Coach Chris Rurak in his office in Cos Cob. Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich High School’s hockey program is growing under the leadership of Coach Chris Rurak, an avid hockey player and father of twin boys at CMS who share his passion.

Rurak came to coach the GHS hockey team in 2016-17. That year, 49 players signed up for try outs and 24 made varsity, 12 made JV.

His second year the number who tried out increased to 56 and 27 made Varsity; 13 made JV.

This year 60 players signed up for tryouts and  31 played on varsity and 19 on JV.

“The more numbers we have, the stronger the varsity team is,” Rurak said. “We’ve only had one state championship and it was 26 years ago. Hopefully we’ll have another. We’ve come very close.”

Rurak said his message is simple. “Not every kid can play Varsity, but just because they can’t play Varsity doesn’t mean they love the sport any less.”

“We are creating a new culture at Greenwich High School,” he said, adding that outside public school there is money involved and “pay to play” comes with certain expectations.

After decades, the GHS Cardinal logo was painted onto ice at Hamill Rink in Byram in 2018.

At GHS Rurak has modeled hockey off a Division 1 college experience. “We take it very seriously. It’s merit based and run professionally.”

He said there is only a tiny chance a high school player will play at a Division 1 level.

“But 100% of our kids are here right now, so why can’t we give them a D1 experience at the high school level,” he asked, adding that that message has taken off.

“I view it as my civic duty as a high school coach that if a kid wants to play hockey, we should find a way for them to play,” Coach Rurak said.

Toward that end, he talks to each player after tryouts to try to make sure he has somewhere to play.

“We’re trying to cater to all kids. I’m not partial to any one. I care about them all equally and all the programs equally,” Rurak said.

Junior Varsity
Rurak said the JV team was previously limited to scrimmages against other JV teams. “There was no structure,” he said. “It was just entertainment based.”

Then Rurak reached out to 6 FCIAC teams last year and started a JV league including Greenwich, Darien, Fairfield Ludlow, New Canaan, Ridgefield and St. Joe’s.

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“We piloted the six-team league last year. We didn’t know if it was going to take off or fit into the schedule,” he recalled. “All the coaches said, ‘Let’s give it a shot.’ It ended up being a huge success.”

Building on that success, last year the JV league went to 12 teams.

“We always think bigger and better so we opened it up, adding  Immaculate High School, Norwalk’s Brien McMahon, Notre Dame West Haven, Westport’s Staples, Trumbull and Fairfield Prep.”

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“Every team will play each other once. Then we’ll have finals and it’ll be awesome,” Rurak said, adding the finals will probably be at the Danbury Ice Arena, which is NHL regulation size, unlike Hamill Rink which is 15 feet deficient.

There is even a dedicated JV website.

In addition to changing the culture of GHS’s hockey program and opening it up to more players, Rurak said there are other big moves.

Playing in the Off Season
The hockey season runs December to March, and Rurak wanted his players to have opportunities to play in the off season. That would ultimately help them work toward the goal of winning a state championship.

“All the kids wanted to play together,” he recalled. “Kids used to head off to  Darien, Westchester, Stamford or to the Junior Rangers U18 programs. All my kids were fractured into other programs who were doing this for their own high school teams.”

So last year he worked out an arrangement with the Whalers so all the kids could play up in Norwalk.

That, however meant driving up I95 on Fridays at 6pm. “They did a great job, but location wise it was tough.”

“So what I did was approach the Greenwich Blues and asked if they’d be interested in having a U18 team,” Rurak explained. “They said yes because there isn’t one.”

“Keith Orrico, president of Greenwich Blues, said, ‘What if we just rebrand the whole program Greenwich Cardinals Youth Hockey Association?'”

The Blues became the Greenwich Cardinals Youth Hockey Association (GCYHA) which many shorten simply to Junior Cardinals.

That did the trick. “They more than doubled their numbers just on rebranding their program.”

“All I was looking for was a place for my players to play in the half season,” Rurak said.

Rurak said the Greenwich Skating Club, with its unique outdoor rink, is another primary feeder to the GHS program.

Winter Classic. Photo Avery Barakett for GFP

Winter Classic. Photo Avery Barakett for GFP

The Greenwich Skating Club hosts the annual “Winter Classic” in December between rivals Greenwich and Darien. The game starts at 4:00pm in daylight and ends at night with the lights coming on half way through.

“There’s only so many seats available, and they go within 10 minutes. It’s the only outdoor game there is,” Rurak said. “Rob Burnett is the announcer. It’s one game and for a trophy, and it’s awesome.”

Because Winter Classic has been such a popular tradition, and because Rurak is constantly seeking ways to improve the high school experience, this year the team is going to play two Rhode Island Teams – Bishop Hendricken and LaSalle Academy – at Providence College in February.

“Darien is coming with us as a travel partner and staying overnight just like a D1 hockey schedule at a D1 rink,” Rurak said, adding that Greenwich’s closest rink and rival is Darien. “We’ll play one on Saturday and then flip and play one on Sunday.”

“The rivalry enhances the playing experience and creates the atmosphere we’re looking for,” he explained.

“There is a certain atmosphere with high school sports you can’t get anywhere else. It’s unique because it’s community based and includes your friends, your family and your parents’ friends. This is your home. It’s intimate.”

“That’s why they always say high school sports are the time of your life,” Rurak said. “We’re trying to make the experience the best and most fun as it can be.”

Hockey Prom
Another idea of Rurak’s was to create a “hockey prom” with the girls and boys teams mixing it up for coed teams with at least two girls on the ice at all times. “It’s just a fun event,” Rurak said.

“The first year they were a little tentative,” he recalled. “But this year one of the girls said, ‘Coach, that was the most fun I had all year.”

“The boys are saying, ‘Wow those girls are really good.’ There’s a mutual respect,” Rurak said.

“We also get the little kids to skate in warm ups,” Rurak said, adding that the goal is to continue to build community support and a pipeline of enthusiastic players for the high school program.

Local Live – Live Streamed and On Demand Games
Toward that end, the addition of Local Live for live streamed and on demand TV coverage of games has been well received. “We even produced commercials for the Cos Cobber and Garden Catering,” Rurak said.

“When these kids are 50 they can get together and watch a game,” Rurak said. “I got nothing – just some newspaper clippings.”

Left to right: Andrew Boer, Rob Burnett, Chris Jones and Coach Chris Rurak at Hamill Rink on Thursday, Feb 1, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager

Booster Club
Two years ago a Booster Club for GHS hockey was formed. Rurak said there is a Treasurer so he never has to touch the money.

The Booster Club includes parents of the four captains and, for every captain’s parent there is an underclassman’s parent. “That way everyone gets a say on how the money raised benefits the entire program, the whole team,” Rurak explained.

The quick growth in the program also presents challenges, ice time being paramount.

“Ice time is limited and budget is limited,” he said, adding that with 50 players he’s been trying to increase ice time for the team. “But it’s it’s expensive and hard to come by.”

On occasion, the team purchases ice time from other venues beyond the home rink, with is Hamill Rink in Byram.

“Another sheet would be helpful,” he said, which is an understatement.

Greenwich’s aging ice rink, originally an open air rink in the 1950s, with its walls and ceiling added over the years, has only a single bathroom for teams and spectators, and there are no showers or locker rooms.

In recent years the compressors have malfunctioned, and at the end of every summer, rink staff cross their fingers that the aging ice-making equipment will abide.

Rurak’s enthusiasm for GHS hockey and motivation to give players the best experience possible is paying off. The state championship remains tantalizingly close.

“Last year 2017-18 we had the most regular season wins. We had 18 wins and 2 losses and made it to the finals,” he said. “They won 4 to 2 with an open net goal – we outplayed them and out shot them. We just had some bad bounces.”

