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Thursday, October 15, 2009

10/15/09 READER SUBMITTED COMMENTS: A Quick Note...

PRESS RELEASE:

A Quick Note...

October 15, 2009 From Jessica Bram

Announcements

Hello,.

I’m very excited to announce my brand new blog. It has a new name and has been completely redesigned. I invite you to check it out by visiting http://jessicabram.cmail2.com/t/y/l/ulilf/kyhklhqu/y The blog will no longer be exclusively focused on my book, Happily Ever After Divorce: Notes of a Joyful Journey.

Certainly, I’ll still be thinking and writing about how to maintain a sense of self and humor during difficult times, and emerge triumphantly, as I did after my divorce. But there are too many other fascinating things in life to to write about as well. Like the new development happening in my Connecticut town and how it’s changing it (for better or worse); my feelings about my youngest son going to college; my son’s struggle with his first year of teaching in a NYC public school and, of course, politics.

Like my radio commentaries, my blog posts will reflect on how large, global issues – things like far-away wars, recession, technology changing at breathtaking speeds – hit home in my own private world – which is the world that you and I share.

Speaking of technology, I I’ve also joined Twitter! I’ve enlisted a young, with-it marketing company to bring me into the 21st century as a way of getting the word out about my book. Please check out my profile, and follow me if you’re Twitter-savvy yourself. I look forward to your tweets!

Lastly, I wanted to remind you of my recently released book, Happily Ever After Divorce: Notes of a Joyful Journey (Health Communications, Inc. 2009). The book gives a seldom touched-on view of divorce – a positive view of life on the other side. So many readers have written me that “your book was just the lift I needed” or “your book was such a comfort to me,” that I now feel more motivated than ever to get this message of hope out to people who face the rebuilding of their lives. I know that Happily Ever After Divorce: Notes of a Joyful Journey can assure readers that they can – and will – emerge into the sunlight after any difficult time.

I invite you to check out the book's website if you haven’t already done so. Read excerpts or order your copy today by visiting http://jessicabram.cmail2.com/t/y/l/ulilf/kyhklhqu/o It goes without saying that I would appreciate your personal insights and comments on the book, as your opinion is valuable to me.

I’d also love to hear what you've been up to—please do send an e-mail to jessica@jbram.com when you get a chance.

Warmest regards,
Jessica

My Twitter: twitter.com/Jessica_Bram
My Blog: jessicabram.wordpress.com
My Website: http://jessicabram.cmail2.com/t/y/l/ulilf/kyhklhqu/p

10/15/09 MEDIA ALERT: Fairfield County AHA Start! Heart Walk THIS SUNDAY highlights need for heart health awareness in community

Good morning:

I’m reaching out on behalf of Nestle Waters' Poland Spring water in Fairfield County, a local organization that continues to support healthy lifestyles within the community. THIS Sunday, October 18 at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, Poland Spring and the American Heart Association are joining forces to get residents up and on their feet, promoting walking as part of a healthy lifestyle and to raise funds to support cardiovascular research and educational programs for the Fairfield County community.

In addition, Poland Spring will be serving as an Eat Street Sponsor at the Poland Spring Start! Heart Walk and will be handing out free samples of Poland Spring water as well as providing tips on hydration as part of a healthy lifestyle.

If interested, I would be able to provide:

o Action photos from the walk event on Sunday (we will be sending an AP photographer)

o Interview with an Poland Spring executive from the Fairfield County area on how water can help promote heart health and what Poland Spring is doing to promote healthy living in the community

I’ve included full release details, please let me know if you are interested or if there is a more appropriate person to reach out to.

Thanks so much!

Best,

Katie

POLAND SPRING® Brand NATURAL SPRING WATER TEAMS UP WITH
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION FOR FAIRFIELD COUNTY START! Heart Walk OCTOBER 18

Launch of Poland Spring’s Local Support of the “Start!” Program, AHA’s Premier Fundraising Initiative

Fairfield County, CT (October 15, 2009) – Poland Spring® Brand Natural Spring Water is proud to be a supporter of the American Heart Association Start! initiative in Fairfield County on Sunday, October 18, focused on promoting heart health and encouraging healthy habits. The Fairfield County Start! Heart Walk is one of nearly 400 Start! Heart Walks, AHA’s premier fundraising event, taking place this year across the nation.

Poland Spring, together with five other Nestlé Waters North America Regional Spring Water Brands, has made a $500,000 donation to the American Heart Association. As a participating “Eat Street” food sponsor, Fairfield County walkers will be offered .5 liter chilled bottles of Poland Spring Natural Spring Water, as part of the company’s commitment to inspiring people to be healthier by being more physically active through walking and choosing water as a smart, calorie-free beverage. In addition, Poland Spring will be providing recycling bins throughout the walking course.

