifestyle, maybe take more exercise, change your diet. Work and wellbeing are closely linked – if you work too hard your health will suffer.

PISCES 20 Feb-20 March Someone will drop a subtle hint this week that they expect you to ride to the rescue and get them out of trouble. Being the gallant sort you’ll no doubt do so but make sure they know you’re doing them a one-off favour. After that they’re on their own.

VIRGO 24 Aug-23 Sept Helpful cosmic activity in Capricorn marks an end to thinking and planning: now the time has come to act. No matter how laid-back you happen to be you’ll find the drive and passion to seize the initiative and show the world you can be a self-starter too.

ARIES 21 March-20 April A midheaven New Moon makes this the perfect time to make your mark on the work front. Don’t wait for others to give you permission, take the initiative and start the ball rolling. Employers and senior colleagues will be mightily impressed.

LIBRA 24 Sept-23 Oct Stay on good terms with loved ones this week as they’ll be unlikely to help you out next weekend if you’ve recently had words. Ignore their grumbling and efforts at coercion and resist the urge to answer back – it will only make matters worse.

TAURUS 21 April-21 May A problem causing you sleepless nights can be resolved quite easily this week, but only if you view it from a radically different perspective. The old ways of doing things are clearly not working so use your imagination to find new ways to get the job done.

SCORPIO 24 Oct-22 Nov Try to limit the time you spend on work this week and focus on the things that make you happy. This should be one of the best times of the year socially, if only remotely. Don’t waste time bemoaning what you’re losing out on – there’s still fun to be had.

GEMINI 22 May-21 June Focus only on the good things in your life this week as if you start dwelling on the bad things you’ll sink into despair. If you don’t like what you see on an everyday level stand back and look at your life as a whole. Believe it or not you are doing okay.

SAGITTARIUS 23 Nov-21 Dec With the cosmic focus now on money, what happens next will delight or dismay you, depending on whether you gain or lose. It’s more likely to be the former if you let things develop at their own pace rather than try to push them along too fast.

Discover more about yourself at sallybrompton.com

Thank you to all our loyal and devoted readers, big and small, who have made it possible to say hooray for reading! Here's to many more years to come on Grigg Street, serving our community in the heart of downtown Greenwich. To those who are near to us and those who come to us from far away, we appreciate each and every one of you.

8 Grigg Street A, Greenwich, CT 06830 (203) 869-1515 • info@dianesbooks.com

WHAT TO WATCH: NICK'S FLICKS

The Midnight Sky

By Nick Barile Rated: PG-13 Starring: George Clooney, Felicity Jones, David Oyelowo Directed By: George Clooney Genre: Sci-Fi

Based in an artic outpost in the year 2 0 4 9, s p a c e e x p l o r e r and scientist Augustine Lofthouse (Clooney) is desperately trying to warn the spacecraft Aether and its crew, not to return to Earth. Earth has suffered a global climate apocalyptic catastrophe and everyone that su r v ived except Lofthouse, have boarded ships and are heading to a far away planet that appears to be habitable. Meanwhile Sully ( Jo n e s) a n d h e r c r e w aboard Aether are f lying blind in deep space an x iously attempting to contact Earth. Their angsts and homesickness

growing ever frustrating after 2 years in space Lofthouse is old, grumpy, often drunk and in need of daily dialysis, but when a mysterious little girl, seemingly left behind by mistake shows up, his paternal instincts slowly surface. With no luck reaching Aether f rom the base, Augustine and the girl take a perilous journey across the frozen, stormy tundra to reach a large radio transmitter station. Harassed by wolves, froze-bite cold and wind, Lof house must summon the courage to protect the girl and push on. With flashbacks of the aspiring scientist regretful decisions to put his work before love and family, we get a sense of why he volunteers to stay behind to warn the crew. In his 7th directorial effort, Clooney crafts a suspenseful, captivating mov ie f r om t he novel Good Morning Midnight, by Lily Brooks-Dalton. He succeeds in creating the loneliness of being the only person left on Earth and the longing of the space

travelers trying to get back home. A bit slow pace d at times but peppered with frightening action scenes both on terra-firma and in space, the film draws you in deep as the true heart of the story emerges.

