Photo: GYFL website

Registration is open for the GYFL 2019 season.

GYFL, a non profit youth football organization for boys and girls in grades 3 through 8,  has three divisions. The Bantam League is for 8- and 9-year old’s. Juniors are 10-11. Seniors start at age 12.

The league has over 90 volunteer coaches who offer lessons in sportsmanship, and players enjoy the sense of camaraderie and source of lifelong friendships.

The league is unique in that players don’t have to leave town for their games. The league holds its games at Greenwich High School on Sundays.

Photo: GYFL website

The GYFL provides a structured, safe and secure environment. League president James Loughran said GYFL is now a modified football league.

“The GYFL has modified from traditional football leagues with certain rule changes and policies including: 9 man football at the Bantam level, no live special team plays, weight restrictions by positions, all teams make the playoffs and regulated practices to minimize contact and emphasis skill development,” Loughran said.

GYFL has changed their practices, technique and the game itself in response to concerns about concussions.

As longtime youth football enthusiast and Mavericks coach Dr. Russell Warren put it, “There are plenty of people and media outlets passionate about criticizing youth tackle football. We’re passionate about promoting it.”

The season opens on Aug 19, 2019. The last game of the season, championship day, is Nov 10, 2019. (Columbus Day weekend is a bye weekend with no games.)

The league was established over 50 years ago and has many traditions including the annual “Senior Bowl” where 8th graders who play in the league are divided into two teams and play an additional game.

The players also attend the annual GYCL cheer Expo at Greenwich High School.

John Marinelli meets with GYFL football players. Contributed: GYFL Renee Murphy

The league serves as a pipeline for high school football players and the Cardinals players and coaches find ways to include the GYFL players in events and clinics.  Cardinals coach John Marinelli has particularly embraced GYFL, making several visits to their practices and holding clinics for the coaches.

On Sunday, May 19, at the Boys & Girls Club (4 Horseneck Lane) there will be a free youth clinic led by High School players and staff, with a Parent Symposium educating new parents about the GYFL.

Then, at 5:00pm there will be a ring ceremony for the State Champs.

Coach Marinelli said he is looking forward to the Ring Ceremony and Youth Clinic.

“We felt the support from our town was so overwhelming that we wanted to give back in some way,” Marinelli said. “As a ‘Community Program’ giving back to the community and celebrating our success with everyone is what our kids wanted to do, and I’m a proud coach to hear that our boys wanted to do this as their way of saying thank you to Greenwich.”

“Greenwich Cardinals are born here.” – GYFL

At the annual Greenwich Youth Cheerleading League cheer expo at Greenwich High School, GYFL has a tradition of presenting flowers to the cheerleaders. Credit: Leslie Yager

1970’s North Mianus Cowboys youth football team photo

On Monday night at a forum against tolls in CT organized by State Reps Livvy Floren and Fred Camillo, featured speakers were State Rep Laura Devlin (R-134) and State Senator Henri Martin (R-31) of the Transportation Committee.

An audience of about 75 people attended despite the rain and conflict with the RTM meeting.

Since February State Rep Devlin said there have been 21 forums across the state. Greenwich was the last.

By a show of hands, about 20 people indicated they favored tolls and about 40 people indicated they were against tolls. A few people said they were unsure.

Devlin and Martin said the Republicans alternative to tolls is a plan called Prioritize Progress.

Prioritize Progress assumes money collected through tolls can be diverted for other needs before it enters the state’s transportation fund (STF) and transportation dollars would also get used for DMV labor costs, fringe benefits and other administrative expenses, leaving less for infrastructure.

“Tolls are an easy and lazy way to promise a solution to the state’s transportation issues without looking at the realities we face.” – Prioritize Progress PowerPoint

Governor Lamont arrived during the forum and introduced himself.

“I’ll give you a little bit of good news,” he said. “We disagree on a lot of things up in Hartford. One thing that Republicans and Democrats both agree on is how incredibly important it is that we fix our broken transportation system.”

Lamont said he had talked to every business leader in Connecticut.

“Every leader has said this is something you’ve got to do. You’ve got to speed up I95. You’ve got to fix Metro-North,” he said.

Lamont said the Fairfield County Business Council members strongly support tolls.

“Prioritize Progress says we need an additional $700 million a year to fix the roads and 90-year-old bridges that are slowing things up,” he said.

“The biggest difference up in Hartford is that Prioritize Progress says we’re going to  put it on the credit card and borrow that money, $700 million a year, 100% paid for by Connecticut residents, plus interest.”

“I know the alternative doesn’t make anybody happy, which is why you’re all here. But the alternative is a user fee by the folks who use the road to pay for it, and 40% of it would be paid for by out-of-staters.”

Lamont said the state’s transportation system must be fixed. “Take it off the balance sheet and off the backs of tax payers,” he said.

“Thank you for the opportunity,” he said. “I didn’t mean to interrupt your party.”

Devlin said back in January she and members of the Republican caucus sent out a survey asking, ‘Can you afford 82 tolls?’

“Granted this isn’t a scientific survey. Being Republican sure it could be slanted,” she said. “But over 11,000 responses from our caucus members showed 90% said no and 10% said yes.”

Some of the responses as to why included: ‘Tolls are going to push traffic onto our local roads and create a safety concern.’

“But we also heard, ‘Listen, it’s time for us to get on board. I pay tolls from Florida to Maine. Why are we the only state not collecting tolls?'”

“We also heard, ‘I’m going to get taxed going to and from work.’ And that, ‘Governor Lamont has created a common enemy,” she said. “We heard, tolls are fine, but just on borders. We heard, ‘We pay enough fees and taxes already.’ We also heard, ‘Tolls are okay but just not so many.'”

“We also heard, ‘Do what the heck you want because I’m out of here,'” she said.

Devlin said the STF was formally created in 1984 after the Mianus Bridge collapsed.

“The gas tax was 14¢ at the time. It was agreed that the gas tax would go into this fund and would increase one cent a year up to 21¢. The state was able to get good rates on its bonds….Everything was moving along swimmingly until 1987 when the general fund fell into deficit.”

Devlin said beginning in 1987 money was diverted from the STF and expenses were moved into it. She warned that would happen again with money raised from tolls.

In 1987, “They said the transportation fund has a lot of money so let’s move all of the operating expenses for the Dept of Transportation out of the general fund and put it into the STF because it is transportation related.”

She said that in 1989 the pattern repeated and the state moved the pension and fringe benefits costs of DOT employees to the STF.

“That solved everything,” she said.

However, in 1991, she said the general fund was in deficit so the decision was made to move both operating expenses and pensions and fringe costs for all DMV employees out of the general fund and into the STF.

“But at this point alarm bells went off because it put the STF in jeopardy, and in deficit,” she said. “The gas tax skyrocketed, going up 36¢ a gallon, it was to cover these costs.”

“Around 2000 the decision was made to lower the gas tax to 25¢ and it’s been frozen since then,” Devlin said, adding that that revenue will remain steady.

“We keep hearing a crisis about the gas tax drying up and going away,” she said. “No such thing. It’s steady if not higher now than in 2005.”

She said the STF’s purpose is to pay off the debt service on bonds issued for 20-year infrastructure projects.

That said, she warned that the fastest growing expenses are subsidies and pensions & fringe costs.

“They were $19 million a couple years ago and are now almost $200 million, and are projected to grow exponentially,” she said.

Devlin said the federal government would not sign off on truck-only tolls, out-of-state-vehicles-only tolls, or border tolls, but that tolling cars and trucks could be approved if the state implements congestion pricing.

“Congestion pricing is designed to encourage off peak travel. You may not consider these discretionary trips but they want you to reduce them. That might be a medical appointment, visiting a friend of family member, going out for a meal. It’s intended to divert commuters to other routes. So, take a bus, ride train, ride a bike, but get off the road during those times,” she said.

Congestion pricing works by implementing higher rates during peak hours which are from 6am to 9am and 4pm to 7pm.