“We are proud to support the efforts of the American Heart Association’s Start! initiative,” said Angela Barile, Group Marketing Manager, regional spring water brands. “Their walking events promote healthier beverage decisions and educate people on how drinking water and engaging in regular physical activity are essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” she added.

The American Heart Association and Poland Spring Natural Spring Water are partnering to support Fairfield County’s Start! Heart Walk on Sunday, October 18 at Sherwood Island State Park, Sherwood Island State Park, 1 Sherwood Island Connector, Westport, CT, beginning at 9 a.m. The event provides a three-mile non-competitive walking route where local participants can walk to raise money to fight heart disease and stroke, as well as educational information on walking and staying hydrated as a part of a healthy lifestyle.

“The American Heart Association understands that Nestlé Waters is committed to providing healthful, calorie-free beverage options,” said Robert Grabel, Regional Director, Fairfield County Start Heart Walk, American Heart Association. “When considering supporters that would embrace the fundamentals of the Start! initiative, Nestlé Waters seemed the ideal choice since they recognize the small steps Americans can take in their daily lives, like being active and drinking water, which can lead to fulfilling results.”

According to recent studies, drinking water over sugared beverages can reduce your caloric intake which can help you lose weight as part of a healthy lifestyle.1

To learn more about getting involved, visit www.polandspring.com.

About the American Heart Association

Founded in 1924, the American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of heart disease and stroke. These diseases, America's No. 1 and No. 3 killers, and all other cardiovascular diseases claim nearly 870,000 lives a year. In fiscal year 2007-2008, the association invested nearly $560 million in research, professional and public education, and advocacy and community service programs to help all Americans live longer, healthier lives. To learn more, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit www.americanheart.org.

About Start!!

Start! is the American Heart Association's groundbreaking national campaign that calls on all Americans to commit to fighting the major causes of heart disease and stroke in adults through a comprehensive walking and nutrition program. START! is recognizing employers who champion the health of their employees and work to create a culture of physical activity and health in the workplace.

About Nestlé Waters North America

Central to the leadership of Nestlé Waters North America Inc. is its 33-year experience and single-focus on producing bottled water products. The company’s dedication to product quality, manufacturing expertise, employee development and environmental stewardship, especially in the areas of water use, energy and packaging, has led Nestlé Waters to the number one bottled water position in the U.S. Simply said, to reach success the company follows its credo: Respect for each other, respect for the environment and respect for the community.



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10/15/09 PRESS RELEASE: Halloween Happenings

The Department of Parks and Recreation announces that tickets for the 27th Annual Halloween

Happenings is on sale. This family event takes place at the Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center at 449 Pemberwick Road on Friday, October 23 from 6 – 8pm. Children will play games in Dracula’s Den from 6 – 7pm where they are guaranteed to win prizes and candy.

As in the past Rick Rock the ever popular DJ will be on hand to lead families through the limbo, mummy, and other dances.

Pepsi, a sponsor of this event will provide Trick or Treat bags for the children and refreshments for all.

Storm the mascot from the Bridgeport Storm Tigers hockey team will also be on hand to meet all the children. Everyone is welcomed to come in costume and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets are $11.00 for this event and may be purchased at the Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center or at the Parks and Recreation Office at Town Hall, 2nd floor or through the mail. Tickets are limited and will not be sold at the door. For a registration form please visit our website at greenwichct.org. and click on check out Parks and Recreation.


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10/15/09 The Himes Times: Our first responders

Himes Stamford Firefighters

October 15, 2009

Dear Friends,

No, this is not me emerging from a Health Care Town Hall. In fact, I've just stepped out of a shipping container full of raging fire with an air temperature of 1000 degrees. I had the good fortune to join Stamford firefighters this weekend for Fire Ops 101, a program in which they demonstrate their capabilities, and give civilians a chance to see what firefighting is all about. I simply can't describe the feeling of being in superheated close smoky darkness with tongues of flame "flashbacking" over your head. It gave me an up close and personal appreciation for the incredible work our first responders do, and the risks they take as a matter of course. It made me recommit myself to the work I do on the Committee on Homeland Security.National Preparedness Month ended two weeks ago, but hopefully preparedness is something you think about on a regular basis. If you have not already visited http://www.ready.gov/, I hope you will. It's got good basic information on how to prepare for most emergencies and has a section of advice on the flu. I hope you'll take a moment to have a look. And the next time you walk by a policeman, fireman or medic, I hope you'll thank them for what they are prepared to do for you!