Artfully designed sequence f ilming both on board the Aether and in the Artic, make this technically challenging movie a visual pleasure. I give The Midnight Sky 4 out of 5 on the popcorn scale

Page 15 | Greenwich Sentinel

Puzzles for the Weekend: Have Fun!

Code Breakers

Word Search

Each number in the Codeword grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this Greek Mythology - Find the 29 words listed below in this box of letters. Words are puzzle, 24 represents A, 22 represents M and 8 represents N, so fill in A wherever 24 horizontal, vertical, and diagonal backward and forward. Answer on page 11 appears, M wherever 22 appears and N wherever 8 appears. Now, using your knowledge of the English language, work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you discover the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and the control grid. Answer on page 11

US 13x13 Wordsear

23 26

Crossword 1

30 34

47 52

ACROSS 1 Maker whose cars go up and down 5 Unfortunately 9 Old Indian coin 13 Individualist 15 --- Marlene 16 Turns 17 Weighty 18 Thought transference 20 San ---, California 22 Correction 23 4th largest Great Lake 24 With regard to 25 Place 26 Contains Jets and Texans 28 Composure 30 Small cell 32 Paces 35 Common subjects in life classes 39 Zits 40 Delhi wraps?

42 S M S 43 Additional clause 45 Financial holdings 47 Doze 49 Calf meat 50 Tennis player's org. 51 Drop in value 54 Small pool lining slab 56 Burrow 58 Unworldliness 60 Storm 63 Truce 65 Ace golfer --Els 66 Amount 67 "Born Free" lioness 68 Lucifer 69 Was completely certain 70 Raised platform 71 Thanksgiving dish DOWN

Hector Hestia Ichor Io

G I M G C N I R A L E

Jason Leda Lethe Medea

A J A G M A I R P N A

E I E S I R E H C Y N

Oceanid Pallas Pegasus Priam

A P E G A S U S P E I

Psyche Sol Sphinx Styx

X Y T S C A R G U S D Titan

23 28

24 30

33 35

65 68 71

1 "Quantum of Solace" actress --Kurylenko 2 Ripped 3 Very soon 4 Cut 5 Either a male or a female voice 6 Recline 7 Filmmaker Woody --8 Jagged mountain range 9 Turkish rulers 10 Asleep 11 Long narrow jacket with a high collar 12 So far 14 Ancient artifacts 19 Song of praise 21 E.g. venison, beef, pork etc. 24 Better 26 A long way off 27 An ellipse has two 29 Spring 31 Not manual (Abbr.)

G W T R X C A T L T C

50 56

Gaia Ge Graces Harpy

M R J S O H I E L O O

22 36

49 55

Erato Eris Eros Gaea

E O A N E T T S A P S

Ares Argus Chaos Circe

D H S C E H C Y S P K

31 35

E C O L E D A E R O S

Anagram Crossword

21 23

A I N I U S O A H C N

33 Person between 12 and 20 34 Father 36 DominicanAmerican fashion designer Oscar --37 Way out 38 Cease 41 Not fresh 44 Assesses 46 Online attacks 48 Pockmarked 51 Nibble 52 Moses' brother 53 Easy putt 55 Bizet's priestess in "The Pearl Fishers" 57 Start of a divine appeal 59 Perspective 60 E.g. Oolong, Darjeeling 61 Now Thailand 62 Sawbucks 64 Long-running Ted Danson show

ACROSS

25 Pas

49 Roet

6 Yrrsaa

1 Sihf

28 Sti

50 Nian

7 Teiy

5 Yma

29 Dnief

51 Oma

8 Dia

8 Isfa

31 Araevl

52 Ogse

9 Airnlaks

12 Lkao

33 Oukocc

53 Tcsa

10 Spmeonoi

13 Rea

34 Ngrao

54 Wob

11 Satf

14 Mrai

35 Gba

55 Dosn

19 Nihtaic

15 Eedw

36 Cna

16 Trc

37 Cutd

DOWN

24 Cit

17 Pisd

38 Esei

1 Wlof

25 Olp

18 Cwarhnial

40 Moc

2 Ekai

26 Orandcis

21 Olt

41 Ellhahtli

3 Elws

27 Umgretna

22 Ehyt

46 Enwa

4 Tdanh

30 Cdo

23 Atse

48 Cba

5 Ecathem

32 Cav

20 Gfeeuer

Word Workouts Q) Downtrodden types, where paws are A) Mindbenders Q) If the top shape is folded to make a cube, which of the four cubes below will it make?