That championship remains a tantalizing goal. Until then, Rurak continues to build the program, give as many GHS players a D1 experience as possible, and getting the community involved.

“I want to attract and retain talent and to win and FCIAC and state championship and be in position to compete for it every single year,” he said.  “I want us to be at Yale every year in the semi finals.”

See also:

GHS Cardinals Hockey Kicks It Up a Notch with Live Streamed and On-Demand Game Coverage

Holiday Winter Classic at Greenwich Skating Club is Double Victory for Cardinals

Newly Formed Greenwich Athletic Foundation Gift of Sound System for Hamill Rink Approved by RTM

Hamill Rink Will Soon Have Ice, and Sound Better, Thanks to Gift from GAF

Hamill Rink is Open, GHS Cardinal is Finally Painted on the Ice

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive
Greenwich, CT 06830

Listed at: $2,195,000-$2,495,000
Greenwich MLS # 103641, 103661, 103662

Bedrooms: 3-4
Baths: 3-4 Full, 1 Half
Fireplace: 1-2
Acres: .22
Sq ft: 2,673, 2,526, 3,163
Built in 2018

Listed by: Dianne Orlando
Coldwell Banker
Tel: (203) 536-0317
Email: dorlando.dev@gmail.com

Introducing the fourth downtown Greenwich community in the Orlando Development portfolio, Avenue Terrace features six luxury townhomes with modern farmhouse exteriors steps from the area’s best shopping, dining and entertainment, and all located just minutes from the Metro North Commuter Rail.

Natural light showcases generous open concept layouts within each unit. Enjoy custom built-ins, cozy farmhouse fireplaces, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, private terraces, shiplap detail, sunlit breakfast nooks, and extra ceiling height with each unit offering unique distinctions to suit the needs of all buyers!

Visit www.avenue-terrace.com for floorplans. Three units currently available for May 1 delivery, either for sale or rent.

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Avenue Terrace, 23/25 Woodland Drive, Greenwich

Dianne Orlando is a licensed real estate broker with Coldwell Banker. She has over twenty years’ experience in Greenwich Real Estate. She partnered in the
conceptualization, design, and marketing of over $100,000,000 in downtown
Greenwich real estate listings and sales.

Contact Dianne with questions or to schedule a private tour at (203) 536-0317 or email dorlando.dev@gmail.com

Federica and Luca Morabito with the Coffee Luca logo outside Something Natural Greenwich. Photo: Leslie Yager

Federica, Marisol, Christian and Luca Morabito at Coffee Luca inside Something Natural Greenwich. Photo: Leslie Yager

This week patrons of Something Natural Greenwich, behind Saks at 189 Greenwich Ave, are discovering big changes at the coffee bar, which is now named Coffee Luca.

Luca Morabito has taken over the coffee operation in a unique collaboration with the restaurant owners, Seth and Molly Hirschel.

The eatery, which opened two years ago, has become a popular destination for fresh baked bread, salads, sandwiches and juices. They also do a brisk delivery and catering business.

The the owners have a licensing agreement with Matt Fee whose iconic Nantucket sandwich shop dates back to the 1970s.

But, this week, said Seth, “We knew we could do a better job with the coffee than we were doing. And Luca has the passion, the experience and desire to serve the best product.”

“We had customers asking for more sophisticated options for coffee,” he added.

Meanwhile, Diane Roth, a commercial agent with Allied Properties, who had originally put the Hirschels in their space behind Saks, was helping Luca search for a spot for his own coffee shop.

“Luca came to me and said, ‘I want to open a coffee shop,'” she said. “First we looked for a shop on Greenwich Avenue, but it was very expensive. We also looked in Old Greenwich, but it was very expensive for a build out.”

Then, Roth recalled, “I said wait a second. Seth has a coffee station and there is more potential there.”

Roth called Seth to propose the collaboration. “He’s open-minded. He said it might work. Everything was in place. He had the coffee pots already.”

And, Roth said, “It’s nice to see artisan businesses opening up in the community instead of just national brands.”

“We are symbiotic,” Seth said. “He’s serving the coffee and breakfast crowd. Our mainstay is lunch, deliveries and catering. He is supplementing our business, and we’re helping drive traffic to each other and optimizing the space. It’s a win-win.”

Luca, who many patrons recognize from a previous position at a roastery, said he enjoys sharing his passion for coffee with customers who ask about the beans, their origins, and the different roasts.

“We give all our beans the right time to breath after being roasted,” he explained in his Italian accent. “We don’t roast and serve right away. We give time to release the flavor.”

Luca and Federica Morabito with children Christian and Marisol outside Something Natural Greenwich. Photo: Leslie Yager

Luca, whose wife Federica is a US citizen, said the family moved from Calabria in south Italy to Greenwich in 2014. Federica, who has extended family here said that she, Luca and their children learned to speak English here in Greenwich.

“The Greenwich people are our teachers,” Luca said.

Christian Morabito, a 4th grader at Hamilton Avenue School who speaks fluent English, said he was an ESL student for three years. The couple also have a baby Leonardo, 15 months, and daughter Marisol, a 6th grader at Western Middle School.

“When I met Federica 20 years ago, I started to work in a restaurant with her uncle. Then I attended hospitality school in Italy,” Luca recalled. From there he worked in downtown Milan in the coffee business, and in 2009 he, Federica and her family moved to run a restaurant in Calabria on the beach. In 2013 they took on a pizzeria in Calabria.

Still, the American Dream beckoned them, and they followed the footsteps of Federica’s relatives, who were already here.

Luca, who has a business partner named Lukas, who specializes in marketing, graphic design and social media, said he is typically up and at work well before 6am.

As he shared photos of the sun rising over Something Natural, he described his earliest experiences with coffee in Calabria in the 1970s and 80s.

A waffle stick and Cappuccino at Coffee Luca, which is located within Something Natural Greenwich.

“The beans would get sent to the nonna – the grandmother – for the family and they would still be green. She would roast them in a big pan.”

Today, at Coffee Luca the two custom blends are Musica (Americana blend) and Poesia (Espresso Italiano).

“They are custom roasts,” Luca explained, adding that he works with a nearby roaster. “I give them my recipe and they roast them and deliver.  Or I buy the original beans and blend them myself.”

“Coffee and biscotti are the most popular. People love it and they come back,” he said. “They dip the biscotti in the latte or cappuccino.”

Trays of Italian biscotti at Coffee Luca.

Also popular are original and Nutella cannolis, and the waffle sticks.

Luca said he just added individual tiramisu servings in small glass jars to his offerings, and plans to add bread pudding this week.

Other options include muffins, egg and cheese croissants, and egg white frittatas. Pies are also a hit and this week his pie with organic fig preserve sold out fast.

Patrons are also enjoying Luca’s personalized oatmeal mixes with organic and gluten free oatmeal packaged inside mason jars that can be returned and refilled. Customers control the toppings and have options including raisins, nuts, marshmallow, chocolate chips, peanut butter and fresh or dried fruits.

Coffee Luca and Something Natural Greenwich are both eco-sustainable and environment-friendly. Straws are made of paper. What looks like plastic cups are actually fabricated from corn. Containers are biodegradable.

Today the hours of Coffee Luca are 6:am to 4:00pm and Something Natural’s hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm, but Luca said he is considering extending his hours in the upcoming warmer months.

The restaurant which is the result of a total renovation of a historic carriage house and includes a bakery downstairs, affords patrons the choice of eating in the spacious, light filled restaurant, or, in the warmer months the option of sitting outside on the porch or at picnic tables in the side yard, in a nod to Something Natural in Nantucket.