All the best,

Jim

P.S. Follow me on Twitter to get the most up-to-date information directly from me! Just click here: jahimes

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10/15/09 Dr. Sarah Mildred Gamble was sworn in as the Greenwich police physician

Dr. Sarah Gamble will advise the Greenwich Police Department on health-related issues.

Greenwich Police Chief David Ridberg stated that swearing in Dr. Gamble was part of his initiative to restart the physician program in Greenwich.

Ridberg wants Dr. Gamble to also be an advocate for injured Greenwich police officers.

The new Greenwich police physician specializes in internal medicine at Stamford Hospital.

Dr. Gamble who uses her maiden name is married to a Greenwich Police Department patrol officer.

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10/15/09 Tax Collector Wann be Fails To File Financial Disclosure Form

Failure to File and a Delinquent Report


Rick Novakowski, who lost the Democratic primary and is continuing the tax collector race race as a petition candidate, did not file his financial disclosure report that was due last Tuesday.

Sources say Rick Novakowski is rushing to file his disclosure form before the town clerk closes business today.


Local media reports say that as of yesterday, Novakowski "was not able to estimate how much cash on hand remains for his campaign"


The Greenwich Democratic party nominee Bill Grad's financial disclosure form showed that supporters contributed $7,625 during the third quarter to go with $5,166 that they raised for his primary win over Rick Novakowski.

Greenwich Republican Tod Laudonia, was able to raise an eye popping $310.


It appears that Mr. Laudonia is not getting much grassroot support in Greenwich.

Comment On This Story At The Greenwich Topix Forum

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Wednesday, October 14, 2009

10/15/09 Reader Submitted Comments: Historic District Commission

Wow! What a surprise the P & Z and the Historic Commission are working together.

After the stealth attack on Sachem Road to make it a historic district.

It does not surprise me at all.


Hal & Kate Rubenstein



PLEASE SEE:

10/13/09 HDC Is Stealing ARC's Cookies With P&Z's Blessing?

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10/14/09 The Raw Greenwich News Feed: Evening Edition

Greenwich High class of '79 reunites this weekend
Greenwich Post
The Greenwich High School 30th reunion for the class of 1979 is Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Boys and Girls Club in Greenwich from 7 to 11 pm Dress is casual, ...

Westport County Playhouse Free Events on "Community Day," October ...
By admin
Once again, I direct your attention to a venue beyond the Greenwich border; this time to the fantastically worthy Westport County Playhouse. With a Board of.
Greenwich On The Cheap - http://www.greenwichonthecheap.com/

Slideshow Dahl Matonis set new Greenwich High cross country marks ...
When the representatives of the Greenwich Darien Wilton and Norwalk boys and girls cross country teams took to the starting line at Greenwich Point Park ...



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10/14/09 The Raw Greenwich News Feed: Afternoon Edition

Greenwich selectmen candidates go back to school
Greenwich Time
By Neil Vigdor Greenwich, Oct. 13, 2009. First Selectman Peter Tesei speaking at Greenwich High School to the high school juniors and seniors his reasons ...
Convicted Greenwich sex offender found guilty of new felony offense
Greenwich Time
By Debra Friedman STAMFORD -- After three days of trial, a Greenwich sex offender was convicted Tuesday of failing to properly register his address, ...
Ridgefield holds off Greenwich, 4-3, in girls soccer
Greenwich Time
By David Fierro Ridgefield High School girls soccer coach Robb Banyai certainly wouldn't mind if his team didn't have to play Greenwich again. ...
HS Roundup -- Pearsall scores twice as girls soccer team wins again
Wilton Villager
Celeste Hoelzl took first overall in 16:49 and teammate Julia Broach was second in 16:51 to lead Wilton to victories over Darien, 15-50, Greenwich, 18-45, ...
New York Times
Op-Ed Contributor Wall Street Smarts
New York Times
They just wanted a nice house in Greenwich and maybe a sailboat. A lot of them were from families that had always been on Wall Street, ...

Macri, O'Hara lead Norwalk girls to win against Bridgeport Central ...
By Staff
Celeste Hoelzl took first overall in 16:49 and teammate Julia Broach was second in 16:51 to lead Wilton to victories over Darien, 15-50, Greenwich, 18-45, and Norwalk, 15-50, in action on Greenwich's 4000-meter course. ...
The Hour Headlines - http://www.thehour.com/



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10/13/09 HDC Is Stealing ARC's Cookies With P&Z's Blessing?

The Greenwich Monitor says:

It appears that the The Historic District Commission (HDC) is on a stealth mission to reduce the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) to near irrelevance.

The ARC composed of architects has been reduced to the mere approval of signs, lighting and air conditioners on Greenwich Avenue.

The HDC is subtlety trying to move Greenwich Avenue from being merely registered on the National Registry to a full blown Historic District

The HDC's standard of approval is to replicate the Avenue of old.