Page 16 | Greenwich Sentinel

Suduko

Sudoku: each row, column, and nonet can contain each number only once. Answers on page 11.

Easy

Very Hard

Hard

Very Hard

Page 17 | Greenwich Sentinel

Leisure Time

Our List of Great Reads for Your Best 2021

By Emma Barhydt Happy New Year! A nother year has come and gone, and with the ringing in of this bright new year, we often set ourselves up for failure from the get-go by biting off more than we can chew. So instead of going with the amorphous “I’ll go to the gym every day,” start with a book. Yes, start your new year’s resolutions off with a book- in fact, reading one book can be your new year's resolution! Here are a few of the Greenwich Sentinel’s favorite “self-help” books for your perusal. We chose not to include any classic or super well known books, but instead opted for a more fresh take. Enjoy these books, and the interesting discussions you can have with yourself all year long.

In this refreshingly entertaining how-to guide author Jen Sincero serves up 27 bitesize chapters f ull of hilariously inspiring stories, sage advice, easy exercises, and the occasional swear word, helping you to identify and change the self-sabotaging beliefs and behaviours that stop you from getting what you want: creating a life you totally love, and creating it now. By the end of You Are a Badass, you'll understand why you are how you are, how to love what you can't change, and how to change what you don't love.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F *c k : A C ou n te r i n t u it iv e Approach to Living a Good Life by Mark Manson Manson makes the argument, backed both by academic research and well-timed poop jokes, that improving our lives hinges not on our ability to turn lemons into lemonade, but on learning to stomach lemons better. Manson advises us to get to know our l i m itations a nd accept t hem. O nc e we e m brac e ou r fe a r s , faults, and uncertainties, once we stop running and avoiding and start confronting painful truths, we can begin to find the courage, perseverance, honesty, Grit: The Power of Passion responsibilit y, cur iosit y, a nd and Perseverance by A ngela forgiveness we seek. Duckworth The daughter of a scientist who frequently noted her lack of “genius,” Angela Duckworth is now a celebrated researcher and professor. It was her early eye-opening stints in teaching, business consulting, and neu rosc ience t hat le d to her hy pothesis about what really drives success: not genius, but a unique combination of passion and long-term perseverance. Among Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Grit’s most valuable insights: any effort you make ultimately Shame-Free Plan for Embracing counts twice toward your goal; and Achieving Your Goals by grit can be learned, regardless of Rachel Hollis I n Gi rl, Stop Apolog i zi ng, IQ or circumstances. Winningly personal, insightful, and even life- Rachel Hollis sounds a wakechanging, Grit is a book about what up call. She knows that many goes through your head when you wo m e n h ave b e e n t au g ht to fall down, and how that—not talent define themselves in light of other people—whether as wife, mother, or luck—makes all the difference. daughter, or employee—instead of learning how to own who they are and what they want. With a challenge to women everywhere to stop talking themselves out of their dreams, Hollis identifies the excuses to let go of, the behaviors to adopt, and the skills to acquire on the path to growth, confidence, and believing in yourself.

and philosophies throughout the centuries. For the first time, all the pieces of The Secret come together in an incredible revelation that will be life-transforming for all who experience it. In this book, you’ll learn how to use The Secret in every aspect of your life—money, health, relationships, happiness, a nd i n ever y i nterac tion you have in the world. You’ll begin to understand the hidden, untapped power that’s within you, and this revelation can bring joy to every aspect of your life.

12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan B. Peterson Humorous, surprising, and informative, Dr. Peterson tells us why skateboarding boys and girls must be left alone, what terrible fate awaits those who criticize too easily, and why you should always pet a cat when you meet one on the street. What does the nervous system of the lowly lobster have to tell us about standing up straight (with our shoulders back) and about success in life? Why did ancient Egyptians wor sh ip t he c ap a c it y to p ay careful attention as the highest of gods? What dreadful paths do people tread when they become resentful, arrogant and vengeful? Dr. Peterson journeys broadly, discussing discipline, freedom, adventure and responsibility, distilling the world's wisdom into 12 practical and profound rules for life. 12 Rules for Life shatters the modern commonplaces of science, faith and human nature, while transforming and ennobling the mind and spirit of its readers.