Coffee Luca and Something Natural are located at 189 Greenwich Avenue (behind Saks).

Parking. There is a private parking in the back for quick pick up with a 15 minute maximum.

Check out Coffee Luca on Facebook.

Tel. (203) 727-3124.

Check out our original features on Something Natural Greenwich:

Savoring Sammies and Salads at Something Natural in Greenwich

Something Natural of Nantucket Unearths History in Former Greenwich Ave Carriage House

A “no,” an interpretation and a “maybe.” Those were the responses from the Planning & Zoning Commission on Tuesday night to applications from Mary and Parker Stacy who operated a counseling practice from their home at 1 Kinsman Lane without a permit for over 20 years.

The Stacys initially submitted an application to become “Resident Medical Professional Office” after they received a Violation from the Town Zoning Enforcement Officer.

That application didn’t go through smoothly since their practice doesn’t meet the definition of Resident Medical Professional Office.

“Their site plan and special permit application was denied,” Katie DeLuca said on WGCH 1490 on Wednesday morning.

Next they came in with a proposed text amendment to allow for a “Healthcare Professional,” which is the use the Stacys actually do fall under.

“There was the usual opposition we hear from neighbors, but people from other parts of Town also came and opposed it, saying that in their view it would be an impingement of commercial use into residential zones,” DeLuca said.

At previous P&Z meetings, neighbors complained that groups come to the Stacys’ home, which is on a dead end in Bruce Park close to I95, both during the days and evenings and often park on their narrow lane.

The specific edit was to change Medical Professional to Medical & Healthcare Professional.

They also proposed to add this text:

“Any group sessions or meeting shall be limited to no more than ten (10) participants,” and “No group session shall be permitted after 8:00pm.”

The Commission did deny the Stacys’ other application which was for a special permit to have group counseling sessions to continue at their 1 Kinsman Lane residence.

Nick Macri, the Commission Secretary, stated in his motion to deny the proposal, saying it met neither the intent of the regulations nor the definitions they contain.

The Stacys’ request for a text amendment was left open.

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Also on Tuesday night, a request for clarification of the restrictions for open space came from applicants Calabrese Property Association and Mariano Lozano.

This followed an Open Space violation on the Mianus River.

The owners, who bought a property in a subdivision off Sheephill Rd, sought permission for masonry steps and pathways in the open space parcel at 16 Lakeview Drive.

The applicants had received an approval for a dock, but according to DeLuca, they did not read the writing on the approval from First Selectman Peter Tesei and did not seek the necessary Wetlands approval.

Then they decided to put in a path to the dock which is a violation of the Declaration of Restrictions for Open Space.

“They came in and tried to argue it was not a violation, which the commission did not agree with,” DeLuca said. “And they said fine, let us change the (open space) Declaration, and the commission was not pleased with that.”

Commission members replied by reading aloud the Open Space agreement’s terms which specified that no improvements would be allowed on the land.

The application was was also left open, but the commission was near unanimous in its response to the question it raised.

The applicant is also seeking Inland Wetlands approval for the dock, which has already been built.

An application for a rowing facility with 12 residential units above the club at 89 River Road was sent back to the Architectural Review Committee for further revision.

“It was fun to listen to them them go through and tell how they met all the requirements of the new regulation in terms of public access walkways and making sure that the water side has been maxed out as much as it could before they do land improvements,” said DeLuca who is a rower. “It was left open because of issues with traffic and truck movements, and they have to return to ARC.”

The initial ARC comments found the building ‘monumental and overbuilt’.

This was the first application to come in since the commission overhauled Waterfront Business zone.

The Planning and Zoning Commission emphasized its priority to protect water views.

Commissioner David Yeskey asked the applicant to consider repositioning the building on the site to enable greater vistas.

Currently there are rowing docks at the property for Row America. In addition to the 12 residential units, the applicant plans to add 20+ motorboat docks for a marina.

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 12-15, 2019 transcribed from the Assessor’s office at Greenwich Town Hall

481 Round Hill Rd. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

481 Round Hill Rd from 20 Par Club Circle to Philip Ruth on April 12, 2019 for $2,000,000

7 Binney Lane. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

7 Binney Lane from Robert and Becki Burdick to Conrad Levy and Clare Flynn on April 12, 2019 for $3,150,000

5 Griffith Rd. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

5 Griffith Rd from Estate of Jane S Hawkins to Shing Wai Leung on April 12, 2019 for $580,000

12 Shore Road. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

12 Shore Road from 12 Shore Road LLC to Michael Ettinger on April 12, 2019 for $2,675,000

1 LeGrande Ave. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

1 LeGrande Ave from Loraine Salerno to 1 LeGrande Avenue LLC on April 12, 2019 for $1,075,000

6 Glen Road. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

6 Glen Road from Stephen and Madalyn Tobias to Stephen Harrison on April 15, 2019 for $1,622,500

169 Mason Street Unit 2D. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

169 Mason Street Unit 2D from Ruth Ann Burns to Roberta Jurik on April 15, 2019 for $400,000

See also:

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 9-10, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 5-8, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 1-3, 2019

P&Z Watch: Property Rights Struggle Bubbling Up at Shore Acres

P&Z Watch: Illegal Apartment in Byram Becomes Legit as “Affordable”

Next for the Wrecking Ball in Greenwich: 1931 French Style Brick Mansion

Pruner on Greenwich Real Estate Trends: “Front Country” Along Post Rd and I95

Kids In Crisis will host its 12th and final triathlon of the Stamford KIC IT Race Series on Sunday, June 23 at Cummings Park in Stamford.

Stamford KIC IT Races raise awareness and much needed funds for Kids In Crisis’ free emergency shelter and 24-hour crisis counseling services, for Fairfield country children and families.

On June 23 triathletes will compete in Olympic, Sprint or Relay races beginning at 7:00am.  The popular Kids Triathlon will follow at 12:30pm.

Fees vary by race, and relay teams as well as individual participants are encouraged to register.  Athletes who register as fundraisers are eligible for free race entry, VIP Parking on race day, prime bike racking spots, upgraded goody bags, a high-end ¼ zip pullover, and more. Fundraising athletes can also win great prizes which in the past have included round-trip airline tickets on Jetblue, vacation getaways, and a brand new road or triathlon bike!

Because the Stamford KIC IT Race Series is such an important fundraiser for Kids In Crisis, the event will undergo an exciting transformation, and new races are being planned for 2020.

“After 12 years of successful triathlons we’re going out on a high note, and excited about changing things up for 2020,” said Kids In Crisis Executive Director Shari Shapiro.

Per Shapiro, this year’s race is expected to sell-out due to the historic nature of the event, and registrations have been coming in strong.

Visit www.kicitraces.org for more information. Those interested in becoming a fundraising athlete, and/or raising funds to help support the critical programs at Kids In Crisis, are asked to please contact Natasha Hafez at nhafez@kidsincrisis.org.

Volunteers are being sought for race day as well as pre- and post- race day. This is an excellent opportunity to come with a group, bring the family, or come alone and make new friends. Those interested are asked to visit www.kicitraces.org/volunteer.

Sponsors are also being sought, and are asked to contact Beth Jabick at 203-622-6556 or bjabick@kidsincrisis.org for more information.

Located in Cos Cob, Kids In Crisis provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, and community education programs for children of all ages and families facing crisis. Crisis can include domestic violence, mental health concerns, homelessness, substance abuse, economic difficulties, and other critical challenges.

The Kids In Crisis Helpline is staffed 24 hours a day, and provides free, confidential phone and face-to-face intervention, counseling, and referrals. Since its founding in 1978, Kids In Crisis has provided vital 24-hour services to more than 148,000 children and teens, and their families. More information can be found at www.kidsincrisis.org.  Providers, educators, community members, and family members are encouraged to call the 24-hour helpline: 203-661-1911 for guidance, referrals and support.