The ARC feels that the Avenue is a living organism of continual change.

The ARC uses their innate skill as professionals to control the scale, mass and style of the Avenue so that it can change, yielding place to new, while preserving the ambiance of the Avenue.

The HDC is trying to roll back the fenestration's to some unknown historical period, not clear to the land owner or their architects.

Arbitrary and capricious is HDC's mystery to approval.

The HDC, comprised of armature historians and a few architects, would replace their gut feelings for the practiced skill of the more illustrious professionals of the ARC.

Whose in charge?
The Greenwich Monitor's solution will be offered after the people of Greenwich have made comments.
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10/13/09 The Greenwich Police Blotter

Police blotter

Leslie Bechtel, 54, of 87 Lockwood Drive, was charged Thursday morning with third-degree assault against an elderly person. Released on a $5,000 bond.

Ryan Ramsey, 23, of 18 Havemeyer Lane, was charged Thursday morning with driving while under the influence. Released on a $250 bond......

.....A 17-year-old boy was charged Friday with possession of cannabis, sale of cannabis, sale of cannabis within school housing, possession of drug paraphernalia and risk of injury to a minor. He was released on a $5,000 bond.......

......Thomas Bowers, 45, of 77 John St., was charged Sunday afternoon with second-degree failure to appear. He was released on a $300 bond.

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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

10/13/09 The Raw Greenwich News Feed: Afternoon Edition

Late goal lifts Pomperaug over Greenwich in field hockey battle
Greenwich Time
Walker banged home the only goal of the game off a crisp crossing pass from Abby Dwyer in the second half as Pomperaug defeated Greenwich 1-0 in an ...
The new gold rush in Greenwich
Connecticut Post
Thomas said his company started coming to Greenwich once a month, then twice a month, to keep up with demand, which he attributed to the recession coupled ...
Local Scouts go the distance to mark trails at Greenwich Point
Greenwich Time
Two local Scouts are blazing a trail at Greenwich Point. Greenwich High School seniors Gina Capoccia and Christian Thalheim recently got permission from the ...

Greenwich boaters get no respect - Lincoln's Log - Connecticut News
By Lincoln Millstein
Lincoln Millstein offers his unique views and insight on Greenwich and its community.
Lincoln's Log - http://blog.ctnews.com/lincolnmillstein/



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10/13/09 Greenwich BOE Press Release: Marine Bio Club Event

Hi all,
See attached for information on Greenwich High School Marine Biology
Club's Beach Clean Up Day, and more!

What: Beach Clean Up
Who: GHS Marine Biology Club
When: Saturday, October 17, 2009, 11am
Where: Greenwich Point (Tod's Point)


For More Information, Contact:
Jenna Carlson
Marine Biology Teacher

Greenwich High School
10 Hillside Road
Greenwich, CT 06830

E-mail: jenna_carlson@greenwich.k12.ct.us
Phone: 203.625.8000 ext 8203


Marine Biology Club Beach Clean-up
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009
Location: Greenwich Point (Tod’s Point)
Time: 11 am


The Marine Biology Club at Greenwich High School is a club that consists of 9-12 grade students. The club this year has multiple activities planned. The club will be planning beach clean-ups, a trip to the Maritime Aquarium, and researching more about marine environments and animals. Also this year the club will be competing in the Quahog Bowl. The Quahog Bowl is the Connecticut and Rhode Island event for the National Ocean Sciences Bowl. It is an academic competition for high schools on topics related to the study of the oceans. These are just a few of the many activities planned.

The Beach Cleanup is the first large event for the Marine Biology Club this school year. It was completely organized by students in the marine biology club as a clean-up of the marine environment and a community service event. The marine biology club advertized in all marine biology classes for students to join the event and also made a poster for the Student Center. All Greenwich High School students who volunteer their time will be joining together to clean-up Tod's Point on Saturday. The group will meet near the second concession stand (near the sandy beach) at 11:00 am.

If you have any additional questions please feel free to contact Jenna Carlson at
jenna_carlson@greenwich.k12.ct.us

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10/13/09 Reader Submitted Comments: H1N1 vaccine

Why is this vaccine not available in Greenwich yet?

Comment:
With all the media hype about people dying from the H1N1 virus, you'd think that all of Greenwich would have been vaccinated by now.
H1N1 is on the news every single day and in all the papers but still no vaccines.
Has one person or child in Greenwich been vaccinated.
What's going on?
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Monday, October 12, 2009

10/12/09 Greenwich High School 30th reunion

Hello Greenwich Roundup,
We are trying to get the word out to the Greenwich High School class of 1979 that our 30th reunion is Saturday, Oct. 17 at the Boys and Girls Club in Greenwich. Could you please post the following?
Thank you.