Big Magic: How to Live a Creative Life, and Let Go of Your Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert With profound empathy and radiant generosity, she of fers potent insights into the mysterious nature of inspiration. She asks us to embrace our curiosity and let go of needless suffering. She shows us how to tackle what we most love, and how to face down what we most fear. She discusses the attitudes, approaches, and habits we need in order to live our most creative lives. Whether we You Are a Badass: How to The Secret by Rhonda Byrne Stop Doubting Your Greatness Fragments of a Great Secret are looking to write a book, make and Start Living an Awesome h ave b e e n fou nd i n t he ora l art, f ind new ways to address Life by Jen Sincero traditions, in literature, in religions challenges in our work, embark on

2021 COOK BOOKS From Page 15

remarkable journey from California hometown teen prodigy to globe-trotting Chef-at-Large for international olive oil producer Cobram Estate. Anchored around the company’s olive harvests in both Northern and Southern Hemispheres, it reveals the trials and tribulations that led to his anointment, and the incredible produce, places and passions that continue to stoke the fires of his love for food. Part memoir and journal, part cookbook—all heart—it is a captivating and visually sumptuous meditation on oil and f lame as well as a searingly honest, gloriously unrefined account of a chef’s search for meaning, one plate of food at a time.

a dream long deferred, or simply Blink: The Power of infuse our everyday lives with Thinking Without Thinking by more mindfulness and passion, Malcom Gladwell Big Magic cracks open a world of Blink is a book about how we wonder and joy. think without thinking, about choices that seem to be made in an instant-in the blink of an eyethat actually aren't as simple as they seem. Why are some people brilliant decision makers, while others are consistently inept? Why do some people follow their instincts and win, while others end up stumbling into error? Blink reveals that great decision makers aren't those who process the most information or spend the most time deliberating, but those who have perfected the art of "thin-slicing"filtering the very few factors that matter from an overwhelming The Little Book of Hygge: number of variables. Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking Why are Danes the happiest people in the world? The answer, says Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, is Hygge. Loosely translated, Hygge―pronounced Hoo-ga―is a sense of comfort, togetherness, and well-being. "Hygge is about an atmosphere a n d a n e x p e r i e n c e ," W i k i n g explains. "It is about being with the people we love. A feeling of home. A feeling that we are safe." From picking the right lighting to Radically Happy: A User's organizing a Hygge get-together to Guide to the Mind by Phakchok dressing hygge, Wiking shows you Rinpoche how to experience more joy and East meets West in a fresh, contentment the Danish way. modern take on a timeless challenge: how to find contentment and meaning in life. A longtime meditator and seasoned Silicon Va l ley ent repreneu r me ets a young, insightful, and traditionally e duc ate d T i b et a n R i np o che . Together they present a path to radical happiness throug h accessible meditation and mindfulness techniques. Filled with personal stories, scientific studies, suggested daily plans, and step-by-step exercises, this is the perfect introduction to meditation a nd Budd h i st t houg ht . It's a thoughtful exploration of modern science and ancient wisdom-T h e Ha p p i n e s s P r o j e c t : there's no dumbing things downOr, Why I Spent a Year Trying -yet it doesn't ta ke itsel f too to Sing in the Morning, Clean seriously. My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun by Gretchen Rubin Gretchen Rubin had an epiphany one rainy afternoon in the unlikeliest of places: a city bus. "The days are long, but the years are short," she realized. "Time is passing, and I'm not focusing enough on the things that really matter." At that moment, she decided to dedicate a year to her happiness project. In this lively and compelling account, Rubin chronicles her adventures during the twelve months she spent testdriving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and Don't Keep Your Day Job: lessons from popular culture How to Turn Your Passion into about how to be happier. Your Career by Cathy Heller The pursuit of happiness is all about finding our purpose. We don't want to just go to work and build someone else’s dream, we want to do our life's work. But how do we find out what we’re supposed to contribute? Don’t Keep Your Day Job will get you fired up, ready to rip it open and use your zone of genius to add a little more sparkle to this world. You’ll learn essential steps like how to build your side hustle, how

for picking, freezing, and making staples like jam and pie.

Blueberry Love: 46 Sweet and Savory Recipes for Pies, Jams, Smoothies, Sauces, and More by Cynthia Graubart - to be released April 27, 2021.