Devlin said tolls studies say that 60% of toll revenue would come from Connecticut residents and 40% from out of state drivers, and that would amount to $645 million from residents.

And whereas Lamont said Prioritize Progress would put $700 million “on a credit card,” the PowerPoint presentation said, “If we want a dedicated stream of funding that is truly limited to infrastructure improvements, the only way to do that is through bonding within the state’s new bonding cap which is the current way the state funds transportation projects.”

And while Lamont calls the tolls a user fee, the Republicans say that tolls are a tax that will disproportionately hit the middle class.

  Cushman & Wakefield announced on Monday that the firm has been appointed by the owners of the Homestead Inn in Greenwich to seek an investment partner.

“Homestead Inn is an exquisite property within Greenwich’s prominent Belle Haven – Field Point Circle peninsula. The formation of a future partnership with ownership presents a fortuitous opportunity to invest in an iconic property which has always been a Greenwich touchstone,” said Al Mirin, Executive Managing Director, Cushman & Wakefield.

Homestead Inn is an 18-room luxury boutique hotel comprised of four buildings totaling 17,810+/- sq ft poised on a 2.75 acre site.

It was originally called the Augustus Mead House, having been built by Mead in 1790. The Hotel also boasts Thomas Henkelmann’s renowned classic 120-seat French restaurant, a four-star New York Times rated restaurant well known for its chef, Thomas Henkelmann.

The Hotel is set on the Connecticut coast in the exclusive Belle Haven residential neighborhood, with the refined dining and shopping of Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich’s Metro North train station and Interstate 95 all less than one mile away.

“Homestead Inn has established its status and heritage as a gateway to New England, and we look forward to maintaining this history while we pursue a partnership to evolve our path forward into the future,” said Theresa Carroll, co-owner of Homestead Inn.

This gracious Hotel is an 18th-century mansion turned country-style retreat and is set among lush, well-manicured gardens and specimen trees. Homestead Inn is an 18-year member of the Relais & Chateaux association, a global fellowship of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants and is designated as an Andrew Harper Premier Property and is featured in the Kiwi Collection.

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

OPEN HOUSE:
Sunday, May 19, 2019
2:30pm-4:00pm

55 Burning Tree Road
Greenwich, CT 06830

Listed at: $1,699,999
Greenwich MLS #105169

Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 4 Full, 1 Half Bath
Garage: 2 Car Attached
Fireplace: 1
Acres: 2.23
Sq ft: 3,758
Built in 1960, Renovated in 2012

Listed  by: Stefanie Lacoff
Houlihan Lawrence
Tel: (203) 536-9403
Email: SLacoff@HoulihanLawrence.com

Don’t miss this updated 4,000 sq ft Colonial on a private mid-country cul-de-sac in a lovely walkable neighborhood.

Move right into this 21st century 5/6 bedroom home with modern and elegant amenities, beautiful hardwood floors throughout.

French doors open to an expansive deck, bay windows, marble fireplace, a new gourmet kitchen with 8′ marble center isle, dining area, family room and powder room complete the first floor.

The second floor includes a generous master suite with his/her custom dressing rooms; office/nursery and two additional bedrooms. Private guest wing with ensuite bathrooom. Recreation room and additional bedroom suite on the lower level.

Parkway Elementary and Central Middle schools. Possible pool site. Priced to sell!

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

55 Burning Tree Road, Greenwich

Stefanie Lacoff is a member of the National Association of Realtors, Connecticut Association of Realtors, Greenwich Association of Realtors, Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Connecticut Multiple Listing Service.

Contact Stefanie with questions or to schedule a private tour at (203) 536-9403 or email SLacoff@HoulihanLawrence.com

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South, Greenwich, CT 06830

OPEN HOUSE:
Sunday, May 19, 2019
12:30pm to 2:00pm

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South
Greenwich, CT 06830

Listed at: 2,495,000
Greenwich MLS #95465

Bedrooms: 2
Baths: 2 Full, 1 Half Bath
Garage: Underground, 2 spaces
Sq ft: 2,088

Listed  by: Stefanie Lacoff
Houlihan Lawrence
Tel: (203) 536-9403
Email: SLacoff@HoulihanLawrence.com

Downtown Greenwich’s finest quality new construction residence, Beacon Hill 2, reflects a sense of modern living that’s as impressive as its location.

This new luxury community offers a lifestyle unique to Greenwich complete with concierge, fitness center and only steps from Greenwich Avenue shops, restaurants, theaters and Metro North Train station.

Every residence features one level living, open floor-plans and light filled entertaining spaces with fabulous Long Island Sound views and private terraces.

Three Bedroom with private rooftop terrace also available.

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

62-68 Sound View Drive, 2-South

Stefanie Lacoff is a member of the National Association of Realtors, Connecticut Association of Realtors, Greenwich Association of Realtors, Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Connecticut Multiple Listing Service.

Contact Stefanie with questions or to schedule a private tour at (203) 536-9403 or email SLacoff@HoulihanLawrence.com

To inquire about running a House of the Week feature contact Leslie.Yager@gmail.com

Exterior with heated pool at 4 Laurel Lane Spur

4 Laurel Lane Spur
Greenwich, CT 06830

OPEN HOUSE:
Sunday May 19, 2019
1:00pm to 3:00pm

Improved Price: $2,799,000
GreenwichMLS #105275

5 Bedrooms
4 Full Baths
Single Family
Built in 1972; Renovated in 2018

Listed by: Katherine Donnelly
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Tel. (203) 536-3267
Email: Katherine@kdonnellyrealty.com

This mid-country Georgian Colonial offers sophisticated luxury, with rooms washed in sunlight. There are five bedrooms, four baths, and two powder rooms. There are also two fireplaces and a four car attached garage.

The home has a brick exterior and a wood shingle roof, and is located on a serene cul-de-sac. The 3.42 acre setting allows for quiet enjoyment of nature.

Located south of the Merritt Parkway, Laurel Lane Spur is just minutes from downtown Greenwich, the commuter train, I95 and shopping.

Step inside the double height grand foyer and take in the quality and character that are evident in every interior detail.

There are high ceilings and hand carved moldings, custom walnut inlaid floors, custom built-ins and a back staircase. There is a lot to love in this 7,918 square foot home. All square footage is above ground.

There is a professional grade kitchen with butler’s pantry, walk-in pantry, and a laundry room with a sink. The kitchen features a Viking double oven with a warming drawer and two Bosch dishwashers.

The grand sized rooms feature oversized windows in rooms including a floor to ceiling bow window with built-in corner cabinets in the dining room.

The luxurious master suite is situated on the first floor and has an adjoining expansive spa with custom built-ins, soaking tub, full shower with bench, double vanity, make-up area and water closet.

There is an elegant recessed staircase to the second level with four double bedrooms, two full baths, and plenty of walk-in closets, as well as double and single closets. The second level foyer also has an oversized storage closet as well as two full walk-in attics to round out the abundant storage.

The fully finished “walk-out” lower level has the same quality finishes as the first floor public rooms. You will be pleased with the lower level second family room with fireplace, game room, gym, office, bonus room and custom bar with counter.

This home has plenty to celebrate with both indoor and exterior areas including an Ipe deck off the kitchen and a blue stone terrace directly off the lower level via three sliding glass doors.

Greenwich offers low real estate taxes, and is known as a safe place to live. The Town offers an ideal lifestyle that make many happy to call this 50 square mile community their home.

This home is districted for North Street Elementary School, Central Middle School and Greenwich High School. There are also several private schools to choose from.

There are a number of public and private country clubs with golf courses, yacht clubs, equestrian trails, four public libraries, beaches including Greenwich Point, and of course the wonderful Bruce Museum with its new playground. There are abundant public tennis courts and ballfields which offer hours of enjoyment to our residents.

Double height Grand Foyer at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Full finished lower level with a 2nd family room at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Professional kitchen with oversized windows and built-ins at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Dining Room at at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Dining Room at at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Living room at at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Master Bedroom with Cove Lighting at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Master spa at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Katherine Donnelly is a Global Luxury Specialist at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and has been serving the Greenwich real estate market since 2004, winning various awards including membership in Coldwell Banker’s International Presidents Circle as she was ranked within the top 6% of all sales agents.