The Greenwich High School 30th reunion for the class of 1979 is Saturday Oct. 17th at the Boys and Girls Club in Greenwich from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Dress is casual, and dinner (a buffet of assorted hot and cold food), beer and wine will be served. $75 can be sent to the reunion chairwoman, Tucker Baldwin Murphy at 130 Gerrish Lane, New Canaan, CT 06840. Also the clambake area at Tod's Point has been reserved from 12-4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17th for a picnic. For an invitation, please e-mail this address: ghsclassof79@aol.com.
Randy Caravella can answer any other questions at (203) 661-0292
The Facebook page for the reunion site is http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=36928695558.
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10/12/09 Editor And Publisher Notes That Greenwich Rookie Reporter Colin Gustafson And Debra Friedman Scored A Scoop With GPD Documents

Hearst Connecticut Newspapers Score Scoop on Lying Family

GREENWICH, Conn. Police in Connecticut say a family fabricated a story claiming that it rescued three immigrant relatives from a kidnapper when a fight broke out.

The story became known after the melee involving nearly 20 people in a Greenwich shopping center parking lot Aug. 2. Police said then that it involved human smuggling.

The family members, who live 90 miles away in Willimantic, told authorities their relatives were kidnapped in Texas, and they went to pay ransom for them.But police documents obtained by Hearst Connecticut Newspapers show authorities later learned the fight erupted after a driver asked the family for an extra $60 per person to bring the three illegal immigrants to Willimantic.

The immigrants and the driver have been deported to Mexico and Guatemala.

Source: Editor And Publisher

COMMENT:
Greenwich Rookie Reporter Colin Gustafson Byline was origionally on this story.
But it looks like Greenwich Time Editor David McCumber pulled Rookie Cub Reporter Colin Gustafson off of the story and replaced him with staff reporter Debra Friedman.
If you look at the story you will see that Debra Friedman has the byline and the story has a foot note that reads....
"Staff Writer Colin Gustafson contributed to this report."
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10/12/09 The Raw Greenwich News Feed: Afternoon Edition

Conn. police: Kidnapping-ransom story was a lie
The Associated Press
GREENWICH, Conn. — A Connecticut family made up claims that it rescued three immigrant relatives from a kidnapper by showing up with baseball bats at a ...
US Women's Eight rowing world title winners honor Greenwich sports medicine ...
Connectcut Plus
Dr. Hannafin practices at Hospital for Special Surgery's Affiliate Physician Office located at 143 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich, Conn. ...
Fear persists in currency options market
Reuters
... going to be priced into the market," said Andrew Wilkinson, senior market analyst at options market maker Interactive Brokers in Greenwich, Connecticut. ...



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10/12/09 Debra Friedman Takes Over Susie's Non-News Beat

STOP THE PRESSES !!!

Greenwich Time Reporter Debra Friedman Takes A Picture Of Jerry Springer's Rear End

Jerry Springer Sighting at Starbucks
by Debra Friedman


The King of trashy daytime television, Jerry Springer, took a break from filming Monday morning to grab a cup of coffee at Starbucks on Greenwich Avenue. Since moving his show to Stamford, Springer has become a regular at the hub.

Most people in the coffee house didn’t seem phased, but a few could be seen tapping their friends on the shoulder to ask, “Is that Jerry Springer?” Springer also grabbed a New York Times before leaving.....

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10/12/09 Paul Curtis: "Somebody said, 'Oh, he's a Democrat and he edited out the ghetto.' I could care less."

A Rose Mary Woods Falshback:

GCTV producer apologizes for glitch that erased Lavery housing remark

Debate tape skips 'ghetto' comment in Greenwich selectmen's debate - Greenwich Time

The main producer of the town's government-access television station apologized Monday for what he said was the inadvertent omission of a controversial sound bite from a recent selectmen's debate.

A two-minute-13-second clip from the two-hour Oct. 1 Byram Neighborhood Association debate was accidentally cut because of a technical problem with the recording system of Greenwich Community Television, said Paul Curtis, who filmed the event himself at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church.

During the missing segment of the debate, which is posted on GCTV's Web site and was scheduled to air Monday night and twice more this month on Channel 79 for Cablevision customers, Democratic first selectman candidate Lin Lavery used the word "ghetto" during a discussion on affordable housing, a hot-button issue in Byram.....

...."I found it very curious that the debate was presented in its entirety by GCTV, except for this one moment when she referred to the complexes," said Edward Dadakis, a Republican Town Committee member. "I don't believe anyone would stoop low enough to either edit out or request that it be edited out, but it does raise a lot of questions."....