Chasing Harvest by Kevin O’Connor” - to be released February 16, 2021.

Who among us has the courage to keep chasing our dreams, even when those dreams shatter into a million pieces? In Chasing Harvest, culinary wunderkind Kevin O’Connor charts his

Prized for their taste and nutrition, blueberries are a favorite for eating by the handful and as an ingredient in cook ing and bak ing. Blueberry Love celebrates this sweet-tart summer fruit with 46 recipes for enjoying blueberries, fresh or frozen. From breakfast treats (Blueberry Bread Pudding and Blueberry Granola) to salads (Blueberry, Watermelon, Feta, and Mint), from main courses (Skirt Steak with Blueberry Port Sauce) to desserts (Whoopie Pies with Blueberry Cream Filling), this book is brimming with classic and creative ways to put blueberries to use. It also includes tips

Maman: The Cookbook: All-Day Recipes to Warm Your Heart by Elisa Marshall and Benjamin Sormonte - to be released September 14, 2021. Welcome to Maman. Maman (“mother” in French) was created to fill a void that fiancés Elisa

to find your tribe, how to reach for what you truly deserve, and how to ultimately turn your passion into profit and build a life you love.

When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel H. Pink Everyone knows that timing is everything. But we don't know much about timing itself. Our lives are a never-ending stream of "when" decisions: when to start a business, schedule a class, get serious about a person. Yet we make those decisions based on intuition and guesswork. Timing, it's often assumed, is an art. In When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing, Pink shows that timing is really a science. How can we use the hidden patterns of t he day to bu i ld t he ide a l schedule? Why do certain breaks dramatically improve student test scores? How can we turn a stumbling beginning into a fresh start? Why should we avoid going to the hospital in the afternoon? Why is singing in time with other people as good for you as exercise? And what is the ideal time to quit a job, switch careers, or get married?

No Sweat: How the Simple Science of Motivation Can Bring You a Lifetime of Fitness by Michelle Segar Do you secretly hate exercising? Struggle to stick with a program? Millions of people try and fail to stay fit. But what if "exercising" is the real problem, not you? No Sweat translates years of research on exercise and motivation into a simple four-point program that will empower you to break the cycle of exercise failure once and for all. You'll discover why you shou ld forget a bout willpower and stop gritting your teeth through workouts you hate. Instead, you'll become motivated from the inside out and start to crave physical activity. You'll be hooked! Practical, proven, and loaded with inspiring stories, No Sweat makes getting fit easier-and more fun--than you ever imagined. Get ready to embrace an active lifestyle that you'll love.

Marshall and Benjamin Sormonte saw in the café scene--a beautiful, homey place where you could savor a delicious, freshly baked cookie or quiche and gather with friends for a lively brunch as if in your own living room. In their debut cookbook, the owners of this elegant and charming New York Citybased collection of cafés share the recipes of some of their bestselling baked goods and dishes alongside brand-new ones. This collection of 100 recipes spans breakfast to dessert and everything in between, all united by the sense of family-inspired tradition. Handed down through generations, this is the food that makes you feel at home.

Page 18 | Greenwich Sentinel

Over 1,000 Transcations – One Amazing Year sellers wanted to avoid the Gold Coast tax; the 1% increase in the state conveyance tax for sales over $2.5 million that kicked in on July 1st. What was surprising was the continuing increase in high-

up 12.4% in 2020 In 2020, our average sales price was $2.67 million up 12.4% from our 2019 average sales price of $2.38 million. The median sales price was $2.08 million up 11.4%

russellpruner.com.) Now, as I constantly write, most of the change in both the average and the median sales price is not due to a general appreciation of all houses, but a change in the