Eugene Patrick Carlin Sr., of Greenwich, passed away Wednesday April 17. He was 86. Born in Port Chester August 1, 1932 to Eugene and Anna Carlin, Eugene proudly served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a skilled mason and served as the shop steward for the Westchester Local 48 Bricklayer’s Union.

Eugene was a member of the The Griff Mens Golf Club, Knights of Columbus of Greenwich and an active member in the 9th District Vets. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen (nee Cuddy); his loving children Cheryl Carlin (Patrick Vagnone) , Eugene Patrick Jr. (Wendy), Colleen Nastahowski (Scott), and Brian (Dona); and his cherished grandchildren Dayna, Erin, Leah, Eugene Patrick III, Alexandra, Emma, Ava, Scott, Shane, Courtney, Brendan, and step grandchildren Robbie and Kelly Marino, Alyssa Marino, Dominique Conetta, and Kyle Conetta.

He is predeceased by his dear granddaughter Rachel Sottosanti. To honor his life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday April 22, 2019 at 11: 00 am at St. Paul’s R.C. Church, 84 Sherwood Greenwich; followed by interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery ,North Street Greenwich.

The family would like to thank doctors Steven Glasser, Kevin Conboy and James Sabetta for their care and dedication.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made to Kids in Crisis in his name.

YWCA Greenwich and March On Greenwich are organizing “Greenwich Next: Moving Forward Together” on Sunday April 28 from 2:30pm to 4:00pm at the YWCA Greenwich, 259 East Putnam Ave.

This is an opportunity to speak with your elected officials about the progress and current state of the legislative agenda.

The event will be moderated by Jara Burnett, President of the League of Women Voters. Learn how to support our representatives and bridge the partisan divide. Work together to overcome fiscal and social issues facing Connecticut.

Space is limited. Please RSVP no later than April 25 to GreenwichNext@gmail.com

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 15-16, 2019 transcribed from the Assessor’s office at Greenwich Town Hall

4 Rapids Lane. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

4 Rapids Lane from William and Marie Woodburn to James Frank on April 15, 2019 for $2,900,000

147 Hendrie Ave. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

147 Hendrie Ave from Gregory and Kimberly Kuppenheimer to Hillary Stedem Trustee on April 15, 2019 for $2,862,000

118 Greenwich Hills Drive. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

118 Greenwich Hills Drive from Richard and Vicik Shapiro to Richard Leo on April 15, 2019 for $712,000

351 Pemberwick Rd. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

351 Pemberwick Rd Unit 508 from Estate of Nancy Paulson to Alexandru Panait on April 16, 2019 for $630,000

513 West Lyon Farm Drive. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

513 West Lyon Farm Drive from Stanford Guy Sutton to Aristotle Zikopoulos on April 16, 2019 for $920,000

9 Keofferam Rd. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

9 Keofferam Rd from 9 Keofferam Road LLC to Kyu Han on April 16, 2019 for $4,025,000

See also:

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 9-10, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 5-8, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 1-3, 2019

P&Z Watch: Property Rights Struggle Bubbling Up at Shore Acres

P&Z Watch: Illegal Apartment in Byram Becomes Legit as “Affordable”

Next for the Wrecking Ball in Greenwich: 1931 French Style Brick Mansion

Pruner on Greenwich Real Estate Trends: “Front Country” Along Post Rd and I95

Diver Annie Bingle. Contributed photo

L to R: Louisa Thompson, Hannah Craley, Katie Laverty, Maddie Seltzer & Reggie Frias. Contributed photo

The Marlins Diving Club from the YMCA of Greenwich had a spectacular showing at this year’s YMCA Diving Nationals in Coral Springs, Florida.

Under the coaching guidance of Dylan Korn, Lindsay Iordache and Brooke Reinfeld, the Men’s team placed third and the Women’s team placed first in the team standings, the team won for this first time, the top Combined Team Championship for 2019 among all YMCA diving programs.

The Marlins sent 25 divers to the national competition this year. A complete recap of the Marlins’ finishes, age group by age group, is as follows: In the Girls 11U events, Grayson Ford (Greenwich) placed 2nd on both 1m and 3m. In the Boys 11U events, Quinn Neyer (Stamford) placed 6th on 1m and 4th on 3m.

In the Girls 12-13 1m and 3m events, respectively, Ava Vranos (Old Greenwich) placed 6th and 6th; Annelise Enters (Darien) placed 8th and 7th; and Lucille Bednar (Old Greenwich) placed 9th on 1m. In the Boys 12-13 age group, three divers competed in the 1-meter event. Declan Bannerton (Darien) placed 3rd, Jacob Winston (Old Greenwich) placed 4th; and Chase Maggio (Norwalk) placed 5th.

In the Girls 14-15 events, Annie Bingle (Riverside) won first place on both 1m and 3m, and she finished 2nd on platform. Grace Wu (Greenwich) placed 2nd on 1m and 4th on 3m. Veronica Fyfe (Hillsdale, NJ) placed 3rd on both 1m and 3m. Kaitlyn Maggio (Norwalk) placed 6th on 1m, 8th on 3m, and 3rd on platform. Ellie Scharff (Greenwich) placed 7th and 9th on 1m and 3m, respectively. Lilly Wurm (Darien) placed 11th on 1m and 7th on 3m. Julia Cabrera (Rye, NY) placed 12th on 1m and 11th on 3m. Madeline Duff (Greenwich) placed 13th on both 1m and 3m. Javiera Garcia (Old Greenwich) placed 14th on 1m and 12th on 3m. Lauren Priest (Greenwich) finished 15th on the 1-meter board.

In the Boys 14-15 events, Sawyer Neyer (Stamford) finished 5th on 1m and 4th on 3m, while Jagger Opalinski (Norwalk) finished 4th on 1m.

In the Girls 16-21 events, Hannah Craley (Redding) finished 2nd on 1m, 4th on 3m, and 12th on platform. Katie Laverty (Rye, NY) finished 5th on 1m, 8th on 3m, and 13th on platform. Madelyn Seltzer (Scarsdale, NY) finished 6th on 1m, 3 rd on 3m, and 6th on platform. Louisa Thompson (Scarsdale, NY) placed 9th on 1m and 16th on 3m. Regina Frias (Riverside) placed 11th on 1m and 17th on 3m.

Annie Bingle’s first place finishes prequalify her to the USA Diving Junior National Championships, July 30-August 5, 2019, at the Allan Jones Aquatic Center at the University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, TN.

The Marlins Diving Club will be back in the pool competing on May 3-5 at the 2019 USA Diving Regional Qualifier held at the YMCA of Greenwich.

To learn more about the Marlins Diving Club, go to their website at www.marlinsdiveclub.com or follow them on Instagram @MarlinsDivingClub.

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane
Greenwich, CT 06830

Listed at: $1,899,000
Greenwich MLS: #106034

Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 3.1
Garage: 2 Cars
Acres: 1.11
Sq ft: 4,735

Renovated Center Hall Colonial

Listed by: MaryAnn Grabel
Sotheby’s International Realty
One Pickwick Plaza
Greenwich, CT 06830
Tel: (203) 561-5151
Email: maryann.grabel@sothebyshomes.com

Basking in sunshine on a lovely country cul-de-sac is this beautifully maintained sun-filled Center hall Colonial home renovated to bring a modern and spacious flow of rooms and fabulous outdoor living spaces together on a park-like landscape affording complete privacy and winter water views.