As a long time Greenwich resident, she loves to share her market knowledge and the amenities of this special community with others so that they may also experience a wonderful lifestyle.

Katherine may be reached with questions or to schedule a private tour at (203) 536-3267 or Katherine@kdonnellyrealty.com

29 Sheephill Road
Riverside, CT 06878

Listed at: $835,000

OPEN HOUSE:
Saturday, May 18
1:00pm – 3:00pm

Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 2.1
Sq ft: 2,144

Listed by: Katherine Donnelly
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Tel. (203) 536-3267
Email: Katherine@kdonnellyrealty.com

Lovely Riverside home with low annual real estate taxes (less than $7,300) on an expansive .66 level acres with room for expansion, should you desire. Currently, it is a comfortable 2,144 square feet.

This home offers three bedrooms, 2.1 Baths, 1 Fireplace with a deck overlooking the back garden.

This prime location is near all amenities including Greenwich Beach where many residents enjoy a variety of activities.

This home, washed in natural light with a brick front exterior offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, one powder room and a wood-burning fireplace as well as a walk-out lower level. The Eat-In kitchen leads to the deck. The living room is appointed with hardwood floors and wooden shutters as is the dining room with a wood-burning fireplace. The powder room is smartly appointed with white oversized tile.

The Master Suite is on the 1st floor with two walk-in closets has a custom built-in wardrobe closets and dressers as well as a sitting area. The Master Bath has a shower and vanity with white subway tile.

The fully finished walk-out lower level has space for an office area or gym, with a 2nd family room and Two (2) bedrooms.

This home offers many options, perhaps for downsizers who are open to one level living with a first floor bedroom, a condo alternative without the expense of common charges or for those who may want to live in this home as is, it offers charm, location and should the future call for expansion, the .66 acres provides for the potential to build up or expand to the back garden consistent with zoning regulations.

Kayak racks at Greenwich Point.

Greenwich Beach is open to the public all 12 months of the year, dawn to dusk with a variety of water activities such as kayaking, water skiing, or boating. Sailing lessons are available during the summer season as are summer camps that take advantage of the Seaside Museum. Bicycle riding, roller blading are activities enjoyed by many. The 2-1/2 mile walking perimeter, some of which overlooks the Sound is frequently and daily used by all ages; whether walking with children in strollers to senior citizens. Fishermen seem to have good luck catching their dinner. There are barbeques on site to wile away pleasant afternoons and enjoy a picnic. Benches along the walking perimeter provide an opportunity to take a rest or enjoy sunsets.

Riverside is part of Greenwich, CT and is a bedroom community to Old Greenwich.

This home is located within minutes to the commuter train, as well as both the Village of Old Greenwich and Greenwich Proper with many restaurants and shopping. For those with an active lifestyle, the shops are a bike ride away. There are four town owned tennis courts on Lockwood Road in Riverside.

Additional tennis courts may be had at the Civic Center or Binney Park in Old Greenwich. The latter two, also offer ball parks and a playground as well as outdoor tennis courts. The Civic Center has an in-door basketball court and offers scheduled roller skating as well as miniature train shows, plant sells sponsored by the Old Greenwich Garden Club, consignment sales for children’s toys and gently used clothes.

Katherine Donnelly is a Previews Specialist at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and has been serving the Greenwich real estate market since 2004, winning various awards including membership in Coldwell Banker’s International Presidents Circle as she was ranked within the top 6% of all sales agents.

As a long time Greenwich resident, she loves to share her market knowledge and the amenities of this special community with others so that they may also experience a wonderful lifestyle.

Katherine may be reached with questions or to schedule a private tour at (203) 536-3267 or Katherine@kdonnellyrealty.com

Old Greenwich Yacht Club at Greenwich Point.

On Tuesday the owners of Famous Greek Kitchen in Byram went before the Planning & Zoning Commission with a request for approval for covered seasonal outdoor dining with 20 seats. They also want to create five additional parking spaces and offer valet parking.

The restaurant has previously offered outside dining but did not have the Town’s permission.

The restaurant has ceased to offer outdoor dining while the application is under review. The patio cover is in place but the seating has been removed.

The restaurant is located at 10 North Water St, but the applicants also own  the house next door at 14 North Water and the property across the street at 13 North Water, where Greenview Pharmacy operates.

Specifically the applicants seek to swap seating for 20 people inside the restaurant beginning at 5:00pm in exchange for the 20 outdoor seats. That would leave seating for 80 inside. Attorney Tom Heagney said the restaurant has a back room with 20 seats that can be roped off.

The commissioners noted that the request would result in greater parking non-conformity, and while there is a municipal lot  across the street from Famous Greek Kitchen, that cannot count toward restaurant parking requirement.

The applicant does own the parking lot on the other side of the pharmacy building and widened it so it is two-way. They use that parking for the restaurant when the pharmacy is closed.

However, there was confusion about what time the pharmacy closes because the website says 9:00am to 7:00pm on Monday to Friday but the chef/owner, Stavros Karipides, said the hours are 10:00am to 5:00pm.

Mr. Karipides said his family lives in the apartment over the pharmacy and does not have a car.

“The fact that your parents are there now – they may decide to live in Florida some day,” said P&Z chair Margarita Alban said, adding, “Coffee shop people came in and said there is nowhere to park.”

The Famous Greek Kitchen has ceased using the outdoor seating area on North Water Street for the time being.

Mr. Karipides said people park in the free municipal lot and walk to Port Chester. Indeed on the other side of the state line drivers have to use a kiosk to pre-pay for parking.

The commissioners said they were sympathetic, and would like to see more outdoor dining in Greenwich.

“We’re trying to hep Byram,” commissioner Dennis Yeskey said. “Restaurants come and go. …We want to see the area blossom.”

“This is a family that does not come and go,” Mr. Heagney said.

The popular restaurant, which was originally Famous Pizza and Souvlaki, has operated on North Water Street for over three decades.

The application was left open because because of the questions about parking and other complications.

The Health Department wants the applicant to come in for approval. Mr. Heagney said he’d spoken to Michael Long, the Director of Environmental Service for the Health Dept earlier in the day.

“Mr. Long said they way to make sure that with the additional seating there is adequate refrigeration and that the fire marshal has accepted it,” he said.

Ms. Alban said the zoning enforcement officer noted the patio does not comply with setbacks.

“We’re here to correct an existing condition,” Heagney replied.

Commissioner Macri said the sewer department had questions about grease traps.

“You installed one but the Sewer Division hadn’t signed off,” Ms. Alban said.

As for the parking, the commissioners said the restaurant is underparked and the proposal would result in it being even more non-conforming.

However, Mr. Heagney said the proposal would not increase the non-conformity.

Lucy von Brachel of District 4 said neighbors have concerns about parking, though she said the restaurant is great.

The application was left open.

The applicant also own 14 North Water Street next to their Famous Greek Kitchen.

Up to the minute Greenwich property transfers, May 9 to 14, 2019

365 Round Hill Road from Estate of Joan Ingersol to 365 Round Hill Road LLC on May 9, 2019 for $1,146,500

34 Hettiefred Rd

34 Hettiefred Rd from Alberto Ferrer to Kristin Reilly on May 9, 2019 for $1,485,000

23 Connecticut Ave

23 Connecticut Ave from TCP Realty LLC to Klausenrennen LLC on May 13, 2019 for $2,475,000

19 Sunshine Ave from Sergey Kosyakov and Irina Kosyakov to Vikas Gupta on May 13, 2109 for $760,000

129 Havemeyer Place

129 Havemeyer Place from Stephen Scott Roth and Melissa Longoria Roth to John G Crotty on May 13, 2019 for $3,300,000

51 Sheephill Rd from 51 Sheephill LLC to Adam Mariucci on May 13, 2019 for $2,225,000

17 Putnam Park from William and Alvera Farrell to Kevin Coyne on May 14, 2019 for $480,000

56 Sherwood Place Unit #9 from Lysa Flanz Ginsbert to Brittany Callaghan on May 14, 2019 for $945,000

See also:

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, May 2-8, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, May 1-2, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 30 – May 1, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 24-29, 2019

Back Country Real Estate Talk Packs Round Hill Community Center

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

Town Homes in Downtown Are Bright Spot in Greenwich Real Estate

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

On Friday, the Connecticut State Senate passed Senate Bill 3, “An Act Combating Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment.”