By Mark Pruner remarkable year, our 4th quarter was head and shoulders above the prior quarters for percent increase, which bodes well for the f irst quarter of 2021. Quarterly Sales Numbers While the first quarter was better than 2019, it was much like our 10-year average. In the second quarter, when Covid had its greatest negative impact, April was slow as we went into lockdown followed by a better May and June as we saw the beginning of an exodus of families from New York City. Our second quarter while better than the poor Q2 2019 was still a little below our 10-year Q2 average. Then came the third quarter and sales took off. July was better than average and August and September were our highest months of the year. What was amazing about the 4th quarter was that sales just stayed high. Normally the 4th quarter has about 21% of our sales as things slow down for the holidays; that’s not what happened in 2020. We got 3 consecutive months of sales numbers in the 90’s. The 4th quarter of 2020 represented 35% of sales. The 4th quarter sales numbers were 282 house sales, up 166 houses from 2019 or 143%, and up 147 sales from our 10-year average. High-End Sales in 2020 We saw a big jump in the average sales price from $2.14 million in the 1st quarter to $2.85 million in the 4th quarter or a 33% price increase. This price increase was driven by the increase in the high-end sales in Greenwich that started in June. The June increase was expected as many

end thereafter. While these highend sales increase are certainly encouraged by Cov id; it also seems to be tied to higher levels of violence and shootings in New York City. Average Greenwich sales price

from 2019’s $1.87 million median. Our average sales price peaked at $2.97 million in 2007. We still have a way to go get back to our 2007 peak, but we are getting there with double digit appreciation. (BTW: All this historical data is from my brother Russ, who has a great website with historical data at

mix of what is selling. If you double the number of sales over $3 million you will get a big jump in our median and average sales price. A better way to get a feel of how your house value is doing is to look at the changes in the sales price/s.f. and the sales price to the

assessment ratio. Our sales price per square foot is up 4.1% over 2019. Our sales price to the tax assessor’s assessment is up 3.1% over last year’s SP/Assmt ratio. So, by this measure, house values are up 3 – 4% in Greenwich for 2020, but if you are talking to someone from Darien you can let them know our average price is up 12.4%. Inventory and Months of Supply Way Down The one stat that probably should get more attention right now is inventory, because it is at record lows. Our 287 house listings are down 145 listings from last year or a drop of 34%. For the last several months our inventory has been down about 25% from last year, but it held steady at that level, meaning that new listings were coming on about as fast as they were going off. I n D e c e m b e r, a s u s u a l l y happens during the holidays, new listings slowed down, while sales stayed high with 91 sales compared to a 10-year average of 54 December sales. The result was both inventory and contracts sh ra n k . At t he b e g i n n i ng of December, we had 378 listings and 171 contracts, by January 1st we were down to 287 listings and 142 contracts. The drop in inventory was not solely due to sales, we had 17 listings expire unsold at year end on December 31st. Regardless of the cause, 287 home listings is a historic low for inventory. If you compare the months of supply at the beginning of 2020 with months of supply at the beginning of 2021, the difference is startling. Last year from $4 – 5 million we had 26 months of supply. This year we have 3.7 months of supply. That dramatic drop is true across all price ranges. For the entire market we went from 9.8 months of supply at the beginning of 2020 to only 4.0 months supply at the beginning of 2021. We Need a Lot More Inventory I was hoping that a lot of sellers were waiting for the new year to put their house on the market, but that is not what we are seeing so far. In the first few days of 2021 we

have seen only a handful of new listings. This lack of inventory is the biggest present threat to 2021 being a good sales year. If you are thinking of selling yo u r h o u s e c a l l m e o r t a k e advantage of the fact that everyone in Greenwich has zero degrees of separation from a Realtor. With over 1,100 dues paying GMLS members, you probably have a neighbor, a tennis buddy, a club member, a carpool friend or a fellow school parent that is an agent. Call me, call them, please do it this weekend. The ideal time to put a listing on the market is when supply is low, and demand is high. This is exactly what we have now. What Will Happen to Greenwich Real Estate in 2021? How will this year play out? The one thing you can be sure of is that no one knows. Covid cases are reaching record highs across the U.S., but Connecticut has been one of the most successfully states in getting people vaccinated. We have a hot market, but low inventory. It is a great time to list your property, but January is not known for a lot of listings. In 2020 we had lots of people who had been waiting for years to list their properties for sale, do we still have that number of people or has our shadow inventory mostly disappeared? Prices in New York City are dropping, and people are getting the vaccines, will the NYC real estate market return to normal? Federal relief bills are authorizing record amounts to stimulate the economy, leading to record amounts of debt, what happens when interest rates tick up? I could go on and on with countervailing factors, but there is no way of knowing which factor will outweigh their countervailing factor. Stay tuned, it’s going to be a really interesting first quarter.