....Lavery, a selectman who came into office two years ago at the same time as Tesei, denied any involvement in the omission of the clip from the debate.

"Good grief, no," Lavery said in an interview. "This is news (to me). I didn't even know this happened."....

Comment About This Greenwich Time Story At The Greenwich Topix Forum


UPDATE:




To the editor:


I would like to put to rest any rumors concerning the Greenwich Community Television coverage of the Byram Neighborhood Association debate recorded on Oct. 1. I did not realize a portion of the debate commentary was missing until this rumor was brought to my attention.

During the recording of the debate, a technical problem occurred that dropped two minutes and thirteen seconds of the debate. This was not intentional, nor was the loss of recorded footage under my control.

Greenwich Community Television always records and presents "gavel-to-gavel" coverage of all public meetings. In the more than 150 town meetings and public events Greenwich Community Television has covered since 2004, this problem has only occurred three times.

I apologize for any missed commentary during the Byram Neighborhood Association debate, and assure the viewing public that Greenwich Community Television's policy of unfettered and transparent coverage of town meetings and events will continue.

Paul Curtis


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10/12/09 Ridberg: "I will be here until November 2011"



On the heels of a state Supreme Court decision that put to rest a lawsuit that had halted police department promotions for years, the police chief announced Monday that he has signed on to lead the department for another two years.

The news comes just weeks before the department's No. 2 command official is set to officially retire under the conditions of a separation agreement worked out with the town last year, a copy of which was obtained by Greenwich Time.

Both agreements aim to turn the tide within the department, which has been plagued with litigation and internal conflict. However, the agreements have also caused rumblings within the rank and file over the fairness of the closed-door deals.....

Ka Chung .... Ka Ching .... Ka Ching .....

The agreement stipulates that Ridberg be paid an annual $36,000 stipend issued monthly on top of his $145,000 base salary through November 2011.

The stipend puts Ridberg at the top end of the salary range for his position, which is capped at $186,000.....

.....The town also entered into an agreement with Captain Michael Pacewicz, the department's second-in-command, in December 2008 stipulating that the department veteran would step down at the end of 2008, but remain on active payroll until Nov. 1, 2009, using accrued vacation and sick time in addition to 25 weeks of severance pay.

The newly obtained separation agreement also stipulates that Pacewicz will receive a lump sum of $17,800 in additional compensation for his years of service. Human resources officials said Pacewicz's final salary was $117,870. He also received a 10 percent bump in his pension enabling him to reach the maximum pension percentage a police officer can receive......

...."We had nothing to do with the agreement and didn't know about it until our attorney asked for a copy from the town," said Bonney. {Sgt. James Bonney, president of the Silver Shield Association police union}

While none agreed to comment on the record, some police officers have voiced concerns about the agreements awarding additional compensation while the rank and file has been forced to pick up much of the slack caused by the injunction.....

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10/12/09 There's a new Art Meetup Group!

New Art Meetup Group!

Ceramic and pottery artists

Our goal is to build an environment where newcomers to pottery as well as professional artists can learn and come to create in a place with an atmosphere of warmth, sharing and love of clay.

Organized by:
Lakeside Pottery

CHECK OUT THIS MEETUP GROUP

10/12/09 Greenwich Taxpayers To Pay Through The Nose To As The Town Rewards David Ridberg With $181,000 Plus Benefits For Failure After Failure

On the heels of a state Supreme Court decision that put to rest a lawsuit that had halted police department promotions for years, the police chief announced Monday that he has signed on to lead the department for another two years.

The news comes just weeks before the department's No. 2 command official, Michael Pacewitz is set to officially retire under the conditions of a separation agreement worked out with the town last year.

Both agreements aim to turn the tide within the department, which has been plagued with litigation and internal conflict. However, the agreements have also caused rumblings within the rank and file over the fairness of the closed-door deals.

Greenwich Chief David Ridberg will be here until November 2011.

Ridberg who is laughing all the way to the bank has not revealed his plans beyond that date.

The agreement, that is going to make Greenwich taxpayers pay through the nose, stipulates that Ridberg be paid an annual $36,000 stipend issued monthly on top of his $145,000 base salary through November 2011.

The stipend puts Ridberg at the top end of the salary range for his position, which is capped at $186,000.

First Selectman Peter Tesei said the decision to compensate Ridberg was the only viable option he saw to help the department transition into a new era following several tenuous years caused by a police lieutenant's lawsuit that froze promotions to the top four command staff positions.

Since December 2008, all four positions have been vacant.

The cause of the injunction, a lawsuit filed by Lt. Gary Honulik in 2004 over a controversial promotion to captain.