Also referred to as the “Time’s Up” bill, this legislation increases certain sexual harassment penalties, extends the time limits people have to file lawsuits for sexual assault, allows more time for criminal prosecution of sexual assault, and requires more employer-sponsored sexual harassment training.

The bill passed the Senate on a unanimous and bipartisan 35-0 vote and now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.

“Today we’ve taken an important step toward achieving a more safe and equitable state,” said State Senator Alex Bergstein (D-Greenwich). “This bill recognizes that victims of sexual assault have many reasons for not coming forward right away – including shame, trauma and fear.  I’m proud to be part of this effort to achieve justice for victims of sexual assault and to prevent these crimes altogether.”

Statutes of Limitations for Criminal Cases of Sexual Assault

Compared to other states and the District of Columbia, Connecticut’s statute of limitations for rape of an adult — five years — is one of the shortest in the country. Forty-five states and the District of Columbia have no statute of limitations for rape or a limit longer than Connecticut’s.

Senate Bill 3 would extend the existing statute of limitations for sexual assault crimes from five years to 20 years for Class B, C, and D felony sexual assault (e.g., forced rape, rape by drugs, forced sexual contact). For a non-felony (e.g. unwanted sexual contact, and other class A misdemeanors), the statute of limitations would extend from one year to 10 years. In each of these cases, if the victim is 18, 19, or 20, the statute of limitations is 30 years following the victim’s 21^st birthday, effectively the victim’s 51^st birthday.

Statutes of Limitations for Civil Cases of Sexual Assault

In addition, Senate Bill 3 makes changes to the statute of limitations for civil cases of sexual assault. Currently the statute of limitations for a victim under 18 is the victim’s 48^th birthday. Under the bill, the statute of limitations for a victim under 21 is the victim’s 51^st birthday. This is a significant change for those victims aged 18, 19, and 20 who currently must bring claims within the default statute of limitations for torts, which is 3 years.

Workplace Discrimination and Sexual Harassment

Currently, employers with only 50 or more employees are required to provide at least two hours of training on sexual harassment to supervisory employees within six months of their employment. Senate Bill 3 requires employers with three or more employees to provide training to all employees, not just supervisors. The bill requires the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities to make training materials available online. Employers may then use these resources to comply with the training requirement.

At the St. Lawrence Club in Cos Cob, Republican Heather Smeriglio announced her intention to run for Tax Collector for the Town of Greenwich. The election is on Nov 5, 2019. Photo: Leslie Yager

Bea Walko, Heather Smeriglio and Anita Valenti at the St. Lawrencen Society. May 16, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Republican Heather Smeriglio announced this week she seeks the RTC’s endorsement in July to run against Democratic incumbent Howard Richman in the race for Tax Collector. The election in on November 5, 2019.

Smeriglio worked in the Tax Collector’s office under Tod Laudonia for four years beginning in 2013.

But, as she explained on Thursday night at the St. Lawrence Club during a well attended kick-off party, when the department’s budget was cut, her time in that office came to an end.

“It was last one in, so I was the first one out,” she explained. “The BET cut the budget for tax collector and I was out.”

Since then, Smeriglio has been working in the Parking Services Department as a clerk.

Prior to joining the tax collector’s office, she worked in banking for 33 years, working her way up from teller to VP/branch manager, working at many different banks around town.

Tod Laudonia, the former Tax Collector gave Heather Smeriglio a resounding endorsement at the St. Lawrence Club on Thursday night. May 16, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Former Tax Collector, Republican, Tod Laudonia, who lost by a narrow margin to Mr. Richman in November 2017, gave Smeriglio his resounding endorsement. He said he had approached Smeriglio about eight years earlier about working in his office.

At that point I told her, “Do what you have to do because one day you will be tax collector,” he said. “She is probably one of the most qualified candidates for tax collector that’s ever run for office.”

Laudonia said Smeriglio’s banking experience, combined with the two years of courses she took to become a certified municipal tax collector, make her uniquely qualified.

“As she stands here, she is one of three people in the Town of Greenwich who are certified to be tax collector. She’s one. I’m one. And there is one other – but it is not the tax collector,” Laudonia said, referring to Richman.

Mr. Richman has completed three of the four required courses to become certified, though the certification is not a requirement for the job.

“Heather has the people skills and a great personality. She listens to people. That’s what the key in the whole office is,” he said. “Everyone thinks of Greenwich in one way until they live here and find out what a diverse group of people we are.”

Laudonia said residents who come to the tax collector want to be listened to.

“Everybody just wants you to hear their story and believe what they’re saying. Everyone is very sincere,” he said. “People in the tax collector’s office deal with tax payers usually at the worst point in their lives. They are in a situation they never dreamed they’d be in. A person like Heather will listen to them and help them.”

On his part, Mr. Richman announced he intends to run for a second term back in January. In March he mailed about 100 letters to property owners who are delinquent to the tune of roughly $5 million.

Individual property owners who received letters each owe between $25,000 and $400,000.

“If we don’t hear from them by March 15^th we have the opportunity to take action,” Richman told GFP back in March. For tax payers who do not pay on time, interest accrues at 1.5% a month which equals 18% a year.

The ability to hold the tax sale is spelled out in CT General statutes section 12-155.

Richman said he hoped the letters would result in residents settling their tax bills. If there were to be a tax sale, the properties would be posted and bids made in an auction.

Asked about Richman’s potential tax sale, Smeriglio replied, “I’m not really sure if it’s necessary,” adding simply, “I look forward to working with the Town and BET.”

In her remarks to the crowd at St. Lawrence Club, Smeriglio said it took her several weeks to decide to run.

She said recently during Saturday errands in town with her husband John she told him she was waiting for clear instruction from God.

Just then she spotted a car with bumper stickers supporting Fred Camillo and Tod Laudonia.

“I remember turning to my husband and saying, ‘That’s a Republican in that car.'”

“So as we pulled up to the traffic light I turned and looked, and there was Linda Moshier and Irene Dietrich. I waved happily and said, ‘There’s my sign from God.’ That was the first of several signs he gave me. First and foremost, I want to thank him and give him all the glory for this chance to serve my town.”

Smeriglio said she and her husband are third generation Greenwich residents. She grew up in Byram and has also lived in Chickahominy and Cos Cob.

The couple raised five children in Greenwich.

“Our two oldest boys have had the honor and privilege of serving in the Marine Corps. One is in currently deployed and serving in Spain,” she said to applause.

“In closing,” she said. “I would like to borrow the motto of my former high school, St. Mary’s, which I hold dear to my heart: Service above self.”

An in-depth investigative study by Better Business Bureau finds that fraudulent consumer goods are ubiquitous, difficult to tell apart from the legitimate products they are counterfeiting, and stem from a large network of organized criminals and credit card processing mechanisms that are willing to support them.

Research shows that eight in 10 Americans shop online, and the dominance of online retail means nearly anything can be bought online, sometimes at discounts that seem too good to be true. However, nearly anything available online can be counterfeited, and research also shows that one in four people have bought something online that turned out to be counterfeit.

The investigative study –“Fakes Are Not Fashionable: A BBB Study of the Epidemic of Counterfeit Goods Sold Online” – looks at the prevalence of counterfeit consumer goods and the criminal systems that circulate them. It digs into the scope of the problem, who is behind it, the multi-pronged fight to stop it and the steps consumers can take to avoid it.