Wonderfully updated and expanded to showcase a well-appointed modern Chef’s Kitchen offering three skylights shining over an oversized marble center island, along with favorite stainless Thermador and Sub-Zero-brand appliances. The kitchen, breakfast and family room create a seamless feeling of open spaces with convenient access to a large terrace and screened-in porch for relaxing and entertaining. The formal dining room has a floor to ceiling, Connecticut stone wood-burning fireplace and dramatic hand-crafted beam-vaulted ceiling. The study has three-exposure views and also opens to inviting outdoor living spaces. In addition to an expansive main floor mud room and laundry room along with a newer nanny or guest bedroom with high ceiling and lovely en suite bathroom, the lower level finished in 2015 offers a fabulous game room with charming built-in playhouse.

The freshly painted home has a gorgeous second floor with a master suite replete with a high ceiling, garden views, walk-in closet and luxury master bathroom appointed with a heated floor. Two bedrooms share a renovated full bathroom, also with a heated floor. The finished third floor has a perfect home office, hobby room or hang out space.

Supporting such a beautiful and peaceful 5-bedroom, 3.1 bath home are the quiet amenities, including an attached 2-car garage with workshop, an invisible fence for the dogs, outdoor play spaces for the children, along with a Kohler back up generator. Sited off a long driveway, it is just minutes to shops, schools, clubs and commuter outlets.

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

6 Carissa Lane, Greenwich

Contact MaryAnn Grabel with questions or to schedule a private tour at (203) 561-5151 or email maryann.grabel@sothebyshomes.com.

Mary Ann Grabel has been a realtor in Greenwich for more than 21 years and has a keen sense of the Greenwich market.

Catherine Sanna of Cos Cob, passed away on April 21, 2019 at the age of 90. Born on March 23, 1929 to Luigi and Susan Porcheddu in Greenwich.

Catherine graduated from Greenwich High School. She worked as a Pharmacy Technician for 15 years at Nathaniel Witherell.

Catherine was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Romeo, in 2012. She was also predeceased by her sisters Marie Stefanowicz and Josephine Rada. Catherine is the beloved mother of Stephen Sanna, Susan Migliazza (John) and Carol Zerbo (Joseph), loving grandmother of Catherine Rose Migliazza and John Migliazza III. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

To honor her life, family and friends will gather on Wednesday from 4:00-8:00pm at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home at 134 Hamilton Ave. Greenwich, CT (203) 869-5968.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00am Thursday at St. Catherine of Siena R.C. Church, followed by entombment at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Greenwich, CT. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to GEMS www.greenwichems.org

Tony Socci in his barber shop, Palm Barber on Church Street. April 22, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

One of Tony Socci’s customers gave him this framed print of Greenwich Avenue taken back when Socci had his barber shop at 160 Greenwich Ave and it was a two-way street.

Tony Socci’s face is a familiar one in Greenwich as he has cut the hair of hundreds and possibly thousands of men since opening Palm Barber Shop.

But his story starts before that. Socci made his way to Stamford from Montecassino, Italy at the age of 13.

Chatting at the end of a nearly 12-hour day on Monday, Socci recalled the family’s small farm in the hilltop village, milking cows and even drinking the milk while it was still warm.

Socci said his father, sister and brother came to the US first in the 1950s, and that he and his mother and brother joined later, being sponsored by an uncle.

He keeps a book with history of his village in Italy handy, noting that during in 1944, during World War II, a bombardment almost flattened the Montecassino Abbey, but it was rebuilt.

Socci learned to cut hair at Wright Tech in Stamford in the 1950s, though he said that program is no longer offered.

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“Back then it wasn’t easy to get a job,” he said. “But Wright Tech didn’t charge tuition either.”

Socci’s original location was in Riverside Commons where DiMare Bakery is located today. He moved to Greenwich Avenue in 1968, when it was a two-way street, and operated there for 14 years before moving to Church Street in 1982.

Of the move to Church Street, Socci said it was close enough that his regular customers followed him. The building, known as the Town & Country, was all rentals when he first opened his barber shop there, but the Town gave permission to for the building covert to condominiums. All are residential units, with the exception of two for businesses – one belonging to Palm Barber, and one belonging to Ridberg & Associates Architects.

Socci said that back in the 1950s there were at least four or five barber shops on the Avenue.

“The rents weren’t like there are today,” he said, adding that his barber shop was above Charles Stuttig’s locksmith shop. “He bought the building in 1970 and I was already there.”

William, 7, and his father Chris Davis are regular customers at Palm Barber on Church Street. April 22, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

“You build up a following and you’ve got to stay in one place,” he said. “If you jump around, say if you go to Stamford or New Canaan, forget it.”

And certainly Socci does have regulars. On Monday, despite his posted hours of 7:00am to 5:30pm, the longtime barber was still accommodating customers until about 6:30pm.

“He gives everyone the same attention,” said Chris Davis who said he started bringing his boys, William, 7, and Oliver, 9, to Palm Barber when the family moved here from Bronxville and discovered a good Google review online.

“Their mom approves every time,” he said. “That’s why we keep coming back.”

Tony Chimblo who has been coming to Palm Barber since he was 7, described himself as a loyal customer. April 22, 2019. Photo: Leslie Yager

“Usually barbers just pull the clippers out,” Davis continued. “Tony offers a scissor cut so they don’t come out looking like they had a buzz cut.”

Tony Chimblo, 27, said he’d been coming to Tony at Palm Barber since he was 7. “He does a good job,” Chimblo said. “I’m a loyal customer.”

Socci is not alone in the barber shop, where there are multiple chairs. Men, women and children are all accommodated.

A woman named Evelyn cuts women’s hair and a man named Benny works part time. A third person, Carl, who worked at Palm Barber for 20 years, returns occasionally. “Sometimes all three come in,” Socci said.

The routine is simple when a new customer comes in. Socci said he asks what the customer is looking for, and often they’ll point to one of the magazine clippings taped to the wall showing men with different hair cuts.

“We have a conversation. They may want scissors, or clippers,” he said. “The first time can be a little tricky. Then you find out what works, and they come back.”

Socci said the short sides, long top haircuts are popular with athletes and teenagers.

As for chatting with his customers while he cuts their hair, Socci said some people just sit quietly, which is fine. “If they’ve had a tough day, they want to relax. Some like to talk, but I’ve got to concentrate too.”

“If they grab a magazine, you don’t do too much talking. It’s one of the tricks of the trade,” he said of knowing how much or little to talk.

Socci is nothing if not accommodating. “If you go home and wash your hair and decide you want it shorter, you can come back and I’ll cut more. But if it’s a week later, that’s a new haircut,” he said. “And if it’s too short, you have to wait at least a week.”

Socci works at a steady pace and says that when a customer is a regular he may spend 20 minutes on average to cut their hair.

Socci’s prices are reasonable, but he does not take appointments.

That said, sometimes people will call when they’re on the way just to see if there is a line, and that’s alright too.

One rule in the barber shop is that if a customer leaves, even to get a coffee, they lose their place in line, which is certainly fair.

Of course, this being Greenwich, sometimes a person will leave and come back hoping to keep his place. In that case, they go to the back of the line unless the person ahead of him is in no rush and agrees.

The TV is on all day at the barber shop and is tuned sometimes to Channel 12, sometimes to Fox News. “Sometimes a customer will object to Fox and ask me to turn it down,” Socci said, adding that he will oblige and as a rule does not discuss politics with customers.

Socci said one of the things he likes is when old friends or people home to visit their parents stop for a haircut and reconnect. “Sometimes two people waiting will reconnect after not seeing each other for a long time,” he said. “That’s always nice.”Palm Barber Shop is located at 20 Church Street. Metered parking available on Chruch Street and Putnam Ave. Tel. (203) 869-0292

The Round Hill Association will host a panel discussion on
“Real Estate in the Backcountry: Shifting Demographics and Consumers Trends Affecting Homeowners in Northern Greenwich,” on Wednesday May 1, 2019 at 6:30pm at the Round Hill Community House, 395 Round Hill Road.