The town also entered into an agreement with Captain Michael Pacewicz, the department's second-in-command, in December 2008 stipulating that the department veteran would step down at the end of 2008, but remain on active payroll until Nov. 1, 2009, using accrued vacation and sick time in addition to 25 weeks of severance pay.

Pacewicz was promoted to captain over Honulik in 2003, a move that led to the lawsuit.

The separation agreement also stipulates that Pacewicz will receive a lump sum of $17,800 in additional compensation for his years of service.

Pacewicz's final salary was $117,870. He also received a 10 percent bump in his pension enabling him to reach the maximum pension percentage a police officer can receive.

First Selectman Peter Tesei said he agreed that removing Pacewicz helped ease tensions in the department.

Sgt. James Bonney, president of the Silver Shield Association police union, has repeatedly declined to comment on Pacewicz's retirement package.

Many front line police officers have voiced concerns about the agreements awarding additional compensation while the rank and file has been forced to pick up much of the slack caused by the injunction.

The department has delegated many tasks typically completed by captains and deputy chiefs to lieutenants as a result of the injunction.

Mr. Tesei is the acting police commissioner of Greenwich.

Tesei said the proposal is pending approval by the Board of Estimate and Taxation, but hopes the promotional process could be complete within 6 months.

Tesei said they were hopeful the department would be able to move forward and make up for lost time.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

10/11/09 Comment On These Greenwich Time News Reports At The Greenwich Topix Forum



School board weighs cost savings in GHS auditorium project
The school board faces some difficult decisions over the next two weeks as members assess a menu of cost-saving options that could significantly change the scope of the high school auditorium project.

The Board of Education will consider eliminating or reducing some key features of the renovation and expansion project, while potentially adding other features, in an effort to come up with the most cost-efficient plan.

The effort comes after preliminary cost estimates showed the overall price would be more than 20 percent higher than projected under the original building specifications. According to that estimate, construction costs would reach more than $28 million, up from the earlier projection of less than $23.5 million.
Comment?

Susannah Chase remembered at annual run
One day after what would have been her 35th birthday, about 300 runners, family members and friends gathered at Greenwich Point for an annual fundraising run to remember Greenwich High School graduate Susannah Chase, who was murdered in Colorado 12 years ago.

Joining her parents, Julie and Hal, at the 12th annual 5k Susannah's Run, were her four siblings: Carrie, 45, Christy, 43, Stephen, 42, and Doug, 39, and their 10 children.

Christy, who lives in Providence, R.I., said the event brings people together who shared in Susannah's life.....
Comment?

Verdict overturned in age discrimination lawsuit
Several months after a jury awarded a former town employee $50,000, finding that her contract had been breached, a state Superior Court judge has overturned the verdict and handed a victory to the town.

Bernadette Welch, the town's former deputy human resources director, sued the town in 2006, alleging she was the victim of age discrimination and gender bias. The lawsuit also claimed her contract was breached during her termination.

While a jury did not find evidence of age or gender bias, it did award Welch damages in July, finding there was a breach in her contract due to the town not placing her name on a re-employment list.
Comment?

Immigration officials: August 'human smuggling' incident was fabricated
It was described as a "human-smuggling bust" and a "botched ransom," but one week after Greenwich police and immigrations agents detained four people stemming from a August melee in Riverside, officials determined the incident was neither.

In fact, the dispute in the Riverside Commons parking lot -- an episode that sparked national media attention -- turned out to be an argument over money between three illegal immigrants who had just entered the country and a driver who requested more money to continue the trip to Willimantic where the passengers' relatives lived.

"Agent Davis (from federal Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agency) advised me that the entire kidnapping story was completely fabricated and that the three reported victims had actually just entered the United States illegally," states an Aug. 12 Greenwich police report written by Officer Martin O'Reilly. "After entering the country, family members of the three reported victims made arrangements via legitimate transportation companies to have them driven to Connecticut. An additional fee of $60 per person was requested "¦ the family members refused to make the additional payment when the van arrived, at which time an argument ensued...."

....Greenwich Police Chief David Ridberg said it is his policy not to comment on other agencies' investigations, but wanted residents to know they had no reason to fear the incident.
"I can say that the incident at the (shopping center) had no connections at all to Greenwich other than the fact the involved parties happened to come together just off Exit 5 of I-95," Ridberg said. "There is absolutely no reason for residents to be concerned about any fallout from this incident or similar activity in the future."


One person involved in the August dispute, described as a friend to the driver of the van, fled after hearing police sirens and was not captured. ICE officials did not comment on whether they are actively looking for that person.
Comment?

Local locks shorn for a good cause
Sisters Shannon, 12, and Olivia Rubin, 9, had thigh-length blond hair when they walked into the hair salon Sunday morning.