The risk of encountering counterfeit goods can affect any online shopper. These goods range from brand-name sunglasses and handbags to golf clubs and consumer electronics, as well as many other kinds of products. BBB’s report finds that any shippable item with a reputation for quality and sizable markup is a candidate for counterfeiting. While counterfeit goods often are reputed to be deeply discounted, in reality, counterfeit sellers regularly use selling prices that are close to the price of the real product, so the prices offered are no longer a signal that the product is counterfeit.

“In Connecticut we see a wide variety of complaints about counterfeit products, it doesn’t just affect women trying to purchase high-end purses and sunglasses. There are many submissions from men who tried to purchase sports jerseys and sneakers at a discount but received counterfeit or poor quality items,” said Luke Frey, Associate Director of Communication, BBB Serving Connecticut. “There were also a few submissions about consumers purchasing counterfeit vaporizers (e-cigarettes) that are popular and celebrity endorsed.”

The cost of counterfeiting affects not only consumers who lose money by receiving products not as advertised, but also the broader U.S. economy. BBB’s report finds that counterfeiting and intellectual property piracy cost the US economy $200-$250 billion and 750,000 jobs annually.

In the last three years, BBB has received more than 2,000 complaints and more than 500 Scam Tracker reports from people who have shopped for goods online and received counterfeits instead of what they ordered. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) processed 2,249 complaints about counterfeit goods (including pirated goods) in 2018, while the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) processed 552 complaints representing a total financial loss of more than $752,000. That being said, many victims do not file complaints, making it difficult to get a firm grasp on how often people pay for goods that are counterfeit or not as advertised.

According to BBB’s report, 88% of counterfeit goods come from China and Hong Kong, with their smuggling and their online sale via fraudulent websites widely thought to be coordinated by international organized crime groups.

Customs agents seized $1.2 billion in counterfeit shipments in fiscal 2017, the most current year for which data is available; however, shipping and smuggling methods vary widely, creating major headaches for customs officials.

Inasmuch as counterfeit goods are almost always paid for with a credit card, the fraudulent websites that process these sales make extensive use of the credit card and banking system, with a small number of Chinese banks and an extensive network of intermediary payment processors responsible for the vast majority of processing for these purchases.

Active efforts are being made to fight the flood of counterfeit goods. BBB attempts to identify and report on bogus businesses, especially if they claim to be located in the US and Canada.

Trademark holders also do a great deal of work and spend a considerable amount of money trying to fight counterfeits.

This is a major priority for customs officials and law enforcement as well. US Customs and Border Protection has increased its seizures of counterfeit goods by 125% over the last five years, and the White House recently issued an executive order directing government agencies that work with brands to examine counterfeiting and make it an enforcement priority.

Consumers should check the reputation of the seller before making payment at bbb.org/ct and contact the manufacturer for a listing of authorized sellers.

What to do if you believe you have unwittingly purchased counterfeit goods:

• Ask for a refund. Victims who don’t receive anything when buying online with their credit card, or who receive goods that are counterfeit or not as described, should call the customer service number on the back of their card and request a refund. The report goes into great detail about the process of obtaining a refund and the remedies available to victims.

Report counterfeit goods. Contact one or more of the following:

Stamford Mayor David Martin and State Rep (D-147) Matt Blumenthal at the rally against recent abortion restrictions. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong at Stamford Government Center. “There are forces in Washington and in the White House and in this country – not just in Alabama or Georgia – but yes, here in Connecticut, powerful forces who want to dismantle a system of healthcare for American women and all American families.” May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

On Friday in the throes of rush hour in downtown Stamford about 125 people turned out for a rally in opposition to a series of highly restrictive abortion laws in multiple states aimed at overturning Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide.

Several states have passed anti-abortion legislation this year, including Alabama’s new law mandating a near total ban on abortion, with no exceptions for rape or incest.

Many protesters carried signs featured the image of a wire coat hanger, a symbol of a time when abortion was illegal and desperate women took drastic measures to terminate pregnancies.

Among the mostly crowd on Friday was Julia Dzafic of Stamford, who said, “I don’t want my daughter to live in a world with fewer rights than I have.”

Bella Subramanian and Maya Walker at Stamford Government Center. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich Academy students Maya Walker and Bella Subramanian, both 17, said they are yet to turn voting age, but are passionate.

“It’s so important for people our age to get involved. Though we can’t vote, our voices will change the world later,” Bella said.

“If it’s going to effect anyone, it’ll be us,” Maya said of new laws restricting abortion. “Now is as good a time as ever to start fighting for what we believe in.”

During remarks, Stamford Mayor, Democrat David Martin said, “Here in Stamford, the Planned Parenthood clinic is welcome, and I will do everything in my power to defend that clinic and the rights of people who want to go to that clinic.”

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong said America’s system of healthcare for women is under attack and he is fighting also fighting in defense of Title X, (the US Program for Affordable Birth Control and Reproductive Health Care), which was codified in statute decades ago as the US system of healthcare.

“This is not a principled argument about policy. This isn’t just a debate about abortion. This is a war on American women,” Tong said.

“If I was in Alabama, I’d just say, ‘What is Wrong with you! Do you not see that young woman, and her family, and her life and her future? What is the point of denying her every option afforded to her under the law and in the practice of medicine? Do you not feel for the victims of rape and incest? Do you not see the damage you are doing to their families? That’s what I would say.” – William Tong CT Attorney General

Danielle Eason of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, said the new highly restrictive abortion laws are dangerous, harmful and illegal, and have created a nationwide crisis.

Referring to Alabama’s law banning abortion at just six weeks into a pregnancy, Eason said, “Six weeks is before most women know they are pregnant.”

“Extreme abortion bans go beyond just rhetoric,” Eason continued. “They put lives at risk and will disproportionately impact women with low incomes and those of color.”

She said currently, one in three women of reproductive ages – 25+ million – live in a state where abortion could be outlawed if Roe is overturned.

“People’s health and safety should drive medical decisions, not a politician’s extreme and misogynistic beliefs.” – Danielle Eason, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England

State Rep Matt Blumenthal (D-147) whose district which includes parts of Stamford and New Canaan, said, “You don’t respect women if you deny them the the accurate sex education that they deserve. You don’t respect women if you try to put the law between a woman and her doctor. You don’t respect women if you lie about the medical practices around reproductive health care in order to make a political point. …You don’t respect women if you’re lying to them in their hour of need about their most intimate decision.”

Blumenthal said he was pleased that on Thursday the House passed H.B. 7070, An Act Concerning Deceptive Marketing Practices of Limited Service Pregnancy Centers

“So that no woman goes to get the health care she needs and instead is lied to and deceived out of the healthcare she deserves,” Blumenthal said. “In order to be free and equal people, women need to be able to control their own destinies.”

Caroline Simmons, State Representative in Connecticut representing the 144th District. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

State Rep Caroline Simmons (D-144) whose district is in Stamford, said Alabama’s new law that sends abortion doctors to prison for life with no exception for rape or incest victims is barbaric.

“If a woman is raped and impregnated by that rape, she would have no choice under Alabama law but to deliver that rapist’s baby,” she said. “That is barbaric and sickening and unjust, and is not who we are as a country.”

Donna Moffly, Danielle Eason and Erica Buchsbaum on the way to Stamford Government Center. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Stamford Mayor David Martin said although he has no role in creating legislation, he would do everything possible to support and protect Stamford’s Planned Parenthood location. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

State Senator Alex Bergstein (D-36) whose district covers Greenwich and portions of Stamford and New Canaan. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

State Senator Alex Bergstein who traveled straight from Hartford to Stamford, said the fight for abortion rights is part of an overall fight for women’s rights.

“We are here fighting for justice, fighting for equality, fighting for the freedom to choose how we spend our lives, what we do with our bodies, how we care for families – that is our inalienable right,” she said.

Bergstein said that on Friday at 2:30am and 3:30am in Hartford, two bills were passed to safeguard women’s rights.

“It was not easy,” she said.  “The first was for a $15.00 minimum wage, which followed an 8-hour filibuster by opponents of the bill who had all sorts of anecdotal evidence that apparently people who work at Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts do not want their wages raised.”