Mark Pruner can be reached at 203-969-7900 or mark@bhhsne. com

THE HOLEY DANIELSEN TEAM New Listing | 112 Shore Road | 1 1 2 SH O RE ROA D.CO M | Offered at $2,500,000

This historic home in Old Greenwich was built in 1843 as a nine acre farmhouse for Capt. John Ferris, one of the members of the family that founded Old Greenwich in 1656. It’s now a fully renovated and expanded 4 bedroom/4.5 bath, 4,400 square feet home on a deep and level .43 acre, oversized lot. Easy walk/bike ride to Tod’s point and the beach.

Susan Holey 203.969.4320 Pete Danielsen 203.231.7784 holeydanielsenteam.com GREENWICH BROKERAGE | ONE PICKWICK PLAZA | 203.869.4343 | SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM © Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark. Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Real estate agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Page 19 | Greenwich Sentinel

LEADERS IN LOCAL LENDING

SERVING WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES

WE OFFER ALL THE SERVICES OF THE BIG BANKS BUT DO IT BETTER

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www.greenwichfirst.com | NMLS#510513

REAL ESTATE DASHBOARD

A new level of commitment, and honesty in Real Estate.

GLORIA FALCON

CESAR RABELLINO

203.559.1604 GloriaFalcon@bhhsne.com

FEATURED OPEN HOUSES

203.249.9866 CesarRabellino@bhhsne.com

Data Compiled by Rob Pulitano [203] 561-8092

Greenwich 136 East Putnam Avenue | bhhsNEproperties.com

Address

NEW SALES

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

Original List

List Price

Sold Price DOM BR FB Acres

34 Putnam Park 54 Nicholas Avenue 20 Church Street A10 100 Greenwich Hills Drive 6 Wellington Place 31 Summit Road 33 Thornhill Road 15 Le Grande Avenue 2 51 Forest Avenue 52 172 Field Point Road 9 49 William Street A 8 Banksville Road 24 Midbrook Lane 9 Fairfield Avenue 5 Terrace Avenue 56 Byram Shore Road 38 Split Timber Place 22 Mallard Drive 72 Riverside Lane 21 Roosevelt Avenue 16 Pierce Road 65 Bote Road 169 Elm Street 199 Palmer Hill Road

$415,000 $649,000 $725,000 $699,000 $699,000 $850,000 $750,000 $715,000 $745,000 $949,000 $1,025,000 $995,000 $1,195,000 $1,395,000 $1,285,000 $1,295,000 $1,595,000 $1,675,000 $2,100,000 $1,995,000 $1,995,000 $2,295,000 $2,200,000 $2,195,000

$415,000 $529,000 $725,000 $699,000 $699,000 $750,000 $740,000 $725,000 $745,000 $949,000 $945,000 $995,000 $1,149,000 $1,295,000 $1,285,000 $1,295,000 $1,395,000 $1,675,000 $1,995,000 $1,895,000 $1,995,000 $2,295,000 $2,200,000 $2,195,000

$415,000 $500,000 $650,000 $700,000 $710,000 $712,500 $730,000 $730,000 $745,000 $939,500 $944,000 $1,050,000 $1,149,000 $1,170,000 $1,285,000 $1,310,000 $1,335,000 $1,625,000 $1,850,000 $1,875,000 $1,985,000 $2,000,000 $2,025,000 $2,100,000

53 312 82 78 40 162 167 46 104 57 26 24 146 83 7 171 72 40 156 72 15 84 747 35

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

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

0.17 0 0.12 0.3 0.17 0 0 0 0.79 0.3 0.12 0.26 0.71 0.31 0.29 0.29 0.17 0.3 0.28 0.2 1.55

SqFt

54 Orchard Drive, Greenwich | $4,750,000 Beds 5 | Baths 5.1 | Square Feet 7,055 | Acres .43

suite double bedrooms, office and family room on second floor. Finished lower level with 5th bedroom and bath, laundry, exercise and playroom. Front to back foyer, mudroom and backstairs. Generator. Exceptionally beautiful home close to shopping, dining, schools in a private association with security guard. Rare opportunity! Offered by: BK Bates | 203-536-4997 bkbates@houlihanlawrence.com