"It feels weird," Olivia said to her parents Jeff and Laura as she held her shortened hair. "I don't know if my friends will recognize me."

"It feels so much lighter," Shannon said after the sisters took part in a charitable event Sunday at Hopscotch, at 10 Railroad Ave.

The event was dubbed "Locks of Love," and the goal was to collect hair that can be later used to create wigs for children who have suffered hair loss due to medical conditions or as a result of chemotherapy, Hopscotch co-owner Hisao Oe said......
Comment?

Letters from our Readers - Safety first
It is completely irresponsible for Lin Lavery to criticize Superintendent Freund for declining to have Greenwich Schools participate in the state walk or bike to school contest ......

.....Thank you Superintendent Freund for caring more about the safety of our kids than making grand political statements!
Peggy Heppelmann
Greenwich

Comment?

Eight is enough
As Frank MacEachern reported on Oct. 8, I told our Planning and Zoning Commission that a ninth bank in Cos Cob will make Cos Cob a banking center for all Greenwich residents, who will increasingly drive here for convenience and free parking.....

....A second Peoples Bank in Cos Cob does not increase variety. Greenwich does not need more criss-crossing traffic. Cos Cob does not need nine banks.
Peter E. Berg
Cos Cob

The writer is a member of the RTM Land Use Committee.
Comment?

Nino Sechi - Greenwich needs more affordable housing, but Byram not the answer
In the past two years, I've attended at least four community meetings on the subject of affordable and workforce housing in Greenwich.

As a senior citizen, a resident of Greenwich for more than 80 years, a homeowner and taxpayer for 50 of those years, I think I know this town fairly well. My own conclusion, from the very introduction of this issue, has been that we need this form of housing -- desperately.

We're almost at a critical stage in this area. Selectman Lin Lavery's recent comment keeps popping up in my head: "By 2020, our 65-and-over population will make up about 30 percent of the town's population." That could present a very serious housing drought for Greenwich seniors and service personnel if we don't arrive at a positive decision and proceed with the construction of affordable housing in our community.

The Byram Neighborhood Association sponsored a meeting last Wednesday evening at St. Paul Episcopal Church to hear what the candidates for the Board of Selectmen had to say about the shortage of senior and workforce housing in Greenwich......

Nino Sechi is a Greenwich native and a former newspaper reporter and public relations executive. He welcomes your comments via his e-mail address, nsech@aol.com.
Comment?
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10/11/09 $39.5 Million Equestrian Estate Takes The Reins In Greenwich


Billed as the “ultimate equestrian estate,” this $39.5 million complex in Greenwich, Conn., embodies the uppermost New England aesthetic. A maple-lined drive ends at fountain and courtyard in front of the massive Palladian-inspired mansion designed architect Robert Lamb Hart. Roughly 20,000 square-feet are spread throughout the 33-room Oilfield Farm, which sits on more than 18 acres of manicured, painstakingly maintained countryside. The home has an 11-bay garage, media room, steam room, and an expansive wine cellar and grotto, but the highlight of the property is its equestrian center. Two stables flank on-site groom’s quarters and stalls that have room for 39 horses. The center continues with paddocks, a polo practice field and adjoining horse track.


[via luxist]


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10/11/09 The Raw Greenwich News Feed: Afternoon Edition

Greenwich field hockey beats Warde in OT
Greenwich Time
Coming into Saturday's game with Fairfield Warde, the Greenwich High School field hockey team had a long and exhausting week. The game in Fairfield marked ...
Greenwich families help break reading record
Greenwich Post
Five families enrolled in The Greenwich Alliance for Education's Parent Child Home Program joined hundreds of thousands of children and adults around the ...
Greenwich briefs
Greenwich Time
A portion of the proceeds from the event will go toward funding a scholarship for a Greenwich High School student who will be majoring in business in ...
Greenwich Academy field hockey team beats Millbrook School, remains unbeaten
Greenwich Time
Held scoreless the first 27 minutes, 47 seconds of Saturday's game against Millbrook School, the Greenwich Academy field hockey team tallied six goals the ...

Ribbon Cutting at AT&T's New Store on Greenwich Ave – Our Greenwich
By johnferrisrobben
0 Comments on "Ribbon Cutting at AT&T's New Store on Greenwich Ave". Leave a Comment. Name (required). Email (required) (will not be published). Website (optional). Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. Subscribe to Feed ...
Our Greenwich - http://ourgreenwich.com/
Eye on Greenwich Connecticut: Questioning the other "One"
By greenwichguy
Recent studies show that the earth's temperature has been stable if not cooling for the last eleven years. Why then the panic? It is because, like Presidential Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel says, no crises should go to waste. ...
Eye on Greenwich Connecticut - http://eyeongreenwich.blogspot.com/



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