Stamford residents Elissa Ranney with Moose, Sarah Swanberg with Sadie and Remy and Julia Dzafic with daughter Amelia and Madison Hughes at Government Center.   May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

“By raising the minimum wage to $15.00, here’s a fact: We will lift 50% of the women in Connecticut living in poverty out of poverty.”

She said at 3:30am, a bill was passed called ‘Time’s Up.’ “It tells anyone who is a victim of sexual assault, ‘We believe you,'” she said.

Bergstein said the minimum wage law and ‘Time’s Up’ law are tied together with reproductive rights.

But, she said, “We are not safe – an 8 hour filibuster of these bills proves that The opponents were glorifying the past, talking about how great our country was 100 years ago, conveniently forgetting that our economy relied on slavery and unpaid labor by every woman in this country.”

Bergstein went on to say the best way to prevent abortion is to promote contraception.

“Contraception everywhere for everyone, and every time. That’s how we prevent abortion. If a state wants to criminalize unwanted pregnancies, they should criminalize the perpetrator. The woman does not impregnate herself. But the best policy of all is to trust women.”

Meghan Holden communications director for the ACLU of Connecticut spoke against the recent restriction on abortion in southern states. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Meghan Holden, communications director for the ACLU of Connecticut, said the abortion bans in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Missouri and Kentucky are all troubling.

“Abortion is health care. Abortion is a moral good. Abortion is a legal right and abortion is a human right. Reproductive freedom means the right to decide about our own futures and our own lives,” Holden said, adding that wherever abortion access is restricted, the people hurt hardest  are people are the vulnerable – people of color, LGBTQ people, people with disabilities, people in rural communities and poor people.

“Our sister ACLU affiliates across the country are standing up against state legislatures to tell them that if they enact unconstitutional and cruel bans on abortion, the ACLU will see them in court,” she said.

Ida Vallo Morris with her daughter, a senior at Stamford High School, Riley Morris, who shared remarks at the rally. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Riley Morris, a senior at Stamford High School, said, “When you walk into a Planned Parenthood, you could be surrounded by people calling you a murderer, a barbarian or a killer,” she said. “You all know about the laws passed in GA, AL and soon Ohio. But why would these laws pass? Seeking abortion was already hard enough, and now women have to face prison time or a baby – or in some cases, in the inevitable case of illegal abortions, death or a baby. Why did the men and women in Alabama pass these laws, may I ask, knowing the outcome –  knowing that women will die because there will be no safe abortions.”

“These men and women who signed the laws want to systematically dismantle the rights of women we were given in Roe V Wade to disenfranchise women who are not white, rich and Christian,” Riley said.

Prabha Balaraman with twin boys Akash and Amad Vishnubhatta at Stamford Government Center. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

The Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with Threads and Treads, announces that registration for the 55th running of the Jim Fixx Greenwich Memorial Day Road Race is now in progress.

This year’s Five Mile Run is scheduled for Monday, May 27, 2019, starting at 8:15am.

There will also be a half-mile run for children through middle school age on the Havemeyer Field Track, behind Greenwich Town Hall, immediately following the five-mile race.

Runners may register on line at www.threadsandtreads.com. Please follow the instructions on the Website. You may also register in person at Threads and Treads, 17 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 during normal business hours. Information flyers may also be obtained at Greenwich Town Hall, Eastern Greenwich Civic Center and Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center.

Registration will also be available the morning of the race at the Greenwich Senior Center, 299 Greenwich Avenue from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. only for an increased fee of $40.00 for the Five Mile Race or $20.00 for the children’s run. Exact change or check payable to “M.D.R.R.C.” will be the only payment accepted on Race Day.

This challenging run continues to be one of the more popular races in the area. The beautiful course starts at 239 Greenwich Avenue, includes central Greenwich and Bruce Park and concludes on the Havemeyer Field Track.

The run is the second leg of the Hospital for Special Surgery Greenwich Cup 2019 Series Presented by William Raveis. The Jim Fixx Race is co-sponsored by The Greenwich Old Timers Athletic Association and J.J. Cassone Bakery. Other sponsors of the Greenwich Cup 2019 Series include Dental Oral Surgery, Stretch Lab and Threads and Treads.

Commemorative T-shirts are provided to the first 300 entrants and Awards will be presented overall male and female champions and medals will be awarded to the top finishers in a variety of age categories. Medals will also be presented to all participants in the kid’s run, with trophies given to top finishers in two boy’s and two girl’s age categories.

Other race features include three on-course water stations and post-race refreshments.

For more information on the Race please call Threads & Treads at 203-661-0142 or the Recreation Office at 203-618-7649.

You can find information about other Greenwich Parks and Recreation programs at www.greenwichct.gov.

The case of a horrific home invasion that took place in 2007 in South Kent, CT, culminated in the sentencing on Wednesday of a Romanian national, Emmanuel Nicolscu, 32, to 121 months of imprisonment.

Shortly before midnight on April 15, 2007, three men – Alexandru Nicolescu and Emanuel Nicolescu, who are not related, and another individual – wearing masks and brandishing knives and firearms, entered the home noted philanthropist Anne Hendricks Bass in South Kent.

Mr. Nicolescu became he target of an FBI investigation after he tied up Ms. Bass and her boyfriend, injected them with a supposedly deadly virus and demanded $8.5 million for the “antidote.”

According to a release from the US Dept of Justice, John H. Durham, US Attorney for the District of Connecticut, the intruders bound and blindfolded two adult victims and injected each with a substance the intruders claimed was a deadly virus.  The intruders ordered the victims to pay $8.5 million or else they would be left to die from the lethal injection.

“When it became clear that the victims were not in position to meet the intruders’ demands, the intruders drugged the two residents with a sleeping aid and fled in the homeowner’s Jeep Cherokee,” the release said.

The remainder of the release is as follows:

The stolen Jeep Cherokee was abandoned the next morning at a Home Depot in New Rochelle, New York.  A few days later, on April 21, 2007, an accordion case washed ashore in Jamaica Bay.  The content of the case included a stun gun, a 12-inch knife, a black plastic Airsoft gun, a crowbar, syringes, sleeping pills, latex gloves, and a laminated telephone card with the South Kent address of the victims.

In 2010, a newly assigned investigator from the Connecticut State Police made the connection that matched a partial Pennsylvania license plate, seen by a witness near the victims’ estate on the night of the crime, to a car owned by Michael N. Kennedy, and made a further connection that Kennedy had formerly shared an address with Emmanuel Nicolescu, who had been employed by the victim.  The investigator then discovered that the data for the cell tower nearby the New Rochelle Home Depot contained a call by a phone number registered to Emmanuel Nicolescu, minutes after the Jeep was abandoned.  Shortly after that, investigators from the State Police and FBI gathered Emanuel Nicolescu’s DNA and found that it partially matched a sample from the Jeep’s steering wheel.

As to the accordion case, investigators learned that Kennedy’s father was a professional accordion player, and witnesses later identified the knife in the accordion case as a gift given to Emanuel Nicolescu by his father-in-law.

The investigation revealed that Emanuel Nicolescu and Kennedy worked Alexandru Nicolescu and, as alleged, Stefan Alexandru Barabas, to commit the crime.  The four men planned the home invasion, which included the research and purchase of implements necessary for the crime, such as two-way radios, stun guns and imitation pistols.  On the night of April 15, 2007, Kennedy drove Emanuel Nicolescu, Alexandru Nicolescu and Barabas to a location in the vicinity of the South Kent home, and then picked them up the following morning in New Rochelle at the location where the intruders abandoned the stolen Jeep.

Alexandru Nicolescu fled the US on April 16, 2007.  He has been detained since November 14, 2013, when he was arrested in the United Kingdom where he was residing.  He unsuccessfully contested his extradition and, on November 25, 2014, was transported to the U.S.  On January 8, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of attempted extortion and one count of conspiracy to commit extortion.