Backcountry resident and Round Hill Association board member, Brendon DeSimone, will moderate a discussion with local real estate experts about the trends that are shaping the real estate market in backcountry, what homeowners can do to enhance their property values, and the ongoing efforts to promote property ownership and life in backcountry Greenwich.

Light refreshments will be served at 6:30. The panel discussion will begin promptly at 7:00pm.

A question and answer session will follow the panelists’ remarks. This will be followed by a brief Annual Meeting. Admission is free.

Carolyn Anderson is the publisher of The Anderson Guide to Enjoying Greenwich, CT and Managing Director of Anderson Associates, an independent real estate firm specializing in residential real estate. Mrs. Anderson has been a member of the Greenwich Association of Realtors for seventeen years and currently serves as its Vice-President. In 2011, she was elected to the Real Estate Hall of Fame for her service to the real estate community and to Greenwich. Carolyn Anderson will speak about: Tips for Improving the Sales Potential of Your House, What Buyers Want in Greenwich and Why Pricing Matters.

Mark Pruner is a real estate attorney as well as a frequent speaker and writer about real estate. He has resided in  Greenwich since 1967 and in back country for twenty years. Mark is a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services and a past President of the Round Hill Association. Currently, he serves on the Real Estate Board of Appeals. Among the other boards on which he has served are the Republican Town Committee, The Greenwich Bar Association, and The Affordable Housing Commission. The writer of Real Estate Dashboard, a weekly column in the Greenwich Sentinel, Mark Pruner will speak about: Property Values in North Greenwich from 2005 to 2019.

Paul Pugliese, a graduate of the Yale School of Architecture and a partner of Greenwich Land Company, has served on the Architectural Review Committee for ten years. He has also served on the boards of the Greenwich Association of Realtors, The Greenwich Presidential Trust, and Greenwich Property Owners Association. Mr. Pugliese, an advocate for sound land use planning, has campaigned for protection of individual
property rights and protection of land value through predictable regulatory processes. Mr. Pugliese will update attendees on recent decisions made by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Architectural Review Board, which will affect property owners.

Moderator: Brendon DeSimone writes a weekly real estate column for the Zillow Blog and is the author of Next Generation Real Estate; New Rules for Smarter Home Buying and Faster Selling. A 15-year veteran of the residential real estate industry in San Francisco, NYC and Westchester, Brendon is a regularly featured guest on major television networks and programs including CNBC, FOX News, Bloomberg, Good Morning America, ABC’s 20/20 and HGTV. Brendon is the brokerage manager of the Bedford and Pound Ridge offices of Houlihan Lawrence.

About the Round Hill Association. Established in 1942, The Round Hill Association exists to foster a sense of community, to advocate for the interests of our residents and to preserve and protect the beauty and value of our neighborhood.

Granit Balidemaj announced his campaign for Greenwich Selectman on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at 11:00am at Greenwich Town Hall, 101 Field Point Rd.

Balidemaj is a Greenwich resident and has been a member of the Republican Town Committee for four years.

His parents run Alba’s, a restaurant located at 400 North Main St in Port Chester.

As a member of the RTM for District 10, he was one of the youngest members when, at 25, he filled a District 10 vacancy between elections.

During his service on the RTM, he was a part of the transportation committee and community development block grant (CDBG) program.

Balidemaj is also a football coach for the BANC Raiders.

“Greenwich is a shining example of good governance and prosperity for our state and region,” Balidemaj said in a statement on Wednesday. “This reputation is possible through thoughtful planning and strong Republican leadership, and I am running for this open seat to ensure that tradition continues.”

“I will bring a fresh perspective and new engagement with our younger electorate to ensure our party’s principles and town’s future prosper,” he added.

The public is invited to attend the kick off on Saturday.

The election for this position will be held on November 5, 2019.

In February, the current First Selectman Peter Tesei announced he would not run for a 7th term. The following week, Republican Selectman John Toner announced he would not seek another term. He was originally selected to fill the remaining term of Republican Selectman Dave Theis who died in 2014, and then won a second term, which he is currently completing.

To date the two candidates who have announced their intention to run for First Selectman are Fred Camillo and Mike Mason.

Joe Kelly, the GHS rugby coach, announced his intention to run for Selectman. All are Republicans.

No Democrats have announced candidacies for First Selectman or Selectman to date.

The Board of Selectman is comprised of three members. The First Selectman is the Town’s full-time chief executive officer.

See also:

Six-Term Republican First Selectman Peter Tesei Announces His Future Plans (Feb 1, 2019)

State Rep Camillo Announces Intent to Run for Greenwich First Selectman

Mason Outlines Plans for Greenwich at Campaign Kick Off

Anthony and Rosemarie Longo at 257 Bruce Park Ave, where four town homes will be completed in a few months. April 23, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Tony Longo, Rosemarie Longo, Anthony Longo, Mike Jedlicka and Cecilie Jedlicka. April 24, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Real estate partners Anthony Longo and his mother Rosemarie Longo of Longo Realty Group, a division of William Raveis, at 257 Bruce Park Ave, where four town homes are being constructed. Photo: Leslie Yager

The rear two units at 257 Bruce Park Ave, a short walk to the train station, Greenwich Avenue and Bruce Park. Photo: Leslie Yager

Downtown Greenwich is undergoing a transformation.

In particular, century old multi-family homes in walking distance to the train, restaurants and shops are giving way to new construction designed to reflect the way people live today.

Mother and son real estate partners Rosemarie and Anthony Longo of Longo Realty Group, a division of William Raveis, are positively rosy about the future of downtown.

“Interest rates are at a two year low,” Rosemarie said during a tour of new construction at 255/257 Bruce Park Ave, where her husband Tony Longo and his partner Mike Jedlicka are building four town homes.

“Interest rates still drive the market,” said Rosemarie, adding that she and Anthony have a combined 25 years of real estate experience. But, beyond interest rates, she said walkability sells.

“It’s .3 miles to the train station,” Anthony said. “It’s a short walk to the restaurants and shopping on Greenwich Avenue, the movie theater, Island Beach Ferry and the amenities of Bruce Park, including tennis courts.”

While the Planning & Zoning commission changed the regulations to limit multi-family dwellings in the R6 zone to two units, the lot at 257 Bruce Park Ave was oversized at a half acre, and the Town approved a subdivision.

That allowed the development to feature a total of four units – two in front and two in back, each with three bedrooms. The front units are 2,400 sq ft and have attached garages. The rear units are slightly larger with 2,600 and 2,700 sq ft respectively, plus garages and elevators.

Rosemarie and Anthony both see downtown Greenwich properties as the bright spot in the current real estate market.

Anthony, who worked for several years as an analyst at a Stamford hedge fund said he was itching to follow his entrepreneurial spirit and has a great working relationship with his mother.

“Nothing is a waste of time,” Rosemarie said of Anthony’s years as an analyst. “He can pull all the information into a spread sheet.”

“Luxury buyers like to analyze, and if you have that type of experience, it converts well,” Anthony said, adding that he creates spreadsheets with comparable interest rates, property taxes, and square footage, and also factors in changing municipal regulations and trends when he works with his clients.

“Luxury buyers are attracted to downtown because it will always have good resale value,” he said.

Anthony and Rosemarie said buyers of town homes in central Greenwich fall broadly into two categories: millennials coming out of New York City and back country empty-nesters seeking to downsize.

“Millennials are attracted to urban living and like a turn-key, easy way of living,” Anthony said.