1465 E Putnam Ave. #513 Old Greenwich 102 Valley Road #19 Cos Cob 98 Valley Road #2 Cos Cob 40 Mitchell Place Greenwich 16 Windy Knolls #A Greenwich 19 Richmond Drive Old Greenwich 168 Bedford Road Greenwich 29 Weston Hill Road Riverside 26 Chapel Lane Riverside 17 Heronvue Road Greenwich 18 Lower Cross Road Greenwich 18 Lower Cross Road Greenwich

Price

Day/Time

$390,000 Sun 1-3 PM $541,900 Sun 1-3 PM $549,000 Sun 1-3 PM $825,900 Sun 12:30-3 PM $849,000 Sun 1-3 PM $1,195,000 Sun 1-3 PM $1,749,000 Sun 12-3 PM $2,595,000 Sun 2:30-4 PM $2,695,000 Sun 1-3 PM $2,750,000 Sat 12-2 PM $6,995,000 Sat 11-2 PM $6,995,000 Sun 11-2 PM

1,634 1,809 1,791 1,940 1,386 1,211 1,246 1,952 2,516 Data Compiled by Cesar Rabellino (203) 249-9866 3,024 Address List Price Price/SqFt SqFt AC BR FB 1,684 118 Putnam Park $459,000 1 3.1 1 1,626 20 Church Street B20 $699,000 3 2 $428 1,634 0 17 Maple Drive $749,900 $880 852 0.15 2 1 2,270 18 Rippowam Road 2B $849,000 $521 1,630 0 3 2 2,991 41 Mianus View Terrace $849,000 $387 2,194 0.28 3 3 2,044 51 Forest Avenue 63 $875,000 $536 1,633 0 2 2 3,103 5 Relay Court $955,000 $450 2,122 0.09 4 2 3,500 41 Sundance Drive $1,129,000 $432 2,613 0.3 4 3 5 Georgetowne North $1,325,000 $431 3,072 3 1 0 3,425 19 Peters Road $1,450,000 $479 3,030 0.61 4 3 3,812 9 Ferris Drive $1,495,000 $711 2,102 0.18 4 3 3,243 25 MacArthur Drive $1,750,000 $515 3,400 0.17 4 3 4,358 77 Taconic Road $1,995,000 $550 3,630 4.2 5 3 15 Serenity Lane $2,200,000 $688 3,200 1.03 4 3 5,437

54 Orchard Drive

MILBROOK ASSOCIATION - close to Greenwich Avenue and train - Stunning custom home on oversized private gorgeous level property allows for amazing indoor/outdoor living. High ceilings and spacious rooms filled with sunlight. Stunning living room and dining room, Entertainment Bar and large gourmet kitchen with family room open to expansive terrace with built in grill and covered arbor. All rooms overlook the beautiful gardens and lush lawn. Possible pool site on oversized lot of .43 acres. Exquisite master suite, three lovely en

Area

Broker

Keller Williams Keller Williams Coldwell Banker Realty Brown Harris Stevens Keller Williams Sotheby's Sotheby's Sotheby's Brown Harris Stevens Sotheby's Berkshire Hathaway Berkshire Hathaway

NEW LISTINGS

Area

South of Post Road South Parkway Old Greenwich Cos Cob Cos Cob Old Greenwich Cos Cob Cos Cob South Parkway Riverside Old Greenwich Old Greenwich North Parkway North Mianus

112 Shore Road 112 Shore Road, Old Greenwich | $2,500,000 4 bedrooms | 4 baths | 4,412 square feet

This historic home in Old Greenwich was built in 1843 as a nine-acre farmhouse for Capt. John Ferris - one of the members of the family that founded Old Greenwich in 1656. It's now a fully renovated and expanded 4 bedroom/4.5 bath, 4400 square feet home on a deep and level .43 acre, oversized lot. Custom chef's kitchen adjacent to large sun-filled open family room with high ceilings and French doors to the terrace and backyard. First floor separate office with powder room. There's also a full basement and the large open third floor currently

serves as a playroom. The home is in the ''X'' zone and significant expansion is possible. Easy walk/ bike ride to Tod's point and the beach. www.112shoreroad.com Offered by: Susan Holey Mobile: (203) 969-4320 | Office: (203) 869-4343 Pete Danielsen Mobile: (203) 231-7784 | Office: (203) 869-4343