Emanuel Nicolescu was arrested in Illinois on January 23, 2011.  On March 22, 2012, a jury in New Haven found him guilty of attempted extortion, conspiracy to commit extortion, and possession of a stolen vehicle.  On August 17, 2012, he was sentenced to 240 months of imprisonment.

Kennedy, also known as Nicolae Helerea, a citizen of Romania, voluntarily returned to the U.S. from Romania and, on November 5, 2012, pleaded guilty to one count of attempted extortion and one count of conspiracy to commit extortion.  On May 4, 2016, he was sentenced to 48 months of imprisonment.

Stefan Barabas has been charged in connection with this case and is currently being sought.  The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to his arrest.  (https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/additional/stefan-alexandru-barabas)

As to Barabas, U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Connecticut State Police and New York City Police Department.  U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the United Kingdom’s Metropolitan Police for their assistance in this case.

This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Novick.

Exterior with heated pool at 4 Laurel Lane Spur

4 Laurel Lane Spur
Greenwich, CT 06830

Improved Price: $2,799,000
GreenwichMLS #105275

5 Bedrooms
4 Full Baths
Single Family
Built in 1972; Renovated in 2018

Listed by: Katherine Donnelly
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Tel. (203) 536-3267
Email: Katherine@kdonnellyrealty.com

This mid-country Georgian Colonial offers sophisticated luxury, with rooms washed in sunlight. There are five bedrooms, four baths, and two powder rooms. There are also two fireplaces and a four car attached garage.

The home has a brick exterior and a wood shingle roof, and is located on a serene cul-de-sac. The 3.42 acre setting allows for quiet enjoyment of nature.

Located south of the Merritt Parkway, Laurel Lane Spur is just minutes from downtown Greenwich, the commuter train, I95 and shopping.

Step inside the double height grand foyer and take in the quality and character that are evident in every interior detail.

There are high ceilings and hand carved moldings, custom walnut inlaid floors, custom built-ins and a back staircase. There is a lot to love in this 7,918 square foot home. All square footage is above ground.

There is a professional grade kitchen with butler’s pantry, walk-in pantry, and a laundry room with a sink. The kitchen features a Viking double oven with a warming drawer and two Bosch dishwashers.

The grand sized rooms feature oversized windows in rooms including a floor to ceiling bow window with built-in corner cabinets in the dining room.

The luxurious master suite is situated on the first floor and has an adjoining expansive spa with custom built-ins, soaking tub, full shower with bench, double vanity, make-up area and water closet.

There is an elegant recessed staircase to the second level with four double bedrooms, two full baths, and plenty of walk-in closets, as well as double and single closets. The second level foyer also has an oversized storage closet as well as two full walk-in attics to round out the abundant storage.

The fully finished “walk-out” lower level has the same quality finishes as the first floor public rooms. You will be pleased with the lower level second family room with fireplace, game room, gym, office, bonus room and custom bar with counter.

This home has plenty to celebrate with both indoor and exterior areas including an Ipe deck off the kitchen and a blue stone terrace directly off the lower level via three sliding glass doors.

Greenwich offers low real estate taxes, and is known as a safe place to live. The Town offers an ideal lifestyle that make many happy to call this 50 square mile community their home.

This home is districted for North Street Elementary School, Central Middle School and Greenwich High School. There are also several private schools to choose from.

There are a number of public and private country clubs with golf courses, yacht clubs, equestrian trails, four public libraries, beaches including Greenwich Point, and of course the wonderful Bruce Museum with its new playground. There are abundant public tennis courts and ballfields which offer hours of enjoyment to our residents.

Double height Grand Foyer at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Full finished lower level with a 2nd family room at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Professional kitchen with oversized windows and built-ins at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Dining Room at at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Dining Room at at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Living room at at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Master Bedroom with Cove Lighting at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Master spa at 4 Laurel Lane Spur in Greenwich.

Katherine Donnelly is a Global Luxury Specialist at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and has been serving the Greenwich real estate market since 2004, winning various awards including membership in Coldwell Banker’s International Presidents Circle as she was ranked within the top 6% of all sales agents.

As a long time Greenwich resident, she loves to share her market knowledge and the amenities of this special community with others so that they may also experience a wonderful lifestyle.

Katherine may be reached with questions or to schedule a private tour at (203) 536-3267 or Katherine@kdonnellyrealty.com

Up to the minute Greenwich Property Transfers, May 15, 2019 transcribed from the Assessor’s office at Greenwich Town Hall

9 Wyndover Ln

9 Wyndover Ln from 9 Wyndover Lane, LLC to Guzman Santiago on May 15, 2019 for $1,430,000

7 Cottontail Rd

7 Cottontail Rd from Edward and Joanne Mortimer to Matthew Watson on May 15, 2019 for $1,005,000

150 Prospect Street Unit 16 from Rodion Davidov to Gregory Masone on May 15, 2019 for $590,000

0 Creamer Hill Rd from Philip and Patricia Laskawy to The Nomie Trust on May 15, 2019 for $478,590.31

9 Creamer Hill Rd

9 Creamer Hill Rd

9 Creamer Hill Rd from Philip and Patricia Laskawy Trustees to The Nomie Trust on May 15, 2019 for $4,315,878.75

15 Old Orchard Rd

15 Old Orchard Rd from Kenneth and Pamela Corriveau to Clinton Chang on May 15, 2019 for $1,935,000

417 West Lyon Farm Drive

417 West Lyon Farm Drive from Stephen Langan Trustee and John Moore Trustee to Nina King on May 15, 2019 for $1,250,000

See also:

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, May 9 to 14, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, May 2-8, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, May 1-2, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 30 – May 1, 2019

Up to the Minute Greenwich Property Transfers, April 24-29, 2019

Back Country Real Estate Talk Packs Round Hill Community Center

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

Town Homes in Downtown Are Bright Spot in Greenwich Real Estate

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

Jack Feda a senior captain of the Greenwich Cardinals football team worked with younger players during the Champions Youth Clinic organized with the GYFL at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich Cardinals football team members worked with younger players during a clinic organized for the GYFL at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

On Sunday the weather cooperated perfectly for the Cardinals “Champions Football Clinic” for GYFL players, where dozens of boys and girls did drills with the Greenwich High School players and their coaches.

The clinic was followed by a ring ceremony for the Cardinals.

The GYFL players, in their red “Be The Future” t-shirts, looked on as each player was presented his ring by head Coach John Marinelli in the field house. WGCH’s Rob Adams emceed the event. After each player received his ring, he was congratulated by a throng of coaches.

Registration is currently open for GYFL’s 2019 season. The league, a non profit youth football organization for boys and girls in grades 3 through 8, has three divisions: the Bantam League is for 8- and 9-year old’s. Juniors are 10-11. Seniors start at age 12.

GYFL has over 90 volunteer coaches who offer lessons in sportsmanship, and players enjoy the sense of camaraderie and source of lifelong friendships.

Following the clinic on the turf field at the Boys & Girls Club the Cardinals head coach presented rings during a ceremony in side the field house, a new tradition for the team. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich Cardinals football team members worked with younger players during the Champions Youth Clinic organized with the GYFL at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

The idea for the clinic and ring ceremony, a new tradition for the Cardinals, came from head coach Marinelli. About 50 young players participated in the event, where they could see the camaraderie and skills of the older players, many of whom will head to college in August, and imagine themselves in their position.

Gavin Muir, a senior captain who is headed to Dartmouth in the fall, Mozi Bici who is headed for a PG year at Suffield Academy and Christopher Wint who is headed to Castleton University in Vermont said they came up through the ranks of GYFL themselves.

“We all played for the BANC Raiders,” Gavin said. “It was a great experience as team mates and a great experience on the field.”

“It really started a mentality to aim for state championships,” Mozi said.

Andrea and Matt Falco brought their son James and daughter Emi to the event after James, a third grader, learned registration had opened.

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“James has Autism. He joined last year and had a great time,” Andrea said, adding that James’ younger sister Emi may join the league or cheer for GYCL. “Last year she would make friends on the sidelines at his games and practices. She may have had more fun than he did.”