“They want to pay a common charge that includes snow plowing, lawn care, garbage and grounds maintenance,” Rosemarie added. “They appreciate having a home owners association and exterior insurance from the walls out. Plus they don’t want to spend their weekends doing yard work.”

Rosemarie and Anthony agreed that all those features also attract empty-nesters.

“People downsizing from large back country houses are ready to simplify life,” Anthony said.

“The convenience factor withstands all the ebb and flow of the market,” said Tony who joined the conversation. The family seeks to become a “one stop shop for all things real estate.”

“Even people who know they’ll only be here for three years know their property will resell,” Anthony said.

Celebrating with a drink last December when the deck was installed at 257 Bruce Park Ave, left to right: Rosemarie Longo, Tony Logo, Mike Jedlicka and Anthony Longo. contributed photo

Tony, who grew up around the corner from Bruce Park Ave at 301 Davis Avenue, said he is attached to the neighborhood.

In fact, he said both he and his father were born in the house on Davis Ave.

“My grandparents came from Sicily in the 1920s and rented the house on Davis Ave. In the 1950s they bought it for $17,000, and three years ago I bought it, tore it down and built town houses.”

Rosemarie, whose maiden name is Vitiello, said her parents also came to the US from Italy.

“They landed in the Bronx and made their way to Greenwich and ran DaVinci’s Restaurant on Greenwich Avenue for 40 years,” she said of the restaurant that was a favorite of many longtime Greenwich residents. “That was the original DaVinci’s. There were also DaVinci’s in Glenville and Cos Cob.”

“All of us live here. We all went to Greenwich High School. We all care for the Town,” said Tony of Rosemarie, Anthony and Mike and Cecilie Jedlicka. “We’re not here today and gone tomorrow.”

Tony, a builder who has done custom client work in Greenwich for 35 years, recently merged his company, Longo Construction Management with Mike Jedlicka’s company, Catalyst Construction.

“We’ve done 11 units together in Greenwich – five are completed and six are in progress,” Tony said.

Mike said that like Tony, his family lived on Davis Ave when he was a young boy, but they moved to Glenville before he started kindergarten.

He attended Greenwich Schools, including the “old new Glenville School” on Riversville Road, and graduated from Greenwich High School, where he met and later married his high school sweetheart Cecilie. The Jedlickas now live in Old Greenwich and have have three boys – two at GHS and one at Eastern Middle School.

“This is career 2.0 for me,” Mike said, adding that he has always been interested in construction. “My father owned a plumbing business and I grew up in Greenwich shadowing him on jobs, so I always had an interest in the big picture.”

And even though they had many mutual friends, Tony and Mike, who are ten years apart, didn’t connect until recently.

“Tony built my best friend’s house and did a great job,” Mike said. “I was beginning to unwind my oil career and wanted another investment vehicle. We built our first spec house together we developed a bond. So we formed a partnership and decided to scale it.”

Combined projects of Longo Construction Management and Catalyst Construction that are in progress include the four at Bruce Park Ave and two at 73 Orchard Place.

Longo Construction Management is completing a single family house at 144 Milbank Ave.

The town homes at 257 Bruce Park Ave will be completed in a few months.

More information on Longo Realty Group is available online.

Closed bleachers at Cardinal Field. Photo: Leslie Yager

BOE members left to right: Peter Sherr, Kathleen Stowe, Gaetane Francis, Meghan Olsson, Peter Bernstein, Superintendent Ralph Mayo, Jennifer Dayton and Lauren Rabin. April 25, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

At the Board of Education meeting on Thursday it wasn’t long before the condemned bleachers in GHS Cardinal Field came up, and the question of how and where to hold graduation for the 700+ students and their families.

The bleachers were condemned during April vacation last week.

Per tradition, the graduation ceremony is held outside on the stadium field with the bleachers packed with families.

GHS senior class president James Heavey said the condemned bleachers present a threat to the quality of the current sports seasons and deter community involvement. But also, he said the lack of bleachers will impact graduation.

“Our class has been at GHS for four years and we are reaching our end. This is usually culminated in a massive graduation ceremony,” he said. “It is a huge open air ceremony of epic proportion….We all graduate together. One class – One graduation.”

“My classmates have been completely rattled by the mere idea that we will not be graduating together.” – James Heavey, GHS senior class president

“The bleachers are extremely important to the community at GHS. Every Cardinal at some time has been on those bleachers cheering on one of our many sports teams ranging from the state champion football team to the state champion girls track team. All of these sports teams perform and play directly in front of those bleachers.” – Senior class president James Heavey

“We have been able to field some recommendations,” he said, including having graduation at the beach or renting bleachers to put on the track.

James said there are multiple petitions all with the same goal: “One class – One graduation.”

A petition started by Diane Mays began circulating this week saying that if weather permits, graduation should be outside at Tod’s Point, Binney Park or Roger Sherman Baldwin Park, rather that in the GHS performing arts center which, the petition suggests would require three separate graduation ceremonies.

As of Friday morning the petition’s goal had increased from 1,000 to 1,500 and had 1,005 signatures.

During the public hearing the GHS PTA Presidents and parents urged the BOE to find a way to let the seniors graduate together. “We are asking you to do whatever it takes to make this happen,” said GHS PTA co-president Anne Pfetsch.

GHS PTA co-president Maureen Bonanno recalled years ago being moved to tears as she she drove her young twins down Putnam Ave past GHS graduation, and the meaningfulness of all students graduating in one place, “in their home with their teachers.”

Lisa Cooper acknowledged the petitions for an off site graduation that would keep the class together, but she said she had done research into temporary bleachers and concluded 1,500 could be accommodated on temporary bleachers at a price of $15.28 per person.

“If we can consider the possibility of temporary bleachers on the track, it’s very feasible,” she said.

During his superintendent’s report Ralph Mayo acknowledged that incoming superintendent Dr. Tono Jones was in the audience.

“We have a plan for graduation but that plan has not been approved by various town officials,” Mayo said. “We’re not going to get into it yet. As soon as we get approved, we’ll come back and make it public for everyone, but we’re not going to talk about that until we have a stamp of approval by various town agencies.”

“We do have a plan and hopefully it will be approved, and the kids, parents and all of us up here want the graduation to be on the field  at one time with everyone there. That’s our goal.”– Ralph Mayo, Greenwich Schools interim superintendent

Mayo said GHS interim headmaster Rick Piotrowski and facilities director Dan WAtson have been working on a plan and they deserve all the credit.

Mayo reviewed the “unfortunate turn of events” that led up to the bleachers being closed. In late March/early April the district received a complaint from a parent from a visiting team about the visitors bleachers, “that he was going to go through the bleachers or something was going to go through them.”

“We had the bleachers inspected and repaired,” he said of the visitors bleachers. “That’s when we, along with the building department and risk manager from the Town of Greenwich all took a hard look at the bleachers on the home side. Our consultant, structural engineer, the head of the building department, and risk manager all deemed the bleachers unsafe and needed to be shut down,” he explained.

“I seem to have a facilities problem a month as superintendent,” he joked. “At least this isn’t about water. Yet.”

“We’ve been looking at various options, not just for graduation. We have a whole sports season now and one ahead of us before our scheduled project – if passed by the RTM in May – we begin the tear down of those bleachers in early December,” he said, adding that there are “a couple options” for repairing the home bleachers, but that he did not recommend either of them.

Dan Watson, the head of facilities said the “guesstimates” submitted from a qualified engineer to bring the bleachers up to current code on a temporary, safe basis were “a lot more than I think a lot of people are willing to appreciate. That’s my own opinion, especially when we are moving forward with a brand new stadium.”

