POLICE AND FIRE
Police Raise $5K for Special Olympics
The New Canaan Police Department received a plaque from Special Olympics Connecticut for raising over $5,000 for the 2024 Law Enforcement Torch Run. Funds were raised through community-supported events like Tip-A-Cop, Penguin Plunge, and the Torch Run. The department hopes for continued support in future efforts. Photo credit: New Canaan Police Department.
School Resource Officer Appreciation Day
On February 15th, National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day, New Canaan recognized five police officers for their work in public schools. Officers Deak, Bentley, Gibson, Blank, and Vartuli provide security and build connections with students. Their daily efforts support both safety and community relationships. Photo credit: New Canaan Police Department.
Essential Tips for CO Safety
Carbon monoxide (CO) safety is essential for every household. CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced by fuel-burning appliances when not properly vented. Simple safety steps, such as installing CO alarms, using generators outdoors, and keeping vents clear, can help prevent exposure. Taking these precautions ensures a safer home environment.
TOWN HALL
Playground Upgrades to Come
After three kindergarten students broke their arms on East Elementary School’s playground this year, the district allocated $250,000 for a rubberized surface and an ADA-compliant structure. The updates align with upcoming state regulations requiring rubber surfaces for playgrounds built after July 1st, 2025. The project is included in the district’s proposed budget.
New Canaan Mounted Troop Appoints New Horsemanship Director
New Canaan Mounted Troop has named Hannah Wirfel Jones as its new Horsemanship Director, bringing her extensive equestrian experience to the leadership team. Jones, a longtime NCMT instructor, has been instrumental in expanding the organization’s riding programs since joining in 2011. A nationally ranked junior rider and USHJA Certified Trainer, she looks forward to continuing to mentor young equestrians and develop NCMT’s horsemanship programs.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Artist Aids Ukraine
Westport-based artist Mark Yurkiw addressed the Rotary Club about his efforts delivering medical and essential supplies to Ukraine since 2022. He discussed his travels through the country and interactions with soldiers and civilians facing daily risks. His work is funded by Ridgefield Responds, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Photo credit: New Canaan Rotary Club.
The Inn Residents Create Art
Residents of The Inn are participating in weekly studio art lessons led by Therapeutic Recreation leader John. The sessions cover a range of artistic mediums, including watercolors, oils, and pastels. Photo: Waveny LifeCare.
Girl Scouts Share Valentine’s Cheer
On February 14th, Girl Scouts visited The Inn and distributed Valentine’s Day cards to residents. Photo credit: Waveny LifeCare Network.
SCHOOLS
NCPS Students Deliver Latest School News
Last week, New Canaan High School student anchors delivered the latest school news, covering topics such as upcoming club registration, the senior internship program, and the girls track team’s recent FCIAC championship victory. Production crews handled technical aspects of the broadcast. The next episode will be on the @nctv78 YouTube channel. Photo credit: New Canaan Public Schools.
SLS CARE Club
On February 14th, St. Luke’s School CARE Club students held a campus-wide Valentine’s Day sale to raise funds for Circle of Care, a nonprofit supporting families of children with cancer. The club also provides food, clothing, and educational resources to children in Fairfield County. Photo credit: St. Luke’s School.
NCPS Students Share Music and Valentines
New Canaan Public School students performed Wagon Wheel and distributed handmade Valentine’s cards to residents of Waveny Care on Valentine’s Day. The event aimed to connect students with community members and promote social interaction. Photo credit: New Canaan Public Schools.
NCCS Students Donate Canned Goods
On February 14th, New Canaan Country School’s Upper School Service Club delivered canned food donations to Person-to-Person CT. The food drive was part of the school’s annual Souper Bowl, which combines community service with competition. The event supports local food assistance efforts. Photo credit: New Canaan Country School.
SLS Seniors Art Featured
The St. Luke’s School Art Department announced that seven senior artists are featured in the Katonah Museum of Art’s “Young Artists 2025” exhibition, running from February 12 to March 2. Georgia Bennett, Ainsley Birmingham, Kate Edwards, Maggie Lange, Emma Sherter, Sarah Steele, and Maddie Winarsky are showcasing their work. An artist reception is scheduled for March 1st, from 2 to 5 pm. Photo credit: St. Luke’s School.
SLS Earns National Recognition
The National Council of Teachers of English awarded the “REALM Distinguished” rank to the 2024 edition of The Pendulum, St. Luke’s Upper School literary and arts magazine. Editors Birch Howe ’25 and Jackie Cecil ’24, with faculty advisors Jeorge Yankura and Ashley Gangi-Petit, led the publication. The 2024 issue focuses on the theme “Apocalypse,” covering division, conflict, decay, and renewal. Photo credit: St. Luke’s School.
OUR NEIGHBORS
I-95 Busiest Commute
Interstate 95 southbound through Stamford is now the busiest interstate corridor in the U.S., with drivers losing about 150 hours annually due to congestion, according to INRIX’s 2024 report. The Connecticut Department of Transportation plans to add auxiliary lanes between Exits 6 and 7 by year’s end and is conducting long-term studies for further improvements.
Rescued Seal Pup
A gray seal pup found on Chapel Street in New Haven is recovering at Mystic Aquarium after being rescued by aquarium staff and state officials. The underweight and dehydrated seal is on a specialized treatment plan and receiving a diluted fish formula. Officials plan to release the seal back into the wild once it recovers.