“On May 1, he wore his jersey to school,” she said, a reference to the first day of registration.

“There was a sign up by North Mianus School saying registration was open and he said, ‘We got to start jogging, mom.'”

“Emi said I want to go too,” Andrea recalled.

A popular presences at the event was the Joey B’s Food Truck. Joey B’s owner Dom Delfino has hosted the football team for fundraisers in his restaurant where players’ favorites include the Texas burger, mac ‘n cheese bites and breakfasts of pancakes, french toast and bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwiches.

To register your child for GYFL’s 2019 season, click here. The season opens on Aug 19, 2019. The last game of the season, championship day, is Nov 10, 2019. (Columbus Day weekend is a bye weekend with no games.)

Vincent Pastore and Christine Kraninger at the GYFL clinic at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich Cardinals football team members worked with younger players during a clinic organized with the GYFL at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich Cardinals football team members worked with younger players during a clinic organized with the GYFL at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich Cardinals football team members worked with younger players during a clinic organized with the GYFL at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Greenwich Cardinals football team members worked with younger players during the Champions Youth Clinic organized with the GYFL at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Participants received “Be The Future” t-shirts at the GYFL-Cardinals football clinic at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Mozi Bici, Gavin Muir and Christopher Wint, Cardinals Football players at the GYFL clinic. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Evan Beilenson, Jack Murphy and Cooper Kitselman at the GYFL clinic at the Boys & Girls Club. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

James and Emi Falco worked with Greenwich Cardinals football team members during a clinic at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

GYFL players who may some day fill the roster of the Cardinals football team, watched a highlights reel at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Lorenzo Delino and his father Dom Delfino took orders in their Joey B’s Food Truck at the Boys & Girls Club. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Paul works the grill inside the Joey B’s Food Truck at the GYFL/Cardinals Football event at the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Following the clinic on the turf field at the Boys & Girls Club the Cardinals head coach presented Tysen Comizio with his ring during a ceremony in side the field house, a new tradition for the team. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Senior Captain Lance Large at the ring ceremony in side the Boys & Girls Club field house. May 19, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

At Stamford Government Center, State Senator Alex Bergstein speaking at a rally against the highly restrictive abortion laws. May 17, 2019 Photo: Leslie Yager

Over the weekend social media was abuzz about an announcement from State Senator Alex Bergstein (D-36) that she is in a relationship with former colleague Nichola Samponaro.

Her post on Facebook garnered dozens of comments of support and messages of congratulations.

Bergstein, reached by email on Sunday for comment said, “I said all I wanted to say about my personal life on my post yesterday. I’m focused on my work and never wanted any coverage of my personal life to begin with.”

Posted with the hashtags #loveislove and #ourloveandpurpose, Bergstein wrote her announcement in the context of the US House of Representatives having passed the #EqualityAct, which would extend Civil Rights protections to #LGBTQ citizens.

“Sadly, this bill is unlikely to become law with Trump/McConnell in power,” she wrote on Saturday. Still, she said she was proud to live in Connecticut, which she described as a state that values equality and acceptance.

Bergstein, who joined local officials including Attorney General William Tong, State Rep Caroline Simmons  (D-144) and Matt Blumenthal (D-147) and Stamford Mayor David Martin on Friday outside Stamford Government Center, spoke about women’s rights during a rally against several highly restrictive abortion laws passed mostly in southern states.

Bergstein who traveled straight from Hartford to Stamford on Friday, said the fight for abortion rights is part of an overall fight for women’s rights.

“We are here fighting for justice, fighting for equality, fighting for the freedom to choose how we spend our lives, what we do with our bodies, how we care for families – that is our inalienable right,” she said.

Bergstein said that on Friday at 2:30am and 3:30am that morning in Hartford, two bills were passed to safeguard women’s rights.

“It was not easy,” she said. “The first was for a $15.00 minimum wage, which followed an 8-hour filibuster by opponents of the bill who had all sorts of anecdotal evidence that apparently people who work at Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts do not want their wages raised.”

“By raising the minimum wage to $15.00, here’s a fact: We will lift 50% of the women in Connecticut living in poverty out of poverty.”

She said at 3:30am, a bill was passed called ‘Time’s Up.’ “It tells anyone who is a victim of sexual assault, ‘We believe you,’” she said.

Bergstein said the minimum wage law and ‘Time’s Up’ law are tied together with reproductive rights.

But, she said, “We are not safe – an 8 hour filibuster of these bills proves that The opponents were glorifying the past, talking about how great our country was 100 years ago, conveniently forgetting that our economy relied on slavery and unpaid labor by every woman in this country.”

Bergstein went on to say the best way to prevent abortion is to promote contraception.

“Contraception everywhere for everyone, and every time. That’s how we prevent abortion. If a state wants to criminalize unwanted pregnancies, they should criminalize the perpetrator. The woman does not impregnate herself. But the best policy of all is to trust women.”

On Saturday, in her social media post about her current relationship, Bergstein explained, “Long after my marriage had ended emotionally and physically, I made the decision to end it legally. Once I was free and empowered, I was able to see other paths to happiness.”

Bergstein, who is is divorcing her husband, Seth whom she married in May 1995, referred to her partner as Nichola, a reference to Ms. Samponaro, whose LinkedIn profile said she is a real estate salesperson and was Co-Campaign Manager, Field Director, Data Director for Bergstein’s State Senate campaign from Aug 2018 to Nov 2018.

“Nichola I worked together on my campaign and after the Election she stayed on as a personal assistant,” Bergstein wrote on Saturday. “Like many others, we fell in love through our work and then ended our professional relationship. She shares my passion for making positive change and continues to support me as my partner. Anyone who suggests there’s something inappropriate about our relationship is close-minded and wrong. There’s no scandal here.”

Bergstein who graduated in 1988 from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT and then earned a law degree from the University of Chicago, defeated five-term incumbent Republican Scott Frantz in November 2018 a little more than 600 votes, in a night that also ended in the defeat of Republican Mike Bocchino for State Rep by Democrat Steve Meskers in District 150.

In October a group of Greenwich residents wrote a letter published in the Greenwich Free Press calling Frantz’s voting record on LGBTQ rights “shameful and hurtful,” including in 2011, opposing a bill protecting transgender people from discrimination in housing, employment, securing a loan, education, and voting against the appointment of a gay judge, Andrew McDonald to Supreme Court Chief Justice.

This spring Bergstein gave a TEDx talk at Wesleyan University, where according to the Wesleyan Argus, she talked about being shaped by patriarchal values and making a conscious decision to live fearlessly when she turned 50.

“I have never felt more alive and fulfilled, and I didn’t even know it was possible. …And the more I put myself out there, the more love and purpose I got back. And all those layers of conditioning telling me who I should be and what I should want melted away. I was breaking the bonds of patriarchy and privilege and anything else that told me I was not enough,” she is quoted as saying in Wesleyan Argus.

Joseph Massi Jr., a White Plains resident and native of Greenwich, passed away May 18, 2019, at age 73.

He was born November 27, 1945, to Joseph Sr and Mary (nee Roina) Massi. He worked for many years as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service in Cos Cob.

Joseph is remembered fondly in many ways, among them, traveling to Mohegan Sun, beach time with friends, playing softball in his early years, but most of all, for his overwhelming love of his grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen (nee Tiriolo), cherished children, Joseph Massi III (Kim), Vanessa Massi and step daughter, Michelle Tighe (Patrick) and loving grandchildren, Julia, Patrick Jr, Caroline, J.J., Alexis, Liz and Jayleigh. He is also survived by his dear brother, Rick Massi (Judy) and many nieces and nephews.

To honor Joseph’s life, family and friends will gather on Tuesday 4:00pm-8:00pm at Coxe &  Graziano Funeral Home located at 134 Hamilton Ave Greenwich.

Funeral Mass Wednesday 11:00am at Our Lady of Sorrows in White Plains. Committal will be private.

Memorial donations can be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org For more information or to place an online condolence, www.coxeandgraziano.com