Watson held up a photo of one of 11 columns so rusted at the base that he could put his hand through it.

Watson said that when the existing bleachers were built 50 years ago there were no codes. Today there are codes, and the bleachers do not meet them.

A release from the district on April 15 said the bleachers were built to a standard of 60 pounds per square foot. Currently, code requires they hold 100 pounds per square foot.

“Not only do we have to repair a 50 year old structure, but it has to meet current codes,” Watson said of the possibility of repairing the bleachers. “There is an extensive amount of steel work that needs to be done, along with BOE costs including manpower to get the equipment out from underneath, possible storage areas and electrical modifications.”

“It’s pretty extensive but it’s doable. We could have it structurally sound by the start of the fall season.” – Dan Watson, Director of Facilities for Greenwich Schools

Peter Bernstein said the high “guesstimate” was $300,000, and the low was $225,000, but the bleachers still wouldn’t be repaired and up to code in time for graduation.

Jennifer Dayton said, “I want new bleachers and toilets by the fall season, but I also want us to be continuing to develop the site plan – so two parallel tracks.”

BOE chair Peter Bernstein said the administration – Rick Piotrowski , Dan Watson and Ralph Mayo – are working on a proposal.

“I’m hoping it (the proposal) is a heck of a lot less than $225,000,” Bernstein said, referring to the guesstimated minimum cost to repair the bleachers.

During the discussion of whether to repair the bleaches or source temporary ones, Gaetane Francis said she’d like the seniors to be together for graduation. But, she said, “I have a hard time supporting that if I don’t know what it’s going to cost. And if it rains we have to put everyone inside anyway.”

If graduation is held inside the Performing Arts Center, the entire class can’t graduate at the same time. There would have to be multiple ceremonies.

A graduation speaker has yet to be announced by the senior class.

“My motto is not to throw good money after bad,” Mayo said, referring to repairing the 50 year old bleachers. “We’ll get you more information on the rental of bleachers. We’re considering rental bleachers for 1,800 people.”

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property transfers April, 17-24, 2019

35 Winding Lane. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

35 Winding Lane from Miracle Properties LLC to Windinla Lane LLC on April 17, 2019 for $6,850,000

50 Lafayette Place. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

50 Lafayette Place #3E from Minoli LLC to Severn River LLC on April 17, 2019 for $493,500

19 Mansion Place from Michael Chiappini to John Hryckowian on April 17, 2019 for $300,000

62 Sheephill Rd. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

62 Sheephill Rd from Irene Scheck to Jeffery Scheck on April 22, 2019 for $750,000

9 River Rd Unit 406. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

9 River Rd Unit 406 from Karen Abraham to Marcin Zola on April 22, 2019 for $494,000

52 Stirrup Lane. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

52 Stirrup Lane from Barbara Perry to Barry Huang on April 23, 2019 for $765,000

25 West Elm Street. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

25 West Elm Street Unit 24 from Bruce and Elaine Kantor to Alyx Goldstein on April 23, 2019 for $425,000

33 Windy Knolls. Photo courtesy of Michael Dinneen of Lockwood and Mead.

33 Windy Knolls Unit A from HSB Bank USA, National Association to Daniel Luiz Da Silva on April 24, 2019 for $419,000

See also:

Town Homes in Downtown Are Bright Spot in Greenwich Real Estate

HOUSE OF THE WEEK: Sun-Filled Center Hall Colonial 

Round Hill Association To Host Forum on Back Country Real Estate  

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 15-16, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 12-15, 2019

HOUSE OF THE WEEK: AVENUE TERRACE – 6 Brand New Luxury Townhomes Steps from Greenwich Avenue and Metro North Railroad

All are invited to attend the Greenwich Democrats 1st Annual Awards Celebration on Sunday, April 28, 2019. This inaugural event will honor the lifetime achievements of two amazing ladies, Nancy Brown and Mary McNamee and their many years of service to the Greenwich Community.

US Congressman Jim Himes will be on hand to join in the festivities and to help kick-off the event, as will US Senator Richard Blumenthal, Governor Ned Lamont and Lt Governor Susan Bysiewicz.

“Greenwich Democrats have much to celebrate” states Tony Turner, Greenwich Democratic Town Committee Chairman. “We are so please to be honoring Nancy and Mary. Their dedication to our community is extraordinary. They led with integrity and a moral compass that exemplifies our values during a time when it was not easy to be a democrat in Greenwich.”

A life-long resident, Mary McNamee was an active member of the Greenwich Democratic Town Committee for 52 years. During her tenure, she served in numerous leadership positions locally and represented the DTC on the State Central Committee. She also served on the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) for 36 years and is currently on the Board of Assessment Appeals, a position she has held for 26 years. Mary’s volunteer worked was not limited to the Town. She served on the Parish Council for St. Mary Church and is a member of the Greenwich Hibernian Association. Mary currently volunteers for Meals on Wheels, the Red Cross Blood Drive, and the Women’s Club of Greenwich.

Nancy Brown is a champion for civil rights and economic justice in our community.

She married David Brown in 1955 and they “temporarily” moved to Greenwich where his family had live for 3 generations and where she is still a resident. In 1969 she helped create the Southern Fairfield County Urban League as a founding member. In 1975, she was appointed to the Greenwich Housing Authority where she helped to shepherd the newly established federal Community Development Block Grant Program through the RTM, where she had also served for 4 years. In 1979, she was appointed as the Director of Community Development for the Town of Greenwich, a position she held until 2007, managing $1M annually in block grants. She was the first African American to serve on the DTC and was a founding member of the Fairfield Community Foundation. She also served on the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority for nine years. In 2009, she ably led the Town’s Affordable Housing Committee.

“I am very fortunate to have worked along-side these two incredible women,” said Elizabeth Mills, co-chair of the event. “I admire their strength and spirit.”

In addition to the lifetime achievement awards, the DTC will also announce annual award winners. “We have such talented people working with our organization” states Turner. “This awards ceremony is our way of thanking those who share in our vision of liberty and justice for all and were instrumental in our successes this year. We hope you will join us.”

The Awards Celebration will be held at the Hyatt Regency, 1800 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich from 12:00 noon to 2:00pm.

Tickets are available at www.greenwichdemocrats.org. Registration deadline is Friday, April 19, 2019. For more information contact Denise Savageau, event co-chair, at dmsavageau@msn.com or 203-622-9297.

A passerby admires the artwork of Beatrice J Drouhin during Art to the Ave, May 4, 2017 Photo: Leslie Yager

Opening night of the 22nd annual Art to The Ave festival is set for Thursday, May 2 from 5:30pm to 8:00pm.

The festival is collaboration of local stores in the Greenwich Avenue area and local artists, made possible by the Greenwich Arts Council.

Each May, with the overwhelming support of the Greenwich business community, the Arts Council turns Greenwich Avenue into a strolling gallery. 

The evening launches a truly spectacular show as musicians and street performers fill the street entertaining strollers. 

Most stores host receptions for the hundreds of visitors who attend to preview the work of over 120 artists. The artworks selected by the retailers remains in place through Memorial Day, so there is ample time for viewers to experience the “gallery” that downtown Greenwich becomes. 

All the art on display is for sale.

New this year, all are invited to an after party to be held at the Greenwich Arts Council the night of May 2 from 7:30 to 9:00pm.

This is a special reception with music by YURI JUAREZ, an international music ensemble, blending Classical, Jazz, Flamenco, Brazilian, Tango and Afro-Peruvian music influences.

Greenwich High School bands played outside the Arts Council. May 4, 2017. Photo: Leslie Yager

Scotty, aka My Balloon Guy, was prepared to entertain children outside Bank of America. May 4, 2017 Photo: Leslie Yager